bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastroprotection without Gastric Acid Suppression, Mini Review and Personal Experience
Authors: Y Marakhouski , Juris Rubens
Published: December 2023

First of all, the protection of gastro mucosa against injury, which can be caused by a variety of noxious agents, and the restitution of mucosal integrity after mucosal damage depends on the interplay of numerous different effectors and mediators. Second. The mucus is the first line of defense against luminal attacks on mucosal integrity. The intact microcirculation which is necessary for tissue protection and repair. Thirdly, the process of mucosal restitution and regeneration is controlled by various endogenous components, including growth factors, particularly EGF and TGFα. Fourthly, some agents which can cause mucosal damage like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including acetylosalicylic acid, and probably can be protected by natural substances via the mechanism of adaptive gastroprotection. Essential is the presence of a series of exogenous natural substances that have a gastroprotective effect, increasing the gastric mucosa endogenous adaptive cytoprotection potential. Among such exogenous natural substances, we paid attention to the Coniferous Pine Needles Extract (Baltic pine or Pinus sylvestris). The phytochemical substances present in Coniferous Pine Needles Extract are nontoxic at therapeutic levels, with clearly gastroprotective effect.
Makna Sindiran dalam Kolom Komentar di Kanal YouTube Podcast Deddy Corbuzier Episode "Mahfud MD, TKP pun Dia Rekayasa!? Bongkar Habis Irjen Sambo vs Brigadir J" Tanggal 12 Agustus 2022
Authors: Sary Berliana Amanda , Sangaji Harun Ahmad
Published: December 2023

Gaya bahasa sindiran yang terdapat pada kolom komentar di kanal YouTube Podcast Deddy Corbuzier episode Mahfud MD, TKP pun Dia Rekayasa!? Bongkar Habis Irjen Sambo Vs Brigadir J Tanggal 12 Agustus 2022 sangat menarik jika dikaji dalam perspektif jenis dan makna wacana gaya bahasa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan makna sindiran dalam kolom komentar di kanal YouTube tersebut. Pendekatan yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah pendekatan penelitian kualitatif dengan metode deskriptif. Berdasarkan hasil analisis, diperoleh beberapa hasil sebagai berikut. Pertama, gaya bahasa sindiran pada kolom komentar di kanal YouTube Deddy Corbuzier episode Mahfud MD, TKP Pun Dia Rekayasa!? Bongkar Habis Irjen Sambo vs Brigadir J yang tayang pada tanggal 12 Agustus 2022 ditemukan sebanyak 4 jenis gaya bahasa sindiran yaitu ironi, sarkasme, satire, dan innuendo. Dengan dominan penggunaan gaya bahasa sindiran ironi dan sarkasme, Kedua, makna dari komentar yang disampaikan oleh masyarakat pada kolom komentar di kanal YouTube tersebut mengandung kekecewaan terhadap pemerintahan serta hukum yang ada di Indonesia. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa masyarakat di Indonesia menggunakan gaya bahasa sindiran sebagai bentuk ungkapan atas kritik dan pendapatnya yang disampaikan secara tidak langsung melalui perumpamaan, persamaan sifat dan sebagainya.
Analisis Tingkat Pemahaman Materi dan Kemampuan Belajar Mahasiswa Kelas Pekerja
Authors: Artania Eva Rayi , Amrullah Haris
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study was to find out and analyze the level of understanding of the material in class and the learning abilities of students working in the economics education study program class of 2020 B at Ikip Budi Utomo Malang. Comprehension is this ability which is generally emphasized in the teaching and learning process. Students are required to understand or understand what is being taught, know what is being communicated and be able to take advantage of the content without having to relate it to other things. The sample for this research consisted of 20 students whose status was working and the data collection technique used a questionnaire. The analysis technique in this research uses the Quantitative Descriptive method. The results showed that 20% of the working students' understanding of the material in Economics Education B had a good level of understanding of the material, 60% had a moderate level of understanding, and 20% of working students had a low level of understanding of the material. For the learning abilities of working students, 50% is in a very good category, 45% of working students are in a good category, and 5% of working students are still classified as not very good.
Eksplorasi Etnomatematika Pada Artefak Peninggalan Sejarah Museum Mpu Tantular
Authors: Ichsyantianawati Meyke Rosalia , Kartika Era Dewi
Published: December 2023

This research was conducted to explore the Mpu Tantular Museum in depth by applying the concept of ethnomathematics. In this case, the researcher attempts to describe the real shape of the historical artifacts of the Mpu Tantular Museum using mathematical concepts. The type of research applied is qualitative research with an exploratory approach that focuses on the relationship between two-dimensional and three-dimensional geometric concepts with historical artifacts in the Mpu Tantular Museum. The results of this study indicate that: (1) Ethnomatematics is a scientific discipline that combines mathematics with culture. Which is where ethnomathematics can be a model of a mathematical approach in a cultural perspective which has very good potential for teachers to develop mathematics learning into contextual learning which can also introduce national culture to students. (2) There are 20 (twenty) objects that have the concept of second-dimensional and third-dimensional geometry. 13 (thirteen) artifact objects having a two-dimensional geometric concept, and 8 (eight) artifact objects having a three-dimensional geometric concept. (3) Small artefacts such as fossils, metal inscriptions, nekara and other similar small sizes are placed in a box-shaped glass protective case with a total surface area of 2.45 m2 consisting of a windshield covering an area of 1.4 m2 and top glass protector covering an area of 1.75 m2.
A Analisis Kesalahan Siswa Kelas IV Sekolah Dasar Dalam Menulis Kata Bahasa Inggris Pada Tema My Dream
Authors: Irawandi Asep Rendi
Published: December 2023

Penelitian ini berfokus pada analisis kesalahan siswa kelas IV sekolah dasar dalam menulis kata Bahasa Inggris pada tema my dream. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui penyebab kesalahan siswa dalam menulis kata bahasa Inggris. Peneliti menggunakan kualitatif deskriptif untuk melakukan penelitian ini. Populasi penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas IV SDN Cipancar 2/5 kecamatan Leles, Kabupaten Garut. 52 siswa dipilih sebagai sampel. Data yang diperoleh dari penelitian ini adalah wawancara dan observasi. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa siswa sering mengulangi kesalahan pada penulisan kata yang tidak sesuai dengan pengucapan Bahasa Inggris.
Pengaruh Harga, Kualitas Produk dan Kualitas Pelayanan terhadap Kepuasan Konsumen pada Usaha Sablon Saka Domdem Malang
Authors: Bahi Hengki Ronaldo , Prasetyo Novi Eko , Purwati Titik
Published: December 2023

This study discusses the effect of price, product quality, and service quality on consumer satisfaction in the Saka Domdem Malang screen printing business. The research objective to be achieved is to know and analyze price, product quality and service quality partially or simultaneously on consumer satisfaction in screen printing business Saka Domdem Malang. This study used sampling data of 100 consumers of Saka Domdem Malang by distributing questionnaires using quantitative data types. The results of the T test show that product quality and price have a positive or significant effect on consumer satisfaction. Service Quality Variable has a positive and significant effect on Customer Satisfaction. And the results of the F test show that the variables Price, Product Quality and Service Quality simultaneously influence Consumer Satisfaction in the Saka Domdem Malang Screen Printing Business.
Strategi Pemasaran Lembaga Kelompok Tani Hutan dalam Meningkatkan Kepuasan Wisatawan Pantai
Authors: Sefaverdiana Putri Vina , Qoyimah Masfufah Dinnul , Rakhmadian Miftah
Published: December 2023

Tourism is a planned trip that is carried out individually or together from one place to another with the aim of obtaining satisfaction and pleasure in a certain form. In line with the mandate of the Minister of Home Affairs Regulation No. 33 of 2009 concerning Guidelines for the Development of Ecotourism in the Regions (Marine, Forest and Karst Tourism). Malang Regency is one of the regencies participating in the Visit East Java program to introduce tourist objects. The tourist destination area is an important component of tourism resources. Identification in field observations, namely the problem of tourist attraction and promotion is still not optimal so that tourists who visit here feel less interested and dissatisfied. The purpose of this research is to find out what marketing strategies are carried out by the management of Banyu Meneng Beach in increasing tourist satisfaction. This type of research with descriptive qualitative methods obtained through observation, interviews and documentation. After carrying out the research phase. Researchers found a lack of marketing strategy at Banyu Meneng Beach which was carried out by the Forest Farmers Group institution "Ngudi Makmur". In implementing the marketing strategy at Banyu Meneng Beach, the inhibiting factor is the lack of cooperation with the government to market existing tourist destinations, while the supporting factors for marketing strategies in increasing visits are the ease of digital access which is still not optimal.
Strategi Pengelolaan Kelas Dalam Menciptakan Suasana Belajar Untuk Meningkatkan Efektivitas Pembelajaran Sejarah Kelas X Melalui Penggunaan Aplikasi Quiziz di SMA Negeri 1 Pahunga Lodu
Authors: Setiawati Debi , Kahi Sisilia
Published: December 2023

This study aims to find out how to increase the effectiveness of history learning through the use of the Quiziz application on a Quiziz learning media. This research is a class activity research that will be carried out on class X students at SMA Negeri 1 Pahunga Lodu with a sample of 34 students. This research was carried out when the learning process in the classroom was started or it could also be used as homework. Each meeting consists of 3 stages, namely, planning stage, implementation stage, and observation. This research uses quantitative methods, quantitative research is carried out by collecting information in a number frame, then it is prepared and analyzed to obtain data. In this study, using ex-post facto to design and explain the causal relationship. In this case, it will explore causal relationships and test hypotheses between variables that have been formulated previously. The variable is the use of the Quiziz application learning media in increasing the effectiveness of learning in the History subject of Class X students at SMA Negeri 1 Pahunga Lodu. Based on the results of the analysis on the variables using the quiziz application, the students of class X IPS 4 SMA Negeri 1 Pahunga Lodu can be seen that the score that has been obtained by students is 100, and the minimum score obtained by students is 50. The average score obtained is 50. Students have obtained the variable (X) 87,26472 with a range of 50. While the values for skewnes and kurtosis are -1.7047 and 2.812362, respectively, and a standard deviation of 12.46889 from the ideal score that may be achieved by students. While the results of the output on the Normality test, it can be seen that the significant value (Y) is 0.013 0.05, so H1 received is normally distributed. Thus it can be concluded that in learning activities using the internet-based Quiziz application learning model or method has a positive effect on student learning achievement.
Pengembangan Modul Ajar Sistem Pernafasan menggunakan Model Pembelajaran Picture and Picture
Authors: Kaka Dorkas Dairu , Iza Nikmatul
Published: December 2023

The use of open materials and appropriate learning models are important factors in achieving success, one of which is using learning modules equipped with picture and picture learning models. The aim of this research is to develop a respiratory system teaching module using picture and drawing learning models. The type of data in this research is qualitative and quantitative data in the form of suggestions and validator assessment scores. The development of teaching modules was carried out using the 4D development model of Thiagarajan, et al (1974) which has four stages, including defining, designing, developing and disseminating, but in this research it is only limited to the development stages. The development of respiratory system teaching modules using the picture and picture learning model has an average material expert validation result of 93% with a very valid category and learning media expert validation with an average score of 93.75 with a very valid category, so it is very suitable for use in the process learning.
Pengaruh Inflasi, Suku Bunga dan Pertumbuhan PDB Terhadap IHSG
Authors: Fathulloh Moh , Agustina Rachma
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of inflation on the JCI, the effect of interest rates on the JCI, and the effect of GDP growth on the JCI. This research uses SPSS analysis test. In this study, the approach used is a quantitative approach. The sample selection method uses a non-probability sampling method. In this study, the data used are secondary data registered and published in the Central Statistics Agency, Bank Indonesia and the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The sample used in this study was saturated sampling where all the population was sampled as many as 32 data samples during the 2014-2021 period. The results showed that inflation and interest rates had no effect on the Composite Stock Price Index (JCI), while the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) had an effect on the Composite Stock Price Index (JCI).
Berbagai Faktor yang Berpengaruh Terhadap Struktur Modal dengan Ukuran Perusahaan Sebagai Moderasi (Perusahaan Plastik dan Kemasan)
Authors: Anisak Mareta Umi , Ardiana Meta
Published: December 2023

This study proves the effect of business risk, sales growth, asset structure on capital structure which is moderated by company size. This type of research method is quantitative research with purposive sampling. The object of this research is the plastic and packaging sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2019-2021. Data analysis uses SPSS version 26 and Moderated Regression Analysis (MRA). The results of this study indicate that the business risk and sales growth variables have no effect on the capital structure. While the asset structure variable affects the capital structure. In addition, company size cannot moderate business risk, sales growth and asset structure to capital structure
Analisis Penentuan Harga Jual dengan Metode Cost Plus Pricing
Authors: Octavia Devi Mega , Ervina Deasy
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the calculation of the cost of production and the process of determine the selling price of fry at Jaya Samudra. This study calculates the cost of production using the full costing method and variable costing as well as determining the selling price using cost plus pricing. The type of research used is descriptive qualitative research. The data used in this study are primary data from interviews and information on Jaya Samudra’s production costs during 2021. The results of the analysis of research data show that the calculation of the company’s cost of goods manufactured is lower than the calculation using the full costing method, but when calculated by variable costing have in common. The determination of Jaya Samudra’s selling price is only carried out according to the market price. The selling price using the cost plus pricing method results in higher and lower resuluts, this happens when the price of the fry soars.
SILÊNCIO COMO O SER DA LINGUGAGEM NA LITERATURA MODERNA
Authors: Machado Carlos Henrique
Published: December 2023

Se a linguagem é responsável por garantir a existência do sujeito que percebe, abstrai e diz o mundo à sua volta, garantido a identidade e a diferença das coisas, a literatura moderna, em alguns de seus aspectos, fez desaparecer aquilo que servia de suporte ao ato linguístico, ao falante e ao seu discurso. O sujeito ou o eu que fala se fragmentou e se dispersou até desaparecer num espaço vazio de profundo silêncio, longe dos significados da língua e da dinastia da representação. Queremos perceber, então, de que modo se dá esta dissolução a partir de um texto de Kafka de 1917 (O silêncio das sereias), que vem revelar os diferentes sentidos por intermédio de uma linguagem descentrada, única, capaz de dar a perceber aquilo que escapa à legislação das palavras.  Queremos penetrar os lugares do silêncio onde os encontros de tendências intempestivas produzem agitações, que antes de poderem ser designadas se transmutam em uma novidade quando o momento pathico é experimentado no mundo como acontecimento.
Value of art and culture institutions: a case study of Jyväskylä, Finland
Authors: Sokka Sakarias , Ruokolainen Olli , Tohmo Timo
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a case study about perceptions of residents about the value of publicly funded art and culture institutions (museums, city theatre, and symphony orchestra) in the Finnish city of Jyväskylä. In this study, the kinds of value that residents attribute to these local art and culture institutions and what kind of economic value the visitors’ expenditure to these institutions illustrates are explored. The analysis in this study is based on a survey conducted in 2019 that included the visitors and non-visitors to these institutions as participants. The results illustrate several values of art and culture institutions, which also point to multiple policy domains related to art, economy, social, and wellbeing effects. According to previous studies on cultural policy, it is important to be aware of the various value dimensions of future cultural policy. Though there are conflicting aims regarding cultural values, varied value dimensions complement each other in future-oriented policies.
Neurofilaments in health and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
Authors: Kotaich Farah , Caillol Damien , Bomont Pascale
Published: December 2023

Neurofilaments (NFs) are the most abundant component of mature neurons, that interconnect with actin and microtubules to form the cytoskeleton. Specifically expressed in the nervous system, NFs present the particularity within the Intermediate Filament family of being formed by four subunits, the neurofilament light (NF-L), medium (NF-M), heavy (NF-H) proteins and α-internexin or peripherin. Here, we review the current knowledge on NF proteins and neurofilaments, from their domain structures and their model of assembly to the dynamics of their transport and degradation along the axon. The formation of the filament and its behaviour are regulated by various determinants, including post-transcriptional (miRNA and RBP proteins) and post-translational (phosphorylation and ubiquitination) modifiers. Altogether, the complex set of modifications enable the neuron to establish a stable but elastic NF array constituting the structural scaffold of the axon, while permitting the local expression of NF proteins and providing the dynamics necessary to fulfil local demands and respond to stimuli and injury. Thus, in addition to their roles in mechano-resistance, radial axonal outgrowth and nerve conduction, NFs control microtubule dynamics, organelle distribution and neurotransmission at the synapse. We discuss how the studies of neurodegenerative diseases with NF aggregation shed light on the biology of NFs. In particular, the NEFL and NEFH genes are mutated in Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, the most common inherited neurological disorder of the peripheral nervous system. The clinical features of the CMT forms (axonal CMT2E, CMT2CC; demyelinating CMT1F; intermediate I-CMT) with symptoms affecting the central nervous system (CNS) will allow us to further investigate the physiological roles of NFs in the brain. Thus, NF-CMT mouse models exhibit various degrees of sensory-motor deficits associated with CNS symptoms. Cellular systems brought findings regarding the dominant effect of NF-L mutants on NF aggregation and transport, although these have been recently challenged. Neurofilament detection without NF-L in recessive CMT is puzzling, calling for a re-examination of the current model in which NF-L is indispensable for NF assembly. Overall, we discuss how the fundamental and translational fields are feeding each-other to increase but also challenge our knowledge of NF biology, and to develop therapeutic avenues for CMT and neurodegenerative diseases with NF aggregation.
Profiles of biliary microbiota in biliary obstruction patients with Clonorchis sinensis infection
Authors: Chen Rui , Li Xiang , Ding Jian , Wan Jie , Zhang Xueli , Jiang Xu , Duan Shanshan , Hu Xinyi , Gao Yannan , Sun Beibei , Lu Xi , Wang Ruifeng , Cheng Yang , Zhang Xiaoli , Han Su
Published: December 2023

Background

Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) is a epidemiologically significant food-borne parasite, causing several hepatobiliary diseases. Biliary microbiota community structure might be influenced by infection with pathogens. However, the biliary microbiome of biliary obstruction patients infected with C. sinensis is still an unexplored aspect.

Methods

A total of 50 biliary obstruction patients were enrolled, including 24 infected with C. sinensis and 26 non-infected subjects. The bile samples were collected by Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancretography. Biliary microbiota alteration was analyzed through high-throughput 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing.

Results

Our findings revealed that there was significant increase in both richness and diversity, as well as changes in the taxonomic composition of the biliary microbiota of C. sinensis infected patients. At the phylum level, C. sinensis infection induced Proteobacteria increased and Firmicutes reduced. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus increased significantly, while Enterococcus decreased prominently in infected groups (P < 0.05). The PICRUSt analysis further showed remarkably different metabolic pathways between the two groups.

Conclusion

C. sinensis infection could modify the biliary microbiota, increasing the abundance and changing the phylogenetic composition of bacterial in biliary obstruction patients. This study may help deepen the understanding of the host-biliary microbiota interplay with C. sinensis infection on the background of biliary obstruction and provide new insights into understanding the pathogenesis of clonorchiasis.
Meaningful connection in virtual classrooms: graduate students’ perspectives on effective instructor presence in blended courses
Authors: McNeill Laura , Bushaala Saad
Published: December 2023

This qualitative study explored 15 graduate students’ perspectives on effective online instructor presence. Analysis of interviews, a survey, and a focus group revealed students value early relationship-building through consistent participation, authentic personality-sharing, and learner-centered course design. Results indicate effective instructor presence fosters trust, satisfaction, engagement, and positive student mindsets while reducing stress and anxiety. Students preferred visible, accessible instructors who connect through prompt communication, constructive feedback, and active listening. Additional findings suggest leveraging synchronous interactions enhances social presence and relationship-building. However, disconnected instructor presence caused frustration and negative emotions. Overall, intentional instructor presence is critical for successful online instruction and profoundly shapes learners’ holistic experiences beyond solely academic goals. While limited to one program, these learner-centered insights provide a starting point for identifying high-impact presence-building strategies tailored to graduate contexts.
Embryonic diapause due to high glucose is related to changes in glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, as well as abnormalities in the TCA cycle and amino acid metabolism
Authors: Hong Jiewei , Tong Hongxuan , Wang Xuan , Lv Xiaoyan , He Lijuan , Yang Xuezhi , Wang Yingli , Xu Kaixia , Liang Qi , Feng Qianjin , Niu Tingli , Niu Xin , Lu Yu
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The adverse effects of high glucose on embryos can be traced to the preimplantation stage. This study aimed to observe the effect of high glucose on early-stage embryos.

Methods and results

Seven-week-old ICR female mice were superovulated and mated, and the zygotes were collected. The zygotes were randomly cultured in 5 different glucose concentrations (control, 20mM, 40mM, 60mM and 80mM glucose). The cleavage rate, blastocyst rate and total cell number of blastocyst were used to assess the embryo quality. 40 mM glucose was selected to model high glucose levels in this study. 40mM glucose arrested early embryonic development, and the blastocyst rate and total cell number of the blastocyst decreased significantly as glucose concentration was increased. The reduction in the total cell number of blastocysts in the high glucose group was attributed to decreased proliferation and increased cell apoptosis, which is associated with the diminished expression of GLUTs (GLUT1, GLUT2, GLUT3). Furthermore, the metabolic characterization of blastocyst culture was observed in the high-glucose environment.

Discussion

The balance of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation at the blastocyst stage was disrupted. And embryo development arrest due to high glucose is associated with changes in glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, as well as abnormalities in the TCA cycle and amino acid metabolism.
Platelet-rich plasma for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer: a systematic review
Authors: OuYang Hong , Tang Yi , Yang Fan , Ren Xin , Yang Jing , Cao Hongyi , Yin Yifan
Published: December 2023

Background

With the increasing incidence of diabetes, diabetic foot ulcer(DFU) has become one of the most common and serious complications in people with diabetes. DFU is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and can also result in significant economic, social and public health burdens. Due to peripheral neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, hyperglycemic environment, inflammatory disorders and other factors, the healing of DFU is impaired or delayed, resulting in the formation of diabetic chronic refractory ulcer. Because of these pathological abnormalities in DFU, it may be difficult to promote wound healing with conventional therapies or antibiotics, whereas platelet-rich plasma(PRP) can promote wound healing by releasing various bioactive molecules stored in platelets, making it more promising than traditional antibiotics. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review is to summarize and analyze the efficacy of PRP in the treatment of DFU.

Methods

A literature search was undertaken in PubMed, CNKI, EMB-ASE, the Cochrane Library, the WanFang Database and the WeiPu Database by computer. Included controlled studies evaluating the efficacy of PRP in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. The data extraction and assessment are on the basis of PRISMA.

Results

Twenty studies were evaluated, and nineteen measures for the evaluation of the efficacy of PRP in DFU treatment were introduced by eliminating relevant duplicate measures. The efficacy measures that were repeated in various studies mainly included the rate of complete ulcer healing, the percentage of ulcer area reduction, the time required for ulcer healing, wound complications (including infection rate, amputation rate, and degree of amputation), the rate of ulcer recurrence, and the cost and duration of hospitalization for DFU, as well as subsequent survival and quality of life scores. One of the most important indicators were healing rate, ulcer area reduction and healing time. The meta-analysis found that PRP was significantly improve the healing rate(OR = 4.37, 95% CI 3.02-6.33, P < 0.001) and shorten the healing time(MD = -3.21, 95% CI -3.83 to -2.59,P < 0.001)of patients with DFU when compared to the conventional treatment, but there was no significant difference in reducing the of ulcer area(MD = 5.67, 95% CI -0.77 to 12.11,P =0.08>0.05 ).

Conclusion

The application of PRP to DFU can improve ulcer healing rate and shorten ulcer healing time, but more clinical data are needed to clarify some efficacy measures. At the same time, a standardized preparation process for PRP is essential.
Integrated prediction of green bond return under the dual risks of climate change and energy crisis
Authors: Nie Qimiao , Chen Siying , Chen Yiming , Hu Yiguo
Published: December 2023

Prediction of bond return is a classic problem in financial area, providing an important basis for portfolio construction and risk management. The sustainable investment attribute of green bonds has been favored by investors, so that green bonds have become an important component for major asset allocation. However, due to the specific investment focus of green bonds, investors’ return expectations are influenced not only by traditional corporate bond factors, but also by related factors such as climate change and energy transition. Against the backdrop of increasingly severe climate risks and the global energy crisis, this paper analyses the volatility characteristics of China’s green bonds at multiple time scales, and introduces exogenous variables such as returns of the alternative financial assets, climate risks and returns of energy markets for prediction. Based on the LSTM model, the volatility of green bond yield at different time scales is separately predicted using optimal exogenous variable before integration. It is found that the new integrated prediction model can significantly improve the forecasting performance compared to traditional single LSTM models and simple decomposition-integrated models. Further, both climate risks and energy markets variables have a significant improvement effect on predicting green bond in low-frequency item, while energy markets variables also have a better predictive effect on trend items. Building on the use of only LSTM model, it could be further enhanced by integrating more algorithms to select the best single model for each component, further improve the prediction accuracy and provide a more effective quantitative tool for investment decision-making and risk management in related fields.
Behavioral drive and morphological amplification of an aggressive display
Authors: Hastings Philip A.
Published: December 2023

The evolution of conspicuous morphology and related displays is often ascribed to their role in sexual selection. The context of displays together with the phylogenetic sequence of morphological and behavioral innovations provides insight into their evolution. Do conspicuous features function in mate attraction and/or aggression and does a behavioral display evolve before or after the morphological feature most evident in the display? These questions were explored for a unique display and dorsal fin feature in a clade of blenniiform fishes for which both courtship and aggressive displays are known. The anterior dorsal-fin spines of the Spikefin Blenny, Coralliozetus rosenblatti, are elongate. It has a unique courtship display but the fin is held statically erect similar to congeners. This and other species of Coralliozetus, perform a unique aggressive display, the “fin flag”, in which the anterior dorsal fin is waved laterally when encountering conspecifics. The spike-like dorsal fin of C. rosenblatti and its exaggerated lateral movements render this display especially conspicuous. In addition, it performs the fin flag more than twice as often as congeners. Thus, the dorsal fin of the Spikefin Blenny evolved to amplify an extant aggressive display consistent with the behavioral drive hypothesis that posits behavior leads to subsequent morphological evolution making displays more effective.
Gene signatures associated with prognosis and chemotherapy resistance in glioblastoma treated with temozolomide
Authors: Carter Tonia , Valenzuela Robert K. , Yerukala Sathipati Srinivasulu , Medina-Flores Rafael
Published: December 2023

Background:Glioblastoma (GBM) prognosis remains extremely poor despite standard treatment that includes temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy. To discover new GBM drug targets and biomarkers, genes signatures associated with survival and TMZ resistance in GBM patients treated with TMZ were identified.

Methods:GBM cases in The Cancer Genome Atlas who received TMZ (n= 221) were stratified into subgroups that differed by median overall survival (mOS) using network-based stratification to cluster patients whose somatic mutations affected genes in similar modules of a gene interaction network. Gene signatures formed from differentially mutated genes in the subgroup with the longest mOS were used to confirm their association with survival and TMZ resistance in independent datasets. Somatic mutations in these genes also were assessed for an association with OS in an independent group of 37 GBM cases.

Results:Among the four subgroups identified, subgroup four (n= 71 subjects) exhibited the longest mOS at 18.3 months (95% confidence interval: 16.2, 34.1;p= 0.0324). Subsets of the 86 genes that were differentially mutated in this subgroup formed 20-gene and 8-gene signatures that predicted OS in two independent datasets (Spearman’s rho of 0.64 and 0.58 between actual and predicted OS;p< 0.001). Patients with mutations in five of the 86 genes had longer OS in a small, independent sample of 37 GBM cases, but this association did not reach statistical significance (p= 0.07). Thirty-one of the 86 genes formed signatures that distinguished TMZ-resistant GBM samples from controls in three independent datasets (area under the curve ≥ 0.75). The prognostic and TMZ-resistance signatures had eight genes in common (ANG,BACH1,CDKN2C,HMGA1,IFI16,PADI4,SDF4, andTP53INP1). The latter three genes have not been associated with GBM previously.

Conclusion:PADI4,SDF4, andTP53INP1are novel therapy and biomarker candidates for GBM. Further investigation of their oncologic functions may provide new insight into GBM treatment resistance mechanisms.
Effects of novel coronavirus Omicron variant infection on pregnancy outcomes: a retrospective cohort study from Guangzhou
Authors: Xiao Huanshun , Chen Cheng , Huang Shan , Zhang Wenni , Cai Shuangming , Hou Xiangling , Luo Yiping , Lin Yu
Published: December 2023

Objective

Since 2022, Omicron has been circulating in China as a major variant of the novel coronavirus, but the effects of infection with Omicron variants on pregnant women and newborns are unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical characteristics of Omicron infection during pregnancy and its effect on pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed the data of 93 confirmed cases of novel coronavirus infection and 109 non-infected patients admitted to the isolation ward of Guangdong Maternal and Child Health Hospital from December 1, 2022 to January 31, 2023, and statistically analyzed the clinical features of Omicron variant infection during pregnancy and its impact on pregnancy outcomes. Further effects of underlying diseases on Omicron infection in pregnant women were analyzed.

Results

The incubation period of COVID-19 infection was 0.99±0.86 days, 94.38% of patients had fever or other respiratory symptoms, the lymphocyte count in the infected group was lower than that in the uninfected group, and the lymphocyte count was further reduced in the patients with pregnancy complications or complications. Compared with the uninfected group, APTT and PT were prolonged, platelet count and fibrinogen were decreased in the infected group, all of which had statistical significance. COVID-19 infection during pregnancy increased the rate of cesarean section compared to uninfected pregnant patients, and COVID-19 infection in gestational diabetes resulted in a 4.19-fold increase in cesarean section rate. There was no statistically significant difference in gestational age between the two groups. The incidence of intrauterine distress, turbidity of amniotic fluid and neonatal respiratory distress were higher in the infection group. No positive cases of neonatal COVID-19 infection have been found.

Conclusion

The patients infected with omicron during pregnancy often have febrile respiratory symptoms with lymphocyopenia, but the incidence of severe disease is low. Both Omicron infection and gestational diabetes further increase the incidence of cesarean section, and this study found no evidence of vertical transmission of Omicron.
Nodular and diffuse spindle cell infiltration in keloidal scleroderma: a case report
Authors: Li Yiting , Zeng Yibin , Chen Zile , Nie Shu , Wu Zhouwei
Published: December 2023

Keloidal scleroderma is a variant of scleroderma that presents as firm keloidal nodules or plaques. Due to the similarity in morphology and pathology, it is often distinguished from a hypertrophic scar or keloid. We report a case of keloidal scleroderma with rare nodular and diffuse spindle cell infiltration in histopathology. Recognition of this unusual histopathological feature may help clinicians improve their knowledge and avoid misdiagnosis.
Metabolomic signatures of intestinal colonization resistance against Campylobacter jejuni in mice
Authors: Shayya Nizar W. , Bandick Rasmus , Busmann Lia V. , Mousavi Soraya , Bereswill Stefan , Heimesaat Markus M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Campylobacter jejuni stands out as one of the leading causes of bacterial enteritis. In contrast to humans, specific pathogen-free (SPF) laboratory mice display strict intestinal colonization resistance (CR) against C. jejuni, orchestrated by the specific murine intestinal microbiota, as shown by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) earlier.

Methods

Murine infection models, comprising SPF, SAB, hma, and mma mice were employed. FMT and microbiota depletion were confirmed by culture and culture-independent analyses. Targeted metabolome analyses of fecal samples provided insights into the associated metabolomic signatures.

Results

In comparison to hma mice, the murine intestinal microbiota of mma and SPF mice (with CR against C. jejuni) contained significantly elevated numbers of lactobacilli, and Mouse Intestinal Bacteroides, whereas numbers of enterobacteria, enterococci, and Clostridium coccoides group were reduced. Targeted metabolome analysis revealed that fecal samples from mice with CR contained increased levels of secondary bile acids and fatty acids with known antimicrobial activities, but reduced concentrations of amino acids essential for C. jejuni growth as compared to control animals without CR.

Discussion

The findings highlight the role of microbiota-mediated nutrient competition and antibacterial activities of intestinal metabolites in driving murine CR against C. jejuni. The study underscores the complex dynamics of host-microbiota-pathogen interactions and sets the stage for further investigations into the mechanisms driving CR against enteric infections.
Using focused ultrasound to modulate microglial structure and function
Authors: Grewal Sarina , Gonçalves de Andrade Elisa , Kofoed Rikke Hahn , Matthews Paul M. , Aubert Isabelle , Tremblay Marie-Ève , Morse Sophie V.
Published: December 2023

Transcranial focused ultrasound (FUS) has the unique ability to target regions of the brain with high spatial precision, in a minimally invasive manner. Neuromodulation studies have shown that FUS can excite or inhibit neuronal activity, demonstrating its tremendous potential to improve the outcome of neurological diseases. Recent evidence has also shed light on the emerging promise that FUS has, with and without the use of intravenously injected microbubbles, in modulating the blood-brain barrier and the immune cells of the brain. As the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, microglia are at the forefront of the brain’s maintenance and immune defense. Notably, microglia are highly dynamic and continuously survey the brain parenchyma by extending and retracting their processes. This surveillance activity aids microglia in performing key physiological functions required for brain activity and plasticity. In response to stressors, microglia rapidly alter their cellular and molecular profile to help facilitate a return to homeostasis. While the underlying mechanisms by which both FUS and FUS + microbubbles modify microglial structure and function remain largely unknown, several studies in adult mice have reported changes in the expression of the microglia/macrophage marker ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1, and in their phagocytosis, notably of protein aggregates, such as amyloid beta. In this review, we discuss the demonstrated and putative biological effects of FUS and FUS + microbubbles in modulating microglial activities, with an emphasis on the key cellular and molecular changes observed in vitro and in vivo across models of brain health and disease. Understanding how this innovative technology can modulate microglia paves the way for future therapeutic strategies aimed to promote beneficial physiological microglial roles, and prevent or treat maladaptive responses.
Semi-automated motor hotspot search (SAMHS): a framework toward an optimised approach for motor hotspot identification
Authors: Agboada Desmond , Osnabruegge Mirja , Rethwilm Roman , Kanig Carolina , Schwitzgebel Florian , Mack Wolfgang , Schecklmann Martin , Seiberl Wolfgang , Schoisswohl Stefan
Published: December 2023

Background

Motor hotspot identification represents the first step in the determination of the motor threshold and is the basis for the specification of stimulation intensity used for various Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) applications. The level of experimenters’ experience and the methodology of motor hotspot identification differ between laboratories. The need for an optimized and time-efficient technique for motor hotspot identification is therefore substantial.

Objective

With the current work, we present a framework for an optimized and time-efficient semi-automated motor hotspot search (SAMHS) technique utilizing a neuronavigated robot-assisted TMS system (TMS-cobot). Furthermore, we aim to test its practicality and accuracy by a comparison with a manual motor hotspot identification method.

Method

A total of 32 participants took part in this dual-center study. At both study centers, participants underwent manual hotspot search (MHS) with an experienced TMS researcher, and the novel SAMHS procedure with a TMS-cobot (hereafter, called cobot hotspot search, CHS) in a randomized order. Resting motor threshold (RMT), and stimulus intensity to produce 1 mV (SI1mV) peak-to-peak of motor-evoked potential (MEP), as well as MEPs with 120% RMT and SI1mV were recorded as outcome measures for comparison.

Results

Compared to the MHS method, the CHS produced lower RMT, lower SI1mV and a trend-wise higher peak-to-peak MEP amplitude in stimulations with SI1mV. The duration of the CHS procedure was longer than that of the MHS (15.60 vs. 2.43 min on average). However, accuracy of the hotspot was higher for the CHS compared to the MHS.

Conclusions

The SAMHS procedure introduces an optimized motor hotspot determination system that is easy to use, and strikes a fairly good balance between accuracy and speed. This new procedure can thus be deplored by experienced as well as beginner-level TMS researchers.
Evaluation of an English language phoneme-based imagined speech brain computer interface with low-cost electroencephalography
Authors: LaRocco John , Tahmina Qudsia , Lecian Sam , Moore Jason , Helbig Cole , Gupta Surya
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Paralyzed and physically impaired patients face communication difficulties, even when they are mentally coherent and aware. Electroencephalographic (EEG) brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) offer a potential communication method for these people without invasive surgery or physical device controls.

Methods

Although virtual keyboard protocols are well documented in EEG BCI paradigms, these implementations are visually taxing and fatiguing. All English words combine 44 unique phonemes, each corresponding to a unique EEG pattern. In this study, a complete phoneme-based imagined speech EEG BCI was developed and tested on 16 subjects.

Results

Using open-source hardware and software, machine learning models, such as k-nearest neighbor (KNN), reliably achieved a mean accuracy of 97 ± 0.001%, a mean F1 of 0.55 ± 0.01, and a mean AUC-ROC of 0.68 ± 0.002 in a modified one-versus-rest configuration, resulting in an information transfer rate of 304.15 bits per minute. In line with prior literature, the distinguishing feature between phonemes was the gamma power on channels F3 and F7.

Discussion

However, adjustments to feature selection, trial window length, and classifier algorithms may improve performance. In summary, these are iterative changes to a viable method directly deployable in current, commercially available systems and software. The development of an intuitive phoneme-based EEG BCI with open-source hardware and software demonstrates the potential ease with which the technology could be deployed in real-world applications.
Contractility of isolated colonic smooth muscle strips from rats treated with cancer chemotherapy: differential effects of cisplatin and vincristine
Authors: López-Tofiño Yolanda , Barragán del Caz Luis Felipe , Benítez-Álvarez David , Molero-Mateo Paula , Nurgali Kulmira , Vera Gema , Bagües Ana , Abalo Raquel
Published: December 2023

Background

Certain antineoplastic drugs cause gastrointestinal disorders even after the end of treatment. Enteric neuropathy has been associated with some of these alterations. Our goal was to assess the impact of repeated treatment with cisplatin and vincristine on the contractility of circular and longitudinal muscle strips isolated from the rat colon.

Methods

Two cohorts of male rats were used: in cohort 1, rats received one intraperitoneal (ip) injection of saline or cisplatin (2 mg kg–1 week–1) on the first day of weeks 1–5; in cohort 2, rats received two cycles of five daily ip injections (Monday to Friday, weeks 1–2) of saline or vincristine (0.1 mg kg–1 day–1). Body weight and food and water intake were monitored throughout the study. One week after treatment, responses of colonic smooth muscle strips to acetylcholine (10–9–10–5 M) and electrical field stimulation (EFS, 0.1–20 Hz), before and after atropine (10–6 M), were evaluated in an organ bath.

Results

Both drugs decreased body weight gain. Compared to saline, cisplatin significantly decreased responses of both longitudinal and circular smooth muscle strips to EFS, whereas vincristine tended to increase them, although in a non-significant manner. No differences were observed in the muscle response to acetylcholine. Atropine abolished the contractile responses induced by acetylcholine, although those induced by EFS were only partially reduced in the presence of atropine.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that although both drugs cause the development of enteric neuropathy, this seems to have a functional impact only in cisplatin-treated animals. Understanding the effects of chemotherapy on gastrointestinal motor function is vital for enhancing the quality of life of cancer patients.