bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REPRESENTASI KONFLIK SOSIAL REMAJA DALAM MV TOMORROW X TOGETHER “0X1=LOVE SONG (I KNOW I LOVE YOU)”
Authors: Wahyuningratna Ratu Nadya , Baskara Putri Ratu Laura Mulia
Published: August 2023

Remaja merupakan fase transisi dari anak-anak menjadi dewasa yang penuh perubahan dan konflik. Gambaran tentang konflik yang terjadi pada remaja ini banyak dituangkan dalam film ataupun lagu, maupun yang menggabungkan keduanya yaitu dalam video musik. Salah satu musisi yang kerap mengusung tema remaja ini adalah Tomorrow X Together dari Korea Selatan. Melalui lagunya “Love Song”, boyband yang akrab disapa TXT tersebut mengusung tema remaja dan konflik-konflik yang seringkali terjadi pada masa remaja. Dengan menggunakan analisis semiotika Roland Barthes, peneliti ingin melihat bagaimana visual video musik dan lirik lagu merepresentasikan konflik remaja yang terjadi. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, diketahui bahwa video musik membawa pesan-pesan tertentu kepada masyarakat. Dalam hal ini, penggambaran konflik-konflik sosial yang terjadi dalam video musik TXT memiliki pengaruh terhadap interaksi sosial remaja sesuai dengan teori interaksi sosial ekologi
EFEKTIVITAS MATA KULIAH BELA NEGARA MATA KULIAH WAJIB UNIVERSITAS
Authors: Indrawan Jerry , Ilmar Anwar , Aji M. Prakoso
Published: August 2023

Indonesia currently faces multidimensional threats, from small to large, concerning all aspects of the country's life, from ideology, politics, economics, social, culture, defense, and security. The newest nature of the threat has a human security perspective rather than only state security. For that, a thorough effort is needed that is capable of dealing with Threats, Disturbance, Obstacle, Challenge (TDOC) as such. Civil defense can be the answer to such problems because civil defense itself can be interpreted as an obligation and responsibility of citizens to maintain the existence and sovereignty of the state. Civil defense will be optimal if disseminated through formal education. In this case, the formal education in question is at the level of higher education. This paper proposes that civil defense can be held at higher education level in the form of university compulsory course, and is organized under the name civil defense education. This paper will also look at the effectiveness of state defense courses as compulsory university courses.
SOEKARNO AND JAVANESE SOVEREIGNTY CONCEPT CASE STUDY: GUIDED DEMOCRACY ERA
Authors: Kembaren Elisabeth Ermuliana Kembaren
Published: August 2023

This research discusses the influence of the Javanese sovereignty concept in the practices of Soekarno’s regime under the Guided Democracy era (1959-1965). Guided democracy has corrupted the separation of powers in trias politica. The research is a qualitative research designed with a historical, descriptive approach that using literature study. The theory employed based on the javanese sovereignty concept, where kings are the centers of the sovereignty. The research finds that the centralization of power in Soekarno’s regime under the Guided Democracy era reflects the implementation of the Javanese sovereignty concepts as adopted by the kings in the past. The practices that reflect Javanese sovereignty concept in such as the abandonments of the trias politica, Nasakom, as well as the so-called “lighthouse” projects and the application of symbolization of power.
KETERWAKILAN POLITIK PEREMPUAN DI PARLEMEN PERIODE 2019-2024: PERAN PARTAI POLITIK
Authors: Nurdin Nurdin
Published: August 2023

Political parties have an important role in efforts to increase women's political representation in parliament. The most significant function of political parties as gatekeepers is to carry out the recruitment, selection and candidacy of candidates for members of parliament in the general election contestation. This study aims to explain both internal and external factors that influence the role of political parties in increasing women's political representation in parliament in the 2019 election. The research method used is literature study by referring to previous research and secondary data sourced from books, journals, online news, and laws and regulations. The findings of this study reinforce previous research that political parties have a major role in efforts to increase women's political representation in parliament. The role of the party refers to the process of recruitment, selection and candidacy of women, the involvement of women in the organizational structure of the party, and the ideology of political parties. The role and policies of political parties in increasing women's representation are also strongly influenced by gender quota policies, electoral systems and party systems, and women's movement activists.
Modalitas Purnawirawan TNI Sebagai Elite Demokrasi pada Masa Pasca Orde Baru: Studi Kasus Jenderal TNI (Purn.) Moeldoko
Authors: Tanzilla Dean , Rahmawati Restu , Ilmar Anwar
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini mengkaji tentang penggunaan modalitas purnawirawan TNI yang memiliki peran sebagai elite demokrasi pada masa pasca orde baru, studi kasus penelitian ini membahas mengenai modalitas Jenderal TNI (Purn.) Moeldoko dalam memimpin lembaga Kentor Staf Presiden pada masa pemerintahan periode kedua Presiden Joko Widodo. Dalam memainkan peran sebagai elite demokrasi, purnawirawan TNI perlu mengerahkan modalitas yang dimiliki untuk berkomitmen terhadap pembangunan demokrasi dan tidak membawa motif pragmatis ke dalam politik seperti membawa kepentingan militer atau kepentingan segelintir elite yang bertentangan dengan prinsip demokrasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan teori modalitas dan konsep elite demokrasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif eksplanatif yaitu dengan mengandalkan data primer dan data sekunder. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa modalitas budaya, modalitas sosial, dan modalitas politik yang dimiliki oleh Jenderal TNI (Purn.) Moeldoko membawa pengaruh terhadap peran yang dimainkannya sebagai Kepala Staf Kepresidenan RI. Sebagai elite demokrasi, Jenderal TNI (Purn.) Moeldoko sudah memberi kontribusi dalam membangun demokrasi dengan memoisikan diri sebagai enabler, akselerator, debottlenecker, dan mediator melalui jabatan yang didudukinya sebagai Kepala Staf Kepresidenan.
Kesejahteraan Sosial dalam Persepektif Demokrasi dan Otoritarian: Analisis Perbandingan Inggris dan Singapura
Authors: Nurdin Nurdin
Published: August 2023

Terdapat keterkaitan antara kesejahteraan, negara kesejahteraan dan kebijakan kesejahteraan sosial dalam perspektif demokrasi dan otoritarian. Keberhasilan kebijakan kesejahteraan sosial tidak hanya di negara demokrasi Inggris melainkan juga negara otoritarian Singapura. Keberadaan Inggris dan Singapura sebagai negara kesejahteraan telah menjadi bukti empiris globalisasi konsep ini ke seluruh negara di dunia. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dengan analisis komparatif studi kasus Inggris dan Singapura. Hasil penelitian ini memperlihatkan bahwa terdapat persamaan antara Inggris dan Singapura sebagai negara kesejahteraan kapitalis (welfare capitalism) dalam mengimplementasikan kebijakan sosial. Sementara perbedaan antara keduanya terfokus pada pendekatan yang dijalankan sebagai negara kesejahteraan. Keberhasilan kebijakan sosial di Inggris dilakukan dengan pendekatan sistem/strukturalis. Sementara di Singapura keberhasilan penerapan kebijakan sosial lebih dijalankan melalui pendekatan institusional.
Comparison of the 3D-microstructure of human alveolar and fibula bone in microvascular autologous bone transplantation: a synchrotron radiation μ-CT study
Authors: Wüster Jonas , Hesse Bernhard , Rothweiler Rene , Bortel Emely , Gross Christian , Bakhtiyari Shima , King Andrew , Boller Elodie , Gerber Javier , Rendenbach Carsten , Fretwurst Tobias , Preissner Saskia , Heiland Max , Nelson Katja , Nahles Susanne
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Autologous bone transplantation is successfully used in reconstructive surgery of large/critical-sized bone defects, whereby the microvascular free fibula flap is still regarded as the gold standard for the reconstruction of such defects in the head and neck region. Here, we report the morphological and lacunar properties of patient-paired bone samples from eight patients from the jaw (AB; recipient site) and the fibula (FB; donor site) on the micron length-scale using Synchrotron µ-CT. Insights into differences and similarities between these bone structures could offer a better understanding of the underlying mechanism for successful surgical outcomes and might clear the path for optimized, nature-inspired bone scaffold designs.

Methods: Spatial vessel-pore arrangements, bone morphology, fluid-simulation derived permeability tensor, osteocyte lacunar density, and lacunar morphology are compared.

Results: The orientation of the vessel system indicates a homogenous vessel orientation for AB and FB. The average mineral distance (50%) to the closest vessel boundary is higher in AB than in FB (the mean is 96 μm for AB vs. 76 μm for FB; p = 0.021). Average osteocyte lacunar density is found to be higher in AB than in FB (mean 22,874 mm3 vs. 19,376 mm3 for FB; p = 0.038), which might compensate for the high distance from the mineral to the nearest vessel. No significant differences in lacunar volume are found between paired AB and FB.

Discussion: A comparable vessel network and similar distribution of vessel porosity between AB and FB may allow the FB graft to exhibit a high regeneration potential when connected to AB, and this might correlate with a high osteoinductive and osteoconductive potential of FB when connected to AB. Since widely used and potent synthetic bone grafts exist, new insight into the bone structure of well-established autologous bone grafts, such as the free fibula flap, could help to improve the performance of such materials and therefore the design of 3D scaffolds.
Drag reduction using bionic groove surface for underwater vehicles
Authors: Zheng Shihao , Liang Xi , Li Jiayong , Liu Yanyan , Tang Jun
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The reduction of drag is a crucial concern within the shipping industry as it directly influences energy consumption. This study addresses this issue by proposing a novel approach inspired by the unique ridge structure found on killer whale skin. The objective is to develop a non-smooth surface drag reduction method that can effectively decrease drag and improve energy efficiency for ships.

Methods: The study introduces a technique involving the creation of transverse bionic groove surfaces modeled after the killer whale skin’s ridge structure. These grooves are aligned perpendicular to the flow direction and are intended to modify the behavior of turbulent boundary layer flows that form around the ship’s hull. Numerical simulations are employed using the Shear Stress Transport k-ω model to analyze the effects of the proposed groove surface across a wide range of flow conditions. The research investigates the impact of various parameters, such as the width-to-depth ratio (λ/A), groove depth, and inlet velocity, on the drag reduction performance of the bionic groove surface.

Results: The study reveals several key findings. Optimal shape parameters for the bionic groove surface are determined, enabling the most effective drag reduction. The numerical simulations demonstrate that the proposed groove surface yields notable drag reduction benefits within the velocity range of 2∼12 m/s. Specifically, the friction drag reduction ratio is measured at 26.91%, and the total drag reduction ratio at 9.63%. These reductions signify a substantial decrease in the forces opposing the ship’s movement through water, leading to enhanced energy efficiency.

Discussion: Comparative analysis is conducted between the performance of the bionic groove surface and that of a smooth surface. This investigation involves the examination of velocity gradient, streamwise mean velocity, and turbulent intensity. The results indicate that the bionic groove structure effectively mitigates viscous stress and Reynolds stress, which in turn reduces friction drag. This reduction in drag is attributed to the alteration in flow behavior induced by the non-smooth surface.

Conclusion: The study proposes a novel approach for drag reduction in the shipping industry by emulating the ridge structure of killer whale skin. The transverse bionic groove surface, aligned perpendicular to flow direction, demonstrates promising drag reduction outcomes across diverse flow conditions. Through systematic numerical simulations and analysis of key parameters, the research provides insights into the drag reduction mechanism and identifies optimal design parameters for the groove surface. The potential for significant energy savings and improved fuel efficiency in maritime transportation underscores the practical significance of this research.
Evaluating design features to support inclusive, self-directed, and active healthy living behaviours
Authors: Tracada Eleni , Sorensen Allacci MaryAnn
Published: August 2023

Active healthy living design has typically focused on urban and community environments to support physical activity; this article looks at an expanded definition of active healthy living opportunities at building level design for various groups. We wanted to engage youth, adults, and diversely abled people through a form of inclusive design that encourages individuals to venture out of their private homes, workplaces, or other isolating conditions and explore areas of shared spaces or get outside of personal environments and buildings for self-directed, restorative activity. Incentives for people to venture outside of private spaces became even more important for maintaining healthy minds and bodies during the recent pandemic. The objectives of this discussion are to propose a multidisciplinary tool to facilitate decisions around creating shared spaces in different building typologies that promote active, self-directed behaviour by occupants to engage physically, socially, or psychologically with features that support health and wellbeing. We first examined a wide range of theories and design practices for potential applications to building-centred design that supports healthy behaviour, reduces environment stress, and employs space syntax and the Biophilic Healing Index to help encourage healthy behaviours by a wide range of occupant ages and abilities in and around buildings. A rating scale was then associated with criteria representing evidence-based guidelines, and capable of being fitted for use as a teaching-learning and discussion aid. An overview of data from demonstration of the tool is presented, along with feedback on proposed improvements and how these might impact professional practice.
Exploring the relationship between lactate metabolism and immunological function in colorectal cancer through genes identification and analysis
Authors: Zhang Enkui , Zhou Xueliang , Fan Xiaodong , Li Shuchun , Ding Chengsheng , Hong Hiju , Aikemu Batuer , Yang Guang , Yesseyeva Galiya , Yang Xiao , Ma Junjun , Zheng Minhua
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Metabolic dysregulation is a widely acknowledged contributor for the development and tumorigenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC), highlighting the need for reliable prognostic biomarkers in this malignancy.

Methods: Herein, we identified key genes relevant to CRC metabolism through a comprehensive analysis of lactate metabolism-related genes from GSEA MsigDB, employing univariate Cox regression analysis and random forest algorithms. Clinical prognostic analysis was performed following identification of three key genes, and consistent clustering enabled the classification of public datasets into three patterns with significant prognostic differences. The molecular pathways and tumor microenvironment (TME) of these patterns were then investigated through correlation analyses. Quantitative PCR was employed to quantify the mRNA expression levels of the three pivotal genes in CRC tissue. Single-cell RNA sequencing data and fluorescent multiplex immunohistochemistry were utilized to analyze relevant T cells and validate the correlation between key genes and CD4+ T cells.

Results: Our analysis revealed that MPC1, COQ2, and ADAMTS13 significantly stratify the cohort into three patterns with distinct prognoses. Additionally, the immune infiltration and molecular pathways were significantly different for each pattern. Among the key genes, MPC1 and COQ2 were positively associated with good prognosis, whereas ADAMTS13 was negatively associated with good prognosis. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data illustrated that the relationship between three key genes and T cells, which was further confirmed by the results of fluorescent multiplex immunohistochemistry demonstrating a positive correlation between MPC1 and COQ2 with CD4+ T cells and a negative correlation between ADAMTS13 and CD4+ T cells.

Discussion: These findings suggest that the three key lactate metabolism genes, MPC1, COQ2, and ADAMTS13, may serve as effective prognostic biomarkers and support the link between lactate metabolism and the immune microenvironment in CRC.
Antimicrobial activity of dietary supplements based on bacterial lysate of Lactobacillus rhamnosus DV
Authors: Penchuk Yurii , Savytska Maryana , Kobyliak Nazarii , Ostapchenko Danylo , Kolodiy Igor , Onysenko Svitlana , Tsyryuk Olena , Korotkyi Oleksandr , Grygoriev Fedir , Falalyeyeva Tetyana
Published: August 2023

Introduction

According to WHO, antibiotic resistance is increasing to hazardous levels worldwide. Candidiasis often occurs after taking antibiotics. Therefore, antibiotic resistance is a global problem and searching for antibacterial agents is necessary.

Aim

To determine the antimicrobial activity of bacterial lysate of Lactobacillus (L.) rhamnosus DV separately and with plant extracts against bacterial and yeast test cultures.

Material and methods

Antimicrobial activity of Del-Immune V® (cell wall and DNA fragments from a L. rhamnosus DV) separately and with cinnamon, beetroot, and blackcurrant extracts was determined by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Twofold serial dilutions determined the MIC in previously prepared meat-peptone broth (MPB) for bacteria and liquid wort for yeast. In the study, gram-negative (Escherichia coli IEM-1, Proteus vulgaris PА-12, Pseudomonas sp. MI-2, L. rhamnosus 13/2) and gram-positive (Bacillus (B.) subtilis BТ-2, Staphylococcus aureus BМС-1) bacteria, as well as yeast (Candida (C.) albicans D-6, C. tropicalis PE-2, C. utilis BVS-65) were used as test cultures.

Results

The MIC for the studied bacterial test cultures after application of L. rhamnosus DV bacterial lysates was from 1.0 ± 0.05 mg/mL to 12.5 ± 0.63 mg/mL, which was significantly less than that of the thermally inactivated control (MIC from 125.0 ± 6.25 mg/mL to 250.0 ± 12.5 mg/mL). B. subtilis BT-2 culture was the least sensitive to the action of the bacterial lysate (MIC—12.5 ± 0.63 mg/mL). It showed the best antibacterial and antifungal effect bacterial lysate with the phytonutrient blackcurrant.

Conclusions

It was demonstrated that bacterial lysate of lactic acid bacteria L. rhamnosus DV exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties during direct contact with pathogenic agents.
Dismal prognosis of patients with operative indication without surgical intervention in active left-sided infective endocarditis
Authors: Van Hemelrijck Mathias , Sromicki Juri , Frank Michelle , Greutmann Matthias , Ledergerber Bruno , Epprecht Jana , Padrutt Maria , Vogt Paul R. , Carrel Thierry P. , Dzemali Omer , Mestres Carlos-A. , Hasse Barbara
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Around 25% of patients with left-sided infective endocarditis and operative indication do not undergo surgery. Baseline characteristics and outcomes are underreported. This study describes characteristics and outcomes of surgical candidates with surgical intervention or medical treatment only.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of ongoing collected data from a single-center from an observational cohort of patients with infective endocarditis (ENVALVE). Kaplan-Meier estimates for survival was calculated. Factors associated with survival were assessed using a bivariable Cox model. To adjust for confounding by indication, uni- and multivariable logistic regression for the propensity to receive surgery were adjusted.

Results

From January 2018 and December 2021, 154 patients were analyzed: 116 underwent surgery and 38 received medical treatment only. Surgical candidates without surgery were older (70 vs. 62 years, p = 0.001). They had higher preoperative risk profile (EuroSCORE II 14% (7.2–28.6) vs. 5.8% (2.5–20.3), p = 0.002) and more comorbidities. One patient was lost-to-follow-up. Survival analysis revealed a significant higher one-year survival rate among patients following surgery (83.7% vs. 15.3% in the non-surgical group; log-rank test <0.0001). In the final multivariable adjusted model, surgery was less likely among patients with liver cirrhosis [OR = 0.03 (95% CI 0.00–0.30)] and with hemodialysis [OR = 0.014 (95% CI 0.00–0.47)].

Conclusion

Patients with left-sided infective endocarditis who do not undergo surgery despite an operative indication are older, have more comorbidities and therefore higher preoperative risk profile and a low 1-year survival. The role of the Endocarditis Team may be particularly important for the decision-making process in this specific group.
Impact of gender on left atrial low-voltage zones in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation: results of a voltage-guided ablation
Authors: Marzak Halim , Ringele Romain , Matsushita Kensuke , Marchandot Benjamin , Fitouchi Simon , Cardi Thomas , Kanso Mohamad , Schatz Alexandre , Hammann Justine , Ohlmann Patrick , Morel Olivier , Jesel Laurence
Published: August 2023

Background

Gender-related differences have been reported in atrial fibrotic remodeling and prognosis of atrial fibrillation (AF) patients after ablation. We assessed in persistent AF the regional distribution of left atrial (LA) bipolar voltage and the extent of low-voltage zones (LVZ) according to gender as well as the results of a voltage-guided substrate ablation.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent a voltage-guided AF ablation were enrolled. LA endocardial voltage maps were obtained using a 3D electro-anatomical mapping system in sinus rhythm. LVZ was defined as <0.5 mV.

Results

A total of 115 patients were enrolled (74 men, 41 women). The LA bipolar voltage amplitude was twice lower in the whole LA (p < 0.01) and in each atrial region in women compared with men, whereas the LA indexed volume was similar. LVZ were found in 56.1% of women and 16.2% of men (p < 0.01). LVZ were also more extensive in women (p = 0.01), especially in the anterior LA. Atrial voltage alteration occurred earlier in women than in men. In a multivariate analysis, the female sex (OR 12.99; 95% CI, 3.23–51.63, p = 0.0001) and LA indexed volume (OR 1.09; 95% CI, 1.04–1.16, p = 0.001) were predictive of LVZ. Atrial arrhythmia-free survival was similar in men and women 36 months after a single ablation procedure.

Conclusion

The study reports a strong relationship between the female gender and atrial substrate remodeling. The female gender was significantly associated with higher incidence, earlier occurrence, and greater extent of LVZ compared with men. Despite the female-specific characteristics in atrial remodeling, LVZ-guided ablation may improve the AF ablation outcome in women.
Review on metal contamination in equatorial estuaries in the Brazilian Northeast
Authors: Santos Thays Thayanne Luz , Marins Rozane Valente , Alves Letícia Paulino
Published: August 2023

The present study provides an overview and assessment of the metals and trace metals registered in water, sediment, and biota in estuaries of the Equatorial Zone of the Brazilian Northeast (EZBN). The study aims to compare the degree of contamination and highlight necessary complementary research. The EZBN is characterized by the transition between the humid and hot Amazonian climate and the hot and dry semiarid climate. The spatial distribution identified enrichment for Cu, Pb, Zn, Hg, and Fe in the sediment, and sequential extraction of metals suggested low to medium mobility of metals along the environments. The Parnaíba River Delta, Curimataú, and the Anil and Bacanga estuaries were the environments with the lowest sediment quality for Pb, Zn, Cu, and Fe, identified by the geoaccumulation index (Igeo). The deposits in these estuaries were related to anthropogenic contributions from domestic sewage and inadequate disposal of wastewater from shrimp farms. However, more studies to determine the natural background levels based on sediment cores and metal speciation are necessary to better differentiate between natural and anthropic sources. Oysters, carnivorous fishes, and crustaceans had the best feedback as biomonitors for Cu, Pb, Zn, and Hg, but the application of biomonitoring needs to be expanded and maintained so that the potential for environmental degradation, which can have significant consequences both for the ecosystem and for human health, can be closely monitored in the EZBN estuaries.
Design and validation of two tools to observe and analyze history lessons in secondary education
Authors: Miralles-Sánchez Pedro , Gómez-Carrasco Cosme J. , Rodríguez-Medina Jairo
Published: August 2023

This article focuses on the validation of two data collection instruments, one is the History Class Observation Tool (HCOT) and the other is focus groups with students, trainee teachers and tutors from secondary school classrooms. The main objective of the study is to obtain evidence of validity of the two instruments to be used in research on the design, validation, implementation, and evaluation of training units. All this in order to improve the teaching-learning process of historical thinking skills in high school students with the aim of forming critical citizens. The initial set of 32 observable behaviours was reviewed by 9 judges, who rated each on a scale of 0 (strongly disagree) to 3 (strongly agree) in terms of appropriateness, importance, clarity of wording, and observability. As can be seen from the results, both instruments according to the agreement indices suggest that the items, overall, can be considered suitable and important, and observable in the case of the observation instrument, as well as having clarity of wording appropriate to the objectives of both, with high confidence on the part of the experts. If we compare it with similar studies that we have discussed previously, we can see how this validation process has been quite rigorous and novel following some guidelines set previously in certain studies.
Establishment of cell-lines stably expressing recombinant Japanese eel follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone using CHO-DG44 cells: fully induced ovarian development at different modes
Authors: Kazeto Yukinori , Ito Risa , Tanaka Toshiomi , Suzuki Hiroshi , Ozaki Yuichi , Okuzawa Koichi , Gen Koichiro
Published: August 2023

The gonadotropins (Gth), follicle-stimulating hormone (Fsh) and luteinizing hormone (Lh), play central roles in gametogenesis in vertebrates. However, available information on their differential actions in teleost, especially in vivo, is insufficient. In this study, we established stable CHO-DG44 cell lines expressing long-lasting recombinant Japanese eel Fsh and Lh with extra O-glycosylation sites (Fsh-hCTP and Lh-hCTP), which were produced in abundance. Immature female eels received weekly intraperitoneal injections of Gths. Fsh-hCTP induced the entire ovarian development by 8 weeks from the beginning of injection; thus, the ovaries of most fish were at the migratory nucleus stage while the same stage was observed in eels after 4 weeks in the Lh-hCTP-treated group. In contrast, all pretreated and saline-injected eels were in the pre-vitellogenic stage. Gonadosomatic indices in the Fsh-hCTP-treated group were significantly higher than those in the Lh-hCTP group at the migratory nucleus stage because of the significantly higher frequency of advanced ovarian follicles. Ovarian mRNA levels of genes related to E2 production (cyp11a1, cyp17a1, cyp19a1, hsd3b, fshr, and lhr) were measured using real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). All genes were induced by both Fsh-hCTP and Lh-hCTP, with a peak at either the mid- or late vitellogenic stages. Transcript abundance of cyp19a1 and fshr in the Lh-hCTP group were significantly higher than those in the Fsh-hCTP group, whereas no difference in the expression of other genes was observed between the groups. Fluctuations in serum levels of sex steroid hormones (estradiol-17β, 11-ketotestosterone, and testosterone) in female eels were comparable in the Fsh-hCTP and Lh-hCTP groups, thus increasing toward the maturational phase. Furthermore, the fecundity of the eels induced to mature by Fsh-hCTP was significantly higher than that induced by Lh-hCTP. These findings indicate that Fsh and Lh can induce ovarian development in distinctively different modes in the Japanese eel.
Risk factors and drug discovery for cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetes mellitus using artificial intelligence interpretation and graph neural networks
Authors: Zhang Xin , Xie Jiajia , You Xiong , Gong Houwu
Published: August 2023

Background

Among the 382 million diabetic patients worldwide, approximately 30% experience neuropathy, and one-fifth of these patients eventually develop diabetes cognitive impairment (CI). However, the mechanism underlying diabetes CI remains unknown, and early diagnostic methods or effective treatments are currently not available.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the risk factors for CI in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), screen potential therapeutic drugs for T2DM-CI, and provide evidence for preventing and treating T2DM-CI.

Methods

This study focused on the T2DM population admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine. Sociodemographic data and clinical objective indicators of T2DM patients admitted from January 2018 to December 2022 were collected. Based on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Scale scores, 719 patients were categorized into two groups, the T2DM-CI group with CI and the T2DM-N group with normal cognition. The survey content included demographic characteristics, laboratory serological indicators, complications, and medication information. Six machine learning algorithms were used to analyze the risk factors of T2DM-CI, and the Shapley method was used to enhance model interpretability. Furthermore, we developed a graph neural network (GNN) model to identify potential drugs associated with T2DM-CI.

Results

Our results showed that the T2DM-CI risk prediction model based on Catboost exhibited superior performance with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.95 (specificity of 93.17% and sensitivity of 78.58%). Diabetes duration, age, education level, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), drinking, and intestinal flora were identified as risk factors for T2DM-CI. The top 10 potential drugs related to T2DM-CI, including Metformin, Liraglutide, and Lixisenatide, were selected by the GNN model. Some herbs, such as licorice and cuscutae semen, were also included. Finally, we discovered the mechanism of herbal medicine interventions in gut microbiota.

Conclusion

The method based on Interpreting AI and GNN can identify the risk factors and potential drugs associated with T2DM-CI.
Proteomic analysis of diabetic retinas
Authors: Starr Christopher R. , Zhylkibayev Assylbek , Mobley James A. , Gorbatyuk Marina S.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

As a metabolic disease, diabetes often leads to health complications such as heart failure, nephropathy, neurological disorders, and vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) affects as many as 100 million people worldwide. The mechanism of DR is complex and known to impact both neural and vascular components in the retina. While recent advances in the field have identified major cellular signaling contributing to DR pathogenesis, little has been reported on the protein post-translational modifications (PTM) - known to define protein localization, function, and activity - in the diabetic retina overall. Protein glycosylation is the enzymatic addition of carbohydrates to proteins, which can influence many protein attributes including folding, stability, function, and subcellular localization. O-linked glycosylation is the addition of sugars to an oxygen atom in amino acids with a free oxygen atom in their side chain (i.e., threonine, serine). To date, more than 100 congenital disorders of glycosylation have been described. However, no studies have identified the retinal O-linked glycoproteome in health or disease. With a critical need to expedite the discovery of PTMomics in diabetic retinas, we identified both global changes in protein levels and the retinal O-glycoproteome of control and diabetic mice.

Methods

We used liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry-based proteomics and high throughput screening to identify proteins differentially expressed and proteins differentially O-glycosylated in the retinas of wildtype and diabetic mice.

Results

Changes in both global expression levels of proteins and proteins differentially glycosylated in the retinas of wild-type and diabetic mice have been identified. We provide evidence that diabetes shifts both global expression levels and O-glycosylation of metabolic and synaptic proteins in the retina.

Discussion

Here we report changes in the retinal proteome of diabetic mice. We highlight alterations in global proteins involved in metabolic processes, maintaining cellular structure, trafficking, and neuronal processes. We then showed changes in O-linked glycosylation of individual proteins in the diabetic retina.
Tetra-ARMS PCR analysis of angiotensinogen AGT T174M (rs4762) genetic polymorphism in diabetic patients: a comprehensive study
Authors: Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid , Shahid Momina , Suhail Shaleem , Rehman Kanwal , Nadeem Ahmed , Mir Tahir Maqbool
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose

Hypertension (HTN) is a multifactorial chronic disease that poses a significant global health burden and is associated with increased mortality rates. It often coexists with other conditions, such as cardiovascular, liver, and renal diseases, and has a strong association with diabetes mellitus. Insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction commonly occur in individuals with both HTN and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Genetic factors, along with environmental and pathological factors, play a role in the development of HTN. Recent studies have revealed the influence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in various genes on HTN. In this study, we aimed to investigate the genetic polymorphism of angiotensinogen (AGT) T174M (rs4762) and its association with HTN in diabetic patients.

Methods

A total of 300 participants were enrolled in this study and divided into three groups: control, hypertensive, and hypertensive diabetic. Blood samples were collected, and predetermined biochemical parameters were assessed. Genotyping of the AGT T174M (rs4762) gene was conducted using Tetra ARMS PCR with specific primers.

Results

The study findings revealed a significant association between AGT T174M (rs4762) genotype and HTN in diabetic patients within the Pakistani population. The C/T genotype of AGT T174M (rs4762) was found to be significant in both the hypertensive and hypertensive diabetic participants compared to the control group. This genotype was identified as a risk factor for developing HTN in both the hypertensive and hypertensive diabetic participants.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a significant association between AGT T174M (rs4762) genetic polymorphism and HTN in diabetic patients. The C/T genotype of AGT T174M (rs4762) may serve as a potential marker for identifying individuals at risk of developing HTN, specifically in the hypertensive and hypertensive diabetic populations. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and validate these findings in larger cohorts.
Identification and characterization of ecdysis-related neuropeptides in the lone star tick Amblyomma americanum
Authors: Lyu Bo , Li Jingjing , Niemeyer Brigid , Stanley David , Song Qisheng
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, is an important ectoparasite known for transmitting diseases to humans and animals. Ecdysis-related neuropeptides (ERNs) control behaviors crucial for arthropods to shed exoskeletons. However, ERN identification and characterization in A. americanum remain incomplete.

Methods

We investigated ERNs in A. americanum, assessing their evolutionary relationships, protein properties, and functions. Phylogeny, sequence alignment, and domain structures of ERNs were analyzed. ERN functionality was explored using enrichment analysis, and developmental and tissue-specific ERN expression profiles were examined using qPCR and RNAi experiments.

Results and discussion

The study shows that ERN catalogs (i.e., eclosion hormone, corazonin, and bursicon) are found in most arachnids, and these ERNs in A. americanum have high evolutionary relatedness with other tick species. Protein modeling analysis indicates that ERNs primarily consist of secondary structures and protein stabilizing forces (i.e., hydrophobic clusters, hydrogen bond networks, and salt bridges). Gene functional analysis shows that ENRs are involved in many ecdysis-related functions, including ecdysis-triggering hormone activity, neuropeptide signaling pathway, and corazonin receptor binding. Bursicon proteins have functions in chitin binding and G protein-coupled receptor activity and strong interactions with leucine-rich repeat-containing G-protein coupled receptor 5. ERNs were expressed in higher levels in newly molted adults and synganglia. RNAi-mediated knockdown of burs α and burs β expression led to a significant decrease in the expression of an antimicrobial peptide, defensin, suggesting they might act in signaling or regulatory pathways that control the expression of immune-related genes. Arthropods are vulnerable immediately after molting because new cuticles are soft and susceptible to injury and pathogen infections. Bursicon homodimers act in prophylactic immunity during this vulnerable period by increasing the synthesis of transcripts encoding antimicrobial peptides to protect them from microbial invasion. Collectively, the expression pattern and characterization of ERNs in this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the physiological processes in A. americanum.
Modeling and analysis of the LC filter-integrated quasi Z-source indirect matrix converter for the wind energy conversion system
Authors: Maheswari K. T. , Kumar C. , Balachandran Praveen Kumar , Senjyu Tomonobu
Published: August 2023

A Quasi Z-Source Indirect Matrix Converter (QZSIMC) is proposed in this paper for Permanent Magnet Generator (PMG) based Direct Drive Wind Energy Conversion Systems (DDWECS) to enhance the voltage transfer ratio and also to control the output voltage under various loading conditions. The QZSIMC comprises three Quasi Z-Source (QZS) networks connected between PMG and load through a three-phase Indirect Matrix Converter (IMC). Two different PWM control techniques such as Carrier Based Pulse Width Modulation Technique and Modified Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation Technique are proposed to analyze the performance of QZSIMC. By changing the shoot through time period, the duty ratio of quasi Z-Source network can be increased which in turn increases the boost factor of both QZSIMC without affecting the efficiency of the converter. A closed-loop control system has also been designed to sustain constant parameters at the output. The proposed QZSIMC for PMG based DDWECS along with two different PWM Control Schemes are to be modeled using MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. To validate the simulation results, a 1 kW, 415 V, 50 Hz experimental setup with an FPGA SPARTAN-6 processor has been developed in the laboratory for QZSIMC and the results are investigated based on the parameters such as output voltage, output current, Switching Stress, Boost Factor, inductor current, capacitor voltage, Total Harmonic Distortion.
Experimental and theoretical analysis of rock failure characteristics by a single PDC cutter under downhole pressurized conditions
Authors: Rong Zhun , Dai Xianwei , Yan Shuang , Liu Yang , Zhang Qi , Fu Hao , Yao Jianlin
Published: August 2023

The development of high-efficiency polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits plays a major role in developing unconventional oil and gas. Thereby, a series of single cutter tests have been conducted in the past few years. However, most of them were performed under atmosphere conditions due to the limitation of the experimental setup. In the present study, a series of single cutter experiments were performed under pressurized conditions, in which both principal stress and hydrostatic pressures were loaded with a self-developed facility. The cutting force, topography of cutting grooves, and mechanical specific energy (MSE) were analyzed to evaluate rock failure efficiency. Furthermore, a theoretical model was developed to study stress evolution. Combined with experimental results, the rock failure mechanism and the effects of bottom hole pressures on rock breaking characteristics were revealed. The results indicate that the increase in principal stress and hydrostatic pressures cause larger cutting forces and reduced rock cutting efficiency. Additionally, a larger hydrostatic pressure will promote the propagation of subsurface cracks, leading to larger roughness of cutting grooves and facilitating the subsequent rock cutting process. In this study, the hydrostatic pressure has the greatest impact on rock failure process, followed by the principal stress when parallel to the cutting direction. Comparing the experimental and simulation results, we can find that only a fraction of cutting force is directly utilized in breaking rocks, while the remaining force is applied to overcome the friction induced by the flow of cuttings along the cutter surface. Consequently, measures should be taken to prevent bit balling and decrease the friction force, thus weakening the effects of hydrostatic pressures and improving the efficiency of PDC bits.
The concept of smart cities: a sustainability aspect for future urban development based on different cities
Authors: Addas Abdullah
Published: August 2023

To meet the needs of residents, scientists have suggested the concept of smart cities for urban transformation. Urban green spaces (UGSs) are designed to improve lifestyles. Environmental performance on a global scale is becoming challenging due to climatic changes and rapid advancement. To remedy these issues, the establishment of highly sustainable and healthier ecosystems is a crucial demand, placing an emphasis on the design of smart cities to prevent disease and address the basics of living quality. Urban populations are increasing enormously, which is a strong obstacle to developing a pollution-free environment. This study examines the current developments of cities, especially the sustainability of smart cities, which is required to meet the current demands. In addition to the developments, the ranking of different cities is compared. To explain the climate-related goals, national and international objectives and the legal framework are considered. The study compares the cities of Vienna, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Hamburg. The comparison is based on four categories: land distribution and use; mobility and transport; building standards; and supply and disposal. Owing to the high standard of living and its leading position in various rankings, special attention is paid to Vienna. The work is well developed with various components of sustainability and future development to enhance the quality of life and minimize air pollution. Finally, the problems and improvement possibilities of the cities are discussed. The study aims to look at the sustainability goals and projects that could be important in an ecological and sustainable city in the future. The comparison study of different cities shows the importance of smart cities and their effect on health.
Surface urban heat island effect and its spatiotemporal dynamics in metropolitan area: a case study in the Zhengzhou metropolitan area, China
Authors: Meng Fei , Yan Shuling , Tian Guanghui , Wang Yudong
Published: August 2023

The deterioration of the urban surface thermal environment has seriously affected regional environments and human health, becoming a critical ecological problem faced by cities worldwide. This study focused on surface urban heat island effect in metropolitan area and selected the emerging metropolitan area of Zhengzhou, China, as a case study. Based on the MODIS land surface temperature data obtained from the Google Earth Engine the surface urban heat island intensity (SUHII) was calculated and its temporal and spatial dynamics were analyzed from 2003 to 2022. The main findings indicated that Zhengzhou, the core city of the metropolitan area, had the strongest urban heat island effect with day surface urban heat island intensity of 1.10°C and night SUHII of 1.39°C). Generally, the average annual SUHII was higher during the day than at night, and the maximum value was detected in summer (2.43°C). SUHII showed an increasing trend at night, especially in summer during the study period. It decreased obviously in urban centers during the day, while it increased obviously in the outer urban areas at night. The results of this study contributed to the understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of the urban heat island effect in the Zhengzhou metropolitan area.
Pharmacogenetics and phenoconversion: the influence on side effects experienced by psychiatric patients
Authors: den Uil Manon G. , Hut Hannelotte W. , Wagelaar Kay R. , Abdullah-Koolmees Heshu , Cahn Wiepke , Wilting Ingeborg , Deneer Vera H. M.
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Preventing side effects is important to ensure optimal psychopharmacotherapy and therapeutic adherence among psychiatric patients. Obtaining the pharmacogenetic profile of CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 can play an important role in this. When the genotype-predicted phenotype shifts because of the use of co-medication, this is called phenoconversion. The aim was to study the influence of the pharmacogenetic (PGx) profile and phenoconversion on side effects experienced by psychiatric patients.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed using data from 117 patients from a psychiatric outpatient clinic. Patients were genotyped with a psychiatric PGx panel and side effects were evaluated using the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersølgelser side effects rating scale (UKU).

Results: Of all patients, 10.3% and 9.4% underwent phenoconversion (any shift in predicted phenotype) for CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 respectively. No significant associations were found between the phenotype and UKU-score. 75% of the patients with an Intermediate metabolizer (IM) or Poor metabolizer (PM) phenoconverted phenotype of CYP2C19 experienced nausea and vomiting compared to 9.1% of the Normal metabolizer (NM) and Ultrarapid metabolizer (UM) patients (p = 0.033). 64% of the patients with an IM or PM phenoconverted phenotype of CYP2D6 experienced the side effect depression compared to 30.4% NMs and UMs (p = 0.020). CYP2D6 IM and PM patients had a higher concentration-dose ratio than NM patients (p < 0.05).

Discussion: This study underlines the importance to consider phenoconversion when looking at a patient’s genotype. This is important for a better prediction of the phenotype and preventing possible side effects under a specific psychopharmacotherapy.