bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution, species composition and bioecology of autotrophic weeds in potato and vegetable crops
Authors: Nasirov B
Published: March 2023

Increasing the gross yield and quality of the potato and vegetable crops is of great importance in meeting the food needs of the population in the world. In many countries of the world, including China, weeding and herbicides are applied together with potato and vegetable planting, or during the growing season. This research intends to to determine the current state of the distribution and damage caused by the types of weeds and flower parasites in the fields of potato and vegetable crops in the conditions of irrigated typical and meadow gray soils of the Tashkent region. In this research, laboratory, field experiments in research works, phenological observations, biometric measurements were done using “Methods of conducting field experiments”, the number of weeds were studied according to A.M. Tulikov’s methodological manuals, and determination of grain suppression, statistical analysis of research results was done in accordance with A.B. Dospekhov. The results showed that among the biological groups, the group of spring weeds was dominant, accounted for 48% of the species composition. This group consisted of 14 rounds, whereas the overwintering biogroup consisted of 6 species (21%), followed by 4 species of rhizomatous weeds (14%), 3 species of taproots (11%), 1 species each of taproots and nodules (3%). According to the experiments, 45 % of the species recorded in beet fields were adapted to grow among mowed crops. This pattern was apparently related to more favorable heat, light, and nutrient regime conditions created in mowed crop fields for weed growth and development.
Study on the biology and ethology of M. Tempestiva
Authors: Vakhidova D S
Published: March 2023

Animal husbandry is one of the dynamically developing branches of agriculture in Uzbekistan, accounts for 46.3% of agricultural products produced in the country. During the experiment, the fauna, phenology and ecology of sim bovine-pasture flies in the conditions of irrigated and foothill zones of Uzbekistan were studied. At a wind speed of 1-5 m/s during the morning peak hours (12-14:00) at an air temperature of 25-26 °C and a relative humidity of 42-46%, the number of small barns on a 2-year-old black-motley bull was 160 specimens. It was reported that with an increase in air temperature (28-30°C) at 11-12:00 hours, a large number of individuals were found on the back and sides. In hot daytime hours (13-16:00) at an air temperature of 30-33 °C, a small barn from well-lit areas moved to the limbs.
Characterisation of bauxite cleaning waste in Tanjungpinang Indonesia
Authors: Ramdhani Eka Putra , Yulita Inelda , Edelwis Tri Widya , Permana D , Kadir L A , Wahab Wahab , Pardi Hilfi , Siregar NAN , Santoso Eko , Prasetyoko Didik
Published: March 2023

The processing of bauxite ore into aluminium produces a large amount of waste materials. Red mud as waste from the alumina industry is a problem that damages the hydrological function of the soil. Red mud can still be utilised according to its composition and characteristics. In this study, red mud originating from Tanjungpinang is characterised using several techniques (Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Adsorption desorption nitrogen. XRD characterisation results for all samples tested, namely bmd1, bsg1, bsg2, and bsg3, have relatively uniform phases: boehmite, Gibbsite, Nepheline, Calcite, Hematite, and Quartz. The SEM-EDX test obtained data on the composition of the highest Al content found in bsg3 with a weight of 7.2%. Adsorption desorption nitrogen test results obtained bsg3 has the highest surface area with 62,423 m2/g. With the characteristics of red mud from bauxite washing, this waste material can be utilised in various fields.
Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) as Effective Disinfectants with Natural Source: a New Inspiration
Authors: Willian Nancy
Published: March 2023

The antibacterial properties of silver nanoparticles have been well-proven. Various ways of modifying nanoparticles to get better activity have been reported. Metal crystals from micro to nano size produce excellent and promising properties in a wide range of applications. Various methods have been used in the production of nanoparticles, ranging from chemical to biological methods (green synthesis). Synthesis of metal nanoparticles with plant media brings advantages, one of which is not damaging the environment. The antibacterial ability of silver nanoparticles has been promised, so it is necessary to study its prospects as a disinfectant, especially in the use of plant-based hand sanitizers that are more skin-friendly. In this review, the potential of silver nanoparticles using the green synthesis method is described as a natural material-based disinfectant that is more environmentally friendly.
Comparison of characteristics between peptides in fish meat and fermented products
Authors: Viruly L , Prymasari D , Agustina T , Oktavia Y , Novalina S , Putri R M S , Ilhamdy A F , Apriandi A , Jumsurizal
Published: March 2023

In the pasca of the COVID-19 pandemic, many researchers have focused on finding drugs for the COVID-19. Peptide research is predicted to have a physiological mechanism of action and it does not cause side effects, therefore it is necessary to search for peptide sources. The aim of this study was to characterize peptides extracted from tamban fish (Sardinella fimbriata) and fermented products (Cincalok of Tanjungpinang). Peptide extract was obtained by maceration extraction using 95% PA (1:5) ethanol solvent, and then it filtered using MWCO 3 kDa and 10 kDa. The amino acid characteristics of the peptides was obtained using HPLC. Peptides of tamban fish had the pH of 7.6 and they are rich of amino acid histidine (890.18 mg/L), in addition to the amino acids glutamate, tyrosine, glycine, leucine, alanine, and aspartic acid. But the peptides of the fermented cincalok product had the pH of 6.4 and they are rich of amino acid leucine (1066.83 mg/L), in addition to the amino acids glutamate, valine, isoleucine, and alanine. Each of these peptides had the molecular weight of 10 kDa. The results of this study can be used as preliminary information to the pharmaceutical development of a new source of peptides.
Optimization of synthesizing bricks from red mud composite with coconut fiber and clay
Authors: Ramdhani EP , Silitonga FS , Fitriyah D , Hidayani R , Yusfaddillah A , Safitri D , Salamiati U
Published: March 2023

Red Mud is a bauxite solid waste which is dangerous for the environment because of its alkalinity (10-13). With a very high pH, it can interfere with the hydrological conditions of areas that are directly affected by Red mud. Efforts to utilize red mud to have use-value have been widely carried out. Red mud consists of Gibbsite, Hematite and Cristobalite. The main ingredients of red mud are Fe2O3, Al2O3, and SiO2 which can still be utilized by 44.66%, 28.87% and 20.21%. Red mud can be utilized as a basic material for bricks. Red mud needs to be composited with other materials because it does not have enough SiO2 composition to get good quality bricks. For this reason, in this study, Red mud was composed of clay and coconut fiber. Both of these materials are known to have high SiO2 content compared to Red mud. In this study, the optimal composition of red mud, clay, and coconut fiber ash compositions was 3: 3: 1.
Valorization of Ketapang Leaves (Terminalia Catappa) as Immoblizing Agent for Hydrocarbon-Degrading Bacteria Dried Storage
Authors: Ayatillah Nahdah , Fahrianti Anggun Safutri , Sandre  , Hatmanti Ariani , Syakti Agung Dhamar
Published: March 2023

One of the mitigations in dealing with the problem of waste oil is by using bioremediation techniques. Bioremediation techniques use biological agents that are safe for the environment and more cost-effective. The method commonly developed in bioremediation techniques is the immobilization of bacteria using plant fibers. The plant fiber used is ketapang leaf (Terminalia catappa) because it has physico-chemical properties that can be used in bioremediation. This study aims to analyze the ability of T. catappa as a living medium for bacteria degrading oil waste and analyze the effect of storage of live media for bacteria degrading oil waste. Five bacterial isolates used in this study were Bacillus aquimaris, B. megaterium, B. pumilus, H. trueperi, and R. bacterium. The live media for waste oil-degrading bacteria was made from T. catappa powder. Tests were carried out on storage days 0, 7, and 28. The results showed that T. catappa leaves could be used as a living medium for bacteria that degrade waste oil (bio carrier) in the amount of 19.9%-55.8%.
Antibacterial Activity of Sea Leaf Extracts (Scaevola Taccada) Against Staphylococcus Aureus and Escherichia Coli
Authors: Apriandi Azwin , Dari Tri Wulan , Fath Nurul Azizah El , Sri Novalina A , Marwita Sari Putri R.
Published: March 2023

Scaevola taccada is one of coastal plants founded at Riau Island.. This research aims to determine the antibacterial activity of the crude extracts leaves of Scaevola taccada. this research was conducted in several stages including, sample preparation, extraction of leaves with maseration method, photochemical analysis and antibacterial activity test using the agar disc diffusion technique. The phytochemical results, crude leaves extract contained flavonoid, tannins, steroids, and saponins. The results of the antibacterial activity test showed that there was an inhibition of antibacterial activity on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as indicated by the presence of a clear zone. Based on the results of the research, it was concluded that both ectract had antibacterial activity.
Analysis of marine garbage catches in mangrove roots of rhizopora sp in senggarang besar, tanjungpinang
Authors: Yuniar Sintana Tri , Virizki Anasha Nugrahaini , Sahilla Dilla , Jumari  , Fajri Muhammad , Praditya Mhd Habib , Febriansyah Pajri , Manalu Raquel , Kurniadi Zefri Khalik , Sanjaya Iqbal Maulana Yusuf , Nugraha Bramantio Adhityas , Hidayat Rommy , Kurniawan Dedi , Zamalludin  , David  , Haris  , Veronisa  , Irawan Henky
Published: March 2023

Rhizopora sp has a single root. The shape of the roots, which are like anchors, is what makes mangroves a wave absorber, sediment binder, and so on. One of the functions of mangrove roots is to prevent the release of garbage into the open sea. This is due to the shape of the roots that make garbage snagged (caught) on the sidelines of the roots. The purpose of this study was to analyze the capture of marine debris in the mangrove roots of Rhizopora sp in the Sengarang Besar ecosystem. This research was conducted in December 2021 in the mangrove forest of Senggarang Besar. The method used is the line transect method with 10 Rhizopora sp mangrove trees located on the coast. Then, data analysis on the density of waste caught in the mangrove roots of Rhizopora sp. The results showed that the inorganic waste found in the mangrove roots of Rhizopora sp were plastic waste, metal waste, glass waste, rubber waste, and cloth waste. Plastic waste is the highest waste catch in the mangrove ecosystem of the Great Senggarang beach. Then the data that has been taken is analyzed using Pearson correlation to prove whether there is a relationship between the circumference and the type of garbage caught. The results of the Pearson correlation between cloth and plastic with root circumference were -0.30 and -0.04 (no correlation between the two variables); Pearson glass correlation with root circumference was 0.45 (sufficient correlation); Pearson rubber correlation with circumference is 0.71 (strong correlation). It can be concluded that there are other factors such as geographical influences, ocean currents and others in the catch of garbage at mangrove roots.
The Effect of Fermented Shrimp Shell Meal in Fish Feed on The Growth of Asian Sea Bass (Lates calcalifer)
Authors: Putri Dwi Septiani , Yulianto Tri , Miranti Shavika , Putra Wiwin Kusuma Atmaja , Wulandari Rika , Bakkara Okto Rimandi
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to determine the effect of using fermented shrimp shell meal in feed on the growth of Asian sea bass. This study was designed with a completely randomized design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 3 replications thus the treatment obtained was A (feed without fermented shrimp shell meal); B (Feed using 15% fermented shrimp shell meal); C (Feed using 20% fermented shrimp shell meal) and D (Feed using 25% fermented shrimp shell meal). Parameters observed were daily growth rate and survival. The results showed that the percentage of substitution of fish meal with fermented shrimp shell meal was 25% in the feed ration resulting in the highest daily growth rate of 0.013 grams and 100% survival in rearing Asian sea bass (Lates calcalifer).
Agricultural innovation to increase climate change resilience in Tapin Regency
Authors: Mariani
Published: March 2023

Agriculture is one of top best-selling non-oil-and-gas products. However, environmental-related purposes for production, based on the Regulation of Forestry Ministry of Republic of Indonesia No P50/Menhut-II/2010 for the Right to Exploit, not meet the Ecosystem Reforestation Rights. Land degradation means loss of the productive capacity of the soils that has huge risk to food insecurity, loss of ecosystem biodiversity and climate change. In Tapin, one of the most productive agriculture in South Kalimantan Province, dramatic decline in the productivity of croplands can be one of the most important contributors of climate change. The action of Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) by adapting innovation has been a solution of reducing vulnerability and increase climate change resilience to combat rising demands for agriculture product and the agricultural production system. Smallholder farmers and rural community need to intensify the production of food for sustainable agriculture and food security, as mentioned in Sustainable Develompent Goals (SDGs) Goals 15.
Sustainable Livelihood of Fishers in Palangpang Beach, Sukabumi, Indonesia
Authors: Osmaleli  , Dwiyanto Leonita , Kusumastanto Tridoyo
Published: March 2023

Ciletuh is an areas in Sukabumi which was inaugurated as Global Geopark by UNESCO in 2017, and has many potential natural resources. The high number of visits at Palangpang Beach, Ciwaru Village, is an opportunity for fishermen in Ciwaru Village to participate in activities involving fishermen in the marine tourism sector but this is inversely proportional to the infrastructure development at the Ciletuh Geopark. So, it is important to analyze sustainable livelihood of fishermen before and after the development of the Ciletuh Geopark. The research methods used are descriptive analysis, and sustainable livelihood analysis. The results show that sustainable livelihood assets of fishermen who increasing were human capital, social capital, physical capital, and economic and financial capital, while natural capital experienced a decline in assets due to the accumulation of garbage on the shore and in the sea that interferes with fishing activities. Finally, The local government and the management of Auction Place of Fish of Ciwaru have made improvements to fishery support facilities, in the form of parking lots for fishing boats and more adequate fish landings for fishermen, but the government needs to manage the garbage on the beach area.
Electromagnetic interference shielding in lightweight carbon xerogels
Authors: Sarkar Biporjoy , Miquet-Westphal Floriane , Bobbara Sanyasi , George Ben , Beltrame Giovanni , Dousset David , Wu Ke , Cicoira Fabio
Published: March 2023

With the increasing use of high-frequency electronic and wireless devices, electromagnetic interference (EMI) has become a growing concern due to its potential impact on both electronic devices and human health. In this study, we demonstrated the performance of lightweight, electrically conducting 3D resorcinol-formaldehyde carbon xerogels, of 2.4 mm thickness, as an EMI shieldin the frequency range of 10–15 GHz (X-Ku band). The brittle carbon xerogels revealed complex porous structures with irregularly shaped pores that were randomly distributed. Electrochemical characterization revealed that the material behaved as an electrical double-layer capacitor. The carbon xerogels displayed reflection-dominated (∼ 84%) shielding behavior, with a total EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) value of ∼ 61 dB. The absorption process also contributed (∼ 16%) to the total SE. This behavior is attributed to the carbon xerogels' complex porous network, which effectively suppresses EM waves.
Density-potential inversion from Moreau–Yosida regularization
Authors: Penz Markus , Csirik Mihály A , Laestadius Andre
Published: March 2023

For a quantum-mechanical many-electron system, given a density, the Zhao–Morrison–Parr method allows to compute the effective potential that yields precisely that density. In this work, we demonstrate how this and similar inversion procedures mathematically relate to the Moreau–Yosida regularization of density functionals on Banach spaces. It is shown that these inversion procedures can in fact be understood as a limit process as the regularization parameter approaches zero. This sheds new insight on the role of Moreau–Yosida regularization in density-functional theory and allows to systematically improve density-potential inversion. Our results apply to the Kohn–Sham setting with fractional occupation that determines an effective one-body potential that in turn reproduces an interacting density.
Hyperbolicity and nonconservativity of a hydrodynamic model of swarming rigid bodies
Authors: Degond P. , Frouvelle A. , Merino-Aceituno S. , Trescases A.
Published: March 2023

We study a nonlinear system of first order partial differential equations describing the macroscopic behavior of an ensemble of interacting self-propelled rigid bodies. Such system may be relevant for the modelling of bird flocks, fish schools or fleets of drones. We show that the system is hyperbolic and can be approximated by a conservative system through relaxation. We also derive viscous corrections to the model from the hydrodynamic limit of a kinetic model. This analysis prepares the future development of numerical approximations of this system.
Detection of antigen Ag85B expression is useful for the diagnosis of tuberculosis, especially for those with an antituberculosis treatment history
Authors: Dong Yujie , Zhou Lijuan , Zhang Chen , Li Kun , Liu Zichen , Chen Xuejing , Che Nanying
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The present study used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to detect antigen Ag85B in tissue sections and aimed to evaluate its validity in histopathologic diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB).

Methods

In total, 204 patients with confirmed TB and 40 other diseases were included in the present study. Ziehl-Neelsen (Z-N) stains, IHC (anti-Ag85B), and quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction were used to detect acid-fast bacilli, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) antigen, and MTB DNA.

Results

Immunohistochemistry was significantly more sensitive than Z-N stains (93.1% vs 67.2%; P < .001). The sensitivity of Z-N stains significantly correlated with anti-TB treatment history. The sensitivity of Z-N stains was lower in rifampicin (RIF)-resistant TB compared with RIF-sensitive TB (52.8% vs 69.0%; P = .091) and those without treatment history (52.8% vs 84.0%; P = .015). However, IHC was not significantly affected by treatment history (P = .410). Moreover, expression patterns of Ag85B were dependent on treatment history and commonly showed weak scattered spots in RIF-susceptible TB. Conversely, strong brown rods were often found in those with RIF-resistant TB.

Conclusions

Immunohistochemistry is a simple, sensitive technique for the diagnosis of TB, especially for those patients with treatment history. The expression pattern of Ag85B is a potential marker for evaluating anti-TB treatment response.
Skatole-induced p38 and JNK activation coordinately upregulates, whereas AhR activation partially attenuates TNFα expression in intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Kurata Koichi , Ishii Katsunori , Koto Yoshihito , Naito Kazuma , Yuasa Kana , Shimizu Hidehisa
Published: March 2023

Increased tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) expression in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) plays a major role in the development and progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer (CRC). The present study aimed to clarify the relationship between TNFα and skatole, a tryptophan-derived gut microbiota metabolite. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) antagonist CH223191 promoted, whereas the p38 inhibitor SB203580 suppressed the increase in TNFα mRNA and protein expression induced by skatole in intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells. The c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor SP600125 repressed only the increased TNFα protein expression, whereas the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway inhibitor U0126 did not affect increased TNFα expression at any level. A neutralizing antibody against TNFα partially inhibited skatole-induced cell death. Overall, these results suggested that TNFα expression is increased by the concerted actions of skatole-activated p38 and JNK, and that TNFα exerts autocrine/paracrine actions on IECs despite partial suppression by activated AhR. Therefore, skatole might play an important role in the development and progression of IBD and CRC via increased TNFα expression.
Alteration in the number of neuronal and non-neuronal cells in mouse models of obesity
Authors: Andrade Mayara M , Fernandes Caroline , Forny-Germano Leticia , Gonçalves Rafaella A , Gomes Michelle , Castro-Fonseca Emily , Ramos-Lobo Angela M , Tovar-Moll Fernanda , Andrade-Moraes Carlos Humberto , Donato Jose , De Felice Fernanda G
Published: March 2023

Obesity is defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health and is a risk factor for developing other diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disorder. Obesity is also associated with structural and functional alterations in the brain, and this condition has been shown to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. However, while obesity has been associated with neurodegenerative processes, its impact on brain cell composition remains to be determined. In the current study, we used the isotropic fractionator method to determine the absolute composition of neuronal and non-neuronal cells in different brain regions of the genetic mouse models of obesity Lepob/ob and LepRNull/Null. Our results show that 10- to 12-month-old female Lepob/ob and LepRNull/Null mice have reduced neuronal number and density in the hippocampus compared to C57BL/6 wild-type mice. Furthermore, LepRNull/Null mice have increased density of non-neuronal cells, mainly glial cells, in the hippocampus, frontal cortex and hypothalamus compared to wild-type or Lepob/ob mice, indicating enhanced inflammatory responses in different brain regions of the LepRNull/Null model. Collectively, our findings suggest that obesity might cause changes in brain cell composition that are associated with neurodegenerative and inflammatory processes in different brain regions of female mice.
Infectious Complications of Lung Transplant for Coronavirus Disease 2019–Associated Lung Injury: A Single-Center Case-Control Cohort Study
Authors: Osborn Rebecca , Alamri Maha , Tomic Rade , Ison Michael G
Published: March 2023

Background

Lung transplantation is one of the only options for patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)–associated lung injury (CALI). Studies on patients who received a lung transplant for CALI have, to date, not looked at the infectious outcomes.

Methods

After institutional review board approval, a retrospective case-control cohort study, matched 1:1, collected data on patients who underwent lung transplantation for CALI (case) and for non–COVID-19 end-stage lung disease (control) between 1 June 2020 and 1 April 2022 at a large academic hospital in Chicago. We assessed infectious complications and other key outcomes pre-transplant and for 1 year post-transplant.

Results

Among 78 patients (39 CALI and 39 matched control lung transplant patients), those in the CALI cohort were less likely to be vaccinated pre-transplant and were more likely to have diabetes, to be obese, to not be ambulatory, and to require pre-transplant extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and mechanical ventilation. Patients transplanted for CALI had higher rates of infection pre-transplant (66.7% vs 15.4% of patients in the control) and in the first 30 days post-transplant (43.6% vs 20.5%). Numbers and types of infection were similar in both groups at other time points. One-year mortality was similar for CALI and control groups (12.8% vs 10.3%, respectively).

Conclusions

Patients who received a lung transplant for CALI are more deconditioned with prolonged hospital stays and experience more infectious complications immediately pre- and post-transplant. Infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms are important contributors to morbidity and mortality in this population. Antimicrobial stewardship is urgently needed.
Females adopt sexual catalepsy to facilitate mating
Authors: Liu Jihe , Liu Keke , Tang Yu , Wang Weihua , Xu Xiang , Liang Jianhui , Xiao Yonghong , Elgar Mark A
Published: March 2023

Theory predicts that males and females of dioecious species typically engage in an evolutionary sexual conflict over the frequency and choice of mating partner. Female sexual cannibalism, a particularly dramatic illustration of this conflict, is widespread in certain animal taxa including spiders. Nevertheless, females of some funnel weaving spiders that are generally aggressive to conspecifics enter a cataleptic state after male courtship, ensuring the males can mate without risk of attack. In this study, we demonstrated that the physical posture and duration, metabolites, and central neurotransmitters of females of Aterigena aculeata in sexual catalepsy closely resemble females in thanatosis but are distinct from those in anesthesia, indicating that the courted females feign death to eliminate the risk of potentially aggressive responses and thereby allow preferred males to mate. Unlike the taxonomically widespread thanatosis, which generally represents a deceptive visual signal that acts against the interest of the receivers, sexual catalepsy of females in the funnel weaving spiders may deliver a sexual-receptive signal to the courting males and thereby benefit both the signal senders and receivers. Therefore, sexual catalepsy in A. aculeata may not reflect a conflict but rather a confluence of interest between the sexes.
Pancreatic imaging in MEN1—comparison of conventional and somatostatin receptor positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging in real-life setting
Authors: Kostiainen Iiro , Majala Susanna , Schildt Jukka , Parviainen Helka , Kauhanen Saila , Seppänen Hanna , Miettinen Päivi J , Matikainen Niina , Ryhänen Eeva M , Schalin-Jäntti Camilla
Published: March 2023

Objective

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (panNETs) are the leading cause of death in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). The role of somatostatin receptor positron emission tomography/computed tomography (SSTR PET/CT) in MEN1 has not been established. The aim was to assess pancreatic imaging in MEN1 in a real-life setting.

Design

Fifty-eight patients with MEN1 [median age 40 (range 16-72) years] underwent SSTR PET/CT imaging; either as a screening tool regardless of disease stage (n = 47) or to further characterize known panNETs (n = 11). SSTR PET/CT and matched conventional imaging were blindly analyzed. We assessed the findings and the impact of SSTR PET/CT during a median follow-up of 47 months.

Results

SSTR PET/CT detected three times as many panNETs as conventional imaging (P < .001). SSTR PET/CT altered the management of 27 patients (47%). Seven patients (12%) were referred for surgery, and five (9%) received systemic treatment. In 15/25 (60%) patients with no previous panNET (n = 22) or in remission after surgery (n = 3), SSTR PET/CT identified a panNET (n = 14) or recurrence (n = 1). In eight patients, SSTR PET/CT revealed a panNET not immediately visible on conventional imaging. During a median follow-up of 47 months, three became visible on conventional imaging, but none required intervention. When SSTR PET/CT was negative, no panNETs were identified on conventional imaging during 38 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

SSTR PET/CT demonstrates high accuracy in the detection of panNETs and alters the clinical management in nearly half of the MEN1-patients. SSTR PET/CT enables timely diagnosis and staging of MEN1-related panNETs.
Characterization of dominant-negative growth hormone receptor variants reveals a potential therapeutic target for short stature
Authors: Andrews Afiya , Cottrell Emily , Maharaj Avinaash , Ladha Tasneem , Williams Jack , Schilbach Katharina , Kaisinger Lena R , Perry John R B , Metherell Louise A , McCormick Peter J , Storr Helen L
Published: March 2023

Objective

Growth hormone insensitivity (GHI) encompasses growth restriction, normal/elevated growth hormone (GH), and low insulin-like growth factor I (IGF1). “Nonclassical” GHI is poorly characterized and is rarely caused by heterozygous dominant-negative (DN) variants located in the intracellular or transmembrane domains of the GH receptor (GHR). We sought to determine the molecular mechanisms underpinning the growth restriction in 2 GHI cases.

Methods and Design

A custom-made genetic investigative pipeline was exploited to identify the genetic cause of growth restriction in patients with GHI. Nanoluc binary technology (NanoBiT), in vitro splicing assays, western blotting, and flow cytometry, characterized the novel GHR variants.

Results

Novel heterozygous GHR variants were identified in 2 unrelated patients with GHI. In vitro splicing assays indicated both variants activated the same alternative splice acceptor site resulting in aberrant splicing and exclusion of 26 base pairs of GHR exon 9. The GHR variants produced truncated receptors and impaired GH-induced GHR signaling. NanoBiT complementation and flow cytometry showed increased cell surface expression of variant GHR homo/heterodimers compared to wild-type (WT) homodimers and increased recombinant human GH binding to variant GHR homo/heterodimers and GH binding protein (GHBP) cleaved from the variant GHRs. The findings demonstrated increased variant GHR dimers and GHBP with resultant GH sequestration.

Conclusion

We identified and characterized 2 novel, naturally occurring truncated GHR gene variants. Intriguingly, these DN GHR variants act via the same cryptic splice acceptor site, highlighting impairing GH binding to excess GHBP as a potential therapeutic approach.
Variation and clinical consequences of wait-times for atrial fibrillation ablation: population level study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Qeska Denis , Singh Sheldon M , Qiu Feng , Manoragavan Ragavie , Cheung Christopher C , Ko Dennis T , Sud Maneesh , Terricabras Maria , Wijeysundera Harindra C
Published: March 2023

Aims

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac rhythm disorder. Emerging evidence supporting the efficacy of catheter ablation in managing AF has led to increased demand for this therapy, potentially outpacing the capacity to perform this procedure. Mismatch between demand and capacity for AF ablation results in wait-times which have not been comprehensively evaluated at a population level. Additionally, the consequences of such delays in AF ablation, namely the risk of hospitalization or adverse events, have not been studied.

Methods and results

This observational cohort study included adults referred for catheter ablation to treat AF in Ontario, Canada, between 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2020. Wait-time was defined from referral to the earliest of ablation, death, off-list, or the study endpoint of 31 March 2022. The outcomes of interest included a composite of death, hospitalization for AF/heart failure, and emergency department visit for AF/heart failure. Our study cohort included 6253 patients referred for de novo AF ablation. The median wait-time for patients who received and who did not receive ablation was 218 days (IQR: 112–363) and 520 days (IQR: 270–763), respectively. Wait-time increased consistently for patients referred between October 2017 and March 2020. Mortality was rare, but significant morbidity was observed, affecting 19.2% of patients on the waitlist for AF ablation. Paroxysmal AF was associated with a statistically significant greater risk for adverse outcomes on the waitlist (HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.18–1.93).

Conclusion

Wait-times for AF ablation are increasing and are associated with significant morbidity.
Cause-specific mortality in Spain during the pandemic: educational differences and its impact on life expectancy
Authors: Spijker Jeroen J A , Trias-Llimós Sergi
Published: March 2023

Background

Life expectancy in Spain fell by 1 year between 2018/19 and 2020. Yet, little is known on the impact on cause-of-death (COD) dynamics and educational inequalities therein.

Methods

We use individual-level death counts data by age, sex, education and multiple causes of death (MCOD) and the corresponding population exposures from national registers in Spain. Deaths were examined both as underlying cause of death (UCOD) and as contributory cause. We estimated life expectancies and lifespan inequalities by subpopulation groups and decomposed life expectancy differences between 2018/19 and 2020 by age groups and COD to assess the impact of COVID-19 (as MCOD) and major UCOD.

Results

COVID-19 contributed to a decline in male and female life expectancy in Spain between 2018/19 and 2020 (respectively, −1.7 and −1.4 years). Conversely, cancer, respiratory and circulatory system diseases and ill-defined causes as UCOD contributed to life expectancy increases. Life expectancy declines equalled −1.4 years among the low-educated in both sexes (population 30+), −1.0 and −0.7 years among middle-educated and −1.1 and −0.9 years among high-educated men and women. Without COVID-19, educational inequalities in life expectancy would have remained at similar levels, whereas lifespan variation would have been lower (−22% for women and −8% for men).

Conclusions

Life expectancy declines in Spain in 2020 were mainly driven by COVID-19, with possible substitution effects, especially for respiratory system diseases (fewer deaths compared to 2018/19 when coded as UCOD but more as contributing cause). We therefore advocate analysing MCOD when studying changing COD patterns during the pandemic.
Vanillic Acid Improves Stress Resistance and Substantially Extends Life Span in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Osorio-Paz Ixchel , Valle-Jiménez Xareni , Brunauer Regina , Alavez Silvestre
Published: March 2023

Aging is the root cause of several pathologies like neurological and cardiovascular diseases. Identifying compounds that improve health span and extend life span, called geroprotectors, could be crucial to preventing or at least delaying the onset of age-related diseases. In this regard, the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is emerging as an easy, efficient, low-cost model system to screen natural products and identify novel geroprotectors. Phenolic acids can be found in a wide range of natural products that are part of the human diet. Vanillic acid (VA) is a phenolic acid that has previously been attributed with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective features. To determine whether these beneficial health effects amount to an extension of health span and life span, in this work, we thoroughly explore the effect of VA on C. elegans stress resistance and life span. We found that VA increases thermotolerance (19.4%), reduces protein aggregation (between 30% and 40%), improves motility, and extends life span by almost 50%, an extent hardly ever achieved with a natural compound. The increased thermotolerance induced by VA is independent of the insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling pathway but requires heat shock factor-1 and is associated with increased heat shock protein-4 (HSP-4) and hsp-16.2 expression. These results provide new insight into understanding the therapeutical properties of VA and warrant further investigation of VA as a novel geroprotector.
The Multiple Punishment of Being an Older Adult Coping With Health Problems in Prison
Authors: Avieli Hila , Band-Winterstein Tova
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Studies have examined the vulnerabilities and the extent of health problems experienced by the older adult population in prison. However, reports about the subjective experiences of incarcerated older adults who are coping with health problems are scarce. This is alarming since older adults comprise the fastest-growing demographic in the prison systems of the United States and Europe. The aim of the current study was to bring forth the voices of older adults who are living with diseases in prison and to outline the landscape of struggling with everyday health care management.

Research Design and Methods

An interpretive phenomenological analysis was used to analyze the narratives of 23 individuals aged 60–88 who were coping with health problems in prison.

Results

The narratives revealed 3 major themes: (1) living day to day with illness in prison: fighting prison bureaucracy and public humiliation; (2) coping with complex medical issues: lack of professional medical care and cumulative problems, and (3) what does the future hold? Fear of living with illness out of prison.

Discussion and Implications

Intersectionality was used as a conceptual framework for understanding the participants’ narratives. The cumulative effect of belonging to systematically oppressed and marginalized groups is discussed. The research findings point to issues and experiences that are unique to older adults coping with health problems in prison and can serve as a framework for developing tailored interventions for these individuals.
Robust Bayesian moment tensor inversion with optimal transport misfits: layered medium approximations to the 3-D SEG-EAGE overthrust velocity model
Authors: Scarinci Andrea , Waheed Umair bin , Gu Chen , Ren Xiang , Dia Ben Mansour , Kaka Sanlinn , Fehler Michael , Marzouk Youssef
Published: March 2023

A velocity model is generally an imperfect representation of the subsurface, which cannot precisely account for the 3-D inhomogeneities of Earth structure. We present a Bayesian moment tensor inversion framework for applications where reliable, tomography-based, velocity model reconstructions are not available. In particular, synthetic data generated using a 3-D model (SEG-EAGE Overthrust) are inverted using a layered medium model. We use a likelihood function derived from an optimal transport distance—specifically, the transport-Lagrangian distance introduced by Thorpe et al.—and show that this formulation yields inferences that are robust to misspecification of the velocity model. We establish several quantitative metrics to evaluate the performance of the proposed Bayesian framework, comparing it to Bayesian inversion with a standard Gaussian likelihood. We also show that the non-double-couple component of the recovered mechanisms drastically diminishes when the impact of velocity model misspecification is mitigated.
Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on IBD Outcomes Among Vulnerable Patient Populations in a Large Metropolitan Center
Authors: Odufalu Florence-Damilola , Sewell Justin L , Rudrapatna Vivek , Somsouk Ma , Mahadevan Uma
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

With the onset of COVID-19, there were rapid changes in healthcare delivery as remote access became the norm. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of changes in healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), in both well-resourced and vulnerable populations.

METHODS

Using a mixed methods, observational study design, patients receiving IBD care at a university or a safety-net hospital were identified by the electronic health record. Patient demographics, IBD history, and disease activity were acquired from the electronic health record. IBD-related outcomes were compared from the onset of the pandemic in the United States until December 2020 (COVID-19 pandemic year 1) and compared with outcomes in the previous year. A subset of participants provided their perspective on how changes in healthcare delivery and financial stability impacted their IBD through a standardized questionnaire and semi-structured interview.

RESULTS

Data from a total of 1449 participants were captured, 1324 at the tertiary care university hospital and 125 at the safety-net hospital. During COVID-19, there was a decrease in healthcare utilization at both sites. Race/ethnicity and primary language were not associated with IBD-related hospitalizations or admissions. Patients that were employed and those with insurance had a higher number of IBD-related emergency department visits at both the university and safety-net hospitals (P = .03 and P = .01, respectively). Patients who did not speak English were more likely to report challenges using technology with telehealth and difficulty contacting IBD providers.

CONCLUSIONS

For IBD populations, during COVID-19, in both hospital settings, emergency department visits, hospitalizations, outpatient surgery, and clinic visits were reduced compared with the year prior. Patients with lower socioeconomic status and limited English proficiency reported facing more challenges with changes to healthcare delivery, healthcare access, and conveying changes in IBD activity. These results highlight the need for payors and providers to specifically attend to those populations most susceptible to these systemic and lasting changes in care delivery and promote greater equity in healthcare.
Supply chain decision-making and coordination for joint investment in cost and carbon emission reduction
Authors: Shi Ping , Chen Xi
Published: March 2023

In the era of low-carbon economy, it is an important measure for enterprises to respond to changes in the external environment by actively investing in various low-carbon technologies to reduce their carbon emissions. However, in real life, simply focusing on one kind of technology investment may not be able to perfectly achieve the established goals of enterprises, and more often, enterprises will adapt a strategy of multiple technology investment. Therefore, in view of this practical activity, this paper considers that manufacturers invest in two innovative activities: reducing production costs and improving emission reduction. The results of this study show that the increase in the carbon trading price will stimulate the motivation of enterprises to carry out low-carbon technologies innovation, which is conducive to the realization of the government’s carbon emission reduction target. Under centralized decision-making, the R&D investment of enterprises will not achieve immediate results, and the carbon emissions of enterprises under centralized decision-making are relatively high compared with those under decentralized decision-making. The improvement of consumers’ low-carbon awareness will enhance the driving force of enterprises’ low-carbon technologies innovation, although it will not reduce the total carbon emissions of enterprises.
Substrate degradation and postbiotic analysis of alternative fiber ingredients fermented using an in vitro canine fecal inoculum model
Authors: Holt Dalton A , Corsato Alvarenga Isabella , Donadelli Renan A , Aldrich Charles G
Published: March 2023

Many fiber ingredients are used by the pet food industry; however, little data are available regarding the fermentation characteristics of alternative fibers currently being used. The objectives of this study were to determine organic matter disappearance (OMD) and postbiotic production from various fruit and vegetable fiber sources using an in vitro dog fecal inoculum model. Apple pomace (AP), blueberry pomace (BP), cranberry pomace (CP), tomato pomace (TP), and pea fiber (PF) were used as experimental treatments. Inoculum was prepared using freshly voided feces under anaerobic conditions. Predigested fibers were inoculated and incubated for 1, 3, 6, and 12 h at 39 °C. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), branched-chain fatty acids (BCFA), total volatile fatty acids (VFA), and OMD were determined for each fiber source and time point in triplicate. After 12 h of incubation, OMD was similar (P > 0.05; average of 18.5%) among treatments. Proportionally, acetate was greater for BP and AP (P < 0.05; average of 80.1%) than for the other treatments (68.3% to 71.2%). Molar proportions of propionate was greatest (P < 0.05) for CP (26.8%) compared to the remaining treatments (13.6 to 20.7%). Butyrate was proportionally greater for PF (7.7%; P < 0.05) than for BP and CP (average of 4.8%) and was lowest for AP (3.8%); however, TP was not different from PF (P > 0.05; average of 7.25%). Total VFA concentration was highest for AP (P < 0.05) followed by TP (1.17 and 0.75 mmol*g−1 of substrate, respectively). Both BP and PF were similar (average of 0.48 mmol*g−1 of substrate) and lower than for TP, with CP having the lowest VFA concentration (0.21 mmol*g−1 of substrate) among all treatments. Additionally, when comparing molar concentrations, AP and TP (average of 0.0476 mmol*g−1 of substrate) had greater butyrate concentrations than did PF (0.0344 mmol*g−1 of substrate). The AP, BP, and TP treatments had both linear and quadratic relationships (Table 7; P < 0.05) for acetate, propionate, and butyrate concentrations across time. CP only demonstrated a linear relationship for propionate (P < 0.05), whereas acetate and butyrate had quadratic relationships with time. PF only demonstrated quadratic relationships between acetate, propionate, and butyrate concentrations and time (P < 0.05). Overall, the fiber substrates evaluated were marginally to moderately fermentable when incubated for up to 12 h with canine fecal inoculum.
The Imperative of Prosecuting Crimes of Aggression Committed against Ukraine
Authors: McDougall Carrie
Published: March 2023

As a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, we are sitting at a crossroads where one path further weakens the prohibition of the use of force and another helps restore its integrity. In this context, this article argues it is imperative that we take all available steps to reinforce the prohibition, and that holding President Putin to account for the crime of aggression holds the key in this regard. The article explains why it is necessary to establish an ad hoc international tribunal to prosecute crimes of aggression committed against Ukraine given the International Criminal Court lacks jurisdiction over any crime of aggression involving a State not party to the Rome Statute, the impossibility of amending the Statute in this instance, and the impediments that will stand in the way of a successful domestic prosecution of the crime of aggression, including immunities enjoyed by those most responsible. Finally, the article addresses the principal objections to the proposed tribunal including its cost (which is overstated and pales in comparison to the mounting cost of the ongoing conflict); its supposed redundancy given efforts to prosecute other serious international crimes committed in Ukraine (which undersells the challenge of holding leaders to account and discounts the value of separately prosecuting aggression); and the concern that the tribunal would represent selective justice (which overlooks the fact that a prosecution of the leaders of one of the world’s most powerful States would help end, rather than exacerbate, international criminal justice’s selectivity problem).