bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pemahaman Konsep Dasar Matematika Mahasiswa di Wilayah Perbatasan Indonesia – Malaysia: Bagaimana Tantangannya?
Authors: Didik Saputro Totok Victor , Purnasari Pebria Dheni , Sadewo Yosua Damas
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pemahaman konsep dasar matematika mahasiswa di wilayah perbatasan Indonesia – Malaysia. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Subjek penelitian ini merupakan 64 mahasiswa program studi Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar pada perguruan tinggi swasta yang berada di Kabupaten Bengkayang, Kalimantan Barat, Indonesia, tepatnya di wilayah perbatasan Indonesia – Malaysia. Tahapan penelitian ini meliputi 1) penyiapan instrumen penelitian; 2) validasi instrumen penelitian; 3) pembelajaran di kelas; 4) pengambilan data penelitian; dan 5) analisis data. Data dikumpulkan melalui instrumen tes yang berkaitan dengan kemampuan pemahaman konsep dasar matematika mahasiswa sebanyak 5 butir soal yang berbentuk esai. Data hasil penelitian dianalisis menggunakan analisis statistika yaitu analisis statistik deskriptif. Hasil penelitian ini memuat 3 aspek yang terdiri dari 1) pemahaman Konsep dasar matematika mahasiswa dikaji dari pengetahuan faktual, pengetahuan konseptual, dan pengetahuan prosedural; 2) kesulitan mahasiswa dalam memahami Konsep dasar matematika yang memuat proses memahami permasalahan, menggunakan bilangan matematika, mengimplementasikan strategi penyelesaian masalah, dan menginterpretasikan hasil pemecahan masalah; dan 3) kesiapan dan tantangan sebagai calon guru sekolah dasar dalam memberikan pembelajaran matematika di sekolah dasar.
Pengembangan LKPD Materi Harga Jual dan Harga Beli dengan Konteks Islami Untuk Mengetahui Hasil Belajar Peserta Didik
Authors: Nizar Harisman
Published: November 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menghasilkan LKPD Materi Harga Jual dan Harga Beli dengan Konteks Islami yang valid, praktis dan memiliki efek potensial terhadap hasil belajar. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan adalah Design Research tipe Development Study. Metode penelitian pengembangan yang terdiri dari dua tahapan yaitu preliminary (tahap persiapan atau pendesainan) dan tahap prototyping menggunakan alur formative evaluation yang terdiri dari tahap self evaluation, expert review, one-to-one, small group, dan field test. Subjek penelitian ini adalah peserta didik kelas VII salah satu SMP IT di Palembang, Sumatera Selatan. Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah observasi, wawancara dan tes. Penelitian ini telah menghasilkan LKPD LKPD Materi Harga Jual dan Harga Beli dengan Konteks Islami yang valid dilihat dari komentar dan saran dari validator melalui lembar validasi. Kemudian menghasilkan LKPD Materi Harga Jual dan Harga Beli dengan Konteks Islami yang praktis dengan melihat lembar komentar dan saran peserta didik pada tahap one-to-one, small group, dan field test. Kemudian telah menghasilkan LKPD Materi Harga Jual dan Harga Beli dengan Konteks Islami yang terdapat efek potensialnya terhadap hasil belajar peserta didik.
Mending a broken heart by biomimetic 3D printed natural biomaterial-based cardiac patches: a review
Authors: Rosellini Elisabetta , Cascone Maria Grazia , Guidi Lorenzo , Schubert Dirk W. , Roether Judith A. , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: November 2023

Myocardial infarction is one of the major causes of mortality as well as morbidity around the world. Currently available treatment options face a number of drawbacks, hence cardiac tissue engineering, which aims to bioengineer functional cardiac tissue, for application in tissue repair, patient specific drug screening and disease modeling, is being explored as a viable alternative. To achieve this, an appropriate combination of cells, biomimetic scaffolds mimicking the structure and function of the native tissue, and signals, is necessary. Among scaffold fabrication techniques, three-dimensional printing, which is an additive manufacturing technique that enables to translate computer-aided designs into 3D objects, has emerged as a promising technique to develop cardiac patches with a highly defined architecture. As a further step toward the replication of complex tissues, such as cardiac tissue, more recently 3D bioprinting has emerged as a cutting-edge technology to print not only biomaterials, but also multiple cell types simultaneously. In terms of bioinks, biomaterials isolated from natural sources are advantageous, as they can provide exceptional biocompatibility and bioactivity, thus promoting desired cell responses. An ideal biomimetic cardiac patch should incorporate additional functional properties, which can be achieved by means of appropriate functionalization strategies. These are essential to replicate the native tissue, such as the release of biochemical signals, immunomodulatory properties, conductivity, enhanced vascularization and shape memory effects. The aim of the review is to present an overview of the current state of the art regarding the development of biomimetic 3D printed natural biomaterial-based cardiac patches, describing the 3D printing fabrication methods, the natural-biomaterial based bioinks, the functionalization strategies, as well as the in vitro and in vivo applications.
Tetraploid embryo aggregation produces high-quality blastocysts with an increased trophectoderm in pigs
Authors: Lee Joohyeong , Cai Lian , Kim Mirae , Choi Hyerin , Oh Dongjin , Jawad Ali , Lee Eunsong , Hyun Sang-Hwan
Published: November 2023

Tetraploid complementation is an ideal method for demonstrating the differentiation potential of pluripotent stem cells. In this study, we selected the most efficient tetraploid production method for porcine embryos and investigated whether tetraploid blastomere aggregation could enhance the quality of tetraploid embryos. Three methods were investigated to produce tetraploid embryos: First, tetraploid embryos were produced using electro-fusion of two-cell stage parthenogenetic blastomere (FUTP). Second, somatic cell was injected into the mature oocyte and fused to produce tetraploid embryos. Third, oocytes were matured with Cytochalasin B (CB) for the late 22 h of in vitro maturation to inhibit the first polar body (PB1). Following that, non-PB1 oocytes were treated with CB for 4 h after parthenogenetic activation. There was no significant difference in the blastocyst development rate and tetraploid production rate of the embryos produced through the three methods. However, FUTP-derived blastocysts had a significantly lower percentage of apoptotic cells compared to other methods. The developmental competence of embryos, expression of trophectoderm cell marker genes, and distribution of YAP1 protein were investigated in tetraploid embryos produced using the FUTP method. The FUTP method most effectively prevented apoptosis during porcine tetraploid embryo formation. Tetraploid aggregation-derived blastocysts have a high proportion of trophectoderm with increased expression of the CDX2 mRNA and high YAP1 intensity. High-quality blastocysts derived from a tetraploid embryo aggregation can serve as suitable source material for testing the differentiation potential of pluripotent stem cells for blastocyst complementation in pigs.
Signaling pathways in hair aging
Authors: Liang Aishi , Fang Yingshan , Ye Lan , Meng Jianda , Wang Xusheng , Chen Jinsong , Xu Xuejuan
Published: November 2023

Hair follicle (HF) homeostasis is regulated by various signaling pathways. Disruption of such homeostasis leads to HF disorders, such as alopecia, pigment loss, and hair aging, which is causing severe health problems and aesthetic concerns. Among these disorders, hair aging is characterized by hair graying, hair loss, hair follicle miniaturization (HFM), and structural changes to the hair shaft. Hair aging occurs under physiological conditions, while premature hair aging is often associated with certain pathological conditions. Numerous investigations have been made to determine the mechanisms and explore treatments to prevent hair aging. The most well-known hypotheses about hair aging include oxidative stress, hormonal disorders, inflammation, as well as DNA damage and repair defects. Ultimately, these factors pose threats to HF cells, especially stem cells such as hair follicle stem cells, melanocyte stem cells, and mesenchymal stem cells, which hamper hair regeneration and pigmentation. Here, we summarize previous studies investigating the above mechanisms and the existing therapeutic methods for hair aging. We also provide insights into hair aging research and discuss the limitations and outlook.
High oral carriage of multidrug resistant Gram-negative bacilli in adolescents: the SOPKARD-Junior study
Authors: Katkowska Marta , Garbacz Katarzyna , Kwapisz Ewa , Suligowska Klaudia , Kusiak Aida , Cichońska Dominika , Świetlik Dariusz
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The colonization of the oral cavity by potentially pathogenic antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in adolescents and its consequences is very poorly understood. The present study focused on the occurrence of oral colonization by Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) and their multidrug resistance, including the production of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and carbapenemases, among healthy adolescents and risk factors associated with GNB colonization.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted as part of “A program for the early detection of risk factors for lifestyle diseases SOPKARD-Junior” (SOPKARD-Junior). Oral samples were collected from 182 adolescents from four public elementary schools in Sopot, Poland, aged 13-14 years. Bacterial strains were identified by the MALDI-TOF MS method. Screening of antimicrobial resistance was performed using a disk diffusion method. The NG-Test® CARBA-5 was used to detect and differentiate the five most widely distributed carbapenemases. Demographic and clinical data were collected and statistical analysis of risk factors was performed.

Results

A total of 68 out of 182 (37.4%) healthy adolescents was documented oral colonization with Gram-negative bacilli, including 50/182 (27.5%) multidrug resistant (MDR-GNB) strains. Over 60% of oral carriage concerned three main genera Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Serratia spp., which were detected in 22.1%, 19.1%, and 19.1% of participants, respectively. Citrobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Hafnia spp., Aeromonas spp., Acinetobacter spp., and Stenotrophomonas spp. were also isolated. The antimicrobial resistance to ampicillin (100%), ceftazidime (69.1%), meropenem (60.3%), gentamycin (60.3%), piperacillin/tazobactam (52.9%), and piperacillin (45.6%) were the most common. Among 73.5% GNB strains multidrug resistance was observed, including all Pseudomonas spp. strains. Among MDR-GNB, 30.4% were resistant to four groups of antibiotics, half of the MDR Pseudomonas spp. strains were resistant to 10 groups of antibiotics. Extended-spectrum β-lactamases were produced by Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella spp., and Serratia spp. (7.4%). Colonization by ESBLs-positive GNB strains was significantly associated with recurrent respiratory infections, nasal congestion, and bronchitis (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Our study revealed high oral carriage of multi-drug resistant Gram-negative bacilli in healthy adolescents and the association of ESBL-producing strains with respiratory infections. Further studies on oral colonization with GNB are necessary due to the possibility of distinct infections and the acquisition of antibiotic resistance by resident microbiota.
Adolescents and the dark side of social media—Law enforcement perspectives
Authors: Äijälä Juho , Riikonen Reetta , Huhtinen Aki-Mauri , Sederholm Teija
Published: November 2023

Adolescents are the most active user group of social media sites. Due to being in a phase of both biological and psychological development, they may be particularly vulnerable to the darker side of social media, such as its illegal aspects or coordinated information influencing. With this research, we aimed to identify threats Finnish adolescents face on social media from a law-enforcement perspective. To reach this goal, we performed semi-structured interviews with police officers from Finnish preventive measures police units. To identify and structure threats that adolescents face, we employed a twofold analysis. In the first part, we conducted inductive content analysis, which revealed three primary threats: polarization, disinformation, and social media as a pathway to illegal activities. In the second part, we employed the Honeycomb-model of social media functionality as a classificatory device for structuring these threats. Our findings provide explorative insights into the threats social media might present to adolescents from the point of view of the Finnish law-enforcement system.
Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors M2 are upregulated in the atrioventricular nodal tract in horses with a high burden of second-degree atrioventricular block
Authors: Nissen Sarah Dalgas , Saljic Arnela , Carstensen Helena , Braunstein Thomas Hartig , Hesselkilde Eva Melis , Kjeldsen Sofie Troest , Hopster-Iversen Charlotte , D’Souza Alicia , Jespersen Thomas , Buhl Rikke
Published: November 2023

Background

Second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block at rest is very common in horses. The underlying molecular mechanisms are unexplored, but commonly attributed to high vagal tone.

Aim

To assess whether AV block in horses is due to altered expression of the effectors of vagal signalling in the AV node, with specific emphasis on the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M2) and the G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK4) channel that mediates the cardiac IK,ACh current.

Method

Eighteen horses with a low burden of second-degree AV block (median 8 block per 20 h, IQR: 32 per 20 h) were assigned to the control group, while 17 horses with a high burden of second-degree AV block (median: 408 block per 20 h, IQR: 1,436 per 20 h) were assigned to the AV block group. Radiotelemetry ECG recordings were performed to assess PR interval and incidence of second-degree AV block episodes at baseline and on pharmacological blockade of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Wenckebach cycle length was measured by intracardiac pacing (n = 16). Furthermore, the expression levels of the M2 receptor and the GIRK4 subunit of the IKACh channel were quantified in biopsies from the right atrium, the AV node and right ventricle using immunohistochemistry and machine learning-based automated segmentation analysis (n = 9 + 9).

Results

The AV block group had a significantly longer PR interval (mean ± SD, 0.40 ± 0.05 s; p < 0.001) and a longer Wenckebach cycle length (mean ± SD, 995 ± 86 ms; p = 0.007) at baseline. After blocking the ANS, all second-degree AV block episodes were abolished, and the difference in PR interval disappered (p = 0.80). The AV block group had significantly higher expression of the M2 receptor (p = 0.02), but not the GIRK4 (p = 0.25) in the AV node compared to the control group. Both M2 and GIRK4 were highly expressed in the AV node and less expressed in the atria and the ventricles.

Conclusion

Here, we demonstrate the involvement of the m2R-IK,ACh pathway in underlying second-degree AV block in horses. The high expression level of the M2 receptor may be responsible for the high burden of second-degree AV blocks seen in some horses.
Bibliometric and visual analysis of intraoperative hypotension from 2004 to 2022
Authors: Wang Jieyan , Liu Zile , Bai Yawen , Tian Guijie , Hong Yinghao , Chen Guo , Wan Yantong , Liang Hui
Published: November 2023

Background

Intraoperative hypotension (IOH) is a common complication occurring in surgical practice. This study aims to comprehensively review the collaboration and impact of countries, institutions, authors, journals, keywords, and critical papers on intraoperative hypotension from the perspective of bibliometric, and to evaluate the evolution of knowledge structure clustering and identify research hotspots and emerging topics.

Methods

Articles and reviews related to IOH published from 2004 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. Bibliometric analyses and visualization were conducted on Excel, CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrix (R-Tool of R-Studio).

Results

A total of 1,784 articles and reviews were included from 2004 to 2022. The number of articles on IOH gradually increased in the past few years, and peaked in 2021. These publications were chiefly from 1,938 institutions in 40 countries, led by America and China in publications. Sessler Daniel I published the most papers and enjoyed the highest number of citations. Analysis of the journals with the most outputs showed that most journals concentrated on perioperative medicine and clinical anesthesiology. Delirium, acute kidney injury and vasoconstrictor agents are the current and developing research hotspots. The keywords “Acute kidney injury”, “postoperative complication”, “machine learning”, “risk factors” and “hemodynamic instability” may also become new trends and focuses of the near future research.

Conclusion

This study uses bibliometrics and visualization methods to comprehensively review the research on intraoperative hypotension, which is helpful for scholars to better understand the dynamic evolution of IOH and provide directions for future research.
Blood pressure variability, nocturnal heart rate variability and endothelial function predict recurrent cerebro-cardiovascular events following ischemic stroke
Authors: Filchenko Irina , Mürner Nicolas , Dekkers Martijn P. J. , Baillieul Sebastien , Duss Simone B. , Brill Anne-Kathrin , Horvath Thomas , Heldner Mirjam R. , Rexhaj Emrush , Bernasconi Corrado , Bassetti Claudio L. A. , Schmidt Markus H.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Cardiovascular parameters characterizing blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), endothelial function and arterial stiffness predict cerebro-cardiovascular events (CCVE) in the general population. Considering the paucity of data in stroke patients, we assessed these parameters as potential predictors of recurrent CCVE at acute stroke stroke.

Patients and methods

This is a secondary outcome analysis of a prospective observational longitudinal Sleep Deficiency & Stroke Outcome Study (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02559739). The study consecutively recruited acute ischemic stroke patients. Cardiovascular parameters (blood pressure variability [BPV], heart rate variability [HRV], endothelial function, and arterial stiffness) were assessed within the first week post-stroke. Future CCVE were recorded over a 3-year follow-up. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to investigate the prognostic value of 48 cardiovascular parameters regarding CCVE risk.

Results

Out of 447 recruited patients, 359 were included in this analysis. 20% of patients developed a future CCVE. A high variability of systolic BP (n = 333) and nocturnal HR (non-linear parameters; n = 187) at acute stroke predicted CCVE risk after adjustment for demographic parameters, cardiovascular risk factors and mean BP or HR, respectively. Endothelial dysfunction (n = 105) at acute stroke predicted CCVE risk after adjustment for age and sex, but not after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors. Diurnal HR and arterial stiffness at acute stroke were not associated with CCVE risk.

Conclusion

High blood pressure variability, high nocturnal HRV and endothelial function contribute to the risk for future CCVE after stroke.
Multi-Objective artificial bee colony optimized hybrid deep belief network and XGBoost algorithm for heart disease prediction
Authors: Kalita Kanak , Ganesh Narayanan , Jayalakshmi Sambandam , Chohan Jasgurpreet Singh , Mallik Saurav , Qin Hong
Published: November 2023

The global rise in heart disease necessitates precise prediction tools to assess individual risk levels. This paper introduces a novel Multi-Objective Artificial Bee Colony Optimized Hybrid Deep Belief Network and XGBoost (HDBN-XG) algorithm, enhancing coronary heart disease prediction accuracy. Key physiological data, including Electrocardiogram (ECG) readings and blood volume measurements, are analyzed. The HDBN-XG algorithm assesses data quality, normalizes using z-score values, extracts features via the Computational Rough Set method, and constructs feature subsets using the Multi-Objective Artificial Bee Colony approach. Our findings indicate that the HDBN-XG algorithm achieves an accuracy of 99%, precision of 95%, specificity of 98%, sensitivity of 97%, and F1-measure of 96%, outperforming existing classifiers. This paper contributes to predictive analytics by offering a data-driven approach to healthcare, providing insights to mitigate the global impact of coronary heart disease.
Immunohistochemistry-derived subtypes of breast cancer distribution in four regions of Ethiopia
Authors: Belachew Esmael Besufikad , Desta Adey Feleke , Gebremariam Tewodros Yalew , Deneke Dinikisira Bekele , Ashenafi Senait , Yeshi Melisachew Mulatu , Fenta Bizunesh Dires , Alem Alemwosen T/Hayimanot , Alemu Addisu , Abafogi Abdo Kedir , Desta Tigist , Chanyalew Menberework , Beshah Daniel , Taylor Lesley , Bauer Marcus , Tsehay Dareskedar , Girma Selfu , Melka Daniel Seifu , Tessema Tesfaye Sisay , Kantelhardt Eva J. , Howe Rawleigh
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Different biological characteristics, therapeutic responses, and disease-specific outcomes are associated with different molecular subtypes of breast cancer (BC). Although there have been different studies on BC in the Ethiopian capital city of Addis Ababa, there have been few studies in other parts of the nation, and none have evaluated biological characteristics in other locations in the context of the extensive ethnic and genetic diversity found in Ethiopia. This study was carried out to evaluate the distribution of immunohistochemistry (IHC) subtypes of BCs throughout four Ethiopian regions.

Methods

A total of 227 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks were collected from tertiary hospitals in four Ethiopian regions between 2015 and 2021. The IHC staining was performed for subtyping, ER, PR, HER2, and Ki-67 proliferation markers.

Results

The mean age at diagnosis was 43.9 years. The percentage of ER and PR-negative tumors were 48.3% and 53.2%, respectively. The IHC subtypes showed the following distribution: 33.1% triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), 27.6% luminal B, 25.2% luminal A, and 14.1% HER2 enriched. In multiple logistic regression analysis, grade III and HER2 positivity were associated with larger tumor size, and also originating from Jimma compared to Mekele.

Conclusion

Patients with ER-negative, PR-negative, and TNBC were found in 48.3%, 53.2%, and 33.1% of cases, respectively, showing that half the patients could potentially benefit from endocrine treatment. A considerably high prevalence of TNBC was reported in our study, demanding additional research that includes genetic predisposition factors. Additionally, aggressive tumors were found in a high percentage of younger age groups, which must be considered when planning personalized treatment strategies.
Experimental study on impact of high voltage power transmission lines on silicon photovoltaics using artificial neural network
Authors: Javed Muhammad Rameez , Hussain Muhammad Imtiaz , Usman Mudassar , Asghar Furqan , Shahid Muhammad , Amjad Waseem , Lee Gwi Hyun , Waleed Aashir
Published: November 2023

The recent trend of renewable energy has positioned solar cells as an excellent choice for energy production in today’s world. However, the performance of silicon photovoltaic (PV) panels can be influenced by various environmental factors such as humidity, light, rusting, temperature fluctuations and rain, etc. This study aims to investigate the potential impact of high voltage power transmission lines (HVTL) on the performance of solar cells at different distances from two high voltage levels (220 and 500 KV). In fact, HVTLs generate electromagnetic (EM) waves which may affect the power production and photocurrent density of solar cells. To analyze this impact, a real-time experimental setup of PV panel is developed (using both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells), located in the vicinity of 220 and 500 KV HVTLs. In order to conduct this study systematically, the impact of HVTL on solar panel is being measured by varying the distance between the HVTL and the solar panels. However, it is important to understand that the obtained experimental values alone are insufficient for comprehensive verification under various conditions. To address this limitation, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is employed to generate HVTL impact curves for PV panels (particularly of voltage and current values) which are impractical to obtain experimentally. The inclusion of ANN approach enhances the understanding of the HVTL impact on solar cell performance across a wide range of conditions. Overall, this work presents the impact study of HVTL on two different types of solar cells at different distances from HVTL for two HV levels (i.e., 220 and 500 KV) and the comparison study of HVTL impact on both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar cells.
Evaluating air quality and criteria pollutants prediction disparities by data mining along a stretch of urban-rural agglomeration includes coal-mine belts and thermal power plants
Authors: Choudhary Arti , Kumar Pradeep , Pradhan Chinmay , Sahu Saroj K. , Chaudhary Sumit K. , Joshi Pawan K. , Pandey Deep N. , Prakash Divya , Mohanty Ashutosh
Published: November 2023

Air pollution has become a threat to human life around the world since researchers have demonstrated several effects of air pollution to the environment, climate, and society. The proposed research was organized in terms of National Air Quality Index (NAQI) and air pollutants prediction using data mining algorithms for particular timeframe dataset (01 January 2019, to 01 June 2021) in the industrial eastern coastal state of India. Over half of the study period, concentrations of PM2.5, PM10 and CO were several times higher than the NAQI standard limit. NAQI, in terms of consistency and frequency analysis, revealed that moderate level (ranges 101–200) has the maximum frequency of occurrence (26–158 days), and consistency was 36%–73% throughout the study period. The satisfactory level NAQI (ranges 51–100) frequency occurrence was 4–43 days with a consistency of 13%–67%. Poor to very poor level of air quality was found 13–50 days of the year, with a consistency of 9%–25%. Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Bagged Multivariate Adaptive Regression Splines (MARS) and Bayesian Regularized Neural Networks (BRNN) are the data mining algorithms, that showed higher efficiency for the prediction of PM2.5, PM10, NO2 and SO2 except for CO and O3 at Talcher and CO at Brajrajnagar. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) between observed and predicted values of PM2.5 (ranges 12.40–17.90) and correlation coefficient (r) (ranges 0.83–0.92) for training and testing data indicate about slightly better prediction of PM2.5 by RF, SVM, bagged MARS, and BRNN models at Talcher in comparison to PM2.5 RMSE (ranges 13.06–21.66) and r (ranges 0.64–0.91) at Brajrajnagar. However, PM10 (RMSE: 25.80–43.41; r: 0.57–0.90), NO2 (RMSE: 3.00–4.95; r: 0.42–0.88) and SO2 (RMSE: 2.78–5.46; r: 0.31–0.88) at Brajrajnagar are better than PM10 (RMSE: 35.40–55.33; r: 0.68–0.91), NO2 (RMSE: 4.99–9.11; r: 0.48–0.92), and SO2 (RMSE: 4.91–9.47; r: 0.20–0.93) between observed and predicted values of training and testing data at Talcher using RF, SVM, bagged MARS and BRNN models, respectively. Taylor plots demonstrated that these algorithms showed promising accuracy for predicting air quality. The findings will help scientific community and policymakers to understand the distribution of air pollutants to strategize reduction in air pollution and enhance air quality in the study region.
Assessment and simulation of thermal environments in Taiyuan urban built-up area, China
Authors: Qiao Qiong , Zhen Zhilei , Lin Yinding
Published: November 2023

The urban heat island (UHI) effect has intensified with increases in impervious surface areas and population densities due to urbanization, which affects the quality of urban life and ecological services. Here, the Moran’s I and hot spot analysis (Getis-Ord Gi*) are used to explore spatial autocorrelation of land surface temperature (LST) in Taiyuan built-up area. Then, the built-up area is divided to 41 sub-areas to accurately explore the urban LST differences caused by different LULC types. Moreover, geographically weighted regression (GWR) is used to analysis the spatial heterogeneity of LST. Finally, we simulate the LST changes using the CA-Markov model in the study area in the year 2030. Our results showed that 1) average LST was 22.76°C in Taiyuan built-up area in 2018. The Highest-temperature areas were distributed in heavy-industry intensive areas in the north, north central, and southeast, whereas the Lowest-temperature areas mainly corresponded to rivers, lakes, urban forests, and green spaces. 2) The Moran’s I gradually decreased from 0.8635 to 0.2097 with an increase in the spatial distance threshold. The optimal recognition effect was obtained at a 400 × 400-m scale. The Getis-Ord Gi* analysis indicated that the cold area was 1248.32 km2 (12.24% of the study area) and the hot area was 43.84 km2 (11.11% of the study area) in 2018. 3) The GWR analysis showed significant spatial non-stationarity in the influence of LULC types on LST. The GWR model was calculated with reference to the observation values of the adjacent areas, so as to better reveal the spatial relationship between artificial surface, woodland, water, grassland, and bare land and LST. 4) The UHI distribution was more concentrated in 2030 than in 2021. The statistics of the proportion and transfer matrix of LST indicated that the proportion of the Highest and Lowest-temperature areas in 2030 decreased and the UHI effect will further intensify. This study could be used to guide sustainable development in cities and provides theoretical support for adjusting the urban spatial structure.
Genetic diversity and breed-informative SNPs identification in domestic pig populations using coding SNPs
Authors: Hayah Ichrak , Talbi Chouhra , Chafai Narjice , Houaga Isidore , Botti Sara , Badaoui Bouabid
Published: November 2023

Background: The use of breed-informative genetic markers, specifically coding Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), is crucial for breed traceability, authentication of meat and dairy products, and the preservation and improvement of pig breeds. By identifying breed informative markers, we aimed to gain insights into the genetic mechanisms that influence production traits, enabling informed decisions in animal management and promoting sustainable pig production to meet the growing demand for animal products.

Methods: Our dataset consists of 300 coding SNPs genotyped from three Italian commercial pig populations: Landrace, Yorkshire, and Duroc. Firstly, we analyzed the genetic diversity among the populations. Then, we applied a discriminant analysis of principal components to identify the most informative SNPs for discriminating between these populations. Lastly, we conducted a functional enrichment analysis to identify the most enriched pathways related to the genetic variation observed in the pig populations.

Results: The alpha diversity indexes revealed a high genetic diversity within the three breeds. The higher proportion of observed heterozygosity than expected revealed an excess of heterozygotes in the populations that was supported by negative values of the fixation index (FIS) and deviations from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The Euclidean distance, the pairwise FST, and the pairwise Nei’s GST genetic distances revealed that Yorkshire and Landrace breeds are genetically the closest, with distance values of 2.242, 0.029, and 0.033, respectively. Conversely, Landrace and Duroc breeds showed the highest genetic divergence, with distance values of 2.815, 0.048, and 0.052, respectively. We identified 28 significant SNPs that are related to phenotypic traits and these SNPs were able to differentiate between the pig breeds with high accuracy. The Functional Enrichment Analysis of the informative SNPs highlighted biological functions related to DNA packaging, chromatin integrity, and the preparation of DNA into higher-order structures.

Conclusion: Our study sheds light on the genetic underpinnings of phenotypic variation among three Italian pig breeds, offering potential insights into the mechanisms driving breed differentiation. By prioritizing breed-specific coding SNPs, our approach enables a more focused analysis of specific genomic regions relevant to the research question compared to analyzing the entire genome.
Towards a comprehensive view of the herpes B virus
Authors: Lu Jiangling , Long Yiru , Sun Jianhua , Gong Likun
Published: November 2023

Herpes B virus is a biosafety level 4 pathogen and widespread in its natural host species, macaques. Although most infected monkeys show asymptomatic or mild symptoms, human infections with this virus can cause serious neurological symptoms or fatal encephalomyelitis with a high mortality rate. Herpes B virus can be latent in the sensory ganglia of monkeys and humans, often leading to missed diagnoses. Furthermore, the herpes B virus has extensive antigen crossover with HSV, SA8, and HVP-2, causing false-positive results frequently. Timely diagnosis, along with methods with sensitivity and specificity, are urgent for research on the herpes B virus. The lack of a clear understanding of the host invasion and life cycle of the herpes B virus has led to slow progress in the development of effective vaccines and drugs. This review discusses the research progress and problems of the epidemiology of herpes B virus, detection methods and therapy, hoping to inspire further investigation into important factors associated with transmission of herpes B virus in macaques and humans, and arouse the development of effective vaccines or drugs, to promote the establishment of specific pathogen-free (SPF) monkeys and protect humans to effectively avoid herpes B virus infection.
Prognostic value of fatty acid metabolism-related genes in colorectal cancer and their potential implications for immunotherapy
Authors: Huang Xi , Sun Yiwen , Song Jia , Huang Yusong , Shi Huizhong , Qian Aihua , Cao Yuncan , Zhou Youci , Wang Qijun
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common gastrointestinal cancers and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Although colonoscopy screening has greatly improved the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer, its recurrence and metastasis are still significant problems. Tumour cells usually have the hallmark of metabolic reprogramming, while fatty acids play important roles in energy storage, cell membrane synthesis, and signal transduction. Many pathways of fatty acid metabolism (FAM) are involved in the occurrence and development of colon cancer, and the complex molecular interaction network contains a variety of genes encoding key enzymes and related products.

Methods

Clinical information and RNA sequencing data were collected from TCGA and GEO databases. The prognosis model of colon cancer was constructed by LASSO-Cox regression analysis among the selected fatty acid metabolism genes with differential expression. Nomogram for the prognosis model was also constructed in order to analyze its value in evaluating the survival and clinical stage of the colon cancer patients. The differential expression of the selected genes was verified by qPCR and immunohistochemistry. GSEA and GSVA were used to analyze the enrichment pathways for high- and low-risk groups. CIBERSORT was used to analyze the immune microenvironment of colon cancer and to compare the infiltration of immune cells in the high- and low-risk groups. The “circlize” package was used to explore the correlation between the risk score signature and immunotherapy for colon cancer.

Results

We analysed the differential expression of 704 FAM-related genes between colon tumour and normal tissue and screened 10 genes with prognostic value. Subsequently, we constructed a prognostic model for colon cancer based on eight optimal FAM genes through LASSO Cox regression analysis in the TCGA-COAD dataset, and its practicality was validated in the GSE39582 dataset. Moreover, the risk score calculated based on the prognostic model was validated as an independent prognostic factor for colon cancer patients. We further constructed a nomogram composed of the risk score signature, age and American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage for clinical application. The colon cancer cohort was divided into high- and low-risk groups according to the optimal cut-off value, and different enrichment pathways and immune microenvironments were depicted in the groups.

Discussion

Since the risk score signature was significantly correlated with the expression of immune checkpoint molecules, the prognostic model might be able to predict the immunotherapy response of colon cancer patients. In summary, our findings expand the prognostic value of FAM-related genes in colon cancer and provide evidence for their application in guiding immunotherapy.
Kirigami-inspired deployable mechanisms with a type-preserving feature and controllable Poisson’s ratio
Authors: Wang Jianzhi , Xiao Hang , Ding Xilun , Lyu Shengnan
Published: November 2023

A spatial deployable mechanism is capable of adapting to different operating requirements by adjusting its shape and size. However, most current deployable mechanisms fail to maintain the type of their reflective surface during the folding process, which limits their ability to adjust the optimal operating frequency. To address this issue, this paper presents a novel design of a deployable mechanism with a type-preserving feature inspired by kirigami techniques. By preserving the type of its reflective surface, this mechanism allows for the adjustment of the optimum operating frequency according to specific requirements. This makes it well-suited for deployment on commercial satellites that undergo constant mission variations. The mechanism is constructed using porous kirigami cells, ensuring that the type of the working surface is maintained throughout the deployment process. The construction of deployable units and networks based on porous cells is also discussed. Additionally, deployable mechanisms with controllable Poisson’s ratios are developed. The kinematics of the mechanism are analyzed to verify the type-preserving characteristics. Finally, four case studies are conducted to illustrate and validate the proposed design and analysis.
Comparison of 1064-nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser using fractional micro-lens array vs. ablative fractional 2940-nm Er:YAG laser for the treatment of atrophic acne scar in Asians: a 20-week prospective, randomized, split-face, controlled pilot study
Authors: Dai Ru , Cao Yiyu , Su Yiping , Cai Suiqing
Published: November 2023

Background

The 1064-nm Nd:YAG picosecond lasers using fractional micro-lens array (P-MLA) was a promising therapy for skin resurfacing. However, no studies have compared P-MLA with ablative fractional 2940-nm Er:YAG lasers (AF-Er) in the treatment of atrophic acne scars.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of P-MLA and AF-Er for the treatment of atrophic acne scars.

Methods

We performed a prospective, randomized, split-face, controlled pilot study. Thirty-one Asian patients with mild to moderate atrophic acne scars underwent four consecutive sessions of randomized split-face treatment with P-MLA and AF-Fr at 4-week intervals. The efficacy of the two devices were evaluated by Echelle d’Evaluation Clinique des Cicatrices d’acne (ECCA) grading scale, Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) score and patient’s satisfaction. VISIA analysis was also performed to evaluate the pore and skin texture. Adverse events were recorded at each follow-up.

Results

The P-MLA afforded comparable clinical responses in scar appearance as AF-Er based on the investigator’s assessments (ECCA percent reduction: 39.11% vs. 43.73%; IGA score: 2.97 ± 0.65 vs. 3.16 ± 0.68; P > 0.05 for both). However, the result of patient satisfaction indicated the AF-Er-treated side achieved a slightly greater improvement in scar appearance (3.97 ± 0.78 vs. 3.55 ± 0.71; P < 0.05). Overall, the two devices did not differ largely in terms of efficacy. VISIA analysis revealed similar changing patterns of the pore and skin texture between two devices. For safety profiles, no serious side effects were reported on both sides. The P-MLA showed lower pain level, shortened duration of crust shed and edema, and less occurrence of PIH (P < 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

Compared with AF-Er, P-MLA afforded comparable effect and more safety profiles in treating atrophic acne scars in Asian patients.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT 05686603.
Patient perspectives of artificial intelligence as a medical device in a skin cancer pathway
Authors: Kawsar Anusuya , Hussain Khawar , Kalsi Dilraj , Kemos Polychronis , Marsden Helen , Thomas Lucy
Published: November 2023

The use of artificial intelligence as a medical device (AIaMD) in healthcare systems is increasing rapidly. In dermatology, this has been accelerated in response to increasing skin cancer referral rates, workforce shortages and backlog generated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence regarding patient perspectives of AIaMD is currently lacking in the literature. Patient acceptability is fundamental if this novel technology is to be effectively integrated into care pathways and patients must be confident that it is implemented safely, legally, and ethically. A prospective, single-center, single-arm, masked, non-inferiority, adaptive, group sequential design trial, recruited patients referred to a teledermatology cancer pathway. AIaMD assessment of dermoscopic images were compared with clinical or histological diagnosis, to assess performance (NCT04123678). Participants completed an online questionnaire to evaluate their views regarding use of AIaMD in the skin cancer pathway. Two hundred and sixty eight responses were received between February 2020 and August 2021. The majority of respondents were female (57.5%), ranged in age between 18 and 93 years old, Fitzpatrick type I-II skin (81.3%) and all 6 skin types were represented. Overall, there was a positive sentiment regarding potential use of AIaMD in skin cancer pathways. The majority of respondents felt confident in computers being used to help doctors diagnose and formulate management plans (median = 70; interquartile range (IQR) = 50–95) and as a support tool for general practitioners when assessing skin lesions (median = 85; IQR = 65–100). Respondents were comfortable having their photographs taken with a mobile phone device (median = 95; IQR = 70–100), which is similar to other studies assessing patient acceptability of teledermatology services. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive study evaluating patient perspectives of AIaMD in skin cancer pathways in the UK. Patient involvement is essential for the development and implementation of new technologies. Continued end-user feedback will allow refinement of services to ensure patient acceptability. This study demonstrates patient acceptability of the use of AIaMD in both primary and secondary care settings.
A scoping review of music-based interventions for swallowing difficulties: implications for treating older adults with presbyphagia
Authors: Kim Soo Ji , Yeo Myung Sun , Kim So Yeon , Kang Seo Yeon
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Presbyphagia refers to age-related changes in the swallowing mechanism (e.g., reduced skeletal muscle strength that decreases bolus control). If left untreated, these changes can lead to dysphagia, which refers to impaired swallowing (e.g., coughing or choking when eating). Given that swallowing difficulties are common among older adults that they make up the fastest growing age group globally, the need for interventions to address presbyphagia is gaining urgency. To begin to address this need, we conducted a scoping review to analyze music therapy research aimed at enhancing swallowing function. The objective was to identify key intervention characteristics and propose clinical implications for treating presbyphagia using music therapy.

Methods

This review followed the methodological frameworks outlined by Arksey and O’Malley and Levac et al. and used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis for Scoping Reviews for analysis and reporting. Four electronic databases (i.e., ProQuest, PubMed, RISS, Web of Science) were searched for quantitative and qualitative studies in English or Korean that used music-based interventions to address swallowing function in older adults. Content analysis was conducted to identify and compare the main features of music interventions for swallowing difficulties among older adults.

Results

Ten articles were identified and analyzed. It was found that three core components–respiration, vocalization, and singing–were employed to enhance swallowing function in populations with neurological impairments, dementia, or head and neck cancer. Notably, actions closely linked to swallowing function, such as laryngeal elevation and oral movements, were utilized therapeutically to speak or sing. Based on these characteristics, clinical implications are proposed to address presbyphagia.

Conclusion

Singing entails a systematic and focused incorporation of stepwise activities that can be used to address swallowing disorders. In this context, critical clinical implications that music therapists should consider when treating individuals with presbyphagia include warmup breathing, vocalizing targeting laryngeal control, and singing targeting oral motor control. This review can contribute to the expansion of music therapy with older adults and the advancement of music therapy techniques.
Isolation of starch and protein degrading strain Bacillus subtilis FYZ1-3 from tobacco waste and genomic analysis of its tolerance to nicotine and inhibition of fungal growth
Authors: Ye Changwen , Liu Dandan , Huang Kuo , Li Dong , Ma Xinxin , Jin Yiying , Xiong Hanguo
Published: November 2023

Aerobic fermentation is an effective technique for the large-scale processing of tobacco waste. However, the specificity of the structure and composition of tobacco-derived organic matter and the toxic alkaloids in the material make it currently difficult to directly use microbial agents. In this study, a functional strain FYZ1-3 was isolated and screened from thermophilic phase samples of tobacco waste composting. This strain could withstand temperatures as high as 80°C and grow normally at 0.6% nicotine content. Furthermore, it had a strong decomposition capacity of tobacco-derived starch and protein, with amylase activity of 122.3  U/mL and protease activity and 52.3  U/mL, respectively. To further understand the mechanism of the metabolic transformation of the target, whole genome sequencing was used and the secondary metabolite gene cluster was predicted. The inhibitory effect of the strain on common tobacco fungi was verified using the plate confrontation and agar column methods. The results showed that the strain FYZ1-3 was Bacillus subtilis, with a genome size of 4.17  Mb and GC content of 43.68%; 4,338 coding genes were predicted. The genome was annotated and analyzed using multiple databases to determine its ability to efficiently degrade starch proteins at the molecular level. Moreover, 14 functional genes related to nicotine metabolism were identified, primarily located on the distinct genomic island of FYZ1-3, giving a speculation for its nicotine tolerance capability on the molecular mechanism. By mining the secondary metabolite gene cluster prediction, we found potential synthetic bacteriocin, antimicrobial peptide, and other gene clusters on its chromosome, which may have certain antibacterial properties. Further experiments confirmed that the FYZ1-3 strain was a potent growth inhibitor of Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus sydowii, A. fumigatus, and Talaromyces funiculosus. The creation and industrial use of the functional strains obtained in this study provide a theoretical basis for its industrial use, where it would be of great significance to improve the utilization rate of tobacco waste.