bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear motifs regulating protein secretion, sorting and autophagy in Leishmania parasites are diverged with respect to their host equivalents
Authors: Zeke Andras , Gibson Toby J. , Dobson Laszlo
Published: February 2024

The pathogenic, tropical Leishmania flagellates belong to an early-branching eukaryotic lineage (Kinetoplastida) with several unique features. Unfortunately, they are poorly understood from a molecular biology perspective, making development of mechanistically novel and selective drugs difficult. Here, we explore three functionally critical targeting short linear motif systems as well as their receptors in depth, using a combination of structural modeling, evolutionary sequence divergence and deep learning. Secretory signal peptides, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention motifs (KDEL motifs), and autophagy signals (motifs interacting with ATG8 family members) are ancient and essential components of cellular life. Although expected to be conserved amongst the kinetoplastids, we observe that all three systems show a varying degree of divergence from their better studied equivalents in animals, plants, or fungi. We not only describe their behaviour, but also build models that allow the prediction of localization and potential functions for several uncharacterized Leishmania proteins. The unusually Ala/Val-rich secretory signal peptides, endoplasmic reticulum resident proteins ending in Asp-Leu-COOH and atypical ATG8-like proteins are all unique molecular features of kinetoplastid parasites. Several of their critical protein-protein interactions could serve as targets of selective antimicrobial agents against Leishmaniasis due to their systematic divergence from the host.
Gametic selection favours polyandry and selfing
Authors: Scott Michael Francis , Mackintosh Carl , Immler Simone
Published: February 2024

Competition among pollen or sperm (gametic selection) can cause evolution. Mating systems shape the intensity of gametic selection by determining the competitors involved, which can in turn cause the mating system itself to evolve. We model the bidirectional relationship between gametic selection and mating systems, focusing on variation in female mating frequency (monandry-polyandry) and self-fertilisation (selfing-outcrossing). First, we find that monandry and selfing both reduce the efficiency of gametic selection in removing deleterious alleles. This means that selfing can increase mutation load, in contrast to cases without gametic selection where selfing purges deleterious mutations and decreases mutation load. Second, we explore how mating systems evolve via their effect on gametic selection. By manipulating gametic selection, polyandry can evolve to increase the fitness of the offspring produced. However, this indirect advantage of post-copulatory sexual selection is weak and is likely to be overwhelmed by any direct fitness effects of mating systems. Nevertheless, gametic selection can be potentially decisive for selfing evolution because it significantly reduces inbreeding depression, which favours selfing. Thus, the presence of gametic selection could be a key factor driving selfing evolution.
Prior uncertainty impedes discrete locomotor adaptation
Authors: Jiang Aojun , Grover Francis M. , Bucklin Mary , Deol Jasjit , Shafer Anna , Gordon Keith E.
Published: February 2024

The impact of environmental uncertainty on locomotor adaptation remains unclear. Environmental uncertainty could either aid locomotor adaptation by prompting protective control strategies that stabilize movements to assist learning or impede adaptation by reducing error sensitivity and fostering hesitance to pursue corrective movements. To explore this, we investigated participants’ adaptation to a consistent force field after experiencing environmental uncertainty in the form of unpredictable balance perturbations. We compared the performance of this group (Perturbation) to the adaptive performance of a group that did not experience any unpredictable perturbations (Non-Perturbation). Perturbations were delivered using a cable-driven robotic device applying lateral forces to the pelvis. We assessed whole-body center of mass (COM) trajectory (COM signed deviation), anticipatory postural adjustments (COM lateral offset), and first step width. The Perturbation group exhibited larger disruptions in COM trajectory (greater COM signed deviations) than the Non-Perturbation group when first walking in the force field. While the COM signed deviations of both groups decreased towards baseline values, only the Non-Perturbation group returned to baseline levels. The Perturbation groups COM signed deviations remained higher, indicating they failed to fully adapt to the force field before the end. The Perturbation group also did not adapt their COM lateral offset to counter the predictable effects of the force field as the Non-Perturbation group did, and their first step width increased more slowly. Our findings suggest that exposure to unpredictable perturbations impeded future sensorimotor adaptations to consistent perturbations.
Evaluating source credibility effects in health labelling using vending machines in a hospital setting
Authors: Griffiths Melda , Boivin Jacky , Powell Eryl , Bott Lewis
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Providing advice to consumers in the form of labelling may mitigate the increased availability and low cost of foods that contribute to the obesity problem. Our objective was to test whether making the source of the health advice on the label more credible makes labelling more effective.

Methods and measures

Vending machines in different locations were stocked with healthy and unhealthy products in a hospital. Healthy products were randomly assigned to one of three conditions (i) a control condition in which no labelling was present (ii) a low source credibility label, “Lighter choices”, and (iii) a high source credibility label that included the UK National Health Service (NHS) logo and name, “NHS lighter choices”. Unhealthy products received no labelling. The outcome measure was sales volume.

Results

There were no main effects of labelling. However, there were significant interactions between labelling, vending machine location and payment type. For one location and payment type, sales of products increased in the high credibility label condition compared to control, particularly for unhealthy products, contrary to expectations.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that high source credibility health labels (NHS endorsement) on food either have little effect, or worse, can “backfire” and lead to effects opposite to those intended. The primary limitations are the limited range of source credibility labels and the scale of the study.
Spatial stratified heterogeneity analysis of field scale permafrost in Northeast China based on optimal parameters-based geographical detector
Authors: Guo Ying , Liu Shuai , Qiu Lisha , Zhang Chengcheng , Shan Wei
Published: February 2024

Affected by global warming, the permafrost in Northeast China (NEC) has been continuously degrading in recent years. Many researchers have focused on the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of permafrost in NEC, however, few studies have delved into the field scale. In this study, based on the Optimal Parameters-based Geographical Detector (OPGD) model and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) test, the spatial stratified heterogeneity of permafrost distribution and the indicating performance of environmental variables on permafrost in NEC at the field scale were analyzed. Permafrost spatial distribution data were obtained from the Engineering Geological Investigation Reports (EGIR) of six highways located in NEC and a total of 19 environmental variables related to heat transfer, vegetation, soil, topography, moisture, and ecology were selected. The H-factors (variables with the highest contribution in factor detector results and interaction detector results): slope position (γ), surface frost number (SFN), elevation (DEM), topographic diversity (TD), and annual snow cover days (ASCD) were found to be the major contributors to the distribution of permafrost at the field scale. Among them, γ has the highest contribution and is a special explanatory variable for permafrost. In most cases, interaction can improve the impact of variables, especially the interaction between H-factors. The risk of permafrost decreases with the increase of TD, RN, and SBD, and increases with the increase of SFN. The performance of SFN to indicate permafrost distribution was found to be the best among all variables (AUC = 0.7063). There is spatial heterogeneity in the distribution of permafrost on highways in different spatial locations. This study summarized the numerical and spatial location between permafrost and different environmental variables at the field scale, and many results were found to be informative for environmental studies and engineering construction in NEC.
Mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic and first lockdown in Lebanon: Risk factors and daily life difficulties in a multiple-crises setting
Authors: Elbejjani Martine , Mansour Sara , Hammoud Rawan A. , Ziade Catrina , Assi Batoul , Assi Ahmad , El Sayed Samya , El Hachem Rita , Kerbage Hala
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Research from around the world shows important differences in the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns on mental health. This study examined the extent of mental health challenges (depressive and anxiety symptoms and daily life difficulties) and their associations with pandemic- and response-related factors during the first lockdown in Lebanon, which happened amid a severe economic crisis and socio-political turmoil.

Methods

Data come from a cross-sectional internet-based survey (May-June 2020). Association of depressive (Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)) and anxiety symptoms (Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7)) with outbreak-related worries and knowledge, information sources, and confidence and satisfaction in response measures were estimated using logistic regression adjusted for sociodemographic and socioeconomic indicators.

Results

Among 510 participants (mean age 36.1±11.3; 69.4% women), 32.3% had elevated depressive and 27.3% had elevated anxiety symptoms; younger age, unemployment, loss of employment, and lower income were related to more mental health symptoms. Most prevalent daily life challenges were feelings of uncertainty (74.5%) and financial (52.2%) and emotional (42.2%) difficulties; these and all other daily life difficulties (work-related, caregiving, and online learning) were significantly higher among participants with higher depressive and anxiety symptoms. Higher outbreak-related worries were associated with higher depressive (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.20,1.53) and anxiety symptoms (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.30,1.67). Higher pandemic-related knowledge, reliance on and trust in local health agencies and professionals’ information, and satisfaction and confidence regarding governmental and health institutions’ response were all related to lower mental health symptoms.

Conclusion

Results show that mental health burden in Lebanon during the first lockdown (when the COVID-19 outbreak was still minimal) is among the highest reported worldwide and highlight elevated emotional and financial tolls and widespread impact on daily life. In this high-burden and multiple-challenges context, results suggest an important role for the healthcare body, knowledge, and trust in the institutions managing the response.
Analysis of coping capacities and cognitive biases of novice drivers—A questionnaire-based study
Authors: Xiang Wang , Zhang Yonghe , Pan Xin , Liu Xuemei , Xu Guiqiu
Published: February 2024

Coping capacity is a key aspect of driver-vehicle interaction when drivers observe and make decisions, and is of great importance for drivers. However, different drivers have different self-cognition and assess their driving abilities differently, especially for novice drivers. Based on questionnaire data, this study has investigated the coping capacities of drivers in both static environments and dynamic environments. With the ANOVA analysis method and the structural equation model (SEM), this study has verified the effects of gender and driving factors (driving years, driving frequency, driving time) on drivers’ coping capacities based on drivers’ self-assessment scores and mutual assessment scores. Drivers’ self-assessment scores show significant effects of all factors on drivers’ coping capacities, and drivers’ mutual assessment scores show significant effects of all factors, excluding driving time, on drivers’ coping capacities. Also, it has been found that all drivers in the driving year group have cognitive biases. It seems that first-year drivers are always overconfident with their driving skills, while drivers with a driving experience of more than three years usually score driving skills of themselves and other drivers most conservatively. With increased exposure to various traffic conditions, experienced drivers are more aware of their limitations in dealing with complex traffic situations, while novice drivers do not know their lack of capability to properly respond to any unexpected situation they could encounter.
Keystone pathobionts associated with colorectal cancer promote oncogenic reprograming
Authors: Jones Josh , Shi Qiaojuan , Nath Rahul R. , Brito Ilana L.
Published: February 2024

Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) and enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF) are two pathobionts consistently enriched in the gut microbiomes of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to healthy counterparts and frequently observed for their direct association within tumors. Although several molecular mechanisms have been identified that directly link these organisms to features of CRC in specific cell types, their specific effects on the epithelium and local immune compartment are not well-understood. To fill this gap, we leveraged single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on wildtype mice and mouse model of CRC. We find that Fn and ETBF exacerbate cancer-like transcriptional phenotypes in transit-amplifying and mature enterocytes in a mouse model of CRC. We also observed increased T cells in the pathobiont-exposed mice, but these pathobiont-specific differences observed in wildtype mice were abrogated in the mouse model of CRC. Although there are similarities in the responses provoked by each organism, we find pathobiont-specific effects in Myc-signaling and fatty acid metabolism. These findings support a role for Fn and ETBF in potentiating tumorigenesis via the induction of a cancer stem cell-like transit-amplifying and enterocyte population and the disruption of CTL cytotoxic function.
Cost-effectiveness of tirofiban for acute ischemic stroke without large or medium-sized vessel occlusion: A Markov modelling analysis from the Chinese and United States perspectives
Authors: Wang Li , Zeng Yuhong , Zhou Limei , Xu Ping , Guo Xianbin , Xie Yu , Cai Junxiu , Pan Min , Tang Jie , Gong Qingtao , Su Rong , Liu Yan , Lou Yake
Published: February 2024

Background

The RESCUE BT2 trial recently showcased the efficacy of tirofiban in treating acute ischemic stroke (AIS) without large or medium-sized vessel occlusion. To further assess the value of tirofiban from the perspectives of Chinese and US healthcare system, a study was conducted to evaluate its cost-effectiveness.

Methods

A hybrid model, integrating a short-term decision tree with a long-term Markov model, was developed to assess cost-effectiveness between tirofiban and aspirin for stroke patients without large or medium-sized vessel occlusion. Efficacy data for tirofiban was sourced from the RESCUE BT2 trial, while cost information was derived from published papers. Outcomes measured included respective cost, effectiveness, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). We conducted a one-way sensitivity analysis to assess the robustness of the results. Additionally, we performed probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) through 10,000 Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the uncertainties associated with the results.

Results

The study revealed that tirofiban treatment in AIS patients without large or medium-sized vessel occlusion led to a considerable reduction of 2141 Chinese Yuan (CNY) in total cost, along with a lifetime gain of 0.14 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). In the US settings, tirofiban also exhibited a lower cost ($197,055 versus $201,984) and higher effectiveness (4.15 QALYs versus 4.06 QALYs) compared to aspirin. One-way sensitivity analysis revealed that post-stroke care costs and stroke utility had the greatest impact on ICER fluctuation in both Chinese and US settings. However, these variations did not exceed the willingness-to-pay threshold. PSA demonstrated tirofiban’s superior acceptability over aspirin in over 95% of potential scenarios.

Conclusion

Tirofiban treatment for AIS without large or medium-sized vessel occlusion appeared dominant compared to aspirin in both China and the US.
Socioeconomic status and adiposity in childhood cancer survivors: A cross-sectional retrospective study
Authors: Štrublová Lucie , Kepák Tomáš , Kuruczová Daniela , Zlámal Filip , Holíková Marta , Kepáková Kateřina , Štěrba Jaroslav , Bienertová-Vašků Julie
Published: February 2024

This is a retrospective cross-sectional study examining the association between unemployment, cancer type, treatment and total body fat percentage of childhood cancer survivors recruited at St. Anne’s University Hospital in Brno, Czech Republic. A total of 55 survivors aged 18–49 who were in remission of cancer and fulfilled the criteria for body composition measurements by the BIA and completed questionnaires investigating their socioeconomic status, employment status, and history. There was a significant relationship between the employment status and central nervous system-directed treatment (c2(1) = 7.53, p = 0.006, Cramér’s V = 0.38) and between the type of cancer and employment status (c2(3) = 7.83, p = 0.049, Cramér’s V = 0.38), the highest unemployment rate was recorded for brain and spine survivors (72.7%) compared to survivors with other diagnosis (35.7%) (uLR(1) = 4.91, p = 0.027; OR = 4.80, 95% CI:1.10–20.86, p = 0.036); these survivors did not have a significantly different body fat percentage compared to survivors with other diagnoses (t(53) = 1.29, p = 0.202, Cohen’s d = 0.41) Interestingly, the survivors reporting having a partner also had a significantly higher percentage of body fat (t(53) = 2.90, p = 0.005, Cohen’s d = 0.81). A linear regression model was used to model the percentage of body fat in relation to a set of selected variables and the we observed a significant effect of sex (female vs male: b = 6.37, 95% CI: 1.82–10.93, p = 0.007), partnership status (yes vs no: b = 5.65, 95% CI: 0.67–10.62, p = 0.027) and category of diagnosis (Brain and spinal column tumors vs Other solid tumors: b = 12.40, 95% CI: 0.59–24.21, p = 0.040; Brain and spinal column tumors vs Lymphoma: b = 14.02, 95% CI: 2.06–25.97, p = 0.023). Employment status and risk of adiposity in childhood cancer survivors depends on the type of treatment and diagnosis group, which may significantly impact their lifestyle and overall quality of life after treatment.

Trial registration: This study was registered on July 29, 2022, at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05481229).
Does the openness of the Boundary Shell system influence the sustainable development of the high-tech industry?
Authors: Shi Yiming , Tan Qingmei , Liu Zhi , Yang Ge , Zhang Min
Published: February 2024

High-technology industries have gained substantial recognition as pivotal drivers of economic growth and technological advancement in modern society. The imperative of sustainable development in high-tech industries cannot be overemphasized, as it plays a crucial role in enabling long-term growth, fostering innovation, and assuming environmental responsibility. This article presents a study on sustainable development in high-tech industries using Boundary Shell theory. The study investigates the role of the stable and sustainable entropy criterion for the Boundary Shell system of high-tech industries from an entropy balance perspective. It analyzes the upper and lower limits of the Boundary Shell support force. Additionally, it improves the traditional boundary system ratio model to comprehensively and objectively evaluate the sustainable development of high-tech industries. The results illustrate that the Boundary Shell of industrial innovation is stronger than that of external dependency, with a reversed ranking of internal evaluation factor strengths compared to the traditional model. This research integrates reaction-diffusion equations theory with entropy balance equations theory to address sustainability issues in the high-tech industry. We further analyze the sustainable development of the high-tech industry through a Boundary Shell theory perspective to advance sustainability in high-tech industries. Moreover, it provides useful insights into the sustainable development of high-tech industries.
Data-driven mathematical simulation analysis of emergency evacuation time in smart station’s operations management
Authors: Hui Yang , Yu Qiang , Peng Hui
Published: February 2024

This research establishes an emergency evacuation time model specifically designed for subway stations with complex structures. The model takes into account multiple factors, including passenger flow rate, subway facility parameters, and crowd density, to accurately assess evacuation times. It considers the impact of horizontal walking distance, flow rate, subway train size, and stair parameters on the overall evacuation process. By identifying bottleneck points such as gates, car doors, and stairs, the model facilitates the evaluation of evacuation capacity and the formulation of effective evacuation plans, particularly in multiline subway transfer stations. The good consistency is achieved between the calculated evacuation time and simulated results using the Pathfinder software (with the relative error of 5.4%). To address urban traffic congestion and enhance subway station safety, the study recommends implemented measures for emergency diversion and passenger flow control. Additionally, the research presents characteristic mathematical models for various evacuation routes by considering the structural and temporal characteristics of metro systems. These models provide valuable guidance for conducting large-scale passenger evacuation simulations in complex environments. Future research can further enhance the model by incorporating psychological factors, evacuation signage, and strategies for vulnerable populations. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of evacuation dynamics and provides practical insights to improve safety and efficiency in subway systems.
Santa Muerte: The most fashionable saint of the year
Authors: Kaleta Karolina I.
Published: February 2024

This article presents and analyses the relation between the cult of a Mexican folk saint, Santa Muerte (Saint Death), and fashion. The article describes the unique phenomenon and its complex history as an amalgamation of Christian and pre-Hispanic elements. Even with the cult’s growing recognition, Santa Muerte is still surrounded by controversies – lack of academic research and stereotypes presented by media and popular culture lead to numerous discrepancies such as erroneous image of the followers of Santa Muerte who are often depicted as criminals related to drug smuggling. The main part of the article focuses on the practices of building and decorating the altars, shrines and chapels for Santa Muerte. The text also highlights a spreading custom of designing various types of dresses and robes for the figures of the patron and the practice of modifying the figures themselves (adding ornaments, artefacts and various items). Some of these items and ornaments express the intentions of the prayers, holidays and individual preferences of the worshippers. Following sections present the impact of the cult of Santa Muerte (especially its aesthetical dimension) on the fashion industry, which is visible in the example of jewellery and clothing. The article concludes with an exploration of trends among the followers of Santa Muerte and their impact on the esoteric industry that is wide and rapidly developing in Mexico.
Renová Tu Vestidor: Second-hand online clothing retail as an extension of domestic labour and as resistance practices in Argentina between 2016 and 2018
Authors: Nannini Victoria
Published: February 2024

The aim of this article is to look into some fashion consumption practices that manifest resistance at the micro social level and which occur through one specific virtual platform from Argentina, Renová Tu Vestidor (renovatuvestidor.com). The resistance mentioned here seeks to overcome market prices during the period concerning 2016 and 2018, as well as to find brand items and other affordable stylish garments and simultaneously generate extra income. Therefore, resistant practices through online shopping are linked to the need of managing the household economy in a time of national (and global) crisis, without neglecting the pleasure that fashion consumption provides (visiting virtual stores and shopping online), as well as avoiding the loss of class status and, last but not least, evincing an unconscious extension of domestic labour. This article will specifically address the relationships some women maintain between fashion consumption as resistant practices in virtual platforms that trade with second-hand clothes, and formal occupations, leisure, pleasure and an extension of domestic labour.
Desarrollo del pensamiento complejo en la formación empresarial: un enfoque de género
Authors: Alonso-Galicia Patricia Esther , Vázquez-Parra José Carlos , Castillo-Martínez Isolda Margarita , Ramírez-Montoya María Soledad
Published: February 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es aproximarse a la percepción de los estudiantes sobre el dominio de la competencia razonamiento para la complejidad y sus subcompetencias (pensamiento científico, sistémico y crítico) en un grupo muestra de una universidad latinoamericana. La intención fue identificar si existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas en una población de hombres y mujeres en un programa de formación en emprendimiento, evaluando si el género podría ser un factor a considerar por las instituciones educativas que ofrecen estas especialidades. El presente estudio exploratorio se basa en la aplicación del instrumento validado E-Complejidad para medir la percepción de una muestra de conveniencia de 116 estudiantes de una universidad privada en México. Estadísticamente, se calculó la media general y las medias de cada ítem para la percepción de los estudiantes sobre su dominio de la competencia razonamiento para la complejidad. A partir de los resultados, podemos confirmar que no existen evidencias estadísticamente significativas que demuestren diferencias entre hombres y mujeres en sus niveles percibidos de dominio de la competencia de razonamiento complejo en general. Sin embargo, el análisis de los resultados por subcompetencias muestra una tendencia de las mujeres a tener una percepción superior a la de sus homólogos masculinos. Así, este artículo muestra la necesidad de desarrollar entornos más allá de lo académico y lo teórico, que garanticen un seguimiento real de la noción de igualdad promovida en las instituciones educativas.
Szisztematikus szakirodalmi kutatás a hübrisz mint vezetői jelenség témakörében
Authors: Mármarosi András , Németh Gergely
Published: February 2024

A hübrisztikus vezetés jelenségével egyre gyakrabban találkoztak a szerzők mind szervezetfejlesztőként, mind akadémiai szakemberként. A következő kérdések foglalkoztatták őket a témával kapcsolatban: hogyan lép erre az útra a vezetővé választott személy és hogyan alakul ki a hübrisz? A környezete hogyan reagál erre a fejlődési folyamatra? Mik a potenciális hasznai a hübrisztikus vezetésnek egy szervezetben és mi az árnyoldala? Mi a viszonya a szervezettel, vagy a menedzsmentcsapattal? Nem utolsó sorban, hogyan lehetne megelőzni a kialakulását, vagy legalább megfékezni, ha már kialakult? A válaszok keresése érdekében szisztematikus szakirodalmi kutatást hajtottak végre. A tanulmányok tartalmi elemzése alapján, metaösszesítési módszerrel hoztak létre belőlük egy problématérképet. Ennek eredményeképpen négy nagyobb terület rajzolódott ki. A négy terület részletesebb elemzése alapján nagyobb részt válaszokat kaptak eredeti kérdéseikre, illetve sikerült további kutatási irányokat azonosítaniuk.
Cytokine Release Syndrome–Associated Colitis: Insights From a Case of Rituximab-Induced Pancolitis
Authors: Vikash Fnu , Vikash Sindhu , Mintz Michael , Elshafey Suzanne , Kim Daniel , Wan David
Published: February 2024

Rituximab (RTX), a widely used monoclonal antibody for hematologic malignancies and rheumatologic disorders, is known for infusion-related reactions. However, its potential to induce colitis is often overlooked. We present an 85-year-old woman with chronic lymphocytic leukemia experiencing severe adverse effects during her fourth RTX infusion, including abdominal pain, hypotension, and bright red blood per rectum. Computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast revealed pancolonic mural wall thickening without perforation. Prompt treatment with vasopressors and intravenous fluids led to symptom resolution within 24 hours. We highlighted the importance of recognizing RTX-induced colitis and discussed and depicted immunological dysregulation mechanisms involved.
Differences in Mucosal Permeability Among Patients With Ulcerative Colitis Classified Based on the Colonic Location and Disease Activity
Authors: Shiratori Wataru , Ohta Yuki , Matsusaka Keisuke , Ohyama Yuhei , Mamiya Yukiyo , Nakazawa Hayato , Takahashi Satsuki , Horio Ryosuke , Goto Chihiro , Sonoda Michiko , Kurosugi Akane , Kaneko Tatsuya , Akizue Naoki , Ishigami Hideaki , Taida Takashi , Okimoto Kenichiro , Saito Keiko , Matsumura Tomoaki , Shiko Yuki , Ozawa Yoshihito , Kato Jun , Ikeda Junichiro , Kato Naoya
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Factors affecting mucosal permeability (MP) in ulcerative colitis (UC) are largely unknown. We aimed to investigate the difference in MP among patients with UC classified according to the colonic locations and to evaluate the correlations between local MP and endoscopic or histological activity of UC.

METHODS:

The transepithelial electrical resistance (TER), which is inversely proportional to permeability, of tissue samples from the mucosa of the ascending colon, descending colon, and rectum of patients with UC and healthy individuals (HIs) was measured by using the Ussing chamber. TERs were compared between patients with UC and HIs and evaluated according to colonic locations and disease activity of UC.

RESULTS:

Thirty-eight patients with UC and 12 HIs were included in this study. Both in HIs and patients with UC, MP tends to be higher in the anal side. TER in the ascending colon was significantly lower in patients with UC than in HIs (45.3 ± 9.0 Ω × cm2 vs 53.5 ± 9.7 Ω × cm2, P = 0.01). The increased permeability in UC was observed also in the descending colon, only when the inflammation involved the location. A significant correlation between TER and endoscopic activity was found in the rectum only (r = −0.49, P = 0.002). There were no significant correlations between TERs and UC histology.

DISCUSSION:

The MP in the colon differs according to the colonic location. The ascending colon among patients with UC showed disease-specific changes in MP, whereas the MP is increased in proportion to the endoscopic activity in the rectum.
Studi Substansi Artikel dalam Jurnal Golden Age: Langkah Menuju Akreditasi SINTA Peringkat 2
Authors: Suismanto  , Muhammad Abdul Latif
Published: February 2024

Tujuan dari studi ini adalah untuk memahami bagaimana peningkatan kualitas substansi artikel dapat berkontribusi terhadap pengembangan jurnal Golden Age UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta dalam rangka menuju akreditasi peringkat dua. Studi ini dilakukan melalui pendekatan kualitatif, dengan sumber data utama berupa dokumen/arsip jurnal bereputasi nasional (SINTA 2) dan wawancara semi-terstruktur dengan pengelola jurnal tersebut. Observasi partisipatif pasif, semi-wawancara, dan dokumentasi digunakan sebagai metode pengumpulan data. Analisis data dilakukan menggunakan code-based analysis dan case-based analysis dalam Qualitative Data-Mining (QDM). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa jurnal Golden Age telah berhasil melakukan peningkatan substansi artikel dalam satu tahun terakhir, dengan fokus pada aspek-aspek seperti orisinalitas, penulisan, dan penggunaan referensi. penelitian menunjukkan bahwa jurnal golden age UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta dalam satu tahun cukup baik. Jurnal golden age telah menyusun pedoman untuk mengkaji artikel, dan meningkatkan kualitas substansi artikel golden journal mengacu pada kriteria, yaitu: orisinalitas, plagiarisme, judul, abstrak, kata kunci, pendahuluan, metode, hasil penelitian, pembahasan, kesimpulan, dan daftar pustaka. Temuan ini berpotensi mempengaruhi praktik penulisan dan pengelolaan jurnal di masa depan, dan berkontribusi pada pengetahuan tentang bagaimana membangun jurnal bereputasi nasional yang dapat memperkaya bidang Pendidikan Islam Anak Usia Dini (PIAUD).
Islamic Boarding School Management: A Comprehensive Analysis of a Special Program for Fostering Students' Disciplinary Character in Madrasah Ibtidaiyah
Authors: Hidayat Wahyu , Hidayat Nur
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the role of Islamic Boarding School Management in fostering disciplined character among students at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI) Al Ma'had An-Nur, utilizing a qualitative, descriptive approach. Data collection involved interviews, observations, and documentation, focusing on the disciplinary program's planning, implementation, and evaluation stages. The research highlights the Islamic Boarding School as a critical environment for continuous supervision and character development, embedding Quranic values in everyday life. The process involves three educational pillars: madrasah, family, and community, with learning experiences shaped through exemplary behavior and habituation. The study's findings show that at MI Al Ma'had An-Nur, disciplinary character development is executed through structured phases, incorporating goal setting, program implementation, continuous support, and rigorous evaluation. The school's approach integrates religious, educational, and communal elements, making it a powerful model for Islamic education. However, the study's focus on a single institution and reliance on qualitative data suggest broader research, including comparative studies and quantitative methods, to deepen understanding of Islamic Boarding School practices. The research serves as a reference for other Islamic schools in developing character development programs and contributes to the broader field of Islamic education.
Implementation and Reinforcement of Religious Moderation Attitudes Among Students at Lempuyangwangi Public Elementary School, Yogyakarta
Authors: Suratin Sonia Isna , Lestari Rizqi , Sabarudin Sabarudin
Published: February 2024

This study adopts a qualitative case study approach to explore implementing and reinforcing religious moderation attitudes among students at Lempuyangwangi Public Elementary School in Yogyakarta. Through observation, interviews, documentation review, and literature analysis, the research delves into the perceptions and experiences of teachers, the principal, and students concerning religious moderation. Utilizing the Miles and Huberman model for data analysis and employing strategies such as triangulation and member checking for reliability and validity, the study unveils a comprehensive view of religious moderation education across diverse religious practices. Results highlight the school's commitment to fostering tolerance and understanding through the principles of honesty, openness, compassion, flexibility, and respect among its multi-religious student body. The study identifies the school's unique approach to religious education, emphasizing the essential role of educational settings in promoting a harmonious society. While acknowledging limitations in scope, the research underscores the need for further investigation into the longitudinal impacts of such educational practices. It suggests a collaborative model involving educators, parents, and the community in expanding religious moderation education. This case study not only enriches the academic discourse on religious moderation but also offers valuable insights for developing inclusive educational frameworks that support Indonesia's diverse identity.
Role of plant growth promoting fungi and doses of chemical fertilizers in improving agronomic response for sustainable wheat crop production
Authors: AL-Taie Azher Hameed , Al-Zubaidi Noor Khadhum , Matrood Abdulnabi Abdul Ameer , Rhouma Abdelhak
Published: February 2024

Plant growth promoting fungi PGPF is considered a major biological technique that results in significant plant growth and yield. Use of high doses of chemical fertilizers increased cost of crop production and environmental pollution. PGPF could be a reliable alternative to reduce application of agrochemicals such as chemical fertilizers in modern agriculture. The present study evaluated the role of these fungi with chemical fertilizer of DAP applied through different doses in agronomic response of production of 2 varieties of Wheat (Ibaa99 and Rasheed) at 2 agricultural seasons 2019-2020-2021. Field plots conducted during 2019-2020 cropping season, to evaluate the role of adding fungal isolate called PGPF-AT with doses of DAP were (0, 50 and 100%) in 0, 120 and 240 Kg ha-1 respectively, compared with (Commercial Biofertilizer) called Natrusoil as positive control on wheat var. Ibaa99 to improve growth and yield attributes. The study was repeated in the 2020-2021 cropping seasons with var. Rasheed (to discover a variety of effects and confirm results). The results revealed that treatment PGPF-AT was exerted a highly significant increase without differences between doses of DAP 120, and 240 Kg ha-1 compared to untreated plots for both Ibaa 99 and Rasheed varieties attributes: no. of plants m-2, plant height (cm), plant dry weight (g), no. of tillers plant-1, no. of spike plant-1, spike length (cm), spike weight (g), no. of seeds spike-1, weight of 100 grain (g) and grain yield Kg m-2 in addition to fertilizer use efficiency (Kg Kg-1) in both cropping seasons.
Quantitative phytochemical, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of the seeds of Lawsonia inermis L.
Authors: Moutawalli Amina , Benkhouili Fatima Zahra , Ouchari Lahcen , El Fahime Elmostafa , Benzeid Hanane , Doukkali Anass , Zahidi Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Lawsonia inermis, commonly known as Henna, is a plant that has been extensively utilized throughout the ages for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. This plant contains a variety of bioactive compounds and has attracted significant interest due to its potential antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The aim of our study is to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and antibacterial activity of Lawsonia inermis seeds. L. inermis seed powder was extracted using hexane, dichloromethane, ethanol and water. The 4 fractions were quantified for polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins contents. The antioxidant capacity was assessed using 4 methods: 2,2?-Diphenyl- picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) , 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) (ABTS), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and Phosphomolybdate assay (PMA). Antimicrobial activity was determined by agar diffusion against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. The liquid dilution method was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration. The highest content of polyphenols and tannins was obtained in the ethanolic fraction, with values of 594.01±6.07 mg GAE/g dw and 242.4±1.6 mg CE/g dw respectively. The ethanolic fraction exhibited significant scavenging of free radicals (DPPH) with an IC50 of 3.06±0.01 µg/mL, lower than the IC50 of the standard quercetin (5.30±0.02 µg/mL). Moreover, the ethanolic fraction showed antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, B. cereus and E. faecalis strains, with zone of inhibition values of 15.5±0.7, 14.0±0.0 and 14.5±0.7 mm respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the ethanolic fraction was found to be 1.563 mg/mL against both S. aureus and B. cereus strains, while the minimum bactericidal concentration was 3.125 mg/mL against B. cereus and 6.25 mg/mL against E. faecalis strains. L. inermis seeds exhibit significant antioxidant capacity and demonstrate antimicrobial activity. These findings indicate the potential of L. inermis seeds as a valuable source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
The Arm’s Length Principle – An Adequate Means for Taxing Multinational Corporate Groups?
Authors: Sander Hendrik , Scherer Anna-Lena , Schmiel Ute
Published: February 2024

International tax law is characterized by the arm’s length principle. However, the arm’s length principle is highly criticized since it is seen as a major driver of tax avoidance. Although the OECD’s Two-Pillar Solution and EU initiatives seem to indicate that international tax law is in a state of change, the arm’s length principle remains relevant. Therefore, we deal with the question whether it is possible to improve the arm’s length principle. While previous attempts ask, for example, whether it is possible to reduce its complexity, we focus on the aspect that the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines do not refer to a theory of the formation of prices in transactions between independent parties. We advocate developing a theoretical substantiation and introduce a new interpretation of the arm’s length principle, based mainly on concepts of a general evolutionary theory and political-cultural market theory. This reference to an adequate market theory leads us to a new interpretation of the arm’s length principle that differs considerably from the current interpretation. Still, we doubt that this new interpretation of the arm’s length principle alone can reduce tax avoidance significantly. However, understood as one instrument in a mix of instruments, we estimate that this interpretation of the arm’s length principle constitutes a more adequate means for fighting tax avoidance of multinational corporate groups than its current interpretation.
Sulfate removal from wastewater by using waste material as an adsorbent
Authors: Obeid Ashraf Fakhri , Nile Basim Khalil , Farouk Maad
Published: February 2024

A new composite adsorbent was created by activating bentonite, a sludge, to improve its adsorption capability. These innovative adsorbents address sulfate ion pollution in wastewater treatment. Researchers used various techniques to study the composite’s surface structure, chemical, elemental, and mineralogical characteristics. The composite adsorbs over 864 mg/L of sulfate ions from wastewater with an initial concentration of 900 mg/L, demonstrating its high removal efficiency of 96%.
Multi-Dimensional Regularity Analysis: How the Entrenchment-and-Conventionalization Model can be applied to corpus data
Authors: Schmid Hans-Jörg
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces and illustrates a methodology for analyzing corpus data with the goal of identifying regularities in the use of a given element or pattern. In line with the research tradition in construction grammar, one type of these regularities pertains to form-meaning and/or form-function pairings. In addition to this, however, further types of regularities are explored, among them the reciprocal type of regularity that links communicative goals and linguistic forms as well as contextual and social regularities. I pursue three main goals: 1) to lay out the conceptual groundwork of the methodology; 2) to present a manual for applying it; and 3) to illustrate its application with a case study on the sequence in here. The motivation for developing this methodology, labelled Multi-Dimensional Regularity Analysis (MDRA), lies in the dynamic, flexible and multi-dimensional notion of linguistic conventions and conventional constructions proposed as part of the Entrenchment-and-Conventionalization Model (Schmid 2020).
Dimensions of constructional meanings in the German Constructicon: Why collo-profiles matter
Authors: Ziem Alexander , Feldmüller Tim
Published: February 2024

A constructicon, i.e., a structured inventory of constructions, essentially aims at documenting functions of lexical and grammatical constructions. Among other parameters, so-called constructional collo-profiles, as introduced by Herbst (2018, 2020), are conclusive for determining constructional meanings. They provide information on how relevant individual words are for construction slots, they hint at usage preferences of constructions and serve as a helpful indicator for semantic peculiarities of constructions. However, even though collo-profiles constitute an indispensable component of constructicon entries, they pose major challengers for constructicographers: For a constructicographic enterprise it is not feasible to conduct collostructional analyses for hundreds or even thousands of constructions. In this article, we introduce a procedure based on the large language model BERT that allows to predict collo-profiles without having to extensively annotate instances of constructions in a given corpus. Specifically, by discussing the constructions
X macht Y ADJP (‘x makes Y ADJ’, e.g. he drives him crazy) and N1 PREP N1
(e.g., bumper to bumper, constructions over constructions), we show how the developed automated system generates collo-profiles based on a limited number of annotated instances. Finally, we place collo-profiles alongside other dimensions of constructional meanings included in the German Constructicon.
Extraction of 4-hydroxy benzoic acid from potato processing industrial waste
Authors: Dadhe Praful S. , Mandavgane Sachin A. , Kumar Anupama
Published: February 2024

Due to the substantial volume of waste produced and the potential for high-value bioactive compounds to be extracted from potato peel, the valorization of industrial waste of potato processing industry is the subject of this research. The study presents an innovative technique for efficient extraction of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (P-HBA), a valuable bioactive molecule, from potato peel extract by utilizing molecularly imprinted chitosan beads (MICB). The MICB was synthesized using environmentally benign cross-linkers such as Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), Sodium triphosphate (STPP), while P-HBA was is used as a template. The MICB was investigated using FTIR, SEM, and EDAX. Adsorption studies were conducted to optimize parameters like adsorbent dose, solution concentration, time and pH. A recovery rate of 95.07 % is recorded from a synthetic P-HBA solution when measured by HPLC while from the actual potato processing industrial effluent the same is 40 %. The adsorption capacity of MICB is 67.5 mg g−1 and specific binding capacity is 20.62 mg g−1 which remained unchanged for six consecutive cycle reuse. This is the first study to report uptake of a bioactive molecule from actual potato processing industry waste.