bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Using best-worst scaling to inform agroecological interventions in Western Kenya
Authors: Zander Kerstin K. , Drucker Adam G. , Aluso Lillian , Mengistu Dejene K. , Fadda Carlo , Termote Céline , Davis Kristin 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBoth the demand for food and the environmental impacts of food production are estimated to significantly increase by 2050. Agroecological interventions have proven effective in facilitating the transition from current food production systems to more sustainable ones. These interventions can not only ensure more equitable food and nutritional security but also address poverty and reduce environmental impacts. As such, agroecological interventions can generate both private and public ecosystem services. Farmers play a key role in how food is produced, as the practices they use are linked with their preferences and expertise, as well as the constraints they face. Understanding farmers’ preferences for the adoption of different agroecological practices and their perceptions of the associated costs and benefits is critical to informing policies that can effectively support farmers in transitioning to more sustainable practices, including those that contribute to the generation of ecosystem services highly valued by broader society. To assess such preferences, we conducted a survey among farmers in Western Kenya which included a best-worst scaling experiment augmented by qualitative questions about the reasons for farmers’ views about the importance of the benefits arising from agroecological practices. Results show that farmers have strong preferences for adopting agroecological practices that generate private goods and are directly related to increasing productivity and food security, including improving health of household members. These may also include practices that have some public good elements as well, such as increasing agrobiodiversity. However, practices that generate broader public good benefits, including improved forest quality/coverage, reduced off-farm environmental impacts, greater community-level resilience to shocks, and improved landscape and wildlife management, were less important to farmers. Such findings can be used to inform policies that support farmer adoption of agroecological interventions best suited to different farming communities, as well as indicating the need for additional types of market-based incentives, such as through Payments for Ecosystem Service mechanisms.
The Varieties of Russellianism
Authors: Atkins Philip 
Published: June 2024

AbstractRussellianism is the view that the meaning of a proper name is the individual designated by the name. Together with other plausible assumptions, Russellianism entails the following: Sentences containing proper names express Russellian propositions, which involve the individual designated by the name as a direct constituent, and which can be represented as sets of individuals and properties. Moreover, as they occur in ordinary belief reports, ‘that’-clauses designate Russellian propositions. Such belief reports are true if and only if the subject of the belief report bears the belief relation to the proposition designated by the ‘that’-clause. In defending this doctrine, some Russellians appeal to propositional guises, which, roughly speaking, are ways of grasping propositions. However, some Russellians don’t appeal to such entities. In this paper, I explain the varieties of Russellianism and then argue for Modest Russellianism: Believing a Russellian proposition is essentially mediated by guises, so that an agent can’t believe a Russellian proposition without standing in some appropriate relation to both the proposition and a guise. Nonetheless, guises don’t feature in the semantics of ordinary belief reports, so that an adequate account of the meaning of such belief reports needn’t invoke guises.
Sensing volatile organic compounds with CVD graphene: insights from quartz crystal microbalance and surface plasmon resonance studies
Authors: Selvi Hakan , Capan Inci , Capan Rifat , Acikbas Yaser 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study explores the sensing capabilities of chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-grown graphene in detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) through quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) techniques. Two distinct sensing devices were developed, each tailored for QCM and SPR transducing mechanisms, utilizing CVD graphene as the sensing element. The sensors demonstrated consistent and reproducible responses when exposed to various concentrations of dichloromethane, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, benzene, toluene, and m-xylene. Notably, both sensors exhibited unparalleled sensitivity to dichloromethane, with the graphene-coated SPR sensor displaying a sensitivity value of 294 × 10−3 ppm−1 and a limit of detection (LOD) value of 10.62 ppm. Additionally, the SPR sensor showcased remarkably swift response and recovery times, both under 3 sec. Results indicate that the adsorption of VOC molecules on the CVD graphene surface increases with the rising dipole moments and vapor pressure values of the molecules. The utilization of CVD graphene in both sensing approaches demonstrates good reproducibility in detecting ultralow concentrations of VOCs at room temperature.
Steady spectra of supreme resolution and lowest noise in high-order optimized derivative fast Fourier transform for ovarian NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Belkić Dževad , Belkić Karen 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe optimized derivative fast Fourier transform (dFFT) simultaneously increases resolution and reduces noise in spectra reconstructed from encoded time signals. The pertinent applications have recently been published for time signals encoded with and without water suppression by in vitro and in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Even with the employed lower derivative orders, genuine resonances were narrowed, their intensities enhanced and the background baselines flattened. This unequivocally separated many overlapped peaks that are the thorniest problem in data analysis by signal processing. However, it has been common knowledge that higher-order derivative spectra quickly deteriorate with the increased derivative order. The optimized dFFT can challenge such findings. An unprecedented resilience of this processor to derivative-induced distortions is presently demonstrated for high derivative orders (up to 20). The salient illustrations are given for the water residual, lactate quartet and lactate doublet alongside their close surroundings. These applications of diagnostic relevance for patients with cancer are reported for time signals encoded with water suppression by in vitro proton MRS of human ovary.
pyDarwin machine learning algorithms application and comparison in nonlinear mixed-effect model selection and optimization
Authors: Li Xinnong , Sale Mark , Nieforth Keith , Craig James , Wang Fenggong , Solit David , Feng Kairui , Hu Meng , Bies Robert , Zhao Liang 
Published: June 2024

AbstractForward addition/backward elimination (FABE) has been the standard for population pharmacokinetic model selection (PPK) since NONMEM® was introduced. We investigated five machine learning (ML) algorithms (Genetic algorithm [GA], Gaussian process [GP], random forest [RF], gradient boosted random tree [GBRT], and particle swarm optimization [PSO]) as alternatives to FABE. These algorithms were applied to PPK model selection with a focus on comparing the efficiency and robustness of each of them. All machine learning algorithms included the combination of ML algorithms with a local downhill search. The local downhill search consisted of systematically changing one or two “features” at a time (a one-bit or a two-bit local search), alternating with the ML methods. An exhaustive search (all possible combinations of model features, N = 1,572,864 models) was the gold standard for robustness, and the number of models examined leading prior to identification of the final model was the metric for efficiency.All algorithms identified the optimal model when combined with the two-bit local downhill search. GA, RF, GBRT, and GP identified the optimal model with only a one-bit local search. PSO required the two-bit local downhill search. In our analysis, GP was the most efficient algorithm as measured by the number of models examined prior to finding the optimal (495 models), and PSO exhibited the least efficiency, requiring 1710 unique models before finding the best solution. Additionally, GP was also the algorithm that needed the longest elapsed time of 2975.6 min, in comparison with GA, which only required 321.8 min.
Early-life bisphenol A exposure causes neuronal pyroptosis in juvenile and adult male rats through the NF-κB/IL-1β/NLRP3/caspase-1 signaling pathway: exploration of age and dose as effective covariates using an in vivo and in silico modeling approach
Authors: Al-Shami Ahmed S. , Abd Elkader Heba-Tallah Abd Elrahim , Moussa Nermine , Essawy Amina E. , Haroun Medhat 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBisphenol A (BPA), a common endocrine-disrupting chemical, is found in a wide range of home plastics. Early-life BPA exposure has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders; however, the link between neuroinflammation, pyroptosis, and the development of psychiatric disorders is rarely studied. The current study attempted to investigate the toxic effect of BPA on inflammatory and microglial activation markers, as well as behavioral responses, in the brains of male rats in a dose- and age-dependent manner. Early BPA exposure began on postnatal day (PND) 18 at dosages of 50 and 125 mg/kg/day. We started with a battery of behavioral activities, including open field, elevated plus- and Y-maze tests, performed on young PND 60 rats and adult PND 95 rats. BPA causes anxiogenic-related behaviors, as well as cognitive and memory deficits. The in vivo and in silico analyses revealed for the first time that BPA is a substantial activator of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin (IL)-1β, -2, -12, cyclooxygenase-2, and the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, with higher beclin-1 and LC3B levels in BPA rats' PFC and hippocampus. Furthermore, BPA increased the co-localization of caspase-1 immunoreactive neurons, as well as unique neurodegenerative histopathological hallmarks. In conclusion, our results support the hypothesis that neuroinflammation and microglial activation are involved with changes in the brain after postnatal BPA exposure and that these alterations may be linked to the development of psychiatric conditions later in life. Collectively, our findings indicate that BPA triggers anxiety-like behaviors and pyroptotic death of nerve cells via the NF-κB/IL-1β/NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway.
Chromosomal copy number and mutational status are required to authenticate ovarian cancer cell lines as appropriate cell models
Authors: Stordal Britta , Farrelly Angela M. , Hennessy Bryan T. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
The mutational status of ovarian cancer cell line IGROV-1 is inconsistent across the literature, suggestive of multiple clonal populations of the cell line. IGROV-1 has previously been categorised as an inappropriate model for high-grade serous ovarian cancer.

Methods
IGROV-1 cells were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Institute (IGROV-1-NKI) and the MD Anderson Cancer Centre (IGROV-1-MDA). Cell lines were STR fingerprinted and had their chromosomal copy number analysed and BRCA1/2 genes sequenced. Mutation status of ovarian cancer-related genes were extracted from the literature.

Results
The IGROV-1-NKI cell line has a tetraploid chromosomal profile. In contrast, the IGROV-1-MDA cell line has pseudo-normal chromosomes. The IGROV-1-NKI and IGROV-MDA are both STR matches (80.7% and 84.6%) to the original IGROV-1 cells isolated in 1985. However, IGROV-1-NKI and IGROV-1-MDA are not an STR match to each other (78.1%) indicating genetic drift. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene sequences are 100% identical between IGROV-1-MDA and IGROV-1-NKI, including a BRCA1 heterozygous deleterious mutation. The IGROV-1-MDA cells are more resistant to cisplatin and olaparib than IGROV-1-NKI. IGROV-1 has a mutational profile consistent with both Type I (PTEN, PIK3CA and ARID1A) and Type II ovarian cancer (BRCA1, TP53) and is likely to be a Type II high-grade serous carcinoma of the SET (Solid, pseudo-Endometroid and Transitional cell carcinoma-like morphology) subtype.

Conclusions
Routine testing of chromosomal copy number as well as the mutational status of ovarian cancer related genes should become the new standard alongside STR fingerprinting to ensure that ovarian cancer cell lines are appropriate models.
A modified flying-spot laser eye-surgery platform for hyperopic correction
Authors: Abdelhalim Ibrahim , Hassan Aziza Ahmed , Abdelkawi Salwa , Elnaby Salah Hassab , Hamdy Omnia 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLaser corneal reshaping is an eye surgery utilizes UV lasers to modify a targeted corneal surface to correct vision disorders such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. The most commonly used laser type in such treatment is a pulsed gas laser namely argon fluoride (ArF) excimer laser (193 nm). A mixture of Argon, Fluorine and high percentage of Neon gas is utilized for producing the required laser. However, the availability of Neon gas is currently very limited due to the existent Russian-Ukraine war as this region is considered the main supplier of pure Neon gas. The present work provides a novel alternative system for the commercially available corneal reshaping eye surgery devices with a special opening for entering the operational laser beam from external sources. The proposed system is a flying spot platform coupled with a solid state laser, that is a forth harmonic of Nd: YAG laser. The aperture in the system’s design enables it to take in the generated UV-laser beam (266 nm) from the external Nd: YAG laser source. The beam is then modified and directed at the treatment area. The device was tested for hyperopia laser profile algorithm on different targets. Furthermore, the hyperopia profile procedure was also applied to the ex-vivo rabbit eye to investigate the ablation effect on the corneal tissues. The obtained results showed an appropriate ablation effect for hyperopic correction via a complete corneal reshaping platform. Although, the device’s current state may not be appropriate for immediate clinical use. It holds significant value as a training and educational platform.
Influence of the Bulb Geometry and Electrical Supply Parameters on the UV Emission of DBD Excimer Lamps
Authors: Wiesner Arnold , Diez Rafael , Piquet Hubert 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe aim of this article is to improve the performance of DBD excimer lamps systems for UV production. Within this framework, our approach considers two distinct directions: the geometric dimensions of the double-barrier lamp bulb and the characteristics of the power supply. To explore these directions, a sampling of 19 bulbs of different geometries is considered, and a specially designed power supply is used, capable of controlling the shape (duration and magnitude) and frequency of current pulses injected into the plasma. A dedicated test bench, including a supervisory program that drives the power supply and collects system performance data, is used to perform parametric sweeps and guarantee measurement repeatability: the set of electrical parameters is fully explored for each lamp, and each experiment is characterized by UV emission performance and electrical generator operating conditions. Multiquadric response surfaces, used to format the results of this multi-variable exploration, reveal the most efficient directions for system optimization: increasing gas volume and, at a given operating frequency, providing the shortest possible current pulses with high amplitude can increase both UV emission and conversion efficiency.
Exploring the perception of quality of life in urban daily commuting for sustainable urban transport in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Iamtrakul Pawinee , Chayphong Sararad , Yoshitsugu Hayashi 
Published: June 2024

AbstractQuality of life (QoL) in daily travel is increasing in popularity as a research topic since transportation infrastructures and services are instrumental in accessing basic services and social capital benefits in areas such as public health, employment, housing, etc. This accessibility has consequently led to improved QoL for the Bangkok population. In this study, the evaluation of the perception of QoL during the daily travel of Bangkokians in Sukhumvit District, Thailand is conducted using face-to-face interview questionnaires with 500 respondents. The structural equation model (SEM) is employed to quantify QoL and its related multidimensional determinants. Four statistically significant factors affect QoL from the travel perspective: (1) accessibility (p-value 0.001), (2) travel cost (p-value 0.05), (3) environment (p-value 0.05), and (4) information (p-value 0.05). Interestingly, accessibility was found to have the most influence on QoL in daily travel. Therefore, policymakers are recommended to consider the degree to which QoL may be affected to establish transportation policies that are more acceptable, practical, and efficient.
Integrative approaches in modern agriculture: IoT, ML and AI for disease forecasting amidst climate change
Authors: Delfani Payam , Thuraga Vishnukiran , Banerjee Bikram , Chawade Aakash 
Published: June 2024

AbstractPlant disease forecasting models, driven by concurrent data and advanced technologies, are reliable tools for accurate prediction of disease outbreaks in achieving sustainable and productive agricultural systems. Optimal integration of Internet of Things (IoTs), machine learning (ML) techniques and artificial intelligence (AI), further augment the capabilities of these models in empowering farmers with proactive disease control measures towards modern agriculture manifested by efficient resource management, reduced diseases and higher crop yields. This article summarizes the role of disease forecasting models in crop management, emphasizing the advancements and applications of AI and ML in disease prediction, challenges and future directions in the field via (a) The technological foundations and need for validation testing of models, (b) The advancements in disease forecasting with the importance of high-quality publicly available data and (c) The challenges and future directions for the development of transparent and interpretable open-source AI models. Further improvement of these models needs investment in continuous innovative research with collaboration and data sharing among agricultural stakeholders.
Identification and Molecular Mechanism of Anti-inflammatory Peptides Isolated from Jack Bean Protein Hydrolysates: in vitro Studies with Human Intestinal Caco-2BBe Cells
Authors: Wijatniko Bambang Dwi , Yamamoto Yoshinari , Hirayama Makoto , Suzuki Takuya 
Published: June 2024

AbstractJack bean (JB), Canavalia ensiformis (L.) DC, is a commonly cultivated legume in Indonesia. It is rich in protein, which can be hydrolyzed, making it potentially a good source of bioactive peptides. Intestinal inflammation is associated with several diseases, and the production of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in intestinal epithelial cells induced by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α has an important role in inflammatory reaction. The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of peptides generated from enzymatic hydrolysis of JB protein on human intestinal Caco-2BBe cells. Additionally, in silico approaches were used to identify potential bioactive peptides. JB protein hydrolysate (JBPH) prepared using pepsin and pancreatin reduced the IL-8 expression at protein and mRNA levels in Caco-2BBe cells stimulated with TNF-α. Immunoblot analysis showed that the JBPH reduced the TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun-NH(2)-terminal kinase, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and p38 proteins. Anti-inflammatory activity was observed in the 30% acetonitrile fraction of JBPH separated on a Sep-Pak C18 column. An ultrafiltration method revealed that relatively small peptides (< 3 kDa) had a potent inhibitory effect on the IL-8 production. Purification of the peptides by reversed-phase and anion-exchange high performance chromatography produced three peptide fractions with anti-inflammatory activities. A combination of mass spectrometry analysis and in silico approaches identified the potential anti-inflammatory peptides. Peptides derived from JB protein reduces the TNF-α-induced inflammatory response in Caco-2BBe cells via NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways. Our results may lead to a novel therapeutic approach to promote intestinal health.
Earnings myopia and private equity takeovers
Authors: Hribar Paul , Kravet Todd , Krupa Trent 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
We examine the role of private equity in alleviating earnings myopia induced by public markets. We first construct a measure of earnings myopia and show that this measure varies as predicted with determinants and effects of myopia. Then we show that public firms exhibiting earnings myopia realize an increased likelihood of takeover by private equity buyers. Cross-sectional analyses indicate that this relation is strongest when costs of earnings myopia are likely higher. Following private equity takeovers, firms exhibiting greater measures of earnings myopia realize improvements to R&D investment and productivity. The results add to the understanding of the role of private equity in identifying and alleviating earnings myopia within U.S. capital markets. This is important given the increasing size of private equity assets under management. Takeover premiums paid for myopic firms suggest a cost of earnings myopia at approximately 6.9% of firm value.
Government procurement contracts, external audit certification, and financing of small- and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Kinyua Kelvin Mugambi , Changwony Frederick Kibon , Campbell Kevin 
Published: June 2024

AbstractEntrepreneurs worldwide often face obstacles in financing their businesses, hindering their ability to grow. Government procurement offers an opportunity to access lucrative contracts and benefit from a procurement auditing process that could enhance access to finance. Likewise, externally audited financial statements can enhance credibility and lessen financing hurdles. We examine whether government procurement contracts and external audit certifications jointly influence financing access and whether ownership, size, and firm age matter. We find that access to finance is more likely to be an obstacle to the operations of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with government procurement contracts than those without such contracts, regardless of whether they seek external audit certification. Additionally, the effect of external audit certification on the likelihood of access to finance being an obstacle to SME operations reduces sharply with foreign ownership, size, and age for SMEs involved in government procurement. We also find that the impact of government procurement contracts reverses for SMEs in low- and lower-middle-income countries. Our findings have policy implications, especially with the growing implementation of affirmative action programs to promote the involvement of SMEs in government procurement.