bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Asupan Zat Gizi Makro, Pemberian MP-ASI, dan Riwayat ASI Eksklusif dengan Kejadian Stunting pada Anak Usia 6-24 Bulan di Suku Tengger
Authors: Rahmawati Anisah Firdaus , Muniroh Lailatul , Ni'mah Fina Zahrotun
Published: November 2023

Stunting is one of the nutritional major problems for toddlers globally. Based on the 2022 Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI), the stunting rate in East Java Province is still relatively high, namely 19.2%. This study aims to analyze the relationship between intake of macronutrients, Complementary Feeding Practice and Exclusive Breastfeeding History with Childhood Stunting Aged 6-24 Months in the Tengger Ethnic. This research method uses a cross sectional research design with a sample size of 42 respondents selected by simple random sampling. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires and interviews, measuring body length, and 2x24 hour food recall. Data were analyzed using Fisher's Exact test. The results of this study indicate that as many as 23.8% of children experience stunting. Based on the test results it is known that there is no relationship between the level of energy, protein, fat, and carbohydrates adequacy, as well as exclusive breastfeeding history, age first given complementary feeding practice, frequency of complementary feeding practice, number of complementary feeding practice, texture of complementary feeding practice (p>0,05) with stunting. The conclusion of this study is that the majority of the intake of macronutrients energy, protein, fat, and carbohydrates in children aged 6-24 months in the Tengger Tribe is mostly classified as deficient, the exclusive breastfeeding history is still low, and the complementary feeding practice related to the first age and the amount given is largely inappropriate.
Pengaruh Fungsi Pengawasan Internal dan Eksternal Perusahaan, dan Financial distress terhadap Manajemen Laba
Authors: Rosyanna Ocha , Mansur Fitrini , Zulma Gandy Wahyu Maulana
Published: November 2023

Delegation of management authority from owners to management within the company creates agency problems. With the separation between ownership and management of the company will bring up differences in interests between agents and principals. The management (agent) takes advantage of information asymmetry by modifying earnings information to achieve the company's goal of increasing profits. This study aims to test empirically regarding the effect of internal and external control of the company, and financial distress on earnings management. The population and sample in this study are property & real estate companies listed on the Indonesian stock exchange which were selected using the purposive sampling method, so that a total of 200 samples were obtained for the 2017-2021 period. Data analysis techniques in this study were descriptive statistical tests and PLS-SEM tests which included outer model tests and inner model tests. The results of hypothesis testing show that the company's external control and financial distress have an effect on earnings management, while the company's internal control has no effect on earnings management. The limitations of this research are that the companies that are the sample in this study only focus on companies in the property and real estate sector, and many companies do not publish their complete annual reports from 2017-2021.
Peningkatan Kinerja Ruas Jalan Akibat Aktivitas Pasar dan Pedagang Pada Bahu Jalan (Studi Kasus: Jalan Benteng Pancasila, Kota Mojokerto)
Authors: Adibah Amalia Nur , Ardiansyah Muhammad Adam Novan , Amal Andi Syaiful , Alamsyah Alik Ansyori , Darmawan Azhar Adi
Published: November 2023

Benteng Pancasila street often experiences congestion caused by excessive side barriers due to the large number of parked vehicles and vendors selling on the shoulder of the street. This study aims to improve Jl Benteng Pancasila section performance and forecasts for the next five years. This research is quantitative descriptive research that produces quantitative data and being analysis based on descriptive situation. This study shows that based on peak time and side resistance calculations, the final saturation (DS) value is 0.75 at LOS D. After implementing the improvement alternatives, the DS values are 0.71 for LOS C in 2022 and 0.82 in 2026. LOS value of D. This condition needs to alternative improvement to improve road performance Benteng Pancasila street.
Kebijakan Pemberian Vonis Mati Atau Pidana Mati Yang Ada di dalam Kitab Undang Undang Hukum Pidana Ditinjau Dari Formulasi Perspektif Pembaharuan Undang-Undang No 1 Tahun 2023 Tentang Kitab Undang-Undang Hukum Pidana
Authors: Putri Ina Malia , Rahmatiar Yuniar , Abas Muhamad
Published: November 2023

Capital punishment is a compelling and expansive type of discipline, and the discussion about the upsides and downsides of the death penalty go on today. The question of whether the death penalty should be retained in the Criminal Code or abolished in the justice system is inseparable from Indonesia's reform of criminal law, particularly through the creation of the Criminal Code. Despite the fact that its nature differs from that outlined in the Criminal Code, Indonesia will continue to use the death penalty, as evidenced by the Criminal Code Bill, which contains the death penalty. The purpose of this research is to identify the current legal formulation of death penalty policies in Indonesian criminal law and to examine the desired future legal formulation of death penalty policies in Indonesia. This study utilizes a subjective technique with a legitimate and administrative methodology as well as unmistakable scientific exploration details. According to the findings of this study, the death penalty is still regulated by Indonesian law as the primary form of punishment, resulting in disagreements between pro- and anti-death penalty groups. In the new version of Indonesian criminal law, change in death penalty policy, originally a principal punishment to become an alternative punishment . In the future, the death penalty will be a tangible expression of human rights that is in line with national and international perspectives.
Comparative Outcome between Intracervical Catheterization and Vaginal Misoprostol in the Induction of Labour in Intrauterine Fetal Death
Authors: Hoque Humaira , Walida Salma Akhtar , Parvin Salma , Sultana Chowdhury Shamima , Wareshuzzaman Md , Yasmeen Mst Nilufar , Ara Begum Hosne , Nahar Shamsun
Published: November 2023

Background & Objective: Induction of labour (ILO) is a standard obstetric approach to terminate the pregnancy. But it is always a challenge to many an obstetrician and is more so when the cervix is unfavourable. The intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) itself does not constitute an indication for cesarean section and surgery should be reserved for specific conditions, since it increases maternal morbidity without any fetal advantage. The present study was undertaken to make a comparative evaluation of the outcome of intracervical Foley’s catheter insertion and vaginal misoprostol in the induction of labour in pregnant women with IUFD.
Methods: This study was a comparative cross-sectional study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital over a period of one year between January to December 2013. A total 68 single-tone pregnant women with gestational age > 24 weeks, intact membrane and IUFD confirmed by sonography were consecutively included in the study. However, cases with temperature > 38˚C, placenta previa, chorioamnionitis, vaginal bleeding were excluded from the study. The recruited patients were randomly assigned to intracervical catheterization (ICC) and vaginal misoprostol (VMP) groups. While the independent variable was induction of labour, the outcome variables were time to induction, interval from induction to full-dilatation and thinning of the cervix (effacement) and time needed from induction to delivery.
Results: More than one-quarter (27.9%) of the patients were 20 or < 20 years. The patients were predominantly primipara (63.2%). Around two-thirds of the patients in either study groups received 10 – 20 units of oxytocin with no significant intergroup difference in terms of oxytocin needed (p = 0.793). The difference between the two groups in terms of pethidine needed to get rid of the labour pain was not statistically significant (p = 0.278). Time to induction in majority of the patients of both groups was 13 or < 13 hours and there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of time to induction (p = 0.380). About one-third (32.4%) of VMP group required < 15 hours from induction to full-dilatation (effacement) of cervix as opposed to only 11.8% of the ICC group (p = 0.014). Over half (52.9%) of the VMP group delivered their dead fetus in < 18 hours as compared to 41.2% of the ICC group (p = 0.331).
Conclusion: The study concluded that vaginal misoprostol is more effective and safe for cervical ripening and labour induction than Foley’s catheter in pregnant women with IUFD. Type and amount of analgesia needed and oxytocin required between VMP and ICC groups do not differ significantly.
Ibrahim Card Med J 2022; 12 (1): 25-29
The impact of classroom context on learners’ achievement in the post-basic school English curriculum in Burundi
Authors: Irambona Alfred , Syomwene Anne
Published: November 2023

In Burundi, the academic performance in English for post-basic school leavers is wanting. Many researchers attribute poor academic achievement to the quality of teaching but fail to investigate the role the classroom context plays in learners’ academic achievement. This paper is a report of part of a study undertaken in 2023 on evaluating the instructional influences of the post-basic school English curriculum for learners’ achievement in Burundi.  The paper specifically reports on the impact of classroom context on learners’ achievement in Burundi's post-basic school English curriculum.  The study used a convergent mixed methods design and was guided by Communicative Language Teaching and Social Learning theories. For data collection, learners’ questionnaires, teachers’ interviews, and classroom observations were used. The research participants were sixteen teachers of English and three hundred and thirty post-basic school learners in the second and third years of the languages section in the Bujumbura Municipality. The research participants were selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Data was analysed using descriptive and thematic analyses. The study revealed that teachers provided a welcoming learning atmosphere in their respective classrooms and promoted peer assistance. It was also established that teachers motivated learners to speak English differently, enhancing the learning process. It was revealed that teachers inspired learners in matters of using the English language (mean = 4.29, SD =.883). Moreover, the results showed that the classroom surroundings were generally perceived as noisy (mean = 2.95, SD = 1.327), and most of the classes were overcrowded (mean = 2.81, SD = 1.360). The study established that the classroom learning context greatly influenced learners' academic achievement (mean = 3.405, SD =.5030). The study recommended that the government should improve the classroom context for learners’ optimal academic performance in English.
Rancang Bangun Alat Monitoring Ketinggian Air Pada Reservoir Berbasis Internet Of Things
Authors: Kurniawan Rifki
Published: November 2023

Reservoir merupakan tempat penampungan air sementara sebelum disalurkan ke konsumen. Fungsi utama reservoir adalah untuk menyeimbangkan antara debit produksi dan debit penggunaan air. Saat ini, metode manual digunakan untuk menentukan ketinggian air reservoir, yaitu dengan menghitung anak tangga yang tersisa di atas ketinggian air reservoir. Metode manual ini memiliki kelemahan dalam hal kecepatan waktu dan keakuratan ketinggian air reservoir. Pada penelitian ini diimplementasikan sebuah sistem monitoring ketinggian air reservoir secara real time menggunakan platform Internet of Things (IoT). Sistem ini terdiri dari sensor ultrasonik untuk mendeteksi ketinggian air, kemudian data dikirim ke database mysQL, untuk dapat diakses dari perangkat monitoring atau untuk mengakses halaman website, ketinggian air direpresentasikan dalam nilai jarak (Cm). Sistem yang telah dilakukan bekerja cukup baik dengan rata-rata error 1,07%. Sistem informasi web ini dapat menampilkan data ketinggian air dalam bentuk numerik dan grafik. Sistem ini telah diterapkan di PDAM Way Rilau Bandar Lampung dan perlu dikembangkan dalam penerapannya.
Implementasi Sumur Resapan untuk Meningkatkan Drainase Perumahan Dirgantara Permai
Authors: Siswanto Henri , Pranoto Pranoto , Supriyanto Bambang , Djatmiko Bambang , Rahardjo Boedi
Published: November 2023

Many housing estates experience drainage problems, as a result of these drainage problems can be in the form of unpleasant odors, dirty and can be a medium for mosquitoes to grow. This also happened in the housing of Dirgantara Permai, Malang City. One of the efforts that can be done is improving drainage by building infiltration wells. Infiltration wells are implemented in the form of infiltration wells designed with the ability to absorb water according to local soil conditions. The results obtained from the implementation of infiltration wells are the better the drainage environment, the environment is cleaner and there is no bad smell.ABSTRAKBanyak Perumahan mengalami permasalahan drainase, akibat dari permasalahan drainase ini dapat berupa bau tidak sedap, kotor dan dapat menjadi media berkembangnya nyamuk. Hal ini juga terjadi di Perumahan Dirgantara Permai Kota Malang. Salah satu usaha yang dapat dilakukan adalah perbaikan drainase dengan pembangunan sumur resapan. Tujuan pengabdian ini adalah mengimplementasikan sumur resapan untuk meningkatkan drainase lingkungan. Sumur resapan yang diimplementasikan berupa sumur resapan yang didesain dengan kemampuan meresapkan air sesuai kondisi tanah setempat. Hasil didapat dari implementasi sumur resapan adalah lingkungan semakin baik drainasenya, lingkungan lebih bersih dan tidak ada bau tidak sedap.
The Protection and Antioxidant Mechanisms of Corticosteroids in LPSTreated Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: SJ Wang , HC Yeh , CL Kao , HT Li , WJ Li , SL Liu , CY Chen
Published: November 2023

Dexamethasone (DEX) and triamcinolone acetonide (TA) are two corticosteroids as anti-inflammatory agents that have been used as an anti-inflammation in several diseases to protect against oxidative damage. The present study examined the anti?oxidant effect of DEX and TA on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human retinol epithelium ARPE-19 cells. DEX and TA markedly inhibited the LPSinduced intracellular ROS level. DEX and TA also inhibited the expression of NADPH oxidase subunit gp91 and p22. Moreover, the expression of two antioxidant enzymes, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and gammaglutamylcysteine synthetase (gamma-GCS), were increased by DEX and TA treatment in LPS-treated ARPE-19 cells. These results indicate that DEX and TA inhibits the intracellular ROS response by blocking the NADPH oxidase pathway and may increase some antioxidant enzymes in LPS -induced ARPE-19 cells. Therefore, DEX and TA may be useful as antioxidant agents against oxidative damage in anti-inflammatory diseases.
Navigating the Post-COVID-19 Landscape: Data-Driven Revitalization of the Italian Healthcare System amidst Budget Constraints, Workforce Shortages and the PNRR
Authors: Cati Matteo Maria
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities of global healthcare systems, accentuating pre-existing challenges faced by nations, including Italy. In this article, we delve into Italy's innovative use of data-driven strategies, supported by the European Union's Next Generation EU initiative (PNRR), to reshape its healthcare landscape post-pandemic. Amidst budget constraints, workforce shortages, and an aging population, this endeavor gains significance as Italy charts a course toward adaptive resilience. Combining cutting-edge technology, intricate data synthesis, and advanced analytics, Italy's response navigates the complex landscape of healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and quality. The transformation encompasses not only resource allocation and personnel management but also patient empowerment, telemedicine adoption, and evidence-based policy-making. We explore the multidimensional nature of this journey, addressing challenges, nuances, and the promising horizons that data-driven solutions unfold within Italy's healthcare tapestry.
Formation features of the cold intermediate layer in the shelf slope zone of the northeastern part of the Black Sea during the period 2019-2022
Authors: Kuklev Sergey B. , Kukleva Olga N.
Published: November 2023

The article presents the results of monitoring of the hydrologic structure development in the northeastern Black Seashelf slope zone during 2019–2022. Over the study period, the cold intermediate layer (CIL) in its classical definition (a water layer bounded by isotherms of 8°C) did not form. A number of anomalies in its dynamics were identified. Warm winters and a background trend of temperature and salinity increase in the upper layer of the Black Sea are the reasons for the observed phenomena.
Tourists and the Carnivalesque
Authors: Andrews Hazel
Published: November 2023

This article uses the idea of the carnivalesque to “think through” party tourism as practiced by British charter tourists in the resort of Magaluf on the Mediterranean island of Mallorca. In addition, it considers the related idea of the European medieval fantasy Land of Cockaigne. Both the carnivalesque and Land of Cockaigne invite reflection on symbolic inversions that productively illuminate party tourism practices that are often underlain by transgressive behavior. The article uses the symbolic inversions associated with the carnivalesque of the unruly woman, male-female inversion, and the discourse of the grotesque as a means to understand party tourism practices. The discussion is framed within the context of a deep-rooted discourse of social class–based understandings of tourism-related travel. The condemnation of party tourism in Magaluf, which often occurs in UK-based news media outlets, follows a lineage of a demonization of the working classes that began at the start of industrialization. With the changes brought by industrialization, a demarcation arose between the working classes and the bourgeoisie that was focused on how and where carnival was performed. Based on periods of participant observation in Magaluf, the article notes that contemporary party tourism appeals to an imagination of a life other than that experienced in the quotidian world and that this bears comparisons with medieval fantasies associated with the Land of Cockaigne.
Wine Barrels, Bonfires, and Battling Beggars
Authors: Walsh Martin W.
Published: November 2023

Among the many scenes of seasonal festivity by Netherlandish artists of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries are a number that portray Martinmas, the November 11 feast of St. Martin of Tours, a late harvest festival and something of a mini carnival before the penitential season of Advent. These scenes are usually marked by the inclusion of the “Charity of St. Martin,” the venerable icon of a young soldier slicing his mantle in two with a sword to share it with a naked beggar, an image that is variously manipulated and often compromised. This article catalogs these artworks in various media (paintings, drawings, engravings, and tapestries) and attempts to ascertain the degree of documentary evidence (“genre interest”), as opposed to satiric/moralistic appropriation, that can be gleaned from the various festive motifs presented.
Editorial Note: Except where otherwise noted, content within this article and the Journal of Festive Studies is licensed under a CC BY NC ND 3.0 license. Please note that fig. 9, provided to us by the Trustees of the British Museum, is shared under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0) licence.
Approach for delabeling beta-lactam allergy in children
Authors: Sáenz de Santa María R. , Bogas G. , Labella M. , Ariza A. , Salas M. , Doña I. , Torres M. J.
Published: November 2023

A considerable number of pediatric patients treated with beta-lactam (BL) antibiotics develop delayed onset of skin rashes during the course of treatment. Although the most frequent cause of these symptoms is infectious, many cases are labeled as allergic reactions to these drugs. BL allergy labels could have a negative impact, as they imply avoidance of this group of drugs and the use of second-line antibiotics, leading to a potential increase in adverse effects and the utilization of less effective therapies. This constitutes a major public health concern and economic burden, as the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics can result in multidrug-resistant organisms and prolonged hospital stays. Therefore, it is crucial to delabel patients during childhood to avoid false labeling in adult life. Although the label of BL allergy is among the most frequent causes of allergy referral, its management remains controversial, and new diagnostic perspectives are changing the paradigm of managing BL allergies in children. Traditionally, drug provocation testing (DPT) was exclusively performed in patients who had previously obtained negative results from skin tests (STs). However, the sensitivity of STs is low, and the role of in vitro testing in the pediatric population is not well defined. Recent studies have demonstrated the safety of direct DPT without prior ST or serum tests for pediatric patients who report a low-risk reaction to BLs, which is cost-effective. However, there is still a debate on the optimal allergic workup to be performed in children with a benign immediate reaction and the management of children with severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions. In this review, we will discuss the impact of the label of BL allergy and the role of the different tools currently available to efficiently address BL allergy delabeling in children.
Cascading effects of hypobaric hypoxia on the testis: insights from a single-cell RNA sequencing analysis
Authors: Ji Yun-Hua , Wang Lin-Meng , Zhang Fu-Xun , Hou Hao-Zhong , Luo Zhi-Rong , Xue Qi , Shi Man-Man , Jiao Yong , Cui Dong , He Da-Li , Xue Wei , Wen Yu-qi , Tang Qi-Sheng , Zhang Bo
Published: November 2023

Most mammals tolerate exposure to hypobaric hypoxia poorly as it may affect multiple regulatory mechanisms and inhibit cell proliferation, promote apoptosis, limit tissue vascularization, and disrupt the acid–base equilibrium. Here, we quantified the functional state of germ cell development and demonstrated the interaction between the germ and somatic cells via single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). The present study elucidated the regulatory effects of hypobaric hypoxia exposure on germ cell formation and sperm differentiation by applying enrichment analysis to genomic regions. Hypobaric hypoxia downregulates the genes controlling granule secretion and organic matter biosynthesis, upregulates tektin 1 (TEKT1) and kinesin family member 2C (KIF2C), and downregulates 60S ribosomal protein 11 (RPL11) and cilia- and flagella-associated protein 206 (CFAP206). Our research indicated that prosaposin-G protein-coupled receptor 37 (PSAP-GPR37) ligands mediate the damage to supporting cells caused by hypobaric hypoxic exposure. The present work revealed that hypoxia injures peritubular myoid (PTM) cells and spermatocytes in the S phase. It also showed that elongating spermatids promote maturation toward the G2 phase and increase their functional reserve for sperm–egg binding. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for future investigations on prophylactic and therapeutic approaches toward protecting the reproductive system against the harmful effects of hypobaric hypoxic exposure.
Reactivation of telomerase reverse transcriptase expression in cancer: the role of TERT promoter mutations
Authors: Tornesello Maria Lina , Cerasuolo Andrea , Starita Noemy , Amiranda Sara , Bonelli Patrizia , Tuccillo Franca Maria , Buonaguro Franco M. , Buonaguro Luigi , Tornesello Anna Lucia
Published: November 2023

Telomerase activity and telomere elongation are essential conditions for the unlimited proliferation of neoplastic cells. Point mutations in the core promoter region of the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene have been found to occur at high frequencies in several tumour types and considered a primary cause of telomerase reactivation in cancer cells. These mutations promote TERT gene expression by multiple mechanisms, including the generation of novel binding sites for nuclear transcription factors, displacement of negative regulators from DNA G-quadruplexes, recruitment of epigenetic activators and disruption of long-range interactions between TERT locus and telomeres. Furthermore, TERT promoter mutations cooperate with TPP1 promoter nucleotide changes to lengthen telomeres and with mutated BRAF and FGFR3 oncoproteins to enhance oncogenic signalling in cancer cells. TERT promoter mutations have been recognized as an early marker of tumour development or a major indicator of poor outcome and reduced patients survival in several cancer types. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the role of TERT promoter mutations, telomerase expression and telomeres elongation in cancer development, their clinical significance and therapeutic opportunities.
The relationship between miR-21, DNA methylation, and bisphenol a in bovine COCs and granulosa cells
Authors: Sabry Reem , May Diana R. , Favetta Laura A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: miR-21 is a critical microRNA for the regulation of various processes in oocytes and granulosa cells. It is involved in the modulation of apoptosis and can influence other epigenetic mechanisms. Among these mechanisms, DNA methylation holds significant importance, particularly during female gametogenesis. Evidence has demonstrated that microRNAs, including miR-21, can regulate DNA methylation. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widespread chemical that disrupts oocyte maturation and granulosa cell function. Recent findings suggested that BPA can act through epigenetic pathways, including DNA methylation and microRNAs.

Methods: This study uses anti-miR-21 LNAs to explore the involvement of miR-21 in the regulation of DNA methylation in bovine Cumulus-Oocyte-Complexes (COCs) and granulosa cells, in the presence and absence of BPA. This study investigated 5 mC/5hmC levels as well as gene expression of various methylation enzymes using qPCR and western blotting.

Results and discussion: Results reveal that BPA reduces 5mC levels in granulosa cells but not in COCs, which can be attributed to a decrease in the methylating enzymes DNMT1 and DNMT3A, and an increase in the demethylating enzyme TET2. We observed a significant increase in the protein levels of DNMT1, DNMT3A, and TET2 upon inhibition of miR-21 in both COCs and granulosa cells. These findings directly imply a strong correlation between miR-21 signaling and the regulation of DNA methylation in bovine COCs and granulosa cells under BPA exposure.
Assessing turbulence and mixing parameterizations in the gray-zone of multiscale simulations over mountainous terrain during the METEX21 field experiment
Authors: Wiersema David J. , Wharton Sonia , Arthur Robert S. , Juliano Timothy W. , Lundquist Katherine A. , Glascoe Lee G. , Newsom Rob K. , Schalk Walter W. , Brown Michael J. , Dexheimer Darielle
Published: November 2023

Multiscale numerical weather prediction models transition from mesoscale, where turbulence is fully parameterized, to microscale, where the majority of highly energetic scales of turbulence are resolved. The turbulence gray-zone is situated between these two regimes and multiscale models must downscale through these resolutions. Here, we compare three multiscale simulations which vary by the parameterization used for turbulence and mixing within the gray-zone. The three parameterizations analyzed are the Mellor-Yamada Nakanishi and Niino (MYNN) Level 2.5 planetary boundary layer scheme, the TKE-1.5 large eddy simulation (LES) closure scheme, and a recently developed three-dimensional planetary boundary layer scheme based on the Mellor-Yamada model. The simulation domain includes complex (i.e., mountainous) terrain in Nevada that was instrumented with meteorological towers, profiling and scanning lidars, a tethered balloon, and a surface flux tower. Simulations are compared to each other and to observations, with assessment of model skill at predicting wind speed, wind direction and TKE, and qualitative evaluations of transport and dispersion of smoke from controlled releases. This analysis demonstrates that microscale predictions of transport and dispersion can be significantly influenced by the choice of turbulence and mixing parameterization in the terra incognita, particularly over regions of complex terrain and with strong local forcing. This influence may not be apparent in the analysis of model skill, and motivates future field campaigns involving controlled tracer releases and corresponding modeling studies of the turbulence gray-zone.
Theories, models, and best practices for decolonizing global health through experiential learning
Authors: Hawks Steven R. , Hawks Jenna L. , Sullivan Heather S.
Published: November 2023

The decolonization of global health is increasingly promoted as an essential process for promoting social justice, achieving health equity, and addressing structural violence as a determinant of health. Innovative curricular design for short-term, field-based experiential education activities in global settings represents an important opportunity for bringing about the types of change promoted by the movement to decolonize global health. To identify theories, frameworks, models, and assessment tools for short-term study abroad programs, we conducted a federated search using EBSCOhost on select databases (i.e., Academic Search Ultimate, Medline, CINAHL, and ERIC). A total of 13 articles were identified as relevant to curricular innovations, theories, and designs involving experiential education and learning in global settings that are consistent with the aims of decolonizing global health. The subsequent manuscript review revealed several common themes that inform planning, execution, and evaluation of global experiential education programs. Global education experiences can contribute to decolonization by seeking the interests of host communities. Recommended actions include treating local partners as equals in planning and design, providing compensation to hosts for resources and services rendered, creating opportunities for local practitioners to collaborate, interact, and share knowledge with students, and ensuring the rights of local participants are protected. Additionally, the aims of decolonization are furthered as student participants become aware of and are inspired to dismantle colonial practices. Transformational experiential learning includes engaging students with diverse communities and local knowledge, maximizing participation with local populations and community partners, and engaging in critical thinking and self-reflection culminating in intercultural competence.
Serum uric acid and risk of diabetic neuropathy: a genetic correlation and mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Youqian , Tang Zitian , Tong Ling , Wang Yang , Li Lin
Published: November 2023

Background

Previous observational studies have indicated an association between serum uric acid (SUA) and diabetic neuropathy (DN), but confounding factors and reverse causality have left the causality of this relationship uncertain.

Methods

Univariate Mendelian randomization (MR), multivariate MR and linkage disequilibrium score (LDSC) regression analysis were utilized to assess the causal link between SUA and DN. Summary-level data for SUA were drawn from the CKDGen consortium, comprising 288,648 individuals, while DN data were obtained from the FinnGen consortium, with 2,843 cases and 271,817 controls. Causal effects were estimated primarily using inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis, supplemented by four validation methods, with additional sensitivity analyses to evaluate pleiotropy, heterogeneity, and result robustness.

Results

The LDSC analysis revealed a significant genetic correlation between SUA and DN (genetic correlation = 0.293, P = 2.60 × 10-5). The primary methodology IVW indicated that each increase of 1 mg/dL in SUA would increase DN risk by 17% (OR = 1.17, 95% CI 1.02-1.34, P = 0.02), while no causal relationship was found in reverse analysis (OR = 1.00, 95% CI 0.98~1.01, P = 0.97). Multivariate MR further identified that the partial effect of SUA on DN may be mediated by physical activity, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), insulin resistance (IR), and alcohol use.

Conclusion

The study establishes a causal link between elevated SUA levels and an increased risk of DN, with no evidence for a reverse association. This underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy in DN management, integrating urate-lowering interventions with modulations of the aforementioned mediators.
Spatiotemporal evolution patterns and driving factors of arable land in Huaihai Economic Zone, China
Authors: Wang Peijun , Lin Ziqi , Wang Jing , Yang Yali , Mu Shouguo
Published: November 2023

The Huaihai Economic Zone (HEZ) has excellent topographic and climatic conditions and is recognized as one of China’s major grain production areas. Identifying the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of arable land and the driving factors can offer valuable insights for protecting arable land, optimizing land use layout, and developing ecological economics in HEZ. In this paper, we analyze the spatiotemporal evolution patterns using spatial autocorrelation, land use transfer matrix, and kernel density calculations and investigate the driving factors of arable land evolution with Geodetector. The results show the following trends in the distribution of arable land within the HEZ: 1) The kernel density distribution of the arable land in HEZ remained relatively consistent from 2005 to 2020, but the density showed a downward trend over time. 2) The distribution of arable land in HEZ exhibited lower density in the Northeast and higher density in the Southwest, showing growth in the initial stage and subsequent declines in the intermediate and final phases. 3) A significant positive spatial correlation was observed in the distribution of arable land in HEZ. The main local cluster types were the “high-high” and “low-low” clusters, and their distribution characteristics were similar to the kernel density of arable land. 4) The change of arable land in HEZ between 2005 and 2020 was primarily driven by the conversion of land types, with a notable shift towards grassland and construction land 5) The main driving factors affecting the spatial distribution of arable land in HEZ included traffic accessibility, air temperature, precipitation, elevation, and slope. The secondary driving factors were land use and soil type. Over time, population and GDP have also evolved into significant driving factors. 6) The factors were bi-enhance after the interaction. In the future, all cities within HEZ should implement rigorous control measures to limit the expansion of arable land usage. Their primary focus should be on revitalizing existing construction land while strictly upholding the “compensation determines occupation” principle. They should also work to optimize the arrangement of arable land and give increased consideration to the interactive effects of traffic accessibility, population, and GDP to protect arable land in a more focused and effective manner.
A detailed molecular network map and model of the NLRP3 inflammasome
Authors: Krantz Marcus , Eklund Daniel , Särndahl Eva , Hedbrant Alexander
Published: November 2023

The NLRP3 inflammasome is a key regulator of inflammation that responds to a broad range of stimuli. The exact mechanism of activation has not been determined, but there is a consensus on cellular potassium efflux as a major common denominator. Once NLRP3 is activated, it forms high-order complexes together with NEK7 that trigger aggregation of ASC into specks. Typically, there is only one speck per cell, consistent with the proposal that specks form – or end up at – the centrosome. ASC polymerisation in turn triggers caspase-1 activation, leading to maturation and release of IL-1β and pyroptosis, i.e., highly inflammatory cell death. Several gain-of-function mutations in the NLRP3 inflammasome have been suggested to induce spontaneous activation of NLRP3 and hence contribute to development and disease severity in numerous autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Consequently, the NLRP3 inflammasome is of significant clinical interest, and recent attention has drastically improved our insight in the range of involved triggers and mechanisms of signal transduction. However, despite recent progress in knowledge, a clear and comprehensive overview of how these mechanisms interplay to shape the system level function is missing from the literature. Here, we provide such an overview as a resource to researchers working in or entering the field, as well as a computational model that allows for evaluating and explaining the function of the NLRP3 inflammasome system from the current molecular knowledge. We present a detailed reconstruction of the molecular network surrounding the NLRP3 inflammasome, which account for each specific reaction and the known regulatory constraints on each event as well as the mechanisms of drug action and impact of genetics when known. Furthermore, an executable model from this network reconstruction is generated with the aim to be used to explain NLRP3 activation from priming and activation to the maturation and release of IL-1β and IL-18. Finally, we test this detailed mechanistic model against data on the effect of different modes of inhibition of NLRP3 assembly. While the exact mechanisms of NLRP3 activation remains elusive, the literature indicates that the different stimuli converge on a single activation mechanism that is additionally controlled by distinct (positive or negative) priming and licensing events through covalent modifications of the NLRP3 molecule. Taken together, we present a compilation of the literature knowledge on the molecular mechanisms on NLRP3 activation, a detailed mechanistic model of NLRP3 activation, and explore the convergence of diverse NLRP3 activation stimuli into a single input mechanism.
Antibody induced seizure susceptibility and impaired cognitive performance in a passive transfer rat model of autoimmune encephalitis
Authors: Pişkin Şura Akat , Korkmaz Hande Yüceer , Ulusoy Canan Aysel , Şanlı Elif , Küçükali Cem Ismail , Onat Filiz , Tüzün Erdem , Çarçak Nihan
Published: November 2023

Objective

Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is a distinct neuro-immunological disorder associated with the production of autoantibodies against neuronal proteins responsible for pharmacoresistant seizures, cognitive decline and behavioral problems. To establish the causal link between leucine-rich glioma inactivated 1 (LGI1) antibody and seizures, we developed an in-vivo antibody-mediated AE rat model in which serum antibodies (IgG) obtained from blood samples of leucine-rich glioma inactivated 1 (LGI1) protein antibody (IgG) positive encephalitis patients were passively transferred into non-epileptic Wistar rats. Serum IgG of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antibody positive patients were used as positive control since the pathogenicity of this antibody has been previously shown in animal models.

Methods

Total IgG obtained from the pooled sera of NMDAR and LGI1-IgG positive patients with epileptic seizures and healthy subjects was applied chronically every other day for 11 days into the cerebral lateral ventricle. Spontaneous seizure development was followed by electroencephalography. Behavioral tests for memory and locomotor activity were applied before and after the antibody infusions. Then, pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) was administered intraperitoneally to evaluate seizure susceptibility. Immunohistochemistry processed for assessment of hippocampal astrocyte proliferation and expression intensity of target NMDAR and LGI1 antigens.

Results

No spontaneous activity was observed during the antibody infusions. PTZ-induced seizure stage was significantly higher in the NMDAR-IgG and LGI1-IgG groups compared to control. Besides, memory deficits were observed in the NMDAR and LGI1-IgG groups. We observed enhanced astrocyte proliferation in NMDAR- and LGI1-IgG groups and reduced hippocampal NMDAR expression in NMDAR-IgG group.

Significance

These findings suggest that neuronal surface auto-antibody administration induces seizure susceptibility and disturbed cognitive performance in the passive transfer rat model of LGI1 AE, which could be a potential in-vivo model for understanding immune-mediated mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis and highlight the potential targets for immune-mediated seizures in AE patients.
Key genes and immune infiltration in chronic spontaneous urticaria: a study of bioinformatics and systems biology
Authors: Su Wenxing , Tian Yu , Wei Yuqian , Hao Fei , Ji Jiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is defined by the spontaneous occurrence of wheals and/or angioedema for >6 weeks. The pathogenesis involves skin mast cells, but the complex causes of their activation remain to be characterized in detail.

Objectives

To explore disease-driving genes and biological pathways in CSU.

Methods

Two microarray data sets, e.g., GSE57178 and GSE72540, with mRNA information of skin from CSU patients, were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. An integrated bioinformatics pipeline including identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), functional enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, co-expression and drug prediction analysis, and immune and stromal cells deconvolution analyses were applied to identify hub genes and key drivers of CSU pathogenesis.

Results

In total, we identified 92 up-regulated and 7 down-regulated genes in CSU lesions. These were significantly enriched in CSU-related pathways such as TNF, NF-κB, and JAK-STAT signaling. Based on PPI network modeling, four genes, i.e., IL-6, TLR-4, ICAM-1, and PTGS-2, were computationally identified as key pathogenic players in CSU. Immune infiltration analyses indicated that dendritic cells, Th2 cells, mast cells, megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitor, preadipocytes, and M1 macrophages were increased in lesional CSU skin.

Conclusion

Our results offer new insights on the pathogenesis of CSU and suggest that TNF, NF-κB, JAK-STAT, IL-6, TLR-4, ICAM-1, and PTGS-2 may be candidate targets for novel CSU treatments.
Metabolic influences on T cell in psoriasis: a literature review
Authors: Su Rina , Zhao Siqi , Zhang Jinqing , Cao Mei , Peng Shiguang
Published: November 2023

Psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disease that frequently coexists with various other conditions, such as essential hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease. The association between these diseases may be attributed to shared inflammatory pathways and abnormal immunomodulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, metabolites also play a regulatory role in the function of different immune cells involved in psoriasis pathogenesis, particularly T lymphocytes. In this review, we have summarized the current research progress on T cell metabolism in psoriasis, encompassing the regulation of metabolites in glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and other pathways within T cells affected by psoriasis. We will also explore the interaction and mechanism between psoriatic metabolites and immune cells. Moreover, we further discussed the research progress of metabolomics in psoriasis to gain a deeper understanding of its pathogenesis and identify potential new therapeutic targets through identification of metabolic biomarkers associated with this condition.
Diversity and community structure of microzooplankton in the eastern Indian Ocean during the inter-monsoon period
Authors: Zhai Jian , Sun Jun
Published: November 2023

Microzooplankton (MZP) are an important part of the microbial food web and play a pivotal role in connecting the classic food chain with the microbial loop in the marine ecosystem. They may play a more important role than mesozooplankton in the lower latitudes and oligotrophic oceans. In this article, we studied the species composition, dominant species, abundance, and carbon biomass of MZP, including the relationship between biological variables and environmental factors in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean during the spring intermonsoon. We found that the MZP community in this ocean showed a high species diversity, with a total of 340 species. Among these, the heterotrophic dinoflagellates (HDS) (205 species) and ciliates (CTS) (126 species) were found to occupy the most significant advantageous position. In addition, CTS (45.3%) and HDS (39.7%) accounted for a larger proportion of the population abundance, while HDS (47.1%) and copepod nauplii (CNP) (46.4%) made a larger contribution to the carbon biomass. There are significant differences in the ability of different groups of MZP to assimilate organic carbon. In this sea area, MZP are affected by periodic currents, and temperature is the main factor affecting the distribution of the community. The MZP community is dominated by eurytopic species and CNP. CTS are more sensitive to environmental changes than HDS, among which Ascampbelliella armilla may be a better habitat indicator species. In low-latitude and oligotrophic ocean areas, phytoplankton with smaller cell diameters were found to occupy a higher proportion, while there was no significant correlation between the total concentration of integrated chlorophyll a and the biological variables of MZP. Therefore, we propose that the relationship between size-fractionated phytoplankton and MZP deserves further study. In addition, the estimation of the carbon biomass of MZP requires the establishment of more detailed experimental methods to reflect the real situation of organisms. This study provides more comprehensive data for understanding the diversity and community structure of MZP in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean, which is also of good value for studying the adaptation mechanism and ecological functions of MZP in low-latitude and oligotrophic ocean ecosystems.
Diesel engine waste heat recovery turbine design: geometric and materials effects on ORC turbines
Authors: Dragos Alexandru Vasile , Pesyridis Apostolos , Alshammari Fuhaid , Sphicas Panos , Kourmpetis Miltiadis
Published: November 2023

The significance of this work is the demonstration that an ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) system can be successfully implemented on heavy-duty vehicles and contribute to fuel consumption (and emissions) reduction. Additionally, this paper focuses on providing due consideration to the materials aspects of the most critical component of the ORC system, namely, the turbine—expander. The expander of an ORC system optimized off an experimental prototype coupled to a 7 L diesel engine and optimized from the point of view of the rotor geometry, materials and clearances to be applicable to the specific experimental setup. The optimum clearance between the rotor blades and shroud, in terms of performance and economical aspects, was calculated at 0.4 mm. Based on the initial geometry of the ORC turbine, for this particular application and optimising for performance, refrigerant R134a was found to be the best choice. Then the rotor geometry was optimized using ANSYS simulation. The maximum performance obtained by the expander to achieve 72.95% total to static isentropic efficiency. It was calculated on GT-Power that the optimized ORC system, implemented on a heavy-duty vehicle, can reduce fuel consumption by up to 17%.