bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE TERM OF DOCUMENTATION IN THE CONTEXT OF LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SCIENCE EDUCATION IN INDONESIA FROM THE 1950’S TO 2010’S
Authors: Hartinah Sri Hartinah , Basuki Sulistyo
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to explore the concept of teaching institutions in Indonesia. The term documentation in the Indonesian library and information Sciences (LIS), which is a translated version of the word “documentatie,” was introduced in the early 1950s by the Training Course for Library Staff as an activity that involves the acquisition, processing, storage and retrieval of documents.  Furthermore, the method adopted historically involves the examination of existing historical sources, usually articles, institutional reports, examining textbooks. Moreover, it was reported that documentation is different from library activities, which subsequently extended to the application in government offices. This variation impacts on the daily life, based on the fact that documentation is more concerned with on non-printed materials, laying emphasis on the processing of newspapers and journals, and the movement towards natural sciences. Conversely, the library is concerned with printed data on books, with works that are limited to social sciences and humanities. However, the growing impacts of internet information technology on librarianship and research progress in the aspect of related sciences lead to a query on the similarity and variation between both terms in Indonesia. In the mid-2010s, the Ministry of Research and Higher Education issued a regulation under the auspices of Information Sciences cluster, insinuating the existence of programs, which include (1) Information Science and (2) Library and Information Science (LIS). This paper, however, accepted the concept of variation between Information Science, LIS and documentation, leading to the submission of some suggestions based on its content as a course study in Indonesia. Furthermore, there are no mentions of documentation in this dimension, owing to its obsolete modified meanings. Keywords: Library and Information Sciences, LIS Education, Education program, Documentation Term
LAYANAN REFERENSI EMAIL DI ITL TRISAKTI SAAT PANDEMI COVID-19
Authors: Prasetyo Bima Bijak , Irawati Indira
Published: January 2024

Layanan yang masih bisa beroperasi dalam kondisi Pembelajaran  Jarak Jauh karena Pandemi COVID-19 adalah layanan referensi virtual yang dilakukan melalui email. Pada penelitian ini berusaha mengungkap layanan referensi virtual yang belum lama diluncurkan dalam kurun waktu pelaksanaan pembelajaran jarak jauh karena adanya pandemi Covid-19. Dengan menggunakan metode kualitatif studi kasus, penelitian ini ingin mendeskripsikan pelaksanaan layanan referensi yang dilakukan oleh Perpustakaan ITL Trisakti pada saat proses pembelajaran jarak jauh.Temuan yang didapat dari penelitian ini walaupun perpustakaan ITL Trisakti telah melakukan kegiatan Layanan Virtual Email, namun dalam penerapannya masih memiliki banyak kekurangan, antara lain standar layanan yang belum ditetapkan, program pemasaran yang belum terencana, dukungan e-resources yang kurang memadai.
Implementasi PERMEN KP Nomor 41 Tahun 2019 Di Perpustakaan Khusus : Studi Kasus Serah Simpan KCKR Local Content di Perpustakaan Archivelago Indonesia Marine Library
Authors: Abbas Shafira Latifah , Wicaksono Hendra
Published: January 2024

Lemahnya pengawasan dalam kegiatan implemntasi PERMEN KP Nomor 41 Tahun 2019 menyebabkan kegiatan serah simpan karya cetak dan karya rekam local content KKP belum berjalan secara maksimal. Untuk mengetahui bagaimana implementasi serah simpan KCKR local content yang telah dilakukan oleh Perpustakaan Archivelago. Penelitian ini betujuan (1) Untuk mengetahui bagaimana implementasi serah simpan KCKR local content yang telah dilakukan oleh Perpustakaan Archivelago berdasarkan PERMEN KP nomor 41 tahun 2019. (2) Untuk mengetahui proses dan kendala yang dihadapi dalam impelementasi PERMEN KP nomor 41 tahun 2019 terkait serah simpan KCKR local content KKP di Perpustakaan Archivelago. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah studi kasus. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan observasi, wawancara, dokumentasi. Penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa (1) kegiatan implementasi PERMEN KP nomor 41 tahun 2019 di lingkup Kementerian Kelautan dan Perikanan belum maksimal dalam hal pelaksanaan, (2) masih lemahnya pengawasan Perpustakaan Archivelago dalam kegiatan serah simpan KCKR local content, (3) Perpustakaan Archivelago belum melakukan sosialisasi selam tahun 2020 yang menyebabkan rendahnya pengetahuan pegawai unit kerja eselon 1 tentang PERMEN KP nomor 41 tahun 2019, (4) Perpustakaan Archivelago mengalami kekurangnya sumber daya manusia dengan latar belakang pendidikan ilmu perpustakaan yang menyebabkan implementasi serah simpan local content menjadi belum optimal terutama dalam pelaksanaan kegiatan registrasi ISBN dan ISSN. Kata kunci: Karya Cetak dan Karya Rekam (KCKR), PERMEN KP nomor 41 tahun 2019, serah simpan, perpustakaan archivelago, kementerian kelautan dan perikanan.
ANALISIS KEBUTUHAN INFORMASI TENTANG PAP SMEAR PADA IBU PKK DI CEMPAKA PUTIH TENGAH 13 KELURAHAN CEMPAKA PUTIH TIMUR
Authors: Lusiana Lusiana , Rosini Rosini
Published: January 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk  mengetahui gambaran kebutuhan informasi tentang Pap smear pada ibu-ibu PKK di Cempaka Putih Tengah 13 Kelurahan Cempaka Putih Timur Jakarta Pusat dan Tinjauannya menurut Islam. Populasi penelitian ini adalah ibu PKK di kelurahan Cempaka Putih Timur. Jenis penelitian pendekatan deskriptif kuantitatif dengan sampel 70 responden. Teknik sampel yang digunakan Nonprobability Sampling jenis sampling jenuh. Hasil penelitian yang dilakukan, rata-rata responden membutuhkan informasi dengan topik apa itu pap smear & bagaimana cara melakukannya (58.82%), dengan sumber referensi internet (35%), alasan untuk memenuhi tugas pekerjaan mereka (25.49%), informasi tercetak sangat sering menggunakan buku (29.41%), informasi elektronik sangat sering menggunakan website (39.21%), informasi langsung para ahli/ dokter (33.33%), informasi pap smear untuk menambah pengetahuan sendiri (92.15%), informasi pap smear dibutuhkan untuk diri sendiri guna mencegah kanker serviks (62.74%) dengan cara menanyakan ke yang lebih ahli/ dokter (35.29%), dari sudut pandang lingkungan diketahui bahwa melakukan pencarian informasi kesehatan dikarenakan di lingkungan rumah sedang ada isu kesehatan tentang pap smear (47,05%) dan gaya hidup disebabkan karena tidak melakukan pap smear secara berkala (35.29%), informasi berkualitas berasal dari pakar ahli kesehatan (68.62%), dan informasi terkini mayoritas yang  dipilih oleh responden
Studi Kasus Penggunaan ChatGPT pada Mahasiswa di PTKI Lampung
Authors: Sugiarto Sugiarto , Suhono Suhono
Published: January 2024

The aim of this research is to analyze the utilization and challenges of ChatGPT in Lampung Higher Education Institutions (PTKI). This study employs a qualitative approach with a case study method. Qualitative research aims to explore the utilization and challenges of ChatGPT as a tool to enhance students' understanding at Lampung PTKI. The research sample consists of students majoring in Islamic Economics and Business, Guidance and Counseling, and English Teaching at Lampung PTKI. Data collection techniques include interviews, observations, and documentation. The researcher utilizes a Semi-Structured interview. The findings of this research indicate that the use of ChatGPT for students can be a valuable resource in various economic and teaching contexts. It can assist students in making strategic decisions based on a deeper understanding of the sought-after data sources. However, educators should also be aware of existing challenges, including concerns about digital divide, information validity, and technology reliability. As academic leaders, instructors play a crucial role in addressing technological challenges and adapting to such changes.

 Keywords: ChatGPT for Students, The Challenge ChatGPT, The Utilization ChatGPT
Development of a robot-assisted reduction and rehabilitation system for distal radius fractures
Authors: Zha Qing , Xu Zeou , Yang Hongbo , Zhang Guodong , Cai Xuefeng , Zhang Wanlin , Liu Yujiang , Shen Xiaofeng , Li Yuwei
Published: January 2024

Background: Closed reduction is the preferred treatment for distal radius fractures. However, it requires a multiple experienced medical staff and manually maintaining stable traction is difficult. Additionally, doctors cannot assess the reduction status of a fracture in real-time through radiographic images, which may lead to improper reduction. Furthermore, post-fracture complications such as joint adhesion, stiffness, and impaired mobility pose a challenge for the doctors. So it is necessary to optimize the treatment process of the distal radius fracture through technological means.

Methods: A robot-assisted closed reduction and rehabilitation system, which could assist doctors throughout the entire process of reduction, fixation, and rehabilitation of distal radius fractures, was developed. A mechanical system, composed of two grippers and a cooperative robotic arm, was used to grasp and tract the affected limb. A doctor controlled the robot through a joystick console and Windows application program. A biplane radiographic device was integrated into the system, which is not only convenient for doctors to view radiographic images of the fracture at any time but also for them to select the rotation axis of the wrist on the images before reduction and rehabilitation. Important information including the anteroposterior and lateral radiographic data and force and position parameters during the reduction and rehabilitation process were displayed on a graphic user interface.

Results: Experimental results showed that the proposed robotic system can meet the technical requirements for the reduction and rehabilitation of distal radius fractures, all the rotation angles could be achieved, a maximum force of more than 50 N could be achieved in all traction directions, and the error in selecting the wrist joint rotation axis line using radiographic images was less than 5 mm.

Conclusion: The developed robot-assisted system was shown to be suitable for closed reduction and rehabilitation of distal radius fractures, contributing a potential improvement in the quality of the procedures.
SLC2A9 rs16890979 reduces uric acid absorption by kidney organoids
Authors: Wu Shouhai , Li Chuang , Li Yizhen , Liu Junyi , Rong Cuiping , Pei Hongfei , Li Xiong , Zeng Xiang , Mao Wei
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The excretion and absorption of uric acid (UA) by the kidneys helps regulate serum UA levels. GLUT9, encoded by SLC2A9, is mainly expressed in the renal tubules responsible for UA absorption. SLC2A9 polymorphisms are associated with different serum UA levels. However, the lack of proper in vitro models has stalled research on the mechanisms of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that affect UA metabolism in human urate transporters.

Methods: In this study, we constructed a gene-edited human embryonic stem cells-9 (ESC-H9) derived kidney organoid bearing rs16890979, an SLC2A9 missense mutation with undetermined associations with hyperuricemia or hypouricemia. Kidney organoids derived from ESC-H9 with genetical overexpression (OE) and low expression (shRNA) of SLC2A9 to serve as controls to study the function of SLC2A9. The function of rs16890979 on UA metabolism was evaluated after placing the organoids to urate-containing medium and following histopathological analysis.

Results: The kidney organoids with heterozygous or homozygous rs16890979 mutations showed normal SLC2A9 expression levels and histological distribution, phenotypically similar to the wild-type controls. However, reduced absorption of UA by the kidney organoids with rs16890979 mutants was observed. This finding together with the observation that UA absorption is increased in organoids with SLC2A9 overexpression and decreased in those with SLC2A9 knockdown, suggest that GLUT9 is responsible for UA absorption, and the rs16890979 SNP may compromise this functionality. Moreover, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) was detected in organoids after UA treatment, especially in the kidney organoid carrying GLUT9OE, suggesting the cytobiological mechanism explaining the pathological features in hyperuricosuria-related renal injury.

Discussion: This study showing the transitional value of kidney organoid modeling the function of SNPs on UA metabolism. With a defined genetic background and a confirmed UA absorption function should be useful for studies on renal histological, cellular, and molecular mechanisms with this organoid model.
Research progress of plant-derived natural products in thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Du Qiujing , Shen Weidong
Published: January 2024

Thyroid carcinoma (TC) is a prevalent malignancy of the endocrine system, with a notable rise in its detection rate in recent decades. The primary therapeutic approaches for TC now encompass thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine therapy, yielding favorable prognoses for the majority of patients. TC survivors may necessitate ongoing surveillance, remedial treatment, and thyroid hormone supplementation, while also enduring the adverse consequences of thyroid hormone fluctuations, surgical complications, or side effects linked to radioactive iodine administration, and encountering enduring physical, psychosocial, and economic hardships. In vitro and in vivo studies of natural products against TC are demonstrating the potential of these natural products as alternatives to the treatment of thyroid cancer. This therapy may offer greater convenience, affordability, and acceptability than traditional therapies. In the early screening of natural products, we mainly use a combination of database prediction and literature search. The pharmacological effects on TC of selected natural products (quercetin, genistein, apigenin, luteolin, chrysin, myricetin, resveratrol, curcumin and nobiletin), which hold promise for therapeutic applications in TC, are reviewed in detail in this article through most of the cell-level evidence, animal-level evidence, and a small amount of human-level evidence. In addition, this article explores possible issues, such as bioavailability, drug safety.
The contribution of private land conservation to 30x30 in Germany
Authors: Kopsieker Lisa , Disselhoff Tilmann
Published: January 2024

In line with Target 3 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the European Union (EU) aims to protect 30% of its land and sea by 2030 (known as 30x30). Germany has been a vocal supporter of this goal in the international arena but has yet to achieve sufficient protected area coverage domestically. We estimate that Germany needs to report an additional 4.65 million hectares of protected land to achieve 30x30. This article examines the potential of privately protected areas (PPAs) and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) to contribute to this goal. We explore the German Federal Nature Conservation Act and identify the legal hurdles for the designation and recognition of PPAs. Furthermore, we argue that OECMs have the potential to contribute significantly to 30x30 in Germany. We estimate that close to one million hectares of land could be classified as OECMs and outline potentially qualifying sites. In conclusion, we discuss the prerequisites for upscaling private land conservation in Germany, focusing on required conditions for establishing OECMs and incentivising conservation easements and long-term conservation leases through national funding programmes.
Comparison between transthoracic echocardiography and transoesophageal echocardiography in the diagnosis of acute aortic dissection from an emergency perspective. A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zaki Hany A. , Albaroudi Bilal , Shaban Eman E. , Alkahlout Baha Hamdi , Yigit Yavuz , Elnabawy Wael , Basharat Kaleem , Almarri Nood Dhafi , Azad Aftab Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Background

Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is a life-threatening medical condition with high early fatality. Therefore, a prompt and precise diagnosis, which can be achieved through invasive and non-invasive techniques is vital. Echocardiography, unlike MRI and CT, is accessible in emergency units and bedside-compatible. The recommended echocardiographic techniques for AAD are transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography (TTE and TOE). Therefore, our review compares their diagnostic roles in AAD.

Methods

Studies relevant to our topic were attained through a database search and manual scrutiny of references lists of articles obtained from the electronic databases. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool (QUADAS-2) has been used for quality assessment. All quantitative analyses were performed using either STATA 16 or Comprehensive Meta-Analyst software.

Results

The search strategy yielded 1,798 articles, of which only 11 were eligible for inclusion. Our subgroup analysis showed that conventional TTE had a sensitivity and specificity of 85.35% and 84.51% for the diagnosis of Stanford type A AAD and was 45.89% sensitive and 87.05% specific for the diagnosis of type B AAD. However, the subgroup analysis shows that contrast-enhancement of TTE results in a sensitivity and specificity of 93.30% and 97.60% for diagnosis of type A AAD, and 83.60% and 94.50% for diagnosis of type B AAD, respectively. On the other hand, conventional TOE was 93.64% sensitive and 95.50% specific for the diagnosis of type A AAD, 99.80% sensitive and 99.87% specific for the diagnosis of type B AAD. Moreover, our analyses show that TTE has pooled false negative and positive rates of 28.6% and 18.6%, while TOE has shown false negative and positive rates of 2.4% and 4.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

TOE is the more favorable diagnostic tool for AAD diagnosis than TTE. However, it cannot be used as a stand-alone diagnostic tool since misdiagnosis cases are being reported. Contrast-enhanced TTE can also diagnose AAD since it provides similar results to conventional TOE.
Trends of the COVID-19 dynamics in 2022 and 2023 vs. the population age, testing and vaccination levels
Authors: Nesteruk Igor
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The population, governments, and researchers show much less interest in the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many questions still need to be answered: why the much less vaccinated African continent has accumulated 15 times less deaths per capita than Europe? or why in 2023 the global value of the case fatality risk is almost twice higher than in 2022 and the UK figure is four times higher than the global one?

Methods

The averaged daily numbers of cases DCC and death DDC per million, case fatality risks DDC/DCC were calculated for 34 countries and regions with the use of John Hopkins University (JHU) datasets. Possible linear and non-linear correlations with the averaged daily numbers of tests per thousand DTC, median age of population A, and percentages of vaccinations VC and boosters BC were investigated.

Results

Strong correlations between age and DCC and DDC values were revealed. One-year increment in the median age yielded 39.8 increase in DCC values and 0.0799 DDC increase in 2022 (in 2023 these figures are 5.8 and 0.0263, respectively). With decreasing of testing level DTC, the case fatality risk can increase drastically. DCC and DDC values increase with increasing the percentages of fully vaccinated people and boosters, which definitely increase for greater A. After removing the influence of age, no correlations between vaccinations and DCC and DDC values were revealed.

Discussion

The presented analysis demonstrates that age is a pivot factor of visible (registered) part of the COVID-19 pandemic dynamics. Much younger Africa has registered less numbers of cases and death per capita due to many unregistered asymptomatic patients. Of great concern is the fact that COVID-19 mortality in 2023 in the UK is still at least 4 times higher than the global value caused by seasonal flu.
Hypogonadism and sexual function in men affected by adrenocortical carcinoma under mitotane therapy
Authors: Canu Letizia , Sparano Clotilde , Naletto Lara , De Filpo Giuseppina , Cantini Giulia , Rapizzi Elena , Martinelli Serena , Ercolino Tonino , Cioppi Francesca , Fantoni Alessandro , Zanatta Lorenzo , Terreni Alessandro , Mannelli Massimo , Luconi Michaela , Maggi Mario , Lotti Francesco
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare and aggressive tumor. ACC male patients under adjuvant mitotane therapy (AMT) frequently develop hypogonadism, however sexual function has never been assessed in this setting. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate in AMT treated ACC patients the changes in Luteinizing hormone (LH), Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), total testosterone (TT) and calculated free testosterone (cFT), the prevalence and type of hypogonadism and sexual function, the latter before and after androgen replacement therapy (ART).

Methods

LH, SHBG, TT and cFT were assessed in ten ACC patients at baseline (T0) and six (T1), twelve (T2), and eighteen (T3) months after AMT. At T3, ART was initiated in eight hypogonadal patients, and LH, SHBG, TT and cFT levels were evaluated after six months (T4). In six patients, sexual function was evaluated before (T3) and after (T4) ART using the International Index of Erectile Function-15 (IIEF-15) questionnaire.

Results

Under AMT we observed higher SHBG and LH and lower cFT levels at T1-T3 compared to T0 (all p<0.05). At T3, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction (ED) were detected in 80% and 83.3% of cases. At T4, we observed a significant cFT increase in men treated with T gel, and a significant improvement in IIEF-15 total and subdomains scores and ED prevalence (16.7%) in men under ART.

Conclusion

AMT was associated with hypergonatropic hypogonadism and ED, while ART led to a significant improvement of cFT levels and sexual function in the hypogonadal ACC patients. Therefore, we suggest to evaluate LH, SHBG, TT and cFT and sexual function during AMT, and start ART in the hypogonadal ACC patients with sexual dysfunction.
Associations between maternal and offspring glucose metabolism: a 9-year follow-up of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nyen Sigrid L. , Stunes Astrid Kamilla , Evensen Kari Anne I. , Børsting Torunn , Syversen Unni , Salvesen Kjell Å. , Mørkved Siv , Stafne Signe N.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

There is increasing evidence that the in utero environment affects the health and disease risk of offspring throughout their lives. The long-term effect of maternal hyperglycaemia on offspring glucose metabolism is of interest in a public health perspective. The aim of this study was to examine the association between in utero exposure to maternal glycaemia and offspring glucose metabolism.

Methods

Mother-child pairs were recruited from an RCT to prevent gestational diabetes mellitus where 855 healthy pregnant women were randomised to exercise or standard antenatal care. The original RCT detected no group differences in gestational diabetes mellitus prevalence or insulin resistance. The two groups were analysed as one group in the present study. Maternal glucose levels were assessed after 2-hour 75-gram oral glucose tolerance tests in pregnancy week ~34. Offspring outcomes were evaluated at ~9 years of age and included fasting glucose and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance. Multivariable regression models were performed, controlling for potential hereditary and lifestyle confounding factors.

Results

Complete data were available for 105 mother-child pairs. The regression analysis showed a positive association between maternal and offspring fasting glucose that was borderline significant (beta=0.18, 95% CI [-0.00027, 0.37], p=0.050). We did not find significant associations between maternal fasting glucose and offspring insulin resistance (beta=0.080, 95% CI [-0.087, 0.25], p=0.34), or between maternal 2-hour glucose and offspring fasting glucose (beta=0.016, 95% CI [-0.038, 0.070], p=0.56) or insulin resistance (beta=0.017, 95% CI [-0.032, 0.065], p=0.49).

Conclusions

Assessing a homogeneous group of healthy mother-child pairs, we found a borderline significant positive association between maternal and offspring fasting glucose, which persisted after adjustment for potential hereditary and lifestyle confounding factors. Our findings support other similar studies and highlight that improving the metabolic health of pregnant women, and women in childbearing age, should remain a key public health priority.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT00476567.
Research on energy consumption in household sector: a comprehensive review based on bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wang Tian , Zhao Qinfeng , Gao Weijun , He Xiujuan
Published: January 2024

Households are an important sector in carrying out human development activities, accounting for more than 30% of the total global energy consumption. The continued growth of household energy consumption (HEC) and carbon emissions is threatening economic and environmental sustainability. This review focuses on the research in the field of HEC and conducts a bibliometric analysis of research articles from the Web of Science Core Collection since 2000. The results show that: 1) HEC research has undergone rapid development since 2014, and interdisciplinary fusion and collaborative research have become dominant trends. 2) Keyword co-occurrence analysis clearly identifies the current urgent themes, including energy demand and its determinants, environmental impact factors and assessments, and energy-saving technologies and emission reduction measures. 3) The analysis of citations reveals that economic models, such as input-output models and life cycle assessment, are frequently employed in the field of HEC. Based on a summary of household energy-saving and emissions reduction work, this paper critically discusses the limitations of existing measures such as smart home technology, sustainable energy systems, and behavioral interventions. The main directions for promoting household energy-saving development in the future are identified: including improving the security and customer engagement of smart home technology, focusing on the availability and stability of sustainable energy, and paying more attention to low-income and aging households in behavioral intervention measures. One of the important obstacles facing research is how to reduce energy management efficiency and usage costs through technology and policy.
Does agricultural mechanization improve agricultural environmental efficiency?
Authors: Yan Fuzhen , Sun Xuetao , Chen Suisui , Dai Guilin
Published: January 2024

Improving agricultural environmental efficiency (AEE) is critical for sustainable and green agricultural advancement. However, there is limited research on the impact of agricultural mechanization on agricultural environmental efficiency. This study innovatively used micro-level survey data from the national fixed observation points of China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs to employ a super-efficiency slacks-based measure (SBM) model with undesirable outputs for quantifying AEE. Additionally, a Tobit regression model was used to examine the influence of agricultural mechanization on AEE. Our findings revealed a “U-shaped” relationship between agricultural mechanization and AEE. Specifically, when the extent of mechanization fell below a particular threshold, any further increase adversely affected the AEE. Conversely, surpassing this threshold enhanced the AEE. This “U-shaped” effect was mediated by agricultural carbon emissions. Furthermore, our analysis indicated that relative to other village categories, the benefits of mechanization in elevating AEE are more pronounced in plain, agriculturally focused, and affluent villages. To promote the improvement of agricultural environmental efficiency, it is advisable to advance agricultural mechanization, reduce agricultural carbon emissions, and develop agricultural mechanization tailored to local conditions.
Efficacy of peroxygen disinfestants against non-fungal plant pathogens in agricultural and horticultural production: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Copes Warren E. , Ojiambo Peter S.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

A quantitative review was performed on the effectiveness of peroxygen products that contain hydrogen peroxide (HP), peracetic acid (PAA) and potassium peroxy-monosulfate (PPMS) to eliminate non-fungal plant pathogens in agricultural and horticultural cropping systems.

Methods

This quantitative analysis is a complementary follow-up to a previous study on efficacy of peroxygen against fungal plant pathogens. The meta-analysis evaluated the biocidal activity of peroxygen intervention treatments against 15 different non-fungal plant pathogens in 81 studies compared to independent non-treated controls that were conducted over the last 30 years.

Results

The overall summary effect size was a Hedges’ g (g¯+) of 1.98 for the random effects model, which indicates that peroxgen treatments caused a moderate to high reduction in viable propagules or disease progression in most cases. The range in efficacy was defined by the 95% prediction intervals (-0.82 to 4.80) and indicated peroxygen applications would range from ineffective to very highly effective in 95% of similar populations. Peroxygen compounds provided similar control (P = 0.5655) against bacteria, oomycetes and viruses, while being more effective against zygomycetes (P = 0.0001) than other organism types. Differences were observed between peroxygen active ingredients (a.i.) (P = 0.0203), where PPMS was more effective than HP + PAA. Differences were also observed when peroxygen compounds were applied on different target materials (P = 0.0004). Peroxygen compounds were moderately effective against non-fungal plant pathogens when applied in solution and on metal surfaces but ineffective when applied on plants under crop production conditions. Differences between target materials explained 50% of the true variances in a meta-regression model with the length of time peroxygens were in contact with target materials (P = 0.0416).

Discussion

These results show that although the current recommended dose and contact time for commercial peroxygen products are expected to result in pathogen inactivation, their efficacy will likely be influenced by the organism and material being treated. This analysis serves as a base reference for considering efficacy performance of peroxygen compounds against non-fungal plant pathogens.
Causal relationship between the blood immune cells and intervertebral disc degeneration: univariable, bidirectional and multivariable Mendelian randomization
Authors: Qin Chaofan , Chen Mingxin , Yu Qingshuai , Wang Xin , Hu Tao , Lei Bo , Yan Zhengjian , Cheng Si
Published: January 2024

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a prominent contributor to chronic low back pain, impacting millions of individuals annually. Current research on disc degeneration is placing a growing emphasis on the role of the immune system in this process. Nevertheless, the precise relationship between immunity and disc degeneration remains to be fully elucidated.

Method

We obtained GWAS data for immune cells from the latest summary-level GWAS, including 6,620 individuals from Sardinian and 746,667 individuals from five global populations. Summary results for IVDD were sourced from the FinnGen consortium, comprising 20,001 cases and 164,682 controls. We conducted a comprehensive univariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the potential causal relationship between immune cells and IVDD. Primary estimation was carried out using Inverse-Variance Weighting (IVW). To ensure robustness, we employed additional MR methods such as MR-Egger, Weighted Median, Weighted Mode, and Simple Mode. Various tests were employed to assess pleiotropy and heterogeneity, including the Cochran Q test, leave-one-out test, MR-Egger intercept analysis and MR-PRESSO test. To account for potential confounding factors among the immune cells, we conducted a multivariable MR analysis. Finally, we investigated the possibility of a reverse association between immune cells and IVDD through bidirectional MR.

Result

In total, our study identified 15 immune cells significantly associated with IVDD through univariable MR. Among these, 9 immune cell types were indicated as potential contributors to IVDD, while 6 were found to have protective effects. Importantly, we observed no evidence of heterogeneity or pleiotropy, signifying the robustness of our results. To mitigate confounding among immune cells, we utilized multivariable MR, leading to the discovery that only 9 immune cell types exerted independent effects on IVDD. These encompassed 7 as risk factors and 2 as protective factors. Additionally, our analysis revealed a bidirectional causal relationship between CD39+ CD4+ T cell %CD4+ T cell and IVDD.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a connection between immune cells and the risk of IVDD, shedding light on potential therapeutic avenues for modulating immune cell function in individuals with IVDD. However, the specific underlying mechanisms warrant further investigation in future experiments.
Exploring the effects of temperature and light availability on the vegetative propagation processes of the non-native species Asparagopsis armata
Authors: Sainz-Villegas Samuel , Sánchez-Astráin Begoña , Puente Araceli , Juanes José A.
Published: January 2024

Widespread generalist species, particularly the non-native invasive ones, are expected to be enhanced by climate change resulting in a biotic homogenization of ecosystems. The red seaweedAsparagopsis armatais a non-native opportunistic species, widely distributed in the European coasts of the North Atlantic, where it has been considered invasive. In this work, we examined the effects of temperature and irradiance on the vegetative propagation process of this species in a laboratory experiment. We considered vegetative propagation due to its implications in the invasion process (as it is considered one of the main sources of recruitment). In gametophytes, the process was characterized through the survival rates of hook-shaped specialized structures and the production and growth of new plantlets from hooks of 1-3cm in length. In tetrasporophytes, the growth and phycobiliprotein contents of previously excised tufts was analyzed. For gametophytes, results revealed how vegetative propagation for this species was conditioned by the low survival rates of hooks once detached from the main thallus. In our experiment, survival probabilities after 30 days of culture were always below 50%. Comparisons among environmental conditions showed lower survival rates under increasing levels of temperature and decreasing levels of irradiance. In fact, mass mortality was detected at 18°C and low irradiance, where almost any hook-shaped fragment survived. Nevertheless, patterns of appearance and growth of plantlets at different temperatures and irradiances were not clear. In the case of tetrasporophytes, only positive growth rates were registered at 15°C and 55-60 µmol/m2/s after 30 days of culture. Higher concentration of phycobiliproteins was detected at higher temperatures during the first days of culture, while not clear patterns were detected at the end. In the light of climate change, understanding these reproduction patterns is necessary in order to adopt better management actions in the future.
Concrete matrix based on marble powder, waste glass sludge, and crumb rubber: pathways towards sustainable concrete
Authors: Akbar Muhammad , Hussain Zahoor , Imran Muhammad , Bhatti Samiullah , Anees Muneer
Published: January 2024

This research aims to develop a sustainable concrete matrix using industrial waste materials, including marble powder, waste glass sludge (WGS), and crumb rubber from tire waste. The mechanical properties of the newly designed concrete mix, such as compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength, were evaluated. The results showed improvements in compressive strength by 5%, split tensile strength by 4%, and flexural strength by 5%. Besides, a statistical two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a threshold of less than 0.001 was used, and the residual error was found to be low (4.09), both in terms of lack of fit and pure error. This research proposes a new model to assess the sustainable performance of the newly developed concrete matrix. Data was collected from 21 academic professors and structural engineers, and hypotheses were tested using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The Design Expert software was deployed to check its hypothesis, and the Smart PLS software was deployed to measure data validation. The findings demonstrate that a sustainable concrete matrix positively influences sustainable performance. The proposed model offers valuable insights for decision-makers and engineering managers, highlighting the benefits of adopting sustainable materials to enhance overall sustainability performance. Incorporating marble powder, waste glass sludge, and crumb rubber was beneficial in terms of mechanical strengths and microstructure. Overall, this research contributes to the goal of reducing CO2 emissions in the cement industry and provides practical recommendations for incorporating sustainable materials in construction practices.
The influence of cement proportion and curing age on the mixed mode I-II fracture characteristics of cement soil
Authors: Liu Tao , Du Tiantian , Lu Huaming , Hu Baichun , Yang Xun , Liu Gang
Published: January 2024

To study the fracture failure mechanism of cement soil under tensile-shear stress, mixed mode I-II fracture tests were conducted on cement soil semi-circular bending specimens with different cement proportions (p= 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%) and curing ages (T= 1, 3, 5, and 7 days). The test results showed that the cracks were jagged as they propagated, and mode I stress intensity factor (KI) and mode II stress intensity factor (KII)gradually increased with the increase of cement proportion and curing age. In addition, theKII/KICvalues were between 0.39 and 0.45 under different cement proportions and between 0.40 and 0.44 under different curing ages. Subsequently, the limitations of using traditional fracture criteria (MTS, S, G, and circular criteria) to describe cement soil fracture damage were identified. In contrast, the generalized maximum tangential stress (GMTS) criterion fitted the test results well, with theKII/KICvalue and the crack initiation angle near the critical sizerc= 1 mm curve. Based on the generalized maximum tangential stress (GMTS) criterion, thercof the cement soil crack tip micro-fracture zone was calculated as 0.3 mm–1.9 mm.
Molecular mechanisms of resistance and treatment efficacy of clofazimine and bedaquiline against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Islam Md Mahmudul , Alam Md Shah , Liu Zhiyong , Khatun Mst Sumaia , Yusuf Buhari , Hameed H. M. Adnan , Tian Xirong , Chhotaray Chiranjibi , Basnet Rajesh , Abraha Haftay , Zhang Xiaofan , Khan Shahzad Akbar , Fang Cuiting , Li Chunyu , Hasan Sohel , Tan Shouyong , Zhong Nanshan , Hu Jinxing , Zhang Tianyu
Published: January 2024

Clofazimine (CFZ) and bedaquiline (BDQ) are currently used for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strains. In recent years, adding CFZ and BDQ to tuberculosis (TB) drug regimens against MDR Mtb strains has significantly improved treatment results, but these improvements are threatened by the emergence of MDR and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Mtb strains. Recently, CFZ and BDQ have attracted much attention for their strong clinical efficacy, although very little is known about the mechanisms of action, drug susceptibility test (DST), resistance mechanisms, cross-resistance, and pharmacokinetics of these two drugs. In this current review, we provide recent updates on the mechanisms of action, DST, associated mutations with individual resistance and cross-resistance, clinical efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of CFZ and BDQ against Mtb strains. Presently, known mechanisms of resistance for CFZ and/or BDQ include mutations within the Rv0678, pepQ, Rv1979c, and atpE genes. The cross-resistance between CFZ and BDQ may reduce available MDR-/XDR-TB treatment options. The use of CFZ and BDQ for treatment in the setting of limited DST could allow further spread of drug resistance. The DST and resistance knowledge are urgently needed where CFZ and BDQ resistance do emerge. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of clinical efficacy, DST, cross-resistance, and pharmacokinetics for CFZ and BDQ against Mtb can provide new ideas for improving treatment outcomes, reducing mortality, preventing drug resistance, and TB transmission. Along with this, it will also help to develop rapid molecular diagnostic tools as well as novel therapeutic drugs for TB.
In vitro safety and functional characterization of the novel Bacillus coagulans strain CGI314
Authors: Mazhar Shahneela , Simon Annie , Khokhlova Ekaterina , Colom Joan , Leeuwendaal Natasha , Deaton John , Rea Kieran
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Bacillus coagulans species have garnered much interest in health-related functional food research owing to their desirable probiotic properties, including pathogen exclusion, antioxidant, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and food fermentation capabilities coupled with their tolerance of extreme environments (pH, temperature, gastric and bile acid resistance) and stability due to their endosporulation ability.

Methods

In this study, the novel strain Bacillus coagulans CGI314 was assessed for safety, and functional probiotic attributes including resistance to heat, gastric acid and bile salts, the ability to adhere to intestinal cells, aggregation properties, the ability to suppress the growth of human pathogens, enzymatic profile, antioxidant capacity using biochemical and cell-based methods, cholesterol assimilation, anti-inflammatory activity, and attenuation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced disruption of the intestinal-epithelial barrier.

Results

B. coagulans CGI314 spores display resistance to high temperatures (40°C, 70°C, and 90°C), and gastric and bile acids [pH 3.0 and bile salt (0.3%)], demonstrating its ability to survive and remain viable under gastrointestinal conditions. Spores and the vegetative form of this strain were able to adhere to a mucous-producing intestinal cell line, demonstrated moderate auto-aggregation properties, and could co-aggregate with potentially pathogenic bacteria. Vegetative cells attenuated LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression in HT-29 intestinal cell lines and demonstrated broad antagonistic activity toward numerous urinary tract, intestinal, oral, and skin pathogens. Metabolomic profiling demonstrated its ability to synthesize several amino acids, vitamins and short-chain fatty acids from the breakdown of complex molecules or by de novo synthesis. Additionally, B. coagulans CGI314’s strong antioxidant capacity was demonstrated using enzyme-based methods and was further supported by its cytoprotective and antioxidant effects in HepG2 and HT-29 cell lines. Furthermore, B. coagulans CGI314 significantly increased the expression of tight junction proteins and partially ameliorated the detrimental effects of H2O2 induced intestinal-epithelial barrier integrity.

Discussion

Taken together these beneficial functional properties provide strong evidence for B. coagulans CGI314 as a promising potential probiotic candidate in food products.
Expression of placental CD146 is dysregulated by prenatal alcohol exposure and contributes in cortical vasculature development and positioning of vessel-associated oligodendrocytes
Authors: Sautreuil Camille , Lecointre Maryline , Dalmasso Jessica , Lebon Alexis , Leuillier Matthieu , Janin François , Lecuyer Matthieu , Bekri Soumeya , Marret Stéphane , Laquerrière Annie , Brasse-Lagnel Carole , Gil Sophie , Gonzalez Bruno J.
Published: January 2024

Recent data showed that prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) impairs the “placenta–brain” axis controlling fetal brain angiogenesis in human and preclinical models. Placental growth factor (PlGF) has been identified as a proangiogenic messenger between these two organs. CD146, a partner of the VEGFR-1/2 signalosome, is involved in placental angiogenesis and exists as a soluble circulating form. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether placental CD146 may contribute to brain vascular defects described in fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. At a physiological level, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction experiments performed in human placenta showed that CD146 is expressed in developing villi and that membrane and soluble forms of CD146 are differentially expressed from the first trimester to term. In the mouse placenta, a similar expression pattern of CD146 was found. CD146 immunoreactivity was detected in the labyrinth zone and colocalized with CD31-positive endothelial cells. Significant amounts of soluble CD146 were quantified by ELISA in fetal blood, and the levels decreased after birth. In the fetal brain, the membrane form of CD146 was the majority and colocalized with microvessels. At a pathophysiological level, PAE induced marked dysregulation of CD146 expression. The soluble form of CD146 decreased in both placenta and fetal blood, whereas it increased in the fetal brain. Similarly, the expression of several members of the CD146 signalosome, such as VEGFR2 and PSEN, was differentially impaired between the two organs by PAE. At a functional level, targeted repression of placental CD146 by in utero electroporation (IUE) of CRISPR/Cas9 lentiviral plasmids resulted in (i) a decrease in cortical vessel density, (ii) a loss of radial vascular organization, and (iii) a reduced density of oligodendrocytes. Statistical analysis showed that the more the vasculature was impaired, the more the cortical oligodendrocyte density was reduced. Altogether, these data support that placental CD146 contributes to the proangiogenic “placenta–brain” axis and that placental CD146 dysfunction contributes to the cortical oligo-vascular development. Soluble CD146 would represent a promising placental biomarker candidate representative of alcohol-induced neurovascular defects in neonates, as recently suggested by PlGF (patents WO2016207253 and WO2018100143).