bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saúde mental de adultos em situação de rua da cidade de Feira de Santana: Do viver ao adoecer
Authors: Oliveira Erik Cunha de
Published: June 2021

A presença de pessoas que habitam as ruas das grandes cidades brasileiras expressa um fenômeno que se amplia com frequência. Assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar as condições de saúde mental de adultos em situação de rua na cidade de Feira de Santana - Bahia. Para tanto, fez-se necessária a participação voluntária de oito adultos, ambos os gêneros, faixa etária entre 25 e 32 anos de idade, e que tinham as ruas como ambientes de moradia e contexto de socialização. Como instrumentos, foram empregadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com roteiro preestabelecido. Os adultos participantes do estudo apresentaram dados importantes acerca das condições de saúde mental relacionado ao ambiente que vivem ou frequentam, relatando os riscos e vulnerabilidades sociais que se permeiam em sua presença. Além disso, relataram sobre suas escolhas e condições de fatores que levaram ou permitiram estarem nas ruas da cidade. Contudo, adultos em situação de rua é um público que possui alto índice de vulnerabilidade devido às circunstâncias em que se encontram.
ANALISIS KUALITAS LAYANAN E-LEARNING DENGAN METODE SERVICE QUALITY (SERVQUAL) DAN ANALYTICAL HIERARCHY PROCESS (AHP)
Authors: Theresiawati Theresiawati , Zaidiah Ati , Astriratma Ria , Seta Henki Bayu
Published: June 2021

Salah satu indikator keberhasilan pengembangan dan implementasi e-learning pada suatu perguruan tinggi adalah kepuasan pengguna baik dosen maupun mahasiswa. E-learning merupakan metode pembelajaran untuk menunjang proses kegiatan belajar yang dilakukan secara daring. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis kualitas layanan blendeed learning menggunakan metode ServQual (Service Quality) dan AHP (Analytical Hierarchy Process). Metode ServQual untuk mengetahui persepsi dan harapan pengguna blendeed learning berdasarkan perspektif mahasiswa berdasarkan dimensi assurance, empathy, responsiveness, reliability, usability dan informativeness. Untuk meningkatkan kualitas layanan e-learning perlu dilakukan pengukuran kualitas layanan dengan menggunakan metode SERVQUAL (Service Quality), melakukan perhitungan gap skor antara penilaian kualitas layanan yang dirasakan (kinerja) dengan kualitas layanan yang diharapkan. Sedangkan metode AHP (Analytical Hierarchy Process) untuk mengetahui nilai pembobotan dari setiap variabel yang digunakan dalam penelitian. Sehingga upaya peningkatan kualitas pendidikan perguruan tinggi khususnya dapat memenuhi tuntutan dan kepuasan pengguna.
APLIKASI RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM INFORMASI ALUMNI PERGURUAN TINGGI DI KOTA JAYAPURA BERBASIS WEB (STUDI KASUS STMIK UMEL MANDIRI)
Authors: Banyal Nur Ain , Angriani Liza , Surianti Surianti
Published: June 2021

Abtrak Sistem Informasi Alumni merupakan salah satu sistem informasi yang dirancang untuk dapat membantu suatu pekerjaan dari suatu instansi pendidikan khususnya diperguruan tinggi dalam memperoleh data alumni sehingga dapat memberikan data tersebut secara lengkap lewat tersedianya layanan informasi berbasis web. Alumni juga memiliki peranan penting untuk pengembangan institusi pendidikan. Karena alumni bisa berperan sebagai cermin kualitas sebuah institusi pendidikan. Dengan adanya informasi tentang alumni yang baik secara tidak langsung dapat meningkatkan citra baik perguruan tinggi terhadap masyarakat umum. Sampai saat ini masih banyak perguruan tinggi yang belum memanfaatkan penggunaan sistem dalam pendataan dan penelusuran alumni, yang diharapakan mempermudah dalam hal pengolahan data alumni tersebut, selain itu dengan sistem informasi dapat memfasilitasi berbagai keperluan tambahan seperti penelusuran alumni, berita dan informasi kegiatan lowongan kerja. STMIK Umel Mandiri dalam mendata alumninya masih manual dimana alumni hanya mengisi form yang diberikan kepada mahasiswa,Untuk  mempermudah pendataan alumni  STMIK Umel Mandiri, diperlukan suatu sistem informasi yang dapat menginformasikan data alumni. Agar mendapatkan informasi yang akurat dan mudah dalam pengaksesan datanya, oleh karena itu judul penelitian ini adalah “Aplikasi Rancang Bangun Sistem Informasi Alumni Perguruan Tinggi Di Kota Jayapura Berbasis Web”. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah deskriptif dengan melakukan observasi dan survei. Alat yang digunakan adalah Flowchard dan DFD. Dengan database yang digunakan yaitu PHP dan MySQL. Pengujian system dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode Black Box, dari hasil analisis input data bahwa proses input data berjalan lancar kecuali terjadi kesalahan kode yang nanti akan membuat sistem memunculkan pesan error.
KOMBINASI SISTEM BERBASIS WEB DAN ANDROID SEBAGAI APLIKASI PRESENSI KEGIATAN MENGGUNAKAN QR CODE
Authors: Roring Riovan Styx , Sujatmiko FX Nanang
Published: June 2021

Registration and list of attendees are an important factor to be done in formal and informal activities. The purpose is to know the attendees’ personal data and presence. Registration and presence using the manual method such as form filling in a piece of paper produce problem, among them is over excess of paper and time consuming presence activity. Therefore, a new efficient and effective system that take advantage of Android Smartphone and Quick Response Code (QR Code) as Smart Attendance System is needed. The use of Android and QR Code technology simplify registration and presence process so that the proses would be much faster and efficient. The design of QR Code presence application based on Android is using System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) Waterfall model and designed using Use Case Diagram and Entity Relationship Diagram. The presence application is made using combination of two platform, that is Android and web. On the Android Smartphone there are scanner and administrator profile. Whilst at the web platform contain participant, event, and admin database. The existence of the design and Smart Attendance system implementation, registration and list of attendees process will be faster, efficient, and used as on of the smart system to support the smart city is expected.
PENINGKATAN PELAYANAN JASA KONSULTAN LINGKUNGAN HIDUP DENGAN PENGEMBANGAN WEBSITE CV FAHMI JAYA
Authors: Yulindawati Yulindawati , Arfyanti Ita
Published: June 2021

Research on the improvement of environmental consulting services with the development of the CV website. Fahmi  Jaya is a research to make it easier for the public to obtain complete and up-to-date information because information is felt to be very important in making decisions and in achieving goals. In addition to obtaining complete and up-to-date information, the website can also send and publish information to the wider community online. The system development method used in this research is the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) method, or better known as the system development life cycle in system engineering and software engineering, is the process of making and changing systems and the models and methodologies used to develop these systems. The results of the research are expected that this system can publish its activities for more recent information so that the public can find out the activities that have been carried out, the ease of information about CV FAHMI JAYA.
DESIGNING MEASUREMENT OF PH AND WATER TURBIDITY LEVEL BASED ON IOT
Authors: Nursobah Nursobah , Nurhuda Asep , Pukeng Ahmad Fahrijal
Published: June 2021

Research on measuring pH and water turbidity levels based on Internet of Things (IoT) is designed to make it easier for laboratory workers to measure acid and alkaline levels and turbidity levels in water in order to provide fast and efficient service to people who carry out water quality tests. This measuring instrument for pH and water turbidity is based on IoT by utilizing wireless technology in the process of transferring data to a database and using the web as the output media for measuring water content. The system development method used in this research is Prototype. The first stage in this method is to listen to the customer as a form of gathering the needs for the tools to be built, then the second stage is to design and make a prototype that is tailored to the needs of the tools that have been defined previously and the third stage is the prototype trial carried out by the customer by adjusting the request and then providing feedback on the tools developed
Biomarkers in diagnosis of IBD: yesterday, today, tomorrow
Authors: Bikbavova G. R. , Livzan M. A. , Novikov D. G.
Published: June 2021

Diagnosis, determination of the degree of activity of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and prediction of the response to therapy is based on a comprehensive approach, including clinical, laboratory, endoscopic and histological methods of research. The possibility of using laboratory biomarkers of ulcerative colitis (UC) in practice is characterized by a great potential for solving such problems as early diagnosis of the disease, monitoring the course and predicting the response to therapy. The Committee on Selecting Therapeutic Targets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (STRIDE) recommends the use of targeted strategies for the treatment of UC from the perspective of the individual needs of the patient. Restoring intestinal permeability will play an important role in the treatment of IBD. It is known that a violation of intestinal permeability is associated with changes in the content of zonulin in the blood serum and in the feces. Currently, most methods of studying the permeability of the muco-epithelial barrier are used only for scientific purposes. The review highlights the current view on the possibility of using existing biomarkers in the diagnosis of UC in practice. The results of a pilot study in which the level of zonulin in the feces was determined in patients with diagnosed UC are presented.
Features of NSAIDs' use in pandemic. Gastroenterologist's view
Authors: Sas E. I.
Published: June 2021

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are drugs used to treat acute and chronic pain associated primarily with inflammatory changes. This group of drugs is widely used in neurology, rheumatology, traumatology, etc. The main mechanism of action of the drugs is associated with the effect on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and blockade of the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (PG), as well as the effect on COX-1 and suppression of the synthesis of cytoprotective PG, which determines the possibility of side effects from the gastrointestinal tract. In the pandemic, the use of this group of drugs has increased many times over. Features of the clinical course of both the viral infection itself and the use of other drugs leads to a significant change in the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of NSAIDs, which may lead to the development of undesirable side effects.
INTEGRASI FMEA DALAM PENERAPAN QUALITY CONTROL CIRCLE (QCC) UNTUK PERBAIKAN KUALITAS PROSES PRODUKSI PADA MESIN TENUN RAPIER
Authors: Syahrullah Yudi , Izza Milenia Rahma
Published: June 2021

PT. Pajitex is one of the textile industries that produce sarongs and continues to strive to fulfill customer desires through quality sarong products. During the sarong production process, there are still various product defects that can reduce consumer confidence in the resulting sarong products. Therefore, PT. Pajitex strives to reduce the number of defects that occur in the sarong manufacturing process by exploring various causes of defects. The purpose of this study was to analyze the defective edge on the CR3082 plate using the Quality Control Circle (QCC) method. The QCC method is a quality control system through the 8-step method with a continuous improvement system. At the defect search stage, use quality control tools such as Pareto diagrams and fishbone diagrams, and use the Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) method to obtain the highest RPN value which is a priority in the improvement proposal, and in determining the improvement proposal using the PDCA Methods. Based on the results of the analysis obtained, the cutter cutting and the needling process are not perfect and the tuck-in setting is not precise has the highest RPN value, which is equal to 120, so this activity needs to be monitored and followed up
ANALISIS PENINGKATAN KUALITAS PELAYANAN BONGKAR MUAT BARANG DI PELABUHAN PROBOLINGGO (Studi Kasus PT Delta Arta Bahari Nusantara Cabang Probolinggo)
Authors: Trilaksono Ardhian , Sudarso Indung
Published: June 2021

PT Delta Arta Bahari Nusantara is a regional-owned company owned by the East Java region as a loading and unloading operator for the Probolinggo port trying to improve port operation services, one of the efforts that has been made is building port facilities. There is an increase in loading and unloading activities of superior commodities, it is necessary to increase the quality. Efforts to maintain service quality of a company must analyze and serve data and information accordingly from data and measurements, in this case, product suitability and customer satisfaction levels. The purpose of this research is to measure the service quality of PT Delta Arta Bahari Nusantara uses 5 service quality dimensions, the measurement results (gap) between customer perceptions and expectations are evaluated by the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) method. Furthermore, based on the policy (gap) and QFD, strategies are formulated that must be carried out. The results of the analysis showed that all dimensions resulted in a satisfaction level of "less satisfied" (Gap value between -1.5 to -2.25) which means that in all dimensions of satisfaction, customer service ratings provided by PT Delta Arta Bahari Nusantara is not satisfied with meeting expectations. There are 5 indicators that require immediate improvement. Indicators that require the main priority for improvement are the condition and capacity of the dumping yard as well as the facilities and infrastructure, the layout of the stacking field facilities. Recommendations that can be given by the management are evaluating the maximum capacity with the number of storage for goods to determine the addition of the storage area, making improvements to the layout of the facilities and completing if there are lack of public facilities.
Faba Bean Variety Mixture Can Modulate Faba Bean–Wheat Intercrop Performance Under Water Limitation
Authors: Bargaz Adnane , Nasielski Joshua , Isaac Marney E. , Jensen Erik S. , Carlsson Georg
Published: June 2021

Commercial legume varieties vary in terms of their drought tolerance when grown as sole crops, though relatively little is known about how legume variety selection affects cereal–legume intercrop performance under drought conditions. This study aims to test the hypothesis that positive rhizosphere interactions in faba bean–wheat intercrops will confer a “buffering capacity” on faba bean and wheat performance under water stress and that this effect will (i) depend on faba bean varietal selection and (ii) be enhanced with increasing faba bean varietal diversity. In a greenhouse experiment, three commercial faba bean (Vicia faba L.) varieties [Gloria (G), Alexia (A), Julia (J)] were grown in sole crop or intercropped with spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under well-watered or water-stress conditions. Under intercropping, either one, two, or all three faba bean varieties were grown together with wheat to test the effect of intraspecific diversity on a cereal–legume intercrop performance. Consistent with the proposed hypothesis, we found that, under well-watered and water-stress conditions, wheat and faba bean shoot biomass production and nitrogen (N) acquisition improved with intercropping and that faba bean variety and variety mixture strongly modulated the intercropping effect. Interestingly, in both well-watered and water-stress conditions, wheat dry biomass and N accumulation were greatest in intercrops containing Gloria, while nodule number, nodule weight, and N accumulation in faba bean were greatest for intercrops containing Alexia and Julia (AJ). The effect of varietal diversity was inconsistent. Intercrops with two faba bean varieties tended to have positive or neutral effects on measured wheat and faba bean variables. However, overall performance under intercropping was generally reduced when all three faba bean varieties were planted with wheat. The effect of faba bean species diversity can buffer faba bean–wheat intercrop performance against water stress, and intercropping tended to have positive or neutral effects on the measured wheat and faba bean variables, notably with two-varietal faba bean mixtures.
Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Protein: Roles in Signal Transduction in T Cells
Authors: Ngoenkam Jatuporn , Paensuwan Pussadee , Wipa Piyamaporn , Schamel Wolfgang W. A. , Pongcharoen Sutatip
Published: June 2021

Signal transduction regulates the proper function of T cells in an immune response. Upon binding to its specific ligand associated with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules on an antigen presenting cell, the T cell receptor (TCR) initiates intracellular signaling that leads to extensive actin polymerization. Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp) is one of the actin nucleation factors that is recruited to TCR microclusters, where it is activated and regulates actin network formation. Here we highlight the research that has focused on WASp-deficient T cells from both human and mice in TCR-mediated signal transduction. We discuss the role of WASp in proximal TCR signaling as well as in the Ras/Rac-MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase), PKC (protein kinase C) and Ca2+-mediated signaling pathways.
Allergen-Specific Treg Cells Upregulated by Lung-Stage S. japonicum Infection Alleviates Allergic Airway Inflammation
Authors: Li Zhidan , Zhang Wei , Luo Fang , Li Jian , Yang Wenbin , Zhu Bingkuan , Wu Qunfeng , Wang Xiaoling , Sun Chengsong , Xie Yuxiang , Xu Bin , Wang Zhaojun , Qian Feng , Chen Jiaxu , Wan Yanmin , Hu Wei
Published: June 2021

Schistosoma japonicum infection showed protective effects against allergic airway inflammation (AAI). However, controversial findings exist especially regarding the timing of the helminth infection and the underlying mechanisms. Most previous studies focused on understanding the preventive effect of S. japonicum infection on asthma (infection before allergen sensitization), whereas the protective effects of S. japonicum infection (allergen sensitization before infection) on asthma were rarely investigated. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of S. japonicum infection on AAI using a mouse model of OVA-induced asthma. To explore how the timing of S. japonicum infection influences its protective effect, the mice were percutaneously infected with cercaria of S. japonicum at either 1 day (infection at lung-stage during AAI) or 14 days before ovalbumin (OVA) challenge (infection at post–lung-stage during AAI). We found that lung-stage S. japonicum infection significantly ameliorated OVA-induced AAI, whereas post–lung-stage infection did not. Mechanistically, lung-stage S. japonicum infection significantly upregulated the frequency of regulatory T cells (Treg cells), especially OVA-specific Treg cells, in lung tissue, which negatively correlated with the level of OVA-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE). Depletion of Treg cells in vivo partially counteracted the protective effect of lung-stage S. japonicum infection on asthma. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis of lung tissue showed that lung-stage S. japonicum infection during AAI shaped the microenvironment to favor Treg induction. In conclusion, our data showed that lung-stage S. japonicum infection could relieve OVA-induced asthma in a mouse model. The protective effect was mediated by the upregulated OVA-specific Treg cells, which suppressed IgE production. Our results may facilitate the discovery of a novel therapy for AAI.
An Examination of the Putative Role of Melatonin in Exosome Biogenesis
Authors: Amini Hassan , Rezabakhsh Aysa , Heidarzadeh Morteza , Hassanpour Mehdi , Hashemzadeh Shahriar , Ghaderi Shahrouz , Sokullu Emel , Rahbarghazi Reza , Reiter Russel J.
Published: June 2021

During the last two decades, melatonin has been found to have pleiotropic effects via different mechanisms on its target cells. Data are abundant for some aspects of the signaling pathways within cells while other casual mechanisms have not been adequately addressed. From an evolutionary perspective, eukaryotic cells are equipped with a set of interrelated endomembrane systems consisting of intracellular organelles and secretory vesicles. Of these, exosomes are touted as cargo-laden secretory vesicles that originate from the endosomal multivesicular machinery which participate in a mutual cross-talk at different cellular interfaces. It has been documented that cells transfer various biomolecules and genetic elements through exosomes to sites remote from the original cell in a paracrine manner. Findings related to the molecular mechanisms between melatonin and exosomal biogenesis and cargo sorting are the subject of the current review. The clarification of the interplay between melatonin and exosome biogenesis and cargo sorting at the molecular level will help to define a cell’s secretion capacity. This review precisely addresses the role and potential significance of melatonin in determining the efflux capacity of cells via the exosomal pathway. Certain cells, for example, stem cells actively increase exosome efflux in response to melatonin treatment which accelerates tissue regeneration after transplantation into the injured sites.
Reaction Monitoring and Structural Characterisation of Coordination Driven Self-Assembled Systems by Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Lloyd Williams Oscar H. , Rijs Nicole J.
Published: June 2021

Nature creates exquisite molecular assemblies, required for the molecular-level functions of life, via self-assembly. Understanding and harnessing these complex processes presents an immense opportunity for the design and fabrication of advanced functional materials. However, the significant industrial potential of self-assembly to fabricate highly functional materials is hampered by a lack of knowledge of critical reaction intermediates, mechanisms, and kinetics. As we move beyond the covalent synthetic regime, into the domain of non-covalent interactions occupied by self-assembly, harnessing and embracing complexity is a must, and non-targeted analyses of dynamic systems are becoming increasingly important. Coordination driven self-assembly is an important subtype of self-assembly that presents several wicked analytical challenges. These challenges are “wicked” due the very complexity desired confounding the analysis of products, intermediates, and pathways, therefore limiting reaction optimisation, tuning, and ultimately, utility. Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry solves many of the most challenging analytical problems in separating and analysing the structure of both simple and complex species formed via coordination driven self-assembly. Thus, due to the emerging importance of ion mobility mass spectrometry as an analytical technique tackling complex systems, this review highlights exciting recent applications. These include equilibrium monitoring, structural and dynamic analysis of previously analytically inaccessible complex interlinked structures and the process of self-sorting. The vast and largely untapped potential of ion mobility mass spectrometry to coordination driven self-assembly is yet to be fully realised. Therefore, we also propose where current analytical approaches can be built upon to allow for greater insight into the complexity and structural dynamics involved in self-assembly.
Recent Advances in Hollow Gold Nanostructures for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Park Jeong-Min , Choi Hye Eun , Kudaibergen Dauletkerey , Kim Jae-Hyuk , Kim Ki Su
Published: June 2021

The localized surface plasmon resonance of metallic nanoparticles has attracted much attention owing to its unique characteristics, including the enhancement of signals in sensors and photothermal effects. In particular, hollow gold nanostructures are highly promising for practical applications, with significant advantages being found in their material properties and structures: 1) the interaction between the outer surface plasmon mode and inner cavity mode leads to a greater resonance, allowing it to absorb near-infrared light, which can readily penetrate tissue; 2) it has anti-corrosiveness and good biocompatibility, which makes it suitable for biomedical applications; 3) it shows a reduced net density and large surface area, allowing the possibility of nanocarriers for drug delivery. In this review, we present information on the classification, characteristics, and synthetic methods of hollow gold nanostructures; discuss the recent advances in hollow gold nanostructures in biomedical applications, including biosensing, bioimaging, photothermal therapy, and drug delivery; and report on the existing challenges and prospects for hollow gold nanostructures.
StuA-Regulated Processes in the Dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum: Transcription Profile, Cell-Cell Adhesion, and Immunomodulation
Authors: Bitencourt Tamires A. , Neves-da-Rocha João , Martins Maira P. , Sanches Pablo R. , Lang Elza A. S. , Bortolossi Julio C. , Rossi Antonio , Martinez-Rossi Nilce M.
Published: June 2021

Fungal infections represent a significant concern worldwide, contributing to human morbidity and mortality. Dermatophyte infections are among the most significant mycoses, and Trichophyton rubrum appears to be the principal causative agent. Thus, an understanding of its pathophysiology is urgently required. Several lines of evidence have demonstrated that the APSES family of transcription factors (Asm1p, Phd1p, Sok2p, Efg1p, and StuA) is an important point of vulnerability in fungal pathogens and a potential therapeutic target. These transcription factors are unique to fungi, contributing to cell differentiation and adaptation to environmental cues and virulence. It has recently been demonstrated that StuA plays a pleiotropic role in dermatophyte pathophysiology. It was suggested that it functions as a mediator of crosstalk between different pathways that ultimately contribute to adaptive responses and fungal-host interactions. The complex regulation of StuA and its interaction pathways are yet to be unveiled. Thus, this study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of StuA-regulated processes in T. rubrum by assessing global gene expression following growth on keratin or glucose sources. The data showed the involvement of StuA in biological processes related to central carbon metabolism and glycerol catabolism, reactive oxygen species metabolism, and cell wall construction. Changes in carbohydrate metabolism may be responsible for the significant alteration in cell wall pattern and consequently in cell-cell interaction and adhesion. Loss of StuA led to impaired biofilm production and promoted proinflammatory cytokine secretion in a human keratinocyte cell line. We also observed the StuA-dependent regulation of catalase genes. Altogether, these data demonstrate the multitude of regulatory targets of StuA with a critical role in central metabolism that may ultimately trigger a cascade of secondary effects with substantial impact on fungal physiology and virulence traits.
Risk Stratification for Atrial Fibrillation and Outcomes in Tachycardia-Bradycardia Syndrome: Ablation vs. Pacing
Authors: Zhang Rongfeng , Wang Yue , Yang Minghui , Yang Yiheng , Wang Zhengyan , Yin Xiaomeng , Dong Yingxue , Yu Xiaohong , Xiao Xianjie , Gao Lianjun , Xia Yunlong
Published: June 2021

Background: Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation is an alternative treatment for patients with tachycardia-bradycardia syndrome (TBS) to avoid pacemaker implantation. The risk stratification for atrial fibrillation and outcomes between ablation and pacing has not been fully evaluated.

Methods: This retrospective study involved 306 TBS patients, including 141 patients who received catheter ablation (Ablation group, age: 62.2 ± 9.0 months, mean longest pauses: 5.2 ± 2.2 s) and 165 patients who received pacemaker implement (Pacing group, age: 62.3 ± 9.1 months, mean longest pauses: 6.0 ± 2.3 s). The primary endpoint was a composite of call cause mortality, cardiovascular-related hospitalization or thrombosis events (stroke, or peripheral thrombosis). The second endpoint was progress of atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

Results: After a median follow-up of 75.4 months, the primary endpoint occurred in significantly higher patients in the pacing group than in the ablation group (59.4 vs.15.6%, OR 6.05, 95% CI: 3.73–9.80, P < 0.001). None of deaths was occurred in ablation group, and 1 death occurred due to cancer. Cardiovascular-related hospitalization occurred in 50.9% of the pacing group compared with 14.2% in the ablation group (OR: 4.87, 95% CI: 2.99–7.95, P < 0.001). More thrombosis events occurred in the pacing group than in the ablation group (12.7 vs. 2.1%, OR 6.06, 95% CI: 1.81–20.35, P = 0.004). Significant more patients progressed to persistent atrial fibrillation in pacing group than in ablation group (23.6 vs. 2.1%, P < 0.001). The NYHA classification of the pacing group was significantly higher than that of the ablation group (2.11 ± 0.83 vs. 1.50 ± 0.74, P < 0.001). The proportion of antiarrhythmic drugs and anticoagulants used in the pacing group was significantly higher than that in the ablation group (41.2 vs. 7.1%, P < 0.001; 16.4 vs. 2.1%, P = 0.009).

Conclusion: Catheter ablation for patients with TBS was associated with a significantly lower rate of a composite end point of cardiovascular related hospitalization and thromboembolic events. Furthermore, catheter ablation reduced the progression of atrial fibrillation and heart failure.
Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Supra-Glacial Ponds and Ice Cliffs on Verde Glacier, Chile
Authors: Loriaux Thomas , Ruiz Lucas
Published: June 2021

Known for their important role in locally enhancing surface melt, supraglacial ponds and ice cliffs are common features on debris-covered glaciers. We use high resolution satellite imagery to describe pond-cliff systems and surface velocity on Verde debris-covered glacier, Monte Tronador, and Southern Chile. Ponds and ice cliffs represent up to 0.4 and 2.7% of the glacier debris-covered area, respectively. Through the analyzed period and the available data, we found a seasonality in the number of detected ponds, with larger number of ponds at the beginning of the ablation season and less at the end of it. Using feature tracking, we determined glacier surface velocity, finding values up to 55 m/yr on the upper part of the debris-covered area, and decreasing almost to stagnation in the terminus. We found that larger ponds develop in glacier zones of low velocity, while zones of high velocity only contain smaller features. Meanwhile, ice cliffs appeared to be less controlled by surface velocity and gradient. Persistent ice cliffs were detected between 2009 and 2019 and backwasting up to 24 m/yr was measured, highlighting significant local glacier wastage.
Implementing Tablets in Norwegian Primary Schools. Examining Outcome Measures in the Second Cohort
Authors: Krumsvik Rune J. , Berrum Erling , Jones Lise Øen , Gulbrandsen Ingrid P.
Published: June 2021

This study examines the implementation of tablets in primary schools in Norway. The outcome measures in the study are external for the intervention and are recorded data from national tests (National reading, arithmetic and English Tests, Classes 5, 8, and 9, National Mapping Tests for reading and arithmetic, Classes 1–3, and the 2014–2017 National Pupil Survey). The entire study (N = 15, 708) relies on an explanatory, sequential mixed-methods design and in this study we examine the quantitative effects of this implementation. The results indicate that in several school areas tablets have rather limited effect on pupils learning outcome. However, there were both some negative- and positive effects of tablets on several of the outcome measures. It seems that tablets contribute more positively to boys’ school achievements than to girls’ school achievements. The effect of introducing tablets is significantly positive for boys in fifth grade in English (as in the first cohort from 2015/2016). This might also be linked to a “spill over-effect” from outside school learning where the significantly positive results for boys in fifth grade in English can be interpreted as a sign of the times where English language immersion in leisure time (e.g., gaming, youtube, etc.) among boys are continuously developing. For boys, we also find positive significant effects on well-being, common rules, and assessment for learning, while in girls we find positive and significant effects on mastering, teacher support, and assessment for learning. From the study, we find some tendencies that when the use of tablets is supported by teachers who have high digital competence, their use seems to have a small equalizing effect between the school achievements of boys and girls. However, we cannot rule out that a grade effect and informal learning may also have an impact on the results, and we therefore request that the results be read with this reservation.
Impact of Incretin Hormone Receptors on Insulin-Independent Glucose Disposal in Model Experiments in Mice
Authors: Ovlund Tina , Pacini Giovanni , Ahrén Bo
Published: June 2021

A large contribution to glucose elimination from the circulation is achieved by insulin-independent processes. We have previously shown that the two incretin hormones, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) increase this process and, therefore, seem to contribute to glucose disposal both through this effect and through the classical incretin effect resulting in enhanced insulin levels. We have now explored in more detail the potential contribution by incretin hormone receptors to insulin-independent processes for glucose elimination. To that end, we have performed intravenous glucose tests (0.35g/kg) in C57BL/6J mice and analyzed glucose elimination rate and glucose effectiveness (i.e., insulin-independent glucose disposal, SG) in wildtype mice and in mice with genetic deletion of GIP receptors or GLP-1 receptors. We performed studies with or without complete blockade of insulin secretion by the drug diazoxide (25 mg/kg). The mice were anesthetized with a novel fentanyl citrate/fluanisone formulation, called Fluafent, together with midazolam. Initially we demonstrated that glucose and insulin data after intravenous and oral glucose were not different using this anesthesia compared to the previously commonly used combination of HypnormR and midazolam. The results show that SG was reduced in GLP-1 receptor knockout mice, whereas there was no difference between GIP receptor knockout mice and wildtype mice, and this was evident both under normal conditions and after complete inhibition of insulin secretion. The study therefore indicates that insulin-independent glucose elimination requires active GLP-1 receptors and thus that the two incretin hormone receptor types show dissociated relevance for this process.
Safety Analysis of Small Modular Natural Circulation Lead-Cooled Fast Reactor SNCLFR-100 Under Unprotected Transient
Authors: Guo Chao , Zhao Pengcheng , Deng Jian , Yu Hongxing
Published: June 2021

SNCLFR-100 is a small modular natural circulation lead-cooled fast reactor, developed by University of Science and Technology of China, aiming at taking full advantage of the good economics and inherent safety of lead-cooled fast reactors to develop miniaturized, lightweight and multi-purpose special nuclear reactor technology. SNCLFR-100 is still in the conceptual design stage, in order to fully evaluate the safety features of the reactor and provide reference for the optimization design of the next stage, three typical transients are selected based on the analysis of the SNCLFR-100 initiating events by using the code Analysis of Thermal-hydraulics of Leaks and Transients (ATHLET), which are unprotected transient overpower (UTOP), unprotected loss of heat sink (ULOHS) and unprotected partial blockage in the hottest fuel assembly. For UTOP, the unexpected positive reactivity insertion of 0.7$ in 15s led to two large power peaks in the core quickly, and then the core power began to decrease and gradually stabilized under the action of various of negative feedbacks of the reactor, the peak temperatures of fuel and cladding rose rapidly with the increase of core power and eventually stabilized at a higher temperature. For ULOHS, as the reactor were driven by natural circulation, the coolant mass flow rate continued to decline after the transient, both core and cladding temperatures rose quickly and the temperature rise were smaller than that of UTOP transient, the reactor shutdown by itself and the peak temperatures of fuel and cladding were smaller than the safety limit. For unprotected partial blockage in the hottest fuel assembly, with the increase of the blockage rate of the hottest fuel assembly inlet, the coolant flow rate, the peak temperatures of coolant, fuel and cladding increased significantly, when the blockage rate increased to 0.9, the coolant flow rate of the hottest fuel assembly dropped to about 12.6% of the normal value, and the cladding peak temperature would exceed the cladding melting point, measures should be taken to avoid the happening of severe accident.
Evidence of Wing Shape Sexual Dimorphism in Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus in Mallorca, Spain
Authors: López-Mercadal Júlia , Barretto Bruno Wilke André , Barceló Carlos , Miranda Miguel Angel
Published: June 2021

The Asian tiger mosquitoAedes albopictus(Skuse, 1894) is a highly invasive species widely distributed on the Spanish Mediterranean coast and the Balearic archipelago. Most studies involving this species in Spain have been focused on surveillance and control methods. However, micro-evolutionary studies forAe. albopictusin Spain have been traditionally neglected. Morphological diversity could be the result of long-term evolutionary diversification in responses to selective pressures such as temperature, precipitation, food availability, predation, or competition that may influence flight activity, host-seeking, and blood-feeding behavior. Wing geometric morphometric have been used not only to study micro- and macro-evolution in mosquitoes but also in studies of population structuring and sexual dimorphism. Therefore, the main goal of this study was to investigate the wing shape patterns ofAe. albopictuspopulations to unveil sexual dimorphism that could provide information about their ecology and behavior. Mosquito eggs were collected using oviposition traps at the main campus of the University of the Balearic Islands (Palma de Mallorca, Spain) and reared under laboratory conditions. In order to study wing shape variation patterns inAe. albopictusmales and females, the left wing of each adult mosquito was removed and analyzed based on 18 landmarks. Our results indicated strong levels of sexual dimorphism betweenAe. albopictusmales and females. Furthermore, according to the cross-validated reclassification test, males were correctly distinguished from females with an accuracy of 84% and females from males 75%. We observed a significant sexual dimorphism in the wing shape patterns ofAe. albopictuswhen considering different seasonal patterns (spring vs. autumn). Our results suggested that selective pressures may affect males differently to females. Host-seeking, blood-feeding, and oviposition behavior of females may act as a major driver for wing shape sexual dimorphism. These results should be considered for the development of more effective and targeted mosquito control strategies.
Genotype-Phenotype Associations in Patients With Type-1, Type-2, and Atypical NF1 Microdeletions
Authors: Büki Gergely , Zsigmond Anna , Czakó Márta , Szalai Renáta , Antal Gréta , Farkas Viktor , Fekete György , Nagy Dóra , Széll Márta , Tihanyi Marianna , Melegh Béla , Hadzsiev Kinga , Bene Judit
Published: June 2021

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is a tumor predisposition syndrome inherited in autosomal dominant manner. Besides the intragenic loss-of-function mutations in NF1 gene, large deletions encompassing the NF1 gene and its flanking regions are responsible for the development of the variable clinical phenotype. These large deletions titled as NF1 microdeletions lead to a more severe clinical phenotype than those observed in patients with intragenic NF1 mutations. Around 5-10% of the cases harbor large deletion and four major types of NF1 microdeletions (type 1, 2, 3 and atypical) have been identified so far. They are distinguishable in term of their size and the location of the breakpoints, by the frequency of somatic mosaicism with normal cells not harboring the deletion and by the number of the affected genes within the deleted region. In our study genotype-phenotype analyses have been performed in 17 mostly pediatric patients with NF1 microdeletion syndrome identified by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification after systematic sequencing of the NF1 gene. Confirmation and classification of the NF1 large deletions were performed using array comparative genomic hybridization, where it was feasible. In our patient cohort 70% of the patients possess type-1 deletion, one patient harbors type-2 deletion and 23% of our cases have atypical NF1 deletion. All the atypical deletions identified in this study proved to be novel. One patient with atypical deletion displayed mosaicism. In our study NF1 microdeletion patients presented dysmorphic facial features, macrocephaly, large hands and feet, delayed cognitive development and/or learning difficulties, speech difficulties, overgrowth more often than patients with intragenic NF1 mutations. Moreover, neurobehavior problems, macrocephaly and overgrowth were less frequent in atypical cases compared to type-1 deletion. Proper diagnosis is challenging in certain patients since several clinical manifestations show age-dependency. Large tumor load exhibited more frequently in this type of disorder, therefore better understanding of genotype-phenotype correlations and progress of the disease is essential for individuals suffering from neurofibromatosis to improve the quality of their life. Our study presented additional clinical data related to NF1 microdeletion patients especially for pediatric cases and it contributes to the better understanding of this type of disorder.
M2a Macrophage-Secreted CHI3L1 Promotes Extracellular Matrix Metabolic Imbalances via Activation of IL-13Rα2/MAPK Pathway in Rat Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Li Long , Wei Kang , Ding Yifan , Ahati Paerxiati , Xu Haoran , Fang Huang , Wang Huan
Published: June 2021

The accumulation of macrophages in degenerated discs is a common phenomenon. However, the roles and mechanisms of M2a macrophages in intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) have not been illuminated. This study investigated the expression of the M2a macrophage marker (CD206) in human and rat intervertebral disc tissues by immunohistochemistry. To explore the roles of M2a macrophages in IDD, nucleus pulposus (NP) cells were co-cultured with M2a macrophages in vitro. To clarify whether the CHI3L1 protein mediates the effect of M2a macrophages on NP cells, siRNA was used to knock down CHI3L1 transcription. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, NP cells were incubated with recombinant CHI3L1 proteins, then subjected to western blotting analysis of the IL-13Rα2 receptor and MAPK pathway. CD206-positive cells were detected in degenerated human and rat intervertebral disc tissues. Notably, M2a macrophages promoted the expression of catabolism genes (MMP-3 and MMP-9) and suppressed the expression of anabolism genes (aggrecan and collagen II) in NP cells. These effects were abrogated by CHI3L1 knockdown in M2a macrophages. Exposure to recombinant CHI3L1 promoted an extracellular matrix metabolic imbalance in NP cells via the IL-13Rα2 receptor, along with activation of the ERK and JNK MAPK signaling pathways. This study elucidated the roles of M2a macrophages in IDD and identified potential mechanisms for these effects.
Beyond Binding: The Outcomes of Antibody-Dependent Complement Activation in Human Malaria
Authors: Rathnayake Dilini , Aitken Elizabeth H. , Rogerson Stephen J.
Published: June 2021

Antibody immunity against malaria is effective but non-sterile. In addition to antibody-mediated inhibition, neutralisation or opsonisation of malaria parasites, antibody-mediated complement activation is also important in defense against infection. Antibodies form immune complexes with parasite-derived antigens that can activate the classical complement pathway. The complement system provides efficient surveillance for infection, and its activation leads to parasite lysis or parasite opsonisation for phagocytosis. The induction of complement-fixing antibodies contributes significantly to the development of protective immunity against clinical malaria. These complement-fixing antibodies can form immune complexes that are recognised by complement receptors on innate cells of the immune system. The efficient clearance of immune complexes is accompanied by complement receptor internalisation, abrogating the detrimental consequences of excess complement activation. Here, we review the mechanisms of activation of complement by alternative, classical, and lectin pathways in human malaria at different stages of thePlasmodiumlife cycle with special emphasis on how complement-fixing antibodies contribute to protective immunity. We briefly touch upon the action of anaphylatoxins, the assembly of membrane attack complex, and the possible reasons underlying the resistance of infected erythrocytes towards antibody-mediated complement lysis, relevant to their prolonged survival in the blood of the human host. We make suggestions for further research on effector functions of antibody-mediated complement activation that would guide future researchers in deploying complement-fixing antibodies in preventive or therapeutic strategies against malaria.
Causes of Mortality for Endangered Antillean Manatees in Cuba
Authors: Alvarez-Alemán Anmari , García Alfonso Eddy , Powell James A. , Jacoby Charles A. , Austin James D. , Frazer Thomas K.
Published: June 2021

The Antillean manatee is categorized as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature primarily due to its low abundance. Further declines in abundance are expected due to a group of human related threats that include illegal hunting, fatal interactions with fishing gear, increasing watercraft traffic, and pollution. The nature of current threats is not well described for every critical population of manatees. In particular, threats to manatees have not been documented or evaluated in a systematic manner in coastal waters surrounding Cuba, which is a major reason why plans specifically addressing conservation of manatees in Cuba have not been implemented. To address this lack of information, we assessed patterns in various threats by reviewing reports of stranded (alive or dead) and captured manatees, with some reports being historical and others consistently available since 2001. For 94% of the contemporary cases, carcasses of dead animals were reported; the remainder (6%) involved live manatees and subsequent efforts to rescue and rehabilitate them. Documented causes of mortality included poaching (38%), entanglement in fishing gear (10%), deaths of dependent calves (2.5%), and boat collisions (2.5%). The cause of death for the remaining 47% of reports could not be determined. Mortalities were highest in areas with intensive commercial fishing effort, and mortalities in marine protected areas indicated a need for improved management. These initial findings provide the first estimates of the magnitude of mortality of manatees in Cuba and yield valuable insights into the causes of deaths. The existence of intense and poorly regulated fishing in certain areas, including protected areas, represents a potentially significant threat to manatees. The effects and management of this activity, especially in habitats that are critical for manatees, merit further attention.