bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring The Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Potential of Litsea elliptica Leaf Extract
Authors: Mala M S , Larasati A G , Putri A S , Kuspradini H
Published: December 2023

Litsea is the largest genus in the Lauraceae family that is widely distributed in Kalimantan and contains natural antioxidants that have an essential role in the health of the human body. This study aims to identify the secondary metabolites of Litsea elliptica leaf extract and determine the antioxidant activity of different-size leaf extracts from L. elliptica. This research was conducted with qualitative phytochemical analysis and an antioxidant test, which was carried out using the DPPH method (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) at concentrations of 100, 50, 25, 12.5, and 6.25 ppm. The positive control used in this study wa vitamin C (ascorbic acid). The result of qualitative phytochemical analysis of all different-size leaf extracts showed that the extract contained alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and carotenoids. The highest antioxidant activity was found in the largest-sized (17.9 cm) leaf extract of L. elliptica, with a percentage of 57.4%. Meanwhile, the lowest antioxidant activity (19.5%) was found in the smallest-sized (7.1 cm) leaf extract. The results show that L. elliptica leaf extract could be a source of natural antioxidants.
Characteristics of Wood Fossils From Bengkinang Village Kutai Kartanegara Regency
Authors: Husien N , Aryanto A , Erwin  , Budi AS
Published: December 2023

Fossil wood is petrified wood in which all the organic material has been replaced by minerals (silica and a type of quartz), while preserving the structure of the wood. The purpose of this study was to determine the macroscopic characteristics of wood fossils in general, including their specific gravity, hardness, color, and anatomical features. This research encompassed a survey of fossil discovery locations, the creation of macroscopic wood fossil samples, observation of their macroscopic characteristics, and the measurement of wood hardness as well as the calculation of wood fossil density. The results revealed that the characteristics of the surface cross-section of the fossil samples were dominated by light brown, dark brown, and whitish gray colors. The macro characteristics of the samples exhibited a typical hardwood plant cell structure, characterized by vessels (pores). Unlike previously discovered wood fossils in this area, the wood fossil has axial intercellular canals. The recorded hardness value on the Mohs scale was 5, and the density was measured at 2.7.
The potential of bio-DME from oil palm empty fruit bunch in the Kalimantan region
Authors: Heryadi Rudy , Nur Syukri M , Putu Hikariantara I , Suseno Doni , Viendyasari Mila
Published: December 2023

Biomass from oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) has the potential to be developed into bio-DME that can replace fossil fuels such as diesel fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). The OPEFB has the potential to be developed into biofuel, especially because Indonesia is the world’s number one palm oil producer. The biggest OPEFB potential in Indonesia comes from the Kalimantan and Sumatra islands. This study aims to determine the potential of OPEFB to be converted into bio-DME on the island of Kalimantan, one of the largest palm oil-producing islands. The potential of OPEFB in Kalimantan is obtained by calculating biomass potential in a specific area or location; after the OPEFB potential is known, the bio-DME potential is also known. The potential of bio-DME that can be produced for the Kalimantan region is 1.21 million tons. The total demand for LPG in Kalimantan is 0.55 million tons per year. With a bio-DME potential of 1.21 million tons per year, it far exceeds the annual DME demand in Kalimantan. The total demand for diesel is 0.99 million tons per year for the Kalimantan region, and this need can be met by utilizing bio-DME as a substitute for diesel.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization of pioneer mangrove species in Mahakam Delta, East Kalimantan
Authors: Kusuma Fitria Dewi , Zakaria Sadam , Saputra Rahmat Adi
Published: December 2023

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are symbiotic, with more than 80% of plant species in terrestrial and mangrove ecosystems. This study aimed to determine the level of AMF colonization on Avicennia lanata and its correlation with soil chemical properties. Sampling was conducted in Sepatin Village, located in Mahakam Delta. There are four sampling locations, three were mangrove rehabilitation areas (A, B, and C), and one was a mangrove natural forest (MNF). Root samples were taken from four A. lanata seedlings purposively selected at each location. The roots were stained with 0.05% trypan blue, and the mycorrhizal structures of the roots were observed using a compound microscope. The results showed that the percentage of AMF colonization with A. lanata in MNF was higher (97%) than in other locations. Internal hyphae were the dominant structure found in the root of A. lanata in all locations, with a percentage of 76.61%. AMF root colonization negatively correlated with N-total, C-organic, and available P. In contrast, Ca, Mg, K, Na, and CEC positively correlated with AMF root colonization. The colonization of AMF in the root of A. lanata may promote the early growth of seedlings, and the application of AMF can support rehabilitating mangrove degraded.
Genetic variation of gelam (Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. cumingiana) in southern Kalimantan peat swamp population based on isozyme marker
Authors: Hapsari M T , Indrioko S , Faridah E , Widiyatno  , Naiem M , Herdyantara A B , Wahno I
Published: December 2023

Gelam (Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. cumingiana) is highly utilized timber by local people for house construction, poles, firewood, and other uses. Over-exploitation without sufficient regeneration leads to population reduction and a decrease in genetic variation. Information about the genetic variation of gelam is needed to conserve or improve the species. The study’s objectives were to identify the polymorphism of the enzyme system and the genetic variation of gelam in southern Kalimantan. Seeds were collected from 7 populations in southern Kalimantan. Seedlings were used and assessed by an isozyme marker. Five enzyme marker screening was conducted to determine the genetic variation, only the EST and DIA enzymes showed polymorphic and consistent patterns, POD and SHD showed polymorphic, inconsistent patterns, while GOT did not show the pattern. Genetic variation of gelam in the southern Kalimantan population was quite high (He = 0.4115, Ho = 0.2996, HT = 0.4215), it was mostly distributed within the population (97.6%) Inbreeding (FIS=0.21) or non-random mating occurred and led to a reduction in heterozygosity of the population.
Evaluation of plant characteristics of early harvesting hybrid chili lines
Authors: Waluyo N , Handayani T , Saadah I R , Ahmadi N R , Jaenudin U , Kirana R
Published: December 2023

Chili pepper is a popular horticultural commodity grown across the tropics, including Indonesia. The availability of chili varieties, particularly hybrids, may extend options for growers as well as consumers, depending on their personal preferences and needs. In 2022, research was conducted in the Lembang highlands agroecosystem, West Java, Indonesia, with the aim to evaluate plant characteristics including plant morphology and production of F1 chili lines. Five genotypes were employed in a complete randomized block design with four replications, including two F1 lines (1 x 5 and 5 x3) and three commercial F1 hybrid varieties (Carla Agrihorti, Hot Beauty, and Inata Agrihorti). The 1 x 5 line had a short plant posture, characterized by the short stem length, internodes, and plant height. This line also had the earliest flowering (44.25 dap) as well as harvesting (96 dap). This 1 x 5 line‘s advantage was complimented by a high yield of 16.7 tons Ha-1. The F1 1 x 5 line is expected to be efficient in the use of water, fertilizer, and pesticides due to its short plants and early harvest but high yield, allowing it to contribute to sustainable agriculture and have a beneficial impact on the environment.
Seed priming of stored seeds on seed germination, vegetative performance, flowering, and proline content in chili under water stress condition
Authors: Hardiyanto  , Devy N. F. , Yulianti Farida , Agisimanto Dita
Published: December 2023

Chili seeds mostly have been stored for a long period; therefore, the seed quality may be affected. Prior to planting, reinvigoration by priming treatments becomes an important treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how priming affected seed germination, vegetative performance, flowering, and proline content in chili cv. "Inata Agrihorti" under water stress treatment. The research was carried out in the Physiology Laboratory and Shade House in Batu East Java, Indonesia from December 2022 to March 2023, A factorial Randomized Block Design with three replications was set up in this study that consisted of two factors. First factor was stored seeds (2 and 5 years) duration of chili cv. Inata Agrihorti, and the second factor was priming treatments (Phenol Ethyl Glycol 6000, Gibberellic acids, Phenol Ethyl Glycol 6000 + Gibberellic acids, and distilled water as a control). The reinvigoration of stored seeds by priming treatments significantly improved germination percentage, germination time, root length, and proline content of early seedlings’ stages either under water stress or distilled water treatment as a control. The interaction of priming treatment and stored seeds was also recorded in improving the vegetative performance, flower number, and proline content of chili plants derived from reinvigorated seeds under water stress or normal watering treatment. Under water stress and/or normal conditions, primed seeds of 2-year-old stored seeds produced larger values of these variables than primed seeds of 5-year-old stored seeds. To improve yield, seed invigoration of stored seeds of chili cv Inata Agrihort through - 1.5 MPa Phenol Ethyl Glycol 6000 treatment was recommended.
Resistance of 10 Genotypes of Grapevines to Downy Mildew Disease (Plasmopara viticola Berk. et Curt.) on Batu High Land
Authors: Dwiastuti M E , Widyaningsih S. , Baswarsiati
Published: December 2023

Downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola Berk. et Curt.) is a major disease of grapevines (Vitis spp.) in Indonesia, especially during the rainy season. The use of downy mildew-resistant grape varieties is an effective solution to increase yields, but it is not always easy because grapes are plants that come from subtropical regions that are adaptive to growing in the lowlands of Indonesia. This study was aimed to test the resistance of 10 grape genotypes and species to downy mildew. Field trials in the Batu highlands of East Java used the natural inoculation method against 10 genotypes of productive grapevines with 1 resistant and 1 susceptible control genotypes using a randomized block design with 3 replications. The results showed that the P. viticola fungus found at the study site had the best performance on all resistance characters such as latency, number of spore spots, number of non-spore spots, resistance score, and intensity of disease attack on jestro AG5, Jestro AG45, Jestro AG86. Jestro AG5 is the most resistant genotype based on disease severity index. Vitis labrusca was the most disease resistant species, Vitis vinifera was the most sensitive, and Vitis interspecific crosses had moderate resistance. The resistant genotypes Jestro AG 45 (V. interspecific cross) and Jestro AG 86 (V.vinifera) need to be investigated further for their resistance mechanisms and their potential as parents in breeding programs.
A decade drought monitoring through enhanced and standardized vegetation index in isolated karst environment: Nusa Penida Island, Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Harbowo D G , Muliawati T
Published: December 2023

Nusa Penida is one of the regions in Indonesia that vunarablely experiences extreme drought. The worst drought occurred in December 2019, coinciding with the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak. At that time, drought caused major crises in many local primary economic aspects, such as clean-water crises and local crop failure. The situation worsened after the global pandemic lockdown was imposed. Many tourism-related hospitalities (i.e., hotels, resorts, and restaurants) also have crashed. Isolated karst islands such as Nusa Penida Island pose significant challenges for water and agricultural land management. Geologically, this area consists of hilly carbonate rock terrain, a lack of proper aquifers, low precipitation, and tend to had high concentrations of dissolved Ca and Mg in its water. These conditions make many areas less preferable for settlements and traditional agriculture. In this study, we assessed the area using geospatial data for drought monitoring. We analyzed weekly-22 years of data (18/02/2000-18/02/2022 or 507 weeks data) to understand the period pattern of seasonal droughts in Nusa Penida over the past decade. This study used compiled satellite raster-images data to compute the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) to express the Standardized Vegetation Index (SVI), which is sensitive to vegetation change during drought. The results showed that the longest droughts in Nusa Penida occurred from December 2000 to October 2001 (20 weeks) and Feb 2002 to Jan 2023 (21 weeks). The worst droughts occurred in December 2019 (SVI: -1.903 to -1.236), 2006 (SVI: -1.872 to -1.374), and 2002 (SVI: up to -0.136). There are patterns in which droughts in Nusa Penida tend to occur towards the end of the year, including at the end of 2022. Additionally, we detected some evergreen areas in Nusa Penida that require further investigation. These areas potentially act as natural permanent aquifers even during droughts. Furthermore, this study provides more insights for other comprehensive research, especially to enhance mitigation policies for near-future drought periods in Nusa Penida.
Adapting Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘curious’ poetry: approaches to musical narrativization in my recent composition ‘The Land of Nod’
Authors: Kaner Matthew
Published: December 2023

In this article, I present and critically examine the ways in which I conceived my recent musical composition, ‘The Land of Nod’ (from At Night for clarinet quintet), as an adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s poem of the same name, with close reference to Marie-Laure Ryan’s theoretical frameworks for the analysis of transmedia narratology and ‘storyworlds’, and Byron Almén’s A Theory of Musical Narrative. As a relatively rare example of scholarship that intersects the fields of adaptation, music theory, and practice (as) research, I situate this work within its wider disciplinary context, and consider the possible benefits that such interdisciplinarity and methodological eclecticism can offer, especially for creative practitioners in music.
The role of multimorbidity and socio-economic characteristics as potential risk factors for Long Covid: evidence from the multilevel analysis of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe’s corona surveys (2020–2021)
Authors: Wilk Piotr , Moran Valerie , Alperin Maria N Pi , Bohn Torsten , Fagherazzi Guy , Zeegers Maurice P , Ruiz-Castell Maria
Published: December 2023

Background

A substantial proportion of individuals continue experiencing persistent symptoms following the acute stage of their Covid-19 illness. However, there is a shortage of population-based studies on Long Covid risk factors.

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of Long Covid in the population of middle-aged and older Europeans having contracted Covid-19 and to assess the role of multimorbidity and socio-economic characteristics as potential risk factors of Long Covid.

Methods

A population-based longitudinal prospective study involving a sample of respondents 50 years and older (n = 4,004) from 27 countries who participated in the 2020 and 2021 Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), in particular the Corona Surveys. Analyses were conducted by a multilevel (random intercept) hurdle negative binomial model.

Results

Overall, 71.6% (95% confidence interval = 70.2–73.0%) of the individuals who contracted Covid-19 had at least one symptom of Long Covid up to 12 months after the infection, with an average of 3.06 (standard deviation = 1.88) symptoms. There were significant cross-country differences in the prevalence of Long Covid and number of symptoms. Higher education and being a man were associated with a lower risk of Long Covid, whilst being employed was associated with a higher risk of having Long Covid. Multimorbidity was associated with a higher number of symptoms and older age was associated with a lower number of symptoms.

Conclusion

Our results provide evidence on the substantial burden of Long Covid in Europe. Individuals who contracted Covid-19 may require long-term support or further medical intervention, putting additional pressure on national health care systems.
Medical Measures in Hypertensives Considered Resistant
Authors: Fadl Elmula Fadl Elmula M , Mariampillai Julian Eek , Heimark Sondre , Kjeldsen Sverre E , Burnier Michel
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Patients with resistant hypertension are the group of hypertensive patients with the highest cardiovascular risk.

METHODS

All rules and guidelines for treatment of hypertension should be followed strictly to obtain blood pressure (BP) control in resistant hypertension. The mainstay of treatment of hypertension, also for resistant hypertension, is pharmacological treatment, which should be tailored to each patient’s specific phenotype. Therefore, it is pivotal to assess nonadherence to pharmacological treatment as this remains the most challenging problem to investigate and manage in the setting of resistant hypertension.

RESULTS

Once adherence has been confirmed, patients must be thoroughly worked-up for secondary causes of hypertension. Until such possible specific causes have been clarified, the diagnosis is apparent treatment-resistant hypertension (TRH). Surprisingly few patients remain with true TRH when the various secondary causes and adherence problems have been detected and resolved. Refractory hypertension is a term used to characterize the treatment resistance in hypertensive patients using ≥5 antihypertensive drugs. All pressor mechanisms may then need blockage before their BPs are reasonably controlled.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with resistant hypertension need careful and sustained follow-up and review of their medications and dosages at each term since medication adherence is a very dynamic process.
Epigenetic histone H3 phosphorylation marks discriminate between univalent- and bivalent-forming chromosomes during canina asymmetrical meiosis
Authors: Kalfusová Radka , Herklotz Veit , Kumke Katrin , Houben Andreas , Kovařík Aleš , Ritz Christiane M , Lunerová Jana
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

Dogroses (Rosa sect. Caninae) are mostly pentaploid, bearing 2n = 5x = 35 chromosomes in somatic cells. They evolved a unique form of asymmetrical meiosis characterized by two types of chromosomes: (1) chromosomes forming bivalents and distributed in the normal sexual way; and (2) chromosomes occurring as univalents and transferred by a female gamete only. In the mature pollen of pentaploid species, seven bivalent-derived chromosomes are transmitted to offspring, and 21 unpaired univalent chromosomes are eliminated during microsporogenesis. To discriminate between bivalent- and univalent-forming chromosomes, we studied histone H3 phosphorylation patterns regulating meiotic chromosome condensation and segregation.

Methods

We analysed histone modification patterns during male canina meiosis in two representative dogrose species, 5x Rosa canina and 5x Rosa rubiginosa, by immunohistochemical and molecular cytogenetics approaches. Immunostaining of meiotic cells included α-tubulin, histone H3 phosphorylation (H3S10p, H3S28p and H3T3p) and methylation (H3K4me3 and H3K27me3) marks. In addition, fluorescent in situ hybridization was carried out with an 18S rDNA probe.

Key Results

In the first meiotic division, univalent chromosomes underwent equational division into chromatids, while homologues in bivalents were segregated as regular dyads. In diakinesis, bivalent chromosomes displayed strong H3 phosphorylation signals in proximal regions, spreading to the rest of the chromosome. In contrast, in univalents, the H3 phosphorylation signals were weaker, occurring mostly outside proximal regions largely overlapping with the H3K4me3 signals. Reduced phosphorylation was associated with relative under-condensation of the univalent chromosomes, particularly at early diakinesis.

Conclusions

We hypothesize that the absence of pairing and/or recombination in univalent chromosomes negatively affects the histone H3 phosphorylation of their chromatin and perhaps the loading of meiotic-specific cohesins. This apparently destabilizes cohesion of sister chromatids, leading to their premature split in the first meiotic division.
Cross-cultural Diagnostic Validity of the Multilingual Naming Test (MINT) in a Sample of Older Adults
Authors: Vélez-Uribe Idaly , Rosselli Mónica , Newman David , Gonzalez Joanna , Gonzalez Pineiro Yaimara , Barker Warren W , Marsiske Michael , Fiala Jacob , Lang Merike K , Conniff Joshua , Ahne Emily , Goytizolo Alicia , Loewenstein David A , Curiel Rosie E , Duara Ranjan
Published: December 2023

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties and diagnostic accuracy of the 32-item version of the Multilingual Naming Test (MINT) in participants from 2 ethnic groups (European Americans [EA; n = 106] and Hispanic Americans [HA; n = 175]) with 3 diagnostic groups (cognitively normal [CN], n = 94, mild cognitive impairment [MCI], n = 148, and dementia, n = 39).

Method

An Item Response Theory model was used to evaluate items across ethnicity and language groups (Spanish and English), resulting in a 24-item version. We analyzed the MINT discriminant and predictive validity across diagnostic groups.

Results

A total of 8 items were differentially difficult between languages in the 32-item version of the MINT. EA scored significantly higher than HA, but the difference was not significant when removing those 8 items (controlling for Education). The Receiver Operating Characteristics showed that the MINT had poor accuracy when identifying CN participants and was acceptable in identifying dementia participants but unacceptable in classifying MCI participants. Finally, we tested the association between MINT scores and magnetic resonance imaging volumetric measures of language-related areas in the temporal and frontal lobes. The 32-item MINT in English and Spanish and the 24-item MINT in Spanish were significantly correlated with the bilateral middle temporal gyrus. The left fusiform gyrus correlated with MINT scores regardless of language and MINT version. We also found differential correlations depending on the language of administration.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the importance of analyzing cross-cultural samples when implementing clinical neuropsychological tests such as the MINT.
Illicit Alcohol Markets and Everyday Crime: A Historical Reconceptualization
Authors: Yeomans Henry
Published: December 2023

Illicit alcohol markets are widely viewed as exceptional phenomena. Partly in consequence, they are under-researched and have a low political profile in Britain. This article proceeds from a contrary understanding that illicit alcohol markets are actually persistent features of the history of modern Western societies. Based on original archival research, it examines how illicit alcohol markets in England and Wales changed but endured across the long nineteenth century (c.1789–1914). It charts the decline of wholly illegal alcohol markets and the increasing prominence of hybridized enterprises which entwined legal and illegal activities. Importantly, the article proposes a significant new conceptualization of illicit alcohol markets as everyday crimes. It then considers the implications of this argument for criminological research and alcohol policy.
Transdiagnostic or disorder-specific? Altered reinforcement learning in depression and schizophrenia
Authors: Ryan Jonathan S , Treadway Michael T
Published: December 2023

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Transdiagnostic inflexible learning dynamics explain deficits in depression and schizophrenia’ by Kirschner et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awad362).
Cell-binding IgM in CSF is distinctive of multiple sclerosis and targets the iron transporter SCARA5
Authors: Callegari Ilaria , Oechtering Johanna , Schneider Mika , Perriot Sylvain , Mathias Amandine , Voortman Margarete M , Cagol Alessandro , Lanner Ulrike , Diebold Martin , Holdermann Sebastian , Kreiner Victor , Becher Burkhard , Granziera Cristina , Junker Andreas , Du Pasquier Renaud , Khalil Michael , Kuhle Jens , Kappos Ludwig , Sanderson Nicholas S R , Derfuss Tobias
Published: December 2023

Intrathecal IgM production in multiple sclerosis is associated with a worse disease course. To investigate pathogenic relevance of autoreactive IgM in multiple sclerosis, CSF from two independent cohorts, including multiple sclerosis patients and controls, were screened for antibody binding to induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons and astrocytes, and a panel of CNS-related cell lines. IgM binding to a primitive neuro-ectodermal tumour cell line discriminated 10% of multiple sclerosis donors from controls. Transcriptomes of single IgM producing CSF B cells from patients with cell-binding IgM were sequenced and used to produce recombinant monoclonal antibodies for characterization and antigen identification. We produced five cell-binding recombinant IgM antibodies, of which one, cloned from an HLA-DR + plasma-like B cell, mediated antigen-dependent complement activation. Immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry, and biochemical and transcriptome analysis of the target cells identified the iron transport scavenger protein SCARA5 as the antigen target of this antibody. Intrathecal injection of a SCARA5 antibody led to an increased T cell infiltration in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model. CSF IgM might contribute to CNS inflammation in multiple sclerosis by binding to cell surface antigens like SCARA5 and activating complement, or by facilitating immune cell migration into the brain.
Voluntary exercise during puberty promotes spatial memory and hippocampal DG/CA3 synaptic transmission in mice
Authors: Wan Changjian , Song Xueqing , Zhang Zhuyu , Hu Wenxiang , Chen Yanhua , Sun Wei , Liu Zhibin , Wang Songhua , Meng Wei
Published: December 2023

Physical exercise has been shown to have an impact on memory and hippocampal function across different age groups. Nevertheless, the influence and mechanisms underlying how voluntary exercise during puberty affects memory are still inadequately comprehended. This research aims to examine the impacts of self-initiated physical activity throughout adolescence on spatial memory. Developing mice were exposed to a 4-wk voluntary wheel running exercise protocol, commencing at the age of 30 d. After engaging in voluntary wheel running exercise during development, there was an enhancement in spatial memory. Moreover, hippocampal dentate gyrus and CA3 neurons rather than CA1 neurons exhibited an increase in the miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents and miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents. In addition, there was an increase in the expression of NR2A/NR2B subunits of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors and α1GABAA subunit of gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors, as well as dendritic spine density, specifically within dentate gyrus and CA3 regions rather than CA1 region. The findings suggest that voluntary exercise during development can enhance spatial memory in mice by increasing synapse numbers and improving synaptic transmission in hippocampal dentate gyrus and CA3 regions, but not in CA1 region. This study sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying how early-life exercise improves cognitive function.
SplicingLore: a web resource for studying the regulation of cassette exons by human splicing factors
Authors: Polvèche Hélène , Valat Jessica , Fontrodona Nicolas , Lapendry Audrey , Clerc Valentine , Janczarski Stéphane , Mortreux Franck , Auboeuf Didier , Bourgeois Cyril F
Published: December 2023

One challenge faced by scientists from the alternative RNA splicing field is to decode the cooperative or antagonistic effects of splicing factors (SFs) to understand and eventually predict splicing outcomes on a genome-wide scale. In this manuscript, we introduce SplicingLore, an open-access database and web resource that help to fill this gap in a straightforward manner. The database contains a collection of RNA-sequencing-derived lists of alternative exons regulated by a total of 75 different SFs. All datasets were processed in a standardized manner, ensuring valid comparisons and correlation analyses. The user can easily retrieve a factor-specific set of differentially included exons from the database or provide a list of exons and search which SF(s) control(s) their inclusion. Our simple workflow is fast and easy to run, and it ensures a reliable calculation of correlation scores between the tested datasets. As a proof of concept, we predicted and experimentally validated a novel functional cooperation between the RNA helicases DDX17 and DDX5 and the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (HNRNPC) protein. SplicingLore is available at https://splicinglore.ens-lyon.fr/.

Database URL:  https://splicinglore.ens-lyon.fr/
Video versus telephone for telehealth delivery: a cross-sectional study of Australian general practice trainees
Authors: Fisher Katie , Tapley Amanda , Ralston Anna , Davey Andrew , Fielding Alison , van Driel Mieke , Holliday Elizabeth , Ball Jean , Dizon Jason , Spike Neil , Clarke Lisa , Magin Parker
Published: December 2023

Background

Remunerated telehealth consultations were introduced in Australia in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Videoconferencing has advantages over telephone-consulting, including improved diagnostic and decision-making accuracy. However, videoconferencing uptake in Australia has been low. This study aimed to establish prevalence and associations of video versus telephone consultations in Australian general practice (GP) registrars’ practice.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis of data from 2020 to 2021 (three 6-monthly data-collection rounds) from the Registrars Clinical Encounters in Training (ReCEnT) study. GP registrars record details of 60 consecutive consultations every 6-month term, for a total of 3 terms. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were performed within the Generalized Estimating Equations framework with the outcome video versus telephone.

Results

102,286 consultations were recorded by 1,168 registrars, with 21.4% of consultations performed via telehealth. Of these, telephone accounted for 96.6% (95% CI: 96.3–96.8%) and videoconferencing for 3.4% (95% CI: 3.2–3.7%). Statistically significant associations of using videoconferencing, compared to telephone, included longer consultation duration (OR 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01–1.03 per minute; and mean 14.9 versus 12.8 min), patients aged 0–14 years old (OR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.03–1.62, compared to age 15–34), patients new to the registrar (OR 1.19, 95% CI: 1.04–1.35), part-time registrars (OR 1.84, 95% CI: 1.08–3.15), and areas of less socioeconomic disadvantage (OR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.00–1.62 per decile).

Conclusions

Registrars’ telehealth consultations were mostly performed via telephone. Telephone use being associated with socioeconomic disadvantage has health equity implications. Future research should explore barriers to videoconferencing use and strategies to increase its uptake.
Association of primary care visit length with outpatient utilization, continuity, and care processes
Authors: Liss David T , Cooper Andrew J , Cherupally Manisha , Brown Tiffany , Pearson Marilyn G
Published: December 2023

Background

Little is known about how variation in the scheduled length of primary care visits can impact patients’ patterns of health care utilization.

Objective

To evaluate how the scheduled length of in-person visits with primary care physicians (PCPs) was associated with PCP and patient characteristics, outpatient utilization, and preventive care receipt.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined data from a large American academic health system. PCP visit length template was defined as either 15- and 30-min scheduled appointments (i.e. 15/30), or 20- and 40-min scheduled appointments (i.e. 20/40).

Results

Of 222 included PCPs, 85 (38.3%) used the 15/30 template and 137 (61.7%) used the 20/40 template. The 15/30 group had higher proportions of male (49.4%, vs. 35.8% in the 20/40 group) and family medicine (37.6% vs. 21.2%) physicians. In adjusted patient-level analysis (N = 238,806), having a 15/30 PCP was associated with 9% more primary care visits (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03–1.14), and 8% fewer specialty care visits (IRR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86–0.98). PCP visit length template was not associated with significant differences in obstetrics/gynaecology visits, continuity of care, or preventive care receipt. In interaction analyses, having a 15/30 PCP was associated with additional primary care visits among non-Hispanic White patients (IRR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.04–1.16) but not among non-Hispanic Black patients.

Conclusion

PCPs’ choices about the scheduled length of in-person visits may impact their patients’ specialty care use, and have varying impacts across different racial/ethnic groups.
The contributions of DNA accessibility and transcription factor occupancy to enhancer activity during cellular differentiation
Authors: Long Trevor , Bhattacharyya Tapas , Repele Andrea , Naylor Madison , Nooti Sunil , Krueger Shawn , Manu
Published: December 2023

During gene regulation, DNA accessibility is thought to limit the availability of transcription factor (TF) binding sites, while TFs can increase DNA accessibility to recruit additional factors that upregulate gene expression. Given this interplay, the causative regulatory events in the modulation of gene expression remain unknown for the vast majority of genes. We utilized deeply sequenced ATAC-Seq data and site-specific knock-in reporter genes to investigate the relationship between the binding-site resolution dynamics of DNA accessibility and the expression dynamics of the enhancers of Cebpa during macrophage-neutrophil differentiation. While the enhancers upregulate reporter expression during the earliest stages of differentiation, there is little corresponding increase in their total accessibility. Conversely, total accessibility peaks during the last stages of differentiation without any increase in enhancer activity. The accessibility of positions neighboring C/EBP-family TF binding sites, which indicates TF occupancy, does increase significantly during early differentiation, showing that the early upregulation of enhancer activity is driven by TF binding. These results imply that a generalized increase in DNA accessibility is not sufficient, and binding by enhancer-specific TFs is necessary, for the upregulation of gene expression. Additionally, high-coverage ATAC-Seq combined with time-series expression data can infer the sequence of regulatory events at binding-site resolution.
Gut Microbiota Richness and Diversity Track With T Cell Aging in Healthy Adults
Authors: Madison Annelise A , Burd Christin E , Andridge Rebecca , Wilson Stephanie J , Bailey Michael T , Belury Martha A , Spakowicz Daniel J , Malarkey William B , Kiecolt-Glaser Janice K
Published: December 2023

Background

This study examined how gut microbiota diversity and richness relate to T cell aging among 96 healthy adults of all ages. It also explored whether these links differed throughout the lifespan.

Methods

Peripheral blood was obtained from 96 study participants (N = 96, aged 21–72) to assess mRNA markers of T cell aging (p16ink4a, p14ARF, B3gat1, Klrg1) and DNA methylation. T cell aging mRNA markers were combined into an aging index, and the Horvath epigenetic clock algorithm was used to calculate epigenetic age based on DNA methylation status of over 500 loci. Participants also collected a stool sample from which the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was sequenced to derive the Shannon and Simpson diversity indices, and the total count of observed operational taxonomic units (richness). Models controlled for BMI, comorbidities, sex, dietary quality, smoking status, physical activity, and sleep quality.

Results

Lower microbiota richness was associated with higher T cell age based on mRNA markers, but when probing the region of significance, this relationship was only significant among adults 45 years and older (p = .03). Lower Shannon diversity (p = .05) and richness (p = .07) marginally correlated with higher epigenetic age (ie, greater T cell DNA methylation).

Conclusions

Gut microbiota complexity may correspond with the rate of T cell aging, especially in mid-to-late life. These results suggest an interplay between the gut microbiome and immunological aging that warrants further experimental work.
STAKEHOLDERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON AN AREA AGENCIES ON AGING SERVING URBAN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Hopp Faith , Keys Fay
Published: December 2023

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in urban areas play a critical role in helping older adults maintain and enhance their quality of life. The Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA), recognizing the importance of involving Detroit area seniors and community stakeholders in long-term strategic initiatives, funded a comprehensive needs assessment of the region’s seniors. This study reports findings from an online survey in the winter of 2020, (n=94) aimed at identifying stakeholder views of DAAA programs and services. We used descriptive statistical analyses for closed-ended items and content analysis to identify themes from open-ended questions. Most respondents were either direct service purchase vendors (34.0%) or contractors (22.3%). The highest ranked perceived agency role was information and assistance (mean=2.41; SD=1.02), followed by direct service provision (mean=2.45; SD=1.52), coordination of aging services (mean=2.63; SD=1.54), education (mean=3.40; SD=1.11), and training (mean=4.10; SD=0.99). The most commonly mentioned areas needed for the region to become age-friendly were supportive community services (66.3%), public transportation (44.9%), safety and security (41.6%), available and affordable housing (40.4%), access to healthcare (38.2%), and housing maintenance/modification (24.7%). The most common themes from open-ended responses included outreach, collaboration, and promoting aging in place. These findings suggest the imperative of providing accessible, high-quality services that promote aging in place in urban areas through community outreach and collaboration activities. Detroit area seniors are a vital community resource, and ongoing stakeholder input is needed as part of collaborative efforts to meet their complex emerging health and social needs.
SPILLOVER EFFECTS OF RESIDENTIAL SPATIAL SOCIAL POLARIZATION AND HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AMONG VA NURSING HOME RESIDENTS
Authors: Magid Hoda Abdel , Odden Michelle
Published: December 2023

Spatial social polarization (SSP) – the process by which a population within an area diverges across socioeconomic characteristics– has been associated with hypertension. SSP indices measure the extent to which a population is distributed at extremes of privilege and deprivation. The VA nursing home represents an environment where spatially-oriented disparities are expected to be attenuated due to the fact that Veterans have equal access to care. We examined the association between SSP measured at residents’ home addresses prior to admission with blood pressure (BP) outcomes in the first four weeks after admission. We evaluated the use of the index of concentration (ICE) of extremes to measure SSP across four socioeconomic domains including race/ethnicity, income, home ownership, and joint race/ethnicity with income at the tract level using 2010 census data. SSP was dichotomized as the first (most polarized and disadvantaged) quintile vs. the 2nd -5th quintiles. The analytic sample included 41,972 long-term care residents aged ≥65 years admitted from 2006-2019. Multilevel mixed-effects regression models were adjusted for individual demographics and chronic conditions. We found Veterans who had resided in the most polarized and disadvantaged quintile (Q1) had a 1.10 (95% 1.01, 1.19) relative risk of high BP compared to those in Q 2-5 for the ICE jointly measuring race/ethnicity and income. We found similar results for systolic BP. In summary, SSP that jointly measures economic and racial/ethnic polarization, may have a spillover effect on health disparities even in a healthcare setting with equal access.
INCORPORATING NEW MEASURES OF NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORTS FOR HEALTHY AGING INTO EXISTING COHORTS
Authors: Hirsch Jana , Michael Yvonne
Published: December 2023

Longstanding cohort studies have a wealth of well-characterized sociodemographic, phenotypic, behavioral, genetic, health, and neighborhood longitudinal data, often spanning decades. In addition to original aims, we have an obligation to leverage the current cohort studies to better understand the aging process and neighborhood supports for healthy aging. We used a multi-pronged approach to design and add aging-relevant neighborhood measures to the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) during Exam 7 (ongoing since 2022), when the entire cohort had aged to >67 years. In addition to continuing survey measures from historic visits on food environments, safety, social cohesion, trust, and physical activity resources we added novel metrics to the MESA Neighborhood Ancillary questionnaire. These include across environmental domains relevant for physical function (e.g. curb cuts, availability of places to rest, lighting, crosswalk speeds), cognitive function (e.g. places to learn new things, signage), and ability to age in place (e.g. neighborhood changes related to cost or pressures). To complement existing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data in MESA, we collected and developed new GIS measures similarly related to these three domains: physical function (e.g. senior center density, physical therapist density), cognitive function (e.g. destinations to enrich cognitive function, places to socialize, new greenness measures), and ability to age in place (e.g. age isolation, age-friendly policies). Our ability to leverage decades of data on well-characterized cohorts by complementing existing data with new, neighborhood supports for healthy aging opens novel research opportunities to understand health across the lifecourse.
TRAINING IN HEALTH AND AGING POLICY MID CAREER—REFLECTING ON A POTENTIAL INFLECTION POINT
Authors: Springgate Benjamin
Published: December 2023

The Health and Aging Policy Fellowship (HAPF) trains fellows to understand policymaking with the goal to improve the lives of older people across life domains. Comparatively few mid-career or more senior experts in healthcare or aging have direct experience with federal or state policymaking, or working to inform evidence-based health policy. As a senior physician faculty member at a School of Medicine and School of Public Health, in recent years the author has worked at state and local levels to inform evidence-based health policy. The HAPF offered an opportunity for the author to improve knowledge and understanding of decision-making and policymaking in Washington DC and at the federal level. Fellowship-sponsored training improved fellows’ understanding of health policy and potential effectiveness in federal health policy environments. Trainings through HAPF, the American Political Science Association, and Academy Health provided greater breadth and depth of knowledge on roles of various agencies, executive and congressional policymaking, and understanding factors influencing policymaking. This training enhanced the author’s readiness for fellowship activities in a U.S. Senate office. Exposure to experts in health and aging opened the door to fellows’ participation in efforts to improve opportunities for healthy aging and to advance age-friendly health systems. Work in the U.S. Senate includes exposure to federal, state, non-governmental stakeholders who can work together to influence policy to improve the lives of aging and older people. The author will highlight specific examples of training, policy opportunities, and policy challenges in the context of his fellowship.
EFFECTS OF ACUTE AND CHRONIC CANNABIS/CANNABINOIDS ON COGNITIVE FUNCTION ACROSS THE LIFESPAN
Authors: Setlow Barry , Zequeira Sabrina , Gazarov Emely , Bizon Jennifer
Published: December 2023

Cannabis and cannabinoids such as THC (the major psychoactive component of cannabis) tend to impair cognitive performance, but almost all research on this topic has been conducted in young adults. Given that many aged individuals already exhibit cognitive deficits, it is important to determine how cannabis/cannabinoids affect cognition in this population. We used an animal model (young adult and aged rats) to evaluate the effects of both acute cannabis smoke and chronic oral THC on several tests of cognitive function. Both acute smoke (males only) and chronic THC (both sexes) enhanced working memory in aged rats, but neither affected young adults. In contrast, both regimens tended to impair performance on tests of spatial/episodic memory in an age-independent manner. Results suggest that although cannabis has potential for cognitive benefits in aging, its effects likely depend on both the cognitive domain tested and the manner in which it is administered.
AN AGENDA FOR THE FAMILY CARE GAP: ALIGNING SCIENCE, FAMILY EXPERIENCES, AND PUBLIC HEALTH
Authors: Gaugler Joseph
Published: December 2023

When considering the public health ramifications of family caregiving, a major concern is the future supply of family, friends, or other unpaid caregivers (hereafter referred to as family caregivers) of older persons with health needs. This presentation will summarize the state of the science on estimating the future “supply” of family caregivers for older persons, and whether there are structural or social determinants, in addition to long-standing socio demographic trends, which may contribute to the family care gap. In addition, the presentation will outline a potential research agenda on the family care gap that summarizes the potential implications of this phenomenon as well as how it aligns with efforts to elevate family caregiving for older people (particularly those living with dementia) as a matter of public health import.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN 5 EPIGENETIC CLOCKS, TELOMERE LENGTH, AND FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY ASSESSED IN OLDER ADULTS: CROSS-SECTIONAL AND LONGITUDINAL ANALYSES
Authors: Demuth Ilja
Published: December 2023

DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glab381
CANAGLIFLOZIN INCREASES INTESTINAL ADENOMA BURDEN IN FEMALE APCMIN/+ MICE
Authors: Korfhage Justin , Lombard David
Published: December 2023

DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glab254