bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diesel Fuel for Use both in Arctic and in Subtropical Regions
Authors:   PJSC “Slavneft-YANOS”, Karpov N. V. , Vakhromov N. N. ,   PJSC “Slavneft-YANOS”, Dutlov E. V. ,   PJSC “Slavneft-YANOS”, Sharin E. A. ,   The 25th State Research Institute of chemmotology of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation, Bubnov M. A. ,   PJSC “Slavneft-YANOS”, Gudkevich I. V. ,   PJSC “Slavneft-YANOS”, Koval’chuk S. S. ,   PJSC “Slavneft-YANOS”, Maksimov A. L. ,   A.V.Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, RAS (TIPS RAS), Fadeev V. V. ,   LLC "United Research and Development Centre" (RN-RDC, LLC), Rudyak K. B. ,   LLC "United Research and Development Centre" (RN-RDC, LLC), Romanov A. A. ,   State educational institution "Lyceum No. 86", Borisanov D. V. ,   PJSC “Slavneft-YANOS”
Published: February 2023

This paper reviews the possibility to obtain all-season diesel fuel, the effective use of which is possible both in the Arctic and in the subtropical climate. The resulting fuel has a cetane number at the level of requirements for summer diesel fuels of Euro 5standard, a flash point in accordance with not less than 62°C and a pour point not higher than minus 55°C without the involvement of a depressant-dispersant additive. The conducted research has shown that none of the narrow fractions isolated from oil typical for refineries in the central part of the Russian Federation, has the required properties, even taking into account the introduction of ignition promoters. The improvement of low-temperature properties due to the cracking of n-alkanes in the process of catalyticdewaxing leads to a significant decrease in the cetane number; therefore, in this paper, the application of the process of diesel fuel isodewaxing on a platinum catalyst is considered. This process makes it possible to significantly improve the low-temperature properties of the dewaxed product with a moderate decrease in its cetane number. The optimal conditions for the processof isodewaxing were determined, the optimal feed for the unit was selected.
CLASSIFICATION OF LOSSES DURING TURNOVER AT THE FACILITIES OF LOW-TONNAGE CONSUMPTION OF LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS
Authors:   Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas, Zorya E. I. , Gladkov I. V. ,   Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas, Neshchadimov V. S. ,   Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas
Published: February 2023

The small-scale liquefied natural gas industry is an emerging industry that is already profitable and highly scalable, with significant potential for further expansion. The industry has advantages in generating electricity for industrial and domestic needs in remote areas, as it allows gasification of facilities without direct connection to the main natural gas pipeline. Small scale LNG businesses can benefit from the ongoing active transition to low-carb energy as market and regulatory pressure increases. Losses of marketable products arising from the operation of low-tonnage LNG consumption facilities should be taken into account when balancing the balance sheet.
A földrajzi árujelzők uniós oltalmának tervezett új szabályozása
Authors: Kókai-Kunné Szabó Ágnes
Published: February 2023

Ez a cikk áttekintést ad az agrártermékek földrajzi árujelzői uniós oltalmának történetéről és az új tervezetekről, amelyek módosítják a hatályos szabályokat és bevezeti a kézműves termékek és az ipari termékek földrajzi árujelzőinek rendszerét. A kézműves termékek és az ipari termékek földrajzi árujelzőinek uniós oltalma jelenleg még nem létezik. 1992-ben vezették be a mezőgazdasági termékek és élelmiszerek földrajzi árujelzőinek közösségi oltalmát, majd 2008-ban a borászati termékek és szeszes italok oltalmát. 2022-ben kezdte el a Bizottság az agrártermékek, borok és szeszesitalok földrajzi árujelzőire vonatkozó új tervezet egyeztetését. A tervezet szigorítja a jelenlegi rendszert, egyszerűsíti a bejegyzési eljárást, erősíti az interneten árusított termékek oltalmát és új szabályokat alkot a doménnevek rendszerében a földrajzi árujelzők oltalmára. A tervezet szabályozza az EUIPO technikai segítségnyújtását is.
ANALISIS FINANCIAL DISTRESS PADA PERUSAHAAN PERBANKAN SYARIAH YANG TERDAFTAR DI BURSA EFEK INDONESIA
Authors: Zulkarnain Muhammad , Sumaizar  , Mukarramah
Published: February 2023

The study was conducted to analyze financial distress at 4 Islamic banks listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The four banks became the population and sample in this study, which consisted of PT. Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BRIS), PT. Bank Aladin Syariah Tbk (BANK), PT. Bank BTPN Syariah Tbk (BTPS) and PT. Bank Panin Dubai Syariah Tbk (PNBS). The data used is secondary data from the Financial Services Authority website for 2016-2021. The data analysis technique uses financial distress analysis with the Springate model. The research results obtained that only PT. Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BRIS) for 2016-2021 is in good condition. PT. Bank Aladin Syariah Tbk (BANK) in 2016, 2018 and 2021 with results of S < 0.861 so that it can be declared unhealthy or experiencing financial difficulties. Likewise with PT. Bank BTPN Syariah Tbk (BTPS) also experienced financial difficulties in 2018 and 2018 with an S value <0.862. Then PT. Bank Panin Dubai Syariah Tbk (PNBS) in 2017 and 2021 also obtained an S value <0.862. This is because the Bank obtains a negative profit value or suffers a loss.
PENGARUH CITRA MEREK, HARGA, INOVASI DAN KUALITAS PRODUK TERHADAP LOYALITAS PELANGGAN PADA KOSMETIK WARDAH DI KOTA LANGSA
Authors: Cut Liza Fadhila  , Dewi Rosa Indah  , Safrizal
Published: February 2023

This study aims to examine the effect of brand image, price, innovation and product quality on customer loyalty at Wardah cosmetics in Langsa City. The data analysis method used is multiple linear regression analysis method. The population in this study were all Wardah consumers in Langsa City with an unknown population and the sample used was 96 respondents. The sampling technique used is non-probability sampling with purposive sampling method. The multiple linear regression analysis equation obtained is Y = 28,933 + 0,068X1 + 0,072X2 + 0,052X3 + 0,055X4. The constant value of 28.933 is the value of customer loyalty if the variable X is fixed. Variables X1 and X2 have a negative effect on Y, while X3 and X4 have a positive effect on Y. The results of the t-test of the X1 variable have a value of 0.049 <0.05, which means that the X1 variable has a significant effect on Y, the X2 variable has a value of 0.050 <0.05, which means that the X2 variable has a significant effect. on Y, the X3 variable has a value of 0.062 > 0.05, which means that the X3 variable has no significant effect on Y, and the X4 variable has a value of 0.000 < 0.05, which means that the X4 variable has a significant effect on Y. The F test results obtained a value of 0.001 < 0.05 which indicates that the variable used significant effect on Y. The coefficient of determination test results obtained a value of 14.3% and the remaining 85.7% is influenced by other factors not examined in this study.
KONSEP BISNIS WISATA HALAL DALAM MENINGKATKAN PEREKONOMIAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: M. Nur Arsyad Muhajir , Ismawan Agus , Khilda Amalia
Published: February 2023

This study's purpose is to explain the concept of halal tourism and its potential for future development. Because the concept of halal has now developed into the lifestyle of most of the population in Indonesia. The findings show that the tourism industry makes a major contribution to improving the welfare of a country or region as a whole. It is impossible to separate the actions and economic players engaged in tourism from the tourism industry as a whole since tourism is an economic activity.. These actors include community actors acting as customers, company actors acting as service providers, and the state as the regulator. According to the research results, the management of the halal sector must include halal components, both substances and methods of obtaining and processing them. A halal industrial area must have all these elements, including a halal management team, halal facilities and infrastructure, and halal allocation of all industrial plots. Islamic economic ideas and concepts guide the administration of the halal industry. In Islamic economics, all ideas and theories are sourced from the Qur'an and the Hadith of the Prophet.
The Influence of Communication, Work Motivation and Work Environment on Employee Performance with Work Discipline as a Mediating Variable
Authors:   Tridinanti University, Palembang, Indonesia, Noviantoro Djatmiko , Marisa Silvia ,   Tridinanti University, Palembang, Indonesia, Sakarina Sari ,   Tridinanti University, Palembang, Indonesia
Published: February 2023

An organization's ability to achieve its goals depends largely on the performance of its employees, so focused and productive employees are a valuable asset for success in a highly competitive environment. This study examines the influence of communication, work motivation, and environment on employee performance, with work discipline as a mediating variable. The sample of this study is all employees of the Planning and Finance Section of the Regional Secretariat of Prabumulih City (South Sumatra, Indonesia), totaling 47 people. Data analysis was performed using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method in three stages: a. Outer model analysis; b. Inner model analysis; c. Hypothesis test. The results of this study indicate that the factors chosen by the authors, namely communication, work motivation, work environment, and work discipline, affect employees' performance. In addition, communication through work discipline can improve employee performance, as seen in employees who improve task coordination, try to solve problems together, share information, and build relationships through joint activities. Work motivation through work discipline can improve employee performance, as seen in employees who get bonuses for good work results. The work environment through work discipline can improve employee performance if the building where employees work meets safety standards and employees maintain good relations with co-workers. Hence, an organization should pay attention to each factor to increase employee productivity. An organization's policy on human resource management should be comprehensive – it should include an analysis of the factors discussed in this study and many other factors.
Distribusi Nannofosil dan Foraminifera pada Batas Pliosen-Plistosen Formasi Batilembuti di Pulau Yamdena, Provinsi Maluku dan Relevansinya dengan Tektonik Regional
Authors: Widhiyatmoko Maskur , Vijaya Isnaniawardhani  , Moh Heri Hermiyanto Zajuli
Published: February 2023

Analisis mikropaleontologi (foraminifera dan nannofosil) merupakan data pendukung dalam merekonstruksi stratigrafi sedimen laut. Studi ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis keragaman dan kelimpahan nannofosil serta foraminifera untuk menentukan umur dan lingkungan pengendapan, serta hubungannya dengan aktifitas tektonik. Berdasarkan kumpulan nannofosil yang terkandung pada empat sampel dari Formasi Batilembuti, batuan ini berumur NN18-NN19, atau batas Pliosen-Plistosen, yang ditandai oleh akhir kemunculan Discoaster brouweri dan awal kemunculan Gephyrocapsa caribbeanica. Berdasarkan foraminifera planktonik, batuan tersebut berumur N21-N22, yang ditentukan dari akhir kemunculan Globigerinoides trilobus fistulosus, Sphaeroidinellopsis seminulina, Globorotalia multicamerata, dan Globigerinoides obliquus extremus dan awal munculnya Globorotalia truncatulinoides. Kumpulan foraminifera bentonik mengindikasikan Formasi Batilembuti diendapkan pada lingkungan batial atas. Rekonstruksi stratigrafi menggambarkan Formasi Batilembuti ditutupi secara tidak selaras oleh batugamping Formasi Batimafudi yang terbentuk pada lingkungan lebih dangkal (sublitoral luar atau neritik luar). Hal ini relevan dengan tektonik regional collision, berlangsung sejak dua juta tahun lalu (batas Pliosen-Plistosen), yang mengakibatkan Kepulauan Tanimbar mengalami pengangkatan hingga akhirnya muncul di permukaan.
Katakunci: Foraminifera, nannofosil, Pliosen, Plistosen, Yamdena.
Comparative Analysis of Clinical Outcomes after Placement of Enhanced Monofocal, Monofocal, and Trifocal Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Kim Bu Ki , Chung Young Taek
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To compare the clinical outcomes of patients given an enhanced monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) (Isopure; PhysIOL, Liege, Belgium), and monofocal, and trifocal IOLs.Methods: Patients who underwent cataract surgery with bilateral implantation of monofocal Vivinex IOLs, enhanced monofocal Isopure IOLs, and trifocal Panoptix IOLs were included. Three months postoperatively, the uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), intermediate visual acuity (UIVA), and near visual acuity (UNVA), as well as the spherical equivalent (SE) were determined. Photic symptoms were explored via a questionnaire.Results: The postoperative SE and UDVA did not differ significantly among the three groups (p = 0.100 and 0.204 respectively). The mean UIVAs (logMAR) were 0.61 ± 0.14, 0.3 ± 0.1, and 0.14 ± 0.11 in the Vivinex, Isopure, and Panoptix groups respectively. The Isopure group exhibited a significantly better UIVA than the Vivinex group (p < 0.001) and the Panoptix group exhibited a significantly better UIVA than either the Vivinex or Isopure group (p = 0.002 and < 0.001 respectively). The mean UNVAs (logMAR) were 0.68 ± 0.16, 0.57 ± 0.19, and 0.17 ± 0.12 for the Vivinex, Isopure, and Panoptix groups respectively. There was no significant UNVA difference between the Vivinex and Isopure groups (p = 0.185) but the UNVA of the Panoptix group was significantly better than the UNVAs of the Vivinex and Isopure groups (both p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in photic symptoms between the Vivinex and Isopure groups (p = 0.980); however, the Panoptix group evidenced significantly more severe symptoms than did the other two groups (p = 0.021 and 0.042 respectively).Conclusions: Enhanced monofocal Isopure IOL showed superior intermediate vision compared to Vivinex monofocal IOL, and inferior intermediate and near visual acuity compared Panoptix trifocal IOL, but with fewer photic symptoms.
Salmon lice loads on Atlantic salmon smolts associated with reduced welfare and increased population mortalities
Authors: Ives SC , Armstrong JD , Collins C , Moriarty M , Murray AG
Published: February 2023

Modelling potential impacts of salmon lice Lepeophtheirus salmonis on Atlantic salmon Salmo salar requires estimation of the levels that cause serious sub-lethal physiological impacts and direct mortality. Here we analysed results from existing laboratory experiments to identify 2 thresholds; the lower threshold (T1) estimates the level at which lice loads cause systemic sub-lethal effects on smolts likely to impact performance, and the upper threshold (T2) identifies the lice load causing direct mortality. T1 is an empirical value based on a catalogue of lice impacts according to impact type (superficial or systemic) and concentration, converted from a range of experiments. The onset of these indicators of welfare and behavioural impacts indicates T1 ≈ 0.08 lice g-1 of host. T2 represents 50% probability of onset of mortality under laboratory conditions quantified using a dose-response curve based on data collated from studies where mortality has occurred or not at specified lice concentrations. T2 ≈ 0.24 lice g-1 with a bootstrapped 95% confidence interval between 0.1 and 0.67 lice g-1. These thresholds offer both an amending of the current approach to the management of lice concentrations on fish in the form of a sub-lethal welfare threshold and further evidence to support mortality-based lice thresholds already in use.
Histopathological Alterations in Ovarian and Uterine Treated with Extract and Fraction of Kebar Grass (Biophytum petersianum)
Authors: Herlina Nina
Published: February 2023

Kebar grass (Biophytum petersianum) is being used traditionally by the people of West Papua to increase fertility. The effects of extracts and fractions of Kebar grass on the estrus cycle duration and estrus phase in rats were evaluated. The present work was designed to investigate the effects of administration of kebar grass extract and its fraction on the histopathological changes in the ovaries and uterine of rats. The female rats were treated with carboxy methyl cellulose sodium (CMC sodium) 1 % (group I), ethynile estradiol (group II), extract kebar grass (group III),Â n-hexane fraction (group IV), ethyl acetate fraction (group V), and water fraction (group VI) of kebar grass via gavage daily for 7 days. At days 7th and 14th, 3 rats in each group were euthanized.Â Uterine and ovarian collected and weighed. Hematoxylin-Eosin staining and the paraffin technique were used for histological preparation. Data were analyzed by One Way ANOVA followed by the Duncan test. The Kebar grass has an effect to increase ovarian and uterine weight, increasing most of the number of follicles especially primary follicle and uterine thickness. The treatment with ethyl acetate fraction of kebar grass (group V) constantly showed more effective results than the other kebar grass treatment.
Formulation and Characterization of Transfersomal Containing Breadfruit Leaves (Artocarpus altilis (Park.) Fsb.) Ethanolic Extract
Authors: Apriani Elsa Fitria
Published: February 2023

Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis (Park.) Fsb.) leaves have anti-tyrosinase activity due to their flavonoid content. Anti-tyrosinase penetration is deep because the tyrosinase process occurs in the stratum basale. This study aimed to formulate and characterize the transfersomal containing breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis (Park.) Fsb.) leaves ethanolic extract with varying concentrations of Tween 80 and Phospholipon 90G. Breadfruit leaves were extracted using 96% ethanol and quantitative measures of flavonoid content. Breadfruit leaves extract was then formulated into transfersomes using the thin layer hydration method with a concentration ratio of Tween 80 and Phospholipon 90G, respectively, of 5:95; 10:90; 15:85; 20:80; and 25:75. The resulting transfersomes were then characterized by the value of entrapment efficiency (EE), polydispersity index, particle size, and zeta potential to determine the best formula. The %EE result for the 5th formula were 95.13%; 95.42%; 92.78%; 90.48%; and 87.58. The polydispersity result respectively were 0.232; 0.427; 0.236; 0.425; and 0.292. The particle sizes were 276.13 nm, 290.70nm, 222.13nm, 320.80nm, and 280.90 nm. Meanwhile, the zeta potential values respectively were -15.1; -18.2 mV; -20.5 mV; -36.9 mV; and -16.7mV. The concentrations of 20% Tween 80 and 80% Phospholipon 90G were chosen as the best formulas based on the results of their characterization. The best formula also showed a spherical morphology and was most stable with the lowest reduction of entrapment efficiency of 1.7416Â±0.2033%.
Dexamethasone and 5% NaCl Solution Induce Hypertension in Sparangue dawly Male Rats
Authors: Syafi'i Imam
Published: February 2023

High blood pressure can be caused by excess salt intake Dexamethasone is a potent anti-inflammatory drug, but the long-term administration can cause hypertension. This study aims to determine the accurate time and dose that cause hypertension in rat models by administration of a combination of dexamethasone and 5% NaCl solution. The control group was administrated with aquadest orally, 3 test groups were administrated with dexamethasone at a doses of 0.02mg/kg BW, 0.03mg/kg BW, and 0.5mg/kg BW intraperitonially (i.p) for 28 days. A 5% NaCl solution were administrated instead of drinking water to the test group. Blood pressure and body weight were measured weekly for 28 days. Results of the study show that Dexamethasone at a dose of 0.02mg/kg BW caused hypertension on day-28 where the rats blood pressure increase to 148mmHg/103mmHg (Â±1.9/Â±3.1) (P<0.05) compared to control rats and the weight decline by 90 grams. Dexamethasone 0.03mg/kg BW caused hypertension on day-21, with the increase of rats blood pressure at144mmHg/101mmHg (Â±2,6/Â±3.2) (P<0.05) compared to control and the weight decrease by 83 grams.Â Dexamethasone 0.5mg/kg BW caused hypertension on day-7, the rats blood pressure rise to 146mmHg/103mmHg (Â±1.6/1.9) (P<0.05) compared to control and the weight decrease by 69 grams. As conclusion, Dexamethasone at dose of 0.5mg/kg BW and NaCl 5% cause hypertension faster on day 14 compared to dexamethasone at dose of 0.02mg/kg BW and NaCl 5% which cause hypertension slower after 28 days of administration.
THE ART OF SURVIVING THE TRAVEL BUSINESS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Zain Mochammad Taufik Ramadhan
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has paralyzed all economic sectors, especially the tourism and travel business. Because this sector has close contact with humans and is completely contrary to government regulations during this pandemic. Therefore, companies need to issue management policies and strategies to maintain the continuity of this business. These policies and strategies include human resource management strategies, financial management, operational management, and business product innovation. This research was conducted on five tour and travel businesses in the city of Bandung. This research uses descriptive qualitative method. After researching, on average these five travelers implement new strategies, habits and innovations in their companies. Apart from that, it also discusses the marketing of the tour and travel business during the pandemic as well as in the future. The results of this study are that the five tour and travel businesses during this pandemic must continue to operate by implementing business strategies, marketing and also innovating with new types of tourism that have never been tried before, to make business turns that are not in line with their companies.
PARENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF SEX EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN IN PALUH MANIS VILLAGE, GEBANG DISTRICT, LANGKAT REGENCY
Authors: Sari Novita
Published: February 2023

This study aims to find out how parents view sex education in children in Paluh Manis Village, Gebang District, Langkat Regency. Sex education is important to give to children for the provision of their future life In qualitative research the research instrument is the person or human instrument, that is, the researcher himself. The informants used in this study, namely key informants, principal informants and auxiliary informants. The data collection techniques in this study, namely observation, interviews and documentation. Data analysis technique in this study using data validity techniques and data analysiss data. The results of the study found that sex education in children in the village can be said to be minimal. This is because some parents who live in the village still do not understand what is meant by sex education. The penelitian method used is a qualitative research method.
Diversity and Disconnection: Does an Online Setting Affect Student’s Understanding of Privilege, Oppression, and White Guilt?
Authors: McQueen Shannon
Published: February 2023

Should educators teach diversity courses in online formats? Courses covering sexism, racism, ethnocentrism, or homophobia are increasingly part of the curriculum requirements for college students. This study compares student surveys from six sections of the author’s introductory Diversity in Politics course; three of these sections are taught asynchronously online, and three are taught in a face-to-face setting. Results reveal no difference between online and face-to-face students’ understandings of privilege and oppression, sense of belonging, or white guilt. However, although all Republican students increased their understanding of privilege and oppression from this course, Republican students uniquely entered the course with less knowledge of oppression and experienced increased growth compared to their online counterparts. The importance of partisanship suggests a more student-centered approach can be valuable in determining the transmissibility of online diversity courses and provides evidence for a successful model for political science diversity courses in online and in-person spaces.
Effect of Potassium Source and Rate on Yield, Quality, and Tobacco-Specific Nitrosamines in Dark and Burley Tobacco
Authors: Keeney Andrea B. , Pearce Robert C. , Bailey William A.
Published: February 2023

Field trials were conducted in Princeton, Murray, and Lexington, KY in 2016–2018 to determine response of dark and burley tobacco to potassium source (potassium sulfate or potassium chloride) and potassium rate (0, 93, 186, or 279 kg K ha−1). Field sites that showed higher potential for potassium yield response were selected based on low soil test potassium levels from soil samples collected in early spring each year. All potassium applications were made between 1 and 10 days before transplanting. Significant yield responses to potassium were seen in 5 of 12 trials at sites that had initial soil test potassium levels of ≤150 kg K ha−1. Although cured leaf chloride levels were >1% on average where potassium chloride was used, negative effects on cured leaf moisture were only seen in 1 of 12 trials, and negative effects on quality grade index were not seen in any trial. The most consistent effect of potassium chloride application seen in this research was a 28% reduction in average total tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNA) compared to potassium sulfate application. These results showing lower TSNA from potassium chloride applications, along with minimal effects on moisture and quality grade index, may cause the tobacco industry to reconsider the long-standing preference for potassium sulfate as the potassium source for tobacco production.
Sustained-release losartan from peptide nanofibers promotes chondrogenesis
Authors: Yamaura Kohei , Sather Nicholas A. , Metlushko Anna , Nishimura Haruki , Pavlović Radoslav Z. , Hambright Sealy , Ravuri Sudheer K. , Philippon Marc J. , Stupp Samuel I. , Bahney Chelsea S. , Huard Johnny
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The central pathologic feature of osteoarthritis (OA) is the progressive loss of articular cartilage, which has a limited regenerative capacity. The TGF-β1 inhibitor, losartan, can improve cartilage repair by promoting hyaline rather that fibrous cartilage tissue regeneration. However, there are concerns about side effects associated with oral administration and short retention within the joint following intra-articular injections. To facilitate local and sustained intra-articular losartan delivery we have designed an injectable peptide amphiphile (PA) nanofiber that binds losartan. The aims of this study are to characterize the release kinetics of losartan from two different PA nanofiber compositions followed by testing pro-regenerative bioactivity on chondrocytes.

Methods: We tested the impact of electrostatic interactions on nanostructure morphology and release kinetics of the negatively charged losartan molecule from either a positively or negatively charged PA nanofiber. Subsequently, cytotoxicity and bioactivity were evaluated in vitro in both normal and an IL-1β-induced OA chondrocyte model using ATDC5.

Results: Both nanofiber systems promoted cell proliferation but that the positively-charged nanofibers also significantly increased glycosaminoglycans production. Furthermore, gene expression analysis suggested that losartan-encapsulated nanofibers had significant anti-inflammatory, anti-degenerative, and cartilage regenerative effects by significantly blocking TGF-β1 in this in vitro system.

Discussion: The results of this study demonstrated that positively charged losartan sustained-release nanofibers may be a novel and useful treatment for cartilage regeneration and OA by blocking TGF-β1.
MSC-Exos: Important active factor of bone regeneration
Authors: Ren Sihang , Lin Yuyang , Liu Wenyue , Yang Liqun , Zhao Muxin
Published: February 2023

Bone defect and repair is a common but difficult problem in restorative and reconstructive surgery. Bone tissue defects of different sizes caused by different reasons bring functional limitations and cosmetic deformities to patients. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), a major hotspot in the field of regeneration in recent years, have been widely used in various studies on bone tissue regeneration. Numerous studies have shown that the bone regenerative effects of MSC can be achieved through exosome-delivered messages. Although its osteogenic mechanism is still unclear, it is clear that MSC-Exos can directly or indirectly support the action of bone regeneration. It can act directly on various cells associated with osteogenesis, or by carrying substances that affect cellular activators or the local internal environment in target cells, or it can achieve activation of the osteogenic framework by binding to materials. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the types and content of effective contents of MSC-Exos in bone regeneration, as well as recent advances in the currently commonly used methods to enable the binding of MSC-Exos to the framework and to conclude that MSC-Exos is effective in promoting osteogenesis.
The paradigm of intracellular parasite survival and drug resistance in leishmanial parasite through genome plasticity and epigenetics: Perception and future perspective
Authors: Kamran Mohd. , Bhattacharjee Rahul , Das Sonali , Mukherjee Sohitri , Ali Nahid
Published: February 2023

Leishmania is an intracellular, zoonotic, kinetoplastid eukaryote with more than 1.2 million cases all over the world. The leishmanial chromosomes are divided into polymorphic chromosomal ends, conserved central domains, and antigen-encoding genes found in telomere-proximal regions. The genome flexibility of chromosomal ends of the leishmanial parasite is known to cause drug resistance and intracellular survival through the evasion of host defense mechanisms. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the plasticity of Leishmania genome organization which is the primary cause of drug resistance and parasite survival. Moreover, we have not only elucidated the causes of such genome plasticity which includes aneuploidy, epigenetic factors, copy number variation (CNV), and post-translation modification (PTM) but also highlighted their impact on drug resistance and parasite survival.
Empagliflozin suppresses mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and mitigates the inducibility of atrial fibrillation in diabetic rats
Authors: Koizumi Takuya , Watanabe Masaya , Yokota Takashi , Tsuda Masumi , Handa Haruka , Koya Jiro , Nishino Kotaro , Tatsuta Daishiro , Natsui Hiroyuki , Kadosaka Takahide , Koya Taro , Nakao Motoki , Hagiwara Hikaru , Kamada Rui , Temma Taro , Tanaka Shinya , Anzai Toshihisa
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Recent studies have demonstrated that sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2-i) reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), in which oxidative stress due to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributes to the pathogenesis of AF. We aimed to further investigate this, and examine whether the SGLT2-i empagliflozin suppresses mitochondrial-ROS generation and mitigates fibrosis.

Methods

A high-fat diet and low-dose streptozotocin treatment were used to induce type-2 DM (T2DM) in Sprague-Dawley rats. The rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, DM, and DM treated with empagliflozin (30 mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks. The mitochondrial respiratory capacity and ROS generation in the atrial myocardium were measured using a high-resolution respirometer. Oxidative stress markers and protein expression related to mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics as well as the mitochondrial morphology were examined in the atrial tissue. Additionally, mitochondrial function was examined in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA) inducibility, interatrial conduction time (IACT), and fibrosis were also measured.

Results

Inducibility of ATA, fibrosis, and IACT were increased in rats with DM when compared to controls, all of which were restored by empagliflozin treatment. In addition, the rats with DM had increased mitochondrial-ROS with an impaired complex I-linked oxidative phosphorylation capacity. Importantly, empagliflozin seemed to ameliorate these impairments in mitochondrial function. Furthermore, empagliflozin reversed the decrease in phosphorylated AMPK expression and altered protein levels related to mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics, and increased mitochondrial content. Empagliflozin also improved mitochondrial function in H9c2 cells cultured with high glucose medium.

Discussion

These data suggest that empagliflozin has a cardioprotective effect, at least in part, by reducing mitochondrial ROS generation through AMPK signaling pathways in the atrium of diabetic rats. This suggests that empagliflozin might suppress the development of AF in T2DM.
Causal associations between dried fruit intake and cardiovascular disease: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zeng Youjie , Cao Si , Yang Heng
Published: February 2023

Background

Previous studies have shown controversy about whether dried fruit intake is associated with cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to examine the potential causal effect of dried fruit intake on cardiovascular disease by conducting a two-sample Mendelian randomization study.

Methods

We used genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics for MR analysis to explore the causal association of dried fruit intake with CVD. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the main analytical method for MR analysis. In addition, the MR-Egger method and the weighted median method were applied to supplement the IVW method. Furthermore, Cochrane’s Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO global test, and leave-one-out analysis were used to perform sensitivity analysis.

Results

The results from the IVW analysis indicated that dried fruit intake could reduce the risk of heart failure [odds ratio (OR) = 0.6014, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.4243–0.8522, p-value = 0.0043], total ischemic stroke (OR = 0.4547, 95% CI: 0.2950–0.7010, p-value = 0.0004), and small vessel stroke (OR = 0.3499, 95% CI: 0.1466–0.8349, p-value = 0.0180). In addition, the results of two additional methods (MR Egger and Weighted median) were parallel to the effects estimated by IVW. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis illustrates that our MR analysis was unaffected by heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. Finally, the results of the leave-one-out method showed the robustness of our MR results.

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence for the benefits of dried fruit intake on CVD. Therefore a reasonable consumption of dried fruit may provide primary prevention.
A novel loss-of-function mutation in NRAP is associated with left ventricular non-compaction cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhang Zhongman , Xu Kangkang , Ji Lianfu , Zhang Han , Yin Jie , Zhou Ming , Wang Chunli , Yang Shiwei
Published: February 2023

Background

The nebulin-related-anchoring protein (NRAP) gene encodes actin-associated ankyrin. Few studies reported the association of the NRAP gene with cardiomyopathy. Thus, the genetic role of this gene in cardiomyopathy remains to be investigated.

Methods

The clinical data of the rare case of left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) were collected and analyzed. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on related family members. Western blot was used to detect the effect of mutation on the NRAP protein expression. The effect of the c.259delC variant on myocardial development was further evaluated in a zebrafish model.

Results

A novel homozygous frameshift mutation c.259delC of NRAP was found in the proband with LVNC. It was found that c.259delC decreased the expression of NRAP by Western blot. In the zebrafish model, the heart development was affected while knocking out the NRAP gene, which showed pericardial edema. The pathological manifestations were uneven hypertrophy, disordered arrangement of cardiomyocytes, enlarged intercellular space, and loose muscle fibers. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) showed that the expression of genes related to heart development decreased significantly, and the NRAP gene mutation could participate in biological processes (BPs) such as myocardial contraction, cell adhesion, myosin coarse filament assembly of striated muscle, myosin complex composition, and muscle α-actin binding.

Conclusion

We identified a rare case of LVNC associated with a novel homozygous NRAP frameshift variant. This study further strengthened the evidence linking mutations in the NRAP gene with LVNC, providing a new clue for further study of LVNC. NRAP may be one of the pathogenic genes of cardiomyopathy.
Early rhythm control vs. rate control in atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Han Shaojie , Jia Ruikun , Cen Zhifu , Guo Ran , Zhao Shenyu , Bai Yixuan , Xie Min , Cui Kaijun
Published: February 2023

Objective

It has long been debated whether rhythm control vs. rate control strategies have differing effects on mortality and morbidity for atrial fibrillation (AF). Recently, several randomized controlled studies (RCTs) and observational trials described that an early rhythm management method was linked to a lower likelihood of negative clinical outcomes in individuals with AF. We wanted to see if an early rhythm management method may help patients with AF.

Methods

We performed a systematic search to retrieve studies assessing the outcomes of early rhythm control vs. rate control in AF by using PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase published between 01/01/2000 and 15/04/2022.

Results

Finally, two RCTs, one retrospective analysis of RCTs, and four observational studies were identified. Compared with rate control, early rhythm control has been linked to lower all-cause mortality. [risk ratio (RR), 0.76; 95% CI 0.69–0.83; P < 0.00001; I2 = 77%]. The early rhythm control group was also associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular mortality (RR, 0.68; 95% CI 0.63–0.74; P < 0.00001; I2 = 33), stroke (RR, 0.77; 95% CI 0.67–0.87; P < 0.001; I2 = 64), and heart failure hospitalization (RR, 0.74; 95% CI 0.59–0.93; P = 0.0009; I2 = 93%). We found no significant difference in nights spent in hospital per year, acute coronary syndrome, major bleeding, and cardiac arrest/ventricular arrhythmia between the groups.

Conclusion

In this meta-analysis, early rhythm therapy was linked to a lower risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, stroke, and heart failure hospitalization compared with the rate control group.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022333592.
Mid-cretaceous rapid denudation of Eastern Tibetan plateau: Insights from detrital records at the Southwestern corner of Sichuan basin
Authors: Wang Zijian , Li Zhiwu , Ran Bo , Liu Shugen , Wu Wenhui , Ye Yuehao , Tong Kui , Hua Tian , Li Jinxi
Published: February 2023

Reconstruction of the Cretaceous tectonic evolution of the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau is of great significance to understanding the formation and early evolution of the Tibetan Plateau. The thick late Mesozoic sedimentary sequence in the Western Sichuan Basin may record the evolution of the basin itself and the tectonic uplift history of the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau during the Cretaceous period. Here we provide new multi-proxy provenance data from conglomerate clast populations, sandstone petrography, heavy mineral assemblages, U-Pb dating of detrital zircon, paleocurrent data, and detrital garnet geochemistry from the Cretaceous clastic units in the southwest corner of Sichuan Basin. Our analysis reveals two distinct changes in sediment provenance recorded in the Cretaceous strata at the southwest corner of the Sichuan Basin. The first significant change of detrital provenance was identified in the mid-Cretaceous Jiaguan Formation. Metamorphic rocks and volcanic rocks clast, as well as feldspar and mica, increased significantly, a heavy mineral assemblage dominated by hematite–limonite and ilmenite with high ATi and RuZi and low ZTR values, predominantly type Bi garnet and mostly 164 Ma, 207 Ma, 440 Ma, 780 Ma–824 Ma, and 1840 Ma detrital zircon ages, interpreted to be sourced from the Songpan-Ganzi fold belt and Longmenshan orogenic belt. The second shift, in the Guankou Formation, is marked by a low compositional maturity, a distinct increase in fossiliferous carbonate clasts and high GZi index with type Bii garnet, and Triassic zircon ages, indicating the exhumation of Longmenshan orogenic belt during the late Cretaceous. These data collectively indicate that the significant surface uplift and rapid denudation of the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau were probably initiated in the mid-Cretaceous (∼120 Ma). In conclusion, a detailed hands-on provenance analysis of the clastic sedimentary sequences in the southwest corner of the Sichuan Basin enabled us to determine catchment areas and shifts hitherto unstudied, thus contributing to the exhumation history of the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau.
Lacking measurement invariance in research self-efficacy: Bug or feature?
Authors: Klieme Katrin Ellen , Schmidt-Borcherding Florian
Published: February 2023

Psychological factors play an important role in higher education. With respect to students' understanding of scientific research methods, research self-efficacy (RSE) has been studied as a core construct. However, findings on antecedents and outcomes of RSE are oftentimes heterogeneous regarding both its theoretical and empirical structures. The present study helps disentangle these findings by (a) establishing and validating an integrated, multi-dimensional assessment of RSE and (b) introducing a developmental perspective on RSE by testing the impact of the disciplinary context and academic seniority on both mean level and latent structure of RSE. The construct validity of the new measure was supported based on RSE assessments of 554 German psychology and educational science students. Relations to convergent and discriminant measures were as expected. Measurement invariance and LSEM analyses revealed significant differences in latent model parameters between most sub-groups of training level and disciplinary context. We discuss our findings of measurement non-invariance as a feature rather than a bug by stressing a process-oriented perspective on RSE. In this regard, we conclude potential future directions of research and RSE theory development, alongside implications for methods education practice in higher education.
A novel role for Teneurin C-terminal Associated Peptide (TCAP) in the regulation of cardiac activity in the Sydney rock oyster, Saccostrea glomerata
Authors: Abramov Tomer , Suwansa-ard Saowaros , da Silva Patricia Mirella , Wang Tianfang , Dove Michael , O’Connor Wayne , Parker Laura , Russell Fraser D. , Lovejoy David A. , Cummins Scott F. , Elizur Abigail
Published: February 2023

Teneurin C-terminal associated peptide (TCAP) is an ancient bioactive peptide that is highly conserved in metazoans. TCAP administration reduces cellular and behavioural stress in vertebrate and urochordate models, yet despite numerous studies in higher animals, there is limited knowledge of its role in invertebrates. In particular, there are no studies on TCAP’s effects on the heart of any metazoan, which is a critical organ in the stress response. We used the Sydney rock oyster (SRO) as an invertebrate model to investigate a potential role for sroTCAP in regulating cardiac activity, including during stress. sroTCAP is localized to the neural innervation network of the SRO heart, and suggested binding with various heart proteins related to metabolism and stress, including SOD, GAPDH and metabotropic glutamate receptor. Intramuscular injection of sroTCAP (10 pmol) significantly altered the expression of heart genes that are known to regulate remodelling processes under different conditions, and modulated several gene families responsible for stress mitigation. sroTCAP (1 and 10 pmol) was shown to cause transient bradycardia (heart rate was reduced by up to 63% and for up to 40 min post-administration), indicative of an unstressed state. In summary, this study has established a role for a TCAP in the regulation of cardiac activity through modulation of physiological and molecular components associated with energy conservation, stress and adaptation. This represents a novel function for TCAP and may have implications for higher-order metazoans.
The prevalence of diabetes and thyroid related autoantibodies in Sri Lankan children with type 1 diabetes and their unaffected siblings – The utility of a new screening assay
Authors: Atapattu Navoda , Amoroso Marie , Powell Michael , de Silva D. G. Harendra , de Silva K. Shamya H. , Furmaniak Jadwiga , Rees Smith Bernard , Premawardhana Lakdasa D.
Published: February 2023

Background

There is limited information about diabetes and thyroid related autoantibodies in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) or their siblings in Sri Lanka.

Objectives

To assess in T1D children and their unaffected siblings the prevalence of autoantibodies to (1) glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADA), insulinoma associated antigen-2 (IA-2A) and zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8A) using 3 Screen ICA™ (3-Screen) and individual ELISA assays; (2) insulin (IAA); and (3) thyroid peroxidase (TPOA), thyroglobulin (TgA) and the TSH receptor (TSHRA).

Methods

We selected - (a) consecutive T1D children, and (b) their unaffected siblings of both sexes, from the T1D Registry at Lady Ridgeway Hospital, Colombo.

Results

The median age (IQR) of 235 T1D children and 252 unaffected siblings was 11 (8.4, 13.2) and 9 (5.4, 14.9) years respectively, and the duration of T1D was 23 (7, 54) months. (1) T1D children (a) 79.1% were 3-Screen positive; (b) all 3-Screen positives were individual antibody positive (GADA in 74%; IA-2A 31.1%; ZnT8A 38.7%); (c) and were younger (p=0.01 vs 3-Screen negatives); (d) multiple autoantibodies were present in 45.1%; (e) IA-2A (p=0.002) and ZnT8A (p=0.006) prevalence decreased with T1D duration. (f) TPOA and TgA prevalence was higher in T1D children compared to unaffected siblings (28%, p=0.001 and 31%, p=0.004, respectively). (2) Unaffected siblings (a) 6.3% were 3-Screen positive (p=0.001 vs T1D), and 2.4% were positive for IAA; (b) four subjects had two diabetes related autoantibodies, one of whom developed dysglycaemia during follow-up.

Conclusions

The 3-Screen assay, used for the first time in Sri Lankan T1D children and their siblings as a screening tool, shows a high prevalence of T1D related Abs with a high correlation with individual assays, and is also a helpful tool in screening unaffected siblings for future T1D risk. The higher prevalence of thyroid autoantibodies in T1D children is consistent with polyglandular autoimmunity.