bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Általános táplálkozási és fizikai aktivitás, valamint az ezeket befolyásoló tényezők vizsgálata
Authors: Veréb Zsófia , Emri Zsuzsanna
Published: February 2024

Magyarország lakosságának közel fele rendelkezik magasabb testzsírszázalékkal, mint az egészséges arány plafonértéke. Ez a magas arányszám komolyan befolyásolja a várható élettartamot, és hozzájárul a magas megbetegedési rátához. Magyarországon a várható élettartam jóval rövidebb (75,5 év), mint a legtöbb európai országban, a leggyakoribb halálokok közé a szív- és érrendszeri betegségek, a cukorbetegség, a magasvérnyomás- és agyérrendszeri betegségek tartoznak, amelyek elkerülhető halálokok lehetnének, ha az emberek jobban odafigyelnének életmódjukra. Kutatásomban a mindennapi táplálkozási és mozgási szokásokat vizsgáltam online terjesztett kérdőív segítségével. A kérdőív feldolgozása során reális képet kaphatok a különböző életkörülmények között élők étkezési szokásairól és ahhoz tematikusan kapcsolódó életmódbeli jellemzőiről, mint például fizikai aktivitás, közlekedési szokások vagy a szabadidő eltöltésének módja. A különböző tényezők között Spearman-féle korrelációs együtthatók elemzésével kerestem összefüggéseket. A rendszeres étkezés, zöldség- és gyümölcsfogyasztás bizonyultak az egészséges táplálkozás legfontosabb elemeinek. Magas BMI-érték pedig leginkább az időseket és az egyedül élőket jellemezte. Az aktív életmóddal általában együtt járt az egészséges táplálkozásra való törekvés, míg a passzív életmódnál csak a folyadékfogyasztási szokásoknál tapasztaltuk, hogy minél passzívabb a kitöltő életmódja, annál egészségtelenebb folyadékfogyasztás jellemzi.
FENOMENA SERANGAN SIBER RUSIA TERHADAP UKRAINA: SEBAGAI PEMBELAJARAN BAGI INDONESIA DALAM PENGEMBANGAN PERTAHANAN SIBER
Authors: Anjelina Dina
Published: February 2024

Rusia, sebagai negara great power, sukses melumpuhkan infrastruktur Ukraina melalui serangan siber untuk melakukan aneksasi. Serangan siber Rusia menarik perhatian utama dalam keamanan global, dengan potensi terjadi di negara lain, termasuk Indonesia. Diperlukan peningkatan bentuk pertahanan siber di setiap negara untuk mengantisipasinya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis jenis serangan siber apa saja yang dilakukan oleh Rusia terhadap Ukraina. Selain itu, penelitian ini juga mengidentifikasi bagaimana upaya negara Indonesia dalam meningkatkan pertahanan siber sebagai bentuk kewaspadaan Indonesia. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode deskriptif melalui pendekatan kualitatif dengan data bersumber dari studi kepustakaan. Hasil penelitian ini adalah jenis serangan siber yang digunakan Rusia yaitu DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service), malware, ransomwar, dan phising. Adapun bentuk pengembangan pertahanan siber Indonesia yakni melalui teknik kriptografi, pembentukan tentara siber, dan bekerja sama dengan komunitas teknologi informasi.
PEMELIHARAAN RUDAL AIR TO GROUND DALAM RANGKA MENDUKUNG TUGAS TNI AU
Authors: Irianto Dwi Wahyu , Aritonang Sovian , Ansori Ansori
Published: February 2024

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) as an integral part of the Indonesian National Army plays a crucial role in maintaining and defending the sovereignty of the nation. However, the TNI AU faces several challenges in maintaining air to ground missiles, which are a vital part of the air defense system. Challenges such as limited maintenance facilities, the quality and quantity conditions of personnel, and insufficient software affect the implementation of maintenance. Therefore, this research will examine the maintenance strategy of air to ground missiles in order to increase the operational readiness and training of the TNI AU in maintaining the security of Indonesian airspace. The research method used is qualitative, using a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to missile maintenance. This research is conducted at Maintenance Depot 60 with informants chosen purposively. The results of the SWOT analysis will be used as a reference in determining the strategy in the maintenance of air to ground missiles. It is concluded that maintenance facilities, personnel, and software significantly influence the implementation of air to ground missile maintenance
PENGARUH PEMIKIRAN ALFRED THAYER MAHAN DAN JULIAN STAFFORD CORBETT TERHADAP ANGKATAN LAUT DALAM MENGHADAPI ANCAMAN MARIRIM
Authors: Ilyansyah Muh , Prakoso Lukman Yudho
Published: February 2024

Sebagai negara kepulauan, Indonesia memiliki laut yang luas dan kaya akan sumber daya lautnya, sehingga dengan demikian maka sudah kewajiban bagi negara untuk dapat menjaga dan melindungi perairan Indonesia. Tentara Nasional Indonesia Angkatan laut sebagai lembaga yang memiliki peran penting dalam menjaga pertahanan laut. Pengendalian secara sepenuhnya terhadap laut merupakan suatu hal yang bisa dilakukan oleh Angkatan Laut Indonesia dalam kaitannya sebagai kekuatan laut (Sea Power) sebagai upaya untuk menjaga dan melindungi laut. Dalam pelaksanaanya, Angkatan Laut diharapkan dapat membuat strategi maritim yang efektif dan fleksible sesuai dengan perkembangan jaman agar dapat menjaga perairan Indonesia.
STRATEGI INTEROPERABILITY KRI DENGAN SKADRON UDARA 52 UAV GUNA MENDUKUNG OPERASI KEAMANAN LAUT NATUNA UTARA
Authors: Nazara Zul Supri , Aritonang Sovian , Ansori Ansori
Published: February 2024

Operasi pengamanan Laut Natuna Utara dilakukan untuk menangkal dan menindak segala ancaman yang mengganggu kedaulatan wilayah Negara Kesatuan Republik Indonesia, termasuk pulau-pulau terluar dan daerah perbatasan laut. Tujuan penelitian adalah menganalisis strategi penerapan interoperabilitas KRI dengan UAV Skadron Udara 52 untuk efektivitas operasi keamanan laut di Laut Natuna Utara. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif, dengan pengumpulan data melalui wawancara, dan studi dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa berdasarkan aspek teknis masih terdapat keterbatasan dalam hal koordinasi, komunikasi, penggelaran dan sistem interoperabilitas antara KRI dan Skadron 52 yang mengoperasikan CH-4 masih terbatas berupa transfer data audio dengan frekuensi radio saja, sehingga hal ini belum mendukung realisasi sistem Network Centric Warfare (NCW). Dari aspek prosedural, sistem kendali terpadu udara dan laut ini menggunakan sistem data link dengan transfer suara terbatas. Dari sisi manusia, terdapat keterbatasan pada jumlah SDM CH-4 dan jumlah skuadron udara CH-4 itu sendiri. Kesimpulan penelitian dari tinjauan aspek teknis, prosedural dan manusia, interoperabilitas KRI dengan Skuadron UAV 52 dalam rangka operasi keamanan di Laut Natuna Utara masih belum efektif. Strategi pemanfaatan CH-4 dalam operasi pengamanan Laut Natuna dalam rangka menjaga kedaulatan negara adalah dalam rangka menangkal dan menindak segala ancaman yang mengganggu kedaulatan Republik Indonesia termasuk pulau-pulau terluar dan wilayah perbatasan laut. Sumber daya yang digunakan adalah seluruh jajaran Koarmada 1 dan Koopsau 1 sebagai unsur pelaksana yang dapat diintegrasikan dalam operasi keamanan laut Natura Utara
Inovasi Teknologi Budidaya Sayuran pada Lahan Kering Melalui Pupuk Organik dan Vertikultur dengan Sistem Fertigasi Sumbu di Desa Napan Kabupaten Timor Tengah Utara NTT
Authors: Sipayung Boanerges Putra , Tobing Wilda Lumban , Tefa Azor Yulianus , Epriliati Indah , Widyawati Paini Sri , Laurentinus Hadi Santoso , Buan Febrya Christin Handayani , Silla Misail Epainetus
Published: February 2024

This community service aims to increase the innovation of farmer groups in implementing vegetable cultivation technology in dry land through organic fertilizer and verticulture with a wick fertigation system. The method applied in this service uses counseling and training (learning by doing). The implementation was carried out on the agricultural land of the Nunuh Naek and Taruna Tani Farmer Group in October – December 2023. This activity involved the Napan Village Government and the North Bikomi District Agricultural Extension Officer to support the partner team together with the Implementing Team (University of Timor) and the Accompanying Team (Widya Catholic University Mandala Surabaya) to develop regional development programs in accordance with the relationship between Kosabangsa and RPJMD activities. The results of the service concluded that there was an increase in the ability of farmer groups to independently design verticulture with a wick fertigation system as an innovation in cultivating vegetables on dry land; able to apply Ribon Atom I as a soil amendment as well as adding nutrients to plants; and increasing the ability of partners in agribusiness management of horticultural farming.
Hypophysitis In An Elderly Woman With COVID-19 - A Case Report
Authors:   Clinics Hospital of Pernambuco, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, Martinez Accioly Alicia Rafaela , Peixoto Isaura Romero ,   Clinics Hospital of Pernambuco, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil,   Post-Graduate Program in Tropical Medicine, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, Mourato Brasil Felipe Alves ,   Post-Graduate in Biology Applied to Health, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
Published: February 2024

We report a case of an 87-year-old woman with hyperactive delirium about seven days after diarrhea. Serology for COVID-19, collected at the time of behavioral symptoms, was positive. She evolved with a decreased level of consciousness and normal neuroimaging and electroencephalogram tests. Endocrinological investigation found dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, with a good response to hormone replacement. In conclusion, this report emphasizes the importance of being alert to atypical clinical manifestations and unusual complications against the background of Covid-19.
The Bacterial Cell Envelope
Authors:   , Xu Yang
Published: February 2024

Although there has been significant progress in the understanding of the mechanism and regulation of bacterial cell envelope biogenesis, further exploration is required to fully understand the bacterial cell envelope and its synthesis machineries and develop new methods to kill bacteria. This thesis aims to showcase the fluorescent labeling methods for studying bacterial cell wall envelopes and their application in studying outer membrane (OM) permeability and killing antibiotic-resistant pathogens. The assays involve chemical and chemoenzymatic synthesis, advanced microscopy techniques, and microorganism assays, and expand the toolbox of labeling bacteria and make it more accessible to a wider range of researchers. Chapter 2 describes a fluorescent labeling method that can label the newly synthesized lipopolysaccharides (LPS) of Gram-negative bacteria using azido-galactose, which is a common monosaccharide in bacterial LPS. This method provides a new way to specifically label Gram-negative bacteria through a click-chemistry reaction. Chapter 3 outlines a labeling strategy for peptidoglycan (PG) by functionalizing GlcNAc. This one-step biosynthesis of UDP-GlcNAz serves as an intermediate for incorporation into PG, allowing for labeling of the glycan core of PG. This approach provides a complementary labeling strategy for bacterial labeling that targets a different component than the previous study. The study is published in iScience in 2022. Chapter 4 describes the photodynamic inactivation of antibiotic-resistant pathogens using chemical photosensitizers, including photoactive D-amino acid derivatives and antibiotic photosensitizers. The killing mechanisms involve the incorporation of D-amino acids, penicillin-binding protein (PBP) binding, and D-ala-D-ala binding, leading to membrane damage and efficient killing of MRSA and VISA. Chapter 5 investigates OM permeability through a designed approach of labeling peptidoglycan with trans-cyclooctenes (TCO) and using fluorogenic probes to indicate OM permeability through the strain-promoted inverse electron-demanding Diels-Alder cycloaddition (SPIEDAC) reaction. This provides a direct method to indicate OM permeability. In summary, this thesis showcases new and complementary fluorescent labeling methods for bacterial components and their applications in studying OM permeability and killing antibiotic-resistant pathogens. These methods expand the toolbox of labeling bacteria and provide useful tools for researchers to study bacterial cell envelope biogenesis.
Unveiling the Lipidome of Extracellular Vesicles in Joint Disorders
Authors:   , Varela Pinzon Laura Andrea
Published: February 2024

Arthritis occurs when joints become inflamed, leading to symptoms like pain and stiffness. The primary forms are osteoarthritis (OA), characterized by low-grade inflammation and gradual degeneration, and more fulminant autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis (SpA). Arthritis is very common in humans and horses and the comparable joint architecture of both species, makes of horses a good model for humans.
Joint fluid lubricates and nourishes the joint. In this fluid numerous biological compounds are found, among which so-called “extracellular vesicles” (EVs). EVs are released by cells and composed of a lipid membrane and cargo molecules, such as proteins or RNA, for communication between cells. EVs have great potential as biomarkers, however, most studies focus on cargo only and ignore the lipids.
In this thesis, we showed a correlation between the lipid and protein composition that changes according to the degree of OA, demonstrating the potential of EVs as composite biomarkers. We also identified that during the inflammatory peak of acute synovitis in horses, a specific lipid class, which is derived from neutrophils, the major invading cell in the joint during inflammation, becomes predominant. Similarly, in human neutrophil-derived EVs, a related, slightly different lipid class was predominant, which was also found in EVs from joint fluid of RA and SpA patients. We anticipate that further EV characterization may lead to the identification of new EV-biomarkers. Our results offer important insights into the potential of EV lipid-related biomarkers in arthritis and the role of neutrophil-related inflammation.
THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL AUDIT IN ENSURING THE RELIABILITY OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Authors: LYSHCHENKO OLENA , OCHERET'KO LARYSA , LUKANOVSKA IRYNA , SOBOLIEVA-TERESHCHENKO OLENA , NAZARENKO INNA
Published: February 2024

The audit of financial statements is positioned as an integral part of an unbiased assessment and control of financial activities. It is aimed at ensuring their reliability and compliance with generally accepted standards. It is necessary to actualize the role of financial audits due to the dynamics of conditions and factors affecting companies' activities. This study aims to substantiate the role of financial audits as a guarantee of financial statements' reliability. Furthermore, the article seeks to develop proposals for improving financial audit methodology. The research was carried out by using general scientific methods of cognition. These include logical and structural analysis, comparison, abstraction, specification, and generalization. The study examines the role of financial audits in ensuring the reliability and accuracy of financial statements in terms of the directionality and functionality of the phenomenon under study. The authors paid special attention to the identification of financial audit's place in the management paradigm under current economic realities. The article generalized the essence of financial statement audit and analyzed its procedures. The authors highlighted the potential risks related to the phenomena of improper implementation of the financial statement audit or neglect of the need for its conduct. In particular, it has been established that the primary negative consequences of such phenomena will affect investment planning and financial stability. The study proves that due to the unstable economic environment, an effective financial audit serves as a prerequisite for improving the quality of financial reporting and optimizing the sectoral management paradigm.
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS A BUSINESS MANAGEMENT TOOL
Authors: PANCHENKO OLHA , BALAZYUK OKSANA , PORTOVARAS TETІANA , ANDRIEIEVA VITA , KOTKOVSKYY VOLODYMYR
Published: February 2024

In today's dynamic business environment and intensified competition among companies, the study of financial stability and management efficiency is crucial for any successful organization. Therefore, the analysis of financial statements is a necessary tool for enterprises to make rational management decisions and achieve strategic goals. Additionally, financial analysis is essential in the context of increasing competition and market volatility. The capacity to promptly respond to changes in the economic environment and adapt strategies is increasingly crucial for ensuring enterprise efficiency. Financial statement analysis, in particular, enables companies to assess their financial strength, determine optimal development strategies and make informed decisions in a changing market environment. Financial statement analysis is a crucial aspect of successful management. It involves a systematic analysis of an enterprise's financial and economic activities, including its structure, dynamics, and effectiveness. The scientific literature reviewed in this paper emphasizes the significance of financial statement analysis as a tool for identifying risks, formulating management strategies, and enhancing financial stability. In particular, the article discusses various aspects of the analytical approach, methods and tools of analysis that can help companies make informed management decisions. This article aims to explore the role and importance of financial statement analysis in business management. It covers various aspects of the analytical approach, methods, and implements of analysis to determine how this tool can become crucial for making informed strategic and operational decisions.
Essayistic Tendencies in the Performing Arts
Authors: Delbecke Jasper
Published: February 2024

This article reflects on five recent performances described in different ways as essay or as essayistic by the artists themselves. Inspired by how the essay form has disseminated, over the last decades, into film, resulting in the established genre of the essay film, it explores what the transposition of the essay onto the stage looks like. The works of Ogutu Muraya, Silke Huysmans and Hannes Dereere, Ho Rui An, Mobile Akademie Berlin, and Jozef Wouters serve as case studies to examine how a performance can be discussed as an essay or as being essayistic.
On Occasion: The Essay’s Moment
Authors: Murphy Kathryn
Published: February 2024

This essay argues that the essay is written under the sign of occasion. The allegorical figure of Occasio, known in Greek as Kairos, figured the moment of opportunity which must be seized for success in rhetoric, politics, and life; failure to grasp the occasion leads to Metanoia, or regret. The first sections show how the early essayists Michel de Montaigne, Francis Bacon, and Robert Boyle shaped the essay as an occasional genre. The final sections turn to the contemporary writer and photographer Teju Cole, to show how photography engages with the decisive moment of Occasio, and how Cole’s ‘lyric essay’ Blind Spot, composed of texts and photographs, reinscribes the themes of occasion, seizure, and regret which animated the early essay.
Time in the Essay; or, Essayistic Temporality
Authors: Aquilina Mario
Published: February 2024

Time, its passing, the way it affects experience, the way we are tied with temporality and with an acute awareness of mortality, and the attempt to make sense of it all or to envisage or imagine a different time or a specific future, are central motifs in many essays. This essay focuses on how certain conceptions of time are essential to the essayistic. The ‘essayistic’, often described as an ‘impulse’ in the essay or its ‘spirit’, is here conceived as a mode that is closely tied to the essay as a form or genre with specific formal or thematic characteristics but that can also appear elsewhere. Essays by Michel de Montaigne, Charles Lamb, William Hazlitt, Joan Didion, E. B. White, Annie Dillard, Emily Ogden, and Valeria Luiselli are read closely from the perspective of what they suggest about essayistic temporality.
COMPARISON OF THE HIDDEN CURRICULUM FOR NURSING EDUCATION OF TWO DIFFERENT UNIVERSITIES IN THE EAST AND WEST OF TURKIYE
Authors: Elmalı Şimşek Hülya , Aksoy Meyreme
Published: February 2024

The present study aimed to determine and compare the hidden curriculum of two institutions that provide undergraduate nursing education in two different regions of Türkiye. The descriptive and cross-sectional research was conducted with 319 nursing students. Data were collected with the Introductory Information Form and Hidden Curriculum Evaluation Scale in Nursing Education (HCES-N). While the mean score of the HCES-N total score of the nursing students attending the university in the West of Türkiye was 163.31 ± 21.69. The HCES-N total mean score of the nursing students attending in the East of Türkiye was calculated as 145.50 ± 25.81. While the HCES-N total score, school atmosphere, and professional achievement scores of the nursing students attending the university in the West of Türkiye were statistically higher than the nursing students attending the university in the east, the student-teacher-school interaction score was statistically lower. It was determined that the perceptions of the students participating in the study towards the hidden curriculum were moderate, while the perceptions of the students studying in the West of Türkiye were better. In line with these results, it is important to improve the physical conditions of schools in improving the hidden curriculum.
INVESTIGATION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS IN FRESH AND SUN DRIED APRICOT FRUITS OF DIFFERENT CULTIVARS
Authors: Kan Tuncay , Karaat Fırat Ege
Published: February 2024

Bu çalışma farklı kayısı çeşitlerine ait taze ve güneşte kurutulmuş meyve örneklerindeki fenolik madde miktarlarının karşılaştırılması amacıyla yürütülmüştür. Bu amaçla ‘Çataloğlu’, ‘Çöloğlu’, ‘Hacıhaliloğlu’ ve ‘Kabaaşı’ çeşitlerine ait ağaçlardan meyve örnekleri alınmış, bir kısmı -25°C’de muhafaza edilmiş bir kısmı ise doğrudan güneşte kurutulmuştur. Elde edilen meyve örneklerinde p-kumarik asit, epikateşin, ferulik asit, kafeik asit, klorojenik asit ve rutin (µg/g kuru madde) içerikleri yüksek performanslı sıvı kromotografisi (HPLC) ile UV- DAD dedektörü kullanılarak tespit edilmiştir. İncelenen fenolik bileşikler arasında en yüksek miktarlar rutin için tespit edilmiştir. Kayısı çeşitleri incelenen fenolik bileşikler istatistiksel açıdan önemli farklılıklar göstermiş ve en yüksek rutin değeri 88.7 µg/g kuru madde ile ‘Kabaaşı’ çeşidinde bulunurken en düşük değer ise 52.1 µg/g kuru madde ile ‘Çataloğlu’ çeşidinde tespit edilmiştir. Genel olarak taze meyve örnekleri daha yüksek miktarlar göstermiş olup tüm çeşitlerde kurutulan meyvelerde fenolik bileşikler açısından kayıp gözlenmiştir.
Equations of the Energy-Work Relation: Right and Wrong
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: February 2024

In classical mechanics, the energy of an object in motion is the form of energy that quantifies the work performed by the object due to its motion and mass. The energy is also transformed into sound energy, thermal energy including heat and light, and material deformation. This paper points out how to use the equations of motion to derive the energy-work equations.
Note for the Millennium Prize Problems
Authors: Vega Frank
Published: February 2024

The Riemann hypothesis and the $P$ versus $NP$ problem are two of the most important unsolved Millennium Prize Problems. Let $\Psi(n) = n \cdot \prod_{q \mid n} \left(1 + \frac{1}{q}\right)$ denote the Dedekind $\Psi$ function where $q \mid n$ means the prime $q$ divides $n$. Define, for $n \geq 3$; the ratio $R(n) = \frac{\Psi(n)}{n \cdot \log \log n}$ where $\log$ is the natural logarithm. Let $N_{n} = 2 \cdot \ldots \cdot q_{n}$ be the primorial of order $n$. We prove if the inequality $R(N_{n+1}) < R(N_{n})$ holds for all primes $q_{n}$ (greater than some threshold), then the Riemann hypothesis is true. In this note, we show that the previous inequality always holds for all large enough prime numbers. $P$ versus $NP$ is considered as one of the most fundamental open problems in computer science. This consists in knowing the answer of the following question: Is $P$ equal to $NP$? It was essentially mentioned in 1955 from a letter written by John Nash to the United States National Security Agency. However, a precise statement of the $P$ versus $NP$ problem was introduced independently by Stephen Cook and Leonid Levin. Since that date, all efforts to find a proof for this problem have failed. Another major complexity class is $NP$-complete. It is well-known that $P$ is equal to $NP$ under the assumption of the existence of a polynomial time algorithm for some $NP$-complete. We show that the Monotone Weighted Xor 2-satisfiability problem ($MWX2SAT$) is $NP$-complete and $P$ at the same time.
The role of mechanically sensitive ion channel Piezo1 in bone remodeling
Authors: Du Yugui , Xu Bowen , Li Quiying , Peng Chuhan , Yang Kai
Published: February 2024

Piezo1 (2010) was identified as a mechanically activated cation channel capable of sensing various physical forces, such as tension, osmotic pressure, and shear force. Piezo1 mediates mechanosensory transduction in different organs and tissues, including its role in maintaining bone homeostasis. This review aimed to summarize the function and possible mechanism of Piezo1 in the mechanical receptor cells in bone tissue. We found that it is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of bone diseases.
A guide for construction practitioners to integrate robotic systems in their construction applications
Authors: Prieto Samuel A. , Xu Xinghui , García de Soto Borja
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The use of robots can boost productivity and reduce costs in construction projects. However, choosing the right robotic platform for the right application can be challenging, costly, and time-consuming. This paper presents a guide for researchers and construction practitioners interested in using robotic systems.

Methods: A methodology covering the different aspects to be considered when it comes to a robotic platform, such as the framework (both hardware and software), the environment the robot is going to be operating, the level of supervision (i.e., autonomy) the robot requires, different hardware required on board (i.e., sensors and computers), and the control strategies and systems and communication network, is presented. The methodology is implemented with a practical application where a semi-autonomous robotic system is designed and developed with the simple goal of data collection on construction sites, making sure that all the steps covered in the methodology are addressed.

Results: The results show that the methodology is applicable to a wide range of solutions, with a focus on the development of the platform itself and not the final application.

Discussion: This guide is meant to assist in developing a flexible open platform that can be customized to the specific requirements needed.
An organic extract from ascidian Ciona robusta induces cytotoxic autophagy in human malignant cell lines
Authors: Gallo Alessandra , Penna Ylenia Maria , Russo Maria , Rosapane Marco , Tosti Elisabetta , Russo Gian Luigi
Published: February 2024

The last decades have seen an increase in the isolation and characterization of anticancer compounds derived from marine organisms, especially invertebrates, and their use in clinical trials. In this regard, ascidians, which are included in the subphylum Tunicata, represent successful examples with two drugs, Aplidine© and Yondelis© that reached the market as orphan drugs against several malignancies. Here, we report that an organic extract prepared from homogenized tissues of the Mediterranean ascidian Ciona robusta inhibited cell proliferation in HT-29, HepG2, and U2OS human cells with the former being the most sensitive to the extract (EC50 = 250 μg/mL). We demonstrated that the ascidian organic extract was not cytotoxic on HT-29 cells that were induced to differentiate with sodium butyrate, suggesting a preference for the mixture for the malignant phenotype. Finally, we report that cell death induced by the organic extract was mediated by the activation of a process of cytotoxic autophagy as a result of the increased expression of the LC3-II marker and number of autophagic vacuoles, which almost doubled in the treated HT-29 cells. In summary, although the detailed chemical composition of the Ciona robusta extract is still undetermined, our data suggest the presence of bioactive compounds possessing anticancer activity.
Modeling coastal inundation for adaptation to climate change at local scale: the case of Marche Region (central Italy)
Authors: Baldoni Agnese , Melito Lorenzo , Marini Francesco , Galassi Gaia , Giacomin Patrizia , Filomena Giorgio , Barbizzi Natalino , Lorenzoni Carlo , Brocchini Maurizio
Published: February 2024

Climate change is raising sea level rise and storminess effects on coastal systems, affecting the morphology of coastlines and impacting coastal communities and ecosystems. It is essential to gain information at an adequate scale to identify effective adaptation measures. This is of major importance in areas combining high vulnerability to climate change with high socio-economic development, like the Northern Adriatic coastal area. To this aim, in this work two different approaches have been applied to investigate inland penetration of sea water along the Marche Region: (a) a simple “bathtub” method applied to the entire Marche coastline, to highlight areas likely prone to intense inundation; (b) a more accurate numerical model applied to two test sites, to gain detailed knowledge of inundation perimeters. Both approaches have been applied with forcing conditions provided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the Copernicus Climate Change Service through the RCP8.5 emission scenario projected to 2070. Results showed that a 100-year return period sea storm would cause the inundation of beaches and infrastructures located along the coast, as well as affecting harbor facilities and urban areas. Information obtained with the model has been integrated in the Regional Plan for Adaptation to climate change to define specific adaptation measures.
Designing learning experiences on climate change for undergraduate students of different majors
Authors: Carrillo-Nieves Danay , Clarke-Crespo Emilio , Cervantes-Avilés Pabel , Cuevas-Cancino María , Vanoye-García Ana Y.
Published: February 2024

Education about climate change faces an evolution of the knowledge, and universities should respond with innovative learning processes. As facilitators can adapt to these changes, they will be able to improve learning experiences for students. In this work, learning experiences about climate change were evaluated in undergraduate students without engineering background, as function of the size of the group, duration of the course, gamification activities and technology and virtual tools experiences. The implementation of these activities in the intensive 5-week course focused on climate change education has revealed valuable insights into student motivation, attitude, knowledge acquisition, and engagement. Notably, students’ trust in information sources about climate change exhibited variations, with global organizations garnering higher confidence compared to local and personal sources. In a 15-week course exposed to virtual tools (e.g. escape room), the diagnostic test highlighted a 53% understanding level, particularly challenging in numeric aspects. However, the escape room significantly improved results in the final exam, demonstrating a 93% correctness rate, emphasizing the effectiveness of the activities in reinforcing key climate change concepts. On the other hand, the emergence of climate change-themed escape room as an engagement tool demonstrated its potential in enhancing knowledge acquisition and cooperative learning. In addition, Escape room offered an immersive environment that encourages active participation, enabling students to grasp complex climate concepts and solutions more effectively. The study underscores that climate education should go beyond facts, emphasizing universities’ crucial role in nurturing the “climate change generation” with the knowledge and motivation for meaningful contributions to climate action and policy formulation.
Effects of an intervention on emotional and cognitive engagement in teacher education: scientific practices concerning greenhouse gases
Authors: López-Banet Luisa , Martínez-Carmona Marina , Reis Pedro
Published: February 2024

Recent studies advise teachers of the need to become aware of the importance of linking the cognitive and affective in learning. During initial training, teaching approaches linked to scientific practices of inquiry and modeling can increase the emotions experienced in the teaching–learning process and encourage teachers to reflect and be aware of how they learn. This research focused on considering that scientific practices should include the environmental problems that society faces today. Thus, activities were contextualized with a theme of economic, scientific and environmental repercussions. Moreover, it promoted awareness about the important role that different scientists have played in the advancement of knowledge about the greenhouse effect and its consequences. The main objective of this research was to allow trainee teachers to become conscious of how they learn content and their relationship with the emotions experienced. The instructional sequence consisted of a set of activities (inquiry, modeling, argumentation), based on the effects of certain chemical substances responsible for the greenhouse effect, focused on promoting the active participation of students. After completion of the instructional sequence, perceptions of pre-service teachers concerning their own learning after the instruction were analyzed. The results evidenced that self-perception of learning and emotions were directly correlated. The emotions experienced during the training appeared to influence the perceptions of the activities and, consequently, their perspectives when deciding whether or not to implement such activities in the future.
Probiotic co-supplementation with absorbent smectite for pancreatic beta-cell function in type 2 diabetes: a secondary-data analysis of a randomized double-blind controlled trials
Authors: Savytska Maryana , Kyriienko Dmytro , Zaychenko Ganna , Ostapchenko Danylo , Falalyeyeva Tetyana , Kobyliak Nazarii
Published: February 2024

Introduction

There is growing evidence from animal and clinical studies suggesting probiotics can positively affect type 2 diabetes (T2D). In a previous randomized clinical study, we found that administering a live multistrain probiotic and absorbent smectite once a day for eight weeks to patients with T2D could reduce chronic systemic inflammatory state, insulin resistance, waist circumference and improve the glycemic profile. However, there is a lack of evidence supporting the efficacy of probiotic co-supplementation with absorbent smectite on pancreatic β-cell function in T2D.

Aim

This secondary analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of an alive multistrain probiotic co-supplementation with absorbent smectite vs placebo on β-cell function in T2D patients.

Material and methods

We performed a secondary analysis on a previously published randomized controlled trial (NCT04293731, NCT03614039) involving 46 patients with T2D. The main inclusion criteria were the presence of β-cell dysfunction (%B<60%) and insulin therapy alone or combined with oral anti-diabetic drugs. The primary outcome was assessing β-cell function as change C-peptide and %B.

Results

We observed only a tendency for improving β-cell function (44.22 ± 12.80 vs 55.69 ± 25.75; р=0.094). The effectiveness of the therapy probiotic-smectite group was confirmed by fasting glycemia decreased by 14% (p=0.019), HbA1c – 5% (p=0.007), HOMA-2 – 17% (p=0.003) and increase of insulin sensitivity by 23% (p=0.005). Analysis of the cytokine profile showed that statistical differences after treatment were in the concentration of both pro-inflammatory cytokines: IL-1β (22.83 ± 9.04 vs 19.03 ± 5.57; p=0.045) and TNF-α (31.25 ± 11.32 vs 26.23 ± 10.13; p=0.041).

Conclusion

Adding a live multistrain probiotic and absorbent smectite supplement slightly improved β-cell function and reduced glycemic-related parameters in patients with T2D. This suggests that adjusting the gut microbiota could be a promising treatment for diabetes and warrants further investigation through more extensive studies.
Popularization of cars, penetration of electric vehicles, and energy consumption of Chinese households
Authors: Yin Siyuan
Published: February 2024

Based on survey data from Chinese households, this study uses a fixed effects model to examine the impact of car ownership on household energy consumption. The results show that car purchases lead to a significant 46% increase in household energy consumption costs. Purchasing cars leads to a 108% increase in household transportation expenditure (including gasoline expenditure), showing a significant direct effect, while heating costs increase by 17.1%, 12.0%, and 23.3%, respectively, representing an indirect effect. Furthermore, in regions with rapid EV growth, EVs have alleviated the promotion of cars in energy consumption, which is conducive to achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. This study helps provide measures to reduce future household energy consumption and promote the realization of carbon neutrality.
A runoff-based hydroelectricity prediction method based on meteorological similar days and XGBoost model
Authors: Wu Yang , Xie Yigong , Xu Fengjiao , Zhu Xinchun , Liu Shuangquan
Published: February 2024

This paper proposes a runoff-based hydroelectricity prediction method based on meteorological similar days and XGBoost model. Accurately predicting the hydroelectricity supply and demand is critical for conserving resources, ensuring power supply, and mitigating the impact of natural disasters. To achieve this, historical meteorological and runoff data are analyzed to select meteorological data that are similar to the current data, forming a meteorological similar day dataset. The XGBoost model is then trained and used to predict the meteorological similar day dataset and obtain hydroelectricity prediction results. To evaluate the proposed method, the hydroelectricity cluster in Yunnan, China, is used as sample data. The results show that the method exhibits high prediction accuracy and stability, providing an effective approach to hydroelectricity prediction. This study demonstrates the potential of using meteorological similar days and the XGBoost model for hydroelectricity prediction and highlights the importance of accurate hydroelectricity prediction for water resource management and electricity production.
A review of electrolyzer-based systems providing grid ancillary services: current status, market, challenges and future directions
Authors: Cozzolino Raffaello , Bella Gino
Published: February 2024

Concerns related to climate change have shifted global attention towards advanced, sustainable, and decarbonized energy systems. While renewable resources such as wind and solar energy offer environmentally friendly alternatives, their inherent variability and intermittency present significant challenges to grid stability and reliability. The integration of renewable energy sources requires innovative solutions to effectively balance supply and demand in the electricity grid. This review explores the critical role of electrolyzer systems in addressing these challenges by providing ancillary services to modern electricity grids. Electrolyzers traditionally used only for hydrogen production have now emerged as versatile tools capable of responding quickly to grid load variations. They can consume electricity during excess periods or when integrated with fuel cells generate electricity during peak demand, contributing to grid stability. Therefore, electrolyzer systems can fulfill the dual function of producing hydrogen for the end-user and offering grid balancing services, ensuring greater economic feasibility. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive view of the electrolyzer systems’ role in the provision of ancillary services, including frequency control, voltage control, congestion management, and black start. The technical aspects, market, projects, challenges, and future prospects of using electrolyzers to provide ancillary services in modern energy systems are explored.
Enhancing data-driven soil moisture modeling with physically-guided LSTM networks
Authors: Geng Qingtian , Yan Sen , Li Qingliang , Zhang Cheng
Published: February 2024

In recent years, deep learning methods have shown significant potential in soil moisture modeling. However, a prominent limitation of deep learning approaches has been the absence of physical mechanisms. To address this challenge, this study introduces two novel loss functions designed around physical mechanisms to guide deep learning models in capturing physical information within the data. These two loss functions are crafted to leverage the monotonic relationships between surface water variables and shallow soil moisture as well as deep soil water. Based on these physically-guided loss functions, two physically-guided Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, denoted as PHY-LSTM and PHYs-LSTM, are proposed. These networks are trained on the global ERA5-Land dataset, and the results indicate a notable performance improvement over traditional LSTM models. When used for global soil moisture forecasting for the upcoming day, PHY-LSTM and PHYs-LSTM models exhibit closely comparable results. In comparison to conventional data-driven LSTM models, both models display a substantial enhancement in various evaluation metrics. Specifically, PHYs-LSTM exhibits improvements in several key performance indicators: an increase of 13.6% in Kling-Gupta Efficiency (KGE), a 20.7% increase in Coefficient of Determination (R2), an 8.2% reduction in Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and a 4.4% increase in correlation coefficient (R). PHY-LSTM also demonstrates improvements, with a 14.8% increase in KGE, a 19.6% increase in R2, an 8.2% reduction in RMSE, and a 4.4% increase in R. Additionally, both models exhibit enhanced physical consistency over a wide geographical area. Experimental results strongly emphasize that the incorporation of physical mechanisms can significantly bolster the predictive capabilities of data-driven soil moisture models.
Efficacy and toxicity of immune checkpoint inhibitors combination therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Xiangyu , Xu Zhunan , Wu Changgui , Xie Lijun , Wang Pengyu , Liu Xiaoqiang
Published: February 2024

Background

Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show a significant overall survival advantage over standard advanced renal cell carcinoma (aRCC) therapies, tumor response to these agents remains poor. Some studies have shown that combination therapy including an ICI appears to be the best treatment; however, the overall benefit in terms of efficacy and toxicity still needs to be assessed. Thus, we performed a network meta-analysis to evaluate the differences in the efficacy of several combinations that include an ICI to provide a basis for clinical treatment selection.

Methods

We conducted a thorough search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for articles from January 2010 to June 2023. R 4.4.2 and STATA 16.0 were used to analyze data; hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to assess the results.

Results

An indirect comparison showed that nivolumab plus cabozantinib and pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib were the most effective treatments for progression-free survival (PFS), with no significant differences between the two interventions (HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.96–1.78; P=0.08); rank probability showed that pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib had a 57.1% chance of being the preferred treatment. In the absence of indirect comparisons between pembrolizumab plus axitinib, nivolumab plus ipilimumab, avelumab plus axitinib, nivolumab plus cabozantinib, and pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib, pembrolizumab plus axitinib (40.2%) was the best treatment option for overall survival (OS). Compared to pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib, nivolumab plus ipilimumab (OR, 0.07; 95% CI, 0.01–0.65; P=0.02) and pembrolizumab plus axitinib (OR, 0.05; 95% CI, 0.00–0.78; P<0.001) had a lower incidence of overall adverse events (AEs).

Conclusion

Pembrolizumab plus lenvatinib and pembrolizumab plus axitinib resulted in the highest PFS and OS rates, respectively. Pembrolizumab plus axitinib may be the best option when AEs are a concern.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/, identifier INPLASY202410078.
Correlation of blood-based immune molecules with cardiac gene expression profiles reveals insights into Chagas cardiomyopathy pathogenesis
Authors: Souza-Silva Thaiany G. , Neves Eula G. A. , Koh Carolina , Teixeira-Carvalho Andrea , Araújo Silvana Silva , Nunes Maria do Carmo Pereira , Gomes Juliana de Assis Silva , Gollob Kenneth J. , Dutra Walderez Ornelas
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Understanding compartmentalized immune responses in target organs is crucial for elucidating the pathogenesis of various diseases. However, obtaining samples from affected vital organs often poses safety challenges. In this study, we aimed to investigate potential correlations between the levels of disease-associated immune molecules in the bloodstream with their gene expression profiles in the hearts of patients suffering from Chagas Cardiomyopathy (CCC). This debilitating and often fatal condition is caused by infection with the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi.

Methods

Blood samples were analyzed using the Bio-Plex platform. Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to determine gene expression profile in heart tissue from CCC and non-Chagas controls (CTRL).

Results

Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines were detected in the plasma of CCC patients, and these levels correlated with clinical indicators of deteriorating cardiac function. Notably, 75% of the soluble factors assessed in the plasma exhibited a consistent relationship with their gene expression levels in the cardiac tissue of CCC patients. Analysis of interactions and signaling pathways related to these molecules revealed an overrepresentation of inflammatory pathways in both blood and heart compartments. Moreover, we identified that differentially expressed genes in CCC cardiac tissue were primarily associated with T-cell signaling pathways and correlated with the presence of CD8+ T cells in the myocardium.

Discussion

Our findings establish a strong correlation between relevant immune molecules and their signaling pathways in both the blood and heart tissue in CCC. This validates the use of blood as a non-invasive medium for understanding immunopathology and identifying markers for cardiac dysfunction in Chagas disease.