bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPLEMENTASI PENGAWASAN PEMERINTAHAN PADA PENERAPAN APLIKASI SISTEM INFORMASI PEMERINTAHAN DAERAH (SIPD) DI DINAS PERDAGANGAN PROVINSI SULAWESI SELATAN
Authors: Alwany Taufan
Published: July 2024

Kementerian Dalam Negeri telah mengembangkan Sistem Informasi Pemerintahan Daerah (SIPD) untuk menggantikan sistem sebelumnya, SIMDA. Tujuannya adalah menciptakan sistem informasi yang efisien, efektif, akurat, transparan, dan akuntabel, menghubungkan pemerintah pusat dengan pemerintah daerah. Akurasi dan kelengkapan informasi adalah kunci peningkatan kapabilitas pelayanan pemerintah, sehingga diperlukan sistem informasi yang mendukung. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis penerapan SIPD di Dinas Perdagangan Provinsi Sulawesi Selatan menggunakan metode kualitatif. Teori implementasi kebijakan oleh George C. Edward III digunakan sebagai kerangka, yang menekankan empat variabel penting untuk keberhasilan kebijakan: Komunikasi, Sumber Daya, Sikap atau Disposisi, dan Struktur Birokrasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya kendala dalam pemahaman pelaksana SIPD, sehingga diperlukan pelatihan intensif untuk meningkatkan kapabilitas pelaksana dalam menggunakan sistem ini.
STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION OF LECTURER TEACHING PERFORMANCE ONLINE AT INSTITUTE OF HOME AFFAIR GOVERNANCE (IPDN)
Authors: Maisondra Maisondra
Published: July 2024

The implementation of online learning during the Covid-19 Pandemic is a government policy in order to reduce the spread of the disease outbreak. It is not yet known to what extent it reduces the teaching performance of lecturers. This study to determine IPDN students’ satisfaction of lecturer performance in teaching online which was carried out, which was seen through four indicators, namely: 1) Teaching Preparation, 2) Discipline, 3) Interaction, and 4) Evaluation. This type of research is descriptive analysis research, which is an attempt to   describe the performance of lecturers in teaching online. Data were obtained from the results of field research by distributing questionnaires in the form of asking questions directly to 160 respondents (or 10 percent of the total, 1,600 junior students) who had previously been randomly selected from junior students of IPDN. The data obtained were analyzed using qualitative analysis methods. The results showed that: Assessment for Teaching Preparation 95.5 percent, Discipline 90 percent, Interaction 80 percent, and Evaluation 94.5 percent. If we take the average score given by junior students or the satisfaction level is: 90 percent. This figure is quite high. But, the bias of this study is that the tendency of students' evaluation of lecturer performance is always to say that it is very good and good  close to 100 percent. These figures do not yet show what percentage actually teaching online during the Covid-19 pandemic has reduced lecturer performance compared to teaching offline. This figure only shows the level of student satisfaction level with lecturer performance in teaching based on the four indicators above.
PENGAWASAN DAN PENGENDALIAN KEBIJAKAN PELARANGAN PAKAIAN IMPOR BEKAS (THRIFT) DALAM MELINDUNGI KEPENTINGN UMUM OLEH KEDEPUTIAN III KANTOR STAF PRESIDEN REPUBLIK INDONESIA
Authors: Immanuel Revandy Eliazer , Johannes Ayu Widowati
Published: July 2024

Penelitian dilatarbelakangi oleh ketidaksesuaian bahwa sudah ada kebijakan pelarangan pakaian impor bekas yang sudah diimplementasikan tetapi peredaran dan perdagangan pekaian impor bekas masih didapati. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan wujud, mengungkapkan hambatan dan dukungan, menjelaskan strategi terkait pengawasan dan pengendalian kebijakan pelarangan pakaian impor bekas oleh Kedeputian III Kantor Staf Presiden. Metode kualitatif deskriptif digunakan untuk mendeskripsikan realita menggunakan teknik wawancara, observasi, dan dokumentasi serta triangulasi data dengan menggunakan teori Pengendalian Kebijakan dari Nugroho (2018). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengawasan gabungan telah dilaksanakan, evaluasi telah dilakukan menggunakan data lapangan dan laporan implementer, dan rekomendasi diberikan sebagai wujud pengganjaran. Hambatan yang ditemukan adalah bahwa masyarakat masih tertarik dalam memperoleh pakaian impor beka, adanya mafia yang terdiri dari aparat penegak hukum, dan pengawasan dari external control dan implementer kebijakan yang belum intens. Faktor pendukung adalah adanya dukungan pimpinan yang konsisten. Strategi yang ada adalah untuk melaksanakan pengawasan terhadap implementer kebijakan yang menitikberatkan pada grace period dan untuk melakukan approach kepada pihak-pihak terkait untuk melaksanakan pengawasan terintegrasi. Pengawasan dan evaluasi harus tetap dilaksanakan bersamaan dengan memperkuat pengaruh dari pengganjaran kebijakan. Satuan tugas khusus dibutuhkan untuk mengatasi mafia. Dibutuhkan strategi yang antisipatif dalam skema pengawasan dan pengendalian kebijakan.
PERAN SUMBER DAYA MANUSIA KEPALA DESA YANG BERKUALITAS DALAM CAPAIAN INDEKS DESA MEMBANGUN
Authors: MUHI ALI HANAFIAH
Published: July 2024

Pemerintah dan pemerintah daerah berusaha keras untuk mensejahterakan masyarakat, termasuk masyarakat desa. Khusus bagi desa, upaya itu dilakukan melalui kegiatan menggerakkan dan membangun desa. Agar pembangunan desa lebih terarah, Kemendes PDTT menetapkan metode dan alat ukurnya, yaitu Indeks Desa Membangun (IDM). Namun dalam pelaksanaannya pembangunan desa masih menghadapi berbagai permasalahan, diantaranya keterbatasan sumber daya manusia (SDM) yang berkualitas. Secara nasional, Kepala Desa berpendidikan SMA ke bawah masih sangat dominan mencapai 74,55 persen. Hal ini juga dihadapi oleh Provinsi Jawa Barat, yang merupakan Provinsi penyangga ibukota Negara Republik Indonesia DKI Jakarta.
Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode penelitian kuantitatif. Sumber data diperoleh dari studi dokumentasi dan libraries studies. Data diolah, dan dianalisis dengan uji statistik sederhana. Selanjutnya, melakukan penafsiran hasil analisis, dan pembahasan, serta penarikan kesimpulan.
Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sampai tahun 2023 tingkat pendidikan Kepala Desa di Provinsi Jawa Barat lebih baik dibanding Nasional. Capaian IDM di Provinsi Jawa Barat lebih baik dibanding Nasional. Provinsi Jawa Barat telah berhasil keluar dari belenggu Desa Sangat Tertinggal dan Desa Tertinggal, sedangkan Nasional belum.  Kondisi ini erat kaitannya dengan kualitas SDM (Kepala Desa). Perbandingan persentase Kepala Desa berpendidikan tinggi di Jawa Barat dan Nasional adalah 33,68 persen berbanding 25,45 persen, sedangkan untuk yang berpendidikan SMA ke bawah adalah 66,32 persen berbanding 74,55 persen. Kondisi ini berpengaruh terhadap kontribusi Kepala Desa dalam capaian IDM. Hal ini dapat dilihat dari laju pertumbuhan capaian IDM di Provinsi Jawa Barat sebesar 0,028 lebih besar daripada laju capaian IDM Nasional sebesar 0,017. Laju pertumbuhan capaian IDM di Provinsi Jawa Barat hampir 2 (dua) kali lipat dari laju pertumbuhan capaian IDM Nasional. Ini membuktikan bahwa kualitas SDM atau Kepala Desa yang berpendidikan lebih baik (tinggi) mampu memberikan kontribusi nyata dalam laju pertumbuhan IDM. Semakin tinggi tingkat pendidikan Kepala Desa, maka semakin tinggi laju pertumbuhan IDM. Artinya, semakin tinggi tingkat pendidikan Kepala Desa, semakin besar kontribusi atau perannya dalam pembangunan dan kemajuan desa.
GOVERNANCE OF VILLAGE ADMINISTRATION IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TOURISM SECTOR IN BITING VILLAGE, BADEGAN DISTRICT, PONOROGO REGENCY
Authors: Khoirunnisa Khoirunnisa , Hilman Yusuf Adam
Published: July 2024

This research aims to understand and describe village government management in the development of the tourism sector in Biting Village, Badegan District, Ponorogo Regency. The concept of Good Village Governance is used as the theoretical foundation, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and community participation as the main principles. This study employs a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through semi-structured interviews and documentation. Data analysis is conducted using the data analysis model from Miles, Huberman, and Saldana (2014), including data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results show that transparency is realized through the dissemination of information on policies, programs, and activities through various communication platforms. Accountability is evident in the monthly reporting of tourism funds and periodic evaluations. Community participation is enhanced through Village Deliberation forums and training involving various community components. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and community participation in managing the tourism sector to achieve good and sustainable governance.
INOVASI PELAYANAN BUNDAKU DALAM PENERBITAN AKTA KELAHIRAN DI DINAS KEPENDUDUKAN DAN PENCATATAN SIPIL KABUPATEN TEMANGGUNG PROVINSI JAWA TENGAH
Authors: Munandar Aurora Tanjayani , Hendra Asep
Published: July 2024

Tidak tercapainya target angka kepemilikan akta kelahiran di Rencana Strategis Dindukcapil Kabupaten Temanggung menyebabkan Pemerintah Kabupaten Temanggung mengeluarkan Surat Keputusan Bupati Nomor 470/363 tahun 2019 tentang Tim Percepatan Peningkatan Kepemilikan Akta Pencatatan Sipil dan Tim Peningkatan Kepemilikan Dokumen Pendaftaran Penduduk Kabupaten Temanggung. Menindaklanjuti hal tersebut, inovasi pelayanan terbaru bernama BUNDAKU mulai dijalankan oleh Dinas Kependudukan dan Pencatatan Sipil Kabupaten Temanggung. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan memahami Inovasi Pelayanan BUNDAKU dalam penerbitan akta kelahiran di Dinas Kependudukan dan Pencatatan Sipil Kabupaten Temanggung, mengetahui dan memahami kendala dari Inovasi Pelayanan BUNDAKU dalam penerbitan akta kelahiran, serta mengetahui upaya yang dilakukan pemerintah terkait penyelesaian kendala yang Inovasi Pelayanan BUNDAKU dalam penerbitan akta kelahiran di Dinas Kependudukan dan Pencatatan Sipil Kabupaten Temanggung. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini ialah kualitatif deskriptif. Jenis data yang digunakan peneliti yaitu data primer dan data sekunder. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah wawancara, observasi, serta dokumentasi. Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Inovasi Pelayanan BUNDAKU dalam penerbitan akta kelahiran belum berjalan dengan baik dikarenakan terdapat kendala yang dihadapi sehingga menghambat proses pelayanan seperti, kurangnya dokumen persyaratan pembuatan akta kelahiran, server eror, kurangnya sumber daya manusia, dan kurangnya komunikasi dengan pihak fasilitator kesehatan.
АРХЕОЛОГО-АНТРОПОЛОГИЧЕСКОЕ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ ДРЕВНЕРУССКОГО НЕКРОПОЛЯ ГОРОДИЩЕ УНОРОЖ
Authors: Новиков Александр , Васильев Сергей , Новикова Ольга , Баранов Вячеслав
Published: July 2024

The burial ground is being formed in two stages. The first corresponds to the time of the ancient Russian development of the region, and is characterized by burials of small depth, with little expression of the filling of the pits, the presence of some things associated with the burials, and paired burials. Its chronological boundaries, due to the scarcity of material accompanying the burials, have not been fully determined, but, apparently, can fit into the historical framework of Old Russian times in the second half of the 11–14th centuries. The second is associated with monastic history (15–18th centuries). The latter may include deeper burials Nos. 17, 20, 21 in wooden coffins (blocks)
ПАЛЕОАНТРОПОЛОГИЧЕСКОЕ ОПИСАНИЕ ДВУХ ИНДИВИДОВ ИЗ ХРИСТИАНСКИХ ПОГРЕБЕНИЙ В С. ГЛАЗОК (ТАМБОВСКАЯ ОБЛАСТЬ)
Authors: Рашковская Юлия , Ерохин Александр , Харламова Наталья , Васильев Сергей
Published: July 2024

The article presents the paleoanthropological characteristics of two skeletons unearthed near Glazok, the Michurinsky district, the Tambov region (Russia) under the leadership of I.E. Safonov and D.A. Chilikin. The sex and age definitions, osteological, odontological data and pathologies are represented according to standard methods used in paleoanthropology. In the first burial, there was an adult man 35-45 years old, in the second a young woman, 20-25 years old. According to the study, the man was above medium height, relatively narrow-shouldered with average upper limb girdle characteristics and massive tibia. According to the odontological description, the woman is a representative of the Western odontological trunk, the Central European odontological complex, which is also characteristic of the modern population of the Tambov region. At the same time, the strongly differentiated first premolars and hypoplasia are a distinctive feature of the studied individuals. The man lost several teeth during his lifetime due to a carious lesion. In addition, there are detected dental tartar and chips on the tooth enamel.
Legumain in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Zhou Lei , Wu Jianqiang , Wei Zairong , Zheng Yuehong
Published: July 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, having become a global public health problem, so the pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic strategies of CVDs need further study. Legumain is a powerful enzyme that is widely distributed in mammals and plays an important role in a variety of biological processes. Recent research suggests that legumain is associated with the occurrence and progression of CVDs. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of legumain in the pathogenesis of CVDs. The role of legumain in CVDs, such as carotid atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, aortic aneurysms and dissection, is discussed. The potential applications of legumain as a biomarker of these diseases are also explored. By understanding the role of legumain in the pathogenesis of CVDs, we aim to support new therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat these diseases.
Multiplexed spatial transcriptomics methods and the application of expansion microscopy
Authors: Fortner Andra , Bucur Octavian
Published: July 2024

While spatial transcriptomics has undeniably revolutionized our ability to study cellular organization, it has driven the development of a great number of innovative transcriptomics methods, which can be classified into in situ sequencing (ISS) methods, in situ hybridization (ISH) techniques, and next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based sequencing with region capture. These technologies not only refine our understanding of cellular processes, but also open up new possibilities for breakthroughs in various research domains. One challenge of spatial transcriptomics experiments is the limitation of RNA detection due to optical crowding of RNA in the cells. Expansion microscopy (ExM), characterized by the controlled enlargement of biological specimens, offers a means to achieve super-resolution imaging, overcoming the diffraction limit inherent in conventional microscopy and enabling precise visualization of RNA in spatial transcriptomics methods. In this review, we elaborate on ISS, ISH and NGS-based spatial transcriptomic protocols and on how performance of these techniques can be extended by the combination of these protocols with ExM. Moving beyond the techniques and procedures, we highlight the broader implications of transcriptomics in biology and medicine. These include valuable insight into the spatial organization of gene expression in cells within tissues, aid in the identification and the distinction of cell types and subpopulations and understanding of molecular mechanisms and intercellular changes driving disease development.
Assessment of the therapeutic potential of Hsp70 activator against prion diseases using in vitro and in vivo models
Authors: Zayed Mohammed , Kim Yong-Chan , Jeong Byung-Hoon
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Prion diseases are deadly neurodegenerative disorders in both animals and humans, causing the destruction of neural tissue and inducing behavioral manifestations. Heat shock proteins (Hsps), act as molecular chaperones by supporting the appropriate folding of proteins and eliminating the misfolded proteins as well as playing a vital role in cell signaling transduction, cell cycle, and apoptosis control. SW02 is a potent activator of Hsp 70 kDa (Hsp70).

Methods

In the current study, the protective effects of SW02 against prion protein 106-126 (PrP106-126)-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma cells (SH-SY5Y) were investigated. In addition, the therapeutic effects of SW02 in ME7 scrapie-infected mice were evaluated.

Results

The results showed that SW02 treatment significantly increased Hsp70 mRNA expression levels and Hsp70 ATPase activity (p < 0.01). SW02 also significantly inhibited cytotoxicity and apoptosis induced by PrP106-126 (p < 0.01) and promoted neurite extension. In vivo, intraperitoneal administration of SW02 did not show a statistically significant difference in survival time (p = 0.16); however, the SW02-treated group exhibited a longer survival time of 223.6 ± 6.0 days compared with the untreated control group survival time of 217.6 ± 5.4 days. In addition, SW02 reduced the PrPSc accumulation in ME7 scrapie-infected mice at 5 months post-injection (p < 0.05). A significant difference was not observed in GFAP expression, an astrocyte marker, between the treated and untreated groups.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the potential therapeutic role of the Hsp70 activator SW02 was determined in the present study and may be a novel and effective drug to mitigate the pathologies of prion diseases and other neurodegenerative diseases. Further studies using a combination of two pharmacological activators of Hsp70 are required to maximize the effectiveness of each intervention.
Advancements in reperfusion rates and quality of care for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: a ten-year evaluation of Salvador's STEMI network
Authors: Roriz Pollianna Souza , Ferreira Isabella Bonifácio Brige , Pontes Fabiana Benevides , Machado Antônio , Aguiar Tércio Caires , Matos Marcos Antônio Almeida , Paiva Filho Ivan Mattos , Menezes Rodrigo Carvalho , Andrade Bruno Bezerril
Published: July 2024

Background

Continuous investment and systematic evaluation of program accomplishments are required to achieve excellence in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) care, especially in resource-limited settings. Therefore, this study evaluates the impact of problem-driven interventions on reperfusion use rate in a long-term operating STEMI network from a low- to middle-income country.

Methods

This is a healthcare improvement evaluation study of Salvador's public STEMI network in a quasi-experimental design, comparing data from 2009 to 2010 (pre-intervention) and 2019-2020 (post-intervention). There were evaluated all confirmed STEMI cases assisted in both periods. The interventions, implemented since 2017, included: expanding the support team, defining criteria to be a spoke, and initiating continuous education activities. The primary outcome was the rate of patients undergoing reperfusion, with secondary outcomes being time from door-to-ECG (D2E) and ECG-to-STEMI-team trigger (E2T).

Results

Over ten years, the network's coverage increased by 300,000 individuals, and expanded by 1,800 km2. A total of 885 records were analyzed, 287 in the pre-intervention group (182 men [63·4%]; mean [SD] age 62·1 [12·5] years) and 598 in the post-intervention group (356 men [59·5%]; mean [SD] age 61.9 [11·8] years). It was noticed a substantial increase in reperfusion delivery rate (90 [31%] vs. 431 [73%]; P = 001) and reductions in time from D2E (159 [83–340] vs. 29 [15–63], P = 001), and E2T (31 [21–44] vs. 16 [6–40], P = 001).

Conclusion

The strategies adopted by Salvador's STEMI network were associated with significant improvements in the rate of patients undergoing reperfusion and in D2E and E2T. However, the mortality rate remains high.
The study of the blast resistance performance of underground cavern support structures under the effect of explosive ground loads
Authors: Liu Xinxing
Published: July 2024

The use of support structures with good explosion resistance to support and reinforce underground projects has become a focus of concern for relevant units in order to ensure the safety of underground projects in explosive ground loads. The blast resistance of underground caverns and the influence of support parameters on blast resistance have been studied when lining and pre-stressing anchors are supported individually under dynamic and static coupling. Straight-walled arched caverns are chosen for this study because of their strong blast resistance. The influence of excavation unloading on the support structure was analyzed under the condition of a burial depth of 500 m. The study investigated the blast resistance of caves supported solely by singular concrete lining support and singular pre-stressed anchor bolt support. The research findings indicate that pre-stressed anchor bolts significantly limit the deformation capacity of surrounding rock while lining is more effective in restricting the vibration response of surrounding rock. The pre-stressed anchor bolts ensure operation within the strength range throughout the entire process with no alteration in load-bearing capacity. Increasing the thickness of the lining can reduce the vibration response of the cavern. Meanwhile, enhancing the pre-stressed anchor bolts within a certain range notably restricts the deformation response of the cavern. Therefore, the pre-stressed anchor bolts should be employed as the supporting structure to bear the excavation and unloading loads of the cavern.
Exploring the role of NLRP3 inflammasome in diabetic nephropathy and the advancements in herbal therapeutics
Authors: Jin Jiangyuan , Zhang Mianzhi
Published: July 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), is clinically marked by progressive proteinuria and a decline in glomerular filtration rate. The etiology and pathogenesis of DN encompass a spectrum of factors, including hemodynamic alterations, inflammation, and oxidative stress, yet remain incompletely understood. The NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, a critical component of the body’s innate immunity, plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of DN by promoting the release of inflammatory cytokines, thus contributing to the progression of this chronic inflammatory condition. Recent studies highlight the involvement of the NLRP3 inflammasome in the renal pathology associated with DN. This article delves into the activation pathways of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its pathogenic implications in DN. Additionally, it reviews the therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in modulating the NLRP3 inflammasome, aiming to provide comprehensive insights into the pathogenesis of DN and the current advancements in TCM interventions targeting NLRP3 inflammatory vesicles. Such insights are expected to lay the groundwork for further exploration into TCM-based treatments for DN.
Identification of signature genes and immune infiltration analysis in thyroid cancer based on PANoptosis related genes
Authors: Li Yujie , Wu Dengqiang
Published: July 2024

Background

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system. PANoptosis is a specific form of inflammatory cell death. It mainly includes pyroptosis, apoptosis and necrotic apoptosis. There is increasing evidence that PANoptosis plays a crucial role in tumour development. However, no pathogenic mechanism associated with PANoptosis in thyroid cancer has been identified.

Methods

Based on the currently identified PANoptosis genes, a dataset of thyroid cancer patients from the GEO database was analysed. To screen the common differentially expressed genes of thyroid cancer and PANoptosis. To analyse the functional characteristics of PANoptosis-related genes (PRGs) and screen key expression pathways. The prognostic model was established by LASSO regression and key genes were identified. The association between hub genes and immune cells was evaluated based on the CIBERSORT algorithm. Predictive models were validated by validation datasets, immunohistochemistry as well as drug-gene interactions were explored.

Results

The results showed that eight key genes (NUAK2, TNFRSF10B, TNFRSF10C, TNFRSF12A, UNC5B, and PMAIP1) exhibited good diagnostic performance in differentiating between thyroid cancer patients and controls. These key genes were associated with macrophages, CD4+ T cells and neutrophils. In addition, PRGs were mainly enriched in the immunomodulatory pathway and TNF signalling pathway. The predictive performance of the model was confirmed in the validation dataset. The DGIdb database reveals 36 potential therapeutic target drugs for thyroid cancer.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that PANoptosis may be involved in immune dysregulation in thyroid cancer by regulating macrophages, CD4+ T cells and activated T and B cells and TNF signalling pathways. This study suggests potential targets and mechanisms for thyroid cancer development.
Case report: Comprehensive follow-up of a Colombian family carrying a novel MEN1 variant linked to a rare ACTH-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Riaño-Moreno Julián C. , González-Clavijo Angélica María , Torres J. William C. , Medina B. Vilma L. , Romero-Rojas Alfredo Ernesto , Vieda-Celemin Isabella , Avila-Moya Jordan A. , Baron-Cardona Johan A. , Bravo-Patiño Juan P. , Torres-Zambrano Oscar S. , Maya Luis Felipe Fierro
Published: July 2024

Background

Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is an autosomal dominant disorder marked by pathogenic variants in the MEN1 tumor suppressor gene, leading to tumors in the parathyroid glands, pancreas, and pituitary. The occurrence of ACTH-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma is exceedingly rare in MEN1.

Case presentation

This report details a Colombian family harboring a novel MEN1 variant identified through genetic screening initiated by the index case. Affected family members exhibited primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) symptoms from their 20s to 50s. Uniquely, the index case developed an ACTH-secreting pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma, a rarity in MEN1 syndromes. Proactive screening enabled the early detection of pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) as microadenomas in two carriers, with subsequent surgical or pharmacological intervention based on the clinical presentation.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore the significance of cascade screening in facilitating the early diagnosis and individualized treatment of MEN1, contributing to better patient outcomes. Additionally, this study brings to light a novel presentation of ACTH-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma within the MEN1 spectrum, expanding our understanding of the disease’s manifestations.
The effect of Chinese herbal medicine on male factor infertility: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wen Qidan , Xu Huanying , Zou Haoxi , Wang Pei , Xing Xiaoyan , Chen Ying , Zhu Qiaoling , Chen Yu , Tan Minhua , Zhang Miaomiao , Pan Ting , Chen Yanfen , Wang Yingju , Wu Suzhen
Published: July 2024

Background

The global prevalence of infertility is 9%, with male factors potentially accounting for 40% to 60% of cases. Conventional treatments can be ineffective, invasive, costly, and linked to adverse effects and high risks. Previous studies have shown that, Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) can regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis axis, improve sperm abnormalities and quality, mitigate oxidative stress, and decrease DNA fragmentation index (DFI). Yet, the evidence backing the use of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for treating male factor infertility lacks conviction due to study design limitations, and there remains a scarcity of studies on the live birth rate following CHM treatment for male factor infertility. Here, we describe the rationale and design of a randomized waitlist-controlled trial to evaluate the effect of CHM on the live birth rate among males with infertility.

Methods

This study is a single-center, randomized, waitlist-controlled study. A total of 250 couples diagnosed with male factor infertility will be enrolled in this study and then randomly allocated into two groups in a 1:1 ratio. Male participants in CHM group (treatment group) will receive CHM once a day for 3 months. Male participants in the waitlist group (control group) will not receive any treatment for 3 months. After 3 months, participants in both groups need to be followed up for another 12 months. The primary outcome will be the live birth rate; secondary outcomes include semen quality parameters, DFI and pregnancy related outcomes. Safety will also be assessed.

Discussion

The purpose of this trial is to explore the effects and safety of CHM on the live birth rate among couples dealing with male factor infertility. The outcome of this trial may provide a viable treatment option for male factor infertility.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2200064416. Registered on 7 October 2022, https://www.chictr.org.cn.
Analysis of safety technical standards for hydrogen storage in fuel cell vehicles
Authors: Zhu Shengqing , Ding Chenglin , Hu Xing , Tian Yupeng
Published: July 2024

Fuel cell vehicles are considered as the direct alternative to fuel vehicles due to their similar driving range and refueling time. The United Nations World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (UN/WP29) released the Global Technical Regulation on Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Vehicles (GTR13) in July 2013, which was the first international regulation in the field of fuel cell vehicles. There exist some differences between GTR13 and the existing safety technical specifications and standards in China. This paper studied the safety requirements of the GTR13 compressed hydrogen storage system, analyzed the current hydrogen storage safety standards for fuel cell vehicles in China, and integrated the advantages of GTR13 to propose relevant suggestions for future revision of hydrogen storage standards for fuel cell vehicle in China.
Benefits of controlled-release fertilizers for potato sustainable nitrogen management
Authors: Xue Huiling , Zheng Xiaofan , Wei Hong , Yang Jing , Alva Ashok , Fan Mingshou , Zhang Ziyi
Published: July 2024

The evaluation of potato response to controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs), as a sole source of nitrogen (N) or as a blend with a soluble N source, is essential to 1) develop the best management recommendations for using CRFs in potato production and 2) provide guidelines to CRF manufacturers for developing an optimal product. This study aimed to evaluate the potato yield and quality responses to N CRFs (polymer-coated urea [PCU]) vs soluble N sources. The experiments were conducted in major potato-growing regions in the United States and China. The current industry-recommended practice of 112 kg N/ha pre-plant soil broadcast of urea plus five in-season fertigations of 224 kg N/ha as urea ammonium nitrate (UAN-32) was compared to a single pre-plant application of 224 kg N/ha as a CRF as the sole source of N or as multiple blends of CRFs and soluble N sources (i.e., urea) at various ratios. The results demonstrated that petiole nitrate_N (NO3_N) levels and tuber yield with single pre-plant broadcast applications of 224 kg N/ha as CRF/urea blends (ratio of 25/75 or 50/50) were similar to those obtained with industry-standard N management practice. N uptake and yield were significantly greater with 220 kg/ha N as the CRF than those with the same N rate as urea. Unlike the current potato industry N practice, using CRFs as either a sole source of N or blended with urea reduces the total N rate and application frequency.
Study on carbon emission characteristics and its influencing factors of energy consumption in Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Li Qiaochu , Chen Junhua , Zhang Peng
Published: July 2024

Clarifying the key sectors and influencing factors of carbon emissions from energy consumption is an important prerequisite for achieving the “carbon peaking and carbon neutrality” goals. This study calculated the carbon emissions of fuel combustion in 7 major departments and regional electricity trading of Sichuan Province from 2000 to 2021, and empirically analyzed the impact of energy structure effect, energy intensity effect, industrial structure effect, economic development level effect, and population size effect on the carbon emissions of energy consumption based on the LMDI model. The main research conclusions are as follows: (1) LMDI model has the advantages of no residual and high interpretation. By refining the multi-departments of energy consumption and different types of fuel, it is helpful to improve the accuracy of empirical analysis results. (2) The carbon emissions of energy consumption mainly come from the fuel combustion process. Specifically, the industry sector composed of steel, building materials, chemicals and machinery is the key emission sector, and transportation and residential life are also vital. Regional electricity trading can indirectly reduce the intensity of carbon emissions while ensuring the safety of energy supply. (3) From 2000 to 2021, the energy intensity effect and the economic development level effect were key factors in slowing down and promoting the carbon emission growth of energy consumption in Sichuan Province, respectively. The population scale effect mainly played a positive role in driving carbon emissions, but the impact is small and almost negligible. Before 2012, the energy structure effect and the industrial structure effect were mainly positive driving effects, and after 2012, they all turned into negative inhibitory effects. This was mainly due to the low-carbon transformation of energy structure and the optimization of industrial structure.
Sjögren’s syndrome and Parkinson’s disease: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yin Xi , Wang Miao , Li Fengzhu , Wang Zhenfu , Gao Zhongbao
Published: July 2024

Background

Previous epidemiological studies have reported an association between Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) and Parkinson’s disease (PD); however, the causality and direction of this relationship remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the causal relationship between genetically determined SS and the risk of PD using bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

Summary statistics for Sjögren’s syndrome used as exposure were obtained from the FinnGen database, comprising 1,290 cases and 213,145 controls. The outcome dataset for PD was derived from the United Kingdom Biobank database, including 6,998 cases and 415,466 controls. Various MR methods, such as inverse variance weighted (IVW), Mendelian randomization Egger regression (MR-Egger), weighted median (WM), simple mode, weighted mode, MR-pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR-PRESSO), and robust adjusted profile score (RAPS), were employed to investigate the causal effects of SS on PD. Instrumental variable strength evaluation and sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure the reliability of the results. In addition, reverse MR analysis was performed to examine the causal effects of PD on SS.

Results

The WM, IVW, RAPS and MR-PRESSO methods demonstrated a significant association between genetically predicted SS and reduced risk of PD (odds ratio ORWM = 0.9988, ORIVW = 0.9987, ORRAPS = 0.9987, ORMR-PRESSO = 0.9987, respectively, P < 0.05). None of the MR analyses showed evidence of horizontal pleiotropy (P > 0.05) based on the MR-Egger and MR-PRESSO tests, and there was no statistical heterogeneity in the test results of the MR-Egger and IVW methods. The leave-one-out sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the causal relationship between SS and PD. Furthermore, reverse MR analysis did not support any causal effects of PD on SS.

Conclusion

Our MR study supports a potential causal association between SS and a reduced risk of PD. Further extensive clinical investigations and comprehensive fundamental research are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms linking SS and PD.
Disparities in burden of herpes simplex virus type 2 in China: systematic review, meta-analyses, and meta-regressions
Authors: Wang Yehua , Yan Xumeng , Ai Wei , Jia Yuanxi , Fan Chengxin , Hu Siyue , Dai Yifan , Xue Huachen , Li Feifei , Tang Weiming
Published: July 2024

Background

The rising prevalence of herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) infection poses a growing global public health challenge. A comprehensive understanding of its epidemiology and burden disparities in China is crucial for informing targeted and effective intervention strategies in the future.

Methods

We followed Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines for a systematic review and included publications published in Chinese and English bibliographic systems until March 31st, 2024. We synthesized HSV-2 seroprevalence data across different population types. We used random-effects models for meta-analyses and conducted meta-regression to assess the association between population characteristics and seroprevalence.

Results

Overall, 23,999 articles were identified, and 402 publications (1,203,362 participants) that reported the overall seroprevalence rates (858 stratified measures) were included. Pooled HSV-2 seroprevalence among the general population (lower risk) was 7.7% (95% CI: 6.8-8.7%). Compared to the general population, there is a higher risk of HSV-2 prevalence among intermediate-risk populations (14.8%, 95% CI: 11.0-19.1%), and key populations (31.7%, 95% CI: 27.4-36.1%). Female sexual workers (FSWs) have the highest HSV-2 risk (ARR:1.69, 95% CI: 1.61-1.78). We found northeastern regions had a higher HSV-2 seroprevalence than other regions (17.0%, 95% CI: 4.3-35.6%, ARR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.26-1.50, Northern China as the reference group). This highlighted the disparity by population risk levels and regions. We also found lower HSV-2 prevalence estimates in publications in Chinese bibliographic databases than those in English databases among key populations (such as MSM and HIV-discordant populations).

Conclusion

There is a gradient increase in HSV-2 prevalence risk stratification. We also identified region, population, and age disparities and heterogeneities by publication language in the HSV-2 burden. This study provides guidance for future HSV-2 prevention to eliminate disparities of HSV-2 infection and reduce overall HSV-2 burden.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=408108, identifier CRD42023408108.
Configuration analysis of marine economic resilience based on 11 coastal provinces of China: an fsQCA approach
Authors: Liu Dong , Huang Zhenyu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The marine economy has played an important role in stabilizing national economic growth and ensuring economic security. Achieving high-quality and sustainable development of the marine economy is a strategic task for China to build a maritime power. Confronting various risk factors such as financial crises, natural disasters, geopolitical conflicts, industrial transformation, and public health security, etc., marine economic resilience (MER) has received widespread attention in recent years and is considered to be crucial for high-quality and sustainable development of the marine economy.

Methods

This study takes 11 coastal provinces in China as cases, integrates 6 condition variables by building a Resistance capability-Recovery capability-Renewal capability (3R) configuration model, and uses the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) approach to empirically explore the configuration effect between multiple land factors and MER.

Results and discussion

(1) None of the 6 conditions in the three dimensions of resistance capability, recovery capability, and renewal capability alone constitute the necessary conditions for strong or weak MER, indicating that a single condition has weak explanatory power for MER; (2) There are two configurations for strong MER: Strong Resistance-Recovery Type and Comprehensive Strong Type. Industrial structure, governmental capability, and digital economy are the core conditions for strong MER configurations; (3) There are four weak MER configurations: Comprehensive Weak Type, Weak Recovery-Renewal Type, Weak Resistance-Recovery Type I, and Weak Resistance-Recovery Type II. This study may expand the research scope of MER influencing factors and enriching the research perspective of land-sea integration, as well as providing decision-makers with practical policy implications.
Effects of dietary hot water extracts of Chlorella vulgaris on muscle component, non-specific immunity, antioxidation, and resistance to non-ionic ammonia stress in Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Zhang Dan , Shi Shuyi , Jia Xuying , Zhou Wenli , Sun Xiaoyu , Han ChaoJie , Lu Yunliang
Published: July 2024

Hot water extract of Chlorella vulgaris (CVE) is a biologically substance that enhances organism’s immune function and antioxidative capacity. This study evaluated the effect of supplementation with various concentrations of CVE on muscle nutritional components, non-specific immunity, antioxidation, and resistance to non-ionic ammonia (NH3-N) stress in Litopenaeus vannamei over 45 days using diets supplemented with CVE at five different concentrations (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%, and 15%). Specifically, fresh and sweet amino acids (Asp, Glu) significantly increased (P < 0.05) in shrimp fed the 1% CVE diet, reaching 18.12 g/kg and 33.08 g/kg, respectively. Bitter amino acids (Leu) and Hypoxanthine (Hx) significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in shrimp fed the 1% CVE diet, at 10.56 g/kg and 10.56 ug/g. CVE supplementary enhanced the activities of acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and nitric oxide synthase while decreasing malondialdehyde levels. Shrimp fed with a 1% CVE diet exhibited significantly higher enzyme activity than the control group under NH3-N conditions (P < 0.05). Overall, this study demonstrated that 1% CVE as a feed additive significantly improved the muscle mass, boosted immunity and reduced the stress response to NH3-N in L. vannamei. This research provides a valuable reference for the application of CVE as a feed additive in crustacean aquaculture.
The resting cyst of dinoflagellate Scrippsiella acuminata host bacterial microbiomes with more diverse trophic strategies under conditions typically observed in marine sediments
Authors: Deng Yunyan , Li Fengting , Shang Lixia , Hu Zhangxi , Yue Caixia , Tang Ying Zhong
Published: July 2024

Variation in the condition of marine sediments provides selective preservation milieus, which act as a key determinant for the abundance and distribution of dinoflagellate resting cysts in natural sediments. Microbial degradation is an understudied biological factor of potential importance in the processes. However, gaps remain in our knowledge about the fundamental information of the bacterial consortia associated with dinoflagellate resting cysts both in laboratory cultures and in the field. Here we used Scrippsiella acuminata as a representative of cyst-producing dinoflagellates to delineate the diversity and composition of bacterial microbiomes co-existing with the laboratory-cultured resting cysts, and to explore possible impacts of low temperature, darkness, and anoxia (the mock conditions commonly observed in marine sediments) on the associated bacterial consortia. Bacterial microbiome with high diversity were revealed associated with S. acuminata at resting stage. The mock conditions could significantly shift bacterial community structure and exert notably inhibitory effects on growth-promoting bacteria. Resting cysts under conditions typically observed in marine sediments fostered bacterial microbiomes with more diverse trophic strategies, characteristic of prominently enriched anaerobic chemotrophic bacteria generating energy via respiration with several different terminal electron acceptors, which yielded more acidic milieu unfavorable for the preservation of calcareous resting cysts. Our findings suggest that there is complex and dynamic interaction between dinoflagellates resting cysts and the associated bacterial consortia in natural sediments. This intrinsic interaction may influence the maintenance and/or accumulation of dinoflagellate resting cysts with potential of germination and initiation blooms in the field.
Fungicide resistance in Botrytis cinerea and identification of Botrytis species associated with blueberry in Michigan
Authors: Abbey Joel A. , Alzohairy Safa A. , Neugebauer Kerri A. , Hatlen Ross J. , Miles Timothy D.
Published: July 2024

Botrytis blossom blight and fruit rot, caused by Botrytis cinerea, is a significant threat to blueberries, potentially resulting in substantial economic losses if not effectively managed. Despite the recommendation of various cultural and chemical practices to control this pathogen, there are widespread reports of fungicide resistance, leading to decreased efficacy. This study aimed to characterize the resistance profile of B. cinerea isolated from blighted blossoms and fruit in 2019, 2020 and 2022 (n = 131, 40, and 37 for the respective years). Eight fungicides (fludioxonil, thiabendazole, pyraclostrobin, boscalid, fluopyram, fenhexamid, iprodione, and cyprodinil) were tested using conidial germination at specific discriminatory doses. Additionally, 86 isolates were phylogenetically characterized using the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) and the protein coding genes: glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), heat-shock protein 60 (HSP60), and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (RPB2). This revealed higher fungicide resistance frequencies in 2020 and 2022 compared to 2019. Over all 3 years, over 80% of the isolates were sensitive to fludioxonil, fluopyram, and fenhexamid. Pyraclostrobin and boscalid showed the lowest sensitivity frequencies (<50%). While multi-fungicide resistance was observed in all the years, none of the isolates demonstrated simultaneous resistance to all tested fungicides. Botrytis cinerea was the most prevalent species among the isolates (74) with intraspecific diversity detected by the genes. Two isolates were found to be closely related to B. fabiopsis, B. galanthina, and B. caroliniana and 10 isolates appeared to be an undescribed species. This study reports the discovery of a potentially new species sympatric with B. cinerea on blueberries in Michigan.
Deleting an xylosidase-encoding gene VdxyL3 increases growth and pathogenicity of Verticillium dahlia
Authors: Li Yongtai , Song Shenglong , Chen Bin , Zhang Yong , Sun Tiange , Ma Xiaohu , Li Yanjun , Sun Jie , Zhang Xinyu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Verticillium dahliae causes a devastating Verticillium wilt disease on hundreds of plant species worldwide, including cotton. Understanding the interaction mechanism between V. dahliae and its hosts is the prerequisite for developing effective strategies for disease prevention.

Methods

Here, based on the previous observation of an xylosidase-encoding gene (VdxyL3) in V. dahliae being obviously up-regulated after sensing root exudates from a cotton variety susceptible to this pathogen, we investigated the function of VdxyL3 in the growth and pathogenesis of V. dahliae by generating its deletion-mutant strains (ΔVdxyL3).

Results

Deleting VdxyL3 led to increased colony expansion rate, conidial production, mycelial growth, carbon and nitrogen utilization capacities, and enhanced stress tolerance and pathogenicity of V. dahliae. VdxyL3 is a secretory protein; however, VdxyL3 failed to induce cell death in N. benthamiana based on transient expression experiment. Transcriptomic analysis identified 1300 genes differentially expressed (DEGs) between wild-type (Vd952) and ΔVdxyL3 during infection, including 348 DEGs encoding secretory proteins, among which contained 122 classical secreted proteins and 226 non-classical secreted proteins. It was notable that of the 122 classical secretory proteins, 50 were carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) and 58 were small cysteine rich proteins (SCRPs), which were required for the pathogenicity of V. dahliae.

Conclusion

The RNA-seq data thus potentially connected the genes encoding these proteins to the pathogenesis of V. dahliae. This study provides an experimental basis for further studies on the interaction between V. dahliae and cotton and the pathogenic mechanism of the fungus.