bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A secretory phospholipase D hydrolyzes phosphatidylcholine to suppress rice heading time
Authors: Qu Li , Chu Yu-Jia , Lin Wen-Hui , Xue Hong-Wei
Published: December 2021

Phospholipase D (PLD) hydrolyzes membrane phospholipids and is crucial in various physiological processes and transduction of different signals. Secretory phospholipases play important roles in mammals, however, whose functions in plants remain largely unknown. We previously identified a rice secretory PLD (spPLD) that harbors a signal peptide and here we reported the secretion and function of spPLD in rice heading time regulation. Subcellular localization analysis confirmed the signal peptide is indispensable for spPLD secretion into the extracellular spaces, where spPLD hydrolyzes substrates. spPLD overexpression results in delayed heading time which is dependent on its secretory character, while suppression or deficiency of spPLD led to the early heading of rice under both short-day and long-day conditions, which is consistent with that spPLD overexpression/suppression indeed led to the reduced/increased Hd3a/RFT1 (Arabidopsis Flowing Locus T homolog) activities. Interestingly, rice Hd3a and RFT1 bind to phosphatidylcholines (PCs) and a further analysis by lipidomic approach using mass spectrometry revealed the altered phospholipids profiles in shoot apical meristem, particularly the PC species, under altered spPLD expressions. These results indicate the significance of secretory spPLD and help to elucidate the regulatory network of rice heading time.
Effects of different doses of complete Freund’s adjuvant on nociceptive behaviour and inflammatory parameters in polyarthritic rat model mimicking rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Noh Ain’ Sabreena Mohd , Chuan Tan Dai , Khir Nurul Ajilah Mohamed , Zin Anani Aila Mat , Ghazali Anis Kausar , Long Idris , Ab Aziz Che Badariah , Ismail Che Aishah Nazariah
Published: December 2021

Complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) has been used to develop the arthritic or inflammatory condition in the animal, but there is a lack of information concerning high CFA doses on nociceptive behaviour and inflammatory parameters. This study aimed to compare the effects of different high doses of CFA in rat to closely mimic nociceptive and inflammatory parameters of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in humans. Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6): Control (C), CFA-induced polyarthritic groups at 5.0 mg/mL (CFA 5.0), 7.5 mg/mL (CFA 7.5) and 10.0mg/mL (CFA 10.0). The rats’ right hindpaw was inoculated with CFA intradermally and developed into a polyarthritic state within 20 days. Nociceptive behavioural assessments, including von Frey and hot plate tests and spontaneous activities, were conducted on day 0, 7, 15 and 20. Bilateral ankle joints diameter and circumference, full blood count, joints and paw histological examinations were also conducted throughout the study period. Based on the results, CFA 5.0 and CFA 7.5 groups showed a significant increase in spontaneous activities and development of thermal hyperalgesia but no change in body weight and food intake, no development of tactile allodynia and haematological indices, and no significant morphological changes of joints histology. Meanwhile, CFA 10.0 group demonstrated significant and constant changes in all nociceptive and inflammatory parameters investigated. In conclusion, CFA at the dose of 10mg/mL has the most potential and reliable dosage to develop polyarthritis in a rat model to mimic RA condition in humans.
“Taking action” to reduce pain—Has interpretation of the motor adaptation to pain been too simplistic?
Authors: Bergin Michael , Tucker Kylie , Vicenzino Bill , Hodges Paul W.
Published: December 2021

Movement adapts during acute pain. This is assumed to reduce nociceptive input, but the interpretation may not be straightforward. We investigated whether movement adaptation during pain reflects a purposeful search for a less painful solution. Three groups of participants performed two blocks (Baseline, Experimental) of wrist movements in the radial-ulnar direction. For the Control group (n = 10) both blocks were painfree. In two groups, painful electrical stimulation was applied at the elbow in Experimental conditions when the wrist crossed radial-ulnar neutral. Different stimulus intensities were given for specific wrist angles in a secondary direction (flexion-extension) as the wrist passed radial-ulnar neutral (Pain 5–1 group:painful stimulation at ~5 or ~1/10—n = 21; Pain 5–0 group:~5 or 0(no stimulation)/10—n = 6)). Participants were not informed about the less painful alternative and could use any strategy. We recorded the percentage of movements using the wrist flexion/extension alignment that evoked the lower intensity noxious stimulus, movement variability, and change in wrist/forearm alignment during pain. Participants adapted their strategy of wrist movement during pain provocation and reported less pain over time. Three adaptations of wrist movement were observed; (i) greater use of the wrist alignment with no/less noxious input (Pain 5–1, n = 8/21; Pain 5–0, n = 2/6); (ii) small (n = 9/21; n = 3/6) or (iii) large (n = 4/21; n = 1/6) change of wrist/forearm alignment to a region that was not allocated to provide an actual reduction in noxious stimulus. Pain reduction was achieved with “taking action” to relieve pain and did not depend on reduced noxious stimulus.
The neutrophil protein CD177 is a novel PDPN receptor that regulates human cancer-associated fibroblast physiology
Authors: Astarita Jillian L. , Keerthivasan Shilpa , Husain Bushra , Şenbabaoğlu Yasin , Verschueren Erik , Gierke Sarah , Pham Victoria C. , Peterson Sean M. , Chalouni Cecile , Pierce Andrew A. , Lill Jennie R. , Gonzalez Lino C. , Martinez-Martin Nadia , Turley Shannon J.
Published: December 2021

The cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) marker podoplanin (PDPN) is generally correlated with poor clinical outcomes in cancer patients and thus represents a promising therapeutic target. Despite its biomedical relevance, basic aspects of PDPN biology such as its cellular functions and cell surface ligands remain poorly uncharacterized, thus challenging drug development. Here, we utilize a high throughput platform to elucidate the PDPN cell surface interactome, and uncover the neutrophil protein CD177 as a new binding partner. Quantitative proteomics analysis of the CAF phosphoproteome reveals a role for PDPN in cell signaling, growth and actomyosin contractility, among other processes. Moreover, cellular assays demonstrate that CD177 is a functional antagonist, recapitulating the phenotype observed in PDPN-deficient CAFs. In sum, starting from the unbiased elucidation of the PDPN co-receptome, our work provides insights into PDPN functions and reveals the PDPN/CD177 axis as a possible modulator of fibroblast physiology in the tumor microenvironment.
Preloaded D-methionine protects from steady state and impulse noise-induced hearing loss and induces long-term cochlear and endogenous antioxidant effects
Authors: Campbell Kathleen , Cosenza Nicole , Meech Robert , Buhnerkempe Michael , Qin Jun , Rybak Leonard , Fox Daniel
Published: December 2021

Objective

Determine effective preloading timepoints for D-methionine (D-met) otoprotection from steady state or impulse noise and impact on cochlear and serum antioxidant measures.

Design

D-met started 2.0-, 2.5-, 3.0-, or 3.5- days before steady-state or impulse noise exposure with saline controls. Auditory brainstem response (ABRs) measured from 2 to 20 kHz at baseline and 21 days post-noise. Samples were then collected for serum (SOD, CAT, GR, GPx) and cochlear (GSH, GSSG) antioxidant levels.

Study sample

Ten Chinchillas per group.

Results

Preloading D-met significantly reduced ABR threshold shifts for both impulse and steady state noise exposures but with different optimal starting time points and with differences in antioxidant measures.

For impulse noise exposure, the 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 day preloading start provide significant threshold shift protection at all frequencies. Compared to the saline controls, serum GR for the 3.0 and 3.5 day preloading groups was significantly increased at 21 days with no significant increase in SOD, CAT or GPx for any impulse preloading time point. Cochlear GSH, GSSG, and GSH/GSSG ratio were not significantly different from saline controls at 21 days post noise exposure.

For steady state noise exposure, significant threshold shift protection occurred at all frequencies for the 3.5, 3.0 and 2.5 day preloading start times but protection only occurred at 3 of the 6 test frequencies for the 2.0 day preloading start point. Compared to the saline controls, preloaded D-met steady-state noise groups demonstrated significantly higher serum SOD for the 2.5–3.5 day starting time points and GPx for the 2.5 day starting time but no significant increase in GR or CAT for any preloading time point. Compared to saline controls, D-met significantly increased cochlear GSH concentrations in the 2 and 2.5 day steady-state noise exposed groups but no significant differences in GSSG or the GSH/GSSG ratio were noted for any steady state noise-exposed group.

Conclusions

The optimal D-met preloading starting time window is earlier for steady state (3.5–2.5 days) than impulse noise (3.0–2.0). At 21 days post impulse noise, D-met increased serum GR for 2 preloading time points but not SOD, CAT, or GpX and not cochlear GSH, GSSG or the GSH/GSSG ratio. At 21 days post steady state noise D-met increased serum SOD and GPx at select preloading time points but not CAT or GR. However D-met did increase the cochlear GSH at select preloading time points but not GSSG or the GSH/GSSG ratio.
Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate directly ameliorates liver fibrosis by inducing hepatic stellate cell apoptosis via downregulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Lee Sung Won , Kim Sung Min , Hur Wonhee , Kang Byung-Yoon , Lee Hae Lim , Nam Heechul , Yoo Sun Hong , Sung Pil Soo , Kwon Jung Hyun , Jang Jeong Won , Kim Seong-Jun , Yoon Seung Kew
Published: December 2021

Background

Antifibrotic agent for the treatment of liver fibrosis has not been developed so far. Long term treatment of chronic hepatitis B patients with antiviral drugs tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and entecavir (ETV) results in the regression of liver fibrosis, but the underlying mechanism has not been clarified. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the direct impact of TDF and ETV on liver fibrosis.

Methods

Activated hepatic stellate cell (HSC) cell lines were used to evaluate the effects of TDF and ETV. After treatment with each antiviral agent, cell viability, morphology, apoptotic features, autophagy and antifibrosis signalling pathways were examined. Then, collagen deposition, fibrosis markers and activated HSCs were measured in liver tissues of the liver fibrosis model mice.

Results

After TDF treatment, the viabilities of LX2 and HSC-T6 cells were decreased, and the cells exhibited apoptotic features, but ETV did not induce these effects. Cleavage of PARP and Caspase-3 and the inhibition of the antiapoptotic gene Bcl-xl indicated activated HSC apoptosis following TDF treatment. TDF simultaneously increased autophagy, which also regulated apoptosis through crosstalk. TDF inactivated the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway, which was associated with the activation of both apoptosis and autophagy. In the liver fibrosis mouse model, the fibrotic area and activated HSC markers were decreased by TDF but not ETV treatment. Additionally, apoptotic cells were concentrated in the periportal fibrotic area after TDF treatment, which indicated the specific antifibrotic effect of TDF.

Conclusions

TDF directly ameliorates liver fibrosis by downregulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway, which results in the apoptosis of activated HSCs. The antifibrotic effects of TDF indicate that it may be a therapeutic agent for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
Current status of cardiac rehabilitation among representative hospitals treating acute myocardial infarction in South Korea
Authors: Park Myung Soo , Lee Sunki , Ahn Taehoon , Kim Doyoung , Jung Mi-Hyang , Choi Jae Hyuk , Han Seongwoo , Ryu Kyu Hyung , Kim Eung Ju
Published: December 2021

Cardiac rehabilitation services are mostly underutilized despite the documentation of substantial morbidity and mortality benefits of cardiac rehabilitation post-acute myocardial infarction. To assess the implementation rate and barriers to cardiac rehabilitation in hospitals dealing with acute myocardial infarction in South Korea, between May and July 2016, questionnaires were emailed to cardiology directors of 93 hospitals in South Korea; all hospitals were certified institutes for coronary interventions. The questionnaires included 16 questions on the hospital type, cardiology practice, and implementation of cardiac rehabilitation. The obtained data were categorized into two groups based on the type of the hospital (secondary or tertiary) and statistically analysed. Of the 72 hospitals that responded (response rate of 77%), 39 (54%) were tertiary medical centers and 33 (46%) were secondary medical centers. All hospitals treated acute myocardial infarction patients and performed emergency percutaneous coronary intervention; 79% (57/72) of the hospitals performed coronary artery bypass grafting. However, the rate of implementation of cardiac rehabilitation was low overall (28%, 20/72 hospitals) and even lower in secondary medical centers (12%, 4/33 hospitals) than in tertiary centers (41%, 16/39 hospitals, p = 0.002). The major barriers to cardiac rehabilitation included the lack of staff (59%) and lack of space (33%). In contrast to the wide availability of acute-phase invasive treatment for AMI, the overall implementation of cardiac rehabilitation is extremely poor in South Korea. Considering the established benefits of cardiac rehabilitation in patients with acute myocardial infarction, more administrative support, such as increasing the fee for cardiac rehabilitation services by an appropriate level of health insurance coverage should be warranted.
Comparison Study on Improved Movie Recommender Systems
Authors: Lavanya R. , Gogia Ebani , Rai Nihal
Published: December 2021

Recommendation system is a crucial part of offering items especially in services that offer streaming. For streaming movie services on OTT, RS are a helping hand for users in finding new movies for leisure. In this paper, we propose a machine learning an approach based on auto encoders to produce a CF system which outputs movie rating for a user based on a huge DB of ratings from other users. Utilising Movie Lens dataset, we explore the use of deep learning neural network based Stacked Auto encoders to predict user s ratings on new movies, thereby enabling movie recommendations. We consequently implement Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) to recommend movies to users. The experimental result showcase that our R S out performs a user-based neighbourhood baseline in terms of MSE on predicted ratings and in a survey in which user judge between recommendation s from both systems.
Effectiveness of Sms Advertising in Bangladesh: Drawing on Hierarchy of Effects Model
Authors: Mamun Muhammad Ziaulhaq
Published: December 2021

The study explored the effectiveness of Short Message Service (SMS) advertising on customers’ purchase decision focusing awareness, knowledge, liking, preference, conviction, and purchase attributes of Hierarchy of Effects Model. A total of 180 mobile phone subscribers were surveyed adopting non-probability convenience and judgmental sampling techniques through a structured questionnaire. It is found that none of the attributes have positive impact on the subscribers’ behavior. Purchase is found to be the most ineffective attribute followed by Conviction and Liking. Awareness, Knowledge, and Preference are least ineffective ones. However, SMS ad which explicitly mentions the company name and offers in the title, somewhat gets subscribers’ attention. It is noted that the SMS ads do not provide enough information, accessibility, and convenience. Brand loyalty and brand image of the products advertised have weak positive impact on consumer preference. The respondents view SMS ads mostly unconvincing and ineffective; but call rate packages, internet purchases and product discount purchases fared not so poorly. However, there are situations where SMS can be utilized effectively. As SMS advertising do not really incur much additional cost for the telecom companies, it can provide an avenue for information dissemination, as well as, to generate revenue from offers they promote.
Strategic Development and SWOT Analysis of Canting Batik Industry
Authors: Astuti Diah , Masrifah Ifah , Basir M. Abdul , Lestari Etty Puji
Published: December 2021

The development of canting batik industry has lagged, and the number has decreased compared to the batik industry. This industry is believed to have a potential passive market and can provide job opportunities for local workers, reducing urbanization. Based on this background, this research is needed to analyze the potential and innovation of canting batik industry in Central Java, Indonesia. We choose Central Java, based on the fact that the batik industries grew most in Pekalongan, Central Java. The article uses qualitative research. We use Focus Group Discussion and direct observation to map the competitiveness of SMEs. To see the most significant opportunities and challenges, we also use a SWOT analysis. The results of this study indicate that the growth of the canting stamped batik industry is relatively slow. Some of its causes are relatively expensive raw materials, low product demand, and local government support. SME players can use some strategies to make canting as a souvenir product, looking for alternative ways to non-brass raw materials, and cooperating with complementary industries, including the batik industry.
Assessment of Training and Perception of Teachers About Early Childhood Education Programme in Adaklu District, Volta-Region, Ghana
Authors: Agbayisah Seth , Dzakadzie Yayra
Published: December 2021

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Relationship betwwn Interpersonal Distress and Interpersonal Conflict Management Modes among College Students
Authors: HOU Yongmei , LI Yuyan
Published: December 2021

Objective To explore the status of college students' interpersonal conflict management modes and interpersonal distress, and analyze the impact of interpersonal conflict management modes on college students' interpersonal distress. Methods 471 college students in Guangdong Province were randomly selected through Internet recruitment. They were investigated with Interpersonal Comprehensive Diagnostic Scale for College Students (ICDS) and Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (MODE). Results ⑴ The total score of ICDS was (13.49±3.41); The scores of competition, cooperation, compromise, avoidance and accommodation were (7.83±1.40), (6.06±1.58), (6.59±1.37), (5.18±1.25) and (5.67 ±0.94), respectively. (2) There was a significant correlation between the score of each dimension of MODE and the total score of ICDS and the scores of following three dimensions of conversation, making friends and dealing with people (|r| =.175 to .483, all P <. 01). ⑶ The results of multivariate stepwise linear regression showed that competition, avoidance and accommodation were positively correlated with the total score of ICDS（β= . 483, . 461, . 175, all P <. 01), and cooperation and compromise were negatively correlated with the total score of ICDS (β=-.311, -. 298, P <. 01). Conclusion The interpersonal distress of college students is obvious, and their interpersonal communication ability needs to be improved. The interpersonal conflict management mode may be one of the main influencing factors of college students' interpersonal distress.
Wprowadzenie
Authors: Kołodziejczak Anna , Koliński Krystian
Published: December 2021

Przedstawiamy Państwu kolejny numer czasopisma „Rozwój Regionalny i Polityka Regionalna” będący pokłosiem konferencji „Wieś i Rolnictwo – razem czy osobno? Nowe funkcje wsi i rolnictwa – zintegrowane planowanie rozwoju”, która odbyła się w dniach 14–15 kwietnia 2021 r. na Wydziale Geografii Społeczno--Ekonomicznej i Gospodarki Przestrzennej. Została zorganizowana przez Zakład Geografii Rolnictwa i Wsi przy współpracy Zespołu Zadaniowego ds. Obszarów Wiejskich KPZK PAN.
Inteligentne rozwiązania technologiczne w działalności rolniczej
Authors: Kiniorska Iwona , Brambert Patryk , Kamińska Wioletta
Published: December 2021

Celem opracowania było określenie znaczenia nowoczesnych technologii stosowanych w wybranych formach działalności rolniczej polskiej wsi. Ukazano przykłady gospodarstw prowadzących działalność gospodarczą w oparciu o warzywnictwo i sadownictwo. Podstawą analizy były informacje uzyskane w 2019 r. podczas bezpośrednich wywiadów terenowych, uzupełnione danymi statystycznymi na temat krajowych upraw i zbiorów. Stosowanie inteligentnych rozwiązań technologicznych w działalności rolniczej ma duże znaczenie, ponieważ podnosi jakość produkcji rolnej. Właściwie dobrane, zrównoważone technologie rolne są jednym z komponentów koncepcji inteligentnej wsi. Jednak takie usprawnienie rolnictwa bez aktywnego włączenia czynnika ludzkiego i stabilnego systemu gospodarczego nie jest efektywne.
The medicine chest: education in the light of Abdel Hakim Murad’s understanding of modernity
Authors: Sinclair Kirstine
Published: December 2021

This contribution examines the relationship between understandings of modernity, Islam and educational ideals at Cambridge Muslim College (UK) and how such understandings contribute to the formation of meaningful selves amongst the students attending the college. The analysis takes as its point of departure the understanding of modernity of the founder of Cambridge Muslim College – Tim Winter aka Abdal Hakim Murad – as it is expressed in his publications, social media appearances and from conversations at the college. In a nutshell, modernity for Winter signifies a fragmentation of meaning and coherence and is associated with blind consumerism and superficiality. The aim of the college is to counter such fragmentation by providing coherence and meaning to its students. The college is presented – and perceived by students and graduates – as mediating between Islamic traditions and modern Muslim lives in the West and as living up to a responsibility of engaging in the development of both Muslim minorities and the wider society of which they are part. Thus, the educational ideal is not only pursued in traditional academic activities – it implies a certain lifestyle based on a particular understanding of Islam which is not as much about theological content as it is about how to instrumentalise the religion in everyday being and practice.
Study of an adsorption method for trace mercury based on Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Li Yijin , Xia Shanhong
Published: December 2021

In order to decrease the difficulty in trace mercury determination, an adsorption method for trace mercury based on Bacillus subtilis cells was proposed in this article. The adsorption process was characterized by optical microscopy and SEM. The adsorption mechanism was analyzed by IR. The adsorption performance was studied by measuring the concentration of supernate and calculating the adsorption efficiency. When adsorbing Hg2+, Bacillus subtilis cells gathered and their structure turned coarse. The IR results illustrated that functional groups bound with Hg for complexation during adsorption. Bacillus subtilis completed adsorption for trace Hg2+ in 15 min. The adsorption efficiency was maintained above 80% under low Hg2+ concentrations (<200 µg/L). The proposed study illustrates that Bacillus subtilis cells are highly efficient and easily obtained material for the adsorption of trace mercury, which shows potential to be further used in the pretreatment of trace Hg2+ detection.
M-hypercyclicity of C
0-semigroup and Svep of its generator
Authors: Toukmati A.
Published: December 2021

Let 𝒯 = (Tt
)
t

≥0 be a C
0-semigroup on a separable infinite dimensional Banach space X, with generator A. In this paper, we study the relationship between the single valued extension property of generator A, and the M-hypercyclicity of the C
0-semigroup. Specifically, we prove that if A does not have the single valued extension property at λ ∈ iℝ, then there exists a closed subspace M of X, such that the C
0-semigroup 𝒯 is M-hypercyclic. As a corollary, we get certain conditions of the generator A, for the C
0-semigroup to be M-hypercyclic.
Dispersive order comparisons on extreme order statistics from homogeneous dependent random vectors
Authors: Mesfioui Mhamed , Trufin Julien
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we investigate sufficient conditions for preservation property of the dispersive order for the smallest and largest order statistics of homogeneous dependent random vectors. Moreover, we establish sufficient conditions for ordering with the dispersive order the largest order statistics from dependent homogeneous samples of different sizes.
The HDPE composites reinforced with waste hybrid PET/cotton fibers modified with the synthesized modifier
Authors: Cao Wei , Li Qiuying , Wu Chifei
Published: December 2021

Large amounts of textile waste are generated every year and disposed of through landfill or incineration, leading to numerous environmental and social issues. In this study, waste hybrid polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/cotton fibers were used directly to reinforce high density polyethylene (HDPE) to prepare composites. In order to give full play to the fiber’s reinforcing characteristics, the PET/cotton fibers were further modified with the modifier using a novel synthesized tetraethyl orthosilicate/3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (KH550)/polyethylene (PE)-g-MAH (MPE) hybrid (TMPE). Fourier transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed that the TMPE was successfully coated on the surface of fibers. Furthermore, compared with the original and the MPE-modified fibers, the thermal stability of TMPE-modified fibers was significantly increased. SEM and mechanical test indicated that the compatibility of the modified fibers with HDPE had been significantly improved, which led to the improvement of mechanical properties. Compared with the original and MPE-modified fibers-reinforced HDPE composites, the bending strength, bending modulus, and impact strength of TMPE-modified fiber-reinforced HDPE composites were improved obviously by 31.7%, 25.7%, and 89.1%, respectively.
Non-Oscillating solutions of a generalized system of ODEs with derivative terms
Authors: Bharadwaj B V K , Baruah Pallav Kumar
Published: December 2021

We consider a system of ODEs of mixed order with derivative terms appearing in the non-linear function and show the existence of a solution which does not oscillate for such system. We applied the fixed point technique to show that under certain conditions there exists at least one solution to the system which is not only non-oscillating, but also asymptotically constant.
Different Paths of Neolithisation of the North-Eastern Part of Central Europe
Authors: Nowak Marek
Published: December 2021

Origins of the Neolithic in the north-eastern part of Central Europe were associated with migrations of groups of the Linear Pottery culture after the mid-sixth millennium BC, as in other parts of Central Europe. During these migrations, a careful selection of settlement regions took place, in terms of the ecological conditions most favourable for agriculture. The enclave-like pattern of the Neolithic settlement persisted into the fifth millennium BC when these enclaves were inhabited by post-Linear groups. The remaining areas, inhabited by hunter-gatherers, were not subject to direct Neolithisation. However, there are some indications of contact between farmers and hunter-gatherers. This situation changed from c. 4000 BC onwards because of the formation and spectacular territorial expansion of the Funnel Beaker culture (TRB). This archaeological unit for the first time covered in a relatively compact way the territory under consideration. The human substratum of this process consisted of both hunter-gatherers and farmers. Consequently, one can discourse about Neolithisation as such only in the former case. Not all Late Mesolithic hunter-gatherers accepted TRB patterns. Those communities still successfully carried on traditional lifestyle, gradually supplementing it with pottery (para-Neolithic). Their Neolithisation ended perhaps only in the first half of the second millennium BC.
Toward Ubimus Philosophical Frameworks
Authors: Keller Damián , Aliel Luzilei , Filho Marcos Célio , Costalonga Leandro
Published: December 2021

We tackle the philosophical implications of post-2020 music practices. To situate our discussion, we address pending issues in current definitions of music-making. Our analysis indicates that post-2020 definitions of music should feature sonic information and events, framed through social interactions and through the material grounding of the musical activity. Ubiquitous music (ubimus) furnishes a promising playing field for the emerging aspects of creative music-thinking. New frameworks that encompass the dynamic, multimodal and situated characteristics of music while skewing an anthropocentric perspective on creativity may provide meaningful targets for ubimus research toward a new notion of musicality. Three artistic projects serve to exemplify key aspects of this proposal: Atravessamentos, Memory Tree and Lyapunov Time. We address the philosophical implications of these artistic endeavors toward the construction of ubimus philosophical frameworks.
Ferroptosis-associated gene SLC7A11 is upregulated in NSCLC and correlated with patient’s poor prognosis: An integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Huang He , Liu Juan , Wu Haiyan , Liu Fang , Zhou Xiaoxi
Published: December 2021

Objective

Ferroptosis is a type of programmed cell death dependent on iron and characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides, which was involved in the progression of malignant tumors including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Material/methods

Ferroptosis inhibiting gene solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) mRNA expression was investigated in the database of TCGA and Oncomine and compared between the cancer tissue and the normal corresponding tissue of NSCLC patients. SLC7A11 gene mutation of NSCLC was investigated in the TCGA database by the online data analysis tool of Catalog of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) and cBioPortal. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of SLC7A11 and associated genes were constructed with the STRING database. Gene ontology (GO) and the KEGG pathway of genes involved in the PPI network were explored and demonstrated by a bubble plot. Progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and postprogression survival (PPS) between SLC7A11high and SLC7A11low expression groups were compared and demonstrated by the survival curve.

Results

SLC7A11 mRNA was upregulated in cancer tissues compared to paired normal tissues in colorectal adenocarcinoma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma rectum adenocarcinoma and uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma. Missense and synonymous substitutions were 66.67% and 16.67% for lung squamous cell carcinoma. For lung adenocarcinoma, the missense and synonymous substitutions were 66.67% and 33.33% respectively. In the case of single nucleotide mutation, A>T, C>G, G>A, G>T for lung squamous cell carcinoma and G>T, C>A, G>A, T> for lung adenocarcinoma were the most common mutations in the SLC7A11 coding strand. Fifty-one genes were included in the PPI network with an edge number of 287, average node degree of 11.3 and local clustering coefficient of 0.694, which demonstrated that the PPI network was enriched significantly (p = 1.0 × 10−16). In terms of the KEGG pathway, the SLC7A11 and PPI-involved genes were mainly enriched in ferroptosis, NSCLC, pathways in cancer, tp53 signaling pathway, etc. The overall survival (OS) in the SLC7A11high group was significantly lower than those of SLC7A11low groups in NSCLC (HR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.02–1.31, p = 0.027). However, the progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 1.17, 95% CI: 0.97–1.42, p = 0.098) and postprogression survival (PPS) (HR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.78–1.29, p = 0.97) between SLC7A11high and SLC7A11low expression groups were not statistically different.

Conclusion

SLC7A11 was upregulated in NSCLC and correlated with the patient’s poor overall survival. SLC7A11 may be a potential target for NSCLC treatment through the ferroptosis pathway.
Determination of Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Content in Small Berries
Authors: Bellová Renata , Blahútová Dana , Culková Eva , Kubatka Peter , Tomčík Peter
Published: December 2021

The authors of this article applied the determination of phenolic and flavonoid content in small berries to create a didactic cycle based on student-centered active learning (SCAL) in which students actively participated in the topic while studying and profile-forming as future biology and chemistry teachers. The fundamental part of the proposed didactic cycle is that students solve the following task: Determine the phenolic and flavonoid content in berries (Vaccinium myrtillus L., Vaccinium vitis-idaea L., and Vaccinium corymbosum L.) in your region. The submitted interdisciplinary topic is relevant to everyday life, and it aroused interest and enthusiasm among students. The students had the opportunity to test their theoretical knowledge in practical experimental research, and they attempted to work as researchers.
Peanuts, the Immune System, and Food Safety
Authors: Zimmerman Tahl , Goetz Tim , Ibrahim Salam A.
Published: December 2021

In an age-appropriate remote learning activity developed by a researcher-teacher team, junior high school students learned about the link between human health and food safety. The students were introduced to basic concepts about the innate immune system and food safety through a learning activity that focused on peanut allergens in food products. The students (a) learned how to distinguish between the concepts of immunity and allergy; (b) learned about cross-contamination and the link between allergies and food safety; (c) learned what antibodies are and how they can be used for science; (d) applied basic knowledge about the immune system and food safety to screen for peanut residues in suspect non-peanut food products using a commercial test kit; and (e) applied basic knowledge about the immune system and food safety to create individual poster presentations on other types of allergies, such as soy or dairy allergies.
Diasporic Performativity in the Practice of Karaoke
Authors: Pascasio Luis
Published: December 2021

This study explores how karaoke serves as a spatializing practice for Filipino Americans in Chicago from which a new poetics of diaspora life is performed. Space, as argued by Lefebvre, is essentially empty but becomes occupied through visual cues animated by the gestures and actions of those who inhabit it. The spatializing potential of karaoke places everyday life as a site of discourse where music and childhood memories serve not only as objects of the past but also as cultural imaginaries that live and breathe in the present. Drawing from interviews of and engaging in participant observation with Filipino Americans in Chicago from various occupational backgrounds, this study argues that karaoke as a cultural practice is informed by a logic of diasporic performativity that locates active engagement with media as an expression of human agency. The spaces of interaction that it creates embody a reconstruction of home, identity, and community, the discursive potential of which can be as political as it is poetic. Through karaoke, perceived dichotomies between performer and spectator, immigrant and American-born, homeland and hostland are untangled creating social and emotional bonds that offer possibilities of social critique.
The Relationship Between Initial Tender and Mini-Competition: EU and Lithuanian Perspectives on Framework Agreements
Authors: Andhov Marta , Soloveičik Deividas
Published: December 2021

The article conducts a comprehensive scholarly analysis of framework agreements – a public procurement technique often used across different European jurisdictions. Besides examining the general legal framework of the EU and Lithuanian law on framework agreements, the article also examines the newest EU case law. The authors analyse the relationship between the initial tender procedure establishing the framework agreement and the subsequent mini-competition that follows under the former to award the public contract. In contrast to the Lithuanian legal regulation and related case law, the authors argue that these two stages are interconnected and must be viewed as a unified part of the same procurement process in line with European legal doctrine. Finally, the article highlights the differences between framework agreements and public contracts.
Solving Cases of Historical Justice: How Lithuanians Defended Their Tribe
Authors: Lastauskienė Giedrė
Published: December 2021

The article raises the problem of the distinction between the law and laws arising from changes in legal order or other fundamental social changes. The legal doctrine and case-law relating to cases of historical (transit) justice are examined in the context of the examples of Germany and Lithuania. Under investigation is the model of punishment of persons who collaborated with Soviet occupiers and contributed to the elimination of participants of the resistance movement, implemented in Lithuania, revealing the factors influencing the change in this model.
Procedural Aspects of Admissibility of Evidence in Criminal Proceedings
Authors: Juozapavičius Audrius , Leonaitė Erika
Published: December 2021

The article examines different models relating to procedural aspects of inadmissibility of evidence, identifies the main features and drawbacks of the Lithuanian model, and provides suggestions for its improvement.
Design of functional nanocomposites based on graphene and graphene-like materials, as well as organic conjugated polymers – promising electrode materials for supercapacitors and heterogeneous catalysts
Authors:   L.V. Pisarzhevskii Institute of Physical Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kurys Yaroslav I. , Kozarenko Olha A. ,   L.V. Pisarzhevskii Institute of Physical Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Koshechko Vyacheslav G. ,   L.V. Pisarzhevskii Institute of Physical Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Pokhodenko Vitaly D. ,   L.V. Pisarzhevskii Institute of Physical Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2021

The results obtained during the project on the development of promising functional nanocomposites based on graphene and graphene-like materials, as well as conducting polymers as active electrode materials for symmetric supercapacitors (SSC) and heterogeneous catalysts for quinoline hydrogenation are considered. Using a mechanochemical approach, nanocomposites based on polyaniline (PAni) and a number of 2D materials (nanostructured graphite – nG, molybdenum disulfide – nMoS2, tungsten disulfide – nWS2) were obtained. It was found that PAni/nG-based electrodes are able to provide the specific capacity of ~360 F/g in SSC and stability for at least 10,000 charge-discharge cycles. It is shown that PAni/nG-based SSC is able to operate at high current and the specific power of SSC can reach ~10 kW/kg at the specific energy of ~18 W∙h/kg. In the study of SSC based on nMoS2/PAni and nWS2/PAni, it was found that nanoparticles of d-metal sulfides to promote electrochemical reversibility of redox conversion in PAni at high potentials and contribute to the stability of nanocomposites during prolonged charge-discharge cycling. The specific capacity of such materials can reach 610 F/g and the specific power of SSC can reach ~4.1 kW/kg for specific energy ~23.5 W·h/kg. A number of Co-containing nanocomposites consisting of Co9S8 particles on Co,N,S-doped carbon was obtained by pyrolysis using various nanosized carbon materials and the monomer (5-aminoindole) - oxidant (ammonium persulfate) system. High catalytic activity of the obtained nanocomposites in the quinoline hydrogenation reaction was demonstrated – the yield of the target product (1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline) is from ~85-90% to almost quantitative.
Supramolecular complex of 1-methylcyclopropene with cucurbit[6]uril as efficient reagent for apples treatment
Authors:   State Scientific Institution “Institute for Single Crystals” of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Zbruyev Oleksandr I. , Pinchukova Natalia O. ,   State Scientific Institution “Institute for Single Crystals” of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Saraev Vyacheslav E. ,   State Scientific Institution “Institute for Single Crystals” of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Miasnikova Daria Yu. ,   State Scientific Institution “Institute for Single Crystals” of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Vlasenko Hanna S. ,   State Scientific Institution “Institute for Single Crystals” of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Shliapkina Yuliia V. ,   State Scientific Institution “Institute for Single Crystals” of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Yevtushenko Yevhenii V. , Chebanov Valentyn A. ,   State Scientific Institution “Institute for Single Crystals” of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2021

The study is dedicated to the development of novel techniques for the synthesis and analysis of supramolecular complex of 1-methylcyclopropene and cucurbit[6]uril, with a view of further development of new agricultural products, e.g. Oberigpro and others, for fruit and vegetable treatment. Synthetic procedures were significantly improved at all stages allowing time and feedstock saving, as well as process efficacy and ecological aspect enhancement. Robust analytical procedure for 1-methylcyclopropene assaying was developed with the use of high performance liquid chromatography and chemical derivatization of 1-methylcyclopropene. Moreover, the release of the active compound from the complex was considerably increased, and high complex stability under various conditions was shown. In general, the study performed allowed making Oberigpro one of the most effective products for practical application among the existing analogs, and paved the way for further development of new agricultural products with controlled action.
Supramolecular interactions in the mixtures of hydrophobic and hydrophilic pyrogenic silicas
Authors:   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Turov Vladimir V. , Krupska Tetyana V. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Gun'ko Vladimir M. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kartel Mykola T. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2021

In order to study the peculiarities of the interaction of hydrophobic particles with water, the binding of water in composite systems based on structurally modified mixtures of 1/1 hydrophilic (A-300) and hydrophobic (AM-1-300) silica was studied by low-temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy. It is shown that with equal amounts of hydrophobic and hydrophilic components, the dependence of the interfacial energy on the value of surface hydration has a bell-shaped appearance with a maximum at h = 3000 mg/g. The obtained dependence is explained from the point of view of restructuring of the composite system under the influence of mechanical loads and the possibility of air removal and adsorption processes in the interparticle gaps of hydrophobic and hydrophilic components, as well as the phenomenon of nanocoagulation. Increasing the concentration of the hydrophilic component does not increase the binding energy of water. Under the influence of liquid hydrophobic substances, depending on the bulk density of the composite, there may be an increase or decrease in interfacial energy. The growth is due to the restructuring of the hydrophobic and hydrophilic components (nanocoagulation), and the decrease is due to the displacement of water from the surface into pores of larger radius. For n-decane, the effect of increasing the melting temperature by several tens of degrees was registered in the interparticle gaps.
Influence of dopant on the specific features of formation and properties of nanocomposites of poly(3-methylthiophene) with polyvinylidene fluoride
Authors:   V.P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Pud Alexander A. , Ogurtsov Nikolay A. ,   V.P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kruglyak Olga S. ,   V P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2021

The work is devoted to the development and study of conducting nanocomposites of poly(3-methylthiophene) (P3MT) and poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), suitable for changing properties when interaction with of the environment components, and to find factors of influence on properties of such materials. The kinetic aspects of P3MT formation in the process of 3-methylthiophene (3MT) polymerization in PVDF dispersions in the presence of dopants of different nature, in particular, chloride (Cl-), as well as surface-active dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS-) and perfluorooctanoate (PFO-) anions are studied. It is found that DBS- and PFO- anions inhibit 3MT oxidation and decrease P3MT yield in comparison with those of chloride anions. It is shown that P3MT is formed through two consecutive kinetically different reactions of pseudo-first order in terms of the oxidant concentration. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that as a result of such polymerization nanoparticles of doped P3MT formed a surface inhomogeneous layer on PVDF particles, thus forming nanocomposite particles with core-shell morphology. Thermal studies showed higher thermal stability of the doped P3MT phase in the nanocomposite compared to the pure polymer. It is found that thermal stability of the P3MT phase in the PVDF/P3MT-DBS nanocomposites is higher than in the PVDF/P3MT-Cl. The influence of the dopant nature and content of doped P3MT on conductivity and sensitivity of the nanocomposites to vapors of harmful volatile organic compounds (acetone and isopropanol) is characterized. The strongest responses to acetone are shown by the nanocomposite with PFO- dopant. In the DBS- dopant case medium intensity responses are found and the lowest ones are observed for Cl- dopant. It is shown that the sensitivity of nanocomposites extremely depends on the conducting polymer content.