bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Kualitas Pelayanan Pajak dan Layanan WhatsApp Sapa Karawang Terhadap Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak dii KPP Pratama Karawang
Authors: Nathisa Mardhatillah
Published: November 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh kualitas pelayanan pajak dan layanan WhatsApp Sapa Karawang terhadap kepatuhan Wajib Pajak di KPP Pratama Karawang. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode expalanatory. Teknik penentuan sampel yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu non-probability sampling dengan teknik purposive sampling, serta menggunakan rumus slovin. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian secara parsial dan simultan, menunjukkan bahwa kualitas pelayanan pajak dan layanan WhatsApp Sapa Karawang berpengaruh terhadap kepatuhan Wajib Pajak di KPP Pratama Karawang. Besarnya kualitas pelayanan pajak dan layanan WhatsApp Sapa Karawang dalam memberikan kontribusi pengaruh terhadap kepatuhan Wajib Pajak di KPP Pratama Karawang sebesar 39,9%.
Early Bright Galaxies from Helium Enhancements in High-Redshift Star Clusters
Authors: Katz Harley , Ji Alexander P , Telford Grace , Senchyna Peter
Published: November 2024

The first few cycles of JWST have identified an overabundance of UV-bright galaxies and a general excess of UV luminosity density at z≳10 compared to expectations from most (pre-JWST) theoretical models. Moreover, some of the brightest high-redshift spectroscopically confirmed galaxies exhibit peculiar chemical abundance patterns, most notably extremely high N/O ratios. Since N/O has been empirically shown to scale strongly with He/H, as expected for hot hydrogen burning, these same bright high-redshift galaxies are likely also helium-enhanced. Under simplistic assumptions for stellar evolution, the bolometric luminosity of a star scales as L∝(4−92Y+54Y2)−1 — hence a higher He/H leads to brighter stars. In this Letter, we evolve a series of MESA models to the zero-age main-sequence and highlight that the helium enhancements at the levels measured and inferred for high-redshift galaxies can boost the 1500 A UV luminosity by up to ∼50%, while simultaneously increasing the stellar effective temperature. The combination of helium enhancements with nebular continuum emission expected for intense bursts of star formation have the potential to help reduce the tension between JWST observations and certain galaxy formation models.
Penguatan Moderasi Beragama Berbasis Kearifan Lokal Manirat Masyarakat Batak di Desa Lumban Siagian Jae, Kec. Siatas Barita, Kab, Tapanuli Utara, Prov. Sumatera Utara
Authors: Simorangkir Jungjungan , Simangunsong Bestian , Manullang Megawati , Tamba Tiffany
Published: November 2024

Abstrak
Artikel pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini menggambarkan pelaksanaan dan hasil dari sebuah program penguatan moderasi beragama yang menggunakan pendekatan kearifan lokal dalam komunitas masyarakat Batak di Desa Lumban Siagian Jae, Kecamatan Siatas Barita, Kabupaten Tapanuli Utara, Provinsi Sumatera Utara pada 29 Juli 2023. Tujuan utama dari pengabdian ini adalah untuk membantu mengembangkan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam tentang nilai-nilai kearifan lokal manirat sebagai landasan untuk moderasi beragama. Program ini melibatkan kolaborasi antara tim pengabdian dan masyarakat setempat dalam merancang dan melaksanakan serangkaian kegiatan. Kegiatan ini meliputi seminar dan manirat yang berfokus pada pengembangan ekonomi masyarakat melalui kebudayaan lokal manirat dan pemahaman agama yang inklusif serta toleransi antaragama. Hasil dari artikel ini menunjukkan bahwa melalui pendekatan kearifan lokal manirat, masyarakat Batak di Desa Lumban Siagian Jae dapat lebih memahami dan menerapkan moderasi dalam praktik beragama dan berbudaya mereka. Nilai-nilai kearifan lokal seperti saling menghormati, kerja sama, dan keterbukaan terhadap perbedaan agama terbukti efektif dalam memperkuat moderasi beragama di tingkat komunitas. Artikel ini juga mencatat tanggapan positif dari masyarakat terhadap program pengabdian, menunjukkan potensi lanjutan untuk pengembangan lebih lanjut. Artikel ini memberikan wawasan bagi praktisi pengabdian kepada masyarakat, pendidik agama, dan komunitas lainnya tentang pentingnya memanfaatkan kearifan lokal dalam mempromosikan moderasi beragama dan harmoni antaragama.
Kata Kunci: Moderasi Beragama, Manirat, Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat
Penyuluhan Pemadanan NPWP dengan NIK: Langkah Efektif Menuju Administrasi Pajak yang Terpadu
Authors: Panggabean Lenny , Hutabarat Milko , Lubis Jisman M. , Sinaga Rudy S. , Sirait Swanto , Harianja Greis Klara , Maanary Tabhita Regina , Butar Butar Lerina Mariska , Damar Priskila F.
Published: November 2024

Penyuluhan mengenai pemadanan Nomor Pokok Wajib Pajak (NPWP) orang pribadi menggunakan Nomor Induk Kependudukan (NIK) merupakan upaya penting untuk meningkatkan efisiensi administrasi perpajakan dan kepatuhan pajak di Indonesia. NPWP dan NIK adalah dua identitas penting yang dimiliki oleh warga negara Indonesia, namun seringkali terdapat ketidaksesuaian atau duplikasi data antara keduanya. Dosen dari prodi Manajemen Pajak dibantu oleh mahasiswa yang tergabung dalam relawan pajak melakukan kegiatan pemadanan tersebut dengan metode penyuluhan terhadap masyarakat Universitas Kristen Indonesia dan menggunakan kuisioner sebagai sarana umpan balik dari para peserta terhadap topik yang diberikan. Kesimpulannya adalah peserta yang mengikuti penyuluhan (PkM) yang berjumlah dua puluh lima orang telah mengetahui keharusan untuk pemadanan NIK dengan NPWP dengan batas waktu terakhir untuk pemadanan yakni 30 Juni 2024 dan implementasi penuh yang akan diberlakukan serentak di seluruh nusantara mulai tanggal 1 Juli 2024 dan peserta menyatakan puas atas kegiatan penyuluhan yang dilakukan oleh dosen Manajemen Pajak Fakultas Vokasi UKI dan dibantu oleh relawan pajak.
Upaya Peningkatan Pengetahuan dan Keterampilan dalam Penanganan Pertama pada Kejang Demam di Posyandu Garuda II Kembaran Purwokerto
Authors: Anisa Siti Anisa , Handayani Rahmaya Nova , Surtiningsih
Published: November 2024

An important factor in speeding up a child's recovery is the mother's knowledge about her child's illness. A mother must play an important role when her child suffers from a febrile seizure to prevent the child from experiencing more serious health issues. The knowledge that a mother possesses can support the management of the fever condition that occurs. Objective. This Community Service activity aims to help improve knowledge and skills in the first handling of febrile seizures at Posyandu Garuda II Kembaran Purwokerto. Methods. Community service activities are carried out by conducting lectures, implementation and direct evaluation by applying increased knowledge and skills in the first handling of febrile seizures. Results. Based on the results of PkM activities, before being given education there were 8 participants (16.3%) in the good knowledge category, 23 participants (46.9%) in the sufficient knowledge category and 18 participants (36.7%) in the poor knowledge category. Then after being given education using audiovisual and leaflets, there was an increase in knowledge, namely 44 participants (89.8%) in the good knowledge category and 5 participants (10.2%) in the moderate knowledge category. As for the skill level before being given a demonstration, all participants were not skilled. Then after being given demonstrations, audiovisuals and leaflets increased to skillful, namely 37 participants (75.5%) and 12 participants (24.5%) were less skilled. The conclusion is that after being given education there is an increase in knowledge and skills.
 
Keywords: Knowledge; Skills; Fever Seizures;
The Many Presences of Rhetoric in Late Antique Platonism
Authors: O’Meara Dominic
Published: November 2024

This paper draws a taxonomy of the use of rhetorical genres in teaching and writings by the Platonists of Late Antiquity (from Iamblichus at the turn of the third/fourth century ad to the Platonists of Athens and Alexandria in the fifth and sixth centuries). It is a rich gamut of genres, including encomia of heroes (biographies), of sciences (protreptics), of gods (theologies), mirrors of princes. It also examines some rhetorical argumentative techniques. The question of the difference between good and bad rhetoric is discussed. While being critical of rhetors who cater to popular opinions and bases desires, the Platonists of Late Antiquity found room for a ‘true’ rhetoric, in the service of philosophy, inspired by knowledge and seeking the good.
(Post-)pandemic Somatechnics, Neoliberalism, and the Return to (Academic) Normalcy: Digital Conversations
Authors: Rahbari Ladan , Geerts Evelien
Published: November 2024

This essay consists of a set of digital (post-)pandemic email correspondence held between a political sociologist and an interdisciplinary philosopher working at western European universities while the COVID-19 pandemic rapidly unfolded itself. Starting from an unsettling point in time in 2021, during which vaccination strategies and numerous eugenic pandemic containment measures were being discussed, the authors touch upon issues as diverse as the importance of embodied feminist theorising in pandemic crisis times; neoliberal extractive capitalism’s influence on society, pandemic (mis)management, and higher education; the problematic (post-)pandemic business-as-usual-narrative; grief, mourning, and trauma; the power of anger and protesting; and the forced return to normal(cy). These conversations are held together by an irruptions-based methodology based on Deleuze and Guattari (2000) . This methodology tries to make sense of the (post-)pandemic as a disruptive event while forming the backdrop for conversational and critical theoretical snippets, self-designed memes, and critical race, queer, disability, and feminist theoretical perspectives that all conceptualise (post-)pandemic somatechnics as a ‘form of ethico-political critical practice’ ( Sullivan and Murray 2011 : vii).
Processing of code-switched speech: an effortless activity?
Authors: Dancheva Yoana , Vogelzang Margreet , Tsimpli Ianthi
Published: November 2024

Recent research on the processing of code-switched (CS) speech has yielded conflicting results, suggesting that CS can both alleviate cognitive demand and impose a cognitive cost. In light of these seemingly contradictory findings, this study examines the processing of CS utterances by late L1 Bulgarian L2 English bilinguals residing in the UK. Data from 33 Bulgarian-English bilinguals was analysed for reaction times, repetition accuracy, and speech rate. Participants were presented with 8 utterances across 4 conditions: unilingual Bulgarian, unilingual English, alternational CS, and insertional CS, which they had to listen to and rate, and afterwards repeat aloud. Preliminary results show no significant difference in the reaction times to the unilingual conditions and the CS conditions. The accuracy analysis, however, indicates a significantly higher accuracy for the CS conditions compared to the unilingual English condition, and no difference to the unilingual Bulgarian condition. A significantly slower speech rate is observed in the alternational CS condition and unilingual English condition compared to the unilingual Bulgarian condition. The findings from this study do not indicate a processing cost associated with CS activity and demonstrate that CS can be effortless for bilinguals.
A meta-analysis of the effect of ultrasound activation parameters on phase-change nanodroplets in imaging and therapy
Authors: Dorvashi Maryam , Harrison Owen J. , Sultan Hossam H. , Zhang Ge , Thanou Maya , Ghavami Navid , Tiberi Gianluigi , Ghavami Mohammad , Harput Sevan
Published: November 2024

Phase-change nanodroplets (PCNDs) have been used in ultrasound imaging, targeted drug delivery, blood-brain-barrier (BBB) opening, sonothrombolysis and histotripsy for over a decade. For these ultrasound applications, PCNDs provide higher in vivo lifetime than microbubbles (MBs), the potential for extravasation inside tumour and on demand activation, which is the transition of the liquid-core of nanodroplets to gaseous microbubbles through acoustic droplet vaporisation (ADV). Operating above the ADV threshold can offer repeatable activation of PCNDs and the subsequent oscillation of acoustically activated PCNDs, which is advantageous in imaging and therapeutic applications. Efficient and repeatable activation of PCNDs require a good understanding of ultrasound parameters and nanodroplet composition for different biomedical applications. Therefore, this article presents a meta-analysis of the effect of ultrasound activation parameters on ADV for various PCNDs in different biomedical applications. About 7,500 articles were considered for this study, but only 45 articles were chosen and evaluated in the meta-analysis based on the following criteria: 1): activation parameters, including ultrasound frequency, peak negative pressure, transmit pulse length or duration have been clearly mentioned, 2), droplets range in nanometre size (<1 µm), 3), experiments are performed at a temperature of 37°C and 4) ADV threshold has been clearly mentioned and observations are not due to inertial cavitation (IC). From selected publications, we recorded the activation frequency (0.06–16 MHz), ultrasound pressure (0.18–14.9 MPa), activation pulse length (µs-ms range) and nanodroplet size for different types of perfluorocarbon PCNDs (C3F8, C4F10, C5F12 and C6F14) and evaluated the relation of these parameters to each other. Finally, a Root Mean Square (RMS)-like power metric, which is a combination of ultrasound peak negative pressure and square root of ultrasound pulse length, is proposed for identifying the ADV threshold behaviour instead of using pressure or mechanical index values.
Evaluation of black soldier fly larvae oil as a feed ingredient for broiler chickens: effects on performance, carcass traits, meat characteristics, and blood parameters
Authors: Somparn Nantanant , Pootthachaya Padsakorn , Puangsap Warin , Pintaphrom Nisakon , Srikha Theeraphat , Tengjaroenkul Bundit , Cherdthong Anusorn , Wongtangtintharn Sawitree
Published: November 2024

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of replacing diet rice bran oil (RBO) with black soldier fly larva oil (BSFLO) on the growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and blood parameters of broiler chickens. At one day of age, a total of 180 male broiler chickens (Ross 308) were randomly allocated to 3 experimental groups (4 replicates and 15 birds/pen). To a basal control diet, either 50% or 75% of the RBO was replaced with BSFLO, respectively. The growth performance was monitored throughout the rearing period (divided into 3 periods: 1-10, 11-24, and 25-42 days). On days 24 and 42, Blood samples were taken from each treatment for hemato-biochemical index determination. At the termination period, 8 birds (two birds/pen) per group were slaughtered for carcass and meat quality measurement. Samples of the liver were submitted for fatty acid investigations. The results showed that the inclusion of 75% BSFLO in the broiler diet significantly increased FCR (Feed conversion ratio) in the finisher and overall periods. Interestingly, replacing 50% of RBO with BSFLO did not influence growth performance, carcass traits, and hematochemical parameters compared to 75% of BSFLO and control groups. The present study suggests that partially replacing RBO with 50% of BSFLO in broiler chicken diets has no adverse effects on growth performance, carcass-meat quality, or blood parameters.
SarZ inhibits the hemolytic activity through regulation of phenol soluble modulins in Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Chen Xiao , Sun Huiru , Wang Wei , Wang Han , Tan Runan , Zhu Tao
Published: November 2024

Background

Staphylococcus epidermidis is an important conditionally pathogenic bacterium. SarZ, belonging to the SarA family protein, has been demonstrated in S. aureus to promote the expression of invasive virulence factors while inhibiting biofilm formation. However, the regulatory role of SarZ on S. epidermidis virulence is not completely understood.

Results

In this study, we successfully deleted the sarZ gene by allelic replacement in S. epidermidis. The sarZ mutant strain exhibited remarkably increased hemolytic activity and drastically impaired biofilm formation, suggesting that SarZ is key regulator of virulence in S. epidermidis. Through butanol extraction of the spent medium and HPLC-MS/MS analysis, production of phenol soluble modulins (PSMs) possessing cytolytic effect was found to be elevated significantly in the mutant. Subsequent qRT-PCR experiments demonstrated that expression of the psm genes, especially the β-type, was upregulated dramatically in the mutant. Meanwhile, transcription of icaA gene responsible for biofilm formation was sharply diminished. The sarZ psmβ double mutant was further generated and displayed a significantly decreased hemolytic activity compared with the sarZ mutant. EMSA assays implied that recombinant SarZ protein can directly bind to the promoter regions of the psmβ and ica operon. DNase I footprinting assays further pinpointed two SarZ-binding sites on the psmβ operon promoter.

Conclusion

Taken together, the results confirmed that SarZ is a pivotal regulator of virulence in S. epidermidis and might respectively regulate the hemolytic activity and biofilm formation mainly by directly controlling the transcription of psm genes, particularly the β-type, and the ica operon.
A systemic survey of the Omniverse platform and its applications in data generation, simulation and metaverse
Authors: Ahmed Naveed , Afyouni Imad , Dabool Hamzah , Al Aghbari Zaher
Published: November 2024

Nvidia’s Omniverse platform represents a paradigm shift in the realm of virtual environments and simulation technologies. This paper presents a comprehensive examination of the Omniverse platform, a transformative force in virtual environments and simulation technologies. We offer a detailed systematic survey of the Omniverse’s impact across various scientific fields, underscoring its role in fostering innovation and sculpting the technological future. Our focus includes the Omniverse Replicator for generating synthetic data to address data insufficiency, and the utilization of Isaac Sim with its Issac Gym and software development kit (SDK) for robotic simulations, alongside Drive Sim for autonomous vehicle emulation. We further investigate the Extended Reality (XR) suite for augmented and virtual realities, as well as the Audio2Face application, which translates audio inputs into animated facial expressions. A critical analysis of Omniverse’s technical architecture, user-accessible applications, and extensions are provided. We contrast existing surveys on the Omniverse with those on the metaverse, delineating their focus, applications, features, and constraints. The paper identifies potential domains where the Omniverse excels and explores its real-world application capabilities by discussing how existing research papers utilize the Omniverse platform. Finally, we discuss the challenges and hurdles facing the Omniverse’s broader adoption and implementation, mitigating the lack of surveys solely focusing on the Omniverse.
Decoding lung complexity: single-cell sequencing in lung diseases, regeneration, and drug discovery
Authors: Wang Peng , Tang Nan
Published: November 2024

The lung is constantly exposed to the external environment, making it highly susceptible to infections and injuries caused by airborne pollutants and pathogens. Understanding the cellular players and molecular mechanisms underlying post-injury lung repair is essential for elucidating the repair processes following injury. Single-Cell Sequencing (sc-seq) offers unprecedented single-cell resolution, enabling researchers to dissect the complex biological profiles that drive diverse lung pathologies and to uncover the signaling pathways crucial for lung regeneration. This review will explore the latest findings in lung diseases and regeneration revealed by sc-seq. Additionally, we will highlight how continuous advancements in sc-seq technology are paving the way for the development of novel drugs aimed at targeting pathways involved in lung regeneration and treating lung diseases. By offering single-cell resolution, recent advancements in sc-seq have enabled researchers to dissect multiple layers of biological profiles underlying diverse lung pathogenesis and uncover signaling pathways critical for lung regeneration. In this review, we will discuss recent sc-seq findings in lung diseases and regeneration. Continuous advancements in sc-seq technology hold great promise for facilitating the development of novel drugs targeting lung regeneration pathways and lung diseases. These repair processes are mediated by resident epithelial stem cells and their niche cells.
Stannous fluoride protects gingival keratinocytes against infection and oxidative stress by Porphyromonas gingivalis outer membrane vesicles
Authors: Xie Sancai , Tansky Cheryl S. , Ashe Julie , Gao Fei , Ramji Nivedita B. , Iberi Vighter , Sun Yiping , Ramji Niranjan , Biesbrock Aaron R.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To determine whether outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of the periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) can infect gingival keratinocytes and stimulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and to assess whether stannous fluoride (SnF2), stannous chloride (SnCl2) or 0.454% SnF2 toothpaste diluents can inhibit OMV infection.

Methods

OMVs were isolated from P. gingivalis culture and their morphology was characterized using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. OMVs were harvested, separated from parent bacteria, labeled with fluorescent probes, and added to proliferating gingival keratinocytes. Infection was monitored by measuring uptake of fluorescence. Free radicals and ROS were quantified by adding a separate CellROX fluorescent probe following 24 h incubation with OMVs, and automated fluorescence imaging was used to assess ROS generation rates. A dose response range of SnF2 and SnCl2 concentrations as well as 0.454% SnF2 toothpaste dilutions were added to OMVs to examine their potential to neutralize OMV infectivity and protect gingival keratinocytes from development of oxidative stress. The mechanism of SnF2 inhibition of OMV infection was studied by binding SnF2 with purified lipopolysaccharides (LPS) from the bacterial culture and examining the binding of stannous to LPS using mass spectrometry.

Results

Large numbers of OMVs were formed in P. gingivalis culture medium. They were purified along with isolating soluble LPS. Fluorescence imaging revealed that OMVs infected gingival keratinocytes and promoted oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner. SnF2, SnCl2, and SnF2 toothpaste inhibited OMV infectivity (p < 0.05) and likewise protected gingival keratinocytes from oxidative stress (p < 0.05). Stannous precipitated LPS and OMVs from solution, forming insoluble aggregates easily isolated by centrifugation. Mass spectroscopic analysis revealed that stannous was bound to LPS in a one-to-one molecular equivalent ratio.

Conclusion

SnF2 not only kills bacteria, but also inhibits bacterial virulence factors, such as LPS and OMVs. SnF2, SnCl2 and stannous-containing toothpastes can precipitate OMVs and LPS to in principle protect gingival keratinocyte cells from infection leading to inflammation and oxidative stress.
Numerical simulation study on the construction of cut off walls using high-pressure jet grouting based on SPH method
Authors: Liu Da , Ye Zhi-wei , Xie Wei-jiang , Gao Jiang-lin , Hu Song-tao , Li Yan , Chen Fang
Published: November 2024

The optimization of parameters for the construction of cut off walls using high spray method plays a crucial role in improving the permeability stability of hydraulic structures and ensuring the safe operation of water conservancy projects. However, limited by existing research methods, there is currently a lack of systematic research on the influence of construction parameters on the quality of cut off walls. This study fully considers the characteristics of high-speed slurry jet and soil dynamic failure in numerical simulation of the construction of cut off walls using high spray method. Based on the SPH method, a two-dimensional plane strain model of high-pressure jet grouting was established, and the influence of aperture, grouting pressure, and hole spacing on the failure process of soil and the quality of cut off walls is systematically analyzed. The results show that the soil mainly exhibits tensile failure under the continuous action of high-speed cement slurry during the construction of cut off walls using high spray method. Reducing the aperture and grouting pressure, as well as increasing the hole spacing, are not conducive to forming a continuous and dense impermeable wall. Compared to grouting pressure, the influence of aperture and spacing on the quality of cut off walls is more significant. When the aperture is 0.6 m, the grouting pressure is 32 MPa, and the hole spacing is 0.8 m, the quality of cut off walls is great. Finally, the simulation results of this paper were preliminarily verified by combining the construction of cut off walls using high spray method in the flood control project in Luotang Township, Jiangxi Province, China. The findings can provide reference for optimizing the construction parameters of cut off walls using high spray method.
Generative AI and education: dynamic personalization of pupils’ school learning material with ChatGPT
Authors: Jauhiainen Jussi S. , Garagorry Guerra Agustín
Published: November 2024

The widespread use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT has seen significant growth. This rise prompted discussions on integrating these technologies into school education. However, the practical implementation, testing, and assessment of generative AI in primary and secondary education remained largely unexplored. This article examines the application of ChatGPT-3.5 and 4 in primary school education. A study involving 110 students aged 8–14 across grades 4–6 in two Uruguayan schools was conducted. The focus was on using generative AI for dynamic personalization of educational content during classroom lessons. In these sessions, instructional content followed the curriculum goals, and text, illustrations, and exercises were generated and dynamically adjusted based on generative AI. The findings indicate that generative AI effectively tailors school materials to match varying pupil knowledge levels. Real-time adjustments during lessons cater to individual learning needs, enhancing cognitive ergonomics. This approach not only boosts pupil motivation but also improves their performance, facilitating more effective achievement of the curriculum’s learning objectives. These results suggest a promising avenue for leveraging generative AI to personalize and optimize primary school education.
Validation of the self-regulation of learning instrument for undergraduates
Authors: López-Angulo Yaranay , Sáez-Delgado Fabiola , Gaeta Martha Leticia , Mella-Norambuena Javier , González-Robaina Yaynel , Muñoz-Inostroza Karla
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Self-regulation of learning is an essential variable in university students’ educational process and integral development, especially in the first semesters. Given its relevance, significant, valid, and reliable instruments are required for its measurement. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the SRLI-U scale that assesses Self-Regulation of Learning in Undergraduates.

Methods

An instrumental design was used, and the questionnaire was administered to 348 Chilean first-year university students (60.1% female) aged between 18 and 21 years (M = 18.85; SD = 0.773).

Results

Adequate adjustment indexes of the second order model were evidenced considering three dimensions theoretically coherent with Zimmerman’s model (1) Learning Disposition, Ω = 0.861, (2) Learning Performance, Ω = 0.842, and (3) Learning Self-evaluation, Ω = 0.887; and a general factor Ω = 0.936.

Conclusion

It is a valid and reliable instrument for evaluating levels of self-regulation in Chilean university students.

Discussion

The SRLI-U constitutes a valuable tool for educational practice because it allows for evaluating, monitoring, and intervening the self-regulation of learning levels. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed, as well as the study’s limitations.
Predicting future climate scenarios: a machine learning perspective on greenhouse gas emissions in agrifood systems
Authors: Behvandi Omid , Ghorbani Hamzeh
Published: November 2024

Global climate change is an extensive phenomenon characterized by alterations in weather patterns, temperature trends, and precipitation levels. These variations substantially impact agrifood systems, encompassing the interconnected components of farming, food production, and distribution. This article analyzes 8,100 data points with 27 input features that quantify diverse aspects of the agrifood system’s contribution to predicted Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGE). The study uses two machine learning algorithms, Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) and Random Forest (RF), as well as a hybrid approach (LSTM-RF). The LSTM-RF model integrates the strengths of LSTM and RF. LSTMs are adept at capturing long-term dependencies in sequential data through memory cells, addressing the vanishing gradient problem. Meanwhile, with its ensemble learning approach, RF improves overall model performance and generalization by combining multiple weak learners. Additionally, RF provides insights into the importance of features, helping to understand the significant contributors to the model’s predictions. The results demonstrate that the LSTM-RF algorithm outperforms other algorithms (for the test subset, RMSE = 2.977 and R2 = 0.9990). These findings highlight the superior accuracy of the LSTM-RF algorithm compared to the individual LSTM and RF algorithms, with the RF algorithm being less accurate in comparison. As determined by Pearson correlation analysis, key variables such as on-farm energy use, pesticide manufacturing, and land use factors significantly influence GHGE outputs. Furthermore, this study uses a heat map to visually represent the correlation coefficient between the input variables and GHGE, enhancing our understanding of the complex interactions within the agrifood system. Understanding the intricate connection between climate change and agrifood systems is crucial for developing practices addressing food security and environmental challenges.
Prevalence of chronic kidney disease and associated factors among adult diabetic patients: a hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Aregawi Kibrom , Kabew Mekonnen Getachew , Belete Rebuma , Kucha Winner
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a significant impact on public health with a high morbidity and death rate. Most diabetic patients, in the course of their lives, develop diabetic kidney disease. In the least developed nations, its size is outstripping itself. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of chronic kidney disease and associated factors among adult diabetic patients.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 328 adult diabetic patients from 1 December 2023 to 4 April 2024 at the Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, northern Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling method was utilized to select the study participants. Pretested structured questionnaires were used to collect sociodemographic, economic, and behavioral/lifestyle factors. Medical records were also reviewed to collect clinical data. Creatinine analysis was performed by kinetic alkaline picrate method and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration 2021 equation was used to calculate the glomerular filtration rate from the serum creatinine, age, and sex. Proteinuria was determined by using the dipstick semiquantitative method. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 29. A variable with a p-value of <0.25 in bivariate logistic regression analyses was analyzed in multivariate logistic regression to identify the associated factors. In multivariable logistic regression, a variable was deemed statistically significant if it had a p-value <0.05. Associations were presented as odds ratio (OR) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The prevalence of chronic kidney diseases in adult diabetic patients was 26.5% (95% CI, 21.8%–31.7%). About 5.2%, 12.5%, 7.3%, 0.9%, and 0.6% had stage 1–5 chronic kidney diseases, respectively. Hypertension [adjusted OR (AOR) = 2.390; 95% CI, 1.394–4.099, p = 0.002], >10-year duration of diabetes (AOR = 2.585; 95% CI, 2.321–5.807; p = 0.001), and family history of kidney diseases (AOR = 2.884; 95% CI, 1.338–6.218; p = 0.007) were associated factors of chronic kidney diseases.

Conclusions

The study revealed that one in four diabetic patients had chronic kidney disease. Special attention should be given to patients with family history of CKD, long duration on diabetes, and concomitant hypertension.
The genetics of resistance to infectious pancreatic necrosis virus in rainbow trout unveiled through survival and virus load data
Authors: Ahmad Aqeel , Aslam Muhammad Luqman , Evensen Øystein , Gamil Amr A. A. , Berge Andreas , Solberg Thoralf , Schmitt Armin Otto , Gjerde Bjarne
Published: November 2024

Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis virus (IPNV) is one of the major threats to the animal welfare and economy of the rainbow trout farming industry. Previous research has demonstrated significant genetic variation for resistance against IPNV. The main objective of the study was to investigate the genetic architecture of resistance against IPNV in rainbow trout fry. To achieve this, 610 rainbow trout fry, from a full factorial mating between 5 sires and 5 dams, were bath challenged with the IPNV isolate (IPNV-AS) from Atlantic salmon reared at a commercial farm. The resistance against IPNV was accessed using three different phenotypes; binary survival (BS), total days survived (TDS) and virus load (VL) recorded on the fish throughout the 40-day challenge test. All fish were genotyped using a 57K Affymetrix SNP array. The IPNV-AS isolate resulted in an overall mortality of 62.1%. The heritability estimates for survival (BS h2 = 0.21 ± 0.06, TDS h2 = 0.25 ± 0.07) and VL traits (h2 = 0.23 ± 0.08) were moderate and indicative of potential use of selection for increased resistance to IPNV in rainbow trout selective breeding programs. The unity estimated genetic correlation between the two survival traits (BS and TDS) indicates that the traits can be considered the same trait. In contrast, a moderate favourable negative genetic correlation was found between VL and the two survival traits (−0.61 ± 0.22 to −0.70 ± 0.19). The GWAS of the traits with many QTLs crossing the chromosome-wide Bonferroni corrected threshold indicates the polygenic nature of the studied traits. Most of the 10 possible identified genes were found to be linked with immunity or viral pathogenesis, which could be potentially responsible for the significant genetic variation in survival against the IPNV-AS. The QTL validation analysis revealed no significant difference in the mortalities and VL among the three genotypes of the detected QTL. The VL trait showed larger variation among the dead fry and with a concordant pattern with the two survival phenotypes, but with no significant difference in the proportion of IPNV VL positive samples in the dead and the survived fry. Overall, the results indicate the polygenic nature of the studied traits and support the use of genomic selection to improve resistance against IPNV in rainbow trout breeding companies.
Unspecified asthma, childhood-onset, and adult-onset asthma have different causal genes: a Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Zaied Roan E. , Gokuladhas Sreemol , Walker Caroline , O’Sullivan Justin M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Asthma is a heterogeneous condition that is characterized by reversible airway obstruction. Childhood-onset asthma (COA) and adult-onset asthma (AOA) are two prominent asthma subtypes, each with unique etiological factors and prognosis, which suggests the existence of both shared and distinct risk factors.

Methods

Here, we employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis to elucidate the causal association between genes within lung and whole-blood-specific gene regulatory networks (GRNs) and the development of unspecified asthma, COA, and AOA using the Wald ratio method. Lung and whole blood-specific GRNs, encompassing spatial eQTLs (instrumental variables) and their target genes (exposures), were utilized as exposure data. Genome-wide association studies for unspecified asthma, COA, and AOA were used as outcome data in this investigation.

Results

We identified 101 genes that were causally linked to unspecified asthma, 39 genes causally associated with COA, and ten genes causally associated with AOA. Among the identified genes, 29 were shared across some, or all of the asthma subtypes. Of the identified causal genes, ORMDL3 had the strongest causal association with both unspecified asthma (OR: 1.49; 95% CI:1.42-1.57; p=7.30x10-51) and COA (OR: 3.37; 95% CI: 3.02-3.76; p=1.95x10-102), whereas PEBP1P3 had the strongest causal association with AOA (OR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.16-1.41; p=0.007).

Discussion

This study identified shared and unique genetic factors causally associated with different asthma subtypes. In so doing, our study emphasizes the need to move beyond perceiving asthma as a singular condition to enable the development of therapeutic interventions that target sub-type specific causal genes.
Scientific issues with rodent models of neuromyelitis optic spectrum disorders
Authors: Huang Yusen , Wang Tianwei , Wang Fangruyue , Wu Yujing , Ai Jia , Zhang Ying , Shao Meiyan , Fang Le
Published: November 2024

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes severe inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS), primarily affecting the optic nerves, spinal cord, and brainstem. Aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G antibodies (AQP4-IgG) are a diagnostic marker of the disease and play a significant role in its pathogenesis, though the exact mechanism is not yet fully understood. To develop rodent models that best simulate the in vivo pathological and physiological processes of NMOSD, researchers have been continuously exploring how to establish the ideal model. In this process, two key issues arise: 1) how the AQP4 antibody crosses the blood-brain barrier, and 2) the source of the AQP4 antibody. These two factors are critical for the successful development of rodent models of NMOSD. This paper reviews the current state of research on these two aspects.
Disruption of the C5a/C5aR1 axis confers protection against hookworm infection in lung
Authors: Walachowski Sarah , Garo Lucien , Sharma Arjun , Jayaraman Archana , Noon Jason , Reinhardt Christoph , Bosmann Markus
Published: November 2024

Hookworms are soil-transmitted parasitic nematodes that penetrate the host skin before migrating to the lungs. With an estimated 500-700 million people infected worldwide, hookworm infections are a neglected tropical disease and a significant cause of morbidity, particularly in children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. Although there is ample evidence that complement activation is pivotal to elicit a protective host immune response against invasive pathogens, its role in hookworm infection remains insufficiently explored. Here, we investigated the complement anaphylatoxin, C5a, during the early lung stage of infection with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis in C57BL/6J wild type and C5aR1-/- mice. Despite the previously reported ability of lung larvae to evade complement activation, C5a was detectable locally in lung tissue and bronchoalveolar lavages. Surprisingly, C5aR1 presence directly contributed to the pathogenicity of hookworm infection. The burden of viable parasites in the lungs was mitigated in C5aR1-/- mice, compared to C57BL/6J mice 48 hours post-infection. Additionally, C5aR1-/- mice showed significantly reduced lung injury, lower cytokine release, attenuated alveolar hemorrhage, and limited alveolar-capillary barrier disruption. Neutrophils were the most abundant and highest C5aR1-expressing cell type in the alveolar space after infection. Deficiency of C5aR1 reduced the influx of neutrophils, monocytes, and eosinophils to the pulmonary airways. RNA sequencing of alveolar neutrophils revealed C5aR1-dependent regulation of the novel nuclear protein, DEDD2. In conclusion, our findings highlight the impact of C5aR1 signaling in neutrophils during hookworm infection uncovering an unexpected downside of complement activation in parasitic infection.
A bibliometric analysis of immunotherapy for atherosclerosis: trends and hotspots prediction
Authors: Wang Jing-Hui , Pan Guan-Rui , Jiang Long
Published: November 2024

Introduction

An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that immunotherapy may play a significant role in treating Atherosclerosis and has emerged as a promising therapy in this field. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive perspective through bibliometric analysis and investigate the existing hotspots and frontiers.

Methods

This study searched records from Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus from January 1, 1999, to May 27, 2023. By using bibliometric software CiteSpace (6.3.R1) and VOSviewer (1.6.19), co-occurrence analysis was used to count the frequency of co-occurrence of certain elements (e.g., countries, regions, institutions, etc.), cluster analysis was used to classify keywords, and burst analysis was used to identify research trends and hotspots.

Results

The results showed that the number of annual publications has grown in a fluctuating manner; the USA, China, and the Netherlands have the highest numbers of publications, and the top three institutions are located in the Netherlands, Sweden, and the USA. In addition, Nilsson J published the highest number of papers; Ridker PM and his article “Anti-inflammatory Therapy with Canakinumab for Atherosclerotic Disease” have played prominent roles. The top four Journals with the highest numbers of publications are “Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology”, “Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine”, “Circulation” and “Vaccine”. In addition, keyword analysis indicates that inflammation, nanoparticles, adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, T cells and tumor necrosis factor will be future research hotspots.

Discussion

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of immunotherapy in atherosclerosis, offering insights that advance scientific understanding. It not only assists researchers in grasping the current hotspots in this field but also reveals potential directions for future investigation. Moreover, future studies can optimize immunotherapy strategies based on hotspot predictions to decelerate the progression of atherosclerosis.
Unintended consequences of modifying coastal river systems
Authors: Malito John , Mohrig David
Published: November 2024

Coastal infrastructure projects, particularly the modification of coastal river channels, are becoming increasingly significant to economic activities worldwide as a response to climate-driven changes and urbanization. The benefits of channel modification projects can be realized quickly, but the altered movement of sediments in the river channel can lead to unintended geomorphic changes years or decades later. An example of this is the closure of the San Bernard River mouth, located on the central coast of Texas, which was clogged with sediments by the 1990s as a result of two major projects in the area: the diversion of the Brazos River channel (1929) and the construction of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) (1940s). The objective of this study was to a) document the delayed geomorphic response to the projects using a GIS analysis of historical maps and aerial imagery, and b) provide a snapshot of altered flow pathways in the area using measurements collected in situ. Results showed that the GIWW was the main conduit for river flow as it bisects the San Bernard River 2 km inland of its river mouth, reducing discharge in the terminal limb of the river. Due to reduced flow, the river mouth became clogged with wave-transported sediment supplied by the still-adjusting Brazos River which had been diverted to within 6 km of the San Bernard River. With a limited connection to the sea, altered sediment and flow pathways have led to numerous hazards and costly corrective dredging projects surpassing $12 million to date. Optimizing the cost-effectiveness of channel modification projects requires considering their long-term impact as managers continue to adapt to ever-changing coastal zones.
Investigation of the performance and life cycle assessment of alkali-activated sintered sludge-slag-based permeable concrete
Authors: Ning Xiangbo , Zhang Jiayang , Zhuang Can , Su Qunyong , Zhong Shunjie
Published: November 2024

As urbanization continues to accelerate, the application of permeable concrete is becoming an increasingly prevalent practice. Nevertheless, the carbon dioxide emission issue associated with traditional permeable concrete cannot be overlooked. In this study, alkali-activated sintered sludge and slag were employed as raw materials to prepare alkali-activated sintered sludge-slag-based permeable concrete. The effects of sludge calcination temperature, sludge content, and binder-to-aggregate ratio on the compressive strength, porosity, and permeability coefficient of the permeable concrete were investigated through the implementation of one-way experiments. The formation mechanism of permeable concrete materials was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and a carbon emission assessment was performed. The findings indicated that an increase in sludge content resulted in a notable decline in the 28-day compressive strength, accompanied by a reduction in the Ca/Si ratio of the C-A-S-H hydration products, from 1.08 to 0.35. Conversely, the carbon emission assessment demonstrated that abiotic losses declined markedly with an increase in sludge content, effectively mitigating the carbon emission burden associated with construction materials.
Bridging the gap: strategies for recognizing and managing post-COVID conditions
Authors: Khan Muhammad H. , Becker Richard C.
Published: November 2024

Post-COVID conditions (PCC), pose significant challenges for healthcare providers, employers, community leaders, and patients because of their wide-ranging, fluctuating, or persisting symptoms without well-established diagnostic tests to secure a diagnosis. Estimates suggest that up to 20–30% of adults recovering from COVID-19 develop PCC, potentially affecting millions or tens of millions of people in the United States alone. The ongoing endemic coupled with the prevalence of PCC underscores an urgent need for awareness and an understanding of potentially associated conditions, long-term management strategies, and cost-effective screening approaches for cardiovascular health. Individuals experiencing PCC present with a wide array of symptoms. Prevalence of chronic conditions such as post-infectious pulmonary fibrosis, cardiomyopathy, and accelerated coronary artery, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular disease further emphasizes the need for community-wide policies and practices. Screening for PCC is recommended, particularly among high-risk individuals, including those with comorbid conditions and exposure to specific SARS-CoV-2 variants, to facilitate early diagnosis, counseling, targeted interventions, and improved quality of life. The aim of this review is to highlight the urgent need for awareness, understanding and management of PCC, focusing on development of screening strategies and targeted interventions to help facilitate early diagnosis and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals. In our view early detection and management of PCC not only improves the quality of life but also improves psychosocial health. Patient-centered approaches, standardized screening tools, and initiatives aimed at enhancing understanding and treatment options, such as the RECOVER and N3C programs, are essential for effective management of PCC.