bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KUALITAS FISIK AMOFER RUMPUT KUME KERING (Sorghum plumosum Var. Timorense) DENGAN PENAMBAHAN LEVEL MIKROORGANISME LOKAL
Authors: Hartati Maria , Lazarus Edwin J.L. , Lawa Emma D. Wie , Hilakore Maritje A.
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi penggunaan mikroorganisme lokal (MOL) asal cairan rumen, terhadap kualitas fisik amofer rumput kume kering. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode eksperimental menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap (RAL) yang terdiri dari 4 perlakuan dan 4 ulangan. Susunan perlakuan yaitu P0 = Rumput kume amoniasi + 5% tepung putak + 5% gula air; P1 = Rumput kume amoniasi + 5% tepung putak + 5% gula air + 40 ml MOL; P2 = Rumput kume amoniasi + 5% tepung putak + 5% gula air + 80 ml MOL; P3 = Rumput kume amoniasi + 5% tepung putak + 5% gula air + 120 ml MOL. Variabel yang diukur adalah kualitas fisik meliputi tekstur, warna, aroma, jamur, dan pH. Kualitas fisik diamati menggunakan petunjuk skor uji organoleptik dari 15 orang panelis. Data organoleptik dianalisis menggunakan Kruskal-Wallis Test, pH diamati menggunakan pH meter dan datanya dianalisis menggunakan Analisis of Variance (ANOVA) dan dilanjutkan dengan uji jarak berganda Duncan. Hasil analisis statistik menunjukkan perlakuan berpengaruh sangat nyata (P<0,01) terhadap variabel warna, aroma, dan pH. Hasil uji jarak berganda Duncan menunjukkan perlakuan yang menggunakan mikroorganisme lokal nyata (P<0,05) lebih baik dibanding perlakuan kontrol, tetapi tidak berpengaruh nyata (P>0,05) terhadap tekstur dan jamur. Disimpulkan bahwa penambahan mikroorganisme lokal sebanyak 40 ml dalam produksi amofer rumput kume kering, memberikan pengaruh terbaik terhadap kualitas fisik amofer rumput kume kering.
PENGARUH PENGGUNAAN SUMBER KARBOHIDRAT MUDAH LARUT YANG BERBEDA TERHADAP SIFAT FISIK SILASE ISI RUMEN SAPI
Authors: Malo Jonatan , Hilakore Maritje Aleonor , Lazarus Edwin J.L. , Wie Lawa Emma Dyelim
Published: August 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengevaluasi sifat fisik silase isi rumen sapi menggunakan sumber karbohidrat yang berbeda yaitu dedak padi, tepung bonggol pisang, pollard, dan tepung putak. Penelitian dilakukan menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap (RAL) dengan 4 perlakuan dan 4 ulangan. Perlakuan yang digunakan adalah (P1) 100% isi rumen + 35% dedak padi + 5% gula lontar + 40ml MOL, (P2) 100% isi rumen + 35% tepung bonggol pisang + 5% gula lontar + 40 ml MOL, (P3) 100% isi rumen + 35% pollard + 5% gula lontar + 40 ml MOL, dan (P4) 100% isi rumen + 35% putak + 5% gula lontar + 40 ml MOL. Variabel yang diukur meliputi berat jenis, kadar air, daya serap air dan daya larut air. Data dianalisis menggunakan Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) dan dilanjutkan dengan uji jarak berganda Duncan. Hasil analisis statistik menunjukan adanya pengaruh  sangat nyata (P<0,01) terhadap kadar air, daya serap air dan daya larut air, namun tidak berpengaruh nyata (P>0,05) terhadap berat jenis. Disimpulkan bahwa penggunaan sumber karbohidrat mudah larut yang berbeda menghasilkan kadar air, daya serap air dan daya larut air yang berbeda, tetapi berat jenis tidak menunjukkan perbedaan. Perlakuan terbaik sifat fisik silase isi rumen ditunjukkan pada penggunaan tepung bonggol pisang.
Academic Writing Competence: a Case Study of Final Year Students
Authors: Santi Chandri Febri , Solvera Esy
Published: August 2024

Writing is one of the most difficult language skills to master compared to the other four aspects of language skills. In the world of education, especially higher education, academic writing is a writing skill that must be mastered by students. This study aims to describe the academic writing competence of undergraduate students at UIN Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi and to find out what factors influence student academic writing competence. This research is a qualitative descriptive study. Data collection was carried out by distributing closed questionnaires, document collection, and open interviews. The respondents of this study were 110 final-year students and 10 lecturers in the field of Indonesian science. Research data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman's interactive analysis model which included data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The results showed that the academic writing competence of undergraduate students at the final level of UIN Sulthan Saifuddin Jambi was at a good level, with a note that there was a need for improvement in aspects of the content organization such as the ability to describe problems supported by scientific arguments. Two factors affect students' academic writing competence, namely internal and external factors. Internal factors include writing intensity, reading intensity, and self-motivation. While the external factors are academic writing teaching, access to references, and time allocation.
Pengaruh Sertifikasi Halal terhadap Minat Beli Konsumen Mixue pada Mahasiswa Fakultas Agama Islam (FAI) UNWAHA
Authors: Ashlihah  , Hasyim Rois
Published: August 2024

Sertifikasi halal penting bagi konsumen Muslim karena memberikan jaminan bahwa mereka dapat memilih makanan yang baik bagi mereka dan mematuhi aturan agama. Mengetahui kualitas makanan halal berdasarkan label halal yang tertera pada produk tentunya akan mendatangkan minat yang besar bagi konsumen ketika memutuskan untuk membeli dan mengkonsumsi makanan halal. Ice Cream Mixue dibuka pertama kali pada tahun 2020, dan dengan cepat menjadi topik hangat karena harganya yang terjangkau dan rasanya yang tidak mengecewakan. Alhasil, es krim tersebut viral di media sosial, hingga mahasiswa UNWAHA khususnya Jurusan Agama Islam pun tertarik dan ingin membelinya.Tingkat pembeliannya sangat tinggi dibandingkan dengan makanan dan minuman lainya, namun terdapat beberapa perdebatan mengenai kehalalanya.Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dampak sertifikasi halal terhadap niat beli konsumen es krim mixue di kalangan mahasiswa FAI (Fakultas Agama Islam) UNWAHA.  Metode pendekatan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kuantitatif. Regresi linier sederhana digunakan untuk analisis data.Teknik pengambilan sampel non-probabilitas, yaitu pengambilan sampel acak, digunakan untuk pengambilan sampel,terdapat 94 responden yang dipilih .Dari hasil uji t diperoleh nilai t hitung sebesar 7,498 > 2,279 dan nilai signifikansi < 0,000. 0,05 maka dapat disimpulkan  hipotesis ini  H0 ditolak dan H1 diterima. Artinya terdapat pengaruh antara sertifikasi halal terhadap minat beli konsumen es krim mixue pada mahasiswa FAI (Fakultas Agama Islam) UNWAHA.
PREDICTING THE 2024 US PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION WITH THE POLITICAL ECONOMY AND SECURITY MODEL
Authors: Charles Christopher
Published: August 2024

The objective was to predict the 2024 US Presidential Election. Establish models are parsimonious with two predictors explaining about 90% of the variance. The hot button issues of immigration and abortion together could not achieve similar variance because of data limitations. Other variables were added to achieve variance near 90%. The predictors are net differences in partisan trust in government; the consumer price index (CPI); annualized abortion growth rate; annualized number of immigrants as a proportion of the population; and the annualized prison population growth rate. The outcome is party in power candidate. A logistic regression model was built. An increase in CPI reduces the log odds of the party in power candidate remaining in power. An increase in all the other predictors increase the log odds of the party in power candidate winning which means Joe Biden would win, and now his replacement Kamala Harris will win.
Impementasi Data Mining Dalam Pengelolaan Stok Obat Menggunakan Metode K-Means Clustering dan Asossociation Rules Apriori
Authors: Alinafiah Andika Muhammad , Octariadi Barry Ceasar , Sucipto Sucipto
Published: August 2024

Pengelolaan stok obat menjadi salah satu aspek penting dalam penjualan yang memerlukan strategi efektif untuk memastikan ketersediaan obat yang memadai. Permasalahan penelitian ini adalah pengelolaan yang kurang efektif sehingga akan beresiko mengalami kelebihan dan kekurangan stok. Maka perlu adanya sistem yang dapat mengalami kelebihan dan kekurangan stok. Maka perlu adanya sistem yang dapat menghasilkan pola obat dimana akan menampilkan data obat apa saja yang sering dibeli, biasa dibeli, dan jarang dibeli menggunakan K-Means Clustering. Serta hubungan antar obat yang dibeli secara bersamaan menggunakan Association Rules Apriori. Dengan menggunakan K-Means Clustering, penelitian ini menghasilkan 3 cluster yaitu cluster 1 memiliki 231 data kelompok jarang dibeli, cluster 0 memiliki 56 data kelompok sering dibeli, dan cluster 2 memiliki 41 data kelompok biasa dibeli dan Association Rules Apriori menghasilkan obat yang sering dibeli secara bersamaan yaitu jika membeli obat METOCLOPRAMID 10 MG maka akan membeli METRONIDAZOLE 500 MG dengan support 17% dan confidence 62%.
Digitalisasi Usulan Standar Biaya Masukan Internal Politeknik Negeri Banyuwangi
Authors: Putri Jesica Sekar Ananta , Mohamad Dimyati Ayatullah  , Khoirul Umam  , Devit Suwardiyanto  , Indira Nuansa Ratri
Published: August 2024

Digitalisasi telah menjadi elemen penting dalam meningkatkan efisiensi dan akurasi di berbagai sektor, termasuk pendidikan tinggi. Politeknik Negeri Banyuwangi menghadapi tantangan dalam mengelola proposal biaya standar internal, yang saat ini dilakukan secara manual, menyebabkan inefisiensi dan rentan terhadap kesalahan. Studi ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan sistem digital guna mengelola proposal biaya standar, meningkatkan efisiensi, mengurangi kesalahan, serta meningkatkan transparansi dan akuntabilitas. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode Rapid Application Development (RAD) yang meliputi tahapan analisis kebutuhan, desain, pengembangan, implementasi, dan pengujian. Hasil penelitian yang diharapkan adalah terciptanya sistem digital yang modern dan efisien untuk pengelolaan proposal biaya standar di Politeknik Negeri Banyuwangi. Sistem ini diharapkan dapat mengurangi risiko kesalahan serta meningkatkan transparansi dan akuntabilitas dalam pengelolaan keuangan. Dengan implementasi sistem digital ini, Politeknik Negeri Banyuwangi diharapkan dapat meningkatkan efisiensi operasional dan menjadi model bagi lembaga pendidikan lainnya dalam pengembangan sistem pengelolaan yang lebih efektif.
Analisis Perbandingan Linear Regression dan Random Forest Regression untuk Prediksi Batas Kredit: Pendekatan Optimasi Hyperparameter
Authors: Fadillah Algies Rifkha , Fauzan Mohamad Nurkamal
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi penggunaan Linear Regression dan Random Forest Regression untuk memprediksi batas maksimal pinjaman kredit dalam industri keuangan. Metode ini digunakan untuk membandingkan performa prediksi dengan dua set fitur yang berbeda. Setelah melakukan optimasi hyperparameter menggunakan Optuna, hasil menunjukkan bahwa Random Forest Regression memberikan akurasi prediksi yang lebih tinggi dibandingkan Linear Regression, dengan nilai RMSE terendah sebesar 7.90% dan MAE terendah sebesar 4.72%. Penggunaan 4 fitur menunjukkan sedikit peningkatan dalam akurasi dibandingkan 7 fitur, meskipun tidak signifikan. Hasil ini menyarankan penggunaan Random Forest Regression untuk meningkatkan keakuratan dalam menetapkan batas kredit, mengurangi risiko kredit, dan meningkatkan stabilitas lembaga keuangan. Dengan demikian, pengoptimalan hyperparameter dengan Optuna dapat meningkatkan performa prediksi model regresi dalam konteks ini.
Diversifikasi Produk Nutrisi Berbahan Dasar Ikan Lele pada Kelompok Nelayan Wanita Kab. Mempawah sebagai Salah Satu Upaya Penanganan Stunting
Authors: Fitriagustiani Fitriagustiani , Pasmawati Pasmawati , Khairillah Yuyun Nisaul , Pratama Sandi Fransisco , Alang Hasria
Published: August 2024

Poor nutritional status of the community leads to weak human development index (HDI) values. Increasing interest in fish consumption, which is rich in diverse nutritional sources, can be a solution to improved people nutritional status in coastal communities whose livelihood marine-dependent. Fish is known as a good source of a high quality protein. This nutritional source plays an important role to provide the nutrition of pregnant women and the development of toddlers. Food diversification by using aquaculture products is expected to be one solution to increased public interest in consuming fish and also could be away to  increase the selling value of fishery products. This social service aims to provide information in utilizing the fishery products (i.e Catfish) as a food diversification materials to prevent stunting in the Pak Bulu village community, Anjongan sub-district, Mempawah Regency. The stages of this activity include 1) Survey and analysis  of community conditions, 2) Stunting education and introduction to the process of food diversification fish based.  This community Service activities are expected to increase knowledge and skills in processing fishery products. Therefore, it can increase fish consumption in the community and become one of the solution to prevent stunting and also could be a way to improve the community's economy.
Edukasi Pengelolaan Sampah Rumah Tangga pada Warga Sekitar Lokasi Bank Sampah Emo-G Kabupaten Bogor
Authors: Sulistiyorini Desy , Demiyati Cici
Published: August 2024

Garbage is now one of the biggest problems in Indonesia. Indonesia produces 64 million tons of garbage annually, most of which is household waste. If not properly managed, waste can block waterways, resulting in environmental pollution and health impacts. The method of community service activities is educational management of household garbage around the location of Emo-G Waste Bank Bogor district. The event was attended by 20 participants who were present and given a questionnaire at the beginning and end. The analysis results showed an increase in the average knowledge score of respondents related to garbage management, with an average pre-test score of 8,17 and a post-test average of 8,25. For the variable attitude towards garbage management, there was also an increase in the average score, where the pre-test score was 8,33, and the post-sitting score was 8,67. An increase was observed for the waste management behavior variable, with an average pre-test score of 7,42 and an average post-test score of 8,08. Based on the results of the internal evaluation, the team's service to the community is rated as running fairly well. Recommendations to citizens are expected to participate more actively in household garbage disposal activities and to deposit in the trash bank to reduce the waste burden that the TPA has to manage and also bring economic benefits for citizens as the saved trash can be converted into monetary value.
Kelompok Pemuda Gerakan Masyarakat Sehat di Kota Palu, Sulawesi Tengah
Authors: Amsal Amsal , Junaidi Junaidi , Cahyani Yayuk Eka , Hafid Fahmi
Published: August 2024

The Healthy Community Movement (GERMAS) efforts are preventive and control measures for Non-Communicable Diseases, especially among adolescents. The shift in disease patterns (epidemiological transition) during the productive age significantly influences future health status. Diseases that can strike during the productive age include stroke, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), cancer, and diabetes, which rank highest among illnesses. The objective of this Community Service activity is to enhance awareness, willingness, and the ability of the community to adopt clean and healthy lifestyles through GERMAS, targeting adolescents aged >15 years. Community Service activities were conducted in the Mamboro Barat Sub-district of North Palu, Palu City. The activities included stretching exercises, communal fruit consumption, educational sessions using informative and interactive leaflets, lectures, weight measurement, height measurement, waist circumference measurement, blood pressure measurement, cholesterol examination, blood sugar examination, and uric acid examination. The results obtained showed that out of 26 participants, 9 individuals had a waist circumference >90, 19.2% were classified as hypertensive, 42.3% had high cholesterol, 23.1% were classified as having diabetes mellitus, and 53.8% were categorized as having high uric acid. Implementing the healthy community movement in adolescents in the Mamboro Sub-district requires attention, especially in promoting a healthy lifestyle by maintaining dietary patterns, consuming vegetables and fruits, and adopting healthy behaviors.
Pengelolaan Potensi Bahaya dan Risiko Kerja pada Pekerja Kampung Maggot Bandar Lampung
Authors: Berawi Khairun Nisa , Karima Nisa , Zahra Tsurayya Fathma , Siregar Maulana Irfan Hazairin , Safira Ditya Ananda , Nurhaliza Suci , Rahmah Azizah Nur , Padmadisastra Jauzaa Faishal Ahmad , Shiddiq Haikal , Christy Angelica Philia , Murfi Syahrani Alya
Published: August 2024

Kampoeng Maggot is a subsidiary of Green Gunter Farm which operates in the livestock and fisheries sector which focuses on the BSF (Black Soldier Fly) maggot cultivation sector. The aim of this PKM is to identify potential hazards at Green Gunter Farm and increase workers' understanding of the importance of protective equipment and work compliance by providing interventions to control these potential hazards. The PKM method is carried out by identifying potential hazards and intervention in the form of counseling and creating work SOPs. The identification results show that the greatest risk of work hazards comes from potential ergonomic hazards due to the uneven terrain. Apart from that, workers are also not used to using complete personal protective equipment due to the lack of adequate SOPs. PKM results show an increase in workers' knowledge and attitudes about personal hygiene, PPE, and the work environment, as well as the availability of SOPs that guide safe work flows to minimize potential hazards and work risks.
Pemeriksaan Lutut dan Sosialisasi Latihan Kekuatan dan Stabilitas Lutut untuk Mencegah Cedera ACL dan Osteoarthritis
Authors: Adhitya I Putu Gde Surya , Winaya I Made Niko , Saraswati Putu Ayu Sita , Thanaya Sayu Aryantari Putri , Suputri Ni Wayan Bintang Mida , Wijaya Gede Wahyu Pratama , Kurniawati Ida
Published: August 2024

Elderly individuals undergo various changes in their social, mental, physical, and body functional aspects. Workers in the agricultural sector, especially in areas like Takmung Village, frequently engage in activities that require prolonged use of the knees. This can increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis and injuries, especially during actions such as kneeling, squatting, or standing for extended periods while working. As a result, many farmers in Takmung Village experience discomfort and pain in their knees. Therefore, the community service activity aims to identify the characteristics of the elderly and enhance knowledge and understanding related to the prevention and management of ACL injuries and knee osteoarthritis. The community service activity was conducted from June to August 2023 at the Banjar Lepang Meeting Hall in Takmung Village, Klungkung Regency, and was attended by 54 productive elderly individuals. The activities began with planning, permit management, coordination meetings, training preparation, socialization implementation, health examinations, and pre-test and post-test evaluations. Out of the 54 elderly participants, 53 showed increased knowledge through pre-test and post-test assessments, while only one experienced a decrease. The impact of the socialization activities resulted in improved knowledge among the elderly regarding methods to prevent ACL injuries and knee osteoarthritis. They also gained awareness of suitable physical exercises to prevent and alleviate symptoms associated with ACL injuries and knee osteoarthritis conditions.
Finding the right spot: laws governing the siting of aquaculture activities
Authors: Markus Till
Published: August 2024

Marine aquaculture has grown enormously in recent decades, and with it the competition for space suitable for aquaculture. These developments have limited the areas available for aquaculture and, in some cases, have become a barrier to expansion. In response, aquaculture operations have moved further away from the coast. This development has created a need for clearer and more robust approaches to more comprehensively describe and secure sites for aquaculture. This article reviews the law governing the siting of aquaculture operations. In particular, it assesses the role of the widely used term “offshore” in the Law of the Sea to see if there are any legal aspects that need to be considered in moving towards the use of more specific concepts. It also aims to inform scientific discussions and political and administrative processes on the law governing the identification, description, and siting of aquaculture operations. This will hopefully contribute to more sustainable and less conflicted long-term aquaculture development.
Small molecule inhibitors of fungal Δ(9) fatty acid desaturase as antifungal agents against Candida auris
Authors: Tebbji Faiza , Menon Anagha C. T. , Khemiri Inès , St-Cyr Daniel J. , Villeneuve Louis , Vincent Antony T. , Sellam Adnane
Published: August 2024

Candida auris has emerged as a significant healthcare-associated pathogen due to its multidrug-resistant nature. Ongoing constraints in the discovery and provision of new antifungals create an urgent imperative to design effective remedies to this pressing global blight. Herein, we screened a chemical library and identified aryl-carbohydrazide analogs with potent activity against both C. auris and the most prevalent human fungal pathogen, C. albicans. SPB00525 [N’-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-5-nitro-furan-2-carbohydrazide] exhibited potent activity against different strains that were resistant to standard antifungals. Using drug-induced haploinsufficient profiling, transcriptomics and metabolomic analysis, we uncovered that Ole1, a Δ(9) fatty acid desaturase, is the likely target of SPB00525. An analog of the latter, HTS06170 [N’-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1,2,3-thiadiazole-5-carbohydrazide], had a superior antifungal activity against both C. auris and C. albicans. Both SPB00525 and HTS06170 act as antivirulence agents and inhibited the invasive hyphal growth and biofilm formation of C. albicans. SPB00525 and HTS06170 attenuated fungal damage to human enterocytes and ameliorate the survival of Galleria mellonella larvae used as systemic candidiasis model. These data suggest that inhibiting fungal Δ(9) fatty acid desaturase activity represents a potential therapeutic approach for treating fungal infection caused by the superbug C. auris and the most prevalent human fungal pathogen, C. albicans.
Tongue color parameters in predicting the degree of coronary stenosis: a retrospective cohort study of 282 patients with coronary angiography
Authors: Li Jieyun , Xiong Danqun , Hong Leixin , Lim Jiekee , Xu Xiangdong , Xiao Xinang , Guo Rui , Xu Zhaoxia
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This retrospective cohort study aimed to analyze the relationship between tongue color and coronary artery stenosis severity in 282 patients after underwent coronary angiography.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to collect data from patients who underwent coronary angiography in the Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Jiading District Central Hospital from October 1, 2023 to January 15, 2024. All patients were divided into four various stenosis groups. The tongue images of each patient was normalized captured, tongue body (TC_) and tongue coating (CC_) data were converted into RGB and HSV model parameters using SMX System 2.0. Four supervised machine learning classifiers were used to establish a coronary artery stenosis grading prediction model, including random forest (RF), logistic regression, and support vector machine (SVM). Accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score were used as classification indicators to evaluate the training and validation performance of the model. SHAP values were furthermore used to explore the impacts of features.

Results

This study finally included 282 patients, including 164 males (58.16%) and 118 females (41.84%). 69 patients without stenosis, 70 patients with mild stenosis, 65 patients with moderate stenosis, and 78 patients with severe stenosis. Significant differences of tongue parameters were observed in the four groups [TC_R (P = 0.000), TC_G (P = 0.003), TC_H (P = 0.001) and TC_S (P = 0.024),CC_R (P = 0.006), CC_B (P = 0.023) and CC_S (P = 0.001)]. The SVM model had the highest predictive ability, with AUC values above 0.9 in different stenosis groups, and was particularly good at identifying mild and severe stenosis (AUC = 0.98). SHAP value showed that high values of TC_RIGHT_R, low values of CC_LEFT_R were the most impact factors to predict no coronary stenosis; high CC_LEFT_R and low TC_ROOT_H for mild coronary stenosis; low TC_ROOT_R and CC_ROOT_B for moderate coronary stenosis; high CC_RIGHT_G and low TC_ROOT_H for severe coronary stenosis.

Conclusion

Tongue color parameters can provide a reference for predicting the degree of coronary artery stenosis. The study provides insights into the potential application of tongue color parameters in predicting coronary artery stenosis severity. Future research can expand on tongue features, optimize prediction models, and explore applications in other cardiovascular diseases.
Long-term outcomes of transcatheter atrial septal defect closure: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Honghiranrueng Lalita , Roymanee Supaporn , Wongwaitaweewong Kanjarut , Jarutach Jirayut , Buntharikpornpun Rujira
Published: August 2024

Background

Transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) closure is the primary approach for treating ASD secundum; however, data on long-term outcomes remain limited. This study aimed to elucidate the prevalence of adverse outcomes following transcatheter ASD closure in a diverse population.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Songklanagarind Hospital and included patients who underwent transcatheter ASD closure between January 2010 and August 2021.

Results

The study included 277 patients who completed follow-up for at least 1 year, with varying ages: <25 years (31%), 25–40 years (19%), 40–60 years (34%), and >60 years (16%). The median follow-up duration was 37 months (interquartile range: 20, 61). The overall mortality rate was 1.8%, and no deaths were attributed to device-related complications. Hospitalization due to heart failure occurred in 0.7% of the cases. Most patients improved or stabilized based on the New York Heart Association functional class. Adverse outcomes included new-onset atrial fibrillation (prevalence: 2.7%) and pulmonary hypertension (prevalence: 0.6%). The resolution of pulmonary hypertension varied among age groups, with 100% resolution in patients <25 years. Multivariate analysis identified male sex, overweight, and history of stroke to be significantly associated with adverse outcomes after transcatheter ASD closure.

Conclusion

Transcatheter ASD closure was safe and effective, with age not being a limiting factor for success. Male sex, being overweight, and a history of stroke were associated with adverse outcomes. These findings contribute to our understanding of the long-term outcomes following ASD closure.
Heat and moisture transport characteristics in permafrost embankment under seasonal rainfall
Authors: Wang Zhanxu , Wang Laifa , Wang Xinyan , Ming Feng
Published: August 2024

The Tibetan Plateau has exhibited a discernible trend towards increased precipitation over the past 50 years. However, previous research predominantly focused on thermal stability of permafrost without the consideration of water flux boundary conditions, and therefore ignored the dynamics of water migration and its impacts on the embankment stability. To bridge this gap, a novel water-heat transfer model incorporating rainfall and water migration was developed and subsequently validated using monitored data. Comparative analyses were then conducted across three distinct rainfall intensities to investigate the variations in the moisture and temperature of superficial soil. Results indicate rainfall events exert a notable cooling effect during warm seasons but have little influence on cooling during cold seasons. By increasing the latent heat of evaporation, sensible heat and reducing the soil heat flux, rainfall results in embankment cooling, and the cooling effect correlates positively with rainfall intensity. Disregarding the water flux boundary conditions will overestimate the embankment temperature and underestimate the variation of water content, especially at the superficial soil. Rainfall results in a decline in water vapor flux and an increase in liquid water flux, which facilitates rapid downward transport and accumulation of liquid water. Despite the increased convective heat transfer of liquid water, the decrease in heat conduction, latent heat of evaporation and convective heat transfer of water vapor in the embankment is more pronounced. Rainfall changes the stability of permafrost embankment mainly by adjusting the energy distribution, which delays temperature increases in the underlying permafrost. When predicting the stability of permafrost, it is recommended to incorporate the water flux boundary conditions.
Triaxial mechanical behaviours of Ili loess after freeze–thaw
Authors: Chu Chunmei , Yang Longwei , Cheng Wenyu , Wang Juncheng , Wang Xiang
Published: August 2024

Loess is strongly sensitive to water, and its properties are substantially affected by weathering and other factors. Loess landslides, which are widely distributed in Ili, are closely related to seasonal freeze–thaw effects. In this study, multiple freeze–thaw cycle tests were conducted on loess samples with different moisture contents from the Ili region, and triaxial shear tests were conducted to study mechanical characteristics of the loess. Variations in the microstructure of the loess samples were analysed using scanning electron microscopy images to reveal the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that the freeze–thaw cycles significantly influence failure mode of the stress–strain curve of loess samples with a lower moisture content of 10%, which transitioned from strain softening to strain hardening with six cycles as the turning point, whereas the stress–strain curve transitioned from strong to weak hardening for the loess samples with higher moisture content of 18%. As the number of freeze–thaw cycles increased, failure strength and shear strength parameters of loess gradually decreased, and tended to stabilize after the 10th cycle. In addition, strength parameters deterioration is most significant after the first cycle, and the degree of cohesion deterioration was much greater than that of internal friction angle. Cohesion and internal friction angle showed attenuation exponential function and polynomial function relationship, respectively, with the number of freeze–thaw cycles, and their fitting parameters underwent a sudden change with increasing moisture content, with 14% as the turning point. Microscopic SEM revealed that the number of overhead pores increased, and point–to–point contact between particles increased after freeze–thaw, which was consistent with increase in of loess porosity. This revealed the fundamental reason for the significant deterioration in loess strength caused by freeze–thaw cycles.
How can eye-tracking data be used to understand cognitive processes when comparing data sets with box plots?
Authors: Abt Martin , Leuders Timo , Loibl Katharina , Strohmaier Anselm R. , Van Dooren Wim , Reinhold Frank
Published: August 2024

Tasks in which learners are asked to compare two data sets using box plots and decide which distribution contains more observations above a given threshold have already been investigated in research. There are indications that these tasks are solved schema-based and that different (correct and erroneous) schemas are used depending on the arrangement of the quartiles around the threshold. Erroneous schemas can cause systematic errors and are often based on typical misconceptions. For example, if learners did not complete the conceptual change and assume that in box plots – like in most other statistical representations (e.g., bar or circle diagrams) - more (box) area also represents more observations, they decide the task according to which box plot shows more box area above the threshold. However, this can lead to incorrect answers, as the box area does not represent frequency but the range of the middle half of the data (interquartile range) and thus a measure of variability. So far, these schema-based reasoning processes have mainly been investigated via differences in solution rates of congruent and incongruent items. The present study investigates whether eye-tracking data can help to better understand which information is processed in the different schemas. Our research interest is based on hypotheses specifying which box plot components are significantly involved in the different schemas. We assume that the gaze patterns of learners using different schemas differ both regarding the number and duration of fixations on the relevant box plot components (areas of interest) and in terms of the number of transitions between them. We asked N = 14 participants to solve congruent and incongruent items and simultaneously collected eye movement data. In the analysis, we first used the solution rates to assign the schemas most likely used. Subsequently, the eye-tracking data were analyzed regarding differences in line with our hypotheses. We found hypothesis-compliant effects in all schemas regarding the number of fixations and transitions, but not regarding fixation duration. These results not only validate the schemas identified in previous studies, but also indicate that the schemas differ primarily in terms of which quartile is focused.
Identification of immune-related endoplasmic reticulum stress genes in proliferative diabetic retinopathy using bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Chen Han , Chen Enguang , Liu Miaomiao , Wang Jianhui , Yin Jiawei , Zhao Peiquan , Xu Yu
Published: August 2024

Background

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is a severe complication of diabetes, and understanding its molecular mechanisms is crucial. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been implicated in various diseases, including diabetic complications. This study aims to elucidate ER stress-related biomarkers in PDR, providing insights into the underlying molecular pathways.

Methods

We analyzed two independent PDR datasets, GSE102485 and GSE60436. The GSE102485 dataset (22 PDR and 3 normal samples) was the primary dataset for comprehensive analyses, including differential expression, functional enrichment, PPI network construction, immune cell infiltration, and drug prediction. The GSE60436 dataset (6 PDR and 3 normal samples) was used for validation. In vitro experiments using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in a high-glucose environment were conducted to validate key bioinformatics outcomes. Western blotting assessed protein levels of ER stress markers (TRAM1 and TXNIP).

Results

Differential expression analysis identified 2451 genes, including 328 ER stress-related genes. Functional analysis revealed enrichment in ER stress-related processes and pathways. Hub genes (BCL2, CCL2, IL-1β, TLR4, TNF, TP53) were identified, and immune infiltration analysis showed altered immune cell proportions. Validation in GSE60436 and in vitro confirmed ER stress gene dysregulation. Drug prediction suggested potential small molecules targeting ER stress markers.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive molecular characterization of ER stress in PDR, highlighting altered biological processes, immune changes, and potential therapeutic targets. The identified hub genes and small molecules offer avenues for further investigation and therapy development, enhancing understanding of PDR pathogenesis and aiding targeted intervention creation.
Synergistically improved cardiovascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with combined treatment of SGLT-2 inhibitors and pioglitazone
Authors: Li Yan-Rong , Wang Chih-Ching , Liu Chi-Hung , Yen Chieh-Li , Wu Victor Chien-Chia , Huang Evelyn Jou-Chen , Lee Ching-Yu , Hsiao Ching-Chung
Published: August 2024

Background

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have cardiovascular (CV) benefits, particularly in reducing the risk of heart failure (HF). Pioglitazone (Pio) has shown potential in decreasing the risks of recurrent stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), and all-cause mortality but increasing risks of HF. Our study aimed to examine the synergistic effects on CV outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who received the combined treatment of SGLT2i and Pio.

Materials and methods

A total of 117,850 patients with T2DM and without a history of HF were selected as the observational study cohort from the Chang Gung Research Database (CGRD) in Taiwan between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2019. The primary composite outcome was 4-point major adverse CV events (4P-MACE), including CV death, non-fatal MI, non-fatal ischemic stroke, and hospitalization for HF. The study was divided into four groups: a combined treatment group in which SGLT2i and Pio were used, two individual groups in which SGLT2i or Pio was used separately, and a reference group (non-study drugs).

Results

Combined treatment of SGLT2i and Pio had the lowest risk of 4P-MACE (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54–0.80) compared with the reference group after a mean follow-up of 2.2 years. There was no significant difference in risks of hospitalization for HF (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.49–1.07) compared with the reference group.

Conclusions

In T2DM patients without HF, the combined treatment with SGLT2i and Pio may synergistically provide CV benefits without increasing risks of HF.
Ferroptosis and iron metabolism in diabetes: Pathogenesis, associated complications, and therapeutic implications
Authors: Jin Eun-Ju , Jo Yunju , Wei Shibo , Rizzo Manfredi , Ryu Dongryeol , Gariani Karim
Published: August 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a complex chronic disease, considered as one of the most common metabolic disorders worldwide, posing a major threat to global public health. Ferroptosis emerges as a novel mechanism of programmed cell death, distinct from apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy, driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation accumulation and GPx4 downregulation. A mounting body of evidence highlights the interconnection between iron metabolism, ferroptosis, and diabetes pathogenesis, encompassing complications like diabetic nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, and neuropathy. Moreover, ferroptosis inhibitors hold promise as potential pharmacological targets for mitigating diabetes-related complications. A better understanding of the role of ferroptosis in diabetes may lead to an improvement in global diabetes management.

In this review, we delve into the intricate relationship between ferroptosis and diabetes development, exploring associated complications and current pharmacological treatments.
Improved droop control strategy for distributed photovoltaic power generation systems
Authors: Zhengwan Deng , Ningyu Gao , Yali Zhu
Published: August 2024

The control strategy of a distributed photovoltaic (PV) power generation system within a microgrid consists of an inner-loop controller and an outer-loop controller. The inner-loop controller is divided into two types, namely, the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control strategy and DC bus voltage support strategy. Switching between these two control strategies results in issues such as DC bus overvoltage, system oscillations, or even PV system failure. An improved droop control strategy with a novel inner-loop controller is proposed, incorporating an output power derivative regulator. The control system unifies MPPT and DC bus voltage support strategy without switching the controller structure. A simulation model is built to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy, and the results show that the ripple of DC bus voltage decreases by more than 60%.
Numerical modeling the impacts of increasing groundwater pumping upon discharge decline of the BL Spring located in Xilin Gol League in east inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Xiao Han , Yang Yu , Liu Qiyuan , Zang Yongge , Lian Xinying , Xia Fu , Jiang Yonghai
Published: August 2024

Spring discharge decline induced by increasing groundwater pumping under the background of increasing water demand for agricultural, industrial, and domestic utilizations has been recognized as a significant geo-environmental issue which poses a great threat to springshed eco-environmental safety. In this study, numerical approach was utilized and a series of 3D groundwater flow models based on the MODFLOW module were developed to simulate current-stage and future trends of spring discharges under the impacts of increasing groundwater pumping due to the rapid development of tourism in the BL spring located in Xilin Gol League in east Inner Mongolia (China), for the purpose of understanding the responses of spring discharges to various groundwater pumping scenarios in future. Simulation results indicated that: (1) spring discharge has reduced from 201.4 m3/d to 193.7 m3/d (reduction ratio of 3.80%) under current-stage pumping scheme; (2) the spring-discharge-affected zone is 2.025 km2 under current-stage pumping scheme and groundwater pumping within this zone contributes to spring discharge decline; (3) impact of the pumping well located nearest to the BL spring is the most significant while impact of the pumping well located farthest to the BL spring is negligible; and (4) spring discharge would reduce 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% if total pumping rate of the seven abstraction wells would increase from 45.8 m3/d (current-stage pumping scheme) to 297.7, 586.2, 888.5, and 1,176 m3/d, respectively. The outcome of this study can provide useful references for advising sustainable groundwater exploitation strategies to meet the requirement of groundwater supply under the premise of spring discharge management and eco-environmental protection.
Spatial and temporal characterization of critical ecosystem services in China’s terrestrial area, 2000–2020: trade-off synergies, driving mechanisms and functional zoning
Authors: Huang Jixing , Yang Shuqi , Zhu Weihan , Lin Jinhuang , Zhu Yanping , Ren Jie , Dai Yongwu , Zhang An
Published: August 2024

Identifying ecosystem service functions, clarifying the spatiotemporal trade-offs and synergies of terrestrial ecosystem services and their driving mechanisms, and exploring differentiated ecological functional zoning are crucial steps in achieving healthy regional ecosystem management, and are conducive to developing diversified ecological restoration strategies, establishing a robust cross-regional collaborative management mechanism, implementing differentiated ecological management strategies, and contributing to the construction of a Beautiful China. This paper, based on the InVEST model, Pearson correlation, GeoDetector, and Spatiotemporal Geographically Weighted Regression models, constructs a spatial quantification model of the trade-offs and synergies among five key ecosystem service functions—habitat quality, soil retention, water conservation, food supply, and carbon sequestration—of China’s terrestrial ecosystems from 2000 to 2020. It explores the influencing factors of terrestrial ecosystem services in China and their spatiotemporal heterogeneity, thereby investigating the future strategies for ecological functional zoning and management of China’s national land space. The results indicate that: (1) during 2000–2020, China’s food supply and soil conservation have increased. However, the habitat quality, water conservation, and carbon sequestration have decreased. (2) Significant spatial and temporal heterogeneities exist in the key ecosystem services of China’s terrestrial ecosystems. (3) Natural, economic, and social factors all impact China’s terrestrial key ecosystem services. Among them, slope, annual average precipitation, land development intensity, and vegetation coverage are the main influencing factors, and different factors exhibit significant spatial heterogeneity. (4) Significant trade-offs/synergy effects among critical terrestrial ecosystem services exist in China. (5) China’s national territory is divided into four ecological protection functional zones: ecological restoration areas, ecological control areas, resilient development areas, and ecological conservation areas, and explores differentiated zoning optimization control paths.
Human sulfotransferase SULT2B1 physiological role and the impact of genetic polymorphism on enzyme activity and pathological conditions
Authors: Alherz Fatemah A.
Published: August 2024

Human SULT2B1gene is responsible for expressing SULT2B1a and SULT2B1b enzymes, which are phase II metabolizing enzymes known as pregnenolone and cholesterol sulfotransferase (SULT), respectively. They are expressed in several tissues and contribute to steroids and hydroxysteroids homeostasis. Genetic variation of the SULT2B1 is reported to be associated with various pathological conditions, including autosomal recessive ichthyosis, cardiovascular disease, and different types of cancers. Understanding the pathological impact of SULT2B1 genetic polymorphisms in the human body is crucial to incorporating these findings in evaluating clinical conditions or improving therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this paper summarized the most relevant reported studies concerning SULT2B1 expression, tissue distribution, substrates, and reported genetic polymorphisms and their mechanisms in enzyme activity and pathological conditions.
Conservation biological control on-farm, using VOCs combined with maintained natural border vegetation for a more unerring and resilient biological control of aphids in cereals
Authors: Thöming Gunda
Published: August 2024

Conservation biological control (CBC) is a sustainable measure for ecological intensification in agriculture to establish and maintain robust natural enemy populations. CBC is contributing to integrated pest management with reduced use of pesticides and support of native biodiversity in agroecosystems. Despite rapidly expanding research on CBC during the last decades, its application in pest management at the farm level is very limited. Here, we tested a CBC strategy in a 5-year on-farm study at three locations in East Norway. This CBC strategy combined two tools to increase biological control of aphids in spring barley; 1-ATTRACT, the application of a volatile organic compound (VOC) attractant that increases lacewing egg laying, and 2-HABITAT, the maintenance of natural border vegetation. We found that the VOC attractants recruited natural enemies and guided them to the right place at the right time from the border vegetation into the cropping area to control the aphid population efficiently and reliably. The results also showed that the VOC attractants combined with periodical maintained natural border vegetation provided a higher lacewing activity and aphid suppression than with annual sown floral buffer strips. We found that maintained natural border vegetation supported by VOC attractants provided lacewing populations that controlled aphids up to 100 m into the cropping area. Without VOC attractants we recorded lacewing activity up to 50 m from the border into the cropping area if natural border vegetation was available, and up to 25 m if no border vegetation existed. The overall results demonstrated the feasibility of this CBC approach under Norwegian farming conditions leading to the successful adoption of this CBC-strategy by the farming community.