bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respons growth and production of shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) on Complementary Liquid Fertilizer (CLF) dosage and interval of application time
Authors: Idaryani  , Rauf Abdul Wahid , Basir Nappu M.
Published: July 2021

Shallot is one of the agricultural commodities whose production needs to be increased in the national food security program framework. One effort to increase yield is by conducting cultivation techniques including, fertilization. The study was objective at determining the dose of complementary liquid fertilizers (LCF) and interval application time and their interactions to increase the growth and yield of shallots. The study was conducted in Lampoko Village, Barebbo District, Bone Regency, in April-June 2018. The experiment used a factorial randomized block design with two factors. The first factor was the CLF dose at three levels (1,0, 2,0, and 3,0 ml L−1) and the second factor was an interval of application time at three levels (every 5,7, and 9 days). The results showed that the treatment of CLF dose significantly affected plant height and number of leaves. The treatment of the interval of application time significantly involves the number of bulbs, bulbs’ diameter, fresh bulbs weight, and dry bulbs weight. In general, the best growth and production of shallots were obtained in the treatment of LCF with a dose of 2,0 ml L−1at an interval of 5 days for once application.
Morphological characteristic of local clove varieties in East Halmahera
Authors: Cahyaningrum Hermawati , Lala Fredy , Polakitan Agus , Wahab Abdul
Published: July 2021

The distinctive characteristics of local clove plants could be evaluated through morphological observations. The research was assessed during June - October 2019 in Talaga Jaya, South Wasile, East Halmahera. The study was conducted by survey method with the age of observed plants were more than 10 years old and which species consist of 10 productive trees, selected randomly. The research using local clove with comparative superior varieties of Afo. Leaf, flower, fruit, seed, and the symptom of blister blight disease were observed at 1 m2 area on each tree. Form of the trees, stems, branches, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds were observed. The results showed that the characteristics morphology of local clove varieties was similar to Afo. The disease severity of blister blight in this study was mild with a 4,28% disease intensity. Morphological characteristics similar to Afo cloves and mild disease intensity of blister blight indicate that local clove varieties have the potential to be developed into new varieties.
Physical, chemical, stickiness and organoleptic characteristics of analog white sweet potato rice with the addition of pumpkin flours
Authors: Pramono Yoyok Budi , Nurwantoro  , Handayani Dian , Mulyani Sri , Hari Wibowo C.
Published: July 2021

This study aims to determine the effect of the addition of pumpkin flours on the process of making white sweet potato analog-based rice to color, water content, protein content, fat content, fiber content, ash content, carbohydrate content, total caloric value, extinction and organoleptic. The completely randomized design (CRD) with 5 treatments and 4 replications was used in as research design. The collected data were color testing, proximate content, total calories, and organoleptics. Proximate content analysis, total calories were explained descriptively and color analysis with Anova (Analysis of Variance) with a significant level of 5%, and if there was a significant effect, further tests would be carried out using the Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Organoleptic test parameters were analyzed using Kruskall-Wallis non parametric with a significance level of 5% and if there was an influence it would proceed with theMann-Whitney. The results showed that the addition of pumpkin flour had a significant effect (p <0.05) on increasing water content, ash content, fat content, protein content, fiber content, and decreased carbohydrate. Organoleptic test results showed that the addition of pumpkin flour significantly affected the aroma, taste, texture, adhesiveness and flatness of analog rice.
Implementation of carrageenan and xanthan gum in “raja” banana (Musa sapientum) for coating application
Authors: Al-Baarri A N , Widayat  , Legowo A M , Apsari N P I , Perdanawati D , Negara K R , Pangestika W , Lestari F P , Mawarid A A
Published: July 2021

“Raja” banana (Musa sapientum) is a type of banana that is often consumed in Indonesia. Raja bananas provides several benefits due to nutrients content, such as bioactive phenolics, antioxidants, potassium, vitamin C and also high carbohydrate content that changes color and texture during ripening. Preservation method was used to suppress this physical changes. This research was done to analyze color in “Raja” bananas and its shelf life after the treatment using iota carrageenan and xanthan gum as coating material. The four formulas of coating were applied in banana by full surface coating in banana and stored in room temperature. The color change and texture of banana peel were observed for 5 days. As result, the best coating composition was iota carrageenan since the coating using this material provided moist appearance during ripening process, indicating the inhibition in banana’s ripening. As conclusion, iota carrageenan may be applied as coating material in “Raja” banana that enable to suppress the physical changes on color and texture during ripening.
Total fungi profile in dried corn using traditional drying system in Kendal, Central Java Province, Indonesia
Authors: Al-Baarri A N , Hadipernata M , Somantri M , Munarso J , Rachmat R , Rahayu E , Pratiwi A F , Setyadi B , Mawarid A A , Pangestika W , Lestari F P
Published: July 2021

Harvesting method is the key factor to receive agriculture product with maximum value on its categories including microbiological content. Recent study exposed the total fungi as the effect from the drying technology in the Kendal, Central Java Province as traditional drying method that has been used in the most field. Harvesting period was done at 100 day of plantation with the following step: reducing the top leaf then followed by drying in the field for 7 days. The corn was obtained from 15 plants in 3 separated areas. The fresh corn was then transferred to the laboratory and analyzed for total fungi. As result, the total of fungi was able to be detected at amount of more than 1 Log CFU/ml. This finding was very important information for the distributor to choose best handling of storage. As conclusion, the total fungi of corn using traditional drying was able to be analyzed and exposed.
Price volatility of maize and animal protein commodities in Indonesia during the Covid-19 season
Authors: Baladina Nur , Sugiharto Arifin Noor , Anindita Ratya , Laili Fitrotul
Published: July 2021

The demand for corn in Indonesia is dominated as raw material for animal feed, so the high and low price of corn will have a big impact on the price of livestock products such as chicken and chicken eggs. The Covid-19 gives an impact on the uncertainty of food commodity prices. As we know, food price stability is one of the supports for maintaining a balance of production and consumer buying power. This study aims to analyze the price volatility of corn, chicken meat, and chicken eggs in Indonesia during the Covid-19 pandemic. The ARCH/GARCH model was used as an approach to analyzing volatility in the monthly prices of corn, chicken meat, and chicken eggs at the consumer level during the January 2011-June 2020 period. This research showed that the price of corn and chicken is categorized as high volatility category, while chicken eggs are a low volatility category with the form is asymmetric. It can be concluded that the price uncertainty faced by consumers in the future for corn and chicken meat will be bigger, while chicken eggs will be decreased. Therefore, it is expected that the government will make policies for maintaining the stability of food supply and prices.
Single and combined effects of formic acid and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on breast meat quality of the Indonesian indigenous crossbred chickens
Authors: Ukhro Lillah Zuhrotul , Sugiharto Sugiharto , Sarjana Teysar Adi , Yudiarti Turrini , Widiastuti Endang , Wahyuni Hanny Indrat , Legowo Anang Mohamad
Published: July 2021

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of formic acid and/or Saccharomyces cerevisiae on breast meat characteristics of the Indonesian indigenous crossbred chickens. A total of 200 day-old chicks were randomly distributed to four experimental groups (with five replications each), including T0 (chicks fed control diet), T1 (chicks fed diet supplemented with formic acid at 2g/kg), T2 (diet supplemented with S. cerevisiae at 3g/kg) and T3 (diet supplemented with formic acid at 2g/kg and S. cerevisiae at 3g/kg). At week 9, the chicks were slaughtered and from which the samples of breast meat were collected. Our results showed that total protein was higher (p < 0.05) in breast meat of T3 than that in other groups. The moisture content and water holding capacity were lower (p < 0.05) than that in other groups. The breast meat from T0 showed higher (p < 0.05) L* (lightness) values than other meats. The fat content, pH, a* (redness) and b* (yellowness) values of meats were not substantially affected by the treatments. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of a combined mixture of formic acid and Saccharomyces cerevisiae was effective in improving the breast meat quality of the Indonesian indigenous crossbred chickens.
Comparative Analysis for Grey Relation Estimation Models of Soil Organic Matter based on Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Li Xinhao , Li Jiangong
Published: July 2021

Rapid and accurate acquisition of farmland soil organic matter content is of great significance for the rapid monitoring soil fertility and the development of precision agriculture. Based on the hyperspectral data and organic matter content data of 74 soil samples in Zhangqiu District, Jinan City, Shandong Province, first transform soil spectral reflectance by the logarithm of the first-order differential, square, reciprocal, logarithm and square root, the estimation factors were selected according to the principle of maximum relation. Second, the hyperspectral estimation of soil organic matter was carried out by using six models such as grey close relation degree, and the estimation results of different methods were combined and analyzed. The results show that the combined grey relation model can effectively improve the estimation accuracy, and the average relative error of 16 test samples is 8.931%. Studies have shown that using the combined model of grey relation degree to estimate soil organic matter content with hyperspectral data is valid.
Brief design and numerical calculations for a secondary road
Authors: Liu Jianghao , Guo Baohua
Published: July 2021

Based on the traffic volume survey, the standard traffic volume conversion is considered, and then the road traffic volume is predicted. Through the calculation, the maximum annual average daily traffic volume in the design life is obtained, and then the road grade and design speed of the design road are determined. The Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) is converted into Directional Design-Hour Volume (DDHV), and then the number of lanes of the road is determined. Collect the terrain data of the route area through the field survey, and then carry on the interior design. The route schemes are compared and the optimal route scheme is selected. AUTOCAD and a professional road design software were used to assist in the design of road line selection, horizontal curve design, vertical section design, cross section design and drainage design. Through the calculation, the design parameters such as the maximum synthetic slope, the average slope and the minimum length of superelevation transition section are obtained. Afterwards, the parameters in horizontal curve, vertical curve and superelevation-widening were checked manually.
Study on influencing factors of atmospheric environmental risk of bulk liquid chemical leakage at wharf
Authors: Shou Youping , Zhao Junjie , Qian Lihong , Zhu Yuxin , Qiao Jianzhe , Wang Ning
Published: July 2021

In this study, 10% pipe diameter leakage was taken as a typical accident of liquid chemical leakage in bulk at wharf. The leakage rate and evaporation rate of 8 common chemicals were calculated using Bernoulli equation of fluid mechanics and mass evaporation rate. The evaporation rate and the concentration of toxic end point were compared. SLAB model was adopted to analyze the atmospheric environmental risk of chemical leakage under typical accident conditions. According to the calculation results, the atmospheric environmental risk under the scenario of 10% pipe diameter leakage accident was acceptable.
Review on the optimization of medical supplies distribution under major public health emergencies
Authors: Li Xiaohuan , Du Lijing
Published: July 2021

In recent years, frequent public health incidents have brought huge challenges to the economic development and emergency logistics systems of countries around the world. Facing the problems of unfair distribution of medical supplies and low distribution efficiency under major public health emergencies, this article systematically analyzes the literature on material distribution and distribution related to public health incidents in the past 20 years. The literature is reviewed from three aspects: the location and allocation of medical supplies distribution center, vehicle routing optimization, and location-routing optimization. Through the analysis of the existing research, several future research directions are proposed.
Brief Analysis on the Control and Management Measures of Urban Road Congestion
Authors: Sun Jiehao , Guo Baohua , Tian Shixuan , Guo Qingwen , Sun Chongxuan
Published: July 2021

With the rapid development of cities, traffic congestion appears more or less in large and small cities. With the continuous increase of motor vehicles, problems such as traffic congestion, energy shortage and environmental pollution have also appeared one after another. Urban traffic problems are getting worse, and urban congestion needs to be solved urgently. This article focuses on the optimization of urban land layout, expansion of urban transportation infrastructure construction, strict control of the total number of vehicles, priority development of public transportation, and vigorous development of intelligent transportation systems. Countermeasures and solutions are proposed in this paper to alleviate traffic congestion and to make effective suggestions.
Simulation, synthesis and band-gap engineering of 2nd group doped ZnO nanostructures
Authors: Sarwar Ghulam , Oad Ammar , Bibi Rida , Ashraf Muhammad Waseem , Tayyaba Shahzadi , Akhlaq Maham
Published: July 2021

Nano-materials are considered as a fundamental constituent in almost every field of medical science to engineering. However, the field of application of nano-material largely depends on its structural, chemical and optical properties of nano-material. Doping of nano-materials results in changes their particle size and band-gap which effects its applications. In this work, the effect of change in band-gap and particle size has been studied for 2nd group element doped ZnO (Zinc Oxide) nanostructures synthesized on AAO (Anode Aluminum Oxide) template having a pore size of 180.5 nm fabricated using chemical bath deposition and Anodization respectively. Fuzzy logic rule based system is used to study the effect of 2nd group element doping in ZnO nano-structure fabricated on AAO template with a fix pore size on the band-gap and output nanostructure. With addition of 2nd group element in ZnO nano-structure, a variation in rod length and band-gap has been observed. A decrease of rod length and an increase in band-gap have been observed by the addition of 2nd group including Be, Mg, Ca and Sr elements in ZnO nano-crystal. The fuzzy logic results are in accordance with the experimental system which shows the effectiveness of the simulations.
The laser-prepared SiC nanocoating: preparation, properties and high-temperature oxidation performance
Authors: Hu Xiaodong , Jiang Rongjie , Luo Fang , Lu Yuanhang , Wang Yuxin , He Zhen
Published: July 2021

In this study, SiC nanocoatings were prepared on graphite substrates via a laser treatment process. Different laser energy densities were employed in the laser treatment. The surface morphology and elemental composition were systematically studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the phase composition and coating microstructure. A high-temperature oxidation test was also conducted to determine their anti-oxidation performance. The results show that laser irradiation triggers the transformation from micro SiC particles into SiC nanocoating consisting of numerous polycrystalline SiC nanoparticles. At the laser energy density of 10.42 kJ cm−2, the prepared SiC nanocoating reveals the best oxidation resistance at a high-temperature environment in tested samples. In addition to its dense and crack-free surface morphology, the formation of SiO2 in the SiC nanocoating also helped to enhance the high-temperature oxidation resistance as a self-healing agent. Laser preparation of SiC nanocoating enhances the high-temperature oxidation resistance and protects the underneath graphite substrate, which serves as an efficient and effective manufacturing method for SiC protective coatings.
A novel double dielectric barrier discharge reactor with high field emission and secondary electron emission for toluene abatement
Authors: LI Shijie , YU Xin , DANG Xiaoqing , WANG Pengyong , MENG Xiangkang , ZHENG Huachun
Published: July 2021

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) has been extensively investigated in the fields of environment and energy, whereas its practical implementation is still limited due to its unsatisfactory energy efficiency. In order to improve the energy efficiency of DBD, a novel double dielectric barrier discharge (NDDBD) reactor with high field emission and secondary electron emission was developed and compared with traditional DDBD (TDDBD) configuration. Firstly, the discharge characteristics of the two DDBD reactors were analyzed. Compared to TDDBD, the NDDBD reactor exhibited much stronger discharge intensity, higher transferred charge, dissipated power and gas temperature due to the effective utilization of cathode field emission and secondary electron emission. Subsequently, toluene abatement performance of the two reactors was evaluated. The toluene decomposition efficiency and mineralization rate of NDDBD were much higher than that of TDDBD, which were 86.44%–100% versus 28.17%–80.48% and 17.16%–43.42% versus 7.17%–16.44% at 2.17–15.12 W and 1.24–4.90 W respectively. NDDBD also exhibited higher energy yield than TDDBD, whereas the overall energy constant

k

overall

of the two reactors were similar. Finally, plausible toluene decomposition pathway in TDDBD and NDDBD was suggested based on organic intermediates that generated from toluene degradation. The finding of this study is expected to provide reference for the design and optimization of DBD reactor for volatile organic compounds control and other applications.
New perspectives on propofol allergy
Authors: Johnson Jessica L , Hawthorne Ashley , Bounds Michael , Weldon David J
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Propofol is an intravenous sedative used in many patient populations and care settings. Although generally considered safe and effective, the drug has historically been avoided in patients with reported allergies to egg, soy, and/or peanut on the basis of the manufacturer’s prescribing information. Concerns exist for potential adverse events, increased medication costs, reduced efficacy, and risk of medication errors when using alternative agents. Here we present a critical examination of the literature concerning cross-reactivity of food allergies with propofol to provide evidence-based recommendations for the evaluation and management of potential allergic reactions.

Literature regarding the history of propofol allergy warnings and clinical trial data were assessed to provide an alternative perspective on avoidance of propofol in patients with food allergies. Suspected trigger molecules are discussed, with evaluation of the antigenic potential of excipient ingredients used in the manufacture of multiple propofol formulations. Evidence-based recommendations are provided for pharmacist-led screening of adult patients with reported food allergies to support selection of propofol or alternative therapy.

Conclusion

There is a lack of definitive evidence that propofol must be routinely avoided in patients with reported allergies to egg, soy, and/or peanut products. Data from clinical trials suggest that propofol is safe for patients with nonanaphylactic food allergies. Patients who do experience allergic reactions following administration of propofol should undergo further testing to definitively identify the specific trigger and prevent future unnecessary avoidance of preferred medication regimens. Pharmacists can play an important role in interviewing patients with reported food allergies to better determine the risk vs benefit of propofol avoidance.
Dust Exposures in Swedish Soft Tissue Paper Mills
Authors: Neitzel Richard L , Andersson Marianne , Lohman Susanna , Sällsten Gerd , Torén Kjell , Andersson Eva
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Paper dust has previously been linked to adverse health effects. However, a comprehensive dataset of paper dust exposures does not appear to have been published previously. Our study was intended to address this need by describing a large dataset of measurements made in Swedish soft tissue paper mills.

Methods

We compiled personal and area total dust exposure measurements collected from a range of operations by our research staff at four soft tissue paper mills in Sweden. We also compiled measurements made by the occupational health staff at each mill and the Swedish Work Environment Authority. We analyzed these measurements to describe patterns and trends in exposures and used mixed-effects regression models to identify measurement characteristics that predicted exposure levels.

Results

We compiled 1578 measurements from 1971 to 2009, of which 1026 (65%) were personal samples. Statistically significant differences were found between measurements made by research, mill, and Swedish Work Environment Authority staff, as well as between personal and area measurements. The measurement data suggest that, beginning in the 1980s, exposures declined at three of the four mills, but that overexposures were still common at the end of the period. Papermaking and converting operations had the highest observed dust exposures. One mill had significantly lower exposures than the others. Type of measurement (personal versus area) and source of measurement (research staff, company, or regulatory agency) were not significant predictors of measured total dust exposure after controlling for mill, operation, and time.

Conclusions

Our analysis of measured paper dust exposures may be useful for historical and contemporary exposure assessment in our own and other epidemiological studies. We have identified specific characteristics (i.e. papermaking operations and mill) and time trends that are important data features to consider, and documented continuing overexposure situations. Our results highlight the ongoing need for application of exposure controls to reduce paper dust exposures in the soft tissue paper industry.
One for all and all for one: phenotype assortment and reproductive success in masculinized females
Authors: Correa Loreto A , León Cecilia , Ramírez-Estrada Juan , Ly-Prieto Álvaro , Abades Sebastián , Hayes Loren D , Soto-Gamboa Mauricio , Ebensperger Luis A
Published: July 2021

Homophily by morphological and behavioral traits has been described in several species of vertebrates, but its functional consequences remain poorly studied. Homophily by plurally breeding females may improve direct fitness by enhancing reproductive success. Female mammals may exhibit phenotypical masculinization due to exposure to androgens during early development, a condition that is associated with maternal performance during subsequent breeding. Our goal was to assess whether female composition (in terms of masculinization) of plurally breeding groups influences female fitness in a natural population of degus (Octodon degus). We assessed if plurally breeding female degus assort themselves by anogenital distance (AGD), an accurate measure of masculinization level. We also quantified if homophily by AGD phenotype affects female reproductive success and the reproductive output of the group. Plurally breeding groups typically included similarly masculinized (i.e., long AGD) females or similarly feminized (short AGD) females, indicating a strong degree of homophily. Females weaned more offspring in plurally breeding groups with more masculinized females. Additionally, standardized variance in the number of offspring weaned decreased in plurally breeding groups with mostly masculinized females, indicating greater reproductive equality in these groups. We conclude that female degus organize into homophilic social groups of similar AGD, and that social groups of masculinized females exhibit a higher reproductive success.
Improved nutritional status may promote an “asset protection” reproductive strategy in male rock lizards
Authors: Rodríguez-Ruiz Gonzalo , Ortega Jesús , López Pilar , Salvador Alfredo , Martín José
Published: July 2021

Investing in the current reproduction requires diverting energy resources from other metabolic functions, which may compromise future reproduction and lifespan. To solve this trade-off, an individual may consider its labile state to decide how much to invest in current reproduction. We tested experimentally whether the “state quality” of male rock lizards influences their reproductive strategies. To improve the nutritional status of males before the mating season, we captured and supplemented experimental males (N = 20) with dietary vitamin D3 (an essential nutrient for lizards) and had a control group of males (N = 20). Then, we released all these males and females (N = 31) in a large semi-natural outdoor enclosure where lizards could interact and mate freely during the mating period. Activity levels of males did not vary between treatments, but supplemented males started fewer intrasexual agonistic interactions and made fewer mating advances to females. When the mating season ended, we incubated eggs laid by females to obtain the offspring and estimated the paternity of males using DNA microsatellites. Supplemented males sired fewer offspring than control males. These results suggest that vitamin D3 supplemented males used a low risk/less costly mating strategy to protect their assets (i.e., vitamin D reserves), but that still resulted in “some” current reproductive success, while likely increasing longevity and the expected future total reproductive success.
DeepDRIM: a deep neural network to reconstruct cell-type-specific gene regulatory network using single-cell RNA-seq data
Authors: Chen Jiaxing , Cheong ChinWang , Lan Liang , Zhou Xin , Liu Jiming , Lyu Aiping , Cheung William K , Zhang Lu
Published: July 2021

Single-cell RNA sequencing has enabled to capture the gene activities at single-cell resolution, thus allowing reconstruction of cell-type-specific gene regulatory networks (GRNs). The available algorithms for reconstructing GRNs are commonly designed for bulk RNA-seq data, and few of them are applicable to analyze scRNA-seq data by dealing with the dropout events and cellular heterogeneity. In this paper, we represent the joint gene expression distribution of a gene pair as an image and propose a novel supervised deep neural network called DeepDRIM which utilizes the image of the target TF-gene pair and the ones of the potential neighbors to reconstruct GRN from scRNA-seq data. Due to the consideration of TF-gene pair’s neighborhood context, DeepDRIM can effectively eliminate the false positives caused by transitive gene–gene interactions. We compared DeepDRIM with nine GRN reconstruction algorithms designed for either bulk or single-cell RNA-seq data. It achieves evidently better performance for the scRNA-seq data collected from eight cell lines. The simulated data show that DeepDRIM is robust to the dropout rate, the cell number and the size of the training data. We further applied DeepDRIM to the scRNA-seq gene expression of B cells from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of the patients with mild and severe coronavirus disease 2019. We focused on the cell-type-specific GRN alteration and observed targets of TFs that were differentially expressed between the two statuses to be enriched in lysosome, apoptosis, response to decreased oxygen level and microtubule, which had been proved to be associated with coronavirus infection.
An IRF1-dependent Pathway of TNFα-induced Shedding in Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Tan Gao , Huang Chongyang , Chen Jiaye , Chen Bingxia , Shi Yanqiang , Zhi Fachao
Published: July 2021

Background

Shedding of intestinal epithelial cells [IECs] is a potent cause of barrier loss which plays an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. TNFα can induce IEC shedding, but little is known about this process.

Methods

To investigate the molecular mechanism regulating IEC shedding, mice lacking interferon regulatory factor1 [IRF1], caspase-3, or gasdermin E [GSDME] and their control wild-type [WT] littermates were intravenously injected with tumour necrosis factor alpha [TNFα] to establish an IEC shedding model. A dual-luciferase reporter assay and a chromatin immunoprecipitation assay were used to determine the role of IRF1 in regulating caspase-3 expression.

Results

TNFα administration induced obvious IEC shedding in WT mice, but IRF1-/- and caspase-3-/-mice were completely protected from TNFα-induced IEC shedding. As a critical transcription factor, IRF1 was found to be required for caspase-3 expression in IECs by binding to IRF1-binding sites in the caspase-3 promoter. In WT mice, plasma membrane integrity was disrupted in shed IECs; these cells were swollen and contained GSDME-N terminal [NT] fragments which are responsible for the induction of pyroptosis. However, in GSDME-/- mice, plasma membrane integrity was not disrupted in shed IECs, which were not swollen and did not contain GSDME-NT, indicating that GSDME converted TNFα-induced IEC shedding into a pyroptotic cell death process. In addition, IRF1 deficiency resulted in decreases in mucosal inflammation and mucosal bacteria levels in TNFα-challenged colons.

Conclusions

IRF1 deficiency maintains intestinal barrier integrity by restricting TNFα-induced IEC shedding.
Post hoc validation of a tool that accurately predicts the outcome of endoscopic therapy in Bouveret syndrome
Authors: Swift Carla , Ong John , Zhou Man , Stokell Benjamin , Al-Naeeb Yasseen
Published: July 2021

Background

Bouveret syndrome is characterized by gallstone impaction in the upper gastrointestinal tract causing gastric outlet obstruction. In Bouveret syndrome, endoscopic gallstone removal can avert the need for surgery. However, in cases in which endoscopic therapy is unlikely to succeed, endoscopic attempts delay definitive treatment and compound patient risks. We previously developed a model that predicts endoscopic outcomes from data derived through a systematic review. This tool uses gallstone length, site of impaction, and the number of planned methods of lithotripsy to predict the likelihood of endoscopic success with an accuracy of 81.0%. This study aimed to evaluate our tool performance in an independent, non-training data set and assess endoscopic and surgical outcomes.

Methods

Systematic searches of the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were performed for articles published between 16 April 2018 and 1 June 2021. The data reported after our previous study were harvested and inputted into the tool to evaluate their ability to accurately predict outcomes when compared with actual outcomes.

Results

Newly collated data in fields of interest showed no significant statistical differences compared with previous training data sets. Endoscopic therapy was successful in 41.9% of cases. Gallstones of ≤4 cm had a higher chance of successful endoscopic intervention (odds ratio 6.7, 95% confidence interval 1.7–25.8, P < 0.01). Complications of surgery were reported in 29.5%; there was one fatality reported. Post hoc evaluation of our predictive tool demonstrated an AUROC score of 0.80.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated in an independent data set that the tool can be used to accurately predict outcomes of endoscopic therapy. Patients in whom endoscopic therapy is most likely to fail should be offered an early surgical opinion.
Small-scale lithospheric heterogeneity characterization using Bayesian inference and energy flux models
Authors: González Álvarez Itahisa N , Rost Sebastian , Nowacki Andy , Selby Neil D
Published: July 2021

Observations from different disciplines have shown that our planet is highly heterogeneous at multiple scale lengths. Still, many seismological Earth models tend not to include any small-scale heterogeneity or lateral velocity variations, which can affect measurements and predictions based on these homogeneous models. In this study, we describe the lithospheric small-scale isotropic heterogeneity structure in terms of the intrinsic, diffusion and scattering quality factors, as well as an autocorrelation function, associated with a characteristic scale length (a) and RMS fractional velocity fluctuations (ε). To obtain this characterization, we combined a single-layer and a multilayer energy flux models with a new Bayesian inference algorithm. Our synthetic tests show that this technique can successfully retrieve the input parameter values for 1- or 2-layer models and that our Bayesian algorithm can resolve whether the data can be fitted by a single set of parameters or a range of models is required instead, even for very complex posterior probability distributions. We applied this technique to three seismic arrays in Australia: Alice Springs array (ASAR), Warramunga Array (WRA) and Pilbara Seismic Array (PSAR). Our single-layer model results suggest intrinsic and diffusion attenuation are strongest for ASAR, while scattering and total attenuation are similarly strong for ASAR and WRA. All quality factors take higher values for PSAR than for the other two arrays, implying that the structure beneath this array is less attenuating and heterogeneous than for ASAR or WRA. The multilayer model results show the crust is more heterogeneous than the lithospheric mantle for all arrays. Crustal correlation lengths and RMS velocity fluctuations for these arrays range from ∼0.2 to 1.5 km and ∼2.3 to 3.9 per cent, respectively. Parameter values for the upper mantle are not unique, with combinations of low values of the parameters (a < 2 km and ε < ∼2.5 per cent) being as likely as those with high correlation length and velocity variations (a > 5 km and ε > ∼2.5 per cent, respectively). We attribute the similarities in the attenuation and heterogeneity structure beneath ASAR and WRA to their location on the proterozoic North Australian Craton, as opposed to PSAR, which lies on the archaean West Australian Craton. Differences in the small-scale structure beneath ASAR and WRA can be ascribed to the different tectonic histories of these two regions of the same craton. Overall, our results highlight the suitability of the combination of an energy flux model and a Bayesian inference algorithm for future scattering and small-scale heterogeneity studies, since our approach allows us to obtain and compare the different quality factors, while also giving us detailed information about the trade-offs and uncertainties in the determination of the scattering parameters.
Nested regional-global seismic tomography and precise earthquake relocation along the Hikurangi subduction zone, New Zealand
Authors: Aziz Zanjani Farzaneh , Lin Guoqing , Thurber Clifford H
Published: July 2021

Seismic and geodetic examinations of the Hikurangi subduction zone (HSZ) indicate a remarkably diverse and complex system. Here, we investigate the 3-D P-wave velocity structure of the HSZ by applying an iterative, nested regional-global tomographic algorithm. The new model reveals enhanced details of seismic variations along the HSZ. We also relocate over 57 000 earthquakes using this newly developed 3-D model and then further improve the relative locations for 75 per cent of the seismicity using waveform cross-correlation. Double seismic zone characteristics, including occurrence, depth distribution and thickness change along the strike of the HSZ. An aseismic but fast Vp zone separates the upper and lower planes of seismicity in the southern and northern North Island. The upper plane of seismicity correlates with low Vp zones below the slab interface, indicating fluid-rich channels formed on top and/or within a dehydrated crust. A broad low Vp zone is resolved in the lower part of the subducting slab that could indicate hydrous mineral breakdown in the slab mantle. In the northern North Island and southern North Island, the lower plane of seismicity mostly correlates with the top of these low Vp zones. The comparison between the thermal model and the lower plane of seismicity in the northern North Island supports dehydration in the lower part of the slab. The mantle wedge of the Taupo volcanic zone (TVZ) is characterized by a low velocity zone underlying the volcanic front (fluid-driven partial melting), a fast velocity anomaly in the forearc mantle (a stagnant cold nose) and an underlying low velocity zone within the slab (fluids from dehydration). These arc-related anomalies are the strongest beneath the central TVZ with known extensive volcanism. The shallow seismicity (<40 km depth) correlates with geological terranes in the overlying plate. The aseismic impermeable terranes, such as the Rakaia terrane, may affect the fluid transport at the plate interface and seismicity in the overlying plate, which is consistent with previous studies. The deep slow slip events (25–60 km depths) mapped in the Kaimanawa, Manawatu and Kapiti regions coincide with low Vp anomalies. These new insights on the structure along the HSZ highlight the change in the locus of seismicity and dehydration at depth that is governed by significant variations in spatial and probably temporal attributes of subduction zone processes.
Improving accuracy of American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status using audit and feedback and artificial intelligence: a time-series analysis
Authors: Drzymalski Dan M , Seth Sonika , Johnson Jeffrey R , Trzcinka Agnieszka
Published: July 2021

Background

While the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status (PS) is used to adjust for greater mortality risk with higher ASA PS classification, inaccurate classification can lead to an inaccurate comparison of institutions.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of audit and feedback with a rule-based artificial intelligence algorithm on the accuracy of ASA PS classification.

Methods

We reviewed 78 121 anesthetic records from 1 January 2017 to 19 February 2020. The first intervention entailed audit and feedback emphasizing accurately documenting ASA PS classification using body mass index (BMI), while the second intervention consisted of implementing a rule-based artificial intelligence algorithm. If a patient with a BMI ≥40 kg/m2 had a documented ASA PS classification of 1 or 2, the provider was alerted to change the ASA PS classification to 3 or above. The primary outcome was the overall proportion of patients with inaccurate ASA PS classification based on BMI per month. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of patients with a BMI ≥40 or a BMI 30–39.9 who had inaccurate ASA PS classification and the proportion of patients documented as having ASA 3–5. Data were analyzed using interrupted time-series analysis.

Results

For the primary outcome, the slope for ASA PS classification inaccurately incorporating BMI was unchanging before the first intervention (parameter coefficient 0.002, 95% CI −0.034 to 0.038; P = 0.911). Following the first intervention, there was an immediate level change (parameter coefficient −0.821, 95% CI −1.236 to −0.0406; P < 0.001) without significant change in slope (parameter coefficient −0.048, 95% CI −0.100 to 0.004; P = 0.067). The post-intervention slope was negative (parameter coefficient −0.046, 95% CI −0.083 to −0.009; P = 0.017). Following the second intervention, there was no level change (parameter coefficient 0.203, 95% CI −0.380 to 0.463; P = 0.839) and no significant change in slope (parameter coefficient 0.013, 95% CI −0.043 to 0.043; P = 0.641). The post-intervention slope was not significant (parameter coefficient −0.034, 95% CI −0.078 to 0.010; P = 0.121). The proportion of patients whose ASA PS classification inaccurately incorporated BMI at the first and final timepoint of the study was 2.6% and 0.8%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our quality improvement efforts successfully modified clinician behavior to accurately incorporate BMI into the ASA PS classification. By combining audit and feedback methodology with a rule-based artificial intelligence algorithm, we created a process that resulted in immediate and sustained effects. Improving ASA PS classification accuracy is important because it affects quality metrics, research design, resource allocation and workflow processes.
A Just Economy? Unifying and Dividing the Islamic Intellectual Field in Neoliberal Turkey
Authors: Zencirci Gizem
Published: July 2021

In this paper, I argue that the relationship between religion and neoliberalism in non-Western contexts cannot be understood without paying attention to the contested, dynamic, and fluid production of local knowledge. In order to substantiate this argument, I trace debates about development, equality, class, labor, and wealth that circulate in the Islamic intellectual field in Turkey. Specifically, I analyze the viewpoints of three contemporary Turkish Muslim intellectuals who make different claims about Islam’s economic teachings. Mustafa Özel proposes “entrepreneurial Islam” as an alternative to state-regulated capitalism, Ihsan Eliaçık argues that “social Islam” ordains Muslims to redistribute wealth, whereas Lütfi Bergen suggests that “pastoral Islam” precedes Western capitalist modernity. I find that the disputed notion of a just economy is what unifies and divides this intellectual field as a constitutive question that is disagreed upon. This article thus calls for a recognition of the contingency, multiplicity, and indeterminacy of Islamic-neoliberal assemblages.
Computational analysis of the nonlinear vibrational behavior of perforated plates with initial imperfection using NURBS-based isogeometric approach
Authors: VeisiAra Abdollah , Mohammad-Sedighi Hamid , Reza Arash
Published: July 2021

In this article, an isogeometric analysis through NURBS basis functions is presented to study the nonlinear vibrational behavior of perforated plates with initial imperfection. In this regard, the governing equations of plate dynamics, as well as the displacement–strain relations, are derived using the Mindlin–Reissner plate theory by considering von Karman nonlinearity. The geometry of the structure is formed by selecting the order of NURBS basis functions and the number of control points according to the physics of the problem. Since similar basis functions are utilized to estimate the accurate geometry and displacement field of the domain, the order of the basic functions and the number of control points are optimized for the proper approximation of the unknown field variables. By utilizing the energy approach and Hamilton principle and discretizing the equations of motion, the vibrational response of the perforated imperfect plate is extracted through an eigenvalue problem. The results of linear vibrations, geometrically nonlinear vibrations, and nonlinear vibrations of imperfect plates are separately validated by considering the previously reported findings, which shows a satisfactory agreement. Thereafter, a coefficient of the first mode shape is considered as the initial imperfection and the vibrational analysis is reexamined. Furthermore, the nonlinear vibrations of the perforated plate with initial imperfection are analysed using an iterative approach. The effects of the perforated hole, initial imperfection, and geometric nonlinearity are also addressed and discussed.
Breast Cancer Screening Among Childhood Cancer Survivors Treated Without Chest Radiation: Clinical Benefits and Cost-Effectiveness
Authors: Yeh Jennifer M , Lowry Kathryn P , Schechter Clyde B , Diller Lisa R , O’Brien Grace , Alagoz Oguzhan , Armstrong Gregory T , Hampton John M , Hudson Melissa M , Leisenring Wendy , Liu Qi , Mandelblatt Jeanne S , Miglioretti Diana L , Moskowitz Chaya S , Nathan Paul C , Neglia Joseph P , Oeffinger Kevin C , Trentham-Dietz Amy , Stout Natasha K
Published: July 2021

Background

Early initiation of breast cancer screening is recommended for high-risk women, including survivors of childhood cancer treated with chest radiation. Recent studies suggest that female survivors of childhood leukemia or sarcoma treated without chest radiation are also at elevated early onset breast cancer risk. However, the potential clinical benefits and cost-effectiveness of early breast cancer screening among these women are uncertain.

Methods

Using data from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, we adapted 2 Cancer Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network simulation models to reflect the elevated risks of breast cancer and competing mortality among leukemia and sarcoma survivors. Costs and utility weights were based on published studies and databases. Outcomes included breast cancer deaths averted, false-positive screening results, benign biopsies, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios.

Results

In the absence of screening, the lifetime risk of dying from breast cancer among survivors was 6.8% to 7.0% across models. Early initiation of annual mammography with breast magnetic resonance imaging screening between ages 25 and 40 years would avert 52.6% to 64.3% of breast cancer deaths. When costs and quality-of-life impacts were considered, screening starting at age 40 years was the only strategy with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio below the $100 000 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained cost-effectiveness threshold ($27 680 to $44 380 per QALY gained across models).

Conclusions

Among survivors of childhood leukemia or sarcoma, early initiation of breast cancer screening at age 40 years may reduce breast cancer deaths by half and is cost-effective. These findings could help inform screening guidelines for survivors treated without chest radiation.
Giant sliding inguinal hernia requiring intraoperative aspiration of fluid: a case report and literature review
Authors: Davis Tyler , Vivens Mica , Barghuthi Lutfi , Ismael Hishaam
Published: July 2021

Giant inguinal hernias are defined as inguinal hernias that extend below the midpoint of the inner thigh when the patient is in the standing position or an anteroposterior diameter of at least 30 cm or a laterolateral diameter of ~50 cm with non-reducibility for >10 years. This article presents a 39-year-old male with a five-year history of a giant left inguinal hernia that was treated with left inguinal hernia repair with mesh, orchiectomy, complicated scrotoplasty, intraoperative ultrasound and aspiration of 3.9 L of fluid from the hernia sac. Surgical repair of giant inguinal hernias can be challenging and is associated with a variety of complications. Various modalities have been described to assist in hernia reduction including debulking, or, as in this case, aspiration of the hernia sac and a preperitoneal incision. Although the Lichtenstein tension free repair is commonly used, no standard approach has been accepted.