bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetic analysis of crushed venetoclax tablets combined with azacitizine for recurrent pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
Authors: Matsui Motohiro , Yasu Takeo , Makimoto Atsushi , Yuza Yuki
Published: April 2024

Background: The efficacy of a combination therapy consisting of venetoclax (VEN) and azacytidine (AZA) for newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been confirmed in elderly patients. However, the clinical data on VEN for pediatric AML are limited. A combination therapy consisting of crushed VEN tablets and AZA (VEN/AZA) was administered to two children with recurrent AML. The pharmacokinetics of VEN were then analysed.
Case Presentation: [Patient 1] A 1-year-old, male patient who experienced an AML relapse following an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation received three courses of VEN/AZA. At the initial dosage of VEN (8 mg/kg), the minimum plasma concentration (Cmin) was only 0.44 μg/ml, which was far less than the optimal Cmin of 1.2 μg/ml. Subsequent dose-escalation to 10 mg/kg only achieved Cmin 0.42 μg/ml. [Patient 2] A 3-year-old, female patient in whom infantile acute lymphoblastic leukemia was originally diagnosed experienced a recurrence in the form of AML after lineage-switching. Three courses of VEN/AZA were administered with the same therapeutic drug monitoring as in Case 1. The Cmin of VEN was 0.15 μg/ml at 8 mg/kg. Afterwards, voliconazole 16 mg/kg/day was begun for a concomitant fungal infection together with VEN 2 mg/kg. This combination finally achieved Cmin 1.14 μg/ml probably through CYP3A4 inhibition by voriconazole. In terms of safety, only grade 4 hematological adverse events were observed in both patients. In terms of efficacy, patient 1 and patient 2 achieved stable disease status for two months and six months, respectively.
Conclusion: Pediatric patients barely attain an effective plasma concentration of VEN when crushed tablets are used at the same dosage as in adults.
Is seven days enough? Comparing a 7-day exposure to the classical 21-day OECD TG 229 fish short-term reproduction assay in fathead minnow
Authors: Robitaille Julie , Desrosiers Mélanie , Veilleux Éloïse , Métivier Marianne , Guay Isabelle , Lefebvre Molly , Langlois Valerie
Published: April 2024

The OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) test guidelines (TG) 229 - fish short-term reproduction assay (FSTRA) is one of the gold standard methods used to identify endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). While informative, the FSTRA’s 5 to 6-week duration makes it difficult to use routinely. Prior studies have shown that EDCs’ impact on fecundity, vitellogenin (VTG) and steroid levels can be detected after less than one week of exposure suggesting the FSTRA could be shortened. This study compares both 7- and 21-day FSTRAs using fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) for three known EDCs: 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2; 40 ng/L), 17β-trenbolone (TRB; 50 µg/L), and propiconazole (PRP; 500 µg/L). All three compounds led to arrested fertility after 24 h of exposure, except for the 7-day EE2 treatment which still decreased reproduction. Moreover, independently of time of exposure, EE2 induced VTG production in males, and decreased estrogen levels in females and testosterone levels in males. In contrast, TRB induced VTG production in males, while the levels were not different from controls in females even though testosterone levels increased, and masculinization was observed. Finally, PRP led to a decrease in VTG levels which was only significant during the 21-day exposure, and surprisingly, no effect on steroid levels were observed despite its known effects on steroidogenesis. Apart from minor differences, both times of exposure led to similar outcomes supporting the shortening of the FSTRA to seven days. This proposed 7-day FSTRA could be used to screen EDCs in routine monitoring of environmental samples.
Implementation of the STEPPS program for the treatment of self-harm behaviors in Catalonia’s prisons: Barriers and facilitators
Authors: Lorente-Català Rosa , Jaén Irene , Busca-Huertas Xavier , Berta Framis , García-Palacios Azucena
Published: April 2024

Background
The Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS) is an evidence-based program that has been shown to be effective in reducing self-harm behaviors in Correctional Settings (CS). However, there is limited understanding of the contextual factors that impact the implementation of this intervention within such complex environments. A comprehensive understanding of the implementation process is crucial for the successful adoption of this program. This study aims to examine the factors that influence the implementation of the STEPPS program in CS, specifically regarding the management of self-harm behaviors.
Method
A hybrid implementation effectiveness type III study was conducted in penitentiary centers in Catalonia (Spain). Eight Focus Group Discussions based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) were conducted with 17 professionals who implemented the STEPPS program. Additionally, quantitative data were gathered using an open-closed questionnaire based on a CFIR questionnaire.
Results
The results indicated that the scientific evidence and knowledge acquired during the implementation process were seen as facilitators. Also, meetings and support from the external research team were considered positive factors. Conversely, implementation barriers of the STEPPS program in CS included the complexity of the intervention format and the mobility of inmates between modules and centers during the duration of the program.
Trial registration
NCT06297460 (ClinicalTrials.gov, retrospectively registered).
SARS-CoV-2 disrupts host gene networks: unveiling key hub genes as potential therapeutic targets for COVID-19 management
Authors: Marta Majewska , Maździarz Mateusz , Krawczyk Katarzyna , Paukszto Łukasz , Makowczenko Karol G. , Lepiarczyk Ewa , Lipka Aleksandra , Wiszpolska Marta , Górska Anna , Moczulska Beata , Kocbach Piotr , Sawicki Jakub , Gromadziński Leszek
Published: April 2024

Background
Although the end of COVID-19 as a public health emergency was declared on May 2023, still new cases of the infection are reported and the risk remains of new variants emerging that may cause new surges in cases and deaths. While clinical symptoms have been rapidly defined worldwide, the basic body responses and pathogenetic mechanisms acting in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection over time until recovery or death require further investigation. The understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and course of the disease is essential in designing effective preventive and therapeutic approaches, and ultimately reducing mortality and disease spreading.
Methods
The current investigation aimed to identify the key genes engaged in SARS-CoV-2 infection and uncover their molecular implication in disease severity. To achieve this goal high-throughput RNA sequencing of peripheral blood samples collected from healthy donors and COVID-19 patients was performed. The resulting sequence data were processed using a wide range of bioinformatics tools to obtain detailed modifications within five transcriptomic phenomena: expression of genes and long non-coding RNAs, alternative splicing, allel-specific expression and circRNA production. The in silico procedure was completed with a functional analysis of the identified alterations.
Results
The transcriptomic analysis revealed that SARS-CoV-2 has a significant impact on multiple genes encoding ribosomal proteins (RPs). Results show that these genes differ not only in terms of expression but also manifest biases in alternative splicing and ASE ratios. The integrated functional analysis exposed that RPs mostly affected pathways and processes related to infection—COVID-19 and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, SARS-CoV-2-host interactions and response to the virus. Furthermore, our results linked the multiple intronic ASE variants and exonic circular RNA differentiations with SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting that these molecular events play a crucial role in mRNA maturation and transcription during COVID-19 disease.
Conclusions
By elucidating the genetic mechanisms induced by the virus, the current research provides significant information that can be employed to create new targeted therapeutic strategies for future research and treatment related to COVID-19. Moreover, the findings highlight potentially promising therapeutic biomarkers for early risk assessment of critically ill patients.
Role of Plasma Fatty Acid in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Insights from a Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Han Guoge , Wei Pinghui , He Meiqin
Published: April 2024

Background
An imbalance in lipid metabolism has been linked to the development of AMD, but the causal relationship between AMD and plasma fatty acids (FAs) remains controversial. Using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach, we sought to evaluate the impact of specific FA plasma levels on various AMD subtypes’ risk.
Methods
We analysed genome-wide association data of circulating FAs from 115,006 European-descended individuals in the UK Biobank. This data was used in a two-sample MR framework to assess the potential role of circulating FAs in developing wet and dry AMD. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure the robustness of our findings. Additional multivariable and locus-specific MR analyses were conducted to evaluate FA’s direct effects on AMD subtypes, minimizing biases from lipoprotein-related traits and triglycerides.
Results
Mendelian randomization revealed associations of omega-3 was associated with decreased wet (OR 0.78, 95%CI 0.66–0.92) and dry AMD (0.85, 0.74–0.97) risk. Notably, the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio showed potential causal effects on both wet (1.27, 1.03–1.56) and dry AMD (1.18, 1.02–1.37). Multivariable MR suggested that the causal relationship of omega-3, omega-6 to omega-3 ratio on wet AMD persists after conditioning on other lipids, albeit with slightly diminished evidence strength. These results, however, did not withstand multiple testing correction and the exclusion of SNPs within the FADS locus from dry AMD samples.
Conclusions
The connections between plasma FA concentrations and AMD, suggest potential causal role of omega-3, and the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in wet AMD. These results underscore the impact of imbalanced circulating omega-3 and omega-6 FA ratio on AMD pathophysiology from MR perspective.
DDX39A: A Key Proliferation-Promoting Protein in Gastric Cancer Identified through Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Yan Jingjing , Liu Bingbing , Li Shuo , Cheng Kai , Yang Yan , Liu Mengru , Li Zhijia , Wang Han , Huo Zhongchao , Zhang Zhiwei
Published: April 2024

Purpose:Gastric cancer (GC) is a significant global health concern, with a particularly high prevalence in the southern Hebei province of China. This study aims to uncover key proteins associated with the occurrence of GC and thus provide new potential for the treatment of GC.Methods:In this study, we performed high-throughput proteomic analysis on GC and adjacent non-tumor tissues to identify abnormally expressed proteins, and then made GO enrichment, KEGG pathway and cluster analysis. Differentially expressed proteins were further screened and validated by parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) test, including DDX39A et al. Using immunohistochemistry (IHC), we examined DDX39A's expression and its clinical relevance in GC. We then knocked down DDX39A in AGS and MKN-74 cell lines using shRNA technology, and investigated the effects of DDX39A knockdown on cell proliferation and cell cycle progression using CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry assay.Result:In our proteomic analysis of GC tissues, 569 proteins were differentially expressed, with 248 up-regulated and 321 down-regulated. GO enrichment, KEGG pathway, and cluster analysis linked them to key pathways like cell proliferation and immune response.Nine promising proteins were screened by proteomics analysis and validated using PRM, DDX39A was recognized as the critical functional protein. IHC further demonstrated DDX39A was high expressed in GC, and its expression was correlated with N stage and TNM stage. The knockdown of DDX39A significantly reducing the proliferation and survival of GC cell lines, as confirmed by RT-qPCR and Western blot. Additionally, cell cycle analysis showed an increase in the G1 phase and a decrease in the S phase after knockdown. That highlighted DDX39A's critical role in GC cell cycle regulation and growth.Conclusion:In this study, a series of differentially expressed proteins were successfully identified using proteomic analysis, and DDX39A was identified as a key proliferation-promoting protein in GC. DDX39A is potential to be a therapeutic target for GC and further research into it would be worthwhile.
Consumer Behaviour: Impact of Social and Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Santoso Singgih
Published: April 2024

Sustainability, along with the increasing importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is collectively a booming phenomenon in good economic development. SDGs describe a universal agenda that applies and must be implemented by all countries, and Indonesia is adopting and implementing the SDG concept to achieve it by 2030. To implement SDGs in Indonesia, there are three challenges that must be faced, namely, communication strategies to the community, financing for implementing SDG programs, and strategies for preparing regions to adopt SDGs in each city. One of the efforts currently being intensified by consumers in Indonesia is consumer concern for the sustainability of the environment where they live. To date, there is still little empirical research in Indonesia about how far consumers care about the environment and their perceptions of green products. By knowing their perceptions and behaviours related to green products, companies and governments will be able to formulate appropriate strategies. The purpose of this research is to determine the impact of social sustainability and environmental sustainability on brand reputation, brand trust, and ultimately purchase intention. Using survey methods and purposive random sampling techniques to collect respondents, 196 respondents in the Special Region of Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia, were given a questionnaire on the respondents’ opinions of the five construct variables above. After applying the structural equation modelling technique, goodness of fit tests and structural relationship hypothesis tests were carried out. The results show that social sustainability affects brand reputation, but environmental sustainability does not significantly influence brand reputation. Brand Reputation positively and significantly affects Brand Trust, and ultimately, Brand Trust significantly influences Purchase Intention. The implication of this research is the need for companies to be aware of social problems in developing countries and develop strategies that pay more attention to workers, social conditions in society, and decent wages so that consumer attitudes can become more positive towards green products and their support for the SDGs becomes more real.
Traditional Mechanisms of Culture Transmission at the Present State of Society
Authors: Romanovskii G. A.
Published: April 2024

The article is aimed at describing the current state and role in modern culture of the main traditional mechanisms for transmitting culture, preserving cultural memory and passing it on to next generations (customs, rituals, traditions, religion, myth, folklore, art, education, family). The research was carried out on the basis of systemic, activity-based, integration, historical approaches, methods of historical analysis, structural-functional, and axiological approach. It has been revealed that traditional mechanisms of cultural transmission continue to play a vital role in the modern cultural space. At the same time, their transformation, observed at the present time, reflects objective trends in the development of society and civilization as a whole, their accelerated development. Culture exists as a combination of traditional and innovative; it cannot be static and is constantly evolving. The problem is the reaction of a number of representatives of the scientific community to the modification of cultural instruments. The dynamics of social and cultural development in recent decades have become more obvious than before, which has caused a number of researchers to desire to go back and revive the traditional mechanisms of cultural transmission. The unity of traditional and innovative mechanisms for transmitting culture is a ground for its positive development.
Preservation and Development of Russian Language: challenges and prospects for development
Authors: Vozzhenikov A. V. , Vasiliev I. V.
Published: April 2024

The paper is based on an analysis of media and is devoted to the problem of preserving the purity of the Russian language in connection with the preservation of identity and the cultivation of patriotism. The authors identify the connection between the formation and development of language as a factor in the consolidation of the country’s multinational population with cultural and political processes, educational and cultural policies, as well as processes of ensuring internal and external security. The authors draw attention to the low efficiency of mechanisms and tools for implementing state language policy, and formulate proposals for the preservation and development of the Russian language as a factor. The used methods include participant and non-participant observation, document analysis and content analysis. The publication is of interest to cultural, political scientists and to all readers involved into Russian language, history and culture.
Hydrovars: an R tool to collect hydrological variables
Authors: Sánchez-Gómez Alejandro , Bieger Katrin , Schürz Christoph , Martínez-Pérez Silvia , Rathjens Hendrik , Molina-Navarro Eugenio
Published: April 2024

Hydrological models can benefit from soft calibration, a process by which the proper simulation of hydrological variables is proved while or before addressing hard calibration. Soft calibration reduces the probability of obtaining a statistically accurate but unrealistic model. However, it requires soft data, which is often hard to acquire or unavailable. This work presents HydRoVars, an R tool developed to facilitate the estimation of data which can be implemented in a soft calibration procedure. It allows us to estimate two key hydrological indices (the runoff coefficient and baseflow index) and weather-related variables at the catchment scale for one or numerous basins. The runoff coefficient is calculated automatically from precipitation and streamflow datasets. Groundwater contribution is estimated through a semi-automatic process based on a baseflow filter which considers hydrogeological properties. Modellers would benefit from incorporating soft calibration in their calibration procedures, and this tool might help to estimate these relevant hydrological variables in their modelled area. The tool has been tested in 19 subbasins of the Tagus River basin (Spain) located in different geological regions. In the test cases, we demonstrate the usefulness of this tool to improve the model representation and gain an understanding of the catchments' hydrology.
Chemically modified cellulose nanomaterial for remediation of nickel and lead from secondary runoff industrial wastewater
Authors: Kara Hizkeal Tsade , Murthy H. C. Ananda , Kumar T. Naveen , Ravikumar C. R.
Published: April 2024

An innovative and chemically amended succinic anhydride cellulose nanomaterial (S-CNM) adsorbent was synthesized from dried stem of Eichhornia crassipes weed, and was characterized for functional groups, crystallite size, surface morphology, morphological structure and particle size using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) instruments, respectively. Previously characterized S-CNM was investigated to eliminate nickel and lead from secondary runoff wastewater (SERWW). Physicochemical properties of SERWW including organic matter (OM), nutrients, total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) and total phosphorus (TP) on the elimination capabilities of heavy metals were investigated. The S-CNM adsorbent was used fruitfully to exclude nickel and lead from SERWW. The mechanism study showed that the Langmuir isotherm was suited for lead removal and Freundlich isotherm was suited for nickel removal with maximum eliminating capability (qmax) of 156.25 and 60.24 mg g−1 using the S-CNM adsorbent, respectively. The elimination kinetic process fits well with pseudo-second-order and its data recommending the materials (S-CNM) are effective for wastewater treatment. The lead and nickel uptake capacities were influenced by the presence of positively charged ions. The S-CNM adsorbent indicated excellent reproducibility and was considered as a capable adsorption resource to eliminate lead and nickel from SERWW.
Assessment of rainfall-derived inflow and infiltration in sewer systems with machine learning approaches
Authors: Wang Yong , Huang Biao , Zhu David Z.
Published: April 2024

Rainfall-derived inflow/infiltration (RDII) modelling during heavy rainfall events is essential for sewer flow management. In this study, two machine learning algorithms, random forest (RF) and long short-term memory (LSTM), were developed for sewer flow prediction and RDII estimation based on field monitoring data. The study implemented feature engineering for extracting physically significant features in sewer flow modelling and investigated the importance of the relevant features. The results from two case studies indicated the superior capability of machine learning models in RDII estimation in the combined and separated sewer systems, and LSTM model outperformed the two models. Compared to traditional methods, machine learning models were capable of simulating the temporal variation in RDII processes and improved prediction accuracy for peak flows and RDII volumes in storm events.
Synthesis and In-Silico Studies of Ortho-Fluorinated Benzenesulfonamides as Putative Anti-CETP Agents
Authors: Abu Khalaf Reema , Jaradat Lama , Habash Maha
Published: April 2024

Cardiovascular disease is one of the primary causes of death. Atherosclerosis
produces artery constriction or obstruction, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Cholesteryl
Ester Transfer Protein (CETP) is a protein that aids in reverse cholesterol transport.
It promotes cholesteryl ester transfer from HDL to LDL and VLDL. So, inhibition of CETP
by drugs limits cardiovascular disease by decreasing LDL and increasing HDL cholesterol.
In this study, ten ortho-fluoro substituted benzenesulfonamides 6a-6j were prepared, and
their structure was fully determined using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HR-MS, and IR. In vitro
biological evaluation showed that compound 6d has the highest inhibitory activity with
100% inhibition, while compounds 6a-6c and 6e-6j had activities ranged from 29% - 83%
at 10 μM concentration. Interestingly, para-substituted derivatives (6d, 6g, and 6j) were
observed to have greater CETP inhibitory activities than their ortho- and meta- analogues irrespective to the
nature of substituent, i.e., CH3, Cl, or NO2. Ligandfit docking experiment revealed the difference in the binding
mode among the synthesized compounds, which is reflected in their CETP inhibitory activity.
Feasibility of Amide Proton Transfer-weighted Imaging at 3T for Renal Masses:
A Preliminary Study
Authors: Xu Yun , Wan Qingxuan , Ren Xihui , Jiang Yutao , Yao Jing , WU Peng , Shen Aijun , Wang Peijun
Published: April 2024

Background::

To investigate the optimal B1,rms value of renal amide proton transfer-weighted (APTw) images and the reproducibility of this value, and to explore
the utility of APT imaging of renal masses and kidney tissues.

Methods::

APTw images with different B1,rms values were repeatedly recorded in 15 healthy volunteers to determine the optimal value. Two 4-point Likert
scales (poor [1] to excellent [4]) were used to evaluate contour clarity and artifacts in masses and normal tissues. The APTw values of masses and
normal tissues were then compared in evaluable images (contour clarity score > 1, artifacts score > 1). The APTw of malignant masses, normal
tissues, and benign masses were calculated and compared with the Mann-Whitney U test

Results::

The optimal scanning parameter of B1,rms was 2 μT, and the APTw images had good agreement in the volunteers. Our study of APTw imaging
examined 70 renal masses (13 benign, 57 malignant) and 49 normal kidneys (including those from 15 healthy volunteers). The mean APTw value
for renal malignant masses (2.28(1.55)) was different from that for benign masses (0.91(1.30)) (P<0.001), renal cortex (1.30 (1.25)) (P<0.001),
renal medulla (1.64 (1.33)) (P<0.05), and renal pelvis (5.49 (2.65)) (P<0.001).

Conclusion::

These preliminary data demonstrate that APTw imaging of the kidneys has potential use as an imaging biomarker for the differentiation of normal
tissues, malignant masses, and benign masses.
Current Insights into the Neurotoxicity of Melamine: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Naeimi Reza , Safarpour Fatemeh , Askari Hamid , Ghasemi-Kasman Maryam
Published: April 2024

:

Melamine, a heterocyclic nitrogen-rich triazine chemical compound, is widely used in various
household products, including furniture, dinnerware, and kitchen appliances. The unauthorized
addition of the mixture to various foodstuffs to misrepresent protein content resulted in catastrophic,
frequently life-threatening health consequences for kids as well as canines and has garnered international
attention. Numerous primary studies and evaluations have been focused on melamine toxicity's
implications on kidney function. Despite the profusion of literature on melamine's nephrotoxicity, evidence
regarding its toxicity to other organs remains scarce. A number of recent studies suggest melamine
can disrupt central nervous system (CNS) function and bring about cognitive impairments, contradicting
the commonly held belief that melamine's detrimental effects are limited to the urinary system.
The accumulation of melamine in the body is linked to various adverse effects, including depression,
impaired synaptic transmission, oxidative stress, and neurodegenerative diseases. Several mechanisms
may lead to such complications. However, numerous safeguards against melamine accumulation
have been identified. This review could shed light on the potential neurological effects and mechanisms
underlying melamine toxicity. Afterward, we will dive into the body's possible protective
mechanisms against melamine-induced toxicity.
Deceptively Simple yet Profoundly Impactful: Text Messaging Interventions to Support Health (Preprint)
Authors: Suffoletto Brian
Published: April 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

This paper examines the use of text message (SMS) interventions for health-related behavioral support. It first outlines the historical progress in SMS intervention research publications and the variety of funds from US government agencies. A narrative review follows, highlighting the effectiveness of SMS interventions in key health areas, such as physical activity, diet and weight loss, mental health, and substance use, based on published meta-analyses. It then outlines advantages of text messaging compared to other digital modalities, including the real-time capability to collect information and deliver microdoses of intervention support. Crucial design elements are proposed to optimize effectiveness and longitudinal engagement across communication strategies, psychological foundations, and behavior change tactics. We then discuss advanced functionalities, such as the potential for generative artificial intelligence to improve user interaction. Finally, major challenges to implementation are highlighted, including the absence of a dedicated commercial platform, privacy and security concerns with SMS technology, difficulties integrating SMS interventions with medical informatics systems, and concerns about user engagement. Proposed solutions aim to facilitate the broader application and effectiveness of SMS interventions. Our hope is that these insights can assist researchers and practitioners in using SMS interventions to improve health outcomes and reducing disparities.
Xuanzang’s Theory “Transliteration for Five Occasions” In Religious and Cultural Loanwords Translation
Authors: Shen Huijia
Published: April 2024

Monk Xuanzang, a great translator in the Tang Dynasty in China, once put forward the famous Buddhist sutra translation theory of “transliteration for five occasions”, that is, transliteration for mystery, for polysemy, for non-existence, for following the past and for respect. This article explains the connotation and limits of this theory, and comprehensively reveals its guiding role in the translation of religious and cultural loanwords as well as the important role in promoting the development of Chinese translation theory.
The Experiences of Students in the Modular and Online Learning: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: M. Cortes Venus , C. Omongos May Gaselle , G. Quevedo Jerry Mae , Villarin Michelle , J. Yaun Karlene Kate , V. Segarra Marry Mael
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to determine the specific experiences of university students in terms of cognitive, social, emotional, and adversity skills in an online or modular mode of learning. The study utilized a phenomenology research design, and a semi-structured interview was conducted. Participants in the study were composed of students enrolled in online and modular learning who were asked to share their experiences elaborately. The analysis revealed that despite the differences in the learning modalities, the students similarly experienced the same significant adjustments and academic challenges. These experiences include the lack or limited access to information, concerns about the accessibility of the learning opportunities, lack of economic resources, time management concerns, communication with professors and classmates, and self-motivation and coping mechanisms. As an intended outcome, a feasible distance learning blueprint composed of possible courses of action that can be taken to achieve a more effective and feasible distance learning setup is made.
A matrioska de instrumentos urbanísticos nos Projetos de Intervenção Urbana em São Paulo
Authors: Gueresi Simone
Published: April 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar os arranjos de governança e a participação social em um Projeto de Intervenção Urbana (PIU), instrumento urbanístico previsto no Plano Diretor de São Paulo (SP) de 2014, e seu impacto em territórios populares. Apresenta-se neste texto o estudo de caso de duas Zonas Especiais de Interesse Social (ZEIS) situadas no perímetro do PIU Arco Jurubatuba, na zona sul da cidade. As questões que orientaram o trabalho foram: (i) como se deu a participação das comunidades desses territórios populares nas discussões sobre o projeto de intervenção que as afetaria; e (ii) qual o arranjo de governança resultante da proposta, considerando a sobreposição de instrumentos dentro do PIU. Evidencia-se que os arranjos institucionais e os instrumentos selecionados para elaboração e futura implementação do PIU aumentam a complexidade do projeto, a fragmentação do processo e a superficialidade dos procedimentos de participação e legitimação da intervenção. Escolhas feitas durante a elaboração do PIU e a matrioska de instrumentos resultante dificultam a identificação do momento e do lócus de tomada de decisões cruciais sobre a intervenção que atinge os territórios populares, prejudicando a participação social e adiando (ou impedindo) contestações.
On the Boyarsky-Meyers estimate for the solution of the Dirichlet problem for a second-order linear elliptic equation with drift
Authors: Alkhutov Yu. A. , Chechkin G. A.
Published: April 2024

We establish the increased integrability of the gradient of the solution to the Dirichlet problem for the Laplace operator with lower terms and prove the unique solvability of this problem.
La arquitectura del cíborg: una mirada transhumanista integradora e inclusiva
Authors: Restrepo-Pineda Andrés Felipe
Published: April 2024

La arquitectura del cíborg explora la convergencia entre biología y tecnología, fusionando elementos biológicos con componentes electrónicos para mejorar capacidades humanas. Este artículo busca comprender las transformaciones en los cuerpos, destacando el papel transformador de la inteligencia artificial (IA) en nuestra relación con el mundo físico y digital. Desde dispositivos portátiles hasta implantes biomédicos, la IA ha influido en cómo percibimos, controlamos y mejoramos nuestros cuerpos. Se exploran transformaciones y su impacto en la sociedad y la experiencia humana en la era de la IA. Cada cuerpo, en el contexto sociocultural, es trascendental y sujeto a cambios con prótesis aumentadas que afectan la apariencia y las identidades. En la actualidad, el cuerpo ha sido objeto de debate teórico, abordando conceptos como mentalidad y cosmovisión, con un enfoque materialista. Los imaginarios sociales urbanos cobran importancia en las comunidades, alterando la estética y transformando existentes. La hermenéutica analógica se utiliza como metodología sociológica para analizar transfiguraciones en la identidad humana y la hibridación corporal mediante tecnologías que cambian paradigmas tecnocientíficos. Este enfoque busca entender el avance y sus implicaciones en la sociedad contemporánea.
Pore Structure Manipulation Enhanced Sodium Storage of Calcium-lignosulfonate-based Hard Carbon
Authors: Gou Yunfei , Bai Lixin , Ma Yandong , Qi Yuruo , Xu Maowen , Kong Lingbin
Published: April 2024

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have attracted a lot of attention owing to
the low cost, as well as similar working mechanism and manufacturing
technique with Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the practical
application of SIBs is severely hindered by limited electrode materials.
Disordered carbons are reported to be promising as anode materials for
SIBs. Here, for the first time, calcium lignosulfonate (LSCa), one
papermaking waste, is explored as a novel low-cost precursor for carbon
materials of SIBs. The optimized LSCa-derived carbon delivers a high
reversible capacity of 317 mA h g at 30 mA g
with ~ 60% plateau capacity and it
retains a capacity of 170 mA h g even at 3000 mA g
. These achievements are ascribed to the larger d
value, smaller defects and more closed pores,
compared to the original sample from the direct carbonization of LSCa.
Optimizing Chitosan Derived from White Shrimp (Metapenaeus affinis): A Novel Approach to Inhibit Biofilm Formation and Quorum Sensing in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Riahi Anali , Tajbakhsh Elahe , Mabudi Hadideh , Roomiani Laleh , Momtaz Hassan
Published: April 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a commonly found Gram-negative bacterium in
healthcare facilities and is renowned for its ability to form biofilms
and its virulence factors that are controlled by quorum sensing (QS)
systems. The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains of
this bacterium poses a significant challenge in the field of medicine.
Consequently, the exploration of novel antimicrobial agents has become a
top priority. This research aims to optimize chitosan derived from white
shrimp (Metapenaeus affinis) using the Response Surface Methodology
computational approach. The objective is to investigate chitosan’s
potential as a solution for inhibiting QS activity and biofilm formation
in P. aeruginosa ATCC 10145. Under optimized conditions, chitin treated
(NaOH: 1.41 M) for 15.75 hours, HCl (7.49% vol) for 2.01 hours, at a
deacetylation temperature of 81.15 °C. Resulting chitosan exhibited a
degree of deacetylation exceeding 93.98%, as confirmed by
Fourier-transform infrared spectral analysis, indicating its high
purity. The extracted chitosan demonstrated a significant synergistic
antibiotic effect against P. aeruginosa when combined with ceftazidime,
enhancing its bactericidal activity by up to 15-fold. In addition,
sub-MIC concentrations of extracted chitosan (10 and 100 μg/mL)
successfully reduced the production of pyocyanin and rhamnolipid, as
well as the swimming motility, protease activity and biofilm formation
in comparison to the control group. Moreover, chitosan treatment
downregulated the RhlR and LasR genes in P. aeruginosa when compared to
the control group (P<0.05). The optimized chitosan extract
shows significant potential as a coating agent for surgical equipment,
effectively preventing nosocomial infections caused by P. aeruginosa
pathogens.
Modulation of anticipatory brain activity as a function of action complexity
Authors: Casella Andrea , Bello BiancaMaria Di , Aydin Merve , Lucia Stefania , Russo Francesco Di , Pitzalis Sabrina
Published: April 2024

Stimulus-driven actions are preceded by preparatory brain activity that
can be expressed by event-related potentials (ERP). Literature on this
topic has mainly focused on simple actions, such as the finger keypress,
finding activity in frontal, parietal, and occipital areas detectable up
to two seconds before the stimulus onset. However, little is known about
the preparatory brain activity when the action complexity increases, and
specific brain areas designated to achieve movement integration
intervene. The main aim of this paper is to identify the time course of
preparatory brain activity associated with actions of increasing
complexity using ERP analysis and a visuomotor discrimination task.
Motor complexity was manipulated by asking nineteen volunteers to
provide their response by simply pressing a key or by adding to the
keypress arm extensions (reaching) alone, or in combination with a
standing step (involving the whole body). Results showed that these
actions of increasing levels of complexity appear to be associated with
different patterns of preparatory brain activity. Specifically, the
simple keypress was characterized by the largest motor excitatory
preparation in premotor areas paralleled by the largest prefrontal
inhibitory/attentional control. Reaching presented a dominant parietal
preparation confirming the role of these integration areas in reaching
actions toward a goal. Stepping was characterized by localized activity
in the bilateral dorsomedial parieto-occipital areas attributable to
sensory readiness, for the approaching stimulus. In conclusion, the
brain is able to optimally anticipate any stimulus-driven action
modulating the activity in the brain areas specialized in the
preparation of that action type.
Mathematical modeling as a tool in kombucha beverages bioactive quality control
Authors: Vitas Jasmina , Jokic Aleksandar , Lukic Natasa , Vukmanovic Stefan , Malbasa Radomir
Published: April 2024

This study examined the application of mathematical models on total
flavonoids content and sensory mark of kombucha beverages on winery
effluent. Process parameters were as follows: 0, 3, 6 and 9 days of
fermentation time; 20, 25 and 30 ?C of fermentation temperature and 3, 5 and
7% of initial total reducing sugars. Total flavonoids were determined
spectrophotometrically and sensory mark by a descriptive test and five
points category scale. Total flavonoids content decreased during the applied
kombucha fermentation process, which lasted for 9 days. On average, total
sensory mark suggested that consume kombucha products are obtained after 3
days of the fermentation, regardless on the fermentation temperature or
sugars content. In order to produce kombucha beverage with the highest
bioactive quality, response surface methodology proposed the following
process parameters: 3 days of fermentation, 7% of initial total sugars and
30?C process temperature.
Amanita vidua: A new record for Turkish Amanita Section Phalloideae based on morphological and molecular data
Authors: Akata Ilgaz , Kumru Eda , Sahin Ergin , Acar İsmail , Kaya Ertuğrul
Published: April 2024

In the present study, fungal specimens collected from Yeşildere village in Uşak province, Türkiye were evaluated. The specimens underwent detailed examination through both mor-phological and DNA (nrITS rDNA region and TEF1a gene) sequence-based phylogenetic analysis. Based on the evaluation of micro- and macromorphological characteristics, and phylogenetic analyses, the specimen was identified as A. vidua Gasch, G. Moreno & P.-A. Moreau. This identification marks A. vidua as a new record for the Turkish Amanita section Phalloideae. The study described this newly recorded species, including specific details such as its location, habitat observations, geographical coordinates, collection date, and pho-tographs showcasing its macro and micromorphological features. Additionally, it also in-cludes illustrations of some microscopic structures of the species. The study is further en-riched with SEM images, offering a detailed view of the species characteristics, and the findings are briefly discussed.
Didactic tools as a condition for retraining welders on the basis of the training center of the enterprise
Authors: Ильина Наталья Николаевна , Ульяшин Николай Иванович
Published: April 2024

Представлены методологические обоснования применения дидактического инструментария в качестве ведущего средства, формирующего мотивационную, познавательную и профессиональную деятельность рабочих на предприятии в условиях учебного центра производства. Определена теоретическая значимость изучаемой проблемы в теории и практике профессиональной подготовки рабочих в сфере сварочного производства. Уточнены понятия «внутрифирменное обучение», «внутрифирменная подготовка», «подготовка в условиях предприятия». Обосновано наполнение дидактического инструментария как категории вспомогательного средства для проведения учебно-производственных занятий в условиях учебного центра ОАО «Нижнетагильский металлургический комбинат» с позиции внутрифирменной подготовки.

Methodological substantiations of the use of didactic tools as a leading tool that forms the motivational, cognitive and professional activities of workers at the enterprise in the conditions of a production training center are presented. The theoretical significance of the studied problem in the theory and practice of professional training of workers in the field of welding production is determined. The concepts of “in-house training”, “in-house training”, “training in the conditions of the enterprise” are clarified. It is reasonable to fill didactic tools as a category of auxiliary means for conducting training and production classes in the conditions of the training center of JSC “Nizhnetagilsky Metallurgical Combine” from the position of in-house training. In the current situation, continuous development becomes one of the priority processes for the country. Standards are changing at a high rate, new equipment and new technologies are emerging, such processes require constant development in the field of human qualifications. A high-tech enterprise requires qualified employees, but it should be understood that after a while their qualifications will again be insufficient. At the present stage of industrial training according to the retraining programs of workers, modern information carriers are introduced in the theory and practice of teaching special courses. Currently, the main part of educational and teaching materials, including the text part of lecture materials, literary sources, illustrations, graphs, flowcharts, tables, diagrams, instructional and instructional-technological maps, practical cases.
Features of professional training of foreign specialists at a medical university
Authors: Сидоркина Кира Сергеевна
Published: April 2024

В связи с увеличением количества иностранных студентов, поступающих в российские медицинские вузы, возрастает необходимость модернизации образовательного процесса с применением методов, приемов, техник обучения, наиболее эффективных для усвоения, понимания и запоминания изучаемого материала, а также формирования и развития общепрофессиональных и профессиональных компетенций будущих врачей с учетом специфики образовательного процесса в медицинском вузе и национально-психологических особенностей иностранных студентов. Цель статьи – выявление специфики преподавания профильных медицинских дисциплин иностранным студентам и разработка рекомендаций для преподавателей по организации процесса обучения иностранных студентов-медиков профильным медицинским дисциплинам, упорядочивание основных методов, приемов, техник обучения иностранных студентов таким профильным медицинским дисциплинам, как анатомия человека, биологическая химия, факультетская терапия, фармакология, микробиология и вирусология, травматология и ортопедия, инфекционные заболевания. В статье скомпонованы основные методы, приемы, техники, используемые при обучении иностранных студентов профильным медицинским дисциплинам как на русском языке, так и на языке-посреднике, направленным на формирование и развитие их общепрофессиональных и профессиональных компетенций: анатомия человека, биологическая химия, факультетская терапия, фармакология, микробиология и вирусология, травматология и ортопедия, инфекционные заболевания.

Due to the expansion in the number of international students entering Russian medical universities, there is an increasing need to modernize the educational process using methods, techniques and technologies that are most effective for learning, understanding and memorizing the studied material, as well as the formation and development of general professional and professional competencies of future doctors, taking into account the specificity of the educational process at a medical university and national psychological characteristics of foreign students. The purpose of the article is to identify the specificity of teaching principal medical subjects to foreign students and recommendations for teachers on the organization of the process of teaching foreign medical students principal medical subjects, ordering the basic methods, techniques and technologies of teaching foreign students to such principal medical subjects as human anatomy, biological chemistry, intermediate level therapy, pharmacology, microbiology and virology, traumatology and orthopedics, infectious diseases. The article summarizes the main methods, techniques and technologies used in teaching foreign students basic medical subjects both in Russian and in an intermediary language, aimed at the formation and development of their general professional and professional competencies.
Late diagnosis of Bowenoid in situ carcinoma in two cats: the importance of identifying mild and superficial lesions
Authors: Martins Nadiene Alves , Moraes Reiner Silveira de , Romani Alana Flávia , Araujo Gustavo Henrique Marques , Cagnini Didier Quevedo
Published: April 2024

Cutaneous neoplasms have a significant representation in the casuistry of neoplasms in felines, emphasizing squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Thus, clinical knowledge is necessary for the correct diagnostic and curative approach to the patient. This study aimed to report two cases of late diagnosis of Bowenoid carcinoma in adult cats (> one year) admitted at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the Federal University of Jataí in order to collaborate with the existing literature and help veterinarians in the knowledge of associated lesions. At macroscopy in the hospital admission, both cats presented lesions on the head in the bilateral supraorbital frontal region that slowly evolved into erosions and crusted ulcers with purulent exudation, in addition to lesions in the perilabial region (case 1). In microscopy, findings revealed Bowenoid carcinoma in situ. Supraorbital lesions revealed the abrupt formation of epidermal plaques, including follicular infundibulum continuous with the acanthotic epidermis with loss of normal stratification. Focal orthokeratosis and marked atypia of keratinocytes (macrokaryosis, macronucleosis, macrocytosis, anisokaryosis, and anisocytosis) were also observed. Early diagnosis through clinical analysis combined with histopathological evaluation is of fundamental importance to ensure therapeutic success, improving the patient’s prognosis, a condition not achieved in the cases presented mainly due to late diagnosis.