bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Membaca Cerpen Terhadap Minat Baca Siswa Kelas 4 SDN Wergu Kulon
Authors: Dwi Rahmadhani Oktaviana , Zakiatus Sholikhah Luluk , Virgianti Umi , Arinda May Listy Sherly , Amirul Hasan Dicky , Yesenia Nirwana Anggieta
Published: September 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui sejauh mana membaca cerpen dapat mepengaruhi minat baca siswa kelas IV SD 1 Wergu Kulon. Untuk mengetahui apakah minat baca siswa kelas IV SD 1 Wergu Kulon mengalami peningkatan setelah terlibat dalam kegiatan membaca cerpen.Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian kuantitatif Penelitian dilaksanakan di SD 1 Wergu Kulon, Kecamatan Kota, Kabupaten Kudus. Penelitian diawali dengan memberikan instrumen berupa lembar angket kepada 13 siswa kelas IV dan kemudian dikerjakan untuk menguji pemahaman awal siswa dalam membaca. Hal ini dipengaruhi oleh beberapa faktor, salah satunya adalah faktor internal yang berasal dari diri mereka sendiri, seperti minat dan kesadaran Berdasarkan angket yang diisi oleh siswa, ditemukan bahwa lebih banyak anak perempuan yang menyukai membaca dibandingkan dengan anak laki-laki. 

Kata Kunci:

Cerpen, Membaca, Sekolah Dasar
Analisis Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis Siswa Materi Keliling dan Luas Bangun Datar
Authors: Luluk Zakiatus Sholikhah  , Heny Oktaviana  , Lovika Ardana Riswari
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk menganalisis kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika siswa kelas IV di SDN 1 Gunung Panti. Metode yang digunakan adalah Deskriptif Kualitatif, yang bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika siswa kelas IV SD terkait soal cerita tentang luas dan keliling bangun datar. Populasi penelitian ini terdiri dari 15 siswa kelas IV SDN 1 Gunung Panti. Subjek penelitian terdiri dari 3 siswa yang dipilih secara purposive dari populasi tersebut. Data penelitian dikumpulkan melalui dokumentasi berupa jawaban siswa. Hasil analisis menunjukkan adanya perbedaan kemampuan matematika antara siswa-siswa tersebut. Siswa yang berprestasi tinggi mampu menyelesaikan semua soal dengan baik. Siswa berprestasi sedang menunjukkan kemampuan yang memadai, meskipun terdapat beberapa kesalahan. Siswa berprestasi rendah masih mengalami kesulitan dalam memecahkan soal cerita mengenai keliling dan luas bangun datar. Oleh karena itu, beberapa siswa masih membutuhkan bimbingan dari peneliti dalam memecahkan masalah matematika terkait keliling dan luas bangun datar.
“Spousal Relations” as a Lexical-Semantic Field of Economic Discourse: An Analysis of Manipulative Potential
Authors: Malyuga Elena , Krasnikova Daria , Tomalin Barry
Published: September 2023

The study aims to explore “spousal relations” as a lexical-semantic field of professional jargon in economic discourse by identifying lexical items and expressions related to spousal relations and used to discuss economic issues.
Resources in the Advertisement of Tertiary Institutions Qualifying Exams
Authors: Ibukunoluwa Rebecca
Published: September 2023

The study adopts van Leeuwen’s social semiotics theory. The study reveals that the advertisers deploy semiotic resources which suit the symbolic context of appealing to the dreams and anxiety of the admission seekers.
No amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis detected in four introduced populations of the midwife toad Alytes obstetricans in eastern England
Authors: GOODMAN MARK J. , CLEMENS DAVID J. , SHIMBOV MARIO I. , ALLAIN STEVEN J.R.
Published: September 2023

The amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis threatens amphibian species globally as the causative agent of chytridiomycosis, with the introduction of non-native species being one of the pathways that the pathogen can spread to naive populations. We have monitored and screened the common midwife toad Alytes obstetricans in four separate populations in eastern England, to investigate the potential threats to local amphibians. Forty-eight toads across all life stages were swabbed between May 2018 and August 2020, and screened for the presence of B. dendrobatidis DNA using qPCR. None of the samples tested were positive, indicating that it is unlikely that any of the A. obstetricans swabbed were infected with B. dendrobatidis. The populations surveyed represent only a small part of the species range in Britain, consequently a more widespread survey is recommended to increase confidence that British A. obstetricans are free of B. dendrobatidis.
Creative Entrepreneurship and the McKinsey 7S Framework: Utilizing a Servant Leadership Style
Authors: Parmer Lucinda L. , Dillard, Jr. John E. , Hughes Mathew
Published: September 2023

The origination of business ideas for new products or services occurs through the creative process. For example, an entrepreneur initially has a business idea for a new product or service that begins in mind. However, the idea needs to be successfully and strategically executed to become a sustainable reality. This research provides a variety of examples concerning conceptualizations of creativity that entrepreneurs can tap into further to enhance their creative abilities for business ideation generation. Further highlights include the psychological impediments entrepreneurs must be aware of and avoid that can stall the entrepreneurial process and the business from successfully launching and sustaining life long-term. Lastly, the authors demonstrate the similarities between the McKinsey 7s framework (Peters & Waterman, 2004) and the servant leadership style (Greenleaf, 1977), revealing how adopting a more formidable entrepreneurial approach involves “putting the people first” rather than solely focusing on strategy and complex numbers.
Student Loans, Employment Readiness, and Labor Market Outcomes
Authors: Hull Tyler , Krishnan Karthik , Rhodes Jean
Published: September 2023

We study whether student debt impacts individuals’ ability to adequately prepare for the labor market. Using no-loans financial aid policies as an exogenous shock to student loans, we find that student loans negatively impact students’ ability to have an internship that is related to the students chosen major. Internships are also shown to be positively associated with the likelihood of finding a job, the likelihood of finding employment in a related field of study, and job satisfaction. Student debt similarly dampens the positive effects of mentoring, professor support, and the school’s effort to prepare students for the labor market.
Desfechos obstétricos em gestações tardias na região sul do Tocantins
Authors: Silva Karolayne Ferreira Leão da , Magalhães Claudia Christina Ribeiro Guimarães Neri de , Alcântara Denise Soares de , Rocha Janete Carvalho da , Melo Márllos Peres de , Costa Gisela Daleva , Coutinho Halex Cavalcante
Published: September 2023

A gravidez tardia é o termo utilizado para caracterizar mulheres que engravidam após os 35 anos de idade, seja uma gravidez planejada ou não. Trata-se de uma realidade que cresce em todo o mundo, uma tendência das mulheres deste tempo, ocasionada por diversos fatores, entre eles, o anseio pela realização profissional. A presente pesquisa tem como objetivo, descrever os desfechos obstétricos das gestações tardias na Região do Sul do Tocantins, no período de 2019 a 2021. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, exploratório, retrospectivo, documental de abordagem quantitativa, com dados obtidos por meio do Sistema de Informação sobre Nascidos Vivos (SINASC). A amostra do estudo foi composta por um total de 455 registros de mulheres gestantes a partir de 35 anos. Que as mulheres tem adiado cada vez mais a gestação, não necessariamente com as relações conjugais mais sim a gestão, visando o termino dos estudos e o ingresso no mercado de trabalho. Cada dia mais aumenta o número de cesariana devido aos ricos do parto natural para esta faixearia.
Al2(SO4)3 alters the antioxidant mitochondrial metabolism of Botritys cinerea and optimizes the production of cellulose and oxidative degrading enzymes
Authors: Oliveira Maislian de , Silva Cristiane Bezerra da , Helm Cristiane Vieira , Zanoni Patrícia Raquel Silva , Auer Celso Garcia , Miguel Marilis Dallarmi
Published: September 2023

The enzymes produced by pathogenic fungi, especially Botritys cinerea, deserve specific attention due to the diversity of their applications, mainly in biofuel production, food processing, and the pharmaceutical industry. Thus, this work used Al2(SO4)3 as a stressor in order to evaluate if the stress levels caused by the concentrations of 100, 250, 500, and 1000 ppm were sufficient to increase the production of hydrolytic cellulolytic enzymes (FPase, CMCase, Avicelase, β-glucosidase, xylanase) and oxidative (laccase and manganese peroxidase). The study also evaluated the stress levels in previously treated mycelia of B. cinerea and whether they corresponded to the different states of mitochondrial respiration. Our study indicates that Al2(SO4)3 increased the production of cellulolytic and oxidative enzymes in all concentrations in a dose-dependent manner and that Al2(SO4)3 alters the mitochondrial respiratory rate, with lower ATP productions, indicating that less-coupled mitochondria were obtained and that this may be due to the increase of oxidative stress. Thus, it is plausible to suggest the use of Al2(SO4)3 in the production of cellulolytic enzymes, which could be used in the hydrolysis stage of second-generation ethanol production processes, as it reduces the time required for enzymatic expression applications in industrial processes.
Design of i-LOCA (Innovative Lobster Catcher) With Theoriya Resh-eniya Izobretatelskikh Zadatch (TRIZ) and Business Model Canvas (BMC) (Case Study: Gresik And Lamongan Fisherman Communities)
Authors: Nafiah Roikhanatun , Aqidawati Era Febriana
Published: September 2023

Indonesia has the potential of marine resources. Efforts are needed to explore and cultivate the existing marine resources appropriately. The problems of fishermen catching technology is one of the main factors causing the lack of competitiveness of nations in the world's fisheries. Lobster has a high sales value, but exploration is still minimal due to the absence of specific fishing gear. Lamongan and Gresik are the coastal areas in Java Sea with the lobster fishing commodities. At the time of the lobster season arrives, limited fishing gear is used in fishing gear such as fish traps and nets that are not a lobster fishing gear. Use the problem-solving process stages: literature studies and field studies. The study of literature used is overall product design, TRIZ and BMC. While field studies conducted in Gresik and Lamongan to seek consumer needs. In this data collection using interviews, FGD and giving questionnaires to fishermen. The design of lobster fishing gear done by TRIZ to resolve the contradiction existing problems and be approached BMC method that lobster fishing gear i-LOCA (Innovative Lobster Catcher) can be commercialized. i-LOCA has detection equipment or towing lobster with optimum fishing capacity to increase the income of fishermen.
Kemandirian Belajar Dalam Sistem Pembelajaran Jarak Jauh di Universitas Terbuka Daerah Sorong
Authors: Potolau Michel Jacson Nalawo
Published: September 2023

Kegiatan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat ini, merupakan kerjasama Universitas Terbuka Daerah Sorong dengan Radio Republik Indonesia Kota Sorong. Kegiatan ini bertujuan untuk memberikan edukasi kepada masyarakat dan khususnya mahasiswa sehingga memahami konsep belajar mandiri untuk membentuk karakter yang mandiri dalam melaksanakan proses belajar pada sistem pembelajaran jarak jauh. Kegiatan ini dilakukan dengan metode sosialisai dalam bentuk live dialog interaktif. Hasil dari kegiatan ini adalah masyarakat mendapatkan edukasi terkait belajar mandiri dalam sistem pembelajaran jarak jauh, dan bagi mahasiswa mampu menerapkan belajar mandiri sehingga lebih siap dalam mengiktui proses pembelajran dengan semua sitem yang ada di Universitas Terbuka guna menunjang keigatan belajar mahasiswa.
Efisiensi produksi budidaya ikan bandeng (Chanos chanos) di Kecamatan Tinanggea Kabupaten Konawe Selatan
Authors: Nining Putriyani  , Budiyanto  , Yusuf Sarini , Idris Muhammad , Ruslaini  , Riani Irdam
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi produksi, dan efisiensi budidaya ikan bandeng di Kecamatan Tinanggea Kabupaten Konawe Selatan. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada bulan Agustus-September 2022. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah pembudidaya ikan bandeng berjumlah 24 orang. Penentuan sampel dilakukan secara acak sederhana. Variabel yang dikumpulkan yakni jumlah produksi, luas lahan, tenaga kerja, jumlah nener, jumlah pupuk dan jumlah kapur. Analisis data yang digunakan yakni analisis regresi non linear berganda dan analisis efisiensi faktor produksi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa secara bersama-sama penggunaan faktor produksi budidaya ikan bandeng (luas lahan, tenaga kerja, jumlah nener, jumlah pupuk dan jumlah kapur) berpengaruh nyata atau signifikan terhadap produksi, sedangkan secara parsial (sendiri-sendiri) faktor yang berpengaruh nyata atau signifikan terhadap jumlah produksi adalah variabel luas lahan dan jumlah nener, dan faktor yang tidak nyata atau signifikan adalah  tenaga kerja, jumlah pupuk dan jumlah kapur. Namun penggunaan faktor produksi tidak efisien.
Electrostatic quantum dark energy in a seven-dimensional universe
Authors: Kesanasetty Sasidhar
Published: September 2023

This paper explains the dark energy and acceleration of the universe by quantizing the space in hidden dimensions, which provides the basis and background for the gravitational force through the curvature of space-time. Space-time is considered to be made of a four-dimensional elastic grid in a seven-dimensional universe in which matter also expands along with the universe. Each cube of the grid is considered a quantum of hidden three-dimensional space of Planck volume containing Planck charge, which makes the universe seven-dimensional. The dark energy is explained by the electrostatic repulsion between the Planck charges in each quantum of the hidden space. Mathematically, this electrostatic repulsion is related to the Hubble constant to explain the accelerated expansion, dark energy, and increase in the cosmological potential energy of matter.
NP on Logarithmic Space: Mediterranean International Conference of Pure & Applied Mathematics and Related Area (MICOPAM 2023)
Authors: Vega Frank
Published: September 2023

The $P$ versus $NP$ problem consists in knowing the answer of the following question: Is $P$ equal to $NP$? It was essentially mentioned in 1955 from a letter written by John Nash to the United States National Security Agency. However, a precise statement of the $P$ versus $NP$ problem was introduced independently by Stephen Cook and Leonid Levin. Since that date, all efforts to find a proof for this problem have failed. Another major complexity classes are $DSPACE(S(n))$ and $NSPACE(S(n))$ for every space-constructible function $S(n)$. We prove that $NP \subseteq NSPACE(\log^{2} n)$ just using logarithmic space reductions.
The Quantum and thermodynamic properties of dyonic RN-like black holes
Authors: CHEN WEN-XIANG
Published: September 2023

The effect of magnetic fields on black hole superradiance is an exciting topic with possible astrophysical applications. A dyonic RN-like black hole is not asymptotically flat. It describes a black hole immersed in an asymptotically uniform magnetic field. This paper discusses the superadditive stability of binary RN black holes, asymptotically flat, band-like black holes. This article introduces the above condition into dyonic RN-like black holes if a dyonic RN-like black hole satisfies the requirement of $\mu=y\omega$, When $\sqrt{2(B^2+Q^2)}/{r^2_+}< \omega< q\varPhi_H$,particularly $\mu \ge \sqrt{2}(q\varPhi_H)$,the dyonic RN-like black hole is superradiantly stable at that time.Scalars can be seen as combinations of positive/negative powers of a base, much like the decimal system. This principle is key in math and computing, from number systems to Fourier series (linked to $e^{i x}$ ). Dyonic RN-like black holes show no phase transition.
Challenges and insights in the exploration of the low abundance human ocular surface microbiome
Authors: Herzog Elio L. , Kreuzer Marco , Zinkernagel Martin S. , Zysset-Burri Denise C.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The low microbial abundance on the ocular surface results in challenges in the characterization of its microbiome. The purpose of this study was to reveal factors introducing bias in the pipeline from sample collection to data analysis of low-abundant microbiomes.

Methods

Lower conjunctiva and lower lid swabs were collected from six participants using either standard cotton or flocked nylon swabs. Microbial DNA was isolated with two different kits (with or without prior host DNA depletion and mechanical lysis), followed by whole-metagenome shotgun sequencing with a high sequencing depth set at 60 million reads per sample. The relative microbial compositions were generated using the two different tools MetaPhlan3 and Kraken2.

Results

The total amount of extracted DNA was increased by using nylon flocked swabs on the lower conjunctiva. In total, 269 microbial species were detected. The most abundant bacterial phyla were Actinobacteria, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria. Depending on the DNA extraction kit and tool used for profiling, the microbial composition and the relative abundance of viruses varied.

Conclusion

The microbial composition on the ocular surface is not dependent on the swab type, but on the DNA extraction method and profiling tool. These factors have to be considered in further studies about the ocular surface microbiome and other sparsely colonized microbiomes in order to improve data reproducibility. Understanding challenges and biases in the characterization of the ocular surface microbiome may set the basis for microbiome-altering interventions for treatment of ocular surface associated diseases.
Development of a multi-scale monitoring programme: approaches for the Arctic and lessons learned from the Circumpolar Biodiversity Monitoring Programme 2002-2022
Authors: Barry Tom , Christensen Tom , Behe Carolina , Coon Catherine , Culp Joseph M. , Vongraven Dag , Fletcher Sierra , Gill Micheal , Goedkoop Willem , Hindrum Reidar , Jacobson Cynthia , Jones Tahzay , Lárusson Kári Fannar , Lento Jennifer , Marissink Mark , McLennan Donald , Price Courtney , Rönkä Mia , Svoboda Michael , Thaulow Inge , Taylor Jason , Wegeberg Susse , Schmidt Niels Martin , Smith Risa , Petersen Ævar
Published: September 2023

The Arctic Council working group, the Conservation of Arctic Flora and Fauna (CAFF) established the Circumpolar Biodiversity Monitoring Programme (CBMP), an international network of scientists, governments, Indigenous organizations, and conservation groups working to harmonize and integrate efforts to extend and develop monitoring and assessment of the Arctic’s biodiversity. Its relevance stretches beyond the Arctic to a broad range of regional and global initiatives and agreements. This paper describes the process and approach taken in the last two decades to develop and implement the CBMP. It documents challenges encountered, lessons learnt, and solutions, and considers how it has been a model for national, regional, and global monitoring programmes; explores how it has impacted Arctic biodiversity monitoring, assessment, and policy and concludes with observations on key issues and next steps. The following are overarching prerequisites identified in the implementation of the CBMP: effective coordination, sufficient and sustained funding, improved standards and protocols, co-production of knowledge and equitable involvement of IK approaches, data management to facilitating regional analysis and comparisons, communication and outreach to raising awareness and engagement in the programme, ensuring resources to engage in international fora to ensuring programme implementation.
Results of new-generation balloon vs. self-expandable transcatheter heart valves for bicuspid aortic valve stenosis
Authors: Deutsch Oliver , Vitanova Keti , Ruge Hendrik , Erlebach Magdalena , Krane Markus , Lange Rüdiger
Published: September 2023

Background

Data comparing new-generation self-expandable (SEV, Evolut R/PRO) vs. balloon-expandable (BEV, SAPIEN 3/3Ultra) transcatheter heart valve replacement (TAVR) in bicuspid aortic valve stenosis (BAV) is limited. Our aim was to compare 30-day results of SEV and BEV implantations in patients with BAV.

Methods

A total of 2009 patients underwent TAVR between April 2015 and June 2021 at our Centre. From our institutional registry, we identified 106 consecutive patients with BAV who underwent TAVR using SEV and BEV.

Results

A 106 patients (n = 68 BEV; n = 38 SEV) were included. Mean age was 74.6 ± 8.8 years (BEV) vs.75.3 ± 8.7 years (SEV) (p = 0.670) and Society of Thoracic Surgeons score was 2.6 ± 1.9 (BEV) vs. 2.6 ± 1.6 (SEV) (p = 0.374), respectively. Device landing zone calcium volume (DLZ-CV) was 1168 ± 811 vs. 945 ± 850 mm3 (p = 0.192). Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-3 device success at 30 days was similar (BEV 80.9% vs. SEV 86.8%; p = 0.433). More post-dilatations were performed in SEVs (23.5% BEV vs. 52.6% SEV; p = 0.002). Overall mean gradient at 30 days follow-up was 11.9 ± 4.6 mmHG (BEV) vs. 9.2 ± 3.0 mmHG (SEV) (p = 0.002). A mild-moderate degree of paravalvular leak (PVL) was detected more often in the SEV group (7.4% vs. 13.2%; p = 0.305). A trend towards higher rate of permanent pacemaker implantation was observed in SEV (11.8% vs. 23.7%; p = 0.109).

Conclusions

Treatment of BAV revealed similar performance using BEV and SEV. In this retrospective cohort study, hemodynamics were more favorable with the SEV, although there was a trend toward more PVL and significantly more post-dilations.
Stochastic dynamics construction of a three-dimensional microstructure of red clay
Authors: Zhang Xiaohu , Zhang Jiabing , Li Xin , Ren Xiao
Published: September 2023

Constructing a microstructure of red clay is an important part of studying the physical and mechanical properties of red clay. The study of red clay microstructure is generalized. The red clay matrix and pores are regarded as two types of randomly moving particles, and the microstructure model of three-dimensional red clay random porous media is established from the Langevin equation of the phase separation process in stochastic dynamics, using the separation and aggregation of the two particles. The model controls the evolution process of the porous medium by artificially controlling the particle placement. Here, the trends of porosity, average pore length, Euler’s number, and the fractal dimension of the porous medium during the evolution process under different parameter conditions (smooth length Δ and rise and fall term η) are calculated, and a feasible method for surviving the microstructure of red clay is summarized. Due to the consideration of the interaction forces between the solid- and void-phase particles, the porous media generated by this model are more similar to the real porous media in nature, with connected and unconnected pore structures and tortuous pore channels. Finally, the red clay of Bijie, Guizhou, is modeled as an example to prove the feasibility of the method.
Analysis of energy consumption characteristics and fracture characteristics of moraine grouting solidified body under uniaxial compression
Authors: Li Zheng-rong , Jiang Ming-gui , Feng Xing-long , Wang Shao-yong , Zeng Qing-tian , Chen Chong , Liu Wen-lian , Sun Wei
Published: September 2023

Glacial movement causes massive accumulation of fine-grained moraine, which often induces slope instability, moraine debris flow, and other geological hazards due to the effects of rain and the ice-snow melting. This study used a modified phosphoric acid-water glass slurry for grouting and curing moraine, and analyzed the influencing law of water glass Baume degree and curing age on energy consumption characteristics as well as the fracture properties of the grout-cured body of moraine using the uniaxial compression test. The results showed that the gel time of phosphoric acid-water glass slurry increased with the increasing addition of phosphoric acid and that it had a mutation phenomenon. The gel time increased linearly with the increasing addition of phosphoric acid before the mutation. Moreover, the compressive strength, pre-peak total energy, pre-peak elastic energy, pre-peak dissipative energy, elastic energy density, dissipative energy density, and pre-peak fracture toughness of the moraine curing body at same curing age increased linearly with the increase of water glass Baume degree by 46%–218%. The compressive strength, pre-peak elastic energy, and pre-peak elastic energy density of the moraine curing body increased with the curing age but grew slowly from 3 days to 7 days and rapidly from 7 days to 14 days. Through regression analysis of the test results, the fracture toughness calculation formula was derived from an energy perspective. These research results have significant implications for the reinforcement of moraine strata grouting and glacial debris flow disaster prevention and control.
Diagnostic efficiency among Eu-/C-/ACR-TIRADS and S-Detect for thyroid nodules: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Longtao , Li Cong , Chen Zhe , He Shaqi , Wang Zhiyuan , Liu Jun
Published: September 2023

Background

The performance in evaluating thyroid nodules on ultrasound varies across different risk stratification systems, leading to inconsistency and uncertainty regarding diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Objective

Comparing diagnostic performance of detecting thyroid cancer among distinct ultrasound risk stratification systems proposed in the last five years.

Evidence acquisition

Systematic search was conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases to find relevant research up to December 8, 2022, whose study contents contained elucidation of diagnostic performance of any one of the above ultrasound risk stratification systems (European Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System[Eu-TIRADS]; American College of Radiology TIRADS [ACR TIRADS]; Chinese version of TIRADS [C-TIRADS]; Computer-aided diagnosis system based on deep learning [S-Detect]). Based on golden diagnostic standard in histopathology and cytology, single meta-analysis was performed to obtain the optimal cut-off value for each system, and then network meta-analysis was conducted on the best risk stratification category in each system.

Evidence synthesis

This network meta-analysis included 88 studies with a total of 59,304 nodules. The most accurate risk category thresholds were TR5 for Eu-TIRADS, TR5 for ACR TIRADS, TR4b and above for C-TIRADS, and possible malignancy for S-Detect. At the best thresholds, sensitivity of these systems ranged from 68% to 82% and specificity ranged from 71% to 81%. It identified the highest sensitivity for C-TIRADS TR4b and the highest specificity for ACR TIRADS TR5. However, sensitivity for ACR TIRADS TR5 was the lowest. The diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and area under curve (AUC) were ranked first in C-TIRADS.

Conclusion

Among four ultrasound risk stratification options, this systemic review preliminarily proved that C-TIRADS possessed favorable diagnostic performance for thyroid nodules.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, CRD42022382818.
Turner syndrome transition clinic in the West of Scotland: a perspective
Authors: Zahra Baryab , Sastry Aparna , Freel Marie , Donaldson Malcolm , Mason Avril
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Turner Syndrome (TS) is the commonest chromosomal abnormality in females. Establishing and maintaining long-term follow-up after transition to adult endocrine services, to allow for essential lifelong surveillance of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, and optimal hormone replacement, remains a challenge. A TS transition clinic was established with the aim of supporting successful transfer and establishing long-term follow-up in adult endocrine services. Our objectives are to evaluate the success of our TS transition service primarily in achieving and maintaining follow-up after transfer to adult services and to assess the adequacy of health surveillance post-transition with a specific focus on cardiac monitoring and hormone replacement.

Methods

A departmental database was used to identify young people whose care had transferred to adult endocrine services. An electronic case record was utilised to obtain clinic attendance and relevant clinical information on cardiovascular monitoring and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Results

Forty-six (n=46) young people transferred to adult endocrine services during the observed 20-year period, 1998-2017. Thirty-six (n=36) had transferred prior to 2015, of whom sixteen (n=16, 44%) are lost to long-term follow-up at 5 years. Overall, 41 (89%) patients have had cardiac imaging surveillance since transferring, However, only 30 (73%) of these were carried out at the recommended frequencies. All 20 women in established follow-up have had cardiac imaging. Five out of the 46 (11%) patients do not have any documented cardiovascular monitoring. Forty (86.9%) women have had a documented BP measurement. Nineteen of the 20 women who are in 5- year established follow-up have a documented blood pressure. Five (11%) women are not on HRT, while two (4%) remain on oestrogen-only HRT. Thirty-seven (80.4%) women are on combined HRT, only eight (21.6%) are on the recommended form of oestradiol. Two (4%) are not on HRT due to normal ovarian function.

Conclusion

A significant proportion of girls with TS are currently lost to adult endocrine services. Strategies to improve long-term endocrine follow-up are needed to ensure lifelong health needs and adequate hormone replacement are met. Whilst similar parameters are monitored in adult endocrine services a group of patients may be at risk of receiving inadequate HRT and developing cardiovascular complications.
Testis exposure to unopposed/elevated activin A in utero affects somatic and germ cells and alters steroid levels mimicking phthalate exposure
Authors: Whiley Penny A. F. , Luu Michael C. M. , O’Donnell Liza , Handelsman David J. , Loveland Kate L.
Published: September 2023

Correct fetal testis development underpins adult male fertility, and TGFβ superfamily ligands control key aspects of this process. Transcripts encoding one such ligand, activin A, are upregulated in testes after sex determination and remain high until after birth. Testis development requires activin signalling; mice lacking activin A (Inhba KO) display altered somatic and germ cell proliferation, disrupted cord elongation and altered steroid synthesis. In human pregnancies with pre-eclampsia, the foetus is inappropriately exposed to elevated activin A. To learn how this affects testis development, we examined mice lacking the potent activin inhibitor, inhibin, (Inha KO) at E13.5, E15.5 and PND0. At E13.5, testes appeared similar in WT and KO littermates, however E15.5 Inha KO testes displayed two germline phenotypes: (1) multinucleated germ cells within cords, and (2) germ cells outside of cords, both of which are documented following in utero exposure to endocrine disrupting phthalates in rodents. Quantitation of Sertoli and germ cells in Inha KO (modelling elevated activin A) and Inhba KO (low activin A) testes using immunofluorescence demonstrated activin A bioactivity determines the Sertoli/germ cell ratio. The 50% reduction in gonocytes in Inha KO testes at birth indicates unopposed activin A has a profound impact on embryonic germ cells. Whole testis RNAseq on Inha KO mice revealed most transcripts affected at E13.5 were present in Leydig cells and associated with steroid biosynthesis/metabolism. In agreement, androstenedione (A4), testosterone (T), and the A4:T ratio were reduced in Inha KO testes at E17.5, confirming unopposed activin A disrupts testicular steroid production. E15.5 testes cultured with either activin A and/or mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) generated common histological and transcriptional outcomes affecting germline and Leydig cells, recapitulating the phenotype observed in Inha KO testes. Cultures with activin A and MEHP together provided evidence of common targets. Lastly, this study extends previous work focussed on the Inhba KO model to produce a signature of activin A bioactivity in the fetal testis. These outcomes show the potential for elevated activin A signalling to replicate some aspects of fetal phthalate exposure prior to the masculinization programming window, influencing fetal testis growth and increasing the risk of testicular dysgenesis.
A review of CO2 catalytic regeneration research based on MEA solution
Authors: Yang Zhiyuan , Shen Yuhang , Yang Haoran , Yi Hui , Guo Hao , Zhang Xiaoliang
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the rapid increase of CO2 emission has caused severe environmental issues. The environmental concern has made how to reduce the carbon emissions become a hot topic. Many scholars and research teams believe that the organic amine chemical absorption technology is the most favored and promising carbon capture technology due to its highly CO2 removal effectiveness. However, it is not applied wildly in industrial environment since the desorption process energy consumption is too much, over 4 GJ/t CO2. Many researchers report that catalysts can help to reduce the desorption energy. And it is generally assumed that four key properties of solid acid catalysts determined the performance of solid acid catalysts in the process of CO2 desorption: the total number of acid sites; specific surface area; the ratio of Brønsted acid sites to Lewis acid sites; the amount of Brønsted acid sites. Therefore, this paper reviews the recent research on the effect of different catalysts on the energy consumption of CO2 desorption and the progress of research on improving catalyst performance. Also, it provides views on the possible problems in practical industrial applications.
Association of Calpain10 polymorphisms with polycystic ovarian syndrome susceptibility: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Li Yamei , Han Ting , Wang Yingxia , Gao Jie , Zhang Jianglin , Wu Yinglan , Luo Jiayou
Published: September 2023

Insulin resistance plays an important role in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Calpain10 (CAPN10) gene was the first identified susceptibility gene for type 2 diabetes mellitus and closely related to insulin sensitivity. A lot of research attention has been attracted on the relationship between CAPN10 polymorphisms and PCOS risk, but they didn’t reach a consistent conclusion. We therefore performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the association of CAPN10 common variants with PCOS susceptibility. A total of 21 studies were eligible for inclusion. Meta-analyses were done for 5 variants that had at least two data sources: UCSNP-19, -43, −44, −56 and −63. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated under five genetic models. Subgroup analyses by ethnicity, PCOS diagnostic criteria, and source of controls were conducted. Moreover, false-positive report probability (FPRP) test and trial sequential analysis (TSA) were performed to assess the significant associations. The results showed a possible negative association between UCSNP-19 and PCOS risk (ins/ins vs. del/del + del/ins: OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.72–0.98). In subgroup analyses, FPRP test indicated that noteworthy associations were observed in mixed ethnicities for UCSNP-43 (A vs. G: OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.17-2.79; AA + AG vs. GG: OR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.20-3.80) and in Asians for UCSNP-44 (CC vs. TT: OR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.21-3.51; CC vs. CT + TT: OR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.31-3.69), but TSA plots showed that the accumulated sample sizes of these associations were insufficient to draw firm conclusions. In summary, our study suggested that UCSNP-19, UCSNP-43, and UCSNP-44 in CAPN10 gene may be involved in PCOS susceptibility. These findings warrant further studies.
Socio-demographic and antenatal care-related factors associated with early post-partum family planning use in Ethiopia: evidence from Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey 2016 data
Authors: Asratie Melaku Hunie , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn , Chilot Dagmawi , Aragaw Fantu Mamo , Merid Mehari Woldemariam , Belay Daniel Gashaneh
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Initiation of family planning in the early post-partum period is a strategic move to reduce maternal, neonatal, and child mortality due to the negative consequences of short interbirth interval and the complications of unintended pregnancy. Antenatal care (ANC) is the noteworthy predictor of scaling up early initiation of post-partum family planning (PPFP) and preventing unintended pregnancy before menses resume. Despite the great role of ANC, information is scant about the effect of content, timing, and the number of ANC visits on the early initiation of PPFP in Ethiopia.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the association of ANC services with the early initiation of PPFP in Ethiopia.

Methods

The study was based on Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey 2016 data, which was a cross-sectional survey from 18 January 2016 to 27 June 2016. A total weighted sample size of 2,920 post-partum women was included. A multilevel logistic regression model was used because of the hierarchical data, and variables with a p-value of ≤0.2 in the bivariable multilevel analysis were taken to multivariable multilevel analysis. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to declare both the direction and strength of the association, and variables with a p-value of <0.05 were considered as statistically significant for the outcome variable.

Results

The early initiation of PPFP was 20.4%. Women with at least four ANC visits [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.31; CI 1.12–2.32], women who started ANC within the first trimester (AOR = 1.25; CI 1.10–2.23), complete routine ANC (AOR = 1.11; CI 1.01–2.03), post-natal care (AOR = 1.45; CI 1.19–1.87), resumption of menses (AOR = 1.67; CI 1.18–1.93), urban residency (AOR = 2.14; CI 1.18–2.51), and high community women’s education (AOR = 1.71; CI 1.51–2.11) were variables significantly associated with the early initiation of PPFP.

Conclusion

The early initiation of PPFP in Ethiopia was very low. Attention needs to be given to the quality of ANC, post-natal care, resumption of menses, residency, and community-level education of women to increase the prevalence of the early initiation of PPFP in Ethiopia. Therefore, the government should design a program targeting the quality of ANC in rural communities, considering women without menses and scaling up the education of women at the community level to the culture of the early initiation of PPFP in order to achieve reduced maternal, neonatal, and child mortality.
Immunotherapies targeting tumor vasculature: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Dianat-Moghadam Hassan , Nedaeinia Reza , Keshavarz Mohsen , Azizi Mehdi , Kazemi Mohammad , Salehi Rasoul
Published: September 2023

Angiogenesis is a hallmark of cancer biology, and neoadjuvant therapies targeting either tumor vasculature or VEGF signaling have been developed to treat solid malignant tumors. However, these therapies induce complete vascular depletion leading to hypoxic niche, drug resistance, and tumor recurrence rate or leading to impaired delivery of chemo drugs and immune cell infiltration at the tumor site. Achieving a balance between oxygenation and tumor growth inhibition requires determining vascular normalization after treatment with a low dose of antiangiogenic agents. However, monotherapy within the approved antiangiogenic agents’ benefits only some tumors and their efficacy improvement could be achieved using immunotherapy and emerging nanocarriers as a clinical tool to optimize subsequent therapeutic regimens and reduce the need for a high dosage of chemo agents. More importantly, combined immunotherapies and nano-based delivery systems can prolong the normalization window while providing the advantages to address the current treatment challenges within antiangiogenic agents. This review summarizes the approved therapies targeting tumor angiogenesis, highlights the challenges and limitations of current therapies, and discusses how vascular normalization, immunotherapies, and nanomedicine could introduce the theranostic potentials to improve tumor management in future clinical settings.
Protective effect of hydroxychloroquine on infections in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: an observational study using the LUNA registry
Authors: Hidekawa Chiharu , Yoshimi Ryusuke , Saigusa Yusuke , Tamura Jun , Kojitani Noriko , Suzuki Naoki , Sakurai Natsuki , Yoshioka Yuji , Sugiyama-Kawahara Yumiko , Kunishita Yosuke , Kishimoto Daiga , Higashitani Kana , Sato Yuichiro , Komiya Takaaki , Nagai Hideto , Hamada Naoki , Maeda Ayaka , Tsuchida Naomi , Hirahara Lisa , Soejima Yutaro , Takase-Minegishi Kaoru , Kirino Yohei , Yajima Nobuyuki , Sada Ken-ei , Miyawaki Yoshia , Ichinose Kunihiro , Ohno Shigeru , Kajiyama Hiroshi , Sato Shuzo , Shimojima Yasuhiro , Fujiwara Michio , Nakajima Hideaki
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Infection is a leading cause of death in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Alt hough hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) has been reported to inhibit infection, evidence from Asian populations remains insufficient. We investigated this effect in Japanese SLE patients.

Methods

Data from the Lupus Registry of Nationwide Institutions were used in this study. The patients were ≥20 years old and met the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria revised in 1997. We defined “severe infections” as those requiring hospitalization. We analyzed the HCQ’s effect on infection suppression using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) logistic regression model as the primary endpoint and performed a survival analysis for the duration until the first severe infection.

Results

Data from 925 patients were used (median age, 45 [interquartile range 35–57] years; female, 88.1%). GEE analysis revealed that severe infections were significantly associated with glucocorticoid dose (odds ratio [OR] 1.968 [95% confidence interval, 1.379–2.810], p<0.001), immunosuppressants (OR 1.561 [1.025–2.380], p=0.038), and baseline age (OR 1.043 [1.027–1.060], p<0.001). HCQ tended to suppress severe infections, although not significantly (OR 0.590 [0.329–1.058], p=0.077). Survival time analysis revealed a lower incidence of severe infections in the HCQ group than in the non-HCQ group (p<0.001). In a Cox proportional hazards model, baseline age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.029 [1.009–1.050], p=0.005) and HCQ (HR 0.322 [0.142–0.728], p=0.006) were significantly related to incidence.

Conclusion

HCQ may help extend the time until the occurrence of infection complications and tends to decrease infection rates.
Natural infection versus hybrid (natural and vaccination) humoral immune response to SARS-CoV-2: a comparative paired analysis
Authors: AbdelWareth Laila , Alhousani Farida , Abuyadek Rowan , Donnelly James , Leinberger-Jabari Andrea , Atef Shereen , Al-Rifai Rami H.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

There is substantial immunological evidence that vaccination following natural infection increases protection. We compare the humoral immune response developed in initially seropositive individuals (naturally infected) to humoral hybrid immune response (developed after infection and vaccination) in the same population group after one year.

Methods

The study included 197 male individuals who were naturally infected with SARS-CoV-2 and then vaccinated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Trimeric spike, nucleocapsid, and ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies for SARS-CoV-2 were measured. Nasal swabs were collected for SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing. Information on vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and PCR verified infection was retrieved from official databases (Abu Dhabi Health Data Services- SP LLC. (“Malaffi”), including number of vaccine doses received, date of vaccination, and type of the received vaccine.

Results

All the study population were tested PCR-Negative at the time of sample collection. Our results showed that there was a significant rise in the mean (SD) and median (IQR) titers of trimeric spike, nucleocapsid and ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies in the post-vaccination stage. The mean (± SD) and median (IQR) concentration of the anti-S antibody rose by 3.3-fold (+230% ± 197% SD) and 2.8-fold (+185%, 220–390%, p<0.001), respectively. There was an observed positive dose-response relationship between number of the received vaccine doses and having higher proportion of study participants with higher than median concentration in the difference between the measured anti-S and ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies in the post-vaccination compared to pre-vaccination.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that COVID-19 vaccination post natural infection elicits a robust immunological response with an impressive rise of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, especially the ACE2-RBD blocking antibodies.
The immunogenicity of human-origin therapeutic antibodies are associated with V gene usage
Authors: Hu Zicheng , Cohen Sivan , Swanson Steven J.
Published: September 2023

Therapeutic antibodies can elicit unwanted immune responses in a subset of patients, which leads to the production of anti-drug antibodies (ADA). Some of these ADAs have been reported to effect the pharmacokinetics, efficacy and/or safety of the therapeutic antibodies. The sequence diversity of antibodies are generated by VDJ recombination and mutagenesis. While the antibody generation process can create a large candidate pool for identifying high-affinity antibodies, it also could produce sequences that are foreign to the human immune system. However, it is not clear how VDJ recombination and mutagenesis impact the clinical ADA rate of therapeutic antibodies. In this study, we identified a positive correlation between the clinical ADA rate and the number of introduced mutations in the antibody sequences. We also found that the use of rare V alleles in human-origin antibody therapeutics is associated with higher risk of immunogenicity. The results suggest that antibody engineering projects should start with frameworks that contain commonly used V alleles and prioritize antibody candidates with low number of mutations to reduce the risk of immunogenicity.
Mechanical properties of Lop Nor salt rock fillers for subgrade and its forecast model construction
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Liu Jie , Wang Chaohui , Song Liang , Chen Haoyu
Published: September 2023

A deep exploration was conducted on the evolution law of the mechanical properties of salt rock fillers under the influence of different forming parameters in the Lop Nor area to promote the engineering application process of salt rock. The accuracy of primary regression, square regression, and support vector machine (SVM) regression algorithms in predicting the mechanical properties of salt rock fillers was compared, and the most accurate prediction model for the California bearing ratio (CBR) and rebound modulus of salt rock fillers were recommended. The results showed that the optimal brine content of SC-40, SC-20, and SC-10 salt rock fillers was between 8.2% and 9.3%, with a dry density of approximately 1.69–1.76 g/cm3. The CBR of salt rock samples gradually decreased with an increase in brine content, and the rebound modulus was higher than 90.6 MPa. As the compaction degree increased, the CBR value increased significantly, and the rebound modulus increased by approximately 28.1 MPa. As the immersion time increased, the mechanical properties of salt rock gradually decreased. Among the various regression models, the SVM prediction model had the highest accuracy index coefficient of determination (R2), whereas the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean absolute error (MAE) were the smallest. Therefore, the SVM prediction model was recommended to accurately estimate the mechanical properties of salt rock roadbed fillers and provide a reference for the regulation of compaction parameters and the guarantee of bearing capacity characteristics of salt rock roadbeds.