bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ РОЗВИТКУ СУЧАСНОГО ГАЗОВОГО РИНКУ ЯПОНІЇ
Authors: Музиченко М.В. , Ханова О.В.
Published: November 2023

У статті розглядаються особливості розвитку сучасного газового ринку Японії. Акцентовано увагу, що небагата на природні ресурси Японія є світовим лідером з імпорту скрапленого природного газу та має найбільші у світі потужності з регазифікації. Зазначено, що перші обсяги імпортних поставок скрапленого природного газу до Японії датуються 1959 роком, за наслідками укладання спільної угоди Tokyo Gas і Tokyo Electric Power Company з американськими компаніями Phillips Petroleum і Marathon Oil. Проаналізована структура імпортерів скрапленого природного газу до Японії з початку XXI століття до 2022 року включно. Провідними експортерами СПГ до Японії продовж досліджуваного періоду є: Індонезія, ОАЕ, Бруней, Австралія, Малайзія, тощо. Наведено динаміку власного видобутку природного газу в Японії протягом 2013-2022 рр та зроблено висновок щодо сталої тенденції до зменшення його обсягів. Основним споживачем природного газу в країні є енергетичний сектор. Зазначено, що основою політики газової безпеки Японії є диверсифікація її довгострокових контрактів на постачання та забезпечення достатньої гнучкості цих контрактів для збільшення імпорту під час надзвичайних ситуацій. Зазначено, що Японія має найбільші у світі регазифікаційні потужності. Проаналізовано найбільші з 33 регазифікаційних СПГ-терміналів Японії: Sodegaura, Futtsu LNG, Chita LNG, Senboku, Higashi-Ohgishima.
УДОСКОНАЛЕННЯ ФІНАНСОВО-ЕКОНОМІЧНОЇ БЕЗПЕКИ ПІДПРИЄМСТВА НА ОСНОВІ УПРАВЛІННЯ БІЗНЕС ПРОЦЕСАМИ
Authors: Шостак Л.В. , Сур'як А.В.
Published: November 2023

Дана стаття присвячена розгляду фінансово-економічної безпеки бізнесу на засадах управління бізнес-процесами. Авторами зазначено, що потреба захисту підприємства від негативних впливів зовнішніх чинників, наприклад нестабільність економічної чи політичної ситуації, варто здійснювати за посередництва комплексного управління його фінансово-економічною безпекою. Саме використання комплексу таких дій дозволить бізнесу цілеспрямовано розвиватись, приймати та реалізовувати ефективні управлінські рішення, мінімізувати витратну частину та підтримувати на належному рівні максимально високий рівень фінансово-економічної безпеки. Саме корелювання бізнес-процесів на перспективу захистить підприємство від негативних наслідків та ймовірностей виникнення загрозливих чинників в майбутньому. В процесі дослідження було виявлено необхідність та сформовано розподіл функцій щодо забезпечення фінансово-економічної безпеки бізнес-процесів підприємства.
ПРОФЕСІЙНИЙ ДОБІР ПЕРСОНАЛУ НА ПІДПРИЄМСТВАХ ІНДУСТРІЇ ГОСТИННОСТІ З ВИКОРИСТАННЯМ СУЧАСНИХ РЕКРУТИНГОВИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ
Authors: Хитра О.В.
Published: November 2023

У статті охарактеризована специфіка здійснення професійного добору персоналу на підприємствах індустрії гостинності з урахуванням особливих вимог до працівників, які забезпечують задоволення туристично-рекреаційних потреб сучасної людини. Досліджені основні елементи й принципи системного підходу до підбору і відбору персоналу, встановлені взаємозв’язки професійного добору з іншими функціями управління персоналом в індустрії гостинності. Увага акцентується на тому, що професійний добір на підприємствах індустрії гостинності відбувається у контексті особливого соціокультурного середовища, під впливом філософії гостинності і передбачає оцінювання емоційного інтелекту кандидатів, їх комунікаційної, часової та конфліктної компетентності. Обґрунтована точка зору, що процес професійного добору може стати більш гнучким та ефективним завдяки використанню рекрутингових технологій, що поширюються у цифровому середовищі ринку праці. Доведена доцільність формування бази рекрутерської інформації та складання профілю посади; наведені показники, за якими можна оцінювати ефективність наймання персоналу.
НАЦІОНАЛЬНІ ЕКОНОМІЧНІ ІНТЕРЕСИ В СИСТЕМІ ПЕРСПЕКТИВ КЛАСТЕРНОГО РОЗВИТКУ РЕГІОНІВ УКРАЇНИ ТА УМОВ ІНФОРМАЦІЙНОЇ ЕКОНОМІКИ
Authors: Манн Р.В.
Published: November 2023

У статті досліджено національні економічні інтереси в системі перспектив кластерного розвитку регіонів України та умов інформаційної економіки. Окреслено принципові переваги в системі заходів державного та ринкового регуляторного впливу на процеси кластероутворення в площині перспективного бачення економічного та соціального прогресу. Надано узагальнену характеристику проблем кластерного розвитку регіонів України. Зазначено, що інформаційний прогрес формує передумови розробки та впровадження інноваційно-кластерної політики, які пов’язані зі стрімким просуванням стандартів інформаційного суспільства, інформаційної економіки, державних та галузевих стандартів діджиталізації, всеосяжністю інформаційного ринку. Акцентовано увагу на відсутності в політико-економічному просторі принципів, що забезпечують реалізацію національних економічних інтересів кластерного розвитку регіонів України в умовах інформаційної економіки. Доведено, що саме кластерна модель економіки формує унікальний ресурс синергетичної побудови гармонійних відносин, балансу економічних та соціальних інтересів залучення інноваційного та інформаційного потенціалу країни в парадигмі відносин «влада-бізнес-населення-іноземний інвестор».
ENCAPSULAMENTO DE SENSOR PIEZORESISTIVO DE MEMBRANA CIRCULAR
Authors: Wachholz Luis Carlos , Rasia Luiz Antônio
Published: November 2023

Este trabalho apresenta uma concepção de encapsulamento para sensores baseados no efeito piezoresistivo que foram fabricados com a utilização de materiais simples e baratos, como Alumínio e Aço Inox através de processos de fabricação não automatizado. Esta concepção se trata de uma conexão e tampa que fixa a membrana circular através de parafusos. Foi utilizado a metodologia de pesquisa para Projeto de Desenvolvimento de Produto (PDP), onde a concepção com seu respectivo material foi projetada e modelada em Software 3D, A modelagem matemática da tensão mecânica e deslocamento mecânico máximo é descrita de forma analítica e determinada computacionalmente. Os cálculos analíticos foram baseados nas equações das placas circulares com bordas fixadas. As tensões mecânicas foram comparadas com os resultados da simulação computacional e com o cálculo analítico oriundo das equações. O deslocamento mecânico máximo foi realizado através de comparações entre os cálculos analíticos, simulação computacional e testes experimentais. Realizado a medição da resistência elétrica em intervalos pré-definidos de pressão, através de multímetro digital com 6 dígitos, com um coeficiente de segurança estipulado de 1,5. Dentre todos os dispositivos sensores fabricados validou-se os melhores em relação a concepção e material, dentro da sua faixa de pressão.
A sensorialidade auditiva na educação infantil: perspectivas para a educação musical
Authors: Borges Campos Viviane Cavalcanti
Published: November 2023

Este trabalho objetiva apresentar uma proposta pedagógica para professores de música da educação básica, com práticas musicais para serem desenvolvidas na sala de aula, na perspectiva do desenvolvimento da sensorialidade auditiva em alunos da educação infantil. Propõe o uso de instrumentos musicais, objetos sonoros, atividades corporais e canções tradicionais da infância no que se refere ao desenvolvimento da sensorialidade auditiva. Sua base teórica está ancorada em Edgar Willems, que trata do desenvolvimento auditivo sensorial, afetivo e mental; e Maria Montessori, que enfoca o desenvolvimento sensorial como meio de estimular a cognição da criança. Espera-se contribuir para o desenvolvimento do trabalho dos professores, estimulando-os a refletir e aprimorar suas ações.
PENGARUH LATIHAN DRILL TERHADAP KETEPATAN PENERIMAAN BOLA PERTAMA DALAM PERMAINAN BOLA VOLI DI EKSTRAKULIKULER SMAN 1 KADUGEDE
Authors: Wulandari Ismira Inaya
Published: November 2023

Ismira Inaya Wulandari (NIM 182223167), Program Studi Pendidikan Jasmani Kesehatan dan Rekreasi, 2022, halaman. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian eksperimen, dengan desain penelitian pre-ekperimental. Adapun sampel yang digunakan pada penelitian kali ini adalah anggota ekstrakulikuler bola voli SMAN 1 Kadugede yang berjumlah 17 orang. Pada penelitian ini menggunakan instrument menggunakan model latihan wall bouce ( latihan drill passing bawah menggunakan dinding). Produk akhir dari model latihan wall bouce adalah ketepatan penerimaan bola pertama dalam permainan bola voli. Hasil penelitian ini adalah data tentang nilai pretest dan posttest dengan, menggunakan program SPSS 25 dengan taraf signifikan 0,05. Hasil penelitian ini menu jukan bahwa nilai rata-rata pretest adalah 4.94 dan posttest adalah 6,85. Dengan nilai hasih dari uji test-t adalah 0.000 yang berarti >0,05, yang artinyaterdapat pengaruh signifikan dari program latihan yang diberikan. Dari penelitian yang telah dilakukan dapat ditarik kesimpulan bahwa model latihan drill dapat dikembangkan dan diterapan dalam proses latihan.

Kata-kata kunci : Ketepatan, Drill, Bola Pertama
Online Learning Process During the New Normal Post COVID-19 in Indonesia: A Case Study at the Universitas Negeri Padang
Authors: Erianjoni  , Beri Deski , Sudiar Okriyeni , Kasmita  , Komaini Anton , Ganefri  , Putra Aprizon , Nelwatri Helpi , Yusra Alfajri , Santi Titen Darlis
Published: November 2023

The research purpose is to see the effectiveness of online learning in Indonesia during the post-COVID-19 new normal period for 2020-2021. The research method used descriptive quantitative with the population being undergraduate students at Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP) with samples of undergraduate students in three (3) faculties, namely Language and Arts, Social Sciences, and Mathematics and Natural Sciences. The results show that the online learning process at UNP is running effectively because the online learning process has been initiated since 2013 so that lecturers and undergraduate students have sufficient insight and knowledge about online learning.
Conduits of Chaos: Social Media and Intersections of Home, School, and Community Cultures
Authors: Lane James , Robinson Shaquanah , Bowen Alyncia
Published: November 2023

Social media are a cultural leveler. Most students have cell phones, through which they may post and/or view cyberbullying threads, hate diatribes, and recordings of fights. Such posts create a toxic and symbiotic culture that seemingly transcends race and income. Closer examination suggests that social media and digital devices can be turbulent conduits that spew neighborhood chaos into schools, intersecting community and school events. Impoverished African American communities spawned by systemic racism are not immune from such dysfunction. An application of an Africana lens suggests that initial attempts to understand these phenomena from a White hegemonic perspective are inadequate and show that the issues require more detailed scrutiny. Awareness of events through an Africana cultural perspective reveal resilience and opportunities for transformation. Africana theory suggests that the infusion of social justice initiatives can transform groups into more equitable communities by creating powerful opportunities for cultural change, communication, and understanding.
Perbedaan Aktivasi Otot Trunk Pada Pola Berjalan Menggunakan Sepatu Olahraga Dan Sepatu Kantor/Kondangan
Authors: Haryatno Pajar , Romadhon Aditya Johan
Published: November 2023

Penggunaan jenis sepatu pada umumnya disesuaikan dengan kebutuhan aktivitas, khususnya para wanita penggunaan sepatu dengan hak tinggi (high heels) cenderung menjadi pilihan saat menghadiri acara pesta, berubahnya posisi netral sendi ankle akan diikuti oleh perubahan posisi dari persendian diatasnya, hal ini menyebabkan perubahan kurva tulang belakang. Penelitian ini dilakukan perekaman aktivasi otot trunk erector spinae menggunakan surface electromyograph pada subjek saat melakukan aktivitas berjalan, guna mengetahui perbandingan aktivasi otot saat berjalan menggunakan sepatu olahraga dan sepatu kantor/kondangan. Subjek yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah 100 mahasiswa jurusan Fisioterapi Politeknik Kesehatan Surakarta yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi, yang telah ditetapkan. Subjek pada penelitian ini di bagi menjadi 2 kelompok, Kelompok 1 melakukan aktivitas berjalan dengan sepatu olahraga dan Kelompok 2 berjalan dengan sepatu kantor/kondangan, pada kedua kelompok tersebut diberikan surface electromyograph pada otot trunk erector spinae selama aktivitas berjalan. rerata nilai aktivasi otot trunk erector spinae lebih besar saat subjek melakukan aktivitas berjalan menggunakan sepatu kantor/kondangan dibanding sepatu olahraga, dengan nilai kebermaknaan p< 0.05. Berjalan menggunakan sepatu kantor/kondangan lebih mengaktivasi otot trunk erector spinae sehingga menambahkan lordosis pada tulang belakang dan resiko nyeri punggung bawah.
THE EFFECT OF FAMILY SUPPORT ON SADANIS BEHAVIOR (CLINICAL BREAST EXAMINATION)
Authors: Sulistyowati Indah , Tsania Novia Putri , Nugroho Agung Satrio
Published: November 2023

For the prevention and control of cancer in Indonesia, especially breast cancer, the government has made various efforts, including early detection of breast cancer in women aged 30-50 years using the Clinical Breast Examination (Sadanis) method. It is estimated that the incidence of breast cancer in Indonesia is 82% of which are already at an advanced stage. This is due to the reluctance of women to carry out early examinations. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of family support on sadistic behavior (clinical breast examination) in women of childbearing age. The type of research used is quantitative research with an analytic survey research method and a cross sectional approach. The research sample used was women of childbearing age in RW I, Tambakharjo Village, West Semarang District, with a total of 30 respondents. Data collection using a questionnaire. Bivariate data analysis using Chi Square. From the results of the study, it was found that most of the families were supportive in Clinical Breast Examination (Sadanis) and most of the respondents did not carry out Clinical Breast Examination (Sadanis). From the data analysis using Chi Square, the value of ρ = 0.747 > 0.05 was obtained. then it is said that Ha is rejected, which means that there is no influence between Family Support on Sadanist Behavior (Clinical Breast Examination). Advice that can be given is the need for information and support from health workers so that women of childbearing age want to carry out clinical breast examination (Sadanis).
How Luxury Hotels Put Environmental Management Accounting in Practice: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Praningtyas Elisabeth Ria Viana , Suryantari Yulita
Published: November 2023

Environmental Management Accounting (EMA) has gained popularity as public awareness of environmental degradation rises due to human activities. The fight over this issue is no longer an option for any business, including tourism. The aim of this study is to deep dive into how EMA is applied in luxury hotels. These hotels offer the best services, which can become a source of conflict in the spirit of sustainable tourism. We interviewed accounting five-star hotel managers in developing countries throughout 2023 to capture the phenomenon at its finest. This study found that EMA has been installed, trained, and applied to all their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The need to give the best service didn’t hinder them from putting EMA into practice but supported them instead. This study also showed that awareness of the sustainability issue of people in developing countries is still low, hence the EMA application will help to shape the attention better. This study is among a few studies exploring the practice of EMA in luxury hotels in developed countries.
Readiness of UT Students in Supporting the Acceleration of SDGs Amid the Challenges of an Economic Recession
Authors: Radeswandri  , Berlian Mery , Thahir Musa , Vebrianto Rian , Gusti Welda
Published: November 2023

This study aims to investigate the readiness of Human Resources (HR) of Open University (UT) students in supporting the acceleration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) amidst the challenges of an economic recession.  The research methodology involves surveys and data analysis to evaluate students' understanding, views and knowledge of the role of HR in achieving the 2025 SDGs during a period of economic recession. The research results show that the majority of students have a diverse understanding of the concept of HR in the context of an economic recession and support investment in HR development. However, obstacles to access to the technology needed to support HR understanding were also identified. This research makes a new contribution by exploring the readiness of UT student human resources which was poorly understood in the previous literature. In conclusion, efforts to maximize the potential of UT students in supporting the SDGs in facing an economic recession require improved education, training, collaboration and greater technological support. These findings highlight the need for the role of higher education in preparing young people to contribute to sustainable development and overcome global economic challenges.
Virtual surgical planning/3D printing assisted fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap combined with anterolateral thigh flaps for extensive composite oromandibular defects reconstruction: a retrospective study of case series
Authors: Xu Yaoxiang , Li Yali , Xiao Wenlin , Yue Jin , Xue Lingfa , Li Li , Xu Zexian , Sun Jian
Published: November 2023

Oromandibular tumors or osteoradionecrosis often lead to extensive composite defects encompassing intraoral, bone and extraoral tissues. A single flap cannot simultaneously offer sufficient bone and soft tissue. The combination of free flaps could be a prospective approach to overcome the challenge. The study aims to assess the efficacy of virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3D printing assisted fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap (FOSCF) combined with anterolateral thigh flaps (ALT) in reconstructing extensive composite defects in the oromandibular region. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 8 patients who underwent reconstruction using FOSCFs combined with ALTs. Post-surgical excision of the lesions, we obtained mean values for the defects of intraoral soft tissue, bone, extraoral soft tissue, namely, being 42.7 cm2, 96 mm, and 68.9 cm2. The mean surgical procedures took 712.5 min. A total of 16 flaps were harvested and transplanted for the 8 patients, with all successfully surviving. Postoperatively, complications manifested as localized intraoral infections in 2 cases, intermuscular vein thrombosis in another 2 cases, and pulmonary infections in 2 patients. Two patients unfortunately experienced tumor recurrence, at 12 and 3 months post-operation respectively. For the surviving 6 patients, the average follow-up period was 12.2 months. Regarding patient satisfaction, one expressed dissatisfaction with the contour of the mandible, and two exhibited moderate trismus. Objective assessments identified 1 case of oral incontinence and 2 cases where external flap contractures were observed. All 8 patients experienced restoration of masticatory function and were able to consume a soft diet within a month post-surgery. VSP/3D printing assisted FOSCFs combined with ALTs can be performed safely to reconstruct the extensive composite tissue defects in our study, with desirable esthetic and functional results, and it is a reliable option in selecting patients with defects involving multiple tissue types. However, the benefits of this method needed more cases to validate.
Experimental study on flow resistance characteristics of the uniform steam injection outflow control device
Authors: Du Qiuying , Li Mingzhong , Liu Chenwei
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Multi-point steam injection technology is a new completion method for heavy oil horizontal wells to solve the uneven distribution of the intake profile in the horizontal section. It is equipped with the flow control device to achieve the effect of balanced steam injection.

Methods: The steady-state experiment method was adopted; Considering the variable mass complex flow of the steam–liquid two-phase flow in the downhole flow device, the pressure loss of downhole tools through uniform steam injection with different steam–liquid compositions was tested, the influencing factors of the pressure drop were analyzed, and a more reliable pressure drop calculation method was established.

Results: The overflow pressure drop can be adjusted by changing the aperture, steam dryness, and fluid flow of the downhole outflow control device (OCD).

Discussion: By comparing the experimental and theoretical results, the calculation method of the overflow resistance of single-phase and steam–liquid two-phase fluids in OCD is given, and the error is within the usable range.
The role of fibrinolysis in the development of prediabetes-associated coronary heart disease: a focus on the plasminogen activator inhibitor -1 and its potential use as a predictive marker in diet-induced prediabetes
Authors: Gumede Nompumelelo , Khathi Andile
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, the onset of T2DM is preceded by prediabetes, which is associated with sedentary lifestyles and consumption of high-calorie diets. Studies have shown that impaired glucose homeostasis creates an environment for developing T2DM-related complications. Using a high-fat-high-carbohydrate diet-induced prediabetes animal model, this study sought to assess the risk factors of coronary heart disease (CHD) in diet-induced prediabetes and identify biomarkers that can be used for early detection of prediabetes-associated CHD.

Methods

Male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly grouped into two groups and were kept on different diets for 20 weeks (n = 6 in each group). One group was fed standard rat chow to serve as a non-prediabetes (NPD) control, while the other group consumed a high-fat-high-carbohydrate diet to induce prediabetes (PD). Post induction, the homeostasis model assessment- insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) was used to test for insulin resistance. Body weight, mean arterial pressure (MAP), resting heart rate (HR), inflammatory cytokines (C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6)), lipids (total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), lipoproteins (HDL, LDL, VLDL)), endothelial function (endothelial nitric oxide (eNOS), endothelin -1 (ET-1)), fibrinolysis (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1)) were all measured to assess the risk of CHD. All data were expressed as means ± S.E.M. Statistical comparisons were performed with Graph Pad. Instat Software using Student’s two-sided t-test. The Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression were calculated to assess the association. The value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There was significant insulin resistance accompanied by significantly increased HbA1c and body weight in PD compared to NPD. Simultaneously, there was a significant increase in inflammatory cytokines in PD compared to NPD. This was accompanied by significantly increased TG and VLDL and endothelial dysfunction in PD. The association between HOMA-IR and PAI-1 was insignificantly positive in NPD, whereas a significantly strong positive association was observed in PD.

Conclusion

There is a positive correlation between insulin resistance and PAI-1 during prediabetes; therefore, suggesting that prediabetes increases the risk of developing vascular thrombosis. The current therefore study warrants further investigation on PAI-1 and other markers of fibrinolysis for the early detection of thrombosis and risk of CHD in prediabetes.
Community-based programs for youth with mental health conditions: a scoping review and practical implications
Authors: Tuaf Hila , Orkibi Hod
Published: November 2023

Background

Approximately 14% of all adolescents globally cope with mental health conditions. However, community-based psychosocial services for adolescents with mental health conditions are scarce and under-researched. Scant scholarly attention has been paid to leisure and/or social activities in community-based rehabilitation services for adolescents with mental health conditions.

Objectives

To begin to fill this gap, we chose a bottom-up framework to probe the following questions: Which community-based programs for adolescents with mental health conditions exist worldwide? What common characteristics do they present? What is their range of services?

Method

We systematically searched three leading academic databases, reference lists, and worldwide websites in English.

Eligibility criteria

Programs with information in English that provide services in a community setting, service content that includes leisure and/or social activities, cater to users aged 10–18, and content explicitly targets adolescents with mental health conditions.

Results

Twenty-seven psychosocial programs that provide leisure and/or social activities and encourage the promotion of adolescent mental health in the community were identified. We mapped and categorized the programs into three groups: integrated recovery, leisure recovery, and advocacy recovery.

Conclusion

Practical implications for implementation are suggested based on the findings. Specifically, service providers should attend to the psychological needs of adolescents by prioritizing peer interaction and offering suitable social and leisure activities. These activities can also boost adolescent participation in community-based rehabilitation programs and address the treatment gap. Comprehensive studies and uniform terminology in the field are needed.
The Expression of Two Distinct Sets of Glycolytic Enzymes Reveals Differential Effects of Glycolytic Reprogramming on Pancreatic Ductal Tumorigenesis in Mice
Authors: Zhang Yannan , Zheng Fangfang , Wang Fan , Liu Xingqian , Xiang Cong , Fu Shiyu , Shen Kun , Liu Geng
Published: November 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with enhanced aerobic glycolysis through elevated glucose uptake and the upregulated expression of genes encoding rate-limiting glycolytic enzymes. However, the direct impact of altered glycolytic pathways on pancreatic tumor progression has not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we utilized two strains of BAC transgenic mice with pancreatic expression of two distinct sets of glycolytic genes each arranged in a polycistronic fashion (PFKFB3-HK2-GLUT1 and LDHA-PDK1, respectively) to investigate the role of altered glycolysis on the development of pancreatic ductal tumor development in the Pdx1-Cre; LSL-KrasG12D mice. The overexpression of the two sets of glycolytic genes exhibited no significant effects on tumor development in the 4–5-month-old mice (the PanIN2 lesions stage). In the 9–10-month-old mice, the overexpression of PFKFB3-HK2-GLUT1 significantly accelerated PanIN3 progression, exhibiting elevated levels of ductal cell marker CK19 and tumor fibrosis. Surprisingly, the overexpression of LDHA-PDK1 significantly attenuated the progression of PanIN3 in the 9–10-month-old mice with significantly downregulated levels of CK19 and fibrosis. Therefore, distinct set of glycolytic enzymes that are involved in different glycolytic routes exhibited contrasting effects on pancreatic ductal tumor development depending on the tumor stages, providing novel insights into the complexity of the glycolytic pathway in the perspective of PDAC development and therapy.
Exploring Circulating Long Non-Coding RNAs in Mild Cognitive Impairment Patients’ Blood
Authors: De Felice Bruna , Coppola Cinzia , Bonavita Simona , Signoriello Elisabetta , Montanino Concetta , Farinella Federica
Published: November 2023

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a transitional clinical stage prior to dementia. Patients with amnestic MCI have a high risk of progression toward Alzheimer’s disease. Both amnestic mild cognitive impairment and sporadic Alzheimer’s disease are multifactorial disorders consequential from a multifaceted cross-talk among molecular and biological processes. Non-coding RNAs play an important role in the regulation of gene expression, mainly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), that regulate other RNA transcripts through binding microRNAs. Cross-talk between RNAs, including coding RNAs and non-coding RNAs, produces a significant regulatory network all through the transcriptome. The relationship of genes and non-coding RNAs could improve the knowledge of the genetic factors contributing to the predisposition and pathophysiology of MCI. The objective of this study was to identify the expression patterns and relevant lncRNA-associated miRNA regulatory axes in the blood of MCI patients, which includes lncRNA-SNHG16, lncRNA-H19, and lncRNA-NEAT1. Microarray investigations have demonstrated modifications in the expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) in the blood of patients with MCI compared with control samples. This is the first study to explore lncRNA profiles in mild cognitive impairment blood. Our study proposes RNAs targets involved in molecular pathways connected to the pathogenesis of MCI.
Associations between Rest–Activity Rhythms and Liver Function Tests: The US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2011–2014
Authors: Yeung Chris Ho Ching , Bauer Cici , Xiao Qian
Published: November 2023

Liver functions are regulated by the circadian rhythm; however, whether a weakened circadian rhythm is associated with impaired liver function is unclear. This study aims to investigate the association of characteristics of rest–activity rhythms with abnormal levels of biomarkers of liver function. Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2014. Seven rest–activity rhythm parameters were derived from 24 h actigraphy data using the extended cosine model and non-parametric methods. Multiple logistic regression and multiple linear regression models were used to assess the associations between rest–activity rhythm parameters and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transaminase (GGT), albumin and bilirubin. Weakened overall rhythmicity characterized by a lower F statistic was associated with higher odds of abnormally elevated ALP (ORQ1vs.Q5: 2.16; 95% CI 1.19, 3.90) and GGT (ORQ1vs.Q5: 2.04; 95% CI 1.30, 3.20) and abnormally lowered albumin (ORQ1vs.Q5: 5.15; 95% CI 2.14, 12.38). Similar results were found for a lower amplitude, amplitude:mesor ratio, interdaily stability and intradaily variability. Results were robust to the adjustment of confounders and cannot be fully explained by individual rest–activity behaviors, including sleep and physical activity. Weakened rest–activity rhythms were associated with worse liver function as measured by multiple biomarkers, supporting a potential role of circadian rhythms in liver health.
FPGA-Based PUF Designs: A Comprehensive Review and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Lata Kusum , Cenkeramaddi Linga Reddy
Published: November 2023

Field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) have firmly established themselves as dynamic platforms for the implementation of physical unclonable functions (PUFs). Their intrinsic reconfigurability and profound implications for enhancing hardware security make them an invaluable asset in this realm. This groundbreaking study not only dives deep into the universe of FPGA-based PUF designs but also offers a comprehensive overview coupled with a discerning comparative analysis. PUFs are the bedrock of device authentication and key generation and the fortification of secure cryptographic protocols. Unleashing the potential of FPGA technology expands the horizons of PUF integration across diverse hardware systems. We set out to understand the fundamental ideas behind PUF and how crucially important it is to current security paradigms. Different FPGA-based PUF solutions, including static, dynamic, and hybrid systems, are closely examined. Each design paradigm is painstakingly examined to reveal its special qualities, functional nuances, and weaknesses. We closely assess a variety of performance metrics, including those related to distinctiveness, reliability, and resilience against hostile threats. We compare various FPGA-based PUF systems against one another to expose their unique advantages and disadvantages. This study provides system designers and security professionals with the crucial information they need to choose the best PUF design for their particular applications. Our paper provides a comprehensive view of the functionality, security capabilities, and prospective applications of FPGA-based PUF systems. The depth of knowledge gained from this research advances the field of hardware security, enabling security practitioners, researchers, and designers to make wise decisions when deciding on and implementing FPGA-based PUF solutions.
Does Equine Interaction Facilitate Emotional Safety and Learning for College Students within an Agricultural-Based Classroom?
Authors: Holtcamp Katie , Nicodemus Molly C. , Phillips Tommy , Christiansen David , Rude Brian J. , Ryan Peter L. , Galarneau Karen
Published: November 2023

Effective teaching requires an educational environment that promotes learning, and yet, developing such an environment can be challenging within today’s agricultural-based classroom for educators due to the trend to a more virtual teaching format and less hands-on learning. Animal interaction, particularly equine activities, has been shown to assist educators in the development of an emotionally safe environment for promoting learning. However, research is lacking as to whether the interaction with the animal needs to be direct or indirect within the collegiate educational environment to observe benefits. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the impact of equine interaction, both direct and indirect, within an educational environment on the emotional safety and learning for the college student within the agricultural-based classroom. Three course types were observed within the agricultural-based educational environment that included courses with no equine interaction (Group A) and courses with equine interaction, both direct (Group B) and indirect (Group C) interaction with the horse. Indirect interaction included items such as observation of equine handling via a video or gaining knowledge from reading online materials, but not engaging in direct, hands-on activities with the horse. Development of emotional safety within the students enrolled within these courses was measured using a self-reporting emotional safety evaluation. Due to the structure of the scale, a decrease in emotional safety indicated a positive change. Learning, both development of semantic and procedural memory, was measured using a student-completed knowledge examination and an instructor-completed skill evaluation, respectively. While significant improvement in emotional safety was not observed within any of the course types, a weak negative correlation was found between emotional safety and semantic memory for students enrolled in equine courses, both direct (R = −0.55, R2 = 0.28) and indirect (R = −0.25, R2 = 0.06) interaction, finding as emotional safety scores lowered to the ideal range that knowledge improved. In addition, students within equine courses showed semantic memory development in specific areas of equine sciences (Group B: Grooming/Tacking, p = 0.03; Group C: Equine Behavior, p = 0.04) and direct equine interaction resulted in development of equine-based procedural memory in all four skill areas measured within the study (p = 0.00). As such, learning is promoted through equine interaction, whether direct or indirect interaction, within the agricultural-based classroom, suggesting that both forms of equine interaction can be a valuable educational tool for the instructor within the collegiate setting.
Fractional Complex Euler–Lagrange Equation: Nonconservative Systems
Authors: Toma Antonela , Postavaru Octavian
Published: November 2023

Classical forbidden processes paved the way for the description of mechanical systems with the help of complex Hamiltonians. Fractional integrals of complex order appear as a natural generalization of those of real order. We propose the complex fractional Euler-Lagrange equation, obtained by finding the stationary values associated with the fractional integral of complex order. The complex Hamiltonian obtained from the Lagrangian is suitable for describing nonconservative systems. We conclude by presenting the conserved quantities attached to Noether symmetries corresponding to complex systems. We illustrate the theory with the aid of the damped oscillatory system.
Machine Learning for Sarcopenia Prediction in the Elderly Using Socioeconomic, Infrastructure, and Quality-of-Life Data
Authors: Seok Minje , Kim Wooseong , Kim Jiyoun
Published: November 2023

Since the WHO’s 2021 aging redefinition emphasizes “healthy aging” by focusing on the elderly’s ability to perform daily activities, sarcopenia, which is defined as the loss of skeletal muscle mass, is now becoming a critical health concern, especially in South Korea with a rapidly aging population. Therefore, we develop a prediction model for sarcopenia by using machine learning (ML) techniques based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) data 2008–2011, in which we focus on the role of socioeconomic status (SES), social infrastructure, and quality of life (QoL) in the prevalence of sarcopenia. We successfully identify sarcopenia with approximately 80% accuracy by using random forest (RF) and LightGBM (LGB), CatBoost (CAT), and a deep neural network (DNN). For prediction reliability, we achieve area under curve (AUC) values of 0.831, 0.868, and 0.773 for both genders, males, and females, respectively. Especially when using only male data, all the models consistently exhibit better performance overall. Furthermore, using the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis, we find several common key features, which mainly contribute to model building. These include SES features, such as monthly household income, housing type, marriage status, and social infrastructure accessibility. Furthermore, the causal relationships of household income, per capita neighborhood sports facility area, and life satisfaction are analyzed to establish an effective prediction model for sarcopenia management in an aging population.
Grappling with Issues of Motherhood for Women with Schizophrenia
Authors: Seeman Mary V.
Published: November 2023

Despite the fact that most persons with schizophrenia find steady employment difficult to sustain, many women with this diagnosis embrace and fulfill the most difficult task of all—motherhood. The aim of this paper is to specify the challenges of motherhood in this population and review the treatment strategies needed to keep mothers and children safe, protecting health and fostering growth. The review addresses concerns that had been brought to the author’s earlier attention during her clinical involvement with an outpatient clinic for women with psychosis. It is, thus, a non-systematic, narrative review of topic areas subjectively assessed as essential to “good enough” mothering in the context of schizophrenia. Questions explored are the stigma against motherhood in this population, mothers’ painful choices, issues of contraception, abortion, child custody, foster care and kin placement of children, the effects of antipsychotics, specific perinatal delusional syndromes, and, finally, the availability of parental support. This review is intended for clinicians. Recommendations are that care providers work collaboratively with mothers, take note of their strengths as well as their failings, offer a wide array of family services, monitor households closely for safety and for treatment adherence, appreciating the many challenges women with schizophrenia face daily.
A Narrative Review of Health Status and Healthcare Delivery in the Oil and Gas Industry: Impacts on Employees, Employers, and Local Communities
Authors: Fox Jordan L. , Gurney Tiana , Kondalsamy-Chennakesavan Srinivas , Pols Thomas A. H. , Tuffaha Haitham , Pak Anton , McGrail Matthew
Published: November 2023

Workers in the oil and gas industry are exposed to numerous health risks, ranging from poor health behaviours to the possibility of life-threatening injuries. Determining the most appropriate models of healthcare for the oil and gas industry is difficult, as strategies must be acceptable to multiple stakeholders, including employees, employers, and local communities. The purpose of this review was to broadly explore the health status and needs of workers in the oil and gas industry and healthcare delivery models relating to primary care and emergency responses. Database searches of PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus were conducted, as well as grey literature searches of Google, Google Scholar, and the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers website. Resource-sector workers, particularly those in ‘fly-in fly-out’ roles, are susceptible to poor health behaviours and a higher prevalence of mental health concerns than the general population. Evidence is generally supportive of organisation-led behaviour change and mental health-related interventions. Deficiencies in primary care received while on-site may lead workers to inappropriately use local health services. For the provision of emergency medical care, telehealth and telemedicine lead to favourable outcomes by improving patient health status and satisfaction and reducing the frequency of medical evacuations.
Antibacterial Activity of Oxygen Vacancy-Mediated ROS Production of V6O13 Powder against Candida albicans
Authors: Liu Li , Li Siyu , Shi Detai , Bao Qifu , Zhao Tiangui , Zhu Wei , Li Xiaolong , Zhou Jianer
Published: November 2023

The emergence of drug resistance due to the overuse of antibiotics has made the prevention and treatment of invasive fungal infections caused by Candida albicans (C. albicans) a great challenge. Oxygen vacancy-rich inorganic materials show great promise in the antimicrobial field due to their unique physicochemical properties. Defect engineering can significantly optimize the electronic structure of inorganic materials to further enhance their antimicrobial activity. We designed oxygen vacancy defect-rich V6O13 powders using the hydrothermal-calcination method and investigated their anti-C. albicans activity. The results showed that the stronger antibacterial activity is attributed to the fact that the optimized V6O13 powder oxygen vacancy defects induced a reduction reaction of dissolved oxygen in the environment, which produced ROS with strong oxidative properties, causing damage to the wall membrane of C. albicans and leakage of intracellular material. The minimum inhibitory concentration (99% or more inhibition) of V6O13 powders is 4 mg/mL. This work not only provides a facile method for constructing oxygen-rich vacancies in V6O13 powders, but also provides new insights into the potential of inorganic materials optimized by defect engineering for efficient antimicrobial activity.
Tensile Properties of Aluminum Matrix Composites Produced via a Nitrogen-Induced Self-Forming Process
Authors: Lee Kon-Bae , Nayak Kanhu C. , Shim Cheol-Hwee , Lee Hye-In , Kim Se-Hoon , Choi Hyun-Joo , Ahn Jae-Pyoung
Published: November 2023

This study compares the tensile properties of commercial aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) with those of AMCs produced via a nitrogen-induced self-forming process. This process is a newly developed AMCs manufacturing process that takes advantage of the price competitiveness and productivity of large-scale products produced via the liquid process. Additionally, this process has the freedom of choice of the reinforcement phase and the homogeneous dispersibility of the powder process. Compared to commercial monolithic 6061 alloys, 6061 aluminum alloy matrix composites exhibit increased Young’s modulus, yield strength, and ultimate tensile strength by 59%, 66%, and 81%, respectively. This study also compares the tensile properties of AMCs with different matrix compositions, including 2009 and 7050 aluminum alloys. The study shows that AMCs produced using the nitride-induced self-forming aluminum composite (NISFAC) process exhibit comparable or superior tensile properties to those obtained using existing commercial powder metallurgy (P/M) processes.
A Multi-Ship Collision Avoidance Algorithm Using Data-Driven Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Niu Yihan , Zhu Feixiang , Wei Moxuan , Du Yifan , Zhai Pengyu
Published: November 2023

Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) are becoming of interest to the maritime sector and are also on the agenda of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). With the boom in global maritime traffic, the number of ships is increasing rapidly. The use of intelligent technology to achieve autonomous collision avoidance is a hot issue widely discussed in the industry. In the endeavor to solve this problem, multi-ship coordinated collision avoidance has become a crucial challenge. This paper proposes a multi-ship autonomous collision avoidance decision-making algorithm by a data-driven method and adopts the Multi-agent Deep Reinforcement Learning (MADRL) framework for its design. Firstly, the overall framework of this paper and its components follow the principle of “reality as primary and simulation as supplementary”, so a real data-driven AIS (Automatic Identification System) dominates the model construction. Secondly, the agent’s observation state is determined by quantifying the hazardous area. Then, based on a full understanding of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the preliminary data collection, this paper combines the statistical results of the real water traffic data to guide and design the algorithm framework and selects the representative influencing factors to be designed in the collision avoidance decision-making algorithm’s reward function. Next, we train the algorithmic model using both real data and simulation data. Meanwhile, Prioritized Experience Replay (PER) is adopted to accelerate the model’s learning efficiency. Finally, 40 encounter scenarios are designed and extended to verify the algorithm performance based on the idea of the Imazu problem. The experimental results show that this algorithm can efficiently make a ship collision avoidance decision in compliance with COLREGs. Multi-agent learning through shared network policies can ensure that the agents pass beyond the safe distance in unknown environments. We can apply the trained model to the system with different numbers of agents to provide a reference for the research of autonomous collision avoidance in ships.