bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
LncIMF1 promotes adipogenesis of porcine intramuscular preadipocyte by sponging miR-187
Authors: Feng Ming , Yi Xudong , Zhang Ziyi , Zhu Jiahua , Yu He , Ming Lianxi , Pang Weijun 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Intramuscular fat, which is closely related to the traits of tenderness, juiciness, and flavor of pork, was regulated by numerous molecular regulatory mechanisms that have been regarded as an important agricultural research area. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging regulators involved in adipogenesis due to their functional diversity. In this study, we identified a novel lncRNA related to porcine adipogenesis, named lncIMF1, based on previous RNA sequencing results. Our results suggested that lncIMF1 was most abundantly expressed in adipose tissue and located in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. Besides, lncIMF1 promoted the proliferation and differentiation, while inhibited apoptosis of intramuscular preadipocytes. Moreover, lncIMF1 could act as a molecular sponge for miR-187, inhibiting the binding of miR-187 and SMAD1, thereby promoting the expression of SMAD1 and enhancing the adipogenic differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes. Additionally, we found that lncIMF1-miR187-SMAD1 axis could activate the p38-MAPK pathway. Taken together, our study provided new insights into the role of lncRNAs in the regulation of pork quality.
Impact of Forest Density on Atmospheric Boundary Layer Flow and Turbulence for Wind Energy Applications
Authors: Chaudhari Ashvinkumar , Vita Giulio , Adedipe Taiwo , Hellsten Antti 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Nowadays, it is common to build a wind farm in forest area as wind-energy production is growing rapidly. However, surrounding forests change the local wind conditions drastically and thus there is a need to understand the interaction of local wind conditions with forest properties. The present work aims at investigating the impact of various forest densities on the flow characteristics in the lower part of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL). Here, Large-Eddy Simulations (LES) of wind flow over horizontally homogeneous forest canopies are carried out for four different forest densities. The LES results of the reference forest case are compared against corresponding field measurements and close agreement between the numerical results and measurements is observed. The LES results reveal a significant impact of forest density on the normalized mean wind shear just above the canopy and also within the rotor-disk area. Further, the results on turbulence properties are found to be highly sensitive to the forest density. In particular, the results show a non-monotonic relationship between turbulent variables and density at typical turbine hub heights. The variations in hub-height turbulence level with respect to the canopy density suggest subsequent changes in power output as well as in fatigue loading of wind turbines.
Factors associated with risky sexual behaviors among undergraduate students in Thailand
Authors: Benchamas Jintapa , Padchasuwan Natnapa Heebkaew , Laoraksawong Pokkamol , Senahad Nopparat 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Risky sexual behaviors are actions or practices that increase the risk of sexual intercourse. Such behavior can lead to HIV infection/AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, and unintended pregnancy. The impact of risky sexual behaviors is a growing public health problem
Method
A cross-sectional analytical study was designed to investigate factors associated with risky sexual behaviors. The study was conducted among 916 undergraduate students in the second semester of the 2023 academic year at public universities/autonomous universities and private universities, in Thailand. The study was conducted from March to May 2024. The analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression.
Results
The results revealed 7 factors associated with risky sexual behaviors: academic records (AOR = 1.60; 95% CI = 1.20–2.12; p value = 0.001), drug use (AOR = 1.20; 95% CI = 0.52–2.78; p = 0.004), smoking (AOR = 3.17; 95% CI = 1.95–5.16; p < 0.001), attitudes toward risky sexual behaviors (AOR = 0.47; 95% CI = 0.26–0.83; p < 0.001), access to places of ill repute and access to sexual arousal stimuli (AOR = 1.44; 95% CI = 0.80–2.60; p < 0.001), social influence (AOR = 3.10; 95% CI = 1.63–5.90; p < 0.001), and the application of sexual health information (AOR = 5.71; 95% CI = 2.84–11.50; p value < 0.001).
Conclusion
The findings will be useful for preventing risky sexual behaviors among undergraduate students and encouraging students to practice healthy sexual behaviors by adapting and modifying sexual behaviors to reduce various consequences.
Enhancing evidence-based practice in health professions education: evaluation of an applied curriculum intervention
Authors: Michele Laura Di , Thomson Kate , Bell Amani , Reed Warren 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

It is imperative that health professions graduates are taught to effectively apply evidence-based practice (EBP) in their clinical careers. Teaching the concept is challenging, as it requires educators to embed and scaffold knowledge and skills across the EBP cycle throughout both academic and clinical curricula. The objective of this study was to evaluate an overarching curriculum level intervention that aimed to enhance students’ knowledge, skills, attitudes and practices towards EBP. This is referred to as the Evidence-Based Practice – Applied Educational Intervention (EBP-AEI). The study employed a mixed methods convergent parallel design. Focus groups were used to explore students’ experiences of the intervention, and pre and post intervention surveys were used to assess students’ knowledge, skills, practices, and attitudes towards EBP. Twelve students participated across two focus groups. Three themes were defined during analysis: 1. knowledge and skills, 2. it’s all about pedagogy!, and 3. clinical implementation on placement. Twenty-three students completed the pre-intervention survey and eighteen completed the post. While the survey results were not statistically significant (potentially due to insufficient power), data from the focus groups suggests that EBP knowledge and skills were acquired by students during the intervention. Attitudes of students towards EBP dropped, likely due to challenges the students experienced during both the academic and clinical aspects of the intervention. Developing strong curricula is vital to ensure that health professions graduates are able to implement EBP in clinical settings.
TCoCPIn: Unveiling Topological Characteristics of Chemical-Protein Interaction Networks for Discovering Novel Features in Interactions
Authors: WANG Jianshi , OHSAWA Yukio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The complexity of drug mechanisms of action, disease pathology, and protein function stems from the intricacies of chemical-protein interaction (CPI) networks. However, the lack of innovative analytical methods has hindered our ability to decipher the organization and function of CPI networks. To this end, we propose a new method, TCoCPIn, to reveal hidden patterns and relationships in CPI networks by applying topological features. By combining network topology with CPI data, TCoCPIn is able to discover new features in interactions, thereby facilitating the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Through comprehensive analysis of specific datasets, we demonstrate the effectiveness of TCoCPIn in revealing small-world properties, key nodes, and communities in CPI networks, which may be associated with drug efficacy or toxicity. Our pioneering approach highlights the potential of topological analysis to elucidate the organization and function of CPI networks, thereby advancing drug discovery and improving our understanding of disease mechanisms.
Trend Analysis of Climatic Parameters Using Geographical Information Systems: A Case Study of Sivas Province (1982-2021)
Authors: YILMAZ Zinnur , BİRDAL Anıl Can 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Climate change has become a significant concern globally, and understanding regional patterns and trends is crucial for effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. This article presents a comprehensive Mann-Kendall trend and Sen’s slope estimator test conducted to examine the long-term trends in surface temperature, 2-meter above temperature, and precipitation in Sivas Province, Turkey. Utilizing a dataset spanning several decades, Mann-Kendall and Sen’s slope estimator tests were applied to assess the presence of statistically significant trends in the selected climatic parameters. Additionally, Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) were incorporated as supplementary and validation data sources to enhance the accuracy and reliability of our analysis. Furthermore, GIS techniques facilitated the integration of diverse geospatial data layers, including land cover, offering valuable insights into the complex interactions between climate variables and the environment. The combined analysis of MK trends, SS test and RS/GIS data yielded a robust understanding of the changing climate dynamics in Sivas Province. Our findings not only contribute to the growing body of knowledge on regional climate change but also underscore the importance of utilizing advanced technologies like RS and GIS for accurate trend analysis and informed decision-making. This study highlights the potential of these supplementary data sources in enhancing our understanding of climate trends and supports the development of climate change adaptation strategies.
Use of CoNi-ZIF-derived Bimetallic-Doped Nitrogen-Rich Porous Carbon (CoNi-NC) Composite Bi 2 S 3 in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhao Zhifeng , Feng Wangjun , Niu Yueping , Hu Wenting , Su Wenxiao , Zheng Xiaoping , Zhang Li 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Lithium-sulfur batteries have not been widely commercialized due to issues with poor conductivity of the active material and the shuttle effect, both of which are effectively addressed in this study. The porous carbon CoNi-NC, derived from high-temperature carbonization of the cobalt-nickel metal-organic framework CoNi-ZIF, was utilized as the carbon substrate. It exhibits excellent specific surface area and a well-developed pore structure, thereby optimizing the conductivity and sulfur-loading capacity of the material. The incorporation of polar Bi2S3 effectively adsorbs polysulfides, retards the shuttle effect, and enhances the reaction kinetics of lithium-sulfur batteries. Electrochemical tests revealed that the CoNi-NC@Bi2S3 electrode achieved a specific discharge capacity of 1107 mAh/g at a current density of 0.1 C, demonstrating excellent rate capability. Moreover, the cathode material maintained a specific discharge capacity of 796.5 mAh/g after 200 cycles at 0.2 C, indicating robust cycling stability.
The Relationship between Globalization, Energy Consumption, and Economic Growth in Selected South Asian Countries
Authors: Das Apu Chandra 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This study analyzes the relationship between globalization, energy consumption, and economic growth among selected South Asian countries. This study also finds causal association between energy growth and nexus of CO2 emissions, and employed the premises of the EKC framework. The study used annual time series analysis, starting from 1972 to 2017. The data set has been collected from the world development indicator (WDI). The result of a fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) method describes a significantly worsen the quality environment in the south Asian region. The individual country as Bangladesh shows a positively significant impact on the CO2 emissions and destroying the level of environment regarding non-renewable energy and globalization index. However, negative and positive growth level (GDP) and square of GDP confirm the EKC hypothesis in this region. This study has identified the causality between GDP growth and carbon emission and found bidirectional causality between economic growth and energy use.
Excitation of Laguerre-Gaussian and geometric modes in a dye laser
Authors: Burdukova Olga , Petukhov Vladimir , Semenov Mikhail , Senatsky Yury 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Investigations of structured laser beams formation are one of the attractive areas of laser research in recent years. Compared to solid-state lasers, dye lasers were rarely in demand in these studies. Here we present several transverse mode selection experiments in a pulsed Rhodamine 6G dye laser (λ = 580 nm) with a plano-spherical resonator under hollow beam pumping by 20 ns pulses of 532 nm radiation from the Nd:YAG laser 2-nd harmonic. Along with high-order vortex and petal Laguerre-Gaussian modes, a whole family of non-planar geometric modes of different structures was obtained at the frequency degenerate states of this dye laser resonator. The ensemble of geometric modes in the related degenerate resonator configurations is illustrated by fractal frequency spectrum calculations. The experiments performed show that a dye laser represents a fairly simple and convenient object for testing various mode selection techniques. Dye lasers operating in the visible and near-infrared spectral regions can complement the range of solid-state laser sources currently used for obtaining and studying structured laser beams, which have many applications in scientific research and applied problems.
Smart Blood Pump Platform For Controlling Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Glomp Gabriella , Cortelli Michael , Bernicker Briana , Bacchetta Matthew , Ukita Rei 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Clinical blood pump consoles for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are poorlyaccessible to researchers due to their high cost. Furthermore, clinical machines are built and designed at a high level of information security, which limits their integration with third-party machines and software. These barriers hinder researchers from customizing blood pump consoles for their investigational needs, limiting innovations and advancements in the areas of blood pump automation and pulsation. To address these needs, we present on a programmable Smart Blood Pump console. This console can be assembled for under $200 and uses open-source tools including Arduino. Using this console, centrifugal blood pump heads can be operated at clinically relevant levels of flow and pressure needed in extracorporeal life support applications (>250 mmHg pressure head, > 4 L/min of blood flow). Additionally, the programmable nature allows for utility beyond the standard indications of clinical extracorporeal blood pumps, including pulsatility and servo control. For future directions, this console will be further developed to accommodate a wider range of clinical pump heads. We envision that this will be an affordable, accessible platform to suit the varying needs of engineers and researchers for fostering innovations in ECMO technology.
Banking Stability in the ESG Framework Across Italian Regions
Authors: Arnone Massimo , Leogrande Angelo , Costantiello Alberto , Laureti Lucio 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This work aims to initiate a reflection on the awareness of environmental, social, and corporate governance issues, summarized in the acronym ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance), among Italian SMEs. The integration of ESG issues into business models has led to an expansion of the risk taxonomy affecting corporate management. In addition to traditional financial risks, new risks have emerged, primarily climate risk, environmental, and energy risks, which can significantly impact companies' ability to create economic value. This includes planning and designing virtuous initiatives focused on sustainability and the ability to build public-private partnerships with various stakeholders. After this theoretical framework aimed at highlighting the evolution of the concept of corporate sustainability following the introduction of ESG factors, a clustering of non-performing loans of Italian companies is proposed using a k-Means algorithm, comparing the results obtained through two different methods, namely the Elbow method and the Silhouette coefficient. Finally, using data on Italian regions between 2004 and 2023, an empirical analysis is conducted to provide an estimate of the relationship between non-performing loans and some variables related to ESG components.
JEL CODES: G1, G10, G11, G12, G13, G14, G15.
Pathway-specific emissions and dissolved CH­4 pool in the soil across 22 rice varieties
Authors: Kajiura Masako , Saito Takeru , Nishiwaki Junko , Tokida Takeshi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Methane (CH4) produced in rice paddy soil is transported to the atmosphere mostly via the rice plants or by bubbling events (ebullition) with the former believed to be the dominant pathway. However, recent studies have shown that ebullitions occurred more significantly than previously thought in a rice field planted with the popular Japanese inbred variety ‘Koshihikari’. It remains unclear if the substantial contribution of ebullition is unique to this specific variety, as no previous reports have compared plant-derived and bubbling flux separately among various varieties. Therefore, we planted 22 genetically diverse rice varieties and measured plant-mediated and bubbling fluxes at three different growth stages. The results showed that plant-mediated and bubbling fluxes, as well as the bubbling contribution to total flux, differed among the varieties. Koshihikari ehxibited plant-mediated flux similar to or less than the other varieties at all measurement stages, whereas the bubbling flux and its contribution to total flux were larger, especially at the later stage. Plant-mediated flux showed no correlation to the dissolved CH4 concentration in soil water at the later stage, suggesting that factors controlling CH4 transport, rather than the pool size of CH4 in the soil, control this pathway. On the other hand, the increase in bubbling flux associated with plant maturity and its close correspondence with dissolved CH4 concentration indicated that bubbling flux was controlled by the size of CH4 pool in the soil, which likely increased with senescence and decay of rice roots. A low correspondence between panicle weight and CH4 emissions points to the potential for breeding ideal rice varieties that are high- yielding with low CH4 emissions.
Factors of Korean Road Accidents from Insurance Records
Authors: 조(Cho) 성균(Seongkyun) 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Korean transport safety has shown behavioral patterns including relatively more vulnerable to the pedestrian compared to other OECD countries. This research aims to reveal more specific factors of such Korean Road Accidents patterns in terms of the injury severity. This research analyzed 3,370 empirical insurance records, which the Korean government had gathered from 2008 to 2012, through Generalized Ordered Logit Regression model. More than 140 independent variables include collision types, traffic rule violations, road structures, vehicle types, and other socio-economic factors. This research observes more fragile vehicle types, such as a pedestrian, of the party less negligence, increased the log-odds intriguingly to be in a higher level of injury severity while a more massive vehicle with less accountability decreases the log-odds. This research also proves that traditional right-angled crossroads, speed bumps on curved roads, and junctions between auto roads and sidewalks are problematic in Korean road safety. Social behaviors such as the party’s not having driving licenses or insurances tended to augment the log-odds. Based on these findings, this research suggests policy recommendations including lowering speed limits in the residential areas, enlarging the application of the international pedestrian protection safety standards, enforcing the relevant regulations and training, and so on.
Review of the concentration procedures used to determine the parasitological water quality in Latin America (2000–2022)
Authors: Falcone Andrea Celina , Sanguino-Jorquera Diego Gastón , Unzaga Juan Manuel 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

The aim was to review the methodologies used in the concentration of intestinal parasites in different water samples in Latin America. The period of the review was between September and November 2022. Of the total number of articles (N = 87), the search engine with the most articles matching the specified keywords was Google Scholar (56.3% = 49 articles), and Brazil was the country that published the most articles (28.7%). Most of the studies were conducted for surface waters (75.9%) and used methodologies with physical separation without subsequent parasitological concentration (76.9%). However, the ultrafiltration method (UFM) with subsequent parasitological concentration recovered a greater number and type of parasite species. The descriptive study of the review shows that the procedure of using UFM with a parasitological method of flotation and sedimentation would allow an efficient concentration of the parasite species present in the water sample.
Een shell midden in Swifterkamp? Verslag van een archeologisch experiment
Authors: Kleijne Jos , Kamstra Hester , Van Ens Steven 
Published: July 2024

A shell midden in Swifterkamp? Report of an archaeological experiment. In 2021, we conducted an experiment into shell midden formation processes. We boiled and roasted shellfish, created a midden, and trampled specific parts of it. This report describes the choices we made in the process, the materials we used, the unexpected first results, and some further considerations. We will not delve deeper into the scientific nature of the endeavour, as the micromorphological work is still ongoing.