Abstract:Serine hydroxymethyltransferase2 (SHMT2, GenBank: AAH32584.1) is a key metabolic enzyme that biosynthesizes glycine from serine. This reaction represents a major source of methyl groups for the one-carbon pools required for nucleotide biosynthesis and DNA methylation. SHMT2 overexpression is a biomarker observed in various cancers, including breast cancer, melanoma, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer, and is associated with tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Using the information that the polybasic amino acid motif of STIM1(stromal interaction molecule 1 precursor) is able to bind with its partner proteins via two acidic amino acids (Asp-Asp; DD), we recognized that SHMT2 also contains the short acidic binding motif [429DD430] in its C-terminus. Thus, we pursued the protein-protein interaction and its biological significance with co-immunoprecipitation and confocal co-localization experiments. Moreover, we demonstrated that the protein-protein interaction between STIM1 and SHMT2 contributes to Ca2+ ion release from ER for the cell malignance with the image tool. Here, our findings provide the evidence why SHMT2 overexpression enhances cytoplasmic Ca2+ ion concentration by releasing Ca2+ ion from SOCE (store-operated Ca2+ entry). Furthermore, SHMT2 helps to release cytoplasmic Ca2+ from SOCE after SHMT2 overexpression in the transformed cells. Therefore, our observations suggest a novel mechanism of STIM1 regulation through protein-protein interaction with SHMT2 to promote the cell transformation and clarify one of its roles as STIM1 modulation through SHMT2 [429DD430] binding to STIM1 [671RKKFPLKIFKKPLKK685].
Abstract:This paper deals with the geospatial suitability analysis of organic farming in the Garhwal Himalaya, India, using the AHP method in association with Geographic Information Systems. Organic farming is very important for the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices in mountainous regions where topographical as well as environmental factors play an important role in land suitability. It makes use of multiple criteria: Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), Topographic Ruggedness Index (TRI), Topographic Positioning Index (TPI), slope, flow direction, flow accumulation, aspect, hillshade, curvature, and tan slope. A pairwise comparison matrix was formulated using AHP to assign weights for these parameters based on their relative importance in determining land suitability for organic farming. With the integration of such weighted factors by the GIS tools, it has given scope for developing a detailed suitability map over the land areas, which identified very-low, low, moderate, high, and very-high suitability areas for organic farming. Therefore, the results show that the spatial variability of the suitability of land is a large factor in the Garhwal Himalaya, developed by the complicated interaction between topographic and hydrological factors. High scoring districts include Chamoli and Rudraprayag, while low scores were reported in regions located in Tehri Garhwal and Pauri Garhwal, mainly due to steeper slopes and rough topography. The research output is really important for policymakers and local farmers in order to expand organic farming in ecologically sustainable areas. The methodology adopted offers a replicable framework for land suitability assessment in the other mountainous regions of the world, and it contributes to the larger discourse on sustainable agricultural development.
Abstract:Background: While there is ample evidence on the effects of Nordic hamstring training (NHT) on physical fitness in youth athletes, less is known about the effectiveness of different volumes of this type of training. Accordingly, this study aimed to examine the effects of 8 weeks of low-volume Nordic hamstring training (LNHT) performed during the warm-up, on sprints (5, 10, and 20-m) and change of direction (CoD) with (15-m CoD Ball) and without (15-m without Ball) the ball in young male soccer players in highly trained male youth soccer players. Methods: Twenty-eight male youth soccer players, aged 13 to 14 years, were randomly assigned to LNHT (n= 14) or a control group (CON, n= 14). The eight-week NMT included low Nordic exercises with 3 sets of 4 repetitions. The CG performed a soccer-specific warm-up. Training was performed during the warm-up with similar training volumes between groups. Pre-, and post-training, tests were conducted to assess sprint (5, 10, and 20-m) and change of direction (CoD) with (15-m CoD Ball) and without (15-m without Ball) the ball. Results: Findings showed significant group-by-time interactions for all 5 (F1,26=.77, P =.38, Pη2 =.029), 10 (F1,26=2.7, P =.11, Pη2 =.095) and 20-m sprint (F1,26=14.9, P =.001, Pη2 =.364) and CoD with (F1,26=12.9, P =.001, Pη2 =.332) and without the ball (F1,26=24.1, P =.001, Pη2 =.481) tests. There were significant pre-post changes for all tested variables (all P<0.005) in favor of LNHT but not CG. Conclusions: In conclusion, LNHT was a mean tool for improving CoD speed and sprint performance. Due to the importance of CoD and short accelerations for overall competitive performance in soccer, our results suggest that young players should perform LNHT as part of their warm-up soccer training if the goal is to improve sprint and CoD performance.
Abstract:Taiwan`s Mazu culture originated from the belief of Chinese immigrants in Mazu, the goddess of the sea. Passed down through religious traditions and inspired by this culture, Mazu pilgrimage celebrations are held in various regions. Among these, the Mazu procession in March has become the most iconic ceremony, with Dajia Zhenlan Temple serving as a benchmark. The grand Mazu procession held every March has grown into one of the world's three major religious events, recognized for its well-planned route and vast number of participants. In 2009, it was designated a World Intangible Cultural Heritage by the United Nations. This annual nine days and eight nights cross-county and cross-city procession not only generates significant tourism and economic benefits but also symbolizes the maritime cultural heritage passed down through generations of immigrants. In this context, Zhenlan Temple has carefully considered the future development of multi-religious processions. Dajia Zhenlan Temple hosts the Mazu procession every year. Effectively mobilizing organizational forces, planning the procession route, and managing the event as a whole have become very challenging tasks. Especially after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, the Dajia Mazu procession was successfully held with the support of government regulations, achieving a careful balance. This success was not only due to the faith and trust of the management team and pilgrims in Mazu, but also to the effective implementation of event management, which ensured the smooth completion of the entire procession. This study employs fieldwork methods and quantitative data, along with semi-structured interviews with relevant scholars, to explore how temples can effectively manage pilgrimage activities during the COVID-19 crisis. Additionally, by analyzing statistical samples from questionnaires, we examine the perspectives, backgrounds, and motivations of both devotees participating in the Dajia Mazu pilgrimage and tourists visiting the event. The aim is to understand the reasons and interactive relationships between devotees and tourists during the pandemic. Through this research, we also explore the core values of participants in the annual Mazu pilgrimage organized by Zhenlan Temple.
Abstract:This study reports on teachers` resource uptake in an intervention implemented in the first half of 2021. The intervention occurred in terms of providing isiZulu home language (HL) reading anthologies (RAs) and the Teacher`s guide to a sample of 100 quintiles 1-3 primary schools in the King Cetshwayo district in KwaZulu-Natal. This provision stems from limitations of reading resources in African HLs. Hence, this article aims to examine whether the provision of RAs impacted reading practices in the foundation phase (FP) classroom. A qualitative case study was used to gather data in six quintile 1 and 2 schools. Grade 3 reading lessons were observed in the six schools sampled. Data collected were analysed by using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that the provision of RAs has increased opportunities for the learners to read in their HL, isiZulu. However, teachers did not seem knowledgeable on how to conduct group guided reading activities using the RAs with learners. Based on these findings, although teachers did not seem to understand how to use the RAs according to the guidelines provided, it can be concluded that providing culturally and linguistically relevant resources in African languages is necessary. The findings in this study could advocate for the continuum provisioning of linguistically relevant resources in African languages, as this will not only promote reading interests in African HLs but also authorship and publications. The findings also highlighted the need for the FP teachers to be workshopped and guided effectively on using classroom resources according to their intended use.
Abstract:The Industrial Revolution created a significant demand for energy, primarily relying on non-renewable resources such as petroleum, natural gas, and coal. While these resources have driven human progress, they have also caused severe environmental issues, including ozone depletion, increased carbon emissions, deforestation, and geopolitical tensions. Addressing these challenges requires the development of stable and sustainable renewable energy sources. The commitment to reducing carbon emissions under the Paris Agreement reflects decades of global efforts to advance renewable energy. Despite advancements in solar and wind energy, their inherent intermittency and dependence on climate conditions limit their ability to fully replace traditional energy sources. Green hydrogen, known for its high energy density and carbon-neutral extraction process, is considered a promising, sustainable renewable energy source. Its production results in only water and heat. By analyzing various research literature on seawater electrolysis, this study statistically and graphically presents key factors, highlighting crucial trends in advancing seawater hydrogen production technology. This research provides important insights and directions for the future development of seawater hydrogen production. Highlight 1. This field primarily focuses on chemistry, and the lack of integration with experts in electricity or electromagnetism may affect the efficiency and stability of the electrolysis process. 2. Research related to seawater hydrogen production has been increasing year by year, indicating growing global attention in this field. 3. Break throughs are making hydrogen production cheaper, and the fast growth of hydrogen energy use is speeding up our progress toward net-zero carbon emissions. At the same time, it’s helping to ease energy crises caused by geopolitical issues.
Abstract:This article presents the findings of a suitability assessment for hydrocarbon reservoir analogues using pore imaging techniques on selected limestone samples. The study focuses on the Bewah Limestone in the eastern part of Peninsular Malaysia, which dates back to the Permian period. The Bewah Limestone is classified as a metasediment and consists of mudstone, dolomite, and crystallized limestone. Thin polished sections from ten limestone samples were analyzed, and these were successfully categorized as mudstone, wackestone, packstone, dolomite, and rudstone. The samples were then analyzed using ImageJ software to quantify porosity, with porosity levels determined by applying thresholds to grayscale images. Porosity results varied across the samples, ranging from poor to good, based on the hydrocarbon reservoir quality index. The highest recorded porosity was 20.24%, classified as good, while fair porosity ranged from 11.6% to 11.93%. Most samples exhibited poor porosity, ranging from 6.10% to 9.52%. Pore connectivity was assessed using different threshold levels to better understand fluid flow. The results suggest that the Bewah Limestone samples have the potential to store and trap hydrocarbon fluids, indicating their suitability as hydrocarbon reservoir analogues.
Abstract:This study investigates the effects of a structured CrossFit intervention on physical activity levels, cardiovascular health, body composition, and mental well-being among law students. A total of 50 first-year law students (24 females and 26 males) participated in a four-week CrossFit program consisting of three weekly sessions, each lasting 35-40 minutes. Participants were assessed at the beginning and end of the program using the Modified Baecke Physical Activity Questionnaire (MBPAQ), body composition measurements, and physiological indicators such as heart rate, blood pressure, and body fat percentage. Significant improvements were observed in physical activity levels (t = 7.135, p < 0.001), resting heart rate (t = 2.354, p = 0.027), systolic blood pressure (t = 6.669, p < 0.001), and body fat percentage (t = 6.431, p < 0.001). Small but significant increases were noted in body water content (p = 0.020). However, no significant changes were observed in work-related physical activity or bone mass. These results suggest that CrossFit is an effective intervention for enhancing physical and mental health in high-stress academic environments, particularly in improving cardiovascular health and body composition. The findings support the role of high-intensity exercise programs in reducing stress-related physiological markers in students.
Abstract:The aim of this research was to establish an effective rehabilitation program for youth athletes involved in team sports requiring ball-throwing motions, such as handball and polo, who experience biceps tendinitis in their throwing arm. This program sought to expedite their physical recovery. Data was collected over two competitive seasons and organized systematically. The study involved eight male handball players and twelve female polo players, all aged between 12 and 14, from private clubs associated with the physiotherapy center where treatment took place. A three-phase therapy regimen was designed. The Yergason and Speed tests were employed to identify biceps tendinitis, while the SPADI scale measured shoulder pain and functional limitations. The initial phase involved three days of therapeutic massage targeting the shoulder to enhance circulation and alleviate pain associated with movement. Results from palpation confirmed positive outcomes. The second phase incorporated both massage and three days of passive mobilization exercises for shoulder muscles, which helped reduce inflammation and improved joint mobility. The third and final phase, spanning four days, combined the second phase`s treatments with ten muscle-strengthening exercises aimed at restoring upper limb strength. This allowed participants to resume group training, with pain reduced to such a minimal level that it no longer interfered with physical activities.
Abstract:This study examines the implementation of the Feldenkrais Method within the framework of dance education in Singapore secondary schools using autoethnography to reflect on the experiences of a dance educator in a multicultural environment. The research provides insight into the challenges and opportunities presented by integrating somatic practices in educational settings that are culturally and pedagogically diverse. It highlights how the Feldenkrais Method, known for its focus on awareness through movement, can enhance the body-mind connection and improve students' artistic expression and embodiment in dance. Findings indicate that these somatic practices not only aid in the physical training of students but also significantly contribute to their emotional and cognitive engagement, fostering a more holistic educational experience. The paper discusses the implications of these findings for educational strategies and policy, advocating for an approach that prioritizes student-centered learning and creativity within the arts. The study also explores the role of co-curricular activities (CCAs) and the Singapore Youth Festival (SYF) in promoting artistic expression and cultural participation, emphasizing the need for educational equity and inclusivity in a multicultural landscape.