bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Only bioactive forms of PTH (n-oxPTH and Met18(ox)-PTH) inhibit synthesis of sclerostin – evidence from in vitro and human studies
Authors: Li Mei , Hasan Ahmed A. , Chu Chang , Hocher Johann-Georg , Liu Yvonne , Zhang Xiaoli , Chen Xin , Yard Benito , Krämer Bernhard K. , Hocher Berthold
Published: February 2024

Sclerostin (SOST) is produced by osteocytes and is known as a negative regulator of bone homeostasis. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) regulates calcium, phosphate as well as vitamin D metabolism, and is a strong inhibitor of SOST synthesis in vitro and in vivo. PTH has two methionine amino acids (positions 8 and 18) which can be oxidized. PTH oxidized at Met18 (Met18(ox)-PTH) continues to be bioactive, whereas PTH oxidized at Met8 (Met8(ox)-PTH) or PTH oxidized at Met8 and Met18 (Met8, Met18(di-ox)-PTH) has minor bioactivity. How non-oxidized PTH (n-oxPTH) and oxidized forms of PTH act on sclerostin synthesis is unknown. The effects of n-oxPTH and oxidized forms of PTH on SOST gene expression were evaluated in UMR106 osteoblast-like cells. Moreover, we analyzed the relationship of SOST with n-oxPTH and all forms of oxPTH in 516 stable kidney transplant recipients using an assay system that can distinguish in clinical samples between n-oxPTH and the sum of all oxidized PTH forms (Met8(ox)-PTH, Met18(ox)-PTH, and Met8, Met18(di-ox)-PTH). We found that both n-oxPTH and Met18(ox)-PTH at doses of 1, 3, 20, and 30 nmol/L significantly inhibit SOST gene expression in vitro, whereas Met8(ox)-PTH and Met8, Met18(di-ox)-PTH only have a weak inhibitory effect on SOST gene expression. In the clinical cohort, multivariate linear regression showed that only n-oxPTH, but not intact PTH (iPTH) nor oxPTH, is independently associated with circulating SOST after adjusting for known confounding factors. In conclusion, only bioactive PTH forms such as n-oxPTH and Met18(ox)-PTH, inhibit SOST synthesis.
Regression model based properties prediction of A356 aluminum alloy rheocast using cooling slope technique
Authors: Ranjan Rishitosh , Surekha B. , Ghose Prakash , Mishra Prakash Chandra
Published: February 2024

The current research work involves experimental research of the Al-alloy rheocasting with enhanced microstructural and mechanical characteristics after using the Semi-Solid Metal (SSM) processing method, which is the cooling slope method. The studies here were carried out online with Central Composite Design (CCD) in order to create a non-linear regression model to represent the fabrication of A356 casting considering the Cooling Slope (CS) Technique. During the rheocasting, the angle as well as the length of the slope, along with nozzle height were taken as the input process parameters, whereas the microhardness, grain size, and sphericity of the sample were treated as the responses. The variation of such responses across the cross-section of the casting was measured at three different locations such as the center, mean, and outer radii. The non-linear regression techniques applied to the A356 sample were manufactured under two circumstances, such as ‘with’ and ‘without’ isothermal treatment. The regression models thus developed were validated by incorporating Analysis of the Variance (ANOVA). Further, the correctness of the regression representations was verified through ten experimental test samples. The percentage deviation of experimental outcomes from the model-predicted outputs was minimal. The developed mathematical models were representative of the physical process with reasonably good accuracy.
CACA guidelines for holistic integrative management of urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Chen Xusheng , Wahafu Wasilijiang , Shen Yijun , Fan Jinhai , Yao Xin
Published: February 2024

Bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) is the most common malignant tumor of the urinary system. It has the characteristics of high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. It is a malignant disease that threatens the safety of human life. The incidence rate has gradually increased in recent years. UC has the following characteristics: non-specific clinical symptoms, difficult preoperative qualitative diagnosis, unsatisfactory clinical treatment effect and poor prognosis. Therefore, a clear diagnosis plays a decisive role in the selection and formulation of surgical plans, and reasonable treatment is the key to improving the prognosis of patients and increasing their long-term survival rate. Based on the research evidence of diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment and the clinical experience of experts, the Cancer Nutrition Professional Committee of the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association formulated the "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma" for the reference of clinicians. It is hoped that this guideline can provide clinicians with the best and effective reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment, so as to achieve the best therapeutic effect for patients with UC in our country.
A mixed-methods needs assessment for an antimicrobial stewardship curriculum in pediatrics
Authors: Constantinescu Cora , Conly John , Vayalumkal Joseph , Gilfoyle Elaine , Oguaju Chinelo , Kassam Aliya
Published: February 2024

Objective:

Antimicrobial stewardship (AS) education initiatives for multidisciplinary teams are most successful when addressing psychosocial factors driving antimicrobial prescribing (AP) and when they address the needs of the team to allow for a tailored approach to their education.

Design:

We conducted a mixed-methods embedded study as a needs assessment, involving quantitative analysis of AS concerns observed by pharmacists through an audit while attending clinical team rounds, as well as qualitative semi-structured interviews based on the Theoretical Domain Framework (TDF) to identify psychosocial barriers and facilitators for antimicrobial prescribing for an inpatient general pediatric service. We analyzed the data using deductive and inductive methods by mapping the TDF to a model for social determinants of antimicrobial prescribing (SDAP) in pediatric inpatient health care teams.

Setting:

The Clinical Teaching Unit (CTU) and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), at a tertiary care pediatric hospital in Canada.

Participants:

Interviews (n = 23) with staff and resident physicians, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists.

Results:

Psychosocial facilitators and barriers for AS practice in the PICU and CTU which were identified included: collaboration, shared decision-making, locally accessible guidelines, and an overarching goal of doing right by the patient and feeling empowered as a prescriber. Some of the barriers identified included the norm of noninterference, professional comparisons, limited resources, feeling inadequately trained in AS, emotional prescribing, and a pejorative monitoring system.

Conclusions:

Our findings identified barriers and facilitators to AS decisions on pediatric inpatient teams as well as actionable needs in psychosocial-based AS education.
The making of the Philippines as a Neoliberal Nation-State: Dissecting the global-local nexus and their implications for social change
Authors: Lindio-McGovern Ligaya
Published: February 2024

The neoliberal globalization project of expanding and maintaining capitalism globally requires the shaping of neoliberal nation-states that will entrench its ideology, political structures, and practices. In that sense, the neoliberal nation-state provides an appropriate conceptual site for investigating the local-global nexus in the dynamics of global capitalism. Using the Philippines as an example, this paper investigates the various factors or dimensions in the making of the Philippines as a neoliberal nation-state from the colonial era to the supranational structures that exert external control on the Philippine political economy: the global power of transnational corporations, the IMF, American and Chinese imperialism, including the American military aid that supports militarization and counter-insurgency against movements that challenge the neoliberal agenda of the past and current regimes. In addition, this paper offers implications for policy changes and strategies for global resistance that anti-globalization movements can consider.
The role of the peer effect in forming pension expectations among the middle-aged: existence and mechanisms
Authors: Liu Zining , Lyu Youji , Yao Yi , Zheng Wei
Published: February 2024

Using the instrumental variable approach on nationally representative, individual-level data on middle-aged pension participants in China, this study quantifies the peer effect in the context of forming pension expectations. The study confirms the existence of the peer effect in forming pension expectations in the community. The probability of having optimistic pension expectations significantly increases by 0.309 percentage points if the proportion of optimists in the community increases by 1 percentage point. Moreover, the study explores the channels through which the peer effect operates and finds that the social learning channel dominates the social norms channel. The study also provides empirical evidence that village and township leaders as well as those with old pension program experience are opinion leaders in their peer group. Lastly, we find peer effects in other pension decisions, e.g., contribution size, and the contribution size increases by the proportion of optimists in the community. The study provides policy implications on ways to improve willingness to contribute to pension programs.
Authoritarianism, Trust in Media, and Tolerance Among the Youth
Authors: Mužík Michal , Šerek Jan
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Young people’s authoritarianism is usually associated with lower tolerance toward immigrants. This study tests several alternative pathways through which authoritarianism translates into intolerance. Besides perceived threat from immigration and political alienation, trust in alternative media, which often express anti-immigration sentiments, are considered as potential mediators. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze two-wave longitudinal questionnaire data from Czech adolescents and young adults (aged 15–25; N = 1,346). The results showed that authoritarianism longitudinally predicted perceived threat, which in turn mediated the negative effect of authoritarianism on tolerance. Authoritarianism also predicted higher trust in alternative media, but alternative media trust did not translate into young people’s tolerance. Despite their cross-sectional correlations, no longitudinal effects of authoritarianism on political alienation were found.
Tracing Subducted Carbonates in Earth's Mantle Using Zinc and Molybdenum Isotopes
Authors: Wang Jian , Tang Gong‐Jian , Tappe Sebastian , Li Jie , Zou Zongqi , Wang Qiang , Su Yu‐Ping , Zheng Jian‐Ping
Published: February 2024

Although carbonates are the primary form of carbon subducted into the mantle, their fate during recycling is debated. Here we report the first coupled high‐precision Zn and Mo isotope data for Cenozoic intraplate basalts from western China. The exceptionally high δ66Zn values (+0.39 to +0.50‰) of these lavas require involvement of recycled carbonates in the mantle source. Variable δ98Mo compositions (−0.39 to +0.27‰) are positively correlated with Mo/Ce, best interpreted as mixing between isotopically light Mo from dehydrated oceanic crust and heavy Mo from recycled carbonates, which is also supported by positive coupling between δ66Zn and δ98Mo. Modeling reveals that involvement of ≤5% carbonate‐bearing oceanic crust fully resolves the observed δ66Zn–δ98Mo mantle heterogeneity probed by intracontinental basalts. Our study demonstrates that combined δ66Zn–δ98Mo data sets for mantle‐derived magmas can track recycled surficial carbonates in Earth's interior, providing a powerful geochemical tool for deep carbon science.
Anzali Wetland, Iran’s “Ecological Gem,” May Dry Up by 2060
Authors: Dzombak Rebecca
Published: February 2024

More sustainable watershed management and agriculture are needed to avoid a desiccated fate.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of the silver pomfret Pampus argenteus
Authors: Wei Jiehong , Xiao Yongshuang , Liu Jing , Herrera-Ulloa Angel , Loh Kar-Hoe , Xu Kuidong
Published: February 2024

Pampus argenteus (Euphrasen, 1788) is one of the major fishery species in coastal China. Pampus argenteus has a highly specialized morphology, and its declining fishery resources have encouraged massive research efforts on its aquacultural biology. In this study, we reported the first high-quality chromosome-level genome of P. argenteus obtained by integrating Illumina, PacBio HiFi, and Hi-C sequencing techniques. The final size of the genome was 518.06 Mb, with contig and scaffold N50 values of 20.47 and 22.86 Mb, respectively. The sequences were anchored and oriented onto 24 pseudochromosomes based on Hi-C data corresponding to the 24-chromatid karyotype of P. argenteus. A colinear relationship was observed between the P. argenteus genome and that of a closely related species (Scomber japonicus). A total of 24,696 protein-coding genes were identified from the genome, 98.9% of which were complete BUSCOs. This report represents the first case of high-quality chromosome-level genome assembly for P. argenteus and can provide valuable information for future evolutionary, conservation, and aquacultural research.
Predictive potentials of glycosylation-related genes in glioma prognosis and their correlation with immune infiltration
Authors: Sun Yi-Fei , Zhang Lan-Chun , Niu Rui-Ze , Chen Li , Xia Qing-Jie , Xiong Liu-Lin , Wang Ting-Hua
Published: February 2024

Glycosylation is currently considered to be an important hallmark of cancer. However, the characterization of glycosylation-related gene sets has not been comprehensively analyzed in glioma, and the relationship between glycosylation-related genes and glioma prognosis has not been elucidated. Here, we firstly found that the glycosylation-related differentially expressed genes in glioma patients were engaged in biological functions related to glioma progression revealed by enrichment analysis. Then seven glycosylation genes (BGN, C1GALT1C1L, GALNT13, SDC1, SERPINA1, SPTBN5 and TUBA1C) associated with glioma prognosis were screened out by consensus clustering, principal component analysis, Lasso regression, and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis using the TCGA-GTEx database. A glycosylation-related prognostic signature was developed and validated using CGGA database data with significantly accurate prediction on glioma prognosis, which showed better capacity to predict the prognosis of glioma patients than clinicopathological factors do. GSEA enrichment analysis based on the risk score further revealed that patients in the high-risk group were involved in immune-related pathways such as cytokine signaling, inflammatory responses, and immune regulation, as well as glycan synthesis and metabolic function. Immuno-correlation analysis revealed that a variety of immune cell infiltrations, such as Macrophage, activated dendritic cell, Regulatory T cell (Treg), and Natural killer cell, were increased in the high-risk group. Moreover, functional experiments were performed to evaluate the roles of risk genes in the cell viability and cell number of glioma U87 and U251 cells, which demonstrated that silencing BGN, SDC1, SERPINA1, TUBA1C, C1GALT1C1L and SPTBN5 could inhibit the growth and viability of glioma cells. These findings strengthened the prognostic potentials of our predictive signature in glioma. In conclusion, this prognostic model composed of 7 glycosylation-related genes distinguishes well the high-risk glioma patients, which might potentially serve as caner biomarkers for disease diagnosis and treatment.
Optimizing protein delivery rate from silk fibroin hydrogel using silk fibroin-mimetic peptides conjugation
Authors: Promsuk Jaturong , Manissorn Juthatip , Laomeephol Chavee , Luckanagul Jittima Amie , Methachittipan Apipon , Tonsomboon Khaow , Jenjob Ratchapol , Yang Su-Geun , Thongnuek Peerapat , Wangkanont Kittikhun
Published: February 2024

Controlled release of proteins, such as growth factors, from biocompatible silk fibroin (SF) hydrogel is valuable for its use in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and other biological systems. To achieve this, we introduced silk fibroin-mimetic peptides (SFMPs) with the repeating unit (GAGAGS)n. Using green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a model protein, our results showed that SFMPs did not affect the GFP function when conjugated to it. The SFMP-GFP conjugates incorporated into SF hydrogel did not change the gelation time and allowed for controlled release of the GFP. By varying the length of SFMPs, we were able to modulate the release rate, with longer SFMPs resulting in a slower release, both in water at room temperature and PBS at 37 °C. Furthermore, the SF hydrogel with the SFMPs showed greater strength and stiffness. The increased β-sheet fraction of the SF hydrogel, as revealed by FTIR analysis, explained the gel properties and protein release behavior. Our results suggest that the SFMPs effectively control protein release from SF hydrogel, with the potential to enhance its mechanical stability. The ability to modulate release rates by varying the SFMP length will benefit personalized and controlled protein delivery in various systems.
Comparison of the formula accuracy for calculating multifocal intraocular lens power: a single center retrospective study in Korean patients
Authors: Kim Jinchul , Park Joonsung , Jo Yoonjung
Published: February 2024

This study evaluated the accuracy of newer formulas (Barrett Universal II, EVO 2.0, Kane, Hoffer QST, and PEARL-DGS) and the Haigis formula in Korean patients with the Alcon TFNT multifocal intraocular lens. In total, 3100 randomly selected eyes of 3100 patients were retrospectively reviewed. After constant optimization, the standard deviation (SD) of the prediction error was assessed for the entire group, and the root mean square error was compared for short and long axial length (AL) subgroup analysis. The Cooke-modified AL (CMAL) was experimentally applied to the Haigis formula. All the newer formulas performed well, but they did not significantly outperform the Haigis formula. In addition, all the newer formulas exhibited significant myopic outcomes (− 0.23 to − 0.29 diopters) in long eyes. Application of the CMAL to the Haigis formula with single constant optimization produced similar behavior and higher correlation with the newer formulas. The CMAL-applied triple-optimized Haigis formula yielded a substantially smaller SD, even superior to the Barrett and Hoffer QST formulas. The AL modification algorithms such as the CMAL used in newer formulas to cope with optical biometry’s overestimation of the AL in long eyes seemed to overcompensate, particularly in the long eyes of the East Asian population.
Kidney double positive T cells have distinct characteristics in normal and diseased kidneys
Authors: Noel Sanjeev , Newman-Rivera Andrea , Lee Kyungho , Gharaie Sepideh , Patel Shishir , Singla Nirmish , Rabb Hamid
Published: February 2024

Multiple types of T cells have been described and assigned pathophysiologic functions in the kidneys. However, the existence and functions of TCR+CD4+CD8+ (double positive; DP) T cells are understudied in normal and diseased murine and human kidneys. We studied kidney DPT cells in mice at baseline and after ischemia reperfusion (IR) and cisplatin injury. Additionally, effects of viral infection and gut microbiota were studied. Human kidneys from patients with renal cell carcinoma were evaluated. Our results demonstrate that DPT cells expressing CD4 and CD8 co-receptors constitute a minor T cell population in mouse kidneys. DPT cells had significant Ki67 and PD1 expression, effector/central memory phenotype, proinflammatory cytokine (IFNγ, TNFα and IL-17) and metabolic marker (GLUT1, HKII, CPT1a and pS6) expression at baseline. IR, cisplatin and viral infection elevated DPT cell proportions, and induced distinct functional and metabolic changes. scRNA-seq analysis showed increased expression of Klf2 and Ccr7 and enrichment of TNFα and oxidative phosphorylation related genes in DPT cells. DPT cells constituted a minor population in both normal and cancer portion of human kidneys. In conclusion, DPT cells constitute a small population of mouse and human kidney T cells with distinct inflammatory and metabolic profile at baseline and following kidney injury.
Ameliorative effect and mechanism of ursodeoxycholic acid on hydrogen peroxide-induced hepatocyte injury
Authors: Wang Xueqin , Liang Guangxi , Zhou Yang , Ni Banggao , Zhou Xiangyu
Published: February 2024

To assess the ameliorative effect of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced hepatocyte injury. In our in vivo experiments, we modelled hyperlipidemia in ApoE−/− mice subjected to a 3-month high-fat diet and found that HE staining of the liver showed severe liver injury and excessive H2O2 was detected in the serum. We modelled oxidative stress injury in L02 cells by H2O2 in vitro and analyzed the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and related genes. UDCA significantly improved the level of oxidative stress in H2O2-injured L02 cells (P < 0.05). In addition, UDCA improved the transcription levels of inflammation and oxidative stress-related genes (P < 0.05), showing anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects. UDCA has a protective effect on H2O2-damaged L02 cells, which lays a theoretical foundation for its application development.
Person identification with arrhythmic ECG signals using deep convolution neural network
Authors: Al-Jibreen Awabed , Al-Ahmadi Saad , Islam Saiful , Artoli Abdel Momin
Published: February 2024

Over the past decade, the use of biometrics in security systems and other applications has grown in popularity. ECG signals in particular are attracting increased attention due to their characteristics, which are required for a trustworthy identification system. The majority of ECG-based person identification systems are evaluated without considering the health-state of the individuals. Few person identification systems consider person-by-person health-state annotation. This paper proposes a person identification system considering the health-state annotated ECG signals where each person’s beats overlap among variant arrhythmia classes. This overlapping between the normal class and other arrhythmia classes grants the ability to isolate normal beats in the train set from the Arrhythmic beats in the test set. Therefore, this paper investigates the effect of arrhythmic heartbeats on biometric recognition. An effective lightweight CNN based on depth-wise separable convolution (DWSC) is proposed to enhance the performance of person identification for several common arrhythmia types using the MITBIH dataset. The proposed methodology has been tested on nine arrhythmia types and presents how different types of arrhythmia affect ECG-based biometric systems differently. The experimental results show excellent recognition performance (99.28%) on normal heartbeats and (93.81%) on arrhythmic heartbeats, outperforming other models in terms of mean accuracy.
Ten-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk trajectories among women veteran cancer patients
Authors: Whyne Erum Z. , Choi Sung-Hee , Dowell Jonathan E. , Conzen Suzanne D. , Jeon-Slaughter Haekyung
Published: February 2024

Despite a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in women cancer survivors than their male counterparts, importance of female sex has been underestimated due to under-representation of women in clinical research and male dominant CVD risk models. This study examined ten-year Atherosclerosis Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) risk trajectories in women veterans diagnosed with the ten most common cancers—bladder, breast, colorectal, endometrial/uterine/cervix, leukemia, liver, lung and bronchium, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, melanoma, and thyroid cancer—using United States (US) Veterans Affairs (VA) Electronic Health Records data. The study included 78,556 women veterans aged between 30 and 80 years from diverse backgrounds treated at VA hospitals with ≥2 complete outpatient visit records in the VA health care system between January 01, 2007 and December 31, 2017. A steep rise in ASCVD risk score trajectories post-cancer diagnosis was observed among women diagnosed with bladder, breast, liver, lung and thyroid cancer, melanoma, and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, compared to pre-cancer diagnosis periods, as well as significantly elevated pre-cancer ASCVD risk among all patients with cancer, other than thyroid cancer, compared to the no cancer group (p < 0.0001). ASCVD risk monitoring is highly recommended to reduce adverse cardiovascular events for women diagnosed with cancer, survivors, and for women at risk of future cancer incidences.
Mitigating stellar activity in radial velocity measurements through the spectral tracking of starspots
Authors: Dorval P. , Snellen I.
Published: February 2024

Context. Extreme-precision radial velocity observations used to search for low-mass extrasolar planets are hampered by astrophysical noise originating from stellar photospheres. Starspots are a particular nuisance when observing young and active stars. New algorithms are needed to overcome the stellar noise barrier in radial velocity measurements.

Aims. Using simulations of stellar spectra, we aim to test a technique, which we call GUSTS, that directly measures the contribution from starspots by using spectral features that are distinct from the rest of the stellar photosphere. Their contributions are expected to be anti-correlated with the starspot-induced radial velocity jitter of the star. This is reminiscent of high-dispersion observations of a transiting planet, which causes a Rossiter-McLaughlin effect but also leaves an atmospheric transmission signature that, in the case of spin-orbital alignment, is anti-correlated in radial velocity with the Rossiter-McLaughlin effect.

Methods. We simulated rotating stars with a single starspot to test the method. Synthetic spectral time series were averaged to obtain a virtual spot-free star spectrum. The individual spectra were subsequently convolved with a kernel, using single value decomposition, to match the average spectrum as closely as possible, after which this average spectrum was removed from the individual spectra. The residual spectra were subsequently searched for spot signatures using the template spot spectrum used to make the synthetic stars. We tested this method on a variety of spectra with different signal-to-noise ratios and investigated what data quality is needed to use this technique in practice.

Results. We demonstrate that the new GUSTS technique can work to reduce radial velocity jitter from starspots given a highly sampled, high S/N dataset. Though this alone cannot take radial velocity jitter down to the level to see Earth-like planets, it can be combined with other methods and can be used on starspot-dominated stars to detect smaller and farther planets. This technique could be useful for the future Terra Hunting Experiment, which will provide high S/N data with large samples.
Food security status in Cirebon Regency and how it could lead To sustainability
Authors: Nurjanah Irma , Lara Utama Gemilang
Published: February 2024

Cirebon Regency is in West Java Province and it’s one of the largest rice producer in Indonesia so that Cirebon Regency has a rice surplus. West Java is included as a region with access rice availability and the source of rice comes from within the West Java region itself, so there is minimal intervention from other regions in terms of meeting rice needs. In an effort to maintain rice resilience, strategies that can be implemented by West Java Province include maximizing the availability of rice in the region to meet local needs, distributing part of its production to surrounding deficit areas, and maintaining the productivity of rice fields. The results of the review literature, food security were not realized in Cirebon Regency because exports and imports of rice production were not properly recorded, distribution of rice production was not monitored, supply stability and price affordability were not controlled, access and information to markets are limited.. The regional government is implementing an agricultural intensification policy, especially in cultivating rice considering that the amount of agricultural land is decreasing, but behind the success there is the potential for climate change which could cause a decrease in productivity. In order to support sustainable food security in Cirebon Regency, it is necessary to analyzed the availability and distribution patterns of rice from upstream to downstream. This pattern is expected to answer the uncertainty of rice availability in Cirebon Regency and its relationship in supporting food sustainability in the future. The method that will be used to answer this problem is to carry out primary data analysis at the rice mill level in Cirebon Regency. Apart from that, the rate of land conversion as a factor influencing rice production is used as analysis material for recommendations for the sustainability of food availability in Cirebon Regency. Food security and sustainability efforts can be achieved with policy changes and transformation of food system governance.
Carbon stock of mangrove ecosystem and role blue economy in Pangandaran West Java
Authors: Oktaviani Dewi , Sunardi  , Sumiarsa Dadan
Published: February 2024

The mangrove ecosystem is a forest area that grows in coastal areas and is located at a distance of 200 meters from the shoreline. Mangroves are one of the blue-carbon ecosystems that can absorb CO2 through the process of photosynthesis and store carbon in the form of biomass in the soil. Mangroves are the second largest store of carbon stocks in waters after coral reefs. The availability of mangrove ecosystem carbon stock data is very important as a baseline in the greenhouse data inventory from blue carbon ecosystems. Blue carbon can be used as a reference for the welfare of coastal communities commonly called the blue economy, the blue economy focuses on generating economic growth from the fisheries and marine sector in Indonesia. Marine ecosystems are also impacted by climate change. Based on data from WWF's Living Blue Planet Report 2015, the number of marine populations decreased by 49% in the period 1970- 2012. The data is closely related to the sustainable economic growth of the marine fisheries sector, in this case, the mangrove ecosystem. Analysis of mangrove ecosystems using circle plots carried out measurements of tree diameter and length and identification of tree species according to predetermined subplots then analyzed the amount of carbon stock using the Allometric Equation Model. The result obtained is that 80% of mangrove habitat conditions are still very good so they can contribute to producing a total stored carbon stock (blue carbon) of 55.98 tons/ha this can be an ecosystem service for the surrounding community that can increase the blue economy in the Pangandaran area of West Java.
Estimation of carbon stock in mixed garden tree stands in Jatigede Subdistrict, Sumedang Regency using NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index)
Authors: Wishnuputri Sabilafaza , Withaningsih Susanti , Parikesit Parikesit
Published: February 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most significant greenhouse gas causing global warming. Mixed gardens are one type of artificial vegetation in Indonesia that helps to mitigate global warming. The construction of Jatigede Reservoir leads to a reduction in agricultural area and plant cover, affecting tree stands' ability to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere. Remote sensing, GIS, and NDVI analysis were used in research to estimate stored carbon stocks in Jatigede District, Sumedang Regency. These methods can improve the accuracy and efficiency of carbon stock estimates by providing preliminary data on the role that tree stands possess in absorbing carbon in the atmosphere. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the potential for carbon storage in mixed plantation tree stands as well as the amount of carbon stored in each village within Sumedang Regency's Jatigede District. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), a geographic information system, and non-destructive sampling were the quantitative methods used in the research. The research's findings indicated that the estimated carbon stock in Jatigede District, Sumedang Regency, are 55,680.17135 tons/ha. Of the 12 villages in Jatigede District, Karedok Village has the largest carbon stock, at 13,368.05 tons/ha, while Sukakersa Village has the smallest, at 156.90 tons/ha.
Health risk analysis of air pollutant exposure on children’s lung function in industrial area of Bandung Regency
Authors: Pratiwi Agustina Ircha Winda , Salami Indah Rachmatiah Siti , Roosmini Dwina
Published: February 2024

Industrial areas are considered to have a higher risk of air pollution impact, especially for children living close to the industry, as children breathe in more air per body weight unit than adults. This study aims to analyse the risk of exposure to ambient pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, NO2, CO, SO2, and O3) in children and factors that affect lung function disorders. This study was based in the Dayeuhkolot sub-district of Bandung Regency. A cross-sectional study was conducted on school-aged children (9-12 years old) living in an industrial close to Bandung Regency. Parents or guardians were asked to complete a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms to estimate the exposure to ambient air pollutants risk. Air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, NO2, CO, SO2, and O3) were measured using a portable Air Quality Monitoring System (AQMS), the lung function was measured by Spirometer MSA99, and non-cancer risk (HQ) was determined using the human health risk assessment model. The average results of ambient air pollutants measurement concentration are PM2.5 (45,59 ± 15,48 µg/m3), PM10 (75,56 ±25,93 µg/m3), SO2 (9,39 ± 6,27 µg/m3), CO (17,38±6,35 µg/m3), O3 (12,58 ± 3,12 µg/m3) and NO2 (15,86 ± 3,39 µg/m3). All pollutants concentrations are still below ambient air quality standards of PP NO.22/2021. With an average non-carcinogen Health Index (HI) of 0,48 ± 0,29. A lung function of total of 35 children were collected, with an average FVC: 1,59 L and FEV1.0: 1,42 L; there were 17 children with restrictive, 5 children with obstructive, and 1 combined lung disorder. The most significant factors of respiratory disorders were gender, height, respiratory complaint, and passive smoking symptoms (p < 0.05).
Harnessing cultural heritage knowledge for sustainable urban agriculture in Bandung
Authors: Saputra Aji , Abdoellah Oekan S. , Utama Gemilang Lara
Published: February 2024

Investigating the role of cultural heritage in the development of sustainable urban agriculture in Bandung, focusing on how heritage knowledge and practices can be integrated in efforts to improve food security and environmental sustainability in the city. The methodology used is a literature review to explore the complex relationship between cultural heritage and sustainable urban agriculture in Bandung. The results of this exploration indicate that the fusion of cultural heritage and sustainable urban agriculture in Bandung offers numerous advantages, including economic growth, food security, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation. However, challenges related to urbanization, changing consumer preferences, infrastructure, and climate change need to be addressed to realize the full potential of this approach. The implication of this approach is the development of a resilient and sustainable urban agriculture system in Bandung. By preserving and promoting cultural heritage, the city can enhance food security, stimulate economic growth, and safeguard its unique cultural heritage for future generations. The novelty of this article lies in its comprehensive integration of cultural heritage with modern sustainable agriculture practices to address contemporary urban challenges. It emphasizes the importance of harnessing the wisdom of the past to cultivate a sustainable future for Bandung.
Consumer-driven evaluation of Ecoplas as a sustainable flexible packaging in Jakarta
Authors: Sudrajat Azat , Withaningsih Susanti , Sunardi
Published: February 2024

400 million tons of plastic waste pollute the environment every year, and then 8 million tons of plastic waste have ended up in the ocean. Flexible plastic waste accounts for 76% of plastic waste entering the environment in Indonesia. Ecoplas have been developed in Jakarta, as starch-based biodegradable packaging. This study aims to 1) determine the ranking of Ecoplas compared to PP, r-PP, and Oxo-biodegradable; 2) Identify criteria that affect the path of Ecoplas packaging into sustainable packaging. Data collection was conducted through a questionnaire involving 96 consumers of flexible packaging in Jakarta, taken by convenience sampling. In this study, Ecoplas packaging was evaluated using PROMETHEE II to generate rankings, and Rainbow-PROMETHEE to review criteria affecting packaging sustainability. The results show that PP packaging (0.1168) remains the most preferred option for flexible packaging, followed by Oxo-biodegradable (0,0020), Ecoplas (-0,0113), and r-PP (-0,1076). Ecoplas have good criteria on willingness to purchase (Ec), consumers' environmental preferences (En), property preference (T1), packaging safety preference (T3), and consumer knowledge of post-consumer (S2). Aspects of criteria that need to be improved by Ecoplas i.e. awareness of alternative packaging usage (S1) and accessibility (S3 & S4), and packaging durability preference (S2). Ecoplas is promising to be an alternative to flexible packaging, as shown by the good evaluation and willingness of consumers to purchase it as eco-friendly packaging. However, Ecoplas packaging needs to improve the level of packaging properties and accessibility level for consumers to find it easily.
Health risk analysis of heavy metal exposure bonded in PM2.5 at industrial area in Bandung Regency
Authors: Putri Herwiandani Devita , Rachmatiah Siti Salami Indah , Roosmini Dwina
Published: February 2024

Heavy metal contents in PM2.5 particulate dust poses potential risk to the health of human beings. This study aims to measure PM2.5 dust concentrations and characterize heavy metals bound in PM2.5 to estimate health risks in both children and adult groups. PM2.5 dust was measured in Bandung Regency in industrial land uses, located in the Dayeuhkolot sub-district. Measurement of PM2.5 concentrations using a Low Volume Air Sampler (LVAS) with PTFE filters. Sample was collected for 7 days x 24 hours. Heavy metals in PM2.5 dust were characterized using ED-XRF. Calculation of non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks was only performed on metals classified as Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs). The average concentration of PM2.5 during the measurement period was 59,10±9,10 μg/m3, exceeding the daily ambient air quality standard based on PP No.22 of 2021 which is> 55μg/m3. The risk of non-carcinogenicity is expressed in Health Index (HI) values. The heavy metals considered in determining non-carcinogenic risk are As, Cd, Cr, Pb, Mn, Ni, Se, Fe, Zn, Si, and Sb as well as the crustal elements Si and Fe. Non-carcinogenic risk associated with exposure to heavy metals in PM2.5 showed HI<1 for both children and adults. This indicates that the exposure to heavy metals in PM2.5 around the Dayeuhkolot industrial area is at an acceptable risk level. HI value for heavy metal exposure for children was 0.34±0.17 and 0.42±0.28 for adults. In estimating the carcinogenic risk value, elements taken into account include As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb. Carcinogenic risk in both children and adults showed ECR>10-6 of 4.5×10-5 and 2.1×10-4, respectively. This indicates that there is an unsafe health risk that can potentially cause carcinogenic effects in the population around the Dayeuhkolot industrial area The results of this study can be used as a reference database for establishing policies related to air quality in Bandung Regency.
Ambient air pollution and visit of asthma patients: case study in DKI Jakarta 2017
Authors: Anggakusuma Rezky , Utama Gemilang Lara , Agustian Dwi , Raksanagara Ardini S. , Muhayatun  , Driejana Raden
Published: February 2024

Asthma is a worldwide disease that affects all races, ages, and genders. In 2017, asthma attacked 300 million people in the world. One risk factor for asthma is air pollution. The design of this study is a time-stratified case crossover, with secondary data types consisting of asthma visit data (ICD-10: J45) and pollutant data (PM10, O3, and NOx) in DKI Jakarta in 2017. The results from this study: Ozone exposure lag day 3 p = 0.04, OR = 1.0016 (95% CI 1,0001-1.003) and lag day 1 of NOx exposure p = 0.04, OR = 1.0050 (95% CI 1, 0003-1,010) which influences the visit of asthma patients in DKI Jakarta. It can be concluded that ozone and NOx are associated with asthma patient visits in DKI Jakarta, and this study on PM10 pollutants did not show any relationship with patient visits due to Asthma in DKI Jakarta.
Humanitarian Protections
Authors: Edelman R David
Published: February 2024

Chapter 7 begins by framing the kind of humanitarian protections that emerge from and give shape to this logic of restraint—those governing the conduct of warfare. Though the range of such protections is vast, two areas are of particular interest: rules governing lawful means and methods, and exceptional prohibitions on extremely problematic weaponry. With respect to the former, the substantial scholarly work on how the jus in bello regulates lawful cyber operations provides an opportunity for a distinct and focused inquiry: on what basis cyberattacks as defined herein may themselves be inherently unlawful. It discovers several key provisions of the jus in bello that in the abstract, fundamentally problematize the permissibility of large-scale cyberattacks. At a minimum, it suggests skepticism as to the usability of the tool, and perhaps a stronger basis for restraint. This result also provides a prism through which to understand one paradox of the present moment: a doctrine of normalization among Western states that has not been met by frequent and overt practice. It argues that there is a crucial missing piece to determining the impact of these conclusions: the basis that a customary (or even codified) prohibitive norm against cyberattacks might emerge.
Picard Groups of Some Quot Schemes
Authors: Gangopadhyay Chandranandan , Sebastian Ronnie
Published: February 2024

Let $C$ be a smooth projective curve over the field of complex numbers ${\mathbb{C}}$ of genus $g(C)>0$. Let $E$ be a locally free sheaf on $C$ of rank $r$ and degree $e$. Let $\mathcal{Q}:=\textrm{Quot}_{C/{\mathbb{C}}}(E,k,d)$ denote the Quot scheme of quotients of $E$ of rank $k$ and degree $d$. For $k>0$ and $d\gg 0$, we compute the Picard group of $\mathcal{Q}$.
Congenital granular cell tumor of a newborn: a case report of a rare entity
Authors: Hussein Al-janabi Moatasem , Ashkar Hala , Zainab Deema , Ghanem Mohammad Marah , Eid Raghad , Yakoub Hikmat , Al-Shehabi Zuheir
Published: February 2024

Introduction and importance:

A congenital granular cell tumor is an uncommon benign soft tissue tumor in newborns. It occurs mostly as a single tumor, that mainly affects the oral mucosa, especially the maxillary alveolar ridge. The tumor has a female predilection, with the female-to-male ratio being 10:1. A congenital granular cell tumor is believed to be of mesenchymal origin, and its exact etiology remains unclear.

Case presentation:

In this report, the authors present a case of a congenital granular cell tumor on the maxillary alveolar ridge in a 20-day-old female infant. Due to difficulty with breast-feeding, the surgical excision was performed under general anesthesia, and the intraoral mass was completely resected. A histopathological examination of the specimen led to the diagnosis of a congenital granular cell tumor.

Clinical discussion:

The congenital gingival granular cell tumor of the newborn is a rare benign tumor. Congenital gingival granular cell tumors are believed to be of mesenchymal origin, and their exact etiology remains unclear. These tumors are usually solitary and present as asymptomatic, firm, mobile, and subcutaneous masses. It is reported that these tumors are found three times more frequently in the maxillary anterior region than in the mandibular region.

Conclusion:

A congenital granular cell tumor is a rare benign lesion that is found exclusively in newborn infants. The clinical appearance of congenital granular cell tumors may be variable, making it difficult to distinguish them from other tumors. However, histopathological examination is the gold standard for diagnosis. Surgical excision is the most common and effective treatment option, with no recurrence rates.
Endoscopic gastric plication: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Laopeamthong Issaree , Kasetsermwiriya Wisit , Techapongsatorn Suphakarn , Tansawet Amarit
Published: February 2024

Background:

Bariatric surgery is associated with sustainable weight loss and lower mortality. Presently, these procedures can be performed endoscopically. Among endoscopic procedures, endoscopic gastric plication (EGP) is the most studied but has not yet been compared among its variations.

Method:

Studies were identified by searching database and reference lists. They would be eligible if they were conducted in adult patients with obesity, did not involve revision, compared EGP and controls, and reported at least 1-year weight loss results. The interventions of interest were endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), primary obesity surgery endoluminal (POSE), and transoral gastroplasty (TOGA). The primary outcome was the percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL). From network meta-analysis, treatment comparisons between each intervention were estimated. The interventions were further ranked in terms of maximizing weight loss or minimizing severe adverse events (SAEs).

Results:

Significant %EWLs from ESG and POSE versus control were observed at 12 months with pooled mean differences (MDs) and 95% CI of 44.7% (27.95%, 61.45%) and 16.29% (0.32%, 32.26%), respectively. The results also indicated that ESG was more efficacious than POSE [MD (95% CI): 28.41% (5.27%, 51.56%)] and TOGA [MD (95% CI): 36% (11.38%, 60.62%)]. For SAEs, ESG, POSE, and TOGA yielded relative risks (95% CI) of 2.81 (0.14, 56.85), 2.15 (0.13, 36.48), and 3.26 (0.07, 153.3), respectively, compared with the control.

Conclusions:

ESG was the best EGP, followed by POSE and TOGA. No significant increase in SAE was indicated from EGP. This network meta-analysis must be updated when more data are available.
Congenital lobar emphysema mis-interpreted as tension pneumothorax: a case report and literature review
Authors: Ngam Blessing N. , Shu Chinonso P. , Tharion John , Brown James A. , Kamel Armia S.F. , Nwegbu Chukwuemeka G.
Published: February 2024

Introduction and importance:

Congenital lobar emphysema (CLE) is a rare developmental lung anomaly that occasionally remains asymptomatic until adulthood. The right diagnosis is very crucial in its management.

Case presentation:

The authors report the case of a 29-year-old otherwise healthy, nonsmoker male. Referred after management of a presumptuous diagnosis of tension pneumothorax. His symptoms at initial presentation were a chronic cough and progressive exertional dyspnea. His chest radiography revealed absent lung markings in the right lung field with a trachea deviation to the left, interpreted as a tension pneumothorax. However, chest tube insertion worsened his dyspnea. A computed tomography scan, though initially interpreted as pneumothorax, showed findings consistent with CLE.

Discussion:

Adult CLE is a very rare presentation. A computed tomography scan is the imaging of choice. Even though watchful waiting is reasonable in selected patients, lobectomy remains the standard of care, preferably via video-assisted thoracic surgery.

Conclusion:

Failure to recognize CLE or other cystic lung lesions can lead to harmful procedures.