bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of in-vivo antidepressant, antidiarrheal and ex-vivo thrombolytic activities of methanol extract of Mikania micrantha leaves
Authors: Ali Md Hazrat
Published: July 2024

Mikania micrantha (Asteraceae) has useful properties in the field of medicine. This study is aimed to elucidate the therapeutic potential of crude methanol extract of Mikania micrantha (MEMM) leave, on Swiss mice. The tests for antidepression potential were carried out using the model of both in-vivo forced swimming test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). Again, the anti-diarrheal efficiency was carried out through the castor oil-induced diarrheal model; the clot-lytic property was investigated by thrombus dissolution property. The test samples showed dose_dependent (200 mg/kg BW, 400 mg/kg BW) potentiality in antidepressant, anti-diarrheal and thrombolytic activities. MEMM demonstrated a significant increase in swimming tone and mobility in FST and TST. MEMM 400 (mg/kg; b.w.; p.o.) exhibited a significant reduction of diarrhoea over 4 hours. Besides, MEMM produced promising (400 (mg/kg; b.w.; p.o) 43.76 %) clot lysis activity. The observed results of this scientific investigation revealed the possibility of the suitable use of this plant and whether this plant is useful as a source of alternative medicine and new therapeutics.
IIUC Studies, Vol.-20, Issue-1, June 2023, pp. 87-108
An effective and efficient protocol for propagating large files in Peer-to-Peer systems
Authors: Hoque Md Jiabul
Published: July 2024

Distributed Hash Tables (DHTs) are integral components in peer-to-peer systems, providing storage and lookup services for key-value pairs. While they have proven highly successful in managing and locating replicas of small files (typically under 1 MB), their efficiency in handling larger files diminishes. Factors like sluggish data senders and slow receivers further exacerbate the inefficiencies in peer-to-peer systems, causing delays in the file propagation process. To address these challenges, peer-to-peer systems require more efficient protocols and resources to expedite the handling of relatively large data files. This study introduces a novel, efficient, and effective mechanism to propagate substantial files within DHTs while balancing load and minimizing system overhead. To assess the proposed protocol's effectiveness, we evaluated using the PeerSim simulator. We analyzed two crucial metrics linked to our proposed system: overhead and propagation time. The outcomes of this research demonstrate a significant reduction in propagation time while system overhead remains minimal. Consequently, the proposed protocol can ensure seamless operation in real-world streaming applications.
IIUC Studies, Vol.-20, Issue-1, June 2023, pp. 141-166
Feasibility and Effectivity of Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) in the management of acute empyema thoracis
Authors: Haque A K M Akramul
Published: July 2024

Abstract not available
J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2024; 42: 119-120
Frecuencia de miasis cutánea foruncular por Cuterebra baeri en Alouatta palliata aequatorialis, Parque Nacional Soberanía, Panamá
Authors: Newbold-Bernal Jeami , Arrocha-García Catherine , Torres-Serrano Lineth , Gutiérrez-Pineda Karol , Méndez-Carvajal Pedro
Published: July 2024

Cuterebra baeri es considerado el controlador biológico de las poblaciones del género Alouatta, produciendo miasis cutánea foruncular. Nuestro objetivo fue estudiar la frecuencia de miasis cutánea foruncular por Cuterebra baeri en grupos de mono aullador (Alouatta palliata aequatorialis). Se evaluó la variación de la frecuencia de miasis cutánea foruncular por mes, zona corporal, edad y sexo. Para la búsqueda de los grupos se estableció un transecto lineal sin estimación de distancia a lo largo del Camino del Oleoducto en el Parque Nacional Soberanía, donde se realizaron búsquedas directas en el dosel e indirectas por olor a heces y Azimuth por medio de vocalizaciones. Realizamos 44 Animales Focales (AF), con un tiempo de 440 min de observación. Se contó un total de 123 forúnculos en 36 de 44 animales focales, donde los grupos presentaron una incidencia media de forúnculos de X 2.7±SD 1.5 y una prevalencia de X 73.8±SD 0.3. No se encontró diferencias en la frecuencia de miasis cutánea foruncular por mes (Chi2: 2.4194, gl: 4, p: 0.6591), tampoco por edad (Z: -0.1209, p: 0.9038). Sí se encontró diferencia en la frecuencia de miasis cutánea foruncular por sexo (Z: 2.37604, p: 0.0175) y por zona corporal (Chi2: 108.4187, gl: 7, p:<.0001*). Nuestros resultados apoyan la presencia constante de C. baeri en los grupos de A. p. aequatorialis, confirmando una vez más su papel como controlador biológico de las poblaciones del género Alouatta. Se recomienda la evaluación de variables microclimáticas (temperatura y pluviosidad) para saber su influencia en el desarrollo exitoso de la pupa de C. baeri.
Influencia de la red de apoyo en la salud mental de jóvenes embarazadas
Authors: Cardona Berti Alana , Pino Gaitán Valeria I. , Oviedo Céspedes Diana C.
Published: July 2024

La maternidad implica una serie de cambios biopsicosociales que pueden propiciar la aparición de alteraciones en la salud mental, especialmente cuando el embarazo no es planificado y las madres no cuentan con soporte emocional. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la influencia que tienen las redes de apoyo en la salud mental de adolescentes y adultas jóvenes embarazadas de 18 años a 24 años en Panamá. Este fue un estudio piloto con metodología mixta, descriptivo y transversal. La muestra estuvo compuesta por mujeres jóvenes entre 18 años y 24 años que asistieron a la clínica de la Asociación Panameña para el Planeamiento de la Familia de San Miguelito, Panamá, durante el primer semestre del 2022. Se utilizó la Escala de Autoestima de Rosenberg, el Inventario de Ansiedad de Beck, el Inventario de Depresión de Beck y un cuestionario sociodemográfico. La media de edad de la muestra fue de 22.6 años. El 100% de la muestra aseguró contar con al menos una red de apoyo. El 33.3% obtuvo una autoestima elevada y 88.9% obtuvo niveles bajos de ansiedad y depresión. Se encontraron relaciones significativas entre los resultados de ansiedad y autoestima (p= 0.029), depresión y autoestima (p= 0.041), y ansiedad y depresión (p= 0.007). El análisis cualitativo arrojó que todas las participantes consideraron relevante contar con el apoyo de su pareja y/o familia. Las redes de apoyo ayudan a potenciar el bienestar de las madres jóvenes; a su vez, esto puede servir como factor protector ante la aparición de ansiedad y depresión.
The Influence of Employee Activation on Gender Differences in Job Satisfaction
Authors: Westover Jonathan H. , Andrade Maureen Snow
Published: July 2024

This study explored gender differences in job satisfaction and the role of employee activation determinants. A survey of 566 U.S. workers found partial support for prior findings, with men reporting higher job satisfaction than women. Regression analyses revealed employee activation variables, including engagement, meaning, belongingness, leadership, and career meaning, predicted satisfaction for both genders. However, certain activation aspects were more influential for women, supporting that non-traditional factors increasingly drive satisfaction. The findings reinforce the complex, evolving relationship between gender and satisfaction in today’s workplace. Organizations seeking to enhance satisfaction and performance should focus on cultivating high activation among all employees.
Educação permanente sobre calendário vacinal para agentes comunitários de saúde: Relato de experiência
Authors: Santos Vilma de Nazaré Souza , Alves Fernanda Cristina Rosa , Siqueira Yuri Oliveira , Santos Erlane Ribeiro dos , Antunes Heloana Monteiro , Barros Micheli Mayara Souza , Rodrigues Valéria Pinto
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: Descrever a experiência de acadêmicos de enfermagem acerca da realização de uma educação permanente com Agentes Comunitários de Saúde sobre calendário vacinal. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, com abordagem qualitativa, do tipo relato de experiência, conduzido através de uma educação permanente sobre o calendário vacinal destinada aos Agentes Comunitários de Saúde de Belém do Pará, a atividade educativa foi realizada em fevereiro de 2024, com 30 Agentes Comunitários de Saúde. Resultados e Discussão: Agentes Comunitários de Saúde foram convocados para uma atividade educativa na UMS, na qual foi abordado o calendário vacinal para crianças, adolescentes, gestantes, adultos e idosos. Foram distribuídas carteiras de vacinação da criança para melhor entendimento por parte dos profissionais. Além das doses e idades que devem ser realizadas as vacinas, foi abordado o tempo mínimo e máximo entre cada dose para casos de atrasos. Ao final da atividade foi realizado o preenchimento das carteiras de vacinação no qual foi possível observar o entendimento e esclarecer dúvidas dos Agentes Comunitários de Saúde. Assim, foi enfatizado a importância destes profissionais para acompanhamento, orientação e busca ativa da população acerca da vacinação. Considerações Finais. Conclui-se a partir da experiência que a atividade de educação permanente contribuiu para a capacitação dos ACS sobre calendário vacinal. Além do mais, se faz necessário a constante atualização sobre o assunto para o acompanhamento dos usuários busca ativa e no fornecimento de orientações sobre vacinação para a comunidade.
JIHAD IN THE NAME OF GOD; AN EXAMINATION OF THE WORLD'S RELIGIOUS FUNDAMENTALISM AND RADICALISM MOVEMENTS
Authors: Ridho Hilmi , Sabil Afif
Published: July 2024

The discourse of terrorism, extremism, and fundamentalism movements is not a new issue, but what becomes a public question is why all these actions are always in the name of religion. From various events, the majority of people claim the action was carried out by hardline groups with the face of Islam, such as Al-Qaeda, ISIS, Boko Haram, Abu Sayyaf, and so on. In fact, acts of terror are also carried out by groups with other religious backgrounds, such as the bombings that occurred in Malegaon, Maharashtra, and in Modasa, Gujarat in India on September 29, 2008. The question is, is it true that religions teach their followers to commit violence and justify such acts? What are the factors behind the emergence of religious violence? This research aims to examine religious sects from all religions in the world that often commit violence in the name of religion. In addition, it also wants to know the history of the emergence and movement of fundamentalist sects that become a forum for religious radicalism.
REALIZING ENVIRONMENTAL-ORIENTED ISLAMIC EDUCATION BASED ON THE VALUES IN THE QUR’AN
Authors: Mayasari Annisa
Published: July 2024

The environment and humans are two inseparable things, both are interconnected and influence each other. The environment as a unitary space with all objects, power, circumstances, and living things, has organized life for humans and provided all the necessities of life. Meanwhile, humans as leaders on earth (khalifah fil ardh) have a role to maintain and preserve the surrounding environment. However, human attitudes and behavior often cause environmental damage and natural disasters. Human greed to exploit nature has caused various environmental problems on earth. The presence of Islam through the Qur'an helps humans to carry out their duties in maintaining environmental sustainability and harmony and also solving any existing problems. Through the Qur'an, Allah SWT. has provided spiritual information to humans to be friendly and care for the environment. The content of values ​​​​in the Qur'an about the environment can be a guide for realizing Islamic education with an environmental perspective. Environmental education is an effort towards a balanced life between humans and their environment, which is characterized by cultivating a livable and sustainable ecosystem. This research focuses on the study of the efforts to realize environmentally Islamic education based on the values ​​​​in the Qur'an. The method used in this research is library research. From the results of this study, it was obtained a study of environmental Islamic education and its values, the environment in the view of the Qur'an, as well as steps to realize environmental Islamic education.
ANALISIS KONSEP EFISIENSI EKONOMI DALAM ISLAM: KAJIAN TERHADAP QS. AL-ISRA AYAT 26-29
Authors: Fauzia Ulirrahmi
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini mengulas konsep efisiensi ekonomi dalam perspektif Islam, dengan fokus pada ayat-ayat QS. Al-Isra ayat 26-29. Efisiensi ekonomi dalam Islam dianalisis melalui pedoman dan prinsip-prinsip etis yang terkandung dalam ayat-ayat tersebut. Temuan penelitian ini mengindikasikan bahwa Islam menekankan pentingnya pengelolaan sumber daya yang bijaksana, distribusi kekayaan yang adil, etika dalam bertransaksi, dan keseimbangan dalam penggunaan harta. Efisiensi ekonomi dalam Islam juga memperhatikan keadilan sosial, moralitas, dan nilai-nilai moral sehingga tidak hanya terfokus pada profitabilitas semata. Secara keseluruhan, ayat-ayat dalam QS. Al-Isra ayat 26-29 memberikan panduan tentang  konsep efisiensi ekonomi dalam Islam yaitu mencakup distribusi yang adil, penghindaran pemborosan, penekanan pada etika dalam transaksi ekonomi, dan keseimbangan dalam mengalokasikan sumber daya. Prinsip-prinsip ini dapat membantu masyarakat dapat mencapai efisiensi ekonomi yang berkelanjutan dengan tetap mempertimbangkan nilai-nilai moral dan sosial.
ANALISIS HUKUM PENGGUNAAN PEWARNA KARMIN (TELAAH ATAS FATWA MUI DAN LAJNAH BAHTSUL MASA’IL NU)
Authors: Lintang Ramadhani  , Rofianti Anggraini  , Rahmad Agus Hartanto  , Riavita Maghfiroh  , Muhammad Asrori
Published: July 2024

Carmine coloring is a type of food coloring that is used to increase the attractiveness of food. This dye produces red and its derivatives. Apart from being used in food, this dye is also often found in beauty products. However, this carmine dye has sparked controversy among Muslims, this controversy is motivated by differences of opinion in determining the law on its use. Among them are legal contradictions issued by Majelis Ulama Indonesia and Lajnah Bahtsul Masa'il Nahdlatul Ulama. Therefore, this research is here to discuss several main things, first is to find out the legal procedures between Majelis Ulama Indonesia and Lajnah Bahtsul Masa'il Nahdlatul Ulama, second is to find out the legal product for the use of carmine dye from Majelis Ulama Indonesia and Lajnah Bahtsul Masa 'il Nahdlatul Ulama. This research uses qualitative research methods with pure library research as the data source. As a result, the law for using carmine dye according to Majelis Ulama Indonesia is halal, in contrast to the Lajnah Bahtsul Masa'il Nahdlatul Ulama which stipulates that the use of this dye is haram.
Eksplorasi Dan Pengujian Tumbuhan Obat Masyarakat Kecamatan Merawang Sebagai Peningkat Imun Dan Makanan
Authors: Irwanto Riko , Juwita Agustara Dwi , Pratiwi Luffi , Lestari Fifi
Published: July 2024

This study aims to determine the types and parts of herbal medicinal plants used as immune boosters and food by the people of Merawang District and to determine the content of chemical compounds in medicinal plants used as immune enhancers and food by the people of Merawang District. This research was conducted in September-November 2021. Samples were obtained from 5 villages (Balunijuk village, Pagarawan village, Jada Bahrin village, Jurung village, and Kimak village) in Merawang District, Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands Province. The results showed that medicinal plants found in 5 villages in Merawang sub-district (Balunijuk village, Pagarawan village, Jada Bahrin village, Jurung village, and Kimak village) contained 6 types of plants and their family names Akar Medang Sahang (Lauraceae), Pepper (Piperaceae), Coriander roots, Kecapa stems (Asteraceae), Pandan roots & Belacan stems (Pandanaceae & Verbenaceae) have the potential to cure various diseases, one of which is overcoming problems with ulcers, stomach acid, jaundice, and impotence. Parts of the plant used start from the roots, stems, to leaves. The results of the TLC method showed that each extract contained active secondary metabolites, namely alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids.
Revitalisasi manajemen badan usaha milik desa (BUMDes)
Authors: Ketmoen Adrianus , Leki Salomon , Lawalu Emiliana Martuti , Indrawati Agnes Susanti , Pongge Maria Imaculata , Lado Ferida Agata Kale
Published: July 2024

Dalam undang-undang desa, pengertian BUMDes adalah badan usaha yang seluruh bagian besar modalnya dimiliki oleh desa melalui penyertaan secara langsung yang berasal dari kekayaan desa yang terpisahkan guna mengelola asset, jasa pelayanan dan usaha lainnya untuk sebesar-besarnya kesejahteraan masyarakat desa. Revitalisasi adalah upaya untuk mendaur ulang (Recycle) dengan tujuan untuk memvitalkan kembali fungsi utama dengan kata lain mengembalikan pada vitalitas fungsi utamanya yang telah pudar. Tujuan dari terlaksananya kegiatan ini yakni dilakukannya revitalisasi manajemen BUMDes Kotiom Desa Tunoe dikarenakan keadaannya saat ini yang sedang “mati suri” berdasarkan wawancara awal dengan Kepala Desa Tunoe. Kegiatan pengabdian kepada Masyarakat ini terlaksana dengan metode ceramah dan pendampingan berkelanjutan. Metode yang digunakan dalam kegiatan ini adalah outreach methods sehingga terjadi kontak langsung dengan Masyarakat dalam hal ini manajemen pengelola BUMDes Kutiom. Rencana tindak lanjud kegiatan ini yakni dengan melakukan proses pendampingan dilakukan secara langsung maupun memanfaatkan teknologi system informasi yang tersedia dengan membuat WA Group sehingga manfaat kegiatan bukan hanya bersifat pendampingan, tetapi sampai eksekusi lapangan berupa perubahan manajemen BUMDes, perumusan model usaha, dan pemetaan potensi lokal yang dapat dimanfaatkan. Selain itu, BUMDes Kutiom dan Desa Tunoe dijadikan desa binaan sehingga pendampingan dan pembinaan terjadwal. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi kegiatan diketahui bahwa terdapat peningkatan pemahaman aparatur desa maupun manajemen pengelola BUMDes tentang fungsi, peran, dan manfaat keberadaan BUMDes. Hasil revitalisasi dirumuskan manajemen pengelola BUMDes yang baru dengan pemahaman dan praktek pemanfaatan potensi lokal desa yang pemanfaatannya menjadi kekuatan bagi perkembangan BUMDes.
THE WELFARE STATE: GENESIS, EVOLUTION OF CONTENT, INDICATORS
Authors: BELOKONEV S.YU. ,   Institute of Global Researcher of the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, KHOKONOV A.A. , FILONENKO M.A. ,   State University of Management,   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: July 2024

The article analyzes the main prerequisites and stages of the formation of the welfare state. The issues of interrelation of the functions of the state and its social purpose are considered, the importance of social policy for the stable development of society and the state is determined. A number of parameters and indicators of the functioning and effectiveness of the modern welfare state have been identified. It is proved that the list of such indicators should change in accordance with changes in the direction and content of social processes, an objective expansion of the range of goods consumed by modern man. The conclusion is made about the need to include in the functionality of the welfare state the function of creating conditions for self-organization of citizens to solve individual problems, the actualization of which the state is not able to respond in time and adequately.
HERANÇA CULTURAL NOS TRAÇOS DA PAISAGEM NO DISTRITO DE GONÇALVES JUNIOR - MUNICIPIO DE IRATI – PR
Authors: SÁ Marta , MASSOQUIM Nair
Published: July 2024

As paisagens culturais são na maioria das vezes analisadas a partir dos valores históricos culturais, a partir dos traços que determinada sociedade ainda guarda e, são expressados por meio dos hábitos e costumes que as comunidades conservam. Nesse contexto enfatiza-se o distrito de Gonçalves Junior, localizado no município de Irati, precisamente na Mesorregião Geográfica do Sudeste do Paraná (MSR-9, IBGE, 2010). A pesquisa tem como objeto de estudo, os traços culturais na paisagem, e por objetivo compreender os valores nas heranças culturais dos descendentes de imigrantes europeus e observar como as práticas se integram nas relações culturais e na dinâmica da paisagem da referida comunidade. A região é formada pela mescla de diferentes grupos étnicos que por ocasião da colonização formaram suas colônias, essas podem ser interpretadas por meio dos traços representados na paisagem. Neste sentido, foi necessário elaborar um estudo teórico e prático (in loco) para entender a relação dos diferentes grupos culturais que vivem na comunidade.
O USO E COBERTURA DA TERRA E O DESENVOLVIMENTO DE PROCESSOS EROSIVOS EM ÁREA PERIURBANA
Authors: Silva Valquiria Brilhador da , Fortes Edison
Published: July 2024

Este trabalho teve por objetivo analisar o uso e cobertura da terra e sua contribuição para o desenvolvimento de processos erosivos em área rural e periurbana, no município de Luiziana – Paraná. Foram elaborados mapas de uso e cobertura da terra para os anos de 1980 e 2019, e investigação de campo. Os dados foram integrados em Sistema de Informação Geográficas o que permitiu a sobreposição de informações e estabelecer relações entre usos e processos. Os resultados indicam o desencadeamento de processos erosivos como resultante de mudanças no uso e cobertura da terra, tanto na área rural como na área urbana, sendo que na área urbana/periurbana o processo acelerado está relacionado a impermeabilização do solo e ao sistema de drenagem urbana.
The frozen elephant trunk technique in acute aortic dissection: the ultimate solution? An institutional experience
Authors: Wisniewski K. , Dell’Aquila A. M. , Motekallemi A. , Oberhuber A. , Schäfers J. F. , Marchiori E. , Weber R. , Martens S. , Rukosujew A.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Acute aortic dissection remains a serious emergency in the field of cardiovascular medicine and a challenge for cardiothoracic surgeons. In the present study, we seek to compare the outcomes of different surgical techniques in the repair of type A acute aortic dissection.

Methods

Between April 2015 and May 2023, 213 patients (82 women, aged: 63.9 ± 13.3 years) with acute aortic dissection (205 type A and 8 non-A-non-B dissections) underwent surgical treatment in our department. A total of 45 patients were treated with the frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique supported by the Thoraflex™ Hybrid prosthesis, 33 received total aortic arch replacement (TAR)—standard or conventional elephant trunk—treatment, and 135 were treated with hemiarch replacement (HR). Aortic arch surgery was performed in most patients under moderate hypothermic (28°C on average) circulatory arrest, with selective antegrade cerebral perfusion through the right axillary artery.

Results

The rates of early mortality were 17.8% (38 perioperative deaths) in the whole population, 8.9% in the FET group of patients, and 33% and 17% in the TAR and HR group of patients, respectively (P-value 0.025). The rate of spinal cord injury was 2.3% (five patients), and a paresis of recurrent laryngeal occurred in 3.7% of patients (seven patients, four were treated with FET). Permanent neurological dysfunction occurred in 27 patients (12.7%). After a mean follow-up of 3 years, the rate of mid-term mortality of discharged patients was 19.4% (34 deaths: 7 FET, 4 TAR, and 23 HR) and the overall mortality rate was 33.8% [72 deaths: 11 FET (24.4%); 15 TAR (45.4%); 46 HR (34.1%)]. A total of 8 patients (17.8%) in whom FET was applied received additional endovascular treatment in the descending aorta.

Conclusions

In our institutional experience, we found that the frozen elephant trunk technique with a high-end Thoraflex Hybrid prosthesis proved its surgical suitability in the treatment of acute aortic dissection with favorable outcomes. The FET technique and our perioperative management led to comparable neurological outcomes and reduced mortality rates in these emergency cases.
Left ventricular unloading with gentle chest compressions for patients on veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: two case reports
Authors: Jiang Lingyu , Huang Minyan , Xiang Shulin , Xiong Bin , Li Guibin , Zhong Yonglong , Han Lin
Published: July 2024

Background

Insufficient ventricular unloading is a serious complication during veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) that has a crucial impact on patient outcomes. The existing conservative treatment options are limited, while mechanical decompression techniques are challenging and restricted in terms of their adoption and application. Two patients with cardiogenic shock experienced insufficient left ventricular unloading with no pulsatile contraction and aortic valve closure during VA-ECMO support. Gentle chest compression was applied to establish an active left ventricular drainage mechanism, which prevented the formation of intracardiac thrombi. No life-threatening complications or technical problems occurred. Therefore, gentle chest compression was established as an effective and safe method for treating insufficient left ventricular unloading in VA-ECMO patients.
Examining grid-forming inverters for power restoration using power-hardware in-the-loop and Digital Twins approaches with Real-time Digital Simulation
Authors: Chow Jason Man Hin , Li Ben Kai Yiu
Published: July 2024

The current pursuit of ambitious decarbonization targets is driving a swift transformation of the power grid, marked by a surge in the production of renewable energy. The expansion on application of renewable energy hinges significantly on Distributed Energy Resources but system operators are grappling with challenges due to the opaque nature of DER operations. This opacity introduces considerable risks to grid stability, as the burgeoning volume of DERs may surpass the existing power network’s capacity. In response, the advent of Digital Twins (DT) technology offers a viable remedy by creating virtual counterparts of the physical grid infrastructure that necessitate transmitting minimal data. Digital Twins technology circumvents the hindrances associated with real-time data flows and bolsters the transparency of the system. To foster widespread implementation of DT within the sector, it is imperative to cultivate and validate its application through practical trials. To this end, Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) experiments are employed to juxtapose the efficacy of actual power components against that of the DT models. The experiments involve connecting Grid-forming Inverter to a Real-time Digital Simulator (RTDS) for PHIL and DT testing, allowing for an in-depth analysis of the behaviour of photovoltaic inverter. This paper elucidates a platform engineered for immediate simulation tailored to DT and PHIL approaches. This platform is designed to prototype, exhibit, and evaluate grid-forming inverters under different scenarios that are critical for power restoration. With the help of simulation exchange, Perez Model is recommended to add in the DT model to increase the accuracy comparing with the PHIL model. The entire restoration process can therefore be comprehensively represented and analysed.
The longitudinal characterization of immune responses in COVID-19 patients reveals novel prognostic signatures for disease severity, patients’ survival and long COVID
Authors: Noviello Maddalena , De Lorenzo Rebecca , Chimienti Raniero , Maugeri Norma , De Lalla Claudia , Siracusano Gabriel , Lorè Nicola Ivan , Rancoita Paola Maria Vittoria , Cugnata Federica , Tassi Elena , Dispinseri Stefania , Abbati Danilo , Beretta Valeria , Ruggiero Eliana , Manfredi Francesco , Merolla Aurora , Cantarelli Elisa , Tresoldi Cristina , Pastori Claudia , Caccia Roberta , Sironi Francesca , Marzinotto Ilaria , Saliu Fabio , Ghezzi Silvia , Lampasona Vito , Vicenzi Elisa , Cinque Paola , Manfredi Angelo Andrea , Scarlatti Gabriella , Dellabona Paolo , Lopalco Lucia , Di Serio Clelia , Malnati Mauro , Ciceri Fabio , Rovere-Querini Patrizia , Bonini Chiara
Published: July 2024

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 pandemic still poses a significant burden on global health and economy, especially for symptoms persisting beyond the acute disease. COVID-19 manifests with various degrees of severity and the identification of early biomarkers capable of stratifying patient based on risk of progression could allow tailored treatments.

Methods

We longitudinally analyzed 67 patients, classified according to a WHO ordinal scale as having Mild, Moderate, or Severe COVID-19. Peripheral blood samples were prospectively collected at hospital admission and during a 6-month follow-up after discharge. Several subsets and markers of the innate and adaptive immunity were monitored as putative factors associated with COVID-19 symptoms.

Results

More than 50 immunological parameters were associated with disease severity. A decision tree including the main clinical, laboratory, and biological variables at admission identified low NK-cell precursors and CD14+CD91+ monocytes, and high CD8+ Effector Memory T cell frequencies as the most robust immunological correlates of COVID-19 severity and reduced survival. Moreover, low regulatory B-cell frequency at one month was associated with the susceptibility to develop long COVID at six months, likely due to their immunomodulatory ability.

Discussion

These results highlight the profound perturbation of the immune response during COVID-19. The evaluation of specific innate and adaptive immune-cell subsets allows to distinguish between different acute and persistent COVID-19 symptoms.
Inhibition of B cell receptor signaling induced by the human adenovirus species D E3/49K protein
Authors: Hildenbrand Andreas , Cramer Precious , Bertolotti Milena , Kaiser Nathalie Sophia , Kläsener Kathrin , Nickel Clara Muriel , Reth Michael , Heim Albert , Hengel Hartmut , Burgert Hans-Gerhard , Ruzsics Zsolt
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The early transcription unit 3 (E3) of human adenoviruses (HAdVs) encodes several immunoevasins, including the E3/49K protein, which is unique for species D of HAdVs. It is expressed as surface transmembrane protein and shed. E3/49K of HAdV-D64 binds to the protein tyrosine phosphatase surface receptor CD45, thereby modulating activation of T and NK cells.

Methods

Considering that E3/49K represents the most polymorphic viral protein among species D HAdVs, we demonstrate here that all tested E3/49K orthologs bind to the immunologically important regulator CD45. Thus, this feature is conserved regardless of the pathological associations of the respective HAdV types.

Results

It appeared that modulation of CD45 is a unique property restricted to HAdVs of species D. Moreover, E3/49K treatment inhibited B cell receptor (BCR) signaling and impaired BCR signal phenotypes. The latter were highly comparable to B cells having defects in the expression of CD45, suggesting E3/49K as a potential tool to investigate CD45 specific functions.

Conclusion

We identified B cells as new direct target of E3/49K-mediated immune modulation, representing a novel viral immunosubversive mechanism.
Factor H-related protein 1 in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Kleer Jessica S. , Klehr Juliane , Dubler Denise , Infanti Laura , Chizzolini Carlo , Huynh-Do Uyen , Ribi Camillo , Trendelenburg Marten
Published: July 2024

Background

Factor H (FH) is a major soluble inhibitor of the complement system and part of a family comprising five related proteins (FHRs 1–5). Deficiency of FHR1 was described to be linked to an elevated risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). As FHR1 can partially antagonize the functionality of FH, an altered FHR1/FH ratio could not only enhance SLE vulnerability but also affect the disease expression. This study focuses on the analysis of FH and FHR1 at a protein level, and the occurrence of anti-FH autoantibodies (anti-FH) in a large cohort of SLE patients to explore their association with disease activity and/or expression.

Methods

We assessed FH and FHR1 levels in plasma from 378 SLE patients compared to 84 healthy controls (normal human plasma, NHP), and sera from another cohort of 84 healthy individuals (normal human serum, NHS), using RayBio® CFH and CFHR1 ELISA kits. Patients were recruited by the Swiss SLE Cohort Study (SSCS). Unmeasurable FHR1 levels were all confirmed by Western blot, and in a subgroup of patients by PCR. Anti-FH were measured in SLE patients with non-detectable FHR1 levels and matched control patients using Abnova’s CFH IgG ELISA kit.

Results

Overall, FH and FHR1 levels were significantly higher in healthy controls, but there was no significant difference in FHR1/FH ratios between SLE patients and NHPs. However, SLE patients showed a significantly higher prevalence of undetectable FHR1 compared to all healthy controls (35/378 SLE patients versus 6/168 healthy controls; p= 0.0214, OR=2.751, 95% CI = 1.115 – 8.164), with a consistent trend across all ethnic subgroups. Levels of FH and FHR1, FHR1/FH ratios and absence of FHR1 were not consistently associated with disease activity and/or specific disease manifestations, but absence of FHR1 (primarily equivalent to CFHR1 deficiency) was linked to the presence of anti-FH in SLE patients (p=0.039).

Conclusions

Deficiency of FHR1 is associated with a markedly elevated risk of developing SLE. A small proportion of FHR1-deficient SLE patients was found to have autoantibodies against FH but did not show clinical signs of microangiopathy.
Cereblon deficiency ameliorates carbon tetrachloride-induced acute hepatotoxicity in HepG2 cells by suppressing MAPK-mediated apoptosis
Authors: Choi Seo Young , Song Parkyong , Hwang Ji Sun , Lee You Kyeong , Shin Mi Song , Son Hong-Joo , Kim Yu-Jin , Kim Wanil , Lee Kwang Min
Published: July 2024

The liver is vulnerable to various hepatotoxins, including carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), which induces oxidative stress and apoptosis by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Cereblon (CRBN), a multifunctional protein implicated in various cellular processes, functions in the pathogenesis of various diseases; however, its function in liver injury remains unknown. We established a CRBN-knockout (KO) HepG2 cell line and examined its effect on CCl4-induced hepatocellular damage. CRBN-KO cells exhibited reduced sensitivity to CCl4-induced cytotoxicity, as evidenced by decreased levels of apoptosis markers, such as cleaved caspase-3, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities. CRBN deficiency enhanced antioxidant defense, with increased superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione ratios (GSH/GSSG), as well as reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. Mechanistically, the protective effects of CRBN deficiency appeared to involve the attenuation of the MAPK-mediated pathways, particularly through decreased phosphorylation of JNK and ERK. Overall, these results suggest the crucial role of CRBN in mediating the hepatocellular response to oxidative stress and inflammation triggered by CCl4 exposure, offering potential clinical implications for liver injury in a wide range of liver diseases.
Preparation and mechanism research on hydrophobic coupling modification of HTV silicone rubber
Authors: Li Qiang , Lei Mingdong , Li Ziyou , Gan Qiang , Sun Yong , Wei Xiaoxing
Published: July 2024

Neat high-temperature vulcanized silicone rubber (HTV SR) showed bad hydrophobicity due to the existence of a large number of inorganic reinforcing fillers on its surface, which affected its security application in outdoor insulation systems. In this work, hydrophobic silane chains were grafted onto the surface of inorganic particles on the skin layer of HTV SR by a one-step coupling modification to improve its hydrophobicity. The effects of coupling agent types and coupling reaction conditions on the hydrophobicity of HTV SR were investigated. It was determined that the perfluorooctane trichlorosilicon with a large number of low surface energy fluorine atoms was the preferred coupling agent. The contact angle of HTV SR was increased by 15.70% when the optimal coupling reaction conditions were determined to be a reaction temperature of 60°C, a reaction time of 4 h, and an amount of coupling agent of 0.5%. The study found that both etching reaction and grafting reaction occurred during the whole coupling modification process, which led to the disappearance or decrease of a lot of holes on the HTV SR surface. After the fluorination coupling reaction, the surface of HTV SR became smooth and dense that led to the decrease of water absorption. The result of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed the formation of C-F bond in HTV SR after fluorination modification, and the energetic dispersive spectroscopy analysis showed that the fluorine content on the surface of the fluorinated HTV SR increased significantly. Moreover, the stability analysis showed that the fluorinated HTV SR still had a good thermal stability and mechanical property stability.
Efficacy and safety of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for upper limb tendonitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Xiong Yongqing , Wen Tianshan , Jin Songzhi , Lin Ling , Shao Qianer , Peng Yue , Zheng Qining , Li Wei
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study synthesized the highest level of evidence to analyse the effectiveness and safety of using extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) to treat upper limb tendonitis, which was unknown.

Design

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Medline, and the Cochrane Library.

Methods

Two researchers performed the screening, data extraction, literature quality assessment, and heterogeneity analysis of the searched RCTs.

Results

The main types of morbidity included rotator cuff tendonitis, lateral epicondylitis, finger tendonitis, and long bicipital tendonitis. The results of the meta-analysis showed that ESWT was effective in relieving pain in all four types of tendonitis. In addition, ESWT was more effective in relieving pain in patients with upper limb tendonitis than placebo at the 3- and 6-month follow-ups, especially with radial ESWT (RESWT). Data analysis of the forest plot showed that the experimental group with ESWT as an intervention had a significant improvement in function in patients with rotator cuff tendonitis at the 3-month follow-up. However, subgroup analysis showed that low-energy ESWT was effective in improving function in patients with calcified and non-calcified rotator cuff tendonitis, whereas it was not effective in relieving pain.

Conclusion

ESWT can effectively improve the functional activity in patients with rotator cuff tendonitis and may produce positive analgesic effects in patients with upper limb tendonitis. The incidence of adverse effects is low.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023403594, identifier: PROSPERO, CRD42023403594.
Vascular ultrasound as a follow-up tool in patients with giant cell arteritis: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Haaversen Anne C. B. , Brekke Lene Kristin , Kermani Tanaz A. , Molberg Øyvind , Diamantopoulos Andreas P.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To evaluate relapses in giant cell arteritis (GCA), investigate the utility of vascular ultrasound to detect relapses, and develop and assess a composite score for GCA disease activity (GCAS) based on clinical symptoms, ultrasound imaging activity, and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Methods

Patients with GCA were prospectively followed with scheduled visits, including assessment for clinical relapse, protocol ultrasound examination, and CRP. At each visit, patients were defined as having ultrasound remission or relapse. GCAS was calculated at every visit.

Results

The study included 132 patients, with a median follow-up time of 25 months [interquartile range (IR) 21]. The clinical relapse rate was 60.6%. There were no differences in relapse rates between GCA subtypes (cranial-GCA, large vessel (LV)-GCA, and mixed-GCA) (p = 0.83). Ultrasound yielded a sensitivity of 61.2% and a specificity of 72.3% for diagnosing GCA- relapse in our cohort. In 7.7% of follow-up visits with clinical relapses, neither high CRP nor findings of ultrasound relapse were registered. In comparison, in 10.3% of follow-up visits without symptoms of clinical relapse, there were both a high CRP and findings of ultrasound relapse.

Conclusion

We found moderate sensitivity and specificity for ultrasound as a monitoring tool for relapse in this prospective cohort of GCA patients. The extent or subtype of vasculitis at the diagnosis did not influence the number of relapses. Based on a combination of clinical symptoms, elevated CRP, and ultrasound findings, a composite score for GCA activity is proposed.
A bibliometric analysis of light chain amyloidosis from 2005 to 2024: research trends and hot spots
Authors: Liu Xiangdong , Wang Junyan , Li Yingmin , Shi Weibo , Zhang Xiaojing , Li Shujin , Cong Bin
Published: July 2024

Background

Light chain (AL) amyloidosis stands as the most prevalent subtype of systemic amyloidosis, encompassing a group of rare diseases. Here, we evaluated the scientific landscape of AL amyloidosis to investigate research trends and identify hotspots within the field.

Methods

Relevant studies on AL amyloidosis published over the past two decades were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. The publications between 2005 and 2024 were subjected to bibliometric analyses, leveraging tools including CiteSpace, VOSviewer, RStudio and MS Excel to analyse and visualize the annual publication trend, co-occurrence patterns, collaborative networks among countries, organizations, and authors. Burst keywords and references were also examined to obtain the research history, and emerging hotspots.

Results

The bibliometric analysis included 2,864 articles published between 2005 and 2024. The most productive journal is Amyloid-Journal of Protein Folding Disorders. The United States, along with several developed nations, emerges as a dominant force in international AL amyloidosis research. “AL amyloidosis” and “cardiac amyloidosis” were the primary hotspots over the past two decades, and “Biomarkers,” “Cardiac amyloidosis,” and “treatment” would be future trends.

Conclusion

This bibliometric analysis examined the research developments in AL amyloidosis over the past two decades using bibliometric software. Recent research in this field primarily focuses on two main areas: clinical diagnosis and treatment of AL amyloidosis, as well as cardiac amyloidosis. Emphasis is placed on understanding the mechanisms underlying immunoglobulin light chain aggregation and deposition to mitigate organ involvement.
Shifts in the gut microbiota of sea urchin Diadema antillarum associated with the 2022 disease outbreak
Authors: Ruiz-Barrionuevo Juliana M. , Kardas Elif , Rodríguez-Barreras Ruber , Quiñones-Otero Marcos A. , Ruiz-Diaz Claudia P. , Toledo-Hernández Carlos , Godoy-Vitorino Filipa
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In recent decades, Caribbean coral reefs have lost many vital marine species due to diseases. The well-documented mass mortality event of the long-spined black sea urchin Diadema antillarum in the early 1980s stands out among these collapses. This die-off killed over 90% of D. antillarum changing the reefscape from coral to algal-dominated. Nearly 40 years later, D. antillarum populations have yet to recover. In early 2022, a new mortality event of D. antillarum was reported along the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico.

Methods

This study identifies the gut microbiota changes associated with the D. antillarum during this mortality event. It contrasts them with the bacterial composition of gut samples from healthy individuals collected in 2019 by using 16S rRNA sequencing analyses.

Results

Notably, the die-off group’s core microbiome resembled bacteria commonly found in the human skin and gut, suggesting potential anthropogenic contamination and wastewater pollution as contributing factors to the 2022 dysbiosis. The animals collected in 2022, especially those with signs of disease, lacked keystone taxa normally found in Diadema including Photobacterium and Propionigenium.

Discussion

The association between human microbes and disease stages in the long-spined urchin D. antillarum, especially in relation to anthropogenic contamination, highlights a complex interplay between environmental stressors and marine health. While these microbes might not be the direct cause of death in this species of sea urchins, their presence and proliferation can indicate underlying issues, such as immune depletion due to pollution, habitat destruction, or climate change, that ultimately compromise the health of these marine organisms.
Understanding the sources, function, and irreplaceable role of cobamides in organohalide-respiring bacteria
Authors: Lu Yongfeng , Lu Fancheng , Zhang Jian , Tang Qianwei , Yang Dan , Liu Yaqing
Published: July 2024

Halogenated organic compounds are persistent pollutants that pose a serious threat to human health and the safety of ecosystems. Cobamides are essential cofactors for reductive dehalogenases (RDase) in organohalide-respiring bacteria (OHRB), which catalyze the dehalogenation process. This review systematically summarizes the impact of cobamides on organohalide respiration. The catalytic processes of cobamide in dehalogenation processes are also discussed. Additionally, we examine OHRB, which cannot synthesize cobamide and must obtain it from the environment through a salvage pathway; the co-culture with cobamide producer is more beneficial and possible. This review aims to help readers better understand the importance and function of cobamides in reductive dehalogenation. The presented information can aid in the development of bioremediation strategies.
Exploring the influence of deposit mineral composition on biofilm communities in oil and gas systems
Authors: Diaz-Mateus Maria A. , Salgar-Chaparro Silvia J. , Tarazona Johanna , Farhat Hanan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Inside oil and gas pipelines, native microbial communities and different solid compounds typically coexist and form mixed deposits. However, interactions between these deposits (primarily consisting of mineral phases) and microorganisms in oil and gas systems remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the influence of magnetite (Fe3O4), troilite (FeS), and silica (SiO2) on the microbial diversity, cell viability, biofilm formation, and EPS composition of an oil-recovered multispecies consortium.

Methods

An oilfield-recovered microbial consortium was grown for 2 weeks in separate bioreactors, each containing 10 g of commercially available magnetite (Fe3O4), troilite (FeS), or silica (SiO2) at 40°C ± 1°C under a gas atmosphere of 20% CO2/80% N2.

Results

The microbial population formed in troilite significantly differed from those in silica and magnetite, which exhibited significant similarities. The dominant taxa in troilite was the Dethiosulfovibrio genus, whereas Sulfurospirillum dominated in magnetite and silica. Nevertheless, biofilm formation was lowest on troilite and highest on silica, correlating with the observed cell viability.

Discussion

The dissolution of troilite followed by the liberation of HS− (H2S) and Fe2+ into the test solution, along with its larger particle size compared to silica, likely contributed to the observed results. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that the EPS of the biofilm formed in silica was dominated by eDNA, while those in troilite and magnetite primarily contained polysaccharides. Although the mechanisms of this phenomenon could not be determined, these findings are anticipated to be particularly valuable for enhancing MIC mitigation strategies currently used in oil and gas systems.