bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Menjelajahi Museum Kartini pada Bahan Ajar Materi Bangun Datar Segi Empat
Authors: Rahmatillah Cici Rayagura , Maulida Nisa Farah , Isnaini Musdalifah Asti Nur , Utami Tri Mega , Maghfiroh Laelatul , Ardiansyah Adi Satrio
Published: August 2023

Abstrak. Salah satu faktor yang menyebabkan rendahnya hasil belajar siswa adalah penggunaan bahan ajar yang kurang kontekstual, sehingga dibutuhkan bahan ajar kontekstual yang disajikan secara menarik. Salah satunya adalah dengan mengimplementasikan etnomatematika ke dalam bahan ajar. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengembangkan bahan ajar berbasis etnomatematika pada Museum Kartini untuk meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa materi bangun datar segi empat. Metode yang digunakan merupakan modifikasi dari model 4D menjadi tiga tahap saja, yaitu: tahap pendefinisian (define), tahap perancangan (design), dan tahap pengembangan (develop). Bahan ajar ini divalidasi oleh dua ahli dan dua praktisi untuk peninjauan kelayakan bahan ajar yang dikembangkan. Uji coba pengembangan produk ditujukan kepada tiga siswa SMP kelas VII, VIII, dan IX sebagai sasaran pengguna bahan ajar dan lima mahasiswa sesuai kriteria sebagai pengamat atas keterbacaan bahan ajar. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa bahan ajar ini sangat layak, mudah dipahami, dan mendapat respons yang sangat baik dari siswa. Dengan demikian, produk ini dapat diimplementasikan dalam pembelajaran matematika.Kata kunci: Bahan Ajar, Etnomatematika, Hasil Belajar Siswa, Museum Kartini.
Proses Berpikir Reflektif Siswa Menyelesaikan Masalah Bangun Ruang Sisi Lengkung Berdasarkan Taksonomi SOLO
Authors: Fitriani Fitriani , Nurhanurawati Nurhanurawati
Published: August 2023

Abstrak. Siswa sering merasa kesulitan dalammenyelesaikan masalah matematika soal cerita. Pemecahan masalah bangun ruang sisi lengkung memerlukan proses berpikir tingkat tinggi karena dibutuhkan analisis dan pemahaman konsep yang tidak hanya terfokus pada hafalan rumus. Salah satu upaya mengoptimalkan kemampuan berpikir siswa yaitu menggunakan kemampuan berpikir reflektif. Penelitian ini bertujuan mendeskripsikan proses berpikir reflektif siswa dalam memecahkan masalah bangun ruang sisi lengkung berdasarkan taksonomi SOLO. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan memberikan tes dan wawancara. Teknik pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan cara: (1) mereduksi data; (2) menyajikan data, dan (3) menarik kesimpulan. Prosedur dalam penelitian ada tiga tahap, yaitu persiapan, pelaksanaan, dan penyelesaian. Subjek dipilih dengan teknik purposive sample. Berdasarkan analisis berpikir reflektif diperoleh tiga kelompok siswa yaitu: (1) siswa kelompok atas; (2) siswa kelompok tengah; dan (3) siswa kelompok bawah. Hasil menunjukkan kelompok atas dapat melakukan proses berpikir reflektif pada semua tahapan pemecahan masalah dan memenuhi level relational dan extended abstrak taksonomi SOLO. Kelompok tengah dapat melakukan proses berpikir reflektif sampai tahap Elaborating dan sampai pada level relational. Kelompok bawah hanya memenuhi fase Reacting dalam proses berpikir reflektif dan hanya sampai level prestuctural.Kata Kunci: Proses Berpikir, Reflektif, Taksonomi SOLO.
Pengembangan E-LKPD Berbasis PBL Dalam Meningkatkan Kemampuan Komunikasi Matematis
Authors: Siregar Ummu Habibah , Suparman Suparman
Published: August 2023

Tujuaan penelitian ini adalah Pengembangkan Eâ€“LKPD berbasis model PBL (Problem Based Learning) untuk meningkatkan kemampuan komunikasi matematis pada materi aljabar. Penelitian ini menerapkan jenis penelitian pengembangan ADDIE. Eâ€“LKPD diuji cobakan di SMP Swasta Muhammadiyah 29 Padangsidimpuan pada kelas VII. Instrumen yang digunakan merupakan penilaian dari ahli materi dan media, respon peserta didik terhadap produk menggunakan angket kebergunaan, dan hasil pengerjaan Eâ€“LKPD. Aktivitas pembelajaran dalam Eâ€“LKPD disesuaikan dengan sintak PBL dan indikator kemampuan komunikasi matematis. Hasil dari penelitian ini pada tahap pengembangan, produk dikembangkan dan diuji melalui validasi ahli materi dan media, diperoleh nilai rata-rata validasi yaitu 86,33% berdasarkan aspek kelayakan materi 77,5%, kelayakan penyajian 88%, kelayakan keterbacaan 90%, kelayakan kebahasaan 87,5%, aspek komunikasi matematis dan aspek langkah PBL 87,5%. HasilÂ  Respon siswa menggunakan angket kebergunaan menunjukkan bahwa rata-rata untuk masing masing aspek adalah 3,11 (usefulness), 3,12 (ease of use), 3,25 (ease of learn), dan 3.00 (satisfaction) dengan skala maksimum 4. Rata-rata untuk semua kategori adalah 3,12 yang berati bahwa aplikasi ini praktis untuk digunakan. Dan untuk hasil efektifitas diperoleh hasil ketuntasan belajar siswa sebesar 71,43% dengan kategori baik, Sehingga E-LKPD berbasis model Problem Based Learning layak digunakan dan efektif untuk meningkatkan komunikasi matematis siswa
Komunikasi Matematis Peserta Didik SMP dalam Memecahkan Masalah Sistem Persamaan Linear Dua Variabel
Authors: Refwalu Megaria , Mataheru Wilmintjie , Laamena Christina Martha
Published: August 2023

Komunikasi matematis merupakan kecakapan peserta didik dalam menyampaikan ide-ide matematisnya, baik secara tulisan maupun lisan. Komunikasi matematis diperlukan dalam pembelajaran matematika, terutama saat memecahkan masalah matematika. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan komunikasi matematis peserta didik kelas VIII di salah satu SMP Negeri Kota Ambon dalam menyelesaikan masalah sistem persamaan linier dua variabel, dengan jenis penelitian deskriptif kualitatif. Sumber data, yaitu pendidik matematika dan peserta didiknya. Subjek yang dipilih berdasarkan hasil tes berjumlah 3 orang yaitu 1 subjek dengan nilai matematika tinggi, 1 subjek dengan nilai matematika sedang, dan 1 subjek dengan nilai matematika rendah. Data dikumpulkan menggunakan tes tertulis yang memuat 3 butir soal uraian dan hasil wawancara.Â  Data dianalisis melalui tahapan reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa subjek T (subjek berkemampuan tinggi) memenuhi semua indikator komunikasi matematis tulisan dan lisan, subjek S (subjek berkemampuan sedang) memenuhi 2 indikator komunikasi matematis tulisan dan lisan, dan subjek R (subjek berkemampuan rendah) hanya memenuhi indikator kemampuan memahami ide-ide matematis secara lisan. Rekomendasi kepada pendidik matematika di sekolah agar dapat menumbuhkembangkan komunikasi matematis peserta didik dan membiasakan peserta didik menggunakan langkah-langkah pemecahan masalah Polya dalam menyelesaikan persoalan matematika.Â
Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Peserta Didik dalam Pendekatan Comprehensive Mathematics Instruction
Authors: Wijayanti Nila Sri , Maulana Maulana , Isrok'atun Isrok'atun
Published: August 2023

Abstrak. Rendahnya kemampuan peserta didik dalam memecahkan masalah melatarbelakangi dilakukannya penelitian ini. Alternatif upaya untuk menyelesaikan masalah tersebut salah satunya dengan menerapkan pendekatan Comprehensive Mathematics Instruction (CMI). Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu pengaruh pendekatan CMI terhadap pemecahan masalah peserta didik. Digunakan metode pre-eksperimen dengan populasi yang diambil adalah peserta didik kelas V SD di Kabupeten Sumedang. Teknik pengambilan sampel melalui teknik purposive sampling, digunakan satu kelas sebagai sampel penelitian yang berjumlah 28 orang. Tes kemampuan pemecahan masalah adalah instrument yang digunakan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan pendekatan CMI memberikan pengaruh positif terhadap kemampuan pemecahan masalah peserta didik.Kata Kunci: Pemecahan Masalah, Comprehensive Mathematics Instruction (CMI), Peserta Didik.
Analisis Buku Teks Matematika SMP/MTs Berdasarkan Objek Kajian Matematika Materi Aritmetika Sosial
Authors: Hidayat Rahmad , Usodo Budi
Published: August 2023

Abstrak. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui jenis kesalahan pada buku teks matematika untuk siswa SMP Kelas II Semester 2 kurikulum 2013 berdasarkan objek matematika. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif. Subjek dari penelitian ini buku teks matematika siswa SMP kurikulum 2013. Teknis analisis data yang digunakan meliputi reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Data yang sudah di analisis akan dilakukan proses penyelesaian alternatif yang digunakan untuk meminimalkan kesalahan pada buku teks matematika. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa dalam buku teks matematika siswa SMP masih terdapat kesalahan dari segi fakta, konsep, prinsip, dan operasi. Kesalahan ini diberikan solusi alternatif dalam perbaikan buku teks matematika siswa SMP. Solusi yang diberikan dalam analisis ini dengan memberikan arahan dan tambahan sebuah ilustrasi yang mendukung dalam pemahaman materi buku teks matematika. Hasil dari analisis menyarankan bahwa penting bagi penulis buku dalam merancang buku dengan sebaiknya dan secara detail dalam proses penyusunanÂ  dan siswa atau pembaca perlu ketelitian dalam memahami buku yang dibaca, sehingga dapat meminimalkan kesalahan konsepsi dalam proses pemahaman buku teks matematika SMP Kelas VII Semester 2 kurikulum 2013.Kata Kunci: Analisis Buku, Buku Matematika Siswa, Objek Matematika.
Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis Kelompok MIPA dan Kelompok IPS Pada Kurikulum 2013
Authors: Sutisna Eki , Novaliyosi Novaliyosi , Hendrayana Aan , Muttaqin Anwar
Published: August 2023

Abstrak. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mendeskripsikan kemampuan pemecahan masalah siswa pada materi dimensi tiga ditinjau dari tahapan Polya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian deskriptif kualitatif. Subjek dalam penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas XII berjumlah 4 siswa terdiri dari 2 siswa laki-laki dan 2 siswa perempuan. Pemilihan subjek penelitian menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa setiap siswa memiliki cara tersendiri dalam proses memecahkan masalah. Seluruh siswa sudah mampu melalui tahapan pemecahan masalah menurut Polya yaitu: memahami masalah, merencanakan penyelesaian, melaksanakan rencana, dan memeriksa kembali proses dan hasil meskipun masih terdapat kekurangan dalam prosesnya. Selain itu, jika siswa dibagi ke dalam kelompok belajar, siswa MIPA tampil lebih baik daripada siswa IPS. Sedangkan jika dikategorikan berdasarkan gender, siswa perempuan memiliki kemampuan pemecahan masalah yang lebih baik dibandingkan dengan siswa laki laki.Kata Kunci: Pemecahan Masalah Polya, Dimensi Tiga, MIPA IPS, Kurikulum 2013.
IN SILICO PREDICTION OF BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF BROMO DERIVATIVES OF HYDROACRIDINES
Authors: Farat Oleg , Varenichenko Svetlana , Markov Victor , Yanova Karolina
Published: August 2023

The aim of the work was to establish the spect­rum of biological activity of new derivatives of 9-bromo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroacridine due to the limi­ted amount of literature data. In silico prediction of selected bromo-derivatives of hydrogenated acridines was performed using the SuperPred 3.0 web resource. The obtained results were compared with the results of prediction of active drugs that contain the acridine cycle in their structure - Tacrine, Amiridine and Amsacrine. Results ≤80% were taken into account. The most promising compound was 9-bromo-1,2,3,4-tetra­hydro­acridine. A common predicted target for bro­mide-hydrogenated acridines and all three drugs is DNA-(apurine or apyrimidine site) lyase with binding probabilities ranging from 82-97.5%. Common predicted targets for 9-bromo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroacridine derivatives, Tacrine and Amsacrine are butyrylcholinesterase (90.4-98.2%) and transcription factor 1-α (92.02-98.01 %). Cathepsin D, toll-like receptor 8 and glucose transporter are promising common targets for further research, but it should be noted that the probability of binding in these drugs was below 80%. All selected compounds were tested for Lipinski's criteria. In addition, in silico prediction of the acute toxicity of bromo-derivatives of acridine was performed in rats with four types of administration. The safest compound according to the oral method of administration is the compound 9-bromo-2-tert-butyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahyd­ro­ac­ridine (1570 mg/kg), while the compound 9-bromo-1,2 turned out to be more toxic than the others ,3,4-tetrahydroacridine (565.3 mg/kg). The estimated average lethal dose of Tacrine after a single oral dose to rats is 40 mg/kg. The prediction results confirmed the prospects of further research among the class of hydrogenated bromoderivatives of acridines.
Assessment of the Chronotypes of Nurses Working in Shifts and the Quality of Their Lives
Authors: BÜLBÜL Elif , ÇELİK Selda , ÖZKAN Asibe , AKBAŞ Gonca
Published: August 2023

Objective: This research was conducted to identify the relationship between the chronotypes of nurses working in shifts and the quality of their lives.

Methods: The research sample that was designed as a descriptive study comprised 267 nurses working in shifts. The research data were collected with the descriptive survey form, the Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire, and the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36).

Results: As per the breakdown of the nurses by chronotype, 68.9% of the nurses were intermediate-type (n=184), 15.7% of the nurses were morning-type (n=42), and 15.4% of the nurses were evening-type (n=41). The evening-type nurses had a higher number of night shifts than the morning-type nurses (p
Role of the whitefly maturation period on mosaic disease propagation in Jatropha curcas plant
Authors: Basir Fahad Al
Published: August 2023

Mosaic disease in Jatropha curcas plants is caused by begomoviruses carried by whitefly vectors, and only mature vectors can transmit the virus. In this study, a mathematical model is developed for the dynamic analysis of the spread of mosaic disease in the J. curcas plantation, accounting for the whitefly maturation period as a time delay factor. The existence conditions and stability of the equilibrium points have been studied with qualitative theory. The basic reproduction number, R0, is determined to study the stability of the disease-free equilibrium with respect to it. Transcritical bifurcation of the disease-free equilibrium and Hopf bifurcation of the endemic equilibrium are also analyzed. Using numerical simulations, the analytical findings are verified and discussed the different dynamical behaviors of the system. In this research, the stabilizing role of maturation delay has been established. That means when maturation time is large, disease will be transmitted when the infection rate is high.
Effect of pro-inflammatory cytokine priming and storage temperature of the mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) secretome on equine articular chondrocytes
Authors: Jammes Manon , Contentin Romain , Audigié Fabrice , Cassé Frédéric , Galéra Philippe
Published: August 2023

Context: Osteoarthritis (OA) is an invalidating articular disease characterized by cartilage degradation and inflammatory events. In horses, OA is associated with up to 60% of lameness and leads to reduced animal welfare along with extensive economic losses; currently, there are no curative therapies to treat OA. The mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) secretome exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it an attractive candidate for improving the management of OA. In this study, we determined the best storage conditions for conditioned media (CMs) and tested whether priming MSCs with cytokines can enhance the properties of the MSC secretome.

Methods: First, properties of CMs collected from bone-marrow MSC cultures and stored at −80°C, −20°C, 4°C, 20°C or 37°C were assessed on 3D cultures of equine articular chondrocytes (eACs). Second, we primed MSCs with IL-1β, TNF-α or IFN-γ, and evaluated the MSC transcript levels of immunomodulatory effectors and growth factors. The primed CMs were also harvested for subsequent treatment of eACs, either cultured in monolayers or as 3D cell cultures. Finally, we evaluated the effect of CMs on the proliferation and the phenotype of eACs and the quality of the extracellular matrix of the neosynthesized cartilage.

Results: CM storage at −80°C, −20°C, and 4°C improved collagen protein accumulation, cell proliferation and the downregulation of inflammation. The three cytokines chosen for the MSC priming influenced MSC immunomodulator gene expression, although each cytokine led to a different pattern of MSC immunomodulation. The cytokine-primed CM had no major effect on eAC proliferation, with IL-1β and TNF-α slightly increasing collagen (types IIB and I) accumulation in eAC 3D cultures (particularly with the CM derived from MSCs primed with IL-1β), and IFN-γ leading to a marked decrease. IL-1β-primed CMs resulted in increased eAC transcript levels of MMP1, MMP13 and HTRA1, whereas IFNγ-primed CMs decreased the levels of HTRA1 and MMP13.

Conclusion: Although the three cytokines differentially affected the expression of immunomodulatory molecules, primed CMs induced a distinct effect on eACs according to the cytokine used for MSC priming. Different mechanisms seemed to be triggered by each priming cytokine, highlighting the need for further investigation. Nevertheless, this study demonstrates the potential of MSC-CMs for improving equine OA management.
Flow-cytometric cell sorting coupled with UV mutagenesis for improving pectin lyase expression
Authors: Fang Ke , Ma Jun , Wang Xinyu , Xu Ziting , Zhang Ziyang , Li Piwu , Wang Ruiming , Wang Junqing , Sun Chuying , Dong Ziyang
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Alkaline pectin lyase is an important enzyme with a wide range of applications in industrial production, It has been widely used in many important fields such as fruit juice processing and extraction, the dyeing and processing of cotton and linen textiles, degumming plant fibers, environmental industrial wastewater treatment, and pulp and paper production. PGLA-rep4 was previously generated as a modified alkaline pectin lyase with high specific activity at pH 11.0°C and 70°C. However, the pre-constructed high-activity pectin lyase expression strains are still difficult to apply in industrial production due to their limited enzymatic activity. We hope to solve these problems by combining modern breeding techniques with high-throughput equipment to rapidly screen alkaline pectin lyase with higher enzymatic activity and lower cost.

Methods: We fused the genes encoding PGLA-rep4 and fluorescent protein egfp using a flexible linker peptide and ligated them into a temperature-sensitive plasmid, pKD46. The constructed screening plasmid pKD46-PGLA-rep4-egfp was then transformed into an expression host and screened via flow-cytometric cell sorting coupled with UV mutagenesis.

Results: Following mutagenesis, primary screening, and secondary screening, the high-expression strain, named Escherichia coli BL21/1G3, was obtained. The screening plasmid pKD46-PGLA-rep4-egfp was eliminated, and the original expression plasmid pET28a-PGLA-rep4 was then retransformed into the mutant strains. After induction and fermentation, pectin lyase activity in E. coli BL21/1G3 was significantly increased (1.37-fold relative to that in the parental E. coli BL21/PGLA-rep4 strain, p < 0.001), and the highest activity was 230, 240 U/mL at 144 h. Genome sequencing revealed that genes encoding ribonuclease E (RNase E) and diadenosine tetraphosphatase (ApaH) of E. coli BL21/1G3 were mutated compared to the sequence in the original E. coli BL21 (DE3) strain, which could be associated with increased enzyme expression.

Discussion: Our work provides an effective method for the construction of strains expressing pectin lyase at high levels.
Treatment strategies for intrauterine adhesion: focus on the exosomes and hydrogels
Authors: Wu Fengling , Lei Ningjing , Yang Shenyu , Zhou Junying , Chen Mengyu , Chen Cheng , Qiu Luojie , Guo Ruixia , Li Yong , Chang Lei
Published: August 2023

Intrauterine adhesion (IUA), also referred to as Asherman Syndrome (AS), results from uterine trauma in both pregnant and nonpregnant women. The IUA damages the endometrial bottom layer, causing partial or complete occlusion of the uterine cavity. This leads to irregular menstruation, infertility, or repeated abortions. Transcervical adhesion electroreception (TCRA) is frequently used to treat IUA, which greatly lowers the prevalence of adhesions and increases pregnancy rates. Although surgery aims to disentangle the adhesive tissue, it can exacerbate the development of IUA when the degree of adhesion is severer. Therefore, it is critical to develop innovative therapeutic approaches for the prevention of IUA. Endometrial fibrosis is the essence of IUA, and studies have found that the use of different types of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can reduce the risk of endometrial fibrosis and increase the possibility of pregnancy. Recent research has suggested that exosomes derived from MSCs can overcome the limitations of MSCs, such as immunogenicity and tumorigenicity risks, thereby providing new directions for IUA treatment. Moreover, the hydrogel drug delivery system can significantly ameliorate the recurrence rate of adhesions and the intrauterine pregnancy rate of patients, and its potential mechanism in the treatment of IUA has also been studied. It has been shown that the combination of two or more therapeutic schemes has broader application prospects; therefore, this article reviews the pathophysiology of IUA and current treatment strategies, focusing on exosomes combined with hydrogels in the treatment of IUA. Although the use of exosomes and hydrogels has certain challenges in treating IUA, they still provide new promising directions in this field.
Sin3a associated protein 130 kDa, sap130, plays an evolutionary conserved role in zebrafish heart development
Authors: DeMoya Ricardo A. , Forman-Rubinsky Rachel E. , Fontaine Deon , Shin Joseph , Watkins Simon C. , Lo Cecilia W. , Tsang Michael
Published: August 2023

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a congenital heart disease where the left ventricle is reduced in size. A forward genetic screen in mice identified SIN3A associated protein 130 kDa (Sap130), part of the chromatin modifying SIN3A/HDAC complex, as a gene contributing to the etiology of HLHS. Here, we report the role of zebrafish sap130 genes in heart development. Loss of sap130a, one of two Sap130 orthologs, resulted in smaller ventricle size, a phenotype reminiscent to the hypoplastic left ventricle in mice. While cardiac progenitors were normal during somitogenesis, diminution of the ventricle size suggest the Second Heart Field (SHF) was the source of the defect. To explore the role of sap130a in gene regulation, transcriptome profiling was performed after the heart tube formation to identify candidate pathways and genes responsible for the small ventricle phenotype. Genes involved in cardiac differentiation and cardiac function were dysregulated in sap130a, but not in sap130b mutants. Confocal light sheet analysis measured deficits in cardiac output in MZsap130a supporting the notion that cardiomyocyte maturation was disrupted. Lineage tracing experiments revealed a significant reduction of SHF cells in the ventricle that resulted in increased outflow tract size. These data suggest that sap130a is involved in cardiogenesis via regulating the accretion of SHF cells to the growing ventricle and in their subsequent maturation for cardiac function. Further, genetic studies revealed an interaction between hdac1 and sap130a, in the incidence of small ventricles. These studies highlight the conserved role of Sap130a and Hdac1 in zebrafish cardiogenesis.
In host evolution of beta lactam resistance during active treatment for Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia
Authors: Spottiswoode Natasha , Hao Samantha , Sanchez-Guerrero Estella , Detweiler Angela M. , Mekonen Honey , Neff Norma , Macmillan Henriette , Schwartz Brian S. , Engel Joanne , DeRisi Joseph L. , Miller Steven A. , Langelier Charles R.
Published: August 2023

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been declared a serious threat by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here, we used whole genome sequencing (WGS) to investigate recurrent P. aeruginosa bloodstream infections in a severely immunocompromised patient. The infections demonstrated unusual, progressive increases in resistance to beta lactam antibiotics in the setting of active treatment with appropriate, guideline-directed agents. WGS followed by comparative genomic analysis of isolates collected over 44 days demonstrated in host evolution of a single P. aeruginosa isolate characterized by stepwise acquisition of two de-novo genetic resistance mechanisms over the course of treatment. We found a novel deletion affecting the ampC repressor ampD and neighboring gene ampE, which associated with initial cefepime treatment failure. This was followed by acquisition of a porin nonsense mutation, OprD, associated with resistance to carbapenems. This study highlights the potential for in-host evolution of P. aeruginosa during bloodstream infections in severely immunocompromised patients despite appropriate antimicrobial therapy. In addition, it demonstrates the utility of WGS for understanding unusual resistance patterns in the clinical context.
Unveiling the stealthy tactics: mycoplasma’s immune evasion strategies
Authors: Wang Jingyun , Liang Keying , Chen Li , Su Xiaoling , Liao Daoyong , Yu Jianwei , He Jun
Published: August 2023

Mycoplasmas, the smallest known self-replicating organisms, possess a simple structure, lack a cell wall, and have limited metabolic pathways. They are responsible for causing acute or chronic infections in humans and animals, with a significant number of species exhibiting pathogenicity. Although the innate and adaptive immune responses can effectively combat this pathogen, mycoplasmas are capable of persisting in the host, indicating that the immune system fails to eliminate them completely. Recent studies have shed light on the intricate and sophisticated defense mechanisms developed by mycoplasmas during their long-term co-evolution with the host. These evasion strategies encompass various tactics, including invasion, biofilm formation, and modulation of immune responses, such as inhibition of immune cell activity, suppression of immune cell function, and resistance against immune molecules. Additionally, antigen variation and molecular mimicry are also crucial immune evasion strategies. This review comprehensively summarizes the evasion mechanisms employed by mycoplasmas, providing valuable insights into the pathogenesis of mycoplasma infections.
A 7-year review of clinical characteristics, predisposing factors and outcomes of post-keratoplasty infectious keratitis: the Nottingham infectious keratitis study
Authors: Ong Zun Zheng , Wong Thai Ling , Suresh Lakshmi , Hammoudeh Yasmeen , Lister Michelle , Said Dalia G. , Dua Harminder S. , Ting Darren S. J.
Published: August 2023

Background/objectives

Post-keratoplasty infectious keratitis (PKIK) is a unique sight-threatening clinical entity which often poses significant therapeutic challenges. This study aimed to examine the clinical presentation, risk factors, management, and clinical outcomes of PKIK.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of all patients who presented to the Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, with PKIK between September 2015 and August 2022 (a 7-year period). Relevant data on types of keratoplasty, clinical presentations, causative microorganisms, management, and outcome were analyzed.

Results

Forty-nine PKIK cases, including four cases of interface infectious keratitis, were identified during the study period. The most common graft indications for PKP, DALK and EK were failed grafts (9, 37.5%), keratoconus (6, 54.5%) and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD; 8, 57.1%), respectively. Staphylococcus spp. were the most commonly identified organisms (15, 50.0%). Bullous keratopathy (18, 36.7%), ocular surface disease (18, 36.7%), and broken/loose sutures (15, 30.6%) were the most common risk factors. Concurrent use of topical steroids was identified in 25 (51.0%) cases. Of 31 functioning grafts at presentation, 12 (38.7%) grafts failed at final follow-up with 15 (48.4%) patients retaining a CDVA of ≥1.0 logMAR. The overall estimated 5-year survival rate post-PKIK was 55.9% (95% CI, 35.9%-75.9%), with DALK having the highest survival rate [63.6% (95% CI, 28.9%-98.3%)], followed by EK [57.1% (95% CI, 20.4%-93.8%)] and PKP [52.7% (95% CI, 25.1%-80.3%)], though no statistical difference was observed (p=0.48).

Conclusions

PKIK represents an important cause of IK and graft failure. Bullous keratopathy, OSD and suture-related complications are the commonest risk factors, highlighting the potential benefit of prophylactic topical antibiotics (for unhealthy ocular surface) and early suture removal (where possible) in reducing the risk of PKIK. Graft survival may be higher in lamellar keratoplasty following PKIK but larger studies are required to elucidate this observation.
Interplay between TRIM7 and antiviral immunity
Authors: Liu Yiyang , Jiang Lu , Sun Xuemeng , Song Yixuan , Liu Yihan , Zhang Leiliang
Published: August 2023

TRIM7 has been demonstrated to have significant roles in promoting host defense against viral infections and regulating immune signaling pathways. As an E3 ubiquitin ligase, it catalyzes the ubiquitination of various substrates, including adaptor proteins (MAVS and STING) and transcription factors (NF-κB and IRF3), thereby exerting positive or negative regulation on immune signal pathways. However, viruses have developed immune evasion mechanisms to counteract TRIM7. Some viruses can inhibit TRIM7 function by targeting it for degradation or sequestering it away from its targets. Moreover, TRIM7 may even facilitate viral infection by ubiquitinating viral proteins, including envelope proteins that are critical for tissue and species tropism. A comprehensive understanding of the interaction between TRIM7 and antiviral immunity is crucial for the development of innovative treatments for viral diseases.
Visual displays for communicating scientific uncertainty in influenza forecasts
Authors: Yang Yanran , Wong-Parodi Gabrielle , Fischhoff Baruch
Published: August 2023

We offer a general method for testing the usability of visual displays communicating scientific uncertainty, illustrated with publicly available results from CDC's influenza forecasts. The heavy toll of seasonal influenza has prompted major investments in improving these forecasts, making them a focus of machine learning research. However, little research has been devoted to how well users can understand and use these forecasts to inform decisions under uncertainty. Our approach extends psychological theory to experimental tasks posing hypothetical, but realistic decisions using alternative displays based on actual forecasts. Based on Tversky's theory of conceptual-spatial congruence, we predicted actual and perceived usability of four displays (bar chart, tree map, PDF, and 90% confidence interval). Participants (N = 301, recruited on Amazon MTurk) were randomly assigned to use one of four displays for four decision tasks, created to reflect our extension of the theory. We evaluated participants' comprehension, confidence, and judgments of perceived helpfulness, when the display and the decision were congruent or non-congruent. Participants had better comprehension with the most familiar display (bar chart), for all four decisions. However, they did not perceive that display as more helpful or have greater confidence in their responses to it. Participants who reported greater familiarity with a display performed more poorly, despite expressing greater confidence and rating it as more helpful. We discuss the need to evaluate performance, as well as ratings, and the opportunities to extend theoretical frameworks to specific contexts.
Quantitative flow ratio-based outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation quaestio study
Authors: Demola Pierluigi , Colaiori Iginio , Bosi Davide , Musto D’Amore Sergio , Vitolo Marco , Benatti Giorgio , Vignali Luigi , Tadonio Iacopo , Gabbieri Davide , Losi Luciano , Magnavacchi Paolo , Sgura Fabio Alfredo , Boriani Giuseppe , Guiducci Vincenzo
Published: August 2023

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is common in patients with aortic valve stenosis (AS) ranging from 60% to 80%. The clinical and prognostic role of coronary artery lesions in patients undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) remains unclear. The aim of the present observational study was to estimate long-term clinical outcomes by Quantitative Flow Ratio (QFR) characterization of CAD in a well-represented cohort of patients affected by severe AS treated by TAVI.

Methods

A total of 439 invasive coronary angiographies of patients deemed eligible for TAVI by local Heart Teams with symptomatic severe AS were retrospectively screened for QFR analysis. The primary endpoint of the study was all-cause mortality. The secondary endpoint was a composite of cardiovascular mortality, stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and any hospitalization after TAVI.

Results

After exclusion of patients with no follow-up data, coronary angiography not feasible for QFR analysis and previous surgical myocardial revascularization (CABG) 48/239 (20.1%) patients had a QFR value lower or equal to 0.80 (QFR + value), while the remaining 191/239 (79.9%) did not present any vessel with a QFR positive value. In the adjusted Cox regression analysis, patients with positive QFR were independently associated with an increased risk of all-casual mortality (Model 1, HR 3.47, 95% CI, 2.35−5.12; Model 2, HR 5.01, 95% CI, 3.17−7.90). In the adjusted covariate analysis, QFR+ involving LAD (37/48, 77,1%) was associated with the higher risk of the composite outcome compared to patients without any positive value of QFR or non-LAD QFR positive value (11/48, 22.9%).

Conclusions

Pre-TAVI QFR analysis can be used for a safe, simple, wireless functional assessment of CAD. QFR permits to identify patients at high risk of cardiovascular mortality or MACE, and it could be considered by local Heart Teams.
Revisiting treatment-related cardiotoxicity in patients with malignant lymphoma—a review and prospects for the future
Authors: Rihackova Eva , Rihacek Michal , Vyskocilova Maria , Valik Dalibor , Elbl Lubomir
Published: August 2023

Treatment of malignant lymphoma has for years been represented by many cardiotoxic agents especially anthracyclines, cyclophosphamide, and thoracic irradiation. Although they are in clinical practice for decades, the precise mechanism of cardiotoxicity and effective prevention is still part of the research. At this article we discuss most routinely used anti-cancer drugs in chemotherapeutic regiments for malignant lymphoma with the focus on novel insight on molecular mechanisms of cardiotoxicity. Understanding toxicity at molecular levels may unveil possible targets of cardioprotective supportive therapy or optimization of current therapeutic protocols. Additionally, we review novel specific targeted therapy and its challenges in cardio-oncology.
The association of central and extremity circumference with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality: a cohort study
Authors: Liu Jiajun , Jin Xueshan , Feng Ziyi , Huang Jieming
Published: August 2023

Background

Central obesity increases the risk of several diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer. However, the association between extremity obesity and mortality has not been extensively evaluated. The objective of this study was to investigate the quantitative effects of waist circumference (WC), arm circumference (AC), calf circumference (CC), and thigh circumference (TC) on all-cause mortality and CVD mortality.

Methods

The study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) sample survey from 1999 to 2006. A total of 19,735 participants were included in the study. We divided the participants into four groups (Q1–Q4) and used Q1 as a reference to compare the risk of all-cause mortality and CVD mortality in Q2–Q4. COX proportional hazard regression model was used to analyze the relationship between WC, AC, CC and TC on all-cause and CVD mortality. In addition, we conducted a stratified analysis of gender.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 11.8 years, we observed a total of 3,446 deaths, of which 591 were due to cardiovascular disease. The results showed that for both men and women, compared to the first group, the risk of all-cause mortality was significantly higher in the other three groups of WC and significantly lower in the other three groups of AC, CC, and TC. Similar results were observed after adjusting for confounding factors such as demographics.

Conclusions

Our results show that all-cause and CVD mortality are positively associated with measures of central obesity and negatively associated with measures of extremity obesity, and that AC, CC, and TC can be used as potential tools to measure prognosis in the general population.
Interpretation and analysis of seismic and analog modeling data of triangle zone: a case study from the frontal part of western Kura foreland fold-and-thrust belt, Georgia
Authors: Alania Victor , Enukidze Onise , Razmadze Alexander , Beridze Tamar , Merkviladze Demur , Shikhashvili Tamar
Published: August 2023

2D seismic reflection profiles revealed the presence of a triangle zone at the frontal part of the western Kura foreland fold-and-thrust belt of the pro-wedge of the Greater Caucasus. To understand the triangle zone geometry, seismic interpretations should be substantiated by forward kinematic modeling, supported by analog experiments. This study presents a new structural model for the region by integrating field observations, well data, and seismic reflection data. East-West directed along-strike structural variation of the frontal thrust is observed on the interpreted seismic profiles which affected the fold geometry. The Bitsmendi breakthrough fault-propagation fold gradually transits into a wedge structure in the W-E direction and is represented by the triangle zone. The seismic profiles interpretation results completely match with analog models of similar triangle zones. The analysis of the experimental results helps us to further understand the kinematic evolution of natural systems and improve seismic interpretation. The triangle zone developed in the western part of the Bitsmendi breakthrough fault-propagation fold is related to double fault-bend fold structural wedges and is characterized by the presence of passive, and active wedges, and passive-backthrust and passive-forethrust.
An investigation on the thixotropic parameters and mechanical properties of loess
Authors: Wei Le , Dang Faning , Ding Jiulong
Published: August 2023

The analysis of thixotropic mechanical properties of loess has a significant influence on the calculation of the strength of compacted loess foundation. In order to distinguish the consolidation growth strength of loess from the thixotropic strength, a resting thixotropic instrument is developed. The proposed device is capable of maintaining a constant volume pressure. To attain the goals, after selecting the representative Xi’an loess, the samples were pressed by the resting thixotropic instrument under constant volume pressure. Eight resting ages were also set. Moreover, the thixotropic mechanical properties of loess soil were studied at 6 months resting ages through uniaxial compression without lateral limit and triaxial CU test. The thixotropic triaxial shear strength ratio Jt, thixotropic triaxial shear strength recovery ratio Kt and thixotropic cohesion recovery ratio Lt were defined, the mechanical properties of which were investigated under different stress states. The obtained results demonstrated the obvious thixotropy of Xi’an loess, the strength of which was found to increase with an increase in the resting age. This is while, an increase in the resting age was observed to decrease the its growth rate. Moreover, the unconfined thixotropic strength was found to increase by 1.75 times after resting for 160d, which corroborates the influence of thixotropic strength in designing the foundation bearing capacity of loess. Furthermore, the recovery ratio of unconfined thixotropic strength and the growth ratio of eccentric stress strength were found to be 0.187 and 0.115, respectively. In addition, the thixotropic triaxial shear strength ratio Jt, the recovery ratio of thixotropic triaxial shear strength ratio Kt, and the recovery ratio of thixotropic cohesion ratio Lt were observed to be 0.15, 0.527, and 0.5, respectively. The obtained results suggest the resting age of 40 days to be used as the inflection point for the recovery of thixotropic strength such as uniaxial compressive strength, peak deviator stress, shear strength and cohesion of loess. Despite the insignificant variation range of the friction Angle in the resting process, the contribution ratio of friction force in increasing the shear strength was also found to be much greater than that of the cohesion.
Lithospheric structures of the eastern Himalayas as revealed by receiver function analysis
Authors: Xiang Bo , Xu Xiao , Tong Xiaofei , Wu Jiajie , Li Chunsen , Yu Jiahao , Luo Xucong , Guo Xiaoyu
Published: August 2023

Although the Himalayan-Tibetan orogen is a result of compressional tectonics, the orogen also hosts active rifts accommodating east-west extension orthogonal to the north-south India-Asia convergence. In this study we address the question of how the north-trending rifts were formed by conducting high-resolution seismic imaging survey across southeastern Tibet where the Cona rift is exposed. Our work shows that the crustal structures of this youngest rift in southern Tibet was constructed by multiple-scale structures that are decoupled with depth and long rift trend. We suggest this deformation style to have resulted from eastward extrusion of the middle and upper crust with increasing speeds to the north towards the Yarlunbg-Zangpo suture. The differential eastward extrusion in turn may have contributed to the formation and evolution of the eastern Himalayan syntaxis.
Major curricula as structures for disciplinary acculturation that contribute to student minoritization
Authors: Fiorini Stefano , Tarchinski Nita , Pearson Meaghan , Valdivia Medinaceli Montserrat , Matz Rebecca L. , Lucien Juniar , Lee Hye Rin , Koester Benjamin , Denaro Kameryn , Caporale Natalia , Byrd W. Carson
Published: August 2023

Institutions of higher learning are characterized by multiple, often intersecting, social-educational structures aimed at regulating the conditions by which a degree is ultimately granted. The sequence of courses that students must take for a degree is one such structure. Building on the Sloan Equity and Inclusion in STEM Introductory Courses (SEISMIC) Collaboration’s prior work, we provide a comparative view of students’ pathways through selected curricula at two participating institutions. We apply process analytics to students’ course enrollments as a tool to reveal features of the curricula and the associated impacts on students’ progressions to degree. Given the high enrollment in biology-related degree programs at these institutions, we focus on those and ask two questions: (1) Is the intended progression through the curriculum the one most commonly experienced by the students? and (2) does the maintenance of coherence and socialization into the discipline act in a similar way on individuals of different socio, economic and demographic backgrounds? Curriculum analytics tends to be driven by a reductionist view of its structure. Instead, we view the curriculum as a tool for disciplinary acculturation, revealing aspects of students’ transitions through educational systems not captured by commonly applied course or retention analyses. Curricular structures and the constraints they impose impact the way individual students become members of a scholarly community by acting as a cultural and social homogenizing agent. Across the curricula and institutions in this study, we find that this process results in minoritization, hampering student progression through the curriculum and contributing to disciplinary exclusion in favor of traditionally advantaged socio-demographic groups. We call for curricular restructuring that (1) reduces or alters the depth of the hierarchical course sequences, changing the way progression is established; and (2) encourages adoption of pedagogical approaches in the courses that adapt to the learning community to which they cater; ultimately incorporating an asset-based approach to the acquisition of knowledge inclusive of students’ diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and ways of being.
Association between iodine nutrition and cervical lymph node metastasis of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma
Authors: Zhao Hengqiang , Hu Jin , Cui Le , Gong Yiping , Huang Tao
Published: August 2023

We aimed to investigate the association between iodine intake and nodal metastasis stratified by central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) and lateral lymph node metastasis (LLNM) of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC). Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and clinicopathological characteristics were used to identify factors associated with CLNM and LLNM using logistic regression analysis. A sum of 3,858 PTMC patients were enrolled. The median UIC (MUI) of patients with CLNM or LLNM was not statistically different from those without nodal metastasis. Male patients had a higher MUI than females (183.4 μg/L vs. 173.6 μg/L). Female patients with extracapsular extension had a higher MUI than those without it (210.0 μg/L vs. 172.1 μg/L). Male patients with LLNM had a significantly lower MUI than those without LLNM (134.7 μg/L vs. 187.9 μg/L). Female patients with more than adequate iodine intake were more likely to present with CLNM and extrathyroidal extension than those with adequate iodine intake with an odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 1.23 (1.01–1.51) and 1.59 (1.09–2.32) after adjustment. Iodine nutrition was not found to be associated with LLNM. In addition, patients with a younger age, larger tumors, extrathyroidal extension, and intrathyroidal spread were more likely to be CLNM, whereas nodular goiter presented with a protective factor; CLNM was the only factor associated with LLNM of PTMC in both genders. In conclusion, iodine nutrition has a much closer association with female than male patients, and high iodine intake may be associated with CLNM and extrathyroidal extension in female PTMC patients.
AIB1/SRC-3/NCOA3 function in estrogen receptor alpha positive breast cancer
Authors: Kiliti Amber J. , Sharif Ghada M. , Martin Mary Beth , Wellstein Anton , Riegel Anna T.
Published: August 2023

The estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is a steroid receptor that is pivotal in the initiation and progression of most breast cancers. ERα regulates gene transcription through recruitment of essential coregulators, including the steroid receptor coactivator AIB1 (Amplified in Breast Cancer 1). AIB1 itself is an oncogene that is overexpressed in a subset of breast cancers and is known to play a role in tumor progression and resistance to endocrine therapy through multiple mechanisms. Here we review the normal and pathological functions of AIB1 in regard to its ERα-dependent and ERα-independent actions, as well as its genomic conservation and protein evolution. We also outline the efforts to target AIB1 in the treatment of breast cancer.