bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peningkatan Pemahaman Wartawan tentang Pancasila sebagai Sumber dari Segala Sumber Hukum Melalui Penyuluhan Hukum
Authors: Arafat Yasser , Fathurrahman Fathurrahman
Published: August 2023

Kedudukan Pancasila sebagai sumber dari segala sumber hukum berkonsekuensi bahwa setiap materi muatan peraturan perundang-undangan tidak boleh bertentangan dengan nilai-nilai yang terkandung dalam Pancasila. Begitu juga dengan kebijakan yang dibuat oleh pemerintah, sudah seharusnya selaras dengan nilai-nilai Pancasila. Di sisi lain, Pers sebagai pilar keempat demokrasi di samping legislatif, eksekutif, dan yudikatif memiliki fungsi kontrol atas setiap regulasi dan kebijakan yang dibuat. Berdasarkan diskusi awal dengan pengurus Persatuan Wartawan Indonesia (PWI) Kota Tarakan disimpulkan bahwa wartawan sebagai insan pers perlu mendapatkan pemahaman utuh mengenai realisasi dan operasionalisasi kedudukan Pancasila sebagai sumber dari segala sumber hukum. Oleh sebab itu, perlu dilakukan penyuluhan hukum kepada wartawan agar mereka mendapatkan pemahaman yang utuh mengenai realisasi dan operasionalisasi kedudukan Pancasila sebagai sumber dari segala sumber hukum. Kesimpulan yang dihasilkan dari penyuluhan hukum ini yakni PWI Kota Tarakan perlu merumuskan pedoman atau panduan evaluasi regulasi dan kebijakan yang berisi varibel dan indikator penilaian yang dirumuskan berdasarkan nilai-nilai Pancasila sehingga mereka dapat menjalankan peran kontrol sosialnya dalam mengawal perumusan kebijakan atau regulasi dengan menggunakan nilai-nilai Pancasila sebagai batu ujinya. The position of Pancasila as the source of all legal sources has the consequence that any material content of laws and regulations must not conflict with the values contained in Pancasila. Likewise, the policies made by the government should be in line with the values of Pancasila. On the other hand, the press as the fourth pillar of democracy in addition to the legislature, executive and judiciary has a control function over every regulation and policy that is made. Based on initial discussions with the management of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) of Tarakan City, it was concluded that journalists as members of the press need to gain a complete understanding of the realization and operationalization of the position of Pancasila as the source of all legal sources. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct legal counseling to journalists so that they get a complete understanding of the realization and operationalization of the position of Pancasila as the source of all sources of law. The conclusion resulting from this legal counseling is that the PWI of Tarakan City needs to formulate guidelines or guidelines for evaluating regulations and policies that contain variables and assessment indicators that are formulated based on the values of Pancasila so that they can carry out their social control role in overseeing the formulation of policies or regulations using these values. the value of Pancasila as the touchstone.
Optimization of Regional Revenues Through Tax Revenues Regulation
Authors: Nasution Mirza , Syaputra Muhammad Yusrizal Adi
Published: August 2023

This study aims to examine the Role and Function of the Agency for tax management and regional levy of North Sumatra Province in improving regional income. The research method used is normative legal research method with secondary data. Qualitative analysis is used to analyze problems. The results of the research obtained that Local Tax and Levy Management Agency plays an important role in the improvement of Locally-Generated Revenue North Sumatra through the receipt of Local Taxes. Regional Tax Receipts derived from Motor Vehicle Tax and Public Surface Water in North Sumatra are still low because that Local Tax And Levy Management Agency North Sumatra has not had a strategic policy that can support and improve the Locally-Generated Revenue of North Sumatra Province through Motor Vehicle Tax and Public Surface Water, a Limited number of human resources and low quality of human resources competencies in Local Tax And Levy Management Agency North Sumatra is one of the obstacle factors that Local Tax and Levy Management Agency does not run optimally.
Limboto Lake Band Land Rights Arrangements
Authors: Junus Nirwan , Mamu Karlin Zakaria
Published: August 2023

This paper aims to examine the regulation of land use by the Limboto Lake community. This study uses an empirical juridical approach. The study results show that the regulation of land rights, especially land along the banks, has been regulated by the government and local governments, starting from laws and regulations, regional regulations, and other decisions. The existence of laws and regulations has given legitimacy to the state, in this case, the government, regarding the control and utilization of the land on the banks of the lake because the state legally owns the land on Lake Limboto. However, the fact is that the land on the banks of the lake has changed its function to become a community settlement. , making it difficult to carry out an inventory of the surrounding population. In order to prevent mismanagement or management that is not based on the rule of law, it is necessary to have clear and accurate boundaries regarding the allotment of areas/zones for various interests so that there is no overlap between the government and the land agency, considering that some community lands already have land rights (land certificate). Thus, an alternative solution to save the lake is establishing a zoning system.
Hostile Takeover Law and the Challenges in Market for Corporate Control: A Comparative Analysis between Indonesia and the United Kingdom
Authors: Salim Yeselia , Prisandani Ulya Yasmine
Published: August 2023

The concept of hostile takeover is still unrecognized under Indonesian laws and regulations despite its importance in keeping the corporate board in check and corporate governance better implemented in a company. This article seeks to explore the extent of the current environment and regulation in Indonesia able in accommodating hostile takeover in relation to the market for corporate control in Indonesia by using hostile takeover as a mechanism to measure. A comparative analysis is then conducted with the United Kingdom United Kingdom as a country with an active market for corporate control, specifically with the methods employed to deal with hostile takeover.
Siri'na Pacce: a Form of Fulfilling Women's Rights through the Conduct of Responsible Fisheries
Authors: Yulia Yulia , Madiong Baso , Mustawa Mustawa , Renggong Ruslan , Zulkifli Zulkifli
Published: August 2023

Conservation of fish resources aims to protect fish species, maintain fish species diversity, protect ecosystems, and utilize fish resources in a sustainable manner. This study aims to analyze the legal protection of women's empowerment in the conservation of fish resources with the siri'na pacce philosophy of the Makasssar tribe. This study uses a qualitative approach, which is elaborated by using legal norms based on the provisions of international law and national law. The results of this study show that women's empowerment in the conservation of fish resources is protected by international and national laws, so that women in Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi, are entitled to legal protection from misbehavior. discriminatory on any basis, to empower instilling children and families' care in conserving fish resources with the Siri'Na Pacce philosophy of not doing Siri' Mappakasiri'siri' which can prevent someone from doing things that are  contrary to the law, norms that live in society, and other things that can harm humans and humanity itself, especially in the protection, utilization, and conservation of fish resources.
Shifting the Paradigm of the Indonesian Judicial System from The Influence of the Anglo-Saxon Judicial System
Authors: Wantu Fence M
Published: August 2023

The litigation process in court will run well if all the elements are carried out following their duties and functions. In addition, what is very important is the judicial system that applies. The objectives of this research are 1). To find out and analyze the paradigm of how judges think in the Indonesian justice system, which adheres to the Continental European justice system. 2). To find out and analyze the development of the Indonesian justice system, especially how judges think, which is currently influenced by the Anglo-Saxon system. This research method is normative, namely legal research that aims to find rules or norms. This research is also called library research. Results of discussion 1). that the paradigm of the way of thinking of judges in the Indonesian justice system, which adheres to the Continental European justice system, is more inclined to use statutory regulations as the basis for deciding cases. The principle adopted is the persuasive force precedent. 2). The development of the Indonesian justice system, especially the way of thinking of judges, is currently experiencing a shift, namely that it is no longer pure with the Continental European justice system but is starting to introduce what is the practice in the Anglo-Saxon justice system, for example, the practice of class action lawsuits which have been regulated in environmental laws.
From Discrimination to Integration: A History of Chinese Immigration in Canada
Authors: Sun Peng
Published: August 2023

"From Discrimination to Integration: A History of Chinese Immigration in Canada" provides a comprehensive account of Chinese immigrants' historical journey in Canada. The book examines push and pull factors driving migration, including economic conditions in China and opportunities in Canada. It highlights challenges like discrimination and anti-Chinese legislation while showcasing the resilience and contributions of Chinese immigrants. The era of exclusion, its repeal, and changing immigration policies shaping Chinese-Canadian communities are explored. The book discusses the development of Chinatowns, cultural preservation, and evolving identity. Key findings underscore the significance of cultural integration, mutual understanding, and valuing diverse contributions to Canada's multicultural fabric. This historical narrative sheds light on the profound impact of Chinese immigration on Canada's social, cultural, and political landscape.
Is No Employment Better Than Self-Employment? The Story of How Romania Managed To Create a Class of ‘Invisible’ and Forgotten Workers
Authors: Pop Luana Miruna
Published: August 2023

Romania has been, for the past decade, not only the country with the highest in-work poverty among the European member states, but - unlike most European member states - also a country with a steadily growing welfare polarization of the working force. The paper aims to explain why, after more than a decade of fine-tuning of labor market, fiscal and social policies, Romania still finds itself in this situation. Despite constant improvements over the past 12 years in the welfare indicators of the overall employed population, the gap between employees and self-employed widened. The paper documents the increasing differences in exposure to poverty and social exclusion between the two segments of the employed population and points out to the mix of factors responsible for this development. Unlike most of the European countries, where a certain gap between employees and non-employees is the result of the flexibilization of the labour market, thus of the increase in atypical and non-standard employment forms, in Romania this appears to be rather the result of a mix between a unique inherited structure of employment and an inadequate package of social and fiscal measures, which kept and further pushed self-employed into informality. Thus, contrary to other European countries, which face the problem of how to better protect workers in new forms of employment, Romania is still searching for a policy solution that would allow for both the existing self-employed to become ‘visible’ in a formal economy and the diversification of employment forms. Finally, the paper explores the possibilities to reverse the current trend.
After Arbeitsschutzkontrollgesetz. Strikes and Organic Intellectuals in the German Meat Industry
Authors: Ana Daniela , Voicu Ștefan
Published: August 2023

For decades, migrant workers with temporary and service contract work in the German meat industry have rarely been recruited by trade unions. The Arbeitsschutzkontrollgesetz (“Occupational Safety and Health Inspection Act”) law implemented in 2021 aimed to grant equal employment conditions to the majority of the workers in slaughterhouses, creating new avenues for trade unions to gain more members and organize industry-level negotiations for better wages and a collective agreement. This article explores the lessons we can draw from the series of strikes that accompanied the negotiations. By relying primarily on participant observation in the meat industry strikes and employing an actor-centred perspective on industrial relations, the paper reveals the role of shop-floor organic intellectuals in mobilizing and demobilizing workers. The analysis of the strikes shows that organic intellectuals can be instrumental in articulating the resistance of subaltern groups, but they can also be co-opted by dominant groups to manufacture consent.
E-Governance in Times of Uncertainty: Diaspora-Built Practices on Social Media During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jeflea Antonia
Published: August 2023

E-governance is essential for migrants to ease access to various administrative services in their home and destination countries. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed novel facets of inequality in the accessibility of these facilities, the lack of personnel during lockdowns being not the only impediment for foreigners. This paper aims to research the unequal access of the Romanian diaspora in Germany to digital solutions provided by authorities and the unprecedented circumstances that occurred during the medical emergency. The data analysis revealed how people built their e-governance networks on social media groups, providing alternative solutions to their issues and needs. Diaspora's relationships with governmental bodies are often priorly mediated via online communication in diasporic groups, where people ask for advice or present their approaches. Data collection has been done mainly on Facebook groups of Romanian migrants in Germany between 2020 and 2022. Methodologically wise, this research used digital field research to understand how people interact in these groups and what consequences could arise from their digital behaviour.
YIELD AND FERTILITY OF SODDY-PODZOLIC SOIL UNDER VARIOUS SYSTEMS OF FERTILIZATION OF HAYMAKING
Authors: Teberdiev Dalhat , Rodionova Anna , Zapivalov Sergey
Published: August 2023

Studies to determine the effectiveness of various intensification systems have shown that as a result of long-term use of agrophytocenosis without replanting, the composition of the grass stand is re-formed depending on the care systems and the mode of alienation of the overgrown mass. In the technogenic system without the use of fertilizers and against the background of PK and manure, a low-grass-forb herbage is formed with a predominance of grassroots grasses. The type of herbage desirable for haymaking is preserved when a complete mineral fertilizer is applied. At the same time, the yield increases from 3.2 t/ha of dry matter in the control (on average over the past 30 years) by 80–150%, depending on the level of intensification. Long-term use contributes to an increase in the accumulation of underground mass and the content of humus in the soil.
An Innovative Workshop Embedding Pathology Service Users into the Undergraduate Biomedical Science Curriculum
Authors: Bashir Amreen , Wilkins Kayleigh , Pallett Ross
Published: August 2023

The integration of pathology service users into the biomedical science curriculum has been driven by the refinement of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency. This study aimed to design and implement a novel and innovative service user event with a reflective assessment to enhance students’ knowledge and understanding of the impact of pathology laboratory results on the patient pathway. The 4-h workshop consisted of a series of service users. Patients discussed how pathology services had contributed to their diagnosis and treatment, while service providers—a Microbiology Consultant, a director of primary care, and the patient referral optimisation officer—discussed their roles and their interactions with pathology services. Post-event, students completed a 750-word reflective assessment, highlighting challenges experienced by service users and providing suggestions for improving the delivery of pathology services. In total, 57.5% of respondents (57/99) completed a post-reflection survey, which included open- and closed-ended questions. Quantitative analysis of the survey data revealed that over 87.7% of respondents had increased knowledge and understanding of the revised HCPC standards. Following the assessment, students reported a significant increase in their confidence with respect to reflective writing (p < 0.001), with over 90% of respondents agreeing that the reflective assessment had increased their knowledge and understanding of the limitations that may negatively impact service users and patient care. Moreover, respondents highlighted how advancements in point-of-care testing (POCT) and improvements in communication can improve patient experiences. Thematic analysis revealed that respondents agreed that embedding patients into the curriculum reinforced the importance of there being a patient behind every sample. Respondents reported that reflecting upon service user experiences enabled them to identify improvements to the delivery of pathology services while recognising the essential role that Biomedical Scientists play in the patient pathway. This successful workshop has created a platform encompassing a range of pathology service users in the undergraduate curriculum. We recommend that other accredited biomedical science programmes adopt and embed this innovative workshop and reflective assessment into their programmes to help them meet these standards relating to service users while fostering important transferable skills in their students.
Product safety aspects of plant molecular farming
Authors: Buyel J. F.
Published: August 2023

Plant molecular farming (PMF) has been promoted since the 1990s as a rapid, cost-effective and (most of all) safe alternative to the cultivation of bacteria or animal cells for the production of biopharmaceutical proteins. Numerous plant species have been investigated for the production of a broad range of protein-based drug candidates. The inherent safety of these products is frequently highlighted as an advantage of PMF because plant viruses do not replicate in humans and vice versa. However, a more nuanced analysis of this principle is required when considering other pathogens because toxic compounds pose a risk even in the absence of replication. Similarly, it is necessary to assess the risks associated with the host system (e.g., the presence of toxic secondary metabolites) and the production approach (e.g., transient expression based on bacterial infiltration substantially increases the endotoxin load). This review considers the most relevant host systems in terms of their toxicity profile, including the presence of secondary metabolites, and the risks arising from the persistence of these substances after downstream processing and product purification. Similarly, we discuss a range of plant pathogens and disease vectors that can influence product safety, for example, due to the release of toxins. The ability of downstream unit operations to remove contaminants and process-related toxic impurities such as endotoxins is also addressed. This overview of plant-based production, focusing on product safety aspects, provides recommendations that will allow stakeholders to choose the most appropriate strategies for process development.
RETRACTED: In vitro BSA-binding, antimicrobial, and antitumor activity against human cancer cell lines of two lanthanide (III) complexes
Authors: Obaid Rasha Fadhel , Alsaikhan Fahad , Tizkam Hussam H. , Alamir Hassan Thoulfikar A. , Jandari Jumaa Hamad , Waleed Ibrahem , Ahmad Irfan , Shnain Ali Mohammed , Asiri Mohmmed
Published: August 2023

The investigation involved examining the binding of two lanthanide complexes, specifically those containing Holmium (Ho) and Dysprosium (Dy), with a ligand called 1, 10-phenanthroline (phen), and bovine serum albumin (BSA). The evaluation was carried out utilizing fluorescence measurements, Förster theory, and docking studies. The findings indicated that both the Ho-complex and Dy-complex possessed a significant ability to quench the emission of the protein. Furthermore, the primary mechanism of interaction was identified as a static process. The Kb values indicate a strong tendency of these complexes for binding with BSA. The Kb values show the strangely high affinity of BSA to complexes and the following order for binding affinity: Ho-complex > Dy-complex. The thermodynamic parameters were found to be negative, affirming that the main forces driving the interaction between BSA and the lanthanide complexes are van der Waals engagement and hydrogen bonds. Additionally, the investigation included the examination of competition site markers, and molecular docking proposed that the engagement sites of the Ho-complex and Dy-complex with BSA were predominantly located in site 3 (specifically, subdomain IB). Moreover, the Ho-complex and Dy-complex were specifically chosen for their potential anticancer and antimicrobial properties. Consequently, these complexes could present promising prospects as novel candidates for anti-tumor and antibacterial applications.
Tropical peat surface oscillations are a function of peat condition at North Selangor peat swamp forest, Malaysia
Authors: Ledger Martha J. , Evans Chris D. , Large David J. , Evers Stephanie , Brown Chloe , Jovani-Sancho A. Jonay , Callaghan Nathan , Vane Christopher H. , Marshall Chris , Baskaran Abirami , Gan Jing Ye , Sowter Andrew , Morrison Keith , Sjögersten Sofie
Published: August 2023

Tropical peatland condition across southeast Asia is deteriorating as a result of conversion to agriculture and urban zones. Conversion begins by lowering the water table, which leads to peat decomposition, subsidence and increased risk of large-scale forest fires. Associated changes in mechanical peat properties impact the magnitude and timing of changes in peatland surface motion, making them a potential proxy for peatland condition. However, such a relationship is yet to be observed in a tropical peatland setting. This study aimed to establish whether patterns of tropical peatland surface motion were a function of peat condition at North Selangor Peat Swamp Forest in Selangor, Malaysia. Results showed that subsidence was greatest at fire-affected scrubland sites, whilst the lowest mean water table levels were found at smallholder oil palm sites. Peat condition and magnitude of tropical peat surface oscillation were significantly different between peat condition classes, whilst peat condition differed with depth. More degraded tropical peats with high bulk density throughout the peat profile due to high surface loading and low mean water table levels showed greater surface oscillation magnitudes. The dominant peat surface oscillation mechanisms present at all sites were compression and shrinkage from changes in water table level. Mean water table level and subsidence rate were related to surface oscillation magnitude. However further work towards measuring surface and within-water table range bulk densities and surface loading is required to better understand the controls on surface oscillation magnitudes.
Loggerhead turtle oceanic-neritic habitat shift reveals key foraging areas in the Western Indian Ocean
Authors: Monsinjon Jonathan R. , Laforge Antoine , Gaspar Philippe , Barat Anne , Bousquet Olivier , Ciccione Stéphane , Jean Claire , Ballorain Katia , Dalleau Mayeul , Coelho Rui , Bonhommeau Sylvain , Bourjea Jérôme
Published: August 2023

Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) use both oceanic and neritic habitats depending on their life stage, eventually undertaking an ontogenetic shift. Juveniles likely start foraging in a purely opportunistic manner and later seek resources more actively. In the Indian Ocean, it is still unclear where oceanic-stage individuals go, what they do, and importantly where they forage. Yet, such information is crucial to protect this endangered species from anthropogenic threats such as bycatch in fisheries. To address this, 67 individuals (66 late juveniles and one adult) bycaught in the open ocean were equipped with satellite tags and released in the Southwestern Indian Ocean between 2008 and 2021. Most individuals traveled to the Northwestern Indian Ocean where they used neritic habitats of the continental shelf (i.e., largely between 0 and 200-m depth). Using hidden Markov models, we identified three types of movements likely associated with traveling, wandering, and foraging behaviors. We found that the movement characteristics of these behaviors differ depending on turtles’ target destination and habitat (oceanic vs neritic), highlighting different strategies of habitat use among individuals of presumably the same life stage (late juveniles). The turtles that traveled to the Northwestern Indian Ocean encountered warmer waters (mean = 27.6°C, min. = 20.6°C, max. = 33.1°C) than their counterparts remaining in the Southern Hemisphere (mean = 22.5°C, min. = 14.6°C, max. = 29.7°C) but were found foraging at locations with comparable biomass of potential prey (mean = 2.5 g C m-2, min. = 0.5 g C m-2, max. = 10.4 g C m-2) once in the Northern Hemisphere. It remains obscure why these individuals undertook a trans-equatorial migration. Once in neritic habitats, the proportion of time spent traveling was considerably reduced (from 33% to 19%) and allocated to foraging instead. In light of this, it is very likely that the individuals migrated to the Northwestern Indian Ocean to undergo an oceanic-to-neritic ontogenetic shift. Our study sheds light on the behavioral ecology of loggerhead turtles and identifies important foraging areas in the Western Indian Ocean, with the top-three most densely used ones being the Gulf of Oman, the Central Somali Coast, and the Western Arabian Sea.
Indicators of clinical performance in monitoring soft tissue sarcoma management: a population-based perspective
Authors: Rugge Massimo , Buja Alessandra , Tropea Saveria , Girardi Giovanni , Cozzolino Claudia , Zorzi Manuel , Vecchiato Antonella , Stefano Antonella , Del Fiore Paolo , Brunello Antonella , Brazzale Alessandra , Sbaraglia Marta , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Baldo Vincenzo , Benini Patrizia , Bortolami Alberto , Rastrelli Marco , Dall'Olmo Luigi , Rossi Carlo Riccardo , Mocellin Simone
Published: August 2023

Background

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare malignancies which prognosis varies significantly by primary site, histological subtype, and tumor stage. Their low incidence, and the complexity of their clinico-pathological characteristics demand standardized, cancer-tailored diagnostics and therapies managed at high-volume, multidisciplinary care centers. This study evaluates the quality of STS management in north-east Italy (Veneto Region) through a list of ad hoc defined clinical indicators.

Methods

This population-based study concerns all incident cases of STS in 2018 (214 cases) recorded in the adult population censored by the Veneto’s regional Cancer Registry. Based on the international literature, a multidisciplinary working group of experts identified a set of indicators for monitoring the quality of diagnostic, therapeutic, and end-of-life clinical interventions. The quality of care was assessed by comparing the reference thresholds with the indicators’ values achieved in clinical practice.

Results

Diagnostic procedures showed poor adherence to the thresholds, with a low percentage of histological diagnoses validated by a second opinion. The indicators relating to the surgical treatment of superficial, small, low-grade STS, or of medium, high-grade STS of the head–neck, trunk, or limbs were consistent with the thresholds, while for intermediate, high-grade (large-sized, deep) and retroperitoneal STS they fell significantly below the thresholds.

Conclusion

A critical evaluation of the clinical indicators allowed to uncover the procedures needing corrective action. Monitoring clinical care indicators improves cancer care, confirms the importance of managing rare cancers at highly specialized, high-volume centers, and promotes the ethical sustainability of the healthcare system.
Pilot study on the influence of acute alcohol exposure on biophysical parameters of leukocytes
Authors: Shalchi-Amirkhiz Puya , Bensch Tristan , Proschmann Undine , Stock Ann-Kathrin , Ziemssen Tjalf , Akgün Katja
Published: August 2023

Objective: This pilot study explores the influence of acute alcohol exposure on cell mechanical properties of steady-state and activated leukocytes conducted with real-time deformability cytometry.

Methods: Nineteen healthy male volunteers were enrolled to investigate the effect of binge drinking on biophysical properties and cell counts of peripheral blood leukocytes. Each participant consumed an individualized amount of alcohol to achieve a blood alcohol concentration of 1.2 ‰ as a mean peak. In addition, we also incubated whole blood samples from healthy donors with various ethanol concentrations and performed stimulation experiments using lipopolysaccharide and CytoStim™ in the presence of ethanol.

Results: Our findings indicate that the biophysical properties of steady-state leukocytes are not significantly affected by a single episode of binge drinking within the first two hours. However, we observed significant alterations in relative cell counts and a shift toward a memory T cell phenotype. Moreover, exposure to ethanol during stimulation appears to inhibit the cytoskeleton reorganization of monocytes, as evidenced by a hindered increase in cell deformability.

Conclusion: Our observations indicate the promising potential of cell mechanical analysis in understanding the influence of ethanol on immune cell functions. Nevertheless, additional investigations in this field are warranted to validate biophysical properties as biomarkers or prognostic indicators for alcohol-related changes in the immune system.
Interpretable machine learning for predicting 28-day all-cause in-hospital mortality for hypertensive ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients in the ICU: a multi-center retrospective cohort study with internal and external cross-validation
Authors: Huang Jian , Chen Huaqiao , Deng Jiewen , Liu Xiaozhu , Shu Tingting , Yin Chengliang , Duan Minjie , Fu Li , Wang Kai , Zeng Song
Published: August 2023

Background

Timely and accurate outcome prediction plays a critical role in guiding clinical decisions for hypertensive ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients admitted to the ICU. However, interpreting and translating the predictive models into clinical applications are as important as the prediction itself. This study aimed to develop an interpretable machine learning (IML) model that accurately predicts 28-day all-cause mortality in hypertensive ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients.

Methods

A total of 4,274 hypertensive ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients admitted to the ICU in the USA from multicenter cohorts were included in this study to develop and validate the IML model. Five machine learning (ML) models were developed, including artificial neural network (ANN), gradient boosting machine (GBM), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), logistic regression (LR), and support vector machine (SVM), to predict mortality using the MIMIC-IV and eICU-CRD database in the USA. Feature selection was performed using the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) algorithm. Model performance was evaluated based on the area under the curve (AUC), accuracy, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). The ML model with the best predictive performance was selected for interpretability analysis. Finally, the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method was employed to evaluate the risk of all-cause in-hospital mortality among hypertensive ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients admitted to the ICU.

Results

The XGBoost model demonstrated the best predictive performance, with the AUC values of 0.822, 0.739, and 0.700 in the training, test, and external cohorts, respectively. The analysis of feature importance revealed that age, ethnicity, white blood cell (WBC), hyperlipidemia, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), glucose, pulse oximeter oxygen saturation (SpO2), serum calcium, red blood cell distribution width (RDW), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and bicarbonate were the 11 most important features. The SHAP plots were employed to interpret the XGBoost model.

Conclusions

The XGBoost model accurately predicted 28-day all-cause in-hospital mortality among hypertensive ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke patients admitted to the ICU. The SHAP method can provide explicit explanations of personalized risk prediction, which can aid physicians in understanding the model.
A deep learning framework for identifying Alzheimer's disease using fMRI-based brain network
Authors: Wang Ruofan , He Qiguang , Han Chunxiao , Wang Haodong , Shi Lianshuan , Che Yanqiu
Published: August 2023

Background

The convolutional neural network (CNN) is a mainstream deep learning (DL) algorithm, and it has gained great fame in solving problems from clinical examination and diagnosis, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). AD is a degenerative disease difficult to clinical diagnosis due to its unclear underlying pathological mechanism. Previous studies have primarily focused on investigating structural abnormalities in the brain's functional networks related to the AD or proposing different deep learning approaches for AD classification.

Objective

The aim of this study is to leverage the advantages of combining brain topological features extracted from functional network exploration and deep features extracted by the CNN. We establish a novel fMRI-based classification framework that utilizes Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) with the phase synchronization index (PSI) and 2D-CNN to detect abnormal brain functional connectivity in AD.

Methods

First, PSI was applied to construct the brain network by region of interest (ROI) signals obtained from data preprocessing stage, and eight topological features were extracted. Subsequently, the 2D-CNN was applied to the PSI matrix to explore the local and global patterns of the network connectivity by extracting eight deep features from the 2D-CNN convolutional layer.

Results

Finally, classification analysis was carried out on the combined PSI and 2D-CNN methods to recognize AD by using support vector machine (SVM) with 5-fold cross-validation strategy. It was found that the classification accuracy of combined method achieved 98.869%.

Conclusion

These findings show that our framework can adaptively combine the best brain network features to explore network synchronization, functional connections, and characterize brain functional abnormalities, which could effectively detect AD anomalies by the extracted features that may provide new insights into exploring the underlying pathogenesis of AD.
Severe gastrointestinal involvement in pediatric IgA vasculitis: a retrospective single-center cohort study in China
Authors: Li Yifan , Zhang Xiaomei , Liu Haimei , Li Guomin , Guan Wanzhen , Zhang Tao , Zeng Qiaoqian , Gong Yinv , Xu Hong , Sun Li
Published: August 2023

Objectives

The study aimed to describe the characteristics of gastrointestinal (GI) involvement in a cohort of hospitalized children with IgA vasculitis (IgAV) in China.

Method

We reviewed the records of hospitalized IgAV patients from January 2014 to December 2020 at one tertiary medical center. The patients were divided into the severe GI group and the non-severe GI group according to the presence of massive GI bleeding and complications. The clinical manifestations, laboratory factors, and treatment were analyzed between the two groups.

Results

A total of 1,179 patients were hospitalized due to IgAV. GI involvement was noted in 50% (589) of the patients, of whom 288 (48.9%) had severe GI involvement. GI complications were observed in 34 patients with IgAV with GI involvement. Rare onset age (<3 years or within 13–17 years), purpura above the waist, vomiting, high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and decreased serum albumin were factors associated with severe GI involvement. Frequencies of renal involvement and biopsy-proven nephritis were higher in the severe GI group. The most commonly used medications were corticosteroids (100.0%) in the severe GI group. The maximum corticosteroid dose was higher (2.9 vs. 2.0 mg/kg), and more second-line therapies were needed (30.9% vs. 16.94%) in the severe GI group.

Conclusions

Severe GI involvement in children is common in our center. Rare onset age, purpura above the waist, vomiting, high neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and decreased serum albumin are associated with severe GI involvement. Patients with severe GI involvement need higher doses of corticosteroids and second-line therapy.
Molecular epidemiology and phylogenetic analyses of human adenovirus in pediatric patients with acute respiratory infections from Hangzhou during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Huang Shuangshuang , Wang Hao , Li Lin , Xiang Wenqing , Song Zhijian , Li Wei
Published: August 2023

Background

Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Human Adenovirus (HAdV), responsible for 5%–10% of children's ARIs, is one of the most prevalent pathogens. Our study aimed to analyze the epidemiology and phylogenesis of HAdV in pediatric patients with ARIs in Hangzhou during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

Between November 2020 and March 2021, we collected 1,442 nasopharyngeal swabs from children with ARIs at Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. Epidemiological statistics, phylogenetic and amino acid (AA) mutation analysis were conducted.

Results

Our findings revealed that 386 (26.77%) samples tested positive for HAdV, with the highest rate in children aged 6–18 years and the lowest in children aged 0–1 year, indicating a different age preference of HAdV compared with pre-pandemic period. Outpatients had a significantly higher positive rate than inpatients. Moreover, patients with HAdV-coinfection exhibited more severe clinical symptoms than those with HAdV-single infection. Our phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that species HAdV-C (type 1, 2, 6) were the predominant circulating strains in Hangzhou during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further AA mutation analysis identified seventeen mutations of particular concern for biological characterization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study provides valuable epidemiological and molecular data that will aid in epidemiological surveillance, antiviral therapies and the development of specific vaccine types, leading to improve public health.
Structure and function: how to design integrated anatomy and physiology modules for the gross anatomy laboratory
Authors: Allison Sara , Mueller Caroline , Lackey-Cornelison Wendy
Published: August 2023

Physicians must be able to integrate knowledge across disciplines. Therefore, educators need to provide opportunities for students to cognitively integrate information across the medical school curriculum. Literature has shown that specifically pointing out these connections helps students create cause and effect models and ultimately improve their performance. The gross anatomy laboratory provides an excellent environment for students to integrate information by establishing structure and function relationships. This article presents simple steps to create modules which help students cognitively integrate physiology and anatomy at the session level in the gross anatomy laboratory. Driven by backward design, these steps include establishing objectives, creating assessments, and developing activities that can be implemented in a specific learning environment. An example of a flexible module which could be implemented in a number of gross anatomy lab settings (e.g., prosection, dissection, models, virtual) is presented along with a template for the design of future modules. This is followed by a discussion of challenges encountered by educators attempting to integrate structure and function in the gross anatomy lab. Each of these considerations will be addressed with potential solutions for educators seeking to implement these types of integrated activities.
Fusarium solani infection disrupts metabolism during the germination of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) seeds
Authors: Tahmasebi Aminallah , Roach Thomas , Shin Song Yub , Lee Chul Won
Published: August 2023

Fungal infections adversely influence the production and quality of seeds. Previously, Fusarium solani was reported as the causal agent of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) seed rot. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of F. solani infection on the germination, biochemical composition, energy reserves, and antioxidant activity of roselle seeds because there is currently a lack of information on the relationship between seed metabolism and infection with F. solani. The results showed that roselle seeds infected with F. solani exhibited a ca. 55% reduction in overall germination. Additionally, the fungal infection decreased antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, protein, sugar (sucrose, fructose, and glucose), and some amino acid (glutamine, serine, and arginine) contents. In contrast, some metabolites were more abundant in infected seeds, including alanine (2.1-fold) and some fatty acids (palmitic acid and heptadecanoic acid by 1.1- and 1.4-fold, respectively). The infection-associated changes in fatty acid profile resulted in the ratio of unsaturated/saturated fatty acids being 2.1-fold higher in infected seeds. Therefore, our results reveal that F. solani infection remarkably altered the biochemical composition of roselle seeds, which may have contributed to the loss of germination and quality of roselle seeds.
Effects of groundwater depth on ecological stoichiometric characteristics of assimilated branches and soil of two desert plants
Authors: Wu Xue , Wang Xueying , Wang Pengqi , Gu Yuanting , Li Yan
Published: August 2023

Groundwater plays a crucial role in regulating plant growth in arid regions and has significant effects on plant physiological mechanisms. However, research on the influence of groundwater change on plant ecological stoichiometry is still limited. Therefore, this study was carried out to obtain the variations in assimilated branches and soil ecological stoichiometry of two dominant species in the Gurbantunggut Desert (Haloxylon ammodendron and Haloxylon persicum) at different groundwater depths to reveal the responses of desert plants to groundwater depth changes. The results showed that (1) H. persicum branches’ stress tolerance indicators (C:N, C:P) are higher, while nutritional indicators (N:P) are lower. The soil nutrient of H. ammodendron is richer. (2) The ecological stoichiometry varied significantly along the groundwater gradient. With the deepening of groundwater, the branches C, N and P increased, and the variation in element ratio was inconsistent. Most of the soil properties was inversely proportional to the depth of groundwater. (3) Groundwater depth was a vital environmental factor affecting the assimilated branches ecological stoichiometry. Soil properties also had a significant influence on element accumulation in assimilated branches. (4) Regulating the allocation of branches ecological stoichiometry is an adaptation of two Haloxylon species to cope with local hydrological conditions changes. These findings provide novel insights into desert plant responses to different groundwater conditions within fragile desert ecosystems and may have implications for the implementation of effective measures related to the stability and sustainability of desert ecosystems.
The association of adverse reactions and depression in cervical cancer patients treated with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy: moderated mediation models
Authors: Ding Xiaoping , Zhang Yingying , Wang Jiaqing , Huang Ai , Liu Yilan , Han Yanhong , Hu Deying
Published: August 2023

Objective

Several studies reported that adverse reactions to treatment, neuroticism, marital relations, and quality of life may impact the development of depression in cervical cancer patients treated with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy, but the associations between them remained unclear. This study investigated the associations between these factors using moderated mediation models.

Methods

Data were extracted from a survey involving cervical cancer patients treated with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy at five tertiary hospitals in Hubei Province, China, from June to December 2022. The SPSS-PROCESS program was used to develop a moderated mediation model to study the roles of neuroticism, quality of life, and marital relations in the association between adverse reactions and depression in the study population.

Results

A total of 802 cervical cancer patients treated with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy (54.84 ± 9.68 years) were recruited. The prevalence of depression among these patients was 72.72%, with four symptom clusters of dizziness-ringing in the ears, digestive system-related symptoms, skin dryness and itching, and urinary frequency-urgency-leakage. Adverse reactions directly and positively affected the occurrence of depression, neuroticism mediated the association between adverse reactions and depression, while this association varied according to the quality of life and marital relations.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that depression is common among cervical cancer patients receiving radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Intervention targets for depression in cervical cancer patients should be precisely selected and targeted according to the quality of life and marital relations differences in patients, taking into account the cost of the intervention and the benefit to the patient.
A meta-analysis of the association between mindfulness and motivation
Authors: Li Li-ying , Meng Xue , Hu Wen-ting , Geng Jia-sen , Cheng Tian-hua , Luo Jia-cheng , Hu Ming-yu , Li Hai-yue , Wang Yi , Wang Yan-yu
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Mindfulness reflects attention to the present moment in a non-judgmental way and has been linked to individual autonomy and motivation, but conclusions are inconsistent. The purpose of this review was to summarize previous studies to explore the relationship between mindfulness and motivation and its intervention effects.

Methods

Literature searches were conducted in five electronic databases. Both correlational studies assessing the association between motivation and mindfulness and experimental studies to verify the effect of intervention were included.

Results

Six papers with seven intervention studies and twenty-three papers with twenty-seven correlational studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that mindfulness was positively correlated with intrinsic motivation (r = 0.28, p < 0.0001) and total motivation (r = 0.37, p < 0.0001) but had no significant correlation with extrinsic motivation (r = 0.01, p = 0.93) or amotivation (r = −0.17, p = 0.14). Effect-size estimates suggested that mindfulness intervention was beneficial to motivation promotion, but the effect was at a low level (g = 0.12).

Conclusion

We found consistent support for mindfulness practice relating to motivation promotion, especially on intrinsic motivation development. However, there was still a portion of heterogeneity that could not be explained and needed to be identified in future studies.