bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Perceptions of Technology, Risk and Handling Complaints on Customer Interest in Using Internet Banking At Bank Syari'ah Indonesia (BSI) KC Kisaran
Authors: Khoiriaturrahmah Miftah , Anggraini Tuti , Jannah Nurul
Published: February 2024

Bank Syari'ah Indonesia (BSI) is one of the companies that also utilizes information technology through digital services. Only not all digital services have many users, such as internet banking which is less than M-banking users.  This study aims to determine the effect of perceived technology, risk and complaint handling on customer interest in using Internet banking at Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) Kisaran Branch Office. This research is a type of descriptive quantitative research. The population in this study were BSI customers at the Kisaran Branch Office. While the sample was obtained as many as 100 customers. Data collection techniques using questionnaires and documentation. The data analysis technique uses multiple regression analysis where before conducting multiple regression tests, classical assumption testing is carried out. The results of this study are Technology Perceptions, affecting customer interest in using Internet Banking at Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) Branch Office in Kisaran. Risk, affects customer interest in using Internet Banking at Bank Syari'ah Indonesia (BSI) Kisaran Branch Office. Handling Complaints, affects customer interest in using Internet Banking at Bank Syari'ah Indonesia (BSI),isaran Branch Office. The suggestion of this research is that it is hoped that the BSI Kisaran Branch Office will conduct broader socialization and promotion to further introduce the presence of Internet Bangking to potential customers.

Keywords: Technologi Perception, Risk, Complaint Handling, Customer Interest
Pre- and Post-Local Anesthesia Hemodynamics in Patients with Ophthalmology Surgery
Authors: Lusiana Devi Ni Luh Putu , Setiabudi I Ketut , Wicaksana I Gusti Agung Tresna , Wahyuningsih Luh Gde Nita Sri
Published: February 2024

Effective and safe anesthesia in eye surgery is essential to ensure optimal perioperative care for both children and adults, so hemodynamic monitoring is essential. The use of local anesthesia can increase systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure without changing heart rate. A quantitative descriptive study with a cross-sectional approach involved 138 patients with purposive sampling techniques. Univariate analysis with frequency distribution was used in this study. The results showed that pre-anesthetic systolic TD ≥ 147 mmHg as much as 56%, pre-anesthesia diastolic TD < 78 mmHg as much as 51%, MAP ≥ 101 mmHg as much as 54%, and heart rate < 79 x / minute. While systolic TD after anesthesia ≥ 147 mmHg as much as 59%, diastolic TD ≥ 78 mmHg as much as 62%, MAP ≥ 101 mmHg as much as 64%, and heart rate < 79 x / minute as much as 58%. Changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure were found in pre and post-anesthesia, so more detailed monitoring is needed.
Analysis of Spiritual Well Being on the Quality of Life of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus in Tambun Health Center Area
Authors: Giyaningtyas Ika Juita , Elizabeth Beatrix
Published: February 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that cannot be completely cured which affects Diabetes Quality of Life (DQoL). Spirituality is an element that can affect quality of life, especially in patients with diabetes mellitus. This study aims to analyze spiritual well being on the quality of life of patients with diabetes mellitus. This research is correlational with a cross sectional approach. Respondents in this study amounted to 38 respondents who were taken by accidental sampling technique. The research instruments used were the Spiritual Well Being (SWB) and DQoL questionnaires. The results of this study indicate that there is a relationship between spiritual well being and the quality of life of patients with diabetes mellitus in the Tambun Health Center area. Thus, the higher the spiritual well being value of diabetes mellitus patients, the better the patient's quality of life.
Audio-Visual Therapy for Anxiety of Preoperative Patients Sectio Caesarea in the Central Surgical Installation Room of Ajibarang Hospital
Authors: Triana Noor Yunida , Haniyah Siti , A'yuni Qurrotul
Published: February 2024

Sectio Caesarea (SC) is a surgical procedure in labor that can cause anxiety. These feelings can occur due to fear of death, failed medication and complications. One of the therapies to reduce anxiety of SC preoperative patients with audio-visual therapy.  This study aims to determine the effect of audio-visual therapy on the anxiety of SC preoperative patients in the Central Surgical Installation Room (IBS) of Ajibarang Hospital. The study used quantitative methods with experimental design in the form of pre-experimental design one group pretest-posttest. The sample was mothers who will undergo SC in the IBS Room of Ajibarang Hospital, a total of 30 respondents with purposive sampling techniques. The research instrument used the APAIS questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. The results of the study obtained a p value of 0.000 < 0.05, so it can be concluded that there are differences in the anxiety level of SC preoperative patients before and after audiovisual therapy in the IBS Room of Ajibarang Hospital. In conclusion, there are differences in the level of anxiety before and after audiovisual therapy is given to the anxiety level of SC preoperative patients in the IBS Room of Ajibarang Hospital.
Comparison of Knowledge and Traditional Medicine Use Patterns Among Health and Non-Health Students in Medan City
Authors: Wahyudi Wahyudi , Fathur Rifqy Iqbal , Kayla Mazril Zahra , Fatila Nabila
Published: February 2024

Traditional medicine is an ingredient or concoction made from elements in the form of plants, animals, minerals, extract preparations (galenic), or a mixture of these ingredients, which has been used for treatment for generations. This research aims to describe the knowledge and patterns of use of traditional medicine among health and non-health students. This research is descriptive quantitative research using survey methods. Data was collected using a questionnaire via Google form, which was then analyzed to describe the research results. The research results showed that 43.86% of health students understood and comprehended traditional medicine knowledge, while 24.5% of non-health students had low knowledge of traditional medicine. The pattern of traditional medicine use by health students is 76.87% lower than that of non-health students, who use traditional medicine patterns as much as 80.96%. The conclusion of this research is that the level of knowledge regarding traditional medicine is better in health students at around 43.86% compared to non-health students, and the pattern of effort to use traditional medicine is more significant in non-health students at 80.96% than in health students.
User Interface Experience Analysis of PMB Online Buddhi Dharma Using System Usability Scale
Authors: Junaedi  , Maranto Ardiane Rossi Kurniawan , Putri Maysha Permata , Suwitno
Published: February 2024

In the era of advanced digital technologies, the admission process for new students (PMBs) has become a critical aspect of education. To streamline and expedite this process, educational institutions are increasingly utilizing online enrollment applications. One such application, PMB Online Buddhi Dharma, plays a crucial role in this context. However, the success of these applications is not solely determined by technical ease; user experience, particularly the User Interface (UI), plays a pivotal role in influencing user satisfaction and efficiency. This study employs the System Usability Scale (SUS) method to comprehensively analyze the UI of the PMB Online Buddhi Dharma application, providing insights into usability and user satisfaction. Drawing from previous studies utilizing SUS in similar contexts, the research aims to contribute to the development and enhancement of the application's UI. This research evaluates too the effectiveness of Buddhi Dharma University's PMB Online in meeting the digital registration needs of prospective students, emphasizing ease of use and user acceptance. Through the SUS method, the study assesses user satisfaction and ease of use, obtaining an average SUS score of 78 from 30 respondents. This score categorizes Buddhi Dharma University Online PMB as "good," indicating a commendable level of acceptance from users, predominantly prospective students. The research concludes with implications for the application's further improvement and development, emphasizing the importance of user-friendly interfaces in digital admission processes.
Design of Diabetes Prediction Application Using K-Nearest Neighbor Algorithm
Authors: Gunawan Alvin , Fenriana Indah
Published: February 2024

The development of diabetes continues to increase accompanied by an increase in unhealthy lifestyles with a high number of cases, making diabetes need to be continuously researched and developed to obtain useful information in terms of research related to diabetes. This study aims to predict diabetes using the K-Nearest Neighbor Algorithm and make a simulation of checking the disease and test the quality of the K-Nearest Neighbor Algorithm for diabetes and make comparisons with the Naïve Bayes algorithm. The K-Nearest Neighbor algorithm is the method used in this study because it has the advantage of being able to train data that is fast, simple, and easy to learn. The way this algorithm works is by calculating the distance between each row of training data and test data based on a predetermined K value. In the process of using the K-Nearest Neighbor, there is a Z-Score normalization stage which is used to adjust the values for each attribute of diabetes symptoms so that they have a range of values that are not too far away. Based on the results of the research and testing of the K-Nearest Neighbor that has been carried out, an accuracy of 97.12% is obtained and the Area Under Curve value is 0.872 which is included in the good classification category and these results have a greater accuracy value compared to previous studies on the same disease, namely Diabetes with the Naïve Bayes algorithm which produces the most optimal accuracy of 87.69%.
Network Attack Detection Using Intrusion Detection System Utilizing Snort Based on Telegram
Authors: Dharma Juan Adi , Rino
Published: February 2024

The constantly evolving of information technology landscape has made information security something of paramount importance, yet the development of information technology is not met with a corresponding advancement in its security systems. As a result, in the current era, there is a multitude of cybercrimes in the realm of the internet. Therefore, this research aims to create a computer network attack detector using the Linux operating system by leveraging the Telegram-based Snort application and employing the Intrusion Detection System (IDS) method through an IDS-based application, namely Snort. Additionally, this study incorporates features for blocking IP addresses and changing the Linux server password through the Telegram application for initial response when an attack is detected, accomplished by sending specific commands within the Telegram application. Furthermore, this paper also introduce a feature for categorizing the risk of computer network attacks into three categories: Low, Medium, and High within the Telegram application. The results of this research demonstrate that Snort can detect predefined rules and send alerts to the Telegram application for every attack occurring within the Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Successful IP address blocking is achieved through Telegram integration with the Iptables application, and changing the Linux server password is also accomplished through Telegram by integrating the bash shell programming language found in the Terminal of the Linux operating system. Finally, the risk of attacks can be viewed within the Telegram application.
The societal context of professional practice: Examining the impact of politics and economics on journalistic role performance across 37 countries
Authors: Mellado Claudia , Hallin Daniel C. , Blanchett Nicole , Márquez-Ramírez Mireya , Jackson Daniel , Stępińska Agnieszka , Skjerdal Terje , Himma Marju , McIntyre Karen , Hagen Lutz M. , Amiel Pauline , Abuali Yasser , Fahmy Nagwa , Boudana Sandrine , Chen Yi-Ning Katherine , Davidov Sergey , De Maio Mariana , Frías Vázquez Maximiliano , Garcés Miguel , Humanes María Luisa , Herczeg Petra , Lee Misook , Lin Christi I-Hsuan , Melki Jad , Mick Jacques , Mincigrucci Roberto , Ninković Slavnić Danka , Nolan David , Olivera Dasniel , Olmedo Samantha , Pizarro Marcela , Quinn Fergal , Szabó Gabriella , Van Leuven Sarah , Viveros Aguilar Diana , Wyss Vinzenz
Published: February 2024

The impact of socio-political variables on journalism is an ongoing concern of comparative research on media systems and professional cultures. However, they have rarely been studied systematically across diverse cases, particularly outside Western democracies, and existing studies that compare western and non-western contexts have mainly focused on journalistic role conceptions rather than actual journalistic practice. Using journalistic role performance as a theoretical and methodological framework, this paper overcomes these shortcomings through a content analysis of 148,474 news stories from 365 print, online, TV, and radio outlets in 37 countries. We consider two fundamental system-level variables—liberal democracy and market orientation—testing a series of hypotheses concerning their influence on the interventionist, watchdog, loyal-facilitator, service, infotainment, and civic roles in the news globally. Findings confirm the widely asserted hypothesis that liberal democracy is associated with the performance of public-service oriented roles. Claims that market orientation reinforces critical and civic-oriented journalism show more mixed results and give some support to the argument that there are forms of “market authoritarianism” associated with loyalist journalism. The findings also show that the interventionist and infotainment roles are not significantly associated with the standard measures of political and economic structure, suggesting the need for more research on their varying forms across societies and the kinds of system-level factors that might explain them.
Understanding Intercultural Competence in Moroccan EFL Education: Perspectives and Practices
Authors: Youfi Qamar , Brigui Hind
Published: February 2024

In an era of increasingly diverse educational landscapes, understanding how EFL teachers perceive intercultural competence is crucial for fostering inclusive and effective language learning environments. This mixed-methods study unveils the varied range of perspectives among Moroccan EFL educators affiliated with different Moroccan educational institutions. The sample ensured gender balance and exhibited a range of teaching experiences, spanning from 3 to 15 years. Additionally, the participants covered various teaching levels, contributing to the study's demographic diversity. The quantitative findings reveal strong agreement on its importance (Mean Score: 4.42) and active integration into teaching practices (Mean Score: 4.58), with a positive impact on student achievement (Mean Score: 4.62). Notably, the slight variability in training perceptions (Variance: 0.075) underscores the need for tailored support. Complementing these, qualitative insights delve into individual experiences and challenges, emphasizing the importance of personalized training. This article seeks to contribute to a better understanding of intercultural competence in Moroccan EFL education, providing valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers aiming to enhance language learning experiences in diverse cultural contexts. In the wake of overwhelming agreement regarding the pivotal role of intercultural competence, this study champions the call for targeted professional development opportunities. Therefore, by tailoring interventions to address specific needs related to training and resources, we envision a future where educators feel not only empowered but also well-equipped to adeptly traverse the complexities of diverse cultural terrains, fostering a shared commitment to excellence in education.
ENG Students’ Attitude towards Peer Review
Authors: Al Muzahmi Ms. Salwa , Bataineh Adnan , Douzandeh Ebrahim
Published: February 2024

This paper discusses the action research carried out in the ENG 207 course at the American University of Sharjah. The action research was conducted to find out the students’ attitudes toward using external, non-corrected samples in review training sessions and computer-mediated peer review to enhance their experience as reviewers. The findings revealed positive attitudes from the students regarding the training session and computer-mediated peer review; however, some suggestions were provided for improvements.
Spiritual Resilience: Analisis Faktor Yang Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan Mental Ibu Rumah Tangga di Cirebon
Authors:   Jurusan Sosiologi, Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Politik, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati, Jawa Barat, Fauziah Meli , Octavia Vera ,   Jurusan Sosiologi, Fakultas Ilmu Sosial dan Politik, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati, Jawa Barat
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui tingkat spiritual para ibu rumah tangga dan memverifikasi faktor-faktor yang berkontribusi terhadap ketahanan spiritual di Kabupaten Cirebon. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini yakni mix method, kombinasi antara metode kualitatif dan kuantitatif. Subjek penelitiannya yaitu para ibu rumah tangga berjumlah 36 orang dengan kategori miskin di Wilayah Kabupaten Cirebon. Data kualitatif diperoleh melalui in-dept interview, sedangkan data kuantitatif diperoleh dari penyebaran angket yang disusun dengan mengacu pada Spiritual Transcendence Scale dari Piedmont. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa secara rata-rata tingkat spiritualitas para ibu rumah tangga tersebut sebesar 4,52 yang berada pada kategori tingkat spiritualitas yang tinggi. Hasil analisis faktor ketahanan spiritualitas menunjukkan bahwa yakin pada kematian sebanyak 94,4%, perasaan tenang dan bahagia setelah melakukan ritual ibadah sebanyak 86,1 %, keyakinan akan kehadiran Tuhan sebanyak 77,8%, yakin bahwa Tuhan selalu ada untuk menolong hambaNya sebanyak 77,8%, sisanya faktor lain dapat meningkatkan kesejahteraan mental para Ibu rumah tangga. Tingkat ketahanan spiritual yang tinggi terbukti mampu menjadikan mental seorang ibu rumah tangga sejahtera sehingga ketahanan keluarga terjaga. Temuan penelitian ini dapat menambah pengetahuan bagi masyarakat dan khusunya para penyedia layanan sosial untuk melakukan pendekatan dari aspek spiritual bagi kesehatan mental seseorang.
Invisible Infrastructure: Reinforcing Postwar Gender Inequality in Tokyo’s Nakagin Capsule Tower
Authors: Whaley Kelsea
Published: February 2024

1970s Japan saw major changes in the way society lived and worked. A changing family structure, one led by the patriarchal “salaryman,” created new demands for housing. The Nakagin Capsule Tower, completed by architect Kisho Kurokawa in 1972, formerly located in the business district of Shimbashi, Tokyo, Japan, was Kurokawa’s utopian model for Japan’s salarymen. This presentation investigates how the Nakagin Capsule Tower inscribed gendered institutional thought in its construction, restricting women to the home and maintaining male power in the public sphere. Moreover, I explore the relationship between the construction of masculinity and urban space in postwar Japan and discuss the ways in which a housewife is unable to fulfill societal expectations within the Nakagin Capsule Tower. While Kurokawa believed the Nakagin Capsule Tower was a utopian architecture that would improve society, it maintained the salaryman/housewife relationship that prevented Japan from socially evolving to include women in their workforce and reinforced the city as a place only for men in service to the economy. This assessment investigates how the built environment has the power to detract from women’s opportunities outside of the home and the ways architecture met the social demands of men in postwar Japan.
Prevención de las enfermedades ocupacionales en el área odontológica del distrito Chambo-Riobamba, periodo 2019
Authors: Escobar Zabala Oscar Daniel , Moreno Rueda Marco Vinicio , Vásconez Samaniego Carmen de Rocío , Mora Sánchez Sonia del Pilar
Published: February 2024

Introducción. La actividad laboral está determinada por alteraciones condicionadas por el estrés, agotamiento o por las posiciones adoptadas a diario en este contexto. Objetivo. Determinar las enfermedades ocupacionales más frecuentes que se presentan en los odontólogos del Distrito Chambo-Riobamba, 2019. Metodología. La investigación de campo, descriptiva, observacional y de corte transversal aplicó una encuesta a 53 profesionales del área odontológica; los datos resultantes fueron procesados y analizados mediante el programa estadístico Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Resultados. Las enfermedades ocupacionales de mayor frecuencia correspondieron a la clasificación de riesgo psicosocial con el 64 %, como la irritabilidad emocional, los riesgos ergonómicos (62 %), el síndrome del túnel carpiano y los riesgos químicos (58 %), y la hipersensibilidad al látex. Estos datos se relacionan con la organización, tiempo y pausas de trabajo, el uso excesivo y repetitivo de instrumentos vibratorios, posición forzada de la mano, y el manejo de materiales químicos y biológicos. Conclusión. Las enfermedades ocupacionales más frecuentes en profesionales de odontología del Distrito Chambo-Riobamba fueron: irritabilidad emocional, síndrome del túnel carpiano e hipersensibilidad al látex del guante. Área de estudio general: Salud. Área de estudio específica: Salud ocupacional.Tipo de estudio: Artículo original.
Síndrome de Fournier: revisión bibliográfica a propósito de un caso clínico
Authors: Moreno Rueda Marco Vinicio , Guerrero Ganán Moisés Bernabé , Escobar Zabala Oscar Daniel , Yungán Zambrano Silva Isabel
Published: February 2024

Introducción. - El Síndrome de Fournier es una infección aguda del periné, infrecuente, de alta mortalidad que cursa con fascitis necrotizante sinérgica de las regiones perirrectal, perineal y genital; provocando trombosis de los vasos subcutáneos y culminando con necrosis de la piel suprayacente. El tratamiento consiste en estabilizar hemodinámicamente al paciente, antibiótico de amplio espectro y cirugía de urgencia realizando resección de tejidos necróticos, drenaje de secreción purulenta, derivación fecal por colostomía y reconstrucción de la zona afectada. Objetivo. - Buscar nuevas alternativas para el tratamiento clínico quirúrgico de estos casos. Metodología. - Basados en un caso clínico se han revisado 39 bibliografías clásicas y la más actualizadas sobre el tema. Resultados. - El tratamiento oportuno busca reducir la toxicidad a nivel sistémico, controlando el avance de la necrosis hacia las diferentes capas de tejido mediante el desbridamiento, la colostomía de derivación, la antibioticoterapia adecuada y la terapia hiperbárica. Conclusiones. - El tratamiento como se ha revisado debe ser multidisciplinario, en el caso revisado los pasos realizados fueron adecuados, de ahí su buena evolución.
Estratégias de prevenção e controle da hipertensão em idosos na UBS - Panorama XXI: Um relato de experiência
Authors: Guimarães Ademara Pedroso , Dias Camila Araújo , Nascimento Camila Ataíde de Lima , Silva Kamila Luana Santos , Normandes Lívia , Cruz Marcella Pimenta Pereira , Franco Santino Carvalho
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia dos tratamentos e estratégias de prevenção da hipertensão arterial em idosos no ambiente da UBS-Panorama XXI. Relato de experiência: A hipertensão arterial possui grande relevância na saúde pública, especialmente em idosos. As abordagens de prevenção primária no controle da hipertensão incluem controle de peso corporal, dieta saudável, redução do consumo de sal, prática regular de atividade física, controle de fatores psicossociais e eliminação do uso do tabaco. Durante o estágio houve grande demanda de pacientes com queixas hipertensivas, os quais se mostravam pouco conhecedores do assunto. Conseguiu-se observar a necessidade de traçar estratégias específicas de prevenção e controle da HAS para reduzir o risco de complicações cardiovasculares. Realizar sessões de educação em saúde para idosos e fornecer informações sobre hábitos de vida saudáveis, incluindo dieta equilibrada, exercícios físicos regulares, redução do consumo de sal, controle do peso, eliminação do tabagismo, promover o monitoramento e registro da pressão arterial em casa e manter consultas médicas regulares. Portanto, percebe-se que as estratégias medicamentosas e não medicamentosas (tais como a atividade física e a alimentação balanceada) para prevenção da HAS em idosos é essencial para a qualidade de vida deles.
Automated Process Based on Functionalized Preform and Net-shape High Performance Resin Transfer Molding for High Volume Structural Applications
Authors: Hamlyn Alexandre , Job Sophie
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a new process is highlighted for mass production of composite structural parts for the automotive and high-volume aerospace markets. This process follows different steps: (1) Simulation of the process to optimize the design of the 3D part and its corresponding 2D blank, (2) High speed Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) of 2D tailored dry preform blanks made from direct fiber, online fiber spreading and binder application, (3) Preform functionalization to improve its formability and permeability, but also to make handling and trimming easier, (4) Forming of the 2D functionalized preform to 3D shape and net shape trimming, (5) Net shape preform impregnation with High-Pressure-Resin-Transfer-Molding (HP-RTM), thanks to excellent through thickness (z direction) permeability, and preform stability. To assess the process performance and resulting parts, 3D parts and 2D coupons were manufactured using the new developed preforms and Non-Crimp-Fabric (NCF), having in both cases the same fiber and matrix. The performances were evaluated all along the process steps and the results show improvements in several key process parameters, equivalent mechanical performances and increase surface quality, hence resulting in less effort for surface preparation.
Simultaneous Removal of Gas-Phase Pollutants CO and NO Using Ni-Fe Bimetallic Oxides Catalyst
Authors: Kim Woon-Gi , Jung Jae-Il , Lee Myeung-Jin , Jeong Bora , Ye Bora , Lee Heesoo , Kim Hong-Dae
Published: February 2024

Many studies have been conducted on methods to remove air pollutants. Among them, a representative commercial technology for reducing nitrogen oxides (NOX) is selective catalytic reduction (SCR) using NH3 as a reductant. However, the NH3-SCR technology has problems, such as the need for additional NH3 gas (Active-SCR), the fact that unreacted NH3 (slipped-NH3) in the reaction process can be re-oxidized to NOX, and the facility system cost according to the added NH3 gas. In order to solve these problems, CO gas that is naturally generated in industrial processes can be used, and NO and CO can be removed at the same time using passive-SCR technology that does not require a separate injection of a reductant. In this study, transition metals Ni and Fe were used as catalytic materials to replace expensive precious metals. The results confirmed that both NOX and CO removal efficiencies were about 90% or more in the catalyst with combined Ni-Fe, compared to the single catalyst. The addition of Ni to the Fe catalyst increased the catalytic reducing power, which also affected the increase in acid sites. Therefore, it is expected that this catalyst can simultaneously remove NO and CO without the use of NH3 gas. These results could be explained through XRD, FT-IR, TEM, BET, H2-TPR and CO-TPD analyses, and compared to single catalysts, it was confirmed that the catalyst had higher low-temperature desorption ability for CO as a reductant and reducing capability.
Harnessing visible light: enhancing TiO2 photocatalysis with photosensitizers for sustainable and efficient environmental solutions
Authors: Chauke Nyiko M. , Mohlala Reagan L. , Ngqoloda Siphelo , Raphulu Mpfunzeni C.
Published: February 2024

The emerging field of using titanium dioxide (TiO2)-based photosensitizers for enhancing photocatalytic removal of thiazine dyes such as methylene blue (MB) from water has long been recognized for its exceptional photocatalytic properties, making it an attractive material for environmental remediation and energy conversion. However, its wide bandgap limits its responsiveness to visible light. As such, the utilization of TiO2-based photosensitizers for the removal of thiazine dyes, presents a promising avenue for diverse applications. In addressing the dual challenges of environmental pollution and harnessing sustainable energy sources, this review focuses on the removal of thiazine dyes from water and their subsequent application as photosensitizers for TiO2 materials. Thiazine dyes, ubiquitous in industrial effluents, pose environmental concerns due to their persistence and potential toxicity. Conversely, this innovative approach involves employing TiO2 materials as photocatalysts, utilizing the unique properties of thiazine dyes to enhance light absorption. Studies have shown that beyond the conventional role of thiazine dyes as colorants, they can serve as effective photosensitizers when coupled with TiO2. This tandem not only facilitates the elimination of thiazine dyes, such as MB, from water but also augments the improvement of the photocatalytic performance of TiO2 materials. The synergy between dye sensitizers and TiO2 enhances the overall efficiency of processes like dye degradation and water splitting. Dye sensitizers, acting as light energy absorbers, can efficiently transfer this energy to TiO2, thereby promoting electron transfer and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS, in turn, initiate chemical reactions, rendering dye sensitizers valuable in applications such as wastewater treatment, solar energy conversion, and environmental remediation. As such, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential drawbacks associated with thiazine dyes, including toxicity and non-biodegradability. Consequently, careful consideration must be given to thiazine dye application and disposal. Therefore, this review manuscript delves into the comprehensive exploration of TiO2-based photosensitizers, shedding light on their efficacy in various photocatalytic processes for thiazine dye removal.
A green and environmentally benign route to synthesizing Z-scheme Bi2S3-TCN photocatalyst for efficient hydrogen production
Authors: Yuan Lang , Yin Yihang , Xiang Peng , Shao Yugui , Gao Jie , Liu Jianan , Meng Huiyuan , Li Li , Xie Ying , Xiao Xudong , Jiang Baojiang
Published: February 2024

Designing and developing photocatalysts with excellent performance in order to achieve efficient hydrogen production is an important strategy for addressing future energy and environmental challenges. Traditional single-phase photocatalytic materials either have a large bandgap and low visible light response or experience rapid recombination of the photogenerated carriers with low quantum efficiency, seriously hindering their photocatalytic applications. To solve these issues, an important solution is to construct well-matched heterojunctions with highly efficient charge separation capabilities. To this end, an in situ sulfurization reaction was adopted after the deposition of Bi3+ supramolecular complex on a layered supramolecular precursor of tubular carbon nitride (TCN). X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed that the as-prepared sample has a good crystalline structure without any other impurities, while high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) revealed that the heterojunction possesses a 2D structure with a layer of nano-array on its surface. Combined Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) revealed the interfacial interactions. Owing to the formation of the Z-scheme heterojunction, the visible light adsorption and the separation efficiency of the photo-generated carriers are both obviously enhanced, leaving the high energy electrons and high oxidative holes to participate in the photocatalytic reactions. As a result, the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of Bi2S3-TCN achieves 65.2 μmol g-1·h-1. This proposed green and environmentally benign route can also be applied to construct other sulfides with 2D TCN, providing some important information for the design and optimization of novel carbon-nitride-based semiconductors.
Resistome, mobilome, and virulome explored in clinical isolates derived from acne patients in Egypt: unveiling unique traits of an emerging coagulase-negative Staphylococcus pathogen
Authors: Amer Mai A. , Darwish Manal M. , Soliman Noha S. , Amin Heba M.
Published: February 2024

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are a group of gram-positive staphylococcal species that naturally inhabit the healthy human skin and mucosa. The clinical impact of CoNS-associated infections has recently been regarded as a challenge for diagnosis and therapeutic options. CoNS-associated infections are primarily caused by bacterial resistance to antibiotics and biofilm formation. As antibiotics are still the most used treatment, this problem will likely persist in the future. The present study aimed to investigate the resistance and virulence of CoNS recovered from various acne lesions and explore their genetic basis. Skin swab samples were collected from participants with acne and healthy skin. All samples underwent conventional culture for the isolation of CoNS, MALDI-TOF confirmation, antibiotic susceptibility, and biofilm formation testing. A total of 85 CoNS isolates were recovered from the samples and preliminarily identified as Staphylococcus epidermidis. Isolates from the acne group (n = 60) showed the highest rates of resistance to penicillin (73%), cefoxitin (63%), clindamycin (53.3%), and erythromycin (48%), followed by levofloxacin (36.7%) and gentamycin (31.7%). The lowest rates of resistance were observed against tetracycline (28.3%), doxycycline (11.7%), and minocycline (8.3%). CoNS isolated from mild, moderate acne and healthy isolates did not show strong biofilm formation, whereas the isolates from the severe cases of the acne group showed strong biofilm formation (76.6%). Four extensively drug-resistant and strong biofilm-forming staphylococcal isolates recovered from patients with severe acne were selected for whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and their genomes were investigated using bioinformatics tools. Three of the sequenced genomes were identified as S. epidermidis; however, isolate 29AM was identified as Staphylococcus warneri, which is a newly emerging pathogen that is not commonly associated with acne and was not detected by MALDI-TOF. All the sequenced strains were multidrug-resistant and carried multiple resistance genes, including blaZ, mecA, tet(K), erm(C), lnuA, vgaA, dfrC, fusB, fosBx1, norA, and vanT, which were found to be located on plasmids and chromosomes. Virulence features were detected in all genomes in the presence of genes involved in adherence and biofilm formation (icaA, icaB, icaC, sdrG, sdrH, atl, ebh, and ebp). Only the S. warneri isolate 29AM contained immune evasion genes (capB, capC, acpXL, and manA), an anti-phagocytosis gene (cdsA), and other unique features. As a result of their potential pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance, CoNS must be monitored as an emerging pathogen associated with acne infections. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to isolate, identify, and correlate S. warneri with severe acne infections among Egyptian patients using WGS and bioinformatic analysis.
Challenges and opportunities of Facebook during bereavement: experiences from Taung in South Africa
Authors: Aiseng Kealeboga
Published: February 2024

Bereavement is something that we experience in one way or another. It involves many steps from one culture to the other. Many scholars have documented the role of social media tools in bereavement processes. In this study, I look at the challenges and opportunities offered by Facebook during bereavement, especially in a community that is still traditional and has yet to fully comprehend the importance of social media, particularly in matters considered sacred. The study used interviews with residents from Taung to collect data. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the collected data from the interviews. The study findings indicate some challenges associated with bereavement on Facebook: emotional shock, lack of sensitivity, misinformation, and cultural dilution. There are also opportunities: fast news sharing, ongoing emotional support, and sharing of memories. The study argues that the findings should expand our understanding and knowledge of bereavement in some African cultures and use social media tools to complement and not destroy African beliefs and practices.
Case Report: COVID-19 exacerbates acute lower limb ischemia in patients with popliteal artery entrapment syndrome
Authors: Bo Li , Xiaojiong Du
Published: February 2024

Non-traumatic lower limb ischemic diseases are extremely rare among young people. Clinically, they are mainly seen in the form of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES). In addition, with the prevalence of COVID-19 infection, more and more studies report that COVID-19 infection may lead to arteriovenous thrombosis, which could cause lower limb ischemia. This case reported that a 31-year-old male amateur football player who developed intermittent claudication after recovering from COVID-19. After 2 months of consultation, he was ultimately diagnosed with PAES. As is well known, PAES is mostly caused by long-term compression of the popliteal artery by abnormal anatomical structures, resulting in thickening of the vascular outer membrane and progression of the disease until intimal damage and thrombosis, leading to lower limb ischemia. During the progression of the disease, there may be multiple factors that accelerate its progression. Therefore, combined with the patient's clinical history and related studies on confirmed thrombosis caused by COVID-19, we can infer that COVID-19 could accelerate the occurrence of PAES.
The potential effect of natural antioxidants on endothelial dysfunction associated with arterial hypertension
Authors: Caminiti Rosamaria , Carresi Cristina , Mollace Rocco , Macrì Roberta , Scarano Federica , Oppedisano Francesca , Maiuolo Jessica , Serra Maria , Ruga Stefano , Nucera Saverio , Tavernese Annamaria , Gliozzi Micaela , Musolino Vincenzo , Palma Ernesto , Muscoli Carolina , Rubattu Speranza , Volterrani Maurizio , Federici Massimo , Volpe Massimo , Mollace Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Arterial hypertension represents a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide, and the identification of effective solutions for treating the early stages of elevated blood pressure (BP) is still a relevant issue for cardiovascular risk prevention. The pathophysiological basis for the occurrence of elevated BP and the onset of arterial hypertension have been widely studied in recent years. In addition, consistent progress in the development of novel, powerful, antihypertensive drugs and their appropriate applications in controlling BP have increased our potential for successfully managing disease states characterized by abnormal blood pressure. However, the mechanisms responsible for the disruption of endogenous mechanisms contributing to the maintenance of BP within a normal range are yet to be fully clarified. Recently, evidence has shown that several natural antioxidants containing active ingredients originating from natural plant extracts, used alone or in combination, may represent a valid solution for counteracting the development of arterial hypertension. In particular, there is evidence to show that natural antioxidants may enhance the viability of endothelial cells undergoing oxidative damage, an effect that could play a crucial role in the pathophysiological events accompanying the early stages of arterial hypertension. The present review aims to reassess the role of oxidative stress on endothelial dysfunction in the onset and progression of arterial hypertension and that of natural antioxidants in covering several unmet needs in the treatment of such diseases.
Mechanical performance and failure mechanism of U-steel support structure under blast loading
Authors: Zhao Jin-Shuai , Yang Jia-Hao , Li Peng-Xiang , Zhu Xin-Hao , Chen Chong-Feng , Zhang Jian-Cong
Published: February 2024

The U-steel support structures of underground caverns are prone to instability and failure under blast loads. The purpose of the underground cavern reinforcement is to mobilise the self-supporting capacity of the surrounding rock to resist the blast. To better understand the mechanical performance and failure mechanism of the U-steel support, the fracture process and vibration behaviour of the support structure under blast loading are investigated by the microseismic monitoring experiment. The dynamic responses of the cavern support structures under blast loading are investigated, and the potentially hazardous sections of the U-steel support structure are revealed by the theoretical analysis. The microseismic monitoring results show that the blast induced microseismic events are concentrated in the arch shoulder of the small chainage, correspondingly the U-steel structures in this region have been partially extruded and deformed. The failure mechanism of the supporting structure is presented. In order to effectively inhibit the internal fracture evolution or macroscopic failure of the rock mass, the synergetic reinforcement scheme of the structures is proposed. The results of the research can be used as a reference for the design and control method of the U-steel support in similar projects.
Effect of tea intake on genetic predisposition to gout and uric acid: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yu Yunfeng , Yang Xinyu , Hu Gang , Tong Keke , Yin Yuman , Yu Rong
Published: February 2024

Objective

The effect of tea on gout and uric acid is still controversial. This study aims to analyze the effect of tea intake on genetic predisposition to gout, idiopathic gout, gout due to impairment of renal function as well as uric acid by Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

Forty independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with tea intake were selected from UK Biobank. SNPs for uric acid were obtained from BioBank Japan, SNPs for gout were obtained from UK Biobank, and SNPs for gout due to impairment of renal function and idiopathic gout were derived from FinnGen. The causal relationship of exposure-outcome was tested using inverse variance weighted, MR-Egger and weighted median. MR-Egger intercept was employed to assess horizontal pleiotropy, Cochran’s Q test was used to assess heterogeneity, and leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was utilized to analyze the stability of the results.

Results

The results of MR analysis showed that tea intake was negatively associated with gout due to impairment of renal function (OR 0.997, 95% CI 0.994 to 0.999, P = 0.017), whereas there was no causal association with gout, idiopathic gout, and uric acid (P > 0.05), for which sensitivity analysis suggested that these results were robust.

Conclusions

There was a genetic predisposition effect of increased tea intake on the reduced risk of gout due to impairment of renal function, whereas there was no such effect on gout, idiopathic gout, and uric acid. Tea intake may become an important option in the dietary treatment of gout due to impairment of renal function.
Case report: A novel compound heterozygous variant in the TNXB gene causes single kidney agenesis and vesicoureteral reflux
Authors: Liang Lei , Wu Haotian , Meng Haixia , Fu Lin , Zhao Jianrong
Published: February 2024

Primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is the prevailing congenital anomaly of the kidneys and urinary tract, posing a significant risk for pyelonephritis scarring and chronic renal insufficiency in pediatric patients. Nevertheless, the precise genetic etiology of VUR remains enigmatic. In this current investigation, we conducted whole-exome sequencing on a child exhibiting single kidney, devoid of any familial VUR background, along with both biological parents. Two missense variants (NM_019105.8: exon11: c.4111G>A and NM_019105.8: exon2: c.31A>T) in the TNXB gene were identified through whole-exome sequencing of the child. These variants were found to be inherited from the child’s parents, with each parent carrying one of the variants. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to assess the impact of these variants on the tenascin XB proteins encoded by them, revealing varying degrees of impairment. Based on our findings, it is suggested that the TNXB compound heterozygous variant, consisting of c.4111G>A and c.31A>T, may be the underlying cause of right renal agenesis and left hydronephrosis in afflicted child. This discovery broadens the genetic range of the TNXB gene and establishes a genetic foundation for disease-specific preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) in prospective pregnancies involving the parents of this afflicted child.
Dakota skipper distribution model for North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota aids conservation planning under changing climate scenarios
Authors: Barnes Kevin W. , Toso Luke B. , Niemuth Neal D.
Published: February 2024

Species distribution models are useful conservation planning tools for at-risk species, especially if they are linked to planning efforts, conservation delivery, and a changing environment. The Dakota skipper (Hesperia dacotae) is an endemic butterfly of mixed and tallgrass prairie of the northern Great Plains that is listed as federally threatened in the United States and Canada. We modeled broad-scale habitat suitability for the Dakota skipper by relating occurrence observations collected via non-probabilistic population surveys and a stratified sample of pseudo-absences to environmental predictors using a machine learning approach (i.e. Random Forest classification model). Predictors were summarized at two local scales and one landscape scale to reflect a potential spatial hierarchy of settlement responses. We used recursive feature elimination to select the top 25 covariates from a suite of predictor variables related to climate, topography, vegetation cover, biomass, surface reflectance, disturbance history, and soil characteristics. The top model included six bioclimatic, one soil, and 18 local- and landscape-scale vegetation variables and indicated an association with undisturbed grasslands with higher perennial grass and forb cover and biomass. The model performed well, with kappa and AUC estimates of 0.92 and 0.99, respectively, for 20% of data withheld for validation. To understand how climate change might affect Dakota skipper distribution, we applied the model using future 30-year bioclimatic predictions. Predicted suitable habitat declined and the climate envelope associated with Dakota skipper occurrence shifted north into Canada. While it is unknown to what degree the bioclimatic relationships in the model are biologically meaningful or are simply correlative with our non-probabilistic sample of occurrences, our results present an urgency to improve data collection for Dakota skipper populations and better understand climatic relationships, as climate change could have profound effects on populations and conservation planning. Regardless of climate or model uncertainty, our results demonstrate the importance of maintaining sufficient quantities and quality of grass on the landscape to support populations of Dakota skipper.