bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profile of secondary metabolites of Citrus hystrix DC from several solvents and its potential as an antibacterial substance
Authors: Anggraeny Y N , Setiasih S , Puspito S , Widodo S , Wardi W , Prihandini P W , Antonius A , Istiqomah N , Haryanto B , Kurniawati A , Muhlisin M , Prihartini I , Ramsiati D T , Wulansari W I , Indriatie R
Published: January 2024

Exploration of antibacterial activity from various herbs like Citrus species can become the solution for reducing emergency resistance antimicrobial. In this study, the secondary metabolite profiles of kaffir lime leaves extract (Citrus hystrix DC) were explored, which were obtained from several solvents that have potential as antibacterial agents. Extraction of kaffir lime leaves was carried out using 96% ethanol, n-hexane, and ethyl acetate, with the comparison between simplicia and solvent was 1:5. Profile metabolites secondary observed in the study were total phenol content, total flavonoids content, saponins, tannins and antioxidants activity. Extraction of kaffir lime leaves using 96% ethanol, n-hexane, and ethyl acetate produced extract yields of 5.28%, 0.94, 1.72% respectively. The highest content of flavonoids, phenols, and tannins was from the extract of kaffir lime leaves using 96% ethanol that was which is 65.02 (mg equivalent quercetin / g extract), 4.94 (% w/w) and 3.51 (% w/w). The highest content of saponins on kaffir lime leaves extracts from hexane was 10.67 (% w/w). The best antioxidant activity was from the extract of kaffir lime leaves using 96% ethanol which was 21.81 (IC 50) (μg/mL). Kaffir lime leaves ethanol extract showed high total phenol, flavonoid, tannin content as well as high antioxidant activity.
Quality of yogurt produced from various types of milk as raw materials
Authors: Setyawardani T , Sumarmono J , Rahardjo A H D , Arkan N D , Fadhlurrohman I
Published: January 2024

Different types of milk are used to make yogurt, which gives it different qualities. Fresh milk, powdered milk, low-fat milk, non-fat milk, and Ultra High Temperature (UHT) milk all have different qualities. The goal of the study was to look at the chemical, physical, and sensory properties of yogurt made from different ingredients. The treatment’s base materials were P1: yogurt made with fresh milk, P2: yogurt made with milk powder, P3: yogurt made with ultra-high-temperature milk, P4: yogurt made with low-fat milk, and P5: yogurt made with non-fat milk. Commercial yogurt starters were used to make yogurt, and each treatment was done four times. Other tests were done with Duncan. The factors for the study are the amount of moisture, total solids, pH, total titratable acidity, and how it tastes. The results showed that the moisture content, total solids, pH, and total titratable acidity were all significantly different (P<0.05), as were the taste and preferences. The results of the study show that yogurt with different ingredients has different qualities.
Fatty acid profiles and cholesterol of muscovy duck meats supplemented with cellulase, carnitine and fish oil
Authors: Sudibya S , Salsabila S , Rusdiyana E , Utomo S B , Siswanto B
Published: January 2024

This present study was carried out to investigate the inclusion effect of carnitine, cellulase, and fish oil on fatty acids composition and cholesterol level of Muscovy duck eggs. A total of 120 Muscovy ducks in laying period were utilized and assigned into 4 dietary treatments, 5 replicates consisting of 6 ducks each, receiving treatments for 90 days. Experimental groups composed of T0 = basal ration, T1 = T0 supplemented with 0,1% cellulase, T2 = T1 supplemented with L-carnitine 40 ppm, and T3 = T2 supplemented with 4% tuna fish oil. This study revealed that the effects of fish oil and L-carnitine supplementation in rations containing cellulase enzyme significantly lower cholesterol level (P<0.01) of Muscovy duck eggs from 867.42 mg/dl to 712.33 mg/dl, Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) from 28.33 to 22.12 mg/dl, saturated fatty acids from 30.88% to 25.02%. Meanwhile it increased the total concentration of High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) from 71.67 to 77.88 mg/dl, unsaturated fatty acid from 69.12% to 74.98%, linolenic acids from 5.71% to 8.40%, and linoleic acids from 28.74% to 37.30%. A diet rich in cellulase enzyme, carnitine, and fish oil notably increased HDL level, along with the reduction of LDL and total cholesterol.
The effect of various spices on functional properties of plant-based cheese analogue
Authors: Arief M F , Manab A
Published: January 2024

This research purpose was to study the effects of various spices on functional properties of plant-based cheese analogue (PBCA). PBCA was made from Geotrichum candidum (Gc: 3%), glucono-δ-lactone (GDL: 0.25%), and bromelain: 8 × 105 U/g. The sample was commercial dairy cheese (control), PBCA 1 (Gc + bromelain), PBCA 2 (GDL + bromelain), PBCA 3 (Gc + GDL), and PBCA 4 (Gc + GDL + bromelain). The results of observations processed using ANOVA and DMRT. In this study, different spices affect the chemical and sensory features of PBCA (p<0.05). The chemical features results were ash content (1.92%; 1.51%; 1.57%; 1.74%; 1.39%), fat content (29.7%; 25.0%; 24.9%; 26.7%; 24.7%), moisture content (55.4%; 49.6%; 50.1%; 47.3%; 50.3%), protein content (6.39%; 17.5%; 17.2%; 19.5%; 17.0%), and salt content (0.69%; 0.29%; 0.31%; 0.32%; 0.28%), respectively. The sensory features results were appearance (7.52; 7.18; 7.27; 7.48; 6.85), flavor (8.05; 7.68; 7.33; 7.67; 7.71), creaminess (7.73; 7.35; 7.33; 7.67; 7.25), firmness (6.40; 7.04; 6.37; 6.66; 6.58), spread ability (7.82; 7.48; 7.40; 7.78; 7.25), and overall (8.44; 7.91; 7.80; 7.48; 8.03), respectively. The effectiveness index test result was 1.00; 0.45; 0.53; 0.00; and 1.00, respectively. In conclusion, PBCA 4 was the best treatment.
The Influence of certification on perceived product quality of livestock food products
Authors: Syahlani S P , Triatmojo A , Dewi N M A K
Published: January 2024

Product safety in the livestock food product industry needs to control several factors that potentially cause health problems. Product certification regulation becomes one of the important requirements to ensure that offering livestock products is safe for consumers. This study aims to investigate the effect of product certification implemented in Indonesia for livestock food products that were MD, Halal, Organic, and NKV on the perceived product quality of fresh and processed livestock food products. This experiment involved student participants as surrogates of livestock food products consumers. This research was conducted with laboratory experimental between-subjects design and participants were placed into experimental groups using matching assignments. Eggs and processed milk were used as the research objects to represent fresh and processed livestock food products respectively. Product packaging and labels of eggs and processed milk were designed as experimental instruments, including certification attached to the product label. Manipulation check was conducted to ensure the effectiveness of experimental treatments. Data was analysed using ANOVA. The results indicated no difference in perceived product quality (p > 0.05) between control and treatment groups on fresh livestock food products. However, the effect of certification on the perceived product quality of processed livestock food products was significantly different. Furthermore, the post hoc test indicated the difference in perceived product quality in processed livestock food products was between Halal and NKV certifications (p ≤ 0.1).
Animal protein on stunting prevention: A narrative review
Authors: Damayanti K E , Dewi Y L R , Wiboworini B , Widyaningsih V
Published: January 2024

Stunting has been a global problem even though adult and child obesity has not been resolved yet. Various approaches have been carried out in the nutrition field and others. The Government of Indonesia recently established an effort on stunting reduction acceleration through its Ministry of Health. The accessibility to healthy food, including sources of animal protein, become one of its strategies. This study aims to explore the efforts evolved in stunting reduction, especially regarding access, availability, and provision of animal-based products to supply the source of animal protein. The review was done narratively from scientific sources such as Pubmed and Scopus. The 193 articles were derived from the search applying keywords “protein”, “policy”, “malnutrition”, and “stunting”, and their combination using the Boolean operator. There are 193 studies screened resulting in 159 studies excluded from 3 stages, and 40 studies in the review. The articles were then reviewed systematically using Covidence, a web-based systematic literature review tool. The study results show that the availability of animal products is much better, but not yet supported by good distribution and an increase in accessibility. The government has supported this with sufficient policy, however, more thorough action is still needed. Thus, sustainable animal farming is needed as one of the strategies to provide a sufficient quantity of animal products of optimal quality to prevent malnutrition, especially stunting.
Evaluation of government grant program (Case Study: “Dana Pokok Pikiran (POKIR)” or Principal Grant by Legislator in Farmers Groups in Padang City, West Sumatra, Indonesia)
Authors: Anas A , Ediset E , Alianta A A
Published: January 2024

The study aimed to evaluate the Government Grant Program known as “Dana Pokok Pikiran” or “Pokir” by legislators in Farmer Groups in Padang City, West Sumatra, Indonesia. The survey method was used in this study. It was conducted in Kuranji District, Padang City. The subject of this study was farmer groups in Kuranji District. The sample was ten farmer groups whose funding by legislators in the last three years. The respondent was stakeholders in the farmer groups. The data was collected with a questionnaire and then analysed with statistic descriptive. The result showed that the respondent stated the “Pokir” Grant 90% was implemented effectively, 50% was implemented efficiently, and 80% was sufficient. Furthermore, 90% of respondents stated that the “Pokir” Grant was spread evenly, 80% were well responsive, and 100% said the “Pokir Grant was right on target. The study concludes that almost all respondents stated the “Pokir” Grant was correct in following the program’s objectives, except for efficiency purposes.
The role of social capital in developing organic rice businesses at Gentungan Village
Authors: Suminah S , Widayanti E , Padmaningrum D , Anantanyu S
Published: January 2024

Social capital owned by the community as a result of social relations is established among members, which gives the meaning of trust, togetherness, tolerance and participation is closely related to the development of organic rice business. The aim of the research is to find out the form, role of social capital, and the role of society in developing social capital. This study uses a qualitative research method with a case study approach. The results of the study: bonding, referring to cooperative relationships, mutual trust between members, has high cohesiveness, but does not reflect the ability of the community to create social capital. Bridging, refers to mutually respectful and beneficial relationships between people who have differences, is able to foster participation, increase networking but the effectiveness of communication has not gone well. Linking, facilitating access to more complex resources, many relationships are established between actors and stakeholders. Communication of exchanging information, identifying problems and solutions, managing conflicts is still not optimal. The role of social capital is dominant, good interaction is established in preserving the culture of the main harvest, consistent social values and norms serve as social control. The community plays a role in developing social capital by fostering the participation of millennial farmers in developing organic rice businesses.
The formulation of community empowerment model based on dairy cattle business in Plaosan district, Magetan regency
Authors: Emawati S , Purnomo S H , Rahayu E T , Sari A I , Dewanti R
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to formulate community empowerment model based on dairy cattle business as an effort to support the development of village milk tourism in Plaosan District, Magetan Regency. A survey method was used in this study along with quantitative descriptive analysis. Furthermore, the location and samples used were selected using a purposive sampling method. Data were then collected using interviews, observation, documentation, and literature study. Primary data were derived from interviews with dairy farmers, while secondary datasets were obtained from related agencies. The data obtained were evaluated using descriptive analysis and needs analysis. The results showed that the formulation of community empowerment model aimed to improve the ability of farmers. This was achieved through counseling and training activities based on dairy cattle business and the existence of support from financial and supporting institutions. These concerted efforts were carried out to support the development of village milk tourism in Plaosan District, Magetan Regency.
Study on the potential and development policy of beef cattle in Cianjur district, West Java province
Authors: Rachmawati R R , Agustian A , Purba H J , Rachman B , Susilowati S H , Ariningsih E , Ariani M , Muslim C , Nurjati E , Inayah I
Published: January 2024

The growth of beef cattle in the Cianjur district is crucial in increasing national beef production. The objective of the study was to assess the potential for beef cattle development in terms of resources, population dynamics, and development policies. This study was carried out in 2022, involving 25 beef cattle farmers and the Animal Husbandry Services of the Cianjur district as respondents. Descriptive qualitative analysis was employed. The results of the study show that (1) the agricultural land in Cianjur covers 237.5 thousand hectares (equivalent to 66% of the total land area), which has the potential to provide livestock with forage; (2) in general, beef cattle farming technology has been well developed at the farmers level; (3) in the last five years, the beef cattle population in Cianjur district increased by 2.98% annually, from 39.90 thousand heads (2018) to 44.56 thousand heads (2022), and (4) policy to increase beef cattle population in Cianjur district includes the Beef Cattle Corporate Village (BCCV) Program. This study suggests that policy is needed to support the success and development of the beef cattle business within the framework of a sustainable development program.
Assessment of agricultural extension program planning on innovation dissemination in cattle farmers in transmigration area, Dharmasraya Regency, Sumatra Barat
Authors: Ediset E , Anas A , Alianta A A
Published: January 2024

The most important aspect of an agricultural extension programme is planning. The Extension Officers establish the program’s goal in this step. The study aimed to assess the farm extension program planning and measure the adoption rate of innovation among cattle farmers in the transmigration area in Dharmasraya Regency, West Sumatra, Indonesia. The survey method was used in this study. The respondents were sixty cattle farmers determined purposively chosen from five farmer groups presenting the transmigration area and has been attended to intensive agricultural extension. The data was collected with a questionnaire, analysed using descriptive statistics, and then presented in percentages. The result showed the program planning was implemented on preliminary data collecting (98.33%), existing condition analysis (85.83%), problems identification (52.50%), goals formalisation (70.83%), planning formations (98.33%), planning execution or agricultural extension activities (98.33%), evaluation of program progress (70.00%), and reconsideration (72.50%). The adoption rate of innovation showed adoption speed at 137-point, innovation spread in society at 129-point, and adoption quality at 167-point. It concluded that the agricultural extension program planning was implemented well, except for the problem identification phase. The adoption rate of innovation was categorised as good for cattle farmers in the transmigration area in Dharmasraya Regency, West Sumatra, Indonesia.
The characteristic of myxosporean infection in several organs of nile tilapia cultivation
Authors: Yunus M , Sunarso A , Wijaya A
Published: January 2024

The myxosporean is a parasite that frequently infects several fish organs, therefore it can be identified by histopathologically assessing the character of the infection in the infected organs. The present study was carried out to assess the infection of myxosporean (Myxobolussp.) in nile tilapia cultivation by observing the histomorphological characteristic of several organs. Live Nile tilapia sample from Gresik cultivations immediately was done necropsy and observation on gill, intestine and liver. Histological preparation was made for the gills, liver and intestines and observed with HE staining. In the gills of nile tilapia, variable numbers of active spore ofMyxobolussp. can displace the gill lamellae, inflammatory and incite hyperplastic responses, lamellar fusion, and gill distortion in several infections. The spore infiltrates the surface of the liver of the host causing serious damage to the liver tissue. Fish infected with the parasite exhibit necrosis and cysts in the gut. Parasites were detected within multiple segments of the intestine. While occurrences within the intestinal lumen were infrequent, conspicuous clinical indications were notably absent upon inspection of the fish’s external body surface. The findings unequivocally establish thatMyxobolussp. infection in tilapia induces substantial damage to the crucial organs of the fish.
Surface quality evaluation through 3D profilometry of dental restoration performed in a clinical simulated environment
Authors: Calmon Kezia dos Santos , Perez Cesar dos Reis , Maru Marcia Marie
Published: January 2024

This study evaluated the surface quality of Class V composite resin restorations, comparing the surface roughness resulting from applying three techniques for finishing and polishing in a condition of clinical simulated environment by using artificial dental arcade. Beyond the aesthetic aspect, the importance of the surface quality of the restoration is associated with biofilm accumulation that occur on the teeth restored surface depending on the roughness level, leading to carious lesions and gingivitis. The minimum roughness considered ideal to avoid the accumulation of bacterial biofilm, is 0.2 μm, and 0.5 μm for tactile perception. Most of the evaluations of the surface quality of restorative materials are performed in flat specimens, and the results can significantly differ from the clinical scenario. The present work discloses how heterogeneous the surface quality may result when dealing with natural teeth. The finishing and polishing techniques selected in this work comprised diamond burs and rubber points, diamond burs and surface sealant, and abrasive discs, for restoring premolar natural teeth using a commercial composite resin. The surface quality of the restoration resulting from the three techniques was investigated through Ra, Rt, Rp, R, Rk, Rpk, Rvk and RSm roughness parameters, extracted from 3D topography maps. It was found that the use of abrasive discs (G3) promoted better surface quality, with mean Ra roughness near 0.4 μm, against 0.6 μm for the surface sealant group (G2) and 1.0 μm for the rubber points group (G1). It was evidenced that, together with Ra, analyses of roughness parameters regarding the proportion of peaks and valleys, in this case, Rp and Rpk, and roughness spacing, RSm, were significant to gain confidence and reveal reliable screening of the performance between the three techniques, with the best surface condition of the restored area resulting from the use of abrasive discs.
Dual heteroatom-doped biomass-derived porous carbon anode for superior sodium storage
Authors: Li Yinyin , Zhu Jianhui , Song Liang , Wang Yanyi , Ma Dingtao , Sun Shichang , Zhang Peixin
Published: January 2024

The green preparation of anode materials is desirable for high-performance sodium-ion batteries. In this paper, a N/S co-doped porous carbon was prepared from longan shell via a facile and low-cost route. Heteroatom doping increases the defect sites to facilitate Na+ storage and improves the electronic conductivity of the carbon material. The N/S co-doped porous carbon prepared using CS(NH2)2 with a ratio of 1:2 displays the highest specific capacity of 314.7 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.1 A g−1. In addition, a reversible specific capacity of 202.5 mAh g−1 is maintained after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1. This work offers a new strategy for designing high-performance anode materials for sodium energy storage applications.
Synthesized uniform-different sizes silver nanoparticles using TSC and SBH simultaneously for antibacterial application
Authors: Hue Do Thi , Hiep Hoang Phu
Published: January 2024

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in the form of nanospheres from a few nm to 100 nm in diameter were synthesized in a controlled manner using a combination of two reducing agents: sodium borohydride (SBH) and trisodium citrate (TSC). The influence of the size of AgNPs on antibacterial activity was investigated with different concentrations of AgNPs on two types of bacteria: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) and Staphylococcus aureus resistant (SA) while the positive control was Ampicillin (Amp) 50 μg/ml and the negative control was water. AgNPs were investigated for morphology, size and size distribution using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements. The optical properties of the AgNPs were investigated by recording their UV–vis absorption spectra. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was determined using the disc diffusion method. The results showed that the antibacterial ability of AgNPs depends on both concentration and particle size. With a particle concentration of 50 μg ml−1, the antibacterial ability is the best. The smaller the particle size, the higher the antibacterial ability. The simultaneous use of two reducing agents TSC and SBH is the novelty of the article to synthesize AgNPs particles that are uniform in shape and size while controlling the particle size. On that basis, their antibacterial performance is increased.
Enhancing machining performance of EN24 steel with CVD diamond coated tool and minimal quantity lubrication
Authors: Parray Mohammad Arif , Din Sajad Hussain , Wani M F
Published: January 2024

The research aims to investigate the effect of chemical vapour deposition (CVD) diamond coatings on cemented tungsten carbide (WC-Co) inserts when machining EN24 steel. In addition to the diamond coating, the research also incorporates the use of minimal quantity lubrication (MQL) technique during the machining process. The research involves experimental studies to evaluate the machinability characteristics of EN24 steel using tungsten carbide cutting inserts with diamond coatings and MQL. Diamond-coated tools are extremely effective in machining EN24 steel, particularly in applications requiring high precision, wear resistance, and long tool life. They are commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where quality and durability of the machined components are critical. L12 orthogonal array was used to design experiments with the type of cutting insert used, test condition and cutting speed as control factors. Various parameters such as tool wear, cutting temperature and surface roughness were measured and compared with conventional machining techniques. The results reveal that average flank wear of cutting inserts decreased by 67.4% as a result of MQL when compared with dry machining conditions. Average flank wear decreased by 77.6% after diamond coating were applied compared with uncoated inserts. Diamond coated inserts subjected to MQL exhibit largest percentage reduction of 74.11% for surface roughness when compared to uncoated inserts. The average cutting temperature decreased by 53.09% due to MQL compared to dry machining.
Experimental investigation of physical, mechanical, and thermal behaviour of Bi-directional date palm fiber reinforced epoxy composite
Authors: Pradhan Madhusmita , Banerjee M K , Patnaik Amar
Published: January 2024

The present study attempts to fabricate lightweight polymer composites with superior physical, mechanical, and insulating properties by vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) technique. This produces bidirectional woven palm fiber epoxy composites with four different fiber loading i.e. 27, 28, 29, and 30 Wt%. The epoxy composite processed with VARTM technique has been characterized by physical, mechanical, and thermal properties along with increasing fiber loading. The test results signified that the mechanical properties including tensile, interlaminar shear, hardness, and impact strength improve with fiber loading. The maximum tensile strength and tensile modulus were observed at a fiber loading of 30 wt%, resulting in values of 64.852 MPa and 3.74 GPa, respectively. The recorded ILSS values for the epoxy composites loaded with 30 wt% were found to be 7.28 MPa. The observed improvements in the mechanical characteristics of the composite produced by the VARTM technology can be attributed to the enhanced interfacial bonding between the matrix and discontinuous prepreg fiber (DPF). The identification of a superior composite, known as DPF-4, was achieved through the incorporation of 30 wt% of bi-directional palm fiber loading. This resulted in notable improvements in the mechanical properties of the composite, as a significant enhancement of 311% and 173% in tensile and impact strength, respectively. These mechanically strengthened epoxy composites could be used as low-grade housing, structural, and automobile component applications.
Sex-based differences in the phenotypic expression and prognosis of idiopathic non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy: a cardiovascular magnetic resonance study
Authors: Mallabone Maggie , Labib Dina , Abdelhaleem Ahmed , Dykstra Steven , Thompson Richard B , Paterson D Ian , Thompson Sam K , Hasanzadeh Fereshteh , Mikami Yoko , Rivest Sandra , Flewitt Jacqueline , Feng Yuanchao , Macdonald Matthew , King Melanie , Bristow Michael , Kolman Louis , Howarth Andrew G , Lydell Carmen P , Miller Robert J H , Fine Nowell M , White James A
Published: January 2024

Aims

We sought to characterize sex-related differences in cardiovascular magnetic resonance-based cardiovascular phenotypes and prognosis in patients with idiopathic non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy (NICM).

Methods and results

Patients with NICM enrolled in the Cardiovascular Imaging Registry of Calgary (CIROC) between 2015 and 2021 were identified. Z-score values for chamber volumes and function were calculated as standard deviation from mean values of 157 sex-matched healthy volunteers, ensuring reported differences were independent of known sex-dependencies. Patients were followed for the composite outcome of all-cause mortality, heart failure admission, or ventricular arrhythmia. A total of 747 patients were studied, 531 (71%) males. By Z-score values, females showed significantly higher left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF; median difference 1 SD) and right ventricular (RV) EF (difference 0.6 SD) with greater LV mass (difference 2.1 SD; P < 0.01 for all) vs. males despite similar chamber volumes. Females had a significantly lower prevalence of mid-wall striae (MWS) fibrosis (22% vs. 34%; P < 0.001). Over a median follow-up of 4.7 years, 173 patients (23%) developed the composite outcome, with equal distribution in males and females. LV EF and MWS were significant independent predictors of the outcome (respective HR [95% CI] 0.97 [0.95–0.99] and 1.6 [1.2–2.3]; P = 0.003 and 0.005). There was no association of sex with the outcome.

Conclusion

In a large contemporary cohort, NICM was uniquely expressed in females vs. males. Despite similar chamber dilation, females demonstrated greater concentric remodelling, lower reductions in bi-ventricular function, and a lower burden of replacement fibrosis. Overall, their prognosis remained similar to male patients with NICM.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation in severe aortic stenosis does not necessarily reverse left ventricular myocardial damage: data of long-term follow-up
Authors: Myon Frederic , Marut Benjamin , Kosmala Wojciech , Auffret Vincent , Leurent Guillaume , L’official Guillaume , Curtis Elizabeth , Le Breton Herve , Oger Emmanuel , Donal Erwan
Published: January 2024

Aims

Aortic stenosis (AS) is causing myocardial damage and replacement is mainly indicated based on symptoms. Non-invasive estimation of myocardial work (MW) provides a less afterload-dependent too for assessing myocardial function. We sought to look at the impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) on the myocardium at long-term follow-up and according to current indications.

Methods and results

We conducted an observational, cross-sectional, single-centre study. Patients were selected based on the validated indication for a TAVI. Standardized echocardiographies were repeated. A total of 102 patients were included. The mean age was 85 years, 45% were female, 68% had high blood pressure, and 52% had a coronary disease. One-fifth was suffering from low-flow–low-gradient AS. A follow-up was performed at 22 ± 9.5 months after the TAVI. No TAVI dysfunction was observed. Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction was stable (62 ± 8%), and global longitudinal strain had improved (−14.0 ± 3.7 vs. −16.0 ± 3.6%, P < 0.0001). No improvement of the MW parameters was noticed (LV global work index 2099 ± 692 vs. 2066 ± 706 mmHg%, P = 0.8, LV global constructive 2463 ± 736 vs. 2463 ± 676 mmHg%, P = 0.8). Global wasted work increased [214 (149; 357) vs. 247 (177; 394) mmHg%, P = 0.0008].

Conclusion

In a population of severe symptomatic AS patients who had undergone a TAVI, the non-invasive myocardial indices that assess the LV performance at long-term follow-up did not improve. These results are questioning the timing of the intervention and the need for more attention in the pharmacological management of these AS patients.
Pre-hospital rule-out of non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome by a single troponin: final one-year outcomes of the ARTICA randomised trial
Authors: Aarts Goaris W A , Camaro Cyril , Adang Eddy M M , Rodwell Laura , van Hout Roger , Brok Gijs , Hoare Anouk , de Pooter Frank , de Wit Walter , Cramer Gilbert E , van Kimmenade Roland R J , Ouwendijk Eva , Rutten Martijn H , Zegers Erwin , van Geuns Robert-Jan M , Gomes Marc E R , Damman Peter , van Royen Niels
Published: January 2024

Background and aims

The healthcare burden of acute chest pain is enormous. In the randomized ARTICA trial, we showed that pre-hospital identification of low-risk patients and rule-out of non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) with point-of-care (POC) troponin measurement reduces 30-day healthcare costs with low major adverse cardiac events (MACE) incidence. Here we present the final 1-year results of the ARTICA trial.

Methods

Low-risk patients with suspected NSTE-ACS were randomized to pre-hospital rule-out with POC troponin measurement or emergency department (ED) transfer. Primary 1-year outcome was healthcare costs. Secondary outcomes were safety, quality of life (QoL), and cost-effectiveness. Safety was defined as a 1-year MACE consisting of ACS, unplanned revascularization, or all-cause death. QoL was measured with EuroQol-5D-5L questionnaires. Cost-effectiveness was defined as 1-year healthcare costs difference per QoL difference.

Results

Follow-up was completed for all 863 patients. Healthcare costs were significantly lower in the pre-hospital strategy (€1932 ± €2784 vs. €2649 ± €2750), mean difference €717 [95% confidence interval (CI) €347 to €1087; P < 0.001]. In the total population, the 1-year MACE rate was comparable between groups [5.1% (22/434) in the pre-hospital strategy vs. 4.2% (18/429) in the ED strategy; P = 0.54]. In the ruled-out ACS population, 1-year MACE remained low [1.7% (7/419) vs. 1.4% (6/417)], risk difference 0.2% (95% CI −1.4% to 1.9%; P = 0.79). QoL showed no significant difference between strategies.

Conclusions

Pre-hospital rule-out of NSTE-ACS with POC troponin testing in low-risk patients is cost-effective, as expressed by a sustainable healthcare cost reduction and no significant effect on QoL. One-year MACE remained low for both strategies.
Genomic Architecture Predicts Tree Topology, Population Structuring, and Demographic History in Amazonian Birds
Authors: Thom Gregory , Moreira Lucas Rocha , Batista Romina , Gehara Marcelo , Aleixo Alexandre , Smith Brian Tilston
Published: January 2024

Geographic barriers are frequently invoked to explain genetic structuring across the landscape. However, inferences on the spatial and temporal origins of population variation have been largely limited to evolutionary neutral models, ignoring the potential role of natural selection and intrinsic genomic processes known as genomic architecture in producing heterogeneity in differentiation across the genome. To test how variation in genomic characteristics (e.g. recombination rate) impacts our ability to reconstruct general patterns of differentiation between species that cooccur across geographic barriers, we sequenced the whole genomes of multiple bird populations that are distributed across rivers in southeastern Amazonia. We found that phylogenetic relationships within species and demographic parameters varied across the genome in predictable ways. Genetic diversity was positively associated with recombination rate and negatively associated with species tree support. Gene flow was less pervasive in genomic regions of low recombination, making these windows more likely to retain patterns of population structuring that matched the species tree. We further found that approximately a third of the genome showed evidence of selective sweeps and linked selection, skewing genome-wide estimates of effective population sizes and gene flow between populations toward lower values. In sum, we showed that the effects of intrinsic genomic characteristics and selection can be disentangled from neutral processes to elucidate spatial patterns of population differentiation.
Leguminous green manure intercropping changes the soil microbial community and increases soil nutrients and key quality components of tea leaves
Authors: Duan Yu , Wang Ting , Lei Xiaogang , Cao Yu , Liu Lefeng , Zou Zhongwei , Ma Yuanchun , Zhu Xujun , Fang Wanping
Published: January 2024

Intercropping, a green and sustainable planting pattern, has demonstrated positive effects on plant growth and the soil environment. However, there is currently little research on the influence of intercropping leguminous plants and using them as green manure on the soil environment and tea quality. During the profuse flowering period of Chinese milkvetch, the contents of tea amino acids and soluble sugar in intercropping tea plants with soybean increased by 6.89 and 54.58%. Moreover, there was 27.42% increase in soil ammonium nitrogen and 21.63% increase in available nitrogen. When Chinese milkvetch was returned to soil for 1 month during its profuse flowering period, the soybean and Chinese milkvetch as green manure enhanced tea amino acids and soluble sugar by 9.11 and 33.96%, and soil ammonium nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen and available nitrogen increased by 25.04, 77.84, and 48.90%. Intercropping systems also have positive effects on tea quality components, soil fertility, and soil microbial communities during the profuse flowering period of soybeans and when soybeans with this period were returned to the field for 1 month. Furthermore, the soil fertility index was significantly increased, especially in the intercropping system of tea–soybean–Chinese milkvetch. The soil bacterial community complexity and fungal community interactions were significantly increased. Soil pH, nitrate nitrogen, and available phosphorus were found to be crucial influencing factors on soil microbial communities, specifically bacterial communities. These results highlight the significance of optimizing intercropping systems to improve the soil environment and tea quality components. They also provide a theoretical foundation for promoting the sustainable development of tea plantations.
Management of pharmaceutical services in the fight against COVID-19 in universal public health systems: a rapid review
Authors: Augusti Júlia Vasconcellos , Silva Sarah Nascimento
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic brought new challenges and lessons were learnt for health services. In the field of pharmaceutical care, several interventions have been proposed to optimize and expand the response capacity of services.

Objective

To identify and characterize interventions performed in the management of pharmaceutical services during the COVID-19 pandemic in universal public health systems.

Methods

A rapid literature review was conducted and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022360902). Systematic searches in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, and Virtual Health Library databases were conducted to identify interventions and practices adopted for the management of pharmaceutical care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Thirteen articles reporting interventions developed in six countries were included. The interventions were summarized under three major themes: actions for continuous access to medicines, logistical measures for acquisition and storage, and organizational strategies. Telepharmacy services stand out as a typical action adopted in different services, which highlights the use and consolidation of digital technologies in these services. Strategies for process management were described and focused on the reorganization of the internal service of pharmacies, flow of services, and people management.

Conclusions

Many interventions were developed during the pandemic, some of which have already been incorporated into routine service delivery. Although the studies did not measure the effect of each intervention, the strategies developed are a source of information for the future delivery of care. Studies should be conducted to evaluate the potential of similar interventions in other health emergency contexts.
Weight 11 Compactly Supported Cohomology of Moduli Spaces of Curves
Authors: Payne Sam , Willwacher Thomas
Published: January 2024

We study the weight 11 part of the compactly supported cohomology of the moduli space of curves ${\mathcal{M}}_{g,n}$, using graph complex techniques, with particular attention to the case $n = 0$. As applications, we prove new nonvanishing results for the cohomology of ${\mathcal{M}}_{g}$, and exponential growth with $g$, in a wide range of degrees.
Feeding behavior and life-history parameters of Therioaphis trifolii (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on 2 alfalfa cultivars
Authors: Song Xianmei , Wang Xinpu
Published: January 2024

Alfalfa, Medicago sativa, is a link connecting crop production and animal husbandry and plays a dominant role in the development of the livestock sector. The productivity of alfalfa is adversely affected by aphids’ feeding damage and their capacity to transmit viral plant pathogens. To increase alfalfa forage yield, it is imperative to control pest insects and use resistant varieties. The aim of this study was to identify the mechanism of M. sativa resistance to aphids by examining changes in the physiology, feeding behavior, and life history of the pests. The leaves of Gannong No. 5 (HA-3, aphid-resistant cultivar) had denser, longer trichome and thicker cortical parenchyma cell, and greater xylem thicknesses than those of Hunter River (Hu, aphid-susceptible cultivar). Nonprobing behaviors suggested that the spotted alfalfa aphid, Therioaphis trifolii, became more active in searching for suitable feeding sites on HA-3 than on Hu plants. Additionally, T. trifolii showed shorter durations for salivating into sieve elements and ingesting phloem sap on HA-3 plants. Life-table analysis showed that T. trifolii on HA-3 had longer developmental duration, higher mortality rate, and lower fecundity, net reproductive rate, intrinsic rate of increase, finite rate of increase and gross reproduction rate values than that on Hu plants. Moreover, relative fitness was significantly reduced in T. trifolii on HA-3 plants. The results of this study provided a basis for developing better control strategies for T. trifolii and studying the mechanisms of alfalfa resistance to aphids.
Malarial Encounters and Shifting Racial Recruitment Strategies by the Basel Mission on the Gold Coast, 1828-1849
Authors: Mohr Adam
Published: January 2024

In the early- to mid-nineteenth century, European mortality rates in West Africa were the highest in the world. Mortality estimates included nine missionaries sent from the Basel Mission (established in what is now Switzerland) to the Gold Coast (present-day Ghana), eight of whom died between 1828 and 1840, mostly from “fevers.” In response to high mortality rates, the Basel Mission recruited several Afro-West Indians to work as Christian missionaries in the Gold Coast, mostly based on the presumption that individuals of African descent would better survive the environment. The decision to recruit Afro-West Indians to evangelize on the Gold Coast seemed to the mission to be a rational decision, one not in need of further justification or an overarching theory of race, environment, and disease. Surprisingly, the Basel Mission did not justify this position Biblically either. Once arrived, the West Indian Christian missionaries mostly lived in the Akwapem hills above Accra at an elevation that would have provided some protection against malaria; subsequently, their mortality rates were significantly lower than the European missionaries. After quinine came to be used as a prophylactic against malaria after 1850, thus lowering European missionary mortality rates, no more Afro-West Indians were recruited by the Basel Mission.
Removal of phase residues in electron holography
Authors: Takahashi Yoshio , Akashi Tetsuya , Tanigaki Toshiaki
Published: January 2024

Electron holography provides quantitative phase information regarding the electromagnetic fields and the morphology of micro- to nano-scale samples. A phase image reconstructed numerically from an electron hologram sometimes includes phase residues, i.e. origins of unremovable phase discontinuities, which make it much more difficult to quantitatively analyze local phase values. We developed a method to remove the residues in a phase image by a combination of patching local areas of a hologram and denoising based on machine learning. The small patches for a hologram, which were generated using the spatial frequency information of the own fringe patterns, were pasted at each residue point by an algorithm based on sparse modeling. After successive phase reconstruction, the phase components with no dependency on the vicinity were filtered out by Gaussian process regression. We determined that the phase discontinuities that appeared around phase residues were removed and the phase distributions of an atomic resolution phase image of a Pt nanoparticle were sufficiently restored.
“Hemispheric pilocytic astrocytoma” revisited: A comprehensive clinicopathological and molecular series emphasizing their overlap with other glioneuronal tumors
Authors: Mariet Cassandra , Grill Jacques , Ajlil Yassine , Castel David , Dangouloff-Ros Volodia , Boddaert Nathalie , Meurgey Alexandra , Pissaloux Daniel , Appay Romain , Saffroy Raphaël , Puget Stéphanie , Blauwblomme Thomas , Beccaria Kévin , Hasty Lauren , Rigau Valérie , Roujeau Thomas , Aline-Fardin Aude , Chrétien Fabrice , Métais Alice , Varlet Pascale , Tauziède-Espariat Arnault
Published: January 2024

Pilocytic astrocytomas (PA) typically exhibit distinct clinical, radiological, histopathological, and genetic features. DNA-methylation profiling distinguishes PA according to their location (infratentorial, midline, hemispheric, or spinal). In the hemispheric location, distinguishing PA from glioneuronal tumors remains a common diagnostic challenge for neuropathologists. Furthermore, the current version of the DKFZ classifier seems to have difficulty separating them from gangliogliomas. In this study, after central radiological review, we identified a histopathologically defined set of PA (histPA, n = 11) and a cohort of DNA-methylation defined PA (mcPA, n = 11). Nine out of the 11 histPA matched the methylation class of hemispheric PA, whereas 2 cases were classified at the end of the study as dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors. Similarly, the mcPA cohort contained tumors mainly classified as PA (7/11), but 4 cases were classified as glioneuronal. The analysis of the 16 tumors with an integrated diagnosis of PA revealed that they affect mainly children with a wide spectrum of radiological, histopathological (i.e. a predominantly diffuse growth pattern), and genetic characteristics (large range of mitogen-activated protein kinase alterations). Based on these results, we consider hemispheric PA to be different from their counterparts in other locations and to overlap with other glioneuronal tumors, reinforcing the necessity of interpreting all data to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Benefit–Risk Assessment of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines in Children Aged 6 Months to 4 Years in the Omicron Era
Authors: Kitano Taito , Salmon Daniel A , Dudley Matthew Z , Thompson David A , Engineer Lilly
Published: January 2024

Background

There is no risk and benefit assessment of COVID-19 vaccination for children younger than 5 years using a single health outcomes scale. The objective of this study is to compare the expected risk and benefits of the mRNA primary series of COVID-19 vaccines for children aged 6 months to 4 years in the United States using a single health outcome scale in the Omicron era.

Methods

The expected benefits and risks of the primary two-dose series of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for children aged 6 months to 4 years were stratified by sex, the presence of underlying medical conditions, the presence of infection-induced immunity, and the type of mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273). A scoping literature review was conducted to identify the indicators in the decision tree model. The benefit–risk ratio was the outcome of interest.

Results

The benefit–risk ratios ranged from 200.4 in BNT162b2 for males aged 6–11 months with underlying medical conditions and without infection-induced immunity to 3.2 in mRNA-1273 for females aged 1–4 years without underlying medical conditions and with infection-induced immunity.

Conclusions

The expected benefit of receiving the primary series of mRNA vaccines outweighed the risk among children ages 6 months to 4 years regardless of sex, presence of underlying medical conditions, presence of infection-induced immunity, or type of mRNA vaccines. However, the continuous monitoring of the COVID-19 epidemiology as well as vaccine effectiveness and safety is important.