bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Spring Distribution across Pakistan: Implications for Water Security
Authors: Akbar Ghani , Iqbal Muhammad Bilal
Published: February 2025

Springs play a vital role in Pakistan’s water security, particularly in remote regions where they serve as a lifeline for agriculture, livestock, and domestic needs. However, increased pressure on spring resources from climate change, population growth, deforestation, and land degradation has significantly declined their availability. Springs have been largely overlooked in both research and policy formulation in Pakistan. This study assesses the distribution and status of springs across Pakistan’s main provinces and regions. Focusing on the springs data from the 2023 Survey of Pakistan, along with population data from the 2023 census and climatic data from the nearest stations of Pakistan Meteorological Department, this study maps the spatial distribution of springs and examines the influence of environmental parameters, such as rainfall, temperature, elevation, and slope on their existence. The findings highlight that 81% of the nation’s springs are concentrated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Baluchistan provinces, with substantial regional dependency on these resources. The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region of Pakistan host 5051 springs (28%) for the 21 million people in Pakistan. Approximately 114 million people live in 108 spring districts with an average of 26,252 persons per spring, while the average spring density is around three springs per hectare. Through province-level mapping, this study underscores the urgent need for sustainable policies to conserve springs and improve water security. This study emphasized on the need for sustainable water management policies and their urgent field implementation that prioritize spring conservation and adaptation to climate change impacts.
ДРЕВНИЕ РУДНЫЕ ИСТОЧНИКИ МЕТАЛЛУРГИИ В СРЕДНЕАЗИАТСКОМ МЕЖДУРЕЧЬЕ
Authors: Рузанов Владимир
Published: February 2025

В эпоху палеометалла металлургия Среднеазиатского Междуречья базировалась на рудных базах Узбекистана и Таджикистана. Свидетельствами наличия собственного металлургического производства служат следы выплавки меди, олова и полиметаллов, полуфабрикаты, литейные формы, слитки, капельки металла и, наконец, изделия, найденные на поселениях, в могильниках и рудниках и вблизи них. Основная масса находок происходит из памятников, расположенных в Зарафшанском, Фергано-Ташкентском и Кызылкумском регионах. Очевидно, здесь существовали крупные центры добычи меди, олова и полиметаллов, а также производства изделий древнейшего периода.Согласно статистической обработке результатов спектрального анализа, металлические коллекции культур и памятников в Северной и Центральной зоне Среднеазиатского Междуречья подразделяются на 23 химические группы, что предполагает использование соответствующего количества рудных источников меди и полиметаллов, без учета источников олова. Надо отметить разные связи древней металлургии Среднеазиатского Междуречья с источниками сырья на том или ином этапе ее развития. Так, в эпоху энеолита местные мастера (Саразм, Шагым и культура Заманбаба) чаще употребляли металл иранских и афганских источников, значительно реже в это время использовалась медь местных месторождений, например, Кызылкумской горнорудной области и Заравшанской металлогенической провинции. Разработка рудников в северной зоне, охватывающей Чаткальско-Кураминскую горнорудную область, начинается в эпоху бронзы (первая половина II тыс. до н. э.). Позднее, во второй половине II – первой четверти I тыс. до н. э., судя по высоким долям изделий в коллекции, генетически связанных с месторождениями и рудопроявлениями Чаткальских и Кураминских гор, эксплуатация последних активизируется.
Rodent Diversity in Desert Wetlands of Oued Righ Region, Septentrional Sahara, Algeria
Authors: Hadjoudj Moussa , Bekkari Naceureddine
Published: February 2025

The species diversity of rodents in desert wetlands in the Oued Righ Region (Touggourt, Sahara) in Algeria was inventoried. The study was conducted in three similar wetland landscapes: Ayata, Merdjadja and Sidi Slimane. Sampling was implemented using 24 live-traps at each station based on the Random Sampling Design. The sampled species belonged to the family Muridae. The three sampled localities demonstrated differences and similarities in terms of species composition. To describe the diversity of rodent’s communities, the species richness (S), relative abundance, relative frequency and the Shannon-Weaver Index were used. In Ayata Lake, the subfamily Murinae dominated, represented by Mus musculus L., 1758 (50%) and Rattus rattus L., 1758. InMerdjadja Lake, the subfamily Gerbillinae dominated, with Gerbillus nanus Blanford, 1875 (36.67%) and G. tarabuli Thomas, 1902 (20.00%). In the Sidi Slimane Wetland, the Gerbillinae was the dominant subfamily, represented by Gerbillus tarabuli (41.17%), G. nanus Blanford, 1875 (29.41%) and G. gerbillus Olivier, 1800 (11.76%). Only one individual of Meriones libycus Lichtenstein, 1823 was captured at the Sidi Slimane Wetland.
Littératie et capital vidéoludique : approche systématique et textométrique d’un domaine hétéroclite
Authors: Houlmont Pierre-Yves , Dupont Bruno , Hansen Damien
Published: February 2025

Cet article offre une analyse textométrique de la mobilisation du concept de capital vidéoludique dans la littérature scientifique anglophone. Le capital ludique est un concept qui partage des similitudes avec la littératie, mais qui s’en différencie par bien des aspects, qui n’ont pas encore fait l’objet d’assez d’attention scientifique. Dans cet article, nous avons récupéré de manière systématique des productions scientifiques incluant la notion de capital ludique ainsi que des références à Mia Consalvo, dont les travaux constituent la première théorisation opératoire du capital ludique. Ensuite, grâce à la combinaison d’une analyse par mots-clés et d’une analyse factorielle des correspondances (AFC), nous avons identifié cinq sous-ensembles thématiques clés : 1) les paramètres du capital, 2) l’apprentissage et la compréhension, 3) les études des communautés, 4) les questions d’identité et d’empowerment et 5) les moyens et signes du capital. L’étude met en évidence l’évolution de la littératie, qui dépasse actuellement les enjeux d’éducation. Par l’identification des cinq sous-ensembles, nous mettons en évidence la proximité du concept de capital vidéoludique avec le concept de littératie, mais également des domaines encore en friche pertinents pour les recherches futures en littératie vidéoludique en vue d’une éducation aux médias critique, ainsi que pour une étude plus poussée du champ de recherche lui-même.
Impact of Macroeconomic and Environmental Factors on Household Debts in G7 Countries
Authors: Osmanovic Nasiha , Alvi Shaista
Published: February 2025

This article aims to study the influence of macroeconomic and ecological factors on household debts. The quantitative method of OLS multiple Regression is applied to the data used for this research from the period 2003 to 2021. To establish the macroeconomic factor, the metrics are the real house price index with the base year 2015, unemployment as % of the labour force, and short-term interest rate per annum. Research shows that house price and unemployment have a noteworthy relationship with the dependent variable, while trade in goods significantly adversely affects household debt. In respect to the climate change factors, results reveal that annual surface temperature and annual emissions of CO2 have a favourable and notable impact on household debt. The only insignificant effect on household debts had been shown by the short interest rate. The beneficiaries of this research can include policymakers, economists, and financial institutions who are interested in understanding the factors that affect household debts. The significant relationship between household debt and factors such as house prices, unemployment, export trade, climate change factors, etc. reflect underlying economic disparities in these countries. The results of this research could benefit policymakers and economist in farther understanding the environmental factors that influence household debts.
Effect of Eleutherine americana (aubl.) Merr ethanol extracts against high lipid profile and arterial stiffness in high-fat high-cholesterol diet-induced rats
Authors: Putra Hendra Mahakam , Istiqomah Aulia Nurfazri , Hasimun Patonah , Aplilianti Nursifa , Aligita Widhya
Published: February 2025

Comprehensive studies have been carried out on Dayak onion (Eleutherine americana (aubl.) Merr) and its effects on cardiovascular health, specifically on dyslipidemia. However, its effect in relation to arterial stiffness has not been well-studied. This study aims to assess the impact of ethanol extracts of E. americana on high cholesterol levels and arterial stiffness in an animal model with dyslipidemia generated by a high-fat high-cholesterol (HFC) diet. Daily dosages of E. americana at 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight (BW) were administered to the rats for 60 days and their lipid profile, arterial stiffness, heart rate (HR), and histopathology were measured and compared to rats receiving no treatment (negative control) and simvastatin at 1.8 mg/kg BW (positive control). The results indicated that an HFC diet increases the likelihood of cardiovascular issues by raising lipid levels and encouraging the progression of atherosclerosis. This then leads to an increase in arterial stiffness and HR. The ethanol extract of E. americana successfully prevented the rise in lipid profiles and the progression of atherosclerosis, hence preventing HR from increasing and arterial stiffness. The highest effective dosage of E. americana was 100 mg/kg BW, with 50 mg/kg BW yielding similar performance to 1.8 mg/kg BW of simvastatin.
LC-MS/MS profiling and in silico molecular docking analysis of water-soluble bioactive compounds from Pleurotus pulmonarius as potential immunomodulators on monocyte immune response
Authors: Arromsava Artittaya , Chuchawankul Siriporn , Amornsupak Kamolporn
Published: February 2025

Pleurotus pulmonarius is an affordable edible fungus extensively utilized in food and traditional medicine. This study aims to comprehensively profile the water-soluble bioactive compounds in P. pulmonarius and identify those responsible for modulating monocyte immune response. The crude extract, prepared through hot water extraction, was analyzed for its biological activities using untargeted LC/MS-MS analysis and molecular docking. The potential compound-targeted proteins in monocytes were investigated and further identified using the MCODE algorithm. The pharmacokinetic properties and the biological activity of tentative compounds were studied using absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) and PASS analysis. The findings revealed that 164 chromatographic peaks were detected in ESI-positive mode, and 36 bioactive compounds were proposed. The top seven candidate compounds found abundantly in the mushroom were selected, including diacylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, glutathione, quercetin 3-(6-O-acetyl-beta-glucoside), dihydroresveratrol, and aspartic acid. Notably, glutathione, quercetin, and dihydroresveratrol demonstrated promising potential proinflammatory inhibitors, with their binding affinities surpassing those of known inhibitors (−2.32 kcal/mol for glutathione; −6.76 kcal/mol for quercetin and −5.02 to −7.02 kcal/mol for dihydroresveratrol). Additionally, dihydroresveratrol showed promise as an immunomodulatory agent due to its favorable absorption, distribution, and safety profile. These findings highlight the potential of P. Pulmonarius, particularly dihydroresveratrol as a natural alternative immunomodulator for addressing monocyte-related inflammation.
Stereotype of mouse social competency and status revealed by a novel competition paradigm in combination with available paradigms
Authors: Liu Meiqiu , Chen Yue , Chen Rongqing
Published: February 2025

With the acceleration of urbanization process, psychological, behavioral and biological studies on social organization and competition are boosting. The mouse has been recognized as valuable and economic model animal for biomedical research in social behaviors, but the application of reliable, valid and easily executable social competition paradigm for mouse is still limited. Moreover, discrepant paradigms containing different competitive factors such as muscular confrontation, threatening level, boldness or timidity tendency might lead to task-specific win-or-lose outcomes and confusing rankings. Here, we developed a convenient mouse competition behavioral paradigm in which contenders were a pair of mice eager to take over the same food pellet hidden under a movable block in the middle of a narrow chamber where they were separated to the either right or left side. Our design mentality of this food pellet competition test (FPCT) avoids the direct violent competition between mice and facilitates to expose the psychological motivation of the contenders. Application of FPCT in combination with typically available paradigms, tube test and warm spot test (WST), discovered a stereotypic property of mouse social organization and competitivity in a given society of either males or females that were raised in an either 2– or 3-member cage, indicating that hierarchical sense of animals might be part of a comprehensive identify of self-recognition of individuals in an established society. More importantly, FPCT may largely facilitate the researches regarding the social organization and competition due to its reliability, validity and easy operability.
Synthetic gene circuits that selectively target RAS-driven cancers
Authors: Senn Gabriel , Nissen Leon , Benenson Yaakov
Published: February 2025

Therapies targeting mutated RAS, the most frequently mutated oncogene in human cancers, could benefit millions of patients. Recently approved RAS inhibitors represent a breakthrough, but are limited to a specific KRAS
G12C
mutation and prone to resistance. Synthetic gene circuits offer a promising alternative by sensing and integrating cancer-specific biomolecular inputs, including mutated RAS, to selectively express therapeutic proteins in cancer cells. A key challenge for these circuits is achieving high cancer selectivity to prevent toxicity in healthy cells. To address this challenge, we present a novel approach combining multiple RAS sensors into RAS-targeting gene circuits, which allowed us to express an output protein in cells with mutated RAS with unprecedented selectivity. We implemented a modular design strategy and modelled the impact of individual circuit components on output expression. This enabled cell-line specific adaptation of the circuits to optimize selectivity and fine-tune expression. We further demonstrate the targeting capabilities of the circuits by employing them in different RAS-driven cancer cells. This work highlights the potential of synthetic gene circuits as a novel therapeutic strategy for RAS-driven cancers, advancing the application of synthetic biology in oncology.
Tissue-specific responses to TFAM and mtDNA copy number manipulation in prematurely ageing mice
Authors: Kremer Laura S , Gao Guanbin , Rigoni Giovanni , Filograna Roberta , Mennuni Mara , Wibom Rolf , Végvári Ákos , Koolmeister Camilla , Larsson Nils-Göran
Published: February 2025

Somatic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations are heavily implicated as important drivers of ageing and age-related diseases. Their pathological effect can be partially counteracted by increasing the absolute amount of wild-type mtDNA via moderately upregulating TFAM, a protein important for mtDNA packaging and expression. However, strong TFAM overexpression can also have detrimental effects as it results in hypercompaction of the mtDNA and subsequent impairment of mtDNA gene expression. In this study, we have experimentally addressed the propensity of moderate TFAM modulation to improve the premature ageing phenotypes of mtDNA mutator mice, carrying random mtDNA mutations. Surprisingly, we detect tissue-specific endogenous compensatory mechanisms acting in mtDNA mutator mice which largely affects the outcome of TFAM modulation. Accordingly, moderate overexpression of TFAM can have both negative and beneficial effects in different tissues of mtDNA mutator mice. We see a similar behavior for moderate TFAM reduction, which improves brown adipocyte tissue homeostasis, while other tissues are largely unaffected. Our findings highlight that regulation of copy number and gene expression of mtDNA is complex and cause tissue-specific effects that should be considered when modulating TFAM levels. Additionally, we suggest that TFAM is not the sole determinant of mtDNA copy number in situations where oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) is compromised but other important players must be involved.
Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) activity is modulated by light and gates rapid phase shifts of the circadian clock
Authors: Brenna Andrea , Borsa Micaela , Saro Gabriella , Ripperger Jürgen A , Glauser Dominique A , Yang Zhihong , Adamantidis Antoine , Albrecht Urs
Published: February 2025

The circadian clock enables organisms to synchronize biochemical and physiological processes over a 24 hr period. Natural changes in lighting conditions, as well as artificial disruptions like jet lag or shift work, can advance or delay the clock phase to align physiology with the environment. Within the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, circadian timekeeping and resetting rely on both membrane depolarization and intracellular second-messenger signaling. Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) facilitate calcium influx in both processes, activating intracellular signaling pathways that trigger Period (Per) gene expression. However, the precise mechanism by which these processes are concertedly gated remains unknown. Our study in mice demonstrates that cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) activity is modulated by light and regulates phase shifts of the circadian clock. We observed that knocking down Cdk5 in the SCN of mice affects phase delays but not phase advances. This is linked to uncontrolled calcium influx into SCN neurons and an unregulated protein kinase A (PKA)-calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase (CaMK)-cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway. Consequently, genes such as Per1 are not induced by light in the SCN of Cdk5 knock-down mice. Our experiments identified Cdk5 as a crucial light-modulated kinase that influences rapid clock phase adaptation. This finding elucidates how light responsiveness and clock phase coordination adapt activity onset to seasonal changes, jet lag, and shift work.
An online intelligent detection method for slurry density in concept drift data streams based on collaborative computing
Authors: Wang Lanhao , Wang Hao , Wei Taojie , Dai Wei , Wang Hongyan
Published: February 2025

In industrial environments, slurry density detection models often suffer from performance degradation due to concept drift. To address this, this article proposes an intelligent detection method tailored for slurry density in concept drift data streams. The method begins by building a model using Gaussian process regression (GPR) combined with regularized stochastic configuration. A sliding window-based online GPR is then applied to update the linear model’s parameters, while a forgetting mechanism enables online recursive updates for the nonlinear model. Network pruning and stochastic configuration techniques dynamically adjust the nonlinear model’s structure. These approaches enhance the mechanistic model’s ability to capture dynamic relationships and reduce the data-driven model’s reliance on outdated data. By focusing on recent data to reflect current operating conditions, the method effectively mitigates concept drift in complex process data. Additionally, the method is applied in industrial settings through collaborative computing, ensuring real-time slurry density detection and model adaptability. Experimental results on industrial data show that the proposed method outperforms other algorithms in all density estimation metrics, significantly improving slurry density detection accuracy.
Lengthened partial repetitions elicit similar muscular adaptations as full range of motion repetitions during resistance training in trained individuals
Authors: Wolf Milo , Androulakis Korakakis Patroklos , Piñero Alec , Mohan Adam E. , Hermann Tom , Augustin Francesca , Sapuppo Max , Lin Brian , Coleman Max , Burke Ryan , Nippard Jeff , Swinton Paul A. , Schoenfeld Brad J.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Resistance training using different ranges of motion may produce varying effects on musclular adaptations. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of lengthened partial repetitions (LPs) vs. full range of motion (ROM) resistance training (RT) on muscular adaptations.

Methods

In this within-participant study, thirty healthy, resistance-trained participants had their upper extremities randomly assigned to either a lengthened partial or full ROM condition; all other training variables were equivalent between limbs. The RT intervention was an 8-week program targeting upper-body musculature. Training consisted of two training sessions per week, with four exercises per session and four sets per exercise. Muscle hypertrophy of the elbow flexors and elbow extensors was evaluated using B-mode ultrasonography at 45% and 55% of humeral length. Muscle strength-endurance was assessed using a 10-repetition-maximum test on the lat pulldown exercise, both with a partial and full ROM. Data analysis employed a Bayesian framework with inferences made from posterior distributions and the strength of evidence for the existence of a difference through Bayes factors.

Results

Both muscle thickness and unilateral lat pulldown 10-repetition-maximum improvements were similar between the two conditions. Results were consistent across outcomes with point estimates close to zero, and Bayes factors (0.16 to 0.3) generally providing “moderate” support for the null hypothesis of equal improvement across interventions.

Conclusions

Trainees seeking to maximize muscle size should likely emphasize the stretched position, either by using a full ROM or LPs during upper-body resistance training. For muscle strength-endurance, our findings suggest that LPs and full ROM elicit similar adaptations.
Assessing Mobile Money Security Threats and User Satisfaction in Bushenyi District, Uganda
Authors: Kyomuhendo Medrine , Mutebi Joe , Venkatachalam Maninti , Sewanyina Muniru
Published: February 2025

Mobile money services have revolutionized financial transactions in Uganda, particularly in rural areas like Bushenyi District, by providing accessible and convenient financial solutions. However, increasing usage has led to growing concerns over fraud, cybercrime, and security vulnerabilities. Users face risks such as unauthorized access, identity theft, and phishing scams, which can undermine trust. Understanding these threats and their impact on user confidence is essential for improving security and ensuring long-term adoption. This study examines key security threats affecting mobile money users in Bushenyi District, focusing on their prevalence, impact on user satisfaction and behavior, and possible solutions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating surveys and interviews with mobile money users, agents, and service providers. Quantitative analysis measured user satisfaction and behavioral intentions, while qualitative insights provided a deeper understanding of user concerns. Results highlight security risks such as SIM card fraud, phishing attacks, and unethical agent practices. Despite a high satisfaction score (19.74), security concerns affect users' willingness to continue using mobile money services. A strong behavioral intention score (16.292) suggests that satisfied users are likely to stay engaged, but security fears can hinder further adoption. Strengthening fraud prevention, enhancing user awareness, and enforcing stricter regulatory oversight are crucial to improving trust. Mobile money providers should prioritize real-time fraud detection and user education to ensure continued adoption and confidence in these services.
Effects of Well Water Sources on Performance of Laying Hens in Ile-Oluji of Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ugochukwu Uzohuo, , Johnson Akinlosoye, Jide , Ezekiel Awolu, Taiwo , Michael Aderotimi, Tobi
Published: February 2025

The study was conducted to survey the effect of well water sources on production of laying hens in selected poultry farms in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, Nigeria. The study area was divided into three portions namely Agric. Village, Ajiferere and Temidire. Six (6) poultry farms with laying hens 45 weeks of age and of similar breed (ISA Brown) were sampled (2 Farms from each area). 200 laying hens were sampled from each farm making it a total of 1,200 hens managed in battery cage and on the same brand of commercial feed and similar other routine management practices. Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of four replicate (50 layers each x 4) per treatment (well water source) per farm was applied. Data was collected daily on hen day-production, feed intake, water intake and egg weight for seven (7) weeks, while water samples were collected and analyzed for chemical parameters. Chemical parameters (nitrite, sodium, sulphate, pH, chloride and total hardness) indicated significant differences (p ≤ 0.01) among the samples from different locations, but within the range recommended by (FAO), except, Ajiferere 1 (0.35mg/l ± 0.1) in nitrite content, with corresponding negatively affected 0n egg production (69.25 ± 0.88). Correlation analysis indicated that sodium (- 0.57) and nitrite (- 0.526) contents exhibited the first and second highest negative impacts on hen-day production respectively, while pH (-0.154) and chloride content (-0.338) exhibited the first and second least negative impact on hen-day production. Correlation value (0.328) between hen-day production and total hardness of water samples indicated positive, within the range of value. This value, perhaps, indicated that hen-day production increased positively with total hardness. It was concluded that there is a significant variation in the chemical parameters of well water as well as in the interaction of mineral content of water sources and hen-day production.
Analyzing Anemia Spread among Nigerian Children Aged 0-59 Months
Authors: Grace Alo Nihinlolawa , Abiodun Adetunji Ademola
Published: February 2025

Background: Anemia remains one of the most difficult public health problems to manage in malaria-endemic countries of Africa, affecting more than half of children less than five years old. It poses a major public health issue that increases the risk of child mortality.
Objectives: The study seeks to estimate the spatial distribution and quantify the effects of socioeconomic variables on the level and spread of anemia prevalence among young children in Nigeria
Methods: The study used data from the 2010 and 2015 Nigeria Malaria Indicator Survey carried out by the National Population Commission (NPC) in conjunction with The Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) Program. The hemoglobin level of the children was considered as a response variable. A structured additive distributional regression model that quantifies the effects of variables of different types was considered and parameter estimation was through a Bayesian approach.
Results: From the 10972 respondents, Female children have a slightly higher average Hb (11.17 g/dl) than male children (10.88g/dl). The average Hb for all the children residing in urban areas is 11.10g/dl (95% CI: 10.98 to 111.22) while it is 10.87 g/dl (95% CI: 10.78 to 10.96) for those living in rural areas and About 369/4978 (7.4%) of children who had malaria in the last 2 weeks had severe anemia while 2556/4978 (51.3%) had moderate anemia where children in North West were associated with significantly higher Hb level
Conclusions: The children that had a fever in the last two weeks do not contribute to Hb level but children that reside in rural areas are most likely to be anemic. Children are less likely to be anemic when the hemoglobin level tends to be high, therefore, Anemia among young children can be cured through a combination of various nutritional interventions such as micronutrient supplementation and through the proper treatment of diseases that causes a shortage in red blood cells.
Expectation of Freshman Retention Rate at University of Guam Based on Data Analysis: A Case Study
Authors: Zou Yousuo , Gogue Kaitlyn
Published: February 2025

As students begin their college journey, most look at each college’s retention rate as a measure of quality. The University of Guam (UOG) provides quality education for students in the Pacific region. For the past 8 years, UOG’s retention rate has surpassed the USA’s average retention rate for Title IV postsecondary institutions. Recently, UOG ranked in the Top 100 Best Regional Universities in the West by U.S. News & World Report. Due to these achievements, UOG’s retention rate should be a clear reflection of the university’s quality. This report uses the Enhanced Stenger Method (or Extended SINC Methods) for nonlinear data patterns and employed the Simplest Nonlinear Analytic Data Function to predict UOG’s retention rate for the next 5 years and compares UOG’s retention rate to the average retention rate for Title IV postsecondary institutions in the USA
Effects of Prolonged Administration of High Fat Diet on Serum Biochemical, Haematological and Organ Histology in Rats
Authors: Onyebuchi Nsiadu Anthony , Kalu Achi Ngozi , Christopher Ohaeri Obioma , John Ohiagu Chukwuemeka
Published: February 2025

Background: Numerous health challenges have been associated with lipid peroxidation andoxidative damage due to increased consumption of fatty diets.
Aim: This study evaluated serum biochemical and haematological parameters, tissue antioxidant activities and histopathological changes in wistar rats administered high fat diet.
Methods: Forty rats of both sexes weighing 120-150g and assigned to 4 groups of 10 rats each were used. Groups 1 and 2 served as female and male controls respectively, while groups 3 was the female test group which received high fat diet. Group 4 was the male test group which also received high fat diet. Treatment lasted 16 weeks before animals were sacrificed to collect blood and tissue samples for serum biochemical analyses including liver function, renal function and antioxidants tests. Slides of liver and kidney samples were also prepared for histopathological examination.
Results: When compared with control results obtained in the high fat treated rats showed significant increase in body weight gain (p<0.05), increased lipid peroxidation activity (MDA), significant decrease in activities of tissue antioxidant enzymes like glutathione transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) andsuperoxide dismutase (SOD), PON 1 and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration with higher PCO values (p<0.05). Liver function parameters including aspartate aminotransferase(AST), alanine aminotransferase(ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein and bilirubin had higher values in the high fat treated rats than control. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol and very low density lipoprotein concentrations were also higher in the high fat treated groups but values of high density lipoprotein cholesterol did was not significantly altered following treatment (p>0.05). Haematological parameters like number of red blood cells, packed cell volume and haemoglobin concentration, all significantly reduced in the high fat groups (p<0.05), but number of white blood cells increased significantly. Histopathological examination of liver tissues showed areas with fibrosis, steanosis and lobular inflammations in the high fat groups.
Conclusion: Increased lipid peroxidation and decline in antioxidant defense may account for higher cardiovascular disease risks and its associated complications commonly seen among high fat consumers.
Analisis Desain Karakter dan Worldbuilding pada Game “Juragan Kost” sebagai Representasi Visual Budaya Kos-Kosan di Indonesia
Authors: Najmura Tsasyshaum Alna , Ratri Dianing
Published: February 2025

Permainan seringkali dibuat dengan merepresentasikan kehidupan sehari-hari agar pemain dapat merasakan pengalaman dari kegiatan dalam game tersebut dan memunculkan identitas suatu hal. Pada game “Juragan Kost”, desain karakter dan worldbuilding tersebut dapat berperan untuk merepresentasikan visual budaya kos-kosan. Penelitian bertujuan untuk menganalisis representasi visual budaya kos-kosan yang muncul dengan menganalisis tiga kategori karakter menggunakan metode Manga Matrix dan worldbuilding menggunakan teori dari The Kobold Guide to Worldbuilding. Melalui analisis yang dilakukan, karakter dan worldbuilding di dalam Game Juragan Kos dirancang dengan matang menggunakan visual budaya kos-kosan yang ada di Indonesia sebagai referensi dan ditunjukkan melalui visual game.
Perancangan Film Animasi sebagai Alat Sosialisasi untuk Mendukung Implementasi Peraturan Gubernur No. 1 Tahun 2020 tentang Legalitas Arak Bali
Authors: Indira Wahyu , Putra Gede Bayu Segara , Wasista I Putu Udiyana
Published: February 2025

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menciptakan media sosialisasi dalam bentuk film animasi yang mengkaji Peraturan Gubernur Bali Nomor 1 Tahun 2021. Penelitian ini menitikberatkan pada penyajian informasi terkait regulasi ini dengan memper-timbangkan aspek sosiokultural dalam konteks keberadaan arak Bali. Metodologi penelitian dibagi menjadi tiga tahap: tahap inspirasi, tahap konsepsi, dan tahap implementasi. Hasilnya adalah produksi film dengan penerapan prinsip narasi piramida Freytag, dengan niatan untuk mencapai efek dramatis dan memicu kebingungan pada penonton. Pendekatan ini diambil dengan tujuan yang rasional, yaitu untuk mendorong masyarakat Indonesia untuk mengadopsi perilaku berliterasi yang berpikir kritis saat menganalisis eksistensi arak Bali.
Implementing Maximum Fair Price Without Hurting Pharmacies
Authors: Mattingly T. Joseph , Esterly Anthony A. , Kaltenboeck Anna
Published: May 2024

This Viewpoint discusses challenges pharmacies may face under the Inflation Reduction Act and steps that can be taken to prevent unintended consequences.
Living in a noisy world—origins of gene expression noise and its impact on cellular decision‐making
Authors: Pal Sampriti , Dhar Riddhiman
Published: May 2024

The expression level of a gene can vary between genetically identical cells under the same environmental condition—a phenomenon referred to as gene expression noise. Several studies have now elucidated a central role of transcription factors in the generation of expression noise. Transcription factors, as the key components of gene regulatory networks, drive many important cellular decisions in response to cellular and environmental signals. Therefore, a very relevant question is how expression noise impacts gene regulation and influences cellular decision‐making. In this Review, we summarize the current understanding of the molecular origins of expression noise, highlighting the role of transcription factors in this process, and discuss the ways in which noise can influence cellular decision‐making. As advances in single‐cell technologies open new avenues for studying expression noise as well as gene regulatory circuits, a better understanding of the influence of noise on cellular decisions will have important implications for many biological processes.
Metal Halide Perovskite Single Crystals toward Electroluminescent Applications
Authors: Wang Chaoqiang , Chen Shuai , Jie Jiansheng , Tian Chao , Jia Ruofei , Wu Xiaofeng , Zhang Xiaohong , Zhang Xiujuan
Published: May 2024

Metal halide perovskite single crystals (MHP SCs) have attracted extensive attention due to their superior properties, such as higher carrier mobility, longer carrier diffusion length, and better stability than their polycrystalline counterparts. In particular, the suppression of ion migration and Auger recombination endows MHP SCs with excellent electroluminescence (EL) properties, thus holding great potential for highly efficient and stable light‐emitting devices. In this review, general overview of MHP crystal structures are begin, and highlight the merits of MHP SCs in terms of outstanding optoelectronic properties and high stability. Then, appropriate growth methods of high‐quality, thickness‐controlled MHP SCs for EL device applications are systematically summarized. Subsequently, recent advancements in developing MHP SC‐based perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are discussed, and the effective strategies to further enhance the device performance are reviewed. Moreover, the potential application of MHP SCs for electrically pumped lasers is highlighted. Finally, the review is concluded with a detailed account of the current challenges and a perspective on the key approaches and opportunities on the optimization of SC growth, the improvement of device performance and the integration of SC‐based optoelectronic devices.
2D Perovskite Nanosheet‐Driven Polymeric Nanocomposites as Gate Dielectrics for Flexible Negative‐Capacitance Applications
Authors: Park Se Yeon , Jang Moonjeong , Kim Jin , Cho Sam Yeon , Bu Sang Don , Kang Saewon , Yim Soonmin , Lee Sun Sook , Yoon Dae Ho , An Ki‐Seok
Published: May 2024

Designing composite gate dielectrics tailored by incorporating inorganic perovskite nanofillers into a polymer matrix to develop flexible low‐voltage transistors can be challenging because homogeneous dispersion of nanomaterials in the matrix is difficult to achieve; thus, degradation of the electrically insulating properties of nanocomposite layers is often observed. In this study, nanocomposite dielectrics are presented that consist of 2D Ba5Ta4O15 nanosheets (BTO NSs) for the first time. Perovskite BTO is introduced using the Langmuir–Blodgett method to construct a precise and pinhole‐free interface for the homogeneous assembly of 2D nanosheets. Its high k value and ferroelectric properties, which arise from the perovskite structure, can be harnessed to achieve attractive polarization and remarkable electronic properties. The 2D BTO NSs can also be utilized as phase crystallization fillers to enhance the ferroelectric properties of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Additionally, the multilayer PVDF/perovskite nanosheet hybrid dielectric, which reaches an unprecedentedly high dielectric constant of 22.4, exhibits effective dielectric relaxation related to the interfacial induced ferroelectric polarization and decisive negative‐capacitance response.
Tailoring the Electronic Structures and Spectral Properties of ZnO with Irradiation Defects Generated Under Intense Electronic Excitation: A Combined Experimental and DFT Approach
Authors: Han Xinqing , Li Runhan , Pan Shangfa , Liu Yong , Niu Chengwang , Crespillo Miguel L. , Zarkadoula Eva , Liu Peng
Published: May 2024

The relationship between the composition of the internal defect states, spectral properties, and correlated electronic structures of wurtzite zinc oxide (ZnO) crystals under 645 MeV Xe35+ irradiation is systematically investigated, employing experimental characterizations combined with first‐principle calculations. Based on the ion irradiation‐induced thermal expansion and relaxation processes, the high concentration of vacancy/interstitial defects produced from the transient disordered phase in molten track states trigger photoelectric changes, as follows: i) the generation of internal defect states effectively reduces the intrinsic bandgap (3.25 eV → 2.66 eV); ii) a large number of defective active sites inhibits the recombination between electron–hole pairs, causing dark conductance and photoconductance to increase with increasing damage levels until optimal fluence is achieved. Based on the density functional theory (DFT) with the GGA + U (GGA = generalized gradient approximation) method, the defective models associated with the different electronic structures, density of states, formation energy, and the nature of the chemical bonding are established. The narrowing of the bandgap observed experimentally and the enhancement of carrier concentration originating from the internal electron defect states are qualitatively verified, therefore laying the foundation for designing future nanoscale photoelectronic devices and microelectronics applications.
Gas Adsorption Mechanism on 2D Materials: The Hyperpolarizability Evolution Analyzed by Nonlinear Optics
Authors: Yen Ting‐Yu , Hung Yang‐Hao , Lee Yu‐Zen , Ho Yen‐Teng , Lan Yann‐Wen , Wu Chiu‐Hsien , Hung Kuan‐Ming , Lo Kuang Yao
Published: May 2024

While understanding the competitive adsorption behavior of gas sensor is important, it is yet to be unraveled. Especially for the influence of water molecules to the gas adsorbed on 2D materials. This study explores the potential of layered 2D materials as a candidate material for gas sensing, employing non‐destructive measurement, and second harmonic generation (SHG). The investigation focuses on analyzing oxygen, ammonia, and water vapor adsorbed on a WS2 surface by studying the evolutions in electric dipole and electric field. Leveraging the simplified bond hyperpolarizability model (SBHM), a foundation is established for gas sensors utilizing high‐quality 2D materials. This approach facilitates the detection of material modifications in response to environmental influences, including the inevitable water molecules. The obtained hyperpolarizability from SBHM exhibits remarkable consistency with Langmuir's adsorption model, confirming the physical adsorption in the system. In addition, the competitive effects between gases are explored by comparing experimental results with theoretical predictions based on Boltzmann distribution and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This highlights the effectiveness of SHG and SBHM in studying gas adsorption on layered van der Waals materials.
Phospholipid‐Modified Titanium Surface‐Loaded Apoptotic Extracellular Vesicles Promote Early Angiogenesis and Improve Implant Osseointegration Through Immune Regulation
Authors: Chen Yicheng , Ning Xiaona , Zhu Simin , Xin He , Ren Xiaomin , Wang Pei , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yufan , Chen Yijing , Li Yunpeng , Liu Fuwei , Ding Feng
Published: May 2024

Tissue‐engineered extraction products, such as apoptotic extracellular vesicles (ApoEVs), significantly promote tissue regeneration, endowing them with the potential to improve osseointegration. However, there is an urgent need to determine how to effectively load these materials onto a material surface to maximize their function. Considering that all such products have a phospholipid bilayer, a phospholipid‐modified implant coating is designed that can effectively load tissue‐engineered products with a phospholipid bilayer structure. ApoEVs are effectively loaded onto the surface and the osteogenic effect improved, achieving good osseointegration. In vitro experiments show that this material improves angiogenesis by promoting macrophage M1 polarization and NO secretion in the early stages. In vivo experiments show that after implantation, it effectively improve the peri‐implant vascularization of the implant, thereby improving the new bone formation ability and osseointegration. This study provides a universal solution for loading vesicular tissue‐engineered products onto an implant surface and validates its ability to improve bone fusion using ApoEVs as an example while exploring its mechanism.
Attaining Substantially Enhanced Oxygen Evolution Reaction Rates on Ni Foam Catalysts in a Gas Diffusion Electrode Setup
Authors: Berner Etienne , Wiberg Gustav Karl Henrik , Arenz Matthias
Published: May 2024

Water electrolysis plays a central role in the transition to a fossil‐free society, but there are significant challenges to overcome in order to increase its availability on a large scale. Alkaline water electrolysis is a mature and scalable technology, although it has several disadvantages compared to electrolyzers working in acidic environments. In particular, the use of highly alkaline aqueous electrolytes can lead to corrosion, and the achieved current densities are relatively low. This study addresses the latter limitation by introducing a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) setup as a novel development tool that bridges the gap between research and practical applications in commercial devices such as fuel cells and electrolyzers. A high surface area Ni foam catalyst that can sustain exceptional oxygen evolution reaction (OER) current densities of up to 4 A cm−2 in a quasi‐steady‐state within our GDE setup operating in an alkaline environment is presented. The high performance of this Ni‐based benchmark catalyst is attributed to its deposition onto a mesh‐like porous transport layer (PTL) via hydrogen‐templated electrodeposition. This forms a porous foam‐like structure that augments the mass transport of the gaseous reactants at the GDE.
TL‐GNN: Android Malware Detection Using Transfer Learning
Authors: Raza Ali , Qaisar Zahid Hussain , Aslam Naeem , Faheem Muhammad , Ashraf Muhammad Waqar , Chaudhry Muhammad Naman
Published: May 2024

Malware growth has accelerated due to the widespread use of Android applications. Android smartphone attacks have increased due to the widespread use of these devices. While deep learning models offer high efficiency and accuracy, training them on large and complex datasets is computationally expensive. Hence, a method that effectively detects new malware variants at a low computational cost is required. A transfer learning method to detect Android malware is proposed in this research. Because of transferring known features from a source model that has been trained to a target model, the transfer learning approach reduces the need for new training data and minimizes the need for huge amounts of computational power. We performed many experiments on 1.2 million Android application samples for performance evaluation. In addition, we evaluated how well our framework performed in comparison with traditional deep learning and standard machine learning models. In comparison with state‐of‐the‐art Android malware detection methods, the proposed framework offers improved classification accuracy of 98.87%, a precision of 99.55%, recall of 97.30%, F1‐measure of 99.42%, and a quicker detection rate of 5.14 ms using the transfer learning strategy.
Bridging Nickel‐MOF and Copper Single Atoms/Clusters with H‐Substituted Graphdiyne for the Tandem Catalysis of Nitrate to Ammonia
Authors: Wang Biwen , Ma Jiahao , Yang Rong , Meng Bocheng , Yang Xiubo , Zhang Qiuyu , Zhang Bin , Zhuo Sifei
Published: May 2024

Interfacial engineering of synergistic catalysts is one of the keys to achieving multiple proton‐coupled electron transfer processes in nitrate‐to‐ammonia conversion. Herein, by joining ultrathin nickel‐based metal–organic framework (denoted Ni‐MOF) nanosheets with few‐layered hydrogen‐substituted graphdiyne‐supported copper single atoms and clusters (denoted HsGDY@Cu), a tandem catalyst of Ni‐MOFs@HsGDY@Cu with dual‐active interfaces was developed for the concerted catalysis of nitrate‐to‐ammonia. In such a system, the sandwiched HsGDY layer could serve as a bridge to connect the coordinated unsaturated Ni2+ sites with Cu single atoms/clusters in a limited range of 0 to 3.6 nm. From Ni2+ to Cu, via the hydrogen spillover process, the hydrogen radicals (H⋅) generated at the unsaturated Ni2+ sites could migrate across HsGDY to the Cu sites to participate in the transformation of *HNO3 to NH3. From Cu to Ni2+, bypassing the higher reaction energy for *HNO3 formation on the Ni2+ sites, the NO2− detached from the Cu sites could diffuse onto the unsaturated Ni2+ sites to form NH3 as well. The combined results make this hybrid a tandem catalyst with dual active sites for the catalysis of nitrate‐to‐ammonia conversion with improved Faradaic efficiency at lower overpotentials.