bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studi Karakteristik Hubung Singkat Simetris Berbasis Hybrid Generator Energi Terbarukan dan Termal
Authors: Azis Fatmawati , Parawangsa Akbar Naro , Fitri Sulistyaningsih Nur
Published: August 2023

Sumber energi listrik saat ini tidak hanya di suplai dari energi fosil,, namun juga disuplai dari energi terbarukan. Mulai dari energi air, matahari, angin, panas bumi, dan bio massa baik yang stand-alone maupun on-grid. Sistem on-grid yang saling terinterkoneksi satu sama lain seringkali mengalami kendala dalam hal gangguan baik dari internal maupun eksternal. Gangguan pada sistem kelistrikan telah banyak dikaji pada beberapa penelitian sebelumnya. Gangguan tersebut berupa hubung singkat tiga fasa seimbang, dan gangguan tiga fasa tidak seimbang. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada sistem9 bus IEEE. Fokus penelitian pada perubahan-perubahan parameter saat terjadi hubung singkat seimbang dengan mempertimbangkan hibrid pembangkit. Sistem hibridnya memperalelkan 3 jenis generator yang berbeda yaitu termal, air dan angin. Hasil penelitian ini memperlihatkan Sk” tertinggi berada pada bus 1 1496,1 MVA dengan Sb 1207,11 MVA,sementara yang terendah berada pada bus 6 yaitu 547,97 MVA dengan Sb 547,97 MVA. Parameter arus setiap bus dengan Ik, Ik”, Ith, Ib tertinggi masing-masing 52,35 kA, 52.35 kA, 53.57 kA, 42.24 kA, dan terendah berada pada bus 6  masing- masing  1.38 kA, 1.38 kA, 1.39 kA, 1.38 kA.  Kesimpulannya, daya kompleks ketika terjadi gangguan tertinggi berada pada bus 1 dan terendah berada pada bus 6. Begitu pula arus gangguan yang terjadi pada sistem 9 bus IEEE ini, tertinggi berada pada bus 1 dan terendah berada pada bus 6.
Rancang Bangun Turbin Angin Sumbu Horizontal Dengan Generator BLDC Sebagai Sistem Penerangan
Authors: Nur Fitri Sulistianingsih , Azis Fatmawati , Muhammad Hartini An Nuur , Rusli Rusli , Hidayat Rahmat Nur
Published: August 2023

Angin termasuk salah satu energi terbarukan yang dapat diperbaharui karena kesediaannya yang tidak terbatas di alam. Energi angin seharusnya bisa menjadi alternatif ditengah krisisnya energi fosil dimasa sekarang. Secara geografis, Indonesia berpotensi untuk mengembangkan pembangkit listrik energi alternatif, diantaranya adalah energi angin yang berhembus relatif stabil sepanjang tahun dengan rata-rata kecepatan 5 m/detik. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah merancang pembangkit listrik tenaga angin menggunakan turbin angin sumbu horizontal dengan generator BLDC sebagai sistem penerangan agar masyakarat sekitar dapat memanfaatkan sumber daya yang tersedia sebagai media untuk menghasilkan energi listrik. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksperimental dengan merancang pembangkit listrik tenaga angin sumbu horizontal dengan generator BLDC sebagai sistem penerangan dengan rancangan output otomatis dari generator, menganalisa besar arus, tegangan, dan merakit lampu LED sebagai sumber pencahayaan. Pengujian alat dilakukan di pantai Indah Bosowa, jln. Metro Tanjung Bunga, Makassar, Sulawesi Selatan. Hasil pengambilan data pengujian alat pada pukul 15.00 dengan pengujian tanpa beban menghasilkan tegangan keluaran 24,9 V pada kecepatan angin 3,1 m/s, sedangkan pada pengujian dengan beban tegangan keluaran tertinggi yang dihasilkan turbin angin sebesar13,6 V pada kecepatan angin 3,1 m/s dengan arus sebesar 0,15 A menyalakan 1 buah lampu 9 Watt DC dan charger 1 buah aki 12 V 7,5 Ah. Sedankan tegangan terendah pada pukul 06.00 sampai pukul 10.00 tanpa menghasilkan tegangan keluaran dengan kecepatan angin 0,7 m/s sampai 1,3 m/s.
Rancang Bangun Media Pembelajaran Trainer PLC
Authors: Mustafa Syahrul , Nurfitri Sulistianingsih , Jauhar Annisa J , Fuadi Rahmat , Rizal Ahmad
Published: August 2023

Pada dunia pendidikan pengaplikasian PLC (programmable logic controller) banyak digunakan sebagai sarana media pembelajaran dalam menunjang contoh penerapan plc pada dunia industri. penelitian ini menggunakan jenis metode eksperimen yang dikerjakan dengan tahap pengadaan, merangkai, dan pelaksanaan uji coba alat. plc merupakan komputer khusus yang digunakan dalam pengendalian dan mengoperasikan proses pengerjaan  serta bagian mesin. Sistem benda ini dikendalikan dengan menginput data ke HMI (human machine interface) dan telah dibuat rangkaian leader diagram pada cx programmer. Berdasarkan beberapa percobaan yang telah dilakukan pada trainer pembelajaran plc, semua telah beroperasi sesuai dengan rancangan, 15 rangkaian tersebut telah di praktikkan sesuai dengan tupoksi komponen-komponen yang digunakan, mulai dari rangkaian plc dan software yang telah dibuat, bekerja dan beroperasi dengan baik.
Application of the AHP Method for Comparative Analysis of Software Systems in Traffic from the Aspect of Traffic Safety
Authors: Pantelić Ognjen , Pešić Dalibor , Vujanić Milan , Švab Katarina , Trifunović Aleksandar
Published: August 2023

It is generally known that traffic safety is influenced by humans, vehicles, and roads. Nowadays, when new technologies have taken over a large part of the traffic industry, the selection of relevant software, whose competition is great, presents a big problem for the decision-maker. Intelligent systems, such as Motion, SCOOT, and SCATS, are used for the implementation of a control strategy in order to manage signals on the traffic network, with the goal of increasing efficiency and traffic safety. These systems operate on the demand-responsive principle and have logic for traffic optimization which represents their main difference along with the optimization subject and method of the system functioning. The research included consideration of mentioned differences, software, and hardware architecture that have a significant impact on the system’s functionality since the detector’s locations themselves depend on the optimization subject. The implementation benefits are considered through the existing world’s projects. Based on the obtained data, the criteria used for the comparative analysis of these three systems were defined, from the aspect of traffic safety.
Catatan Managing Editor: Pulau Buru, Kesetaraan, dan Kedaulatan dalam Sains
Authors: Akhyar Muhammad
Published: August 2023

Dalam nuansa peringatan hari kemerdekaan saya teringat penggalan kalimat “Uh, Hindia, negeri yang hanya dapat menunggu-nunggu hasil kerja Eropa!” yang ditulis Pramoedya Ananta Toer dalam Bumi Manusia, salah satu novel dari Tetralogi Pulau Buru. Dalam konteks sains seperti Psikologi (Sosial), lebih-lebih bahan ajar yang diberikan di kelas Psikologi Sosial di program studi Psikologi di tanah air, riset-riset yang dilakukan di “Barat” adalah rujukan utama. Riset yang dilakukan peneliti tanah air dengan partisipan orang Indonesia selalu berada dalam posisi minor dalam kuantitas ketika membahas suatu topik pembelajaran. Hal ini juga berlanjut dalam penulis tugas akhir, seolah-olah mensitasi publikasi peneliti Indonesia, akan menurunkan kredibilitas argumen yang dibangun, terutama jika jurnal yang dirujuk berbahasa Indonesia
There’s no battle, coz we’ve already won! Peranan kebermaknaan aktivis pada aksi kolektif melalui identitas kelompok sebagai mediator dalam konteks aksi lingkungan
Authors: Jusfayana Yuthika , Hudiyana Joevarian
Published: August 2023

Aksi kolektif seperti demonstrasi dan protes adalah bagian dari proses demokrasi untuk menyampaikan aspirasi untuk mengubah keadaan yang lebih berkeadilan. Terdapat berbagai kerangka teoretis yang menjelaskan demonstrasi dan protes yang merupakan bagian dari aksi kolektif. Namun demikian, masih jarang yang membahas bagaimana aktivis yang terlibat dalam aksi tersebut memiliki motivasi berupa kebermaknaan dan keberhargaan. Teori quest for significance dapat menjelaskan proses kebermaknaan yang dialami aktivis melalui proses identifikasinya dengan kelompok. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membuktikan proses kebermaknaan membuat seseorang memiliki keinginan untuk melibatkan dirinya dalam suatu aksi kolektif peduli lingkungan (normatif maupun non normatif), via identifikasi kelompok.  Penelitian dilakukan secara survey pada WNI berusia 18 tahun keatas, didapatkan sebanyak 308 partisipan, 71.75% perempuan dan 28.25% laki-lak). Peneliti melakukan analisis pengaruh kebermaknaan pada identifikasi kelompok menunjukkan hasil yang signifikan yaitu b= 0.278, p<0.05. Namun pengaruh langsung kebermaknaan pada aksi kolektif tidak signifikan (b= 0.074, p= 0.315; b2=0.093, p= 0.121.),.  Lalu analisis mediasi membuktikan bahwa kebermaknaan via identifikasi kelompok pada aksi kolektif baik aksi damai maupun aksi radikal menunjukkan hasil  yang signifikan (m1 = 0.112, p < 0,05 ; m2 = 0,073, p < 0,05) sehingga hasil analisis menunjukkan model full mediation. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat proses kebermaknaan dalam identifikasi kelompok dan juga perluasan teori quest for significance yang bisa digunakan dalam konteks aksi damai.
Peran kepribadian dan lokus-kendali terhadap perilaku inovatif individual: Studi pada pegawai Ombudsman Republik Indonesia
Authors: Nurmala Sukma , Sarirah Thoyyibatus
Published: August 2023

Sebagai lembaga yang menampung pengaduan masyarakat akan administrasi dan pelayanan publik, Ombudsman Republik Indonesia (RI) menghadapi berbagai tantangan yang membutuhkan inovasi. Penelitian ini mengaji peran kepribadian (Big Five personality) dan lokus-kendali (locus of control) terhadap perilaku inovatif (individual innovative behavior) pada pegawai Ombudsman RI. Studi korelasional ini menunjukkan bahwa lokus-kendali internal (internal locus of control), dimensi kepribadian menyetujui (agreeableness) dan intelek (intellect) secara unik memprediksi perilaku inovatif individu. Pegawai yang memiliki tingkat lokus-internal, kecenderungan menyetujui dan intelek yang tinggi cenderung menunjukkan perilaku inovatif yang tinggi pula. Kesadaran-nurani (conscientiousness), stabilitas emosional (emotional stability), ekstraversi (extraversion), lokus kendali kuasa orang lain (power of others) dan lokus-kendali kebetulan (chance) tidak memprediksi perilaku inovatif. Kami membahas di bagian Diskusi bagaimana organisasi di Indonesia, dan Ombudsman RI secara khusus dapat meningkatkan perilaku inovatif karyawannya.
Selection and the direction of phenotypic evolution
Authors: Mallard François , Afonso Bruno , Teotónio Henrique
Published: August 2023

Predicting adaptive phenotypic evolution depends on invariable selection gradients and on the stability of the genetic covariances between the component traits of the multivariate phenotype. We describe the evolution of six traits of locomotion behavior and body size in the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansfor 50 generations of adaptation to a novel environment. We show that the direction of adaptive multivariate phenotypic evolution can be predicted from the ancestral selection differentials, particularly when the traits were measured in the new environment. Interestingly, the evolution of individual traits does not always occur in the direction of selection, nor are trait responses to selection always homogeneous among replicate populations. These observations are explained because the phenotypic dimension with most of the ancestral standing genetic variation only partially aligns with the phenotypic dimension under directional selection. These findings validate selection theory and suggest that the direction of multivariate adaptive phenotypic evolution is predictable for tens of generations.
Divergent regulation of KCNQ1/E1 by targeted recruitment of protein kinase A to distinct sites on the channel complex
Authors: Zou Xinle , Shanmugam Sri Karthika , Kanner Scott A , Sampson Kevin J , Kass Robert S , Colecraft Henry M
Published: August 2023

The slow delayed rectifier potassium current, IKs, conducted through pore-forming Q1 and auxiliary E1 ion channel complexes is important for human cardiac action potential repolarization. During exercise or fright, IKs is up-regulated by protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated Q1 phosphorylation to maintain heart rhythm and optimum cardiac performance. Sympathetic up-regulation of IKs requires recruitment of PKA holoenzyme (two regulatory – RI or RII – and two catalytic Cα subunits) to Q1 C-terminus by an A kinase anchoring protein (AKAP9). Mutations in Q1 or AKAP9 that abolish their functional interaction result in long QT syndrome type 1 and 11, respectively, which increases the risk of sudden cardiac death during exercise. Here, we investigated the utility of a targeted protein phosphorylation (TPP) approach to reconstitute PKA regulation of IKs in the absence of AKAP9. Targeted recruitment of endogenous Cα to E1-YFP using a GFP/YFP nanobody (nano) fused to RIIα enabled acute cAMP-mediated enhancement of IKs, reconstituting physiological regulation of the channel complex. By contrast, nano-mediated tethering of RIIα or Cα to Q1-YFP constitutively inhibited IKs by retaining the channel intracellularly in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi. Proteomic analysis revealed that distinct phosphorylation sites are modified by Cα targeted to Q1-YFP compared to free Cα. Thus, functional outcomes of synthetically recruited PKA on IKs regulation is critically dependent on the site of recruitment within the channel complex. The results reveal insights into divergent regulation of IKs by phosphorylation across different spatial and time scales, and suggest a TPP approach to develop new drugs to prevent exercise-induced sudden cardiac death.
Overburdened ferroptotic stress impairs tooth morphogenesis
Authors: Wang Haisheng , Wang Xiaofeng , Huang Liuyan , Wang Chenglin , Yu Fanyuan , Ye Ling
Published: August 2023

The role of regulated cell death in organ development, particularly the impact of non-apoptotic cell death, remains largely uncharted. Ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic cell death pathway known for its iron dependence and lethal lipid peroxidation, is currently being rigorously investigated for its pathological functions. The balance between ferroptotic stress (iron and iron-dependent lipid peroxidation) and ferroptosis supervising pathways (anti-lipid peroxidation systems) serves as the key mechanism regulating the activation of ferroptosis. Compared with other forms of regulated necrotic cell death, ferroptosis is critically related to the metabolism of lipid and iron which are also important in organ development. In our study, we examined the role of ferroptosis in organogenesis using an ex vivo tooth germ culture model, investigating the presence and impact of ferroptotic stress on tooth germ development. Our findings revealed that ferroptotic stress increased during tooth development, while the expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 (Gpx4), a crucial anti-lipid peroxidation enzyme, also escalated in dental epithelium/mesenchyme cells. The inhibition of ferroptosis was found to partially rescue erastin-impaired tooth morphogenesis. Our results suggest that while ferroptotic stress is present during tooth organogenesis, its effects are efficaciously controlled by the subsequent upregulation of Gpx4. Notably, an overabundance of ferroptotic stress, as induced by erastin, suppresses tooth morphogenesis.
Mouthparts of the bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) exhibit poor acuity for the detection of pesticides in nectar
Authors: Parkinson Rachel H , Scott Jennifer , Dorling Anna L , Jones Hannah , Haslam Martha , McDermott-Roberts Alex E , Wright Geraldine A
Published: August 2023

Bees are important pollinators of agricultural crops, but their populations are at risk when pesticides are used. One of the largest risks bees face is poisoning of floral nectar and pollen by insecticides. Studies of bee detection of neonicotinoids have reported contradictory evidence about whether bees can taste these pesticides in sucrose solutions and hence avoid them. Here, we use an assay for the detection of food aversion combined with single-sensillum electrophysiology to test whether the mouthparts of the buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) detect the presence of pesticides in a solution that mimicked the nectar of oilseed rape (Brassica napus). Bees did not avoid consuming solutions containing concentrations of imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, clothianidin, or sulfoxaflor spanning six orders of magnitude, even when these solutions contained lethal doses. Only extremely high concentrations of the pesticides altered spiking in gustatory neurons through a slight reduction in firing rate or change in the rate of adaptation. These data provide strong evidence that bumblebees cannot detect or avoid field-relevant concentrations of pesticides using information from their mouthparts. As bees rarely contact floral nectar with other body parts, we predict that they are at high risk of unwittingly consuming pesticides in the nectar of pesticide-treated crops.
Leucine alleviates cytokine storm syndrome by regulating macrophage polarization via the mTORC1/LXRα signaling pathway
Authors: Yan Hui , Liu Yao , Li Xipeng , Yu Bing , He Jun , Mao Xiangbing , Yu Jie , Huang Zhiqing , Luo Yuheng , Luo Junqiu , Wu Aimin , Chen Daiwen
Published: August 2023

Cytokine storms are associated with severe pathological damage and death in some diseases. Excessive activation of M1 macrophages and the subsequent secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines are a major cause of cytokine storms. Therefore, promoting the polarization of M2 macrophages to restore immune balance is a promising therapeutic strategy for treating cytokine storm syndrome (CSS). This study was aimed at investigating the potential protective effects of leucine on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced CSS in mice and exploring the underlying mechanisms. CSS was induced by LPS administration in mice, which were concurrently administered leucine orally. In vitro, bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs) were polarized to M1 and M2 phenotypes with LPS and interleukin-4 (IL-4), respectively, and treated with leucine. Leucine decreased mortality in mice treated with lethal doses of LPS. Specifically, leucine decreased M1 polarization and promoted M2 polarization, thus diminishing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and ameliorating CSS in mice. Further studies revealed that leucine-induced macrophage polarization through the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1)/liver X receptor α (LXRα) pathway, which synergistically enhanced the expression of the IL-4-induced M2 marker Arg1 and subsequent M2 polarization. In summary, this study revealed that leucine ameliorates CSS in LPS mice by promoting M2 polarization through the mTORC1/LXRα/Arg1 signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that a fundamental link between metabolism and immunity contributes to the resolution of inflammation and the repair of damaged tissues.
An open-source, high resolution, automated fluorescence microscope
Authors: Zehrer Ando C. , Martin-Villalba Ana , Diederich Benedict , Ewers Helge
Published: August 2023

Fluorescence microscopy is a fundamental tool in the life sciences, but the availability of sophisticated equipment required to yield high-quality, quantitative data is a major bottleneck in data production in many laboratories worldwide. This problem has long been recognized and the abundancy of low-cost electronics and the simplification of fabrication through 3D-printing have led to the emergence of open-source scientific hardware as a research field. Cost effective fluorescence microscopes can be assembled from cheaply mass-produced components, but lag behind commercial solutions in image quality. On the other hand, blueprints of sophisticated microscopes such as light-sheet or super-resolution systems, custom-assembled from high quality parts are available, but require a high level of expertise from the user.Here we combine the UC2 microscopy toolbox with high-quality components and integrated electronics and software to assemble an automated high-resolution fluorescence microscope. Using this microscope, we demonstrate high resolution fluorescence imaging for fixed and live samples. When operated inside an incubator, long-term live-cell imaging over several days was possible. Our microscope reaches single molecule sensitivity, and we performed single particle tracking and SMLM super-resolution microscopy experiments in cells. Our setup costs a fraction of its commercially available counterparts but still provides a maximum of capabilities and image quality. We thus provide a proof of concept that high quality scientific data can be generated by lay users with a low-budget system and open-source software. Our system can be used for routine imaging in laboratories that do not have the means to acquire commercial systems and through its affordability can serve as teaching material to students.
Small deviations in kinematics and body form dictate muscle performances in the finely tuned avian downstroke
Authors: Deetjen Marc E , Chin Diana D , Heers Ashley M , Tobalske Bret W , Lentink David
Published: August 2023

Avian takeoff requires peak pectoralis muscle power to generate sufficient aerodynamic force during the downstroke. Subsequently, the much smaller supracoracoideus recovers the wing during the upstroke. How the pectoralis work loop is tuned to power flight is unclear. We integrate wingbeat-resolved muscle, kinematic, and aerodynamic recordings in vivo with a new mathematical model to disentangle how the pectoralis muscle overcomes wing inertia and generates aerodynamic force during takeoff in doves. Doves reduce the angle of attack of their wing mid-downstroke to efficiently generate aerodynamic force, resulting in an aerodynamic power dip, that allows transferring excess pectoralis power into tensioning the supracoracoideus tendon to assist the upstroke—improving the pectoralis work loop efficiency simultaneously. Integrating extant bird data, our model shows how the pectoralis of birds with faster wingtip speed need to generate proportionally more power. Finally, birds with disproportionally larger wing inertia need to activate the pectoralis earlier to tune their downstroke.
WRNIP1 prevents transcription-associated genomic instability
Authors: Valenzisi Pasquale , Marabitti Veronica , Pichierri Pietro , Franchitto Annapaola
Published: August 2023

R-loops are non-canonical DNA structures that form during transcription and play diverse roles in various physiological processes. Disruption of R-loop homeostasis can lead to genomic instability and replication impairment, contributing to several human diseases, including cancer. Although the molecular mechanisms that protect cells against such events are not fully understood, recent research has identified fork protection factors and DNA damage response proteins as regulators of R-loop dynamics. In this study, we identify the Werner helicase-interacting protein 1 (WRNIP1) as a novel factor that counteracts transcription-associated DNA damage upon replication perturbation. Loss of WRNIP1 leads to R-loop accumulation, resulting in collisions between the replisome and transcription machinery. We observe co-localization of WRNIP1 with transcription/replication complexes and R-loops after replication perturbation, suggesting its involvement in resolving transcription-replication conflicts. Moreover, WRNIP1-deficient cells show impaired replication restart from transcription-induced fork stalling. Notably, transcription inhibition and RNase H1 overexpression rescue all the defects caused by loss of WRNIP1. Importantly, our findings highlight the critical role of WRNIP1 ubiquitin-binding zinc finger (UBZ) domain in preventing pathological persistence of R-loops and limiting DNA damage, thereby safeguarding genome integrity.
Chromatin and gene expression changes during female Drosophila germline stem cell development illuminate the biology of highly potent stem cells
Authors: Pang Liang-Yu , DeLuca Steven , Zhu Haolong , Urban John M , Spradling Allan C
Published: August 2023

Highly potent animal stem cells either self renew or launch complex differentiation programs, using mechanisms that are only partly understood. Drosophila female germline stem cells (GSCs) perpetuate without change over evolutionary time and generate cystoblast daughters that develop into nurse cells and oocytes. Cystoblasts initiate differentiation by generating a transient syncytial state, the germline cyst, and by increasing pericentromeric H3K9me3 modification, actions likely to suppress transposable element activity. Relatively open GSC chromatin is further restricted by Polycomb repression of testis or somatic cell-expressed genes briefly active in early female germ cells. Subsequently, Neijre/CBP and Myc help upregulate growth and reprogram GSC metabolism by altering mitochondrial transmembrane transport, gluconeogenesis, and other processes. In all these respects GSC differentiation resembles development of the totipotent zygote. We propose that the totipotent stem cell state was shaped by the need to resist transposon activity over evolutionary timescales.
Cardiac and Muscular Pathology on Autopsy in a Man with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Choi Eugene , Na Joo-Young , Kim Kyung Ryoul , Heo Jin-Haeng , Park Young-Il
Published: August 2023

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a degenerative muscle disease characterized by a progressive decline in muscular function, with cardiomyopathy in the later stages. We report the autopsy findings of a 29-year-old man with DMD. He had been stable with the assistance of mechanical ventilation until he was found unconscious, without known cause. External examination confirmed generalized muscular atrophy and contracture consistent with his clinical history. Histopathology revealed varying degrees of fibrofatty changes in the muscles, with the calf muscles being the most extensively affected, followed by the diaphragm and heart. The cardiac muscle showed the least involvement and the pathology was confined to the left ventricular wall and the interventricular septum, exhibiting a unique morphology of fibrosis resembling stretched springs. The cause of death was attributed to cardiac failure due to DMD progression. This case highlights the clinical course of DMD, emphasizing the need for thorough examination of both skeletal and non-skeletal muscles, including the cardiac muscles, to obtain a better understanding of the disease.
Three Cases of Suicide Using Dry Ice
Authors: Kim Dae Yoil , Lee SangHan , Kim Young Mi , Song Min Seon , Kim Munju , Kim Jung Mok
Published: August 2023

Dry ice is a solid form of carbon dioxide and is commonly used in everyday life to keep food or medicine cold. In South Korea, there have been rare cases of carbon dioxide asphyxiation and poisoning from dry ice, though there have been no reports of its use in suicide. In the first case, a man was found lying down dead and left a large amount of dry ice in his room. In the second case, a man died by tying a belt around his neck after placing a plastic bag filled with dry ice over his head. The third death was by placing a large amount of dry ice in a large rubber basin in his room and filling it with water. Dry ice itself is mostly harmless, but if it is not handled carefully in a confined space, it can cause accidents due to accidental oxygen deprivation. Its easy availability in everyday life also means it is likely to be misused for suicidal purposes. Investigators should consider the potential for asphyxiation or poisoning incidents if they discover dry ice or its packaging at the forensic scene.
Fat Embolism Syndrome after Femoral Fracture Fixation due to Pedestrian Injury
Authors: Jang Yu Ra , Noh Sang Jae , Heo Yeon Moo , Lee Ho
Published: August 2023

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare but serious complication that primarily occurs in patients with long bone fractures. Herein, we report a case of sudden death due to FES, which was later confirmed by autopsy. The clinical course and pathological findings of the case are also presented. A 79-year-old male pedestrian was struck by a car while crossing a crosswalk, and due to the impact, he flew 4.5 meters away. He was admitted to the emergency room and diagnosed with an intertrochanteric fracture of the right femur. Upon admission, he had clear consciousness and normal vital signs. The patient died 27 hours after trauma during surgery for a right femur fracture. Histological examination revealed fat droplets in lung tissue. The diagnosis of FES was confirmed based on clinical and histological findings.
A Case Report of Pediatric Mechanical Asphyxia by a Daycare Center Teacher: Implications for Forensic Pathologists from the Perspectives of the Judicial Verdicts
Authors: Park Sohyung , Ha Hongil , Park Ji Hye , Baek Kanghyun , Lee Kyung-Mi
Published: August 2023

This study highlights a new case of an infant death caused by mechanical asphyxia, who was found dead after being wrapped and pressed by a daycare center teacher with the body and beddings. Moreover, we present a comparative review of four similar previously reported cases and the implications for forensic pathologists in the management of such cases from the perspectives of judicial verdicts of the cases. The previous report commented that the four cases could be considered as overlaying as a type of accidental asphyxia. However, a contextual comprehensive review including the whole scenarios of the cases and negative postmortem findings concluded that all the cases were explicitly different from overlaying cases. Furthermore, we followed up the judicial processes and verdicts in all five cases, including the present case and the four previously reported cases. In the four cases, the defendants were incarcerated for violation of ‘Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Child Abuse Crimes.’ The ruling trend revealed that the prison sentence durations had been prolonged from 4 to 19 years. Therefore, for a pediatric death suspecting mechanical asphyxia involving a daycare center, contextual comprehensive approach is essential to determine the cause of death and to provide appropriate medicolegal interpretation.
The effectiveness of structured educational programs for hemodialysis patients in Korea: an integrated literature review
Authors: Chae Young Ran , Choi Jeong-Joo , Kim Min Sub
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to provide evidence for future research by analyzing the contents, delivery methods, and educational effects of educational programs for hemodialysis patients. Methods: A literature review was conducted in the following order: problem identification, literature search and data collection, data evaluation, data analysis, and data presentation. In total, 936 documents were retrieved from the search, and 24 documents were finally included in this study. Results: The contents of the educational programs were comprehensive hemodialysis-related knowledge education in seven studies, exercise-related education in 10 studies, diet-related education in four studies, drug-related education in one study, and complex education in two studies. The delivery methods were pamphlets in six studies, audio-visual materials in four studies, direct guidance by researchers in six studies, and multiple methods in seven studies. The effects of the educational program were divided into physical indicators, emotional indicators, and knowledge and performance related to hemodialysis. Sixteen out of 20 articles using physical indicators showed significant outcomes, and 10 out of 12 articles using emotional indicators derived positive results. Hemodialysis-related knowledge and performance were measured in eight and 10 studies, respectively, and meaningful results were found in six studies for knowledge and seven studies for performance. Conclusion: Future research will require the development of a systematic and standardized educational program with comprehensive content that can be provided to all hemodialysis patients, as well as a highly accessible education delivery method to enhance the effectiveness of education.
Urine based near-infrared spectroscopy analysis reveals a noninvasive and convenient diagnosis method for cancers: a pilot study
Authors: Zhu Jing , Zhang Siyu , Wang Ruting , Fang Ruhua , Lei Lan , Zheng Ji , Chen Zhongjian
Published: August 2023

Background

The challenges in cancer diagnosis underline the need for continued research and development of new diagnostic tools and methods. This study aims to explore an effective, noninvasive, and convenient diagnostic tool using urine based near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) analysis combined with machine learning algorithm.

Methods

Urine samples were collected from a total of 327 participants, including 181 cancer cases and 146 healthy controls. These participants were randomly spit into train set (n = 218) and test set (n = 109). NIRS analysis (4,000 ∼10,000 cm−1) was performed for each sample in both train and test sets. Five pretreatment methods, including Savitzky-Golay (SG) smoothing, multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), baseline removal (BSL) with fitting polynomials to be used as baselines, the first derivative (DERIV1), and the second derivative (DERIV2), and combination with “scaling” and “center”, were investigated. Then partial least-squares (PLS) and linear support-vector machine (SVM) classification models were established, and prediction performance was evaluated in test set.

Results

NIRS had greatly overlapping in peaks, and PCA analysis failed in separation between cancers and healthy controls. In modeling with urine based NIRS data, PLS model showed its highest prediction accuracy of 0.780, with DERIV2, “scaling” and “center” pretreatment, while linear SVM displayed its best prediction accuracy of 0.844, with raw NIRS. With optimization in SVM, the prediction accuracy could improve to 0.862, when the top 262 features were involved as variables.

Discussion

This pilot study combining urine based NIRS analysis and machine learning is effective and convenient that might facilitate in cancer diagnosis, encouraging further evaluation with a large-size multi-center study.
Aspectos psicosociales relativos a la salud mental en la vinculación con servicios públicos de salud: una perspectiva desde los/as usuarios/as
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Psicología, Chia Vicuña Camila
Published: August 2023

Para contribuir al mejoramiento de programas psicosociales de intervención en pobreza, así como para potenciar la vinculación a servicios públicos de salud mental, que corresponden a un eje del trabajo en red orientado al bienestar de las personas usuarias de estos programas, es importante conocer cuáles son los aspectos psicosociales relativos a la salud mental que inciden en que estas se aproximen a tales servicios. Esto pues uno de los principales desafíos se vincula a la necesidad de superar las creencias de las personas, las que operan como barrera para su participación efectiva, y con esto aportar para que puedan involucrarse en sus tratamientos. Así, el objetivo de este trabajo de grado fue caracterizar dichos aspectos, desde las apreciaciones de usuarios/as del Programa Familias. La metodología fue cualitativa, para profundizar en procesos subjetivos y enfocados en comprender dichos fenómenos desde la apreciación de usuarios/as, a partir de la realización de entrevistas semiestructuradas individuales, analizadas siguiendo la Teoría Fundamentada. Se identificaron creencias y experiencias personales, así como aspectos institucionales y contextuales relativos a la salud mental, en conjunto con procesos de vinculación con dichos servicios. Finalmente, se reconoce la importancia de la valoración que tienen las participantes respecto a su relación con interventores/as claves de la salud pública, siendo crucial para acceder a una atención adecuada y mejorar la salud mental.
Relación entre las experiencias adversas y benevolentes tempranas con la sintomatología depresiva de mujeres y hombres
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Escuela de Psicología, Candia Roa Alicia Belén
Published: August 2023

Las experiencias adversas en la niñez (ACEs) de acuerdo con Felitti y colaboradores, (1998), son consideradas un factor de riesgo importante. Dado que, implica una elevada exposición a eventos estresantes vivenciados en la temprana infancia, y que trae como consecuencia efectos en la salud mental de la población adulta, siendo la depresión, una de las presentaciones de psicopatología clínica con mayor prevalencia (Merry, McDowell, Hetrick, Bir & Muller, 2004). Frente a este escenario, es que también surgen factores protectores denominadas experiencias benevolentes en la infancia (BCEs) de Narayan y su equipo (2018) a nivel intra y extra familiar, que ponen el acento en los factores protectores a temprana infancia. El objetivo del presente trabajo de grado es describir y analizar la relación que tienen las experiencias adversas tempranas y las experiencias benevolentes tempranas con la sintomatología depresiva de adultos según su sexo. Para la metodología se ocupan los datos secundarios del Piloto de la Encuesta Nacional de Adversidad y Abuso sexual en la niñez (2020), realizado por el Centro CUIDA UC, la cual corresponde a una investigación cuantitativa, de diseño transversal no experimental. La encuesta fue aplicada a una muestra de 2101 participantes entre los 18 a 65 años. Los instrumentos usados en la recolección de información fueron los módulos de clasificación personal, Experiencias Adversas en la Niñez, abuso sexual, Experiencias positivas tempranas y el cuestionario de Adversidades tardías dónde se ocuparon los datos del cuestionario para la depresión (PHQ9). Se construye el puntaje total de las variables ACEs y BCE, a partir de la sumatoria de los puntajes binarios de cada ítem, para analizar las relaciones y su efecto en la sintomatología depresiva. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizan correlaciones de Spearman. Los resultados, revelan una alta prevalencia de las ACEs, habiendo diferencias en la muestra según sexo, puesto a que se observa en los hombres un mayor reporte de violencia comunitaria y en las mujeres de negligencia emocional. En relación con los tipos de BCE se observan algunas diferencias en la muestra en mujeres y hombres, pues hay un mayor reporte por parte de los hombres. Respecto a la presencia de síntomas depresivos se encuentra más presente en mujeres que en hombres. En está misma línea, se evidencia una asociación entre nivel educativo y depresión, donde mientras más bajo sea el nivel de educación alcanzado, se reportan mayores niveles de depresión. En está línea, se revela que existen correlaciones positivas y significativas entre la asociación de las ACEs y la sintomatología depresiva. Por último, se observan correlaciones negativas y significativas entre las BCE intra y extra familiares y la presencia de sintomatología depresiva.
Adoption Behavior among Farmers of Tamil Nadu towards District Agro-meteorology Unit (DAMU) Agro Advisory Services in Agriculture and Allied Sectors
Authors: A. Kanimolzhi , Hanif Noorjehan A. K. A. , N. Sriram , N. K. Sathyamoorthy , R. Gangai Selvi
Published: August 2023

An ex post facto research was undertaken during 2022 to assess farmers' adoption of District Agro-Meteorology Unit (DAMU) Agro Advisory Services (AAS) in Cuddalore, Ramnad, and Aruppukottai districts of Tamil Nadu with sample size of 180. Data was collected using a standardized questionnaire. DAMU offers specialized weather information to support local agricultural activities. The study revealed that 70 per cent of farmers fall into the "Medium" adoption category adopting weather-based timing for planting, harvesting, and irrigation. The respondents fully adopt the practice of scheduling sowing time using weather-based farm advisories (77.78%), 62.22 per cent adopt the practice of scheduling harvesting operations, illustrating a substantial majority using this approach to enhance efficiency and yield during crop harvesting and 56.67 per cent fully adopt the practice of scheduling supplementary irrigation. The farmers attributes viz., education status, annual income, extension agency contact, extension participation, mass media participation, information seeking behaviour, knowledge level and perception had shown a positive and significant correlation with the dependent variable adoption of DAMU services at one per cent level of significance. The study revealed that traits like media engagement, scientific thinking and information seeking are closely tied to DAMU AAS adoption, along with extension involvement, knowledge, and perception, contributing to a notable 68.30% variance in adoption.
Atherosclerotic Coronary Plaque Regression and Risk of Adverse Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Iatan Iulia , Guan Meijiao , Humphries Karin H. , Yeoh Eunice , Mancini G. B. John
Published: August 2023

Importance

The association between changes in atherosclerotic plaque induced by lipid-lowering therapies (LLTs) and reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) remains controversial.

Objective

To evaluate the association between coronary plaque regression assessed by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and MACEs.

Data Sources

A comprehensive, systematic search of publications in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science was performed.

Study Selection

Clinical prospective studies of LLTs reporting change in percent atheroma volume (PAV) assessed by IVUS and describing MACE components were selected.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Reporting was performed in compliance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The association between mean change in PAV and MACEs was analyzed by meta-regression using mixed-effects, 2-level binomial logistic regression models, unadjusted and adjusted for clinical covariates, including mean age, baseline PAV, baseline low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, and study duration.

Main Outcome and Measures

Mean PAV change and MACE in intervention and comparator arms were assessed in an updated systematic review and meta-regression analysis of IVUS trials of LLTs that also reported MACEs.

Results

This meta-analysis included 23 studies published between July 2001 and July 2022, including 7407 patients and trial durations ranging from 11 to 104 weeks. Mean (SD) patient age ranged from 55.8 (9.8) to 70.2 (7.6) years, and the number of male patients from 245 of 507 (48.3%) to 24 of 26 (92.3%). Change in PAV across 46 study arms ranged from −5.6% to 3.1%. The number of MACEs ranged from 0 to 72 per study arm (17 groups [37%] reported no events, 9 [20%] reported 1-2 events, and 20 [43%] reported ≥3 events). In unadjusted analysis, a 1% decrease in mean PAV was associated with 17% reduced odds of MACEs (unadjusted OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.71-0.98; P = .03), and with a 14% reduction in MACEs in adjusted analysis (adjusted OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.75-1.00; P = .050). Further adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors showed a 19% reduced risk (adjusted OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.68-0.96; P = .01) per 1% decrease in PAV. A 1% reduction of PAV change between intervention and comparator arms within studies was also associated with a significant 25% reduction in MACEs (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.56-1.00; P = .046).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this meta-analysis, regression of atherosclerotic plaque by 1% was associated with a 25% reduction in the odds of MACEs. These findings suggest that change in PAV could be a surrogate marker for MACEs, but given the heterogeneity in the outcomes, additional data are needed.
Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Patients With Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Chiesa Fuxench Zelma C. , Wan Joy , Wang Sonia , Syed Maha N. , Shin Daniel B. , Abuabara Katrina , Gelfand Joel M.
Published: August 2023

Importance

Data on the association between atopic dermatitis (AD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are inconsistent. Few studies have examined the association of AD or AD severity with risk of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn disease (CD) separately.

Objectives

To examine the risk of new-onset IBD, UC, and CD in children and adults with AD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study assessed patients with AD matched with up to 5 controls on age, practice, and index date. Treatment exposure was used as a proxy for AD severity. Data were retrieved from The Health Improvement Network, a UK electronic medical record database, for January 1, 1994, to February 28, 2015. Data analysis was performed from January 8, 2020, to June 30, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes of interest were incident IBD, UC, and CD. Logistic regression was used to examine the risk for each outcome in children and adults with AD compared with controls.

Results

A total of 1 809 029 pediatric controls were matched to 409 431 children with AD (93.2% mild, 5.5% moderate, and 1.3% severe). The pediatric cohort ranged in median age from 4 to 5 years (overall range, 1-10 years), was predominantly male (936 750 [51.8%] controls, 196 996 [51.6%] with mild AD, 11 379 [50.7%] with moderate AD, and 2985 [56.1%] with severe AD), and with similar socioeconomic status. A total of 2 678 888 adult controls were matched to 625 083 adults with AD (65.7% mild, 31.4% moderate, and 2.9% severe). The adult cohort ranged in median age from 45 to 50 years (overall range, 30-68 years) and was predominantly female (1 445 589 [54.0%] controls, 256 071 [62.3%] with mild AD, 109 404 [55.8%] with moderate AD, and 10 736 [59.3%] with severe AD). In fully adjusted models, children with AD had a 44% increased risk of IBD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.44; 95% CI, 1.31-1.58) and a 74% increased risk of CD (HR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.54-1.97), which increased with worsening AD; however, they did not have increased risk of UC (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.94-1.27) except for those with severe AD (HR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.02-2.67). Adults with AD had a 34% (HR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.27-1.40) increased risk of IBD, a 36% (HR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.26-1.47) increased risk of CB, and a 32% (HR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.24-1.41) increased risk of UC, with risk increasing with worsening AD.

Conclusion and Relevance

In this cohort study, children and adults with AD had an increased risk of IBD, with risk varying by age, AD severity, and IBD subtype. These findings provide new insights into the association between AD and IBD. Clinicians should be aware of these risks, particularly when selecting systemic treatments for AD in patients who may have coincident gastrointestinal symptoms.