bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formulation and characteristics of skin cream with the addition of essential oil blend
Authors: Aisyah Y , Irfan  , Yunita D , Ikhwana Y
Published: February 2024

The use of natural ingredients in cosmetics, such as essential oils, is gaining increasing attention today due to their perceived safety for health, attributed to their antioxidant properties. This research aims to determine the formulation of cream by adding an essential oil blend and analyzing physicochemical, microbiological and hedonic characteristics of the skin cream. The study comprises two phases: selecting the preferred essential oil blend by a panel of evaluators and preparing the skin cream with the addition of the chosen essential oil blend. The essential oils used in this study included clove, ginger, cinnamon, galangal, nutmeg, and citronella, with concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%. The research results reveal that the skin cream with the highest antioxidant activity is the one with the addition of a blend of clove and citronella essential oils. However, based on hedonic testing results, the most preferred skin cream formulation is the one with a mix of clove, citronella, and ginger essential oils. Physical characteristics and microbial contamination testing of the cream formulation with a blend of clove, citronella, and ginger essential oils show that the skin cream meets the viscosity and microbial contamination requirements set by SNI 16-4399-1996, with a spreading capacity of 5.07 cm.
Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) Processing Modification to Increase Crude Palm Oil (CPO) Rendement
Authors: Hermantoro H , Ruswanto A , Gunawan S , Putra A P
Published: February 2024

Oil palm has grown from an area of 300 thousand ha in 1980 to now 16.1 million ha (according to GAPKI) with CPO production of 40 million tons. People’s plantations continue to increase and currently account for 52 percent of the total area of oil palm plantations. In this research, pressing pressure experiments were carried out at 60 bar, 70 bar, and 80 bar, respectively, oil losses in fiber were obtained at 13.22%,9.34%, and 7.63%. Through regression analysis, it was found that oil loss in the mesocarp was 1.1% at a pess pressure of 106 Bar. So from this experiment it can be concluded that separating the mesocarp and kernel before pressing provides an increase in oil yield, minimizing oil loss in fiber. The standard oil loss in fiber is 5% in the current palm oil processing process. After modifying the process, very small oil loss in the fiber can be achieved.
Physicochemical parameters and heavy metal in surface water in Central Bangladesh
Authors: Sarmin N S , Ahmed F , Uddin M Z , Ahmed M , Miah M G
Published: February 2024

Pollution of surface water and heavy metals is one of the growing concerns worldwide due to industrialization and unplanned urbanization. The surface water pollution level was studied by assessing the physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentration of collected samples in Gazipur district. Maximum average temperature(35.200C±2.63), EC(1423µs/cm), and TDS(746.5mg/l) were observed in Kaliakoir upazila. These parameters were found minimum in Kapasia upazila. DO was found above 5mg/l in Sreepur, Kapasia and Kaliganj. Cr and Ni were too low to detect by the instrument. The maximum average concentration of Pb(925.6917µg/l), Mn(477.8625µg/l), and Na(11230.17µg/l) was observed in Kaliakoir upazila. However, no Fe was observed in Kaliakoir upazila. The maximum Fe concentration was Sreepur upazila (3531.6µg/l) followed by Sadar (1496.517µg/l) upazila. Maximum average Cd concentration was observed in Kapasia (41.28µg/l) followed by Kaliakoir (30.8767µg/l), Sadar (29.4283µg/l) and Sreepur (28.8042µg/l). Cu concentration was found maximum in Kaliganj (14.205µg/l) followed by Sadar (6.29µg/l) and Kaliakoir (3.893µg/l). However, Cu concentration was found nil in Kapasia. The maximum average concentration of Ca(29197.25µg/l) and Mg(8142.833µg/l) was observed in Kaliganj and the minimum concentration was observed in Sreepur upazila. The order of concentration of heavy metals in the study area is Ca>Na>Mg>Fe>Pb>Mn>Cd>Cu>Ni>Cr. From the findings, the physicochemical parameters of the surface water sources were found higher than the standards in most of the samples.
Adsorption isotherm model of Hg2+ with biochar from young coconut waste
Authors: Prasetyo T B , Maulana A , Harianti M , Lita A L , Dwipa I , Monikasari M , Herviyanti H
Published: February 2024

Biochar is a carbon-rich byproduct of biomass pyrolysis that may be used to restrict Hg mobility in soil by utilizing amelioration technology. This study examines the ability of biochar from young coconut waste to adsorb Hg in solution. Isothermal adsorption of Hg by batch equilibrium method. The basic principle of Hg adsorption behavior with biochar from young coconut waste (B-YCW) processed through the Kon-Tiki method at a temperature of 682 0C, moisture of 81.27%, and a yield ratio of 20.87% at a size of 0.5 mm. The adsorption of Hg2+ on B-YCW increased with increasing Hg concentration and decreasing pH. The capacity and adsorption coefficient of Hg2+ by biochar from young coconut waste was 312.88 mg g−1 and 69.64 L Kg−1 at a pH of 1.55 and a concentration of 100 mg L−1 Hg2+. The adsorption isotherm of Hg2+ occurs in the Freundlich and Langmuir models (Freundlich > Langmuir). The Freundlich model (y = 1.0375x - 1.2523; R² = 1) with a value of n of 0.96 and KF of 17.78 (L mg−1)1/n, and the Langmuir II model (y = 17.126x - 0.0244; R² = 1), with average Qm was 18.57 mg g−1; KL 68.198 L mg−1 and RL 0.0054 (favorable) from the Langmuir isotherm model.
Identification of food type and feeding behavior of sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii) at the Ketambe Research Station in Gunung Leuser National Park
Authors: Yanti L A , Moulana R , Limbong B M Br. , Syafruddin S , Iqbar I , Siregar A W , Rosita I , Jamilah M , Ar Rasyid U H
Published: February 2024

As an endangered animal, sumatran orangutans ( Pongo abelii ) in Indonesia are declining rapidly. The extinction of food sources that formerly supported their diets is one of the factors that has contributed to this predicament. This paper aims to discover sumatran orangutans’ food types and feeding behaviors at the Ketambe Research Station, Aceh Province, Indonesia. Two orangutans, Chris and Kelly, were the subjects of this study, and their behavior and environment were observed and recorded using the focal animal sampling approach. The study uncovered 29 distinct forms of food (27 plant species and 2 insect species). The type of fruit most consumed by sumatran orangutans ( Pongo abelii ) at the Ketambe Research Station is Ficus racemosa, followed by Ficus obscura, Pandanus sp., and Ficus variegata. The type of leaf most consumed by sumatran orangutans ( Pongo abelii ) is Loides cirrosa, followed by Acacia pennata and Sindapsus hederaceus. Then, their eating behavior patterns cover choosing, holding, taking, and eating the food. The orangutans like eating their meal high up in a tree. As they lead semi-solitary, arboreal lifestyles, preserving the forest ecosystems in which they thrive is crucial.
Natural radionuclide content in horticulture plants from former tin mining land and health risk assessment: A case study on Bangka Belitung Island, Indonesia
Authors: Mellawati June , Nurtjahya Eddy
Published: February 2024

As a tin producer in Indonesia, Bangka Belitung has abandoned tin mining land containing natural radionuclides, and its use for cultivating horticultural crops has health risks. The aim of the research was to determine the contribution of former tin mining land to natural radionuclide contamination in horticultural products and to assess the radiation hazards by determining the annual effective dose and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR). The methodology includes sampling vegetables, fruit, and tubers from several villages in Bangka. Measurement of natural radionuclides using a Gamma Spectrometer at their specific energy. The research results showed that the radionuclides Ra-226, Th-232, K-40 were found in vegetables, fruit, and tubers samples. The highest Ra-226 was found in bitter melon and spinach, Th-232 in cassava leaves, spinach, and bitter melon, while K-40 in bitter melon, spinach, cassava leaves, papaya leaves, mustard greens. The activity rank of Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40 is shown in tubers > vegetables > fruit. The total annual effective dose (AED) from vegetable and fruit consumption is 0.6330 mSv/year, as recommended by UNSCEAR (1 mSv/year), except consumption of tubers (galangal). The ELCR value of vegetable, fruit, and cassava (tubers) consumption is 1.08x10−3; 0.75x10−3; and 0.42x10−3, as recommended by the ICRP.
Effect of Interparticle Distance on Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics on Wave Transformation Through Submerged Breakwater
Authors: Sujantoko  , Rasman I. F. , Mustain M. , Pratikto W. A. , Frestiqauli S.
Published: February 2024

Beach abrasion and erosion are problems that many beaches in Indonesia experience. Waves are the most influential processes in this phenomenon. When the waves move towards the coast, they will transform, generating currents near the coast. Currents moving along the coast displace sediment on the beach, causing changes in the shoreline. So it is necessary to carry out coastal protection efforts so that abrasion does not occur, which results in the erosion of coastal areas so that the island’s area is reduced and the coastline retreats. To overcome this problem, one of the supporting facilities is a submerged breakwater. In this paper, researchers will numerically study the effect of particle size on smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) when waves pass through a submerged breakwater structure. The simulation is carried out on a Numerical Wave Tank (NWT), the piston is at the end of the tank, and the structure of the submerged breakwater is set according to the experimental scenario. The distance between the particles varied from 0.03, 0.025, 0.02, 0.015, and 0.01. The results show that the smaller the distance between the particles used, the wave elevation results are closer to the experimental model.
Analysis of deck house height and center of gravity in anti-capsize patrol boat
Authors: Taqi H F M , Trimulyono A , Mursid O , Hakim M L
Published: February 2024

The design of patrol boats, especially in Indonesian waters which have extreme sea conditions, requires fairly good stability capabilities and special self-righting capabilities. Designing a self-righting ship will be closely related to the ship stability because the center of gravity (G) is affected by the load and the height of the deckhouse of a ship, which has implications for the ship’s self-righting. Present study was carried out with experimental study for patrol boat design that has capability self-righting moment. The patroal boat has 4 deckhouse height variations with 2.01 m, 2.11 m, 2.21 m, and 2.31 m, respectively. There are 4 variations of the load conditions, i.e., the condition with 50% of the maximum amount of cargo, the condition 50% the passengers and cargo, full load condition without passengers, and the last one is the condition of the passenger baggage is only 50%. The results showed that a deckhouse with a height of 2.01 m has the worst GZ curve analysis, where in some conditions the results touch a negative number before heeling to 180°. The results showed by trial and error that the minimum deckhouse height is 2.07 m to have a self-righting moment in all conditions.
The application of OREDA (offshore reliability data) in developing valve criticality analysis criteria
Authors: Priyanta D , Zaman M B , Semin
Published: February 2024

In oil and gas processing plants, extensive networks of hundreds to thousands of valves are vital in controlling the entire process. However, not all valves have the same importance in process control. Therefore, identifying and prioritizing critical valves is essential for efficient and safe operation. Assessing the importance of valves requires a risk-based approach. However, quantifying the associated risks becomes challenging, especially when limited field data makes it difficult to model the probability of valve failure. One possible solution is to use Offshore Reliability Data (OREDA) as a valuable failure probability data source. OREDA provides valuable insight into historical failure and performance data related to oil and gas equipment such as valves. To go one step further, the new proposal presented in this paper includes implementing a modified OREDA approach that considers the cumulative operating time of the valve. By considering cumulative operating hours, a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of failure probability can be achieved, enabling more informed decision-making regarding valve criticality and prioritization of maintenance.
Real time AIS tracking system for fishermen using microcontroller-based approach
Authors: Rohman A , Rulianto J , Wahid A
Published: February 2024

Fishing activities in the waters of Banyuwangi are relatively intense. Local fishermen often venture 50 nautical miles from the coastline using small boats. These boats are lacking adequate communication and navigation equipment, causing difficulties in obtaining assistance during emergencies. This study aims to develop an Automatic Identification System (AIS) device to be installed on fishing boats. The AIS device developed for this research incorporates the STM32F4 microcontroller, CMX7032 Evaluation Board, VHF Antenna, and Global Positioning System (GPS) as its main components. The integration and configuration of each component will be elaborated in this paper. Performance testing has yielded promising results, as the AIS device was capable of transmitting data up to 10 nautical miles from the Base Station. Utilization of AIS technology would enhance safety and communication among fishermen. Through careful integration and configuration of these components, the AIS device effectively ensures that the fishermen’s positions are accurately tracked and communicated. The successful development and testing of this device underscore its potential to bridge the communication gap, offering timely assistance and enhancing the overall safety of these seafarers.
Analysis of occupational accident risk in breakwater construction and floating piers
Authors: Silvianita  , Atmaja A P , Shafiq N
Published: February 2024

In every implementation of the project, work accidents can occur which result in injury or other losses. One of the projects that has the potential for work accidents is the floating dock construction work. The purpose of writing this paper is to find out the dominant hazard variable in floating piers and breakwater construction work, to know the causes and effects of the dominant hazard variable, and to know the right dominant risk control risk control in floating wharf construction work. This research begins with hazard identification using several sources and also direct discussions with resource persons who understand this work. Then a questionnaire was distributed to obtain the likelihood and severity values of the existing hazard variables. From the results of distributing the questionnaires, tests were carried out using validity and reliability tests on each hazard variable that might occur. The results of the tests carried out obtained a valid hazard variable and were then analysed using HIRA which was assisted by a risk matrix. So that the results of the analysis are known to be the dominant hazard variable, namely workers falling and sinking into the sea. Furthermore, an analysis of the two variables is carried out to determine the causes and also the impact of risks that can occur using a bow-tie diagram to reduce the occurrence of dominant potential hazards.
Morpho-dynamic Induced Rip Currents in Klayar Beach, Pacitan, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Wahyudi  , Tiffany Vierda Khairene , Mulyadi Yeyes , Armono Haryo Dwito , Sambodho Kriyo , Sembiring Leo Eliasta , Viet Nguyen Trung
Published: February 2024

Klayar Beach (KB), Pacitan, East Java, Indonesia is a rugged coast with a narrow sand beach, a relatively small embayment with rocky headlands, and a very exotic view as a coastal tourism destination. Despite its attractiveness, KB poses a hazard due to rip currents. From 2009 to 2022, KB visited more than 3 million people, and more than 30 people were reported dead due to drowning in rip currents. This paper presents the result of fieldwork to investigate morpho-dynamic driven rip current hazard of the study area. This study carried out bathymetric and topographic mapping and sediment sampling. The last 10 years’ wave data was used for predicting hydrodynamic parameters. The study shows a good correlation between a variety of incoming significant wave heights and tide fluctuation vs. rip current velocity. The existence of headland plays a significant role in rip current formation in the study area. The headland influences either shadow or deflected rip currents formation for the incoming wave angle. The study also indicates that the type of rip current in the KB is structural boundary controlled, and the most important thing to be alerted for promoting beach safety in this area is that this rip current is predicted permanently to occur.
Roadmap for unconventional computing with nanotechnology
Authors: Finocchio Giovanni , Incorvia Jean Anne C , Friedman Joseph S , Yang Qu , Giordano Anna , Grollier Julie , Yang Hyunsoo , Ciubotaru Florin , Chumak Andrii V , Naeemi Azad J , Cotofana Sorin D , Tomasello Riccardo , Panagopoulos Christos , Carpentieri Mario , Lin Peng , Pan Gang , Yang J Joshua , Todri-Sanial Aida , Boschetto Gabriele , Makasheva Kremena , Sangwan Vinod K , Trivedi Amit Ranjan , Hersam Mark C , Camsari Kerem Y , McMahon Peter L , Datta Supriyo , Koiller Belita , Aguilar Gabriel H , Temporão Guilherme P , Rodrigues Davi R , Sunada Satoshi , Everschor-Sitte Karin , Tatsumura Kosuke , Goto Hayato , Puliafito Vito , Åkerman Johan , Takesue Hiroki , Ventra Massimiliano Di , Pershin Yuriy V , Mukhopadhyay Saibal , Roy Kaushik , Ting Wang I- , Kang Wang , Zhu Yao , Kaushik Brajesh Kumar , Hasler Jennifer , Ganguly Samiran , Ghosh Avik W , Levy William , Roychowdhury Vwani , Bandyopadhyay Supriyo
Published: February 2024

In the ‘Beyond Moore’s Law’ era, with increasing edge intelligence, domain-specific computing embracing unconventional approaches will become increasingly prevalent. At the same time, adopting a variety of nanotechnologies will offer benefits in energy cost, computational speed, reduced footprint, cyber resilience, and processing power. The time is ripe for a roadmap for unconventional computing with nanotechnologies to guide future research, and this collection aims to fill that need. The authors provide a comprehensive roadmap for neuromorphic computing using electron spins, memristive devices, two-dimensional nanomaterials, nanomagnets, and various dynamical systems. They also address other paradigms such as Ising machines, Bayesian inference engines, probabilistic computing with p-bits, processing in memory, quantum memories and algorithms, computing with skyrmions and spin waves, and brain-inspired computing for incremental learning and problem-solving in severely resource-constrained environments. These approaches have advantages over traditional Boolean computing based on von Neumann architecture. As the computational requirements for artificial intelligence grow 50 times faster than Moore’s Law for electronics, more unconventional approaches to computing and signal processing will appear on the horizon, and this roadmap will help identify future needs and challenges. In a very fertile field, experts in the field aim to present some of the dominant and most promising technologies for unconventional computing that will be around for some time to come. Within a holistic approach, the goal is to provide pathways for solidifying the field and guiding future impactful discoveries.
Where will the next oil spill incident in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria occur?
Authors: Wekpe Vremudia Onyeayana , Whitworth Malcolm , Baily Brian
Published: February 2024

Oil spill incidents are almost a daily occurrence within the Niger Delta region of Nigeria with far-reaching environmental, economic and social consequences. This study aimed at understanding the spatial and temporal context of the problem as a panacea for forecasting likely locations of oil spill incidents within the region. About 76.77% of crude oil spilt in the Niger Delta is lost to the environment with only about 23% of the crude oil recovered from the environment. This represents a very worrying statistic in terms of the known and unknown negative impacts of oil spills. Space Time Pattern Mining (STPM) tools were adapted to explore and interrogate historical spill data. Time series forecasting was then used for forecasting possible locations of future oil spills within the region. Results show that there is a pattern of oil spill occurrences in the Niger Delta with statistically significant hotspots identified in Rivers State, Bayelsa State and Delta State. The forecast root mean square error (RMSE) and forecast validation RMSE are −1.016328 and 1.035992 respectively. This suggests an ability of the model to fairly predict likely locations of future oil spills. This was further verified by counting the number of spills that occur within any area based on the predicted likelihood of spill occurrence. This study has shown that STPM tools can be deployed to understand the occurrence and prediction of oil spill incidents. This will ultimately aid in the deployment of scarce management resources to where they are most needed.
Mathematics and the formal turn
Authors: Avigad Jeremy
Published: February 2024

Since the early twentieth century, it has been understood that mathematical definitions and proofs can be represented in formal systems with precise grammars and rules of use. Building on such foundations, computational proof assistants now make it possible to encode mathematical knowledge in digital form. This article enumerates some of the ways that these and related technologies can help us do mathematics.
Physical compatibility of colistin with analgesics during simulated Y-site administration
Authors: Dettlaff Katarzyna , Kowalska Aleksandra , Gostyńska Aleksandra
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Special consideration is needed when intravenous drugs are administered simultaneously using a Y-site connector. This study aimed to investigate the physical compatibility of colistin with 6 analgesics at concentrations commonly used in clinical practice.

Methods

A pharmaceutical preparation of colistin was dissolved according to the manufacturer’s instructions and diluted to a concentration of 1.5 mg/mL or 0.67 mg/mL (of colistin base). Simulated administration via Y-site infusion set was performed by mixing 5 mL of colistin solution with an equal volume of a solution of one of 6 intravenous analgesics. Infusion solutions of ibuprofen, ketoprofen, metamizole sodium, morphine sulfate, paracetamol, and tramadol hydrochloride were studied. For each analgesic tested, concentrates for injection were diluted with 2 solvents, resulting in 11 different combinations with each concentration of the colistin solution. The mixtures were visually inspected, and their turbidity was measured directly after mixing and at 3 consecutive time points (30, 60, and 120 minutes). Additionally, the pH of the mixtures was measured after 120 minutes and compared with the pH of the analgesic and the colistin solutions.

Results

During visual inspection with the unaided eye, no precipitate formation or gas evolution was observed in any of the tested analgesics except for sodium metamizole, where the yellow color of the solutions was observed. For samples containing the mixture of ibuprofen and colistin, the turbidity measurements revealed the presence of turbidity in the studied mixtures. The greatest change in pH relative to the value immediately after preparation was noted for combinations of ketoprofen and morphine sulfate with the tested antibiotic.

Conclusion

Colistin was found to be incompatible with ibuprofen and metamizole sodium formulations. It should also not be combined with morphine sulfate due to the significant differences in the pH value of the preparations. The colistin 0.67 mg/mL and 1.5 mg/mL infusion solutions were physically compatible with ketoprofen, tramadol hydrochloride, and paracetamol.
Cognitive resilience in Alzheimer’s disease: from large-scale brain networks to synapses
Authors: Negro Danilo , Opazo Patricio
Published: February 2024

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Alteration of functional connectivity network in population of objectively-defined subtle cognitive decline’ by Zhang et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcae033) and ‘Posterior cingulate cortex reveals an expression profile of resilience in cognitively intact elders’ by Kelley et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcac162) in Brain Communications and ‘Determinants of cognitive and brain resilience to tau pathology: a longitudinal analysis’ by Bocancea et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awad100) in Brain
Peacekeeping, policing and politics: assembling the Ghana Armed Forces
Authors: Albrecht Peter , Edu-Afful Fiifi
Published: February 2024

While much of the peacekeeping literature fixates on mission deployments, associated challenges and the escalating violent contexts they navigate, this article underscores the transformative reverberations of peacekeeping on troop-contributing countries. Drawing from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) case, our main focus is to elucidate how international peacekeeping shapes domestic security procedures, but we also point out that they are reciprocally influenced by them. Central to our analysis is the concept of ‘peacekeeping assemblage’ that we introduce to highlight the symbiotic relationship between the GAF's domestic security roles and its international peacekeeping engagements. Through this lens, we trace the cyclical flow of practices, discourses and experiences as they disassemble and reassemble in varied configurations, emphasizing the fluidity of peacekeeping influences across global landscapes. As discussions on peacekeeping evolve, it becomes paramount to grasp its broader implications—particularly its transformative impact on the personnel from troop-contributing nations and their home societies. This enriched perspective not only deepens our comprehension of the multifaceted nature and global reach of peacekeeping, it also provides policy-makers with insights into the broader ramifications of deployments, especially for those nations from the global South that bear the weight of these missions.
HIV Immunocapture Reveals Particles Expressed in Semen Under Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitor-Based Therapy Are Largely Myeloid Cell-Derived and Disparate
Authors: Johnson Jeffrey A , Li Jin-fen , Politch Joseph A , Lipscomb Jonathan T , Tino Ariana Santos , DeFelice Jason , Gelman Marcy , Anderson Deborah J , Mayer Kenneth H
Published: February 2024

As use of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTI) increases and formulations are being developed for maintenance therapies and chemoprophylaxis, assessing virus suppression under INSTI-based regimens in prevention-relevant biologic compartments, such as the male genital tract, is timely. We used cell-source marker virion immunocapture to examine amplification of particle RNA then assessed the phylogenetic relatedness of seminal and blood viral sequences from men with HIV who were prescribed INSTI-based regimens. Seminal plasma immunocaptures yielded amplifiable virion RNA from 13 of 24 (54%) men, and the sequences were primarily associated with markers indicative of macrophage and resident dendritic cell sources. Genetic distances were greatest (>2%) between seminal virions and circulating proviruses, pointing to ongoing low-level expression from tissue-resident cells. While the low levels in semen predict an improbable likelihood of transmission, viruses with large genetic distances are expressed under potent INSTI therapy and have implications for determining epidemiologic linkages if adherence is suboptimal.
Extracellular polymeric substances in electroactive biofilms play a crucial role in improving the efficiency of microbial fuel and electrolysis cells
Authors: Catal Tunc , Liu Hong , Kilinc Burak , Yilancioglu Kaan
Published: February 2024

In microbial electrochemical cells (MECs), electroactive microbial biofilms can transmit electrons from organic molecules to anodes. To further understand the production of anodic biofilms, it is essential to investigate the composition and distribution of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) in the MECs. In this study, the structure of EPS was examined in microbial electrolysis cells from mixed cultures forming biofilm using carbon fiber fabric anode. EPS was extracted from the anode biofilm of microbial electrolysis cells inoculated with mixed microbial culture. The anode biofilm yielded 0.4 mg of EPS, of which 51.2% was humic substance, 16.2% was protein, 12.6% was carbohydrates, and 20% consisted of undetermined substances. Using epifluorescence microscopy, the composition of bacterial cells and their location inside EPS were studied, and the distribution of microbial communities was compared based on current density results in the presence of various carbohydrates. On the electrode surface, bacteria and EPS gathered or overlapped in various locations can affect microbial electrochemical performance. Our findings showed that EPS formation in electroactive biofilms would be important for enhanced efficiency of electricity- or hydrogen-producing microbial electrolysis cells.
Constraining the interaction history of Arp 269 using stellar population synthesis modelling
Authors: Mandal Suvadip , Kerton C R
Published: February 2024

We present stellar population synthesis modelling of the nearby interacting galaxy system NGC 4485/90 or Arp 269 using Code Investigating GALaxy Emission. Model results are used to constrain its interaction history and to examine the origin of structures within the system. We have used multiwavelength observations ranging from far-ultraviolet to radio wavelengths to create, model, and fit spectral energy distributions and obtain physical properties of different regions. Our analysis reveals a young and an underlying much older stellar population in both NGC 4485 and 4490. We find the bridge connecting the two galaxies to be formed quite recently, after the second perigalactic encounter between the two. Our analysis shows that the previously identified faint stellar extension associated with NGC 4490 was also formed after the second encounter, which agrees with previous N-body and test-particle simulations. Additionally, we investigate the H i gas distribution in NGC 4485 and find that a mass of H i gas comparable to a dwarf galaxy has been relocated to the south-west part of NGC 4485. This is consistent with the scenario in which the interstellar medium of NGC 4485 is being removed via ram pressure stripping.
Hydrodynamic models of pulsation period evolution in R Hydrae
Authors: Fadeyev Yuri A
Published: February 2024

Pulsation period evolution during the helium–shell flash in the Mira variable R Hya is investigated using consistent stellar evolution and non-linear stellar pulsation computations. The initial and time-dependent inner boundary conditions for the equations of radiation hydrodynamics describing non-linear stellar oscillations were determined using a grid of TP–AGB model sequences with initial masses on the main sequence 1.5M⊙ ≤ MZAMS ≤ 5.0M⊙ and the initial metallicity Z = 0.014. The setup of initial conditions for hydrodynamic models corresponds to ≈100 yr prior to the maximum of the helium–shell luminosity and ensures that the stellar envelope of the evolution model is under both hydrostatic and thermal equilibrium. Solution of the equations of hydrodynamics allowed us to determine the temporal variation of the pulsation period Π(t) during ≈500 yr. Within this time interval R Hya is a fundamental mode pulsator. The period temporal dependencies Π(t) calculated for the AGB star models at the beginning of the third dredge-up phase and with masses $4.4M_{\odot }\lessapprox M\lessapprox 4.5M_{\odot }$ are in agreement with observational estimates of the period of R Hya obtained during last two centuries. The mean radius of R Hya pulsation models at the end of the XX century ($470 R_{\odot }\lessapprox \bar{R}\lessapprox 490 R_{\odot }$) agrees with observational estimates obtained using the interferometric angular diameter measurements.
Constraining cosmic reionization by combining the kinetic Sunyaev–Zel’dovich and the 21 cm power spectra
Authors: Georgiev Ivelin , Gorce Adélie , Mellema Garrelt
Published: February 2024

During the Epoch of Reionization (EoR), the ultraviolet radiation from the first stars and galaxies ionized the neutral hydrogen of the intergalactic medium, which can emit radiation through its 21 cm hyperfine transition. Measuring the 21 cm power spectrum is a key science goal for the future Square Kilometre Array (SKA); however, observing and interpreting it is a challenging task. Another high-potential probe of the EoR is the patchy kinetic Sunyaev–Zel’dovich (pkSZ) effect, observed as a foreground to the cosmic microwave background temperature anisotropies on small scales. Despite recent promising measurements, placing constraints on reionization from pkSZ observations is a non-trivial task, subject to strong model dependence. We propose to alleviate the difficulties in observing and interpreting the 21 cm and pkSZ power spectra by combining them. With a simple yet effective parametric model that establishes a formal connection between them, we can jointly fit mock 21 cm and pkSZ data points. We confirm that these observables provide complementary information on reionization, leading to significantly improved constraints when combined. We demonstrate that with as few as two measurements of the 21 cm power spectrum with 100 h of observations with the SKA, as well as a single ℓ = 3000 pkSZ data point, we can reconstruct the reionization history of the universe and its morphology. We find that the reionization history (morphology) is better constrained with two 21 cm measurements at different redshifts (scales). Therefore, a combined analysis of the two probes will give access to tighter constraints on cosmic reionization even in the early stages of 21 cm detections.
Validation of the Oswestry Disability Index in Adult Spinal Deformity
Authors: Jalali Omid , Smith Justin S. , Bess Shay , Hostin Richard , Lafage Renaud , Lafage Virginie , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Ames Christopher P. , Lenke Lawrence G. , Kelly Michael P. ,   on behalf of the International Spine Study Group
Published: February 2024

Study Design.

Retrospective cohort

Objective.

To examine the validity of the ODI in ASD patients treated with surgery.

Summary of Background Data.

The ODI is a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) of low back pain and disability. While nearly ubiquitous in adult spinal deformity (ASD) research, the measure has not been validated in this patient population.

Methods.

A registry of ASD patients was queried for baseline and 1-year PROM data, including the ODI, the SRS-22r, and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System – Pain Interference (PI), and -Physical Function(PF) computer adaptive tests (CAT). Internal reliability was assessed with Cronbach’s alpha, where values≥0.7 are considered reliable. Validity was assessed with Spearman correlation coefficients calculated for the ODI against validated PROMIS-Pain Interference and -Physical Function and legacy measures SRS-Pain, SRS-Activity. Responsiveness to change was measured with the adjusted effect size (aES).

Results.

325 patients were enrolled, with 208 completing baseline and one-year PROMs. The majority (149, 72%) were female and white (193, 93%), median Charlson Comorbidity Index 0 (IQR 0-2). The majority of cases included sagittal plane deformity (mean T1PA 24.2° (13.9). Cronbach’s alpha showed excellent internal reliability (Baseline=0.89, 1yr=0.90). ODI was valid, with strong correlations between PROMIS-PI, -PF, SRS-Pain, and SRS-Activity at baseline and one-year follow-up. All measures were responsive to change, with the ODI showing greater responsiveness than PROMIS-PI, PROMIS-PF and SRS-Activity.

Conclusions.

The ODI is a valid measure of disability as measured by pain and function in patients with ASD. It is responsive to change in a manner not different from validated PROMIS-CAT or the SRS-22r legacy measure. It is multidimensional, however, as it assesses both pain and function simultaneously. It does not measure disability related to Self-Image and may not account for all disease-related disability in ASD patients.
Emerging Therapies for Treatment-Resistant Hypertension: A Review of Lorundrostat and Related Selective Aldosterone Synthase Inhibitors
Authors: Feldman Jared M. , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: February 2024

The target-hypertension (Target-HTN) trial investigated the efficacy and safety of lorundrostat, an aldosterone synthase inhibitor, as an antihypertensive. Cohort 1 of the trial includes patients with suppressed plasma renin activity and elevated aldosterone levels. Lorundrostat doses of 100 mg and 50 mg daily significantly decreased systolic blood pressure compared to the placebo group. Cohort 2 also demonstrated a reduction in systolic blood pressure with the 100 mg daily dose of lorundrostat. Lorundrostat is more selective for the inhibition of CYP11B2 versus CYP11B1, which makes it preferable to other aldosterone synthase inhibitors that inhibit cortisol synthesis, such as osilodrostat. Phase 3 trials are needed to validate the safety and efficacy of lorundrostat, and further research should be performed on other selective aldosterone synthase inhibitors such as baxdrostat, dexfadrostat, and BI 690517.
Therapeutic restoration of miR-126-3p as a multi-targeted strategy to modulate the liver tumor microenvironment
Authors: Gondaliya Piyush , Driscoll Julia , Yan Irene K. , Ali Sayyed Adil , Patel Tushar
Published: February 2024

Background:

Impaired natural killer (NK) cell-mediated antitumor responses contribute to the growth of liver tumors. Expression of a disintegrin and metalloprotease 9 (ADAM9) increases shedding of membrane-bound major histocompatibility complex class I chain-related protein A and results in evasion from NK cell-mediated cytolysis. ADAM9 is also involved in angiogenesis and tumor progression and is a target of miR-126-3p, a tumor suppressor that is downregulated and alters tumor cell behavior in the liver and other cancers. We evaluated the restoration of miR-126-3p and modulation of the miR-126-3p/ADAM9 axis as a therapeutic approach to simultaneously enhance NK cell-mediated cytolysis while targeting both tumor cells and their microenvironment.

Methods:

Precursor miRNAs were loaded into milk-derived nanovesicles to generate therapeutic vesicles (therapeutic milk-derived nanovesicles) for the restoration of functional miR-126-3p in recipient cancer cells.

Results:

Administration of therapeutic milk-derived nanovesicles increased miR-126-3p expression and reduced ADAM9 expression in target cells and was associated with an increase in membrane-bound major histocompatibility complex class I chain-related protein A. This enhanced NK cell cytolysis in adherent tumor cells and in multicellular tumor spheroids while also impairing angiogenesis and modulating macrophage chemotaxis. Moreover, IV administration of therapeutic milk-derived nanovesicles with adoptive transfer of NK cells reduced tumor burden in orthotopic hepatocellular cancer xenografts in mice.

Conclusion:

A directed RNA therapeutic approach can mitigate NK cell immune evasion, reduce angiogenesis, and alter the tumor cell phenotype through the restoration of miR-126-3p in liver tumor cells. The pleiotropic effects elicited by this multi-targeted approach to modulate the local tumor microenvironment support its use for the treatment of liver cancer.
Late Neonatal Sepsis in Very-low-birth-weight Premature Newborns Is Associated With Alterations in Neurodevelopment at Twenty-five Months of Age
Authors: Uberos Jose , Nieto-Ruiz Ana , Contreras Chova Francisco , Carrasco-Solis Marta , Ruiz-López Aida , Fernandez-Marín Elisabeth , Laynez-Rubio Carolina , Campos-Martinez Ana
Published: February 2024

Aim:

To evaluate the impact of late-onset sepsis (LOS) on the neurodevelopment of very-low–birth-weight (VLBW) premature infants.

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort study of VLBW premature infants. The Mental Development Index (MDI) was determined for a population of 546 VLBW infants, at 14 and 25 months of age, and evaluated using the Bayley test. A history of meningitis or early neonatal sepsis was considered an exclusion criterion. The study parameters analyzed included perinatal variables, the development of neonatal comorbidities and a history of LOS. Multivariate linear regression and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results:

LOS was observed in 115 newborns, among whom microbiological testing showed that 65.0% presented Gram-positive bacteria, with Staphylococcus epidermidis being responsible for 55.4%. There was a significant association between the 25-month MDI and a history of LOS. This represents a decrease of 7.9 points in the MDI evaluation of newborns with a history of LOS. The latter history is also associated with the following neurodevelopmental alternations: mild motor disorders [odds ratio (OR): 2.75; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.07–7.05], moderate cognitive delay (OR: 3.07; 95% CI: 1.17–8.00) and cerebral palsy (OR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.09–5.35).

Conclusions:

In our study cohort, LOS was associated with alterations in neurodevelopment, including reduced MDI, together with motor and cognitive disorders and cerebral palsy. To improve neurodevelopmental outcomes in this group of newborns, neonatal intensive care unit personnel should focus attention on preventing hospital-acquired infections.
Population-based Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus Hospitalizations and In-hospital Mortality Rates Among Mexican Children Less Than Five Years of Age
Authors: Mata-Moreno Gabriel , Bernal-Silva Sofía , García-Sepúlveda Christian A. , González-Ortíz Ana María , Ochoa-Pérez Uciel R. , Medina-Serpa Aldo Uzziel , Pérez-González Luis Fernando , Noyola Daniel E.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Population-based information regarding the impact of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza on hospital admissions and mortality is scant for many countries.

Methods:

Prospective testing of RSV and influenza virus was undertaken in patients <5 years old admitted to hospital with acute respiratory infection (ARI) between July, 2014 and June, 2015, and mortality rates for children living in 3 municipalities in the state of San Luis Potosí were calculated.

Results:

During the 12-month study period, 790 children living in these municipalities were admitted with ARI. RSV was detected in 245 (31%) and influenza in 47 (5.9%). History of preterm birth was recorded for 112 children on admission. For children <5 years old, ARI-, RSV- and influenza-associated admission rates were 23.2, 7.2 and 1.4 (per 1000 population), respectively. The corresponding admission rates per 1000 infants <1 year old were 78, 25.2 and 4.4. Preterm infant admission rates were 2 times higher than those of term infants. Six children died; RSV was detected in 4 (66.6%) of the deceased, while no deaths were associated with influenza. ARI and RSV in-hospital mortality rates for children <5 years were 0.18 and 0.12 per 1000 population. ARI and RSV mortality rates in preterm infants were 7 and 14 times higher than in term infants, respectively.

Conclusions:

RSV was associated with both high admission and in-hospital mortality rates in children <5 years old. Specific interventions, such as active or passive immunization, to prevent RSV infections are required to reduce ARI-associated infant mortality.
Thrombopoietin receptor agonist and rituximab combination therapy in patients with refractory primary immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Witkowski Michał , Ryżewska Wiktoria , Robak Tadeusz
Published: February 2024

The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of this therapy in patients with refractory primary immune thrombocytopenia. It is crucial to develop alternative treatment methods for this patient group in order to achieve better response. This combination therapy combines two different mechanisms of action, which is promising in terms of targeting pathophysiology of immune thrombocytopenia. We conducted a retrospective study, which included all patients who were diagnosed with refractory primary immune thrombocytopenia and received TPO-RA and rituximab at the General Hematology Department, Copernicus Memorial Hospital in Lodz, Poland. We assessed the response, time to response and treatment-free remission (TFR). After 1 month of treatment, the complete response (CR1, PLT >100 g/l) was achieved in 62.5% patients, and response (R1, PLT >30 g/l) was achieved in 62.5% patients. The median PLT was 175 × 109/l. Within 1 month of treatment, 87.5% of patients achieved TFR. Adequately, after 6 months, CR6 and R6 was 62.5 and 75%. The median PLT was 182 × 109/l. Treatment-free remission 6 months after completion was in 50% of patients. The study group achieved response to treatment, which suggests that combination of TPO-RA and rituximab is effective and relatively well tolerated. Prospective study on larger group of patients is needed to better evaluate the efficiency and safety of this treatment.
Pathogenic Somatic Mutation of DICER1 and Clinicopathological Features in Nasal Chondromesenchymal Hamartomas
Authors: Hu Chunyan , Liu Yifeng , Lin Lan , Yuan Cuncun , Ma Duan , Huang Qiang
Published: February 2024

Nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma (NCMH) is a rare benign polypoid mesenchymal tumor arising in the nasal cavity and/or paranasal sinuses. Recognizing these sporadic, rare lesions is crucial, as surgical complete removal of the mass is the common treatment approach. This retrospective study analyzed the demographics, symptoms, and imaging data of 9 patients diagnosed with NCMH between January 2017 and June 2023, possibly representing the largest single-center adult case cohort to date. Diagnostic techniques included nasal endoscopy, CT/MRI scan, immunohistological studies, and morphologic comparisons. Pathologic specimens were subjected to Sanger sequencing of exons 24 and 25 of DICER1. The average age of 9 cases was 24.4 years, and the oldest was 55 years. Four of the patients were children, ranging from 1 year old to 11 years old, with an average of 4.5 years. Nasal congestion is the most common registered symptom. Endoscopic findings showed that most patients had smooth pink neoplasms or polypoid masses in the nasal meatus. Radiologic scanning revealed soft-tissue density masses that occupied the nasal cavity. Histologically, the characteristic structure of NCMHs is immature cellular cartilage nodules and mature cartilage nodules distributed in a loose mucoid matrix. Five of the 9 patients had somatic DICER1 missense mutations. Four of the patients with DICER1-mutated NCMH exhibited a p.E1813 missense hotspot mutation. We also report a case of a rare p.P1836H missense mutation. The detected DICER1 somatic mutations provide compelling evidence of an association with the DICER1 tumor family. We emphasize the importance of pathologic consultation and the need for pathologists to accumulate experience in NCMH diagnosis to avoid misdiagnosis.