bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary study on C-organic and C-microbial biomass of peatland in Toba highlands
Authors: Munawaroh H , Rauf A , Razali  , Bintang  , Sabrina T
Published: July 2022

Toba highlands is unique and covers a large area. Peat plays an important role as a carbon sink, and is currently utilized for agricultural purposes, use as firewood, and left to degrade. The use of peatlands will impact the maturity of peat, and the emission of carbon dioxides and other gases caused by the decomposition process of microbes. A brief transformation of organic carbon from peat into carbon dioxide negatively impacts the environment, especially in increasing the greenhouse gas emissions. C-organic and C-microbial biomass was observed in peatlands of the Toba Highlands in Humbang Hasundutan, employing the Walkey and Black method, and fumigation and extraction methods to calculate the microbial population involved in the decomposition process or called C-microbial biomass. Moreover, descriptive method were used to map their distribution in the peat areas. The results showed that the highest C-organic was found in barren land at 22.05% and soil C-microbial biomass population was 3.24 µg g−1 soil, whereas the least C-Organic was found in peatland transferred to coffee fields, at 5.23% while the least C-microbial biomass was in peatland transferred to onion fields at 0.28 µg g−1 soil. There was a relatively small amount of organic matter and C-microbial biomass in paddy field, shallots, and grasses. Therefore, the results indicated that converting peatland into agricultural land would likely change the value of organic matter and C-biomass population.
Evaluation on the determination of available phosphorus using blue molybdate in Organosols
Authors: Garin Raihan , Simanjuntak Fransisca , Darmawan  , Sumawinata Basuki
Published: July 2022

Bray and Olsen methods have widely been used for measuring available phosphorous (P) in soil. Those methods have been known resulting good correlation between available P in soil and crops, especially for corn. Correlation between P uptake by plant and P concentration in Bray extractant ranges from 0.74 to 0.94; the method is, therefore, recommended for neutral and acid soils (pH ≤ 7.0). Meanwhile for Olsen method, correlation could span from 0.73 to 0.96 for alkaline soils. Both, however, have been observed to potentially result in false-high available P in Organosols. This might be due to dark color of Bray and Olsen extracts that reacting with blue molybdate and resulting in high values of absorbance during spectrophotometric measurement. In the case for Organosols, dissolved organic substance originates dark color of the extract. Therefore, organic substance should be eliminated prior to the measurement. This research explored an improvement for available P measurement in Organosols by treating the extract with H2O2 and an activated charcoal. This treatment the Olsen extracts has resulted in a notable available P gap, i.e. 102.7 ppm of treated extracts compared to 1207.7 ppm of untreated one.
Tropical peatlands in North Kalimantan: characteristics, extent, and estimates of carbon stock
Authors: Sukarman  , Gani Rachmat Abdul
Published: July 2022

North Kalimantan Province has the third largest tropical peatlands in Kalimantan Island. Despite this, a detailed data on the characteristics, extent, and carbon stock of tropical peatlands in North Kalimantan is currently not available. Therefore, BBSDLP has carried out a semi-detailed peatlands mapping on Nunukan and Tana Tidung Regencies and Tarakan City, North Kalimantan Province. Peat soil mapping refers to SNI 7925:2019, scale of 1:50,000. The study found that peatlands in North Kalimantan covered about 216.944 ha, with the majority extent in Tana Tidung Regency (71.512 ha), followed by Nunukan Regency (142.198 ha) and Tarakan City (3.233 ha). Peatlands in this area occupied fluvio-marine (B) and peat (G) landforms, with hemic and sapric decomposition levels, and a depth of 50 - < 700 cm (shallow to extra very deep). Substratum layer, i.e. mineral soils, comprised of clay to sandy clay soil texture. According to the Indonesian Soil Classification system, peat soil in the research area was categorized as Organosol Saprik, Organosol Hemik and Organosol Fibrik. Estimated carbon stock was about 328.80 M tons C, with an average of 1.516 tons ha−1. With this large figure, the results emphasize the importance of peatlands for land use and spatial planning.
The perspective of oil palm production in swampland as a result of soil properties diversity: Review of survey results in Kalimantan and Sumatra
Authors: Wakhid N , Mawardi  , Hairani A , Noor M
Published: July 2022

Currently, oil palm plantation has expanded into marginal lands, including swamp agroecosystems. Rapid development of oil palm plantation is due to increasing demand for raw materials of bioenergy. Utilization of swamplands for oil palm development is hindered by unfavorable physical, chemical, and soil fertility properties and vital environmental issues. However, many research demonstrate the potential and appropriate agronomic suitability for oil palm cultivation. This paper presents findings on surveys conducted on Kalimantan and Sumatra swamps. Land evaluation from six swampland sites showed that at the average, 36% of swamplands were categorized as moderately suitable (S2). Meanwhile, 37% of those were marginally suitable (S3), with the rest was not suitable (N). The evaluation indicated severe issues associated with unsuitable class (N), including shallow (<50 cm) pyrite, thick layer (>3 m) of peat and high level of inundation (>2 m) with a prolonged (3-6 months) overflow. In addition to these, acidity, peat maturity and nutrient status also serve as the limiting factors. Actual oil palm productivity in swamps remains low due to suboptimal cultivation technology and land and environmental management. It is, therefore, necessary to increase entrepreneurs and farmers’ capacity to improve management and cultivation systems. Land selection for site development should respect the following requirements: pyrite depth >100 cm, peat thickness >3 m with sapric maturity level, mixed peat and mineral soils, soil pH ranging from 5.0 to 6.0 and base saturation around 30%.
Response of four oil palm varieties to low frond desiccation in the main nursery with water stress conditions on peat
Authors: Muhayat  , Rauf A , Mukhlis  , Winarna
Published: July 2022

Oil palm is an important commodities for plantation sub-sector in Indonesia. The limitation of mineral soils for agriculture directs utilization of peatland for oil palm plantation. The major problem of peatland plantations is Low Frond Desiccation (LFD) due to fluctuation of groundwater. This study observed the responses of oil palm in the main nursery to water stress as well as the changes in physical and physiological properties of plants. This research using factorial randomized block design, replicated three times with two factors (four oil palm varieties and five watering stoppage) to determine plant responses to watering stoppage. The results showed that watering stoppage can increase the LFD incidence, decrease leaf chlorophyll, water content and plant height. The highest incidence and LFD intensity was at 5 weeks watering stoppage with the highest LFD intensity value of 45.67%. LFD started at 2 weeks watering stoppage with LFD intensity ranging from Dumpy variety 17.69%, DxP 540 variety 28.58%, Langkat variety 29,46%, Yangambi variety 38.89%. The oil palm varieties having the highest LFD intensity at 5 weeks watering stoppage were found in the Yangambi variety and the lowest was in the Dumpy variety.
Management and development of oil palm cultivation in swamplands in perspective of limitation and sustainability
Authors: Annisa Wahida , Susilawati Ani , Noor Muhammad
Published: July 2022

Development of oil palm plantations in swamps in the last ten years has progressed rapidly as a result of limited availability of fertile lands. Due to the nature of the environment, productivity over swamp land is quite different from other ecosystems. Studies reported that average productivity of oil palm in swamps ranges from 0.8-1.2 tons fresh fruit bunch (FFB)/ha/month (equivalently 9-10 t FFB/ha). Economic analysis shows that this productivity level does not provide a benefit to the farmers. It was reported, however, that with the intervention and introduction of good management and technology, productivity of swamp land can reach 25-27 t FFB/ha and on peat soil it can reach 19 t FFB/ha. Socio-economic factors such as capital, knowledge, technology, labor, physical infrastructure or other facilities significantly affect palm oil productivity. Identification of economic, socio-political, and ecological aspects drive a concept of sustainable development for oil palm plantation. This paper reviews results related to this development in the perspective of limiting issues related to sustainability. Development of oil palm plantations expects high productivity and stability, yet promoting equality and local wisdom towards sustainable environment. Good management of soil and water is the key for oil palm farming in swamp lands. There are four properties of sustainable agroecosystems, namely productivity, stability, sustainability and equity.
Comparison of Bio- and Ferric Leaching for Beneficiation of Bulk Copper-Nickel Sulfidic Concentrate
Authors: Panyushkina A E , Fomchenko N V , Muravyov M I
Published: July 2022

Processing of sulfidic raw materials, including bulk concentrates of nonferrous metals, is a problem of current importance in metallurgy and waste recycling. In this study, leaching with a chemical ferric iron reagent was compared to two bio-approaches to process a bulk copper-nickel concentrate: (1) ferric leaching with a solution obtained by microbial oxidation and (2) stirred-tank bioleaching using an active acidophilic microbial community. The results of both the chemical and bio-processes indicated nickel dissolution, while copper was accumulated in leach residues. After short-term high-temperature leaching with the chemical or bio- solution (Fe3+, 10 g/L), the nickel content in solids decreased by 0.7 and 2.6%, respectively, while the copper content slightly increased (by 1.5–3.2%). Bioleaching at 40°C was characterized by a considerably higher efficacy of the process: nickel leaching reached 86.7%, and the copper content increased by ~5% in the bioleach residue. Based on these results, ferric leaching can be considered an inefficient method for selective nickel removal, while bioleaching may be a promising cost-effective approach characterized by relatively low environmental hazards to obtain a high-grade copper product. Moreover, ferric leaching with the bio-solution can improve the grade of monometallic sulfidic concentrates due to additional selective nickel extraction.
Feasibility of Using Tabagwang Waste Shells as Catalyst in the Production of Biodiesel from Yellow Grease
Authors: Columbres Kim V. , Pasion Junel S. , Salvador John Paulo P. , Calaycay John Patrick T. , Ulit John Carlo G. , Caranto Cristina M. , Retumban Joseph D.
Published: July 2022

Heterogeneous catalytic transesterification of yellow grease, commonly known as used cooking oil, utilizing the calcium oxide derived from waste shells of Jagora asperata, locally known as tabagwang, was carried out to produce biodiesel. Waste tabagwang shells were prepared and calcined at 900°C for 4 hours under static air to obtain CaO. The prepared CaO was used as a catalyst in the transesterification of used cooking oil. Reaction conditions such as temperature (45°C and 60°C), catalyst loading (2% and 10%), and methanol-to-oil molar ratio (6:1 and 9:1) were considered to evaluate the feasibility of the catalyst in terms of percent yield. For the given set of parameters, the largest yield of 4.85 mL biodiesel, corresponding to 9.70%, was obtained at temperature of 45°C, catalyst loading of 2%, and methanol-to-oil ratio of 9:1. Using a two-level factorial design, an optimum yield of 10.06% was calculated with the following conditions: temperature, 47.06°C; catalyst loading, 2.03%; methanol-to-oil molar ratio, 8.93:1.
Whether the Darrieus Rotor with Straight-Blades or Curved-blades is the Best, in Terms of Aerodynamic Efficiency
Authors: Abusannuga Hashem , Özkaymak Mehmet
Published: July 2022

An essential part of any wind turbine system is the rotor because it is the component that is in direct contact with wind and converts its kinetic energy into mechanical power. Then, it can either use this mechanical power directly to run some machinery, or you can use it to run an electricity generator and get electricity. One such turbine which is ideal for small-scale applications is the Darrieus wind turbine. This turbine has two blade configurations, straight or curved. This study aims to figure out the influences of these two blade configurations on the aerodynamic performance of the wind turbine. The engineering geometric shape of a parabolic Darrieus rotor was selected with certain dimensions, in this study it called P-D, and then a straight blade Darrieus rotor was extracted from it, in this study it called S-D1, similar to that of a parabolic in terms of rotor diameter and rotor height values, number of blades, blade section length and its type. Thus, a geometric similarity was obtained between the two rotors in terms of height to diameter ratio value and solidity value. Another rotor called S-D2 was also extracted and it is similar to P-D in terms of blade length, which means that the parabolic blade is straightened. There is also a similarity in solidity, and therefore it can be said that the masses of the rotors P-D and S-D2 are equal. This is the methodology that was followed to make the comparison in terms of aerodynamic. This analysis is done by developing a computer program that is based on mathematical model called multi-stream tube which modified to apply on both configurations of Darrieus turbine. The straight-bladed configuration is the best, according to this study.
A Literature Review of the Kalina Cycle and Trends
Authors: Dela Cruz Graciano Emmanuelito E. , Manuel Mark Christian E.
Published: July 2022

The demand for electricity and power has been increasing with the increase of the population of the world. The Covid-19 Pandemic has affected the way of life of human beings starting last year. The pandemic and economic downturn also affected the electricity demand of the world, but this is only short-term. Once the lockdowns around the world ease and back to normal situation begin, demand for power and electricity shall continue to grow. The century-old Rankine cycle has been the basis for power plants widely used today. However, a modified Rankine cycle known as the Kalina cycle has been proving more efficient than the standard Rankine cycle and might be able to provide the additional power needed in medium and low-temperature sources and waste heat recovery. This paper look into the development of the Kalina cycle and the trends that might be of use for the global electricity requirement.
Optimization and Integration of Renewable Energy Sources with Regional Tourism Potentials to Improve the Welfare of Local Communities
Authors: Asyuri R K , Setiawan E A
Published: July 2022

Indonesia is a country with a tropical climate and has tens of thousands of islands. One of the challenges is that archipelagic countries generally have limited local resources and high energy import costs. Renewable energy technologies in most islands are often not running and are unsustainable due to the many problems involved, one of which is the lack of clarity on management and generating assets. As a result, power plants generally only run for a short time and do not provide electrical energy for the community. In addition to the unavailability of electricity, the COVID-19 virus certainly also affects activities, especially people who rely heavily on the tourism sector as their main livelihood. Therefore, it is necessary to explore how an island could survive in this force majeure situation, both from the sustainability of renewable energy and the tourism sector. This research aims to explain what factors affect the sustainability of renewable energy in supplying electricity to the community in the long term and will present the interrelation between the tourism sector and the presence of renewable energy technology. The method used is an in-depth interview and questionnaire with a Likert scale. The research was conducted on the island of Mecan and the obtained data were simulated in the form of CLD (Causal Loop Diagram). The results indicate that renewable energy sustainability on Mecan Island has made access to electricity available throughout the day and has improved the welfare of residents.
Hosting Capacity of the Power Grid for Electric Vehicles - A Case Study on a Swedish Low Voltage Grid
Authors: Sandström M , Bales C , Dotzauer E
Published: July 2022

Hosting capacity (HC) is described as the maximum amount of new production or consumption that can be added to the grid without causing a violation. In this case study, a deterministic approach is used to investigate the HC of electric vehicle (EV) charging in a low-voltage grid, containing 13 detached single-family houses. It investigates how different parameters affect the HC, and what is causing the violation in the grid. Two different performance indices (PI) are used in the study: power cable overloading and voltage drop. The local grid is simulated for one year for four cases and the HC is derived for these. The cases are distinguished by two different violation thresholds for the voltage drop and two different implementation orders of the location of the charging. The results show that the HC of the grid is 6-11 EVs charging simultaneously. The difference in HC is primarily due to variation in the baseload through the year and location of charging. The cable between the substation and the first cable cabinet was the major contributor to the fault, and the PI causing the violation differed depending on what case was used.
Temperature based Enhanced Desorption of Adsorbed Biomethane Stored on Sustainable Nanoporous Materials
Authors: Adlak Komalkant , Chandra Ram , Vijay Virendra Kumar , Pant Kamal Kishore
Published: July 2022

In recent years, adsorbed natural gas storage has been seen as a better alternative to storing methane-rich gas on porous materials. Especially when these porous materials can be derived from a source like biomass whole process becomes valuable development. However, the problem of lower delivery capacity and the amount of gas released upon releasing the pressure remains unsolved. The micropores developed on the activated carbons retain the gas as they cannot get the activation energy to detach from the surface. The thermodynamics of the desorption process discourages the overall technological development of the system. We have carried out studies under particular temperatures by placing material and gas-filled cylinder in a water bath to overcome this challenge. Coconut based activated carbons were used in the study, which were procured from the market. Adsorption isotherm and other characteristics were performed for activated carbons. The desorption amount of the gas was recorded for different temperatures of 40, 45, 50 and 55 °C. At room temperature, nearly 54% of adsorbed gas is being released. Whereas, at 55 °C, approximately 80% of the gas is being recovered. This work will be useful for the externally cylinder fitted vehicles where the exhaust stream can be channelised to warm the surrounding of the cylinder to facilitate the higher discharge of the adsorbed gas.
Building Assessment and Statistical Characterisation of the Mediterranean Social Housing Stock in Southern Spain
Authors: Calama-González C M , Escandón R , Alonso A , León-Rodríguez Á L , Suárez R
Published: July 2022

Given that the existing residential buildings are expected to become a huge part of the future stock due to their low replacement rate, retrofitting plans are crucial to meet 2030 and 2050 energy efficiency targets. Notwithstanding, an extensive assessment of the current energy and thermal performance of the stock must be conducted prior to the proposal of energy saving measures in order to properly tackle the retrofit process. Thus, the analysis and characterisation of the existing buildings under real variability conditions through statistical techniques is key to provide useful information at the stock level, instead of the most commonly single-building level approach. In the presented study, a statistical analysis on the most predominant variability ranges of the social housing stock of southern Spain (Andalusia) is carried out. Efforts are focused on the building characterisation of the linear block typology. To do so, an extensive database, which contains information on slightly under 39,500 social dwellings, is analysed. The conclusions reported in this study may be implemented into the construction of real case building archetypes through bottom-up building stock modelling techniques with the objective of assessing the real energy and thermal performance of the existing stock, providing useful information for public stakeholders.
Traditional Architecture as a Typological Basis for Ecological and Sustainable Architectural Design from a Climatic Perspective. The Colonial Houses of the Central Valley; Santiago, Chile.
Authors: Flores David , Pareti Stefania , Valdebenito Vicente , Carmona Samuel
Published: July 2022

The present study aims to explore the Colonial House in the central valley of Chile, as a typological basis for an ecological and sustainable architectural design, mainly in relation to passive climate conditioning strategies, thinking about the minimization of external agents that take care of this. The city of Santiago is selected as a case study because it is a highly urbanized area, implying constant challenges about sustainable urban development. Regarding the object, these are traditional constructions with local materials and vernacular techniques, therefore they are related to the material heritage of the area and present proven climatic strategies that can be extrapolated to establish them within a contemporary context. The methodology is carried out through a constructive analysis of a typical house to understand the decisions taken and how they influence the habitability of the building. This will be complemented with the study of secondary sources and the comparison with contemporary examples to explore the application of the referenced strategies. It is concluded that traditional typologies allow the development of new proposals associated with sustainable logics due to the constructive and climatic understandings that vernacular notions imply.
Model of University Development in Thailand 4.0 Era toward “Green Campus Concept”
Authors: Mongkoldhumrongkul Krittaphas , Sukkanta Phatcharapron
Published: July 2022

Beneath the green university concept, actions for university sustainability are the approaches to mitigate environmental impacts. For effective operation, understanding of patterns and key factors contributed to a green university in order to plan and improve the performance for maximum efficiency. The research aim was to develop a university development model in Thailand 4.0 era toward “green campus concept”. The participants of this study were students at King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Rayong campus in the 2019 academic year. The sample size was 364 respondents derived from simple random sampling. The collecting data acquired from the questionnaire which verified the model by Structural Equation Modelling. The results revealed that the model was in accordance with the empirical data and passed the evaluation criteria. All factors: Satisfaction, Attitude, Participation, and Perception had influence on Green University Model. Attitude and Perception have a significant impact on Participation of Green University Model development. Furthermore, Satisfaction affected Participation indirectly and significantly (P=0.01). Its Chi-square probability level, relative Chi-square, goodness of fit index, and root mean square error of approximation were 0.246, 0.132, 0.93, and 0.042 respectively. The statistical significance of this study was set at 0.05. Based on the findings, the implementation for green campus should stress on Perception factor and Satisfaction factor because they have direct and indirect effects on Green University Model. Understanding the causal model would endorse the chief executive to plan and decide on successful green university projects.
Investigation into wideband electromagnetic stealth device based on plasma array and radar-absorbing materials
Authors: DENG Xuesong , DING Chenglong , WANG Yahui , LI Zhigang , CHENG Li , CHEN Zongsheng , LV Xiangyin , SHI Jiaming
Published: July 2022

Manipulation of electromagnetic waves is essential to various microwave applications, and absorbing devices composed of low-pressure gas discharge tubes and radar-absorbing materials (RAM) can bring new solutions to broadband electromagnetic stealth. The microwave transmission method is used to measure the physical parameters of the plasma unit. The designed structure exhibits superior absorption performance and radar cross-section (RCS) reduction capability in the 2–18 GHz band, with unique absorption advantage in the S and C frequency bands. It is found that the combination of the plasma and the RAM can significantly broaden the absorption frequency band and improve the absorption performance with excellent synergistic stealth capability. Experimental and simulation results present that broadband, wide-angle, tunable electromagnetic wave absorption and RCS reduction can be achieved by adjusting the spatial layout of the combined plasma layer and the type of RAMs, which creates opportunities for microwave transmission and selective stealth of equipment. Therefore, the wave manipulation by combined plasma array and RAM provides a valuable reference for developing numerous applications, including radar antenna stealth, spatial filter, and high power microwave shielding.
GHSR1a deficiency suppresses inhibitory drive on dCA1 pyramidal neurons and contributes to memory reinforcement
Authors: Li Na , Li Nan , Yang Liu , Gu Huating , Ji Junjie , Zhou Hao , Zhu Qianqian , Yu Ming , Sun Yuxiang , Zhou Yu
Published: July 2022

Growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR1a)—the receptor for orexigenic hormone ghrelin—is a G protein-coupled receptor that is widely distributed in the brain, including the hippocampus. Studies have demonstrated that genetic deletion of GHSR1a affects memory, suggesting the importance of ghrelin/GHSR1a signaling in cognitive control. However, current reports are controversial, and the mechanism underlying GHSR1a modulation of memory is uncertain. Here, we first report that global GHSR1a knockout enhances hippocampus-dependent memory, facilitates initial LTP in dorsal hippocampal Schaffer Collateral-CA1 synapses, and downregulates Akt activity in the hippocampus. Moreover, we show that the intrinsic excitability of GAD67+ interneurons—rather than neighboring pyramidal neurons in the dCA1—is suppressed by GHSR1a deletion, an effect that is antagonized by acute application of the Akt activator SC79. In addition, the inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) on dCA1 pyramidal neurons are selectively reduced in mice with a GHSR1a deficiency. Finally, we demonstrate that selectively increasing the excitability of parvalbumin-expressing interneurons by hM3Dq-DREADDs increases IPSCs on dCA1 pyramidal neurons and normalizes memory in Ghsr1a KO mice. Our findings thus reveal a novel mechanism underlying memory enhancement of GHSR1a deficiency and herein support an adverse effect of GHSR1a signaling in hippocampus-dependent memory processes.
Harmonization Status of Serum Ferritin Measurements and Implications for Use as Marker of Iron-Related Disorders
Authors: Braga Federica , Pasqualetti Sara , Frusciante Erika , Borrillo Francesca , Chibireva Mariia , Panteghini Mauro
Published: July 2022

Background

Serum ferritin is considered a suitable biomarker of iron-related disorders. However, data about the comparability of results among commercial measuring systems (MSs) are contradictory. We performed an intercomparison study aimed at verifying the current interassay variability and its impact on clinical application of the test. Obtaining this information is vital because manufacturers continue to claim calibration alignment to different WHO preparations, which are not related to each other in terms of traceability.

Methods

Four widely used MSs were evaluated. The interassay agreement was verified using 39 human serum pools. The recovery of WHO International Standard (IS) 94/572 (the only reference material available at the time of the study) was evaluated, after assessing the material commutability. Finally, an approach for harmonizing ferritin results was proposed.

Results

Highly significant differences (P < 0.00001) among ferritin concentrations assayed by different MSs were detected and the interassay CV (median 22.9%; interquartile range 21.8–25.5) overlapped the desirable intermethod bias (24.6%). IS 94/572 was commutable for use only with Access and Centaur, with Access being the only MS correctly recovering its assigned value. Accordingly, we used regression data against Access to recalibrate MSs, indirectly aligning them to IS 94/572, with a substantial improvement in degree of harmonization and traceability to higher-order reference.

Conclusions

The harmonization among evaluated ferritin MSs is far from optimal, with the implementation of traceability to different WHO ISs being a factor of confusion. A recalibration approach, however, would permit measurement harmonization, allowing the use of common decision thresholds.
Endoscopic versus fluoroscopic esophageal dilatations in children with esophageal strictures: 10-year experience
Authors: Marom Adi , Davidovics Zev , Bdolah-Abram Tali , Ledder Oren
Published: July 2022

Esophageal strictures in children may cause dysphagia, choking during feeds, and failure to thrive. They can be treated by balloon dilatations, either under endoscopic or fluoroscopic guidance; there is no literature comparing the methods. Retrospective review of the medical records of children (0–18 years) who were treated with balloon dilatations between 2010 and 2020. The primary outcome was the number of dilatation sessions required until clinical success after 3 months. Secondary outcomes were long-term success at 12 months, and complications of bleeding and perforation. Forty-six patients underwent 174 dilatation sessions. Success rates in the endoscopy and fluoroscopy groups were similar: 62% versus 67% (p = 0.454) at 3 months and 57% versus 67% (p = 0.721) at 12 months. Complication rate was lower in the endoscopy group (0% vs. 15%, p < 0.001). Both endoscopic and radiologic-guided balloon dilatations were shown to be equally effective, but endoscopic guidance had fewer complications.
Genetic Variation and Population Structure of the Old World Bollworm Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner, 1808) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Ethiopia
Authors: Fite Tarekegn , Tefera Tadele , Husemann Martin , Getaneh Gezahegne , Villinger Jandouwe
Published: July 2022

Helicoverpa armigera is one of the most destructive insect pests of economically valuable crops in the world. Despite its economic importance, the population genetic structure of this insect remains unexplored in Ethiopia. To investigate the genetic diversity and population structure of H. armigera, we sampled 170 individuals from 15 populations throughout Ethiopia. We sequenced a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene and five exon-primed intron-crossing (EPIC) markers. Twenty cyt b haplotypes with low-to-moderate haplotype diversity (mean Hd = 0.537) and high nucleotide diversity (mean Pi = 0.00339) were identified. The most frequently observed and widely distributed cyt b haplotype was designated as Hap_1 (67.058%), which is identical to sequences found across the globe. Tajima’s D and Fu’s F for the cyt b data were negative, supporting a model of population expansion. Within populations, a mean of 2.493 alleles/locus was recorded across the five EPIC loci, ranging from 1.200 to 3.600 alleles/locus. The highest mean effective number of alleles/population was 2.369 and the lowest was 1.178. The mean observed heterozygosity (HO) of the five loci (0–0.289; mean 0.104 ± 0.020) was lower than the expected heterozygosity (HE) (0.095–0.523; mean 0.258 ± 0.028). AMOVA detected significant genetic structure with 61% of the total molecular genetic variation of EPIC genotypes occurring between populations, suggesting a considerable degree of differentiation among populations. STRUCTURE analyses clustered the H. armigera populations into three distinct population groups but very low isolation by distance (R2 = 0.0132, P < 0.05).
Intergovernmental Yet Dynamically Expansive: Concordance Legalization as an Alternative Regional Trading Arrangement in ASEAN and Beyond
Authors: Tan Hsien-Li
Published: July 2022

The conventional regional trading arrangement landscape holds two primary models. One is the ‘dynamically expansive supranational model’ of the European Union (EU) that progressively enlarges its community beyond the constituent treaty through its evolving laws and institutions. The other is the ‘static intergovernmental model’ of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) where members strictly uphold obligations in the original agreement – no more and no less. A certain genre of Asia-Pacific regional trading arrangements (and beyond in the global South) sits uncomfortably within this bifurcated landscape. Sovereignty-centric, they seek a dynamic and ever-expanding community like the EU but, firmly rejecting supranationalism, insist on intergovernmental modalities as seen in the USMCA. Unsurprisingly, they have not been effective. Using post-2007 integration data from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, this article presents concordance legalization as a new explanatory framework in this landscape, demonstrating how one can regionalize successfully despite being simultaneously agenda expansive and intergovernmentally operational. Concordance legalization’s four-pronged strategy – the constituent treaty explicitly entrenching intergovernmentalism to facilitate dynamic agenda expansion; the dual-step system of primary and secondary laws (with a carefully calibrated use of hard and soft instruments); the organizational hierarchy that expands, implements and exerts intra-regional accountability pressures through numerous meetings and monitoring mechanisms (rather than adjudication) that enforce compliance – has enabled this curious success.
Fertility History and Risk of Cognitive Impairment Among Older Parents in the United States
Authors: Zhang Yan
Published: July 2022

Objectives

I work from a gendered life-course perspective to examine the association between older parents’ fertility history (i.e., timing and parity) and their risk of cognitive impairment in the United States.

Methods

I analyze nationally representative data from 9 waves over 16 years of the Health and Retirement Study (2000–2016). The sample includes 14,543 respondents (6,108 men and 8,435 women) aged 50 and older at the baseline survey. I examine the relationship between parity, age at first birth, and age at last birth with risk of cognitive impairment using nonlinear discrete-time hazard models.

Results

Adjusting for the effects of full covariates, there are U-shaped relationships between women’s age at last birth and risk of cognitive impairment and between women’s parity and risk of cognitive impairment. In the sensitivity tests, the relationships remain robust when sampling weights are applied, or mortality selection is corrected.

Discussion

Fertility timing and parity are likely factors associated with the risk of cognitive impairment for older women. Understanding fertility history and its impact on cognition can help identify the most vulnerable subpopulations, so that more effective interventions can be made to improve cognitive functioning among older adults.
Everyday Justice: Legal Aid for Jewish Displaced Persons, Germany, 1945–1950
Authors: Brot Rivka
Published: July 2022

Welfare workers volunteering with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), a Jewish welfare organization, delivered crucial legal assistance to Holocaust survivors gathered in displaced persons (DP) camps in the American Zone of occupied Germany; however, today their story is largely forgotten. Their legal aid program embodied a unique relationship between social work and law. JDC relief workers developed a legal consciousness in response to the many injustices they witnessed in the DP camps, which allowed them to identify the gap between the basic support provided by relief programs, and the actual needs of the DPs. From this awareness they gradually developed a program of legal welfare, assisted Jews in their daily interactions with Americans and Germans, provided them with legal instruction and education, and protected them when conflicts arose. These JDC volunteers were fueled by a sense of moral responsibility and compassion for the Jewish DPs, who were forced to live in a foreign and often hostile environment. Remarkably, this story has largely been neglected in Holocaust scholarship, though the archives have yielded hundreds of reports by JDC welfare workers, as well as the papers of Oskar Mintzer, a key figure in the creation of the JDC’s legal aid program. The JDC was at the forefront of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, and this aspect of its work represents a forgotten milestone in the development of a more holistic approach to refugee assistance and support. This study offers a starting point for further research in order to better understand humanitarian aid for asylum seekers, DPs, and refugees in the twenty-first century.
Comparative genomic analyses of multiple backcross mouse populations suggestSGCGas a novel potential obesity-modifier gene
Authors: Kuhn Tanja , Kaiser Katharina , Lebek Sandra , Altenhofen Delsi , Knebel Birgit , Herwig Ralf , Rasche Axel , Pelligra Angela , Görigk Sarah , Khuong Jenny Minh-An , Vogel Heike , Schürmann Annette , Blüher Matthias , Chadt Alexandra , Al-Hasani Hadi
Published: July 2022

To nominate novel disease genes for obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D), we recently generated two mouse backcross populations of the T2D-susceptible New Zealand Obese (NZO/HI) mouse strain and two genetically different, lean and T2D-resistant strains, 129P2/OlaHsd and C3HeB/FeJ. Comparative linkage analysis of our two female backcross populations identified seven novel body fat-associated quantitative trait loci (QTL). Only the locus Nbw14 (NZO body weight on chromosome 14) showed linkage to obesity-related traits in both backcross populations, indicating that the causal gene variant is likely specific for the NZO strain as NZO allele carriers in both crosses displayed elevated body weight and fat mass. To identify candidate genes for Nbw14, we used a combined approach of gene expression and haplotype analysis to filter for NZO-specific gene variants in gonadal white adipose tissue, defined as the main QTL-target tissue. Only two genes, Arl11 and Sgcg, fulfilled our candidate criteria. In addition, expression QTL analysis revealed cis-signals for both genes within the Nbw14 locus. Moreover, retroviral overexpression of Sgcg in 3T3-L1 adipocytes resulted in increased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. In humans, mRNA levels of SGCG correlated with body mass index and body fat mass exclusively in diabetic subjects, suggesting that SGCG may present a novel marker for metabolically unhealthy obesity. In conclusion, our comparative-cross analysis could substantially improve the mapping resolution of the obesity locus Nbw14. Future studies will throw light on the mechanism by which Sgcg may protect from the development of obesity.
Basolateral Amygdala SIRT1/PGC-1α Mitochondrial Biogenesis Pathway Mediates Morphine Withdrawal-Associated Anxiety in Mice
Authors: Yin Fangyuan , Zhang Jinyu , Liu Yige , Zhai Yifang , Luo Danlei , Yan Xinyue , Feng Yue , Lai Jianghua , Zheng Haibo , Wei Shuguang , Wang Yunpeng
Published: July 2022

Background

Anxiety is a negative emotion that contributes to craving and relapse during drug withdrawal. Sirtuins 1 (SIRT1) has been reported to be critical in both negative emotions and drug addiction. However, it remains incompletely elucidated whether SIRT1 is involved in morphine withdrawal-associated anxiety.

Methods

We established a mouse model of anxiety-like behaviors induced by morphine withdrawal and then detected neuronal activity with immunofluorescence and mitochondrial morphology with electron microscopy, mitochondrial DNA contents with quantitative real-time PCR, and mitochondrial function with the ATP content detection kit and the Mitochondrial Complex IV Activity Kit in the basolateral amygdala (BLA). The mitochondrial molecules were detected by western blot. Then we used virus-mediated downregulation and overexpression of SIRT1 in BLA to investigate the effect of SIRT1 on anxiety and mitochondrial function. Finally, we examined the effects of pharmacological inhibition of SIRT1 on anxiety and mitochondrial function.

Results

We found that BLA neuronal activity, mitochondrial function, and mtDNA content were significantly higher in morphine withdrawal mice. Furthermore, the expression levels of mitochondrial molecules increased in BLA cells. Virus-mediated downregulation of SIRT1 in BLA prevented anxiety-like behaviors in morphine withdrawal mice, whereas overexpression of SIRT1 in BLA facilitated anxiety-like behaviors in untreated mice through the SIRT1/ peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha pathway. Intra-BLA infusion of selective SIRT1 antagonist EX527 effectively ameliorated anxiety-like behaviors and mitochondrial dysfunction in mice with morphine withdrawal.

Conclusion

Our results implicate a causal role for SIRT1 in the regulation of anxiety through actions on mitochondrial biogenesis. Inhibitors targeting SIRT1 may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of opioid withdrawal-associated anxiety.
Prevalence and factors associated with faecal carriage of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales among peripartum women in the community in Cambodia
Authors: de Lauzanne Agathe , Sreng Navin , Foucaud Elsa , Sok Touch , Chon Thida , Yem Chhaily , Hak Veasna , Heng Sothada , Soda Meng , Gouali Malika , Nadimpalli Maya , Inghammar Malin , Rabenandrasana Mamitina Alain Noah , Collard Jean Marc , Vray Muriel , Hello Simon Le , Kerleguer Alexandra , Piola Patrice , Delarocque-Astagneau Elisabeth , Guillemot Didier , Huynh Bich Tram , Borand Laurence ,   BIRDY study group, Zo Andrianirina Zafitsara , Diatta Marguerite , Diouf Jean Baptiste , Sarr Fatoumata Diene , Faye Joseph , Goyet Sophie , Herindrainy Perlinot , Kermorvant-Duchemin Elsa , Lach Siyin , Ngo Veronique , Padget Michael , Rakotoarimanana Feno Manitra Jacob , Raheliarivao Bodonirina Tanjona , Randrianirina Frédérique , Seck Abdoulaye , Tarantola Arnaud , Youssouf Armya Abdou
Published: July 2022

Background

In Southeast-Asia, where many conditions associated with dissemination of ESBL-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-E) in the community are met, data from the community are scarce but show high ESBL-E carriage prevalence. Maternal ESBL-E colonization is considered a risk factor for neonatal colonization, which is the first step towards developing neonatal sepsis. Despite this, ESBL-E carriage prevalence and its risk factors during pregnancy or postpartum remain undefined in Southeast-Asia.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of ESBL-E faecal colonization among peripartum women in the community of an urban and a rural area in Cambodia, to investigate ESBL-E genomic characteristics and to identify associated risk factors.

Methods

Epidemiological data and faecal samples from 423 peripartum women were collected in an urban and rural areas in Cambodia (2015–16). Bacterial cultures, antibiotic susceptibility tests and ESBL gene sequencing were performed. Risk factor analysis was conducted using logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of ESBL-E faecal carriage was 79.2% (95% CI 75.0%–82.8%) among which Escherichia coli (n = 315/335, 94.0%) were most frequent. All isolates were multidrug resistant. Among 318 ESBL-E, the genes most frequently detected were blaCTX-M-15 (41.5%), blaCTX-M-55 (24.8%), and blaCTX-M-27 (15.1%). Low income, undernutrition, multiparity, regular consumption of pork, dried meat, and raw vegetables, were associated with ESBL-E faecal carriage.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of ESBL-E carriage observed among peripartum women in Southeast-Asia and the identified associated factors underline the urgent need for public health measures to address antimicrobial resistance, including a ‘One Health’ approach.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Ketamine and Moderate Sedation for Outpatient Endoscopy in Adults
Authors: Edelson Jerome C , Edelson Cyrus V , Rockey Don C , Morales Amilcar L , Chung Kevin K , Robles Matthew J , Marowske Johanna H , Patel Anish A , Edelson Scott F. D , Subramanian Stalin R , Gancayco John G
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Ketamine is an effective sedative agent in a variety of settings due to its desirable properties including preservation of laryngeal reflexes and lack of cardiovascular depression. We hypothesized that ketamine is an effective alternative to standard moderate sedation (SMS) regimens for patients undergoing endoscopy.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing ketamine to SMS for outpatient colonoscopy or esophagogastroduodenoscopy at Brooke Army Medical Center. The ketamine group received a 1-mg dose of midazolam along with ketamine, whereas the SMS group received midazolam/fentanyl. The primary outcome was patient satisfaction measured using the Patient Satisfaction in Sedation Instrument, and secondary outcomes included changes in hemodynamics, time to sedation onset and recovery, and total medication doses.

Results

Thirty-three subjects were enrolled in each group. Baseline characteristics were similar. Endoscopies were performed for both diagnostic and screening purposes. Ketamine was superior in the overall sedation experience and in all analyzed categories compared to the SMS group (P = .0096). Sedation onset times and procedure times were similar among groups. The median ketamine dose was 75 mg. The median fentanyl and midazolam doses were 150 mcg and 5 mg, respectively, in SMS. Vital signs remained significantly closer to the physiological baseline in the ketamine group (P = .004). Recovery times were no different between the groups, and no adverse reactions were encountered.

Conclusions

Ketamine is preferred by patients, preserves hemodynamics better than SMS, and can be safely administered by endoscopists. Data suggest that ketamine is a safe and effective sedation option for patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy or colonoscopy (clinicaltrials.gov NCT03461718).