bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on production of organic acid rust remover from passion fruit fermented by Aspergillus Niger
Authors: Jiang-xue Long , Jia-li Jiang , Shi-ming Zhang , Xiao-feng Dai , Xu-jie Dong
Published: November 2019

Organic acid and rust remover based on citric acid were gradually praised by the industry because of its environmental protection and good derusting effect. In this paper, the production cycle of citric acid by Aspergillus Niger shaking flask fermentation was studied with Passion Fruit/Shell, and the rust removal effect of the product was preliminarily verified. The cultivation factors included Passion Fruit/Shell 20%+Sucrose 5%, 35°C, pH 5.0-5.5, shaking table 150 r/min, the fermentation cycle could be completed in 4-5 days, and the pH in fruit fermentation broth decreased to 2.7. At room temperature, the derusting effect of 1 time diluted fruit fermentation broth equaled that of 3%commercial citric acid, the rust removal time could prolonged properly at low temperature. The resultshad a guiding significance for producing organic rust remover from Passion Fruit by Aspergillus Niger.
Degradation of Diclofenac Sodium in Microbial fuel cells
Authors: Wu Y C , Fu H Y , Wen H , Chen F D , Dai Z N , Yang A L
Published: November 2019

Diclofenac sodium is an extensively consumed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug for certain non-rheumatic diseases and frequently detected at surface water. This work we studied the degradation process of diclofenac sodium in an anodic chambers of microbial fuel cells. It was found that biodegradation of diclofenac sodium could be achieved in the microbial fuel cells, and the removal rate of diclofenac sodium was accelerated after bioelectrochemical activity microorganism acclimation. The highest removal rate can reach up to 30.73% after 2 weeks of operation. The results also showed that weak acid (pH=5.5) condition favour the degradation of diclofenac sodium, while low temperature condition inhibited its degradation. This work provided a new way to remove diclofenac sodium from wastewater.
Quality of particleboard made from rattan waste
Authors: Astari L , Sudarmanto  , Kusumah S S , Akbar F , Prasetiyo K W
Published: November 2019

Indonesia as a tropical country has a various source of renewable resources; rattan is one of them. Rattan (Calamus rotangL.) is mainly utilized as raw material for furniture. Several wastes such as core and bark are produced during the process of furniture making. This research was conducted to investigate the properties of particleboard made from core and rattan bark. Rattan particle with moisture content less than 5% was mixed with the adhesive. Phenol formaldehyde (PF) 12% was used as the adhesive. The mixed particle was then hot pressed for 10 minutes at 150 °C with 25 kgf/cm2. Board dimension was 25 x 25 x 1 cm. Before testing, boards were conditioned for seven days. Testing was conducted for physical and mechanical properties according to JIS A 5908-2003. Surface roughness testing, as well as wettability, was also conducted to investigate the surface properties of particleboard.
Mechanism of heat transfer using water in wood pores during wood densification
Authors: Sufiandi S , Darmawan T , Dwianto W
Published: November 2019

Heat treatment was used for softening purposes during wood compression. Water was impregnated into wood pore to study heat transfer of wet wood along the process. Heat treatment of 3 hours before compression were measured at the center-side of compressed wood pores that perpendicular to compression direction. Temperature measurement of experimental results and simulation model were compared and discussed.
Directional response of the subterranean termite Coptotermes curvignathus toward volatilized Pinus merkusii extract
Authors: Fajar A , Himmi S K , Kartika T , Yusuf S
Published: November 2019

Preliminary study on termite recognition for food source location was carried out by the subjection of volatile compounds emitted by Sumatran Pine (Pinus merkusii Jungh. & de Vriese). Food source recognition by termite was evaluated using a set-up model on the inverted Y-tube apparatus. The apparatus consisted of a release chamber, in which five workers had been released; an intersection chamber, in which termite movement would be evaluated for clockwise and counter-clockwise movements; and a pair of food chamber. Between the intersection chamber and food chambers, a tunnel with 5 cm length was divided into five scale ranges, in which each range was related to a preference score. Various set-up models had been prepared from these concentrations: 0%; 0.5%; 1%; 2%; 4%; 8% of the macerated extract of Sumatran Pine sapwood in 8 mm paper dish. Each set-up consisted of a pair of concentrations: low & high concentration, which was located on different food chambers. The results suggested that termite showed directional preference to a low concentration, even in a set-up model of 0% & 0.5% (F= 16.65, P = 0.002), which indicated that the extracts might have a repellent effect against termite. When the results were clustered based on termite’s movement, clockwise and counterclockwise, significant preference for low concentration was observed in two and one set-up models, respectively. Behavioural observation showed that in most of the set-up models, the first food chamber explored by a termite would generate more preference scores, regardless of the concentrations.
Isolation and identification of decomposer fungi from Macaranga indica and Hibiscus macrophyllus leaf litter from restoration area of Gunung Leuser National Park
Authors: Elfiati D , Delvian  , Hasugian F A
Published: November 2019

Leaves mostly litter on the forest floor. The process of leaf litter decomposition involves the role of microorganisms such as fungi. The study aimed to isolating and identifying the fungi of Macaranga indica and Hibiscus macrophyllus leaf litter. The leaf litter was taken under the stand of Macaranga indica and Hibiscus macrophyllus in the restoration area of Gunung Leuser National Park Sei Betung Resort North Sumatra. Fungi were isolated using the direct plating methods with Potato Dextrose Agar medium. The purified fungi were then identified morphologically to the genus level. Morphological identification carried out by looking at the macroscopic and microscopic features of fungi. There were six isolates from Macaranga indica leaf litter and eight isolates from Hibiscus macrophyllus leaf litter. The result shows that there are five genera of fungi consisting of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, Trichoderma, and Cladosporium.
The study of diversity index on plankton community in Lematang River to determinate the quality of waters as habitat of local fishes
Authors: Sagala E P
Published: November 2019

The existence of plankton community in Lematang River is important for supplying diet nutrition to juvenile fishes. Based on study that had been done in Lematang River, there are relationship between the populations of several fishes with plankton diversities. Some activities which disturb the living of plankton are sand and stone mining. This activities have destroyed niche habitat for plankton and fishes. Additionally, other factor that lead to the damage are domestic and industrial wastes originated from Lahat and areas a longside Lematang River. According to this research, local fishes that could be found in upstream of Lematang River were Rasbora sp., Puntius sp., and Hampala sp. and etc. Diversities index of plankton communities on upstream was higher (more than 3,00) than those that on downstream (less than 3,00). Regulation to prohibit sand and stone mining are necessary to conserve niche habitat of Lematang River for plankton and local fishes.
The nutritional content of some fruits as feeding sources of Sumatran orangutans
Authors: Onrizal O , Auliah N L
Published: November 2019

Orangutans are classified as frugivore that most of their feeding sources come from fruits. Bukit Lawang forest (BLF) as part of Gunung Leuser National Park (GLNP) is known as the first center for orangutan rehabilitation (COR) established in 1973 and then closed in 1991. To date, the BLF is the orangutan viewing center (OVC). This study aimed to assess the nutritional content of some fruits feed by Sumatran orangutan (SOU) in BLF and to determine the energy adequacy from fruits eaten by SOU. The nutritional content was analyzed by proximate method. There were nine fruits from different tree species as SOU food sources analyzed in this study. According to the nutritional content, the best fruit for orangutan feed was P. lateriflora which the highest content of the fruit was water content (62.13%), followed by carbohydrate (23.81%), protein (13.72%), ash (0.21%) and fat (0.10%). This study indicated that the nutritional requirements of SOU at the BLF were categorized as sufficient. Therefore, no additional feed is needed for SOU in the area, and feeding time session can be eliminated in the OVC Bukit Lawang of GLNP.
Simalungun language phonotactics: the study of phonology
Authors: Purba A R , Siahaan J
Published: November 2019

Phonotactics research is a procedure for the discovery and determination of the sequence and phonemes in a language based on distribution (beginning, middle and end of a word). Each language has a special characteristic in phonotactics. Therefore, phonotractics research needs to be done. The purpose of this study is to describe a series of vocal, diphthong, a sequence of consonants, and syllables. The method used was descriptive qualitative methods by collecting data through observation, interview and study library by using the phonotractics theory initiated by O’Grady, et al (1989) and Pulgram (1970). Based on the analysis of phonotractics in Simalungun language, vowel sequence was found to occupy the position of beginning, middle and end of a Word. Diphthongs only occupied the position of the end of a word, whereas the consonant sequence was only found in the middle of word. The results of the analysis showed that the vowel sequence consists of sixteen (16), namely: vowel sequence /ai/, /au/, /ae/, /ao/, /ia/, /iu/, /io/, /ua/, /ue/, /uo/, /ui/, ea/, /eu/, /eo/, /oa/ and /oi/. Diftong consists of three (3), they are /ou/, /ei/, and /ui/. There are ten (10) consonant sequences, namely: a). The sequence starts with a consonant /h/ as : /-hb-/, /-hk-/, /-hp-/, and /-ht-/., b). The sequence starts with a consonant /k/ as : /-kb-/, /-kd-/, /-kj-/, /-kl-/, /-km-/, /-kp-/, and /-kt-/., c). The sequence starts with a consonant /l/ as : /-lb-/, /-ld-/, /-lh-/, /-lm-/, /-lg-/, /-lg-/, /-lj-/, /-lŋ-/, /-lp-/, and /-lt/., d). The sequence starts with a consonant /m/ as : /-mb-/, /-mm-/, /-ml-/, and /-mp-/., e). The sequence starts with a consonant /n/ as : /-nd-/, /-nj-/, /-ns-/, and /-nt-/., f). The sequence starts with a consonant /ŋ/ as : /- ŋ g-/, /- ŋ j-/, /- ŋ k-/, /- ŋ l-/, /- ŋ m-/, /- ŋ r-/, /- ŋ s-/, and /- ŋ t-/., g). The sequence starts with a consonant /p/ as : /-pd-/, /-ph-/, /-pr-/, /-ps-/, and /-pt-/., h). The sequence starts with a consonant /r/ as: /-rb-/, /-rd-/, /-rg-/, /-rk-/, /-rj-/, /-rl-/, /-rŋ-/, /-rp-/, and /-rt-/., i). The sequence starts with a consonant /s/ as: /-sd-/, /-sq-/, /-sk-/, /-sp-/ and /-st-/., j). The sequence starts with a consonant /t/ as : /-tg-/, /-tp-/, and /-tr-/. The syllables in the vowel sequence consist of V, VK. KV, and KVK. The syllable in diphthongs consists of KVV at the end of the word and the consonant sequence consists of the KK which occupies the middle position of the word.
Fiscal decentralization in villages: high nepotism low capacity
Authors: Simanihuruk M , Sihombing T
Published: November 2019

Fiscal transfer of nearly one billion to the village accounts made the struggle for village heads tense. This tension is because the legacy of the village founder (huta), who is the basic foundation of village governance in the past, has to deal with liberal democracy in the practice of the current election of village head. Collective communitarian democracy as a feature of self-governing capacity at the village level has not been completely abandoned, but it has to carry out individual liberal democracy at the same time . In general, village heads in the two sub-districts of this study have participated in capacity building related to their duties and functions such as the preparation of the Village Medium Term Development Plan (RPJM-Desa), Village Regulations (Perdes), except the establishment of Village Owned Enterprise (Bumdes). Even so, the village documents are only slightly stored in the files of each village. The kinship politics of the village apparatus (village head, village secretary, village treasurer) as well as between village apparatuses, namely the Village Government Agency (BPD), were marked by a very close relationship. This kinship politics is because they are the first clan of the village. This village is only inhabited by the descendants of the clan group, and there is almost no imigration. The political implication of this kinship is a reluctance to monitor each other (both intra and between village units) when power abuse occurs.
The large-scale meteorological condition during the critical stage of Mesoscale Convective Complexes (MCCs) over Indian Ocean
Authors: Trismidianto
Published: November 2019

This study analyzed the large-scale meteorological condition during Mesoscale Convective Complexes (MCCs) over the Indian Ocean. The MCCs were identified by infrared satellite imagery using an algorithm that combined information about cloud coverage, eccentricity, and the cloud lifetimes of MCCs. The data used were a combination of satellite data and reanalysis data, while the Brightness temperature (TBB) was obtained from the MTSAT IR1 satellite data. The results of this study showed that, in general, the initial stage of the MCC was characterized by strong low-level convergence and vertical convection, and largely driven by the convergence of the moisture flux in the lower troposphere. The mature stage of the MCC was characterized by weak surface convergence, strong upper-level divergence, and a shortwave ridge in the mid- and upper levels. Where there was strong surface divergence, the decay and dissipation stages were very similar, and the surface convergence left the system. The movement of most MCCs resulted from the combined contributions of advection and the propagation of surface convergence. Results from this research showed that these large convective systems tended to be formed in the vicinity of the terminus of a low-level jet that transported moist and warm air to the originating regions of the MCCs. Shortwave troughs and baroclinic zones were associated with MCC development.
Analysis of coastal vegetation density changes of Langkat Regency, North Sumatera, Indonesia
Authors: Zaitunah A , Thoha A S , Samsuri  , Siregar K S
Published: November 2019

Coastal is a dynamic area which is changing rapidly in response to natural processes and human activities. The significant increase in population and development activities around the coast of Langkat Regency have caused changes in land cover and vegetation density. This research was done by overlaying spatial data occurred from 2006 to 2016 to obtain land cover change data, NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) values, and to find out vegetation density in the coastal area of Langkat Regency. The research found that the highest area in the coastal of Langkat in year 2006 was under very dense class with 37.38%. In 2016, the highest area covering coastal of Langkat was Dense class with 38.21%. The decrease area found from very dense class to dense class for 34.06%. This research is expected to provide information as a consideration in the effort of coastal management of Langkat Regency.
The evaluation of Agathis wood from densification process to the resistance of Trametes versicolor fungi
Authors: Baharudin  , Yunianti A D , Taskirawati I , Agussalim
Published: November 2019

Most species of wood from community forests have low quality compared to wood from natural forests because it is generally cut down in young years so that it has a high portion of juvenile wood and low durability. One process of improving wood quality is the densification process. The purpose of this research is to determine the resistance to Trametes versicolor fungi from densified wood with initial treatment of soaking on CH3COOH and H2O2 20% solution, borax 3%, and distilled water. Agathis wood boards made of 23 cm x 20 cm x 2.5 cm were densified with a target of 30% thickness reduction, at a temperature of 150 °C for 15 minutes. After the densification process, the test samples were measured and calculated for density and recovery of a set and tested for MOE and MOR and resistance to T.versicolor fungi. The results showed that the three types of treatment, soaking with CH3COOH and H2O2, had a very high weight loss. This situation did not only attack from T.versicolor but also degradation of wood by CH3COOH and H2O2. Th immersion with borax and distilled water only experienced very little weight loss. It shows that T.versicolor fungi less favors the densified Agathis wood.
Decrease in water level by rooter technology one-way system on flood-prone land in Sunggal District, North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Utomo B , Ramadhan F , Dalimunthe A
Published: November 2019

Rooter system technology is a technology used to accommodate and absorb water into the soil through pipes that are designed like tree roots where the pipe is planted into the ground as deep as two meters with a slope of 45 degrees. Rainwater is collected and absorbed into the soil. Rooter technology system only holds rainwater, it does not waste water. System rooter technology is a well or hole on the ground surface which is made to hold rainwater so that it can seep into the soil. This study aims to control flooding in flood-prone areas using one-way rooter technology with an environmentally friendly concept. This research was conducted from 1 January 2018 to 28 February 2018 by observing directly in the field. Observations carried out included analysis of the study site, the water level at the study site, area of land affected by flooding, length of time, the soil absorbed, water level which did not use one-way rooter system technology. The volume of water that entered the soil was calculated using both rooter system technology and land that does not consume system rooter technology. The results of this study indicated that by using rooter technology a one-way water system is faster to enter the ground and can overcome flooding on the land.
Evaluation of two-year mangrove rehabilitation using Rhizophora apiculata propagules in Lubuk Kertang Village, North Sumatra
Authors: Basyuni M , Al Habib A , Slamet B , Sulistiyono N , Hayati R , Putri L A P , Yusraini E , Lesmana I
Published: November 2019

Mangrove forests in North Sumatera are rapidly threatened due to anthropogenic activities. The study site was former oil palm plantation, and the areas can be reforested. The present study describes a two-year evaluation on mangrove seedlings in Lubuk Kertang Village, Langkat, North Sumatra, Indonesia. The rehabilitation was carried out on December 2015 using direct planting of 6,000 Rhizophora apiculata propagules which were evaluated twice in September 2017 and January 2018. The evaluation was divided into four plots consisting of hundred seedlings each, and the criteria of mangrove rehabilitation consisted of seedling diameter and height, leaf thickness and number, and seedling growth rate. Results showed that the growth rate for a two-year evaluation of first and second observation was 89 and 92 %, respectively. Similarly, the height, diameter, and some leaves seedlings planting showed better performance in the second measurement. The data are likely to confirm relevant information on successful rehabilitation using recommended species for degraded areas and availability of mangrove propagules in the area.
Analysis of biomass and carbon potential on eucalyptus stand in industrial plantation forest, North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Muhdi  , Sahar A , Hanafiah D S , Zaitunah A , Nababan F W B
Published: November 2019

Forests degradation causes forestry businesses to be economically less profitable than other agribusiness commodities, thus triggering the policies of governments that plan to convert natural forests to other uses, such as industrial forest plantations. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential of biomass and carbon stores in eucalyptus stands in industrial plantation forests, North Sumatra, Indonesia. This research was carried out in Industrial Plantation Forest of Toba Pulp Lestari Areas, Toba Samosir, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Analysis of carbon content was carried out at the Laboratory of Chemical Products of Forest, Faculty of Forestry, Bogor Agricultural University. Preparation of research permanent sample plots (PSP) was carried out using the nesting plot method. The research permanent sample plot (PSP) made was three plots. Analysis of biomass and carbon was done by the destructive method felling of sample trees and measuring their diameter, length, and wet weight. To find out the eucalyptus carbon content, we took the samples from each part of the plant and tested in a laboratory. The results showed that the average carbon content of Eucalyptus stands on the main stem was 34.66%, in the branch was 25.75%, and in the leaf was 22.46%, respectively. This research found that the selected allometric equations for estimating the carbon stock of eucalyptus stands was W = -174.670 + 0.347D2 + 8.180H and C = -55.668 + 0.085D2 + 2.947H (W=biomass; C=carbon; D= diameter at breast height; H=height). This research indicated that the carbon potential of eucalyptus stands was 71.05 tons/ha and 26.23 tons C/ha.
In vitro cytotoxicity of Alstonia scholaris (R.Br) bark on Vero and HeLa cell lines
Authors: Zuraida  , Mariya S
Published: November 2019

Alstonia scholaris R.Br is one of forest plants that have medicinal properties used to treat various diseases. This study aimed to determine the activity of in vitro cytotoxicity of Alstonia scholaris bark against HeLa and Vero cells. Alstonia scholaris bark was macerated with 70% ethanol and fractionated using n-hexane and chloroform to obtain n-hexane, chloroform, and ethanol fraction. All three fractions were tested using MTT assay against HeLa (cervix cancer) and Vero (normal) cells. The results showed that chloroform fraction was the most toxic to HeLa cells with IC50 (125.06 μg/mL) and followed by ethanol fraction (200.07 μg/mL), and n-hexane fractions (238.47 μg mL) respectively. On the other hand, ethanol fraction was the least toxic to Vero cell growth with IC50 (579.93 μg/mL), followed by n-hexane fraction (459.47 μg/mL), and chloroform fraction was the most toxic (396.24 μg/mL). It was suggested that ethanol fraction was the best fraction because it had the least toxicity to a normal cell, but still had toxicity to HeLa cell.
The Role First-Day Readings Play in a 3-Day Schedule of Self-Monitoring Home Blood Pressure Based on Prognostic Data. VAMPAHICA Study
Authors: Bayó Joan , Dalfó Antoni , Barceló Maria A , Saez Marc , Roca Carme , Pallozzi Julia , Coll-De-Tuero Gabriel
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The optimal schedule for self-monitoring home BP (SMHBP) readings is enormously important in the diagnosis of different phenotypes related to hypertension. The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic capacity of a 3-day SMHBP schedule when using or suppressing the first-day measurements in compiling the results.

METHODS

A total of 767 newly diagnosed, nontreated patients with no history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) were followed for 6.2 years. As a baseline, office BP measurements were taken for all the patients who then went on to follow a 3-day SMHBP schedule, taking 2 readings in the morning and 2 in the evening. The prognostic calculation was performed with CVD variables. The prognostic capacity of the 3-day schedule was evaluated with and without the first-day readings (12 and 8 readings).

RESULTS

A total of 223 normotensive subjects (NT), 271 subjects with sustained hypertension (SHT), and 184 white-coat hypertensive subjects (WCH) were followed. The distribution of 98 (14.4%) nonfatal CV events during the follow-up was as follows: WCH 21 (11.4%), NT 9 (4.0%), and SHT 68 (25.1%). No statistically significant differences were observed in the risk of CV events (OR) for the 2 groups of hypertensives, irrespective of the schedule of readings used (SHT with vs. without first-day readings: 8.81 (4.28–18.15) vs. 8.61 (4.15–17.85) and WCH with vs. without first-day readings: 2.71(1.13–6.47) vs. 3.40 (1.49–7.78)).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that first-day readings do not need to be discarded in order to calculate the final value of an SMHBP schedule.
Staminal features in Barnadesioideae (Asteraceae): description, evolution and function
Authors: Svoma Erika , Mayer Veronika , Stuessy Tod F , Urtubey Estrella
Published: November 2019

Morphological features of the heads (capitula) of Asteraceae have been used extensively in classification of the family at different levels of the taxonomic hierarchy. Among the various characters, features of stamens have been employed to determine relationships from specific to tribal levels, including size, shape, colour, cell size and shape of the thecae, downwards extensions from the thecae (spurs or tails), the apex and base of the connective between the thecae, the antheropodium that joins the connective to the filament and the filament itself. We investigate variation in these staminal features in 88 species of ten genera of Asteraceae subfamily Barnadesioideae, the sister group of the rest of the family. A new morphological categorization of antheropodia and anther bases is presented, features that show the widest ranges of variation in the subfamily. Other characters, such as apices of the connectives and fusion of filaments, are less variable. Six staminal characters are optimized on a molecular phylogenetic tree for Barnadesioideae. Putative plesiomorphies for the ancestor of the subfamily are hypothesized to be entire apices of the connectives, antheropodia shorter than the basal appendages and filaments free and glabrous. The ancestral conditions for pollen sac extension and for attachment of anthers on the corolla tube are equivocal. Hypotheses are offered on the possible adaptive function of staminal features, such that antheropodia seem significant in structural support of the thecal tube and that spurs and tails may function in protecting the basal portion of the thecae from insect probing.
How does a C3 epiphytic tank bromeliad respond to drought?
Authors: Gobara Bruno Nobuya Katayama , Alves Frederico Rocha Rodrigues , Pikart Filipe Christian , Gonçalves Ana Zangirolame , Santos Deborah Yara Alves Cursino Dos , Pinna Gladys Flávia De Albuquerque Melo De , Mercier Helenice
Published: November 2019

Intermittent water availability characterizes the canopy habitat, but few studies have focused on how C3 epiphytic bromeliads deal with drought. In this context, we investigated how water deficits affect the photosynthetic responses of the epiphytic bromeliad Vriesea gigantea regarding its physiological and anatomical traits that can minimize the effects of stomatal closure. In a controlled experiment in which bromeliads were submitted to 21 days of drought, we demonstrated a reduction in the leaf water content followed by strong reductions in net CO2 exchange and the efficiency of the photochemical system. However, there were increases in the yield of non-photochemical quenching and the activities of hydrophilic antioxidants. We observed substomatal chambers connected with air channels reaching the chlorophyllous parenchyma. Our findings indicate that the low net CO2 exchange and the energy imbalance possibly increased the cyclic transport of electrons and activated the thermal dissipation of energy to avoid damage to the photosynthetic apparatus. Additionally, the aeration channels may passively store CO2 to facilitate its re-assimilation. Because most epiphytic bromeliads are C3 plants and drought is frequent in the canopy, we speculate that some attributes of V. gigantea may occur in other C3 species, favouring their radiation in the epiphytic environment.
Etymology and the neuron(e)
Authors: Mehta Arpan R , Mehta Puja R , Anderson Stephen P , MacKinnon Barbara L H , Compston Alastair
Published: November 2019

‘Neuron’ or ‘neurone’? While it is often assumed that these different spellings reflect usage of American versus British English, there are also inconsistencies within these cultural boundaries. Mehta et al. review historical, etymological and linguistic evidence concerning the spelling of ‘neuron(e)’ and conclude that the only correct spelling is ‘neuron’.
Neural effects of elevated CO2 in fish may be amplified by a vicious cycle
Authors: Schunter Celia , Ravasi Timothy , Munday Philip L , Nilsson Göran E
Published: November 2019

Lay summaries:

The altered behaviours of fish exposed to elevated CO2 have been linked to changes in ion gradients and neurotransmitter function. To explain how relatively small changes in ion concentrations could have such profound neural effects, we propose that a vicious cycle can be triggered that amplifies the initial disturbance.
Competitive Preferences and Ethnicity: Experimental Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Siddique Abu , Vlassopoulos Michael
Published: November 2019

We investigate whether aversion to competing against members of the ethnically dominant group could be a contributing factor to the persistent disadvantageous socioeconomic position of ethnic minorities. We conducted a lab-in-the-field experiment in rural Bangladesh, randomly assigning participants into groups with different ethnic composition. We find that the ethnic minority group (Santal) are less likely to compete in groups where they are a numerical minority than when all competitors are co-ethnic, whereas the reverse is true for the ethnic majority group (Bengali). Further analysis suggests that differences in social power and status underpin these differences in preferences for interethnic competition.
The efficacy and safety of prophylactic corticosteroids for the prevention of adverse outcomes in patients undergoing heart surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ng Ka Ting , Van Paassen Judith , Langan Clare , Sarode Deep Pramod , Arbous M Sesmu , Alston R Peter , Dekkers Olaf M
Published: November 2019

Corticosteroids are often administered prophylactically to attenuate the inflammatory response associated with cardiac surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). However, the efficacy and safety profile of corticosteroids remain uncertain. The primary aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effect of corticosteroids on mortality in adult cardiac surgery using CPB. Secondary aims were to examine the effect of corticosteroids on myocardial adverse events, pulmonary adverse events, atrial fibrillation, surgical site infection, gastrointestinal bleeding and duration of stay in the intensive care unit and hospital. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were systematically searched in electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL and Web of Science) from their inception until March 2019. Observational studies, case reports, case series and literature reviews were excluded. Sixty-two studies (n = 16 457 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. There was no significant difference in mortality between the corticosteroid and placebo groups [odds ratio (OR) 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81–1.14; P = 0.65, participants = 14 693, studies = 24, evidence of certainty: moderate]. Compared to those receiving a placebo, patients who were given corticosteroids had a significantly higher incidence of myocardial adverse events (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.03–1.33; P = 0.01, participants = 14 512, studies = 23) and a lower incidence of pulmonary adverse events (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.75–0.98; P = 0.02, participants = 13 426, studies = 17). The incidences of atrial fibrillation (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81–0.94; P < 0.001, participants = 14 148, studies = 24) and surgical site infection (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.73–0.90; P < 0.001, participants = 13 946; studies = 22) were all lower in patients who were given corticosteroids. In the present meta-analysis of 62 RCTs (16 457 patients), including the 2 major RCTs (SIRS and DECS trials: 12 001 patients), we found that prophylactic corticosteroids in cardiac surgery did not reduce mortality. The clinical significance of an increase in myocardial adverse events remains unclear as the definition of a relevant myocardial end point following cardiac surgery varied greatly between RCTs.
The Other Student Debt Crisis: How Borrowing to Pay for a Child’s College Education Relates to Parents’ Mental Health at Midlife
Authors: Walsemann Katrina M , Ailshire Jennifer A , Hartnett Caroline Sten
Published: November 2019

Objectives

More parents are borrowing to help their children pay for college. These loans may be a source of financial stress and worry, which could influence parents’ mental health. We determine whether child-related educational debt is associated with worse mental health among parents and if fathers are more sensitive to this debt than mothers, given potential gender differences in financial decision-making and relationships with adult children.

Method

Data come from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979, a nationally representative sample of persons born between 1957 and 1964. We used the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and the Short Form-12 Mental Health Component Score to assess mental health. We restricted our sample to parents who had at least one biological child attend college and who were interviewed at age 50, when mental health was assessed (n = 3,545).

Results

Among fathers, having any child-related educational debt versus none was associated with fewer depressive symptoms, but having greater amounts of child-related educational debt was associated with more depressive symptoms and worse mental health. No relationship was found for mothers.

Discussion

Our findings indicate that the student debt crisis may also have mental health implications for aging parents, particularly for fathers.
Persons With a Migration Background Caring for a Family Member With Dementia: Challenges to Shared Care
Authors: Ahmad Menal , van den Broeke Jennifer , Saharso Sawitri , Tonkens Evelien
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives

By shedding light on the reasons why persons with a migration background (PwM) may take up the role of family caregiver of a person with dementia, and how this relates to gender norms, we aim to elucidate cultural and social dynamics that impede care sharing.

Research Design and Methods

A qualitative study of 12 PwM who provide care, or have recently provided care, for a family member with dementia was conducted through semi-structured interviews. Identified themes and patterns were analyzed with the help of Hochschild’s interpretive framework of framing and feeling rules.

Findings

Our findings illuminate how motivations to provide care are framed through two moral framing rules, reciprocal love and filial responsibility, and how these framing rules are accompanied by the feeling rule of moral superiority over non-caregiving family members. We show how shared dementia care is impeded though these moral framing and feeling rules, and how gender norms impact on an unequal distribution of care-tasks.

Implications

Healthcare practitioners should identify the moral dialectics of caregiving. This means that, on the one hand, they should be aware that moral framing rules may pressure women into exclusive caregiving, and that this can lead to health problems in the long term. On the other, healthcare practitioners should recognize that providing care can create a deep sense of pride and moral superiority. Therefore, showing acknowledgement of the caregiver contribution is a crucial step in creating trust between the caregiver and healthcare practitioner. Furthermore, asking for support should be normalized. Governmental advertisements on care–support can achieve this.
Functional genomics and gene-environment interaction highlight the complexity of congenital heart disease caused by Notch pathway variants
Authors: Chapman Gavin , Moreau Julie L M , I P Eddie , Szot Justin O , Iyer Kavitha R , Shi Hongjun , Yam Michelle X , O’Reilly Victoria C , Enriquez Annabelle , Greasby Joelene A , Alankarage Dimuthu , Martin Ella M M A , Hanna Bernadette C , Edwards Matthew , Monger Steven , Blue Gillian M , Winlaw David S , Ritchie Helen E , Grieve Stuart M , Giannoulatou Eleni , Sparrow Duncan B , Dunwoodie Sally L
Published: November 2019

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect and brings with it significant mortality and morbidity. The application of exome and genome sequencing has greatly improved the rate of genetic diagnosis for CHD but the cause in the majority of cases remains uncertain. It is clear that genetics, as well as environmental influences, play roles in the aetiology of CHD. Here we address both these aspects of causation with respect to the Notch signalling pathway. In our CHD cohort, variants in core Notch pathway genes account for 20% of those that cause disease, a rate that did not increase with the inclusion of genes of the broader Notch pathway and its regulators. This is reinforced by case-control burden analysis where variants in Notch pathway genes are enriched in CHD patients. This enrichment is due to variation in NOTCH1. Functional analysis of some novel missense NOTCH1 and DLL4 variants in cultured cells demonstrate reduced signalling activity, allowing variant reclassification. Although loss-of-function variants in DLL4 are known to cause Adams-Oliver syndrome, this is the first report of a hypomorphic DLL4 allele as a cause of isolated CHD. Finally, we demonstrate a gene-environment interaction in mouse embryos between Notch1 heterozygosity and low oxygen- or anti-arrhythmic drug-induced gestational hypoxia, resulting in an increased incidence of heart defects. This implies that exposure to environmental insults such as hypoxia could explain variable expressivity and penetrance of observed CHD in families carrying Notch pathway variants.
Minor Hematochezia Decreases Use of Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Faye Adam S , Hung Kenneth W , Cheng Kimberly , Blackett John W , Mckenney Anna Sophia , Pont Adam R , Li Jianhua , Lawlor Garrett , Lebwohl Benjamin , Freedberg Daniel E
Published: November 2019

Background

Despite increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) among hospitalized patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pharmacologic prophylaxis rates remain low. We sought to understand the reasons for this by assessing factors associated with VTE prophylaxis in patients with IBD and the safety of its use.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted among patients hospitalized between January 2013 and August 2018. The primary outcome was VTE prophylaxis, and exposures of interest included acute and chronic bleeding. Medical records were parsed electronically for covariables, and logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with VTE prophylaxis.

Results

There were 22,499 patients studied, including 474 (2%) with IBD. Patients with IBD were less likely to be placed on VTE prophylaxis (79% with IBD, 87% without IBD), particularly if hematochezia was present (57% with hematochezia, 86% without hematochezia). Among patients with IBD, admission to a medical service and hematochezia (adjusted odds ratio 0.27; 95% CI, 0.16–0.46) were among the strongest independent predictors of decreased VTE prophylaxis use. Neither hematochezia nor VTE prophylaxis was associated with increased blood transfusion rates or with a clinically significant decline in hemoglobin level during hospitalization.

Conclusion

Hospitalized patients are less likely to be placed on VTE prophylaxis if they have IBD, and hematochezia may drive this. Hematochezia appeared to be minor and was unaffected by VTE prophylaxis. Education related to the safety of VTE prophylaxis in the setting of minor hematochezia may be a high-yield way to increase VTE prophylaxis rates in patients with IBD.
Distortions in firm selection during recessions: a comparison across European countries
Authors: Landini Fabio
Published: November 2019

Recent evidence documents the weakness of market selection based on productivity differentials and the absence of cleansing during recessions. This article argues that a possible explanation lies in the role of competitive rents, i.e. market advantages due to idiosyncrasies of the firm’s demand. Competitive rents allow firms to sustain profit independently of their internal efficiency, creating a selection advantage. During an economic recession, this advantage increases because competitive rents operate as a resilience factor. The process of firm selection can thus be distorted with relatively inefficient firms that manage to survive. These predictions are tested on a sample of French, Italian, and Spanish manufacturing firms, looking at the selection that took place during the Great Recession. Ceteris paribus, firms with competitive rents are less likely to exit than firms without competitive rents. This effect is stronger in countries more severely impacted by the downturn. The implications of these results for policy interventions to sustain aggregate productivity growth are discussed.
Determining key drivers of perceptions of performance of rights-based fisheries in Australia using a Bayesian belief network
Authors: Pascoe Sean , Van Putten Ingrid , Hoshino Eriko , Vieira Simon
Published: November 2019

Rights-based management has been advocated as a means of improving the biological sustainability and economic performance of commercial fisheries. The most common forms of rights-based management implemented are individual transferable catch quotas (ITQs) and individual transferable effort quotas (ITEs). Perceptions of success of these management systems vary, however, with some being considered successful while others have been criticized, especially when broad social outcomes are taken into consideration. In this study, we develop a Bayesian belief network model that considers the underlying governance and social environment in which the fishery operates, along with the characteristics of the fishery. We use data derived from a survey of fishers, managers, and scientists to populate the model from 47 Australian fisheries currently managed through ITQs and ITEs. As well as capturing the characteristics of the fisheries, the survey asked respondents for their perceptions on the overall performance of the management system, as well as its performance against social, economic, environmental, and governance objectives. The results suggest that positive perceptions of management performance are related to the quality of social relationships between fishers, the efficiency in the functioning of quota markets, and the degree to which economic information is used in quota setting.
A Mendelian randomization analysis of circulating lipid traits and breast cancer risk
Authors: Beeghly-Fadiel Alicia , Khankari Nikhil K , Delahanty Ryan J , Shu Xiao-Ou , Lu Yingchang , Schmidt Marjanka K , Bolla Manjeet K , Michailidou Kyriaki , Wang Qin , Dennis Joe , Yannoukakos Drakoulis , Dunning Alison M , Pharoah Paul D P , Chenevix-Trench Georgia , Milne Roger L , Hunter David J , Per Hall , Kraft Peter , Simard Jacques , Easton Douglas F , Zheng Wei
Published: November 2019

Background

Conventional epidemiologic studies have evaluated associations between circulating lipid levels and breast cancer risk, but results have been inconsistent. As Mendelian randomization analyses may provide evidence for causal inference, we sought to evaluate potentially unbiased associations between breast cancer risk and four genetically predicted lipid traits.

Methods

Previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified 164 discrete variants associated with high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides and total cholesterol. We used 162 of these unique variants to construct weighted genetic scores (wGSs) for a total of 101 424 breast cancer cases and 80 253 controls of European ancestry from the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC). Unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between per standard deviation increase in genetically predicted lipid traits and breast cancer risk. Additional Mendelian randomization analysis approaches and sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess pleiotropy and instrument validity.

Results

Corresponding to approximately 15 mg/dL, one standard deviation increase in genetically predicted HDL-C was associated with a 12% increased breast cancer risk (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.08–1.16). Findings were consistent after adjustment for breast cancer risk factors and were robust in several sensitivity analyses. Associations with genetically predicted triglycerides and total cholesterol were inconsistent, and no association for genetically predicted LDL-C was observed.

Conclusions

This study provides strong evidence that circulating HDL-C may be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, whereas LDL-C may not be related to breast cancer risk.
Whole-Genome Analysis of Livestock-Associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Sequence Type 398 Strains Isolated From Patients With Bacteremia in China
Authors: Chen Hongbin , Yin Yuyao , Li Xiaohua , Li Shuguang , Gao Hua , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Yawei , Liu Yudong , Wang Hui
Published: November 2019

Sequence type (ST) 398 is the most prevalent clone of livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). To evaluate the molecular characteristics and phylogeny of Chinese ST398 isolates, 4 MRSA ST398 strains and 4 methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) ST398 strains were collected from patients with bacteremia at 6 teaching hospitals in China between 1999 and 2016. Moreover, 689 ST398 genome sequences were downloaded from the GenBank database for comparison. The 4 MRSA ST398 strains were resistant to β-lactam antibiotics, and 2 strains were also resistant to erythromycin. Among the 4 MSSA ST398 strains, 2 strains displayed multidrug resistance (MDR) and were resistant to penicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline, and gentamicin. The accessory genome of MSSA ST398 was more diverse than that of MRSA ST398. All 4 MRSA ST398 strains carried type V staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec elements; however, MSSA ST398 carried more resistance genes than MRSA ST398. These 4 MRSA ST398 strains carried hemolysin, along with virulence genes associated with immune invasion and protease. Phylogenic analysis showed that the 4 MRSA ST398 strains clustered in 1 clade. The global ST398 phylogeny showed that ST398 was divided into an animal clade and a human clade, and the ST398 strains of this study clustered in the human clade. A small number of human strains were also present in the animal clade and vice versa, suggesting transmission of ST398 between animals and humans. In conclusion, livestock-associated MRSA ST398 has caused severe infections in Chinese hospitals, and it should therefore be paid more attention to and monitored.