bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENDUGAAN DEBIT PUNCAK PADA SUB-DAS KURANJI
Authors: Zainal Edwina , Zufrimar Zufrimar , Warman Hendri , Yusri Nori
Published: January 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menggambarkan peta sub-DAS Kuranji dengan menganalisa data DEMNAS pada perangkat Arc GIS, mendeskripsikan karakteristik curah hujan dan debit puncak dengan metode Rational pada setiap sub DAS. Hasil penelitian adalah pada DAS Kuranji terdapat 10 (sepuluh) sub DAS Kuranji, yaitu sub DAS Batang Padang Karuah, Batang Padang Janiah Hulu, Batang Padang Janiah, Batang Limau Manis, Batang Kuranji, Batang Sapih, Batang Aie Lareh, Batang Malvinas, Ulak Karang Utara dan Air Tawar. Sub DAS Padang Karuah merupakan sub DAS terluas pada DAS Kuranji, yaitu 47.88 km2, sedangkan sub DAS Malvinas merupakan sub DAS terkecil, yatitu 3.91 km2. Berdasarkan peta hasil penelitian, sungai Batang Balimbing, Batang Lurus dan Batang Maransi melewati Sub BAS Batang Aie Lareh dan memberikan kontribusi debit ekstrem pada kawasan DAS Kuranji tersebut.
PENENTUAN DISTRIBUSI SIFAT PADA FURNACE BOILER PEMBANGKIT LISTRIK TENAGA UAP LATI PT. INDO PUSAKA BERAU
Authors: Hasibuan Fardin , Widagdo Tri Jaya
Published: January 2024

Listrik sebagai salah satu kebutuhan rakyat yang harus tersedia oleh negara. Salah satu subsistem dalam memproduksi listrik adalah proses pembangkitan listrik. Listrik dapat dihasilkan dengan menggunakan Rencana Tenaga Uap, Hidro, Gas, Panas Bumi, dan lain-lain.  Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Uap Lati adalah salah satu PLTU berbahan bakar batubara. PLTU Lati harus beroperasi secara konsisten dan efisien sehingga layanan listrik ke konsumen dapat disuplai setiap saat. Salah satu peralatan utama dalam pembangkit listrik adalah boiler dan salah satu komponen boiler adalah evaporator. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui distribusi properti pada boiler PLTU Lati. Penelitian ini juga dalam rangka membantu pola operasional yang paling efisien. Penentuan distribusi simulasi ini divalidasi oleh hasil pengukuran di lapangan sehingga diketahui tingkat akurasi model ini.  Penentuan distribusi ini menunjukkan penyimpangan antara hasil simulasi dengan pengukuran 3%. Pengoperasian dengan beban 75% lebih efisien daripada beban 50%.
SISTIM PENGUNCI MEKANIK SEBAGAI SOLUSI POKAYOKE KEAMANAN PINTU LIFT PENGANGKUT BARANG
Authors: Hakim Arif Rahman
Published: January 2024

Penggunaan alat angkut barang sangat banyak ditemukan dalam kegiatan sehari hari, termasuk dalam kegiatan produksi. Salah satu alat angkut barang yang dipakai adalah lift. Alat ini digunakan untuk mengangkut barang antar lantai produksi. Salah satu persyaratan yang harus dipenuhi adalah persyaratan keamanan. Ini untuk memastikan bahwa alat tersebut tidak mencelakai pengguna maupun barang. Dalam kegiatan industri, kecelakaan adalah prioritas utama yang harus dicegah. Penggunaan alat pengangkutan antar lantai atau lift mempunyai risiko berupa terjatuhnya lift, tergencet atau kecelakaan. Salah satu potensi masalah keamanan lift adalah pintu lift yang dapat terbuka atau dibuka saat lift sedang beroperasi. Konsep poka yoke atau anti salah merupakan konsep yang dapat diterapkan untuk mencegah terjadinya kesalahan termasuk kecelakaan. Pada studi ini, dibahas tentang sistem pengaman pintu lift agar tidak bisa dibuka pada saat lift bekerja. Ada beberapa alternatif yang dapat dilakukan. Pada kajian ini, alternatif yang dipilih adalah sistem pengunci pintu mekanis yang menerapkan konsep poka yoke. Sistem kunci mekanis ini akan membuat pintu lift tidak dapat dibuka pada saat lift beroperasi. Pengujian berulang terhadap desain pengunci mekanis yang dibuat dengan penerapan konsep poka yoke menunjukkan bahwa desain tersebut bekerja secara efektif mencegah pintu lift dapat dibuka saat lift dioperasikan.
PENGARUH KEPUASAN KERJA DAN STRES KERJA TERHADAP TURNOVER INTENTION PADA PT. SUMBER MITRA KENCANA JAKARTA SELATAN
Authors: Febrianti Tetin
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACTObjective: This study aims to determine the effect of job satisfaction and job stress on turnover intention both partially and simultaneously on the aluminum distributor company PT Sumber Mitra Kencana located in South Jakarta in 2018.Methodology: Employee in company PT Sumber Mitra Kencana located in South Jakarta. The data analysis method used is Path Analysis using the SPSS 20.0 program.Finding: The first, second, third, and fourth (H) hypotheses were accepted because the t statistic value was greater than t table, and the p value was smaller than alpha 0.05.Conclusion: The results indicate that: The job satisfaction variable has no significant effect on turnover intention; The work stress variable has a significant positive effect on turnover intention; and The variables job satisfaction and work stress have a significant positive effect on turnover intention. Suggestions in this research include: companies are expected to be able to create a better work environment, in order to maintain harmony between employees and all aspects of the company environment.
RANCANGAN LAYANAN KEMAS ULANG INFORMASI DIGITAL UNTUK PEMENUHAN KEBUTUHAN INFORMASI PENGGUNA PERPUSTAKAAN UNIVERSITAS YARSI
Authors: Amalinda Ike , Kurnianingsih Indah , Kangko Danang Dwijo , Rizky Tiko Dhafin
Published: January 2024

Layanan kemas ulang informasi merupakan salah satu layanan pengguna perpustakaan yang membantu pengguna dalam memudahkan pencarian ke sumber informasi yang dibutuhkan dengan penyajian yang menarik dan interaktif. Berdasarkan observasi dan wawancara, Perpustakaan Universitas YARSI belum memiliki layanan kemas ulang informasi serta unit kelompok yang bertanggung jawab terhadap kegiatan pelayanan kemas ulang informasi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis jenis informasi potensial yang dimiliki Perpustakaan Universitas YARSI, dan menyusun rancangan kemas ulang informasi yang sesuai dengan kebutuhan pengguna Perpustakaan Universitas YARSI. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Aspek yang diteliti meliputi sumber informasi potensial yang dimiliki Perpustakaan Universitas YARSI dan kebutuhan pengguna sebagai bahan dalam pembuatan rancangan kemas ulang informasi. Pengumpulan data melalui observasi, wawancara kepada kepala dan staf perpustakaan dengan kriteria jenjang pendidikan sarjana ilmu perpustakaan, yaitu kepala perpustakaan dan staf pengelola Perpustakaan Universitas YARSI. Sebagai penguat data analisis kebutuhan perancangan layanan kemas ulang informasi, peneliti juga menggunakan kuesioner dengan sampel dari para pengguna sebanyak 40 responden terdiri dari  dosen dan mahasiswa Universitas YARSI dengan kriteria sampel yaitu dosen dan mahasiswa yang pernah berinteraksi dengan kemas ulang informasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa sumber informasi potensial yang dimiliki Perpustakaan Universitas YARSI bersumber dari kegiatan pendidikan, penelitian, dan pengabdian yang berfokus pada bidang informasi kesehatan, sosial, dan teknologi. Hasil lainnya menyatakan bahwa tahapan rancangan kemas ulang informasi berdasarkan  analisis kebutuhan pengguna Perpustakaan Universitas YARSI meliputi: (a) penentuan konten yang dibutuhkan. Berdasarkan analisis kuesioner, mayoritas responden sebanyak 75% atau 30 orang menyarankan agar Perpustakaan YARSI menyusun layanan kemas ulang informasi bersumber dari artikel jurnal; (b) pengumpulan bahan informasi yang berasal dari berbagai publikasi hasil pengabdian dan penelitian peneliti di Universitas YARSI; (c) analisis konten; (d) pengemasan informasi ke dalam produk sesuai dengan analisis kebutuhan dengan persentase 70-75%, yaitu pathfinder, poster,dan infografis.
Does COVID-19 Infection Pose a Risk to Women of Childbearing Age?
Authors: KIRATLI Kazım , ŞENGÜL Mustafa
Published: January 2024

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the potential differential impact of COVID-19 infection on pregnant women compared to non-pregnant individuals of childbearing age by evaluating laboratory findings from both inpatient and outpatient cases.
Material and Methods: From the onset of COVID-19 in Turkey in March 2020 until the commencement of vaccination, a total of 94 COVID-19 patients were included in three separate groups: pregnant women and non-pregnant individuals with COVID-19 (with and without pneumonia). Sociodemographic data and examination findings were retrospectively retrieved from the hospital information system.
Results: The study revealed that pregnant women, with a mean age of 28.87±1.38, experienced a significantly shorter mean length of hospital stay of 5.03±0.49 days compared to the other groups (p<0.001). Notably, pregnant women exhibited significant variations in urea, creatinine, white blood cell count, neutrophil count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit values in comparison to the other groups (p<0.001). Moreover, there were significant differences among the three groups concerning neutrophil and lymphocyte percentage values (p<0.001).
Conclusion: The study suggests that COVID-19 infection in pregnant women is associated with more favorable clinical outcomes, shorter length of hospital stay, and relatively moderate alterations in laboratory findings when accounting for pregnancy-induced changes. It is implied that pregnancy might not pose as substantial a risk factor for severe COVID-19 infection as advanced age or underlying chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, COPD, and malignancy.
Early Warning Score System (EWSS) Impelmentation Factors by Nurses as Early Detection Efforts Worsening of Covid-19 Patients in the Treatment Room
Authors: Sulastri Sulastri , Ma'ruf Hafidz , Maulana Hendra
Published: January 2024

Aims: One way to overcome the Covid-19 outbreak is by intra-hospital management. Fast and accurate management is needed to prevent complications and death in Covid-19. Early detection efforts to detect worsening of Covid-19 patients greatly help prevent more severe complications and death. This study aims to determine the factors of implementing the patient's EWSS in an effort to detect the worsening of Covid-19 in the treatment room at one of the hospitals in East Jakarta.
Methods: The research uses descriptive analytic method with a cross sectional approach. Respondents are nurses who are experienced in treating Covid-19 patients in the treatment room with a total of 121 respondents. Bivariate data analysis used the Somers'd test, multiple ordinal regression multivariate test and partial Wald test.
Result: Two factors were found that were significantly related to the implementation of EWSS in Covid-19 patients in the treatment room at the hospital, namely the level of knowledge and nurse compliance.
Conclusion: This study recommends efforts to increase nurses' knowledge and compliance regarding the implementation of EWSS for Covid-19 patients through regular training, workshops and good supervision.
Nurse Mental Workload and Completeness of Documentation in COVID-19 Isolation Rooms
Authors: Yulanda Nita Arisanti , Fitriasari Andikawati , Fradianto Ikbal , Kurniawan Cahya Dwi
Published: January 2024

Aims : This study is to find out the relationship between nurse mental workload and completeness of documentation in isolation rooms during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Design : This research was correlational with a cross-sectional approach.
Methods : The design of this study was a quantitative study with a cross-sectional approach. This study used primary data obtained through direct observation using a questionnaire consisting of patient demographic data, the mental workload was measured by NASA-TLX (National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index validity test obtained the value of r= 0,690 – 0,775 and reliability test Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0,797 and the completeness of documentation was measured using the standard instrument for standard documentation evaluation of the Ministry of Health. The research population was nurses who treated COVID-19 patients in Pontianak. Sampling was done using non-probability sampling using a purposive sampling technique with inclusion criteria, nurses who treat Covid-19 patients for at least 5 months. The number of samples was 30 nurses and 24 nursing care documents. Data analysis in this study used the bivariate Spearman's Rho test
Results : The results of Spearman's rho analysis showed a significant value or Sig. (2-tailed) of 0.026. Because the value of Sig (2-tailed) 0.026 was < less than 0.05, there was a significant relationship between mental workload and the completeness of nursing care documentation.
Conclusions : The increase in the number of patients makes the workload higher because it is not proportional to the ratio of nurses to patients.
Preventing Stunting Through Digital Family Empowerment: A Thematic Literature Review
Authors: Syamsir Syamikar Baridwan , Setiawan Agus , Kurwiyah Neneng , Naralia T. Widya , Supriyatno Heru , Mar'ah Novya Ashlahatul
Published: January 2024

Aims: The increasing prevalence of stunting and its associated morbidities highlight the need for effective prevention measures. Digital-based family empowerment interventions have been identified as a promising approach to prevent stunting. This study aims to investigate various types of digital-based family empowerment interventions in preventing stunting and optimizing child growth.
Method: It is a thematic literature review using a semi-structured search approach with predefined keywords in four major databases, namely Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, and Google Scholar. The research applies a systematic research method with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and sets search boundaries using the PICO (Population/Problem, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) approach. Three search criteria include digital-based family empowerment interventions for stunting prevention, articles published within the last five years, and written in English or Indonesian.
Result: From the search, nine articles were selected, forming three main themes: (1) digital-based child growth and development monitoring programs in preventing stunting; (2) digital-based health education programs for stunting prevention; and (3) digital-based nutrition counseling programs in preventing stunting.
Conclusion: Digital-based family empowerment interventions have proven to be effective in stunting prevention efforts. With a better understanding of these interventions, it is hoped that knowledge and skills in preventing stunting and optimizing child growth can be enhanced. The role of nurses can be pivotal in integrating technology into family education.
Application Development and Content Validation of "SinoBed" for Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Monitoring
Authors: Taryudi Taryudi , Lindayani Linlin , Darmawati Irma , Mutiar Astri , Wijaya Silman Silman Juwana
Published: January 2024

Aims: This study aimed to describe the application development and validation of the "SinoBed" application for pressure ulcer prevention and monitoring.
Methods: The Delphi technique was used in this study to validate the researchers' content. Twelve specialists willing to help with this research validate the content of the SinoBed application. The experts were invited through email to participate in the study, and they were then issued an electronic form to fill out and return for evaluation. The data collecting tool was created using the Google Forms® platform and included a sociodemographic survey of the participants and an evaluative survey with seventeen closed-ended questions. We used the CVI (Content Validity Index) to check the information and modified kappa.
Results: The study involved twenty experts, but only twelve participated. The I-CVI ranged from 0.92 to 1.00. The summary received mostly positive expert assessments throughout the study. The SinoBed app has a collection of five unique algorithms. The topics to be discussed in this paper include: 1) Identification creation, 2) Roles as a patient or nurse, 3) Monitoring position and mobilization, 4) Nursing care plan, and 5) Education.
Conclusion: The content supplied in SinoBed® was validated using an expert consensus. The experts determined that the mobile application is suitable for preventing pressure ulcers.
Longitudinal characterization of the captive adult and tadpole Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) microbiome
Authors: Scarberry Nicole , McAdams Zachary L. , Benson Derek , Herrick Jason , Moore Brandon Christopher , Ericsson Aaron C.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

At one time thought to be extinct in the wild, the Wyoming toad (Anaxyrus baxteri) is one of the most critically endangered North American amphibian species. Despite approximately 20 years of ex situ breeding and reintroduction programs, this species remains functionally extinct in the wild. There is concern among those working in these programs that individuals bred in captivity fail to develop a microbiome that withstands the stressors of their native habitat following release. In related species, the skin microbiome has been shown to have a defensive function against common pathogens affecting these animals. However, the early-life microbiome of developing tadpoles in this species remains unknown and, therefore, this defensive function is unexplored in the Wyoming toad.

Methods

This study employed 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to document the baseline microbiome of tadpole and adult Wyoming toads bred for release at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (Omaha, Nebraska, USA). We characterized the development of the mucosal microbiome in tadpoles and the mucosal and cloacal microbiome of adult toads.

Results

Our results revealed significant differences between tadpole and adult microbiomes, as well as significant sex-dependent differences within the adult Wyoming toads, in terms of richness and composition.

Discussion

These findings have identified the baseline microbiome of this endangered species and variables significantly influencing its composition in captivity. Ongoing studies of the only extant wild population are expected to identify taxa not found in captive toads, and potentially help 100 design husbandry modifications to maximize survivability following reintroduction to the wild.
Arterial pCO2 prediction using saphenous pCO2 in healthy mechanically ventilated dogs
Authors: Ghilardi Sara , Gamba Davide , Zanaboni Anna Maria , Brambilla Paola G. , Casarrubea Antonio , Drummer Pauline , Balsamino Martina , Ghezzi Dario , Ricci Cristina , Caristi Danilo , Bussadori Claudio M. , Ravasio Giuliano
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Arterial blood gas analysis is the gold standard for the assessment of oxygenation, ventilation, and metabolic status in dogs; however, its execution is difficult and painful. Therefore, venous blood gas analysis is used in its replacement for the assessment of the metabolic status, but it is not clear whether it can be used to assess respiratory function, too. This study aimed at: 1) comparing jugular and saphenous pH and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) with the correspondent arterial pH and pCO2 (paCO2) in healthy dogs during general anesthesia; 2) clarifying whether the arterial-venous relationship is better expressed in jugular or saphenous blood samples; 3) mathematically transforming venous pCO2 (pvCO2) and evaluating whether the calculated values more accurately agree with paCO2.

Methods

Ninety dogs were included and randomly divided into three groups: Group 1 - arterial vs jugular; Group 2 - arterial vs saphenous; Group 3 - arterial vs jugular vs saphenous blood gases. Each group counted 30 dogs. Pearson correlations were calculated. Bland-Altman plots were generated to describe the agreement between venous and arterial values; clinical limits for pH and pCO2 set by the authors were, respectively, ± 0.1 and ± 2.5 mmHg. Univariate linear regression was applied for predicting paCO2 from pvCO2.

Results

Saphenous samples showed strong positive correlations with arterial samples for both pCO2 and pH. Pearson ρ values were stronger for pH than for pCO2. Bland-Altman plots showed good agreement between venous and arterial pH, and poor agreement between pvCO2 and paCO2 for both jugular and saphenous samples. Results suggested that saphenous pvCO2 is preferable with respect to jugular as predictor of paCO2. The transformation of saphenous pvCO2 through univariate linear regression produced a model for predicting paCO2; a Bland-Altman plot assessed the transformed pvCO2 agreement with paCO2.

Discussion

In healthy, anesthetized, mechanically ventilated dogs, variations of pH between venous and arterial values are clinically acceptable. Venous and arterial blood gases cannot be interchanged for the evaluation of pCO2. Saphenous pvCO2 is to be preferable to jugular pvCO2 as predictor of paCO2. A formula for the estimation of predicted paCO2 from saphenous pvCO2 is proposed.
Smart nanogels for cancer treatment from the perspective of functional groups
Authors: Yu Jiachen , Liu Yuting , Zhang Yingchun , Ran Rong , Kong Zixiao , Zhao Duoyi , Liu Minda , Zhao Wei , Cui Yan , Hua Yingqi , Gao Lianbo , Zhang Zhiyu , Yang Yingxin
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Cancer remains a significant health challenge, with chemotherapy being a critical treatment modality. However, traditional chemotherapy faces limitations due to non-specificity and toxicity. Nanogels, as advanced drug carriers, offer potential for targeted and controlled drug release, improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects.

Methods: This review summarizes the latest developments in nanogel-based chemotherapy drug delivery systems, focusing on the role of functional groups in drug loading and the design of smart hydrogels with controlled release mechanisms. We discuss the preparation methods of various nanogels based on different functional groups and their application in cancer treatment.

Results: Nanogels composed of natural and synthetic polymers, such as chitosan, alginate, and polyacrylic acid, have been developed for chemotherapy drug delivery. Functional groups like carboxyl, disulfide, and hydroxyl groups play crucial roles in drug encapsulation and release. Smart hydrogels have been engineered to respond to tumor microenvironmental cues, such as pH, redox potential, temperature, and external stimuli like light and ultrasound, enabling targeted drug release.

Discussion: The use of functional groups in nanogel preparation allows for the creation of multifunctional nanogels with high drug loading capacity, controllable release, and good targeting. These nanogels have shown promising results in preclinical studies, with enhanced antitumor effects and reduced systemic toxicity compared to traditional chemotherapy.

Conclusion: The development of smart nanogels with functional group-mediated drug delivery and controlled release strategies represents a promising direction in cancer therapy. These systems offer the potential for improved patient outcomes by enhancing drug targeting and minimizing adverse effects. Further research is needed to optimize nanogel design, evaluate their safety and efficacy in clinical trials, and explore their potential for personalized medicine.
“Metal-bone” scaffold for accelerated peri-implant endosseous healing
Authors: Lu Yue , Wang Xianggang , Chen Hao , Li Xin , Liu He , Wang Jincheng , Qian Zhihui
Published: January 2024

Restoring bone defects caused by conditions such as tumors, trauma, or inflammation is a significant clinical challenge. Currently, there is a need for the development of bone tissue engineering scaffolds that meet clinical standards to promote bone regeneration in these defects. In this study, we combined the porous Ti6Al4V scaffold in bone tissue engineering with advanced bone grafting techniques to create a novel “metal-bone” scaffold for enhanced bone regeneration. Utilizing 3D printing technology, we fabricated a porous Ti6Al4V scaffold with an average pore size of 789 ± 22.69 μm. The characterization and biocompatibility of the scaffold were validated through in vitro experiments. Subsequently, the scaffold was implanted into the distal femurs of experimental animals, removed after 3 months, and transformed into a “metal-bone” scaffold. When this “metal-bone” scaffold was re-implanted into bone defects in the animals, the results demonstrated that, in comparison to a plain porous Ti6Al4V scaffold, the scaffold containing bone tissue achieved accelerated early-stage bone regeneration. The experimental group exhibited more bone tissue generation in the early stages at the defect site, resulting in superior bone integration. In conclusion, the “metal-bone” scaffold, containing bone tissue, proves to be an effective bone-promoting scaffold with promising clinical applications.
Glycocalyx analysis of bladder cancer: three-dimensional images in electron microscopy and vicia villosa lectin as a marker for invasiveness in frozen sections
Authors: Enomoto Torai , Okada Hideshi , Tomita Hiroyuki , Iinuma Koji , Nakane Keita , Tobisawa Yuki , Hara Akira , Koie Takuya
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The abnormal glycocalyx (GCX) on the surface of cancer cells has been reported to be tall and aberrantly glycosylated and has been linked to the progression and spread of cancer—a finding also observed in bladder cancer. However, the characteristics of GCX in various types of human bladder cancer remain unknown, and herein, we aimed to provide information on the diversity of glycan components in the GCX of bladder cancers and to shed light on their characteristics.

Methods: We used scanning electron microscopy and lanthanum staining to examine the surface GCX of human bladder carcinomas in three-dimensional images, showing the bulky GCX in some carcinomas. We also examined glycan alterations in early to progressive stages of bladder cancers using 20 distinct lectin stains on frozen sections from transurethral resection of bladder tumors.

Results and discussion: Distinctive Vicia villosa lectin (VVL) staining was observed in invasive urothelial carcinomas, including those with muscle invasion and variant components. In the clinical setting, cancers with atypia of grades 2–3 had a significantly higher VVL scoring intensity than those with grade 1 atypia (p < 0.005). This study identified that a specific lectin, VVL, was more specific to invasive urothelial carcinomas. This lectin, which selectively binds to sites of cancer progression, is a promising target for drug delivery in future clinical investigations.
Porphyrins—valuable pigments of life
Authors: Nikolaou Vasilis , Nikoloudakis Emmanouil , Ladomenou Kalliopi , Charalambidis Georgios , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: January 2024

Porphyrin complexes are present in many natural systems and have significant biological roles, such as light harvesting, oxygen transport, and catalysis. Owing to their intrinsic aromatic structure, porphyrin derivatives exhibit characteristic photophysical and electrochemical properties. Porphyrins and porphyrin-based derivatives have been extensively utilized in biomedical applications during the last decade. Specifically, porphyrinoids have been tested as agents in antimicrobial and photodynamic therapy, as well as in imaging applications (e.g., diagnosis of cancer cells). This perspective article summarizes the recent developments in our group concerning the application of porphyrin derivatives in biomedical applications. The current challenges and future prospects concerning the exploitation of porphyrin-based materials in biomedical applications are also discussed.
Poaching and hunting, conflicts and health: human dimensions of wildlife conservation in the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Montanheiro Paolino Roberta , Testa José Caroline , Fernandes-Santos Renata Carolina , Bueno Landis Mariana , Medeiros de Pinho Gabriela , Medici Emília Patrícia
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Understanding human-wildlife interactions is critical to overcoming the socio-environmental crises we face worldwide. Among these interactions, poaching and hunting, human-wildlife conflict, and transmission of zoonotic diseases are major causes of biodiversity loss and detrimental to human well-being. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze wildlife poaching, feral pig hunting, human-wildlife conflict, and health issues in a region of the Brazilian Cerrado, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. The study also focused on the lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris), a poached species listed as vulnerable to extinction.

Methods

From October 2016 to September 2017, we conducted face-to-face semi-structured interviews with 51 local people from nine stakeholder groups. Interview answers and additional information compiled during the study were evaluated using coding, narrative, and co-occurrence analyses.

Results and discussion

We found that the main human-wildlife conflict in the region involves feral pigs, and hunting is practiced as a population control strategy. The lowland tapir is not considered a conflictual species, as it is beloved by most people. However, tapirs are still poached, although less so than in the past, mainly for cultural reasons. Culture was the main motivation behind wildlife poaching in general. We identified 28 species and five taxa currently poached in this Cerrado region, of which 11 are used for medical and aphrodisiac purposes. Historically, wildlife poaching was linked to poor livelihood conditions and lack of support from governmental institutions during the Agrarian Reform process, becoming a cultural habit over the years. Nevertheless, wildlife poaching is less frequent than in the past, and its main barriers are surveillance, poaching prohibition by landowners, and social norm. Therefore, promoting a change in the way people relate to nature, meeting socioeconomic needs, and increasing surveillance appear to be important conservation strategies. Although feral pig hunting may replace wildlife poaching, some hunters still poach wild species, especially peccaries. Hence, it is necessary to keep hunters under surveillance, raise awareness among them, and make them allies in conservation strategies. We found a worryingly low level of awareness about disease transmission risk through bushmeat manipulation and consumption, highlighting the importance of One Health approaches.
Neural mechanisms involved in female mate choice in invertebrates
Authors: Cordero-Molina Sagrario , Fetter-Pruneda Ingrid , Contreras-Garduño Jorge
Published: January 2024

Mate choice is a critical decision with direct implications for fitness. Although it has been recognized for over 150 years, our understanding of its underlying mechanisms is still limited. Most studies on mate choice focus on the evolutionary causes of behavior, with less attention given to the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved. This is especially true for invertebrates, where research on mate choice has largely focused on male behavior. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on the neural, molecular and neurohormonal mechanisms of female choice in invertebrates, including behaviors before, during, and after copulation. We identify areas of research that have not been extensively explored in invertebrates, suggesting potential directions for future investigation. We hope that this review will stimulate further research in this area.
The impact of the Belt and Road Initiative on green innovation and innovation modes: empirical evidence from Chinese listed enterprises
Authors: Li Bowen , Zhang Zijing , Zhang Zhaoyong
Published: January 2024

Under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), promoting green innovation in enterprises has been the central focus of the developmental strategy for China and countries along the Belt and Road to ensure sustainable development in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to the environment and development. This paper examines the driving factors and heterogeneous mechanisms of the BRI in green technology innovation, especially in collaborative vs. independent innovation modes, utilizing a multi-period difference-in-difference model (DID) and micro-level panel data of Chinese listed enterprises spanning from 2007 to 2021. We find that the BRI has significantly stimulated the number of green innovations of participating enterprises, primarily through the adoption of collaborative innovation mode, and the BRI policies are more likely to induce green innovation behavior of enterprises with high research and development (R&D), high quality of environmental information disclosure, and non-state-owned enterprises (SOEs), as well as in heavy-polluting industries. The implementation of the BRI has led to increased support from the government, financial institutions, and scientific research organizations to the participating enterprises, which helps alleviate their financial constraints and enhance patent transformation efficiency, and thus facilitate green innovation. These results are robust across different regression specifications. This study contributes to the existing literature on BRI’s environmental impact and green innovation with firm-level evidence, and has important policy implications for the Chinese government when promoting green innovation and internationalization of Chinese enterprises.
A global synthesis of reported urban tree carbon production rates and approaches
Authors: Jenerette G. Darrel , Herrmann Dustin L.
Published: January 2024

Trees are a prominent feature of urban ecosystems. Urban tree productivity is a key component of urban ecosystem energetics and has been identified as a possible pathway for reducing global greenhouse gas concentrations. Recently, extensive research has been directed to evaluating the carbon dynamics of urban trees in cities throughout the world. Here, we synthesize this research, using results from previous studies from 154 cities to identify the distribution of urban tree productivity globally and the basis for generating urban tree productivity estimates. Reported urban tree productivity shows a strong relationship with estimated tree carbon content and exhibits increases with both temperature and precipitation, with land cover differences influencing the degree of climate sensitivity. Compared with a reference productivity estimate, urban trees showed greatly reduced estimated rates of productivity and the magnitude of reduced productivity was inversely correlated with precipitation but was independent of temperature. Reported rates of productivity across all studies suggest climate restrictions that are more important with less intensively managed land covers. Scaling these results globally suggests a limited opportunity for urban trees to contribute to atmospheric carbon dioxide reductions, especially in the absence of major carbon emission reductions. We found that the majority of results are derived from tree inventories from a single period with rates of productivity estimate through quasi-empirical or allometric models. The majority of studies have been conducted in temperate biomes and North America. These results show that existing urban tree assessments have substantial methodological restrictions and regional biases. Future research of urban tree productivity should look toward improved methods and can use this synthesis as a baseline for comparisons and improvement.
Study on the factors influencing ecological environment and zoning control: a study case of the Dongting Lake area
Authors: Yin Xiangpeng , Lu Zhaoyan , Zhang Benqing
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Protecting the ecosystem of the Dongting Lake area is of utmost importance for maintaining ecological balance and achieving human well-being.

Methods

This study identifies the key factors influencing the remote sensing based ecological index (RESI) in the Dongting Lake area based on the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of the RESI and environmental changes and anthropogenic disturbance factors. The priority zoning for ecological restoration was delineated in combination with the anthropogenic composite index (ACI). By exploring the influence of anthropogenic disturbances on RESI, the zoning locations were determined using spatial statistics and linear regression methods.

Results

The overall RESI of the Dongting Lake area showed a decline from 2001 to 2020, with the mean value decreasing from 0.52 to 0.48. High-quality zones were mainly located in mountainous and forested areas, while low-quality zones were mainly distributed in more developed cities in the east urban area. Anthropogenic factors were the main reasons for the decline in the ecological environment, while natural factors showed a positive correlation with RESI. Based on the RESI and ACI, four ecological control zones (H-H, H-L, L-H, and L-L) were delineated, which accounted for a total of 45.66% of the Dongting Lake area. Among them, 3.91% required immediate control and management, while 17.80% required artificial maintenance. This study explores the influencing factors and mechanisms of the ecological environment quality in the Dongting Lake area, and explores the effective spatial paths for the implementation of ecological restoration zoning control and differentiated restoration strategies in the Dongting Lake area.

Discussion

This study provides a scientific basis for mitigating ecological and environmental problems in the Dongting Lake area, and provides a reference for ecological restoration and regulation and the realization of sustainable development goals in China and global regions with complex environmental problems.
QTL mapping: insights into genomic regions governing component traits of yield under combined heat and drought stress in wheat
Authors: Manjunath Karthik Kumar , Krishna Hari , Devate Narayana Bhat , Sunilkumar V. P. , Patil Sahana Police , Chauhan Divya , Singh Shweta , Kumar Sudhir , Jain Neelu , Singh Gyanendra Pratap , Singh Pradeep Kumar
Published: January 2024

Drought and heat frequently co-occur during crop growth leading to devastating yield loss. The knowledge of the genetic loci governing component traits of yield under combined drought and heat stress is essential for enhancing the climate resilience. The present study employed a mapping population of 180 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between GW322 and KAUZ to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) governing the component traits of yield under heat and combined stress conditions. Phenotypic evaluation was conducted across two consecutive crop seasons (2021–2022 and 2022–2023) under late sown irrigation (LSIR) and late sown restricted irrigation (LSRI) conditions at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research Institute–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI), New Delhi. Various physiological and agronomic traits of importance were measured. Genotyping was carried out with 35K SNP Axiom breeder’s genotyping array. The linkage map spanned a length of 6769.45 cM, ranging from 2.28 cM/marker in 1A to 14.21 cM/marker in 5D. A total of 35 QTLs were identified across 14 chromosomes with 6B containing the highest (seven) number of QTLs. Out of 35 QTLs, 16 were major QTLs explaining the phenotypic variance greater than 10%. The study identified eight stable QTLs along with two hotspots on chromosomes 6B and 5B. Five QTLs associated with traits thousand-grain weight (TGW), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and plant height (PH) were successfully validated. Candidate genes encoding antioxidant enzymes, transcription factors, and growth-related proteins were identified in the QTL regions. In silico expression analysis highlighted higher expression of transcripts TraesCS2D02G021000.1, TraesCS2D02G031000, TraesCS6A02G247900, and TraesCS6B02G421700 under stress conditions. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the genetic architecture underlying combined heat and drought tolerance in wheat, providing valuable insights for wheat improvement strategies under changing climatic conditions.
Assessing the coherence in biological and environmental drivers of young sea bass abundance across important estuarine nursery areas of the northern European sea bass stock
Authors: Watson Joseph W. , Radford Zachary , Bannister Hayley , Bradley Robin , Brown Mary , Ciotti Benjamin J. , Goodwin Derek , Graham Jennifer A. , Nash Richard D. M. , Roche William K. , Wogerbauer Ciara , Hyder Kieran
Published: January 2024

Year class strength is an important determinant of fish population size, but the drivers are often unknown. The northern stock of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) is an important target species for both commercial and recreational fisheries. Scientific assessments showed a rapid decline in spawning stock biomass from 2010-18 attributed to a combination of fishing mortality and poor year class strength. Recruitment to the adult stock is linked to the abundance and temporal dynamics of young bass in estuarine nursery areas, but little is known about the relative importance of environmental and biological drivers on the survival of these young life stages. In this study, we use Generalised Linear Models to attempt to identify important local environmental (sea surface temperature and river flow) and biological (chlorophyll-a concentration and predator abundance) drivers of young sea bass abundance. We focus on seven British and Irish estuarine areas that are important to the northern stock of European sea bass. In four English estuarine areas there were good model fits to the abundance of young sea bass, but predictors differed amongst these suggesting that drivers of abundance may differ among individual nursery areas. This was further demonstrated by poor fits of models generated for English estuaries to interannual patterns of abundance in the Irish nursery areas tested. The differences found in the most important abundance drivers amongst areas highlight the complex and differing dynamics between estuaries. If the number of young bass that eventually join the adult stock is dependent on survivors from a diverse set of unique nursery area conditions, then endeavours to incorporate this knowledge into fisheries management should be further explored.
Synergistic bioconversion of organic waste by black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae and thermophilic cellulose-degrading bacteria
Authors: Shao Mingying , Zhao Xiao , Rehman Kashif Ur , Cai Minmin , Zheng Longyu , Huang Feng , Zhang Jibin
Published: January 2024

Introduction

This study examines the optimum conversion of Wuzhishan pig manure by Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) at various phases of development, as well as the impact of gut microbiota on conversion efficiency.

Method and results

In terms of conversion efficiency, BSFL outperformed the growing pig stage (GP) group, with significantly higher survival rates (96.75%), fresh weight (0.23 g), and larval conversion rate (19.96%) compared to the other groups. Notably, the GP group showed significant dry matter reductions (43.27%) and improved feed conversion rates (2.17). Nutritional composition varied, with the GP group having a lower organic carbon content. High throughput 16S rRNA sequencing revealed unique profiles, with the GP group exhibiting an excess of Lactobacillus and Clostridium. Promising cellulose-degrading bacteria in pig manure and BSFL intestines, including Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis, showed superior cellulose degradation capabilities. The synergy of these thermophilic bacteria with BSFL greatly increased conversion efficiency. The BSFL1-10 group demonstrated high growth and conversion efficiency under specific conditions, with remarkable larval moisture content (71.11%), residual moisture content (63.20%), and waste reduction rate (42.28%).

Discussion

This study sheds light on the optimal stages for BSFL conversion of pig manure, gut microbiota dynamics, promising thermophilic cellulose-degrading bacteria, and the significant enhancement of efficiency through synergistic interactions. These findings hold great potential for sustainable waste management and efficient biomass conversion, contributing to environmental preservation and resource recovery.
Correlation and underlying brain mechanisms between rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and executive functions in Parkinson’s disease: an fNIRS study
Authors: Ren Lu , Yin Xiaoxue , Wang Hai-Yang , Hao Xinqing , Wang Da , Jin Feng , Zhang Tingting , Li Tao , Zhou Tingting , Liang Zhanhua
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) affects 30%–40% of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and has been linked to a higher risk of cognitive impairment, especially executive dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate the brain activation patterns in PD patients with RBD (PD-RBD+) compared to those without RBD (PD-RBD−) and healthy controls (HCs), and to analyze the correlation between changes in cerebral cortex activity and the severity of RBD.

Methods

We recruited 50 PD patients, including 30 PD-RBD+, 20 PD-RBD−, and 20 HCs. We used functional near infrared spectroscopy during a verbal fluency task (VFT-fNIRS) and clinical neuropsychological assessment to explore the correlation between PD-RBD+ and executive function and changes in neural activity.

Results

The VFT-fNIRS analysis revealed a significant reduction in activation among PD-RBD+ patients across multiple channels when compared to both the PD-RBD− and HC groups. Specifically, PD-RBD+ patients exhibited diminished activation in the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and the right ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) relative to their PD-RBD− counterparts. Furthermore, compared to the HC group, PD-RBD+ patients displayed reduced activation specifically in the right DLPFC. Significantly, a noteworthy negative correlation was identified between the average change in oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (ΔHbO2) in the right DLPFC of PD-RBD+ patients and the severity of their RBD.

Conclusion

Our study offers compelling evidence that RBD exacerbates cognitive impairment in PD, manifested as executive dysfunction, primarily attributed to reduced prefrontal activation. These aberrations in brain activation may potentially correlate with the severity of RBD.
Short-term effects of foot surgery on walking-related pain, function, and satisfaction in patients with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Basini Giacomo , Rambelli Chiara , Galletti Martina , Zerbinati Paolo , Prati Paolo , Mascioli Francesca , Masiero Stefano , Mazzoli Davide , Merlo Andrea
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Patients with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease (CMT) often suffer from walking-related pain (WRP), muscle weakness, foot deformities, and reduced ankle dorsiflexion (DF), which affects their ability to walk and daily activities. Functional surgery (FS) can restore foot deviations, affecting the loading ability during gait. We assessed the short-term effects of FS in patients with CMT on WRP, foot and ankle structure, and function, along with patients’ perceived improvement.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study on CMT patients who had undergone FS and rehabilitation. We analyzed the changes after 1 month, focusing on WRP, DF, the center of pressure progression (COPP) during walking, and measures of walking ability. The non-parametric Wilcoxon test was used.

Results

Ten patients were included. One month after FS, WRP reduced from 5.5 (IQR = 3.5) to 2 (IQR = 3.5), p = 0.063, with an effect size of 0.615. The highest decrease was found in patients with very high pre-surgical pain levels. DF almost reached 10° for both active and passive movements (p < 0.05), and COPP improved from 44 to 60% (p = 0.009) of foot length. Gait speed, lower limb functioning, and balance did not change. More than half of the sample felt improved or much improved after FS.

Conclusion

FS can be effective in reducing WRP and restoring foot posture in CMT patients in the short-term, which allows them to wear shoes, and leads to a perceived improvement and satisfaction. Lack of improvement in functional skills may be due to muscle weakness typical of CMT. Studies with longer follow-ups may confirm these hypotheses.