bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon credits and the “Peter Pan” forests
Authors: Swinfield Tom , Brancalion Pedro , Balmford Andrew , Wheeler Charlotte , Strassburg Bernardo
Published: November 2023

Natural Climate Solutions have gained prominence as pivotal strategies for climate change mitigation, with tropical reforestation an important and cost-effective approach. However, despite significant reforestation commitments, the potential of natural forest re-growth remains underutilized, with second-growth forests, akin to the perpetual youth of the fictional character Peter Pan, repeatedly cleared, hindering their contribution to carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. We investigate the persistent challenges faced by regenerating second-growth tropical forests and discuss the need for novel carbon crediting approaches to incentivize their protection and restoration. Current carbon accounting frameworks, designed for afforestation and reforestation, overlook the unique characteristics of Peter Pan forests. We argue for a paradigm shift in carbon accounting that places Peter Pan forest intermediate between avoided conversion (REDD+) and reforestation (ARR). To ensure additionality we propose a nuanced statistical approach, combining satellite-derived time series with economic pressure indicators. This method aims to generate credible counterfactual scenarios for assessing carbon stock increases relative to those in the absence of carbon finance. Moreover, we highlight the socio-economic factors influencing second-growth forest persistence, emphasizing the need for integrated food production and forest restoration policies.
Pengaruh Terapi Pijat Bayi Terhadap Kualitas Tidur Bayi Usia 1-12 Bulan di Puskesmas
Authors: Somantri Budi
Published: November 2023

Absract
Infant mortality in Indonesia is usually caused due to a number of factors the basic needs of a infant that was not met well. One of the basic needs to sleep. Sleep will stimulate development of brain and body. A worse of quality sleep will impact to the growth of infant.  One of the implementation that can improve quality of sleep thorough infantâ€™s massage therapy.
The purpose of this study was to effect of  infantâ€™s massage therapy to the quality of sleep  at  ages 1-12 months.
The sampling technique used purposive. Total samples consisted of  30 subjects who were  divided into 15 respondents as a  treatment group, and 15 respondents as a control group. Each experiment group was given a massage program for 6 times  in a week  Inclusion criteria that mother of respondents could communicate well, cooperative, and infants who become the respondents were healthy without congenital disease or physical defect, and the ages around 1-12 months.
Research method used quasi experiment and design used posttest only control group on experiment group and control group. Results of statistical tests in this study showed the significant influences and there was average quality of sleep on the experiment and the control group after infants were getting massage with p value ( Ï = 0.002) < 0.05.
Based on the results of this research, it was suggested to perform the measurement of infant quality of sleep  by  using pre test, using more accurate parameters, and  increase the number of  research samples.
 
Keywords: infant massage therapy, quality of sleep
Pengetahuan Penderita Tentang Pencegahan Penularan Tuberculosis Di Bandung
Authors: Rahmi Upik
Published: November 2023

Latar Belakang: Tuberculosis  (TB) paru adalah penyakit akibat infeksi kuman Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Sistemik sehingga dapat mengenai hampir semua organ tubuh dengan lokasi terbanyak di paru yang biasanya merupakan lokasi infeksi primer. Pencegahan penyebaran TB paru didukung oleh berbagai faktor diantaranya lingkungan rumah, perilaku batuk, ketuntasan pengobatan dan tingkat pengetahuan. penderita yang akan mendorong kepada suatu perilaku yang mendukung terhadap upaya pencegahan penularan penyakit TBC paru atas dasar kesadaran sendiri.  Tujuan Penelitian: Mengetahui pengetahuan penderita tentang pencegahan penularan penyakit TB Paru di   Kabupaten Bandung. Metode Penelitian: Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian kuantitatif, Populasi sebanyak 30 orang dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 30 responden, menggunakan Teknik Total Sampling.  
Hasil Penelitian: Hasil analisis statistik usia responden terbagi kedalam usia lansia sebanyak 15 responden (50%), usia dewasa sebanyak 11 responden (36,7%) dan usia dewasa muda sebanyak 4 responden (13,3%). Pendidikan responden pendidikan dasar 16 (53,3%), pendidikan menengah  14 (46,7%).  Status pekerjaan 24 (80%) tidak bekerja, 6 (20%) yang bekerja. Keterpaparan informasi sebagian besar responden terpapar 25 (83,3%), 5 responden (16,7%) mengaku tidak terpapar informasi tentang Tuberculosis paru. Lingkungan sebanyak 15 responden (50%) memiliki lingkungan yang tidak mendukung dan sebanyak 15 responden (50%) memiliki lingkungan yang mendukung. Pengetahuan responden  16 responden (55,3%) memiliki tingkat pengetahuan cukup, 9 responden (30%) memiliki tingkat pengetahuan baik dan 5 responden (16,7%) yang memiliki tingkat pengetahuan kurang.
Pembahasan: Karakteristik (usia, pendidikan, pekerjaan, keterpaparan informasi dan lingkungan) yang dimiliki oleh responden akan berdampak  pada pengetahuan, pola pikir dan perilaku dalam menyikapi informasi tentang pencegahan penularan TB paru. Pengetahuan merupakan salah satu faktor penting yang sangat diperlukan dalam mengembangkan diri, karena semakin tinggi pengetahuan maka semakin mudah dalam mengembangkan dan menerima informasi yang datang dari luar. Pengetahuan merupakan faktor yang sangat mendukung kebutuhan pelayanan kesehatan. (Notoatmodjo, 2003)
Simpulan:  Pengetahuan merupakan salah satu faktor penting yang sangat diperlukan dalam mengembangkan diri, karena semakin tinggi pengetahuan maka semakin mudah dalam mengembangkan dan menerima informasi yang datang dari luar.
Beban Keluarga Sebagai Caregiver Pada Klien Stroke Di Bandung
Authors: Widianti Efri , J Ridillah Vani , Prawesti Ayu
Published: November 2023

Keluarga berperan sebagai caregiver ketika salah satu anggotanya menderita penyakit. Sebagai caregiver, memberikan perawatan lebih berisiko untuk mengalami beban, dimana beban yang dapat ia rasakan adalah akibat dari permasalahan beban umum, isolasi, kekecewaan, emosional dan lingkungan yang dialami oleh klien stroke yang dirawatnya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi tingkat beban keluarga sebagai caregiver pada klien dengan stroke.
Penelitian deskriptif ini menggunakan instrument Caregiver Burden Scale  (CBS) berupa kuesioner dengan sampel penelitian yaitu keluarga sebagai caregiver pada klien stroke. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan purposive sampling dan didapatkan responden sebanyak 78 orang. Metode analisa data menggunakan persentase dan nilai rata-rata (mean).
Hasil menunjukkan hampir setengah (41,0%) dari responden memiliki beban sedang. Diperoleh nilai persentase dari setiap subvariabelnya yaitu beban tertinggi pada beban umum (38,4%), beban sedang pada kekecewaan (52,5%), lingkungan (50,0%) dan beban rendah pada isolasi sosial (46,1%) emosional (80,7%).
Disarankan bagi pemberi layanan kesehatan untuk lebih memperhatikan kondisi keluarga, keluarga sebagai caregiver juga membutuhkan perhatian karena beban merawat klien stroke yang begitu berat. Terjaganya kondisi caregiver akan berpengaruh pada perawatan yang akan dia berikan kepada klien stroke yang nantinya akan mempengaruhi kondisi kesehatan dari klien stroke.
Hubungan Efikasi Diri dan Dukungan Sosial dengan Self Care Management Penderita Hipertensidi Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Cijagra Lama Bandung
Authors: Salami Salami , Wilandika Angga
Published: November 2023

Hipertensi merupakan salah satu jenis penyakit tidak menular (PTM) yang harus diwaspadai dan mendapat penanganan serius. Di Indonesia menurut data Riset Kesehatan Dasar (Riskesdas) tahun 2013, jumlah penderita hipertensi  sebesar 25,8%.. Di Kota Bandung berdasarkan data dari Dinas Kesehatan  tahun 2014, dilaporkan bahwa hipertensi  merupakan penyakit dengan jumlah penderita terbanyak ketiga. Di Puskesmas Cijagra Lama  Kota Bandung  dari bulan Januari sampai Desember 2016, rata â€“rata dalam sebulan angka kunjungan pasien hipertensi sebesar 150-160 orang. Perubahan perilaku merupakan kunci penting dalam pengelolaan penyakit hipertensi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis hubungan antara efikasi diri dan dukungan sosial dengan self care penderita hipertensi. Rancangan penelitian menggunakan metode survey analitik cross sectional dengan pendekatan korelasional. Jumlah sampel sebanyak 115 orang. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan menggunakan kuesioner. Pengukuran efikasi diri diukur dengan instrumen Medical Adherence Self-Efficacy Scale (MASES) dan untuk dukungan sosial  digunakan instrumen dari Social Support dari Sarason. Sedangkan self care  diukur dengan menggunakan HSCALE dari Warren Findlow & Seymour (2011). Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa bahwa sebanyak 50,4% penderita hipertensi  memiliki self care yang baik dengan   skor mean 41,63  dan standard deviasi 11,19 %., berdasarkan efikasi diri sebanyak 66,1% penderita memiliki efikasi diri tinggi dengan  skor  mean 69,47 dan standard  deviasi 7,4. Sedangkanberdasarkan dukungan sosial,  sebanyak  54,8% penderita  memiliki dukungan sosial rendah dengan skor mean 39,96 Â± 2,99. Berdasarkan analisis bivariat dengan menggunakan chi square menunjukan ada  hubungan  antara efikasi diri dengan self care management pada penderita hipertensi, (p-value = 0,0001 < 0,05)dengan arah hubungan positif. Tidak ada hubungan secara statistik (p-value = 0,109 > 0,05) antara dukungan sosial dengan self care management pada penderita hipertensi. Variabel yang paling dominan berkontribusi pada  self care management  penderita hipertensi adalah variabel efikasi diri dengan nilai Sig. variabel efikasi diri (0,000 < 0,05) lebih kecil dari nilai Sig. variabel dukungan sosial (0,027 < 0,05)
 
Kata Kunci : efikasi diri, dukungan sosial,  Self care management
Bagaimanakah Senam Diabetes Dapat Mempengaruhi Kadar Gula Darah Pada Pasien Diabetes Melitus Di Kelurahan Kedungsari?
Authors: Masithoh Robiul Fitri , Pinilih Sambodo Sriadi
Published: November 2023

Latar belakang: Prosentase kejadian diabetes mellitus yang dapat dicegah sekitar 80%. Diabetes merupakan penyebab utama kebutaan, serangan jantung, stroke, gagal ginjal dan amputasi kaki.  Estimasi jumlah pasien diabetes mellitus diseluruh dunia peregional di tahun 2015 dan 2040 dengan usia terbanyak adalah 20-79 tahun. Upaya yang  bisa dilakukan adalah salah satunya dengan aktivitas fisik (senam diabetes) melakukan diet sehat dengan memperbanyak tinggi serat. Tujuan penelitian: untuk mengetahui pengaruh modifikasi senam diabetes dan diet tinggi serat terhadap kadar gula darah pada pasien dengan diabetes mellitus di kelurahan Kedungsari  Metodologi penelitian: Metode penelitian meliputi desain penelitian, populasi dan sampel, tempat penelitian dan waktu penelitian, pengumpulan data, uji validitas dan reliabilitas instrumen, etika penelitian dan analisa data. Desain penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian quasi eksperimen dengan desain pre-post test control group design, menggunakan 2 (dua) kelompok, yaitu kelompok eksperimen dan kelompok kontrol. kelompok eksperimen dilakukan senam diabetes 4 (hari) hari berturut-turut, selanjutnya pada kelompok kontrol melakukana aktivitas sehari hari. Sebelum dan sesudah intervensi dilakukan kembali pengukuran kadar gula darah pada kedua kelompok. Hasil Penelitian ada perbedaan kadar gula darah pada kelompok intervensi dan kelompok kontrol setelah dilakukan perlakuan sebanyak 4 hari dengan menggunakan gerakan kontiyu.
Pengaruh Self Help Group terhadap Self Care pada Pasien Diabetes Melitus di Persadia Cabang Rumah Sakit Muhammadiyah Bandung
Authors: Wilandika Angga , Ilmi Dinyati Aghnia , Dede Supriyatna Iyep
Published: November 2023

Diabetes melitus (DM) merupakan masalah kesehatan yang serius, dimana setiap tahun penderitanya bertambah. Dalam meningkatkan aktivitas self care pada pasien DM sebagai bentuk pengelolaan mencegah komplikasi, maka perlu dilakukan strategi penanggulangan. Intervensi yang dapat dilakukan dengan melibatkan aktivitas kelompok adalah self help group. Self help group melibatkan pasien DM untuk melaksanakan pengelolaan penyakit, memberikan dukungan antar anggota dan meningkatkan pengetahuan terhadap self care. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perbedaan self care pada pasien diabetes melitus dengan aktivitas self help group. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah pre-experimental dengan rancangan pre post test tanpa kelompok kontrol. Penelitian dilakukan di PERSADIA cabang Rumah Sakit Muhammadiyah Bandung. Sampel penelitian adalah 10 responden dan pelaksanaannya selama empat kali pertemuan dalam empat minggu. Alat pengumpulan data berupa kuesioner summary of diabetes self care activities (SDSCA). Analisa data menggunakan uji ststistik paired t-test. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh self help group terhadap self care dengan nilai signifikasi p-value 0,0001 (Î± = 0,05). Skor self care mengalami perubahan, dimana skor pre-test sebesar 50,20 Â± 8,829 sedangkan skor post-test sebesar 72,10 Â± 6,707. Hasil penelitian ini diharapkan dapat menjadi rujukan untuk program kelompok DM lainnya dan diaplikasikan sebagai rencana asuhan keperawatan berbasis komunitas.
Can predatory mites aid in the management of the citrus leprosis mite?
Authors: Vechia Jaqueline F. Della , Andrade Daniel J. , Tassi Aline D. , Roda Amy , van Santen Edzard , Carrillo Daniel
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The flat mite Brevipalpus yothersi is the main vector of citrus leprosis in South and Central America and Mexico, where vector suppression using conventional acaricides is usually the only disease control method, leading to problems with acaricide resistance. This mite is present in Florida, where several viruses known to cause citrus leprosis were recently detected. This research builds preparedness for managing emerging viral diseases and mitigating potential problems associated with acaricide resistance by addressing the compatibility of chemical and biological control strategies against B. yothersi. The predatory mite Amblyseius largoensis has shown promise as a biological control agent of B. yothersi. However, the effects of acaricides used in citrus on this predator are unknown.

Methods

This study investigated the impact of different routes of acaricide exposure on A. largoensis, including direct contact, pesticide-contaminated prey, residual contact, and combined exposure routes in laboratory settings. Additionally, the efficacy of A. largoensis in controlling B. yothersi, alone and in combination with acaricide applications, was evaluated under greenhouse conditions.

Results and discussion

Commonly used acaricides like abamectin and spirodiclofen were highly effective in controlling B. yothersi and only slightly harmful to A. largoensis. Other acaricides were also effective against B. yothersi but were less compatible with the predatory mite. In the greenhouse trial, all acaricides, alone or in combination with the predators, and the predators alone, effectively suppressed B. yothersi one month after treatment application. However, B. yothersi populations significantly increased one month later in the abamectin-alone and predator-alone treatments. At the same time, the combination of abamectin and predators provided B. yothersi suppression throughout the experiment. The fenpyroximate-predator combination also provided better control than each treatment applied independently. All other acaricides provided prolonged B. yothersi control, hindering biological control probably due to the lack of prey for A. largoensis. Research findings highlight the potential for enhancing the selectivity of acaricides towards A. largoensis by manipulating their exposure route. Combining predatory mites with acaricides shows promise in improving B. yothersi management.
Mathematical modeling of cerebral oxygen transport from capillaries to tissue
Authors: Kovtanyuk Andrey , Chebotarev Alexander , Lampe Reneé
Published: November 2023

A non-linear model of oxygen transport from a capillary to tissue is considered. The model takes into account the convection of oxygen in the blood, its diffusion transfer through the capillary wall, and the diffusion and consumption of oxygen in tissue. In the current work, a boundary value problem for the oxygen transport model is studied. The existence theorem is proved and a numerical algorithm is constructed and implemented. The numerical experiments studying the effect of low hematocrit and reduced blood flow rate on cerebral hypoxia in preterm infants are conducted.
Seawater to resource technologies with NASICON solid electrolyte: a review
Authors: Kim Namhyeok , Kim Seohae , Jeong Seongwoo , Jin Hyo , Lee Hyeonseok , Kim Youngsik , Lee Wang-Geun , Park Jeong-Sun
Published: November 2023

Seawater represents an inexhaustible reservoir of valuable resources, containing vast quantities of both water and minerals. However, the presence of various impurities in seawater hinders its direct utilization for resource extraction. To address this challenge, an electrochemical method employing a solid electrolyte known as NASICON (Sodium Super Ionic Conductor) offers effective solutions for extracting valuable resources from seawater. The NASICON ceramic acts as a robust barrier against impurities and facilitates the selective transport of Na+. This review provides a comprehensive examination of NASICON ceramics, offering an overview of the concept and highlighting the competitive advantages of NASICON-based electrochemical systems, particularly in the realms of energy storage, hydrogen production, sodium hydroxide and chlorine synthesis, water treatment, and mineral extraction. Furthermore, this study outlines the key challenges that need to be addressed and discusses the trajectory of its development toward becoming a mature technology.
Bayesian denoising algorithm dealing with colored, non-stationary noise in continuous glucose monitoring timeseries
Authors: Camerlingo Nunzio , Siviero Ilaria , Vettoretti Martina , Sparacino Giovanni , Del Favero Simone , Facchinetti Andrea
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The retrospective analysis of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) timeseries can be hampered by colored and non-stationary measurement noise. Here, we introduce a Bayesian denoising (BD) algorithm to address both autocorrelation of measurement noise and temporal variability of its variance.

Methods: BD utilizes adaptive, a-priori models of signal and noise, whose unknown variances are derived on partially-overlapped CGM windows, via smoothing approach based on linear mean square estimation. The CGM signal and noise variability profiles are then reconstructed using a kernel smoother. BD is first assessed on two simulated datasets, DS1 and DS2. On DS1, the effectiveness of accounting for colored noise is evaluated by comparison against a literature algorithm; on DS2, the effectiveness of accounting for the noise variance temporal variability is evaluated by comparison against a Butterworth filter. BD is then evaluated on 15 CGM timeseries measured by the Dexcom G6 (DR).

Results: On DS1, BD allows reducing the root-mean-square-error (RMSE) from 8.10 [6.79–9.24] mg/dL to 6.28 [5.47–7.27] mg/dL (median [IQR]); on DS2, RMSE decreases from 6.85 [5.50–8.72] mg/dL to 5.35 [4.48–6.49] mg/dL. On DR, BD performs a reasonable tracking of noise variance variability and a satisfactory denoising.

Discussion: The new algorithm effectively addresses the nature of CGM measurement error, outperforming existing denoising algorithms.
In vivo biocompatibility testing of nanoparticle-functionalized alginate–chitosan scaffolds for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Viveros-Moreno Nancy G. , Garcia-Lorenzana Mario , Peña-Mercado Eduardo , García-Sanmartín Josune , Narro-Íñiguez Judit , Salazar-García Marcela , Huerta-Yepez Sara , Sanchez-Gomez Concepción , Martínez Alfredo , Beltran-Vargas Nohra E.
Published: November 2023

Background: There is a strong interest in designing new scaffolds for their potential application in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The incorporation of functionalization molecules can lead to the enhancement of scaffold properties, resulting in variations in scaffold compatibility. Therefore, the efficacy of the therapy could be compromised by the foreign body reaction triggered after implantation.

Methods: In this study, the biocompatibilities of three scaffolds made from an alginate–chitosan combination and functionalized with gold nanoparticles (AuNp) and alginate-coated gold nanoparticles (AuNp + Alg) were evaluated in a subcutaneous implantation model in Wistar rats. Scaffolds and surrounding tissue were collected at 4-, 7- and 25-day postimplantation and processed for histological analysis and quantification of the expression of genes involved in angiogenesis, macrophage profile, and proinflammatory (IL-1β and TNFα) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4 and IL-10) cytokines.

Results: Histological analysis showed a characteristic foreign body response that resolved 25 days postimplantation. The intensity of the reaction assessed through capsule thickness was similar among groups. Functionalizing the device with AuNp and AuNp + Alg decreased the expression of markers associated with cell death by apoptosis and polymorphonuclear leukocyte recruitment, suggesting increased compatibility with the host tissue. Similarly, the formation of many foreign body giant cells was prevented. Finally, an increased detection of alpha smooth muscle actin was observed, showing the angiogenic properties of the elaborated scaffolds.

Conclusion: Our results show that the proposed scaffolds have improved biocompatibility and exhibit promising potential as biomaterials for elaborating tissue engineering constructs.
High-quality physiology of Alcanivorax borkumensis SK2 producing glycolipids enables efficient stirred-tank bioreactor cultivation
Authors: Karmainski Tobias , Dielentheis-Frenken Marie R. E. , Lipa Marie K. , Phan An N. T. , Blank Lars M. , Tiso Till
Published: November 2023

Glycine-glucolipid, a glycolipid, is natively synthesized by the marine bacterium Alcanivorax borkumensis SK2. A. borkumensis is a Gram-negative, non-motile, aerobic, halophilic, rod-shaped γ-proteobacterium, classified as an obligate hydrocarbonoclastic bacterium. Naturally, this bacterium exists in low cell numbers in unpolluted marine environments, but during oil spills, the cell number significantly increases and can account for up to 90% of the microbial community responsible for oil degradation. This growth surge is attributed to two remarkable abilities: hydrocarbon degradation and membrane-associated biosurfactant production. This study aimed to characterize and enhance the growth and biosurfactant production of A. borkumensis, which initially exhibited poor growth in the previously published ONR7a, a defined salt medium. Various online analytic tools for monitoring growth were employed to optimize the published medium, leading to improved growth rates and elongated growth on pyruvate as a carbon source. The modified medium was supplemented with different carbon sources to stimulate glycine-glucolipid production. Pyruvate, acetate, and various hydrophobic carbon sources were utilized for glycolipid production. Growth was monitored via online determined oxygen transfer rate in shake flasks, while a recently published hyphenated HPLC-MS method was used for glycine-glucolipid analytics. To transfer into 3 L stirred-tank bioreactor, aerated batch fermentations were conducted using n-tetradecane and acetate as carbon sources. The challenge of foam formation was overcome using bubble-free membrane aeration with acetate as the carbon source. In conclusion, the growth kinetics of A. borkumensis and glycine-glucolipid production were significantly improved, while reaching product titers relevant for applications remains a challenge.
The “direct five-step procedure” for the design of added viscous dampers to be inserted into existing buildings: formulation and case study
Authors: Marra Matteo , Palermo Michele , Silvestri Stefano
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces an updated formulation of a five-step procedure dealing with the design of fluid viscous dampers for the seismic retrofitting of existing frame buildings. The original design procedure is known as the “direct five-step procedure,” and is articulated into 5 consecutive steps guiding the designer from the identification of the expected seismic performances, to the sizing of the added viscous dampers up to the final verification of the seismic behavior through non-linear dynamic time history analyses. The procedure leads to the full definition of the mechanical characteristics of the commercial non-linear viscous dampers and allows to estimate the maximum dissipative forces acting in the dampers and the internal forces in the frame members. The objective of the design procedure, when applied to a new building, is to size the dampers in order to keep the structural elements within the linear elastic range considering a “rare” earthquake design level. However, when dealing with an existing building, especially if originally designed considering vertical loads only, the insertion of viscous dampers could be not sufficient to keep the structural elements in the elastic range. Thus, it might be necessary to accept local plastic excursion of the structural elements, by taking into account the ductility capacity (albeit probably limited) of the structural members (hysteretic dissipation associated with damage in beams and columns). This latter aspect is explicitly considered in the updated formulation of the “direct five-step procedure” presented here through the introduction of an overall response reduction factor accounting for both the ductility capacity of the structural members and the viscous damping provided by the added dampers. The design procedure is then applied to a 11-storey frame structure case study, which is representative of reinforced concrete buildings designed for vertical loads only. Three different retrofitting design strategies are considered, based on different exploitation of viscous energy dissipation provided by the dampers and hysteretic energy dissipation due to the excursion of the structural members into the inelastic regime.
Navigating dust storms and urban living: an analysis of particulate matter infiltration in Dubai’s residences
Authors: Jung Chuloh , Abdelaziz Mahmoud Naglaa Sami
Published: November 2023

In response to the growing concern of air pollution in Dubai, this study was undertaken to measure and analyze indoor and outdoor particulate matter (PM) concentrations in residential buildings during the spring dust storm period. The research focused on the infiltration of PM into indoor spaces and its impact on indoor air quality, exploring the relationship between PM particle diameter, building infiltration rates, and the indoor influence of outdoor PM. Conducted in a two-bedroom residential unit near a busy road, the study utilized particle size analysis and the indoor-outdoor (I/O) ratio for measurements. The findings revealed that smaller particles, particularly ultrafine PM2.5, had a more substantial influence on indoor PM concentrations than larger particles. It was noted that buildings with higher infiltration rates, especially those with natural ventilation, were more susceptible to outdoor PM infiltration. Additionally, the study highlighted the significant role of occupant behavior, such as cooking and cleaning, in generating indoor PM. However, further research is necessary to better understand the correlation between architectural characteristics, infiltration rates, and the indoor influence of outdoor PM in residential buildings. The study underscores the importance of improved ventilation systems, raising awareness of indoor air quality, and implementing effective mitigation strategies to reduce indoor air pollution and enhance indoor air quality in urban environments like Dubai. These findings contribute significantly to our understanding of indoor and outdoor PM dynamics, emphasizing the urgent need to address indoor air pollution in urban areas.
Unveiling the pathogenic mechanisms of NPR2 missense variants: insights into the genotype-associated severity in acromesomelic dysplasia and short stature
Authors: Badawi Sally , Varghese Divya Saro , Raj Anjana , John Anne , Al-Musafir Hamda S. , Al-Ghamari Ahmed J. , Alshamsi Alreem R. , Ouda Sara H. , Al-Dirbashi Ghayth , Ali Bassam R.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2 or NPR-B) plays a central role in growth development and bone morphogenesis and therefore loss-of-function variations in NPR2 gene have been reported to cause Acromesomelic Dysplasia, Maroteaux type 1 and short stature. While several hypotheses have been proposed to underlie the pathogenic mechanisms responsible for these conditions, the exact mechanisms, and functional characteristics of many of those variants and their correlations with the clinical manifestations have not been fully established.

Methods: In this study, we examined eight NPR2 genetic missense variants (p.Leu51Pro, p.Gly123Val, p.Leu314Arg, p.Arg318Gly, p.Arg388Gln, p.Arg495Cys, p.Arg557His, and p.Arg932Cys) Acromesomelic Dysplasia, Maroteaux type 1 and short stature located on diverse domains and broadly classified as variants of uncertain significance. The evaluated variants are either reported in patients with acromesomelic dysplasia in the homozygous state or short stature in the heterozygous state. Our investigation included the evaluation of their expression, subcellular trafficking and localization, N-glycosylation profiles, and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production activity.

Results and Discussion: Our results indicate that variants p.Leu51Pro, p.Gly123Val, p.Leu314Arg, p.Arg388Gln have defective cellular trafficking, being sequestered within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and consequently impaired cGMP production ability. Conversely, variants p.Arg318Gly, p.Arg495Cys, and p.Arg557His seem to display a non-statistically significant behavior that is slightly comparable to WT-NPR2. On the other hand, p.Arg932Cys which is located within the guanylyl cyclase active site displayed normal cellular trafficking profile albeit with defective cGMP. Collectively, our data highlights the genotype-phenotype relationship that might be responsible for the milder symptoms observed in short stature compared to acromesomelic dysplasia. This study enhances our understanding of the functional consequences of several NPR2 variants, shedding light on their mechanisms and roles in related genetic disorders which might also help in their pathogenicity re-classification.
Size compensation in Drosophila after generalised cell death
Authors: Pinal Noelia , Ruiz-Losada Mireya , Azpiazu Natalia , Morata Ginés
Published: November 2023

Regeneration is a response mechanism aimed to restore tissues that have been damaged. We are studying in the wing disc of Drosophila the regenerative response to a dose of Ionizing Radiation that kills over 35% of the cells distributed all over the disc. After such treatment the discs are able to restore normal size, indicating there is a mechanism that repairs generalised damage. We have tested the role of the JNK, JAK/STAT and Wg pathways, known to be required for regeneration after localised damage in the disc. We find that after irradiation there is size compensation in the absence of function of these pathways, indicating that they are not necessary for the compensation. Furthermore, we also find that generalised damage does not cause an increase in the proliferation rate of surviving cells. We propose that irradiated discs suffer a developmental delay and resume growth at normal rate until they reach the final stereotyped size. The delay appears to be associated with a developmental reversion, because discs undergo rejuvenation towards an earlier developmental stage. We argue that the response to generalized damage is fundamentally different from that to localized damage, which requires activity of JNK and Wg.
Sphingolipids in mitochondria—from function to disease
Authors: Jamil Maryam , Cowart Lauren Ashley
Published: November 2023

Sphingolipids are not only structural components of cellular membranes but also play vital roles in cell signaling and modulation of cellular processes. Within mitochondria, sphingolipids exert diverse effects on mitochondrial dynamics, energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and cell death pathways. In this review, we summarize literature addressing the crucial role of sphingolipids in mitochondria, highlighting their impact on mitochondrial dynamics, cellular bioenergetics, and important cell processes including apoptosis and mitophagy.
Biology of melanocytes in mammals
Authors: Cui Ying-Zhe , Man Xiao-Yong
Published: November 2023

Melanocytes, which originate from the neuroectoderm, are specialized cells responsible for producing pigments and possessing a dendritic morphology. These cells migrate to the epidermis and follicles, contributing to skin and hair pigmentation during embryonic development. The remarkable self-renewal capacity of melanocytes enables them to effectively restore hair and skin pigmentation. The synthesis of melanin to safeguard the skin against damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, as well as the enigmatic immune function of melanocytes, demonstrate their indispensable contributions to maintaining cutaneous homeostasis. The regulation of cutaneous pigmentation involves an intricate network influenced by intrinsic cellular signals within melanocytes and extracellular cues. Therefore, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the role of melanocytes in skin biology. This in-depth analysis could open novel avenues for research aimed at the prevention and treatment of skin disorders.
Posiform planting: generating QUBO instances for benchmarking
Authors: Hahn Georg , Pelofske Elijah , Djidjev Hristo N.
Published: November 2023

We are interested in benchmarking both quantum annealing and classical algorithms for minimizing quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) problems. Such problems are NP-hard in general, implying that the exact minima of randomly generated instances are hard to find and thus typically unknown. While brute forcing smaller instances is possible, such instances are typically not interesting due to being too easy for both quantum and classical algorithms. In this contribution, we propose a novel method, called posiform planting, for generating random QUBO instances of arbitrary size with known optimal solutions, and use those instances to benchmark the sampling quality of four D-Wave quantum annealers utilizing different interconnection structures (Chimera, Pegasus, and Zephyr hardware graphs) and the simulated annealing algorithm. Posiform planting differs from many existing methods in two key ways. It ensures the uniqueness of the planted optimal solution, thus avoiding groundstate degeneracy, and it enables the generation of QUBOs that are tailored to a given hardware connectivity structure, provided that the connectivity is not too sparse. Posiform planted QUBOs are a type of 2-SAT boolean satisfiability combinatorial optimization problems. Our experiments demonstrate the capability of the D-Wave quantum annealers to sample the optimal planted solution of combinatorial optimization problems with up to 5, 627 qubits.
Melatonin mitigates oxidative damage induced by anthracycline: a systematic-review and meta-analysis of murine models
Authors: Faggiano Andrea , Gherbesi Elisa , Avagimyan Ashot , Ruscica Massimiliano , Donisi Luca , Fedele Maria Antonia , Cipolla Carlo Maria , Vicenzi Marco , Carugo Stefano , Cardinale Daniela
Published: November 2023

Background

Oxidative stress induced by the excessive production of reactive oxygen species is one of the primary mechanisms implicated in anthracycline (ANT)-induced cardiotoxicity. There is a strong clinical need for a molecule capable of effectively preventing and reducing the oxidative damage caused by ANT. In vitro and in vivo studies conducted in mice have shown that melatonin stimulates the expression of antioxidative agents and reduces lipid peroxidation induced by ANT.

Methods

We investigated this issue through a meta-analysis of murine model studies. The outcome of the meta-analysis was to compare oxidative damage, estimated by products of lipid peroxidation (MDA = Malondialdehyde) and markers of oxidative stress (SOD = Superoxide Dismutase, GSH = Glutathione), along with a marker of cardiac damage (CK-MB = creatine kinase–myocardial band), assessed by measurements in heart and/or blood samples in mice undergoing ANT chemotherapy and assuming melatonin vs. controls. The PubMed, OVID-MEDLINE and Cochrane library databases were analysed to search English-language review papers published from the inception up to August 1st, 2023. Studies were identified by using Me-SH terms and crossing the following terms: “melatonin”, “oxidative stress”, “lipid peroxidation”, “anthracycline”, “cardiotoxicity”.

Results

The metanalysis included 153 mice administered melatonin before, during or immediately after ANT and 153 controls from 13 studies. Compared with controls, the levels of all oxidative stress markers were significantly better in the pooled melatonin group, with standardized mean differences (SMD) for MDA, GSH and SOD being −8.03 ± 1.2 (CI: −10.43/−5.64, p < 0.001), 7.95 ± 1.8 (CI: 4.41/11.5, p < 0.001) and 3.94 ± 1.6 (CI: 0.77/7.12, p = 0.015) respectively. Similarly, compared with controls, CK-MB levels reflecting myocardial damage were significantly lower in the pooled melatonin group, with an SMD of −4.90 ± 0.5 (CI: −5.82/−3.98, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Melatonin mitigates the oxidative damage induced by ANT in mouse model. High-quality human clinical studies are needed to further evaluate the use of melatonin as a preventative/treatment strategy for ANT-induced cardiotoxicity.
The metaverse digital environments: a scoping review of the challenges, privacy and security issues
Authors: Tukur Muhammad , Schneider Jens , Househ Mowafa , Dokoro Ahmed Haruna , Ismail Usman Idris , Dawaki Muhammad , Agus Marco
Published: November 2023

The concept of the “metaverse” has garnered significant attention recently, positioned as the “next frontier” of the internet. This emerging digital realm carries substantial economic and financial implications for both IT and non-IT industries. However, the integration and evolution of these virtual universes bring forth a multitude of intricate issues and quandaries that demand resolution. Within this research endeavor, our objective was to delve into and appraise the array of challenges, privacy concerns, and security issues that have come to light during the development of metaverse virtual environments in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a meticulous review and analysis of literature spanning from January 2020 to December 2022, we have meticulously identified and scrutinized 29 distinct challenges, along with 12 policy, privacy, and security matters intertwined with the metaverse. Among the challenges we unearthed, the foremost were concerns pertaining to the costs associated with hardware and software, implementation complexities, digital disparities, and the ethical and moral quandaries surrounding socio-control, collectively cited by 43%, 40%, and 33% of the surveyed articles, respectively. Turning our focus to policy, privacy, and security issues, the top three concerns that emerged from our investigation encompassed the formulation of metaverse rules and principles, the encroachment of privacy threats within the metaverse, and the looming challenges concerning data management, all mentioned in 43%, 40%, and 33% of the examined literature. In summation, the development of virtual environments within the metaverse is a multifaceted and dynamically evolving domain, offering both opportunities and hurdles for researchers and practitioners alike. It is our aspiration that the insights, challenges, and recommendations articulated in this report will catalyze extensive dialogues among industry stakeholders, governmental bodies, and other interested parties concerning the metaverse's destiny and the world they aim to construct or bequeath to future generations.
Challenges and opportunities for classroom-based formative assessment and AI: a perspective article
Authors: Hopfenbeck Therese N. , Zhang Zhonghua , Sun Sundance Zhihong , Robertson Pam , McGrane Joshua A.
Published: November 2023

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into educational contexts may give rise to both positive and negative ramifications for teachers’ uses of formative assessment within their classrooms. Drawing on our diverse experiences as academics, researchers, psychometricians, teachers, and teacher educators specializing in formative assessment, we examine the pedagogical practices in which teachers provide feedback, facilitate peer- and self-assessments, and support students’ learning, and discuss how existing challenges to each of these may be affected by applications of AI. Firstly, we overview the challenges in the practice of formative assessment independently of the influence of AI. Moreover, based on the authors’ varied experience in formative assessment, we discuss the opportunities that AI brings to address the challenges in formative assessment as well as the new challenges introduced by the application of AI in formative assessment. Finally, we argue for the ongoing importance of self-regulated learning and a renewed emphasis on critical thinking for more effective implementation of formative assessment in this new AI-driven digital age.
Implementation of coaching and mentoring methods in teaching Kazakh literature to the secondary school students
Authors: Karinov Abylay , Smagulov Zhandos , Takirov Sarzhan , Zhumagulov Aitbay
Published: November 2023

This paper explores the use of coaching and mentoring methods in teaching literature to secondary school students. This innovative pedagogical approach has not been previously practiced in Kazakhstani schools. The study employs a one-month coaching and mentoring initiative tailored for secondary school students. This qualitative study employed the collection of the reflective journal “life scenario” and the focus group interview with participants. The data obtained from the reflective journal and focus group interview were subjected to content analysis. The integration of coaching and mentoring methods into literature pedagogy is postulated as a catalyst for inspiring students to develop “life scenarios,” thereby propelling them towards goal achievement and academic success. Additionally, the paper suggests integrating more practical exercises from business, psychology, coaching, and mentoring in literature lessons at the secondary school level.
Amplifying similarity to promote college STEM instructor–student mentoring relationship quality: a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Du Wenyi , Lee Hyewon , Broderick Nicole A. , Aldana Cristian Cervantes , Estrada Mica , Handelsman Jo , Maldonado Natalia , Miller Sarah , Patterson Megan S. , Sandoval Perla , Hernandez Paul R.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Despite numerous (co)curricular efforts, diversifying the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) research workforce remains challenging and large segments of the U.S. population continue to be underrepresented. Promoting instructor–student mentoring relationship quality is a potentially important mechanism to support biomedical workforce diversity, as relationship quality has been positively associated with learning and persistence. We tested the impact of a “Creating Birds of a Feather” (CBoaF) intervention designed to promote perceptions of shared similarities (psychological similarity), which in turn should promote instructor-student mentoring relationship quality.

Methods

This pretest-posttest cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted with a large and diverse sample of instructors (J = 15) and the undergraduates (N = 567) enrolled in biological course-based undergraduate research experience courses at 13 universities across the U.S.

Results

Multilevel modeling results indicated that the intervention effect on undergraduates’ perceptions of psychological similarity was moderated by pretest psychological similarity. That is, among classes with low levels of similarity at pretest, the intervention group developed stronger perceptions of posttest psychological similarity than the control group, but there were no between group differences in classes with high levels of similarity at pretest. Furthermore, the intervention exhibited a positive indirect effect on posttest instructor–student mentoring relationship quality through posttest psychological similarity.

Discussion

These findings highlight the potential of the CBoaF intervention to enhance undergraduate perceptions of instructor-student psychological similarity, subsequently leading to improved instructor-student mentoring relationship quality. These insights have significant implications for initiatives that aim to promote diversity and inclusion in the STEM research workforce by emphasizing the cultivation of psychological similarity between students and instructors.
Association of periodontitis and tooth loss with extent of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shen Minhua , Li Zhen , Li Huizhi , Yan Xinfeng , Feng Bo , Xu Lei
Published: November 2023

Aim

The objective was to investigate the association of periodontitis and tooth loss with extent of diabetic coronary atherosclerosis.

Materials and methods

272 patients who were hospitalized at Shanghai East hospital and underwent a coronary artery calcium (CAC) CT scan were enrolled in this study. Individuals were grouped based on their CAC scores into a normal-to-mild coronary atherosclerosis (AS) group (0 ≤ score ≤ 100, n=184) and a moderate-to-severe group (score≥101, n=88). Periodontitis parameters and number of missing teeth were evaluated for every patient. The severity of periodontitis was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. The taxonomic composition of the microbiota was determined using full-length 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Salivary inflammatory factors were tested by ELISA.

Results

Clinical attachment loss (CAL) (P =0.05) and the number of teeth lost (P = 0.016) were significantly higher in the moderate-to-severe coronary AS group, with these differences being more obvious in younger patients and patients with short-duration diabetes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that CAL (OR = 1.231, 95% CI = 1.066–1.214, P = 0.047) and having 10–19 missing teeth (OR = 1.604, 95% CI = 1.393–6.555, P = 0.05) were strongly associated with the presence of moderate-to-severe coronary AS. Salivary IL-6 and TNF-α levels, as well as levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Neisseria mucosa, were significantly elevated in the moderate-to-severe coronary AS group.

Conclusion

It was found that both tooth loss and CAL were related to the extent of diabetic coronary AS. Saliva inflammatory factors and oral bacteremia may be new biomarkers for moderate-to-severe coronary AS.