bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Economic Analysis of Energy Storage Systems Participating in Resilient Power Markets
Authors: Haugen Molly J. , Gordon Lee , Ainalis Daniel , Boies Adam M.
Published: July 2023

Energy storage systems (ESS) are becoming increasingly important as high shares of renewable energy generation causes increased variability and intermittency of the power supply. With more renewable energy production, energy markets are presented with possible overgeneration due to renewable sources being incompatible with electric loads and storage capacity. ESSs are viewed as underpinning technology which can support the energy system resilience in these areas. However, with various ESS technology options, configurations and performance characteristics it is difficult to compare the installed economic competitiveness across different technologies and desired applications in a standardized format. This work provides a novel economic assessment framework for evaluating the levelized cost of storage, annualized life-cycle cost and expected annual revenues of 10 grid-based and hydrogen-based ESSs based on their application potential.
Manajemen Guru Non Keahlian Dalam Mengajar SMA Negeri 3 Sungai Penuh
Authors: Yani Ahmad , Taufiq Muhammad Alfan , Yani Yogi Ahmad , Putra Mulya
Published: July 2023

Profesi guru bukan perkara yang mudah, tugas serta tanggung jawab yang dilaksanakan oleh guru sangatlah berat. Untuk mencerdaskan anak bangsa maka dibutuhkan guru yang berkualitas dan profesional serta memiliki kompetensi yang lengkap dalam bidangnya. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif dengan jenis penelitian field research yaitu penelitian lapangan yang dilakukan secara langsung melalui kegiatan observasi, wawancara serta dokumentasi untuk mendapatkan data secara lengkap, selanjutnya data tersebut dideskripsikan pada analisis penelitian. Tujuan penelitian ini ialah untuk  mengetahui efektif atau tidaknya guru non keahlian dalam mengajar dan mengetahui apa saja faktor penghambat serta pendukung bagi guru non keahlian dalam mengajar. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa guru non keahlian  sudah melakukan pekerjaan manajemen mulai dari perencanaan, pelaksanaan serta evaluasi sebagai tahap akhir dari pembelajaran. Namun hasil dari pembelajaran oleh guru non keahlian tidak sempurna, ini dibuktikan dengan peserta didik kesulitan dalam memahami materi yang disampaikan oleh guru, disebabkan guru kurang mampu menguasai materi dan metode yang sesuai dengan materi pembelajaran yang disampaikan
The Effect of Applying Talking Stick Type Learning Model in Mufrodat Learning
Authors: Habibah Ihda Filzafatin , Abidin Munirul
Published: July 2023

This study  aims to determine the  effect of  the application of the "Talking Stick"  type learning    model on improving  Mufrodat (Arabic Vocabulary) learning in  junior  high school students.  In this study,  researchers used research based on Quasi-Experimental  studies by dividing students  into two classes, namely the  experimental class  and  the control class.    This research is based on  several complex problems, namely Arabic learning  is still considered as one of  the difficult and boring subjects. The results  showed that  by using the  "Talking stick" type  of learning model,  mufrodat  learning  in students increased compared to  applying the conventional learning model  to generally.  With this research,  it is expected to be a motivation for educators  at  every  level of  education  to continue  and continue to  innovate in every application of learning  by  Models  that vary and adapt to the  technology of the era that exists today.
Co-pulping of Trewia nudiflora and Trema orientalis
Authors: ISLAM MD. JAHURAL , RAHMAN M. MOSTAFIZUR , FERDOUS TASLIMA , NAYEEM JANNATUN , POPY RAZIA SULTANA , TIAN CHAO , JAHAN M. SARWAR
Published: July 2023

Trewia nudiflora, a fast-growing species, was evaluated as a pulpwood. The α-cellulose content of this species was 40.4% with a Klason lignin of 21.5%. It was characterized by shorter fibers with a thin cell wall. The pulp yield was 40% with a kappa number of 16 at the conditions of 18% active alkali charge and 30% sulfidity for 2 h cooking at 170°C. T. nudiflora was similar to Trema orientalis in anatomical, morphological, and chemical composition; therefore, mixed chips at a 50:50 mixture ratio were cooked under optimum conditions. The pulp yield of mixed chip cooking was 45.4% with a kappa number of 19.4. The tensile and tear index of T. nudiflora pulps were 64.8 N•m/g and 11.5 kPa•m2/g at 35 °SR, respectively. The mixed chips, T. nudiflora, and T. orientalis pulps showed above 81% brightness when bleached by D0(EP)D1 sequence using 20 kg chlorine dioxide (ClO2)/ton of pulp.
Analysis of the Causes of Appearance Anxiety of Contemporary College Students and Its Countermeasures
Authors: Pan Yixuan
Published: July 2023

The problem of appearance anxiety is becoming more and more serious in today’s society, and it has even risen to become a major focus problem that affects people’s physical and mental health and social development. Among all appearance-anxious people, college students are major victims of appearance-anxiety problems. In this survey, we took college students as the survey objects and collected 101 questionnaires about appearance anxiety. We found that the main causes of college students’ appearance anxiety are the single definition and pursuit of beauty in social media, the rigid requirements and halo effect in job hunting, the lack of self-confidence in the growing environment, and certain defects in appearance itself. On the basis of the analysis of the reasons, this article will propose corresponding solutions and programs to help college students relieve anxiety and promote the development of society in a positive and healthy direction.
PATHLOSS PREDICTION MODEL IN WLAN PROPAGATION
Authors: Ayidu Nneka Joy , Elaigwu V. O.
Published: July 2023

Pathloss propagation in urban, suburban, and rural environments has a significant impact on wireless communication networks. Different propagation models have been developed for network locations. The different terrains are unique in their topological features and environmental factors. Therefore, a propagation model suitable for one terrain may not be suitable for another propagation environment for pathloss prediction. This paper proposes a signal prediction model with an 802.11 b/g wireless local area network (WLAN) infrastructure at 2.4 GHz. The models are backed by extensive received signal strength (RSS) measurements acquired from a free space of the primary field data at the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. The study considered distance based on the received signal strength of an ad hoc network for the development of a propagation model at various distances. The collected data were analysed, and a propagation model for the network terrain was developed from the log normal shadowing model. Graphical comparisons between the average RSS value and the predicted RSS value dependent on the distance were demonstrated to reflect that the proposed model can be used to predict RSS in the given propagation environment. Consequently, the utilization of this model can significantly enhance network planning activities by accurately estimating RSS values, aiding in the identification of optimal access point placement, ensuring seamless coverage, and mitigating potential coverage gaps. The findings of this research offer valuable insights for network engineers and provide a solid foundation for optimizing wireless communication within this unique network environment.
SIMULATION OF CLIMATE CHANGE EFFECT ON RICE (Oryza sativa L.) PRODUCTION IN KANO RIVER IRRIGATION SCHEME (KRIS) USING APSIM MODEL
Authors: Maina Mohammed Mamodu , Shanono N. J. , Bello M. M. , Nasidi N. M. , Abdullahi M.
Published: July 2023

Climate change threatened rice production in the semi-arid region of Nigeria. Agricultural production is affected by variations in weather conditions and long-term climate patterns. The pattern of changing climate in the last three decades indicated that changes in rainfall and temperature reduced agriculture outputs and yields, which is significant in rice. A farm experiment was set up with six cultivars of rice. The APSIM model was used to simulate grain yield at maturity under a change in temperature scenarios to observe the effect of climate change on rice. Results showed that the mean annual temperature in KRIS has risen by about 0.62 degrees in a decade, while a rise of 0.9 degree Celsius between “2010-2040” respectively. Also, there was no significant difference in the measured yield between the rice varieties, however, their response to a change in temperature in the simulated yield is significant. effect of decreased temperature on the rice yield within the span of two decades and were simulated under 1 oC, 2 oC, and 3oC rise in temperature. The overall yield is decreasing steadily and began to descend by 2025, in 2038 the yield began to rise again which was not clear as to the reason for the rise. However, on average there was a generally decreased yield over the two decades. It was recommended that a climate change adaptation strategy such as growing high yield short duration of rice variety to reduce the impact and ensure food security.
PERCEPTIONS ON THE IMPACTS OF MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES ON THE LOWER COURSE OF RIVER MAYO-INNE, YOLA SOUTH, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ijafiya Danjuma Jijuwa , Abubakar U. Y. , Liman A. B.
Published: July 2023

Rivers are important natural resources that support the existence of humans and other living organisms right from time immemorial. Despite their significance to human livelihood; changes in their morphology can impact on the socio-economic, cultural and environmental values of the riparian environment. Therefore, this study focused on the perception of the impacts of morphological changes on the lower course of River Mayo-Inne, Yola South, Adamawa State, Nigeria. This was done with the view to examine the perceived impacts of morphological changes on riparian land uses; factors influencing morphological changes and estimate the land area affected by changes in river channel morphology of the study area. An integrated approach of remote sensing, GIS, questionnaire survey and interview, were employed in this study. Descriptive statistics such as percentage and sum were used to analyse the data sets. The results revealed that fishing activities, agricultural land, damage on crops, plantation and residential land use have high impacts in the study area. While grazing land and commercial land uses have medium and low impacts respectively. The perceived factors influencing morphological changes in the study area were: discharge 50.75%, sand mining 17.10%, channel bed siltation 13.15% and urbanization 6.80%; all of which provide 81% of the total response of people living in the riparian environments. The temporal analysis of satellite imageries from 1990 to 2015 revealed that the river channel area increased from 486.34ha to 594.90ha respectively; impacting riparian land uses through bank under cutting, chute cutoffs and meander migration...
APPLICATION OF CRITICAL PATH METHOD (CPM) TO OPTIMAL PROJECT SCHEDULING: A CASE OF MOSUL BUILDING COMPANY, YOLA NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Danfulani Usman Bitrus , Mohammed Mijinyawa , Reuben B. Z. , Yakubu Joshua Anche , Digil Shamsuddeen Iya
Published: July 2023

Project cannot be done without planning, scheduling and an estimation of its duration for completion. Every project that has to be undertaken must have a deadline for it completion but not every project goes as schedule. Hence, applications of scientific method such as CPM, PERT are often very useful in project management and scheduling. This study was on the application of CPM in scheduling a building construction taking a case study of Mosul Estate building construction. Analytical research design was adopted for the study as the design suit the study at hand. Secondary data of the activities, their descriptions and predecessor as while as their duration were obtained from the construction site. The network activities diagram, the forward and the backward pass obtained by the temporary ordered routing algorithm (TORA) were drawn and the critical path represented in bold arrow heads. The results show that if CPM is applied into the project, the project can be completed in 27 weeks compared to the initial duration of 32 proposed weeks by the company. This results if implemented by the management of the firm will save cost of labour and time. We recommend that CPM should be used in a building construction company before embarking on the building. The construction firm should devote more resources, labour and equipment to the critical path in order to avoid unnecessary delay and high cost of labour.
Analisa Perbandingan Biaya Perkerasan Kaku dan Perkerasan Lentur Pada Proyek Jalan Middle Ring Road Kota Makassar
Authors: Abd. Kadir Salim  , Muhammad Akhyar Darmawan  , Harun Wibowo
Published: July 2023

Perkerasan jalan adalah bagian dari jalur lalu lintas, yang bila kita perhatikan secara struktural pada penampang melintang jalan, merupakan penampang struktur dalam kedudukan yang paling sentral dalam suatu badan jalan. Pada umumnya dikenal dua jenis perkerasan jalan raya yang sering digunakan, pertama perkerasan kaku (rigid pavement) yaitu perkerasan yang menggunakan semen sebagai bahan pengikatnya, dan yang kedua perkerasan lentur (flexible pavement) yaitu Perkerasan yang menggunakan aspal sebagai bahan pengikatnya. Tugas akhir ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui biaya perkeras kaku dan perkerasan lentur sehingga dapat diketahui perbandingan biaya antara perkerasan kaku dengan perkerasan lentur. Kesimpulan dari tugas akhir ini adalah, jumlah anggaran biaya yang diperlukan pada Proyek jalan Middle Ring Road makassar menggunakan perkerasan Kaku adalah Rp. 20.350.788.104,00 dan perkerasan lentur adalah Rp. 23.508.776.775,00. Dari segi biaya, pembangunan pada perkerasan proyek jalan Middle Ring Road dengan menggunakan perkerasan kaku sudah efisien, karena jika dibangun dengan perkerasan lentur dapat menambah biaya sebesar Rp 3.157.988.671 atau lebih besar 13,43% dari total biaya pada perkerasan kaku.
Faktor Risiko Penderita Kanker Ovarium di Rumah Sakit Ibnu Sina Makassar
Authors: St.Fatimah St.Fatimah , Latief Shofiyah , Syahruddin Febie Irsandy , Nulanda Mona , Mokhtar Shulhana
Published: July 2023

Latar Belakang: Berdasarkan data International Agency of Research on Cancer (GLOBOCAN) tahun 2020, tumor ganas atau kanker ovarium memiliki jumlah kasus baru sejumlah 313.959 orang kasus di dunia dengan angka mortalitas sejumlah 207.252 orang. Di Indonesia kasus keganasan ovarium menempati urutan ke 10 sebagai kanker paling umum terjadi dengan kasus baru sebesar 14.979 orang dengan angka mortalitas sebesar 9.581 orang. Faktor-faktor yang dapat meningkatkan risiko kejadian kanker ovarium di antaranya yakni: usia, usia menarche, paritas, riwayat keluarga, Indeks Massa Tubuh (IMT), dan riwayat kontrasepsi. Tujuan: Untuk mengetahui faktor risiko penderita kanker ovarium di Rumah Sakit Ibnu Sina Makassar. Metode Penelitian: Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif retrospektif study dengan menggunakan desain cross sectional berdasarkan data sekunder dari rekam medik di Rumah Sakit Ibnu Sina Makassar. Hasil Penelitian: Didapatkan distribusi usia terbanyak adalah kelompok usia lebih dari 40 tahun sebanyak 44 pasien (62%), distribusi usia menarche terbanyak adalah lebih dari 12 tahun sebanyak 45 pasien (63,4%), distribusi jumlah paritas terbanyak adalah dengan kriteria ≤2 sebanyak 51 orang (71,8%), distribusi riwayat keluarga terbanyak adalah tidak memiliki riwayat keluarga sebanyak 67 pasien (94,4%), distribusi indeks massa tubuh (IMT) terbanyak adalah kategori normal sebanyak 32 pasien (45,1%), dan distribusi riwayat kontrasepsi terbanyak adalah tidak memiliki riwayat menggunakan kontrasepsi sebanyak 57 pasien (80,3%). Kesimpulan: Faktor risiko kanker ovarium terbanyak ditemukan pada usia lebih dari 40 tahun, usia menarche lebih dari 12 tahun, jumlah paritas ≤2, tidak memiliki riwayat keluarga, indeks massa tubuh (IMT) dalam kategori normal, dan tidak memiliki riwayat kontrasepsi.
Hubungan Antara Status Gizi Dengan Prestasi Belajar Anak Pada Usia 9 – 12 Tahun
Authors: Nur A. Ainun Wulandari , Mokhtar Shulhana , Nurmadilla Nesyana , Bamahry Aryanti B , Jafar Muh Alfian
Published: July 2023

Status gizi adalah keadaan yang diakibatkan oleh keseimbangan antara asupan zat gizi dari makanan dengan kebutuhan zat gizi yang diperlukan untuk metabolisme tubuh. Status gizi yang baik akan mempengaruhi proses pertumbuhan dan perkembangan anak, salah satunya dapat meningkatkan kemampuan intelektual yang akan berdampak pada prestasi belajar di sekolah. Prestasi belajar merupakan hasil belajar yang dicapai setelah melalui proses kegiatan belajar mengajar. Prestasi belajar dikatakan sempurna apabila memenuhi tiga aspek, yaitu kognitif, afektif, dan psikomotor. Untuk mengetahui hubungan antara status gizi dengan prestasi belajar anak pada usia 9-12 tahun. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif kuantitatif dengan pendekatan cross sectional dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 72 orang. Berdasarkan indeks BB/TB anak yang memiliki status gizi baik sebanyak 45,8%, obesitas 12,5%, overweight 2,8%, gizi kurang 37,5% dan gizi buruk 1,4%. Untuk hasil prestasi belajar anak yang memiliki prestasi belajar tinggi sebanyak 83,3% dan prestasi belajar sedang sebanyak 16,7%. Hasil uji chi square menunjukkan hubungan status gizi berdasarkan indeks BB/TB dengan prestasi belajar anak usia 9-12 tahun diperoleh nilai p = 0,006 yaitu terdapat hubungan bermakna antara status gizi dengan prestasi belajar anak usia 9-12 tahun.
Cellulose, Cellulose Benzoate and Cellulose Citrate from Screw Pine (Pandanus tectorius) Leaves as PVDF Filler for Improved Permeability and Anti-fouling Properties
Authors: Trisnawati Elyna Wahyu , Cahyani Indri Sri , Safriyani Diah , Pramono Edi , Suryanti Venty
Published: July 2023

Cellulose was isolated from screw pine (Pandanus tectorius) leaves through an alkalization and bleaching process and synthesized into cellulose benzoate and cellulose citrate. Cellulose, cellulose benzoate, and cellulose citrate were introduced to polyvinylidene ﬂuoride (PVDF) matrix as fillers via blending-phase inversion method to improve PVDF membrane permeability and anti-fouling properties. The effect of cellulose, cellulose benzoate, and cellulose citrate fillers on PVDF membrane hydrophilicity, permeability, selectivity, anti-fouling properties, and morphology was investigated. The result demonstrates that the PVDF membrane's hydrophilicity, permeability, and anti-fouling properties were improved by the addition of filler. With the addition of 0.3% of cellulose, cellulose citrate, and cellulose benzoate, water permeability in PVDF was doubled. PVDF membrane rejection of methylene blue increased up to 86, 85 and 82%, respectively, with the addition of 0.3% cellulose, cellulose citrate, and cellulose benzoate. Anti-fouling properties value increased up to 89% in 0.3% cellulose citrate addition. These results indicated that cellulose, cellulose benzoate, and cellulose citrate from screw pine leaves are excellent for PVDF membrane fillers which are comparable with other reported membranes.
Thematic Based PJOK Module Development
Authors: Nurhadi Zuraidah , Budi Valianto  , Eva Faridah  , Indra Kasih
Published: July 2023

This study aims to describe the validity of thematic-based PJOK modules for grade IV elementary schools in odd semesters. The research used is the development (Research & Development), Borg and Gall. The research subjects were 18 PJOK teachers from three sub-districts in Medan City, namely (Medan Johor, Medan Selayang, and Medan Deli), as well as 3 expert validators.A questionnaire is used to collect information. The module category was found to be very practical to use, with an average score of 95% based on the results of the three expert validations. The first PJOK teacher validated the results with an average score of 94 percent. and the average score on the wider cohort test is 92 percent. and operational field trials yielded results with an average score of 92 percent. From the three seasoned professionals (PJOK teachers) an average score of 92.6% was obtained, with a very decent category. This shows that the thematic-based PJOK module is valid for use by teachers in PJOK learning for grade IV elementary schools.
PON XXI Survey in North Sumatra on High School Students
Authors: Timbul Mugabe Siregar  , Samsuddin Siregar  , Amir Supriadi  , Rafika Ardilla
Published: July 2023

This study aims to measure the knowledge of high school students about PON XXI which will be held in North Sumatra - Aceh in 2024. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method with survey techniques. The sample for this research was 192 people from several schools with 3 districts/cities namely area of ​​Medan city, Deli Serdang Regency, and Serdang Bedagai Regency. Data collection techniques using observation and questionnaires. Based on research results from the questionnaire, information was obtained that 47 students (23.9%) had never heard of PON 93 people (47.2%) students did not understand about PON 37 people (17.3%) students did not know at all how many years PON was held. 16 people (8.1%) students did not know where the host of PON XXI would be held; and 118 people (59.9%) students responded to know the attributes of PON XX in Papua. From the results of the data obtained, it is known that there are still many high school/equivalent students who do not know about the grand PON event which will be held in 2024 in North Sumatra and Aceh. It can be seen from the average percentage obtained by 31.3% of students who do not have knowledge about PON and the events that will be held in 2024.It can be concluded that it is necessary to carry out socialization about PON XXI which will be held in North Sumatra - Aceh in 2024.
Development of WEB Based Police Member Proficiency Test Application
Authors: Harahap Putra Satria , Rahma Dewi  , Nurkadri
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research is to produce a web-based application for the aptitude test for members of the Indonesian National Police. The type of research used in this research is development research with Research & Development (R&D) research design from Borg and Gall. This research was conducted with 9 research stages namely, (1) Research and information collecting, (2) Planning, (3) Develop preliminary form of product, (4) Preminary field testing, (5) Main product revision, (6) Main field testing, (7) Operational product revision, (8) Operational field testing, (9) Final product revision. The population in this study used sports science faculty students. The sampling technique used purposive sampling with a Phase I trial of 15 members of the Indonesian National Police Batch 2020/2021 and a Phase II trial with a total of 30 members of the Indonesian National Police Batch 2021/2022. Furthermore, from the Phase I trial with a total of 15 students showing a score of 78.33% with the Eligible criteria, then from the Phase II trial with a total of 30 students showing a score of 93.77% with the Very Eligible category. On the basis of the data obtained, the development of a web-based aptitude test application for police officers was declared feasible to be developed as a web-based aptitude test application for police officers.
A Comparison of Tactic and Technical Approaches to Student Basketball Skills
Authors: Sucipto  , Gumilar Agus , Lestari Alpi Pebria , Hambali Burhan
Published: July 2023

The tactical and technical approach model is an approach model that is often used in physical education, especially in game sports, one of which is basketball. This study aims to determine the different effects of tactical and technical learning models on students' understanding and skills in basketball. The method and design of this study used an experimental method with pre-test and post-test design groups. The research sample is composed of high school students, with a total of 48 students. 12 students using a technical approach and 12 tactical students The instrument uses GPAI (Games Performance Instrument Analysis). The results obtained (1) test the similarity of the average of the two skills obtained. 000 for technical and 0.000 for tactical, it can be concluded that the two models have significant differences in basketball playing skills. (2) Then the two models have different average values; the playing skills score of the tactical approach model is 0.67 and the technical approach model is 0.55. The difference between the two approach models shows that the tactical approach model has a significantly greater effect than the technical approach model.
Концептуальні погляди щодо розвитку та застосування роботизованих систем в Збройних Силах України (концепція, завдання, класифікація, система управління, виклики щодо застосування, перспективи)
Authors: Semenenko Oleh , Baranov Sergii , Akinina Tetiana , Dobrovolskyi Yuzef , Yarmolchyk Maria , Musiienko Volodymyr
Published: July 2023

Мета роботи: полягає у визначенні концептуальних поглядів щодо розвитку та застосування роботизованих систем в ЗСУ з визначенням: завдань роботизованих систем за різних підходів їх формування; їх класифікації; системи управління розвитком та застосуванням на різних рівнях організаційної структури ЗСУ; викликів та застережень щодо застосування роботизованих систем та перспектив їх розвитку в ЗСУ.

Метод дослідження: основними методами досліджень є методи: методи аналізу та синтезу; метод порівняння; формалізації; абстрагування та спостереження.

Результати дослідження: Основними результатами статті є: результати аналізу існуючих систем управління розвитком та застосуванням роботизованих (робототехнічних) систем в деяких іноземних країнах; погляди щодо формування концепції розвитку та застосування роботизованих систем в Збройних Силах України; завдання роботизованих систем в ЗСУ за різних підходів їх формування; виклики та застереження щодо застосування роботизованих систем в ЗСУ; погляди щодо формування системи управління розвитком і застосуванням роботизованих систем на різних рівнях організаційної структури ЗСУ.

Теоретична цінність дослідження: теоретична цінність дослідження полягає у визначенні концептуальних поглядів щодо розвитку та застосування роботизованих систем в Збройних Силах України з урахуванням тенденцій їх розвитку у світі та застосування під час російсько-української війни.

Тип статті: аналітичний, теоретично-методичний, описовий.
Gene expression profiling indicates a shift in ammonia assimilation capacity along the hepatic acinus induced by different forms of selenium in vitamin–mineral mixes fed to beef steers grazing on toxic endophyte-infected tall fescue
Authors: Jia Yang , Son Kwangwon , Matthews James C.
Published: July 2023

Recently, we demonstrated that supplementing (with 3 mg Se per day) the diets of growing beef steers grazing on Se-deficient toxic endophyte-infected tall fescue-based forage with either organic Se (OSe, SEL-PLEX) or a 1:1 blend (MIX) of OSe and inorganic Se (ISe, sodium selenite) in vitamin–mineral mixes, rather than inorganic forms of Se, ameliorated several classic serum symptoms of fescue toxicosis. Importantly, higher levels of hepatic glutamine synthetase activity were observed in MIX and OSe steers. Accordingly, transcriptome level and targeted mRNA expression analyses were conducted on the same liver tissue to determine if Se treatments affected other hepatic metabolic pathways, especially those that are responsible for supplying substrates of glutamine synthetase. The effect of ISe, OSe, and MIX treatments (n = 8/treatment) on the relative abundances of mRNA [determined using microarray and real-time reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR)] and protein (determined using Western blotting) in liver tissue was assessed by ANOVA. Fisher’s protected LSD procedure was used to separate treatment means, with significance being declared at p ≤ 0.05. Microarray analysis identified (p< 0.01, false discovery rate of< 33%) 573 annotated differentially expressed gene (DEG) transcripts. Canonical pathway analysis identified the DEGs that are central to glutamine and glutamate biosynthesis/degradation and proline biosynthesis. Targeted RT-PCR analyses found that MIX and OSe steers had lower periportal ammonia-assimilation and urea-synthesizing capacities (lower glutaminase 2, key ornithine cycle enzymes, and mitochondrial ornithine/citrulline exchanger mRNA) than ISe steers. In addition, MIX and OSe steers had a higher capacity for pericentral ammonia assimilation (higher glutamine synthetase activity) and a higher capacity for the production of glutamate in pericentral hepatocytes from α-ketoglutarate (higher levels of glutamine dehydrogenase, and decreased levels of arginase 2 and ornithine aminotransferase and mRNA). The form of supplemental Se also affected steers’ capacity for hepatic proline metabolism, with OSe steers having a higher capacity for proline synthesis and MIX steers having a higher capacity for pyroline-5-carboxylate synthesis. In conclusion, supplementing the diets of growing beef steers grazing on toxic endophyte-infected tall fescue with MIX and OSe in vitamin–mineral mixes, rather than with inorganic forms of Se, shifts hepatic ammonia assimilation from periportal urea production to pericentral glutamine production, thus potentially increasing whole-animal N efficiency by increasing the supply of hepatic-synthesized glutamine.
Outcomes of manually modified microvascular plugs to pulmonary flow restrictors in various congenital heart lesions
Authors: Haddad Raymond N. , Bentham Jamie , Adel Hassan Ahmed , Al Soufi Mahmoud , Jaber Osama , El Rassi Issam , Kasem Mohamed
Published: July 2023

Background

The development of microvascular plugs (MVPs) has enabled novel transcatheter deliverable endoluminal pulmonary flow restrictors (PFRs) with the potential to treat newborns and infants with life-threatening congenital heart diseases (CHDs) in a minimally invasive manner. We present our experience to evaluate the efficacy of this concept in controlling pulmonary blood flow in various CHDs.

Methods

Retrospective clinical data review of patients with CHD and pulmonary over-circulation who received bilateral PFRs percutaneously.

Results

Twenty-eight PFRs (7 MVP-5Q, 12 MVP-7Q, and 9 MVP-9Q) were finally implanted in 14 patients with a median age of 1.6 months (IQR, 0.9–2.3) and a median weight of 3.1 Kg (IQR, 2.7–3.6). Nine patients had large intra-cardiac left-to-right shunts (including 3 with fatal trisomy and palliative programs), 2 had borderline left ventricles, 2 had Taussig-Bing anomaly, and one had a hypoplastic left heart. Four patients had concomitant ductal stenting. Two MVP-5Qs were snare-removed and upsized to MVP-7Q. Patients experienced a significant drop in oxygen saturation and Qp/Qs. All patients were discharged from the ICU after a median of 3.5 days (IQR, 2–5.8) postoperative. Five patients had routine inter-stage catheterization and no device embolization or pulmonary branch distortion was seen. Fourteen (50%) PFRs were surgically explanted uneventfully on a median of 4.3 months (IQR, 1.2–6) post-implantation during biventricular repair in 6 patients and stage-2 palliation in one patient. The latter died 1 month post-operative from severe sepsis. Four patients are scheduled for surgical PFR removal and biventricular repair. Two patients with trisomy 18 died at 1 and 6.8 months post-procedure from non-cardiac causes. One patient with trisomy 13 is alive at 2.7 months post-procedure.

Conclusion

It is feasible to bespoke MVPs and implant them as effective PFRs in various CHDs. This approach enables staged left ventricular recruitment, comprehensive stage-2 or biventricular repair with lower risk by postponing surgeries to later infancy. Device explantation is uneventful, and the outcomes afterward are promising.
Cardiac osteosarcoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Bae Dae-Hwan , Park Sangshin , Kim Min , Kim Sangmin , Choi Woong Gil , Bae Jang-Whan , Hwang Kyung-Kuk , Kim Dong-Woon , Cho Myeong-Chan , Lee Ju-Hee
Published: July 2023

Background

Primary cardiac tumors are rare, and malignant primary cardiac tumors are even rarer. Cardiac osteosarcoma is a very rare type of malignant primary cardiac tumor with limited reported cases. We present a case report of cardiac osteosarcoma and review its characteristics and the related literature.

Case summary

A 44-year-old female patient without a specific medical history presented with intermittent dyspnea that started 1 month prior to presentation. A heterogeneous mass was observed in the left atrium on echocardiography and a large mass was observed in the left atrium on computed tomography. Surgery was performed under the suspicion of atypical cardiac myxoma, and the tumor was successfully removed. However, postoperative histopathological examination revealed cardiac osteosarcoma. The patient underwent chemotherapy and has been well maintained without recurrence for 10 years.

Conclusion

We present a case report of the echocardiographic features and treatment strategies for cardiac osteosarcoma, an extremely rare cardiac tumor. Multimodal imaging can be helpful; however, a histological diagnosis through surgical resection is essential. Appropriate treatment and follow-up based on histological findings are necessary.
The responses of soil microbial characteristics to nitrogen addition and biochar amendment in a Larix kaempferi plantation
Authors: Hu Chen , Ma Zhiyuan , Gong Jinyu , Lei Jingpin , Cui Hongxia
Published: July 2023

Nitrogen (N) deposition is an important environmental factor that can change soil chemical properties. It can also alter the characteristics of microbial communities. The incorporation of biochar into soils is considered a potential strategy to enhance carbon (C) storage in soil and modify the impacts of N deposition. However, the impacts of biochar on the microbial characteristics of soil after short-term N deposition in subtropical plantations remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the effects of biochar application (0, 5, 10 t ha−1) on soil chemical traits and microbial characteristics (extracellular enzyme activities, microbial community and microbial biomass) in a Larix kaempferi plantation in Shennongjia, China, under N addition (0, 50, 100 kg N ha−1 yr−1) during two growing seasons. We found that simulated N deposition significant increased soil total nitrogen (TN), nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N) and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations, while heavy N deposition (100 kg N ha−1 yr−1) significant decreased soil microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN) concentration and β-glucosidase (β-GC) activity. Biochar amendment significantly increased soil microbial biomass, TN and soil organic carbon (SOC) concentrations. Both N addition and biochar amendment significantly altered Ascomycota and Basidiomycota relative abundance, with biochar amendment increasing Ascomycota relative abundance and decreasing Mortierellomycota relative abundance under heavy N deposition. Fungal diversity showed a positive correlation to TN, TP and NO3−-N concentrations, but a negative correlation to MBN. Biochar addition inhibited the increase in soil NO3−-N concentration caused by high N addition in the plantation, and influenced the change in the composition of microbial community caused by N addition. Our piecewise structural equation model suggested that N addition affected MBN and fungal diversity directly or indirectly via its effects on soil enzyme activities and properties. In contrast, there were no significant direct or indirect effects on bacterial diversity among all factors. These results improve our understanding of the influence and mechanisms of N addition and biochar amendment on soil microbial characteristics in subtropical coniferous plantations in the short term, and can provide a valuable reference for predicting the future effects of N deposition on soils in this region’s plantation.
Plasma cells are not restricted to the CD27+ phenotype: characterization of CD27-CD43+ antibody-secreting cells
Authors: Covens Kris , Verbinnen Bert , de Jong Britt G. , Moens Leen , Wuyts Greet , Verheyen Geert , Nys Kris , Cremer Jonathan , Smulders Stijn , Schrijvers Rik , Weinhäusel Andreas , Vermeire Séverine , Verschueren Patrick , Langhe Ellen De , van Dongen Jacques J. M. , van Zelm Menno C. , Bossuyt Xavier
Published: July 2023

Circulating antibody-secreting cells are present in the peripheral blood of healthy individuals reflecting the continued activity of the humoral immune system. Antibody-secreting cells typically express CD27. Here we describe and characterize a small population of antibody-secreting class switched CD19+CD43+ B cells that lack expression of CD27 in the peripheral blood of healthy subjects. In this study, we characterized CD27-CD43+ cells. We demonstrate that class-switched CD27-CD43+ B cells possess characteristics of conventional plasmablasts as they spontaneously secrete antibodies, are morphologically similar to antibody-secreting cells, show downregulation of B cell differentiation markers, and have a gene expression profile related to conventional plasmablasts. Despite these similarities, we observed differences in IgA and IgG subclass distribution, expression of homing markers, replication history, frequency of somatic hypermutation, immunoglobulin repertoire, gene expression related to Toll-like receptors, cytokines, and cytokine receptors, and antibody response to vaccination. Their frequency is altered in immune-mediated disorders.

Conclusion

we characterized CD27-CD43+ cells as antibody-secreting cells with differences in function and homing potential as compared to conventional CD27+ antibody-secreting cells.
Construction of the systemic anticancer immune environment in tumour-bearing humanized mouse by using liposome-encapsulated anti-programmed death ligand 1 antibody-conjugated progesterone
Authors: Kametani Yoshie , Ito Ryoji , Ohshima Shino , Manabe Yoshiyuki , Ohno Yusuke , Shimizu Tomoka , Yamada Soga , Katano Nagi , Kirigaya Daiki , Ito Keita , Matsumoto Takuya , Tsuda Banri , Kashiwagi Hirofumi , Goto Yumiko , Yasuda Atsushi , Maeki Masatoshi , Tokeshi Manabu , Seki Toshiro , Fukase Koichi , Mikami Mikio , Ando Kiyoshi , Ishimoto Hitoshi , Shiina Takashi
Published: July 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors highlight the importance of anticancer immunity. However, their clinical utility and safety are limited by the low response rates and adverse effects. We focused on progesterone (P4), a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy, because it has multiple biological activities related to anticancer and immune regulation effects. P4 has a reversible immune regulatory function distinct from that of the stress hormone cortisol, which may drive irreversible immune suppression that promotes T cell exhaustion and apoptosis in patients with cancer. Because the anticancer effect of P4 is induced at higher than physiological concentrations, we aimed to develop a new anticancer drug by encapsulating P4 in liposomes. In this study, we prepared liposome-encapsulated anti-programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibody-conjugated P4 (Lipo-anti-PD-L1-P4) and evaluated the effects on the growth of MDA-MB-231 cells, a PD-L1-expressing triple-negative breast cancer cell line, in vitro and in NOG-hIL-4-Tg mice transplanted with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (humanized mice). Lipo-anti-PD-L1-P4 at physiological concentrations reduced T cell exhaustion and proliferation of MDA-MB-231 in vitro. Humanized mice bearing MDA-MB-231 cells expressing PD-L1 showed suppressed tumor growth and peripheral tissue inflammation. The proportion of B cells and CD4+ T cells decreased, whereas the proportion of CD8+ T cells increased in Lipo-anti-PD-L1-P4-administrated mice spleens and tumor-infiltrated lymphocytes. Our results suggested that Lipo-anti-PD-L1-P4 establishes a systemic anticancer immune environment with minimal toxicity. Thus, the use of P4 as an anticancer drug may represent a new strategy for cancer treatment.
A risk score combining co-expression modules related to myeloid cells and alternative splicing associates with response to PD-1/PD-L1 blockade in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Han Yichao , Liu Si-Yang Maggie , Jin Runsen , Meng Wangyang , Wu Yi-Long , Li Hecheng
Published: July 2023

Background

Comprehensive analysis of transcriptomic profiles of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) may provide novel evidence for biomarkers associated with response to PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade (ICB).

Methods

We utilized weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to analyze transcriptomic data from two NSCLC datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GSE135222 and GSE126044) that involved patients received ICB treatment. We evaluated the correlation of co-expression modules with ICB responsiveness and functionally annotated ICB-related modules using pathway enrichment analysis, single-cell RNA sequencing, flow cytometry and alternative splicing analysis. We built a risk score using Lasso-COX regression based on hub genes from ICB-related modules. We investigated the alteration of tumor microenvironment between high- and low- risk groups and the association of the risk score with previously established predictive biomarkers.

Results

Our results identified a black with positive correlation and a blue module with negative correlation to ICB responsiveness. The black module was enriched in pathway of T cell activation and antigen processing and presentation, and the genes assigned to it were consistently expressed on myeloid cells. We observed decreased alternative splicing events in samples with high signature scores of the blue module. The Lasso-COX analysis screened out three genes (EVI2B, DHX9, HNRNPM) and constructed a risk score from the hub genes of the two modules. We validated the predictive value of the risk score for poor response to ICB therapy in an in-house NSCLC cohort and a pan-cancer cohort from the KM-plotter database. The low-risk group had more immune-infiltrated microenvironment, with higher frequencies of precursor exhausted CD8+ T cells, tissue-resident CD8+ T cells, plasmacytoid dendritic cells and type 1 conventional dendritic cells, and a lower frequency of terminal exhausted CD8+ T cells, which may explain its superior response to ICB therapy. The significant correlation of the risk score to gene signature of tertiary lymphoid structure also implicated the possible mechanism of this predictive biomarker.

Conclusions

Our study identified two co-expression modules related to ICB responsiveness in NSCLC and developed a risk score accordingly, which could potentially serve as a predictive biomarker for ICB response.
Janus kinase inhibitors in autoimmune bullous diseases
Authors: Huang Dawei , Zhang Yuexin , Kong Luyang , Lu Jiajing , Shi Yuling
Published: July 2023

Autoimmune bullous disease (AIBD) is a severe skin disorder caused by autoantibodies that target intercellular or cell-matrix adhesion proteins. Currently, the preferred treatment for AIBD involves the use of glucocorticoids or traditional immunosuppressants. Additionally, the utilization of biological agents such as rituximab, omalizumab, and dupilumab is on the rise. However, effectively managing AIBD remains a challenge. The Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway has been implicated in various inflammatory diseases. In recent years, a range of drugs known as JAK inhibitors, which target this pathway, have been developed. Several studies have explored the efficacy and safety of JAK inhibitors for treating AIBD. Consequently, this review begins by examining the role of the JAK/STAT pathway in AIBD, summarizing the application of different JAK inhibitors in AIBD treatment, and emphasizing the importance of disease management in treating AIBD with JAK inhibitors. Furthermore, it highlights the need for a better understanding of the JAK/STAT pathway’s role in AIBD, as well as the effectiveness and safety of JAK inhibitors for treating this disease.
STING signaling in inflammaging: a new target against musculoskeletal diseases
Authors: Song Chenyu , Hu Zhuoyi , Xu Dingjun , Bian Huihui , Lv Juan , Zhu Xuanxuan , Zhang Qiang , Su Li , Yin Heng , Lu Tong , Li Yinghua
Published: July 2023

Stimulator of Interferon Gene (STING) is a critical signaling linker protein that plays a crucial role in the intrinsic immune response, particularly in the cytoplasmic DNA-mediated immune response in both pathogens and hosts. It is also involved in various signaling processes in vivo. The musculoskeletal system provides humans with morphology, support, stability, and movement. However, its aging can result in various diseases and negatively impact people’s lives. While many studies have reported that cellular aging is a leading cause of musculoskeletal disorders, it also offers insight into potential treatments. Under pathological conditions, senescent osteoblasts, chondrocytes, myeloid cells, and muscle fibers exhibit persistent senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), metabolic disturbances, and cell cycle arrest, which are closely linked to abnormal STING activation. The accumulation of cytoplasmic DNA due to chromatin escape from the nucleus following DNA damage or telomere shortening activates the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Moreover, STING activation is also linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, epigenetic modifications, and impaired cytoplasmic DNA degradation. STING activation upregulates SASP and autophagy directly and indirectly promotes cell cycle arrest. Thus, STING may be involved in the onset and development of various age-related musculoskeletal disorders and represents a potential therapeutic target. In recent years, many STING modulators have been developed and used in the study of musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, this paper summarizes the effects of STING signaling on the musculoskeletal system at the molecular level and current understanding of the mechanisms of endogenous active ligand production and accumulation. We also discuss the relationship between some age-related musculoskeletal disorders and STING, as well as the current status of STING modulator development.