bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipopeptides as rhizosphere public goods for microbial cooperation
Authors: Rigolet Augustin , Argüelles Arias Anthony , Anckaert Adrien , Quinton Loïc , Rigali Sébastien , Tellatin Deborah , Burguet Pierre , Ongena Marc
Published: December 2023

Cyclic lipopeptides (CLPs) are key bioactive secondary metabolites produced by some plant beneficial rhizobacteria such as
Pseudomonas
and
Bacillus
. They exhibit antimicrobial properties, promote induced systemic resistance in plants, and support key developmental traits, including motility, biofilm formation, and root colonization. However, our knowledge about the fate of lipopeptides once released in the environment and especially upon contact with neighboring rhizobacteria remains limited. Here, we investigated the enzymatic degradation of
Bacillus
and
Pseudomonas
cyclic lipopeptides by
Streptomyces
. We observed that
Streptomyces venezuelae
is able to degrade the three lipopeptides surfactin, iturin, and fengycin upon interaction with
Bacillus velezensis in vitro
and
in planta
according to specific mechanisms.
S. venezuelae
was also able to degrade the structurally diverse sessilin-, tolaasin-, orfamide-, xantholisin-, and putisolvin-type lipopeptides produced by
Pseudomonas,
indicating that this trait is likely engaged in the interaction with various competitors. Furthermore, the degradation of CLPs is associated with the release of free amino and fatty acids used by
Streptomyces
to sustain growth. Additionally, we hypothesize that lipopeptide-producing rhizobacteria and their biocontrol potential are impacted by the degradation of their lipopeptides as observed with the polarized motility of
B. velezensis
, avoiding the confrontation zone with
Streptomyces
and the loss of antifungal properties of degraded iturin.

IMPORTANCE

Here, we provide new insights into the possible fate of cyclic lipopeptides as prominent specialized metabolites from beneficial bacilli and pseudomonads once released in the soil. Our data illustrate how the
B. velezensis
lipopeptidome may be enzymatically remodeled by
Streptomyces
as important members of the soil bacterial community. The enzymatic arsenal of
S. venezuelae
enables an unsuspected extensive degradation of these compounds, allowing the bacterium to feed on these exogenous products via a mechanism going beyond linearization, which was previously reported as a detoxification strategy. As soils are carbon-rich and nitrogen-poor environments, we propose a new role for cyclic lipopeptides in interspecies interactions, which is to fuel the nitrogen metabolism of a part of the rhizosphere microbial community.
Streptomyces
and other actinomycetes, producing numerous peptidases and displaying several traits of beneficial bacteria, should be at the front line to directly benefit from these metabolites as “public goods” for microbial cooperation.
Impact of improper sample handling on Cobas CT/NG testing platform with dual swab sample collection kit for detecting
Chlamydia trachomatis
and
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Navarathna Dhammika H. , Sayers Kelle B. , Murray Derek C.
Published: December 2023

In the realm of molecular diagnostics, accurate and reliable test results are imperative for effective clinical decision-making. This study delves into the effects of non-compliant sample collection practices on the Cobas CT/NG testing platform. Deviating from the manufacturer’s recommendation of single swab collection, our laboratory received dual swabs during sample collection. Subsequently, we embarked on an investigation to ascertain the cause behind a noticeable rise in invalid results, which were found to be exacerbated by improper sample handling practices, accounting for a significant 30% of cases. Through a comprehensive comparative analysis, we found that the use of dual swabs in testing contributed to a substantial increase in both invalid and false-negative results when compared to properly collected samples submitted with a single swab. This study underscores the importance of adhering to recommended protocols for sample collection to ensure accurate and reliable molecular diagnostic outcomes.

IMPORTANCE

The importance of this observation lies in its potential to directly impact testing outcomes and patient care. By identifying improper sample handling as a contributing factor to a substantial number of invalid results, we emphasize the need for meticulous adherence to recommended protocols during sample collection. Laboratories that overlook or are unaware of such deviations may inadvertently compromise the reliability and efficacy of their diagnostic processes, leading to misdiagnoses, delayed treatment, and patient dissatisfaction.
Structural Algebraic Quantum Field Theory: Particles with Structure
Authors: Alhaidari A. D.
Published: December 2023

Conventional quantum field theory is a method for studying structureless elementary particles. Non-elementary particles, on the other hand, are those with internal structure or particles that are made up of elementary constituents like the nucleons, which contain quarks and gluons. We introduce a structure-inclusive algebraic formulation of quantum field theory that could handle such particles and in which orthogonal polynomials play a central role. For simplicity, we consider non-elementary scalar particles in 3 + 1 Minkowski space-time and, in an appendix, we treat spinors having structure but in 1 + 1 space-time. We show how scattering calculations are done in this theory for an illustrative example with nonlinear coupling. The aim of this short exposé is to motivate further studies and research using this approach.
Trends in research on latent heat storage using PCM, a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Shazad Atif , Tufail Muhammad , Uzair Muhammad
Published: December 2023

Latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) is a particularly noteworthy thermal energy storage (TES) technology due to its high energy storage density. LHTES involves the use of phase change materials to store thermal energy, which can subsequently be used for heating and cooling applications as well as power generation. This paper outlines the techniques and tools employed to analyse the existing literature on TES and LHTES systems research. Bibliometric, a statistical approach to analysing written publications in specific fields of research, is used to identify significant findings and determine the course of scientific output. A strategic analysis of knowledge development is crucial for detecting opportunities and advancements within the field. This research offers valuable insights into the publication trends within the fields of TES and LHTES over the last three decades. Additionally, the study conducts a thorough examination of the geometric configurations of LHTES systems and their potential impacts on ongoing and future research. By tracking publication rates over 30 years, this study provides a comprehensive overview of how research in TES and LHTES has evolved. Understanding these trends helps researchers and policy makers gauge the growth and relevance of these fields in the context of energy storage and thermal management.
Clairaut slant Riemannian maps to Kähler manifolds
Authors: Yadav Jyoti , Shanker Gauree , Polat Murat
Published: December 2023

The aim of this paper is to study the idea of Clairaut slant Riemannian maps from Riemannian manifolds to Kähler manifolds. First, for the slant Riemannian map, we obtain the necessary and sufficient conditions for a curve to be a geodesic on the base manifold. Further, we find the necessary and sufficient conditions for the slant Riemannian map to be a Clairaut slant Riemannian map; for Clairaut slant Riemannian map to be totally geodesic; for the base manifold to be a locally product manifold. Further, we obtain the necessary and sufficient condition for the integrability of range of derivative map. Also, we investigate the harmonicity of Clairaut slant Riemannian map. Finally, we get two inequalities in terms of second fundamental form of a Clairaut slant Riemannian map and check the equality case.
How the Web Will Shape the Hybrid Work Era: A Keynote at WWW 2022
Authors: Teevan Jaime
Published: December 2023

The web has been a driving force for innovation and transformation in how people work for the past several decades, enabling new forms of collaboration, the ability to collect data at scale, and, eventually, significant improvements in artificial intelligence. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, created a phase change that accelerated this transformation by requiring anyone who could possibly work remotely to do so. In my keynote at the ACM Web Conference 2022, I reflected on the impact of the web and remote work on work practices, and discussed the opportunities and challenges for the coming Hybrid Work Era. As researchers we must intentionally revisit how online and physical spaces interact so that we can create a new - and better - future of work.

Date:
29 April 2022.
Involvement of aquaporin 5 and Na-K-2Cl cotransporter 1 in the pathogenesis of primary focal hyperhidrosis: evidence from the primary sweat gland cell culture
Authors: Lin Jianbo , Lin Min , Du Quan , Tu Yuanrong , Chen Jianfeng
Published: December 2023

The dependence of ACh-stimulated calcium transients on AQP5 and Na-K-2Cl cotransporter 1 (NKCC1) expression may be involved in the development of primary focal hyperhidrosis (PFH).
Interaction of the C2C12 myotube contractions and glucose availability on transcriptome and extracellular vesicle microRNAs
Authors: Lautaoja-Kivipelto Juulia H. , Karvinen Sira , Korhonen Tia-Marje , O’Connell Thomas M. , Tiirola Marja , Hulmi Juha J. , Pekkala Satu
Published: December 2023

The present study examined for the first time the effects of exercise-like electrical pulse stimulation administered under distinct nutritional conditions on 1) the transcriptome of the C2C12 myotubes and 2) their media containing extracellular vesicle-carried microRNAs. We report that higher glucose availability augmented transcriptional responses related especially to contractility and cytokine/inflammatory pathways. Agreeing with in vivo studies, we show that the packing of exercise-responsive miR-1-3p was increased in the extracellular vesicles in response to myotube contractions.
Emerging mRNA therapies for cardiac fibrosis
Authors: Jardin Blake , Epstein Jonathan A.
Published: December 2023

Cardiac fibrosis has few specific interventions available for effective treatment. mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles could provide a novel solution for treating cardiac fibrosis. This AJP perspective discusses what possible strategies could rely on this technology, from in vivo-produced CAR T cells that kill pathological fibroblasts to in vivo-produced T regulatory cells that dampen the concomitant profibrotic inflammatory cells contributing to remodeling, directly targeting fibroblasts and eliminating them or silencing profibrotic pathways.
Lung proinflammatory microRNA and cytokine expression in a mouse model of allergic inflammation: role of sex chromosome complement and gonadal hormones
Authors: Commodore Sarah , Ekpruke Carolyn Damilola , Rousselle Dustin , Alford Rachel , Babayev Maksat , Sharma Shikha , Buechlein Aaron , Rusch Douglas B. , Silveyra Patricia
Published: December 2023

miRNAs play important roles in regulating gene and environmental interactions. However, their role in mediating sex differences in allergic responses and lung diseases has not been elucidated. Our study used a targeted omics approach to characterize the contributions of gonadal hormones and chromosomal components to lung responses to an allergen challenge. Our results point to the influence of sex hormones in miRNA expression and proinflammatory markers in allergic airway inflammation.
Postcarotid Endarterectomy Hematoma Induced Arrhythmia: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Galyfos George , Chamzin Alexandros , Sigala Fragiska , Filis Konstantinos
Published: December 2023

Postcarotid endarterectomy (CEA) hematomas are common although they are rarely threatening and necessitate reoperation. We aim to report a rare case of an expanding hematoma that caused a cardiac arrhythmia (bigeminy) which was reversed after hematoma evacuation.
A Case of Trueperella bernardiae Bacteremia due to a PICC-Associated Infection in a Paraplegic Patient
Authors: Chapman Carter , Nichols Jacob
Published: December 2023

Trueperella bernardiae is a Gram-positive bacterium known to cause a wide variety of opportunistic infections in humans. We report a novel case of T. bernardiae bacteremia in a paraplegic patient due to a peripherally inserted central catheter- (PICC-) associated infection that was treated successfully with piperacillin/tazobactam.
TNFRSF19 within the 13q12.12 Risk Locus Functions as a Lung Cancer Suppressor by Binding Wnt3a to Inhibit Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Zuo Xianglin , Wang Xuchun , Ma Tingzheng , Chen Shuhan , Cao Pingping , Cheng He , Yang Nan , Han Xiao , Gao Wei , Liu Xiaoyu , Sun Yujie
Published: December 2023

Cancer risk loci provide special clues for uncovering pathogenesis of cancers. The TNFRSF19 gene located within the 13q12.12 lung cancer risk locus encodes TNF receptor superfamily member 19 (TNFRSF19) protein and has been proved to be a key target gene of a lung tissue–specific tumor suppressive enhancer, but its functional role in lung cancer pathogenesis remains to be elucidated. Here we showed that the TNFRSF19 gene could protect human bronchial epithelial Beas-2B cells from pulmonary carcinogen nicotine-derived nitrosamine ketone (NNK)-induced malignant transformation. Knockout of the TNFRSF19 significantly increased NNK-induced colony formation rate on soft agar. Moreover, TNFRSF19 expression was significantly reduced in lung cancer tissues and cell lines. Restoration of TNFRSF19 expression in A549 lung cancer cell line dramatically suppressed the tumor formation in xenograft mouse model. Interestingly, the TNFRSF19 protein that is an orphan membrane receptor could compete with LRP6 to bind Wnt3a, thereby inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway that is required for NNK-induced malignant transformation as indicated by protein pulldown, site mutation, and fluorescence energy resonance transfer experiments. Knockout of the TNFRSF19 enhanced LRP6–Wnt3a interaction, promoting β-catenin nucleus translocation and the downstream target gene expression, and thus sensitized the cells to NNK carcinogen. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that the TNFRSF19 inhibited lung cancer carcinogenesis by competing with LRP6 to combine with Wnt3a to inhibit the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.

Implications:

These findings revealed a novel anti-lung cancer mechanism, highlighting the special significance of TNFRSF19 gene within the 13q12.12 risk locus in lung cancer pathogenesis.
TABLE 2 from Phase Ib Trial of Phenformin in Patients with V600-mutated Melanoma Receiving Dabrafenib and Trametinib
Authors: Chapman Paul B. , Klang Mark , Postow Michael A. , Shoushtari Alexander Noor , Sullivan Ryan J. , Wolchok Jedd D. , Merghoub Taha , Budhu Sadna , Wong Phillip , Callahan Margaret K. , Zheng Bin , Zippin Jonathan
Published: December 2023

AEs attributable to study drug
TABLE 1 from Phase Ib Trial of Phenformin in Patients with V600-mutated Melanoma Receiving Dabrafenib and Trametinib
Authors: Chapman Paul B. , Klang Mark , Postow Michael A. , Shoushtari Alexander Noor , Sullivan Ryan J. , Wolchok Jedd D. , Merghoub Taha , Budhu Sadna , Wong Phillip , Callahan Margaret K. , Zheng Bin , Zippin Jonathan
Published: December 2023

Patient demographics
FIGURE 1 from Phase Ib Trial of Phenformin in Patients with V600-mutated Melanoma Receiving Dabrafenib and Trametinib
Authors: Chapman Paul B. , Klang Mark , Postow Michael A. , Shoushtari Alexander Noor , Sullivan Ryan J. , Wolchok Jedd D. , Merghoub Taha , Budhu Sadna , Wong Phillip , Callahan Margaret K. , Zheng Bin , Zippin Jonathan
Published: December 2023

Swimmer plot showing time on study. Patients are grouped by dose level. Red bars indicate patients who had a CR; blue bars are patients with a PR. Black bars indicate patients with no response. Patients who had received prior treatment with RAF inhibitors are indicated with an asterisk. The reason for treatment discontinuation is indicated to the right of each bar. POD, progression of disease; TOX, toxicity. Patient 6 underwent complete resection of residual melanoma and was then taken off study.
Impact of Tumor Shrinkage Pattern with Biweekly Triplet Gemcitabine+Cisplatin+S-1 Regimen for Biliary Tract Cancers: Implications for Neoadjuvant Therapy from the Data of KHBO1401 (KHBO1401-1A Study)
Authors: Kobayashi Shogo , Wada Hiroshi , Sakai Daisuke , Baba Hideo , Kanai Masashi , Kamachi Hirofumi , Takayama Tadatoshi , Ueno Masaki , Takahashi Masahiro , Sho Masayuki , Yoshimura Kenichi , Hatano Etsuro , Nagano Hiroaki , Ioka Tatsuya ,   on behalf of Kansai Hepato-Biliary Oncology (KHBO) Group
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The multicenter randomized phase III KHBO1401 study (gemcitabine+cisplatin+S-1 [GCS] vs. GC in biliary tract cancers [BTC]) demonstrated that GCS not only prolonged patient survival but also achieved a high response rate and that it should be good for neoadjuvant therapy. Therefore, to explore the possibilities of neoadjuvant therapy, we investigated the tumor shrinkage pattern. Methods: Among the total of 246 patients enrolled in the KHBO1401, the tumor shrinkage pattern and survival were investigated in patients with measurable BTC (n = 183, 74%; GCS, n = 91; GC, n = 92). Results: The tumor shrinkage pattern could be divided into 4 categories based on the response at 100 days after enrollment: categories A (<–30% in size), B (−30–0%), C (0% to +20%), and D (>+20%). The GCS arm included more category A and B cases (61 [67%] vs. 33 [36%], p < 0.0001). Each category predicted the best response and overall survival (p < 0.0001). Category A showed sustained tumor response compared with category B; in GCS, the time to maximum tumor response was 165 ± 76 days in category A and 139 ± 78 in category B. Categories C and D did not achieve tumor shrinkage. The maximum tumor shrinkage size in category A was −53% in the GCS arm and −65% in the GC arm (p = 0.0892). Twenty percent of patients in the GCS showed tumor regrowth 154 ± 143 days later. Conclusion: GCS provided faster and greater tumor shrinkage with better survival in comparison to GC, although 20% of patients showed regrowth after 6 cycles.
Report of a Novel Homozygous Intragenic DCC Duplication and a Review of Literature of Developmental Split-Brain Syndrome aka Horizontal Gaze Palsy with Progressive Scoliosis-2 with Impaired Intellectual Development Syndrome
Authors: Rahikkala Elisa , Väisänen Taneli , Ojala Liisa , Pohjola Pia , Toivonen Minna , Parkkola Riitta , Haanpää Maria K.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Horizontal gaze palsy with progressive scoliosis-2 (HGPPS2, MIM 617542) with impaired intellectual development aka developmental split-brain syndrome is an ultra-rare congenital disorder caused by pathogenic biallelic variants in the deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) gene. Case Presentation: We report the clinical and genetic characterization of a Syrian patient with a HGPPS2 phenotype and review the previously published cases of HGPPS2. The genetic screening was performed using exome sequencing on Illumina platform. Genetic analysis revealed a novel DCC c.(?_1912)_(2359_?)dup, p.(Ser788Tyrfs*4) variant segregating recessively in the family. This type of variant has not been described previously in the HGPPS2 patients. To date, including the case reported here, three different homozygous pathogenic frameshift variants, one homozygous missense variant, and an intragenic duplication in the DCC gene have been reported in 8 patients with the HGPPS2 syndrome. Conclusion: The analysis of duplications and deletions in the DCC should be included in the routine genetic diagnostic evaluation of patients with suspected HGPPS2. This report expands the knowledge of phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of pathogenic variants causing HGPPS2.
Neonatal Respiratory Support Utilization in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Registry-Based Observational Study
Authors: Switchenko Nora , Shukla Vivek , Mwenechanya Musaku , Chomba Elwyn , Patel Archana , Hibberd Patricia L. , Ambalavanan Namasivayam , Figueroa Lester , Mazariegos Manolo , Krebs Nancy F. , Goudar Shivaprasad S. , Derman Richard , Esamai Fabian , Liechty Edward A. , Bucher Sheri , Saleem Sarah , Goldenberg Robert L. , Lokangaka Adrien , Tshefu Antoinette , Bose Carl L. , Koso-Thomas Marion , Tan Sylvia , Nolen Tracy , McClure Elizabeth M. , Carlo Waldemar A.
Published: December 2023

Background: Newborns with hypoxemia often require life-saving respiratory support. In low-resource settings, it is unknown if respiratory support is delivered more frequently to term infants or preterm infants. We hypothesized that in a registry-based birth cohort in 105 geographic areas in seven low- and middle-income countries, more term newborns received respiratory support than preterm newborns. Methods: This is a hypothesis-driven observational study based on prospectively collected data from the Maternal and Newborn Health Registry of the NICHD Global Network for Women’s and Children’s Health Research. Eligible infants enrolled in the registry were live-born between 22 and 44 weeks gestation with a birth weight ≥400 g and born from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2018. Frequency data were obtained to report the number of term and preterm infants who received treatment with oxygen only, CPAP, or mechanical ventilation. Test for trends over time were conducted using robust Poisson regression. Results: 177,728 (86.3%) infants included in this study were term, and 28,249 (13.7%) were preterm. A larger number of term infants (n = 5,108) received respiratory support compared to preterm infants (n = 3,287). Receipt of each mode of respiratory support was more frequent in term infants. The proportion of preterm infants who received respiratory support (11.6%) was higher than the proportion of term infants receiving respiratory support (2.9%, p < 0.001). The rate of provision of respiratory support varied between sites. Conclusions: Respiratory support was more frequently used in term infants expected to be at low risk for respiratory disorders compared to preterm infants.
Relationship between Walking and Driving, and Cognitive Functioning Common to Both Modes of Mobility, in Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Chavoix Chantal , Paire-Ficout Laurence , Lafont Sylviane
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Driving and walking, the two main modes of mobility, require numerous common skills in the motor, sensory, and cognitive domains that deteriorate with age. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between walking and driving in healthy older drivers and to determine whether certain cognitive processes are involved in both modes of mobility. Method: Seventy-six older drivers from the Safe Move cohort were assessed in the following three domains: (1) cognition, using parts A and B of the Trail Making Test (TMT), the digit symbol substitution test (DSST), the Stroop test, and the Digit span; (2) gait, using a dual-task (DT) paradigm with a counting task; and (3) driving, assessed via a 40–50 min on-road test. Analyses were also performed on 2 subgroups: young-old (70–74 years old; n = 43) and old-old (≥75 years; n = 33). Results: Four significant correlations were found across the whole sample between gait performance under DT conditions and driving scores. One correlation was also found in old-old adults. None were found in young-old adults. Furthermore, several cognitive measures were significantly correlated to both modes of mobility: TMT-A and B completion time in the whole sample, and DSST performance in the whole sample and old-old adults. Discussion/Conclusion: Walking in complex conditions and on-road driving performance are closely related in healthy older drivers. Visuospatial attention, processing speed, and executive function are crucial and common cognitive processes to both modes of mobility in this population. Impairment in these cognitive functions should thus alert health professionals as it can quickly lead to mobility disorders, loss of autonomy and social isolation. Developing specific preventive programs and mobility support systems for healthy older adults is also crucial.
Mediational Analyses of the Effects of Social Behaviour and Network Therapy on Alcohol Use
Authors: Bedendo Andre , Gaume Jacques , Studer Joseph , Tober Gillian , Raistrick Duncan , Heather Nick , Souza-Formigoni Maria Lucia Oliveira , McCambridge Jim
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Social behaviour and network therapy involves an active participation of the practitioner in recruiting a supportive network to change the client’s alcohol use. Despite achieving beneficial effects on alcohol consumption, its possible mechanisms of change are a relatively under-studied topic compared to those of other alcohol treatment interventions. This study aimed to explore therapist skills through which social behaviour and network therapy may achieve effects on alcohol consumption in comparison with motivational enhancement therapy. Methods: This study was secondary analysis of data from the UK Alcohol Treatment Trial, a multicentre, pragmatic, randomized controlled trial. The sample comprised 376 participants randomized to motivational enhancement therapy or social behaviour and network therapy. We used the UK Alcohol Treatment Trial Process Rating Scale to assess therapist skills. Outcomes drinks per drinking day and percentage of days abstinent were assessed 12 months after treatment initiation. Analyses were conducted in a simple mediation framework. Results: Therapist skills score (combining frequency and quality) for involving others in behaviour change mediated social behaviour and network therapy effects on percentage of days abstinent (b = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.02; 0.10, p = 0.01). The frequency with which therapists acted as an active agent for change also mediated the effects of social behaviour and network therapy on percentage of days abstinent (b = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.003; 0.05, p = 0.03). The frequency with which the therapist stressed social support as a key factor in achieving change unexpectedly mediated an increase in drinks per drinking day (b = 0.10, 95% CI: 0.01; 0.18, p = 0.02). The two latter mediation effects were not sustained when quality was considered. All other indirect effects tested were non-significant. Discussion/Conclusions: How social behaviour and network therapy exerts effects on alcohol outcomes is not yet well understood and in this study was not attributable to observed ratings of therapist treatment-specific skills. Therapist skill in planning the involvement of others during treatment, however, warrants further study. We suggest that the present findings should be regarded as hypothesis generating as it identifies specific targets for further investigation in alcohol treatment process studies.
Association between Estimated Pulse Wave Velocity and Incident Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Korean Adults
Authors: Kim Byung Sik , Kim Hyun-Jin , Shin Jeong-Hun
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with vascular dysfunction, one of the signs of which is arterial stiffness. Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), which is considered the gold standard measure of arterial stiffness, can be estimated using two commonly assessed clinical variables: age and blood pressure. This study aimed to evaluate the association between estimated PWV (ePWV) and the prevalence and incidence of NAFLD among Korean adults. Methods: This study used data from the Ansan-Ansung cohort study, a subset of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study, and included 8,336 adult participants with and without NAFLD at baseline. The participants were subdivided into three tertile groups according to ePWV. Results: At baseline, the prevalence of NAFLD was 10.5, 27.5, and 35.0% in the first (lowest), second, and third (highest) tertiles of ePWV, respectively. During the 18-year follow-up period, 2,467 (42.9%) incident cases of NAFLD were identified among 5,755 participants who did not have NAFLD at baseline. After adjustment for clinically relevant variables, participants in the second (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12–1.40) and third (adjusted HR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.24–1.64) tertiles of ePWV had a significantly higher risk of incident NAFLD than those in the first tertile. Conclusion: Higher ePWV is independently associated with an elevated risk of NAFLD in the general population.
Internationalization Practices and Preparations: A Case of a State University in Central Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Rogayan Jr Danilo V. , Mendoza Ma. Shiela G.
Published: December 2023

In the era of internationalization, Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs) are compelled to continually refine their operations and governance to align with global standards. This descriptive cross-sectional survey research was conducted to assess the extent of practices and preparations for internationalization at a state university in Central Luzon, Philippines. The study engaged four administrators and 21 faculty members as respondents, collectively offering a perspective on the university's approach to internationalization. The study reveals that the university has initiated practices and preparations geared towards internationalization. Nonetheless, it is evident that there is room for further enhancement of its strategic directions and plans to more comprehensively integrate internationalization into its academic programs, policies, and administrative processes. This paradigm shift will require a measured, time-sensitive approach to ensure that the university meets its internationalization goals successfully. To expedite this process, the university administration could proactively take the lead in championing and facilitating internationalization efforts. This proactive leadership is pivotal in building a culture of global engagement, forging international partnerships, and positioning the university as a frontrunner in the international academic landscape. By doing so, the university can more effectively embrace the challenges and opportunities of internationalization in higher education.
Defending Women Journalists in the Philippines from Threats and Intimidations
Authors: Gomez Abigail C.
Published: December 2023

Despite the studies on defending journalism and coming up with various practices to protect journalists, still, the Philippines ranked as the third worst country in impunity versus journalists in the 2016 Global Impunity Index released by the Committee to Protect Journalists. In 2017, 2018, and 2019, it ranked fifth in the same impunity index. Then, the country ranked 7th and was still consistently part of the Top 10 rankings for the past three years, 2020, 2021, and 2022. This shows that the number of threats against journalists remains significant. This study deals with quantitative approaches to determine the threats and intimidations that selected women journalists face and provide course of actions which media companies may use to at least lower the ranking of the country in the impunity index.

Results reveal that the most common threats and intimidations received by the women journalists in line of doing their duty are: blackmailing from sources, threats of physical violence, and public humiliation/ threats to humiliate (even in online platforms). Likewise, women journalists prove that they experience forms of harassments like receiving offers of sexual favors from their sources and employers in exchange of promotion and information privileges. To address these issues, corrective, preventive, and developmental actions are proposed to be implemented in respective media companies. Among these actions, the formation of a gender and development unit, ethics investigation committee, and local cybercrime division in the company are evaluated as the most acceptable and feasible actions for the women journalists. It is imperative that these recommendations be taken seriously and implemented to ensure a safer environment for women journalists in the Philippines and to safeguard the freedom and integrity of journalism in the country.
Awareness and Availment of Services of Solo Parents as Provided in Republic Act 8972
Authors: Broncano Amalia B.
Published: December 2023

This research study was purposely conducted to determine the Level of Awareness and Extent of Availment of Services of Solo Parents as Provided in the Republic Act 8972. The concurrent-mixed method of research was utilized in the conduct of this study. From the results and findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn: a) the level of awareness was interpreted as poor. This conclusion came from the following indicators: criteria for support as poor, qualifications of solo parent as high and the comprehensive package of social development and welfare services as very poor; b) extent of availment of services was interpreted as very low as the following indicators were assessed by the respondents as very low at all. These indicators are the livelihood development, counseling services, parent effectiveness services, flexible work schedule, educational benefits, housing benefits and medical assistance were all interpreted as very low; c) the difference in level of awareness and extent of availment among aspects across areas is significant. Proposed Intervention Plan was crafted to help the local government units particularly the City and Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices enhance the level of awareness and extent of availment of benefits of solo parents.
Spatial Modeling of Flood Affected Areas of Krukut River in Pela-Mampang Segment, South Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Rakuasa Heinrich , Sugandhi Nadhi , Kusratmoko Supriatna, Eko
Published: December 2023

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in Indonesia, and the capital city of DKI Jakarta is no exception. Every year, there are always areas that experience flooding, mainly triggered by the overflow of flowing rivers. Jakarta itself is located in a downstream area consisting of swampy areas that are floodplains. One of the river basins that most often experiences flooding is the Krukut River. This is mainly triggered by the high value of rainfall which can reach more than 200 mm in a day. Massive development along the riverbanks has exacerbated the flooding, especially in the Pela Mampang segment which includes Pela Mampang Village, Mampang Prapatan Subdistrict and Petogogan Village, Kebayoran Baru Subdistrict. This research models two-dimensional flood inundation using the HEC-RAS program to describe the distribution of potential floods for return periods of 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 years. In addition, a spatial analysis of the affected infrastructure up to the RT level was also conducted to provide an overview of the extent of inundation using 4 types of classifications (low, medium, high and extreme). The results showed that 19 out of 150 RTs in Pela Mampang urban village and 33 out of 79 RTs in Petogogan urban village were flooded with a total inundation area of 100-year flood reaching 39.58 ha. The affected infrastructure reached 1,903 units with the area of inundated roads reaching 3.27 ha. It is hoped that this research can provide input for future infrastructure planning and river management in order to anticipate and mitigate disasters better.
Perceived Stress and Anxiety Levels of Teachers Toward an Intervention Program
Authors: Dominado Noel L. , Atienza Yves Ivan Manabat
Published: December 2023

This study evaluated teachers' perceived stress and anxiety levels. This study put into open and addressed the gap among the perceived stress and anxiety levels of the participants of the study as an input to an intervention program for the 39 teaching personnel of one of the leading university extension campuses in the province of Pampanga for the academic year 2021-2022. The study has 2 phases: the quantitative and the qualitative phase. This study was assessed through a 5-point type-Likert questionnaire, which is the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) (1983) PROMIS Health Organization (PHO), and PROMIS Cooperative (2012). The Sequential Explanatory Approach was used in this study. In the quantitative data analysis of the results, the mean, frequency, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation were used. Outliers were then identified and used as variables in the qualitative process. For the qualitative part, interview transcriptions were included, and transcribed data were extracted and labeled to units of meaning through key point coding. Codings with similarities were grouped into concepts that were analyzed to form themes. There were 10 teachers as participants to collect qualitative data, an open-ended interview was used. Findings revealed that the participants’ perceived stress contributed to low self-esteem and life irritations.  Also, it revealed that participants encountered worry, nervousness, and tension; all of these symptoms brought about by anxiety. This study also revealed that there is no relationship between the demographic profiles of the respondents and their perception of stress and anxiety. Due to the positive result of the research, and the lack of stress and anxiety management programs in the institution, this study recommended a program that was formulated and then validated by the expert to provide reasonable practices and approaches to the stress and anxiety of the participants.
Importance-Performance Analysis on the Digital Platform Attributes of Food Convenience Store in Indonesia
Authors: Wahyudin Moh. , Wuryandani Shafira , Maksum Mochammad , Arifadini Qistina
Published: December 2023

The development of digital technology has changed many things in consumer behavior, including in shopping for daily necessities. The flexibility and efficiency offered by digital technology have encouraged the two largest retail companies in Indonesia to develop a digital food convenience store platform as a strategy to improve service to their customers. By 2021, the developed food convenience store platform has been used by more than one million customers. However, some customers have complaints against the platforms. It means that there are platform attribute performances that need to be improved. This study aims to analyze the attributes of the digital food convenience store platform that users consider important and contribute significantly to its performance. The number of respondents in this study was 200 users of digital food convenience stores platforms, and the data obtained were analyzed by the Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) method. As a result, there are 18 attributes that are considered extremely important by users: login methods, product diversity, user data security, delivery accuracy, product accuracy, customer service, shopping discount, shipping cost discount, direct delivery service and product compatibility. However, users rated that customer service, shopping discounts, and shipping discounts attribute did not meet their expectations. Overall, the performance of the digital food convenience store platform in Indonesia reached 85.83% of user expectations, so that the digital platform developer needs to concentrate on these three attributes so that the level of performance can be maximized and meet user expectations.
Income Diversification Through Optimization of Service Rates at Universi-tas Negeri Semarang
Authors: Kurniasih Fransiska Novi , Widayanti Wiwik , Wicaksana Tania
Published: December 2023

Improving the quality of education is a complex matter because it is related to technical problems and the planning, administration, funding, management of income sources, diversification of service rates, and effectiveness and efficiency of the education system. Semarang State University (Unnes) is one of the universities still categorized as a Public Service Agency, which is still transforming into a legal entity university (PTNBH). This study aims to determine the income from the current service tariffs, map the potential for additional revenue from available services, and analyze revenue potential by simulating new service tariffs. The method used in this research is qualitative descriptive. The study results show that the management and transparency of easily obtained university budgeting guide data will reduce the risk of budget management. Budget diversification will minimize the risk so that budget management will run more effectively and efficiently. Furthermore, it is known that the service tariffs that have been in effect so far are considered not optimal and can still be developed into the potential for diversifying the Institution's income. That makes it possible to enter work contracts with external parties to optimize revenue potential and better quality management.
Pengaruh Ketidakpastian Pendapatan Terhadap Status Kepemilikan Rumah di Indonesia
Authors: Baskoro Citra , Djamaluddin Sartika
Published: December 2023

Persentase kepemilikan rumah pada rumah tangga di Indonesia menujukan trend yang semakin menurun dari tahun ke tahun. Keterbatasan penyediaan rumah dan tingginya harga rumah membuat sebagian besar rumah tangga menempuh skema kredit untuk dapat memiliki rumah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menyelidiki bagaimana hubungan antara ketidakpastian pendapatan (income uncertainty), kendala pembiayaan (credit constraint) dan preferensi risiko (risk preference) rumah tangga terhadap status kepemilikan rumah di Indonesia. Studi ini menggunakan data IFLS Tahun 2007 dan 2014. Estimasi menggunakan variabel dengan metode probit dengan data panel dan probit OLS (ordinaryleast square) pada tahun 2014 dilakukan untuk mengetahui hubungan kausalitas antara ketidakpastian pendapatan (income uncertainty), kendala pembiayaan (credit constraint) dan preferensi risiko (risk preference) dengan status kepemilikan rumah di Indonesia. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Indoensia sebagai negara berkembang menunjukan pengaruh negatif dari ketidakpastian pendapatan (income uncertainty) terhadap status kepemilikan rumah di Indonesia lebih besar bila dibandingkan dengan negara maju lainnya. Sedangkan kendala kredit memiliki pengaruh negatif terhadap status kepemilikan rumah di Indonesia, terutama kendala yang bersumber dari keterbatasan kekayaan yang digunakan sebagai jaminan pinjaman.
Assessing The Impact of Jajar Legowo Planting System on Wetland Paddy Productivity and Income of Farmers in Indonesia
Authors: Prasetyo Octavia Rizky , Kadir
Published: December 2023

This study aims to assess whether Jajar Legowo planting system has a significant impact on increasing the productivity of wetland paddy and the income of the paddy growers in Indonesia. We applied a linear regression model to the results of the 2017 National Cost Structure of Paddy Cultivation Household Survey conducted by BPS-Statistics Indonesia in all 34 provinces. The main contribution of this study is to provide an evaluation of the performance of Jajar Legowo planting system in increasing paddy productivity and income of the farmers. Therefore, our research can be used by the government as a reference for future improvement of the implementation of Jajar Legowo cultivation system. Our findings show that the new cultivation system has a significant impact on increasing the productivity of wetland paddy. Without controlling for other variables affecting productivity, the estimation result pointed out that on average, the new cultivation system can increase productivity by about 10 per cent. However, after controlling for other variables (the farmers and other cultivations characteristics), the magnitude decreases to around 5 per cent. Moreover, our estimation results also show that the income of the farmers rises by around 12 per cent by implementing Jajar Legowo. Our study indicates that the implementation of Jajar Legowo planting system results in better efficiency than that of the conventional one.
Comparison of Regression Analysis with Machine Learning Supervised Predictive Model Techniques
Authors: Sihombing Pardomuan Robinson , Budiantono Sigit , Arsani Ade Marsinta , Aritonang Triana  Mauliasih , Kurniawan Mohamad Arif
Published: December 2023

The happiness index is a parameter used to measure the level of happiness and well-being of people in a particular country or region. This research aims to determine the factors that contribute to people's happiness. In terms of modelling, this study will compare several regressions modelling using machine learning, including regression trees, random forests and Support Vector Regression (SVR). The SVR model has a minor error value in terms of MSE, RMSE and MAE compared to the other three models. The same thing happened when viewed from the value of R2 that the SVR model has an enormous value. This result indicates that SVR modelling is the best of the four models. A comprehensive policy is needed to increase a country's happiness index.
Nedotykomka: o símbolo insólito em O diabo mesquinho, de Fiódor Sologub
Authors: Andrade Alysson Jorge Alves de , Silva Alba Valéria Niza
Published: December 2023

O movimento simbolista russo foi pautado na criação de sistemas de símbolos por parte de seus autores, a fim de criar e recriar sentidos em suas narrativas. O Símbolo Insólito é a significação de uma ideia com a utilização de elementos insólitos, sendo o símbolo um veículo universal e particular, e o insólito, aspectos da realidade que fogem da ‘normalidade’. Nesse sentido, este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar o modo de agir da figura de Nedotykomka, do romance O Diabo Mesquinho, como o símbolo insólito escolhido pelo autor, Fiódor Sologub, para representar e significar, por meio da instauração do real e da utilização de elementos do fantástico, a loucura e o mal que assola o personagem de Peredónov.
Inexorável Nostalgia: uma leitura sobre o estrangeiro no filme de Andriêi Tarkóvski
Authors: Bello Juliana da Silva
Published: December 2023

Este artigo procura evidenciar algumas dimensões que compreende a condição de estrangeiro a partir do protagonista da obra fílmica Nostalgia (1983), do cineasta russo Andriêi Tarkóvski. As reflexões partem, a princípio, da mesma circunstância vivida pelo diretor, principalmente durante a produção do filme, quando se ausentou da Rússia e viajou à Itália. Nesse sentido, a viagem é a ponte que localiza o personagem Andriêi Gortchakóv, cujo objetivo inicial do seu descolamento é gradualmente alterado diante do “novo mundo”. Essa experiência desencadeará, dentre outras emoções, um sentimento de nostalgia que o penitencia e, por sua vez, transforma sua vivência em profunda melancolia e incomunicabilidade. A chave de leitura apresentada percorrerá, sobretudo, estudos sobre o estrangeiro propostos nos textos de Machado e Pageaux (1988) e Julia Kristeva (1994).
El lenguaje cubofuturista. La lengua zaum en manifiestos, poemas y una antiópera
Authors: Brasca Érica
Published: December 2023

El presente trabajo se propone abordar el lenguaje de la vanguardia futurista rusa, en particular, del grupo cubofuturista “Guileia” (Гилея; Hylaea), al que se presentará sucintamente con el fin de contextualizar su producción. Se parte de la idea de que la búsqueda de lo nuevo alcanza su auge entre 1912 y 1913 en producciones literarias cuyo lenguaje fusiona imagen y sonoridad de la palabra, quitándole primacía al significado. De allí que las obras en lengua zaum privilegien, por un lado, el aspecto sonoro y musical y, por otro lado, el aspecto visual, la composición gráfica del libro y la puesta en página. Ambos aspectos dislocan el modo habitual de percibir una obra. En esta dirección, se analizarán tanto los manifiestos y textos programáticos de Guileia como algunos poemas y la obra Victoria sobre el Sol.