bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of branding for the marketing of gemmological information: global experience and features of the domestic market
Authors: Shevchenko S , Kursa O
Published: November 2024

Purpose. To show the importance of creating trade names and trademarks in the gem market for its effective development. The methods. The work uses general scientific methods of research - empirical and theoretical (analysis, generalization, comparison, explanation, classification), as well as methods of statistical processing and display of analyzed information. Findings. The importance of informational support of gemstones at all stages of the creation of commercial products is shown, in particular, branding as a system of measures aimed at increasing the recognition of a certain variety of gemstones. Trademarks of gems and trademarks of certain types of cutting are considered as objects of intellectual property. The dynamics of growth in the value of Paraiba tanzanite, tsavorite, tourmaline as a result of targeted marketing of gemmological information are presented. An analysis of the existing trade names of some foreign analogues of gemstones was carried out. Trade names of gemstones of Ukraine are often limited to one or two variants (jasper, jaspilite, agate, coloured quartz and others), while among foreign analogues there is a much larger number (from 6 to 16) of trade names, which stimulates demand for them and increases interest potential buyers. The originality. For the first time, the peculiarities of branding of well-known trade names of gemstones were analyzed in comparison with domestic varieties. It has been established that there are more than 30 trade names among gemstones of 1–4 orders and more than 20 trade names – among semi-precious gemstones of 1–2 orders, outside the legislation of Ukraine. The determination of the role of branding for the successful marketing of gemmological information and the development of the gemstone market has been further developed. It was established that among foreign analogues of domestic gemstones, there is a much larger number of trade names (agate – 6, jaspilite and petrified wood – 8 each, coloured quartz – 13, marbled limestone – 14, jasper – 16). It is shown for the first time that the presence of emotional colouring in the existing English-language trade names of the most common varieties of precious stones contributes to the growth of their recognition; at the same time, similar components for domestic precious stones are mostly absent. Practical implementation. Analysis of the trade names of the most common varieties of gemstones in Ukraine and abroad allows us to identify what strategies can be applied to increase the competitiveness of domestic resources. Studying these aspects helps to understand which names and marketing approaches are most effective in creating a positive image and increasing demand for Ukrainian gemstones.
Ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure energy facilities from explosions
Authors: Zuievska N , Shaidetska L , Semchuk R , Khalymendyk O
Published: November 2024

Purpose. Analysis of the protection of critical energy infrastructure facilities, which are often destroyed under the influence of a shock wave, which affects the stability of Ukraine's energy systems. Determination of the state of security of critical infrastructure, which ensures the functionality, continuity of work, integrity and stability, which is reflected in the life support of the population. Methodology. To achieve this goal, a simulation of a detonation explosion and the distribution of shock waves within prismatic bodies simulating urban development using the ANSYS AUTODYN software product were carried out. In conditions of dense urban development, measures to ensure the protection of critical infrastructure facilities are selected based on the interaction of liquids, gases and solids, phase transitions, propagation of shock waves, etc. The results of the study were obtained. The calculated parameters of the shock wave distribution limit in 15 ms after detonation were determined, the pressure data corresponding to the measurement sensors T1 and T2 were recorded, it was determined that the values of the pressure of the blast wave at the manometric points T1 and T2 are the highest about 5 ms, аt the same time, the pressure on the underground structure is almost 50% less than on the ground. Protection of critical energy infrastructure facilities in the form of construction of underground transformer substations and their modernization in conditions of dense urban development is proposed. This is the optimal solution to eliminate problems, which arise with an increase in loads in city power grids and protect them from the action of a blast wave PCT. Originality. The dependencies of the pressure distribution on the shock wave in time for two variants of shading of critical energy infrastructure objects, namely underground location and ground location in the urban environment, are obtained. At the same time, the parameters of the materials of the structure and the characteristics and amount of explosives were taken into account. Practical value. The construction of underground transformer substations and their modernization in dense urban areas is the optimal solution for eliminating the problems that arise with an increase in loads in city power grids and protecting them from the effects of a blast wave.
Assessment of the non-carcinogenic risk to population health fromatmospheric air pollution in Dnipropetrovsk oblast
Authors: Borysovska O , Berezniak O , Harbar A
Published: November 2024

Purpose. The purpose of this work is to assess the non-carcinogenic risk to population health from air pollution inDnipropetrovsk Oblast. The methods. Assessment of the non-carcinogenic risk to populationhealth from air pollution in Dnipropetrovsk Oblastwas carried out as follows: hazards were identified; dose-response relationships were assessed; priority air pollutants were ranked; and exposure was assessed using the methodology approved by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. Findings. The ranking of priority atmospheric air pollutants in Dnipropetrovsk Oblastaccording to the comparative non-carcinogenic hazard index (HRI), which takes into account the health impact weighting factor, the population size and the amount of conditional exposure to the substance, demonstrates that phenol has the lowest HRI value in the region with a value of 4,914,088, and dust has the highest value with an index of 1,788,636,286. Phenol has the highest value of the hazard coefficient, which characterises the risk of non-carcinogenic effects from air pollution in Dnipro city with a value of 5.78, indicating a high risk of negative impact on human health from its presence in the air. The overall hazard index of non-carcinogenic risk from air pollution in Dnipro is 16.03 and is characterised as extremely high. Scientific novelty. The dependence of the distribution of pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions from stationary sources in the Dnipro region by districts of the region, taking into account the number of enterprises with relevant emissions, was further developed.The classification of priority air pollutants in the Dnipro region was improved according to the value of the comparative non-carcinogenic hazard index (HRI), which takes into account the weighting factor of the impact on health, population size and the value of the conditional exposure to a substance. Practical implementation. The research results can help to reduce air pollution in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. This will improve the quality of life of the local population and preserve the natural environment from negative impact. The research findings can also serve as a basis for developing and implementing strategies and programmes to reduce air pollution in the region. This will help the authorities to make effective and informed decisions in the field of environmental protection.
Continuity breakageof cableinorthotropic stay rope of rectangular cross-section
Authors: Kolosov D , Bilous O , Tantsura H , Onyshchenko S , Shustova A , Antonova K
Published: November 2024

Purpose. Construction of an algorithm for determining a stress-strain state of a multi-layer stay rope of a rectangular cross-section with a broken reinforcing fiber. Methods. Analytical solution of an interaction model of parallel fibers connected by elastic material of a stay rope of rectangular cross-section in the event of reinforcing element breakage using methods of mechanics of layered composite materials with soft and hard layers. Findings. An analytical algorithm for determining a stress-strain state of a composite stay rope of rectangular cross-section with a damaged reinforcing fiber is constructed.An analytical method for determining a stress-strain state of a rope with a comprehensive consideration of structure, mechanical properties of components, layout of reinforcing fibers in a cross-section, in a presence of a broken fiber, is developed in a closed form.It is established that load unevenness on fibers is practically independent of the ratio of an amount of fibers and layers in a rope and their total amount, and the ratio of fiber placement spacing in layers and spacing of layers in case of fiber breakage in a stay rope cross-section. Scientific novelty. It is established that load unevenness on fiber does not depend on a ratio of an amount of fibers and amount of layers in a stay rope. Practical significance. The developed algorithm makes it possible to determine the share of tractive capacity loss of a stay rope of rectangular cross-section due to breakage of a reinforcing element. The known value of lost strength makes it possible to establish acceptable conditions for use of a rope of rectangular cross-section. It is advisable to give a rope a shape with less resistance to air pressure by reducing the amount of layers compared to the amount of fibers in layers. Damage to a corner element of cable reinforcement is more dangerous, it leads to a load increase of almost 30 % in the most loaded fiber, while the specified parameter is less than 20 % in case of a breakage of the central fiber.
Algorithm for determining tensions in a stay cable with a manufacturing defect
Authors: Belmas I , Kolosov D , Bilous O , Tantsura H , Onyshchenko S , Shustova A , Krasnokutskyi O
Published: November 2024

Purpose. Establishing the influence of presence of a longitudinal area, on which there is detachment of layers over a limited length of a composite orthotropic rope, on its stress-strain state. Research methodology. Development of a method for calculating the influence of presence of a longitudinal area, on which there is detachment of layers over a limited length of a composite orthotropic rope, on its stress-strain state by constructing and analytically solving a model of a stress-strain state of a composite tractive element, considering the conditions of interaction of a rope with a permanent structure using the methods of mechanics of layered composite materials with soft and hard layers. Findings. Analytical dependencies are obtained in a closed form, which allow determining a stress-strain state of a composite multi-layer rope with partial local detachment of a separate layer, considering the breakage of one reinforcing element. An algorithm for determining a stress-strain state of a composite multi-layer rope with partial detachment of a separate layer considering the breakage of one reinforcing element is established. Characteristics of a dependency of unevenness coefficients of load distribution in reinforcing elements, displacements and shear angle tangents on the ordinal number of a damaged cable in a presence of partial local detachment of a separate layer of a composite stay rope is established. Scientific novelty. Influence character of presence of a longitudinal area, on which there is detachment of layers over a limited length of a composite orthotropic rope, on its stress-strain state is established. A method of calculating the influence of presence of an area of detached layers in a rope on its stress-strain state is developed. Practical significance. Local detachment of layers is possible in a process of producing a composite multi-layer stay rope. The developed algorithm makes it possible to determine a stress-strain state of composite stay rope with local layer detachment. The known values of detachment allow implementing justified engineering solutions regarding the conditions of safe, temporary use of a composite rope in cable-stayed structure.
Psychological Understanding for Prevention of Juvenile Delinquency through Spatial Design
Authors: Edison Carmmel Taricka , Islary Somaina
Published: November 2024

Children’s delinquent behaviour which is often met with rejection and misinterpretation of their immediate environment necessitates specific treatment for juveniles. The continuous rise in juvenile offences in India, particularly in crowded urban areas, has been an urgent challenge in recent years. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, 31,170 cases have been registered against juveniles in 2021, with a 4.7% increase over 2020. At the crux of such deviance is deprivation, poor-quality environment, and ignorance of its value causing adverse childhood experiences, social problems, and mental disorders. Neighbourhood design affects a person’s behaviour, directly influencing deviance, or creating a hostile communal bond with a juvenile who might eventually exhibit deviance. This study investigates the intersection of psychology, architecture, and policies regarding juvenile crime prevention at the neighbourhood scale. It explores how the built environment influences the behaviour and development of children, and how strategic design interventions can prevent juvenile delinquency. The study also examines the CPTED approach of various countries to understand the design principles that influence social behaviour. The inferences drawn are applied to understand crime preventive design strategies in Indian urban low-income neighbourhoods with higher juvenile crime rates. While CPTED focuses on general crime prevention strategies, juvenile crimes, which require a more comprehensive approach and an understanding of the root causes of future crimes, have not been delved into. Hence, this paper proposes an integrated framework that promotes holistic neighbourhood design to prevent juvenile delinquency by creating safe, inclusive communities that nurture positive youth development.
Teachers' Attitudes Towards Learners' Autonomy
Authors: Lamkhanter Fouzia
Published: November 2024

In order to be successful in higher education, a balanced cooperation between teachers and students is crucial; Involving students in evaluating and making decisions about their learning is important to foster their autonomy. The present study seeks to examine learner autonomy from teachers´ perspectives with the aim of helping the latter reflect on their practices and find out ways to help enhance students´ academic performance and accompany them on their journey towards autonomy. It builds on previous research into learner autonomy from students’ perspectives, which revealed a great awareness of the importance of learner autonomy among Moroccan university students. The article yielded evidence of very promising ground upon which can be built a culture of autonomy in Moroccan higher education. A mixed method approach was adopted to gather data. First, a questionnaire was conducted among 74 university teachers so as to discover 1) how–and if–teachers fostered autonomous learning behaviour in classes; and 2) what their attitudes toward learner autonomy were. Later, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 5 teachers to consider ways to give learners control over their own learning. The findings have confirmed that teachers play important roles in developing learner autonomy. They need to be facilitators of the learning process so that they can support their students emotionally and prepare them to become responsible for their own learning..Therefore, teachers have to reconsider the multiple roles they might play in order to foster their learners´autonomy.
Business Sustainability Among Women Entrepreneurs in Ghana
Authors: Asante Gabriel Yaw , Lao Teresa
Published: November 2024

There is a problem among women entrepreneurs in Ghana caused by the lack of training among women’s entrepreneurs that includes social, cultural, economic, political, demographic, institutional, and technological support. The purpose of this qualitative exploratory multiple case study was to explore business strategies that women entrepreneurs in Ghana need to learn to make their business sustainable beyond 5 years. Ten successful women entrepreneurs from 5 industries in Ghana, who had the training, experience, and information to understand the causes of business failure and had applied that information to gain business sustainability beyond 5 years were recruited. Data analysis involved triangulation, member checking, and Yin’s 5 steps. Key findings were change management and adaptation, agility and flexibility in operations, analysis of stakeholders, creation of business policies and objectives, designing and executing digital implementation plan, developing and supporting corporate culture, developing and measuring performance standards, and enhancing internal control and processes. Findings could reduce poverty and increase women’s employment, sustainability in women-owned businesses, community development, and the standard of living.
To Conceal or to Reveal? Antecedents of Ethnic Minority Family Businesses’ Use of Ethnic Branding
Authors: Bell Monique L. , Parra Fernando , Porter III McDowell , Story W. Keith
Published: November 2024

The family business branding literature identifies numerous benefits to communicating family ownership. However, existing studies have omitted ethnic minority family businesses (EMFB), which present unique identity and cultural considerations. We examine potential antecedents to EMFB use of ethnic branding, which features their ethnicity within marketing communications. The study establishes a significant positive relationship between EMFB owners’ ethnic identification and socioemotional wealth (SEW), and between EMFB owners’ SEW and ethnic branding usage. Product ethnicity moderates the latter relationship such that a match between product ethnicity and EMFB ethnicity increases the likelihood of ethnic branding. Managerial and theoretical implications are further discussed.
Hukuk ve Uygulamada İnsanca Sığınma Üzerine Dünyadan ve Türkiye’den Notlar
Authors: Uzun Ekin Deniz
Published: November 2024

İnsanca sığınma kavramı, sığınma arayan kişinin hedef ülkeye ulaşması ve varış ülkesinde bulunduğu zaman bağlamında değerlendirilmelidir. Sığınma arama sürecinde bireyin insanca bir muameleye tabi tutulması insanca sığınmanın kavramsal değerinin ilgili devletçe hukuk ve uygulamada idrak edilmiş olması ile mümkün olur. Bahsi geçen idrak, sığınma başvurusu işletim sürecinin kişiler için belirsiz kılınmaması ve hukuk önünde kişi olarak tanınma hakkının ilgili ülke tarafından benimsenmiş olması anlamına gelmektedir. Sığınılan ülkede insana yakışır bir sığınmanın kişi için mümkün kılınmış olduğu çıkarımına varılabilmesi için ülkedeki sosyal uyum sürecinin de ayrıca dikkate alınması gerekir. Sosyal uyum, hukuk önünde kişi olarak tanınma hakkının ulusal düzenlemelerde ve uygulamada ekonomik, sosyal, kültürel, siyasi ve mekânsal alanlara sirayet etmiş olması ve kişinin içerisinde bulunduğu sürecin belirsiz kılınmaması ile gerçekleşebilir.
Makale, hedef ülkeye varış sürecinde insanca sığınma kavramını dünyadan örnekler bağlamında tartışır ve uluslararası hukuk düzenlemeleri üzerinden sığınma arayan kişilerin hakları ile devlet uygulamalarının hangi durumlarda insanca sığınma kavramına ters düşeceğini analiz eder. İnsanca sığınma kavramının varış ülkesinde geçirilen ve toplumsal uyuma ilişkin boyutunu ise Türkiye’de bulunan Suriyeliler ile ilgili olarak hukuk ve uygulamayı göz önünde bulundurmak suretiyle somutlaştırır. Neticesinde, makale insanca sığınmanın hukuk ve uygulamanın örtüştüğü noktada gerçekleşeceğini vurgulamakla beraber, özellikle sosyal uyum açısından farklı dinamiklerin denkleme girmesi nedeniyle insanca sığınma kavramında gri alanlar olabileceğine işaret eder.
7221 Sayılı Kanunla İmar ve Parselasyon Planlarına Karşı Dava Açma Süresinin Sınırlandırılması
Authors: Çakır Hüseyin Melih
Published: November 2024

7221 sayılı Kanun’la 3194 sayılı İmar Kanunu’nun 8.maddesine eklenen hüküm “(k)esinleşen imar planları veya parselasyon planlarına karşı kesinleşme tarihinden itibaren her halde beş yıl içinde dava açılabilir” düzenlemesine yer verilmiştir. 14.02.2020 tarihinde yürürlüğe giren Kanun’un getirdiği beş yıllık dava açma süresi sınırı, bu tarihten önce yürürlüğe giren imar ve parselasyon planları açısından 14.02.2025 tarihinden itibaren kişilerin yargı yoluna gitmelerini engelleyici bir nitelik arz etmekte; hak arama özgürlüğünü ölçüsüz şekilde sınırlandırmaktadır. Buna karşın Kanun’un Anayasa’ya uygunluğu, Anayasa Mahkemesi’nce parselasyon planları yönünden itiraz yoluyla incelenmiş ve hukuka uygun bulunmuştur. Bu nedenle, 7221 sayılı Kanun’la getirilen ve imar ve parselasyon planlarına karşı dava açma süresini sınırlandıran hükmün, idari yargının imar ve parselasyon planlarına karşı dava açma süresine ilişkin yıllardır geliştirdiği içtihatlar, imar ve parselasyon planlarının hukuki niteliği, yürürlüğe giriş usulü, başta mülkiyet olmak üzere temel hak ve özgürlüklerle olan ilişkisi, planların hazırlanması ve yürürlüğe konulmasında idarelerin tutum ve davranışları gibi birçok unsur göz önünde bulundurularak ele alınmasını zorunlu kılmıştır. Bu çalışma, imar ve parselasyon planlarına karşı dava açma süresini sınırlandıran kanun hükmü sonrasında ortaya çıkan hukuki durumun ortaya çıkarması müstakbel hukuki problemlerin ortaya konulması ve bu problemlere çözüm önerisi getirme amacı doğrultusunda kaleme alınmıştır.
Financial Turmoil, Uncertainty, and Institutions: Turkey’s Political Economy in Crises
Authors: Yalçiner Serhan
Published: November 2024

Financial turmoil damages national and global economies, but the causes of financial crises vary, with a combination of financial and political factors creating them. By asserting that every financial crisis necessarily involves political aspects, this study aims to certify that the poor policy response of Turkey, which has relied heavily on a “president over institutions” approach, has contributed to the ongoing severe currency and debt crises. Focusing on the two predominantly domestically induced crises of 2001 and 2018, this article analyzes secondary literature and data to put forth a framework that combines the fiscal policy response with a look at the country’s institutional strength and shows how financial uncertainty and instability exacerbated the conditions of the ongoing 2018 crisis. The study also finds that deteriorating political institutions in Turkey, marked by a lack of governmental efficacy that has led to compromised financial and fiscal sustainability, has played a considerable role in the onset of the 2018 crisis.
Single-cell sequencing unveils mitophagy-related prognostic model for triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Ding Peikai , Pei Shengbin , Qu Zheng , Yang Yazhe , Liu Qiang , Kong Xiangyi , Wang Zhongzhao , Wang Jing , Fang Yi
Published: November 2024

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer lacking hormone receptors and HER2 expression, leading to limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Mitophagy, a selective autophagy process targeting damaged mitochondria, plays a complex role in cancer progression, yet its prognostic significance in TNBC is not well understood.

Methods

This study utilized single-cell RNA sequencing data from the TCGA and GEO databases to identify mitophagy-related genes (MRGs) associated with TNBC. A prognostic model was developed using univariate Cox analysis and LASSO regression. The model was validated across multiple independent cohorts, and correlations between MRG expression, immune infiltration, and drug sensitivity were explored.

Results

Nine key MRGs were identified and used to stratify TNBC patients into high-risk and low-risk groups, with the high-risk group showing significantly worse survival outcomes. The model demonstrated strong predictive accuracy across various datasets. Additionally, the study revealed a correlation between higher MRG expression levels and increased immune cell infiltration, as well as potential responsiveness to specific chemotherapeutic agents.

Conclusion

The mitophagy-related prognostic model offers a novel method for predicting outcomes in TNBC patients and highlights the role of mitophagy in influencing the tumor microenvironment, with potential applications in personalized treatment strategies.
Implementing regional blue economy research and innovation strategies: a case study for the Black Sea
Authors: Salihoglu Baris , Yücel Mustafa , Uygurer Pinar , Yücel Ezgi Şahin , Papathanassiou Evangelos , Tezcan Devrim , Stanica Adrian , Stanciu Irina , Moncheva Snejana Petrova , Dzhembekova Nina , Blagovestova Stefanova Kremena , Komorin Viktor , Castravet Tudor , Bilashvili Kakhaber , Melikidze Valerian , Gvilava Mamuka , Kobaidze Salome
Published: November 2024

The Black Sea is a vital resource with vast potential to boost the societal value of the Blue Economy for its surrounding countries. Improved knowledge and enhanced infrastructure together with better coordination and alignment of research and innovation efforts are critical for the better management of the deteriorated Black Sea ecosystem to help restore and maintain its resilience and enable sustainable use of natural resources. In 2019, the Black Sea Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (Black Sea SRIA), was developed by the Black Sea experts, in cooperation with European marine institutes and organizations, with the support of the European Commission. Black Sea SRIA presents the priorities and ecosystem-based management options needed for a healthy, sustainable, and resilient Black Sea. Since 2019, efforts focused on developing concrete actions under the Black Sea SRIA Implementation Plan (IP) to contribute to the national blue economy strategies, better structuring of the relevant funding mechanisms for solution-oriented implementation and the international and regional strategies, supporting the co-funding mechanisms. In this study, we present a transnational process that has led to the development of the IP which utilized a bottom-up, co-design and co-creation-based approach. The SRIA and its IP support better governance of the blue economy principles towards sustainable development and conservation of unique Black Sea ecosystems. The Black Sea SRIA and IP address the fundamental research challenges of the region, promote the blue economy, and also build vital support systems and innovative research infrastructure and capacity together with academia, funding organizations, industry, policy, civil society and local communities. The IP is a long-lasting guide to catalyze new ideas and innovations towards and with the Black Sea community with strong implications for other sea basins.
Cultivation of deep-sea bacteria from the Northwest Pacific Ocean and characterization of Limnobacter profundi sp. nov., a phenol-degrading bacterium
Authors: Kim Mirae , Song Jaeho , Shin Seung Yeol , Kogure Kazuhiro , Kang Ilnam , Cho Jang-Cheon
Published: November 2024

Despite previous culture-independent studies highlighting the prevalence of the order Burkholderiales in deep-sea environments, the cultivation and characterization of deep-sea Burkholderiales have been infrequent. A total of 243 deep-sea bacterial strains were isolated from various depths in the Northwest Pacific Ocean, with 33 isolates (13.6%) from a depth of 4000 m classified into Burkholderiales. Herein, we report the isolation and genome characteristics of strain SAORIC-580T, from a depth of 4000 m in the Northwest Pacific Ocean. The strain showed a close phylogenetic relationship with Limnobacter thiooxidans CS-K2T, sharing 99.9% 16S rRNA gene sequence identity. The complete whole-genome sequence of strain SAORIC-580T comprised 3.3 Mbp with a DNA G+C content of 52.5%. Comparative genomic analysis revealed average nucleotide identities between 79.4–85.7% and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values of 19.9–29.5% when compared to other Limnobacter genomes, indicating that the strain represents a novel species within the genus. Genomic analysis revealed unique adaptations to deep-sea conditions, including genes associated with phenol degradation, stress responses, cold adaptation, heavy metal resistance, signal transduction, and carbohydrate metabolism. The SAORIC-580T genome was found to be more abundant in the deep sea than at the surface in the trenches of the Northwest Pacific Ocean, suggesting adaptations to the deep-sea environment. Phenotypic characterization highlighted distinct differences from other Limnobacter species, including variations in growth conditions, enzyme activities, and phenol degradation capabilities. Chemotaxonomic markers of the strain included ubiquinone-10, major fatty acids such as C16:0, C16:1, and C18:1, and major polar lipids including phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, and diphosphatidylglycerol. Based on the polyphasic taxonomic data, it is concluded that strain SAORIC-580T (= KACC 21440T = NBRC 114111T) represents a novel species, for which the name Limnobacter profundi sp. nov. is proposed.
Common molecular basis for MASH and hepatitis C revealed via systems biology approach
Authors: Cheng Yongwei , Song Zihao , Liu Ye , Xu Xichao , Zhang Dali , Zou Yigui , Liu Liang , Zeng Yinzhen , Li Wenwen , Bai Daming , Dai Dongling
Published: November 2024

Background

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is characterized by liver inflammation and damage caused by a buildup of fat in the liver. Hepatitis C, caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV), is a disease that can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. MASH and hepatitis C are the common causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Several studies have shown that hepatic steatosis is also a common histological feature of liver in HCV infected patients. However, the common molecular basis for MASH and hepatitis C remains poorly understood.

Methods

Firstly, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for MASH and hepatitis C were extracted from the GSE89632, GSE164760 and GSE14323 datasets. Subsequently, the common DEGs shared among these datasets were determined using the Venn diagram. Next, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed based on the common DEGs and the hub genes were extracted. Then, gene ontology (GO) and pathway analysis of the common DEGs were performed. Furthermore, transcription factors (TFs) and miRNAs regulatory networks were constructed, and drug candidates were identified. After the MASH and hepatitis C cell model was treated with predicted drug, the expression levels of the signature genes were measured by qRT-PCR and ELISA.

Results

866 common DEGs were identified in MASH and hepatitis C. The GO analysis showed that the most significantly enriched biological process of the DEGs was the positive regulation of cytokine production. 10 hub genes, including STAT1, CCL2, ITGAM, PTPRC, CXCL9, IL15, SELL, VCAM1, TLR4 and CCL5, were selected from the PPI network. By constructing the TF-gene and miRNA-gene network, most prominent TFs and miRNAs were screened out. Potential drugs screening shows that Budesonide and Dinoprostone may benefit patients, and cellular experiments showed that Budesonide effectively inhibited the expression of genes related to glycolipid metabolism, fibrosis, and inflammatory factors.

Conclusion

We extracted 10 hub genes between MASH and hepatitis C, and performed a series of analyses on the genes. Molecular docking and in vitro studies have revealed that Budesonide can effectively suppress the progression of MASH and hepatitis C. This study can provide novel insights into the potential drug targets and biomarkers for MASH and hepatitis C.
Wuwei Kushen Changrong capsule alleviates DSS-induced colitis in mice via inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome and STAT3 pathway
Authors: Chen Mingjun , Feng Yang , Luo Dan , Zhang Chen , Zhou Jing , Dai Hengheng , Lin Mingxiong , Tong ZhanQi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Wuwei Kushen Changrong capsule (Composite Sophora Colon-soluble Capsule, CSCC) is a Chinese patent medicine developed to treat ulcerative colitis. Studies highlight CSCC potential efficacy for ulcerative colitis (UC) but unclear mechanism limits its widely treatment for patients. We aimed to investigate the anti-colitis efficacy of CSCC and explore the mechanism by which GPR43 inhibits the NLRP3/STAT3 signaling pathway, thereby mediating the protective effects of CSCC on the intestinal barrier.

Methods

The protective effects of CSCC were evaluated in a murine ulcerative colitis model induced by 3% DSS. Assessments included body weight, Disease Activity Index (DAI) score, colon length, and histopathological score. Colon tissue, cell function, and immune-inflammatory status were evaluated using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, ELISA, and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-PCR). Protein expression levels of relevant pathways and receptors were measured using Western blot. All experiments were repeated.

Results

CSCC protected mice from DSS-induced colitis by upregulating Gpr43, promoting the expression of ZO-1 and Occludin tight junction proteins. Mechanistically, CSCC inhibits the MEK4/JNK1/STAT3 activation pathway, consequently suppressing the STAT3/NLRP3/IL-1β pathway and inhibiting the production of inflammatory factors such as IL-17A.

Conclusion

The mechanisms through which CSCC protects against DSS-induced colitis may include upregulating Gpr43, inhibiting the STAT3/NLRP3 pathway, and suppressing inflammation factors like IL-17A. These findings highlight the mechanisms underlying CSCC’s anti-colitis effects and suggest its potential as a therapeutic candidate for managing the progression of UC.
Worldwide study on field trials of biotechnological crops: new promises but old policy hurdles
Authors: Ricroch Agnès , Desachy Louie-David , Penfornis Mateo , Akin Melekşen , Kondić-Špika Ankica , Kuntz Marcel , Miladinović Dragana
Published: November 2024

Field trials (FTs) are a necessary step towards future commercialization of biotech crops and products thereof, whether for research and development or cultivation approval. A total of 187 FTs in 30 countries have been compiled for 2022 and 2023 using a survey and intergovernmental databases. FTs have been classified according to methods, crops and traits. Compiled FTs are mostly conducted by the public sector on eight plant species with improved stress resistance, industrial application, yield, and quality. Regarding genome editing (GenEd), 23 FTs (12% of total) are carried out in 6 countries, on 10 crops. Regulations were examined in 141 countries to discuss why in some countries FTs are not performed, although basic biotech research is carried out. The EU particularly is compared to the rest of the world. Regarding the new proposal in the EU for GenEd product classification, it was found that all recent FTs of such products fall in the category that the EU would consider as ‘equivalent to conventional plants’ (NGT-1). We also studied current cultivation approvals to highlight differences with crops tested in the field and those may be approved in the future.
The reproductive strategy of a typical distylous Ophiorrhiza alatiflora (Rubiaceae), in fragmented habitat
Authors: Li Yu , Yao Ren-Xiu , Xu Bo , Liu Yun-Jing , Li Bai-Zhu , Tang Ming , Yi Yin , Wen Zhi-Rui , Wang Xiao-Yue , Tang Xiao-Xin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Heterostyly is a genetically controlled style polymorphism, that plays an important role in promoting outcrossing and improving reproductive fitness. Although distyly is often studied in plants of the Rubiaceae family, little attention has been paid to the reproductive strategies of distylous species in fragmented habitats. Here, We report for the first time the growth of Ophiorrhiza alatiflora, a type distylous species, in karst areas and evaluate its reciprocity between long styled morph and short one. We analyze the two distyly morph differences in the ancillary polymorphic of flowers and explore their reproductive strategy in fragmented habitats.

Methods

In this study, we measured the floral characteristics of different morphs and performed differential secondary metabolite analysis on different morphs and tissue organs; Different pollination treatments were carried out to observe the fruit set, pollen germination, and pollen tube elongation of O. alatiflora.

Results and discussion

Our research indicates that O. alatiflora is a typical distylous plant for the distyly has high reciprocity. Both morphs exhibit the highest fruit set of intermorph outcrossing; The pollen germination and pollen tube elongation experiments have also demonstrated that the affinity of pollen from intermorph outcrossing is highest, regardless of whether it is the long or short morph as the maternal parent; Meanwhile, O. alatiflora is an incompletely self-incompatible plant that exhibits a certain degree of self-pollination and intramorph outcrossing, which may be one of the important means to ensure sustainable reproduction in severely disturbed habitats. In the ancillary polymorphic of flowers, L-morphs flowers produce more pollen, and S-morph flowers produce more ovules to improve their male-female fitness and compensate for the asymmetry of pollen flow; Compared with S-morphs, L-morphs contain significantly higher levels of several kinds of terpenoids. S-morphs produce more flavonoids than L-morphs. The differences in secondary metabolites between L-morphs and S-morphs are mainly reflected in the different nutritional organs (including stems and leaves). Overall, our work has revealed the unique reproductive strategy of O. alatiflora in fragmented habitats based on the characteristics of distyly, verifying the hypothesis that the distyly of O. alatiflora promotes outcrossing and avoids male-female interference, improving male-female fitness and this is the first time in the Ophiorrhiza genus.
The mediating role of resilience in the relationship between meaning in life and attitude toward death among ICU nurses: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Lifang , Li Sisi , Liu Xiaorong , Li Rong , Li Ran
Published: November 2024

Background

The majority of elderly individuals prefer to spend their final days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). ICU nurses are key providers in hospice care, and their attitudes toward death influence the quality of end-of-life nursing. Positive psychology emphasizes promoting positive attitudes toward death. A sense of meaning in life and resilience are critical aspects of positive psychology, which are essential for shaping ICU nurses’ attitudes toward death.

Objective

This study aims to investigate whether a sense of meaning in life indirectly affects attitudes toward death through the mediation of resilience.

Method

A total of 212 ICU nurses from four tertiary general hospitals in Guangdong and Fujian provinces, China, participated in this study. They completed an online questionnaire, including the Death Attitude Profile-Revised, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and the China Meaning in Life Questionnaire for ICU nurses.

Results

ICU nurses scored highest in natural acceptance (3.26 ± 0.53), followed by escaping acceptance (2.54 ± 0.59), and fear of death (2.53 ± 0.78). The proposed model fit the data well. Both the presence of meaning and the search for meaning were positive predictors of resilience (β = 0.313, p < 0.05; β = 0.256, p < 0.05). Resilience, the presence of meaning, and the search for meaning positively predicted natural acceptance (β = 0.299, p < 0.05; β = 0.294, p < 0.05; β = 0.177, p < 0.05). Conversely, these factors negatively predicted fear of death (β = −0.179, p < 0.05; β = −0.251, p < 0.05; β = −0.192, p < 0.05) and escaping acceptance (β = −0.208, p < 0.05; β = −0.208, p < 0.05; β = −0.219, p < 0.05). Mediation analysis indicated that resilience had a partial mediating role.

Conclusion

The presence of meaning and the search for meaning influence attitudes toward death, with resilience serving as a partial mediator. It is recommended that nursing administrators consider ICU nurses’ attitudes toward death and emphasize the importance of meaning in life and resilience in death education. This approach can help protect the psychological well-being of ICU nurses, promote a deeper understanding of life’s meaning, and develop a scientific perspective on death. Such measures are crucial for providing better humanistic care and psychological comfort to terminally ill patients and their families, thereby improving the quality of end-of-life care.
Personality matters in extremely demanding environments: A bed rest performance study
Authors: Goerke Panja , Marggraf-Micheel Claudia , Stelling Dirk , Soll Henning
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Personality is a rather neglected aspect in bed rest studies. The aim of the study was to clarify which specific personality pattern may predict the performance of bed rest study participants.

Materials and methods

Personality traits were correlated with participants’ performance rated by the team running the study. The sample consisted of N = 68 participants who took part in one of four different studies. A broad set of personality traits correlated with different performance aspects (stability, perseverance, modesty, flexibility, compliance, likability, social adaptation).

Results

Emotional instability showed the highest correlations. Furthermore, participants with low aggressiveness, low empathy and low achievement motivation were rated as more suitable for a study. Additionally, participants with a high extraversion showed a higher social adaptation.

Discussion

The results contribute to the knowledge of the impact of personality in extremely demanding environments and provide first evidence for the identification of an ideal personality profile predicting performance of bed rest study participants.
How to improve public environmental health by facilitating metro usage on weekend: exploring the non-linear and threshold impacts of the built environment
Authors: Peng Bozhezi , Wang Tao , Zhang Yi , Li Chaoyang
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The accelerated motorization has brought a series of environmental concerns and damaged public environmental health by causing severe air and noise pollution. The advocate of urban rail transit system such as metro is effective to reduce the private car dependence and alleviate associated environmental outcomes. Meanwhile, the increased metro usage can also benefit public and individual health by facilitating physical activities such as walking or cycling to the metro station. Therefore, promoting metro usage by discovering the nonlinear associations between the built environment and metro ridership is critical for the government to benefit public health, while most studies ignored the non-linear and threshold effects of built environment on weekend metro usage.

Method

Using multi-source datasets in Shanghai, this study applies Gradient Boosting Decision Trees (GBDT), a nonlinear machine learning approach to estimate the non-linear and threshold effects of the built environment on weekend metro ridership.

Results

Results show that land use mixture, distance to CBD, number of bus line, employment density and rooftop density are top five most important variables by both relative importance analysis and Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) values. Employment density and distance to city center are top five important variables by feature importance. According to the Partial Dependence Plots (PDPs), every built environment variable shows non-linear impacts on weekend metro ridership, while most of them have certain effective ranges to facilitate the metro usage. Maximum weekend ridership occurs when land use mixture entropy index is less than 0.7, number of bus lines reaches 35, rooftop density reaches 0.25, and number of bus stops reaches 10.

Implication

Research findings can not only help government the non-linear and threshold effects of the built environment in planning practice, but also benefit public health by providing practical guidance for policymakers to increase weekend metro usage with station-level built environment optimization.
A generative AI-driven interactive listening assessment task
Authors: Runge Andrew , Attali Yigal , LaFlair Geoffrey T. , Park Yena , Church Jacqueline
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Assessments of interactional competence have traditionally been limited in large-scale language assessments. The listening portion suffers from construct underrepresentation, whereas the speaking portion suffers from limited task formats such as in-person interviews or role plays. Human-delivered tasks are challenging to administer at large scales, while automated assessments are typically very narrow in their assessment of the construct because they have carried over the limitations of traditional paper-based tasks to digital formats. However, computer-based assessments do allow for more interactive, automatically administered tasks, but come with increased complexity in task creation. Large language models present new opportunities for enhanced automated item generation (AIG) processes that can create complex content types and tasks at scale that support richer assessments.

Methods

This paper describes the use of such methods to generate content at scale for an interactive listening measure of interactional competence for the Duolingo English Test (DET), a large-scale, high-stakes test of English proficiency. The Interactive Listening task assesses test takers’ ability to participate in a full conversation, resulting in a more authentic assessment of interactive listening ability than prior automated assessments by positing comprehension and interaction as purposes of listening.

Results and discussion

The results of a pilot of 713 tasks with hundreds of responses per task, along with the results of human review, demonstrate the feasibility of a human-in-the-loop, generative AI-driven approach for automatic creation of complex educational assessments at scale.