bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning-Based Prediction of NPSH, Noise, and Vibration Levels in Radial Pumps Under Cavitation Conditions
Authors: ORHAN Nuri , KURT Mehmet , KIRILMAZ Hasan , ERTUĞRUL Murat
Published: March 2024

Cavitation, a physical phenomenon that detrimentally affects pump performance and reduces pump life, can cause wear on pump elements. Various engineering methods have been developed to identify the initiation and full development of the cavitation process. One such method is the determination of the net positive suction head (NPSH) through a 3% decrease in total head (Hm) at a constant flow rate. In radial pumps, commonly used in agricultural irrigation and industry, cavitation conditions result in a sudden drop in the Hm-Q curve, making it challenging to detect the 3% Hm value drop. This study differs from others in the literature by modelling NPSH, noise, and vibration levels using three machine learning models, specifically artificial neural networks (ANN), support vector machines (SVM), and decision tree regression (DTR). The best-performing model predicts NPSH, noise, and vibration levels corresponding to a 3% decrease in Hm level. The present study determined the NPSH values of a horizontal shaft centrifugal pump at different flow rates and constant operating speed, and the vibration and noise levels were measured for these NPSH values. For each of the NPSH, noise, and vibration levels, ANN, SVM and DTR models were created. The performances of these models were evaluated using criteria such as root mean squared error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). In addition, Taylor and error box diagrams were created. The ANN model and DTR yielded high accuracy predictions for NPSH values (R2 = 0.86 and R2 = 0.8, respectively). The ANN model provided the best prediction performance for noise and vibration levels. By entering the level of 3% drop in the Hm value of the pump as external data input to the ANN model, NPSH3, noise, and vibration levels were determined. The ANN models can be effectively employed to determine NPSH3, noise, and vibration levels, particularly in radial flow pumps, where detecting 3% reductions in manometric height value is challenging.
Optimization of Cellulose Extraction Parameters and Production of Nanocellulose from Black Carrot Juice Wastes
Authors: HAYATİOĞLU Nergiz , TEKİN İdil , ERSUS Seda
Published: March 2024

Agricultural wastes are abundant worldwide with increased production and consumption activities as a result of human population growth. Waste recycling processes, which are important to support sustainable production, remain popular due to the increasing amount of agricultural waste. In particular, there are various studies on the recovery of valuable components from waste. In this context, the recovery of cellulose and nanocellulose from waste, which has the potential to be used and applied in many sectors, especially in food, draws attention. Although black carrot juice waste, which is one of the important agricultural wastes, is frequently used in the production of natural colorants, it was used for the production of cellulose and nanocellulose in this study due to its high cellulose content. Response Surface Method-Central Composite Design was used to improve the alkaline extraction conditions of cellulose for the optimum yield and whiteness index by using process parameters of NaOH concentration (2–12%), process temperature (25–110 °C), and time (60–240 min). The optimum process parameters were determined as the NaOH concentration (7.06%), process temperature (44.83°C), and time (114.21 min) for alkaline extraction of cellulose from black carrot juice waste where the yield of cellulose was 22.90±2.48%, and whiteness index was 60.32±0.07%. Nanocellulose was produced from cellulose obtained from black carrot juice waste by acidic hydrolysis using 25% H2SO4. Nanocellulose yield and whiteness index were found as 15.76±0.16% and 58.77±0.26% respectively. The average diameter (61±2.89 nm) and length (281±18.50 nm) of the nanocellulose were determined by Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). As a result of the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, it was determined that non-cellulosic components were removed.
STRATEGI KOMUNIKASI PEMBELAJARAN DAN PENGARUHNYA TERHADAP KUALITAS BELAJAR SISWA DI MASA PANDEMI
Authors: Labib Hunaidah
Published: March 2024

AbstactThe study aims to identify and find out (1) learning strategies that best used at the secondary education level during the pandemic (2) factors that influence the learning quality and (3) correlation and significance of communication in learning.Fatigue, boredom and passivity lead to students' less attention and focus during the learning process. Online-based learning has reduced active communication between teachers and students who, some of them, might just be listeners or just access the digital-based learning media without watching the video presentation. The situation challenges teachers to be more creative in identifying the best strategy to ensure good quality of learning.The study used the survey method and quantitative description. 5 percent out of total 100 students were done with random sampling. Observation and questionnaire distribution are instruments of data collection. The data was later analized using product-moment correlation (rxy) test and significance test with k-2 degree of freedom 78.The study concludes that there are correlation and significance between teachers' communication strategy and students' learning quality with the t-count result 10,3284 more than the t-table result 1,66462 and based on the KD test, iy was found that a value of 57,76% means that there is a contribution of variable X and Variable Y while 42,24 is influenced by other factors. Â Keywords: Strategy, Learning Communication, Learning Quality, Influence of Teachers' Communication on learning.
ANALISIS PENGARUH PROFITABILITAS, UKURAN PERUSAHAAN, LEVERAGE, LIKUIDITAS, DAN PERTUMBUHAN TERHADAP KEBIJAKAN DIVIDEN
Authors: Miswanto Miswanto , Qorry Fatona Arifa , Diana Nur
Published: March 2024

Â Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menguji pengaruh profitabilitas, ukuran perusahaan, leverage, likuiditas, dan pertumbuhan terhadap kebijakan dividen. Data yang digunakan dalam objek penelitian ini adalah perusahaan manufaktur subsektor barang konsumsi yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia (BEI) selama periode 2016-2019. Penelitian ini menggunakan data sekunder melalui laporan keuangan perusahaan 25 perusahaan. Teknik pemilihan sampel adalah purposive sampling dan pengujian hipotesisnya menggunakan regresi berganda data panel. Pada penelitian ini menggunakan variabel independen profitabilitas, ukuran perusahaan, leverage, likuiditas, dan pertumbuhan. Variabel dependen yang digunakan adalah kebijakan dividen. Temuan penelitian ini bahwa leverage dan pertumbuhan memiliki pengaruh negatif terhadap kebijakan dividen. Profitabilitas, ukuran perusahaan dan likuiditas tidak berpengaruh terhadap kebijakan dividen.Kata Kunci:Â  profitabilitas, ukuran perusahaan, leverage, likuiditas, pertumbuhan, kebijakan dividenÂ This study aims to determine and examine the effect of profitability, firm size, leverage, liquidity, and growth on dividend policy. The data used in this research object are consumer goods manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during the 2016-2019 period. This study uses secondary data through the financial statements of 25 companies. The sample selection technique is purposive sampling and hypothesis testing using multiple regression panel data. This study uses the independent variables of profitability, firm size, leverage, liquidity, and growth. The dependent variable used is dividend policy. The findings of this study are that leverage and growth have a negative effect on dividend policy. Profitability, firm size, and liquidity have no effect on dividend policy.Keywords:Â  profitability, firm size, leverage, liquidity, growth, dividend policy
Metabolomics captures the differential metabolites in the replication pathway of snakehead vesiculovirus regulated by glutamine
Authors: Sun B , Zhang Y , Chen K , Sun L
Published: March 2024

Snakehead vesiculovirus (SHVV) is a negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus that infects snakehead fish. This virus leads to illness and mortality, causing significant economic losses in the snakehead aquaculture industry. The replication and spread of SHVV in cells, which requires glutamine as a nitrogen source, is accompanied by alterations in intracellular metabolites. However, the metabolic mechanisms underlying the inhibition of viral replication by glutamine deficiency are poorly understood. This study utilized liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to measure the differential metabolites between the channel catfish Parasilurus asotus ovary cell line infected with SHVV under glutamine-containing and glutamine-deprived conditions. Results showed that the absence of glutamine regulated 4 distinct metabolic pathways and influenced 9 differential metabolites. The differential metabolites PS(16:0/16:0), 5,10-methylene-THF, and PS(18:0/18:1(9Z)) were involved in amino acid metabolism. In the nuclear metabolism functional pathway, differential metabolites of guanosine were observed. In the carbohydrate metabolism pathway, differential metabolites of UDP-d-galacturonate were detected. In the signal transduction pathway, differential metabolites of SM(d18:1/20:0), SM(d18:1/22:1(13Z)), SM(d18:1/24:1(15 Z)), and sphinganine were found. Among them, PS(18:0/18:1(9Z)), PS(16:0/16:0), and UDP-d-galacturonate were involved in the synthesis of phosphatidylserine and glycoprotein. The compound 5,10-methylene-THF provided raw materials for virus replication, and guanosine and sphingosine are related to virus virulence. The differential metabolites may collectively participate in the replication, packaging, and proliferation of SHVV under glutamine deficiency. This study provides new insights and potential metabolic targets for combating SHVV infection in aquaculture through metabolomics approaches.
The use of biological and computational tools to design, screen and synthesize new inhibitors of β-N-acetylglucosaminyl transferase
Authors:   , Balsollier Cyril
Published: March 2024

O-GlcNAcylation is a post-translational modification occurring inside the cell on Serine and threonine residues of proteins. These amino acids are modified on their hydroxyl function through the attachment of a β-N-acetylglucosamine moiety. It is regulated by two enzymes O-GlcNAc Transferase (OGT) that adds the GlcNAc Moeity on the protein and O-GlcNAcase (OGA). O-GlcNAcylation is involved in multiple biological processes due to the large amount of protein modified and its dysregulation has been flagged as an important step in degeneratve diseases such as cancer, diabetes…

As a key part of the O-GlcNAcylation process, OGT is a potential therapeutic target and its inhibition will possibly enable new treatments for degenerative diseases. In this study, we are investigating now way to discover and assess new OGT inhibitors. After implementing an assay to test ligands, we worked on different angles to improve existing or discover new OGT inhibitors. The use of computational tools like scaffold hopping allowed us to point that 6 member ring was needed to mimic uridine interaction with OGT. In our last chapter we report the discovery of two new families of OGT inhibitors using a new screening tool: DNA encode library. The synthesis of small libraries of these family coupled with our bioassay and molecular modeling showed that these two new families are binding to OGT through a different mechanism than the reported inhibitors.
Peran Kepolisian Negara Republik Indonesia dalam Menjalankan Misi Perdamaian Perserikatan Bangsa-Bangsa di Sudan Selatan
Authors: Rianto Agus , Purwanti Evi , Bangun Budi Hermawan , Erwin  , Kinanti Fatma Muthia
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini membahas peran Kepolisian Negara Republik Indonesia dalam menjalankan Misi Perdamaian Perserikatan Bangsa-Bangsa di Sudan Selatan. Bentuk penelitian ini adalah penelitian hukum normatif yang dilakukan dengan cara meneliti bahan pustaka sebagai data sekunder dengan pendekatan konseptual. Dari hasil penelitian atau pembahasan dapat diketahui yaitu bahwa peran Polri dalam mendukung pelaksanaan tugas misi perdamaian PBB di Sudan Selatan dilakukan dengan pengiriman sejumlah personil Polri baik sebagai Individual Police Officer (IPO) maupun Satuan Tugas Formed Police Unit (FPU) Polri yang dikenal sebagai Kontingen Garuda Bhayangkara (Kongabha). Kongabha yang ditugaskan ke Sudan Selatan ini tergabung dalam United Nations Mission in the Republic of South Sudan (UNMISS) dan berkontribusi dalam pelaksanaan mandat UNMISS sebagaimana telah ditetapkan dalam Resolusi DK PBB No. 2155 (2014); Resolusi DK PBB No. 2223 (2015); dan Resolusi DK PBB No. 2252 (2015). Selain melaksanakan tugas pokok sebagaimana mandat UNMISS sebagai pasukan penjaga perdamaian, Satgas FPU Polri juga melakukan kegiatan sosial atau amal dengan izin dari pihak UNMISS. Keberhasilan peran Satgas FPU Polri pada UNMISS dalam tugas misi perdamaian di Sudan Selatan ditandai terutama dengan melindungi pengungsi di kamp sehingga hal ini dapat lebih memaksimalkan perlindungan bagi warga sipil.
DESIGN OF RICE HUSK ROTARY DRYER USING WASTE HEAT ELECTROSTATIC PRECIPITATOR OF THE CEMENT INDUSTRY
Authors: ASTI DESI FITRIYANI  , RATU FENNY MULDIANI  , SRI WURYANTI
Published: March 2024

ESP or electrostatic precipitator is a device used to capture particulate matter, such as dust, in exhaust gases using electrostatic principles. In the cement industry, ESP is commonly placed after the clinker cooler to clean the exhaust air from the cooling process, ensuring it is free from clinker dust. The clinker cooler is a device that cools down the clinker using air, reducing its temperature from an initial temperature of around 1450°C to approximately 100°C - 120°C. The exhaust air from the clinker cooler is then passed through the ESP at temperatures ranging from around 237°C to 311°C. Based on the temperature data, the exhaust air from the ESP has the potential for heat reuse for other processes, including as a heat source for drying rice husk, which is a common alternative fuel used in the cement industry and typically has a moisture content of around 25%-37%. The results of this design indicate that the exhaust heat from the ESP, with an input temperature of 275°C, is capable of drying rice straw pellets from a moisture content of 25% to 14.73% using a designed rotary dryer with a capacity of 21.6 t/h, a length of 41.58 m, and a diameter of 2.92 m. It is constructed using ASTM 283 C material with a thickness of 8.76 mm and is insulated with a 15.6 mm thick layer of aluminum foil.
ASPHYDROXEL: ASPHALT CARBON DIOXIDE CAPTURE BY SYNTHESIS OF POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE FOR UTILIZATION OF PALM OIL BUNCH ASH WASTE
Authors: Sihombing Rony
Published: March 2024

Environmental pollution is the most common problem faced by Indonesia, for example, industrial waste. The country of Indonesia once occupied the first position in Southeast Asia, as a country with the worst air quality. In addition, Indonesia is the largest producer of crude palm oil (CPO) and palm oil plantations in the world. The industry produces the most solid waste in the form of empty palm oil bunches and requires a large area to store it. In order to reduce the storage area needed, empty palm oil bunches are burned to ashes or palm oil fuel ash (POFA). Therefore, we have the idea of absorbing CO2 gas and utilizing POFA as a mixture of concrete and asphalt, by converting it into a potassium chloride compound. Then, the electrolysis process is carried out to produce potassium hydroxide compounds. The potassium hydroxide compound will later be mixed with asphalt to produce Asphydroxel asphalt, which absorbs carbon dioxide. In implementing Asphydroxel, several parties are involved, such as oil palm smallholders, palm oil mills, asphalt company research teams, asphalt companies, and the government. It is predicte that this idea will prevent the buildup of bunch ash waste and air pollution which cause climate change
UKURAN PERUSAHAAN MEMODERASI FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors: Sri Ayem  , Violieta Annisa Titania
Published: March 2024

This study aims to examine the effect of capital intensity, real earnings management and political connections on tax avoidance with company size as a moderating variable. This study uses a population of property and real estate sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The data in this study are secondary data obtained from the company's annual financial statements in 2020 - 2022. The sampling method uses purposive sampling technique, the population that will be used as a research sample is a population that meets certain criteria. The sample of companies that met the research criteria was 28 companies. The outlier data is 10 financial statement data. This study uses multiple linear regression analysis models and Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA) analysis with the SPSS version 25 program. The results showed that capital intensity and political connections have a negative effect on tax avoidance. While real earnings management has a positive effect on tax avoidance. Company size cannot weaken the influence of capital intensity, real earnings management and political connections on tax avoidance.
ANALISIS PENYELENGGARAAN SISTEM INFORMASI PEMERINTAHAN DAERAH KOTA MAKASSAR SEBAGAI UPAYA PEMBERANTASAN TINDAK PIDANA KORUPSI
Authors: Haeranah Haeranah
Published: March 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji penyelenggaraan Sistem Informasi Pemerintahan Daerah (SIPD) dan urgensinya sebagai upaya pemberantasan tindak pidana korupsi pada pemerintah di Kota Makassar. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif yang mengkaji penyelenggaran Sistem Informasi Pembangunan Daerah melalui library research. Data dikumpulkan dari hasil dokumentasi berupa jurnal, laporan penelitian, dan dokumen pemerintah terkait penyelenggaran Sistem Informasi Pembangunan Daerah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan banyak hal yang masih harus diperbaiki dalam penyempurnaan SIPD sebagai aplikasi umum di tingkat daerah, seperti: 1) penyelarasan regulasi dan kebijakan, 2) sinkronisasi muatan data dan informasi antar level Pemerintahan Daerah (Kabupaten/Kota/Provinsi) dan antara Pemerintah Daerah dengan Pemerintah Pusat; 3) proses bisnis perencanaan, penganggaran, pelaksanaan, pemantauan, pelaporan dan evaluasi di pemerintahan daerah.  daerah, Penyempurnaan SIPD ke depan tentunya harus selaras dengan Arsitektur SPBE Nasional, sehingga cita-cita menyelenggarakan Sistem Pemerintahan Berbasis Elektronik sebagai bagian dari upaya pencegahan korupsi dapat terwujud. Komitmen untuk setiap elemen negara diperlukan untuk meningkatkan pemahaman yang telah dibentuk sejauh ini. Integrasi keempat unsur tersebut dalam membentuk budaya antikorupsi dapat meningkatkan pemahaman dan perilaku anti korupsi.
Indonesia’s Economic Diplomacy to South Korea in Increasing Coffee Exports in 2016 – 2021
Authors: Pertiwi Dian , Darmastuti Shanti , Yudhono Raden Maisa
Published: March 2024

As a coffee-producing country, Indonesia needs help exporting its coffee to South Korea, which has high coffee consumption. It causes the value and volume of Indonesian coffee exports to fall below expectations. This research aims to discuss the export of Indonesian coffee to South Korea by using international trade theory and the concept of economic diplomacy. This study uses descriptive qualitative methods with primary data from semi-structured interviews, while secondary data is obtained from documents and literature related to data collection collected from January – April 2023. The results of this study are economic diplomacy carried out to maximize Indonesian coffee exports in 2016 – 2021, consisting of business matching, coffeeversation, the Seoul coffee expo and Seoul café show, and the role of government and private actors. These efforts significantly increased the value and volume of Indonesian coffee exports to South Korea the following year.
The Influence of Employee Creativity and Job Involvement on Competitive Advantage Mediated by Strategic Planning at PT Nesinak Industries
Authors: Usliani Usliani , Setyaningrum Retno Purwani
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the direct and indirect effects between the variables of employee creativity and job involvement variables mediated by strategic planning on competitive advantage. This research was conducted using a quantitative method approach. The sample used in this study was 90. Data collection was used by distributing questionnaires. The research results show that employee creativity (X1) has a positive influence on competitive advantage (Y) with a t-statistic value (5,570 > 1,96), work involvement (X2) has no influence on competitive advantage (Y) with a t-statistic value (1,685 < 1,96), strategic planning (Z) has no influence on competitive advantage (Y) with a t- statistic value (1,258 < 1,96), employee creativity (X1) has a significant influence on strategic planning (Z) with a t-statistic value (2,609 > 1,96), work involvement (X2) has a positive influence on strategic planning (Z) with a t-statistic value (5,934 > 1,96), employee creativity (X1) mediated by planning strategy (Z) has no influence on competitive advantage (Y) with a t-statistic value (0,937 < 1,96), work involvement (X2) mediated by strategic planning (Z) has no influence on competitive advantage (Y) with a t-statistic value (1,298 < 1,96).
The Influence of Prices and Promotions on Purchasing Decisions on Dine-in Services at McDonald’s Cideng, Central Jakarta
Authors: Putranto Ivan , Syamruddin Syamruddin , Eliyani Citra
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this research is to determine the effect of prices and promotions on customers' purchasing decisions for dine-in services at McDonald’s Cideng, Central Jakarta, both partially and simultaneously. The method used in this research is associative quantitative with a population of 37,500 customers taken as a sample of 100 respondents. The sampling technique uses a probability sampling method, namely accidental sampling. The data analysis techniques in this research are: simple linear regression analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and coefficient of determination analysis. Then hypothesis testing is the t test and f test. The results of this research are that price influences purchasing decisions, this can be seen from the t test with the calculated t value > t table or (10.084 > 1.660). This is also reinforced by the ρ value < Sig.0.05 or (0.000 < 0, 05). Promotions influence purchasing decisions this can be seen from the t test with the calculated t value > t table or (9.126 > 1.660). This is also reinforced by the ρ value < Sig.0.05 or (0.000 < 0.05). Price and promotions influence purchasing decisions, this can be seen from the results of the f test where F calculated > F table or (73.628 > 2.70), this is also reinforced by ρ value < Sig.0.05 or (0.000 < 0, 05).
Parallel evolution of gravity sensing
Authors: Romanova Daria Y. , Moroz Leonid L.
Published: March 2024

Omnipresent gravity affects all living organisms; it was a vital factor in the past and the current bottleneck for future space exploration. However, little is known about the evolution of gravity sensing and the comparative biology of gravity reception. Here, by tracing the parallel evolution of gravity sensing, we encounter situations when assemblies of homologous modules result in the emergence of non-homologous structures with similar systemic properties. This is a perfect example to study homoplasy at all levels of biological organization. Apart from numerous practical implementations for bioengineering and astrobiology, the diversity of gravity signaling presents unique reference paradigms to understand hierarchical homology transitions to the convergent evolution of integrative systems. Second, by comparing gravisensory systems in major superclades of basal metazoans (ctenophores, sponges, placozoans, cnidarians, and bilaterians), we illuminate parallel evolution and alternative solutions implemented by basal metazoans toward spatial orientation, focusing on gravitational sensitivity and locomotory integrative systems.
NEST3D printed bone-mimicking scaffolds: assessment of the effect of geometrical design on stiffness and angiogenic potential
Authors: Doyle Stephanie E. , Pannella Micaela , Onofrillo Carmine , Bellotti Chiara , Di Bella Claudia , O’Connell Cathal D. , Pirogova Elena , Lucarelli Enrico , Duchi Serena
Published: March 2024

Tissue-engineered implants for bone regeneration require consideration regarding their mineralization and vascularization capacity. Different geometries, such as biomimetic designs and lattices, can influence the mechanical properties and the vascularization capacity of bone-mimicking implants. Negative Embodied Sacrificial Template 3D (NEST3D) printing is a versatile technique across a wide range of materials that enables the production of bone-mimicking scaffolds. In this study, different scaffold motifs (logpile, Voronoi, and trabecular bone) were fabricated via NEST3D printing in polycaprolactone to determine the effect of geometrical design on stiffness (10.44 ± 6.71, 12.61 ± 5.71, and 25.93 ± 4.16 MPa, respectively) and vascularization. The same designs, in a polycaprolactone scaffold only, or when combined with gelatin methacryloyl, were then assessed for their ability to allow the infiltration of blood vessels in a chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, a cost-effective and time-efficient in ovo assay to assess vascularization. Our findings showed that gelatin methacrylolyl alone did not allow new chorioallantoic membrane tissue or blood vessels to infiltrate within its structure. However, polycaprolactone on its own or when combined with gelatin methacrylolyl allowed tissue and vessel infiltration in all scaffold designs. The trabecular bone design showed the greatest mineralized matrix production over the three designs tested. This reinforces our hypothesis that both biomaterial choice and scaffold motifs are crucial components for a bone-mimicking scaffold.
Epistemological beliefs and classroom practices of experienced physics teachers: are they related?
Authors: Sengul Ozden
Published: March 2024

There is a need in teacher education to explore experienced physics teachers' domain-general epistemological beliefs and classroom practices. The study reports 30 experienced physics teachers' epistemological beliefs and classroom practices in Turkish public high school context. The data was collected through interviews and classroom observations. During the analysis, qualitative data was analyzed through constant comparative method. Level and frequency of participants' epistemological beliefs and classroom practices were quantified for descriptive statistics. The results indicated that most teachers held transitional epistemological beliefs, but they taught in traditional ways. Their epistemological beliefs and classroom practices were not in alignment. These results showed that experienced teachers might have sophisticated epistemological beliefs, but they were not able to reflect their beliefs into practice according to their perception of students' expectations. The study provides implications for research for teacher learning and development through large-scale longitudinal studies and to understand the factors of misalignment between their beliefs and practices.
Associations of weight-adjusted-waist index and depression with secondary infertility
Authors: Sun Fei , Liu Min , Hu Shanshan , Xie Ruijie , Chen Huijuan , Sun Zhaona , Bi Huiya
Published: March 2024

Background

Obesity and psychological factors were identified as risk factors for female infertility. The study investigated the correlation between WWI, depression, and secondary infertility, focusing on the potential mediating role of depression.

Methods

According to the data from NHANES, this cross-sectional study used multiple regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and smooth curve fitting to explore the relationship between WWI, depression, and secondary infertility. The diagnostic ability of WWI was evaluated and compared to other obesity indicators using the ROC curve. The mediating effect test adopted the distribution of the product.

Results

This study involved 2778 participants, including 381 (13.7%) women with secondary infertility. Results showed that higher WWI (OR = 1.31; 95% CI, 1.11-1.56) and depression scores (OR = 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06) were associated with secondary infertility. There was a positive correlation between WWI and secondary infertility (nonlinear p = 0.8272) and this association was still consistent in subgroups (all P for interaction> 0.05). Compared with other obesity indicators, WWI (AUC = 0.588) also shows good predictive performance for secondary infertility. Mediation analysis showed that depression mediated the relationship between 3.94% of WWI and secondary infertility, with a confidence interval of Za * Zb excluding 0.

Conclusion

WWI exhibited a relatively good correlation in predicting secondary infertility than other obesity indicators, and depression may be a mediator between WWI and secondary infertility. Focusing on the potential mediating role of depression, the risk of secondary infertility due to obesity may be beneficially reduced in women.
Advances in research on the anti-tumor mechanism of Astragalus polysaccharides
Authors: Yang Qian , Meng Dandan , Zhang Qinyuan , Wang Jin
Published: March 2024

The dry root of the soybean plant Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch) Bge. var. mongholicus (Bge) Hsiao or A. membranaceus (Fisch) Bge, Astragali Radix (AR) has a long medicinal history. Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), the natural macromolecule that exhibits immune regulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and other pharmacological activities, is an important active ingredient extracted from AR. Recently, APS has been increasingly used in cancer therapy owing to its anti-tumor ability as it prevents the progression of prostate, liver, cervical, ovarian, and non-small-cell lung cancer by suppressing tumor cell growth and invasion and enhancing apoptosis. In addition, APS enhances the sensitivity of tumors to antineoplastic agents and improves the body’s immunity. This macromolecule has prospects for broad application in tumor therapy through various pathways. In this article, we present the latest progress in the research on the anti-tumor effects of APS and its underlying mechanisms, aiming to provide novel theoretical support and reference for its use in cancer therapy.
Validity and reliability of the Romanian version of the Hill-Bone compliance to high blood pressure therapy scale
Authors: Rusu Răzvan-Nicolae , Gavril Radu Sebastian , Ababei Daniela Carmen , Macadan Ioana , Ciobîcă Andrei , Nicolae Camelia , Popescu Răducu Ionuț , Bild Walther , Bild Veronica
Published: March 2024

Romania is considered a country with high cardiovascular risk, arterial hypertension and its complications accounting for about 60% of total deaths. The management of high blood pressure often involves a combination of both therapeutic regimens as well as lifestyle changes, to which patients have to be adherent. In order to assess patients adherence to professionals’ recommendations, validated tools are needed. The aim of our study was to translate, culturally adapt and validate the Hill-Bone Compliance to High Blood Pressure Therapy Scale into Romanian. The study included 215 participants from Iasi, North-Eastern Romania. The internal consistency of the instrument was measured with Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, while the construct validity was determined using exploratory factor analysis and principal component extraction with promax rotation. Sampling adequacy and appropriateness of data for factor analysis was measured using Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) statistics and Bartlett’s test of sphericity. Our statistical analysis revealed a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.733 (73.3%) and a Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) Measure of Sampling Adequacy of 0.697. The chi square test demonstrated that the overall perfect adherence was not significantly associated with the number of medications taken per day variable (p = 0.721). The Romanian version of the Hill-Bone Compliance to High Blood Pressure Therapy Scale demonstrated suitability for its use in evaluating adherence in the intended population.
Assessing the relative contribution of CYP3A-and P-gp-mediated pathways to the overall disposition and drug-drug interaction of dabigatran etexilate using a comprehensive mechanistic physiological-based pharmacokinetic model
Authors: Udomnilobol Udomsak , Dunkoksung Wilasinee , Sakares Watchara , Jianmongkol Suree , Prueksaritanont Thomayant
Published: March 2024

Dabigatran etexilate (DABE) is a clinical probe substrate for studying drug-drug interaction (DDI) through an intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp). A recent in vitro study, however, has suggested a potentially significant involvement of CYP3A-mediated oxidative metabolism of DABE and its intermediate monoester BIBR0951 in DDI following microdose administration of DABE. In this study, the relative significance of CYP3A- and P-gp-mediated pathways to the overall disposition of DABE has been explored using mechanistic physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling approach. The developed PBPK model linked DABE with its 2 intermediate (BIBR0951 and BIBR1087) and active (dabigatran, DAB) metabolites, and with all relevant drug-specific properties known to date included. The model was successfully qualified against several datasets of DABE single/multiple dose pharmacokinetics and DDIs with CYP3A/P-gp inhibitors. Simulations using the qualified model supported that the intestinal CYP3A-mediated oxidation of BIBR0951, and not the gut P-gp-mediated efflux of DABE, was a key contributing factor to an observed difference in the DDI magnitude following the micro-versus therapeutic doses of DABE with clarithromycin. Both the saturable CYP3A-mediated metabolism of BIBR0951 and the solubility-limited DABE absorption contributed to the relatively modest nonlinearity in DAB exposure observed with increasing doses of DABE. Furthermore, the results suggested a limited role of the gut P-gp, but an appreciable, albeit small, contribution of gut CYP3A in mediating the DDIs following the therapeutic dose of DABE with dual CYP3A/P-gp inhibitors. Thus, a possibility exists for a varying extent of CYP3A involvement when using DABE as a clinical probe in the DDI assessment, across DABE dose levels.
A mixture of mobility and meteorological data provides a high correlation with COVID-19 growth in an infection-naive population: a study for Spanish provinces
Authors: Conesa David , López de Rioja Víctor , Gullón Tania , Tauste Campo Adriá , Prats Clara , Alvarez-Lacalle Enrique , Echebarria Blas
Published: March 2024

Introduction

We use Spanish data from August 2020 to March 2021 as a natural experiment to analyze how a standardized measure of COVID-19 growth correlates with asymmetric meteorological and mobility situations in 48 Spanish provinces. The period of time is selected prior to vaccination so that the level of susceptibility was high, and during geographically asymmetric implementation of non-pharmacological interventions.

Methods

We develop reliable aggregated mobility data from different public sources and also compute the average meteorological time series of temperature, dew point, and UV radiance in each Spanish province from satellite data. We perform a dimensionality reduction of the data using principal component analysis and investigate univariate and multivariate correlations of mobility and meteorological data with COVID-19 growth.

Results

We find significant, but generally weak, univariate correlations for weekday aggregated mobility in some, but not all, provinces. On the other hand, principal component analysis shows that the different mobility time series can be properly reduced to three time series. A multivariate time-lagged canonical correlation analysis of the COVID-19 growth rate with these three time series reveals a highly significant correlation, with a median R-squared of 0.65. The univariate correlation between meteorological data and COVID-19 growth is generally not significant, but adding its two main principal components to the mobility multivariate analysis increases correlations significantly, reaching correlation coefficients between 0.6 and 0.98 in all provinces with a median R-squared of 0.85. This result is robust to different approaches in the reduction of dimensionality of the data series.

Discussion

Our results suggest an important effect of mobility on COVID-19 cases growth rate. This effect is generally not observed for meteorological variables, although in some Spanish provinces it can become relevant. The correlation between mobility and growth rate is maximal at a time delay of 2-3 weeks, which agrees well with the expected 5?10 day delays between infection, development of symptoms, and the detection/report of the case.
From waste to resource: demystifying the policy challenges and identifying opportunities for a circular economy in Zambia
Authors: Clube Rebecca K. M. , Hazemba Malonga
Published: March 2024

Policy plays a significant role in accelerating or hindering a circular shift; Governments can set long-term visions and drive legislative change to create an enabling environment. Reflecting the regional picture, Zambia is experiencing increasing waste burdens due to a growing population and economic development. The current management approach is linear, characterized by low collection rates, inadequate disposal, and limited waste revalorization. From a sustainable development perspective, how waste is managed impacts pressing issues such as climate change and public health. The concept of the Circular Economy (CE) has gained global and regional interest given its potential to transform how resources are viewed and managed. Circular strategies may help to reduce waste burdens and create local socioeconomic opportunities while safeguarding the environment. This qualitative study uses document review and expert interviews to explore the current waste management regime in Zambia and understand if and how circularity is embedded into the policy approach. The findings suggest that the CE is potentially highly relevant for Zambia, but there are various policy challenges that could impede its successful integration into the national agenda. These challenges relate to ownership and coordination; gaps in implementation and enforcement; a restrictive licensing approach; obstacles to innovation and new entrants; as well as the role of informal sector actors. The challenges point to opportunities to overturn these policy shortfalls, which also presents future research avenues.
Contact neuro-endoscopy-assisted cerebral hematoma evacuation under direct vision
Authors: Lu Na , Qiao Dong , Xue ChengJiang , Pang YeGuang
Published: March 2024

Neuro-endoscopic hematoma evacuation is a crucial therapeutic approach for intracerebral hemorrhage. Our research team has developed a portable and contact neuro-endoscopy technique to enhance the conventional endoscopy procedure. compared to traditional endoscopy, this innovative approach involves miniaturizing the lens, light source, and camera system. These components are integrated into a stainless steel tube with a diameter of 4 mm, referred to as the portable endoscopy in this study. The portable endoscopy is powered by a USB cable and the video is displayed on a tablet computer. This portable endoscope facilitates easier operation with both hands by a single surgeon.
High-Precision Position Tracking Control with a Hysteresis Observer Based on the Bouc–Wen Model for Smart Material-Actuated Systems
Authors: Zhao Jubo , Li Yaobin , Cao Yonggang , Zhang Fukai , Cui Ming , Xu Rui
Published: March 2024

The Bouc–Wen model has been widely adopted to describe hysteresis nonlinearity in many smart material-actuated systems, such as piezoelectric actuators, shape memory alloy actuators, and magnetorheological dampers. For effective control design, it is of interest to estimate the hysteresis state that is not measurable. In this paper, the design of a state observer for the Bouc–Wen model is presented. It is shown that, with sufficiently high observer gains, the state estimate error, including that for the hysteresis state, converges to zero exponentially fast. The utility of the proposed hysteresis observer is illustrated in the design of a high precision output-feedback position tracking controller, and the resulting tracking error is shown to decay exponentially via Lyapunov analysis. Simulation and experimental results show that the proposed hysteresis observer and the high precision position tracking controller outperform a traditional extended state observer and the corresponding tracking controller, respectively.
Effect of Mixing Intensity on Electrochemical Performance of Oxide/Sulfide Composite Electrolytes
Authors: Gerstenberg Jessica , Steckermeier Dominik , Kwade Arno , Michalowski Peter
Published: March 2024

Despite the variety of solid electrolytes available, no single solid electrolyte has been found that meets all the requirements of the successor technology of lithium-ion batteries in an optimum way. However, composite hybrid electrolytes that combine the desired properties such as high ionic conductivity or stability against lithium are promising. The addition of conductive oxide fillers to sulfide solid electrolytes has been reported to increase ionic conductivity and improve stability relative to the individual electrolytes, but the influence of the mixing process to create composite electrolytes has not been investigated. Here, we investigate Li3PS4 (LPS) and Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) composite electrolytes using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and distribution of relaxation times. The distinction between sulfide bulk and grain boundary polarization processes is possible with the methods used at temperatures below 10 °C. We propose lithium transport through the space-charge layer within the sulfide electrolyte, which increases the conductivity. With increasing mixing intensities in a high-energy ball mill, we show an overlay of the enhanced lithium-ion transport with the structural change of the sulfide matrix component, which increases the ionic conductivity of LPS from 4.1 × 10−5 S cm−1 to 1.7 × 10−4 S cm−1.
Bio-Inspired Magnetically Responsive Silicone Cilia: Fabrication Strategy and Interaction with Biological Mucus
Authors: Grein-Iankovski Aline , de Oliveira Braga Karina Andrighetti , Legendre Daniel Formariz , Cardoso Paulo Francisco Guerreiro , Loh Watson
Published: March 2024

Cilia are biological structures essential to drive the mobility of secretions and maintain the proper function of the respiratory airways. However, this motile self-cleaning process is significantly compromised in the presence of silicone tracheal prosthesis, leading to biofilm growth and impeding effective treatment. To address this challenge and enhance the performance of these devices, we propose the fabrication of magnetic silicone cilia, with the prospect of their integration onto silicone prostheses. The present study presents a fabrication method based on magnetic self-assembly and assesses the interaction behavior of the cilia array with biological mucus. This protocol allows for the customization of cilia dimensions across a wide range of aspect ratios (from 6 to 85) and array densities (from 10 to 80 cilia/mm2) by adjusting the fabrication parameters, offering flexibility for adjustments according to their required characteristics. Furthermore, we evaluated the suitability of different cilia arrays for biomedical applications by analyzing their interaction with bullfrog mucus, simulating the airways environment. Our findings demonstrate that the fabricated cilia are mechanically resistant to the viscous fluid and still exhibit controlled movement under the influence of an external moving magnet. A correlation between cilia dimensions and mucus wettability profile suggests a potential role in facilitating mucus depuration, paving the way for further advancements aimed at enhancing the performance of silicone prostheses in clinical settings.
Association of the rs1966265 and rs351855 FGFR4 Variants with Colorectal Cancer in a Mexican Population and Their Analysis In Silico
Authors: Carrillo-Dávila Irving Alejandro , Garibaldi-Ríos Asbiel Felipe , Figuera Luis E. , Gómez-Meda Belinda Claudia , Zúñiga-González Guillermo M. , Puebla-Pérez Ana María , García-Verdín Patricia Montserrat , Castro-García Paola Beatriz , Gutiérrez-Hurtado Itzae Adonai , Torres-Mendoza Blanca Miriam , Gallegos-Arreola Martha Patricia
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to associate FGFR4 rs1966265 and rs351855 variants with colorectal cancer (CRC) in a Mexican population and to perform in silico analysis. Genomic DNA from 412 healthy individuals and 475 CRC patients was analyzed. In silico analysis was performed using the PolyPhen-V2, GEPIA, GTEx, and Cytoscape platforms. The GA genotype dominant model (GAAA) of rs1966265 and the AA genotype dominant and recessive models of rs351855 were identified as CRC risk factors (p < 0.05). CRC patients aged ≥ 50 years at diagnosis who consumed alcohol had a higher incidence of the rs351855 GA genotype than the control group (p < 0.05). Associations were observed between the rs1966265 GA genotype and patients with rectal cancer and stage III–IV disease. The rs351855 AA genotype was a risk factor for partial chemotherapy response, and the GA + AA genotype for age ≥ 50 years at diagnosis and rectal cancer was associated with a partial response to chemotherapy (p < 0.05). The AA haplotype was associated with increased susceptibility to CRC. In silico analysis indicated that the rs351855 variant is likely pathogenic (score = 0.998). Genotypic expression analysis in blood samples showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). EFNA4, SLC3A2, and HNF1A share signaling pathways with FGFR4. Therefore, rs1966265 and rs351855 may be potential CRC risk factors.