bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultura Tributaria y su Incidencia en el Cumplimiento del Impuesto a la Patente Municipal por Actividades Profesionales en el Cantón Manta, año 2021
Authors: Morales-Ávila Rosario , Cedeño-Pico María
Published: September 2023

La recaudación tributaria es un importante elemento para el desarrollo de un país, en donde los impuestos o tributos que son pagados por los ciudadanos, comerciantes, profesionales, entre otros entes económicos que desarrollan actividades que generan lucro, son una parte fundamental que proporcionara un recurso vital para invertir en servicios que beneficien a los ciudadanos, así como lograr el financiamiento de otras instituciones del estado que igualmente proporcionen algún servicio a los ciudadanos de una región. La cultura tributaria esta signada por un sistema de valores éticos que deben poseer los ciudadanos, en función de entender la necesidad de entregar a la nación su parte económica con la finalidad de aportar al desarrollo sostenible de su país, en el Ecuador la ley de tributación incluye un pago de impuesto a la patente municipal por actividades profesionales, el cual es de carácter obligatorio con la finalidad de que los profesionales que no dependan de una relación laboral puedan cancelar el impuesto respectivo por el desarrollo de sus actividades profesionales. El objetivo de esta investigación es establecer la incidencia de una cultura tributaria en la cancelación del impuesto a la patente municipal por actividades profesionales en el cantón Manta. La metodología es cuantitativa descriptiva, por medio de una encuesta aplicada a 80 profesionales se determina la relación que existe entre la cultura tributaria y el pago del mencionado impuesto. Se concluye que a pesar de que los contribuyentes conozcan sus obligaciones tributarias no indica que realicen sus pagos a tiempo.
Trophic partitioning among seasonally resident predators in a temperate estuary
Authors: Plumlee JD , Branham C , Ryburn SJ , Fodrie FJ
Published: September 2023

Many migratory coastal shark species enter temperate estuaries seasonally, tracking suitable environmental conditions (i.e. temperature) and food resources. Understanding the functional role that migratory sharks play in coastal food webs depends on information regarding the distinctness among predators’ trophic ecology. We examined the trophic ecology of 4 species of coastal sharks (Atlantic sharpnose, n = 22; bonnethead, n = 29; blacktip, n = 8; blacknose, n = 28) that migrate into temperate coastal ecosystems of the northwest Atlantic Ocean during the summer. We quantified their trophic relationships using bulk stable isotope ratios (δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S) measured in 2 tissue types representing long-term (red blood cells; 8-10 mo) and short-term (blood plasma; 10-13 wk) metabolic turnover. The primary carbon sources for the 4 shark species, determined via stable isotope mixing models, were consistently phytoplankton (mean ± SD: 65.8 ± 4.8%) and microphytobenthos (18.6 ± 5.4%), regardless of tissue type. However, interspecific isotopic niche overlap between any 2 species ranged widely (0-92%). The niche space occupied exclusively by one species also varied considerably but was lowest for blacktips (<20%) and highest for bonnetheads (>90%). Isotopic niche size estimated using short-term tissues, was substantially larger for 3 of the 4 species (Atlantic sharpnose, 41% increase; blacknose, 140%; blacktips, 159%) than long-term tissues. These data suggest species-specific trophic redundancy and increasing overlap in the summer months, indicated by larger isotopic niches during estuarine residency. As coastal habitats become increasingly altered, understanding the functional diversity of predators is vital for the prediction and assessment of resulting ecosystem-level change.
PERBANDINGAN KUALITAS PERMUKAAN PROSES FACING MATERIAL S45C BERDASARKAN VARIASI JUMLAH INSERT DAN FEEDING
Authors: Baihaqi Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Di era perkembangan industi manufaktur saat ini sudah seharusnya sebuah perusahaan manufaktur dapat memenuhi tuntutan produksi produk secara massal dalam waktu yang relatif singkat dengan tetap mempertimbangkan kualitas produk yang baik. Salah satu tolak ukur dari kualitas produk yang paling umum adalah kekasaran permukaan. Kekasaran permukaan dapat dipengaruhi oleh beberapa faktor seperti kondisi pemotongan benda kerja, parameter pemotongan, dan juga pemilihan alat potong, namun penelitian terkait pengaruh penggunaan jumlah sisi potong terhadap kekasaran permukaan masih terbatas terutama di Indonesia. Oleh karena itu untuk memperdalam studi terkait hal tersebut penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membandingkan kualitas permukaan melalui nilai kekasaran permukaan material baja S45C dalam proses facing menggunakan mesin CNC milling melalui beberapa variasi jumlah sisi potong facemill dan feeding atau feed per tooth (fz), sehingga faktor yang mempengaruhi kekasaran pada permukaan dapat dikaji lebih lanjut. Alat potong yang akan digunakan pada proses facing material S45C nantinya adalah cutter facemill dengan insert carbide, nilai Vc (cutting speed) yang digunakan adalah 100 m/min dan variasi nilai feeding (fz) yang dipakai diantaranya 0,15, 0,2, dan 0,25 mm, variasi jumlah insert adalah 6, 3, dan 1. Nilai kekasaran diperoleh dari pengukuran menggunakan alat ukur surface roughness tester Mitutoyo SJ-140. Hasil yang didapatkan adalah variasi nilai fz dan jumlah insert menunjukkan pengaruhnya terhadap nilai kekasaran (Ra) meskipun masih bersifat fluktuatif, dimana pada nilai fz 0,2 memiliki permukaan paling kasar dan pada nilai fz 0,15 paling halus, untuk jumlah insert 3 memiliki permukaan paling kasar dan pada insert 1 memiliki permukaan terhalus.
ANALISIS LAJU KOROSI DAN KEKERASAN BAJA AISI 1020 DALAM MEDIA ASAM SULFAT DENGAN VARIASI SUDUT BENDING DAN MATERIAL PELAPISAN
Authors: Priyahutama Alfian Afif , Rosidah Afira Ainur
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui pengaruh asam sulfat 10% terhadap laju korosi pada baja karbon rendah AISI 1020 yang banyak digunakan pada konstruksi transportasi. Dalam penelitian ini baja akan mendapat perlakuan tekukan/bending dan pelapisan, variasi sudut bending yang digunakan adalah 45˚, 90˚, 135˚ dengan variasi tanpa pelapisan, pelapisan alkyd dan epoxy. Lama waktu perendaman yaitu 168 jam. Ukuran spesimen yang disapkan memiliki dimensi 70 x 25 x 3 mm sebanyak 20 spesimen. Hasil penelitian menunjukan laju korosi pada baja AISI 1020 terbesarnya pada sudut 90˚ dengan variasi tanpa pelapisan yaitu 947,853 mpy. Untuk laju korosi terkecil berada pada sudut 135˚ dengan variasi pelapisan epoxy yaitu 136,124 mpy hal ini dikarenakan kadar keasaman pada larutan sangat tinggi dan belum terkontaminasi oleh lingkungan, perlakuan bending dan variasi pelapisan juga berpengaruh dalam laju korosi. Sedangkan untuk kekerasan tertinggi setelah perendaman yaitu pada material yang tanpa ada perlakuan bending dengan angka 92,86 g/µm² dan yang terkecil terdapat pada material sudut bending 45˚ dengan angka 79,78 g/µm². Pada penelitian ini sudut bending dan pelapisan material pada baja AISI 1020 sangat berpengaruh besar terhadap laju korosi.
STUDI EKSPERIMEN VARIASI JENIS SERAT DAN FRAKSI VOLUME KOMPOSIT BERMATRIKS UNSATURATED POLYMER RESIN (UPR) TERHADAP SIFAT MEKANIK DAN SIFAT FISIS MATERIAL
Authors: Indrayani Novi Laura , Rahmanto R. Hengki , Paridawati Paridawati , Maulana Hudan , Dayana Dio Nanda
Published: September 2023

Abstrak

Biokomposit merupakan jenis material yang berasal dari bahan dasar organik dan akan lebih mudah terurai saat menjadi limbah. Banyak produk saat ini bersumber dari komposit, dengan adanya biokomposit tentu saja akan mengurangi jumlah limbah. Pada penelitian ini akan dibuat material biokomposit dengan 2 variasi jenis serat bermatriks Unsaturated Polymer Resin (UPR) dan fraksi volume. Serat yang digunakan antara lain serat ijuk pohon aren dan serat pandan laut. Biokomposit dibuat menjadi empat jenis spesimen dengan perbedaan fraksi volume yakni 5%serat dengan 95%matriks; 10%serat dengan 90%matriks; 15%serat dengan 85%matriks; dan 20%serat dengan 80%matriks  dengan metode hand lay – up. Hasil pembuatan biokomposit dilakukan pengujian sifat fisis berupa pengujian densitas, daya serap air dan swelling dan pengujian mekanik dengan uji tarik dan uji impact. Nilai sifat fisis terlihat hampir sama untuk masing-masing serat. Sedangkan untuk sifat mekanik biokomposit serat ijuk menunjukkan kekuatan impact tertinggi dibandingkan serat lainnya, diperoleh pada fraksi volume serat KSI3 yaitu sebesar 30,860 kJ/m2. Pada nilai kuat tarik biokomposit serat ijuk juga dapat menerima tegangan sampai menghasilkan nilai deformasinya sebesar 25,73 MPa.

Kata Kunci: Biokomposit serat, fraksi volume, metode hand lay – up, unsaturated polyester resin, uji sifat mekanik, uji sifat fisis.

Abstract

Biocomposite is a type of material derived from organic base materials and will more easily decompose when it becomes waste. Many products are currently sourced from composites, with the presence of biocomposites of course it will reduce the amount of waste. In this research, biocomposite materials will be made with 2 variations of Unsaturated Polymer Resin (UPR) fiber matrix types and volume fractions. The fibers used include palm fiber fibers and sea pandan fibers. The biocomposite was made into four types of specimens with different volume fractions, namely 5% fiber and 95% matrix; 10% fiber with 90% matrix; 15% fiber with 85% matrix; and 20% fiber with 80% matrix by hand lay-up method. The results of the manufacture of biocomposites were tested for physical properties in the form of testing density, water absorption and thickness expansion and mechanical testing with tensile and impact tests. The value of physical properties looks almost the same for each fiber. As for the mechanical properties of the palm fiber biocomposite, it showed the highest impact strength compared to other fibers, obtained in the volume fraction of KSI3 fiber, which was 30.860 kJ/m2. On the tensile strength value of the palm fiber biocomposite can also accept stress to produce a deformation value of 25.73 MPa.

Keywords: Fiber biocomposite, volume fraction, hand lay-up method, unsaturated polyester resin, mechanical properties test, physical properties test.
REPRESENTATION OF SOCIAL CRITICISM IN AN EPISODE OF INDONESIAKU TITLED “WE ARE THE ISOLATED ONES AT THE END OF THE COUNTRY”
Authors: Dwi Aksa Yudha Asmara , Haris Abdul , Hariska Silfani
Published: September 2023

Social criticism is a way to express opinions and functions as a social control while criticizing a problem in society. In this regard, television show can be used to convey social criticism as it has a strong effect for influencing people's minds and change the audience's point of view. Indonesiaku is a documentary TV show that explores the problems in remote villages in Indonesia such as the lack of infrastructure development or the social welfare of Indonesian people. One of Indonesiaku’s episodes titled “WE ARE THE ISOLATED ONES AT THE END OF THE COUNTRY” represents underprivileged people in Baibunta Hamlet and Lelogama Village. The episode shows the lack of access to those areas which hamper the distribution of goods to those villages. This episode can be perceived one of social criticisms toward Indonesian government. Thus, the present study aims to analyze how the aforementioned episode shows social criticism using the semiotic theory from Pierce. The present study analyzes the selection of environmental settings, situations and narratives in the contexts of social criticism. The results of this study explain that the social criticism in Indonesiaku shows is a satirical one and displayed through visuals and narration. The results also suggest that the lack of infrastructure development in Baibunta Hamlet and Lelogama Village as the cause of poverty in those villages.
Editorial Vol. 11 N. 2 2023
Authors: Poletto Fabio Guilherme , Ribeiro Felipe de Almeida
Published: September 2023

Texto editorial para o número vol.11 n. 2, publicado em setembro de 2023.
Three Horizons for Future Geoscience
Authors: Stewart Iain , Capello Maria Angela , Mouri Hassina , Mhopjeni Kombada , Raji Munira
Published: September 2023

Geoscience, along with other scientific disciplines, is being increasingly challenged on how it can best confront key global challenges, such as climate change, food insecurity, biodiversity loss, human conflict and migration, and persistent poverty. But its traditional association with exploitation of the planet’s natural resources for energy and materials links it with contemporary concerns around unsustainable human practices, arguably fueling a growing disenchantment that is most evident in declining enrollment in university geoscience courses in many countries. Therefore, a fresh re-framing of the geoscience’s relationship to society would seem to be urgently needed. In response to this need, we introduce the “Three Horizons” concept for visualizing paradigm change in complex systems as a tool to explore how the future global geoscientific mission might be re-imagined. Using this conceptual framework, we consider three parallel pathways – “business as usual” (horizon 1), “entrepreneurial” (horizon 2) and “visionary” (horizon 3)—that offer alternative narrative trajectories for how geoscience and geoscientists might serve society’s grand challenges.
Effects of different habitual foot strike patterns on in vivo kinematics of the first metatarsophalangeal joint during shod running—a statistical parametric mapping study
Authors: Wu Kaicheng , Sun Xiaole , Ye Dongqiang , Zhang Faning , Zhang Shen , Fu Weijie
Published: September 2023

Existing studies on the biomechanical characteristics of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (1st MTPJ) during shod running are limited to sagittal plane assessment and rely on skin marker motion capture, which can be affected by shoes wrapping around the 1st MTPJ and may lead to inaccurate results. This study aims to investigate the in vivo effects of different habitual foot strike patterns (FSP) on the six degrees of freedom (6DOF) values of the 1st MTPJ under shod condition by utilizing a dual-fluoroscopic imaging system (DFIS). Long-distance male runners with habitual forefoot strike (FFS group, n = 15) and rearfoot strike (RFS group, n = 15) patterns were recruited. All participants underwent foot computed tomography (CT) scan to generate 3D models of their foot. The 6DOF kinematics of the 1st MTPJ were collected using a DFIS at 100 Hz when participants performed their habitual FSP under shod conditions. Independent t-tests and one-dimensional statistical parametric mapping (1-d SPM) were employed to analyze the differences between the FFS and RFS groups’ 1st MTPJ 6DOF kinematic values during the stance phase. FFS exhibited greater superior translation (3.5–4.9 mm, p = 0.07) during 51%–82% of the stance and higher extension angle (8.4°–10.1°, p = 0.031) during 65%–75% of the stance in the 1st MTPJ than RFS. Meanwhile, FFS exhibited greater maximum superior translation (+3.2 mm, p = 0.022), maximum valgus angle (+6.1°, p = 0.048) and varus–valgus range of motion (ROM) (+6.5°, p = 0.005) in the 1st MTPJ during stance. The greater extension angle of the 1st MTPJ in the late stance suggested that running with FFS may enhance the propulsive effect. However, the higher maximum valgus angle and the ROM of varus–valgus in FFS may potentially lead to the development of hallux valgus.
Identification and verification of a prognostic signature based on a miRNA–mRNA interaction pattern in colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhao Qiwu , Li Haosheng , Li Wenchang , Guo Zichao , Jia Wenqing , Xu Shuiyu , Chen Sixia , Shen Xiaonan , Wang Changgang
Published: September 2023

The expression characteristics of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) are involved in regulating various biological processes. To achieve these functions, ncRNA and a member of the Argonaute protein family form an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). The RISC is directed by ncRNA, especially microRNA (miRNA), to bind the target complementary mRNAs and regulate their expression by interfering with mRNA cleavage, degradation, or translation. However, how to identify potential miRNA biomarkers and therapeutic targets remains unclear. Here, we performed differential gene screening based on The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset and annotated meaningful differential genes to enrich related biological processes and regulatory cancer pathways. According to the overlap between the screened differential mRNAs and differential miRNAs, a prognosis model based on a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator-based Cox proportional hazards regression analysis can be established to obtain better prognosis characteristics. To further explore the therapeutic potential of miRNA as a target of mRNA intervention, we conducted an immunohistochemical analysis and evaluated the expression level in the tissue microarray of 100 colorectal cancer patients. The results demonstrated that the expression level of POU4F1, DNASE1L2, and WDR72 in the signature was significantly upregulated in COAD and correlated with poor prognosis. Establishing a prognostic signature based on miRNA target genes will help elucidate the molecular pathogenesis of COAD and provide novel potential targets for RNA therapy.
Role of ferroptosis and immune infiltration in intervertebral disc degeneration: novel insights from bioinformatics analyses
Authors: Liu Xiao-Wei , Xu Hao-Wei , Yi Yu-Yang , Zhang Shu-Bao , Wang Shan-Jin
Published: September 2023

Background: Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), which contributes to stenosis of the spinal segment, commonly causes lower back pain. The process of IVDD degradation entails gradual structural adjustments accompanied by extreme transformations in metabolic homeostasis. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with IVDD are poorly understood.

Methods: The RNA-sequencing datasets GSE34095 and GSE56081 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Ferroptosis-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from these gene sets. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was established and visualized using the STRING database and Cytoscape software, and the key functional modules of ferroptosis-related genes were identified. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed on the DEGs. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), immune infiltration analysis in the GEO database, and other GSE series were used as validation datasets. The xCELL algorithm was performed to investigate the immune cell infiltration differences between the degenerated IVDD and control groups.

Results: The major genes involved in nucleus pulposus tissue immune infiltration and ferroptosis-related genes were mined by bioinformatics analysis. A total of 3,056 DEGs were obtained between the IVDD tissue and control groups. The DEGs were enriched in the cell cycle; apoptosis; necroptosis; and the PI3K-Akt, Hippo, and HIF-1 signaling pathways. PCR and Western blot techniques were utilized to confirm the differential ferroptosis-related genes. The results indicated that the protein expression levels of NCOA4 and PCBP1 were elevated, while the protein expression level of GPX4 was reduced in NPCs following IL-1β treatment. Our study has found that severe disc tissue degeneration leads to a noteworthy increase in the expression of CD8A in naive T cells, CCR7 in memory CD4+ cells, GZMB in natural killer (NK) cells, and CD163 and CD45 in macrophages.

Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that ferroptosis occurs in IVDD, suggesting that ferroptosis may also increase IVDD improvement by triggering immune infiltration. This work was conducted to further understand IVDD pathogenesis and identify new treatment strategies.
Bioinformatics-based analysis reveals elevated CYTL1 as a potential therapeutic target for BRAF-mutated melanoma
Authors: Tao Lei , Cui Yingyue , Sun Jiarui , Cao Yu , Dai Zhen , Ge Xiaoming , Zhang Ling , Ma Run , Liu Yunyao
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Despite many recent emerging therapeutic modalities that have prolonged the survival of melanoma patients, the prognosis of melanoma remains discouraging, and further understanding of the mechanisms underlying melanoma progression is needed. Melanoma patients often have multiple genetic mutations, with BRAF mutations being the most common. In this study, public databases were exploited to explore a potential therapeutic target for BRAF-mutated melanoma.

Methods: In this study, we analyzed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in normal tissues and melanomas, Braf wild-type and Braf mutant melanomas using information from TCGA databases and the GEO database. Subsequently, we analyzed the differential expression of CYTL1 in various tumor tissues and its effect on melanoma prognosis, and resolved the mutation status of CYTL1 and its related signalling pathways. By knocking down CYTL1 in melanoma cells, the effects of CYTL1 on melanoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion were further examined by CCK8 assay, Transwell assay and cell migration assay.

Results: 24 overlapping genes were identified by analyzing DEGs common to melanoma and normal tissue, BRAF-mutated and BRAF wild-type melanoma. Among them, CYTL1 was highly expressed in melanoma, especially in BRAF-mutated melanoma, and the high expression of CYTL1 was associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell cycle, and cellular response to UV. In melanoma patients, especially BRAF-mutated melanoma patients, clinical studies showed a positive correlation between increased CYTL1 expression and shorter overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). In vitro experiments further confirmed that the knockdown of CYTL1 significantly inhibited the migration and invasive ability of melanoma cells.

Conclusion: CYTL1 is a valuable prognostic biomarker and a potentially effective therapeutic target in melanoma, especially BRAF-mutated melanoma.
Lower gut abundance of Eubacterium rectale is linked to COVID-19 mortality
Authors: Liu Yingzhi , Chan Matthew T. V. , Chan Francis K. L. , Wu William K. K. , Ng Siew C. , Zhang Lin
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Emerging preclinical and clinical studies suggest that altered gut microbiome composition and functions are associated with coronavirus 2019 (COVID- 19) severity and its long-term complications. We hypothesize that COVID-19 outcome is associated with gut microbiome status in population-based settings.

Methods

Gut metagenomic data of the adult population consisting of 2871 subjects from 16 countries were obtained from ExperimentHub through R, while the dynamic death data of COVID-19 patients between January 22, 2020 and December 8, 2020 in each country was acquired from Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center. An adjusted stable mortality rate (SMR) was used to represent these countries’ mortality and correlated with the mean relative abundance (mRA) of healthy adult gut microbiome species.

Results

After excluding bacterial species with low prevalence (prevalence <0.2 in the included countries), the β-diversity was significantly higher in the countries with high SMR when compared with those with median or low SMR (p <0.001). We then identified the mRA of two butyrate producers, Eubacterium rectale and Roseburia intestinalis, that were negatively correlated with SMR during the study period. And the reduction of these species was associated with severer COVID-19 manifestation.

Conclusion

Population-based microbiome signatures with the stable mortality rate of COVID-19 in different countries suggest that altered gut microbiome composition and functions are associated with mortality of COVID-19.
Case report: State-of-the-art risk-modifying treatment of sudden cardiac death in an asymptomatic patient with a mutation in the SCN5A gene and a review of the literature
Authors: Brlek Petar , Pavelić Eduard Stjepan , Mešić Jana , Vrdoljak Kristijan , Skelin Andrea , Manola Šime , Pavlović Nikola , Ćatić Jasmina , Matijević Gordana , Brugada Josep , Primorac Dragan
Published: September 2023

Brugada syndrome is a rare hereditary disorder characterized by distinct ECG findings, complex genetics, and a high risk of sudden cardiac death. Recognition of the syndrome is crucial as it represents a paradigm of sudden death tragedy in individuals at the peak of their lives. Notably, Brugada syndrome accounts for more than 20% of sudden cardiac deaths in individuals with structurally normal hearts. Although this syndrome follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, it is more prevalent and severe in males. Diagnosis is primarily based on the characteristic ECG pattern observed in the right precordial leads. Mutations in the SCN5A gene, resulting in loss of function, are the most common genetic cause. We presented a 36-year-old proband with a family history of sudden cardiac death. Although the patient was asymptomatic for Brugada syndrome, his father had experienced sudden death at the age of 36. The proband was admitted to St. Catherine's Specialty Hospital where blood was taken and subjected to next-generation sequencing (NGS) using a “Sudden cardiac death” panel. The analysis identified a pathogenic variant in the SCN5A gene [c.4222G > A(p.Gly1408Arg)], which is associated with autosomal dominant Brugada syndrome. Based on the positive genetic test result, the patient was referred for further examination. ECG with modified precordial lead positioning confirmed the presence of the Brugada phenotype, displaying the type-2 and type-1 ECG patterns. Therefore, we made the diagnosis and decided to implant an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) based on the results of broad genetic NGS testing, diagnostic criteria (ECG), and considering the high burden of sudden cardiac death in the patient's family, as well as his concerns that limited his everyday activities. This case shows that genetics and personalized medicine hold immense potential in the primary prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Brugada syndrome and sudden cardiac death.
Surgical treatment of left-sided infective endocarditis with symptomatic neurological complications before surgery in China
Authors: Huang Jing-bin , Lu Chang-chao , Wen Zhao-ke , Yang Jian-rong , Li Jun-jun
Published: September 2023

Introduction

We aimed to investigate surgical treatment of left-sided infective endocarditis with symptomatic neurological complications before surgery.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients with left-sided infective endocarditis and symptomatic neurological complications before surgery undergoing cardiac surgery between January 2006 and November 2022 at our hospital.

Results

Eight hundred thirty-two patients were divided into group with symptomatic neurological complications before surgery (n = 112) and without symptomatic neurological complications before surgery (n = 720). There were 48 operative deaths (5.4%). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that symptomatic neurological complications before surgery is statistically significantly associated with in-hospital mortality following cardiac surgery and prolonged intubation time.

Conclusions

Our study showed that symptomatic neurological complications before surgery are associated with increased in-hospital mortality following cardiac surgery and prolonged intubation time.
Development of SkinTracker, an integrated dermatology mobile app and web portal enabling remote clinical research studies
Authors: Jin Joy Q. , Hong Julie , Elhage Kareem G. , Braun Mitchell , Spencer Riley K. , Chung Mimi , Yeroushalmi Samuel , Hadeler Edward , Mosca Megan , Bartholomew Erin , Hakimi Marwa , Davis Mitchell S. , Thibodeaux Quinn , Wu David , Kahlon Abhilash , Dhaliwal Paul , Mathes Erin F. , Dhaliwal Navdeep , Bhutani Tina , Liao Wilson
Published: September 2023

Introduction

In-person dermatology clinical research studies often face recruitment and participation challenges due to travel-, time-, and cost-associated barriers. Studies incorporating virtual/asynchronous formats can potentially enhance research subject participation and satisfaction, but few mobile health tools are available to enable remote study conduct. We developed SkinTracker, a patient-facing mobile app and researcher-facing web platform, that enables longitudinal collection of skin photos, patient reported outcomes, and biometric health and environmental data.

Methods

Eight design thinking sessions including dermatologists, clinical research staff, software engineers, and graphic designers were held to create the components of SkinTracker. Following iterative prototyping, SkinTracker was piloted across six adult and four pediatric subjects with atopic dermatitis (AD) of varying severity levels to test and provide feedback on SkinTracker for six months.

Results

The SkinTracker app enables collection of informed consent for study participation, baseline medical history, standardized skin photographs, patient-reported outcomes (e.g., Patient Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)), medication use, adverse events, voice diary to document qualitative experiences, chat function for communication with research team, environmental and biometric data such as exercise and sleep metrics through integration with an Apple Watch. The researcher web portal allows for management and visualization of subject enrollment, skin photographs for examination and severity scoring, survey completion, and other patient modules. The pilot study requested that subjects complete surveys and photographs on a weekly to monthly basis via the SkinTracker app. Afterwards, participants rated their experience in a 7-item user experience survey covering app function, design, and desire for participation in future studies using SkinTracker. Almost all subjects agreed or strongly agreed that SkinTracker enabled more convenient participation in skin research studies compared to an in-person format.

Discussion

To our knowledge, SkinTracker is one of the first integrated app- and web-based platforms allowing collection and management of data commonly obtained in clinical research studies. SkinTracker enables detailed, frequent capture of data that may better reflect the fluctuating course of conditions such as AD, and can be modularly customized for different skin conditions to improve dermatologic research participation and patient access.
Geostatistical based optimization of groundwater monitoring well network design
Authors: Gladish Daniel W. , Pagendam Daniel E. , Janardhanan Sreekanth , Gonzalez Dennis
Published: September 2023

Monitoring groundwater quality in economically important and other aquifers is carried out regularly as part of regulatory processes for water and other resource development. Many water quality parameters are measured as part of baseline monitoring around mining and onshore gas resource development regions to develop improved understanding of the hydrogeological system as well as to inform managerial decisions to assess and manage contamination risks and health hazards. Water quality distribution in an aquifer is most often inferred from point measurements from limited number of bores drilled at arbitrary locations. Estimating the distribution of water quality parameters in the aquifer based on these point measurements is often a challenging task and results in high uncertainty in the estimates due to limited data availability. Minimizing uncertainty can be achieved by drilling more bores to collect water quality data and several approaches are available to identify optimal bore hole locations to minimize estimation uncertainty. However, optimization of borehole locations is difficult when multiple water quality parameters are of interest and have different spatial distributions in the aquifer. In this study we use geostatistical kriging to interpolate a large number of groundwater quality parameters. Then we integrate these predicted values and use the Differential Evolution algorithm to determine optimal locations for bores that would simultaneously reduce spatial prediction uncertainty of all parameters. The method is applied for designing a groundwater monitoring network in the Namoi region of Australia for monitoring groundwater quality in an economically important aquifer of the Great Artesian Basin. Optimal locations for 10 new monitoring bores are identified using this approach.
Source-independent elastic envelope inversion using the convolution method
Authors: Li Fang , Li Xiaozhang , Ren Ting , Ma Guangke , He Bingshou , Wang Jichuan
Published: September 2023

Elastic full waveform inversion (EFWI) is a powerful technique. However, its strong non-linearity makes it susceptible to converging towards local extremes during the iterative process due to various factors like insufficient low-frequency information or an inadequate initial model. The existing elastic envelope inversion can offer a promising initial model for EFWI when low-frequency information is unavailable, reducing the dependence on both the initial model and low-frequency data. However, its accuracy is affected by the quality of the source wavelet, potentially causing the EFWI to run in the wrong direction if there is a discrepancy between the simulated wavelet and the field wavelet. To address these issues and enhance the reconstruction of large-scale information in the model, we propose a novel approach called source-independent elastic envelope inversion, employing the convolution method. By combining this method with source-independent multiscale EFWI, we effectively establish P- and S-wave velocity models even in situations with inaccurate wavelet information. The results of testing on a portion of the Marmousi2 model demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique for both full-band and low-frequency missing data scenarios.
Bridge to health informatics—a 5-week intensive online program to increase diversity in health informatics
Authors: Howard Angelita P. , Slaughter Liane Siu , Simmonds Consuela , McPherson Rebecca , Kennedy Nia , Bentley Keisha
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Health informatics (HI) has the potential to address health disparities and improve healthcare outcomes; however, lack of diversity in the workforce, especially at advanced levels, feeds disparities, and creates inequities. Increasing participation from underrepresented minorities requires exposure and connection to the field and career opportunities including advanced degrees. Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) created the no-cost, 5-week intensive online Bridge to Health Informatics (B2HI) program in 2021 to connect participants from backgrounds underrepresented in HI with industry-relevant skills, professional certification, business experience, and graduate training opportunities.

Methods

The curriculum included intensive training in knowledge and current trends, business propositions, and professional certifications. Successful completion of the B2HI provided scholars with guaranteed admissions into the Master of Science in Health Informatics (MSHI) degree program, which premiered at MSM in August 2021. We deployed several strategies to attract individuals interested in advancing their careers in HI. To assess the impact of the recruitment strategy and program, we analyzed applicant demographics, the interests of those accepted into the program, and feedback from participants via anonymous online surveys.

Results

In 2021, our recruitment efforts attracted 65 applications, over whom 90% self-identified as African American and the majority were working adults. Among the 46 applicants accepted and enrolled, 38 (83%) completed the program. Thirteen B2HI graduates enrolled in the first offerings (Fall 2021 and Spring 2022) of the online MSHI degree program, the highest number for the first sessions of our online master’s degree programs, indicating that B2HI connects scholars with advanced training. Participants indicated immense overall satisfaction with the program and had strong positive responses for increased interest and confidence to do advanced work in the subject.

Discussion

The data indicate that B2HI addresses key factors that hinder diversity in healthcare and informatics-related fields, including awareness, access, and social support, and connect students with the next stages of training toward careers that require an advanced degree. By providing opportunity, resources, and networks that help participants raise their potential to become leaders and decision-makers in the healthcare industry, programs like B2HI enable the collective effort to decrease health disparities.
Plasma cortisol-linked gene networks in hepatic and adipose tissues implicate corticosteroid-binding globulin in modulating tissue glucocorticoid action and cardiovascular risk
Authors: Bankier Sean , Wang Lingfei , Crawford Andrew , Morgan Ruth A. , Ruusalepp Arno , Andrew Ruth , Björkegren Johan L. M. , Walker Brian R. , Michoel Tom
Published: September 2023

Genome-wide association meta-analysis (GWAMA) by the Cortisol Network (CORNET) consortium identified genetic variants spanning the SERPINA6/SERPINA1 locus on chromosome 14 associated with morning plasma cortisol, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and SERPINA6 mRNA expression encoding corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) in the liver. These and other findings indicate that higher plasma cortisol levels are causally associated with CVD; however, the mechanisms by which variations in CBG lead to CVD are undetermined. Using genomic and transcriptomic data from The Stockholm Tartu Atherosclerosis Reverse Networks Engineering Task (STARNET) study, we identified plasma cortisol-linked single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are trans-associated with genes from seven different vascular and metabolic tissues, finding the highest representation of trans-genes in the liver, subcutaneous fat, and visceral abdominal fat, [false discovery rate (FDR) = 15%]. We identified a subset of cortisol-associated trans-genes that are putatively regulated by the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), the primary transcription factor activated by cortisol. Using causal inference, we identified GR-regulated trans-genes that are responsible for the regulation of tissue-specific gene networks. Cis-expression Quantitative Trait Loci (eQTLs) were used as genetic instruments for identification of pairwise causal relationships from which gene networks could be reconstructed. Gene networks were identified in the liver, subcutaneous fat, and visceral abdominal fat, including a high confidence gene network specific to subcutaneous adipose (FDR = 10%) under the regulation of the interferon regulatory transcription factor, IRF2. These data identify a plausible pathway through which variation in the liver CBG production perturbs cortisol-regulated gene networks in peripheral tissues and thereby promote CVD.
Spatiotemporal changes and driving factors of reference evapotranspiration and crop evapotranspiration for cotton production in China from 1960 to 2019
Authors: Su Yuexia , Wang Jian , Li Junhong , Wang Lizhi , Wang Kunfeng , Li Ao , Gao Lei , Wang Zhanbiao
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Understanding and tracking changes in crop water requirements is crucial for effective irrigation, water planning, and future decisions. Determining the reference evapotranspiration (ETO) and crop evapotranspiration (ETC) of China cotton is essential for water resource management.

Methods: This study analyzed the spatiotemporal changes in ETO and ETC at 248 standard stations in cotton production regions of China from 1960 to 2019, and the ETO and ETC of each station were quantified by using the CropWat 8.0 and non-parametric Mann-Kendall test. The impacts of climate change on ETO and ETC were evaluated by analyzing the contribution rate and sensitivity coefficient of climate change.

Discussion: The results revealed distinct distributions of ETO and ETC across various growth stages and spatial scales in the cotton production regions of China. In the Huanghe Valley, the rate of decline for ETO decreased from 787.23 mm to 769.84 mm, while in the Yangtze Valley cotton region, it decreased from 749.19 mm to 735.01 mm. Similarly, in the Northwest inland cotton regions, the rate of decline for ETO reduced from 991.19 mm to 982.70 mm. As for ETC, the rate of decline decreased from 677.62 mm to 654.33 mm in the Huanghe Valley, from 653.02 mm to 625.50 mm in the Yangtze Valley, and from 916.25 mm to 886.74 mm in the Northwest inland cotton regions. ETO was highly sensitive to maximum air temperature (Tmax), followed by relative humidity (RH), sunshine duration (SD), wind speed at 2 m height (WS), and minimum air temperature (Tmin). WS was the most influential climate variable associated with ETO change, followed by Tmax, SD, RH, and Tmin. Significant declines in WS and SD were indicated in the decrease in ETO in the Huanghe Valley and Yangtze Valley cotton regions. WS showed a significant decrease in ETO in the northwestern inland cotton region. However, decreased RH and increased temperature commonly reversed the trend of ETO from 2000 to 2019, and the northwestern inland cotton region had the most significant upward trend. Amidst high temperatures and drought stress, the irrigation needs of cotton were rising, posing a significant threat to both cotton production and water resources.
Comprehensive profiling of pre-infection antibodies identifies HIV targets associated with viremic control and viral load
Authors: Grant-McAuley Wendy , Morgenlander William , Hudelson Sarah E. , Thakar Manjusha , Piwowar-Manning Estelle , Clarke William , Breaud Autumn , Blankson Joel , Wilson Ethan , Ayles Helen , Bock Peter , Moore Ayana , Kosloff Barry , Shanaube Kwame , Meehan Sue-Ann , van Deventer Anneen , Fidler Sarah , Hayes Richard , Ruczinski Ingo , Kammers Kai , Laeyendecker Oliver , Larman H. Benjamin , Eshleman Susan H.
Published: September 2023

Background

High HIV viral load (VL) is associated with increased transmission risk and faster disease progression. HIV controllers achieve viral suppression without antiretroviral (ARV) treatment. We evaluated viremic control in a community-randomized trial with >48,000 participants.

Methods

A massively multiplexed antibody profiling system, VirScan, was used to quantify pre- and post-infection antibody reactivity to HIV peptides in 664 samples from 429 participants (13 controllers, 135 viremic non-controllers, 64 other non-controllers, 217 uninfected persons). Controllers had VLs <2,000 copies/mL with no ARV drugs detected at the first HIV-positive visit and one year later. Viremic non-controllers had VLs 2,000 copies/mL with no ARV drugs detected at the first HIV-positive visit. Other non-controllers had either ARV drugs detected at the first HIV-positive visit (n=47) or VLs <2,000 copies/mL with no ARV drugs detected at only one HIV-positive visit (n=17).

Results

We identified pre-infection HIV antibody reactivities that correlated with post-infection VL. Pre-infection reactivity to an epitope in the HR2 domain of gp41 was associated with controller status and lower VL. Pre-infection reactivity to an epitope in the C2 domain of gp120 was associated with non-controller status and higher VL. Different patterns of antibody reactivity were observed over time for these two epitopes.

Conclusion

These studies suggest that pre-infection HIV antibodies are associated with controller status and modulation of HIV VL. These findings may inform research on antibody-based interventions for HIV treatment.
Chimeric RNAs reveal putative neoantigen peptides for developing tumor vaccines for breast cancer
Authors: Mistretta Brandon , Rankothgedera Sakuni , Castillo Micah , Rao Mitchell , Holloway Kimberly , Bhardwaj Anjana , El Noafal Maha , Albarracin Constance , El-Zein Randa , Rezaei Hengameh , Su Xiaoping , Akbani Rehan , Shao Xiaoshan M. , Czerniecki Brian J. , Karchin Rachel , Bedrosian Isabelle , Gunaratne Preethi H.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

We present here a strategy to identify immunogenic neoantigen candidates from unique amino acid sequences at the junctions of fusion proteins which can serve as targets in the development of tumor vaccines for the treatment of breastcancer.

Method

We mined the sequence reads of breast tumor tissue that are usually discarded as discordant paired-end reads and discovered cancer specific fusion transcripts using tissue from cancer free controls as reference. Binding affinity predictions of novel peptide sequences crossing the fusion junction were analyzed by the MHC Class I binding predictor, MHCnuggets. CD8+ T cell responses against the 15 peptides were assessed through in vitro Enzyme Linked Immunospot (ELISpot).

Results

We uncovered 20 novel fusion transcripts from 75 breast tumors of 3 subtypes: TNBC, HER2+, and HR+. Of these, the NSFP1-LRRC37A2 fusion transcript was selected for further study. The 3833 bp chimeric RNA predicted by the consensus fusion junction sequence is consistent with a read-through transcription of the 5’-gene NSFP1-Pseudo gene NSFP1 (NSFtruncation at exon 12/13) followed by trans-splicing to connect withLRRC37A2 located immediately 3’ through exon 1/2. A total of 15 different 8-mer neoantigen peptides discovered from the NSFP1 and LRRC37A2 truncations were predicted to bind to a total of 35 unique MHC class I alleles with a binding affinity of IC50<500nM.); 1 of which elicited a robust immune response.

Conclusion

Our data provides a framework to identify immunogenic neoantigen candidates from fusion transcripts and suggests a potential vaccine strategy to target the immunogenic neopeptides in patients with tumors carrying the NSFP1-LRRC37A2 fusion.
Recent advances in mass spectrometry-based proteomics and metabolomics in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Guo Shudi , Tian Ming , Fan Yunping , Zhang Xiangyang
Published: September 2023

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a complex and heterogeneous disease, typically diagnosed through endoscopy and computed tomography and treated with glucocorticoid or surgery. There is an urgent need to develop molecular-level diagnostic or prognostic tools to better understand the pathophysiology of CRSwNP. Proteomics and metabolomics, emerging fields, offer significant potential in elucidating the mechanisms underlying CRSwNP. Mass spectrometry, a powerful and sensitive tool for trace substance detection, is broadly applied for proteomics and metabolomics analysis in CRSwNP research. While previous literature has summarized the advancement of mass spectrometry-based CRSwNP proteomics from 2004 to 2018, recent years have seen new advances in this field, particularly about non-invasive samples and exosomes. Furthermore, mass spectrometry-based CRSwNP metabolomics research has opened new avenues for inquiry. Therefore, we present a comprehensive review of mass spectrometry-based proteomics and metabolomics studies on CRSwNP conducted between 2019 and 2022. Specifically, we highlight protein and metabolic biomarkers that have been utilized as diagnostic or prognostic markers for CRSwNP. Lastly, we conclude with potential directions for future mass spectrometry-based omics studies of CRSwNP.
Depletion attraction in colloidal and bacterial systems
Authors: Zhang Hong , Kong Dongyang , Zhang Wenchao , Liu Huaqing
Published: September 2023

Depletion attraction is a common entropy force observed in colloidal systems. As a common phenomenon in colloidal and bacterial systems, studying the mechanism and application of depletion attraction is of great value for controlling the state of colloidal solutions, regulating the morphology of colloidal particles, disease treatment, and water pollution treatment. Based on the current research status, we briefly introduce the calculation and measurement methods of depletion attractions. And we review the application of depletion attractions in colloidal systems, and summarize the different phenomena and aggregation mechanisms caused by depletion attraction in active colloidal particle-bacterial systems. Understanding the specific role of depletion aggregation in colloidal and bacterial systems provides more possibilities for further exploring depletion aggregation mechanisms and utilizing depletion aggregation phenomena in nature.