bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Terpaan Pesan Kode Promo GrabFood terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan pada Mahasiswa Kota Surabaya
Authors: Putri Nadia , Huda Anam Miftakhul
Published: September 2024

Persaingan bisnis tranportasi berbasis online semakin berkembang di Indonesia sehingga perusahaan harus memperhatikan strategi komunikasi pemasarannya agar tidak kalah bersaing dengan kompetitor. Pentingnya mempertahankan loyalitas pelanggan bagi sebuah perusahaan akan meningkatkan keuntungan 25% hingga 58%. Perusahaan transportasi online Grab yang telah berkembang di Indonesia sejak tahun 2014 menjadi objek yang akan diteliti pada penelitian ini. Grab telah mengembangkan bisnisnya di seluruh wilayah Indonesia hingga saat ini menjadi aplikasi transportasi online kedua yang memiliki pengguna terbanyak setelah Gojek. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pesan kode promo yang dilakukan oleh Grab melalui terpaan medianya terhadap loyalitas pelanggan. Penelitian ini  menggunakan penelitian kuantitatif eksplanatif untuk menguji variabel terpaan pesan kode promo dan loyalitas pelanggan. Peneliti menggunakan populasi mahasiswa kota Surabaya sebanyak 272.846 orang dengan teknik pengambilan sampel berupa non probability sampling untuk mengambil data sebanyak 348 responden. Metode yang digunakan adalah survey maka penelitian dilakukan dengan menyebarkan kuesioner online berupa Google Form yang diukur dengan skala Likert. Pengembangan instrumen dilakukan uji validitas dan uji reliabilitas dengan 30 responden untuk menguji kelayakan instrumen untuk penelitian. Dalam menganalisis data penelitian untuk menguji hipotesis penelitian bahwa terdapat pengaruh positif terpaan pesan kode promo Grab terhadap loyalitas pelanggan maka teknik analisis yang dilakukan adalah uji korelasi Spearman Rank. Ditemukan koefisien korelasinya adalah 0,54 yang termasuk kategori hubungan yang sedang. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa durasi pelanggan dalam membaca pesan kode promo GrabFood adalah rendah, intensitas pelanggan dalam memahami informasi adalah tinggi, dan frekuensi pelanggan dalam menerima informasi dan membuka aplikasi adalah tinggi. Koefisien korelasi dilakukan pengujian signifikansinya dengan uji t dan uji z menghasilkan pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan. Penelitian ini menghasilkan hipotesis penelitian diterima bahwa terdapat pengaruh positif terpaan pesan kode promo Grab terhadap loyalitas pelanggan. Berdasarkan nilai koefisien determinasi yang ditemukan adalah 0,30 maka disimpulkan bahwa 30% loyalitas pelanggan dipengaruhi oleh terpaan pesan kode promo Grab dan 70% dipengaruhi oleh faktor-faktor lain.
THE COMMODIFICATION OF JOURNALISTS AT RADAR BEKASI NEWSPAPER
Authors: Miftakhudin Miftakhudin
Published: September 2024

ABSTRAK / ABSTRACT
Penelitian ini berusaha menjelaskan proses komodifikasi pekerja (wartawan) di Koran Radar Bekasi. Dalam penelitian ini, peneliti mengembangkan kerangka pemikiran teori ekonomi politik media yang pintu masuk pertamanya adalah komodifikasi. Hasil penelitian ini menemukan bahwa telah terjadi komodifikasi pekerja terhadap wartawan di Koran Radar Bekasi. Wartawan yang seharusnya mencari, mengumpulkan dan mengolah berita untuk disebarkan ke khalayak, namun di berdayagunakan oleh perusahaan untuk mencari iklan. Transformasi wartawan koran Radar Bekasi  yakni melalui Separate, Concentrate, Recontitute. Dalam menjalankan tugasnya, wartawan Koran Radar Bekasi juga berfungsi sebagai fasilitator, penjual koran, pelobi, dan agen iklan.
 
This research attempts to explain the commodification process of workers (reporters) in Radar Bekasi Newspaper. In this study, researchers developed a framework for the theory of media political economy whose first entrance was commodification. The results of this study found that there had been commodification of workers against journalists at Radar Bekasi Newspaper. Journalists who are supposed to search, collect and process news to be distributed to the public, but are utilized by the company to look for advertisements. Transformation of Radar Bekasi newspaper reporters through Separate, Concentrate, Recontitute. In carrying out its duties, Koran Radar Bekasi journalists also function as facilitators, newspaper sellers, lobbyists, advertising agents and promotional brokers.
Transitivity Analysis of Emily Dickinson’s Poem Entitled “I Cannot Live with You”
Authors: Amiqi Maftuch Fahman Al , Sunardi Sunardi
Published: September 2024

This research aims to identify the types of processes, related participants, circumstances, and the field of discourse in Emily Dickinson’s poem entitled “I Cannot Live with You”. The method used is a descriptive qualitative method with the Halliday theory approach on Transitivity Process. The analysis discovered 7 types of transitivity processes and 57 participants, with the dominant types of processes are Material and Relational:Attributive with 12 processes (33.33%). Correspondingly, the most frequent participants were related to the Relational:Attributive Process, particularly the Carrier and Attribute which appeared 12 times (21.05%). Additionally, 4 types of circumstances were identified, totaling 16 instances, with the Circumstance of Accompaniment being the most common with 6 occurrences (40%). The field of discourse in Emily Dickinson’s poem entitled “I Cannot Live with You” is to tell that love cannot last forever.
Translation Analysis of the Article in National Geographic Magazine Entitled “The End of Trash” by Robert Kunzig, 2020 Edition
Authors: Awali Dafa Maora , Larassati Anisa
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to identify the translation techniques and quality of the article "The End of Trash” from the 2020 edition of National Geographic Magazine. The data comprises sentences from three subchapters Food, Clothes, and Metal in both English and Indonesian. This research used a descriptive qualitative method to analyze data. The study identifies translation techniques based on Molina and Albir's (2002) theory and evaluates translation quality according to Nababan's (2012) framework. The analysis reveales 14 translation techniques, Established Equivalent (34.9%), Reduction (17.8%), Literal Translation (8.3%), Borrowing (6.9%), Amplification (6.6%), Discursive Creation (5.5%), Transposition (4.2%), Modulation (4.2%), Adaptation (3.1%), Calque (3%), Particularization (3%), Linguistic Compression (1%), Generalization and Linguistic Amplification at (0.6%). The quality assessment indicates a high level of accuracy, with 80.9% of the translations classified as accurate, 78.5% considered acceptable, and 80.1% readable. The study suggests that future research could explore other editions of National Geographic to provide a broader perspective on translation practices.
Quantum theology, or: “Theologie als strenge Wissenschaft”
Authors: Penchev Vasil
Published: September 2024

The main idea consists in researching the existence of certain characteristics of nature similar to human reasonability and purposeful actions, originating and rigorously inferable from the postulates of quantum mechanics as well as from those of special and general relativity. The pathway of the “free-will theorems” proved by Conway and Kochen in 2006 and 2009 is followed and pioneered further. Those natural reasonability and teleology are identified as a special subject called “God” and studyable by “quantum theology”, a scientific counterpart of classical theology as far as the latter endeavors to justify rationally God postulated by religion, but meaning in the present study. The suggested “quantum theology” is situated in the historical opposition and conflict of science and religion in Modernity and its reflection in Heidegger’s conception of “ontotheology”. The conception of “ontomathematics” introduced in previous papers to unite and unify physics, mathematics, and philosophy is reinterpreted in the present context to be conservatively generalized in a way to include “quantum theology”. Two conceptions, “locality” and “nonlocality”, originating initially from physics and especially, from theory of entanglement and quantum information, are also generalized ontomathematically, and thus in relation to the newly introduced “quantum theology”. The “quantum theology” subject of “God” is juxtaposed with God of religion and billions of believers all over the world. Husserl’s conception of “philosophy as a rigorous science” is considered to be generalized now to theology as quantum theology, particularly by the phenomenon of “God”, or by an “epoché” to whether God exists or not.
Advances in melt electrowriting for cardiovascular applications
Authors: Mueller Kilian Maria Arthur , Mansi Salma , De-Juan-Pardo Elena M. , Mela Petra
Published: September 2024

Melt electrowriting (MEW) is an electric-field-assisted additive biofabrication technique that has brought significant advancements to bioinspired scaffold design for soft tissue engineering and beyond. Owing to its targeted microfiber placement, MEW has become a powerful platform technology for the fabrication of in vitro disease models up to functional biohybrid constructs that are investigated in vivo to reach clinical translation soon. This work provides a concise overview of this rapidly evolving field by highlighting the key contributions of MEW to cardiovascular tissue engineering. Specifically, we i) pinpoint the methods to introduce microvascular networks in thick 3D constructs benefitting from (sacrificial) MEW microfibers, ii) report MEW-based concepts for small-diameter vascular grafts and stents, iii) showcase how contracting cardiac tissues can profit from the tunable structure–property relationship of MEW scaffolds, and iv) address how complete regenerative heart valves can be built on complex fiber scaffold architectures that recapitulate J-shaped tensile properties and tissue heterogeneity. Lastly, we touch on novel biomaterial advancements and discuss the technological challenges of MEW to unlock the full potential of this transformative technology.
Deep learning enabled label-free microfluidic droplet classification for single cell functional assays
Authors: Vanhoucke Thibault , Perima Angga , Zolfanelli Lorenzo , Bruhns Pierre , Broketa Matteo
Published: September 2024

Droplet-based microfluidics techniques coupled to microscopy allow for the characterization of cells at the single-cell scale. However, such techniques generate substantial amounts of data and microscopy images that must be analyzed. Droplets on these images usually need to be classified depending on the number of cells they contain. This verification, when visually carried out by the experimenter image-per-image, is time-consuming and impractical for analysis of many assays or when an assay yields many putative droplets of interest. Machine learning models have already been developed to classify cell-containing droplets within microscopy images, but not in the context of assays in which non-cellular structures are present inside the droplet in addition to cells. Here we develop a deep learning model using the neural network ResNet-50 that can be applied to functional droplet-based microfluidic assays to classify droplets according to the number of cells they contain with >90% accuracy in a very short time. This model performs high accuracy classification of droplets containing both cells with non-cellular structures and cells alone and can accommodate several different cell types, for generalization to a broader array of droplet-based microfluidics applications.
A new microscopy pipeline for studying the initial stages of nuclear and micronuclear rupture and repair
Authors: Di Bona Melody , Bakhoum Samuel F.
Published: September 2024

Nuclear envelope repair is a fundamental cellular response to stress, especially for cells experiencing frequent nuclear ruptures, such as cancer cells. Moreover, for chromosomally unstable cancer cells, characterized by the presence of micronuclei, the irreversible rupture of these structures constitutes a fundamental step toward cancer progression and therapy resistance. For these reasons, the study of nuclear envelope rupture and repair is of paramount importance. Nonetheless, due to the constraint imposed by the stochastic nature of rupture events, a precise characterization of the initial stage of nuclear repair remains elusive. In this study, we overcame this limitation by developing a new imaging pipeline that deterministically induces rupture while simultaneously imaging fluorescently tagged repair proteins. We provide a detailed step-by-step protocol to implement this method on any confocal microscope and applied it to study the major nuclear repair protein, barrier-to-autointegration factor (BAF). As a proof of principle, we demonstrated two different downstream analysis methods and showed how BAF is differentially recruited at sites of primary and micronuclear rupture. Additionally, we applied this method to study the recruitment at primary nuclei of the inner nuclear membrane protein LEM-domain 2 (LEMD2) and Charged Multivesicular Protein 7 (CHMP7), the scaffolding protein of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport III (ESCRT-III) membrane remodeling complex. The CHMP7-LEMD2 binding is the fundamental step allowing the recruitment of ESCRT-III, which represents the other major nuclear repair mechanism. This demonstrates the method’s applicability for investigating protein dynamics at sites of nuclear and micronuclear envelope rupture and paves the way to more time-resolved studies of nuclear envelope repair.
Recent advancement of novel marine fungi derived secondary metabolite fibrinolytic compound FGFC in biomedical applications: a review
Authors: Jeevithan Lakshmi , Diao Xiaozhen , Hu Jiudong , Elango Jeevithan , Wu Wenhui , Mate Sanchez de Val Jose Eduardo , Rajendran Saravanan , Sundaram Thanigaivel , Rajamani Sekar Suresh Kumar
Published: September 2024

For several decades, products derived from marine natural sources (PMN) have been widely identified for several therapeutic applications due to their rich sources of bioactive sub-stances, unique chemical diversity, biocompatibility and excellent biological activity. For the past 15 years, our research team explored several PMNs, especially fungi fibrinolytic compounds (FGFCs). FGFC is an isoindolone alkaloid derived from marine fungi, also known as staplabin analogs or Stachybotrys microspora triprenyl phenol (SMTP). For instance, our previous studies explored different types of FGFCs such as FGFC 1, 2, 3 and 4 from the marine fungi Stachybotrys longispora FG216 derived metabolites. The derivatives of FGFC are potentially employed in several disease treatments, mainly for stroke, cancer, ischemia, acute kidney injury, inflammation, cerebral infarction, thrombolysis and hemorrhagic activities, etc. Due to the increasing use of FGFCs in pharmaceutical and biomedical applications, it is important to understand the fundamental signaling concept of FGFCs. Hence, for the first time, this review collectively summarizes the background, types, mode of action and biological applications of FGFCs and their current endeavors for future therapies.
Investigation on the mechanisms of carbapenem resistance among the non-carbapenemase-producing carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Lee Yee Qing , Sri La Sri Ponnampalavanar Sasheela , Wong Jia Haw , Kong Zhi Xian , Ngoi Soo Tein , Karunakaran Rina , Lau Min Yi , Abdul Jabar Kartini , Teh Cindy Shuan Ju
Published: September 2024

Background

In Malaysia, an increase in non-carbapenemase-producing carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (NC-CRKP) has been observed over the years. Previously, four NC-CRKP with increased susceptibility to ciprofloxacin in the presence of phenylalanine-arginine β-naphthylamide (PAβN) were identified. However, no contribution of the PAβN-inhibited efflux pump to carbapenem resistance was observed. All four NC-CRKP harboured non-carbapenemase β-lactamase, with two also exhibiting porin loss. In this study, we further investigated the genomic features and resistance mechanisms of these four isolates.

Methods

All four NC-CRKP were subjected to whole-genome sequencing, followed by comparative genomic and phylogenetic analyses.

Results

Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) analysis divided the four NC-CRKP into different sequence types: ST392, ST45, ST14, and ST5947. Neither major nor rare carbapenemase genes were detected. Given the presence of non-carbapenemase β-lactamase in all isolates, we further investigated the potential mechanisms of resistance by identifying related chromosomal mutations. Deletion mutation was detected in the cation efflux system protein CusF. Insertion mutation was identified in the nickel/cobalt efflux protein RcnA. Missense mutation of ompK36 porin was detected in two isolates, while the loss of ompK36 porin was observed in another two isolates.

Conclusions

This study revealed that NC-CRKP may confer carbapenem resistance through a combination of non-carbapenemase β-lactamase and potential chromosomal mutations including missense mutation or loss of ompK36 porin and/or a frameshift missense mutation in efflux pump systems, such as cation efflux system protein CusF and nickel/cobalt efflux protein RcnA. Our findings highlighted the significance of implementing whole-genome sequencing into clinical practice to promote the surveillance of carbapenem resistance mechanisms among NC-CRKP.
Precise location of three novel linear epitopes using the generated monoclonal antibodies against the Knob domain of FAdV-4 surface structural protein, fiber1
Authors: Chai Yongxiao , Jin Qianyue , Zhu Rongfang , Guo Zhenhua , Lu Qingxia , Chai Shujun , Xing Yunrui , Han Lu , Xing Guangxu , Zhang Gaiping
Published: September 2024

Background

Fowl adenovirus serotype 4 (FAdV-4) is the main pathogen of hepatitis-hydropericardium syndrome (HHS), which brings huge economic losses to the poultry industry worldwide. Fiber-1 protein plays an important role in viral infection and pathogenesis by binding directly to cellular receptors of FAdV-4. In particular, the knob domain of fiber-1 protein has been reported to induce the production of neutralizing antibodies and arouse protection against the lethal challenge of chickens with FAdV-4.

Methods

The fiber-1 knob (F1K) protein was expressed in a prokaryotic expression system and purified using Ni-NTA affinity chromatography. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against FAdV-4 were generated by immunizing BALB/c mice with the purified F1K protein and screened using a series of immunoassays. Potential B cell epitopes on the knob domain of fiber-1 protein were mapped using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and dot-blot. Precious location and crucial amino acids of the identified epitopes were determined using peptide array scanning, truncations and alanine-scanning mutagenesis. The epitopes were analyzed and visualized on the knob trimer of FAdV-4 fiber-1 protein using the PyMOL software.

Results

Water-soluble recombinant fiber-1 knob (F1K) protein was obtained with the assistance of chaperone. Four monoclonal antibodies (5C10, 6F8, 8D8, and 8E8) against FAdV-4 were generated and characterized using indirect ELISA, Western blot, dot-blot, and immunological fluorescence assay (IFA). The mAbs were demonstrated to be from different hybridoma cell lines based on the sequences of the variable regions. Meanwhile, three distinct novel linear B-cell epitopes (319SDVGYLGLPPH329, 328PHTRDNWYV336, and 407VTTGPIPFSYQ417) on the knob domain of fiber-1 protein were identified and the key amino acid residues in the epitopes were determined. Structural analysis showed that the two adjacent epitopes 319SDVGYLGLPPH329 and 328PHTRDNWYV336 were exposed on the surface of the fiber-1 knob trimer, whereas the epitope 407VTTGPIPFSYQ417 was located inside of the spatial structure.

Conclusion

This was the first identification of B-cell epitopes on the knob domain of fiber-1 protein and these findings provided a sound basis for the development of subunit vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostic methods to control FAdV infections.
Outcomes after noncardiac surgery in patients with left ventricular assist devices: a systematic review
Authors: Alamouti-Fard Emad , Garg Pankaj , Yazji John , Brigham Tara , Jacob Samuel , Wadiwala Ishaq J. , Pham Si M.
Published: September 2024

Background

The number of patients living with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) has gradually increased in the past decade. Non-cardiac surgery (NCS) in patients with LVAD poses a unique situation with its inherent challenges.

Aim

We conducted a comprehensive review to investigate the perioperative complications and mortality associated with emergent or elective NCS in patients with LVAD.

Method

A comprehensive literature search for any papers referring to continuous LVAD patients with NCS. All publications with at least five durable LVAD patients who had NCS were eligible for inclusion.

Result

Twenty articles matching our criteria were found and included in our study. This systematic review included 6,476 LVAD patients who underwent 6,824 NCS. There were 5–3,216 LVAD patients with NCS in each study. The median age was between 39 and 65 years, and most of the patients (78.8%) were male. Thirty-day postoperative mortality ranged from 0% to 60%. Eight studies reported no death within the 30 days of the operation. Common complications include gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, intracranial bleeding, infection, acute kidney injury (AKI), urinary tract infection (UTI), stroke, sepsis, pneumonia, and VAD exchange. Emergent abdominal surgery had the highest (up to 60%) mortality rate, and vascular and neurological operations had the highest complication rates. Due to the diverse range of patients in each publication and the combination of outcomes presented in various publications, a meta-analysis was not conducted.

Conclusion

In LVAD patients, noncardiac surgery may be performed effectively and safely. LVAD patients who undergo non-cardiac surgery may require more transfusions due to their complex coagulopathies. However, perioperative management of LVAD patients undergoing emergent NCS should be optimized to reduce mortality.

Systematic Review Registration

https://osf.io/fetsb/.
Examining the status of school improvement program implementation in primary schools: a case study in South Ethiopia region
Authors: Shanko Solomon Sapo , Kabtyimer Muluken Tesfaye
Published: September 2024

The implementation of a School Improvement Program (SIP) is a means to enhance the overall quality of education and ultimately improve students’ academic outcomes. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the extent of SIP implementation with respect to its main domains in primary schools of Gamo Gofa Zone, South Ethiopia Region. Accordingly, the current study focuses on four key areas in schools, which include teaching-learning, school leadership and management, parent-community school relations, and healthy school environment. A descriptive survey research design was used with a quantitative research method. From 16 primary schools; 99 teachers, 32 principals, 44 school improvement committees and 396 students were selected using a simple random sampling technique. The research utilized close-ended questionnaires and document reviews as data-gathering instruments. Quantitative data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and one-way ANOVA, while qualitative data were analyzed using descriptive narration. The findings revealed that the implementation of SIP in the four main domains was moderate status. However, the domains of teac hing-learning and school leadership exhibited a high level of implemen tation. The study also identified significant differences among districts regarding the extent of implementation in the teaching-learning and community participation domains. Moreover, the results of grade four zonal and grade eight regional examinations indicated that SIP is not yet properly implemented and needs high consideration. Therefore, raising awareness about the revised school improvement Blueprint and framework through short-term training, establishing an incentive system to encourage best practices and implementing formal monitoring and evaluation tools are suggested to boost the status of SIP implementation in the study area.
Current role of interventional radiology in thyroid nodules
Authors: Taydas Onur , Arik Erbil , Sevinc Omer Faruk , Kara Ahmet Burak , Ozdemir Mustafa , Cengiz Hasret , Bayhan Zulfu , Ozturk Mehmet Halil
Published: September 2024

Thyroid nodules are a prevalent health issue in society. Interventional radiological methods are successfully applied for both the diagnosis and treatment of nodules. Diagnostically, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy and a core needle biopsy can be performed to ascertain the benign or malignant nature of a lesion. In recent years, imaging-guided percutaneous treatment methods have become popular in the treatment of thyroid nodules. Aspiration, ablation, and embolization are techniques employed in the treatment process. In this study, we aimed to discuss the current role of interventional radiology in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid nodules, which occupy an important place in clinical practice.
The hidden impact: the rate of nicotine metabolism and kidney health
Authors: Wang Xiaona , Su Shanshan
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The effects of nicotine metabolism on the kidneys of healthy individuals have not been determined. The nicotine metabolite ratio (NMR) indicates the rate of nicotine metabolism and is linked to smoking behaviors and responses to tobacco treatments. We conducted this study in order to investigated the relationship between nicotine metabolite ratio (NMR) and kidney function.

Methods

An analysis of cross-sectional data of adults was conducted using a population survey dataset (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data 2013/2018 of the United States). A weighted multivariate regression analysis was conducted to estimate the correlation between NMR and kidney function. Furthermore, we apply fitting smooth curves to make the relationship between NMR and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) more visualized.

Results

The research included a total of 16153 participants. Weighted multivariate regression analyses adjusted for possible variables showed a negative relationship between NMR and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).The β (95%CI) of the regression equation between NMR and eGFR was -2.24 (-2.92, -1.55), the trend testing showed consistent results. NMR is positively correlated with urinary albumin creatinine ratio (uACR), but it is not statistically significant. A stratified analysis found a negative correlation between NMR and eGFR in all age, gender and diabetes subgroups, the results were not statistically significant among Mexican Americans and other races. Notably, each unit rise in NMR corresponded to a 4.54 ml/min·1.73m² lower eGFR in diabetic participants and a 6.04 ml/min·1.73m² lower eGFR in those aged 60 and above.

Conclusions

Our study shows that nicotine metabolite ratio is negatively associated with kidney function among most adults. It will be necessary to conduct more well-designed prospective clinical trials in order to determine the exact causal interactions between NMR and kidney function. Specific mechanisms also need to be further explored in basic experiments.
The efficacy of orally administered L-carnitine in alleviating ovarian dysfunctions has laid the foundation for targeted in vivo use: a study employing self-control and propensity score matching
Authors: Zhao Wenjie , Liu Kunkun , Zhang Yuhua , Sun Pingping , Zeringue Ernest , Meng Li , Ma Huagang
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of oral L-carnitine administration in patients after treatment failure to lay the groundwork for targeted in vivo use.

Methods and materials

A total of 515 In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) patients undergoing subsequent cycles were included after applying exclusion criteria. They were divided into a control group of 362 patients and a study group of 153 patients who received oral L-carnitine until oocyte retrieval.140 patients were matched according to maternal age, infertility duration, body mass index (BMI), day three top-quality embryos rate, by propensity score matching (PSM). The study investigated the relationship between L-carnitine treatment and in vivo oocyte maturation, normal fertilization, and subsequent embryo development.

Results

Following PSM, initial differences in BMI and Day3 top-quality embryo rate between groups were nullified, we created two comparable cohorts with highly similar characteristics. In the subsequent cycles, the study group showed significant improvements in in vivo oocyte maturation rate at retrieval (p=0.002), normal in vitro fertilization rate (p=0.003), blastocyst formation rate (p=0.003), and usable blastocyst rate compared to controls. Although there was no significant difference in the top-quality embryo rate on Day 3, the study group showed a 10% increase in the upper quartile (55.35% vs. 66.67%). The cumulative clinical pregnancy and live birth rates showed a significant improvement (59.82% vs. 68.42%,p=0.004, 47.41% vs. 59.80%, p=0.002). Furthermore, self-control analysis revealed substantial enhancements (p<0.001) in all outcome measures following L-carnitine administration, resulting in the birth of 74 healthy neonates without congenital anomalies.

Conclusion

We theorized that daily oral intake of L-carnitine before oocyte retrieval could boost oocyte quality and embryonic development, thus improving IVF outcomes. Ongoing investigations hold the potential to offer valuable insights into the applications and mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effectiveness of L-carnitine.
Carbon neutralization frontier tracking
Authors: Shi Xiaoliang , Xin Jiayin , Aria Aruna , Lu Ji , Wang Tielong , Xu Xiaowei , Zhang Yiwen
Published: September 2024

This systematic study on the international research trends in carbon neutrality underscores its critical role in combating global warming and advancing sustainable development. By leveraging the “Web of Science Core Collection” databases and employing CiteSpace software for visual analysis, we examined 2223 research papers to track the influence and trends of key countries, institutions, and authors. Our results reveal a significant increase in publication volume, indicating a robust development potential for carbon neutrality research. The study also identifies environmental science, environmental research, and energy and fuel science as central interdisciplinary hubs, highlighting the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration. Notably, China leads in publication output but has room for improvement in citation impact, suggesting a need for enhanced research quality and international visibility. The study's findings are instrumental for guiding future research directions, policy-making, and interdisciplinary cooperation, particularly in the fields of environmental science and energy, to accelerate progress towards carbon neutrality and global climate governance.
The yeast Wickerhamomyces anomalus acts as a predator of the olive anthracnose-causing fungi, Colletotrichum nymphaeae, C. godetiae, and C. gloeosporioides
Authors: Amorim-Rodrigues Mariana , Brandão Rogélio Lopes , Cássio Fernanda , Lucas Cândida
Published: September 2024

Olive tree anthracnose is caused by infection with Colletotrichum fungi, which in Portugal are mostly C. nymphaeae, C. godetiae, and C. gloeosporioides s.s. Severe economic losses are caused by this disease that would benefit from a greener and more efficient alternative to the present agrochemical methods. Yeasts are serious candidates for pre-harvest/in field biocontrol of fungal infections. This work identified the yeast Wickerhamomyces anomalus as a strong antagonizer of the three fungi and studied in vitro this ability and its associated mechanisms. Antagonism was shown to not depend on the secretion of volatile compounds (VOCs), or siderophores or any other agar-diffusible compound, including hydrolytic enzymes. Rather, it occurred mostly in a cell-to-cell contact dependent manner. This was devised through detailed microscopic assessment of yeast-fungus cocultures. This showed that W. anomalus antagonism of the three Colletotrichum proceeded through (i) the adhesion of yeast cells to the phytopathogen hyphae, (ii) the secretion of a viscous extracellular matrix, and (iii) the emptying of the hyphae. Yeasts ultimately putatively feed on hyphal contents, which is supported by light microscopy observation of MB and PI co-culture-stained samples. Accordingly, numerous W. anomalus cells were observed packing inside C. godetiae emptied hyphae. This behaviour can be considered microbial predation and classified as necrotrophic mycoparasitism, more explicitly in the case of C. godetiae. The results support the prospect of future application of W. anomalus as a living biofungicide/BCA in the preharvest control of olive anthracnose.
Recent progress and applications of single-cell sequencing technology in breast cancer
Authors: Hawsawi Yousef M. , Khoja Basmah , Aljaylani Abdullah Omar , Jaha Raniah , AlDerbi Rasha Mohammed , Alnuman Huda , Khan Mohammed I.
Published: September 2024

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology enables the precise analysis of individual cell transcripts with high sensitivity and throughput. When integrated with multiomics technologies, scRNA-seq significantly enhances the understanding of cellular diversity, particularly within the tumor microenvironment. Similarly, single-cell DNA sequencing has emerged as a powerful tool in cancer research, offering unparalleled insights into the genetic heterogeneity and evolution of tumors. In the context of breast cancer, this technology holds substantial promise for decoding the intricate genomic landscape that drives disease progression, treatment resistance, and metastasis. By unraveling the complexities of tumor biology at a granular level, single-cell DNA sequencing provides a pathway to advancing our comprehension of breast cancer and improving patient outcomes through personalized therapeutic interventions. As single-cell sequencing technology continues to evolve and integrate into clinical practice, its application is poised to revolutionize the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies for breast cancer. This review explores the potential of single-cell sequencing technology to deepen our understanding of breast cancer, highlighting key approaches, recent advancements, and the role of the tumor microenvironment in disease plasticity. Additionally, the review discusses the impact of single-cell sequencing in paving the way for the development of personalized therapies.
Case report: Artificial thymic organoids facilitate clinical decisions for a patient with a TP63 variant and severe persistent T cell lymphopenia
Authors: Gall Alevtina , Bosticardo Marita , Ma Stacey , Chen Karin , Amini Kayla , Pala Francesca , Delmonte Ottavia M. , Wenger Tara , Bamshad Michael , Sleasman John , Blessing Matthew , van Oers Nicolai S. C. , Notarangelo Luigi D. , de la Morena M. Teresa
Published: September 2024

Pathogenic variants in the transcription factor TP63 are associated with clinically overlapping syndromes including ectrodactyly-ectodermal dysplasia clefting (EEC) and ankyloblepharon-ectodermal defects-cleft lip/palate (AEC). T cell lymphopenia has rarely been described in individuals with TP63 variants and the cause of the T cell defect is unclear. Here, we present a case of a female infant born with TP63-related syndrome and profound T cell lymphopenia, first uncovered through newborn screening. Flow cytometry analysis revealed low CD4+ naïve T cells and nearly absent CD8+ T cells with intact B and NK cell compartments. A de novo heterozygous pathogenic variant c.1040 G>A (C347Y) in exon 8 of TP63 was identified. An artificial thymic organoid system, to assess the intrinsic ability of the patient’s hematopoietic cells to develop into T cells, was performed twice using separate peripheral blood samples. Ex vivo T cell differentiation was evident with the artificial organoid system, suggesting that a thymic stromal cell defect may be the cause of the T cell lymphopenia. Consistent with this, interrogation of publicly available data indicated that TP63 expression in the human thymus is restricted to thymic epithelial cells. Based on these data, congenital athymia was suspected and the patient received an allogenic cultured thymus tissue implant (CTTI). This is the first report of suspected congenital athymia and attempted treatment with CTTI associated with TP63 variant. At 9 months post-implant, peripheral lymphocyte analysis revealed measurable T cell receptor excision circles and presence of CD4+ recent thymic emigrants suggestive of early thymopoiesis. She will continue regular monitoring to ensure restoration of T cell immunity.
Potential nutrient, carbon and fisheries impacts of large-scale seaweed and shellfish aquaculture in Europe evaluated using operational oceanographic model outputs
Authors: Johnson Martin , Jutard Quentin , Jaouen Maël , Maltsev Nikolai , Boyer Margaux , Guillerme Chloe , McElligott Deirdre , Paolacci Simona , Maguire Julie , Mangin Antoine , Bryère Philippe
Published: September 2024

Large-scale seaweed and shellfish aquaculture are increasingly being considered by policymakers as a source of food, animal feed and bioproducts for Europe. These aquacultures are generally thought to be low impact or even beneficial for marine ecosystems as they are ‘extractive’ – i.e., growing passively on foodstuff already available in seawater, and with potential habitat provision, fisheries, climate mitigation and eutrophication mitigation benefits. At some scale however, over-extraction of nutrients or chlorophyll could potentially have a negative effect on natural systems. Understanding the likely impacts of aquaculture production at scale is important to identify when safe limits are being approached. Taking seaweed aquaculture as the primary focus, this work uses operational oceanographic model outputs to drive prognostic growth models to predict the likely optimal distribution of seaweed farms across European waters to meet different production scenarios. A novel nutrient transport scheme is then used to model the interacting ‘footprints’ of nutrient drawdown from aquaculture facilities to demonstrate the likely spatial impact of large-scale aquaculture. Evaluation of both seaweed and shellfish contributions to CO2 balance under large scale production, and the potential impact on fisheries are also considered. The study finds that the impact of intensive seaweed aquaculture on nutrient availability could be significant where many farms are placed close together; but at the regional/basin scale even the highest level of production considered does not significantly impact total nutrient budgets. Seaweed aquaculture has the potential to extract large amounts of carbon dioxide, but the impact on carbon budgets depends on the end-use of the extracted seaweed. Shellfish aquaculture is a net source of CO2 due to the impact of calcification of shells on the carbonate system (i.e., alkalinity removal). However, gram-for-gram the CO2 impact of shellfish production is likely to be less than the impact of land-based meat production. Whilst operational oceanographic models are useful for taking a ‘broad brush’ approach to likely placement and impacts of aquaculture, reliable yield predictions for individual locations across European waters would require models integrating more physical and biogeochemical factors (wave environment, local currents, riverine inputs) at a finer scale than currently achievable.
Prediction of thermal protection performance and empirical study of flame-retardant cotton based on a combined model
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Ma Keai , Wang Lijian , Zhang Zhemin , Ye Xiangyu , Zhang Jinzhong , Li Haihang
Published: September 2024

Thermal protection performance (TPP) is an important index to evaluate the performance of firefighting clothing. The purpose of this work is to build a model to predict the TPP values of fabrics with fewer variables. Two properties of flame-retardant cotton were tested with TPP values under different air gaps, and the correlations between these properties were also analyzed. A combined model was established by integrating multivariate nonlinear regression model and gradient boosting regression tree model. Then the combined model was compared with these two single models. The results showed that the correlation coefficients between gram weight and thickness of fabric and TPP value were 0.833 and 0.837, respectively, indicating a strong correlation. The correlation coefficient between air gap and TPP value was 0.304, indicating a weak correlation. In predicting the thermal protective performance of flame-retardant cotton, this study employed a multivariate nonlinear regression model, a Gradient Boosting Regression Tree (GBRT) model, and a combined model. After comparing various evaluation metrics, it was finally decided to adopt the combined model for predicting the thermal protective performance values of flame-retardant cotton. This method improved the prediction accuracy of thermal protective performance, facilitating the promotion and application of the combined model. Furthermore, when exploring the thermal protective performance of flame-retardant cotton, the use of fewer variables to establish the prediction model can not only significantly simplify the complex structure of the model but also greatly enhance the analysis efficiency, ensuring the efficiency and precision of the research process.
Comprehensive review of Korean Medicine registries 2015–2023
Authors: Kim Soo-Dam , Choi Sunmi , Kim Sungha
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite the increasing popularity of Korean Medicine (KM), its scientific evidence faces scrutiny. Instead of randomized controlled trials, registries are favored to capture the real world of KM practice due to the difficulties associated with proper control and the holistic nature of the KM approach. This review aimed to examine the KM registries in detail, identify the scope and focus of studies within this field, and assess the research trends.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of KM registries listed in trial registration platforms, covering records from their inception until the end of 2023. The selection criteria aimed to include studies focusing on various interventions related to KM, with data extraction focusing on study characteristics and outcomes measured. The analysis utilized descriptive statistics to summarize the findings.

Results

We identified a steady increase in registry studies (2015, one; 2023, seven). Musculoskeletal disorders were most studied (28%), aligning with patients’ demand. The involvement of 112 primary clinics and Quality of Life (QOL) as the predominant outcome in 14 (66.7%) registries demonstrates the positive impact on patient well-being and the critical role that primary clinics play in KM practice.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a heightened interest and commitment to evidence-based KM practices. Future Registries should be implemented on a large scale, incorporating long-term follow-up encompassing primary clinics. This approach would enable a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of KM interventions, as well as offer valuable insights into the influence of KM on chronic conditions and QOL.
Segmental vitiligo distribution follows the underlying arterial blood supply territory: a hypothesis based on anatomo-clinical, pathological and physio-pathological studies
Authors: Benzekri Laila , Cario-André Muriel , Laamrani Fatima Zahrae , Gauthier Yvon
Published: September 2024

Background

Segmental vitiligo (SV) is a subset of vitiligo typically characterized by its unilateral distribution. The pathogenesis of SV remains unclear, and until now the two main patterns proposed for SV have lacked biological support. This calls for a new approach.

Objectives

Use data obtained from anatomo-clinical, pathological, and physio-pathological studies to formulate a new hypothesis on segmental vitiligo distribution and its pathogenesis.

Methods

Using transparent templates of local arterial blood supply, we evaluated anatomical correspondence (AC) in 140 SV lesions according to the number of SV lesions that fit within the corresponding arterial blood-supply areas. SV lesions were graded as 1 (moderate: AC < 50%), 2 (good: AC > 50%), or 3 (excellent: AC of all lesions). To support this anatomical investigation, we searched for complementary assessments according to the activity of SV lesions. Arterial and periarterial network impairment and inflammatory infiltration were histologically studied using nerve growth factor (NGF) and CD4 and CD8 monoclonal antibodies. Increased blood flow of the underlying arteries was also investigated using thermography and ultrasonography.

Results

We recruited 140 patients with a sex ratio of 0.8 and mean age 26.13 years. Localizations: head and neck 84.28%; trunk 6.42%; upper limb 5%; genital areas 2.14%; lower limb 1.42%. The AC of each SV lesion with the underlying artery blood supply territory was rated as 72% excellent; 16% good; and 12% moderate. Histologically (40 patients), we found some periarterial network impairments. Thermal asymmetry was significantly associated with active SV (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

We hypothesized that SV distribution corresponds to the underlying artery blood-supply territory.
A novel RPE65 variant p.(Ala391Asp) in Leber congenital amaurosis: a case report and literature review in Japan
Authors: Higa Natsuki , Hayashi Takaaki , Mizobuchi Kei , Iwasa Maki , Kubota Shingo , Kuniyoshi Kazuki , Kameya Shuhei , Kondo Hiroyuki , Kondo Mineo , Nakano Tadashi
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In Japan, inherited retinal dystrophy caused by biallelic variants of the RPE65 gene is exceedingly rare. The purpose of this study was to describe a Japanese male patient with a novel variant in RPE65 associated with Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA).

Case report

The patient, diagnosed with LCA, exhibited infantile nystagmus and reported experiencing night blindness since early childhood. At 27 years of age, the patient underwent an ophthalmologically evaluation. Corrected visual acuity was Snellen equivalent 20/133 in the right eye and Snellen equivalent 20/100 in the left eye. Fundus examination revealed alterations in the retinal pigment epithelium characterized by hypopigmentation and narrowing of retinal vessels. Fundus autofluorescence imaging demonstrated a generally diminished autofluorescent signal. Full-field electroretinography identified a generalized dysfunction of both rod and cone systems in each eye. Whole exome sequencing identified a novel missense variant in RPE65 (NM_000329.3): c.1172C > A p.(Ala391Asp), which was classified as pathogenic, as well as a recurrent variant p.(Arg515Trp).

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the genotype–phenotype correlation of RPE65-associated LCA in Japanese patients, with critical implications for enhanced diagnostic accuracy and informed therapeutic decisions.