bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Leveraging Environmental Responsibility and Managerial Decision-Making for Enhanced Firm Performance: The Mediating Role of Green Culture
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Arshad Imran 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This study aims to analyze the direct and indirect relationship between environmental responsibility (ER), managerial decision-making (MDM), green culture (GRC), and firm performance (FPR). Additionally, institutional theory has been applied to hypothesis development. Furthermore, this research data was obtained from Chinese manufacturing firms which are listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. The study is quantitative, and a simple random sampling technique was employed during data collection, where data came from 390 managers working in leather manufacturing firms. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM 4) statistical package is unaliased for hypotheses testing. The study results demonstrate that ER, MDM and GRC have positively and significantly correlated with FRP. While GRC is partially mediated by ER, MDM and FPR. The overall results indicate that ER, MDM, and GRC are cornerstones for improving the performance of manufacturing firms. The findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge and have implications for potential policymakers and managers within Chinese manufacturing firms.
Blockade of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by Astragaloside IV attenuates ulcerative colitis via improving the intestinal epithelial barrier
Authors: Zhang Xinhui , Jiang Xun , Xue Xiaochang , Zhang Fan , Li Yan , Fan Na , Zhao Ke , Zhang Anding , Kang Jiefang , Lin Yan 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
As a chronic inflammatory disease with recurrent symptoms, ulcerative colitis (UC) is severely threatening human health worldwide with a high prevalence. Intestinal mucosal barriers stand the first line to maintain the balance between food metabolism, nutrient absorption, and pathogen attacks. Although various signaling pathways have been found to be associated with intestinal barrier regulation, whether and how PI3K/AKT pathway is involved in gut mucosal barrier function modulation is still largely unknown.
Methods
The intestinal tissues from UC patients and colitis mice were collected and mucosal barrier function was measured by colonoscopy and electron microscopy observation, and immunofluorescence staining. PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activator YS-49 and inhibitor LY-29 were administered to colitic mice to uncover the effect of this pathway on gut mucosal barrier modulation. Then, network pharmacology was used to screen the specific PI3K/AKT inhibitor Astragaloside IV (AS-IV). The potential of AS-IV for intestinal barrier function repairment and UC treatment through blockade of PI3K/AKT pathway was further confirmed by histopathological staining, transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, western blotting, and qRT-PCR. Finally, 16S rDNA sequencing was performed to uncover whether AS-IV can also ameliorate UC by regulating gut microbiota homeostasis.
Results
Mucosal barrier function was significantly damaged in UC patients and murine colitis and activated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was extensively involved in it, as PI3K/AKT activator YS-49 apparently aggravated, whereas inhibitor LY-29 remarkably attenuated intestinal mucosal permeability of the colitic mice. AS-IV was found to be a specific PI3K/AKT inhibitor which greatly improved DSS-induced murine colitis via maintaining the intestinal crypt, microvilli, and desmosome structures in an orderly arrangement and improving intestinal epithelial permeability with the upregulation of tight junction proteins. Consistently, AS-IV protected Caco2 cells from LPS-induced damage by improving cell viability, inhibiting inflammation, and increasing the expression of tight junction proteins. In addition, microbiomics data found that gut microbiota, which also play critical roles in intestinal barrier disruption, participates in AS-IV–mediated intestinal barrier recovery as well.
Conclusions
PI3K/AKT is a promising target for UC treatment and AS-IV is a potential candidate to be developed for opening new avenues for rational pharmacological targeting of PI3K/AKT-associated diseases.
PubChem CID: Chemical compounds studied in this article: Astragaloside IV (PubChem CID: 13943297); Kaempferol (PubChem CID: 5280863); Formononetin (PubChem CID: 5280378)
PDB ID: AKT1(PDB ID: 7NH5)
Larval biomass production from the co-digestion of mushroom root waste and soybean curd residues by black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens L.)
Authors: Soomro Abdul Aziz , Rehman Kashif ur , Cai Minmin , Laghari Zubair Ahmed , Zheng Longyu , Yu Ziniu , Zhang Jibin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) are progressively being used as a sustainable waste management solution. They are high in protein and other essential nutrients, making them an ideal food source for livestock, poultry, and fish. Pure mushroom root waste (MRW) has been shown in the past to have a poor conversion efficiency, taking much more time than regular artificial diet in prior laboratory studies. Therefore, the nutrient rich soybean curd residues (SCR) was mixed with MRW, the combination of SCR and MRW increased the diversity of the gut microbiota, which was favorable for the development and growth of the larvae. As compared to all of the other feed combination groups, the longest developing period of BSFL in (M1) pure MRW was 31.1 days. When compared to the M1 and M7 groups, the mixture groups achieved the highest reductions in dry mass (49.7%), bioconversion rate (5.9%), protein content (46.0%) and lipid content (25.2%). Based on the different performance parameters of different mixtures of MRW and SCR, Lipid and protein content and FCR in BSFL were the essential parameters to evaluate the conversion efficiency of BSFL. SEM pictures and FT-IR spectra indicated that the group M4 MRW structures altered to hollow and fiber excision, which improved the co-conversion mixture. BSFL (M4) can co-convert fiber rich MRW with SCR.
The Dual Roles of Lamin A/C in Mechanosensation to Compressive Force
Authors: Groeger Sabine , Wang Yao , Ruf Sabine , Wang Lei 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Cellular mechanosensation is a complex physiological process coupling alterations in the external environment and cellular behaviors. Over the past decade, the role of the nucleus in mechanosensation has gained increasing attention. Our research found that lamin A/C, a component of the nuclear envelope, plays a dual role in the mechanosensation of macrophages in response to compressive force. Our findings indicated that hydrostatic compressive force downregulated lamin A/C protein via the cytoskeleton. Consequently, this lamin A/C deficiency enhanced compressive-force-induced inflammatory cytokines secretion and proliferative impairment. Unexpectedly, lamin A deficiency also inhibits compressive force-induced DNA damage and interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) up-regulation. Our findings suggest that lamin A/C is involved in multiple mechanosensation mechanisms. Mechanistically, lamin A/C deficiency augments nuclear permeability, facilitates the activation of yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) and promotes force-induced nuclear translocation of YAP1. These mechanisms have been validated to favor mechanosensation. Conversely, we also found that lamin A/C deficiency led to detachment of components of linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, which impeded intracellular mechanotransmission. In summary, lamin A/C can promote some responses of macrophages to mechanical compression but inhibits others. It is involved in two distinct mechanisms: enhancing nuclear permeability to transcription factors and impairing mechanotransmission by disrupting the LINC complex's connection to the nucleus.
Cross-talk of EGF and IGF-1 signaling promotes EMT gene expression: Implications for morphology and proliferation in breast cancer cells
Authors: Saleem Sahar , Mehraj Insha , Saleem Afnan Saleem , Mehraj Umar , Wani Nissar A. , Shaikh Fayaz A. , Attia Sabry M , Mir Manzoor Ahmad , Ahmad Syed Mudasir Ahmad Mudasir 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is a significant cause of mortality associated with cancer, presenting a substantial risk to women's health and overall welfare on a global scale. Despite notable progress in BC treatment, the prognosis for metastatic BC remains unfavorable, ultimately leading to fatality. To develop advanced therapeutic approaches, it is imperative to have a comprehensive comprehension of the underlying process responsible for the systemic dispersion of cancer cells. Numerous experimental findings indicate that an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is essential in the intricate progression of metastasis formation. EMT is a crucial initial stage observed in certain highly aggressive malignancies, such as breast cancer, facilitating the processes of invasion and metastasis. The current study assessed the impact of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) on breast cell lines, specifically MDA-MB-468, MDA-MB-231, and MCF10A. The experimental techniques employed in this study were qPCR, western blotting, and subsequent investigation of gene-gene interactions. Cell migration and proliferation assays were also conducted to investigate the following impacts of EGF and IGF-1 on breast cells. A study revealed that IGF-1 can augment EMT induced by EGF. Furthermore, it was observed that the expression levels of EMT-inducing transcription factors, namely snail, slug, zeb1, and zeb2, were increased in breast cells that were treated with EGF or IGF-1. Furthermore, it was observed that the stimulation of cell proliferation in metastatic BC cell lines is significantly enhanced upon administration of EGF and IGF-1. Notably, the observed augmentation in cellular proliferation was not discernible in non-malignant breast cells. Additionally, it was revealed that the morphology of BC cell lines undergoes alterations upon exposure to EGF and IGF-1. In contrast, it has been observed that the shape of normal BC stays unaltered, suggesting that the stimulation of EMT in breast tumor cells is induced explicitly by growth factors such as EGF and IGF-1. These research findings indicate that incorporating EGFR/IGF-R signaling as a potential therapeutic target, in conjunction with conventional treatment methods, exhibits substantial potential in attenuating tumor growth and progression, prolonging the overall survival rates of cancer patients.
Comparing Pixelated and Slat-Based Monolithic Tapered MicroPET Scanners in Single-Layer and Phoswich Configurations
Authors: Sadremomtaz Alireza , Taherparvar Payvand , saber Mohadeseh 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
As technology advances, there is a growing demand for enhancing the performance of small animal PET scanners. In pursuit of this objective, innovative designs, including tapered pixelated and pseudo-monolithic configurations, have been introduced. This research explores and compares tapered pixelated microPET systems and tapered pseudo-monolithic systems, both in single-layer and phoswich configurations. The pseudo-monolithic detectors were simulated with different slat sizes and orientations, along y and z direction. The focus was on critical parameters, including sensitivity, noise equivalent count rate, scatter fraction, and energy resolution, to assess these systems. The findings emphasize the advantages of phoswich systems in respect to their single-layer counterparts. For pseudo-monolithic systems, while the configuration with slats oriented in the z-direction demonstrate substantial improvements in system performance, the alternative pseudo-monolithic design with slats oriented in the y-direction yielded lower performance, indicating that the orientation of slats in pseudo-monolithic scanners can notably impact system performance.
Research on the Mechanical Properties of Ceramic Aggregate Concrete Based on Fiber Reinforcement
Authors: Hu Zhongzhi , Fan Le , Zhang Zhicheng , Yuan Ji , He Haijie , Lin Hongjian , Yu Jing , Lin Wei , Liu Junding , Wang Ruixin , Yu Kaisheng , Yang Keyue 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
To improve the toughness and enhance the strength of ceramsite concrete, this study employs three types of fibers to reinforce its performance. Four types of ceramsite concrete specimens were prepared and their static strength characteristics were tested. Based on the test results, the performance characterization parameters were calculated, and the failure modes were analyzed. In conjunction with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) experiments, the mechanical results were interpreted.The research results indicate that High toughness polypropylene(HTPP) fibers and steel fibers significantly enhance both the strength and toughness of ceramsite concrete, with steel fibers exhibiting a larger improvement. Carbon fibers can increase the strength of ceramsite concrete, but it do not enhance its toughness. When the fiber volume fraction is 0.6% for both HTPP fibers and steel fibers in ceramsite concrete, the strength increased by 25.8% and 54%, respectively, the strength-to-weight ratio improved by 22.5%-46.5%, and the toughness index Wcu0.85 increased by 11.8% and 45.7%, respectively. Besides,the concrete exhibited a ductile failure mode in both cases. Based on the SEM test results, the mechanisms through which the three types of fibers enhance ceramsite concrete are explained from the perspective of fiber surface characteristics. The research findings of this study can provide a theoretical foundation for the optimization design of such concrete and hold significant importance for the application of ceramsite concrete as a structural material.
The interpretation of science-based targets for cities - Validating Deadline 2020, One Planet City Challenge, and Tyndall Local Carbon Budget Tool
Authors: Schwanitz Valeria Jana , Wierling August , Paudler Heather Arghandeh , Getabecha Melake , Currás Tabaré Arroyo , Lovell Arminel , Green Ryan , Kuriakose Jaise , Jones Christopher , Mackay Beth , Staden Maryke van , du Pont Yann Robiou , Deacon Andy , Jance Benjamin , Astolfo Juan Pablo , Cassanmagnago Davide 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
We scrutinize widely-used, distinct methods to set city-level climate goals: Deadline 2020, One Planet City Challenge, and Tyndall Local Carbon Budget Tool. Through meticulous verification and validation of data input, calculation processes, and documentation, the exercise assesses whether the methods are fit-for-purpose. Our results establish confidence in all methods but given limitations and high uncertainties involved around emission target setting, we conclude that reduction goals should be understood as reference points for targeting the highest level of ambitious action on the ground. We stress the precautionary principle, particularly in cities of the Global South, so that climate actions remain well-grounded, considering each city's capacity and influence. This overdue exercise emphasizes the need for transparent and multi-faceted methods, adaptable to different city contexts, to ensure continued effectiveness in guiding city-level climate action around the globe. We propose recommendations that emphasize multi-level governance and prioritize action through a more nuanced approach to evaluating and enhancing city climate targets.
WITHDRAWN: Novel Low-Salinity Water flooding by Hybrid of Nano γ- Al 2 O 3 /SiO 2 Modified with a Green Surfactant for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: kulaki Azin Khajeh , Hosseini-Nasab Seyed Mojtaba , Hormozi Faramarz 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In this paper, a novel Hybrid Enhanced Oil Recovery (HEOR) method that formulates a Low Salinity Water Flooding (LSWF) and NanoParticles (NPs) stabilized with a green surfactant is introduced. For this goal, we experimentally investigated using combination of silica (SiO2) and gamma alumina (γ-Al2O3) nanohybrids stabilized with gum arabic into different water salinities. Nanofluids were prepared by dispersing γ-Al2O3 and SiO2 NPs 0.1 wt% in Deionized Water (DW), Synthetic SeaWater (SSW), and 2, 5, and 10 times Diluted Samples of Synthetic Seawater (in short 2-DSSW, 5-DSSW and 10-DSSW). The challenge is that NPs become unstable in the presence of cations in saline water. To address the challenge of instability of NPs, the physical surface modification method was applied by adding a green surfactant. Moreover, an attempt was made to introduce nanofluids with high stability for a long period of time as the optimal nanofluids. The optimization of nanofluids was done to prevent formation damage due to the accumulation of NPs around the injection wells. According to the micromodel flooding results, in an oil-wet condition, combination of hybrid nanofluid γ-Al2O3/SiO2 with a mass fraction of 10:90 dispersed in 2 times diluted brine showed the highest displacement efficiency compared to other nanofluids prepared with high stability.
You Touch , I Bleed-a Case of AV Malformation
Authors: M NIKHIL RAJ H , ST KAVYA , RAJANNA AVINASH HANNABE , M SHREERAGHAVI U 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Arteriovenous malformations are congenital vascular malformations resulting from birth defects of the vasculature. They account for 1.5% of all vascular anomalies, and 50% of the lesions are located in the oral and maxillofacial region1. Regardless of the type, malformations may lead to significant anatomical, pathophysiological and hemodynamic consequences. Therefore, despite their rarity, AV malformations still remain the most life-threatening form of vascular anomalies.
The present case describes the diagnosis of high flow AV malformation in a patient who had repeated hospital admissions for anemia secondary to bleeding from oral cavity with multiple blood transfusions. The case is unique because the cause for recurrent oral bleeding was undiagnosed and through thorough history, examination, investigations, high flow arteriovenous malformation was diagnosed and managed appropriately.
Prognostic effects of arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide in critical patients with acute heart failure: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Xiao Wei , Mei Quanhui , Zhao Guohui 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background: The association of the arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) with poor outcomes in acute heart failure (AHF) patients has been observed. Nevertheless, the existing studies are controversial and limited by small sample sizes. We assessed whether PaCO2 is associated with intensive care unit (ICU) 60-day mortality in AHF patients.
Methods: We extracted and analyzed data from a quality public database, the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database. We used a smooth curve fitting method to assess a potential curvilinear relationship. Multivariate regression analyses incorporating a two-stage linear regression model were used to investigate the associations of PaCO2 with prognosis.
Results: Overall, 4,271 participants were included, comprising 825 ICU 60-day non-survivors and 3,446 ICU 60-day survivors. Smooth curve fitting revealed a U-shaped relationship between PaCO2 and prognosis, with an inflection point of PaCO2 at 37 mmHg that was used to establish a two-stage linear regression model. When PaCO2 was <37 mmHg, the multivariate regression analysis showed that for every 5-mmHg increase in the PaCO2, the ICU 60-day mortality decreased by 16% (p=0.0274). There was no significant association between PaCO2 and ICU 60-day mortality (p=0.4685) when PaCO2 was ≥37 mmHg.
Conclusions: These findings suggest that low PaCO2, but not high PaCO2, at ICU admission might help determine the short-term prognosis in critically AHF patients.
Correlation of Sonographic With Intraoperative Findings in Laparoscopic Managed Ectopic Pregnancies. A 10-year Synopsis. A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Mutiso Steve 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background:
Ectopic pregnancies (EP) are a common pregnancy complication that’s associated with significant morbidity and rarely mortality if not managed properly. Ultrasound examination forms the cornerstone of diagnosis of EP with some sonographic features occasionally not correlating with intraoperative findings. We set out to conduct an audit of EP managed surgically at our hospital for a 10-year period and discern the correlation and prediction of sonographic findings to intraoperative findings.
Methods:
This study was designed as a Retrospective Clinical Audit based at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH). Study population was all women admitted to AKUH with a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy that was surgically managed between the period of January 1st 2011 to December 31st 2020. Analysis of data was done against a pre-set checklist. Descriptive statistics for continuous variables was calculated and tabulated in graphs and tables. SPSS version 22 was used for analysis of data.
Results:
A total of 337 patients in this study had ultrasound findings. 99.7% (n = 336) of these patients had an intraoperatively confirmed EP. The commonest ultrasound finding was an adnexal mass in 97.1% (n = 309) of patients. These were confirmed surgically in 290 patients at the following locations: 76.6% (n = 222) were ampullary in location; 10.7% (n = 31) were fimbrial in location; 8.6%(n = 25) were isthmic in location; 2.4%(n = 7) were interstitial in location; 1%(n = 3) were abdominal in location; while 0.3% were located in the ovary(n = 1) or round ligament(n = 1) each. Interstitial EP on ultrasound were all (100%) confirmed in the same location intraoperatively, with ampullary EP also correlating fairly well with intraoperative location (75%). The distribution of location in the minor hemoperitoneum (HP) versus major HP groups were similar except for interstitial EP that increased from 1.4% in the minor HP group to 9.5% in the major HP group.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, ultrasonography still represents the best imaging modality for EP. The most common finding is usually an adnexal mass with no specific location. Most (99.7%) of the patients with this sonographic finding usually have a confirmed EP. Interstitial EP are the most well localized with ultrasound followed by ampullary EP. Furthermore, the presence of major (> 500mls) hemoperitoneum may act as an adjunct for diagnosis of an interstitial EP.
A numerical model for precursory time sequences of the phreatic eruptions of Mt. Ontake, central Japan
Authors: Maeda Yuta 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The 2014 phreatic eruption of Mt. Ontake was preceded by increased volcano-tectonic (VT) seismicity, but all other types of precursors were obscure. A subsurface process leading to eruption with few precursors has yet to be identified. This study performed numerical simulations to reproduce the precursory time sequence of the eruption. High-temperature water from a cooling magma reservoir was injected into a modeled porous medium filled with cold water. This resulted in an immediate pressure increase and a delayed temperature increase in the shallow parts. The pressure increased immediately because the injected fluid pushed the existing fluid away from the porous medium. A sharp boundary between low (initial)- and high (injected)-temperature regions, known as a thermal front, developed and migrated upward slowly, leading to a delayed temperature increase. The lag time between the pressure and temperature changes is likely responsible for the precursory VT seismicity. If the injected water temperature was less than the critical point, the water was liquid throughout the model region until the thermal front reached a shallow part, where the pressure was low enough for the heated water to vaporize. This vaporization was sudden and large, likely leading to a large eruption with few precursors, similar to the time sequence in 2014. If the injected water temperature was higher, the water volume increased gradually from liquid to supercritical and then to the gas state. This scenario likely led to a small eruption with numerous precursors, similar to the previous eruption of Mt. Ontake that occurred in 2007.