bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and efficacy of omaveloxolone v/s placebo for the treatment of Friedreich's ataxia in patients aged more than 16 years: a systematic review
Authors: Umrao Ankita , Pahuja Monika , Chatterjee Nabendu Sekhar
Published: December 2024

Background

Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a rare genetic disorder caused by silencing of the frataxin gene (FXN), which leads to multiorgan damage. Nrf2 is a regulator of FXN, which is a modulator of oxidative stress in animals and humans. Omaveloxolone (Omav) is an Nrf2 activator and has been reported to have antioxidative potential in various disease conditions. The present review was conducted to determine the use of Omav, the only FDA-approved treatment for FA.

Methods

Three electronic databases, Cochrane, PubMed and Google Scholar, were searched with terms such as ‘Omaveloxolone’, ‘Friedreich ataxia’, ‘genetic diseases’, ‘autosomal recessive’, and ‘rare disorders’ using various advanced search filters. Articles were screened, extracted, and assessed for quality, and a qualitative synthesis of the data was performed. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024531449).

Results

A total of 201 records were found, with very few published research articles on the topic. Only two randomized clinical trials published in a series of three research articles were included in the current systematic review. Peak load exercise and modified Friedreich’s Ataxia Rating Scale (mFARS) values were considered the major outcome measures for determining the efficacy of 150 mg Omav capsules/day in FA. Exploratory outcome measures, such as low-contrast letter visual acuity test, exercise test, T25-FW, 9-HPT, health-related quality of life, and biochemical tests, were also assessed along with adverse events in all the studies.

Conclusion

Although, the quality of the articles demonstrated low bias. However, the short duration, small sample size, and missing data, including the values of different measures of mFARS scores in patients, limit the generalizability of the results. Further studies with longer durations and in severe patients with foot deformities are needed to clearly define the efficacy of Omav in FA and to determine the optimal drug for FA patients in India.
VIPAS39 related arthrogryposis-renal dysfunction-cholestasis syndrome—case report and systematic review
Authors: Kafol Jan , Gnidovec Strazisar Barbara , Drole Torkar Ana , Homan Matjaz , Bertok Sara , Mlinaric Matej , Sikonja Jaka , Kovač Jernej , Perkovic Benedik Mirjana , Kersnik Levart Tanja , Zerjav Tansek Mojca , Praprotnik Marina , Battelino Tadej , Debeljak Maruša , Groselj Urh
Published: December 2024

Background

Arthrogryposis–renal dysfunction–cholestasis (ARC) syndrome, a rare autosomal recessive disorder, exhibits genetic heterogeneity with the VIPAS39 gene pathological variants being a distinct contributor.

Results

We present two related patients from Kosovo, describing the clinical, genetic, and therapeutic aspects of the syndrome. The identified novel VIPAS39 pathological variants (c.762G > A; c.1064_1082delinsAGTG) emphasize the complex phenotypic expression of ARC syndrome. A systematic literature review identified 8 VIPAS39-related ARC cases with notable variability in clinical features. Prognostically, patients fell into severe and milder groups, with some reaching adolescence. Our report aligns with others noting milder ARC courses and emphasizes the value of genetic testing, especially in atypical presentations. Challenges included incomplete literature data, early mortality affecting diagnostic workup, and limited VIPAS39-related ARC cases. Comparisons with the more prevalent VPS33B pathological variants revealed no distinct clinical differences.

Conclusion

Our study expands understanding of ARC syndrome, highlighting its genetic diversity and clinical variability. Milder presentations underscore diagnostic challenges and the potential prevalence of undiagnosed cases. Increased awareness and comprehensive genetic testing are crucial for early and accurate diagnosis.
Disrupting USP39 deubiquitinase function impairs the survival and migration of multiple myeloma cells through ZEB1 degradation
Authors: Sirera Jessy , Sarlak Saharnaz , Teisseire Manon , Carminati Alexandrine , Nicolini Victoria J. , Savy Coline , Brest Patrick , Juel Thierry , Bontoux Christophe , Deckert Marcel , Ohanna Mickael , Giuliano Sandy , Dufies Maeva , Pages Gilles , Luciano Frederic
Published: December 2024

Background

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy, characterized by the accumulation of monoclonal plasmocytes in the bone marrow. Despite advancements with proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory agents, and CD38-targeting antibodies, MM remains largely incurable due to resistant clones and frequent relapses. The success of the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ) in MM treatment highlights the critical role of the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) in this disease. Deubiquitinases (DUBs), which regulate protein stability, interactions, and localization by removing ubiquitin modifications, have emerged as promising therapeutic targets in various cancers, including MM.

Methods

Through a comprehensive loss-of-function screen, we identified USP39 as a critical survival factor for MM cells. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was employed to correlate USP39 mRNA levels with clinical outcomes in MM patients. USP39 protein expression was evaluated via immunohistochemistry (IHC) on bone marrow samples from MM patients and healthy controls. The impact of USP39 knockdown via SiRNA was assessed through in vitro assays measuring cellular metabolism, clonogenic capacity, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and sensitivity to BTZ. Co-immunoprecipitation and deubiquitination assays were conducted to elucidate the interaction and regulation of ZEB1 by USP39. Finally, in vitro and in vivo zebrafish experiments were used to characterize the biological consequences of ZEB1 regulation by USP39.

Results

Our study found that elevated USP39 mRNA levels are directly associated with shorter survival in MM patients. USP39 protein expression is significantly higher in MM patient plasmocytes compared to healthy individuals. USP39 knockdown inhibits clonogenic capacity, induces cell cycle arrest, triggers apoptosis, and overcomes BTZ resistance. Gain-of-function assays revealed that USP39 stabilizes the transcription factor ZEB1, enhancing the proliferation and the trans-migratory potential of MM cells.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the critical role of the deubiquitinase USP39, suggesting that the USP39/ZEB1 axis could serve as a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in MM.
Transcriptional induction of the IMD signaling pathway and associated antibacterial activity in the digestive tract of cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis)
Authors: Weber Katie , Karnik Dhruva , Brown Lisa D.
Published: December 2024

Background

Fleas are insect vectors that transmit several Gram-negative bacterial pathogens acquired by ingesting infected vertebrate blood. To combat foodborne illness, insect midgut epithelial cells are armed with efficient microbial recognition and control systems, such as the immune deficiency (IMD) pathway that regulates the expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). However, despite their medical and veterinary importance, relatively little is known about the IMD signaling pathway and production of AMPs in the digestive tract of cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis).

Methods

In the present study, we measured the expression of target genes comprising the IMD pathway, as well as corresponding AMP transcripts, in the digestive tract of C. felis following exposure to three different species of bacteria: Gram-negative Bartonella henselae (a flea-borne pathogen), Gram-negative Serratia marcescens (a model laboratory species), and Gram-positive Micrococcus luteus (a model laboratory species). Additionally, we examined the antibacterial activity of proteins isolated from the flea digestive tract in vitro following bacterial challenge and at different days post adult emergence to determine if feeding-induced antibacterial activity varies with age.

Results

In our analysis of C. felis, we observed an increase in the expression of representative IMD pathway genes and associated AMP transcripts, indicating the activation of the IMD pathway. Furthermore, our results revealed that different bacterial species elicit distinct transcriptional profiles of IMD pathway genes, suggesting a species-specific response to bacterial invasion. We found that the gut of C. felis produces antibacterial molecules as a localized defense mechanism. Additionally, we observed that proteins with antimicrobial properties are synthesized as part of local defense mechanisms in the gut, with differential patterns of antibacterial activity related to infection status and age.

Conclusions

Our findings provide essential insights into the potential mechanisms by which cat fleas regulate immune responses in their digestive tract against different bacterial species.

Graphical Abstract
Reducing DNA extraction costs through factorial design for the DNAdvance Kit
Authors: Neal Carson J. , Zbinden Zachery D. , Douglas Michael E. , Douglas Marlis R.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Extracting DNA is essential in wildlife genetic studies, and numerous methods are available. However, the process is costly and time-consuming for non-model organisms, including most wildlife species. Therefore, we optimized a cost-efficient protocol to extract DNA from the muscle tissue of White-tailed Deer using the DNAdvance kit (Beckman Coulter), a magnetic-bead-based approach. We devised a 3 × 3 factorial design using combinations of tissue mass (10 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg) and reaction volume (25%, 33%, and 50% of the manufacturer's recommended volumes). DNA was extracted for N = 81 tissue sub-samples (9 replicates/treatment).

Results

Our target yield was 500 ng of genomic DNA per sample, sufficient for population genetic assessments. A combination of 50 mg tissue and 25% reaction volume yielded enough DNA at the lowest cost. The factorial design revealed that varying tissue mass and reagent volume significantly affected extracted DNA yield. Our study demonstrates that sufficient DNA can be extracted at 75% lower costs than the manufacturer's standard protocol. Other researchers can directly use our modified DNAdvance protocol to perform cost-effective DNA extractions.
Dynamically triggered seismicity in Japan following the 2024 Mw7.5 Noto earthquake
Authors: An Like , Enescu Bogdan , Peng Zhigang , Miyazawa Masatoshi , Gonzalez-Huizar Hector , Ito Yoshihiro
Published: December 2024

On January 1st, 2024, a moment magnitude (Mw) 7.5 earthquake occurred on an active reverse fault in the northern part of Noto Peninsula, being one of the largest intraplate events recorded in Japan. In previous studies, the dynamic triggering of seismicity in Japan following some large remote earthquakes has been well documented, such as in the case of the 2011 Mw9.0 Tohoku–Oki earthquake, the 2016 Mw 7.1 Kumamoto earthquake, and other large teleseismic events. In this study, we investigate the remote triggering of microearthquakes by the 2024 Noto earthquake and their characteristics. We analyze waveform data recorded at high-sensitivity seismic stations in Japan, before and after the occurrence of the Noto mainshock. Local earthquakes are detected on high-pass filtered three-component seismograms. Low-pass filtered waveforms are used for visualizing the mainshock surface waves and estimating dynamic stresses. Our results show a relatively widespread activation of small earthquakes—none of them listed in the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) earthquake catalog—that were triggered by the passage of the mainshock surface waves in many regions of Japan. These include Hokkaido and Tohoku in northeastern Japan, Kanto in central Japan, and Kyushu in southern Japan. The triggering is mostly observed in volcanic regions, supporting the hypothesis that such places are relatively easy to be activated dynamically, likely due to the excitation of fluids by the passage of mainshock surface waves. The calculated dynamic stress changes estimated from peak ground velocities, which triggered the earthquakes after the Noto mainshock, are in the range 12.8–102.6 kPa. We also report potential, less well-constrained dynamic triggering by the Mw 5.3 Noto foreshock, which occurred ~ 4 min before the mainshock, at levels of stress about 100 times smaller. The analysis of a longer-term (1 month) seismicity pattern, based on the JMA catalog, revealed a statistically significant increase of seismicity in the remote Akita–Yakeyama (Tohoku region) volcanic area, following the Noto earthquake.

Graphical Abstract
Temporal changes in Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection across three areas of varying malaria transmission intensities in Uganda
Authors: Mwesigwa Alex , Kiwuwa Steven M. , Musinguzi Benson , Kawalya Hakiim , Katumba James Davis , Baguma Andrew , Mutuku Irene M. , Adebayo Ismail Abiola , Nsobya Samuel L. , Byakika-Kibwika Pauline , Kalyango Joan N. , Karamagi Charles , Nankabirwa Joaniter I.
Published: December 2024

Background

Malaria is a significant public health challenge in Uganda, with Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) responsible for most of malaria infections. The high genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection (MOI) associated with P. falciparum complicate treatment and prevention efforts. This study investigated temporal changes in P. falciparum genetic diversity and MOI across three sites with varying malaria transmission intensities. Understanding these changes is essential for informing effective malaria control strategies for the different malaria transmission settings.

Methods

A total of 220 P. falciparum-positive dried blood spot (DBS) filter paper samples from participants in a study conducted during 2011–2012 and 2015–2016 were analyzed. Genotyping utilized seven polymorphic markers: Poly-α, TA1, TA109, PfPK2, 2490, C2M34–313, and C3M69–383. Genetic diversity metrics, including the number of alleles and expected heterozygosity, were calculated using GENALEX and ARLEQUIN software. MOI was assessed by counting distinct genotypes. Multi-locus linkage disequilibrium (LD) and genetic differentiation were evaluated using the standardized index of association (IAS) and Wright's fixation index (FST), respectively. Statistical comparisons were made using the Kruskal–Wallis test, and temporal trends were analyzed using the Jonckheere–Terpstra test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

Of the 220 samples, 180 were successfully amplified. The majority of participants were males (50.6%) and children aged 5–11 years (46.7%). Genetic diversity remained high, with mean expected heterozygosity (He) showing a slight decrease over time (range: 0.73–0.82). Polyclonal infections exceeded 50% at all sites, and mean MOI ranged from 1.7 to 2.2, with a significant reduction in Tororo (from 2.2 to 2.0, p = 0.03). Linkage disequilibrium showed a slight increase, with Kanungu exhibiting the lowest IAS in 2011–2012 (0.0085) and Jinja the highest (0.0239) in 2015–2016. Overall genetic differentiation remained low, with slight increases in pairwise FST values over time, notably between Jinja and Tororo (from 0.0145 to 0.0353).

Conclusions

This study highlights the genetic diversity and MOI of P. falciparum in Uganda's malaria transmission settings, noting a slight decrease in both genetic diversity and MOI overtime. Continued surveillance and targeted control strategies are essential for monitoring the impact of malaria control efforts in Uganda.
First African case report of hypoparathyroidism, deafness and renal dysplasia (HDR) syndrome due to inverted duplication and deletion of chromosome 10p
Authors: Satekge Tumelo M. , Rikhotso Glenrose , Rossouw Bianca , Dillon Bronwyn , Baine-Savanhu Fiona
Published: December 2024

Background

Hypoparathyroidism, sensorineural deafness and renal disease (HDR) syndrome, also known as Barakat syndrome, is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder manifesting as a result of haploinsufficiency of the GATA3 gene. GATA3 is a member of zinc-finger transcription factors that are responsible for the embryonic development of key organs and structures including the parathyroid glands, auditory system and kidneys. Here, we report the first African case of HDR syndrome to be confirmed by chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA).

Case presentation

A 3-month-old female presented with focal seizures due to severe hypocalcaemia associated with low parathyroid hormone. The patient also had sensorineural hearing loss, global developmental delay and prominent dysmorphic features that included a tall, prominent forehead, long, curly eyelashes, a depressed nasal bridge as well as subtle skeletal abnormalities. The dysmorphic features, global developmental delay and hypoparathyroidism associated with persistent and severe hypocalcaemia led to the investigation by CMA which detected a 9.5 Mb heterozygous terminal loss of chromosome 10p15.3p14; GATA3 is included in this region. In addition, CMA detected a 4.4 Mb heterozygous interstitial gain of chromosome 10p14p13 indicating the presence of an inverted duplication and deletion of chromosome 10p. The patient was actively treated with IVI calcium gluconate, oral calcium carbonate and alfa cholecalciferol.

Conclusion

This case emphasizes that complex patients with developmental delay and multiple congenital anomalies are likely to benefit from evaluation by CMA. Indeed, this approach still has an important role to play, particularly in inadequately resourced settings such as in Africa, for the investigation of patients with complex genetic disorders associated with significant chromosome aberrations.
The role of audit committee characteristics in improving the risk disclosure of companies examining the moderating role of audit quality
Authors: El-Deeb Mohamed Samy , Alarabi Yomna , Mohamed Amal
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the association between audit committee characteristics (ACC) and risk disclosure (RD) of firms, focusing on the moderating effect of audit quality (AQ). The importance of RD to investors and stakeholders is that such a practice offers a better evaluation of the overall risk profile of companies. Based on agency theory complemented by the resource dependence theory, this paper therefore suggests that effective audit committees have an effect of reducing information asymmetry while increasing audit quality monitoring capacities and consequently enhance risk disclosure practices. In this respect, the literature sources were reviewed, and a hypothetical framework was developed to test the hypotheses. The sample selection comprises 54 companies with non-financial companies listed in the Egyptian Exchange Market, EGX100, for the period 2018 to 2021, which amounts to 216 observations. According to the results, ACC, such as size and financial expertise, are significant for RD, while ACC relating to meetings and independence are less important for RD. The study further established that AQ moderates the relationship between ACC and RD, implying that the significant influence of ACC is stronger when AQ is high. These inferences are of essence to policy makers and companies in understanding the implication of ACC on RD and the relation to high-quality audits in improving the effectiveness of audit committees. It underlines the importance of audit committees in giving assurance about transparency and accountability in financial reporting.
Loading Speed and Intensity in Eccentric Calf Training Impact Acute Changes in Achilles Tendon Thickness and Stiffness: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Pringels Lauren , Pieters Dries , Van Den Berghe Sarah , Witvrouw Erik , Burssens Arne , Vanden Bossche Luc , Wezenbeek Evi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Eccentric calf training for Achilles tendinopathy shows variable success in athletes. Recent insights suggest a role for tendon fluid flow (exudation or redistribution) during exercise, which explains post-exercise reductions in thickness and increases in stiffness of the tendon. This fluid flow is thought to be beneficial as it may promote tendon remodeling, reduce intratendinous pressure, and alleviate pain. In this perspective, slow, high-load exercises are promoted as they theoretically facilitate tendon fluid flow. However, evidence supporting this assumption is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether loading speed and intensity during eccentric calf training impact acute changes in midportion Achilles tendon thickness and stiffness, reflecting alterations in local tendon fluid content.

Methods

A randomized, assessor-blinded, crossover trial was conducted with 34 healthy athletes (17 men, 17 women, age: 23.7 ± 6 years). Participants underwent 3 single-leg eccentric heel-drop interventions with 20% additional bodyweight, varying in loading speed (fast: 1 s, slow: 3 s) and loading intensity (low: to plantigrade, high: to maximal dorsiflexion). Achilles tendon anteroposterior diameter (APD), cross-sectional area (CSA), and shear-wave velocity (SWV) were assessed in the midportion region using ultrasonography and shear-wave elastography pre-and immediately post-intervention.

Results

The slow, high-load intervention produced greater immediate reductions in tendon APD and CSA (8.7% and 10.1%), compared to the slow, low-load (4.0% and 4.7%) and fast, high-load (2.9% and 3.4%) interventions (p < 0.001). Moreover, only the slow, high-load intervention increased tendon SWV (52.4%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

These findings provide the first evidence that both loading speed and intensity during eccentric calf training impact acute changes in Achilles tendon thickness and stiffness, likely mediated by changes in fluid flow, which could be relevant for tendinopathy rehabilitation.
Whatever It Takes? The Impact of Conditional Policy Promises
Authors: Haddad Valentin , Moreira Alan , Muir Tyler
Published: December 2024

At the announcement of a new policy, agents form a view of state-contingent policy actions and impact. We develop a method to estimate this state-contingent perception and implement it for many asset-purchase interventions worldwide. Expectations of larger support in bad states—“policy puts”—explain a large fraction of the announcements' impact. For example, when the Fed introduced purchases of corporate bonds in March 2020, markets expected five times more price support had conditions worsened relative to the median scenario. Perceived promises of additional support in bad states alter asset prices, risk, and the response to future announcements. (JEL E52, E58, G12, G13, G14, G21, G28)
Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms among Multicultural Middle and High School Adolescents: A Longitudinal Study Using Latent Class Growth Model
Authors: Lee Sujin , Lee Soo Jin , Kim Hyanglan
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to identify latent classifications based on trajectories of change in depressive symptoms among multicultural adolescents in middle and high school and to identify factors that influence classification. Methods: This study used six time-point data from the Multicultural Adolescents Panel Study (MAPS) conducted by the National Youth Policy Institute (NYPI). We longitudinally analyzed data from 2014 to 2019, which corresponds to the participants' middle and high school years. Latent Growth Curve Modeling (LGCM) was used to analyze the depressive developmental trajectories of multicultural youth in middle and high school. Latent Class Growth Modeling (LCGM) was used to determine the number and shape of latent classes according to the type of depression among multicultural adolescents. We applied multinomial logistics regression analysis to explore the predictors of each class. Results: A model with three latent classes was identified: (1) low-decreasing class (intercept=13.34, slope=-0.07, 37.9%), (2) moderate-increasing class (intercept=17.76, slope=0.41, 47.6%), (3) high-increasing class (intercept=23.22, slope=0.44, 14.5%). Multinomial logistic regression showed multicultural adolescents who were male, experienced high acculturative stress and social withdrawal, and had low self-esteem, life satisfaction, and family support tended to belong to either the moderate-increasing or high-increasing class. Conclusion: These findings suggest that preliminary assessments of gender, acculturation stress, self-esteem, life satisfaction, social withdrawal, and family support among multicultural adolescents may be valuable for developing tailored mental health programs.
Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Melalui Inovasi Teknologi Penghasil Es Berbasis Energi Terbarukan sebagai Upaya Peningkatan Produktivitas dan Kualitas Ikan Hasil Tangkapan Nelayan Desa Bringsang, Madura
Authors: Priyadi Ardyono , Pujiantara Margo , Anam Sjamsjul
Published: December 2024

Pulau Madura, pulau yang memiliki jumlah desa lebih dari 900 desa yang secara administratif merupakan bagian dari Provinsi Jawa Timur. Desa-desa tersebut memiliki daya tarik tersendiri dengan aneka sumber daya yang dimilikinya. Salah satu desa yang perlu disoroti merupakan Desa Bringsang, desa yang terletak di Kecamatan Giligenting, Kabupaten Sumenep. Penduduk Desa Bringsang memiliki mata pencaharian sehari–hari yang menggantungkan pada sumber daya dan hasil laut. Profesi utama warga desa tersebut berada pada sektor perikanan yaitu nelayan. Dalam sektor sarana dan prasarana masih kurang memadai dalam produksi, penangkapan, serta distribusi hasil laut, menyebabkan ikan yang didapatkan nelayan hanya bisa diperjualbelikan di daerah terdekat dari desa tersebut. Penjualan yang tidak maksimal ini dikarenakan kurangnya persediaan es batu yang digunakan sebagai sarana pengawetan ikan. Salah satu inovasi yang dapat dilakukan adalah dengan pembuatan sistem alat berupa freezer yang dihubungkan dengan solar photovoltaic sebagai sumber energi. Sistem alat ini dilengkapi dengan baterai sebagai komponen penyimpan energi, Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), inverter, MCB, dan beberapa komponen listrik lainnya. Tujuan kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini bukan hanya untuk meningkatkan penjualan dan keuntungan nelayan, tetapi juga diharapkan memberikan dampak sosial dan edukasi dalam pemahaman masyarakat setempat mengenai transformasi energi.
Implementasi Mesin Perajang dan Pengaduk Sambal untuk Pengembangan UMKM Sambal Klotok Riandi Desa Karangbong Gedangan Sidoarjo
Authors: Fahruddin A'rasy , Hermawan Sigit , Hudi Lukman , Mulyadi Mulyadi
Published: December 2024

Kabupaten Sidoarjo sebagai salah satu daerah yang memiliki potensi besar di sektor perikanan, hal tersebut didasari dengan luas nya area pertambakan dan pesisir yang ada di Sidoarjo. Hasil tambak dan laut tersebut dapat diolah sehingga menjadi produk yang memiliki nilai jual tinggi. UMKM Sambal Klotok Riandi yang berlokasi di Desa Karangbong Gedangan Sidoarjo berhasil mengolah hasil tambak dan laut tersebut menjadi produk sambal yang dapat dijual dipasaran dan dapat disimpan dalam waktu yang cukup lama. Permasalahan yang dihadapi ialah belum adanya alat yang menunjang proses produksi dalam skala besar. Seperti halnya mesin perajang dengan kapasitas yang besar dan mesin pengaduk sambal selama proses pemasakan. Dalam kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini dilakukan suatu rancang bangun mesin yang dibutuhkan untuk menunjang UMKM Sambal Klotok Riandi agar dapat meningkatkan hasil produksi. Dilakukan juga demonstrasi alat dan pemberian mesin perajang dan pengaduk sambal kepada pelaku usaha. Dilakukan juga uji nilai gizi pada beberapa varian sambal, yang hasil ujinya dapat diletakkan pada bagian label produk. Dari hasil pelaksanaan sosialisasi dan pelatihan yang sudah dilakukan, pelaku UMKM dapat meningkatkan jumlah produksi serta proses menjadi lebih efisien dan tidak membutuhkan tenaga yang banyak.
Sinergi Koperasi Pondok Pesantren dalam Membangun Keberlanjutan Ekonomi melalui Kolaborasi Bisnis dan Manajemen Operasional
Authors: Prasetyawan Yudha , Suef Mokhammad , Nugroho Taufik Fajar , Sutikno Sutikno , Pratikno Herman , Yuwana Lila , Warnana Dwa Desa , Kusumaningrum Ajeng Wardhani , Rahmaningtyas Ivana , Naifah Sonia Ratnaduhita Nurani , Handaningtyas Inggrid , Wiscahyo Gelar , Putra Riyan Afnanda , Yani Beta Fitri , Nabila Debby Dea , Rashida Ailsa Dahayu
Published: December 2024

Program "One Pesantren One Product" (OPOP) bertujuan meningkatkan kesejahteraan pondok pesantren melalui pengembangan usaha berbasis ekonomi syariah. Masalah dihadapi dalam pelaksanaan program terkait keberlanjutan dan efisiensi yang belum teratasi, terutama dalam hal pemetaan bisnis yang komprehensif serta kurangnya kolaborasi antar pesantren. Pengabdian masyarakat ini hadir sebagai solusi melalui serangkaian pelatihan dan konsultasi yang berfokus pada manajemen bisnis, kolaborasi, serta pemetaan potensi usaha pada koperasi pondok pesantren (kopontren). Kegiatan dimulai dengan identifikasi masalah melalui Focus Group Discussion (FGD) untuk merumuskan kompetensi pengelola koperasi pondok pesantren dan survei potensi bisnis. Pelatihan intensif dilakukan untuk meningkatkan kompetensi manajemen dan operasional kopontren, diakhiri dengan sesi pitching ide bisnis. Hasil akhir dari pelatihan menunjukkan bahwa 86,17% peserta puas dengan materi yang disampaikan dan 85,8% peserta paham akan materi yang telah disampaikan dapat mencerminkan keberhasilan program ini dalam meningkatkan kapasitas pesantren. Dengan demikian, program ini diharapkan mampu menjadi model pemberdayaan ekonomi pesantren yang berkelanjutan dan berdaya saing, serta diharapkan dapat meningkatkan kemandirian ekonomi pesantren dan berpotensi diadaptasi di wilayah lain.
Pemasangan Listrik Baru dan Lampu Taman Otomatis di Pos PAUD Kasih Bunda Cemorokandang
Authors: Amalia Zakiyah , Khabib Achsanul , Machfuroh Talifatim , Rosady Siti Duratun Nasiqiati , Aini Fica Aida Nadhifatul , Farida Nike Nur , Rohman Fatkhur
Published: December 2024

Pos PAUD Kasih Bunda adalah salah satu Pos PAUD yang ada di Kota Malang. Lokasi Pos PAUD Kasih Bunda yang berada di sekitar kebun, kadang membuat guru merasa kurang nyaman karena banyak hewan liar yang berkeliaran di sekitar saat malam hari. Selain itu, sumber listrik Pos PAUD Kasih Bunda juga masih tergabung dengan Balai RW, sehingga menyulitkan pengelola Pos PAUD untuk mengatur biaya operasional dan tidak bisa mengajukan penurunan tarif dasar listriknya. Pemasangan lampu taman otomatis di depan sekolah dan di sudut-sudut taman sekolah yang masih gelap membuat guru merasa nyaman ketika perlu mengerjakan kegiatan yang menunjang pengembangan sekolah hingga larut malam. Lampu taman otomatis ini juga menyala mulai ketika intensitas cahaya rendah ketika sore hari tiba. Pemasangan listrik baru atas nama Pos PAUD Kasih Bunda sendiri juga mempermudah pengelola untuk mengatur biaya operasional. Listrik baru dan lampu taman otomatis telah berkerja dengan baik dan bekerja sesuai dengan yang diinginkan.
Pengabdian Masyarakat Penjadwalan Produksi Berbasis Dashboard Excel untuk Menghindari Overproduction dan Underproduction pada UMKM Ngelag Jus Kantin Teknik Industri
Authors: Putera Rizki Revianto , Suparno Suparno , Pujawan I Nyoman , Rusdiansyah Ahmad , Vanany Iwan , Arvitrida Niniet Indah , Hartanto Dody , Savitri Niken Anggraini
Published: December 2024

UMKM Ngelag yang menjual jus pada kantin Departemen Teknik Sistem dan Industri, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember menghadapi tantangan kesulitan menentukan jumlah produksi optimal setiap harinya, yang menyebabkan risiko overproduction (kelebihan produksi) dan underproduction (kekurangan produksi), yang dapat berdampak pada profitabilitas dan reputasi bisnis. Dalam mengatasi masalah ini, tim pengabdian masyarakat memberi usulan solusi pengembangan model optimasi berbasis data newsvendor yaitu berupa dashboard yang dirancang menggunakkan VBA (Visual Basic Application) Excel untuk menganalisis data historis penjualan, memprediksi permintaan, dan memberikan rekomendasi jumlah bahan baku yang harus dipesan. Metode dan tahapan kegitan dimulai dari pengumpulan data, analisis tren permintaan, hingga pengembangan dashboard yang menampilkan hasil optimasi secara visual. Berdasarkan analisis data penjualan UMKM Jus Kantin selama 30 hari, didapatkan rekomendasi proyeksi jumlah stok optimal dan harga untuk jus tidak terjual sehingga meningkatkan keuntungan hingga 1000% dari estimasi awal. Dengan visualisasi yang mudah dipahami. Dashboard ini nantinya akan memberikan rekomendasi kuantitas produksi untuk periode berikutnya, sesuai tujuan utamanya yakni memaksimalkan keuntungan sekaligus memastikan efisiensi operasional.
Running through life
Authors: Goodenough Cheryl
Published: December 2024

Cheryl Goodenough shares how to embrace wellness as a dental nurse.
New beginnings
Authors: Squires Rachael
Published: December 2024

Rachael Squires shares her journey back into dental nursing after having a baby.
Interprtative Lens of Segovia’s classical guitar transcription on Bach’s Chaconne from Partita No.2 in D Minor Bwv 1004
Authors: Djahwasi Herry , Sampurno Muchammad Bayu Tejo , Saidon Zaharul Lailiddin , Anggoro Raden Roro Maha Kalyana Mitta
Published: December 2024

The Bach’s Chaconne partita no.2 in d minor BWV 1004 is a monumental classic of the Western Canon. Defining the transcription of the Bach’s Chaconne from the original violin version to a classical guitar transcription depends mostly on reconciling Bach›s musical integrity with the artistic possibilities and constraints of the guitar. However, the process of music transcription is not limited to the mere transfer of notation from one instrument to another; it also encompasses the artistic, technical, and expressive contexts that surround the composition. This study examines how Segovia’s transcription techniques on Bach’s Chaconne BWV 1004 enhance the polyphonic texture, enrich harmonic development, and allow for expressive interpretation, all while navigating the constraints of the guitar. By comparing and contrasting Segovia›s version with the original violin piece, the research explores how these techniques contribute to the overall complexity and texture of the transcription. The findings suggest that Segovia’s transcription not only preserves the essence of Bach’s composition but also expands the repertoire available for classical guitar, offering insights into the creative process of transcription. This analysis provides a deeper understanding of how Bach’s music can be faithfully performed across different instruments, supporting the notion that the core of Bach›s compositions transcends the specific instrument, thus guiding arrangers and musicians in producing transcriptions that honour the original work.
Un estudio de validez y fiabilidad de un cuestionario de autoinforme sobre la autorregulación del aprendizaje
Authors: Lazo de la Vega Ramos Katherine Silvia , Saavedra Parisaca Leyla Stefani , Chancolla Molleapaza Olga Luisa , Ramos Lovón Wilber Roberto
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN. La importancia de medir la autorregulación del aprendizaje (ARA) en la educación primaria se ha incrementado a un nivel considerable, debido al mayor aprovechamiento de la modalidad virtual desde la crisis pandémica, en donde se observa al estudiante con un papel más activo en su proceso de aprendizaje a través de la aplicación de varias estrategias durante el desarrollo de una tarea. OBJETIVO. El presente estudio tiene por objetivo validar un cuestionario de autorregulación del aprendizaje para niños del 3.° al 6.° de Educación Básica Regular del nivel Primario. MÉTODO. A partir de la selección de cuatro instrumentos existentesen la literatura (SRQ-A, CP-SRLI, OSLQ y MSLQ). Posteriormente, se realizó la elección y adaptación de estrategias motivacionales, cognitivas, metacognitivas y de gestión de recursos, conbase en criterios como; su relación con el rendimiento académico y entornos educativos virtuales en el nivel primario. Finalmente, se aprobó la estructura psicométrica del instrumento medianteun análisis factorial confirmatorio desarrollado sobre una muestra total de 486 estudiantes entre 8 y 13 años de edad en escuelas públicas de la provincia de Arequipa (Perú). RESULTADOS. El cuestionario final consta de 31 ítems para evaluar 4 dimensiones de ARA: autorregulación motivacional, estrategias metacognitivas, gestión de recursos y estrategias cognitivas. Los resultados según el coeficiente Omega señalan alta confiabilidad en el instrumentoa excepción de la cuarta dimensión (gestión de recursos). DISCUSIÓN. Estos resultados podrían sugerir un análisis más reflexivo del entorno actual de aprendizaje en relación con la comunicación docente-estudiante y los recursos virtuales con los que se cuenta en el nivel primario, para señalar mejor el nivel de autorregulación con respecto a la dimensión de recursos.
Design of silicon traveling-wave Mach-Zehnder modulators with transparent electrodes
Authors: Yu Zhiguo , Tu Donghe , Guan Huan , Tian Lifei , Jiang Lei , Li Zhiyong
Published: December 2024

High-speed silicon traveling-wave Mach-Zehnder modulators (MZMs) are key components to support optical fiber communication. However, one major challenge with all-silicon MZMs is to achieve efficient high-speed electro-optic (EO) modulation. The reported 3 dB bandwidth of silicon MZMs are generally below 70 GHz, with half-wave voltage (V
π
) around 5 V or larger, which can not support future 200 Gbaud data transmission. Here we break the voltage–bandwidth trade-off limit in silicon MZMs by replacing the doped silicon slab with CMOS compatible transparent electrodes. Benefit from the measured high conductivity, low extinction coefficient, and low refractive index of indium tin oxide (ITO) materials, the microwave dielectric loss of the traveling wave electrode can be greatly reduced. The bandwidth would potentially increase from 40 GHz to 168 GHz, while V
π
and optical insertion loss remains almost unchanged. According to Si/ITO interface contact states, three operating mode were found, corresponding to Si/ITO ohmic contact, schottky contact and hybrid schottky/ohmic contact, respectively. We comprehensively analysis the Si/ITO interface characteristic, establish a complete high frequency equivalent circuit model. Our proposed transparent electrodes will open a new window for the high-speed silicon photonics platform.
Ultrathin and flexible broadband metamaterial absorber for Ka-band applications
Authors: Zhu Jian-Fei , Sheng Yi-Wei , Gao Guo-Liang , Shi Min-Chao , Ruan Jiu-Fu , Deng Guang-Sheng , Yin Zhi-Ping
Published: December 2024

This paper presents an ultrathin and flexible metamaterial absorber (MA) for Ka-band applications. The MA with a five-layer structure is composed of three copper layers separated by two FR4 dielectric layers. Due to the use of ultrathin but robust FR4, the thickness of the proposed MA is only 0.35 mm corresponding to 0.035λ at the operating frequency range. The MA can achieve absorptivity of over 95% in the frequency band of 30-36 GHz. The investigation of electric field distribution is used to interpret the absorption mechanism. Additionally, the MA exhibits excellent polarization and angular stability. A prototype of the proposed MA was fabricated using PCB technology. The measured results of absorption performance agree well with the simulated ones, thereby demonstrating the validity of the design. More importantly, the absorption performance of the flexible MA in bent states is examined, proving the feasibility of the MA for conformal applications. This work provides a good candidate for electromagnetic (EM) shielding at Ka-band.
Using genomic data and machine learning to predict antibiotic resistance: A tutorial paper
Authors: Orcales Faye , Moctezuma Tan Lucy , Johnson-Hagler Meris , Suntay John Matthew , Ali Jameel , Recto Kristiene , Glenn Phelan , Pennings Pleuni
Published: December 2024

Antibiotic resistance is a global public health concern. Bacteria have evolved resistance to most antibiotics, which means that for any given bacterial infection, the bacteria may be resistant to one or several antibiotics. It has been suggested that genomic sequencing and machine learning (ML) could make resistance testing more accurate and cost-effective. Given that ML is likely to become an ever more important tool in medicine, we believe that it is important for pre-health students and others in the life sciences to learn to use ML tools. This paper provides a step-by-step tutorial to train 4 different ML models (logistic regression, random forests, extreme gradient-boosted trees, and neural networks) to predict drug resistance for Escherichia coli isolates and to evaluate their performance using different metrics and cross-validation techniques. We also guide the user in how to load and prepare the data used for the ML models. The tutorial is accessible to beginners and does not require any software to be installed as it is based on Google Colab notebooks and provides a basic understanding of the different ML models. The tutorial can be used in undergraduate and graduate classes for students in Biology, Public Health, Computer Science, or related fields.
Marked point process variational autoencoder with applications to unsorted spiking activities
Authors: Shibue Ryohei , Iwata Tomoharu
Published: December 2024

Spike train modeling across large neural populations is a powerful tool for understanding how neurons code information in a coordinated manner. Recent studies have employed marked point processes in neural population modeling. The marked point process is a stochastic process that generates a sequence of events with marks. Spike train models based on such processes use the waveform features of spikes as marks and express the generative structure of the unsorted spikes without applying spike sorting. In such modeling, the goal is to estimate the joint mark intensity that describes how observed covariates or hidden states (e.g., animal behaviors, animal internal states, and experimental conditions) influence unsorted spikes. A major issue with this approach is that existing joint mark intensity models are not designed to capture high-dimensional and highly nonlinear observations. To address this limitation, we propose a new joint mark intensity model based on a variational autoencoder, capable of representing the dependency structure of unsorted spikes on observed covariates or hidden states in a data-driven manner. Our model defines the joint mark intensity as a latent variable model, where a neural network decoder transforms a shared latent variable into states and marks. With our model, we derive a new log-likelihood lower bound by exploiting the variational evidence lower bound and upper bound (e.g., the χ upper bound) and use this new lower bound for parameter estimation. To demonstrate the strength of this approach, we integrate our model into a state space model with a nonlinear embedding to capture the hidden state dynamics underlying the observed covariates and unsorted spikes. This enables us to reconstruct covariates from unsorted spikes, known as neural decoding. Our model achieves superior performance in prediction and decoding tasks for synthetic data and the spiking activities of place cells.
BharatSim: An agent-based modelling framework for India
Authors: Cherian Philip , Kshirsagar Jayanta , Neekhra Bhavesh , Deshkar Gaurav , Hayatnagarkar Harshal , Kapoor Kshitij , Kaski Chandrakant , Kathar Ganesh , Khandekar Swapnil , Mookherjee Saurabh , Ninawe Praveen , Noronha Riz Fernando , Ranka Pranjal , Sinha Vaibhhav , Vinod Tina , Yadav Chhaya , Gupta Debayan , Menon Gautam I.
Published: December 2024

BharatSim is an open-source agent-based modelling framework for the Indian population. It can simulate populations at multiple scales, from small communities to states. BharatSim uses a synthetic population created by applying statistical methods and machine learning algorithms to survey data from multiple sources, including the Census of India, the India Human Development Survey, the National Sample Survey, and the Gridded Population of the World. This synthetic population defines individual agents with multiple attributes, among them age, gender, home and work locations, pre-existing health conditions, and socio-economic and employment status. BharatSim’s domain-specific language provides a framework for the simulation of diverse models. Its computational core, coded in Scala, supports simulations of a large number of individual agents, up to 50 million. Here, we describe the design and implementation of BharatSim, using it to address three questions motivated by the COVID-19 pandemic in India: (i) When can schools be safely reopened given specified levels of hybrid immunity?, (ii) How do new variants alter disease dynamics in the background of prior infections and vaccinations? and (iii) How can the effects of varied non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) be quantified for a model Indian city? Through its India-specific synthetic population, BharatSim allows disease modellers to address questions unique to this country. It should also find use in the computational social sciences, potentially providing new insights into emergent patterns in social behaviour.
Protocol to implement and evaluate a culturally secure, strength-based, equine-assisted learning program, "Yawardani Jan-ga" (horses helping), to support the social and emotional wellbeing of Australian aboriginal children and young people
Authors: Coffin Juli , Vaz Sharmila , Kickett-Tucker Cheryl , Milroy Helen , Olsson Craig , Kirby Meg , Nelson Lesley , McPhee Rob , Cross Donna
Published: December 2024

Australian Aboriginal people experience stressors from inequalities across crucial social determinants, including deep and entrenched disadvantage and exclusion. The impact of unaddressed historical issues is pervasive and intergenerational. The disproportionate rates of Aboriginal youth suicide, juvenile detention and imprisonment highlight the inadequacy of existing social and emotional wellbeing programs and services for Aboriginal children and young people. There is increasing recognition in Australia that aligning social and emotional wellbeing interventions with Western values and conceptions of mental health is one of the main barriers to service uptake among Aboriginal people. This suggests fundamental questions remain unanswered about what type of services effectively address the complex constellation of social-emotional and wellbeing challenges arising from intergenerational poverty and trauma. Yawardani Jan-ga is an Aboriginal-led, operated, culturally secure, Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) project designed by and with local Aboriginal young people, community Elders, members, and experts to address the complex constellation of social-emotional, spiritual and wellbeing needs of Aboriginal children and young people, aged 6–26 years, across multiple communities in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. EAL is a strengths-based learning approach where participants work with horses’ inherent characteristics to learn transferable life skills, such as communication skills, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, to promote social and emotional growth and wellbeing. Although EAL has been previously used with Aboriginal children and young people internationally, they are yet to be widely used with Aboriginal people in Australia. Here, we describe the three subcomponents of the Yawardani Jan-ga implementation science project and the planned Participatory Action Research and phenomenological approaches to capture the distinctive experiences of participants and the local communities where the intervention is implemented. We anticipate that findings will build an evidence base that informs policy and practice by understanding key intervention elements of social and emotional wellbeing support for Aboriginal youth, how to incorporate Aboriginal worldviews across different stages of interventions, and how to capture impact best using culturally secure methods.