Structure and Substrate Recognition of the Escherichia coli Transport Protein NupG from the Nucleoside: H+ Symporter (NHS) Family

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The nucleoside transporter NupG is one of the two principal transport proteins in the inner membrane of Escherichia coli that enable the organism to scavenge nucleosides from its external environment. NupG functions in a symport manner driven by the proton motive force and is a member of the Nucleoside:H+ Symporter (NHS) subfamily of the Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS) of transporters. NupG has broad substrate specificity, transporting all naturally occurring purine and pyrimidine nucleosides. In studies over many years the nupG gene has been cloned and amplified, and the NupG protein has been purified, subjected to biochemical, biophysical and computational analysis, and its X-ray structure determined in the apo state at 3.0 Å resolution. The NupG structure had a typical MFS fold with twelve transmembrane spanning α-helices and distinct N- and C-terminal domains linked by a flexible loop. Preliminary site-directed mutagenesis and molecular docking studies on NupG identified nine putative nucleoside binding pocket residues (R136, T140, F143, Q225, N228, Q261, E264, Y318, F322) and a mutant (D323A) with 20-fold enhanced uridine binding activity. Further biochemical and structural investigations are necessary to better understand the substrate recognition and molecular mechanism of E. coli NHS family proteins (NupG, XapB, YegT).

Positive Impacts of Chat GPT on English Teachers

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The integration of ChatGPT, an AI-driven language model, presents a myriad of benefits for English teachers seeking to enhance their instructional practices. This article explores the advantages afforded by leveraging ChatGPT in educational settings. Firstly, ChatGPT serves as a versatile tool for generating diverse and contextually relevant learning materials, including prompts, quizzes, and writing exercises, tailored to students’ proficiency levels and interests. Secondly, it facilitates personalized feedback by analyzing students’ responses in real-time, identifying areas for improvement, and offering targeted suggestions to foster language acquisition and mastery. Moreover, ChatGPT functions as a virtual assistant, augmenting teachers’ administrative tasks through automated grading, lesson planning support, and curriculum enrichment. Additionally, it fosters interactive and engaging learning experiences through its conversational interface, promoting active student participation and collaboration. Furthermore, ChatGPT can aid in fostering cultural understanding and global awareness by providing access to diverse perspectives and authentic language usage from around the world. Lastly, its continuous learning capabilities enable adaptation to evolving pedagogical needs and linguistic trends, ensuring relevance and effectiveness in English language instruction. In conclusion, the integration of ChatGPT empowers English teachers with innovative tools and resources to create dynamic, personalized, and impactful learning environments, ultimately advancing students’ language proficiency and fluency.

The Influence of Experience, Competence, Motivation, Professional Skepticism of Auditors on the Quality of BPKP Supervision (Study at BPKP North Sumatra Province)

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The supervision quality produced by the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency in Indonesia still needs to be improved, as evidenced by the trend of corruption cases from 2019 to 2020. This research aims to test and analyze the impact of various factors such as Experience, Competence, Motivation, and Auditor Professional Skepticism on Supervision Quality. This research uses quantitative descriptive methods. The population in this study were all BPKP auditors in North Sumatra Province. The research sample consisted of 100 BPKP auditors from North Sumatra Province. Data collection was carried out through distributing questionnaires and data analysis using the SmartPLS application. Research findings show that the Auditor’s Experience, Motivation, and Auditor Professional Skepticism positively affect the Supervision quality. Apart from that, competency does not affect the quality of supervision.

Health Management and Disease Control of Layers in Pullet Phase with a Box Cage System at Tandjaja Farm Kediri

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Laying hens have a longer production phase than other poultry, so they require strict health care. The purpose of this study was to determine how far a farm provides comfort to livestock in terms of health in order to maximize their productivity in the form eggs that are safe for consumstion by consumers. Therefore, research was conducted at Tandjaja Farm Kediri to find out how health management and disease control are there. This type of research is qualitative. There are two data collected, namely primary data and secondary data. The primary data was obtained from interviews and observations, while the secondary data came from the SOP/manual book of the company’s maintenance management. Data were analyzed by descriptive method. The results showed that Tandjaja Farm Kediri implemented biosecurity, medication, and vaccination programs for laying hens in the pullet phase. So this research shows that Health Management and Disease Control at Tandjaja Farm Kediri has been going well.

Legal Protection for Both Parties in the Execution of E-Commerce Based Buying and Selling Agreements Grounded in Justice

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The internet media used for trading is known as electronic commerce (e-commerce), a business process that provides facilities between buyers and sellers or companies, consumers, and specific communities in electronic transactions related to goods, services, and information. In order for the parties involved in the transaction to feel more comfortable and secure, electronic transactions have been regulated in the ITE Law. The research method used in this study is normative or doctrinal. The nature of this legal research is prescriptive. The technique of collecting legal materials in this research is through document study or literature review. The results of the study indicate that the process of implementing buying and selling transactions through e-commerce is carried out in several stages, namely Offer, Acceptance, Payment, and Delivery. The buying and selling agreement through e-commerce is included in electronic contracts. Based on Article 1 number 17 of Law Number 11 of 2008 concerning Electronic Information and Transactions. Article 1320 of the Civil Code which is then reaffirmed in Article 47 paragraph (2) of Government Regulation Number 88 of 2012 concerning the Implementation of Electronic Systems and Transactions. Legal protection for Shopee consumers is based on the Consumer Protection Law Number 8 of 1999 and the Electronic Information and Transactions Law No. 11 of 2008 can be seen in regulations regarding consumer rights protection and compensation.

Factors associated with the Indonesian workforce’ Pneumonia Vaccination Intention: A Convergent Parallel Study

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Pneumonia is part of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) that has high disease burden not only in the infants but also among Indonesian adult workforce. Following data from Indonesia medical trend by marsh mercer in 2023, Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) and Pneumonia showed significant burden in the workplace and recognized as one of highest cases, medical claim, productivity loss and hospitalization. Despite the availability of the vaccine to prevent Pneumonia, the vaccination utilization remains very low in Indonesia workforce and adult in general (Utomo, 2023). This study is aiming to understand better what are the factors that associated with the workforce’ Pneumonia vaccination intention especially after COVID-19 pandemic. This study adopts (Ajzen, 1991) Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in explaining the variables (Attitude, Subjective Norm, Perceived Behavior Control and knowledge) that influencing the vaccination intention among Indonesian workforce. This study applies a convergent parallel study with quantitative data analysis and qualitative data analysis are performed parallelly, followed with data integration as summary. The quantitative data is collected through online survey with non-probability sampling & purposive method. Total 151 adult respondents provided their response. The qualitative data is collected through semi-structured interview with total 5 respondents of key identified stakeholders. This study utilized Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS SEM) as data analysis method for quantitative and Thematic Analysis for qualitative method. The results show that attitude, perceived behavior control and knowledge of Acute Respiratory Infections are positively influenced the Pneumonia vaccination intention while subjective norm is not. This study also found the underlying cause of low preventive measurement like vaccination are due to several reasons like the belief of curative is the basic medical needs in the workplace, providing vaccination coverage is part of talent retain/attract strategy, additional cost burden in providing vaccination coverage. Lower awareness on vaccination benefit in general, diseases burden & Prevention of Pneumonia & ARI are the key blockers of the lower vaccination acceptance as preventive measurement in the workplace setting in Indonesia. Lastly, Influenza Vaccination and mask wearing is the most common preventive measurement that embraced by the employer and the employee. This study contributes the application of Extended Theory Planned Behaviour towards vaccination intention among Indonesia workforce for Pneumonia Vaccine and provide extensive insights and recommendation to the multi stakeholders on the strategy to put prevention through vaccination to tackle the high burden of Acute Respiratory Infection Especially Pneumonia among Indonesia workforce.

Development of Marketing Strategies with Digital Enhancements to Increase Patients’ Buying Decision in a Fertility Center

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Infertility is a significant global concern, affecting a substantial portion of the adult population. Defined as the inability of a married couple to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse, its prevalence is increasing worldwide. According to the World Health Organization’s 2023 data, one in six adults experiences infertility, with notable variations across income brackets. Indonesia also faces this issue, affecting 10–15% of reproductive-age couples. This research examines the critical role of marketing strategies, specifically the 7Ps marketing mix (Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People, Physical Evidence, and Process), in influencing consumer buying decisions in fertility centers. The study aims to identify key factors that significantly impact patient choices and propose strategic improvements to enhance patient acquisition and retention. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), this research evaluates the relationship between marketing mix components and patient decisions. The findings highlight the importance of competitive pricing, effective promotion, high-quality staff, and efficient service processes in attracting patients. Additionally, it underscores the need for facility improvements, continuous service quality enhancement, and ensuring access to fertility centers. Furthermore, the role of digitalization in enhancing marketing strategies is critical. Incorporating digital tools and AI can significantly improve patient engagement, streamline administrative processes, and provide personalized care. By leveraging digital platforms for promotions, virtual consultations, and patient follow-ups, fertility centers can enhance their reach and service efficiency. This integration of digital solutions is crucial for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving healthcare market. This study provides actionable insights for fertility centers to refine their marketing strategies, including digitalization to improve patient acquisition and retention.

Recent Advances in the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Addressing Diarrhea, Constipation, and Abdominal Pain

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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. This paper aim was to provide an overview of recent advancements in the treatment of IBS, focusing on the management of its main symptoms: diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

For individuals with IBS-D, various therapeutic options are available, including rifaximin, peripheral opioid agonists, mixed opioid agonists/antagonists, bile acid sequestrants, and serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Rifaximin, a nonabsorbable antibiotic, has demonstrated significant effectiveness in reducing IBS symptoms, such as bloating and loose stools, with good tolerability and safety. Also the repeated use of rifaximin for managing recurrent IBS symptoms. In IBS-C patients, bulking agents, osmotic laxatives, and prokinetic agents like lubiprostone have shown efficacy in improving constipation and overall symptoms. Linaclotide, a drug that increases intestinal chloride secretion, has demonstrated significant improvement in bowel movements and abdominal pain in IBS-C patients. However, it may cause diarrhea in some individuals. IBS-M, characterized by alternating constipation and diarrhea, poses a challenge in terms of specific drug treatments. A comprehensive assessment of potential underlying causes and careful history taking is crucial for effective management. Abdominal pain is a common symptom in IBS, regardless of subtype. Antispasmodic drugs, peppermint oil, and trimebutine have shown effectiveness in reducing pain and improving symptoms. Antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, may offer relief by modulating pain pathways and influencing gastrointestinal motility. Benzodiazepines, particularly dextofisopam, have shown potential in improving stool consistency but require further evaluation.

In conclusion, recent advancements in the treatment of IBS have provided a range of therapeutic options targeting its main symptoms. However, further research is needed to develop tailored treatments for specific IBS subtypes and to explore the efficacy of potential alternatives, including benzodiazepines. Improved management of IBS symptoms can significantly enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.

Evaluation of Lateral Load Resisting Systems in High-Rise Buildings

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The rapid urbanization and the scarcity of residential space in metropolitan areas necessitate the construction of tall structures to meet the growing accommodation demands. This research paper focuses mainly on the structural act of high-rise structures under lateral loads, especially earthquake forces. Three lateral load resisting systems, namely outrigger system, shear wall at core and shear wall at corner are compared and analysed. The study reviews relevant literature, discussing parameters affecting the fundamental time period of structural models and the effectiveness of distributed belt wall systems. The research methodology involves the analysis of a 40-storey regular office building using three different lateral load resisting systems. The results obtained through response spectrum analysis, shows that the outrigger system exhibits efficient structural capability in tall buildings. The maximum lateral displacement is significantly reduced in the outrigger system compared to core shear-wall and corner-shear wall. The study concludes that enhancing lateral load resistance and providing a transition path to perimeter columns subjected to lateral load, as seen in the outrigger-system, proves effective in mitigating the impact of earthquake loads on high-rise buildings.

 

Evaluation of Travel Time and Cost Burden for Working: A Case Study of Jalalabad City, Nangarhar, Afghanistan

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Evaluating travel time and cost burden for working in Jalalabad city is one of the key challenges for employees to use their modes of transportation for working place and as well as to examine the travel time difficulties encountered by those traveling to work in Jalalabad city. The everyday commute in urban areas has a substantial influence on the overall quality of life as a whole with longer travel times and congestion putting a strain on commuters’ fulfilment, efficiency, and happiness. Understanding and properly measuring these are critical for politicians and urban planners when developing successful transportation systems and policies. To meet the goals, multiple methods for estimating trip times were used, including survey-based techniques. To gather data on travel behaviors and trip times, declared preference questionnaires and indicated preference surveys were undertaken. The research investigated the average commute time and expense for several professional subjects and places, providing light on the differences in challenges faced by persons in various sectors. In addition, the overall average trip time and cost for various means of transportation were investigated to determine the effectiveness and affordability of every choice. The study’s findings add to the current research by focusing on Jalalabad city, Nangarhar and evaluating commute time burdens for work in the city. This small study wants to improve Jalalabad’s transit system and employees’ well-being by identifying suitable modes of transportation for commuters and important variables impacting these burdens and suggesting feasible solutions. The findings give useful insights for politicians and urban planners in developing specific programs to reduce commuter travel time barriers.