bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perencanaan dan Estimasi Biaya Box Culvert di Ruas Jalan Tetewatu, Konawe Utara
Authors: Minmahddun Anafi
Published: February 2025

The development of road infrastructure in Indonesia, including bridges, is a top priority to drive sustainable economic growth. Roads and bridges play an important role in accelerating the transportation of goods, supporting agriculture, and reducing economic disparities between regions. This study focuses on the planning of box culvert construction on Jalan Tetewatu, North Konawe Regency, and Southeast Sulawesi. This location has an emergency wooden bridge that is inadequate for smooth transportation. The research method includes investigating existing conditions, collecting supporting data, and analyzing box culverts. The planned box culvert is a double type with a wet cross-section dimension of 3.00 m x 3.00 m, which will replace the existing emergency bridge. The budget plan (RAB) for this project reaches IDR 2,008,090,000. This study concludes that replacing the emergency bridge with a box culvert will improve the safety and smoothness of transportation, as well as support local economic growth.
Analisis Peningkatan Temperatur (Pasca Bakar) Terhadap Kuat Tekan Beton Normal
Authors: Rambak Ezra Pasereng , Rahman La , Darwis Mardis , Minmahddun Anafi
Published: February 2025

Dalam dunia teknik sipil peran ahli struktur sangat dibutuhkan dalam menangani gedung pasca bakar. Bagaimana menaksir temperatur tertinggi yang pernah dialami, menaksir kekuatan sisa bangunan, dan mengusulkan teknik perbaikan struktur. Penelitian ini diharapkan mampu memprediksi kekuatan sisa struktur beton, serta mengupayakan suatu rehabilitasi dengan perbaikan jika memungkinkan atau melakukan rekonstruksi/ membongkar secara keseluruhan gedung jika struktur sudah tidak memungkinkan untuk diperbaiki.
Langkah awal yang dilakukan didalam perencanaan ini adalah mengumpulkan data-data dan teori yang berhubungan dengan penelitian ini. Kemudian melakukan pemeriksaan material apakah material tersebut masuk dalam standar perencanaan. Benda uji yang dibuat sesuai dengan peraturan beton bertulang indonesia 2019. Setelah itu melakukan perawatan benda uji dengan umur 28 hari, kemudian pengujian kuat tekan dilakukan sebelum dibakar dan sesudah dibakar.
Dari hasil pengujian didapatkan bahwa beton yang telah dipanasi dengan suhu 600°C selama 2 jam kuat tekan rata-rata tersisa 48,8% dan selama 4 jam kuat tekan rata-rata tersisa 40,1% jadi penurunan yang terjadi sekitar 50% dari kuat tekan beton normal. Dalam kasus seperti ini sebaiknya gedung yang mengalami kebakaran ≥600°C dengan interval yang cukup lama sebaiknya dilakukan rekonstruksi atau pembongkaran gedung, karena kapasitas strukturnya sudah tidak mampu menahan beban yang harus dipikul. Salah satu metode perbaikan struktur adalah dengan sistem concrete jacketing.
Pendidikan Vokasional Teknik Konstruksi Gedung dalam Perspektif Kurikulum Merdeka di Indonesia
Authors: Kimsan Masykur
Published: February 2025

Vocational education in building construction technology has rapidly advanced since the 2000s, driven by industry demands for a skilled and adaptable workforce capable of responding to the latest technological advancements. Technological shifts, globalization, and demographic changes have spurred innovation in curricula and teaching methods, with the “Kurikulum Merdeka” providing the necessary flexibility to align education with industry needs. However, challenges such as institutional readiness and access to technology must be addressed through collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and the industrial sector. The diversity in educational levels within vocational building construction programs can become a strength if effectively managed through appropriate curricula and teaching strategies. The disparity in human resource quality between urban and remote areas hampers the implementation of Kurikulum Merdeka, necessitating cooperation among the government, private sector, and communities to enhance human resource quality and educational infrastructure. Balancing pragmatism, which emphasizes practical skills, with idealism, which focuses on ethics, is crucial for producing graduates who are both job-ready and possess strong integrity. Educational challenges include academic dishonesty and rigid conversion of vocational practices into a 20-credit system, potentially diminishing educational quality and graduate preparedness. Flexible regulations and approaches such as project-based learning and competency-based assessments are essential to adapting curricula to industry and technological needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are key to ensuring the relevance of education in meeting labor market demands
Desain Transportasi Massal Dalam Kampus (Bus Kampus) Guna Mendukung Universitas Halu Oleo Sebagai Kampus Hijau
Authors: Makmur Muammar , Razak Erich Nov Putra , Mappa Nashrun  , Wiranago
Published: February 2025

Transportasi massal dalam kampus telah menjadi topik yang semakin penting dalam mobilitas perkotaan dan keberlanjutan lingkungan. Dalam upaya untuk memperkuat komitmen lingkungan dan memberikan solusi mobilitas yang efisien bagi mahasiswa, staf, dan pengunjung, Universitas Halu Oleo perlu mempertimbangkan pengoperasian bus kampus sebagai bagian dari strategi kampus hijau. Kehadiran bus kampus di Universitas Halu Oleo akan menjadi langkah signifikan dalam mendukung visi kampus hijau. Bus kampus tidak hanya dapat membantu mengurangi jumlah kendaraan pribadi yang masuk ke dalam kampus, tetapi juga mengurangi emisi gas rumah kaca dan menciptakan lingkungan kampus yang lebih bersih dan sehat. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mendesain transportasi massal dalam kampus, khususnya pengoperasian bus kampus, yang sesuai dengan visi Universitas Halu Oleo sebagai kampus hijau. Penelitian ini merupakan jenis penelitian deskriptif, kuantitatif, dan perencanaan yang bertujuan untuk menggambarkan, menganalisis, serta merancang sistem transportasi berbasis bus di lingkungan kampus Universitas Haluoleo. Berdasarkan hasil perencanaan dua rute bus kampus Universitas Halu Oleo masing masing dengan panjang 3.423 m dan 3.589 m. Terdapat 17 titik halte yang terbagi pada dua rute, 9 titik halte pada rute A dan 8 titik halte pada rute B. Dibutuhkan 8 unit bus pada rute A dan 7 unit bus pada rute B yang berukuran sedang dengan kapasitas 30 penupang. Biaya operasional bus pada rute A dan Rute B adalah Rp. 2.307.666,00 dalam sehari, Rp. 55.383.991,00 dalam sebulan dan Rp. 664.607.895,00 dalam satu tahun..
Tinjauan Kinerja Struktur Dinding Bata Berdasarkan SNI 1726-2019 Untuk Bangunan Bertingkat Rendah Menggunakan Pendekatan Diagonal Tekan Ekuivalen
Authors: Rahman La , Darwis Mardis , Minmahddun Anafi , Adityawan Muh. Handy Dwi , Rambak Ezra Pasereng , Raja Agung H.S.
Published: February 2025

Dalam analisis struktur, pengaruh dinding bata dalam menentukan kinerja seismik struktur seringkali diabaikan. Namun, beberapa penelitian memperlihatkan bahwa kinerja seismik struktur akan meningkat akibat adanya dinding bata, khususnya untuk dinding bata yang menggunakan tulangan. Berdasarkan SNI 1726-2019, dinding bata bertulang dapat digunakan sebagai sistem struktur alternatif untuk menggantikan struktur dengan sistem rangka pemikul momen khusus (SRPMK) yang memiliki pendetailan yang rumit, khususnya untuk bangunan bertingkat rendah. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk membandingkan kinerja bangunan bertingkat rendah yang menggunakan sistem rangka pemikul momen khusus dengan sistem struktur dengan dinding bata. Dinding bata dimodelkan dengan menggunakan pendekatan diagonal tekan ekuivalen dari FEMA 356 dan metode Holmes dengan sistem rangkanya mengacu pada aturan penulangan sistem rangka pemikul momen menengah (SRPMM). Hasil analisis memperlihatkan bahwa meskipun menggunakan aturan penulangan SRPMM, sistem struktur dengan dinding bata memiliki kinerja seismik yang lebih baik dibandingkan dengan sistem struktur SRPMK. Sehingga, struktur bangunan bertingkat rendah yang berada pada lokasi seismik tinggi tidak mesti didesain menggunakan aturan SRPMK, tetapi dapat menggunakan aturan penulangan SRPMM dengan memasukkan pengaruh dinding bata pada proses analisis.
Evaluasi Kapasitas Struktur Eksisting Akibat Perubahan Fungsi Bangunan (Studi Kasus Gedung Tribun AA Rifai Kabupaten Bombana)
Authors: Muhammad Rizal  , Rahmin  , Masykur Kimsan
Published: February 2025

Gedung Tribun AA Rifai dibangun pada tahun 2021 akan dilanjutkan konstruksinya dengan fungsi baru pada lantai 2, yaitu sebagai ruangan multi fungsi (rapat dan pertemuan). Oleh karena itu, diperlukan analisa terhadap kapasitas struktur eksisting dalam memikul rencana beban tambahan akibat perubahan fungsi. Dalam penelitian ini dilakukan pengambilan data berupa dimensi struktur, mutu material menggunakan metode NDT (Non Destructive Test) dan analisa struktur menggunakan perangkat lunak Metode Elemen Hingga. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi yang telah dilakukan diperoleh simpulan yaitu, pondasi, pelat dan balok anak masih mampu untuk memikul beban rencana, sedangkan balok induk dan kolom tidak mampu memikul beban tambahan akibat perubahan fungsi. Untuk mendapatkan kapasitas yang diperlukan, maka perlu dilakukan penambahan pondasi, kolom dan perkuatan kolom eksisting.
Analisis Kerusakan Jalan Chairil Anwar dengan Metode Pavement Condition Index (PCI)
Authors: Soeparyanto Try Sugiyarto , Kadir Ishak , Karamasa Anawaydicyta Iv , Andri Andri , Rahayu Putri Indah
Published: February 2025

Jalan Chairil Anwar merupakan jalan yang memiliki peranan penting masyarakat Kota Kendari. Tidak hanya penting bagi warga kota Kendari, jalan ini pula turut berperan penting bagi Kabupaten Konawe dan Kabupaten Konawe Utara. Sebagai penghubung antar kota/kabupaten bahkan provinsi, jalan ini sering dimanfaatkan untuk pengembangan ekonomi dan sosial. Dari segi ekonomi, jalan ini menjadi short cut bagi pengangkutan barang dan jasa, sehingga mampu memotong biaya transportasi barang/ logistik. Namun, karena kondisi perkerasan yang mulai mengalami kerusakan dibeberapa titik, dibutuhkan analisis kerusakan perkerasan untuk selanjutnya dijadikan input bagi instansi terkait untuk melakukan perawatan/perbaikan. Jalan ini memiliki panjang 1 KM, dua jalur dengan lebar masing-masing 6,9 meter. Metode PCI merupakan salah satu metode praktis dalam menganalisis kerusakan perkerasan jalan. Dengan menghitung dimensi kerusakan, mengidentifikasi tipe kerusakan serta menganalisis data penelitian ditemukan bahwa secara rata-rata dengan metode PCI, jalan ini memiliki kondisi kategori cukup (fair) pada kedua jalur, kiri dan kanan. Meskipun secara rata-rata memiliki kondisi cukup (fair), namun pada STA tertentu seperti pada jalur kanan STA 0+200 sampai dengan 0+800 dan jalur kiri STA 0+000 sampai dengan 0+500 ditemukan kerusakan perkerasan yang signifikan dengan rentang PCI pada jalur kiri 27 hingga 35, sedangkan 35 untuk PCI pada jalur kanan, yang mengakibatkan kurang nyamannya perjalanan yang mungkin akan dirasakan oleh pengguna jalan. Sehingga, untuk segmen ini perlu dilakukan perawatan berkala/ penanganan lanjut oleh instansi terkait.
Analisis Perbandingan Metode Fast Track Dan Metode Crashing Terhadap Efisiensi Biaya Dan Aktivitas Waktu Pelaksanaan
Authors: Fitriah Fitriah , Mustika Wayan , Talanipa Romy , Ramadhan Syahrul
Published: February 2025

Pembangunan proyek memerlukan sumber daya manusia, material, peralatan, metode, uang, informasi, dan waktu, dengan tiga aspek penting, yaitu waktu, biaya, dan mutu (Kerzner, 2006). Meskipun mutu harus tetap dijaga, namun sering terjadi pembengkakan biaya dan keterlambatan waktu (Praboyo, 1999) yang dapat menurunkan efisiensi dan nilai kompetitif pengembang (Mora dan Li, 2001). Lokasi penelitian adalah Proyek Rehabilitasi D.I Wawotobi, Kabupaten Konawe (Paket-2) oleh PT. Pembangunan Perumahan (Persero) Tbk – PT. Jaya Konstruksi Manggala Pratama Tbk KSO. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis percepatan proyek dengan metode Fast Track dan Crashing, mengukur persentase durasi dan biaya proyek, serta menilai metode mana yang lebih efektif untuk proyek ini. Penelitian menggunakan metode Fast Track dan Crashing, metode Fast Track menata ulang aktivitas pekerjaan secara paralel tanpa mempengaruhi biaya, sedangkan metode Crashing mengurangi waktu proyek secara terstruktur dan logis dari kegiatan proyek. Berdasarkan hasil analisis, Fast Track mempercepat penyelesaian proyek sebesar 2,04% (5 hari) dan menghemat biaya sebesar 0,05% (Rp 42.950.813), sedangkan Crashing mempercepat penyelesaian proyek sebesar 18,78% (46 hari) dan menghemat biaya sebesar 1,01% (Rp 817.060.274). Metode Crashing lebih efektif dalam mengurangi durasi dan biaya proyek.
Transdisciplinary approach to accelerate the adoption of hybrid renewable energy systems through sustainable design
Authors: Babatunde Olubayo , Akintayo Busola , Ighravwe Desmond , Olanrewaju Oludolapo
Published: February 2025

The inclusion of renewable energy in the global energy mix has emerged as one of the viable solutions for addressing energy demand and ensuring decarbonization of the energy sector. However, their proliferation faces various challenges related to decision making, optimization and design complexity that cuts across various disciplines. Hence, transitioning into renewable energy is a transdisciplinary subject integrating expertise from diverse fields, including engineering, environmental science, economics, political and social sciences. This study presents a review of transdisciplinary approach to accelerate the adoption of hybrid renewable energy systems through sustainable design. The review starts with a discussion on the sustainable design principles with emphasis on lifecycle assessments, modularity, and resilience to enhance hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) efficiency and adaptability. Next, the study surveyed various optimization techniques that have been used in the sizing of HRES, including linear programming and metaheuristics approaches. Furthermore, the study reviewed multi-criteria methods that can be used in the evaluation and prioritization of optimal HRES obtained from the optimization techniques based on multiple attributes. Also, the study examined how spatial optimization can be used to improve the adoption of HRES. Finally, the study proposed a transdisciplinary framework which synthesizes various disciplines that can help in accelerating the adoption of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems. It is expected that this approach would provide a robust approach to the widespread adoption of HRES technologies.
Distinct virulence of the microsporidian parasite in honey bees competing habitat
Authors: Wei Xiuxiu , Huang Qiang
Published: February 2025

In natural ecosystems, parasites often infect multiple host species, particularly when hosts share habitats, facilitating host-to-host transmission and altering traditional host-parasite coevolution dynamics. This study examines the microsporidian parasite Nosema ceranae in Eastern honey bees (Apis cerana) and Western honey bees (Apis mellifera), assessing its virulence and proliferation dynamics. Using inoculation experiments, we measured bee mortality and parasite spore loads to infer virulence and proliferation. Additionally, time-series transcriptome analysis of both bees and parasites provide insights into host-pathogen interactions. The results reveal that N. ceranae produces more spores with lower mortality in A. mellifera but causes higher mortality with lower spore production in A. cerana. The parasite also suppresses host gene expression, with stronger suppression observed in A. cerana. These findings suggest that N. ceranae is adapted for low virulence and high proliferation in A. mellifera but exhibits high virulence and limited proliferation in A. cerana. This study highlights the evolution of distinct trade-offs between virulence and proliferation in a multi-host system, offering valuable insights into parasite-host dynamics and their ecological implications.
Immunological memory to COVID-19 vaccines in immunocompromised and immunocompetent children
Authors: Russo Constanza , Otero Adrián , Uranga Macarena , Seery Vanesa , Raiden Silvina , Algieri Silvia , De Carli Norberto , Borda Mauricio , Albistur María F. , Heinitz Lourdes , Marcó del Pont María , Pardini Martina , Budano Guillermina , Alvarez Laura , Simaz Nancy , Merhar Claudia , Quintana María C. , Garbini Cecilia , Portela Luisa Aedo , Pereira Misael Salcedo , Ferrero Fernando , Geffner Jorge , Arruvito Lourdes
Published: February 2025

Background

Most children in Argentina received only the initial COVID-19 vaccine series, with presumed hybrid immunity after multiple Omicron waves. However, the durability of immune memory, particularly in immunocompromised (IC) children, remains poorly studied.

Methods

A cohort of IC (n=45) and healthy children (HC, n=79) was assessed between 13 to 17 months after receiving two or three doses of BBIBP-CorV and/or BNT162b2. Plasma anti-spike IgG, neutralizing activity and antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells against Wuhan and Omicron BA.5 variants were assessed.

Results

Most children remained seropositive after two vaccine doses, but compared with HC, IC exhibited lower neutralizing titers against both Wuhan and Omicron BA.5, particularly those vaccinated with BBIBP-CorV. Even after three vaccine doses, IC showed weaker neutralizing antibody response, CD8+ T cell responses and lower IFN-γ production compared with HC. Integrated analysis of neutralizing antibodies, memory CD4+, and CD8+ T cells revealed a weak immune memory among IC with an important compromise in memory CD8+ T cell responses.

Conclusions

Immunity can last up to 17 months, but reduced effectiveness against new variants highlights the need for updated COVID-19 vaccines, especially for IC children. Additional efforts are essential to enhance vaccination coverage and protect this vulnerable population.
Comparison of prognosis and analysis of related risk factors among three different left atrial appendage occlusion procedures in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Jiang Xiao-hai , Tan Yan-juan , Wang Run-zhong , Ruan Zhong-bao , Zhu Li
Published: February 2025

Background

Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) serves as an alternative to oral anticoagulation (OAC) for atrial fibrillation (AF) patients at high risk of bleeding. The aim of this study was to compare the peri-procedural safety, complete or incomplete occlusion, the incidence of the peri-device leak (PDL), and device-related thrombosis (DRT) among LAAO, cryoballoon ablation (CBA) combined with LAAO, and radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) combined with LAAO and to explore the risk factors of PDL and incomplete occlusion.

Methods

382 patients with non-valvular AF who underwent either LAAO alone (n = 117), CBA combined with LAAO (n = 125), or RFCA combined with LAAO (n = 140) were included in the retrospective study. The study assessed peri-procedural complications and imaging results (3 months post-procedure). Multivariable logistic regression was employed to identify risk factors for incomplete occlusion and PDL.

Results

Peri-procedural complication rates were low among all groups, with 2.9% in the RFCA combined with the LAAO group. In contrast, the LAAO alone and CBA combined with LAAO groups reported no major complications (p = 0.347). At the 3-month follow-up, the incidence of DRT was 1.7% in the LAAO group, 2.4% in the CBA combined with the LAAO group, and 2.1% in the RFCA combined with the LAAO group (p = 0.930). Complete occlusion rates were comparable among the groups: 64.8% for CBA combined with LAAO, 62.4% for LAAO alone, and 60.7% for RFCA combined with LAAO (p = 0.794). PDL occurred in 33.3% of LAAO-alone patients, 34.4% of CBA combined with LAAO patients, and 38.6% of RFCA combined with LAAO patients (p = 0.644). Multivariable analysis identified persistent AF and serum creatinine (SCr) as independent predictors of PDL and incomplete occlusion.

Conclusion

Peri-procedural complications, complete occlusion, PDL, and DRT rates were similar across the three treatment strategies. Persistent AF and SCr were significant risk factors for incomplete occlusion and PDL. These findings highlight the importance of individualized treatment strategies based on patient-specific risk factors for optimizing outcomes.
Impact of myocardial injury on cardiovascular complications in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: insights from Latin America
Authors: Cárdenas-Marín Paula Andrea , Cordoba-Melo Brayan Daniel , Carrillo-Gómez Diana Cristina , León-Giraldo Hoover , Mendoza Iván , Flórez Noel , Larrea Gómez Ricardo Enrique , Mercedes Jessica Mirella , Herrera Cesar J. , Lugo-Peña Julián , Cárdenas-Aldaz Liliana Patricia , Rossel Victor , Ramírez Ramírez Ricardo , Fernández Hugo Fernando , Retana Andrés Ulate , Sierra-Lara Martinez J. Daniel , Figueiredo Estevão Lanna , Yabar Galindo Wilbert German , Quintana Da Silva Miguel Angel , Romero Alexander , Silva Paula , Alvarado Armando , Valencia Andrea , Gomez-Mesa Juan Esteban
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Viral infection by SARS-CoV2 is a pandemic affecting over 600 million people worldwide. One of five hospitalized patients may present myocardial injury, strongly associated with disease severity and mortality.

Methodology

Retrospective cross-sectional study of hospitalized COVID-19 patients diagnosed between May 01, 2020, and June 30, 2021, from the database of the Registro Latinoamericano de Enfermedad Cardiovascular y COVID-19 (CARDIO COVID 19–20) with a troponin value recorded during hospitalization. A descriptive analysis of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics was performed. Bivariate analysis was conducted according to the presence or absence of myocardial injury. Survival analysis was made using Kaplan–Meier curves, by the presence of myocardial injury. A multivariate Poisson regression model was performed to determine factors associated with mortality. Statistical analyses were performed using the RStudio V.1.4.1717 package.

Results

A total of 2,134 patients were included, 64.2% were male, and 911 patients had myocardial injury. The median age of the total population was 61 years. Individuals with myocardial injury had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Survival probability was lower in this subgroup. Patients with myocardial injury had a 1.95 times higher risk of death. Age, male sex, chronic kidney disease, arrhythmias, decompensated heart failure, requirement of inotropic/vasopressor, and invasive mechanical ventilation were related to higher mortality risk in patients with myocardial injury.

Conclusion

Patients with COVID-19 and myocardial injury exhibit a broad spectrum of cardiac abnormalities. Myocardial injury is associated with a higher disease severity and risk of in-hospital mortality. This multicenter study uniquely represents data from 13 Latin American countries, offering regional insights into the impact of myocardial injury during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evaluating working memory in young individuals with normal hearing through tele-assessment and traditional assessment: a comparative study
Authors: Nisha Kavassery Venkateswaran , Devi N. , Vandana B. , Rashmi E. , Shende Shraddha A. , Mudar Raksha A.
Published: February 2025

Aim

This pilot study examined the feasibility of tele-assessment of working memory (WM) compared to conventional face-to-face assessment.

Methods

In total, 15 young adults aged between 18 and 30 years who were native speakers of Kannada with normal hearing completed three WM tests in Indian English: forward digit span, backward digit span, and n-back task through tele-assessment and in-person/face-to-face assessment. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) task load index, which assesses subjective workload, was used to determine the difficulties across the two modes of assessment.

Results

Paired comparison t-tests showed no significant differences in performance in the forward digit span (p = 0.29), backward digit span (p = 0.71), and n-back (p = 0.66) tasks across the two assessment conditions. Furthermore, the NASA task load index did not differ across the two assessment conditions for forward digit span (p = 0.29), backward digit span (p = 0.71), and n-back (p = 0.66). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed that the backward digit span task was the most difficult among the working memory tasks in both modes of assessment. The findings of our pilot study suggest that both modes can be used successfully to assess working memory, and tele-assessment yields similar results to face-to-face WM assessment in young normal-hearing adults. These results support the feasibility of conducting WM tests via tele-assessment, which has implications for use in clinical populations.
Association between the atherogenic index of plasma and abdominal aortic calcification: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2014
Authors: Su Xiaozhou , Zhao Chunli , Li Donghua , Zhang Xianwei
Published: February 2025

Background

Coronary artery calcification and cardiovascular disease are associated with elevated levels of atherogenic plasma index (AIP). However, the relationship with abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the association between AIP and AAC using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 2,811 individuals aged 40 years or older from the 2013–2014 NHANES dataset. Participants with missing AAC-24 scores, AIP data, or covariate information were excluded. AAC was quantified using the Kauppila score (AAC-24), with a score > 0 indicating the presence of AAC, and severe AAC (SAAC) being defined as an AAC-24 score ≥ 6. Multivariable regression models and restricted cubic spline analyses were employed to assess the associations between AIP and AAC. Sensitivity analysis was used to validate the robustness of the findings.

Results

The study population had a mean age of 57.7 years, with 48.22% being male. A significant positive association was found between AIP and both the AAC score and the risk of AAC and SAAC, particularly in females. For the overall population, each unit increase in AIP was associated with an overall increase in AAC-24 score of 0.90 (95% CI: 0.22, 1.58; p = 0.009), and for women, the AAC risk and SAAC risk would be 4.01-fold higher (95% CI: 1.65, 9.74; p = 0.002) and 9.37-fold higher (95% CI: 2.37, 37.03; p = 0.001). No significant associations were found in males. Further analysis revealed a significant interaction between AIP and gender regarding both AAC scores and the risk of SAAC.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a positive relationship between AIP and increased AAC scores, as well as a higher risk of AAC and SAAC in U.S. women. However, these findings require further investigation to confirm the observed gender-specific differences.
A multi-grade reactive power utilization evaluation method for distribution networks with high renewables
Authors: Xu Min , Yao Wenqian , Zeng Wanyan , Li Tianting , Wang Zhou , Dou Qing
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a multi-grade reactive power utilization evaluation strategy for distribution networks with high renewables to identify the devices with low-grade utilization efficiency. Firstly, a suitability assessment indicator is presented to quantify the mismatch degree between reactive power demand and compensation capacity in distribution substations, and then a Kantorovich distance-based scenario reduction method is used to obtain typical reactive power load curves from historical data. Furthermore, influence factors on reactive power planning are investigated for distribution networks with different penetration level of renewable energy sources. Finally, considering zonal differences in load types and network structures, a multi-grade utilization evaluation strategy is proposed to identify inefficient reactive power equipment under various operating conditions. Comparative case studies have validated the superior performance of the proposed strategy for better utilization of reactive power compensation equipment.
Alteration of chromatin states perturb the transcription regulation of gene during hydronephrosis
Authors: Wang Xiao-Hui , Zhang Shu-Feng , Wu Hai-Ying , Gao Jian , Wang Lin , Yin Yao , Wang Xuhui
Published: February 2025

Background

Gene expression is abnormal in disease compared to normal tissue same as the regulatory elements. Regulatory element binding with transcription factors managed transcription of gene, which usually require chromatin accessible.

Methods

To reveal potential epigenetic mechanism during hydronephrosis, we first used RNA-seq to finger out the disfunction genes during hydronephrosis, then combined with ATAC-seq, and BS-seq to reveal the related disfunction regulatory elements.

Results

Finally, we find that 860 differentially genes and 2429 dynamic chromatin open regions between normal and hydronephrosis tissue. Though, most of disfunction genes and regulatory elements significantly enriched in chronic kidney disease GO term, only small part of regulatory element target genes overlapped with truly disfunction genes. And we also find out an important gene OTUD6B, which overexpression in disease tissue is manipulated by distal regulatory element through chromatin loop, and confirm the importance of epigenetic mechanism in disease.

Conclusion

In summary, we found many hub genes and potential therapeutic target during hydronephrosis, and also confirmed that epigenetic play important role in gene expression and relevant in disease progress.
WCSGNet: a graph neural network approach using weighted cell-specific networks for cell-type annotation in scRNA-seq
Authors: Wang Yi-Ran , Du Pu-Feng
Published: February 2025

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has emerged as a powerful tool for understanding cellular heterogeneity, providing unprecedented resolution in molecular regulation analysis. Existing supervised learning approaches for cell type annotation primarily utilize gene expression profiles from scRNA-seq data. Although some methods incorporated gene interaction network information, they fail to use cell-specific gene association networks. This limitation overlooks the unique gene interaction patterns within individual cells, potentially compromising the accuracy of cell type classification. We introduce WCSGNet, a graph neural network-based algorithm for automatic cell-type annotation that leverages Weighted Cell-Specific Networks (WCSNs). These networks are constructed based on highly variable genes and inherently capture both gene expression patterns and gene association network structure features. Extensive experimental validation demonstrates that WCSGNet consistently achieves superior cell type classification performance, ranking among the top-performing methods while maintaining robust stability across diverse datasets. Notably, WCSGNet exhibits a distinct advantage in handling imbalanced datasets, outperforming existing methods in these challenging scenarios. All datasets and codes for reproducing this work were deposited in a GitHub repository (https://github.com/Yi-ellen/WCSGNet).
Hyperspectral segmentation of plants in fabricated ecosystems
Authors: Zwart Petrus H. , Andeer Peter , Northen Trent R.
Published: February 2025

Hyperspectral imaging provides a powerful tool for analyzing above-ground plant characteristics in fabricated ecosystems, offering rich spectral information across diverse wavelengths. This study presents an efficient workflow for hyperspectral data segmentation and subsequent data analytics, minimizing the need for user annotation through the use of ensembles of sparse mixed scale convolution neural networks. The segmentation process leverages the diversity of ensembles to achieve high accuracy with minimal labeled data, reducing labor-intensive annotation efforts. To further enhance robustness, we incorporate image alignment techniques to address spatial variability in the dataset. Downstream analysis focuses on using the segmented data for processing spectral data, enabling monitoring of plant health. This approach provides a scalable solution for spectral segmentation, and facilitates actionable insights into plant conditions in complex, controlled environments. Our results demonstrate the utility of combining advanced machine learning techniques with hyperspectral analytics for high-throughput plant monitoring.
Deep sequencing of BCR heavy chain repertoires in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Ryback Audrey A. , Cowan Graeme J. M.
Published: February 2025

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a common and debilitating chronic illness of unknown aetiology. Chronic infection and autoimmune responses have been proposed as two mechanisms that potentially underlie the pathogenesis of ME/CFS. To explore these disease hypotheses, we characterised the antigen-specific receptors of B cells using adaptive immune receptor repertoire sequencing. We compared the B-cell receptor (BCR) repertoires of 25 patients with mild/moderate ME/CFS, 36 patients with severe ME/CFS, 21 healthy controls, and 28 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) to identify signatures of infection or autoimmune responses. ME/CFS patients did not display increased clonality or differential somatic hypermutation compared to healthy controls and patients with MS. One of two immunoglobulin heavy variable (IGHV) genes, IGHV3-30, reported to be increased in ME/CFS patients in a previous study, was replicated in patients with mild/moderate disease in our cohort. However, there was no evidence of ongoing adaptive responses in IGHV3-30 repertoires from mild/moderate ME/CFS patients with increased IGHV3-30 usage. There were no detectable repertoire signatures associated with infection or autoimmunity in repertoires from ME/CFS patients, but we observed skewing of the ratio of IgM to IgG BCRs in patients with mild/moderate ME/CFS, a preliminary finding that presents an opportunity for follow-up work.
Hypomethylation of GCNT2 isoform A correlates with transcriptional expression and is associated with poor survival in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wu De-hong , Qiu Hong-chun , Xu Jing , Lin Jiang , Qian Jun
Published: February 2025

Background

The function of GCNT2 has been documented to act as an oncogenic driver or tumor suppressor in different types of tumor, but the role of GCNT2 and the epigenetic regulation mechanism in AML, however, has not yet been clarified. This study aimed to assay the expression and methylation profile of GCNT2 in AML, and further elucidate the clinical significance.

Methods

Multiple datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas projects (TCGA) were used to explore the expression and methylation profile of GCNT2 in normal hematopoiesis and AML. A pan-cancer analysis was performed to define the survival implications of GCNT2 across multiple cancers including AML. The relationships between GCNT2 expression/methylation and clinicopathologic features were investigated using a TCGA-AML dataset. Correlation analysis was performed to explore the relationship between transcriptional expression and DNA methylation. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) on the KEGG pathway and GO terms were visualized using DAVID. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GESA) was carried out to assess the underlying mechanism. The relationship between methylation and immune cell infiltration was also examined.

Results

GCNT2 expression was highest in hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) but gradually decreased during the hematopoiesis differentiation, the monocytes, however, remained a high level of GCNT2 as an exception. In AML, GCNT2 was down-regulated as compared to normal hematopoiesis but was much higher in contrast to normal peripheral blood samples. Data from a pan-cancer analysis revealed that high-expressed GCNT2 contributed to a worse OS for AML. DNA methylation of GCNT2 showed a distinctive co-methylation pattern in AML and significantly negatively correlated with transcriptional expression. Methylation in the transcriptional start site of isoform A plays a critical role in the epigenetic regulation of GCNT2 expression. The silence of GCNT2 in AML was attributed to DNA methylation. Hypomethylation of isoform A significantly predicted poor survival in AML, linking to several cytogenetic and molecular abnormalities, such as t (8:21), inv (16), t (15;17), and genes mutations of DNMT3A, CEBPA, RUNX1, and WT1. Enrichment analysis disclosed that hypomethylation of isoform A was involved in the immune system, and it was further revealed that hypomethylation of isoform A was tightly associated with immune cell infiltration and could be served as a promising indicator for immunotherapy.

Conclusions

Our comprehensive research demonstrated that GCNT2 acted as an oncogene in AML, and was epigenetically regulated by DNA methylation in isoform A. Hypomethylation of isoform A could be served as a promising indicator to identify the high-risk AML patients who might be responsive to immunotherapy.
Research progress of extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis of type IIIA chronic prostatitis
Authors: Cheng Le , Luo Peiyue , Li Wei , Chen Qi , Gan Lifeng , Zhang Fangtao , Zheng Liying , Qian Biao
Published: February 2025

Chronic prostatitis is a prevalent urological condition that significantly impacts patients’ quality of life. Advances in the study of Extracellular Vesicles (EV) have revealed their close involvement in the pathogenesis of prostatitis. This paper reviews the progress in understanding the role of EV in the pathogenesis of chronic prostatitis type IIIA, particularly their involvement in inflammatory responses, cell signaling, and interactions with immune cells. Additionally, it explores the potential applications of EV as drug delivery vehicles, including the targeted delivery of anti-inflammatory agents and immunomodulators, and highlights the challenges associated with developing exosome-based therapeutic strategies. In-depth research on EV holds promise for offering new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory diseases.
The protective role of muscone in the development of COPD
Authors: Feng Tiantian , Guo Xiaolong , Chen Wei , Zhang Yanying , Dai Runjing , Zhang Yinfang , Liu Yongqi , Liu Yiya , Song Peng , Fan Jingchun
Published: February 2025

Background

Muscone, a key component of musk, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. However, its therapeutic potential in inflammatory lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate whether Muscone could exert a protective effect in a mouse model of COPD in vivo.

Methods

A COPD animal model was established by exposing mice to cigarette smoke (CS) and administering lipopolysaccharide (LPS) intranasally. After 4 weeks, mice were treated daily with dexamethasone (DEX) or different doses of Muscone for 3 weeks. Mouse body weight, lung function, and histopathology were determined. Serum levels of cytokines (IL-38, IL-1β, IL-17, TGF-β, IFN-γ) were measured using ELISA and qRT-PCR. Lung expression of CXCR3, IFN-γ, IL-17A, and RORγt was assessed by immunofluorescence.

Results

The body weight of COPD mice was significantly lower than that of Muscone-treated COPD mice, consistent with decreased lung function, accompanied by reduced circulating and lung IL-38 levels. After Muscone administration, lung function was significantly improved, accompanied by upregulation of circulating and lung anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-38, in a dose-dependent manner, while the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was significantly reduced. Additionally, Muscone significantly inhibited the protein expression of CXCR3, IFN-γ, IL-17A, and RORγt in lung tissues of COPD mice.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that Muscone improves lung function in mice with COPD, potentially through a mechanism that may involve the modulation of cytokine expression, including the potential upregulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-38. The precise underlying mechanisms of Muscone’s therapeutic effects in COPD remain to be fully elucidated. Further research is needed to investigate the correlation between COPD lung pathophysiology and the specific effects of Muscone treatment, including a more detailed analysis of the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators in COPD animal models, particularly utilizing IL-38 GKO mice to further investigate the role of IL-38 in mediating the therapeutic effects of Muscone.
m6A epitranscriptomic modification in hepatocellular carcinoma: implications for the tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Fen , Liu Qingbin , Li Xianying , Wang Yufei , Cao Ruoyu , Zhang Shiyu , Jiang Shulong , Wu Jianlin
Published: February 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent primary liver malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. The asymptomatic progression of early-stage HCC often results in diagnosis at advanced stages, significantly limiting therapeutic options and worsening prognosis. Immunotherapy, with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) at the forefront, has revolutionized HCC treatment. Nevertheless, tumor heterogeneity, immune evasion, and the presence of immunosuppressive components within the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) continue to compromise its efficacy. Furthermore, resistance or non-responsiveness to ICIs in some patients underscores the urgent need to unravel the complexities of the TIME and to design innovative strategies that enhance immunotherapeutic outcomes. Emerging evidence has revealed the pivotal role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a prominent RNA methylation modification, in shaping the TIME in HCC. By regulating RNA stability and translation, m6A influences immune-related factors, including cytokines and immune checkpoint molecules. This modification governs PD-L1 expression, facilitating immune escape and contributing to resistance against ICIs. Advances in this field have also identified m6A-related regulators as promising biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy response and as potential therapeutic targets for optimizing treatment efficacy. This review examines the regulatory mechanisms of m6A modification within the TIME of HCC, with a focus on its impact on immune cells and cytokine dynamics. It also explores the therapeutic potential of targeting m6A pathways to improve immunotherapy efficacy and outlines emerging directions for future research. These insights aim to provide a foundation for developing novel strategies to overcome immune resistance and advance HCC treatment.
The role of macrophages in liver metastasis: mechanisms and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Yuan Qin , Jia Linlin , Yang Jiahua , Li Wei
Published: February 2025

Metastasis is a hallmark of advanced cancer, and the liver is a common site for secondary metastasis of many tumor cells, including colorectal, pancreatic, gastric, and prostate cancers. Macrophages in the tumor microenvironment (TME) promote tumor cell metastasis through various mechanisms, including angiogenesis and immunosuppression, and play a unique role in the development of liver metastasis. Macrophages are affected by a variety of factors. Under conditions of hypoxia and increased acidity in the TME, more factors are now found to promote the polarization of macrophages to the M2 type, including exosomes and amino acids. M2-type macrophages promote tumor cell angiogenesis through a variety of mechanisms, including the secretion of factors such as VEGF, IL-1β, and TGF-β1. M2-type macrophages are subjected to multiple regulatory mechanisms. They also interact with various cells within the tumor microenvironment to co-regulate certain conditions, including the creation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. This interaction promotes tumor cell metastasis, drug resistance, and immune escape. Based on the advent of single-cell sequencing technology, further insights into macrophage subpopulations in the tumor microenvironment may help in exploring new therapeutic targets in the future. In this paper, we will focus on how macrophages affect the TME, how tumor cells and macrophages as well as other immune cells interact with each other, and further investigate the mechanisms involved in liver metastasis of tumor cells and their potential as therapeutic targets.
Impact of different 3D regions of interest on quantifying dynamic lumbar vertebral microstructure in ovariectomized rats—a micro-CT study
Authors: Xu Huihui , Liu Hong , Liu Meijie , Li Yan , Pan Jinghua , Wang Shaojun , Wang Guowei , Liu Xin , Liu Ying , Hou Xiaoqin , Zhao Hongyan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The selection of regions of interest (ROIs) is crucial for accurate microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) analysis. Distinct ROI selection methods exist for lumbar vertebras in osteoporotic animal model research. However, whether different ROIs directly affect the results of quantitative micro-CT-based microarchitectural data is still unknown. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of two commonly used ROIs of lumbar vertebras in ovariectomized (OVX) rats at different time points.

Methods

Rats were randomly divided into the baseline group, the sham/OVX-operated groups, with 12- or 24-weeks sham (Sham 12w or Sham 24w)/12- or 24-weeks (OVX 12w or OVX 24w)-operated group (n = 6 in every group). The fifth lumbar vertebras were collected and scanned using micro-CT. Quantitative analyses of bone microarchitecture parameters were conducted separately for the central ROI (ROI 1) and overall ROI (ROI 2).

Results

The results indicated that the Tb.N of baseline group rats for ROI 1 was significantly lower than that for ROI 2. The Tb.Th of rats of the Sham 12w and Sham 24w groups was significantly increased compared to that of the baseline group rats using the ROI 2 analysis. The bone mineral density (BMD) and bone volume fraction (BV/TV) were significantly lower by the ROI 1 than by the ROI 2 in all groups. The BMD and BV/TV also showed a significant reduction at 24 weeks postoperatively compared with those at 12 weeks postoperatively. Bland–Altman analysis showed good consistency between the two different ROI selection methods.

Conclusion

This study found that capturing peripheral trabeculas (overall ROI) does not explain the increased Tb.Th in healthy mice and decreased Tb.N in OVX mice; both findings indicate that this is evident in both ROI. Moreover, this study suggested the potential value of the central ROI (effective and quicker) for evaluating osteoporosis of the lumbar vertebras in OVX rats and provides a basis for analyzing the morphological changes of lumbar trabecular.