bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Coupled Model of Multiscaled Creep Deformation and Gas Flow for Predicting Gas Depletion Characteristics of Shale Reservoir at the Field Scale
Authors: Yang Daosong , Cui Guanglei , Tan Yuling , Zhu Aiyu , Liu Chun , Li Yansen
Published: July 2024

The viscoelastic behavior of shale reservoirs indeed impacts permeability evolution and further gas flow characteristics, which have been experimentally and numerically investigated. However, its impact on the gas depletion profile at the field scale has seldom been addressed. To compensate for this deficiency, we propose a multiscaled viscoelasticity constitutive model, and furthermore, a full reservoir deformation–fluid flow coupled model is formed under the frame of the classical triple-porosity approach. In the proposed approach, a novel friction-based creep model comprising two distinct series of parameters is developed to generate the strain–time profiles for hydraulic fracture and natural fracture systems. Specifically, an equation considering the long-term deformation of hydraulic fracture, represented by the softness of Young’s modulus, is proposed to describe the conductivity evolution of hydraulic fractures. In addition, an effective strain permeability model is employed to replicate the permeability evolution of a natural fracture system considering viscoelasticity. The coupled model was implemented and solved within the framework of COMSOL Multiphysics (Version 5.4). The proposed model was first verified using a series of gas production data collected from the Barnett shale, resulting in good fitting results. Subsequently, a numerical analysis was conducted to investigate the impacts of the newly proposed parameters on the production process. The transient creep stage significantly affects the initial permeability, and its contribution to the permeability evolution remains invariable. Conversely, the second stage controls the long-term permeability evolution, with its dominant role increasing over time. Creep deformation lowers the gas flow rate, and hydraulic fracturing plays a predominant role in the early term, as the viscoelastic behavior of the natural fracture system substantially impacts the long-term gas flow rate. A higher in situ stress and greater formation depth result in significant creep deformation and, therefore, a lower gas flow rate. This work provides a new tool for estimating long-term gas flow rates at the field scale.
Leveraging Pumped Storage Power Plants for Innovative Stability Enhancement of Weakly Interconnected Power Systems
Authors: Sauhats Antans , Utāns Andrejs , Žalostība Diāna
Published: July 2024

The hybrid AC/DC grid, based on a significant share of renewable energy sources, is gradually becoming an essential aspect of the modern energy system. The integration of intermittent renewable generators into contemporary energy systems is accompanied by the decommissioning of power plants containing synchronous generators. Consequently, this leads to a reduction in system inertia and an increase in the risk of stability disruption. The abrupt disconnection of the primary generator or power line can result in an unanticipated mismatch between power generation and consumption. This discrepancy can trigger substantial and swiftly evolving alterations in power distribution, angular speed, load flow, and the frequency of generators. The risks of an energy system collapse can be mitigated through automation, enabling rapid adjustments to generation and load capacities, as well as power flows, in the electrical network. This article justifies the utilisation of a power control method for high-voltage power line interconnections. The technology of hydro storage power plants and measurements of voltage phasors are employed. The potential for easing power flow restrictions and realising substantial economic benefits is supported by the results obtained using simplified dynamic model of the Baltic power system and Nord Pool electricity market model.
Thermophysical Characterization of Materials for Energy-Efficient Double Diaphragm Preforming
Authors: Dandangi Srikara , Ravandi Mohammad , Naser Jamal , Di Pietro Adriano
Published: July 2024

The Double Diaphragm Preforming (DDPF) process uses vacuum pressure and heat to pre-shape dry carbon fabric reinforcements between flexible diaphragms in liquid composite molding (LCM). Accurate modeling of heat transfer within DDPF requires knowledge of the thermophysical properties of the constituent materials under processing conditions. This study investigates the thermal conductivity of silicone diaphragms and carbon fabrics with embedded thermoplastic binder webs, utilizing transient plane source (TPS) and modified transient plane source (MTPS) methods, respectively. Additionally, the specific heat of silicone, carbon fibers (both chopped and powdered), and binder were measured using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Mixed samples comprising chopped fibers with 1.8 wt% binder and powdered fibers with 3.6 wt% binder was also analyzed with DSC. This study also examined the influence of reheating cycles on the specific heat of carbon fiber—3.6 wt% binder samples—and the effect of compaction and vacuum on the thermal conductivity of carbon fabrics with an embedded binder. While silicone exhibited linear-specific heat behavior, the thermoplastic binder showed non-linearity due to phase change. The combined carbon fiber-binder samples demonstrated slight non-linear specific heat variations depending on reheating cycles. The thermal conductivity of the fabric preforms decreased with the addition of thermoplastic binder and under vacuum-compaction conditions. The established temperature-dependent specific heat relationships and thermal conductivity provide valuable data for optimizing DDPF preforming parameters and enhancing energy efficiency in composite manufacturing.
Can We Exploit Inflammasomes for Host-Directed Therapy in the Fight against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection?
Authors: Cebani Lilitha , Mvubu Nontobeko E.
Published: July 2024

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb), is a major global health issue, with around 10 million new cases annually. Advances in TB immunology have improved our understanding of host signaling pathways, leading to innovative therapeutic strategies. Inflammasomes, protein complexes organized by cytosolic pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), play a crucial role in the immune response to M. tb by activating caspase 1, which matures proinflammatory cytokines IL1β and IL18. While inflammation is necessary to fight infection, excessive or dysregulated inflammation can cause tissue damage, highlighting the need for precise inflammasome regulation. Drug-resistant TB strains have spurred research into adjunctive host-directed therapies (HDTs) that target inflammasome pathways to control inflammation. Canonical and non-canonical inflammasome pathways can trigger excessive inflammation, leading to immune system exhaustion and M. tb spread. Novel HDT interventions can leverage precision medicine by tailoring treatments to individual inflammasome responses. Studies show that medicinal plant derivatives like silybin, andrographolide, and micheliolide and small molecules such as OLT1177, INF39, CY-09, JJ002, Ac-YVAD-cmk, TAK-242, and MCC950 can modulate inflammasome activation. Molecular tools like gene silencing and knockouts may also be used for severe TB cases. This review explores these strategies as potential adjunctive HDTs in fighting TB.
A Barth Syndrome Patient-Derived D75H Point Mutation in TAFAZZIN Drives Progressive Cardiomyopathy in Mice
Authors: Snider Paige L. , Sierra Potchanant Elizabeth A. , Sun Zejin , Edwards Donna M. , Chan Ka-Kui , Matias Catalina , Awata Junya , Sheth Aditya , Pride P. Melanie , Payne R. Mark , Rubart Michael , Brault Jeffrey J. , Chin Michael T. , Nalepa Grzegorz , Conway Simon J.
Published: July 2024

Cardiomyopathy is the predominant defect in Barth syndrome (BTHS) and is caused by a mutation of the X-linked Tafazzin (TAZ) gene, which encodes an enzyme responsible for remodeling mitochondrial cardiolipin. Despite the known importance of mitochondrial dysfunction in BTHS, how specific TAZ mutations cause diverse BTHS heart phenotypes remains poorly understood. We generated a patient-tailored CRISPR/Cas9 knock-in mouse allele (TazPM) that phenocopies BTHS clinical traits. As TazPM males express a stable mutant protein, we assessed cardiac metabolic dysfunction and mitochondrial changes and identified temporally altered cardioprotective signaling effectors. Specifically, juvenile TazPM males exhibit mild left ventricular dilation in systole but have unaltered fatty acid/amino acid metabolism and normal adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This occurs in concert with a hyperactive p53 pathway, elevation of cardioprotective antioxidant pathways, and induced autophagy-mediated early senescence in juvenile TazPM hearts. However, adult TazPM males exhibit chronic heart failure with reduced growth and ejection fraction, cardiac fibrosis, reduced ATP, and suppressed fatty acid/amino acid metabolism. This biphasic changeover from a mild-to-severe heart phenotype coincides with p53 suppression, downregulation of cardioprotective antioxidant pathways, and the onset of terminal senescence in adult TazPM hearts. Herein, we report a BTHS genotype/phenotype correlation and reveal that absent Taz acyltransferase function is sufficient to drive progressive cardiomyopathy.
Analysis of HLA Alleles in Different Cohorts of Patients Infected by L. infantum from Southern Spain
Authors: Gutiérrez-Bautista Juan Francisco , Sampedro Antonio , Ballesta-Alcaraz Lucia , Aguilera-Franco María , Olivares-Durán María José , Cobo Fernando , Reguera Juan Antonio , Rodríguez-Granger Javier , Torres-Llamas Andrés , Martín-Sánchez Joaquina , Aznar-Peralta Inés , Vilchez Jose Ramon , López-Nevot Miguel Ángel , Sampedro-Martínez Antonio
Published: July 2024

Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, which is endemic in certain areas of Europe, such as southern Spain. The disease manifests in various clinical phenotypes, including visceral, cutaneous, mucosal, or asymptomatic leishmaniasis. This diversity in clinical outcomes may be influenced by the host immune response, with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules playing a crucial role in determining susceptibility and progression of the infection. This study explores the association between specific HLA variants and Leishmania infantum infection. We recruited four cohorts: a control group, asymptomatic individuals, patients with symptomatic disease, and cohabitants of infected individuals. HLA typing was performed for all participants, followed by an association analysis with infection status and disease progression. Our findings indicate that the HLA-B*38 and HLA-C*03 alleles are associated with protection against L. infantum infection. These results contribute to a better understanding of the disease’s progression, offer potential for new therapeutic approaches such as vaccines, and expand the existing knowledge in the literature.
Metabolomic and Proteomic Analyses to Reveal the Role of Plant-Derived Smoke Solution on Wheat under Salt Stress
Authors: Komatsu Setsuko , Diniyah Azzahrah , Zhu Wei , Nakano Masataka , Rehman Shafiq Ur , Yamaguchi Hisateru , Hitachi Keisuke , Tsuchida Kunihiro
Published: July 2024

Salt stress is a serious problem, because it reduces the plant growth and seed yield of wheat. To investigate the salt-tolerant mechanism of wheat caused by plant-derived smoke (PDS) solution, metabolomic and proteomic techniques were used. PDS solution, which repairs the growth inhibition of wheat under salt stress, contains metabolites related to flavonoid biosynthesis. Wheat was treated with PDS solution under salt stress and proteins were analyzed using a gel-free/label-free proteomic technique. Oppositely changed proteins were associated with protein metabolism and signal transduction in biological processes, as well as mitochondrion, endoplasmic reticulum/Golgi, and plasma membrane in cellular components with PDS solution under salt stress compared to control. Using immuno-blot analysis, proteomic results confirmed that ascorbate peroxidase increased with salt stress and decreased with additional PDS solution; however, H+-ATPase displayed opposite effects. Ubiquitin increased with salt stress and decreased with additional PDS solution; nevertheless, genomic DNA did not change. As part of mitochondrion-related events, the contents of ATP increased with salt stress and recovered with additional PDS solution. These results suggest that PDS solution enhances wheat growth suppressed by salt stress through the regulation of energy metabolism and the ubiquitin-proteasome system related to flavonoid metabolism.
Dynamic and Energetic Aspects of Carotenoids In-and-Around Model Lipid Membranes Revealed in Molecular Modelling
Authors: Pasenkiewicz-Gierula Marta , Hryc Jakub , Markiewicz Michal
Published: July 2024

In contrast to plants, humans are unable to synthesise carotenoids and have to obtain them from diet. Carotenoids fulfil several crucial biological functions in the organism; however, due to poor solubility in water, their bioavailability from plant-based food is low. The processes of carotenoid absorption and availability in the human body have been intensively studied. The recent experimental findings concerning these processes are briefly presented in the introductory part of this review, together with a summary of such topics as carotenoid carriers, body transport and tissue delivery, to finally report on molecular-level studies of carotenoid binding by membrane receptors. The main message of the review is contained in the section describing computational investigations of carotenoid intercalation and dynamic behaviour in lipid bilayers. The relevance of these computational studies lies in showing the direct link between the microscopic behaviour of molecules and the characteristics of their macroscopic ensembles. Furthermore, studying the interactions between carotenoids and lipid bilayers, and certainly proteins, on the molecular- and atomic-level using computational methods facilitates the interpretation and explanation of their macroscopic properties and, hopefully, helps to better understand the biological functions of carotenoids.
Insulin-like Growth Factor-Binding Protein 2 in Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis and Pulmonary Hypertension: A Gender-Based Perspective
Authors: Boxhammer Elke , Paar Vera , Kopp Kristen , Gharibeh Sarah X. , Bovenkamp-Aberger Evelyn , Rezar Richard , Lichtenauer Michael , Hoppe Uta C. , Mirna Moritz
Published: July 2024

Severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) and pulmonary hypertension (PH) are life-threatening cardiovascular conditions, necessitating early detection and intervention. Recent studies have explored the role of Insulin-like Growth Factor-Binding Protein 2 (IGF-BP2) in cardiovascular pathophysiology. Understanding its involvement may offer novel insights into disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets for these conditions. A total of 102 patients (46 female, 56 male) with severe AS undergoing a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in a single-center study were classified using echocardiography tests to determine systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) and the presence (sPAP ≥ 40 mmHg) or absence (sPAP < 40 mmHg) of PH. Additionally, serial laboratory determinations of IGF-BP2 before, and at 24 h, 96 h, and 3 months after intervention were conducted in all study participants. Considering the entire cohort, patients with PH had significant and continuously higher serum IGF-BP2 concentrations over time than patients without PH. After subdivision by sex, it could be demonstrated that the above-mentioned results were only verifiable in males, but not in females. In the male patients, baseline IGF-BP2 levels before the TAVR was an isolated risk factor for premature death after intervention and at 1, 3, and 5 years post-intervention. The same was valid for the combination of male and echocardiographically established PH patients. The predictive role of IGF-BP2 in severe AS and concurrent PH remains unknown. A more profound comprehension of IGF-BP2 mechanisms, particularly in males, could facilitate the earlier consideration of the TAVR as a more effective and successful treatment strategy.
Polynucleotides in Aesthetic Medicine: A Review of Current Practices and Perceived Effectiveness
Authors: Lee Kar Wai Alvin , Chan Kwin Wah Lisa , Lee Angela , Lee Cheuk Hung , Wan Jovian , Wong Sky , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: July 2024

Polynucleotides, complex molecules composed of nucleotides, have gained attention in aesthetic medicine for their potential to regulate gene expression and promote tissue regeneration. This review aims to provide an overview of the current practices and perceived effectiveness of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted using keywords related to polynucleotides, cosmetic application, and aesthetic application. Studies were selected based on their relevance to aesthetic medicine and the inclusion of human subjects. The review found that polynucleotides have been used to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkle depth, and enhance facial appearance. The studies reported varying degrees of efficacy and safety, with some studies demonstrating significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration. However, others reported limited or no benefits. The review also highlighted the need for further research to establish the optimal use and efficacy of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine. While the existing literature suggests that polynucleotides may have potential benefits in aesthetic medicine, more research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and optimal use. Clinicians should be aware of the current limitations and potential risks associated with the use of polynucleotides in aesthetic medicine.
Effects of Nannochloropsis salina Fermented Oil on Proliferation of Human Dermal Papilla Cells and Hair Growth
Authors: Ying Ming , Zhou Jialin , Zeng Zuye , Li Shuangfei , Yang Xuewei
Published: July 2024

The hair follicle is the basis of hair regeneration, and the dermal papilla is one of the most important structures in hair regeneration. New intervention and reversal strategies for hair loss may arise due to the prevention of oxidative stress. GC/MS analysis was used to determine the compounds contained in NSO. Then, NSO was applied to DPC for cell proliferation and oxidative stress experiments. RNA-seq was performed in cells treated with NSO and minoxidil. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied to verify the gene expression. The effects of NSO on hair length, weight, the number and depth of hair follicles, and the dermal thickness were also studied. GC/MS analysis showed that the main components of NSO were eicosapentaenoic acid, palmitic acid, and linoleic acid. NSO promotes DPC proliferation and reduces H2O2-mediated oxidative damage. NSO can also activate hair growth-related pathways and upregulate antioxidant-related genes analyzed by gene profiling. The topical application of NSO significantly promotes hair growth and increases hair length and weight in mice. NSO extract promotes hair growth and effectively inhibits oxidative stress, which is beneficial for the prevention and treatment of hair loss.
Chemotherapeutic Potential of Chlorambucil-Platinum(IV) Prodrugs against Cisplatin-Resistant Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Elias Maria George , Aputen Angelico D. , Fatima Shadma , Mann Timothy J. , Karan Shawan , Mikhael Meena , de Souza Paul , Gordon Christopher P. , Scott Kieran F. , Aldrich-Wright Janice R.
Published: July 2024

Chlorambucil-platinum(IV) prodrugs exhibit multi-mechanistic chemotherapeutic activity with promising anticancer potential. The platinum(II) precursors of the prodrugs have been previously found to induce changes in the microtubule cytoskeleton, specifically actin and tubulin of HT29 colon cells, while chlorambucil alkylates the DNA. These prodrugs demonstrate significant anticancer activity in 2D cell and 3D spheroid viability assays. A notable production of reactive oxygen species has been observed in HT29 cells 72 h post treatment with prodrugs of this type, while the mitochondrial membrane potential was substantially reduced. The cellular uptake of the chlorambucil-platinum(IV) prodrugs, assessed by ICP-MS, confirmed that active transport was the primary uptake mechanism, with platinum localisation identified primarily in the cytoskeletal fraction. Apoptosis and necrosis were observed at 72 h of treatment as demonstrated by Annexin V-FITC/PI assay using flow cytometry. Immunofluorescence measured via confocal microscopy showed significant changes in actin and tubulin intensity and in architecture. Western blot analysis of intrinsic and extrinsic pathway apoptotic markers, microtubule cytoskeleton markers, cell proliferation markers, as well as autophagy markers were studied post 72 h of treatment. The proteomic profile was also studied with a total of 1859 HT29 proteins quantified by mass spectroscopy, with several dysregulated proteins. Network analysis revealed dysregulation in transcription, MAPK markers, microtubule-associated proteins and mitochondrial transport dysfunction. This study confirms that chlorambucil-platinum(IV) prodrugs are candidates with promising anticancer potential that act as multi-mechanistic chemotherapeutics.
Bafilomycin 1A Affects p62/SQSTM1 Autophagy Marker Protein Level and Autophagosome Puncta Formation Oppositely under Various Inflammatory Conditions in Cultured Rat Microglial Cells
Authors: Pesti István , Barczánfalvi Gábor , Dulka Karolina , Kata Diana , Farkas Eszter , Gulya Karoly
Published: July 2024

Regulation of autophagy through the 62 kDa ubiquitin-binding protein/autophagosome cargo protein sequestosome 1 (p62/SQSTM1), whose level is generally inversely proportional to autophagy, is crucial in microglial functions. Since autophagy is involved in inflammatory mechanisms, we investigated the actions of pro-inflammatory lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and anti-inflammatory rosuvastatin (RST) in secondary microglial cultures with or without bafilomycin A1 (BAF) pretreatment, an antibiotic that potently inhibits autophagosome fusion with lysosomes. The levels of the microglia marker protein Iba1 and the autophagosome marker protein p62/SQSTM1 were quantified by Western blots, while the number of p62/SQSTM1 immunoreactive puncta was quantitatively analyzed using fluorescent immunocytochemistry. BAF pretreatment hampered microglial survival and decreased Iba1 protein level under all culturing conditions. Cytoplasmic p62/SQSTM1 level was increased in cultures treated with LPS+RST but reversed markedly when BAF+LPS+RST were applied together. Furthermore, the number of p62/SQSTM1 immunoreactive autophagosome puncta was significantly reduced when RST was used but increased significantly in BAF+RST-treated cultures, indicating a modulation of autophagic flux through reduction in p62/SQSTM1 degradation. These findings collectively indicate that the cytoplasmic level of p62/SQSTM1 protein and autophagocytotic flux are differentially regulated, regardless of pro- or anti-inflammatory state, and provide context for understanding the role of autophagy in microglial function in various inflammatory settings.
Phase-Dependent Response to Electrical Stimulation of Cortical Networks during Recurrent Epileptiform Short Discharge Generation In Vitro
Authors: Chizhov Anton V. , Tiselko Vasilii S. , Postnikova Tatyana Yu. , Zaitsev Aleksey V.
Published: July 2024

The closed-loop control of pathological brain activity is a challenging task. In this study, we investigated the sensitivity of continuous epileptiform short discharge generation to electrical stimulation applied at different phases between the discharges using an in vitro 4-AP-based model of epilepsy in rat hippocampal slices. As a measure of stimulation effectiveness, we introduced a sensitivity function, which we then measured in experiments and analyzed with different biophysical and abstract mathematical models, namely, (i) the two-order subsystem of our previous Epileptor-2 model, describing short discharge generation governed by synaptic resource dynamics; (ii) a similar model governed by shunting conductance dynamics (Epileptor-2B); (iii) the stochastic leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF)-like model applied for the network; (iv) the LIF model with potassium M-channels (LIF+KM), belonging to Class II of excitability; and (v) the Epileptor-2B model with after-spike depolarization. A semi-analytic method was proposed for calculating the interspike interval (ISI) distribution and the sensitivity function in LIF and LIF+KM models, which provided parametric analysis. Sensitivity was found to increase with phase for all models except the last one. The Epileptor-2B model is favored over other models for subthreshold oscillations in the presence of large noise, based on the comparison of ISI statistics and sensitivity functions with experimental data. This study also emphasizes the stochastic nature of epileptiform discharge generation and the greater effectiveness of closed-loop stimulation in later phases of ISIs.
New Advances in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Rizzo Manfredi , Rizvi Ali A.
Published: July 2024

It is with great anticipation and pride that we present a Special Issue entitled “New Advances in Metabolic Syndrome”, which provides a compendium of high-quality original papers written on novel aspects of metabolic syndrome (MetS) [...]
Exorbital Lacrimal Gland Ablation and Regrafting Induce Inflammation but Not Regeneration or Dry Eye
Authors: Murashima Adriana de Andrade Batista , Sant’Ana Ariane M. S. , Faustino-Barros Jacqueline Ferreira , Machado Filho Elísio B. , da Silva Lilian Costa Mendes , Fantucci Marina Zilio , Módulo Carolina Maria , Chahud Fernando , Garcia Denny Marcos , Rocha Eduardo M.
Published: July 2024

The study evaluated the regenerative responses of the lacrimal functional unit (LFU) after lacrimal gland (LG) ablation. The LG of Wistar rats was submitted to G1) partial LG ablation, G2) partial ablation and transplantation of an allogeneic LG, or G3) total LG ablation, (n = 7–10/group). The eye wipe test, slit lamp image, tear flow, and histology were evaluated. RT-PCR analyzed inflammatory and proliferation mediators. The findings were compared to naïve controls after 1 and 2 months (M1 and M2). G3 presented increased corneal sensitivity, and the 3 groups showed corneal neovascularization. Histology revealed changes in the LG and corneal inflammation. In the LG, there was an increase in MMP-9 mRNA of G1 and G2 at M1 and M2, in RUNX-1 at M1 and M2 in G1, in RUNX-3 mRNA at M1 in G1, and at M2 in G2. TNF-α mRNA rose in the corneas of G1 and G2 at M2. There was an increase in the IL-1β mRNA in the trigeminal ganglion of G1 at M1. Without changes in tear flow or evidence of LG regeneration, LG ablation and grafting are unreliable models for dry eye or LG repair in rats. The surgical manipulation extended inflammation to the LFU.
Association of IL-17A and IL-10 Polymorphisms with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in Finnish Children
Authors: Möttönen Milja , Teräsjärvi Johanna , Rahikkala Heidi , Kvist Sonja , Mertsola Jussi , He Qiushui
Published: July 2024

To analyze the role of interleukin IL-17A and IL-10 polymorphisms in susceptibility to juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), 98 Finnish children and adolescents with JIA were studied. Data from the 1000 Genomes Project, consisting of 99 healthy Finns, served as the controls. The patients were analyzed for four IL-17A and three IL-10 gene-promoter polymorphisms, and the serum IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-10, and IL-6 levels were determined. The IL-17A rs8193036 variant genotypes (CT/CC) were more common among the patients than controls, especially in those with polyarthritis (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.11–3.36; p = 0.020). IL-17A rs2275913 minor allele A was more common in patients (OR 1.45, 95% Cl 1.08–1.94; p = 0.014) and especially among patients with oligoarthritis and polyarthritis than the controls (OR 1.61, 95%CI 1.06–2.43; p = 0.024). Carriers of the IL-17A rs4711998 variant genotype (AG/AA) had higher serum IL-17A levels than those with genotype GG. However, carriers of the variant genotypes of IL-17A rs9395767 and rs4711998 appeared to have higher IL-17F levels than those carrying wildtype. IL-10 rs1800896 variant genotypes (TC/CC) were more abundant in patients than in the controls (OR 1.97, 95%CI 1.06–3.70; p = 0.042). Carriers of the IL-10 rs1800896 variant genotypes had lower serum levels of IL-17F than those with wildtype. These data provide preliminary evidence of the roles of IL-17 and IL-10 in the pathogenesis of JIA and its subtypes in the Finnish population. However, the results should be interpreted with caution, as the number of subjects included in this study was limited.
The Motility of β-Cyclodextrins Threaded on the Polyrotaxane Based Triblock Polymer and Its Influences on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Wang Yufei , Niu Yafang , Geng Xue , Feng Zengguo , Ye Lin
Published: July 2024

Polyrotaxane (PR) has garnered increasing attention due to its unique structure and exceptional performance. In this study, a polypseudorotaxane (PPR) initiator was prepared through the self-assembly of bromine-capped Pluronic F68 and β-cyclodextrins (β-CD) in water. Polyrotaxane-containing triblock copolymers (PR copolymers) were successfully synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of butyl methacrylate (BMA) using the PPR initiator in the presence of Cu(I)Br/PMDETA. The structure of the PR copolymers was thoroughly characterized using infrared spectroscopy (IR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The mobility of β-CD in the PR copolymers was demonstrated through dielectric measurements. Mechanical tests, including tensile strength assessments, thermal mechanical analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis, confirmed the excellent mechanical properties and good processability of the PR copolymer, attributed to the PBMA blocks. Furthermore, the mechanical properties were found to be modulated by the motility of the threaded β-CDs. Consequently, the superior mechanical properties and the high mobility of the threaded β-CDs suggest promising potential for the as-prepared PR polymer in various advanced applications.
Carnap and Wittgenstein: Tolerance, Arbitrariness, and Truth
Authors: Kuusela Oskari
Published: July 2024

This article discusses the relationship between Ludwig Wittgenstein’s and Rudolf Carnap’s philosophies of logic during the time of Wittgenstein’s interactions with the Vienna Circle and up to 1934 when the German edition of Carnap’s The Logical Syntax of Language was published. Whilst Section 1 focuses on the relationship between Carnap and Wittgenstein’s Tractatus, including Wittgenstein’s accusation of plagiarism against Carnap in 1932, Section 2 discusses the relationship between Carnap’s principle of tolerance and Wittgenstein’s similar principle of the arbitrariness of grammar. I argue that, although Carnap’s claim in Logical Syntax to ‘go beyond’ Wittgenstein has certain justification in relation to the Tractatus, so does Wittgenstein’s priority claim. The relationship between Carnap’s philosophy of logic and the Tractatus is thus more complicated than is often recognized. If the reference point is Wittgenstein in the early 1930s, however, Carnap cannot be described as going beyond him, and by 1934, Wittgenstein had advanced further than Carnap would ever venture. Despite evidence that Carnap knew about Wittgenstein’s principle of the arbitrariness of syntax well before his first articulations of his principle of tolerance, the extent of the influence of Wittgenstein’s principle on Carnap remains unclear. What can be established with certainty is that Wittgenstein’s principle predates Carnap’s and that Carnap resisted acknowledging him despite being urged to do so. Arguably, Wittgenstein’s account of syntax as both arbitrary and non-arbitrary is also superior in clarity to Carnap’s misleading claim about a ‘complete freedom’ implied by the principle of tolerance, because such a freedom only exists for idle syntactical systems that are not put to work. In Section 3, I discuss the relationship between Carnap’s notion of expediency and Wittgenstein’s account of the correctness or truth of logical accounts. As my discussion of Wittgenstein’s account brings out, Carnap’s rejection of truth in logic for expediency as the goal of logical clarifications does not follow from the principle of tolerance and is not justified by it. It remains unclear what justifies Carnap’s rejection of truth as the goal of logical clarification. Again, Wittgenstein’s account seems preferable, given the vacuity of the claim that expediency constitutes the basis of choice between different logical languages and clarifications.
LPDi GAN: A License Plate De-Identification Method to Preserve Strong Data Utility
Authors: Li Xiying , Liu Heng , Lin Qunxiong , Sun Quanzhong , Jiang Qianyin , Su Shuyan
Published: July 2024

License plate (LP) information is an important part of personal privacy, which is protected by law. However, in some publicly available transportation datasets, the LP areas in the images have not been processed. Other datasets have applied simple de-identification operations such as blurring and masking. Such crude operations will lead to a reduction in data utility. In this paper, we propose a method of LP de-identification based on a generative adversarial network (LPDi GAN) to transform an original image to a synthetic one with a generated LP. To maintain the original LP attributes, the background features are extracted from the background to generate LPs that are similar to the originals. The LP template and LP style are also fed into the network to obtain synthetic LPs with controllable characters and higher quality. The results show that LPDi GAN can perceive changes in environmental conditions and LP tilt angles, and control the LP characters through the LP templates. The perceptual similarity metric, Learned Perceptual Image Patch Similarity (LPIPS), reaches 0.25 while ensuring the effect of character recognition on de-identified images, demonstrating that LPDi GAN can achieve outstanding de-identification while preserving strong data utility.
Research on a Train Safety Driving Method Based on Fusion of an Incremental Clustering Algorithm and Lightweight Shared Convolution
Authors: Wang Hongping , Liu Xin , Song Linsen , Zhang Yiwen , Rong Xin , Wang Yitian
Published: July 2024

This paper addresses the challenge of detecting unknown or unforeseen obstacles in railway track transportation, proposing an innovative detection strategy that integrates an incremental clustering algorithm with lightweight segmentation techniques. In the detection phase, the paper innovatively employs the incremental clustering algorithm as a core method, combined with dilation and erosion theories, to expand the boundaries of point cloud clusters, merging adjacent point cloud elements into unified clusters. This method effectively identifies and connects spatially adjacent point cloud clusters while efficiently eliminating noise from target object point clouds, thereby achieving more precise recognition of unknown obstacles on the track. Furthermore, the effective integration of this algorithm with lightweight shared convolutional semantic segmentation algorithms enables accurate localization of obstacles. Experimental results using two combined public datasets demonstrate that the obstacle detection average recall rate of the proposed method reaches 90.3%, significantly enhancing system reliability. These findings indicate that the proposed detection strategy effectively improves the accuracy and real-time performance of obstacle recognition, thereby presenting important practical application value for ensuring the safe operation of railway tracks.
A Hybrid Model for Household Waste Sorting (HWS) Based on an Ensemble of Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Wu Nengkai , Wang Gui , Jia Dongyao
Published: July 2024

The exponential increase in waste generation is a significant global challenge with serious implications. Addressing this issue necessitates the enhancement of waste management processes. This study introduces a method that improves waste separation by integrating learning models at various levels. The method begins with the creation of image features as a new matrix using the Multi-Scale Local Binary Pattern (MLBP) technique. This technique optimally represents features and patterns across different scales. Following this, an ensemble model at the first level merges two Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models, with each model performing the detection operation independently. A second-level CNN model is then employed to obtain the final output. This model uses the information from the first-level models and combines these features to perform a more accurate detection. The study’s novelty lies in the use of a second-level CNN model in the proposed ensemble system for fusing the results obtained from the first level, replacing conventional methods such as voting and averaging. Additionally, the study employs an MLBP feature selection approach for a more accurate description of the HW image features. It uses the Simulated Annealing (SA) algorithm for fine-tuning the hyperparameters of the CNN models, thereby optimizing the system’s performance. Based on the accuracy metric, the proposed method achieved an accuracy of 99.01% on the TrashNet dataset and 99.41% on the HGCD dataset. These results indicate a minimum improvement of 0.48% and 0.36%, respectively, compared to the other methods evaluated in this study.
ANALISIS DAMPAK LALU LINTAS AKIBAT RELOKASI PASAR HEWAN DI BANGSRI KABUPATEN JEPARA
Authors: Hilmatunniyah Saqifah , Umam Khotibul , Adi saputro Yayan
Published: July 2024

Analisis ini dilatar belakangi oleh adanya relokasi pasar hewan bangsri yang mulai beroperasi pada 25 agustus 2022 hal ini menyebakan adanya penembahan beban lalu lintas dan dikarenakan pasar merupakan tempat baru dalam hal parkir masih terdapat maslah seperti kurang beraturan dalam memarirkan kendaraan. Maka dari itu diperlukan adanya analisis dampak lalulintas akibat relokasi pasar hewan bangsri, setelah dilakukan analisis didapatkan kapasitas simpang 4 bersinyal bangsri dengan pendekatan tertinggi yaitu pendekatan barat 830,55 smp dengan derajat kejenuhan tertinggi pada pendekatan utara 0,68 dan tundaan tertinggi terjadi pada pendekatan utara yaitu 30,4 dtk/smp dengan kategori D. Pada simpang 3 tak bersinyal jeruk wangi kapasitas simpang yaitu 1231 smp dan tingkat pelayanannya 0,41 dengan kategori B. analisis menggunaka Software Vissim dilakukan pada simpang 4 bersinyal bangsri output tingkat pelayanan yaitu LOS D dan simpang 3 tak bersinyal output tingkat pelayanan yatiu LOS A Kebutuhan ruang parkir pada pasar hewan bangsri yang harus disediakan untuk sepeda motor 99 SPR, kendaraan ringan 94 SPR, dan kendaraan berat 22 SPR
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM INFORMASI PENGOLAHAN DATA CUSTOMER DIGITAL MARKETING PADA MB STORE
Authors: Romdoni Mochamad Yusuf
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this research is to design and build a data processing information system at the MB Store which is engaged in digital marketing services. The current problems Processing customer data while still using static data so that it still makes it difficult for admins to find and collect customer data information both those that are being processed, currently running and also those who have ordered before. This static data collection also often causes confusion or misunderstanding between customers and service officers in controlling different customer needs, besides that it also often causes confusion between one customer order package and another, who have and have not paid. , still in the process of ordering as well as the customer data information itself. This is caused because the data is entered separately in each document in Microsoft Excel so that the checking process must be carried out manually. So that this also causes the admin officer to have difficulties in re-data, tracking and matching customer data that has been stored. To overcome the problems that occur, research is carried out which aims to provide solutions to the Miss Bolin Store (MB Store), namely by building a Customer Data Processing Information System using Microsoft Visual Studio and MySQL. The model used in the development of this research uses the Waterfall Model with 5 stages, namely software requirements analysis, design, program code generation, testing and maintenance. Collecting data using interview techniques, observation and literature study. This information system is expected to make it easier for admins to find data, collect customer information, help the service process to customers be faster and can reduce the occurrence of mistakes or misunderstandings in the customer order data itself.
Automatic Cat Feeder pada Penitipan Hewan dengan Platform Blynk
Authors: Yuda Afri
Published: July 2024

PETJOY Clinic and Petshop seringkali mengalami permasalahan dalam melaksanakan bisnis penitipan hewan peliharaan terutama kucing. Perbedaan jenis makanan dan juga tingkah laku kucing yang berbeda memerlukan perlakuan yang berbeda. Automatic Cat Feeder berbasis Internet of Things (IoT) yang didukung oleh mikrokontroler ESP32 dengan teknologi BLE menjadi solusi untuk meringankan pekerjaan bagi petugas petshop untuk menjaga agar makanan tetap dapat disuplai secara proporsional untuk setiap kucing yang dititipkan. Pakan harus tetap segar dan diberikan pada waktu yang tepat, sehingga sistem ini juga dilengkapi dengan fitur penjadwalan waktu pakan dan volume pakan yang ditentukan. Sistem Automatic Cat Feeder ini dikoneksikan melalui platform cloud Blynk yang dapat diakses melalui mobile phone. Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian eksperimen dan berhasil mengembangkan sistem sesuai spesifikasi kebutuhan yang didefinisikan dan petugas petshop dapat mengatur waktu dengan beban pekerjaan lain di petshop
FAKTOR LANGSUNG DAN TIDAK LANGSUNG DENGAN KEJADIAN STUNTING
Authors: Irjayanti Apriyana , Irmanto Maxsi , Safitri Fatiah Mona
Published: July 2024

Kasus stunting menjadi permasalahan global yang saat ini merupakan satu faktor terhambatnya perkembangan manusia di dunia. Tujuan riset yaitu menganalisis faktor langsung dan tidak langsung kejadian stunting. Metode riset memakai analitik observasional dengan desain case control. Populasi dan sampel yaitu rumah tangga yang memiliki balita berusia 25-59 bulan yang berisiko stunting di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Jayapura Utara sebanyak 82 balita. Besar sampel menggunakan perbandingan sampel antara kasus dan kontrol 1:1. Teknik pengambilan sampel yaitu teknik consecutive sampling. Seluruh variabel memakai instrumen kuesioner dan analisis data univariat dan bivariat. Hasil riset didapatkan ada korelasi antara riwayat penyakit diare dengan stunting pada balita (p-value = 0,001) dan tidak terdapat korelasi antara praktik cuci tangan (p-value = 0,258), praktik buang air besar (p-value = 0,081), praktik pengamanan sampah rumah tangga (p-value = 0,649), praktik pengelolaan air minum dan makanan (p-value = 1,000), akses air minum (p-value = 0,065), sanitasi jamban (p-value = 0,797), sanitasi pembuangan limbah cair (p-value = 0,068), dan sanitasi sampah rumah tangga (p-value = 1,000) dengan stunting pada balita. Saran riset ini ialah masyarakat agar membiasakan diri berperilaku higienis dan saniter serta membarui dan menegakkan keberlanjutan budaya hidup bersih dan sehat.
 
 
The case of stunting is a global problem which is currently a factor in hampering human development in the world. The aim of the research is to analyze direct and indirect factors in the incidence of stunting. The research method uses observational analytics with a case control design. The population and sample are 82 households with toddlers aged 25-59 months who are at risk of stunting in the working area of ​​the North Jayapura Community Health Center. The sample size uses a sample ratio of 1:1 between cases and controls. The sampling technique is consecutive sampling technique. All variables use questionnaire instruments and univariate and bivariate data analysis. The research results showed that there was a correlation between a history of diarrhea and stunting in toddlers (p-value = 0.001) and there was no correlation between hand washing practices (p-value = 0.258), defecation practices (p-value = 0.081), safety practices household waste (p-value = 0.649), drinking water and food management practices (p-value = 1.000), access to drinking water (p-value = 0.065), latrine sanitation (p-value = 0.797), liquid waste disposal sanitation (p-value = 0.068), and household waste sanitation (p-value = 1.000) with stunting in toddlers. The advice of this research is for the public to get used to hygienic and sanitary behavior and to renew and uphold the sustainability of a clean and healthy living culture.
EFEKTIFITAS E-KADARSI (KELUARGA SADAR HIPERTENSI) TERHADAP EVALUASI TUGAS KELUARGA PASIEN BERISIKO KRISIS HIPERTENSI
Authors: Fitriyani Noor , Vioneery Deoni , Listrikawati Martini , Prastiwi Firman
Published: July 2024

Peningkatan prevalensi  hipertensi setiap tahunnya diperlukan strategi secara global dalam pencegahan dan pengendalian. Tatalaksana  hipertensi  melalui pendekatan  keluarga  menjadikan  kemampuan  mengenali  masalah  dan pemecahan masalah lebih menyeluruh. Salah satu implementasi yang dapat diberikan adalah pemberian edukasi berbasis online ditujukan pada keluarga dengan hipertensi. Tujuan penelitian  untuk mengetahui keefektifan e-KADARSI (Keluarga Sadar Hipertensi) Terhadap Evaluasi Tugas Keluarga  Pasien Hipertensi. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah quasy eksperimental dengan pretest and posttest with control design. Jumlah subjek dalam penelitian ini adalah 60, terdiri 30 kelompok kontrol dengan intervensi standart dan 30 kelompok intervensi yang akan diberikan implementasi  e-KADARSI  dan diukur evaluasi tugas keluarga  dengan kuisioner  sebelum  dan  sesudah  diberikan. Hasil analisa menunjukkan bahwa e-KADARSI efektif dalam evaluasi tugas keluarga dengan selisih nilai rata  rata kedua kelompok sebesar 28.34 pada nilai  pre test  dan post test. Kesimpulan e-KADARSI sebagai tatalaksana yang tepat dalam upaya pencegahan krisis hipertens ditujukan pada keluarga.
 
The increasing prevalence of hypertension every year requires a global strategy for prevention and control. Management of hypertension through a family approach makes the ability to recognize problems and solve problems more comprehensive. One implementation that can be provided is providing online-based education aimed at families with hypertension. The aim of the research is to determine the effectiveness of e-KADARSI (Hypertension Awareness Family) in evaluating the duties of families of hypertension patients. The method used in this research was quasi-experimental with pretest and posttest with control design. The number of subjects in this study was 60, consisting of 30 control groups with standard intervention and 30 intervention groups who would be given the implementation of e-KADARSI and measured evaluation of family tasks with questionnaires before and after being given. The results of the analysis show that e-KADARSI is effective in evaluating family tasks with a difference in the average score between the two groups of 28.34 in the pre-test and post-test scores. Conclusion e-KADARSI as appropriate management in efforts to prevent hypertension crises is aimed at families.
Relation of Educational, Research and Innovative Functions of Universities
Authors: Газитдинов А.М.
Published: July 2024

В статье приводятся результаты анализа образовательной и исследовательской деятельности в секторе высшего образования. На основе данных результатов сделан вывод о необходимости реформирования сектора. Анализируются и сопоставляются различные альтернативы по организации научно-исследовательской, образовательной и инновационной деятельности в секторе.

The article presents the results of the analysis of educational and research activities in the higher education sector. Based on the results the conclusion is made about the need to reform the sector. Alternatives for the organization of research, education and innovation activities in the sector are analyzed and compared.