bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aplikasi Mesin Selep Padi 2 in 1 Sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Mutu Hasil Panen Poktan Desa Bunton Malang
Authors: Tsamroh Dewi Izzatus , Santi Fitriana , Setyawan Pungky Eka , Yazirin Cepi , Fadillah Rahmat Fahil , Anitasari Silvi
Published: June 2024

Poktan Rahayu is a farmer group in Bunton Village, Wagir District, Malang Regency, which is capable of producing 200 tons of rice each harvest. However, abundant harvests are not balanced by good post-harvest processing. This was caused by the performance of the rice grinding machine previously owned by Poktan Rahayu which was outdated so that the milling produced incomplete rice. Unhulled rice does not attract market share, thus, Poktan Rahayu usually sell their harvest in the form of unhulled rice, which is half the price of rice. The aim of carrying out this service activity is to improve the quality of the Poktan Rahayu harvest processing results through the application of a 2 in 1 rice mill machine. The implementation of this activity is carried out through a training process and science and technology substitution. The results of this activity show an increase in the quality of milled rice. Apart from producing good quality and marketable rice, milling by-products such as bran and rice bran can also be utilized by Poktan Rahayu members.ABSTRAKPoktan Rahayu merupakan kelompok tani di Desa Bunton, Kecamatan Wagir, Kabupaten Malang, yang mampu menghasilkan padi sebanyak 200 ton setiap kali panen. Akan tetapi, hasil panen yang melimpah tidak diimbangi dengan pengolahan pasca panen yang baik. Hal ini disebabkan oleh performa mesin selep padi yang dimiliki oleh Poktan Rahayu sebelumnya sudah usang sehingga hasil selepannya menghasilkan beras yang tidak utuh. Tentunya beras yang tidak utuh tidak diminati pangsa pasar sehingga biasanya para anggota Poktan Rahayu menjual hasil panen mereka dalam bentuk gabah, yang mana harganya separuh dari harga beras. Tujuan dari pelaksanaan kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah untuk meningkatkan kualitas hasil pengolahan panen Poktan Rahayu melalui aplikasi mesin selep padi 2 in 1. Pelaksanaan kegiatan ini dilaksanakan melalui proses pelatihan dan substitusi ipteks. Hasil dari kegiatan ini menunjukkan adanya peningkatan kualitas beras hasil selepan. Selain menghasilkan beras dengan kualitas baik dan layak jual, hasil samping selepan seperti dedak dan bekatul juga dapat dimanfaatkan oleh anggota Poktan Rahayu.
Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Melalui Pengolahan Daun Mint Menjadi Teh Mint Yang Kaya Manfaat di Daerah Blimbing Kota Malang
Authors: Arvianti Eri Yusnita , Sasmito Cahyo , Santosa Budi
Published: June 2024

Mint leaf tea is an instant herbal drink product that is prepared by drying mint leaves to a certain degree of dryness using hot sunlight or a special oven to dry mint leaves. This preparation aims to extend the shelf life and generate additional income for the company as well as being one of the company's business development ideas. The aim of this community service is to provide counseling, assistance and additional insight and knowledge about the benefits and methods of processing mint leaves into mint tea bags which can be consumed instantly by the community. The results of this community service : 1. enable the community to understand the benefits of mint plants; 2. develop mint plants so that they can increase sales value and community income; 3. can find out how to process mint leaves.ABSTRAKTeh daun mint adalah produk minuman herbal instan yang diolah dengan cara mengeringan daun mint dengan tingkat kekeringan tertentu menggunakan panas sinar matahari ataupun oven khusus pengering daun mint. Olahan tersebut bertujuan untuk memperpanjang masa simpan dan menjadikan pendapatan tambahan untuk perusahaan serta sebagai salah satu ide pengembangan bisnis perusahaan. Tujuan dari pengabdian masyarakat ini adalah memberikan penyuluhan, pendampingan dan tambahan wawasan serta pengetahuan tentang manfaat dan cara pengolahan daun mint menjadi teh mint celup yang dapat dikonsumsi secara instan oleh masyarakat. Hasil pengabdian masyarakat ini : 1. membuat masyarakan dapat memahami manfaat dari tanaman mint; 2. mengembangkan tanaman mint sehingga dapat menambah nilai jual dan pendapatan masyarakat; 3. dapat mengetahui cara pengolahan daun mint.
Characterization of Biodiesel Quality from Transesterification of Palm Oil Using Homogeneous Catalysts KOH and NaOH
Authors: Rastini Endah Kusuma , Jimmy Jimmy
Published: June 2024

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel as an alternative fuel in diesel engines. Its use can be combined with petrodiesel. Making biodiesel with a homogeneous catalyst (KOH/NaOH) requires low production costs. This research was conducted to determine the physical and chemical characteristics of biodiesel products using a homogeneous catalyst from food-grade palm oil, which was worked at room temperature, with a stirring time of 8 minutes (200 rpm), the reaction time of 4 hours with a mole ratio of methanol: oil 6:1. The results of the feasibility test for density (KOH 859 kg/m3, NaOH 868 kg/m3) and viscosity (KOH 2.70 cSt, NaOH 3.08 cSt) show that biodiesel meets the quality requirements of biofuels. FFA feasibility test results, acid number, total glycerol, saponification number, and alkyl ester content for biodiesel with KOH catalyst (0.205%, 0.3716 mg ̶ KOH/g, 0.012% ̶ mass, 58.99 mg ̶KOH/g, 99.074% ̶mass, respectively) has met the quality requirements. However, the glycerol content for NaOH has not met the quality requirements for biofuels, so it is necessary to review the optimum conditions. Further testing of biodiesel quality by applying it to diesel engines is required for production feasibility. ABSTRAKBiodiesel merupakan bahan bakar terbarukan sebagai alternatif bahan bakar pada mesin diesel. Penggunaannya dapat dikombinasi dengan petrodiesel. Pembuatan biodiesel dengan katalis homogen (KOH/NaOH) memerlukan biaya produksi yang murah. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk menentukan karakteristik fisika dan kimia produk biodiesel dengan katalis homogen dari minyak kelapa sawit food grade yang dikerjakan pada temperatur kamar, waktu pengadukan 8 menit (200 rpm), waktu reaksi 4 jam dengan rasio mol methanol:minyak 6:1. Hasil pengujian kelayakan terhadap massa jenis (KOH 859 kg/m3, NaOH 868 kg/m3) dan viskositas (KOH 2,70 cSt, NaOH 3,08 cSt) menunjukkan bahwa biodiesel telah memenuhi syarat mutu bahan bakar nabati. Hasil pengujian kelayakan FFA, bilangan asam, gliserol total, bilangan penyabunan dan kadar ester alkil untuk biodiesel dengan katalis KOH (berturut-turut 0,205%, 0,3716 mg ̶ KOH/g, 0,012% ̶ massa, 58,99 mg ̶ KOH/g, 99,074% ̶ massa) telah memenuhi syarat mutu, namun untuk NaOH kadar gliserol belum memenuhi syarat mutu bahan bakar nabati sehingga perlu dikaji ulang kondisi optimumnya. Pengujian lanjutan kualitas biodiesel dengan mengaplikasikan pada mesin diesel diperlukan untuk kelayakan produksi.
Effect of Apple Dregs Mass and Processing Time on Pectin Extraction from Apple Dregs
Authors: Belo Roberto Mario , Mediaswanti Kun Aussieanita
Published: June 2024

Apples have the opportunity to develop their potential to the fullest. In the process of taking apple cider, apple dregs will be obtained. The dregs can be further processed or extracted to obtain pectin. This research was conducted to determine the optimum extraction time and mass to produce pectin from apple dregs. The experimental procedure includes raw material preparation, extraction, distillation, drying, and yield analysis. The method used is solid-liquid extraction using ethanol solvent. Time and mass of apple dregs and temperature according to the changing variables that have been determined, namely for the variable extraction time 120 minutes, 150 minutes, and 180 minutes, while the mass of dry apple dregs was 65 grams, 70 grams, and 75 grams while the operating temperature remained 70°C and the precipitating agent used is alcohol or 95% ethanol with 50% acetic acid as a solvent, as well as analysis of pectin content by spectrophotometry (UV-VIS). The study results showed the lowest concentration of 0.002 ppm and the lowest absorbance of 0.006 nm. Where the highest concentration is 2.5 ppm, and the highest absorbance is 0.241 nm, a calibration curve is formed linearly where y = 0.0936x + 0.0111 and R2 = 0.9931. From the results of the graphical analysis of the relationship between the effect of concentration and mass on time in the apple dregs pectin extraction process, the highest concentration was 1.9 ppm at mass 70 with a time of 180 minutes, and the lowest concentration was 0.7 ppm at mass 65 with a time of 120 minutes.
Effect of Latex Rubber as Asphalt Additive to the Characteristics of AC-WC Mixture
Authors: Sucipto Prayogi Adi , Utami Adita , Rahmatunnisa Syifa Nurhaliza , Saputra Syawaldi , Brawijaya Brawijaya
Published: June 2024

Quality improvement can be achieved by making innovations in the development of rubber asphalt material. This research was conducted to determine the effect of adding natural rubber as an additive to the wear-resistant Laston mixture (AC-WC). This study made 33 total samples, which were divided into 18 conventional asphalt mixtures and 15 rubber asphalt mixtures, with normal asphalt variations ranging from 5.5% - 8% and for rubber with variations of 5% - 7% of optimum asphalt weight, respectively each with an interval (0.5 %). It was mixed using a wet process. Based on the 2018 General Highways Specifications, Optimum Asphalt Content (OAC) was obtained at 7.5% and Optimum Rubber Content (ORC) at 6%. The test results for the stability and melting values of normal asphalt were 1786.22 kg and 3.56 mm, while the tests for the stability and melting values for rubber asphalt were 1181.22 kg and 3.6 mm. It can be interpreted that adding this rubber content increases the stability of the value 2x greater than the point where the stability value falls on the normal asphalt content variation of 8%.
Pelatihan Pengurusan Jenazah Bagi Warga Rw Xi Kelurahan Tulusrejo Kecamatan Lowokwaru Kota Malang
Authors: Zakaria Nanak , Kristina Widjajanti  , Hadiwiyatno  , Yulianto Ahmad Wilda , Dianthy Marya
Published: June 2024

Kematian merupakan hal yang pasti bagi seluruh manusia yang sudah ditentukan oleh Allah SWT. Tinggal bagaimana kita merpersiapkan diri untuk menghadapi datangnya kematian, sebaik baik bekal adalah taqwa, oleh karena itu mari kita senantiasa meningkatkan keimanan kita, memperbaiki kualitas sholat kita, mejalin tali silatuh rahim yang pernah terputus, dan senantiasa berlapang dada memaafkan kesalahan saudara(i) kita yang pernah berbuat salah hingga kita mempunyai persiapan bekal yang cukup sebelum kematian menjemput kita. Kematian adalah suatu kepastian. Seorang muslim yang meninggal dunia punya hak yang harus ditunaikan oleh kaum muslimin yang masih hidup sebagai kewajiban kifayah yang bila sudah ditunaikan oleh sekelompok orang akan menggugurkan kewajiban bagi yang lain. Pengurusan jenazah yang dimaksud di sini adalah mayat dimandikan, dikafani, dishalatkan, dan dikuburkan. Namun masih banyak dari umat muslim yang hingga kini tidak mengetahui secara mendetail mengenai proses sholat serta pengurusan jenazah. Pengurusan jenazah termasuk didalamnya sholat jenazah dan hukum dari shalat jenazah adalah fardu kifayah (kewajiban yang ditujukan kepada orang banyak, tetapi bila sebagian sudah melaksanakan maka gugurlah kewajiban bagi yang lain). Oleh karena itu penting kiranya warga RW XI kelurahan Tulusrejo Kecamatan Lowokwaru dibekali dengan adanya pelatihan pengurusan jenazah.
Sistem Manajemen Informasi Produk Anyaman Bambu Di Desa Duwet Kecamatan Tumpang Kabupaten Malang
Authors: Batubulan Kadek Suarjuna , Shoumi Milyun Ni'ma , Firdaus Annisa Taufika , Firdaus Vipkas Al Hadid , Ismail Ade , Ardiansyah Rizky
Published: June 2024

Di era globalisasi dan perdagangan bebas, efek persaingan komersial semakin terasa, tercermin dari meningkatnya saling ketergantungan ekonomi antar negara. Keberhasilan UMKM banyak bergantung pada strategi dalam menggunakan produknya, dan dalam bisnisnya, strategi penjualan dan strategi pemasaran merupakan strategi yang digunakan UMKM secara luas dalam situasi persaingan. Beberapa pengabdian sebelumnya menunjukkan bahwa strategi promosi yang meliputi sistem manajemen produk anyaman bambu dapat memberikan dampak positif terhadap penjualan. Hasil penjualan Kelompok Pengrajin Bambu Desa Duwet lemah karena hanya produk yang kurang termanajemen dengan baik, sehingga rata-rata hasil penjualan juga rendah. Solusi untuk mengatasi permasalahan yang dihadapi kelompok pengrajin anyaman bambu adalah dengan membuat dibuatkan sistem manajemen produksi dengan kelompok pengrajin anyaman bambu.
Workshop Perancangan dan Pemasangan Instalasi Pompa Otomatis Pada PT Tanduria Agromedia Indonesia
Authors: Harrij Mukti K.  , Ahmad Hermawan  , Afidah Zuroida  , Galuh Prawestri Citra Handani  , Satria Luthfi Hermawan  , Epiwardi
Published: June 2024

PT Tanduria Agromedia Indonesia berdiri pada tahun 2021 yang bergerak di bidang urban farming, homegarden, serta berfokus pada bidang edukasi bertanam dan retail peralatan perkebunan. Melalui konsep urban farming proses penanaman dapat dilakukan di wilayah perkotaan dengan memanfaatkan ruang terbuka untuk menghasilkan produk pertanian. Sejauh ini sistem penyiraman yang digunakan di kebun masih dilakukan secara manual dan berakibat pada produktifitas tanaman. Selain itu juga menyebabkan irigasi tanaman yang belum merata pada setiap area penanaman. Di sisi lain proses pengisian tandon air yang manual kadangkala menyebabkan tandon tidak dapat terisi setiap saat ataupun terjadi luberan air yang menyebabkan pemborosan. Salah satu teknik penyiraman yang bisa digunakan adalah irigasi tetes (drip irrigation) untuk komoditas yang diusahakan mempunyai ekonomis tinggi. Kegiatan pemberdayaan masyarakat dilakukan melalui workshop berupa pelatihan perencanaan dan pemasangan pompa air dengan sistem irigasi tetes (drip irrigation) di daerah Genting Merjosari Kecamatan Lowokwaru Malang. Pelatihan dilaksanakan pada tanggal 19 Mei 2023 dan dihadiri sebanyak 10 orang pegawai. Setelah adanya pelatihan ini, UMKM dapat memiliki pengetahuan tentang perancangan sistem irigasi yang sesuai dengan kondisi lingkungan UMKM untuk memenuhi kebutuhan air pada sistem urban farming.
Kontrol Otomatis Pompa Submersibel untuk Pemenuhan Sanitasi Air di Asrama 2 SMAN 2 TARUNA Bhayangkara Jawa Timur
Authors: Amalia Rahma , Ika Noersyamsiana  , Ruwah Joto  , Masnurul Achmadiah  , Yanik Lailinas
Published: June 2024

Sanitasi air yang ada di suatu lembaga pendidikan juga sangat dibutuhkan mengingat dapat mendukung proses kegiatan belajar mengajar yang nantinya prestasi peserta didik dapat ditingkatkan secara maksimal, terlebih saat ini pembelajaran tatap muka pasca covid telah diberlakukan di banyak sekolah di Indonesia. SMA Taruna Bhayangkara terletak di kota Banyuwangi Jawa Timur merupakan salah satu sekolah yang memiliki fasilitas asrama namun masih memiliki kekurangan dalam hal sanitasi yang belum terpenuhi secara maksimal.  Sekolah tersebut masih belum memiliki toilet dan kamar mandi di lingkungan asrama, sehingga para siswa yang tinggal di asrama tersebut terpaksa harus berjalan ratusan meter ke toilet sekolah. Tahun ini pihak sekolah sudah mulai membangun sarana toilet dan kamar mandi di lingkungan asrama, tetapi untuk sanitasinya masih belum terbangun. Menindaklanjuti situasi tersebut, maka kami selaku tim Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat memberikan inisiatif mendukung program pembangunan sanitasi di lingkungan asrama dengan menyediakan pembangunan kontrol pompa submersible secara otomatis dengan kontrol analog dan membuat sistem    sanitasi yang terdiri dengan beberapa valve, sehingga nantinya selain ketersediaan  air di asrama SMA Taruna Bhayangkara terpenuhi, penghematan energi listrik dan air juga dapat dikontrol secara maksimal. Dengan adanya kontrol otomatis pompa air tersebut maka penghematan akan pengeluaran biaya energi listrik dapat terwujud.
Finite element analysis of endoscopic cross-overtop decompression for single-segment lumbar spinal stenosis based on real clinical cases
Authors: Ding Yiwei , Zhang Hanshuo , Jiang Qiang , Li Tusheng , Liu Jiang , Lu Zhengcao , Yang Guangnan , Cui Hongpeng , Lou Fengtong , Dong Zhifeng , Shuai Mei , Ding Yu
Published: June 2024

Introduction: For severe degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS), the conventional percutaneous endoscopic translaminar decompression (PEID) has some limitations. The modified PEID, Cross-Overtop decompression, ensures sufficient decompression without excessive damage to the facet joints and posterior complex integrity.

Objectives: To evaluate the biomechanical properties of Cross-Overtop and provide practical case validation for final decision-making in severe DLSS treatment.

Methods: A finite element (FE) model of L4-L5 (M0) was established, and the validity was verified against prior studies. Endo-ULBD (M1), Endo-LOVE (M2), and Cross-Overtop (M3) models were derived from M0 using the experimental protocol. L4-L5 segments in each model were evaluated for the range of motion (ROM) and disc Von Mises stress extremum. The real clinical Cross-Overtop model was constructed based on clinical CT images, disregarding paraspinal muscle influence. Subsequent validation using actual FE analysis results enhances the credibility of the preceding virtual FE analysis.

Results: Compared with M0, ROM in surgical models were less than 10°, and the growth rate of ROM ranged from 0.10% to 11.56%, while those of disc stress ranged from 0% to 15.75%. Compared with preoperative, the growth rate of ROM and disc stress were 2.66%–11.38% and 1.38%–9.51%, respectively. The ROM values in both virtual and actual models were less than 10°, verifying the affected segment stability after Cross-Overtop decompression.

Conclusion: Cross-Overtop, designed for fully expanding the central canal and contralateral recess, maximizing the integrity of the facet joints and posterior complex, does no significant effect on the affected segmental biomechanics and can be recommended as an effective endoscopic treatment for severe DLSS.
Unveiling the mechanism of photothermal therapy in acne man-agement: targeting sebaceous gland ferroptosis via umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell membrane-encapsulated Au-Ag-PDA
Authors: Wu Ronghui , Li Jing , Tian Hao , Song Dandan , Zhao Tianqi , Tian Yangyang , Zouboulis Christos C. , Jiang Jinlan , Zhu Mingji
Published: June 2024

Background

Branched gold and silver nanoparticles coated with polydopamine (Au-Ag-PDA) demonstrate high photothermal conversion efficiency. Utilizing umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell membranes (MSCM) as an effective drug delivery system, our preliminary studies investigated the suppression of sebum secretion in sebaceous glands using MSCM-coated Au-Ag-PDA nano-particles (Au-Ag-PDA@MSCM) combined with 808 nm laser irradiation, showing potential for dermatological applications in acne treatment.

Methods

This study employs proteomic analysis, complemented by subsequent techniques such as Western blotting (WB), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and transmission electron microscopy, to further investigate the differential mechanisms by which Au-Ag-PDA and Au-Ag-PDA@MSCM-mediated photothermal therapy (PTT) suppress sebum secretion.

Results

Our proteomic analysis indicated mitochondrial respiratory chain damage in sebaceous gland tissues post-PTT, with further validation revealing ferroptosis in sebaceous cells and tissues. Acyl-CoA Synthetase Long-Chain Family Member 4 (Acsl4) has been identified as a critical target, with Au-Ag-PDA@MSCM demonstrating enhanced ferroptotic effects.

Conclusion

These findings significantly advance our understanding of how PTT mediated by Au-Ag-PDA@MSCM nanoparticles reduces sebum secretion and underscore the pivotal role of MSCM in inducing ferroptosis in sebaceous glands, thus providing a robust theoretical foundation for employing PTT via specific molecular pathways in acne treatment.
A framework for design wind loads on air-permeable multilayer cladding systems
Authors: Miller Connell S. , Kopp Gregory A.
Published: June 2024

Air-permeable multilayer cladding (vinyl siding, roof pavers, discontinuous metal roofing, solar panels, etc.) are one of the most common types of building components in North America. Their defining aerodynamic feature is that they have an air cavity separating the component from the sheathing, studs, or interior layer. Due to air-permeability, external wind loads can transfer into the air cavity between the layers. Although these cladding systems have similar geometries in many ways, design loads are not generally available for such systems. This study aims to synthesize the available literature on the pressure equalization factor, which is the proportion of external load acting on the cladding and provide a framework for design wind loads on air-permeable multilayer cladding systems. To accomplish this, the many factors that affect the pressure equalization factor, such as the gap-to-cavity-depth ratio, panel size, and exposure are discussed. Then, the pressure equalization factors from multiple studies are combined to examine the effect of effective area on the pressure equalization factor. Finally, recommendations for implementing these guidelines into design standards are provided.
Extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) characteristics in the bile and plasma of advanced perihilar cholangiocarcinoma patients and the construction of an eccDNA-related gene prognosis model
Authors: Fu Shijie , Dai Yuyang , Zhang Pengjun , Zheng Kanglian , Cao Guang , Xu Liang , Zhong Yujie , Niu Chuanxin , Wang Xiaodong
Published: June 2024

Extrachromosomal DNAs (eccDNAs) frequently carry amplified oncogenes. This investigation aimed to examine the occurrence and role of eccDNAs in individuals diagnosed with advanced perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) who exhibited distinct prognostic outcomes. Five patients with poor survival outcomes and five with better outcomes were selected among patients who received first-line hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy from June 2021 to June 2022. The extracted eccDNAs were amplified for high-throughput sequencing. Genes associated with the differentially expressed eccDNAs were analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. The differentially expressed bile eccDNA-related genes were used to construct a prognostic model. Across all 10 patients, a total of 19,024 and 3,048 eccDNAs were identified in bile and plasma, respectively. The concentration of eccDNA detected in the bile was 9-fold higher than that in plasma. The chromosome distribution of the eccDNAs were similar between bile and matched plasma. GO and KEGG pathway analyses showed enrichment in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Wnt/β-catenin pathways in patients with poor survival outcomes. According to the prognostic model constructed by eccDNA-related genes, the high-risk group of cholangiocarcinoma patients displayed significantly shorter overall survival (p < 0.001). Moreover, the degree of infiltration of immunosuppressive cells was higher in patients in the high-risk group. In conclusion, EccDNA could be detected in bile and plasma of pCCA patients, with a higher concentration. A prognostic model based on eccDNA-related genes showed the potential to predict the survival and immune microenvironment of patients with cholangiocarcinoma.
Benchmarking quantum annealing with maximum cardinality matching problems
Authors: Vert Daniel , Willsch Madita , Yenilen Berat , Sirdey Renaud , Louise Stéphane , Michielsen Kristel
Published: June 2024

We benchmark Quantum Annealing (QA) vs. Simulated Annealing (SA) with a focus on the impact of the embedding of problems onto the different topologies of the D-Wave quantum annealers. The series of problems we study are especially designed instances of the maximum cardinality matching problem that are easy to solve classically but difficult for SA and, as found experimentally, not easy for QA either. In addition to using several D-Wave processors, we simulate the QA process by numerically solving the time-dependent Schrödinger equation. We find that the embedded problems can be significantly more difficult than the unembedded problems, and some parameters, such as the chain strength, can be very impactful for finding the optimal solution. Thus, finding a good embedding and optimal parameter values can improve the results considerably. Interestingly, we find that although SA succeeds for the unembedded problems, the SA results obtained for the embedded version scale quite poorly in comparison with what we can achieve on the D-Wave quantum annealers.
ILP-based resource optimization realized by quantum annealing for optical wide-area communication networks—A framework for solving combinatorial problems of a real-world application by quantum annealing
Authors: Witt Arthur , Kim Jangho , Körber Christopher , Luu Thomas
Published: June 2024

Resource allocation of wide-area internet networks is inherently a combinatorial optimization problem that if solved quickly, could provide near real-time adaptive control of internet-protocol traffic ensuring increased network efficacy and robustness, while minimizing energy requirements coming from power-hungry transceivers. In recent works we demonstrated how such a problem could be cast as a quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) problem that can be embedded onto the D-Wave Advantage™ quantum annealer system, demonstrating proof of principle. Our initial studies left open the possibility for improvement of D-Wave solutions via judicious choices of system run parameters. Here we report on our investigations for optimizing these system parameters, and how we incorporate machine learning (ML) techniques to further improve on the quality of solutions. In particular, we use the Hamming distance to investigate correlations between various system-run parameters and solution vectors. We then apply a decision tree neural network (NN) to learn these correlations, with the goal of using the neural network to provide further guesses to solution vectors. We successfully implement this NN in a simple integer linear programming (ILP) example, demonstrating how the NN can fully map out the solution space that was not captured by D-Wave. We find, however, for the 3-node network problem the NN is not able to enhance the quality of space of solutions.
Energy-efficient, low-latency, and non-contact eye blink detection with capacitive sensing
Authors: Liu Mengxi , Bian Sizhen , Zhao Zimin , Zhou Bo , Lukowicz Paul
Published: June 2024

This work described a novel non-contact, wearable, real-time eye blink detection solution based on capacitive sensing technology. A custom-built prototype employing low-cost and low-power consumption capacitive sensors was integrated into standard glasses, with a copper tape electrode affixed to the frame. The blink of an eye induces a variation in capacitance between the electrode and the eyelid, thereby generating a distinctive capacitance-related signal. By analyzing this signal, eye blink activity can be accurately identified. The effectiveness and reliability of the proposed solution were evaluated through five distinct scenarios involving eight participants. Utilizing a user-dependent detection method with a customized predefined threshold value, an average precision of 92% and a recall of 94% were achieved. Furthermore, an efficient user-independent model based on the two-bit precision decision tree was further applied, yielding an average precision of 80% and an average recall of 81%. These results demonstrate the potential of the proposed technology for real-world applications requiring precise and unobtrusive eye blink detection.
Causal association between blood metabolites and risk of hypertension: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cheng Tao , Yun Zhangjun , Fan Shaowei , Wang Huan , Xue Wenjing , Zhang Xuesong , Jia Bochao , Hu Yuanhui
Published: June 2024

Background

Previous studies have indicated a strong link between blood metabolites and hypertension, however the causality of metabolites and hypertension is unknown.

Methods

Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to assess the causal relationship between 486 blood metabolites and essential hypertension (EHT). Blood metabolite GWAS data was utilized as the exposure, with EHT GWAS data as the outcome. To further verify the results, another different source of EHT GWAS data was repeatedly analyzed. The major MR analytic approach used to determine causality was inverse variance weighted (IVW), with MR-Egger, Weighted Median, and MR-PRESSO models serving as supplements. We used the Cochran Q test to examine heterogeneity. Horizontal pleiotropy was examined using MR-Egger intercept and MR-PRESSO global test. The MR Steiger test confirmed the causal relationship between blood metabolites and EHT.

Results

In this study, nine blood metabolites associated with EHT were preliminarily identified by MR analysis, including four known metabolites (N-acetylornithine, X-12510–2-aminooctanoic acid, creatine, hexadecanedioate) and five unknown metabolites. Then another source of EHT GWAS data was repeatedly analyzed for further verification, and two overlapped metabolites (N-acetylornithine, X-12510-2-aminooctanoic acid) were found. There was a negative correlation between N-acetylornithine and EHT (OR = 0.987, 95% CI = 0.980–0.993, P = 1.01 × 10−4), Cochran's Q test suggested there was no heterogeneity (Q = 31.7586, P = 0.1331), MR-Egger intercept and MR-PRESSO global test suggested there was no horizontal pleiotropy (P > 0.05), Leave-one-out analysis indicated that no single single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) had a significant effect on the results, and MR Steiger test confirmed that the direction of causality was correct (P < 0.001). There was a negative correlation between X-12510-2-aminooctanoic acid and EHT (OR = 0.982, 95% CI = 0.972–0.993, P = 0.0017), and there was no evidence of heterogeneity or pleiotropy in multiple sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

The study discovered some blood metabolites causally linked to EHT, which might lead to new understandings of the pathophysiology of hypertension.
Hazard assessment of seismic-collapsed loess landslides on the Loess Plateau as exemplified by the M6.2 earthquake in Jishishan County, China
Authors: Wang Yali , Wang Ping , Chang Wenbin , Wang Huijuan , Xu Shiyang , Xu Shuya , Yu Haoran
Published: June 2024

The Loess Plateau is marked by intense neotectonic activity and frequent earthquakes. Its unique physico-mechanical properties, combined with the granular overhead pore structure of loess, render it prone to seismic landslides triggered by strong earthquakes. Different types of loess seismic landslides have distinct formation mechanisms, disaster-causing characteristics, and risk assessment programs. In this study, the risk of seismic-collapsed loess landslides as one of the types of loess seismic landslides was evaluated on the Loess Plateau. A risk zoning map for seismic-collapsed loess landslides on the Loess Plateau, considering various exceedance probabilities, was compiled by assessing eight factors. These factors include peak ground acceleration, microstructure of loess, and were evaluated using both the minimum disaster-causing seismic peak ground acceleration zoning method and the analytic hierarchy process. The following conclusions were obtained: (1) Earthquakes are the primary inducing factor for seismic-collapsed loess landslides, with other factors serving as influencers, among which the microstructure of loess carries the highest weight; (2) Across various exceedance probabilities, the likelihood of seismic-collapsed loess landslides occurring at 63% of the 50-year exceedance probability is low. Moreover, as the minimum hazard-causing seismic peak ground acceleration increases, the risk of occurrence of seismic-collapsed loess landslides rises, leading to a gradual expansion of the area share in moderate and high-risk zones; (3) Hazard evaluation results align well with existing data on seismic-collapsed loess landslides and findings from field investigations. The case of seismic-collapsed loess landslides induced by the M6.2 magnitude earthquake in Jishishan County, China, is presented as an illustration. The combined use of the minimum hazard-causing seismic peak ground acceleration zoning method and the analytic hierarchy process method offers a reference for geohazard hazard assessment, with earthquakes as the primary inducing factor and other factors as influencers.
“If I were the mother…”: fostering perspective taking in German teacher education
Authors: Pöhler Maike , Briese Fiona J. , Kinder Annette
Published: June 2024

Higher perspective taking skills are associated with better social functioning and improved social relationships. Generally, teachers are willing to take the perspective of their students, but it is unclear whether the same is true for the perspective of parents. As communication and conflicts with parents are pervasive, the motivation and willingness to adopt the perspective of parents in counseling situations should be promoted during university teacher training. Therefore, we investigated the promotion of perspective taking among teachers in training and focused mainly on perspective taking toward parents. We developed a case-based learning task in which teachers in training from Freie Universität Berlin (N = 515) prepared for a fictitious upcoming consultation with a mother about her son. Because it is unclear if direct instruction for perspective taking is necessary in order to promote it, we also used indirect instruction to investigate whether preparing for the consultation under these instructions fostered the willingness to adopt the perspective of students and parents. In the direct instruction participants were directly told to take the perspective of the fictitious mother when evaluating and developing formulations for the consultation. The indirect instruction did not mention the concept of perspective taking but asked participants to focus on the comprehensibility of the formulations. We obtained three measures: the willingness to take a perspective, the attitude toward another person, and the emotional and empathic language used in written texts. With our main result we demonstrated that the willingness to adopt the perspective of both students and parents could be significantly promoted by both instructions. We further demonstrated that a higher willingness to take another’s perspective is associated with a more positive attitude toward the mother, as well as increased positive emotions and empathic concern. Additionally, we replicated results of a previous study showing a generally higher willingness to take the student perspective prior to the intervention. Results are discussed regarding the benefits of promoting perspective taking, especially toward parents, in teacher education.
Association between triglyceride glucose index and breast cancer in 142,184 Chinese adults: findings from the REACTION study
Authors: Wu Xueyan , Wang Shuangyuan , Lin Lin , Jia Xiaojing , Hu Chunyan , Qi Hongyan , Lin Hong , Zheng Ruizhi , Li Mian , Xu Yu , Xu Min , Chen Lulu , Zeng Tianshu , Hu Ruying , Ye Zhen , Shi Lixin , Su Qing , Yu Xuefeng , Yan Li , Wang Tiange , Zhao Zhiyun , Zheng Jie , Qin Guijun , Wan Qin , Chen Gang , Dai Meng , Tang Xulei , Gao Zhengnan , Shen Feixia , Gu Xuejiang , Luo Zuojie , Qin Yingfen , Chen Li , Hou Xinguo , Huo Yanan , Li Qiang , Wang Guixia , Zhang Yinfei , Liu Chao , Wang Youmin , Wu Shengli , Yang Tao , Deng Huacong , Zhao Jiajun , Mu Yiming , Ning Guang , Wang Weiqing , Bi Yufang , Chen Yuhong , Lu Jieli
Published: June 2024

Background

The triglyceride glucose (TyG) index has been associated with an increased risk in breast cancer. However, this association remains unclear among the Chinese population. This study aimed to investigate whether the TyG index is associated with the risk of prevalent breast cancer in Chinese women.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 142,184 women from the REACTION (Risk Evaluation of Cancers in Chinese Diabetic Individuals: A Longitudinal) Study, which recruited adults aged 40 years or older from 25 centers across mainland China between 2011 and 2012. The TyG index was calculated according to the formula: Ln (fasting triglycerides [mg/dL] × fasting glucose [mg/dL]/2). Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to evaluate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) regarding the associations between the TyG index and breast cancer.

Results

Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that compared with the lowest quartile of the TyG index, the highest quartile of the TyG index was significantly associated with an increased risk of prevalent breast cancer, with an OR (95% CI) of 1.61 (1.19–2.17). In the stratified analysis, the association of each 1 SD increase in the TyG index with risk of prevalent breast cancer was more dominant in individuals with menarche at age 13–17, those who were postmenopausal, those with a history of breastfeeding, and those who had two to four children, with the ORs (95% CIs) of 1.35 (1.09–1.68), 1.27 (1.05–1.54), 1.26 (1.05–1.52), and 1.32 (1.08–1.62), respectively. Moreover, among those without discernible insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance [HOMA-IR] ≥2.5), hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, each 1 SD increase in the TyG index was associated with a 1.36-fold increase in breast cancer risk, with an OR (95% CI) of 2.36 (1.44–3.87).

Conclusion

The TyG index is significantly associated with the prevalent breast cancer risk among middle-aged and elderly Chinese women.
Mendelian randomization unraveled: gender-specific insights into obesity-related phenotypes and colorectal cancer susceptibility
Authors: Chen Xinyi , Yang Mu , Zhao Weiheng , Tu Jingyao , Liu Qingxu , Yuan Xianglin
Published: June 2024

Objective

Evidence has been increasingly pointing towards a potential link between phenotypes related to obesity and the incidence of colorectal cancer. However, confirming this as a direct causal connection remains elusive. This investigation aims to elucidate the causative links between obesity-associated phenotypes and the incidence of colorectal cancer.

Methods

Employing the Two Sample Mendelian Randomization (TwoSampleMR) R package, analyses were conducted using Mendelian randomization (MR) to discern potential causative links between obesity categories sourced from both the Institute for Education and University (IEU) Open GWAS Project and Zenodo, and colorectal tumors (data obtained from IEU Open GWAS and FinnGen). For primary evaluations, the study utilized the Wald ratio and the Inverse Variance Weighting (IVW) methods, while the MR-Egger approach was integrated for sensitivity assessment. Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization (Bidirectional MR), as well as Linkage Disequilibrium (LD) Score Regression with well-imputed HapMap3 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), were additionally executed. Sensitivity assessments entailed IVW, MR-Egger methodologies to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy, along with a leave-one-out strategy. Instrumental variables were chosen judiciously based on predetermined P-value thresholds and F-statistics.

Results

Results from MR evaluations did not identify a clear causative link between BMI and colorectal malignancy. Conversely, both measures of obesity, the Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) and its adjusted form for BMI (WHRadjBMI), displayed a connection to increased risk of colorectal cancer, especially prominent among female subjects. Reverse MR analyses dismissed potential reverse causality between colorectal malignancies and obesity. A significant genetic interplay was observed between WHR, WHRadjBMI, and colorectal cancer instances. Ensuing MR probes spotlighted inflammatory bowel ailment as a protective factor, while salad intake was indicated as a potential risk concerning colorectal malignancies. Sensitivity reviews, which included tests for both pleiotropy and heterogeneity, validated the robustness of the MR findings.

Conclusion

Findings from this research indicate that specific obesity-related parameters, notably WHR and WHRadjBMI, carry a causal relationship with an elevated colorectal cancer risk. The impact is distinctly more evident among females. Such insights might be pivotal for public health deliberations, hinting that individuals boasting a high WHR might necessitate intensified colorectal cancer screenings.
The Thr92Ala polymorphism in the type 2 deiodinase gene is linked to depression in patients with COVID-19 after hospital discharge
Authors: Beltrão Daniele Carvalhal de Almeida , Beltrão Fabyan Esberard de Lima , Carvalhal Giulia , Beltrão Fabyanna Lethicia de Lima , Brito Amanda da Silva , Silva Hatilla dos Santos , Teixeira Helena Mariana Pitangueira , Rodrigues Juliana Lopes , de Figueiredo Camila Alexandrina Viana , Costa Ryan dos Santos , Pordeus Liana Clebia De Morais , Vieira Giciane Carvalho , Ramos Helton Estrela
Published: June 2024

Background

The Thr92Ala-DIO2 polymorphism has been associated with clinical outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and neuropsychiatric diseases. This study examines the impact of the Thr92Ala-DIO2 polymorphism on neuropsychological symptoms, particularly depressive symptoms, in patients who have had moderate to severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and were later discharged.

Methods

Our prospective cohort study, conducted from June to August 2020, collected data from 273 patients hospitalized with COVID-19. This included thyroid function tests, inflammatory markers, hematologic indices, and genotyping of the Thr92Ala-DIO2 polymorphism. Post-discharge, we followed up with 68 patients over 30 to 45 days, dividing them into depressive (29 patients) and non-depressive (39 patients) groups based on their Beck Depression Inventory scores.

Results

We categorized 68 patients into three groups based on their genotypes: Thr/Thr (22 patients), Thr/Ala (41 patients), and Ala/Ala (5 patients). Depressive symptoms were less frequent in the Thr/Ala group (29.3%) compared to the Thr/Thr (59.1%) and Ala/Ala (60%) groups (p = 0.048). The Thr/Ala heterozygous genotype correlated with a lower risk of post-COVID-19 depression, as shown by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. These analyses, adjusted for various factors, indicated a 70% to 81% reduction in risk.

Conclusion

Our findings appear to be the first to show that heterozygosity for Thr92Ala-DIO2 in patients with COVID-19 may protect against post-COVID-19 depression symptoms up to 2 months after the illness.
A mendelian randomization study revealing that metabolic syndrome is causally related to renal failure
Authors: Cai Xianfu , Wang Decai , Wang Jianjun , Ding Chenguang , Li Yang , Zheng Jin , Xue Wujun
Published: June 2024

Background

The onset and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been linked to metabolic syndrome (MetS), with the results of recent observational studies supporting a potential link between renal failure and MetS. The causal nature of this relationship, however, remains uncertain. This study thus leveraged a Mendelian Randomization (MR) approach to probe the causal link of MetS with renal failure.

Methods

A genetic database was initially used to identify SNPs associated with MetS and components thereof, after which causality was evaluated through the inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger regression, and weighted media techniques. Results were subsequently validated through sensitivity analyses.

Results

IVW (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.21–1.82, P =1.60E−04) and weighted median (OR = 1.58, 95% CI =1.15–2.17, P = 4.64E-03) analyses revealed that MetS was linked to an elevated risk of renal failure. When evaluating the specific components of MetS, waist circumference was found to be causally related to renal failure using the IVW (OR= 1.58, 95% CI = 1.39–1.81, P = 1.74e-11), MR-Egger (OR= 1.54, 95% CI = 1.03–2.29, P = 0.036), and weighted median (OR= 1.82, 95% CI = 1.48–2.24, P = 1.17e-8). The IVW method also revealed a causal association of hypertension with renal failure (OR= 1.95, 95% CI = 1.34–2.86, P = 5.42e-04), while renal failure was not causally related to fasting blood glucose, triglyceride levels, or HDL-C levels.

Conclusion

These data offer further support for the existence of a causal association of MetS with kidney failure. It is thus vital that MetS be effectively managed in patients with CKD in clinical settings, particularly for patients with hypertension or a high waist circumference who are obese. Adequate interventions in these patient populations have the potential to prevent or delay the development of renal failure.
Association of oxidative balance score with chronic kidney disease: NHANES 1999-2018
Authors: Wen Haibin , Li Xianhua , Chen Jiangming , Li Yi , Yang Nailong , Tan Ning
Published: June 2024

Background

The Oxidative Balance Score (OBS), which quantifies the balance between antioxidants and pro-oxidants influenced by diet and lifestyle, is crucial given oxidative stress’s significant role in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). This study aims to determine the association between OBS and CKD using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2018.

Methods

We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 1999 to 2018. OBS was constructed from a detailed array of 20 factors, including dietary nutrients and lifestyle behaviors. The relationship between OBS and CKD risk was evaluated using weighted logistic regression models, adjusted for potential confounders, with a generalized additive model (GAM) examining non-linear associations. Subgroup analyses and interaction effects across diverse demographic and clinical groups, along with sensitivity analyses, were performed to validate the findings.

Results

Among 32,120 participants analyzed, 4,786 were identified with CKD. Fully adjusted weighted logistic regression analysis revealed that each unit increase in OBS was associated with a 2% reduction in CKD prevalence [OR: 0.98 (0.98–0.99), P < 0.001]. Higher OBS quartiles were significantly correlated with a decreased CKD risk [Q4 vs. Q1: OR: 0.82 (0.68–0.98), P = 0.03; P for trend = 0.01]. The GAM and smoothed curve fit indicated a linear relationship between OBS and the risk of CKD. Stratified and sensitivity analyses further substantiated the inverse relationship between OBS and CKD prevalence.

Conclusions

Our findings from the NHANES data affirm a significant inverse association between OBS and CKD risk in the U.S. population, underscoring the role of optimizing dietary and lifestyle factors in managing CKD risk. These results advocate for incorporating OBS considerations into CKD prevention and treatment strategies.