bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of coffee agroforestry systems: lessons learned from a social forestry program in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Sanudin  , Widiyanto A , Fauziyah E , Sundawati L
Published: March 2024

Indonesia has a long history of social forestry (SF). The essence of this scheme is to involve the community in managing state forests. The agroforestry system is the main choice, with trees already on forest land. The combination of trees and crops provides an alternative livelihood for the community. Coffee plants are one of the choices for undergrowth plants. This study aims to explain the management of coffee agroforestry in social forestry programs. The method used was direct observation in the field combined with a focus group discussion involving six Forest Village Community Institutions (LMDH) with 15 respondents for each LMDH. The results showed that farmers mainly chose coffee because it was shade-tolerant, allowing it to grow well under tree stands. Coffee management in SF with an agroforestry system differs from a monoculture cultivation system in terms of spacing, number of coffee plants per hectare, land preparation techniques, planting, maintenance, and productivity. The government can encourage the management of coffee agroforestry systems in state forests through social forestry schemes by providing training and facilities to increase the added value of coffee in advanced products, providing access to production facilities, capital, and markets, and institutionally strengthening farmer groups.
The Giving Response of Compost Leaves of Gamal, Kaliandra, and Lamtoro on the Growth of Arrowroot Plants (Maranta arundinacea)
Authors: Fadila A B , Wijayanto N
Published: March 2024

Agroforestry technology in forest area land management aims to increase land productivity sustainably. The aims of the study were to: (1) examine the effect of compost from leaf litter on three different tree species on the growth of arrowroot seedlings, (2) examine differences in arrowroot growth given various types of compost from leaf litter on three different tree species, and (3) to determine the best type of leaf litter compost for the growth of arrowroot seedlings. Observations were made on plant height, number of leaves, clumps, tuber productivity, and total dry weight in 20 observation units using a completely randomized design (CRD). The research data were then analyzed for variance. Then if there were significant differences, the DMRT (Duncan Multiple Range Test) follow-up test was continued. The results showed that the use of compost had a considerable effect on plant height and number of leaves. However, compost did not affect the number of clumps, total dry weight, and arrowroot tuber productivity. The results showed that gamal compost had the highest tuber productivity, namely 37.73 gr/plant, followed by lamtoro compost at 33.98 gr/plant, and calliandra compost at 23.05 gr/plant.
Application of Eucalyptus Agroforestry to reduce poverty in rural areas in Jember Regency, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Suciati L P , Agusta S
Published: March 2024

State forest management on the island of Java is monopolized by Perhutani Public Company as a state company with the community through a social forestry partnership. Various agroforestry patterns are applied to utilize forest land and gain benefits. The application of eucalyptus agroforestry in a village in Jember district, East Java is expected to reduce erosion and poverty problems in rural areas. The application of eucalyptus agroforestry which is a new pattern provides various perspectives for village communities. therefore, this study aims to (1) determine the application of various eucalyptus agroforestry patterns, (2) determine the income level of farmers in various eucalyptus agroforestry patterns and their contribution to household incomes and (3) analyse livelihood strategy of eucalyptus agroforestry farmer. The data analysis method using descriptive and quantitative analysis of eucalyptus agroforestry pattern, farmer’s income and contribution analysis to 36 forest farmers and also livelihood strategy. The research results show: (1) Application of the agroforestry system on social forestry partnership using a simple agroforestry system with eucalyptus agroforestry pattern of trees along border, random mixture, and alternate rows; (2) eucalyptus agroforestry income on land area <0.5ha is Rp. 7.955.013/year, land area 0.5-1ha Rp. 20,777,388/year, and land area >1 ha Rp. 23,853,189/year with the contribution of agroforestry to household income is moderate (between 41% until 61% of forest farmer household income). (3) most livelihood strategy of eucalyptus agroforestry farmer is most (81%) is multiple/diversification work most in agriculture.
Early Growth Performance and Genetic Variation of Araucaria cunninghamii in Bondowoso, East Java Province, Indonesia
Authors: Setiadi D , Pudjiono S , Nurtjahjaningsih I L G , Hendrati R L , Baskorowati L , Sulistiadi H B S , Susanto M , Sumardi  , Mashudi
Published: March 2024

Araucaria cunninghamii is a coniferous tree that has high commercial value for tropical and sub-tropical regions and is used as an alternative raw material for the pulp and paper industry. In order to get a good yield from this species, a progeny test was established in Bondowoso, East Java, and the variation in growth was investigated. This trial included 6 populations, 80 families, and 4 replications of 4-tree row plots spaced 4 m x 2 m. A range of percent survival of 98.81%–99.41%, with an average of 99.20%, was reported for adaptability, showing no significant variations between populations or between families. Significant differences existed between populations and between families in terms of growth in height, diameter, and volume. The best diameter was from the Manokwari population (4.93 cm), while the best height and volume characteristics were from the Jayapura population (5.32 m; 0.0051 m3). Height, diameter, and volume characters have moderate to high heritabilities. The genetic and phenotypic relationships between height and diameter, height and volume, and diameter and volume features were all high and positive. With the family selected at a 30% proportion, the predicted genetic gain for height, diameter, and volume were 3.14%, 5.79%, and 0.00073%, respectively.
The abundance of soil fauna in Gunung Halimun Salak National Park at altitude: 1100 – 1300 masl
Authors: Wasis B , Maulis I , Winata B
Published: March 2024

As a bioindicator of soil quality and controller of soil dynamic (fertility), soil fauna is influenced by various environmental factors like climate and edaphic elements. This research aimed to examine the abundance of soil fauna in a lower montane forest ecosystem at different elevations and analysed how the environment affects their abudance. The study used purposive sampling in Gunung Halimun Salak National Park, specifically at altitude of 1,100 masl; 1,200 masl; 1,300 masl; and an open area (1,230 masl) as a control. LSD test revealed a significant difference on soil fauna abundance between the 1,100 masl elevation and the control group. However, there was no significant difference of soil fauna abundance between altitude of 1,200 masl and 1,300 masl. The highest abundance of soil fauna was found at 1,100 masl, with 156 individual/m2. Conversely, the lowest abundance of soil fauna was recorded in the open area at 1,230 masl, with 3 individual/m2. The Pearson correlation analysis showed that soil fauna had positive correlation with light intensity and air temperature, and negative correlation with air humidity. Furthermore, Soil fauna abundance had also positive correlation with edaphic parameters (CEC, C-org., litter weight, soil respiration, porosity, and soil temperature, except soil pH and bulk density.
Ethnobotany of medicinal plant at Namorambe Village, Deli Serdang North Sumatra
Authors: Rambey R , Anggraini M , Pasaribu E , Simarmata S , Muliansyah W , Kembaren Y , Nelasufa F , Amelia R , Panjaitan G Y , Sutiawan J
Published: March 2024

The Ethnobotany of medicinal plants by the community of Namorambe Village, Pancur Batu District, Deli Serdang Regency has been going on for generations. Namorambe is a village dominated by the Karo ethnic group. This study aims to determine the type, percentage of species, method of processing and use of medicinal plants. The research method was carried out by means of in-depth interviews with people who use medicinal plants. Sampling was done by purposive sampling of 42 respondents. There are 50 types of medicinal plants consisting of 29 families which are often used by the people of Namorambe Village. The types of medicinal plants most widely used by the community are from the family Zingiberaceae (8 species), Solanaceae (4 species), Myrtacea (3 species), Euphorbiaceae (3 species). The families Arecaceae, Laminaceae, Malvaceae, Piperaceae, Poaceae, and Rutaceae each with 2 species, and the other families each with 1 species. The results of this research can become a data base for potential medicinal plants that can be developed in a sustainable manner.
Correlation of contamination/pollution from microplastics with physical properties of inceptisols
Authors: Rezki D , Maulana A , Prasetyo T B , Tanjung E T A P , Dwipa I , Herviyanti H
Published: March 2024

Microplastic contamination of soil is increasingly impacting soil performance in agriculture. This research studied the relationship between microplastic contamination with the physical properties of Inceptisols at different slopes in the horticultural production center of Banuhampu, Agam, West Sumatra. The determination of soil samples was carried out by purposive random sampling with a quantitative survey method. Sample testing using randomized completely block design (RCBD) with five treatments and three replications: 25-45% in forests and 0-8%, 8-15%, 15-25%, and 25-45% in fields at a depth of 0-20 cm. Characteristics of physical properties of Inceptisols contaminated with microplastics have a moisture content of 31.69%, a bulk density of 0.78 g cm−3, a total pore space of 70.67% (without considering the importance of soil organic matter), and a soil texture class of sandy loam (68.19% sand, 19.55% silt, and 12.26% clay). The value of microplastic concentration in Inceptisols was 438.33 particles kg−1. The slope does not significantly affect the physical properties of Inceptisols contaminated with microplastics. The effect of microplastic contamination has a significant relationship with the physical properties of Inceptisols, namely clay with a value of r = 0.650** and a linear equation: Microplastic = 15.474 (Clay) + 248.57; R2 = 0.4228.
Assesing Infiltration Rate and Soil Physical Properties at Different Vegetation Densities in the Jasinga Silviculture Teaching Industry (JSTI) Area
Authors: Rusdiana Omo , Rizki TB. Aditia , Winata Bayu
Published: March 2024

The Jasinga Silviculture Teaching Industry (JSTI) area is a research forest with ecosystem conditions that have yet to be widely known. Research on the local ecosystem is needed, especially regarding vegetation, soil, and the hydrological cycle. Vegetation densities in the JSTI area are uneven, which affects groundwater absorption (infiltration rate). This study aimed to identify the infiltration rate and soil physical properties at different vegetation densities. The research plot was determined through purposive sampling techniques based on the level of vegetation density. The research methods carried out were analysis of vegetation density and composition, identification of soil physical properties (such as organic matter content, bulk density, porosity, and moisture content), measuring field infiltration rates using a double-ring infiltrometer, and analyzed the Spearman correlation. The results showed that dense vegetation has the highest score of organic matter content (> 4%), the bulk density is moderate, the porous category dominates the porosity, and the water content and infiltration rate were greater than sparse vegetation plots. Therefore, it is recommended to carry out planting activities at sparse vegetation density in the JSTI area.
Estimation and economic valuation of stands carbon in Tubokarto Community Forest, Pracimantoro District, Wonogiri Regency
Authors: Nurhaliza A , Rahmadwiati R , Wicaksono R L
Published: March 2024

Climate change mitigation efforts can be carried out by reducing CO2 gas emissions through the use of the forestry sector, which is expected to increase carbon sequestration. Community forests are composed of stands that have the potential to store carbon stocks so that they can play a role in achieving FOLU (Forest and Other Land Use) Net Sink 2030. This study aims to estimate biomass, carbon storage, and carbon economic value in Tubokarto community forest stands, Pracimantoro, Wonogiri. The method in this study used systematic sampling with random start to measure the DBH and tree height with a sampling intensity of 2% and made 50 sample plots measuring 0.04 ha. The carbon storage value is calculated based on the conversion of 47% of biomass estimated by allometric equations. The results showed that the community forest area of Tubokarto has a total biomass potential of 79.69 tons/ha, total carbon storage of 37.45 tons/ha, and a carbon economic value of Rp 14,605,787.19/ha or if multiplied by the total area of the community forest is Rp 1,329,126,634. The potential and economic valuation of carbon storage in community forests provides an opportunity to achieve sustainable development goals and reduction in carbon emissions.
Success story of agroforestry system for RHL: case study in Register 38 of Gunung Balak-Protected Forest, Lampung Province
Authors: Widarti A , Nurlia A , Surati  , Desmiwati  , Nurjaman R , Bantara I
Published: March 2024

Undoubtedly, the agroforestry system is the best land use strategy. Still, if it is linked to the success of land rehabilitation, it needs to be re-examined, especially in cases of rapid deforestation. The agroforestry in rehabilitation activities will contribute to the FOLU carbon net sink as one of the climate crisis mitigation programs to support government goals. This research was conducted at Register 38 of Gunung Balak using a qualitative approach through case studies. In-depth interviews were conducted with key informants to obtain data and information. The long struggle for restoring the protected forest area registers 38 of Gunung Balak through various policies ranging from coercion to persuasion, but facing various obstacles has made success very difficult. BPDAS Way Sekampung Way Seputih, in collaboration with the Forestry Service, has recently made breakthroughs in rehabilitating land. In recent years, new ideas on productive and sustainable agro-forestry patterns, with local communities as key stakeholders, are bringing economic, social, and environmental benefits to local communities. This success is expected to help pioneer forest restoration elsewhere.
Design of arboretum and ecotourism complex on Kahatex green open space in Jatiroke Village
Authors: Zuhdy A , Tjhen W
Published: March 2024

Jatinangor district, located in Sumedang regency, is experiencing forest degradation due to rapid development spurred by its designation as a transport hub between Bandung, Garut, and Sumedang. In order to facilitate more environmentally sustainable developments in Jatinangor, approaches involving local communities in land rehabilitation is essential. One such proposal is the development of 8.18 ha of land in Jatiroke Village. In collaboration with Jatiroke locals and Geulis Mountain Communications Forum (GMCF) and PT. Kahatex, the land is planned to be transformed into a green open space for ecotourism complex based on the DEWA (Desa Edukasi Wisata Agro or Agro-tourism Educational Village) concept ensuring sustained benefits for the environment and the local populace. The complex is planned to have intensive and non-intensive zones. The intensive zone facilitates the visitors and supporting utilities while the non-intensive zone facilitates vegetation cultivation. The area’s planned main conservation facility is the Arboretum of Textile Dyeing Trees which hosts 20 tree species, 2 bush species, and 4 herb species traditionally used as dyes and are native to Western Java. This forest restoration project, involving collaboration with villagers and a corporation, is slated to exemplify the importance of environmental sustainability through ecotourism and education for all involved.
Developing business model with community groups for fire prevention and peatland restoration: a case study of Siak Regency
Authors: Juniyanti L , Purnomo H , Puspitaloka D , Andrianto A , Kusumadewi S D , Okarda B , Zulkardi  , Dermawan A
Published: March 2024

Forest and land fires are one of the main environmental challenges in Riau, that majority of its land covered by peatland. Therefore, the main challenge is to introduce fire-free alternatives to clearing agricultural land, while recognizing that local people lack the resources, knowledge, and technology on potential alternatives to zero-burning agriculture. A community-based business model for fire prevention and peatland restoration is urgently needed by making the community the main actor capable of generating value. This study aims to develop the alternative livelihood to support peatland restoration through Sustainable Business Model for the Community (SBMC) by applying Participatory Action Research (PAR). We conducted surveys, focus group discussions (FGDs), and field interviews as well as implemented Canvas Business Model (CBM) to identify the business component. Our finding showed that community groups were able to develop an agrosilvofishery business model that not only implement sustainable practices for land preparation without fire but also determined varieties of commodities that are ecologically and economically suitable for agroforestry techniques on peatlands. Hence, CBM is a suitable tool that helps in developing an integrated sustainable business model for community and can be applied in participative setting. CBM also ensured equity by identifying and agreeing on a cost structure and benefit sharing.
Spatial Classification of Forest and Land Fire Risk using Decision Tree C5.0 Algorithm
Authors: Taihuttu H Y , Sitanggang I S
Published: March 2024

Forest and land fires in indonesia occur almost every year, one of the districts that often experience forest and land fires is Ogan Komering Ilir District, South Sumatra Province. One indicator of forest and land fires is hotspots. This study aims to create a classification model for the forest and land fire risk in Ogan Komering Ilir District using four attributes, namely hotspot density, distance to rivers, distance to settlements, and distance to roads. The decision tree C5.0 algorithm is used to develop a classification model. The decision tree C5.0 produces a model that can be used to classify new data based on the rules formed by the tree. The results of modeling using C5.0 with 80% training data and 20% test data show that the performance of the model can correctly classify around 86.49% of the total sample in the data. This shows that the model has a relatively high level of accuracy in classifying. The modeling decision tree shows that forest and land fires are most affected by distance to settlements
Predicting forest fire danger using fuel characteristics in Berbak Sembilang National Park
Authors: Mora A M , Saharjo B H , Prasetyo L B , Saad A
Published: March 2024

Analyzing the fuel characteristics of a forest is essential when creating fire danger rating system (FDRS) and understanding how forest fires behave. In this study, the researchers predicted the intensity of forest fires by examining the amount of fuel present Berbak and Sembilang Natinal Park between November 2020 and December 2021. The fuel load measurement was carried out on surface fuel in the burned peatland area by modifying the line-intersect method (triangular plot - Van Wanger 1982) and the method developed during the Kalimantan Forest Climate Project (KFCP). We assessed the possibility of forest fires occurring, based on the fuel conditions. Variations were found in the fuel quantity and composition on the forest’s surface layer across different regions. Consequently, the intensity and type of forest fires changed accordingly. The Berbak Sembilang National Park area proved more intense surface fires. These results underscore the importance of understanding regional fuel characteristics and analyzing the predicted intensity and type of forest fires to take timely preventive measures against early fire occurrences.
The effect of parica seed water immersion time on the success of parica seed initiation (Schizolobium amazonicum Huber ex Ducke)
Authors: Afifah R , Wulandari A S , Tambunan I R
Published: March 2024

Parica culture has the potential to overcome problems in parica seed germination. One factor that influences the successful initiation of parica culture is the process of sterilization and pre-treatment in the form of breaking seed dormancy. This paper aims to analyze the effect of the immersion time of parica seeds on the germination rate of parica seeds. The explants used were parica seeds with a size of ± 2 cm. Seeds are given pre-treatment, the seeds are immersed in hot water at around 70°C for 10 minutes, the immersion time in hot water is 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours according to treatment. The variables observed were the first time the parica seeds germinated, the percentage of germinated seeds, the percentage of contamination (fungi, bacteria), and the percentage of browning. The results showed that the immersion time for pre-treatment affected the success of parica seed initiation, especially seed germination. The 3-hour immersion treatment used resulted in the highest germination of parica seeds (55%) and significantly differed from the germination rates in other immersion times. Based on the high germination rate and low level of contamination, this becomes prospectively to provide optimal in vitro parica germination.
Theoretical review based on the technologies developed in solar desalination.
Authors: Jaimes-Quintero K T , Ascanio-Villabona J G , Tarazona-Romero B E , Rincon-Quintero A D , Duran-Sarmiento M A
Published: March 2024

Increasing global demand for water and energy has given rise to renewable energies that offer an environmentally friendly alternative. Solar desalination systems have become a very attractive topic, due to the fact that areas lacking fresh water have a wealth of solar energy, allowing to present a convenient, promising and viable solution, also obtaining drinking water for consumption in remote areas from water with high salinity, where it is considered to be a process free of CO2 emissions when powered by solar radiation, being sustainable and environmentally friendly. The main objective of this study is to provide an extensive review of the different solar desalination systems, evaluating the indicators, factors and technologies involved in the process, through scientific sources such as: articles, academic publications, international congresses, indexed journals, and others.
Preparation and characterisation of graphitic biochar materials derived from rose oil industry waste via different pyrolysis durations and ball milling for advanced composites
Authors: Alluqmani Saleh M , Albaqawi Hissah Saedoon , Hakami Musaed A , Alabdallah Nadiyah M , Almarri Hana M , AL-Zahrani Asla A , Alshahrie Ahmed
Published: March 2024

The valorisation of waste from rose-based industrial products produces value-added substances and paves the way for advanced composites. The rose waste generated from the essential oil industry of the Taif rose (Rosa damascena trigintipetala Dieck) is significant, and its management or disposal is a source of concern. In this study, it was valorised to produce a value-added nanomaterial. The synthesis of biochar nanoparticles via high-energy ball milling has gained tremendous research interest in recent times because of its low cost and eco-friendliness. Ball milling is a solvent-free technology with strong potential for waste volatilisation and eco-sustainability through the production of engineered biochar nanoparticles. Different biochar samples were produced and characterised to harness the synergistic combination of biochar production and ball milling. They were prepared at a constant pyrolysis temperature of 300 °C by varying the pyrolysis times for 2 h, 5 h, and 10 h. The characterisation results showed that pyrolysis confirms a high content of carbon, minerals, graphitic structure, novel morphology and chemical characteristics attached to the biochar surface controlled by different pyrolysis durations. These properties were further enhanced by ball milling for 10 h. The results showed that ball milling enhanced the porosity, surface area, surface functional groups, visible light absorption, crystallinity, and carbon content, and these were accompanied by a reduction in the particle size and mineral impurities. The engineered biochar can be an important tool, with promising potential in novel composites for water purification and energy harvesting.
Ability to Forecast standardized precipitation index in Vietnamese Mekong Delta for dry season months based on sea surface temperature
Authors: Viet Luong Van
Published: March 2024

Drought has major impacts on agriculture, society, and ecosystems, so early prediction of drought plays an important role in mitigating its impacts. This study investigates the relationship between the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) in the Mekong Delta and global sea surface temperature (SST) in order to find potential variables for improving SPI forecast quality. The method used in determining potential predictors is based on the analysis of multiple correlation coefficients. Based on these potential predictors, SPI is predicted by stepwise regression along with the application of Leave-one-out cross-validation technique. The data used in this study is the rainfall of 15 stations in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta and the global SST from 1977 to 2020. Research results show that there is a pair of variables that have the best relationship with SPI in the study area, they are SST on Niño 3.4 region and SST in the region with latitude from 13 °N to 23 °N and longitude from 116 °E to 126 °E. When the forecast term is from 1 to 2 months, using this pair of variables gives better forecast quality than using only the predictors from the Niño indices.
Delirium is more common and associated with worse outcomes in Parkinson’s disease compared to older adult controls: results of two prospective longitudinal cohort studies
Authors: Gerakios Florence , Yarnall Alison J , Bate Gemma , Wright Laura , Davis Daniel , Stephan Blossom C M , Robinson Louise , Brayne Carol , Stebbins Glenn , Taylor John-Paul , Burn David J , Allan Louise M , Richardson Sarah J , Lawson Rachael A
Published: March 2024

Background

Inpatient prevalence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) delirium varies widely across the literature. Delirium in general older populations is associated with adverse outcomes, such as increased mortality, dementia, and institutionalisation. However, to date there are no comprehensive prospective studies in PD delirium. This study aimed to determine delirium prevalence in hospitalised PD participants and the association with adverse outcomes, compared to a control group of older adults without PD.

Methods

Participants were hospitalised inpatients from the ‘Defining Delirium and its Impact in Parkinson’s Disease’ and the ‘Delirium and Cognitive Impact in Dementia’ studies comprising 121 PD participants and 199 older adult controls. Delirium was diagnosed prospectively using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th Edition criteria. Outcomes were determined by medical note reviews and/or home visits 12 months post hospital discharge.

Results

Delirium was identified in 66.9% of PD participants compared to 38.7% of controls (p < 0.001). In PD participants only, delirium was associated with a significantly higher risk of mortality (HR = 3.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.3–8.6), p = 0.014) and institutionalisation (OR = 10.7 (95% CI = 2.1–54.6), p = 0.004) 12 months post-discharge, compared to older adult controls. However, delirium was associated with an increased risk of developing dementia 12 months post-discharge in both PD participants (OR = 6.1 (95% CI = 1.3–29.5), p = 0.024) and in controls (OR = 13.4 (95% CI = 2.5–72.6), p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Delirium is common in hospitalised PD patients, affecting two thirds of patients, and is associated with increased mortality, institutionalisation, and dementia. Further research is essential to understand how to accurately identify, prevent and manage delirium in people with PD who are in hospital.
Characteristics of older unpaid carers in England: a study of social patterning from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Davies Laurie E , Spiers Gemma F , Sinclair David R , Kingston Andrew , Hanratty Barbara
Published: March 2024

Background

A growing number of older people provide unpaid care, but contemporary research evidence on this group is limited.

Aim

This study aims to describe the characteristics of older people who provide unpaid care and how these vary by socioeconomic position.

Methods

Using recent information from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA wave 9, 2019), we analysed cross-sectional data on 1,282 unpaid carers aged ≥50. Data on sociodemographics, health, social wellbeing, care intensity and caregiver–recipient relationships were extracted. Total net non-pension wealth quintiles were used as a relative measure of socioeconomic position. Differences between the poorest and richest wealth quintiles were examined through logistic regression.

Findings

Most older carers in ELSA were female and looking after another older person. Poor mental and physical health and social isolation were common, and socially patterned. Compared with carers in the middle wealth group, the poorest group were more likely to be living with the person they cared for (odds ratio (OR) 1.56 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03–2.36]) and more likely to experience loneliness (OR 2.29 [95% CI 1.42–3.69]), dependency (i.e. the need for help with activities of daily living) (OR 1.62 [95% CI 1.05–2.51]), chronic pain (OR 1.81 [95% CI 1.23–2.67]), a higher number of diseases (OR 1.75 [95% CI 1.15–2.65]) and fair/poor self-rated health (OR 2.59 [95% CI 1.79–3.76]). The poorest carers were also less likely to have a high quality of life (OR 0.51 [95% CI 0.33–0.80]) or be in work (OR 0.33 [95% CI 0.19–0.59]).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that financially disadvantaged unpaid carers (and their households) may have the greatest needs for intervention and support. Focussing resources on this group has potential to address social inequalities.
A semi-automated spectral approach to analyzing cyclical growth patterns using fish scales
Authors: Chaput Julien A , Chaput Gérald
Published: March 2024

We introduce a new semi-automated approach to analyzing growth patterns recorded on fish scales. After manually specifying the center of the scale, the algorithm radially unwraps the scale patterns along a series of transects from the center to the edge of the scale. A sliding window Fourier transform is used to produce a spectrogram for each sampled transect of the scale image. The maximum frequency over all sampled transects of the average spectrogram yields a well-discriminated peak frequency trace that can then serve as a growth template for that fish. The spectrogram patterns of individual fish scales can be adjusted to a common period accounting for differences in date of return or size of fish at return without biasing the growth profile of the scale. We apply the method to 147 Atlantic salmon scale images sampled from 3 years and contrast the information derived with this automated approach to what is obtained using classical human operator measurements. The spectrogram analysis quantifies growth patterns using the entire scale image rather than just a single transect and provides the possibility of more robustly analyzing individual scale growth patterns. This semi-automated approach that removes essentially all the human operator interventions provides an opportunity to process large datasets of fish scale images and combined with advanced analyses such as deep learning methods could lead to a greater understanding of salmon marine migration patterns and responses to variations in ecosystem conditions.
Asymptotic uncertainty of false discovery proportion
Authors: Mei Meng , Yu Tao , Jiang Yuan
Published: March 2024

Multiple testing has been a prominent topic in statistical research. Despite extensive work in this area, controlling false discoveries remains a challenging task, especially when the test statistics exhibit dependence. Various methods have been proposed to estimate the false discovery proportion (FDP) under arbitrary dependencies among the test statistics. One key approach is to transform arbitrary dependence into weak dependence and subsequently establish the strong consistency of FDP and false discovery rate under weak dependence. As a result, FDPs converge to the same asymptotic limit within the framework of weak dependence. However, we have observed that the asymptotic variance of FDP can be significantly influenced by the dependence structure of the test statistics, even when they exhibit only weak dependence. Quantifying this variability is of great practical importance, as it serves as an indicator of the quality of FDP estimation from the data. To the best of our knowledge, there is limited research on this aspect in the literature. In this paper, we aim to fill in this gap by quantifying the variation of FDP, assuming that the test statistics exhibit weak dependence and follow normal distributions. We begin by deriving the asymptotic expansion of the FDP and subsequently investigate how the asymptotic variance of the FDP is influenced by different dependence structures. Based on the insights gained from this study, we recommend that in multiple testing procedures utilizing FDP, reporting both the mean and variance estimates of FDP can provide a more comprehensive assessment of the study’s outcomes.
Fitting the Cox proportional hazards model to big data
Authors: Wang Jianqiao , Zeng Donglin , Lin Dan-Yu
Published: March 2024

The semiparametric Cox proportional hazards model, together with the partial likelihood principle, has been widely used to study the effects of potentially time-dependent covariates on a possibly censored event time. We propose a computationally efficient method for fitting the Cox model to big data involving millions of study subjects. Specifically, we perform maximum partial likelihood estimation on a small subset of the whole data and improve the initial estimator by incorporating the remaining data through one-step estimation with estimated efficient score functions. We show that the final estimator has the same asymptotic distribution as the conventional maximum partial likelihood estimator using the whole dataset but requires only a small fraction of computation time. We demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed method through extensive simulation studies and an application to the UK Biobank data.
O78: Risk of recurrence after surgical resection for adenocarcinoma arising from intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia (IPMN) with patterns of distribution and treatment
Authors: Lucocq James ,   Adeno-IPMN Collaborative
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Recurrence patterns and treatment of recurrence post resection of invasive IPMN are poorly explored. This international multicentre cohort study aims to identify recurrence patterns and treatment of first and second recurrence in a large cohort of patients after pancreatic resection for invasive IPMN.

Method

Patients undergoing pancreatic resection for invasive IPMN between January 2010 to December 2020 at 18 pancreatic centres were identified. Survival analysis was performed by the Kaplan Meier log rank test and multivariable logistic regression by Cox-Proportional Hazards modelling. Endpoints were recurrence (time-to, location, and pattern of recurrence) and survival (overall survival and adjusted for treatment provided).

Results

Four hundred and fifty-nine patients were included (median, 70years; IQR, 64-76; male, 54 percent) with a median follow-up of 26.3 months (IQR, 13.0-48.1 months). Recurrence occurred in 209 patients (45.5 percent; median time to recurrence, 32.8 months, early recurrence [within 1year], 20.2 percent). Eighty-three (18.1 percent) patients experienced a local regional recurrence and 164 (35.7 percent) patients experienced distant recurrence. Adjuvant chemotherapy was not associated with reduction in recurrence (HR 1.09;p=0.669) One hundred and twenty patients with recurrence received further treatment. The median survival with and without additional treatment was 27.0 and 14.6 months (p<0.001), with no significant difference between treatment modalities. There was no significant difference in survival between location of recurrence (p=0.401).

Conclusion

Recurrence after pancreatic resection for invasive IPMN is frequent with a quarter of patients recurring within 12 months. Treatment of recurrence is associated with improved overall survival and should be considered.
A case of periocular pyoderma gangrenosum successfully managed with the aid of hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Authors: Pearce Julian , Al-Wahab Yasir , Rao Archana , Natkunarajah Janakan
Published: March 2024

Pyoderma gangrenosum is an uncommon, noninfective, ulcerative disorder that most commonly affects the skin. We present a case of severe, unilateral periocular PG that was managed, in part, with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. We review the existing literature associated with this rare presentation and hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a treatment modality.
Metastatic basal cell carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation: complete response to cemiplimab
Authors: Marti-Marti Ignasi , Puig Susana , Albero-González Raquel , Masferrer Emili , Iglesias Pablo , Pérez-Anker Javiera , Serra-García Laura , Tarroch Xavier , Curcó Neus , Toll Agustí
Published: March 2024

We report a patient with a metastatic basal cell carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation who responded well to cemiplimab but not to previous therapies. The different histological variants could determine treatment response.
A fast algorithm for diffusion source localization in large-scale complex networks
Authors: Pan Chunyu , Wang Jie , Yan Di , Zhang Changsheng , Zhang Xizhe
Published: March 2024

The identification of the origin of diffusion processes in complex networks is a subject of significant interest across numerous interdisciplinary fields. One approach to solving this issue involves the placement of a few observer nodes within the network and the estimation of the unknown source through the utilization of information gathered by these observer nodes. However, this approach presents certain drawbacks, particularly with regard to computational complexity. To address this limitation, this study introduces an innovative Hill-Climbing algorithm designed to efficiently identify diffusion sources within large-scale complex networks. Our approach, the Local Search Hill Climbing (LSHC) method, transforms the source localization problem into an optimization task, utilizing strategically deployed observer nodes. Experiments conducted on both random and scale-free network models demonstrate that our method significantly reduces computational time while maintaining high accuracy in pinpointing the diffusion source. This approach offers a substantial improvement over traditional methods and holds considerable promise for practical applications in network science.
Anarchist Domesticities: From DIY Culture to DIY Politics in Consent Zines
Authors: Hines Frankie
Published: March 2024

Contemporary radical and anarchist movements have made the home a central site of political contestation in ways that mirror a return to domestic spaces in recent critical thought. This essay argues that an “anarchist domesticity,” which is marked by an awareness of violence’s omnipresence, finds its clearest expression in anarcha-feminist zines about responses to sexual assault and interpersonal violence. The essay reads these “consent zines” first as texts that reconfigure zines’ do-it-yourself (DIY) ethos as a DIY politics and thereby seek to intervene directly in political struggles; and second as texts marked by encounters with traumatic experiences, which provides an alternative explanation for their fragmentary form. As articulations of radical domesticities, consent zines are, I argue, literary texts that speak to vital contemporary political issues.
Safety and Effectiveness of Janus Kinase Inhibitors in the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Following Liver Transplantation
Authors: Con Danny , Hilley Patrick , Chin Simone , Corte Crispin , Hafeez Bilal , Testro Adam , De Cruz Peter , Choy Matthew , Srinivasan Ashish
Published: March 2024

Background

The management of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] patients with concurrent liver transplantation is challenging, and data regarding the safety and efficacy of Janus kinase [JAK] inhibitors with anti-rejection medications are required. We report the experience of all liver transplant recipients receiving tofacitinib and/or upadacitinib for IBD across three states in Australia.

Methods

All liver transplant recipients from the Australian states of Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania, who required tofacitinib or upadacitinib for the treatment of IBD, were identified using prospectively maintained liver transplant databases. Patients were followed up until medication cessation or last follow-up. Clinical safety and efficacy data were collected.

Results

Eight patients [median age 30 years] were included, seven of whom received first-line JAK inhibition with tofacitinib. All patients had failed one or more biologic therapies prior to commencing JAK inhibition, including six patients who had failed two or more agents. JAK inhibition was continued for a median of 17 months, with 143 patient-months of combined follow-up. The anti-rejection medication tacrolimus was prescribed in all patients. Overall, seven [88%] patients achieved clinical remission, including all three patients who were switched from tofacitinib to upadacitinib. One patient required colectomy after 1 month of treatment. There were no other cases of serious infection, venous thromboembolism, or major adverse cardiovascular events during follow-up.

Conclusions

As the largest case series to date, these data indicate that combining JAK inhibition with transplant anti-rejection medication may be a safe and clinically effective method of treating IBD in patients with prior biologic failure.
Unusual presentation of benzodiazepine withdrawal with Takotsubo syndrome: a case report
Authors: Durães Campos Isabel , Moreira Helena , Portal Francisco , Paiva José Artur
Published: March 2024

Background

Thousands of people suffer from anxiety, depression, and insomnia every day, with benzodiazepines being one of the strategies used to treat these conditions. Withdrawal from its long-term use can lead to potentially life-threatening complications, including Takotsubo syndrome. The authors highlight an atypical case of Takotsubo syndrome secondary to benzodiazepine withdrawal, a rare life-threatening complication of acute substance withdrawal.

Case summary

A 58-year-old female presented to the emergency department with altered mental status and acute pulmonary oedema after discontinuing her prescribed benzodiazepines 3 days prior to presentation. Electrocardiogram (ECG) demonstrated anterior ST-segment elevation, with Q-wave and T-wave inversion with prolonged QT interval. Troponin I concentration and B-type natriuretic peptide were elevated to 5407 ng/L (normal ≤ 16 ng/L) and to 1627.0 pg/L (normal ≤ 100 pg/mL), respectively. Echocardiogram showed ballooning of the left ventricle (LV) apex with dyskinesia of the mid and apical segments, with LV function of 15%. Coronary angiography was normal, but left ventriculography showed severe LV systolic dysfunction with akinesis of the mid and apical LV segments and hyperdynamic basal segments. A presumptive diagnosis of benzodiazepine withdrawal–induced Takotsubo syndrome was made, and patients’ symptoms, ECG findings, and LV dysfunction resolved after benzodiazepine administration. Six months post discharge, the patient remained asymptomatic with a normal biventricular function, and a beta-blocker was successfully introduced as part of a lifelong plan.

Discussion

A diagnosis of benzodiazepine withdrawal–induced Takotsubo syndrome is an underrecognized and challenging diagnosis, due to its atypical clinical presentation. High degree of clinical suspicion for this syndrome is crucial, since favourable prognosis depends on prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Thoracic endovascular aortic repair for acute aortic dissection complicated by mesenteric malperfusion: an evaluation by computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Kimura Naoyuki , Imada Shuta , Hori Daijiro , Nakamura Masanori
Published: March 2024

Computational fluid dynamics was performed to simulate haemodynamics of type B aortic dissection complicated by mesenteric malperfusion caused by dynamic obstruction in a 70-year-old man. Streamline analysis showed disappearance of antegrade flow in the false lumen of the descending aorta and attenuation of intermittent flap-induced disruption of visceral vessel perfusion after entry coverage. Quantitative analysis showed endovascular repair increased perfusion volume of the coeliac artery and superior mesenteric artery by 55.6% and 77.4%, respectively. Entry closure with thoracic endovascular prosthesis improved mesenteric malperfusion by attenuating the intermittent flap-induced perfusion disruption.
Are We Becoming More Transparent? Survey Reporting Trends in Top Journals of Social Sciences
Authors: Stefkovics Ádám , Eichhorst Angela , Skinnion Dominic , Harrison Chase H
Published: March 2024

Transparency is essential for objectively evaluating or replicating any study’s findings. Although several reporting standards and guidelines exist for survey research, these standards are not adopted or enforced by most academic journals, and thus, transparency in survey research has been relatively low. This study documents and compares trends in transparency in survey research. We reviewed 899 articles that used 1,237 original surveys and were published in top journals in the fields of political science, sociology, and public opinion research between 2011 and 2021. The results show small changes in reporting different survey characteristics during the observed period. Nevertheless, we found that the majority of the articles did not provide responses or other rates, and a strong decrease was observed in transparency regarding response rates. Our results underscore the importance of promoting reporting standards and enforcing rules more rigorously.
A new agenda for antitrust: human rights violations as anti-competitive conduct
Authors: Kastrup Gustavo H
Published: March 2024

This study aims to establish a connection between human rights violations and unlawful conduct as defined by antitrust laws. To this end, it proposes a systematic teleological interpretation of the Brazilian legal system regarding human rights and competition laws to demonstrate that the Administrative Council for Economic Defence (CADE) has the authority to address human rights violations when enforcing antitrust provisions.