bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excellent Madrasah Education: How do Learning Motivation and Al-Qur’an Literacy Synergize Tahfidzul Qur’an Acceleration?
Authors: Bulan Sri , Bakar M. Yunus Abu , Fuad Ah. Zakki
Published: May 2023

To achieve the memorization target of 3 chapters of the Qur’an as a minimum requirement for graduation, MAN Insan Cendekia Pekalongan conducted a tahfidz quarantine program during Ramadan. This program focused on Al-Qur'an literacy activities as an effort to create student learning motivation in memorizing the Qur'an through the acceleration class model. This study aimed to determine the acceleration class model applied in the tahfidz quarantine and explore learning motivation and Al-Qur'an literacy. The research used a naturalistic qualitative descriptive method with a field case study approach which was conducted at MAN Insan Cendekia Pekalongan during the tahfidz quarantine. Data were obtained from interviews with the deputy head of the dormitory division, companion teachers, supervisor teachers, and students, as well as observation and documentation. From the total of 189 students, 14 student representatives from classes X and XI in each room were interviewed. Data analysis used Miles and Huberman's three steps including reduction, data display, and verification. The results showed that the memorization achievement of a minimum of 3 chapters was exceeded in the first and second weeks and there was an acceleration of memorization in the third and fourth weeks after the implementation of the acceleration class with the highest memorization achievement of 13 chapters for the male class and 19 chapters for the female class. The acceleration of memorization shows a significant increase due to the learning motivation and Al-Qur'an literacy which synergizes with the acceleration of tahfidzul Qur'an after the implementation of the acceleration classes.
Building a Culture of Peace in Education: An Exploration of Al-Ghazali's Thoughts on Inner and Social Peace
Authors: Irawan Andi Wahyu , Solehuddin M. , Ilfiandra Ilfiandra , Yulindrasari Hani
Published: May 2023

A culture of peace in education is a concept that emphasizes the importance of creating a harmonious learning environment and respecting differences to achieve an effective, conducive, and harmonious learning environment for students. Research on the culture of peace in education on the mental and social aspects of creating peace often receives less attention. The thoughts of figures such as Imam Al-Ghazali offer a holistic and comprehensive view of peace. This study aimed to explore Imam Al-Ghazali's thoughts on inner and social peace and how to build a culture of peace in education. A qualitative approach was chosen to understand Imam Al-Ghazali's thoughts on inner and social peace and how these concepts can be applied in an educational context. The methods used in this research were literature study and content analysis. The three main works of Imam Al-Ghazali studied were Ihya 'Ulum al-Din, Al-Munqidh min al-Dalal, and Bidayat al-Hidayah. The results showed three principles in building a culture of peace: inner peace, cleansing of the soul, and noble character. This study has an implication to pay attention to mental and social aspects of creating a harmonious learning environment by strengthening the values of tolerance, empathy, justice, cooperation, and peaceful conflict resolution in the curriculum and learning. In addition, the character building of students who can communicate, think critically, and solve problems peacefully should be prioritized in education.
Quality properties of indonesian traditional terasi: a review
Authors: Rahman Askur , Astuti Retno , Sucipto Sucipto
Published: May 2023

Terasi constitutes an Indonesian traditional fermented product made from shrimp or fish (or a mixture of both) at a high salt concentration with or without incorporating approved additional ingredients. With a distinct flavor and solid texture (paste), terasi is widely consumed as a seasoning ingredient, but it is still produced using a traditional method that lacks quality inspection. Quality properties of terasi, i.e., physical, chemical, and microbiological aspects, are essential since they highly affect consumer acceptance. This article reviews the quality profiles of terasi, covering such aspects as food safety, health, sensory, shelf life, and its use. The safety of biological, chemical, and physical threats can be used to evaluate the quality of terasi from a safety perspective. In addition, the nutritional content, functional qualities, and satiety characteristics of terasi indicate its quality from a health standpoint. Based on taste, texture, aroma, and color, the sensory qualities of terasi are evaluated to determine its quality. From the time the product is developed until consumers utilize it without any modifications, the quality of terasi based on the shelf life aspect is observed. The quality of terasi in terms of usability is determined by items that are user-friendly or, in other words, practical
Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) Analysis Of Creative Video Competition Event On The Brand Image Of "Bogor Sport And Tourism" As Branding Bogor Regency
Authors: Ananda Siregar Mariana Rista , Satriani Imani
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this research is to find out how the Bogor Regency branding campaign (city branding) "Bogor Sport and Tourism" can shape the brand image of Bogor Regency as a sports and tourism destination through the activity of "Creative Video and Singing Competition" about tourist destinations in Bogor Regency. This activity is one of the efforts to build its destination brand in terms of communication with its city branding stakeholders (city branding). The stimulus-response theory was used in this title-related research. This is a quantitative study that uses PLS-SEM data analysis. This study's population consisted of 67 participants who had gone through the selection stage to determine the winner. The study employed quota sampling. The findings revealed that the government must continue improving event marketing to improve brand image. According to the research findings, brand image improves when event marketing performance is successful. Event marketing can be strengthened by strengthening its forming constructs: individual, innovation, integrity, intensity, interaction, and involvement. At the same time, brand image can be seen in infrastructure, landscape, structure, and behavioural aspects.
The Influence Of Work Motivation And Work Environment On The Performance Of Educational Personnel With Religiosity As Moderation At The Kiai Haji Achmad Siddiq State Islamic University, Jember Regency
Authors: Winanda Rizna Ramadhani , Anwar Muhadjir , Rini Hesty Prima
Published: May 2023

This study aims to assess the impact of work environment motivation on the performance of teaching staff at UIN KHAS Jember. A higher education institution is considered a knowledge carrier and learning institution with high hopes and goals, a scientifically developed Forum to provide ethical and skills guidance to students and academics. This study uses the causality method with a causal relationship between the positions of the research variables and the influence of the independent variables on the dependent variable. Based on the results obtained, work motivation can positively impact performance. This indicates that the reason increased by the employees' leadership will affect increasing motivation. The results of the path coefficient indicate that the relationship between fellow employees has a significant role in carrying out social relations with many people. It will create a sense of security and make you feel acknowledged by others. The work environment positively influences the performance of UIN Khas Jember's academic staff, which indicates that a good work environment can produce high-performance levels, thereby indirectly causing employees to work at optimal levels.
Pembuatan Basis Data Spasial Desa Perkotaan (Urban Village) Melalui Partispasi Masyarakat
Authors: Harimudin Jamal , Alfirman Alfirman , Fitriani Fitriani
Published: May 2023

Increasing the knowledge and capacity of village officials in understanding and managing spatial data bases in the urban village is an important part of the one map program. The purpose of the service is (1) knowing the administrative boundaries of Melai Village, Murhum District; (2) have an understanding of participatory-based spatial databases for tourism objects in Melai Urban Village, Murhum District. The method used is participatory based. The results of this trial are that participants are able to determine the boundaries of the urban village and the participants show the Melai Urban Village tourism object and then produce the results from the joint consultation.
Increasing Students’ Motivation and Ability to Write Descriptive Text Using Social Media and Photo Comics in PBL Method
Authors: Agustin Hetty Dwi
Published: May 2023

Students always have difficulty in writing composition using English. This encourages teachers to conduct research. The purpose of study is to improve students' motivation and ability in writing descriptive text, using social media and photo comics. The social media used in this research are Youtube and Whatsapp which support the learning process. Meanwhile, the photo comic used in this study is expected to be of interest to students, so that it can encourage students to be motivated in learning English, including being eager to write Descriptive Text. Because students interested in photo comics and make them easy to write. Students are helped to make some sentences by images of photo comic. The method used in this research is Project Based Learning (PBL). The subjects are 7th grade students of SMPN 8 Surakarta in second semester 2021/2022. Students had to achieve the Base Competence of English Curriculum 7th grade 4.7.2 that is Compiling oral and written descriptive texts, very short and simple, related to people, animals, and objects that they like by paying attention to social functions, text structure, and linguistic elements, correctly and in context. The results showed that social media and photo comics are very effective in increasing students' motivation and ability to write descriptive text. They are very interesting and effective sources of ideas for students in writing the text. Finally, students increased their motivation and ability in writing Descriptive Text, and also can reach the Base Competence of English curriculum of 7th grade (KD 4.7.2.).
Revealing EFL Students’ Perception towards the Implementation of Kahoot! in Learning Narrative Text at the Secondary School Level
Authors: Cahyaningtyas Melina , Chakim Nur
Published: May 2023

Information and communication technology development has been massive in the last decades. This development allows teachers to utilize internet based applications such as Kahoot! as a learning tool. This present study was conducted to reveal the perception of secondary level students about the use of Kahoot! in learning narrative text. The participants of this study are 66 students of a junior high school in Sidoarjo. The study uses the quantitative method to collect and analyze the data. This study shows that students see Kahoot! in a positive way. They find Kahoot! as a learning tool that may help them improve their activities in class with an engaging environment, resulting in higher academic achievement.
Lecturers’ Perception of the Use of Social Media for English Language Teaching
Authors: Larasati Tiffani Widya , Lolita Yuri
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to see how English lecturers’ perceptions of the use of social media for English Language teaching. This study is limited to 4 aspects (Activities, Motivation, Enhancing students’ skills, and effectiveness). This research was conducted at the English Department at a university in Surabaya using social media for teaching English by lecturers. This study using a case study design and semi-structured interview, by organizing, interpreting, and representing the data. A total of 8 lecturers have participated to be interviewed to know about their perception on the use of social media for English Language Teaching. The results showed that the social media most primarily used by the English lecturers are WhatsApp and Email. The result of the interviews showed about the four aspects that had been determined. They are; 1). Activities when using social media in teaching English; discussion, communication, sharing subjects’ materials, collecting an assignment, giving assignments. 2). The use of Social media can increase students and lecturers’ motivation; improving learning motivation, active, creative, increasing self-confidence, and interesting. 3). The use of social media can enhance students’ English skills; enhancing speaking skill, writing skill, pronunciation, vocabulary. 4). The effectiveness of social media use in teaching English; easy to access, easy to understand, easy to use, easy to be practiced.
Utilizing Attapulgite as Anti-Spill Liners of Crude Oil
Authors: AL-Bidry Mayssaa Ali , Hamied Ramzy. S.
Published: May 2023

The efficiency of attapulgite liners as anti-seepage for crude oil is examined. Consideration is given to the potential use of raw attapulgite and mixture attapulgite with prairie hay and coconut husk as liners to prevent crude oil seepage. Attapulgite clay used in this study was brought from Injana formation /Western Desert of Iraq. Two types of Crude oil brought from Iraqi oil fields were used in experiments; heavy crude oil from East-Baghdad oil field and light crude oil from Nassiriya oil field. Initially the basic properties of attapulgite and crude oils were determined. The attapulgite clay was subjected to mineralogical, chemical and scanning electron microscope analyses. Raw Attapulgite 150µm, 75µm, and 53µm were tested as anti-seepage liners for heavy and light crude oil. Experiments showed that raw attapulgite liners 53µm and 75µm are good in terms of retention and prevention of seepage so they can be used as the main layer to impede the flow of heavy crude oil. Raw attapulgite150µm could not be used as a liner to impede the flow of crude oil. This type of liner is totally inefficient for heavy and light crude oil. Adding prairie hay to attapulgite 150µm gives a good barrier medium that retains heavy crude oil and prevents it from seepage as long as possible. Raw attapulgite liners failed to prevent light crude oil seepage whereas the partial substitution of attapulgite by prairie hay or coconut enhanced the performance of the liner. Moreover, the addition of prairie hay with coconut to attapulgite enhanced the performance of the liner to a greater extent compared to raw attapulgite liners and mixture liner attapulgite with prairie hay.
Ictogenesis Proceeds Through Discrete Phases in Hippocampal CA1 Seizures
Authors: Mueller John-Sebastian , Tescarollo Fabio , Huynh Trong , Brenner Daniel , Valdivia Daniel , Olagbegi Kanyin , Sangappa Sahana , Chen Spencer , Sun Hai
Published: May 2023

Epilepsy is characterized by spontaneous non-provoked seizures, yet the mechanisms that trigger a seizure and allow its evolution remain underexplored. To dissect out phases implicated in the development of a seizure, we evoked hypersynchronous activity with optogenetic stimulation. Focal optogenetic activation of putative excitatory neurons in the mouse hippocampal CA1 reliably evoked convulsive seizures in awake mice. A novel time-vs-time “pulsogram” plot characterized the evolution of the EEG pulse response from a light evoked response to induced seizure activity. Our results depict ictogenesis as a stepwiseprocess comprised of three distinctive phases demarcated by two transition points. The induction phase undergoes the first transition to reverberant phase activity, followed by the second transition into the paroxysmal phase or a seizure. Non-seizure responses are confined to either induction or reverberant phases, suggesting ictogenesis can be stopped at these stages, thus offering novel therapeutic perspectives to abort a seizure before it develops.
Global dynamics and bifurcations of Filippov SIR epidemic model with general nonlinear transmission and discontinuous control
Authors: Li Wenjie , Li Guodong , Cao Jinde , Huang Lihong
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the global dynamic behavior and bifurcations of a classical nonlinear transmission SIR epidemic model with discontinuous threshold strategy. Different from previous results, we not only consider the general nonlinear transmission, but also adopt the discontinuity control. First, the positivity and boundedness of the model are given. Second, by employing Lyapunov LaSalle approach and using Green Theorem, we perform the globally stable the three types of equilibria of the system. We analytically show the orbit can tend to the disease-free equilibrium point, the endemic equilibrium point or the sliding equilibrium point in discontinuous surfaces of the system. In addition, we also analyze the sliding bifurcations of the model when consider the special transmission. Finally, some numerical simulations are worked out to confirm the results obtained in this paper.
Hybrid numerical method for solving singularly perturbed partial delay reaction-diffusion problem with integral boundary condition
Authors: Wondimu Getu Mekonnen , Duressa Gemechis File , Woldaregay Mesfin Mekuria , Dinka Tekle Gemechu
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study the numerical method for solving singularly perturbed partial delay differential equations with integral boundary conditions. Due to a small perturbation parameter acted on the higher derivative, solution of the problem exhibit a boundary layers at left and right end plane of the domain. An interior layer is also formed because of the presence of large delay on the space variable. A hybrid numerical method is proposed in the spatial direction, and an implicit Euler method is used in temporal direction. The proposed hybrid scheme constitute of cubic spline method in the boundary layer region and a classical finite difference method in the outer layer region. The integral boundary condition is treated using Simpson’s 1/3 rule. The uniform stability and convergence analysis for the proposed scheme is studied. The developed method is uniformly convergent with second-order in space and first-order in time. Two numerical test examples are considered to validate a theoretical result. The numerical results are in agreement with the theoretical estimations.
MSC Classification: 65M06 , 65M12 , 65M22 , 65M25
Impact of specialist ataxia centres on health service resource utilisation and costs across Europe: cross-sectional survey
Authors: Morris Steve , Vallortigara Julie , Greenfield Julie , Hunt Barry , Hoffman Deborah , Reinhard Carola , Graessner Holm , Federico Antonio , Quoidbach Vinciane , Giunti Paola
Published: May 2023

Background Little is known about the costs of treating ataxia and whether treatment at a specialist ataxia centre affects the cost of care. The aim of this study was to investigate whether patients who attended specialist ataxia centres in three European countries reported differences in their health care use and costs compared with patients who did not attend a specialist ataxia centre. We compared mean resource use and health service costs per patient affected by ataxia in the United Kingdom, Italy and Germany over a 12-month period. Data were obtained from a survey distributed to people with ataxia in the three countries. We compared mean resource use for each contact type and costs, stratifying patients by whether they were currently attending a specialist ataxia centre or had never attended one.Results Responses were received from 181 patients from the United Kingdom, 96 from Italy and 43 from Germany. Differences in the numbers of contacts for most types of health service use between the specialist ataxia centre and non-specialist ataxia centre groups were non-significant. In the United Kingdom the mean total cost per patient was €2209 for non-specialist ataxia centre patients and €1813 for specialist ataxia centre patients (P = 0.59). In Italy these figures were €2126 and €1971, respectively (P = 0.84). In Germany they were €2431 and €4087, respectively (P = 0.19). Inpatient stays made the largest contribution to total costs.Conclusions Within each country, resource use and costs were broadly similar for specialist ataxia centre and non-specialist ataxia centre groups. There were differences between countries in terms of health care contacts and costs.
Multifunctional regulation of NADPH oxidase in growth, microsclerotia formation and virulence in Metarhizium rileyi
Authors: Fan Liqin , Lin Yunlong , Li Xinxin , Wang Jiahui , Ma Feilong , Du Fang , lin Yunlong
Published: May 2023

Microsclerotia (MS), the anti-stress structures produced by many filamentous fungi, have been proved to be a great substitute for conidia in production of insecticides in entomogenous fungi. NADPH oxidase (Nox) constitutes ROS-response protein family widespread in eukaryotes and plays distinct roles in environmental fitness among various filamentous fungi. However, it is not clear whether Nox is required in the pathogenicity and formation of MS in insect pathogenic fungi. In this study, we reported the presence of NADPH oxidase homologs, which contain three different subunits (NoxAp/NoxBp catalytic subunit and NoxRp regulatory subunit), and further showed biological function in the entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium rileyi. Three Nox genes all showed high expression levels in the entire process of MS formation. Targeted deletion of MrNoxA, MrNoxB and MrNoxR all led to a decrease in MS yield and impaired morphology. Moreover, our anti-adversity results showed that they are indispensable to regulate the growth, tolerate the osmotic pressure and oxidative stress in Metarhizium rileyi. Most importantly, △MrNoxR and △MrNoxA but not △MrNoxB showed a dramatic reduction in virulence via inoculation. The normality of appressoria was impervious since there are no striking differences in virulence compared with WT and all mutants by topical injections. In general, our results revealed that NADPH oxidase may be involved in growth regulation, MS formation and pathogenicity by regulating the ROS metabolism and hyphal polarity.
Prevalence, outcome and factors associated with dysglycemia among critically ill children presenting to Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital: A cross sectional study
Authors: kyomugisa Beatrice , Kiguli Sarah , Piloya Thereza , Oriokot Lorraine , Rujumba Joseph , Munube Deogratious
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Dysglycemia has been shown to influence outcome among critically ill children. We aimed to determine the prevalence, outcome and factors associated with dysglycemia among critically ill children aged one month to 12 years presenting to Fort Portal regional referral hospital.Methods The study employed a descriptive, cross-sectional design for prevalence and factors associated, and longitudinal observational study design to determine the immediate outcome. Critically ill children aged one month to 12 years were systematically sampled and triaged at outpatient department using World Health Organization emergency signs. The random blood glucose was evaluated on admission and at 24 hours. Verbal and written informed consent/assent were obtained after stabilization of the study participants. Those that had hypoglycemia were given Dextrose 10% and those with hyperglycemia had no intervention.Results Of the 384 critically ill children, dysglycemia was present in 21.7% (n = 83), of those 78.3% (n = 65) had hypoglycemia and 21.7% (n = 18) had hyperglycemia. The proportion of dysglycemia at 24 hours was 2.4% (n = 2). None of the study participants had persistent hypoglycemia at 24 hours. The cumulative mortality at 48hours was 3.6% (n = 3). At 48 hours 33.2% (n = 27) had stable blood glucose levels and were discharged from the hospital. After multiple logistic regression, obstructed breathing (AOR 0.07(0.02–0.23), inability to breastfeed/drink (AOR 2.40 (1.17–4.92) and active convulsions (AOR 0.21 (0.06–0.74), were the factors that were significantly associated with dysglycemia among critically ill children. The results will guide in the revision of policies and treatment protocols to facilitate better management of children at risk of dysglycemia nationally.Conclusions Dysglycemia was found to affect one in five critically ill children aged one month to 12 years presenting to Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital. Dysglycemia outcomes are good with early intervention.
Variability and harshness shape flexible strategy-use, support for the Constrained Flexibility Framework
Authors: Pope-Caldwell Sarah , Deffner Dominik , Maurits Luke , Neumann Terrence , Haun Daniel
Published: May 2023

Human cognition is incredibly flexible, allowing us to thrive within diverse environments. However, humans also tend to stick to familiar strategies, even when there are better solutions available. How do we exhibit flexibility in some contexts, yet inflexibility in others? The Constrained Flexibility Framework (CFF) proposes that cognitive flexibility is shaped by variability, predictability, and harshness within decision-making environments. The CFF asserts that high elective flexibility (switching away from a working strategy) is maladaptive in stable or predictably variable environments, but adaptive in unpredictable environments, so long as harshness is low. Here we provide evidence for the CFF using a decision-making task completed by 100 English-speaking adults. In line with the CFF, we found that elective flexibility was suppressed in Stable Not Harsh, Stable Harsh, and Variable Harsh conditions compared to the Variable Not Harsh condition. Our results highlight the need to study how cognitive flexibility adapts to diverse contexts.
Palliative stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy reirradiation for high volume head and neck cancer
Authors: Kawasaki Murilo Kenji , Prado Diogo Dias do , Fonseca Diego de Souza Lima , Morato Leonardo de Faria , Altei Wanessa Fernanda , Dams Ritchell van , Chin Robert , Jacinto Alexandre Arthur
Published: May 2023

Background
Treatment of advanced head and neck cancer (AHNC) has been a substantial challenge for decades, where approximately 50% of AHNC patients will experience locoregional recurrence or metastatic disease after primary treatment. Surgical resection is the preferred strategy in the setting of locoregional recurrence and is associated with better overall survival (OS) when compared with non-surgical strategies. Here we evaluate the role of stereotatic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) as a last line strategy for head and neck cancer (HNC) reirradiation.
Methods
a retrospective review was conducted for HNC patients who underwent reirradiation with SABR from January 2017 to December 2019. All patients were classified as unresectable/inoperable by tumor board and unsuitable to receive chemotherapy due to poor performance status (PS) and/or significant comorbidities. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate locoregional control (LRC), progression free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) endpoints.
Results
Sixty-two patients were eligible for this retrospective analysis. The mean and median gross tumor volume (GTV) were 125.5cc and 75.5cc, respectively. The mean follow up was 9.26 months. The 1- and 2-year OS was 24.0% and 13.3%, respectively, with a median survival time of 6.8 months. The 1-year PFS was 33.6% with a median PFS of 7.7 months. The 1-year LRC was 46.4% with a median LRC of 8.9 months. Univariate and multivariate analysis for PFS demonstrated that mean volume (125.5cc) and an advanced N staging grouping (N ≥ 3) were potential prognostic factors. Three patients developed grade 4 skin necrosis, no other grade 4 toxicity occurred.
Conclusion
Our data shows that 5-fraction SABR is a promising strategy for last line AHNC reirradiation. Small volumes were strongly associated with overall survival, but even larger tumors can be well controlled. Toxicity seems to be acceptable. Future prospective studies are needed to better understand which patients benefit the most from this treatment.
Trial registration:
Retrospectively registered.
Efficacy of mesh bilaterally sacrospinous ligament suspension versus laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy in patients with uterine prolapse
Authors: Wang Gensheng , Li Qing , Xu Hongling , Zhao Zhu , Wang Dan , Zhang Yuyan , Gao Liuqin , Chen Zaoqin
Published: May 2023

Objective The aim in this study was to evaluate the efficacy of mesh bilaterally sacrospinous ligament suspension (MSSLS), as compared with laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) in patients with uterine prolapse.Methods Our study evaluated 98 patients with uterine prolapse in our hospital from January 2021 to January 2023. Patients enrolled were equally divided into the study group (treated with MSSLS operation) and the control group (treated with LSC operation) by random number table. The operation conditions (including operation time, bleeding volume, indwelling catheter time, exhaust time, and hospital stay), stage of pelvic organ prolapse, postoperative recurrence rate, pain degree, quality of life, postoperative pelvic floor function, impact of sexual life, complications and recurrence rate were recorded.Results The study group demonstrated a marked reduction in the operation time, bleeding volume, indwelling catheter time, exhaust time and hospital stay when comparing with the control group (P < 0.05). Before operation, no significant difference was observed in Aa, Ba, Ap, Bp and C between the two groups (P > 0.05), while six months after operation, the five indexes in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). The pain degree showed no significant difference between the two groups before operation (P > 0.05), while was evidently lower in the study group than control group 6 months after operation (P < 0.05). In terms of quality of life, pelvic floor function, and quality of sexual life, no significant difference was found before, 6 months and 12 months after operation (P > 0.05). All patients were followed up for 12–14 months, with an average follow-up time of (13.02 ± 1.36) months. The incidence of complications in the study group was significantly lower than the control group (P < 0.05). However, there was no recurrence in both groups, hence the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).Conclusion MSSLS is a safe and effective treatment for uterine prolapse that significantly avoided complications and recurrence, which is believed available for wide application in clinical practice.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of Tislelizumab vs. Camrelizumab for the treatment of second-line locally advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Pingyu , Fu Chang , Shen Lin , Fei Zhengyang , Luo Mengjie , Chen Yanqiu , Li Hongchao
Published: May 2023

BackgroundTislelizumab is a selective PD-1 inhibitor with efficacy proven in locally advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of tislelizumab versus camrelizumab as the second-line treatment in locally advanced or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients in China.MethodsFrom the perspective of China’s healthcare system, the partitioned survival model with three health states was established in a 3-week cycle and a lifetime horizon. Anchored matching adjusted indirect comparison was used for survival analyses based on individual patient data from RATIONALE 302 trial and the published ESCORT study due to the lack of head-to-head clinical trials. Only direct medical costs were included. Costs and utility values were derived from local charges, the published literature, and related databases. Sensitivity analyses and a scenario analysis were also performed to verify the robustness of the model results.ResultsCompared with camrelizumab monotherapy, tislelizumab monotherapy incurred a lower lifetime cost ($8,346 vs. 8,851) and yielded higher quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) (0.87 vs. 0.63), which resulted in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of -$2,051/QALY. Tislelizumab monotherapy is a dominant option over camrelizumab monotherapy in China. The three primary parameters upon which this result was most sensitive were the unit cost of camrelizumab, the unit cost of tislelizumab, and the duration of reactive cutaneous capillary endothelial proliferation (RCCEP). According to the probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA), tislelizumab monotherapy was 100% cost-effective when the WTP was 1–3 times GDP per capita in China($11,207/QALY∼$33,621/QALY). Scenario analysis showed that the result was consistent.ConclusionTislelizumab monotherapy is a dominant option compared with camrelizumab monotherapy as the second-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic ESCC in China.
Beyond Traditional Methods: Unleashing the Power of Neural Networks in Predicting Early Recurrence and Mortality after Curative Surgery in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Alinia Shayeste , Mahmoudi Leila , norouzi Solmaz , Roshanaei Ghodratollah , Safari Maliheh , Asghari-Jafarabadi Mohammad
Published: May 2023

Background: Medical research frequently relies on Cox regression to analyze the survival distribution of cancer patients. Nonetheless, in specific scenarios, neural networks hold the potential to serve as a robust alternative. In this study, we aim to scrutinize the effectiveness of Cox regression and neural network models in assessing the survival outcomes of patients who have undergone treatment for colorectal cancer.
Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on 284 colorectal cancer patients who underwent surgery at Imam Khomeini clinic in Hamadan between 2001 and 2017. The data was used to train both Cox regression and neural network models, and their predictive accuracy was compared using diagnostic measures such as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, accuracy, negative predictive value, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). The analyses were performed using STATA 17 and R4.0.4 software.
Results: The study revealed that the best neural network model had a sensitivity of 74.5% (95% CI: 61.0-85.0), specificity of 83.3% (65.3-94.4), positive predictive value of 89.1% (76.4-96.4), negative predictive value of 64.1% (47.2-78.8), AUC of 0.79 (0.70-0.88), and accuracy of 0.776 for death prediction. For recurrence, the best neural network model had a sensitivity of 88.1% (74.4%-96.0%), specificity of 83.7% (69.3%-93.2%), positive predictive value of 84.1% (69.9%-93.4%), negative predictive value of 87.8% (73.8%-95.9%), AUC of 0.86 (0.78-0.93), and accuracy of 0.859. The Cox model had comparable results, with a sensitivity of 73.6% (64.8-81.2) and 85.5% (78.3-91.0), specificity of 89.6% (83.8-93.8) and 98.0% (94.4-99.6), positive predictive value of 84.0% (75.6-90.4) and 97.4% (92.6-99.5), negative predictive value of 82.0% (75.6-90.4) and 88.8% (0.83-93.1), AUC of 0.82 (0.77-0.86) and 0.92 (0.89-0.95), and accuracy of 0.88 and 0.92 for death and recurrence prediction, respectively.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the study found that both Cox regression and neural network models are effective in predicting early recurrence and death in patients with colorectal cancer after curative surgery. The neural network model showed slightly better sensitivity and negative predictive value for death, while the Cox model had better specificity and positive predictive value for recurrence. Overall, both models demonstrated high accuracy and AUC, indicating their usefulness in predicting these outcomes.
Evaluation of expression profiles due to garlic intake in young men and women
Authors: Brusgaard klaus , Burton Mark
Published: May 2023

Garlic has shown many and diverse beneficial effects on health. Focus has been on which compounds have effect. We analyze the transcriptional consequences of digesting limited amounts of raw garlic and analyze the overall outcome. This study focuses on the reported health related effects of garlic digestion in relation to the observed transcriptional changes to identify and understand the eventual casual outcome. We utilize a non-hypothesis driven global approach to analyze the transcriptional consequences of eating moderate amounts of garlic in a group of young people. Analyzing changes in gene expression of RNA extracted from peripheral blood using microarrays and performing unsupervised principal components analysis to generate heatmaps. Pathway analysis was performed using fast gene set enrichment analysis with KEGG, Reactome and Gene Ontology defined gene sets as input. A number of significant pathway changes was observed. When correcting for gender difference a possible relation to beneficial effects observed in both men and women was observed. Especially the gender specific immune dimorphism upon garlic digestion Our results support the notion of a link between olfaction, neurology and the immune system and implies that a common mechanism explain the link between garlic ingestion and the previous reported pleiotropic positive effects.
Obesity aggravates ischemia–reperfusion injury-induced acute kidney injury in mice
Authors: Silva Igor O. , Menezes Nicole K. , Jacobina Heloisa D. , Parra Antonio C. , Souza Felipe L. , Castro Leticia Cardoso , Roelofs Joris , Tammaro Alessandra , Gomes Samirah Abreu , Sanches Talita R. , Andrade Lucia
Published: May 2023

In critically ill patients, overweight and obesity are associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome and acute kidney injury (AKI). Although obesity is known to increase oxidative stress, worsen inflammation, and induce a state of Klotho deficiency, its effect on ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI)-induced AKI is unknown. We hypothesized that obesity would aggravate renal IRI in mice. We fed mice a standard or high-fat diet for eight weeks. The mice were divided into four groups and submitted to sham surgery or IRI: obese, normal, normal + IRI, obese, and obese + IRI. All studies were performed 48 h after the procedures. Body weights were higher in the obese and obese + IRI groups than in the normal and normal + IRI groups, respectively. Serum glucose and cholesterol did not differ among the groups. Creatinine clearance also did not differ among the groups. Survival and urinary osmolality were lower in the obese + IRI group than in the normal + IRI group, whereas urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin levels, tubular injury scores, and caspase 3 expression were higher. In the obese + IRI group, the PCNA-positive cell counts were highest, as were the levels of oxidative stress (urinary levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and renal heme oxygenase-1 protein expression), and renal Klotho protein expression was lowest. Notably, macrophage infiltration was greater in the obese group mice than in the normal group mice, despite the fact that none of those mice were induced to AKI. In conclusion, greater oxidative stress might aggravate IRI in obese individuals, and Klotho could be a therapeutic target in those with AKI.
Understanding inequality in health and other expenditures in Kerala
Authors: Kattuman Paul , Nair Ashwin
Published: May 2023

There is renewed interest in understanding economic inequality motivated by unprecedented extremes in the top shares of expenditure, income and wealth, worldwide. We present an empirical account of changes in household expenditure distributions and inequality in Kerala with particular emphasis on health expenditure. The analysis of data for a panel of households surveyed in 2004-5 and 2011-12 indicates that, overall, inequality in household expenditure and income in Kerala declined between those years, contrary to the widely held view. At the same time, inequality among households at the top end of the expenditure distribution is exceptionally extreme for health expenditures, to the point that an infinite population variance cannot be rejected. Conditioned on total household expenditure, health expenditure is highly unequal relative to other types of expenditures. Evidence suggests that households’ higher health expenses go hand in hand with curtailing other types of expenditures, and that the trade-off is more pronounced among households at the lower end of total household expenditure. Remarkably extreme upper-tail expenditure inequality that characterises quasi-public goods in Kerala carries implications for social welfare and health policy.
Severe generalized periodontitis as a risk factor for serious outcomes of COVID- 19: a structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Costa Camila Alves , Vilela Ana Carolina Serafim , Oliveira Suzane Aparecida , Perazzo Matheus França , Leles Cláudio Rodrigues , Costa Nádia Lago
Published: May 2023

Objectives This study aimed to assess the periodontal condition in COVID-19 patients and determine the multidirectional association between severe generalized periodontitis and COVID-19 outcomes.Materials and Methods Periodontal conditions were clinically assessed in 214 hospitalized patients due to COVID-19, and the course of the disease was registered prospectively from hospital admission. A conceptual model was developed to predict the impact of severe generalized periodontitis on poor symptomatology, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and death of COVID-19 patients. The model was tested using Structure Equation Modeling (SEM) to predict severe COVID-19 outcomes as affected by periodontitis, when including comorbidities, patient's age, and smoking habit as potential confounding variables.Results Severe generalized periodontitis was diagnosed in 51 (23.8%) patients, and 52 (26.8%) died due to aggravated COVID-19. SEM analysis revealed that severe generalized periodontitis was positively associated with severe-critical COVID-19 symptoms in hospitalized patients [standard coefficient (sc) = 0.166; 95%CI = 0.014–0.319; p = 0.032] and influenced by confounders (age and smoking). Significant associations were observed in the pathway from presentation of severe-critical symptoms to ICU admission (sc = 0.995; 95%CI = 0.924–1.065; p < 0.001) and death (sc = 0.512; 95%CI = 0.392–0.631; p < 0.001].Conclusions Findings suggest that severe generalized periodontitis may play a role in the aggravation of COVID-19 symptoms and the risks of subsequent need for ICU admission and death.Clinical Relevance: These results elucidate the probable course of the relationship between periodontitis and COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of periodontitis as a risk factor and accentuating the needs of prevention and handle of periodontal disease in the inhibition of COVID-19 complications.
Characterisation of thermally stable bamboo fibre sheet loaded with cobalt ferrite nanoparticles
Authors: - Sheetal , Kaur Pawandeep , Kaur Varinder
Published: May 2023

Magnetic fibres were synthesized by lumen loading method using bamboo fibres as a cellulose source, as well as cobalt ferrites nanoparticles with polyethyleneimine (PEI) as a retention aid. Bamboo fibre is a significant fibrous raw material, and cobalt ferrites particles are suitable for magnetic modification. The resulting composite retained the intrinsic features of cellulose fibre while gaining the magnetic properties of nanoparticles. Cobalt ferrites nanoparticles were synthesised using a sol-gel technique and coated with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) molecules before being functionalized with polyethyleneimine (PEI). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) were used to characterise the samples The nanoparticles produced had an inverse cubic spinel crystalline structure and exhibited ferrimagnetic activity. The coercivity value for Modified fibre produced is greater than 200 Oe, indicating that it may be utilised for magnetic recording.
Comprehensive Analysis of Nematode-Plant-Mycorrhizal Fungus System for Bio Based Products Development
Authors: Garita Sebastián Andrés , Bernardo Valeria Fernanda , Gonzalez Matias , Arango María Cecilia , Ruscitti Marcela
Published: May 2023

Nacobbus aberrans is a plant parasite that causes significant economic losses in the Americas and is considered a quarantine pest in many countries worldwide. Some mycorrhizal fungi have been shown to have the ability to decrease the population of this pathogen, however, most studies have focused on quantifying N. aberrans population variations without considering the effects on the crop or the possibilities of survival of the mycorrhizal fungi. This work consisted of selecting a mycorrhizal fungus strain based on a comprehensive analysis of the Nematode-Plant-Mycorrhizal Fungus system. The test was conducted on Solanum licopersicum, grown in 10-liter pots. The mycorrhizal fungi inoculation was done at planting, and the nematode inoculation was done at the time of transplanting. The evaluated strains were Funneliformis moseeae, Rhizoglomus intraradices A2, and Rhizoglomus intraradices B1. During the crop cycle, net photosynthesis and stomatal conductance were quantified. After removing the plants, biomass weight, stem diameter, chlorophyll concentration, soluble proteins, malonyldialdehyde, proline, phenol content, and relative conductivity were determined in leaf and root tissues. Regarding the nematode population, the number of eggs, mobile forms, final population, and reproduction factor were analyzed. Regarding the mycorrhizal fungus, the percentage of mycorrhization and viability of fungal structures for each treatment were quantified. The analysis of all the mentioned variables contributed to determine that the strain with the highest capacity to compensate for the negative effects of parasitism in the crop, with high possibilities of survival in the substrate and capable of decreasing the population of Nacobbus aberrans, is Funneliformis moseeae.
OSGIN1 is a novel TUBB3 regulator that promotes tumor progression and gefitinib resistance in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Xie Xiaomeng , Laster Kyle Vaughn , Li Jian , Nie Wenna , Yi Yong Weon , Liu Kangdong , Seong Yeon-Sun , Dong Zigang , Kim Dong Joon
Published: May 2023

Background
Oxidative stress induced growth inhibitor 1 (OSGIN1) regulates cell death. The role and underlying molecular mechanism of OSGIN1 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are uncharacterized.
Methods
OSGIN1 expression in NSCLC samples was detected using immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Growth of NSCLC cells and gefitinib-resistant cells expressing OSGIN1 or TUBB3 knockdown was determined by MTT, soft agar, and foci formation assays. The effect of OSGIN1 knockdown on in vivotumor growth was assessed using NSCLC patient-derived xenograft models and gefitinib-resistant patient-derived xenograft models. Potentially interacting protein partners of OSGIN1 were identified using IP-MS/MS, immunoprecipitation, and Western blotting assays. Microtubule dynamics were explored by tubulin polymerization assay and immunofluorescence. Differential expression of signaling molecules in OSGIN1 knockdown cells was investigated using phospho-proteomics, KEGG analysis, and Western blotting.
Results
We found that OSGIN1 is highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and is positively correlated with low survival rates and tumor size in lung cancer patients. OSGIN1 knockdown inhibited NSCLC cell growth and patient-derived NSCLC tumor growth in vivo. Knockdown of OSGIN1 strongly increased tubulin polymerization and re-established gefitinib sensitivity in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, knockdown of TUBB3 strongly inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation. Mechanistically, we found that OSGIN1 enhances DYRK1A-mediated TUBB3 phosphorylation, which is critical for inducing tubulin depolymerization. The results of phospho-proteomics and ontology analysis indicated that knockdown of OSGIN1 led to reduced propagation of the MKK3/6-p38 signaling axis.
Conclusions
We propose that OSGIN1 modulates microtubule dynamics by enhancing DYRK1A-mediated phosphorylation of TUBB3 at serine 172. Moreover, elevated OSGIN1 expression promotes NSCLC tumor growth and gefitinib resistance through the MKK3/6-p38 signaling pathway. Our findings unveil a new mechanism of OSGIN1 and provide a promising therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment in the clinic.