bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of vehicle-to-grid integration on power grid stability: A review
Authors: Umair Muhammad , Hidayat Nabil M , Nik Ali N H , Abdullah Ezmin , Bin Johari Ahmad Rais , Hakomori Tomomi
Published: December 2023

This article explores the promising potential of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, which has attracted considerable interest due to its capacity to enhance power grid stability, decrease carbon emissions, and boost renewable energy utilization. The study begins by examining recent developments in V2G technology, then proceeds to discuss the challenges associated with integrating V2G into the power grid, and finally presents strategies to improve grid stability. Despite the potential of V2G technology, certain challenges must be addressed, including grid stress, complexities in load management, and grid imbalances. The article outlines various strategies to improve power grid stability, such as smart energy metering, time-of-use (TOU) schemes, rolling prediction decision frameworks, and an array of control approaches. Additionally, the research highlights the application of machine learning algorithms for efficient EV scheduling and power control units, voltage stabilization systems, and energy management units to ensure grid reliability. Future research should focus on developing scalable infrastructure solutions, establishing universal standards, designing optimization algorithms, and devising strategies to enhance battery life, to facilitate efficient V2G integration.
Examining the relationship of environmental and community well-being towards sustainability of electric vehicles (EV) bus program
Authors: Jali Muhamad Nizam , Ahmad Zaini Ahmad Fauzi , Megat Ibrahim Nan Zakiah , Razali Rizal Effendi , Shafie Mohd Nordin
Published: December 2023

The primary objective of this research paper is to examine the environmental impact, community well-being, and sustainability of the Electric Vehicle (EV) Bus Program. The study evaluates three critical factors - sustainability, environmental impact, and community well- being. 117 questionnaires were collected and were useful for analysis. The study discovered a positive and robust correlation between sustainability considerations and environmental impact. Additionally, the research revealed that there is a strong link between community well-being and sustainability. These results offer valuable insights into the essential variables and emphasize the significance of ensuring the sustainability of the Electric Vehicles (EV) Bus Program.
Sustainable marine ecotourism governance based on tourism preferences
Authors: Nurhayati Atikah , Herawati Titin , Handaka Asep Agus , Pamungkas Wahyuniar , Akbarsyah Nora , Sudarmono Agnes
Published: December 2023

The utilization of coastal areas and small islands in Indonesia is for marine ecotourism. Marine tourism areas need to be managed and regulate marine tourism activities that form interconnectivity between sectors including the conservation of fisheries and marine resources. Based on landscape conditions (bio-ecoregion) and tourist preferences, choosing marine tourism destinations. This research aims to analyze sustainable marine ecotourism governance based on tourism preferences. the research was conducted from August 2022 - to February 2023 using primary and secondary data. The technique for taking respondents used a purposive sampling of 100 respondents. The analytical tool used to analyze the factors influencing tourists to visit marine tourism destinations uses the Partial Least Square – Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) method. Based on the results of research on factors that influence tourists’ decision-making in choosing marine tourism destinations, namely: income (X1), level of education (X2), distance traveled to tourist destinations (X3), accessibility (X4), accommodation (X5), infrastructure (X6), information from social media (X7), security and safety (X8). Governance is carried out by considering social-ecological system aspects based on coastal area utilization zones, but not all of them are implemented properly, so collaboration between stakeholders is needed to support the sustainability of marine tourism.
Growth pattern of yellow finned barb (Mystacoleucus marginatus, Valenciennes 1842) in the Lau Belawan River, Pancur Batu District, North Sumatera Province
Authors: Desrita  , Hasibuan J S , Fadhilah A , Mulia D S , Nurfadillah
Published: December 2023

Yellow finned barb is one of the potential fish from the Lau Belawan River, North Sumatra. This study aims to determine the growth patterns of Yellow finned barb (Mystacoleucus marginatus) in the Lau Belawan River, Pancur Batu District, North Sumatera Province. The research was carried out from November 2022 until January 2023. Fish were caught using throwing nets with a mesh size of 0.2 inches with the help of local fishermen. The research location is divided into three stations with different characteristics for each station. During the study, the number of catches obtained was 114 (65 male fish and 49 female fish), with a total length of fish ranging from 51 to 162 mm. The catch at each station was different; stations II and III had 41 individuals, while stations I had only 32 individuals. The length of fish caught was dominated by 93–106 mm, and the lowest number caught was around 149–162 mm. The fish caught consisted of males and females, with a sex ratio 1:1.33. The growth pattern of male Yellow finned barb is negative allometric, while the female is positive allometric. Meanwhile, the condition factor value for male fish is 0.87; the female is 1.07.
Survival Rate and Growth of Red Tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) Seed Hybridized from Four Different Strains
Authors: Laily Farkhana , Hikma Afida Sabilil , Rustadi
Published: December 2023

Breeding red tilapia is one of the solutions to produce the best tillers based on their growth. The strains used are Cangkringan, Janti, Sukabumi, and Sukamandi. Each strain was spawned to produce 16 crosses, both inbreeding and outbreeding. This study aims to determine the results of crosses that have the best growth based on survival rate, growth, and feed conversion ratio. This research lasted for 90 days from 1 September 2022 to 30 March 2023 at the Aquaculture Technology Development Center DIY, Cangkringan, Sleman. Spawning was done by hybridization. The study was conducted in a completely randomized design using a 1×1 meter pond. Feed is given 2 times a day with a 10% biomass ratio. This study was conducted by two nurseries. Observation of the weight and length of individuals was carried out by sampling, as well as water quality every two weeks. Survival rate, growth, and feed conversion ratio data were analyzed by analysis of variance and tested by Tukey’s Multiple Comparison Test. Water qualities were tested descriptively. The results obtained: survival rate ranged from 73-98%, specific weight 1.35-6.451%, and feed conversion ratio 1.11-1.68. From the results of the research, it can be concluded that the Janti-Sukamandi cross breeding has the best quality for the first nursery and the Cangkringan-Sukabumi cross breeding has the best quality for the second nursery. The water quality meets the requirements for cultivating red tilapia.
Quality of skipjack surimi (Katsuwonus pelamis) with addition of calcium carbonate (CaCO3)
Authors: Hidayat M F , Ustadi
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of the addition of CaCO3 as a whitening agent on the quality properties of the skipjack surimi. The functional properties were evaluated using physical and chemical tests, including white degree analysis, folding test, texture test, water holding capacity, and fat content analysis. Skipjack surimi was carried out in four treatments: 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% CaCO3 in a completely randomized design (CRD). The results revealed that adding 1.5% CaCO3 achieved the highest white degree value of 54.22. The folding test values increased with higher CaCO3 concentrations, ranging from 1.57 (control) to 2.05 (1.5% CaCO3). Surimi fat content analysis showed no significant differences (P>0.05) between treatments, varying from 1.16% in the control to 1.51% in the 1.5% CaCO3 treatment. Furthermore, the WHC of skipjack surimi was significantly different (P<0.05) between treatments and increased with the addition of CaCO3: 52.44% (0% CaCO3), 66.42% (0.5% CaCO3), 74.57% (1 % CaCO3), and 79.96 % (1.5% CaCO3). However, sensory color tests showed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the treatments. In conclusion, the incorporation of 1.5% CaCO3 as a whitening agent resulted in an optimal treatment with a folding test value of 2.05 and a WHC value of 79.96%. These findings suggested the potential use of CaCO3 to enhance the functional properties of skipjack surimi during production.
Consumer Preference and Nutritional Value of Catfish Nuggets Substituted with Jellyfish
Authors: Haji M T P , Ustadi
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of jellyfish meat substitution in the production of catfish nugget on the nutrient content and acceptability of the nugget, and to determine the best composition to produce quality nugget. The research design used a completely randomized design (CRD), there were 4 types of treatment with 3 replications. The treatments were the percentage of catfish meat: jellyfish meat including T0 (100:0), T1 (90:10), T2 (80:20) and T3 (70:30). Parameters measured were hedonic organoleptic characteristics (aroma, taste, texture and overall) and nutritive content (moisture, ash, fat and protein content). The data obtained were analyzed using the ANOVA test (Analysis of Variance) and if there was a significant difference then it was continued with the Duncan test. The results showed that the hedonic value of catfish nuggets substituted for jellyfish meat gave a significant difference (p <0.05) in each of the parameters tested, namely aroma, taste, texture and overall. The catfish nugget substituted with 20% jellyfish meat (T2) gave the best sensory quality on aroma (3.77), taste (3.67), texture (3.60) and overall score (3.77). The results of testing the proximate content of catfish nuggets substituted for jellyfish meat showed significantly different results (p<0.05) for each parameter. However, all catfish nuggets treated with jellyfish substitution (T1, T2, and T2) as well as treatment without jellyfish substitution (T0) met the quality standards of the nuggets, except for the ash content in the nuggets. It can be concluded that the best formula is in the treatment (T2), the catfish nugget substituted with 20% jellyfish meat with a protein, fat, water and ash content of 10.36%, 2.52%, 13.49% and 5.45%, respectively.
Characteristics of ready to cook product from dried pempek with freezing treatment before drying
Authors: Fahmi A S , Romadhon
Published: December 2023

Pempek is a popular ready to cook fish cake in Indonesia with a high level of moisture content. At room temperature, pempek can only stored for a few hours. There are several variants of pempek available in the market in the form of dried pempek which can be stored at room temperature for a long time. These dried products need to be rehydrated before cooking. The drying technology of dried pempek will affect the characteristics of the ready-to-cook product after the rehydration process. This study aims to determine the effect of freezing before drying on the characteristics of ready to cook rehydrated dried pempek (curly shape pempek). The experimental treatments tested were freezing treatment and non-freezing treatment. Each treatment was repeated in 3 replications of experiment. Freezing process were carried out in a household freezer for 24 hours and the drying process were carried out in an electric oven at 45°C for 12 hours. The results showed that after rehydration, dried pempek could returned to its original characteristics like before drying. Freezing treatment before drying gave a higher rehydration ratio, better texture and lighter appearance than without freezing treatment.
Effect of carboxymethyl cellulose addition on the characteristic of chitosan-based bioplastic
Authors: Putranti L N , Nugraheni P S
Published: December 2023

Bioplastic is an alternative solution in solving the problem of the plastic waste accumulation. Chitosan is a marine product waste from the crustacean group that can be used as a raw material for bioplastic because of its good film-forming ability. However, the bioplastic from chitosan has the property of being easily broken, so another material is added, namely carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), that increase the bond’s compactness. This study aims to determine the effect of the addition of CMC on the characteristics of bioplastic made from 2% chitosan and 0.5% glycerol with a volume ratio of 10:1 chitosan:CMC. The experimental design used was a completely randomized design (CRD) with the addition of CMC (0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75% and 1%). The characteristics of the bioplastic tested in this study included film thickness, density, water content, solubility, tensile strength, elongation, antibacterial activity, and functional group analysis. The addition of 0.5% CMC resulted the bioplastic with a film thickness of 0.072 mm, the density of 0.836 g/cm3, the water content of 16.99%, the solubility of 40.5%, the tensile strength of 12.83 MPa, the elongation of 41.76%, inhibition zone of the antibacterial activity of 2.83 mm and a new group is formed in film that was made.
Experimentally seeded social cues in the wild: costs to bearers and potential benefits to receivers
Authors: Doherty Clare T M , Laidre Mark E
Published: December 2023

Conspecifics can provide social cues about the presence of key features of the surrounding environment, such as food or predators. Attending to social cues may therefore potentially benefit receivers, or at least be worth following. Yet, bearing social cues could also be costly, particularly if it increases the likelihood of close-range interaction with non-kin. Here, we experimentally seeded social cues in the wild onto focal individuals of the social hermit crab (Coenobita compressus), testing (1) the “potential benefits to receivers” hypothesis, which predicts that receivers will follow social cues to orient toward valuable resources, and (2) the “costs to bearers” hypothesis, which predicts that bearers of social cues will experience direct (physical) costs or indirect (constrained movement) costs due to interaction with receivers. Consistent with hypothesis (1), in natural encounters, conspecifics that crossed paths frequently made antennal contact, potentially gathering social information at close range. In experiments, naive conspecifics followed focal individuals bearing “positive” social cues (about a valuable food resource) significantly more often than they followed individuals bearing less attractive (“neutral” or “ambivalent”) social cues, pointing to a potential benefit. Consistent with hypothesis (2), individuals bearing positive social cues incurred greater direct and indirect costs, being physically flipped more often and achieving shorter displacements compared to individuals bearing other social cues. We conclude that experimentally seeded social cues in the wild can confer costs to bearers and potentially benefit receivers. Broadly, the costs of bearing social cues, revealed here, underscore the importance of not overlooking that social cues may be costly.
Topical gene editing therapeutics using lipid nanoparticles: ‘gene creams’ for genetic skin diseases?
Authors: Guri-Lamce Ina , AlRokh Yara , Kim Youngah , Maeshima Ruhina , Graham Carina , Hart Stephen L , McGrath John A , Jacków-Malinowska Joanna
Published: December 2023

Patients living with inherited skin diseases have benefited from recent advances in DNA sequencing technologies that provide new or improved diagnostics. However, developing and delivering new treatments for the ‘genodermatoses’ remains challenging. The goal of creating topical preparations that can recover the inherent gene pathology remains largely aspirational. However, recent progress in two fields – the chemistry of topical delivery formulations (lipid nanoparticles) and the molecular biology of gene repair (CRISPR-Cas9, base and prime editing) – presents new opportunities to address this unmet need. In this review, we discuss how lipid nanoparticle delivery vehicles could be used to deliver gene-editing tools to formulate topical ‘gene creams’ suitable for the treatment of genodermatoses. We summarize the historical landscape of topical therapeutics and advances in gene editing that may herald an era of new therapies for patients with inherited skin disorders.
Changing Trends in Child Welfare Inequalities in Northern Ireland
Authors: Bunting Lisa , Gleghorne Nicole , Maguire Aideen , McKenna Sarah , O’Reilly Dermot
Published: December 2023

Longitudinal research in England and Wales has identified increasing inequality in child welfare interventions, particularly with respect to children in the poorest areas coming into care. Although previous cross-sectional research has shown associations between area level deprivation and child welfare interventions to be weakest in Northern Ireland (NI), it remains unknown if this reflects wider trends over time. This study uses longitudinal administrative data to investigate the relationship between area level deprivation and the (1) referral, (2) investigation, (3) registration and (4) looked after stages of children’s contact with child and family social work from 2010 to 2017 (stages 1–3) and 2020 (stage 4). Both relative and absolute measures of inequality (Ratio of Inequality, Slope Index of Inequality and Relative Index of Inequality) were calculated to examine trends. The results highlight a clear and increasing social gradient in child welfare interventions in NI over time, particularly at the higher levels of intervention and those involving children aged 0–4 years. Routine analysis of children’s social care caseloads by deprivation is highlighted as a means of focusing attention on poverty and material inequality, prompting practitioners, managers and policy makers to consider the drivers of such inequality and how this might be addressed.
Cardiac tamponade associated with primary myelofibrosis: a case report
Authors: Widodo Wishnu Aditya , Putra Teuku Muhammad Haykal , Elfiana Maria , Khorinal Eka Widya
Published: December 2023

Background

Cardiac tamponade is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an abnormal amount of fluid accumulates in the pericardial sac and impedes the cardiac filling process. Although extremely rare, haematological diseases have the potential to trigger an extramedullary haematopoiesis (EMH) process within the pericardium, resulting in a substantial build-up of pericardial effusion.

Case summary

We present the case of a 29-year-old male previously diagnosed with primary myelofibrosis (PMF), who presented to the emergency unit with cardiac tamponade. An emergent pericardiocentesis procedure was performed, successfully evacuating 850 mL of haemorrhagic fluid. Over the course of 3 days, a total of 1.5 L of haemorrhagic effusion were drained from the pericardial space. Analysis of the pericardial fluid revealed evidence of haematopoietic activity, suggesting a potential association with the EMH process occurring within the pericardium. Following a 7-day hospitalization, the patient was discharged in stable condition but later experienced the development of constrictive pericarditis.

Discussion

Haemorrhagic pericardial effusion is a rare occurrence. The majority of cases stems from complications of medical procedures (iatrogenic), malignancies, or side effects of antiplatelet/anticoagulant medications. In patients with PMF, the impaired haematopoietic ability caused by the fibrotic process in the bone marrow compels the body to produce blood components elsewhere, a phenomenon known as EMH. On very rare occasions, EMH can develop in the pericardial space, potentially leading to life-threatening cardiac tamponade. Our patient was successfully managed through pericardial fluid evacuation and drainage but later developed constrictive pericarditis.
Social anxiety, behavioural activation and depression risk in older men: protection through Men’s Shed membership
Authors: Clarke James J , Talbot Rebecca , Holmes Kirsten , Wild James , Ashley Jaxon , McEvoy Peter M
Published: December 2023

Reducing rates of depressive symptoms in older adults is a public health priority. Men’s Sheds are a community organisation that may protect against depressive symptoms in older men. It is currently unclear how social anxiety and behavioural activation may relate to depressive symptoms for Men’s Shed members. We employed a cross-sectional design to explore whether the relationships between social anxiety, behavioural activation and depressive symptoms were contingent upon Shed social network quality in a sample of 164 Men’s Shed members. Conditional effects analysis found social anxiety (B = -0.08, p < 0.01) and behavioural activation’s (B = 0.02, p < 0.001) relationships with depression to be contingent on Shed social network quality. Additionally, we found evidence for a conditional effect of social anxiety on the relationship between behavioural activation and depression (B = −0.03, p < 0.01) such that this relationship was stronger for those with higher levels of social anxiety. Our findings suggest that a strong social network within a Men’s Shed weakens the association between social anxiety and depression, that the relationship between behavioural activation and depression is stronger in those with poorer Shed social networks, and that the relationship between behavioural activation and depression may be stronger for those with higher levels of social anxiety. We suggest that our findings contribute to increasing quantitative support for the mental health benefits of Men’s Shed membership, highlight the potential importance of Shed social network quality and explore how social anxiety may affect the mental health outcomes for members.
Scholarship in Times of Constitutional Transformation: A View from Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Cora
Published: December 2023

Hong Kong's constitutional order has been undergoing a momentous transformation since 2020. The introduction of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the use of a plethora of other security tools have pushed Hong Kong's largely liberal legal order in an increasingly authoritarian direction. This article examines the implications of these changes for academic freedom in the territory. Through the lens of Hong Kong, it examines the unique challenges facing constitutional law scholars in authoritarian or liberal backsliding contexts, as well as the distinct contributions they can make. It concludes with reflections on the relevance of arguments against `scholactivism' to authoritarian contexts. The analysis in this article will help us to understand what scholars should and can do in politically volatile environments more generally.
Applying a simplified economic evaluation approach to evaluate infertility treatments in clinical practice
Authors: Feng Qian , Li Wentao , Callander Emily J , Wang Rui , Mol Ben W
Published: December 2023

IVF is the backbone of infertility treatment, but due to its costs, it is not affordable for everyone. The cost of IVF is further escalated by interventions added to the routine treatment, which are claimed to boost pregnancy rates, so-called add-ons. Consequently, it is critical to offset the increased costs of an intervention against a potentially higher benefit. Here, we propose using a simplified framework considering the cost of a standard IVF procedure to create one live-born baby as a benchmark for the cost-effectiveness of other fertility treatments, add-ons inclusive. This framework is a simplified approach to a formal economic evaluation, enabling a rapid assessment of cost effectiveness in clinical settings. For a 30-year-old woman, assuming a 44.6% cumulative live birth rate and a cost of $12 000 per complete cycle, the cost to create one live-born baby would be ∼$27 000 (i.e. willingness to pay). Under this concept, the decision whether to accept or reject a new treatment depends from an economic perspective on the incremental cost per additional live birth from the new treatment/add-on, with the $27 000 per live-born baby as a reference threshold. This threshold can vary with women’s age, and other factors such as the economic perspective and risk of side effects can play a role. If a new add-on or treatment costs >$27 000 per live birth, it might be more rational to invest in a new IVF cycle rather than spending on the add-on. With the increasing number of novel technologies in IVF and the lack of a rapid approach to evaluate their cost-effectiveness, this simplified framework will help with a more objective assessment of the cost-effectiveness of infertility treatments, including add-ons.
Could the sperm epigenome become a diagnostic tool for evaluation of the infertile man?
Authors: Caroppo Ettore , Skinner Michael K
Published: December 2023

Although male infertility is currently diagnosed when abnormal sperm parameters are found, the poor predictive ability of sperm parameters on natural fecundity and medically assisted reproduction outcome poses the need for improved diagnostic techniques for male infertility. The accumulating evidence about the role played by the sperm epigenome in modulation of the early phases of embryonic development has led researchers to focus on the epigenetic mechanisms within the sperm epigenome to find new molecular markers of male infertility. Indeed, sperm epigenome abnormalities could explain some cases of unexplained male infertility in men showing normal sperm parameters and were found to be associated with poor embryo development in IVF cycles. The present mini-review summarizes the current knowledge about this interesting topic, starting from a description of the epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression regulation (i.e. DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs’ activity). We also discuss possible mechanisms by which environmental factors might cause epigenetic changes in the human germline and affect embryonic development, as well as subsequent generations' phenotypes. Studies demonstrating sperm epigenome abnormalities in men with male infertility are reviewed, with particular emphasis on those with the more severe form of spermatogenic dysfunction. Observations demonstrate that the diagnostic and prognostic efficacy of sperm epigenome evaluation will help facilitate the management of men with male factor infertility.
Association of pre-existing maternal cardiovascular diseases with neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring: a cohort study in Sweden and British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Hossin Muhammad Zakir , de la Cruz Lorena Fernández , McKay Kyla A , Oberlander Tim F , Sandström Anna , Razaz Neda
Published: December 2023

Background

We aimed to investigate the associations of pre-existing maternal cardiovascular disease (CVD) with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) in offspring.

Methods

This population-based cohort study included singletons live-born without major malformations in Sweden (n = 2 699 675) and British Columbia (BC), Canada (n = 887 582) during 1990–2019, with follow-up from age 1 year until the outcome, death, emigration or December 2020, whichever came first. The primary exposure was defined as a composite CVD diagnosed prior to conception: cerebrovascular disease, arrhythmia, heart failure, valvular and congenital heart diseases. The incidences of ADHD, ASD and ID, comparing offspring of mothers with versus without CVD, were calculated as adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs). These results were compared with models using paternal CVD as negative control exposure.

Results

Compared with offspring of mothers without CVD, offspring of mothers with CVD had 1.15-fold higher aHRs of ADHD [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10–1.20] and ASD (95% CI 1.07–1.22). No association was found between maternal CVD and ID. Stratification by maternal CVD subtypes showed increased hazards of ADHD for maternal heart failure (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.02–1.61), cerebrovascular disease (HR 1.20, 95% CI 1.08–1.32), congenital heart disease (HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.08–1.27), arrhythmia (HR 1.13, 95% CI 1.08–1.19) and valvular heart disease (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.00–1.24). Increased hazards of ASD were observed for maternal cerebrovascular disease (HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.04–1.46), congenital heart disease (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.01–1.33) and arrythmia (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01–1.21). Paternal CVD did not show associations with ADHD, ASD or ID, except for cerebrovascular disease which showed associations with ADHD and ASD.

Conclusions

In this large cohort study, pre-existing maternal CVD was associated with increased risk of ADHD and ASD in offspring.
NCCP collisions with para-H2: Accurate potential energy surface and quantum dynamics at interstellar temperatures
Authors: Ritika  , Dhilip Kumar T J
Published: December 2023

The effect of para-hydrogen (jp = 0) collisions on the rotational de-excitation transitions of molecule NCCP is investigated in this study. The scattering information is obtained by spherically averaging a four-dimensional potential energy surface (4DPES) over various H2 molecule orientations. The calculations used the CCSD(T)-F12a method and aug-cc-pVTZ basis set to generate a 4DPES for the NCCP–H2 van der Waals system. Within the NCCP–para-H2 4DPES, a minimum energy point of 191.82 cm−1 is attained at a distance of 3.6 Å from the centre of mass of H2 and NCCP. To compute cross-sectional data for NCCP interacting with para-H2 (jp = 0), close coupling calculations are employed, encompassing total energies up to 600 cm−1. The resulting rate coefficients [$k_{j{\rightarrow }j^{\prime }}(T$)] are calculated across a temperature range spanning from 5 K to 200 K. In accordance with propensity, even Δj = −2 transitions are highly preferred. Comparatively, the derived $k_{j{\rightarrow }j^{\prime }}(T$) for NCCP–H2 are determined to be 1.5–4.5 times of NCCP–He. This observation implies that relying on a scaling factor of 1.38 to extrapolate rate coefficients for H2 collisions from those of NCCP–He is not a reliable approach.
Swift/XRT observations of superorbital modulations in wind-fed supergiant X-ray binaries
Authors: Romano P , Bozzo E , Islam N , Corbet R H D
Published: December 2023

We present the first Swift/XRT long-term monitoring of 2S 0114+650, a wind-fed supergiant X-ray binary for which both orbital and superorbital periods are known (Porb ∼ 11.6 d and Psup ∼ 30.8 d). Our campaign, summing up to ∼79 ks, is the most intense and complete sampling of the X-ray light curve of this source with a sensitive pointed X-ray instrument, and covers 17 orbital, and 6 superorbital cycles. The combination of flexibility, sensitivity, and soft X-ray coverage of the X-ray telescope (XRT) allowed us to confirm previously reported spectral changes along the orbital cycle of the source and unveil the variability in its spectral parameters as a function of the superorbital phase. For completeness, we also report on a similar analysis carried out by exploiting XRT archival data on three additional wind-fed supergiant X-ray binaries IGR J16418−4532, IGR J16479−4514, and IGR J16493−4348. For these sources, the archival data provided coverage along several superorbital cycles but our analysis could not reveal any significant spectral variability.
Molecular Genetic Dissection of the Regulatory Network of Proton Motive Force in Chloroplasts
Authors: Shikanai Toshiharu
Published: December 2023

The proton motive force (pmf) generated across the thylakoid membrane rotates the Fo-ring of ATP synthase in chloroplasts. The pmf comprises two components: membrane potential (∆Ψ) and proton concentration gradient (∆pH). Acidification of the thylakoid lumen resulting from ∆pH downregulates electron transport in the cytochrome b6f complex. This process, known as photosynthetic control, is crucial for protecting photosystem I (PSI) from photodamage in response to fluctuating light. To optimize the balance between efficient photosynthesis and photoprotection, it is necessary to regulate pmf. Cyclic electron transport around PSI and pseudo-cyclic electron transport involving flavodiiron proteins contribute to the modulation of pmf magnitude. By manipulating the ratio between the two components of pmf, it is possible to modify the extent of photosynthetic control without affecting the pmf size. This adjustment can be achieved by regulating the movement of ions (such as K+ and Cl−) across the thylakoid membrane. Since ATP synthase is the primary consumer of pmf in chloroplasts, its activity must be precisely regulated to accommodate other mechanisms involved in pmf optimization. Although fragments of information about each regulatory process have been accumulated, a comprehensive understanding of their interactions is lacking. Here, I summarize current knowledge of the network for pmf regulation, mainly based on genetic studies.
Exploring Potential Surrogate Systems for Studying the Early Steps of the Sporisorium scitamineum Pathogenesis
Authors: Marrafon-Silva Mariana , Maia Thiago , Calderan-Rodrigues Maria Juliana , Strabello Mariana , Oliveira Lâina , Creste Silvana , Melotto Maeli , Monteiro-Vitorello Claudia Barros
Published: December 2023

Despite its global importance as a primary source of table sugar and bioethanol, sugarcane faces a significant threat to its production due to diseases. One of these diseases, sugarcane smut, involves the emergence of a whip-like structure from the host apical shoot. The slow onset of this pathogenesis is the most substantial challenge for researchers to investigate the molecular events leading to resistance or susceptibility. In this study, we explored the early interaction between the smut fungus Sporisorium scitamineum and foliar tissues of the model plants Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana benthamiana. Upon inoculation with the fungus, A. thaliana showed a compatible reaction, producing lesions during fungus colonization, whereas N. benthamiana showed signs of nonhost resistance. In addition, we propose a sugarcane detached leaf assay using plants cultivated in vitro to reveal sugarcane smut response outcomes. We used two sugarcane genotypes with known contrasting reactions to smut in the field. Although there is no evidence of sugarcane smut fungus infecting host leaves naturally, the sugarcane detached leaf assay enabled a rapid assessment of disease outcomes. Different symptoms in the detached leaves after inoculation distinguished smut-susceptible and smut-resistant sugarcane genotypes. Microscopic observations and gene expression analysis of S. scitamineum candidate effectors confirmed the fungal growth and its restriction on the compatible and incompatible interactions, respectively. These findings offer new prospects into the disease phenotyping of S. scitamineum, which could greatly expedite the comprehension of the initial stages of the pathogenesis and predict smut resistance in sugarcane genotypes.
Integrating network pharmacology and transcriptomic omics reveals that akebia saponin D attenuates neutrophil extracellular traps‐induced neuroinflammation via NTSR1/PKAc/PAD4 pathway after intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Gu Lingui , Ye Liguo , Chen Yihao , Deng Congcong , Zhang Xin , Chang Jianbo , Feng Ming , Wei Junji , Bao Xinjie , Wang Renzhi
Published: December 2023

Neutrophils and their production of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) significantly contribute to neuroinflammation and brain damage after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Although Akebia saponin D (ASD) demonstrates strong anti‐inflammatory activities and blood–brain barrier permeability, its role in regulating NETs formation and neuroinflammation following ICH is uncharted. Our research focused on unraveling the influence of ASD on neuroinflammation mediated by NETs and the mechanisms involved. We found that increased levels of peripheral blood neutrophils post‐ICH are correlated with worse prognostic outcomes. Through network pharmacology, we identified ASD as a promising therapeutic target for ICH. ASD administration significantly improved neurobehavioral performance and decreased NETs production in neutrophils. Furthermore, ASD was shown to upregulate the membrane protein NTSR1 and activate the cAMP signaling pathway, confirmed through transcriptome sequencing, western blot, and immunofluorescence. Interestingly, the NTSR1 inhibitor SR48692 significantly nullified ASD's anti‐NETs effects and dampened cAMP pathway activation. Mechanistically, suppression of PKAc via H89 negated ASD's anti‐NETs effects but did not affect NTSR1. Our study suggests that ASD may reduce NETs formation and neuroinflammation, potentially involving the NTSR1/PKAc/PAD4 pathway post‐ICH, underlining the potential of ASD in mitigating neuroinflammation through its anti‐NETs properties.
Caregiver Burden Associated with Pediatric Chronic Pain
Authors: Ngo Danny , Palmer Greta M. , Gorrie Andrew , Kenmuir Tracey , Crawford Matthew , Jaaniste Tiina
Published: December 2023

Objectives:

This retrospective, cross-sectional study investigated the nature and extent of burden experienced by caregivers of adolescents and children with chronic pain, and factors associated with increased caregiver burden.

Methods:

The Paediatric electronic Persistent Pain Outcomes Collaboration (PaedePPOC) database provided prospectively collected data from 1,929 families attending 9 pediatric chronic pain services across Australia and New Zealand. Data included demographic information, responses to child pain and functioning measures, caregiver work impairment and psychosocial functioning.

Results:

Caregivers of pediatric chronic pain patients reported work impairment associated with their child’s pain (mean 15%±SD 25 absenteeism; 38%±SD 29 productivity lost), significantly worse than published international population norms (large-scale community survey data), most other caregiver samples of adults and children with other chronic conditions, and adult samples with various pain conditions. Caregivers reported considerable burden in multiple psychosocial functioning domains, particularly leisure functioning, pain-related catastrophizing, and adverse parenting behaviors (with greater pain-related avoidance). Caregiver psychosocial burden was significantly associated with child psychosocial functioning (β=−0.308, P<0.01), school absenteeism (β=0.161, P<0.01), physical disability (β=0.096, P<0.05) and pain duration (β=0.084, P<0.05), but not pain intensity. Caregiver work productivity lost was significantly associated with school absenteeism (β=0.290, P<0.01), child physical disability (β=0.148, P<0.01), child healthcare utilization (β=0.118, P<0.05) and worst pain intensity (β=0.101, P<0.05).

Discussion:

These results highlight the significant and varied impacts experienced by caregivers of children with chronic pain. This work is novel in reporting significant work impairment and confirms psychosocial burden in a larger sample than previous studies.
United States expert panel consensus on uniform nomenclature and diagnosis for neuropathic pruritus
Authors: Kwatra Shawn G. , Elmariah Sarina , Chisolm Sarah , Mollanazar Nicholas , Fassett Marlys , Cole Emily F. , Chen Suephy , Lerner Ethan , Berger Timothy , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: December 2023

Importance:

Neuropathic pruritus is a debilitating condition lacking a uniform approach to nomenclature and diagnosis.

Objective:

A panel of dermatologist experts in pruritus was convened to develop definitions, diagnostic recommendations, and treatment guidelines for neuropathic pruritus.

Evidence review:

A roundtable discussion of 10 experts was conducted on November 3, 2021, via the Zoom platform. This study follows the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research reporting guidelines for qualitative studies. A systematic review of prior literature on the definition, scope, diagnostic, and treatment was performed, looking at sources of treatment from 1991 to 2021. Consensus was defined as >70% agreement for acceptance of a definition or recommendation. A draft of evidence was subjected to revision by all participants and was endorsed by all participants.

Findings:

The roundtable identified definitions for neuropathic pruritus, which included different forms of the condition based on cause and presentation such as brachioradial pruritus, notalgia paresthetica, and scalp pruritus. Diagnostic and treatment guidelines were also established. Limitations of this process included lack of randomized controlled studies. These recommendations are also based on expert consensus and must be further supported by evidence-based outcomes research.

Conclusions:

Neuropathic pruritus contains numerous subtypes, causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment modalities. The recommendations developed by this panel are meant to serve as shared nomenclature for future clinical studies.
Evaluating the Sick Quitting Hypothesis for Frailty Status and Reducing Alcohol Use Among People With HIV in a Longitudinal Clinical Cohort Study
Authors: Ruderman Stephanie A. , Drumright Lydia N. , Delaney Joseph A. C. , Webel Allison R. , Fitzpatrick Annette L. , Whitney Bridget M. , Nance Robin M. , Hahn Andrew W. , Ma Jimmy , Mixson L. Sarah , Eltonsy Sherif , Willig Amanda L. , Mayer Kenneth H. , Napravnik Sonia , Greene Meredith , McCaul Mary , Cachay Edward , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Austad Steven N. , Landay Alan , Saag Michael S. , Kitahata Mari M. , Lau Bryan , Lesko Catherine , Chander Geetanjali , Crane Heidi M. , Odden Michelle C.
Published: December 2023

“Sick quitting,” a phenomenon describing reductions in alcohol consumption following poor health, may explain observations that alcohol appears protective for frailty risk. We examined associations between frailty and reductions in drinking frequency among people with HIV (PWH). At six Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinical Systems (CNICS) sites between January 2012 and August 2021, we assessed whether frailty, measured through validated modified frailty phenotype, precedes reductions in drinking frequency. We associated time-updated frailty with quitting and reducing frequency of any drinking and heavy episodic drinking (HED), adjusted for demographic and clinical characteristics in Cox models. Among 5,654 PWH reporting drinking, 60% reported >monthly drinking and 18% reported ≥monthly HED. Over an average of 5.4 years, frail PWH had greater probabilities of quitting (HR: 1.56, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] [1.13–2.15]) and reducing (HR: 1.35, 95% CI [1.13–1.62]) drinking frequency, as well as reducing HED frequency (HR: 1.58, 95% CI [1.20–2.09]) versus robust PWH. Sick quitting likely confounds the association between alcohol use and frailty risk, requiring investigation for control.
Comparison of Patient’s Procedural Tolerance of EBUS-TBNA Performed Through Nasal Versus Oral Route
Authors: Mishra Mayank , Chowdhury Nilotpal , Krishnadas Padmanabhan Ajeesh , Banerjee Saikat , Kumar Saini Lokesh , Sharma Prakhar , Agrawal Shruti , Sindhwani Girish
Published: December 2023

Background:

Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a commonly performed procedure by the bronchoscopist for the evaluation of mediastinal lesions. However, evidence directly comparing the nasal and oral routes to guide the choice of an optimal insertion approach is scanty.

Methods:

In this prospective, parallel-group, open-label randomized clinical trial, adults posted for a linear EBUS-TBNA examination under conscious sedation were randomized to undergo the procedure via the nasal or oral route. The primary objective was to assess the equivalence of subject-rated tolerance of EBUS-TBNA procedure in the 2 groups. Key secondary objectives were to assess the equivalence of subject-rated overall experience, willingness for a repeat procedure, operator-rated subject’s tolerance, and operator-rated ease of performing the procedure.

Results:

One hundred and eighty subjects were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the nasal (n=98) or oral (n=82) group. Outcome measures were assessed by both per-protocol (PP) and intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. Subject-rated procedural tolerance, overall satisfaction and operator’s ease of performing the procedure were found to be equivalent in the 2 groups (P<0.05 in all cases for PP and ITT analysis). The operator-rated subject’s tolerance was, however, nonequivalent (P=0.0596, 0.1286 for PP and ITT, respectively). Subject’s willingness to undergo a repeat procedure was similar in both groups [90% CI of difference in proportions: (−0.023, 0.121) in PP and (−0.028, 0.115) in ITT analysis].

Conclusion:

Nasal route for EBUS-TBNA could be considered where it is feasible and preferable for the patient as well as the operator.
DNA replication in early mammalian embryos is patterned, predisposing lamina-associated regions to fragility
Authors: Xu Shuangyi , Wang Ning , Zuccaro Michael V. , Gerhardt Jeannine , Baslan Timour , Koren Amnon , Egli Dieter
Published: December 2023

DNA replication in differentiated cells follows a defined program, but when and how it is established during mammalian development is not known. Here we show using single-cell sequencing, that both bovine and mouse cleavage stage embryos progress through S-phase in a defined pattern. Late replicating regions are associated with the nuclear lamina from the first cell cycle after fertilization, and contain few active origins, and few but long genes. Chromosome breaks, which form spontaneously in bovine embryos at sites concordant with human embryos, preferentially locate to late replicating regions. In mice, late replicating regions show enhanced fragility due to a sparsity of dormant origins that can be activated under conditions of replication stress. This pattern predisposes regions with long neuronal genes to fragility and genetic change prior to segregation of soma and germ line. Our studies show that the formation of early and late replicating regions is among the first layers of epigenetic regulation established on the mammalian genome after fertilization.
CryoVirusDB: A Labeled Cryo-EM Image Dataset for AI-Driven Virus Particle Picking
Authors: Gyawali Rajan , Dhakal Ashwin , Wang Liguo , Cheng Jianlin
Published: December 2023

With the advancements in instrumentation, image processing algorithms, and computational capabilities, single-particle electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) has achieved nearly atomic resolution in determining the 3D structures of viruses. The virus structures play a crucial role in studying their biological function and advancing the development of antiviral vaccines and treatments. Despite the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) in general image processing, its development for identifying and extracting virus particles from cryo-EM micrographs (images) has been hindered by the lack of manually labelled high-quality datasets. To fill the gap, we introduce CryoVirusDB, a labeled dataset containing the coordinates of expert-picked virus particles in cryo-EM micrographs. CryoVirusDB comprises 9,941 micrographs of 9 different viruses along with the coordinates of 339,398 labeled virus particles. It can be used to train and test AI and machine learning (e.g., deep learning) methods to accurately identify virus particles in cryo-EM micrographs for building atomic 3D structural models for viruses.