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Purpose: This paper investigates school library services in the digital age for students with dyslexia and explores the impact of current library services on students' learning. Design/methodology/approach: A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was designed according to the LAFE (Look and listen, Assistance and accessibility, Format and fit, and Environment) framework for learners with dyslexia and the 5E instructional model and conducted with 11 school librarians. Findings: Results indicated that participants lacked knowledge of dyslexia for appropriate library services. Awareness, IT skills, school administration, funding and parental attitudes would influence the library's tailored services to dyslexic children, despite the rich resources in these participants' libraries, including paperbacks, digital resources and electronic devices. Adaptations are necessary to provide accessible services, especially by applying digital technologies, and school libraries can positively impact students' reading interests, promote knowledge inquiry and strengthen information literacy skills. Originality/value: While students with dyslexia spend significant time in schools, limited studies focus on school library services in the digital age, especially in Asia. This study fills the gap by systematically exploring the issue with the 5E instructional model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caffeine is the most popular and widely consumed behaviourally active substance in the world. This review describes the influence of caffeine on the cardiovascular system, with a special focus on blood platelets. For many years, caffeine was thought to have a negative effect on the cardiovascular system mainly due to increasing blood pressure. However, more recent data suggest that habitual caffeine consumption may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension. This could be a significant finding as cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Caffeine is known to inhibit A1 adenosine receptors, through which it is believed to modulate inter alia coronary blood flow, total peripheral resistance, diuresis, and heart rate. It has been shown that coffee possesses antiplatelet activity, but depending on the dose and the term of its use, caffeine may stimulate or inhibit platelet reactivity. Also, chronic exposure to caffeine may sensitize or upregulate the adenosine receptors in platelets causing increased cAMP accumulation and anti-aggregatory effects and decrease calcium levels elicited by AR agonists. The search for new, selective, and safe AR agonists is one of the new strategies for improving antiplatelet therapy involving targeting multiple pathways of platelet activation. Therefore, this review examines the AR-dependent impact of caffeine on blood platelets in the presence of adenosine receptor agonists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex relationship between trace elements and skeletal health has received increasing attention in the scientific community. Among these minerals, manganese (Mn) has emerged as a key element affecting bone metabolism and integrity. This review examines the multifaceted role of Mn in bone health, including its effects on bone regeneration, mineralization, and overall skeletal strength. This review article is based on a synthesis of experimental models, epidemiologic studies, and clinical trials of the mechanisms of the effect of Mn on bone metabolism. Current research data show that Mn is actively involved in the processes of bone remodeling by modulating the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, as well as the main cells that regulate bone formation and resorption. Mn ions have a profound effect on bone mineralization and density by intricately regulating signaling pathways and enzymatic reactions in these cells. Additionally, Mn superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), located in bone mitochondria, plays a crucial role in osteoclast differentiation and function, protecting osteoclasts from oxidative damage. Understanding the nuances of Mn's interaction with bone is essential for optimizing bone strategies, potentially preventing and managing skeletal diseases. Key findings include the stimulation of osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis, and the preservation of bone mass through the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway. These results underscore the importance of Mn in maintaining bone health and highlight the need for further research into its therapeutic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-based direct energy deposition (DED-LB/M) has been a promising option for the surface repair of structural aluminum alloys due to the advantages it offers, including a small heat-affected zone, high forming accuracy, and adjustable deposition materials. However, the unequal powder particle size during powder-based DED-LB/M can cause unstable flow and an uneven material flow rate per unit of time, resulting in defects such as pores, uneven deposition layers, and cracks. This paper presents a multiscale, multiphysics numerical model to investigate the underlying mechanism during the powder-based DED-LB/M surface repair process. First, the worn surfaces of aluminum alloy components with different flaw shapes and sizes were characterized and modeled. The fluid flow of the molten pool during material deposition on the worn surfaces was then investigated using a model that coupled the mesoscale discrete element method (DEM) and the finite volume method (FVM). The effect of flaw size and powder supply quantity on the evolution of the molten pool temperature, morphology, and dynamics was evaluated. The rapid heat transfer and variation in thermal stress during the multilayer DED-LB/M process were further illustrated using a macroscale thermomechanical model. The maximum stress was observed and compared with the yield stress of the adopted material, and no relative sliding was observed between deposited layers and substrate components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Central neurological disorders are significant contributors to morbidity, mortality, and long-term disability globally in modern society. These encompass neurodegenerative diseases, ischemic brain diseases, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, depression, and more. The involved pathogenesis is notably intricate and diverse. Ferroptosis and neuroinflammation play pivotal roles in elucidating the causes of cognitive impairment stemming from these diseases. Given the concurrent occurrence of ferroptosis and neuroinflammation due to metabolic shifts such as iron and ROS, as well as their critical roles in central nervous disorders, the investigation into the co-regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis and neuroinflammation has emerged as a prominent area of research. This paper delves into the mechanisms of ferroptosis and neuroinflammation in central nervous disorders, along with their interrelationship. It specifically emphasizes the core molecules within the shared pathways governing ferroptosis and neuroinflammation, including SIRT1, Nrf2, NF-κB, Cox-2, iNOS/NO·, and how different immune cells and structures contribute to cognitive dysfunction through these mechanisms. Researchers' findings suggest that ferroptosis and neuroinflammation mutually promote each other and may represent key factors in the progression of central neurological disorders. A deeper comprehension of the common pathway between cellular ferroptosis and neuroinflammation holds promise for improving symptoms and prognosis related to central neurological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to conceptually extend the religious aspect of consumption beyond the intrinsic motivation, i.e. religiosity, to a broader consideration of its social and cultural surroundings by highlighting the concept of "religiocentrism". Design/methodology/approach: The paper is conceptual and qualitative. It explores the concept of religiocentrism in several disciplines, including theology, politics, sociology, marketing and consumption. Findings: The paper introduces the concept of religiocentrism in understanding religious consumption and marketing among consumers within a religious context. This paper further discusses the origin of the term religiocentrism; religiocentrism as looking beyond the intrinsic motivation, i.e. religiosity, religiocentrism from the social identity theory; past research on religiocentrism in theology, politics, sociology, education, marketing and consumption, as well as suggesting potential future research in religiocentrism within marketing and consumption studies. Research limitations/implications: The lack of research relating to religiocentrism in marketing makes the depth of the discussion rather limited. This paper, however, does not discuss the term religiocentrism from the theology roots but focuses more on the marketing and consumption aspects of religiocentrism. Originality/value: Several research papers exist within the different disciplines about religiocentrism. However, to the best of the authors' knowledge, it can be argued that this paper is one of its kind to highlight the concept of "religiocentrism" in consumption and marketing that considers the social and cultural surroundings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteochondral (OC) disorders such as osteoarthritis (OA) damage joint cartilage and subchondral bone tissue. To understand the disease, facilitate drug screening, and advance therapeutic development, in vitro models of OC tissue are essential. This study aims to create a bioprinted OC miniature construct that replicates the cartilage and bone compartments. For this purpose, two hydrogels were selected: one composed of gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) blended with nanosized hydroxyapatite (nHAp) and the other consisting of tyramine-modified hyaluronic acid (THA) to mimic bone and cartilage tissue, respectively. We characterized these hydrogels using rheological testing and assessed their cytotoxicity with live-dead assays. Subsequently, human osteoblasts (hOBs) were encapsulated in GelMA-nHAp, while micropellet chondrocytes were incorporated into THA hydrogels for bioprinting the osteochondral construct. After one week of culture, successful OC tissue generation was confirmed through RT-PCR and histology. Notably, GelMA/nHAp hydrogels exhibited a significantly higher storage modulus (G′) compared to GelMA alone. Rheological temperature sweeps and printing tests determined an optimal printing temperature of 20 °C, which remained unaffected by the addition of nHAp. Cell encapsulation did not alter the storage modulus, as demonstrated by amplitude sweep tests, in either GelMA/nHAp or THA hydrogels. Cell viability assays using Ca-AM and EthD-1 staining revealed high cell viability in both GelMA/nHAp and THA hydrogels. Furthermore, RT-PCR and histological analysis confirmed the maintenance of osteogenic and chondrogenic properties in GelMA/nHAp and THA hydrogels, respectively. In conclusion, we have developed GelMA-nHAp and THA hydrogels to simulate bone and cartilage components, optimized 3D printing parameters, and ensured cell viability for bioprinting OC constructs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Social media platforms are a pervasive technology that continues to define the modern world. While social media has brought many benefits to society in terms of connection and content sharing, numerous concerns remain for the governance of social media platforms going forward, including (but not limited to) the spread of misinformation, hate speech and online surveillance. However, the voice of citizens and other non-experts is often missing from such conversations in information systems literature, which has led to an alleged gap between research and the everyday life of citizens. Design/methodology/approach: The authors address this gap by presenting findings from 16 h of online dialog with 25 citizens on social media platform governance. The online dialog was undertaken as part of a worldwide consultation project called "We, the internet", which sought to provide citizens with a voice on a range of topics such as "Digitalization and Me," "My Data, Your Data, Our Data" and "A Strong Digital Public Sphere." Five phases of thematic analysis were undertaken by the authors to code the corpus of qualitative data. Findings: Drawing on the Theory of Communicative Action, the authors discuss three dialogical processes critical to citizen discourse: lifeworld reasoning, rationalization and moral action. The findings point toward citizens' perspectives of current and future issues associated with social media platform governance, including concerns around the multiplicity of digital identities, consent for vulnerable groups and transparency in content moderation. The findings also reveal citizens' rationalization of the dilemmas faced in addressing these issues going forward, including tensions such as digital accountability vs data privacy, protection vs inclusion and algorithmic censorship vs free speech. Originality/value: Based on outcomes from this dialogical process, moral actions in the form of policy recommendations are proposed by citizens and for citizens. The authors find that tackling these dark sides of digitalization is something too important to be left to "Big Tech" and equally requires an understanding of citizens' perspectives to ensure an informed and positive imprint for change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Unhealthy dietary habits have clearly been shown to contribute to the development of CVDs. Beyond the primary nutrients, a healthy diet is also rich in plant-derived compounds. Natural polyphenols, found in fruits, vegetables, and red wine, have a clear role in improving cardiovascular health. In this review, we strive to summarize the results of the relevant pre-clinical and clinical trials that focused on some of the most important natural polyphenols, such as resveratrol and relevant flavonoids. In addition, we aim to identify their common sources, biosynthesis, and describe their mechanism of action including their regulatory effect on signal transduction pathways. Finally, we provide scientific evidence regarding the cardiovascular benefits of moderate, long-term red wine consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper examines the limitations on monetary profit maximization assumption in Quaker businesses, historically one of England's most successful set of business people. This view challenges the central theoretical assumptions of management and strategic entrepreneurship by demonstrating the influence of religious institutional logic over the profit maximization drive in business. Design/methodology/approach: Using a historical analysis of Quaker religious institutional logic, the authors demonstrate how Quakers' religious logic of simplicity in lifestyle and equality of all people led, in turn, to actions by Quaker businesses that limited the monetary profit maximizing for their businesses. Such actions are consistent with the Quakers' belief that linked their business activities to their religious beliefs. Findings: The present analysis shows that English Quakers had specific beliefs, enforced by the group's willingness to expel members that limited monetary profit maximization among Quaker businesses. Thus, the authors challenge the typical assumptions of business scholars by demonstrating that business entities can succeed economically even when they do not embrace profit maximization as their core element. This paradoxical finding has the potential to significantly expand management and strategic entrepreneurship theory. Originality/value: The authors discuss how religious logic can replace profit maximization as a foundation for business. This insight enriches not only the understanding of business but also of religious institutional logic. Finally, the authors address the call for greater use of historical analysis in the management literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ischemic stroke is a cerebrovascular disease caused by an interruption of blood flow to the brain, thus determining a lack of oxygen and nutrient supply. The ischemic event leads to the activation of several molecular signaling pathways involved in inflammation and the production of reactive oxygen species, causing irreversible neuronal damage. Several studies have focused on the acute phase of ischemic stroke. It is not clear if this traumatic event can influence some of the molecular processes in the affected area even years after the clinical event. In our study, we performed an in silico analysis using freely available raw data with the purpose of evaluating the transcriptomic state of post-mortem brain tissue. The samples were taken from non-fatal ischemic stroke patients, meaning that they suffered an ischemic stroke and lived for a period of about 2 years after the event. These samples were compared with healthy controls. The aim was to evaluate possible recovery processes useful to mitigating neuronal damage and the detrimental consequences of stroke. Our results highlighted differentially expressed genes codifying for proteins along with long non-coding genes with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant functions. This suggests that even after an amount of time from the ischemic insult, different neuroprotective mechanisms are activated to ameliorate brain conditions and repair post-stroke neuronal injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In traditional oriental medicine, carrots (Daucus carota L.) are considered effective medicinal herbs; however, the use of D. carota leaves (DCL) as therapeutic agents has not been explored in depth. Therefore, we aimed to demonstrate the value of DCL, generally treated as waste while developing plants for wide industrial availability. Six flavone glycosides were isolated and identified from DCL, and their constituents were identified and quantitated using an NMR and HPLC/UV method, which was optimized and validated. The structure of chrysoeriol-7-rutinoside from DCL was elucidated for the first time. The method exhibited adequate relative standard deviation (<1.89%) and recovery (94.89–105.97%). The deglycosylation of DCL flavone glycosides by Viscozyme L and Pectinex was assessed. Upon converting the reaction contents to percentages, the luteolin, apigenin, and chrysoeriol groups showed values of 85.8, 33.1, and 88.7%, respectively. The enzyme-treated DCL had a higher inhibitory effect on TNF-α and IL-2 expression than that of the carrot roots or carrot leaves without enzyme treatments. These results highlight the importance of carrot leaves and could be used as baseline standardization data for commercial development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Using the canvas of the author's sojourn with the Islamic preaching group Tablighi Jamaat, this study aims to exhibit reflections on how spaces can be categorized as more sacred or less sacred according to a specific religious worldview. The paper extends the conversation on Mary Douglas's concepts of purity and danger by sharpening the focal lens on place in Douglas's theoretics. The paper also proffers the idea of a sojourn as a vehicle of purification. Design/methodology/approach: This paper depicts findings from the author's multi-sited ethnographic field notes carried out from a 40-day sojourn with the Islamic preaching group Tablighi Jamaat in Pakistan. Findings: The study unveils the concept of relative sacredness or how some spaces can be considered more sacred than others. The differential sacred status of these variegated spaces, each with its own etiquettes, meaning and consumption rituals is a means for purification for sojourners. Originality/value: This paper prioritizes a focus on place in Mary Douglas's arguments on purity and impurity in a religious consumption context. The thesis argues that place is a significant concept associated with metaphorical cleanliness/sacredness, which in religious terms guides consumer action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Justicia has more than 600 species distributed in both hemispheres, in the tropics and temperate regions, and it is used in the treatment of numerous pathologies. This study presents a review of the biological activities of plant extracts and isolated chemical constituents of Justicia (ACANTHACEAE), identified in the period from May 2011 to August 2022. We analyzed over 176 articles with various biological activities and chemical compound descriptions present in the 29 species of Justicia. These have a variety of applications, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial, with alkaloids and flavonoids (e.g., naringenin) the most frequently identified secondary metabolites. The most observed species were Justicia gendarussa Burm., Justicia procumbens L., Justicia adhatoda L., Justicia spicigera Schltdl, and Justicia pectoralis Jacq. The frontier molecular orbitals carried out using density functional theory (M062X and basis set 6-311++G(d,p) indicate reactive sites for naringenin compound and a chemical reaction on phytomedicine activity. The energy gap (206.99 kcal/mol) and dimer solid state packing point to chemical stability. Due to the wide variety of pharmacological uses of these species, this review points toward the development of new phytomedicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation is a complex response of the human organism and relates to the onset of various disorders including diabetes. The current research work aimed at investigating the anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects of ferruginan, a compound isolated from Olea ferruginea. Its in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was determined by using the heat-induced hemolysis assay, while the anti-diabetic effect of the compound was studied by the yeast cell glucose uptake assay. Ferruginan exhibited a maximum of 71.82% inhibition of inflammation and also increased the uptake of glucose by yeast cells by up to 74.96% at the highest tested concentration (100 µM). Moreover, ferruginan inhibited α-amylase dose-dependently, by up to 75.45% at the same concentration. These results indicated that ferruginan possesses promising anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties in vitro, even if at high concentrations. To provide preliminary hypotheses on the potentially multi-target mechanisms underlying such effects, docking analyses were performed on α-amylase and on various molecular targets involved in inflammation such as 5′-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK, PDB ID 3AQV), cyclooxygenase (COX-1, PDB ID 1EQG, and COX-2, 1CX2), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α, PDB ID 2AZ5). The docking studies suggested that the compound may act on α-amylase, COX-2, and AMPK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apigenin is a naturally occurring dietary flavonoid found abundantly in fruits and vegetables. It possesses a wide range of biological properties that exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antibacterial effects. These effects have been reported to be beneficial in the treatment of atherosclerosis, stroke, hypertension, ischemia/reperfusion-induced myocardial injury, and diabetic cardiomyopathy, and provide protection against drug-induced cardiotoxicity. These potential therapeutic effects advocate the exploration of the cardioprotective actions of apigenin. This review focuses on apigenin, and the possible pharmacological mechanisms involved in the protection against cardiovascular diseases. We further discuss its therapeutic uses and highlight its potential applications in the treatment of various cardiovascular disorders. Apigenin displays encouraging results, which may have implications in the development of novel strategies for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. With the commercial availability of apigenin as a dietary supplement, the outcomes of preclinical studies may provide the investigational basis for future translational strategies evaluating the potential of apigenin in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders. Further preclinical and clinical investigations are required to characterize the safety and efficacy of apigenin and establish it as a nutraceutical as well as a therapeutic agent to be used alone or as an adjuvant with current drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to explore the intrinsic and extrinsic motivators for cabin crew members' ambidexterity and to investigate the influence of ambidexterity on prosocial service behavior. The authors employed PLS-SEM to examine the model, using 428 valid samples from cabin crew members, their pursers, and managers working for airlines in South Korea. The study found that challenge, empowerment, and learning goal orientation, among the four dimensions of the intrinsic motivators, have positive and significant influences on cabin crew members' ambidexterity. The findings also demonstrate that only service climate, among the three extrinsic motivators studied, is associated with ambidexterity. Moreover, the findings reveal a strong relationship between cabin crew members' ambidexterity and prosocial service behaviors. Based on the findings, the authors addressed theoretical and practical implications related to sustainability literature and the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apigenin (API) has many biological activities, but its poor solubility limits its clinical application. In this research, API nanoparticles were prepared by the liquid antisolvent precipitation (LAP) technique, which effectively improved the solubility and bioavailability of API. Through the design of a single-factor test, the effects of the type and dosage of surfactants, API concentration, the antisolvent to solvent volume ratio, the speed and time of stirring, the temperature of precipitation, and the dropping speed on the MPS (mean particle size) of API nanosuspension were carried out. The optimum technological conditions were determined as follows: 5 mg/mL of tween 80 as a surfactant, 20 mg/mL of API, an antisolvent/solvent volume ratio of 10, a 1200 r/min stirring speed for 5 min, a 45 °C precipitation temperature, and a 1 mL/min dropping speed. Under the optimum conditions, we obtained API nanosuspension with 170.5 nm MPS and then it was freeze-dried to obtain the API nanoparticles. Moreover, we characterized the API nanoparticles by SEM, FTIR, XRD, DSC, and TG. Results showed that although API nanoparticles transformed into an amorphous form, their internal chemical structure had not been changed and had a higher solubility. Finally, API nanoparticles' anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated by observing the effect of API on nitric oxide (NO) production and IL-10 production toward RAW264.7 cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Moreover, the anti-tumor effect of API was determined by testing cell viability and apoptosis. The results suggested that API nanoparticles exhibited much better anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities compared to raw API. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its advantageous antioxidant phytochemical components, Psidium guajava L. has become an indispensable plant in pharmaceutical formulations, playing a crucial role in safeguarding human health. On ruminant animals, however, there has been limited investigation. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the phytochemical profiles and biological potential of Farang (P. guajava L.) leaf extracts for ruminant health. Methanolic and hexanoic extracts from various agricultural areas were prepared over a five-month period. By means of HPLC-DAD, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), essential oil (eugenol), tannin (gallic acid), cinnamic acids (caffeic acid, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, sinapic acid, and ferulic acid), and flavonoids (catechin, rutin, myricetin, quercetin, apigenin, and kaempferol) were detected and quantified. Solvent type, but not cultivation site or sampling time, explained the observed variation in phytochemical profile. Phytochemicals were found in lower concentrations in hexanoic extracts than in methanolic extracts. Catechin and sinapic acid were discovered to be the two most abundant phytochemicals in the methanolic extract of Farang leaf, followed by other phenolic compounds, essential oils, and water-soluble vitamins. Compared with the methanolic extract, the hexanoic extract of Farang leaves was less effective at scavenging oxidation in terms of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide, and superoxide, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Hexanoic extract was found to be less protective against oxidative damage in ruminant erythrocytes than methanolic extract in terms of inhibiting hemoglobin oxidation, lipid peroxidation, and hemolysis. According to the findings of this study, the leaves of Farang (P. guajava L.) are a potential source of phytochemical compounds with wellness properties for ruminant production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms are well-known for their richness of health-beneficial bioactive metabolites. In recent years, consumers interested regarding fatty acid composition of different food are increasing. This work assessed the nutritional value of two different verities of mushrooms including Button mushroom (BM) and Oyster mushroom (OM), and determined the composition and contents of fatty acids. Mushrooms dried in cabinet dehydrator at 55°C for 16 hrs, the obtained mushroom powder packed in an airtight jar. All mushroom-based food products (MBFPs) i.e., biscuits, noodles, nuggets and soup mix were developed using mushroom powder. Results regarding the fatty acids profile showed that, Saturated fatty acid (SFA) followed by (palmitic acid 13.20g/100) BMP, (stearic acid 3.97g/100) OMP, (margaric acid 3.43g/100) BMP, (behenic acid 1.15g/100) BMP, (arachidic acid 0.37g/100) BMP and (lignoseric acid 0.34g/100) BMP. Unsaturated fatty acid (USFA) followed by (trans linoleic acid 66.49g/100 BMP, (cis oleic acid 34.26g/100) OMB, (gamma 6.24g/100) BMP, (eicosenoic acid 2.64g/100) BMP, (linolenic acid 1.60g/100 BMP, (erucic acid 1.07g/100) BPM, (nervonic acid 0.89g/100) BMP, (eicosadienoic acid 1.99g/100) BMP, (trans oleic acid 0.26g/100) BMP and (palmitoleic acid 0.21g/100) OMP. Value added food products followed by SFA nugget (palmitic acid 1.30g/100), biscuit (palmitic acid 3.69g/100), soup mix (palmitic acid 0.25g/100) and noodles (palmitic acid 0.16g/100). Value added food products followed by UNFA nugget (cis oleic acid 10.05g/100), biscuits (cis oleic acid 34.26g/100), soup mix (trans linoleic acid 1.80g/100) and noodles (gamma 0.53g/100). Total fatty acid (TFA) (Poly unsaturated fatty acid =PUSFA, Monounsaturated fatty acid = MUSFA and Total saturated fatty acid= TSFA) followed by (TFA 81.57g/100) BMP, (PUSFA76.33g/100) BMP, (MUSFA 35.15g/100) OMB, (TSFA 21.84g/100) BMP. The findings from present study conclude that BM and OM can be effectively utilized for the development of MBFPs while their fatty acid profiling exhibited the presence of 16 FAs (06 SFAs and 10 USFA) which indicates that MBFPs possess considerable proportion of essential fatty acids rather than SFAs. It is concluded that mushrooms are high-quality and can be used as a source for meat analog required by vegetarians. This study provides a scientific source for the additional consumption of mushrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate whether and how religiosity (e.g. extrinsic and intrinsic) influences the mediator variables (consumers' commitment and materialism) in the Islamic bank consumers context. It also examines how the mediators should be influence consumers' preferences. Design/methodology/approach: In total, 658 Muslim people and Islamic bank consumers were recruited for a survey study and structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses. Findings: The empirical results indicate that religiosity (e.g. extrinsic and intrinsic) has significant and positive effects on consumers' commitment and materialism, whereas intrinsic religiosity has no significant effect on consumers' commitment which subsequently influences consumers' preference. Furthermore, mediator variables (e.g. consumers' commitment and consumers' materialism) have partial mediators between religiosity and consumers' preferences. Research limitations/implications: The current study was limited to Indonesian Muslim people; there is a future need to study consumers' attitudes and engagement in religious products and services (e.g. Islamic brands). It is can help practitioners, regulators and researchers to observe the dynamic behavior to elaborate on the impact of religion and Islamic products on consumers' preference. Practical implications: The bank managers and regulators should enhance the information of products and services Islamic banks and the difference principle between conventional banks. Moreover, enlighten the consumers about the principle operation of Islamic banks from the perspective of marketing and religiosity. Originality/value: This study contributes to consumers' behavior literature and, specifically, for the decision-making process through developing and testing a model of religious determinants toward Islamic bank products, as well as offers new insights into the determinants of religion and consumers' decision process toward Islamic banking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managing pediatric tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health problem requiring urgent and long-lasting solutions as TB is one of the top ten causes of ill health and death in children as well as adolescents universally. Minors are particularly susceptible to this severe illness that can be fatal post-infection or even serve as reservoirs for future disease outbreaks. However, pediatric TB is the least prioritized in most health programs and optimal infection/disease control has been quite neglected for this specialized patient category, as most scientific and clinical research efforts focus on developing novel management strategies for adults. Moreover, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has meaningfully hindered the gains and progress achieved with TB prophylaxis, therapy, diagnosis, and global eradication goals for all affected persons of varying age bands. Thus, the opening of novel research activities and opportunities that can provide more insight and create new knowledge specifically geared towards managing TB disease in this specialized group will significantly improve their well-being and longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natto is a famous traditional fermented food, but the influence of the fermentation process on the content and composition of soybean isoflavones and nutritional value is still unclear. In the present study, the variation in soybean isoflavones during fermentation by Bacillus subtilis natto was revealed by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS (Ultra high performance liquid chromatography-electron spray ionization-mass spectrometry) analysis. After 24 h of fermentation, the total isoflavone content in natto increased by 1.62 times compared with fresh soybean, and the content of aglycones was 3.07 times that of raw beans. More importantly, among 14 isoflavone isomers identified in natto, the isomers of daidzin, genistin, and succinyl genistin were detected for the first time, which might be due to the result of isomerase and succinylase and other corresponding enzymes' action in Bacillus subtilis. In addition, natto isoflavones performed great antioxidant activity than its monomer components (glycosides daidzin and genistin, aglycones genistein and daidzein), except for genistein. Moreover, natto isoflavone and its aglycones (especially genistein) performed great inhibitory activity against AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products) in three in vitro models. The mechanism test showed that genistein could form adducts (UPLC-Q-TOF-ESI-MS/MS analysis) with methylglyoxal. These findings demonstrated that soybean fermented with Bacillus subtilis natto had a significant influence on the isoflavone profiles and its bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) assessment models are commonly used to assess existing and planned metro station catchment areas. Elements like diversity, density, design, destination, distance, and demand management are considered in the 6Ds TOD assessment model. Assessment of these elements in the designing stage depends on the TOD expert's involvement to ensure the effectiveness of the model. The aim of this research is to develop novel pre-TOD assessment guidelines that consist of Spatial Analysis, Virtual Function of Transit Station (VFTS), and Estimated Spatial Analysis, which can improve the reliability of the assessment conclusion according to the 16 planning elements. The research applies three methodologies: (1) analytical approach to evaluate the TOD concept and its assessment model; (2) development of pre-TOD assessment guidelines using the Delphi technique; and (3) conduct a case study of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center metro station in Qatar to validate the developed model. The findings are a new concept, called the Dependent Component Area (DCA) of the metro station, and VFTS classifications of the metro station include an urban connector, suburban connector, destination, and destination connector. The newly developed pre-TOD assessment guidelines can enhance TOD assessment methods, especially in emerging cities. Moreover, these assessment guidelines will provide TOD and planning experts with more precise data and information related to the DCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia, insulin insufficiency or insulin resistance, and many issues, including vascular complications, glycative stress and lipid metabolism dysregulation. Natural products from plants with antihyperglycemic, hypolipidemic, pancreatic protective, antioxidative, and insulin-like properties complement conventional treatments. Throughout this review, we summarize the current status of knowledge of plants from the Caribbean basin traditionally used to manage DM and treat its sequelae. Seven plants were chosen due to their use in Caribbean folk medicine. We summarize the antidiabetic properties of each species, exploring the pharmacological mechanisms related to their antidiabetic effect reported in vitro and in vivo. We propose the Caribbean flora as a source of innovative bioactive phytocompounds to treat and prevent DM and DM-associated complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth factors are bio-factors that target reparatory cells during bone regeneration. These growth factors are needed in complicated conditions of bone and joint damage to enhance tissue repair. The delivery of these growth factors is key to ensuring the effectiveness of regenerative therapy. This review discusses the roles of various growth factors in bone and cartilage regeneration. The methods of delivery of natural or recombinant growth factors are reviewed. Different types of scaffolds, encapsulation, Layer-by-layer assembly, and hydrogels are tools for growth factor delivery. Considering the advantages and limitations of these methods is essential to developing regenerative therapies. Further research can accordingly be planned to have new or combined technologies serving this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcoholism is one of the most common diseases that can lead to the development of several chronic diseases including steatosis, and cognitive dysfunction. Statins are lipid-lowering drugs that are commonly prescribed for patients with fatty liver diseases; however, the exact effect of statins on cognitive function is still not fully understood. In the present study, we have investigated the molecular and microscopic basis of cognitive impairment induced by alcohol and/or Atorvastatin (ATOR) administration to male Wistar albino rats and explored the possible protective effect of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). The biochemical analysis indicated that either alcohol or ATOR or together in combination produced a significant increase in the nucleotide-binding domain–like receptor 3 (NLRP3), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) miRNA155 expression levels in the frontal cortex of the brain tissue. The histological and morphometric analysis showed signs of degeneration in the neurons and the glial cells with aggregations of inflammatory cells and a decrease in the mean thickness of the frontal cortex. Immunohistochemical analysis showed a significant increase in the caspase-8 immunoreaction in the neurons and glial cells of the frontal cortex. Interestingly, administration of ASA reversed the deleterious effect of the alcohol and ATOR intake and improved the cognitive function as indicated by biochemical and histological analysis. ASA significantly decreased the expression levels of miRNA155, NLRP3, and IL1B, and produced a significant decrease in caspase-8 immunoreaction in the neurons and glial cells of the frontal cortex with a reduction in the process of neuroinflammation and neuronal damage. To further investigate these findings, we have performed an extensive molecular docking study to investigate the binding affinity of ASA to the binding pockets of the NLRP3 protein. Our results indicated that ASA has high binding scores toward the active sites of the NLRP3 NACHT domain with the ability to bind to the NLRP3 pockets by a set of hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions. Taken together, the present study highlights the protective pharmacological effect of ASA to attenuate the deleterious effect of alcohol intake and long term ATOR therapy on the cognitive function via targeting miRNA155 and NLRP3 proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to consider the potential of visual (i.e. non-textual) research methods in community-based participatory research. Design/methodology/approach: The authors draw on a case illustration of a photo- and video-voice campaign involving rural communities in British Columbia, Canada. Findings: The authors find that visual research methods, in the form of photo- and video-voice campaigns, allow participants to form ties between their community and the broader sociocultural, natural and political milieu in which their community is located. The authors highlight the benefits of using such methodological approaches to capture an emic perspective of community building. Originality/value: The contribution of this study is twofold. First, this study uses a photo- and video-voice campaign to showcase the role of visuals in articulating community pride – that is, how locals construct identity – and a sense of belongingness. Second, by focusing its analytical gaze on the idea of "community," this paper revisits the importance of active involvement of research participants in the execution of empirical studies. Ultimately, the authors urge organization and management studies scholars, as well as those working in the social sciences more broadly, to further explore the value of innovative community-based research approaches in future work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transformational training programs, employee loyalty and quality orientation of employees have been some of the important concerns for both academicians and practitioners for decades. Yet, little is known about their underlying relationship dynamics, especially in the context of higher education institutions. The pivotal aim of this study was to investigate the interplay of transformational training programs, loyalty and quality orientation of employees. For this, a causal model demonstrating the direct and indirect relationships of transformational training programs, employee loyalty and quality orientation was built and tested. Data for this study were collected from 212 (n = 212) academics (deans, head of departments and faculty members) from all private sector universities in Amman, Jordan, through a cross sectional survey. Results indicated that both direct and indirect effects of transformational training programs on quality orientation of employees were significant. More specifically, the positive effects that transformational training programs have on quality orientation of employees are through employee loyalty. This finding significantly advances the existing body of knowledge and implies that transformational training programs enhance employees’ loyalty which, in turn, escalates employees’ orientations towards quality. Hence, it is concluded that the objective of inculcating quality orientation amongst employees cannot be achieved with mere reliance upon transformational training programs. Several contextual factors, such as employee loyalty, should also be focused on and fostered to ensure the effects that training programs have on certain desirable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Important reserves of oil and gas, which are left to be discovered and produced, are mainly concentrated in challenging locations and under severe conditions such as high pressure (HP)/high temperature (HT). The presence of aggressive environments including H2S, CO2 and chlorides plus HP/HT causes a series of corrosion problems, which cost the oil industry billions of dollars a year. Thus, there is an increasing challenge for tubes (i.e. oil country tubular goods, for short, OCTG) used in producing oil and gas. The purpose of this study is to summarize different kinds of corrosion problems and their mitigation, to more efficiently protect OCTG from corrosion.Design/methodology/approach To effectively select proper mitigation methods, the mechanism of corrosion must be understood, which can be classified into four categories: sweet corrosion, sour corrosion, galvanic corrosion and microbiologically induced corrosion. Also, the effects of environmental and material factors on the corrosion rate are presented. Subsequently, current technology of mitigating these corrosion problems has been discussed, including the development of materials, application of chemical inhibitors and application of protective layers.Findings It is stressed that limits exist for each individual mitigation method; therefore, a careful balance between economic life of OCTG and safety in operation is required.Originality/value The main purpose of this essay is to give a brief review and detailed introduction and analysis about those technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Project management has gained a lot of application in software development activity in the past two decades. It is now considered to be one of the most critical component of software development lifecycle. Project management is traditionally defined as the discipline of planning, organizing, and managing activities and resources for successful execution and completion of project goals and objectives. In this respect, project management holds a key position in satisfactory completion of projects. That is the reason that we have a complete knowledge domain we know as software project management (SPM). The main purpose of SPM is to achieve all the project goals and objectives while working within the constraints posed by project environment and stakeholders. These constraints include (but not limited to) time, scope, resources, resource allocation and optimization etc. Successful project planning involved careful selection and synchronization of resources in order to achieve satisfactory completion of projects. These resources include human resource, rime, infrastructure etc. While planning software projects, it is natural to be confronted with various conflicts in resource allocation. It becomes a very time consuming activity to identify and sort out these conflicts when project size is large and time constraints are severe. A good project management activity is one which can effectively foresee these conflicts and resolve them in an optimal fashion. Computationally intelligent techniques are a good candidate to be used for the purpose of automation of this task. In this paper, a genetic algorithm based technique for conflict identification and resolution for project activities has been proposed. The effectiveness and utility of such a technique has also been discussed in this paper. The technique has been subjected to extensive experimentation and results have been presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of antimony in the human body is the result of exposure from many different sources, as is the case for any chemical element. The use of hair for diagnosing antimony exposure has become very popular because of the uncomplicated sampling and preservation, but the true utility of such studies remains uncertain. This review presents a critical discussion of the existing literature on antimony concentrations in hair, nails, and teeth, with three main objectives: (a) evaluating published data from the methodological point of view, (b) establishing a range of plausible values for antimony concentrations in these tissues, and (c) assessing statistically based correlations reported in case-control studies. From a methodological standpoint, existing data suffer from the lack of adequate certificate reference materials, low concentrations close to the detection limit of most analytical techniques and data acquisition through applying multielement techniques. These limitations are probably the underlying reason for the high dispersion of the published results and do not make it possible to establish a reliable background value for human hair from healthy, unexposed individuals. However, it is possible to estimate a concentration ceiling at 0.1 μg−1, with a probable value around 0.05 μg−1. Concerning the usefulness of antimony determinations in hair, existing results amply justify its use in occupational studies. On the other hand, the analysis of antimony concentrations in hair as an indicator of human health status does not seem to be based on any scientific evidence. The limited number of studies on human nails and teeth does not allow any conclusions to be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The main objective was to produce 3D printable hydrogels based on GelMA and hydroxyapatite doped with cerium ions with potential application in bone regeneration. The first part of the study regards the substitution of Ca2+ ions from hydroxyapatite structure with cerium ions (Ca10-xCex(PO4)6(OH)2, xCe = 0.1, 0.3, 0.5). The second part followed the selection of the optimal concentration of HAp doped, which will ensure GelMA-based scaffolds with good biocompatibility, viability and cell proliferation. The third part aimed to select the optimal concentrations of GelMA for the 3D printing process (20%, 30% and 35%). In vitro biological assessment presented the highest level of cell viability and proliferation potency of GelMA-HC5 composites, along with a low cytotoxic potential, highlighting the beneficial effects of cerium on cell growth, also supported by Live/Dead results. According to the 3D printing experiments, the 30% GelMA enriched with HC5 was able to generate 3D scaffolds with high structural integrity and homogeneity, showing the highest suitability for the 3D printing process. The osteogenic differentiation experiments confirmed the ability of 30% GelMA-3% HC5 scaffold to support and efficiently maintain the osteogenesis process. Based on the results, 30% GelMA-3% HC5 3D printed scaffolds could be considered as biomaterials with suitable characteristics for application in bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document presents the design and manufacture of a reflectarray (RA) antenna for the Ku-band that is based on a fully-metallic 3D architecture. The reflectarray unit cell is formed by a square-shaped waveguide section ending in a short circuit, which is the reflectarray back ground plane. Each cell has the ability of configuring the phase of its own reflected field by means of resonators perforated on the walls of the cell waveguide section. The resonator-based waveguide cell introduces the 3D character to the design. The geometry of the resonators and the size variation introduces the phase behavior of each cell, thus, conforming the radiation pattern of the reflectarray. This design explores the potential of phase value truncation (six states and two states) and demonstrates that proper pattern results can be obtained with this phase truncation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activated alpha-2 Macroglobulin (α2M*) is specifically recognized by the cluster I/II of LRP1 (Low-density lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein-1). LRP1 is a scaffold protein for insulin receptor involved in the insulin-induced glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) translocation to plasma membrane and glucose uptake in different types of cells. Moreover, the cluster II of LRP1 plays a critical role in the internalization of atherogenic lipoproteins, such as aggregated Low-density Lipoproteins (aggLDL), promoting intracellular cholesteryl ester (CE) accumulation mainly in arterial intima and myocardium. The aggLDL uptake by LRP1 impairs GLUT4 traffic and the insulin response in cardiomyocytes. However, the link between CE accumulation, insulin action, and cardiac dysfunction are largely unknown. Here, we found that α2M* increased GLUT4 expression on cell surface by Rab4, Rab8A, and Rab10-mediated recycling through PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signaling activation. Moreover, α2M* enhanced the insulin response increasing insulin-induced glucose uptake rate in the myocardium under normal conditions. On the other hand, α2M* blocked the intracellular CE accumulation, improved the insulin response and reduced cardiac damage in HL-1 cardiomyocytes exposed to aggLDL. In conclusion, α2M* by its agonist action on LRP1, counteracts the deleterious effects of aggLDL in cardiomyocytes, which may have therapeutic implications in cardiovascular diseases associated with hypercholesterolemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The present review summarizes the generated hypothesis and critical role of quercetin in cardiovascular and neuroprotective diseases reported over the last decade. In this review, 335 research articles were referred from the popular scientific database (e.g., Scopus and Web of Science) to elaborate on the importance of quercetin in addressing human ailments and the health-protective role imparted. Being a valuable bioactive compound within the circular economy context, the source for obtaining quercetin has been extended for food industrial wastes/byproducts (mainly of fresh produce). Further, the establishment of the molecular mechanism, antioxidant potential, oxidative stress, metabolic process, myocardial damage, anti neurogenerative potential, enzymatic expression, and ROS inhibition renders quercetin an ideal phytochemical that can provide protective benefits against cardiac and neurodegenerative diseases. Quercetin, a bioactive secondary metabolite, holds incredible importance in terms of bioactivities, which has been proved by in vivo and in vitro studies. The treatment of cardiovascular and neurological diseases by quercetin has been extensively investigated over the past decade. Quercetin is present naturally in appreciable amounts in fresh produce (fruits and vegetables). However, today, corresponding to the growing population and global demand for fresh fruits and vegetables, a paradigm shift and focus is laid towards exploring industrial food wastes and/or byproducts as a new resource to obtain bioactive compounds such as quercetin. Based on the available research reports over the last decade, quercetin has been suggested as a reliable therapeutic candidate for either treating or alleviating health issues, mainly those of cardiovascular and neurological diseases. In the present review, we have summarized some of the critical findings and hypotheses of quercetin from the available databases foreseeing its future use as a potential therapeutic agent to treat cardiovascular and neurological diseases. It is anticipated that this review will be a potential reference material for future research activities to be undertaken on quercetin obtained from fresh produce as well as their respective processing wastes/byproducts that rely on the circular concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercetin (QCT) is a natural polyphenolic compound enriched in human food, mainly in vegetables, fruits and berries. QCT and its main derivatives, such as rhamnetin, rutin, hyperoside, etc., have been documented to possess many beneficial effects in the human body including their positive effects in the cardiovascular system. However, clinical implications of QCT and its derivatives are still rare. In the current paper we provide a complex picture of the most recent knowledge on the effects of QCT and its derivatives in different types of cardiac injury, mainly in ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury of the heart, but also in other pathologies such as anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity or oxidative stress-induced cardiac injury, documented in in vitro and ex vivo, as well as in in vivo experimental models of cardiac injury. Moreover, we focus on cardiac effects of QCT in presence of metabolic comorbidities in addition to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Finally, we provide a short summary of clinical studies focused on cardiac effects of QCT. In general, it seems that QCT and its metabolites exert strong cardioprotective effects in a wide range of experimental models of cardiac injury, likely via their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and molecular pathways-modulating properties; however, ageing and presence of lifestyle-related comorbidities may confound their beneficial effects in heart disease. On the other hand, due to very limited number of clinical trials focused on cardiac effects of QCT and its derivatives, clinical data are inconclusive. Thus, additional well-designed human studies including a high enough number of patients testing different concentrations of QCT are needed to reveal real therapeutic potential of QCT in CVD. Finally, several negative or controversial effects of QCT in the heart have been reported, and this should be also taken into consideration in QCT-based approaches aimed to treat CVD in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ventricular arrhythmia (VA) is a major component of sudden cardiac death (SCD). To investigate the expression of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) during VA, we established a rat model of VA induced by BaCl2 solution through a microinjector pump. PD142893 (ET-1 receptor blocker) and SB431542 (TGF-β1 receptor type I blocker) were used to explore the effect of ET-1 and TGF-β1 on BNP expression in the myocardium after VA. BNP, ET-1, and TGF-β1 in rat myocardium were assayed by western blot and immunohistochemical staining for proteins, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction for mRNAs. We found increased expression of BNP and ET-1 in rat myocardium that was associated with the duration of VA. However, TGF-β1 protein expression remained unchanged. Such early increases in BNP and ET-1 may be attributed to fatal arrhythmias associated with SCD, suggesting these may be novel biomarkers of this disease. After intraperitoneal injection of PD142893 and SB431542, respectively, BNP was downregulated in the myocardium of the left ventricle; however, this was abrogated by co-application of the two inhibitors. These results suggested that both ET-1 and TGF-β1, by specifically binding to their receptors, might be involved in the myocardial synthesis of BNP during VA in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]