bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super-resolution imaging of mitochondrial cristae using a more hydrophobic far-red Si-rhodamine probe
Authors: Sun Jing , Ge Xichuan , Jin Boya , Li Shiyi , Hou Yiwei , Zhong Suyi , Yang Zikang , Xi Peng , Li Meiqi , Gao Baoxiang
Published: October 2023

Under super-resolution imaging conditions, this high hydrophobic far-red probe with a perfluoroalkyl chain revealed the changes clearly in mitochondrial cristae morphology during autophagy induced by starvation or apoptosis.
Interface design of the thermoelectric transport properties of phosphorene–tetrathiafulvalene nanoscale devices
Authors: Qiu Yifeng , Zhang Bei
Published: October 2023

S atoms can facilitate the out-of-plane electronic transport of TTF molecules.
Significant influence of water molecules on the SO3 + HCl reaction in the gas phase and at the air–water interface
Authors: Cheng Yang , Ding Chao , Wang Hui , Zhang Tianlei , Wang Rui , Muthiah Balaganesh , Xu Haitong , Zhang Qiang , Jiang Min
Published: October 2023

The products resulting from the reactions between atmospheric acids and SO3 have a catalytic effect on the formation of new particles in aerosols.
Two-dimensional AlB4/Al2B2: high-performance Dirac anode materials for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Zou Ru-Feng , Ye Xiao-Juan , Zheng Xiao-Hong , Jia Ran , Liu Chun-Sheng
Published: October 2023

Two-dimensional AlB4/Al2B2 as high-performance Dirac anode materials for sodium-ion batteries.
Dissecting the innate immune recognition of morphine and its metabolites by TLR4/MD2: an in silico simulation study
Authors: Zhang Xiaozheng , Li Ran , Xu Haoran , Wu Guicai , Wu Siru , Wang Hongshuang , Wang Yibo , Wang Xiaohui
Published: October 2023

TLR4/MD2 non-enantioselectively recognizes morphine isomers, but selectively recognizes glucuronide isomers (M3G and M6G) of morphine.
A super asymmetric cross antenna structure with tunable dual-frequency resonances
Authors: Xu Haiyan , Wang Jianping
Published: October 2023

Tuning dual-frequency resonance hot spots using a super asymmetric cross-antenna array.
π-Electronic ion pairs: building blocks for supramolecular nanoarchitectonics viaiπ–iπ interactions
Authors: Haketa Yohei , Yamasumi Kazuhisa , Maeda Hiromitsu
Published: October 2023

Ion pairs comprising π-electronic cations and anions, formed viaiπ–iπ interactions with synergetically worked electrostatic and dispersion forces, and their properties for potential applications as functional materials are summarized.
Inducing and monitoring mitochondrial pH changes with an iridium(iii) complex via two-photon lifetime imaging
Authors: Hu Meng , Zhou Xin-Lan , Xiao Tian-Xin , Hao Liang , Li Yi
Published: October 2023

A pH-responsive cyclometalated iridium(iii) complex has been explored to induce and monitor mitophagy simultaneously by two-photon phosphorescence lifetime imaging microscopy.
Sonochemical oxidation of technical lignin to obtain nanoparticles with enhanced functionality
Authors: Izaguirre Nagore , Fernández-Rodríguez Javier , Robles Eduardo , Labidi Jalel
Published: October 2023

Kraft lignin (KL) was treated by employing mild oxidation conditions enhanced by ultrasound irradiation (US) for obtaining more functionalized particles, avoiding the undesired side reactions of degradation and depolymerization.
Tunable upconversion in ZnAl2−xGaxO4:Er,Yb phosphors by modulating the Al/Ga ratio and application in optical thermometry
Authors: Parayil Reshmi Thekke , Gupta Santosh K. , Upadhyay Madan Murari , Sudarshan Kathi , Mohapatra Manoj
Published: October 2023

This work demonstrated the usability of spinel for a color tunable phosphor triggered by compositional modulation in Al/Ga ratio and laser power along with feasibility for non-contact optical thermometry.
The Effect of Several Rhizobacteria Consortia Formulation and Bacterial Density to the Growth and Yield of Five Maize Cultivars in Indonesia
Authors: Ikhwan Ali , Iriany Aniek , Ishartati Erny , Anwar Shazma , Hasanah Faridlotul
Published: October 2023

Maize is one of the important crop so production improvement is must be done to sufficient the needs. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria has become a feasible, efficient and sustainable approach to increase maize productivity. This study investigated the effect of several rhizobacteria consortia formulations and bacterial density on the growth and yield of five maize cultivars in Indonesia. The experiment was carried out using a nested-split plot randomized complete block design (RCBD). The treatments consisted of two rhizobacteria consortia formulation (granule and liquid) as nested, four rhizobacterial density (0, 107, 108, and 109 cfu mL–1) as main plot, and five maize cultivars (Bisi 18, Bisi 2, Pertiwi 3, Bisi 228, and Bisi 220) as subplot. The growth and yield data were analyzed through ANOVA and by means using DMRT α 5 % to determine the best treatment. Application of rhizobacteria consortia formulation on five maize varieties did significantly affect the growth and yield of maize although bacterial density did not showed the same results. Rhizobacteria consortia with granule formulation appeared significantly higher yield performance than liquid. Pertiwi 3 tended to produce higher average yield than other varieties for both rhizobacteria consortia formulation although the varieties did not significantly contribute on ear weight variables.
Roughness Study of Hydroxypropyl Cellulose Film Surface Loaded with Cinnamaldehyde/Lauric Arginate by Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Aditya Wardana Ata , Putri Wigati Laras , Rui Yan Xi , Ngwane Nkede Francis , Sultana Jothi Jakia , Tanaka Fumina , Tanaka Fumihiko
Published: October 2023

In this work, atomic force microscopy (AFM) technique was used to study the microstructure properties of hydroxypropylcellulose/ cinnamaldehyde (CDH) composite biofilm. The solution was emulsified by cationic surfactant, lauric arginate (LAE). Zetasizer analysis found that the addition of CDH-emulsified LAE increased the zeta potential of HPC-based solution from -1.31 to 10.47 (mV). Furthermore, the increasing trend was showed by the roughness of surface properties. AFM analysis revealed that the arithmetical mean deviation from the mean (Ra) and root mean square deviation from the mean (Rq) of HPC film surface enhanced by 1.7 nm and 3.63 nm respectively as addition of CDH-emulsified LAE. Any deformation in the surface properties of the biofilm might affect its barrier properties such as water resistance and light transmission.
Contribution of the Utilization of Non-Timber Forest Products to Farmers’ Income in Forest Management Unit
Authors: Gatut Prakosa Galit , Ramadhan Ramli , Irvan Muhammad , Mukti Rahayu Erni , Chanan Mochamad , Chekmae Sareef
Published: October 2023

Forest Village Community Organizations (Lembaga Masyarakat Desa Hutan - LDMH) Samudro Wonoasri and LMDH Tangkil Indah is an institution in partnership with Perhutani that has utilized the potential of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) in plots 66A and plots 46B. This study aims to determine the contribution of NTFPs to farmers’ income in both locations (plots). Data collection on respondents was carried out using a comprehensive census technique. The total number of research respondents was 180 people, with 85 farmers in plot 66A RPH (Resor Pengelolaan Hutan - Forest Management Resort) Sumberkembang and 95 farmers in plot 46B RPH Lebakharjo. The results showed three dominant types of non-timber forest products used by farmers, namely coffee, cloves, and bananas. Meanwhile, the contribution of NTFPs to the average income yr-1 of farmers in the 66A RPH Sumberkembang plot is 79.07 %. The contribution of NTFPs to farmers’ average income yr-1 in the 46B RPH Lebakharjo plot obtained a percentage of 93.58 %. The average income yr-1 for all farmers in both locations (plots) of the study shows that NTFPs contribute significantly to the economy and that all farmers are highly dependent on the presence of non-timber forest products (NTFPs).
Management of Agroforestry and Water Resources Towards Socio-economic Conditions of the Community, Case on Gubugklakah, Poncokusumo, Malang, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Triwanto Joko , Tri Waskitho Nugroho , Faranis Yesmika , Eichiro Nakama
Published: October 2023

The dependence of the community around the forest area on utilizing natural resources is dangerous for the sustainability of the forest area. The research aimed to determine the effect of the management of agroforestry, water resources conservation, and drinking water supply system on the socio-economic conditions of the Gubugklakah community. The study was conducted from January to March 2020 in Gubugklakah, Poncokusumo, Malang district, East Java, Indonesia. Data collection with a Likert scale questionnaire with 100 forest farmers as respondents. The variables consist of agroforestry management, conservation of water resources, drinking water supply system, and socio-economic condition of the community. Data were analyzed using by Structural Equation Model. Data analysis shows that agroforestry management influences the socioeconomic state with a 0.45 path coefficient, the drinking water supply system controls the socio-economic condition with a 0.44 path coefficient, and water resource conservation influences the socio-economic situation with a 0.15 path coefficient. The research concluded that the management of agroforestry and drinking water supply systems affect the socio-economic conditions of the Gubugklakah community, and water resources conservation did not affect the socio-economic conditions of the Gubugklakah community.
Analysis of Mastitis Cases on Modern Dairy Farms in Blitar Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Zalizar Lili , Hendraningsih Listiari , Hidayati Asmah , Sutawi Sutawi , Wijayanto Wijayanto , Mariyam Dewi , Rahmaita Utarid Irma , Dharmawan Rachmad , Yaro Abubakar
Published: October 2023

This study aims to determine: i) the relationship between lactation level and clinical mastitis, ii) bacteria that cause clinical mastitis and iii) the incidence rate of the disease based on Days in Milk (DIM). The research location was carried out at a modern dairy farm in Blitar Regency, Indonesia. Clinical mastitis dairy divided into nine lactation periods including: lactation period (LP) 1 (168 heads); LP 2 (224 heads); LP 3 (153 heads); LP 4 (102 heads); LP 5 (51 heads); LP 6 (14 heads); LP 7 (7 heads); LP 8 (1 head); LP 9 (3 heads). Data were analyzed using simple regression and descriptive analysis. There was a linear increase in the percentage of mastitis incidence at the lactation period in modern dairy farm, y = 1.9483x + 14.938 following R² = 0.2315. The worst incidence occurred during the sixth lactation (43.75 %). Streptococcus uberis was identified as the most common bacteria causing mastitis (55.19 %). The highest incidence of mastitis occurred in Days in Milk (DIM) > 150 d (48.55 %), followed by DIM < 75 d (21.44 %). Furthermore, the second lactation with DIM > 150 d (15.63 %) had the greatest mastitis incidence.
Characterization and Relationship Analysis of Various Genotypes of Collection Jatropha curcas L. Results of Crosses Based on Leaf Morphology
Authors: Maftuchah Maftuchah , Zainudin Agus , Dani Septia Erfan , Nur Sya’bani Andhika , Ardana Reswari Helvi , Soni Peeyush , Sulistiyanto Hendry
Published: October 2023

Jatropha (Jatropha curcas L.) is a shrub that is easy to grow. This plant has many benefits including as a raw material for biodiesel and has the potential to be developed into a future energy source. This study aims to determine the kinship hybrid numbers based on morphology. The experiment was conducted in Krajan hamlet, Kedung Pengaron village, Kejayen sub-district, Pasuruan district, East Java province. The material genetic used in this study is hybrid number 5 (SP-8 × SP-16), 6 (SP-8 × SP-38), 7 (SP-33 × HS-49), and 18 (SM-35 × SP-38). Observations were made on leaf morphology with scoring, percentage and Munsel Color Chart based on reference Sunil et al. The results showed that there was no difference between the four genotypes of the crosses tested on all leave morphology character except leaf angles on the main branch, percentage of leaf blade, leaf color, color of upper surface leaf bone, leaf green intensity, intensity of anthocyanin staining, corners of leaves, leaf scatter color, and young leaf color. Cluster analysis based on leaves morphological character showed that the J. curcas genotypes could be grouped into four clusters at cophenhetic distance of 0.6.
Design and Performance Test of Multi Intake Foods Product Cutting Machine
Authors: Alfian Mizar Muhammad , Zakaria Mohammad Nasir Mohd , Trifiananto Muhammad , Hardiatama Intan
Published: October 2023

Appropriate technology is one of the answers to support small and medium enterprises in the sustainability of their business production. This research aims to design and test the performance of multi-intake food product cutting machines, this cutting machine can be applied to cutting food products such as tempeh, crackers, fruits, or tubers. This machine is called multi intake because it can cut more than one material at the same time and produce more cuts in a relatively short time. This machine is equipped with an automatic propulsion system that can produce pieces of uniform thickness. The results showed that the construction of a multi-intake cutting machine for cutting food ingredients in the form of tempeh has a capacity of 120 kg h-1 to 173.5 kg h-1, the most optimal performance of the cutting machine for foodstuffs and can increase the capacity and quality of the stripping results achieved in the use of an electric motor with power 375 Watt with engine shaft rotation (n) = 327 rad s-1 and a thrust speed of 0.370 cm s-1 which can produce a cutting capacity of 173.5 kg h-1 with intact, not defective, and flat cut quality.
Policies and Models of Agribusiness Development of Cassava in North Sumatera
Authors: Krisdiana Ruly , Noerwiyati Kartika , Mejaya I Made Jana , Ismu Wisnubroto Erwin , Ngoc Huu Nguyen
Published: October 2023

North Sumatera is one of cassava production center areas in Indonesia which produces 30 t ha-1 in average, planted by farmers by simple way. The cassava is used mostly for materials of starch industry, while certain cassava is used for processed food products in household industry. In order to optimize the role of cassava commodity in economics, it is required strategic planning which examines policy and development model of cassava agribusiness in North Sumatera. The research method used in this study is Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to farmers, traders/collectors, craftsman, and factories and household industry. It was held in 2016 and 2018 in Simalungun, Pematang Siantar, and Toba Samosir district. The result shows that implementation of policy related to utilization of superior varieties cassava as industrial raw materials for starch, cassava varieties for food materials, and utilization of cassava production technology is required. Afterwards, agroindustry sector requires implementation of policies such as policy of business scale optimization, maximization of business profit, effective technology utilization for processing industry, promotion, and product dissemination. Cassava agribusiness development model requires implementation of industrial types classification (upstream and downstream) in a linked partnership system which sustainable and continuous.
Verification of PO2 Temperature Correction Factor during Hypothermic Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Camerlengo Leon J. , Dearing James P. , Sade Robert M.
Published: October 2023

This study quantitatively investigates two methods of temperature correcting P02 values during hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. The magnitude of error associated with the linear temperature correction technique increased steadily with decreasing blood temperature, whereas the Kelman-Nunn correction technique closely estimated the reference PO2 in all cases.
Coronary Artery Graft Flow During N onpulsatile and Pulsatile Extracorporeal Perfusion
Authors: Laaksonen Veikko O. , Meretoja Ollli A. , Arola Matti K. , Lnberg Markku V. , Lrjala Jukka K. , Vanttinen Esko
Published: October 2023

We found no differences either in the mean or in the peak graft flows during pulsatile and nonpulsatile artificial perfusion, but during pulsatile supportive perfusion the instantaneous graft flow tended to increase towards the end of the diastole—as in a spontaneously beating heart—whereas nonpulsatile perfusion generated maximum graft flow at the beginning of the diastole. The combined influence of the techniques used and patients’ well-being on the graft flows is discussed. Pulsatile perfusion may reduce the duration of the partial and total supportive perfusion in coronary bypass surgery.
Information sharing strategy for an incumbent retailer in a closed-loop supply chain
Authors: Cai Keyuan , Yin Qianjiang , Huang Dali
Published: October 2023

This paper considers a closed-loop supply chain with a manufacturer, an incumbent retailer and an entrant retailer. The two retailers order the same products from the common manufacturer and then sell to consumers, and the incumbent retailer possesses private forecast information with respect to the uncertain demand. The incumbent retailer could strategically share its forecast information to make great profits. We find that, when the incumbent retailer shares the information with its upstream manufacturer, the entrant retailer benefits from this information sharing arrangement because of the information leakage effect. However, the incumbent retailer will be motived to share the information with the manufacturer only when the manufacturer is highly efficient in collection investment. To achieve information sharing, the research results show that, the manufacturer and the entrant retailer should pay the incumbent retailer for the demand information if the investment efficiency of the manufacturer meets certain conditions.
Education loan repayment: a systematic literature review
Authors: Bhandary Rakshith , Shenoy Sandeep S. , Shetty Ankitha , Shetty Adithya D.
Published: October 2023

Education is a significant contributor to human capital. Financial assistance for education through institutional loan serves as the key element for human development, and loan repayment without default makes the education loan product self-sustainable. The systematic review aims to study the various articles related to education loan repayment (ELR) using bibliometric analysis approach and R studio software with the help of biblioshiny package. The study analyses 812 articles published in the Scopus database between 1990 and 2022. The review identifies most relevant authors, most cited articles, publication trends, keywords and themes, and trending topics. The review finds that research in the domain of ELR is at an increasing trend with a growth rate of 7.2% and, in the year 2022, the highest number of scientific publications, that is, 72 articles, was published. The review exhibits that existing research in the field has mainly focused on themes such as repayment burden, financial literacy, financial education, student debt, income, mental health, and loan defaults. The study concludes that highly cited work in educational loan repayment is in the field of medicine, highlighting salary as the key factor for educational loan repayment, and loan repayment is incentivized by the federal government to serve the designated underserved areas through service option loan repayment programs. Methods on designing and marketing new approaches to loan repayment can be researched in future with relation to human resource recruitment and retention by the employers.
Streamlining neural signal detection for improved bladder control prostheses
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: October 2023

Using an intraneural electrode as a sensor could enable more effective closed-loop neuroprosthetic treatments for urinary tract dysfunctions.
Microfluidics offer solutions for engineering drug-delivering nanoparticles
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: October 2023

Lipid nanoparticles have many advantages that make them ideal drug carriers, and manufacturing them can be easier with advanced microfluidic techniques.
Synthesis and characterization of XeAr2 under high pressure
Authors: Wang Mengnan , Kuzovnikov Mikhail A. , Binns Jack , Li Xiaofeng , Peña-Alvarez Miriam , Hermann Andreas , Gregoryanz Eugene , Howie Ross T.
Published: October 2023

The binary Xe–Ar system has been studied in a series of high pressure diamond anvil cell experiments up to 60 GPa at 300 K. In-situ x-ray powder diffraction and Raman spectroscopy indicate the formation of a van der Waals compound, XeAr2, at above 3.5 GPa. Powder x-ray diffraction analysis demonstrates that XeAr2 adopts a Laves MgZn2-type structure with space group P63/mmc and cell parameters a = 6.595 Å and c = 10.716 Å at 4 GPa. Density functional theory calculations support the structure determination, with agreement between experimental and calculated Raman spectra. Our DFT calculations suggest that XeAr2 would remain stable without a structural transformation or decomposition into elemental Xe and Ar up to at least 80 GPa.
Comparison of classical and ab initio simulations of hydronium and aqueous proton transfer
Authors: Maurer Manuela , Lazaridis Themis
Published: October 2023

Proton transport in aqueous systems occurs by making and breaking covalent bonds, a process that classical force fields cannot reproduce. Various attempts have been made to remedy this deficiency, by valence bond theory or instantaneous proton transfers, but the ability of such methods to provide a realistic picture of this fundamental process has not been fully evaluated. Here we compare an ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulation of an excess proton in water to a simulation of a classical H3O+ in TIP3P water. The energy gap upon instantaneous proton transfer from H3O+ to an acceptor water molecule is much higher in the classical simulation than in the AIMD configurations evaluated with the same classical potential. The origins of this discrepancy are identified by comparing the solvent structures around the excess proton in the two systems. One major structural difference is in the tilt angle of the water molecules that accept an hydrogen bond from H3O+. The lack of lone pairs in TIP3P produces a tilt angle that is too large and generates an unfavorable geometry after instantaneous proton transfer. This problem can be alleviated by the use of TIP5P, which gives a tilt angle much closer to the AIMD result. Another important factor that raises the energy gap is the different optimal distance in water-water vs H3O+-water H-bonds. In AIMD the acceptor is gradually polarized and takes a hydronium-like configuration even before proton transfer actually happens. Ways to remedy some of these problems in classical simulations are discussed.
Teaching-learning dynamics between schools and tutoring centres in India: a virtuous or vicious cycle? (Las dinámicas de enseñanza-aprendizaje en los centros escolares y los centros de tutorías privadas en la India: ¿ciclo virtuoso o ciclo vicioso?)
Authors: Bhorkar Shalini
Published: October 2023

Unpacking the linkages between mainstream education and private tutoring is fundamental for advancing knowledge on tutoring’s implications for learners and systems of learning. This paper explores the micro-processes of teaching-learning at schools and tutoring centres to provide a nuanced understanding of the dynamics between them, in the context of India. Using qualitative data from lesson observations, interviews and focus group discussions with 85 participants, the paper explicates the teaching-learning processes in these two settings. The findings and analysis illuminate how actors in one setting shape their responses based on their perceptions of the other, thus influencing their pedagogical practices. The cyclic nature of the resulting dynamics highlights the negative implications for mainstream education in terms of undermining the implementation of progressive pedagogical reforms and inhibiting the need for systemic interventions to resolve incongruities and misalignments within the larger education system. This could result in a potentially vicious feedback loop. The non-binary exploration of this feedback loop has wider global relevance in terms of the nuances added to the theme of private tutoring’s negative outcomes.
Convexification for the viscocity solution for a coefficient inverse problem for the radiative transfer equation
Authors: Klibanov Michael V , Li Jingzhi , Yang Zhipeng
Published: October 2023

A coefficient inverse problem for the radiative transport equation is considered. The globally convergent numerical method, the so-called convexification, is developed. For the first time, the viscosity solution is considered for a boundary value problem for the resulting system of two coupled partial differential equations. A Lipschitz stability estimate is proved for this boundary value problem using a Carleman estimate for the Laplace operator. Next, the global convergence analysis is provided via that Carleman estimate. Results of numerical experiments demonstrate a high computational efficiency of this approach.
Fault detection and localization in unshielded twisted pair cable based on observability analysis and reflectometry experimental measurements
Authors: Idellette Judith Hermine Som , Cocquempot Vincent , Degardin Virginie
Published: October 2023

In this paper, an efficient method is proposed for detecting and locating a soft fault, i.e. a physical degradation, in a Y-shaped network of unshielded twisted pair cables. The method uses jointly the observability analysis and time-frequency domain reflectometry experimental measurements. The fault detection consists in checking the consistency between the known characteristics of the cable under no-fault and faulty conditions, with the maximum value of a normalized time-frequency cross-correlation function computed on a sliding time window whose length is equal to the boundary exact observability time. The cable transmission speed and the wired network observability time are combined to locate precisely the fault. Soft faults are artificially created by connecting resistors of different values to the test cable. Experimental results show the efficiency of our fault detection and localization method.
Energy in critical collapse
Authors: Hu Yu , Guo Jun-Qi , Li Junbin , Shao Cheng-Gang , Zhang Hongsheng
Published: October 2023

We study the energy issue in critical collapse. It is found that in critical collapse, the contribution from the material energy is greater than that from the gravitational energy. The quantitym/rplays an important role in identifying the formation of an apparent horizon in gravitational collapse, wheremis the Misner–Sharp mass andr is the areal radius. We observe that in critical collapse, the maximum value ofm/rfluctuates between 2/15 and 4/15. This denotes a large gap between critical collapse and black hole formation for which the criterion ism/r= 1/2.
One-dimensional run-and-tumble motions with generic boundary conditions
Authors: Angelani Luca
Published: October 2023

The motion of run-and-tumble particles in one-dimensional finite domains are analyzed in the presence of generic boundary conditions. These describe accumulation at walls, where particles can either be absorbed at a given rate, or tumble, with a rate that may be, in general, different from that in the bulk. This formulation allows us to treat in a unified way very different boundary conditions (fully and partially absorbing/reflecting, sticky, sticky-reactive and sticky-absorbing boundaries) which can be recovered as appropriate limits of the general case. We report the general expression of the mean exit time, valid for generic boundaries, discussing many case studies, from equal boundaries to more interesting cases of different boundary conditions at the two ends of the domain, resulting in nontrivial expressions of mean exit times.
Tofacitinib for Patients with Anti-TNF Refractory Ulcerative Proctitis: A Multicentre Cohort Study from the GETAID
Authors: Uzzan Mathieu , Nachury Maria , Nuzzo Alexandre , Amiot Aurélien , Caron Bénédicte , Benezech Alban , Buisson Anthony , Bouguen Guillaume , Le Berre Catherine , Reenaers Catherine , Le Cosquer Guillaume , Savoye Guillaume , Charkaoui Maeva , Vidon Mathias , Guillo Lucas , Fumery Mathurin , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Kirchgesner Julien , Bouhnik Yoram ,   GETAID TOFA-PRO study group, Fumery Mathurin , Yzet Clara , Brazier Franck , Billiauws Lore , Bouhnik Yoram , Nuzzo Alexandre , Amiot Aurélien , Carbonnel Franck , Bresteau Clément , Meyer Antoine , Bellanger Christophe , Nachury Maria , Wils Pauline , Desreumaux Pierre , Branche Julien , Gérard Romain , Assaraf Julie , Gagnière Charlotte , Uzzan Mathieu , Beaugerie Laurent , Sokol Harry , Seksik Philippe , Bourrier Anne , Kirchgesner Julien , McLellan Paul , Le Cosquer Guillaume , Gilletta Cyrielle , Caron Bénédicte , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Guilmoteau Thomas , Dodel Marie , Coban Dilek , Bouhnik Yoram , Cohen Mathilde , Treton Xavier , Guillo Lucas , Serrero Mélanie
Published: October 2023

Background

Although ulcerative proctitis [UP] can dramatically impair quality of life, treatment efficacy has been poorly investigated in UP as it was historically excluded from phase 2/3 randomised controlled trials in ulcerative colitis. Our aim was to assess the effectiveness and safety of tofacitinib for the treatment of UP.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, multicentre study in 17 GETAID centres, including consecutive patients with UP treated with tofacitinib. The primary endpoint was steroid-free remission between Week 8 and Week 14, defined as a partial Mayo score of 2 [and no individual subscore above 1]. Secondary outcomes included clinical response and steroid-free remission after induction and at 1 year.

Results

All the 35 enrolled patients previously received anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] therapy and 88.6% were exposed to at least two lines of biologics. At baseline, the median partial Mayo score was 7 (intequartile range [IQR] [5.5-7]). After induction [W8-W14], 42.9% and 60.0% of patients achieved steroid-free remission and clinical response, respectively. At 1 year, the steroid-free clinical remission and clinical response rates were 39.4% and 45.5%, respectively, and 51.2% [17/33] were still receiving tofacitinib treatment. Survival without tofacitinib withdrawal was estimated at 50.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] [35.5-71.6]) at 1 year. Only a lower partial Mayo at baseline was independently associated with remission at induction (0dds ratio [OR] = 0.56 for an increase of 1, (95% CI [0.33-0.95], p = 0.03). Five [14.3%] adverse events were reported, with one leading to treatment withdrawal [septic shock secondary to cholecystitis].

Conclusion

Tofacitinib may offer a therapeutic option for patients with refractory UP.
In vitro regulation of fibroblast growth factor 23 by 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D synthesized by osteocyte-like MC3T3-E1 cells
Authors: Ratsma Danielle M A , Muller Max , Koedam Marijke , Zillikens M Carola , van der Eerden Bram C J
Published: October 2023

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is produced and secreted by osteocytes and is essential for maintaining phosphate homeostasis. One of the main regulators of FGF23, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D3), is primarily synthesized in the kidney from 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) by 1α-hydroxylase (encoded by CYP27B1). Hitherto, it is unclear whether osteocytes can convert 25(OH)D and thereby allow for 1,25(OH)2D3 to induce FGF23 production and secretion locally. Here, we differentiated MC3T3-E1 cells toward osteocyte-like cells expressing and secreting FGF23. Treatment with 10−6 M 25(OH)D resulted in conversion of 25(OH)D to 150 pmol/L 1,25(OH)2D3 and increased FGF23 expression and secretion, but the converted amount of 1,25(OH)2D3 was insufficient to trigger an FGF23 response, so the effect on FGF23 was most likely directly caused by 25(OH)D. Interestingly, combining phosphate with 25(OH)D resulted in a synergistic increase in FGF23 expression and secretion, likely due to activation of additional signaling pathways by phosphate. Blockage of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) only partially abolished the effects of 25(OH)D or 25(OH)D combined with phosphate on Fgf23, while completely inhibiting the upregulation of cytochrome P450 family 24 subfamily A member 1 (Cyp24a1), encoding for 24-hydroxylase. RNA sequencing and in silico analyses showed that this could potentially be mediated by the nuclear receptors Retinoic Acid Receptor β (RARB) and Estrogen Receptor 2 (ESR2). Taken together, we demonstrate that osteocytes are able to convert 25(OH)D to 1,25(OH)2D3, but this is insufficient for FGF23 activation, implicating a direct effect of 25(OH)D in the regulation of FGF23, which occurs at least partially independent from its cognate VDR. Moreover, phosphate and 25(OH)D synergistically increase expression and secretion of FGF23, which warrants investigating consequences in patients receiving a combination of vitamin D analogues and phosphate supplements. These observations help us to further understand the complex relations between phosphate, vitamin D, and FGF23.
The lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary structure at 11–21 Ma from wide-angle seismic data in the equatorial Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Vaddineni Venkata A , Singh Satish C
Published: October 2023

The lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary (LAB) separates the rigid lithospheric plate above with the ductile and convective asthenosphere below and plays a fundamental role in plate tectonic processes. The LAB has been imaged using passive geophysical methods, but these methods only provide low-resolution images. Recently, seismic reflection imaging method has provided high-resolution images of the LAB, but imaging of the LAB at younger ages has been difficult. Here, we present the image of the LAB using wide-angle seismic reflection data covering 11–21 Ma old lithosphere in the equatorial Atlantic Ocean. Using ocean bottom seismometers (OBSs), we have observed wide-angle reflections between 150 and 400 km offsets along with crustal and mantle refraction arrivals. We first performed traveltime tomography to obtain the velocity in the crust and upper mantle. The Pn arrivals provide the information about P-wave velocity down to 4 km below the Moho. The disappearance of Pn arrivals beyond 130 km offset suggests that vertical P-wave velocity gradient is negligible or negative below this depth. We extended these velocities down to 90 km depth and then applied two imaging techniques to wide-angle reflection data, namely traveltime mapping of picked reflection arrivals and pre-stack depth migration of full wavefield data. We find that these reflections originate between 34 and 67 km depth, possibly from the LAB system. We have carried out extensive modelling to show that these reflections are real and not artefacts of imaging. Comparison of our results with coincident passive seismological and magnetotelluric results suggests that wide-angle imaging technique can be successfully used to study the lithosphere and the LAB system. We find that the LAB gradually deepens with age, but becomes very deep at 17–19 Ma, which we interpret to be due to the anomalous geology along this part of the profile.
Cultural and translation challenges in assessing health literacy among immigrants from the former Soviet Union
Authors: Shaw Susan J , Huebner Torres Cristina , Lee Jeannie K , Gavrilyuk Dina , Korchmaros Josephine D
Published: October 2023

Health literacy is an important foundation for health promotion and an under-recognized risk factor for immigrant and refugee groups. Yet measuring health literacy among diverse ethnic and linguistic populations presents complex challenges. We describe cultural and translation challenges encountered in measuring health literacy among Russian-speaking immigrants to the USA and offer a mixed-methods approach to understanding them. The Rx-Health Literacy (RxHL) study used cross-sectional quantitative and qualitative data to examine health literacy and medication adherence among five cultural and four language groups (Latinx, Vietnamese, African-American, Russian-speaking immigrant and White American) who are patients at Caring Health Center, a federally qualified health center in Springfield, MA. We translated an existing health literacy scale into Russian and Vietnamese and examined item difficulty across cultural groups. We conducted qualitative cognitive interviews to learn more about Russian speakers’ understandings of the scale. Health literacy scores varied by cultural group, and the range of correct responses was much greater among Russian speakers than in other groups. Percentage correct varied by 69.7% for Russian speakers, compared with 25.0–44.0% for other groups. These findings indicate greater variability in health literacy levels among this group compared with others. Cognitive interviews with Russian-speaking participants revealed multiple interpretations of several items, suggesting that the English version of the scale contained embedded meanings associated with an American health care context that were not captured in the translated instrument. Combining qualitative and quantitative research methods allows for greater insight into contextual and translation factors that may shape the results of translated instruments in unanticipated ways.
Defining standard and high dosages for β-lactam agents administered by intermittent, prolonged or continuous infusion: a PK/PD simulation study
Authors: Goutelle Sylvain , Jullien Vincent , Bru Jean-Pierre , Cattoir Vincent , Gauzit Rémy , Lesprit Philippe , Lina Gérard , Schramm Frédéric , Canoui Etienne , Lepeule Raphael
Published: October 2023

Background

The new definitions of antimicrobial susceptibility categories proposed by EUCAST in 2020 require the definition of standard and high dosages of antibiotic. For injectable β-lactams, standard and high dosages have been proposed for short-infusion regimens only.

Objectives

To evaluate dosages for β-lactams administered by prolonged infusion (PI) and continuous infusion (CI).

Methods

Monte Carlo simulations were performed for seven injectable β-lactams: aztreonam, cefepime, cefotaxime, cefoxitin, ceftazidime, piperacillin and temocillin. Various dosage regimens based on short infusion, PI or CI were simulated in virtual patients. Pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles and PTAs were obtained based on reference population PK models, as well as PK/pharmacodynamic targets and MIC breakpoints proposed by EUCAST. Alternative dosage regimens associated with PTA values similar to those of recommended dosages up to the breakpoints were considered acceptable.

Results

Adequate PTAs were confirmed for most EUCAST short-infusion dosage regimens. A total of 9 standard and 14 high dosages based on PI (3 to 4 h) or CI were identified as alternatives. For cefepime and aztreonam, only PI and CI regimens could achieve acceptable PTAs for infections caused by Pseudomonas spp.: 2 g q8h as PI of 4 h or 6 g/24 h CI for cefepime; 2 g q6h as PI of 3 h or 6 g/24 h CI for aztreonam.

Conclusions

These alternative standard and high dosage regimens are expected to provide antibiotic exposure compatible with new EUCAST definitions of susceptibility categories and associated MIC breakpoints. However, further clinical evaluation is necessary.
Dietary glycine supplementation enhances the growth performance of hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis ♀× Morone chrysops ♂) fed soybean meal-based diets
Authors: Li Xinyu , He Wenliang , Wu Guoyao
Published: October 2023

This study was conducted to test the hypothesis that supplementing 1% and 2% glycine to soybean meal (SBM)-based diets can improve the growth performance of juvenile hybrid striped bass (HSB). The basal diets contained 15% fishmeal and 58% SBM (DM basis). Alanine was used as the isonitrogenous control in different diets. All diets contained 44% crude protein and 10% lipids (DM basis). There were four tanks (15 fish per tank) per dietary group, with the mean of the initial body weight (BW) of fish being 5.3 g. Fish were fed to apparent satiation twice daily, and their BW was recorded every 2 wk. The trial lasted for 8 wk. Results indicated that the BW, weight gain, protein efficiency ratio, and retention of dietary lipids in fish were enhanced (P < 0.05) by dietary supplementation with 1% or 2% glycine. In addition, dietary supplementation with glycine did not affect (P > 0.05) the feed intake of fish but increased (P < 0.05) the retention of dietary nitrogen, most amino acids, and phosphorus in the body, compared to the 0% glycine group. Dietary supplementation with 1% and 2% glycine dose-dependently augmented (P < 0.05) the villus height of the proximal intestine and reduced the submucosal thickness of the gut, while preventing submucosal and lamina propria hemorrhages. Compared with the 0% glycine group, dietary supplementation with 1% or 2% glycine decreased (P < 0.05) the proportion of skeletal-muscle fibers with diameters of 40 to 60 µm but increased (P < 0.05) the proportion of skeletal-muscle fibers with diameters of 80 to 100 µm and > 100 µm. Collectively, these findings indicate that glycine in SBM-based diets is inadequate for maximum growth of juvenile HSB and that dietary supplementation with 1% or 2% glycine is required to improve their weight gain and feed efficiency. Glycine is a conditionally essential amino acid for this fish.
Phylogenetic analyses of Reticulitermes (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) from California and other western states: multiple genes confirm undescribed species identified by cuticular hydrocarbons
Authors: Tseng Shu-Ping , Nelson Lori J , Hubble Casey W , Sutherland Andrew M , Haverty Michael I , Lee Chow-Yang
Published: October 2023

Subterranean termites in the genus Reticulitermes Holmgren 1913 are among the most economically important wood-destroying pests in the western United States. Yet, there remains uncertainty regarding the taxonomy and biology of the species in this genus. The 2 species described as having distributions in this region are the western subterranean termite, Reticulitermes hesperus Banks, and the arid land subterranean termite, Reticulitermes tibialis Banks. Taxonomic studies utilizing cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles, agonistic behavior, flight phenology, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) suggested that R. hesperus is a species complex comprised of 2 or more sympatric, yet reproductively isolated species. To further delineate these taxa, we examined multiple genes from samples of Reticulitermes collected in the western United States. Alates collected after recent spring and fall mating flights, as well as previously collected workers, were subjected to CHC phenotyping and DNA sequence analyses that targeted mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit II (COII), mitochondrial 16S rRNA, and nuclear Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 and 2 (ITS1 and 2). Phylogenetic analyses conducted also included published sequences of other putative western Reticulitermes species. Results suggest that at least 5 species of Reticulitermes may be present in California and that Reticulitermes in Arizona consistently group into multiple clades, including samples previously identified as R. tibialis in a sister clade. These analyses further support the species status of qualitatively different CHC phenotypes and that alates swarming in spring vs. fall are reproductively isolated species.
Uncharted Interplay and Troubled Implementation: Managing Hydropower’s Environmental Impacts under the EU Water Framework and Environmental Liability Directives
Authors: Pihalehto Mari , Puharinen Suvi-Tuuli
Published: October 2023

The wide-ranging adverse changes caused by hydropower in freshwater ecosystems call for implementing environmental responsibility on the part of the hydropower sector. This article analyses the interplay between the two key EU legal instruments in this respect: the revision of out-dated hydropower permits required under the EU Water Framework Directive and operator liability for water damage under the Environmental Liability Directive. To complement this analysis, the article provides a concrete example of the two directives’ combined framework, or at least its multiple implementation challenges, using the specific case of one Member State; Finland. The article concludes that, although the two instruments have the potential to offer a rather powerful framework for environmental responsibility, realising this policy aspiration may be seriously undermined by problems in implementation. The insights presented call attention to the applicable means on both national as well as EU levels to rectify the situation.
Monitoring the young planet host V1298 Tau with SPIRou: planetary system and evolving large-scale magnetic field
Authors: Finociety B , Donati J-F , Cristofari P I , Moutou C , Cadieux C , Cook N J , Artigau E , Baruteau C , Debras F , Fouqué P , Bouvier J , Alencar S H P , Delfosse X , Grankin K , Carmona A , Petit P , Kóspál Á ,   the SLS/SPICE consortium
Published: October 2023

We report results of a spectropolarimetric monitoring of the young Sun-like star V1298 Tau based on data collected with the near-infrared spectropolarimeter SPIRou at the Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope between late 2019 and early 2023. Using Zeeman–Doppler Imaging and the Time-dependent Imaging of Magnetic Stars methods on circularly polarized spectra, we reconstructed the large-scale magnetic topology of the star (and its temporal evolution), found to be mainly poloidal and axisymmetric with an average strength varying from 90 to 170 G over the ∼3.5 yr of monitoring. The magnetic field features a dipole whose strength evolves from 85 to 245 G, and whose inclination with respect to the stellar rotation axis remains stable until 2023 where we observe a sudden change, suggesting that the field may undergo a polarity reversal, potentially similar to those periodically experienced by the Sun. Our data suggest that the differential rotation shearing the surface of V1298 Tau is about 1.5 times stronger than that of the Sun. When coupling our data with previous photometric results from K2 and TESS and assuming circular orbits for all four planets, we report a 3.9σ detection of the radial velocity signature of the outermost planet (e), associated with a most probable mass, density, and orbital period of $M_\mathrm{e}=0.95^{+0.33}_{-0.24}$ MꝜ, $\rho _\mathrm{e}=1.66^{+0.61}_{-0.48}$$\rm g\, cm^{-3}$, and Pe = 53.0039 ± 0.0001 d, respectively. For the three inner planets, we only derive 99 per cent confidence upper limits on their mass of 0.44, 0.22, and 0.25 MꝜ, for b, c, and d, respectively.