bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KAJIAN LITERATUR: FAKTOR PENENTU PERTOLONGAN PERTAMA MASYARAKAT AWAM PADA PASIEN SESAK DENGAN SUSPECT COVID-19
Authors: Shidiq Syafari Nur , Handayani Vitria Wuri , Baedlawi Azhari , Ardiansyah Fakrul
Published: March 2023

Latar Belakang: Sesak sebagai salah satu tanda penderita Covid-19 pada kondisi pandemik sulit dibedakan dengan kondisi sesak lainnya dan sulit untuk dilakukan screening secara tepat dan cepat terutama oleh masyarakat awam. Belajar dari kondisi darurat akibat pandemi Covid-19, faktor-faktor seperti pengetahuan, kecemasan, keterampilan masyarakat dan memberikan pertolongan pertama bagi pasien sesak Covid19 dapat mempengaruhi kecepatan penanganan pertama sesak pada pasien Covid-19 atau suspect Covid-19. Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang dapat mempengaruhi pertolongan pertama oleh masyarakat awam pada pasien sesak dengan suspect Covid-19 berdasarkan hasil review literature. Bahan dan Metode: Metode penelitian ini menggunakan Study Literature Review. Literatur ini didapatkan dari menggunakan Google scholar dan ResearchGate dan 5 literatur review dilakukan analisaPICO. Hasil: Dalam penelitian yang direview, ada dua artikel yang menunjukkan bahwa determinan faktor pertolongan pertama pada pasien sesak Covid-19 dipengaruhi oleh tingkat pengetahuan serta keterampilan masyarakat awam dalam menangani pasien sesak Covid-19. Review jurnal ini memberi gambaran secara literatur tentang penelitian yang dilakukan untuk mengetahui faktor pertolongan pertama pada pasien sesak Covid-19 yang dilakukan oleh masyarakat awam.

Kata Kunci: Pertolongan Pertama; Pasien Covid-19; Sistem Pernafasan
KOMPETENSI APARATUR DALAM MENINGKATKAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN PUBLIK DI DINAS TENAGA KERJA DAN TRANSMIGRASI KABUPATEN PESAWARAN PROVINSI LAMPUNG
Authors: Mahmuda Dana , Saputra Romi , Nurrahman Agung
Published: March 2023

Terjadinya ketimpangan atau kekurangan aparatur untuk jabatan pelaksana pada Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Transmigrasi Kabupaten Pesawaran menjadi salah satu fokus permasalahan penelitian. Tujuan penelitian untuk memperoleh gambaran umum dan menganalisis kompetensi aparatur dalam peningkatan kualitas pelayanan publik di Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Transmigrasi Kabupaten Pesawaran Provinsi Lampung. Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Temuan penelitian, Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Transmigrasi Kabupaten Pesawaran masih menghadapi masalah terkait kuantitas dan kualitas aparatur. Selain itu masih terdapat penempatan jabatan pegawai yang belum sesuai dengan latar belakang pendidikannya. Kesimpulannya, terkait dengan kompetensi aparatur Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Transmigrasi Kabupaten Pesawaran Provinsi Lampung telah memenuhi keempat dimensi yaitu membantu dan melayani orang lain,mampu mempengaruhi dan menciptakan dampak, memiliki kemampuan manajerial dan kemampuan efektivitas pribadi. Namun terdapat satu dimensi yang masih kurang baik dalam penyelenggaraan kompetensi aparatur yaitu dimensi berorientasi pada prestasi dan tindakan, dimana pegawai yang menduduki jabatan belum sesuai dengan latar belakang pendidikannya.

Kata Kunci: Kompetensi, Aparatur, Pelayanan Publik
PERPUSTAKAAN DESA: PERMASALAHAN, TANTANGAN DAN UPAYANYA DITINJAU DARI MODEL PENTA HELIX
Authors: Rahmadanita Annisa
Published: March 2023

Penyelenggaraan perpustakaan desa berbasis inklusi sosial diharapkan dapat mendorong peningkatan kesejahteraan masyarakat desa, namun sejak tahun 2018 program tersebut diluncurkan oleh pemerintah, masih terdapat perpustakaan desa yang belum bertransformasi berbasis inklusi sosial. Kajian ini dilakukan untuk untuk memperoleh gambaran umum dan mendeskripsikan tentang permasalahan, tantangan dan upaya penyelenggaraan perpustakaan desa ditinjau dari model penta helix. Kajian ini merupakan studi kepustakaan dan penulis mengumpulkan data melalui artikel jurnal publikasi, buku, dan portal berita yang relevan dengan objek kajian. Analisis data dilakukan melalui analisis isi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa permasalahan yang dihadapi perpustakaan desa diantaranya terbatasnya anggaran, sumber daya manusia yang kurang memadai, sarana dan prasarana pendukung yang kurang memadai, pengelolaan dan pembinaan perpustakaan desa yang kurang optimal. Di sisi lain, tantangan yang dihadapi perpustakaan desa adalah berkembangnya teknologi yang begitu cepat dalam penyelenggaraan perpustakaan desa berbasis inklusi sosial. Upaya yang dapat dilakukan dalam penyelenggaraan perpustakaan berbasis inklusi sosial adalah dengan sinergitas, harmonsasi dan kolaborasi antara elemen akademisi, pihak swasta, pemerintah, masyarakat dan media. Kesimpulannya, perpustakaan desa merupakan suatu bagian dari gambaran suatu komunitas desa. Adapun pada level daerah, perpustakaan masih menghadapi berbagai macam permasalahan dna tantangan lainnya, begitupula dengan perpustakaan desa menghadapi permasalahan yang jauh lebih kompleks. Oleh karenanya diperlukan pendekatan dari berbagai macam pihak melalui model penta helix dalam menghadapi tantangan dan mengatasi permasalahan tersebut.

Kata Kunci: Inklusi Sosial, Model Penta Helix, Perpustakaan Desa.
PENERTIBAN LAPAK PEDAGANG KAWASAN FLYOVER KELOK SEMBILAN OLEH SATUAN POLISI PAMONG PRAJA DI KABUPATEN LIMA PULUH KOTA
Authors: Hakiki Muhammad , Eviany Eva , Jalaludin Selamat
Published: March 2023

Masih banyaknya pedagang yang berjualan di Kawasan Flyover Kelok Sembilan padahal hal tersebut dilarang dalam peraturan daerah menjadi fokus pembahasan pada artikel ini. Tujuan penulisan artikel adalah untuk mengetahui penertiban lapak pedagang Kawasan Flyover Kelok Sembilan oleh Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja dan untuk mengetahui faktor pendukung dan penghambat penertiban lapak pedagang di Kawasan Flyover Kelok Sembilan. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dan menggunakan teknik pengumpulan data terdiri dari observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Informan pada penelitian ini yaitu Kepala Satpol PP Kabupaten Lima Puluh Kota, Kepala Seksi Operasional dan Logistik, serta pedagang lapak Kawasan Flyover Kelok Sembilan. Teknis analisis data yang digunakan yaitu reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Satpol PP Kabupaten Lima Puluh Kota sudah melakukan penertiban lapak pedagang di Kawasan Flyover Kelok Sembilan dan menggunakan pendekatan persuasif. Akan tetapi penertiban yang dilakukan Satpol PP belum diindahkan dengan baik oleh para pedagang dan bisa dilihat dari masih ada lapak pedagang di Kawasan Flyover Kelok Sembilan. Oleh karena itu Pemerintah Daerah harus segera mungkin menyelesaikan tempat relokasi bagi para pedagang. dan para pedagang yang berada di Kawasan Flyover Kelok Sembilan harus memiliki kesadaran yang tinggi terhadap tugas Satpol PP dalam menegakkan aturan dan tidak berdagang pada tempat yang dilarang oleh pemerintah daerah.Kata Kunci: Lapak Pedagang, Penertiban, Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja
PERAN SATUAN POLISI PAMONG PRAJA DALAM MENEGAKKAN ADAPTASI KEBIASAAN BARU DI KOTA PAYAKUMBUH DI PROVINSI SUMATERA BARAT
Authors: Rizal Arifullah , Rukmana Maris Gunawan , Jalaludin Selamat
Published: March 2023

Pandemi covid-19 menyebabkan tata kehidupan masyarakat indonesia berubah ke adaptasi yang baru. Sebagaimana yang diatur dalam Peraturan Daerah Provinsi Sumatera Barat Nomor 6 Tahun 2020 tentang Adaptasi Kebiasaan baru dalam pencegahan dan Pengendalian Corona Virus Disease 2019 mengatur tentang bagaimana kehidupan yang harus dijalani di masa pandemi covid-19 serta mengatur seluruh sanksi yang diberikan kepada pelanggar yang tidak mematuhi aturan mengenai adaptasi kebiasaan baru. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan dan menganalisis peran satuan polisi pamong praja dalam menegakkan adaptasi kebiasaan baru pada masa covid-19 di Kota Payakumbuh dan untuk mendeskripsikan dan menganalisis faktor pendukung dan penghambat peran satuan polisi pamong praja Kota Payakumbuh dalam menegakkan adaptasi kebiasaan baru. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dan menggunakan teknik pengumpulan data terdiri dari observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Satpol PP Kota Payakumbuh telah melaksanakan penegakan adaptasi kebiasaan baru dengan sebagaimana mestinya. Akan tetapi peran yang dilakukan Satpol PP masih terkendala oleh faktor kondisi masyarakat yang menentang namun juga didukung dengan aplikasi SIPelaDa yang memudahkan pendataan pelanggar. Oleh karena itu Pemerintah Daerah harus bisa memaksimalkan peran dari SatPol PP Kota Payakumbuh dalam menegakkan Adaptasi Kebiasaan Baru.Kata kunci: Adaptasi Kebiasaan Baru, Peran, Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja.
KINERJA SATUAN POLISI PAMONG PRAJA DALAM PENERTIBAN PEDAGANG KAKI LIMA DI KABUPATEN KAMPAR
Authors: Fahmi Farhan Alafif , Rozie Azharisman , Jalaludin Selamat
Published: March 2023

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi karena meningkatnya jumlah Pedagang Kaki Lima di Kabupaten Kampar yang tidak tertib, sehingga menimbulkan kesemrawutan dan mengganggu pengguna jalan yang menggunakan trotoar. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana kinerja Satpol PP dalam melakukan penertiban terhadap pedagang kaki lima dan kendala-kendala yang dihadapi oleh Satpol PP serta upaya mengatasi kendala tersebut dalam upaya penertiban pedagang kaki lima di Kabupaten Kampar. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini ialah metode kualitatif deskriptif dan menggunakan teknik pengumpulan data secara observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian memperlihatkan bahwa kinerja Satpol PP Kabupaten Kampar dalam penertiban pedagang kaki lima sudah cukup baik namun belum maksimal, karena masih ditemukannya beberapa kendala dalam pelaksanaan penertiban. Hal ini dibuktikan melalui teori kinerja yang digunakan pada penelitian ini ialah melalui dimensi kualitas, kuantitas, ketepatan waktu, efektivitas dan kemandirian. Oleh karena itu Pemerintah Daerah harus sesegera mungkin memberikan solusi terbaik untuk menertibkan pedagang kaki lima di Kabupaten Kampar, agar lebih tertib dan tidak mengganggu ketentraman serta kenyamanan masyarakat lainnya. Dan para pedagang kaki lima harus mempunyai kesadaran untuk selalu menaati aturan yang berlaku dan tertib terutama saat adanya pengawasan maupun penertiban oleh Satpol PP agar terciptanya ketertiban dan ketentraman dalam masyarakat.Kata Kunci: Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja, Penertiban, Pedagang Kaki Lima.
PERAN SATUAN POLISI PAMONG PRAJA DALAM PENERTIBAN MINUMAN BERALKOHOL DI KABUPATEN TEMANGGUNG PROVINSI JAWA TENGAH
Authors: Pratomo Herjuno , Tendean Noudy R.P , Utama Lalu Satria
Published: March 2023

Maraknya penyalahgunaan dan peredaran minuman beralkohol di Kabupaten Temanggung menimbulkan berbagai dampak buruk di lingkungan masyarakat. Satpol PP sebagai perangkat daerah mempunyai tupoksi untuk menegakan Perda dan mewujudkan trantibum. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui peran Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja Kabupaten Temanggung dalam penertiban minuman beralkohol di Kabupaten Temanggung. Metode penelitian menggunakan deskriptif kualitatif. Informan sebagai sumber informasi yaitu dari unsur Satpol PP Kabupaten Temanggung, Tokoh Masyarakat, dan Konsumen. Hasil dari penelitian ini diketahui bahwa peran Satpol PP Kabupaten Temanggung, keunggulannya meliputi: (1) adanya SOP dalam giat penertiban, (2) adanya perencanaan tim dengan pembagian tugas yang baik (3) adanya perencanaan jadwal rutin, (4) optimalisasi sumberdaya yang ada, (5) koordinasi yang baik. Kekurangannya adalah: (1) pernah terjadikebocoran informasi (2) kurangnya sosialisasi, (3) kurangnya SDM.Kata Kunci: Peran, Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja, Minuman Beralkohol
PERANAN SATUAN POLISI PAMONG PRAJA DALAM MENEGAKKAN PERATURAN DAERAH TENTANG PELARANGAN MINUMAN BERALKOHOL DI KABUPATEN INDRAMAYU
Authors: Tiar Khaliza
Published: March 2023

Minuman beralkohol merupakan salah satu permasalahan sosial yang terjadi di masyarakat yang bisa menjadi ancaman bagi ketentraman, dan ketertiban di lingkungan. Konsumsi minuman beralkohol dapat memicu terjadinya tindak pidana dan masalah lainnya hingga dapat menimbulkan korban jiwa. Menyikapi dampak negatif tersebut, Pemda Kabupaten Indramayu mengesahkan Perda yang melarang peredaran minuman beralkohol untuk mewujudkan Indramayu zero alcohol. Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja memiliki andil besar sebagai perangkat daerah penegak Perda dan Perkada. Penelitian ini bertujuan memperoleh gambaran peranan Satpol PP, faktor penghambat dan pendukung, serta upaya Satpol PP dalam menegakkan Perda tentang Pelarangan Minuman Beralkohol di Kabupaten Indramayu. Dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dan pendekatan induktif, penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Satpol PP dapat dikatakan telah melaksanakan peranannya dengan baik dengan menekan angka peredaran minuman beralkohol untuk menghentikan peredarannya di. Faktor-faktor pendukung dan penghambat ditemukan dalam upaya penegakan Perda. Upaya penegakan Perda yang dilakukan oleh Satpol PP adalah dengan melakukan sosialisasi kepada masyarakat dan pedagang, berkoordinasi dengan instansi lain, serta melakukan razia atau giat operasi penegakan Perda.

 

Kata Kunci: Peranan, Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja, Peraturan Daerah, Minuman Beralkohol.
PENGEMBANGAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN PROBLEM SOLVING BERBANTUAN LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM UNTUK MENGEMBANGKAN KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KRITIS SISWA
Authors: Rahayu Titiek Puji
Published: March 2023

This study aims to produce a problem solving learning model with LMS in developing students' critical thinking skills on buffer solution material and knowing how to implement it. The research method used is Research & Development (R&D) which refers to the Thiagarajan model with the stages of define, design, and develop. The trial results show that the LMS-assisted problem solving learning model on the buffer solution, make conditions student-centered becomes interactive and fun, improves students' understanding and memory of the buffer solution concept, gives students the freedom to ask questions or express opinions. Based on the research results, it can be concluded that the development of LMS-assisted problem solving learning models can develop students' critical thinking skills on the buffer solution material.
THE USE OF MOBILE LEARNING TO ENHANCE LEARNING INNOVATION PASCA PANDEMIC COVID-19
Authors: Casmat Memet , Pribadi Benny Agus
Published: March 2023

This study aims to identify the characteristics, objectives, benefits, advantages and limitations of mobile learning, analyzing opportunities and challenges the use of mobile learning as a learning model during the Covid-19 pandemic as well describes the application of the use of mobile learning in learning in education base. This research is a literature study with a qualitative approach using descriptive-analytic analysis. The research results show that mobile learning as a subset of e-learning has many advantages in facilitating learning process without the limits of time, space and place. Although it has limitations, but mobile learning has a very good opportunity to be utilized on virtual learning during the covid-19 pandemic as an alternative to learning face to face. Tablets, smartphones and laptops can be used as supporting devices in the implementation of mobile learning. In order to be implemented optimally, teacher skills are needed in operating the device and designing teaching materials properly digitally based.
Mucocutaneous adverse events to immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Muhaj Fiorinda , Karri Padmavathi V. , Moody Wylie , Brown Alexandria , Patel Anisha B.
Published: March 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy. Since the approval of ipilimumab in 2011, a total of nine ICIs have gained indications for various solid and hematologic malignancies. The expanding use of ICIs in oncology underscores the need for diagnosis and treatment expertise in immune related adverse events (irAE). Cutaneous toxicities are the earliest and most common irAE in this class of therapy. In addition to the more frequent reactions including vitiligo, lichenoid dermatitis, psoriasiform dermatitis, other less common skin toxicities including bullous dermatoses, neutrophilic dermatoses, and autoimmune dermato-rheumatologic diseases have been reported. Even though less than 3% of cutaneous irAEs (irCAEs) are classified as grade 3 or higher events, irCAEs can greatly impact quality of life. Appropriate management of irCAEs is critical to avoid unwarranted interruptions or discontinuation of lifesaving immunotherapy.
Magnetic resonance imaging enhancement using prior knowledge and a denoising scheme that combines total variation and histogram matching techniques
Authors: Schiano Di Cola Vincenzo , Mango Dea M. L. , Bottino Alessandro , Andolfo Lorenzo , Cuomo Salvatore
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Brain perfusion-weighted images obtained through dynamic contrast studies play a critical and clinical role in diagnosis and treatment decisions. However, due to the patient's limited exposure to radiation, computed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suffers from low contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs). Denoising MRI images is a critical task in many e-health applications for disease detection. The challenge in this research field is to define novel algorithms and strategies capable of improving accuracy and performance in terms of image vision quality and computational cost to process data. Using MRI statistical information, the authors present a method for improving image quality by combining a total variation-based denoising algorithm with histogram matching (HM) techniques.

Methods

The total variation is the Rudin–Osher–Fatemi total variation (TV-ROF) minimization approach, TV-L2, using the isotropic TV setting for the bounded variation (BV) component. The dual-stage approach is tested against two implementations of the TV-L2: the split Bregman (SB) algorithm and a fixed-point (FP) iterations scheme. In terms of HM, the study explores approximate matching and the exact histogram matching from Coltuc.

Results

As measured by the structural similarity index (SIMM), the results indicate that in the more realistic study scenarios, the FP with an HM pairing is one of the best options, with an improvement of up to 12.2% over the one without an HM.

Discussion

The findings can be used to evaluate and investigate more advanced machine learning-based approaches for developing novel denoising algorithms that infer information from ad hoc MRI histograms. The proposed methods are adapted to medical image denoising since they account for the preference of the medical expert: a single parameter can be used to balance the preservation of (expert-dependent) relevant details against the degree of noise reduction.
A simple and efficient strategy for trace detection of ferroptosis-related miRNAs based on novel hydrophobic paper-based plasmonic substrate and “inverse molecular sentinel (iMS)” nanoprobes
Authors: Wang Youwei , Chen Bing , Fan Jiang , Wang Zhong
Published: March 2023

Monitoring ferroptosis-related miRNAs is crucial for the treatment and prognosis of patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. In this work, a novel hydrophobic paper (h-paper)-based plasmonic substrate was produced by dropping DS Au nanorods with a narrow range of sizes and morphologies onto h-paper. Raman reporter molecules were adsorbed to the array surface, and surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectra at randomly selected points reveal uniform and significant SERS enhancement. Hairpin DNAs labelled with Raman reporters and hybridized with placeholder DNAs were decorated on SERS substrate to fabricate SERS biosensor. Target miRNAs initiated the “inverse Molecular Sentinel” process. During the process, PHs were removed and the conformation of HPs changed toward the hairpin structure, thus eliciting the proximity of Raman reporter to substrate and a stronger SERS signal. The proposed SERS biosensor performs well in terms of stability, reproducibility, and selectivity. The limits of detection of miR-122-5p and miR-140-5p in serum were 4.17 aM and 4.49 aM, respectively. Finally, the fabricated SERS biosensor was applied to detect miR-122-5p and miR-140-5p in ICH patients and healthy subjects, and the results obtained by SERS were consistent with the results from quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, revealing the accuracy of the method. This simple, rapid approach offers great potential for the simultaneous detection of miRNAs in practical clinical applications.
Alternative splicing in shaping the molecular landscape of the cochlea
Authors: Kim Kwan Soo , Koo Hei Yeun , Bok Jinwoong
Published: March 2023

The cochlea is a complex organ comprising diverse cell types with highly specialized morphology and function. Until now, the molecular underpinnings of its specializations have mostly been studied from a transcriptional perspective, but accumulating evidence points to post-transcriptional regulation as a major source of molecular diversity. Alternative splicing is one of the most prevalent and well-characterized post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Many molecules important for hearing, such as cadherin 23 or harmonin, undergo alternative splicing to produce functionally distinct isoforms. Some isoforms are expressed specifically in the cochlea, while some show differential expression across the various cochlear cell types and anatomical regions. Clinical phenotypes that arise from mutations affecting specific splice variants testify to the functional relevance of these isoforms. All these clues point to an essential role for alternative splicing in shaping the unique molecular landscape of the cochlea. Although the regulatory mechanisms controlling alternative splicing in the cochlea are poorly characterized, there are animal models with defective splicing regulators that demonstrate the importance of RNA-binding proteins in maintaining cochlear function and cell survival. Recent technological breakthroughs offer exciting prospects for overcoming some of the long-standing hurdles that have complicated the analysis of alternative splicing in the cochlea. Efforts toward this end will help clarify how the remarkable diversity of the cochlear transcriptome is both established and maintained.
Performance of microbiological tests for tuberculosis diagnostic according to the type of respiratory specimen: A 10-year retrospective study
Authors: Boldi Marc-Olivier , Denis-Lessard Justin , Neziri Rina , Brouillet René , von-Garnier Christophe , Chavez Valérie , Mazza-Stalder Jesica , Jaton Katia , Greub Gilbert , Opota Onya
Published: March 2023

Background

The microbial diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) remains challenging and relies on multiple microbiological tests performed on different clinical specimens. Polymerase chain reactions (PCRs), introduced in the last decades has had a significant impact on the diagnosis of TB. However, questions remain about the use of PCRs in combination with conventional tests for TB, namely microscopy and culture. We aimed to determine the performance of microscopy, culture and PCR for the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis according to the type of clinical specimen in order to improve the diagnostic yield and to avoid unnecessary, time and labor-intensive tests.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study (2008-2018) on analysis (34’429 specimens, 14’358 patients) performed in our diagnostic laboratory located in the Lausanne University Hospital to compare the performance of microbiological tests on sputum, induced sputum, bronchial aspirate and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). We analysed the performance using a classical “per specimen” approach and a “per patient” approach for paired specimens collected from the same patient.

Results

The overall sensitivities of microscopy, PCR and culture were 0.523 (0.489, 0.557), 0.798 (0.755, 0.836) and 0.988 (0.978, 0.994) and the specificity were 0.994 (0.993, 0.995), 1 (0.999, 1) and 1 (1, 1). Microscopy displayed no significant differences in sensitivity according to the type of sample. The sensitivities of PCR for sputum, induced sputum, bronchial aspirate and BAL were, 0.821 (0.762, 0.871), 0.643 (0.480, 0.784), 0.837 (0.748, 0.904) and 0.759 (0.624, 0.865) respectively and the sensitivity of culture were, 0.993 (0.981, 0.998), 0.980 (0.931, 0.998), 0.965 (0.919, 0.988), and 1 (0.961, 1) respectively. Pairwise comparison of specimens collected from the same patient reported a significantly higher sensitivity of PCR on bronchial aspirate over BAL (p < 0.001) and sputum (p < 0.05) and a significantly higher sensitivity of culture on bronchial aspirate over BAL (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

PCR displayed a higher sensitivity and specificity than microscopy for all respiratory specimens, a rational for a smear-independent PCR-based approach to initiate tuberculosis microbial diagnostic. The diagnosis yield of bronchial aspirate was higher than BAL. Therefore, PCR should be systematically performed also on bronchial aspirates when available.
Cool cats and communities: Exploring the challenges and successes of community-based approaches to protecting felids from the illegal wildlife trade
Authors: Green Aalayna R. , Anagnostou Michelle , Harris Nyeema C. , Allred Shorna B.
Published: March 2023

Implementing community-based approaches to countering illegal wildlife trade is important to not only improve the effectiveness of strategies to protect wildlife, but also to promote equity and justice. We conducted an international exploratory review of interventions that aim to address the illegal trade in wildlife using a variety of community-based approaches. We focused our study on Felidae species in particular, as they factor centrally in the illegal wildlife trade, and have received significant conservation attention due to many being charismatic species. We searched for case studies that have been or are currently being implemented, and that were published between 2012-2022 in scholarly or grey literature databases. We extracted data on 40 case studies across 34 countries, including information on the approaches used, successes, challenges, and recommendations using a Theory of Change framework for community action on illegal wildlife trade. Initiatives to protect Felidae species from illegal trade could consider using multi-pronged approaches, consider historically underrepresented groups within communities - including women - in their design, and should evaluate the social and ecological outcomes to improve future efforts.
Concomitant intra-atrial excision of the left atrial appendage during robotic-assisted minimally invasive cardiac surgery
Authors: Ghinescu Mihnea , Franke Ulrich F. W. , Ortega Melisa , Hüther Franziska , Rufa Magdalena I. , Göbel Nora
Published: March 2023

Objective

Surgical closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing cardiac surgery can decrease the risk of stroke and thromboembolism and should therefore be considered. In minimally invasive, thoracoscopic, or robotic-assisted mitral valve surgery, however, external procedures such as clip application or epicardial resection are not feasible due to anatomic limitations and the reduced size of the access port. Internal suture closing techniques bear the risk of recurrent LAA reperfusion, so far. We present a novel surgical technique of LAA excision and subsequent defect closure from the interior aspect of the atrium.

Methods

We developed this novel technique during robotic-assisted cardiac surgeries. In short, the LAA is invaginated into the left atrium, excised completely at the base using scissors and the stump is then closed from the inside with a two-layer looped PTFE suture. We give a detailed step-by-step description of the technique.

Results

A total of 20 patients received intra-atrial LAA excision so far. Complete resection of the LAA without any residual stump or bleeding was achieved in all cases. There were no procedure-related complications.

Conclusion

The intra-atrial LAA excision technique shows promising preliminary results regarding efficacy, safety, and reproducibility during robotic-assisted cardiac operations and could be recommended for all right-sided minimally invasive cardiac surgical procedures.
Genetic mechanisms and a stability evaluation of large landslides in Zhangjiawan, Qinghai Province
Authors: Wu Yuanzao , Dong Yangdan , Wei Zhanxi , Dong Jianhui , Peng Liang , Yan Pan , Ma Wenli
Published: March 2023

It is important to study the instability law of typical landslides to understand the evolution of regional landslides and for disaster prevention. This study uses the Zhangjiawan landslide in Xining City, Qinghai Province, as an example. Through field surveys and an analysis of the geological environmental conditions, the formation and evolution mechanisms of the Zhangjiawan landslide are summarized. The stability of the Zhangjiawan landslide was evaluated using limit equilibrium and numerical simulation methods to provide theoretical support for the susceptibility of the Zhangjiawan landslide. The results show that the main reasons for the occurrence of multi-grade landslides are the steep and gentle terrain changes, the poor permeability of the mudstone lithology, the excavation of the front anti-slide section, and rainfall. The whole deformation and failure mechanism of the landslide is the “unloading rebound-tension deformation-creep deformation.” The results of the numerical simulation and the limit equilibrium methods are nearly the same, and the difference in the stability coefficients is small. Under rainstorm conditions, the displacement and the maximum shear strain increments are mainly concentrated on the rear edge of the landslide mass, and the front edge is pushed, which is a typical push-type landslide.
Does access to credit matter in land transfer decision-making? Evidence from China
Authors: Yu Xi , Su Qin , Lyu Jianxing
Published: March 2023

Land transfer is a favorable tool to solve the low land utilization rate caused by population aging and migration. Most previous studies on land transfer behavior focused on the participation and area of transfer, while little attention was paid to farmers’ future land transfer intentions. Hence, by building an analysis framework of land transfer-in “participation-area-future willingness,” this study uses the recent farm-level data from China to systematically examine the relationship between access to credit and land transfer-in decisions. To address the potential endogeneity and selection bias from the observable and unobservable factors, we employ the endogenous switching regression (ESR) model and endogenous switching probit (ESP) model for the analysis. The empirical results show that access to credit increases the expected probability of land transfer-in participation and futural intention, as well as helps to expand the land transfer-in area. Specifically, access to credit contributes to increasing the participation, area, and futural willingness of farmers’ land transfer-in by 62.6%, 126%, and 74.9%, respectively. The positive role of access to credit is confirmed by the estimates of the propensity score matching (PSM) approach. Our findings highlight that financial support through access to credit can encourage farmers’ land transfer-in decisions and further protect the limited arable land source.
The effect of dietary niacin deficiency on reproduction of European brown hares: An experimental study
Authors: Selimovic Aldin , Tissier Mathilde L. , Stalder Gabrielle , Painer-Gigler Johanna , Haw Anna , Rauch Hanna , Arnold Walter
Published: March 2023

Large plots of maize in agricultural landscapes are associated with reduced reproductive output of females and impaired population development of free-living populations of European brown hares (Lepus europaeus, Pallas 1778). We investigated in captive brown hares experimentally whether these effects could result from an undersupply of niacin due to a suspected maize-biased diet in such areas. We repeatedly mated adult female hares, fed ad libitum either with a niacin deficient pellet mainly consisting of maize plant parts, or with the same pellet enriched with niacin to meet physiological requirements. We measured effects of the experimental feeding on body mass of females, reproductive output, growth and survival of leverets. We found significantly higher body mass of females fed the control pellet, and faster body mass gain of their leverets until standardized weaning. We found no significant difference between niacin deficient and control diet groups in reproductive output of females and survival rates of leverets. Our results show that even a diet severely depauperate of niacin affects reproductive success of female brown hares only slightly, presumably because of sufficient conversion of tryptophan to niacin, or of additional supply of niacin by caecal microorganism.
Comparative-genomic analysis reveals dynamic NLR gene loss and gain across Apiaceae species
Authors: Liang Xiaohui , Dong Junming
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat (NLR) genes play a crucial role in green plants’ responding to various pathogens. Genome-scale evolutionary studies of NLR genes are important for discovering and applying functional NLR genes. However, little is known about the evolution of NLR genes in the Apiaceae family including agricultural and medical plants.

Methods: In this study, comparative genomic analysis was performed in four Apiaceae species to trace the dynamic evolutionary patterns of NLR genes during speciation in this family.

Results: The results revealed different number of NLR genes in these four Apiaceae species, namely, Angelica sinensis (95), Coriandrum sativum (183), Apium graveolens (153) and Daucus carota (149). Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that NLR genes in these four species were derived from 183 ancestral NLR lineages and experienced different levels of gene-loss and gain events. The contraction pattern of the ancestral NLR lineages was discovered during the evolution of D. carota, whereas a different pattern of contraction after first expansion of NLR genes was observed for A. sinensis, C. sativum and A. graveolens.

Discussion: Taken together, rapid and dynamic gene content variation has shaped evolutionary history of NLR genes in Apiaceae species.
In silico analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism (rs34377097) of TBXA2R gene and pollen induced bronchial asthma susceptibility in West Bengal population, India
Authors: Ganai Indranil , Saha Ishita , Banerjee Priyajit , Laha Arghya , Sultana Saheen , Sultana Nasima , Biswas Himani , Moitra Saibal , Podder Sanjoy
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Prevalence of asthma is increasing steadily among general population in developing countries over past two decades. One of the causative agents of broncho-constriction in asthma is thromboxane A2 receptor (TBXA2R). However few studies of TBXA2R polymorphism were performed so far. The present study aimed to assess potential association of TBXA2R rs34377097 polymorphism causing missense substitution of Arginine to Leucine (R60L) among 482 patients diagnosed with pollen-induced asthma and 122 control participants from West Bengal, India. Also we performed in-silico analysis of mutated TBXA2R protein (R60L) using homology modeling.

Methods

Clinical parameters like Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1/Forced vital capacity (FVC) and Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) were assessed using spirometry. Patients’ sensitivity was measured by skin prick test (SPT) against 16 pollen allergens. Polymerase chain reaction-based Restriction fragment length polymorphism was done for genotyping. Structural model of wild type and homology model of polymorphic TBXA2R was generated using AlphaFold2 and MODELLER respectively. Electrostatic surface potential was calculated using APBS plugin in PyMol.

Results

Genotype frequencies differed significantly between the study groups (P=0.03). There was no significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in control population (χ2=1.56). Asthmatic patients have significantly higher frequency of rs34377097TT genotype than control subjects (P=0.03). SPT of patients showed maximum sensitivity in A. indica (87.68%) followed by C. nusifera (83.29%) and C. pulcherima (74.94%). Significant difference existed for pollen sensitivity in adolescent and young adult (P=0.01) and between young and old adult (P=0.0003). Significant negative correlation was found between FEV1/FVC ratio and intensity of SPT reactions (P<0.0001). Significant association of FEV1, FEV1/FVC and PEFR was observed with pollen-induced asthma. Furthermore, risk allele T was found to be clinically correlated with lower FEV1/FVC ratio (P=0.015) in patients. Our data showed R60L polymorphism, which was conserved across mammals, significantly reduced positive electrostatic charge of polymorphic protein in cytoplasmic domain thus altered downstream pathway and induced asthma response.

Discussion

The present in-silico study is the first one to report association of TBXA2R rs34377097 polymorphism in an Indian population. It may be used as prognostic marker of clinical response to asthma in West Bengal and possible target of therapeutics in future.
Antiphospholipid antibodies in patients with stroke during COVID-19: A role in the signaling pathway leading to platelet activation
Authors: Capozzi Antonella , Riitano Gloria , Recalchi Serena , Manganelli Valeria , Longo Agostina , Falcou Anne , De Michele Manuela , Garofalo Tina , Pulcinelli Fabio M. , Sorice Maurizio , Misasi Roberta
Published: March 2023

Background

Several viral and bacterial infections, including COVID-19, may lead to both thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications. Previously, it has been demonstrated an “in vitro” pathogenic effect of “antiphospholipid” antibodies (aPLs), which are able to activate a proinflammatory and procoagulant phenotype in monocytes, endothelial cells and platelets. This study analyzed the occurrence of aPL IgG in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) during COVID-19, evaluating the effect of Ig fractions from these patients on signaling and functional activation of platelets.

Materials and methods

Sera from 10 patients with AIS during COVID-19, 10 non-COVID-19 stroke patients, 20 COVID-19 and 30 healthy donors (HD) were analyzed for anti-cardiolipin, anti-β2-GPI, anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin and anti-vimentin/CL antibodies by ELISA. Platelets from healthy donors were incubated with Ig fractions from these patients or with polyclonal anti-β2-GPI IgG and analyzed for phospho-ERK and phospho-p38 by western blot. Platelet secretion by ATP release dosage was also evaluated.

Results

We demonstrated the presence of aPLs IgG in sera of patients with AIS during COVID-19. Treatment with the Ig fractions from these patients or with polyclonal anti-β2-GPI IgG induced a significant increase of phospho-ERK and phospho-p38 expression. In the same vein, platelet activation was supported by the increase of adenyl nucleotides release induced by Ig fractions.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the presence of aPLs in a subgroup of COVID-19 patients who presented AIS, suggesting a role in the mechanisms contributing to hypercoagulable state in these patients. Detecting these antibodies as a serological marker to check and monitor COVID-19 may contribute to improve the risk stratification of thromboembolic manifestations in these patients.
Sensitive and rapid detection of Culex pipiens and Aedes albopictus
Authors: Wei Xiao , Meng Biao , Li Yan , Peng Hong , Zhao Xiangna
Published: March 2023

Background

Culex pipiens and Aedes albopictus are closely related to human life, and transmit a variety of viruses, causing serious harm to human health. Cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene has been selected as a marker gene for studying phylogeny and molecular evolution of species and is also an effective molecular marker for studying the evolutionary mechanism and systematic reconstruction of diptera insects.

Methods

A loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for the rapid and sensitive detection of Cx. pipiens and Ae. albopictus were first described in this study. The experimental results were verified by real-time PCR.

Results

Our study showed the lower limit of sample concentration that can be detected by LAMP method is 0.5 pg/μl within 20 min for Cx. pipiens, and 1 pg/μl within 20 min for Ae. albopictus, which were more sensitive than PCR method. Validation tests with field samples showed LAMP method had good specificity and sensitivity and could identify the target species quickly and accurately.

Conclusion

The LAMP method developed in this study allowed the rapid and sensitive detection of Cx. pipiens and Ae. albopictus, which will be expected to be used for mass screening in batches of the field.
Dislocation-driven growth of WS2/WSe2 quantum well superlattices
Authors: Yang Hang , Zeng Li , Huang Ziwei , Zhang Tian , Zhang Shunhui , Zhang Xuyang , Ao Zhikang , Lan Xiang , Zhang Baihui
Published: March 2023

The synthesis of two-dimensional lateral heterojunctions with nanoscale characteristic width and sharp interfaces remains challenging. The quantum confinement effects are still difficult to create on 2D materials since widths smaller than 5 nm are necessary for quantum confinement effects and quantum well applications. In this study, we demonstrated the growth of a sub-2-nm tungsten sulfide quantum well array in a monolayer of tungsten selenide, driven by the climb of mismatch dislocation in a heterointerface due to the lattice mismatch. Width-controllable 2D quantum well superlattices are theoretically formed by the mismatch dislocation-driven growth mechanism, according to our analysis. Thus, abundant photonic electronic properties can be obtained in 2D quantum well superlattices formed at varied lateral heterointerfaces, which will support the study of topological insulators and superconductors.
Case report: Post-thoracoscopy pendelluft monitoring
Authors: Xiao Zhibin , Zhang Na , Zhang Xiajing , Lu Wenjun , Gao Changjun , Sun Xude
Published: March 2023

Asynchronous alveolar ventilation is called pendelluft, which may induce lung injury in spontaneously breathing patients. We report a case that electrical impedance tomography (EIT) was used to assess the pendelluft in a post-thoracoscopy patient. The pendelluft amplitude was as high as 77.5% of the tidal variation. The average regional time shift was 0.5 s. The patient was instructed to adjust the breathing method, symptomatic treatment was performed, and the symptoms were improved. This is the first case reporting pendelluft in a post-thoracoscopy patient. Our case demonstrated that (1) pendelluft may occur in post-thoracoscopy patients and it effects lung function, and (2) early identification of affected patients and implementation of corresponding treatments could improve patient outcomes.
Hepatitis B virus and hepatitis D virus infection in women with or at risk for HIV infection in the United States
Authors: Argirion Ilona , Mahale Parag , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Liu Ping , Adimora Adaora A. , Akiyama Matthew J. , Bolivar Hector H. , French Audrey , Plankey Michael , Price Jennifer C. , Rana Aadia , Sheth Anandi , Koshiol Jill , Seaberg Eric C. , Kuniholm Mark H. , Glenn Jeffrey , O’Brien Thomas R.
Published: March 2023

Hepatitis D virus (HDV) requires co-infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) shares transmission routes with these viruses. Among 4,932 US women infected with or at-risk for HIV during 1994–2015, HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity was more common in women with HIV (2.8% vs. 1.2%; p = 0.001); HDV was more common among participants enrolled during 2013–2015 (p = 0.0004) and those with resolved rather than active hepatitis C (1.9% vs. 0.5%; p = 0.02). Among HBsAg-positive women (n = 117), HDV antibody prevalence was 22% and did not vary by HIV status; HDV infection was associated with the presence of advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis at enrollment (adjusted odds ratio, 5.70; 95% confidence interval, 1.46–22.29). Our results demonstrate the importance of HDV testing in HBV-infected US women.
Impact of COVID-19 on inpatient care related to skin conditions
Authors: Kalanj Karolina , Orbanić Ante , Peček Mirta , Orešković Stjepan , Marshall Rick , Šitum Mirna
Published: March 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected our society and healthcare system. This study aims to evaluate the effects of COVID-19 on the number of hospitalized patients with dermatological diseases in Croatia, as well as the number of these patients treated surgically and conservatively, before (2017–2019) and during the pandemic (2020–2021).

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective, comparative study of the hospital admission rate for patients with skin, subcutaneous tissue, and breast disorders both before and during the pandemic. This study used data from the Croatian Institute of Public Health (CIPH) and the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (CHIF). Inpatient data for the CHIF data collection were categorized using the Australian Refined Diagnosis Related Groups (AR-DRGs). All hospital admissions for dermatology patients at all non-specialized hospitals in Croatia were tracked during two periods, before (2017–2019) and during the pandemic (2020–2021).

Results

The average number of dermatology patients in all hospitals fell by 29% during the pandemic. The overall number of dermatological patients admitted to hospitals fell by 32% in 2020 and by 26% in 2021 when compared to the number of patients admitted each year on average over the preceding 3 years. Additionally, there was an average 22% fall in surgical procedures performed during the pandemic. The only exception for surgical procedures is Major Breast Reconstruction for which is noted an increase, as also for Malignant Breast Disorders, Minor Complexity and Major Skin Disorders, Minor Complexity in a group of non-surgically treated patients.

Conclusion

Examining the all consequences of the Croatian dermatological patient care interruption will require more investigation. Reduced access to medical care during the pandemic is anticipated to lead to later illness diagnosis, a later start to treatment, a poorer disease prognosis, as well as higher medical expenditures.