bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studi Diagenesis Batugamping Formasi Meluhu Daerah Toronipa, Kecamatan Soropia, Kabupaten Konawe, Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara
Authors: Hasria Hasria , Jalil Abdul , Masri Masri , Okto Ali , Bahdad Bahdad , Septiana Sara
Published: June 2024

Daerah penelitian secara administratif terletak pada Daerah Toronipa Kecamatan Soropia Kabupaten Konawe Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menentukan jenis batugamping, proses diagenesis dan lingkungan diagenesis batugamping pada Formasi Meluhu. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu metode petrografi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa, jenis batugamping di daerah penelitian adalah batugamping wackestone dan packstone yang telah mengalami proses diagenesis berupa sementasi, mikritisasi mikrobial, neomorfisme, dan pelarutan. Lingkungan diagenesis batugamping pada Formasi Meluhu berasal dari lingkungan diagenesis marine phreatic, meteoric phereatic, dan meteoric vadose.
 
Kata kunci: Batugamping, proses diagenesis, lingkungan diagenesis, Formasi Meluhu, Toronipa
Analisis Kualitas Batubara Bonto Matinggi Sulawesi Selatan Untuk Kebutuhan Industri Semen
Authors: Bakri Suriyanto , Riswandi Imam , Anshariah Anshariah , Harwan Harwan
Published: June 2024

Coal in Indonesia is widely used for both export and domestic industrial needs. Domestically, it is widely used for the textile industry, power plants, and the cement industry.  Coal consumption for the cement industry in Indonesia in 2022 is up to 15 million tons. In the cement industry, coal is used as a basic material for fuel in kilns. For its utilization, coal needs to know its properties. These properties can be known by proximate analysis, sulfur content analysis and calorific value.  Therefore, this research aims to find out and determine whether the quality of Bonto Matinggi coal is in accordance with the coal specifications needed in the cement industry. The research method was carried out by taking two coal samples directly in the research area, namely SA I coal sample and SA II coal sample. The coal samples were then prepared and further analyzed. Analysis of coal sample quality was carried out by proximate, sulfur and calorie analysis methods. The results of proximate analysis show that the moisture content in air dried both samples have a value that is not too significant with an average value of 6.29% adb; ash content of 19.99% adb; volatile matter of 46.79% adb and fixed carbon of 39.86% adb as well as sulfur content of 0.39% adb and calories with an average of 4,692.92 cal/g. The coal in the study area does not qualify as a basic material for fuel in kilns in the cement industry. The coal in the study area, if classified according to the Classification of in Seam Coal 1998, is classified as low grade coal (according to ash content) and the coal rank includes bituminous rank (medium rank).
Special Education Teacher Preparation in Hungary
Authors: Kellems Ryan , Hansen Blake , Huckvale Macy , Szekeres Ágota , Horváth Endre , Dawson Kaiya
Published: June 2024

This article provides an overview of general and special education in Hungary, including training and teacher preparation. We examine trends towards inclusion and the challenges of training general education teachers to support students with disabilities. We also outline the process of qualifying for special education and explore teacher preparation in Hungary, including the various paths to becoming a certified teacher and the ongoing professional development requirements. This article concludes by addressing the historical importance of public education in Hungary and the laws and policies pertaining to special education. We highlight current issues in special education and teacher preparation, such as the diagnosis process for autism and the need for improved support and pay for teachers. Overall, a comprehensive overview of special education in Hungary is provided, highlighting its challenges, progress, and areas for improvement.
DETERMINAN FRAUD PREVENTION DALAM PENGELOLAAN DANA DESA
Authors: Anandita Zulia Putri  , Reni Apriyani  , Yennisa
Published: June 2024

Fraud rentan terjadi di pemerintahan sektor publik, terutama  lembaga pemerintah desa dalam pengelolaan dana desa. Hal tersebut ditunjukkan berdasarkan data dari Indonesian Corrpution Watch lembaga pemerintah desa dan dana desa berada di urutan pertama yang rentan terjadi kasus korupsi di Indonesia. Penelitian ini menguji dan memperoleh bukti empiris pengaruh positif kompetensi aparatur desa, efektivitas pengendalian internal, whistleblowing system, dan good corporate governance terhadap pencegahan fraud pada pengelolaan dana desa. Pendekatan pada penelitian ini yaitu kuantitatif berupa data primer dengan menggunakan kuesioner sebagai sumber data. Purposive sampling dengan kriteria berdasarkan Permendagri No. 20 Tahun 2018 digunakan dalam proses pengambilan sampel, dan terdapat 210 responden. Metode untuk pengumpulan sampel yang ditetapkan dengan purposive sampling dengan kriteria yang mengacu pada Permendagri No. 20 Tahun 2018 dan total sampel sebanyak 210 responden. Metode pengujian data yaitu uji statistik deskriptif, uji kualitas data, dan uji hipotesis. Temuan penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kompetensi aparatur desa, efektivitas pengendalian internal, whistleblowing system, dan good corporate governance berpengaruh positif terhadap pencegahan fraud dalam pengelolaan dana desa. Hasil penelitian ini dapat memberikan kontribusi bagi pemerintah desa dalam upaya langkap preventif untuk mencegah fraud disektor publik khususnya pemerintah desa
Kemampuan Literasi Numerasi Siswa SMP Berbantuan Media Powtoon
Authors: Umasangaji Nurul Aprilya , Ardi Surtila , Ade Aisia , Rajak Rahma , Armin Asmiranda , Afandi Ahmad
Published: June 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan gambaran serta informasi mengenai kemampuan literasi numerasi siswa dengan bantuan media video animasi (powtoon). Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif. Jenis penelitian ini adalah studi kepustakaan yang menggunakan data dari artikel, berita, dan jurnal nasional. Teknik analisis yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah mempelajari isi dari artikel, jurnal serta konten video tersebut. Sama seperti pembelajaran Literasi dan Numerasi di sebagian besar Sekolah Menengah Pertama, pembelajarannya masih dianggap rendah. Hal ini diakibatkan karena kurang menariknya media pembelajaran yang digunaakan oleh guru dalam meyampaikan atau memberi soal yang berbasis literasi dan numerasi. Faktor tambahan adalah kurangnya dorongan dan pengawasan dari orang tua. Dalam hal ini, dorongan dan pengawasan dimaksudkan untuk mendorong anak untuk belajar di malam hari dengan bantuan orang tua, sehingga orang tua tahu seberapa baik anak memahami materi yang diajarkan.Kata kunci: Kemampuan literasi numerasi, Powtoon
Kover, Dewan Redaksi, Daftar Isi, Vol. 4 No.2, Mei 2024
Authors: Penyunting Ketua Dewan
Published: June 2024

Kover, Dewan Redaksi, Daftar Isi, Vol. 4 No.2, Mei 2024
DETERMINATION OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF HIPPOPHAE RHAMNOIDES L. GROWING IN TURKEY AND INVESTIGATION OF ITS EFFECTS ON THE LIVER TOXICITY IN RATS
Authors: Çapa Metin , Kadıoğlu Yücel , Çadırcı Elif , Albayrak Mevlüt
Published: June 2024

Objective: The goal of the present work was to investigate the antioxidant properties of the extracts of Hippophae rhamnoides L. and to determine their effects on liver toxicity in rats.
Material and Method: Metal chelation, reducing power and DPPH radical scavenging methods were used in the antioxidant activity analysis of extracts. The total phenolic content was determined using the folin-ciocalteu reagent. Plant extracts were administered orally to the rats at doses of 500 µg/kg for 2 days. Each animal group was composed of six female Albino Wistar rats with an average weight of 250 g. Microscopic examination was carried out to observe any pathological changes in the rat livers.
Result and Discussion: Water extract showed the highest radical scavenging activity (48.65%), reducing power (0.291 absorbance at 700 nm) and metal chelating (35.40%) at 1 mg/ml concentration. Histopathological studies showed that especially water extract reduced the severity of CCl4-induced intoxication. Hippophae rhamnoides L. extracts were found to have antioxidant activity, and also Hippophae rhamnoides L. water extract was shown to be particularly effective in preventing liver damage.
Fouad Chehab and the Soft Power post-1958 Crisis in Comparison to the Latest Crisis: Lessons Learned in Facing Violence
Authors: Kachar, PhD. Simon A.
Published: June 2024

This paper focuses on the approaches that former Lebanese President of the Republic Fouad Chehab (1958-1964) followed to face and overcome the crisis and the violence that took place in the summer of 1958 against the constitutional amendment that would have allowed the outgoing President Camille Chamoun (1952-1958) a second term of office. It also explains Chehab’s priority in restoring Lebanese unity and stability based on the National Pact of 1943 aiming at ensuring a peaceful, prosperous, and dignified Lebanese existence. It digs into the attempt to secure a better future”, and the recovery from the 1958 crisis including the re-establishment of a spirit of harmony, unity, and cooperation among the different Lebanese communities; all from the perspective of the “soft power” Chehab followed to face the 1958 violent and sectarian crisis. It reflects the past to our current days, especially after 2019 including the tragedy of the Beirut seaport explosion on August 4th, 2020. What lessons can be learned from the Chehabist experience in facing one of Lebanon’s most violent and sectarian crises? What if the same approach was followed in our recent crisis?
Storynomics Tourism Sebagai Strategi Dalam Pengembangan Kampung Paropo Sebagai Wisata Budaya
Authors: Ahmad Suthami Putra  , Hilda Anjarsari  , Muh. Zainuddin Badollahi
Published: June 2024

Penelitian ini berkaitan dengan storynomics tourism sebagai startegi dalam pengembangan wisata pada kampung Paropo di Makassar, kampung ini merupakan kampung kesenian yang telah banyak menghasilkan seniman handal di kota Makassar. Kampung paropo juga merupakan kampung tua yang memiliki hubungan dengan kerajaan Gowa. Di kampung Paropo terdapat beberapa kesenian yang Populer antaralain Tari Kondobuleng, tari pepe pepeka ri makkah dan sinrili. pendekatan storynomics tourism pada kampung paropo dapat dilihat dari sejarah kampong dan kesenian yang masih dilestarikan hingga kini.
Local Culinary Travel Pattern Development Model in Lerep Tourism Village
Authors: Setiawan Wibowo  , Nur Farah Fajriaty Muchlis  , Muhammad Yahya
Published: June 2024

This study aims to create a model for the development of the Local Culinary Travel Pattern in mapping the tourist segment who likes traditional food types and preparations using the Storynomics Tourism approach as a determinant of steps to enjoy regional culinary specialties. The research method used is qualitative using in-depth interview techniques with village officials, visiting tourists and local communities in the Lerep Tourism Village, Semarang Regency with field observation activities and literature review. The results of this study can develop culinary tourism activities that are packaged with traditional culinary markets in Lerep Tourism Village using the development model of a local culinary travel pattern based on local wisdom which is transformed into a menu of traditional creations from the community in synergy with views for tourism actors and potential tourists to determine activities culinary tourism trips that focus on local food as a cultural characteristic of an area.
Compensation Management for Industrial Employees of Sport Event Venue Management(Case Study: PT. Jakabaring Sport City)
Authors: Ahmad Kurniawan  , Muhammad Iqbal Djohan
Published: June 2024

The difference in the management of compensation given to employees of PT Jakabaring Sport City as an industry for managing sport event venues in Palembang City is not in accordance with the rules issued by the Ministry of Manpower of the Republic of Indonesia. The only compensation given is salary, incentives and facilities. However, in theory (Henry Simamora, 2004) explains that compensation must be given in the form of four categories including salary, benefits, incentives, and facilities that support the work of the employee. Therefore, it is interesting for researchers to examine this research more comprehensively. The purpose of this study is to find out how the differences in management of compensation in the form of four types need to be carried out in accordance with the theory that supports this phenomenon. The research method used is descriptive quantitative method on saturated sampling or census, because the samples taken in this study were less than twenty respondents. Thus, the aims and objectives of this research can be clearly measured. From the research method that has been carried out, it provides results and discussion that salaries, benefits, incentives and facilities that have been given to employees so far are not in accordance with the rules and performance loyalty that they have given to the company.
Allergen-specific IgA and IgG antibodies as inhibitors of mast cell function in food allergy
Authors: Furiness Kameryn N. , El Ansari Yasmeen S. , Oettgen Hans C. , Kanagaratham Cynthia
Published: June 2024

Food allergy, a group of adverse immune responses to normally innocuous food protein antigens, is an increasingly prevalent public health issue. The most common form is IgE-mediated food allergy in which food antigen-induced crosslinking of the high-affinity IgE-receptor, FcεRI, on the surface of mast cells triggers the release of inflammatory mediators that contribute to a wide range of clinical manifestations, including systemic anaphylaxis. Mast cells also play a critical function in adaptive immunity to foods, acting as adjuvants for food-antigen driven Th2 cell responses. While the diagnosis and treatment of food allergy has improved in recent years, no curative treatments are currently available. However, there is emerging evidence to suggest that both allergen-specific IgA and IgG antibodies can counter the activating effects of IgE antibodies on mast cells. Most notably, both antigen-specific IgA and IgG antibodies are induced in the course of oral immunotherapy. In this review, we highlight the role of mast cells in food allergy, both as inducers of immediate hypersensitivity reactions and as adjuvants for type 2 adaptive immune responses. Furthermore, we summarize current understanding of the immunomodulatory effects of antigen-specific IgA and IgG antibodies on IgE-induced mast cell activation and effector function. A more comprehensive understanding of the regulatory role of IgA and IgG in food allergy may provide insights into physiologic regulation of immune responses to ingested antigens and could seed novel strategies to treat allergic disease.
Increased dietary methionine, lysine and histidine supply modulated the heat stress-induced metabolic remodeling of dairy cows
Authors: Jorge-Smeding Ezequiel , Ruiz-González Alexis , Leung Yue Hei , Trujillo Ana Inés , Astessiano Ana Laura , Ouellet Daniel R. , Lapierre Hélène , Rico Daniel E. , Kenéz Ákos
Published: June 2024

Increasing dietary Met, Lys, and His supply without increasing the dietary protein content was reported to partially alleviate the productive and physiological impact of heat stress. Nevertheless, the metabolic pathways involved are yet to be identified. Thus, we aimed to explore the metabolic pathways associated with these positive effects and develop new metabolomics-based hypotheses. Twelve lactating Holstein cows (primiparous, n = 6; multiparous, n = 6; 42.2 ± 10.6 kg/d milk yield; 83 ± 28 days in milk) were enrolled in two 3×3 replicated Latin squares consisting of 14-day treatment periods: heat stress [HS; max. Temperature Humidity Index (THI) 84, 16.8% crude protein (CP), 1,741 g/d metabolizable protein (MP), 108 Lys, 33 Met, and 37 His (g/d)], pair feeding in thermo-neutrality (TN; max. THI 64, same diet as HS), and HS with increased Lys, Met and His supply [HS+AA; max. THI 84; 17.0% CP, 1,730 g/d MP, 179 Lys, 58 Met, and 45 His (g/d)]. Blood plasma and milk were sampled on day 14 for metabolomics profiling. Several amino acids (AA) and derivatives differed between the treatments. Plasma and milk Met, Val, Trp and α-amino adipic acid concentrations were highest in HS+AA (false discovery rate-P (FDR) < 0.05). Moreover, only plasma Lys and milk His were highest in HS+AA (FDR < 0.05). Some phosphatidylcholines (PC) and diglycerides had lower concentrations in HS than TN (FDR < 0.05), while HS+AA had similar concentrations as TN. The pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the AA-related pathways were more significantly affected in multiparous than in primiparous cows. Our results suggest that increased supply of Met stimulated PC synthesis in HS+AA to similar concentrations as in TN. Increased Lys supply likely elevated the oxidation rate of Lys and downregulated the catabolism of other essential AA (EAA) such as Val and Trp, stimulating milk protein synthesis. No clear associations were found related to His availability. In conclusion, partial amelioration of productive and physiological effects of heat stress associated with increased dietary Met and Lys supply were likely explained by stimulated PC synthesis and increased plasma and milk concentrations of other EEA.
Effects of different seat inclination angles on lumbar dynamic response and injury during lunar-earth reentry
Authors: Jin Mengmeng , Wang Jiatao , Zhou Qianxiang , Guo Pan , Zhang Jingfei , Wang Yi
Published: June 2024

The inclination angle of the spacecraft seat is related to the astronaut’s reentry angle, which in turn affects the safety of the astronauts. This study quantitatively analyzed the effects of different seat inclination angles on astronauts’ lumbar spine injuries using the finite element method during the Lunar-Earth reentry. Firstly, a finite element model of the astronaut’s lumbar spine was constructed based on reverse engineering technology, and the effectiveness of the model was verified through mesh sensitivity, vertebral range of motion, and spinal impact experiments. Then, simulation calculations were carried out for different seat inclination angles (0°, 10°, 20°, and 30°) under the typical reentry return loads of Chang’e 5T1 (CE-5T1) and Apollo 10, and the prediction and evaluation of lumbar spine injuries were conducted in conjunction with the biological tissue injury criteria. The results indicated that the stress on the vertebrae and annulus fibrosus increased under both reentry loads with the rise of the seat inclination angle, but the increasing rates decreased. When the acceleration peak of CE-5T1 approached 9G, the risk of tissue injury was higher under the seat angle exceeded 20°. According to the Multi-Axis Dynamic Response Criteria for spinal injury, neither of the two load conditions would directly cause injury to the astronauts’ lumbar spine when the seat inclination angle was below 30°. The study findings provide a numerical basis for designing and improving the spacecraft’s inclination angle in crewed lunar missions, ensuring the safety of astronauts.
Progress of nanoparticle drug delivery system for the treatment of glioma
Authors: Lai Guogang , Wu Hao , Yang Kaixia , Hu Kaikai , Zhou Yan , Chen Xiao , Fu Fan , Li Jiayi , Xie Guomin , Wang Hai-Feng , Lv Zhongyue , Wu Xiping
Published: June 2024

Gliomas are typical malignant brain tumours affecting a wide population worldwide. Operation, as the common treatment for gliomas, is always accompanied by postoperative drug chemotherapy, but cannot cure patients. The main challenges are chemotherapeutic drugs have low blood-brain barrier passage rate and a lot of serious adverse effects, meanwhile, they have difficulty targeting glioma issues. Nowadays, the emergence of nanoparticles (NPs) drug delivery systems (NDDS) has provided a new promising approach for the treatment of gliomas owing to their excellent biodegradability, high stability, good biocompatibility, low toxicity, and minimal adverse effects. Herein, we reviewed the types and delivery mechanisms of NPs currently used in gliomas, including passive and active brain targeting drug delivery. In particular, we primarily focused on various hopeful types of NPs (such as liposome, chitosan, ferritin, graphene oxide, silica nanoparticle, nanogel, neutrophil, and adeno-associated virus), and discussed their advantages, disadvantages, and progress in preclinical trials. Moreover, we outlined the clinical trials of NPs applied in gliomas. According to this review, we provide an outlook of the prospects of NDDS for treating gliomas and summarise some methods that can enhance the targeting specificity and safety of NPs, like surface modification and conjugating ligands and peptides. Although there are still some limitations of these NPs, NDDS will offer the potential for curing glioma patients.
Transgenic mice applications in the study of endometriosis pathogenesis
Authors: Zhao Yali , Wang Yao , Gu Pinlang , Tuo Lingjin , Wang Leilei , Jiang Shi-Wen
Published: June 2024

Endometriosis (EM), characterized by ectopic growth of endometrial tissues and recurrent pelvic pain, is a common disease with severe negative impacts on the life quality of patients. Conventional uterine tissue transplantation-based models have been broadly used to investigate the pathogenic mechanism(s) of EM. Transgenic mice with whole body or uterine/pelvic tissue-specific labelling by the expression of GFP, β-gal or other light-emitting or chromogenic markers enable investigators to analyze the contribution to endometriotic lesions by the donor or recipient side after uterine tissue transplantation. Moreover, when coupled to uterine tissue transplantation, transgenic mice with a specific EM-related gene knocked out or overexpressed make it possible to determine the gene’s in vivo role(s) for EM pathogenesis. Furthermore, observations on the rise of de novo endometriotic lesions as well as structural/functional changes in the eutopic endometrium or pelvic tissues after gene manipulation will directly relate the cognate gene to the onset of EM. A major advantage of transgenic EM models is their efficiency for analyzing gene interactions with hormonal, dietetic and/or environmental factors. This review summarizes the features/sources/backgrounds of transgenic mice and their applications to EM studies concerning hormonal regulation, angiogenesis and inflammation. Findings from these studies, the advantages/disadvantages of transgenic EM models, and future expectations are also discussed.
Development of elliptic core-shell nanoparticles with fluorinated surfactants for 19F MRI
Authors: Wu Yue , Minoshima Masafumi , Kikuchi Kazuya
Published: June 2024

Perfluorocarbon-encapsulated silica nanoparticles possess attractive features such as biological inertness and favorable colloidal properties for bioimaging with fluorine magnetic resonance imaging (19F MRI). Herein, a series of elliptic shaped silica nanoparticles with perfluorocarbon liquid perfluoro-15-crown-5 ether as core (PFCE@SiO2) were synthesized using fluorinated surfactants N-(perfluorononylmethyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (C10-TAC) and N-(perfluoroheptylmethyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (C8-TAC). The nanoparticles are characterized to obtain elliptic core-shell structures. PFCE@SiO2 showed strong 19F NMR signals of the encapsulated PFCE, indicating the potential as a highly sensitive 19F MRI probe. These elliptic PFCE@SiO2 nanoparticles provide a new option of 19F MRI probe with a morphology different from conventional nanospheres.
Legitimacy through representation? Media sources and discourses of offshore wind development
Authors: Diamond Emily P. , Damato Nikol , Smythe Tiffany , Bidwell David
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The choice of which individuals and entities to include as sources in newspaper articles is an important decision for journalists, in large part because they can shape how readers understand the issue and which arguments become most salient. This is particularly important for issues that are relatively new or unknown to readers. The growing topic of offshore wind in the United States is a prime example of an issue that many people are encountering for the first time via media reporting. This issue has also proven to be highly divisive, with heated oppositional arguments being promoted by different entities. This study seeks to understand which entities are being represented in media coverage of offshore wind, and the different framing strategies that various entities use in quotes about the first two large-scale projects in the United States, South Fork Wind and Vineyard Wind I.

Methods

We use a newspaper content analysis to identify and code the sources quoted in articles reporting on South Fork Wind and Vineyard Wind I from 2013-2022, as well as the emphasis frames used by each entity.

Results

We find that coverage varies in the two cases, but developers and political officials are quoted most frequently. As these entities tend to use frames highlighting the benefits of offshore wind more frequently than the risks, those perspectives dominate news coverage. Meanwhile, perspectives of community members and impacted industries such as the fishing industry are represented less frequently in news coverage.

Discussion

These findings help explain the dominance of certain frames and perspectives in offshore wind, and they raise important questions about which voices are legitimized through representation in news media.
Exosomal noncoding RNAs: decoding their role in thyroid cancer progression
Authors: Sun Weiming , Jiang Chenjun , Liu Qianqian , Wang Na , Huang Runchun , Jiang Gengchen , Yang Yuxuan
Published: June 2024

Exosomes, as pivotal entities within the tumor microenvironment, orchestrate intercellular communication through the transfer of diverse molecules, among which non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs play a crucial role. These ncRNAs, endowed with regulatory functions, are selectively incorporated into exosomes. Emerging evidence underscores the significance of exosomal ncRNAs in modulating key oncogenic processes in thyroid cancer (TC), including proliferation, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, and immunoediting. The unique composition of exosomes shields their cargo from enzymatic and chemical degradation, ensuring their integrity and facilitating their specific expression in plasma. This positions exosomal ncRNAs as promising candidates for novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in TC. Moreover, the potential of exosomes in the therapeutic landscape of TC is increasingly recognized. This review aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between exosomal ncRNAs and TC, fostering a deeper comprehension of their mechanistic involvement. By doing so, it endeavors to propel forward the exploration of exosomal ncRNAs in TC, ultimately paving the way for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies predicated on exosomes and their ncRNA content.
Prevalence and co-prevalence of comorbidities among Chinese adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional, multicenter, retrospective, observational study based on 3B study database
Authors: Ji Qiuhe , Chai Shangyu , Zhang Ruya , Li Jihu , Zheng Yiman , Rajpathak Swapnil
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and co-prevalence of comorbidities among Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively retrieved from the 3B Study database, which provided a comprehensive assessment of comorbid conditions in Chinese adult outpatients with T2DM. Patient characteristics, laboratory measures, and comorbidities were summarized via descriptive analyses, overall and by subgroups of age (<65, 65–74, 75 years) and gender.

Results

Among 25,454 eligible patients, 53% were female, and the median age was 63 years. The median time of diabetes duration was 6.18 years. A total of 20,309 (79.8%) patients had at least one comorbid condition alongside T2DM. The prevalence of patients with one, two, three, and four or more comorbid conditions was 28.0%, 24.6%, 15.6%, and 11.6%, respectively. Comorbidity burden increased with longer T2DM duration. Older age groups also exhibited higher comorbidity burden. Females with T2DM had a higher overall percentage of comorbidities compared to males (42.7% vs. 37.1%). The most common comorbid conditions in T2DM patients were hypertension (HTN) in 59.9%, overweight/obesity in 58.3%, hyperlipidemia in 42.0%, retinopathy in 16.5%, neuropathy in 15.2%, cardiovascular disease (CVD) in 14.9%, and renal disease in 14.4%. The highest co-prevalence was observed for overweight/obesity and HTN (37.6%), followed by HTN and hyperlipidemia (29.8%), overweight/obesity and hyperlipidemia (27.3%), HTN and CVD (12.6%), HTN and retinopathy (12.1%), and HTN and renal disease (11.3%).

Conclusion

The majority of T2DM patients exhibit multiple comorbidities. Considering the presence of multimorbidity is crucial in clinical decision-making.

Systematic review registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT01128205.
Relative efficacy and safety of mesenchymal stem cells for osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Tian Xiaoyuan , Qu Zhenan , Cao Ying , Zhang Bocheng
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched from inception to May 6, 2024 to identify randomized controlled trials that compared MSCs and placebo or other nonsurgical approaches for treating OA. Two investigators independently searched the literature and extracted data, and conventional meta-analyses were conducted with Review Manager 5.3. The outcomes included pain relief, functional improvement, and risk of adverse events (AEs).

Results

A total of 18 articles were included. Overall, MSCs were superior to placebo in terms of relieving pain and improving function at the 12-month follow-up. However, the differences in treatment-related AEs were not significant.

Conclusion

MSCs may relieving pain and improving function of OA. The limitations of this study include the high heterogeneity of the included studies. Additionally, the follow-up time in the included studies was relatively short, so more clinical trials are needed to predict the long-term efficacy and safety of MSCs.

Systematic review registration

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/5BT6E, identifier CRD42022354824.
Proficiency in performing radiofrequency ablation procedure for non-functioning benign thyroid nodules: a qualitative rather than quantitative matter
Authors: Chytiris Spyridon , Teliti Marsida , Croce Laura , Coperchini Francesca , Grillini Beatrice , Cerutti Matteo , Fonte Rodolfo , Magri Flavia , Rotondi Mario
Published: June 2024

Objective

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging non-surgical treatment for benign thyroid nodules (BTN). Despite its proven safety profile, data on the learning curve (LC) required to achieve proficiency are still lacking.

Materials and methods

The first 179 RFA procedures performed by a single operator in patients with non-functioning BTN were retrospectively analyzed. Six-month nodule volume reduction rate (VRR) ≥ 50% was regarded as reflection of proficiency. Multiple linear regression analysis has been performed to determine the relationship between the VRR and clinical variables. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) charts were plotted to assess LCs for all consecutive procedures and in relation to basal nodule size. In details, Group 1 (G1): 57 patients with small nodules (<10 ml); Group 2 (G2): 87 patients with intermediate nodules (10 – 25 ml); Group 3 (G3): 35 patients with large size (> 25 ml).

Results

LC of all 179 procedures showed 3 phases: initial learning (1–39 procedures); consolidation (40–145 procedures); and experienced period (146–179 procedures). For G1 and G2 proficiency is achieved starting from the 10th procedure within the group (or 37th considering consecutively all procedures) and from the 59th procedure within the group (or 116th considering consecutively all procedures), respectively. LC of G3 did not detect operator proficiency.

Conclusion

Specific LCs exist concerning the basal size of the nodule treated with RFA. In nodules with baseline volume > 25 ml suboptimal VRR has to be expected. Previously achieved experience on small-intermediate nodules does not seem to provide advantages in terms of higher VRR in the treatment of large nodules. Other potential and non-modifiable factors likely play a key role in the final volume reduction independently from the increased skill of the operator.
Embryo transfer impact: a comprehensive national cohort analysis comparing maternal and neonatal outcomes across varied embryo stages in fresh and frozen transfers
Authors: Chang Chih-Ting , Weng Shih-Feng , Chuang Hui-Yu , Hsu I-Le , Hsu Chia-Yi , Tsai Eing-Mei
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The utilization of frozen embryo transfer not only enhances reproductive outcomes by elevating the likelihood of live birth and clinical pregnancy but also improves safety by mitigating the risks associated with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple pregnancies. There has been an increasing debate in recent years regarding the advisability of making elective frozen embryo transfer the standard practice. Our study aims to determine the optimal choice between fresh and frozen embryo transfer, as well as whether the transfer should occur at the cleavage or blastocyst stage.

Method

In this retrospective cohort study conducted in Taiwan, data from the national assisted reproductive technology (ART) database spanning from January 1st, 2013, to December 31st, 2017, were analyzed. The study included 51,762 eligible female participants who underwent ART and embryo transfer. Pregnancy outcomes, maternal complications, and singleton neonatal outcomes were evaluated using the National Health Insurance Database from January 1st, 2013, to December 31st, 2018. Cases were categorized into groups based on whether they underwent fresh or frozen embryo transfers, with further subdivision into cleavage stage and blastocyst stage transfers. Exposure variables encompassed clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, OHSS, pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus (DM), placenta previa, placental abruption, preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), gestational age, newborn body weight, and route of delivery.

Results

Frozen blastocyst transfers showed higher rates of clinical pregnancy (CPR) and live births (LBR) compared to fresh blastocyst transfers. Conversely, frozen cleavage stage transfers demonstrated lower rates of clinical pregnancy and live birth compared to fresh cleavage stage transfers. Frozen embryo transfers were associated with reduced risks of OHSS but were linked to a higher risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension compared to fresh embryo transfers. Additionally, frozen embryo transfers were associated with a higher incidence of large for gestational age infants and a lower incidence of small for gestational age infants.

Conclusion

The freeze-all strategy may not be suitable for universal application. When embryos can develop to the blastocyst stage, FET is a favorable choice, but embryos can only develop to the cleavage stage, fresh embryo transfer becomes a more reasonable option.
Association between remote resistance exercises programs delivered by a smartphone application and skeletal muscle mass among elderly patients with type 2 diabetes– a retrospective real-world study
Authors: Yang Jing , Tan Hongyu , Yu Haoyan , Li Jingshuo , Cui Yang , Lu Yuanjian , Liu Xin , Chen Qimin , Zhou Daan
Published: June 2024

Objective

We aimed to explore the relationship between remote resistance exercise programs delivered via a smartphone application and skeletal muscle mass among elderly patients with type 2 diabetes, utilizing real-world data.

Methods

The resistance exercises were provided through Joymotion®, a web-based telerehabilitation smartphone application (Shanghai Medmotion Medical Management Co., Ltd). The primary outcome was the changes in skeletal muscle index (SMI) before and after the remote resistance exercises programs. The secondary outcomes were changes in skeletal muscle cross-sectional area (SMA), skeletal muscle radiodensity (SMD) and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT).

Results

A total of 101 elderly patients with type 2 diabetes were analyzed. The participants had an average age of 72.9 ± 6.11 years for males and 74.4 ± 4.39 years for females. The pre- and post-intervention SMI mean (± SE) was 31.64 ± 4.14 vs. 33.25 ± 4.22 cm2/m2 in male, and 22.72 ± 3.24 vs. 24.28 ± 3.60 cm2/m2 in female respectively (all P < 0.001). Similarly, a statistically significant improvement in SMA, IMAT, and SMD for both male and female groups were also observed respectively (P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression models showed potential confounding factors of baseline hemoglobin A1c and duration of diabetes with changes in SMI in male, while hemoglobin A1c and high density lipoprotein cholesterol with changes in SMI in female.

Conclusion

Remote resistance exercises programs delivered by a smartphone application were feasible and effective in helping elderly patients with type 2 diabetes to improve their skeletal muscle mass.
Enhancing flexibility evaluation in AC/DC distribution systems for sustainable energy integration
Authors: Wang Luyang , Zhao Qianyu , Wang Shouxiang , Jiang Xingyue
Published: June 2024

With the exacerbation of environmental issues and the ongoing energy crisis, the large-scale integration of renewable energy resources has significantly increased the demand for flexibility in distribution systems. Establishing a comprehensive flexibility evaluation index system is crucial for the development, promotion, and optimization of AC/DC distribution systems. This paper focuses on the flexibility evaluation of AC/DC distribution systems, proposing a detailed flexibility evaluation index system and a comprehensive evaluation method based on the ANP-Entropy weighting model. The proposed flexibility evaluation index system comprises 18 key indexes categorized into four essential dimensions: overall flexibility performance, flexible resources participation, operational performance, and economic performance. The ANP-Entropy weighting model is employed to perform a thorough evaluation of the flexibility of AC/DC distribution systems. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed evaluation method, a case study is conducted. Additionally, the study explores the impacts of controllable distributed generator (CDG) capacity, energy storage system (ESS) capacity, and voltage source converter (VSC) capacity on the flexibility of AC/DC distribution systems. The results provide valuable insights into optimizing the flexibility and performance of AC/DC distribution systems.
Geospatial assessment of forest fire impacts utilizing high-resolution KazEOSat-1 satellite data
Authors: Suresh Babu K. V. , Singh Swati , Kabdulova G. , Gulnara Kabzhanova , Baktybekov G.
Published: June 2024

Forest fires or wildfires frequently occur in Kazakhstan, especially in the months from June to September, damaging the forest resources. Burnt area mapping is important for fire managers to take appropriate mitigation steps and carry out restoration activities after the fire event. In this study, KazEOSat-1 high-resolution satellite datasets are used to map the burnt area in the regions of Kazakhstan. KazEOSat-1 satellite is in a Sun-synchronous orbit, consisting of four bands, namely blue, green, red, and NIR multispectral bands, in 4 m spatial resolution, while panchromatic data are in 1 m spatial resolution. This study examined three spectral indices, namely AVI, BAI, and GEMI, for mapping the burnt area based on the four spectral bands NIR, blue, red, and green of the KazEOSat-1 satellite datasets. The DN values for each band are used to determine TOA reflectance, which is then used as a basis for deriving the aforementioned spectral indices. The results of spectral indices, AVI, BAI, and GEMI are compared based on a discriminative index (M) for quantifying the effectiveness of each index based on burned area derived from KazEOSat-1 datasets. The spectral index BAI shows higher M values than other indices; therefore, the index BAI has the higher capability to extract the burned area as compared with AVI and GEMI. Accuracy was calculated based on the number of forest fire incidents that fell in burned and unburned areas, and the results indicate that BAI shows the highest accuracy, whereas AVI shows the lowest accuracy among them. Therefore, the BAI has the highest ability for extracting the burned area using the KazEOSat-1 satellite datasets. As the revisit time period of KazEOSat is 3 days, this study will be useful to map the burnt area and fire progression in Kazakhstan.
Submerged cultivation and phytochemical analysis of medicinal mushrooms (Trametes sp.)
Authors: Srivastava Malay , Kumari Moni , Karn Santosh Kumar , Bhambri Anne , Mahale Vivek G. , Mahale Sushma
Published: June 2024

Mushrooms are widely available around the world and have various nutritional as well as therapeutic values. Many Asian cultures believe that medicinal mushrooms can prolong life and improve vitality. This study aims to characterize the phytochemical and polysaccharide content, mainly β-glucan content, of mycelial biomass and fruiting bodies collected from the Himalayan region, particularly Uttarakhand. Through molecular analysis of the LSU F/R-rDNA fragment sequence and phylogenetic analysis, the strain was identified as Trametes sp. We performed screening of phytochemicals and polysaccharides in mushroom and biomass extracts using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and a PC-based UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The macrofungal biomass was found to be high in saponin, anthraquinone, total phenolic, flavonoid, and β-glucan content. In biomass extract, we observed a high level of saponin (70.6µg/mL), anthraquinone (14.5µg/mL), total phenolic (12.45 µg/mL), and flavonoid (9.500 µg/mL) content. Furthermore, we examined the contents of alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, and sterols in the biomass and mushroom extracts; the concentration of these compounds in the ethanol extract tested was minimal. We also looked for antioxidant activity, which is determined in terms of the IC50 value. Trametes sp. mushroom extract exhibits higher DPPH radical scavenging activity (62.9% at 0.5 mg/mL) than biomass extract (59.19% at 0.5 mg/mL). We also analyzed β-glucan in Trametes sp. from both mushroom and biomass extracts. The biomass extract showed a higher β-glucan content of 1.713 mg/mL than the mushroom extract, which is 1.671 mg/mL. Furthermore, β-glucan analysis was confirmed by the Megazyme β-glucan assay kit from both biomass and mushroom extract of Trametes sp. β-glucans have a promising future in cancer treatment as adjuncts to conventional medicines. Producing pure β-glucans for the market is challenging because 90–95% of β glucan sold nowadays is thought to be manipulated or counterfeit. The present study supports the recommendation of Trametes sp. as rich in β-glucan, protein, phytochemicals, and antioxidant activities that help individuals with cancer, diabetes, obesity, etc.
Unraveling the genetic and molecular basis of heat stress in cotton
Authors: Ijaz Aqsa , Anwar Zunaira , Ali Ahmad , Ditta Allah , Shani Muhammad Yousaf , Haidar Sajjad , Wang Boahua , Fang Liu , Khan Sana Muhy-Ud-Din , Khan Muhammad Kashif Riaz
Published: June 2024

Human activities and climate change have resulted in frequent and intense weather fluctuations, leading to diverse abiotic stresses on crops which hampers greatly their metabolic activities. Heat stress, a prevalent abiotic factor, significantly influences cotton plant biological activities resulting in reducing yield and production. We must deepen our understanding of how plants respond to heat stress across various dimensions, encompassing genes, RNAs, proteins, metabolites for effective cotton breeding. Multi-omics methods, primarily genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and phenomics, proves instrumental in studying cotton’s responses to abiotic stresses. Integrating genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomic is imperative for our better understanding regarding genetics and molecular basis of heat tolerance in cotton. The current review explores fundamental omics techniques, covering genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, to highlight the progress made in cotton omics research.
Identification of the miRNA–mRNA regulatory network in a mouse model of early fracture
Authors: Wang Maochun , Xie Zhiyang , Yan Kaili , Qiao Chongxu , Yan Shunchao , Wu Guoping
Published: June 2024

Fracture healing is a complex process that involves multiple molecular events, and the regulation mechanism is not fully understood. We acquired miRNA and mRNA transcriptomes of mouse fractures from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GSE76197 and GSE192542) and integrated the miRNAs and genes that were differentially expressed in the control and fracture groups to construct regulatory networks. There were 130 differentially expressed miRNAs and 4,819 differentially expressed genes, including 72 upregulated and 58 downregulated miRNAs, along with 2,855 upregulated and 1964 downregulated genes during early fracture healing. Gene ontology analysis revealed that most of the differentially expressed genes were enriched in the extracellular matrix (ECM) structure and the ECM organization. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment suggested cell cycle, DNA replication, and mismatch repair were involved in the progression of fracture healing. Furthermore, we constructed a molecular network of miRNAs and mRNAs with inverse expression patterns to elucidate the molecular basis of miRNA–mRNA regulation in fractures. The regulatory network highlighted the potential targets, which may help to provide a mechanistic basis for therapies to improve fracture patient outcomes.