bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Value Added Intellectual Capital Terhadap Kinerja Keuangan BUMN20 Tahun 2019-2020
Authors: Thalia Thalia , Hutabarat Francis
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research is to find out the impact of company’s value added intellectual capital from 2019-2020. This research used quantitative approach, which using numeral data and descriptive statistics. The sample of this research utilizes “BUMN20 - company’s index” that reported financial statement from 2019-2020 and It has a positive outcome in terms of the profit. The result of this research will be tested whether it is significant or not. When the ‘f’ value is below its confidence level (5%) we can conclude that Value Added Human Capital (VAHU), Structural Capital Value (STVA), and Value Added Capital Employed (VACA) has a significant effect towards financial performance of BUMN20 firm. Partially, this research found out the significant test of ‘t’ VACA is 0.006 which there is a significant relationship between VACA and financial performance of BUMN20 firm. On the contrary, this research  shows that the variables of VAHU and STVA have no significant impact between VAHU and financial performanxe and the same way about the relationship between STVA and financial performance of BUMN20.

Keywords: Financial Performance, Structural Capital Value, Value-Added Intellectual Capital, Value-Added Capital Employed, Value-Added Human Capital.

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh value added intellectual capital perusahaan bumn pada tahun pengamatan 2019-2020. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dimana penelitian ini menggunakan data berbentuk angka serta merupakan suatu penelitian statistik deskriptif. Sampel penelitian menggunakan perusahaan index BUMN20 yang menerbitkan laporan keuangan 2 tahun berturut-turut dalam 2019-2020 dan memiliki laba bersih positif selama periode pengamatan. Hasil penleitian ini menunjukan bahwa secara simultan nilai dari signifikansi uji f sebesar 0.046 < 0.05 yang berarti value added human capital (VAHU), structural capital value added (STVA), dan value added capital employed (VACA) berpengaruh secara signifikan terhadap kinerja keuangan perusahaan BUMN20. Secara parsial didapati bahwa nilai signifikan uji t VACA 0.006 yang berarti adanya pengaruh signifikan antara VACA dengan kinerja keuangan pada perusahaan BUMN20. Sebaliknya, penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa untuk variabel VAHU dan STVA didapati bahwa tidak ada pengaruh signifikan antara VAHU dengan kinerja keuangan dan juga STVA dengan kinerja keuangan perusahaan BUMN20.

Kata kunci: Kinerja Keuangan, Structural Capital Value Value-Added Intellectual Capital, Value-Added Capital Employed,,Value-Added Human Capital.
ANALISIS STRATEGI PROMOSI WORD OF MOUTH (WOM) DI CAFE FAMILY JERMAL MEDAN
Authors: Agustini Fauzia , Puddin Khafi , Siahaan Sabda Dian Nurani
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine whether consumers at Cafe family Jermal know about cafes based on Word of Mouth, the level of effectiveness of WOM that has been carried out so far at cafes and the factors that can affect WOM at cafe family jermal. The sample in this study amounted to 60 respondents. This research is quantitative descriptive. Data were collected through interviews, observations, questionnaires and literature study. The data analysis technique is descriptive using the SPSS program. The results showed that all respondents stated that they received information about the cafe family Jermal from people they knew. The increase in sales levels and the increase in the number of consumers at the cafe family Jermal indicate that the word of mouth promotion strategy has been running effectively. Consumers who have come to the cafe convey to people they know information about the cafe. This shows that the success of word of mouth is closely related to consumer satisfaction. Factors that affect word of mouth at the cafe family jermal are related to information about this cafe such as food and drinks (taste, price, type, and packaging), location (area of parking, location is not far), service (waiting time, hospitality of cafe waiters, responsiveness), cafe conditions (tidy, clean and comfortable).

Keywords: Promotion Strategy, WOM, Cafe Family Jermal

 

Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui apakah konsumen di Cafe family Jermal mengetahui tentang cafe berdasarkan Word of Mouth, tingkat keefektivan WOM yang telah dilakukan selama ini di cafe dan faktor-faktor yang dapat mempengaruhi wom di cafe familyJermal. Sampel pada penelitian ini berjumlah 60 responden. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif kuantitatif. Data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara, observasi, penyebaran angket dan studi kepustakaan. Teknik analisis data adalah deskriptif menggunakan program SPSS. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan semua responden menyatakan bahwa mereka mendapat informasi tentang cafe family jermal dari orang yang mereka kenal, Kenaikan tingkat penjualan dan bertambahnya jumlah konsumen di cafe family jermal menunjukkan bahwa strategi promosi word of mouth telah berjalan secara efektif. Konsumen yang pernah datang ke cafe menyampaikan kepada orang yang mereka kenal informasi tentang cafe. Ini menunjukkan bahwa keberhasilan word of mouth sangat erat kaitannya dengan kepuasan konsumen, Factor-faktor yang mempengaruhi word of mouth di cafe family jermal berhubungan dengan informasi tentang cafe ini seperti makanan dan minuman (rasa, harga, jenis, dan kemasan), lokasi (area parkir, lokasi tidak jauh), pelayanan (waktu menunggu, keramah tamahan pelayan cafe, cepat tanggap), kondisi cafe (rapi, bersih dan nyaman).

Kata kunci: Strategi Promosi, WOM, Cafe Family Jermal
PERBANDINGAN MODEL ALTMAN, SPRINGATE, DAN ZMIJEWSKI SEKTOR MANUFAKTUR INDONESIA
Authors: Ngangi Gloria , Soewignyo Fanny
Published: July 2023

This study was conducted to evaluate the level of financial distress or bankruptcy of the manufacturing sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange and to find the most accurate predictive model in predicting financial difficulties and bankruptcy. Researchers used 2015 data to measure the level of bankruptcy and then compared it to net profit (loss) in 2016-2019 to validate the accuracy of predictions. The three prediction models being compared were Altman Z-score, Springate, and Zmijewski. The results showed that the highest level of accuracy was the Altman Z-score model, the second was Springate, and the third was Zmijewski. The Altman model in this study showed that the most appropriate predictions were for the third year (2018) and fourth year (2019) with the highest level of accuracy (76.88%) compared to the second and first year. It is recommended for investors, creditors, and management of manufacturing sector companies to use the Altman Z-score prediction model in evaluating the probability of company bankruptcy in the third or fourth year from the prediction year.

Keywords: Altman Z-score, comparative analysis, manufacturing sector, Springate model, Zmijewski model

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengevaluasi tingkat kesulitan keuangan atau kebangkrutan sektor manufaktur yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia dan untuk menemukan model prediksi yang paling akurat dalam memprediksi kesulitan keuangan dan kebangkrutan. Peneliti menggunakan data tahun 2015 untuk mengukur tingkat kebangkrutan kemudian dibandingkan dengan laba (rugi) bersih pada tahun 2016-2019 untuk validasi keakuratan prediksi. Tiga model prediksi yang dibandingkan adalah Altman Z-score, Springate, dan Zmijewski. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tingkat keakuratan tertinggi diperoleh dengan menggunakan model Altman Z-score, kedua adalah Springate, dan ketiga Zmijewski. Model Altman pada penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa prediksi yang paling tepat dilakukan adalah untuk tahun ketiga (2018) dan keempat (2019) dengan tingkat keakuratan tertinggi (76.88%) dibandingkan dengan tahun kedua dan pertama. Disarankan bagi investor, kreditor, maupun manajemen perusahaan sektor manufaktur untuk dapat menggunakan model prediksi Altman Z-score dalam mengevaluasi kemungkinan kebangkrutan perusahaan di tahun ketiga atau keempat dari tahun prediksi.

Kata kunci: analisis komparatif, model Altman Z-score, model Springate, model zmijewski, sektor manufaktur
PENGARUH PENGALAMAN KERJA TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PADA KULINER BANDUNG BARAT
Authors: Grisang Rivo Perenji , Waty Lenita
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine the performance of employees in the West Bandung Culinary environment, as well as previous work experience. West Bandung Culinary is the place of research for this research. The research method used is descriptive/quantitative analysis, meaning that the research only focuses on disclosing an existing problem and trying to find a solution to that problem. Slovin-based sampling. This study uses observation, interviews, and questionnaires for data collection. Information was collected from 35 respondents to the questionnaire. analyzed with the help of SPSS 21 and Microsoft Excel 2013 for testing normality, partial (T), and the coefficient of determination. The research findings are as follows: The results of the simple regression test show that there is a positive and significant effect of work experience on performance, with a correlation coefficient of 0.458 and a coefficient of determination of 0.21. In addition, the regression equation KK=39.00+0.41 PK, and the significance level T with a value of 0.006. West Bandung culinary is influenced by this work experience.

Keywords: employee performance, work experience

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui kinerja pegawai di lingkungan Kuliner Bandung Barat serta pengalaman kerja sebelumnya. Kuliner Bandung Barat menjadi tempat penelitian untuk penelitian ini. Bahasan penelitian menggunakan metode analisis deskriptif dan kuantitatif, dimana fokusnya hanya pada penyelesaian suatu masalah yang sudah ada dan berusaha mencari solusi dari masalah tersebut. Pengambilan sampel berbasis Slovin. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode observasi, wawancara, dan kuesioner untuk pengumpulan data. Informasi dikumpulkan dari 35 responden untuk kuesioner. dianalisis dengan bantuan SPSS 21 dan Microsoft Excel 2013 untuk pengujian normalitas, parsial (T), dan koefisien determinasi. Temuan penelitian adalah sebagai berikut: Hasil uji regresi sederhana menunjukkan adanya pengaruh positif dan signifikan pengalaman kerja terhadap kinerja, dengan koefisien korelasi sebesar 0,458 dan koefisien determinasi sebesar 0,21. Selain itu, persamaan regresi KK = 39,00 + 0,41 PK, dan tingkat signifikansi T dengan nilai 0,006. Kuliner Bandung Barat dipengaruhi oleh pengalaman kerja tersebut.

Kata Kunci: kinerja karyawan, pengalaman kerja
Future of Bioprinting in Healthcare: A Review
Authors: Das Samir , Datta Sudipto , Barman Anamika
Published: July 2023

Tissue damage and degeneration are common pathological phenomena in higher organisms, specifically in mammalians. However, the traditional method of organ transplantation is a gold standard treatment option for life-saving, dependent upon a donor’s availability. The scarcity of organ donors and the risk of graft rejection is mainly associated with adverse immune responses. Additive manufacturing, such as bioprinting, is one of the most advanced and state-of-the-art techniques that are being utilized for generating tissue engineering construct and in-vitro disease models. Three-dimensional bioprinting associate in creation of extracellular matrix (ECM), such as microenvironments for cells and computer-aided design (CAD) modification of planned tissue morphology. Herein, formulation of suitable bio-ink composition with optimized gelation kinetics for in-situ immobilization of cells with high cell viability is the utmost priority for bio-fabrication. This review elaborates on the most current opportunities and prospects for efficiently implementing bioprinting to restructure medical and technological practices and their applications in the healthcare industry.
Populismo en Europa: una respuesta democrática iliberal al liberalismo antidemocrático
Authors: Mudde Cas
Published: July 2023

In this lecture, I lay out my approach to populism, which falls within the now dominant ‘ideational approach’ of populism, discuss the complex relationship between populism and politics, and identify some of the main causes of the ongoing ‘populist Zeitgeist’. My main arguments are, first, while populism is related to (real and perceived) ‘crises’, these so-called ‘crises’ are often catalysts rather than prime causes of the rise of populism; second, populism is essentially an illiberal democratic response to undemocratic liberalism; and third, populism can only be overcome by more rather than less liberal democracy. I illustrate my arguments on the basis of the recent rise of populism in Europe, but believe they also largely hold true beyond that specific regional and temporal context.

En esta conferencia, expongo mi enfoque sobre populismo, que se inscribe en el "enfoque ideacional" hoy dominante; discuto la compleja relación entre populismo y política, e identifico algunas de las principales causas del actual “populist Zeitgeist”. Mis principales argumentos son los siguientes: primero, aunque el populismo está relacionado con "crisis" (reales y percibidas), estas supuestas "crisis" son a menudo catalizadores más que causas principales del auge del populismo; segundo, el populismo es esencialmente una respuesta democrática no liberal al liberalismo no democrático; y tercero, el populismo sólo puede superarse con más democracia liberal y no con menos. Ilustro mis argumentos basándome en el reciente auge del populismo en Europa, pero creo que también son válidos en gran medida más allá de ese contexto regional y temporal específico.
Assessment of quality of life in patients with schizophrenia and their caregivers in selected Central and Eastern European countries: A literature review
Authors: Szkultecka-Dębek Monika , Walczak Jacek , Augustyńska Joanna , Miernik Katarzyna , Stelmachowski Jarosław , Pieniążek Izabela , Obrzut Grzegorz , Pogroszewska Angelika , Paulic Gabrijela , Maric Damir , Antolic Sinisa , Pecenak Jan , Tavčar Rok , Indrikson Andra , Aadamsoo Kaire , Jankovic Slobodan , Pulay Atilla J. , Rimay Jozsef , Varga Marton , Sulkova Ivana , Verzun Petra
Published: July 2023

Background: To investigate the impact of schizophrenia on quality of life (QoL) of patients and caregivers in seven CEE countries, by conducting a literature search. Methods: Search was performed in publicly available databases to identify publications from 1995 to 2012 related to schizophrenia and QoL. Publications included those describing health-related QoL data of negative symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Results: Out of an initial search of 2882 abstracts, 1587 were excluded based on duplication or preliminary screening of titles, and a further 1550 publications were excluded based on screening of the abstracts (1510) or full-texts (40). Thus, 37 primary publications related to QoL of patients with schizophrenia and caregivers were identified. Due to differences observed in the identified studies, it was not possible to make direct comparisons nor to pool data for analysis. However, it was consistently reported that schizophrenia greatly affected the QoL of patients and had a significant negative impact on the QoL of caregivers, such that their QoL was considered similar to the patients themselves. In addition, patients with schizophrenia experienced significant stigmatization and discrimination. In general, the presence of negative symptoms was not well-documented in the literature and available antipsychotics had limited impact on the treatment of negative symptoms. Conclusion: Schizophrenia significantly reduces QoL of patients and their caregivers. Further research is needed to better understand the drivers of impaired QoL caused by schizophrenia, in particular the negative symptoms of schizophrenia, and how best the burden of illness and associated stigmatization and discrimination may be reduced.
Early root phenotyping in sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.) uncovers insights into root system architecture variability
Authors: Duque Luis O.
Published: July 2023

Background

We developed a novel, non-destructive, expandable, ebb and flow soilless phenotyping system to deliver a capable way to study early root system architectural traits in stem-derived adventitious roots of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.). The platform was designed to accommodate up to 12 stems in a relatively small area for root screening. This platform was designed with inexpensive materials and equipped with an automatic watering system.

Methods

To test this platform, we designed a screening experiment for root traits using two contrasting sweetpotato genotypes, ‘Covington’ and ‘NC10-275’. We monitored and imaged root growth, architecture, and branching patterns every five days up to 20 days.

Results

We observed significant differences in both architectural and morphological root traits for both genotypes tested. After 10 days, root length, surface root area, and root volume were higher in ‘NC10-275’ compared to ‘Covington’. However, average root diameter and root branching density were higher in ‘Covington’.

Conclusion

These results validated the effective and efficient use of this novel root phenotyping platforming for screening root traits in early stem-derived adventitious roots. This platform allowed for monitoring and 2D imaging of root growth over time with minimal disturbance and no destructive root sampling. This platform can be easily tailored for abiotic stress experiments, and permit root growth mapping and temporal and dynamic root measurements of primary and secondary adventitious roots. This phenotyping platform can be a suitable tool for examining root system architecture and traits of clonally propagated material for a large set of replicates in a relatively small space.
Fish-Based Aqua-Tourism Centre for Development of Economical, Environmental and Cultural Security- A Case Study at Jasingfaa Aqua-Tourism Centre, Nagaon, Assam, India
Authors: Das Kulen Chandra , Gogoi Naba , Das Partha , Sarma Debajit
Published: July 2023

Recreational or sports fishing is one of the most popular leisure activities which can also be termed fishing for pleasure or competition. It is regarded as one of the leading adventure tourism activities across the world. The most common form of recreational fishing is angling which generates sizeable income for the people where the angling takes place. The angling may take place in both natural and man-made water bodies. Going by the recent trends, recreational fishing is being considered an intrinsic part of eco-tourism which involves exploring scenic locations and experiencing the local cuisine, culture and heritage. Besides providing an opportunity to create income-generating activities, recreational fishing also contributes to conserving natural resources. Looking into the vast and varied fishery resources, Assam has the probability to promote aqua tourism activities as an alternative to adventure and wildlife tourism. This paper, thus, tries to explore and presents a case of a pioneer aqua tourism centre, i.e., Jasingfaa Aqua Tourism Centre, located in the central Assam district of Nagaon, Assam. Angling is a regular sports activity in the centre. Besides regular angling, the centre organises a Fish Festival consisting of an angling competition and other activities once a year following the ‘catch and release’ rule. The PRA tools like interviews and direct observation methods were administered to carry out the study. Jasingfaa is found to have evolved as a successful model of aqua tourism which generates a large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities besides contributing immensely towards nature conservation.
Farmers’ Purchasing Behaviour of Insecticides in Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) and Problems Faced by Farmers for Cumin in Dhrol Taluka of Jamnagar District, Gujarat, India
Authors: Vasoya Raj R. , Vahoniya Dilip R. , Rajwadi Alvira
Published: July 2023

Background: In agriculture, the use of pesticide has been the dominant form of pest management since the early 1950s to control pest organisms including insects, fungi, weeds and nematodes. In recent times, use of pesticides in cumin cultivation has increased rapidly and this scenario contributes significant impact towards adverse effects on human health, environment and on overall bio-diversity as the cumin crop is among the major growing spices crop in India [1].

Methods: The data collection involved the use of a semi-structured schedule carried out through personal interview method for both cumin farmers and agri-input dealers. The research involved non-prabability sampling technique for primary data collection. The study was conducted in the area of Dhrol taluka of Jamnagar district. The collected data were analysed using various analytical methods, including tabular analysis, Pearson Chi-square test, Garrett's Ranking Technique, and Weighted Average Mean.

Finding: The findings indicate that the majority of respondents were middle-aged with a primary level of education. Most of the farmers had land holdings ranging from 1 to 2.5 hectares, and among them, the area dedicated to cumin cultivation was less than 1 hectare. These farmers had an average farming experience of 21 to 30 years. The majority of farmers primarily relied on farming as their occupation, with some also engaging in animal husbandry. In terms of annual income, most farmers earned between 1 to 5 lakh rupees. The study revealed that Price was the primary factor influencing the purchase of pesticides, followed by considerations of Quality and Brand name. Lack of access to credit facilities was identified as the major problem faced by farmers, alongside the high cost of inputs. Among the promotional activities, Demonstration was found to be the most influential in pesticide purchasing decisions, followed by Farmer meetings. For agri-input dealers, the major problems encountered were Low margins, Raising costs, and High competition.
Negative Appendectomy Rates -Current Prospective- A Review
Authors: Kumar H. R. , Soma M.
Published: July 2023

The negative appendectomy rate is generally accepted in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis to prevent complications like perforation. This rate varies according to countries in western and eastern regions of the world. Clinical scoring systems, inflammatory markers and imaging have been used to reduce the negative appendectomy rate. The introduction of computerized tomography has improved the diagnostic accuracy of acute appendicitis. As this rate has been progressively decreasing over the past few years, a review article was done to look at the role of scoring systems, inflammatory markers, and imaging in diagnosing acute appendicitis and hence reduce the negative appendectomy rate.
Impact of TNAU-Water Soluble Fertilizers (TNAU-WSF) on Soil Nutrient Availability, Nutrient Content and Bulb Quality of Small Onion (Allium cepa var. aggregatum)
Authors: Vairavan C. , Thiyageshwari S. , Malarvizhi P. , Saraswathi T. , Teli K. G. , Pugazenthi K.
Published: July 2023

Application of highly sustainable and productive inputs is required to increase food production in order to feed the growing world population while using the same amount of land. Thus, in its very first attempt, the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, has produced water soluble fertilisers (WSF) named as TNAU-Water Soluble Fertilizers (TNAU-WSF), and it is necessary to optimise on various crops. One of the most essential vegetables in Indian cuisine is the small onion, which has a high demand but a low productivity. The use of TNAU-WSF was initiated to improve small onion crop productivity and quality. Eight treatments were incorporated in a field experiment that was set up using a Randomised Block Design (RBD), including soil test-based applications (STB) of 75%, 100%, and 125% NPK ha-1 as TNAU-WSF, with and without sulphur (S) and TNAU liquid multi micronutrient (TNAU LMM) and the absolute control. With small onion (CO 4), each treatment was replicated three times. Soil test based application at higher nutrient level (125% NPK) recorded higher nutrient availability, plant nutrient content and enhanced bulb quality (crude protein and total sugars) of small onion. The correlation study revealed that treatments with higher nutrient availability had a high impact on nutrient content and bulb quality of small onion.
The Use of Machine Learning in Oil Well Petrophysics and Original Oil in Place Estimation: A Systematic Literature Review Approach
Authors: Johnson Ekemini , Obot Okure , Attai Kingsley , Akpabio Julius , Inyang Udoinyang
Published: July 2023

Machine learning is a form of artificial intelligence that is applicable in all fields of study. It incorporates many algorithms used in carrying out various tasks such as classification, predictions, estimations, comparisons, approximations, optimization and selections. In estimating original oil in place, which affords the explorationist the foresight on the total amount of crude oil that is potentially in reservoir. Machine learning is found to perform reserves estimation with speed                 and accuracy where insufficient data are available. These among other attributes of Machine Learning motivated a systematic literature review of studies undertaken between 2010 and 2021 and explore the strengths and limitations reported in the studies. In the oil industry, different                     types of data are gathered from subsurface and surface in order to know the reservoir hydrocarbon potential. Sensorsare known to be able to collect these data in large quantity, analyse and                 used to predict the output.3127 articles related to the study were collated from 4 databases and after a series of inclusion and exclusion criteria were conducted on the articles, 104 journal articles met the criteria and were used for the review. Results of the study reveal that between the years under review, 2019 had the greatest number of articles (20 of the 104) pertaining to the topic reviewed. 61% of authors reported inadequate data while 39 % reported under-performance of              the algorithm. It was also revealed that machine learning was applied to perform predictions/forecasting in the industry than it was used to solve other problems, while Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was the most used artificial intelligence technique. The study opens another vista of knowledge for researchers to navigate machine learning in the estimation of original oil in place and petrophysics analysis. This emerging technology is smart and makes data evaluation easy and straightforward.
Simulation and Optimization of Bio-Methanol Production from Steam Gasification of Sugarcane Bagasse Using Aspen Plus
Authors: Ainerua Emmanuela O. , Ossai Blessing J. , Oboh Innocent O.
Published: July 2023

The detrimental environmental impacts of fossil fuels are increasing due to the growing global energy consumption. Thus, energy recovery from waste materials will inevitably become the dominant option in the future with population growth and the reduction in fossil resources. A model for the production of Bio-methanol was developed using Aspen Plus and design of experiment and optimization were carried out using Design Expert software. Factors selected for the design of experiment were the gasification temperature, gasification pressure and steam / biomass ratio with their values ranging from 500 – 800oC, 1 - 3 bar and 0.5 - 2.5 respectively. The effects of interaction between the variables and the response were studied using the Box-Behnken design. The developed model was validated using the yield of bio-methanol from experimental data in literature. The model gave bio-methanol yield as 4.54% while the bio-methanol yield from experimental data obtained was 5.93%. The results from Response surface methodology (RSM) gave the quadratic model as best fit for the production of bio-methanol. The coefficient of determination for bio-methanol yield was found to be 0.9435. The optimum gasification conditions were found to be; temperature of 800oC, pressure of 1 bar and steam / feed ratio of 0.5 and these gave rise to the maximum bio-methanol yield of 86.32%. High temperature, low gasification agent (steam/feed ratio) and low pressure favours optimum bio-methanol yield.
Can Elementary Particles have Excited States
Authors: Vasiliev Boris V.
Published: July 2023

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Self-Help Habit Replacement in Individuals With Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors
Authors: Moritz Steffen , Penney Danielle , Missmann Franziska , Weidinger Sarah , Schmotz Stella
Published: July 2023

Importance

Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs; eg, skin picking) encompass a set of conditions at the interface of dermatology and psychiatry/psychology. The disorder is prevalent but currently underdiagnosed and undertreated.

Objective

To compare a new self-help intervention, habit replacement, against a wait-list control condition for the treatment of BFRBs.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized clinical trial was conducted online in 2022. Participants were a population-based nonclinical sample with BFRBs and were recruited via social media. Initially, 481 individuals entered the assessment; 213 were excluded blind to results. A final sample of 268 participants were randomized. The intervention period was 6 weeks.

Interventions

Participants were randomized to a self-help intervention, habit replacement, or a wait-list control condition (each n = 134).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The Generic BFRB Scale-45 (GBS-45, self-report) represented the primary outcome.

Results

Individuals in the 2 conditions (n = 268; 241 [89.9%] women; mean [SD] age, 36.8 [11.1] years; skin picking, 68.3%; trichotillomania, 28.4%; nail biting, 36.6%; lip-cheek biting, 26.1%; other, 20.1%) did not differ on any baseline characteristics. The experimental group significantly improved on the primary outcome (GBS-45) for both the per-protocol (technique was used at least once weekly, ηp2 = 0.068, P = .001) and the intention-to-treat analyses relative to the wait-list control group (expectation–maximization algorithm; ηp2 = 0.019, P = .02). The interaction of group and time yielded statistical trends in favor of the experimental condition only on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and quality of life. For the Clinical Global Impressions scale, more individuals in the habit replacement group reported improvement (52.8% vs 19.6%; P < .001). User satisfaction in the habit replacement group was high. Moderation analyses that included all baseline variables showed that those who exhibited nail biting particularly benefited from the new technique.

Conclusions and Relevance

The present proof-of-concept randomized clinical trial tentatively demonstrates that habit replacement is a feasible and effective self-help strategy against BFRBs, especially for nail biting. Study limitations include the lack of external assessment and verified diagnoses. In addition, the study is missing follow-up data. Self-help habit replacement shows promise in reducing BFRBs but not concomitant symptoms.

Trial Registration

German Clinical Trials Register Identifier: DRKS00030511
Intersectional Prevalence of Suicide Ideation, Plan, and Attempt Based on Gender, Sexual Orientation, Race and Ethnicity, and Rurality
Authors: Forrest Lauren N. , Beccia Ariel L. , Exten Cara , Gehman Sarah , Ansell Emily B.
Published: July 2023

Importance

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) are major public health problems, and some social groups experience disproportionate STB burden. Studies assessing STB inequities for single identities (eg, gender or sexual orientation) cannot evaluate intersectional differences and do not reflect that the causes of inequities are due to structural-level (vs individual-level) processes.

Objective

To examine differences in STB prevalence at the intersection of gender, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and rurality.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used adult data from the 2015-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a population-based sample of noninstitutionalized US civilians. Data were analyzed from July 2022 to March 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes included past-year suicide ideation, plan, and attempt, each assessed with a single question developed for the NSDUH. Intersectional multilevel analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (MAIHDA) models were estimated, in which participants were nested within social strata defined by all combinations of gender, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and rurality; outcome prevalence estimates were obtained for each social stratum. Social strata were conceptualized as proxies for exposure to structural forms of discrimination that contribute to health advantages or disadvantages (eg, sexism, racism).

Results

The analytic sample included 189 800 adults, of whom 46.5% were men; 53.5%, women; 4.8%, bisexual; 93.0%, heterosexual; 2.2%, lesbian or gay; 18.8%, Hispanic; 13.9%, non-Hispanic Black; and 67.2%, non-Hispanic White. A total of 44.6% were from large metropolitan counties; 35.5%, small metropolitan counties; and 19.9%, nonmetropolitan counties. There was a complex social patterning of STB prevalence that varied across social strata and was indicative of a disproportionate STB burden among multiply marginalized participants. Specifically, the highest estimated STB prevalence was observed among Hispanic (suicide ideation: 18.1%; 95% credible interval [CrI], 13.5%-24.3%) and non-Hispanic Black (suicide plan: 7.9% [95% CrI, 4.5%-12.1%]; suicide attempt: 3.3% [95% CrI, 1.4%-6.2%]) bisexual women in nonmetropolitan counties.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, intersectional exploratory analyses revealed that STB prevalence was highest among social strata including multiply marginalized individuals (eg, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black bisexual women) residing in more rural counties. The findings suggest that considering and intervening in both individual-level (eg, psychiatric disorders) and structural-level (eg, structural discrimination) processes may enhance suicide prevention and equity efforts.
Feasibility evaluation of novel AI‐based deep‐learning contouring algorithm for radiotherapy
Authors: Maduro Bustos Luis A. , Sarkar Abhirup , Doyle Laura A. , Andreou Kelly , Noonan Jodie , Nurbagandova Diana , Shah SunJay A. , Irabor Omoruyi Credit , Mourtada Firas
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical feasibility of the Siemens Healthineers AI‐Rad Companion Organs RT VA30A (Organs‐RT) auto‐contouring algorithm for organs at risk (OARs) of the pelvis, thorax, and head and neck (H&N).

Methods

Computed tomography (CT) datasets from 30 patients (10 pelvis, 10 thorax, and 10 H&N) were collected. Four sets of OARs were generated on each scan, one set by Organs‐RT and the others by three experienced users independently. A physician (expert) then evaluated each contour by assigning a score from the following scale: 1‐Must Redo, 2‐Major Edits, 3‐Minor Edits, 4‐Clinically usable. Using the highest‐scored OAR from the human users as a reference, the contours generated by Organs‐RT were evaluated via Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), Hausdorff Distance (HDD), Mean Distance to Agreement (mDTA), Volume comparison, and visual inspection. Additionally, each human user recorded the time to delineate each structure set and time‐saving efficiency was measured.

Results

The average DSC obtained for the pelvic OARs ranged between (0.81 ± 0.06)Rectum and (0.94 ± 0.03)Bladder. (0.75 ± 0.09)Esophagus to for the thoracic OARs and (0.66 ± 0.07)Lips to (0.83 ± 0.04)Brainstem for the H&N. The average HDD in cm for the pelvis cohort ranged between (0.95 ± 0.35)Bladder to (3.62 ± 2.50)Rectum, (0.42 ± 0.06)SpinalCord to (2.09 ± 2.00)Esophagus for the thoracic set and to (1.50 ± 0.50)Mandible for the H&N region. The time‐saving efficiency was 67% for H&N, 83% for pelvis, and 84% for thorax. 72.5%, 82%, and 50% of the pelvis, thorax, and H&N OARs were scored as clinically usable by the expert, respectively.

Conclusions

The highest agreement registered between OARs generated by Organs‐RT and their respective references was for the bladder, heart, lungs, and femoral heads, with an overall DSC≥0.92. The poorest agreement was for the rectum, esophagus, and lips, with an overall DSC⩽0.81. Nonetheless, Organs‐RT serves as a reliable auto‐contouring tool by minimizing overall contouring time and increasing time‐saving efficiency in radiotherapy treatment planning.
Organic‐Platinum Hybrids for Covalent Binding of G‐Quadruplexes: Structural Basis and Application to Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Liu‐Yi , Ma Tian‐Zhu , Zeng You‐Liang , Liu Wenting , Zhang Hang , Mao Zong‐Wan
Published: July 2023

G‐quadruplexes (G4s) have been revived as promising therapeutic targets with the development of immunotherapy, but the G4‐mediated immune response remains unclear. We designed a novel class of G4‐binding organic‐platinum hybrids, L1‐cispt and L1‐transpt, with spatial matching for G4 binding and G4 DNA reactivity for binding site locking. The solution structure of L1‐transpt‐MYT1L G4 demonstrated the effectiveness of the covalent binding and revealed the covalent binding‐guided dynamic balance, accompanied by the destruction of the A5‐T17 base pairs to achieve the covalent binding of the platinum unit to N7 of the G6 residue. Furthermore, L1‐cispt‐ and L1‐transpt‐mediated genomic dysfunction could activate the retinoic acid‐induced gene I (RIG‐I) pathway and induce immunogenic cell death (ICD). The use of L1‐cispt/L1‐transpt‐treated dying cells as therapeutic vaccines stimulated a robust immune response and effectively inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Our findings highlight the importance of the rational combination of specific spatial recognition and covalent locking in G4‐trageting drug design and their potential in immunotherapy.
Migration and Precipitation of Platinum in Anion‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Raut Aniket , Fang Haoyan , Lin Yu‐Chung , Fu Shi , Sprouster David , Shimogawa Ryuichi , Frenkel Anatoly I. , Bae Chulsung , Douglin John C. , Lillojad Jaana , Tammeveski Kaido , Zeng Zhiqiao , Bliznakov Stoyan , Rafailovich Miriam , Dekel Dario R.
Published: July 2023

Despite the recent progress in increasing the power generation of Anion‐exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs), their durability is still far lower than that of Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Using the complementary techniques of X‐ray micro‐computed tomography (CT), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy, we have identified Pt ion migration as an important factor to explain the decay in performance of AEMFCs. In alkaline media Pt+2 ions are easily formed which then either undergo dissolution into the carbon support or migrate to the membrane. In contrast to PEMFCs, where hydrogen cross over reduces the ions forming a vertical “Pt line” within the membrane, the ions in the AEM are trapped by charged groups within the membrane, leading to disintegration of the membrane and failure. Diffusion of the metal components is still observed when the Pt/C of the cathode is substituted with a FeCo−N−C catalyst, but in this case the Fe and Co ions are not trapped within the membrane, but rather migrate into the anode, thereby increasing the stability of the membrane.
Nonclassical Crystallization Causes Dendritic and Band‐Like Microscale Patterns in Inorganic Precipitates
Authors: Nogueira Jéssica A. , Batista Bruno C. , Cooper Maggie A. , Steinbock Oliver
Published: July 2023

The self‐organization of complex solids can create patterns extending hierarchically from the atomic to the macroscopic scale. A frequently studied model is the chemical garden system which consists of life‐like precipitate shapes. In this study, we examine the thin walls of chemical gardens using microfluidic devices that yield linear Ni(OH)2 precipitate membranes. We observe distinct light‐scattering patterns within the compositionally pure membranes, including disorganized spots, dendrites, and parallel bands. The bands are tilted with respect to the membrane axis and their spacing (20–100 μm) increases with increasing flow rates. Scanning electron microscopy reveals that the bands consist of submicron particles embedded in a denser material and these particles are also found in the reactant stream. We propose that dendrites and bands arise from the attachment of solution‐borne nanoparticles. The bands are generated by particle‐aggregation zones moving upstream along the slowly advancing membrane surface. The speed of the aggregation zones is proportional to the band distance and defines the system's dispersion relation. This speed‐wavelength dependence and the flow‐opposing motion of the aggregation zones are likely caused by low particle concentrations in the wake of the zones that only slowly recover due to Brownian motion and particle nucleation.
Multifunctional hydrogel‐based electrolytes for thermoelectrochromic devices
Authors: Cannavale Alessandro , Pugliese Marco , De Matteis Valeria , Giannuzzi Roberto , Mancarella Francesca , Valenzano Vitantonio , Ayr Ubaldo , Liuzzi Stefania , Maiorano Vincenzo , Berardi Umberto , Gigli Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

In this work, we presented a new thermoelectrochromic device based on the preparation of a hydrogel‐based electrolyte derived from cellulose, namely hydroxypropyl cellulose, with thermochromic properties and a good ion conduction at atmospheric conditions. With these premises, an electrochromic layer of PEDOT:PSS was developed to fabricate a multifunctional device capable of exploiting the TC properties of HCP when the critical temperature of 43°C is reached, where an increase in reflectance of 37% at 420 nm is reported and, at the same time, capable of undergoing a significant modulation of transmittance (52% at 650 nm) when a small external bias (2.5 V) is applied. To our knowledge, it is the first time that a smart window is designed embodying HPC and PEDOT:PSS in a single device, reporting a fully organic system suitable for several applications, from constructions to transportation.
Targeting the binding pocket of the fluorophore 8‐anilinonaphthalene‐1‐sulfonic acid in the bacterial enzyme MurA
Authors: Fathalla Reem K. , Engel Matthias , Ducho Christian
Published: July 2023

8‐Anilinonaphthalene‐1‐sulfonic acid (ANS) has been extensively used as a fluorescent probe to detect conformational changes of proteins. It has been cocrystallized with several of the proteins it is used to monitor, including the bacterial cell wall synthesis enzyme MurA. MurA catalyzes the first committed step of peptidoglycan biosynthesis, converting UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine (UDP‐GlcNAc) into enolpyruvyl UDP‐GlcNAc. It has been reported before that ANS binds to MurA from Enterobacter cloacae without inhibiting the enzyme's activity up to a concentration of 1 mM ANS. In this study, we present evidence that ANS inhibits the activity of several isoforms of MurA with IC50 values of 18, 22, and 31 µM against wild‐type Escherichia coli, C115D E. coli, and E. cloacae MurA, respectively. This prompted us to test a larger series of structural analogs of ANS for the inhibition of these MurA enzymes, which led to the discovery of compound 26. This ANS analog showed enhanced inhibition of MurA (WT and C115D MurA from E. coli, and E. cloacae MurA) with IC50 values of 2.7, 10, and 14 µM, respectively. Based on our results, the ANS binding pocket was identified as a novel target site for the development of potential antibiotics.
Evaluation of combined effects of brief electrical stimulation and Schwann‐like cells on sciatic nerve injury model
Authors: Kilic Mahmut Alp , Abdulova Aynur , Tanriverdi Gamze , Bilgin Mehmet Dincer
Published: July 2023

Severe nerve injuries can be treated with electrical stimulation and stem cell therapies, but little is known about the potential benefits of combining these two treatments. In an effort to investigate this combination, we conducted a study to evaluate the effectiveness of electrical stimulation and Schwann‐like cell transplantation in female Wistar albino rats. Our study consisted of five groups of rats: a sham group, an injury group, an electrical stimulation group, a Schwann‐like cell group, and a combination group. The experimental groups received electrical stimulation, Schwann‐like cell transplantation, or both. The animals sciatic function index was evaluated during a 6‐week recovery period, and nerve conduction velocity, wet muscle mass, and nerve tissues were also analyzed. The results of the study showed that all experimental groups had a faster functional recovery compared to the injury group, although the difference between groups was not statistically significant. Both the combination group and the Schwann‐like cell transplantation group had a higher nerve conduction velocity compared to the other experimental groups. However, there was no significant difference between the combination and Schwann‐like cell transplantation groups. Nonetheless, histological analysis showed a better axonal reorganization in the combination group. The study provides preliminary evidence of the potential benefits of combining electrical stimulation and Schwann‐like cell transplantation in treating severe nerve injuries. However, further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings and optimize the treatment parameters.
Chiral LC–MS/MS method for the discrimination of triiodothyronine enantiomers on a crown ether‐based chiral stationary phase
Authors: Choi Byeongchan , Adhikari Suraj , Ji Moong‐gi , Paik Man‐Jeong , Lee Gwang , Lee Wonjae
Published: July 2023

Considering the greater pharmaceutical and clinical interest of triiodothyronine (T3) thyroid hormone, an effective D/L‐T3 enantiomer separation was performed on a crown ether‐based chiral stationary phase by LC–MS/MS. In optimal analytical condition and selected reaction monitoring mode, the two enantiomers of T3 were baseline separated within 10 min. The limit of detection and limit of quantitation were found to be 0.05 and 0.10 ng/μl; 0.20 and 0.50 ng/μl for D‐ and L‐T3, respectively. During validation, this method proved to be feasible, accurate as well as enantioselective and sensitive for the resolution of T3 enantiomers. For commercial D‐ and L‐T3 chemicals, the enantiomeric impurities as the other enantiomer were 0.11% and 4.61%. On the other hand, the impurity as D‐T3 for commercial pharmaceutical products (liothyronine sodium tablets, two suppliers) was 0.68% and 6.57%.
Investigations into the Aqueous Synthesis of Selenoglycoconjugates
Authors: Lim David , Paradisi Francesca
Published: July 2023

Glycosylation of bioactive molecules has been found to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of the parent molecule. However, their syntheses often require tedious protecting group manipulations. The development of methodologies which allow direct aqueous conversion of unprotected sugars into glycosides is therefore an ambitious goal. Herein, we present a broadly applicable method for the synthesis of selenoglycosides in water. We show the ease of direct conjugation of unprotected glycosyl diselenides with various biomolecules, including resorcinol, resveratrol, and the antitumor agent, gimeracil, furnishing the corresponding selenoglycoconjugates in up to 96 % yield. We also demonstrate the oxidatively‐triggered release of the bioactive drug from the sugar, priming these molecules for medicinal applications. The generality and broad substrate scope of this novel transformation will provide access to various selenium‐containing glycomimetics and glycoconjugates.
Pd/Co2(CO)8‐mediated bi‐metallic catalysis: Facile synthesis of pharmacologically relevant novel tacrine analogues
Authors: Babu Aravinda , Sunil K. , Sajith Ayyiliath Meleveetil , Muthipeedika Nibin Joy , Santra Sougata , Zyryanov Grigory V.
Published: July 2023

Facile synthesis of amino/alkoxy/hydroxy‐carbonylated tacrine analogues by employing Pd/Co2(CO)8 mediated bimetallic catalysis is reported herein. A wide variety of amides and esters have been successfully incorporated at C‐6 of the tacrine core by employing this useful synthetic technology. The major highlight of this methodology includes the use of cobalt carbonyl in catalytic amounts to enhance the efficiency of the overall reaction.