bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEPÓSITOS E FEIÇÕES TECNOGÊNICAS EM SUB-BACIAS URBANAS DE TERESINA/PI: IDENTIFICAÇÃO, CLASSIFICAÇÃO E ESPACIALIZAÇÃO
Authors: Cunha Linhares Fagundes Gabriel , Leal dos Santos Oliveira Rafael , De Brito Nunes Hikaro Kayo
Published: June 2024

As sociedades humanas em suas formas de apropriação e ocupação do relevo ao longo do tempo tem cada vez mais modificado o modelado com distintas técnicas. Por meio de atividades de gabinete, campo e de ferramentas de Geoprocessamento, a presente pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar os depósitos e feições tecnogênicos em quatro sub-bacias urbanas (PD08, PD09, PD10 e PD13) do rio Poti em Teresina (PI) tendo como recorte a construção da Avenida Ulisses Marques e seu entorno, buscando assim proceder a identificação, classificação e espacialização dos mesmos e sua correlação com impactos associados. Sob classificações distintas, tais feições associam-se com intenso processo erosivo e impactos à dinâmicas hídrica e geomorfológica locais, impactos esses intensificados com o descarte inadequado de resíduos sólidos, como eletrodomésticos, resíduos de construção civil (sem relação com a obra), plásticos, materiais orgânicos, vidros, papel e pneu. As feições tecnogênicas identificadas, a citar os cortes de relevo, voçorocas, superfícies rebaixadas, constatam a influência humana sobre o modelado, mesmo que nesse caso seja em pequena escala, tornando-se assim, a urgência em ações eficientes para o manejo destes, a fim de diminuir os impactos e melhorar a qualidade de vida das populações do entorno.
ESPACIALIDADE DA VIOLÊNCIA NO TERRITÓRIO URBANO
Authors: Dantas Régis Façanha
Published: June 2024

Este trabalho relaciona a violência, o espaço territorial e suas vulnerabilidades locais através de um índice que revele essa relação espaço-temporal, buscando padrões espaciais. São referenciadas teorias da violência relacionadas com o espaço e vulnerabilidades. A metodologia usada foi a criação do Índice de Violência Espacial-IVE através da análise multivariada de componentes principais. Para averiguação das evidências, a análise exploratória de dados espaciais foi usada para descrever e visualizar padrões de associação (clusters espaciais) e sugerir relações no espaço entre as variáveis na cidade de Fortaleza, com dados de 2016 a 2018, período de maior violência. O resultado foi a verificação de evidências empíricas do IVE, demonstrando que os espaços dos setores agregados com seus níveis de violência se correlacionam espacialmente com áreas mais vulneráveis e com a desordem urbana. Com o IVE, é possível compatibilizar as políticas públicas com as características do espaço da violência, potencializando a eficiência das estratégias.
O PIONEIRISMO DE SERRES: AS RELAÇÕES DAS TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS COM O ENSINO CONTEMPORÂNEO
Authors: Cocato Guilherme
Published: June 2024

Não se aplica
O COMPORTAMENTO DO TURISTA FLUMINENSE EM TEMPOS DE PANDEMIA
Authors: Abreu Luciano Muniz , Botelho Eloise Silveira , Lima Matheus Gomes
Published: June 2024

Este trabalho procura analisar o comportamento de turistas do estado do Rio de Janeiro nos 11 primeiros meses de acometimento da pandemia de Covid-19 no Brasil, confrontando-o com o gerenciamento dado pelo Estado à crise desencadeada no setor de turismo. Trata-se de extrato de uma pesquisa mais ampla desenvolvida em rede pelo grupo de pesquisa “Turismo em tempos de pandemia: uma abordagem geográfica multi e transescalar”. O foco centrou-se no comportamento dos turistas quanto à realização ou não de viagens a lazer durante o período pandêmico, a partir de 470 respostas obtidas com aplicação de questionário eletrônico, em que se atingiu um nível de confiabilidade de 95% e erro amostral de 4,52%. Metodologicamente, optou-se pela análise quantitativa dos dados com aplicação combinada de abordagem descritiva e multivariada. Estatisticamente, a amostra pode ser caracterizada como não probabilística e não estratificada. Os achados apontam que a atuação do poder público e sua capacidade de transmitir confiança em suas ações (em especial, em tempos tão adversos) parecem ter papel relevante nas decisões dos turistas quanto à realização de viagens. Isso denota, em grande medida, que os comportamentos dos turistas estão atrelados, para além de seu perfil socioeconômico, às ações e decisões tomadas na esfera administrativa pública, entendidas como práticas de segurança a serem seguidas. Conclui-se que o comportamento do turista fluminense está relacionado à dinâmica de mercado, mas, sobretudo, aos interesses em relação à manutenção da vida no contexto da crise sanitária sem precedentes em que o Estado tem forte influência.
CONSIDERAÇÕES ACERCA DO PROGRAMA FEDERAL “AVANÇAR CIDADES”: materialidades e contradições em Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Santos Regerson Franklin dos , Souza Adauto de Oliveira
Published: June 2024

O presente texto examina a dinâmica do Programa Federal “Avançar Cidades” desde o seu primórdio em 2012 até início de 2021, tendo como recorte geográfico de análise o território de Mato Grosso do Sul, a partir dos investimentos e ações implementadas no saneamento básico, um dos muitos setores infraestruturais que recebem os aportes financeiros do Governo Federal. Justificam-se tais reflexões pela ausência de literatura mas crucialmente pela importância que significa ao país como um todo na medida em que visa-se promover o desenvolvimento local e melhoria na qualidade de vida. A análise documental correlacionada à bibliográfica são as diretrizes metodológicas empregadas para se construir esse arcabouço, que investiga a relação Estado e Mercado/Sociedade e sua narrativa ideológica. Esta relação denota o discurso, a falácia e a efetividade às quais são realizados vultosos investimentos no País - e particularmente em Mato Grosso do Sul - que expressam a entrada da iniciativa privada em serviços outrora públicos e, ainda, a utilização de recursos públicos como o Fundo de Garantia por Tempo de Serviço – FGTS para financiar tais obras, evidenciando um Estado catalisador de recursos que são destinados à lucratividade privada. Mato Grosso do Sul enquadra-se explicitamente nesse contexto pois, constatamos investimentos governamentais da ordem de R$ 440 milhões de reais, em diversas cidades, “preparando-as”, do ponto de vista do saneamento básico para posterior Parceria Público Privada (PPP) desse serviço (Direito!) à iniciativa privada. Tal PPP se efetivou em 2021, com a assinatura de contrato entre o governo Sul-mato-grossense e a espanhola AEGEA.
RESPON BEBERAPA GENOTIPE TANAMAN PADI GOGO LOKAL SUMATRA BARAT TERHADAP PEMBERIAN PUPUK ORGANIK CAIR PADA INCEPTISOL
Authors: Reda Abdul , Ediwirman Ediwirman , Ernita Milda , Jamilah Jamilah , Sunadi Sunadi
Published: June 2024

Upland rice is a type of rice that has the potential to be developed in the South Solok area on Inceptisol dry land. Several types of upland rice were tested with the application of liquid organic fertilizer to obtain the best interaction between upland rice types and liquid organic fertilizer concentrations on growth and yield. The experiment was conducted on the inceptisol land of the Central Seed Center, South Solok District Agriculture Office, altitude of 980 meters above sea level, from July to December 2022. The experiment was arranged using a Randomized Block Design, a factorial treatment consisting of two factors. The first factor is the genotype of upland rice, namely; Guliang Tanda Merah, Rokan, Sibawang, and Simaritik. The second factor is the concentration of liquid organic fertilizer namely; 0, 20, 40, and 60 ml l-1, each experimental unit consisted of 3 replicates. observed data were analyzed using the F test if the calculated F is greater than the F table then proceed with the DNMRT test at the 5% level. Based on the experimental results, it can be concluded that the interaction of genotypes of upland rice and POC 20 ml.l 1 on the variable number of panicle grains. Provision of 60 ml.l-1 POC increased plant height growth, number of productive tillers, flowering age, harvest age, flag leaf length, number of panicles, panicle length, number of grains per hill, number of empty grains, number of grains per hill, percentage of empty grain,  grain weight per hill of upland rice plants. upland rice genotype, Guliang Tandai Merah is a genotype that has high productivity in all observed variables
PENGARUH PEMBERIAN PUPUK KANDANG AYAM DAN PUPUK NPK TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN BIBIT KELAPA SAWIT (Elaeis guineensis Jacq) PADA TAHAP PEMBIBITAN
Authors: Haslinda Haslinda , Haris Abdul , Ibrahim Bakhtiar
Published: June 2024

This research was conducted with the aim of knowing the effect of The dose of chicken manure and NPK fertilizer on growth oil palm seedlings at the early seedling stage. This research was conducted in East Tarengge Village, Wotu District, East Luwu Regency. Takes place from May to August 2022. This study was designed with a two-factorial Randomized Block Design (RAK) factors, namely chicken manure (200, 300 and 400 g/polybag) and NPK fertilizer (2, 2.5, 3g/polybag). Parameters observed were plant height, number of leaf area, stem diameter, root length and root weight. The results of this study indicate that the interaction between manure chicken and NPK fertilizer showed a significant effect on growth of oil palm seedlings. Giving chicken manure with a dose of 300 gr/polybag provides higher growth than dosing 200 gr/polybag and 400 gr/polybag, as well as the provision of NPK fertilizer with a dose of 2,5 g/polybag tends to give higher growth than other treatments
EFEKTIVITAS PENYARUNGAN BUAH KAKAO PADA UMUR BERBEDA TERHADAP TINGKAT INTENSITAS HELOPELTIS spp. DI KECAMATAN PITUMPANUA KABUPATEN WAJO
Authors: Nugraha Nur Andi Aslam , Gani Mahis S. , Parawansa Ayu Kartini
Published: June 2024

This study aims to determine the intensity level of fruit-sucking pests in Lompoloang Village, Pitumpanua District, Wajo Regency, South Sulawesi. This study used 3 different treatments with 3 different types of fruit age, namely, P1 (Treatment at 3 months fruit age), P2 (Treatment at 2 months fruit age) and P3 (Treatment at 3 months fruit age). This research was conducted in Pitumpanua District, Wajo Regency, South Sulawesi, from June to September 2022. This research was carried out by observing the fruit directly with its symptoms and the level of pest attack directly in the field on cocoa fields in Wajo Regency, South Sulawesi, as well as harvesting. secondary data such as the types of pests that most attack cocoa pods in the relevant agencies. Parameters observed were attack intensity. The results showed that from the three treatments, the intensity level of Helopeltis spp. The highest level of attack intensity was in treatment 1 when the fruit was about 3 months old. This was because the fruit was still young and the skin was young, so that pests could more easily stick their stylet through the skin of the cocoa pod. The intensity of the attack was correlated with the number of fruit-sucking pests in the study area. In general, the criteria for the intensity level of this pest attack are low with the rate of development of the attack not being too significant. With the level of pest conditions belonging to the high category.
Structure and Photo-response Properties of FZO/ITO Thin Film
Authors: - Amrina Mustaqim , Lature Yeli Krisdayanti , Anrokhi Mohamad Samsul , Friansa Koko , Maharsi Retno , Nurfani Eka
Published: June 2024

The structure and photo-response properties of ZnO:Fe/ITO thin film synthesized using  a pyrolysis method were studied in this work. ZnO:Fe/ITO thin film referred to as FZO/ITO was characterized using the X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique and current-voltage (I-V) measurements. The XRD analysis showed that the detected peaks at 30.23°, 35.15°, 37.36°, 45.18°, and 50.54° belonged to the ITO cubic phase. The I-V analyses showed that the sample had the saturation current, Schottky barrier, and sensitivity of 16.24 µA, 0.4771, and 0,90 µA respectively. The FZO/ITO gave a good response toward the light.
Sintesis Karbon Aktif dari Tandan Kosong Kelapa Sawit dengan Aktivator Gelombang Mikro dan Pengujian Kualitas Berdasarkan SNI 06-3730-1995
Authors: Oktaviani Zeny , Wahyuni Dwiria , Nurhanisa Mega
Published: June 2024

Karbon aktif merupakan jenis karbon berpori yang memilki daya serap tinggi terhadap zat yang ada di lingkungan karena telah diaktifkan. Limbah tandan kosong kelapa sawit (TKKS) yang jumlahnya cukup melimpah di Indonesia dapat dijadikan bahan pembuatan karbon aktif. Tujuan penelitian adalah menentukan pengaruh variasi daya dan waktu aktivasi menggunakan microwave pada efisiensi adsorpsi larutan metilen biru serta menyelidiki jika karbon aktif dari TKKS sesuai standar uji SNI 06-3730-1995. Adapun metode penelitian yang dilakukan yaitu tahap dehidrasi dilakukan dengan sinar matahari dan oven dengan suhu oven 110°C sampai massa tetap; tahap karbonisasi dilakukan dengan bantuan furnace selama 3 jam dengan suhu 500°C; dan tahap aktivasi menggunakan aktivasi gelombang mikro dengan variasi daya yaitu 500W, 600W, dan 900W dan variasi waktu yaitu 5, 10, dan 15 menit; serta dilakukan pengujian kualitas karbon aktif pada parameter tertentu yaitu kadar air, bagian yang menghilang saat pemanasan 950°C,  karbon aktif murni,  kadar abu, dan daya serap pada metilen biru. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan karbon aktif terbaik adalah pada aktivasi 600W selama 10 menit dengan pengujian  kadar abu, kadar air, dan daya serap pada metilen biru sesuai syarat mutu SNI 06-3730-1995.
A Critical Investigation of Lagos State Socioeconomic and Economic Challenges: Does Urban Growth Policy Matter in Nigeria?
Authors: Osho Gbolahan Solomon , Ojumu Oluwagbemiga
Published: June 2024

Lagos State’s transformation into a critical urban hub highlights its economic promise and challenges, including rising unemployment, police brutality, and poverty amidst rapid growth. This study delves into how population increase, government spending, and financial policies affect the economy, revealing the critical role of education and job creation in tackling unemployment and enhancing living conditions. It underscores the impact of capital expenditure and monetary policies on economic stability, advocating for balanced development and targeted interventions to foster prosperity. The experience of Lagos offers valuable lessons for nationwide policy formulation and informed efforts for sustainable urban development and progress.
The Influence of Leader Legacy Beliefs on Intergenerational Decision-Making
Authors: Haque MD , Amayah Angela Titi , Liu Sunny , Whitney Rich
Published: June 2024

This grounded theory study aimed to explore the perceptions or thinking of legacy held by organizational leaders and how legacy thinking shaped their decisions and life experiences. Using the theory of planned behavior, the authors analyzed 52 semi-structured interviews with leaders to build an understanding of their perspectives on legacy. A framework emerged from the data that can help understand the process through which life experiences shaped legacy thinking and the values of legacy thinking held by participants. Our findings offer insights that can help develop leaders focused on the organization’s sustainability past their tenure.
Expanding Patient Access and Engagement
Authors: Binik-Thomas Justin , Fronczkowski Barbara , Reinemeyer Kathleen , Brown Meggen
Published: June 2024

Access to healthcare in the United States is drastically changing. The governmental response to the coronavirus greatly upended our ways of business. Rationing care damaged trust, instilled hesitancy for treatments and prevention, and functionally introduced medical deserts to poor and rural areas. The response by the practitioners was positive - empowering nurses, physician associates, and pharmacists to perform most patient-facing functions. This paper focuses on community care, primarily by nurse practitioners, where practitioners provide primary care and urgent care near or in existing pharmacies and supermarkets, building on relationships and convenience, thus maximizing patient access and mitigating risks.
Multi-scale patterns in the structure of fish and fouling communities associated with seaweeds in marinas
Authors: Leclerc JC , Gonzalez M , Pezy JP , Raoux A , Crec’hriou R , Broudin C , Houbin C , Migné A , Loisel S , Sevin L , Coudret J , Davoult D , Charbonnelle M , Valerdi JB , Schlicklin F , Van Paemelen R , Humbert S , Massé C , Viard F , Filbee-Dexter K , Wernberg T , Thiébaut E
Published: June 2024

Redistribution of biodiversity represents a key challenge for understanding scales of spatial variation in natural marine communities. With increasing coastal urbanization, artificial structures are proliferating, with impacts on natural habitats, yet we have limited knowledge on the spatial scales of processes operating over their associated species assembly. This is exemplified by novel communities establishing along and around floating infrastructures, such as pontoons in marinas. In this study, we explored multi-scale patterns in the diversity and community structure of fouling seaweeds, invertebrates and fish communities associated with pontoons in 18 marinas, distributed along ∼1000 km of coastline in NW France. With respect to the distribution of marinas across 3 distinct ecoregions, we predicted that their seaweed communities would follow spatial patterns reported in native communities from rocky shores. This hypothesis was poorly supported, and the variation among ecoregions (8%) was largely explained by the abundance of nonindigenous kelps. However, as anticipated, we observed important variability among and within marinas in all response variables (e.g. richness of sessile invertebrates and fish). These variations were related to contrasting sea surface temperature regimes among marinas, along with a number of explanatory variables (e.g. distance to marina entry). As also hypothesized, fouling and fish communities covaried with kelp biomass, although covariations were strengthened at the scale of the region and at the scale of the marina and pontoon when nonindigenous and native kelp were considered, respectively. Specificities in distributions and influences of foundation species in urban environments could be worth scrutinizing to inform their management.
Correlation analysis between biomechanical characteristics of lower extremities during front roundhouse kick in Taekwondo and effective scores of electronic protectors
Authors: Jia Mengyao , Ma Yong , Huang Ruifeng , Liu Lin , Wang Zhaoyi , Lin Shijie , Peng Qian , Xiong Jun , Zheng Weitao
Published: June 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study is to analyze the inherent relationship between the score values and the biomechanical characteristics of the forward kicking motion, we aim to identify the fundamental variables influencing the score values of the forward kicking motion and establish the key biomechanical factors that effectively trigger scoring in the forward kicking motion.

Methods: The DaeDo electronic scoring system was used with the Vicon optical motion capture system and the Kistler 3D force platform to obtain kinematic and kinetic variables of the front roundhouse kick motion. Linear bivariate correlation analysis and principal component analysis were used to analyze the associations between kinematic, kinetic variables, and scoring values, and summarize key biomechanical factors for effectively scoring.

Results: The peak ankle plantar flexion angle and knee extension torque of the kicking leg showed a significant negative correlation with scoring values (r < 0, p < 0.05), while other variables showed no statistical significance. The peak knee flexion angle and hip extension angular velocity of the supporting leg showed a significant positive correlation with scoring values (r > 0, p < 0.01), while the peak ankle plantar flexion torque showed a significant negative correlation with scoring values (r < 0, p < 0.05), and other variables showed no statistically significant correlation. The absolute values of eigenvectors of the first and second principal components, which included hip angular velocity, ankle angle, knee torque, and hip torque, were relatively large, indicating their strong influence on effective scoring triggering.

Conclusion: Maintaining ankle dorsiflexion and a larger knee flexion angle in the kicking leg is favorable for triggering scoring. Higher knee flexion angle and hip extension angular velocity in the supporting leg are also advantageous for triggering scoring. “Body posture” and “Strength” are key factors that effectively trigger scoring.
Next-generation of BBQ analogues that selectively target breast cancer
Authors: Baker Jennifer R. , Gilbert Jayne , O’Brien Nicholas S. , Russell Cecilia C. , McCluskey Adam , Sakoff Jennette A.
Published: June 2024

We previously reported on the interaction of 10-chloro-7H-benzo[de]benzo[4,5]imidazo[2,1-a]isoquinolin-7-one (10-Cl-BBQ) with the Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) and selective growth inhibition in breast cancer cell lines. We now report on a library of BBQ analogues with substituents on the phenyl and naphthyl rings for biological screening. Herein, we show that absence of the phenyl Cl of 10-Cl-BBQ to produce the simple BBQ molecule substantially enhanced the growth inhibitory effect with GI50 values of 0.001–2.1 μM in select breast cancer cell lines MCF-7, T47D, ZR-75-1, SKBR3, MDA-MB-468, BT20, BT474 cells, while having modest effects of 2.1–7 μM in other cell lines including HT29, U87, SJ-G2, A2780, DU145, BE2-C, MIA, MDA-MB-231 or normal breast cells, MCF10A (3.2 μM). The most potent growth inhibitory effect of BBQ was observed in the triple negative cell line, MDA-MB-468 with a GI50 value of 0.001 μM, presenting a 3,200-fold greater response than in the normal MCF10A breast cells. Additions of Cl, CH3, CN to the phenyl ring and ring expansion from benzoimidazole to dihydroquinazoline hindered the growth inhibitory potency of the BBQ analogues by blocking potential sites of CYP1 oxidative metabolism, while addition of Cl or NO2 to the naphthyl rings restored potency. In a cell-based reporter assay all analogues induced 1.2 to 10-fold AhR transcription activation. Gene expression analysis confirmed the induction of CYP1 oxygenases by BBQ. The CYP1 inhibitor α-naphthoflavone, and the SULT1A1 inhibitor quercetin significantly reduced the growth inhibitory effect of BBQ, confirming the importance of both phase I and II metabolic activation for growth inhibition. Conventional molecular modelling/docking revealed no significant differences between the binding poses of the most and least active analogues. More detailed DFT analysis at the DSD-PBEP86/Def-TZVPP level of theory could not identify significant geometric or electronic changes which would account for this varied AhR activation. Generation of Fukui functions at the same level of theory showed that CYP1 metabolism will primarily occur at the phenyl head group of the analogues, and substituents within this ring lead to lower cytotoxicity.
TaqMan-quantitative PCR assays applied in Neospora caninum knock-outs generated through CRISPR-Cas9 allow to determine the copy numbers of integrated dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase drug selectable markers
Authors: Rico-San Román Laura , Hänggeli Kai Pascal Alexander , Hemphill Andrew , Horcajo Pilar , Collantes-Fernández Esther , Ortega-Mora Luis Miguel , Boubaker Ghalia
Published: June 2024

As for many other organisms, CRISPR-Cas9 mediated genetic modification has gained increasing importance for the identification of vaccine candidates and drug targets in Neospora caninum, an apicomplexan parasite causing abortion in cattle and neuromuscular disease in dogs. A widely used approach for generating knock-out (KO) strains devoid of virulence factors is the integration of a drug selectable marker such as mutated dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase (mdhfr-ts) into the target gene, thus preventing the synthesis of respective protein and mediating resistance to pyrimethamine. However, CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis is not free of off-target effects, which can lead to integration of multiple mdhfr-ts copies into other sites of the genome. To determine the number of integrated mdhfr-ts in N. caninum, a duplex quantitative TaqMan PCR was developed. For this purpose, primers were designed that amplifies a 106 bp fragment from wild-type (WT) parasites corresponding to the single copy wtdhfrs-ts gene, as well as the mutated mdhfrs-ts present in KO parasites that confers resistance and were used simultaneously with primers amplifying the diagnostic NC5 gene. Thus, the dhfr-ts to NC5 ratio should be approximately 1 in WT parasites, while in KO parasites with a single integrated mdhrf-ts gene this ratio is doubled, and in case of multiple integration events even higher. This approach was applied to the Neospora KO strains NcΔGRA7 and NcΔROP40. For NcΔGRA7, the number of tachyzoites determined by dhfr-ts quantification was twice the number of tachyzoites determined by NC5 quantification, thus indicating that only one mdhfr-ts copy was integrated. The results obtained with the NcΔROP40 strain, however, showed that the number of dhfr-ts copies per genome was substantially higher, indicating that at least three copies of the selectable mdhfr-ts marker were integrated into the genomic DNA during gene editing by CRISPR-Cas9. This duplex TaqMan-qPCR provides a reliable and easy-to-use tool for assessing CRISPR-Cas9 mediated mutagenesis in WT N. caninum strains.
AI-supported approach for human-building interaction implemented at furniture scale
Authors: Bier Henriette , Hidding Arwin , Brancart Stijn , Luna-Navarro Alessandra , Khademi Seyran , van Engelenburg Casper
Published: June 2024

Human-Building Interaction (HBI) relies on sensor-actuator networks that are increasingly supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI). This paper presents a novel AI-supported Design-to-Robotic-Production-Assembly and -Operation (D2RPA&O) approach for reconfigurable furniture. It involves a multidisciplinary approach that relies on the integration of various domains such as architecture, robotics, computer, and material science. It contributes to the advancement of HBI by employing spatial reconfiguration relying on AI and lightweight material design, which is of relevance, particularly when the furniture consists of non-identical but similar components that are re−/ configured in a variety of possible combinations.
Evaluating coastal lagoon sustainability through the driver-pressure-state-impact-response approach: a study of Khenifiss Lagoon, southern Morocco
Authors: El Behja Hamza , El M’rini Abdelmounim , Nachite Driss , Bouchkara Mohammed , El Khalidi Khalid , Zourarah Bendahhou , Uddin Md Galal , Abioui Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Coastal lagoons are valuable ecosystems, providing socioeconomic benefits and supporting human populations and biodiversity. However, these systems face several challenges, making them vulnerable to both natural and human factors. In this study, we apply the Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) Approach to conduct a comprehensive socioeconomic and environmental assessment of the Khenifiss Lagoon to promote sustainable development and support decision-makers. Located on the southern Atlantic coast of Morocco, the lagoon was designated a natural reserve in 1962, a biological reserve in 1983, and a protected wetland under the Ramsar Convention since 1980. This study represents the initial endeavor to conduct a comprehensive global and multidisciplinary environmental assessment of the lagoon by using a wide range of data sources, including relevant publications and reports, satellite images and remote sensing data, field observations, and interviews, all analyzed under the DPSIR framework. Our findings show that both natural and human factors have an impact on the ecosystem. Natural Factors associated with the geomorphological features of the region likely contribute to the silting of the lagoon, possibly intensified by a large shipwreck stuck at its inlet. Meanwhile, human factors encompass population growth (at a rate of 2% per year), tourism, shellfish farming, fishing, shellfish harvesting, and salt extraction. Our results reveal significant changes in the lagoon’s condition in recent years, including a reduction in water body extent, a probable decrease in depth, and an increase in the accumulation of solid waste, plastics, and wastewater in three sectors spanning a total surface area of 464 ha (equivalent to 7% of the lagoon), a substantial expansion of the salt mining area encompassing 368 ha, and a remarkable loss of biodiversity, manifested in declining fish stocks and seabird populations. This study showed that the lagoon is positioned as a potential site for economic growth and serves to alert stakeholders and the local population to the ecosystem’s environmental issues. Based on the findings of this study, we highly recommend regulating human activities within the lagoon, the removal of the wreck at the entrance, proper waste management, community awareness programs, and strict monitoring and enforcement of regulations to protect the environment.
Iodine and other factors associated with fertility outcome following oil-soluble contrast medium hysterosalpingography: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Mathews Divya M. , Peart Jane M. , Sim Robert G. , Johnson Neil P. , O’Sullivan Susannah , Derraik José G B , Hofman Paul L.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To examine factors associated with fertility following hysterosalpingography (HSG) using an oil-soluble contrast medium (OSCM).

Design

In a prospective cohort study on 196 women undergoing OSCM HSG, we showed that iodine excess was almost universal (98%) and mild subclinical hypothyroidism was frequent (38%). Here, we report the analyses of secondary outcomes examining factors associated with the likelihood of pregnancy following the HSG.

Setting

Auckland, New Zealand (2019–2021).

Sample

196 women with primary or secondary infertility who underwent OSCM HSG.

Methods

Baseline and serial urine iodine concentrations (UIC) and thyroid function tests were measured over six months following the HSG. Pregnancy and treatment with levothyroxine during the study period were documented.

Results

Following OSCM HSG, pregnancy rates were 49% in women aged <40 years (77/158) but considerably lower (16%) among those ≥40 years (6/38). Similarly, live birth rates were markedly lower in women ≥40 years (17%; 1/6) versus <40 years (73%; 56/77). 29% of participants were iodine deficient at baseline despite advice recommending iodine fortification. Following HSG, the likelihood of pregnancy in women with moderate iodine deficiency was 64% higher than in women with normal iodine levels (p=0.048). Among women aged <40 years who had subclinical hypothyroidism (n=75), levothyroxine treatment was associated with higher pregnancy rates compared to untreated women [63% (26/48) vs 37% (10/27), respectively; p=0.047].

Conclusion

OSCM HSG was associated with higher pregnancy rates in women ≤40 than in those aged >40 years. Iodine deficiency was relatively common in this cohort, and increased iodine levels from OSCM exposure may contribute to the improved fertility observed with this procedure.

Trial registration

This study is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR: 12620000738921) https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12620000738921.
The association between weight change patterns and obesity-related complex multimorbidity: evidence from NHANES
Authors: Gong Hong-Jian , Tang Xingyao , Zhou Jian-Bo
Published: June 2024

Objective

Obesity is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which has been the leading cause of death nowadays. The aim of this study is to examine the association between total changes in body mass index (BMI) across adulthood and the risk of obesity-related complex multimorbidity in elderly, characterizing the capacity of BMI waves in predicting major chronic diseases.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 15,520 participants were analyzed from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 and 2018. BMI was categorized as obesity (≥30.0 kg/m²), overweight (25.0–29.9 kg/m²), normal weight (18.5–24.9 kg/m²), and underweight (<18.5 kg/m²). Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (CIs) for the relationship between BMI change patterns and major health outcomes included hypertension, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, and population attributable fractions (PAFs) of BMI were evaluated.

Results

In comparison with participants who remained non-obese, those who are stable obese showed the highest risks of developing at least one chronic disease in later life, with odds ratios of 2.76 (95% CI: 2.20 to 3.45) from age 25 years to 10 years before baseline, 2.90 (2.28 to 3.68) from age 25 years to baseline, and 2.49 (2.11 to 2.95) in the 10-year period before baseline. Moving from non-obese to obese weight-change pattern in all periods (from age 25 years to 10 years before baseline: OR = 1.82; 95% CI, 1.57 to 2.11; from age 25 years to baseline: OR = 1.87; 95% CI, 1.59 to 2.19; from 10 years before baseline to baseline: OR = 1.62; 95% CI, 1.26 to 2.08) and moving from obese to non-obese, the 10-year period before baseline (OR = 1.89; 95% CI, 1.39 to 2.57) was associated with increased risk of chronic diseases. Midlife obesity status can explain the 8.6% risk of occurrence of the chronic diseases in elderly.

Conclusions

Maintaining a stable healthy weight and losing weight in early adulthood and midlife are important for better life quality during the aging process. More effective strategies and policies to reduce the prevalence of obesity are needed.
Integrative analysis of cancer multimodality data identifying COPS5 as a novel biomarker of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Dai Yutong , Li Jingmei , Yamamoto Keita , Goyama Susumu , Loza Martin , Park Sung-Joon , Nakai Kenta
Published: June 2024

Preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases requires accurate clinical biomarkers, which remains challenging. Recently, advanced computational approaches have accelerated the discovery of promising biomarkers from high-dimensional multimodal data. Although machine-learning methods have greatly contributed to the research fields, handling data sparseness, which is not unusual in research settings, is still an issue as it leads to limited interpretability and performance in the presence of missing information. Here, we propose a novel pipeline integrating joint non-negative matrix factorization (JNMF), identifying key features within sparse high-dimensional heterogeneous data, and a biological pathway analysis, interpreting the functionality of features by detecting activated signaling pathways. By applying our pipeline to large-scale public cancer datasets, we identified sets of genomic features relevant to specific cancer types as common pattern modules (CPMs) of JNMF. We further detected COPS5 as a potential upstream regulator of pathways associated with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). COPS5 exhibited co-overexpression with MYC, TP53, and BCL2, known DLBCL marker genes, and its high expression was correlated with a lower survival probability of DLBCL patients. Using the CRISPR-Cas9 system, we confirmed the tumor growth effect of COPS5, which suggests it as a novel prognostic biomarker for DLBCL. Our results highlight that integrating multiple high-dimensional data and effectively decomposing them to interpretable dimensions unravels hidden biological importance, which enhances the discovery of clinical biomarkers.
Heterologous booster vaccination enhances antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 by improving Tfh function and increasing B-cell clonotype SHM frequency
Authors: Song Yanli , Wang Jiaolei , Yang Zhihui , He Qian , Bao Chunting , Xie Ying , Sun Yufang , Li Shuyan , Quan Yaru , Yang Huijie , Li Changgui
Published: June 2024

Heterologous prime-boost has broken the protective immune response bottleneck of the COVID-19 vaccines. however, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Here, we investigated antibody responses and explored the response of germinal center (GC) to priming with inactivated vaccines and boosting with heterologous adenoviral-vectored vaccines or homologous inactivated vaccines in mice. Antibody responses were dramatically enhanced by both boosting regimens. Heterologous immunization induced more robust GC activation, characterized by increased Tfh cell populations and enhanced helper function. Additionally, increased B-cell activation and antibody production were observed in a heterologous regimen. Libra-seq was used to compare the differences of S1-, S2- and NTD-specific B cells between homologous and heterologous vaccination, respectively. S2-specific CD19+ B cells presented increased somatic hypermutations (SHMs), which were mainly enriched in plasma cells. Moreover, a heterologous booster dose promoted the clonal expansion of B cells specific to S2 and NTD regions. In conclusion, the functional role of Tfh and B cells following SARS-CoV-2 heterologous vaccination may be important for modulating antibody responses. These findings provide new insights for the development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines that induce more robust antibody response.
Construction of a predictive model of 2–3 cm ground-glass nodules developing into invasive lung adenocarcinoma using high-resolution CT
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Qu Lin , Zhang Haihua , Wang Ying , Gao Guizhou , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Tao
Published: June 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to analyze the imaging risk factors for the development of 2–3 cm ground-glass nodules (GGN) for invasive lung adenocarcinoma and to establish a nomogram prediction model to provide a reference for the pathological prediction of 2–3 cm GGN and the selection of surgical procedures.

Methods

We reviewed the demographic, imaging, and pathological information of 596 adult patients who underwent 2–3 cm GGN resection, between 2018 and 2022, in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of the Air Force Medical University. Based on single factor analysis, the regression method was used to analyze multiple factors, and a nomogram prediction model for 2–3 cm GGN was established.

Results

(1) The risk factors for the development of 2–3 cm GGN during the invasion stage of the lung adenocarcinoma were pleural depression sign (OR = 1.687, 95%CI: 1.010–2.820), vacuole (OR = 2.334, 95%CI: 1.222–4.460), burr sign (OR = 2.617, 95%CI: 1.008–6.795), lobulated sign (OR = 3.006, 95%CI: 1.098–8.227), bronchial sign (OR = 3.134, 95%CI: 1.556–6.310), diameter of GGN (OR = 3.118, 95%CI: 1.151–8.445), and CTR (OR = 172.517, 95%CI: 48.023–619.745). (2) The 2–3 cm GGN risk prediction model was developed based on the risk factors with an AUC of 0.839; the calibration curve Y was close to the X-line, and the decision curve was drawn in the range of 0.0–1.0.

Conclusion

We analyzed the risk factors for the development of 2–3  cm GGN during the invasion stage of the lung adenocarcinoma. The predictive model developed based on the above factors had some clinical significance.
Screening and characterization of a novel linear B-cell epitope on orf virus F1L protein
Authors: Zhang Zhibang , Zhang Xiaoyan , Feng Kang , Ba Shufan , Yang Taotao , Gong Jinxiang , Yang Ziyin , Zhang Hong , Sun Zilong , Li Pengcheng
Published: June 2024

Background

Orf, also known as contagious ecthyma (CE), is an acute, contagious zoonotic disease caused by the orf virus (ORFV). The F1L protein is a major immunodominant protein on the surface of ORFV and can induce the production of neutralizing antibodies.

Methods

The prokaryotic expression system was used to produce the recombinant F1L protein of ORFV, which was subsequently purified and used to immunize mice. Positive hybridoma clones were screened using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The reactivity and specificity of the monoclonal antibody (mAb) were verified through Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence (IFA). The linear antigenic epitope specific to the mAb was identified through Western blot, using truncated F1L proteins expressed in eukaryotic cells. A multiple sequence alignment of the ORFV reference strains was performed to evaluate the degree of conservation of the identified epitope.

Results

After three rounds of subcloning, a mAb named Ba-F1L was produced. Ba-F1L was found to react with both the exogenously expressed F1L protein and the native F1L protein from ORFV-infected cells, as confirmed by Western blot and IFA. The mAb recognized the core epitope 103CKSTCPKEM111, which is highly conserved among various ORFV strains, as shown by homologous sequence alignment.

Conclusion

The mAb produced in the present study can be used as a diagnostic reagent for detecting ORFV and as a basic tool for exploring the mechanisms of orf pathogenesis. In addition, the identified linear epitope may be valuable for the development of epitope-based vaccines.
Age over sex: evaluating gut microbiota differences in healthy Chinese populations
Authors: Wu Jiacheng , Shen Hexiao , Lv Yongling , He Jing , Xie Xiaotian , Xu Zhiyue , Yang Pengcheng , Qian Wei , Bai Tao , Hou Xiaohua
Published: June 2024

Age and gender have been recognized as two pivotal covariates affecting the composition of the gut microbiota. However, their mediated variations in microbiota seem to be inconsistent across different countries and races. In this study, 613 individuals, whom we referred to as the “healthy” population, were selected from 1,018 volunteers through rigorous selection using 16S rRNA sequencing. Three enterotypes were identified, namely, Escherichia–Shigella, mixture (Bacteroides and Faecalibacterium), and Prevotella. Moreover, 11 covariates that explain the differences in microbiota were determined, with age being the predominant factor. Furthermore, age-related differences in alpha diversity, beta diversity, and core genera were observed in our cohort. Remarkably, after adjusting for 10 covariates other than age, abundant genera that differed between age groups were demonstrated. In contrast, minimal differences in alpha diversity, beta diversity, and differentially abundant genera were observed between male and female individuals. Furthermore, we also demonstrated the age trajectories of several well-known beneficial genera, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-producing genera, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing genera. Overall, our study further elucidated the effects mediated by age and gender on microbiota differences, which are of significant importance for a comprehensive understanding of the gut microbiome spectrum in healthy individuals.
Exploring causal correlations of inflammatory biomarkers in idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus: insights from bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Lu Jianglong , Wang Xianpeng , Xu Fanjie , Rao Changjun , Guo Yuhang , Su Zhipeng , Chen Siyan , Li Qun
Published: June 2024

Background and objective

Neuroinflammatory processes have been identified as playing a crucial role in the pathophysiology of various neurodegenerative diseases, including idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). iNPH, defined as a common disease of cognitive impairment in older adults, poses major challenges for therapeutic interventions owing to the stringent methodological requirements of relevant studies, clinical heterogeneity, unclear etiology, and uncertain diagnostic criteria. This study aims to assess the relationship between circulating inflammatory biomarkers and iNPH risk using bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) combined with meta-analysis.

Methods

In our bidirectional MR study, genetic data from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) involving 1,456 iNPH cases and 409,726 controls of European ancestry were employed. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with exposures served as instrumental variables for estimating the causal relationships between iNPH and 132 types of circulating inflammatory biomarkers from corresponding GWAS data. Causal associations were primarily examined using the inverse variance-weighted method, supplemented by MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode analyses. In the results, heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q test. Horizontal pleiotropy was evaluated through the MR-Egger intercept test and the MR pleiotropy residual sum and outliers test. Sensitivity analysis was conducted through leave-one-out analysis. Reverse MR analyses were performed to mitigate bias from reverse causality. Meta-analyses of identical inflammatory biomarkers from both data sources strengthened the findings.

Results

Results indicated a genetically predicted association between Interleukin-16 (IL-16) [OR: 1.228, 95% CI: 1.049–1.439, p = 0.011], TNF-related apoptosis ligand (TRAIL) [OR: 1.111, 95% CI: 1.019–1.210, p = 0.017] and Urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) [OR: 1.303, 95% CI: 1.025–1.658, p = 0.031] and the risk of iNPH. Additionally, changes in human Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (hGDNF) [OR: 1.044, 95% CI: 1.006–1.084, p = 0.023], Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) [OR: 1.058, 95% CI: 1.020, 1.098, p = 0.003] and Interleukin-12p70 (IL-12p70) [OR: 0.897, 95% CI: 0.946–0.997, p = 0.037] levels were identified as possible consequences of iNPH.

Conclusion

Our MR study of inflammatory biomarkers and iNPH, indicated that IL-16, TRAIL, and uPA contribute to iNPH pathogenesis. Furthermore, iNPH may influence the expression of hGDNF, MMP-1, and IL-12p70. Therefore, targeting specific inflammatory biomarkers could be promising strategy for future iNPH treatment and prevention.
CT perfusion for predicting intracranial atherosclerotic middle cerebral artery occlusion
Authors: Wang Zigao , Yasheng Abudoukeyoumu , Ling Yifeng , Zhao Hongchen , Mao Yiting , Yang Shilin , Cao Wenjie
Published: June 2024

Backgrounds and purpose

Identifying the underlying cause of acute middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) as intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) or embolism is essential for determining the optimal treatment strategy before endovascular thrombectomy. We aimed to evaluate whether baseline computed tomography perfusion (CTP) characteristics could differentiate ICAS-related MCAO from embolic MCAO.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of the clinical and baseline CTP data from patients who underwent endovascular thrombectomy for acute MCAO between January 2018 and December 2022. Core volume growth rate was defined as core volume on CTP divided by onset to CTP time. Multivariate logistic analysis was utilized to identify independent predictors for ICAS-related acute MCAO, and the diagnostic performance of these predictors was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

Among the 97 patients included (median age, 71 years; 60% male), 31 (32%) were diagnosed with ICAS-related MCAO, and 66 (68%) had embolism-related MCAO. The ICAS group was younger (p = 0.002), had a higher proportion of males (p = 0.04) and smokers (p = 0.001), a lower prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) (p < 0.001), lower NIHSS score at admission (p = 0.04), smaller core volume (p < 0.001), slower core volume growth rate (p < 0.001), and more frequent core located deep in the brain (p < 0.001) compared to the embolism group. Multivariate logistic analysis identified core volume growth rate (aOR 0.46, 95% CI 0.26–0.83, p = 0.01) as an independent predictor of ICAS-related MCAO. A cutoff value of 2.5 mL/h for core volume growth rate in predicting ICAS-related MCAO was determined from the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, with a sensitivity of 81%, specificity of 80%, positive predictive value of 66%, and negative predictive value of 90%.

Conclusion

Slow core volume growth rate identified on baseline CTP can predict ICAS-related MCAO. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm and validate these findings.