bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kejadian Gangguan Kulit pada Petugas Sampah di Indonesia dan Faktor yang Mempengaruhinya: Studi Meta-Analisis Tahun 2016-2021
Authors: Yudha Alvina Amanta , Azizah R.
Published: July 2023

Latar Belakang: Sampah bisa memberikan dampak negatif terhadap kesehatan apabila pengelolaannya tidak tepat. Salah satu gangguan kesehatan yang bisa timbul adalah gangguan kulit yang sering terjadi pada pekerja di area pembuangan sampah dan dikategorikan menjadi penyakit akibat lingkungan kerja yang kotor.
Tujuan: Tujuan penelitian ini untuk menganalisis faktor risiko karakteristik, personal hygiene, dan pemakaian alat pelindung diri dengan kejadian gangguan kulit pada petugas sampah di Indonesia.
Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan metode meta-analisis dengan desain penelitian cross sectional. Sampel yang digunakan sebanyak 24 artikel penelitian dan pengolahan data dilakukan menggunakan JASP version 0.14.1 lalu dilakukan analisis data.
Ulasan: Hasil penelitian menunjukkan faktor karakteristik petugas sampah pada variabel kelompok usia yang lebih tua memiliki risiko 1,116 kali lebih besar, pada variabel kelompok lama jam kerja yang lebih lama memiliki risiko 1,197 lebih besar, dan pada variabel masa tahun kerja yang lebih lama memiliki risiko 1,138 kali lebih besar untuk mengalami kejadian gangguan kulit. Faktor perilaku personal hygiene petugas sampah yang tidak baik memiliki risiko 1.648 kali lebih besar untuk mengalami kejadian gangguan kulit. Faktor pemakaian APD pada petugas sampah yang tidak baik memiliki risiko 1,433 kali lebih besar untuk mengalami kejadian gangguan kulit.
Kesimpulan: Faktor risiko tertinggi pada penelitian ini adalah pada variabel personal hygiene dan pemakaian APD sehingga untuk mencegah dan meminimalisir terjadinya kejadian gangguan kulit pada petugas sampah, dapat ditingkatkan upaya dalam mewujudkan perilaku personal hygiene yang baik dan juga memakai APD dengan lengkap.
Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Tingkat Fertilitas di Indonesia: Review Literatur
Authors: Darki Ni Wayan Yustika Agustin , Wibowo Arief
Published: July 2023

Latar Belakang: Total Fertility Rate Indonesia tahun 2017 yaitu sebesar 2,4 yang artinya seorang wanita selama masa usia suburnya melahirkan adalah 2 sampai 3 anak. Namun angka tersebut belum memenuhi target RPJMN pada tahun 2015 yaitu 2,1. Tingginya tingkat fertilitas di suatu wilayah memiliki dampak negatif seperti terjadinya ledakan penduduk, lahan yang semakin berkurang, bahkan menyebabkan kekurangan bahan makanan, meningkatnya angka kriminalitas.
Tujuan: Untuk mengidentifikasi faktor yang mempengaruhi ffertilitas di Indonesia.
Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan metode literature review dengan menelaah 11artikel yang sesuai dengan topik dan tema yang telah ditentukan. Adapun database yang digunakan yaitu Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Pubmed, dan DOAJ.
Ulasan: Dari keseluruhan didapatkan bahwa faktor yang mempengaruhi fertilitas adalah umur, tingkat pendidikan, umur kawin pertama (UKP), pendapatan, alat kontrasepsi yang digunakan, status bekerja ibu, dll. Jumlah anak yan dilahirkan semakin besar seiring dengan peningkatan umur ibu. Namun berbanding terbalik dengan umur, semakin muda usia kawin pertama maka akan meningkatkan jumlah anak yang dilahirkan. Sedangkan pendidikan yang tinggi akan menurunkan  jumlah anak yang dilahirkan.
Kesimpulan: faktor yang berpengaruh pada tingkat fertilitas yaitu umur, tingkat pendidikan, umur kawin pertama, pendapatan, jumlah anggota keluarga, dan penggunaan alat kontrasepsi. Hal ini berkaitan dengan faktor lainnya seperti norma dan kepercayaan, sosial ekonomi, lingkungan, dan juga faktor demografi.
Hubungan Asupan Cairan dan Status Hidrasi pada Pekerja: Literature Review
Authors: Thom Fedora Micheala , Nadhiroh Siti Rahayu
Published: July 2023

Latar Belakang: Dehidrasi adalah suatu kondisi kekurangan cairan dalam tubuh yang disebabkan karena jumlah cairan yang keluar melebihi jumlah cairan yang masuk. Pekerja merupakan orang dengan risiko dehidrasi karena penggantian cairan yang kurang yang disebabkan oleh asupan cairan tidak mencukupi kebutuhan serta adanya peningkatan pengeluaran cairan melalui keringat, pernafasan dan metabolisme. Memastikan pekerja cukup terhidrasi merupakan salah satu cara meningkatkan keselamatan kerja dan produktivitas.
Tujuan: Mengetahui hubungan antara asupan cairan dengan status hidrasi pada pekerja.
Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan metode literature review dengan memilih desain cross sectional. Pencarian artikel dilakukan dengan strategi pencarian jurnal internasional maupun jurnal nasional.
Ulasan: Berdasarkan 12 artikel, terdapat hubungan yang signifikan antara asupan cairan dengan status hidrasi pekerja. Mayoritas pekerja mengalami dehidrasi akibat asupan cairan yang rendah.
Kesimpulan: Kesimpulan yang didapat adalah asupan cairan berpengaruh langsung terhadap status hidrasi, namun terdapat factor lain yang mendukung seperti kondisi lingkungan dan jenis cairan yang dikonsumsi.
Analysis of B3 Medical Waste of Health Facility in Banyuwangi Regency during the 2020 Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hanisya Arisma Ifatul , Yudhastuti Ririh , Puspikawati Septa Indra
Published: July 2023

Background: Most health service activities hospitals and health centers provide produce B3 medical waste. B3 medical waste is the residue from the results of service activities to patients containing B3 (Hazardous and Toxic Materials). The Covid-19 pandemic has an impact on increasing the amount of B3 medical waste produced by hospitals and health centers, this is because many health facilities are visited to get special treatment for patients exposed to Covid 19. The Covid-19 pandemic in Banyuwangi Regency has occurred since March 2020 and is increasing daily. This pandemic has affected the increase in medical waste produced by health facilities such as hospitals and health centers, especially in healthcare facilities that are referrals for Covid-19 patients.
Objective: This study aims to analyze the generation of B3 medical waste during the Covid-19 pandemic at hospitals and health centers in Banyuwangi Regency from March to December 2020.
Methods: The research method used was quantitative research and research studies using secondary data from the Banyuwangi Regency Environmental Service from March to December 2020 for analysis. This study used descriptive analysis techniques by displaying graphs and mapping the area per sub-district.
Results: The results of the research that had been carried out show that the generation of B3 medical waste from hospitals in the March - December 2020 period during the pandemic was 110,268 kg, the hospital that produced the largest B3 medical waste was Blambangan Hospital (46,343 kg). The largest generation of B3 medical waste from Puskesmas occurred in July (1709 kg), while the smallest occurred in December (382 kg). The sub-districts that produce B3 medical waste in the large category are Genteng and Banyuwangi (21,241 – 31,822 kg), and the medium category is Glenmore sub-district (10,661 – 21,241 kg).
Conclusion: B3 medical waste generated by hospitals is greater than B3 medical waste from health centers. This is because most hospitals are used as referral health facilities for handling Covid-19 patients. The total amount of B3 medical waste produced by hospitals is 110,268 kg, while B3 medical waste produced by puskesmas is 10,541 kg.
Pelaksanaan Asuhan Gizi Terstandar melalui Pemberian Diet Tinggi Kalori Tinggi Protein pada Pasien dengan Kejadian Dengue Fever (DF): Laporan Magang Kasus Dietetik Demam Berdarah (Studi di RS X Kota Sidoarjo)
Authors: Sabrina Hasna Nur , Rachmah Qonita , Adila Yulia
Published: July 2023

Latar Belakang: Pasien DF memerlukan asuhan gizi khusus untuk percepatan pemulihan dan mencukupkan asupan gizi. DF merupakan kondisi infeks akibat virus dengue disertai gejala prodromal nyeri kepala, nyeri berbagai bagian tubuh, anoreksia, menggigil dan malaise. Asuhan gizi terstandar dilakukan dengan pemberian diet tinggi kalori dan tinggi protein untuk memenuhi kebutuhan gizi pasien, menecgah kerusakan jaringan tubuh, menormalkan kadar sel darah putih akibat infeksi serta mengontrol berat badan.   
Tujuan: Mengetahui implementasi proses asugan gizi terstandar dan pemberian diet tinggi kalori tinggi protein pada pasien DF.
Metode: Studi kasus dilakukan bulan November 2021 pada pasien rawat inap RS X di Sidoarjo. Pengambilan sampel penelitian dilakukan dengan memilih pasien sesuai kriteria kasus besar yang sudah ditentukan sebelumnya oleh ahli gizi rumah sakit dan pembimbing magang. Pengambilan sampel penelitian dengan melihat rekam medis pasien atas persetujuan perawat jaga dan didampingi oleh ahli gizi rumah sakit. Metode yang dilakukan adalah observasi selama 3 hari pada aspek asupan yang dilihat dari 8 kali makan food recall 24H dan visual comstock, aspek fisik dengan wawancara, dan aspek biokimia dilihat dari rekam medis pasien. Peneliti juga melakukan studi literature untuk melengkapi data yang dibutuhkan.
Hasil: Setelah dilakukan intervensi gizi, kondisi fisik pasien mulai membaik ditandai dengan nafsu makan yang sudah mulai normal dan keluhan mual muntah yang sudah tidak ada. Asupan makan pasien yang sudah mulai membaik dari hari ke hari ditandai dengan sudah mencapai target (>70%). Namun pada hari terakhir intervensi asupan tidak mencapai target (<70%) dikarenakan pasien sudah diijinkan pulang oleh dokter yang bertanggung jawab.
Kesimpulan: Pada kasus ini pemulihan kondisi pasien berjalan cukup cepat. Sistem pencernaan pasien mulai membaik ditandai dengan hilangnya keluhan mual muntah sehingga asupan pasien juga ikut membaik.
The application of in situ liquid cell TEM in advanced battery research
Authors: Yuan Yi , Pu Shengda D. , Gao Xiangwen , Robertson Alex W.
Published: July 2023

The fast development of modern battery research highly relies on advanced characterisation methods to unveil the fundamental mechanisms of their electrochemical processes. The continued development of in situ characterisation techniques allows the study of dynamic changes during battery cycling rather than just the initial and the final phase. Among these, in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is able to provide direct observation of the structural and morphological evolution in batteries at the nanoscale. Using a compact liquid cell configuration, which allows a fluid to be safely imaged in the high vacuum of the TEM, permits the study of a wide range of candidate liquid electrolytes. In this review, the experimental setup is outlined and the important points for reliable operation are summarised, which are critical to the safety and reproducibility of experiments. Furthermore, the application of in situ liquid cell TEM in understanding various aspects, including dendrite growth, the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation, and the electrode structural evolution in different battery systems, is systematically presented. Finally, challenges in the current application and perspectives of the future development of the in situ liquid cell TEM technique are briefly addressed.
STUDY OF DRIVERS’ BEHAVIOR IN URBAN ROAD TRAFFIC
Authors: MATRAS Kamil , SIERPIŃSKI Grzegorz
Published: July 2023

The main aim of the research was to diagnose drivers' behavior in urban road traffic. It was preceded by careful observation and testing of drivers' behavior in terms of the violations assumed to be observed. It was taken into account, inter alia, aspects such as failure to comply with road signs and signals, behavior at the rail-road crossing, or offenses occurring in the pedestrian-driver relationship. During the observations, the assumption was to capture negative behaviors of drivers, but each time attention was also paid to positive behaviors related to road culture. The analysis of the results allowed the researchers to identify the most common mistakes made by drivers. This can help not only to better enforce regulations at selected measurement sites but also lead to improved education about these specific violations.
SOME DYNAMIC PROCESSES AT LONGITUDINALLY-TRANSVERSE SHIFT OF THE CARGO
Authors: MURADIAN Leontii , SHVETS Anzhelika , SHVETS Angela
Published: July 2023

The purpose of the work is to study the influence of the longitudinally-transverse shift of the cargo’s center of mass on the dynamic loading of the wagon in order to solve the problem of predicting the dynamics and stability of an asymmetrically loaded railroad vehicle. During the analytical simulation, a multibody model of the spatial oscillations of the wagon was used. The differential equations of wagon oscillations are compiled using the d'Alembert principle, while the wagon is considered as a system with 42 degrees of freedom. The work presents the results of analytical simulation of some dynamic processes of interaction of railroad vehicles with the rails on the example of flat wagons. The results of the analytical simulation are presented, taking into account the speed of movement along the curved sections of the railway track. The proposed multibody model "heavy cargo – wagon" makes it possible to analytically determine the dynamic characteristics of the system and ensure the development of such methods of transportation of heavy cargo that meet the requirements of train traffic safety. The application of the obtained results will help improve the running safety of freight wagons and enhance the technical and economic performance of railways.
OPTIMAL DOCKING PROBLEM OF UAV AT DETECTED MOVING OBJECT
Authors: NABADOVA Lamiya
Published: July 2023

In the article, the problem of detecting a suspicious object in the control by unmanned air vehicle (UAV) and tracking it by reaching and changing its direction in the shortest period of time is explored. To solve this optimal control problem, it is considered that the flight of UAV is described with simple motion equations. In the beginning, known quantities are current coordinates and speed of UAV, equation of motion of detected suspicious object.
ANALYSIS OF THE EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE MUNICIPALITY-OWNED PUBLIC BUS TRANSPORT SERVICE ENTERPRISE IN ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
Authors: GIRMA Mulugeta
Published: July 2023

To make decisions and exercise managerial control over the degree of input utilization, and produce desired outputs, it is important to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the municipality-owned public transit service operators. This study uses the Data Envelopment Analysis approach to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the public transit companies operated by the city administration in Addis Ababa. The size of the fleet and the total number of personnel serve as inputs, and covered vehicle kilometers and the number of passengers carried annually serve as outputs. Based on secondary information gathered from each firm, the technical efficiency and operational effectiveness of service providers are then examined. The study's findings show that the Anbessa city bus was efficient in using resources to produce output in 2019/20 and 2021/22, but wasteful in other years. In the same way, the Sheger City Bus was efficient in 2017/18 and 2021/22 but ineffective in all other years. However, the aggregate findings show that both research's efficiency levels are rising annually. Besides, with mean scores of 0.85 and 0.874, respectively, Anbessa and Sheger Bus were technically flawed. On the other side, operational effectiveness reveals that the Anbessa city bus was only effective in 2021/22. Furthermore, the Sheger city bus' effectiveness result has improved and started to be effective in 2017/18, 2018/19, and 2021/22. In conclusion, the Anbessa and Sheger city buses' efficiency and effectiveness ratings improved year over year and peaked in 2021/22. Hence, to support the business and boost its operational capabilities, the city administration should encourage public bus transit operators in the city and offer subsidies and other incentives to them based on their existing performance.
THE EFFECT OF TRAM MANAGEMENT ON ROAD TRAFFIC FLUIDITY AND ITS INFLUENCE ON DRIVERS’ BEHAVIORS AT A CRITICAL JUNCTION IN ALGERIA
Authors: KHELF Mouloud , BOUKEBBAB Salim , BHOURI Neila
Published: July 2023

This research paper aims to study the effect of tram management on traffic fluidity and its impact on car drivers’ behaviors at junctions crossed by trams. The methodology used in this research is based on a mathematical model and an investigation of car drivers. The first step is to analyze the data of annual travelers’ attendance and assess the number of trams offered and needed in operation to respond adequately to the factual demand. The second step proceeds to show how the previous results of the trams’ fleet influence traffic jams. That is, this step identifies how the number of trams used in operation blocks other motorists and reduces traffic flow capacity at junctions. Finally, the purpose of the questionnaire is to determine car drivers’ opinions of the causes of traffic congestion at junctions and understand how this phenomenon affects their behaviors. The outcomes demonstrate that tram management is ineffective because there is a considerable gap between the annual offered tram fleet and the actual one needed according to the real statistical data. The high number of trams utilized is the leading cause of traffic congestion. Furthermore, this situation disturbs the control of traffic lights at common intersections. Unfortunately, this outcome is the main reason for drivers’ poor behavior, as 75.20% of car drivers are always stressed. These issues have intensified traffic jams in several junctions along the tram line. The article recommends some solutions to improve tram management and traffic fluidity to avoid the substandard behavior of car drivers at junctions.
PERFORMANCE AND EMISSIONS CHARACTERISTICS OF A DIESEL ENGINE FUELED BY CARBON NANOPARTICLE-BLENDED DIESEL AND BIODIESEL
Authors: SLAVINSKAS Stasys , JOKUBYNIENĖ Vida
Published: July 2023

Carbon-based nanomaterials have excellent properties and can be used in fuels to reduce emissions and improve engine performance and fuel economy. Due to their unique thermal conductivity properties, nanoparticles are widely used in various ways. The current article analyzes research results on the influence of carbon nanoparticles on the working characteristics and emissions of internal combustion engines powered by diesel and biodiesel. Fuels were mixed with the nanomaterial CPL at different concentrations (50, 100, and 150 ppm). This article analyzes the influence of nanomaterial (carbon wafers) in diesel engines using diesel and biodiesel to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, evaluates the volume of nanomaterials as a fuel additive needed to improve emission performance, and investigates the problem of the practical application of nano-fuel (i.e., regarding dosage and stability).
NEW FUNCTIONALITIES OF THE WEIGH-IN-MOTION SYSTEM: iWIM SOLUTION
Authors: KONIOR Aleksander , KONIOR Tomasz , BRZOZOWSKI Krzysztof , MACZYŃSKI Andrzej , RYGUŁA Artur
Published: July 2023

This paper presents new functionalities for systems weighing vehicles in motion, which result from the integration of various measurement technologies and the use of a precise registration and data processing system. The utilized registration track provides accurate measurements of basic vehicle parameters such as axle load and vehicle speed and makes it possible to determine the location of the vehicle passing the weighing station, calculate the width of the tire tread, and detect twin (double) wheels. A key functionality is the assessment of the reliability of the measurement, taking into account, among other factors, vehicle movement dynamics and the ambient conditions during the measurements. For this purpose, additional measurements of road surface temperature and wind speed and direction were introduced. The technological solutions used and the proprietary data processing algorithms are described. Tests carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms and to assess the significance of the influence of the isolated factors permitted confirmation of the validity of the proposed solutions.
SIMULATION OF DELAYED BUSES IN A DUMPLING STATE AND ANALYSIS OF MAXIMUM WAITING TIME USING LOGISTIC REGRESSION
Authors: TANAMOTO Tetsufumi , SEKIGUCHI Haruya , ORIMO Souta , KAWAKAMI Taisei
Published: July 2023

As cities become larger and societies become more complicated, the corresponding transportation systems also become more complicated. Thus far, many important transportation models have been investigated and applied to societies. In this work, we analyze a bus transportation model that includes high randomness. By strengthening the viewpoint of the users, the bunching of buses is further explored and considered as “the dumpling bus state,” referring to cases when the next scheduled buses closely run behind a delayed bus for a while. It is described that waiting people are split into winners (people with shorter waiting times) and losers (people with longer waiting times). Waiting time is also analyzed using logistic regression to obtain the probability of people who continue to wait.
Phase Portraits of the Families VII and VIII of the Quadratic Systems
Authors: Cairó Laurent , Llibre Jaume
Published: July 2023

The quadratic polynomial differential systems in the plane are the easiest nonlinear differential systems. They have been studied intensively due to their nonlinearity and to their big number of applications. These systems can be classified in ten classes. Here we provide all the topologically different phase portraits in the Poincaré disc of two of these classes.
A Preliminary Study Indicating Improvement in Median Survival Time of Glioblastoma Multiforme Patients by the Application of deuterium Depletion in Combination with Conventional Therapy
Authors: Somlyai Gábor , Kovács Beáta Zs. , Papp András , Somlyai Ildikó
Published: July 2023

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and malignant gliomas are the most common primary malignant brain tumors. Temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy plus radiation therapy (RT), admi-nistered after debulking surgery, increased median survival time (MST) from 12.1 months with RT alone merely to 14.6 months. In this study, the action of deuterium-depleted water (DDW) on the survival of GBM patients who also received conventional therapies was investigated. Without changing the conventional treatment, the daily fluid intake of the patients was wholly replaced with DDW in 1.5-2 liters per day volume to reduce D concentration in their bodies. The primary endpoint was MST. The 55 patients involved, receiving conventional treatment and consuming DDW, showed longer MST (30 months) compared to the historical control (12.1-14.6 months). There was a massive difference between the two genders in the calculated MST values; it was 25 months in the male subgroup (n=33) and 42 months in the female subgroup (n=22). MST was 27 months without TMZ treatment (38 patients) and 42 months in the TMZ-treated group (17 patients). For the selected 31 patients, who consumed DDW in the correct way in addition to conventional treatments, MST was 30 months. Within this group, the 20 subjects who had relapsed before DDW treatment had 30 months of MST, but in those 10 subjects who were in remission when DDW treatment started, MST was 47 months. In the subgroup of patients who started DDW treatment parallel with radiotherapy, MST was 47 months again, and it was 25 months when DDW treatment started 8 weeks or later after the completion of radiotherapy. Altogether, survival times were substantially prolonged, compared to prospective clinical data of patients with primary GBM. Consequently, if conventional therapies are supplemented with D depletion, better survival is achieved in advanced stage of GBM than with the known targeted or combination therapies. Application of DDW is recommended in all stages of the disease, before surgery, parallel with radiotherapy, and repeated DDW courses are advised when remission has been achieved.
Assessing the Differentiation Capacity of Human Lung Fibroblasts towards Endothelial Cells for Potential Clinical Exploitation
Authors: Theodoroula Nikoleta F. , Giannopoulos-Dimitriou Alexandros , Saiti Aikaterini , Papadimitriou-Tsantarliotou Aliki , Sarigiannis Yiannis , Fatouros Dimitrios G. , Vizirianakis Ioannis S.
Published: July 2023

The role of mesenchymal-to-endothelial transition in the angiogenic response is controversial. Toward this, the present study aimed to determine if fibroblasts contribute to angiogenesis. Endothelial differentiation of fibroblasts was induced by culturing MRC-5 cells (human fetal lung fibroblast cells) on top of Matrigel hydrogel or embedded inside the hydrogel. The formation of ca-pillary-like networks in response to angiogenic signals was observed. The tube formation occurs quickly and can be visualized us-ing a phase-contrast inverted microscope, and/or the cells can be treated with DAPI before the assay and tubes can be visualized through fluorescence or confocal microscopy. Furthermore, fibroblasts cultured in a higher concentration invaded the Matrigel hydrogel and formed stem-cell-like spheroids. These spheroids embedded in matrigel matrices of varying densities sprouted to form 3D connective-tissue networks. Collectively, our results highlight the endothelial differentiation capacity of human lung fibroblasts. The results obtained in this work may have an impact on the search for alternative cell sources for vascular tissue engineering and the overcome of obstacles to vascularization of autologous tissue-engineered constructs and the production of functional grafts for clinical use.
Machine Learning Approach for Analyzing 3-Year Outcomes of Patients with Brain Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) after Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)
Authors: Rodríguez Mallma Mirko Jerber , Vilca-Aguilar Marcos , Zuloaga-Rotta Luis , Borja-Rosales Rubén , Salas-Ojeda María , Mauricio David
Published: July 2023

In this study, we developed a model that can predict whether patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) will be cured 36 months after intervention by means of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and identified the most important predictors that explain the probability of being cured. A machine learning (ML) approach was applied using decision tree (DT) and logistic regression (LR) techniques on historical data (sociodemographic, clinical, treatment, angioarchitecture, and radiosurgery procedure) of 202 patients with AVM who underwent SRS at the Instituto de Radiocirugía del Perú (IRP) between 2005 and 2018. The LR model obtained the best results for predicting AVM cure with an accuracy of 92.16%, sensitivity of 92.86%, specificity of 88.89%, precision of 97.50%, and AUC of 97.62%, which shows that ML models are suitable for use for predicting the prognosis of medical conditions such as AVM and can be a support tool for medical decision-making. In addition, several factors were identified that could explain whether patients with AMV would be cured at 36 months with the highest likelihood: the location of the AVM, the occupation of the patient, and the presence of hemorrhage.
Synthesis, 123I-Radiolabeling Optimization, and Initial Preclinical Evaluation of Novel Urea-Based PSMA Inhibitors with Tributylstannyl Prosthetic Group in Their Structures
Authors: Hasnowo Lutfi A. , Larkina Maria S. , Plotnikov Evgenii V. , Bodenko Vitalina , Yuldasheva Feruza , Stasyuk Elena , Petrov Stanislav A. , Zyk Nikolai Y. , Machulkin Aleksei E. , Vorozhtsov Nikolay I. , Beloglazkina Elena K. , Nenajdenko Valentine G. , Tolmachev Vladimir , Orlova Anna , Majouga Alexander G. , Yusubov Mekhman S.
Published: July 2023

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) has been identified as a target for the development of theranostic agents. In our current work, we describe the design and synthesis of novel N-[N-[(S)-1,3-dicarboxypropyl]carbamoyl]-(S)-L-lysine (DCL) urea-based PSMA inhibitors with a chlorine-substituted aromatic fragment at the lysine ε-nitrogen atom, a dipeptide as peptide fragment of the linker, including two phenylalanine residues in the L-configuration, and 3- or 4-(tributylstannyl)benzoic acid as prosthetic group in their structures for radiolabeling. The standard compounds ([127I]PSMA-m-IB and [127I]PSMA-p-IB) for comparative and characterization studies were firstly synthesized using two alternative synthetic approaches. An important advantage of the alternative synthetic approach in which the prosthetic group (NHS-activated esters of compounds) is first conjugated with the polypeptide sequence, followed by replacement of the Sn(Bu)3 group with radioiodine, is that the radionuclide is introduced in the final step of synthesis, thereby minimizing operating time with iodine-123 during the radiolabeling process. The obtained DCL urea-based PSMA inhibitors were radiolabeled with iodine-123. The radiolabeling optimization results showed that the radiochemical yield of [123I]PSMA-p-IB was higher than those of [123I]PSMA-m-IB, which were 74.9± 1.0% and 49.4 ± 1.2%, respectively. The radiochemical purity of [123I]PSMA-p-IB after purification was greater than 99.50%. The initial preclinical evaluation of [123I]PSMA-p-IB demonstrated a considerable affinity and specific binding to PC-3 PIP (PSMA-expressing cells) in vitro. The in vivo biodistribution of this new radioligand [123I]PSMA-p-IB showed less accumulation than [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 in several normal organs (liver, kidney and bone). These results warrants further preclinical development including toxicology evaluation and experiments in tumor-bearing mice.
The Emerging Role of Voltage-Gated Ion Channels in Cancer
Authors: Sakellakis Minas , Chalkias Athanasios
Published: July 2023

Preclinical evidence suggests that voltage gradients can act as a kind of top-down master regulator during embryogenesis and orchestrate downstream molecular-genetic pathways during organ regeneration or repair. Moreover, electrical stimulation shifts response to injury towards regeneration instead of healing or scarring. Cancer and embryogenesis not only share common phenotypical features, but also commonly upregulated molecular pathways. Ion channel activity is directly or indirectly linked to the pathogenesis of cancer hallmarks, while experimental and clinical studies suggest that their modulation may exert antitumor effects. A large recent clinical trial served as a proof-of-principle for the benefit of preoperative use of topical sodium channel blockade as a potential anticancer strategy against early human breast cancers. Apart from the obvious importance in perioperative medicine, it calls for the planning of further carefully designed clinical trials to expand on the concept of ion channels as tumor drivers.
The Contribution of Obesity and Hyperandrogenemia to the Risk of Metabolic Disturbances of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Defines the Therapeutic Approach. Clinical Implications
Authors: López-Alarcón Mardia , Vital-Reyes Víctor Saul , Almeida-Gutiérrez Eduardo , Maldonado-Hernández Jorge , Flores-Chavez Salvador , Dominguez-Salgado Juan Manuel , Vite-Bautista Jose , Cruz-Martinez David , Barradas-Vazquez Aly S , Z´Cruz-Lopez Ricardo
Published: July 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) usually comes along with metabolic disturbances attributed to androgen excess and obesity, but the contribution of each has not been defined, and the occurrence of metabolic disturbances is frequently not investigated. We evaluated 99 PCOS and 41 non-PCOS women. Clinical biomarkers of glucose-, liver-, and endothelial-related metabolic alterations were measured; participants were categorized into four groups according with obesity (OB) and hyperandrogenemia (HA) statuses: Healthy (no-HA, lean), HA (HA, lean), OB (no-HA, OB), and HAOB (HA, OB). Metabolic disturbances were highly frequent in PCOS women (70%). BMI correlated with all biomarkers, while free testosterone (FT) only with glucose- and hepatic-related indicators. Despite insulin sensitivity and liver enzymes were associated with FT, women with obesity exhibited lower M [coeff = 8.56 – 0.080(FT) –3.71(Ob); p <0.001)] and higher aspartate aminotransferase (coeff = 26.27 + 0.532(FT) + 8.08(Ob); p = 0.015)] than lean at the same level of FT. Women with obesity exhibited greater risk of metabolic disorders than lean, independently of hyperandrogenemia. Clinicians are compelled to search for metabolic alterations in PCOS women; obesity must be handled in all cases, but hyperandrogenemia needs to be managed also in those with glucose- or liver-related disturbances.
Continuous Improvement in Software Development and Digital Product Management: Addressing the Challenges of the Digital Economy
Authors: Moraga Roberto , Piñango Hugo
Published: July 2023

This manuscript explores the significance of continuous improvement in software development and digital product management, highlighting its role in addressing challenges and achieving superior results in today's dynamic business landscape. Drawing on Lean Thinking and Agile principles, the paper emphasizes the importance of customer focus, multidisciplinary collaboration, respect for people, inspection and adaptation, experimentation, incremental delivery, and continuous feedback in driving continuous improvement. It identifies key problems associated with the lack of continuous improvement, including quality issues, stagnation, inefficiency, lack of learning, lack of participation and collaboration, and lack of adaptability. To overcome these challenges, the paper proposes a solution that leverages agile events and interactions, such as sprint retrospectives and daily scrum meetings, and introduces a "kaizen board" as a visual tool to manage and monitor the continuous improvement process. The manuscript highlights the benefits of continuous improvement in terms of quality enhancement, efficiency gains, improved customer satisfaction, and adaptability to change. It stresses the need for fostering a culture of learning and constant adaptation, and provides insights on applying continuous improvement across different dimensions: product, process, team, and culture. The paper concludes by emphasizing the significance of commitment and active participation from all team members for achieving sustainable progress and success in digital transformation efforts.
Research Progress on the Structural Design and Optimization of Silicon Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Mini-Review
Authors: Yu Zhi , Cui Lijiang , Zhong Bo , Qu Guoxing
Published: July 2023

Silicon anodes have been considered one of the most promising anode candidates for the next generation of high-energy density lithium-ion batteries due to the high theoretical specific capacity (4200 mAh g-1) of Si. However, high lithiation capacity endows silicon anodes with severe volume expansion effects during the charge/discharge cycling. The repeated volume expansions not only lead to the pulverization of silicon particles and the separation of electrode materials from the current collector, but also brings rupture/formation of solid electrolyte interface (SEI) and also continuous electrolyte consumption, which seriously hinders the commercial application of silicon anodes. Structural design and optimization is the key to improving the electrochemical performances of silicon anodes, which has attracted wide attention and research in recent years. This paper mainly summarizes and compares the latest research progress for the structural design and optimization of silicon anodes.
New Diagnostic and Prognostic Models for the Development of Alcoholic Cirrhosis Based on Genetic Predisposition and Alcohol History
Authors: Mischitelli Monica , Spagnoli Alessandra , Abbatecola Aurelio , Codazzo Claudia , Giacomelli Marta , Parisse Simona , Mancina Rosellina Margherita , Rotondo Claudia , Attilia Fabio , Ginanni Corradini Stefano , Ferri Flaminia
Published: July 2023

Liver cirrhosis development is a multifactorial process resulting by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. The aim of the study was to develop accurate non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic models for alcoholic cirrhosis. Consecutive subjects with at-risk alcohol intake were retrospectively enrolled (110 cirrhotic patients and 411 non-cirrhotics). At enrollment, the data about the lifetime drinking history were collected and all patients were tested for PNPLA3 rs738409, TM6SF2 rs58542926 and HSD17B13 rs72613567 variants. In cross-sectional analyses, models for the diagnosis of cirrhosis were developed using multivariate logistic regression. A predictive score for cirrhosis development over 24 years was built by evaluating time-dependent AUC curves. The best diagnostic accuracy was demonstrated by the model which also includes daily alcohol consumption, duration of hazardous alcohol use and genetic variants, with AUCs of 0.951 (95% CI 0.925-0.977) and 0.887 (95% CI 0.925-0.977) for cirrhosis and compensated cirrhosis, respectively. The predictive model for cirrhosis future development (AUC of 0.836 95% CI: 0.769 - 0.904) accounted for age at onset of at-risk alcohol consumption and the number of PNPLA3 and HSD17B13 variant alleles. We have developed accurate genetic and alcohol consumption models for the diagnosis of alcoholic cirrhosis and the prediction of its future risk.
Roles of Exposure Time and Geochemical Factors in the Characteristics of the Surface Sediments of the Hwangdo Tidal Flat, Taean, Cheonsu Bay, West Coast of Korea
Authors: Lee Jun-ho , Woo Han Jun , Jung Hoi-soo , Jang Yeongjae , Jeong Joo Bong , Kim Keunyong , Seo Jae Hwan , Ryu Joo-hyung
Published: July 2023

The Hwangdo tidal flat is an intertidal landform located in Cheonsu Bay, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do, on the west coast of Korea. The topographical characteristics of the semi-enclosed bay on the eastern side of the study area include waterways, sandbars, small islands, and tidal flats. In this study, data were acquired from tide gauges installed on the Hwangdo Bridge, and the height of the ellipsoid was measured using a real-time kinematics global positioning system (RTK-GPS). Digital elevation model (DEM) using Matrice 300 drone data were also acquired after processing. The geochemical sediment characteristics in the study area were analyzed, together with tidal-flat exposure-time characteristics based on environmental factors. Sediment data (n = 107) collected from October 25 to 28, 2022 (Korean local time) were used to classify sediment particles according to Folk and Ward (1957). Sedimentary facies ranged from coarse sand (sand:mud ratio = 9:1) to sandy silt (sZ) followed by muddy sand (mS) and slightly gravelly sandy mud ((g)sM). Total organic carbons (TOC) in the surface sediments were also characterized based on a particle-size analysis. The mean change in tidal height measured at Hwangdo Bridge during the sampling period was ~7.53 m (minimum: –3.86 m, maximum: +3.67 m). Based on the Boryeong's sea level measurement tide data in 2022, the tidal area in the drone images ranged from 6.362 m2 (0.006 km2) at DEM +4.0 to 4,841,078 m2 (4.841 km2) at DEM –4.0 m, indicating an increase in the annual tidal-flat area according to the tidal level of up to ~800-fold. The daily average exposure time was 9.0 h (minimum: 1.5 h, maximum: 17.9 h). Based on the results of multivariate analysis using exposure times and a geochemical dataset, four groups were identified: upper, middle, and lower intertidal zones and regions with a relatively high organic-matter concentration. A determination of the main characteristics of the Hwangdo tidal flat according to their spatial distribution showed that, among various environmental factors, changes in the sand or clay sediment composition were determined by community factors. This natural environmental condition did not affect the statistically significant relationship between tidal-flat exposure times and tide changes, which is a normal topographical feature in the study area. The results of this study demonstrate the unique marine environmental characteristics in the Hwangdo tidal flats.
Porous PZT Films: How Can We Tune Electrical Properties?
Authors: Delimova Liubov A. , Seregin Dmitry S. , Orlov Georgy A. , Zaitseva Nina V. , Gushchina Ekaterina V. , Sigov Alexander S. , Vorotilov Konstantin A.
Published: July 2023

Porous ferroelectric lead zirconate-titanate (PZT) films are a promising material for various electronics applications. This study focuses on understanding how structure-directing agent (polyvinylpyrrolidone) can change structure and electrical properties of porous PZT films prepared by chemical solution deposition. The films with various porosity up to ~ 40 vol.% and pore connectivity changing from 3-0 to 3-3 were prepared and studied by capacitance-voltage, dielectric hysteresis, transient current, photocurrent, and local current techniques. We have found that the linear decrease in the material volume in a porous film is not the only factor governing film properties. The key role in changing electrical properties plays the creation of new internal grain boundaries. This research expands the understanding of physical phenomena in porous ferroelectric films and may enable the development of new materials and devices.
Changing Epidemiology of Viral Hepatitis in a Post-Soviet Country – the Case of Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Akmatov Manas K. , Beisheeva Nurgul J. , Nurmatov Asylbek Z. , Sattarova Gulsunai J. , Kylychbekova Saikal N. , Derkenbaeva Aisuluu A. , Abdrahmanova Zamira O. , Prokein Jana , Klopp Norman , Illig Thomas , Kasymov Omor T. , Nurmatov Zuridin S. , Pessler Frank
Published: July 2023

Historically, viral hepatitis is a considerable public health problem in Central Asian countries, which may have worsened after dissolution of the Soviet Union. However, up-to-date seroepidemiological studies are lacking. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to provide current estimates of seroprevalence of viral hepatitis in Kyrgyzstan, one of the economically least developed countries in the region. We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study in 2018 in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek (n=1075). Participants, children and adults, were recruited from an outpatient clinic. Data were collected during face-to-face interviews. A blood sample (6 ml) was collected from each participant and tested with ELISA for the presence of serological markers for five viral hepatitides (A, B, C, D and E). Poststratification weighting was performed to obtain nationally representative findings. The overwhelming majority of the study participants were positive for anti-HAV (estimated seroprevalence, 75.3%; 95% confidence interval: 72.5–77.9%). The weighted seroprevalence estimates of HBsAg, anti-HCV and anti-HDV were 2.2% (1.5–3.3%), 3.8% (2.8–5.1%), and 0.40% (0.15–1.01%), respectively. Anti-HEV seropositivity was 3.3% (2.4–4.5%). Of the 33 HBsAg positive participants, five (15%) were anti-HDV positive. Our study confirms that Kyrgyzstan remains a high endemic country for hepatitis virus A and C infections. However, seroprevalences of HBV and HDV were lower than previously reported, and based on these data, the country could potentially be reclassified from high to (lower) intermediate endemicity. The observed anti-HEV seroprevalence resembles the low endemicity pattern characteristic of high-income countries.
Digital Phenotyping - A Game Changer for the Broiler Industry
Authors: Neethirajan Suresh
Published: July 2023

In response to escalating global demand for poultry, the industry grapples with an array of intricate challenges, from enhancing productivity to improving animal welfare and attenuating environmental impacts. This comprehensive review explores the transformative potential of digital phenotyping, an emergent technological innovation at the cusp of dramatically reshaping broiler production. The central aim of this study is to critically examine digital phenotyping as a pivotal solution to these multidimensional industry conundrums. Our investigation spotlights the profound implications of 'digital twins' in the burgeoning field of broiler genomics, where the production of exact digital counterparts of physical entities accelerates genomics research and its practical applications. Further, this review probes into the ongoing advancements in the research and development of a context-sensitive, multimodal digital phenotyping platform, custom-built to monitor broiler health. I critically evaluate this platform's potential in revolutionizing health monitoring, fortifying the resilience of broiler production, and fostering a harmonious balance between productivity and sustainability. Subsequently, the paper provides a rigorous assessment of the unique challenges that may surface during the integration of digital phenotyping within the industry. These span from technical and economic impediments to ethical deliberations, thus offering a comprehensive perspective. The paper concludes by highlighting the game-changing potential of digital phenotyping in the broiler industry and identifying potential future directions for the field, underlining the significance of continued research and development in unlocking digital phenotyping's full potential. In doing so, it charts a course towards a more robust, sustainable, and productive broiler industry. The insights garnered from this study hold substantial value for a broad spectrum of stakeholders in the broiler industry, setting the stage for an imminent technological evolution in poultry production.
Species-Specific Responses to Human Trampling Indicate Alpine Plant Size Is More Sensitive Than Reproduction to Disturbance
Authors: Chardon Nathalie Isabelle , Stone Philippa , Hilbert Carly , Maclachlan Teagan , Ragsdale Brianna , Zhao Allen , Goodwin Katie , Collins Courtney G , Hewitt Nina , Elphinstone Cassandra
Published: July 2023

Human disturbance, such as trampling, is an integral component of global change, yet we lack a comprehensive understanding of its effects on alpine ecosystems. Many alpine systems are seeing a rapid increase in recreation, and in understudied regions, such as the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, disturbance impacts on alpine plants remain unclear. We surveyed disturbed (trail-side) and undisturbed (off-trail) transects along elevational gradients of popular hiking trails in the T’aḵ’t’aḵ’múy̓in tl’a In̓inyáx̱a7n region (Garibaldi Provincial Park), Canada, focusing on dominant shrubs (Phyllodoce empetriformis, Cassiope mertensiana, Vaccinium ovalifolium) and graminoids (Carex spp). We used a hierarchical Bayesian framework to test for disturbance by elevation effects on total plant percent cover, maximum plant height and diameter (growth proxies), and buds, flowers, and fruits (reproduction proxies). We found that trampling reduces plant cover and impacts all species, but that effects vary by species and trait, and disturbance effects only vary with elevation for one species’ trait. Growth traits are more sensitive to trampling than reproductive traits, which may lead to differential impacts on population persistence and species level fitness outcomes. Our study highlights that disturbance responses are species-specific, and this knowledge can help land managers minimize disturbance impacts on sensitive vegetation types.