bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fostering Environmental Stewardship through Mangrove Ecotourism: A Study on Gili Sulat's Educational Impact
Authors: Afifah Kurniasih Nur , Yoo Ri , Suhirman Suhirman
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the educational impact of mangrove ecotourism in Gili Sulat, Lombok, Indonesia, against the backdrop of increasing recognition of mangrove ecosystems for their ecological significance and the role of ecotourism in promoting environmental stewardship. Given the urgent need for conservation amidst threats from climate change and deforestation, this research aims to assess how mangrove ecotourism can enhance environmental awareness and education among students, and foster a deeper understanding of sustainable practices. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the study engaged 22 fifth-semester Biology Education students from Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram, who participated in educational practicums within the Gili Sulat mangrove ecosystems. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews, focusing on the students' perceptions, experiences, and the educational value derived from their interactions with the mangrove environment. The findings underscore the immersive nature of ecotourism as a powerful educational tool, offering insights into the complexities of marine biodiversity, conservation efforts, and the critical role of mangroves in coastal protection and climate change mitigation. Conclusively, the study affirms the potential of mangrove ecotourism in Gili Sulat as an effective platform for fostering environmental stewardship, suggesting the need for enhanced educational programming, community involvement, and sustainable management practices to maximize its benefits.
Peningkatan kompetensi guru dalam pengelolaan pembelajaran berbasis literasi digital
Authors: Aminuddin Fattachul Huda , Djauhari Teuku , Santoso  , Gustinar  , Adinda S. Kasih , Kusuma Chandra
Published: March 2024

Kelompok Kerja Guru (KKG) Gugus Sartika merupakan suatu kelompok guru yang keberadaannya diharapkan menjadi wadah untuk meningkatkan kompetensi dan kemampuan guru serta menjadi motor dalam pengembangan guru khususnya di Desa Lubuk Ruso Kecamatan Pemayung Kabupaten Batang Hari. Namun saat ini keberadaanya masih belum maksimal dalam mendorong dan memotivasi guru untuk terus mengembangkan kualitas dan kompetensi dalam mengajar. Problematika saat ini yang dihadapi adalah rendahnya kemampuan dan kreatifitas guru dalam memanfaatkan teknologi dalam pembelajaran. Kurangnya kolaborasi antar guru dan minimnya fasilitas menjadi faktor penghambat dalam pengembangan kualitas guru. Tujuan pengabdian masyarakat ini adalah untuk meningkatkan kompetensi guru dalam pengelolaan pembelajaran berbasis pelatihan literasi digital. Kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini merupakan kegiatan yang didanai oleh kemdikbudristek tahun 2023. Metode yang digunakan adalah Community Based Participatory Action Research (CBPAR) yang dibagi menjadi 3 tahapan, yaitu persiapan, pelaksanaan, dan evaluasi. Adapun pelatihan literasi yang diterapkan adalah pelatihan konsep implementasi kurikulum merdeka belajar, pelatihan membuat video pembelajaran dengan canva, dan membuat quis interaktif dengan AI. Hasil kegiatan ini memberikan dampak positif dalam meningkatkan kompetensi literasi digital guru dengan rata-rata 20 %. Berdasarkan evaluasi kegiatan, adanya peningkatan target guru sebesar 82 % dari pelatihan sebelumnya. Kegiatan pengabdian secara keseluruhan mendapat respon dan stimulus yang baik ke depannya.
Pemanfaatan teknologi digital marketing untuk menunjang operasional mini-hidroponik berbasis energi terbarukan dan internet of things
Authors: Tanoto Yusak , Khoswanto Handry , Anggono Willyanto , Anggung Katlyn Maclain , Setiawan Vincentia Evangeline
Published: March 2024

Pengembangan income generation merupakan salah satu potensi yang dapat dikembangkan di Sekolah SMA Advent Surabaya dalam rangka pemberdayaan siswa, yang dapat diupayakan melalui pemanfaatan fasilitas dan sarana pembelajaran luar ruangan. Salah satu cara yang dapat dilakukan ditengah tantangan keterbatasan lahan di sekolah ini adalah menerapkan kombinasi metode pengembangan komunitas dan service learning, dimana salah satu aktivitanya adalah pelatihan pemanfaatan platform dan teknologi digital marketing yang diikuti oleh siswa pengurus OSIS untuk menunjang operasional mini-hidroponik berbasis energi terbarukan dan internet of things. Dalam kegiatan ini, wawasan siswa tentang konsep, metode dan contoh kegunaan teknologi digital marketing diuji dan dievaluasi. Salah satu indikasi keberhasilan pelatihan digital marketing yang terkait dengan pemahaman siswa tentang konsep dan kegunaan teknologi digital marketing sebagai sarana edukasi dan promosi hasil budidaya tanaman hidroponik adalah nilai post-test yang lebih baik daripada pre-test, di samping dihasilkannya desain konten poster Instagram yang menarik yang dibuat oleh kelompok siswa. Kegiatan pelatihan digital marketing telah berlangsung dengan baik dan memberikan manfaat bagi peserta menuju pengembangan komunitas sekolah yang mengelola sistem mini-hidroponik. Dalam konteks pemberdayaan siswa dan pengembangan sekolah, tim abdimas mengupayakan keberlanjutan capaian kegiatan melalui kerjasama dengan sekolah untuk mengadakan kegiatan pendampingan lanjutan dalam rangka pemanfaatan dan pengembangan instalasi mini-hidroponik.
Program inovasi produk dan penjualan e-commerce bagi pelaku usaha mikro kecil menengah (UMKM) batik
Authors: Muazza  , Asra Revis , Syuhada Siti , Mayasari
Published: March 2024

Pengabdian yang dilakukan oleh dosen FKIP Universitas Jambi  bekerjasama dengan pengrajin batik UMKM “Batik Istiqomah” agar dapat membuat suatu inovasi produk batik yang berkualitas dengan memanfaatkan kain batik perca bisa juga ditambah varian motif batik serta desain menjadi produk home decore yang dapat menarik minat dari konsumen batik dan dapat memasarkanya secara e-commerce, sehingga dapat mewujudkan laju keberlangsungan UMKM batik Jambi dan lebih mengenalkan batik Jambi secara luas. Untuk memperoleh data yang diperlukan lebih akurat dalam memecahkan permsaalahan yang dihadapi mitra dan mencapai tujuan dari kegiatan PkM ini digunakan metode agar program pelatihan inovasi produk dan penjualan e-commerce dari produk batik yang dihasilkan mitra dapat berjalan sesuai dengan target pengabdian ini maka metode yang digunakan Participatory Action Research (PAR) dengan pendekatan pelatihan melalui pendekatan klasikal, individual dan kolaboratif dengan metode cerah informatif, demonstrasi dan praktik. Hasil dari pengabdian ini berupa 1) Pelatihan inovasi produk perca batik yang tidak terpakai menjadi produk home decore seperti bantal sofa dan taplak meja; 2) Pelatihan penjualan e-commerce dalam pengabdian ini adalah pelatihan cara bagaimana memasarkan produk batik hasil dari UMKM khususnya Batik Istiqomah melalui media elektronik seperti shoppe, Lazada, Instagram dan lainya; 3) hasil evaluasi dan monitoring diketahui bahwa adanya pelatihan tersebut dapat membatu para pengrajin dalam kegiatan memproduksi membuat inovasi produk dari batik maupun proes penjualanya secara e-commerce.
K "OBVINĚNÍ" STÁTU IZRAEL ZE ZLOČINU APARTHEIDU
Authors: D' Evereux Veronika
Published: March 2024

Příspěvek je věnován otázce, zda se stát Izrael dopouští zločinu apartheidu z pohledu mezinárodního práva veřejného. Věnuje se definici zločinu apartheidu a identifikuje několik subjektů, které stát Izrael z tohoto zločinu viní. Dále je zkoumáno toto obvinění v kontextu tří případů jednání státu Izrael, které dle zprávy Human Rights Watch naplňuje skutkovou podstatu zločinu apartheidu. Jde zaprvé o omezení svobody pohybu palestinských obyvatel a omezení svobody v oblasti soukromého a rodinného života arabských občanů státu Izrael. Zadruhé, nemožnost repatriace palestinských uprchlíků a možnost ztráty povolení k trvalému pobytu arabských rezidentů Východního Jeruzaléma. Zatřetí, zákona o národním státě, který uvádí, že právo na národní sebeurčení je vyhrazeno pouze židovským obyvatelům státu Izrael. Příspěvek obsahuje analýzu těchto skutečností z pohledu platného mezinárodního práva.
CHANGES IN POLISH TAX LAW IN RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AGAINST THE COMPARATIVE LEGISLATIVE CHANGES IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC AND SLOVAKIA
Authors: Gajevski Dominik J. , Olczyk Adam
Published: March 2024

The article describes the most important characteristics of legislative changes made in the Polish tax law in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic. They undergo comparison with changes made in this branch of law in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. This juxtaposition serves the authors to show that the main trend was, in the first place, to suspend the deadlines in tax procedures. It was an ad hoc change and did not affect any significant changes in tax procedures in the long run. The authors also point to certain restraint of the Polish legislator as regards adoption of serious changes to substantive tax law during the period under examination and touch upon the issue of transferring certain competences (in terms of exemptions) from the legislative authority to: (1) local governments or (2) the executive branch.
From One Woman to Another: Transforming Gender through Wilderness in Female Travel Narratives
Authors: Rowland Shannagh
Published: March 2024

The Wilderness Act of 1964 defined wilderness through what is absent from its landscape: man. A space devoid of humans and thus, devoid of community, the wilderness initially emerges as a space without the social expectations accompanying community. A particular social expectation, however, remains: gender. The wilderness appears as a space that is not merely characterized as devoid of humans but more specifically, as one devoid of women. Considering these expectations of wilderness, this article poses the question: how does gender operate in this space? How does gender differ from its operations within society? When a woman travels into the wilderness, how does this influence her relationship to gender? Or quite simply: what does it mean to be the only woman in the wild? Conducting comparative readings of the travel memoirs Wild by Cheryl Strayed (2013) and Tracks by Robyn Davidson (2012), this article explores how the wilderness as a traditionally male space can become a space of resistance against societal gender roles for the female solo traveller through physical challenge and emotional healing. The investigation addresses how the authors succeeded in this resistance by engaging with the wilderness, along with the challenges presented to the female travellers by the barren landscapes. Finally, the article considers how Davidson and Strayed ultimately struggle to reconcile the new self formed in the wilderness with the old self of society once they complete their solo journeys.
Translation as Metonymy: Bijan Elahi’s Persian Variation on Cyrano de Bergerac
Authors: Tahmasebian Kayvan
Published: March 2024

In this article, I develop a model for world literature as a patchwork comprised of translations that cross boundaries of language, genre, style and culture. Through a close reading of the modernist Iranian poet Bijan Elahi’s (d. 2010) translations of a poem by the Sufi martyr and poet al-Ḥallāj (d. 922) and the play Cyrano de Bergerac by the French playwright Edmond Rostand (1868–1918), I demonstrate how translation can be used as a comparative method to conjoin, constellate and patch texts and ideas together regardless of their similarities or differences.
Conduct Disorders Characterised by Aggression Ireland Community Program
Authors: Mulligan Marian
Published: March 2024

The Integrated collaborative treatment program will aim to improve the understanding of how the forces of natural therapeutics may influence aggressive and anti-social and/or self-destructive behavior within high security prison community and outreach communities environment. Science has not yet developed a sound diagnostic base for conduct disorders and the treatment of violence. CMS will lead program evaluation research design and delivery of the program and benefit of ICTP process as an intervention for conduct disorders from pre-clinical assessment to treatment.
Nature, Gender, and Resistance in Atwood's Surfacing and The Handmaid's Tale
Authors: Ali J. Ridha’a , Sasani Samira
Published: March 2024

This study attempts to explain Margaret Atwood’s two famous novels Surfacing (1972) and The Handmaid’s Tale (1985) in reference to Ecofeminism. Women and nature are always celebrated with each other and wherever their position is absolutely neglected. As a result, the sterility of the society launches. Atwood selects females as the leading characters and ecological catastrophe in its contextual. Atwood knowledgeably syndicates in Surfacing and The Handmaid’s Tale the dual subjugation of nature and women that occurs in the two societies. The corruption of nature conveys extermination to the societies and develop a contributory dynamic of subjugation of women by patriarchal society. She clinches that the discrimination against women and nature is identical and thus liberation of women won’t be fruitful without an equivalent endeavor to liberate nature.
O uso dos Softwares Educativos no Ensino-Aprendizagem das quatro operações matemáticas
Authors: Tavares Marcelo Carvalho
Published: March 2024

O presente artigo apresenta uma experiência da utilização dos softwares educacionais GCompris e o TuxMath no aprimoramento do aprendizado dos alunos do 6º ano na matemática. Os resultados mostram um bom aproveitamento dos alunos e também foi possível constatar que após o uso dos softwares educacionais houve um interesse maior pela disciplina de matemática. Acredita-se que tal pesquisa trará contribuições significativas para a educação em relação ao uso de softwares educacionais.
The impact of increasing saline flush volume to reduce the amount of residual air in the delivery system of aortic prostheses—a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Szentiványi András , Borzsák Sarolta , Vecsey-Nagy Milán , Süvegh András , Hüttl Artúr , Fontanini Daniele Mariastefano , Szeberin Zoltán , Csobay-Novák Csaba
Published: March 2024

Background

Air embolism is a known risk during thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and is associated with an incomplete deairing of the delivery system despite the saline lavage recommended by the instructions for use (IFU). As the delivery systems are identical and residual air remains frequently in the abdominal aortic aneurysm sac, endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) can be used to examine the effectiveness of deairing maneuvers. We aimed to evaluate whether increasing the flush volume can result in a more complete deairing.

Methods

Patients undergoing EVAR were randomly assigned according to flushing volume (Group A, 1× IFU; Group B, 4× IFU). The Terumo Aortic Anaconda and Treo and Cook Zenith Alpha Abdominal stent grafts were randomly implanted in equal distribution (10-10-10). The quantity of air trapped in the aneurysm sac was measured using a pre-discharge computed tomography angiography (CTA). Thirty patients were enrolled and equally distributed between the two groups, with no differences observed in any demographic or anatomical factors.

Results

The presence of air was less frequent in Group A compared to that in Group B [7 (47%) vs. 13 (87%), p = .02], and the air volume was less in Group A compared to that in Group B (103.5 ± 210.4 vs. 175.5 ± 175.0 mm3, p = .04). Additionally, the volume of trapped air was higher with the Anaconda graft type (p = .025).

Discussion

These findings suggest that increased flushing volume is associated with a higher amount of trapped air; thus, following the IFU might be associated with a reduced risk of air embolization. Furthermore, significant differences were identified between devices in terms of the amount of trapped air.

Clinical trial registration

[NCT04909190], [ClinicalTrials.gov].
Improving shared decision making for lung cancer treatment by developing and validating an open-source web based patient decision aid for stage I–II non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Halilaj Iva , Ankolekar Anshu , Lenaers Anouk , Chatterjee Avishek , Oberije Cary J. G. , Eppings Lisanne , Smit Hans J. M. , Hendriks Lizza E. L. , Jochems Arthur , Lieverse Relinde I. Y. , van Timmeren Janita E. , Wind Anke , Lambin Philippe
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a proof-of-concept open-source individualized Patient Decision Aid (iPDA) with a group of patients, physicians, and computer scientists. The iPDA was developed based on the International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS). A previously published questionnaire was adapted and used to test the user-friendliness and content of the iPDA. The questionnaire contained 40 multiple-choice questions, and answers were given on a 5-point Likert Scale (1–5) ranging from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree.” In addition to the questionnaire, semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients. We performed a descriptive analysis of the responses. The iPDA was evaluated by 28 computer scientists, 21 physicians, and 13 patients. The results demonstrate that the iPDA was found valuable by 92% (patients), 96% (computer scientists), and 86% (physicians), while the treatment information was judged useful by 92%, 96%, and 95%, respectively. Additionally, the tool was thought to be motivating for patients to actively engage in their treatment by 92%, 93%, and 91% of the above respondents groups. More multimedia components and less text were suggested by the respondents as ways to improve the tool and user interface. In conclusion, we successfully developed and tested an iPDA for patients with stage I–II Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).
Indole-3-carboxyaldehyde does not reverse the intestinal effects of fiber-free diet in mice
Authors: Smits Mark M. , Dreyer Serafina I. L. , Hunt Jenna E. , Drzazga Anna K. , Modvig Ida M. , Holst Jens J. , Kissow Hannelouise
Published: March 2024

Objective

Fiber-free diet impairs intestinal and colonic health in mice, in parallel with a reduction in glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels. Endogenous GLP-1 is important for intestinal growth and maintenance of the intestinal integrity. We aimed to investigate whether fiber-free diet reduces luminal content of metabolites which, upon supplementation, could increase GLP-1 secretion and restore the adverse effects of fiber-free diet.

Methods

Untargeted metabolomics (LC-MS) was performed on colonic content of mice fed a fiber-free diet, identifying a metabolite of particular interest: indole-3-carboxyaldehyde (I3A). We exposed cultured GLUTag cells to I3A, and measured cumulative GLP-1 secretion. Isolated colon perfusions were performed in male C57BL/6JRj mice and Wistar rats. I3A was administered luminally or vascularly, and GLP-1 was measured in portal vein effluent. Finally, female C57BL/6JRJ mice were fed chow or fiber-free diet, with I3A or vehicle by oral gavage. After 10 days, plasma GLP-1 (ELISA) and intestinal permeability (FITC-dextran) were measured, animals were sacrificed and organs removed for histology.

Results

Mice fed a fiber-free diet had significantly lower I3A in their colonic content compared to a control diet (7883 ± 3375 AU, p=0.04). GLP-1 secretion from GLUTag cells was unchanged after five minutes of exposure to I3A. However, GLP-1 levels increased after 120 minutes of exposure to 1 mM (60% increase, p=0.016) and 5 mM (89% increase, p=0.0025) I3A. In contrast, 48 h exposure to 1 mM decreased GLP-1 secretion (51% decrease, p<0.001) and viability. In isolated perfused mouse and rat colon, I3A applied into the luminal or vascular side did not affect GLP-1 secretion. Mice fed a fiber-free diet tended to weigh less compared to chow fed mice; and the small intestine and colon were significantly smaller. No differences were seen in crypt depth, villus length, mucosal area, and intestinal permeability. Supplementing I3A did not affect body weight, morphology or plasma GLP-1 levels.

Conclusions

Fiber-free diet lowered colonic content of I3A in mice. I3A stimulates GLP-1 secretion in vitro, but not in animal studies. Moreover, it has no evident beneficial effect on intestinal health when administered in vivo.
Enhancing pest control interventions by linking species distribution model prediction and population density assessment of pine wilt disease vectors in South Korea
Authors: Kim Inyoo , Nam Youngwoo , Park Sinyoung , Cho Wonhee , Choi Kwanghun , Ko Dongwook W.
Published: March 2024

Pine wilt disease caused by pinewood nematode is one of the most destructive forest diseases, and still spreading in South Korea despite the various control efforts. Japanese pine sawyer (JPS) and Sakhalin pine sawyer (SPS) are the main vectors of the disease. Understanding the distribution and density of the vectors is crucial since the control period is determined by the different emergence periods of the two vectors and the control method by its density and the expected damage severity. In this study, we predicted the distribution of JPS and SPS using Maxent and investigated the relationship between the resulting suitability value and the density. The population densities of JPS and SPS were obtained through a national survey using pheromone traps between 2020-2022. We converted the density data into presence/absence points to externally validate each species distribution model, then we used quantile regression to check the correlation between the suitability and population density, and finally we used three widely used thresholds to convert the model results into binary maps, and tested if they could distinguish the density by comparing the Rb value of biserial correlation. The quantile regression revealed a positive relationship between the habitat suitability and population density sampled in the field. Moreover, the binary map with threshold criteria that maximizes the sum of the sensitivity and specificity had the best density discrimination capacity with the highest Rb. A quantitative relationship between suitability and vector density measured in the field from our study provides reliability to species distribution model as practical tools for forest pest management.
MHIF-MSEA: a novel model of miRNA set enrichment analysis based on multi-source heterogeneous information fusion
Authors: Li Jianwei , Ma Xuxu , Lin Hongxin , Zhao Shisheng , Li Bing , Huang Yan
Published: March 2024

Introduction: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in the regulation of diverse biological processes across various organisms. Despite not encoding proteins, miRNAs have been found to have significant implications in the onset and progression of complex human diseases.

Methods: Conventional methods for miRNA functional enrichment analysis have certain limitations, and we proposed a novel method called MiRNA Set Enrichment Analysis based on Multi-source Heterogeneous Information Fusion (MHIF-MSEA). Three miRNA similarity networks (miRSN-DA, miRSN-GOA, and miRSN-PPI) were constructed in MHIF-MSEA. These networks were built based on miRNA-disease association, gene ontology (GO) annotation of target genes, and protein-protein interaction of target genes, respectively. These miRNA similarity networks were fused into a single similarity network with the averaging method. This fused network served as the input for the random walk with restart algorithm, which expanded the original miRNA list. Finally, MHIF-MSEA performed enrichment analysis on the expanded list.

Results and Discussion: To determine the optimal network fusion approach, three case studies were introduced: colon cancer, breast cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The experimental results revealed that the miRNA-miRNA association network constructed using miRSN-DA and miRSN-GOA exhibited superior performance as the input network. Furthermore, the MHIF-MSEA model performed enrichment analysis on differentially expressed miRNAs in breast cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. The achieved p-values were 2.17e(-75) and 1.50e(-77), and the hit rates improved by 39.01% and 44.68% compared to traditional enrichment analysis methods, respectively. These results confirm that the MHIF-MSEA method enhances the identification of enriched miRNA sets by leveraging multiple sources of heterogeneous information, leading to improved insights into the functional implications of miRNAs in complex diseases.
Toll-like receptor 4 in pancreatic damage and immune infiltration in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Mattke Jordan , Darden Carly M. , Lawrence Michael C. , Kuncha Jayachandra , Shah Yumna Ali , Kane Robert R. , Naziruddin Bashoo
Published: March 2024

Acute pancreatitis is a complex inflammatory disease resulting in extreme pain and can result in significant morbidity and mortality. It can be caused by several factors ranging from genetics, alcohol use, gall stones, and ductal obstruction caused by calcification or neutrophil extracellular traps. Acute pancreatitis is also characterized by immune cell infiltration of neutrophils and M1 macrophages. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is a pattern recognition receptor that has been noted to respond to endogenous ligands such as high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein and or exogenous ligands such as lipopolysaccharide both of which can be present during the progression of acute pancreatitis. This receptor can be found on a variety of cell types from endothelial cells to resident and infiltrating immune cells leading to production of pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as immune cell activation and maturation resulting in the furthering of pancreatic damage during acute pancreatitis. In this review we will address the various mechanisms mediated by TLR4 in the advancement of acute pancreatitis and how targeting this receptor could lead to improved outcomes for patients suffering from this condition.
Marine thraustochytrid: exploration from taxonomic challenges to biotechnological applications
Authors: Wang Qiuzhen , Zhang Yong , Hui Ruixue , Zhu Yuanxiang
Published: March 2024

Thraustochytrids, as a distinct group of heterotrophic protists, have garnered considerable attention owing to their remarkable adaptability in extreme marine environments, pronounced capacity for metabolic regulation and prolific production of high-value metabolites. The taxonomic classification of these microorganisms presents a substantial challenge due to the variability in morphological characteristics under different culture conditions. And this undermines the efficacy of traditional classification systems on physiological and biochemical traits. The establishment of a polyphasic taxonomic system integrating genomic characteristics in the future will provide new avenues for more accurate classification and identification. Thraustochytrids can effectively accumulate bioactive substances such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), squalene and carotenoids. Through fermentation optimization and genetic modification, scientists have significantly enhanced the production of these metabolites. Moreover, the application of thraustochytrids in aquaculture, poultry and livestock feed has significantly improved animal growth and physiological indicators meanwhile increasing their DHA content. Natural bioactive substances in thraustochytrids, such as terpenoid compounds with antioxidant properties, have been proposed for application in the cosmetics industry. In the field of pharmacology, thraustochytrids have shown certain anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities and provide potential for the development of new oral vaccines. Additionally, they can degrade various industrial and agricultural wastes for growth and fatty acid production, demonstrating their potential in environmental bioremediation. Therefore, thraustochytrids not only exhibit tremendous application potential in the field of biotechnology, but also hold significant value in environmental protection and commercialization.
Endovascular treatment of symptomatic severe intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis with a novel intracranial dedicated drug-eluting stent: a more effective treatment approach
Authors: Ma Lin , Wang Fei , Feng Hao , Yan Shuo , Xu Ji-Chong , Cheng Ying-Sheng , Fang Chun
Published: March 2024

Background

Endovascular treatment of severe intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) using coronary drug-eluting stents (DESs) significantly reduces the risk of in-stent restenosis (ISR) and stroke recurrence. However, there are few reports regarding the treatment of ICAS with intracranial dedicated DES. Herein, we present our experience with the feasibility, safety, and medium-term follow-up outcomes of a novel intracranial DES, named NOVA stent, in patients with symptomatic severe ICAS (≥70%).

Methods

From December 2021 to May 2022, patients with symptomatic severe ICAS who underwent implantation of the NOVA stent in our institution were retrospectively analyzed for procedural results, perioperative complications, imaging and clinical follow-up outcomes.

Results

Twenty-four patients, 16 (66.7%) with anterior circulation lesions and 8 (33.3%) with posterior circulation lesions, were enrolled. All patients with intracranial ICA (n = 6), middle cerebral artery (n = 10), basilar artery (n = 3), intracranial vertebral artery (n = 3), and the vertebrobasilar junction (n = 2) stenosis were treated successfully using NOVA stents. The severity of stenosis ranged from 75 to 96% (mean 85.9%) before treatment and this was reduced to 0 to 20% (mean 8.6%) immediately after stent placement. Symptomatic distal embolism occurred in one case; however, there were no other perioperative complications. The mean follow-up duration was 12.2 ± 1.06 months. No symptomatic ischemic events occurred during follow-up. Follow-up cerebral angiography was performed in 22 of 24 patients (91.7%), and significant ISR occurred in one patient (4.2%).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that implantation of the novel intracranial DES NOVA in severe ICAS is feasible, safe, and effective in selected cases, reducing the incidence of ISR, and showing excellent midterm clinical outcomes, providing a promising option for ICAS treatment.
TNF-α is a predictive marker in distinguishing myeloproliferative neoplasm and idiopathic erythrocytosis/thrombocytosis: development and validation of a non-invasive diagnostic model
Authors: Wang Zhenhao , Mei Yu , Yang Zhuming , Gao Qiang , Xu Hao , Han Zhiqiang , Hong Zhenya
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Philadelphia-chromosome negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) exhibit phenotypic similarities with JAK/STAT-unmutated idiopathic erythrocytosis and thrombocytosis (IE/IT). We aimed to develop a clinical diagnostic model to discern MPN and IE/IT.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed on 77 MPN patients and 32 IE/IT patients in our center from January 2018 to December 2023. We investigated the role of hemogram, cytokine and spleen size in differentiating MPN and IE/IT among newly onset erythrocytosis and thrombocytosis patients. Independent influencing factors were integrated into a nomogram for individualized risk prediction. The calibration and discrimination ability of the model were evaluated by concordance index (C-index), calibration curve.

Results

MPN had significantly higher TNF-α level than IE/IT, and the TNF-α level is correlated with MF-grade. Multivariable analyses revealed that TNF-α, PLT count, age, size of spleen were independent diagnostic factors in differentiating MPN and IE/IT. Nomograms integrated the above 4 factors for differentiating MPN and IE/IT was internally validated and had good performance, the C-index of the model is 0.979.

Conclusion

The elevation of serum TNF-α in MPN patients is of diagnostic significance and is correlated with the severity of myelofibrosis. The nomogram incorporating TNF-α with age, PLT count and spleen size presents a noteworthy tool in the preliminary discrimination of MPN patients and those with idiopathic erythrocytosis or thrombocytosis. This highlights the potential of cytokines as biomarkers in hematologic disorders.
Integrating UPLC-Q-Orbitrap MS with serum pharmacochemistry network and experimental verification to explore the pharmacological mechanisms of Cynanchi stauntonii rhizoma et radix against sepsis-induced acute lung injury
Authors: Gao Hejun , Yuan Ziyi , Liang Haoxuan , Liu Youtan
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Patients with sepsis are at an incremental risk of acute lung injury (ALI). Baiqian, also known as Cynanchi stauntonii rhizoma et radix (Csrer), has anti-inflammatory properties and is traditionally used to treat cough and phlegm. This study aimed to demonstrate the multicomponent, multitarget, and multi-pathway regulatory molecular mechanisms of Csrer in treating lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI.

Methods: The bioactive components of Csrer were identified by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography Q-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap MS). Active targets predicted from PharmMapper. DrugBank, OMIM, TTD, and GeneCards were used to identify potential targets related to ALI. Intersection genes were identified for Csrer against ALI. The PPI network was analysed to identify prime targets. GO and KEGG analyses were performed. A drug–compound–target–pathway–disease network was constructed. Molecular docking and simulations evaluated the binding free energy between key proteins and active compounds. The protective effect and mechanism of Csrer in ALI were verified using an ALI model in mice. Western blot, Immunohistochemistry and TUNEL staining evaluated the mechanisms of the pulmonary protective effects of Csrer.

Results: Forty-six bioactive components, one hundred and ninety-two potential cross-targets against ALI and ten core genes were identified. According to GO and KEGG analyses, the PI3K-Akt, apoptosis and p53 pathways are predominantly involved in the “Csrer–ALI” network. According to molecular docking and dynamics simulations, ten key genes were firmly bound by the principal active components of Csrer. The “Csrer–ALI” network was revealed to be mediated by the p53-mediated apoptosis and inflammatory pathways in animal experiments.

Conclusion: Csrer is a reliable source for ALI treatment based on its practical components, potential targets and pathways.
Endophytic Bacillus vallismortis and Bacillus tequilensis bacteria isolated from medicinal plants enhance phosphorus acquisition and fortify Brassica napus L. vegetative growth and metabolic content
Authors: Nagah Aziza , El-Sheekh Mostafa M. , Arief Omnia M. , Alqahtani Mashael Daghash , Alharbi Basmah M. , Dawwam Ghada E.
Published: March 2024

Phosphorus fertilization imposes critical limitations on crop productivity and soil health. The aim of the present work is to explore the potential of two phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) species in phosphorus supplementation of canola (Brassica napusL.). Out of 38 bacterial isolates obtained from nine medicinal plants, two bacterial strains (20P and 28P) were proved as the most potent for thein-vitrotricalcium phosphate solubilization test. These isolates verified their activity toward different enzymes as nitrogenase and alkaline phosphatase. Also, 20P and 28P gave a high amount of indole-3-acetic acid, 34.16 μg/ml and 35.20 μg/ml, respectively, and were positive for siderophores production as they detected moderate affinity for iron chelation. Molecular identification confirmed that strain 20P wasBacillus vallismortisand strain 28P wasBacillus tequilensis. A pot experiment was conducted to study the effect of four different phosphorus concentrations (0%, 50%, 75%, and 100% P) each alone and/or in combination withB. vallismortis,B. tequilensis, or both bacterial isolates on the vegetative growth and some physiological parameters of canola. The combined treatment of 50% phosphorus + (B. vallismortis+B. tequilensis) was generally the most effective with respect to shoot height, shoot dry mass, leaf area, photosynthetic pigment fractions, total sugar content, and accumulated NPK content. In contrast, the rhizosphere pH reached the minimum value under the same treatment. These findings highlighted the potential use of PSB (B. vallismortisandB. tequilensis) along with phosphorus fertilization as a safe sustainable tactic.
Meta-analysis of public RNA sequencing data of abscisic acid-related abiotic stresses in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Shintani Mitsuo , Tamura Keita , Bono Hidemasa
Published: March 2024

Abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and cold negatively affect plant growth and crop productivity. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying plant responses to these stressors is essential for stress tolerance in crops. The plant hormone abscisic acid (ABA) is significantly increased upon abiotic stressors, inducing physiological responses to adapt to stress and regulate gene expression. Although many studies have examined the components of established stress signaling pathways, few have explored other unknown elements. This study aimed to identify novel stress-responsive genes in plants by performing a meta-analysis of public RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data in Arabidopsis thaliana, focusing on five ABA-related stress conditions (ABA, Salt, Dehydration, Osmotic, and Cold). The meta-analysis of 216 paired datasets from five stress conditions was conducted, and differentially expressed genes were identified by introducing a new metric, called TN [stress-treated (T) and non-treated (N)] score. We revealed that 14 genes were commonly upregulated and 8 genes were commonly downregulated across all five treatments, including some that were not previously associated with these stress responses. On the other hand, some genes regulated by salt, dehydration, and osmotic treatments were not regulated by exogenous ABA or cold stress, suggesting that they may be involved in the plant response to dehydration independent of ABA. Our meta-analysis revealed a list of candidate genes with unknown molecular mechanisms in ABA-dependent and ABA-independent stress responses. These genes could be valuable resources for selecting genome editing targets and potentially contribute to the discovery of novel stress tolerance mechanisms and pathways in plants.
Distinct differences of vertical phytoplankton community structure in mainstream and a tributary bay of the Three Gorges Reservoir, China
Authors: Wang Lan , Tan Lu , Cai Qinghua
Published: March 2024

The vertical distribution of phytoplankton plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics and structure of aquatic communities. In highly dynamic reservoir systems, water level fluctuations significantly affect the physiochemical conditions and the phytoplankton community. However, the specific effects on the vertical characteristics of phytoplankton between the mainstream and the tributary bay of the reservoir remain unstudied. This study investigated the vertical aspects of phytoplankton density, biomass, α and β diversity through monthly sampling over two years in the mainstream (Chang Jiang, CJ) and a tributary bay (Xiang Xi, XX) of the Three Gorges Reservoir in China. Phytoplankton density and biomass were significantly higher in XX, indicating an increased risk of algal blooms in the tributary. The phytoplankton community in CJ showed more stable species-environment relationships, a lower Shannon index and a higher evenness index, suggesting a relatively simple structure and a more uniform distribution of phytoplankton among different water layers. Conversely, XX showed greater differences between water layers (higher β diversity), with significant negative correlations with water level and positive correlations with DO difference, dissolved silica (DSi) difference, and stratification. Peak phytoplankton density and biomass, as well as high β diversity in XX, occurred during periods of decreased water levels with strong stratification in spring and summer. A structural equation model complemented by path analysis revealed that a decrease in water level could increase β diversity either directly through internal processes with extended residence time or indirectly by modifying stratification and the vertical distribution of DSi in XX. Therefore, a proposed water quality management strategy for XX was to increase the water level or reduce β diversity by implementing artificial mixing during stratification periods. Overall, this study lies in its comprehensive investigation of the vertical characteristics of the phytoplankton community in both the mainstream and the tributary bay of the Three Gorges Reservoir, elucidating the significant impact of water level fluctuations and providing insights for targeted water quality management strategies in the tributary bay to mitigate potential ecological impacts.
Psychometric evaluation of the Chinese version of the burnout syndrome assessment scale in nurses
Authors: Xie Wenguang , Lu Tingting , Huang Xundong , Zhang Chao , Choudhary Mahima , Kumar Ashok
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study aimed to translate the Burnout Syndrome Assessment Scale (BOSAS) into Chinese and validate its reliability and validity among Chinese emergency department and ICU nurses.

Methods

The scale was translated into Chinese using Brislin’s translation principle. A total of 626 nurses from Jiangxi, Zhejiang, and Fujian provinces in China participated in an online questionnaire survey. The survey included the general information questionnaire for nurses developed by the research team and the Chinese version of the Burnout Syndrome Assessment Scale. Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the scale were analyzed using SPSS.25 and AMOS.24 software.

Results

The Chinese version of the Burnout Syndrome Assessment Scale consists of a total of 20 items, encompassing two dimensions: personal burnout and job burnout. This structure is consistent with the original English version of the scale. The Chinese version of BOSAS demonstrated high internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s α coefficient of 0.941. Additionally, the scale exhibited good split-half reliability (0.765) and test-retest reliability (0.871). The content validity index (S-CVI) was 0.971, indicating strong content validity. Exploratory factor analysis confirmed the same 2-factor structure as the original scale, and confirmatory factor analysis further validated this structure, with all fit indices indicating appropriateness.

Conclusion

The Burnout Syndrome Assessment Scale has been successfully introduced and its reliability and validity have been verified in Chinese emergency department and ICU nurses.
Clinical differences between outpatients with and without internet addiction and emotional disorders: a prospective naturalistic outcome study
Authors: Zhou Jiaqi , Rosmarin David H. , Pirutinsky Steven
Published: March 2024

Background/Objective

as internet use becomes increasingly ingrained in contemporary society, internet addiction (IA) has emerged as a global public health concern. There is ongoing debate regarding whether IA represents a distinct psychological disorder or a secondary manifestation of other existing disorders. This study aimed to examine the pathological relationship between IA and emotional disorders (ED).

Method

this study compared pre-treatment characteristics and treatment process of three groups of patients (N=1292) in a naturalistic treatment setting: IA only, ED only, and comorbidity of IA and ED.

Results

the IA only group differed from the other groups by reporting the highest levels of life satisfaction, adaptive emotion regulation, as well as risk behavior urges at intake. In addition, the IA only group displayed the lowest level of depressive and anxiety symptoms throughout the treatment.

Conclusion

our findings contribute to a better understanding of the discreteness of IA as a potential psychological disorder and inform more effective treatment strategies for IA and its comorbid conditions.
Epidemiology of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli and impact on the growth of children in the first two years of life in Lima, Peru
Authors: Pajuelo Monica J. , Noazin Sassan , Cabrera Lilia , Toledo Angie , Velagic Mirza , Arias Lucero , Ochoa Mayra , Moulton Lawrence H. , Saito Mayuko , Gilman Robert H. , Chakraborty Subhra
Published: March 2024

Background

Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) is a leading cause of diarrheal morbidity and mortality in children, although the data on disease burden, epidemiology, and impact on health at the community level are limited.

Methods

In a longitudinal birth cohort study of 345 children followed until 24 months of age in Lima, Peru, we measured ETEC burden in diarrheal and non-diarrheal samples using quantitative PCR (LT, STh, and STp toxin genes), studied epidemiology and measured anthropometry in children.

Results

About 70% of children suffered from one or more ETEC diarrhea episodes. Overall, the ETEC incidence rate (IR) was 73 per 100 child-years. ETEC infections began early after birth causing 10% (8.9–11.1) ETEC-attributable diarrheal burden at the population level (PAF) in neonates and most of the infections (58%) were attributed to ST-ETEC [PAF 7.9% (1.9–13.5)] and LT + ST-ETEC (29%) of which all the episodes were associated with diarrhea. ETEC infections increased with age, peaking at 17% PAF (4.6–27.7%; p = 0.026) at 21 to 24 months. ST-ETEC was the most prevalent type (IR 32.1) with frequent serial infections in a child. The common colonization factors in ETEC diarrhea cases were CFA/I, CS12, CS21, CS3, and CS6, while in asymptomatic ETEC cases were CS12, CS6 and CS21. Only few (5.7%) children had repeated infections with the same combination of ETEC toxin(s) and CFs, suggested genotype-specific immunity from each infection. For an average ETEC diarrhea episode of 5 days, reductions of 0.060 weight-for-length z-score (0.007 to 0.114; p = 0.027) and 0.061 weight-for-age z-score (0.015 to 0.108; p = 0.009) were noted in the following 30 days.

Conclusion

This study showed that ETEC is a significant pathogen in Peruvian children who experience serial infections with multiple age-specific pathotypes, resulting in transitory growth impairment.