bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS PENGARUH PATIENT EXPERIENCE TERHADAP PELAKSANAAN PATIENT SAFETY DI RUANG RAWAT INAP RUMAH SAKIT BHAYANGKARA MAKASSAR TAHUN 2023.
Authors: Poetra Ricky Perdana , Nuryadin Afriyana Amelia , Junus Darmawati , Junus Darmawati , Indriyani Indriyani
Published: January 2024

Keselamatan pasien merupakan suatu sistem yang membuat asuhan pasien lebih aman, meliputi penilaian risiko, identifikasi dan pengelolaan risiko pasien, pelaporan dan analisis insiden, kemampuan belajar dari insiden dan tindak lanjutnya, serta implementasi solusi untuk meminimalkan timbulnya risiko dan mencegah terjadinya cedera yang disebabkan oleh kesalahan akibat melaksanakan suatu tindakan atau tidak mengambil tindakan yang seharusnya diambil. Tujuan: untuk menganalisis pengaruh patient experience terhadap pelaksanaan patient safety di ruang rawat inap Rumah Sakit Bhayangkara Makassar.  Metode Penelitian: jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kuantitatif menggunakan desain Cross Sectional Study, teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis univariat bivariat, dan multivariat. Penelitian ini dilakukan di ruangan rawat inap Rumah Sakit Bhayangkara Makassar dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 296 responden yang ditentukan dengan uji slovin. Hasil: Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat penagaruh patient experience berdasarkan variabel komunikasi perawat (p=0,010), tidak terdapat penagaruh patient experience berdasarkan variabel komunikasi dokter (p=0,062), terdapat penagaruh patient experience berdasarkan variabel perawat yang responsif (p=0,001), terdapat penagaruh patient experience berdasarkan variabel kenyamanan lingkungan fisik (p=0,003), terdapat penagaruh patient experience berdasarkan variabel kontrol rasa nyeri (p=0,000), terdapat penagaruh patient experience berdasarkan variabel komunikasi tentang obat (p=0,014) dan tidak terdapat penagaruh patient experience berdasarkan variabel discharge planning (p=0,740).
Editorial
Authors: Vieira Chirlei Silva , Barbiratto Jhéssica Zezak Rodrigues
Published: January 2024

Caros leitores e prezada comunidade acadêmica, é com grande contentamento que apresentamos o volume 01/edição 01 da Calunga AE - Revista Interdisciplinar de Engenharia Civil, Arquitetura e Urbanismo. A presente edição marca mais um passo significativo em nossa missão de contribuir para o avanço do conhecimento científico e para a construção de uma sociedade mais sustentável e acessível.
Adolescent alcohol drinking interaction with the gut microbiome: implications for adult alcohol use disorder
Authors: Getachew Bruk , Hauser Sheketha R. , Bennani Samia , El Kouhen Nacer , Sari Youssef , Tizabi Yousef
Published: January 2024

Reciprocal communication between the gut microbiota and the brain, commonly referred to as the “gut-brain-axis” is crucial in maintaining overall physiological homeostasis. Gut microbiota development and brain maturation (neuronal connectivity and plasticity) appear to be synchronized and to follow the same timeline during childhood (immature), adolescence (expansion) and adulthood (completion). It is important to note that the mesolimbic reward circuitry develops early on, whereas the maturation of the inhibitory frontal cortical neurons is delayed. This imbalance can lead to increased acquirement of reward-seeking and risk-taking behaviors during adolescence, and consequently eventuate in heightened risk for substance abuse. Thus, there is high initiation of alcohol drinking in early adolescence that significantly increases the risk of alcohol use disorder (AUD) in adulthood. The underlying causes for heightened AUD risk are not well understood. It is suggested that alcohol-associated gut microbiota impairment during adolescence plays a key role in AUD neurodevelopment in adulthood. Furthermore, alcohol-induced dysregulation of microglia, either directly or indirectly through interaction with gut microbiota, may be a critical neuroinflammatory pathway leading to neurodevelopmental impairments and AUD. In this review article, we highlight the influence of adolescent alcohol drinking on gut microbiota, gut-brain axis and microglia, and eventual manifestation of AUD. Furthermore, novel therapeutic interventions via gut microbiota manipulations are discussed briefly.
Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis identifies one subpopulation of endothelial cells that proliferates and another that undergoes the endothelial-mesenchymal transition in regenerating pig hearts
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Minh , Geng Xiaoxiao , Wei Yuhua , Ye Lei , Garry Daniel J. , Zhang Jianyi
Published: January 2024

Background: In our previous work, we demonstrated that when newborn pigs undergo apical resection (AR) on postnatal day 1 (P1), the animals’ hearts were completely recover from a myocardial infarction (MI) that occurs on postnatal day 28 (P28); single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNAseq) data suggested that this recovery was achieved by regeneration of pig cardiomyocyte subpopulations in response to MI. However, coronary vasculature also has a key role in promoting cardiac repair.

Method: Thus, in this report, we used autoencoder algorithms to analyze snRNAseq data from endothelial cells (ECs) in the hearts of the same animals.

Main results: Our results identified five EC clusters, three composed of vascular ECs (VEC1-3) and two containing lymphatic ECs (LEC1-2). Cells from VEC1 expressed elevated levels of each of five cell-cyclespecific markers (Aurora Kinase B [AURKB], Marker of Proliferation Ki-67 [MKI67], Inner Centromere Protein [INCENP], Survivin [BIRC5], and Borealin [CDCA8]), as well as a number of transcription factors that promote EC proliferation, while (VEC3 was enriched for genes that regulate intercellular junctions, participate in transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signaling, and promote the endothelial mesenchymal transition (EndMT). The remaining VEC2 did not appear to participate directly in the angiogenic response to MI, but trajectory analyses indicated that it may serve as a reservoir for the generation of VEC1 and VEC3 ECs in response to MI. Notably, only the VEC3 cluster was more populous in regenerating (i.e., ARP1MIP28) than non-regenerating (i.e., MIP28) hearts during the 1-week period after MI induction, which suggests that further investigation of the VEC3 cluster could identify new targets for improving myocardial recovery after MI. Histological analysis of KI67 and EndMT marker PDGFRA demonstrated that while the expression of proliferation of endothelial cells was not significantly different, expression of EndMT markers was significantly higher among endothelial cells of ARP1MIP28 hearts compared to MIP28 hearts, which were consistent with snRNAseq analysis of clusters VEC1 and VEC3. Furthermore, upregulated secrete genes by VEC3 may promote cardiomyocyte proliferation via the Pi3k-Akt and ERBB signaling pathways, which directly contribute to cardiac muscle regeneration.

Conclusion: In regenerative heart, endothelial cells may express EndMT markers, and this process could contribute to regeneration via a endothelial-cardiomyocyte crosstalk that supports cardiomyocyte proliferation.
Insights and perspectives on the enigmatic alary muscles of arthropods
Authors: Bataillé Laetitia , Lebreton Gaëlle , Boukhatmi Hadi , Vincent Alain
Published: January 2024

Three types of muscles, cardiac, smooth and skeletal muscles are classically distinguished in eubilaterian animals. The skeletal, striated muscles are innervated multinucleated syncytia, which, together with bones and tendons, carry out voluntary and reflex body movements. Alary muscles (AMs) are another type of striated syncytial muscles, which connect the exoskeleton to the heart in adult arthropods and were proposed to control hemolymph flux. Developmental studies in Drosophila showed that larval AMs are specified in embryos under control of conserved myogenic transcription factors and interact with excretory, respiratory and hematopoietic tissues in addition to the heart. They also revealed the existence of thoracic AMs (TARMs) connecting to specific gut regions. Their asymmetric attachment sites, deformation properties in crawling larvae and ablation-induced phenotypes, suggest that AMs and TARMs could play both architectural and signalling functions. During metamorphosis, and heart remodelling, some AMs trans-differentiate into another type of muscles. Remaining critical questions include the enigmatic modes and roles of AM innervation, mechanical properties of AMs and TARMS and their evolutionary origin. The purpose of this review is to consolidate facts and hypotheses surrounding AMs/TARMs and underscore the need for further detailed investigation into these atypical muscles.
Dynamic changes in the migratory microbial components of colon tissue during different periods of sepsis in an LPS-induced rat model
Authors: Xu Hao , You Jia , He Wenqin , Pei Lingpeng , Han Yue , Wang Xueer , Tian Zhigang , Zheng Xiwei , Wu Enqi , Ling Yaqin
Published: January 2024

Previous studies have shown that bacterial translocation may play an important role in worsening gastrointestinal injury during sepsis. However, the dynamics of specific microbiota components in intestinal tissues at different sepsis stages remain unclear. Rats receiving intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were sacrificed at 12 h and 48 h post-injection. Routine blood, serum cytokines, and microbiota in colon tissue, colonic contents, and lung tissue at different time points were assessed. Migratory microbial components in colonic tissue at 12 h and 48 h post-LPS were identified using source tracking, characteristic component identification, and abundance difference analyses. Colonic tissue microbiota changed dynamically over time after LPS injection, involving translocation of microbial components from colon contents and lung tissue at different time points. Bacteria migrating to colon tissue at 12 h sepsis were mainly from colonic contents, while those at 48 h were predominantly from the lung tissue. The migratory microbial components in colon tissue were widely associated with blood indicators and colonizing genus abundance and microbiota functionality in colon tissue. In this study, the temporal dynamics of bacterial translocation from various sources into colon tissues at different sepsis progression stages were characterized for the first time, and the species composition of these migrating microbes was delineated. These bacterial migrants may contribute to the pathophysiological processes in sepsis through direct interactions or indirectly by modulating colonic microbiota community structure and function.
A novel mass cytometry protocol optimized for immunophenotyping of low-frequency antigen-specific T cells
Authors: Balz Kathrin , Grange Magali , Pegel Uta , Karamya Zain A. , Mello Marielle , Zhou Xiaoying , Berger Thilo , Bloch Konstantin , Dunham Diane , Chinthrajah Sharon , Nadeau Kari , Luche Hervé , Skevaki Chrysanthi
Published: January 2024

Understanding antigen-specific T-cell responses, for example, following virus infections or allergen exposure, is of high relevance for the development of vaccines and therapeutics. We aimed on optimizing immunophenotyping of T cells after antigen stimulation by improving staining procedures for flow and mass cytometry. Our method can be used for primary cells of both mouse and human origin for the detection of low-frequency T-cell response using a dual-barcoding system for individual samples and conditions. First, live-cell barcoding was performed using anti-CD45 antibodies prior to an in vitro T-cell stimulation assay. Second, to discriminate between stimulation conditions and prevent cell loss, sample barcoding was combined with a commercial barcoding solution. This dual-barcoding approach is cell sparing and, therefore, particularly relevant for samples with low cell numbers. To further reduce cell loss and to increase debarcoding efficiency of multiplexed samples, we combined our dual-barcoding approach with a new centrifugation-free washing system by laminar flow (Curiox™). Finally, to demonstrate the benefits of our established protocol, we assayed virus-specific T-cell response in SARS-CoV-2–vaccinated and SARS-CoV-2–infected patients and compared with healthy non-exposed individuals by a high-parameter CyTOF analysis. We could reveal a heterogeneity of phenotypes among responding CD4, CD8, and gd-T cells following antigen-specific stimulations. Our protocol allows to assay antigen-specific responses of minute populations of T cells to virus-derived peptides, allergens, or other antigens from the same donor sample, in order to investigate qualitative and quantitative differences.
Proximity and size of protected areas in Asian borderlands enable transboundary conservation
Authors: Kamath Vignesh , Oliveras Menor Imma , Macdonald David W. , Farhadinia Mohammad S.
Published: January 2024

Asia has over 80% of the Earth’s border hotspots for threatened transboundary wildlife, yet only limited research has been done on the distribution of protected areas across international borders in the continent. To address this gap, we conducted a spatial analysis of protected areas across 42 Asian countries. Our study aimed to understand the distribution, proximity, and land-use changes within border protected areas. Two cases were examined, evaluating the spatial relationships at different buffer distances from international borders. Our findings revealed that Asian countries have larger protected areas in borderlands, particularly up to 50 km from borders, as compared to regions further away from the border. Importantly, the median distance between protected areas across international borders is nearly three times shorter than those within the same country. However, the rate of change in natural habitats within protected areas between 2001 and 2019 showed no correlation with their distance from the border. The proximity of protected areas across Asian borders offers opportunities for enhancing connectivity. A larger extent of multi-use protected areas (IUCN1-6+) near borders compared to strict protected areas (IUCN1-4) can facilitate the engagement of communities, which are crucial in transboundary conservation initiatives. Our results can help Asian countries as they work toward their commitments as part of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to protect at least 30% of the Earth’s surface area by 2030.
Intermediate and long-term residual cardiovascular risk in patients with established cardiovascular disease treated with statins
Authors: Vijayaraghavan K. , Baum S. , Desai N. R. , Voyce S. J.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Statins remain the first-line treatment for secondary prevention of cardiovascular (CV) events, with lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) being their therapeutic target. Although LDL-C reduction significantly lowers CV risk, residual risk persists, even in patients with well-controlled LDL-C; thus, statin add-on agents that target pathways other than LDL-C, such as the omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid, may help to further reduce persistent CV risk in patients with established CV disease.

Methods

This narrative review examines the contemporary literature assessing intermediate- and long-term event rates in patients with established CV disease treated with statins.

Results

CV event rates among patients treated with statins who have established CV disease, including coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, or peripheral arterial disease, accumulate over time, with a cumulative incidence of CV events reaching up to approximately 40% over 10 years. Recurrent stroke occurs in up to 19% of patients seven years after a first cerebrovascular event. Repeat revascularization and CV-related death occurs in up to 38% and 33% of patients with peripheral artery disease after three years, respectively.

Discussion

Additional treatment strategies, such as eicosapentaenoic acid, are needed to reduce persistent CV risk in patients with established CV disease treated with statins.
Implantation of atrial flow regulator devices in patients with congenital heart disease and children with severe pulmonary hypertension or cardiomyopathy—an international multicenter case series
Authors: Butera Gianfranco , Piccinelli Enrico , Kolesnik Adam , Averin Konstantin , Seaman Cameron , Castaldi Biagio , Cuppini Elena , Fraisse Alain , Bautista-Rodriguez Carles , Hascoet Sebastien , D'Amore Carmen , Baruteau Alban-Elouen , Blasco Pedro Betrián , Bianco Lisa , Eicken Andreas , Jones Matthew , Kuo James A. , Rajszys Grazyna Brzezinska
Published: January 2024

Background

The Occlutech Atrial Flow Regulator (AFR) is a self-expandable double-disc nitinol device with a central fenestration. Its use has been approved in the adult population with heart failure and described for pulmonary hypertension (PH). Only case reports and small series have been published about its use in the paediatric population and for congenital heart disease (CHD).

Objectives

The authors sought to investigate the feasibility, safety, and short-term follow-up of AFR implantation in patients with CHD or children with PH or cardiomyopathy.

Methods

This is a multicenter retrospective study involving 10 centers worldwide. Patients of any age with CHD or patients aged < 18 years with PH or cardiomyopathy needing AFR implantation were included.

Results

A total of 40 patients underwent AFR implantation. The median age of the population at the time of the procedure was 58.5 months (IQR: 31.5–142.5) and the median weight was 17 kg (IQR: 10–46). A total of 26 (65.0%) patients had CHD, nine (22.5%) children, a cardiomyopathy, and five (12.5%), a structurally normal heart. The implantation success rate was 100%. There were two early and one late device thrombosis. Two patients (5.0%) with dilated cardiomyopathy on extracorporeal membrane oxygenator (ECMO) died during the hospital stay. At a median follow-up of 330 days (IQR: 125–593), 37 (92.5%) patients were alive. At follow-up, 20 patients improved their New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, 12 patients did not change their NYHA class, and one patient with idiopathic PH worsened.

Conclusions

AFR implantation in patients with CHD and children with severe PH or cardiomyopathy is promising and seems to have beneficial effects at short-term follow-up.
Clinical implications of respiratory ciliary dysfunction in heterotaxy patients with congenital heart disease: elevated risk of postoperative airway complications
Authors: Zhao Tingting , Huang Xianghui , Chen Weicheng , Gao Han , Feng Zhiyu , Tan Chaozhong , Sun Jingwei , Ma Xiaojing , Yan Weili , Sheng Wei , Huang Guoying
Published: January 2024

Objective

Cardiac surgery in Congenital Heart Disease-Heterotaxy (CHD-HTX) patients often leads to increased postoperative airway complications. Abnormal respiratory ciliary function, resembling primary ciliary dyskinesia, has been observed. We expanded the sample size by retrospectively reviewing Ciliary Dysfunction (CD) in CHD-HTX patients to verify the increased risk of post-surgical respiratory complications.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of 69 CHD-HTX patients undergoing cardiac surgery, assessing abnormal respiratory function using nasal nitric oxide (nNO) levels and nasal ciliary motion observed in video microscopy. Data collected included demographics, surgical details, postoperative complications, length of stay, ICU hours, salvage procedures, intubation duration, and mortality.

Results

The CD and no-CD cohorts exhibited notable similarities in risk adjustment in Congenital Heart Surgery-1 (RACHS-1) risk categories, age at the time of surgery, and the duration of follow-up evaluations. We observed a trend toward an increased length of post-operative stay in the CD group (15.0 vs. 14.0; P = 0.0017). CHD-HTX patients with CD showed significantly higher rates of respiratory complications (70% vs. 44.4%; P = 0.008). There were no notable variances observed in postoperative hospitalization duration, mechanical ventilation period, or surgical mortality.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that CHD-HTX patients with CD may face an elevated risk of respiratory complications. These results offer guidance for perioperative management and serve as a reference for further pathological studies.
Challenges and opportunities for the development of future teachers’ professional competence in Latvia
Authors: Āboltiņa Līga , Lāma Gatis , Sarva Edīte , Kaļķe Baiba , Āboliņa Anda , Daniela Linda , Rubene Zanda , Bernande Māra
Published: January 2024

In the 21st century, characterized by the continual evolution of education and new educational needs being raised and demanded, teachers’ professional competence encounters a series of challenges. In the context of Latvian education, it is highly significant to enhance the professional competence of future teachers and adapt it according to real-world challenges and opportunities. The professional competence of future teachers encounters challenges ranging from adapting to technological advancements to fostering an inclusive learning environment for diverse groups of students. In this research mixed method approach is applied, quantitative data from the self-evaluation instrument developed through the project “Development and Implementation of the Education Quality Monitoring System” (2nd round) and qualitative data from focus group discussions with education stakeholders are employed to analyze the challenges and opportunities for the development of future teachers’ professional competence. Based on the analysis, challenges for the enhancement of future teachers’ professional competence were identified at both institutional and individual levels among those strengthening schools as learning organizations and fostering open mindset toward change. By shedding light on these challenges and opportunities, this study contributes to the broader discourse on teachers’ preparation and continuous development, ensuring their readiness to navigate the multifaceted landscape of modern education effectively.
Case report: Twice-daily tolvaptan dosing regimen in a challenging case of hyponatremia due to SIAD
Authors: Arecco Anna , Demontis Davide , Della Sala Leonardo , Musso Natale , Gay Stefano , Boschetti Mara , Ferone Diego , Gatto Federico
Published: January 2024

Background

Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD) is one of the most frequent causes of euvolemic hyponatremia (serum sodium levels < 135 mEq/L) and it represents more than 35% of hyponatremia cases in hospitalized patients. It is characterized by an inappropriate vasopressin (AVP)/antidiuretic hormone (ADH) secretion, which occurs independently from effective serum osmolality or circulating volume, leading to water retention via its action on type 2 vasopressin receptor in the distal renal tubules. Corpus callosum agenesis (CCA) is one of the most common congenital brain defects, which can be associated to alterations in serum sodium levels. This report presents a rare case of chronic hyponatremia associated with SIAD in a woman with CCA, whose correction of serum sodium levels only occurred following twice-daily tolvaptan administration.

Case presentation

A 30-year-old female was admitted to our hospital for non-acute hyponatremia with dizziness, headache, distal tremors, and concentration deficits. She had profound hyponatremia (Na 121 mmol/L) with measured plasma hypo-osmolality (259 mOsm/Kg) and urinary osmolality greater than 100 mOsm/Kg (517 mOsm/Kg). She presented clinically as normovolemic. After the exclusion of other causes of normovolemic hyponatremia, such as hypothyroidism and adrenal insufficiency, a diagnosis of SIAD was established. We have ruled out paraneoplastic, inflammatory, and infectious causes, as well as ischemic events. Her medical history showed a CCA and frontal teratoma. We administered tolvaptan initially at a low dosage (15 mg once a day) with persistence of hyponatremia. Therefore, the dosage was first doubled (30 mg once a day) and then increased to 45 mg once a day with an initial improvement in serum sodium levels, although not long-lasting. We therefore tried dividing the 45 mg tolvaptan administration into two doses of 30 mg and 15 mg respectively, using an off-label treatment schedule, thus achieving long-lasting serum sodium levels in the low-normal range associated with a general clinical improvement.

Conclusions

This report underlines the importance of the correct diagnosis, management and treatment of SIAD, as well as the need for further studies about the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of vasopressin receptor antagonists.
How do volatile and non-volatile energy factors affect energy OFDI? evidence from simultaneous equation model
Authors: Liu Yanfeng , Jin Mengjie , Zhao Shanshan , Qi Guanqiu
Published: January 2024

Its reliance on energy from individual countries has seriously affected its energy security and foreign policy. Therefore, reducing dependence on energy from specific countries and decomposing energy import channels have become crucial goals in China’s efforts to resolve its energy crisis and ensure its national energy security. This study aims to analyze the impact of energy factors on the location determinants of China’s energy OFDI to help reduce energy dependence and improve China’s energy security. Simultaneous equation models and panel data from 162 target countries for the period 2005–2020 are used to examine the coincidental relationship between volatile and non-volatile energy and intermediary factors in investment target countries and China’s energy OFDI. The simultaneous equation model, comprising a system of equations, constitutes a multifaceted modeling approach that allows examination of two or more dependent variables. This study provides insights into energy investment in China through simultaneous equation modelling, it guides the implementation strategies for home and target countries of energy investment.
Construction and application of workover priority evaluation model for surface coalbed methane low production wells based on Entropy-TOPSIS
Authors: Li Yanhe , Zhu Lin , Lv Runsheng , Ni Xiaoming
Published: January 2024

Affected by geology and mining, a certain number of low-yield wells will appear after a period of production in coalbed methane wells, and technical repairs are urgently needed to restore their production capacity to the maximum. Therefore, it is of great significance to establish a reasonable and feasible theoretical standard to evaluate the workover priority of CBM wells for the efficient utilization of CBM resources. From the perspectives of technical feasibility and economic rationality, eight key indicators that affect the cost performance of CBM well workover are screened. Combining the entropy value method and the TOPSIS comprehensive ranking method, the surface coalbed methane well repair priority entropy value-TOPSIS comprehensive evaluation model was constructed, and the surface coalbed methane well repair priority evaluation was carried out by taking 9 surface coalbed methane wells that urgently needed to be repaired in a mine as the evaluation objects. The evaluation results show that among the economic indicators, the average gas production per meter in the 30 days before the coal bed methane well was stopped and the cumulative gas production per meter before the stop had a relatively high weight, which were 29.68% and 13.83% respectively, This shows that in coalbed methane well workover operations, the long-term gas production potential of the coalbed methane well and the gas production capacity when disturbed by harmful factors are the decisive factors affecting the priority of coalbed methane well workover; Among the technical indicators, the degree of casing deformation and the depth of the coalbed methane well have a relatively high weight, accounting for 11.34% and 9.90% respectively, This shows that the smaller the deformation of the wellbore casing and the shallower the depth of the coalbed methane well, the higher the priority of the workover of the coalbed methane well; The ranking of the production recovery rates of the three coalbed methane wells in the Pingdingshan mining area after workover operations is consistent with the results output by the evaluation model, which proves that the evaluation model is reasonable for determining the priority of workovers for damaged wellbores; This evaluation model can provide a theoretical reference for small and medium-sized coalbed methane development companies to determine the priority of workovers.
Decentralized control strategy of air-conditioning loads for primary frequency regulation based on environment information
Authors: Jiang Baofeng , Yang Zheng , Xiong Wei , Chen Lingyu , Wang Pengyu , Liao Siyang
Published: January 2024

The existing research on orderly participation of air conditioning load in frequency regulation needs a relatively complete communication architecture, but it cannot be achieved on a large scale in practice. This paper proposes a decentralized control method for the air-conditioning load control to participate in the power system primary frequency regulation, so that the air-conditioning loads can respond to system frequency deviation in an orderly manner without communication. Firstly, the triggering frequency is set to prevent the air-conditioning load from being over- or under-adjusted based on the frequency response interval, which is determined according to the outdoor temperature. Secondly, the response priority is arranged according to the holding time to ensure an orderly response of the air-conditioning load without communication. Finally, a simulation example of a thousand air-conditioning loads under different control strategy proves that the proposed method can achieve better frequency regulation effect.
Satellite-based drought assessment in the endorheic basin of Lake Balkhash
Authors: Yegizbayeva Asset , Koshim Asyma G. , Bekmuhamedov Nurlan , Aliaskarov Duman T. , Alimzhanova Nazira , Aitekeyeva Nurgul
Published: January 2024

Introduction: This study investigates into the drought-prone region of the Lake Balkhash basin, conducting a thorough analysis spanning 2 decades, emphasizing its significant impact on agriculture and water challenges in Central Asia. Beyond the specific focus on this region, the research aims to contribute valuable insights that extend our understanding of the broader implications of drought in the area.

Methods: Utilizing MODIS satellite imagery, the study employs the Vegetation Health Index a comprehensive indicator combining the Vegetation Condition Index and Temperature Condition Index ranging from 0 (extreme aridity) to 100 (optimal moisture). The assessment of drought conditions from 2000 to 2020 includes probabilistic mapping, trend analysis, and Pearson’s correlation coefficients. Connections with hydrological factors, such as river water levels and the Balkhash Lake area, are explored, along with in-depth analyses of land use data and the GRACE dataset on water equivalent thickness, enhancing the study’s depth and reliability.

Results: Drought affected approximately 44% of the Balkhash Lake Basin during the study period, impacting both Kazakhstan and China. Severe drought episodes occurred in 2000, 2008, 2014, and 2015, highlighting the region’s vulnerability. Analysis of drought trends revealed diverse patterns: 23% exhibited an increase, 17% showed a decrease, and 60% remained stable. Correlations between drought and hydrological parameters varied among stations, with positive correlations at Kapshagay and Shelek Stations, a weak correlation at Ayagoz Station, and a significant positive correlation at Lepsy despite the elevation.

Discussion: This research underscores the intricate link between drought and hydrological factors in the Balkhash Lake Basin, emphasizing the need for precise water resource management and climate adaptation. Crucial strategies include proactive monitoring, tailored interventions, and the application of probabilistic drought mapping to enhance water supply management, contributing actionable insights for sustainable practices in the region.

Conclusion: This study significantly advances our understanding of drought dynamics in the Balkhash Lake Basin, recommending adaptive strategies, site-specific interventions, and sustainable water management. The findings provide a crucial foundation for informed water resource decisions in Central Asia, emphasizing the importance of region-specific approaches to address diverse challenges posed by drought.
NDVI joint process-based models drive a learning ensemble model for accurately estimating cropland net primary productivity (NPP)
Authors: Wang Zhaosheng , Liu Zhengjia , Huang Mei
Published: January 2024

The accurate estimation of cropland net primary productivity (NPP) remains a significant challenge. We hypothesized that incorporating prior information on NPP simulated by process-based models into normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data would improve the accuracy of cropland ecosystem NPP estimations. We used NDVI, MNPP (NPP of process-based model), and SNPP (statistic-based NPP) data estimated by nine process-based models and yield statistics to build a learning ensemble of the random forest model (LERFM). We used the new model to re-evaluate the cropland NPP in China from 1982 to 2010. Large spatial discrepancies among MNPPs, which indicate uncertainties in cropland NPP estimation using different methods, were observed when compared to SNPP. The LERFM model showed a slightly underestimation of only −0.37%, while the multi-model average process-based model (MMEM) strongly underestimated −15.46% of the SNPP. LERFM accurately estimated cropland NPP with a high simulation skill score. A consistent increasing trend in the LERFM and MMEM NPP during 1982–2010 and a significant positive correlation (r = 0.795, p < 0.001) between their total NPP indicate that the LERFM model can better describe spatiotemporal dynamic changes in cropland NPP. This study suggests that a learning ensemble method that combines the NDVI and process-based simulation results can effectively improve cropland NPP.
Characterizing bioaerosols in PM2.5 in a semi-arid region experiencing desert dust events
Authors: Karimi Hossein , Nikaeen Mahnaz , Shamsizadeh Zahra , Hajizadeh Yaghoub
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution is a global public health concern, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions that experience dust events. Exposure to PM2.5 has been associated with various short- and long-term health effects, which can be attributed to the composition of the fine particles. This study aimed to assess the concentration of bacteria and fungi in PM2.5 in the air of Isfahan, Iran which experiences air pollution.

Methods: A total of thirty-nine PM2.5 samples were collected over 1 year. Bacterial and fungal concentrations associated with PM2.5 were measured using both culture-based method and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results: The average concentration of PM2.5 was found to be 56 μg m−3, with many samples exceeding the recommended limit of 15 μg m−3 set by the World Health Organization for PM2.5 in ambient air. The mean culturable bacterial and fungal concentrations were 39 and 4 CFU m−3, respectively which showed a significant difference compared to the results obtained through real-time PCR. No significant correlation was found between the levels of bacterial and fungal cells and PM2.5 concentrations. The dominant phyla found in PM2.5 were Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, while Proteobacteria as Gram-negative bacteria were rarely detected.

Discussion: The findings suggest that the climate conditions in Isfahan, characterized by its semi-arid nature with low humidity content, influences the activity and viability of microbial populations, resulting in low concentrations of bioaerosols in PM2.5. Furthermore, it seems that desert dust events do not contribute to increasing the potential health risks associated with bacterial and fungal bioaerosols in PM2.5.
Diadromous fish run assessment: a double-observer model using acoustic cameras to correct imperfect detection and improve population abundance estimates
Authors: Boulenger Clarisse , Roussel Jean-Marc , Beaulaton Laurent , Martignac François , Nevoux Marie
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Diadromous fish populations have strongly declined over decades, and many species are protected through national and international regulations. They account for less than 1% of fish biodiversity worldwide, but they are among the most perceptible linkages between freshwater and marine ecosystems. During their migration back and forth, diadromous fish species are subjected to many anthropogenic threats, among which river damming can severely limit access to vital freshwater habitats and jeopardize population sustainability. Here, we developed a method based on a double-observer modeling approach for estimating the abundance of diadromous fish during their migration in rivers.

Methods

The method relies on two independent and synchronous records of fish counts that were analyzed jointly thanks to a hierarchical Bayesian model to estimate detection efficiencies and daily fish passage. We used simulated data to test model robustness and identify conditions under which the developed approach can be used. The approach was then applied to empirical data to estimate the annual silver eel run in the Touques River, France.

Results

The analysis of simulated datasets and the study case gives evidence that the model can provide robust,accurate, and precise estimates of detection probabilities and total fish abundance in a set of conditions dependent on the information provided in the data (annual distribution of fish passage, annual number of observation, pairing period, etc.).

Discussion

Then, the method can be applied to various species and counting systems, including nomad acoustic camera devices. We discuss its relevance for programs on river continuity restoration, notably to quantify population restoration associated with dam removals.
Genome-wide association with footrot in hair and wool sheep
Authors: Cinar Mehmet Ulas , Oliveira Ryan D. , Hadfield Tracy S. , Lichtenwalner Anne , Brzozowski Richard J. , Settlemire C. Thomas , Schoenian Susan G. , Parker Charles , Neibergs Holly L. , Cockett Noelle E. , White Stephen N.
Published: January 2024

Ovine footrot is an infectious disease with important contributions from Dichelobacter nodosus and Fusobacterium necrophorum. Footrot is characterized by separation of the hoof from underlying tissue, and this causes severe lameness that negatively impacts animal wellbeing, growth, and profitability. Large economic losses result from lost production as well as treatment costs, and improved genetic tools to address footrot are a valuable long-term goal. Prior genetic studies had examined European wool sheep, but hair sheep breeds such as Katahdin and Blackbelly have been reported to have increased resistance to footrot, as well as to intestinal parasites. Thus, footrot condition scores were collected from 251 U.S. sheep including Katahdin, Blackbelly, and European-influenced crossbred sheep with direct and imputed genotypes at OvineHD array (>500,000 single nucleotide polymorphism) density. Genome-wide association was performed with a mixed model accounting for farm and principal components derived from animal genotypes, as well as a random term for the genomic relationship matrix. We identified three genome-wide significant associations, including SNPs in or near GBP6 and TCHH. We also identified 33 additional associated SNPs with genome-wide suggestive evidence, including a cluster of 6 SNPs in a peak near the genome-wide significance threshold located near the glutamine transporter gene SLC38A1. These findings suggest genetic susceptibility to footrot may be influenced by genes involved in divergent biological processes such as immune responses, nutrient availability, and hoof growth and integrity. This is the first genome-wide study to investigate susceptibility to footrot by including hair sheep and also the first study of any kind to identify multiple genome-wide significant associations with ovine footrot. These results provide a foundation for developing genetic tests for marker-assisted selection to improve resistance to ovine footrot once additional steps like fine mapping and validation are complete.
Role of interferons in the antiviral battle: from virus-host crosstalk to prophylactic and therapeutic potential in SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Mihaescu Grigore , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen , Filip Roxana , Bleotu Coralia , Ditu Lia Mara , Constantin Marian , Cristian Roxana-Elena , Grigore Raluca , Bertesteanu Serban Vifor , Bertesteanu Gloria , Vrancianu Corneliu Ovidiu
Published: January 2024

Mammalians sense antigenic messages from infectious agents that penetrate the respiratory and digestive epithelium, as well as signals from damaged host cells through membrane and cytosolic receptors. The transduction of these signals triggers a personalized response, depending on the nature of the stimulus and the host’s genetics, physiological condition, and comorbidities. Interferons (IFNs) are the primary effectors of the innate immune response, and their synthesis is activated in most cells within a few hours after pathogen invasion. IFNs are primarily synthesized in infected cells, but their anti-infective effect is extended to the neighboring cells by autocrine and paracrine action. The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pandemic in 2019 was a stark reminder of the potential threat posed by newly emerging viruses. This pandemic has also triggered an overwhelming influx of research studies aiming to unveil the mechanisms of protective versus pathogenic host immune responses induced by SARS‐CoV‐2. The purpose of this review is to describe the role of IFNs as vital players in the battle against SARS‐CoV-2 infection. We will briefly characterize and classify IFNs, present the inductors of IFN synthesis, their sensors, and signaling pathways, and then discuss the role of IFNs in controlling the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its clinical outcome. Finally, we will present the perspectives and controversies regarding the prophylactic and therapeutic potential of IFNs in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Gut microbiota does not play a mediating role in the causal association between inflammatory bowel disease and several its associated extraintestinal manifestations: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lu Weipeng , Cen Jiepeng , Dai Qijie , Tao Heqing , Peng Liang
Published: January 2024

Background and objectives

Observational study has found inflammatory bowel disease to be associated with multiple extraintestinal manifestations. To this end, we characterized the causal association between inflammatory bowel disease and extraintestinal manifestations through a Mendelian randomization study and further explored the role of intestinal flora in inflammatory bowel disease and the extraintestinal manifestations associated with it.

Materials and methods

We genetically predicted the causal relationship between inflammatory bowel disease and twenty IBD-related extraintestinal manifestations (including sarcoidosis, iridocyclitis, interstitial lung disease, atopic dermatitis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthropathies, primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cholangitis). We used the full genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics on gut microbiota in 18,340 participants from 24 cohorts to explore its role in the casual relationships between IBD and IBD-related extraintestinal manifestations. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was used as the main analytical method to assess the causal associations. We performed Cochran’s Q test to examine the heterogeneity. To assess the robustness of the IVW results, we further performed sensitivity analyses including the weighted median method, MR-Egger regression, and Mendelian Randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO) test. The leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was further performed to monitor if significant associations were dominated by a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP).

Result

A total of eight extraintestinal manifestations were found to be at elevated risk of development due to inflammatory bowel diseases. A total of 11 causal relationships were found between IBD and gut microbiota, four of which were stable. Between gut microbiota and these eight extraintestinal manifestations, a total of 67 nominal causal associations were identified, of which 13 associations were stable, and notably 4 associations were strongly correlated.

Conclusion

Through the two-sample MR analysis, we identified extraintestinal manifestations that were causally associated with inflammatory bowel disease and obtained multiple associations from inflammatory bowel disease and gut microbiota, and gut microbiota and extraintestinal manifestations in further analyses. These associations may provide useful biomarkers and potential targets for pathogenesis and treatment.
Regulatory T cells in spondyloarthropathies: genetic evidence, functional role, and therapeutic possibilities
Authors: Rodolfi Stefano , Davidson Connor , Vecellio Matteo
Published: January 2024

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a very specialized subset of T lymphocytes: their main function is controlling immune responses during inflammation. T-regs involvement in autoimmune and immune-mediated rheumatic diseases is well-described. Here, we critically review the up-to-date literature findings on the role of Tregs in spondyloarthropathies, particularly in ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a polygenic inflammatory rheumatic disease that preferentially affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints. Genetics discoveries helped in elucidating pathogenic T-regs gene modules and functional involvement. We highlight T-regs tissue specificity as crucial point, as T-regs might have a distinct epigenomic and molecular profiling depending on the different site of tissue inflammation. Furthermore, we speculate about possible therapeutic interventions targeting, or enhancing, Treg cells in spondyloarthropathies.
Canopy-forming algae improve the colonization success of the vermetid reef-builder Dendropoma cristatum (Biondi 1859) on artificial substrates
Authors: La Marca Emanuela Claudia , Ape Francesca , Rinaldi Alessandro , Spoto Marco , Martinez Marco , Dini Enrico , Mirto Simone , Montalto Valeria
Published: January 2024

Positive interactions among foundation species play a crucial role in achieving and maintaining a good state of the marine environment, enhancing the habitat stability, productivity, and the whole ecosystem functioning. In this regard, macroalgal canopies may affect the biotic and abiotic environmental features, improving the habitat quality for the establishment of other sedentary organisms. In this study, we investigated the effect of intertidal canopy-forming algae on the colonization success of the central-Mediterranean vermetid reef-builder Dendropoma cristatum (Biondi 1859) on artificial substrates produced for reef restoration purposes. An in situ experiment was carried out along the northwestern coast of Sicily during the breeding season of the vermetid snails, by using geopolymer concrete settlement discs with a topographic design to facilitate the vermetid settlement. The discs were placed on the seaward reef rim, underneath the macroalgal canopy, and on adjacent control bare reef areas. The canopy effect on the understory algal colonization and the environmental temperature at the vermetid settlement substrate were also surveyed. After 35 days of field exposure, the vermetid settlement increased by 1.7-fold on the discs underneath the macroalgal canopy compared with that on the bare settlement discs. Moreover, the understory algae showed a higher homogeneity and a lower percent cover on the settlement discs underneath the macroalgal canopy. The peaks of temperature were higher on the bare reef, and the macroalgal canopy also reduced temperature variability under maximum sun irradiance during the diurnal low tides. The vermetid settlement was positively correlated to the canopy cover, which, directly or indirectly, improved the success of colonization of the reef-builder snails on artificial substrates. The deployment of settlement discs where canopy-forming algae are naturally present may facilitate the gardening of vermetid clusters that may be translocated to restock the reef-builder density at degraded areas.