bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary phytotoxicity of Mercury in conventional gold mining wastewater on Typha latifolia and Pistia stratiotes
Authors: Nursagita Y S , Titah H S , Purwanti I F
Published: December 2023

Small-scale mining, or conventional mining, is quite common in Indonesia. Almost all of these artisanal mining activities disregard environmental safety around the mining areas. The current widely used gold extraction method for gold exploitation is the amalgamation method, which utilizes mercury (Hg). The use of this method can result in environmental pollution from mercury. Based on the impact of mercury that can contaminate the environment, it is necessary to treat gold mining wastewater before disposing of it into the environment. One alternative that can be used to treat gold mining wastewater is to use plants (phytotreatment). The aims of study was to observe the tolerance of Hg to Typha latifolia and Pistia stratiotes plants, The methods was call the Range Finding Test (RFT). The study was conducted using synthetic Hg at concentrations of 0.3, 0.7, 1, 3, and 6 mg/L and a control (0 mg/L) in a batch reactor. The reactors were added with soil up to 25% as a growing medium. The physical observations of plants were carried out for 28 days. Typha latifolia and Pistia stratiotes could both grow and thrive at a Hg content of 6 mg/L, according to physical observations of the plants. In the first seven days, Pistia stratiotes plants exhibited a stress reaction in the form of yellowing and falling leaves. Both plants had vigorous, extended root development in all concentrations. Based on these findings, phytotreatment can be utilized as an alternate therapy to lower the Hg levels in gold mine wastewater.
Characterization and analysis of shopping mall solid waste composition for refuse derived fuel and black soldier fly (case study: X shopping mall in Central Jakarta City)
Authors: Nurandi N Q , Ruhiyat R , Purwaningrum P
Published: December 2023

This study identified and analysed the composition of solid waste generated by retail malls in Central Jakarta City, with a particular emphasis on determining the potential applications of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technologies. The research involved exhaustive waste samplings, taken at various activities within multiple X shopping mall in order to determine the categories and amounts of waste generated. The collected samples were subjected to a thorough analysis to determine the proportion of organic and inorganic refuse and assess their suitability for processing using the RDF and BSF techniques. The investigation revealed that X Shopping Centre’s solid refuse consists primarily of inorganic waste (77.42%) and organic waste (22.58%). Essential waste characteristic analyses were conducted to determine the combustion energy potential of the inorganic waste, yielding a moisture content of 41%, an ash content of 6%, a volatile matter content of 94%, and a calorific value of 10,502 kcal/kg. Using information on waste composition and characteristics, the study investigated the potential use of RDF and BSF technologies to manage and repurpose the generated waste. The RDF processing potential was calculated to be 8.77 tons per day, while the BSF processing potential was 3.11 tons per day. This estimate illustrates the substantial capacity of these technologies to manage and convert large quantities of refuse into valuable resources. In addition, the study assessed the monetary implications of implementing RDF and BSF technologies in the context of X Shopping Mall. The estimated investment required to implement these technologies is 11,198,926,800 IDR.
Geospatial Approach for MSMEs Business Continuity Plan in Post Pandemic Era in Malaysia
Authors: Lehan Nur F. A. M. , Kamarudin Khairul H.
Published: December 2023

Malaysia’s Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 Strategic Thrust 1 stated that the business and industry ecosystem to be strengthened and expected to contribute almost 50% of the country’s GDP. This agenda is indeed in line with Goal 11 of UN-SDG that aims to develop sustainable and resilient cities and communities by 2030. However, due to the result of the global pandemic in 2020, many micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly tourism-services oriented, were heavily affected and, unfortunately, the last to recover. The industry suffered a significant decline in revenue due to halting of operations, travel bans, and lockdowns resulting in delays to the continuity plan of business operations. As a result, there was a reduction in workforce and some of MSMEs were forced to cease their operations. Based on questionnaire-guided interviews of 53 respondents, this paper firstly will deliberate extensive review of the impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on MSMEs in East Malaysia state of Sabah, particularly in tourism-centric regions of Kundasang and Kota Belud areas. Secondly, the explanation of smart GIS solutions through network analyses, in helping MSMEs rejuvenate their business operations as soon as possible during and after the disaster events. The results from GIS Network Analysis for disaster event simulation and outputs show that each case study region reflected differently according to different disaster types and intensities. From the outputs, the study proposed an integrated framework consisting of MSMEs’ capital of economic, social, and environmental problem-solving phase, together with an operational framework of Disaster-Business Continuity Plan (DBCP).
Assessing Land Cover Change Projections and Its Suitability with Urban Spatial Pattern Plan Using Google Earth Engine and Cellular Automata in the National Activity Centres on Sumatera Island
Authors: Sukmawati Dian P. , Simorangkir Joseph A. , Juniati Rohmah , Rahmad Arni S.
Published: December 2023

The national activity centres (Pusat Kegiatan Nasional – PKN) areas, especially in Sumatera Island, are closely related to the land cover change phenomenon. This study aimed to identify the land cover change projection and assess its suitability with the spatial pattern plan in the “Rencana Tata Ruang Wilayah” (RTRW) which focuses on the study area including Medan, Pekanbaru, and Padang. The integration of remote sensing data, geographic information systems (GIS), and spatial analysis techniques are used to identify and assess the patterns of land cover change over the specific period. The analysis of land cover change patterns is performed using Landsat-7 and Sentinel-2A imagery data which processed in Google Earth Engine (GEE). Furthermore, Cellular Automata and Artificial Neural Network (CA-ANN) modelling is used to identify land cover prediction using transition rules like main road as driving factor then followed by overlay analysis to assess its suitability with the spatial pattern plan. The result shows the different level of each land cover classification in sub-district level. The proportion of the land cover projection suitability in Medan at 2042 was 84,92%; in Pekanbaru at 2040 was only 58,51%; while in Padang at 2030 was 77%. This findings can be able to serve as a suggestion for stakeholders in formulating effective strategies for spatial planning evaluation and managing land cover uses, especially in several national activity centers in Sumatera.
Mapping Vulnerability to Flood in Urbanizing Watershed: The Case of Surakarta Urban Region
Authors: Rahayu Paramita
Published: December 2023

The vulnerability of urban areas to flooding increased along with the rapid urbanization process. The study selected the Subosukawonosraten (Surakarta, Boyolali, Sukoharjo, Karanganyar, Wonogiri, Sragen, and Klaten) Region as a case study to assess the vulnerability. The ESA framework: exposure, sensitivity, and adaptability—is applied. Exposure is examined using the built-up index in 2020. Sensitivity is assessed based on population density in 2020. Additionally, precipitation and topography are also discussed. The study uses hot spot analysis to pinpoint the most populated and developed areas of the region, which are Surakarta and its peri-urban. Following that, the study investigates to what extent urban villages situated in this hot spot can adapt in light of the floods that often occur in the region. The findings imply that, primarily because of rapid urbanization, the strategy to deal with vulnerability should be considered an important regional-scale strategy that should integrate technical and community-based development approaches to establish a more sustainable strategy for resiliency.
Making a Resilient Community: Preparedness of Vulnerable Communities in Disaster Mitigation Based on Disaster Risk Map
Authors: Margarena Candra , Pradipta Hendra T. , Utomo Lieonardo N. , Muhammad Syarif K. , Manurung Melisa A.
Published: December 2023

A natural disaster is a phenomenon that causes loss and has an effect on society, specifically on vulnerable society. This research mentions vulnerable communities as women and children. In order to reduce disaster impact on vulnerable communities, it is essential to examine the preparedness level of the community. Slawi is one of the urban areas in Tegal Regency with a dense population and the potential for natural disasters. The objective is to embody a resilient community by increasing vulnerable communities’ preparedness in disaster mitigation. The method used is qualitative, and the main data collection technique is through Focus Group Discussion using participatory mapping analysis with the help of GIS. The result shows that vulnerable communities already know and understand their task and roles in disaster mitigation. Some crucial factors affect vulnerable communities’ preparedness levels in disaster mitigation. There are risk-understanding levels, knowledge of disaster mitigation precisely, and collaboration among local organizations. The urgency of government role and institution-related to provide guidance, training, and resources are needed to strengthen the vulnerable community preparedness. This research expects to provide stakeholders, regulation makers, practitioners, and academics with the knowledge to actualize a resilient community. With the increased preparedness level of vulnerable communities, the disaster impact on communities can be reduced, and they can be more resilient in dealing with natural disasters.
Mapping Urban Disaster Adaptation Typology of Cebolok Community of Semarang City
Authors: Purnomo Maya S. , Esariti Landung
Published: December 2023

The concept of urban resilience is related to disaster risk management. A city that is resilience can be indicated from the adaptive capacity of the community to stress and shock, preparedness when a disaster occurs, and quick recovery after a disaster. This article explores strategies for increasing urban resilience as community adaptation measures for reducing the risk of flood disasters in urban villages of Cebolok, Semarang. Quantitative method was used by distributing questionnaires and in depth-surveys to 40 households. Results show 2 evidences. First, Cebolok Community modified their housing as a form of physical adaptation to floods. Second, it confirms that community adaptation strategy is related to necessity in maintaining livelihood assets.
Typology Mapping of Small Border Islands in the Context of Optimizing the Role as a Center for Regional Growth and Environmental Supporting Capacity in Anambas Islands Regency
Authors: Ma’rif Samsul , Hadi Sudharto P. , Maryono Maryono
Published: December 2023

As an autonomous region consisting of a cluster of small islands in the northern border area of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, Anambas Islands Regency has a remote geographical location, inadequate transportation conditions, and limitations in providing infrastructure, especially basic service infrastructure. The implication of the role as an autonomous region, raises the existence of growth centers on a district scale and other scale growth centers along with economic activities in them on several existing small islands. The role as a growth center on small islands requires the continued provision of sufficient production and distribution resources to meet population consumption growth. The sustainability of the carrying capacity of the environment on the one hand is faced with the role and function of small border islands as regional growth centers that have the potential to develop in the future on the other hand. Based on these problems, it is necessary to map the typology of small islands in order to optimize the role as a center for regional growth and environmental carrying capacity in Anambas Islands Regency. By mapping the typology of small border islands, policy directions for sustainable regional development can be determined for each small border island.
The Efficacy of Coastal Road Development to Protect West Coast of Jepara from Abrasion and Future Sea Level Rise
Authors: Setiadi Rukuh , Wibowo Septian S. , Putri Elisa R. , Handoyo Razzaq R. , Puteri Citra I. K. , Dewi Amalia A. A.
Published: December 2023

This study examines the discourse of developing a coastal road as a solution to protect the western coast of Jepara in the long term from the threat of coastal hazards and climate change. Therefore, attempts to understand the coastal conditions of Jepara in the past, present and future are critical. This study shows the abrasion in the region is inseparable from the history of this area which was formed by the material deposition of Mount Muria. At present, the coastal conditions particularly in Kedung and Tahunan Districts are very prone to abrasion. A result of the Digital Shoreline Analysis System over the last two decades (2001-2020) showed a shift on Kedung District’s coastline ranging from 78-701 meters landward, while it was about 1.4-36.8 meters landward and 10.3-34.5 meters to the seaward in Tahunan District. Analysis of land cover and land use show that most of the loss of land due to abrasion were ponds, rice fields, and settlements. Sea level rise will exacerbate this condition. With the projection of global sea level rise which increase by 21 cm in 2060 and by 53 cm in 2100, ponds, irrigated rice fields and settlements in this region will be submerged with an economic loss of IDR 2.97-3.06 trillion or nearly to USD 205 million. Our study concludes that the construction of coastal road will not provide much of the expected protection function, unless the development of supporting infrastructure, especially polders, and several other supporting options, are developed in an integrated manner.
Land Use and Surface Runoff Change in Babon Watershed Semarang Greater Area
Authors: Prihestiwi Rosa C. , Handayani Wiwandari , Sarasadi Annisa
Published: December 2023

Babon is a watershed in Central Java that passes through the Semarang Regency, Semarang City, and Demak Regency. Most of the areas in Babon Watershed are potential residential locations for the community because they are situated on the outskirts of Semarang City. Over the past 20 years, Babon Watershed has experienced a change in land use from agriculture and plantations to residential areas. There have also been flooding incidents in several housing areas along the Babon River. The Semarang City Government currently focuses on developing watersheds in the central and western parts. However, no government intervention has yet to develop the eastern watershed, especially the Babon watershed. Babon watershed management is tricky because three regions pass it, so good governance collaboration from the government and related stakeholders is essential. Therefore, the research aims to assess land use and surface runoff change in the Babon watershed. The research method is quantitative. Data collection methods are secondary data collection and field observations. Data analysis methods are spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems to determine land use changes and the infiltration areas in the Babon watershed in 2013 and 2023; also analysis of surface runoff water discharge using the rational method. Based on the research results, the Babon watershed has experienced significant changes in land use, with non-developed areas being transformed into developed lands. The increasing transformation from non-developed to developed lands impacts water infiltration areas.
Spatial Development of Towns and Their Potential in Strengthening Rural-Urban Linkages in Kabupaten Semarang
Authors: Arsynindia Lutfia D. , Mardiansjah Fadjar H.
Published: December 2023

Contemporary urbanization process in Indonesia has been entering a regional-based process, which is indicated by the expansion of existing cities and the emergence of small towns in hinterland areas. Semarang Regency is a nonurban district that become hinterland area that is affected by urban extension from Semarang City. The urbanization process in Semarang Regency is characterized by the emergence of towns as urban areas on the outskirts of. This research aims to analyze the development of towns in Semarang Regency using GIS assistance and analyzing their potential in strengthening rural-urban linkages. In addition to GIS method, this research employs descriptive qualitative method. Data collected through document and literature review, which is enriched by primary data collection through observation and interviews. The analysis used descriptive qualitative analysis. To strengthen the argument, analysis is assisted by using scalogram, ISM, LQ, and spatial analysis in the form of network analysis. There are many towns developed in Semarang Regency that tend to be concentrated in the north-west area, adjacent to Semarang City. The development of these towns is supported by the development of public service facilities. In addition to be the public service centers, the towns have potential roles as, processing and marketing centers. However, there is only one town, Bandungan, which has the roles as a center for marketing and public services. Therefore, the regency needs to have facilities development in many towns in order to strengthen the towns’ roles in strengthening rural-urban linkages in the region.
Mapping the Inhibiting Factors of Women’s Role in Rural Development: A Case Study of Bejijong Village, East Java Province
Authors: Charani Maulidia S. , Hasanati Surani , Rijanta Raden
Published: December 2023

SDGs Desa are the policy framework of village development and village community empowerment to achieve sustainable development goals in Indonesia. SDGs Desa in 2030 has one of the targets, which is to community in a fair position without discrimination against women in all aspects of life. In addition, equal opportunities are opened for women in public affairs. This can be achieved by the achievement of all indicators of SDGs Desa goal 5 ‘Involvement of Village Women’ based on the Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration of the Republic Indonesia. The involvement of women’s roles in village development is influenced by various things, one of which is a barrier. This is due to women’s responsibilities in carrying out domestic roles so that some of them have limitations to be actively involved in village development. Therefore, this research aims to identify inhibiting factors of women’s roles in development in Bejijong Village, Trowulan Sub-district, Mojokerto Regency, East Java Province. The research was conducted using a deductive qualitative method through field observations, interviews with stakeholders, and documentation. Stakeholders interviewed included government, village organizations, and non-governmental organizations. The results showed that there are inhibiting factors in the form of demands for domestic roles. Even so, village development activities involving the role of women continue because there are women in Bejijong Village who can overcome these inhibiting factors and are active in the public sphere. In overcoming these inhibiting factors, women are supported by family support and adequate facilities from the village government. Keywords: women’s role, rural development, sustainable development; inhibiting’s factors mapping, Bejijong Village, Mojokerto Regency.
The Relevance of Vertical Housing to the Socio-Economic Characteristics of Occupants in Semarang City, Indonesia: Particularly the Proximity of Public Facility Aspects
Authors: Manaf Asnawi , Ginting Lidya P. , Irwansyah Mirza
Published: December 2023

Population growth and economic development can lead to increased housing demand amid limitations and rising land prices in the City of Semarang, Indonesia. One effort to overcome this challenge has involved shifting the approach to providing shelter to building vertical housing. However, various problems have emerged which suggest that vertical housing is not currently relevant to the socio-economic characteristics of its inhabitants. Thus, this study aims to determine the relevance of vertical housing to residents’ socio-economic characteristics particularly in proximity of public facility aspects. To achieve the research objective, this research uses quantitative research method. Importance–performance analysis (IPA) uses to determine the relevance of vertical housing to residents’ socio-economic characteristics and geospasial tools use to analyze descriptively the proximity of public facilities. Based on the relevance analysis, it can be concluded that the relevance between residents in apartments and residents in flats has some differences. This could happen because of differences in the location and financial capability of residents in apartment and flat. Performance improvement is needed, especially on economic factors for apartments and accessibility factors for low-cost flats so that vertical housing can become more relevant. Therefore, these findings can become input in formulating a policy for providing affordable vertical housing in the Semarang that is well-suited to the socio-economic characteristics of its inhabitants.
The impact of environmental trade policy on regional greenhouse gas management
Authors: Mikhno I , Koval V , Filipishyna L , Legeza D , Motornyi M , Gonchar V
Published: December 2023

The study analyzes the environmental condition of regions to analyze the need to implement changes in environmental trade policy to reduce greenhouse gases and anthropogenic impacts on the regional ecosystem. Identified ways to reduce greenhouse gases, one of which is to change consumer preferences in favor of purchasing eco-friendly products. These have a minimal negative impact on the ecosystem during the life cycle without creating a large number of greenhouse gases during production that can be recycled. The study analyzes the possibilities of reducing the ecological footprint due to changes in energy consumption as the main tool for overcoming the accumulation of negative environmental effects. The environmental damage caused by the war in Ukraine is more than 50 million dollars. The environmental impact of the war in Ukraine is more than $50 million, which can be reduced through a complete reorganisation of the country’s production and everyday life. The study substantiates the environmental trade policy aimed at reducing greenhouse gases and introducing the latest technologies and digitalization achievements. Regional management of greenhouse gas emissions is proposed based on the possibility of selling one’s emissions quotas to other countries to reduce the negative environmental footprint.
Optimization of forestry indirect and direct taxation in sustainable development conditions
Authors: Pavelko O , Osadcha O , Myronets M , Los Z , Koshchynets M , Uhryn L
Published: December 2023

The indirect and direct taxation mechanism is examined in the article. It is determined that a significant place in total income part of the Ukraine’s state budget is occupied by indirect taxes, but the larger share falls on direct taxes. The structure and dynamics of indirect taxes in budget of Ukraine were carried out. The biggest disadvantages of the taxation existing system are established. It is suggested to add new principles to the legislative principles of taxation, their compliance will strengthen the country’s tax system. The indicators of the tax burden and profitability of three business forestry entities are analyzed. It was established the existence of a closeness between the tax burden and the financial results of forestry companies via using the coefficients of correlation and determination. Ways to improve indirect and direct taxation in Ukraine in terms of some indirect taxes are proposed (VAT, excise tax and toll). The problems of applying the environmental tax in Ukraine are identified and ways to eliminate them are suggested. The new formula for calculating the single forest tax is developed. The advantages of its use are substantiated.
Detection of common EEG phenomena using individual electrodes placed outside the hair
Authors: Schalk Gerwin , Shao Shiyun , Xiao Kewei , Wu Zehan
Published: December 2023

Many studies over the past decades have provided exciting evidence that electrical signals recorded from the scalp (electroencephalogram, EEG) hold meaningful information about the brain’s function or dysfunction. This information is used routinely in research laboratories to test specific hypotheses and in clinical settings to aid in diagnoses (such as during polysomnography evaluations). Unfortunately, with very few exceptions, such meaningful information about brain function has not yet led to valuable solutions that can address the needs of many people outside such research laboratories or clinics. One of the major hurdles to practical application of EEG-based neurotechnologies is the current predominant requirement to use electrodes that are placed in the hair, which greatly reduces practicality and cosmesis. While several studies reported results using one specific combination of signal/reference electrode outside the hair in one specific context (such as a brain-computer interface experiment), it has been unclear what information about brain function can be acquired using different signal/referencing locations placed outside the hair. To address this issue, in this study, we set out to determine to what extent EEG phenomena related to auditory, visual, cognitive, motor, and sleep function can be detected from different combinations of individual signal/referencing electrodes that are placed outside the hair. The results of our study from 15 subjects suggest that only a few EEG electrodes placed in locations on the forehead or around the ear can provide substantial task-related information in 6 of 7 tasks. Thus, the results of our study provide encouraging evidence and guidance that should invigorate and facilitate the translation of laboratory experiments into practical, useful, and valuable EEG-based neurotechnology solutions.
A comprehensive review on microchannel heat sinks for electronics cooling
Authors: Yu Zhi-Qiang , Li Mo-Tong , Cao Bing-Yang
Published: December 2023

The heat generation of electronic devices is increasing dramatically, which causes a serious bottleneck in the thermal management of electronics, and overheating will result in performance deterioration and even device damage. With the development of micro-machining technologies, the microchannel heat sink (MCHS) has become one of the best ways to remove the considerable amount of heat generated by high-power electronics. It has the advantages of large specific surface area, small size, coolant saving and high heat transfer coefficient. This paper comprehensively takes an overview of the research progress in MCHSs and generalizes the hotspots and bottlenecks of this area. The heat transfer mechanisms and performances of different channel structures, coolants, channel materials and some other influencing factors are reviewed. Additionally, this paper classifies the heat transfer enhancement technology and reviews the related studies on both the single-phase and phase-change flow and heat transfer. The comprehensive review is expected to provide a theoretical reference and technical guidance for further research and application of MCHSs in the future.
Impact of surfactant-assisted synthesis on the structural, optical, and dielectric characteristics of ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Singh Rajveer , Gautam Meenakshi
Published: December 2023

In this study, the enhancement of ZnO’s dielectric properties is pursued through the manipulation of its particle size using a surfactant-based approach. The synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles with the aid of surfactants is achieved through the sol–gel method. Through x-ray diffraction analysis, the formation of the desired Wurtzite structure is confirmed, with no secondary phases detected. The surface characteristics of the synthesized powders are examined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), both of which highlight the even distribution of the surfactant-assisted nanoparticles. The crystallite size is quantified using Scherrer’s formula. UV-visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence are employed to delve into the optical properties. Dielectric behavior is assessed across a frequency range of 20 Hz to 4000 kHz at room temperature. Comparative analysis between ZnO samples grown with and without surfactants reveals that those with surfactant assistance display heightened capacitance, a notably higher dielectric constant, increased AC conductivity, and longer transit time.
Systematic analysis of the transcriptional landscape of melanoma reveals drug-target expression plasticity
Authors: Balderson Brad , Fane Mitchell , Harvey Tracey J , Piper Michael , Smith Aaron , Bodén Mikael
Published: December 2023

Metastatic melanoma originates from melanocytes of the skin. Melanoma metastasis results in poor treatment prognosis for patients and is associated with epigenetic and transcriptional changes that reflect the developmental program of melanocyte differentiation from neural crest stem cells. Several studies have explored melanoma transcriptional heterogeneity using microarray, bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing technologies to derive data-driven models of the transcriptional-state change which occurs during melanoma progression. No study has systematically examined how different models of melanoma progression derived from different data types, technologies and biological conditions compare. Here, we perform a cross-sectional study to identify averaging effects of bulk-based studies that mask and distort apparent melanoma transcriptional heterogeneity; we describe new transcriptionally distinct melanoma cell states, identify differential co-expression of genes between studies and examine the effects of predicted drug susceptibilities of different cell states between studies. Importantly, we observe considerable variability in drug-target gene expression between studies, indicating potential transcriptional plasticity of melanoma to down-regulate these drug targets and thereby circumvent treatment. Overall, observed differences in gene co-expression and predicted drug susceptibility between studies suggest bulk-based transcriptional measurements do not reliably gauge heterogeneity and that melanoma transcriptional plasticity is greater than described when studies are considered in isolation.
Revealing the phosphate-solubilizing characteristics and mechanisms of the plant growth-promoting bacterium Agrobacterium deltaense C1
Authors: Chang Wenying , Yang Caiyun , Liu Ting , Tian Peili , Zhang Siqi , Dai Xianzhu , Igarashi Yasuo , Luo Feng
Published: December 2023

Aims

This study explores the phosphate (Pi)-solubilizing characteristics and mechanisms of a novel phosphate-solubilizing bacterium, Agrobacterium deltaense C1 (C1 hereafter).

Methods and results

The growth-promoting effects of C1 were investigated by gnotobiotic experiments, and the Pi-solubilizing mechanism was revealed by extracellular metabolomics, liquid chromatography analysis, and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results showed that C1 significantly increased Arabidopsis biomass and total phosphorus (P) content under P deficiency. Under Ca3(PO4)2 condition, the presence of C1 resulted in a significant and negative correlation between available P content and medium pH changes, implying that Pi dissolution occurs through acid release. Metabolomics revealed C1’s ability to release 99 organic acids, with gluconic acid (GA), citric acid, and α-ketoglutaric acid contributing 64.86%, 9.58%, and 0.94%, respectively, to Pi solubilization. These acids were significantly induced by P deficiency. Moreover, C1’s Pi solubilization may remain significant even in the presence of available P, as evidenced by substantial pH reduction and high gcd gene expression. Additionally, C1 produced over 10 plant growth-promoting substances.

Conclusions

C1 dissolves Pi primarily by releasing GA, which enhances plant growth under P deficiency. Notably, its Pi solubilization effect is not significantly limited by available Pi.
The cosmic dipole in the Quaia sample of quasars: a Bayesian analysis
Authors: Mittal Vasudev , Oayda Oliver T , Lewis Geraint F
Published: December 2023

We present a Bayesian analysis of the Quaia sample of 1.3 million quasars as a test of the cosmological principle. This principle postulates that the Universe is homogeneous and isotropic on sufficiently large scales, forming the basis of prevailing cosmological models. However, recent analyses of quasar samples have found a matter dipole inconsistent with the inferred kinematic dipole of the cosmic microwave background (CMB), representing a tension with the expectations of the cosmological principle. Here, we explore various hypotheses for the distribution of quasars in Quaia, finding that the sample is influenced by selection effects with significant contamination near the Galactic Plane. After excising these regions, we find significant evidence that the Quaia quasar dipole is consistent with the CMB dipole, both in terms of the expected amplitude and direction. This result is in conflict with recent analyses, lending support to the cosmological principle and the interpretation that the observed dipole is due to our local departure from the Hubble flow.
New dwarf galaxy candidates in the sphere of influence of the Sombrero galaxy
Authors: Crosby Ethan , Jerjen Helmut , Müller Oliver , Pawlowski Marcel S , Mateo Mario , Lelli Federico
Published: December 2023

We report the discovery of 40 new satellite dwarf galaxy candidates in the sphere of influence of the Sombrero Galaxy (M104), the most luminous galaxy in the Local Volume. Using the Subaru Hyper Suprime-Cam, we surveyed 14.4 deg2 of its surroundings, extending to the virial radius. Visual inspection of the deep images and galfit modelling yielded a galaxy sample highly complete down to Mg ∼ −9 ($L_{g}\sim 3\times 10^{5}\ \mathrm{ L}_\odot$) and spanning magnitudes −16.4 < Mg < −8 and half-light radii 50 pc < re < 1600 pc assuming the distance of M104. These 40 new candidates, out of which 27 are group members with high confidence, double the number of potential satellites of M104 within the virial radius, placing it among the richest hosts in the Local Volume. Using a principal component analysis, we find that the entire sample of candidates is consistent with an almost circular on-sky distribution, more circular than any comparable environment found in the Illustris TNG100-1 (The Next Generation) simulation. However, the distribution of the high-probability sample is more oblate and consistent with the simulation. The cumulative satellite luminosity function is broadly consistent with analogues from the simulation, albeit it contains no bright satellite with Mg < −16.4 ($L_{g}\sim 3 \times 10^{8}\ \mathrm{ L}_\odot$), a $2.3\, \sigma$ occurrence. Follow-up spectroscopy to confirm group membership will begin to demonstrate how these systems can act as probes of the structure and formation history of the halo of M104.
The SAMI Galaxy Survey: ΣSFR drives the presence of complex emission-line profiles in star-forming galaxies
Authors: Zovaro Henry R M , Mendel J Trevor , Groves Brent , Kewley Lisa J , Colless Matthew , Ristea Andrei , Cortese Luca , Oh Sree , D’Eugenio Francesco , Croom Scott M , López-Sánchez Ángel R , van de Sande Jesse , Brough Sarah , Medling Anne M , Bland-Hawthorn Joss , Bryant Julia J
Published: December 2023

Galactic fountains driven by star formation result in a variety of kinematic structures such as ionized winds and thick gas discs, both of which manifest as complex emission-line profiles that can be parametrized by multiple Gaussian components. We use integral field spectroscopy from the SAMI Galaxy Survey to spectrally resolve these features, traced by broad ${\rm H}\alpha$ components, and distinguish them from the star-forming (SF) thin disc, traced by narrow components, in 3068 galaxies in the local Universe. Using a matched sample analysis technique, we demonstrate that the presence of complex emission-line profiles in SF galaxies is most strongly correlated with the global star formation rate (SFR) surface density of the host galaxy measured within 1Re ($\Sigma _{{\rm SFR},\, R_{\rm e}}$), even when controlling for both observational biases, including inclination, amplitude-to-noise and angular scale, and sample biases in parameters such as stellar mass and SFR. Leveraging the spatially resolved nature of the data set, we determine that the presence of complex emission-line profiles within individual spaxels is driven not only by the local ΣSFR, but by the $\Sigma _{{\rm SFR},\, R_{\rm e}}$ of the host galaxy. We also parametrize the clumpiness of the SFR within individual galaxies, and find that $\Sigma _{{\rm SFR},\, R_{\rm e}}$ is a stronger predictor of the presence of complex emission-line profiles than clumpiness. We conclude that, with a careful treatment of observational effects, it is possible to identify structures traced by complex emission-line profiles, including winds and thick ionized gas discs, at the spatial and spectral resolution of SAMI using the Gaussian decomposition technique.
General relativistic simulations of high-mass binary neutron star mergers: rapid formation of low-mass stellar black holes
Authors: Çokluk Kutay A , Yakut Kadri , Giacomazzo Bruno
Published: December 2023

Almost a hundred compact binary mergers have been detected via gravitational waves by the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA collaboration in the past few years providing us with a significant amount of new information on black holes and neutron stars. In addition to observations, numerical simulations using newly developed modern codes in the field of gravitational wave physics will guide us to understand the nature of single and binary degenerate systems and highly energetic astrophysical processes. We here presented a set of new fully general relativistic hydrodynamic simulations of high-mass binary neutron star systems using the open-source EINSTEIN TOOLKIT and LORENE codes. We considered systems with total baryonic masses ranging from 2.8$\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ to 4.0$\, \mathrm{M}_\odot$ and used the SLy equation of state. We analysed the gravitational wave signal for all models and report potential indicators of systems undergoing rapid collapse into a black hole that could be observed by future detectors like the Einstein Telescope and the Cosmic Explorer. The properties of the post-merger black hole, the disc and ejecta masses, and their dependence on the binary parameters were also extracted. We also compared our numerical results with recent analytical fits presented in the literature and provided parameter-dependent semi-analytical relations between the total mass and mass ratio of the systems and the resulting black hole masses and spins, merger frequency, BH formation time, ejected mass, disc mass, and radiated gravitational wave energy.
Rundle’s Curve: A Useful Construct That Does Not Fit All.
Authors: Cruz Antonio A V , Guimarães Juliana A , Garcia Denny M
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to analyze Rundle’s original data and subsequent articles on Graves orbitopathy (GO) natural history.

Methods:

Rundle’s texts were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Serial measurements were plotted and fitted with different functions. Subsequent articles in the English literature on the natural history of GO were also analyzed.

Results:

Different functions such as simple linear regressions, parabolic, saturating exponential growth, and exponential decay functions were well fitted for Rundle’s data on measurements of proptosis and supraduction along time. The few quantitative data of the same variables post-Rundle were also well-fitted with various functions.

Conclusion:

Rundle described in his articles, from 1945 to 1957, 2 phases of ocular changes in GO: dynamic and static. However, he did not mention the pathophysiology of these phases nor used the terms inflammatory and cicatricial. Actually, most of his observations and the subsequent data in the literature on proptosis and supraduction did not obey the biphasic pattern of the so-called Rundle’s curve.
Molecular Biomarkers in Thyroid Eye Disease: A Literature Review
Authors: Ueland Hans Olav , Neset Mikael Thomassen , Methlie Paal , Ueland Grethe Åstrøm , Pakdel Farzad , Rødahl Eyvind
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves disease. Patients may be severely affected with eyelid retraction, exophthalmos, diplopia, pain, and threatened vision. Autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor have shown associations with pathophysiological and clinical traits. Autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor is in current clinical use as biomarker, but not with unambiguous diagnostic performance. A biomarker with high diagnostic accuracy and/or prognostic capability would be of immense value in diagnosing TED, especially in subclinical cases or when TED precedes the thyroid dysfunction. This article is a literature review on molecular biomarkers of TED.

Methods:

A literature search was performed using PubMed and Embase. Studies on molecular biomarkers in blood, tear fluid, and urine were included in the review.

Results:

Forty-six papers were included, of which 30, 14, and 2 studies on biomarkers in blood, tears, and urine, respectively. Fourteen of the papers evaluated the diagnostic performance of various biomarkers, 12 in blood and 2 in tears. Most studies evaluated single biomarkers, but 3 tested a panel of several markers. Except for autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor, the reported diagnostic performances for the biomarkers were not confirmed in independent cohorts. In 32 studies, no or insufficient performance data were given, but the findings indicated involvement of various biologic mechanisms in TED including inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, lipid metabolism, and ocular surface microflora.

Conclusions:

Currently, serum autoantibodies against thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor is the only molecular biomarker with clinical utility in patients with TED. Several potential biomarkers have been investigated, and particularly panels of multiple biomarkers in tears are promising. To improve patient care, biomarkers in TED should be studied further.
Association of Patient Age and the Thyroid Eye Disease-Clinical Activity Score
Authors: North Victoria S. , Zhou Henry W. , Tran Ann Q. , Godfrey Kyle J. , Kazim Michael
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To investigate the association between age and clinical activity score (CAS) in patients with active, untreated thyroid eye disease.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted of patients with active, untreated thyroid eye disease at a single institution between 2010 and 2020 whose ophthalmologic symptoms began no more than 9 months prior to the initial visit. Exclusion criteria included surgical or systemic thyroid eye disease treatment before or during the study period. Demographic and clinical data were collected for all patients, including a 7-point CAS at visit 1 (CAS1) and a 10-point score at visit 2 (CAS2). Patients were stratified by age: Group 1 (18–45), Group 2 (46–70), and Group 3 (71–85).

Results:

A total of 156 patients were included: mean age 51.7 ± 15.8 years, 79.5% female. CAS1 differed significantly across groups: 1.9 ± 1.0 (Group 1), 2.7 ± 1.4 (Group 2), and 2.2 ± 1.6 (Group 3), p = 0.005. Findings were similar for CAS2: 2.2 ± 1.4 (Group 1), 3.0 ± 1.8 (Group 2), and 2.8 ± 1.9 (Group 3), p = 0.030. Post hoc analysis showed a statistically significant difference between Groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.004, visit 1; p = 0.025, visit 2) but not between other pairs. Patients with CAS1 of 0–3 (n = 129) were younger on average than those with CAS1 4–7 (n = 27): 50.4 ± 16.2 versus 58.2 ± 12.8 years (p = 0.009). Conjunctival redness (p = 0.019) and chemosis (p ≤ 0.001) were more common in older patients at both visits.

Conclusions:

Patients aged 46–70 years with active, untreated thyroid eye disease had significantly higher CAS1 and CAS2 than younger patients in this study, largely driven by differences in conjunctival redness and chemosis.
Orbital Decompression: Conceptual Approach for Orbital Volume Expansion
Authors: Goldberg Robert A. , Gout Taras
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To review the advances in the surgical techniques of orbital decompression.

Methods:

A literature review of orbital decompression surgery and experience-based consideration of bony areas for decompression.

Results:

In the 100-year-plus span of orbital decompression literature, multiple incisions and multiple bone and fat removal strategies have been described. In general, bone removal has been conceptualized as consisting of 4 walls of the orbit. However, the orbital bony anatomy is more subtle than a simple box, and considering 6 areas of potential bony removal allows a more nuanced paradigm for clinical decision-making and for understanding various technique descriptions. Historical and current techniques, and surgical planning and decision-making, are described from the perspective of a 6 area paradigm. Potential complications are reviewed.

Conclusion:

A conceptual framework for orbital decompression focusing on 6 potential areas of bone removal provides a nuanced and flexible paradigm for understanding and describing surgical techniques, and for designing individualized surgery. Orbital decompression surgery should be customized to the patient’s anatomy and symptoms.
The current state of apolipoprotein E in dyslipidemia
Authors: Rasmussen Katrine L. , Frikke-Schmidt Ruth
Published: December 2023

Purpose of review

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) plays a pivotal role in lipid metabolism in the peripheral circulation and in the brain. This has been recognized for decades; however, the importance of the full spectrum of variation in theAPOEgene has been less investigated. This review focusses on current progresses in this field with main focus on apoE in dyslipidemia and vascular disease.

Recent findings

Whereas ε4 is the risk increasing allele for Alzheimer disease, ε2 is associated with increased risk for age-related macular degeneration. Rare functional ε2-like variants inAPOEhave previously been reported to have protective associations for Alzheimer disease but recent findings suggest a simultaneous high risk of age-related macular degeneration, in line with observations for the ε2 allele.

ApoE plays an important and well established role in dyslipidemia, vascular disease, and dementia. Recent evidence from large general population studies now also suggests that apoE is involved in age-related macular degeneration. ApoE-targeted therapeutics are being developed for multiple purposes; this heralds a promising change in the approach to disease processes involving apoE. The different risk profile for dementia and age-related macular degeneration should, however, be kept in mind when developing drugs targeting mechanisms resembling these variants.