bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KERAGAMAN VEGETASI BERDASARKAN TIPE PENGELOLAAN LAHAN PADA HUTAN PRODUKSI DI DESA BANYU URIP KABUPATEN LOMBOK TENGAH
Authors: Handayani Ulandari , Idris Muhamad Husni , Aji Irwan Mahakam Lesmono
Published: July 2024

Keanekaragaman vegetasi pada suatu kawasan hutan relatif berbeda-beda tergantung status kawasan hutan dan juga aktivitas manusia dalam rangka memenuhi kehidupan sehari-hari. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui keragaman vegetasi berdasarkan tipe pengelolaan di hutan produksi di Desa Banyu Urip Kabupaten Lombok Tengah. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan cara stratified random sampling. Jumlah titik sampel sebanyak 22 titik, yaitu 15 titik pada lahan tertutup (didominasi tanaman MPTS dan tanaman berkayu) dan 7 titik pada lahan terbuka (didominasi tanaman semusim). Pengumpulan data vegetasi meliputi tingkat pohon, tiang, pancang dan semai dilakukan dengan pembuatan plot. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa total jenis vegetasi pada seluruh plot sebanyak 15 jenis vegetasi, dimana pada lahan tertutup ditemukan 12 jenis sedangkan pada lahan lahan terbuka ditemukan 8 jenis. Pada lahan tertutup, INP tertinggi untuk tingkat semai, tiang dan pohon terdapat pada jenis mahoni (Swietenia mahagoni). Sementara untuk tingkat pancang yaitu jati (Tectona  grandis). Pada lahan terbuka, INP tertinggi untuk tingkat tiang dan pohon terdapat pada  jenis mahoni (Swietenia mahagoni), sementara untuk tingkat semai dan pancang tidak ditemukan vegetasi. Indeks Keanekaragaman Shannon-Wiener pada lahan tertutup untuk tingkat pancang, tiang, dan pohon masuk dalam kategori keanekaragaman sedang, sementara untuk tingkat semai indeks keanekaragaman masuk dalam kategori rendah. Pada lahan terbuka indeks keanekaragaman untuk tingkat tiang dan pohon masuk dalam kategori sedang.
FOREST HERBAL TEA SHOULD BE PROMOTED IN INDONESIA
Authors: Wangiyana I Gde Adi Suryawan , Triandini I Gusti Agung Ayu Hari
Published: July 2024

Forest herbal tea is made from plants in the forest area. Various types of plants, including trees, shrubs, and herbs, can be sources of forest herbal tea. Most of the forest herbal tea sources are wild plants found in natural forest areas in Indonesia. This means that Indonesia has abundant forest herbal tea resources, which should be promoted. However, the use of raw materials in forest herbal tea products is still limited. This review shows why forest herbal tea products should be promoted in Indonesia in terms of cultivation, standardisation, processing method, economic value, and diversity of products.
PERTUMBUHAN DAN HASIL TANAMAN KANGKUNG DARAT (Ipomea reptans Poirs) PADA BEBERAPA JARAK TANAM DAN PEMBERIAN PUPUK BOKASHI KOTORAN KAMBING DOSIS YANG BERBEDA
Authors: Farida Nihla , Harmi Juni , Kusmarwiyah Rukmini
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian bokashi kotoran kambing dosis yang berbeda terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil tanaman kangkung darat yang ditanam pada jarak tanam yang berbeda.  Informasi tentang jarak tanam kangkung dan dosis bokashi pupuk kandang yang tepat yang menunjang pertumbuhan dan hasil optimal tanaman kangkung darat penting untuk diketahui agar didapatkan teknik budidaya yang efektif dan efisien serta ramah lingkungan.  Percobaan ini dilakukan di Desa Belanting, Lombok Timur yang ditata menurut Rancangan Acak Kelompok dengan dua faktor perlakuan. Faktor pertama yaitu dosis pupuk bokashi kotoran kambing: 0 ton/ha, 5 ton/ha, 10 ton/ha, 15 ton/ha dan 20 ton/ha, dan faktor kedua yaitu jarak tanam: 5 cm x 10 cm, 5 cm x 15 cm, 5 cm x 20 cm, dengan tiga ulangan. Data hasil pengamatan dianalisis menggunakan analisis sidik ragam dan diuji lanjut dengan BNJ pada taraf 5%.  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa hanya faktor jarak tanam yang berpengaruh terhadap parameter pengamatan, dan tidak ada interaksi antar dua faktor perlakuan. Jarak tanam lebar menyebabkan tinggi tanaman, jumlah daun, diameter batang per tanaman tertinggi. Sebaliknya, jarak tanam sempit menyebabkan berat segar per petak dan per Ha (berat ekonomi) tertinggi.
Writing and Reading Together from Colonial Legacy to World-making: The Case of Algerian Bilingual Authors
Authors: Smail Salhi Zahia
Published: July 2024

Kateb Yacine told Geneviève Serreau in 1956 that one does not use a universal language to humiliate a people in its very soul without consequences: sooner or later, the people seize that language and culture for themselves on their way towards freedom. Following this prophecy, Algerian intellectuals have in effect appropriated the French language, which they deploy with a high level of proficiency to address the colonizer in its own language. However, with decolonization, the French language was probed as a legacy of colonialism and an obstacle to Algerian self-realization and cultural authenticity. Algerian governments implemented a top-down Arabization policy, excluding national differences and subscribing wholly to the group of Arab nations. This process alienated those who did not read or speak Arabic in a country that is essentially comprised of a multiplicity of languages, cultures, and identities. This article delves into this bitter polemic as a painstaking search for national identity. It traces the position of the French language in the Algerian intellectual and literary landscape, from an initial gesture of rejection to a later move toward appropriation and nativization.
Consciousness, the High Probability of the Afterlife, and the Evolution of the Intelligence in the Universe/s
Authors: Senarath Dayathilake Kande Lekamalaya
Published: July 2024

This article explores the enduring mysteries of consciousness and the afterlife, two enigmatic topics that have fascinated humanity for ages. Despite extensive scientific efforts, the existence of an afterlife remains unproven, and understanding consciousness remains a significant challenge. The research introduces new hypotheses through simple thought experiments with empirical evidence and theoretical foundations. It delves into the complexities of consciousness, its relationship with the brain, and the need for interdisciplinary approaches. Boldly contemplating the probability of a continuous consciousness after death, the study argues that existing evidence strongly supports this idea. In other words, without accepting the afterlife hypothesis we might not discuss the experimental result in any other alternative theory. Beyond theoretical implications, it envisions practical outcomes, suggesting that insights into these mysteries could enhance human well-being and contribute to a more harmonious world. This article sheds light on age-old questions about consciousness and the afterlife. Through fresh methodologies, it seeks to provide new perspectives that could reshape our understanding of existence and inspire intellectuals to positive individual and societal advancements including psychological well-being and intelligence.
PERBAIKAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN PENGGUNA BPJS MENGGUNAKAN METODE FUZZY- SERVQUAL
Authors: Erniyani Erniyani , Hasdir Nita Aulia
Published: July 2024

Rumah sakit merupakan suatu penyelenggara pelayanan kesehatan yang setiap tahunnya mengalami perkembangan jumlah pasien. Setiap pasien mengharapkan pelayanan kualitas yang baik. Hal ini, bila terjadi ketidaksesuaian antara kepuasan dengan harapan akan berakibat pada reputasi rumah sakit dengan menurunnya pasien berobat di tempat tersebut. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi kualitas pelayanan pengguna BPJS yang mengacu pada lima dimensi yaitu tangible, reability, responsiviness, assurance, emphaty. Metode servqual digunakan untuk menentukan kualitas layanan dengan mengukur tingkat kesenjangan (gap) antara kepuasan dengan yang diharapkan berdasarkan hasil kuesioner. Penggabungan metode fuzzy servqual bertujuan untuk menghasilkan nilai yang akurat. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ada enam atribut yang memiliki nilai negatif yaitu kemampuan staff rumah sakit memberikan pelayanan tepat waktu (C4), dokter memiliki pengalaman mengobati pasien (D1), staff rumah sakit dan dokter berpakaian bersih, rapi, dan memakai APD (A3), fasilitas ruang tunggu yang nyaman (A4), ketersediaan seluruh macam pelayanan (C3), dan memberikan jaminan keamanan selama pasien dirawat (D2). Namun, atribut yang paling signifikan adalah C4 dengan nilai -1,00. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa perlu adanya peningkatan kualitas dari enam atribut tersebut sehingga dapat mendorong tingkat kepuasan pasien di rumah sakit X
PERENCANAAN JALUR EVAKUASI KEBAKARAN YANG EFISIEN UNTUK FASILITAS PERAWATAN RUMAH SAKIT DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN ALGORITMA DIJKSTRA
Authors: Safutra Nur Ihwan , Fole Asrul , Gunawan Alam , Hafid Muhammad Fachry , Ahmad Arfandi , Herdianzah Yan
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk merancang jalur evakuasi kebakaran menggunakan Algoritma Dijkstra di RSUD I Lagaligo Kabupaten Luwu Timur, sebagai bagian dari renovasi gedung untuk meningkatkan kualitas pelayanan. Algoritma Dijkstra dipilih karena kemampuannya dalam menentukan jalur terpendek dari suatu titik ke titik lain dalam suatu grafik. Penelitian ini menggunakan teknik analisis data yang sistematis dan logis untuk mendapatkan jalur evakuasi terdekat. Hasilnya menunjukkan penurunan jarak evakuasi yang signifikan setelah penerapan algoritma Dijkstra, meningkatkan efisiensi perjalanan dengan tetap menjaga konsistensi titik kumpul, kecuali beberapa rute yang mengalami perubahan titik kumpul.
Kinetic models towards an enhanced understanding of diverse ADC conjugation reactions
Authors: Weggen Jan Tobias , Bean Ryan , Hui Kimberly , Wendeler Michaela , Hubbuch Jürgen
Published: July 2024

The conjugation reaction is the central step in the manufacturing process of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). This reaction generates a heterogeneous and complex mixture of differently conjugated sub-species depending on the chosen conjugation chemistry. The parametrization of the conjugation reaction through mechanistic kinetic models offers a chance to enhance valuable reaction knowledge and ensure process robustness. This study introduces a versatile modeling framework for the conjugation reaction of cysteine-conjugated ADC modalities—site-specific and interchain disulfide conjugation. Various conjugation kinetics involving different maleimide-functionalized payloads were performed, while controlled gradual payload feeding was employed to decelerate the conjugation, facilitating a more detailed investigation of the reaction mechanism. The kinetic data were analyzed with a reducing reversed phase (RP) chromatography method, that can readily be implemented for the accurate characterization of ADCs with diverse drug-to-antibody ratios, providing the conjugation trajectories of the single chains of the monoclonal antibody (mAb). Possible kinetic models for the conjugation mechanism were then developed and selected based on multiple criteria. When calibrating the established model to kinetics involving different payloads, conjugation rates were determined to be payload-specific. Further conclusions regarding the kinetic comparability across the two modalities could also be derived. One calibrated model was used for an exemplary in silico screening of the initial concentrations offering valuable insights for profound understanding of the conjugation process in ADC development.
Blockchain for local communities: an exploratory review of token economy aspects
Authors: Domenicale Irene , Viano Cristina , Schifanella Claudio
Published: July 2024

Blockchain for local communities are blockchain-based applications that support the participation of people in the social and economic life of their local community. These applications leverage tokenization to enable socio-economic processes involving transactions of values where community members take part actively and intentionally. In this field, mechanisms that regulate the functioning of blockchains need to be redirected towards collaborative and social purposes that often differ from the logics on which mainstream cryptocurrencies are based. In order to redesign these mechanisms, sound examination of their system of tokenization and of dynamics of their token economy is required. This paper provides an exploratory review of token economy elements found within cases of blockchain for local community economies, which is an under-explored domain in the relevant literature. The analysis considers 9 projects for systems that incentivize or reward participation, or implement community currency schemes. The dimensions analyzed encompass the type of goals and communities, the blockchains adopted, and token economy design aspects such as: token types, their distribution and incentive mechanisms, the associated platform/wallet functionalities, and the project governance models. We have observed a variety of combinations of these elements being used to facilitate new forms of value circulation. However, there is a tension between the aspiration to introduce transformative systems and the need to ensure the stability of the economic framework. The highly experimental nature of these initiatives requires continuous monitoring of their emergence and development.
Development, regeneration, and physiological expansion of functional β-cells: Cellular sources and regulators
Authors: Chernysheva М. B. , Ruchko Е. S. , Karimova М. V. , Vorotelyak Е. A. , Vasiliev А. V.
Published: July 2024

Pancreatic regeneration is a complex process observed in both normal and pathological conditions. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the emergence of a functionally active population of insulin-secreting β-cells in the adult pancreas. The renewal of β-cells is governed by a multifaceted interaction between cellular sources of genetic and epigenetic factors. Understanding the development and heterogeneity of β-cell populations is crucial for functional β-cell regeneration. The functional mass of pancreatic β-cells increases in situations such as pregnancy and obesity. However, the specific markers of mature β-cell populations and postnatal pancreatic progenitors capable of increasing self-reproduction in these conditions remain to be elucidated. The capacity to regenerate the β-cell population through various pathways, including the proliferation of pre-existing β-cells, β-cell neogenesis, differentiation of β-cells from a population of progenitor cells, and transdifferentiation of non-β-cells into β-cells, reveals crucial molecular mechanisms for identifying cellular sources and inducers of functional cell renewal. This provides an opportunity to identify specific cellular sources and mechanisms of regeneration, which could have clinical applications in treating various pathologies, including in vitro cell-based technologies, and deepen our understanding of regeneration in different physiological conditions.
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors protect against contrast-associated acute kidney injury in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
Authors: Ma Yu , Fan Hui , Mi Wei , Ma Jing , Deng Yong , Song Yijie , Li Ximing
Published: July 2024

Background and aims

Contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) may occur in patients undergoing medical procedures involving x-rays and radiocontrast media, potentially resulting in prolonged renal impairment. However, no effective treatments are available. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the efficacy of evolocumab, a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitor, in reducing CA-AKI incidence among patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention between January 2020 and December 2021 at Tianjin Chest Hospital. The study endpoint was CA-AKI incidence, and the impact of selection bias and other potential confounding factors was mitigated using bias matching. Overall, 1,642 patients were included in this study: 821 patients received evolocumab treatment before contrast agent application, and 821 did not receive such treatment.

Results

CA-AKI incidence was 6.21% and 8.04% in the evolocumab and control groups, respectively. After propensity-score matching, the incidence rate was 5.09% and 14.16% in the evolocumab and control groups, respectively. Evolocumab treatment significantly reduced CA-AKI incidence (p < 0.001). Consistent findings were obtained in the subgroups of individuals with type II diabetes mellitus, chronic heart failure, and hypertension. Evolocumab exhibited a significantly greater protective effect in the high- and extremely high-risk populations than in the low- and middle-risk populations (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Evolocumab administration significantly reduced CA-AKI incidence among patients with ASCVD. Notably, this effect was more prominent within the subset of high- and extremely high-risk individuals who were already experiencing CA-AKI.
2020 Grand challenge revisited: removing silos, advancing research to improve overall health
Authors: Somerman Martha J. , Mouradian Wendy E. , Ganesan Sukirth M.
Published: July 2024

This perspective provides strong evidence that the aims set forth when Frontiers in Dental Medicine (FDMED) was launched in 2020, to advance the integration of dental, oral, and craniofacial research with mainstream biomedical practice, underscored the value of interprofessional research collaborations, encouraging studies, publications, and commentaries in this area ripe for continued innovation. The momentum gained toward these aims must continue to inform the public, healthcare providers, researchers, educators, and policymakers so that they can apply the knowledge gained to improve the overall health needs of all our communities.
Meshfree modelling of magnetotelluric and controlled-source electromagnetic data for conductive earth models with complex geometries
Authors: Long Jianbo
Published: July 2024

Geophysical electromagnetic survey methods are particularly effective in locating conductive mineral deposits or mineralization zones in a mineral resource exploration. The forward modelling of the electromagnetic responses over such targets is a fundamental task in quantitatively interpreting the geophysical data into a geological model. Due to the ubiquitous irregular and complex geometries associated with the mineral rock units, it is critical that the numerical modelling approach being used is able to adequately and efficiently incorporate any necessary geometries of the Earth model. To circumvent the difficulties in representing complex but necessary geometry features in an Earth model for the existing mesh-based numerical modelling approaches (e.g., finite element and finite difference methods), I present a meshfree modelling approach that does not require a mesh to solve the Maxwell’s equations. The meshfree approach utilizes a set of unconnected points to represent any geometries in the Earth model, allowing for the maximal flexibility to account for irregular surface geometries and topography. In each meshfree subdomain, radial basis functions are used to construct meshfree function approximation in transforming the differential equations in the modelling problem into linear systems of equations. The method solves the potential function equations of the Maxwell’s equations in the modelling. The modelling accuracy using the meshfree method is examined and verified using one magnetotelluric model and two frequency-domain controlled-source models. The magnetotelluric model is the well-known Dublin Test Model 2 in which the spherical geometry of the conductor in the shallow subsurface may pose as a challenge for many numerical modelling methods. The first controlled-source model is a simple half-space model with the electric dipole source for which analytical solutions exist for the modelling responses. The second controlled-source model is the volcanic massive sulphide mineral deposit from Voisey’s Bay, Labrador, Canada in which the deposit’s surface is highly irregular. For all modellings, the calculated electromagnetic responses are found to agree with other independent numerical solutions and the analytical solutions. The advantages of the meshfree method in discretizing the Earth models with complex geometries in the forward modelling of geophysical electromagnetic data is clearly demonstrated.
Ten years after: a systematic review of the literature on postsecondary education and disability from 2013 to 2022
Authors: Madaus Joseph , Gelbar Nicholas , Faggella-Luby Michael N. , Dukes Lyman L.
Published: July 2024

This article presents the results of a systematic review of the literature related to postsecondary education and disability published in peer-reviewed articles from 2013 to 2022. It replicates a prior investigation that examined the literature published on this topic between 1952 and 2012. Results indicated a nearly 200% increase in the number of published articles in this 10-year period, and moreover, a nearly 1,400% increase in articles that were based outside of the United States. Articles were published in 636 unique journals. There was also an increase in the number of articles presenting original data. Although most of the articles featured descriptive designs, there was also an increase in articles using mixed methods, single subject, or group designs. Comparisons across the two time periods of investigation are presented, as are implications for the field.
Conserved and differing functions of the endocrine system across different social systems – oxytocin as a case study
Authors: Sosnowski Meghan J. , Brosnan Sarah F.
Published: July 2024

A key goal of the field of endocrinology has been to understand the hormonal mechanisms that drive social behavior and influence reactions to others, such as oxytocin. However, it has sometimes been challenging to understand which aspects and influences of hormonal action are conserved and common among mammalian species, and which effects differ based on features of these species, such as social system. This challenge has been exacerbated by a focus on a relatively small number of traditional model species. In this review, we first demonstrate the benefits of using non-traditional models for the study of hormones, with a focus on oxytocin as a case study in adding species with diverse social systems. We then expand our discussion to explore differing effects of oxytocin (and its response to behavior) within a species, with a particular focus on relationship context and social environment among primate species. Finally, we suggest key areas for future exploration of oxytocin’s action centrally and peripherally, and how non-traditional models can be an important resource for understanding the breadth of oxytocin’s potential effects.
Analysis on three-core power cable temperature field and ampacity model under typical laying environment
Authors: Hu Zhenxing , Ye Xueyong , Li Qian , Luo Xiaokang , Zhao Yizheng , Zhang Hao , Zhang Liang
Published: July 2024

The current carrying capacity of power cables is an important parameter for the operation and scheduling of power cables, which is limited by the maximum allowable operating temperature of the cables. Establishing a cable temperature field and current carrying capacity model considering the influence of airflow in complex environments is of great significance for studying cable current carrying capacity. Based on the coupling theory of electric field and heat flow field, a temperature field and current carrying capacity analysis model for high-voltage three core cross-linked polyethylene cable and its laying environment was established using finite element analysis technology. Studied the effects of external air velocity and temperature on the current carrying capacity of cables under two laying methods: direct burial and air laying. Research has shown that the allowable operating time of short-term emergency current carrying capacity of cables is positively correlated with their size, and inversely proportional to the initial temperature of the cable core. The steady-state and transient analysis results of this model provide important reference value for cable operation scheduling, and the correctness and effectiveness of the model have been further verified through experiments based on actual scenarios.
Pitfalls in time-to-event analysis of registry data: a tutorial based on simulated and real cases
Authors: Alligon Mickaël , Mahlaoui Nizar , Bouaziz Olivier
Published: July 2024

Survival analysis (also referred to as time-to-event analysis) is the study of the time elapsed from a starting date to some event of interest. In practice, these analyses can be challenging and, if methodological errors are to be avoided, require the application of appropriate techniques. By using simulations and real-life data based on the French national registry of patients with primary immunodeficiencies (CEREDIH), we sought to highlight the basic elements that need to be handled correctly when performing the initial steps in a survival analysis. We focused on non-parametric methods to deal with right censoring, left truncation, competing risks, and recurrent events. Our simulations show that ignoring these aspects induces a bias in the results; we then explain how to analyze the data correctly in these situations using non-parametric methods. Rare disease registries are extremely valuable in medical research. We discuss the application of appropriate methods for the analysis of time-to-event from the CEREDIH registry. The objective of this tutorial article is to provide clinicians and healthcare professionals with better knowledge of the issues facing them when analyzing time-to-event data.
Interactive medical and safety monitoring in clinical trials with clinDataReview: a validated and open-source reporting tool
Authors: Cougnaud Laure , Faes Margaux , Van Krunckelsven Dirk , De Roeck Arne , Pasetto Michela , Fieuw Ann , Andersen Claus A. , Meyvisch Paul
Published: July 2024

Continuous medical and safety monitoring of subject data during a clinical trial is a critical part of evaluating the safety of trial participants and as such is governed by protocol procedures and regulatory guidelines to meet the trial's intended objectives. We present an open-source validated graphical tool (clinDataReview R package) which provides access to the trial data with drill-down to individual patient profiles. The tool incorporates functionalities that facilitate detection of error and data inconsistencies requiring follow-up. It supports regular medical monitoring and oversight as well as safety monitoring committees with interactive tables and listings alongside graphical visualizations of the primary safety data in reports. An implementation example is given where the tool is used to deliver validated outputs following FDA/EMA guidelines. As such, this tool enables a more efficient, interactive, and reproducible review of safety data collected during an ongoing clinical trial.
Molecular cloning and functional analysis of a plastidial ω3 desaturase from Emiliania huxleyi
Authors: Sun Kaiwen , Meesapyodsuk Dauenpen , Qiu Xiao
Published: July 2024

Emiliania huxleyi is a marine microalga playing a significant ecological and biogeochemical role in oceans. It can produce several polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6–4,7,10,13,16,19) and octadecapentaenoic acid (OPA, 18:5–3,6,9,12,15), providing a primary source for nutritionally important ω3 PUFAs in the marine food chain. However, the biosynthesis of these PUFAs in this organism is not well understood. In this study, a full length plastidial ω3 desaturase cDNA (EhN3) was cloned from this alga. Heterologous expression of EhN3 with and without the chloroplast targeting peptide (cTP) in cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus showed that it possessed high desaturation activity toward C18-ω6 PUFAs, linoleic acid (LA, 18:2–9,12), γ-linolenic acid (GLA, 18:3–6,9,12), and C20-ω6 PUFAs, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA, 20:3–8,11,14) and arachidonic acid (ARA, 20:4–5,8,11,14) that were exogenously supplied. Desaturation efficiency could reach almost 100% in a time course. On the other hand, when expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, EhN3 with and without cTP did not exhibit any activity. Lipid analysis of Synechococcus transformants expressing EhN3 showed that it utilized galactolipids as substrates. Transcriptional expression analysis revealed that the expression of the gene increased while the growth temperature decreased, which was correlated with the increased production of ω3-PUFAs, particularly OPA. This is the first report of a plastidial ω3 desaturase from microalgae that can effectively introduce an ω3 double bond into both C18-ω6 and C20-ω6 PUFAs. EhN3 might also be one of the key enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of OPA in E. huxleyi through the plastidial aerobic pathway.
Case report: Intrafraction dose-guided tracking for gastrointestinal organ-at-risk isotoxicity delivery on an MR-guided radiotherapy system
Authors: Yarlagadda Sreenija , Weiss Yonatan , Chuong Michael David , Bassiri Nema , Gutierrez Alonso N. , Kotecha Rupesh , Mehta Minesh P. , Mittauer Kathryn Elizabeth
Published: July 2024

In the current era of high-precision radiation therapy, real-time magnetic resonance (MR)-guided tracking of the tumor and organs at risk (OARs) is a novel approach that enables accurate and safe delivery of high-dose radiation. Organ tracking provides a general sense of the need for daily online adaptation but lacks precise information regarding exact dosimetry. To overcome this limitation, we developed the methodology for monitoring intrafraction motion with real-time MR-guided isodose line-based tracking of an OAR in combination with anatomic tumor-based tracking and reported the first case treated with this approach. An isolated para-aortic (PA) nodal recurrence from carcinosarcoma of the endometrium was treated with an ablative dose of 50 Gy in five fractions using MR-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT). This report demonstrates the feasibility, workflow, dosimetric constraints, and treatment paradigm for real-time isodose line-based OAR tracking and gating to enable an isotoxicity delivery approach. This innovative treatment strategy effectively tracked the intrafraction motion of both the target and OAR independently and enhanced the accuracy of structure localization in time and space with a more precise dosimetric evaluation.
Puerarin ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by inhibiting lipid metabolism through FMO5
Authors: Li Zhaoyi , Cao Wenjing , Zhang Yuxuan , Lai Shanglei , Ye Yingyan , Bao Jianfeng , Fu Ai
Published: July 2024

Introduction:Pueraria lobata is traditionally used in China for treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Puerarin, a functional drug extracted from Pueraria lobata, features a pharmacological activity. The present study aims to investigate the effect of puerarin intervention on NAFLD.

Methods: We established an NAFLD mouse model using a high-fat diet with 60% fat and evaluated the impact of puerarin intervention.

Results and discussion: Our results demonstrate that puerarin intervention significantly ameliorates lipid accumulation and protects the liver from high-fat-induced damage while reducing oxidative stress levels in the liver. Furthermore, puerarin intervention significantly downregulates the transcription levels of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC1) in the liver. It also upregulates the transcription levels of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), and peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor γ coactivator alpha (PGC1α), which are related to oxidation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that flavin-containing monooxygenase (FMO5) was involved in the protective effect of puerarin against NFALD. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the beneficial effect of puerarin on NAFLD and showed that puerarin could prevent liver injury and lipid accumulation caused by NAFLD via activating FMO5. These findings provide a new theoretical basis for applying puerarin as a therapeutic agent for NAFLD.
Commit to your putting stroke: exploring the impact of quiet eye duration and neural activity on golf putting performance
Authors: Carey Laura M. , Alexandrou Georgia , Ladouce Simon , Kourtis Dimitrios , Berchicci Marika , Hunter Angus M. , Donaldson David I.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

There is a growing interest in characterizing the cognitive-motor processes that underlie superior performance in highly skilled athletes. The aim of this study was to explore neural markers of putting performance in highly skilled golfers by recording mobile EEG (electroencephalogram) during the pre-shot period.

Methods

Twenty-eight right-handed participants (20 males) with a mean age of 24.2 years (± 6.4) and an average handicap of +1.7 (± 6.4) completed a testing session. Following the warm-up, participants completed 140 putts from a distance of 8ft (2.4m), with putts taken from 5 different positions. While putting, participants wore an eye tracker and a gel-based EEG system with 32 electrodes. Time and frequency domain features of the EEG signals were extracted to characterize Movement-Related Cortical Potentials (MRCP) and rhythmic modulations of neural activity in theta, alpha, sensorimotor and beta frequency bands associated with putting performance.

Results

Eye-tracking data demonstrate that mean Quiet Eye durations are not a reliable marker of expertise as the same duration was found for both successful and unsuccessful putts. Following rigorous data processing data from 12 participants (8 males, mean age 21.6 years ± 5.4, average handicap +1.5 ± 4.4) were included in the EEG analysis. MRCP analysis revealed performance-based differences, with unsuccessful putts having a greater negative amplitude in comparison to successful putts. Time frequency analysis of the EEG data revealed that successful putts exhibit distinct neural activity profiles compared to unsuccessful ones. For successful putts, greater suppression of beta was present in the central region prior to the putt. By contrast, increased frontal theta power was present for unsuccessful putts immediately before the putt (consistent with hesitation and the need for motor plan adjustments prior to execution).

Discussion

We propose that neural activity may provide plausible insights into the mechanisms behind why identical QE durations can lead to both success and failure. From an applied perspective, this study highlights the merits of a multi-measure approach to gain further insights into performance differences within highly skilled golfers. We discuss considerations for future research and solutions to address the challenges related to the complexities of collecting clean EEG signals within naturalistic sporting contexts.
Association of resistome abundance with hyperuricaemia in elderly individuals: a metagenomics study
Authors: Liu Zhiyang , Shen Yingbo , Fu Yulin , Sun Da , Li Liang , Lv Ziquan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Hyperuricaemia (HUA), one of chronic diseases, has an increased prevalence and is related to diseases such as gout, arthritis, infectious diseases, etc. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the gut is considered as an atypical chronic disease, and poses risk to human health. The gut microbiome has been proved to be a reservoir for AMR and play an important role in HUA patients. The microbial characteristics of the gut in individuals with HUA have been previously explored, however, the characteristics of the resistome in individuals with HUA have remained largely unexplored.

Methods

Thus, we investigated the landscape of the AMR in individuals with HUA and without HUA, and the potentially influential factors in a case-control study using metagenomics-based approaches.

Results

We found that drinking juice and abnormal stool were risk factors associated with HUA. The taxonomic diversity of gut microbiota in individuals with HUA was lower than that in non-HUA individuals. Notably, a higher abundance and diversity of the resistome (entire antimicrobial resistance genes) was observed in individuals with HUA (median: 1.10 vs. 0.76, P = 0.039, U-test), especially in tetracycline resistance genes (median: 0.46 vs. 0.20, P < 0.001, U-test), which are associated with more complex mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in individuals with HUA. Furthermore, we found that a higher abundance of the resistome was positively correlated with uric acid (UA) levels and affected by several host-associated factors (mainly dietary habits). Specifically, pork consumption and the consumption of root and tuber vegetables were identified as contributing factors. We also found a higher abundance of virulence genes (VGs), mostly related to adherence, antimicrobial activity, competitive advantage, and exoenzymes, in the gut microbial community of individuals with HUA.

Discussion

All findings revealed higher activity of the resistome and pathogenicity of the microbiota in individuals with HUA, indicating a higher health risk in the elderly HUA population.
Transactional sex and age-disparate sexual partnerships among adolescent girls and young women in Tanzania
Authors: Rucinski Katherine B. , Mbita Gaspar , Atkins Kaitlyn , Majani Esther , Komba Albert , Casalini Caterina , Drake Mary , Makyao Neema , Galishi Anthony , Mlawa Yeronimo , Wamoyi Joyce , Schwartz Sheree , Baral Stefan , Curran Kelly
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) continue to experience a high incidence of HIV in southern and eastern Africa, even in the context of large-scale HIV prevention interventions. In Tanzania, AGYW account for the largest proportion of new infections and have a higher risk of HIV acquisition than males of comparable age.

Methods

We used routinely collected data from the PEPFAR/USAID-funded Sauti Project, a large combination HIV prevention program, to examine the relationship between transactional sex and sex with older partners among AGYW in Tanzania (2015–2020). Out-of-school AGYW 15–24 years completed a vulnerability index and were tested for HIV. We estimated weighted prevalence ratios (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the associations of transactional sex (sex exchanged for money/services/gifts outside of sex work) and sex with older partners (≥5-years older, ≥10-years older) with prevalent HIV. Age cutoffs of 5 and 10 years were used to align partner age differences with age-disparate and intergenerational sex, respectively. We assessed potential synergism between exposures, and subgroup analyses explored associations among girls 15–19.

Results

Sixty seven thousand three hundred fifty seven AGYW completed the vulnerability index and 14,873 had captured HIV testing records. Median age was 20 years (IQR 18–22). Transactional sex and age-disparate sex were common (35% and 28%, respectively); 13% of AGYW reported both behaviors. HIV prevalence was associated with both transactional sex (PR: 1.28; 95% CI 1.00–1.63) and age-disparate sex (PR:1.26, 95% CI 0.99–1.60). In common referent analysis, transactional sex remained strongly associated with HIV, even in the absence of age-disparate sex (PR 1.41; 95% CI 1.02–1.94).

Discussion

Evidence of statistical synergism was not present, suggesting both transactional sex and age-disparate sex operate through similar pathways to increase HIV risk. Increased specificity within HIV prevention programs is needed to better meet the sexual and reproductive health needs of AGYW at high risk of HIV in Tanzania, including investment in tailored youth-friendly strategies for AGYW who have been marginalized from the current HIV response.
A gendered assessment of crop traits to improve breeding product design and uptake: the case of potato in Kenya
Authors: Mwende Mutiso Janet , Mayanja Sarah , Nyaga John , Sinelle Sophie , Renou Camille , Onyango Charles , Hareau Guy , Polar Vivian , Ashby Jacqueline , Okello Julius Juma
Published: July 2024

The study assesses the gender implications of a target product profile for table potato in Kenya. Breeding programs mostly emphasize farmers’ trait requirements and rarely pay attention to other value chain actors’ preferences. This partially contributes to the low uptake of improved varieties. Therefore, efforts are required to assess the gender implications of crop product profile proposals during development, testing, and dissemination. In this paper, we assess the gender implications of traits targeted by a potato breeding program in Kenya using the G+ tools. The study applies the G+ product profile tool to examine the instances the selected traits may exacerbate gender disparity along four domains: unpaid labor, access to employment opportunities, requiring extra inputs and control over benefits. We use mixed methods including a review by social scientists, key informant interviews and a multistakeholder workshop to gather insights from female and male farmers, breeders, and other stakeholders. Findings show that pest, disease resistance, and shelf-life traits benefit women and men in the target customer segments. On the other hand, earliness, dry matter, and yield could increase drudgery for women. The traits increase demand for women’s unpaid labor during harvesting, sorting and food preparation time while also displacing women from profitable nodes. We recommend that gender-responsive strategies accompany the release of the target variety to mitigate inequities and enhance adoption.
Liver transplantation for mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome caused by MPV17 deficiency: a case report and literature review
Authors: Wei Liu-Yuan , Chen Xiu-Qi , Huang Li , Shan Qing-Wen , Tang Qing
Published: July 2024

Objective

To study the effectiveness of liver transplantation (LT) in treating mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome (MDS) caused by the MPV17 gene variant.

Case presentation

A boy aged 2.8 years presented with edema of the lower limbs and abdomen, which persisted for over 10 days and was of unknown origin; this was accompanied by abnormal liver function, intractable hypoglycemia, and hyperlactatemia. During the second week of onset, he developed acute-on-chronic liver failure and was diagnosed with MDS due to homozygous variant c.293C>T in the MPV17 gene. Subsequently, he underwent LT from a cadaveric donor. At follow-up after 15 months, his liver function was found to be normal, without any symptoms. Additionally, a literature review was performed that included MDS patients with the MPV17 variant who underwent LT. The results demonstrated that the survival rates for MDS patients who underwent LT were 69.5%, 38.6%, 38.6%, and 38.6% at 1-year, 5-year, 10-year, and 20-year intervals, respectively. Sub-group analyses revealed the survival rate of MDS patients with isolated liver disease (83.33%, 5/6) was higher than that of hepatocerebral MDS patients (44.44%, 8/18). Fifteen variants were identified in the MPV17 gene, and patients with the c.293C>T (p.P98l) variant exhibited the highest survival rate.

Conclusion

Hepatocerebral MDS patients without neurological symptoms may benefit from LT.
Triiron Complexes Featuring Azadiphosphine Related to the Active Site of [FeFe]-Hydrogenases: Their Redox Behavior and Protonation
Authors: Hobballah Ahmad , Elleouet Catherine , Schollhammer Philippe
Published: July 2024

The design of iron clusters featuring a bimetallic core and several protonation sites in the second coordination sphere of the metal centers is important for modeling the activity of polymetallic active sites such as the H-cluster of [FeFe]-hydrogenases. For this purpose, the syntheses of complexes [Fe3(CO)5(κ2-PPh2NR2)(μ-pdt)2] (R = Ph (1), Bn (2)) and [Fe3(CO)5(κ2-PPh2NR2)(μ-adtBn)(μ-pdt)] (R = Ph (3), Bn (4)) were carried out by reacting hexacarbonyl precursors [Fe2(CO)6(µ-xdt)] (xdt = pdt (propanedithiolate), adtBn (azadithiolate) with mononuclear complexes [Fe(κ2-pdt)(CO)2(κ2-PPh2NR2)] (PPh2NR2 = (PPhCH2NRCH2)2, R = Ph, Bn) in order to introduce amine functions, through well-known PPh2NR2 diphosphine, into the vicinity of the triiron core. The investigation of the reactivity of these triiron species towards the proton (in the presence of CF3SO3H) and the influence of the pendant amines on the redox properties of these complexes were explored using spectroscopic and electrochemical methods. The protonation sites in such triiron clusters and their relationships were identified. The orientation of the first and second protonation processes depends on the arrangement of the second coordination sphere. The similarities and differences, due to the extended metal nuclearity, with their dinuclear counterparts [Fe2(CO)4(κ2-PPh2NR2)(μ-pdt)], were highlighted.
Kinetic Study and Reaction Mechanism of the Gas-Phase Thermolysis Reaction of Methyl Derivatives of 1,2,4,5-Tetroxane
Authors: Bordón Alexander G. , Profeta Mariela I. , Romero Jorge M. , Jorge María J. , Jorge Lilian C. , Jorge Nelly L. , Sainz-Díaz C. Ignacio , Cuéllar-Zuquin Juliana , Roca-Sanjuán Daniel , Viseras Iborra César , Grand André , Hernández-Laguna Alfonso
Published: July 2024

Tetroxane derivatives are interesting drugs for antileishmaniasis and antimalaric treatments. The gas-phase thermal decomposition of 3,6,-dimethyl-1,2,4,5-tetroxane (DMT) and 3,3,6,6,-tetramethyl-1,2,4,5-tetroxane (acetone diperoxide (ACDP)) was studied at 493–543 K by direct gas chromatography by means of a flow reactor. The reaction is produced in the injector chamber at different temperatures. The resulting kinetics Arrhenius equations were calculated for both tetroxanes. Including the parent compound of the series 1,2,4,5-tetroxane (formaldehyde diperoxide (FDP)), the activation energy and frequency factors decrease linearly with the number of methyl groups. The reaction mechanisms of ACDP and 3,6,6-trimethyl-1,2,4,5-tetroxane (TMT) decomposition have been studied by means of the DFT method with the BHANDHLYP functional. Our calculations confirm that the concerted mechanism should be discarded and that only the stepwise mechanism occurs. The critical points of the singlet and triplet state potential energy surfaces (S- and T-PES) of the thermolysis reaction of both compounds have been determined. The calculated activation energies of the different steps vary linearly with the number of methyl groups of the methyl-tetroxanes series. The mechanism for the S-PES leads to a diradical O···O open structure, which leads to a C···O dissociation in the second step and the production of the first acetaldehyde/acetone molecule. This last one yields a second C···O dissociation, producing O2 and another acetone/acetaldehyde molecule. The O2 molecule is in the singlet state. A quasi-parallel mechanism for the T-PES from the open diradical to products is also found. Most of the critical points of both PES are linear with the number of methyl groups. Reaction in the triplet state is much more exothermic than the singlet state mechanism. Transitions from the singlet ground state, S0 and low-lying singlet states S1–3, to the low-lying triplet excited states, T1–4, (chemical excitation) in the family of methyl tetroxanes are also studied at the CASSCF/CASPT2 level. Two possible mechanisms are possible here: (i) from S0 to T3 by strong spin orbit coupling (SOC) and subsequent fast internal conversion to the excited T1 state and (ii) from S0 to S2 from internal conversion and subsequent S2 to T1 by SOC. From these experimental and theoretical results, the additivity effect of the methyl groups in the thermolysis reaction of the methyl tetroxane derivatives is clearly highlighted. This information will have a great impact for controlling these processes in the laboratory and chemical industries.