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Purpose – The objective of this study is to ascertain consumers' interest in purchasing electric vehicles by examining the correlation between the consumer purchase intention variable and the independent variables, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, and price sensitivity as moderating factors. Methodology – The type of research carried out in this research is causal associative research with quantitative techniques. The population of this study are vehicle users using fuel oil in the JABODETABEK area and who do not yet own an electric vehicle. The sample in this study was 119 car users who use oil fuel. Data processing uses SmartPLS software to measure research data using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method. Findings – The study's findings indicate that although subjective norms have no bearing on customer purchase intention, attitude, perceived behavioural control, and price sensitivity do. The association between price sensitivity and subjective norms is also influenced, although it is unaffected by the relationship between attitude, perceived behavioural control, and consumer purchase intention. Originality/Novelty – This research model uses the price sensitivity variable as an intervening variable for consumer purchase intention for electric vehicles among oil-fueled vehicle users who have never used an electric car in the Jabodetabek area (Indonesia).

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the use of ispring suite assisted number pattern learning media on the mathematics learning outcomes of class VIII students. This research is a quantitative research using experimental methods and using a pretest-posttest control group design. Sampling used the Random Sampling technique and the selected classes were class VIII-6 as the experimental class and class VIII-4 as the control class. The research instrument uses a learning achievement test in the form of a description/essay. Inferential analysis was performed using the anacova test. The results showed that there was a positive and significant effect on the use of iSpring Suite assisted number pattern learning media on students' mathematics learning outcomes

Abstract Dysregulated activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is a frequent or common event during advanced progression of multiple cancers. With this signaling activation, it enhances their tumorigenic growth and facilitates metastasis and therapy resistance. Advances show that this signaling pathway can play dual regulatory roles in the control of cellular processes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stemness in cancer progression. Aberrant activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is shown to be common in prostate cancer and also castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). However, the transcriptional regulators of this pathway in prostate cancer are still not well characterized. NURR1 (NR4A2) is an orphan nuclear receptor and plays an important role in the development of dopaminergic neurons. Previously, we have shown that NURR1 exhibits an upregulation in isolated prostate cancer stem-like cells (PCSCs) and a xenograft model of CRPC. In this study, we further confirmed that NURR1 exhibited an upregulation in prostate cancer and also enhanced expression in prostate cancer cell lines. Functional and molecular analyses showed that NURR1 could act to promote both in vitro (cancer stemness and EMT) and also in vivo oncogenic growth of prostate cancer cells (metastasis and castration resistance) via its direct transactivation of CTNNB1 (β-catenin) and activation of β-catenin to mediate the activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Moreover, we also demonstrated that NURR1 activity in prostate cancer cells could be modulated by small molecules, implicating that NURR1 could be a potential therapeutic target for advanced prostate cancer management.

Abstract Background Vancomycin is a commonly prescribed antibiotic to treat gram-positive infections. The efficacy of vancomycin is known to be directly related to the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) index of the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) divided by the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the pathogen. However, in most countries, steady-state plasma concentrations are used as a surrogate parameter of target AUC/MIC, but this practice has some drawbacks. Hence, direct AUC-guided monitoring of vancomycin using model-informed precision dosing (MIPD) tools has been proposed for earlier attainment of target concentrations and reducing vancomycin-related nephrotoxicity. However, solid scientific evidence for these benefits in clinical practice is still lacking. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to investigate the clinical utility of MIPD dosing of vancomycin administered via continuous infusion in hospitalized adults. Methods Participants from 11 wards at two Belgian hospitals are randomly allocated to the intervention group or the standard-of-care comparator group. In the intervention group, clinical pharmacists perform dose calculations using CE-labeled MIPD software and target an AUC24h of 400 to 600 mg × h/L, whereas patients in the comparator group receive standard-of-care dosing and monitoring according to the institutional guidelines. The primary endpoint is the proportion of patients reaching the target AUC24h/MIC of 400–600 between 48 and 72 h after start of vancomycin treatment. Secondary endpoints are the proportion of patients with (worsening) acute kidney injury (AKI) during and until 48 h after stop of vancomycin treatment, the proportion of patients reaching target AUC24h/MIC of 400–600 between 72 and 96 h after start of vancomycin treatment, and the proportion of time within the target AUC24h/MIC of 400–600. Discussion This trial will clarify the propagated benefits and provide new insights into how to optimally monitor vancomycin treatment. Trial registration EudraCT number: 2021-003670-31. Registered June 28, 2021. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05535075. Registered September 10, 2022. Protocol version 3, protocol date: April 21, 2023.

Three months after the first shipment of RTS,S1/AS01 vaccines, Cameroon started, on 22 January 2024, to roll out malaria vaccines in 42 districts among the most at risk for malaria. Cameroon adopted and implemented the World Health Organization (WHO) malaria vaccine readiness assessment tool to monitor the implementation of preintroduction activities at the district and national levels. One week before the start of the vaccine rollout, overall readiness was estimated at 89% at a national level with two out of the five components of readiness assessment surpassing 95% of performance (vaccine, cold chain and logistics and training) and three components between 80% and 95% (planning, monitoring and supervision, and advocacy, social mobilisation and communication). ‘Vaccine, cold chain and logistics’ was the component with the highest number of districts recording below 80% readiness. The South-West and North-West, two regions with a high level of insecurity, were the regions with the highest number of districts that recorded a readiness performance below 80% in the five components. To monitor progress in vaccine rollout daily, Cameroon piloted a system for capturing immunisation data by vaccination session coupled with an interactive dashboard using the R Shiny platform. In addition to displaying data on vaccine uptake, this dashboard allows the generation of the monthly immunisation report for all antigens, ensuring linkage to the regular immunisation data system based on the end-of-month reporting through District Health Information Software 2. Such a hybrid system complies with the malaria vaccine rollout principle of full integration into routine immunisation coupled with strengthened management of operations.

Basal Stem Rot (BSR), caused by Ganoderma spp., is one of the most important emerging diseases of oil palm in Colombia and is so far restricted to only two producing areas in the country. However, despite the controls established to prevent its spread to new areas, containment has not been possible. This study aimed to understand BSR’s propagation mechanisms and related environmental conditions by measuring Ganoderma basidiospores’ concentrations at various heights using four 7-day Burkard volumetric samplers in a heavily affected plantation. Meteorological data, including solar radiation, temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind speed, were also recorded. Analysis revealed higher basidiospore concentrations below 4 m, peaking at 02:00 h, with increased levels towards the study’s end. Spore concentrations were not directly influenced by temperature, humidity, or precipitation, but showed higher releases during drier periods. A significant correlation was found between wind speed and spore concentration, particularly below 1.5 m/s, though higher speeds might aid long-distance pathogen spread. This study highlights the complexity of BSR propagation and the need for continued monitoring and research to manage its impact on Colombia’s oil palm industry.

Abstract Tropical peatlands are globally significant in the terrestrial carbon cycle as they are comprised of a large forest carbon sink and a large peat carbon store—both of which can potentially be exchanged with the atmosphere on decadal time frames. Greenhouse gas emissions from fire-disturbance and development of tropical peatlands over the last few decades, and the potential for ongoing emissions, highlights the need for policy to slow or halt emissions and to activate mechanisms to sequester carbon through restoration of degraded peatlands. The UN REDD + scheme provides a means for developing countries to receive payments for avoided deforestation and forest degradation, but the steps to achieve REDD+ compliance are rigorous and the details required can be a barrier to activating benefits—especially for peatlands where repeated cycles of fire interrupt forest recovery and create a range of recovery classes. Therefore, to improve estimates of peat fire emissions and of carbon balance of tropical peatlands, the biomass and combustion factor parameters need to be developed and applied according to forest recovery stage. In this study we use published activity data from the extensive 1997 fires in the peatlands of Indonesian Borneo to detail a transparent and accountable way to estimate and report emissions from tropical peatland fires. This example for estimating and reporting emissions is provided to assist REDD+ countries to efficiently develop their capacity for improving emissions estimates from fire-impacted tropical peatlands.

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis efek eko-enzim terhadap produksi telur, fertilitas, daya tetas ayam IPB-D1. Ayam yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu sebayak 96 ekor (72 betina dan 24 jantan). Metode yang digunakan adalah Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) yang terdiri dari 4 perlakuan dan 6 ulangan, tiap ulangan ada 4 ekor ayam (1 jantan, 3 betina). Perlakuan yang diberikan yaitu: P1 = air minum tanpa eko-enzim (kontrol), P2 = 1 cc eko-enzim/L air minum / 3 hari, P3 = 2 cc eko-enzim/L air minum /3 hari, P4 = 3 cc eko-enzim/L air minum/ 3 hari. Jumlah telur yang digunakan untuk mengamati kualitas telur yaitu sebanyak 72 butir, 6 butir tiap perlakuan, dan 3 ulangan. Hasil analisis statistik berpengaruh nyata (P

The fifth wave of COVID-19 in Hong Kong (2022) had brought a series of chaos to society. Nevertheless, its Asian neighbours, namely Singapore and Macao, have avoided such chaos. By investigating the well-rounded preventive measures and social environment in Singapore and Macao, this article highlights the Hong Kong government’s “idleness”. It reveals that the relationship between a government and its people does play a significant role in operating COVID-19 measures, which could directly prevent a large-scale outbreak.

Abstract Background The use of antibiotics in mild to severe acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains controversial. Aim To explore in-hospital antibiotic use in severe acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD), to analyze determinants of in-hospital antibiotic use, and to investigate its association with hospital length of stay (LOS) and in-hospital mortality. Methods A retrospective, observational study was conducted in Ghent University Hospital. Severe AECOPD were defined as hospitalizations for AECOPD (ICD-10 J44.0 and J44.1) discharged between 2016 and 2021. Patients with a concomitant diagnosis of pneumonia or ‘pure’ asthma were excluded. An alluvial plot was used to describe antibiotic treatment patterns. Logistic regression analyses identified determinants of in-hospital antibiotic use. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were used to compare time to discharge alive and time to in-hospital death between antibiotic-treated and non-antibiotic-treated AECOPD patients. Results In total, 431 AECOPD patients (mean age 70 years, 63% males) were included. More than two-thirds (68%) of patients were treated with antibiotics, mainly amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. In multivariable analysis, several patient-related variables (age, body mass index (BMI), cancer), treatment-related variables (maintenance azithromycin, theophylline), clinical variables (sputum volume and body temperature) and laboratory results (C-reactive protein (CRP) levels) were associated with in-hospital antibiotic use independent of sputum purulence, neutrophil counts, inhaled corticosteroids and intensive care unit of which CRP level was the strongest determinant. The median hospital LOS was significantly longer in antibiotic-treated patients (6 days [4–10]) compared to non-antibiotic-treated patients (4 days [2–7]) (p

Stabilisasi tanah adalah suatu proses untuk memperbaiki sifat-sifat tanah dengan menambahkan bahan aditif agar dapat menaikkan kekuatan tanah. Tanah lempung adalah jenis tanah yang memiliki nilai daya dukung yang kecil sehingga diperlukan upaya stabilisasi agar dapat meningkatkan nilai daya dukungnya. Wilayah Indonesia cenderung mempunyai tanah jenis lempung contohnya seperti daerah Universitas Musamus, Rimba Jaya, Kabupaten Merauke, Provinsi Papua Selatan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu untuk mengetahui karakteristik tanah dan untuk mengetahui pengaruh penambahan semen + tailing terhadap nilai kuat tekan bebas. Di dalam penelitian ini, proses stabilisasi yaitu mencampur tanah asli dengan semen + tailing dalam berbagai variasi yaitu 8% semen + 5% tailing, 8% semen + 10% tailing, dan 8% semen + 15% tailing. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian diperoleh bahwa sampel tanah dapat diklasifikasikan sebagai tanah lempung dengan plastisitas tinggi yaitu A-6 menurut AASHTO. Penambahan semen dan tailing mempengaruhi nilai kuat tekan bebas, tanah asli memiliki nilai kuat tekan 9.62 kg/ setelah distabilisasi dengan kadar 8% semen dan tailing dengan variasi kadar 5%, 10% dan 15% nilai UCS yang didapatkan adalah 21.73 kg/ , 24.95 kg/ , dan 26.19 kg/ . Selain itu, hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahwa penambahan semen dan tailing dengan variasi persentase dapat meningkatkan nilai CBR soaked menjadi 10.71% dengan persentase optimum pada kadar fly ash 15%. Berdasarkan hasil tersebut dapat disimpulkan bahwa semen dan tailing mampu menaikkan daya dukung tanah lempung. Soil stabilization is a process to improve soil properties by adding additives to increase soil strength. Clay soil is a type of soil that has a small bearing capacity, therefore stabilization is needed to increase its bearing capacity value. The majority of Indonesia's territory tends to have clay soil type, for example, around Muramus University, Rimba Jaya, Merauke, South Papua. The aim of this research is to determine the characteristics of the soil and to ensure the effectiveness of the addition of cement and tailing on the value of unconfined compressive strength. In this research, the stabilization process involved mixing original soil with cement + tailing in any variations, which is 8% cement + 5% tailing ash, 8% cement + 10% tailing, and 8% cement + 15% tailing. The soil sample can be classified as clay with high plasticity, namely A-6 according to AASHTO. The addition of cement + tailing affects the value of unconfined compressive strength, the original soil has a compressive strength value of 9.62 kg/cm2 after stabilization with 8% cement and tailing with varying levels of 5%, 10% and 15% UCS values ​​obtained are 21.73 kg/ , 24.95 kg/ , dan 26.19 kg/ . In addition, the results shows that the addition of cement and tailing with varying percentages can increase the soaked CBR value to 10.71% with the optimum percentage at 15% tailing composition.

This study aims to provide an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector, map the distribution of greenhouse gas emissions, and formulate effective mitigation strategies in Minahasa District. Primary data on rice field types, land processing systems, and fertilizer doses were obtained from the respondents. The method is the interview, and the instrument is the questionnaire. Secondary data is in the form of planting area and emission factor data. Data processing uses the Tier-1 method to obtain the amount of CO2, CH4, and N2O emissions. Spatial mapping of greenhouse gas emissions is done with the help of ArcMap. After that, the greenhouse gas mitigation strategy was formulated. Total agricultural greenhouse gas emissions: 3,578,093.27 t CO2-eq/y, consists of emissions CH4: 71,711.87 t CO2-eq/y; CO2 Fertilizer: 1,828,235.40 t/y; N20 Land Managed: 1,665,299.66 t CO2-eq/y; and emission N2O Indirect: 12,846.33 t CO2-eq/y. The largest gas emissions are CO2 (51.10 %) and N2O Land Managed (46.54 %). The largest GHG-contributing is West Langowan District (285,165.25 t CO2-eq/y). Various adaptation efforts are to adjust planting time and patterns and reduce the use of inorganic fertilizers. In contrast, mitigation efforts are implementing organic farming, regulating intermittent irrigation systems (dry and wet), using low-emission rice varieties, and utilizing soil improvement materials such as biochar.

For successful plant breeding in any crop species, the importance of diversity in the available germplasm population is known and established. Thirty-two common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) genotypes from the IRAD gene bank in Cameroon were evaluated for divergence in terms of their morpho-agronomic traits, fungal disease resistance, and bacterial disease resistance to assess the opportunity for genetic improvement of the crop. The trait associations were estimated using correlation coefficients and genotypes were classified into groups using cluster and principal component analyses. Seven qualitative and 16 quantitative traits comprising growth, phenological, yield, and disease variables were evaluated in this study. The qualitative markers revealed the degree of polymorphism among the 32 common bean genotypes. The number of phenotypic classes per character (Na) ranged from 2 to 18, with an average of 5.14. The expected gene diversity (He) ranged from 0.37 to 0.93 (mean = 0.56). The number of effective phenotypic classes (Ne) ranged from 1.82 to 14.22, with a mean of 3.85. An extensive range of variation was evident for the majority of traits, highlighting their utility for characterizing common bean germplasm. Many qualitative traits, including seed coat color, seed shape, and seed size, and also some quantitative traits of economic importance including seed yield, were found to be highly variable within the collection, with the MAC55 genotype displaying the highest yield (32.65 g per plant). Four genotypes, namely MAC55, BOA-5-1M6, FEB 192, and Banguem showed resistance to the two main common bean diseases, angular leaf spot and common blight. We detected highly significant correlations among several traits related to yield. A high broad-sense heritability was found for most of the quantitative traits. We carried out two-dimensional principal component analysis and used hierarchical clustering to group the analyzed germplasm according to their phenotypic similitudes. The evidence of agro-morphological diversity in the present collection and the identification of discriminant characters between the available germplasm through the use of PCA analysis have significant implications for establishing breeding schemes in common bean.

Ammoniacal thiosulfate has been used lately as an alternative lixiviant for leaching gold from sulfides ores which are not amenable for cyanidation. However, the oxidation of the sulfide minerals generates products that inhibit the dissolution of gold and can promote the degradation of the leaching solution. The complexity of the ammoniacal thiosulfate leaching system has prevented the unification and clarification of the mechanisms of oxidation of sulfide ores used for gold extraction.In this study, a method combining polarization curves, Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and in situ Raman spectroscopy was implemented to investigate the oxidation process of high-purity pyrite. Pyrite samples were dispersed in carbon paste electrode (CPE-Py). The polarization curves of CPE-Py exhibited an increase in current values for overpotentials greater than 0.1 V, indicating the initiation of mineral oxidation processes. Subsequently, a maximum current was observed initially, followed by subsequent decrease, indicating the occurrence of passivation processes on the electrode surface. Hydrodynamic polarization curves demonstrated that the overpotential at which the passivation process occurs is independent of mass transport, suggesting that the passivation products were formed through solid-state transformation.Impedance spectra revealed that at overpotentials below 0.1 V, a partially resolved capacitive semicircle was observed, which was associated with the resistance encountered when charge was transferred between the solution and the surface layer interface. This resistance decreased as the polarization overpotential increased, implying a decrease in charge transfer kinetics. At higher overpotentials (0.3 V–0.4 V), a second capacitive semicircle appeared, linked to the oxidation of one or several species present in the mineral.In situ Raman spectroscopy was utilized to identify the oxidation species of pyrite in ammonia-thiosulfate ((NH4)2S2O3) leaching solution at a pH = 10.2. The composition of the species varied depending on the applied anodic potential. At low anodic potentials (0.1 V), Fe(OH)2 and thiosulfate (S2O32−) were formed, while at high anodic potentials (0.4 V), iron products such as Fe3O4 and γ-FeOOH, as well as sulfide species including thiosulfate, tetrathionates and sulfates (S2O32−, S4O6−2 and SO42−) were formed.

The development of science and technology has positively impacted human life, which has now reached the age of electric voice commands. An intelligent home management system allows humans to operate their house's electrical gadgets, such as lighting, using simple voice commands, eliminating the need to move around to switch on or off equipment. When users of indoor lighting use sound waves to operate the system or turn on the lights, the sound sensor sends an input signal to the microcontroller, which is then processed with the microcontroller's output in the form of a voltage to turn on the load. The system will function when the FC-04 sound sensor receives sound input (sound code). The FC-04 sound sensor can only provide a digital output signal with a value of 1 and 0 in the form of a clap, which is then accumulated on Arduino with a value above 400 million by the program uploaded to be used as a 5-volt output to turn on/off the lights. This is because when turning on the lights from a certain distance, several factors can affect it, including setting the sound sensor's sensitivity and noise levels in the surrounding area.

The temperature of the Indonesian Low-Speed Tunnel (ILST) wind tunnel test section was measured using a Pt100-type Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) sensor. With the upgrade of the Indonesian Low-Speed Tunnel - Data Acquisition and Reduction System (ILST-DARS) using Ethernet communication, an integrated RTD linearization circuit was designed with the Conditioning Unit (CU) Mk3 to replace the Newport 267B 16-bit parallel and DAS-Hub as the current RTD interface. In this research, the design of the signal conditioner uses the RTD_Linearization_v7.xls program from Texas Instruments, the LTspice simulator software, and the AMP01E precision instrumentation amplifier. Based on the calibration results in the range of 20 – 50 0C, this signal conditioner has an average deviation value of 0.38 0C (1.31%). In the wind tunnel speed variation testing with a range of 30 – 65 m/s, the RTD signal conditioner had an average deviation of 0.41 K (0.14%). The Repeatability Test procedure was carried out at a wind speed of 65 m/s with an angle of attack for the test model from -90 to 200 and data were collected 10 times at each angle. The average deviation of temperature against variations in the angle of attack of the test model in this procedure is 0.25 K (0.08%) and the average deviation of wind speed against variations in the angle of attack of the test model is 0.03 m/s (0.04%).

Uncaria guianensis (Aublet) J.F. Gmel y U. tomentosa (Willd. Ex Roemer & Schultes) DC., ambas especies conocidas popularmente como uña de gato, son reconocidas por su uso en la medicina tradicional y por su potencial comercial en la industria farmacéutica. El creciente interés por la comercialización especialmente de U. tomentosa ha llevado a una extracción intensiva principalmente en bosques primarios sin tener en cuenta aspectos de sustentabilidad. A pesar de su importancia en el mercado internacional, son pocas las experiencias que se conocen sobre el manejo agroecológico de estas especies, y en países como Perú y Costa Rica se ha investigado exclusivamente U. tomentosa. A través del análisis participativo del manejo agroecológico de la uña de gato, se encontró que las comunidades tikuna conocen las características morfológicas de las especies, las zonas de crecimiento, la regeneración natural, el control de malezas y los métodos de extracción de la corteza. No obstante, tienen deficiencias técnicas para la implementación de prácticas como el inventario de las especies, la multiplicación del material vegetal, las asociaciones agroforestales y el procesamiento de la corteza. La estructuración de la red de valores permitió identificar tanto los actores sociales como las actividades requeridas para llevar a cabo las iniciativas productivas, las cuales se pueden integrar a las actividades turísticas y artesanales, propias de estas comunidades. Se espera que este estudio aporte información adicional que conduzca al aprovechamiento de las especies de Uncaria, así como a la autonomía y manejo sustentable de las poblaciones indígenas amazónicas.

Abstract Background Current diagnosis tools for prostate cancer (PCa) such as serum PSA detection and prostate biopsy cannot distinguish dormant tumors from invasive malignancies, either be used as prognosis marker for castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), the lethal stage of PCa patients. Exosomes have been widely investigated as promising biomarkers for various diseases. We aim to characterize the proteomic and metabolomic profile of exosomes and to evaluate their potential value for the diagnosis of PCa, especially CRPC. We also investigate the functions of some specific exosome biomarkers in the progression of CRPC. Methods Integrated proteomics and metabolomics analysis were performed for plasma-derived exosomes collected from tumor-free controls (TFC), PCa and CRPC patients. Expression of specific exosomal proteins were further validated by targeted 4D-parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) mass spectrometry among the three cohorts. Tissue distribution and functional role of exosomal protein LRG1 was studied in clinical PCa tissue samples and cell line models. Results Three potential exosomal protein markers were identified. The apolipoprotein E level in PCa samples was 1.7-fold higher than that in TFC (receiver operating characteristic value, 0.74). Similarly, the levels of exosome-derived leucine-rich alpha2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) and inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H3 (ITIH3) in the CRPC group were 1.7 and 2.04 times, respectively, higher than those in the PCa group (ROC values, 0.84 and 0.85, respectively), indicating that LRG1 and ITIH3 could serve as predictive markers for CRPC. For metabolomic evaluation of exosomes, a series of differentially expressed metabolites were identified, and a combined metabolite panel showed ROC value of 0.94 for distinguishing PCa from TFC and 0.97 for distinguishing CRPC from PCa. Immunohistochemistry of tissue microarray showed that LRG1 protein was significantly upregulated in advanced prostate cancer and functional assay revealed that ectopic expression of LRG1 can significantly enhance the malignant phenotype of prostate cancer cells. More importantly, PCa cell derived LRG1-overexpressed exosomes remarkably promoted angiogenesis. Conclusion Integration of proteomics and metabolomics data generated proteomic and metabolic signatures of plasma exosomes that may facilitate discrimination of CRPC from PCa and TFC patients, suggesting the potential of exosomal proteins and metabolites as CRPC markers. The study also confirmed the important role of exosomal protein LRG1 in PCa malignant progression.

Cameroon introduced the malaria vaccine in its routine immunization program on 22 January 2024 in the 42 districts out of 200 that are among the most at risk of malaria. A cross-sectional analysis of the data on key vaccine events in the introduction roadmap and the vaccine uptake during the first 30 days was conducted. In addition to available gray literature related to the introduction of the malaria vaccine, data on the malaria vaccine uptake by vaccination session, collected through a digital platform, were analyzed. A total of 1893 reports were received from 22 January 2024 to 21 February 2024 from 766 health facilities (84% of overall completeness). Two regions out of ten recorded less than 80% completeness. As of 21 February 2024, 13,811 children had received the first dose of the malaria vaccine, including 7124 girls (51.6%) and 6687 boys (48.4%). In total, 36% of the children were vaccinated through outreach sessions, while 61.5% were vaccinated through sessions in fixed posts. The overall monthly immunization coverage with the first dose was 37%. Early results have shown positive attitudes towards and acceptance of malaria vaccines. Suboptimal completeness of data reporting and a low coverage highlight persistent gaps and challenges in the vaccine rollout.

Penelitian ini adalah penelitian eksperimen yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui apakah terdapat pengaruh model Problem Based Learning terhadap kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa pada pembelajaran matematika di kelas VIII SMP Negeri 1 Bonepantai. Hipotesis dalam penelitian ini adalah terdapat pengaruh model Problem Based Learning terhadap kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa pada pembelajaran matematika di kelas VIII SMP Negeri 1 Bonepantai. Populasi dalam penelitian ini yaitu siswa kelas VIII SMP Negeri 1 Bonepantai. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan dengan Teknik simple random sampling dan diperoleh kelas VIII’3 sebagai kelas yang di belajarkan dengan menggunakan model Problem Based Learning (kelas eksperimen) yang terdiri dari 23 siswa dan kelas VIII’2 sebagai kelas yang dibelajarkan dengan menggunakan model Pembelajaran Langsung (kelas kontrol) yang terdiri dari 24 siswa. Desain yang digunakan dalam penelitian dalam penelitian ini yaitu pretest-posttest control group design dan Teknik pengumpulan datanya yaitu pemberian tes kemampuan berpikir kritis yang berbentuk essay. Analisis inferensial dalam penelitian ini adalah Uji Anakova. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwasanya terdapat pengaruh model Problem Based Learning terhadap kemampuan berpikir kritis siswa, dimana kemampuan berpikir kritis matematis siswa yang dibelajarkan dengan model Problem Based Learning lebih tinggi daripada siswa yang dibelajarkan dengan model pembelajaran langsung pada materi peluang di kelas VIII SMP Negeri 1 Bonepantai.

Abstract Background Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) based on the detection of the Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (HRP2) antigen are widely used for detection of active infection with this parasite and are the only practical malaria diagnostic test in some endemic settings. External validation of RDT results from field surveys can confirm appropriate RDT performance. Methods A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between July and November 2017 enrolling participants of all ages in households from 15 villages in four border regions of Tanzania: Geita, Kigoma, Mtwara and Ruvuma. All participants had an RDT performed in the field and provided a blood sample for later laboratory multiplex antigen detection of HRP2. In assessing the continuous HRP2 levels in participant blood versus RDT result, dose–response logistic regression provided quantitative estimates for HRP2 limit of detection (LOD). Results From the 15 study villages, 6941 persons were enrolled that had a RDT at time of enrollment and provided a DBS for later laboratory antigen detection. RDT positive prevalence for the HRP2 band by village ranged from 20.0 to 43.6%, but the magnitude of this prevalence did not have an effect on the estimated LOD of RDTs utilized in different villages. Overall, HRP2 single-target tests had a lower LOD at the 95% probability of positive RDT (4.3 ng/mL; 95% CI 3.4–5.4) when compared to pLDH/HRP2 dual target tests (5.4 ng/mL; 4.5–6.3), though this difference was not significant. With the exception of one village, all other 14 villages (93.3%) showed RDT LOD estimates at 90% probability of positive RDT between 0.5 and 12.0 ng/mL. Conclusions Both HRP2-only and pLDH/HRP2 combo RDTs utilized in a 2017 Tanzania cross-sectional survey of border regions generally performed well, and reliably detected HRP2 antigen in the low ng/mL range. Though single target tests had lower levels of HRP2 detection, both tests were within similar ranges among the 15 villages. Comparison of quantitative HRP2 detection limits among study sites can help interpret RDT testing results when generating population prevalence estimates for malaria infection.

The use of blockchain has received great attention in its adoption as a financial instrument in cryptocurrencies. This phenomenon needs to be considered in the sense not only as a form of financial transactions but also in other fields such as health, which is also a challenge for modern society. In addition, several government policies have also supported the provision of health services as a form of improving people’s living standards in the form of insurance. In this study, we try to design the system by using UML diagram and simulate the use of DApps offered by the Vexanium Ecosystem. For example, three basic activities between patients, doctors, and insurance will be simulated in the form of the transaction ledger. This method allows us to speed up the authentication process that previously needed to be performed for a long time with bureaucracy becoming the rule in smart contracts in a matter of minutes. The evaluation of this method will then be compared with eight existing blockchain projects. The result in healthcare processes is cost savings through increased automation, speed, standardization, and efficiency. All of this can be a preliminary analysis of its application in Indonesia, particularly related to the authentication and recording of medical records.

Southeast Asia is one of the world’s regions most vulnerable to climate change impacts with low-lying land, more severe floods and droughts, larger populations, higher dependency on agriculture for the economic sector, and low resilience of communities. Therefore, a study on how future climate change will affect this region has been conducted, and the results are provided in this paper. Projected surface temperatures and total precipitation from the baseline period of 2013 up to 2100 for Southeast Asia were investigated using the Global Climate Model (GCM) and the Weather Research Forecast (WRF) v3.9.1.1 modelling systems under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 future climate scenarios. The results showed that future temperatures were projected to increase under both climate scenarios RCP4.5 and RCP8.5; however, precipitation was projected to decrease. The temperature was projected to increase by 0.93C and 2.50C under RCP4.5 and 8.5. Meanwhile, precipitation greatly varied under the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 climate scenarios in both monsoonal seasons. We conclude that the change in climate variables, particularly the temperature and precipitation, could potentially increase the vulnerability of this region.

Abstract Background Approximately 45% of all under-five child deaths are among newborn infants, babies in their first 28 days of life, or the neonatal period every year in the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa Region. To facilitate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.2, innovative interventions are needed to address this challenge. Thus, this scoping review aims to map research evidence on perinatal asphyxia among neonates in the WHO Africa Region. Methods This scoping review will be guided by the Arksey and O’Malley framework, Levac et al. recommendations, and the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for scoping reviews. Relevant published literature will be searched using a combination of keywords, Boolean terms, and Medical Subject Headings in the following databases: PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, and Web of Science from January 2016 onwards. We will further search the World Health Organization and government websites, as well as the reference list of included studies for potentially eligible studies. This scoping review will include research evidence involving countries in the WHO Africa Region, with a focus on the burden of perinatal asphyxia, contributory/associated factors of perinatal asphyxia, clinical interventions for perinatal asphyxia, and interventions/strategies for the prevention of perinatal asphyxia in the SDGs era. Two reviewers will independently sort the studies to include and exclude, guided by the eligibility criteria. Also, the data from the included studies will be extracted and any discrepancies resolved using a third reviewer. Thematic analysis will be conducted, and the findings reported using both qualitative tables and figures. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) will be followed to report this study’s results. Quality appraisal of the included studies will be done utilising the mixed methods appraisal tool version 2018. Conclusion This scoping review results may reveal research evidence gaps to inform future primary studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses; and possibly contribute towards the realisation of the SDG 3.2 by countries in the WHO Africa Region. The finding of this review will be disseminated using multiple channels such as workshops, peer review publications, conferences, and social media.

Abstract Carbonation curing differs from weathering carbonation since it is performed intentionally at the early ages of cement hydration. This cure involves applying different levels of CO2 (5% to 99%) to concrete for a short period of time, usually followed by conventional hydration. The objective of this article was to evaluate the carbonation curing in metakaolin-based geopolymer concretes, activated with NaOH and Na2SiO3, and compare them with Portland cement (PC) concrete. The following tests were applied: determination of pH, carbonation depth, water absorption by immersion, void index, and compressive strength. The results showed that after the carbonation curing, the geopolymer concrete had compressive strength and carbonation depth equivalent to the concrete with PC, but with a lower absorbed CO2 content. Although this type of cement absorbs less CO2 but is more sensitive to carbonation. The effect on the void ratio was not remarkable. Furthermore, the alkalinity of concretes can be partially recovered after subsequent curing by water immersion.

3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) provides many advantages for construction industry especially on productivity, waste, labor, and environment. Many researches have been conducted on the material development for 3DCP. However, there are not many researches which study the structural behavior of 3DCP. This experimental research aims to analyze flexural and shear behavior of 3D printed reinforced concrete beams. Five longitudinal reinforcement ratios were used to analyze crack patterns, failure mode, ductility, and capacity of those beams. The experimental results were then compared with analytical results by using ACI design code. The results show that higher longitudinal reinforcement ratio yields higher flexural and shear capacity of 3DCP beams. Due to layer-by-layer printing process, 3DCP beams are prone to local failure of filaments. Placement of longitudinal reinforcement might initiate macroscopic voids which could cause slippage and sudden drop on the capacity. Furthermore, ACI code underestimates the capacity of 3DCP beams failing in shear by some margins.

Streck tubes are commonly used to collect blood samples to preserve cell-free circulating DNA. They contain imidazolidinyl urea as a formaldehyde-releasing agent to stabilize cells. We investigated whether the released formaldehyde leads to crosslinking of intracellular proteins. Therefore, we employed a shotgun proteomics experiment on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) that were isolated from blood collected in Streck tubes, EDTA tubes, EDTA tubes containing formaldehyde, or EDTA tubes containing allantoin. The identified crosslinks were validated in parallel reaction monitoring LC/MS experiments. In total, we identified and validated 45 formaldehyde crosslinks in PBMCs from Streck tubes, which were also found in PBMCs from formaldehyde-treated blood, but not in EDTA- or allantoin-treated samples. Most were derived from cytoskeletal proteins and histones, indicating the ability of Streck tubes to fix cells. In addition, we confirm a previous observation that formaldehyde crosslinking of proteins induces a +24 Da mass shift more frequently than a +12 Da shift. The crosslinking capacity of Streck tubes needs to be considered when selecting blood-collection tubes for mass-spectrometry-based proteomics or metabolomic experiments.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji pemberian campuran tepung kunyit dengan berbagai level tepung kacang tanah terhadap performa produksi ayam KUB. Penelitian ini menggunakan 60 ekor ayam dengan 4 kelompok perlakuan yaitu: P0 (kontrol), P1 0,15% tepung kunyit (TK) dan 5% tepung kacang tanah (TKT) , P2 0,15% TK dan 10% TKT, P3 0,15% TK dan 15% TK. Setiap perlakuan mendapat lima ulangan dan setiap ulangan terdiri dari 3 ekor ayam., pakan perlakuan diberikan selama delapan minggu. Variabel yang diuji adalah konsumsi pakan, pertambahan bobot badan (PBB) dan konversi pakan. Data dianalisis menggunakan one way anova dan jika terdapat perbedaan antar perlakuan, maka dilakukan uji lanjut menggunakan Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penggunakan kombinasi TK dan TKT berpengaruh nyata (P0.05) dapat disimpulkan bahwa perlakuan dengan pemberian 15% TKT memberikkan respon terbaik.

Abstract Background Accumulating evidence supports that prostate cancer stem-like cells (PCSCs) play significant roles in therapy resistance and metastasis of prostate cancer. Many studies also show that nitric oxide (NO) synthesized by NO synthases can function to promote tumor progression. However, the exact roles of NOSs and NO signaling in the growth regulation of PCSCs and castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) are still not fully understood. Methods The regulatory functions of NOS-NO signaling were evaluated in prostate cancer cells, especially in PCSCs enriched by 3D spheroid culture and CD133/CD44 cell sorting. The molecular mechanisms of NOS-NO signaling in PCSCs growth regulation and tumor metastasis were investigated in PCSCs and mice orthotopic prostate tumor model. Results Endothelial NOS (eNOS) exhibited a significant upregulation in high-grade prostate cancer and metastatic CRPC. Xenograft models of CRPC exhibited notable increased eNOS expression and higher intracellular NO levels. PCSCs isolated from various models displayed significant enhanced eNOS-NO signaling. Functional analyses demonstrated that increased eNOS expression could promote in vivo tumorigenicity and metastatic potential of prostate cancer cells. Characterization of eNOS-NO involved downstream pathway which confirmed that enhanced eNOS signaling could promote the growth of PCSCs and antiandrogen-resistant prostate cancer cells via an activated downstream NO-sGC-cGMP-PKG effector signaling pathway. Interestingly, eNOS expression could be co-targeted by nuclear receptor ERRα and transcription factor ERG in prostate cancer cells and PCSCs. Conclusions Enhanced eNOS-NO signaling could function to promote the growth of PCSCs and also the development of metastatic CRPC. Besides eNOS-NO as potential targets, targeting its upstream regulators (ERRα and ERG) of eNOS-NO signaling could also be the therapeutic strategy for the management of advanced prostate cancer, particularly the aggressive cancer carrying with the TMPRSS2:ERG fusion gene.

Abstract Background Breast cancer is a fatal disease and a major reason of cancer associated death in females. Many factors along with miRNA are responsible for the development and the progression of the disease. The miRNA plays a very crucial role in the regulation of the genes. MicroRNAs are of three major types—oncomiRs, tumor suppressive miRNAs, and metastamiRs. Main body MicoRNA-10b is a prometastatic microRNA targeting various genes that facilitates multiple outcomes such as metastasis, increased capacity for invasion, proliferation and migration, increased epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, angiogenesis, and therefore exhibits worse clinical outcomes. It is found to be upregulated in various malignancies and is thus to be considered as the possible therapeutic candidate. Conclusion The therapeutic delivery of miR-10b antagonists (antagomiRs) and/or knockdown of miRNA is beneficial in reducing tumor growth. Additionally, combination therapy which includes antisense oligonucleotides using miR-10b can function as an effective approach to tumor regression and drug resistance reversal. Graphical abstract

This research aims to design electrical installations in residential homes that apply Internet of Things (IoT) technology. An Arduino Uno mini system is the controller whose interface uses the HC-05 Bluetooth module. At the same time, the control uses a cellphone with the Android operating system. The design is based on a research development model, but it is not fully standardized by development research because there are some limitations to the problem. The focus is only on tool design, namely planning, manufacturing, and testing the resulting tool or device. The design results obtained an electrical installation control device with an Android phone. The device is capable of connecting and disconnecting load points remotely and automatically. The control distance is approximately 20 meters according to the Bluetooth specifications used.

Urea fertilizers in agricultural operations usually tend to produce large amounts of ammonia due to hydrolysis, therefore contribute to the air pollution. The purpose of this study was to study the potential black liquor from pulp industry as urease inhibitor. Characterization of the black liquor was carried out by Spectrophotometer Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) and Thermal Gravimetric Analyzer (TGA) instruments. Meanwhile, the determination of ammonia levels was carried out using UV-spectrophotometer. The black liquor used in this process contains OH stretching, C=O stretching, an aromatic ring vibration, ring vibration, and guaiacil ring vibration indicating the presence of lignin. TGA primary weight loss in black liquor occurs above 200°C. The addition of urease enzymes to urea tends to increase the release of ammonia. Meanwhile, the results showed that black liquor could prevent the nitrogen loss of urea.

Interleukin 17 (IL-17)-producing helper T cells (Th17) and IL-17 play an important role in the defense against extracellular bacteria and fungi; however, persistent secretion of IL-17 is also an important component in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Recent evidence suggests that Th17 cells and IL-17 are also involved in the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19. This review summarizes the evidence related with the role of Th17/IL-17 in severe COVID-19, which support the possible use of IL-17/IL-17R inhibitors in the treatment of this infection.

Abstract Background More and more studies have shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a critical regulatory role in many cancers. However, the potential molecular mechanism of circRNAs in prostate cancer (PCa) remains largely unknown. Methods Differentially expressed circRNAs were identified by RNA sequencing. The expression of hsa_circ_0003258 was evaluated using quantitative real-time PCR and RNA in situ hybridization. The impacts of hsa_circ_0003258 on the metastasis of PCa cells were investigated by a series of in vitro and in vivo assays. Lastly, the underlying mechanism of hsa_circ_0003258 was revealed by Western blot, biotin-labeled RNA pulldown, RNA immunoprecipitation, luciferase assays and rescue experiments. Results Increased expression of hsa_circ_0003258 was found in PCa tissues and was associated with advanced TNM stage and ISUP grade. Overexpression of hsa_circ_0003258 promoted PCa cell migration by inducing epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) in vitro as well as tumor metastasis in vivo, while knockdown of hsa_circ_0003258 exerts the opposite effect. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0003258 could elevate the expression of Rho GTPase activating protein 5 (ARHGAP5) via sponging miR-653-5p. In addition, hsa_circ_0003258 physically binds to insulin like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 3 (IGF2BP3) in the cytoplasm and enhanced HDAC4 mRNA stability, in which it activates ERK signalling pathway, then triggers EMT programming and finally accelerates the metastasis of PCa. Conclusions Upregulation of hsa_circ_0003258 drives tumor progression through both hsa_circ_0003258/miR-653-5p/ARHGAP5 axis and hsa_circ_0003258/IGF2BP3 /HDAC4 axis. Hsa_circ_0003258 may act as a promising biomarker for metastasis of PCa and an attractive target for PCa intervention.

The Duffy protein, a transmembrane molecule, functions as a receptor for various chemokines and facilitates attachment between the reticulocyte and the Plasmodium Duffy antigen-binding protein. Duffy expression correlates with the Duffy receptor gene for the chemokine, located on chromosome 1, and exhibits geographical variability worldwide. Traditionally, researchers have described the Duffy negative genotype as a protective factor against Plasmodium vivax infection. However, recent studies suggest that this microorganism’s evolution could potentially diminish this protective effect. Nevertheless, there is currently insufficient global data to demonstrate this phenomenon. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the Duffy genotype/phenotype and the prevalence of P. vivax infection. The protocol for the systematic review was registered in PROSPERO as CRD42022353427 and involved reviewing published studies from 2012 to 2022. The Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SciELO databases were consulted. Assessments of study quality were conducted using the STROBE and GRADE tools. A total of 34 studies were included, with Africa accounting for the majority of recorded studies. The results varied significantly regarding the relationship between the Duffy genotype/phenotype and P. vivax invasion. Some studies predominantly featured the negative Duffy genotype yet reported no malaria cases. Other studies identified minor percentages of infections. Conversely, certain studies observed a higher prevalence (99%) of Duffy-negative individuals infected with P. vivax. In conclusion, this systematic review found that the homozygous Duffy genotype positive for the A allele (FY*A/*A) is associated with a higher incidence of P. vivax infection. Furthermore, the negative Duffy genotype does not confer protection against vivax malaria.

Research on the acquisition of suprasegmental sounds in Japanese has been carried out both in terms of production and perception. The conducted research shows that there are difficulties in acquiring Japanese sounds. This study focused on the perception of Japanese accents, with the aim of describing the learner’s ability to identify Japanese accent patterns. The data sources of this research are Japanese learners at beginner level. Data were collected using a test instrument, through a hearing test, in the form of a set of words which selected based on the category of words and patterns of Japanese accents to be measured by listening and recording techniques. The results showed that based on the results of the hearing test, of the 17 participants who completed the test reached the highest score 47.14 (S01), and the lowest score of 15.41 (S14), with an overall average score of 29.16 and Standard Deviation (SD) 7.9018. These scores represent the participants’ ability to identify Japanese accent patterns is in the very low category. The results indicate that the learners have difficulty identifying Japanese accent patterns. In fact, the vocabulary in research instrument was the basic vocabulary that had been learned by them. It can be concluded that the acquisition of vocabulary is not in line with the suprasegmental elements attached to these words. The results of this research need to be continued by applying listening exercises of Japanese accent.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to bring out the possibility of selecting good leaders in Asian countries, i.e., China and Singapore. Design/methodology/approach – Since comparative historical analysis enhances the objectivity for academic discussion, Deng Xiaoping’s and Lee Kuan Yew’s leadership successions have been chosen as the cases for studies by virtue of “method of agreement”. Incorporating “argument based on the contrary” into the context for macro-historical analysis, this paper characterises the duo’s successful (at least quite successful) leadership successions, thus offering an alternative paradigm beyond Western-style democracy. Findings – Both cases of post-Mao China and the independent Singapore indicate that in quite a number of Asian countries, good leaders could still be selected beyond universal suffrage as practised among Western Electoral Democracies, mainly because of the elites-driven context. As to the duo’s succession results, Deng Xiaoping’s selection of leaders was somewhat successful, while Lee Kuan Yew’s was phenomenal. Originality – This paper offers readers a glance over the possibility of selecting good leaders in Asian countries not fully based on Western-style democracy. Learning from the duo’s leadership successions, the West may treat elite politics as the supplement under Western Electoral Democracies in order to avoid their countries falling into the trap of populism. The West could meanwhile consider the exceptional criteria prized by the duo for leadership successions. Considering such interactions among elites in the real-life context, it could serve as an alternative model to Western-style democracy.

Abstract Background Efficient transfer of chemical signals is important for successful mating in many animal species. Multiple evolutionary lineages of animals evolved direct sex pheromone transmission during traumatic mating—the wounding of the partner with specialized devices—which helps to avoid signal loss to the environment. Although such direct transmission modes of so-called allohormone pheromones are well-documented in invertebrates, they are considered rare in vertebrates. Males of several species of the frog genus Plectrohyla (Hylidae, Anura) have elongated teeth and develop swollen lips during the breeding season. Here we investigated the possibility that these structures are used to scratch the females’ skin and apply allohormone pheromones during traumatic mating in several Plectrohyla species. Results Our behavioural observations revealed that males press their upper jaw onto the females’ dorsum during amplexus, leaving small skin scratches with their teeth. Histological examinations of the males’ lips identified specialized mucus glands, resembling known amphibian pheromone glands. Whole-transcriptome sequencing of these breeding glands showed high expression of sodefrin precursor-like factor (SPF) proteins, which are known to have a pheromone function in multiple amphibian species. Conclusions Our study suggests SPF delivery via traumatic mating in several anuran species: the males have specialized breeding glands in the lips for production and secretion and use their elongated teeth as wounding devices for application. We hypothesize that these SPF proteins end up in the females’ circulatory system, where understanding their exact function will require further molecular, physiological and behavioural testing.

Abstract Background Chemical communication is an important aspect of the behavioural ecology of a wide range of mammals. In dogs and other carnivores, anal sac glands are thought to convey information to conspecifics by secreting a pallet of small volatile molecules produced by symbiotic bacteria. Because these glands are unique to carnivores, it is unclear how their secretions relate to those of other placental mammals that make use of different tissues and secretions for chemical communication. Here we analyse the anal sac glands of domestic dogs to verify the secretion of proteins and infer their evolutionary relationship to those involved in the chemical communication of non-carnivoran mammals. Results Proteomic analysis of anal sac gland secretions of 17 dogs revealed the consistently abundant presence of three related proteins. Homology searches against online databases indicate that these proteins are evolutionary related to ‘odorant binding proteins’ (OBPs) found in a wide range of mammalian secretions and known to contribute to chemical communication. Screening of the dog’s genome sequence show that the newly discovered OBPs are encoded by a single cluster of three genes in the pseudoautosomal region of the X-chromosome. Comparative genomic screening indicates that the same locus is shared by a wide range of placental mammals and that it originated at least before the radiation of extant placental orders. Phylogenetic analyses suggest a dynamic evolution of gene duplication and loss, resulting in large gene clusters in some placental taxa and recurrent loss of this locus in others. The homology of OBPs in canid anal sac glands and those found in other mammalian secretions implies that these proteins maintained a function in chemical communication throughout mammalian evolutionary history by multiple shifts in expression between secretory tissues involved in signal release and nasal mucosa involved in signal reception. Conclusions Our study elucidates a poorly understood part of the biology of a species that lives in close association with humans. In addition, it shows that the protein repertoire underlying chemical communication in mammals is more evolutionarily stable than the variation of involved glands and tissues would suggest.

BackgroundProstate cancer (PCa) is among the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Ferroptosis refers to an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death and is involved in prostate tumorigenesis. A few ferroptosis-related gene signatures have been developed to predict the prognosis for PCa patients. However, previous signatures were typically established based on biochemical recurrence-free survival, which has proven not to be a good surrogate for overall survival (OS). This study aimed to construct a novel ferroptosis-related gene prognostic index (FRGPI) to predict disease-free survival (DFS) and response to immunotherapy for PCa patients after radical prostatectomy.MethodsGene expression and clinicopathological data on PCa patients were obtained from the TCGA database. Ferroptosis-related hub genes associated with DFS of PCa patients were identified by an in-depth bioinformatics analysis using a novel and comprehensive algorithm based on functional enrichment, consensus clustering, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction. The FRGPI was established on the basis of the genes selected using multivariate cox regression analysis and further validated in two additional PCa cohorts. Next, the clinicopathological, molecular, and immune profiles were characterized and compared between FRGPI-high and FRGPI-low subgroups. Finally, the predictive role of the FRGPI in response to immunotherapy was estimated using a metastatic urothelial cancer cohort treated with an anti-PD-L1 agent.ResultsThe FRGPI was constructed based on four genes (E2F1, CDC20, TYMS, and NUP85), and FRGPI-high patients had worse DFS than FRGPI-low patients. Multivariate cox regression analysis revealed that FRGPI could act as an independent prognostic factor for PCa patients after radical prostatectomy. A prognostic nomogram comprising the FRGPI and other clinicopathological parameters was established to predict the DFS for PCa patients quantitatively. In addition, comprehensive results demonstrated that high FRGPI scores showed a significantly positive correlation with worse clinicopathological features, higher mutation counts, increased frequency of copy number variations (CNVs), higher homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and immune scores, higher mRNAsi, and more importantly, enhanced sensitivity to immunotherapy.ConclusionsFRGPI is not only a promising and robust prognostic biomarker, but also a potential indicator of immunotherapeutic outcomes for PCa patients after radical prostatectomy.

In this work, a novel electrically reconfigurable phase shifter based on a half-mode substrate integrated waveguide (HM-SIW) is proposed. SIW is a guided transmission line topology, and by using half-mode excitation, a smaller size can be achieved. Phase shifters are electronic devices that change the phase of transmission for a wide range of applications, including inverse scattering and sensing. The tunability of PIN diodes is applied here to achieve a reconfigurable design. The proposed single-layer structure does not require extra wiring layers for the bias circuit on the suggested printed circuit board. Its principle consists in the integration, in the HM-SIW, of three parallel lines, each connecting the edge of the HM-SIW and linked to a PIN diode and a radial stub. Here we present the results of measurements for a frequency band from 4.5 to 7 GHz that demonstrate how the experiment agrees with simulations. Insertion loss was less than −10 dB, and port coupling was less than −2 dB for both simulation and measurement solutions. The proposed half-mode structure is around half the size of a typical SIW line. With the proposed design, the seven states of the PIN diodes can be validated (ON and OFF), with a wide band adaptation and a relatively constant phase difference across a broad frequency range (44%). A key benefit of the proposed design for a microwave component is the reduction of extra biasing layers for the PIN diodes. This is in addition to the reduced size of the transmission line compared to a commercial SIW. In the annexed section, simulation software is used for a more comprehensive analysis involving more phase shift values and parametric studies.

Introducción. En mamíferos, el control de la temperatura corporal es vital. El estado de consciencia y control motor en humanos, ocurren a una temperatura de 37°C y las desviaciones pueden alterar las propiedades celulares, generando disfunciones fisiológicas. En especies como los roedores (su relación área de superficie/volumen facilita la pérdida de calor) mantienen temperaturas basales cercanas a los 30°C. Distinto es con animales como los paquidermos, cuya temperatura es menor comparada con los humanos. El objetivo es identificar los aspectos fisiológicos de la termorregulación. Descripción de temas tratados. Revisión descriptiva de la literatura de artículos publicados en diferentes bases de datos. La termorregulación es la capacidad del cuerpo para establecer y mantener su temperatura, regulando producción y pérdida de calor para optimizar la eficiencia de procesos metabólicos. El protagonismo lo tiene el sistema nervioso central y su control neurohormonal en múltiples niveles. El centro regulador térmico está en el hipotálamo anterior. Este recibe información de los receptores de grandes vasos, vísceras abdominales, médula espinal y de la sangre que perfunde el hipotálamo. Cuando aumenta la temperatura central, el termorregulador activa fibras eferentes del sistema nervioso autónomo, provocando pérdida de calor por convección y evaporación. Ante el descenso de temperatura, la respuesta es disminuir la pérdida de calor (vasoconstricción y menor sudoración); además, incrementar la producción de calor, intensificando la actividad muscular. Conclusión. La termorregulación es liderada por el hipotálamo, quien regula aumento y disminución de la temperatura respondiendo a las necesidades del organismo para llegar a la homeostasis y compensación, enfrentando las alteraciones de la temperatura ambiental. Introduction. In mammals, controlling body temperature is vital. Consciousness and motor control in humans occur at a temperature of 37°C and any deviation can alter the cellular properties, generating physiological dysfunctions. In species such as rodents (their surface area/volume ratio facilitates heat loss) they maintain basal temperatures close to 30°C. This is different with animals such as pachyderms, whose temperature is lower compared to humans. This article aims to Identify the physiological aspects of thermoregulation. Topics. Descriptive literature review of articles published in different databases. Thermoregulation is the body’s ability to establish and maintain its temperature, regulating heat production and loss to optimize the efficiency of metabolic processes. The main actor in this process is the central nervous system and its neuro-hormonal control on multiple levels. The thermal regulating center is located in the anterior hypothalamus. It receives information from the receptors of large vessels, abdominal viscera, spinal cord and the blood that perfuses the hypothalamus. When the core temperature increases, the thermoregulator activates efferent fibers of the autonomic nervous system, causing heat loss by convection and evaporation. When the temperature drops, the response is to decrease heat loss (vasoconstriction and less sweating); in addition, increase heat production by intensifying muscle activity. Conclusion. Thermoregulation is led by the hypothalamus, which regulates temperature increase and decrease by responding to the organism’s need to reach homeostasis and compensation, facing the alterations of the ambient temperature. Introdução. Nos mamíferos, o controle da temperatura corporal é vital. O estado de consciencia e controle motor em humanos ocorre a uma temperatura de 37 °C e os desvios podem alterar as propriedades celulares, gerando disfunções fisiológicas. Espécies como os roedores (a sua relação superfície/volume, facilita a perda de calor), mantêm a temperatura basal próxima de 30 °C. É diferente em animais como paquidermes, cuja temperatura é mais baixa em comparação aos humanos. Objetivo. Identificar os aspectos fisiológicos da termorregulação. Desenvolvimento. Revisão descritiva da literatura de artigos publicados em diferentes bases de dados. A termorregulação é a capacidade do corpo de estabelecer e manter sua temperatura, regulando a produção e a perda de calor para otimizar a eficiência dos processos metabólicos. O sistema nervoso central tem o papel principal, assim como seu controle neuro-hormonal em múltiplos níveis. O centro de regulação térmica está no hipotálamo anterior, que recebe informações dos receptores de grandes vasos, vísceras abdominais, medula espinhal e do sangue distribuído pelo hipotálamo. Quando a temperatura central aumenta, o termorregulador ativa fibras eferentes do sistema nervoso autônomo, causando perda de calor por convecção e evaporação. Dada a diminuição da temperatura, a resposta é reduzir a perda de calor (vasoconstrição e menos transpiração), além de aumentar a produção de calor, intensificando a atividade muscular. Conclusão. A termorregulação é liderada pelo hipotálamo, que regula o aumento e a diminuição da temperatura, respondendo às necessidades do organismo de atingir a homeostase e a compensação, enfrentando mudanças na temperatura ambiente. Cómo citar: Picón-Jaimes YA, Orozco-Chinome JE, Molina-Franky J, Franky-Rojas MP. Control central de la temperatura corporal y sus alteraciones: fiebre, hipertermia e hipotermia. MedUNAB. 2020;23(1):118-130. doi:10.29375/01237047.3714

Corporate Social Responsibility is a concept known in the business world as a form of company concern for society. Indonesia regulates CSR under the term Social and Environmental Responsibility. CSR or Tanggung Jawab Sosial dan Lingkungan (TJSL) is regulated in Article 74 of Law Number 40 of 2007 concerning Limited Liability Company. This regulation requires every company whose activities are to manage and / or relate to natural resources. Plantation companies are companies whose business activities are to manage natural resources and have an obligation to implement TJSL. However, in implementing TJSL, there are several problems, namely the absence of regulations that clearly regulate the form of activities including TJSL and sanctions for plantation companies that do not implement TJSL which creates legal vacuum and legal uncertainty for companies, government and for the community. This research was conducted with the aim of providing legal certainty and as a guideline for all parties related to the implementation of TJSL and law enforcement. The research method used in this research is a normative juridical research type that analyzes legal issues against the prevailing norms or positive legal rules. This research was conducted using a Statute Approach and a Conceptual Approach. Keywords: Limited Liability Company; legal sanctions; Corporate Social Responsibility. Corporate Social Responsibility merupakan konsep yang dikenal dalam dunia bisnis sebagai bentuk kepedulian perusahaan terhadap masyarakat. Indonesia mengatur CSR dengan istilah Tanggung Jawab Sosial dan Lingkungan. TJSL diatur dalam Pasal 74 Undang-Undang Nomor 40 Tahun 2007 Tentang Perseroan Terbatas. Pengaturan ini mewajibkan setiap perusahaan yang kegiatannya mengelola dan/atau berkaitan dengan sumber daya alam. Perusahaan perkebunan merupakan perusahaan yang kegiatan usahanya mengelola sumber daya alam memiliki kewajiban dalam melaksanakan TJSL. Namun, Perusahaan perkebunan dalam menjalankan TJSL terdapat beberapa permasalahan yaitu belum adanya peraturan yang mengatur secara jelas terkait dengan bentuk kegiatan yang termasuk TJSL dan sanksi bagi perusahaan perkebunan yang tidak melaksanakan TJSL yang menimbulkan kekosongan hukum dan ketidakpastian hukum bagi perusahaan, pemerintah maupun bagi masyarakat. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tujuan untuk memberikan kepastian hukum serta dapat menjadi pedoman bagi seluruh pihak terkait dengan pelaksanaan TJSL dan penegakan hukumnya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah tipe penelitian yuridis normatif yang menganalisa permasalahan hukum terhadap norma atau kaidah hukum posistif yang berlaku. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan Pendekatan Perundang-Undangan dan Pendekatan Konseptual. Kata Kunci: Perseroan Terbatas; Sanksi Hukum; Tanggung Jawab Sosial Perusahaan.

Determining the topology, layout, and size of structural elements is one of the most important aspects in designing steel seismic-resistant structures. Optimization of these parameters is beneficial to find the lightest weight of the structure, thus reducing construction cost. This study compares the performance of three metaheuristic algorithms, namely, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Symbiotic Organisms Search (SOS), and Differential Evolution (DE). Three study cases are used in order to find the lightest structural weight without violating constraints based on SNI 1726:2019, SNI 1729:2020, and SNI 7860:2020. The results of this study show that SOS has better performance than other algorithms.

Abstract Introduction High‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervical spinal cord is important to provide accurate diagnosis and pathological assessment of injuries. MEDIC (Multiple Echo Data Image Combination) sequences have been used in clinical MRI; however, a comparison of the performance of 2D and 3D MEDIC for cervical spinal cord imaging has not been reported. The aim of this study is to compare axial 2D and 3D MEDIC for the visualisation of the grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) of the human cervical spinal cord. Methods Eight healthy participants were scanned using Siemens Prismafit 3T MRI. T2*‐weighted gradient spoiled 2D and 3D MEDIC sequences were acquired at 0.4 × 0.4 × 3.0 and 0.3 × 0.3 × 3.0 mm resolutions, with the acquisition times of 6 and 7 min, respectively. Quantitative analyses of the images were made based on the image signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) and non‐uniformity (NU). Two independent radiologists (CS and FN), each provided Likert scoring assessments of anatomical visibility of the GM and WM structures and image clarity for all samples. Results Quantitative evaluation showed that 3D MEDIC provided higher SNR, higher CNR and lower NU than 2D MEDIC. However, 2D MEDIC provided better anatomical visibility for the GM, WM and CSF, and higher image clarity (lower artefacts) compared to 3D MEDIC. Conclusions 2D MEDIC provides better information for depicting the internal structures of the cervical spinal cord compared to 3D MEDIC.

Objective: To determine Type-2 diabetic patients and its characteristics to determined risk of Erectile dysfunction (ED) and the role of EHS score as more practical tools to screening ED among T2DM patients. Material & Methods: The cross-sectional observational study was carried out at the Internal medicine Unit of Manambai Abdulkadir and Dompu district Hospital, out of 45 patients were included on this study. The data were collected from June 01 – August 01 2017. A structural questioner was used to collect the data and was analyzed using SPSS 2.0. person analysis correlation and logistic regression were used to find the Odds Ratio (OR). Results: We found that 38 out of 45 (84.4%) patients (mean age 57.2 ± 7.1) have Erectile dysfunction, 26 patients uncontrolled diabetes, 5 (11.1%) treated as CHF, 4 (8.9%) CKD, and 7 (15.6%) neuropathy diabetic. There is high correlation between random glucose level and IIEF-5 score (r=0.5, p=0.01). The overall odd ratio of ED in this studies was 4.3 (95% CI: 0.73 to 25.1) for uncontrolled diabetes, 2.5 (95% CI: 0.1 to 51.1) for Treated CHF, 2 (95% CI: 0.01 to 41.6) for CKD, and it was 1.2 (95% CI: 0.1 to 11.5) for neuropathy diabetics. Conclusion: From this study, we found that most diabetic patients have ED, and there is high correlation between random glucose level and simplified IIEF-5 score, EHS performed similar result on diagnoses ED compared to IIEF-5.

El presente ensayo tiene como propósito plantear el diseño de modelo universitario de vinculación laboral, resultante de la reflexión posterior a la investigación positivista desarrollada por el autor, basada en el estudio de cuatro casos institucionales; para esto se analizan los aspectos relevantes acerca de los servicios de empleo en las universidades estatales costarricenses, las condiciones del mercado laboral profesional y los referentes teóricos más importantes, especialmente desde la perspectiva teórico-práctica de la Orientación Laboral. Se estima que esta propuesta de modelo podría tener efectos positivos en el abordaje de las incertidumbres que enfrentan las personas universitarias ante la desmesurada sobreoferta de profesionales, el posible desfasaje con respecto a los requerimientos del mundo del trabajo que presenta indicadores cada vez menos favorables, lo que asegura la insuficiencia de una sola disciplina para investigar e intervenir el fenómeno de inserción laboral, así como la impostergable vinculación entre el sector empleador y la academia universitaria; por ello, podría constituir un insumo valioso para las demás universidades, principalmente de Latinoamérica, debido a la similitud contextual, favoreciendo sus procesos de asesoramiento para la inserción laboral del estudiantado universitario y las personas graduadas, así como los procesos de gestión de la calidad de las carreras.

Este ensayo científico analiza las posibilidades y condiciones de trabajo de las disciplinas de la educación básica, para reconocer el enfrascamiento e incertidumbres en los cuales se desenvuelven debido a los modelos de desarrollo capitalistas y su impacto en la estructura y el funcionamiento de los mercados laborales supeditados a criterios distorsionados de productividad y rendimiento de los mercados laborales. Para ello es importante analizar la contradicción entre las altas tasas de desempleo y subempleo en las disciplinas de la educación básica, el bajo promedio salarial con respecto a otras áreas de educación, los espacios de trabajo saturados con opciones poco compatibles con los perfiles profesionales, y los grados de satisfacción de las personas expertas en educación con datos del Observatorio Laboral Profesional (OLaP) de Conare y la encuesta trimestral de empleo. Para este análisis se consideró la desigualdad salarial, los contenidos y tareas de los trabajos disponibles que evidencian cómo se instrumentaliza la educación básica, su perfil vocacional y laboral. En consecuencia, este proceso mostró un desfase entre la formación universitaria en la educación básica y las exigencias profesionales moldeadas por la competitividad laboral, lo cual asienta las incertidumbres sociolaborales y educativas entre la adecuación de la carrera y las exigencias ─técnicas─ de los nuevos puestos de trabajo, lo cual demanda que se deban ejecutar, actualmente, ajustes vocacionales y laborales.

Plasmodium falciparum is the most lethal human malaria parasite, partly due to its genetic variability and ability to use multiple invasion routes via its binding to host cell surface receptors. The parasite extensively modifies infected red blood cell architecture to promote its survival which leads to increased cell membrane rigidity, adhesiveness and permeability. Merozoites are initially released from infected hepatocytes and efficiently enter red blood cells in a well-orchestrated process that involves specific interactions between parasite ligands and erythrocyte receptors; symptoms of the disease occur during the life-cycle’s blood stage due to capillary blockage and massive erythrocyte lysis. Several studies have focused on elucidating molecular merozoite/erythrocyte interactions and host cell modifications; however, further in-depth analysis is required for understanding the parasite’s biology and thus provide the fundamental tools for developing prophylactic or therapeutic alternatives to mitigate or eliminate Plasmodium falciparum-related malaria. This review focuses on the cellular and molecular events during Plasmodium falciparum merozoite invasion of red blood cells and the alterations that occur in an erythrocyte once it has become infected.

Las evaluaciones externas se han convertido en uno de los retos de los sistemas educativos en el mundo, Colombia no es la excepción, razón que ha llevado a investigadores desde diferentes áreas del conocimiento a indagar y gestionar estrategias pedagógicas innovadoras que fortalezcan procesos de aprendizaje, especialmente en lo relacionado con la lectura y escritura. La presente investigación se fundamentó en el análisis estadístico de los resultados de las Pruebas Saber 2014-2017 presentadas por estudiantes de una institución de educación superior de Bucaramanga, insumo relevante para la generación de estrategias que posibiliten el fortalecimiento del proceso lectoescritor a partir de la investigación acción en el aula, teniendo en cuenta el proceso de diseño, implementación, evaluación, reflexión y rediseño en estudiantes desde el primer semestre académico. Los resultados de la investigación apuntan a relacionar las deficiencias en el proceso lectoescritor desde la educación inicial y las dificultades en la gestión de sus emociones con el rendimiento académico en la educación superior.