bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
English Education Students' Thesis Abstracts Error Analysis
Authors: Pardede Parlindungan , Lustyantie Ninuk , Iskandar Ifan
Published: November 2023

Over the last decades, applied linguistics and language teaching/learning have investigated language errors committed by learners for both diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Initially, error analysis was conducted manually and involved a limited number of corpus. However, computer software advancement has facilitated much larger amounts of data analysis. This study aimed at analyzing the errors identified in undergraduate thesis abstracts written by 28 students of an English Education study program in Jakarta. Data were analyzed using UAM Corpus Tool. The results show that, successively, the types of errors most frequently committed in the corpus are: (1) grammatical errors; (2) phrasing errors; and (3) punctuation errors; while the rarest errors are pragmatic errors and lexical errors. These findings indicate that the students need to improve their mastery of grammatical rules, ability to prevent their first language interference, and skills to use correct punctuation to empower them to write more effective thesis abstracts.
Ontogenetic emergence as a criterion for theories of consciousness: Comparing GNW, SOMA, and REFCON
Authors: Kirkeby-Hinrup Asger , Overgaard Morten
Published: November 2023

In recent years increasing attention has been given to systematic comparison of theories of consciousness. Laudable practical projects have emerged in this regard, such as adversarial collaboration and the development of databases lending themselves to comparisons of empirical support for theories. In addition to the practical advances, theoretical advances have been made, such as a list of issues a theory of consciousness must address. We propose adding the issue of the ontogenetic emergence (O-emergence) of consciousness to the list of issues we use to evaluate theories of consciousness. O-emergence concerns how and when consciousness emerges ontogenetically in human beings. The underlying assumption is that there exists a point in the development of a human individual before which that individual is not and cannot be conscious. This assumption, in turn, depends on a widely shared assumption of cognitive neuroscience, which is that consciousness somehow depends on — or derives from — brain activity. In this paper, we lay out the O-emergence criterion and investigate whether it can be accounted for within the Global Neuronal Workspace theory, the Self-Organizing Meta-representational Account, and the Reorganization of Elementary Functions framework.
The Analysis of Chinese Medicine Body Constitutions of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Patients in Malaysia
Authors: Abadi Fatima , Yee Lim Hui , Month Lim Goon , Ting Denise Hung , Suan Sin Yen
Published: November 2023

Objectives: To identify the most common Chinese medicine body constitution among polycystic ovarian syndrome patients in Malaysia.Methodology: An online questionnaire including the Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire, demographic information and medical history, was given to women diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome in Malaysia from the 28th of October 2021 till the 10th of January 2022. The inclusion of participants was strictly controlled through the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Responses from participants were recorded using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26 software was used to analyse the data using Pearson’s Chi-squared test and logistic regression analysis.Results: A total of 135 women with PCOS were included in data analysis. The most common body constitution was found to be Qi stagnation constitution (23.7%), followed by Qi deficiency constitution (20%) and neutral constitution (13%). Qi stagnation constitution was associated with age, stress, depression and headaches during menstruation. Neutral constitution had a negative relationship with stress.Conclusion: The most common body constitution among PCOS patients in Malaysia is Qi stagnation constitution. Patients who were Qi stagnation constituted most frequently combined with Qi deficiency. Further research is needed to determine the associated factors of this main constitution.
Hubungan Tingkat Pemahaman Tenaga Kesehatan Tentang Pelayanan Islami Dengan Kepuasan Pasien Di Rumah Sakit Muhammadiyah Bandung
Authors: Ridlayanti Annisa
Published: November 2023

Sebagai kader Muhammadiyah yang bersama-sama berjuang untuk mewujudkan Islam yang berkemajuan dan masyarakat Islam yang sebenar-benarnya, maka pembinaan harus dilakukan terus menerus supaya khittah perjuangan selalu melekat. Kader yang berkemajuan tidak hanya berdampak pada keshalehan individunya tetapi tidak kalah penting adalah keshalehan sosial masyarakat sekitarnya.
Tujuan umum penelitian ini adalah sebagai kiprah di Amal Usaha Kesehatan Muhammadiyah mengingat potensi yang dimiliki RS untuk pemberdayaan umat di masa depan agar mampu bersaing secara pribadi menjadi tenaga kesehatan yang unggul dan secara keseluruhan mampu memberikan kontribusi positif bagi rumah sakit Muhammadiyah agar bisa bersaing dengan rumah sakit lainnya.
Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif dengan desain cross sectional, penelitian ini ingin mengukur hubungan tingkat pemahaman tenaga kesehatan (perawat dan bidan) tentang pelayanan Islami dengan kepuasan pasien. Populasi adalah perawat dan bidan yang ada di ruang perawatan beserta pasien rawat inap, sedangkan sampelnya adalah sebagian perawat dan bidan dari ruangan rawat inap serta pasien rawat inap yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi. Metode pengumpulan data menggunakan data primer berupa kuesioner yang telah lulus uji validitas dan reliabilitas. Kuesioner terdiri dari dua (2) macam yaitu kuesioner untuk tenaga kesehatan yang mengandung pernyataan terkait pemahaman perawat dan bidan tentang pelayanan Islami, yang kedua kuesioner untuk pasien yang mengandung pernyataan tentang kepuasan pasien. Analisis data menggunakan distribusi frekuensi untuk melihat karakteristik pasien dan uji korelasi untuk melihat hubungan antara tingkat pemahaman tenaga kesehatan tentang pelayanan islami dengan kepuasan pasien.
Hasil penelitian dari sampel 50 tenaga kesehatan dan 50 pasien rawat inap yang telah memenuhi kriteria inklusi menunjukan adanya hubungan antara tingkat pemahaman tenaga kesehatan tentang pelayanan islami dengan kepuasan pasien, nilai p-value =0,004; p < 0,05. Kekuatan hubungan adalah 0,405 yang menunjukan kekuatan cukup dan arah hubungan positif.
Kesimpulan : Pentingnya tingkat pemahaman pelayanan Islami dalam memberikan tindakan pada klien berkorelasi positif dengan tingkat kepuasan pasien.
Gambaran Faktor Risiko Sepsis Neonatorum Berdasarkan Waktu Kejadian di Ruang NICU RSUP Dr. Hasan Sadikin Bandung
Authors: Prawesti Ayu , Adistie Fanny , Angeli Cindya Ukhti Isti
Published: November 2023

Sepsis neonatal adalah penyebab utama kematian pada neonatus. Diagnosis awal sepsis sering sulit ditentukan karena faktor risiko klinis dan gejala klinis pada Sepsis Neonatorum Awitan Dini (SNAD) dan Sepsis Neonatorum Awitan Lanjut (SNAL) sangat beragam. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mendeskripsikan faktor risiko sepsis neonatal berdasarkan waktu insidensi di ruang NICU Rumah Sakit Dr.Hasan Sadikin Bandung. Penelitian deskriptif ini menggunakan pendekatan retrospektif yang mengidentifikasi 92 rekam medik dari Januari 2014-Desember 2017 menggunakan teknik purposive sampling dengan kriteria inklusi rekam medis neonatal dengan sepsis neonatus yang masuk ke RS Dr.Hasan Sadikin Bandung kurang dari 24 jam setelah lahir. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis univariat dengan distribusi frekuensi. Hasilnya adalah SNAD (59,80%) dan SNAL (40,20%). Faktor risiko pada SNAD seperti jenis kelamin laki-laki (69,10%), prematuritas (74,10%), berat lahir rendah (70,90%), memiliki penyakit pemicu (41,80%), asfiksia berat (43,60 %), proses persalinan caesar (52,70%), dan pemasangan alat invasif setelah didiagnosis sepsis (58,20%). Sedangkan pada SNAL seperti jenis kelamin laki-laki (56,80%), prematuritas (73,00%), berat lahir rendah (81,10%), memiliki penyakit pemicu (48,60%), asfiksia ringan (59,50%). ), proses persalinan normal (54,10%), dan pemasangan alat invasif sebelum didiagnosis sepsis (51,40%). Berdasarkan hasil dapat dilakukan strategi pencegahan dengan nutrisi dan oksigenasi yang cukup untuk mendukung pematangan organ, penambahan berat badan, dan pemenuhan kebutuhan oksigen.
Hubungan Pengetahuan Tablet Tambah Darah (Fe) Dengan Kejadian Anemia Pada Ibu Hamil di Dusun Gunasari Desa Cintanagara Kecamatan Jatinagara Kabupaten Ciamis
Authors: Setiati Nova Winda , Lisnamawati Lilis
Published: November 2023

Badan kesehatan dunia World Health Organization (WHO) melaporkan bahwa prevalensi ibu-ibu hamil yang mengalami defisiensi besi sekitar 35-75 % serta semakin meningkat seiring dengan pertambahan usia kehamilan. Sekitar 40% kematian ibu di Negara berkembang berkaitan dengan anemia pada kehamilan dan kebanyakan anemia pada kehamilan disebabkan oleh defisiensi besi dan perdarahan akut, bahkan tidak jarang keduanya saling berinteraksi. Berdasarkan hasil studi pendahuluan dengan teknik wawancara ke 10 orang ibu hamil dengan anemia yang dilakukan oleh penulis pada tanggal 13 Februari 2017 di Posyandu Desa Cintanagara Kecamatan Jatinagara Kabupaten Ciamis di peroleh informasi bahwa didapat beberapa faktor dan penyebab diantaranya yaitu: 1 orang faktor kekurangan gizi, 4 orang kurangnya pengetahuan akan pentingnya tablet Fe, dan 5 orang mengetahui pentingnya mengkonsumsi tablet Fe tetapi tidak mengkonsumsinya. Jadi dapat disimpulkan konsumsi tablet tambah darah pada ibu hamil yaitu belum mencapai target sasaran 83,4%,dan angka kejadian anemia pada ibu hamil masih tinggi yaitu sebesar 43,5%. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian deskripsi korelasi dengan tujuan utama mengidentifikasi pengetahuan ibu hamil tentang tablet Fe dan mengidentifikasi jumlah kejadian anemia pada ibu hamil. Terdapat hubungan pengetahuan tablet tambah darah dengan kejadian anemia pada ibu hamil di Desa Cintanagara Kecamatan Jatinagara.
Pengaruh Akupresur Terhadap Pengeluaran Air Susu Ibu (Asi) Pada Ibu Nifas Di Bidan Praktik Mandiri Bidan M Desa Cipinang Kecamatan Cimaung Kabupaten Bandung
Authors: Masdinarsah Imas
Published: November 2023

Latar belakang: Cakupan pemberian air susu ibu (ASI) eksklusif masih rendah yang seharusnya mencapai 80%, sedangkan di Jawa Barat hanya 21,8%. Jumlah ASI ibu nifas hari kelima-ketujuh menjadi kendala pemberian ASI pada bayi baru lahir. Salah satu upaya meningkatkan kuantitas ASI melalui tindakan  akupresur.     Tujuan: Menganalisis pengaruh akupresur terhadap pengeluaran jumlah ASI pada ibu nifas primipara menyusui pada hari kelima sampai ketujuh.  
Metode: Jenis penelitian ini kuantitatif quasi eksperimen menggunakan equivalent control group design membandingkan antara kelompok akupresur  dan dengan kelompok kontrol dengan kemaknaan ditentukan berdasar atas nilai p<0,05. Penelitian   dilakukan pada periode November 2017-Februari 2018 di Bidan Praktik Mandiri  Bd. M  Desa  Cipinang   Kabupaten  Bandung.     
Hasil: Uji normalitas kelompok kontrol dan akupresur  tidak berdistribusi normal.  Tidak ada perbedaan pendidikan dan pola pola nutrisi  ibu antar kelompok kontrol dan kelompok akupresur (p>0,05), namun ada perbedaan  rerata usia ibu (p<0,05). Terdapat pengaruh akupresur terhadap peningkatan jumlah ASI (nilai p<0,001, sedangkan pada kelompok yang tidak diberikan akupresur jumlah ASI tidak  bertambah (nilai p>0,05)           
Simpulan:  Akupresur  dapat memengaruhi  peningkatan jumlah ASI ibu nifas menyusui lebih banyak dibanding dengan yang tidak mendapat akupresur, serta akupresur dapat digunakan petugas kesehatan sebagai cara alternatif yang efektif dalam upaya memperbanyak jumlah ASI pada ibu meyusui
Epistemology of synthetic biology: a new theoretical framework based on its potential objects and objectives
Authors: Plante Mirco
Published: November 2023

Synthetic biology is a new research field which attempts to understand, modify, and create new biological entities by adopting a modular and systemic conception of the living organisms. The development of synthetic biology has generated a pluralism of different approaches, bringing together a set of heterogeneous practices and conceptualizations from various disciplines, which can lead to confusion within the synthetic biology community as well as with other biological disciplines. I present in this manuscript an epistemological analysis of synthetic biology in order to better define this new discipline in terms of objects of study and specific objectives. First, I present and analyze the principal research projects developed at the foundation of synthetic biology, in order to establish an overview of the practices in this new emerging discipline. Then, I analyze an important scientometric study on synthetic biology to complete this overview. Afterwards, considering this analysis, I suggest a three-level classification of the object of study for synthetic biology (which are different kinds of living entities that can be built in the laboratory), based on three successive criteria: structural hierarchy, structural origin, functional origin. Finally, I propose three successively linked objectives in which synthetic biology can contribute (where the achievement of one objective led to the development of the other): interdisciplinarity collaboration (between natural, artificial, and theoretical sciences), knowledge of natural living entities (past, present, future, and alternative), pragmatic definition of the concept of “living” (that can be used by biologists in different contexts). Considering this new theoretical framework, based on its potential objects and objectives, I take the position that synthetic biology has not only the potential to develop its own new approach (which includes methods, objects, and objectives), distinct from other subdisciplines in biology, but also the ability to develop new knowledge on living entities.
Phytonanofabrication of iron oxide particles from the Acacia jacquemontii plant and their potential application for the removal of brilliant green and Congo red dye from wastewater
Authors: Patel Shreya , Desai Reema , Patel Bhakti , Ali Daoud , Dawane Vinars , Gadhvi Kamlesh , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Choudhary Nisha , Sahoo Dipak Kumar , Patel Ashish
Published: November 2023

Phytonanofabrication is one of the most promising areas that has drawn the attention of scientists worldwide due to its eco-friendly nature and biocompatibility. In the current investigation, we reported the phyto-assisted formation of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) from a rare species of Acacia (Acacia jacquemontii). First, ethanolic extracts of the stem powder were analyzed by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) for the identification of phytochemicals in the stem sections of Acacia. Furthermore, IONPs were synthesized by a chemical co-precipitation method by using the stem extract. The phytonanofabricated iron oxide particles were investigated by UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) for elemental analysis. HPTLC confirmed the presence of several phenols and terpenoids in the ethanolic extracts of the stem. UV–Vis spectroscopy exhibited an absorbance peak at 380 nm, indicating the formation of IONPs, while FTIR spectroscopy showed the typical bands for Fe-O in the range of 599–1,000 cm−1 in addition to several functional groups of organic molecules at 1,596 cm−1, 2,313 cm−1, and 3,573 cm−1. XRD exhibits the amorphous nature of IONPs with peaks at 30.7, 35.5, and 62.7 nm. The IONPs were spherical-shaped, whose size varies from 10 to 70 nm, as confirmed by FESEM. EDS exhibited the presence of Fe, O, C, and NaCl. Finally, the phytonanofabricated iron oxide particles were utilized for the removal of brilliant green (BG) and Congo red (CR) dye from the aqueous solution. The removal efficiency of BG dye was up to 54.28%, while that of Congo red dye was up to 36.72% in 120 min and 60 min, respectively. Furthermore, the effect of pH and contact time was also assessed on both the dyes, where CR exhibited maximum removal at acidic pH, i.e., 47.5%, while BG showed maximum removal at pH 10, i.e., 76.59%.
Energy metabolic reprogramming regulates programmed cell death of renal tubular epithelial cells and might serve as a new therapeutic target for acute kidney injury
Authors: Zhao Limei , Hao Yajie , Tang Shuqin , Han Xiutao , Li Rongshan , Zhou Xiaoshuang
Published: November 2023

Acute kidney injury (AKI) induces significant energy metabolic reprogramming in renal tubular epithelial cells (TECs), thereby altering lipid, glucose, and amino acid metabolism. The changes in lipid metabolism encompass not only the downregulation of fatty acid oxidation (FAO) but also changes in cell membrane lipids and triglycerides metabolism. Regarding glucose metabolism, AKI leads to increased glycolysis, activation of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), inhibition of gluconeogenesis, and upregulation of the polyol pathway. Research indicates that inhibiting glycolysis, promoting the PPP, and blocking the polyol pathway exhibit a protective effect on AKI-affected kidneys. Additionally, changes in amino acid metabolism, including branched-chain amino acids, glutamine, arginine, and tryptophan, play an important role in AKI progression. These metabolic changes are closely related to the programmed cell death of renal TECs, involving autophagy, apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. Notably, abnormal intracellular lipid accumulation can impede autophagic clearance, further exacerbating lipid accumulation and compromising autophagic function, forming a vicious cycle. Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of ameliorating AKI-induced kidney damage through calorie and dietary restriction. Consequently, modifying the energy metabolism of renal TECs and dietary patterns may be an effective strategy for AKI treatment.
Advances of hafnium based nanomaterials for cancer theranostics
Authors: Wang Jiayi , Pan Jiahua , Tang Yijun , Chen Jingqi , Fei Xiaochen , Xue Wei , Liu Xueliang
Published: November 2023

Hafnium-based nanomaterials (Hf-NMs) have attracted the interest of numerous biomedical researchers by their unique properties. Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in the field of Hafnium-based nanomaterials, particularly in the context of cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, research in this area, especially concerning the clinical application of Hafnium-based nanomaterials, has not been thoroughly reviewed. This review will cover: 1) Classification and synthesis of Hafnium-based nanomaterials including Hafnium oxide nanomaterials, Hafnium Metal-Organic Frameworks/nanoscale coordination polymers (MOFs/NCPs); 2) Hafnium-based nanomaterials act as contrast enhancement agent for cancer imaging, and hafnium-based nanomaterials used for diagnosis in cancer liquid biopsy; 3) hafnium-based nanomaterials for cancer therapy, including hafnium-based nanomaterials for radiotherapy, hafnium-based nanomaterials for photodynamic therapy, hafnium-based nanomaterials for various combined therapy; and 4) Translation, toxicity, and safety for Hf-NMs in human and preclinical animal models. More attention will be given to the clinical translation of Hf-NMs in cancer.
Multi-omics approaches reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between Clonorchis sinensis and mouse liver
Authors: Zhan Tingzheng , Wu Yuhong , Deng Xueling , Li Qing , Chen Yu , Lv Jiahui , Wang Jilong , Li Shitao , Wu Zhanshuai , Liu Dengyu , Tang Zeli
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Clonorchiasis remains a serious global public health problem, causing various hepatobiliary diseases. However, there is still a lack of overall understanding regarding the molecular events triggered by Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) in the liver.

Methods

BALB/c mouse models infected with C. sinensis for 5, 10, 15, and 20 weeks were constructed. Liver pathology staining and observation were conducted to evaluate histopathology. The levels of biochemical enzymes, blood routine indices, and cytokines in the blood were determined. Furthermore, alterations in the transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome of mouse livers infected for 5 weeks were analyzed using multi-omics techniques.

Results

The results of this study indicated that adult C. sinensis can cause hepatosplenomegaly and liver damage, with the most severe symptoms observed at 5 weeks post-infection. However, as the infection persisted, the Th2 immune response increased and symptoms were relieved. Multi-omics analysis of liver infected for 5 weeks identified 191, 402 and 232 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), proteins (DEPs) and metabolites (DEMs), respectively. Both DEGs and DEPs were significantly enriched in liver fibrosis-related pathways such as ECM-receptor interaction and cell adhesion molecules. Key molecules associated with liver fibrosis and inflammation (Cd34, Epcam, S100a6, Fhl2, Itgax, and Retnlg) were up-regulated at both the gene and protein levels. The top three metabolic pathways, namely purine metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and ABC transporters, were associated with liver cirrhosis, fibrosis, and cholestasis, respectively. Furthermore, metabolites that can promote liver inflammation and fibrosis, such as LysoPC(P-16:0/0:0), 20-COOH-leukotriene E4, and 14,15-DiHETrE, were significantly up-regulated.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that the most severe symptoms in mice infected with C. sinensis occurred at 5 weeks post-infection. Moreover, multi-omics analysis uncovered predominant molecular events related to fibrosis changes in the liver. This study not only enhances our understanding of clonorchiasis progression but also provides valuable insights into the molecular-level interaction mechanism between C. sinensis and its host liver.
Changes in body composition and subsequent cardiovascular disease risk among 5-year breast cancer survivors
Authors: Kim Ji Soo , Song Jihun , Choi Seulggie , Park Sang Min
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death in breast cancer survivors, a growing population. The aim of this study was to determine whether changes in body composition, commonly observed in breast cancer survivors, is associated with subsequent CVD risk.

Methods

This cohort study used the Korean National Health Insurance Service database. The study population included 73,271 5-year breast cancer survivors aged 40 years or above. To assess changes in body composition and its effect on the risk of CVD, validated prediction equations and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression were used. Changes in metabolic markers (blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting serum glucose) according to changes in body composition were calculated by multiple linear regression.

Results

Having persistently high predicted lean body and appendicular skeletal muscle mass percentages (LBMP and ASMP, respectively) among breast cancer survivors was associated with 32% and 40% lower CVD risks than a persistently low predicted LBMP or ASMP, respectively. Conversely, persistently high predicted body fat mass percentage (BFMP) was associated with a higher CVD risk than persistently low predicted BFMP. Additionally, those with a low to high change in predicted BFMP had a higher risk of CVD than those with persistently low predicted BFMP. Changes in body composition were accompanied by changes in metabolic markers.

Discussion

Maintaining high percentages of lean body and appendicular skeletal muscle mass and preventing an increase in fat mass may be beneficial in preventing CVD in breast cancer survivors.
Global burden, trends, and inequalities of ischemic heart disease among young adults from 1990 to 2019: a population-based study
Authors: Wu Peng , Yu Shuixiu , Wang Jun , Zou Shenglan , Yao De-Shan , Xiaochen Yuan
Published: November 2023

Background

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a major global health concern, and its burden among young adults aged 25–49 years remains underexplored. This study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the global burden and trends of IHD over the past 30 years (1990–2019) among this age group, as well as to analyze the health inequalities related to socioeconomic development.

Methods

Data from Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019) were utilized to analyze the prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rate of IHD among young adults globally. Joinpoint regression analysis was applied to examine the trends over the study period. Health inequality analysis was performed to investigate the disparities in IHD burden related to the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI) of countries.

Results

According to GBD 2019 data, in 2019, the global numbers of young adults with IHD cases, deaths, and DALYs were 18,050,671 (95% UI, 15,551,940–21,254,746), 597,137 (548,250–647,778), and 28,692,968 (26,397,448–31,178,464), respectively, accounting for 9.15%, 6.53%, and 15.7% of the total global cases. Over the past 30 years, the mortality [AAPC = −0.4%, 95% CI (−0.7% to −0.1%)] and DALYs rate [AAPC = −0.3%, 95% CI (−0.6% to −0.1%)] of IHD among young adults decreased, while the prevalence rate [AAPC = 0.4%, 95% CI (0.4%–0.4%)] and YLDs rate [AAPC = 0.4%, 95% CI (0.3%–0.4%)] increased. Furthermore, countries with lower levels of socio-demographic index (SDI) disproportionately bore a higher burden of IHD among young adults. The inequality slope index for young adult IHD shifted from −56.6 [95% CI (−480.4–370.2)] in 1990 to −583.0 [95% CI (−996.8 to −169.2)] in 2019, and the concentration index moved from −8.2 [95% CI (−8.5 to −7.9)] in 1990 to −13.2 [95% CI (−13.9 to −12.4)] in 2019.

Conclusions

While the mortality and DALYs rate of IHD among global young adults have decreased over the past 30 years, the degree of inequality related to SDI among countries has continued to increase. Decision-makers in various countries should allocate resources wisely and implement effective strategies to improve the burden of young adults IHD globally and address the health inequalities associated with it.
Smoking influence in Takotsubo syndrome: insights from an international cohort
Authors: Núñez-Gil Iván J. , Santoro Francesco , Vazirani Ravi , Novo Giuseppina , Blanco-Ponce Emilia , Arcari Luca , Uribarri Aitor , Cacciotti Luca , Guerra Federico , Salamanca Jorge , Musumeci Beatrice , Vedia Oscar , Mariano Enrica , Fernández-Cordón Clara , Caldarola Pasquale , Montisci Roberta , Brunetti Natale Daniele , El-Battrawy Ibrahim , Abumayyaleh Mohammad , Akin Ibrahim , Eitel Ingo , Stiermaier Thomas
Published: November 2023

Aims

To assess the influence of tobacco on acute and long-term outcomes in Takotsubo syndrome (TTS).

Methods

Patients with TTS from the international multicenter German Italian Spanish Takotsubo registry (GEIST) were analyzed. Comparisons between groups were performed within the overall cohort, and an adjusted analysis with 1:1 propensity score matching was conducted.

Results

Out of 3,152 patients with TTS, 534 (17%) were current smokers. Smoker TTS patients were younger (63 ± 11 vs. 72 ± 11 years, p < 0.001), less frequently women (78% vs. 90%, p < 0.001), and had a lower prevalence of hypertension (59% vs. 69%, p < 0.01) and diabetes mellitus (16% vs. 20%, p = 0.04), but had a higher prevalence of pulmonary (21% vs. 15%, p < 0.01) and/or psychiatric diseases (17% vs. 12%, p < 0.01). On multivariable analysis, age less than 65 years [OR 3.85, 95% CI (2.86–5)], male gender [OR 2.52, 95% CI (1.75–3.64)], history of pulmonary disease [OR 2.56, 95% CI (1.81–3.61)], coronary artery disease [OR 2.35, 95% CI (1.60–3.46)], and non-apical ballooning form [OR 1.47, 95% CI (1.02–2.13)] were associated with smoking status. Propensity score matching (PSM) 1:1 yielded 329 patients from each group. Smokers had a similar rate of in-hospital complications but longer in-hospital stays (10 vs. 9 days, p = 0.01). During long-term follow-up, there were no differences in mortality rates between smokers and non-smokers (5.6% vs. 6.9% yearly in the overall, p = 0.02, and 6.6%, vs. 7.2% yearly in the matched cohort, p = 0.97).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that smoking may influence the clinical presentation and course of TTS with longer in-hospital stays, but does not independently impact mortality.
A review of Lawshe’s method for calculating content validity in the social sciences
Authors: Romero Jeldres Marcela , Díaz Costa Elisabet , Faouzi Nadim Tarik
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to show the usefulness of Lawshe’s method (1975) in investigating the content validity of measurement instruments under the strategy of expert judgment. The research reviewed the historical use of Lawshe’s method in the social sciences and analyzed the main criticisms of this method using mathematical hypotheses. Subsequently, we experimented with an instrument designed to determine the pedagogical skills possessed by students undertaking initial teacher training in Chile. The results showed that in Lawshe’s proposal, it is essential to highlight the need to reconsider the sum of all Content Validity Ratio (CVR) indices for the calculation of the context validity index and not only the indices that exceed the critical Content Validity Index (CVI) given the greater power of discrimination presented by the latter alternative.
Interval model of a wind turbine power curve
Authors: Zhou Kai , Han Hao , Li Junfen , Wang Yongjie , Tang Wei , Han Fei , Li Yulei , Bi Ruyu , Zhao Haitao , Jiao Lingxiao
Published: November 2023

The wind turbine power curve model is critical to a wind turbine’s power prediction and performance analysis. However, abnormal data in the training set decrease the prediction accuracy of trained models. This paper proposes a sample average approach-based method to construct an interval model of a wind turbine, which increases robustness against abnormal data and further improves the model accuracy. We compare our proposed methods with the traditional neural network-based and Bayesian neural network-based models in experimental data-based validations. Our model shows better performance in both accuracy and computational time.
Understanding sustainability effectiveness on design strategy of ten-lane expressway merging areas based on entropy method
Authors: Yang Hang , Liu Yutong , Pan Binghong , Ren Xueyuan , Zhang Jiale , Yan Huang
Published: November 2023

Due to the rapid growth of traffic volume, some existing expressways are being transformed into two-way ten-lane configurations. The increased lane flexibility of two-way ten-lane expressways implies a more serious mixing of passenger and freight traffic, thus necessitating a focus on traffic organization, especially at bottleneck sections. This study, based on field-measured data and traffic simulation, investigates the traffic applicability of five expressway entrance forms: conventional interchange entrance ramp (CI), passenger vehicles and trucks separation (PVTS), lanes separation around interchange (LSI), both left-side and right-side entrance ramp (LRER) and the stacked composite cross-section expressway (CCE). Using a comprehensive evaluation method, it provides optimal design solutions for varying traffic volumes, truck ratios, and merging ratios. Comprehensive evaluation results indicate that for one-way total traffic volumes exceeding 9,000 veh/h and truck ratios above 25%, the PVTS form should be prioritized. The LSI scheme demonstrates significant advantages when the truck proportion is below 30% and the merging ratio is above 20%. Additionally, due to its relatively low construction cost, it can serve as a good substitute for the PVTS approach. The LRER plan is unsuitable for entrance sections due to poor traffic capacity, increased CO emissions, and foreseeable safety issues. The strengths and applicability of PVTS, LSI, and CCE can guide the choice of entrance forms for ten-lane expressways.
The impact of green finance on green economy development efficiency: based on panel data of 30 provinces in China
Authors: Liu Donglan , Chang Yingxian , Yao Honglei , Kang Yuxin
Published: November 2023

Within the framework of China’s socioeconomic transition from a phase of rapid growth to one of high-quality development, it becomes crucial to focus on advancing the green economy to sustain economic progress. Green finance plays a pivotal role in underpinning green industries and fostering the progression of a green economy. Under the auspices of green finance, social capital is increasingly directed towards industries that prioritize energy efficiency, low carbon emissions, and environmental friendliness, thereby spurring technological innovation and industrial metamorphosis in businesses. In this paper, data envelopment approach (DEA) is used to measure the green economic development efficiency of 30 Chinese provinces from 2008 to 2018 in general and by sub-region. The two-way fixed-effects model (Two-way FE) and difference-in-difference (DID) model are established to empirically analyze the effect of green finance on green economy development efficiency and the influence of green polices on these two, with sub-region models examining the heterogeneity of this impact in eastern, western and central regions. The findings suggest that green finance significantly enhances a positive influence on green economic development efficiency, albeit with regional variations. Furthermore, the implementation of green policies facilitates green finance and green economic development.
Key drivers affecting the spatial heterogeneity of the regeneration process in old-growth beech forests in southeastern Europe
Authors: Kanjevac Branko , Babić Violeta , Stajić Snežana , Martać Nikola , Pavlović Branka , Furtula Danilo , Čokeša Vlado
Published: November 2023

Understanding the processes occurring in old-growth forests and identifying their key aspects can significantly enrich modern forestry practices with innovative ideas and concepts. The natural regeneration process in beech old-growth forests exhibits distinct spatial heterogeneity and temporal variability. To define the key drivers that influence the spatial heterogeneity of regeneration processes and their effects, research was conducted in three beech old-growth forests situated in Serbia, Southeastern Europe: Felješana, Vinatovača, and Kukavica. In each old-growth forest, a network of circular sample plots with an area of 0.1 ha (totaling 45 plots) was established to gather data on structural characteristics and ecological conditions. Within each circular sample plot, data on the regeneration layer were collected on four square sample plots of 1 m2 (180 in total). Using linear mixed models, the key drivers of spatial heterogeneity of regeneration processes in beech old-growth forests were analyzed. Based on the results, several key factors contribute to the highly heterogeneous distribution of seedlings, including the canopy, the presence of a middle layer comprising young trees, ground vegetation, and soil stoniness, while a significant influence of the combined effect of the canopy and the presence of a middle layer of young trees is also defined. The spatial heterogeneity of the regeneration process is also represented through the assessment of the ratio between the abundance of one-year-old and older seedlings. The dominance of one-year-old seedlings intensifies with increased canopy density (in instances of very dense canopy (1.0), the ratio of one-year-old and older seedlings is 70:30%). Seedling growth characteristics are shaped by multiple factors, including the influence of the canopy, the presence of the middle layer of young trees, slope, and soil stoniness, with a substantial combined influence of the canopy and the middle layer of young trees. This indicates that the spatial variability of the regeneration process in beech old-growth forests is primarily driven by factors with a substantial individual influence, which may also act combined. It is of paramount importance to understand these factors and determine their influence on the regeneration process in managed beech forests.
Machine learning identified MDK score has prognostic value for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis based on integrated bulk and single cell expression data
Authors: Zhang Shichen , Zhang Lanlan , Wang Lu , Wang Hongqiu , Wu Jiaxin , Cai Haoyang , Mo Chunheng , Yang Jian
Published: November 2023

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal lung disease that poses a significant challenge to medical professionals due to its increasing incidence and prevalence coupled with the limited understanding of its underlying molecular mechanisms. In this study, we employed a novel approach by integrating five expression datasets from bulk tissue with single-cell datasets; they underwent pseudotime trajectory analysis, switch gene selection, and cell communication analysis. Utilizing the prognostic information derived from the GSE47460 dataset, we identified 22 differentially expressed switch genes that were correlated with clinical indicators as important genes. Among these genes, we found that the midkine (MDK) gene has the potential to serve as a marker of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis because its cellular communicating genes are differentially expressed in the epithelial cells. We then utilized midkine and its cellular communication-related genes to calculate the midkine score. Machine learning models were further constructed through midkine and related genes to predict Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis disease through the bulk gene expression datasets. The midkine score demonstrated a correlation with clinical indexes, and the machine learning model achieved an AUC of 0.94 and 0.86 in the Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis classification task based on lung tissue samples and peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples, respectively. Our findings offer valuable insights into the pathogenesis of Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, providing new therapeutic directions and target genes for further investigation.
Endosomal trafficking inhibitor EGA can control TLR7-mediated IFNα expression by human plasmacytoid dendritic cells
Authors: Wiest Matthew J. , Baert Laurie , Gu Chao , Gayler Kevin M. , Ham Hyoungjun , Gorvel Laurent , Keddis Mira T. , Griffing Leroy W. , Joo HyeMee , Gorvel Jean-Pierre , Billadeau Daniel D. , Kane Robert R. , Oh SangKon
Published: November 2023

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are the major producer of type 1 IFN in response to TLR7 agonists. Aberrant TLR7 activation and type 1 IFN expression by pDCs are linked to the pathogenesis of certain types of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study investigated the underlying mechanisms for TLR7-mediated cytokine expression by pDCs using a late endosome trafficking inhibitor, EGA (4-bromobenzaldehyde N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl) semicarbazone). We found that EGA treatment decreased IFNα expression by pDCs stimulated with imiquimod (R837), single-stranded RNA40, and influenza virus. EGA also decreased TNFα expression and secretion by R837-stimulated pDCs. Mechanistically, EGA treatment decreased phosphorylation of IKKα/β, STAT1, and p38, and prolonged degradation of IκBα. Furthermore, EGA treatment decreased the colocalization of 3F, a substituted adenine TLR7 agonist, with LAMP1+ compartments in pDCs. EGA was also capable of diminishing IFNα expression by SLE pDCs treated with R837 or live PR8/A/34 influenza viruses. Therefore, we concluded that trafficking of TLR7 agonists to LAMP1+ compartments is important for IFNα expression by pDCs. Data from this study support additional examinations of the potential benefits of EGA in treating type 1 IFN-associated inflammatory diseases in the future.
Shedding light on the molecular and regulatory mechanisms of TLR4 signaling in endothelial cells under physiological and inflamed conditions
Authors: Stierschneider Anna , Wiesner Christoph
Published: November 2023

Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) are part of the innate immune system. They are capable of recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPS) of microbes, and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) of damaged tissues. Activation of TLR4 initiates downstream signaling pathways that trigger the secretion of cytokines, type I interferons, and other pro-inflammatory mediators that are necessary for an immediate immune response. However, the systemic release of pro-inflammatory proteins is a powerful driver of acute and chronic inflammatory responses. Over the past decades, immense progress has been made in clarifying the molecular and regulatory mechanisms of TLR4 signaling in inflammation. However, the most common strategies used to study TLR4 signaling rely on genetic manipulation of the TLR4 or the treatment with agonists such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) derived from the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, which are often associated with the generation of irreversible phenotypes in the target cells or unintended cytotoxicity and signaling crosstalk due to off-target or pleiotropic effects. Here, optogenetics offers an alternative strategy to control and monitor cellular signaling in an unprecedented spatiotemporally precise, dose-dependent, and non-invasive manner. This review provides an overview of the structure, function and signaling pathways of the TLR4 and its fundamental role in endothelial cells under physiological and inflammatory conditions, as well as the advances in TLR4 modulation strategies.
Defining solute carrier transporter signatures of murine immune cell subsets
Authors: Aaes Tania Løve , Burgoa Cardás Javier , Ravichandran Kodi S.
Published: November 2023

Solute carrier (SLC) transporters are membrane-bound proteins that facilitate nutrient transport, and the movement across cellular membranes of various substrates ranging from ions to amino acids, metabolites and drugs. Recently, SLCs have gained increased attention due to their functional linkage to innate immunological processes such as the clearance of dead cells and anti-microbial defense. Further, the druggable nature of these transporters provides unique opportunities for improving outcomes in different immunological diseases. Although the SLCs represent the largest group of transporters and are often identified as significant hits in omics data sets, their role in immunology has been insufficiently explored. This is partly due to the absence of tools that allow identification of SLC expression in particular immune cell types and enable their comparison before embarking on functional studies. In this study, we used publicly available RNA-Seq data sets to analyze the transcriptome in adaptive and innate immune cells, focusing on differentially and highly expressed SLCs. This revealed several new insights: first, we identify differentially expressed SLC transcripts in phagocytes (macrophages, dendritic cells, and neutrophils) compared to adaptive immune cells; second, we identify new potential immune cell markers based on SLC expression; and third, we provide user-friendly online tools for researchers to explore SLC genes of interest (and the rest of the genes as well), in three-way comparative dot plots among immune cells. We expect this work to facilitate SLC research and comparative transcriptomic studies across different immune cells.
Assessment of treatment response in cardiac sarcoidosis based on myocardial 18F-FDG uptake
Authors: Frischknecht Lukas , Schaab Jan , Schmauch Eloi , Yalamanoglu Ayla , Arnold Dennis D. , Schwaiger Judith , Gruner Christiane , Buechel Ronny R. , Franzen Daniel P. , Kolios Antonios G.A. , Nilsson Jakob
Published: November 2023

Objective

Immunosuppressive therapy for cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) still largely consists of corticosteroid monotherapy. However, high relapse rates after tapering and insufficient efficacy are significant problems. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of non-biological and biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (nb/bDMARDs) considering control of myocardial inflammation assessed by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) of the heart.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of treatment response to nb/bDMARDs of all CS patients seen in the sarcoidosis center of the University Hospital Zurich between January 2016 and December 2020.

Results

We identified 50 patients with CS. Forty-five patients with at least one follow-up PET/CT scan were followed up for a mean of 20.5 ± 12.8 months. Most of the patients were treated with prednisone and concomitant nb/bDMARDs. At the first follow-up PET/CT scan after approximately 6.7 ± 3 months, only adalimumab showed a significant reduction in cardiac metabolic activity. Furthermore, comparing all serial follow-up PET/CT scans (143), tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi)-based therapies showed statistically significant better suppression of myocardial 18F-FDG uptake compared to other treatment regimens. On the last follow-up, most adalimumab-treated patients were inactive (n = 15, 48%) or remitting (n = 11, 35%), and only five patients (16%) were progressive. TNFi was safe even in patients with severely reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and a significant improvement in LVEF under TNFi treatment was observed.

Conclusion

TNFi shows better control of myocardial inflammation compared to nbDMARDs and corticosteroid monotherapies in patients with CS. TNFi was efficient and safe even in patients with severely reduced LVEF.
Platelets interact with CD169+ macrophages and cDC1 and enhance liposome-induced CD8+ T cell responses
Authors: Grabowska Joanna , Léopold Valentine , Olesek Katarzyna , Nijen Twilhaar Maarten K. , Affandi Alsya J. , Brouwer Mieke C. , Jongerius Ilse , Verschoor Admar , van Kooten Cees , van Kooyk Yvette , Storm Gert , van ‘t Veer Cornelis , den Haan Joke M. M.
Published: November 2023

Historically platelets are mostly known for their crucial contribution to hemostasis, but there is growing understanding of their role in inflammation and immunity. The immunomodulatory role of platelets entails interaction with pathogens, but also with immune cells including macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), to activate adaptive immune responses. In our previous work, we have demonstrated that splenic CD169+ macrophages scavenge liposomes and collaborate with conventional type 1 DCs (cDC1) to induce expansion of CD8+ T cells. Here, we show that platelets associate with liposomes and bind to DNGR-1/Clec9a and CD169/Siglec-1 receptors in vitro. In addition, platelets interacted with splenic CD169+ macrophages and cDC1 and further increased liposome internalization by cDC1. Most importantly, platelet depletion prior to liposomal immunization resulted in significantly diminished antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses, but not germinal center B cell responses. Previously, complement C3 was shown to be essential for platelet-mediated CD8+ T cell activation during bacterial infection. However, after liposomal vaccination CD8+ T cell priming was not dependent on complement C3. While DCs from platelet-deficient mice exhibited unaltered maturation status, they did express lower levels of CCR7. In addition, in the absence of platelets, CCL5 plasma levels were significantly reduced. Overall, our findings demonstrate that platelets engage in a cross-talk with CD169+ macrophages and cDC1 and emphasize the importance of platelets in induction of CD8+ T cell responses in the context of liposomal vaccination.