bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Motivasi Video Game terhadap Niat Pembelian dalam Aplikasi
Authors: Budiman Arif , Sama Hendi
Published: February 2023

Video game merupakan salah satu media hiburan yang terkenal dan berkembang pesat selama beberapa dekade terakhir. Genre aksi pertempuran berbasis senjata dari sudut pandang orang pertama yaitu game FPS sudah menjadi salah satu genre game paling terkenal di masa ini, salah satu contoh game FPS adalah Valorant. Studi kasus ini dilakukan di kota Batam. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis apakah motivasi gaming mampu mempengaruhi dan memotivasi niat beli pemain untuk membeli barang virtual di game Valorant menggunakan multi metode. Dalam penelitian ini motivasi gaming dibagi menjadi 3 yaitu; motivasi hedonis, motivasi utilitarian, dan motivasi sosial. Populasi yang ditargetkan adalah penduduk yang pernah bermain game Valorant di Kota Batam. Minimal pengambilan sampel sebanyak 385 responden menggunakan teknik stratified disproportionate random sampling. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode multi-method yaitu, campuran antara metode kuantitatif dengan kualitatif. Peneliti akan menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan melakukan penyebaran kuisioner untuk mengetahui motivasi yang dapat mempengaruhi purchase intention. Peneliti juga akan menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan melakukan wawancara terhadap para pemain Valorant di Batam melalui whatsapp dan discord. Metode penelitian yang digunakan merupakan adaptasi dari metode penelitian Tsung-Sheng Chang dan kawan-kawannya. Terdapat 2 hasil temuan dalam penelitian ini yaitu kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Hasil kuantitatif menunjukkan bahwa motivasi gaming mempengaruhi niat beli pemain Valorant secara signifikan. Sedangkan hasil kualitatif dalam penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa motivasi gaming tidak mempengaruhi niat beli pemain Valorant secara signifikan.
Analisa dan Pengembangan Visual Branding dengan Pendekatan R&D : Studi Kasus Barbershop
Authors: Adnas Diny Anggriani , Veren Veren
Published: February 2023

Teknologi informasi saat ini dapat dikatakan menjadi salah satu bagian besar dari kehidupan masyarakat masa kini, tanpa disadari teknologi memiliki peran penting bagi hampir setiap orang. Salah satu teknologi informasi yang memegang peranan penting yaitu internet. Seiring berkembangnya tahun, pengguna internet di Indonesia mengalami kenaikan terus menerus. Tidak hanya sebagai media pembelajaran, media komunikasi ataupun media hiburan. Tetapi pesatnya perkembangan teknologi, dunia digital dan internet tentu juga berimbas pada dunia pemasaran. Pada saat ini, para pelaku usaha mulai memanfaatkan sosial media sebagai wadah untuk meluaskan pasarannya. Hal ini menjadikan para konsumen untuk memanfaatkan sosial media sebagai wadah untuk menggali informasi mengenai sebuah produk atau jasa yang diminati. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah merancang dan mengembangkan visual branding pada barbershop agar memiliki nilai dan ciri khas di mata masyarakat. Perancangan dan pengembangan ini menggunakan aplikasi Adobe photoshop CC 2020. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah Research and Development serta 5 tahapan ADDIE yang terdiri dari analyze, design, development, implement dan evaluate.
Sistem Pendukung Keputusan Rekomendasi Pengembangan Karir dan Promosi Jabatan Struktural dengan Metode Simple Additive Weighting (Saw) di Lingkungan Pemerintah Kota Tegal
Authors: Jaya Suhana Minah , Triono Wahyu , Nazar Moh. Syaiful
Published: February 2023

Salah satu kewenangan yang dimiliki oleh Badan Kepegawaian Pendidikan dan Pelatihan Daerah Kota Tegal adalah Kegiatan Pengembangan Karir dan Promosi Jabatan. Terdapat banyak kendala dalam kegiatan tersebut yaitu jumlah data pegawai yang banyak dan pengolahan data masih manual sehingga mengakibatkan proses pengambilan keputusan yang kompleks dan memakan banyak waktu. Selain itu formulasi yang digunakan masih belum sesuai dengan amanat PP No 17 Tahun 2020 tentang pendekatan sistem merit pada manajemen ASN. Sistem merit adalah kebijakan dan manajemen ASN yang berdasarkan pada kualifikasi, kompetensi dan kinerja. Dalam penelitian ini, penulis membuat sebuah sistem pendukung keputusan (SPK) dengan metode simple additive weighting (SAW) yang akan memudahkan dan menghemat waktu dalam menyediakan rekomendasi nominasi ASN pada proses pengembangan karir dan promosi jabatan. Metode penelitian ini menerapkan Metode Research and Development (R&D). Metode ini dipilih karena mempunyai kesesuaian dengan siklus pengembangan perangkat lunak atau SDLC waterfall.
Implementasi IoT dalam Manajemen Rantai Pasok Distribusi Elpiji pada Agen Gas 3 Kg di Kota Palembang
Authors: Wirawan Saladin , Ita Ita
Published: February 2023

Perusahaan yang ditunjuk sebagai distributor LPG 3 kg harus bisa merencanakan mulai dari pasokan hingga distribusi ke konsumen. Dalam proses pendistribusian gas elpiji seberat 3 kg, telah dibangun sistem berbasis internet untuk memudahkan pihak-pihak yang terlibat berinteraksi satu sama lain dalam melakukan proses transaksi dan distribusi. Untuk itu, penerapan IoT sangat membantu proses ini. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa implementasinya adalah sebagai berikut: Implementasi IoT dalam manajemen rantai pasok distribusi LPG pada agen gas 3 kg diawali dengan penyaluran Schedule Agreement yang dikeluarkan oleh PT Pertamina Patra Niaga yang terkoneksi antara Agen Gas, SPPBE dan Bank. Dimana kemudian Agen Gas akan melakukan penebusan alokasi sesuai dengan Schedule Agreement melalui pembayaran melalui Bank. Dimana pembayaran ini akan terhubung dengan SPPBE dan PT Pertamina Patra Niaga. Selanjutnya, Agen Gas melakukan input data Sim3lon yang terhubung IoT
Implementasi User Centered Design Degan Uji ISO 9126 pada Learning Management System Berbasis Android
Authors: Irsan Muhamad , Husain Ahmad
Published: February 2023

Penelitian ini berjudul “Implementasi User Centered Design dengan Uji Iso 9126 Pada Learning Management System  Berbasis Android”. Pemodelan yang digunakan dalam menganalisa dan merancang sistem informasi ini adalah dengan pemodelan Analisis dan Perancangan Berorientasi Obyek (Object Oriented Analysis and Design) menggunakan Unified Modelling Language (UML). Kualitas perangkat lunak yang dihasilkan diuji berdasarkan empat karakteristik kualitas perangkat lunak model ISO 9126, yaitu: functionality, reliability, usability, dan efficiency menggunakan metode kuesioner. Hasil yang diharapkan dalam Aplikasi Learning Man agement System ini mampu memberikan kontribusi terhadap pengguna, sehingga dapat memperoleh informasi yang diinginkan dengan cepat dan akurat serta meningkatkan kepuasan pengguna
Analisa Perhitungan Kinerja Keuangan Pada PT. Bank Tabungan Negara (PERSERO), Tbk Menggunakan Rasio Solvabilitas dan Profitabilitas
Authors: Kusumawardani Angrawit
Published: February 2023

Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan menganalisa kinerja keuangan pada PT. Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero), Tbk periode tahun 2016 – 2021. Metode yang digunakan yaitu penelitian deskiptif dengan menggunakan metodologi kuantitatif. Sumber data yang digunakan adalah data laporan keuangan. Analisis rasio keuangan adalah metode analisis data yang digunakan. Hasil penelitian yang didapatkan yaitu: rasio solvabilitas untuk menghitung bagaimana aset perusahaan di bebankan kepada hutang menggunakan indikator debt to aset ratio, debt to equity ratio, dan time interest earned ratio dalam keadaan “kurang baik”. Rasio profitabilitas untuk menghitung kapasitas perusahaan dalam menghasilkan keuntungan menggunakan rasio return on aset ratio, return on equity ratio, net profit margin dalam keadaan “cukup baik”.
Pengaruh Stuktur Modal, Leverage, Ukuran Perusahaan dan Pertumbuhan Penjualan terhadap Profitabilitas pada Perusahaan Consumer Goods yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia 2018-2021
Authors: Nurdiansyah Indi , Silaen Heri Nanda Pratama , Sitepu Sorongan Hasahatan , Togatorop Surya Angga , Wulandari Bayu
Published: February 2023

Sektor Consumer Goods memegang peranan penting dalam perekonomian dan pembangunan di Indonesia. Sektor Consumer Goods menyumbang sebesar 17,34 % (www.kemenperin.go.id) Besarnya persentase ini menjadi perhatian para investor untuk berinvestasi dan menghasilkan profit.. Pendekatan kuantitatif mengolah data statistik dengan menggunakan regresi linier berganda. Jenis penelitian kuantitatif dan sifatnya sebab akibat.Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah 96 perusahaan makakanan dan miniman yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2018-2021.Sampel sebanyak 24 Perusahaan. Hasil penelitiannya ialah Sturktur modal, leverage, ukuran perusahaan, pertumbuhan perusahaan baik secara parsial dan simultan berpengaruh namun tidak signifikan Terhadap Profitabilitas pada Perusahaan makanan dan miniman yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2018-2021.
Manajemen Pengetahuan Bisnis dalam Transformasi Digital Sebagai Sinergi Internal Process Collaboration
Authors: Prakoso Sajiwo Tri , Amalina Nur , Erikawati Civi , Aisah Nurul , Danuari Azis
Published: February 2023

Perkembangan teknologi informasi dan komunikasi yang semakin kuat memberikan dampak positif terhadap perubahan gaya hidup bagi bisnis dan konsumen. Pentingnya memulai transformasi digital, melihat pemanfaatan teknologi dapat meningkatkan produktivitas dan meningkatkan daya saing UMKM. Penelitian tentang penggunaan alat pembayaran digital pada UMKM masih relatif terbatas dan manajemen pengetahuan pelanggan merupakan titik temu logis antara manajemen hubungan pelanggan dan manajemen pengetahuan. Tujuan utamanya adalah untuk menyelidiki teknologi digital yang mendukung usaha kecil dan menengah (UMKM) yang beroperasi di industri kreatif dalam strategi manajemen pengetahuan mereka. Metode analisis yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa adopsi teknologi dan kemampuan menjalankan bisnis berpengaruh terhadap kolaborasi proses internal, karena adopsi teknologi berpengaruh terhadap kinerja UMKM, karena kemampuan menjalankan bisnis berpengaruh terhadap kinerja UMKM, mediasi: kolaborasi proses internal tidak dapat menengahi antara adopsi teknologi dan kemampuan menjalankan bisnis berpengaruh terhadap kinerja UKM.
Sistem E-Filing, Pengetahuan Perpajakan, Kesadaran Pajak, Sosialisasi Pajak, Insentif Pajak, Regiliusitas, Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak, Account Representative
Authors: Arief Muhammad , KH Iman Indrafana
Published: February 2023

Penelitian ini untuk mengetahui apakah pengaruh penerapan sistem E-Filing, pengetahuan perpajakan,  kesadaran pajak, sosialisasi pajak, insentif pajak, religiusitas terhadap kepatuhan wajib pajak di KANWIL DJP Sumatera Utara I  akan semakin kuat/lemah ketika melaui variabel Account Representative. Populasi penelitian adalah wajib pajak yang terdaftar mengikuti program tax amnesty di KANWIL DJP Sumatera Utara I sebanyak 50.553 wajib pajak. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan rumus Slovin diperoleh jumlah minimal sampel wajib pajak orang pribadi yang terdaftar di KANWIL DJP Sumatera Utara I sebanyak 100 orang. Metode pemilihan sampel menggunakan insidental sampling, yaitu siapa yang secara kebetulan bertemu dengan peneliti digunakan sebagai sampel serta cocok sebagai sumber data. Adapun hasil Penerapan sistem E-Filing, Pengetahuan Perpajakan, Religiusitas tidak berpengaruh terhadap Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak sedangkan Kesadaran Pajak, Sosialisasi Pajak, Insentif Pajak berpengaruh terhadap Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak Penerapan sistem E-Filing, berpengaruh terhadap Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak sedangkan Pengetahuan Perpajakan, Kesadaran Pajak, Sosialisasi Pajak, Insentif pajak, Religiusitas tidak berpengaruh terhadap Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak di KANWIL DJP Sumatera Utara I akan semakin lemah ketika melaui variabel Account Representative
Rancangan Sistem Informasi Promosi Produk UMKM Desa Rambah Tengah Hulu Berbasis Web
Authors: Utami Urfi , Yasdomi Kiki , Sabri Khairul , Safitri Nadia , Rifqi Mi'rajul
Published: February 2023

Pemerintah Desa Rambah Tengah Hulu mendukung penuh pelaku UMKM yang berada di desa tersebut, dibuktikan dengan dilakukannya beberapa penyuluhan pemahaman tentang UMKM yang dapat berguna untuk para pelaku UMKM. Selain itu, pemerintahan desa juga memberikan dan menyalurkan bantuan-bantuan yang mendukung para pelaku UMKM. Namun, ada beberapa permasalahan yang dialami oleh para pelaku UMKM yang ada di Desa Rambah Tengah Hulu salah satunya permasalahan pada bidang pemasaran dan promosi produk. Saat ini, pemasaran yang dilakukan pelaku UMKM yang ada di Desa Rambah Tengah Hulu hanya memasarkan produknya di lingkungan desa tersebut, sehingga berimbas pada penjualan produk. Selain itu, pendataan khusus yang dilakukan oleh pemerintah desa tidak berjalan sebagaimana mestinyaa, banyak produk UMKM yang tidak diketahui. Maka perlu adanya sebuah sistem informasi yang dibuat khusus untuk membantu mempromosikan dan memasarkan produk hasil UMKM Desa Rambah Tengah Hulu agar dapat dijadikan sebuah wadah untuk memperluas pemasaran produk hingga diharapkan pendapatan pelaku UMKM juga semakin bertambah. Sistem informasi yang dibutuhkan tentunya dapat mempermudah dalam pengelolaan data produk agar lebih efektif dan efisien. Pada magang ini akan dibuat sebuah sistem informasi promosi produk UMKM Desa Rambah Tengah Hulu berbasis web.
Penguatan Ekonomi Masyarakat melalui Lubuk Larangan di Desa Muarakumpulan Kecamatan Muarasipongi Kabupaten Mandailing Natal
Authors: Ainun Nur , Renaldi Refli , Khaira Imamul
Published: February 2023

Pemberdayaan Ekonomi adalah penggalian potensi-potensi kemandirian dan pengembangan rakyat melalui pemberdayaan dalam  mengelola SDM (Sumber Daya Alam). Indonesia merupakan negara yang memiliki ekosistem lahan perairan dan air tawar yang luas dan didalamnya terkandung potensi keanekaragaman hayati, baik secara ekologis maupun ekonomis. Kondisi Wilayah Sumatera Utara sangat memungkinkan untuk mengembangkan  perikanan air tawar, yaitu pada sungai-sungai (yang dikenal dengan lubuk larangan). Lubuk laragan ini mempunyai potensi ekonomi bila dibina lebih baik misalnya menggunakan bibit unggul ikan, pemberian makanan yang bergizi dan teratur, serta pengorganisasian yang lebih baik untuk meningkatkan ekonomi masyarakat. Lubuk larangan adalah salah satu kearifan lokal yang dikelola secara bersama dan mempunyai badan hukum serta aturan-aturan yang disepakati secara bersama yang meliputi pihak Pemerintah Desa, dan Pihak Organisasi Pemuda. Muhammad Zein, Kepala Desa Muarakumpulan, mengatakan untuk membuat lubuk larangan harus dimulai dengan musyawarah desa untuk menentukan batas lubuk larangan. Panjang kawasan yang dijadikan lubuk larangan ini 1 km, dengan lebar 50-80 meter dan mempunyai tingkat kedalaman kurang dari 13 meter dan menjadi tempat persembunyian ikan bertelur, dan dibatasi pengambilan ikannya selama satu tahun. atas dasar kesepakatan bersama masyarakat. Secara sederhana orang akan cepat mengartikannya sebagai satu kawasan tertentu disungai yang dilindungi dalam masa waktu tertentu. Aturan juga menyebutkan, peralatan yang digunakan dalam mengambil ikan dibatasi pada alat tangkap yang dapat menjamin kelestarian ikan.
Caranguejo-raiz de mangue Goniopsis cruentata (Latreille, 1803) qualidade da carne processada por pescadoras artesanais em Cajazeiras, Sergipe-Brasil
Authors: Santos Suzan Diniz , Carvalho Michelle Garcêz de , Ferreira Igor Macedo , Farias Mirla Dayanny Pinto , Luciano Priscila de Santana , Araújo Ana Rosa da Rocha
Published: February 2023

Em Sergipe, o caranguejo-raiz-do-mangue (Goniopsis cruentata, Latreille), conhecido no Brasil como “aratu”, é considerado um dos principais recursos pesqueiros da pescadora artesanal de Cajazeiras, Sergipe-Brasil, uma vez que o processo da cadeia da carne do caranguejo-raiz-do-mangue é uma cultura e a atividade de trabalho tradicional transmitida por gerações. Até o momento, nenhum estudo avaliou a qualidade do processamento realizado por pescadores artesanais em Cajazeiras. Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo investigar características físico-químicas e microbiológicas de carnes embaladas ou não embaladas a vácuo dessas pescadoras artesanais. Os resultados revelaram que o processo de embalagem da carne de siri a vácuo não favoreceu o desenvolvimento de microrganismos coliformes termotolerantes, diferentemente dos resultados obtidos na amostra de carne de siri acondicionada apenas em sacos de polietileno. Verificou-se também que amostras de carne de caranguejo-raiz de mangue embaladas a vácuo e em sacos de polietileno de baixa densidade não apresentaram evidência de Staphylococcus coagulase positiva, bem como a ausência de Salmonella sp. Ressalta-se que o uso de embalagem a vácuo pode ser um método que aumentará a vida útil do produto, uma vez que os fatores intrínsecos da amostra como pH alcalino e umidade relativamente alta já são fatores positivos para o desenvolvimento de microrganismos.
Dificuldades encontradas na implantação dos protocolos de segurança do paciente no Brasil
Authors: Viganó Débora Rigo , Costa Marco Antonio
Published: February 2023

Introdução: A partir de 2013 o Brasil instituiu o programa Nacional de Segurança do Paciente (PNSP), a fim de promover e implementar a cultura de segurança. Desse modo os serviços de saúde passaram a ser obrigados a desenvolver e implementar tal programa. Objetivo: Analisar as dificuldades encontradas pela equipe de saúde na implantação dos protocolos de segurança do paciente em unidades de saúde brasileira. Métodos: Trata-se de uma Revisão integrativa realizada nas bases de dados Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS), Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SciELO), Biblioteca Virtual da Saúde (BVS) e Google Acadêmico por meio dos descritores, segurança do paciente, protocolos de segurança do paciente, enfermagem e implantação publicadas no período de 2012 até 2022. Resultado: A busca inicial encontrou 43 artigos, desses, 5 foram considerados como relevantes, 38 foram excluídos por serem duplicados e/ou não apresentarem desfechos de interesse, por dados incompletos ou a falta deles. Conclusão: Conclui-se que as equipes de saúde encontraram diversas condições que dificultam a implementação dos protocolos de segurança, sendo necessário a participação da alta gestão no processo e a compreensão das equipes da importância destes procedimentos.
Adaptação da The Multidimensional Depression Assessment Scale para o Brasil
Authors: Schneiders Theodora Larsen , Peloso Franciele Cristiane , Zanella Michele , Cheung Amy Ho Nam , Zibetti Murilo Ricardo
Published: February 2023

O transtorno Depressivo maior (TDM) acomete cerca de 5,8% da população brasileira, sendo o país da América do Sul com o maior número de casos. O diagnóstico do TDM é realizado através de avaliação clínica com o auxílio de instrumentos psicológicos, entretanto, muitos instrumentos mensuram a depressão de maneira unifatorial ou bifatorial. O The Multidimensional Depression Assessment Scale busca avaliar o TDM em quatro domínios principais, sendo eles emocional, cognitivo, somático e interpessoal. Este último domínio não é avaliado com frequência por instrumentos para esse diagnóstico, apesar da sua importância para os sintomas depressivos. Diante disso, o objetivo do presente estudo foi adaptar o instrumento MDAS para o contexto brasileiro. Trata-se de um estudo de adaptação que seguiu os passos de tradução, síntese, avaliação por juízes especialistas, avaliação pelo público-alvo, retrotradução e avaliação da autora original do instrumento. Os 52 itens do instrumento passaram por todos os processos e alguns sofreram modificações semânticas e linguísticas para adequação a cultura brasileira. O Coeficiente de Validade de Conteúdo (CVC) foi realizado e o instrumento obteve CVC total de 0,93 para clareza e 0,94 para pertinência. O processo de adaptação do instrumento demonstrou que a MDAS, no português brasileiro intitulada de Escala Multidimensional de Avaliação da Depressão (EMAD), apresenta bom ajuste semântico e está adequada para uso no Brasil. A EMAD apresenta uma avaliação da depressão mais ampla, que mensura diferentes dimensões, incluindo os sintomas interpessoais. Isso contribui para uma avaliação mais completa e como guia para as intervenções psicológicas na prática clínica.
Transforming Black Alibi's Jaguar into The Leopard Man
Authors: Laity K. A.
Published: February 2023

Woolrich's 1942 novel Black Alibi takes place in South America and offers up a series of suspenseful vignettes following women destined for bloody deaths. The alibi for the killer is that everyone assumes the murders to be the work of an escaped black jaguar. The set pieces offer mini-portraits of the doomed women that encourage our identification with them as individuals, the better to mourn their fate. Woolrich has far less interest in the identity of the person behind the murders than in a final plunge through the old Inquisition dungeons where the killer lurks. The 1943 film adaptation The Leopard Man, directed by Jacques Tourneur and produced by Val Lewton, offers an opportunity to once more use the black leopard Dynamite familiar to audiences from Cat People (1942). The narrative moves to New Mexico and the script by Ardel Wray highlights how human evil hides behind an animal mask. Woolrich focuses on the shadowing contrast between dark and light, on shapes and repeating motifs, to give an impression of almost surreal images. Wray's script borrows much from the novel to visualise the action of the film.
Grading Practices and Achievement Gaps in Political Science
Authors: Lee Young-Im , Martin Danielle
Published: February 2023

This study empirically tests whether existing recommendations to revisit traditional grading practices to promote equity apply to college-level Political Science education. Analyzing 90 upper-division Political Science courses in Fall 2019, Fall 2020, and Fall 2022, this preliminary study found no statistically significant impact of course policies, grading practices, individual instructors' characteristics (e.g., gender, contract type, seniority), the pandemic effect, course modality (online vs. in-person) on the DFW rates and equity gaps. Penalty for late work decreases DFW rates and equity gaps, which is the only statistically significant finding and contradicts existing recommendations for equitable grading practices.
Quiescence preconditioned nucleus pulposus stem cells alleviate intervertebral disc degeneration by enhancing cell survival via adaptive metabolism pattern in rats
Authors: Chen Qi , Yang Qu , Pan Chongzhi , Ding Rui , Wu Tianlong , Cao Jian , Wu Hui , Zhao Xiaokun , Li Bin , Cheng Xigao
Published: February 2023

Quiescence is a cellular state of reversible growth arrest required to maintain homeostasis and self-renewal. Entering quiescence allows the cells to remain in the non-dividing stage for an extended period of time and enact mechanisms to protect themselves from damage. Due to the extreme nutrient-deficient microenvironment in the intervertebral disc (IVD), the therapeutic effect of cell transplantation is limited. In this study, nucleus pulposus stem cells (NPSCs) were preconditioned into quiescence through serum starvation in vitro and transplanted to repair intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). In vitro, we investigated apoptosis and survival of quiescent NPSCs in a glucose-free medium without fetal bovine serum. Non-preconditioned proliferating NPSCs served as controls. In vivo, the cells were transplanted into a rat model of IDD induced by acupuncture, and the intervertebral disc height, histological changes, and extracellular matrix synthesis were observed. Finally, to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the quiescent state of NPSCs, the metabolic patterns of the cells were investigated through metabolomics. The results revealed that quiescent NPSCs decreased apoptosis and increased cell survival when compared to proliferating NPSCs both in vitro and in vivo, as well as maintained the disc height and histological structure significantly better than that by proliferating NPSCs. Furthermore, quiescent NPSCs have generally downregulated metabolism and reduced energy requirements in response to a switch to a nutrient-deficient environment. These findings support that quiescence preconditioning maintains the proliferation and biological function potential of NPSCs, increases cell survival under the extreme environment of IVD, and further alleviates IDD via adaptive metabolic patterns.
Biostimulants derived from organic urban wastes and biomasses: An innovative approach
Authors: Giordana Alessia , Malandrino Mery , Zambon Alfonso , Lusvardi Gigliola , Operti Lorenza , Cerrato Giuseppina
Published: February 2023

We used humic and fulvic acids extracted from digestate to formulate nanohybrids with potential applications in agronomy. In order to obtain a synergic co-release of plant-beneficial agents, we functionalized with humic substances two inorganic matrixes: hydroxyapatite (Ca₁₀(PO₄)₆(OH)₂, HP) and silica (SiO₂) nanoparticles (NPs). The former is a potential controlled-release fertilizer of P, and the latter has a beneficial effect on soil and plants. SiO2 NPs are obtained from rice husks by a reproducible and fast procedure, but their ability to absorb humic substances is very limited. HP NPs coated with fulvic acid are instead a very promising candidate, based on desorption and dilution studies. The different dissolutions observed for HP NPs coated with fulvic and humic acids could be related to the different interaction mechanisms, as suggested by the FT-IR study.
Advancing personalized medicine for tuberculosis through the application of immune profiling
Authors: Thu Vo Thuy Anh , Dat Ly Da , Jayanti Rannissa Puspita , Trinh Hoang Kim Tu , Hung Tran Minh , Cho Yong-Soon , Long Nguyen Phuoc , Shin Jae-Gook
Published: February 2023

While early and precise diagnosis is the key to eliminating tuberculosis (TB), conventional methods using culture conversion or sputum smear microscopy have failed to meet demand. This is especially true in high-epidemic developing countries and during pandemic-associated social restrictions. Suboptimal biomarkers have restricted the improvement of TB management and eradication strategies. Therefore, the research and development of new affordable and accessible methods are required. Following the emergence of many high-throughput quantification TB studies, immunomics has the advantages of directly targeting responsive immune molecules and significantly simplifying workloads. In particular, immune profiling has been demonstrated to be a versatile tool that potentially unlocks many options for application in TB management. Herein, we review the current approaches for TB control with regard to the potentials and limitations of immunomics. Multiple directions are also proposed to hopefully unleash immunomics’ potential in TB research, not least in revealing representative immune biomarkers to correctly diagnose TB. The immune profiles of patients can be valuable covariates for model-informed precision dosing-based treatment monitoring, prediction of outcome, and the optimal dose prediction of anti-TB drugs.
The molecular phenotype of kisspeptin neurons in the medial amygdala of female mice
Authors: Hatcher Katherine M. , Costanza Leah , Kauffman Alexander S. , Stephens Shannon B. Z.
Published: February 2023

Reproduction is regulated through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, largely via the action of kisspeptin neurons in the hypothalamus. Importantly, Kiss1 neurons have been identified in other brain regions, including the medial amygdala (MeA). Though the MeA is implicated in regulating aspects of both reproductive physiology and behavior, as well as non-reproductive processes, the functional roles of MeA Kiss1 neurons are largely unknown. Additionally, besides their stimulation by estrogen, little is known about how MeA Kiss1 neurons are regulated. Using a RiboTag mouse model in conjunction with RNA-seq, we examined the molecular profile of MeA Kiss1 neurons to identify transcripts that are co-expressed in MeA Kiss1 neurons of female mice and whether these transcripts are modulated by estradiol (E2) treatment. RNA-seq identified >13,800 gene transcripts co-expressed in female MeA Kiss1 neurons, including genes for neuropeptides and receptors implicated in reproduction, metabolism, and other neuroendocrine functions. Of the >13,800 genes co-expressed in MeA Kiss1 neurons, only 45 genes demonstrated significantly different expression levels due to E2 treatment. Gene transcripts such as Kiss1, Gal, and Oxtr increased in response to E2 treatment, while fewer transcripts, such as Esr1 and Cyp26b1, were downregulated by E2. Dual RNAscope and immunohistochemistry was performed to validate co-expression of MeA Kiss1 with Cck and Cartpt. These results are the first to establish a profile of genes actively expressed by MeA Kiss1 neurons, including a subset of genes regulated by E2, which provides a useful foundation for future investigations into the regulation and function of MeA Kiss1 neurons.
The ambulatory transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach is safe and economical for patients with thyroid nodules
Authors: Sun Haiqing , Chu Yongli , Zhang Guojun , Zheng Guibin , Zheng Haitao
Published: February 2023

Background

Ambulatory thyroid surgery has been increasingly performed in recent years. However, the feasibility of the ambulatory transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) has not been evaluated. We aimed to evaluate the safety, economy, and mental health outcomes of ambulatory TOETVA.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of patients who underwent TOETVA between March 2019 and August 2022. The procedure was performed by a skilled surgical team from the Department of Thyroid Surgery of the affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University. Patients were enrolled in the ambulatory (n=166) and conventional (n=290) groups, based on their chosen procedure. We analyzed patients’ clinical characteristics, surgical outcomes, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) scores, and hospitalization costs.

Results

Of 456 patients, 166 underwent ambulatory TOETVA and 290 underwent conventional TOETVA. No significant differences were found in clinical and surgical characteristics between the groups, including sex (P=0.363), age (P=0.077), body mass index (P=0.351), presence of internal diseases (P=0.613), presence of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (P=0.429), pathology (P=0.362), maximum tumor diameter (P=0.520), scope of surgery (P=0.850), or operative time (P=0.351). There were no significant differences in maximum tumor diameter (P=0.349), extrathyroidal tissue invasion (P=0.516), number of retrieved central lymph nodes (P=0.069), or metastatic central lymph nodes (P=0.897) between the groups. No significant differences were found in complications, including transient hypoparathyroidism (P=0.438), transient vocal cord palsy (P=0.876), transient mental nerve injury (P=0.749), permanent mental nerve injury (P=0.926), and other complications (P=1.000). Ambulatory patients had shorter hospital stays (P<0.001) and reduced hospitalization costs (P<0.001). There was no significant difference in HAM-A scores between the groups (P=0.056).

Conclusions

Ambulatory TOETVA is a safe, feasible, and cost-effective procedure for selected patients. This procedure resulted in shorter hospital stays, decreased medical costs, and did not increase patient anxiety. To ensure patient safety, surgical teams must inform patients of the indications, when to seek help, and how to receive the fastest medical attention.
Temporal variability of microbial response to crude oil exposure in the northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Brock Melissa L. , Richardson Rachel , Ederington-Hagy Melissa , Nigro Lisa , Snyder Richard A. , Jeffrey Wade H.
Published: February 2023

Oil spills are common occurrences in the United States and can result in extensive ecological damage. The 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico was the largest accidental spill recorded. Many studies were performed in deep water habitats to understand the microbial response to the released crude oil. However, much less is known about how planktonic coastal communities respond to oil spills and whether that response might vary over the course of the year. Understanding this temporal variability would lend additional insight into how coastal Florida habitats may have responded to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. To assess this, the temporal response of planktonic coastal microbial communities to acute crude oil exposure was examined from September 2015 to September 2016 using seawater samples collected from Pensacola Beach, Florida, at 2-week intervals. A standard oil exposure protocol was performed using water accommodated fractions made from MC252 surrogate oil under photo-oxidizing conditions. Dose response curves for bacterial production and primary production were constructed from 3H-leucine incorporation and 14C-bicarbonate fixation, respectively. To assess drivers of temporal patterns in inhibition, a suite of biological and environmental parameters was measured including bacterial counts, chlorophyll a, temperature, salinity, and nutrients. Additionally, 16S rRNA sequencing was performed on unamended seawater to determine if temporal variation in the in situ bacterial community contributed to differences in inhibition. We observed that there is temporal variation in the inhibition of primary and bacterial production due to acute crude oil exposure. We also identified significant relationships of inhibition with environmental and biological parameters that quantitatively demonstrated that exposure to water-soluble crude oil constituents was most detrimental to planktonic microbial communities when temperature was high, when there were low inputs of total Kjeldahl nitrogen, and when there was low bacterial diversity or low phytoplankton biomass.
A fire spread simulator to support tactical management decisions for Mediterranean landscapes
Authors: Gonzalez-Olabarria Jose Ramon , Carrasco Jaime , Pais Cristobal , Garcia-Gonzalo Jordi , Palacios-Meneses David , Mahaluf-Recasens Rodrigo , Porkhum Olena , Weintraub Andrés
Published: February 2023

The use of fire simulation tools has become a regular feature of support systems for fuel management decisions at landscape level. Considering the spatial nature of fire in the evaluation of risk and the definition of fire mitigation goals is an ongoing research topic in forest management planning. By combining a fire simulation tool, a growth and yield simulator and an optimization module, it is possible to minimize the negative impact of fire over time and maximize the yield of various ecosystem services. Specific requirements for a fire simulator adapted to support tactical forest planning include a level of accuracy, the possibility of exploring diverse fire scenarios, the computational capability to simulate multiple fires and the flexibility to generate different outputs or metrics depending on the specific requirements of the planning problem under study. The present article addresses the requirements of fire simulators for their inclusion on forest tactical planning. The Cell2Fire simulator is adapted for use with fuel models more commonly employed in Europe and the United States, and to simulate the generation and spread of crown fires. Already able to solve static fire mitigation problems in its original version, this new adaptation, known as Cell2Fire_SB, has been developed with the more ambitious goal of being integrated into a decision support system that simultaneously considers fire behavior forest dynamics and allocation of management actions in order to solve temporal dynamic tactical forest problems.
Identification of long non-coding RNA and circular RNA associated networks in cellular stress responses
Authors: Li Xiuzhi , Li Jingxin , Shan Ge , Wang Xiaolin
Published: February 2023

Mammalian cells employ various adaptive responses to cope with multiple stresses to maintain homeostasis. Functional roles of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in response to cellular stresses have been proposed, and systematical investigations about the crosstalk among distinct types of RNAs are required. Here, we challenged HeLa cells with thapsigargin (TG) and glucose deprivation (GD) treatments to induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and metabolic stresses, respectively. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA)-depleted RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was then performed. Characterization of the RNA-seq data revealed a series of differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) with parallel changes responsive to both stimuli. We further constructed the lncRNA/circRNA-mRNA co-expressing network, competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network in the lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA axis, and lncRNA/circRNA-RNA binding protein (RBP) interactome map. These networks indicated the potential cis and/or trans regulatory roles of lncRNAs and circRNAs. Moreover, Gene Ontology analysis demonstrated that these identified ncRNAs were associated with several essential biological processes known to be related to cellular stress responses. In conclusion, we systematically established functional regulatory networks of lncRNA/circRNA-mRNA, lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA and lncRNA/circRNA-RBP to perceive the potential interactions and biological processes during cellular stresses. These results provided insights in ncRNA regulatory networks of stress responses and the basis for further identification of pivotal factors involved in cellular stress responses.
Screening and epitope characterization of diagnostic nanobody against total and activated Bacteroides fragilis toxin
Authors: Guo Yucheng , Ouyang Zhenlin , He Wenbo , Zhang Jiaxin , Qin Qian , Jiao Min , Muyldermans Serge , Zheng Fang , Wen Yurong
Published: February 2023

Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF) can rapidly secrete an enterotoxin termed B. fragilis toxin (BFT), which is thought to be the only recognized virulence factor in ETBF. ETBF can cause acute diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer, and breast cancer. BFT is divided into three subtypes, BFT1, BFT2, and BFT3. BFT1 is the most widely distributed in human B. fragilis isolates. BFT can be used as a biomarker for predicting the inflammation-cancer transformation of intestine and breast. Nanobodies have the advantages of small structure, complete antigen recognition capacity, rapid selection via phage display technology, and can be massively produced in microbial expression systems. Nanobodies have become a powerful tool for medical diagnosis and treatment. This study focuses on screening and structural characterization of nanobodies targeting full length and active BFT. By constructing prokaryotic expression systems to obtain recombinant BFT1 protein, high purity BFT1 protein was used to immunize alpacas. Phage display technology was used to construct a phage display library. The positive clones were selected by bio-panning, and the isothermal titration calorimetry was used to select high-affinity nanobodies. Then the three-dimensional structures of BFT1:Nb2.82 and BFT1:Nb3.27 were solved by crystal X-ray diffraction. We got two kinds of nanobodies, Nb2.82 targeting the BFT1 prodomain and Nb3.27 recognizing the BFT1 catalytic domain. This study provides a new strategy for the early diagnosis of ETBF and the possibility for BFT as a biomarker for diagnosing diseases.
ZBP1 and heatstroke
Authors: Li Fanglin , Deng Jiayi , He Qiuli , Zhong Yanjun
Published: February 2023

Heatstroke, which is associated with circulatory failure and multiple organ dysfunction, is a heat stress-induced life-threatening condition characterized by a raised core body temperature and central nervous system dysfunction. As global warming continues to worsen, heatstroke is expected to become the leading cause of death globally. Despite the severity of this condition, the detailed mechanisms that underlie the pathogenesis of heatstroke still remain largely unknown. Z-DNA-binding protein 1 (ZBP1), also referred to as DNA-dependent activator of IFN-regulatory factors (DAI) and DLM-1, was initially identified as a tumor-associated and interferon (IFN)-inducible protein, but has recently been reported to be a Z-nucleic acid sensor that regulates cell death and inflammation; however, its biological function is not yet fully understood. In the present study, a brief review of the main regulators is presented, in which the Z-nucleic acid sensor ZBP1 was identified to be a significant factor in regulating the pathological characteristics of heatstroke through ZBP1-dependent signaling. Thus, the lethal mechanism of heatstroke is revealed, in addition to a second function of ZBP1 other than as a nucleic acid sensor.
A nostoxanthin-producing bacterium, Sphingomonas nostoxanthinifaciens sp. nov., alleviates the salt stress of Arabidopsis seedlings by scavenging of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Jiang Lingmin , Seo Jiyoon , Peng Yuxin , Jeon Doeun , Lee Ju Huck , Kim Cha Young , Lee Jiyoung
Published: February 2023

A novel, nostoxanthin-producing, endophytic bacterium, designated as AK-PDB1-5T, was isolated from the needle-like leaves of the Korean fir (Abies koreana Wilson) collected from Mt. Halla in Jeju, South Korea. A 16S rRNA sequence comparison indicated that the closest phylogenetic neighbors were Sphingomonas crusticola MIMD3T (95.6%) and Sphingomonas jatrophae S5-249T (95.3%) of the family Sphingomonadaceae. Strain AK-PDB1-5T had a genome size of 4,298,284 bp with a 67.8% G + C content, and digital DNA–DNA hybridization and OrthoANI values with the most closely related species of only 19.5–21% and 75.1–76.8%, respectively. Cells of the strain AK-PDB1-5T were Gram-negative, short rods, oxidase- and catalase-positive. Growth occurred at pH 5.0–9.0 (optimum pH 8.0) in the absence of NaCl at 4–37°C (optimum 25–30°C). Strain AK-PDB1-5T contained C14:0 2OH, C16:0 and summed feature 8 as the major cellular fatty acids (> 10%), while sphingoglycolipid, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phospholipids and lipids were found to be the major polar lipids. The strain produces a yellow carotenoid pigment; natural products prediction via AntiSMASH tool found zeaxanthin biosynthesis clusters in the entire genome. Biophysical characterization by ultraviolet–visible absorption spectroscopy and ESI-MS studies confirmed the yellow pigment was nostoxanthin. In addition, strain AK-PDB1-5T was found significantly promote Arabidopsis seedling growth under salt conditions by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS). Based on the polyphasic taxonomic analysis results, strain AK-PDB1-5T was determined to be a novel species in the genus Sphingomonas with the proposed name Sphingomonas nostoxanthinifaciens sp. nov. The type strain is AK-PDB1-5T (= KCTC 82822T = CCTCC AB 2021150T).
Combined analysis of chromatin accessibility and gene expression profiles provide insight into Fucoxanthin biosynthesis in Isochrysis galbana under green light
Authors: Chen Duo , Li Huan , Chen Jing , Han Yuying , Zheng Xuehai , Xiao Yixin , Chen Xupeng , Chen Tao , Chen Jiannan , Chen Youqiang , Xue Ting
Published: February 2023

Isochrysis galbana, as a potential accumulator of fucoxanthin, has become a valuable material to develop functional foods for humans. Our previous research revealed that green light effectively promotes the accumulation of fucoxanthin in I. galbana, but there is little research on chromatin accessibility in the process of transcriptional regulation. This study was conducted to reveal the mechanism of fucoxanthin biosynthesis in I. galbana under green light by analyzing promoter accessibility and gene expression profiles. Differentially accessible chromatin regions (DARs)-associated genes were enriched in carotenoid biosynthesis and photosynthesis-antenna protein formation, including IgLHCA1, IgLHCA4, IgPDS, IgZ-ISO, IglcyB, IgZEP, and IgVDE. The motifs for the MYB family were also identified as candidates controlling metabolic regulation responses to green light culture of I. galbana, including IgMYB1, IgMYB2, IgMYB33, IgMYB42, IgMYB98, IgMYB118, and IgMYB119. The results of differential expression analysis and WGCNA showed that several genes or transcription factors (TFs) related to carotenoid metabolism and photosynthesis exhibited a higher expression level and were significantly upregulated in A-G5d compared with A-0d and A-W5d, including IgMYB98, IgLHCA1, IgLHCX2, IgLHCB4, and IgLHCB5. This suggests that upregulation of these genes by green light may be the key factor leading to fucoxanthin accumulation by regulating the photosynthesis-antenna protein pathway. An integrated analysis of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq showed that 3 (IgphoA, IgPKN1, IgOTC) of 34 DARs-associated genes displayed obvious changes in their chromatin regions in ATAC-seq data, suggesting that these genes specific for green light may play a key role in fucoxanthin biosynthesis in I. galbana through a complex regulatory network of multiple metabolic pathways interacting with each other. These findings will facilitate in-depth understanding the molecular regulation mechanisms of fucoxanthin in I. galbana and its role in response to green light regulation, providing technical support for the construction of high fucoxanthin content strains.
Nitrogen cycling activities during decreased stratification in the coastal oxygen minimum zone off Namibia
Authors: Vuillemin Aurèle
Published: February 2023

Productive oxygen minimum zones are regions dominated by heterotrophic denitrification fueled by sinking organic matter. Microbial redox-sensitive transformations therein result in the loss and overall geochemical deficit in inorganic fixed nitrogen in the water column, thereby impacting global climate in terms of nutrient equilibrium and greenhouse gases. Here, geochemical data are combined with metagenomes, metatranscriptomes, and stable-isotope probing incubations from the water column and subseafloor of the Benguela upwelling system. The taxonomic composition of 16S rRNA genes and relative expression of functional marker genes are used to explore metabolic activities by nitrifiers and denitrifiers under decreased stratification and increased lateral ventilation in Namibian coastal waters. Active planktonic nitrifiers were affiliated with Candidatus Nitrosopumilus and Candidatus Nitrosopelagicus among Archaea, and Nitrospina, Nitrosomonas, Nitrosococcus, and Nitrospira among Bacteria. Concurrent evidence from taxonomic and functional marker genes shows that populations of Nitrososphaeria and Nitrospinota were highly active under dysoxic conditions, coupling ammonia and nitrite oxidation with respiratory nitrite reduction, but minor metabolic activity toward mixotrophic use of simple nitrogen compounds. Although active reduction of nitric oxide to nitrous oxide by Nitrospirota, Gammaproteobacteria, and Desulfobacterota was tractable in bottom waters, the produced nitrous oxide was apparently scavenged at the ocean surface by Bacteroidota. Planctomycetota involved in anaerobic ammonia oxidation were identified in dysoxic waters and their underlying sediments, but were not found to be metabolically active due to limited availability of nitrite. Consistent with water column geochemical profiles, metatranscriptomic data demonstrate that nitrifier denitrification is fueled by fixed and organic nitrogen dissolved in dysoxic waters, and prevails over canonical denitrification and anaerobic oxidation of ammonia when the Namibian coastal waters and sediment–water interface on the shelf are ventilated by lateral currents during austral winter.