bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promosi Kesehatan tentang Kesehatan Reproduksi Remaja dengan Media Audio Visual Terhadap Pengetahuan dan Sikap di SMAN 4 Tugu Kota Malang
Authors: Abdullah Ikhwan , Ilmiah Widia Shofa
Published: September 2023

Remaja memiliki karakteristik masa mencari identitas diri dan masa membingungkan seiring dengan pertumbuhan perkembangan biologis, mental dan kognitifnya. Hampir 24% penduduk Indonesia tahun 2022 adalah remaja. Data remaja berpacaran pada laki-laki (34.5%) dan (33.3%) pada Perempuan serta 4.5% remaja laki-laki melakukan free sex dan 0.7% pada Perempuan. Insiden aborsi sebesar 20% dari 2.3 juta kasus pada remaja. Permasalahan mitra yaitu kurangnya pengetahuan remaja tentang kesehatan reproduksi. Metode kegiatan yaitu pengukuran pengetahuan dan sikap remaja sebelum dan sesudah promosi kesehatan menggunakan media audio visual berupa Power Point, video dan metode ceramah tanya jawab. Hasil pelaksanaan kegiatan menunjukkan bahwa tingkat pengetahuan meningkat, sikap remaja semakin positif meskipun dipengaruhi faktor sumber informasi sebelumnya dan pengalaman sebelumnya tentang kesehatan reproduksi. Pendidikan kesehatan ini perlu terintegrasi ke dalam kurikulum sekolah berstandar nasional dan pengaktifan kembali peer group atau kader Unit Kesehatan Sekolah.
Development and Training: The Deployment of Web-based Vaccination Queue system at Military Resort Command 052/Wijayakrama
Authors: Wiratama Jansen , Tobing Fenina Adilne Twince , Desanti Ririn Ikana , Suryasari  , Wella
Published: September 2023

Implementing the COVID-19 vaccination queue system by the 052/Wijayakrama Military Resort Command in Tangerang is a form of community service carried out by Multimedia Nusantara University (UMN). This system was created to simplify the vaccination process and reduce the waiting time for vaccination participants. This website-based queuing system is designed with the Laravel framework using the rapid application development model and functionality testing using black box testing. The results of functionality testing of this queuing system indicate that the system can function properly and meet the needs to simplify the vaccination process. More than 1,000 people have used this queuing system, making it easy for the public to get the COVID-19 vaccination. Applying the COVID-19 vaccination queue system by the 052/Wijayakrama Military Resort Command in Tangerang is an example of a technology application to support government programs tackling the COVID-19 pandemic. This system has made it easy for people to get vaccinated and has helped the government to organize and manage the vaccination process better.
MOTIVES OF CYPTOCURRENCY TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors:   Universitas Airlangga Indonesia, Limantoro Amedea Cristabel , Rahmiati Alfa ,   Universitas Airlangga Indonesia
Published: September 2023

Research Purposes. This study aim to find out the motives of cryptocurrency investors to carry out tax non-compliance behavior, people who influence, and obstacles that may reduce the desire to carry out tax violations. Research Methods. The research was conducted with an exploratory approach. Research Results and Findings. The results of the research are the motives owned by cryptocurrency investors in carrying out tax non-compliance behavior are saving personal finances, dissatisfaction with the taxation system, distrust of tax handlers, burdensome tax rates, and newest policies which contrary to the principle of decentralization. People who influence cryptocurrency investors in committing tax non-compliance are friends, cryptocurrency communities, family, and colleagues. Things that can hinder cryptocurrency investors from carrying out tax non-compliance are the lack of loopholes, tax avoidance schemes which difficult to implement, the potential of inspected by the tax authorities, the potential of sanctions, and the potential of reported by third parties (the exchangers).
Explaining Projections of High-Dimensional Data
Authors:   , Tian Zonglin
Published: September 2023

Visualization techniques and methods are often a key aid for scientists who aim to form, refine, or invalidate hypotheses about underlying phenomena based on multidimensional datasets. Among such techniques, dimensionality reduction techniques, also called projections, offer significant advantages with respect to other visualization techniques in terms of their computational and visual scalability in both the number of samples and dimensions, and have hence become one of the most used visualizations of multidimensional data. However, projections create images which are hard, if not impossible, to interpret in detail without additional visual help.

In this thesis, we study how to enrich existing projection techniques by so called interactive visual explanatory mechanisms.

Our first contribution is an extension of an existing family of local explanation techniques to characterize the data in terms of local dimension correlation and intrinsic dimensionality. We show that our extensions, which are simple to implement, efficient to compute, and applicable to any projection method, can significantly contribute -- when combined with existing explanations -- to a better understanding of the visualized dataset.

Our second contribution studies the usage of projections that create 3D scatterplots as opposed to the traditional 2D ones that most existing projection methods employ. We show that 3D projections offer only minimal improvements with respect to existing quality metrics used to measure projections. However, when annotated with our explanations, and since interactively viewable from multiple viewpoints, 3D projections create a stronger involvement of the user in exploring the depicted data. To further study how the insights obtained from a projection depend on the chosen viewpoints, we propose quality metrics to characterize the structures visible from any given viewpoint. We also propose an interactive tool to guide users in finding good-quality viewpoints. We conduct a user study that shows that our quality metrics agree with viewpoints perceived as useful by users both when guided by, and when not having, our interactive tool.

Our final contribution explains multidimensional projections from the perspective of their computational stability. For this, we propose to use a variant of sensitivity analysis -- a well-known technique in signal processing but, to our knowledge, not having been used yet in assessing projections. We show that a recent deep-learning technique (NNP), which excels in computational speed, simplicity of use, genericity, quality, and out-of-sample ability, also meets the stability requirement as it exhibits only small output changes for significantly large changes of its input data for a range of perturbations.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN ONLINE AND TRAIN BUS TICKET RESERVATION SYSTEM FOR A TRANSPORTATION SERVICE INMUMBAI (QUICK-BT)
Authors: M Khan Mohammad Faraz , Rajbhar Vikas , Mahmia Vaibhav ,   Amity University
Published: September 2023

The use of bus traveling is a large growing business in India and other countries; the manual use of bus reservation is presently very strenuous and also consumes a lot of time by having to stay on a long queue. For this reason, an efficient system is to be proposed in this paper to ease the issue of bus reservation amongst indigenes within the country. The system is a web – based application that allows visitors to check bus availability, buy and pay bus ticket online. In order to achieve the design, Bombay Electric Supply & Transport (BEST) was chosen as a case study because of its strategic importance. Structured Systems Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM) will be adopted. In this paper, the proposed bus reservation system was developed using Extensible Hypertext Markup Language (XHTML), PHP Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP), Structure Query Language (SQL), Ajax, Cascading Style Sheet (CSS), and JavaScript. This document gives formatting instructions for authors
IMPACT OF SENSITIVE ADVERTISEMENTS ON TODAY’S YOUTH: A STUDY CONDUCTED ON UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF TEZPUR, ASSAM
Authors: Onkarrao Manjare Dr. Sagar , Medhi Manashi ,   Mahatma Gandhi University,
Published: September 2023

The extensive use of Social Networking in India has been on the rise among the new generation youths. In today's world, life cannot be imagined without Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp, LinkedIn or Twitter accounts and online handles. The new age social networking culture has been well accepted and has met an enthusiastic response and acceptance. There are reports of cultural changes and in the way traditional interactions and social communications are conducted in India. Research studies on this new age social media impact and usage within India have been limited to specific surveys and theories. The objectives of this study is to make an attempt to investigate the impact of sensitive advertisements on the Indian youth. The reason for selecting youth as the target audience is because the direction of a country and culture is decided by the direction taken by youths of that country. This paper is an attempt to analyse the pattern of social networking usage and impact in order to determine the social networking addiction. The scope of the research is confined to Assam and few colleges of Assam have been considered for sample collection.
TRANSFORMING RIDE-HAILING SERVICES: EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL OF UBER WEB 3.0 BLOCKCHAIN APP
Authors: Dey Devashish , Shekhar Indra , Gorai Saikat , Kiran Jyoti , Roy Kunal ,   Durgapur Institute of Advanced Technology and Management
Published: September 2023

This paper explores the transformative potential of integrating Web 3.0 and blockchain technologies into the ride-hailing industry, specifically focusing on Uber Web 3.0 Blockchain App. As the ridehailing industry continues to evolve, there is a growing need for enhanced security, transparency, and efficiency. The emergence of Web 3.0 and blockchain offers a unique opportunity to address these challenges and revolutionize traditional ride-hailing services. By leveraging decentralized networks, smart contracts, and tokenization, Uber Web 3.0 Blockchain App has the potential to redefine the user experience for riders and drivers while also reshaping the overall ecosystem. Through an in-depth analysis of the benefits, challenges, and implications of implementing such a solution, this paper sheds light on the potential impact of Web 3.0 and blockchain integration in the ride-hailing industry. The findings of this research will provide valuable insights for stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers interested in understanding the future of ride-hailing services and the transformative power of blockchain technology.
Hepatit B Virüsü Enfekte Bireylerin COVID-19 Pandemisinde Hastalık Takiplerinin ve COVID-19 Aşılanma Durumlarının Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: DİNDAR DEMİRAY Emine Kübra , ALKAN Sevil , TÜRKOĞLU YILMAZ Emine , ÖNTÜRK AKYÜZ Hatice , KONUŞ Süleyman , ÖNDER Taylan
Published: September 2023

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, pandemi sırasında hepatit B virüsü (HBV) ile enfekte hastaların takip, tedavisi, COVID-19 enfeksiyonu geçirme durumları ve bu hastaların COVID-19 aşısı olup olmadığı araştırıldı. Gereç ve Yöntemler: Bu çalışmaya üç katılımcı merkezin Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları ve Klinik Mikrobiyoloji polikliniklerine başvuran HBV ile enfekte hastalar dahil edildi. Araştırmada araştırmacılar tarafından oluşturulan, “Katılımcı Bilgi Formu” ve “COVID-19 pandemisinde HBV takip ve tedavi durumu ile COVID-19 aşılanma durumlarını değerlendiren form” kullanıldı. Bulgular: Çalışmaya 445’i (%69,2) kadın, yaş ortalaması 46,4±10,8 yıl olan 643 hasta dahil edildi. Hastaların pandemi döneminde kontrole gitme sıklığı ortalaması 8,88±4,71 ay idi. 378’i (%58,8) pandemi döneminde laboratuvar kontrollerini, 131’i (%20,4) görüntüleme kontrollerini yaptırabilmişti. Hastaların 316’sı (%49,1) pandemi döneminde takipli olduğu doktora/hastaneye ulaşabildiğini belirtmişti. Katılımcıların 77’si (%11,97) COVID-19 enfeksiyonu geçirmiş ve 23’ü (%3,57) hastanede yatarak tedavi görmüştü. 543’ü (%84,44) COVID-19 aşısı olmuştu. Pandemi döneminde HBV hastalarının hastaneye kontrole gitme sıklığının sosyodemografik özelliklere göre karşılaştırılması için yapılan analizlere göre cinsiyet, meslek ve ikamet yerine göre gruplar arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı farklılık tespit edilmedi. Eğitim durumuna (üniversite ve/veya üzeri olanlar) ve aylık gelire göre (3500 üzeri olanlar) gruplar arasında istatistiksel anlamlı farklılık saptandı. Sonuç: Pandemi döneminde HBV enfekte kişilerin hastaneye başvuruları azalmış, bunun sonucunda hastalara ait rutin laboratuvar ve radyolojik tetkiklerinin aksadığı saptanmıştır.
Pengelolaan Kampanye Public Relations “Diet” Kendaraan Pribadi Oleh Dinas Perhubungan Jawa Barat
Authors: Nabila Dinda , Nugraha Aat Ruchiat
Published: September 2023

Penggunaan kendaraan pribadi yang berlebih dapat menyebabkan dampak negatif, diantaranya kemacetan dan meningkatnya polusi udara. Sebagai bagian lembaga pelayan publik, Dinas Perhubungan provinsi Jawa Barat bertanggungjawab memberikan informasi/sosialisasi kondisi volume kendaraan di wilayahnya. Untuk dapat menjadikan informasi yang positif, lembaga memerlukan praktik kehumasan dalam bentuk kampanye dalam rangka membangun tata kelola pemerintahan dibidang komunikasi publik yang baik. Kampanye menjadi komponen penting dalam aktifitas kehumasan yang menuntut dapat merepresentasikan informasi berbagai aktivitas lembaga dengan baik dan benar kepada publik sasarannya yang dapat memanfaatkan kemajuan teknologi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif deskriptif, dengan pengumpulan data dengan menggunakan metode wawancara, observasi lansung, dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kampanye “Diet Kendaraan” menggunakan tahapan model Lasswell dalam hal komunikator, isi pesan dan media yang digunakan. Untuk komunikator kampanye ini mengutamakan key opinion leader (KOL) dari para pejabat pemerintah daerah, isi pesan yang formal, kreatif, dan mengutamakan sisi emosional, sedangkan media kampanye berupa saluran tatap muka langsung dan media sosial. Simpulan penelitian ini adalah jenis kampanye “Diet Kendaraan” lebih berorientasi pada fungsi sosialisasi kebijakan yang dilakukan oleh pemerintah daerah melalui Dinas Perhubungan provinsi Jawa Barat. Dalam menjalani fungsinya sebagai pemberi informasi dan komunikasi yang persuasif, Humas Pemerintah dalam hal ini memaksimalkan program kampanye “Diet Kendaraan” melalui berbagai key opinion leader (KOL), isi pesan yang kreatif, dan media publikasi baik media cetak, media elektronik maupun media sosial.Kata Kunci: Diet Kendaraan; Humas; Kampanye; Lasswell; Tata Kelola Pemerintahan
PENGARUH KECERDASAN EMOSIONAL, KECERDASAN SPIRITUAL DAN KECERDASAN INTELEKTUAL TERHADAP PEMAHAMAN AKUNTANSI PADA MAHASISWA PRODI AKUNTANSI DI KOTA BATAM
Authors: Paulina Paulina , Janrosl Viola Syukrina E
Published: September 2023

The aim of this research was to determine the effect of emotional intelligence, spiritual intelligence and intellectual intelligence on accounting comprehension. The method used in the findings contained in this study is a quantitative-based research by conducting multiple linear analysis. The population in this study were accounting study program students at Universal University, Batam University, Batam International University, Batam State Polytechnic and Riau Islands University. The method used for sampling is simple random sampling. The results of research based on a study will certainly be able to prove that emotional intelligence, spiritual intelligence and intellectual intelligence have a significant effect on understanding of accounting in accounting study program students in Batam City.
ANALISIS KOMUNIKASI DIGITAL PADA AKSI KEKERASAN VERBAL KOMUNITAS MOBILE LEGENDS SQUADS PROJECT TRV DIKOTA BATAM
Authors: Mangara James Nathan , Cindoswari Ageng Rara
Published: September 2023

Sejak awal peradaban manusia, komunikasi telah menjadi hal yang sangat penting dalam pertukaran informasi antara individu, kelompok, dan bangsa. Komunikasi digital, seperti pesan teks, panggilan suara, email, media sosial, dan aplikasi pesan instan dalam game seperti Mobile Legends, memfasilitasi interaksi simbolik secara real-time di seluruh dunia. Meskipun memberikan manfaat, penggunaan media baru ini juga telah menyebabkan penurunan nilai dan norma-norma sosial dalam masyarakat, termasuk munculnya kekerasan verbal dalam komunikasi digital, yang melibatkan penggunaan bahasa merendahkan, menghina, atau mengancam yang ditujukan kepada individu atau kelompok. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengungkap isu kekerasan verbal dalam komunikasi digital. Studi ini melibatkan komunitas Mobile Legends Squads Project TRV di kota tersebut. Peneliti menggunakan teknik pengumpulan data seperti wawancara dan observasi, dan temuan-temuan mengungkapkan bahwa komunikasi digital dalam grup permainan seperti "Mobile Legends" mempengaruhi dinamika kelompok dan kesejahteraan anggotanya. Kekerasan verbal dalam permainan ini memiliki dampak negatif, dan moderator dari grup permainan "Mobile Legends" memainkan peran penting dalam menjunjung etika komunikasi dan menangani konflik.
ANALISIS PELECEHAN SEKSUAL PADA FILM PENYALIN CAHAYA
Authors: Yuliana Nia , Rorong Michael Jibrael
Published: September 2023

Photocopier is a thriller drama film that tells about sexual harassment in the student environment, specifically the student environment. This film raises the point of view and events of a student named Suryani who has experienced a sexual crime incident which caused her to lose her scholarship from her place of study. This film also shows how to solve the problem of sexual harassment in the educational environment. This study aims to find out and describe what are the signs that describe the delivery of messages of sexual harassment in films through Pierce's 3 trichotomic categories, namely sign, object, and interpretant. The method used is Charles Sanders Pierce's semiotic theory with specialization based on icons, indexes and symbols. The research method used is a qualitative research method that produces data in verbal form, not numbers. The results of this study are that there are forms and symbols of sexual harassment that occur in the student environment, based on Charles Sanders Pierce's semiotic analysis. scenes of accumulating evidence of harassment as well as feminist ideology that is visibly raised in relation to sexual harassment.
ANALISIS FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI MINAT MAHASISWA AKUNTANSI DALAM PEMILIHAN KARIR SEBAGAI AKUNTAN PUBLIK
Authors: Andika Bagus , L. Tobing Vargo Christian
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

This study aims to to determine the factors that influence the interest of accounting students in choosing a career as a public accountant. The data analysis method used in this study consisted of descriptive statistical tests, data quality tests, consisting of validity and reliability tests, classical assumption tests, multiple linear regression tests, coefficient of determination tests, and hypothesis testing consisting of t tests and f tests. The results of testing the hypothesis in this study indicate that partially financial rewards, job market considerations, and professional training have a positive and significant effect on the interest of accounting students in choosing to become public accountants, and simultaneously financial rewards, job market considerations, and professional training have a positive effect and significant to the interest of accounting students in choosing a career as a public accountant. The test results for the coefficient of determination in this study were 0.551, so the independent variables in this study had an influence on the dependent variable of 55.1%, the remaining 44.9% were influenced by other variables outside this study.

Keywords: financial rewards, job market consideration, professional training, students interest
PENGARUH MODERNISASI SISTEM ADMINISTRASI, KEWAJIBAN MORAL, DAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN TERHADAP KEPATUHAN WAJIB PAJAK KENDARAAN BERMOTOR DI KOTA BATAM
Authors: Elma Theresa , Husda Anggun Permata
Published: September 2023

Tax is a source of state revenue that plays a big role in economic development. By looking at the high level of taxpayer compliance it will increase tax revenue. This observation aims to analyze the effect of modernization of the administrative system, moral obligation and quality of service on motor vehicle taxpayer compliance in Batam City. This study used a descriptive and quantitative statistical approach with a sample of 100 respondents who were determined using random sampling and using a questionnaire as a data collection instrument. From the analysis of the data, it was found that the implementation of modernization of the administrative system did not affect taxpayer compliance with t count (0.669) < t table (1.985), moral obligations affected taxpayer compliance with t count (3.150) > t table (1.985) and quality services affect taxpayer compliance with t count (5.237) > t table (1.985). Simultaneously the results of the F test of administrative system modernization, moral obligation and service quality affect taxpayer compliance with F count (14.131) > F table 3.098).
ANALISIS YURIDIS PERAN NOTARIS DALAM MENJAGA KERAHASIAAN DATA KONSUMEN TERHADAP PEMBUATAN AKTA AUTENTIK MENURUT KETENTUAN HUKUM PERDATA INDONESIA
Authors: Raditya Raditya Ferialdi , Svinarky Irene
Published: September 2023

Notaris adalah pejabat yang diberi wewenang untuk membuat akta autentik. Akta autentik diperlukan oleh masyarakat sebagai bukti dalam melakukan perbuatan hukum. Dalam Undang-undang Jabatan Notaris disebutkan bahwa notaris selaku pembuat akta harus merahasiakan isi akta dan segala keterangan yang diperoleh guna pembuatan akta. Dalam internet banyak terdapat salinan akta yang dapat dilihat oleh pengguna internet jika ditelusuri dengan kata kunci akta notaris. Peneliti ingin mengetahui bagaimana peran notaris dalam menjaga kerahasiaan akta autentik dan bagaimana pengaturannya dalam Undang-undang Jabatan Notaris. Peneliti menggunakan metode penelitian hukum normatif. Hasil penelitian ini menerangkan 2 hal yaitu: Pertama, dibutuhkannya kerjasama seluruh pihak yang terlibat dalam pembuatan akta dalam menjaga kerahasiaan akta dan pengaturan mengenai kerahasiaan akta autentik yang harus dijaga tertuang dalam Pasal 4 ayat (2) Undang-undang Jabatan Notaris; Kedua, selain itu terdapat juga peraturan kerahasiaan yang harus dijaga oleh jabatan tertentu pada Pasal 1909 ayat (3) Kitab Undang-undang Hukum Perdata, Pasal 170 ayat (1) Kitab Undang-undang Acara Pidana, dan Pasal 322 ayat (1) Kitab Undang-undang Hukum Pidana.
PENGARUH MOTIVASI DAN LINGKUNGAN KERJA TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PADA PT BAHTERA TUAIAN GLOBAL BATAM
Authors: Laia Reformasi , Khoiri M.
Published: September 2023

In this study, researchers formulated the problem of whether motivation influences employee performance, and the work environment also influences employee performance at the Bahtera Tuaian Global Batam company. Researchers collected data by distributing questionnaires with a total of 121 respondents. So that researchers have conclusions or results where work motivation on a partial scale has an influence and the work environment also influences employee performance. Meanwhile, the scale of innovation, motivation and work environment both have an effect on the performance of employees in the Bahtera Tuaian Global Batam company
NeighborNet: improved algorithms and implementation
Authors: Bryant David , Huson Daniel H.
Published: September 2023

NeighborNet constructs phylogenetic networks to visualize distance data. It is a popular method used in a wide range of applications. While several studies have investigated its mathematical features, here we focus on computational aspects. The algorithm operates in three steps. We present a new simplified formulation of the first step, which aims at computing a circular ordering. We provide the first technical description of the second step, the estimation of split weights. We review the third step by constructing and drawing the network. Finally, we discuss how the networks might best be interpreted, review related approaches, and present some open questions.
Porous polydimethylsiloxane films with specific surface wettability but distinct regular physical structures fabricated by 3D printing
Authors: He Zhoukun , Wang Na , Mu Linpeng , Wang Zhuo , Su Jie , Chen Yikun , Luo Mingdong , Wu Ya , Lan Xiaorong , Mao Jiayan
Published: September 2023

Porous polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) films with special surface wettability have potential applications in the biomedical, environmental, and structural mechanical fields. However, preparing porous PDMS films with a regular surface pattern using conventional methods, such as chemical foaming or physical pore formation, is challenging. In this study, porous PDMS films with a regular surface pattern are designed and prepared using 3D printing to ensure the formation of controllable and regular physical structures. First, the effect of the surface wettability of glass substrates with different surface energies (commercial hydrophilic glass and hydrophobic glass (F-glass) obtained by treating regular glass with 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyl-trichlorosilane) on the structural characteristics of the 3D printed PDMS filaments is investigated systematically. Additionally, the effect of the printing speed and the surface wettability of the glass substrate on the PDMS filament morphology is investigated synchronously. Next, using the F-glass substrate and an optimized printing speed, the effects of the number of printed layers on both the morphologies of the individual PDMS filaments and porous PDMS films, and the surface wettability of the films are studied. This study reveals that regularly patterned porous PDMS films with distinct structural designs but the same controllable surface wettability, such as anisotropic surface wettability and superhydrophobicity, can be easily fabricated through 3D printing. This study provides a new method for fabricating porous PDMS films with a specific surface wettability, which can potentially expand the application of porous PDMS films.
Exploring atherosclerosis imaging with contrast-enhanced MRI using PEGylated ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Ruru , Lu Kuan , Xiao Li , Hu Xuelan , Cai Wu , Liu Linjiang , Liu Yan , Li Weihua , Zhou Hui , Qian Zhiyuan , Wang Sixia , Chen Can , Zeng Jianfeng , Gao Mingyuan
Published: September 2023

Plaque rupture is a critical concern due to its potential for severe outcomes such as cerebral infarction and myocardial infarction, underscoring the urgency of noninvasive early diagnosis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has gained prominence in plaque imaging, leveraging its noninvasiveness, high spatial resolution, and lack of ionizing radiation. Ultrasmall iron oxides, when modified with polyethylene glycol, exhibit prolonged blood circulation and passive targeting toward plaque sites, rendering them conducive for MRI. In this study, we synthesized ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticles of approximately 3 nm via high-temperature thermal decomposition. Subsequent surface modification facilitated the creation of a dual-modality magnetic resonance/fluorescence probe. Upon intravenous administration of the probes, MRI assessment of atherosclerotic plaques and diagnostic evaluation were conducted. The application of Flash-3D sequence imaging revealed vascular constriction at lesion sites, accompanied by a gradual signal amplification postprobe injection. T1-weighted imaging of the carotid artery unveiled a progressive signal ratio increase between plaques and controls within 72 h post-administration. Fluorescence imaging of isolated carotid arteries exhibited incremental lesion-to-control signal ratios. Additionally, T1 imaging of the aorta demonstrated an evolving signal enhancement over 48 h. Therefore, the ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticles hold immense promise for early and noninvasive diagnosis of plaques, providing an avenue for dynamic evaluation over an extended time frame.
Interferon-β decreases LPS-induced neutrophil recruitment to cardiac fibroblasts
Authors: Anfossi Renatto , Vivar Raúl , Ayala Pedro , González-Herrera Fabiola , Espinoza-Pérez Claudio , Osorio José Miguel , Román-Torres Mauricio , Bolívar Samir , Díaz-Araya Guillermo
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Cardiac fibroblasts (CF) are crucial cells in damaged heart tissues, expressing TLR4, IFN-receptor and responding to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-β (IFN-β) respectively. While CF interact with immune cells; however, their relationship with neutrophils remains understudied. Additionally, theimpact of LPS and IFN-β on CF-neutrophil interaction is poorly understood.

Methods: Isolated CF from adult rats were treated with LPS, with or without IFN-β. This study examined IL-8 secretion, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression, and neutrophil recruitment, as well as their effects on MMPs activity.

Results: LPS triggered increased IL-8 expression and secretion, along with elevated ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression, all of which were blocked by TAK-242. Pre-treatment with IFN-β countered these LPS effects. LPS treated CF showed higher neutrophil recruitment (migration and adhesion) compared to unstimulated CF, an effect prevented by IFN-β. Ruxolitinib blocked these IFN-β anti-inflammatory effects, implicating JAK signaling. Analysis of culture medium zymograms from CF alone, and CF-neutrophils interaction, revealed that MMP2 was mainly originated from CF, while MMP9 could come from neutrophils. LPS and IFN-β boosted MMP2 secretion by CF. MMP9 activity in CF was low, and LPS or IFN-β had no significant impact. Pre-treating CF with LPS, IFN-β, or both before co-culture with neutrophils increased MMP2. Neutrophil co-culture increased MMP9 activity, with IFN-β pre-treatment reducing MMP9 compared to unstimulated CF.

Conclusion: In CF, LPS induces the secretion of IL-8 favoring neutrophils recruitment and these effects were blocked by IFN-. The results highlight that CF-neutrophil interaction appears to influence the extracellular matrix through MMPs activity modulation.
Annulation of O-silyl N,O-ketene acetals with alkynes for the synthesis of dihydropyridinones and its application in concise total synthesis of phenanthroindolizidine alkaloids
Authors: Lee Seokwoo , Shin Jae Eui , Yoon Ran , Yoo Hanbin , Kim Sanghee
Published: September 2023

The formation of N-heterocycles with multiple substituents is important in organic synthesis. Herein, we report a novel method for the construction of functionalized dihydropyridinone rings through the annulation of an amide α-carbon with a tethered alkyne moiety. The reaction of the amide with the alkyne was achieved via O-silyl N,O-ketene acetal formation and silver-mediated addition. Furthermore, the developed method was applied for the total synthesis of phenanthroindolizidine and phenanthroquinolizidine alkaloids. By varying the coupling partners, a concise and collective total synthesis of these alkaloids was achieved.
Characterization of gut microbiota profile in Iranian patients with bipolar disorder compared to healthy controls
Authors: Rashnaei Nassir , Akhavan Sepahi Abbas , Siadat Seyed Davar , Shahsavand-Ananloo Esmaeil , Bahramali Golnaz
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The human gut microbiota plays a crucial role in mental health through the gut-brain axis, impacting central nervous system functions, behavior, mood, and anxiety. Consequently, it is implicated in the development of neuropsychiatric disorders. This study aimed to assess and compare the gut microbiota profiles and populations of individuals with bipolar disorder and healthy individuals in Iran.

Methods

Fecal samples were collected from 60 participants, including 30 bipolar patients (BPs) and 30 healthy controls (HCs), following rigorous entry criteria. Real-time quantitative PCR was utilized to evaluate the abundance of 10 bacterial genera/species and five bacterial phyla.

Results

Notably, Actinobacteria and Lactobacillus exhibited the greatest fold change in BPs compared to HCs at the phylum and genus level, respectively, among the bacteria with significant population differences. Ruminococcus emerged as the most abundant genus in both groups, while Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes showed the highest abundance in BPs and HCs, respectively, at the phylum level. Importantly, our investigation revealed a lower Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, potentially serving as a health indicator, in HCs compared to BPs.

Conclusion

This study marks the first examination of an Iranian population and provides compelling evidence of significant differences in gut microbiota composition between BPs and HCs, suggesting a potential link between brain functions and the gut microbial profile and population.
Association between gut microbiota and benign prostatic hyperplasia: a two-sample mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xia Di , Wang Jiahui , Zhao Xia , Shen Tao , Ling Li , Liang Yuanjiao
Published: September 2023

Background

Recent researches have shown a correlation between the gut microbiota (GM) and various diseases. However, it remains uncertain whether the relationship between GM and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is causal.

Methods

We carried out a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, utilizing data from the most extensive GM-focused genome-wide association study by the MiBioGen consortium, with a sample size of 13,266. Data for BPH, encompassing 26,358 cases and 110,070 controls, were obtained from the R8 release of the FinnGen consortium. We employed multiple techniques, such as inverse variance weighted (IVW), constrained maximum likelihood and model averaging methods, maximum likelihood, MR-Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MRPRESSO),MR-Egger, and weighted median methods, to investigate the causal relationship between GM and BPH. To evaluate the heterogeneity among the instrumental variables, Cochran’s Q statistics were employed. Additionally, the presence of horizontal pleiotropy was assessed through the application of both MR-Egger and MR-PRESSO tests. The direction of causality was scrutinized for robustness using the MR-Steiger directionality test. A reverse MR analysis examined the GM previously linked to BPH through a causal relationship in the forward MR assessment.

Results

According to the analysis conducted using IVW,Eisenbergiella (odds ratio [OR]=0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–0.99,P=0.022) and Ruminococcaceae (UCG009) (OR=0.88, 95% CI: 0.79–0.99, P=0.027) were found to reduce the risk of BPH, while Escherichia shigella (OR=1.19, 95% CI: 1.05–1.36, P=0.0082) appeared to increase it. The subsequent reverse MR analysis revealed that the three GM were not significantly influenced by BPH, and there was no noticeable heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy among the instrumental variables.Conclusion: These results indicated a causal relationship between Eisenbergiella, Ruminococcaceae (UCG009), and Escherichia shigella and BPH. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to explore more comprehensively the roles and operational mechanisms of these GM in relation to BPH.
Evolution of knockdown resistance (kdr) mutations of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in Hainan Island and Leizhou Peninsula, China
Authors: Zhao Minghui , Ran Xin , Xing Dan , Liao Yun , Liu Wei , Bai Yu , Zhang Qiang , Chen Kan , Liu Lan , Wu Mingyu , Ma Zu , Gao Jian , Zhang Hengduan , Zhao Tongyan
Published: September 2023

Background

Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are important vectors of human arboviruses, transmitting arboviral diseases such as yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya and Zika. These two mosquitoes coexist on Hainan Island and the Leizhou Peninsula in China. Over the past 40 years, the distribution of Ae. albopictus has gradually expanded in these areas, while the distribution of Ae. aegypti has declined dramatically mainly due to the ecological changes and some other factors such as heavy use of insecticide indoor based on endophagic bloodfeeding of the species.

Methods

This study focused on the knockdown resistance (kdr) genes of both mosquitoes, investigated their mutations, and analyzed their haplotype and evolutionary diversity combined with population genetic features based on the ND4/ND5 genes to further elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of insecticide resistance in both mosquitoes.

Results

Three mutations, S989P, V1016G and F1534C, were found to be present in Ae. aegypti populations, and the three mutations occurred synergistically. Multiple mutation types (F1534C/S/L/W) of the F1534 locus are found in Ae. albopictus populations, with the three common mutations F1534C, F1534S and F1534L all having multiple independent origins. The F1534W (TTC/TGG) mutation is thought to have evolved from the F1534L (TTC/TTG) mutation. The F1534S (TTC/TCG) mutation has evolved from the F1534S (TTC/TCC) mutation. The most common form of mutation at the F1534 locus found in this study was S1534C, accounting for 20.97%, which may have evolved from the F1534C mutation. In addition, a new non-synonymous mutation M1524I and 28 synonymous mutations were identified in Ae. albopictus populations. Correlation analysis showed that the genetic diversity of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus populations did not correlate with their kdr haplotype diversity (P>0.05), but strong gene flow between populations may have contributed to the evolution of the kdr gene.

Conclusion

The study of kdr gene evolution in the two mosquito species may help to identify the evolutionary trend of insecticide resistance at an early stage and provide a theoretical basis for improving the efficiency of biological vector control and subsequent research into new insecticides.
Pilus of Streptococcus pneumoniae: structure, function and vaccine potential
Authors: Miao Chenglin , Cui Yali , Yan Ziyi , Jiang Yongmei
Published: September 2023

The pilus is an extracellular structural part that can be detected in some Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) isolates (type I pili are found in approximately 30% of strains, while type II pili are found in approximately 20%). It is anchored to the cell wall by LPXTG-like motifs on the peptidoglycan. Two kinds of pili have been discovered, namely, pilus-1 and pilus-2. The former is encoded by pilus islet 1 (PI-1) and is a polymer formed by the protein subunits RrgA, RrgB and RrgC. The latter is encoded by pilus islet 2 (PI-2) and is a polymer composed mainly of the structural protein PitB. Although pili are not necessary for the survival of S. pneumoniae, they serve as the structural basis and as virulence factors that mediate the adhesion of bacteria to host cells and play a direct role in promoting the adhesion, colonization and pathogenesis of S. pneumoniae. In addition, as candidate antigens for protein vaccines, pili have promising potential for use in vaccines with combined immunization strategies. Given the current understanding of the pili of S. pneumoniae regarding the genes, proteins, structure, biological function and epidemiological relationship with serotypes, combined with the immunoprotective efficacy of pilins as protein candidates for vaccines, we here systematically describe the research status and prospects of S. pneumoniae pili and provide new ideas for subsequent vaccine research and development.
Reimagining the cycle: interaction in self-tracking period apps and menstrual empowerment
Authors: Tylstedt Beatrice , Normark Maria , Eklund Lina
Published: September 2023

FemTech, technology often in the forms of apps developed to specifically target female health issues, have billions of users globally. Yet, despite the popularity of e.g., period trackers or pregnancy apps, we know little about the potential impact of these technologies, often developed outside controlled and regulated healthcare. How interactive technology is designed, and in our case the cycle represented through the design, has the potential to shape women's understanding of menstruation. In this study we analyse the interaction design of nine of the most downloaded menstruation apps, asking how commercial menstruation apps represent the cycle through their interaction design. While previous research has criticized these types of apps for lacking privacy and for enforcing normative ideals on women, they are often marketed in terms of female empowerment and users do indeed seem to find them very useful for period and fertility tracking. However, the term 'empowerment' is today used broadly and is known for having many potential meanings. Even within the field of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), 'empowerment' is used frequently but rarely explicitly defined. The question then becomes what empowerment could mean for menstruation tracking. In order to begin exploring the way menstruation and the period is represented in current apps and the way that future apps could design for empowerment, we engage in a comparative design investigation using what we callcritical app-walkthrough methodologywhere an app's design is explored comprehensibly at one point in time and apps interacted with over a longer time period through researcher use-diares. Our results center around three ways in which these apps represent the cycle to users through design. We analyse; (1) interface metaphors used to represent the temporality of bleeding, (2) datafication of menstruation through input and output for intimate data tracking, and (3) the ways fertility predictions convey certainty over uncertainty. In a second step, we then explore what empowerment could mean for period trackers and how design could support empowering experiences. Finally, we present four design sensitivities meant to inspire designers to design for other types of period tracking experiences that might better empower bleeders. These are:support lived temporalities, embrace uncertainty, empower the self, anddesign less.
Non-revascularized chronic total occlusions impact on substrate and post-ablation results in drug-refractory electrical storm
Authors: Cojocaru Cosmin , Nastasa Alexandrina , Bogdan Stefan , Iorgulescu Corneliu , Deaconu Alexandru , Onciul Sebastian , Vatasescu Radu
Published: September 2023

Background and aims

There is limited data concerning the effect of non-revascularized chronic total occlusions (NR-CTOs) after VT ablation. This study sought to evaluate the impact of NR-CTOs after ablation for electrical storm (ES).

Methods

Post-hoc retrospective analysis of data regarding 64 consecutive post-myocardial infarction patients (out of which 12 patients with NR-CTOs and 52 without NR-CTOs) undergoing substrate ablation for ES with an available median follow-up of 37.53 (7.25–64.65) months. Ablation result was assessed by inducibility of sustained monomorphic VT (SMVT) during final programmed ventricular stimulation (PVS). The primary endpoints were all-cause mortality and VT/VF recurrences after ablation, respectively, stratified by the presence of NR-CTOs. The secondary endpoint was to assess the predictive effect of NR-CTOs on all-cause mortality and VT/VF recurrences in relation to other relevant prognostic factors.

Results

At baseline, the presence of NR-CTOs was associated with higher bipolar BZ-to-total scar ratio (72.4% ± 17.9% vs. 52% ± 37.7%, p = 0.022) and more failure to eliminate the clinical VT (25% (3) vs. 0% (0), p < 0.001). During follow-up, overall all-cause mortality and recurrences were more frequent in the NR-CTO subgroup (75% (9) vs. 19.2% (10), log rank p = 0.003 and 58.3% vs. 23.1% (12), log rank p = 0.042 respectively). After adjusting for end-procedural residual SMVT inducibility, NR-CTOs predicted death during follow-up (HR 3.380, p = 0.009) however not recurrence (HR 1.986, p = 0.154).

Conclusions

NR-CTO patients treated by RFCA for drug-refractory ES demonstrated a higher ratio of BZ-to-total-scar area. In this analysis, NR-CTO was associated with worse acute procedural results and may as well impact long-term outcomes which should be further assessed in larger patient populations.
Mesopelagic particulate nitrogen dynamics in the subarctic and subtropical regions of the western North Pacific
Authors: Mino Yoshihisa , Sukigara Chiho , Kawakami Hajime , Wakita Masahide , Honda Makio C.
Published: September 2023

Recently, new spatiotemporal-scale particle observations by autonomous profiling floats equipped with bio-optical sensors have revealed that, in addition to gravitational particle sinking, the downward transport of surface particles by physical mixing events, which has been overlooked, contributes to particulate organic carbon export. However, the subsequent behavior of these exported particles in the mesopelagic zone (e.g., particle fragmentation and degradation) remains unclear, although it may influence the efficiency of carbon transport to further depths. This study successfully depicted the new annual mean mesopelagic particulate nitrogen (PN) dynamics with multi-layer, steady-state suspended PN pools by reanalyzing seasonal data on the stable nitrogen isotopic compositions of both suspended and sinking particles, each with different profiles, from subarctic station K2 and subtropical station S1 in the North Pacific, which are both CO2 sinks but in different oceanic settings. As analytical conditions, we assumed that the net loss of sinking PN was entirely due to abiotic fragmentation of particle aggregates to non-sinking particles and that the apparent 15N enrichment associated with heterotrophic degradation in the suspended PN pools was vertically constant. The 15N mass balance for the PN supply to the uppermost mesopelagic pool, derived from such constraints, allowed estimating the PN export by the mixed-layer pump, which was 1.6 times greater at K2 than at S1. However, its contribution to the total export (including gravitational PN sinking) from the surface layer was approximately 20% at both stations. Moreover, the ratio of PN supplied to the uppermost pool by the mixed-layer pump and by the fragmentation of particle aggregates was also similar at both stations, approximately 1:1. Using these ratios, together with separate observations of the mixed-layer pump-driven flux, it may be possible to estimate the efficiency of the particulate organic carbon transport due to the biological gravitational pump responsible for carbon sequestration in the deep sea.
The north–south shift of the ridge location of the western Pacific subtropical high and its influence on the July precipitation in the Jianghuai region from 1978 to 2021
Authors: Yang Ke , Liu Chunlei , Cai Jiaxi , Cao Ning , Liao Xiaoqing , Su Qianye , Jin Liang , Zheng Rong , Zhang Qingkui , Wang Lu
Published: September 2023

The Jianghuai region is the area between the Yangtze River and the Huai River in China and is a densely populated agriculture region therefore, the economics and human activity there are significantly affected by the precipitation changes, particularly during the summer when extreme storms and droughts normally occur. It will be helpful if the summer precipitation changes can be predicted. The monthly ERA5 atmospheric reanalysis data from 1978 to 2021 are used in this study to investigate the relationship between the ridge latitudinal location of the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) and the precipitation in July over the Jianghuai region. The results show that the WPSH ridge location has an important impact on the amount and spatial distribution of the precipitation in this region. When the ridge was northward, an anomalous anticyclonic circulation will appear over the western Pacific, leading to the weakening of the summer monsoon and the reduction of moisture transport from the Indian Ocean, therefore decreasing precipitation in the Jianghuai region, while the situation is opposite when the ridge was southward. The Niño 3.4 index in March and the India–Burma trough intensity index in June have significant correlations with the July WPSH ridge location, and both can be used as precursors to predict the WPSH ridge location and, therefore, the precipitation in this region.