bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF VIRGIN COCONUT OIL SUPPLEMENTATION ON AFB SPUTUM CONVERSION RATE, SOD, AND BMI LEVELS IN PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS PATIENTS
Authors: Muhammad Ajib Nuzula  , Mohamad Isa  , Juhairina  , Haryati  , Isa Ansori  , Erna Kusumawardhani
Published: July 2024

Highlights
1. VCO can accelerate AFB sputum conversion in tuberculosis infection.
2. VCO can decrease SOD levels as a marker of inflammation.
 
Abstract
Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis has the potential to raise illness and death rates on a global scale significantly. A low sputum conversion rate for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) and malnutrition are indicators of failure in pulmonary TB treatment. Virgin coconut oil (VCO) contains lauric acid and has antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of VCO supplementation on sputum AFB conversion rates, superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, and body mass index (BMI) status of pulmonary TB patients. Material and Methods: This study was an analytic experimental study measuring BMI levels and SOD levels at the Pekauman Community Health Center, Sultan Suriansyah Hospital, and Ulin Hospital, Banjarmasin, Indonesia, between July and September 2023. This study, 40 samples were separated into two groups: the treatment group, which received first-line antithyroid drugs (ATD) with VCO, and the control group, which received first-line ATD and a placebo. Results: Based on the proportion, there was an improvement in the acceleration of BTA sputum conversion, and from the mean BMI and the median value of both groups, there was a decrease in SOD levels after VCO administration. No statistically significant association was found between VCO administration and accelerating the AFB sputum conversion and BMI at the end of the fourth and eighth weeks (p>0.05). Additionally, there was no relationship considered between VCO administration and reducing SOD levels before and after treatment (p>0.05). Conclusion: VCO administration had no relationship with the level of AFB sputum conversion, reduction in SOD levels, and BMI status in pulmonary TB patients.
FEATURES OF THE CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF AUTOIMMUNE OPTIC NEUROPATHY IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS ON CORTICOSTEROID THERAPY
Authors: Dalia Sharliz Raihana  , Lukisiari Agustini  , Deasy Fetarayani
Published: July 2024

Highlights

Intravenous corticosteroid treatment followed by oral clinical treatment can reduce the incidence of post-treatment optic neuritis recurrenc
Visual acquisition increases at one-month post-treatment.

 
Abstract
Background: The clinical picture of autoimmune optic neuropathy, known as neuritis, is strongly influenced by the unique structure of the human anterior visual pathway. The central nervous system autoimmune is related to multiple sclerosis (MS). Optic neuropathy is an injury that frequently results in acute inflammatory damage. Objective: This study aimed to determine the clinical manifestations of autoimmune optic neuropathy in multiple sclerosis and identify diseases with appropriate corticosteroid therapy using systematic review methods. Material and Method: This study used a systematic review method to analyze topic-related kinds of literature on  Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. The literature screening process was carried out based on the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Result: Regarding the post-treatment recurrence rate of optic neuritis, the use of intravenous corticosteroids alone and intravenous corticosteroid followed by oral administration may clinically reduce the incidence of recurrence in the patients compared those receiving placebo and oral administration. This suggests that intravenous corticosteroid followed by oral corticosteroid treatment is effective in helping to reduce the incidence of recurring optic neuritis. Conclusion: Intravenous corticosteroid treatment followed by oral administration may clinically reduce the incidence of post-treatment recurrence of optic neuritis in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
DEPLETION OF LYSYL OXIDASE-LIKE 4 (LOXL4) ATTENUATES COLONY FORMATION IN VITRO AND COLLAGEN DEPOSITION IN VIVO BREAST CANCER MODEL
Authors: Ni Luh Gede Yoni Komalasari  , I Gde Haryo Ganesha  , I Gusti Nyoman Sri Wiryawan  , Nahoko Tomonobu  , Masakiyo Sakaguchi
Published: July 2024

Highlights

Revealing LOX family members' mechanisms in promoting invasive breast cancer progression is essential for targeting specific molecules in invasive breast cancer.
Depletion of LOXL4 in invasive breast cancer shows attenuation of cell invasiveness in vitro and collagen deposition in tumor models in vivo.

 
Abstract
Background:  Lysyl oxidase (LOX) family proteins have recently become a topic in cancer progression. Our recent study found a high expression of LOX-like 4 (LOXL4) in MDA-MB-231 cells. Objective:  To reveal the impact of depleted LOXL4 in both in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models from a histological perspective. Material and Method: Endogenous LOXL4 was depleted using the CRISPR/Cas9 on MDA-MB-231 parental cells. Based on the LOXL4 protein expression, the clone was determined for the next experiment, thus generating MDA-MB-231 LOXL4 KO. Cell assay was conducted using colony formation assay (n=3) followed by crystal violet staining. The indicated cells were inoculated orthotopically to female BALB/c nude mice (n=5). At the end of the experiment, tumors were isolated, fixed, and prepared for Masson Trichrome staining. Result:  CRISPR/Cas9 completely depleted LOXL4 expression on clone number #2-22. Depletion of LOXL4 reduced the colony size formed by MDA-MB-231 cells. MDA-MB-231 LOXL4 KO #2-22 derived tumors showed depressed tumor volume compared to the parental group. Reduced collagen was also observed from the Masson Trichrome staining (p<0.001). Conclusion: Depletion of LOXL4 downregulates the growth of MDA-MB-231 cells in vitro and collagen deposition in vivo.
DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS AND ABO BLOOD GROUP GENOTYPES DISTRIBUTION AMONG SICKLE CELL ANEMIA PATIENTS IN BIRNIN KEBBI, NORTHWESTERN NIGERIA
Authors: Tajudeen Olanrewaju Yahaya  , Asiya Koko Attahiru  , Abdulgafar Bala Ibrahim  , Mutiyat Kehinde Adewale  , Adamu Zainab Fari  , Abdullahi Saadatu
Published: July 2024

Highlights

Sickle cell anemia affects both males and females in Birnin Kebbi and is predominant among children between 1 to 10 years of age.
It is also more prevalent but less severe among individuals with O- and A+ ABO blood groups in the city.

 
Abstract
Background: Demographic information and ABO blood group genotypes have been shown by studies to be useful tools in the management of sickle cell anemia. Regrettably, there is a dearth of literature on this information in Birnin Kebbi, northwestern Nigeria. Objective: This study determined demographic characteristics, ABO blood group genotypes, and sickle cell genotypes of sickle cell anemia patients in Birnin Kebbi. Material and Method: A structured checklist was used to collect data from the medical records of 99 patients who attended the Federal Medical Center in the city between November 2022 to November 2023. Result: The results revealed that most of the patients fell within the 1 to 10 years age group, comprising 44 individuals (44.4%), and the 11 to 20 years age group, comprising 33 individuals (33.3%). Of the patients, 48 (48.5%) were males, while 51 (51.5%) were females. Patients with ABO blood genotype O- (33.3%) and A+ (18.0%) were the most prevalent and least severely affected, while blood groups O+ (3%) and AB- (6%) were the least prevalent and most severely affected. Two variants of sickle cells (HbSS and HbSC) were identified, with HbSS (92.9%) being the most prevalent. Conclusion: Based on these findings, efforts should be made to ensure an ample blood supply with groups O-, A, and AB+ in blood banks. Moreover, studies have shown ABO blood groups to influence responses to diets, so precision medicine tailored to individual patients' blood groups is recommended. Individuals with O+ and AB- -blood groups should be given special attention, as they exhibit the severe form of the disease.
DOES THE NIAS TRIBE'S HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE CORRELATE WITH BODY HEIGHT?
Authors: Windy Juwita Lumbanraja  , Saharnauli Janna Verawaty Simorangkir  , Joseph Partogi Sibarani
Published: July 2024

Highlights

A significant correlation was found between head circumference and height among Nias tribe students.
This study was conducted to obtain formulations on weight determination based on headbands in the Nias tribe.

 
Abstract
Background:  Anthropometric measures are one of the protocols frequently employed to identify deceased bodies. Height, age, and gender are a few anthropometric traits that might be utilized to identify the victim from the corpse. If body components are absent, head circumference can be used to determine body height. Objective: The goal of the study was to ascertain whether there is a correlation between head circumference and body height by gender and to create formulas for estimating weight based on head circumference in the Nias tribe at the University of HKBP Nommensen Medan, Indonesia. Material and Method: The study was conducted from September to October 2023 at the University of HKBP Nommensen using an observational cross-sectional design. Of the 100 students who met the inclusion criteria, 50 were men, and the remaining 50 were women. The study's dependent variable was micro-toise-measured height. The head circumference, expressed in meters of tape, served as the study variable. Result: Statistical analysis of the study results from a significant correlation between the head circumference and the height (r = 0.655, p<0.01). The linear regression equation obtained was y = 3200 x - 2.672 in men and y = 10970 + 2.728 times in women, where y was height and x was head circumference. Conclusion: A substantial height-head circumference association was found among the Nias tribe at the University of HKBP Nommensen Medan, Indonesia. The identification method of the forensic field may benefit from this research.
ANALISIS KLASIFIKASI SUB DAS MANDIANGIN BESERTA UPAYA PENGELOLAANNYA DALAM KAWASAN HUTAN DENGAN TUJUAN KHUSUS UNIVERSITAS LAMBUNG MANGKURAT
Authors: Suryanto Edi , Suyanto Suyanto , Kadir Syarifuddin
Published: July 2024

Salah satu DAS Prioritas untuk dilakukan perbaikan kinerja manajemennya yaitu DAS Barito. Pada kawasan SUB DAS Mandiangin sendiri memiliki banyak aktivitas penggunaaan lahan didalamnya. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu menganalisis komponen daya dukung, klasifikasi, dan menentukan upaya pengelolaan sumber daya alam dan lingkungan yang sesuai dengan klasifikasi DAS dalam KHDTK ULM. Penelitian ini menggunakan deskriptif kuantitatif, dengan pembobotan kelima komponen utama dalam klasifikasi DAS. Hasil menunjukkan tingkat pemulihan tanah (persentase tanah kritis tinggi, tutupan vegetasi rendah, indeks erosi tinggi), tata air (rendahnya koefisien rejim aliran, tingginya koefisien aliran tahunan, sedimen sedang, banjir rendah, indeks penggunaan air tinggi), sosial ekonomi (tingginya tekanan penduduk, rendahnya ketersediaan penduduk, penegakan  sedang), investasi bangunan air (peringkat kota) rendah, nilai konstruksi air pemulihan rendah), pemanfaatan ruang regional (kawasan lindung rendah, kawasan budidaya tinggi). Nilai pembobotan komponen daya dukung SUB DAS Mandiangin adalah 116,00, termasuk dalam klasifikasi DAS yang memerlukan pemulihan daya dukung dan daya tampung. Upaya pegelolaan sumber daya alam dan lingkungan untuk pemulihan daya dukung dapat dilakukan berdasarkan skala prioritas dengan merujuk hasil beberapa komponen dengan kriteria pemulihan sangat tinggi, tinggi dan sedang. Untuk kriteria pemulihan rendah dan sangat rendah dapat dilakukan kegiatan monitoring, pencegahan, pengamanan, pengendalian dan perlindungan agar kualitas tidak menurun.
KESESUAIAN RUANG TERBUKA HIJAU DENGAN PENDEKATAN ANALISIS PENGINDERAAN JAUH WILAYAH KOTA BANJARBARU
Authors: Rosadi Hadi , Hatta Gusti Muhammad , Soendjoto Mochamad Arief
Published: July 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis sebaran lokasi prioritas untuk pembangunan ruang terbuka hijau di Kota Banjarbaru dengan pemanfaatan penginderaan jauh. Analisis diperlukan untuk memberikan rekomendasi kepada pemerintah kota agar dapat memenuhi proporsi ruang terbuka hijau minimal 30% luas wilayah perkotaan. Citra Satelit Sentinel-2A dan Citra DEM (Digital Elevation Model) menjadi data utama untuk dianalisis memanfaatkan penginderaan jauh agar memperoleh data spasial berupa kerapatan vegetasi (NDVI), kelembaban (NDMI), keterbangunan lahan (NDBI), kemiringan lereng (Slope), dan jarak dari permukiman (Buffer) yang diberikan skor pada setiap hasil analisis. Berdasarkan hasil analisis luas sebaran lokasi dengan Skala Sangat Prioritas seluas 18,31 hektar yang banyak tersebar pada daerah Gunung Kupang, Kelurahan Cempaka dan Skala Prioritas seluas 6.001,88 hektar setara dengan 20% luasan Kota Banjarbaru sehingga cukup untuk direkomendasikan kepada instansi terkait pengembangan ruang terbuka hijau di Kota Banjarbaru.
PENGARUH FAKTOR AKSESIBILITAS WILAYAH DAN PROGRAM KERJA KESATUAN PENGELOLAAN HUTAN TERHADAP TINGKAT KETERTARIKAN MASYARAKAT PADA PENGELOLAAN BISNIS MINYAK ATSIRI DI KPH PESAWARAN
Authors: Mahyuddin Arie , Yuwono Slamet Budi , Bakri Samsul , Febryanto Indra Gumay , Wulandari Christine , Kaskoyo Hari
Published: July 2024

Minyak atsiri merupakan komoditas ekspor non-migas yang diperlukan di berbagai bidang industri. Namun, masih banyak masyarakat yang tinggal di sekitar kawasan hutan penghasil minyak atsiri, hidup di bawah garis kemiskinan. Permasalahan tersebut tidak terlepas dari pengelolaan dan pemanfaatan hutan sehingga Kesatuan Pengelolaan Hutan (KPH) mempunyai peranan dalam pembangunan kehutanan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menyelidiki pengaruh aksesibilitas wilayah dan program kerja KPH terhadap tingkat ketertarikan masyarakat dalam pengelolaan  bisnis minyak atsiri di KPH  Pesawaran. Teknik yang digunakan adalah teknik probability sampling dengan variabel respon (dependen) tingkat ketertarikan yaitu sangat tertarik, tertarik, dan tidak tertarik. Variabel perjelas (independen) berupa aksesibilitas wilayah dan program kerja KPH yang diuji dengan model regresi logistik ordinal. Hasil wawancara diolah secara deskriptif dan hipotesis diuji menggunakan uji multikolinearitas, uji rasio likelihood, uji wald, dan uji kesesuaian model. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa aspek aksesibilitas memiliki peran signifikan dalam membentuk minat masyarakat terhadap pengelolaan bisnis minyak atsiri. Semakin dekat jarak rumah dengan kebun dan desa, serta semakin baik ketersediaan pasar, maka minat masyarakat semakin tinggi. Jarak tempuh yang jauh ke kecamatan dan adanya hambatan transportasi dapat memberikan pengaruh negatif minat masyarakat. Faktor-faktor lain seperti program pemanfaatan hasil hutan, sosialisasi, bantuan alat produksi, dan penanaman memiliki pengaruh yang lebih signifikan karena sesuai dengan kebutuhan masyarakat setempat.
PENURUNAN KADAR AIR KAYU AKASIA DAUN LEBAR (Acacia mangium Willd) YANG DIKERINGKAN DI RUANGAN DAN OVEN
Authors: Radam Rosidah , Nurasid Harun
Published: July 2024

Pengeringan kayu adalah suatu proses kegiatan penurunan kadar air kayu sehingga mencapai kadar air tertentu dengan atau tanpa pengaturan atau penyusunan tertentu dengan atau tanpa pengaturan panas, kelembaban dan sirkulasi udara. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk membedakan  perubahan kadar air kayu Akasia Daun Lebar (Acacia mangium Willd) baik dengan pengeringan dalam ruangan maupun oven. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Laboratorium Teknologi Hasil Hutan Fakultas Kehutanan Universitas Lambung Mangkurat Banjarbaru. Bahan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kayu Akasia Daun Lebar (Acacia mangium Willd) yang berukuran 2 x 5 x 25 cm sebanyak 24 buah contoh uji masing-masing 8 buah bagian pangkal, 8 buah bagian tengah dan 8 buah pada bagian ujung pohon yang dikeringkan di ruangan dan oven. Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) yaitu Rancangan Acak Lengkap 3 x 4. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nilai rata-rata kadar air di dalam oven cenderung semakin besar seiring dengan semakin naiknya posisi batang dalam kayu begitu pula di dalam ruangan. Dilihat dari kadar air kayu yang dikeringkan di dalam oven yaitu bagian pangkal sebesar 3,61 %, bagian tengah sebesar 3,77 % dan pada bagian ujung sebesar 5,20 %, maka persentase kadar air tersebut sangat baik digunakan untuk pembuatan alat-alat musik seperti gitar, biola dan lain-lain. Sedangkan kadar air kayu yang dikeringkan di ruangan yaitu bagian pangkal sebesar 17,32 %, bagian tengah sebesar 15,37 % dan bagian ujung  sebesar 16,65 %, maka rata-rata kadar air tersebut sangat baik digunakan untuk konstruksi bangunan seperti kusen jendela, rangka daun jendela dan penyekat ruangan (lumber sharing).
KORELASI KARAKTERISTIK DAN LEVEL PERSEPSI MASYARAKAT DALAM MELESTARIKAN EKOSISTEM GAMBUT DI TAHURA ORANG KAYO HITAM (OKH)
Authors: Agustin Yuli , Wulandari Christine , Iswandaru Dian , Novriyanti Novriyanti , Prasetia Hendra
Published: July 2024

Salah satu ekosistem gambut yang menjadi kawasan konservasi adalah Taman Hutan Raya Orang Kayo Hitam (Tahura OKH). Keberadaan Tahura ini sangat penting bagi kawasan sekitarnya, meski saat ini tingkat degradasi lahan gambut semakin mengkhawatirkan dan berdampak negatif terhadap fungsi hutan. Salah satu upaya pengendalian kerusakan hutan adalah dengan meningkatkan peran masyarakat lokal dalam mendukung kelestarian ekosistem OKH Tahura. Persepsi mereka terhadap hutan sangat penting untuk diketahui karena akan mempengaruhi peran mereka dalam mempertahankan fungsi dan manfaat hutan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis persepsi masyarakat tentang pentingnya menjaga kelestarian ekosistem gambut di Tahura OKH. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada bulan September hingga Oktober 2022 di Desa Jebus, Kecamatan Kumpeh, Kabupaten Muaro Jambi, Provinsi Jambi. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui wawancara dengan menggunakan kuesioner yang berisi persepsi masyarakat tentang karakteristik dan manfaat lahan gambut. Data hasil kuesioner diolah dengan menggunakan skala Likert dan dianalisis korelasi menggunakan SPSS. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat korelasi antara karakteristik dengan persepsi masyarakat tentang status dan kondisi gambut yaitu pada indikator pendapatan dengan nilai sigifikansi sebesar 0,004. Sedangkan untuk karakteristik dan persepsi masyarakat tentang pengelolaan gambut secara lestari tidak ada yang berkorelasi.
BIOAKUMULASI LOGAM BERAT PB DAN CU PADA RHIZOPHORA MUCRONATA DI KAWASAN MANGROVE SEKITAR PELABUHAN LEMBAR KABUPATEN LOMBOK BARAT
Authors: Sari Diah Permata , Hidayati Eni , Webliana B. Kornelia
Published: July 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis bioakumulasi logam berat Pb dan Cu pada Rhizophora mucronata. Pengambilan data dilakukan pada 30 plot yang meliputi sampel tanaman Rhizophora mucronata dan sedimen di bawahnya untuk dianalisis akumulasi Pb dan Cu. Selanjutnya dilakukan analisis faktor biokonsentrasi (BCF).  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Rata-rata kandungan logam berat Cu pada vegetasi mangrove jenis Rhizophora mucronata di seluruh plot yaitu 2,31 ppm, sedangkan rata-rata kandungan Pb 0,942 ppm  dan masih sesuai dengan batas toleransi bagi tumbuhan mangrove jenis hizophora mucronata.  Rata-rata akumulasi Cu pada sedimen yaitu 0,0869 ppm dan rata-rata akumulasi Pb pada sedimen yaitu 0,0043 ppm dan masih di bawah baku mutu.  Nilai BCF logam berat Pb pada seluruh plot pengamatan memiliki nilai BCF diantara 100 – 1.000 yang berarti bahwa memiliki sifat akumulasi sedang.  Nilai  BCF Cu pada seluruh plot kecuali plot 7 memiliki nilai < 100 yang berarti bahwa memiliki sifat akumulasi Cu yang rendah, sedangkan pada plot 7 memiliki nilai 249,4 (BCF = 100 – 1.000) yang berarti bahwa memiliki sifat akumulasi sedang.
ANALISIS KEBERLANJUTAN PROGRAM SISTEM PENYEDIAAN AIR MINUM BERBASIS MASYARAKAT DENGAN PRESPEKTIF MASYARAKAT ATAS KEANDALAN PROGRAM SEBAGAI VARIABEL INTERVENING
Authors: Efendi Andrie , Bakri Samsul , Abidin Zainal , Nurhasanah Nurhasanah
Published: July 2024

Beberapa penelitian telah dikembangkan dalam beberapa waktu terakhir untuk membantu pemerintah dalam meningkatkan keberlanjutan sistem pasokan air berbasis masyarakat di Indonesia, namun secara keseluruhan kemajuannya terlihat lambat. Permasalahan utama adalah setelah sarana dan prasarana terpasang program terhenti karena berbagai sebab. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membantu pemerintah dalam mengambil keputusan publik dengan menganalisis pengaruh faktor teknis, kelembagaan, ekonomi, sosial dan lingkungan terhadap keberlanjutan sistem penyediaan air bersih berbasis masyarakat dengan perspektif masyarakat mengenai keandalan sebagai faktor intervening. Metode kuantitatif digunakan dalam penelitian dengan model persamaan struktural untuk mengolah data primer yang diambil dari 163 sampel. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh positif dan signifikan faktor teknis, kelembagaan, ekonomi, sosial dan lingkungan terhadap keberlanjutan sistem penyediaan air bersih berbasis masyarakat dengan perspektif masyarakat mengenai keandalan sebagai variabel intervening.
ANGKA BENTUK DARI BEBERAPA JENIS MERANTI DI HUTAN ALAM SEKUNDER PT BORNEO INDOBARA KABUPATEN TANAH BUMBU PROVINSI KALIMANTAN SELATAN
Authors: Prawati Eka , Suyanto Suyanto , Nugroho Yusanto
Published: July 2024

Kegiatan dalam inventarisasi hutan salah satunya adalah pengukuran potensi volume tegakan. Penggunaan angka bentuk rata-rata sebesar 0,7 dianggap kurang tepat karena penggunaan satu angka bentuk tersebut merupakan rata-rata untuk semua jenis dan semua lokasi menghasilkan dugaan volume yang tidak akurat dan penggunaan satu angka bentuk untuk semua jenis dan semua lokasi menghasilkan dugaan volume yang tidak akurat. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah menganalisa besarnya angka bentuk pohon dari beberapa jenis meranti (meranti batu (Parashorea aptera), meranti merah (Shorea leprosula) dan meranti putih (Shorea agamii)) di hutan lahan kering sekunder PT Borneo Indobara Kabupaten Tanah Bumbu Provinsi Kalimantan Selatan. Pengumpulan data dilakukan secara survey menggunakan plot pengamatan berukuran 40 x 40 m sebanyak 5 plot dengan sampel minimal 30 sampel dan pengambilan sampel dilakukan secara purposive sampling yang berdasarkan kriteria. Hasil yang diperoleh yaitu angka bentuk pohon pada beberapa jenis meranti di areal PT Borneo Indobara sebesar 0,86.  Angka bentuk 0,86 lebih besar dari pada angka bentuk rata-rata yaitu 0,7.
Clustering Analysis of Chess Portable Game Notation Text
Authors: Wijayanto Feri
Published: July 2024

Chess is a game that requires a high level of intelligence and strategy. Generally, in order to understand complex move patterns and strategies, the expertise of chess masters is required. With the rapid development in the field of machine learning, the digitization of chess game recordings in Portable Game Notation (PGN) format, and the availability of large and widely accessible data, it is possible to apply machine learning techniques to analyze chess games. This research studies the use of text clustering algorithms, specifically hierarchical clustering and K-means clustering, to categorize chess games based on their moves. We extracted 100 chess games that use certain openings such as French Defence, Queen's Gambit Declined, and English Opening. In the implementation of hierarchical clustering, single, average, and complete linkage methods are used. As a result, our findings show that hierarchical clustering with single linkage is less effective. On the other hand, the average and complete linkage methods, as well as K-means clustering, successfully identify clusters corresponding to the original openings. Notably, K-means clustering showed the highest accuracy in clustering chess games. This research highlights the potential of machine learning techniques in uncovering strategic patterns in chess games, paving the way for deeper insights into game strategies.
Advances in Deep-Learning Methods for Prostate Segmentation and Volume Estimation in Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Kurucz Liza , Natali Tiziano , Fusaglia Matteo , Dashtbozorg Behdad
Published: July 2024

Accurate prostate volume estimation is crucial for effective prostate disease management. Ultrasound (US) imaging, particularly transrectal ultrasound, offers a cost-effective and rapid assessment. However, US images often suffer from artifacts and poor contrast, making prostate volume estimation challenging. This review explores recent advancements in deep learning (DL) techniques for automatic prostate segmentation in US images as a primary step for prostate volume estimation. We examine various DL architectures, including traditional U-Net modifications and innovative designs incorporating residual connections, multi-directional image data, and attention mechanisms. Additionally, we discuss pre-processing methods to enhance image quality, the integration of shape information, and strategies to improve the consistency and robustness of DL models. The effectiveness of these techniques is evaluated through metrics such as Dice Similarity Coefficient, Jaccard Index, and Hausdorff Distance. The review highlights the potential of DL in improving prostate volume estimation accuracy and reducing clinical workload, while also identifying areas for future research to enhance model performance and generalizability.
Psychometric Study of Two Decision-Making Measures: The Melbourne Decision-Making Questionnaire Versus the General Decision-Making Style
Authors: Aluja Anton , Balada Ferran , García Oscar , García Luis F
Published: July 2024

This study compares the Melbourne Decision-Making Questionnaire (MDMQ) and the General Decision-Making Style (GDMS), two of the most widely used decision-making questionnaires in the literature, in a large age- and sex-weighted general population sample of 714 men (45.7%) and 848 women (54.3%) between 18 and 90 years old. The objective was to evaluate the convergent and construct validity between several aspects of decision-making styles questionnaires. The results indicate that the two questionnaires replicate the factorial structure of four and five factors reported in the original studies respectively, through exploratory and confirmatory procedures in our cross-cultural context. The domains of both questionnaires that represent a strong or large correlation are Vigilance with Rational (.50), Hypervigilance, Buck-passing, and Procrastination with Avoidant (.45, .52 and .60). A Structural Equations Model (SEM) between both questionnaires indicates that both latent factors formed by the domains of the MDMQ and the GDMS obtain a correlation of .96. It is concluded that the two questionnaires measure similar aspects of the decision-making construct.
Salidroside as a Modulator of Bone Metabolism: Insight Into the Active Constituent of Rhodiola rosea
Authors: Wojdasiewicz Piotr , Brodacki Stanisław , Cieślicka Ewa , Turczyn Paweł , Poniatowski Łukasz A. , Ławniczak Weronika , Olczak Mieszko , Stolarczyk Elżbieta U. , Wróbel Edyta , Mikulska Agnieszka , Lach-Gruba Anna , Żuk Beata , Romanowska-Próchnicka Katarzyna , Szukiewicz Dariusz
Published: July 2024

Rhodiola rosea, a perennial herb from the Crassulaceae family, contains the bioactive compound salidroside, recognized as an adaptogen with significant therapeutic potential for bone metabolism. Salidroside promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation by activating critical signaling pathways, including bone morphogenetic protein-2 and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, essential for bone formation and growth. It enhances osteogenic activity by increasing alkaline phosphatase activity and mineralization markers, while upregulating key transcription factors such as runt-related transcription factor 2 and osterix. Additionally, salidroside facilitates angiogenesis via the hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha and vascular endothelial growth factor pathway, crucial for coupling bone formation with vascular support. Its antioxidant properties offer protection against bone loss by reducing oxidative stress and promoting osteogenic differentiation through the nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 pathway. Salidroside's ability to counteract the negative effects of glucocorticoids on bone cells and prevent steroid-induced osteonecrosis, along with its anti-inflammatory properties, enhances its potential in treating conditions like osteoarthritis. These attributes underscore its multifaceted role in bone metabolism. This article reviews the literature, including in vitro and in vivo studies primarily on rodent models, demonstrating salidroside's efficacy in mitigating bone loss, preserving bone microarchitecture, and accelerating fracture healing. Future research directions to explore salidroside’s applications in bone-related diseases are also highlighted.
Long-Term Survival Trends in Pediatric Patients with Solid Tumors in the State of São Paulo, Brazil (2000-2022): An Analytical Descriptive Epidemiological Study
Authors: Oliveira Anna Clara Chiozzi , Prates Pedro Emílio Gomes , Ferreira Pedro Jacinto , Alonso Jonas Bodini , Zamarioli Cristina Mara
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: São Paulo, Brazil, exhibits high mortality rates from pediatric solid tumors. This study analyzed the survival trends of patients aged 0-19 diagnosed with the state's five most prevalent solid tumors between 2000-2022. (2) Methods: An epidemiological, descriptive study utilized data from the Oncocentro Foundation of São Paulo, classified according to the International Classification of Childhood Cancer. The time between the first consultation and diagnosis, between diagnosis and treatment initiation, and patient survival were assessed using the Pe-to-Peto test. (3) Results: Analysis involved 11,067 cases: 53.5% male, with 89.6% diagnosed via microscopic confirmation. Tumor distribution comprised 34.3% central nervous system, 21.1% bone, 18.6% soft tissue, 14.2% germ cell, and 11.9% retinoblastomas. Main treatments included surgery with chemotherapy (26.5%), surgery alone (20.5%), and chemotherapy alone (15.6%). The average time between consultation and diagnosis was 22.94 ± 69.93 days, significant for treatments and recurrences, except for germ cell tumors (p=0.0178). The time between diagnosis and treatment was 25.46 ± 39.71 days, not significant for germ cell tumor treatments (p=0.0793). (4) Conclusions: Survival curves varied among neoplasm groups, with patients experiencing delays beyond recommended times, despite advanced healthcare services in the state.
Decoding LncRNA in COPD: Unveiling Prognostic and Diagnostic Power and Their Driving Role in Lung Cancer Progressions
Authors: Sweef Osama , Mahfouz Reda , Taşcıoğlu Tülin , Albowaidy Ali , Abdelmonem Mohamed , Asfar Malek , Zaabout Elsayed , Corcino Yalitza Lopez , Thomas Venetia , Choi Eun-Seok , Furuta Saori
Published: July 2024

Keywords: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Long Non-Coding RNAs (lncRNAs), Molecular Pathogenesis, Inflammation, Lung Cancer, Diagnostic Biomarkers
Neural correlates of Telicity in Spanish Speaking Children with and without Developmental Language Disorder
Authors: Urrutia Mabel , Sanhueza Soraya , Marrero Hipólito , Pino Esteban J. , Troncoso-Seguel María
Published: July 2024

It is broadly acknowledged that children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) show verb-related limitations. While most previous studies in Spanish have focused on tense, the mastery of lexical aspect—particularly telicity—has not been the primary focus of much research. Lexical aspect refers to whether an action has a defined endpoint (telic verbs) or not (atelic verbs). This study investigates the effect of telicity on verb recognition in Chilean children with DLD compared to their typically developing (TD) peers using the Event-Related Potential (ERP) technique. The research design is a mixed factorial design with between-group factors of 2 (DLD/TD) and within-group factors of 2 (telic/atelic verbs) and 2 (coherent/incoherent sentences). Participants included 36 school-aged children (18 DLD, 18 TD) aged 7 to 7 years and 11 months. The task required subjects to listen to sentences that either matched or did not match an action in a video, with sentences including telic or atelic verbs. The study found notable differences between groups in how they processed verbs (N400 and post-N400 components) and direct objects (N400 and P600 components). DLD children struggled to differentiate telic and atelic verbs, potentially because they employed overgeneralization strategies consistent with the Event Structural Bootstrapping model.
Exploring Egalitarianism: A Methodological Review and Research Agenda on Egalitarianism to Foster Positive Intergroup Relations
Authors: Waldrop Rachael J. , Warren Meg A.
Published: July 2024

Considerable research on intergroup relations emphasizes attitudes, motivations, and emotions that lead to reduction of prejudice. While factors that actively promote positive intergroup interactions have been emerging, a central theoretical framework has not been formally proposed. To address this gap, we engage a positive psychology lens to explore how and why people overcome their internalized biases to seek out successful and positive intergroup relations, looking to the positive counterparts of traditional prejudice-reduction models to begin building a framework of understanding. We reviewed the literature on values that guide intergroup behavior. After scanning 16,840 records that emerged in PsycInfo using keywords “egalitarian,” “non-prejudice,” and “intergroup,” we assessed 158 articles for eligibility. Among the relevant articles (N = 54), we analyzed authors’ definitions, methods of measurement, types of processes, and outcomes associated with egalitarian and non-prejudice values as they related to intergroup behavior. Overall, there was notable variability in how researchers conceptualized and observed egalitarianism. We discuss the five broad categories of egalitarianism (prejudice reduction, positive expression, concern for others, low social-dominance orientation, and universal orientation) and how they relate to positive or negative, and approach or avoidant outcomes. We propose a centralized model for studying positive values in intergroup contexts moving forward.
Peanut Hulls, an Underutilized Nutritious Culinary Ingredient: Valorizing Food Waste for Global Food, Health, & Farm Economies- a Narrative Review
Authors: Gerber Suzannah , Roberts Susan B.
Published: July 2024

Peanut hulls (PH) are an edible food waste that is an underutilized food source for human consumption. While edible and palatable, they are mainly diverted to livestock feed or building materials. Here, we describe existing literature on human food valorization of PHs and propose methods to optimize recapturing nutrients (e.g. protein, fiber, polyphenols) lost by treating PHs as waste. Incorporated into common foods, PHs can be processed into functional ingredients to improve nutrient-density and the corresponding positive health outcomes associated with increases in plant foods. PH valorization can also address additional priorities of the UN Sustainable Development Goals using a Food Systems Approach (FSA) including food waste, increasing economic opportunities for farmers, and increasing the availability of healthy shelf-stable foodstuffs to address food security. Recent advances in sustainable food processing technologies can be utilized to safely incorporate peanut hulls into human food streams. We propose future applications that could make meaningful impacts to food availability and the nutritional composition of common foods. While the limited literature on this topic spans several decades, no global operations exist to incorporate peanut hulls and most publications precede the technological ‘green revolution’. The approaches outlined in this review may help bolster commercialization of this underutilized and nutritious food potentially improving opportunities for multiple global stakeholders.
Citrate Dialysate with and without Magnesium Supplementation in Hemodiafiltration: A Comparative Study versus Acetate
Authors: Rodríguez-Espinosa Diana , Cuadrado Elena , Rico Naira , Torra Mercè , Fernández Rosa María , Casals Gregori , Rodríguez-García María , Maduell Francisco , Broseta José Jesús
Published: July 2024

The choice of dialysate buffer in hemodialysis is crucial, with acetate being widely used despite complications. Citrate has emerged as an alternative due to its favorable effects, yet concerns persist about its impact on calcium and magnesium levels. This study investigates the influence of citrate dialysate (CD) with and without additional magnesium supplementation on CKD-MBD biomarkers and assesses their ability to chelate divalent metals compared to acetate dialysates (AD). A prospective crossover study was conducted in a single center, involving patients on thrice-weekly online hemodiafiltration (HDF). Four dialysates were compared: two acetate-based and two citrate-based. Various biochemical parameters were monitored before and after each dialysis session. Seventy-two HDF sessions were performed in eighteen patients. CD showed stability in iPTH levels and reduced post-dialysis total calcium, with no significant increase in adverse events. Magnesium supplementation with CD prevented hypomagnesemia. However, no significant differences among dialysates were observed in the chelation of other divalent metals. Citrate dialysates, particularly with higher magnesium concentrations, offer promising benefits, including prevention of hypomagnesemia and stabilization of CKD-MBD parameters, suggesting citrate as a viable alternative to acetate. Further studies are warranted to elucidate long-term outcomes and optimize dialysate formulations.
Escalation and De-escalation of Adjuvant Radiotherapy in Early Breast Cancer: Strategies for Risk-Adapted Optimization
Authors: Gruber Guenther
Published: July 2024

Postoperative RT is recommended after breast conserving surgery and mastectomy (with risk factors). Consideration of pros and cons including potential side effects demands for optimization of adjuvant RT and a risk-adapted approach. There is clear de-escalation in fractionation - hypofractionation should be considered standard. For selected low risk situations PBI only or even the omission of RT might be appropriate. In contrast, tendencies in escalating RT are obvious. Preoperative RT seems attractive for patients in whom breast reconstruction is planned or for defining the tumor location more precisely with the potential of giving ablative doses. Dose escalation by a (simultaneous integrated) boost or the combination with new compounds/systemic treatments may increase antitumor efficacy but also toxicity. Despite low evidence, RT for oligometastatic disease is becoming increasingly popular. The omission of axillary dissection in node-positive disease led to an escalation of regional RT. Studies are ongoing to test if any axillary treatment can be omitted and which oligometastatic patients do really benefit from RT. Besides technical improvements the incorporation of molecular risk profiles but also the response to neoadjuvant systemic therapy have the potential to optimize the decision-making if and how local and/or regional RT should be administered.
Identifying Geographic Inequities in Family Planning Service Uptake in Pakistan: A Comparative Study of PDHS 2006 to 2017 Using Cluster Hotspot Analysis
Authors: Baig Kamran , Okoye Ebele , Shaw Mary
Published: July 2024

Family planning (FP) services are crucial interventions for improving maternal and child health outcomes and promoting gender equity. However, ensuring equitable access to these services remains a significant challenge, particularly in countries like Pakistan, where sociocultural norms, economic disparities, and geographic barriers hinder FP uptake. This study utilized spatial analysis techniques, including hotspot analysis, to investigate geographic disparities in FP uptake in Pakistan using data from Pakistan Demographic and Health Surveys (PDHS) conducted between 2006 and 2017. ArcMap 10.1 was used for spatial analysis and Stata 12.0 for statistical analysis. Results revealed significant spatial variations in FP uptake, with urban areas generally exhibiting higher uptake rates than rural regions. Hotspot analysis identified dynamic changes in contraceptive prevalence rates (CPR), with significant clustering in some regions and dispersion in others. It also identified areas with high unmet need and their low intention to use FP services and preference for family size (>3 children), highlighting the need for targeted behavioral change interventions. This innovative spatial approach provides nuanced insights for policymakers and program planners to develop targeted interventions based on localized data to improve FP service delivery, mitigate disparities, and ultimately advance efforts to improve maternal and child health outcomes. The application of geospatial analysis is an effective tool for enhancing program planning, evaluation, and resource allocation in diverse geographical contexts.
Single-Cell Transcriptomics Reveals Early Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells in Mice
Authors: Wu Yun-Qiang , Ding Ke-Xin , Cao Zheng-Yue , Zhao Ke , Gao Hui-Ying , Lv Zhi-Chun , Sun Hui-Ying , Li Jing-Jing , Li Si-Yu , Zhao Xiong-Wei , Xue Yang , Xiang Shen-Si , Yang Xiao-Ming , Zheng Xiao-Fei , Li Chang-Yan
Published: July 2024

Ionizing radiation exposure can cause damage to diverse tissues and organs, with the hematopoietic system being the most sensitive. However, limited information is available regarding the radiosensitivity of various hematopoietic cell populations in the bone marrow due to the high heterogeneity of the hematopoietic system. In this study, we observed that granulocyte-macrophage progenitors, hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells and B cells within the bone marrow showed the highest sensitivity, exhibiting a rapid decrease in cell numbers following irradiation. Nonetheless, neutrophils, natural killer (NK) cells, T cells, and dendritic cells demonstrated a certain degree of radioresistance, with neutrophils exhibiting the most pronounced resistance. By employing single-cell transcriptome sequencing, we investigated the early responsive genes in various cell types following irradiation, revealing that distinct gene expression profiles emerged between radiosensitive and radioresistant cells. In B cells, radiation exposure led to a specific upregulation of genes associated with mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, suggesting a connection between these complexes and cell radiosensitivity. In neutrophils, radiation exposure resulted in fewer gene alterations, indicating their potential for distinct mechanisms in radiation resistance. Collectively, this study provides insights into the molecular mechanism for the heterogeneity of radiosensitivity among the various bone marrow hematopoietic cell populations.
Limited Time Resolution of Event Data Loggers Can Bias Intensity Measurements from Tipping-Bucket Rain Gauges
Authors: Dunkerley David
Published: July 2024

Event data loggers are frequently used to record the date and time of tip events in tipping-bucket rain gauges. The HOBO® pendant event data logger is one such commercially-available device commonly used for this purpose. It can record the contact closure of a TBGR reed switch at a maximum timing resolution of 1 second, tied to the timing of the logger clock, which is set each time the logger is launched. These event loggers are ideal for the routine recording of rainfall. This paper addresses the issue of whether they can also be relied upon when estimating short-term intensities, for which they were not designed. New experiments show that for a series of switch closures at fixed intervals other than exact multiples of 1 s, the HOBO® logger fails to record evenly-spaced tip events. Thus, for example, with pulses at fixed 2.75 s intervals, the logger records some events as occurring at 2 s intervals, and others at 3 s intervals. The duration between logged events is correct only when the mean is calculated for a long series of logged events. In natural rainfall, tip events can occur at any time, and inter-tip times, from which intensity can be estimated, will generally not be an integral number of seconds. Consequently, particularly in intense rain, the logger behaviour just described can lead to erroneous estimates of the rainfall rate estimated from the duration of individual inter-tip times. Possible solutions are discussed.
There is no “love molecule”. No evidence that phenylethylamine is directly involved in romantic love
Authors: Conti Massimo
Published: July 2024

A surge of b-phenylethylamine (PEA), an endogenous monoamine found in traces in the human brain and naturally present in chocolate, has been commonly associated with romantic love earning it the nickname of “love molecule”. The origin of this association must be traced to a speculation dating back to the early eighties that has over time become something of a factoid, reaching a large diffusion through the sharing phenomenon of the Internet. What is disputed in this paper is the existence of any direct biochemical or physiological evidence of the role of PEA in any of the phases of romantic love in the human species. The actual and possible roles of PEA in human physiology are reviewed.
Porous Silica Nanomaterials as Carriers of Biologically Active Natural Polyphenols: Effect of Structure and Surface Modification
Authors: Trendafilova Ivalina , Popova Margarita
Published: July 2024

For centuries, humans have relied on natural products to prevent and treat numerous health issues. However, biologically active compounds from natural sources, such as polyphenols, face significant challenges, including low solubility, rapid metabolism, and instability, which hinder their effectiveness. Advances in science and nanotechnology have provided solutions to overcoming these problems through the use of porous silica materials. These materials possess unique properties, such as a high specific surface area, adjustable particle and pore sizes, and a surface that can be easily and selectively modified. In this review, we summarize and discuss findings on how the pore and particle size, structure, and surface modification of silica materials influence the preparation of efficient delivery systems for biologically active polyphenols from natural sources. The available data demonstrate how parameters such as adsorption capacity, release and antioxidant properties, bioavailability, solubility, stability, etc. of the studied delivery systems could be affected by the structural and chemical characteristics of the porous silica carriers.
Bottled or Tap Water? Factors Explaining Consumption and Measures to Promote Tap Water
Authors: Zvěřinová Iva , Otáhal Jan , Ščasný Milan
Published: July 2024

The production and consumption of plastic bottled water have several negative environmental impacts worldwide. The EU countries have adopted strategies and programs to reduce single-use plastics (e.g. PET bottles). A critical aspect of designing effective policies is understanding consumer behaviour. To identify barriers and motivations for consuming tap and bottled water, we conducted a questionnaire survey among 3,411 respondents in the Czech Republic in 2022. The methods used include estimation using the Generalized Ordered Logit. The results reveal that young people appear to be moderate consumers of bottled water and heavy consumers of tap water. Bottled water consumption was more likely to be lower among people with higher education, while tap water consumption was lower among people with lower incomes. The factors that appear to have the most significant influence on bottled and tap water consumption are taste perception, health concerns and habit. Health concerns about tap water and the unpleasant taste of tap water influence higher consumption of bottled water and vice versa. People with a strong habit of drinking tap water are less likely to consume bottled water. The constructs from the Theory of Planned Behavior were statistically significant. The results can guide decision-makers by promoting the availability of tap water in public places in conjunction with a campaign targeting taste perception and health and promoting the habit of drinking tap water.