bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Demonstration Learning Method on Students’ Learning Motivation and Working Skills at Permahisa Vocational School on Hospitality And Tourism Services Major
Authors: Fajriyah Nurul , Kusmiyati Kusmiyati , Purnamasari Hetty
Published: May 2024

This research aims to find out the influence of demonstration learning method (X) on learning motivation (Y1) and working skills (Y2) of the students at the hospitality and tourism services major. This research is using the quantitative approach with the experiment research. The research design on this research is using the one group pre test – post test design. The subjects of this research are all of the 12th grade students at Permahisa vocational school. This research is using observation and questionnaire data collecting technique. The questionnaire is divided into two parts, pretest and posttest. The instruments in this research is the validity and reliability test. The prerequisite test in this research is using the paired sample t-test. This fact could be proven from the paired sample t-test result. It showed that based on the pair 1 output, the value of t was at 50.454>2.086 (t-table) and sig.(2-tailed) was at 0.000<0.05 for the students’ learning motivation and the value of t was at 22.704>2.086 (t-table) and sig.(2-tailed) was at 0.000<0.05 for the students’ working skills. In conclusion, it could be said that there was a significant influence of the demonstration learning method on students’ learning motivation and working skills.
Development of STEM-PjBL Based E-Modules on Acid-Base Material to Improve Learning Outcomes
Authors: Ginting Al Miza , Amdayani Susilawati
Published: May 2024

This study aims to determine the needs analysis, validity, practicality, effectiveness and student response to STEM-PjBL-based E-Modules. This research was conducted at SMAS Kartika I-2 Medan and the sample of class XI IPA 2. The type of research used is Research and Development (R&D) and the development model is 4-D (Four D). The data collection technique is through interviews, observations, questionnaires and tests. Data analysis on the validity test uses the kappa moment formula and the effectiveness test uses the N-Gain test. The results obtained are analyzing the needs of teachers have not maximally used the PjBL learning model, and have never used STEM-PjBL-based E-Modules and the books used have not contained projects and STEM. As many as 69.7% of students feel bored and 57.6% of students prefer to do project-based learning. Validity obtained an average kappa moment of 0.82 very high category, from material experts 0.86 and media experts 0.79 very high category. Practicality by teachers obtained an average kappa moment of 0.99 very high category. Effectiveness obtained an average N-gain of 0.52 medium category. Student response obtained an average kappa moment of 0.81 very high category.
Analysis Of Student Misconceptions Using A Web-Based Diagnostic Test On Redox Material
Authors: Silaban Lamtiur Paronauli , Riris Ida Duma , Muchtar Zainnudin , Ginting Elfrinda , Nasution Haqqi Annazili
Published: May 2024

This study aims to determine the presence of student misconceptions in redox material, misconceptions in each concept of redox material, and factors causing student misconceptions in redox material in class XII MIA SMA N 2 Percut Sei Tuan. This research is a quantitative descriptive research. The sampling technique in this study used purposive sampling technique. The samples in this study were 32 students of class XII MIA 1 who were selected based on the recommendation of the chemistry teacher. Data collection techniques were carried out using a web-based three-tier diagnostic test, misconception questionnaire, and in-depth interviews (teachers and students). The results showed that the misconceptions identified using the web-based three tier diagnostic test on the redox concept as a whole was 31.718%, while students who experience incomprehension of the concept is 54.687%, students who understand the concept is 13.906% and understand the concept is not sure 1.25%. Students' misconceptions on each concept of redox material are highest on the concept of compound names at 43.8% and the lowest on the concept of equalizing redox reactions with the oxidation number method and the ½ reaction/ion electron method at 26.6%.Based on the results of questionnaires and interviews, each factor has an influence on misconceptions, the biggest misconceptions are teacher factors and teaching methods, namely 21.32% and 21.28%.
Design of Training to Improve Teacher Competence In Implementing the Integrative Curriculum at Xaverius Catholic School Tanjung Karang
Authors: Nata Ekwandani Theresia , Riswandi Riswandi , Herpratiwi Herpratiwi
Published: May 2024

The integrative curriculum in Catholic schools has different characteristics from the curriculum in general. In the education system, more specifically in educational institutions (schools), ideally teachers have the required competencies in order to carry out their duties and functions properly and responsibly. Challenges in the implementation of the Integrative Curriculum pose various challenges for teachers, such as the incorporation of Catholic values with general subject matter, the use of appropriate learning methods, and comprehensive evaluation. This research will review several literature studies as a reference for researchers in designing interactive curriculum implementation in Catholic schools to improve teacher competence. This research uses the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method. The SLR method is used to identify, review, evaluate, and interpret all available research with the topic area of the phenomenon of interest, with specific relevant research questions. The results of the study concluded that developing a training design is an important step to improve teacher competence in implementing an integrative curriculum. The improved competencies include an understanding of Catholic teachings, skills to integrate these values in learning, and the ability to use relevant learning methods
DEVELOPMENT OF E-MODULES BASED ON PROJECT BASED LEARNING (PjBL) TO INCREASE STUDENT’S INTEREST IN LEARNING AND LEARNING OUTCOMES ON REACTION RATE MATERIAL
Authors: Siregar Nurhidayah , Syafriani Dewi
Published: May 2024

This research aims to: (1) determine the validity of e-modules based on project based learning, (2) determine the practicality of e-modules based on project based learning, (3) determine the effectiveness of e-modules based on project based learning, and (4) determine whether there is a significant correlation between interest and learning outcomes. This research was conducted at SMA Negeri 10 Medan with the sample studied was class XI IPA 2. The data analysis technique is carried out by: e-module feasibility test according to BSNP, learning interest test, and correlation test between learning interest and learning outcomes. The results obtained in this research are: (1) E-modules based on project based learning are considered "valid" after being validated by 1 chemistry lecturer with an average material assessment of 89% and an average media assessment of 92% which can be categorized as “very feasible”; (2) e-modules based on project based learning can be considered "practical" after receiving chemistry teacher responses with an average percentage of 94% which can be categorized as "very feasible" and student responses with a grade of "very feasible". average grade of 98%; (3) e-module based on project based learning is considered "effective" with a posttest score of 93, an increase from 58, resulting in an N-Gain score of 0.83 (83%), which means it is in the high criteria; (4) There is a positive and significant relationship between interest in learning and student learning outcomes where “rhitung” is 0.6471 and “rtabel” is 0.361. Article History
The Influence of Learning Models and Student Learning Activities on Collaboration Skills and Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Telaumbanua Debi M N , Syafriani Dewi
Published: May 2024

This research was conducted to determine whether or not there are differences in the value of collaboration skills and student learning outcomes taught using various learning models and student learning activities with the help of Macromedia Flash media on chemical bonding material, as well as to see the interaction between learning models and student learning activities on collaboration skills and student learning outcomes. Experimental class I (X-6) applied the Discovery Learning model and experimental class II (X-10) applied the Guided Inquiry model. The instrument used is a test instrument, a non-test instrument. Hypothesis testing was carried out using two-way ANOVA with multivariate General Linear Model (GLM). The research results obtained a price of sig. 0.000 for collaboration skill value and sig price. 0.001 for learning outcomes. Price sig. < 𝛼 (0.05) so there is a significant difference in the average value of collaboration skills and student learning outcomes with various learning models. Obtained sig value. 0.000 on collaboration skills and learning outcomes. Sig price value. < 𝛼 (0.05) so there is a significant difference in the average value of collaboration skills and student learning outcomes with various learning activities. The interaction between the learning model and learning activities obtained a sig value. 0.045 for collaboration skills and sig. 0.014 for learning outcomes. From the two sig values. < 𝛼 (0.05) so that Ha is accepted and Ho is rejected, there is an interaction between the learning model and student learning activities on the value of collaboration skills and student learning outcomes in the Chemical Bond material.
Tingkat Fanatisme Penggemar K-Pop di Aplikasi X
Authors: Zain Ainun Khusnita Salsabilla , Mufidah Elia Firda
Published: May 2024

Tujuan dalam penelitian ini untuk mengetahui tingkat fanatisme penggemar K-Pop yang ada di Aplikasi X. K-Pop saat ini menjadi perbincangan hangat dikalangan remaja dan hampir sebagian besar remaja sangat menggandrumi K-Pop. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengukur tinggat fanatisme yang ada di aplikasi X dengan empat indikator yang diantaranya adalah imitasi, konsumtif, obsesif, dan agresif. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif deskriptif. Populasi penelitian adalah penggemar K-Pop di Aplikasi X dengan kriteria usia 15 – 26 tahun baik dari kalangan fangirl ataupun fanboy dan aktif di sosial media X. Pengumpulan data diperoleh dari hasil penyebaran kuisoner yang dibantu oleh autobase khusus mahasiswa (@collegemenfess) dengan pengikut 1,2jt dan postingan peneliti di akun pribadinya sehingga didapatkan responden sebanyak 412 orang. Dari hasil penelitian yang telah dilakukan oleh peneliti tingkat fanatisme penggemar K-Pop yang ada di Aplikasi X dikategorikan dalam kategori sedang.
Analisis Faktor-Faktor Yang Dapat Mempengaruhi Tax Avoidance Dengan Kepemilikan Institusional Sebagai Variabel Moderasi
Authors: Manurung Cherryl Berthania Andaristha , Ratnawati Vince , Nasir Azwir
Published: May 2024

This research aims to find empirical evidence of the influence of firm size, capital intensity and sales growth on Tax Avoidance with Institutional Ownership as a moderating variable. This research was conducted at manufacturing companies registered on the BEI in the 2016-2019 period with a sample size of 77. The sampling technique used the Purposive Sampling Method and the data analysis technique used multiple regression analysis and Moderate Regression Analysis (MRA) via the SPSS application. The research results prove that firm size influences Tax Avoidance, Capital Intensity influences Tax Avoidance, Sales Growth influences Tax Avoidance, Constitutional Ownership influences Tax Avoidance. Institutional Ownership is able to moderate the influence of Capital Intensity and Sales Growth on Tax Avoidance but is not able to moderate the influence of firm size on Tax Avoidance. The implications of this research can be a consideration for companies not to carry out Unacceptable Tax Avoidance which can be detrimental to the country. This is because research results show that companies can carry out Acceptable Tax Avoidance by making better use of several factors such as Capital Intensity and Sales Growth so that there is no need to carry out Tax Avoidance in unacceptable ways that can harm the country. However, company owners must also monitor managers' policies so that they do not do things that are contrary to applicable tax regulations which could have a negative impact on the sustainability of the company.
Using the Moodle Platform in the English Reading Comprehension of Students at a Higher Education Military School
Authors: Ramirez-Heredia Rosa Candelaria , Santiago-González Pilar Del Rocío , Nina-Cuchillo Enoc Eusebio , Escobedo-Apestegui Franklin Macdonald , Acosta-Pastor Víctor Nilo , Nina-Cuchillo Josue
Published: May 2024

The use of virtual educational platforms has experienced a remarkable increase in the academic field, offering innovative tools that enhance the quality of teaching and the learning process. The objective of the research was to determine the influence of the use of the Moodle platform on the English reading comprehension of students in a higher education military school. The study was a basic, causal correlational, non-experimental, cross-sectional design. The population included 1.341 students from a military school in Lima, Peru, and the sample consisted of 300 students selected by random probability sampling. The results showed that the use of the Moodle platform has a regular performance (45.7%), while English reading comprehension is in process (39.7%). It was concluded that the use of the Moodle platform has a significant influence on English reading comprehension, being this influence high (Nagelkerke’s R2 = 0.808).
The Impact of Perceived Leadership Effectiveness on Job Satisfaction Among Mental Health Practitioners in Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Pham Joey , Gorjian Niary , Miller Robert , Masuda Glen
Published: May 2024

Leadership has been a fascinating research topic for many years and garners substantial interest from many organizations seeking to enhance and maximize human resources. Leadership effectiveness was especially identified as one of the most influential moderator for employee job satisfaction. Three additional components that served as the control variables were: organizational commitment, performance, and occupational burnout. Multiple regression analysis was utilized to explore the impact of their relationship with employee job satisfaction. The results confirmed that an employee’s perception of his or her leader’s effectiveness was paramount to job satisfaction compared to the effects of controlled variables.
Predicting hand grip force based on muscle electromyographic activity using artificial intelligence and neural networks
Authors: Abood Jalal , Sameer Mohammed Ammar , Ismaeel Safaa , Hassan Mohammed
Published: May 2024

The research aims to find predictive values for hand grip strength based on electromyographic activity, in addition to identifying differences between measured grip strength and the predicted grip strength. The research sample included 12 advanced handball players, with their medical records verified. Researchers measured grip strength using a device designed to read Newton force, recording data in real-time with a sampling window of 0.1 seconds. This measurement was synchronized with the recording of muscle electromyographic activity (sEMG) using the Noraxon myoMOTION technique, with a frequency and number of channels set at 400Hz and 8 channels, respectively. The recommended methodology and conditions were strictly adhered to, with the process repeated for each player with complete rest intervals. The following research variables were adopted: peak electromyographic activity, root mean square, time to peak, time ratio between peak and minimum values, average peaks, area under the curve, peak sustain time, peak changes, and voluntary maximum contraction. Grip strength measurements using the designed device were conducted at three stages (50%, 75%, 100%), maintaining the specified intensity for 3 seconds. After data collection, preliminary processing involved isolation and purification to identify the most influential factors. IBM Statistical was the chosen technique for implementing neural networks and using artificial intelligence techniques to process data with a database synchronized using Python. The results generally supported some of the proposed ideas, with interesting findings revealing statistically insignificant and slight differences between recorded and expected grip strength
Viability of Human Arterial Grafts Monitored by Comet Assay
Authors: Pilin A , Mazura I , Lainková R , Salmay M , Měřička P , Pecha O , Janoušek L , Grus T , Špunda R , Lindner J , Špaček M
Published: May 2024

An analytical method for studying DNA degradation by electrophoresis after cell lysis and visualization of DNA fragments with fluorescent dye, comet assay, was used to evaluate the viability of the endothelial layer of human arterial grafts with the aim of identifying the procedure that will least damage the tissue before cryopreservation. Four groups of samples were studied: cryopreserved arterial grafts that were thawed in two different ways, slowly lasting 2 hours or rapidly for approx. 7 minutes. Arterial grafts that were collected as part of multiorgan procurement with minimal warm ischemia time. Cadaveric grafts were taken as part of the autopsy, so they have a more extended period of warm ischemia. The HeadDNA (%) parameter and others commonly used parameters like TailDNA (%). TailMoment, TailLength, OliveMoment, TailMoment to characterize the comet were used to assess viability in this study. The ratio of non-decayed to decayed nuclei was determined from the values found. This ratio for cadaveric grafts was 0.63, for slowly thawed cryopreserved grafts 2.9, for rapidly thawed cryopreserved grafts 1.9, and for multi-organ procurement grafts 0.68. The results of the study confirmed the assumption that the allografts obtained from cadaveric donors are the least suitable. On the other hand, grafts obtained from multiorgan donors are better in terms of viability monitored by comet assay.
Keywords: Arterial grafts • Cryopreservation • Cadaveric • Multiorgan procurement • Viability • Comet assay
Electrical Stimulation-Based Twitch Exercise Suppresses Progression of Immobilization-Induced Muscle Fibrosis via Downregulation of PGC-1α/VEGF Pathway
Authors: Honda Y , Takahashi A , Tanaka N , Kajiwara Y , Sasaki R , Kataoka H , Sakamoto J , Okita M
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to determine whether electrical stimulation-based twitch exercise is effective in inhibiting the progression of immobilization-induced muscle fibrosis. 19 Wistar rats were randomly divided into a control group (n=6), an immobilization group (n=6; with immobilization only), and a Belt group (n=7; with immobilization and twitch exercise through the belt electrode device, beginning 2 weeks after immobilization). The bilateral soleus muscles were harvested after the experimental period. The right soleus muscles were used for histological analysis, and the left soleus muscles were used for biochemical and molecular biological analysis. As a result, in the picrosirius red images, the perimysium and endomysium were thicker in both the immobilization and Belt groups compared to the control group. However, the perimysium and endomysium thickening were suppressed in the Belt group. The hydroxyproline content and α-SMA, TGF-β1, and HIF-1α mRNA expressions were significantly higher in the immobilization and belt groups than in the control group. These expressions were significantly lower in the Belt group than in the immobilization group. The capillary-to-myofiber ratio and the mRNA expressions of VEGF and PGC-1α were significantly lower in the immobilization and belt groups than in the control group, these were significantly higher in the Belt group than in the immobilization group. From these results, Electrical stimulation-based twitch exercise using the belt electrode device may prevent the progression of immobilization-induced muscle fibrosis caused by downregulating PGC-1α/VEGF pathway, we surmised that this intervention strategy might be effective against the progression of muscle contracture.
Keywords: Immobilization • Skeletal muscle • Fibrosis • Electrical stimulation-based twitch exercise • PGC-1α/VEGF pathway
The Return of the Native: James MacPherson, Improving Strategies and Clanship Imagination in Late Eighteenth-century Badenoch
Authors: Archambaud Thomas
Published: May 2024

This paper examines a neglected facet of the life of the poet and colonial agent James Macpherson (1736–1796). Better known today as the ‘translator’ of Ossian, James Macpherson was also a political writer and MP who enjoyed a long association with the East India Company (EIC). In the 1780s, James returned to his native Badenoch, bought an estate, and played a decisive role in the reconfiguration of the area through military recruitments, land arbitration and new strategies of landownership and improvements.

Studying James Macpherson's relation to land and kinship reveals a more complex and ambivalent man than previously acknowledged in existing literature. Drawing from official and private records, as well as Gaelic material, this paper uncovers the extent to which his reestablishment was the product of his imperial activities, as was visible in the reinjection of external capital in land. James's political connections in London were instrumental in assisting Duncan Macpherson (later of Cluny), son of the exiled Macpherson clan chief, in recovering the forfeited estates. Enjoying popularity with his tenants, James was reluctant to impose purely commercial improvements: his considerable East Indian profits provided him with financial emancipation from unpredictable land revenues and the ability to preserve his image of a paternalist landowner locally.

However, this paper also engages with James Macpherson's ideology and recreation of a mythical past serving his own interests. Offering valuable help to the entrepreneurial Macpherson gentry also involved in India and America, James took a decisive role in offering advise and support to large-scale improvement projects. His adoption of a lavish lifestyle and conscious use of entertainment, made possible by the influx of colonial wealth, enabled him to challenge the old social order, juxtapose himself with the Cluny Macpherson and recreate a post-clanship culture serving the interests of the colonial gentry.

The controversial perception of James Macpherson, whose role oscillated between that of nouveau riche and ‘clan champion’, sheds a new light on the impact of the British Empire on Badenoch, and the Highlands at large. A closer look at his reestablishment in Badenoch, a county traditionally seen by historians as an example of effective management without mass depopulation, provides new perspectives on the intersection of late-eighteenth century empire, improvement, and clanship.
Counting Crofters: Digitised Census Enumerators Books as a New Source for the Later Nineteenth Century
Authors: Roughley Corinne , Anderson Michael
Published: May 2024

This paper explores some of the ways in which access to the census enumerators books for later nineteenth century censuses, now digitised by the ‘Integrated Census Microdata’ project, can throw new light on a range of socio-demographic developments in the ‘Crofting Counties’ between the early 1850s and the early 1880s. Collating and mapping occupational titles by parish reveals major changes in the titles recorded for those farming small land parcels and in the spatial distributions and age profiles or those heading such households. The numbers of household heads reported as ‘Crofter’ markedly increased between 1851 and 1881 (including outside the ‘Crofting Counties’), as use of terms like ‘Tenant’ and ‘Lotter’ declined. ‘Cottar’, even in 1851 used in very small numbers in most places, was reported in 1881 in very limited areas, even where the estates still used it extensively. The number of households headed by ‘Fishermen’ increased greatly in some areas, notably in Lewis. At the same time, the numbers of men becoming heads of small agriculturalist households at younger ages fell markedly, while rising numbers headed households as ‘Fishermen’. Comparative analysis of four case study areas suggests that, when fishing and other incomes fell markedly in the early 1880s, inter-generational differences in access to headship of a croft may have been a significant stimulus to localised outbreaks of disturbance pressing for land reform.
The Utilisation of Identity and Heritage in Protests Against Police and Water Mergers in Orkney and Shetland, 1966–9
Authors: Nicolson Mathew
Published: May 2024

Between 1966 and 1969, Scotland’s police forces and water services were amalgamated into larger regional bodies. The mergers provoked significant protest in Orkney and Shetland, as the islands’ local authorities spearheaded unsuccessful campaigns to retain local control over police and water services. Largely neglected by historians, this article argues that the protests played a key role in mobilising the islands’ communities and local authorities against a perceived external threat to their social, economic, and political sustainability. Although the central arguments against amalgamations were based on geography and logistics, councillors and protesters utilised Orkney and Shetland’s distinct identity and heritage as rhetorical devices to oppose the proposals. Rather than literal displays of Norse nostalgia or Scandinavian affinity, this politicisation of identity offered strategic opportunities for maximising external attention towards the campaign. However, this element to the campaign also reflected sincere commitments to the principles of local control and self-sufficiency, fostering the development of distinct political identities in each archipelago. As a result, the anti-amalgamation protests can be considered an early manifestation of political regionalism in the Northern Isles and an important antecedent in understanding the emergence of autonomy movements in Orkney and Shetland in subsequent decades.
Unveiling the Meaning of Love אהב: Between Politics and Romance in the Story of David and Jonathan
Authors: Pardede Harold
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the evolving interpretation of the relationship between David and Jonathan in the book of Samuel. Recent scholarship has sparked controversy by suggesting a possible homosexual connection between the two figures. This research challenges such interpretations by revisiting the concept of love (אהב) within ancient Near Eastern and biblical covenants, drawing on the foundational work of William Moran. Employing textual criticism and exegesis, the analysis focuses on the Hebrew terms חפץ and נעם used in 1 Samuel 19:1 and 2 Samuel 1:23, 26. By examining these terms alongside supporting evidence from the Hebrew Bible and ancient Aramaic texts, the study argues that these words carry primarily political connotations, signifying "delight" or "pleasantness" (חפץ) and "loveliness" or "beauty" (נעם), rather than romantic love. This novel interpretation reframes the understanding of David and Jonathan's bond, emphasizing its political significance within the broader narrative.
Relationship Between the Role of Christian Religious Education Teachers According to Titus 2:6-8 And the Character Development of High School Students in Loa Janan Ilir District During The 2023/2024 Academic Year
Authors: Bali Henita Tangdi , Yulia Tantri , Rombe Eni
Published: May 2024

The study aims to explore the relationship between the role of the Christian Teacher of Education (PAK) according to Titus 2:6-8 and the character development of high school students in the Loa Janan Ilir region for the academic year 2023/2024. Using the method of correlation analysis, the findings showed a positive correlationship between the role of PAK teacher and student character development, even though the correspondence was low with a Pearson correlative coefficient of 0.249. The results of the analysis also indicated that only a small part of the variability in student character development can be attributed to the role of PAK teacher, with a determination coefficient (ry2) of 6.2%. The study also highlighted that the majority of variabilities in the character development of students (93.8%) are influenced by factors outside the scope of the study. However, the level of significance of the correlation factor found (0.05) indicates that there is a statistically significant relationship between the teacher's role and the student's character development. Thus, the study provides important insights into the role of PAK Teachers in shaping the character of high school students, while emphasizing the importance of considering other external factors that contribute to student character development
Enhancing the Digital Earth via Digital Decimal Geolocation and the FAIR Data Principles
Authors: Whalley W. Brian
Published: May 2024

The essential aspects of Gore’s “Digital Earth” concept include “georeferenced” data. This paper is concerned with establishing the need for a standardised and common form to locate points on the earth’s surface. Rather than a degree, minute, second (dms) system for latitude/longitude location, a decimal degree system, formatted as a comma separated variable tuple in square brackets, [dLL], is advocated. Values, to an appropriate number of decimal places, can be inserted in text to be computer searchable. The [dLL] also becomes metadata for a data set or as an index in databases or identifiers for images. Various uses of this system are illustrated. The [dLL] allows data to become more “open” via the FAIR data principles: findability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability. Wider use of [dLL] in the earth sciences is fundamental to collaboration with other disciplines, especially Critical Zone Science. The general use of [dLL] geolocation can be exploited in a wide variety of data analytical methodologies, some of which are outlined, and in earth science and environmental data situations.
A new self-adjustable glaucoma valve
Authors: Rafiei Soroush , Gerber Julien Maxime , Bigler Stéphane , Stergiopulos Nikolaos
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness globally, affects more than 70 million people across the world. When initial treatments prove ineffective, especially for cases with high intraocular pressure (IOP), the preferred approach involves employing glaucoma drainage devices (GDDs).

Methods: This study introduces a novel self-adjustable glaucoma drainage device (SAGDD) designed to maintain IOP within the desired biological range (10 mmHg < IOP <18 mmHg) by dynamically modulating its fluidic resistance. Inspired by the starling resistor, we designed a circular valve with a thin, flexible membrane placed over the valve’s inlet and outlet. To achieve the ideal design for the SAGDD and optimize its parameters, we utilized fluid-solid interaction (FSI) numerical models and conducted parametric studies, wherein simulations demonstrated the validity of the concept. Subsequently, to confirm and validate the numerical results, we fabricated a SAGDD at a 3:1 scale and subjected it to in vitro testing.

Results: Our findings demonstrate that, on a 3:1 scale, a circular SAGDD with a diameter of 8.1 mm and a stainless-steel membrane with a thickness of 10 µm effectively maintained IOP within the target range when the membrane exposed to external pressures of 7.5 or 10 mmHg.

Discussion: In summary, our study establishes a strong foundation for further exploration of the potential efficacy of SAGDD as a promising treatment for glaucoma. The cost-effectiveness and simplicity of its design, devoid of costly instrumentation, hold considerable promise in addressing the challenges associated with glaucoma.
The sugar donor specificity of plant family 1 glycosyltransferases
Authors: Gharabli Hani , Welner Ditte Hededam
Published: May 2024

Plant family 1 glycosyltransferases (UGTs) represent a formidable tool to produce valuable natural and novel glycosides. Their regio- and stereo-specific one-step glycosylation mechanism along with their inherent wide acceptor scope are desirable traits in biotechnology. However, their donor scope and specificity are not well understood. Since different sugars have different properties in vivo and in vitro, the ability to easily glycodiversify target acceptors is desired, and this depends on our improved understanding of the donor binding site. In the aim to unlock the full potential of UGTs, studies have attempted to elucidate the structure-function relationship governing their donor specificity. These efforts have revealed a complex phenomenon, and general principles valid for multiple enzymes are elusive. Here, we review the studies of UGT donor specificity, and attempt to group the information into key concepts which can help shape future research. We zoom in on the family-defining PSPG motif, on two loop residues reported to interact with the C6 position of the sugar, and on the role of active site arginines in donor specificity. We continue to discuss attempts to alter and expand the donor specificity by enzyme engineering, and finally discuss future research directions.
Prohibitin modulates periodontium differentiation in mice development
Authors: Aryal Yam Prasad , Han Song-Yi , Rana Bandana , Neupane Sanjiv , Kim Tae-Young , Pokharel Elina , Ha Jung-Hong , Jung Jae-Kwang , An Chang-Hyeon , Kim Ji-Youn , Yamamoto Hitoshi , Lee Youngkyun , An Seo-Young , Suh Jo-Young , Kim Jae-Young , Sohn Wern-Joo
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Prohibitin (PHB) is an essential scaffold protein that modulates signaling pathways controlling cell survival, metabolism, inflammation, and bone formation. However, its specific role in periodontium development remains less understood. This study aims to elucidate the expression pattern and function of PHB in periodontium development and its involvement in alveolar bone formation.

Methods: Immunolocalization of PHB in the periodontium of postnatal (PN) mice were examined. Phb morpholino was micro-injected into the right-side mandible at PN5, corresponding to the position where the alveolar bone process forms in relation to the lower first molar. The micro-injection with a scramble control (PF-127) and the left-side mandibles were used as control groups. Five days post-micro-injection, immunohistochemical analysis and micro-CT evaluation were conducted to assess bone mass and morphological changes. Additionally, expression patterns of signaling molecules were examined following Phb downregulation using 24-h in vitro cultivation of developing dental mesenchyme at E14.5.

Results: The immunostaining of PHB showed its localization in the periodontium at PN5, PN8, and PN10. The in vitro cultivation of dental mesenchyme resulted in alterations in Bmps, Runx2, and Wnt signalings after Phb knock-down. At 5 days post-micro-injection, Phb knocking down showed weak immunolocalizations of runt-related transcription factor (RUNX2) and osteocalcin (OCN). However, knocking down Phb led to histological alterations characterized by decreased bone mass and stronger localizations of Ki67 and PERIOSTIN in the periodontium compared 1 to control groups. The micro-CT evaluation showed decreased bone volume and increased PDL space in the Phb knock-down specimens, suggesting its regulatory role in bone formation.

Discussion: The region-specific localization of PHB in the margin where alveolar bone forms suggests its involvement in alveolar bone formation and the differentiation of the periodontal ligament. Overall, our findings suggest that Phb plays a modulatory role in alveolar bone formation by harmoniously regulating bone-forming-related signaling molecules during periodontium development.
Prediction and classification of chemical composition of ancient glass objects based on generalized Shapley functions
Authors: Cai Na-Na , Yin Yi-Yuan , Han Qi
Published: May 2024

Ancient glass products have suffered from the baptism of time and experienced changes in the burial environment and weathering, resulting in a change in the proportions of their chemical composition and interfering with their accurate identification by later generations. In this paper, the chemical composition of ancient glass products is predicted and identified. First, the multivariate statistical ANOVA test is applied to explore the relationship between whether the cultural relics samples are weathered or not and the glass type, decoration, and color to derive a law of chemical composition of the cultural relics and to analyze the correlation and difference among the four factors. Second, compared with the relevant data of the existing glass products, the missing values are processed by using the method of filling in the plurality. The weathering condition of the sampling points of the samples whose surfaces are not weathered is judged by the “distance discrimination method.” Combined with the characteristics of the lead-barium glass and the high-potassium glass, the law of the chemical composition content on the surface of the samples, weathered or not, is explored. The modeling of the gray prediction method was applied again to predict the chemical composition content before weathering. Finally, the generalized Shapley function of fuzzy measurement was used to analyze the correlation between indicators and the chemical compositions and their differences. The scheme proposed in this paper can solve the difficult problem of category judgment in archeology, which is of great significance in promoting the smooth progress of archaeological work.
Interaction of Neisseria meningitidis carrier and disease isolates of MenB cc32 and MenW cc22 with epithelial cells of the nasopharyngeal barrier
Authors: Peters Simon , Mohort Katherina , Claus Heike , Stigloher Christian , Schubert-Unkmeir Alexandra
Published: May 2024

Neisseria meningitidis (Nm, the meningococcus) is considered an asymptomatic colonizer of the upper respiratory tract and a transient member of its microbiome. It is assumed that the spread of N. meningitidis into the bloodstream occurs via transcytosis of the nasopharyngeal epithelial barrier without destroying the barrier layer. Here, we used Calu-3 respiratory epithelial cells that were grown under air-liquid-interface conditions to induce formation of pseudostratified layers and mucus production. The number of bacterial localizations in the outer mucus, as well as cellular adhesion, invasion and transmigration of different carrier and disease N. meningitidis isolates belonging to MenB:cc32 and MenW:cc22 lineages was assessed. In addition, the effect on barrier integrity and cytokine release was determined. Our findings showed that all strains tested resided primarily in the outer mucus layer after 24 h of infection (>80%). Nonetheless, both MenB:cc32 and MenW:cc22 carrier and disease isolates reached the surface of the epithelial cells and overcame the barrier. Interestingly, we observed a significant difference in the number of bacteria transmigrating the epithelial cell barrier, with the representative disease isolates being more efficient to transmigrate compared to carrier isolates. This could be attributed to the capacity of the disease isolates to invade, however could not be assigned to expression of the outer membrane protein Opc. Moreover, we found that the representative meningococcal isolates tested in this study did not damage the epithelial barrier, as shown by TEER measurement, FITC-dextran permeability assays, and expression of cell-junction components.
A new drought model for disaster risk management in the Punjab, Sindh and Baluchistan provinces of Pakistan
Authors: Black Emily , Maidment Ross I. , Rees Elizabeth , Nderitu Eleanor
Published: May 2024

Drought poses a continual threat to both lives and livelihoods in the Global South. Although the impact on food security from drought could be reduced through early release of funds, the humanitarian sector typically reacts to crises rather than anticipates them. A significant challenge lies in devising a drought monitoring and forecasting system that can function across environmentally and economically diverse regions. This is particularly evident in Pakistan, which encompasses environments ranging from fertile riverbeds to arid deserts. This paper details the development, implementation, and operation of an anticipatory drought Disaster Risk Financing (DRF) programme for the provinces of Punjab, Sindh, and Baluchistan in Pakistan. Key to the DRF development are a new yield model for the primary crop in the target season (winter wheat), and a novel forecasting system for four seasonal drought indicators - namely winter wheat yield, precipitation, normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) and vegetation health index (VHI). Formal evaluations demonstrate that the forecasts are skillful up to 2 months in advance of the end of the season – enabling anticipatory release of funds. The work presented here is applicable beyond Pakistan. Indeed, the model and the methodologies are sufficiently broad and adaptable to be utilised in arid and semi-arid regions across the Global South.
Object-oriented analysis as a foundation for building climate storylines of compounding short-term drought and crop heat stress
Authors: Fisel B. J. , Garbers S. J. , Haar D. , Zoerner M. M. , Gutowski W. J.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Crops are vulnerable to precipitation and heat extremes during late spring through summer.

Methods

We analyzed for a north-central U.S. region short-term drought and agricultural heat stress during April-May-June-July. We used the 4-km Parameter Elevation Regression on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM) for observations, aggregated to a 25-km grid, and two 25-km Regional Climate Model version 4 (RegCM4) simulns used either GFDL- or MPI-GCM boundary conditions. We chose 1981-2000 as our contemporary time period, and 2041-2060 as our scenario time period, which used the Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 emissions scenario. We used object-oriented analysis to identify events of interest in observations and simulations by identifying objects in a space-time domain that meet specified criteria, such as exceeding a heat-stress temperature threshold. The event diagnosis allowed analysis of compound events, occurring when temperature and drought objects overlap.

Results

Identified objects yielded events that can undermine agricultural productivity and which are thus relevant to decision makers, making them building blocks for possible climate storylines. The observations and simulations showed similar spatial distributions of event frequencies across the analysis region. However, the simulations attained this distribution by having fewer events that tend to cover larger areas compared to observed events, suggesting that the effective resolution of the simulations was coarser than their 25-km grids. Short-term drought frequency increased and heat-stress frequency decreased in transitioning to the scenario climate. When compounding occurred heat-stress events generally preceded the short-term drought events. The overlapping, compound events tended to be more extreme compared to non-overlapping events of either type.

Discussion

The information yielded projected changes in these agriculturally motivated events. One prominent conditional behavior emerging from the work was that a heat-stress event should be a warning to watch for potential drought, as both could compound each other to more intense levels.
Patient-centered communication’s association with trust, satisfaction, and perception of electronic health records use among newly diagnosed patients with cancer
Authors: Elkefi Safa , Asan Onur , Yu Zhongyuan , Yen Tina , Rowley Scott
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The diagnosis of cancer creates immediate psychosocial distress for patients. New cancer patients are required to make important decisions about their treatment. Thus, it is essential to investigate their communication needs. This study examines the association between patient-centered communication and newly diagnosed cancer patients’ trust in their healthcare providers, satisfaction with the care visits, and perception of technology use during the visits.

Methods

We collected data from the Hackensack Meridian Health between February 2021 and May 2022. One hundred thirty-five participants were included in the study.

Results

The findings captured the significant effect of patient-centered communication on the trust in doctors and satisfaction with care services. However, no association was noticed with the perception of EHR use among this population.

Discussion

In the first visits after cancer diagnosis, patients need to build strong communication with their doctors to build trust in them. Future studies should focus on testing the hypotheses longitudinally to validate the findings in other phases of the cancer care continuum.
Making vulnerable groups able to connect socially and digitally—opportunities and pitfalls
Authors: Faye Reidun , Ravneberg Bodil Elise
Published: May 2024

Introduction

This article addresses digital and social inclusion of adults with potential low digital skills. The article presents a case study of how digital learning activities (DLAs) as a service to refugees, immigrants, senior citizens, and young adults neither in education, employment, or training (NEETs), are delivered outside the formal educational system by two libraries and one civic organization in Norway, Denmark, and Belgium. Through the theoretical lenses of social capital building, co-creation and co-producing, the article analyzes how the DLA’s were organized and tailored for the participant’s needs, with an emphasis on cooperation efforts with local sub-partners and representatives from the target groups.

Methods

A multiple case-design was applied using a process tracing method combining qualitative and quantitative techniques. To measure the partner organizations’ experiences from the project, we conducted participant observation, personal and focus group interviews, in addition to self-reporting schemas about how they organized the DLA’s. Surveys were conducted to measure the participants’ experiences.

Results

By combining literature and theoretical approaches from several fields; digital inclusion, public and civil organization research—with a particular focus on libraries, and their role in educating refugees and other vulnerable groups, the article provides new insights on how public and non-public organizations in local communities can work together to tailor-make DLAs and contribute to the promotion of digital inclusion.

Discussion

Libraries and civic organizations have potential to reach out to vulnerable people in local communities, to provide innovative DLA’s and to connect both people and organizations. Vital for recruitment of participants and to find the right level of digital/technical ambition is to closely co-create and co-produce with representatives from other local organizations in both civil and public sector during the whole process. Co-creating activities with actors representing the target group in the planning phase as well as co-producing them in the implementation phase, are important prerequisites. The article discusses the challenges of trust-building, of finding the right level of digital ambition as well as developing long-term digital activities as important factors for the promotion of digital inclusion.