bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microsatellite Markers Establishment for African Elemi (Canarium schweinfurthii Engl., Burseraceae), a Africa Prominent Wild Fruit-Bearing Forest Tree
Authors: ADJI Beda Innocent , Sène Marie Honorine , Chakocha Armel Franklin , Zerbo Guibien Cléophas , Tientcheu Marie Louise Avana , Mariac Cédric , Duminil Jérôme Duminil 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Premise of the study :
Commonly known as Aiélé (in French) or African Elemi (in English), Canarium schweinfurthii (Burseraceae) is an important and remarkable large native food tree of Africa. This species is highly valued by woodworkers for its superior timber quality and by rural communities for its fruits and medicinal properties. Despite its socio-economic and cultural importance, the distribution of its genetic diversity, a key factor for its conservation, has never been studied or documented. The aim of this work is to develop and make available molecular markers for assessing the genetic diversity and population structure of the African Elemi, which are necessary information tools for its conservation and sustainable management.
Methods and results
In this context, 18,079 nuclear microsatellite markers extracted from Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of a genomic library were validated and characterized. Thirteen markers were polymorphic and were further tested on 98 individuals from four populations across three African countries (Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso). The number of alleles per locus varied from 6 to 29, with an average of 16.54 ± 7.81. Within populations, the expected mean heterozygosity (HE) ranged from 0.500 to 0.805 depending on the loci, with an average of 0.705 ± 0.140. Meanwhile, observed mean heterozygosity (HO) varied from 0.560 to 0.684, averaging 0.643 ± 0.060 across loci. The mean FIS coefficient per population for each locus ranged from 0.093 to 0.270, with an average of 0.165 ± 0.070.
Conclusions
Given their high polymorphism, the 13 nuclear microsatellite markers developed here can be utilized to study gene flow, the spatial distribution of genetic diversity, and population structure in C. schweinfurthii across Africa, as well as to contribute to its conservation.
Persistence of persulfate in karst groundwater and its influencing factors
Authors: Yan Xue , Chen Yudao , Li Weixuan , Tang Dongbo , Du Liu , Yang Wei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Persulfate (S2O82-, PS) is a new type of oxidant used for in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) during the remediation of contaminated groundwater. However, PS may be consumed by nontarget matters in aquifers, decreasing its persistence and remediation effect. To better understand the persistence of PS in widely distributed karst aquifers, microcosm, column, and conduit experiments were carried out in this study to simulate karst caves, fracture zones, and conduit environments under static or flow water conditions. Karst aquifer matters, including limestone and lime soil, and a novel carbonate rock conduit model were employed. PS decomposition at different concentrations, influencing factors, and hydro-chemical responses were discussed. The results of the study indicate that (1) In static water, the half-lives of 1, 8, and 20 g/L of PS in limestone media were 102, 185, and 202 d, respectively, and 19, 34, and 51 d in lime soil media, respectively. As the injection concentration increased, the persistence of PS also increased. The half-life range of PS in limestone column and conduit was 0.05 ~ 0.13 d and 0.36 ~ 1.70 d, respectively, indicating that PS exhibited poor persistence under flowing karst water conditions. (2) The pH remained at neutral to slightly alkaline levels in limestone media, which buffered the acidizing effect of high PS concentration. When PS concentrations were 8 and 20 g/L, the organic matter content in lime soils decreased from an initial 45.57 g/Kg to 35.07 and 24.63 g/Kg, respectively. The rich organic matters in lime soils greatly consumed PS with a rapid degradation rate constants of 20.31 and 13.47d-1, respectively. (3) The decomposition of PS led to obvious hydro-chemical responses under static groundwater conditions. The pH values dropped to a minimum of 1.4 and the dissolved oxygen concentration increased from 8.5 to 17.3 mg/L in the absence of solid media. When the limestone media were present, PS injection at the concentration of 20 g/L stimulated the dissolution of carbonate, producing Ca2+ concentration 8–10 times higher than the background value. However, the hydro-chemical changes remained relatively stable under flowing karst water conditions.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Cognitive Radio Networks: Addressing the Challenges of Rapid Spectrum Utilization
Authors: Raghavendra Y M , M Asha , Manjula G , M Latha , Sindgi Anupama , Bhagyashree S R 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The rapid increase in wireless communication demand has posed significant challenges to energy efficiency within cognitive radio networks. These networks, designed to enhance spectrum utilization by dynamically accessing underutilized frequency bands, face the critical concern of balancing effective spectrum use with energy consumption. This paper explores innovative strategies for enhancing energy efficiency in cognitive radio networks amid the complexities introduced by rapid spectrum utilization. We examine the impact of advanced resource allocation methods, including cooperative spectrum sensing and task distribution among multiple users, which facilitate optimal spectrum sharing while minimizing energy usage. The integration of energy harvesting techniques is discussed as a means to supplement the power requirements of cognitive radio devices, promoting sustainability in network operations. The performance parameters are analysed for 1 to 5000 number of users and bandwidth of total bandwidth of 100 MHz. Simulation results reveal that with an increasing number of users, throughput rises significantly from 1.2 Mbps for one user to 4,500 Mbps for 5,000 users, while energy efficiency peaks at 2.3 bps/J for 1,000 users before declining to 1.5 bps/J at maximum capacity. Spectrum utilization increases steadily from 0.00012–0.45%, and latency escalates from 0.05 ms to 3.00 ms with the user count. Packet delivery ratio (PDR) decreases from 97–80%, and quality of service (QoS) initially improves to 0.92 before slightly declining to 0.85 under peak conditions. These results demonstrate that the proposed frameworks not only reduce energy consumption but also enhance data throughput and overall system performance in cognitive radio networks.
Biosynthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles from piper nigrum leaf Extract and their enhanced antioxidant, antibacterial, and enzyme Inhibition Activities
Authors: Akram Hajra , Tariq Ammar , Khalid Ayesha , Saddique Iqra , Haq Sirajul , khan Ashfaq Ahmad 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In recent years, the use of eco-friendly and sustainable methods for synthesizing nanoparticles has gained significant attention due to environmental concerns associated with conventional chemical approaches. This study explores the preparation of nickel oxide (NiO) NPs using Piper nigrum leaf extract sourced from Muzaffarabad Azad Kashmir, Pakistan a novel and environmentally benign approach. These NPs were studied using various techniques to determine their morphology, size, and structural properties. Furthermore, the biological activity of the freshly prepared NPs was evaluated, focusing on their inhibitory effect on alpha-amylase, a key enzyme related to diabetes management. The NPs exhibited excellent antioxidant properties, with a peak scavenging activity of 78% at 80 µg/mL, and an IC50 value of 28 µg/mL. In alpha-amylase inhibition assays, NiO NPs demonstrated significant enzyme inhibition with an IC50 of 1.18 µg/mL. Antibacterial tests revealed strong activity against Gram-positive bacteria, with peak inhibition zones of 18 mm for Streptococcus pyogenes and 13 mm for Staphylococcus aureus. These results highlight the NPs potential for biological applications.
Effect of inhibition of pain axis conduction on maternal gastric emptying during labor: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Bu Wenhao , Wu Wei , Cheng Jing 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
The pain during labor is severe, and epidural analgesia is often used to inhibit pain axis conduction at present. Diet management during labor is very important during the whole process of labor. Therefore, we compared gastric emptying of semi-solid food between parturient women undergoing versus not undergoing epidural analgesia.
Methods
Seventy full-term, low-risk parturients were selected and divided into two groups according to epidural analgesia status: epidural analgesia group (LA, n= 35) and non-epidural analgesia group (NA, n= 35). The cross-sectional area of the gastric antrum (CSA0) was measured while fasting using B-ultrasound, and the time recorded as T0. The parturients in both groups then ate about 300 g millet congee (about 600 KJ). The CSAs of the gastric antra were measured by ultrasonography 60, 90, and 120 minutes after the experimental meal, these areas being recorded as CSA1, CSA2 and CSA3 and the corresponding time points as T1, T2, and T3. Pain scores of parturients at these four time points were recorded. Gastric emptying time was also recorded.
Results
CSA1, CSA2, and CSA3 were larger in the NA than in the LA group, and the gastric emptying time was longer in the NA than in the LA group (P<0.05). Pain scores were higher in the NA than LA group at the three time points of T1, T2, T3 (P<0.05).
Conclusions
Inhibition of the pain axis conduction by epidural analgesia can promote gastric emptying during labor. Therefore, semisolid food intake during vaginal delivery does not increase the risk of vomiting and aspiration in women undergoing labor analgesia compared with women without labor analgesia.
A Survey of Marigold Farmers in Jashore District, Bangladesh: Insights into Farming Practices and Challenges
Authors: Shome Anannya , Ahmmed Abu Noman Faruq , Zaman Rabita , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Amin Mehedi , Rifa Tanjina Akhter 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

A total of 130 marigold farmers from Jashore District in Bangladesh were studied in order to understand the socio-economic scenario in relation to cultivation techniques and management of pests and diseases. Most respondents fell within the 30–40 age range and ran a medium-size farm area ranging from 2 to 5 acres, which accounted for 65% of the respondents. Most of them had a low educational background; only 12% of the respondents had more than ten years of experience in marigold farming. The annual production cost averaged Tk. 35,000 per acre, yielding a net profit of Tk. 1,50,000 per acre. Marigold farming is economically viable in the 9,000-hectare area and sustains about 200,000 people. Major constraints arose because of the expensive rate of pest management, in which 60% had to spend as high as 25% on this activity, while further 70% blamed poor quality planting material for the incidence of fungal diseases and affected over 55%. Surprisingly, 75% of farmers showed interest in adopting sustainable practices through disease-resistant varieties and integrated pest management. For 65% of the farmers, government extension services were an important source of advice. However, the farmers expressed a felt need for better access to improved planting materials and more effective methods of pest control. These findings provide useful inputs for policy and programme design in efforts towards increasing the sustainability and economic output of marigold cultivation in the region.
Measuring change in institutional diversity in higher education in Brazil
Authors: Vieira Andre , Rodrigues Leonardo , Barbosa Maria-Ligia 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Drawing on previous literature emphasising the relationship between types of higher education institutions and institutional logics, this study investigates the impact of the higher education system expansion on the functioning of institutions in Brazil. Using latent profile analysis and administrative data from all Brazilian higher education institutions in 2010 and 2019, we estimate nine groups of institutions. We find that the shifts between groups are concentrated in private HEIs, mainly large for-profit institutions and small private colleges focused on teaching, while integrated research institutions constitute a separate and substantially elitist group, with a relatively higher degree of stability and losing ground to for-profit conglomerates. By following a multi-functional approach to understanding the degree of institutional diversity in an expanding higher education system, our study contributes to a more nuanced capture of its current dynamics and changing patterns over time.
Causes and effects of contamination of water sources due to excessive use of agrochemicals and pesticides: bibliometric analysis
Authors: Huepa Briñez Jose Armando , Florez Yepes Gloria Yaneth , Hernandez Diego 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

This article conducts a bibliometric analysis of water pollution caused by agricultural pesticides, focusing on theoretical and methodological trends. The analysis uses Scopus databases and Bibliometrix and VOSviewer software tools to analyze 2,330 documents from 2013 to 2022. The research highlights the importance of environmental, agricultural, and biological sciences in addressing water pollution. The study suggests improving pesticide use, reducing fertilizer applications, and addressing the harmful impacts of contaminated fish on human health. The restriction of glyphosate use in the European Union caused economic losses for companies, and a follow-up on glyphosate use in crop applications was proposed. The study also evaluates chemical concentrations and recommends addressing aquatic ecotoxicological risks. Future research trends include increasing water use efficiency and quality, hydrogeological studies, watersheds and land use, and climate modeling and impacts. The research is unique in addressing both research trends and knowledge gaps in water pollution research in various aspects.
Probing the Depths of Molecular Complexity: STAT3 as a Key Architect in Colorectal Cancer Pathogenesis
Authors: Suleman Muhammad , Khan Safir Ullah , Ali Shahid , Alghamdi Abdullah , Alissa Mohammed , Mushtaq Rayan Y. , Crovella Sergio 
Published: October 2024

Abstract:
Colorectal cancer (CRC) has become a significant threat in recent decades, and its incidence
is predicted to continue rising. Despite notable advancements in therapeutic strategies, managing
CRC poses complex challenges, primarily due to the lack of clinically feasible therapeutic
targets. Among the myriad molecules implicated in CRC, the signal transducer and activator of
transcription 3 (STAT3) stands out as a promising target tightly regulated by various genes. This
intracellular transcription factor, spanning 750-795 amino acids and weighing approximately 92
kDa, is crucial in key cellular activities such as growth, migration, invasion, inflammation, and angiogenesis.
Aberrant activation of STAT3 signaling has been linked to various cancers, including
CRC. Therefore, targeting this signaling pathway holds significance for potential CRC treatment
strategies.STAT3, as a central intracellular transcription factor, is implicated in colorectal cancer
development by activating aberrant signaling pathways. Numerous studies have demonstrated that
the abnormal hyperactivation of STAT3 in CRC tissues enhances cell proliferation, suppresses
apoptosis, promotes angiogenesis, and facilitates tumor invasion and metastasis. As a focal point
in colorectal cancer research, STAT3 emerges as a promising candidate for detecting and treating
CRC. This review aims to present recent data on STAT3, emphasizing the activation and functions
of STAT3 inhibitors in CRC. Indeed, STAT3 inhibitors have been identified to have therapeutic
potential in CRC, especially inhibitors targeting the DNA-binding domain (DBD). Indeed,
STAT3 inhibitors have been identified to have a therapeutic potential in CRC, especially the inhibitors
targeting the DNA binding domain (DBD). For example, imatinib acts by targeting cell
surface receptors, and these inhibitors have shown potential for the control and treatment of tumor
growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Imatinib, for example acts by targeting cell surface receptors,
and these inhibitors have shown the future direction toward the control and treatment of tumor
growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
Synthesis of New Xanthene and Acridine Derivatives from Cyclohexan-1,3-dione
and the Study of their Antiproliferative Activities
Authors: Ibrahim Rehab A. , Mohareb Rafat M. 
Published: October 2024

Background:
Ionic immobilized liquids and multi-component reactions are integral to
green chemistry, facilitating the synthesis of biologically active compounds, such as xanthene and
acridine derivatives. These approaches have garnered significant attention in recent years.

Objective:
The aim of this study was to synthesize novel xanthene and acridine derivatives with diverse
substituents and heterocyclic rings. Furthermore, the research sought to evaluate their anticancer
activity against various cancer cell lines and analyze their structure-activity relationships
(SAR) to determine how structural modifications impact their biological effectiveness.

Method:
The core compounds in this study were synthesized from cyclohexane-1,3-dione and triethoxymethane
under two distinct reaction conditions. The first involved the use of a solvent with
either Et₃N or NH₄OAc as a catalyst, while the second employed a solvent-free approach using an
ionic liquid catalyst (ILs).

Results:
The anti-proliferative activity of all synthesized compounds was evaluated against six selected
cancer cell lines, revealing that many compounds exhibited significant inhibitory effects. Furthermore,
their inhibitory potential against tyrosine kinases and Pim-1 kinases was assessed, along
with an investigation of their mechanism of action on tyrosine kinases.

Conclusion:
The anti-proliferative activity of the newly synthesized compounds was evaluated
against six cancer cell lines. Many of the compounds exhibited strong inhibitory effects not only
against the tested cancer cell lines but also against tyrosine kinases and Pim-1 kinases.
Emerging MRI Biomarkers for Prognostication in Rectal Cancer
Authors: Singh Apekshya , Li Xiao-Fu , Shi Sheng-Ming , Liu Han , Wu Yu-peng , Nirala Sanjeev 
Published: October 2024

Abstract:
Rectal cancer is a significant health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality
rates. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management
of rectal cancer, providing detailed anatomical and functional information. However, traditional
MRI techniques have limitations in prognosticating tumor behavior and treatment response. The
study emphasizes the importance of emerging techniques such as Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI),
mrDEC scoring system, Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI), Radiomics, and Machine
Learning. By examining recent research and clinical trials, we aim to offer a comprehensive
overview of the current landscape, challenges, and future directions associated with the incorporation
of these MRI biomarkers in predicting outcomes for rectal cancer patients. This review paper
aims to provide an overview of the emerging MRI biomarkers that hold the potential for prognostication
of rectal cancer.
Therapeutic Role of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) Cirrhosis
Authors: Jiang Hai-Tang , Ye Hao-Ming , Yu Hua-Yang , Zhu Yi-Ping , Hu Ming-Yu , He Man-Li , Li Wei-Yao , Yu Ze-Hui , Yang Qian , He Lv-Qin , Gu Cong-Wei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract:
NASH cirrhosis is a late-stage nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characterized
by high morbidity, high relapse rate, and high mortality, which is clinical to treat. Presently, liver
transplantation is the most effective radical treatment, but it is difficult to be widely carried out
due to the problems of large surgical trauma, lack of liver donors, and strong immunological rejection.
Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are a type of stem cell with characteristics
of self-replication, multidirectional differentiation, and easy accessibility. The use of BMSCs for
cell transplantation therapy has the advantages of fewer complications and significant efficacy,
and it has become an important option for cell transplantation therapy, especially for liver diseases.
In this paper, we will review the studies related to the use of BMSCs for the treatment of
NASH cirrhosis in recent years.
Safety Profile of Statins for Post-Marketing Adverse Cardiovascular Events: A Real-World Pharmacovigilance Analysis
Authors: Li Jing , Gong Junjie , Liu Ziyu , Liu Yuheng , He Anqi , Wang Zengguang 
Published: October 2024

Aims and objectives:
The purpose of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the association
of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins)
with neurological adverse events using the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting
System (FAERS) database, with the aim of guiding the rational use of statins.

Methods:
The number and clinical characteristics of adverse events (AEs) to statins in the FAERS
database between 2012 and March, 2023, were extracted. Neurological AEs were defined by the
system organ classes (SOCs) of “Nervous System Disorders (10029205)” and the corresponding
PT. Disproportionality was calculated using the reporting dominance ratio (ROR), proportional reporting
ratio (PRR), and information component (IC025).

Results:
Between January, 2012 and March, 2023, a total of 90,357 AEs were reported for the
three statins (atorvastatin, resuvastatin, and simvastatin). The majority of reports on AEs came
from the United States (n = 7284). A total of 8409 reports described neurological AEs following
the use of the three statins, with atorvastatin accounting for more than half of the reports (n =
4430). The mean age of patients who developed neurological AEs was 55 years and older. The prevalence
was similar in female patients (2230/4480) and male patients (1999/4480). Disproportionate
analyses showed that at the SOC level, only the correlation between atorvastatin and neurological
AEs suggested a positive signal (ROR: 9.77 (9.56-9.99); IC025: 3.28; PRR (χ2): 9.76
(16.07)) and in total, there were 32 PTs with a positive signal. The median time for neurological
AEs was 71 days (IQR: 14-559 days), and the most common AEs were other serious effects (important
medical event) (OT) (n = 2283) and hospitalization (HO) (n = 715).

Conclusion:
This study suggests that atorvastatin may be associated with an increased risk of neurological
AEs. This study provides realistic evidence of the potential risk of statin-related adverse
events.
The Constituents Analysis and the Anti-inflammatory Activity of the Chinese Medicine: Kanglao Concoction
Authors: Liu Shuang , Ma Yihan , Li Xunuo , Zhang Xiaoqin , Dong Jingxuan , Mao Jiale , Zhang Linlin , Zhang Zunjing 
Published: October 2024

Introduction:
The Chinese medicine, Kanglao concoction has been used clinically to treat
tuberculosis. However, its constituents and anti-inflammatory activity have not been fully understood.

Method:
In this study, HPLC-MS2 has been employed to determine the main constituents in the concoction.
The anti-inflammatory activity has been investigated by ELISA and Western Blot techniques.
The MS analysis revealed that tigogenin and afzelin were two main constituents in Kanglao
concoction.

Result:
Moreover, the result of ELISA experiments showed that Kanglao concoction significantly
reduced the expression of TNF-α and IL-1β at 5 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL to inhibit inflammation.

Conclusion:
The expression of Notch pathway-related proteins in A549 cells increased under the
stimulation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and decreased dose-dependently upon the treatment of
Kanglao concoction, which was deduced to inhibit Notch pathway expression to impose antiinflammatory
activity.