bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANALISIS KOMPARASI ANTARA PENGGUNA SISTEM REGISTRASI WEB-BASED DAN NONWEB-BASED DALAM PENERIMAAN INOVASI TEKNOLOGI INFORMASI
Authors: Nuhoni Nalurita  , Hendrian Hendrian
Published: June 2022

This research investigated the behavioral differences between web-based registration system’s users and manual registration system’s users. There are several difference characteristics of each user, for instance; Personal Innovativeness in the domain of Information Technology (PIIT), attitude, usefulness, ease of use, subjective norm, behavioral control, facilitating condition, and self efficacy. The samples of this research are university students in Yogyakarta. The result of this research shows that web-based registration system’s users has higher PIIT, higher positive attitude, higher subjective norm, higher behavioral control, higher facilitating condition, and higher self efficacy than manual registration system’s user. There’s no difference between manual registration system’s users and web-based registration system’s users for the usefulness perception and ease of use
REPOSITIONING TOURISM IN INDONESIA USING CONCEPTUAL MODEL OF STRATEGIC MARKETING
Authors: Ginting Ginta
Published: June 2022

Tulisan ini mengetengahkan suatu model untuk mereposisi sektor pariwisata di Indonesia dengan menekankan pada pengembangan strategi pemasaran. Pengembangan model ini lebih melihat pada aspek kontekstual strategis. Bahasan terfokus pada repositioning pariwisata dengan menggunakan tiga tahapan strategis: analisis situasi saat ini, proses dan implementasi. Beberapa teori pemasaran seperti differentiation, segmentation dan positioning digunakan sebagai pendekatan untuk mengidentifikasi persepsi dan preferensi konsumen terhadap produk dan service yang dihasilkan oleh sektor pariwisata. Paradigma ‘cultur base’ yang melandasi teori ini menggunakan pendekatan konsep experience marketing yang menekankan pada sisi keatraktifan dan keunikan dalam menciptakan competitive advantage. Model ini diharapkan dapat bermanfaat dalam memecahkan problem sektor pariwisata secara komprehensif.
DAMPAK KEBIJAKAN DESENTRALISASI FISKAL TERHADAP TRANSFORMASI EKONOMI DI PROVINSI JAWA BARAT
Authors: Arief Dirgantoro Muhammad , Mangkuprawira S , Siregar H , Sinaga B.M
Published: June 2022

The objectives of this research are : (1) to analyze structural economic transformation in West Java Province, (2) to analyze linkage inter sector on economic transformation process inter farm, industry and other sectors, (3) to analyze impact of fiscal decentralization to economic growth and structure economic transformation in West Java Province.   In order to answer the above, a simultaneous equity model was established, consisting of 32 structural equities and 15 identity equities. Furthermore, this research used data pooling where data were analyzed with descriptive analysis, econometrics model, as well as predictions using a variety of policy scenario alternatives.  Model was then estimated by 2SLS method with SYSLIN procedures, while prediction simulation was performed by using SIMNLIN procedures.  In its development era, West Java province have done transformation of economy.  During this economy structure transformation process, the decrease on agricultural sector contribution was automatically increase contribution on industry, but it was not increase contribution on other sector.  The increase on local taxes receipt gave positive impact on output growth, and it gave economy structure transformation.  The increase personel current expenditure gave positive impact on agriculture output growth and economic ratio.  The increase development expenditure for agriculture gave positive impact on output growth agriculture and economic ratio, but it gave negative impact on total output growth.  The increase expenditure for infrastructure gave positive impact on output growth, ang it gave economy structure transformation.
HIV PREVALENCE AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
Authors: Yayuk Priyati Rini
Published: June 2022

Dalam perkembangannya, HIV/AIDS bukan hanya menjadi masalah kesehatan, tetapi juga menjadi masalah sosial dan ekonomi. Kenyataannya, lebih dari 90 persen kasus HIV/AIDS ditemukan di Negara Sedang Berkembang (NSB), utamanya di Negara-negara Sub-Sahara Afrika. Hal ini menimbulkan pemikiran umum bahwa ada hubungan yang sangat erat antara HIV/AIDS dengan masalah-masalah sosial ekonomi seperti kemiskinan dan tingkat pendidikan. Dalam beberapa literatur dikemukakan bahwa pada banyak kasus di Afrika, terdapat hubungan positif antara HIV/ AIDS dan tingkat pendapatan dan tingkat pendidikan. Ini berarti bahwa, semakin tinggi taraf hidup masayarakat Afrika, semakin rentan pula mereka terhadap infeksi HIV/AIDS. Hal ini tentu bertentangan dengan pandangan yang umum di terima. Hal sebaliknya terjadi pada kasus Negara-negara Asia. Argumen yang masuk akal adalah, HIV/AIDS terjadi di Afrika ketika banyak orang belum mengetahui penyebab dan cara penyebarannya, padahal HIV/AIDS sangat berhubungan dengan gaya hidup dan mobilitas masyarakat. Masyarakat kelas menegah di Afrika adalah masyarakat yang lebih mobile dari kelompok lainnya, mereka umumnya tinggal di perkotaan atau di daerah perbatasan dengan Negara lain (sebagian besar Negara Afika tidak memiliki perbatasan laut/ landlock), sehingga resiko untuk terinfeksi menjadi lebih tinggi. Tidak seperti beberapa literatur yang membahas masalah HIV/AIDS di Afrika dengan kasus Negara per Negara, artikel ini mencoba mendekati permasalahan dengan analisis yang lebih makro, mencakup semua Negara Sub-Sahara, semua kelompok umur, dan lintas gender. Hasilnya adalah tidak adanya hubungan yang jelas antara banyaknya kasus HIV dan pendapatan per kapita. Sedangkan, pada kasus tingkat pendidikan, terdapat hubungan yang positif tetapi hubungan tersebut tidak linier.
KAJIAN KOMPETENSI ANGGOTA DEWAN PERWAKILAN RAKYAT DAERAH KABUPATEN - KOTA SUKABUMI, PROVINSI JAWA BARAT
Authors: Wahyuningsih Tiesnawati , Krida Sakti Sri Wahyu
Published: June 2022

The overall picture of the regional legislative members competency both in the regency or in the city of Sukabumi to do their function in legislatory, budgetary, and supervisory showed very critical condition to be well fixed in immediate constructs. The intellectual capacity as well as the standard behavior and technical skills to produce local regulations are still pretty weak. Generally speaking the local legislative members knowledgebility about their three main tasks and functions which are to do with local economic development, local tax and retribution, also the creation of condusive business entrepreneurship climate, all of them have lommed to be very sluggish. More substancially, the mastery of basic competencies to do with the settlement of local budgeting and revenue planning are still being handycap. This research discusses the profile of those of three main synergetic competences of local legislative members in Sukabumi, both the city and the regency. The three main synergetic competences of that of local legislative members cover local-law-legislation, local-development-supervision, and local-budgeting. More specifically, those three main variables of legislative competence were also analyzed by using five parameters of competence which are technical, managerial, strategical, social, and ethical.
PENERAPAN METODE CREDITRISK+ DALAM PENGUKURAN RISIKO KREDIT KENDARAAN BERMOTOR (KASUS PADA PT X)
Authors: Meilani Any
Published: June 2022

Identify and measure credit risk by using a method in accordance with the characteristics of finance companies is one of a prudent first step in minimizing potential losses. Potential losses can be seen from the Non Performing Loan (NPL) and recovery rate of the company. Credit risk measurement remains important as preventive and anticipatory measures for a finance company in managing the potential consumer default in fulfilling their obligations. By using 36 months of credit risk in motor vehicles (2006-2008) which includes the number of units of motor vehicles, the amount of exposure, collectability and recovery rate can be calculated expected Loss, unexpected loss and economic capital. Results showed that both the expected Loss and unexpected loss from year to year increase. Also with the economic capital increases annually. However, if the economic value associated with authorized capital owned by PT "X" each year, it can be concluded that the capital is still sufficient to cover possible losses caused by credit default unexpected losses. Testing the model using back testing and Likelihood Ratio, indicates that during the observation period the number of adverse events "X" with the level of losses that exceed the value of the vehicle financing credit VaR is still below the threshold amount of loss that can be tolerated. In other words the risk measurement method using a motor vehicle financing CreditRisk+ is acceptable and accurate enough to measure the risk of motor vehicle financing PT "X".
AKUNTANSI PERPAJAKAN DALAM PENGGABUNGAN USAHA (Studi Kasus Pada Perusahaan Listed Di BEI)
Authors: Hendrian Hendrian , Muktiyanto Ali
Published: June 2022

In accounting, there are two methods used in recording business combinations i.e purchase and pooling of interest method. Purchase method has ameasurable indication with the withdrawal of cash beside the cost of business combination and stock issuance costs incurred by the company buyer. In addition to that, there will be changes of ownership. The assets acquired by a business entity are recorded and recognized at market value. As a consequence, the excess of fixed assets will be recorded as goodwill. Meanwhile if the business combination uses the pooling of interest method, then the amount of assets, debts and rights of shareholders that are reported by the affiliated companies will be recognized in accordance with its book value. APB No.16 notes that there are 12 requirements that must be met when using pooling of interest method. If it does not meet any of these requirements then the combined companies must use the purchase method. There is no goodwill in pooling interest method. It means that in the merger process there is no obligation to pay taxes since it based on book value and no goodwill.
ANALISIS PERAN DAN FUNGSI SISTEM PENGENDALIAN INTERN PEMERINTAH (SPIP/PP NO.60 TAHUN 2008) DALAM MEMINIMALISASI TINGKAT SALAH SAJI PENCATATAN AKUNTANSI KEUANGAN PEMERINTAH DAERAH
Authors: Mulyani Pujianik , Suryawati Rindah F
Published: June 2022

This research examines the role and function of internal control system of government institutions in minimalizing accounting misstatement. Using qualitative descriptive research method, the object of this study incorporates the local government of Kabupaten Bojonegoro for the financial statements of year 2007-2009. The results shows that the increase quality of the Badan Pemeriksa Keuangan (BPK) opinion about financial statements of Kabupaten Bojonegoro were influenced by the improvement of internal control system function and optimalization of internal auditor role in every Satuan Kerja Perangkat Daerah (SKPD) in Kabupaten Bojonegoro. This research supports previous findings that internal control system has significant function and role in minimalizing accounting misstatement.
ANALISIS PENERAPAN STATISTICAL QUALITY CONTROL PADA BEBAN USAHA PT. PLN
Authors: Ayuni Devi
Published: June 2022

PT. PLN (Persero) is fully responsible for the fulfillment of national electricity. The study was attempted to find out the difference of actual expenses compared to operating expenses in 2005-2006, 2006 -2007, and 2007-2008 at PT. PLN (Persero) and the application of Statistical Analysis Quality Control as one of cost control method. The study focused on the comparation of operating expenses and operating costs. This research used descriptive quantitative analysis. It was found that the plants of PLTGU were always greater than other plant. Based on the control chart, it could be seen that the UCL was Rp 14,292,399 (million) and the LCL was Rp 5,576,779 (million) permonth. It was suggested that PT PLN (Persero) control over its operating costs, so the leakage of operational costs can be avoided. For fiscal year 2010, PT PLN (Persero) should conduct an investigation towards its operational costs by using the Statistical Quality Control.

PT. PLN (Persero) bertanggung jawab sepenuhnya atas pemenuhan kebutuhan listrik negara. Penelitian ini berusaha untuk mendapatkan informasi besarnya selisih pergerakan Realisasi Beban Usaha/Biaya Operasional tahun 2005-2006, 2006-2007, dan 2007-2008 pada PT. PLN (Persero) dan penerapan Statistical Quality Control terhadap beban usaha/biaya operasional PT PLN (Persero) sehingga dapat dijadikan sebagai salah satu cara pengendalian biaya. Studi ini berfokus pada perbandingan antara beban operasional dengan biaya operasional. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis deskriptif kuantitatif. Penelitian ini menemukan bahwa pembangkit PLTGU selalu lebih besar dari jenis pembangkit lainnya. Berdasarkan peta kendali, dapat dilihat bahwa UCL adalah Rp 14.292.399 (juta) dan LCL adalah Rp 5.576.779 (juta) per-bulan. Disarankan agar PT PLN (Persero) dapat mengontrol biaya operasional sehingga kebocoran biaya operasional dapat dihindari. Untuk tahun fiskal 2010, PT PLN (Persero) harus melakukan investigasi terhadap biaya operasional dengan menggunakan metode Quality Control secara statistik
PENGARUH KOMITMEN TERHADAP PERUBAHAN PADA INTENSI KELUAR
Authors: Widaharthana I Putu Esa
Published: June 2022

This study was attempted to explain individual responses to change and further review the implementation of the components of any changes related to the success of organizational change. The data were analyzed using simple and hierarchical regression analysis to test the relationships among commitment to change, coping with change, and turnover intention. The results demonstrated that 5 out of 10 hypothesis were supported. The results were also demonstrated that coping with change mediate the negative relationship between commitment to organizational change and turnover intention.

Penelitian ini berusaha menjelaskan respon individu untuk mengubah dan selanjutnya mengkaji pelaksanaan komponen dari setiap perubahan yang berkaitan dengan keberhasilan perubahan organisasi. Data dianalisis dengan analisis regresi sederhana dan analisis regresi hirarkis untuk menguji hubungan antara komitmen terhadap perubahan, mengatasi perubahan, dan niat keluar. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa 5 dari 10 hipotesis didukung. Hasil juga menunjukkan bahwa mengatasi perubahan memediasi hubungan negatif antara komitmen terhadap perubahan organisasi dan niat keluar.
PENGARUH ORIENTASI WIRAUSAHA DAN KAPABILITAS JEJARING USAHA TERHADAP PENINGKATAN KINERJA UKM DENGAN KOMITMEN PERILAKU SEBAGAI VARIABEL INTERVIENING (Studi Empiris pada Sentra UKM Batik di Sragen, Jawa Tengah)
Authors: Lukiastuti Fitri
Published: June 2022

In order to be able to seize the opportunities that a dynamic operating environment opens up, entrepreneurial SMEs have to reconfigure their existing asset base and processes. This study explores the effect of behavioral commitment on entrepreneurial orientation process and a firms reconfiguring network capabilities on performance by using survey data from 105 owners/manajers of batik SMEs in Sragen batik centrer, Central Java. Our findings indicate that indirectly, a SMEs entrepreneurial orientation have higher influence on SMEs performance through behavioral commitment; and reconfiguring network capabilities have an effect on its international performance and provide empirical support for the dynamic capability view of the firm. Entrepreneurial orientation process combined with behavioral commitment reconfiguring capabilities constitutes a potential source of competitive advantage.

Dalam rangka untuk mendapatkan peluang usaha di lingkungan yang dinamis dan terbuka, UKM yang berorientasi wirausaha harus mengkonfigurasi lagi proses-proses bisnis dan asset yang dimiliki saat ini. Studi ini mengeksplorasi pengaruh komitmen perilaku terhadap proses orientasi wirausaha dan pengaruh konfigurasi kapabilitas jejaring perusahaan/UKM terhadap kinerja usaha. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode survey. Data yang digunakan berasal dari 105 pemilik/manajer UKM batik di sentra batik Kabupaten Sragen. Temuan dari penelitian ini adalah: secara tidak langsung orientasi wirausaha mempunyai pengaruh yang lebih besar terhadap kinerja usaha UKM yang dimediasi oleh variabel komitmen perilaku; dan rekonfigurasi kapabilitas jejaring usaha mempunyai pengaruh terhadap kinerja internasionalnya dan memberikan bukti dukungan empiris terhadap pandangan kapabilitas dinamis perusahaan. Proses orientasi wirausaha dikombinasikan dengan komitmen perilaku mekonfigurasi lagi kapabilitas yang menjadi sumber potensial keunggulan daya saing.
ANALISIS PENGARUH TINGKAT PENGUNGKAPAN TERHADAP LIKUIDITAS SAHAM
Authors: Irma Irma
Published: June 2022

Penelitian ini berfokus pada pengaruh tingkat pengungkapan informasi perusahaan terhadap tingkat likuiditas saham yang diwakili oleh indikator-indikatornya seperti spread relatif, total depth dan depth to relatif spread. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan analisis konten dalam menghasilkan indeks pengungkapan dengan menggunakan data saham perusahaan yang terdaftar di Kompas 100. Analisis regresi digunakan dalam menguji pengaruh tingkat pengungkapan terhadap likuiditas saham. Dari hasil penelitian, ditemukan bahwa tingkat pengungkapan memiliki hubungan negatif dengan spread relatif, artinya adalah semakin tinggi tingkat pengungkapan informasi perusahaan, maka tingkat spreadrelatif saham akan semakin rendah. Sebaliknya semakin tinggi tingkat pengungkapan informasi, maka tingkat total depth dan depth to relatif spread saham akan semakin tinggi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa spread relatif yang rendah, total depth yang tinggi dan depth to relatif spread yang tinggi menghasilkan likuiditas saham yang tinggi juga. Kesimpulannya, pengungkapan informasi yang dilakukan oleh perusahaan pada laporan tahunan masih menjadi perhatian investordalam berinvestasi.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of disclosure level on liquidity indicators, such as relative spread, total depth, and depth to relative spread.This study adopts content analysis approach in generating disclosure index using data from annual reports of firm listed in Kompas 100. This study uses regression analysis in testing the effect of disclosure level to liquidity indicators.This study provide empirical evidence to support the effect of disclosure level to liquidity indicators. This study finds that firms with higher disclosures have lower relative bid-ask spreads, higher total depth, and higher depth to relative spread, resulting in unambiguous conclusion regarding disclosure quality and disclosure quality. These result lead to a conclusion that disclosure in annual reports still be a matter of consideration interest and important to investor.
White Paper on European Patient Needs and Suggestions on Chronic Type 2 Inflammation of Airways and Skin by EUFOREA
Authors: De Prins Louise , Raap Ulrike , Mueller Tara , Schmid-Grendelmeier Peter , Haase Christiane H. , Backer Vibeke , Fokkens Wytske , Benoist Linda B. , Prokopakis Emmanuel , Doulaptsi Maria , Hopkins Claire , Claeys Nele , Teeling Thijs , Cypers Lindsay , Cools Leen , Bjermer Leif H. , Diamant Zuzana , Wahn Ulrich , Scadding Glenis , Bachert Claus , Walther Peter , Patel Sunni R. , Van Staeyen Elizabeth , Hellings Peter
Published: June 2022

Background

Type 2 inflammation underlies the chronicity of disease in subgroups of patients with asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and atopic dermatitis (AD), that often co-exist. Although several studies have investigated the unmet needs of asthma, AD and CRSwNP as such, little is known about the similarities and differences in experiences and perspectives of the current management of patients with comorbid Type 2 inflammatory diseases.

Aims

To improve insight into the common and organ-specific needs of patients with Type 2 inflammation and comorbidities, allowing the formulation of recommendations to better address these needs in the future.

Methodology

This qualitative study was conducted between July 2021 and December 2021 using semi-structured face-to-face or telephone interviews with patients suffering from year-long severe chronic Type 2 inflammation and at least one co-morbid inflammatory condition. Seven participating academic centers in Europe interviewed asthma (Copenhagen and Leuven), CRSwNP (London, Amsterdam and Crete) and/or AD (Oldenburg and Zurich) patients on patient characteristics, disease severity, shortcomings of current care pathways and suggestions for improvement of care. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach.

Results

Eighty-one patients with severe Type 2 inflammation and comorbidities were interviewed. Similar needs were recognized by patients with Type 2 inflammation, with both a lack of coordination in care and a lack of a real cure reported as being most frustrating. However, several needs are specific to asthma, CRSwNP and AD. Suggestions for improvement of care were generic across diseases, such as the implementation of a multidisciplinary approach, the improved facilitation of access to better treatments, the increase of general awareness on disease burden, and better educational programs for healthcare providers and patients. Of note, patients with CRSwNP also stated the need for alternatives to sinus surgery, whereas patients with asthma requested better medical care to prevent exacerbations and patients with AD would warmly welcome the reimbursement of emollients.

Conclusion

Patients with asthma, CRSwNP and AD have shared unmet needs that need to be addressed by physicians, the academic community and health policy makers. This survey provides unique recommendations made by patients for the implementation of better care.
Multivariate Analysis of Drivers of Migration, Challenges, and Prediction of Future Scenarios of Female Ethiopian Return Migrants From the Middle East
Authors: Ebrahim Endris Assen , Biru Belay Zeleke
Published: June 2022

The Migration of Ethiopians to Middle Eastern countries has become a common phenomenon. Research emphasizing aspects of Migration in Ethiopia has focused on the causes of Migration and the situation in the host country. But there has been no focus on future intentions of forced mass return. The internal instability of Ethiopia is also another issue for returnees staying in their homeland. Thus, this cross-sectional mixed research reveals the causes, challenges, and expectations of forced female returnee migrants in the Amhara region while they were in Migration to the Middle East, during work, and upon arrival to the homeland, as well as their future intention/plan/ after return in the homeland by applying factor analysis and binary logistic regression model. The study participants in this research were 346 forced female returnees from the Middle East selected with multistage sampling and two key informants from each study area's labor and social affairs office. Findings indicate that robbery, extortion, and lack of accommodation were challenges during Migration; verbal abuse, restricted mobility, and communication, no days off at work, and not receiving a wage for work were challenges during work in the Middle East. Besides, lack of happiness, lack of employment and support, and feeling inferiority and low self-esteem are challenges for return migrants after coming to their homeland. Most return migrants received continuous social counseling training, skill training, and entrepreneurship training. The study also reveals that currently married returnees have a significant positive intention to live in their homeland. Though, deprived economic and joblessness-related factors are statistically significant as the negative chance to live in the homeland. Lastly, the study recommends that close cooperation between all parties, governmental and non-governmental institutions, UN organizations like IOM, ILO, and other NGOs are needed to better reintegration and living of these forced returnees.
ContactPFP: Protein Function Prediction Using Predicted Contact Information
Authors: Kagaya Yuki , Flannery Sean T. , Jain Aashish , Kihara Daisuke
Published: June 2022

Computational function prediction is one of the most important problems in bioinformatics as elucidating the function of genes is a central task in molecular biology and genomics. Most of the existing function prediction methods use protein sequences as the primary source of input information because the sequence is the most available information for query proteins. There are attempts to consider other attributes of query proteins. Among these attributes, the three-dimensional (3D) structure of proteins is known to be very useful in identifying the evolutionary relationship of proteins, from which functional similarity can be inferred. Here, we report a novel protein function prediction method, ContactPFP, which uses predicted residue-residue contact maps as input structural features of query proteins. Although 3D structure information is known to be useful, it has not been routinely used in function prediction because the 3D structure is not experimentally determined for many proteins. In ContactPFP, we overcome this limitation by using residue-residue contact prediction, which has become increasingly accurate due to rapid development in the protein structure prediction field. ContactPFP takes a query protein sequence as input and uses predicted residue-residue contact as a proxy for the 3D protein structure. To characterize how predicted contacts contribute to function prediction accuracy, we compared the performance of ContactPFP with several well-established sequence-based function prediction methods. The comparative study revealed the advantages and weaknesses of ContactPFP compared to contemporary sequence-based methods. There were many cases where it showed higher prediction accuracy. We examined factors that affected the accuracy of ContactPFP using several illustrative cases that highlight the strength of our method.
Healing Field: Using Alternating Electric Fields to Prevent Cytokine Storm by Suppressing Clonal Expansion of the Activated Lymphocytes in the Blood Sample of the COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Abadijoo Hamed , Khayamian Mohammad Ali , Faramarzpour Mahsa , Ghaderinia Mohammadreza , Simaee Hossein , Shalileh Shahriar , Yazdanparast Seyed Mojtaba , Ghabraie Bahman , Makarem Jalil , Sarrami-Forooshani Ramin , Abdolahad Mohammad
Published: June 2022

In the case of the COVID-19 early diagnosis, numerous tech innovations have been introduced, and many are currently employed worldwide. But, all of the medical procedures for the treatment of this disease, up to now, are just limited to chemical drugs. All of the scientists believe that the major challenge toward the mortality of the COVID-19 patients is the out-of-control immune system activation and the subsequent cytokine production. During this process, the adaptive immune system is highly activated, and many of the lymphocytes start to clonally expand; hence many cytokines are also released. So, any attempt to harness this cytokine storm and calm down the immune outrage is appreciated. While the battleground for the immune hyperactivation is the lung ambient of the infected patients, the only medical treatment for suppressing the hypercytokinemia is based on the immunosuppressor drugs that systemically dampen the immunity with many unavoidable side effects. Here, we applied the alternating electric field to suppress the expansion of the highly activated lymphocytes, and by reducing the number of the renewed cells, the produced cytokines were also decreased. Applying this method to the blood of the COVID-19 patients in vitro showed ∼33% reduction in the average concentration of the three main cytokines after 4 days of stimulation. This method could carefully be utilized to locally suppress the hyperactivated immune cells in the lung of the COVID-19 patients without any need for systemic suppression of the immune system by the chemical drugs.
Early and Midterm Outcomes of Type II Hybrid Arch Repair for Complex Aortic Arch Pathology
Authors: Liu Yanxiang , Zhang Bowen , Liang Shenghua , Dun Yaojun , Guo Hongwei , Qian Xiangyang , Yu Cuntao , Sun Xiaogang
Published: June 2022

Background

The hybrid arch repair (HAR) is an appealing surgical option in the management of aortic arch diseases. The aim is to evaluate the short and mid-term outcomes of type II HAR involving replacement of the ascending aorta, arch debranching, and zone 0 stent graft deployment in diverse arch pathologies.

Methods

200 patients with various diffuse aortic pathologies involving the arch were enrolled between 2016 and 2019. Complex arch diseases included acute type A dissection (n = 129, 64.5%), acute type B dissection (n = 16, 8.0%), aortic arch aneurysm (n = 42, 21.0%) and penetrating arch ulcer (n = 13, 6.5%). Mortality, morbidity, survival and re-intervention were analyzed.

Results

The overall 30-day mortality rate was 8.0% (16/200). Stroke was present in 3.5% (7/200) of the general cohort and spinal cord injury was occurred in 3.0% (6/200). Multivariable logistic analysis showed that cardiac malperfusion and CPB time were the risk factors associated with 30-day mortality. The mean follow-up duration was 25.9 months (range 1–57.2 months), and the 3-year survival rate was 83.1%. On Cox regression analysis, age, diabetes, cardiac malperfusion and CPB time predicted short and mid-term overall mortality. A total of 3 patients required reintervention during the follow-up due to the thrombosis of epiaortic artificial vessels (n = 1), anastomotic leak at the site of the proximal ascending aorta (n = 1) and the type I endoleak (n = 1).

Conclusions

Type II HAR was performed with satisfactory early and mid-term outcomes in complex aortic arch pathologies.
Invasive Hemodynamic Assessment and Procedural Success of Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve Repair—Important Factors for Right Ventricular Remodeling and Outcome
Authors: Dannenberg Varius , Koschutnik Matthias , Donà Carolina , Nitsche Christian , Mascherbauer Katharina , Heitzinger Gregor , Halavina Kseniya , Kammerlander Andreas A. , Spinka Georg , Winter Max-Paul , Andreas Martin , Mach Markus , Schneider Matthias , Bartunek Anna , Bartko Philipp E. , Hengstenberg Christian , Mascherbauer Julia , Goliasch Georg
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a common condition promoting right heart failure and is associated with a poor long-term prognosis. Transcatheter tricuspid valve repair (TTVR) emerged as a low-risk alternative to surgical repair techniques. However, patient selection remains controversial, particularly regarding the benefits of TTVR in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Aim

We aimed to investigate the impact of preprocedural invasive hemodynamic assessment and procedural success on right ventricular (RV) remodeling and outcome.

Methods

All patients undergoing TTVR with a TR reduction of ≥1 grade without precapillary or combined PH [mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) ≥25 mmHg, mean pulmonary artery Wedge pressure ≤ 15 mmHg, pulmonary vascular resistance ≥3 Wood units] were assigned to the responder group. All patients with a TR reduction of ≥1 grade and precapillary or combined PH were classified as non-responders. Patients with a TR reduction ≥2 grade were directly classified as responders, and patients without TR reduction were directly assigned as non-responders.

Results

A total of 107 patients were enrolled, 75 were classified as responders and 32 as non-responders. We observed evidence of significant RV reverse remodeling in responders with a decrease in RV diameters (−2.9 mm, p = 0.001) at a mean follow-up of 229 days (±219 SD) after TTVR. RV function improved in responders [fractional area change (FAC) + 5.7%, p < 0.001, RV free wall strain +3.9%, p = 0.006], but interestingly further deteriorated in non-responders (FAC −4.5%, p = 0.003, RV free wall strain −3.9%, p = 0.007). Non-responders had more persistent symptoms than responders (NYHA ≥3, 72% vs. 11% at follow-up). Subsequently, non-response was associated with a poor long-term prognosis in terms of death, heart failure (HF) hospitalization, and re-intervention after 2 years (freedom of death, HF hospitalization, and reintervention at 2 years: 16% vs. 78%, log-rank: p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Hemodynamic assessment before TTVR and procedural success are significant factors for patient prognosis. The hemodynamic profiling prior to intervention is an essential component in patient selection for TTVR. The window for edge-to-edge TTVR might be limited, but timely intervention is an important factor for a better outcome and successful right ventricular reverse remodeling.
Abnormal Liver Function Tests Were Related to Short- and Long-Term Prognosis in Critically Ill Patients With Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Wang Dayu , Huang Suiqing , Xu Guangtao , Wu Sha , Liu Zhen , Xu Long , Hu Bo , Hou Jian
Published: June 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the utility of liver function tests (LFTs) in predicting the prognosis of critically ill patients with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) with/without liver disease.

Methods

We retrieved the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC-III) database to acquire clinical data. From the database, we recruited adult patients that were equal to or older than 18 years with primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) discharge from intensive care unit (ICU). Then, the relationship between LFTs and duration of hospitalization and ICU stays was examined based on the Spearman correlation. The chi-square assessment was conducted to examine the correlation between LFTs and death rates. Survival curves were plotted with the aid of the Kaplan-Meier technique, and the curves were subsequently compared utilizing the log-rank test. The LFTs were identified as independent predictive variables of death according to the results of multivariable logistic regression. The specificity and sensitivity for mortality were calculated utilizing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the curve (AUC).

Results

In total, 198 patients satisfying the inclusion criteria were recruited, among which there were 23 patients with liver disease. Only ALB was correlated with the length of ICU stay in the total PPH group. ALB independently served as a risk variable for hospital mortality and 90-day mortality and was significantly associated with 90-day and 4-year survival rates in both total PPH and PPH without liver disease. AST was correlated with hospital mortality and 90-day survival curves in both total PPH and PPH without liver disease and independently served as a risk factor for hospital and 90-day mortality only in the total PPH group. ALT independently acted as a risk variable for hospital mortality and total bilirubin was correlated with hospital mortality in the total group. The diagnostic performance of the predictive model combining the LFTs was moderately good for the hospital, 90-day, and 4-year mortality. Both Modelı End-Stage ıLiverı Disease (MELD) score and albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) score were independent risk factors for short- and long-term prognosis. And they were also significantly associated with short- and long-term prognosis.

Conclusion

Among critically ill patients with PPH and with or without liver illness, aberrant LFT was linked to short- and long-term prognoses.
Drilling Cores and Geophysical Characteristics of Gas Hydrate-Bearing Sediments in the Production Test Region in the Shenhu sea, South China sea
Authors: Liang Jin , Meng Miaomiao , Liang Jinqiang , Ren Jinfeng , He Yulin , Li Tingwei , Xu Mengjie , Wang Xiaoxue
Published: June 2022

Gas hydrate production testing was conducted in 2017 in the Shenhu Area in the northern part of the South China Sea, and unprecedented success was achieved. In order to obtain gas production and physical properties of gas hydrate reservoirs in the study area and determine the location of test production wells, the seismic and logging data and drilling cores were analyzed in detail, the physical characteristics of the sediments, faults, gas components, and reservoir were studied. The results show that 1) the gas hydrates are diffusion type, with reservoirs dominated by clayey silt sediments, and the gas hydrate-bearing layers are characterized by soup-like, porridge-like, cavity, and vein structures; 2) the resistivity and acoustic velocity of gas hydrate formation are significantly higher than those of the surrounding sediments, while the neutron porosity, density, and natural gamma are slightly lower; the Bottom Simulating Reflectors (BSRs) in seismic profiles exhibit the exist of gas hydrates; 3) gas chimneys and faults are well-developed beneath the BSRs, and hydrocarbon gases can easily migrate into the gas hydrate reservoirs in areas with stable temperature and pressure conditions; 4) the gas hydrate saturation is high, the highest saturation in site W17 was up to 76%, with an average of 33%; while the highest saturation in site W19 was up to 68%, with an average of 31%. The gas source is considered as mixed gas of thermogenic gas and microbial gas. By comparing the core samples and geophysical characteristics of sites W17 and W19 in the study area and calculating the thickness, distribution area, and saturation of the hydrate deposition layer, it was found that site W17 is characterized by a thick layer, large area, high saturation, and good sealing, and thus, site W17 was established as the test production site. The development of gas chimney and faults provides pathways for the upward migration of deep gas, and the gas migrates to gas hydrate stable zone in forms of diffusion, water soluble and free state, forming high saturation of diffusion gas hydrates.
Sertoli and Germ Cells Within Atrophic Seminiferous Tubules of Men With Non-Obstructive Azoospermia
Authors: Jensen Christian Fuglesang Skjødt , Wang Danyang , Mamsen Linn Salto , Giwercman Aleksander , Jørgensen Niels , Fode Mikkel , Ohl Dana , Dong Lihua , Hildorf Simone Engmann , Pors Susanne Elisabeth , Fedder Jens , Ntemou Elissavet , Andersen Claus Yding , Sønksen Jens
Published: June 2022

Background

Infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) have impaired spermatogenesis. Dilated and un-dilated atrophic seminiferous tubules are often present in the testes of these patients, with the highest likelihood of active spermatogenesis in the dilated tubules. Little is known about the un-dilated tubules, which in NOA patients constitute the majority. To advance therapeutic strategies for men with NOA who fail surgical sperm retrieval we aimed to characterize the spermatogonial stem cell microenvironment in atrophic un-dilated tubules.

Methods

Testis biopsies approximately 3x3x3 mm3 were obtained from un-dilated areas from 34 patients. They were classified as hypospermatogenesis (HS) (n=5), maturation arrest (MA) (n=14), and Sertoli cell only (SCO) (n= 15). Testis samples from five fertile men were included as controls. Biopsies were used for histological analysis, RT-PCR analysis and immunofluorescence of germ and Sertoli cell markers.

Results

Anti-Müllerian hormone mRNA and protein expression was increased in un-dilated tubules in all three NOA subtypes, compared to the control, showing an immature state of Sertoli cells (p<0.05). The GDNF mRNA expression was significantly increased in MA (P=0.0003). The BMP4 mRNA expression showed a significant increase in HS, MA, and SCO (P=0.02, P=0.0005, P=0.02, respectively). The thickness of the tubule wall was increased 2.2-fold in the SCO-NOA compared to the control (p<0.05). In germ cells, we found the DEAD-box helicase 4 (DDX4) and melanoma-associated antigen A4 (MAGE-A4) mRNA and protein expression reduced in NOA (MAGE-A: 46% decrease in HS, 53% decrease in MA, absent in SCO). In HS-NOA, the number of androgen receptor positive Sertoli cells was reduced 30% with a similar pattern in mRNA expression. The γH2AX expression was increased in SCO as compared to HS and MA. However, none of these differences reached statistical significance probably due to low number of samples.

Conclusions

Sertoli cells were shown to be immature in un-dilated tubules of three NOA subtypes. The increased DNA damage in Sertoli cells and thicker tubule wall in SCO suggested a different mechanism for the absence of spermatogenesis from SCO to HS and MA. These results expand insight into the differences in un-dilated tubules from the different types of NOA patients.
Clinical Significance of Lifetime Maximum Body Mass Index in Predicting the Development of T2DM: A Prospective Study in Beijing
Authors: Jia Xiaomeng , Wang Anping , Yang Longyan , Cheng Yu , Wang Yajing , Ba Jianming , Dou Jingtao , Mu Yiming , Zhao Dong , Lyu Zhaohui
Published: June 2022

Background

Overweight and obesity are well-known risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The effect of the maximum body mass index (BMImax), which indicates the highest body weight before the diagnosis of T2DM, is not fully understood. This study aimed to explore the predictive value of BMImax in the progression of diabetes.

Methods

This prospective study recruited 2018 subjects with normal glucose tolerance in Beijing, China. The subjects were followed up for eight years, and the association between BMImax and glucose outcomes was evaluated.

Results

Ninety-seven of the 2,018 participants developed diabetes by the end of the study. Compared to individuals with normal glucose tolerance, those who developed diabetes were characterized by higher levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2 h postload glucose (PBG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), a higher prevalence of a familial history of diabetes and a lower level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). Multivariate regression analysis of sex-stratified groups suggested that FPG, HbA1c, SBP and familial history of diabetes were independent risk factors for diabetes, but that BMImax was a unique indicator for female patients.

Conclusions

BMImax might be an independent predictor of T2DM in females, but it does not seem to be associated with the risk of diabetes in males. BMImax could be regarded as an indicator in the prevention and management of diabetes.
Triglyceride-Glucose Index Correlate With Telomere Length in Healthy Adults From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Hu Lihua , Zhang Qiaojian , Bai Yi , Hu Guiping , Li Jianping
Published: June 2022

Aim

The present investigation was designed to test the association between leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and two simple markers of insulin resistance, that is, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index in U.S. adults without metabolic diseases.

Methods

A total of 6489 U.S. adults without diabetes from NHANES 1999–2002 were analyzed. TyG index was calculated as ln [fasting triglycerides (mg/dL) × fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2]. HOMA-Index was calculated as fasting plasma glucose (mmol/L) × fasting serum insulin (mU/mL)/22.5. LTL was obtained using the quantitative polymerase chain reaction method. Multivariate linear regression analysis was assessed to evaluate the association of TyG index HOMA-IR with LTL. We further conducted a generalized additive model (GAM) and a fitted smoothing curve with penalized spline method.

Results

It was found that the mean LTL was 5796.1 bp in the measured healthy adults. Overall, TyG index was significantly associated with LTL, while HOMA-IR was not. Compared with participants in tertile 1 of the TyG index, the β (95% CI) for those in the second (8.27 to 8.77) and third (≥ 8.77) were -4.31 (95% CI: -48.12~39.49) and -95.98 (95% CI: -145.08~-46.89), respectively. Subjects with TyG index ≥ 8.77 had statistically significant shorter LTL (β = -93.33, 95%CI: -134.33~-52.32), compared with TyG index < 8.77. We further explored a dose-response relation between TyG index by a decile approach [≤ 7.81 (reference), 7.81-8.04, 8.04-8.21, 8.21-8.37, 8.37-8.52, 8.52-8.68, 8.68-8.83, 8.83-9.03, 9.03-9.33, and >9.33] and LTL. Five subgroups (TyG index 7.81-8.04, 8.04-8.21, 8.21-8.37, 8.37-8.52, and 8.52-8.68) did not show significant effect on LTL; while there was a significantly shorter LTL for participants with the TyG index > 8.68, supporting a threshold effect of TyG index on LTL.

Conclusions

The results suggested that higher TyG index (> 8.68) was closely related to shorter LTL and the TyG index was better associated with LTL than HOMA-IR.
Global Registries in Congenital Hyperinsulinism
Authors: Pasquini Tai L. S. , Mesfin Mahlet , Schmitt Jennifer , Raskin Julie
Published: June 2022

Congenital hyperinsulinism (HI) is the most frequent cause of severe, persistent hypoglycemia in newborn babies and children. There are many areas of need for HI research. Some of the most critical needs include describing the natural history of the disease, research leading to new and better treatments, and identifying and managing hypoglycemia before it is prolonged and causes brain damage or death. Patient-reported data provides a basis for understanding the day-to-day experience of living with HI. Commonly identified goals of registries include performing natural history studies, establishing a network for future product and treatment studies, and supporting patients and families to offer more successful and coordinated care. Congenital Hyperinsulinism International (CHI) created the HI Global Registry (HIGR) in October 2018 as the first global patient-powered hyperinsulinism registry. The registry consists of thirteen surveys made up of questions about the patient’s experience with HI over their lifetime. An international team of HI experts, including family members of children with HI, advocates, clinicians, and researchers, developed the survey questions. HIGR is managed by CHI and advised by internationally recognized HI patient advocates and experts. This paper aims to characterize HI through the experience of individuals who live with it. This paper includes descriptive statistics on the birthing experience, hospitalizations, medication management, feeding challenges, experiences with glucose monitoring devices, and the overall disease burden to provide insights into the current data in HIGR and demonstrate the potential areas of future research. As of January 2022, 344 respondents from 37 countries consented to participate in HIGR. Parents or guardians of individuals living with HI represented 83.9% of the respondents, 15.3% were individuals living with HI. Data from HIGR has already provided insight into access challenges, patients’ and caregivers’ quality of life, and to inform clinical trial research programs. Data is also available to researchers seeking to study the pathophysiology of HI retrospectively or to design prospective trials related to improving HI patient outcomes. Understanding the natural history of the disease can also guide standards of care. The data generated through HIGR provides an opportunity to improve the lives of all those affected by HI.