bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGENDALIAN DRYER DALAM MENJAGA KONSISTENSI MUTU PRODUK KARET
Authors: Puspawan Angky , Nur Rois Rasyidin , Nuramal Agus , Helmizar  , Witanto Yovan
Published: January 2024

This research aims to process rubber latex into SIR 20 at PT. Bukit Angkasa Makmur and the performance of the dryer machine in controlling the quality of SIR 20 rubber. The data collection method for this practical work is carried out based on the source. The data can be divided into two, namely primary data and secondary data. From the results of this research it was found that analyzing the quality of SIR 20 rubber products on dryer machine performance in controlling temperature, material weight and rubber density on the trolley on the dryer machine must be given great attention and really maintained so that product quality does not experience a decline in quality (rubber product defects). Rubber product defects occur due to many human/human factors, machine factors, temperature factors, material factors, environmental factors. The dryer process is a process of drying crumb rubber by removing water content with the aim of preserving it, making it easier to transport, and preparing for the next process. This process really determines the final quality of the rubber because without drying it cannot be produced because the quality does not meet the standard specification requirements. The heat used in the dryer machine comes from the biomass burning process, namely using palm shells as the main fuel in the combustion machine, heat from the machine. The combustion flows through an iron pipe to the dryer machine as heat in the crumb rubber drying process. A dryer machine is a machine used to make rubber dry and cook the rubber crumbs so that they can be processed further. This research was carried out from December 2022 to January 2023, at PT. Bukit Angkasa Makmur. For a series of experiments carried out on the problem of overcoming rubber quality problems, because the mixing of raw material quality and rubber cleanliness greatly influences the rise and fall of rubber quality.
TOWARDS UNDERSTANDING NATURAL ALPHA-GLUCOSIDASE INHIBITORS: A COMPUTATIONAL STUDY
Authors: MUHAMMED Muhammed Tilahun , AKSOY Nesli , KRILMAZ Aybüke , TÜRKMEN Enise
Published: January 2024

Objective: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder affecting hundreds of millions of people around the world. It is characterized by hyperglycemia caused by impaired glucose homeostasis that results from insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance. There are clinically available α-glucosidase inhibitor drugs that are used to decrease postprandial blood glucose level. However, these drugs have side effects that necessitated the discovery of new α-glucosidase inhibitors with less side effects and high potency. The interest in the use of natural products to deal with diabetes has been increasing. Therefore, the potential of natural α-glucosidase inhibitors to inhibit the enzyme was investigated through computational methods.
Material and Method: The binding potential of selected natural α-glucosidase inhibitors was investigated through molecular docking. Thereafter, the stability of the complexes with the highest binding potential were assessed through molecular dynamics (MD) simulation.
Result and Discussion: The molecular docking demonstrated that compound 2 had better binding potential than the standard drug, acarbose. Compound 7 had comparable binding potential to the standard drug. Furthermore, all the tested compounds exhibited a reasonable binding potential towards the enzyme but were weaker than the standard drug. The MD simulation demonstrated that compounds 2 and 7 gave complexes with similar stability to the standard drug. The overall computational results revealed that the natural inhibitors investigated had the ability to bind to the enzyme and formed stable complexes. Therefore, these compounds could be potential α-glucosidase inhibitors for clinical use. For this reason, further in vitro investigations on compounds with the highest binding potential is recommended.
Penambahan Bambu Bulat Pada Balok Beton Pracetak Menggunakan Software Berbasis Elemen Hingga
Authors: Kurniawan Eka Yudha , Umniati B. Sri , Karyadi Karyadi
Published: January 2024

Post-earthquake development in Indonesia is a complex challenge that requires cross-sectoral efforts and support from various parties. Indonesia is prone to earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an active area of earthquakes and volcanic activity. The use of precast concrete has a number of important advantages in earthquake-prone areas but the connection between joints can be a weak point if not done properly. This study will discuss the connection system, connection location, and details. The research method used is numerical analysis using finite element-based software. It is concluded that the connection system used has not been able to reach the capacity of the monolith beam without connection, while the addition of bamboo does not have a significant effect on the bending capacity of the beam.
Simulasi Progres Proyek Konstruksi Time Performance Menggunakan Earned Value Management dengan Integrasi Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Setiyono Setiyono , Hajji Apif Miptahul , Larasati Aisyah , Alfianto Imam
Published: January 2024

Digitization of construction using technologies such as AI, Big Data, Machine Learning, and Internet of Things (IoT) can help improve the productivity and efficiency of the construction industry. Machine learning methods such as Artificial Neural Network (ANN) are used to solve complex problems, including in construction projects. In addition, Earned Value Management (EVM) is used as a method to analyze and control project performance and estimate project completion time. Although EVM has the disadvantage of predicting estimated project completion times that are linear in nature, the use of non-linear methods such as Artificial Neural Network can help improve the accuracy of estimating project completion times that are complex and have a high degree of variation. This research aims to analyze the physical achievements of the work and predict estimates of work completion using Earned Value Management which is integrated with the Artificial Neural Network on the Advanced Development Project for Facilities and Infrastructure of the Sanggabuana Karawang Training Area Maintenance Detachment (Sarpras Denharrahlat) belonging to the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. By using EVM and ANN, project management can be improved in terms of cost control, scheduling, and better estimation of project completion time. The data analysis method used is EVM. The data analyzed is Week, Planned Value and Earned Value. The three data are then plotted and translated in graphical form to calculate the Schedule Variance and Schedule Performance Index to evaluate the project. After conducting an analysis using the EVM, then a predictive model is formed to calculate the estimated project completion time using the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) method. Next, optimization of the predictive model is carried out to reduce the level of prediction error. The Software used to build predictive models is RapidMiner. At week 26, work progress was 100% ahead of plan, with an Earned Schedule value of 31.00. This indicates that the project has been completed in accordance with the target time. Certain parameter modifications to the optimal model include training cycles of 100, learning rate of 0.316, and momentum of 0.316. With these parameter settings, the model produces the most accurate predictions with a low prediction error rate.
Analisa Perbandingan Penurunan Awal Bendungan Tipe Material Timbunan Urugan Batu dan Urugan Tanah (Studi Kasus Bendungan Digoel-Papua)
Authors: Erlangga Erlangga , Sadono Kresno Wikan , Putranto Thomas Triadi
Published: January 2024

To create prosperity for the people of Papua Province. The government has made one of the programs, namely the construction of the Digoel Dam in Boven Digoel Regency – Papua. The successful construction and operation of a dam requires a comprehensive evaluation of the design prior to commencement of the construction process. This study aims to analyze the initial settlement that occurred in the Digoel dam type earth fill and rock fill. Initial settlement analysis was carried out using the modulus parameter obtained from the literature. SIGMA/W software has been used to estimate dam crest settlement due to static loading. From the results of the analysis of the initial settlement of the dam with the rock fill and earth fill types, it is accepted that the maximum permissible settlement is 1.59%.
Evaluasi Biaya dan Waktu pada Pembangunan Gedung Kantor Bupati Pasuruan Dengan Metode Earned Value
Authors: Feriyanto Ardi , Hajji Apif Miptahul , Alfianto Imam
Published: January 2024

The Pasuruan Regent Office Building Construction Project is a very important project because it involves the implementation of services to the community so that timeliness and quality in the implementation of development is a must. In week 17 the project experienced delays in implementation where in week 17 the progress plan was 36.906% but the facts in the field were still 22.70% so that there was a delay deviation of -14.204%. This study aims to serve as an early warning and evaluate the performance that is indicated to experience delays so that future realization progress can be carried out in accordance with the plan schedule. The method used is Earned Value Analysis which is a project management method used to measure and analyze project performance based on a comparison between the actual value of the work that has been completed (Earned Value, EV), the costs that have been incurred (Actual Cost, AC), and the estimated costs that should be incurred (Planned Value, PV) at a certain point in the project. EVM is a useful tool for monitoring project progress, identifying potential problems, and making predictions about how the project will proceed. Existing data is analyzed to obtain a prediction of the final state of project completion related to the estimated cost and schedule required. Data collection is carried out by collecting documents related to construction projects. From the results of the analysis, it was found that.
The Effectiveness of Traffic Flow Scenarios during Eid Al-Fitr at The Sidoarjo Tollgates Based on Microsimulation Modeling
Authors: Radiansyah Kusuma Aji , Isheka Raihan Pasha , Aurarisa Ilma
Published: January 2024

On the eve of Eid al-Fitr 2023, there was an increase in the number of vehicles heading eastbound of Java Island through the Transjawa Toll Road from the normal traffic flow. The drastic increase in vehicle volume resulted in congestion at the Sidoarjo Tollgate. An effort to unravel the existing traffic congestion was to implement diversion and contraflow scenarios. This study was conducted to prove the most effective scenario to overcome transportation problems during the homecoming flow through microscopic simulations using PTV VISSIM software. In the diversion scenario, 35% of vehicles heading south will be diverted to exit through Sidoarjo 1 Tollgate. This scenario caused an increase in queue length by 34.66% and a delay of 28 seconds at Sidoarjo 1 Tollgate. On the other hand, with the same scenario, there is a decrease in queue length of 16.84% and a decrease in delay time of 58 seconds at Sidoarjo 2 Tollgate. Regarding average speed, there is a decrease of 18.24% on the road section after Sidoarjo 2 Tollgate due to merging. Under the contraflow scenario, there is no significant change in queue length and delay time at both gates, but there is an increase in the average speed of 62.22% at Sidoarjo 2 Tollgate. The simulation showed that the diversion scenario only moves the density of vehicles. In contrast, the contraflow scenario was an effective alternative to break down the density in the 2023 homecoming flow, as evidenced by the increased average speed.
Shaping the Future of Cardiac Wellness: Exploring Revolutionary Approaches in Disease Management and Prevention
Authors: Addissouky Tamer A. , El Tantawy El Sayed Ibrahim , Ali Majeed M. A. , Wang Yuliang , El Baz Ayman , Elarabany Naglaa , Khalil Ahmed A.
Published: January 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Effective prevention and management strategies are essential to reduce the burden of CVDs. This review summarizes recent advances in the prevention and management of CVDs. In terms of prevention, lifestyle modifications, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation, remain important strategies. Pharmacological interventions, including statins, antiplatelet agents, and antihypertensive medications, have also shown benefits. Innovative approaches, such as genetic testing and risk stratification, targeted prevention strategies, and the use of mobile health technology, are being explored. In terms of management, acute management strategies, such as reperfusion therapy for myocardial infarction, acute heart failure management, and stroke management, have improved outcomes. Chronic management strategies, including medical therapy for heart failure, arrhythmia management, and device therapy for heart failure, have also shown benefits. Innovative approaches, such as precision medicine and personalized treatment, the use of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and treatment, and advances in traditional Chinese and regenerative medicine, are being investigated. While recent advances in the prevention and management of CVDs are promising, challenges remain in implementing these strategies, including cost-effectiveness, access to care, and resistance to change in clinical practice. Continued research and innovation are essential to reduce the burden of CVDs and improve patient outcomes.
TRANSFORMASI PARADIGMA USHUL FIQIH: KONTINUITAS DAN PERUBAHAN DALAM PEMIKIRAN HUKUM ISLAM
Authors: Muhammad Najib
Published: January 2024

Science is always developing and will continue to develop with the times, as is the science of ushul fiqh. This scientific discipline has periods or phases in its development. Starting from the embryonic phase until the modern century. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the development of the science of ushul fiqh and explore paradigm shifts in ulus fiqh thinking from the early period to the modern era. These include analyzing the factors that cause paradigm changes, continuity in the principles of fiqh, and the impact of this transformation on the understanding of Islamic law in the contemporary context. The methodology used is descriptive qualitative. The results of the analysis of the development of ushul fiqh show that change is important, because problems are always developing. Likewise, the science of ushul fiqh, from the embryonic phase to the modern phase, from mutaqaddimin to mutaakkhirin. The changes, problems and perspectives we face are of course different, so that all existing problems can be answered optimally. Even though the methods are different, in principle they have the same goal, namely how to ground the Islamic Salih Li Kulli Zaman Wa Makan law.
Edukasi Dagusibu Antibiotik Bagi Masyarakat Kelurahan Sambutan Samarinda
Authors: Supriningrum Risa , Adhilla Ghina , Ajeng Dwi
Published: January 2024

Efforts to increase public knowledge and understanding about the use of antibiotics need to be made. This is because many people assume that antibiotic drugs are drugs to cure various diseases. This growing phenomenon among the community is motivated by the lack of knowledge related to the use of antibiotics. Education on Dagusibu (Get, Use, Store and Dispose) antibiotics is expected to increase people's understanding of how to get, use, store and dispose of antibiotics and can implement it in everyday life, especially in the immediate family environment. This community service activity by lecturers of the College of Health Sciences was carried out in Sambutan Village, Sambutan District, Samarinda, East Kalimantan. The counseling participants were PKK mothers and Posyandu cadres who were expected to disseminate the information we had conveyed to the surrounding community.

Keywords: Dagusibu, antibiotics, Sambutan Village
Los problemas de solvencia de las entidades bancarias continúan
Authors: Sánchez Mato Carlos , Garzón Espinosa Eduardo , Medialdea García Bibiana
Published: January 2024

Para abordar los problemas de los modelos de gestión de los riesgos bancarios, la regulación implementada en Basilea III recogió un criterio más estricto en el cálculo del capital, pero el cálculo de las ponderaciones por riesgo de los activos sigue delegándose en los bancos.

En el artículo abordamos cuál ha sido la evolución de los activos ponderados por riesgo de las entidades de depósito de España que muestra la estrategia seguida en el período 2008-2021 y el impacto que ha tenido su reducción en la mejora de la solvencia y su capacidad para hacer frente a crisis futuras.
Comercio entre China y América Latina: tratados de libre comercio y alianzas estratégicas
Authors: López Arévalo Jorge Alberto , López Bencomo Jorge Eduardo
Published: January 2024

Este trabajo estudia los intercambios bilaterales de China con Chile, Costa Rica y Perú desde la óptica del comercio intra-industrial en el periodo 2000-2022. En particular, se analizan las diferencias en el patrón de inserción intra-industrial en un contexto marcado por la existencia de tratados de libre comercio con China. Por otro lado, el comercio de China con algunos países que lo consideran su aliado geopolítico e ideológico, como es el caso de Cuba, Venezuela y Bolivia.

Los resultados muestran una inserción de bajo perfil intra-industrial, con la excepción de algunas partidas específicas relativas a productos eléctricos y de la industria automotriz. Se puede apreciar que los países de América Latina y el Caribe con los que China tiene tratados de libre comercio, tiene un comercio más significativo que con aquellos que, desde América Latina y el Caribe, consideran que China es su socio geopolítico.
Carbon and nitrogen optimization in solid-state fermentation for sustainable sophorolipid production using industrial waste
Authors: Eras-Muñoz Estefanía , Gea Teresa , Font Xavier
Published: January 2024

Graphical Abstract

The graphical abstract of this study.
The role of natural killer T cells in liver transplantation
Authors: Zhao Wenchao , Li Mingqian , Song Shifei , Zhi Yao , Huan Chen , Lv Guoyue
Published: January 2024

Natural killer T cells (NKTs) are innate-like lymphocytes that are abundant in the liver and participate in liver immunity. NKT cells express both NK cell and T cell markers, modulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Type I and Type II NKT cells are classified according to the TCR usage, while they recognize lipid antigen in a non-classical major histocompatibility (MHC) molecule CD1d-restricted manner. Once activated, NKT cells can quickly produce cytokines and chemokines to negatively or positively regulate the immune responses, depending on the different NKT subsets. In liver transplantation (LTx), the immune reactions in a series of processes determine the recipients’ long-term survival, including ischemia-reperfusion injury, alloresponse, and post-transplant infection. This review provides insight into the research on NKT cells subpopulations in LTx immunity during different processes, and discusses the shortcomings of the current research on NKT cells. Additionally, the CD56-expressing T cells are recognized as a NK-like T cell population, they were also discussed during these processes.
Zoonosis and zooanthroponosis of emerging respiratory viruses
Authors: Khalil Ahmed Magdy , Martinez-Sobrido Luis , Mostafa Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Lung infections in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) are triggered by a variety of respiratory viruses. All human pandemics have been caused by the members of two major virus families, namely Orthomyxoviridae (influenza A viruses (IAVs); subtypes H1N1, H2N2, and H3N2) and Coronaviridae (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS−CoV−2). These viruses acquired some adaptive changes in a known intermediate host including domestic birds (IAVs) or unknown intermediate host (SARS-CoV-2) following transmission from their natural reservoirs (e.g. migratory birds or bats, respectively). Verily, these acquired adaptive substitutions facilitated crossing species barriers by these viruses to infect humans in a phenomenon that is known as zoonosis. Besides, these adaptive substitutions aided the variant strain to transmit horizontally to other contact non-human animal species including pets and wild animals (zooanthroponosis). Herein we discuss the main zoonotic and reverse-zoonosis events that occurred during the last two pandemics of influenza A/H1N1 and SARS-CoV-2. We also highlight the impact of interspecies transmission of these pandemic viruses on virus evolution and possible prophylactic and therapeutic interventions. Based on information available and presented in this review article, it is important to close monitoring viral zoonosis and viral reverse zoonosis of pandemic strains within a One-Health and One-World approach to mitigate their unforeseen risks, such as virus evolution and resistance to limited prophylactic and therapeutic interventions.
Regulation and functions of the NLRP3 inflammasome in RNA virus infection
Authors: Yue Zhaoyang , Zhang Xuelong , Gu Yu , Liu Ying , Lan Lin-Miaoshen , Liu Yilin , Li Yongkui , Yang Ge , Wan Pin , Chen Xin
Published: January 2024

Virus infection is one of the greatest threats to human life and health. In response to viral infection, the host’s innate immune system triggers an antiviral immune response mostly mediated by inflammatory processes. Among the many pathways involved, the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has received wide attention in the context of viral infection. The NLRP3 inflammasome is an intracellular sensor composed of three components, including the innate immune receptor NLRP3, adaptor apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD (ASC), and the cysteine protease caspase-1. After being assembled, the NLRP3 inflammasome can trigger caspase-1 to induce gasdermin D (GSDMD)-dependent pyroptosis, promoting the maturation and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18). Recent studies have revealed that a variety of viruses activate or inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome via viral particles, proteins, and nucleic acids. In this review, we present a variety of regulatory mechanisms and functions of the NLRP3 inflammasome upon RNA viral infection and demonstrate multiple therapeutic strategies that target the NLRP3 inflammasome for anti-inflammatory effects in viral infection.
Palaeoenvironmental data indicate late quaternary anthropogenic impacts on vegetation and landscapes in Mzimba, northern Malawi
Authors: Wright David K. , Ivory Sarah J. , Birk Jago J. , Choi Jeong-Heon , Davies Benjamin , Fiedler Sabine , Davis Jacob , Kaliba Potiphar , Thompson Jessica C.
Published: January 2024

Landscapes are formed by long-term interactions between the underlying geology and climatic, edaphic and biotic factors, including human activity. The Kasitu Valley in the Mzimba District of northern Malawi includes the Kasitu River and its adjacent floodplains and uplands, and it has been a location of sustained human occupation since at least 16 thousand years ago (ka) based on archaeological excavations from rockshelters. We trace the changing ecology and geomorphology of the region through soil stable isotopes (δ13C, δ 15N), microcharcoal and fossil pollen analysed from alluvial terraces dated by Optically Stimulated Luminescence, and wetland auger cores and archaeological sites dated by radiocarbon. Our results suggest that the region was primarily covered in mosaic forest at ca. 22.5 ka. Middle and Late Holocene samples (6.0–0.5 ka) show an increasingly open, herbaceous landscape over time with an inflection toward more abundant C4 vegetation after 2 ka. Significant upland erosion and terrace formation is also evidenced since 2 ka alongside high concentrations of microcharcoal, suggesting more intensive use of fire. Faecal biomarkers simultaneously indicate higher numbers of humans living adjacent to the archaeological site of Hora 1, which may be indicative of an overall population increase associated with the arrival of Iron Age agropastoralists. More recently, the introduction of exogenous commercial taxa such as Pinus sp. are correlated with regional afforestation in our proxy record. These results show increasing stepwise human impacts on the local environment, with deforestation and maintenance of open landscapes correlated with the regional introduction and intensification of agriculture during the Late Holocene.
Software Defined Radio, a perspective from education
Authors: Ramos Mario Andrés , Camacho Raul , Buitrago Paola Andrea , Urda Robert David , Restrepo Julio Pastor
Published: January 2024

The evolution of communication systems has brought about a paradigm shift, particularly in radiocommunications, where software has increasingly taken precedence over hardware. This transition has not only reduced implementation costs but has also significantly enhanced the flexibility of equipment architecture. A prime example of this trend is the emergence and consolidation of software-defined radio (SDR) technology in recent decades. This study provides a comprehensive contextualization of SDR technology, offering insights into its current state in terms of development tools and market equipment. Additionally, two learning scenarios are presented that employ different teaching methodologies. In one of these scenarios, communication theory is exclusively approached from a theoretical perspective. In the second scenario, knowledge acquisition is encouraged through the implementation of low-cost laboratories that incorporate SDR technology. The study indicates that implementing SDR technology boosts student motivation and learning, with 73.13% believing it enhances engineering education and 96% showing increased motivation. Those using SDR in practical laboratories perform better on knowledge tests, but statistical analysis shows that the difference is not statistically significant.
The effectiveness of the educational preparation program from the point of view of field training students specializing in social studies
Authors: Hendawi Manal , Nosair Mohammad , Qadhi Saba , Ashraah Mamduh Menazel
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The study aims to assess the students’ views in the field training about the educational preparation program in social studies at Qatar University. The research is grounded in the adult learning theory as it involves the adult learning behaviors toward an educator preparation program.

Methods

Primary quantitative research design is set up in the study to analyze the students’ views. Moreover, a questionnaire is administered to gauge the opinions on six dimensions relevant to the Educational Preparation Programs (EPP). Finally, a descriptive research approach is used where the responses from 239 males and females were both included in the study [Male = 41 (17.2%), Female = 198 (82.8%)] students teachers are analyzed. The researchers also used interviews with 30 female students to reach their opinion about the efficiency of the teacher preparation program that they studied for 4 years at the university.

Results

According to current study results, the demographic factors do not impact the views of the field-training students in the social studies about the EPP in Qatar University.

Discussion

The results raise the question of a potential that teachers’ self-efficacy and characteristics of EPP should be added in the dimensions for which the students’ views are gauged in future studies.
Fracture size inversion method based on water hammer signal for shale reservoir
Authors: Zeng Bo , Wei Shengjie , Su Yuliang , Gui Junchuan , Feng Jiangrong , Guo Yintong , Lyu Peihong
Published: January 2024

Hydraulic fracturs size inversion plays an important role on evaluating hydraulic fracturing efficiency. Fracture size can be calculated by microseism events or all the pressure data generated by hydraulic fracturing stimulations. These methods are time-consuming. However, the sudden shutoff of pumping can induce a special data known as the water hammer signal. The size of this data is much fewer than others so using it to calculate fracture size is efficient. This study proposes a method of using water hammer signal to work out the hydraulic fracture size. The numerical simulation model is proposed based on the transient flow model to describe the water hammer behavior. The impacts of fracture on water hammer behavior are represented by three parameters (R,C and I). Through these parameters, the fracture size can be calculated. The accuracy of this method is validated by comparing fracture size inversion results between different methods. The results show that the parameter C and R have obvious impacts on water hammer signal and they can cause the amplitude of water hammer signal alternate from 5 to 2 MPa. In addition, this method is accurate for fracture size calculation and the overall error between its results and ones from normal methods is about 6.28%. This method is more suitable for fractures away from horizontal well toe than ones near to well toe. The mean error of fractures away from well toe is only 3.49% but it is 12.75% for fracture near well toe. It is because that the fracture structure is complex near well toe. It indicates that the more accurate relationship between fracture size and parameters (R,C and I) is required for fracture with complex structure.
Near real-time retrieval of lake surface water temperature using Himawari-8 satellite imagery and machine learning techniques: a case study in the Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Shi Kaifang , Han Jing-Cheng , Wang Peng
Published: January 2024

Lake Surface Water Temperature (LSWT) is essential for understanding and regulating various processes in lake ecosystems. Remote sensing for large-scale aquatic monitoring offers valuable insights, but its limitations call for a dynamic LSWT monitoring model. This study developed multiple machine learning models for LSWT retrieval of four representative freshwater lakes in the Yangtze River Basin using Himawari-8 (H8) remote sensing imagery and in-situ data. Based on the in situ monitoring dataset in Lake Chaohu, the dynamic LSWT retrieval models were effectively configured and validated to perform H8-based remote sensing inversion. The test results showed that six models provided satisfactory LSWT retrievals, with the Back Propagation (BP) neural network model achieving the highest accuracy with an R-squared (R2) value of 0.907, a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 2.52°C, and a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 1.68°C. Furthermore, this model exhibited universality, performing well in other lakes within the Yangtze River Basin, including Taihu, Datonghu and Dongtinghu. The ability to derive robust LSWT estimates confirms the feasibility of real-time LSWT retrieval using synchronous satellites, offering a more efficient and accurate approach for LSWT monitoring in the Yangtze River Basin. Thus, this proposed model would serve as a valuable tool to support the implementation of more informed policies for aquatic environmental conservation and sustainable water resource management, addressing challenges such as climate change, water pollution, and ecosystem restoration.
OPN promotes pro-inflammatory cytokine expression via ERK/JNK pathway and M1 macrophage polarization in Rosacea
Authors: Tang Siyi , Hu Hao , Li Manhui , Zhang Kaoyuan , Wu Qi , Liu Xiaojuan , Wu Lin , Yu Bo , Chen Xiaofan
Published: January 2024

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis that involves dysregulation of innate and adaptive immune systems. Osteopontin (OPN) is a phosphorylated glycoprotein produced by a broad range of immune cells such as macrophages, keratinocytes, and T cells. However, the role of OPN in rosacea remains to be elucidated. In this study, it was found that OPN expression was significantly upregulated in rosacea patients and LL37-induced rosacea-like skin inflammation. Transcriptome sequencing results indicated that OPN regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoted macrophage polarization towards M1 phenotype in rosacea-like skin inflammation. In vitro, it was demonstrated that intracellular OPN (iOPN) promoted LL37-induced IL1B production through ERK1/2 and JNK pathways in keratinocytes. Moreover, secreted OPN (sOPN) played an important role in keratinocyte-macrophage crosstalk. In conclusion, sOPN and iOPN were identified as key regulators of the innate immune system and played different roles in the pathogenesis of rosacea.
Clinical characteristics of Chinese neonates with neonatal-onset multisystem inflammatory disease: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhao Cui , Liu Chen , Li Xiaoying
Published: January 2024

Background

Neonatal-onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID) is a rare and severe autoinflammatory disease caused by mutations of the NLRP3 gene and is characterized by a skin rash, fever, arthropathy, and neurologic manifestations. We herein report a neonatal case with recurrent rash, fever, and meningitis from 12 h after birth, and NOMID was diagnosed during the neonatal period. We also reviewed the clinical characteristics and genetic mutations of previously reported Chinese neonates with NOMID.

Case presentation and literature review

NOMID is rare in China, and there have been over 100 cases uncovered thus far, including ours. The patient we reported here was the youngest among the confirmed Chinese cases and had the de novo mutation c.1210G>C (p.V404L) in exon 4 of the NLRP3 gene, which has not been reported previously. All 25 patients manifested recurrent urticaria-like rash, and 24 were febrile. Of the 23 patients with genetic data available, all had NLRP3 mutations. The primary treatment of these patients entailed glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants; however, the IL-1 inhibitor was rarely used due to its current unavailability in China. One patient was cured by umbilical cord blood stem cell transplantation (UCBT), which provided an alternative treatment.

Conclusion

We recommend that NOMID be considered for neonates with recurrent rash, fever, and aseptic meningitis. However, further research on underlying mechanisms and therapeutic regimens in China is necessary to provide improved management.
Clinicopathological and prognostic characteristics of idiopathic membranous nephropathy with dual antigen positivity
Authors: Yang Lei , Wang Guoqin , Ye Nan , Xu Xiaoyi , Cheng Wenrong , Sun Lijun , Dong Hongrui , Kong Lingqiang , Zhao Xiaoyi , Geng Yanqiu , Cheng Hong
Published: January 2024

Background

Idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is the most common pathological type in adults with nephrotic syndrome. Many target antigens have been discovered. However, dual antigen-positive IMN patients are very rare, with only a few such cases being briefly described in various studies. There is no specific study on the clinicopathological and prognostic characteristics of dual antigen-positive IMN patients, and the disease characteristics of such patients remain unclear.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining of PLA2R, THSD7A, and NELL-1 was conducted on kidney tissue samples obtained from patients diagnosed with IMN. Simultaneously, the presence of corresponding serum antibodies was determined. Patients exhibiting positivity for dual antigens were included in the study, identified either through tissue staining or serum antibody detection. We retrospectively collected their clinical, pathological, and follow-up data and measured their serum antibody levels at multiple time points. Additionally, the same type of dual antigen-positive IMN cases reported in the literature were reviewed to extract clinical, pathological, and prognostic information. We compared the data for all of the above dual antigen-positive and PLA2R single-positive IMN cases at our center.

Results

We identified 6 IMN patients with dual antigen positivity at our center, approximately 0.7% of whole MN series; the previous literature reports 43 IMN patients with dual antigen positivity, the proportion ranged from 0.2% to 2.8%. The IgG1 positivity rate in the renal tissue of the dual antigen-positive patients at our center was significantly lower than that of dual antigen-positive patients previously reported (16.7% vs. 100.0%, p=0.015), but there was no significant difference in clinical or prognostic aspects. Patients with dual antigen positivity reported at our center and in the literature were combined and compared with PLA2R single-positive IMN reported at our center. Compared with PLA2R single-positive IMN patients, dual antigen-positive IMN patients had a higher renal tissue IgG1 positivity rate (58.3% vs. 22.3%, p=0.016), and the time required to achieve remission was longer [13.5 (3.3,35.0) vs. 3.0 (1.0,8.0), p=0.052]. Overall, The changes in urine protein were consistent with the changes in serum PLA2R antibody levels in dual antigen-positive IMN patients.

Conclusions

For patients with primary membranous nephropathy who did not attain remission following prolonged treatment, multiple target antigen staining should still be actively performed, even with positivity for the PLA2R target antigen.
Expert consensus on the use of systemic glucocorticoids for managing eosinophil-related diseases
Authors: del Pozo Victoria , Bobolea Irina , Rial Manuel J. , Espigol-Frigolé Georgina , Solans Laqué Roser , Hernández-Rivas Jesús María , Mora Elvira , Crespo-Lessmann Astrid , Izquierdo Alonso José Luis , Domínguez Sosa María Sandra , Maza-Solano Juan , Atienza-Mateo Belén , Bañas-Conejero David , Moure Abraham L. , Rúa-Figueroa Íñigo
Published: January 2024

Eosinophil-related diseases represent a group of pathologic conditions with highly heterogeneous clinical presentation and symptoms ranging from mild to critical. Both systemic and localized forms of disease are typically treated with glucocorticoids. The approval of novel biologic therapies targeting the interleukin-5 pathway can help reduce the use of systemic glucocorticoids (SGC) in eosinophilic diseases and reduce the risk of SGC-related adverse effects (AEs). In this article, a panel of experts from different medical specialties reviewed current evidence on the use of SGC in two systemic eosinophilic diseases: Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with PolyAngiitis (EGPA) and HyperEosinophilic Syndrome (HES); and in two single-organ (respiratory) eosinophilic diseases: Chronic RhinoSinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) and Severe Asthma with Eosinophil Phenotype (SA-EP), and contrasted it with their experience in clinical practice. Using nominal group technique, they reached consensus on key aspects related to the dose and tapering of SGC as well as on the initiation of biologics as SGC-sparing agents. Early treatment with biologics could help prevent AEs associated with medium and long-term use of SGC.
Immunogenicity, safety and consistency of seven lots of an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine in healthy children and adolescents: a randomized, double-blind, controlled, phase IV clinical trial
Authors: Hu Weijun , Liu Xiaoyu , Lu Xi , Zhang Dan , Liu Shuo , Gu Xianjin , Liu Dan , Sun Jianwen , Zhou Tiantian , Li Xinge , Gao Yongjun , Zhao Yanwei , Cui Guoliang , Zhang Shaobai
Published: January 2024

Background

CoronaVac has been authorized worldwide for preventing coronavirus disease 2019. Information on the safety, immunogenicity and consistency of different lots and workshops of CoronaVac is presented here.

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, phase IV clinical trial in healthy children and adolescents aged 3-17 years, we aimed to assess the lot-to-lot and workshop-to-workshop consistency, as well as immunogenicity and safety of seven lots of commercial-scale CoronaVac from three workshops. Eligible participants were enrolled into three age cohorts (3-5, 6-11 and 12-17 years). Within each cohort, participants were randomly assigned to seven groups to receive two doses of CoronaVac, with four weeks apart. Serum samples were collected before the first dose and 28 days after the second dose for neutralizing antibody testing. The primary objective was to evaluate the consistency of immune response among different lots within workshop 2 or 3, as well as among different workshops. The primary endpoint was geometric mean titer (GMT) of neutralizing antibody at 28 days after full-course vaccination.

Results

Between July 27th and November 19th, 2021, a total of 2,520 eligible participants were enrolled. Results showed that 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of GMT ratios for all comparative groups among different lots or workshops were within the equivalence criteria of [0.67, 1.5]. The GMT and seroconversion rate for all participants were 126.42 (95%CI: 121.82, 131.19) and 99.86% (95%CI: 99.59%, 99.97%) at 28 days after two-dose vaccination. The incidences of adverse reactions were similar among seven lots, and most adverse reactions were mild in Grade 1, with no serious adverse event.

Conclusion

CoronaVac is well-tolerated and can elicit a good immune response among children and adolescents. Lot-to-lot consistency results indicate stable manufacturing of commercial-scale CoronaVac.
Multi-scale dense spatially-adaptive residual distillation network for lightweight underwater image super-resolution
Authors: Liu Bingzan , Ning Xin , Ma Shichao , Yang Yizhen
Published: January 2024

Underwater images are typically of poor quality, lacking texture and edge information, and are blurry and full of artifacts, which restricts the performance of subsequent tasks such as underwater object detection, and path planning for underwater unmanned submersible vehicles (UUVs). Additionally, the limitation of underwater equipment, most existing image enhancement and super-resolution methods cannot be implemented directly. Hence, developing a weightless technique for improving the resolution of submerged images while balancing performance and parameters is vital. In this paper, a multi-scale dense spatially-adaptive residual distillation network (MDSRDN) is proposed aiming at obtaining high-quality (HR) underwater images with odd parameters and fast running time. In particular, a multi-scale dense spatially-adaptive residual distillation module (MDSRD) is developed to facilitate the multi-scale global-to-local feature extraction like a multi-head transformer and enriching spatial attention maps. By introducing a spatial feature transformer layer (SFT layer) and residual spatial-adaptive feature attention (RSFA), an enhancing attention map for spatially-adaptive feature modulation is generated. Furthermore, to maintain the network lightweight enough, blue separable convolution (BS-Conv) and distillation module are applied. Extensive experimental results illustrate the superiority of MDSDRN in underwater image super-resolution reconstruction, which can achieve a great balance between parameters (only 0.32M), multi-adds (only 13G), and performance (26.38 dB on PSNR in USR-248) with the scale of×4.
Clinical and histopathological features of lentigo maligna and lentigo maligna melanoma: a retrospective analysis in Korea
Authors: Park Chanyong , Kim Dong Hyo , Hur Keunyoung , Mun Je-Ho
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Lentigo maligna (LM) and lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM) are rare in Asian countries. The histopathological diagnosis of LM is often challenging, and misdiagnosis is common. Although histopathologic features of LM/LMM are known, statistical analysis of them were scarcely reported. In this study, we aimed to investigate the histopathological characteristics of LM/LMM in Korean patients and identify key histopathological clues distinguishing LM from benign lentigo.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of the clinical and histopathological features of patients diagnosed with LM/LMM at our center between 2011 and 2022. We assessed the histopathological features in each case based on 16 pathological criteria according to previous literature. Pathologically confirmed cases of benign lentigo were analyzed for comparison.

Results

Twenty-one patients (10 with LM and 11 with LMM) were analyzed. Several statistically significant difference existed between the features of LM and benign lentigo (N = 10), including asymmetry of overall structure (p < 0.001), cytologic atypia (p < 0.001), predominant single-cell proliferation (p < 0.001), melanocytic nests (p = 0.033), melanocytes forming rows (p = 0.003), pagetoid spread of melanocytes (p < 0.001), and hair follicle invasion by atypical melanocytes (p < 0.001). Degree of solar elastosis was more severe in group “Age ≥ 60” (p = 0.015), and group “Diameter ≥ 20 mm” (p = 0.043). Presence of elongated rete ridges were less common in the older than 60 age group (p = 0.015) and group “Diameter ≥ 20 mm.” Invasion was associated with mitosis (p = 0.001, OR 49.285), multinucleated cells (p = 0.035, OR 17.769), and degree of lymphocyte infiltration (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

This study investigated the clinical and histopathologic characteristics of LM and LMM in Koreans. Although histopathological diagnosis is challenging, especially in the early stages of LM, our data showed essential histopathological changes in architectural, cytological, and dermal patterns. Considering the potential aggressiveness of LM/LMM, it is essential to recognize its histopathological features and provide timely management.