bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APPLICATION OF DIGITAL DESIGN OF TOURISM CENTRE OF SENDURO IN BROMO - TENGGER - SEMERU NATIONAL PARK, INDONESIA
Authors: Oktafiana Brina , Tjandra Cynthia , Tanuwidjaja Gunawan , Wijaya Elvina Shanggrama , Adiasih Priskila
Published: August 2024

Instagram able places is a new trend before the Covid-19 pandemic. The theory of Instagram able places has not yet developed in the Architectural field. Several business-related studies have proposed the use of social media, especially Instagram, to attract tourists to attractions. However, Instagram's design approach is only used by creating new building structures that alienate local ecology and dim cultural values. The Senduro Tourism Centre is used as an example of using Instagram for sustainable design at the tourism gate of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The design of the Senduro Tourism Centre is carried out in such a way as to be able to move the economy of the tourism sector of Lumajang Regency in the pandemic era while maintaining the preservation of its natural and cultural assets to be sustainable. The Hindu-Sacred Profane (Tri-Mandala) zoning, and a sustainable design approach, are also used to ensure the sustainable tourism activities of Senduro. As a result, using digital design tools, we are able to process and present elements of the natural and cultural landscape in an attractive perspective through the design of the Senduro Tourism Centre scheme. In the future, Instagram's design approach can be used more sustainably in tourist attractions in Indonesia.
Agile Readiness Assessment of IT Audit Function at Indonesia’s State-Owned Bank
Authors: Dedi Kurniawan  , Raharjo Teguh , Nur Fitriani Anita
Published: August 2024

Recently, there has been increased interest in using Agile methodologies in auditing to improve efficiency and adaptability. This study examines whether Bank XYZ in Indonesia is ready to adopt Agile for IT auditing, marking a first for the country's banks. The need for Agile is driven by a significant reduction in audit staff, increased demands from management, and higher fraud risks, all of which call for a more effective and responsive audit process. The research employed both surveys based on the CA Agile Framework and qualitative analysis. It found that Bank XYZ is moderately ready to adopt Agile, showing strengths in commitment to user research, organizational culture, and training support. However, challenges such as utilizing past Agile experiences and enhancing governance must be addressed. The study recommends a gradual adoption of Agile, focusing on building a supportive Agile culture, enhancing training for auditors, and improving governance structures. This step-by-step approach will help Bank XYZ effectively integrate Agile into its IT auditing practices to better meet management's expectations for more business-focused auditing.
Key Success Factors of Knowledge Sharing Behavior among Software Developers in Indonesia
Authors: Ringgi Cahyo Dwiputra  , Ariq Naufal Satria  , Dana Indra Sensuse  , Sofian Lusa  , Damayanti Elisabeth
Published: August 2024

Knowledge sharing is a crucial element for enhancing efficiency in the software development process. However, it proves to be a challenging and complicated task in practice, particularly due to the insufficient knowledge and experience of software developers. The aim of this research is to pinpoint key success factors in knowledge sharing behavior among software developers. Based on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), the research divides components into three categories: behavioral, environmental, and personal. For a more complete picture, an additional organizational aspect is included. The partial least squares structural equation model was utilized to analyze the data collected from 198 software developers in Indonesia. The findings reveal that motivation, trust, social interaction, organizational culture, reward, and management support positively influence knowledge sharing behavior, while geographical distance has a negative impact. This research contributes by filling a gap in previous research that utilized SCT, broadening the model to identify determinant factors explaining knowledge sharing behavior within an organizational context.
Analisis Dinamika Komunitas Warganet Twitter Terkait Diskusi Agama Islam Tahun 2009-2019
Authors: Fillah Arjuna Ahmad Salik , Nur Inayah  , Taufik Edy Sutanto
Published: August 2024

Twitter, sebagai media sosial yang populer di Indonesia, menjadi platform bagi pengguna untuk membentuk komunitas dan berbagi informasi, termasuk tentang Agama Islam. Opini yang timbul melalui platform ini mampu mengubah persepsi tentang ajaran dan praktik Agama Islam di Indonesia. Penelitian ini bertujuan memahami struktur dan evolusi komunitas Agama Islam di Twitter melalui analisis dinamika komunitas selama 2009-2019. Data diubah menjadi jaringan berbentuk graf dan dianalisis menggunakan dua metode deteksi komunitas: Louvain dan Leiden. Analisis konten seperti n-gram, hashtag, dan word cloud diterapkan untuk mengidentifikasi topik dari 3 komunitas terbesar. Leiden terbukti menghasilkan nilai rata-rata modularitas yang lebih tinggi: 0,837, dibanding dengan Louvain: 0,833. Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan mendalam mengenai dinamika komunitas dan topik diskusi Agama Islam di Indonesia di media sosial, yang dapat menjadi dasar bagi pengambil kebijakan dan akademisi dalam mengelola isu-isu sosial dan keagamaan.
The Design of Information Technology Risk Management of The Secretariat of The Cabinet of The Republic of Indonesia
Authors: Budiman Wahyu Arief , Wirani Yekti , Sucahyo Yudho Giri
Published: August 2024

The Cabinet Secretariat of the Republic of Indonesia (Setkab) as a government institution that is responsible for managing cabinet management needs to implement information technology risk management effectively. In line with the Regulation of the Minister for Empowerment of State Apparatus and Bureaucratic Reform (PermenPAN RB) number 5 of 2020 concerning Guidelines for Risk Management of Electronic-Based Government Systems (SPBE), it is necessary to have a design for handling information technology risks. However, Setkab has not yet implemented information technology risk management, resulting in information technology-related risks are not being identified. This study aims to develop a design for information technology risk management that is suitable for the needs and context of Setkab. The method used in the study is qualitative, collecting data through interviews, document analysis, and observation of information technology risks in the Setkab environment. Data analysis uses thematic analysis method. In developing the design for information technology risk management for Setkab, ISO 31000:2018 standard will be used as the main framework, then referring to ISO/IEC 27005:2022, as guidelines for risk assessment and risk treatment activities, and ISO/IEC 27002:2022 as the information security control reference. This research found 340 risk scenarios, 93 of which needed to be mitigated and 247 risks were acceptable. This research produced a risk management design using a combination of ISO 31000:2018 as a general guide for the risk management framework, ISO/IEC 27005:2022 for guidelines on the information technology risk management process, and ISO/IEC 27002:2022 for determining recommendations for risk treatment controls that is expected to help Setkab manage information technology risks systematically.
Blood Cancer Identification on Peripheral Blood Smear (PBS) Images Using HSV Feature Extraction
Authors: Nozomi Irohito , Aldi Febri
Published: August 2024

Blood cancer is a category of diseases that have an impact on the development and operation of blood cells. Due to the complexity and diversity of these diseases, proper diagnosis is required before starting treatment. Medical imaging techniques have undergone significant advances in recent years, especially in peripheral blood smear (PBS) image processing. The aim of this study was to uncover how important the extraction of PBS image features is for the diagnosis of blood cancer. Feature extraction is essential to detect anomalies in blood cells in terms of blood cancer detection. The method used is feature extraction based on hue and saturation values (HSV) and uses Machine Support Vector Machine (SVM) machine learning algorithms in classifying malignant and benign PBS images. PBS image data used in this study was 100 images, consisting of 50 malignant PBS images, and 50 benign PBS images. Through the application of HSV feature extraction techniques and PBS image analysis, SVM algorithms can uncover latent indicators of blood cancer and facilitate timely and precise diagnosis. With the SVM technique, classification accuracy can be achieved by 92%. These results demonstrate the potential effectiveness of this feature extraction method. Extraction of HSV features may alter the diagnosis of blood cancer with additional research and application in clinical settings.
A New Modeling Approach and Comprehensive Monitoring of Electrical Faults Through Spectral Analysis in DSIM
Authors: Chekkal Ait Ouaret Samira , Imaouchen Yacine , Aouzellag Djamal , Ghedamsi Kaci
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study is to evaluate the dependability of double-star induction machines by employing meticulous monitoring and intelligent handling of potential electrical malfunctions that may arise during their functioning. Specifically, the research delves into the examination of three distinct fault types: rotor bar breakage, stator phase opening, and inter-turn short circuit. Utilizing a mathematical model developed in the natural reference frame (abc), our aim is to comprehensively delineate both normal and faulty operational scenarios. To categorize and gauge the gravity of identified faults, we employ a methodology rooted in spectral analysis. In order to ensure continuous machine operation, especially in instances of stator phase opening, our proposed mitigation approach entails intentionally opening a secondary phase positioned at a 90-degree angle to the faulty phase. This strategic alteration transforms the machine into a dual two-phase configuration. Through rigorous simulation analyses, our findings underscore the efficacy and pragmatic viability of the devised fault detection technique, offering valuable insights into the domain of electrical machine reliability and fault management.
Implementasi Kebijakan Kartu Pedagang Produktif (KPP) di Kabupaten Bojonegoro
Authors: Daniar Syadwina , Anisyukurlillah Rosyidatuzzahro , Hidayat Endik
Published: August 2024

One of the main problems of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Bojonegoro Regency is limited capital and high loan interest rates. So, there is a need for a program to help MSME players. The Productive Trader Card (KPP) is a flagship program from Bojonegoro Regency designed to support and develop MSMEs. This research aims to find out how the implementation of the Productive Trader Card (KPP) policy at the Bojonegoro Regency Trade, Cooperatives and Micro Business Office. This research uses qualitative research methods with descriptive research type. The theory used is the theory of policy implementation from Van Meter and Van Horn, with six indicators, namely policy objectives and standards, policy resources, inter-organizational relations, implementer characteristics, political environment, socio-economic, and attitudes of implementers. The result of this study is that the implementation of the Productive Trader Card (KPP) policy can be said to be successful because all indicators have been well implemented, but there are still shortcomings, namely the discovery of policy resource indicators, especially human resources and indicators of implementer characteristics in the implementation of the Productive Trader Card (KPP) policy which are still not running optimallySalah satu permasalahan utama pelaku Usaha Mikro, Kecil, dan Menengah (UMKM) di Kabupaten Bojonegoro yaitu keterbatasan modal dan bunga pinjaman yang tinggi. Maka, perlu adanya program untuk membantu para pelaku UMKM. Kartu Pedagang Produktif (KPP) merupakan program unggulan dari Kabupaten Bojonegoro yang dirancang untuk mendukung dan mengembangkan UMKM. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana implementasi kebijakan Kartu Pedagang Produktif (KPP) di Dinas Perdagangan, Koperasi dan Usaha Mikro Kabupaten Bojonegoro. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dengan tipe penelitian deskriptif. Teori yang digunakan adalah teori implementasi kebijakan dari Van Meter dan Van Horn, dengan enam indikator, yaitu tujuan dan standar kebijakan, sumber daya kebijakan, hubungan antar organisasi, karakteristik pelaksana, lingkungan politik, sosial ekonomi, dan sikap para pelaksana. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah implementasi kebijakan Kartu Pedagang Produktif (KPP) dapat dikatakan berhasil karena semua indikator sudah terimplementasi dengan baik, namun masih terdapat kekurangan yaitu ditemukannya indikator sumber daya kebijakan khususnya sumber daya manusia dan indikator karakteristik pelaksana dalam implementasi kebijakan Kartu Pedagang Produktif (KPP) yang masih belum berjalan dengan optimal
Development and validation of a stromal-immune signature to predict prognosis in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Ye Yu-Hang , Xin Hao-Yang , Li Jia-Li , Li Ning , Pan Si-Yuan , Chen Long , Pan Jing-Yue , Hu Zhi-Qiang , Wang Peng-Cheng , Luo Chu-Bin , Sun Rong-Qi , Fan Jia , Zhou Jian , Zhou Zheng-Jun , Zhou Shao-Lai
Published: August 2024

Backgrounds/Aims: Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a highly desmoplastic tumor with poor prognosis even after curative resection. We investigated the associations between the composition of the ICC stroma and immune cell infiltration and aimed to develop a stromal-immune signature to predict prognosis in surgically treated ICC.Methods: We recruited 359 ICC patients and performed immunohistochemistry to detect α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), CD3, CD4, CD8, Foxp3, CD68, and CD66b. Aniline was used to stain collagen deposition. Survival analyses were performed to detect prognostic values of these markers. Recursive partitioning for a discrete-time survival tree was applied to define a stromal-immune signature with distinct prognostic value. We delineated an integrated stromal-immune signature based on immune cell subpopulations and stromal composition to distinguish subgroups with different recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) time.Results: We defined four major patterns of ICC stroma composition according to the distributions of α-SMA and collagen: dormant (α-SMAlow/collagenhigh), fibrogenic (α-SMAhigh/collagenhigh), inert (α-SMAlow/collagenlow), and fibrolytic (α-SMAhigh/collagenlow). The stroma types were characterized by distinct patterns of infiltration by immune cells. We divided patients into six classes. Class I, characterized by high CD8 expression and dormant stroma, displayed the longest RFS and OS, whereas Class VI, characterized by low CD8 expression and high CD66b expression, displayed the shortest RFS and OS. The integrated stromal-immune signature was consolidated in a validation cohort.Conclusions: We developed and validated a stromal-immune signature to predict prognosis in surgically treated ICC. These findings provide new insights into the stromal-immune response to ICC.
‘The Emperor of All Maladies, the King of Terrors’: The Violent Somatechnics of Cancer
Authors: Lykke Nina
Published: August 2024

This article considers the current worldwide cancer epidemic as shaped through complex somatechnical intra-actions between the intimately fleshy suffering of individual bodies and structural violence exerted through carcinogenic necrotechnologies such as pesticides. Additionally, it unpacks the epistemologies of ignorance that characterise contemporary cancer imaginaries in the west by reflecting on how they operate through the widespread deployment of warfare metaphors; metaphors that, in the twenty-first century, have morphed into ‘war against cancer-as-terror(ist)’- images. United States oncologist Siddhartha Mukherjee’s bestselling book, The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer (2011) – also the winner of the Guardian’s non-fiction book award – figures as a nodal point for the ways in which mainstream western cancer narratives and biomedical models obscure the links between cancer and what anthropologist-chemist Anastasia Karakasidou calls chemical modernity; that is, the global spread of carcinogens as a consequence of the worldwide racial capitalist transformations of agriculture and production through chemicalisation. Investigating how epistemologies of ignorance work at the levels of cancer biology, cancer treatment, and environmental carcinogenesis, this article at the same time also demonstrates how the somatechnical lens makes it possible to analyse the intertwined operations of violence, power, technologies, and bodies at all of these levels. This analysis is then complemented by a contemplation of the conative vitality of bodily matter that ontologically accounts for the chiasmatic two-way process between techné and soma that is central to a somatechnical understanding of cancerous embodiment. This article also uses autobiographical material to reflect upon the ways in which epistemologies of ignorance and their matching stories of cancer as natural pathology/enemy/doppelgänger/terrorist are nourished at the individual level of experience of cancer patients and their companions and carers.
Mourning the More-Than-Human: Somatechnics of Environmental Violence, Ethical Imaginaries, and Arts of Eco-Grief
Authors: Radomska Marietta
Published: August 2024

Theoretically grounded in queer death studies and environmental humanities, this article has a twofold aim. Firstly, it explores the somatechnics of environmental violence in the context of Northern and Eastern Europe, while paying attention to ongoing ecocide inflicted by Russia on Ukraine, and to the post-WW2 chemical weapon dumps in the Baltic Sea. Secondly, the article examines the concept of eco-grief in its close relation to artistic narratives on ecocide. By bridging the discussion on environmental violence and artistic renderings of eco-grief, the article hopes to contribute to a better understanding of the socio-cultural responses to more-than-human death and loss, and their accompanying ethical imaginaries and affordances.
Uji Daya Hasil Lanjutan Galur-Galur Padi (Oryza sativa L) Sawah Irigasi Berpotensi Hasil Tinggi
Authors: Aulia Gebby Reza , Afifah Lutfi , Surjana Tatang , Pramudyawardani Estria Furry , Dewi Ratna Sari , Roza Celvia
Published: August 2024

Pemakaian varietas unggul yang sama secara terus-menerus dalam satu lokasi tidak disarankan karena dapat menimbulkan pematahan ketahanan suatu varietas terhadap organisme pengganggu. Salah satu tugas Balai Besar Penelitian Tanaman Padi (BB Padi) adalah merakit varietas unggul baru (VUB) dengan potensi hasil dan sifat-sifat lainnya yang lebih baik dari varietas unggul sebelumnya. Uji Daya Hasil (UDH) galur-galur harapan bertujuan untuk menyeleksi terkait potensi hasil, ketahanan terhadap organisme pengganggu tanaman (OPT) serta kualitas beras untuk diuji lanjut dalam rangkaian proses pelepasan VUB. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Kebun Percobaan BB Padi yang berlokasi di Desa Sukamandijaya Kecamatan Ciasem Kabupaten Subang, Jawa Barat. Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) faktor tunggal dengan 16 perlakuan dan 4 ulangan yang terdiri dari 14 galur generasi lanjut, serta 2 varietas pembanding yaitu A (INPARI 33) dan B (INPARI 32). Hasil analisis ragam uji F pada taraf 5% yang berbeda nyata dilanjutkan dengan uji lanjut uji DMRT taraf 5% untuk menentukan galur terbaik. Hasil analisis ragam terhadap daya hasil tidak menunjukkan perbedaan yang nyata antara galur-galur yang diujikan dengan pembanding terbaik INPARI 33 (6.18 t/ha GKG). Galur G1 dan G11 menunjukkan respon agak tahan terhadap hawar daun bakteri (HDB) IV, kedua galur tersebut layak dianjurkan pada proses pengujian selanjutnya.
 
Kata kunci: Galur padi sawah irigasi, uji daya hasil, varietas unggul baru
Respon Tanaman Kedelai (Glycine max L. Merril) Varietas Anjasmoro Terhadap Pemberian Pembenah Tanah dan Pupuk NPK pada Lahan Kering Masam
Authors: Agustini Rika Yayu , Subardja Vera Oktavia
Published: August 2024

Lahan kering masam berpeluang untuk di kembangkan, baik melalui program intensifikasi maupun ekstensifikasi. Peluang intensifikasi masih sangat terbuka, karena rata–rata tingkat produksi yang di capai belum optimal. Kedelai (Glycine max L.) adalah salah satu komoditas utama kacang-kacangan yang menjadi andalan nasional karena merupakan sumber protein nabati paling populer bagi masyarakat Indonesia. Kacang ini juga termasuk daftar diversifikasi pangan untuk mendukung ketahanan pangan nasional. Langkah praktis untuk meningkatkan produktivitas kedelai yaitu melalui penggunaan pupuk secara efisien, baik pupuk organik maupun pupuk anorganik. Percobaan ini dilaksanakan pada bulan Juli sampai dengan Oktober 2018 di Kebun YAPETRI (Yayasan Pensiunan Peruri), yang terletak di Dusun Sapta Marga RT.07 RW.03, Desa Sinarbaya Kecamatan Telukjambe Timur, Kabupaten Karawang. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah eksperimen dengan Rancangan Acak Kelompok (RAK) faktorial. Faktor pertama adalah jenis pembenah tanah yang terdiri dari 3 taraf, yaitu pupuk organik jerami, pupuk organik sampah dan bottom ash. Faktor kedua dosis pupuk phonska terdiri dari 4 taraf (100% NPK, 75% NPK, 50% NPK dan 25% NPK), sehingga menghasilkan 12 kombinasi perlakuan unit percobaan yang akan diulang sebanyak 3 kali. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian maka tidak terdapat interaksi pengaruh perlakuan pembenah tanah dan pengaruh pupuk majemuk anorganik terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil tanaman kedelai varietas Anjasmoro (Glycine max L. Merril) pada lahan kering.
 
Kata kunci: Anjasmono, bahan amelioran, kedelai, NPK, pupuk
DETERMINING STRUCTURAL RELIABILITY CONSIDERING THE ASYMMETRY OF DISTRIBUTION LAWS
Authors:   National Transport University, Medvediev Kostiantyn , Yevseichyk Yurii ,   National Transport University, Yanchuk Leonid ,   National Transport University, Parovenko Oksana ,   National Transport University, Kozachenko Kateryna ,   National Transport University
Published: August 2024

Abstract. In the calculations of structural reliability, it is mainly considered that the laws of distribution of random values of resistance and load effect obey the normal law (Gauss’s law). This law is convenient to use and the most widespread. Therefore, it has found wide application in reliability theory for solving most problems. The law of distribution is symmetric, that is, random variables are distributed symmetrically relative to its center (mathematical expectation). But, as experimental studies show, both the material resistence and the load effect on the structure in most cases are subject to asymmetric laws. The asymmetry of the material resistance can be neglected in most practical cases, but failure to take into account the asymmetry of the load effect can lead to significant errors in determining structural reliability. The authors chose two laws with different degrees of positive asymmetry to approximate the load distribution, namely gamma and lognormal laws. The normal (symmetric) law was used for the resistence distribution law. The results of reliability calculations that take into account different load distribution laws are presented in the form of a table and a graph. The graph shows the dependence of structural reliability on the reliability index for symmetric (PN) and asymmetric (PNG, PNL) laws. All calculations were performed using the Mathcad complex, which allows calculating values with sufficient accuracy. The issue of how to choose the distribution law for the load effect obviously depends on the operation mode of a particular bridge and should be based on appropriate statistical studies. The purpose of this paper is to show the need for taking into account the law of asymmetry in order to determine the structural reliability. Eurocode norms also require to take into account the asymmetry of distribution laws. Keywords: structural reliability, normal distribution law, safety factor, asymmetric distribution laws, reliability index.
DEVELOPMENT OF QUIZIZZ-BASED PROBLEMS OF LIFE ORGANIZATION SYSTEM MATERIALS FOR CLASS VII JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Authors: Noer Af’idah  , Dwi Sri Handayani
Published: August 2024

In the 21st century teachers face big challenges on how to implement technological developments into the learning process, so that students become more competent and able to compete according to the times. Assessment in the teaching and learning process is a process for making decisions based on information obtained from measuring learning outcomes. One of the online-based assessments is Quizizz. The purpose of this research is to describe the process of developing material problems on life organizational systems using the quizizz application and to describe the product developed after the process of theoretical and empirical validity. This research uses the ADDIE development model which stands for Analyze, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. After that, the questions based on quizzes that had been developed were tested for theoretical and empirical validity. Based on the theoretical analysis conducted by expert validators, an average score of 94.64% was obtained with very good criteria. The results of the empirical validity analysis showed that out of 20 items there were 7 valid questions and 13 invalid questions, the reliability value was 0.583 with moderate criteria, discriminating power with an average of 0.343, moderate difficulty level, and good deception function.
Deal or No Deal: Voting on Multiple Provision Ballot Measures
Authors: Christenson Dino , Boschelli Lucas
Published: August 2024

Ballot propositions provide an instance of direct democracy in which voters have a say in a state’s legislative process. However, voters vary in how they understand and evaluate these measures, many of which can be complicated and comprised of multiple provisions. Are voters deliberate legislators, or do they instead rely on heuristics to guide their final decision? When multiple provisions exist within a single proposition, how do voters weigh their varying support of provisions in their calculus of overall support for the proposition? To examine these questions, we conduct a novel survey utilizing three real ballot measures under consideration during 2022. By experimentally assigning how we ask respondents for their support of a given ballot proposition, we garner insight into how voters approach voting on ballots and their greater decision-making process. We find evidence of a negativity bias, which is strongest on the most complex and least polarized issue
Release of natural extracts from PVA and PVA-CMC hydrogel wound dressings: a power law swelling/delivery
Authors: Oliveira Renata Nunes , Meleiro Luiz Augusto da Cruz , Quilty Brid , McGuinness Garrett Brian
Published: August 2024

Introduction

PVA hydrogels present many characteristics of the ideal dressing, although without antimicrobial properties. The present work aims to study the physical, mechanical and release characteristics of hydrogel wound dressings loaded with either of two natural herbal products, sage extract and dragon's blood.

Methods

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and tensile mechanical testing were used to investigate the structure and properties of the gels. Swelling and degradation tests were conducted according to ISO 10993-9. Release characteristics were studied using UV Spectrophotometry.

Results

PVA matrices incorporating sage extract or dragon's blood (DB) present hydrogen bonding between these components. PVA-CMC hydrogels containing sage present similar spectra to PVA-CMC alone, probably indicating low miscibility or interaction between the matrix and sage. The opposite is found for DB, which exhibits more pronounced interference with crystallinity than sage. DB and NaCMC negatively affect Young's modulus and failure strength. All samples appear to reach equilibrium swelling degree (ESD) in 24 h. The addition of DB and sage to PVA increases the gels' swelling capacity, indicating that the substances likely separate PVA chains. The inclusion of CMC contributes to high media uptake. The kinetics profile of media uptake for 4 days is described by a power-law model, which is correlated to the drug delivery mechanism.

Discussion

A PVA-CMC gel incorporating 15% DB, the highest amount tested, shows the most favorable characteristics for flavonoid delivery, as well as flexibility and swelling capacity.
Integrating musculoskeletal simulation and machine learning: a hybrid approach for personalized ankle-foot exoskeleton assistance strategies
Authors: Zhang Xianyu , Li Shihao , Ying Zhenzhi , Shu Liming , Sugita Naohiko
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Lower limb exoskeletons have shown considerable potential in assisting human walking, particularly by reducing metabolic cost (MC), leading to a surge of interest in this field in recent years. However, owing to significant individual differences and the uncertainty of movements, challenges still exist in the personalized design and control of exoskeletons in human-robot interactions.

Methods: In this study, we propose a hybrid data-driven approach that integrates musculoskeletal simulation with machine learning technology to customize personalized assistance strategies efficiently and adaptively for ankle-foot exoskeletons. First, optimal assistance strategies that can theoretically minimize MC, were derived from forward muscle-driven simulations on an open-source dataset. Then, a neural network was utilized to explore the relationships among different individuals, movements, and optimal strategies, thus developing a predictive model.

Results: With respect to transfer learning, our approach exhibited effectiveness and adaptability when faced with new individuals and movements. The simulation results further indicated that our approach successfully reduced the MC of calf muscles by approximately 20% compared to normal walking conditions.

Discussion: This hybrid approach offers an alternative for personalizing assistance strategy that may further guide exoskeleton design.
Exploring novel Apalutamide analogues as potential therapeutics for prostate cancer: design, molecular docking investigations and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Gupta Ajay Kumar , Vaishnav Yogesh , Jain Sanmati Kumar , Annadurai Sivakumar , Kumar Neeraj
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Prostate cancer (PC) ranks as the second most frequent type of cancer in men and is the fourth largest cause of mortality worldwide. Androgenic hormones such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone are crucial for the development and progression of the prostate gland. Androgenic hormones bind to androgen receptors (AR) and trigger the synthesis of many genes that stimulate the growth of prostate cells, initiating PC growth. Apalutamide (APL) is a non-steroidal antiandrogen drug used to treat PC; however, it also causes a variety of toxicities and resistance during the treatment.

Methods: The purpose of this study was to computationally identify new and safer analogues of APL, focusing on improved pharmacokinetic properties and reduced toxicity. Drug likeness (DL) and drug score (DS) were also calculated. Docking studies on the designed analogues were conducted to predict their binding affinities and compare their orientations with the ligands in the original crystal structure. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of docked ligands was done using Schrödinger suite.

Results: We generated a total of 1,415 analogues for different groups of APL using the bioisosteric approach. We selected 80 bioisosteres based on pharmacokinetic profiles, DL and DS score predictions, and found that the designed APL bioisosteres were optimal to good compared to APL. Analogues APL19, APL35, APL43, APL76, and APL80, formed hydrogen bonds with protein (PDB ID: 5T8E) which is similar hydrogen bonding to the standard (APL). The MD simulation result confirmed that APL43 and APL80 complexes were stable during the 100 nS run.

Discussion: The results suggest that the APL analogues, particularly APL43 and APL80, are predicted to be potential antiandrogen drugs for the treatment of prostate cancer.
Molecular epidemiology of string test-positive Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates in Huzhou, China, 2020-2023
Authors: Yan Wei , Xu Deshun , Shen Yuehua , Dong Fenfen , Ji Lei
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study used whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to explore the genetic diversity, virulence factors, and antimicrobial resistance determinants of string test-positive Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) over a 4-year surveillance period in Huzhou, China.

Methods

In total, 632 clinical isolates were collected via hospital surveillance from 2020 to 2023; 100 were positive in the string test and these 100 strains were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing using an agar dilution method followed by WGS.

Results

The resistance rates to cefotaxime (77.0%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (67.0%), and nalidixic acid (64.0%) were high. Multilocus sequence typing revealed high genetic diversity; there were 33 sequence types (STs) and 15 capsular serotypes. The most common ST was ST23 (16.0%) and the most common capsular serotype was K1 (22.5%). Virulome analysis revealed among-strain differences in virulence factors that affected bacterial adherence, efflux pump action, iron uptake, nutritional factors, metabolic regulation, the secretion system, and toxin production. The Kleborate strain-specific virulence scores of all 100 string test-positive KPs were derived: 28 strains scored 5, 28 scored 4, 21 scored 3, 12 scored 1, and 11 scored 0. All 77 strains with scores of 3 to 5 contained the iucA gene. The phylogeny based on whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphisms (wgSNPs) indicated high clonality; the string test-positive KP strains were grouped into six clades. Closely related isolates in each genetic cluster usually shared STs.

Conclusion

The present study highlights the significance of the KP iucA gene in terms of hypervirulence and the diverse genotypes of string test-positive KP strains isolated in Huzhou hospitals.
FosA3 emerging in clinical carbapenemase-producing C. freundii
Authors: Mattioni Marchetti Vittoria , Venturelli Irene , Cassetti Tiziana , Meschiari Marianna , Migliavacca Roberta , Bitar Ibrahim
Published: August 2024

Fosfomycin (FOS) is an effective antibiotic against multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales, but its effectiveness is reducing. Little is known on the current prevalence of FosA enzymes in low-risk pathogens, such as Citrobacter freundii. The aim of the study was the molecular characterization of a carbapenemase- and FosA-producing C. freundii collected in Italy. AK867, collected in 2023, showed an XDR profile, retaining susceptibility only to colistin. AK867 showed a FOS MIC >128 mg/L by ADM. Based on WGS, AK867 belonged to ST116 and owned a wide resistome, including fosA3, blaKPC-2, and blaVIM-1. fosA3 was carried by a conjugative pKPC-CAV1312 plasmid of 320,480 bp, on a novel composite transposon (12,907 bp). FosA3 transposon shared similarities with other fosA3-harboring pKPC-CAV1312 plasmids among Citrobacter spp. We report the first case of FosA3 production in clinical carbapenemase-producing C. freundii ST116. The incidence of FosA3 enzymes is increasing among Enterobacterales, affecting even low-virulence pathogens, as C. freundii.
Quantum logic automata generalizing the edge of chaos in complex systems
Authors: Gunji Yukio Pegio , Ohzawa Yoshihiko , Tokuyama Yuuki , Eto Kentaro
Published: August 2024

Background

Historically, although researchers in the science of complex systems proposed the idea of the edge of chaos and/or self-organized criticality as the essential feature of complex organization, they were not able to generalize this concept. Complex organization is regarded at the edge of chaos between the order phase and the chaos phase and a very rare case. Additionally, in cellular automata, the critical property is class IV, which is also rarely found. Therefore, there can be overestimation for natural selection. More recently, developments in cognitive and brain science have led to the free energy principle based on Bayesian inference, while quantum cognition has been established to explain various cognitive phenomena. Since Bayesian inference results in the perspective of a steady state, it can be described in Boolean logic. Considering that quantum logic consists of multiple Boolean logic in terms of lattice theory, the perspective of the free energy principle is the perspective of order, and the perspective of quantum logic might be the perspective of multiple worlds, which is strongly relevant for the edge of chaos.

Problem

The next question arises whether the perspective derived from quantum logic can be generalized for the complex behavior consisting of both order and chaos, instead of the edge of chaos or self-organized criticality, to reveal the property of critical behavior such as a power-law distribution.

Solution

In this study, we define quantum logic automata, which entail quantum logic (orthomodular lattice) in terms of lattice theory and have the features of a dynamical system. Because quantum logic automata are applied to a binary sequence, one can estimate the behavior of those automata with respect to patterns and a time series. Here, we show that most of a group of quantum logic automata display class IV-like behavior, in which oscillatory traveling waves collide with each other, leading to complex behavior; moreover, a time series of binary sequences displays1/fnoise. Therefore, one can see that quantum logic automata generalize and expand the idea of the edge of chaos.
Characteristics of inflammatory mediators in dental pulp inflammation and the potential for their control
Authors: Kawashima Nobuyuki , Okiji Takashi
Published: August 2024

Dental pulp is a mesenchymal connective tissue located inside the rigid encasement of the dentin. When bacteria or bacterial products invade the dental pulp, inflammation known as pulpitis is induced in this tissue. Various mediators produced during the course of pulpitis profoundly modify the pathophysiology of the inflammation. Typical mediators include cytokines, chemokines, nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, matrix metalloproteinases, proteases, neutrophil extracellular traps, neuropeptides, and eicosanoids. Controlling these mediators may potentially lead to the healing of pulpitis and the preservation of pulp tissue. This review discusses these mediators and further explores the possibility of controlling them.
A comprehensive review on economic, environmental impacts and future challenges for photovoltaic-based electric vehicle charging infrastructures
Authors: Rashid Haseeb , Hua Liu Ming , Guanghua Lyu , Hasan Rija , AlKaseem Abdulrahman , Ali Aqsa , Shah Syed Hadi Hussain , Shaikh Shoaib , Soomar Arsalan Muhammad , Musznicki Piotr
Published: August 2024

Graphical Abstract

Abstractable representation of the paper.
Gestation-dependent increase in cervicovaginal pro-inflammatory cytokines and cervical extracellular matrix proteins is associated with spontaneous preterm delivery within 2 weeks of index assessment in South African women
Authors: Amabebe Emmanuel , Ikumi Nadia , Oosthuizen Ally , Soma-Pillay Priya , Matjila Mushi , Anumba Dilly O. C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Inflammation-induced remodelling of gestational tissues that underpins spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB, delivery < 37 weeks’ gestation) may vary by race and context. To explore relationships between markers of these pathological processes, we (a) characterised the cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) cytokine profiles of pregnant South African women at risk of PTB; (b) determined CVF matrix-metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and its regulator tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1); and (c) explored the predictive potential of these markers for sPTB.

Method of study

The concentrations of 10 inflammatory cytokines and MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were determined by ELISA in CVF samples from 47 non-labouring women at high risk of PTB. We studied CVF sampled at three gestational time points (GTPs): GTP1 (20–22 weeks, n = 37), GTP2 (26–28 weeks, n = 40), and GTP3 (34–36 weeks, n = 29) and analysed for changes in protein concentrations and predictive capacities (area under the ROC curve (AUC) and 95% confidence interval (CI)) for sPTB.

Results

There were 11 (GTP1), 13 (GTP2), and 6 (GTP3) women who delivered preterm within 85.3 ± 25.9, 51.3 ± 15.3, and 11.8 ± 7.5 (mean ± SD) days after assessment, respectively. At GTP1, IL-8 was higher (4-fold, p = 0.02), whereas GM-CSF was lower (~1.4-fold, p = 0.03) in the preterm compared with term women with an average AUC = 0.73. At GTP2, IL-1β (18-fold, p < 0.0001), IL-8 (4-fold, p = 0.03), MMP-9 (17-fold, p = 0.0007), MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio (9-fold, p = 0.004), and MMP-9/GM-CSF ratio (87-fold, p = 0.005) were higher in preterm compared with term women with an average AUC = 0.80. By contrast, IL-10 was associated with term delivery with an AUC (95% CI) = 0.75 (0.55–0.90). At GTP3, IL-1β (58-fold, p = 0.0003), IL-8 (12-fold, p = 0.002), MMP-9 (296-fold, p = 0.03), and TIMP-1 (35-fold, p = 0.01) were higher in preterm compared with term women with an average AUC = 0.85. Elevated IL-1β was associated with delivery within 14 days of assessment with AUC = 0.85 (0.67–0.96). Overall, elevated MMP-9 at GTP3 had the highest (13.3) positive likelihood ratio for distinguishing women at risk of sPTB. Lastly, a positive correlation between MMP-9 and TIMP-1 at all GTPs (ρ ≥ 0.61, p < 0.01) for women delivering at term was only observed at GTP1 for those who delivered preterm (ρ = 0.70, p < 0.03).

Conclusions

In this cohort, sPTB is associated with gestation-dependent increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines, decreased IL-10 and GM-CSF, and dysregulated MMP-9-TIMP-1 interaction. Levels of cytokine (especially IL-1β) and ECM remodelling proteins rise significantly in the final 2 weeks before the onset of labour when sPTB is imminent. The signalling mechanisms for these ECM remodelling observations remain to be elucidated.
Exhaustion of T cells after renal transplantation
Authors: Wang Xiujia , Zhang Jinghui , Zhong Pingshan , Wei Xiuwang
Published: August 2024

Renal transplantation is a life-saving treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease. However, the challenge of transplant rejection and the complications associated with immunosuppressants necessitates a deeper understanding of the underlying immune mechanisms. T cell exhaustion, a state characterized by impaired effector functions and sustained expression of inhibitory receptors, plays a dual role in renal transplantation. While moderate T cell exhaustion can aid in graft acceptance by regulating alloreactive T cell responses, excessive exhaustion may impair the recipient’s ability to control viral infections and tumors, posing significant health risks. Moreover, drugs targeting T cell exhaustion to promote graft tolerance and using immune checkpoint inhibitors for cancer treatment in transplant recipients are areas deserving of further attention and research. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the changes in T cell exhaustion levels after renal transplantation and their implications for graft survival and patient outcomes. We discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying T cell exhaustion, the role of specific exhaustion markers, the potential impact of immunosuppressive therapies, and the pharmaceutical intervention on T cell exhaustion levels. Additionally, we demonstrate the potential to modulate T cell exhaustion favorably, enhancing graft survival. Future research should focus on the distinctions of T cell exhaustion across different immune states and subsets, as well as the interactions between exhausted T cells and other immune cells. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for optimizing transplant outcomes and ensuring long-term graft survival while maintaining immune competence.
Synthesis and characterization of Turbinaria ornata mediated Zn/ZnO green nanoparticles as potential antioxidant and anti-diabetic agent of enhanced activity
Authors: Diab Amira S. , Elsayed Khaled N. M. , El-Sherbeeny Ahmed M. , Al Zoubi Wail , Bellucci Stefano , Abukhadra Mostafa R.
Published: August 2024

Turbinaria ornata marine macro-algae (TUN) have been applied as carriers for the metallic zinc/ZnO blended nanoparticles, which were synthesized by implementing the extracted phytochemicals of the algae. The resulting hybrid bio-composite (Zn@ZnO/TUN) was characterized as a potential product of promising antioxidant and antidiabetic characteristics in synergetic studies. The obtained composite demonstrate t6he existing or complex biological active groups related to zinc (Zn-O stretching and tetrahedral Zn coordination) and organic groups (amino, methyl, carboxylic, alkynes, P=O, C–C–O, C=N, and N–O) corresponding to the extracted phytochemicals of algae (polysaccharides, phospholipids, lipids, fucose, and phosphodiester). The assessment of Zn@ZnO/TUN hybrid as an anti-oxidant agent validated excellent effectiveness towards the commonly examined radicals (DPPH (88.2 ± 1.44%), nitric oxide (92.7 ± 1.71%), ABTS (90.5 ± 1.8%), and O2●− (30.6 ± 1.32%), considering the determined performance for the commercially used standard (ascorbic acid). Regarding the antidiabetic properties, the incorporation of Zn@ZnO/TUN inhibits the function and activities of the key oxidizing enzymes, either the commercial forms (α-amylase (88.7 ± 1.3%), α-glucosidase (98.4 ± 1.3%), and amyloglucosidase (97.3 ± 1.4%) or the crude intestinal active forms (α-amylase (66.2 ± 1.4%) and α-glucosidase (95.1 ± 1.5%). This inhibitory effectiveness of Zn@ZnO/TUN is significantly better than the measured performances using commercialized miglitol drugs and slightly better than acarbose. Considering the expense and adverse effects of conventional medications, the synthesized Zn@ZnO/TUN blend could be evaluated as a marketable antidiabetic and antioxidant medication. The findings also demonstrate the influence of the derived phytochemicals from Turbinaria ornata and the incorporation of its algae residuals as carriers for the metal nanoparticles on the biological function of the composite. The cytotoxicity investigation reflected safety effect of the composite on colorectal fibroblast cells (CCD-18Co) (96.3% cell viability) and inhibition effect on cancerous colorectal cells (HCT-116) (47.3% cell viability).
Research on mechanical properties of steel-polypropylene fiber concrete and application of beam structure
Authors: Li Jiuyang , Luo Jingwei , Chen Li , Fan Xinmei , Zhu Yuepeng , Wang Xiaoyu , Guo Jingpeng
Published: August 2024

Concrete faces the difficulties of low tensile strength and poor crack resistance in building structures. In order to remedy this deficiency. In this paper, steel-polypropylene hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (SPFRC) was prepared by adding steel fiber (SF) and three kinds of polypropylene fiber (PF) to C50-grade concrete. The mechanical properties and microstructure of SPFRC were studied with different fiber combinations and content, obtaining the best hybrid combination. Based on this, the bending resistance and cracking of SPFRC beam members were investigated. The results demonstrate that the addition of fiber improves the compressive strength of ordinary concrete by 0.16% ∼ 17.69%, the splitting tensile strength by 15.18% ∼ 47.45%, and the bending strength by 3.54% ∼ 26.77%. Compared with single-fiber concrete, the hybrid fiber can achieve better internal microstructure, which further enhances the mechanical properties of the material. Hybrid fibers overlap within concrete beams, effectively redistributing stress and inhibiting the formation and propagation of cracks. For the three types of SPFRC beams, the cracking load is increased by 14.29% ∼ 28.57% compared with PC beam, the ultimate bearing capacity is increased by 9.68% ∼ 19.35%. The optimal dosage is determined as 1.0% SF, 0.6% Embossed polypropylene fiber (PBF). It provides reference for the application of SPFRC in flexural members.