bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Diversity of Trichoderma and Hypocrea lixii Iraqi Strains by Using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) Technique
Authors: Handel Israa Malallah
Published: April 2023

As the diversity and characteristics of Trichoderma species are difficult to determine using morphological methods, henceforth molecular tools are crucial. This study utilized random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique to investigate the genetic diversity of Trichoderma with sexual phase Hypocrea and to identify similarities and differences in the phylogenetic tree. Nine Iraqi Trichoderma strains (four strains of T. atroviride, one strain of Hypocrea lixii, two strains of T. gamsii and two strains of T. longibriantium) were examined in this research. The genomic DNA of each species was extracted and amplified with each of the five primers. 197 bands were obtained by using five oligodeoxynucleotide primers of which 98.47% were polymorphic and about 1.52% were monomorphic. When primers OPA4, OPA8, and OPA10 were used, the genetic variability was about 100%. Whereas, after using primers OPA7 and OPA5, the obtained genetic variability was 95.7% and 92.6% respectively. Gel images of the RAPD were processed with photo-cap program which detected the bands of isolates based on the ladder. The detected bands were then clustered based on the Jaccard method in Past software that showed T. atroviride, T. gamsii, Hypocrea lixii, and T. longibrachiatum isolates were grouped as clades and lineages. Although all strains belonged to the same species and group in one clade, they differed in size and number of bands. The Jaccard cluster analysis showed that the three isolates of T. atroviride were closely related to each other, while the four isolates of T. atroviride in one cluster were same as Hypocrea lixii, the isolates of T. gamsii and two strains of T. longibrachiatum formed one cluster. Thus, the high reliability of RAPD markers could be applied to identify Trichoderma species and create genetic maps instead of other DNA-based methods which are not only costly but time-consuming too.
Free Verdict Against Executors of Illegal Fees as Corruption Crimes
Authors: Sani Agnesia Mutiara , Shafira Maya , Fardiansyah Ahmad Irzal
Published: April 2023

Illegal levies are the designation of all forms of levies that are unofficial, which have no legal basis, so the act of levies is referred to as illegal levies. One of the criminal acts of corruption that occurs in people's lives is illegal fees. An example of a criminal case of illegal fees is the case in Decision Number: 46/Pid.Sus-TPK/2018/PN.Tjk in that case the defendant  was acquitted. Judging from the judge's decision that acquitted the defendant, the authors conducted research on the identification of illegal fees as a criminal act of corruption and what was the basis for the considerations of the Panel of Judges in passing an acquittal in cases of criminal acts of corruption based on Decision Number: 46/Pid.Sus-TPK/2018/ PN. Tjk. The problem with this research is the identification of extortion as a criminal act of corruption. and what are the basic considerations of the Panel of Judges in passing an acquittal in a corruption case based on Decision Number: 46/ Pid.Sus -TPK/2018/PN. Tjk
The research method used is normative juridical research method, sources of primary and secondary legal materials. From this study it can be concluded that illegal fees can be categorized as a criminal act of corruption, this action is regulated in Article 12 letter e of Law Number 31 of 1999 which has been amended and added to Law Number 20 of 2001 concerning Eradication of Corruption Crimes. That the basis for the judge's considerations in deciding that the corruption case was free of Decision Number: 46/Pid.Sus-TPK/2018/PN.Tjk Defendant did not meet the elements of "benefiting oneself or others" and the element of "receiving gifts or promises" as charged in the Alternative indictment by the Public Prosecutor, so that the defendant is not legally and convincingly proven guilty of committing a criminal act of corruption.
Perspectives of Healthcare Professionals Regarding Dignity and End-of-Life Care for the Elderly: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Yeow Hung Ho , Azman Azlinda Binti , Singh Paramjit Jamir
Published: April 2023

Dignity is key in the management of older patients as they approach the terminal phase of their lives. Thus, an in-depth investigation of healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) viewpoints on this subject is pertinent. This study aims to systematically review the perspectives of HCPs regarding dignity and end-of-life care for elderly patients. Utilising the PRISMA guideline, 23 articles were included in the systematic literature review following a comprehensive literature search of three electronic databases: MEDLINE, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Five broad themes emerged from the analysed articles and were summarised as the main findings: HCPs’ understanding of dignity and patient needs, holistic patient‐centred care, family support, coordination of healthcare systems, and uncertainty at the end of life and factors affecting advanced care planning. Overall, HCPs agree on various critical aspects of treatment in end-of-life care for older patients, especially relating to respect for patient autonomy, holistic and patient-centred care, and the family’s role. Accumulated evidence suggests substantial progress in providing patient-centred care and recognising the family’s role in dignified care for older patients. Nevertheless, more improvement is needed in the area of coordinating healthcare systems, uncertainty about disease prognosis, advanced care planning, and communicating effectively regarding the goals of care and limitations of treatment options.
Effect of new Maternal and Child Health Book on Iron Supplementation Obedience and Labour Outcome in Pregnant Women, Pringsewu District, Lampung Province, Indonesia
Authors: Sulistianingsih Apri , Gusti Pramita Aswitami Ni , Saputri Nurwinda , Iin Rumintang Baiq , Halimatusyaadiah Siti , Sundayani Lina , Septiasari Yeti , Amsiah Nur
Published: April 2023

The 2020 edition of the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) book can facilitate pregnant women in monitoring supplementation obedience and labour outcome. There are still few studies that discuss the effectiveness of the MCH book with regard to labour outcomes. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the new edition MCH book on obedience to iron supplementation and labour outcomes. The study used a quasi-experimental, non-equivalent control group design. The subjects were pregnant women in the second trimester until labour. The sample of this study comprised 60 people in the intervention group and 61 people in the control group. Research analysis was done using T-test and chi-square tests. The results showed that supplementation obedience increased haemoglobin levels, affected duration of labour in the first and second stages and the amount of blood loss during labour, and the APGAR scores were significantly different in the two groups (p-value >0.05). However, the intake of protein and iron-rich food, placental membrane integrity, duration of the third stage of labour, uterine contractions, APGAR score in the first five minutes, and birth weight did not show a significant difference in the two groups (p-value >0.05). The study concluded that the self-monitoring sheet for iron supplementation in the MCH book could improve obedience and haemoglobin, and thus improve labour outcomes, but it does not increase maternal food intake.
The clinical approach to botulinum toxin in dermatology: A literature review
Authors: Abbas Rabab Hunaid , Koshy Rowyna Reji , Fathima Yusra , Weerasekara Ranasinghe Arachchige Dona Kashmira , Sherin Ziya , Selvakumar Niveditha , Korrapati Naga Harika
Published: April 2023

Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a neurotoxin drug that is used in a wide range of cosmetic and treatment applications. This literature review provides an overview of the toxin mechanism and its effects. The popularity of toxin usage has been tremendously increasing since it is a minimally invasive procedure. Application of the toxin is primarily utilized for cosmetic purposes, to treat disorders, and as a surgery alternative. The toxin myths such as frozen face have been elaborated, as it is critical to understand the outcomes of the procedure. The toxin is generally considered to be safe, but complications can occur as well, ranging from reactions due to injections to the undesired effects produced by this toxin. Preventive strategies, such as appropriate toxin application techniques, must be considered for safety and prevention. The contraindications to the use of the toxin are also noted in the study.
Disseminated Tuberculosis with Poncet’s Disease Masquerading as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – A Case Report
Authors: R Anish , Mishra Gyanshankar , Munje Radha , Gour Sanjay
Published: April 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) rheumatism (Poncet’s disease) is defined as a polyarthritis associated with extrapulmonary TB in which there is no evidence of bacteriological involvement of the joints. We report a case of 21-year-old female whose initial clinical and laboratory investigations were suggestive of inflammatory arthropathy. The case was complicated by weak anti-nuclear antibody positivity of anti-proliferating cell nuclear antigen (+) antibodies, suggestive of systemic lupus erythematosus. However, after clinical examination and investigations, the patient was diagnosed as a case of disseminated TB with Poncet’s disease. The patient was started on anti-tubercular treatment and showed improvement at the end of 1st month of treatment. The case highlights that Poncet’s disease should be considered as one of the differentials while dealing with cases of unexplained or prolonged arthralgia.
Fenêtre et soupirail dans L’Occupation des sols de Jean Echenoz : un trompe-l’œil troué par la perspective
Authors: Delcour Manon
Published: April 2023

Cet article se propose d’analyser la nouvelle L’Occupation des sols de Jean Echenoz à l’aune du dispositif perspectif tel qu’il a été décrit, notamment, par Hubert Damisch dans L’Origine de la perspective, afin de montrer comment Echenoz interroge l’illusion contemporaine de l’omniscience de l’œil en recourant précisément à des motifs qui rappellent, détournent ou redoublent le dispositif perspectif, historiquement lié à l’émergence du sujet géométral et au pouvoir de l’œil humain sur l’espace perçu et représenté. Nous entendons dégager le rôle cardinal que l’auteur accorde, ce faisant, à l’environnement urbain. Convoquer la perspectiva artificialis nous donnera aussi l’occasion d’approcher le travail sur le réalisme, la vraisemblance et l’artifice auquel se livre Echenoz.
Paragraph shrinking as a strategy to improve reading comprehension
Authors: Aziz Zulfadli Abdul , Gani Sofyan Abdul , Zora Zurina
Published: April 2023

This research was carried out to discover the effectiveness of using the paragraph shrinking strategy in improving students' reading comprehension, specifically in understanding general information, detailed information, reference, and vocabulary. The method of this was quasi-experimental design research. The population of this research was 224 students in the first grade of a junior high school. The results showed that students' average scores on general information increased from 410 in the pretest to 565 in the posttest. Likewise, their score of detailed information increased from 430 in the pretest became 605 in the posttest. Then, the students’ reference average score increased from 590 in the pretest become 610 in the posttest. Last, their vocabulary average score increased from 600 in the pretest to 630 in the posttest. Based on the results of the t-test, the df value was 29, and the deT value was 16.370. Based on the SPSS output of the table, the Sig. (2-tailed) had a p-value = 0.00, meaning that the p-value was <0.05. The researchers found that the null hypothesis (H0) was rejected. In conclusion, there is a significant improvement in students' reading comprehension after learning using the paragraph shrinking strategy.
2,3,5,4-Tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-Β-D-Glucoside Inhibiting Hepatocytes Injury Through Reducing the Expression of Tumor Necrosis Factor-a in LPSStimulated Kupffer Cells via Regulating PPAR-γ/NFκB
Authors:   School of Public Health, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China, D Wei , R Jin ,   School of Public Health, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China, H Zhao ,   School of Public Health, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China, Q Li ,   School of Public Health, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
Published: April 2023

2,3,5,4'-Tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-Β-D-Glucoside (TSG), a main bioactive component of polygonum multiflorum Thumb, exerts anti-oxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory effects. However, the protective effects of TSG on hepatocytes through anti-inflammatory effects have rarely been investigated. Mouse liver macrophages (Kupffer cells, KUP5 cells) were primed with various concentrations of TSG before Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment, and AML12 hepatocytes were cultured with the supernatants of KUP5 cells. The results showed that TSG inhibits the expression of iNOS in KUP5 cells. Meanwhile, Tumor Necrosis Factor-a (TNF-a) and interleukin-1Β (IL-1Β) expression in KUP5 cells were reversed after TSG treatment. Additionally, the expression of Peroxisome Proliferators-Activated Receptors-γ (PPAR-γ) was up-regulated while the phosphorylation of p65 and IκB-a were decreased in KUP5 cells after TSG treatment. Furthermore, GW9662 (PPAR-γ antagonist) treatment could eliminate the anti-inflammatory effects of TSG. In AML12 hepatocytes, the level of AST, ALT, and apoptosis was decreased after being cultured with the supernatants of KUP5 cells pretreated with TSG. Moreover, TNF-a neutralization of KUP5 cells supernatants could decrease the level of AST, ALT, and AML12 hepatocyte apoptosis. These results indicate that TSG activates PPAR-γ, thereby decreasing nuclear factor kappa-B (NFκB) activation and reducing the release of TNF-a in macrophages to protect hepatocytes from injury. Our study may help further understand the protective effects of TSG on hepatocytes by suppressing liver inflammation.
Does Alcohol Affect Gastrointestinal Cancer Risk: A Review Updating the Briefings of Related Factors?
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Metro College of Health Sciences and Research, Greater Noida, India, K Niharika , S Singh ,   Department of Pharmacy, IEC Group of Institutions, Greater Noida, India, P Kumar ,   Department of Pharmacy, IFTM University, Moradabad, India
Published: April 2023

Alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor for gastrointestinal cancers that may be controlled. The risk of cancer increases with the amount and duration of drinking. Even occasional drinking can raise cancer risk; 100 g or less per week is presently thought to be the upper limit for low-risk consumption. Alcohol is causally linked to colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer, oesophageal squamous cell cancer, and most likely also pancreatic cancer. Alcohol can have a multiplicative effect on the development of gastrointestinal cancer when paired with tobacco usage or being overweight. The recent rises in the incidence of early-onset gastrointestinal cancers in various Western nations may have been influenced by alcohol use. It is important to encourage those who use alcohol in a harmful way to enroll in cancer screening programmes. Eliminating alcohol consumption seems to be effective in lowering the elevated cancer risk that alcohol causes.
Study of TCM Medication Rules against Aging based on Network Pharmacology and Data Mining
Authors:   Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China, Li Bo , Meng Wei ,   Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China, Liu Mengnan ,   Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China, Wang Fei ,   Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, Luo Huairong ,   Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China, Wang Li ,   Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China, Dong LI ,   Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
Published: April 2023

Background and Objective: Aging and age-related diseases have become a global concern. There may be a lot of room for the development of TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM) in the future. However, it has yet to fully form a system. Therefore, this study aims to explore the material basis and rules of TCM anti-aging based on network pharmacology and data mining. Methods: In this study, potential targets were searched using the HAGR and Aging Atlas databases, followed by compounds and traditional Chinese herbs from the TCMSP database. On this basis, the target-compound network, compound-Chinese herb network and target-compound-herb network were constructed and visualized using Cytoscape 3.7.2. These networks were used to identify potential targets, compounds and herbs. Finally, the rules of Chinese herbs were summarized by the analysis of properties, flavors, and meridian tropism. Results: A total of 25 potential targets, 210 candidate small compounds and 135 kinds of herbs were obtained. The top five targets included PTGS2, AR, ESR1, GSK3B and CCNA2, and diosgenin, formononetin, tanshinone IIA, phaseolin and phaseollidin were identified as the top 5 compounds. In addition, five core herbs (Huluba, Tiandong, Danshen, Kushen and Shandougen) were confirmed. Moreover, according to the frequency statistics, the Chinese herbs that interfere with aging were mainly bitter, acrid, and sweet, had both cold and warm properties, and belonged to the liver and lung meridians. Conclusion: We explored the potential mechanisms of TCM anti-aging by using network pharmacology and summarized the general rules of traditional Chinese herbs medicine. TCM has great potential in the treatment of aging, and this study provides a new approach and idea for the clinical application of integrated Chinese and Western medicine in the treatment of aging.
The Advancement of Lasers in Skin Health
Authors:   Department of Family Medicine, Skincare Anarchy LLC, New Jersey, United States, E Yadav , S Friedman ,   Department of Family Medicine, Skincare Anarchy LLC, New Jersey, United States
Published: April 2023

Lasers have evolved quite drastically since their roots were discovered back in 1900. Today, lasers have a prevalent place in the skincare world and are used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions. Lasers were first used in dermatology in 1963, and although the technology was groundbreaking at the time, laser treatments were still slow and painful for patients. We look at how lasers have evolved since then to make skincare treatments more effective and result in less side effects. In particular, we focus on why fractional carbon dioxide lasers have become so popular in recent years. Although lasers in skincare have developed considerably in recent history, we also explore opportunities for growth and further advancement. Although lasers sound like a modern innovation, the origins of lasers used in skincare today go back more than 100 years. The technology has advanced drastically since lasers were first used, and today they are a popular and effective tool to treat skin conditions.
Polymer Reaction Engineering meets Explainable Machine Learning
Authors: Fiosina Jelena , Sievers Philipp , Drache Marco , Beuermann Sabine
Published: April 2023

Due to the complicated polymerization technique and statistical composition of the polymer, tailoring its characteristics is a challenging task. Modeling of the polymerizations can contribute to deeper insights into the process. This study applies state-of-the-art machine learning (ML) methods for modeling and reverse engineering of polymerization processes. ML methods (random forest, XGBoost and CatBoost) are trained on data sets generated by an in house developed kinetic Monte Carlo simulator. The applied ML models predict monomer concentration, average molar masses and full molar mass distributions with excellent accuracy (R2 > 0.96). Reverse engineering results delivering the polymerization recipe for a targeted molar mass distribution are less accurate, but still only minor deviations from the targeted molar mass distribution are seen. The influences of the input variables in ML models obtained by explainability methods correspond to the expert expectations.
Metadynamics simulations with Bohmian-style bias potential
Authors: Tikhonov Denis
Published: April 2023

Here, we present a parametrization of the metadynamics simulations for reactions involving breaking the chemical bonds along a single collective variable coordinate. The parameterization is based on the similarity between the bias potential in metadynamics and the quantum potential in the De Broglie-Bohm formalism. We derive the method and test it on two prototypical reaction types: proton transfer and breaking of the cyclohexene cycle (reversed Diels-Alder reaction).
Tribology of Copper Metal-Matrix Composites Reinforced with Fluorinated Graphene Oxide Nanosheets: Implications for Solid Lubricants in Mechanical Switches
Authors: Savjani Nicky , Orts Mercadillo Vicente , Hodgeman Darren , Paterakis George , Deng Yubao , Valles Cristina , Anagnostopoulos George , Galiotis Costas , Bissett Mark , Kinloch Ian
Published: April 2023

Applications of copper coatings on steel switching mechanisms are abundant owing to their high conductivities and corrosion resistance that they impart on the engineered assemblies. However, applications of these coatings on such moving parts are limited due to their poor tribological properties; tendencies to generate high friction and susceptibility to degradative wear. In this study, we have fabricated a fluorinated graphene oxide-copper metal matrix composite (FGO-CMMC) on an AISI52100 bearing steel substrate by a simple electrodeposition process in water. The FGO-CMMC coatings exhibited excellent lubrication performance under pin-on-disk (PoD) tribological sliding at 1N load, which reduced CoF by 63 and 69%, compared to the GO-CMMC and pure copper coatings that were also prepared. Furthermore, FGO-CMMC achieved low friction and low wear at higher sliding loads. The lubrication enhancement of the FGO-CMMCs is attributed to the tribochemical reaction of FGO with the AISI 52100 steel counterface initiated by sliding load. The formation of an asymmetric tribofilm structure on the sliding track is critical; the performance of the FGO/Cu tribofilm formed in the track is boosted by the continued fluorination of the counterface surface during PoD sliding, passivating the tribosystem from adhesion-driven breakdown. The FGO-CMMC and GO-CMMC coatings also provide increased corrosion protection reaching 94.2 and 91.6 % compared to the bare steel substrate, allowing for the preservation of the long-term low friction performance of the coating. Other influences include the improved interlaminar shear strength of the FGO-containing composite. The excellent lubrication performance of copper coatings by FGO incorporation makes the CMMC a promising solid lubricant candidate for use in mechanical engineering applications.
Asymmetric Bipolar Membrane for High Current Density Electrodialysis Operation with Exceptional Stability
Authors: Lucas Éowyn , Bui Justin , Hwang Monica , Wang Kaiwen , Bell Alexis , Weber Adam , Ardo Shane , Atwater Harry , Xiang Chengxiang
Published: April 2023

Bipolar membranes (BPMs) enable isolated acidic/alkaline regions in electrochemical devices, facilitating optimized catalytic environments for water electrolysis, CO2 reduction, and electrodialysis. For economic feasibility, BPMs must achieve stable, high current density operation with low overpotentials. We report a graphene oxide (GrOx) catalyzed, asymmetric BPM capable of electrodialysis at 1 A cm-2 with overpotentials < 250 mV. Experiments and continuum modeling demonstrate that the low overpotentials for water dissociation are achieved by deprotonation at GrOx catalyst sites located within the high electric field BPM junction region. The asymmetric nature of the BPM allows it to overcome water transport limitations due to its thin anion exchange layer, while maintaining near unity Faradaic efficiency for acid and base generation. Additionally, the asymmetric BPM exhibits voltage stability exceeding 1100 hours at 80 mA cm-2 and 100 hours at 500 mA cm-2 and its freestanding architecture implemented in an electrodialysis cell stack demonstrates its real-world applicability.
Multiscale Process Modeling of a Carbon Fiber/Epoxy Composite for Predicting Residual Stress and Strength
Authors: Deshpande Prathamesh , Olaya Michael , Krieg Aaron , Patil Sagar , Shah Sagar , King Julia , Odegard Gregory , Maiaru Marianna
Published: April 2023

During the manufacturing of composite structures, cure shrinkage of the thermoset matrix and differential thermal contraction mismatch between the matrix and fiber reinforcement cause the formation of residual stresses, which can result in a loss in structural durability. New multiscale computational process modeling is essential for linking material chemistry, processing parameters, residual stress evolution, and optimizing mechanical performance. This study establishes a new multiscale process modeling method to accurately predict residual stresses in a unidirectional carbon fiber/epoxy composite using molecular dynamics and finite element analysis simulation techniques. The results of this work demonstrate that process-induced residual stresses have a significant impact on the composite strength in transverse tension, out-of-plane shear, and in-plane shear, with a maximum reduction in strength of 35%. Moving forward, this method can be used as a design and optimization tool for future composite structures for specific engineering applications and can provide processing parameters that can maximize desirable composite properties and/or minimize composite manufacturing energy and cost.
Quantitative Assessment of Hydrophilicity/Hydrophobicity in Mesoporous Silica by combining Adsorption, Liquid Intrusion and solid-state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Cuadrado Collados Carlos , Huber Christoph , Söllner Jakob , Grass Jan-Paul , Inayat Alexandra , Durdyyev Rustam , Smith Ana , Wisser Dorothea , Hartmann Martin , Thommes Matthias
Published: April 2023

We have developed a comprehensive strategy for assessing the surface chemistry of nanoporous materials by combining advanced adsorption studies, novel liquid intrusion techniques and solid-state NMR spectroscopy. For this we have chosen a well-defined system of model materials, i.e., the highly ordered mesoporous silica molecular sieve SBA-15 in its pristine state, and functionalized with different amounts of trimethylsilyl groups. For an absolute quantification of the trimethylsilyl group density, quantitative 1H solid-state NMR spectroscopy under Magic Angle Spinning was employed. 1H two-dimensional single quantum double quantum MAS NMR spectra reveal an intimate mixture of TMS and residual OH groups on the surface. A full textural characterization of the materials was obtained by high-resolution argon at 87 K adsorption, coupled with the application of dedicated methods based on non-local-density functional theory. Based on the known texture of the model materials, we developed a method allowing one to determine the effective contact angle of water adsorbed on the pore surfaces, constituting a powerful parameter for the characterization of the surface chemistry inside porous materials. The surface chemistry was found to vary from a hydrophilic to a hydrophobic as the TMS functionalization content was increased, leading to contact angles from 0 ° (complete wetting) to 120 ° (non-wetting). For wetting and partial wetting surfaces, pore condensation of water is observed at pressures P smaller than the bulk saturation pressure P0 (i.e., at P/P0 < 1), the contact angle was determined from the water sorption isotherms by applying the modified Kelvin equation on the desorption branch of the observed hysteresis loop (which reflects here the thermodynamic liquid-vapour transition). However, on non- wetting surfaces, pore condensation occurs at pressures above the saturation pressure (i.e., at P/P0 > 1). In this case, we investigated the pore filling of water by the application of novel, liquid water intrusion/extrusion experiment, i.e. by applying the Washburn equation on the water intrusion branch (which reflects here the thermodynamic equilibrium vapor-liquid transition of a non-wetting fluid). Complementary molecular simulations provide density profiles of water on pristine and TMS-grafted silica surfaces, which agree with the obtained experimental data. Summarizing, we present a comprehensive and reliable methodology for assessing the hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of siliceous nanoporous materials, which has the potential to optimize applications in heterogeneous catalysis and separation (e.g.chromatography).
Synthesis and Binding Profile Using Molecular Dynamics of New Building Blocks for PSMA Theranostics and the PSMA617-Cystine-Doxorubicin Therapeutic Bioconjugate Against Prostate Cancer
Authors: Machairas Evangelos , Laros George , Lambrinidis George , Halabalaki Maria , Liolios Christos , Kolocouris Antonios
Published: April 2023

GCPII also known as Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA), is overexpressed in prostate cancer (PCa) cells and provide a biomarker for tumor targeting PSMA receptor. The development of lysine-urea-glutamate pharmacophore based inhibitors targeting PSMA for theranostics applications led to PSMA11 and PSMA617. In PSMA11, this pharmacophore is attached via aminohexanoic acid (Ahx) spacer to a chelator while in PSMA617 the pharmacophore is connecting with the linker 2-naphthyl-L-Ala, trans-4-(aminomethyl)cyclohexanecarboxylic acid and then to chelator. Here, we synthesized: (a) a squaramide analog of lysine-urea-glutamic acid; (b) two new building blocks for PSMA theranostics in which lysine-urea-glutamic acid was attached with two (i) phenyl alanine residues to target arene binding site of PSMA receptor and (ii) amino hexanoic acid residues. (d) Inspired from the promising structure of PSMA617 we synthesized a new bioconjugate prodrug in which we replaced the chelator in PSMA617 with a cleavable cystine linker attached to the anticancer drug Doxorubicin. Induced fit docking and MD simulations explored the binding profile of the new molecules.
Oral Manifestation in Pregnant Women in Sulaimaniyah City
Authors: A Hama Amin, Sonya , Mohamed Ahmed Khadija
Published: April 2023

Background: Pregnancy is a physiological process during which a major hormonal change take place which leads to an imbalance in the oral environment and development of oral manifestation that can adversely affect mother’s health and the health of the unborn child.

Objective: To assess the prevalence of the oral manifestation of pregnant women and to evaluate the correlation of these manifestations with the oral hygiene status.

Patients and Methods: A total of 150 pregnant women were enrolled in this study on which a meticulous intraoral examination and evaluation of oral health status using oral hygiene index simplified (OHI-S) carried out.

Results: The most involved age group was (21-25) years 38.00%. It was concluded that the most frequent oral finding was halitosis 67.33%, followed by dry mouth 59.33%, taste alteration 46%, pregnancy epulis 9.33%, candidiasis 7.33%, and ulceration 4%. In addition, pregnancy epulis and halitosis were significantly correlated with poor oral hygiene.

Conclusion: Pregnancy is associated with oral manifestations; therefore, dentists should be aware of such manifestations and provide education regarding oral health status and maintenance of good oral hygiene during pregnancy
An OMA1 redox site controls mitochondrial homeostasis, sarcoma growth, and immunogenicity
Authors: Miallot Richard , Millet Virginie , Groult Yann , Modelska Angelika , Crescence Lydie , Roulland Sandrine , Henri Sandrine , Malissen Bernard , Brouilly Nicolas , Panicot-Dubois Laurence , Vincentelli Renaud , Sulzenbacher Gerlind , Finetti Pascal , Dutour Aurélie , Blay Jean-Yves , Bertucci François , Galland Franck , Naquet Philippe
Published: April 2023

Aggressive tumors often display mitochondrial dysfunction. Upon oxidative stress, mitochondria undergo fission through OMA1-mediated cleavage of the fusion effector OPA1. In yeast, a redox-sensing switch participates in OMA1 activation. 3D modeling of OMA1 comforted the notion that cysteine 403 might participate in a similar sensor in mammalian cells. Using prime editing, we developed a mouse sarcoma cell line in which OMA1 cysteine 403 was mutated in alanine. Mutant cells showed impaired mitochondrial responses to stress including ATP production, reduced fission, resistance to apoptosis, and enhanced mitochondrial DNA release. This mutation prevented tumor development in immunocompetent, but not nude or cDC1 dendritic cell–deficient, mice. These cells prime CD8+lymphocytes that accumulate in mutant tumors, whereas their depletion delays tumor control. Thus, OMA1 inactivation increased the development of anti-tumor immunity. Patients with complex genomic soft tissue sarcoma showed variations in the level of OMA1 and OPA1 transcripts. High expression of OPA1 in primary tumors was associated with shorter metastasis-free survival after surgery, and low expression of OPA1, with anti-tumor immune signatures. Targeting OMA1 activity may enhance sarcoma immunogenicity.
Validating organoid-derived human intestinal monolayers for personalized therapy in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Birimberg-Schwartz Liron , Ip Wan , Bartlett Claire , Avolio Julie , Vonk Annelotte M , Gunawardena Tarini , Du Kai , Esmaeili Mohsen , Beekman Jeffrey M , Rommens Johanna , Strug Lisa , Bear Christine E , Moraes Theo J , Gonska Tanja
Published: April 2023

Highly effective drugs modulating the defective protein encoded by the CFTR gene have revolutionized cystic fibrosis (CF) therapy. Preclinical drug-testing on human nasal epithelial (HNE) cell cultures and 3-dimensional human intestinal organoids (3D HIO) are used to address patient-specific variation in drug response and to optimize individual treatment for people with CF. This study is the first to report comparable CFTR functional responses to CFTR modulator treatment among patients with different classes of CFTR gene variants using the three methods of 2D HIO, 3D HIO, and HNE. Furthermore, 2D HIO showed good correlation to clinical outcome markers. A larger measurable CFTR functional range and access to the apical membrane were identified as advantages of 2D HIO over HNE and 3D HIO, respectively. Our study thus expands the utility of 2D intestinal monolayers as a preclinical drug testing tool for CF.
Multidimensional conservation analysis decodes the expression of conserved long noncoding RNAs
Authors: Zhou Qiuzhong , Jiang Yuxi , Cai Chaoqun , Li Wen , Leow Melvin Khee-Shing , Yang Yi , Liu Jin , Xu Dan , Sun Lei
Published: April 2023

Although long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) experience weaker evolutionary constraints and exhibit lower sequence conservation than coding genes, they can still conserve their features in various aspects. Here, we used multiple approaches to systemically evaluate the conservation between human and mouse lncRNAs from various dimensions including sequences, promoter, global synteny, and local synteny, which led to the identification of 1,731 conserved lncRNAs with 427 high-confidence ones meeting multiple criteria. Conserved lncRNAs, compared with non-conserved ones, generally have longer gene bodies, more exons and transcripts, stronger connections with human diseases, and are more abundant and widespread across different tissues. Transcription factor (TF) profile analysis revealed a significant enrichment of TF types and numbers in the promoters of conserved lncRNAs. We further identified a set of TFs that preferentially bind to conserved lncRNAs and exert stronger regulation on conserved than non-conserved lncRNAs. Our study has reconciled some discrepant interpretations of lncRNA conservation and revealed a new set of transcriptional factors ruling the expression of conserved lncRNAs.
Social infrastructure as a factor of sustainable development of the territory
Authors: Iurchenko Svitlana , Iurchenko Оlena
Published: April 2023

Social infrastructure plays an important role in creating conditions to meet the material and spiritual needs of the population, the reproduction of human capital, the integrated development of the territory. The subject of the research is the social infrastructure. The purpose of this article is to show the role of social infrastructure as a factor of sustainable development of the territory. To achieve the goal, the following tasks were solved: to identify the essence and structure of social infrastructure, to show its role in the world economy and individual countries, to consider the main functions of social infrastructure. The following methods were used: descriptive, comparative to identify the essence of social infrastructure, analysis and synthesis to characterize its role in the world economy and individual countries, the system approach – to characterize the functions of social infrastructure in the sustainable development of the territory. The results obtained: it is revealed that currently there is no consensus definition of the category "social infrastructure" and its composition; it is shown that the traditional types of services are replenished by new services; the reproductive functions of social infrastructure are characterized. Conclusions: social infrastructure is actively developing in the world, which makes a significant contribution to GDP and employment of the population, sustainable development of the territory. However, the level of its development depends on a number of internal and external factors. It is necessary to develop an effective policy of social infrastructure development in each country of the world and its subregions.
SPECIFICS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ASYMMETRIC ENCRYPTION ALGORITHM ON ELLIPTIC CURVES
Authors: Golovko G. , Kalynovych M.
Published: April 2023

The modern world is inextricably linked with information technologies. Every year, the Internet expands, and thousands of sites that provide various services have been created. With a stable Internet connection, you can solve most of life's problems without leaving home – from ordering dinner to receiving government services. Nowadays, when educational institutions and businesses have been forced to switch to a remote form of work due to the pandemic, the issue of information protection is more pressing than ever. There are many cryptographic algorithms that have protected our information on the Internet for decades, but as computing power grows, so do the demands on such algorithms. Some of them have not coped with the challenge of time and are no longer used, which is why there is a need to develop new algorithms that use more complex mathematical principles and provide a higher level of security. And there is a whole class of algorithms that use the principles of elliptic curves to provide greater security with relatively lower use of system resources.
ВЗАЄМОДІЯ МІЖ «S-BOTS» ОДНІЄЇ «SWARM-BOT» SYSTEM У ФІЗИЧНОМУ НЕОРГАНІЗОВАНОМУ СЕРЕДОВИЩІ
Authors: Krivoulya G. , Tokariev V. , Ilina I. , Kravets V.
Published: April 2023

З появою принципово нових «Swarm-bot» systems, з перебудовуваною структурою та програмованою логікою, виникла необхідність урахування факторів, які взаємодіють з фізичним неорганізованим середовищем, збільшенням числа елементів, що входять до їх складу, а також, числом внутрішніх зв'язків. Особливістю нових «Swarm-bot» systems є те, що їх функції, параметри, структури та поведінка при впливі внутрішніх або зовнішніх факторів на різних часових інтервалах життєвого циклу можуть змінюватися або програмним, або апаратним способом. В даний час доведено, що вирішення складних завдань є більш ефективним тоді, коли застосовуються «Swarm-bot» systems в цілому, а не окремі елементи, що входять до їх складу, наприклад, окремі «s-bots», так як при застосуванні «Swarm-bot» systems значно збільшується радіус дії за рахунок розосередження «s-bots», що входять до складу цієї «Swarm-bot» system по всій заданій поверхні, що значно підвищує шанси покрити всю поверхню без зон пропуску (так званих сліпих зон), у яких Drones не зможуть здійснити комунікацію між собою. Ця стаття присвячена вирішенню задачі покриття заданої поверхні регулярними багатокутниками, вписаними в коло.
The topic of memory and identity in contemporary Ukrainian prose
Authors: Kavun Lidiia
Published: April 2023

The relevance of the study is determined by the need to highlight the issues of memory and identity in the context of globalization, decolonization, the escalation of the Russian-Ukrainian war, and the intensification of the search for national and individual identity, particularly through the means of literature. The object of the research is Ukrainian prose of the beginning of the 21st century, which records memory and raises the issues of identity and historical continuity. The epic dimension of the problem is most fully represented by such novels as “Oblivion” by Tania Maliarchuk, “Amadoka” by Sofiіa Andrukhovych, and “Beech Land” by Maria Matios. The subject of the research is individual and group memory and identity, at one time artificially displaced from the national narrative and deliberately interrupted by the dictatorial Soviet-Russian regime. The study aims to investigate the artistic reconstruction of the memory and identity of Ukrainians in national literature of the beginning of the 21st century, to find out the instrumentalization of memory meanings and the role of remembering/forgetting. As a result of the research, using the hermeneutic method, we trace the artistic interpretation of memory in the context of an intensive understanding of the place and role of Ukrainians in the unfolding of the plot of history, returning to them a sense of individuality, and simply uniqueness, integrality, and durability (that is, permanence). Tania Maliarchuk’s novel “Oblivion” tells about the memory and place of modern man in the post-colonial Ukrainian space, about his awareness of the connection and continuity of the past, present, and future. Sofiіa Andrukhovych's novel “Amadoka” deals with the history of four generations of different eras and is united by the theme of the rupture of memory, tradition, time, and space. A successful attempt at positive processing of memory and identity based on the material of the history of Bukovyna in the 18th–21st centuries was performed by Maria Matios in the novel “Beech Land”. In addition to the common goal of exposing the Soviet pseudo-memory and (re)nourishing specific Ukrainian identity, the authors raise issues of regional specificity of public perception and debunking Soviet-Russian myths about the USSR. The prospects of research on the topic of memory and identity are reproductions of the entire range of semantic resources encoded in Ukrainian literature. This can become a way to escape from the power of the myths of the Russian Empire.
Application of Empowerment Pedagogy in Training of Future Primary School Teachers on the Basis of Sustainable Development
Authors: Chaikovska Hanna
Published: April 2023

The problem of Empowerment Pedagogy has been studied in the psychological and pedagogical aspect and in the dimension of higher pedagogical education. Various approaches to the interpretation of the definition of the defined concept have been revealed. Emphasis is placed on the Pedagogy of Empowerment as a resource for self-discovery and self-education of future primary school teachers through activities in favour of sustainable development. The theoretical aspects of the given problem are studied on the basis of the analysis of the scientific literature, comparative and dialectical analysis of the obtained data. The potential possibilities of Empowerment Pedagogy in training of future primary school teachers to the professional activity considering the principles of sustainable development have been clarified. The impact of empowerment on the development of the strategy of individual independent activity of higher education seekers in the area of personal and professional responsibility has been revealed. The experimental study was conducted to verify the theoretical data involving students of the fourth year of study of the educational and professional program "Primary Education" of Ternopil Volodymyr Hnatiuk National Pedagogical University. Experimental training took place when teaching the elective course "Education for sustainable development in modern primary school" to future teachers. In the course of the research work, the impact of Empowerment Pedagogy on the ability of future primary school teachers to self-analyse and develop transformational empowerment activities was established. The results of control measurements showed an increase in the number of respondents with an active and transformational level of empowerment activities. Observations of the educational process testify to the increased awareness of future teachers of individual responsibility for sustainable development in the personal and professional spheres.
Electronic Means of Communication as a Means of Remote Speech Therapy for Adult Stroke Survivors
Authors: Ovcharenko Maryna
Published: April 2023

The article discusses the types of strokes, general statistics and prevalence of strokes in the world and in Ukraine. The survey and tendencies to occurrence in younger people were carried out; the factors of stroke occurrence in young people have been studied. Statistics on the uneven distribution of strokes by gender were analyzed. It has been determined that women are at higher risk of suffering a severe or fatal stroke than men. The main reasons for such statistics are indicated. The main types of speech and language impairments that can occur after cerebral circulatory disorders are analyzed. The leading signs of aphasia, apraxia and dysarthria in adults have been identified. The definition of progressive apraxia of speech is revealed. It is established that these disorders occur due to damage to the language areas of the brain. The advantages of using electronic means of communication in speech-language therapy during quarantine restrictions and martial law in Ukraine are revealed. Software and messengers were characterised, such as Google Meet, Zoom, Teams, and Skype, that are used during distance and/or face-to-face sessions with a speech language pathologist. The main advantages of using these programs and the requirements for a speech language pathologist in the use of electronic means of communication are described. The concept of "social networks" and their impact on the rehabilitation of adult patients is revealed. The positive aspects of using social networks with adults during speech-language therapy, in particular Instagram and Facebook, are highlighted. Mobile applications are described as an additional means of restoring various aspects of speech, language and higher mental functions. It is noted that the current situation in the country, taking into account quarantine restrictions and martial law, can not provide full, continuous and quality speech language therapy in these cases, which leads to the conclusion that the lack of effectiveness of using exclusively traditional methods and techniques to compensate speech and language disorders caused by stroke, and encourages further search for ways to improve it by electronic means of communication. The author sees the need for a research aimed at studying the use of electronic means of communication in speech language therapy for people who have suffered a stroke.