bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengolahan Makanan Sehat Berupa Nugget Sayur sebagai Upaya Pengentasan Stunting pada Balita
Authors: Misdawita Misdawita , Manalu Wina Indy Natasya , Sormin Putri Adytia Dermawan , Purba Kristina , Handayanti Rani
Published: December 2023

Stunting is still a big problem in Indonesia, including Riau Province. One way to prevent stunting is to improve nutrition by eating healthy and nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables. The purpose of this service is to provide information and knowledge to the public about stunting so that people are more aware of the dangers of stunting, and can increase the skills of the community, especially mothers, to be able to process vegetables into food that is attractive to children. The method used in this activity is to provide information to the public about stunting reduction and recipes for processing vegetable nuggets in the form of posters and provide training in making vegetable nuggets through educational videos on YouTube. The target in this study were mothers who had babies and toddlers in Tanjung Rhu Village, Limapuluh District, Pekanbaru City, Riau Province, namely 30 people. The results that have been achieved from this activity are increasing the knowledge and skills of mothers in making vegetable nuggets up to 95%. With this activity, parents who have toddlers gain new skills in modifying healthy food into attractive food for children so that children no longer refuse to eat nutritious food.
Edukasi Kesehatan AMIR Sehat (Ayo Minum Air agar Sehat) pada Lansia
Authors: Saftarina Fitria , Angraini Dian Isti , Indria Anggraini Dwi , Diana Mayasari , Fauzi Ahmad
Published: December 2023

Indonesia will experience a very rapid increase in the elderly population until 2045. Physiologically, the elderly will experience a lack of fluids so that the body is more susceptible to dehydration so that knowledge and awareness of the elderly about the benefits of water for the body, the health risks due to dehydration and increasing the participation of the elderly in self assessment Urine Self Check (PURI) in the elderly in Tanjung Karang Pusat District, Bandar Lampung City. The purpose of service community was the changes of the behavior of drinking water and the Urine Self Check (PURI) method so that the body is healthy. The activity was carried out with a target of 52 people who joined the Elderly School in Tanjung Karang Pusat District, Bandar Lampung City. The solutions offered are health education about hydration for the elderly and the practice of self-examination of urine (PURI) using urine charts. The results obtained, before education is carried out, the knowledge of the elderly is obtained as a median of 40 with a minimum value of 20 and a maximum of 80 and after education, a median value of 90 is obtained with a minimum value of 60 and a maximum of 100. From the Wilcoxon analysis results, there is a significant difference between knowledge before and after health education (p=0.001, α= 0.005).This activity needs to be carried out in a sustainable manner as an effort to maintain health in the elderly community in Tanjung Karang Pusat District, Bandar Lampung City.
Optimalisasi Pengetahuan Ibu Hamil tentang ASI Eksklusif dengan Pendampingan Kelas Ibu Persiapan Mengasihi di Kota Singkawang
Authors: Nasla U. Evi , Julianti Umi Fania , Arofiani Fifi , Karina Karina , Jannah Sri Naimatul
Published: December 2023

Breast milk is the best and main food for the growth and development of a baby until 6 months old. The results of a global study prove that exclusive breastfeeding reduces deaths due to infection by 88% in infants aged less than 3 months. To increase the use of exclusive breastfeeding, acquainting oneself with the concept of early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) is necessary. It is considered to have a broad impact on the nutritional status and health of toddlers. The purposes of this community service are to increase the knowledge and understanding of pregnant women about exclusive breastfeeding, EIBF, breastfeeding techniques, and practical breastfeeding in an effort to increase the use of exclusive breastfeeding. The method used was giving education through the lecture method, discussions, demonstrations, and radio broadcasts. This activity targeted pregnant women in their third trimester in Singkawang City.The results of this society's devotion were an average improvement in mothers’ knowledge of Exclusive Breastfeeding from 69.67 to 88.67 after the implementation of the activity, as well as the mother’s interest in implementing IMD and giving Exclusive Breastfeeding. Therefore, it is expected to increase the achievement of the Exclusive Breastfeeding program.
Pemberdayaan Tim Pendamping Keluarga untuk Penurunan Stunting
Authors: Nurfatimah Nurfatimah , Longgupa Lisda Widianti , Ramadhan Kadar
Published: December 2023

Reducing stunting rates is a national priority, with ambitious goals to optimize child nutrition. Lantojaya Village's Empowering Family Support Team program serves as one of the solutions to prevent the birth of stunted infants. This community engagement activity aims to engage Family Support Team members as agents of change at the village level and reduce stunting rates through a family-focused approach.The program was held at Lantojaya Village Hall on May 19, 2023, with 25 participants. This includes identifying high-risk families, training and mentoring team members, and working closely with village governments. Evaluation of the program revealed positive changes in the knowledge and skills of team members in Lantojaya Village and a reduction in stunting rates. The success of this program represents a major step forward in efforts to prevent stunting and improve the quality of life for targeted families. This work is expected to reduce stunting, improve family knowledge about nutrition, and strengthen community commitment to keeping children healthy.
Transmission of COVID-19 in the presence of single-dose and double-dose vaccines with hesitancy: mathematical modeling and optimal control analysis
Authors: Wangari Isaac Mwangi , Olaniyi Samson , Lebelo Ramoshweu S. , Okosun Kazeem O.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The unexpected emergence of novel coronavirus identified as SAR-CoV-2 virus (severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2) disrupted the world order to an extent that the human activities that are core to survival came almost to a halt. The COVID-19 pandemic created an insurmountable global health crisis that led to a united front among all nations to research on effective pharmaceutical measures that could stop COVID-19 proliferation. Consequently, different types of vaccines were discovered (single-dose and double-dose vaccines). However, the speed at which these vaccines were developed and approved to be administered created other challenges (vaccine skepticism and hesitancy).

Method

This paper therefore tracks the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 using a non-linear deterministic system that accounts for the unwillingness of both susceptible and partially vaccinated individuals to receive either single-dose or double-dose vaccines (vaccine hesitancy). Further the model is extended to incorporate three time-dependent non-pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical intervention controls, namely preventive control, control associated with screening-management of both truly asymptomatic and symptomatic infectious individuals and control associated with vaccination of susceptible individuals with a single dose vaccine. The Pontryagin's Maximum Principle is applied to establish the optimality conditions associated with the optimal controls.

Results

If COVID-19 vaccines administered are imperfect and transient then there exist a parameter space where backward bifurcation occurs. Time profile projections depict that in a setting where vaccine hesitancy is present, administering single dose vaccines leads to a significant reduction of COVID-19 prevalence than when double dose vaccines are administered. Comparison of the impact of vaccine hesitancy against either single dose or double dose on COVID-19 prevalence reveals that vaccine hesitancy against single dose is more detrimental than vaccine hesitancy against a double dose vaccine. Optimal analysis results reveal that non-pharmaceutical time-dependent control significantly flattens the COVID-19 epidemic curve when compared with pharmaceutical controls. Cost-effectiveness assessment suggest that non-pharmaceutical control is the most cost-effective COVID-19 mitigation strategy that should be implemented in a setting where resources are limited.

Discussion

Policy makers and medical practitioners should assess the level of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy inorder to decide on the type of vaccine (single-dose or double-dose) to administer to the population.
Benchmarking software tools for trimming adapters and merging next-generation sequencing data for ancient DNA
Authors: Lien Annette , Legori Leonardo Pestana , Kraft Louis , Sackett Peter Wad , Renaud Gabriel
Published: December 2023

Ancient DNA is highly degraded, resulting in very short sequences. Reads generated with modern high-throughput sequencing machines are generally longer than ancient DNA molecules, therefore the reads often contain some portion of the sequencing adaptors. It is crucial to remove those adaptors, as they can interfere with downstream analysis. Furthermore, overlapping portions when DNA has been read forward and backward (paired-end) can be merged to correct sequencing errors and improve read quality. Several tools have been developed for adapter trimming and read merging, however, no one has attempted to evaluate their accuracy and evaluate their potential impact on downstream analyses. Through the simulation of sequencing data, seven commonly used tools were analyzed in their ability to reconstruct ancient DNA sequences through read merging. The analyzed tools exhibit notable differences in their abilities to correct sequence errors and identify the correct read overlap, but the most substantial difference is observed in their ability to calculate quality scores for merged bases. Selecting the most appropriate tool for a given project depends on several factors, although some tools such as fastp have some shortcomings, whereas others like leeHom outperform the other tools in most aspects. While the choice of tool did not result in a measurable difference when analyzing population genetics using principal component analysis, it is important to note that downstream analyses that are sensitive to wrongly merged reads or that rely on quality scores can be significantly impacted by the choice of tool.
Robotic knitcrete: computational design and fabrication of a pedestrian bridge using robotic shotcrete on a 3D-Knitted formwork
Authors: Rennen Philipp , Gantner Stefan , Dielemans Gido , Bleker Lazlo , Christidi Nikoletta , Dörrie Robin , Hojjat Majid , Mai Inka , Mawas Karam , Lowke Dirk , D’Acunto Pierluigi , Dörfler Kathrin , Hack Norman , Popescu Mariana
Published: December 2023

The research project presented here aims to develop a design-informed manufacturing process for complex concrete shell structures in additive manufacturing and thus overcome limitations of traditional construction methods such as formwork- and labor intensity. To achieve this, an effort was made to merge the two technologies of CNC knitted stay-in-place formwork, known as KnitCrete, and robotically applied shotcrete, known as Shotcrete 3D Printing (SC3DP), and thereby reduce their respective limitations. The proposed workflow unites both digital fabrication methods into a seamless process that additionally integrates computational form finding, robotically applied fiber reinforcement, CNC post processing and geometric quality verification to ensure precision and efficiency. As part of a cross-university, research-based teaching format, this concept was implemented in the construction of a full-scale pedestrian bridge, which served as a demonstrator to evaluate the capabilities and limitations of the process. While overcoming some challenges during the process, the successful prove of concept shows a significant leap in digital fabrication of complex concrete geometry, reducing reliance on labor-intensive methods. The results shown in this paper make this fabrication approach a promising starting point for further developments in additive manufacturing in the construction sector.
Water infrastructure in Central Asia: legal and institutional frameworks
Authors: Ziganshina Dinara
Published: December 2023

This article examines existing arrangements for the operation, maintenance and construction of water infrastructure of interstate use in Central Asia. The Central Asian countries take diverse approaches to joint management of key water infrastructure of interstate use, with some country owned facilities operated by regional organizations, some owned and operated by the country of location with operation and maintenance cost shared with another country and others owned, operated and funded by the country other than country of location. This diversity is due to the need to accommodate to new political, socio-economic and technical circumstances after gaining independence in 1992. The findings suggest that achievements on coordinated management of water infrastructure largely built in the Soviet time should be further strengthened in terms of better financial and technical mechanisms. It is also important to agree on region-specific provisions on prior notification procedures in cases of proposed use on transboundary rivers that might have a transboundary impact and on the joint and mutually beneficial construction of new facilities of interstate use.
Individual subject evaluated difficulty of adjustable mazes generated using quantum annealing
Authors: Ishikawa Yuto , Yoshihara Takuma , Okamura Keita , Ohzeki Masayuki
Published: December 2023

In this study, the maze generation using quantum annealing is proposed. We reformulate a standard algorithm to generate a maze into a specific form of a quadratic unconstrained binary optimization problem suitable for the input of the quantum annealer. To generate more difficulty mazes, we introduce an additional cost function Qupdate to increase the difficulty. The difficulty of the mazes was evaluated by the time to solve the maze of 12 human subjects. To check the efficiency of our scheme to create the maze, we investigated the time-to-solution of a quantum processing unit, classical computer, and hybrid solver. The results show that Qupdate generates difficult mazes tailored to the individual. Furthermore, it show that the quantum processing unit is more efficient at generating mazes than other solvers. Finally, we also present applications how our results could be used in the future.
Efficacy and safety of the vein of Marshall ethanol infusion with radiofrequency catheter ablation for the treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation in elderly patients
Authors: Luo Tao , Chen Yanhong , Xiong Xiong , Cheng Guanghui , Deng Chenggang , Zhang Jinlin
Published: December 2023

Background

Increasing age is a significant risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation (CA). We accomplished this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the vein of Marshall (VOM) ethanol infusion (VOM-EI) with CA in elderly patients with persistent AF (PsAF).

Methods

This retrospective observational study included 360 consecutive adult patients with PsAF, of which 141 were in the Elder group (age ≥65 years) and 219 were in the Younger group (age <65 years), who underwent the VOM-EI and radiofrequency CA (RFCA) between May 2020 and April 2022. The efficacy endpoint was no recurrence of AF within one year after CA.

Results

The VOM-EI was successfully performed in 90.8% of patients from the Elder and 88.6% from the Younger group. All patients achieved PVI; 97.9% of patients from the Elder and 98.6% from the Younger group reached LA roof block, and 93.6% of patients from the Elder and 95.9% from the Younger group achieved MI block. There was no significant difference in 1-year survival without recurrence of AF between the two groups (83.0% and 84.5%, respectively). The incidence of complications within 30 days after the procedure from the two groups was low and did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

The VOM-EI combined with RFCA proved to be an effective and safe strategy for treating PsAF in elderly and younger patients.
Bidirectional causal relationship between hypercholesterolemia and ischemic heart disease: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jiang Ying , Yu Wenpeng , Zhou Jianliang , Dong Xiao
Published: December 2023

Background

Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Hypercholesterolaemia, a metabolic syndrome distinguished by elevated cholesterol levels, is positively correlated with IHD, yet the precise causal relationship between these two health conditions remains to be clearly defined.

Methods

We conducted a two-sample MR analysis using genetic variants associated with hypercholesterolemia and IHD. Various statistical techniques including MR-Egger, Weighted Median, Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), Simple Mode, and Weighted Mode were employed. We also performed sensitivity analyses to assess pleiotropy, heterogeneity, and influence of individual SNPs. Furthermore, genetic co-localization analysis was performed to identify shared genes between hypercholesterolemia and IHD.

Results

Our MR study illuminated a bidirectional causal relationship between hypercholesterolaemia and ischaemic heart disease. Utilising the IVW with multiplicative random effects, upon considering IHD as the outcome, we identified an OR of 2.27 (95% CI: 1.91–2.70, p = 1.68 × 10−20). Conversely, when hypercholesterolaemia was viewed as the outcome, the OR detected was 1.80 (95% CI: 1.58–2.05, p = 2.79 × 10−19). These findings remained consistent across various MR methods and sensitivity analyses. Additionally, our research pinpointed four co-localised genes CELSR2, PCSK9, LPA, and APOE as integral candidates implicated in the pathogenesis of both conditions, thereby suggesting shared common genetic causal variants and offering potential targets for innovative therapeutic strategies.

Conclusion

bidirectional MR studies reveal genetic evidence of a potential causal link between hypercholesterolaemia and IHD. Notably, these findings also lend credence to the less traditional hypothesis that IHD may instigate hypercholesterolaemia episodes. Moreover, co-localisation analyses intimate the presence of shared genetic causal variants, paving the way for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Preservation of chemical and isotopic signatures within the Weißseespitze millennial old ice cap (Eastern Alps), despite the ongoing ice loss
Authors: Spagnesi Azzurra , Bohleber Pascal , Barbaro Elena , Feltracco Matteo , De Blasi Fabrizio , Dreossi Giuliano , Stocker-Waldhuber Martin , Festi Daniela , Gabrieli Jacopo , Gambaro Andrea , Fischer Andrea , Barbante Carlo
Published: December 2023

Alpine ice core research has long focused on a few suitable drilling sites at high elevation in the Western European Alps, assuming that the counterparts at lower elevation in the eastern sector are unsuitable for paleoenvironmental studies, due to the presence of melting and temperate basal conditions. However, it has been demonstrated that even in the Eastern Alpine range, below 4,000 m a.s.l., cold ice frozen to bedrock can exist. In fact, millennial-old ice has been found at some locations, such as at the Weißseespitze (WSS) summit ice cap (Ӧtztal Alps, 3,499 m a.s.l.), where about 6 kyrs appear locked into 10 m of ice. In this work, we present a full profile of the stable water isotopes (δ18O, δ2H), major ions (Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, NH4+, Cl−, NO3−, SO42−), levoglucosan, and microcharcoal for two parallel ice cores drilled at the Weißseespitze cap. We find that, despite the ongoing ice loss, the chemical and isotopic signatures appear preserved, and may potentially offer an untapped climatic record. This is especially noteworthy considering that chemical signals of other archives at similar locations have been partially or full corrupted by meltwater (i.e., Silvretta glacier, Grand Combin glacier, Ortles glacier). In addition, the impurity concentration near the surface shows no signs of anthropogenic contamination at WSS, which constrains the age at the surface to fall within the pre-industrial age.
Youth identity and postsecondary decision making in a rural state: evidence of a College for All master narrative
Authors: Seaman Jayson , Coppens Andrew D. , Hartman Cindy L. , Sharp Erin Hiley , Jusseaume Sarah , Donovan Molly
Published: December 2023

This study examined the normative messages that inform youth postsecondary decision making in a predominantly rural state in the northeastern U.S., focusing on the institutionalization and circulation of identity master narratives. Using a multi-level, ecological approach to sampling, the study interviewed 33 key informants in positions of influence in educational, workforce, and quality of life domains. Narrative analysis yielded evidence of a predominant master narrative – College for All – that participants described as a prescriptive expectation that youth and families orient their postsecondary planning toward four-year, residential baccalaureate degree programs. Both general and domain-specific aspects of this master narrative are elaborated, as well as findings indicating that the College for All ideology appears to both obscure and stigmatize the development and institutionalization of alternative postsecondary pathways. Implications for rural communities, rural mobility, and future research on narratives informing postsecondary options for youth are discussed.
Longitudinal growth in college student self-efficacy and intercultural competence attenuated by anxiety/depression
Authors: Peifer Janelle , Taasoobshirazi Gita , Meyer-Lee Elaine
Published: December 2023

Introduction

A wide range of stakeholders, including prospective students, parents, accreditors, future employers, and the general public, require detailed data on college outcomes. However, there are many challenges to producing such complex research tracking change over time in the higher education setting.

Methods

This multi-method longitudinal study at three different colleges was grounded in Input-Environment-Output and Social Cognitive theoretical frameworks. It examined: potential change on five different key psychosocial outcomes (i.e., self-efficacy, anxiety, intercultural competence, ethnic identity, and cognitive empathy), associations between these variables, and the role of race/ethnicity.

Results

Multilevel growth modeling revealed within and between subject changes over time. The findings provide evidence that liberal arts colleges focused on global learning can produce significant growth for students of all races on self-efficacy and intercultural competence, both outcomes that are valued for workforce readiness. However, the results also show that anxiety and depression symptoms attenuate growth in intercultural competence, which is concerning given other recent data on students’ mental health and wellness concerns.

Discussion

We discuss implications for student development practitioners and faculty alongside potential future directions for research in other higher education settings.
Exercise improves intestinal IgA production by T-dependent cell pathway in adults but not in aged mice
Authors: Hernández-Urbán Angel Joel , Drago-Serrano Maria Elisa , Cruz-Baquero Andrea , García-Hernández Ana Lilia , Arciniega-Martínez Ivonne Maciel , Pacheco-Yépez Judith , Guzmán-Mejía Fabiola , Godínez-Victoria Marycarmen
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Hypermutated high-affinity immunoglobulin A (IgA), neutralizes toxins and drives the diversification of bacteria communities to maintain intestinal homeostasis although the mechanism underlies the impact of moderate aerobic exercise (MAE) on the IgA-generation via T-dependent (TD) is not fully know. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of long-time MAE on the production of IgA through the TD pathway in Peyer´s patches of the small intestine from aged mice.

Methods

MAE protocol consisted of twenty 3-month-old (young) BALB/c mice running in an endless band at 0° inclination and a speed of 10 m/h for 5 days a week and resting 2 days on the weekend until reaching 6-month-old (adulthood, n=10) or 24-month-old (aging, n=10). Groups of young, adult, or elderly mice were included as sedentary controls (n=10/per group). At 6 or 24 months old, all were sacrificed, and small intestine samples were dissected to prepare intestinal lavages for IgA quantitation by ELISA and to obtain suspensions from Peyer´s patches (PP) and lamina propria (LP) cells for analysis of T, B, and plasma cell subpopulations by flow cytometry and mRNA analysis expression by RT-qPCR of molecular factors related to differentiation of B cells to IgA+ plasma cells, class switch recombination, and IgA-synthesis. Statistical analysis was computed with two-way ANOVA (factor A=age, factor B=group) and p<0.05 was considered for statistically significant differences.

Results

Compared to age-matched sedentary control, in exercised elderly mice, parameters were either increased (IgA concentration, IL-21, IL-10 and RDH mRNA expression), decreased (α-chain mRNA, B cells, mIgA+ B cells, mIgM+ B cells and IL-4 mRNA) or unchanged (PP mIgA+ plasmablasts and LP cyt-IgA+ plasma cells). Regarding the exercised adult mice, they showed an up-modulation of IgA-concentration, mRNA expression IL-21, IL-10, and RDH and cells (PP B and T cells, mIgM+ plasmablasts and LP cyt-IgA+plasma cells).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that MAE restored the IgA production in adult mice via the TD cell pathway but does not in aged mice. Other studies are necessary to know in more detail the impact of long-time MAE on the TD pathway to produce IgA in aging.
Local recurrence and metastatic disease in pheochromocytomas and sympathetic paragangliomas
Authors: Araujo-Castro Marta , García Sanz Iñigo , Mínguez Ojeda César , Hanzu Felicia , Mora Mireia , Vicente Almudena , Blanco Carrera Concepción , de Miguel Novoa Paz , López García María del Carmen , Lamas Cristina , Manjón-Miguélez Laura , del Castillo Tous María , Rodríguez de Vera Pablo , Barahona San Millán Rebeca , Recasens Mónica , Tomé Fernández-Ladreda Mariana , Valdés Nuria , Gracia Gimeno Paola , Robles Lazaro Cristina , Michalopoulou Theodora , Álvarez Escolá Cristina , García Centeno Rogelio , Barca-Tierno Verónica , Herrera-Martínez Aura D. , Calatayud María
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the rate of recurrence among patients with pheochromocytomas and sympathetic paragangliomas (PGLs; together PPGLs) and to identify predictors of recurrence (local recurrence and/or metastatic disease).

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study included information of 303 patients with PPGLs in follow-up in 19 Spanish tertiary hospitals. Recurrent disease was defined by the development of local recurrence and/or metastatic disease after initial complete surgical resection.

Results

A total of 303 patients with PPGLs that underwent 311 resections were included (288 pheochromocytomas and 15 sympathetic PGLs). After a median follow-up of 4.8 years (range 1-19), 24 patients (7.9%) had recurrent disease (3 local recurrence, 17 metastatic disease and 4 local recurrence followed by metastatic disease). The median time from the diagnosis of the PPGL to the recurrence was of 11.2 months (range 0.5-174) and recurrent disease cases distributed uniformly during the follow-up period. The presence of a pathogenic variant in SDHB gene (hazard ratio [HR] 13.3, 95% CI 4.20-41.92), higher urinary normetanephrine levels (HR 1.02 per each increase in standard deviation, 95% CI 1.01-1.03) and a larger tumor size (HR 1.01 per each increase in mm, 95% CI 1.00-1.02) were independently associated with disease recurrence.

Conclusion

The recurrence of PPGLs occurred more frequently in patients with SDHB mutations, with larger tumors and with higher urinary normetanephrine levels. Since PPGL recurrence may occur at any time after the initial PPGL diagnosis is performed, we recommend performing a strict follow-up in all patients with PPGLs, especially in those patients with a higher risk of recurrent disease.
Converting energy from overhead transmission line vibrations using a low-frequency and low-amplitude harvester in a smart grid
Authors: Tan Yisong , Li Shixun , Zhang Wenqiang , Wang Shuqing , Zhou Yang , He Yutong , Ren Limin
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Overhead transmission line vibration is detrimental to the normal operation of the power grid. It is necessary to remotely monitor overhead transmission lines with sensors in normal operation, and sensors require a constant source of energy. Harvesting energy from transmission line vibrations is an excellent solution to power these sensors.

Methods: A low-frequency and low-amplitude vibration energy harvester is proposed, analyzed, produced and experimented in this study. A main constituent of the energy harvester is an outer support, an inner support, four one-way bearings, a bevel gear system and a DC generator. The harvester converts the linear reciprocating motion of the line into reciprocating swing at first and then converts it into fixed-direction rotation. Theoretical analyses are conducted to determine the harvester performance factors. Finally, the harvester is fabricated and tested.

Results: The test results are in good accordance with the simulation results. At the vibrating speed as 0.48 m/s, the maximum output power and output voltage are 4.2 W and 24.7 V, respectively. The weather sensor and video recorder installed on the transmission line are powered by the harvester.

Discussion: The energy harvester also effectively suppresses the vibration of transmission lines and has great potential in the constructions of smart grids. The harvester provides a feasible solution for harvesting line vibration energy and suppressing line breeze vibration simultaneously.
Identification of driver genes in lupus nephritis based on comprehensive bioinformatics and machine learning
Authors: Wang Zheng , Hu Danni , Pei Guangchang , Zeng Rui , Yao Ying
Published: December 2023

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common and severe glomerulonephritis that often occurs as an organ manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the complex pathological mechanisms associated with LN have hindered the progress of targeted therapies.

Methods

We analyzed glomerular tissues from 133 patients with LN and 51 normal controls using data obtained from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and subjected to enrichment analysis. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to identify key gene modules. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and random forest were used to identify hub genes. We also analyzed immune cell infiltration using CIBERSORT. Additionally, we investigated the relationships between hub genes and clinicopathological features, as well as examined the distribution and expression of hub genes in the kidney.

Results

A total of 270 DEGs were identified in LN. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we clustered these DEGs into 14 modules. Among them, the turquoise module displayed a significant correlation with LN (cor=0.88, p<0.0001). Machine learning techniques identified four hub genes, namely CD53 (AUC=0.995), TGFBI (AUC=0.997), MS4A6A (AUC=0.994), and HERC6 (AUC=0.999), which are involved in inflammation response and immune activation. CIBERSORT analysis suggested that these hub genes may contribute to immune cell infiltration. Furthermore, these hub genes exhibited strong correlations with the classification, renal function, and proteinuria of LN. Interestingly, the highest hub gene expression score was observed in macrophages.

Conclusion

CD53, TGFBI, MS4A6A, and HERC6 have emerged as promising candidate driver genes for LN. These hub genes hold the potential to offer valuable insights into the molecular diagnosis and treatment of LN.
Overexpression of MTHFD2 represents an inflamed tumor microenvironment and precisely predicts the molecular subtype and immunotherapy response of bladder cancer
Authors: Shi Xiaokai , Peng Xiangrong , Chen Yin , Shi Zebin , Yue Chuang , Zuo Li , Zhang Lifeng , Gao Shenglin
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2), whose aberrant expression is common in cancers, has recently been identified as a potential regulator of immune response. However, its immune-related role in bladder cancer (BLCA) and its association with immunotherapy efficacy remain unclear.

Methods

RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was applied to analyze the immunological roles and prognostic value of MTHFD2 in pan-cancers. The association of MTHFD2 with several immunological features of tumor microenvironment (TME), including cancer-immunity cycle, immune cells infiltration, immune checkpoints expression, and T cell inflamed score was analyzed in TCGA-BLCA cohort. The predictors of cancer treatments effectiveness, including the expression and mutation of certain genes, molecular subtypes, and several signatures were evaluated as well. These results were validated by another independent cohort (GSE48075). Finally, the predictive value of MTHFD2 for TME and immunotherapy efficacy were validated using immunohistochemistry assay and RNA sequencing data from IMvigor210 cohort, respectively.

Results

MTHFD2 was found to be positively associated with several immunological features of an inflamed tumor microenvironment (TME) in various cancers and could predict BLCA patients’ prognosis. In BLCA, high expression of MTHFD2 was observed to be positively related with the cancer–immunity cycle, the infiltration of several immune cells, and the expression of immunoregulators and T-cell inflamed scores, indicating a positive correlation with the inflamed TME. Moreover, patients with high MTHFD2 expression were more likely to be basal-like subtypes and respond to BLCA treatments, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and target therapy. The clinical data of the IMvigor210 cohort confirmed the higher response rates and better survival benefits of immunotherapy in high-MTHFD2-expression patients.

Conclusion

Collectively, high MTHFD2 predicts an inflamed TME, a basal-like subtype, and a better response to various therapeutic strategies, especially the ICB therapy, in bladder cancer.
Local scale extreme low pH conditions and genetic differences shape phenotypic variation in a broad dispersal copepod species
Authors: Aguilera Victor M. , Sepulveda Fabiola , von Dassow Peter , Gaitán-Espitia Juan Diego , Mesas Andrés , Vargas Cristian A.
Published: December 2023

Extreme low pH events in estuaries and upwelling areas can modulate the phenotypic and genetic diversity of natural populations. To test this hypothesis, we explored the linkage between local scale extreme low pH events, genetic diversity, and variation in fecundity-related traits (body size, egg size, and egg production rate) in the broad-dispersal copepod Acartia tonsa. We assessed genetic and phenotypic characteristics of populations by contrasting extreme low pH environments (upwelling and temperate estuary) in the coastal Southeast Pacific, under natural and experimental conditions. These populations showed significant genetic differentiation with higher diversity in mitochondrial and nuclear loci (encoding mtCOI and 18S rRNA) in the estuarine population. Copepods from this population are exposed to more frequent extreme low pH events (< 7.7), and the adult females exhibit consistent phenotypic variation in body size, egg size, and egg production rate across different cohorts. Experimental acclimation to extreme low pH conditions revealed no significant differences in fecundity-related traits between A. tonsa populations. Although these results partially support our hypothesis, the experimental findings suggest other drivers might also influence phenotypic differences in the local environments.
The baseline for micro- and mesoplastic pollution in open Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga beach
Authors: Dimante-Deimantovica Inta , Bebrite Alise , Skudra Māris , Retike Inga , Viška Maija , Bikše Jānis , Barone Marta , Prokopovica Anda , Svipsta Sanda , Aigars Juris
Published: December 2023

Microplastic pollution has become widespread, occurring even in areas with low anthropogenic impacts, small human populations, and low tourism intensity. Marine beach sand represents the interface between inland and marine environments and acts like a fingerprint of all the processes happening within the onshore catchment and in the sea, driven by marine hydrodynamic processes. An extensive dataset is required from different coastal ecosystems to understand microplastic pollution. Here, we set the baseline for micro- and mesoplastic pollution distribution in 24 beaches along the Latvian coastline (Northern Europe, Baltic states), filling the existing knowledge gap and contributing to the global understanding of microplastic particles presence, transport, and the processes governing its dynamics. We also highlight citizen science as a fundamental tool to support data collection and raise awareness about microplastic pollution, as samples were collected by up to 250 volunteers during organized campaigns. To improve the understanding of the driving forces responsible for plastic pollution distribution along beaches, we analyzed sand granulometry, sample location, hydrodynamic variables (waves and currents), and tourism/leisure intensity. Our results demonstrate that the semi-closed Gulf of Riga beach environment contains fewer micro- and mesoplastic particles (0.10 particles/kg dry sand) compared to the open Baltic Sea (0.16 particles/kg dry sand). For microplastic size fraction particularly, a separate cluster can be distinguished showing a higher microplastic concentration and greater presence of fibers associated with coarser beach sand in the open Baltic Sea and eastern part of the Gulf of Riga. Recreational activity was not observed to have any statistically significant effect on microplastic distribution. We have concluded that hydrodynamics is an important factor for microplastics distribution and accumulation, but the impacts are of local scale, and results vary significantly among existing studies.
Potent ovarian development as being stimulated by cocktail hormone in the female Scylla olivacea
Authors: Saetan Jirawat , Duangprom Supawadee , Songkoomkrong Sineenart , Amonruttanapun Prateep , Phanaksri Teva , Surinlert Piyaporn , Samhuay Chompunut , Tamtin Montakan , Suwansa-Ard Saowaros , Cummins Scott F. , Sobhon Prasert , Kornthong Napamanee
Published: December 2023

The mud crab Scylla olivacea is widely cultured for its economic value, but reproduction issues limit its production. Vitellogenesis-inhibiting hormone (VIH), serotonin (5-HT), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) are important neurohormones that control reproduction in crustaceans. Mimicking crab hormone stimulation during reproduction has scarcely been reported. Comparison of the single hormone and multiple hormone approaches to crab hormonal control in S. olivacea is limited. In situ hybridization showed that injection of dsRNA-VIH could abolish its gene expression in neuronal clusters of female S. olivacea eyestalks, potentially reducing its inhibitory effects on ovarian maturation. This was confirmed by assessing the ovarian gonadosomatic index (GSI), hemolymph vitellogenin (Vg), an indicator of vitellogenesis, and gonad histology using dsRNA-VIH and 5-HT/GnRH combinations. Based on our findings, we demonstrated that administration of dsRNA-VIH significantly increased the gonadosomatic index (GSI) on days 14 and 28 post-treatment. The combination cocktail, however, consisting of 5-HT + GnRH + dsRNA-VIH on days 14 and 28, and GnRH + dsRNA-VIH on day 28, was the most efficacious in increasing GSI and enhancing crab ovarian maturation. Upregulation of hemolymph Vg levels was observed solely on the 28th day following treatment with dsRNA-VIH, 5-HT + GnRH + dsRNA-VIH, and GnRH + dsRNA-VIH. Differential gene expression analysis using quantitative RNA-sequencing of the neural tissues (brain and ventral nerve cord), revealed a significant upregulation of certain receptors (5-HTR, GnRHR, LHR, and FSHR), neuropeptides (sNPF, NPF1, NPF2, SIFamide, AKH/Crz, CHH, and RPCH), downstream reproductive-related genes (FAMeT, ESULT, progesterone-like protein), and prostanoid-related genes (phospholipase A and C, COX, Thromboxane A synthase, prostaglandin D, E, and F synthases) following treatment, particularly dsRNA-VIH + GnRH and/or 5-HT-injected individuals. Upregulation of prostaglandin E synthase and estrogen sulfotransferase genes was confirmed by real-time PCR. Since the construction and propagation of dsRNA-VIH is costly, its lower dose application supplemented with synthetic GnRH and/or 5-HT may be an alternative approach to ensure that female S. olivacea attain sufficient reproductive fecundity in aquaculture. Furthermore, we propose that the administration of multiple hormones in crabs may better emulate the physiological conditions of crustaceans in their natural habitat.
Molecular typing of canine parvovirus type 2 by VP2 gene sequencing and restriction fragment length polymorphism in affected dogs from Egypt
Authors: Magouz Asmaa , El-Kon Ismail , Raya-Álvarez Enrique , Khaled Enas , Alkhalefa Noura , Alhegaili Alaa S. , El-khadragy Manal F. , Agil Ahmad , Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Canine parvovirus-2 (CPV-2) is one of the most common infectious diseases in dogs characterized by severe gastroenteritis, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. Little information is available about this topic in Egypt, particularly in the Delta region. This study reports the prevalence and molecular analysis of CPV-2 variants collected from El-Gharbia and Kafrelsheikh governorates in the Delta of Egypt.

Methods

In this study, 320 rectal swabs were collected from infected domestic dogs from two districts in delta Egypt. The samples were investigated by rapid immunochromatographic test and polymerase chain reaction for detection the prevalence of CPV-2 variants. The genetic characterization was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis and partial VP2 gene sequence.

Results and discussion

The viral antigen was detected in (264/320, 82.5%) of samples by IC test, while PCR was found more sensitive by detecting (272/320, 85%) positive samples. The RFLP technique using MboII restriction enzyme was successfully used for the differentiation of CPV-2c antigenic variants from CPV-2a/2b strains. Interestingly, the molecular and phylogenetic analysis revealed that both CPV-2a and CPV-2c are circulating in the study area. Deduced amino acid sequence analysis showed changes at residue (N426E) and residue (T440A).: Our results indicated that CPV-2 is prevalent among dogs in Egypt, and therefore further molecular and epidemiological studies of CPV-2 are warranted.
Modifying the amino acids in conformational motion pathway of the α-amylase of Geobacillus stearothermophilus improved its activity and stability
Authors: Hu Yu-Ting , Hong Xi-Zhi , Li Hui-Min , Yang Jiang-Ke , Shen Wei , Wang Ya-Wei , Liu Yi-Han
Published: December 2023

Amino acids along the conformational motion pathway of the enzyme molecule correlated to its flexibility and rigidity. To enhance the enzyme activity and thermal stability, the motion pathway of Geobacillus stearothermophilus α-amylase has been identified and molecularly modified by using the neural relational inference model and deep learning tool. The significant differences in substrate specificity, enzymatic kinetics, optimal temperature, and thermal stability were observed among the mutants with modified amino acids along the pathway. Mutants especially the P44E demonstrated enhanced hydrolytic activity and catalytic efficiency (kcat/KM) than the wild-type enzyme to 95.0% and 93.8% respectively, with the optimum temperature increased to 90°C. This mutation from proline to glutamic acid has increased the number and the radius of the bottleneck of the channels, which might facilitate transporting large starch substrates into the enzyme. The mutation could also optimize the hydrogen bonding network of the catalytic center, and diminish the spatial hindering to the substrate entry and exit from the catalytic center.
Long-read MinION™ sequencing of 16S and 16S-ITS-23S rRNA genes provides species-level resolution of Lactobacillaceae in mixed communities
Authors: Olivier Sandra A. , Bull Michelle K. , Strube Mikael Lenz , Murphy Robert , Ross Tom , Bowman John P. , Chapman Belinda
Published: December 2023

The Lactobacillaceae are lactic acid bacteria harnessed to deliver important outcomes across numerous industries, and their unambiguous, species-level identification from mixed community environments is an important endeavor. Amplicon-based metataxonomics using short-read sequencing of partial 16S rRNA gene regions is widely used to support this, however, the high genetic similarity among Lactobacillaceae species restricts our ability to confidently describe these communities even at genus level. Long-read sequencing (LRS) of the whole 16S rRNA gene or the near complete rRNA operon (16S-ITS-23S) has the potential to improve this. We explored species ambiguity amongst Lactobacillaceae using in-silico tool RibDif2, which identified allele overlap when various partial and complete 16S rRNA gene and 16S-ITS-23S rRNA regions were amplified. We subsequently implemented LRS by MinION™ to compare the capacity of V3–V4, 16S and 16S-ITS-23S rRNA amplicons to accurately describe the diversity of a 20-species Lactobacillaceae mock community in practice. In-silico analysis identified more instances of allele/species overlap with V3–V4 amplicons (n = 43) compared to the 16S rRNA gene (n = 11) and partial (n = up to 15) or complete (n = 0) 16S-ITS-23S rRNA amplicons. With subsequent LRS of a DNA mock community, 80% of target species were identified using V3–V4 amplicons whilst the 16S rRNA gene and 16S-ITS-23S rRNA region amplicons resulted in 95 and 100% of target species being identified. A considerable reduction in false-positive identifications was also seen with 16S rRNA gene (n = 3) and 16S-ITS-23S rRNA region (n = 9) amplicons compared with V3–V4 amplicons (n = 43). Whilst the target species affected by allele overlap in V3–V4 and 16S rRNA gene sequenced mock communities were predicted by RibDif2, unpredicted species ambiguity was observed in 16S-ITS-23S rRNA sequenced communities. Considering the average nucleotide identity (ANI) between ambiguous species (~97%) and the basecall accuracy of our MinION™ sequencing protocol (96.4%), the misassignment of reads between closely related taxa is to be expected. With basecall accuracy exceeding 99% for recent MinION™ releases, the increased species-level differentiating power promised by longer amplicons like the 16S-ITS-23S rRNA region, may soon be fully realized.