bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greenhouse Gas Inventory Standard for Cities: a Case of Jakarta
Authors: Dewi RG , Siagian UWR , Parinderati R , Sevie GN , Hendrawan I , Wati D , Rakhmana R
Published: August 2021

This paper presents the results of a study on developing the GHG Emissions Inventory for Cities in Indonesia, in which Jakarta has become a case study. The inventory has measured and disclosed a comprehensive GHG emissions inventory and to total these emissions using an approach that categorizes all emissions into scopes, depending on where they physically occur, i.e., Scope 1 for direct emissions and Scope 2 for indirect emissions. The GHG emission level of Scope 1 is estimated based on the IPCC 2006 (Tier-1/2), while Scope 2 employs national/local emissions factor that refers to the grid-connected emission factor of JAMALI. Based on the latest inventory in 2018, the GHG emissions profile of Jakarta is summarized as follows, i.e., the GHG emissions of Scope 1 is from direct fuels combustion in transport, industry, commercial and residential sectors (33.5%), fuels combustion in two power generations located in Jakarta (13.8%), and the remaining 3.8% is from waste treatment activity. The GHG emission of Scope 2 (48.8%) comes from the use of electricity (supplied by JAMALI-grid) generated outside the boundary of Jakarta. In addition, this study also shows estimates result of local pollutants that are affecting air quality.
Gender Role in Farmers’ Livelihood Strategies at Peatland Area of Fire-Prone in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency South Sumatra Province
Authors: Nurlia A , Rahmat M , Waluyo E A , Purnama D H , Sabaruddin
Published: August 2021

Peatland management cannot be separated from the involvement of men and women. Gender role in farmer’s livelihoods on peatlands are an important factor for the implementation of community livelihood strategies after the policy of prohibiting burning in land management. The research is a survey research using a qualitative approach. The research was conducted in Pulu Beruang Village and Kayu Labu Village, Ogan Komering Ilir Regency. Data collection was carried out through field observations, interviews and Focus Group Discussions conducted in each village. Research indicated that in both villages, the dominant role in agricultural activities is significant by men, while women’s role in household activities. In terms of access to natural resource management, women and men have equal opportunities. The existence of peat management policy that tends to limit men in carrying out their livelihood systems makes women play a role in earning a living. Men dominate asset ownership, but women have an important role in decision making.
Covid-19: People Activity, Monitoring Development and Environmental Issue
Authors: Heriyati Pantri , Liawatimena Suryadiputra
Published: August 2021

This research attempt to propose the development of human mobility monitoring in the pandemic area in Indonesia. Current data on the COVID-19 is still alarming the world of the vast and aggressive spreading and the urgency to call on responsibilities for pandemic preparedness and response. Country answer to COVID-19 is mainly guided by the international situation, with the advice of organizations such as the WHO, investigation, data modeling based on the best available evidence, and the references. The system-wide response plans will have focused on the steadiness of public and vital public services and the stability of the economy, have been improved for COVID-19, based on the best available systematic evidence and guideline. The methodology uses a descriptive approach with mostly desk research. Data is collected from a secondary source and presented as a report format. For Indonesia COVID-19 situation, to monitor the people activity, this system development needs to find a suitable business center to be determined as a government-controlled logistics center. So that people activity can be more effective because transportation is reduced. With the active location feature activated at the user smartphone, then the system at any time can find out how many people are in a specific location. Their mobility is known at any time. This decision as a basis for the implementation of tracing, tracking, and fencing through infrastructure, systems, and telecommunications applications to support Health Surveillance, therefore, require the government reinforcement.
Ethanolic Extract of Black Cumin Seed Reduced Radical Reactive from Dimethylbenzanthracene Compounds
Authors: Akrom A , Mustofa  , Nurani L H
Published: August 2021

Dimethylbenzantracene is a compound that is radical reactive, genotoxic, and immunotoxic. Black cumin seeds have antioxidative properties. The study aimed to determine the effect of the black cumin seed ethanolic extract as an antioxidant by observing the secretion activity of ROI and NO peritoneal macrophages in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats induced by DMBA. This controlled experiment used 30 male SD rats. The test animals were randomly divided into six groups. Group I was given standard food and drink. Group II was given DMBA. Groups III, IV, and V were given EEBCS doses of 5, 25, and 125 mg orally for seven weeks, respectively. Group VI was given Imboost. From week 3 to week seven, all test animals were induced 10x20 DMBA, 2x per week.At week 16, all test animals were sacrificed and isolated and cultured peritoneal macrophage cells. The activity of ROI secretion and NO macrophage secretion was tested. Data on ROI secretion and NO levels were tested for ANOVA, followed by LSD test with a confidence level of 95%. The results showed that DMBA induction increased ROI secretion by macrophages and decreased NO.EEBCS secretion decreased ROI secretion and grew NO. The DMBA group had the lowest NO levels. This study concluded that EEBCS at doses 5 and 125 reduced the flow of ROI peritoneal macrophages in SD rats induced by DMBA but reduced NO levels.
Hygiene and Sanitation on Post-Harvest Coffee Processing in the South OKU Regency Comunity (Case Study)
Authors: Lilia D , Damiri N , Zulkarnain M , Mulawarman
Published: August 2021

One of the Robusta coffee producing areas in South Sumatera is South Ogan Komering Ulu Regency and it has an area of 70,799 hectares which is spread across 11 sub-districts. This study aims to assess the level of hygiene and sanitation in post-harvest coffee processing, and it was conducted through direct surveys at harvest time and by interviews and questionnaires. Sampling was carried out deliberately, on 30 coffee farmers spread across eleven villages in BPR Ranau Tengah Sub-District. The results showed that the farmers had not yet implemented hygiene and sanitation in post-harvest processing which involved every activity from the picking of the fruit to its storage. At the fruit picking stage, all colors were collected and then dried together without any sorting. The drying stage did not meet the post-harvest coffee processing standards, as it resulted in high water content of the beans, which was between 62,26 ±0,76% and 13,97±0,55. Likewise, the storage process did not meet the hygiene and sanitation standards because not only were the coffee beans put in sacks, they were also stored in poorly ventilated warehouses or storage areas and mixed with other commodities. This predisposed them to fungi contamination. Two ocratoxin producing fungi, namely, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus ochraceus were found in processed and stored coffee beans that did not meet hygiene and sanitation standards.
Protein Energy Deficiency Increases the Risk of Anemia in Pregnant Women
Authors: Mulyantoro D K , Kusrini I
Published: August 2021

Pregnancy is a special physiological period that involves the ingestion of macro and micronutrients in maternal and fetal diseases. Protein-energy deficiency (PED) is the result of the lack of food intake over a long period of (chronic) time in adequate quantity and quality primarily among low socio-economic classes. Meanwhile, anemia is a major nutritional issue for pregnant women in Indonesia that showed inadequate iron intake. This study is aimed to determine the risk of chronic protein-energy deficiency in pregnant women against anemia. 207 pregnant women participated in the cross-sectional study. Anemia was measured by hemoglobin value using the Cyanmethemoglobin method. PED has been identified by measuring the middle-upper arm circumference (MUAC) and measured body height by microtoice instrument. To test the risk of PED to anemia, a multivariate logistic regression analysis was used. The results found that 47.8 % of pregnant women with hemoglobin levels < 12 g/l(anemia). MUAC < 23.5 cm (PED) 16.9 % and body height < 150 cm (stunted) is 44.4%. After adjusted with gestational age and height factors, PED has a risk of 2.18 fold to anemia. Protein-energy deficiency in pregnant women may increase the risk of anemia.
Relationship between Particulate Matter and Population of Airborne Microorganism in Goat Farm: A case study at Ladang Pasir Akar, Terengganu
Authors: Mazlan A A , Azid A , Samsudin M S , Razik M A , Shaharudin S M
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study is to determine the concentration of particulate matter and airborne microorganism and to evaluate the relationship between particulate matter and airborne microorganism in goat farm of Pasir Akar, Terengganu, Malaysia. Aeroqual 500 series sensor was used to collect particulate matter, while DRF e-MAS was used to catch the airborne microorganism. The collected airborne microorganism was incubated in laboratory and the colony forming unit (cfu) of airborne microorganism was determined using Omeliansky’s formula based on colonial observation formed after incubation. The data were analysed using descriptive analysis to gain parameter concentration and regression analysis to gain significance difference and correlation to assess the relationship between particulates and airborne microbes. As a result, any particulate matter changes will affect airborne microorganism population.
Source of Carbon Dioxide Emissions Equivalent to Plant-Based Control Concept with Dynamic System in Prabumulih City, South Sumatra Province
Authors: Pratiwi Y , Rejo A , Fariani A , Faizal M
Published: August 2021

Emissions of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2eq) will continue to increase along with human activities that continuously carry out land conversion activities, increased use of vehicles, increased waste, and other activities. This study aims to analyze the factors causing an increase in carbon dioxide emissions in urban areas and plant-based control using causal loops with a dynamic systems approach. Through the analysis method using the causal loop, then determined the cause and effect relationship of each CO2eq emission source variable and its control efforts in Prabumulih City. The results of this study describe the causal loop relationship, both positive and negative relationships between variables from urban CO2eq emission sources and emission control by optimizing plant species as an absorber of CO2eq emissions.
Erosion Measurement by Using Rainfall Simulator at Grass Soil and After Harvested Soil in Wanagama
Authors: Kusumandari A , Satriagasa M C , Hadi Purwanto R , Widayanti W T
Published: August 2021

Erosion is a global problem, including in Wanagama. With the high risk of erosion, both naturally and due to high human activity, it is interesting and it is important to know how much erosion is in the Wanagama forest, especially in this study on kolonjono grasslands (Brachiaria mutica). The result of this study can be used as a base to avoid land degradation, while working together with the surrounding community needs to be maintained, which has recently become a trend in forest management in general to maintain the harmony of sustainable and sustainable forest management. However, the problem in measuring the erosion was faced when the rainfall happens rarely as a result of climate change. So, the development of erosion measurement tools is urgently required. The use of rainfall simulator was studied in order to find out that although during the dry season the erosion research can be carried out. The purpose of this study was to measure the erosion rate at the grass soil and after harvested soil, and to prove the use of rainfall simulator for measuring erosion. This study resulted that both the erosion and runoff have a positive correlation with the rainfall duration with the R square of 0.993 to 1. The erosion rate at the grass soil and at the post harvested soil were almost the same so there was no significant difference. However, the runoff at the grass soil was significantly different from the runoff at the post harvested soil.
Fagonia stabilized gold nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents
Authors: Mariam Rukhsana , Naz Gul , Ramzan Muhammad , Anjum Muhammad Naeem , Anjum Shazia , Abdullah Muhammad
Published: August 2021

In this study, gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were synthesized using an aqueous extract of Fagonia , as a stabilizing and reducing agent, applying the green approach. The phytochemicals present in Fagonia extract are responsible for the creation of GNPs. The reaction kinetics of Fagonia stabilized GNPs (FGNPs) was observed through the optical absorption spectra and the absorption maxima occurred at 547 nm. The face-centered cubic (FCC) nature of the GNPs was analyzed by the XRD pattern and average crystallite size (D) was measured about 10 nm. TEM images showed roughly spherical shapes of FGNPs. Evidence of successful formation of FGNPs was revealed by FTIR spectra of pure Fagonia and FGNPs. Fluorescence spectroscopic analysis of FGNPs exhibited a sharp red emission at about 700 nm. TGA technique showed a weight loss of about 19.3% in FGNPs confirming the presence of ligand onto the surface of GNPs. As-synthesized GNPs were investigated for their biomedical application i.e. antimicrobial activities against E. coli and Cocci. The eco-friendly prepared GNPs could play an important role in antimicrobial applications and their visible emission property may suggest the use of such FGNPs as potential biomarkers.
Gallium triggered crystallization of spinel glass-ceramic and enhancement in colorization and luminescence
Authors: Xu Xiaoyun , Wang Zhiwen , Chen Simin
Published: August 2021

Spinel glass–ceramic is an important class of composites with promising applications in transparent antiriot shields, tunable lasers and broadband optical amplifiers. Although the crystallization process of spinel has been well studied, the approach for tuning it and the optical response of the resultant glass–ceramic still need urgent attention. Here, we posit that the addition of Ga2O3 can significantly improve the crystallization tendency of the spinel phase and greatly change the optical response of the glass–ceramic. On one hand, the colourization of glass–ceramic can be tuned, and an unusual blue colour can be achieved. On the other hand, the luminescence can be notably enhanced, and the resultant spinel glass–ceramic exhibits intense green–yellow luminescence. The present findings about the Ga2O3–mediated structure modification and optical response tuning can provide an effective avenue for the functionalization of spinel glass–ceramic and may be general for various types of material candidates.
Accuracy of the independent atom approximation in digital tomosynthesis Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Primidis Thomas G , Soloviev Vadim Y , Welsch Carsten P
Published: August 2021

Monte Carlo (MC) codes serve as the gold standard simulation tool during design and optimisation of x-ray imaging systems. Such simulations often model Rayleigh scattering based on the Independent Atom Approximation Model (IAM). This model neglects the low range molecular interference (MI) effects of non-crystalline materials such as human tissues. Previous work has found discrepancies in the simulated images of planar x-ray images between IAM and MI models. However, insignificant differences were found for computed tomography (CT) reconstructions. In this work we present Geant4 MC simulations of a flat panel source digital tomosynthesis (DT) system for human extremities. Results show that with a 1:9 scatter to primary ratio (SPR) in the x-ray projections, the DT reconstructions are insensitive to the differences of the IAM and MI models. Therefore, MC codes that use the IAM model are sufficient for the study of DT systems. That is because DT algorithms have a larger effect on image quality than the few percent change in the noise due to a physical model and noise suppression methods make this change even less important. Dependency of this conclusion on SPR must be considered in other DT modalities where SPR might be larger.
Reduction, reorganization and stasis in the evolution of turtle shell elements
Authors: Cordero Gerardo A , Vlachos Evangelos
Published: August 2021

Novel phenotypic configurations can profoundly alter the evolutionary trajectories of species. Although innovation can precede lengthy periods of evolutionary stasis, the potential for species to diversify further can be realized via modular changes across distinct levels of hierarchical organization. To test this expectation, we undertook anatomical network analyses to model the organization and composition of the turtle’s shell. Our results suggest that stem turtles featured the greatest diversity in the number of skeletal (bones) and epidermal (scutes) shell elements. The shell subsequently underwent numerical simplification. Thus, the sum of potential connections (links) in shell networks has diminished in modern turtles. Some network system descriptors of complexity, integration and modularity covaried with the number of network components (nodes), which has remained evolutionarily stable since the Jurassic. We also demonstrated that shell reorganization might be feasible within modular subdivisions, particularly in modern turtles with simplified and less integrated network structures. We discuss how these findings align with previous studies on numerical simplification with enhanced skeletal specialization in the tetrapod skull. Altogether, our analyses expose the evolvability of the turtle’s shell and bolster the foundation for further macroevolutionary comparisons of ancient and modern species.
Assessing chromatin relocalization in 3D using the patient rule induction method
Authors: Segal Mark R
Published: August 2021

Three-dimensional (3D) genome architecture is critical for numerous cellular processes, including transcription, while certain conformation-driven structural alterations are frequently oncogenic. Inferring 3D chromatin configurations has been advanced by the emergence of chromatin conformation capture assays, notably Hi-C, and attendant 3D reconstruction algorithms. These have enhanced understanding of chromatin spatial organization and afforded numerous downstream biological insights. Until recently, comparisons of 3D reconstructions between conditions and/or cell types were limited to prescribed structural features. However, multiMDS, a pioneering approach developed by Rieber and Mahony (2019). that performs joint reconstruction and alignment, enables quantification of all locus-specific differences between paired Hi-C data sets. By subsequently mapping these differences to the linear (1D) genome the identification of relocalization regions is facilitated through the use of peak calling in conjunction with continuous wavelet transformation. Here, we seek to refine this approach by performing the search for significant relocalization regions in terms of the 3D structures themselves, thereby retaining the benefits of 3D reconstruction and avoiding limitations associated with the 1D perspective. The search for (extreme) relocalization regions is conducted using the patient rule induction method (PRIM). Considerations surrounding orienting structures with respect to compartmental and principal component axes are discussed, as are approaches to inference and reconstruction accuracy assessment. The illustration makes recourse to comparisons between four different cell types.
Old, New, Borrowed and Blue – Shifts In Modern Policing
Authors: Dahl Johanne Yttri , Fyfe Nicholas R , Gundhus Helene Oppen Ingebrigtsen , Larsson Paul , Skjevrak Pernille Erichsen , Runhovde Siv Rebekka , Vestby Annette
Published: August 2021

This article analyses ambiguity and complexity in proactive policing practices and identifies the paradox that despite the focus on increasing proactivity, police work remains strongly reactive. Drawing on a set of Norwegian case studies of policing in different domains, the article shows how under an overarching objective of ‘combating crime’, the distinctions between non-coercive (mainly proactive) forms of prevention or (mainly reactive) methods such as investigation or intelligence are seen as unimportant. This creates a demand for professionals working across different crime types, leading to a shift towards high policing in everyday life and tension between experts and generalists. Other, unintended consequences include a fragmentation of tasks and a more general and abstract way of policing. The result is pluralization and multiagency partnership strategies, where the police conduct high-policing tasks and external actors conduct low-policing tasks. These findings point to the emergence of new forms of hybrid of policing.
Network Analysis of Human Brain Connectivity Reveals Neural Fingerprints of a Compositionality Bias in Signaling Systems
Authors: Lumaca Massimo , Vuust Peter , Baggio Giosuè
Published: August 2021

Compositionality is a hallmark of human language and other symbolic systems: a finite set of meaningful elements can be systematically combined to convey an open-ended array of ideas. Compositionality is not uniformly distributed over expressions in a language or over individuals’ communicative behavior: at both levels, variation is observed. Here, we investigate the neural bases of interindividual variability by probing the relationship between intrinsic characteristics of brain networks and compositional behavior. We first collected functional resting-state and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging data from a large participant sample (N = 51). Subsequently, participants took part in two signaling games. They were instructed to learn and reproduce an auditory symbolic system of signals (tone sequences) associated with affective meanings (human faces expressing emotions). Signal-meaning mappings were artificial and had to be learned via repeated signaling interactions. We identified a temporoparietal network in which connection length was related to the degree of compositionality introduced in a signaling system by each player. Graph-theoretic analysis of resting-state functional connectivity revealed that, within that network, compositional behavior was associated with integration measures in 2 semantic hubs: the left posterior cingulate cortex and the left angular gyrus. Our findings link individual variability in compositional biases to variation in the anatomy of semantic networks and in the functional topology of their constituent units.
Improvements in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Testing Cascade in the United States: Data From Serial Cross-sectional Assessments
Authors: Clipman Steven J , Wesolowski Amy , Mehta Shruti H , Cobey Sarah , Cummings Derek A T , Solomon Sunil S
Published: August 2021

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) testing is critical for monitoring case counts, early detection and containment of infection, clinical management, and surveillance of variants. However, community-based data on the access, uptake, and barriers to testing have been lacking.

Methods

We conducted serial cross-sectional online surveys covering demographics, coronavirus disease 2019 symptoms, and experiences around SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing to characterize the SARS-CoV-2 testing cascade and associated barriers across 10 US states (California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin), from July 2020 to February 2021.

Results

In February 2021, across 10 US states, 895 respondents (11%) reported wanting a diagnostic test in the prior 2 weeks, 63% of whom were tested, with limited variability across states. Almost all (97%) who were tested received their results; 56% received their results within 2 days. In Maryland, Florida, and Illinois, where serial data were available at 4 time points, 56% were tested the same day they wanted or needed a test in February 2021, compared with 28% in July 2020, and 45% received results the same day, compared with 17% in July 2020. Wanting a test was significantly more common among younger, nonwhite respondents and participants with a history of symptoms or exposure. Logistical challenges, including not knowing where to go, were the most frequently cited barriers.

Conclusions

There were significant improvements in access and turnaround times across US states, yet barriers to testing remained consistent across states, underscoring the importance of a continued focus on testing, even amidst mass vaccination campaigns.
Southern States in International Development Cooperation: From Contestation to Norm Conception
Authors: Duarte Rubens de S , Milani Carlos R S
Published: August 2021

Why and how do Southern countries conceive norms in the field of international aid and cooperation in an attempt to craft a symbolic regime that challenges Northern-oriented development agendas? To answer this question, this article engages with the literature on the life cycle of norms and goes beyond the earlier concepts of cascade, localisation, subsidiarity, reluctance, rejection, and contestation. As it considers the international–domestic nexus as the main catalyst for norm conception, this paper contributes to the existing literature on norm circulation by providing a more nuanced and context-led analysis of Southern countries’ normative role. In building upon the dialectics between international and domestic politics, this paper refutes the simple norm-taker/norm-maker dyad wherein the former is regarded as the South’s only possible role. Written from a Southern perspective, this paper also explores a range of channels, mechanisms, and platforms that Southern actors mobilise to create and diffuse their development cooperation norms both regionally and globally.
Do boars compensate for hunting with higher reproductive hormones?
Authors: Davidson Achiad , Malkinson Dan , Schonblum Anat , Koren Lee , Shanas Uri
Published: August 2021

The predation-stress hypothesis has been proposed as a general mechanism to explain the negative effect of predation risk on reproduction, through a chronic activation of the stress response. However, in some cases, stress appears to augment the reproductive potential of mammals. Wild boar (Sus scrofa) populations are on a rise worldwide, despite the high hunting pressure that they are exposed to. This hunting pressure instigates, among other effects, earlier sexual maturity in juvenile females, leading to the shortening of wild boars’ generation time. The mechanism that underlies this earlier sexual maturity under high hunting pressure has not been examined to date. To explore the physiological effects that hunting has on the reproductive system and whether the stress response is involved, we examined steroid hormone levels in the hair of female wild boars in northern Israel, comparing populations exposed to high and low hunting pressure. Furthermore, we compared steroid levels in the hair of female wild boars that were roaming alone or as a part of a group. We found no hormonal signs of stress in the hunted boars. Cortisol levels were low in both the high and low hunting-pressure groups. Yet, progesterone levels were higher in females that were exposed to high hunting pressure. Females roaming in a group also had higher progesterone levels compared to females that were alone, with no distinguishable differences in cortisol levels. These elevations in reproductive hormones that were associated with hunting may lead to a higher reproductive potential in female wild boars. They further show that high hunting pressure does not necessarily lead to chronic stress that impairs the reproductive potential of female wild boars. This data suggests that a reproductive hormonal response may be one of the factors leading to the rapid wild boars population growth worldwide, despite the high hunting pressure.
Biomarkers of reproduction in endangered green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) nesting at Tortuguero, Costa Rica
Authors: Bruno Renato Saragoça , Restrepo Machado Jaime Alberto , Guzman Gilberto Rafael Borges , Loria Jorge Iván Ramos , Valverde Roldán Arturo
Published: August 2021

Understanding the timing of vitellogenesis is essential for identifying threats to the reproductive success of endangered oviparous vertebrate species, such as sea turtles. We measured concentrations of testosterone (T) and vitellogenin (VTG) in green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) nesting at Tortuguero, Costa Rica, as biomarkers of ovarian development. Testosterone concentration increased from the first to second month and VTG concentration increased at the third week of sampling. These results show that Tortuguero green sea turtles were still producing both biomarkers early into the nesting season. VTG concentration was negatively correlated with female weight, suggesting that larger females start nesting earlier at Tortuguero and that we may have sampled larger females further into their reproductive cycle.
Advancing urban ethnopharmacology: a modern concept of sustainability, conservation and cross-cultural adaptations of medicinal plant lore in the urban environment
Authors: Dutta Tusheema , Anand Uttpal , Saha Suchismita Chatterjee , Mane Abhijit Bhagwan , Prasanth Dorairaj Arvind , Kandimalla Ramesh , Proćków Jarosław , Dey Abhijit
Published: August 2021

The discipline ‘urban ethnopharmacology’ emerged as a collection of traditional knowledge, ancient civilizations, history and folklore being circulated since generations, usage of botanical products, palaeobotany and agronomy. Non-traditional botanical knowledge increases the availability of healthcare and other essential products to the underprivileged masses. Intercultural medicine essentially involves ‘practices in healthcare that bridge indigenous medicine and western medicine, where both are considered as complementary’. A unique aspect of urban ethnopharmacology is its pluricultural character. Plant medicine blossomed due to intercultural interactions and has its roots in major anthropological events of the past. Unani medicine was developed by Khalif Harun Al Rashid and Khalif Al Mansur by translating Greek and Sanskrit works. Similarly, Indo-Aryan migration led to the development of Vedic culture, which product is Ayurveda. Greek medicine reached its summit when it travelled to Egypt. In the past few decades, ethnobotanical field studies proliferated, especially in the developed countries to cope with the increasing demands of population expansion. At the same time, sacred groves continued to be an important method of conservation across several cultures even in the urban aspect. Lack of scientific research, validating the efficiency, messy applications, biopiracy and slower results are the main constrains to limit its acceptability. Access to resources and benefit sharing may be considered as a potential solution. Indigenous communities can copyright their traditional formulations and then can collaborate with companies, who have to provide the original inventors with a fair share of the profits since a significant portion of the health economy is generated by herbal medicine. Search string included the terms ‘Urban’ + ‘Ethnopharmacology’, which was searched in Google Scholar to retrieve the relevant literature. The present review aims to critically analyse the global concept of urban ethnopharmacology with the inherent plurality of the cross-cultural adaptations of medicinal plant use by urban people across the world.
Red, yellow, or green? Do consumers’ choices of food products depend on the label design?
Authors: Carlsson Fredrik , Kataria Mitesh , Lampi Elina , Nyberg Erik , Sterner Thomas
Published: August 2021

Using a stated preference survey, we investigate to what extent consumers are willing to make costlier food consumption choices to decrease damages to health, the environment, and animal well-being. In particular, we investigate how the graphic design of the labels affects choice behaviour by comparing traffic–light and greyscale labels and plain-text description with each other. We found that the red colour in traffic lights seems to strengthen respondents’ preferences for avoiding the worst level of a collective attribute such as climate impact or antibiotics use, while the green colour strengthened preferences for the more private attribute, namely healthiness. On average, the price premiums for a green label compared with a red label is 52 per cent for healthiness, 64 per cent for both animal welfare and antibiotics, and 20 per cent for climate impact.
HypoSVI: Hypocentre inversion with Stein variational inference and physics informed neural networks
Authors: Smith Jonthan D , Ross Zachary E , Azizzadenesheli Kamyar , Muir Jack B
Published: August 2021

We introduce a scheme for probabilistic hypocentre inversion with Stein variational inference. Our approach uses a differentiable forward model in the form of a physics informed neural network, which we train to solve the Eikonal equation. This allows for rapid approximation of the posterior by iteratively optimizing a collection of particles against a kernelized Stein discrepancy. We show that the method is well-equipped to handle highly multimodal posterior distributions, which are common in hypocentral inverse problems. A suite of experiments is performed to examine the influence of the various hyperparameters. Once trained, the method is valid for any seismic network geometry within the study area without the need to build traveltime tables. We show that the computational demands scale efficiently with the number of differential times, making it ideal for large-N sensing technologies like Distributed Acoustic Sensing. The techniques outlined in this manuscript have considerable implications beyond just ray tracing procedures, with the work flow applicable to other fields with computationally expensive inversion procedures such as full waveform inversion.
Identification and characterization of O-linked glycans in cervical mucus as biomarkers of sperm transport: A novel sheep model
Authors: Abril-Parreño Laura , Wilkinson Hayden , Krogenæs Anette , Morgan Jack , Gallagher Mary E , Reid Colm , Druart Xavier , Fair Sean , Saldova Radka
Published: August 2021

Cervical mucus plays an important role in female fertility, since it allows the entry of motile and morphological normal sperm while preventing the ascent of pathogens from the vagina. The function of cervical mucus is critically linked to its rheological properties that are in turn dictated by O-glycosylated proteins, called mucins. We aimed to characterize the O-glycan composition in the cervical mucus of six European ewe breeds with known differences in pregnancy rates following cervical/vaginal artificial insemination with frozen–thawed semen, which are due to reported differences in cervical sperm transport. These were Suffolk (low fertility) and Belclare (medium fertility) in Ireland, Ile de France and Romanov (both with medium fertility) in France, and Norwegian White Sheep (NWS) and Fur (both with high fertility) in Norway (n = 28–30 ewes/breed). We identified 124 O-glycans, from which 51 were the major glycans with core 2 and fucosylated glycans as the most common structures. The use of exogenous hormones for synchronization did not affect the O-glycan composition in both high-fertility ewe breeds, but it did in the other four ewe breeds. There was a higher abundance of the sulfated glycan (Galβ1–3[SO3-GlcNAcβ1–6]GalNAc), fucosylated glycan (GlcNAcβ1–3(Fucα1–2Galβ1–3)GalNAc) and core 4 glycan (GlcNAcβ1–3[GlcNAcβ1–6]GalNAc) in the low-fertility Suffolk breed compared with NWS (high fertility). In addition, core 4 glycans were negatively correlated with mucus viscosity. This novel study has identified O-glycans that are important for cervical sperm transport and could have applications across a range of species including human.
Intestinal immunity: to be, or not to be, induced? That is the question
Authors: Takahashi Daisuke , Kimura Shunsuke , Hase Koji
Published: August 2021

The intestinal immune system maintains intestinal homeostasis in collaboration with diverse immune cell subsets residing at the epithelial layer, lamina propria and gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). Bacterial components and their metabolites are essential for the establishment of the gut immune system. In addition, nutritional signals contribute to maintaining the mucosal immune response. Specialized epithelial microfold (M) cells in GALT facilitate immune surveillance on the mucosal surface by actively taking up external antigens to transport them into the lymphoid follicles. Because hyperplasia of M cells causes an excessive immune response in GALT, there is a self-regulatory mechanism to control the development of M cells appropriately. In this review, we will discuss the molecular mechanisms of mucosal immune regulation and their biological importance.
The Truthful Portrait: Can Posing Be a Tool for Authenticity in Portraiture?
Authors: Debaene Aurélie J
Published: August 2021

This article explores the compatibility of posing and authenticity in portraiture. Often understood as a source of inauthenticity, I propose that posing in fact functions as an artistic tool that can support a truthful portrayal. My argument first discusses authenticity in relation to portraiture through the lens of Bernard Williams’s idea of “truthfulness,” which relies on his notions of “accuracy” and “sincerity.” Second, I introduce a phenomenology of posing. I identify two aspects of posing that can be present in the portrait; these are the “posing sitter,” who holds the actual physical pose, but also point out the use of a “posing effect” in the image, which I call the “posed sitter.” Third, I address the worry of posing as a source of inauthenticity and demonstrate how this can be reframed in order to lay bare its capacity for enhancing truthfulness. The pose then need not be regarded with suspicion of artifice that clouds the authenticity of the sitter; instead, it can offer an approach to truthfully portray the sitter.
Use of dalbavancin in infective endocarditis: a case series
Authors: Guleri Achyut , More Ranjit , Sharma Rashmi , Wong Michelle , Abdelrahman Amr
Published: August 2021

Background

Infective endocarditis, typically caused by Gram-positive organisms such as viridans group streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus, is associated with high mortality and morbidity and requires aggressive, prolonged antimicrobial treatment and sometimes surgery. Dalbavancin, a lipoglycopeptide active against Gram-positive pathogens, has a long half-life, which allows IV treatment as one dose or two doses with a prolonged interval, offering personalized treatment for complex psychosocial situations or facilitating early discharge. In the absence of randomized controlled trials in infective endocarditis, current evidence derives from real-world case series involving off-licence use. The Austrian Society for Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine includes dalbavancin as an option for infective endocarditis.

Objectives

This retrospective case series reports use of dalbavancin in a small cohort of patients with infective endocarditis treated at Lancashire Cardiac Centre, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust, UK.

Results

The pharmacy database included 11 patients in whom dalbavancin was used to address either complex psychosocial circumstances or the need for early discharge. The endocarditis multidisciplinary team selected dalbavancin from available treatment options. Structures affected by infective endocarditis included aortic, mitral and tricuspid valves; aortic composite grafts; implantable cardioverter defibrillator leads; and prosthetic aortic valves. Eight patients underwent surgery; three were managed conservatively with antibiotics. Dalbavancin was curative in all but one patient, whose signs and symptoms of infection improved. No patients developed adverse reactions.

Conclusions

Dalbavancin is an alternative treatment option at hospital discharge when conventional antibiotics may not be suitable due to complex psychosocial issues or early discharge is required.
Simultaneous Bayesian estimation of genetic parameters for curves of weight, feed intake, and residual feed intake in beef cattle
Authors: Esfandyari Hadi , Jensen Just
Published: August 2021

Rates of gain and feed efficiency are important traits in most breeding programs for growing farm animals. The rate of gain (GAIN) is usually expressed over a certain age period and feed efficiency is often expressed as residual feed intake (RFI), defined as observed feed intake (FI) minus expected feed intake based on live weight (WGT) and GAIN. However, the basic traits recorded are always WGT and FI and other traits are derived from these basic records. The aim of this study was to develop a procedure for simultaneous analysis of the basic records and then derive linear traits related to feed efficiency without retorting to any approximation. A bivariate longitudinal random regression model was employed on 13,791 individual longitudinal records of WGT and FI from 2,827 bulls of six different beef breeds tested for their own performance in the period from 7 to 13 mo of age. Genetic and permanent environmental covariance functions for curves of WGT and FI were estimated using Gibbs sampling. Genetic and permanent covariance functions for curves of GAIN were estimated from the first derivative of the function for WGT and finally the covariance functions were extended to curves for RFI, based on the conditional distribution of FI given WGT and GAIN. Furthermore, the covariance functions were extended to include GAIN and RFI defined over different periods of the performance test. These periods included the whole test period as normally used when predicting breeding values for GAIN and RFI for beef bulls. Based on the presented method, breeding values and genetic parameters for derived traits such as GAIN and RFI defined longitudinally or integrated over (parts of) of the test period can be obtained from a joint analysis of the basic records. The resulting covariance functions for WGT, FI, GAIN, and RFI are usually singular but the method presented here does not suffer from the estimation problems associated with defining these traits individually before the genetic analysis. All the results are thus estimated simultaneously, and the set of parameters is consistent.
Effects of dietary rosemary extract supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and microbiota of weaning pigs
Authors: Yang Mei , Yin Yexin , Wang Fang , Bao Xuetai , Long Lina , Tan Bie , Yin Yulong , Chen Jiashun
Published: August 2021

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) extract (RE) has multiple pharmacological and biological activities, including the use as a food additive and medicine. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary RE supplementation on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and microbiota of weaning piglets. A total of 192 crossbred weaned piglets [Duroc × (Large White × Landrace)] (initial body weight = 6.65 ± 0.33 kg, weaned days = 23 ± 1 d) were group housed (six pigs per pen; n = 8 pens/treatment). Pigs were fed a corn–soybean meal-based control diet or the basal diet supplemented with 100, 200, or 400 mg/kg RE. Pigs were allowed ad libitum access to fed for 21 d. The growth performance and apparent total tract digestibility of nutrients, and intestinal morphology and antioxidant status were evaluated. The components of the microbial microflora were also determined in the cecal samples. Compared with the control, dietary supplementation with RE increased the final body weight, average daily gain, and average daily feed intake (linear, P = 0.038, 0.016, and 0.009, respectively), and decreased the diarrhea ratio in piglets (linear, P < 0.05). The digestibility of crude protein (linear, P = 0.034) and gross energy (linear, P = 0.046) increased with treatment with RE. Piglets fed RE showed longer villus height (linear, P = 0.037 and 0.028, respectively) and villus height/crypt depth (linear, P = 0.004 and 0.012; quadratic, P = 0.023 and 0.036, respectively) in the jejunum and ileum, in addition to a lesser crypt depth in the jejunum (linear, P = 0.019) and ileum (quadratic, P = 0.042). The addition of RE increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (linear, P = 0.035 and 0.008, respectively) and glutathione peroxidase activity (linear, P = 0.027 and 0.039, respectively) and decreased the content of malondialdehyde (linear, P = 0.041 and 0.013; quadratic, P = 0.023 and 0.005, respectively) in the serum and liver. Dietary RE supplementation, compared with the control, increased the number of Bifidobacterium (linear, P = 0.034) and Bacteroidetes (linear, P = 0.029), while decreased Escherichia coli (linear, P = 0.008; quadratic, P = 0.014) in the cecal contents. Thus, dietary RE supplementation can improve growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and the microbiota in weaned piglets, and 200 mg/kg may be considered the optimum dosage.
A review of OBN processing: challenges and solutions
Authors: Zhang Dongliang , Tsingas Constantinos , Ghamdi Ahmed A , Huang Mingzhong , Jeong Woodon , Sliz Krzysztof K , Aldeghaither Saud M , Zahrani Saeed A
Published: August 2021

In the last decade, a significant shift in the marine seismic acquisition business has been made where ocean bottom nodes gained a substantial market share from streamer cable configurations. Ocean bottom node acquisition (OBN) can acquire wide azimuth seismic data over geographical areas with challenging deep and shallow bathymetries and complex subsurface regimes. When the water bottom is rugose and has significant elevation differences, OBN data processing faces a number of challenges, such as denoising of the vertical geophone, accurate wavefield separation, redatuming the sparse receiver nodes from ocean bottom to sea level and multiple attenuation. In this work, we review a number of challenges using real OBN data illustrations. We demonstrate corresponding solutions using processing workflows comprising denoising the vertical geophones by using all four recorded nodal components, cross-ghosting the data or using direct wave to design calibration filters for up- and down-going wavefield separation, performing one-dimensional reversible redatuming for stacking QC and multiple prediction, and designing cascaded model and data-driven multiple elimination applications. The optimum combination of the mentioned technologies produced cleaner and high-resolution migration images mitigating the risk of false interpretations.