bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The role of governance and infrastructure in moderating the effect of resource rents on economic growth
Authors: Asongu Simplice A. , Diop Samba , Emeka Ekene ThankGod , Ogbonna Amarachi O. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study investigates how governance and infrastructure moderate the effect of natural resource rents on economic growth using a sample of 110 countries from 2000 to 2018. The empirical evidence is based on panel smooth transition regressions (PSTR). The nexus between economic growth and natural resources is not linear and the underlying non‐linearity is contingent on existing infrastructural and governance levels. Evidence of a “natural resource curse” is apparent in countries with extremely low levels of governance and infrastructural development. The favorable effect of natural resources on economic growth requires a governance threshold of −1.210 and an infrastructure threshold of 2.583, indicating that countries with governance and infrastructure levels higher than these values tend to benefit much more from the wealth of natural resources. Countries identified below the established thresholds are mainly from Africa. Policy implications are discussed with specific emphasis on African countries.Related ArticlesAli, Hamid E., and Shahjahan Bhuiyan. 2022. “Governance, Natural Resources Rent, and Infrastructure Development: Evidence from the Middle East and North Africa.” Politics & Policy 50(2): 408–40. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12451.Asiegbu, Martin F., Okey Marcellus Ikeanyibe, Pius Otu Abang, Okwudili Chukwuma Nwosu, and Chuka Eugene Ugwu. 2024. “Natural Resource Fund Governance and the Institutionalization of Rent Seeking in Nigeria's Oil Sector.” Politics & Policy 52(1): 169–95. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12579.Ikeanyibe, Okechukwu M. 2018. “Bureaucratic Politics and the Implementation of Liberalization Reforms in Nigeria: A Study of the Unbundling and Reorganization of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.” Politics & Policy 46(2): 263–94. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12249.
Correlations between blood vessel distribution, lung function and structural change in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Hu Po‐Wei , Chen Chun‐Ku , Hsiao Yi‐Han , Weng Ching‐Yao , Lee Ying‐Chi , Su Kang‐Cheng , Feng Jia‐Yih , Chou Kun‐Ta , Perng Diahn‐Warng , Ko Hsin‐Kuo 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackground and ObjectiveCorrelations between the image analysis of CT scan, lung function and quality of life in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the impacts of pulmonary blood‐vessel distribution and the extent of fibrosis on the lung function and quality of life of patients with IPF.MethodsPatients were enrolled in an IPF registry and had completed pulmonary function tests, chest HRCT, St. George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and echocardiography. Pulmonary blood‐vessel distribution, specific image‐derived airway volume (siVaw) and fibrosis extent (siVfib) were quantitatively calculated by functional respiratory imaging on HRCT.ResultsThe study subjects were categorized into DLco <40% pred. (n = 40) and DLco ≥40% pred. (n = 19) groups. Patients with DLco <40% pred. had significantly higher scores of SGRQ, composite physiologic index (CPI), exercise oxygen desaturation (∆SpO2), siVaw, lower FVC% pred. and 6‐minute walking distance% pred. The proportion of small blood vessels in the upper lobes (BV5PR‐UL) was significantly correlated with CPI, DLco % Pred., FVC% pred., SGRQ and ∆SpO2. Only BV5PR‐UL had a significant impact on all indices but not BV5PR in the lower lobes (BV5PR‐LL). siVfib was significantly negatively correlated with BV5PR‐UL, DLco% pred. and FVC% pred., as well as positively correlated with CPI, ∆SpO2 and siVaw.ConclusionBV5PR‐UL and siVfib had significant correlations with lung function and may become important indicators to assess the severity of IPF and the impact on quality of life.
Reducing uncertainty in dose–response assessments by incorporating Bayesian benchmark dose modeling and in vitro data on population variability
Authors: Lu En‐Hsuan , Ford Lucie C. , Rusyn Ivan , Chiu Weihsueh A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThere are two primary sources of uncertainty in the interpretability of toxicity values, like the reference dose (RfD): estimates of the point of departure (POD) and the absence of chemical‐specific human variability data. We hypothesize two solutions—employing Bayesian benchmark dose (BBMD) modeling to refine POD determination and combining high‐throughput toxicokinetic modeling with population‐based toxicodynamic in vitro data to characterize chemical‐specific variability. These hypotheses were tested by deriving refined probabilistic estimates for human doses corresponding to a specific effect size (M) in the Ith population percentile (HDMI) across 19 Superfund priority chemicals. HDMI values were further converted to biomonitoring equivalents in blood and urine for benchmarking against human data. Compared to deterministic default‐based RfDs, HDMI values were generally more protective, particularly influenced by chemical‐specific data on interindividual variability. Incorporating chemical‐specific in vitro data improved precision in probabilistic RfDs, with a median 1.4‐fold reduction in uncertainty variance. Comparison with US Environmental Protection Agency's Exposure Forecasting exposure predictions and biomonitoring data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey identified chemicals with margins of exposure nearing or below one. Overall, to mitigate uncertainty in regulatory toxicity values and guide chemical risk management, BBMD modeling and chemical‐specific population‐based human in vitro data are essential.
“Divide et impera”? A financial assessment of the (de)concentration in the Brazilian reinsurance market
Authors: de França Carvalho João Vinícius , Song Maryana Lin 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study aims to shed light on the relatively obscure landscape of industrial organization within the reinsurance sector, particularly in Brazil, which was among the last nations to dismantle state monopoly. Our objective is to assess the impact of concentration in the Brazilian reinsurance market on reinsurer performance. Employing traditional indexes from Industrial Organization literature and utilizing regression models for panel data, we examine the elasticity of revenues from reinsurers as a reflection of the sector's competitive structure. The data set comprises 78,190 observations from 164 reinsurers across 22 lines of business (LOB) monthly spanning from 2008 to 2022. The findings reveal a pronounced market concentration, with higher industry concentration correlating with diminished premium revenues across most LOBs. Additionally, Local reinsurers enjoy substantial advantages over Admitted and Occasional counterparts. Notably, factors such as portfolio diversification and economic group affiliation prove significant, particularly concerning the category of reinsurer.
Donor‐derived dengue infections – A review of screening protocol and outcomes in an endemic country
Authors: Tan Sophie Seine Xuan , Nordin Samsudin Bin , Tan Chee‐Kiat , Tan Thuan Tong , Chung Shimin Jasmine , Chan Kian Sing , Tan Ban Hock 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundDonor‐derived dengue infections present significant challenges to organ transplantation, particularly in endemic regions like Singapore. Although primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, dengue can also be transmitted through organ transplantation, occasionally with fatal outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes and evolution of dengue screening protocols for potential deceased donors in Singapore from 2006 to 2022.MethodsInitially, screening was done via dengue immunoglobulin M (IgM), targeting donors with specific clinical criteria (thrombocytopenia, drop in platelet count, prolonged prothrombin time/partial thromboplastin time, and discretion of the transplant team), later transitioning to blood dengue reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) in 2007 with similar criteria, and subsequently universal screening in 2016. In 2021, urine dengue RT‐PCR was added following a case of donor‐derived dengue infection from an aviremic but viruric donor.ResultsOut of 431 potential deceased donors, 395 (91.6%) underwent dengue screening, with six (1.5%) testing positive for dengue. In 2006, three positive screens were identified: two through dengue IgM and one via blood dengue RT‐PCR; subsequent years saw one positive screen each in 2007, 2008, and 2019 via blood dengue RT‐PCR. Potential deceased donors with a positive blood dengue screen were rejected as solid organ and tissue donors. Those with negative blood dengue RT‐PCR but positive urine dengue RT‐PCR would be rejected as kidney donors, but the use of other organs and tissues was at the discretion of the transplantation team.ConclusionThe optimal screening protocol remains uncertain, but our findings suggest that a universal screening strategy utilizing both blood and urine dengue RT‐PCR could be considered in dengue‐endemic countries.
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Numerical Investigation of the Indoor Environmental Factors With Stratum and Underfloor Air Distribution Systems in an Educational Institute Computer Laboratory
Authors: Lakshmanan Ramesh Krishnan , Lachireddi Gangadhara Kiran Kumar 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Ventilation with optimal airflow patterns is the most significant aspect in controlling airborne transmission as well as providing an improved indoor thermal environment and air quality in an energy-efficient way. Conducting the air-conditioned computer laboratory in educational institutes during the pandemic is challenging. This article presents a comparative study on various aspects related to indoor environmental quality factors, including thermal comfort indices, vertical air temperature differences, draught rate, air distribution effectiveness, CO2 concentration levels, energy saving, and dispersion of exhaled droplets of aerosols in different sizes (0.5 μm, 6 μm, 20 μm, and 45 μm). The study examines these factors by comparing 12 cases with different air distribution strategies (stratum, underfloor), air change rates (15 ACH and 20 ACH), and return outlet positions (1.3 m, 1.8 m, and 2.3 m). The numerical investigation is carried out in the educational institute computer laboratory model with the dimensions of 10 m (length), 5 m (width), and 3 m (height). The findings indicated that stratum ventilation and underfloor air distribution (UFAD) at a rate of 20 ACH, along with the placement of the return outlet in position 2, would ensure adequate ventilation, acceptable thermal comfort, and optimal energy savings. Compared to the overhead air distribution system, the maximum energy savings were obtained at 10.15% and 10.07% in both stratum and underfloor air distribution systems. Furthermore, the higher air distribution index and ventilation parameter were acquired in the UFAD system at 20 ACH. This study provides a better understanding of air distribution systems and aerosol particle dispersion in the indoor environment of a computer laboratory.
Data-Driven Radial Compressor Design Space Mapping
Authors: Brind J. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Estimates of turbomachinery performance trends inform system-level compromises during preliminary design. Existing empirical correlations for efficiency use limited experimental data, while analytical loss models require calibration to yield predictive results. From a set of 3708 radial compressor computations, this paper maps efficiency as a function of mean-line aerodynamics, and determines the governing loss mechanisms. An open-source turbomachinery design code creates annulus and blade geometry, then runs a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulation for compressors sampled from the mean-line design space. Polynomial surface fits yield a continuous eight-dimensional representation of the design space for analysis, predicting efficiency with a root-mean-square error of 1.2% points. The results show a balance between surface dissipation in boundary layers and mixing loss due to casing separations sets optimum values for inlet Mach number, hub-to-tip ratio, de Haller number, and backsweep angle. Surface dissipation drives the effect of flow coefficient, with high surface areas at low values, and high velocities at high values. Compact compressor designs are achieved by increasing inlet Mach number, reducing hub-to-tip ratio, and minimizing the radial loading coefficient—all of which reduce efficiency approaching design space boundaries. An interactive web-based tool makes the results available to practising engineers, demonstrating large ensembles of automated designs and simulations as a higher-fidelity replacement for legacy empirical correlations in preliminary design.
Effect of External Work Magnitude on Mechanical Efficiency of Sledge Jumping
Authors: Seki Keitaro , Kyröläinen Heikki 
Published: August 2024

The mechanical efficiency of human locomotion has been studied extensively. The mechanical efficiency of the whole body occasionally exceeds muscle efficiency during bouncing type gaits. It is thought to occur due to elasticity and stiffness of the tendinomuscular system and neuromuscular functions, especially stretch reflexes. In addition, the lower limb joint kinetics affect mechanical efficiency. We investigated the impact of varying external work on mechanical efficiency and lower limb kinetics during repeated sledge jumping. Fifteen male runners performed sledge jumping for 4 minutes at 3 different sledge inclinations. Lower limb kinematics, ground reaction forces, and expired gases were analyzed. Mechanical efficiency did not differ according to sledge inclination. Mechanical efficiency correlated positively with the positive mechanical work of the knee and hip joints and the negative contribution of the hip joints. Conversely, it correlated negatively with both the positive and negative contributions of the ankle joint. This may be attributable to the greater workload in this study versus previous studies. To achieve greater external work, producing more mechanical energy at the proximal joint and transferring it to the distal joint could be an effective strategy for improving mechanical efficiency because of the greater force-generating capability of distal joint muscles.
A case study to engage students in evolutionary thinking around antibiotic resistance using the MEGA-plate experiment
Authors: Carr Stephanie A. , Mathews Stephanie L. , Pruneski Justin A. , Stasulli Nikolas M. 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

In this article, we describe curricular materials developed to engage undergraduate students in evolutionary thinking around antibiotic resistance using the MEGA-plate experiment (Microbial Evolution and Growth Arena). This elegant and visual experiment, developed by the Kishony Lab, shows the development of antibiotic resistance on the timescale of hours and days. It not only provides important biological insights but also captures students’ attention, making it a very useful tool for education. While a short video describing the method and major results has already been widely used in the classroom setting, our case study connects details of the methods and results of the MEGA-plate experiment and antibiotic resistance to core biological concepts. The interrupted case study consists of four major parts: 1) an opening hook activity to capture students’ attention and introduce the antibiotic crisis, 2) a jigsaw activity to research different classes of antibiotic targets and the resistance mechanisms that can arise, 3) a discussion of antibiotic resistance in real-time using the MEGA-plate experiment video, and 4) three different options for students to dive deeper into the experimental data from the MEGA-plate research article. These components are modular and can be used in many different combinations to reach different audiences or connect to other topics related to microbiology, evolution, or genetics.
Exam reform: an opportunity for the redistribution of academic power
Authors: Crowther Gregory J. , Wiggins Benjamin L. 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Students in STEM know well the stress, challenge, and effort that accompany college exams. As a widely recognizable feature of the STEM classroom experience, high-stakes assessments serve as crucial cultural gateways in shaping both preparation and motivation for careers. In this essay, we identify and discuss issues of power around STEM exams to further the understanding of exam practices that can unjustly hold students back. Through theory and practical examples, we consider the numerous ways in which power manifests both on and off the pages of the exams themselves, as well as ways in which power is consolidated away from students through logistical norms and tradeoffs. Centering the “rules of the culture of power” as delineated by Dr. Lisa Delpit, we reflect on exam practices that prioritize faculty voice and faculty convenience above student learning and student identity. We share some of what we have learned from our students as part of a call to improve STEM education by relinquishing some of our exam-related power over students, redistributing it to students so that they have more power to shape their own education.
Metrological evaluation of DNA extraction method effects on the bacterial microbiome and resistome in sputum
Authors: Benčič Aleksander , Toplak Nataša , Koren Simon , Bogožalec Košir Alexandra , Milavec Mojca , Tomič Viktorija , Lužnik Dane , Dreo Tanja 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Targeted high-throughput sequencing (HTS) has revolutionized the way we look at bacterial communities. It can be used for the species-specific detection of bacteria as well as for the determination of the microbiome and resistome and can be applied to samples from almost any environment. However, the results of targeted HTS can be influenced by many factors, which poses a major challenge for its use in clinical diagnostics. In this study, we investigated the impact of the DNA extraction method on the determination of the bacterial microbiome and resistome by targeted HTS using principles from metrology and diagnostics such as repeatability and analytical sensitivity. Sputum samples spiked with
Acinetobacter baumannii
,
Klebsiella pneumoniae
, and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
at three different concentrations (10
3
–10
6
cells/mL) were used. DNA was extracted from each sample on 2 separate days in three replicates each using three different extraction methods based on cetrimonium bromide, magnetic beads, and silica membranes. All three spiked bacteria were detected in sputum, and the DNA extraction method had no significant effect on detection. However, the DNA extraction method had significant effects on the composition of the microbiome and the resistome. The sequencing results were repeatable in the majority of cases. The silica membrane-based DNA extraction kit provided the most repeatable results and the highest diversity of the microbiome and resistome. Targeted HTS has been shown to be a reliable tool for determining the microbiome and resistome; however, the method of DNA extraction should be carefully selected to minimize its impact on the results.

IMPORTANCE
High-throughput sequencing (HTS) is one of the crucial new technologies that gives us insights into previously hidden parts of microbial communities. The DNA extraction method is an important step that can have a major impact on the results, and understanding this impact is of paramount importance for their reliable interpretation. Our results are of great value for the interpretation of sputum microbiome and resistome results obtained by targeted HTS. Our findings allow for a more rational design of future microbiome studies, which would lead to higher repeatability of results and easier comparison between different laboratories. This could also facilitate the introduction of targeted HTS in clinical microbiology for reliable identification of pathogenic bacteria and testing for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). As AMR is a major threat to public health, the improved methods for determining AMR would bring great benefits to both the healthcare system and society as a whole.
Profiles and interactions of gut microbiome and intestinal microRNAs in pediatric Crohn’s disease
Authors: Lv Yao , Zhen Changjun , Liu Ana , Hu Yudie , Yang Gan , Xu Cuifang , Lou Yue , Cheng Qi , Luo Youyou , Yu Jindan , Fang Youhong , Zhao Hong , Peng Kerong , Yu Yu , Lou Jingan , Chen Jie , Ni Yan 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Gut dysbiosis is closely related to dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs) in the intestinal epithelial cells, which plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Crohn’s disease (CD). We investigated the relationship between fecal gut microbiome (GM) and intestinal tissue miRNAs in different stages of pediatric CD. Metagenomic analysis and miRNA sequencing were conducted to examine the GM and intestinal miRNA profiles of CD patients before and after clinical induction therapy and the controls. Twenty-seven newly diagnosed, therapy-naïve pediatric patients with active CD and 11 non-inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) controls were recruited in this study. Among CD patients, 11 patients completed induction treatment and reached clinical remission. Both GM and miRNA profiles were significantly changed between CD patients and controls. Seven key bacteria were identified at species level including
Defluviitalea raffinosedens
,
Thermotalea metallivorans
,
Roseburia intestinalis
,
Dorea
sp. AGR2135,
Escherichia coli
,
Shigella sonnei
, and
Salmonella enterica
, the exact proportions of which were further validated by real-time quantitative PCR analysis. Eight key miRNAs were also identified including hsa-miR-215-5p, hsa-miR-194-5p, hsa-miR-12135, hsa-miR-509-3-5p, hsa-miR-212-5p, hsa-miR-4448, hsa-miR-501-3p, and hsa-miR-503-5p. The functional enrichment analysis of differential miRNAs indicated the significantly altered cyclin protein, cyclin-dependent protein, and cell cycle pathway. The close interactions between seven key bacteria and eight key miRNAs were further investigated by miRNA target prediction. The association between specific miRNA expressions and key gut bacteria at different stages of CD supported their important roles as potential molecular biomarkers. Understanding the relationship between them will help us to explore the molecular mechanisms of CD.

IMPORTANCE
Since previous studies have focused on the change of the fecal gut microbiome and intestinal tissue miRNA in pediatric Crohn’s disease (CD), the relationship between them in different stages is still not clear. This is the first study to explore the gut microbiota and miRNA and their correlations with the Pediatric Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (PCDAI). Crohn’s Disease Endoscopic Index of Severity (CDEIS), and calprotectin, by applying two omics approach in three different groups (active CD, CD in remission with exclusive enteral nutrition or infliximab induction therapy, and the healthy controls). Both gut microbiome structure and the miRNA profiles were significantly changed in the different stage of CD. Seven key gut microbiome at species and eight key miRNAs were found, and their close interactions were further fully investigated by miRNA target prediction.