bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modification of warumbia cultivar brown rice flour (Oryza sativa L.) using SBM.3D lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Wahyuni Sri , Khaeruni Andi , Asnani  , Sarinah  , Fitri Faradilla RH , Rizka Wa Ode Syamnawar , Salim Erlisa
Published: December 2021

The research purpose was to determine the optimum fermentation time and SBM.3D LAB concentration on the physicochemical of modified Warumbia brown rice flour. This research uses a Completely Randomized Design with a factorial pattern consisting of two factors that are the length of fermentation and the concentration of LAB. The results showed that the interaction of the fermentation time treatment and SBM.3D LAB concentration had a significant effect on the characteristics of physicochemical properties of the viscosity and pH variables. However, it had no significant effect on the swelling power and water solubility index of the modified Warumbia brown rice flour. The best fermentation treatment was obtained at 48 hours of fermentation time with OD 0,75 of SBM.3D LAB concentration. The treatment had viscosity value of 25.00 cP, swelling power of 9.15 g/g, water solubility index of 31.73% and pH value of 6.10. The proximate content Warumbia brown rice flour are water content 8.37% wb, ash content 0.66% db, protein content 5.65% db and glucose content 16.57 % db. The results showed that the interaction between fermentation time and SBM.3D LAB concentration had a significant effect on increasing physicochemical properties and proximate content of the modified Warumbia brown rice flour.
Performance measurement of Tempeh crackers supply chain management using Halal criteria on SCOR Model
Authors: Wahyuni Dini , Nazaruddin  , Amalia Frastika Suci , Budiman Irwan
Published: December 2021

Currently, the Indonesian business world is still dominated by Small and Medium Enterprises (SME). The number of SME has reached more than 26 million businesses, with Sumatera Utara being the province with the fourth largest number of SME in Indonesia. Every SME that produces halal products needs to measure its production performance by considering halal criteria to find out and measure the implementation of Islamic principles in product processing. There are 15 Key Performance Indicators used in measuring performance with SCOR Model and 6 of them are related to halal, namely Halal MUI label, Halal raw material, Order received damage free, Accuracy payment to suppliers, Appropriate in paying salaries, and number of defective products. Final performance of Tempeh SME is 45.94; which shows the performance of SME is still in a marginal condition. Based on the identification with the traffic light system, out of 15 KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) there are 7 KPIs that have a red color which indicates that repairing efforts are needed, namely: meetings with customers, MUI halal labels, number of defective products, flexibility in product manufacturing, equipment life, complain rate, and product replacement time.
Effect of temperature and time treatment of Ultrasound-assisted extraction on the properties of bengkoang water-soluble polysaccharides
Authors: Hilman Adrian , Suhaidi Ismed , Azhari  , Keawyok Kridsada
Published: December 2021

Zero Hunger as the SDG program aims to prevent global need with innovation to exploit and promote local food uses of all available underutilized food crops. A water-soluble polysaccharide is included in bengkoang (Pachyrhizus erosus) soluble fibres. Previous studies reported that ultrasound-assisted extraction impacts starch depending on several factors such as temperatures and times. The research aims to obtain bengkoang oligosaccharide compounds by ultrasound-assisted extraction with different treatment of temperatures and times. The results of the moisture degree were decreasing the moisture degree might be attributed to the increasing temperature and time treatment of ultrasound-assisted extraction. It increases the water absorption capacity of the modified starch by sonication and is also related to the size of the starch granules. The results of the FTIR graph test show that some of the granules have cracks and small depressions on the surface that are visible in the middle and corners after being treated with sonication. The results of the morphological observation show that after treatment of sonication in water appear minor cracks and scratches. Some water-soluble polysaccharide granules are transformed into gelatinization form that makes granule shape irregular and has small visible cracks in the central part.
AMIC Technique for the Treatment of Chondral Injuries of the Hand and Wrist
Authors: de Vega Pau López-Osornio , Bauxauli Vicente Carratalà , Corella Fernando , Andrade Cristóbal Martínez
Published: December 2021

Scaffolds, either alone or combined with cultured chondrocyte cells, are an effective treatment for chondral or osteochondral defects of the knee and ankle joints.

Scaffolds are a more sophisticated solution and have some advantages compared with the isolated use of the more traditional treatments of microfractures or nanofractures.

In addition, scaffolds represent a less complicated technique and a less expensive treatment compared with chondrocyte culture treatments, which are accessible by very few patients.

In the present article, we detail the surgical technique and provide advices and tips for the treatment of ostecochondral hand and wrist lesions using the Chondro-Gide (Geistlich Pharma AG, Wolhausen, Switzerland) scaffold and its patented autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC, Geistlich Pharma AG) technique.
Four-Corner Fusion with Locking Dorsal Circular Plate versus Headless Compression Screws: A Clinico-Radiological Comparative Study
Authors: Melibosky Francisco R. , Jorquera Rene A. , Saxton Felipe Z. , Orellana Pablo , Junqueras Diego , Azócar Camila
Published: December 2021

Introduction Four-corner fusion is a technique for the treatment of carpal advanced collapse. It consists of scaphoid excision and arthrodesis of the lunate, triquetrum, hamate, and capitate bones. This can be accomplished with different kinds of osteosynthesis. In the first reports of the use of a circular plate, poor outcomes are described, with high rates of non-union, which decreased in later studies, which highlight certain aspects of the surgical technique.

Objective To report our experience with four-corner fusion with the use of a dorsal locking plate (Xpode, Trimed Inc., Santa Clarita, CA, US), and compare it with another traditional fixation method (3.0-mm headless compression screws [HCSs], Synthes, Slothurn, Switzerland), with an emphasis on union, an assessment of the fincitonal outcomes, and the presence of complications.

Material and Methods A comparative study of two prospective series of patients operated on through two fixation techniques for four-corner fusion using autologous bone graft from the iliac crest.

The first group of patients, evaluated between 2010 and 2012, underwent osteosynthesis with 2 HCSs, with a minimum follow up of 18 months. The second group, evaluated between 2011 and 2014, underwent osteosynthesis with a dorsal locking plate, with a minimium foloow up of 12 months. The patients were operated on by four different surgeons in four centers.

The patients were evaluated with radiographs to establish the presence of union and the time it took to occur. In case of doubt, union was confirmed through a computed tomography (CT) scan at 8 weeks postoperatrively. We also assessed the range of motion, the presence of complications, and function through the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and a grip strength score.

Results We achieved a union rate of 100% in both groups at similar times. In the dorsal locking plate group, we obtained better full range of motion, particularly in wrist extension, which was statistically significant (p = 0.0016), as well as lower DASH scores, which was also statistically significant (p = 0.0066). Complications were only present in two patients in the HCS group.

Conclusion Both techniques are valid and reproducible for the treatment of wrists with scapholunate advanced collapse (SNAC) and scaphoid non-union advanced collapse (SLAC). Based on the outcomes, with the Xpode plate, the patients presented better ranges of motion and DASH scores; therefore it may be an excellent fixation option in the open four-corner fusion surgical technique. The entry point and configuration of the HCS are fundamental variables to analyze.

The union rate of 100% obtained in the present study contrasts with the high rates of non-union reported in the literature published in the early 2000s.
Madelung Deformity: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Authors: Oliveira Ricardo Kaempf de , Ribak Samuel , Brunelli João Pedro Farina , Aita Márcio , Delgado Pedro J.
Published: December 2021

Madelung deformity (MD) comprises an increased volar and ulnar tilt of the joint facet of the distal radius, secondary to an idiopathic physeal dysplasia. Such change causes radial shortening and consequent distal ulnar prominence, along with wrist pain and loss of motion. Surgery becomes an option in patients with severe deformity that do not respond to conservative treatment.

The classic surgical techniques are problematic for adults, as they are specific for children and adolescents, whose radial physis is still open. Very few papers discuss the treatment of adult patients; furthermore, most are focused on the distal radioulnar joint, and thus do not approach the origin of the pathology.

When analyzing computed tomography scans with tridimensional reconstruction, a feature of MD, growth arrest of the volar and ulnar portions of the distal radius, is noted, causing the typical distal radius deformity that leads to lack of coverage of the lunate bone. That leads to palmar subluxation of the lunate bone and consequent radiocarpal instability.

We herein describe the possibilities of treatment in different stages of evolution, summarizing the authors' view on MD.
Dynamical mRNA distribution regulated by multi-step gene activation
Authors: Chen Yitong , Gong Qitong , Wu Yaning , Yan Haizhi , Hu Linchao , Jiao Feng
Published: December 2021

Transcriptional bursting has been attributed to the random switch between the off and on states of genes. Previous studies modeled gene activation as a process involving ordered multiple rate-limiting steps. Here, we aimed to understand how multi-step gene activation regulates the dynamical mRNA distribution in isogenic cell populations. We focused on both inactive and active genes for which the gene shows a longer average duration in the off and on states, respectively. We developed a method to calculate the mRNA distribution and demonstrated the unstable dynamical bimodal distribution induced by multi-step activation. The suppression of bimodality requires only a few activation steps and is achieved by triggering more cells to express the gene. In the gene-expressing cell population, multi-step gene activation modulates the transcription distribution in a bidirectional manner: the inactive gene is transcribed with enhanced heterogeneity, whereas the active gene is facilitated to generate homogeneous transcription dynamics. These regulation scenarios guide the understanding of the network structure of signaling pathways that direct gene activation.
Determining the empirical model for estimating the permanent deformation in flat roof panels under hail impact
Authors: Uz Mehmet E. , Kop Meryem D. , Yildirim Efe M.
Published: December 2021

Hailstorms cause significant economic losses every year all over the world. Roofs and many other exposed installations can be affected by the impact of hailstones. However, steel resistance to hail impact has not been sufficiently investigated. Predicting the result of hailstone impact is difficult. This can result in significant permanent deformation of the roof. This study aims to develop plastic deformation prediction models for plate structures investigating the plausibility of an equation predicting the dent depth as a function of kinetic energy and yield strength while also addressing the shortcomings of its testing scheme. Causes, results, and solutions to be implemented in the future are also addressed in this work. The proposed equation aims to provide an approximate value for the ratio of dent diameter to dent depth as an input to simplify the solution for the dent depth. For this goal, a new method of making artificial hailstones has been successfully conducted based on the characteristics of natural hailstones. The outcomes of the empirical model were further validated using experimental observations in this study. It was found that within the range of steel sheets tested, the theory gave accurate estimates of the dent depth before the impact. The proposed equation provides insights into the effect of hail impacts on roofs and enables the use of new design methods for the hail resistance of steel sheeting.
The cyclic dinucleotide 2′3′-cGAMP induces a broad antibacterial and antiviral response in the sea anemone
Nematostella vectensis
Authors: Margolis Shally R. , Dietzen Peter A. , Hayes Beth M. , Wilson Stephen C. , Remick Brenna C. , Chou Seemay , Vance Russell E.
Published: December 2021

Significance

Cyclic dinucleotides are signaling molecules that originated in bacteria and were subsequently acquired and co-opted by animals for immune signaling. The major cyclic dinucleotide signaling pathway in mammals results in the production of antiviral molecules called interferons. Invertebrates such as sea anemones lack interferons, and thus it was unclear whether cyclic dinucleotide signaling would play a role in immunity in these animals. Here, we report that in the anemone
Nematostella vectensis
, cyclic dinucleotides activate both antiviral and antibacterial immune responses and do so through a conserved pathway. These results provide insights into the evolutionary origins of innate immunity and suggest a broader ancestral role for cyclic dinucleotide signaling that evolved toward more specialized antiviral functions in mammals.
Multiplexed sensing of biomolecules with optically detected magnetic resonance of nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond
Authors: Kayci Metin , Fan Jilin , Bakirman Onur , Herrmann Andreas
Published: December 2021

Significance

Bioassay applications that use magnetic nanotags to convert specific molecular interactions into a detectable magnetic dipole represent a rapidly advancing field of nanotechnology to develop next-generation diagnostics while providing the capability for simultaneous noninvasive manipulation in an external magnetic field. Although absorption, autofluorescence, scattering, photobleaching, blinking, and chemical quenching are major noise components for fluorescent markers in thick and opaque heterogeneous biological samples, they are not the significant limiting factors for the magnetic detection systems using magnetic nanotags. Here, we report progress toward a multiplexed magneto-DNA assay platform with position-indexed hydrogel microstructures decorated for sequence-specific nucleic acid detection and a complementary magnetic-imaging system using nitrogen-vacancy quantum centers in diamond.
Body and mind? Exploring physiological and psychological factors to explain endurance performance in cycling
Authors: Röthlin Philipp , Wyler Marco , Müller Beat , Zenger Nina , Kellenberger Katja , Wehrlin Jon Peter , Birrer Daniel , Lorenzetti Silvio , Trösch Severin
Published: December 2021

Endurance athletes attribute performance not only to physiological factors, but also refer to psychological factors such as motivation. The goal of this study was to quantify the proportion of the variance in endurance performance that is explained by psychological factors in addition to the physiological factor VO2max. Twenty‐five athletes of the U17 Swiss Cycling national team (7f, 18 m, 15.3 ± 0.5 years) were examined in a cross‐sectional study with psychological factors and VO2max as independent variables and endurance performance in road cycling as dependent variable. Questionnaires were used to assess psychological factors (i.e. use of mental techniques, self‐compassion, mental toughness, achievement motivation, and action vs. state orientation). VO2max was measured by a step incremental cycle ergometer test of exhaustion. Endurance performance was measured in a cycling mountain time trial (1,320 m long, incline of 546 meters). A multiple regression model was created by using forward selection of regression model predictors. Results showed that higher VO2max values (β = .48), being male (β = .26), and higher achievement motivation (i.e. perseverance, β = .11) were associated with a better endurance performance. A more frequent use of one particular mental technique (i.e. relaxation techniques, β = .03) was associated with a worse endurance performance. Our study shows that a physiological factor like VO2max explains endurance performance to a large extent but psychological factors account for additional variance. In particular, one aspect of achievement motivation, namely perseverance, was associated with a better endurance performance.

HIGHLIGHTS

Endurance performance is explained by physiological (e.g. VO2max) and psychological (e.g. perseverance) factors

VO2max explains young cyclists’ endurance performance to a large extent

Perseverance explained performance beyond the influence of VO2max
Key comparison BIPM.RI(I)-K4 of the absorbed dose to water standards of the NRC, Canada and the BIPM in 60Co gamma radiation
Authors: Kessler C , Burns D , Downton B , McEwen M
Published: December 2021

Main text

A new key comparison of the standards for absorbed dose to water of the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Canada and the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) was carried out in the 60Co radiation beam of the BIPM in October 2020. The comparison result, based on the calibration coefficients for three transfer standards and evaluated as a ratio of the NRC and the BIPM standards for absorbed dose to water, is 0.9995 with a combined standard uncertainty of 3.4 parts in 103. The result agrees within the uncertainties with the comparison carried out in 2009. The results are analysed and presented in terms of degrees of equivalence, suitable for entry in the BIPM key comparison database.

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCRI, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Insights into the surface responses of graphene oxide irradiated by an infrared femtosecond laser
Authors: Ding Ye , Li Qiang , Li Jingyi , Wang Lianfu , Yang Lijun
Published: December 2021

Graphene oxide (GO) has emerged as a unique and multifaceted novel material with a wide range of applications in electrochemistry and optoelectronic engineering. In these applications, the GO surface is characterized with different functional structures in the micro-nano scale, while the femtosecond laser is a promising and versatile tool for manufacturing these structures comparing with conventional approaches. However, the comprehensive surface responses and corresponding regimes of GO surface under femtosecond laser irradiation are not yet identified, which creates obstacles to the further application of femtosecond lasers in programming GO surfaces with specific nanopatterns. Herein, theoretical models characterizing the electrical response, i.e. the transient spatial and temporal distribution of infrared femtosecond laser-excited free electron density at the GO surface layers are established. The numerical simulations are carried out using the discontinuous Galerkin finite element algorithm with a 5 fs time step. The relationship between the laser polarized electric field and free electron density is revealed. On this basis, the surface plasma distribution is characterized, the accuracy of which is verified through the comparison of experimental ablation morphology. Thermal, morphological and chemical responses of the GO surface using different parameters are analyzed correspondingly, from which the formation and evolution mechanisms of surface nanopatterns with different features are explained. This work offers a new insight into the fundamental regimes and feasibility of ultrafast patterning of GO for the application of multifunctional device engineering.
Color Changes and Resistance Against Subterranean Termites Attack of Furfuryl Alcohol Impregnated Pine and Sengon Woods Through Graveyard Test
Authors: Sabrina P A , Hadi Y S , Nawawi D S , Abdillah I B , Pari R
Published: December 2021

Pine (Pinus merkusiiJungh. & de Vriese) and sengon (Falcataria moluccana(Miq.) Barneby & J.W. Grimes) are common species of woods used for many purposes. Both species are known susceptible against subterranean termite attack. This study aims to analyze the effect of furfuryl alcohol impregnation on color changes and the resistance against subterranean termites of pinewood and sengon after in-ground test for one year. Furfurylated pine and sengon woods reached weight percent gain 31.2% and 79.1%, densities 0.93 g/cm3and 0.43 g/cm3, moisture content 3.27% and 2.88%, respectively. Furfurylated pine and sengon woods have lost weight 4.07% dan 2.09%, respectively, with the average resistance level of 9.8 on both woods while untreated pine and sengon woods lost weight were 59.02% and 35.58%, with resistance level 4 and 3.8, respectively. Resistance level scoring was conducted by refering to ASTM D1758-06. Higher resistance level and lower weight loss on both furfurylated woods compared to untreated woods showed that furfurylation could increase the wood resistance against termite attack.
Polyphenol contents and free radical scavenging activity of Pinus merkusii cone
Authors: Masendra  , Ngadianto A , Arifriana R , Maulidia F , Minorita W , Purba B A V , Lukmandaru G
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to investigate the polyphenol contents from thePinus merkusiicone extract and their antioxidant activity. The cone powder (40 mesh) was extracted withn-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol successively for six hours. The cone ofn-hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol soluble extracts was subjected to total tannin content, total phenol content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant measurements. The polyphenol contents were measured through the colorimetric method, while antioxidant activity was observed by inhibition of the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) method. The results showed that total tannin content, total phenol content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of methanol soluble extract was higher than ethyl acetate andn-hexane soluble extracts. In this study, the high antioxidant activity of methanol soluble extract (IC50of 196.73±13.93 ppm) might due to the high concentration of total phenol content (545.38±54.07 mg GAE/g sample). It was suggested that theP. merkusiicone is potential as the antioxidant source.
Characteristics of impregnated wood by nano silica from betung bamboo leaves
Authors: Rahayu I , Pratama A , Darmawan W , Nandika D , Prihatini E
Published: December 2021

Abstract, Sengon (Falcataria moluccana Miq.) as a fast-growing wood species that has low quality. Therefore, wood modification is needed to improve its wood qualities. The objective of this study was to analyse the effect of monoethylene glycol (MEG) and nano silica of betung bamboo leaves impregnation treatment on physical, mechanical properties and durability of sengon wood. 5-years-old Sengon wood from community forest, MEG and nano silica (average size = 436.16 nm) from betung bamboo leaves were used. The impregnation solutions were consisted of water treated (untreated), MEG, MEGSilika 0.5% and MEGSilika 1%. Impregnation process with 0.5 bar (60 minutes) vacuum and 2.5 bar (120 minutes) pressure. Physical properties (density and colour alteration), mechanical properties (Modulus of Elasticity (MOE), Modulus of Rupture (MOR) and hardness) and durability against subterranean (Coptotermes curvignathus) attack. The results showed that the weight percent gain (WPG) and density of treated Sengon wood were increased as the nano silica concentration increased. While colour alteration (Δε) of treated samples were declining. Mechanical properties (MOE, MOR and hardness) were also improved. Durability based on laboratory tested against subterranean attack resulted that the percentage of termite mortality from the treated samples increased, while the percentage of weight loss decreased.
The first results of the seismic monitoring system of the Solntsevsky open pit coal mine area (on Sakhalin Island)
Authors: Kostylev D V , Boginskaya N V
Published: December 2021

In 2021, work began as a part of the implementation of the decision of the protocol of the Sakhalin branch of the Russian Expert Council on earthquake prediction, seismic hazard and risk assessment dated October 6, 2020 on detailed monitoring in the area of active coal mining at the Solntsevsky open pit coal mine (Sakhalin Island). New points of seismic monitoring were installed directly in the area of the open pit coal mine. Integration of real-time data received from the points in real time into a unified seismic monitoring system in the Sakhalin Region was ensured. The results of registration of seismic events of various origins since the commissioning of the stations are presented. A significant increase in the accuracy of the determined epicenters and the possibilities of determining earthquakes and industrial explosions has been noted. The results of the monitoring system for studying the landslide process in the area of the open pit coal mine, as well as the probable factors that caused the landslide, are shown. The developed monitoring system allows for representative registration of seismic events with ML ≥ 0.8 in the immediate vicinity of open pit coal mine, which makes it possible to control blasting operations with increased accuracy, as well as weak and possible induced seismicity formed as a result of a constant technogenic impact on the subsoil.
Study of the tectonic structure and modern geodynamics of the nickel-copper-sulfide Kun-Manyo deposit at the stage of its field the development
Authors: Potapchuk M I , Rasskazov I Yu , Usikov V I , Kryukov V G
Published: December 2021

Currently, the Kun-Manyo nickel-copper-sulfide deposit in the north of the Khabarovsk Krai is being prepared for development, with part of the reserves expected to be mined by underground mining. To justify the rational order of opening and excavation of sub-ore reserves it is necessary to have objective information on rock mass condition, which can be received as a result of complex geodynamic and geomechanical investigations.

The established geodynamic position of the deposit, determined by its location at the junction of actively interacting large tectonic elements of the Euro-Asian tectonic plate – the tectonic stress of the North Asian craton and the Amur plate, as well as within the modern Olekmo-Stanovo seismic zone, has allowed the massif of the field area to be classified as tectonically stressed.

An analysis of the data of the GPS-observation points on the territory of the Russian part of the Amur tectonic plate, the results of calculations of the vector field of velocities of modern movements of points, made within the framework of the ITRF – 2000 coordinate system, as well as the results of in-situ geomechanical studies of rock massifs of the Amur Plate’s rock-bump hazardous deposits, have made it possible to establish the current tectonic regime of the deposit area – a region of intense modern compression with a predicted intensity of more than 50 MPa. By methods of morphometric analysis and remote sensing, it has been found that the relative relief excesses were significant (700–1000 m), which may lead to an uncompensated horizontal component of geostatic stress. The most extended lineaments of the relief have predominantly southeasterly extension. The identified features of the tectonic structure and regional neotectonics have made it possible to determine the most probable direction and magnitude of the current main horizontal compression, which could be further used in solving various geomechanical problems in the exploitation of the field.
Development of the dual-channel frequency meter for measurements with hydrostatic pressure sensor
Authors: Stovbun N S , Gulyakov S A
Published: December 2021

The paper describes the process and the results of development of the dual-channel frequency meter, which function is to measure the output frequency generated by bottom-mounted pressure sensors. The sensors are actively used to monitor the marine environment. AVR family microcontrollers were used as the computing core of the presented device. This solution allows to obtain far lower power consumption, which is especially important when operating with no industrial power supply system in the coastal zone. As a result, we can deploy a reliable monitoring equipment capable of long-term saving data and if necessary transmit it for further processing. The developed frequency-meter is able to continually record the ambient temperature, atmospheric pressure and dynamically varying output frequency, which depends on hydrostatic pressure (sea level). To obtain more accurate data, we implemented a frequency measure method called reciprocal counter with lower relative error not affected by value of the output frequency. A laboratory experiment has been conducted, which confirms the suitability of the developed frequency meter for field-oriented conditions.
Transformation of baroclinic tidal waves in the conditions of the shelf of the Far Eastern seas
Authors: Kuznetsov P D , Rouvinskaya E A , Kurkina O E , Kurkin A A
Published: December 2021

This work is devoted to the study of the regimes of transformation of baroclinic tidal waves under the conditions of the Far Eastern seas within the framework of a fully nonlinear numerical model. Two sections were selected to study the features of wave dynamics – in the Sea of Okhotsk (Sakhalin Island shelf) and in the Bering Sea (near Cape Navarin). On the basis of the performed calculations, regional and seasonal features of the transformation of baroclinic waves and the structure of the flow induced by them were revealed. It is shown that the dynamics in the winter season is less intensive. The rotation effect on the formation of solibore in the studied conditions is analyzed. The obtained estimates of wave amplitudes and velocities are consistent with the published data of field observations in the Sea of Okhotsk. For the Bering Sea, the conditions are shown to be favorable for the generation of intensive internal waves, which indirectly confirms the hypothesis of influence of such waves on the formation of underwater sand dunes.
Boosted dielectric performance of organic–inorganic nanocomposites based on BaTiO3 via 2D TiO2 templates
Authors: Park Se Yeon , Jang Moonjeong , Song Wooseok , Lee Sun Sook , Yoon Dae Ho , An Ki-Seok
Published: December 2021

Organic–inorganic hybrid dielectrics composed of nanoscale ceramic fillers in polymer matrices have attracted considerable attention because they can overcome the inherent limitations such as the low dielectric constant, high dielectric loss, and low film density associated with mechanically flexible pristine polymer materials. Barium titanate (BaTiO3), a representative perovskite-based material with a high permittivity, is suitable for applications as nanofillers in nanocomposite dielectrics. X-ray diffraction combined with Raman analysis suggest that a two-step hydrothermal synthesis, which uses synthesized TiO2 nanosheets as a template, is an effective method for the synthesis of pure BaTiO3 nanoparticles compared with other methods. Ultrasonic treatment is employed to disperse BaTiO3 nanoparticles with different concentrations in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer, and the dielectric performance of the nanocomposite films has been examined. In this study, 20 wt% BaTiO3–PVA nanocomposite dielectric showed superior capacitance and dielectric constant performance, i.e. five times higher than that of the pristine PVA.
Does Third-Party Intervention Matter? A Video-Based Analysis of the Effect of Third-Party Intervention on the Continuation of Interpersonal Conflict Behaviour
Authors: Ejbye-Ernst Peter
Published: December 2021

The article investigates whether third-party intervention influences the continuation of antagonist conflict behaviour in interpersonal conflicts. The analysis is based on a systematic coding of video footage of real-life conflicts from the streets of Amsterdam. A panel data analysis shows that intervention leads to discontinuation of conflict behaviour. The analysis furthermore finds that while physically forceful intervention stops conflict behaviour, expressions of disapproval have no noticeable effect. The social relationship between third parties and antagonists does not appear to matter for this effect. Third parties thus play an integral part in the development of interpersonal conflicts, but this influence depends on how they intervene. Future preventive efforts should emphasize that intervention works but must be performed in certain ways to be effective.
Using R to improve rigour and transparency in translational neuroscience—or is it just a rabbit hole?
Authors: Spires-Jones Tara L.
Published: December 2021

Our Editor explores the use of R for improving rigour, reproducibility and transparency in translational neuroscience. She also provides an example of how to waste enormous amounts of time playing with data in R instead of doing her day job.
Infective endocarditis in pregnancy requiring simultaneous emergent caesarean section and mitral valve replacement: a case report
Authors: Maruichi-Kawakami Shiori , Nagao Kazuya , Kanazawa Takenori , Inada Tsukasa
Published: December 2021

Background

Although infective endocarditis (IE) in pregnancy is rare, maternal and foetal mortality rates are very high. We herein report the successful treatment of a case of IE with simultaneous emergent caesarean section and mitral valve replacement performed at 27 weeks of gestation.

Case summary

A 29-year-old woman at 27 weeks of gestation was referred for congestive heart failure (HF) due to infective endocarditis (IE) with large mobile vegetations and overt disruption of the mitral valve. We held a multi-disciplinary conference and decided to perform mitral valve replacement immediately after caesarean section because of the high risk of embolism and sepsis, worsening and unstable haemodynamics, and sufficient foetal maturity for delivery. Although coronary artery embolization and asymptomatic multiple cerebral infarctions were observed, her post-operative course was uneventful. Ultimately, the patient was discharged 29 days after surgery. The neonate was treated in the NICU until the expected delivery date and was discharged home on Day 95 of life.

Discussion

Difficulties are associated with the selection of an operative plan and its timing for IE during pregnancy. Heart failure due to IE requires urgent surgery when medical treatment cannot stabilize the patient. However, cardiopulmonary bypass and medicine for pregnant women adversely affect the foetus. Therefore, the timing of surgery and delivery needs to be selected by a multi-disciplinary team and in consideration of the maternal condition and foetal maturity.
Evidence for the agricultural origin of resistance to multiple antimicrobials in Aspergillus fumigatus, a fungal pathogen of humans
Authors: Kang S Earl , Sumabat Leilani G , Melie Tina , Mangum Brandon , Momany Michelle , Brewer Marin T
Published: December 2021

Pathogen resistance to clinical antimicrobial agents is an urgent problem. The fungus Aspergillus fumigatus causes 300,000 life-threatening infections in susceptible humans annually. Azoles, which are widely used in both clinical and agricultural settings, are currently the most effective treatment, but resistance to clinical azoles is emerging worldwide. Here, we report the isolation and analysis of azole-sensitive and azole-resistant A. fumigatus from agricultural environments in the southeastern United States (USA) and show that the USA pan-azole-resistant isolates form a clade with pan-azole-resistant isolates from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and India. We show that several pan-azole-resistant isolates from agricultural settings in the USA and India also carry alleles with mutations conferring resistance to agricultural fungicides from the benzimidazole (MBC) and quinone outside inhibitor (QoI) classes. We further show that pan-azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates from patients in clinical settings in the USA, India, and the Netherlands also carry alleles conferring resistance to MBC and QoI agricultural fungicides. The presence of markers for resistance to agricultural-use fungicides in clinical A. fumigatus isolates is strong evidence for an agricultural origin of pan-azole resistance in patients. The presence of multiple fungicide-resistance alleles in agricultural and clinical isolates further suggests that the unique genetics of the pan-azole-resistant clade enables the evolution and/or persistence of antimicrobial resistance mutations leading to the establishment of multifungicide-resistant isolates.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Type Strain Tepidimonas taiwanensis LMG 22826T, a Thermophilic Alkaline Protease and Polyhydroxyalkanoate Producer
Authors: Hermankova Kristyna , Kourilova Xenie , Pernicova Iva , Bezdicek Matej , Lengerova Martina , Obruca Stanislav , Sedlar Karel
Published: December 2021

Tepidimonas taiwanensis is a moderately thermophilic, Gram-negative, rod-shaped, chemoorganoheterotrophic, motile bacterium. The alkaline protease producing type strain T. taiwanensis LMG 22826T was recently reported to also be a promising producer of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)—renewable and biodegradable polymers representing an alternative to conventional plastics. Here, we present its first complete genome sequence which is also the first complete genome sequence of the whole species. The genome consists of a single 2,915,587-bp-long circular chromosome with GC content of 68.75%. Genome annotation identified 2,764 genes in total while 2,634 open reading frames belonged to protein-coding genes. Although functional annotation of the genome and division of genes into Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COGs) revealed a relatively high number of 694 genes with unknown function or unknown COG, the majority of genes were assigned a function. Most of the genes, 406 in total, were involved in energy production and conversion, and amino acid transport and metabolism. Moreover, particular key genes involved in the metabolism of PHA were identified. Knowledge of the genome in connection with the recently reported ability to produce bioplastics from the waste stream of wine production makes T. taiwanensis LMG 22826T, an ideal candidate for further genome engineering as a bacterium with high biotechnological potential.
Phosphatidylserine Liposomes Reduce Inflammatory Response, Mycobacterial Viability, and HIV Replication in Coinfected Human Macrophages
Authors: Poerio Noemi , Caccamo Nadia R , La Manna Marco P , Olimpieri Tommaso , De Angelis Lucia Henrici , D’Andrea Marco M , Dieli Francesco , Fraziano Maurizio
Published: December 2021

Chronic immune activation is the key pathogenetic event of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection. We assessed the therapeutic value of phosphatidylserine-liposome (PS-L) in an in vitro model of M. tuberculosis-HIV coinfection. PS-L reduced nuclear factor-κB activation and the downstream production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6 in bacille Calmette-Guérin-infected macrophages and of TNF-α and IL-1β in M. tuberculosis-infected and M. tuberculosis-HIV–coinfected macrophages. Importantly, a significant reduction of intracellular M. tuberculosis viability and HIV replication were also observed. These results support the further exploitation of PS-L as host-directed therapy for M. tuberculosis-HIV coinfection.
Real-life experience with bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide in a large reference clinical centre
Authors: Ambrosioni Juan , Rojas Liévano Jhon , Berrocal Leire , Inciarte Alexy , de la Mora Lorena , González-Cordón Ana , Martínez-Rebollar María , Laguno Montserrat , Torres Berta , Ugarte Ainoa , Chivite Iván , Leal Lorna , de Lazzari Elisa , Miró José M. , Blanco José L. , Martinez Esteban , Mallolas Josep
Published: December 2021

Background

The use of bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (BIC/FTC/TAF) is mainly based on robust, pivotal clinical trials.

Objectives

To provide data on clinical use of BIC/FTC/TAF in real life.

Patients and methods

This was an observational, retrospective and single-centre study. We included all adult, treatment-naive (TN) and treatment-experienced (TE) people living with HIV (PLWH) starting BIC/FTC/TAF from 8 June 2018. We evaluated effectiveness [on treatment (OT), modified intention-to-treat (mITT) and intention-to-treat (ITT)], tolerability and safety in those patients who reached 6 months of follow-up (M6).

Results

We included 1584 PLWH [213 TN (13%) and 1371 TE (87%)]. The median (IQR) follow-up was 16 (7–21) months, with 81% and 53% of PLWH reaching M6 and M12, respectively. By OT, mITT and ITT, HIV-RNA <50 copies/mL was 77%, 70% and 62% at M6 and 92%, 77% and 63% at M12 for TN PLWH and 94%, 89% and 83% at M6 and 93%, 85% and 78% at M12 for TE PLWH, respectively. In PLWH carrying an M184V/I substitution, OT RNA <50 copies/mL was 89.5% at M6. The median CD4 cell count increased from 329 to 511/μL in TN PLWH and from 630 to 683/μL in TE PLWH at M6. Of the total, 1148 (88%) PLWH continued on BIC/FTC/TAF at M6. The most frequent known reason for discontinuation was toxicity [42 (69%) cases]; only 7 cases were considered virological failures (0.6% of the total OT cohort at M6), with no emerging resistance substitutions.

Conclusions

In real life, BIC/FTC/TAF showed high rates of virological suppression and also in PLWH carrying lamivudine/emtricitabine resistance substitutions. The tolerability and safety of BIC/FTC/TAF were good, with high persistence observed for patients on this regimen at M6.
Nutritional and functional values of lysedCorynebacterium glutamicumcell mass for intestinal health and growth of nursery pigs
Authors: Cheng Yi-Chi , Duarte Marcos Elias , Kim Sung Woo
Published: December 2021

The objective was to determine the nutritional and functional values of lysed Corynebacterium glutamicum cell mass (CGCM) as a protein supplement and a source of cell wall fragments supporting the growth and intestinal health of nursery pigs. Thirty-two pigs (21 d of age) were allotted to four treatments (n = 8) based on the randomized block design with sex and initial body weight (BW) as blocks. The main effect was the dietary supplementation of lysed CGCM (0, 0.7, 1.4, and 2.1%) replacing blood plasma and fed in two phases (10 and 11 d, respectively). Feed intake and BW were measured at the end of each phase. Pigs were euthanized on day 21 to collect jejunal tissue and mucosa to evaluate intestinal health. Ileal digesta were collected to measure the apparent ileal digestibility of nutrients in diets. Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed and Reg of SAS. Increasing daily intake of CGCM increased (linear; P < 0.05) ADG of pigs. Increasing CGCM supplementation affected (quadratic; P < 0.05) the relative abundance of Lactobacillaceae (minimum: 26.4% at 1.2% CGCM), Helicobacteraceae (maximum: 29.3% at 1.2% CGCM), and Campylobacteraceae (maximum: 9.0% at 1.0% CGCM). Increasing CGCM supplementation affected (quadratic; P < 0.05) the concentrations of immunoglobulin G (maximum: 4.94 µg/mg of protein at 1.0% CGCM) and protein carbonyl (PC; maximum: 6.12 nmol/mg of protein at 1.1% CGCM), whereas linearly decreased (P < 0.05) malondialdehyde (MDA) in the proximal jejunal mucosa. Increasing CGCM supplemention affected (quadratic; P < 0.05) intestinal enterocyte proliferation rate (maximum: 13.3% at 1.0% CGCM), whereas it did not affect intestinal morphology and the nutrient digestibility. In conclusion, supplementing 1.0% to 1.2%, reducing blood plasma supplementation by 0.7% to 0.9%, respectively, increased potential pathogenic microbiota associated in the jejunal mucosa resulting in increased immune response, enterocyte proliferation, and PC concentration. However, supplementing diets with 2.1% CGCM, replacing 1.5% blood plasma, improved growth performance, and reduced MDA without affecting nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, and microbiota in the jejunal mucosa. In this study, based on the polynomial contrast, supplementing 1.0% to 1.2% CGCM suppressed the benefits from blood plasma, whereas supplementing 2.1% CGCM showed functional benefits of CGCM with similar effects from blood plasma supplementation.
Periprosthetic fragility fracture of the femur after primary cementless total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Hirao Masanobu , Miyatake Kazumasa , Takada Ryohei , Tachibana Tetsuya , Okawa Atsushi , Jinno Tetsuya
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Periprosthetic bone fragility due to stress shielding (SS) can be a risk factor of periprosthetic fracture after cementless total hip arthroplasty (THA). We aimed to obtain epidemiological information on periprosthetic fragility fracture of the femur (PPFF) after THA.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 1062 hips that had undergone cementless THA. We evaluated the epidemiological data as well as the features of PPFFs.

Results

Of the 1062 hips, 8 (0.8%) were diagnosed with PPFFs. The survival rates, with the occurrence of PPFF as the end point, were 99.2% and 97.6% at 10 and 16 years postoperatively, respectively. When patients were classified as having either mild or severe SS on radiographs 5 years postoperatively, there was no significant difference in the survival rate, with PPFF as the end point.

Conclusions

In our cases, the incidence of PPFF after cementless THA was 0.8%.
Global research trends in hyperuricemia: a bibliometric and visualized study
Authors: Zhang Qingxi , Li Hui , Xing Dan , Lin Jianhao
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The global trend of research on hyperuricaemia (HUA) has not been well studied. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the trend of research on HUA and compare the findings in publications from different countries, institutions, journals, and authors, to predict the research hotspots.

Methods

Publications related to HUA were searched using the Science Citation Index-Expanded Web of Science. The data were analysed by using the bibliometric methodology. Additionally, a graphical mapping was generated by using the VOS viewer software to carry out a co-occurrence analysis and to investigate the trend of publications in this field.

Results

A total of 6313 articles were included. The number of publications was increasing globally yearly. USA was the leading country in global research in this field, with the largest number of publications and citations as well as the highest H-index (H-index reflects both the number of publications and the number of citations per publication). PLOS One published the largest number of publications related to HUA. JOHNSON RJ T has published the largest number of papers in this field. Published studies could be classified into six clusters: ‘Pathophysiology’, ‘HUA and metabolic syndrome’, ‘HUA and cardiovascular disease’, ‘HUA and gout’, ‘HUA and nephropathy’, and ‘Genome-wide research’. ‘Pathophysiology’, ‘HUA and cardiovascular disease’, ‘HUA and gout’, and ‘Genome-wide research’ were predicted as the next hot topics in HUA research.

Conclusions

USA was the leading country in global research in this field. It is expected that an increasing research output will continue to be observed in the near future. ‘Pathophysiology’, ‘HUA and cardiovascular disease’, ‘HUA and gout’, and ‘Genome-wide research’ may be the next hotspots and hence need more attention in the future.