bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unexpected Inverse Relationship of Insulin Resistance and Serum Homocysteine in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Rosolová H , Šimon J , Mayer O , Racek J , Dierzé T , Jacobsen DW
Published: November 2023

Mild hyperhomocysteinemia has been established as a new independent risk factor for atherosclerosis and thrombosis. The metabolic syndrome of insulin resistance is associated with a high risk of coronary heart disease. Our objective was to determine if any relationship exists between the metabolic syndrome of insulin resistance in non-diabetic subjects and total serum homocysteine levels. Sixty-six healthy volunteers (33 males and 33 females) were selected from the population of Pilsen. Insulin resistance was measured by the Insulin Suppression Test using Octreotide. Steady-state plasma glucose concentrations at the end of the test period provided a quantitative measure of insulin resistance. Serum homocysteine level was estimated by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Serum folate and vitamin B12 were estimated using commercial kits on an Abbott IMx analyzer. All other laboratory tests were performed by standard methods in a routine biochemical laboratory. Subjects with the highest tertile of steady-state plasma glucose showed a significantly higher body mass index, blood pressure, fasting plasma triglyceride levels, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and lower HDL-cholesterol, i.e. an insulin resistance pattern. These subjects had significantly lower serum homocysteine levels compared with non-insulin resistant subjects. The negative association of insulin resistance and serum homocysteine was unexpected. The contribution of plasma folate levels to serum homocysteine levels and serum creatinine was significantly negative and positive, respectively.
RANCANG BANGUN APLIKASI INVENTARIS PERALATAN PADA BADAN METEOROLOGI KLIMATOLOGI DAN GEOFISIKA (BMKG) PALEMBANG
Authors: Jannah Wardah Miftahul , Farlevi Fatur Ilham , Safwan Muhammad Rizky , Sutabri Tata , Yudiastuti Helda , Irwansyah Irwansyah
Published: November 2023

Sistem Informasi pengolahan data yang cepat dan akurat sangat dibutuhkan oleh sebuah perusahaan ataupun kantor pemerintahan terutama pada Badan Meteorologi Klimatologi dan Geofisika (BMKG) kota Palembang Pengolahan data peralatan yang digunakan masih menggunakan Aplikasi Komputer biasa yaitu Microsoft Word dan Excel , Penggunaan paket aplikasi tersebut dirasakan kurang memadai karena aplikasi tersebut tidak dapat mengelompokkan sejumlah data dengan kriteria-kriteria tertentu, misalnya laporan data daftar inventaris stasiun berdasarkan kegunaan dan jenis peralatan. Selain itu data antar tabel tidak dapat direlasikan sehingga akan menimbulkan redundancy data hal ini dirasa kurang efisien membuat waktu menjadi sedikit terhambat, tentunya pada laporan peralatan inventaris tersebut. Untuk itu perlu penerapan pengolahan data peralatan inventaris yang lebih baik dan cepat dengan membangun sebuah aplikasi pengolahan data inventaris, metode pengembangan sistem yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode prototype, Metode sangat ini cocok digunakan untuk mengembangkan sebuah perangkat yang akan dikembangkan Kembali. Penelitian ini menghasilkan sebuah sistem inventaris peralatan yang dapat memudahkan pegawai dalam mendata barang inventaris serta memudahkan pegawai dalam membuat laporan data barang inverntaris.
Bujukan Visualisasi Barang dan Harga pada Keputusan Pembelian di E-commerce Shopee
Authors: Ahadiat Nurul , Fatah R. Hozin Abdul , Sobari Hendi
Published: November 2023

Many online customers cancel their product orders, which is undesirable for anyone as it reduces the number of purchases. Product visualisation and price are important factors for customers' purchasing decisions in e-commerce. These two factors attract consumers' attention, and they may cancel their purchases due to unattractive product displays and mismatched prices. This study seeks to reveal how much influence visualising goods and prices has on purchasing decisions. The number of research samples is 97 respondents. The research object is in Sukakerta Village. The quantitative descriptive method is used; the data comes from primary and secondary data with the help of computational software SPSS ver. 18. The research results show that product visualisation and price positively influence purchasing decisions on Shopee, with an F-value of 103.111 > F-table 3.92 with a significance level of 0.000 < 0.05. This result means that the visualisation of goods and prices together significantly influence purchasing decisions.

Keywords: Product Visualisation, Price, Purchasing Decision

Abstrak

Tidak sedikit konsumen online yang membatalkan order produknya, dan tentu saja hal tersebut tidak diinginkan oleh siapapun dikarenakan pasti mengurangi jumlah pembelian. Visualisasi produk dan harga menjadi poin penting bagi konsumen dalam keputusan pembelian di e-commerce, 2 faktor tersebut menjadi sorotan konsumen karena memiliki daya tarik tersendiri, tidak sedikit dari mereka membatalkan pembelian karena tampilan barang yang dianggap kurang menarik serta harga yang dirasa tidak sesuai. Penelitian ini berupaya mengungkap berapa besar pengaruh visualisasi barang dan harga pada keputusan pembelian. Jumlah sampel penelitian sebanyak 97 responden. Objek penelitian di Desa Sukakerta. Metoda yang digunakan yaitu metode deskriptif kuantitatif, data berasal dari data primer dan data sekunder dengan komputasi bantuan software SPSS ver. 18. Hasil penelitian memperlihatkan bahwa visualisasi barang dan harga berpengaruh positif kepada keputusan pembelian di Shopee, dengan nilai Fhitung 103.111 > Ftabel 3,92 dengan taraf signifikansi 0,000 < 0,05. Ini berarti bahwa visualisasi barang dan harga secara bersama-sama dan signifikan mempengaruhi keputusan pembelian.

Kata kunci: Visualisasi Produk, Harga, Keputusan Pembelian
CSR Disclosure in Indonesian SOEs
Authors: Lim Elvina , Noviarty Helisa
Published: November 2023

As sustainable development is echoed, environmental and social matters and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are increasingly being considered. Some companies are increasingly aggressive in disclosing their CSR, but some still need to be more optimal. This study aims to determine what factors can influence the disclosure of CSR in Indonesian SOEs. This study used multiple linear regression analysis with 51 samples observed. The results obtained in this study show that the size of the company, the type of sector, and the size of the board of directors positively affect CSR disclosure. In contrast, the involvement of female board members and green accounting have no influence. This research is expected to add insight and increase further references for future researchers and investors to discover the factors that affect CSR disclosure and can help decision-making.

Keywords: CSR Disclosure, SOEs, Sectors Type, Directors

Abstrak

Seiring dengan digaungkannya pembangunan berkelanjutan, hal-hal yang berkaitan dengan lingkungan dan sosial semakin diperhatikan, begitu juga dengan tanggungjawab sosial perusahaan. Beberapa perusahaan semakin gencar dalam mengungkapkan tanggung jawab sosial perusahaannya, namun ada juga yang masih kurang maksimal. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mencari tahu faktor apa saja yang dapat memengaruhi pengungkapan tanggungjawab sosial perusahaan pada BUMN Indonesia. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis regresi linier berganda dengan total sampel yang diobservasi sebanyak 51 buah. Hasil yang diperoleh pada penelitian ini adalah ukuran perusahaan, jenis sektor usaha, dan ukuran dewan direksi berpengaruh secara positif terhadap pengungkapan tanggungjawab sosial perusahaan, sedangkan keterlibatan anggota dewan perempuan dan green accounting tidak memiliki pengaruh. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat menambah wawasan dan menambah referensi bagi peneliti selanjutnya maupun bagi investor untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi pengungkapan tanggungjawab sosial perusahaan dan dapat membantu dalam pengambilan keputusan.

Kata kunci: Pengungkapan Tanggungjawab Sosial Perusahaan, BUMN, Jenis Sektor Usaha, Dewan Direksi
Pengaruh Financial Knowledge, Financial Anxiety dan Financial Self-Efficacy Terhadap Pengelolaan Keuangan Mahasiswa
Authors: Sari Yomi Fatma , Chandra Novrina , Sukartini Sukartini
Published: November 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of financial knowledge, financial anxiety and financial self-efficacy on college student financial management. This research is a research quantitative approach. The data collection method used primary data by distributing online questionnaires. The population in this study were college students of the city of Padang. The sample of 400 respondents. Analysis of the data using SPSS v.28 software. The results showed that financial knowledge and self-efficacy variables affected student financial management. Meanwhile, the financial anxiety variable does not affect student financial management.

Keywords: Financial Knowledge, Financial Anxiety, Financial Self-Efficacy and Financial Management.

Abstrak

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh financial knowledge, financial anxiety dan financial self-efficacy terhadap pengelolaan keuangan mahasiswa. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah data primer yaitu dengan menyebarkan kuesioner secara online. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa Kota Padang. Jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah sebanyak 400 responden. Analisis data menggunakan Software SPSS v.28. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa variabel financial knowledge dan financial self-efficacy berpengaruh terhadap pengelolaan keuangan mahasiswa. Sedangkan, variabel financial anxiety tidak berpengaruh terhadap pengelolaan keuangan mahasiswa.

Kata kunci: Financial Knowledge, Financial Anxiety, Financial Self-Efficacy dan Pengelolaan Keuangan
Analisis Kualitas Pelayanan Housekeeping Terhadap Tingkat Kepuasan Tamu di Hotel Shofa Marwah Palembang
Authors: Nathasya Nurvia , Taskia Syu’ai Batul , Ranius Ahmad Yani
Published: November 2023

The tourism industry in Indonesia, which has great potential and continues to grow, is expected to be able to support the national economy of Indonesia. Accommodation facilities that support the tourism industry are hotels. One of the most important hotel services is the housekeeping department. The phenomenon found in one of the hotels, namely the Shofa Marwah hotel in Palembang, shows that the quality of the housekeeping department services provided is still not optimal. . Based on the findings in previous research, service quality affects customer satisfaction. This study aims to examine the effect of service quality on customer satisfaction. This study uses the theory of service quality and customer satisfaction from some previous literature. The data collection technique uses a questionnaire that consists of 15 items. . Measurement of variables based on the five dimensions of service quality, namely tangible, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. The data was analyzed by validity test, reliability and hypothesis test. The hypothesis test results show the influence of service quality on customer satisfaction in Hotel Shofa Marwah Palembang.

Keywords: Service Quality, Customer Satisfaction

Abstrak

Industri pariwisata di Indonesia yang memiki potensi besar dan terus berkembang diharapkan mampu untuk mendukung perekonomian Negara. Sarana akomodasi yang mendukung industri pariwisata adalah Hotel. Salah satu pelayanan hotel yang penting adalah housekeeping departemen. Fenomena yang terdapat di salah satu hotel yaitu hotel Shofa Marwah di Palembang menunjukan kualitas pelayanan housekeeping departemen yang diberikan masih kurang optimal. Berdasarkan temuan pada penelitian terdahulu, kualitas pelayanan berpengaruh terhadap kepuasan tamu. Penelitian ini bertujuan menguji pengaruh kualitas pelayanan terhadap kepuasan tamu. Dalam kajian ini peneliti menggunakan teori kualitas pelayanan dan kepuasan tamu. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner yang berjumlah 15 butir pernyataan. Pengukuran variabel berdasarkan kelima dimensi kualitas pelayanan yaitu tangible, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, dan empathy. Analisis data dilakukan dengan uji validitas, uji reliabilitas, dan uji hipotesis. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh kualitas pelayanan terhadap kepuasan tamu di hotel shofa marwah Palembang.

Kata kunci : Kualitas Pelayanan, Kepuasan Tamu
Hydrogen Embrittlement Characteristics of Tempered Martensitic Steels under Electrochemical and High-Pressure Hydrogen Environments
Authors: Kim Sang-Gyu , Kim Jae-Yun , Seo Hyun-Joo , Jung Hwan-Gyo , Park Jaeyoung , Baek Un-Bong , Hwang Byoungchul
Published: November 2023

The effect of hydrogen charging methods on the hydrogen embrittlement characteristics of tempered martensitic steels were discussed in terms of hydrogen diffusion behavior. Two tempered martensitic steels with different Si content were fabricated by quenching and tempering. The steel with high Si content had a lower cementite fraction because the addition of Si changed the morphology of cementite from a long film-like shape to a short-rod shape by suppressing the precipitation and growth of the cementite. To evaluate the hydrogen embrittlement resistance of the two tempered martensitic steels with different Si content, slow strain-rate tensile testing was employed after introducing hydrogen using three types of hydrogen charging methods (ex-situ electrochemical hydrogen charging, in-situ electrochemical hydrogen charging, and in-situ high-pressure gaseous hydrogen environment). For the hydrogen pre-charged tensile specimens using the ex-situ electrochemical charging method, the steel with high Si content had a better hydrogen embrittlement resistance, with a higher relative reduction in area. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in the relative notch tensile strength of the two tempered martensitic steels with different Si content, regardless of the hydrogen charging methods. In addition, the ex-situ hydrogen charging method exhibited higher relative notch tensile strength compared to the in-situ hydrogen charging method due to the release of hydrogen during the tensile test, after exsitu hydrogen charging. This implies that hydrogen embrittlement resistance can be differently estimated depending on the kind of hydrogen charging methods.
Changes in Microstructure, Mechanical and Electrical Properties with Progress of Cold Wire-Drawing for AA1070
Authors: Jo Sang-Hyeon , Lee Seong-Hee
Published: November 2023

Commercial AA1070 alloy for electrical wire is severely deformed by the drawing process when a rod with a diameter of 2 mm is greatly reduced to 0.4 mm by multi-pass. Changes in the microstructure, mechanical properties, and electrical properties of the Al alloy during the wire-drawing process were investigated in detail. The as-drawn Al wires showed a deformation structure in which the grains are greatly elongated in the drawing direction, even though recovery and/or partial recrystallization occurred more actively in the specimens which had more than 84% in reduction of cross-sectional area (RA). In addition, the fraction of high angle grain boundaries tended to increase with the increase of RA. For all drawn specimens, the fiber texture of the {110}<111> and {112}<111> components was mainly developed, and their maximum intensity tended to increase with increasing RA. Recrystallization texture of (001)[100] and (110)[001] began to appear at an RA higher than 84%. The hardness tended to increase with increasing RA due to work hardening. In particular, increasing RA to 84% resulted in a great rise in hardness, accompanied by a distinct non-uniformity in hardness in the thickness direction. However, the average hardness hardly changed at RA above 84%, even when RA was increased to 96%. The strength also tended to increase stepwise as RA increased, very similar to the change in hardness. The specimen with an RA of 93% showed the highest tensile strength of 192 MPa, 2.8 times higher than that of the specimen before drawing. The electric conductivity did not decrease significantly, even with extreme increases in RA, and remained at an average value of 61.6 %IACS.
Why Aristotle Can’t Do without Intelligible Matter
Authors: Katz Emily
Published: November 2023

I argue that intelligible matter, for Aristotle, is what makes mathematical objects quantities and divisible in their characteristic way. On this view, the intelligible matter of a magnitude is a sensible object just insofar as it has dimensional continuity, while that of a number is a plurality just insofar as it consists of indivisibles that measure it. This interpretation takes seriously Aristotle's claim that intelligible matter is the matter of mathematicals generally – not just of geometricals. I also show that intelligible matter has the same meaning in all three places where it is explicitly invoked: Z.10, Z.11, and H.6. Since the H.6 passage involves a mathematical definition, this requires determining what the mathematician defines and how she defines it. I show that, as with natural scientific definitions, there must be a matterlike element in mathematical definitions. This element is not identical with, but rather refers to, intelligible matter.
Diagrams forMethod12 in the Archimedes Palimpsest
Authors: Chen Xiaoxiao
Published: November 2023

This paper discusses four diagrams in the Archimedes Palimpsest, a manuscript that provides among other texts the only extant witness to Archimedes’ Method. My study of the two diagrams for Method 12 aims to open up discussions about the following two questions. First, I want to question the assumed relationship between diagram and geometric configuration. Rather than a representation-represented relation, I argue that the two diagrams for Method 12 have a stronger independence from the geometric configuration they are related to. Their connection with the theorem rather lies in their role in shaping the way in which the proof is written. Secondly, I want to examine the connection between geometric intuition and figure. Geometric intuition is the recognition of certain properties or relations in a geometric configuration not through deduction and is held to be parallel to, if not dependent on, the empirical observation of a physical figure. Method 12 provides a curious case where an intuitive fact is not only unrepresented, but even hindered by the diagrams, and the proof assumes that the reader has come to realise that fact, which is most easily achieved when the diagrams are ignored.
Power Line Carrier (PLC) sebagai Media Pendeteksi Phasa Pelanggan Tegangan Rendah
Authors: Anang Dasa Novfowan  , Mochammad Mieftah  , Wijaya Kusuma  , Slamet Nurhadi
Published: November 2023

With so many distribution substations and the number of household customers, most of whom are single-phase low voltage customers, customer phase verification becomes very important in the load balancing proces. The customer phase detection system that has been studied previously, using radio frequency communication media over the air, is considered less valid if used in border areas between 2 (two) distribution substations. It is felt that the low voltage customer phase detection method will be more valid if it is carried out via Power Line Carrier (PLC) media, namely data communication via electrical lines. And this system consists of two devices, namely a transmitter (called the Master) which is installed on the LV Panel and a receiver (called the Slave) which is carried by the mobile to the detected phase point Short distance phase detection using Power Line Carrie from transmitter to receiver has a 100% success rate in one sub-panel with a transfer speed of 9600 baudrate, with an average detection time for short distances of 5 seconds. For long distance detection, sometimes the detection time is relatively long (± 120 seconds) or even failed, possibly due to the quality of the connection along the conductor being detected, thus causing noise in the network.
Balancing Load Outgoing Transformator 2 di Politeknik Negeri Malang
Authors: Ika Noer Syamsiana  , Budi Eko Prasetyo  , Harry Hassidiqi  , Salsha Faradilla Firdaus
Published: November 2023

In an electric power system, power quality is a major problem. One of the problems is load imbalance. According to IEEE (Institute of electrical and electronic engineer) number 446-1995 for load unbalance the limit value ranges from 5% to 20% on all phases. The monitoring panel system is useful for facilitating monitoring of power quality in real time so that the efficiency of electrical energy can be maintained. The object of this research is the load on Outgoing Transformer 2 at State Polytechnic of Malang. Measurements were carried out for 7 days. On Friday the average unbalanced load value is 6.75% with a neutral current of 34.4 A and conductor losses of 0.071 kW, while for 6 days it is classified as a balanced load with an average of 3.54-4.76% with neutral current of 10.5-24.6 A and conductor losses of 0.007-0.036 kW. So according to the IEEE standard std 446-1995 the Unbalance load value does not meet the standard on Friday, which exceeds the minimum standard of 5%. To get balanced loading results, it is necessary to carry out load balancing actions, namely by means of balancing. The recommendation for balancing is to move from phase R to phase S of 4.043 A and phase T of 2.695 A. After balancing, the % unbalanced load is obtained with an average of 3%, meaning that this load is classified as balanced with a neutral current of 13.44 A and losses conductor 0.014 kW.
Monitoring Sun Tracking Solar Panel Statis Secara Real-Time Berbasis Website
Authors: Hanifiyah Darna Fidya Amaral  , Santoso Asfari Hariz , Harijanto Priya Surya , Wibisono Krisna Adi
Published: November 2023

The ability of solar panels to absorb energy depends on environmental conditions. Therefore, the power generated will fluctuate. Web-Based Real-Time Solar Panel Monitoring Design Research can facilitate monitoring the condition of solar panels so as to speed up action when there is a problem with solar panels with the monitoring system sent to users. The component used is NodeMCU ESP32 as a connecting device between solar panels and the internet. The measurement data of the current and voltage sensors installed on the solar panels is sent through an internet connection to the web server. The web server will receive the data and display real-time solar panel current and voltage information through a web interface that can be accessed by users. The test was carried out by taking current and voltage data on static solar panels and solar trackers for 11 hours at 07.00 – 17.00 WIB. Based on the measurement results, a total power of 16.04 Wh without a solar tracker (static) and 17.43 Wh with a solar tracker was obtained. The percentage of increase in current and power between static solar panels and solar trackers is 7.22% and 3.05%.
New marine low trophic resources as food: nutritional and food safety aspects
Authors: Elvevoll Edel Oddny , Eilertsen Karl-Erik , Aschan Michaela , Bandarra Narcisa Maria
Published: November 2023

Food agencies recommend increasing the consumption of aquatic food to promote healthy living and sustainability, and, particularly, to prevent Western lifestyle-related diseases and secure sustainable food systems. This requires growth in global seafood production, and the utilization of low trophic species (LTS) is suggested. LTS are already considered nutritious and important in Asian and Pacific diets. As the use of LTS is expanding in Western diets, producers and consumers need information on the food safety practices associated with them and their nutritional content. LTS are mainly immobile or slow-moving extractive species or organisms that feed on such, and their nutrient and contaminant content varies by species and location. Species-specific knowledge on nutritional contents and safe consumption limits is often missing, making the monitoring and analysis of contaminants, nutrients, and consumption data crucial to guiding the utilization and consumption of LTS. Using global and regional standards regarding nutrients, food hazards, and labeling, this review highlights the appropriate guidelines and regulations for guiding the utilization of selected novel species and also identifies knowledge gaps.
Insights on poster preparation practices in life sciences
Authors: Jambor Helena Klara
Published: November 2023

Posters are intended to spark scientific dialogue and are omnipresent at biological conferences. Guides and how-to articles help life scientists in preparing informative visualizations in poster format. However, posters shown at conferences are at present often overloaded with data and text and lack visual structure. Here, I surveyed life scientists themselves to understand how they are currently preparing posters and which parts they struggle with. Biologist spend on average two entire days preparing one poster, with half of the time devoted to visual design aspects. Most receive no design or software training and also receive little to no feedback when preparing their visualizations. In conclusion, training in visualization principles and tools for poster preparation would likely improve the quality of conference posters. This would also benefit other common visuals such as figures and slides, and improve the science communication of researchers overall.
Molecular epidemiology of sisal bole rot disease suggests a potential phytosanitary crisis in Brazilian production areas
Authors: Raya Fábio Trigo , Quintanilha-Peixoto Gabriel , de Oliveira Adriele Barbara , Marone Marina Püpke , dos Reis Wagner José Villela , Marques João Gabriel Oliveira , Almeida Rafael Leonardo , Falcão Filho Cezar Augusto Teixeira , Costa Oldair Del’Arco Vinhas , Ribeiro Rafael Vasconcelos , Soares Ana Cristina Fermino , Goés-Neto Aristóteles , Pereira Gonçalo Amarante Guimarães
Published: November 2023

Sisal bole rot disease is the major phytosanitary problem of Agave plantations in Brazil. The disease is caused by a cryptic species of Aspergillus: A. welwitschiae. To date, the only way to diagnose the disease was to observe external symptoms, visible only when the plant is already compromised, or through the isolation and sequencing of the pathogen, which requires cutting the entire plant for bole tissue sampling. We developed a new primer set based on a unique gene region of A. welwitschiae, which can detect the phytopathogenic strains through PCR directly from sisal leaves. Using the new marker to study the main sisal-producing areas in Brazil, we discovered a troublesome situation. The main producing areas of this crop had a pathogen incidence of 78%–88%. The dispersion index indicates a regular spatial pattern for disease distribution, suggesting that the use of contaminated suckers to establish new fields may be the main disease-spreading mechanism. Altogether, the high incidence of the pathogen, the unavailability of clean plants, the unpredictability of disease progression, and the low investment capacity of farmers reveal the vulnerability of this sector to a potential phytosanitary crisis. By correlating the disease symptomatology with soil nutritional traits, we suggest that higher potassium availability might decrease visual symptoms, while phosphorus may have the opposite effect. Also, we observe a potential cultivar effect, suggesting that common sisal may be more susceptible than hybrid cultivars (especially H400). This new molecular tool is a significant advance for understanding the disease, enabling the implementation of a monitoring program and studies that may lead to pathogen control strategies and changes in the Brazilian production model.
Promising derivatives of rutaecarpine with diverse pharmacological activities
Authors: Li Deping , Huang Ziqian , Xu Xiaojun , Li Yan
Published: November 2023

Rutaecarpine (RUT) is a natural pentacyclic indolopyridoquinazolinone alkaloid first isolated from one of the most famous traditional Chinese herbs, Evodia rutaecarpa, which is used for treating a variety of ailments, including headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, postpartum hemorrhage, amenorrhea, difficult menstruation, and other diseases. Accumulating pharmacological studies showed that RUT possesses a wide range of pharmacological effects through different mechanisms. However, its poor physicochemical properties and moderate biological activities have hampered its clinical application. In this regard, the modification of RUT aimed at seeking its derivatives with better physicochemical properties and more potency has been extensively studied. These derivatives exhibit diverse pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic, anti-Alzheimer’s disease, antitumor, and antifungal activities via a variety of mechanisms, such as inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), acetylcholine (AChE), phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B), phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5), or topoisomerases (Topos). From this perspective, this paper provides a comprehensive description of RUT derivatives by focusing on their diverse biological activities. This review aims to give an insight into the biological activities of RUT derivatives and encourage further exploration of RUT.
Blood-pool MRI assessment of myocardial microvascular reactivity
Authors: Loai Sadi , Qiang Beiping , Laflamme Michael A. , Cheng Hai-Ling Margaret
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The ability to non-invasively image myocardial microvascular dilation and constriction is essential to assessing intact function and dysfunction. Yet, conventional measurements based on blood oxygenation are not specific to changes in blood volume. The purpose of this study was to extend to the heart a blood-pool MRI approach for assessing vasomodulation in the presence of blood gas changes and investigate if sex-related differences exist.

Methods

Animals [five male and five female healthy Sprague Dawley rats (200–500 g)] were intubated, ventilated, and cycled through room air (normoxia) and hypercapnia (10% CO2) in 10-minute cycles after i.v. injection of blood-pool agent Ablavar (0.3 mmol/kg). Pre-contrast T1 maps and T1-weighted 3D CINE were acquired on a 3 Tesla preclinical MRI scanner, followed by repeated 3D CINE every 5 min until the end of the gas regime. Invasive laser Doppler flowmetry of myocardial perfusion was performed to corroborate MRI results.

Results

Myocardial microvascular dilation to hypercapnia and constriction to normoxia were readily visualized on T1 maps. Over 10 min of hypercapnia, female myocardial T1 reduced by 20% (vasodilation), while no significant change was observed in the male myocardium. After return to normoxia, myocardial T1 increased (vasoconstriction) in both sexes (18% in females and 16% in males). Laser Doppler perfusion measurements confirmed vasomodulatory responses observed on MRI.

Conclusion

Blood-pool MRI is sensitive and specific to vasomodulation in the myocardial microcirculation. Sex-related differences exist in the healthy myocardium in response to mild hypercapnic stimuli.
An approach to urban system spatial planning in Chengdu Chongqing economic circle using geospatial big data
Authors: Wang Haijun , Kong Xiangdong , Luo Ji , Li Pengju , Chen Xiyong , Xie Tianhui
Published: November 2023

Evidence suggests city grouping is an important way to implement urbanization in China. However, the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle (CCEC) is a typical dual-core structure, and the development level of each city is different. If we do not focus on the key directions for urban development, it will not be conducive to the new-type urbanization process. Therefore, we use spatial analysis techniques and geographic big data sets to construct an approach for urban system layout optimization from a global perspective. It mainly includes urban extended trend analysis based on night light, multi-modal traffic network analysis, and spatial economic density analysis using Open Street Map (OSM) and Point of Interest (POI) data. The research results show the following interesting findings. Firstly, the historical relationship of cities has a significant impact on city grouping, and efficient transportation connections and prosperous enterprise distribution are key conditions for urban grouping during the acceleration period of urbanization. Secondly, the development of urban grouping should break through administrative restrictions and achieve a moderate separation of administrative divisions and economic divisions. It is beneficial to the rapid growth of the city group and the improvement of the internal structure. Thirdly, the urban group of Southern Sichuan and Western Chongqing (SSWC) is the region with the most potential for growth in CCEC. The urban expansion index (UEI) of the Yibin-Luzhou area is 2.16, and the spatial economic density has increased by 130/km2 in the past decade. Providing flexible development authority and focus on the construction of the Yibin-Luzhou Urban Belt along the Yangtze River is an important way to integrate southern Sichuan. Moreover, we found the UEI has a good universality and it can be used for studying urban expansion trends and city relationships in rapidly developing regions, especially in metropolitan areas or urban agglomeration.
Study on mechanical and energy characteristics of coal samples under different unloading states
Authors: Meng Jianbing , Jiao Xianjun , Gao Song , Zhu Xiangbin , Cheng Shuangli , Zhou Wei
Published: November 2023

There are many types of coal seams in China, and the mining of protective layers will cause different rates of stress reduction in protected coal seams at different intervals. Therefore, experiments were conducted at different unloading rates to explore the strength, deformation, and energy characteristics of coal. Research findings: the AE (acoustic emission) signal of the coal body before unloading has a small range of changes and similar characteristics. After unloading begins, because of the different development rates of internal crack in the coal body under different unloading states, the AE signal of the coal body varies at different unloading rates. The maximum stress increases exponentially with the increase of unloading rate. It was found that the higher the unloading rate, the easier and earlier the coal sample is to be damaged. And it was discovered that the dissipated energy of the coal sample in the elastic stage is extremely low, and a large amount of total energy is converted into elastic energy and stored inside the coal sample. The dissipation energy increases during the plastic stage, while the trend of increasing elastic energy slows down. After the peak stage, the dissipated energy rapidly increases and the elastic energy decreases.
Leydig cell metabolic disorder act as a new mechanism affecting for focal spermatogenesis in Klinefelter syndrome patients: a real world cross-sectional study base on the age
Authors: Liu Huang , Zhang Zhenhui , Gao Yong , Lin Hai , Zhu Zhiyong , Zheng Houbin , Ye Wenjing , Luo Zefang , Qing Zhaohui , Xiao Xiaolan , Hu Lei , Zhou Yu , Zhang Xinzong
Published: November 2023

Background

Klinefelter’s syndrome (KS) was once considered infertile due to congenital chromosomal abnormalities, but the presence of focal spermatozoa changed this. The key to predict and promote spermatogenesis is to find targets that regulate focal spermatogenesis.

Objective

To explore the trend of fertility changes in KS patients at different ages and identify potential therapeutic targets.

Methods

Bibliometric analysis was used to collect clinical research data on KS from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) from 1992 to 2022. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 75 KS patients who underwent microscopic testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) from 2017 to 2022 in the real world. The reproductive hormones, testicular histopathology, androgen receptors, insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) receptors and sperm recovery rate (SRR) were analyzed.

Results

Male infertility, dysplasia, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, testosterone and spermatogenesis were the research focuses related to KS. Luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and INSL3 were evaluation indicators of Leydig cell function that fluctuate with age. Testosterone and LH peaked at ages 13-19 and 30-45, while INSL3 only peaked at ages 13-19. 27 patients (27/75) recovered sperm through mTESE and experienced SRR peaks at the ages of 20, 28, 34, and 37. The SRR of fibrosis patients was 46.15%, fatty degeneration was 7.14%, and melanosis was 40.00%. The INSL3 and androgen receptors were highly expressed and roughly balanced in focal spermatogenesis.

Conclusion

Abnormal metabolism of Leydig cells led to imbalanced expression of INSL3 and androgen receptors, which might be a potential target for spermatogenesis in KS.
Inspiring citizen science innovation for sustainable development goal 6 in water quality monitoring in China
Authors: Wu Yaqian , Washbourne Carla , Haklay Muki
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The global challenge of sustainable development is encapsulated in the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), to which China is committed. As outlined in the UNESCO World Water Assessment Program (WWAP) report, water fundamentally impacts on sustainable development, making the achievement of SDG 6 (water and sanitation) crucial. China, as a leading manufacturing hub with extensive agriculture, grapples with challenges in monitoring SDG 6 indicators, especially concerning water quality.

Methods: In light of these challenges, this study explores the utilisation of non-traditional data sources, specifically citizen science (CS), to address aspects of SDG 6 monitoring pertaining to water quality monitoring in China. Specifically, our study employs a combination of research techniques–including a literature review, semi-structured interviews, and participant observation–to critically evaluate 13 existing CS projects focused on water quality monitoring. A modified CS assessment framework has been utilised, offering a comprehensive, structured approach to evaluation.

Results: In total, this analysis identified four key findings: 1) CS projects related to water monitoring in China predominantly focus on freshwater and drinking water; 2) Greater attention and support are needed for freshwater monitoring initiatives to align with China’s “ecological civilisation” policy; 3) Replacing “citizen science” with “public participation” may promote broader acceptance of these initiatives; 4) Training requires enhancement, particularly for participants from third- and fourth-tier cities as well as remote rural areas.

Discussion: This research delineates feasible strategies for the future expansion and integration of CS projects throughout the country. It advocates for a more participatory data-driven approach to sustainable water management in China, given the highlighted challenges and the potential solutions unearthed through the use of citizen science and public participation.
Use of RT-PCR in conjunction with a respiratory pathogen assay to concurrently determine the prevalence of bacteria and SARS-CoV-2 from the nasopharynx of outpatients
Authors: Shurko James F. , Page Robert B. , Mares Chris A. , Nguyen Vivian , Lopez Kristina , Vanee Niti , Mishra Pramod K.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

COVID-19 has emerged as a highly contagious and debilitating disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and has claimed the lives of over 7.7 million people worldwide. Bacterial co-infections are one of many co-morbidities that have been suggested to impact the outcome of COVID-19 in patients. The goals of this study are to elucidate the presence of bacteria in the nasopharynx of SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative patients and to describe demographic categories that may be associated with the detection of these organisms during one of the initial waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

To this end, we investigated SARS-CoV-2 and bacterial co-detection from outpatient RT-PCR testing in Texas.

Results

The results indicate that Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Haemophilus influenzae were the most frequently detected bacteria in both SARS-CoV-2 positive and SARS-CoV-2 negative patients and that these bacteria were present in these two patient populations at similar proportions. We also detected Staphylococcus aureus in a significantly larger proportion of males relative to females and people under 65 years of age relative to those 65 and over. Finally, we observed that SARS-CoV-2 was more commonly detected in Hispanics compared to non-Hispanics; however, low disclosure rates make volunteer bias a concern when interpreting the effects of demographic variables.

Discussion

This study describes the bacteria present in the nasopharynx of SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative patients, highlights associations between patient demographics and SARS-CoV-2 as well as bacterial co-detection. In addition, this study highlights RT-PCR based molecular testing as a tool to detect bacteria simultaneously when SARS-CoV-2 tests are performed.
Effect of pilose antler polypeptide on the mechanism of bone homeostasis in osteoporosis
Authors: Wang Guochen , Meng Yubo , Ouyang Wensi , Zhao Changwei , Zhao Wenhai
Published: November 2023

Osteoporosis stands out as a prevalent metabolic disorder, bearing significant repercussions on human well-being and overall quality of life. It remains an urgent concern within the global public health framework due to its widespread occurrence. Osteoporosis arises from an abnormal metabolism in osteoblasts and osteoclasts, resulting in a disruption of the delicate equilibrium between bone formation and bone resorption. Within this context, deer antler peptides emerge as natural active compounds, wielding a pivotal role in governing the differentiation, proliferation, and mineralization of osteoblasts, as well as influencing the activity of osteoclasts. This article aims to consolidate our comprehension of the mechanisms underpinning the dynamic balance between bone formation and resorption, meticulously orchestrated by osteoblasts and osteoclasts in osteoporosis. Furthermore, it offers a comprehensive overview of how deer antler peptides, through their modulation of relevant signaling pathways, contribute to the enhancement of bone homeostasis. These insights deepen our understanding of the pathological processes through which deer antler peptides ameliorate bone homeostasis, while also presenting novel strategies for osteoporosis management.
Rapid on-site detection of harmful algal blooms: real-time cyanobacteria identification using Oxford Nanopore sequencing
Authors: Potvin Marianne , Gauthier Jeff , Langevin Christophe , Mohit Vani , da Costa Naíla Barbosa , Deschênes Thomas , Pomerleau Maude , Kukavica-Ibrulj Irena , Verreault Daniel , Comte Jérôme , Levesque Roger C.
Published: November 2023

With the increasing occurrence and severity of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cHAB) at the global scale, there is an urgent need for rapid, accurate, accessible, and cost-effective detection tools. Here, we detail the RosHAB workflow, an innovative, in-the-field applicable genomics approach for real-time, early detection of cHAB outbreaks. We present how the proposed workflow offers consistent taxonomic identification of water samples in comparison to traditional microscopic analyses in a few hours and discuss how the generated data can be used to deepen our understanding on cyanobacteria ecology and forecast HABs events. In parallel, processed water samples will be used to iteratively build the International cyanobacterial toxin database (ICYATOX; http://icyatox.ibis.ulaval.ca) containing the analysis of novel cyanobacterial genomes, including phenomics and genomics metadata. Ultimately, RosHAB will (1) improve the accuracy of on-site rapid diagnostics, (2) standardize genomic procedures in the field, (3) facilitate these genomics procedures for non-scientific personnel, and (4) identify prognostic markers for evidence-based decisions in HABs surveillance.
Molecular diagnostic assay for pre-harvest detection of Tilletia indica infection in wheat plants
Authors: Kashyap Prem Lal , Kumar Sudheer , Kumar Ravi Shekhar , Sharma Anju , Khanna Annie , Raj Shubham , Jasrotia Poonam , Singh Gyanendra
Published: November 2023

The current study describes a new diagnostic method for the rapid and accurate detection of Tilletia indica, the pathogen accountable for causing Karnal bunt (KB) disease in wheat. This method uses quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and a primer set derived from glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) gene of T. indica to identify the presence of the pathogen. The qPCR assay using this primer set was found highly sensitive, with a limit of detection (LOD) value of 4 pg of T. indica DNA. This level of sensitivity allows for the detection of the pathogen even in cases of different growth stages of wheat, where no visible symptoms of infection on the wheat plants can be seen by naked eyes. The study also validated the qPCR assay on ten different wheat cultivars. Overall, this study presents a valuable molecular tool for rapid, specific and sensitive detection of KB fungus in wheat host. This method has practical applications in disease management, screening of wheat genotypes against KB and can aid in the development of strategies to mitigate the impact of Karnal bunt disease on wheat production.
What networks in the brain system sustain imagination?
Authors: Fesce Riccardo , Gatti Roberto
Published: November 2023

The brain cannot stop elaborating information. While the circuitries implied in processing sensory information, and those involved in programming and producing movements, have been extensively studied and characterized, what circuits elicit and sustain the endogenous activity (which might be referred to as imaginative activity) has not been clarified to a similar extent. The two areas which have been investigated most intensely are visual and motor imagery. Visual imagery mostly involves the same areas as visual processing and has been studied by having the subject face specific visual imagery tasks that are related to the use of the visual sketchpad as a component of the working memory system. Much less is known about spontaneous, free visual imagination, what circuits drive it, how and why. Motor imagery has been studied with several approaches: the neural circuits activated in the brain during performance of a movement have been compared with those involved in visually or kinaesthetically imagining performing the same movement, or in observing another person performing it. Some networks are similarly activated in these situations, although primary motor neurons are only activated during motor execution. Imagining the execution of an action seems unable to activate circuits involved in eliciting accompanying motor adjustments (such as postural adaptations) that are unconsciously (implicitly) associated to the execution of the movement. A more faithful neuronal activation is obtained through kinaesthetic motor imagination—imagining how it feels to perform the movement. Activation of sensory-motor and mirror systems, elicited by observing another person performing a transitive action, can also recruit circuits that sustain implicit motor responses that normally accompany the overt movement. This last aspect has originated the expanding and promising field of action observation therapy (AOT). The fact that the various kinds of motor imagery differentially involve the various brain networks may offer some hints on what neural networks sustain imagery in general, another activity that has an attentive component—recalling a memory, covertly rehearsing a speech, internally replaying a behaviour—and a vague, implicit component that arises from the freely flowing surfacing of internal images, not driven by intentional, conscious control.