bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis Strategi Pembelajaran PQ4R Untuk Menentukan Ide Pokok Pada Teks Eksplanasi
Authors: Romlah Romlah , Alfan Muhammad , Kuncoro Tri
Published: October 2023

The low learning outcomes of grade 6 students at SDN 3 Dawuhan, especially when learning to determine the main idea of ​​an explanatory text, is caused by several factors, namely internal and external. External factors include variations in the learning model carried out by the teacher which are still not optimal.

The subjects of this study were 6th grade students at SDN 3 Dawuhan, consisting of 10 students. This study uses a descriptive qualitative research approach with data collection techniques through tests, observations and interviews. The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of the PQ4R learning strategy (Preview, Questions, Read, Reflect, Reside and Review) in learning Indonesian to determine the main idea of ​​an explanatory text. The results obtained are, 1) increasing the ability to ask questions, 2) increasing self-confidence, 3) increasing the ability to think critically and 4) the ability to understand reading. Suggestions for future research, so that there are efforts to cultivate reading activities for students so that they can increase vocabulary treasury which will further improve reading comprehension skills as well.

Keywords: Main idea, PQ4R, Explanatory text
Fungsi Partikel dalam Bahasa Jawa Dialek Pacitan
Authors: Susanti Herlita
Published: October 2023

Fungsi partikel dalam Bahasa Jawa dialek Pacitan adalah fokus dari penelitian ini dan permasalahan yang dikaji dalam penelitian ini adalah (1) Apa saja jenis-jenis partikel di dalam bahasa Jawa dialek Pacitan? (2)Bagaimana fungsi-fungsi partikel yang ada di dalam Bahasa Jawa Dialek Pacitan di dalam kalimat?. Berdasarkan permasalahan tersebut, tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1)Mendeskripsikan jenis-jenis partikel di dalam bahasa Jawa dialek Pacitan. (2)Mendeskripsikan fungsi-fungsi partikel di dalam Bahasa Jawa dialek Pacitan. Metode penelitian ini adalah metode deskriptif kualitatif dengan analisis data metode padan. Teknik pengumpulan data yakni metode intuitif mengingat penulis merupakan penutur asli Bahasa Jawa dialek Pacitan. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah partikel yang terdapat dalam Bahasa Jawa dialek Pacitan ada 6 jenis partikel, yakni: ritɛk, eram, mbok, wɛh, mǝn,, athek. Partikel diatas tidak ditemukan di bahasa Jawa dialek daerah lain. Terdapat 2 partikel yang berfungsi sebagai penghalus, dan terdapat 5 partikel yang berfungsi sebagai emphasis/penegas. Partikel ritek mempunyai dua fungsi yakni fungsi sebagai penghalus dan penegas.
Transaksi Kredit Digital (Shopee Paylater) dalam Perspektif Islam
Authors: Nazla Luluwatun , Agustina Rina Samsiyah , Amalia Alda , Mutmainah Lu’liyatul
Published: October 2023

ShopeePayLater merupakan salah satu layanan yang dihadirkan oleh pihak Shopee untuk memudahkan para pengguna dalam berbelanja secara virtual atau online di aplikasi yang mereka gunakan. Metode penelitian yang dilakukan dalam jurnal ini adalah penelitian kualitatif karena penelitian ini mendeskripsikan bagaimana transaksi kredit digital (ShopeePayLater) dalam perspektif Al Quran dan Hadits. Pendekatan kualitatif merupakan proses penelitian yang bertujuan untuk memahami fenomena atau obyek yang diteliti, sehingga memperoleh pemahaman yang mendalam dan menemukan seuatu yang unik. Praktik ShopeePayLater yang memberikan layanan berupa pinjaman uang dengan menggunakan penerapan akad qardh atau utang yakni tidak sesuai dengan fatwa, karena di dalam praktiknya terdapat beberapa hal yang tidak sesuai dengan syariat-syariat islam.
Urgensi Penerapan Carbon Tax di Indonesia Perspektif Ekonomi Islam
Authors: Achyar M. Munir , Hakim Muhammad Fajrul
Published: October 2023

This article was triggered by the plan of the Government of Indonesia, especially the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia, which will establish a carbon tax on several sectors, especially the power generation and industrial sectors. This article tries to describe the urgency of the plan to set a carbon tax in Indonesia which will take effect in 2022 using an Islamic economic perspective. Carbon tax or carbon tax needs to be studied in depth from various perspectives so that in its implementation it will reach a point of justice that aims at the benefit of society. Islam as a religion that is rahmatan lil 'alamin contains values that can be used as a benchmark in answering the problems of human life. Islam in relation to Islamic Economics is expected to be able to answer the problem of the environmental crisis which has become a global issue and can answer its relation to the establishment of a carbon tax in Indonesia as an effort to protect the environment as well as an effort to receive state revenue for the benefit of society.
Recovery in Context
Authors:   , van Heemstra Henriette Elisabeth
Published: October 2023

A continuously growing group of people are forced to flee their home countries to seek refuge from unsafe living conditions. Forced migrants are at relatively high risk for developing mental health problems, like posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Common risk factors for psychopathology in this population are traumatic experiences and postmigratory daily stressors. Hence, there is a huge population suffering from the mental impact of uprooted and disturbed lives.
Finding ways to overcome psychopathology related to traumatic experiences and daily stressors plays a central role in the different chapters of this dissertation. First by investigating the role of perceived daily stress in PTSD treatment and second by understanding the role of individual factors for mental health and its treatment. To increase knowledge on these issues, several quantitative studies were performed among five different samples of forced migrants.
Findings suggest that the role of individual psychological resources, such as post-traumatic cognitions, coping styles, and self-efficacy, in mental health for forced migrants may vary in different settings. Although all these factors impact the wellbeing of forced migrants, their influence may be context-specific. For example, higher self-efficacy and beneficial coping styles may not always constrain mental health problems, while post-traumatic self-blame might mitigate PTSD symptoms under stressful living conditions. Meanwhile, perceived daily stress may not necessary block forced migrants’ abilities to recover from PTSD symptoms.

Evidently, there is a need to optimise available treatments for forced migrants’ highly prevailing mental health problems. But factors promoting mental health and increasing PTSD treatment response among forced migrants should always be valued in the context of their psychopathology and living conditions.
Henriëtte (Jetske) van Heemstra works as a licensed health care psychologist and researcher at ARQ Centrum’45.
Exploring nurses’ experiences in applying AIDET framework to improve communication skills in the emergency department: A qualitative study
Authors: Panchuay Werapol , Soontorn Thassanee , Songwathana Praneed
Published: October 2023

Background: Recognizing the significance of effective communication in raising emergency department service standards and preventing misinterpretation of patient needs among registered nurses is crucial for improving patient satisfaction. The utilization of the AIDET (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, and Thank you) communication framework is acknowledged to enhance communication among registered nurses, patients, family members, and other healthcare professionals.
Objective: This study aimed to explore Thai nurses’ experiences in applying the AIDET framework for communications with patients and their relatives in the emergency department.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive research design was employed. Semi-structured interviews with 15 emergency nurses were conducted between September and March 2022 in a regional hospital in Thailand. Data were analyzed using content analysis.
Results: Three themes were generated: 1) Ability to follow the AIDET framework, 2) Recognizing the value of using AIDET steps for positive communication, and 3) Establishing a foundation for successful communication.
Conclusion: The study’s findings highlighted the AIDET framework’s potential to enhance communication skills between nurses, healthcare professionals, and patients. The results also emphasized the importance of providing training and mentorship to junior nurses, integrating AIDET into daily routines and institutional policies, and facilitating continuous education for registered nurses. These efforts contribute to improving care quality and aligning with patient and family needs.
Chelators as Antineuroblastomas Agents
Authors: D'ACUNTO C , GBELCOVÁ H , KAPLÁNEK R , POSPÍŠILOVÁ M , HAVLÍK M , RUML T
Published: October 2023

Neuroblastoma represents 8-10 % of all malignant tumors in childhood and is responsible for 15 % of cancer deaths in the pediatric population. Aggressive neuroblastomas are often resistant to chemotherapy. Canonically, neuroblastomas can be classified according to the MYCN (N-myc proto-oncogene protein) gene amplification, a common marker of tumor aggressiveness and poor prognosis. It has been found that certain compounds with chelating properties may show anticancer activity, but there is little evidence for the effect of chelators on neuroblastoma. The effect of new chelators characterized by the same functional group, designated as HLZ (1-hydrazino phthalazine), on proliferation (WST-1 and methylene blue assay), cell cycle (flow cytometry), apoptosis (proliferation assay after use of specific pharmacological inhibitors and western blot analysis) and ROS production (fluorometric assay based on dichlorofluorescein diacetate metabolism) was studied in three neuroblastoma cell lines with different levels of MYCN amplification. The molecules were effective only on MYCN-non-amplified cells in which they arrested the cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase. We investigated the mechanism of action and identified the activation of cell signaling that involves protein kinase C.
Comparative Analysis of Somatic Stem Cells With Emphasis on Osteochondral Tissue Regeneration
Authors: BOHÁČ M , IVANIŠOVÁ D , STREČANSKÁ M , SEKEĽOVÁ SEKEĽOVÁ , NIKO FEREJE B , SMOLINSKÁ V , VARCHULOVÁ NOVÁKOVÁ Z , KUNIAKOVÁ M , ČEHÁKOVÁ M , ČULENOVÁ M , BERNÁTOVÁ S , MAZREKU M , BEVÍZOVÁ K , NICODEMOU A , ZAMBORSKÝ R , DANIŠOVIČ Ľ
Published: October 2023

Congenital anomalies, diseases, and injuries may result in osteochondral damage. Recently, a big hope has been given to somatic stem cells (SSCs) which are characterized as undifferentiated cells with an ability of long-term self-renewing and plasticity. They are adherent with a fibroblast-like morphology in vitro and express various surface markers (e.g. CD29, CD73, CD90, and CD105), but they are negative for CD31, CD34, CD45, and HLA-DR. SSCs secrete various bioactive molecules, which are involved in processes of regeneration. The main goal of the present study was the characterization and comparison of biological properties of SSCs obtained from adipose tissue, dental pulp, and urine concerning osteochondral regeneration. SSCs were maintained in an appropriate growth medium up to the third passage and were analyzed by light and electron microscope. The immunophenotype was analyzed by flow cytometry. The kinetics of proliferation was measured by MTT assay. Human Cytokine/Chemokine Multiplex Assay was used, and SSCs secretory profile was measured by Luminex MAGPIX® Instrument. Pellet cultures and a chondrogenic medium were used to induce chondrogenic differentiation. Osteogenic differentiation was induced by the osteogenic medium. Chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation was analyzed by real-time PCR. SSCs had similar fibroblast-like morphology. They have similar kinetics of proliferation. SSCs shared the expression CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, and CD105. They lack expression of CD29 and CD34. SSCs secerned similar levels of IL10 and IL18 while differing in IFN-gamma, IL6, IL8, MCP-1, and RANTES production. SSCs possess a similar capacity for chondrogenic differentiation but slightly differ in osteogenic differentiation. In conclusion, it can be emphasized that SSCs from adipose tissue, dental pulp, and urine share the majority of cellular characteristics typical for SSCs and have great potential to be used in osteochondral tissue regeneration.
Improving fifth-grade students’ learning outcomes in integrated thematic learning using the RADEC model
Authors: Roza Elvira , Lena Mai Sri
Published: October 2023

The study was undermined by the low learning results of students in integrated thematic learning in class V SDN 10 Palak Aneh Pariaman. The subjects of this study consist of f 28 fifth-grade students. Research method is a mixed approach, and this type of research is class action research. Data collection techniques were through observation, non-test and test. These results of this study indicate that learning activities and outcomes increases from good to excellent category. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that the application of the RADEC model will increase the level of integrated thematic learning outcomes from students.
Learning statistics using realistic mathematics education: A case of fifth-grade students of elementary school
Authors: Widyanthi Astri , Fatmawilda Fatmawilda , Putra Zetra Hainul , Alim Jesi Alexander
Published: October 2023

This study aims to describe realistic mathematics education (RME) in helping students' understanding of concepts in statistical material about data collection. This research uses descriptive qualitative research methods with a design research approach. The subjects of the study were 29 fifth-grade students of a public school in Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia. The results of this study show that RME is applied in learning with the following steps, namely first, providing and explaining contextual problems to be solved by students; second, students solve contextual problems for mathematical models in their own way; third, discuss and compare each problem solving given by students; Fourth, students conclude and summarize the learning concept. From these activities, students can develop knowledge and skills in collecting and presenting data.
Akidah Akhlak Teacher’s Strategy in Forming Students’ Responsible Attitude
Authors: Hasanah Uswatun , Ningrum Sulistia
Published: October 2023

This paper examines the Akidah Akhlak teacher's strategy, obstacles, and solutions in forming students' responsible attitudes. The research uses qualitative methods. Data collection techniques were carried out through interviews, observation, and documentation. The research results indicate that the Akidah Akhlak teacher's strategy in forming the students’ responsible attitude is providing reward and punishment, motivation, and a personal approach. Meanwhile, the Akidah Akhlak teacher's obstacles in forming students' responsible attitudes come from the student's personality, the parents who are less supportive, and the wrong association. The solutions carried out by the Akidah Akhlak teacher come from the cooperation between the teacher and the student’s parents and building intensive communication and come from the teacher who gives positive thoughts to students and puts a little positive support to students in giving assignments. This research can provide an overview and contribution to increasing the students’ responsible attitude that must always be sought by the teacher, and the importance of the parent’s role in constructing a responsible attitude of students.
REKABET HUKUKU AÇISINDAN TANITIM FAALİYETLERİNE BAĞLANAN SONUÇLARIN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Semih Sırrı , KÜÇÜKKAVRUK Kemal
Published: October 2023

Reklamın, reklam veren teşebbüs, müşteriler ve rakipler açısından doğurduğu sonuçlarla bağlantılı olarak, ilgili pazarı, pazardaki veya pazara girme hazırlığındaki olası rakipleri etkileme olasılığı da bulunmaktadır. Bu kapsamda, hâkim durumdaki bir teşebbüsün uzun zamandır yürütmekte olduğu yüksek bütçeli reklam kampanyaları, pazara girmeyi hedefleyenler açısından bir giriş engeli oluşturabilir. Ya da, hâkim durumdaki teşebbüsün, kullandığı reklam yöntemleri veya dayattığı reklam sınırlamaları, ilgili pazarda hâkim durumun kötüye kullanılmasına neden olabilir. İlgili teşebbüsün sunduğu mal veya hizmete ilişkin markanın jenerik isim haline gelmesi, müşteri bağlılığına sahip olması veya ilgili pazardaki reklam yasakları dolayısıyla, rakiplerin tanıtım imkanı bulamamaları gibi değişkenler de, bu sonuçlara varılmasında dikkate alınmaktadır. Bu çerçevede, reklamın rekabet hukuku ihlallerinin gerçekleştirilmesi için bir araç vasfı taşıyabileceği açıktır. Çalışmanın amacı, rekabet hukuku teorisi açısından reklamın konumunun ve olası rekabet ihlallerinin oluşmasındaki işlevinin değerlendirilmesidir. Bu çerçevede çalışmanın alt başlıklarında, ilgili Rekabet Kurulu kararları incelenmekte ve Türk hukukunda reklama yönelik rekabet ihlali gerekçesine dayanan müdahaleler tasnif edilmektedir.
STRATEGI SATUAN POLISI PAMONG PRAJA DALAM MENINGKATKAN KESADARAN MASYARAKAT MEMATUHI PROTOKOL KESEHATAN SEBAGAI UPAYA PENCEGAHAN COVID-19 DI KOTA SEMARANG
Authors: Haryanti Silvy Aprilia , Sibuea Rico Paulus
Published: October 2023

Kota Semarang merupakan salah satu kota di Indonesia dengan intensitas penularan yang tinggi pada masa pandemi COVID-19. Hal tersebut menyebabkan ditetapkannya Kota Semarang menjadi zona merah. Oleh sebab itu masyarakat perlu menerapkan protokol kesehatan dengan ketat. Lahirnya Peraturan Walikota Semarang Nomor 28 Tahun 2020 tentang pedoman pelaksanaan pembatasan kegiatan dalam rangka percepatan penanganan COVID-19 di Kota Semarang tidak juga dapat membuat masyarakat mematuhi protokol kesehatan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan, memperoleh data dan informasi mengenai faktor-faktor penyebab rendahnya kesadaran masyarakat dalam mematuhi protokol kesehatan di Kota Semarang dan untuk mendeskripsikan, memperoleh data dan informasi mengenai strategi Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja dalam meningkatkan kesadaran masyarakat mematuhi protokol kesehatan sebagai upata pencegahan COVID-19 di Kota Semarang. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif dengan metode pendekatan deskriptif. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan metode yaitu observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. rendahnya tingkat kesadaran masyarakat Kota Semarang mengenai protokol kesehatan dipengaruhi oleh beberapa faktor diantaranya kurangnya pemahaman, faktor lingkungan, dan taraf hidup masyarakat. Untuk meningkatkan kesadaran masyarakat mengenai protokol kesehatan, Satuan Polisi Pamong Praja melaksanakan beberapa agenda dengan tujuan agar masyarakat lebih mematuhi protokol kesehatan. Berdasarkan penelitian yang telah dilaksanakan, peneliti menyimpulkan bahwa strategi satuan polisi pamong praja kota semarang dalam meningkatkan kesadaran masyarakat mematuhi protokol kesehatan sudah tepat dan berjalan sesuai dengan apa yang diharapkan karena dengan strategi tersebut terbukti menurunkan angka positif covid-19 di Kota Semarang.

Kata Kunci: Strategi; Kesadaran Masyarakat; Covid-19.
Estimation of deformations of free geodetic networks by repeating measurements from unfixed stations
Authors:   Saint Petersburg Mining University, Mustafin M. G. , Vasiljev G. E. ,   Saint Petersburg Mining University
Published: October 2023

This article is dedicated to improving of modern deformations monitoring methods. Short review of actual deformation analysis methods is presented. Some points of improving of classic methods of geodetic monitoring are high-lighted. Some perspectivity of using computer technologies is shown. Actual method of free control network measurements is considered. It is proposed to use the so-called direct method of finding network deformations during repeated measurements, which consists in comparing the points’ coordinates during the transformation and superposition of two networks. Helmert transfor-mation formulae application is performed by computer iterations processing of transformation parameters. The general mathematics of the proposed method and the processing results of test measurements are given. The developed algorithm for processing the measurement results according to the proposed method has shown its ef-fectiveness. Some perspectives of method’s development are shown.
One health implications of fur farming
Authors: Warwick Clifford , Pilny Anthony , Steedman Catrina , Grant Rachel
Published: October 2023

Fur farming involves the captive-breeding, rearing, and killing of between 85 – 100 million animals annually for their pelts. The purpose of this report is to summarise key areas of significance and concern regarding fur farming, and discuss these matters and their one-health considerations. We conducted primary literature searches using Google Scholar and PubMed that focused on issues of animal welfare, zoonoses and public health, and environmental impacts of fur farming, and examined 280 reports. We identified that at least 15 species are farmed for fur across at least 19 countries. We found 16 categories of animal welfare concern (e.g., deprivation, stress, abnormal behaviours, insanitary conditions, forced obesity, and high morbidity and mortality), 18 reported endemic pathogens and diseases with confirmed or potential zoonotic and cross-species implications (e.g., bacterial n = 6, viral n = 5, and parasitic n = 7), and four main categories of environmental concern (e.g., greenhouse gas emissions, invasive alien species, toxic chemicals, and eutrophication) associated with fur farming. Despite numerous efforts to systematically monitor and control animal welfare at fur farms, practices continue to fail to meet normal scientific principles and models used in other animal welfare situations. In our view, limited available data does not currently indicate that fur farms are major sources of zoonotic epidemics and pandemics. The environmental problems caused by fur farming are significant, and relate mainly to invasive species, toxic chemical release and eutrophication of water bodies. We offer some recommendations for monitoring and controlling particular fur farming practices, in line with many governments and other investigators we conclude that inherent problems are essentially unresolvable and advocate complete prohibitions on the sector.
Sensory attributes, chemical and microbiological properties of cigars aged with different media
Authors: Hu Wanrong , Cai Wen , Jia Yun , Fan Jingyuan , Zhu Beibei , Zhang Qianying , Wang Yue , Liu Yuanfa , Li Dongliang
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Aging is an important process to improve the quality of cigar, but the effect of aging with media on cigar has not been reported.Therefore, this study aimed to prepare different aging media and clarify the influence of media on cigar quality.

Methods: Effective media were first screened by sensory evaluation, then the effects of aging media on the chemical composition and microbial community of cigar were investigated.

Results: The results showed that: 1) As aging media, coffee formula and cocoa formula could optimize the smoke and aroma characteristics of cigar, and 30 days was the appropriate period for cigar aging. 2) Aging with coffee or cocoa media could increase the content of amino acids, non-volatile organic acids, malic acid and aroma components. Particularly, the content of aroma components increased from 2.48 mg g−1 (W-30) to 3.21 mg g−1 (C-30) and 3.70 mg g−1 (K-30), respectively. 3) Aging with coffee can improve the diversity of bacteria and fungi on the cigar surface and change the succession rule of bacterial community. In contrast, aging with cocoa had no significant effect on microbial diversity of cigar.

Discussion: In this study, the influence of aging media on cigar quality was analyzed multidimensionally for the first time, which provided a reference for the development of new aging media and technologies to improve cigar quality.
Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—emerging role of AMPA and kainate subtypes of ionotropic glutamate receptors
Authors: Vukolova Marina N. , Yen Laura Y. , Khmyz Margarita I. , Sobolevsky Alexander I. , Yelshanskaya Maria V.
Published: October 2023

Ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) mediate the majority of excitatory neurotransmission and are implicated in various neurological disorders. In this review, we discuss the role of the two fastest iGluRs subtypes, namely, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) and kainate receptors, in the pathogenesis and treatment of Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Although both AMPA and kainate receptors represent promising therapeutic targets for the treatment of these diseases, many of their antagonists show adverse side effects. Further studies of factors affecting the selective subunit expression and trafficking of AMPA and kainate receptors, and a reasonable approach to their regulation by the recently identified novel compounds remain promising directions for pharmacological research.
Repeat-dose toxicity study of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in cynomolgus monkeys by intravenous and subcutaneous injection
Authors: Pan Wei , Gu Liqiang , Yang Hongzhong , Xu Cong , Yang Zhengbiao , Lu Qijiong , Shi Yuhua , Zhang Lili , Shao Jinjin , Chen Yunxiang , Pan Xin , Wu Feifei , Pan Ruolang , Liang Jinfeng , Zhang Lijiang
Published: October 2023

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) are proposed for the treatment of acute lung injury and atopic dermatitis. To advance hUC-MSC entry into clinical trials, the effects of hUC-MSCs on the general toxicity, immune perturbation and toxicokinetic study of hUC-MSCs in cynomolgus monkeys were assessed. hUC-MSCs were administered to cynomolgus monkeys by intravenous infusion of 3.0 × 106 or 3.0 × 107cells/kg or by subcutaneous injection of 3.0 × 107cells/kg twice a week for 3 weeks followed by withdrawal and observation for 6 weeks. Toxicity was assessed by clinical observation, clinical pathology, ophthalmology, immunotoxicology and histopathology. Moreover, toxicokinetic study was performed using a validated qPCR method after the first and last dose. After 3rd or 4th dosing, one or three the monkeys in the intravenous high-dose group exhibited transient coma, which was eliminated by slow-speed infusion after 5th or 6th dosing. In all dose groups, hUC-MSCs significantly increased NEUT levels and decreased LYMPH and CD3+ levels, which are related to the immunosuppressive effect of hUC-MSCs. Subcutaneous nodules and granulomatous foci were found at the site of administration in all monkeys in the subcutaneous injection group. Other than above abnormalities, no obvious systemic toxicity was observed in any group. The hUC-MSCs was detectable in blood only within 1 h after intravenous and subcutaneous administration. The present study declared the preliminary safety of hUC-MSCs, but close monitoring of hUC-MSCs for adverse effects, such as coma induced by intravenous infusion, is warranted in future clinical trials.
The antimicrobial peptide Esc(1-21)-1c increases susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to conventional antibiotics by decreasing the expression of the MexAB-OprM efflux pump
Authors: Canè Carolina , Casciaro Bruno , Di Somma Angela , Loffredo Maria Rosa , Puglisi Elena , Battaglia Gennaro , Mellini Marta , Cappiello Floriana , Rampioni Giordano , Leoni Livia , Amoresano Angela , Duilio Angela , Mangoni Maria Luisa
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The increase in bacterial strains resistant to conventional antibiotics is an alarming problem for human health and could lead to pandemics in the future. Among bacterial pathogens responsible for a large variety of severe infections there is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new molecules with antimicrobial activity or that can act as adjuvants of antibiotics already in use. In this scenario, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) hold great promise. Recently, we characterized a frog-skin AMP derived from esculentin-1a, namely Esc(1-21)-1c, endowed with antipseudomonal activity without being cytotoxic to human cells.

Methods: The combinatorial effect of the peptide and antibiotics was investigated through the checkerboard assay, differential proteomic and transcriptional analysis.

Results: Here, we found that Esc(1-21)-1c can synergistically inhibit the growth of P. aeruginosa cells with three different antibiotics, including tetracycline. We therefore investigated the underlying mechanism implemented by the peptide using a differential proteomic approach. The data revealed a significant decrease in the production of three proteins belonging to the MexAB-OprM efflux pump upon treatment with sub-inhibitory concentration of Esc(1-21)-1c. Down-regulation of these proteins was confirmed by transcriptional analysis and direct measurement of their relative levels in bacterial cells by tandem mass spectrometry analysis in multiple reaction monitoring scan mode.

Conclusion: These evidences suggest that treatment with Esc(1-21)-1c in combination with antibiotics would increase the intracellular drug content making bacteria more susceptible to the antibiotic. Overall, these results highlight the importance of characterizing new molecules able to synergize with conventional antibiotics, paving the way for the development of alternative therapeutic strategies based on AMP/antibiotic formulations to counteract the emergence of resistant bacterial strains and increase the use of “old” antibiotics in medical practice.
Aortic root enlargement in patients undergoing mitral and aortic replacement: early outcomes in a sub-Saharan population
Authors: Mve Mvondo Charles , Tchokouani Djientcheu Carole , Ngo Yon Laurence Carole , Banga Douglas Nkomo , Mbele Richard , Bella Ela Amos , Giamberti Alessandro , Frigiola Alessandro , Menanga Alain Patrick , Djientcheu Vincent De Paul , Ngowe Marcelin Ngowe
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Aortic root enlargement (ARE) is often required to avoid patient–prosthesis mismatch (PPM) in young patients undergoing aortic surgery, including those undergoing combined mitral and aortic valve replacement (double valve replacement, DVR). Adding ARE to DVR may increase the operative risk by extending the surgical time. Herein, we review our experience with ARE in patients who underwent DVR.

Materials and methods

The medical records of 69 patients who underwent DVR at our institution between February 2008 and November 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the ARE procedure (ARE-DVR: 25 patients; DVR: 44 patients). Descriptive and comparative analyses of demographic, clinical, and surgical data were performed.

Results

Among the 69 patients who underwent DVR, 35 were women (sex ratio, 0.97). The mean age at surgery was 26.7  ±  13.9 years (range: 7–62 years). Among the 47 patients aged ≤30 years, 40.4% (19/47) were aged between 10 and 20 years, and 6.3% (3/47) were aged <10 years. Patients in the ARE-DVR group were younger (23.3 ± 12.9 years vs. 28.5 ± 14.2 years, p < 0.05). The New York Heart Association Class ≥III dyspnea was the most common symptom (89.9%), with no differences between the two groups. Of all the patients, 84.1% had sinus rhythm. Rheumatic disease was the most common etiology in the entire cohort (91.3%). The mean aortic annulus diameter was 20.54 mm, with smaller sizes found in the ARE-DVR group (18.00 ± 1.47 mm vs. 22.50 ± 2.35 mm, p < 0.05). The aortic cross-clamping duration was greater in the ARE-DVR group (177.6 ± 37.9 min vs. 148.3 ± 66.3 min, p = 0.047). The operative mortality rate was 5.6% for the entire cohort (ARE-DVR: 8% vs. DVR: 4.5%, p = 0.46). Among the patients who underwent echocardiographic control at follow-up, the mean aortic gradient was 19.6 ± 7.2 mmHg (range: 6.14–33 mmHg), with no differences among the groups.

Conclusion

The association between ARE and DVR did not significantly affect operative mortality. ARE can be safely used whenever indications arise to reduce the occurrence of PPM, especially in young patients with growth potential.
Donor/recipient ascending aortic diameter ratio as a novel potential metric for donor selection and improved clinical outcomes in heart transplantation: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Masroor Matiullah , Chen Yuqi , Wang Yixuan , Dong Nianguo
Published: October 2023

Background

Donor/recipient size matching is paramount in heart transplantation. Body weight, height, body mass index, body surface area, and predicted heart mass (PHM) ratios are generally used in size matching. Precise size matching is important to achieve better clinical outcomes. This study aims to determine the donor/recipient ascending aortic diameter (AAoD) ratio as a metric for donor selection and its effect on postoperative clinical outcomes in heart transplant patients.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients who underwent heart transplantation from January 2015 to December 2018. A cutoff value of 0.8032 for the donor/recipient AAoD ratio (independent variable for the primary endpoint during unmatched cohort analysis) was determined for predicting in-hospital mortality. The patients were divided into two groups based on the cutoff value. Group A, AAoD < 0.8032 (n = 96), and Group B, AAoD > 0.8032 (n = 265). A propensity score-matched (PSM) study was performed to equalize the two groups comprising 77 patients each in terms of risk. A Cox regression model was developed to identify the independent preoperative variables affecting the primary end-point. The primary endpoint was all-cause in-hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 361 patients underwent heart transplantation during the given period. On the multivariate analysis, donor/recipient PHM ratio [HR 16.907, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.535–186.246, P = 0.021], donor/recipient AAoD ratio < 0.8032 (HR 5.398, 95% CI 1.181–24.681, P = 0.030), and diabetes (HR 3.138, 95% CI 1.017–9.689, P = 0.047) were found to be independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. Group A had higher 3-year mortality than Group B (P = 0.022). The surgery time was longer and postoperative RBC, plasma, and platelets transfusion were higher in Group A (P < 0.05). Although not statistically significant the use of continuous renal replacement therapy (P = 0.054), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (P = 0.086), was realatively higher, and ventilation time (P = 0.079) was relatively longer in Group A.

Conclusions

The donor/recipient AAoD ratio is a potential metric for patient matching and postoperative outcomes in heart transplantation. A donor/recipient AAoD ratio > 0.8032 could improve post-heart transplantation outcomes and donor heart utilization.
Apolipoprotein B and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist: reversing the risk of coronary heart disease
Authors: Yang Fangkun , Huangfu Ning , Shen Jiaxi , Su Pengpeng , Zhu Lujie , Cui Hanbin , Yuan Shuai
Published: October 2023

Aims

Epidemiological evidence for the link of interleukin 1 (IL-1) and its inhibition with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remains controversial. We aim to investigate the cardiovascular effects of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Genetic variants identified from a genome-wide association study involving 30,931 individuals were used as instrumental variables for the serum IL-1Ra concentrations. Genetic associations with CVDs and cardiometabolic risk factors were obtained from international genetic consortia. Inverse‐variance weighted method was utilized to derive effect estimates, while supplementary analyses employing various statistical approaches.

Results

Genetically determined IL-1Ra level was associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD; OR, 1.07; 95% CI: 1.03-1.17) and myocardial infarction (OR, 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04-1.21). The main results remained consistent in supplementary analyses. Besides, IL-1Ra was associated with circulating levels of various lipoprotein lipids, apolipoproteins and fasting glucose. Interestingly, observed association pattern with CHD was reversed when adjusting for apolipoprotein B (OR, 0.84; 95%CI: 0.71-0.99) and slightly attenuated on accounting for other cardiometabolic risk factors. Appropriate lifestyle intervention was found to lower IL-1Ra concentration and mitigate the heightened CHD risk it posed.

Conclusion

Apolipoprotein B represents the key driver, and a potential target for reversal of the causal link between serum IL-1Ra and increased risk of CHD/MI. The combined therapy involving IL-1 inhibition and lipid-modifying treatment aimed at apolipoprotein B merit further exploration.
A novel distributing–collecting on-line insulation monitoring system and line selection technology for the DC supply system
Authors: Feng Chen , Ye Pingfeng , Gao Zhengzhong , Jiang Haiyang , Zang Xiangyu , Zhang Xiangxing
Published: October 2023

At present, the power supply system of 5G base stations is a micro smart grid, it generally uses 240 V DC power supply with multiple branches, and leakage accidents will threaten personal and property safety, so it is vital to identify the fault line accurately and remove the faults rapidly. In this paper, the leakage phenomenon of transmission lines in the HVDC power supply system of a 5G communication base station is studied. To address the issue of multi-branch line leakage diagnosis and line selection in the 240 V DC system, a new distributed DC insulation monitoring and fault line selection technology and system are proposed. The distributed DC insulation monitoring line selection technology is used to collect the leakage current of each branch by setting a unique single-core DC leakage transformer and process the signal primarily. In addition, a high-resistance bridge switchgear is added to the bus bar. According to different leakage currents caused by the imbalance of the bridge before and after the switch, the insulation resistance of electrodes to the ground is calculated accurately, which solves the problem that the current technology cannot judge the fault of the positive and negative electrodes to the ground at the same time. Through both simulation and prototype experiments, the feasibility of this technology and system device in line insulation monitoring and line selection of the HVDC communication base station power supply system is verified.
Identifying the main drivers of the spatiotemporal variations in wetland methane emissions during 2001–2020
Authors: Hu Yihan , Yue Xu , Tian Chenguang , Zhou Hao , Fu Weijie , Zhao Xu , Zhao Yuan , Chen Yuwen
Published: October 2023

Wetlands act as an important natural source of global methane (CH4). The emission rate of wetland CH4 is jointly affected by climate change, carbon dioxide (CO2) fertilization, and wetland distribution. In this study, we implemented a wetland CH4 emission module into the Yale Interactive Biosphere (YIBs) model to quantify the spatiotemporal variations of global wetland CH4 emissions in 2001–2020. Site-level validations showed that the YIBs model reasonably captures the seasonality and magnitude of CH4 emissions at 28 out of 33 sites with significantly positive correlations and low relative biases. On the global scale, the YIBs predicts an annual mean wetland CH4 emission of 147.5 Tg yr−1 in 2000–2017, very close to the estimate of 147.9 Tg yr−1 from the ensemble of 13 process-based models. Global wetland CH4 emissions showed a positive trend of 0.74 Tg yr−2 in the past 2 decades, leading to an increase of 7.4 Tg yr−1 (5.2%) in 2008–2017 than 2000–2009. Climate change and CO2 fertilization accounted for over 70% of global wetland CH4 emission changes. Among them, the impact of CO2 grew steadily and became the dominant factor after the year 2008. The most significant changes in wetland CH4 emissions were located in the tropical regions following the perturbations in temperature that drives the ecosystem productivity. We found limited changes in CH4 emissions over high latitudes because of the moderate variations in wetland area fraction. The rise of wetland CH4 emissions poses an emerging threat to the global warming and likely escalates the tropospheric air pollutants.
Spatial and temporal variations of vegetation water use efficiency and its response to climate change and human activities in the West Liao River Plain, China
Authors: Gao Mengmeng , Liu Qiong , Liu Yali , Yang Nan , Wang Yi , Li Xiaolei
Published: October 2023

Water use efficiency [WUE = gross primary production (GPP)/evapotranspiration (ET)] is an important indicator of the degree of coupling between carbon and water cycles in ecosystems. However, the response of the carbon and water cycles to climate change and human activities,as well as the underlying driving mechanisms in the West Liao River Plain (WLRP), a typical farming–pasturing ecotone in northern China, remain unclear. This study examined the temporal and spatial variation characteristics of WUE in the WLRP from 2000 to 2020 using linear regression and the coefficient of variation (CV) method based on MODIS GPP and ET datasets. The relationships between WUE, meteorological factors, and human activities as well as the mechanism driving WUE changes were revealed through correlation analyses, residual analysis, and the grey correlation model. The interannual change of WUE from 2000 to 2020 showed a fluctuating but weakly upward trend. The intra-annual change in WUE followed an M-type bimodal trend, with two peaks from May to June and August to September. Areas with increased WUE accounted for 50.82% of the study area, and 11.11% of these showed a significant increasing trend. WUE was mainly positively correlated with temperature and solar radiation and negatively correlated with precipitation and VPD and presented obvious regional differences. Solar radiation had the most significant impact on WUE. WUE change is not entirely driven by climate change, and human activities have also played an important role. In areas where WUE increased, The average contribution rate of climate change was 72.4%, and that of human activities was 27.6%. This study reveals the temporal and spatial dynamics of WUE in the WLRP and highlights the influence of human activities on WUE changes.
SmartORC: smart orchestration of resources in the compute continuum
Authors: Carlini Emanuele , Coppola Massimo , Dazzi Patrizio , Ferrucci Luca , Kavalionak Hanna , Korontanis Ioannis , Mordacchini Matteo , Tserpes Konstantinos
Published: October 2023

The promise of the compute continuum is to present applications with a flexible and transparent view of the resources in the Internet of Things–Edge–Cloud ecosystem. However, such a promise requires tackling complex challenges to maximize the benefits of both the cloud and the edge. Challenges include managing a highly distributed platform, matching services and resources, harnessing resource heterogeneity, and adapting the deployment of services to the changes in resources and applications. In this study, we present SmartORC, a comprehensive set of components designed to provide a complete framework for managing resources and applications in the Compute Continuum. Along with the description of all the SmartORC subcomponents, we have also provided the results of an evaluation aimed at showcasing the framework's capability.
Virus-like particle vaccines with epitopes from porcine epidemic virus and transmissible gastroenteritis virus incorporated into self-assembling ADDomer platform provide clinical immune responses in piglets
Authors: Du Pengfei , Yan Quanhui , Zhang Xiao-Ai , Zeng Weijun , Xie Kaiyuan , Yuan Zhongmao , Liu Xiaodi , Liu Xueyi , Zhang Lihong , Wu Keke , Li Xiaowen , Fan Shuangqi , Zhao Mingqiu , Chen Jinding
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) are major intestinal coronaviruses that cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and mortality in piglets. These viruses coexist and lead to significant economic losses in the swine industry. Virus-like particles (VLPs) have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional inactivated vaccines due to their exceptional safety, efficacy, and ability to provide multi-disease protection with a single dose.

Methods

Our study focused on specific antigenic epitopes from the PEDV S protein (SS2 and 2C10 regions) and the TGEV S protein (A and D sites) as target candidates. These epitopes were integrated into the ADDomer framework, and we successfully generated recombinant proteins AD, AD-P, AD-T, and AD-PT using the baculovirus expression vector system (BEVS). By meticulously optimizing conditions in High Five cells, we successfully expressed and purified the recombinant proteins. Subsequently, we developed the recombinant ADDomer-VLP vaccine and conducted a comprehensive evaluation of its efficacy in piglets.

Results

Following ultrafiltration concentration and sucrose gradient centrifugation purification, the recombinant proteins self-assembled into VLPs as observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Administration of the vaccine did not result in any adverse reactions in the immunized piglets. Additionally, no significant instances of fever were detected in any of the experimental groups, and there were no notable changes in average daily weight gain compared to the control group that received PBS. The recombinant ADDomer-VLP vaccines demonstrated strong immunogenicity, effectively stimulating the production of neutralizing antibodies against both PEDV and TGEV. Moreover, the recombinant ADDomer-VLP vaccine induced elevated levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-4, and enhanced cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity in the peripheral blood of piglets.

Discussion

These recombinant VLPs have demonstrated the ability to induce strong cellular and humoral immune responses in piglets, making them an incredibly promising platform for the rapid and simplified development of epitope vaccines.
Acriflavine, a HIF-1 inhibitor, preserves vision in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model of optic neuritis
Authors: Anders Jeffrey J. , Elwood Benjamin W. , Kardon Randy H. , Gramlich Oliver W.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Optic neuritis (ON) is often an early sign of multiple sclerosis (MS), and recent studies show a link between HIF-1 pathway activation and inflammation. This study aimed to determine if inhibition of the HIF-1 pathway using the HIF-1a antagonist acriflavine (ACF) can reduce clinical progression and rescue the ocular phenotype in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) ON model.

Methods

EAE-related ON was induced in 60 female C57BL/6J mice by immunization with MOG33-55, and 20 EAE mice received daily systemic injections of ACF at 5 mg/kg. Changes in the visual function and structure of ACF-treated EAE mice were compared to those of placebo-injected EAE mice and naïve control mice.

Results

ACF treatment improved motor–sensory impairment along with preserving visual acuity and optic nerve function. Analysis of retinal ganglion cell complex alsoshowed preserved thickness correlating with increased survival of retinal ganglion cells and their axons. Optic nerve cell infiltration and magnitude of demyelination were decreased in ACF-treated EAE mice. Subsequent in vitro studies revealed improvements not only attributed to the inhibition of HIF-1 butalso to previously unappreciated interaction with the eIF2a/ATF4 axis in the unfolded protein response pathway.

Discussion

This study suggests that ACF treatment is effective in an animal model of MS via its pleiotropic effects on the inhibition of HIF-1 and UPR signaling, and it may be a viable approach to promote rehabilitation in MS.