bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis Variasi Bahasa pada Pelayanan Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Kotabaru
Authors: Mubarak Husni
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study was (1) to describe the variations in language contained in the service at the Kotabaru Regency General Hospital, (2) to describe the factors of language variation found in the service of the Kotabaru Regency Regional General Hospital. The method used in this study is a qualitative method that is descriptive by describing objectively and the actual speech that occurs. While this type of research is a qualitative descriptive study with analyzing data through field observations with the steps of collecting, analyzing and presenting data with observation techniques, recording techniques and note taking techniques. Based on the results of research conducted, it was found that variations in the language used by doctors, nurses, and patients were three language variations namely 1. language variation in terms of facilities, namely variations or variations in spoken language; 2. variations in language based on usage terms, namely variations in language functions or registers, and 3. variations in language based on the degree of officiality are variations in business languages â€‹â€‹or variations in business, variations in casual languages â€‹â€‹(casual). And the factors of language variation in the services of the Kotabaru District General Hospital are situational factors, gender factors, occupational or professional factors, environmental factors and educational factors.

 

Keywords: Language Variation, Regional General Hospital Services
MELACAK AKAR SEJARAH SISTEM DAN LEMBAGAAN PENDIDIKAN ISLAM PADA MASA RASULULLAH SAW (PERIODE MEKKAH DAN MADINAH
Authors: DP Usman
Published: March 2022

In a historical perspective, Islamic education as a sub system of the education system in general way only known after the sending of the Prophet Muhammad SAW has a messenger of Allah SWT. The retise unders prophet Muhammad SAW covers the system that axixts in the life on the universe, Islamic education refers to Islamic values. Therefore, the Islamic education system has a fundamental difference with the education system built by education both  in the East and West . During the leadership of the prophet Muhammad SAW, Islamic education was built on a monolothic basis, which was sourced from revelation, namely the Qur’an and Hadith. Therefore, Islamic education is not known has a dichotomous term, the separation between religious education and general education.

 

Keywords: Islamic Education System and Institution, Rasulullah SAW.
From Mainstream to Social Media: The Kidnapped Yemeni Babies Affair in Israel and the Fight for Memory and Justice
Authors: Madmoni-Gerber Shoshana
Published: March 2022

This essay analyses the racial constructs and discursive webs that justified the separation of babies from their families, with reference to the Kidnapped Babies Affair in Israel. The discourse of hygiene and the view of Yemenite Jews as ‘Others,’ as articulated by David Ben-Gurion and other Ashkenazi Zionist leaders of Israel, are especially highlighted. The article contrasts mainstream-media framing practices with the dominance of new digital narratives. While the emergence of social media grants agency to previously silenced victims, I argue that the attitude of the Israeli state remains a major force in the ongoing Israeli official rejection of this story. Despite a breakthrough in the public perception of this narrative, the road to full transparency and justice remains elusive.
Dezenformasyona Karşı Kur’ân’ın Bireysel ve Toplumsal Bilinç Uyarısı
Authors: Kaya Süleyman
Published: March 2022

Bu bildiride, bilgi çarpıtma olarak adlandırılan dezenformasyonun, iletişimin sınır tanımaz bir noktaya geldiği günümüzde devletler, çeşitli örgütsel yapılar tarafından ulusal ve uluslararası alanda etkin bir şekilde kullanıldığına dikkat çekilmiştir. Toplumun fay hatlarını hedef alarak gerginliği artırmayı amaçlayan bu kasıtlı saptırılmış bilginin ardında genelde kişisel, örgütsel, toplumsal siyasi ve ticari amaçların bulunduğuna vurgu yapılmıştır. Bu durumun, devletleri ve uluslararası organizasyonları çeşitli açılardan önlem almaya yönlendirdiği ifade edilmiştir. Hukuksal önlemler yanında toplumların dayanıklılık gücünü artırıcı önlemlerin öne çıktığına işaret edilmiştir. Şu anki yapısı itibarıyla daha fazla etkilendiği ifade edilen Müslüman dünyanın da dezenformasyona yönelik önlem alması gerektiği üzerinde durulmuştur. Bilinç düzeyi yüksek toplumlarda dezenformasyonun etkisinin azaldığı uyarısı yapılarak, Müslüman dünyanın, hukuksal önlemler yanında özellikle bireysel ve toplumsal dayanıklılığı güçlendirmeye ihtiyacının olduğu ifade edilmiştir. Bu noktada, inancımızın temel kaynağı Kur’ân’ın, söz konusu bilincin gerekliliğine dair verilerinden faydalanılma ihtiyacına değinilmiş, ilgili verilerden hareketle konuya yaklaşımın güncellenmesi gereği üzerinde durulmuştur. Bu husus, Kur’ân’da yer alan üç örnek üzerinden bildiri sınırlılığı içerisinde açıklanmaya çalışılmıştır.
Evaluation of Euglena gracilis 815 as a New Candidate for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Chen Zixi , Chen Yehua , Zhang Hua , Qin Huan , He Jiayi , Zheng Zezhou , Zhao Liqing , Lei Anping , Wang Jiangxin
Published: March 2022

Euglena comprises over 200 species, of which Euglena gracilis is a model organism with a relatively high fatty acid content, making it an excellent potential source of biodiesel. This study isolated and characterized a new strain named E. gracilis 815. E. gracilis 815 cells were cultivated under light and dark conditions, with either ethanol or glucose as an external carbon source and an autotrophic medium as control. To achieve maximum active substances within a short period i.e., 6 days, the effects of the light condition and carbon source on the accumulation of bioactive ingredients of E. gracilis 815 were explored, especially fatty acids. In comparison with the industrially used E. gracilis Z strain, E. gracilis 815 exhibited high adaptability to different carbon sources and light conditions, with a comparable biomass and lipid yield. The content and composition of fatty acids of E. gracilis 815 were further determined to assess its potential for biodiesel use. Results suggested that E. gracilis 815 has biodiesel potential under glucose addition in dark culture conditions and could be a promising source for producing unsaturated fatty acids. Therefore, E. gracilis 815 is a candidate for short-chain jet fuel, with prospects for a wide variety of applications.
Electrochemical Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease Biomarker, β-Secretase Enzyme (BACE1), With One-Step Synthesized Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Dey Jhilik , Roberts Akanksha , Mahari Subhasis , Gandhi Sonu , Tripathi Prem Prakash
Published: March 2022

β-Secretase1 (BACE1) catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the generation of amyloid-β peptides, that is, the principal component involved in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent research studies show correlation between blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of BACE1 with the pathophysiology of AD. In this study, we report one-step synthesized reduced graphene oxide (rGO), activated via carbodiimide chemistry, conjugated with BACE1 antibody (Ab), and immobilized on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) electrodes for rapid detection of BACE1 antigen (Ag) for AD diagnosis. The synthesis and fabrication steps were characterized using different types of spectroscopic, X-ray analytic, microscopic, and voltametric techniques. Various parameters including nanomaterial/Ab concentration, response time, pH, temperature, and rate of scan were standardized for maximum current output using the modified electrode. Final validation was performed via detection of BACE1 Ag ranging from 1 fM to 1 µM, with a detection limit of 0.64 fM in buffer samples and 1 fM in spiked serum samples, as well as negligible cross-reactivity with neurofilament Ag in buffer, spiked serum, and spiked artificial CSF. The proposed immunosensor gave a quick result in 30 s, and good repeatability and storage stability for a month, making it a promising candidate for sensitive, specific, and early diagnosis of AD. Thus, the fabricated electrochemical biosensor for BACE-1 detection improves detection performance compared to existing sensors as well as reduces detection time and cost, signifying its potential in early diagnosis of AD in clinical samples.
Review of Automated Vulnerability Analysis of Smart Contracts on Ethereum
Authors: Rameder Heidelinde , di Angelo Monika , Salzer Gernot
Published: March 2022

Programs on public blockchains often handle valuable assets, making them attractive targets for attack. At the same time, it is challenging to design correct blockchain applications. Checking code for potential vulnerabilities is a viable option to increase trust. Therefore, numerous methods and tools have been proposed with the intention to support developers and analysts in detecting code vulnerabilities. Moreover, publications keep emerging with different focus, scope, and quality, making it difficult to keep up with the field and to identify relevant trends. Thus, regular reviews are essential to keep pace with the varied developments in a structured manner. Regarding blockchain programs, Ethereum is the platform most widely used and best documented. Moreover, applications based on Ethereum are entrusted with billions of USD. Like on similar blockchains, they are subject to numerous attacks and losses due to vulnerabilities that exist at all levels of the ecosystem. Countermeasures are in great demand. In this work, we perform a systematic literature review (SLR) to assess the state of the art regarding automated vulnerability analysis of smart contracts on Ethereum with a focus on classifications of vulnerabilities, detection methods, security analysis tools, and benchmarks for the assessment of tools. Our initial search of the major on-line libraries yields more than 1,300 publications. For the review, we apply a clear strategy and protocol to assure consequent, comprehensive, and reproducible documentation and results. After collecting the initial results, cleaning up references, removing duplicates and applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we retain 303 publications that include 214 primary studies, 70 surveys and 19 SLRs. For quality appraisal, we assess their intrinsic quality (derived from the reputation of the publication venue) as well as their contextual quality (determined by rating predefined criteria). For about 200 publications with at least a medium score, we extract the vulnerabilities, methods, and tools addressed, among other data. In a second step, we synthesize and structure the data into a classification of both the smart contract weaknesses and the analysis methods. Furthermore, we give an overview of tools and benchmarks used to evaluate tools. Finally, we provide a detailed discussion.
SLC1A5 Prefers to Play as an Accomplice Rather Than an Opponent in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xu Fangshi , Wang Hai , Pei Honghong , Zhang Zhengliang , Liu Liangliang , Tang Long , Wang Shuang , Ren Bin-Cheng
Published: March 2022

Background: SLC1A5, a ferroptosis regulator gene, plays a dual role in cancer regulation. However, the roles of SLC1A5 in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) remain elusive.

Methods: SLC1A5’s expression and somatic mutation information were determined by TCGA, GEO, Oncomine, and cBioPortal databases. Its prognostic value was assessed in TCGA cohort and was validated in three independent cohorts. The effects of SLC1A5 on the tumor immune microenvironment were analyzed by the CIBERSORT algorithm, ssGSEA method, and TISIDB and TIMER databases. The “oncoPredict” R package, TIDE algorithm, ImmuCellAI online tool, and GSE35141 and GSE59357 datasets were used to ascertain its therapeutic correlations. GSEA and Western blot were applied to reveal the effects of SLC1A5 on the mTORC1 signaling pathway and ferroptosis process. The biofunctions of SLC1A5 were assessed by MTT, wound-healing, Transwell, and xenograft assays.

Results: SLC1A5 was significantly upregulated in the PAAD samples but was not commonly accompanied with somatic mutation (2.3%). Overexpression of SLC1A5 led to a poor prognosis and was identified as an independent prognostic factor. Moreover, high SLC1A5 expression suppressed the antitumor immune process by changing the infiltrating levels of immune cells. As for therapeutic correlations, SLC1A5 was related to the efficacy of dasatinib, sunitinib, sorafenib, and imatinib but may not predict that of radiotherapy, chemotherapeutic drugs, and immune checkpoints inhibitors (ICIs). Notably, the overexpression of SLC1A5 could activate the mTORC1 signaling pathway and may increase the cellular sensitivity to ferroptosis. Finally, the overexpression of SLC1A5 markedly promoted proliferation, migration, and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. At the in vivo level, SLC1A5 deletion inhibited tumor growth in a mice xenograft model.

Conclusions: SLC1A5 prefers to play as an accomplice rather than an opponent in PAAD. Our findings provide novel insights into PAAD treatment.
Tanshinone Ameliorates Glucocorticoid-Induced Bone Loss via Activation of AKT1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Yanjun , Liu Lin , Qu Zechao , Wang Dong , Huang Wangli , Kong Lingbo , Yan Liang
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Osteoporosis, a common disorder especially prevalent in the postmenopausal women and the elderly, is becoming a worldwide public health problem. Osteoporosis can cause severe joint pain, fragility fractures, and other symptoms, which can seriously impair the daily lives of affected patients. Currently, no gold-standard drug is available that can completely cure osteoporosis. Tanshinone is a traditional Chinese medicine, which can exhibit multiple biological activities. It might also display a protective effect on osteoporosis. However, the molecular mechanism through which tanshinone can improve osteoporosis remain unclear. The objective of our study is to explore the underlying mechanism behind the protective actions of tanshinone.

Methods: The common KEGG pathways of tanshinone-targeted genes and osteoporosis were analyzed by using bioinformatics analysis. The bioinformatics analysis results were further validated both by in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results: 21 common KEGG pathways were identified between osteoporosis and tanshinone-targeted genes. It was further found that tanshinone could induce expression of AKT1, promote the proliferation of MSCs, and ultimately suppress their apoptosis.

Conclusion: Taken together, our findings indicate that tanshinone can alleviate osteoporosis, its effect was potentially mediated through modulating AKT1 expression. Thus, tanshinone could serve as a promising treatment option for osteoporosis.
Solvent Effect on Product Distribution in the Aerobic Autoxidation of 2-Ethylhexanal: Critical Role of Polarity
Authors: Wang Zheng , Qin Yitong , Huang Huijiang , Li Guobing , Xu Yan , Jin Peng , Peng Bo , Zhao Yujun
Published: March 2022

In the aerobic oxidation of aldehydes to acids, how the solvent affect the reaction remains unclear. Herein, the solvent effect in the oxidation of 2-ethylhexanal (2-ETH) to 2-ethylhexanoic acid (2-ETA) was systematically investigated. The vastly different product distributions were observed which could be ascribed to the dominant intermolecular forces. Though strong intermolecular forces in protic solvents limit the oxidation, the optimal 2-ETA yield (96%) was obtained in ipropanol via gradually evaporating the solvent to remove the interactions. Theoretical calculations further revealed that the hydrogen bonds between reactant and protic solvent increase the C-H bond energy (-CHO in 2-ETH). Meanwhile, the hydrogen bonds may improve 2-ETA selectivity by promoting H transfer in the oxidation rearrangement step. Our work discloses the critical role of polarity in determining the reactivity and selectivity of 2-ETH oxidation, and could guide the rational design of more desirable reaction processes with solvent effect.
Hepatitis C Virus Infection Cycle-Specific MicroRNA Profiling Reveals Stage-Specific miR-4423-3p Targets RIG-I to Facilitate Infection
Authors: Qian Xijing , Wu Bingan , Xu Chen , Qi Zhongtian
Published: March 2022

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the main causes of chronic liver diseases, the disorders of which involve multiple pathological processes and elements including host factors such as non-coding small RNAs. Although several genes have been reported to be correlated with HCV infection, the potential regulatory network has not been deciphered clearly. By small RNA sequencing, we clarified the expression profile of microRNAs (miRNAs) in HCV-infected Huh7 and Huh7.5.1 cells and identified 6 dysregulated miRNAs with the same expression trend and 32 dysregulated miRNAs with different expression trends during different stages of HCV life cycle. By looking into each infection stage, we found that 6 miRNAs were entry stage specific, 4 miRNAs were replication stage specific, and 1 miRNA was related to the transmission stage. Moreover, due to the fact that Huh7.5.1 cells have a retinoic acid-inducible gene 1 (RIG-I) mutation which causes reduced production of interferons (IFNs), we here focused on the miRNAs of different trends to decipher the RIG-I/IFN specific miRNAs. Among them, miR-4423-3p showed a significant promotive effect on HCV infection by suppressing RIG-I/IFN pathway through direct binding to RIG-I mRNA. Together, the results displayed novel insights into the miRNA regulatory networks in HCV infection and progression, thus providing a prosperous perspective into the establishment of novel therapeutic and diagnostic targets of the disease.
Developing a Sustainable Cardiovascular Disease Research Strategy in Tanzania Through Training: Leveraging From the East African Centre of Excellence in Cardiovascular Sciences Project
Authors: Chillo Pilly , Mashili Fredirick , Kwesigabo Gideon , Ruggajo Paschal , Kamuhabwa Appolinary
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) contribute the largest mortality burden globally, with most of the deaths (80% of all deaths) occurring in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Tanzania. Despite the increasing burden, to date, CVD research output is still limited in Tanzania, as it is for many sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries. This trend hinders the establishment of locally informed CVD management and policy changes. Here, we aim to review the existing gaps while highlighting the available opportunities for a sustainable CVD research strategy in Tanzania.

Methods

A rapid review of available literature on CVD research in SSA was conducted, with emphasis on the contribution of Tanzania in the world literature of CVD. Through available literature, we identify strategic CVD research priorities in Tanzania and highlight challenges and opportunities for sustainable CVD research output.

Findings

Shortage of skilled researchers, inadequate research infrastructure, limited funding, and lack of organized research strategies at different levels (regional, country, and institutional) are among the existing key bottlenecks contributing to the low output of CVD research in Tanzania. There is generally strong global, regional and local political will to address the CVD epidemic. The establishment of the East African Centre of Excellence in Cardiovascular Sciences (EACoECVS) offers a unique opportunity for setting strategies and coordinating CVD research and training for Tanzania and the East African region.

Conclusion

There is a light of hope for long-term sustainable CVD research output from Tanzania, taking advantage of the ongoing activities and plans for the evolving EACoECVS. The Tanzanian experience can be taken as a lesson for other SSA countries.
Preclinical Study of Biphasic Asymmetric Pulsed Field Ablation
Authors: Bi Shengyu , Jia Fenglin , Lv Chang , He Qiang , Xu Xinyu , Xue Zhixiao , Su Siying
Published: March 2022

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a novel method of pulmonary venous isolation in atrial fibrillation ablation and is featured by tissue-selective ablation. Isolation is achieved via the application of high-voltage microsecond pulses that create irreversible perforations in cell membranes (i.e., electroporation). We proposed a new biphasic asymmetric pulse mode and verified the lesion persistence and safety of this mode for pulmonary vein ostia ablation in preclinical studies. We found that biphasic asymmetric pulses can effectively reduce muscle contractions and drop ablation threshold. In the electroanatomic mapping, the ablation site showed a continuous low potential area, and the atrium was not captured after 30 days of pacing. Pathological staining showed that cardiomyocytes in the ablation area were replaced by fibroblasts and there was no damage outside the ablation zone. Our results show that pulmonary venous isolation using the biphasic asymmetric discharge mode is safe, durable, effective, and causes no damage to other tissues.
Data-Driven Framework for Understanding and Predicting Air Quality in Urban Areas
Authors: Babu Saheer Lakshmi , Bhasy Ajay , Maktabdar Mahdi , Zarrin Javad
Published: March 2022

Monitoring, predicting, and controlling the air quality in urban areas is one of the effective solutions for tackling the climate change problem. Leveraging the availability of big data in different domains like pollutant concentration, urban traffic, aerial imagery of terrains and vegetation, and weather conditions can aid in understanding the interactions between these factors and building a reliable air quality prediction model. This research proposes a novel cost-effective and efficient air quality modeling framework including all these factors employing state-of-the-art artificial intelligence techniques. The framework also includes a novel deep learning-based vegetation detection system using aerial images. The pilot study conducted in the UK city of Cambridge using the proposed framework investigates various predictive models ranging from statistical to machine learning and deep recurrent neural network models. This framework opens up possibilities of broadening air quality modeling and prediction to other domains like vegetation or green space planning or green traffic routing for sustainable urban cities. The research is mainly focused on extracting strong pieces of evidence which could be useful in proposing better policies around climate change.
Social Interactivity in Live Video Experiences Reduces Loneliness
Authors: Kaveladze Benjamin T. , Morris Robert R. , Dimitrova-Gammeltoft Rosa Victoria , Goldenberg Amit , Gross James J. , Antin Judd , Sandgren Melissa , Thomas-Hunt Melissa C.
Published: March 2022

Background

Loneliness, especially when chronic, can substantially reduce one's quality of life. However, positive social experiences might help to break cycles of loneliness by promoting more prosocial cognitions and behaviors. Internet-mediated live video communication platforms (eg Zoom and Twitch) may offer an engaging and accessible medium to deliver such social experiences to people at scale. Despite these platforms' widespread use, there is a lack of research into how their socially interactive elements affect users' feelings of loneliness and connection.

Objective

We aimed to experimentally evaluate whether socially interactivity in live video experience improves loneliness-related outcomes.

Materials and Methods

We recruited participants from an online survey recruitment platform and assigned half to participate in a socially interactive live video experience with 6–12 strangers and the other half to a non-interactive control experience that was designed to be identical in every way but not socially interactive. Participants completed several baseline self-report measures of psychosocial wellbeing, participated in the hour-long video experience (an entertaining astronomy lesson), and then completed some baseline measures again. Four weeks later, we followed up with participants to evaluate their change in trait loneliness since baseline. We Pre-registered our hypotheses and analysis plan and provide our data, analysis code, and study materials online.

Results

Two hundred and forty-nine participants completed the initial study and met inclusion criteria, 199 of whom also completed the 4-week follow-up. Consistent with our predictions, we found that directly after the more socially interactive experience, participants' feelings of connectedness increased more (p < 0.001), positive affect increased more (p = 0.002), feelings of loneliness decreased more (p < 0.001), social threat decreased more (p = 0.006), and negative affect decreased more (p = 0.003) than they did after the less interactive experience. However, change in trait loneliness between baseline and 4 weeks later did not differ between conditions (p = 0.953).

Conclusions

Including socially interactive components in live video experiences can improve loneliness-related psychosocial outcomes for a short time. Future work should explore leveraging these benefits toward longer-term prosociality. Future work can also identify if the effects we observed generalize across different populations and kinds of online experiences.
Genetic Types, Distribution Patterns and Enrichment Mechanisms of Helium in China’s Petroliferous Basins
Authors: Qin Shengfei , Xu Dan , Li Jiyuan , Zhou Zheng
Published: March 2022

Helium is a strategic resource with many scientific, technical and industrial applications. However, despite its importance and scarcity, there is a lack of understanding on its origin, migration and accumulation processes. In view of this, the distribution patterns and enrichment mechanisms of helium are studied based on systematic analysis of the genetic types of helium in petroliferous basins in China. The helium in the petroliferous basins in China is mainly radiogenic, which involves the decay of U and Th. As expected, we found that, in one gas field, the helium content in natural gas increases with the age of reservoir rock, and in the same layer of the same structure within one reservoir, the helium content in natural gas in high altitude part of the structure is higher than that in the lower part. Enrichment of helium is closely related to old deep groundwater. The helium produced by radioactive decay in old strata is dissolved in water and transported and enriched through water migration. Due to large uplift of the structure during the Himalayan period, the helium dissolved in water was exsolved and accumulated with natural gas in the trap above the water. And thus, the helium-rich natural gas reservoirs formed. So, the helium contents in natural gas fields increase gradually along the flow direction of groundwater. The area with large range of uplift often shows higher helium content. This study not only provides a basis for the study of helium enrichment research, but also provides a new idea for industrial helium resource exploration.
Submarine Landslide Susceptibility Mapping in Recently Deglaciated Terrain, Glacier Bay, Alaska
Authors: Avdievitch Nikita N. , Coe Jeffrey A.
Published: March 2022

Submarine mass wasting events have damaged underwater structures and propagated waves that have inundated towns and affected human populations in nearby coastal areas. Susceptibility to submarine landslides can be pronounced in degrading cryospheric environments, where existing glaciers can provide high volumes of sediment, while cycles of glaciation and ice-loss can damage and destabilize slopes. Despite their contribution to potential tsunami hazard, submarine landslides can be difficult to study because of limited access and data collection in underwater environments. Here we present a method to quantify and map the submarine landslide susceptibility of sediment-covered slopes in Glacier Bay, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, using multibeam-sonar bathymetric digital elevation models (DEMs) and historical maps of glacial extents over the last ∼250 years. After mapping an inventory of >7,000 landslide scarps in submarine sediments, we filtered the inventory by size to account for limitations in DEM resolution and spatial scales relevant to tsunami hazards. We then assessed landslide concentration, accounting for the age of the initial exposure of submarine slopes by deglaciation. We found a positive correlation between landslide concentration and deglaciation age, which we interpreted as a mean landslide accumulation rate over the period of record. Local deviations from this rate indicated differences in susceptibility. Additionally, we accounted for some of the effect of material and morphometric properties by estimating the submarine bedrock-sediment distribution using a morphometric model and assessing the relationship between slope angle and landslide incidence. Finally, we supplemented our susceptibility assessment with a geomorphic component based on the propensity of active submarine fans and deltas to produce landslides. Thus, our map of submarine landslide susceptibility incorporates three components: age-adjusted landslide concentration, slope angle, and geomorphology. We find that areas of mapped high susceptibility correlate broadly with areas of high sediment input and availability, locations of fans and deltas, and steep sediment-covered glacially carved fjords and troughs. Areas of high submarine landslide susceptibility in Glacier Bay moderately correspond with locations of known high-hazard subaerial slopes, but more research on submarine and subaerial landslides in degrading cryospheric environments would be beneficial to better understand landslide and tsunami hazards.
Spatio-Temporal Patterns of Carbon Storage Derived Using the InVEST Model in Heilongjiang Province, Northeast China
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Huang Chensheng , Jin Huijun , Han Yilun , Kang Siqi , Liu Jing , Cai Huiying , Hu Tongxin , Yang Guang , Yu Hongzhou , Sun Long
Published: March 2022

Carbon storage is an important component of ecosystem services. Under climate warming and human activities, land use/land cover (LULC) have been undergoing tremendous change, leading to spatio-temporal variations in carbon storage. Based on seven series of LULC data and combined with carbon module of Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model, spatial-temporal changes in LULC types and carbon storage were analyzed and estimated for Heilongjiang Province, Northeast China. Results show varied carbon storage among different types of LULC. Forest and cropland are the dominant LULC types in Heilongjiang Province, Northeast China, accounting for 46–49% (20.90 × 104–22.12 × 104km2) and 30–37% (13.56 × 104–16.70 × 104km2) of the total area. Areal extents of forest, grassland, and unused land declined from 1980 to 2015, by 1.22, 0.84, and 1.11 × 104km2, respectively; while those of cropland and construction land expanded, by 3.14 and 0.08 × 104km2, respectively. From 1980 to 2015, carbon storage displayed consistent change trends with those of LULC types: carbon storage of forest, grassland, and unused land decreased by 236.22, 116.61 and 21.82 × 106 Mg C, respectively; and those of cropland and construction land increased by 414.65 and 0.99 × 106 Mg C, respectively. The total carbon storage in the study region was 6,863.06 × 106–6,907.64 × 106 Mg C, for which the forest, cropland, and grassland were the major contributor (6,778.75 × 106–6,840.57 × 106 Mg C). Due to the conversion of large extents of forest, grassland, and unused land to cropland, which facilitated the formation of carbon sinks and thus enlarged the carbon storage by 45.36 × 106 Mg C from 1980 to 2015. Frequent forest fires, urban expansion, farmland reclamation, and engineering construction were the important factors of changes in the LULC, accelerating permafrost degradation and leading to obvious changes in the total carbon storage in the Heilongjiang Province, Northeast China. Therefore, the estimation of carbon storage in different LULC types can provide important data support and have important implications for evaluation of ecosystem services and carbon cycle.
Perspectives of Care Experienced Young People Regarding Their Academic Experiences in Further Education
Authors: Howard Kirstie , MacQuarrie Sarah
Published: March 2022

Background

The academic attainment of care experienced young people (CEYP) is consistently reported as below the national average. Studies emphasize associations between low academic attainment and poor life outcomes. Most research relating to CEYP and education, has highlighted the impact of educational barriers and opportunities on their progression and subsequent attainment. Although, this research is almost exclusively concerned with schooling up to aged 16. Few studies have explored the perspectives and experiences of CEYP in further education, especially in a Scottish context.

Aim

This study aimed to centralize the views of CEYP to gain insight into the perceived achievement opportunities and barriers in FE. Secondly, this study aimed to consider CEYP experiences in FE to inform support services for CEYP.

Sample

Ten CEYP, aged 16–24, studying at a further education college in Scotland participated in the study. Seven further education colleges from geographically diverse regions are represented.

Methods

CEYP participated in semi-structured interviews to share their experience of further education.

Findings

Thematic analysis was used to produce the following main themes: Care experience and personal narratives, valuing further education and navigating support systems.

Conclusion

These findings provide unique insight into CEYP experiences of FE. Opportunities for CEYP achievement in FE included stability of education and accommodation, personalized and financial support and supportive relationships. Reported barriers included care-related challenges, additional support needs (ASN), staff knowledge and labeling practices. Priorities for support service development included increased CEYP informed and led services such as peer mentoring, corporate parenting training and peer education. Implications for FE practice and future research are discussed. A summary of key points for consideration are provided in theSupplementary Materialand may be of particular interest to any educational organisation in a corporate parenting role.
A Web Server for GPCR-GPCR Interaction Pair Prediction
Authors: Nemoto Wataru , Yamanishi Yoshihiro , Limviphuvadh Vachiranee , Fujishiro Shunsuke , Shimamura Sakie , Fukushima Aoi , Toh Hiroyuki
Published: March 2022

The GGIP web server (https://protein.b.dendai.ac.jp/GGIP/) provides a web application for GPCR-GPCR interaction pair prediction by a support vector machine. The server accepts two sequences in the FASTA format. It responds with a prediction that the input GPCR sequence pair either interacts or not. GPCRs predicted to interact with the monomers constituting the pair are also shown when query sequences are human GPCRs. The server is simple to use. A pair of amino acid sequences in the FASTA format is pasted into the text area, a PDB ID for a template structure is selected, and then the ‘Execute’ button is clicked. The server quickly responds with a prediction result. The major advantage of this server is that it employs the GGIP software, which is presently the only method for predicting GPCR-interaction pairs. Our web server is freely available with no login requirement. In this article, we introduce some application examples of GGIP for disease-associated mutation analysis.
Integration of Metabolomics and Proteomics in Exploring the Endothelial Dysfunction Mechanism Induced by Serum Exosomes From Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Nephropathy Patients
Authors: Yang Jing , Liu Dongwei , Liu Zhangsuo
Published: March 2022

Background

The prevalence of diabetic microvascular diseases has increased significantly worldwide, the most common of which are diabetic nephropathy (DN) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Microvascular endothelial cells are thought to be major targets of hyperglycemic damage, while the underlying mechanism of diffuse endothelial dysfunction in multiple organs needs to be further investigated.

Aim

The aim of this study is to explore the endothelial dysfunction mechanisms of serum exosomes (SExos) extracted from DR and DN (DRDN) patients.

Methods

In this study, human glomerular endothelial cells (HGECs) were used as the cell model. Metabolomics ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) and proteomics tandem mass tag (TMT)-based liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) together with bioinformatics, the correlation analysis, and the joint pathway analysis were employed to discover the underlying mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction caused by patient’s SExos.

Results

It can be assumed that serum exosomes extracted by DRDN patients might cause endothelial dysfunction mainly by upregulating alpha subunit of the coagulation factor fibrinogen (FIBA) and downregulating 1-methylhistidine (1-MH). Bioinformatics analysis pointed to an important role in reducing excess cysteine and methionine metabolism.

Conclusion

FIBA overexpression and 1-MH loss may be linked to the pathogenicity of diabetic endothelial dysfunction in DR/DN, implying that a cohort study is needed to further investigate the role of FIBA and 1-MH in the development of DN and DR, as well as the related pathways between the two proteins.
The Role of Fat Reducing Agents on Adipocyte Death and Adipose Tissue Inflammation
Authors: Muskat Ahava , Pirtle Megan , Kost Yana , McLellan Beth N. , Shinoda Kosaku
Published: March 2022

Deoxycholic Acid (DCA), which is an FDA-approved compound for the reduction of submental fat, has evolved through an unanticipated and surprising sequence of events. Initially, it was used as a solvent for Phosphatidylcholine (PDC), which was thought to promote lipolysis, but it was later proven to be the bioactive component of the formula and is currently widely used as Kybella. It has also been used off-label to treat other types of fat deposits like lipomas, HIV lipodystrophy, and excess orbital fat. Despite widespread clinical use, there has been no consensus clarifying the mechanisms of DCA and PDC alone or in combination. Furthermore, despite PDC’s removal from the FDA-approved formula, some studies do suggest it plays an important role in fat reduction. To provide some clarity, we conducted a PubMed search and reviewed 41 articles using a comprehensive list of terms in three main categories, using the AND operator: 1) Phosphatidylcholines 2) Deoxycholic Acid, and 3) Lipoma. We isolated articles that studied PDC, DCA, and a PDC/DCA compound using cell biology, molecular and genetic techniques. We divided relevant articles into those that studied these components using histologic techniques and those that utilized specific cell death and lipolysis measurement techniques. Most morphologic studies indicated that PDC/DCA, DCA, and PDC, all induce some type of cell death with accompanying inflammation and fibrosis. Most morphologic studies also suggest that PDC/DCA and DCA alone are non-selective for adipocytes. Biochemical studies describing PDC and DCA alone indicate that DCA acts as a detergent and rapidly induces necrosis while PDC induces TNF-α release, apoptosis, and subsequent enzymatic lipolysis after at least 24 hours. Additional papers have suggested a synergistic effect between the two compounds. Our review integrates the findings of this growing body of literature into a proposed mechanism of fat reduction and provides direction for further studies.
Association Between Abdominal Adipose Tissue Distribution and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Chinese Obese Patients
Authors: Ma Bingwei , Li Yingying , Wang Xingchun , Du Lei , Wang Shilin , Ma Huihui , Zhou Donglei , Usman Taofeek , Lu Liesheng , Qu Shen
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Factors related to the occurrence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in obesity have not been fully clarified. The aim of this study was to identify the association between OSAS and abdominal fat distribution in a cohort of Chinese obese patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study collected demographic data of 122 obese patients who were admitted into the in-patient unit of the Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital from July 2018 to January 2021. OSAS was diagnosed based on the results of overnight polysomnography, and the abdominal fat distribution was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the association between OSAS and the distribution of abdominal fat.

Results

(1) The mean age (SD) of the obese patients included was 32.44 (11.81) years old, and the overall incidence rate of OSAS was 51.06%. Twenty-four (25.53%) patients had mild OSAS, 10 (10.64%) had moderate OSAS, and 14 (14.89%) had severe OSAS. The apnea hypopnea index (AHI) of men was significantly higher than that of women (5.50, interquartile range (IQR) 3.80–30.6 vs. 4.2, IQR 1.4–12 events/h, p = 0.014). Meanwhile, men had a significantly higher visceral fat area when compared with women (180.29 ± 51.64 vs. 143.88 ± 53.42 cm2, p = 0.002). (2) Patients with OSAS had a significantly higher waist circumference, fasting plasma glucose, 2 h postprandial plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and visceral fat area than patients without OSAS (all p < 0.05). (3) AHI was significantly positively associated with BMI, neck circumference, waist circumference, and visceral fat area (r = 0.306, p = 0.003; r = 0.380, p < 0.001; r = 0.328, p = 0.002; r = 0.420, p < 0.001) but not with subcutaneous fat area (p = 0.094). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that abdominal fat area and fasting plasma glucose were independent risk factors for OSAS (odds ratio, 1.016; 95% confidence interval, 1.005–1,026, p = 0.005; odds ratio, 1.618; 95% confidence interval, 1.149–2.278, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

In obese patients, the abdominal visceral adipose deposit but not the subcutaneous fat area was associated with OSAS and was an independent risk factor for OSAS. Therefore, improving the distribution of abdominal fat may contribute to alleviating the severity of OSAS in obesity.
Techno-Economic Evaluation of Biological and Fluidised-Bed Based Methanation Process Chains for Grid-Ready Biomethane Production
Authors: Gantenbein Andreas , Kröcher Oliver , Biollaz Serge M. A. , Schildhauer Tilman J.
Published: March 2022

Three different power-to-methane process chains with grid injection in two scales (1 MWel and 6 MWel) were analysed regarding their investment and operation cost. The process chains were based on biological or catalytic bubbling fluidised bed methanation in combination with proton exchange membrane or solid oxide electrolyser cells. A bottom-up techno-economic analysis showed a cost benefit of around 17–19% lower biomethane production cost for the bubbling fluidised bed technology as less than a third of the reactor volumes is required for catalytic methanation. This cost benefit is only given in combination with PEM electrolysis, as the high-temperature electrolyser stacks currently result in high investment cost. Based on electricity cost of 5 €-ct/kWhel and a plant size of 6 MWel, biomethane production cost of 13.95 €-ct./kWh for catalytic and 17.30 €-ct/kWh for biological methanation could be obtained, both including PEM electrolysis. A significant efficiency increase by integrating the heat of catalytic methanation reaction with the high-temperature electrolysis can be achieved; however investment cost have to decrease below 1000 €/kWel to obtain economically feasible production cost of biomethane. Under current economic and technological circumstances, CO2 methanation using the bubbling fluidised bed technology is the most cost effective.
Characteristic of Steady-State Flow Force on the Cone Valve Based on Orthogonal Test Method
Authors: Liu Xiumei , He Jie , Ma Jichao , Li Beibei , Xiang Shaobin , Zhang Yujia , Liu Qihang , Xie Fangwei
Published: March 2022

The steady-state flow force is the fundamental reason that affects the pressure stability, which will reduce the control performance of a hydraulic valve. A mathematical model of the axial steady-state flow force on the valve core is proposed to master the principle and characteristics of steady-state flow force. For understanding the dynamic changes of the steady-state flow force, a two-dimensional axisymmetric model is built to discuss the value of flow force. Different geometric parameters and operating conditions have different effects on the performance of the valve, and analyzing a variety of parameters is difficult because of the complexity of the test. Therefore, the geometric parameters and operating conditions in the steady-state flow force were optimized by the orthogonal test-optimization method. The main significant factors affecting the performance of steady-state flow force on the cone valve core are determined by extreme difference analysis, which are the opening and pressure differential, respectively. Furthermore, a test ring is built to measure the steady-state flow force. The results show that the greater the pressure differential is, the greater the steady-state flow force is. The steady-state flow force does not increase linearly, but increases first and then decreases with the increase of the opening. The study will lay the foundation to precise axial flow force prediction and reference for design optimization of the valve.
Hybrid Data-Driven Modeling for an AC/DC Power System Considering Renewable Energy Uncertainty
Authors: Zhou Jingsen , Chen Yongtao , Ran Li , Fang Hui , Zhang Youqiang , Zhu Xiaojun , Jaidaa Asem
Published: March 2022

The development of grid-connected renewable energy sources and the widespread use of power electronic devices have exacerbated the uncertain, time-varying, and non-linear characteristics of power systems, making accurate and real-time model design challenging. Modeling for unmodeled dynamics and random characteristics has inherent disadvantages in power system simulation. Conventional converter valve modeling ignores the high-frequency switching condition. This study aims to provide an effective modeling strategy that can accurately characterize the unmodeled dynamics and uncertainty of AC/DC hybrid interconnection systems with significant grid-connected renewable energy capacity. The model-data hybrid-driven modeling concept based on digital twin (DT) enhances the technique’s effectiveness. It models the proportional-integral control link of a voltage source converter (VSC). The time convolution neural network (TCN) algorithm can describe accurately the high-frequency switching state of the switching device and the operation state of renewable energy units that changes dynamically with weather conditions and other variables. The simulation experiments on a real-world power grid demonstrate the proposed modeling method’s efficiency and the hybrid-driven model’s performance.