bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluasi Pelaksanaan Program Madrasah Unggulan
Authors: Taufik Opik Abdurrahman
Published: November 2022

Tulisan ini melihat pelaksanaan program madrasah unggulan, yaitu Madrasah Aliyah Negeri Insan Cendekia Ogan Komering Ilir (MAN IC OKI) di Sumatera Selatan, dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif. Hasil riset mengungkapkan data bahwa pelaksanaan program MAN IC OKI mengacu pada pedoman pelaksanaan yang ditetapkan oleh Direktorat Pendidikan Islam tahun 2013. Hal ini tercermin dari pelaksanaannya (pembentukan dan lokasi MAN IC OKI, rekrutmen siswa, guru, staf, kurikulum), namun ada kendala pada perekrutan guru karena tidak semuanya berstatus PNS. Pelaksanaan proses pembelajaran hingga target keluaran yang ditetapkan oleh MAN IC OKI tunduk pada standar pedoman yang dibuat oleh Direktorat Pendidikan Islam. Pelaksanaan program madrasah didukung juga lingkungan belajar yang sesuai dan sarana lengkap serta loyalitas pendidik yang tinggi ditambah manajemen bisnis yang terbuka dan demokratis, membuat proses pembelajaran berjalan efektif. Dan lulusan (alumni MAN IC OKI berhasil meraih prestasi tinggi), mampu bersaing bahkan pada beberapa momen dapat menggeser posisi Madrasah Aliyah (MA) dan Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) lainya di Sumatera Selatan.
Mencari Solusi Defisit Ulama
Authors: Palahuddin Palahuddin
Published: November 2022

Penelitian ini mendeskripsikan tentang dinamika Muhammadiyah dalam mencari solusi kelangkaan ulama. Penelitian berbentuk  kualitatif dengan pendekatan fenomenologi. Penggalian data dilakukan dengan teknik observasi, dokumentasi dan wawancara mendalam (in depth interview) dengan para informan yang ditentukan dengan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Data yang terkumpul dianalisis menggunakan metode analisis interaktif Miles dan Huberman. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa: [1]. Muhammadiyah belum merumuskan tentang konsep ulama secara detail. Namun demikian, terdapat minimal 2 karakteristik ulama yang menjadi idealisme para tokoh Muhammadiyah, yaitu [a]. Menguasai al-‘ulum al-shari’yyah (ilmu-ilmu keagamaan); [b]. Terlibat dan berbaur dalam kegiatan masyarakat (al-ihtimam bi umur al-ummah); [2]. Terdapat 3 upaya Muhammadiyah dalam mengatasi defisit ulama, yaitu: mendirikan Pendidikan Ulama Tarjih Muhammadiyah (PUTM), revitalisasi peran pesantren, dan membangun kerjasama dengan Asia Muslim Charity Foundation (AMCF). Implikasi teoritis penelitian ini adalah adanya model baru kaderisasi ulama dengan membangun jaringan kerjasama institusional antara Muhammadiyah dengan AMCF. Sedangkan implikasi praktis dari penelitian ini adalah perlunya kajian mendalam tentang efektivitas pendidikan ma’had sebagai media kaderisasi ulama Muhammadiyah.
FORMING OF A BIMETALLIC ELEMENT FOR THE RESISTANCE ELEMENT SOLDERING METHOD
Authors: SCHREK Alexander , VANKO Branislav , SEJČ Pavol
Published: November 2022

The joining of sheet metal parts produced in the material combination of Fe-Fe, Fe-Al as well as Fe-thermoplastic and Al-thermoplastic can be realized by the Resistance Element Soldering (RES). Extruded bimetallic elements were used to form the overlap joint. The semi-finished product for extrusions was a Cu 99.9 tube with dimensions φ6 × 0.5 mm and length 9 mm, filled with Sn60Pb40 solder. “T” shaped overprints were produced in two ways. Simulation in the ANSYS software environment was chosen to optimize, select the appropriate forming process, and design the geometry of the functional parts of the forming tool, allowing to use only one extrusion forming operation. The results of the simulations are the magnitudes of stresses and strains, and different head shape geometries of the bimetallic element extrusions of the three proposed forming methods. The task was to achieve extrusions without defects of the Cu tube shell, such as corrugations and wrinkles. The geometry was observed and compared by macroanalysis of extrusion sections made on a laboratory forming tool.
Repercussões do uso de cigarros eletrônicos no sistema respiratório
Authors: Veloso Thamires Mendes , Pereira Ana Beatriz da Silva , Vargas Edimar Júnior Catroli , Alencar Jean Magno Soares , Segato João Victor Baiocco , Celestino Filho Jonacyr Elias , Christ Maryana Wetler , Veloso Brenda Mendes
Published: November 2022

Desde 2006, com o início da comercialização dos cigarros eletrônicos, foi observado um aumento exponencial de seu consumo. Essa inovação no mercado foi apontada inicialmente como uma substituição vantajosa dos cigarros convencionais pelos Dispositivos Eletrônicos de Fumar (DEFs), em virtude da ausência do processo de combustão para produção de fumaça no vaping. No entanto, o crescente uso desses dispositivos evidenciou, em 2019, nos Estados Unidos da América o aumento de doenças que acometem o sistema respiratório. Diante do exposto, a questão central para o presente estudo foi definida como: quais são as repercussões do uso de cigarros eletrônicos no sistema respiratório? Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo principal descrever os principais achados da relação entre o uso de CE e o trato respiratório. A metodologia utilizada tratou-se de uma Revisão Integrativa de Literatura. Neste contexto, realizou-se um estudo bibliográfico nas bases de dados PubMed, MEDLINE e LILACS, na qual foram selecionados 20 estudos que passaram por um processo criterioso de triagem. No tocante aos resultados dos estudos avaliados, foi analisado pacientes com lesão pulmonar associada ao uso de CE. Esses indivíduos apresentaram maior necessidade de oxigênio, opacidade bilateral do espaço aéreo na imagem de tórax, além disso foram relatados sintomas gastrointestinais. Outro fator avaliado foi a composição desses dispositivos, sendo o tetrahidrocanabinol (THC) apontado como potencial risco para o desenvolvimento de lesão pulmonar. Ademais, os achados nocivos incluem a presença de estresse oxidativo, efeito pró-inflamatório no epitélio pulmonar, imagens de tomografia computadorizada similares ao quadro de pneumonia por hipersensibilidade, disfunção endotelial e entre outros. Destarte, o consumo de CE evidenciou repercussões nocivas ao sistema respiratório, além de elucidar implicações importantes nos demais sistemas, sobretudo, gastrointestinais e cardiovascular. Todavia, o ambiente científico ainda requer novos estudos para a confirmação, o esclarecimento da fisiopatologia e um maior entendimento das consequências do uso de CE a longo prazo.
Modeling, Simulation and Group Control of Distributed Static Series Compensators
Authors: Fajri Poria , Afsharnia Saeed , Nazarpour Daryoush , Tavallaei Ali
Published: November 2022

This study investigates the new concept of Distributed Static Series Compensator (DSSC); a small, light weight cylinder that clamps directly onto the transmission line conductor and has the ability to alter the impedance of the power lines in order to increase power transfer capability and maximize economic value of the transmission system. A graphic-based simulation model of the DSSC is presented in PSCAD/EMTDC which takes into account the practical design considerations of such a device and can be considered as a starting point for extensive simulation studies. The performance and accuracy of the model is validated by simulation and comprehensive results are presented. Also a harmonic analysis of the electromagnetic model is carried out in order to investigate the amount of harmonic injection of each model and based on the results, different control strategies are applied to a group of DSSCs distributed along a transmission line. The effect of each control strategy on active power flow, THD injection and group response time is compared by simulations carried out in PSCAD/EMTDC and the most suitable control scheme for operating a group of DSSCs distributed along a typical 138 kV transmission line is presented both for capacitive and inductive compensating modes. 
The Singer Siblings: Different Views of Hassidic Life
Authors: Cohen Ioannides Mara W.
Published: November 2022

The renowned Yiddish writers, brothers Isaac Bashevis and Israel Joshua Singer, shaped the modern understanding of Hassidic life before the Second World War. Their stories and autobiographies describe the Old Country from a male perspective with an emphasis on the Hassidic law court their father presided over. However, they minimize or ignore the female participants in their stories. Their mother, sister, grandmother, and women of the community are flat presentations who love the feeding their families, have little education, and have a narrow world view. Their description is not wrong, rather it’s incomplete. This study considers the importance of their oft-forgotten sister equally talented Yiddish writer Esther Singer Kreitman, in creating our understanding of this Hassidic life. While the Singers were masters in the Yiddish literary world well published and received, their sister has been overlooked until recently partially because of her own insecurities and because of the misogyny of the publishing world then. Some scholars have let her mental-health issues and their own anti-women ideologies influence their critiques, but most critics praise her work as insightful. Yet, her perceptions of the pre-World War II Polish Hassidic community are as valid as her brothers’.
Schwartz, Mimi. Good Neighbors, Bad Times Revisited: New Echoes of My Father’s German Village. New edition. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 2021.
Authors: Anderson Anna Marie
Published: November 2022

Review of Schwartz, Mimi. Good Neighbors, Bad Times Revisited: New Echoes of My Father’s German Village. New edition. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 2021.
Electrocardiography Diagnostic performance in the assessment of significant coronary artery disease and its anatomical site in comparison with coronary angiography among Nigerians: A pilot study
Authors: Dodiyi-Manuel, Tamunobelema , Auchi Edafe Emmanuel
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Coronary angiography (CAG) is a useful diagnostic tool in patients with suspected CAD especially in patients that are at high risk. CAG is the gold standard for diagnosis of significant coronary stenosis. However, it can be associated with certain risks. The use of noninvasive assessment tools for predicting CAD is considered because it offers safety, patient convenience, and faster performance. The aim of the study was to assess the predictive value of 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: 59 consecutive patients aged 40 to 98 years with new onset of chest pain that were referred to the cardiac catheterization laboratory of Bayelsa Specialist Hospital, Yenagoa October 2017 and November, 2018. At admission, a resting standard 12-lead ECG was recorded and the ECG changes were interpreted by the cardiologist. The ECG was recorded as normal or abnormal depending on regional changes in ST segment (ischemic-appearing ST depression or elevation), T-wave inversion (≥ 1 mm) and Q-wave appearance (≥ 0.04 s or ≥ 25% of R-wave amplitude). The III, aVF and II leads were used to detect RCA involvement; V2 or V3 and aVL to detect LCx involvement, and V2 or V3, V1, and V4 were used to detect LAD involvement. ECGs were taken at a paper speed of 25 mm/s and calibration of 10 mm. Results: ECG correctly detected significant stenosis in 21 out of 59 patients with an overall sensitivity per patient of 59.5% and specificity per patient of 59.1%. ECG had the highest sensitivity with LAD involvement LAD (37.3%) and RCA (25.8%), respectively. ECG had a probability of indicating coronary vessel disease in persons with the disease (positive predictive value) 71%, whereas, negative ECG findings were less likely to indicate the absence of disease (a negative predictive value = 46.4%. Similarly, ECG correctly classifying patients as having LAD, RCA, and LCx diseases (66.7%, 70%, and 66.7% respectively) as compared to its ability to correctly classify persons without the respective vessel disease (33.3%, 55.6%, and 55.6%). Among the patients, 59.3% were correctly identified Conclusions: ECG has low sensitivity and specificity for predicting coronary artery stenosis with accuracy ranged 59.5% and 59.1% based on coronary artery analysis.
Relationship Between Annual Airborne Pollen Levels And Occurrence Of Thyroid, Skin, Esophagus, Kidney And Ovary Cancers, And Leukemia, Multiple Myeloma And All Cancers: A Retrospective Study Based On The National Registry Database Of Cancer Incidence In Japan, 1975–2015
Authors: Awaya Akira , Kuroiwa Yoshiyuki
Published: November 2022

Background: In Japan, pollen counts increased between 1977 and 1987, including three peaks (1978- 1980, 1982, 1984-1986) coinciding with Kawasaki disease (KD) outbreaks. Epidemiological findings have been gradually accumulated that KD and related specific intractable diseases and further cancers may be correlated to pollen exposure (PE). Methods and results: To elucidate the effects of PE on occurrence of thyroid, skin, esophagus, kidney and ovary cancers, and leukemia, multiple myeloma and all cancers, we evaluated the annual onsets of malignant tumors in relation to pollen counts using data from a national database. Increased rates of these cancers were observed during pollen counts increasing period between 1977 and 1987. Significant correlations were observed between the annual number of newly registered patients (nRPs) and the annual pollen levels (PL) measured with a lag of 2 years for skin and kidney cancers, 4 years for thyroid cancer, 6 years for skin, esophagus cancers, leukemia and multiple myeloma, 8 years for thyroid cancer, and 2,3 and 6 years for all cancers. Peaks of number of thyroid cancer in 2013, 1990 and 1980 are discussed about as compared with other cancers regarding effect of radioactive pollutants occurred from three nuclear plant accidents. Conclusion: Data suggest newly that the cumulative effects of PE within 2,3,4,6,8 years prior to diagnosis might possibly trigger incidence of eight cancers and malignant tumors.
Confirmed feasibility of a satellite tracker attachment method on small juvenile hawksbill turtles Eretmochelys imbricata
Authors: Diggins RL , Grimm J , Mendez D , Jones K , Hamann M , Bell I , Ariel E
Published: November 2022

Satellite trackers can be used for studying sea turtle movement, illuminating their migrations and behaviours. However, many studies have focused on adult turtles, with uneven species representation, despite the importance of understanding movement and habitat use of turtles at all life-stages. Furthermore, few publications detail successful satellite tracker attachment methods, particularly for juveniles. Smaller-sized juvenile sea turtles often have an irregularly shaped carapace and are fast growing, rendering the attachment of rigid trackers in a safe and durable manner challenging. Juvenile hawksbill turtles’ specific carapace shape and imbricated scute arrangement further complicate satellite tracker attachment compared to juveniles of other turtle species. This study’s objective was to confirm the feasibility of an attachment method that would allow small-sized juvenile hawksbill turtles (~267-345 mm curved carapace length) to continue growing, without tracker loss or damage to underlying scutes. Replica trackers were made of resin (simulating Wildlife Computer Spot-387 trackers), and attached with epoxy, silicone and neoprene, using a technique modified from those used on neonate loggerheads and Kemp’s ridleys. Throughout the study (3.5 mo), replica trackers remained attached, the turtles grew up to 114% heavier and 25% longer, and all turtles appeared clinically healthy and active. Furthermore, all scutes were undamaged after tracker removal. As a critically endangered species, the paucity of data on hawksbill turtles, and specifically juveniles, can hinder evidence-based management decision-making. The improved ability to satellite track juvenile hawksbills can, therefore, help better our understanding of their ecology and inform management and conservation practices for this species.
Digital Technology Healthcare Solutions in an Era of Moving Populations and Chronic Illnesses: Are We Being Realistically Smart?
Authors: Ansaa Osae-Larbi Judith
Published: November 2022

In 2015, the world recorded its highest numbers of international migrants and forced displacement since World War II. With this historic rise in migrants, refugees, and displaced persons around the world, there is a huge risk of chronic illness burden on healthcare systems. Thus, healthcare systems may need to incorporate innovative digital healthcare solutions into their processes and procedures. The purpose of this article is to present the argument that for effective prevention and management of chronic illnesses in ever-increasing migrant societies to be achieved, mobile digital healthcare technologies must be realistically smart and strategically adopted. Beginning with an overview of the current global migration trend, this article considers the implications of this trend for chronic illnesses and the potential for mobile health technologies to support achievement of healthcare outcomes. It highlights three core reasons why digital innovations may be limited as tools for helping to address the global chronic illness challenge and identifies important directions for mobile health technology developers, healthcare professionals, researchers, government and funding agencies, and public health ministries, with a focus on the strategic development and adoption of ‘realistically smart’ phones. The article concludes with recommendations for research and public health education.
Pain During Illusory Own Arm Movement: A Study in Immersive Virtual Reality
Authors: Zanini Alessandro , Montalti Martina , Caola Barbara , Leadbetter Antony , Martini Matteo
Published: November 2022

Previous studies have demonstrated that the vision of one’s own body, or of external embodied limbs, can lead to pain relieving outcomes. Analgesic effects have also been related to the vision of illusory limb movements. Nonetheless, whether these two processes can be put together to obtain a summatory analgesic effect is not yet clear. The aim of this work was to investigate if it is possible to combine the analgesic effects of looking at one’s own body with those deriving from the illusion that one’s own limb is moving. Thirty-eight healthy participants underwent four visual conditions in immersive virtual reality while their heat pain thresholds were measured. In different conditions the subject watched from a first-person perspective: i) a still virtual arm, ii) a moving virtual arm, iii) a still non-corporeal object, and iv) a moving non-corporeal object. All participants were asked to keep their arms completely still during the visual exposures. After each condition, participants answered questions about their illusory experience. Our results show that the vision of the ‘own’ body significantly increased participants’ pain threshold as compared to the vision of the non-corporeal object. However, no statistically significant analgesic effect of vision of the virtual arm movement was found. The implications and limitations of this study are discussed.
An Overview of Atopic Dermatitis with a Focus on Nano-Interventions
Authors: Kakkar Vandita , Kumar Manoj , Saini Komal
Published: November 2022

With nano-based products becoming ubiquitous across all therapeutic areas, especially the area of skin care, it has become imperative to review the correlation between the unmet needs and the pipelines of available products. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is prevalent across different regions of the world with an incidence rate varying from 15–30% in children and adults. The pathogenesis of AD is a complex interplay between defects in skin barrier function, environmental and infectious agents, and immune abnormalities. Furthermore, although the role of reactive oxygen species has been studied in AD and other skin diseases to some extent, its importance in AD has rarely been investigated. The limitations associated with the use of currently available therapies like topical corticosteroids (first-line) and/or topical calcineurin inhibitors, and the use of other over-the-counter products to manage the sleep disturbances and skin infections, create a need for other innovative solutions. Nano-intervention forms a large panel of delivery aids, including lipidic and polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, silica nanoparticles, hydrogels, and several other delivery systems. These interventions are mainly designed to achieve higher drug encapsulation, greater stability, and higher skin permeation. This review aims to give an overview of the epidemiology of AD, the pathogenic events, and the challenges present with currently available therapies. There is a special focus on the recent developments in various nanocarrier technologies for treating AD.
Association of a Biomarker-Based Frailty Index with Telomere Length in Older American Adults: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2002
Authors: Bello Ghalib A. , Chiu Yueh-Hsiu Mathilda , Dumancas Gerard G.
Published: November 2022

Objectives: To study the link between frailty and cellular senescence, the authors examined the association of leukocyte telomere length (LTL) with a recently introduced measure of subclinical frailty that is based entirely on laboratory test biomarkers (FI-LAB).

Methods: This study was conducted on a random sample of 1,890 Americans aged ≥60 years. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the relationship between FI-LAB and LTL. Secondary analyses were performed to identify the individual biomarkers driving the association between FI-LAB and LTL.

Results: A statistically significant association was found between FI-LAB and LTL after adjusting for multiple covariates, indicating that higher FI-LAB scores are associated with shorter telomeres. Secondary analyses revealed that this association is driven largely by a small number of FI-LAB biomarkers independently linked with telomere shortening.

Conclusion: The study results established a link between subclinical frailty (FI-LAB) and cellular ageing, which may help elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms that give rise to frailty.
Tourism Development for Economic Growth of the Mojokerto Region
Authors: Basalamah Muhammad Ridwan , Mawardi Moh. Cholid
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this research is how to implement strategy development to increase regional economic growth and what are the positive implications of implementing strategy development to increase regional economic growth in Mojokerto Regency, East Java. Methodology. The data analysis method used in this study is the analysis of the interaction patterns of Miles and Huberman of Data Collection, Data Reduction, Data Presentation, and Conclusions and Verification. Results show governance in the development of tourism-based village potential in Mojokerto Regency, especially Ketapanrame Village, is proof that the village government can invite the community to work together to realize a common goal. From this, it can be said that village officials or village heads in particular can give trust to the community but not all leaders can do this. With the existence of several tours such as the Ganjaran park and Sumber Gempong, the Trawas Village Head admits that the community's economic level is slowly getting better.
Why Do Companies Purchase Their Own Stock?
Authors: Schauer Paul C.
Published: November 2022

Common theories as to why companies purchase their stock include signaling to the market the stock is selling at a discount, using treasury stock for the issuance of contingent shares, as a substitute for dividends, and increasing earnings per share. These theories are tested by examining the treasury stock transactions from 2016 to 2021 of the 100 largest companies in the S&P 500. Although each of these motivations has merit, the results show that none provides a dominant cause for the purchase of treasury shares. An alternative cause is proposed.
Effect of Metal Film Thickness on Strain-Sensing Performance of Crack-Based Stretchable Hybrid Piezoresistive Electrode
Authors: Noh Ji-Yeon , Kim Mirae , Kim Jong-Man
Published: November 2022

In recent decades, many research efforts have been devoted to developing high-performance stretchable strain sensors due to their potential for application in various emerging wearable sensor systems. This work presents a facile yet highly efficient way of modulating the sensing performance of a thin metal film/conductive composite hybrid piezoresistor-based stretchable strain sensor by simply controlling the metal film thickness. The hybrid strain sensor can be simply fabricated by sputtering a thin platinum (Pt) film onto a silver nanowire (AgNW)/dragon skin (DS) composite substrate prepared via a facile embed-and-transfer process in a reproducible manner. The density of the network-shaped mechanical crack induced in the Pt film tended to decrease with increasing the Pt thickness, thereby leading to a higher gauge factor of the sensor. The fabricated hybrid strain sensor also exhibited a large stretchability of 150% owing to its electrical robustness under strain, based on the unique morphology, formed of the network-shaped Pt crack and AgNW percolation network embedded in the DS matrix. Thanks to the balanced strain-sensing performance of the hybrid strain sensor in conjunction with large stretchability, the device was successfully demonstrated as a wearable human-activity monitoring solution that can monitor a wide range of human motions in real time.
A Tale of Two Coasts: H.D.’s ‘Mira-Mare’ and Robert Herring’s Cactus Coast
Authors: Hember Polly
Published: November 2022

This article looks at the presence of Monte Carlo in two neglected texts: H.D.’s short story ‘Mira-Mare’ (1934) and her close friend Robert Herring’s novel Cactus Coast (1934). Read alongside autobiographical essays and archival correspondence, a rich dialogue forms between H.D. and Herring’s texts, which narrates the inner workings of the POOL group. I argue for the consideration of ‘Mira-Mare’ and Cactus Coast as POOL texts, as they document crucial moments that shaped POOL’s networks of queer intimacy and engage with POOL’s central questions of identity and relationality. Written by two central members of the POOL group’s network, ‘Mira-Mare’ and Cactus Coast were supported by the same funds, editorial presence, and printer as POOL’s labelled outputs. By tracing the connections between H.D. and Herring’s texts, further insight into the POOL group’s activity can be mapped, positioning Monte Carlo as a crucial locus within POOL’s artistic production.
BIM-based model for sustainable built environment in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hasanain Fatma A. , Nawari Nawari O.
Published: November 2022

BIM has had a significant influence on the building and construction industry, contributing to efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness improvements. BIM technology’s integrative nature makes it a perfect platform for adopting sustainable techniques in new construction, renovation, and retrofitting of existing structures. Saudi Arabia’s market gasoline prices fell drastically between 2018 and 2020, forcing the Kingdom to create its 2030 vision. The 2030 vision seeks to transform the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) into an ideal sustainable society by lowering its dependency on oil and constructing more sustainable buildings and infrastructures. The number of green buildings and high-performance buildings in the KSA is inadequate, and the rate of change is too slow. Due to KSA’s need to enhance its built environment, it established a new green building rating named “Mostadam.” Currently, there is no metric to measure the roadmap to achieve the aspects of the KSA’s 2030 vision, and the number of green buildings in the KSA is very low compared to other countries. Therefore, there is an urgent need to translate the KSA’s green objectives into effective regulations. To attain this goal, there must be uniformity across jurisdictions in order to make sound and well-informed decisions about adopting and enforcing sustainability. This research intends to focus on the advanced capability of using BIM and creating a BIM-Based model to help facilitate the green building certification in Saudi Arabia that supports its vision of 2030. The research proposes a new strategy based on the integration of BIM and Mostadam green building rating systems where a BIM plug-in can aid in achieving the 2030 envisioned water sustainability goal and implement sustainable design principles in Saudi Arabia. Autodesk Revit and Dynamo were used for programming and visualizing the model. The model focused on one main category of Mostadam’s Green Building Rating System: water conservation. This study used a mixed methodology that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. Phase I of this study focuses on the literature review and collection of available data about BIM, Green Building Rating Systems, and the KSA 2030 vision. Phase II aims at collecting data from an online survey sent to AEC professionals. Moreover, phase II of this study includes developing a BIM-Based model using Autodesk Revit and Dynamo. Phase III embraces the validation of the model using a prototype and a case study. Driven from the data collected, the new BIM-Based model assisted in achieving the KSA 2030 vision by reducing the water consumption when compared to the baseline water consumption. The model’s constraints are presented along with future phases of the study.
Visible light-promoted transition metal-free direct C3-carbamoylation of 2H-Indazoles
Authors: Ma Chunhua , Shang Linchun , Zhao Hanying , He Xing , Lv Qiyan , Zhang Dandan , Jiang Yuqin
Published: November 2022

We reported a general transition metal-free transformation to access C3-carbamoylated 2H-indazoles via visible light-induced oxidative decarboxylation coupling, in the presence of oxamic acids as the coupling sources, 4CzIPN as the photocatalyst, and Cs2CO3 as the base. The great application potential of this mild condition is highlighted by the late-stage modification of drugs, N-terminal modification of peptides, and the good antitumor activity of the novel desired product.
Thiazolidinediones play a positive role in the vascular endothelium and inhibit plaque progression in diabetic patients with coronary atherosclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xue Cheng Yuan , Zhou Meng Qi , Zheng Qi Yan , Zhang Jin Hui , Cheng Wei Ting , Bai Xue Hui , Zhou Fen , Wu Ai Ming , Nie Bo , Liu Wei Jing , Lou Li Xia
Published: November 2022

Rosiglitazone (Avandia) and pioglitazone (Actos) belong to the class of thiazolidinediones (TZDs) drugs that act by increasing insulin sensitivity and are widely used for treating diabetic patients with insulin resistance. TZDs exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, then may play an active role in inhibiting plaque formation and coronary atherosclerosis. But the results of evidence-based medicine suggest that TZDs may increase the risk of cardiovascular adverse events. To explore the dispute in depth, our meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the changes in vascular endothelial and plaque-related indicators following treatment with TZDs in diabetic patients with coronary atherosclerosis. According to our meta-analysis, TZDs showed an inhibiting effect on plaque progression and a protective effect on the vascular endothelium in patients with diabetes and coronary atherosclerosis. Interestingly, these effects may not depend on the regulation of inflammation and lipid metabolism. By this token, TZDs may develop a potential protective effect on myocardial infarction.

Systematic review registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/], identifier [CRD42021231663].
Systematic review and meta-analysis of type B aortic dissection involving the left subclavian artery with a Castor stent graft
Authors: Yao Shihua , Chen Xu , Liao Yalin , Ding Gangbing , Li Dagang , Qin Gengliang , Qiao Ruiguo , Sun Xin , Zheng Qijun
Published: November 2022

Objective

Despite the rapid development of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), it is still a challenge to maintain the blood flow of the branch arteries above the aortic arch in Stanford type B aortic dissection involving the left subclavian artery (LSA). The Castor stent graft is an integrated, customized, single-branch stent that enables reconstruction of the LSA. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of the Castor stent graft for type B aortic dissection.

Materials and methods

An extensive electronic literature search (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022322146) was undertaken to identify all articles published up to August 2022 that described thoracic aortic repair with branch stents in the treatment of type B aortic dissection involving the LSA. The quality of the included studies was analyzed using the MINORS criteria. The primary outcome measures were the technical success rate, early mortality rate, endoleak rate, and 1-year survival rate. The secondary outcome measures were the stroke rate, left upper extremity ischemia rate, and target vessel patency rate.

Results

Eleven studies involving 415 patients were eligible for this meta-analysis. The LSA was successfully preserved in all procedures. The technical success rate was 97.5% (95% CI: 0.953–0.991); the intraoperative endoleak rate was 0.1% (95% CI: 0.000–0.012); the intraoperative LSA patency rate was 99.52%; the intraoperative LSA stent deformation and stenosis rate was 0.15% (95% CI: 0.000–0.051); the early type I endoleak rate was 1.6% (95% CI: 0.003–0.035); the 30-day mortality rate was 0.96%; the early reintervention rate was 0.9% (95% CI: 0.000–0.040); and the perioperative stroke rate was 0% (95% CI: 0.000–0.005). The 1-year survival rate was 99.7% (95% CI: 0.976–1.000). The half-year LSA patency rate was 99.3%, the 1-year LSA patency rate was 97.58%, and the 2-year LSA patency rate was 95.23%. During the follow-up period, the leakage rate was 0.3% (95% CI: 0.000–0.017), the incidence of left upper extremity ischemia rate was 0.5% (95% CI: 0.000–0.035), and the deformation and stenosis rate of the LSA stent was 2.2% (95% CI: 0.06–0.046).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis shows that endovascular repair of type B aortic dissection using the Castor stent-graft may be technically feasible and effective. However, this conclusion needs to be interpreted with caution, as the quality of evidence for all outcomes is between low and very low.

Systematic review registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/], identifier [CRD42022322146].
Effectiveness and safety of inspiratory muscle training in patients with pulmonary hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Luo Zeruxin , Qian Hong , Zhang Xiu , Wang Yuqiang , Wang Jing , Yu Pengming
Published: November 2022

Background

Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is a simple and well-tolerated physical therapy that increases respiratory muscle strength and relieving the degree of dyspnea and fatigue. Therefore, it may be used as a transitional modality before exercise training or as a specific physical therapy intervention for those who are diagnosed with respiratory muscle weakness. However, the current evidence on IMT in pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients is inconclusive. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the current role of IMT in this group of patients.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched through May 2022. Trials examining the feasibility and effectiveness of IMT in PH patients. Outcome measures included adverse events, training adherence and compliance, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), forced vital capacity (FVC%), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1%), FEV1/FVC%, 6 min walk distance (6MWD), Peak VO2, dyspnea, and fatigue perception after the IMT training program. Only randomized controlled trials were included. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for controlled trials was adopted to assess study quality. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated with the chi-square test and I2 statistic. Mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated.

Results

We ultimately identified four studies that met the criteria. These studies comprised 80 patients with 16 males and 64 females. The mean age was 53.25. The main types of PH were group I (pulmonary arterial hypertension, 95%) and group IV (chronic thromboembolic PH, 5%). No severe adverse events were reported in the included studies. IMT had a significant effect on improving MIP (18.89 cmH2O; 95% CI: 9.43–28.35, P < 0.001) and MEP (8.06 cmH2O; 95% CI: 2.39–13.73; P = 0.005), increase in the 6MWD (30.16 m; 95% CI: 1.53–58.79; P = 0.04). No significant improvement was found in pulmonary function (P > 0.05), and uncertain effect on the quality of life (QoL) score.

Conclusion

Based on currently limited evidence, IMT is an effective physical therapy for increasing respiratory muscle function and exercise capacity, but still a lack of evidence on dyspnea and fatigue levels, pulmonary function, and QoL in PH patients. There are reasons to believe that IMT is a promising intervention in PH patients, enriching rehabilitation options and serving as a bridge before formal exercise training. It is expected that IMT will play an important role in the future clinical pathway of physical therapy for this group of patients.

Systematic review registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/logout.php], identifier [CRD42022335972].
Immune micro-environment and drug analysis of peritoneal endometriosis based on epithelial-mesenchymal transition classification
Authors: Quan Qingli , Wu Jiabao , Yu Meixing , Tang Jia
Published: November 2022

Background

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a complex event that drives polar epithelial cells transform from adherent cells to motile mesenchymal cells, in which are involved immune cells and stroma cells. EMT plays crucial roles in migration and invasion of endometriosis. The interaction of endometrial implants with the surrounding peritoneal micro-environment probably affects the development of peritoneal endometriosis. To date, very few studies have been carried out on peritoneal endometriosis sub-type classification and micro-environment analysis based on EMT. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential application of EMT-based classification in precise diagnosis and treatment of peritoneal endometriosis.

Method

Based on EMT hallmark genes, 76 peritoneal endometriosis samples were classified into two clusters by consistent cluster classification. EMT scores, which calculated by Z score of 8 epithelial cell marker genes and 8 mesenchymal cell marker genes, were compared in two clusters. Then, immune scores and the abundances of corresponding immune cells, stroma scores and the abundances of corresponding stroma cells were analyzed by the “xCell” package. Futhermore, a diagnostic model was constructed based on 9 diagnostic markers which related to immune score and stroma score by Lasso-Logistic regression analysis. Finally, based on EMT classification, a total of 8 targeted drugs against two clusters were screened out by drug susceptibility analysis via “pRRophetic” package.

Results

Hallmark epithelial-mesenchymal transition was the mainly enriched pathway of differentially expressed genes between peritoneal endometriosis tissues and endometrium tissues. Compared with cluster 2, EMT score and the abundances of most infiltrating stroma cell were significantly higher, while the abundances of most infiltrating immune cells were dramatically less. The diagnostic model could accurately distinguish cluster 1 from cluster 2. Pathway analysis showed drug candidates targeting cluster 1 mainly act on the IGF-1 signaling pathway, and drug candidates targeting cluster 2 mainly block the EGFR signaling pathway.

Conclusion

In peritoneal endometriosis, EMT was probably promoted by stroma cell infiltration and inhibited by immune cell infiltration. Besides, our study highlighted the potential uses of the EMT classification in the precise diagnosis and treatment of peritoneal endometriosis.
Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) in congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (CHH) in boys with delayed puberty and adult men
Authors: Abbara Ali , Koysombat Kanyada , Phylactou Maria , Eng Pei Chia , Clarke Sophie , Comninos Alexander N. , Yang Lisa , Izzi-Engbeaya Chioma , Hanassab Simon , Smith Neil , Jayasena Channa N. , Xu Cheng , Quinton Richard , Pitteloud Nelly , Binder Gerhard , Anand-Ivell Ravinder , Ivell Richard , Dhillo Waljit S.
Published: November 2022

Background

Delayed puberty in males is almost invariably associated with constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) or congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (CHH). Establishing the cause at presentation is challenging, with “red flag” features of CHH commonly overlooked. Thus, several markers have been evaluated in both the basal state or after stimulation e.g. with gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa).

Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a constitutive secretory product of Leydig cells and thus a possible candidate marker, but there have been limited data examining its role in distinguishing CDGP from CHH. In this manuscript, we assess INSL3 and inhibin B (INB) in two cohorts: 1. Adolescent boys with delayed puberty due to CDGP or CHH and 2. Adult men, both eugonadal and having CHH.

Materials and methods

Retrospective cohort studies of 60 boys with CDGP or CHH, as well as 44 adult men who were either eugonadal or had CHH, in whom INSL3, INB, testosterone and gonadotrophins were measured.

Cohort 1: Boys with delayed puberty aged 13-17 years (51 with CDGP and 9 with CHH) who had GnRHa stimulation (subcutaneous triptorelin 100mcg), previously reported with respect to INB.

Cohort 2: Adult cohort of 44 men (22 eugonadal men and 22 men with CHH), previously reported with respect to gonadotrophin responses to kisspeptin-54.

Results

Median INSL3 was higher in boys with CDGP than CHH (0.35 vs 0.15 ng/ml; p=0.0002). Similarly, in adult men, median INSL3 was higher in eugonadal men than CHH (1.08 vs 0.05 ng/ml; p<0.0001). However, INSL3 more accurately differentiated CHH in adult men than in boys with delayed puberty (auROC with 95% CI in adult men: 100%, 100-100%; boys with delayed puberty: 86.7%, 77.7-95.7%).

Median INB was higher in boys with CDGP than CHH (182 vs 59 pg/ml; p<0.0001). Likewise, in adult men, median INB was higher in eugonadal men than CHH (170 vs 36.5 pg/ml; p<0.0001). INB performed better than INSL3 in differentiating CHH in boys with delayed puberty (auROC 98.5%, 95.9-100%), than in adult men (auROC 93.9%, 87.2-100%).

Conclusion

INSL3 better identifies CHH in adult men, whereas INB better identifies CHH in boys with delayed puberty.
System dynamics modeling for developing an agrotourism-creative economy in the framework of the village innovation system
Authors: Santoso Sugeng , Widyanty Winda , Nurhidajat R. , Ramadhani Marfatah Muhammad , Mahmud Gustofan , Fahlevi Mochammad , Aljuaid Mohammed , Zhghenti Tsotne , Shahid Duaa
Published: November 2022

Cibodas village is one of the villages in the regency of West Bandung, which shows potential for agrotourism and a creative economy. However, the dynamic environmental changes in the post-COVID-19 era have presented challenges to developing these economic potentials. Therefore, creating a model to develop agrotourism and a creative economy in Cibodas village is necessary. This study aims to create a system dynamics model with a causal loop diagram (CLD) based on the village innovation system framework to develop the agrotourism-creative economy in Cibodas village. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches are used to identify the main variables and to develop and review the CLD. The quantitative approach provides researchers with three main variables that must be involved in the study, namely, the general innovation infrastructure, specific industrial clusters, and intermediation. The three variables are interrelated and form a CLD. The formed CLD was further explored with a qualitative approach in the form of an in-depth interview and focus group discussions (FGDs) with several key informants: the Head of the Agronative Cooperative, the Head of Cibodas Village, and the Regency Tourism and Culture Office (Disparbud) of West Bandung. Based on the results of the scenario for the existing conditions for a 24-month period, it was found that the innovation infrastructure variables had increased by 10.94% and the intermediation variables had increased by 0.22%. The simulations were carried out by increasing the intermediation intervention twice as much as that of the existing conditions. Hence, the innovation infrastructure variables increased by 18.01% and the intermediation variables increased by 0.05%. Cibodas village would take advantage of these R & D products to help its creative economy actors produce more products having a high-selling value. Moreover, by employing this strategy, they could also help their creative economy actors increase the absorption of an innovation to have such a high competitiveness.
Leaf wax biomarkers of a high-mountain lake area in western iberia—Implications for environmental reconstructions
Authors: Santos Ricardo N. , Schefuß Enno , Cordeiro Lívia Gebara M. S. , Oliveira Dulce , Hernández Armand , Ramos Alexandre M. , Rodrigues Teresa
Published: November 2022

Leaf wax n-alkane biomarkers are widely used to infer past vegetation dynamics and hydroclimate changes. The use of these compounds strongly relies on the characterization of modern plants. However, few studies have explored leaf waxes of modern plants and their application to reconstructing climate and environmental changes in the Iberian Peninsula, a region known for its high vulnerability to climate change. In this study, we characterize the distributions and compound-specific isotopic compositions of the leaf waxes of dominant plants in the vegetation cover, soil, and surface sediment of the Lake Peixão area, a high-mountain glacial lake in Serra da Estrela (central Portugal). Our results show that the modern oro-Mediterranean (subalpine) vegetation of the study area is dominated by C3 grasses/herbs and shrubs that preferentially produce long-chain leaf waxes (≥C27). The C31n-alkane display the overall highest concentration, produced by some grasses and shrubs, but especially Erica sp (heather), which is highlighted as a major source for the total n-alkane pool in the lake sediments. C29 is the second-most abundant and the most equally produced n-alkane of the vegetation cover; C25 and C27 homologs are mainly associated with aquatic-related grasses/herbs, while C33 and C35 are particularly linked to cold-drought tolerant Juniperus sp. shrubs. Shrubs show higher but proportional values than grasses/herbs in the isotopic space, suggesting a directly proportional physiological adaptation of the two ecological forms to the prevailing climatic and environmental factors of the study area. C29 is pointed as the most representative (or less plant-biased) leaf wax n-alkane in the lake sediments. Thus, δD of C29n-alkane is interpreted as a robust terrestrial hydrological indicator (δDterr), which signal is believed to be strongly influenced by the mean air temperature and/or precipitation amount. Despite the sparse vegetation and small catchment area, the apparent hydrogen fractionation factor, determined from δDterr of the lake surface sediment, is in line with the modeled global mean values for the latitude of the study area. The different molecular and compound-specific signatures of the studied oro-Mediterranean species have the potential to support future interpretations of leaf wax biomarkers in the Iberian Peninsula.