bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of dumping sites on air, soil and water pollution in selected Southern African countries: challenges and recommendations
Authors: Njewa Joel B. , Mweta Grace , Sumani Jimmy , Biswick Timothy Tiwonge
Published: January 2025

Rapid population growth, industrialization, and urbanization have contributed to the generation of large volumes of waste, causing disposal challenges. This present study examined the impact of dumping sites on air, soil, and water pollution in five Southern African countries. The five selected Southern African countries have unique situations concerning landfill pollution caused by a mix of environmental, social and health issues. These countries encounter significant water, air and soil pollution due to inadequate waste management techniques. The study adopted a literature survey approach, reviewing published papers and reports on chemical pollutants. A total of 151 downloaded papers, obtained through systematic keyword searches across multiple databases, were analyzed. The chemical pollutants investigated include heavy metals, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) substances in water resources, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The reported levels of heavy metals (lead), PBDE, PFAS, PAHs, and PCBs ranged from 23,000 to 14,600,000 µg/kg, 127-3,702 pg·L-1, 310-1,089 ng·L-1, 45-95 mg/kg, and 0.2-5.3 mg/kg, respectively. The results indicate that landfills, as well as open dumping sites, are major threats to surface and underground water resources. The study suggests that policies to regulate and monitor landfills should be implemented to mitigate the environmental impact of landfills.
Cálculo de soleras de hormigón para centrales hortofrutícolas y centros logísticos mediante las fórmulas de Westergard modificadas y las de Meyerhof
Authors: Gargallo-Tatay Esteban , Ferrer-Gisbert Carlos Manuel , Redón-Santafé Miguel , Torreogrosa-Soler Juan Bautista , Sánchez-Romero Francisco Javier , Ferrán-Gozálvez Jose Javier , Ferrer-Gisbert Pablo Sebastian
Published: January 2025

En las centrales hortofrutícolas y los centros logísticos de la cadena agroalimentaria, tras una campaña de visitas a múltiples instalaciones de este sector, se ha determinado que los puntos más desfavorables en cuanto a cargas sobre la solera se refieren, son las cargas ocasionadas por los vehículos estibadores y por las estanterías de almacenaje. En la presente ponencia, a partir de los datos obtenidos en dichas visitas, se ha desarrollado un cálculo analítico mediante las fórmulas de Westergaard (TR-34, 1997) y Meyerhof (TR-34, 2014) con objeto de optimizar el diseño de soleras.
Impact assessment of cover crops on the risk of frost in the Anjou vineyard
Authors: Bau Laetitia , Chassaing Thomas
Published: January 2025

The increase in the frequency of spring frosts and the rising precocity of the phenological stages of the vine have been threatening the wine production in the Anjou vineyard for several years (Petitjean et al., 2022). In addition to these effects of climate change, the developing practices of grassing and sowing cover crops (Gaviglio, 2022) have the effect of modifying the vine’s microclimate and can increase frost damage (Hirschy et al., 2020). Hence, a study on the impact of cover crops and destruction method on the risk of frost was carried out in the Anjou vineyard.
Do Environmental Concerns and Perceived Quality-Benefit Encourage Consumers' Willingness To Pay More for Pro-Environmental Products?
Authors: Cahyasita Dhika , Aisyah Dinda Dewi , Sari Ayu Kumala
Published: January 2025

This research aims to see the influence of environmental awareness and quality benefits consumers feel on willingness to pay more. Data from 228 respondents was collected through an online survey to fill out a structured questionnaire. The PLS-SEM approach was used in data analysis. The results of the study show that both environmental awareness and perceived quality-benefit have a significant positive influence on consumers' willingness to pay more for green products. The policy implication that can be recommended is to normalize premium prices for pro-environmental products by optimizing marketing communications.
Analisis Risiko Produksi Usahatani Padi Organik
Authors: Prayoga Ryan , Lubis Mitra Musika
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui sumber – sumber risiko produksi pada usahatani padi organik di Desa Lubuk Bayas, Kecamatan Perbaungan, Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai Bagaimana tingkat risiko produksi usahatani padi organik di Desa Lubuk Bayas, Kecamatan Perbaungan, Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai dan upaya apa yang dilakukan untuk meminimalisir risiko produksi tersebut. Populasi petani padi organik di Desa Lubuk Bayas sebanyak 25 orang. Penentuan sampel dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode sensus sehingga sampel yang digunakan adalah 25 orang, pengambilan data dilakukan dengan observasi, wawancara dan pengisian kuisioner. Sedangkan analisis data menggunakan analisis standar deviasi dan koefisien variasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sumber risiko produksi usahatani padi organik di Desa Lubuk Bayas seperti proses pengolahan lahan, penanaman, pemupukan, pasca panen, hama dan penyakit, iklim dan cuaca. Dan Tingkat risiko produksi dari koefisien variasi (CV) sebesar 0,57 pada musim tanam A dan 0,58 pada musim tanam B. Dimana kedua musim tersebut < 1 maka usahatani padi organik di Desa Lubuk Bayas, Kecamatan Perbaungan, Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai memiliki Tingkat risiko produksi yang rendah atau kecil. Kemudian Upaya meminimalisir risiko produksi usahatani padi organik yaitu dengan melakukan membersihkan saluran irigasi, meninggikan bedengan, melakukan penyulaman, pembuatan waduk, memanen tepat waktu, menggunakan mesin pada saat pemanenan, dan melakukan pengecekan yang rutin serta melakukan perawatan dan pemeliharaan dengan cara pemberian pupuk organik, pestisida nabati dan pupuk organik cair (poc).
Peran Investasi Agrikultur Sebagai Penguat Ketahanan Pangan dari Krisis Iklim
Authors: Almughni Muhammad Afdha Alif , Kusumawardani Deni , Suyanto Suyanto
Published: January 2025

Kondisi kelaparan dunia sangat timpang pada setiap benua. Benua Asia merupakan benua yang memiliki daerah kelaparan serius setelah Benua Afrika. Hal tersebut diperparah dengan krisis pangan akibat kenaikan harga pangan dunia yang diakibatkan oleh pandemi Covid-19 dan konflik antara Rusia dan Ukraina yang merupakan salah satu pemasok minyak bunga matahari, jangung, dan gandum dunia. FAO telah mengerakan upaya untuk meningkatkan ketahanan pangan dan mengurangi kelaparan. Akan tetapi dalam meningkatkan produksi pangan juga menghadapi tantangan krisis iklim. Dalam menghadapi tantangan tersebut FAO telah menyarankan untuk meningkatkan investasi agrikltur. Oleh karena itu penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis pengaruh krisis iklim dan investasi agrikultur di negara-negara Asia dengan menggunakan produk domestik bruto dan inflasi pangan sebagai variabel kontrol. Untuk menyelidiki pengaruh investasi agrikultur dan krisis iklim terhadap ketahanan pangan, peneliti menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan data balanced panel untuk 42 negara pada Benua Asia untuk periode 2002-2022 menggunakan regresi panel. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa krisis iklim dengan indikator perubahan suhu dan itensitas peristiwa ekstrim seperti kekeringan dan banjir berpengaruh negatif signifikan terhadap ketahanan pangan, akan tetapi perubahan pola curah hujan tidak berpengaruh terhadap ketahanan pangan. Hasil lain menunjukkan bahwa investasi agrikultur berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap ketahanan pangan.
Analisis Posisi Indonesia Sebagai Eksportir Lada di Pasar Internasional
Authors: Budiarto Fadia Nur Rahma , Sri TJondro Winarno  , Prasmita Dian Wijayati
Published: January 2025

Indonesia merupakan salah satu produsen lada di dunia. Indonesia juga menempati posisi nomor 6 sebagai pengekspor lada di pasar internasional. Sejak tahun 2013 hingga tahun 2022, ekspor lada Indonesia terus mengalami penurunan yang mengancam posisi Indonesia sebagai eksportir lada di dunia. Tujuan. Penelitian ini menganalisis posisi Indonesia sebagai eksportir lada di pasar internasional, serta perbandingan dengan negara saingan. Metode. Metode yang digunakan adalah Indeks Spesialisasi Pedagangan (ISP) dan Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) dengan negara pembanding Vietnam dan India. Hasil. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Indonesia belum mampu bersaing dengan Vietnam dan India, namun memiliki nilai ISP dan RCA positif yang menunjukkan bahwa Indonesia memiliki daya saing yang kompetitif dan dalam masa pertumbuhan.
PERBANDINGAN BIAYA DAN WAKTU KOMPONEN DINDING MENGGUNAKAN SISTEM KONVENSIONAL DAN SISTEM MODULAR GEDUNG FPSD UPI
Authors: Setyawan Ary , Kurniawati Adji Retno , Utomo Budi
Published: January 2025

 Over time, Indonesia's development is advancing. Conventional techniques are now thought to be less efficient in terms of time and expense. Because of this, we require a construction innovation which specifically the development of a modular system in order to decrease the cost and duration of construction activity. The factory-fabricated materials used in the modular technique are installed using a tower crane. For the conventional approach and the modular method which uses precast concrete for wall component work, the comparison research uses lightweight brick material. This research used cost and time variables as a comparison of wall work with conventional methods and modular methods. This study used the FPSD Building project of the Indonesian University of Education (UPI) for data collection which was then processed with Microsoft Excel software. This study aimed to analyze cost and time efficiency to determine the percentage of savings in the use of precast concrete as an alternative in the future. The results of this study for light brick wall work require a fee of IDR 5,648,755,562.71 and walls using precast concrete materials at a price of IDR 6,916,150,235.52. Meanwhile, in terms of time, the fastest wall work duration was wall work using precast concrete material, which was 138 days. Whereas the longest time for wall work was using lightweight brick material with a duration of 231 days.
Pengembangan Media E-Comic Profil Berkebinekaan Global Untuk Mata Pelajaran PPKN Fase C Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Nalita Nalita Oktaviana , Suprayekti Suprayekti , Utomo Erry
Published: January 2025

Penelitian pengembangan ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan media berupa e-comic yang dapat dimanfaatkan untuk bahan belajar peserta didik SD sebagai upaya penguatan karakter profil berkebinekaan global. Model interactive multimedia (IMM) oleh Rob Phillips terdiri dari empat tahapan yaitu design, development, evaluation, dan implementation. Evaluasi produk melibatkan satu ahli materi dan satu ahli media dengan hasil layak digunakan. Implementasi dilakukan dengan skala sikap awal dan skala sikap akhir oleh 26 peserta didik kelas V sekolah dasar. Hasil skala sikap awal adalah 42,62 dan skala sikap akhir 48 dari skor maksimal 50. Peningkatan hasil skala sikap kebinekaan global didapatkan dari hasil uji normalitas gain (n-gain) dengan hasil 0,744 kategori tinggi atau sebesar 74,4% pada kategori cukup efektif. Berdasarkan proses dan prosedur pengembangan yang telah dilakukan, dapat dinyatakan bahwa media e-comic profil berkebinekaan global memiliki kualitas yang baik (layak) dan cukup efektif untuk digunakan sebagai penunjang dalam penguatan nilai karakter sikap kebinekaan global.
Pengembangan Online Course Pada Mata Pelajaran Administrasi Infrastruktur Jaringan Bagi Siswa Kelas XI Di SMKN 53 Jakarta Jurusan TKJ
Authors: Mochamad Ardhani , Utomo Erry , Widyaningrum Retno
Published: January 2025

Penelitian pengembangan ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan produk pembelajaran berupa online course untuk memfasilitasi peserta didik SMK kelas XI Jurusan Teknik Komputer dan Jaringan. Peneltian pengembangan ini dilakukan menggunakan prosedur pengembangan ILDF (Integrative Learning Design Framework) dengan melalui tahapan eksplorasi, penyusunan, dan evaluasi. Tahapan evaluasi yang dilakukan berbentuk evaluasi formatif dengan metode penyebaran kuesioner kepada expert review (ahli materi dan ahli media), kemudian dilakukan uji coba kepada mahapeserta didik melalui evaluasi one-to-one dan small group. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi dari ahli materi menunjukkan hasil “Sangat Baik” dengan nilai 3,85/4,00. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi dari ahli media pembelajaran menunjukkan hasil “Sangat Baik” dengan nilai 3,70/4,00. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi one-to-one menunjukkan hasil “Sangat Baik” dengan nilai 3,66/4,00. Dan berdasarkan hasil evaluasi small group menunjukkan hasil “Sangat Baik” dengan nilai 3,54/4,00.
This development research aims to develop learning products in the form of online courses to facilitate class XI vocational school students majoring in Computer and Network Engineering. This development research was carried out using the ILDF (Integrative Learning Design Framework) development procedure through the stages of exploration, preparation and evaluation. The evaluation stage carried out is in the form of a formative evaluation using the method of distributing questionnaires to expert reviewers (material experts and media experts), then trials are carried out on student students through one-to-one and small group evaluations. Based on the evaluation results from material experts, the results were "Very Good" with a score of 3.85/4.00. Based on the evaluation results from learning media experts, it shows "Very Good" results with a score of 3.70/4.00. Based on the results of the one-to-one evaluation, it shows "Very Good" results with a score of 3.66/4.00. And based on the small group evaluation results, the results were "Very Good" with a score of 3.54/4.00.
Pengembangan Video Pembelajaran Interaktif Asking and Offering Help
Authors: Zianadezdha Asfara , Suprayekti Suprayekti , Widyaningrum Retno
Published: January 2025

Penelitian pengembangan ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan produk pembelajaran berupa video pembelajaran interaktif Asking and Offering Help untuk peserta didik kelas X di SMA Negeri 62 Jakarta dalam rangka memfasilitasi pembelajaran bahasa Inggris di dalam kelas. Pengembangan video pembelajaran didasarkan pada analisis kebutuhan dan tujuan pembelajaran. Video pembelajaran interaktif merupakan media pembelajaran yang baru dibandingkan dengan media pembelajaran yang sebelumnya digunakan, yaitu media presentasi. Proses pengembangan video pembelajaran interaktif ini menerapkan model pengembangan 4D. Model pengembangan 4D terdiri atas empat tahapan utama, yaitu tahap pendefinisian, tahap desain, tahap pengembangan, dan tahap penyebarluasan. Penelitian pengembangan ini menghasilkan video pembelajaran interaktif yang dapat diakses melalui tautan dan dimuat pada poster. Dalam proses pengembangannya, video pembelajaran interaktif ini telah  melalui penilaian ahli media pembelajaran dan ahli materi pelajaran. Dan sudah melalui serangkaian uji coba pengguna, yaitu uji coba one to one, small group, dan field test. Melalui serangkaian proses ini, maka video pembelajaran interaktif adalah media yang dapat digunakan untuk memfasilitasi pembelajaran Asking and Offering Help.
Peningkatan Kemampuan Literasi Matematika Siswa Ditinjau Dari Model PBL & TPS
Authors: Safitri Prahesti Tirta , Azhar Firdaus , Purbaningrum Kus Andini
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membandingkan peningkatan kemampuan literasi matematika siswa menggunakan model pembelajaran Problem Base Learning dengan siswa yang men menggunakan model Think Pair Share (TPS). Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain Nonequivalen Control Group Design. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di SMP Negeri 17 Tangerang dengan subjek penelitian yaitu siswa kelas 7.3 dan 7.4. Data yang dikumpulkan menggunakan teknik tes uraian. Berdasarkan hasil analisis data menggunakan N-Gain menunjukkan bahwa pembelajaran Problem Based Learning dan Think Pair Share dapat meningkatkan kemampuan literasi matematika siswa. Untuk materi persamaan dan pertidaksamaan linier satu variabel model pembelajaran ProblemBased Learning mampu meningkatkan kemampuan literasi matematika lebih baik dibandingkan dengan Think Pair Share
Analisis Literasi Membaca Mahasiswa STAI Siliwangi Garut
Authors: Novela Greria Tensa , Chaeruman Uwes Anis , Rahmawati Reni
Published: January 2025

Along with the development of science and technology, books are starting to be replaced by electronic devices, new technology has brought great benefits and opportunities in terms of getting information more quickly and in a more efficient way. Unfortunately, the ease of getting information has made people's awareness of the importance of having the ability to read increasingly disappear. . This is proven by survey results from various international institutions regarding the low reading ability of Indonesian students. The efforts made by the government through the recent reading literacy policy have provided changes for the better, although not yet significant, therefore, research was conducted on 100 students using PISA questions to find out what difficulties students faced in taking the PISA test from the results of the analysis. The results found that students had difficulty in taking the PISA test, namely questions related to reflecting and evaluating text in tabular form extensively, analyzing the combination of information in non-continuous images and graphs, integrating and interpreting text appropriately, and reflecting and evaluating text in table continuous.
Evaluación exergética y de sensibilidad del proceso de producción de microperlas de quitosano modificadas con nanopartículas verdes de TiO2
Authors: Herrera-Rodríguez Tamy Carolina , Parejo-Palacio Vianny , González-Delgado Ángel Darío
Published: January 2025

El quitosano es un biopolímero procedente de exoesqueletos de crustáceos, alas de insectos o paredes celulares de hongos; que se perfila como materia prima para diversas aplicaciones en medicina, industria alimentaria, cosmética, tratamiento de aguas y aplicaciones medioambientales. Además, esta alternativa se presenta como una solución al problema de la inadecuada disposición de los desechos alimentarios marinos, problema continuo en todas las zonas costeras que genera un olor desagradable además de perjudicar al turismo. Se realizó un análisis de exergía, con el objetivo de identificar los principales sumideros en el proceso mediante el uso de la primera y segunda ley de la termodinámica; para ello, se desarrolló la simulación industrial de la producción de microperlas de quitosano modificadas con TiO2, mediante el programa Aspen plus 8.8, en el que se cuantificaron las exergías físicas de las corrientes. La cuantificación de la exergía permitió reconocer a la centrifugación como la etapa con mayores irreversibilidades, así como la eficiencia global del proceso, que fue de 0,0439 %. Mediante el análisis de sensibilidad se evaluó el comportamiento del proceso ante cambios de variables. Finalmente, se proponen mejoras que favorecen el proceso y mejoran su eficiencia.
Gasdermins induce the release of mitochondrial DNA during pyroptosis and apoptosis
Authors: de Torre-Minguela Carlos , Gomez Ana , Couillin Isabelle , Pelegrin Pablo
Published: January 2025

Pyroptosis and intrinsic apoptosis are two forms of regulated cell death driven by active caspases where plasma membrane permeabilization is induced by gasdermin pores. Caspase-1 induces gasdermin D pore formation during pyroptosis meanwhile caspase-3 promotes gasdermin E pore formation during apoptosis. These two types of cell death are accompanied by mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization due to BAK/BAX pore formation in the external membrane of mitochondria, and to some extent this complex also affects the inner mitochondrial membrane facilitating mitochondrial DNA relocalisation from the matrix to the cytosol. However, the detailed mechanism responsible for this process has not been investigated. Herein, we reported that gasdermin processing is required to induce mitochondrial DNA release from cells, despite mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization, during pyroptosis and apoptosis. Gasdermin targeting the plasma membrane promotes a fast-mitochondrial collapse with the initial accumulation of mitochondrial DNA in the cytosol and then facilitate its release from the cell upon plasma membrane rupture. These findings demonstrate a critical role of gasdermin action on the plasma membrane facilitating the release of mitochondrial DNA as a damage-associated molecular pattern.
Disease exacerbation in MYOrganoids derived from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy iPSC reveals limitations of microdystrophin therapeutic efficacy
Authors: Albini Sonia , Palmieri Laura , Pili Louna , Jaber Abbass , Hong Ai Vu , Moula Melissa , El-Khoury Riyad , Brochier Guy , Bigot Anne , israeli David , Richard Isabelle
Published: January 2025

Current gene therapy approaches for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) using AAV-mediated delivery of microdystrophin (µDys) have shown limited efficacy in patients, contrasting with the favorable outcomes observed in animal models. This discrepancy is partly due to the lack of models that replicate key pathogenic features associated with the severity of the human disease, such as fibrosis and muscle dysfunction. To tackle the translational gap, we develop a human disease model that recapitulates these critical hallmarks of DMD for a more predictive therapeutic investigation. Using a muscle engineering approach, we generate MYOrganoids from iPSC-derived muscle cells co-cultured with fibroblasts that enable functional maturation for muscle force analysis upon contractions. Incorporation of DMD fibroblasts within DMD iPSC-derived muscle cells allows phenotypic exacerbation by unraveling of fibrotic signature and fatiguability through cell-contact-dependent communication. Although µDys gene transfer partially restores muscle resistance, it fails to fully restore membrane stability and reduce profibrotic signaling. These findings highlight the persistence of fibrotic activity post-gene therapy in our human DMD system, an unparalleled aspect in existing DMD models, and provide the opportunity to explore the underlying mechanisms of dysregulated cellular communication to identify anti-fibrotic strategies empowering gene therapy efficacy.
Inhibiting DPP4 activity protects hiPSC-derived steatotic HLCs by supporting fatty acid and purine metabolism and dampening inflammation
Authors: Lörch Christiane , Wruck Wasco , Julian Reiss , Adjaye James , Graffmann Nina
Published: January 2025

Background
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MAFLD) has a high prevalence and high co-morbidity for other diseases. Due to the complexity of this multifactorial disease, therapy options are still rather limited. We employed an in vitro pluripotent stem cell-based model to decipher basic disease-associated molecular pathways and to study the mode of action of potential drugs.
Methods
We induced the steatosis phenotype in human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) by oleic acid (OA)-feeding and confirmed regulation of clinically relevant pathways by NGS-based global transcriptomic analyses. Analysis of the secretome of steatotic HLCs revealed Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) as a potential key mediator of the disease. To further elucidate its role in the development of MAFLD, we inhibited DPP4 activity with Vildagliptin (VILDA) and analyzed the global transcriptome changes as well as specific gene and protein expression of steatosis-associated genes with and without DPP4 inhibition.
Results
MAFLD-associated pathways such as PPAR- and TNF signaling were differentially regulated in hiPSC-derived steatotic HLCs. We found increased hepatic DPP4 activity and secretion upon OA. Fatty acid and purine metabolism and inflammation response pathways were improved upon DPP4 inhibition.
Conclusions
Our HLC-model confirmed clinically-relevant association of DPP4 with metabolism and inflammation which foster the development of MAFLD. Inhibiting DPP4 with VILDA partially relieved the steatotic phenotype.
Trial registration
Not applicable
Impact and implications:
Given the difficulties of identifying suitable anti-MAFLD drugs, novel model systems are urgently needed. Our in vitro HLC-model reproduced DPP4-dependent aspects of the disease and responded positively to Vildagliptin treatment. Further elucidation of the role of DPP4 in the etiology of MAFLD is warranted.
Location choice of cross-border mergers and acquisitions of port and shipping service enterprises in China: characteristics, process and influencing factors
Authors: Jiang Ziran , Chen Yijie
Published: January 2025

Cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is one of the main ways for multinational enterprises to access international capital, explore international markets, and participate in global operations. Based on defining the connotation of port and shipping service enterprises (PSSEs), this paper takes the cross-border M&As of PSSEs in China as a research case, and uses spatial analysis technology and conditional Logit model to study the spatial distribution characteristics and main driving factors of the 202 cross-border M&As of PSSEs from 1993 to 2021. Research results are as follows: (1) Cross-border M&As of PSSEs in China are generally divided into four stages: the proximity layout before 2000, the localized agglomeration in 2001–2008, the diffusion distribution in 2009–2016, and the steady expansion from 2017 to the present. (2) The cross-border M&As shows a northeast-southwest direction, and its center of gravity shows a clear trend of moving westward. (3) Overall, the cross-border M&As exhibits an agglomeration trend. From 2001 to 2008, there was no significant correlation. From 2009 to 2016, a negative correlation was observed, while a positive correlation appeared after 2017. These patterns align with the timeline of major national strategies. (4) Among the driving factors affecting the location choice of cross-border M&As, market size of the host country, economic freedom, shipping scale, liner transportation connectivity and institutional distance present a positive impact, while road network density, informatization level and proportion of high-tech product exports present a significant negative impact, and the impact of geographical distance is not significant.
Factors related to required excess energy for weight gain in patients with anorexia nervosa under strict behavioral control: a study in a Japanese medical prison
Authors: Suzuyama Chie Aso , Takakura Shu , Takii Masato , Kishimoto Junji , Suematsu Takafumi , Toda Kenta , Yamashita Makoto , Hata Tomokazu , Sudo Nobuyuki
Published: January 2025

Background
This study aimed to establish the amount of excess calories required for a weight gain of 1 kg in the recovery period of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and to identify factors influencing weight gain.
Methods
Forty-one patients with AN in a Japanese medical prison were included in the study. All the data were collected from the medical charts. Body composition was measured using multifrequency bioelectrical impedance devices (InBody 770®) and body weight. Daily caloric intake was determined by calculating the amount of leftover food and resting energy expenditure was calculated using Scalfi's formulation. These were then used to calculate daily excess energy and excess energy for 1-kg weight gain (EE1). In addition, we investigated the relationship between EE1 and initial body composition values, body mass index, and AN subtype.
Results
Of the 41 patients, two had EE1s that we considered outliers. Excluding these, the mean EE1 was 12776.8 kcal/kg with large individual differences observed (range: 6636–22064 kcal/kg). Significant associations were noted between EE1 and body fat mass, body fat percentage, soft lean percentage, and body water ratio. Moreover, patients with BFM ≤ 3 kg (p = 0.003), BFP ≤ 8% (p = 0.008), SLP > 85% (p = 0.011), and BWR > 0.665 (p = 0.011) had higher mean EE1s.
Conclusions
Patients with AN may require more calories than healthy women, particularly patients with less fat and more muscle who may require a greater energy intake for weight gain. (234/350words)
Barriers to Effective Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITN) Usage in Rural Northern Nigeria: Behavioural and Gender Perspectives
Authors: Audu Michael , Adekunle Osuolale Oludayo , Uchenwoke Caroline , Agabus Jummai
Published: January 2025

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, accounting for approximately 27% of malaria cases and 32% of malaria deaths worldwide. Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are among the most effective and cost-efficient interventions for malaria prevention. They reduce the disease’s prevalence and mortality by offering a physical barrier and insecticidal protection against mosquitoes. Despite distributing Insecticide-Treated Nets (ITNs) as part of Nigeria’s malaria control strategies, utilization remains low in rural areas. This study focuses on rural populations and examines the behavioural factors influencing ITN usage in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara States. Using a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data were collected from 600 households (200 per state) via structured surveys, while qualitative insights were gathered through focus group discussions.
Findings indicate that 72% of households own at least one ITN, but only 45% reported consistent usage. Key barriers to ITN adoption include misconceptions about malaria transmission (32%), discomfort due to heat (28%), and cultural beliefs (24%). Socioeconomic factors such as low income and limited education levels further hinder consistent ITN use. Qualitative findings reveal that women’s decision-making power significantly influences ITN utilization, while myths, such as ITNs causing infertility, discourage their use.
The study concludes that improving ITN utilization in rural Nigeria requires addressing behavioural barriers through targeted community education, gender-sensitive interventions, and ensuring access to user-friendly nets
A personalized 14-3-3 disease-targeting workflow yields repositioning drug candidates
Authors: Larasati Yonika , Solis Gonzalo , Koval Alexey , Korff Christian , Katanaev Vladimir
Published: January 2025

Rare diseases typically evade the application of the standard drug discovery and development pipeline due to their understudied molecular etiology and the small market size. Here, we report a rare disease-directed workflow that rapidly studies the molecular features of the disorder, establishes a high-throughput screening (HTS) platform, and conducts an HTS of thousands of approved drugs to identify and validate repositioning drug candidates. Applied to the pediatric neurological disorder caused by de novo mutations in YWHAG, the gene encoding the scaffolding protein 14-3-3γ, this workflow discovers nuclear relocalization and a severe drop in 14-3-3γ binding to its phosphorylated protein partners as the key molecular features of the pathogenic hotspot YWHAG mutations. We further established a robust in vitro HTS platform and screened ca. 3000 approved drugs to identify the repositioning drug candidates that restore the deficient 14-3-3γ-phosphotarget interactions. Our workflow can be applied to other 14-3-3-related disorders and upscaled for many other rare diseases.
The negative association between C-reactive protein-albumin-lymphocyte (CALLY) index and kidney stone: a cross‑sectional study
Authors: Yang Jiaqing , Du Yuanzhuo , Guo Ju
Published: January 2025

Background
The C-reactive protein-albumin-lymphocyte (CALLY) index is a novel composite biomarker that reflects the body's immune response, nutritional state, and inflammatory response. However, no studies have reported the correlation between CALLY and kidney stones. This study aims to determine the correlation between CALLY and kidney stones.
Methods
Data from the 2007-2010 NHANES surveys were analyzed in this cross-sectional study. A weighted multivariable logistic regression model and smooth curve fitting were employed to examine the correlation between CALLY and kidney stones. Subgroup analyses and interaction assessments were subsequently performed to confirm the robustness of the results.
Results
Among 10,938 participants aged 18 years and older, 9.14% were diagnosed with kidney stones. The results demonstrated a notable inverse relationship between elevated CALLY and the prevalence of kidney stones. Specifically, after performing a natural logarithmic transformation of the CALLY index, the adjusted model showed that with each one-unit rise in lnCALLY, the risk of kidney stones decreased by 21.5% (OR = 0.785; 95% CI: 0.643-0.959; P = 0.01756). Subgroup analyses confirmed the consistency of this relationship across all cohorts, unaffected by stratifying variables. Curve fitting and threshold effect analysis revealed a U-shaped association between CALLY and the risk of kidney stones, with the inflection point at -0.48, showing a significant P-value (< 0.001).
Conclusion
This study identifies a negative correlation between CALLY and the prevalence of kidney stones, characterized by a U-shaped curve. These results indicate the potential of CALLY as a valuable mark for identifying kidney stones.
Epidemiological insights into HIV Prevalence and its Transmission pattern in Mizo tribal population of North East, India
Authors: Khawlhring Lalnunthari , Lalrinpuia Benjamin , Lalngaihzuali Rebecca , Laldinmawii Gracy , Ralte Lalengkimi , Lalnuntluangi Christina , Chawngthu Richard L. , Ralte Jane , Zothanzama John , Kumar Nachimuthu Senthil , Lalthafeli Nalida , Roy Swagnik
Published: January 2025

Background: Mizoram has the highest incidence of Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in India. India is having world’s third largest population of HIV seropositive and remains a public health problem.
Methods: This study is based on a cross-sectional analysis of HIV surveillance data collected at ART Plus Centre, Civil Hospital Aizawl, Mizoram. The statistical analysis was performed in SPSS® Statistics (V 27.0).
Results: The gender distribution in this study is dominated by men, and the heterosexual contact is the leading mode of HIV transmission. Mizoram reported the highest national rates of HIV prevalence among FSWs and IDUs. ART adherence is better among females than male, and adherence rates are higher in older age groups than in younger ones. ART coverage is still high among elderly persons, despite their low HIV prevalence.
Conclusions: The data shows that a significant proportion of individuals diagnosed with HIV in Mizoram are receiving ART. These patterns suggest that younger population are particularly vulnerable to HIV with poor adherence to ART, possibly due to social stigma, fear of discrimination, or lack of support systems.
Optimising Green Space Locations in Mzuzu City, Malawi: Integration of GIS Multi-Criteria Analysis and Analytical Hierarchy Process
Authors: Bakolo Charles , Chilonga Davie , Chinkaka Emmanuel , Nazombe Kennedy
Published: January 2025

Urban green spaces serve as critical infrastructure for sustainable cities, yet their strategic implementation remains challenging, particularly in developing regions. This study develops a spatial decision support framework for optimal green space allocation in Mzuzu City, Malawi, employing an integrated approach of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Multi-Criteria Analysis, and Analytical Hierarchy Process. Eight environmental and socio-spatial parameters were analysed: population density, road network proximity, topographic gradient, elevation, vegetation indices, land use patterns, hydrological features, and nitrogen dioxide concentrations. The results indicate that the study area's 6.97% (1,099.65 ha) demonstrates high suitability for green space interventions, while 26.48% (4,178.68 ha) is deemed unsuitable. Population density emerged as the primary determinant, with a weight coefficient of 0.379. Spatial analysis revealed concentrated zones of high suitability in Mchengautuwa West, central-western Nkholongo/Lupaso, Masasa East, and eastern Kaning'ina, contrasting with limited opportunities in Zolozolo East and Msongwe. This research provides a replicable methodology for evidence-based urban greening initiatives in sub-Saharan African cities, contributing to equitable environmental planning and sustainable urban development.
Space and move-optimal arbitrary pattern formation on infinite rectangular grid by oblivious robot swarm
Authors: Sharma Avisek , Ghosh Satakshi , Goswami Pritam , Sau Buddhadeb
Published: January 2025

Arbitrary Pattern Formation (APF) is a fundamental coordination problem in swarm robotics. It requires a set of autonomous robots (mobile computing units) to form an arbitrary pattern (given as input) starting from any initial pattern. This problem has been extensively investigated in continuous and discrete scenarios, with this study focusing on the discrete variant. A set of robots is placed on the nodes of an infinite rectangular grid graph embedded in the euclidean plane. The movements of each robot is restricted to one of the four neighboring grid nodes from its current position. The robots are autonomous, anonymous, identical, and homogeneous, and operate Look-Compute-Move cycles. In this work, we adopt the classical OBLOT robot model, meaning the robots have no persistent memory or explicit communication methods, yet they possess full and unobstructed visibility. This work proposes an algorithm that solves the APF problem in a fully asynchronous scheduler assuming the initial configuration is asymmetric. The considered performance measures of the algorithm are space and number of moves required for the robots. The algorithm is asymptotically move-optimal. Here, we provide a definition of space complexity that takes the visibility issue into consideration. We observe an obvious lower bound D of the space complexity and show that the proposed algorithm has the space complexity D+4. On comparing with previous related works, we show that this is the first proposed algorithm considering OBLOT robot model that is asymptotically move-optimal and has the least space complexity which is almost optimal.
PREREQUISITES, PUSH FACTORS, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES OF MINI-GRIDS: A REVIEW
Authors:   Laboratoire dEnergetique et de Mecanique Appliquee (LEMA,), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences de lIngenieur, Universite dAbomey-Calavi, Benin., Ndayikeza O. ,   Faculte des Sciences de lingenieur, Universite du Burundi, Burundi., Prodjinonto V. ,   Laboratoire dEnergetique et de Mecanique Appliquee (LEMA,), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences de lIngenieur, Universite dAbomey-Calavi, Benin., Ahouansou R. ,   Laboratoire dEnergetique et de Mecanique Appliquee (LEMA,), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences de lIngenieur, Universite dAbomey-Calavi, Benin., Agbomahena M. ,   Laboratoire dEnergetique et de Mecanique Appliquee (LEMA,), Ecole Doctorale des Sciences de lIngenieur, Universite dAbomey-Calavi, Benin.
Published: January 2025

Mini-grids are considered by stakeholders in the electricity sector as one of the key solutions to accelerate the electrification process. Their development is driven by global concerns regarding climate change, the decarbonization of electrical networks, and the growing of energy demand. Among their many advantages are improved reliability, increased flexibility, and enhanced energy security. However, these mini-grids face several challenges, including high investment costs, technical complexity, regulatory constraints, and interconnection issues. This document aims to provide information on the concept of mini-grids, their classification, the push factors for their adoption for electrification, as well as lessons learned from countries that have successfully achieved electrification through mini-grids. It also presents the strategies and technologies for their development. The insights offered by this study may be useful for researchers, engineers, developers, and policymakers in designing stable, efficient, and high-performing mini-grids.
Can knowledge-based assets increase organizational performance? Evidence from village financial institutions in Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Made Rai Juniariani Ni , Soewarno Noorlailie , Rahmiati Alfa
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of knowledge-based assets, namely the ability to integrate knowledge and intellectual capital, on organizational performance. This study uses a survey approach with a sample of 313 LPDs (village financial institutions) in the province of Bali, represented by the heads of LPDs. The heads of LPDs were chosen because they are operational executors of LPD and are responsible for the development of LPD management. Data were collected using questionnaires distributed directly to LPD heads. The results of this study indicate that organizational performance is substantially and positively influenced by human capital and relational capital. Spiritual capital does not have a substantial influence on organizational performance, whereas structural capital has a negative effect. Further analysis revealed that knowledge integration capability can mediate the influence of human capital, structural capital, and relational capital. However, it cannot mediate the influence of spiritual capital on organizational performance. The research results strengthen the intellectual capital theory that intellectual capital can increase organizational performance if integrated with ability or dynamic knowledge.
O dragão e a águia: trans-formações na distribuição relativa do poder militar sino-americano (2007-2019)
Authors: Hendler Bruno , Tamiris Rosa Corrêa Gabriela
Published: January 2025

A ascensão da China marca uma mudança significativa no equilíbrio de poder global, tornando o ambiente internacional mais desafiador para os Estados Unidos (EUA). O poder das duas potências está em evolução contínua, tanto em termos absolutos quanto relativos. Apesar do surgimento de novas dinâmicas e ferramentas de influência nas relações internacionais, o poder militar permanece uma base fundamental para a sobrevivência e a projeção estatal. Isto posto, este artigo analisa as mudanças na distribuição relativa de poder militar entre os EUA e a China em dois períodos – 2007-2009 (T1) e 2017-2019 (T2) – utilizando uma metodologia mista que combina análise qualitativa e cálculos de média aritmética baseados em indicadores proxy. De forma geral, os resultados mostram que, em T1, o poder militar relativo dos EUA superava o da China em mais de três vezes. Já em T2, embora os EUA tenham mantido sua posição de destaque sem declínios absolutos significativos, a China demonstrou avanços expressivos, reduzindo a diferença para um poder militar relativo mais de duas vezes inferior ao dos EUA. Apesar desse progresso, a vantagem militar norte-americana permanece substancial, indicando que, embora a lacuna tenha diminuído, o equilíbrio de poder militar ainda favorece os EUA.
Desafios brasileiros para a revitalização da UNASUL: seria o arco da estabilidade a solução?
Authors: Raquel Rizzi Kamilla
Published: January 2025

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar como o diálogo com os países do chamado Arco da Estabilidade pode contribuir para a iniciativa brasileira de revitalização da UNASUL. Para tal, realizou-se um estudo transversal, utilizando o software Publish or Perish, a fim de identificar publicações sobre o tema, produzidas a partir de 2017 e livros sobre as áreas de segurança e defesa, da política externa brasileira e seu entorno estratégico. Além disso, foi elaborado um levantamento da posição dos países sul-americanos em rankings relativos à fragilidade do regime político e das instituições nacionais, identificando questões de delimitação de fronteiras, vulnerabilidade social, baixo desempenho da economia e porcentagem do PIB mobilizada para investimentos no setor de Defesa, todas constantes em bancos de dados internacionais. Ao final, verificou-se que mobilizar o apoio dos países do Cone Sul parece ser a estratégia mais viável para solucionar os problemas políticos, ideológicos e financeiros que, atualmente, impedem o avanço da cooperação regional.
Practical Experience of School-Based Management Development in Madrasas: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Listanto Virgiawan , Permatasari Citra
Published: January 2025

School-Based Management is a breakthrough taken by the Government of Indonesia by giving autonomy to schools to manage and make decisions in a participatory manner to improve the quality of schools. This literature review research aims to know the participants’ characteristics in the articles, the type of measurement, and school-based managementdevelopment practices in madrasah. A total of 11 articles in 2003-2022 were used to carry out this literature review taken from the Google scholar database with the help of Harzing’s Publish or Perish 8 software for data mining. The article search was done online using the keywords “School-Based Managementin Madrasah” in both English and Bahasa. The literature review results show that the participants were school committees, principals, vice principals, teachers, administration staff, students, parents, academics, and school program managers. The studies' setting is mainly in Java Island. The measurements used in the quantitative studies were questionnaires, while interview guides were used in the qualitative approach. There were mainly four points that should be underlined from reviewed articles: (1) the principal's leadership is essential in SBM to achieve school goals, (2) the teacher as SBM supporting factor must have knowledge, skills, and attitudes as well as have sufficient insight and are willing to use their potential optimally, (3) encourage the participation of school members and the community to be directly involved in providing education, and (4) needs analysis should carry out at the outset to assist planning and managing resource availability.
Modeling household's willingness to pay for sustainable rural drinking water supply using hand-pumped boreholes: a bivariate probit analysis in Chilga District, Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Nega Yitayew Malede , Taw Tefera Berihun , Mesele Marelign Adugna , Abebe Mekashaw Tareke
Published: January 2025

Access to safe drinking water remains a critical issue in rural areas of developing countries, including Ethiopia, where many communities rely on unimproved sources. This study assesses households’ willingness to pay (WTP) for improved drinking water services in rural Chilga District, Northwestern Ethiopia, focusing on hand-pumped boreholes as a sustainable solution. Using a contingent valuation method (CVM) with a double-bounded dichotomous choice format and a bivariate probit model, the study identifies key factors influencing WTP. Results reveal that female-headed households are more supportive of water improvement projects, while older respondents and those with higher perceived water quality are less likely to pay. Education significantly increases WTP, and households spending more time collecting water are more inclined to pay for improvements. Marginal effects of income on WTP suggest the need for flexible pricing models. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions, educational campaigns, and flexible bidding strategies to enhance community engagement and ensure equitable access to improved water services.