bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Challenges and Future of Environmental Archaeology in Mauritius
Authors: Pluskowski Aleksander , Brown Alexander , Seetah Krish
Published: January 2024

This paper considers the value of past and prospective applications of key environmental archaeological and earth science fields relating to the historical ecology of Mauritius and the Mascarene islands more broadly: palaeoecology, geoarchaeology, zooarchaeology and climate studies. The contribution of each subfield is outlined with the aim of demonstrating the potential value of an integrated environmental archaeological approach for developing a long-term understanding of the human ecology of Mauritius and its associated islands. The paper considers the potential and limitations of existing approaches and data, as well as future challenges. Beyond solely reconstructing the nuances of anthropogenic impact on the environment in relation to the island’s history of settlement, we argue that environmental archaeology can contribute to an understanding of “biocultural diversity” as an integral element of Mauritian heritage, bridging the divide between cultural and natural heritage.
Antler Allometry, the Irish Elk and Gould Revisited
Authors: Tsuboi Masahito , Kopperud Bjørn Tore , Matschiner Michael , Grabowski Mark , Syrowatka Christine , Pélabon Christophe , Hansen Thomas F.
Published: January 2024

The huge antlers of the extinct Irish elk have invited evolutionary speculation since Darwin. In the 1970s, Stephen Jay Gould presented the first extensive data on antler size in the Irish elk and combined these with comparative data from other deer to test the hypothesis that the gigantic antlers were the outcome of a positive allometry that constrained large-bodied deer to have proportionally even larger antlers. He concluded that the Irish elk had antlers as predicted for its size and interpreted this within his emerging framework of developmental constraints as an explanatory factor in evolution. Here we reanalyze antler allometry based on new morphometric data for 57 taxa of the family Cervidae. We also present a new phylogeny for the Cervidae, which we use for comparative analyses. In contrast to Gould, we find that the antlers of Irish elk were larger than predicted from the allometry within the true deer, Cervini, as analyzed by Gould, but follow the allometry across Cervidae as a whole. After dissecting the discrepancy, we reject the allometric-constraint hypothesis because, contrary to Gould, we find no similarity between static and evolutionary allometries, and because we document extensive non-allometric evolution of antler size across the Cervidae.
Bio-actives and COVID-19: a production of sustainable fermented ginger beer and probiotic fruit drinks as a plausible approach for boosting the immune system
Authors: Gaonkar Sanket K. , Nadaf Zakiya , Nayak Shruti , Desai Gaokar Rasika , Borkar Sunita
Published: January 2024

In December 2019, a novel coronavirus SARS CoV-2 caused COVID-19 in more than 200 countries. The infection had high mortality and morbidity rates with no specific approved antiviral drugs. Isolation, appropriate hygiene measures, and treatment were the most efficient ways to prevent infections. Interestingly, plants, sponges, corals, and microorganisms remain a plentiful source of natural bio-actives for treating different human illnesses and COVID-19. We herein retrieved literature from PubMed.gov, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar relevant to anti-COVID-19 metabolites by searching with the keywords "SARS-CoV-2" and "Bio-actives from plants/marine invertebrates/microbes" till November 2023. The study briefly covered SARS-CoV-2, its variants, therapeutics, and intervention for COVID-19 infection. This study also aimed to develop low-calorie probiotic-rich fermented ginger beer and fruit juices to use as an immunity booster to fight against multiple viral infections. Only literature pertinent to the topic was included, and those not available as full text and duplicate sources with similar titles and content were excluded. The comprehensive findings of the present study are essential to make national-level policy decisions on both beneficiaries of natural bio-actives to improve health by consuming herbal low-calorie fermented products during such needy hours.
Minimum Noise Fraction and Long Short-Term Memory Model for Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Dash Satyabrata , Chakravarty Sujata , Giri Nimay Chandra , Agyekum Ephraim Bonah , AboRas Kareem M.
Published: January 2024

In recent years, deep learning techniques have presented a major role in hyperspectral image (HSI) classification. Most commonly Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) has greatly advanced the accuracy of hyperspectral image classification, making it powerful tool for remote sensing applications. Deep structure learning, which involves multiple layers of neural network, has shown promising results in effectively addressing nonlinear problems and improving classification accuracy and reduce execution time. The exact categorization of ground topographies from hyperspectral data is a crucial and current research topic that has gotten a lot of attention. This research work focuses on hyperspectral image categorization utilizing several machine learning approaches such as support vector machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbour (KNN), CNN and LSTM. To reduce the number of superfluous and noisy bands in the dataset, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Minimum Noise Fraction (MNF) were utilized. Different performance evaluation measures like time taken for testing, classification accuracy, kappa accuracy, precision, recall, specificity, F1_score, and Gmean have been taken to prove the efficacy of the models. Based on the simulation results, it is observed that the LSTM model outperforms the other models in terms of accuracy percentage and time consumption, making it the most effective model for classifying hyperspectral imaging datasets.
Unified Language for Knowledge Dissemination: The Vascular Ageing Glossary, an Initiative by VascAgeNet
Authors: Bianchini Elisabetta , Climie Rachel E. , Mayer Christopher Clemens , Martina Maria Raffaella , Nandi Manasi , Schmidt-Trucksäss Arno , Segers Patrick , Park Chloe , Pucci Giacomo , Terentes-Printzios Dimitrios , Charlton Peter H. ,   for VascAgeNet
Published: January 2024

Objectives

In general, a terminology shared and agreed by different stakeholders is important to facilitate communication and cooperation. This holds true in the field of vascular ageing for the benefit of global cardiovascular health. The need to promote a common language and understanding across this area was recognised by VascAgeNet, a collaborative network with relevant and diverse expertise in the vascular ageing field, supported by the European Cooperation in Science and Technology. To contribute to the spread of unified terms in the vascular ageing field, a glossary was created by VascAgeNet and this paper describes the systematic process used for its development.

Methods

An initial list of terms and preliminary definitions were collated from the network. A dedicated team was created to design the glossary development process, to facilitate its implementation and to maximise outreach and dissemination. The key steps of the process were to determine: (1) the target audience; (2) a list of priority terms; (3) a template structure for definitions; (4) methods for collecting feedback and (5) the dissemination plan.

Results

An implementation strategy was provided for each key step and shared within the network; main decisions were agreed by all members of the glossary team. Small groups of definitions were released on a regular basis within a pilot phase including 19 terms (status: 05.09.2023) that were published openly at https://vascagenet.eu/official-glossary.

Conclusions

The strategy for creating the first Vascular Ageing Glossary has been successfully designed and developed within VascAgeNet. A pilot phase covering the first publicly available terms was completed. The glossary is a living document, available to the scientific community, which aims to unify the vascular ageing language.
Exploratory spatial analysis: Understanding the geography of risks for trafficking and preventive efforts through the implementation of kNOw MORE!—: an educational program in middle and high schools in San Diego, California
Authors: Richie-Zavaleta Arduizur Carli , Lutrzykowski Ryan Christopher , Fong Barragan Monserrat
Published: January 2024

Human trafficking (HT) violates human rights and brings long-lasting consequences for victims. This study aimed to geographically and statistically analyze (1) the implementation of a youth educational prevention program, kNOw MORE! (kM!) located in San Diego County (SD); (2) clusters of student participants who desired to talk further about trafficking after participating in kM!; (3) clusters of SD regions that included protective factors based on mental and social services for survivors of HT and similar populations; and (4) the low and high risk clusters for trafficking within SD. kM! is a preventive program that seeks to increase knowledge and self-efficacy to prevent trafficking. kM! is designed to increase knowledge and self-efficacy among middle and high school students to prevent HT. Databases used included the U.S. Census, the California Longitudinal Pupil Achievement Data System, kM!’s (2016–2020), among others. Results indicate that kM! was implemented throughout the six regions of SD. These presentations reached a total of N = 11,586 participants. Analysis of ZIP codes highlighted the South and East regions as representing the highest cluster for kM!’s presentations. Central, North Inland, and South Regions of SD are among the ones with highest percentiles of HT vulnerability scores. Regarding protective factors, the Central Region of San Diego contains the highest clustering of mental health and social services. These findings can assist diverse stakeholders and leaders to geographically strategize their anti-trafficking efforts. However, complete and uniform open databases at multiple levels are required to best inform the associations between geographical spaces and HT vulnerability.
COVID-19 knowledge and mental health impact assessment in Haiti
Authors: Park Taehwan , Pierre-Louis Jean , Jean Tachel , Barua Prachurjya , Ilma Taheera T. , Pinanez Mariana A. , Ravenell Joseph , Castor Chimene , Gousse Yolene
Published: January 2024

Mental health is a significant public health challenge globally, and one anticipated to increase following the COVID-19 pandemic. In many rural regions of developing nations, little is known about the prevalence of mental health conditions and factors that may help mitigate poor outcomes. This study assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and social support for residents of rural Haiti. Data were collected from March to May 2020. The Patient Health Questionnaire subscales for anxiety and depression, and the Perceived Stress Scale were utilized in addition to tailored questions specific to COVID-19 knowledge. Half (51.8%) of the 500 survey respondents reported COVID-19-related anxiety and worrying either daily or across a few days. Half (50.2%) also reported experiencing depression daily or across several days. Most (70.4%) did not have any social support, and 28.0% experienced some stress, with 13.4% indicating high perceived stress. Furthermore, 4.6% had suitable plumbing systems in their homes. The results were immediately actionable, informing the implementation of a mental health counseling program for youth following a loss of social support through school closures. Long-term investments must be made as part of public health responses in rural communities in developing nations, which remain under-studied.
Canonization and sacred text in the Yārsān religion
Authors: Veisi Hasar Rahman
Published: January 2024

This paper explains the nature of sacred text and the process of canonization in the Yārsān religion. To this end, we first show how three formative ideas—i.e., the history of divine manifestation, the angelology of scribing, and the scripture of Qabālah—played a major role in the emergence of canonization and sacred text in the Yārsān religion. We then turn to the parallel, heterogeneous processes of canonization in the Yārsān community, showing that factors such as the community's rhizomatic structure, idea of infinite divine manifestation, continuous process of producing holy texts, and the heterogeneous nature of its oral tradition hindered the emergence of an ultimate canon in the Yārsān community. Additionally, the sacred Yārsān texts, as the outputs of canonization procedures, are divided into three categories: narrative, testimony, and ritual. Finally, following scrutiny of the linguistic nature of Gorāni koine, the paper attempts to clarify the relationship between different types of religious texts and the formative idea of Qabālah as the archetypal sacred text in the Yārsān religion.
Orli Fridman, Memory Activism and Digital Practices after Conflict: Unwanted Memories
Authors: Dragović-Soso Jasna
Published: January 2024

A pioneering book on an important novel subject, Memory Activism and Digital Practices after Conflict presents a thorough and detailed overview of memory activism in Serbia over the last 20 years, across two generations. First of all, the book traces the transition from anti-war and human rights activism to ‘first-generation memory activism’, by examining the trajectory of the NGO Women in Black created in the 1990s to protest against Serbian nationalism, Milošević's war policy and Serb war crimes in the Yugoslav wars. The turn to what could be defined as memory activism grew organically out of this initial anti-nationalist and anti-war struggle, gaining traction following the deep disappointment felt by many in the Serbian alternative with the continuities in Serbia's institutions and social structures after the fall of Milošević in 2000, the official silence and denial of war crimes, and the unfulfilled promises of transitional justice in the region.
Plane polarisation in Comptonization process: A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Kumar Nagendra
Published: January 2024

High energies emissions observed in X-ray binaries (XRBs), active galactic nuclei (AGNs) are linearly polarised. The prominent mechanism for X-ray is the Comptonization process. We revisit the theory for polarisation in Compton scattering with unpolarised electrons and note that the (

$k \times k^{\prime}$

)-coordinate (in which, (

$k \times k^{\prime}$

) acts as a z-axis, here k and k′ are incident and scattered photon momentum, respectively) is more convenient to describe it. Interestingly, for a fixed scattering plane the degree of polarisation PD after single scattering for randomly oriented low-energy unpolarised incident photons is

$\sim$

0.33. At the scattering angle

$\theta$

= 0 or

$\theta \equiv$

[0,25

$^{\circ}$

], the modulation curve of k′ exhibits the same PD and PA (angle of polarisation) of k, and even the distribution of projection of electric vector of k′ (

$k^{\prime}_{e}$

) on perpendicular plane to the k indicates same (so, an essential criteria for detector designing). We compute the polarisation state in Comptonization process using Monte Carlo methods with considering a simple spherical corona. We obtain the PD of emergent photons as a function of

$\theta$

-angle (or alternatively, the disc inclination angle i) on a meridian plane (i.e. the laws of darkening, formulated by Chandrasekhar (1946, ApJ, 103, 351) after single scattering with unpolarised incident photons. To explore the energy dependency we consider a general spectral parameter set corresponding to hard and soft states of XRBs, we find that for average scattering no.

$\langle N_{sc}\rangle$

$\sim$

1.1 the PD is independent of energy and PA

$\sim 90^{\circ}$

(

$k^{\prime}_{e}$

is parallel to the disc plane), and for

$\langle N_{sc}\rangle$

$\sim$

5 the PD value is maximum for

$i=45^{\circ}$

. We also compare the results qualitatively with observation of IXPE for five sources.
Which training leads to employment? The effectiveness of varying types of training programmes for unemployed jobseekers in Flanders
Authors: Wood Jonas , Neels Karel , Vujić Sunčica
Published: January 2024

Despite the large body of ALMP evaluations focussing on isolated training programmes for unemployed jobseekers, our understanding of potential reasons for (in)effectiveness remains limited. Specific training programmes aim to remediate particular supply- or demand-side barriers to employment experienced by targeted jobseekers. Consequently, this study unpacks training into four different types: (I) general classroom training (GCT) to enhance motivation and job search skills, (II) occupation-specific classroom training (OCT) addressing gaps in human capital, (III) non-contractual workplace training (NCWT) combining human capital acquisition with workplace experience, and (IV) contractual workplace training (CWT) additionally including a temporary wage subsidy to reduce hiring costs for employers. Using large-scale longitudinal register data, dynamic propensity score matching, and hazard models indicate positive effects of OCT participation, and particularly NCWT programmes allowing human and social capital accumulation in a workplace setting, on the transition into (stable) regular employment. In contrast, the non-effects for GCT participants highlight the need for more follow-up programmes, and the fact that, after controlling for the selective recruitment by employers of unemployed jobseekers with relatively strong profiles, CWT programme participants show moderate, short-lived positive effects which might inspire policymakers to reconsider programme assignment in light of cream-skimming by employers.
Redesigning Prehospital Care: Fiji’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Creaton Anne , Naitini Ilikini , Lenoa Lemecki
Published: January 2024

The benefits of emergency care systems in low- and middle-income countries are well-described. Passed in the wake of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the World Health Assembly (WHA) Resolution 76.2 emphasizes the importance of communication, transportation and referral mechanisms, and the linkages between communities, primary care, and hospital care. Literature describing prehospital care and ambulance system development is scarce, with little data on the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of different options. Prehospital care systems in Pacific Island countries are under-developed. In Fiji, out-of-hospital care is fragmented with an uncoordinated patchwork of ambulance providers. There is no scope of practice or training requirement for providers and no patient care records. There are no data relating to demand, access, and utilization of ambulance services.

In response to a surge of COVID-19 cases in 2021, the Fiji government created a Prehospital Emergency Care Coordination Center (PHECCC) in the capital Suva, which was operational from July-October 2021. Access was via a toll-free number, whereby the public could receive a medical consultation followed by phone advice or dispatch of an ambulance for a home assessment, followed by transportation to hospital, if required. The PHECCC also provided coordination of inter-facility transport and retrieval of the critically ill.

The system that was created met many of the prehospital care standards set by emergency care leaders in the region and created the first dataset relating to ambulance demand and utilization. This is the first article to document prehospital system development in the Pacific region.
‘Who will I become?’: possible selves and depression symptoms in adolescents
Authors: Hards Emily , Hsu Ting-Chen , Joshi Gauri , Ellis Judi , Reynolds Shirley
Published: January 2024

Background:

Adolescence is an important period for the development of the possible self. It is also a time when depression is prevalent. The cognitive theory of depression proposes that a negative view of the future is a key feature of depression. Targeting these negative thoughts about the future during cognitive behavioural therapy may be helpful in depression. However, little is known about how adolescents envisage their future (i.e. possible) self, or if the content is associated with affect. The aim of this quantitative study is to describe how adolescents describe their ‘possible self’ and examine the relationship between the valence of the possible self and depression in adolescents.

Method:

Adolescents (n = 584) aged 13–18 years were recruited via opportunity sampling via their schools and completed measures of depression symptoms (the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire) and the ‘possible self’ (a variant of the ‘I Will Be’ task). Possible selves were coded for content and valence.

Results:

Despite depression severity, the most common possible selves generated by adolescents were positive and described interpersonal roles. The valence of the possible self was associated with depression severity but only accounted for 3.4% of the variance in severity.

Conclusion:

The results support the cognitive model of depression. However, adolescents with elevated symptoms of depression were able to generate positive, possible selves and therefore may remain somewhat ‘hopeful’ about their future despite clinically significant depression symptoms. Future-oriented treatment approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy that focus on changing unhelpful negative future thinking may not be appropriate for this population.
The Influence of Air‐Sea CO2 Disequilibrium on Carbon Sequestration by the Ocean's Biological Pump
Authors: Nowicki Michael , DeVries Tim , Siegel David A.
Published: January 2024

The ocean's biological carbon pump (BCP) affects the Earth's climate by sequestering CO2 away from the atmosphere for decades to millennia. One primary control on the amount of carbon sequestered by the biological pump is air‐sea CO2 disequilibrium, which is controlled by the rate of air‐sea CO2 exchange and the residence time of CO2 in surface waters. Here, we use a data‐assimilated model of the soft tissue BCP to quantify carbon sequestration inventories and time scales from remineralization in the water column to equilibration with the atmosphere. We find that air‐sea CO2 disequilibrium enhances the global biogenic carbon inventory by ∼35% and its sequestration time by ∼70 years compared to identical calculations made assuming instantaneous air‐sea CO2 exchange. Locally, the greatest enhancement occurs in the subpolar Southern Ocean, where air‐sea disequilibrium increases sequestration times by up to 600 years and the biogenic dissolved inorganic carbon inventory by >100% in the upper ocean. Contrastingly, in deep‐water formation regions of the North Atlantic and Antarctic margins, where biological production creates undersaturated surface waters which are subducted before fully equilibrating with the atmosphere, air‐sea CO2 disequilibrium decreases the depth‐integrated sequestration inventory by up to ∼150%. The global enhancement of carbon sequestration by air‐sea disequilibrium is particularly important for carbon respired in deep waters that upwell in the Southern Ocean. These results highlight the importance of accounting for air‐sea CO2 disequilibrium when evaluating carbon sequestration by the biological pump and for assessing the efficacy of ocean‐based CO2 removal methods.
Propagation of extended fractures by local nucleation and rapid transverse expansion of crack-front distortion
Authors: Cochard T. , Svetlizky I. , Albertini G. , Viesca R. C. , Rubinstein S. M. , Spaepen F. , Yuan C. , Denolle M. , Song Y-Q. , Xiao L. , Weitz D. A.
Published: January 2024

Fractures are ubiquitous and can lead to the catastrophic material failure of materials. Although fracturing in a two-dimensional plane is well understood, all fractures are extended in and propagate through three-dimensional space. Moreover, their behaviour is complex. Here we show that the forward propagation of a fracture front occurs through an initial rupture, nucleated at some localized position, followed by a very rapid transverse expansion at velocities as high as the Rayleigh-wave speed. We study fracturing in a circular geometry that achieves an uninterrupted extended fracture front and use a fluid to control the loading conditions that determine the amplitude of the forward jump. We find that this amplitude correlates with the transverse velocity. Dynamic rupture simulations capture the observations for only a high transverse velocity. These results highlight the importance of transverse dynamics in the forward propagation of an extended fracture.
Resource constrained neural network training
Authors: Pietrołaj Mariusz , Blok Marek
Published: January 2024

Modern applications of neural-network-based AI solutions tend to move from datacenter backends to low-power edge devices. Environmental, computational, and power constraints are inevitable consequences of such a shift. Limiting the bit count of neural network parameters proved to be a valid technique for speeding up and increasing efficiency of the inference process. Hence, it is understandable that a similar approach is gaining momentum in the field of neural network training. In the face of growing complexity of neural network architectures, reducing resources required for preparation of new models would not only improve cost efficiency but also enable a variety of new AI applications on modern personal devices. In this work, we present a deep refinement of neural network parameters limitation with the use of the asymmetric exponent method. In addition to the previous research, we study new techniques of floating-point variables limitation, representation, and rounding. Moreover, by leveraging exponent offset, we present floating-point precision adjustments without an increase in variables’ bit count. The proposed method allowed us to train LeNet, AlexNet and ResNet-18 convolutional neural networks with a custom 8-bit floating-point representation achieving minimal or no results degradation in comparison to baseline 32-bit floating-point variables.
Predicting malaria risk considering vector control interventions under climate change scenarios
Authors: Sadoine Margaux L. , Zinszer Kate , Liu Ying , Gachon Philippe , Fournier Michel , Dueymes Guillaume , Dorsey Grant , Llerena Ana , Namuganga Jane Frances , Nasri Bouchra , Smargiassi Audrey
Published: January 2024

Many studies have projected malaria risks with climate change scenarios by modelling one or two environmental variables and without the consideration of malaria control interventions. We aimed to predict the risk of malaria with climate change considering the influence of rainfall, humidity, temperatures, vegetation, and vector control interventions (indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN)). We used negative binomial models based on weekly malaria data from six facility-based surveillance sites in Uganda from 2010–2018, to estimate associations between malaria, environmental variables and interventions, accounting for the non-linearity of environmental variables. Associations were applied to future climate scenarios to predict malaria distribution using an ensemble of Regional Climate Models under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5). Predictions including interaction effects between environmental variables and interventions were also explored. The results showed upward trends in the annual malaria cases by 25% to 30% by 2050s in the absence of intervention but there was great variability in the predictions (historical vs RCP 4.5 medians [Min–Max]: 16,785 [9,902–74,382] vs 21,289 [11,796–70,606]). The combination of IRS and LLIN, IRS alone, and LLIN alone would contribute to reducing the malaria burden by 76%, 63% and 35% respectively. Similar conclusions were drawn from the predictions of the models with and without interactions between environmental factors and interventions, suggesting that the interactions have no added value for the predictions. The results highlight the need for maintaining vector control interventions for malaria prevention and control in the context of climate change given the potential public health and economic implications of increasing malaria in Uganda.
Deciphering the role of alternative splicing as a potential regulator in fat-tail development of sheep: a comprehensive RNA-seq based study
Authors: Bakhtiarizadeh Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2024

Although research on alternative splicing (AS) has been widely conducted in mammals, no study has investigated the splicing profiles of genes involved in fat-tail formation in sheep. Here, for the first time, a comprehensive study was designed to investigate the profile of AS events and their involvement in fat-tail development of sheep. In total, 45 RNA-Seq samples related to seven different studies, which have compared the fat-tailed vs thin-tailed sheep breeds, were analyzed. Two independent tools, rMATS and Whippet, along with a set of stringent filters were applied to identify differential AS (DAS) events between the breeds per each study. Only DAS events that were detected by both tools as well as in at least three datasets with the same ΔPSI trend (percent spliced in), were considered as the final high-confidence set of DAS genes. Final results revealed 130 DAS skipped exon events (69 negative and 61 positive ΔPSI) belonged to 124 genes. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted the importance of the genes in the underlying molecular mechanisms of fat metabolism. Moreover, protein–protein interaction network analysis revealed that DAS genes are significantly connected. Of DAS genes, five transcription factors were found that were enriched in the biological process associated with lipid metabolism like “Fat Cell Differentiation”. Further investigations of the findings along with a comprehensive literature review provided a reliable list of candidate genes that may potentially contribute to fat-tail formation including HSD11B1, SIRT2, STRN3 and TCF7L2. Based on the results, it can be stated that the AS patterns may have evolved, during the evolution of sheep breeds, as another layer of regulation to contribute to biological complexity by reprogramming the gene regulatory networks. This study provided the theoretical basis of the molecular mechanisms behind the sheep fat-tail development in terms of AS.
Effects of iodine intake on gut microbiota and gut metabolites in Hashimoto thyroiditis-diseased humans and mice
Authors: Gong Boshen , Meng Fanrui , Wang Xichang , Han Yutong , Yang Wanyu , Wang Chuyuan , Shan Zhongyan
Published: January 2024

Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) is an organ-specific autoimmune disease linked to iodine intake. Emerging evidence highlights the gut microbiota’s role in HT pathogenesis via the microbiota-gut-thyroid axis. However, the process through which iodine intake modifies the microbiota and triggers HT remains unclear. This study examines how iodine affects gut dysbiosis and HT, recruiting 23 patients with HT and 25 healthy individuals to assess gut microbiota composition and metabolic features. Furthermore, we establish a spontaneously developed thyroiditis mouse model using NOD.H-2h4 mice highlighting the influence of iodine intake on HT progression. The butanoate metabolism significantly differs between these two groups according to the enrichment results, and butyric acid is significantly decreased in patients with HT compared with those in healthy individuals. Gut dysbiosis, driven by excessive iodine intake, disrupts TH17/Treg balance by reducing butyric acid. In summary, iodine intake alters intestinal microbiota composition and metabolic changes influencing the microbiota-gut-thyroid axis.
Obesity causes mitochondrial fragmentation and dysfunction in white adipocytes due to RalA activation
Authors: Xia Wenmin , Veeragandham Preethi , Cao Yu , Xu Yayun , Rhyne Torrey E. , Qian Jiaxin , Hung Chao-Wei , Zhao Peng , Jones Ying , Gao Hui , Liddle Christopher , Yu Ruth T. , Downes Michael , Evans Ronald M. , Rydén Mikael , Wabitsch Martin , Wang Zichen , Hakozaki Hiroyuki , Schöneberg Johannes , Reilly Shannon M. , Huang Jianfeng , Saltiel Alan R.
Published: January 2024

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a characteristic trait of human and rodent obesity, insulin resistance and fatty liver disease. Here we show that high-fat diet (HFD) feeding causes mitochondrial fragmentation in inguinal white adipocytes from male mice, leading to reduced oxidative capacity by a process dependent on the small GTPase RalA. RalA expression and activity are increased in white adipocytes after HFD. Targeted deletion of RalA in white adipocytes prevents fragmentation of mitochondria and diminishes HFD-induced weight gain by increasing fatty acid oxidation. Mechanistically, RalA increases fission in adipocytes by reversing the inhibitory Ser637 phosphorylation of the fission protein Drp1, leading to more mitochondrial fragmentation. Adipose tissue expression of the human homolog of Drp1, DNM1L, is positively correlated with obesity and insulin resistance. Thus, chronic activation of RalA plays a key role in repressing energy expenditure in obese adipose tissue by shifting the balance of mitochondrial dynamics toward excessive fission, contributing to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction.
Mitochondrial DNA mutations drive aerobic glycolysis to enhance checkpoint blockade response in melanoma
Authors: Mahmood Mahnoor , Liu Eric Minwei , Shergold Amy L. , Tolla Elisabetta , Tait-Mulder Jacqueline , Huerta-Uribe Alejandro , Shokry Engy , Young Alex L. , Lilla Sergio , Kim Minsoo , Park Tricia , Boscenco Sonia , Manchon Javier L. , Rodríguez-Antona Crístina , Walters Rowan C. , Springett Roger J. , Blaza James N. , Mitchell Louise , Blyth Karen , Zanivan Sara , Sumpton David , Roberts Edward W. , Reznik Ed , Gammage Payam A.
Published: January 2024

The mitochondrial genome (mtDNA) encodes essential machinery for oxidative phosphorylation and metabolic homeostasis. Tumor mtDNA is among the most somatically mutated regions of the cancer genome, but whether these mutations impact tumor biology is debated. We engineered truncating mutations of the mtDNA-encoded complex I gene, Mt-Nd5, into several murine models of melanoma. These mutations promoted a Warburg-like metabolic shift that reshaped tumor microenvironments in both mice and humans, consistently eliciting an anti-tumor immune response characterized by loss of resident neutrophils. Tumors bearing mtDNA mutations were sensitized to checkpoint blockade in a neutrophil-dependent manner, with induction of redox imbalance being sufficient to induce this effect in mtDNA wild-type tumors. Patient lesions bearing >50% mtDNA mutation heteroplasmy demonstrated a response rate to checkpoint blockade that was improved by ~2.5-fold over mtDNA wild-type cancer. These data nominate mtDNA mutations as functional regulators of cancer metabolism and tumor biology, with potential for therapeutic exploitation and treatment stratification.
Weathering of agricultural polyethylene films in cold climate regions: which parameters influence fragmentation?
Authors: Rowenczyk Laura , Jahandideh Heidi , Lin Nicholas , Tufenkji Nathalie
Published: January 2024

A combination of parameters is involved during the natural weathering of plastic much films, which could lead to the acceleration of their fragmentation into microplastics or the leaching of additives.
Abundance and Types of Microplastics in the Water of Sukaraja
Authors: Pawhestri Suci Wulan , Pitria Annisa , Satiyarti Rina Budi , Wibowo Sara Gustia
Published: January 2024

Sukaraja coastal waters are a place used by the community as a center to find fish to be traded. However, the sustainability of this beach has been polluted by garbage which is dominated by plastic materials. Decomposition of plastic waste takes a very long time. The results of the decomposition are called mocroplastics which have a size < 5 mm. Its very small size can make it a food ingredient for aquatic biota, causing bad impacts. This study uses a descriptive quantitative approach with random sampling method. The research location points were carried out at 3 statitions with 2 times of taking, namely the time of high tide and low tide. The time of the research was in April 2021. The total abundance of microplastics found was 36 x 102 particles/m3. The highest abundance was found at Station II of 20,66 x 102 particles/m3, which is where the most plastic waste accumulates. While the lowest abundance was found at Station III with an abundance of 4,66 x 102 particles/m3. This is presumably because the location of Station III is far from the shoreline and is clean of garbage. The types of microplastics found in persim at Sukaraja Beach are fragment, film, fiber, pellet types. The highest average abundance of microplastics was found in the sobeast fragment types of 14,66 x 102 particles/m3. And the lowest average abundance of microplastics is the type of film of 3,33 x 102 particles/m3
Virtual and Factual Space Mutualism in Society 5.0: Spatial Architecture Studies
Authors: Siregar Siti Safira Chairunisya , Deni  , Karsono Bambang
Published: January 2024

In the era of Society 5.0, research on architecture has considered the combination of factual and virtual space as the primary focus. The aim is to find principles of spatial design that can accommodate productive communities’ social and economic development. However, the relationship between the combination of virtual space and factual space in the context of designing a dimensioned space based on activity is a question that needs to be reviewed. In this study, the tool used to answer the question is the concept of needs put forward by Abraham Maslow, which will be collaborated with the idea of spatial orientation through architectural phenomena proposed by David Seamon; the research method used is a qualitative method to reveal the needs of productive society. An exploratory approach is used in collecting data by observing productive community activities from factual spaces outside the workspace and residence. In addition, research also dives into virtual space or the transition from a single activity to a dual activity through observation and analysis. The results showed the need for mutualism as an intermediary space for a productive society between factual and virtual spaces. Thus, this study highlights the importance of understanding the relationship between factual and virtual space in designing spaces that can accommodate the needs of productive societies in the era of Society 5.0. The mutualism space that becomes an intermediary space can help create an environment supporting productive communities’ social and economic development.
Technology and Digital Literacy: Interrelationships and the Impact of Acceptance with Self-regulated Learning
Authors: Saregar Antomi , Kirana Linda Jua , Asyhari Ardian , Anugrah Adyt , Fitri Megawati Ridwan , Panse Vishal R.
Published: January 2024

The educational technology continues to grow and change. Technology acceptance exists to understand how technology emerges and is adopted. Technology acceptance plays an important role in creating an innovative and effective learning environment in enhancing students’ learning experience. Technology acceptance must be supported by digital literacy skills to achieve successful use of technology in learning. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between technology acceptance and digital literacy in self-regulated learning of physics students. This type of research is quantitative survey research. The research data were obtained by distributing online questionnaires using Google Forms. The questionnaire used a Likert scale of five options. A total of 132 valid questionnaires were obtained and analyzed using PLS-SEM assisted by the Smart PLS application. Based on the path coefficient, it shows that technology acceptance has a significant positive effect with β = 0.248 or close to 1, tcritical value of 2.345, which is higher than the tobserved value of 1.989. Furthermore, the p-value is 0.019, which is lower than 0.05. The digital literacy path coefficient has a significant positive effect on self-regulated learning with a value of β = 0.673 or close to 1, tcritical value of 6.456, which is higher than the tobserved value of 1.989. Furthermore, the p-value is 0.000, which is lower than 0.05. The results of PLS-SEM analysis using Smart PLS show that technology acceptance and digital literacy have a significant positive effect on self-regulated learning. This research is expected to be a source of reference for further research in discussing issues related to self-regulated learning.
An Overview of Constructivism in the Special Needs Spectrum
Authors: Kaliampos George
Published: January 2024

Constructivism has dominated science education the last decades exerting great influence in that field. Nevertheless, this has not been the case for special needs sector. Indeed, few researchers have tried to extend constructivism in special needs and even fewer have investigated alternative ideas of students who lie within this spectrum. The current study tries, through literature review, to move along this line and present studies that have explored alternative ideas of students with special needs. In particular, published studies were identified through academic search engines which led to citation chasing. The collected data was read, and scrutiny analyzed leading to the final studies that were incorporated in the article. Therefore, the current article presents in a detailed and holistic view these studies that deal with alternative ideas of students with autism, learning difficulties as well as deafness about diverse physical phenomena such as mechanics, thermal phenomena, and the nature of science. Research findings suggest that these students tend to use the same alternative conceptions with those used by students of typical development, on a different frequency thought. These findings clearly support the academic belief of a holistic, inclusive education. Along this line, the findings can equip teachers with the appropriate tools to design and implement their plans based on the constructivism theory of learning in an inclusive framework. Consequently, the article fulfill to act as a motivational call for the science education community to expand research to further group of students within special needs spectrum.
Developing Early Childhood Creativity through Used Goods at Bina Balita Islamic Kindergarten Bandar Lampung
Authors: Fitriyani Siti , Muslim Ahmad Bukhari , Romlah Romlah , Meriyanti  , Kiswanto Anggil Viyantini
Published: January 2024

Creativity is an important skill to develop at a young age because it allows people to improve their quality of life. However, some children struggle to communicate their ideas and concepts during learning activities when the teacher assigns activities to children who are still hesitant to communicate their ideas and are interested in creative activities. Therefore, the study aims to discover how to foster early childhood creativity at Bina Balita Islamic Kindergarten in Bandar Lampung using used goods media. This descriptive qualitative study was conducted with teachers and students at Bina Balita Islamic Kindergarten in Bandar Lampung to develop early childhood creativity using used goods. Data collection methods include observation, interviews, and documentation. The data was then analyzed using the triangulation technique. Based on the study’s findings, in developing early childhood creativity through used goods media in Bina Balita Islamic Kindergarten of Bandar Lampung, teachers use used goods media as a play tool or learning resource, such as plastic bottles, cardboard, ice cream sticks, bottle caps, etc. Teachers use learning materials to encourage early childhood creativity, such as making fans out of ice cream sticks, lanterns out of plastic bottles, etc. The teachers there optimize the use of used materials as a means of playing or learning resources for children, making the learning environment more interesting.
The Effect of CPS Model with Brainstorming Method on Creative Thinking Skills and Creative Attitudes: A Study on High School Students
Authors: Hidayah Nur , Sari Retna , Handoko Akbar , Firmansah Deri
Published: January 2024

Students’ creative thinking skills and attitudes in classrooms are lacking. This study aimed to see how the Creative Problem-Solving (CPS) model with the brainstorming method affected students’ creative thinking skills and attitudes. This study employed a quantitative method with a quasi-experimental design. The sampling technique used was cluster random sampling, which resulted in class X IPA 5 serving as the control class and class X IPA 2 serving as the experimental class. The instruments used were tests to assess creative thinking skills and questionnaires to assess students’ creative attitudes. Based on the results, the significance level was 0.000, less than 0.05. As a result, it can be inferred that the CPS model with the brainstorming method affected students’ creative thinking skills and creative attitudes.
Analysis of Scientific Literacy in Disaster Mitigation at SMAN 1 Kotaagung: Sustainability Measure
Authors: Rahmawati Intan , Oktina Sari Pratama Anisa , Hidayanti Veni
Published: January 2024

The aim of this research is to analyze students’ scientific literacy abilities at SMAN 1 Kotaagung in the aspects of content, process and context. The research method used is quantitative descriptive by measuring students’ scientific literacy abilities using the instrument in this research, which is a question of scientific literacy abilities which was created referring to PISA 2015, using biodiversity material combined with disaster mitigation material. Apart from that, this research also used an interview instrument as a supporting instrument for the test questions which were given as many as 10 questions which had previously been validated by lecturers who were experts in their fields. The results obtained are the percentage per indicator of scientific literacy questions and the percentage of the total number obtained in each school. The sample used was at SMAN 1 Kotaagung school (30 students). The sample chosen was a class that had studied material in the biodiversity chapter. At SMAN 1 Kotaagung, the average achievement of scientific literacy in the content aspect was 51.77% in the “very poor” category, in the process aspect 53.20% in the “very poor” category and in the context aspect 40% in the “very poor” category overall. An average of 48.32% where this achievement is considered “very low”.
Promoting Sustainable Development Goals in Islamic University of Raden Intan Lampung
Authors: Hasanah Uswatun , Khoiruttobib Syafak , Hasanah Ida Faridatul , Alhafiz Farel , Apriyani Hikma , Hakim Istiazah Ulima
Published: January 2024

This research aims to investigate the efforts and policies implemented by Islamic University of Raden Intan Lampung in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Achievement Targets of Students. This research employs a qualitative descriptive research method, focusing on the integration of SDGs into the university’s vision, mission, and curriculum, the research involves policy analysis, interviews with decision-makers about the programs that support the SDGs. The research results indicate that the university has actively incorporated sustainable development principles into various aspects of campus life. The university’s vision and mission explicitly reflect a commitment to the SDGs, and the implementation of a curriculum that supports sustainable learning is a primary focus. Support for student activities, such as the Student KSE (Kelompok Studi Ekologi), and efforts to empower students through the selection of Environmental Ambassadors, demonstrate the university’s commitment to shaping environmentally conscious young leaders. Conclusion, this research provides valuable insights into the steps taken by Islamic University of Raden Intan Lampung to achieve its goals related to sustainable development. The implications of these findings may contribute to other universities wishing to adopt sustainable practices in the context of Islamic higher education in Indonesia.