bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Study on the Influence of Filler Material to the Spiciness Level of Chili Block
Authors: Putri A R , Dewi K H , Marniza
Published: July 2022

This study aims to obtain the effect of type and ratio of fillers to physical, chemical and organoleptic properties of chili blocks. The study used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), which consisted of 2 factors: the type of filler material (papaya and conjoined chayote) and the ratio, namely 1: 1, 1: 2, 1: 3 (between chili: filler material). So that six treatment combinations are obtained, each of which is repeated with 3 repetitions. The parameters observed were physical properties (water content, colour using Munshell Colour for Plants Tissue, texture), chemical properties (pH, and capsaicin content) and organoleptic properties (colour, texture, odour, and spiciness). Data were analysed using ANOVA. If significantly different, continued with the DMRT test (Duncan Multiple Range Test). The results showed there was no significant difference between filler type and ratio, to physical properties (water content, texture and colour of block chili) and chemical properties (pH and capsaicin content of block chili). Also, there is no significant difference between filler type and ratio on organoleptic properties of colour and odour but had a significant effect on texture and spicy chili blocks.
Determination of Maltodextrin Concentration in Red Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) Instant Drink
Authors: Yanti H F , Violalita F , Evawati  , Syahrul S , Fahmy K
Published: July 2022

Maltodextrin is a food additive produced from starch which is hydrolyzed by the addition of acids or enzymes. Maltodextrin is often added to the production of instant drinks. The use of maltodextrin in instant drinks serves as a filler material that can inhibit material damage due to the drying process, coat flavor components, accelerate the drying process, and increase solubility. The purpose of this study was to determine the appropriate concentration of maltodextrin in the manufacture of red ginger and cinnamon instant drinks. The research method used was a completely randomized design (RAL) mono factorial used a concentration of maltodextrin 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%. An instant drink produced were analyzed for moisture content, ash content, sugar content, total phenol-antioxidant activity, and sensory properties. The results obtained were analyzed using the RStudio program and further tested using DMRT. The results of the analysis showed that the water content of herbal instant drinks ranged from 0.81 – 1.33%, ash content 0.16 – 0.54%, reducing sugar content 0.16 – 0.54%, and total phenol 21.83 – 31.17 g/mg GAE. Sensory analysis showed that the preferred color of herbal instant drink was the use of 10 and 15% maltodextrin, while the most preferred aroma and taste is the use of 15% maltodextrin.
Preliminary Identification of New Fungal Pathogen Isolated from Black Pepper Disease
Authors: Zakaria S N S , Noor N M , Ramli N W Binti , Anuar I S M , Wahab M Z Ab
Published: July 2022

Black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) is one of important spice crop that has been grown and traded globally. In this few years, black pepper industry had recorded unsatisfactory yield production as its has been hampered with disease attacks. Almost all parts of the plant are susceptible to disease infections particularly disease that has been caused by fungal pathogens. This present study aims to isolate and identify fungal pathogen associated with black pepper disease in peninsular Malaysia. In one of sampling location in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, two fungus were isolated from symptomatic leaves and berries of black peppers. The leaves produced yellowish to brownish lesions while the berries produce blackish lesions. Morphological identification based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics showed that the isolates produced similar characteristics with Fusarium and Diaporthe species. The pathogenicity was confirmed by an artificial inoculation test on healthy black pepper plants in which similar simptoms were observed on inoculated plant. Molecular identification based on DNA sequence analysis of the Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS1 and ITS2) regions was conducted to confirm the identity of both isolates. The sequences were compared with other sequences from the NCBI GenBank database and the blast results indicate 99% percent similarity with Diaporthe phaseolorum and Fusarium polyphialidicum species. Constructed Phylogenetic tree also showed that the isolates were grouped together with the reference strain of Diaporthe phaseolorum and Fusarium polyphialidicum species. This is the first report of the occurrence of both species as pathogen of black pepper plant in peninsular Malaysia.
Microbial activities and minimum liquid smoke killing concentration made of cacao pod toward Lasiodiplodia theobromae growth
Authors: Budaraga I K , Putra D P , Yanti Y
Published: July 2022

Cocoa has become the leading export commodity from the plantation sector. The Increasing of cocoa production results in the increase of the cocoa shell waste amount. Cocoa shell utilization is still very limited. The benefit of cocoa shell is that this waste contains secondary metabolites that can be used as antimicrobial agents. One of the products that can be produced from cocoa shell waste is liquid smoke. This study was focused in determining the antimicrobial activity and the minimum kill concentration from liquid smoke on the growth of the Lasiodiplodia theobremae fungi from different amounts of raw materials moisture content and pyrolysis temperatures. This research indicated that cocoa shells liquid smoke from different amounts of water content and temperature of pyrolysis had antimicrobial activity and the application of different concentrations in the minimum kill concentration test can inhibit Lasiodiplodia theobremae fungi growth. Liquid smoke antimicrobial activity at 10% water content and temperatures at 200, 300, and 400°C obtained inhibition zone values of 10.40; 16.75 and 17.80 mm. At the 15% moisture content and temperatures of 200, 300and 400°C, the inhibition zone value is 10.15; 15.70 and 16.15 mm. At 20% water content and temperatures of 200, 300and 400°C, it obtained inhibition zone values of 4.25; 11,45 and 12.30 mm. At 25% water content and temperatures of 200, 300, and 400°C, it obtained inhibition zone values of 3.70; 7.65 and 8.65 mm. The value of minimum kill concentration and minimum inhibitory concentration of liquid smoke at 10, 15, 20, and 25 % water content at temperatures of 200, 300, and 400°C obtained the values of 1% and 9%.
Exposure of Smart Farming Implementation Towards Farmers in Alor Setar: A Case Study
Authors: Zamri N N , Mustaffha S
Published: July 2022

Smart farming is a trend in agriculture that involves incorporating information and communication technologies (ICT) into the production process. The study aims to get the factors that contribute to the current exposure to smart farming implementation on farmers from farmers’ perspectives in Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia. The study includes the determination of correlation between factors and exposure implementation of smart farming. About 116 farmers have been selected from the population to conduct the questionnaire. The results were obtained by analysing using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) software. It has been found that personal factors contribute the most to the exposure of smart farming implementation. A significant correlation between personal and environmental factors also has been discovered. Contrary, the security factors have no significant correlation with the exposure of smart farming implementation. Overall, the findings indicated that the implementation of smart farming exposure among farmers is emerging progressively.
Application of Fish Waste Fertilizer on the Growth of Maize (Zea mays)
Authors: Jubin J J , Radzi N M
Published: July 2022

Corn is an important cereal in the world and widely used as human consumption, livestock feed and even as raw material for industrial purposes. A study was carried out on the effect of fish waste fertilizer (FWF) on the growth of maize at UiTM Jasin Campus, Malacca. The experiment was carried out by using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) based on 5 treatments and 5 replications. The control treatment (T1) was 100% of NPK fertilizer, treatment 2 (T2) was 30% of NPK + 70% FWF, treatment 3 (T3) was 50% of NPK + FWF, treatment 4 (T4) was 70% of NPK + 30% FWF and treatment 5 (T5) was 100% FWF. The corn variety used was Leckat 592 and different doses of organic fertilizer were applied 5 times. The parameters used in this study were plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, stem girth and chlorophyll content. In this experiment, treatment 3 (50% of NPK + FWF) and treatment 4 (70% of NPK + 30% FWF) showed significant difference in leaf area and stem girth parameters, respectively. However, there are no significant differences of the treatments on plant height, number of leaves, and chlorophyll content. NPK fertilizer showed the highest mean numbers for the three parameters. Thus, from this study, combination of NPK fertilizer with fish waste fertilizer showed some significant in the growth of corn.
Quality control of crab meat pasteurization using six sigma
Authors: Hidayat K , Tsana N U B , Maflahah I
Published: July 2022

Quality control is a strategy to measure the ability of the production process. In addition, it can identify factors that cause non-standardized products. Currently, crab products packaged in cans are products that are in great demand by foreign countries. One of the companies that produce these products is PT Sumber Mina Bahari. In Indonesia, many companies process crab products for export to buyers. For this reason, quality control is needed so that the product can compete with other companies. The research method used is the six sigma method with the stages of define, measure, analyze, improve, and control. The results showed that the highest causes of defects were dented packaging and scuffed packaging. Still, the production process worked well and was above the average standard of the Indonesian industry. This can be seen from the sigma value of 4-Sigma and the process capability index value of 1.6. From the results of the causal diagram and FMEA, the cause of dented and scuffed cans is caused by human factors. Suggestions for improvement include tighter supervision, work evaluation, job briefings, and training on Standard Operational Procedures. This process needs to be done so that the company can reach the 6-Sigma target.
Effect of postharvest handling of shallots in supporting the sustainability of the availability of shallot seeds
Authors: Siswanto N , Bintoro N , Karyadi J N W , Rahayoe S
Published: July 2022

The need for shallots in Indonesia is increasing every year. Consequently, the sustainability of the availability of shallot seeds is a very important for the fulfillment of the production. The availability of qualified seed is determined by how well the postharvest handling is done by the farmers. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of the postharvest handling by practiced the farmers to ensure the availability of shallot seeds. The research was done at a shallot farmer group which was the most advanced in postharvest handling in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It was found that the harvest age for seeds ranged from 56-70 days after planting (45-83%), of which 30-60% yielded for seeds. Drying by laying on the ground surface was 68-90%, for 7-8 days (60%). All farmers applied pesticides to the seeds before storage. Yield loss during storage was about 30-60% (78% of respondents). These findings concluded that the postharvest activities practiced by the farmers were not optimal yet, this condition threatened the sustainability of the availability of shallot seeds. Therefore, to maintain the availability of the shallot seeds, it was necessary to improve postharvest activities.
Determining Water Stress and Varying Irrigation Regimes on Spinach (Spinacea oleracea L.) Growth Performance
Authors: Nasarullah N N , Ahmed W N W , Othman H
Published: July 2022

Water is essential for the crops’ growth. Scarcity in water will lead to water stress. It is vital to manage irrigation in crops to avoid water stress. Leafy vegetables, such as spinach (Spinacea oleracea L.), require higher water demand than other vegetables. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the growth of spinach grown under various irrigation regimes and to determine at which irrigation set is the most suitable one to avoid water stress. Three irrigation treatments were applied, (T0) common practice (control), (T1) water matric potential = 30centibars, and (T2) water matric potential = 60centibars, measured for 60 days. The treatments were arranged in Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. There were significant differences to the irrigation treatments for plant height, number of root length including the biomass of spinach. T0 was found to be the right rate of water irrigation levels for spinach growth that was watering spinach twice a day until soil was wet. Spinach also can tolerate to mild water stress which was at 30centibars but water set at 60centibars will cause water stress. The highest spinach yield was achieved with adequate water supply, while yield was lower at lower water irrigation levels.
Characterizing the quality of bath salt enriched with lemongrass essential oils as fragrant agent
Authors: Maflahah I , Febriana R N , Indarto C , Asfan D F
Published: July 2022

The study aims to determine the best formulation of bath salt enriched with lemongrass essential oil as fragrant agent each treatment by looking at the water content, pH, dissolving time, foaming, and organoleptic tests. The ingredients for bath salts were Epsom or magnesium sulphate, sodium carbonate, SLES, citric acid, cornflour, olive oil, essential oil, and alcohol. Differences in treatment on the concentration of Epsom and sodium bicarbonate. The results showed that the difference in Epsom concentration (50%,60%,40%) and sodium bicarbonate concentration (5%,10%,15%) was significantly different to water content and pH value. The average pH was 3-4. Bath salts also have easily soluble properties in water and do not have too much foam or foam. The level of preference of bath salts, panellists prefer a soft texture, fragrant flavor, and white colour.
Econometric modelling for estimating of paddy yield and rice production in Melaka, Malaysia
Authors: Shahidan M S , Fatah F A , Lim H E
Published: July 2022

Melaka’s rice industry exhibited a slightly poor performance between 1988 and 2019. The paddy parcel area has decreased from 10,418 ha to 1,837 ha in 32 years. Between 1988 and 2015, the crop intensity factor (CIF) was below 50%. Thus, this research will examine the trend of paddy yield and rice productivity in Melaka from 1988 to 2019 and estimated yield and rice output for 2020 to 2030. This study applies production theory. Data were analyzed using multiple regression with OLS estimation. The findings showed that Melaka paddy production reduced during 1998-1999, 2004-2005 and 2008-2009 due to Asian crisis and global financial crisis. The forecasting study used a 95% confidence range for the average growing rate. Even though paddy output increased by 24.6 percent, the amount forecasted for high paddy yield and rice production in 2030 is unachievable due to high agricultural land needed. Nevertheless, the nuclear paddy is expected to produce more paddy and rice in 2030 than present varieties. Thus, the government should support the development of nuclear paddy varieties, as well as expand paddy parcel area in Melaka. This will assist Malaysia achieve its food security goal of 75% rice self-sufficiency level in the Twelfth Malaysia Plan 2021-2025.
Assessing the Environmental Friendliness of Universitas Andalas for Stingless Bees Species (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini)
Authors: Herwina H , Salmah S , Mairawita  , Nurainas  , Jasmi  , Janra M N , Sari D A
Published: July 2022

Stingless bees have become popular in the last six years because of their promising products such as honey, bee pollen, and propolis. A study on the stingless bees had been conducted in 2019 with the aim to see the ecological aspect dealing with the potency of stingless beekeeping (Meliponiculture) to be held within Universitas Andalas Campus Complex (UACC). A total of ten colonies from ten different stingless bee species were recorded from several sites in UACC and the condition of each colony was concisely observed. Plant species that presumably the potential food source for stingless bees were identified from selected sites at Herbarium, Arboretum, and Storage Spot. The uniqueness of every stingless bee colony and its potency in stingless beekeeping was discussed in this paper. A total of 66 plant species were recorded with note as possible sources for pollen, nectar or resin for stingless bee colonies.
Diversity of Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) at Tobacco Plantation in Sago Malintang Natural Reserve, West Sumatra
Authors: Rahmaizi T , Mairawita  , Herwina H , Sakdiah H T , Janra M N
Published: July 2022

The research on ant diversity at tobacco plantation in Sago Malintang Natural Reserve, West Sumatra, had been conducted on September 2019. This study aimed to determine the diversity of ants at the study site. Ant specimens were collected by using Quadra Protocol applied within two transects that arranged in the middle of plantation and at its edge. As result, 23 species belonged to 17 genera, eight tribes and five subfamilies were identified from 592 specimen collected. Both parts of plantation had moderate ant diversity (H’=2.25). Myrmicinae was subfamily with highest species number recorded (10 species), followed by Formicinae (five species), Ponerinae (four species), and Dolichoderinae (three species), while Pseudomyrmecinae only with one species. Carebara cf. affinis was recognized as common species on both transects. Hand collecting and soil core, two techniques used in Quadra Protocol, performed prominently in collecting specimen in this study. Further detail on research result, transect at the edge of tobacco plantation yielded 460 individuals identified into 21 species, 16 genera, eight tribes and five subfamilies while the transect inside plantation recorded 132 individuals that determined to be from 10 species, nine genera, five tribes and four subfamilies.
Diversity of Insects Associated with Stingless Bee Lepidotrigona terminata at Plantations in Batu Gadang Village, Padang Pariaman Regency, West Sumatra
Authors: Afriana R , Dahelmi  , Herwina H , Janra M N , Jasmi
Published: July 2022

The study observed the diversity of insects that supposed to have direct association with stingless bee Lepidotrigona terminata within plantation habitats in Batu Gadang Village, Padang Pariaman Regency in West Sumatra Province. This study had been conducted from March to May 2021 and aimed to identify insect species that used similar resources with stingless bees Lepidotrigona terminata bred at meliponiculture activity in this area. It used purpossive sampling method by establishing three plant species that frequently visited by the stingless bee as focal of observation, namely jengkol of bitter bean (Archidendron pauciflorum), coconut (Cocos nucifera) and kepundung (Baccaurea racemosa). A total of eight insect species collected from these plants; they are classified into five families and four orders. The ant Oecophylla sp. (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) with 21 individuals became insect that mostly interacted with the stingless bees while Coreus marginatus (Hemiptera, Coreidae) and Chrysolina sp. (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) were the least. While specific interaction they made with stingless bee Lepidotrigona terminata needs further investigation, these insects have associated to the least with the stingless bee at the observed plant species.
Identification of Termites (Insecta: Isoptera) from Anthropogenic Area in Universitas Andalas Campus Complex, West Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Rahman T , Herwina  , Mairawita  , Janra M N
Published: July 2022

Termites (Insecta: Isoptera) have been long recognized as pest insects as they can cause damage on wooden structures. It is highly required to know various aspects regarding this insect group in order to mitigate its destruction. This research initiated the identification of termites infested wooden structures in Universitas Andalas campus complex, Limau Manis, Padang, West Sumatra. It had been conducted from March to July 2020 where the specimens were collected by direct sampling method. A total of seven species from seven genera, four subfamilies and two families of termites were identified in this research. Termitidae became the family with the highest species number (five species) over Rhinotermitidae that only with two species. At the subfamily level, it could be ranked and specified as Nasutitermitinae (three species), followed by Macrotermitinae (two species), Rhinotermitinae and Coptotermitinae (one species each). This finding confirmed the existence of termites within anthropogenic environment such as concrete buildings complex. This confirmation exposed potential damage possessed by termites to the wooden structures within the complex. The presence of termite species in Universitas Andalas environment should initiate proper mitigation and maintenance plans in order to structurally preserve the campus complex.
General quantum Chinos games
Authors: Centeno Daniel , Sierra Germán
Published: July 2022

The Chinos game is a non-cooperative game between players who try to guess the total sum of coins drawn collectively. Semiclassical and quantum versions of this game were proposed by F. Guinea and M. A. Martin-Delgado, in J. Phys. A: Math. Gen. 36 L197 (2003), where the coins are replaced by a boson whose number occupancy is the aim of the player’s guesses. Here, we propose other versions of the Chinos game using a hard-core boson, one qubit, and two qubits. In the latter case, using entangled states the second player has a stable winning strategy that becomes symmetric for non-entangled states. Finally, we use the IBM Quantum Experience to compute the basic quantities involved in the two-qubit version of the game.
A physics-based modeling of a hydraulically amplified electrostatic actuator
Authors: Washington Alexandrea , Olsen Zakai , Su Ji , Kim Kwang J
Published: July 2022

The focus of this study is to understand the physical phenomenon of the liquid-based electroactive polymer (EAP) actuator known as the Hydraulically Amplified Self-Healing Electrostatic (HASEL) actuator. Specifically, this study provides data in several areas, including the deformation of the film material, the dynamics of the dielectric liquid, and the electrical conditions within the actuator body. A two-dimensional model was developed in the finite element software, COMSOL Multiphysics, to create a generalized physics-based framework that describes the actuation mechanism. Much of the predictive data agreed well with the experimental data, such as the electrode pull-in occurring at ∼4.5 kV and the displacement-voltage behavior. More importantly, the model also predicts basic fluid dynamic data, such as velocity (which reached a maximum of 0.7 m s−1), the pressure of the fluid within the enclosed film, and the motion of the fluid, which have not been found in previous models. The model also predicts phenomenon seen in experimentation, such as fluid pockets under the electrodes and the interesting displacement-voltage behavior. Everything considered, the model connects the electrical, mechanical, and fluid systems, thus providing more detail about the dynamics of the actuator system and facilitating a shift in the current approach to modeling and designing these actuators.
Carbon dioxide emissions from international air transport of people and freight: New Zealand as a case study
Authors: Tarr Anna P , Smith Inga J , Rodger Craig J
Published: July 2022

International aviation accounts for over 2% of global emissions, but was not subject to Kyoto Protocol liabilities, and was not directly addressed by the Paris Agreement. Calculating emissions associated with individual countries is complicated, with data that is publicly available and free to access often being difficult to obtain. In this paper, a case study is presented where commercially sensitive fuel uplift is used to calculate New Zealand specific emissions factors of 0.81 kg CO2 per tonne km (CO2 per t-km) for short-haul and 0.79 kg CO2 per t-km for long-haul international aviation. This was used to estimate international aviation CO2 emissions associated with New Zealand in 2017 to be 8.4 Mt CO2 in total (2 significant figures, rounded down), with international visitor travel to and from New Zealand accounting for 4.3 Mt CO2, New Zealand residents’ international travel for 2.6 Mt CO2, exports for 0.72 Mt CO2, and imports for 0.89 Mt CO2 (all 2 significant figures, rounded up). Results show the fleet of aeroplanes which serviced New Zealand between 2007 and 2017 has become, on average, less efficient due to changes in operational factors such as seating density.
The design of polarization-maintaining and polarization-filtering hollow core with nested anti-resonance nodeless fiber for THz guidance
Authors: Phanchat Natthawat , Chitaree Ratchapak
Published: July 2022

A polarization-maintaining and polarization-filtering hollow core fiber with nested anti-resonant nodeless tubes for the THz regime is proposed. The model is designed by the finite element method to operate at 1.0 THz using TOPAS copolymer as the fiber material. The proposed structure consists of four outer tubes with one inner tube each in the orthogonal arrangement. The fiber was optimized to obtain the lowest loss by varying the tube thickness. The simulation results show that the thickness of 0.09 mm was suitable for a low loss of 0.2 dB m−1 operating at 1.0 THz. The fiber property of high birefringence @ 1.5 × 10−4 was made by introducing unequal radial distances between the outer and inner tubes of the orthogonal arrangement. In addition, at a particular difference of the radial distance, it was found that the proposed fiber can act as a polarization filter indicating by having a high crosstalk.
Thinking Health-related Behaviors in a Climate Change Context: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chevance Guillaume , Fresán Ujué , Hekler Eric , Edmondson Donald , Lloyd Simon J , Ballester Joan , Litt Jill , Cvijanovic Ivana , Araújo-Soares Vera , Bernard Paquito
Published: July 2022

Background

Human activities have changed the environment so profoundly over the past two centuries that human-induced climate change is now posing serious health-related threats to current and future generations. Rapid action from all scientific fields, including behavioral medicine, is needed to contribute to both mitigation of, and adaption to, climate change.

Purpose

This article aims to identify potential bi-directional associations between climate change impacts and health-related behaviors, as well as a set of key actions for the behavioral medicine community.

Methods

We synthesized the existing literature about (i) the impacts of rising temperatures, extreme weather events, air pollution, and rising sea level on individual behaviors (e.g., eating behaviors, physical activity, sleep, substance use, and preventive care) as well as the structural factors related to these behaviors (e.g., the food system); and (ii) the concurrent positive and negative roles that health-related behaviors can play in mitigation and adaptation to climate change.

Results

Based on this literature review, we propose a first conceptual model of climate change and health-related behavior feedback loops. Key actions are proposed, with particular consideration for health equity implications of future behavioral interventions. Actions to bridge the fields of behavioral medicine and climate sciences are also discussed.

Conclusions

We contend that climate change is among the most urgent issues facing all scientists and should become a central priority for the behavioral medicine community.
Development of a human antibody that exhibits antagonistic activity toward CC chemokine receptor 7
Authors: Jang Moon-Sung , Ismail Nurain Syahirah Binti , Yu Yeon Gyu
Published: July 2022

Background

CC chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) is a member of G-protein-coupled receptor family and mediates chemotactic migration of immune cells and different cancer cells induced via chemokine (C–C motif) ligand 19 (CCL19) or chemokine (C–C motif) ligand 21 (CCL21). Hence, the identification of blockade antibodies against CCR7 could lead to the development of therapeutics targeting metastatic cancer.

Methods

CCR7 was purified and stabilized in its active conformation, and antibodies specific to purified CCR7 were screened from the synthetic M13 phage library displaying humanized scFvs. The in vitro characterization of selected scFvs identified two scFvs that exhibited CCL19-competitive binding to CCR7. IgG4’s harboring selected scFv sequences were characterized for binding activity in CCR7+ cells, inhibitory activity toward CCR7-dependent cAMP attenuation, and the CCL19 or CCL21-dependent migration of CCR7+ cells.

Results

Antibodies specifically binding to purified CCR7 and CCR7+ cells were isolated and characterized. Two antibodies, IgG4(6RG11) and IgG4(72C7), showed ligand-dependent competitive binding to CCR7 with KD values of 40 nM and 50 nM, respectively. Particularly, IgG4(6RG11) showed antagonistic activity against CCR7, whereas both antibodies significantly blocked the ligand-induced migration and invasion activity of CCR7+ cancer cells.

Conclusions

Two antibody clones were successfully identified from a synthetic scFv-displaying phage library using purified recombinant CCR7 as an antigen. Antibodies specifically bound to the surface of CCR7+ cells and blocked CCR7+ cell migration. Particularly, 6RG11 showed antagonist activity against CCR7-dependent cAMP attenuation.
Localized conformal prediction: a generalized inference framework for conformal prediction
Authors: Guan Leying
Published: July 2022

We propose a new inference framework called localized conformal prediction. It generalizes the framework of conformal prediction by offering a single-test-sample adaptive construction that emphasizes a local region around this test sample, and can be combined with different conformal scores. The proposed framework enjoys an assumption-free finite sample marginal coverage guarantee, and it also offers additional local coverage guarantees under suitable assumptions. We demonstrate how to change from conformal prediction to localized conformal prediction using several conformal scores, and we illustrate a potential gain via numerical examples.
Development of a Sensitive and Rapid HPLC–MS Method for Dihydrocodeine and Dihydromorphine: Application to Bioequivalence Studies
Authors: Zhu Zhenyu , Huang Xiaomei , Tan Zheng , Huang Jian , Chen Mei , He Binbin , Cai Hualin , Zhang Bikui
Published: July 2022

A ultraperformance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method has been developed to determine dihydrocodeine (DHC) and dihydromorphine (DHM) in human plasma using dihydrocodeine-d6 and desomorphine as internal standards (IS). Acetonitrile–water–ammonium format was used as the mobile phase, in gradient elution on a C18 column. The concentration of DHC and DHM was determined in the positive ionization mode of mass spectrometry. The total chromatogram run time was 3.2 min, and the linear ranges of DHC and DHM were 1.000–400.0 ng/mL and 0.050–20.00 ng/mL, respectively. The method was fully validated concerning precision, accuracy, selectivity, linearity, recovery, stability and matrix effect. The method had been successfully applied to the bioequivalence test. In addition, we found that a high-fat diet impacts the Tmax and t1/2 of DHC.
Decreased Dolutegravir and Efavirenz Concentrations With Preserved Virological Suppression in Patients With Tuberculosis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Receiving High-Dose Rifampicin
Authors: Sekaggya-Wiltshire Christine , Nabisere Ruth , Musaazi Joseph , Otaalo Brian , Aber Florence , Alinaitwe Lucy , Nampala Juliet , Najjemba Letisha , Buzibye Allan , Omali Denis , Gausi Kamunkhwala , Kengo Allan , Lamorde Mohammed , Aarnoutse Rob , Denti Paolo , Dooley Kelly E , Sloan Derek J
Published: July 2022

Background

Higher doses of rifampicin may improve treatment outcomes and reduce the duration of tuberculosis (TB) therapy. However, drug–drug interactions with antiretroviral therapy (ART) and safety in people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have not been evaluated.

Methods

This was a randomized, open-label trial where newly diagnosed TB patients were randomized to higher (35 mg/kg) or standard (10 mg/kg) daily-dose rifampicin. ART treatment–naive patients were randomized to dolutegravir- or efavirenz-based ART. At week 6, trough dolutegravir or mid-dose efavirenz plasma concentrations were assayed. HIV viral load was measured at week 24.

Results

Among 128 patients randomized, the median CD4 count was 191 cells/mm3. The geometric mean ratio (GMR) for trough dolutegravir concentrations on higher- vs standard-dose rifampicin was 0.57 (95% confidence interval [CI], .34–.97; P = .039) and the GMR for mid-dose efavirenz was 0.63 (95% CI, .38–1.07; P = .083). There was no significant difference in attainment of targets for dolutegravir trough or efavirenz mid-dose concentrations between rifampicin doses. The incidence of HIV treatment failure at week 24 was similar between rifampicin doses (14.9% vs 14.0%, P = .901), as was the incidence of drug-related grade 3–4 adverse events (9.8% vs 6%). At week 8, fewer patients remained sputum culture positive on higher-dose rifampicin (18.6% vs 37.0%, P = .063).

Conclusions

Compared with standard-dose rifampicin, high-dose rifampicin reduced dolutegravir and efavirenz exposures, but HIV suppression was similar across treatment arms. Higher-dose rifampicin was well tolerated among people with HIV and associated with a trend toward faster sputum culture conversion.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT03982277.
Insights into chromosomal evolution and sex determination of Pseudobagrus ussuriensis (Bagridae, Siluriformes) based on a chromosome-level genome
Authors: Zhu Chuankun , Liu Haiyang , Pan Zhengjun , Cheng Lei , Sun Yanhong , Wang Hui , Chang Guoliang , Wu Nan , Ding Huaiyu , Zhao Haitao , Zhang Lei , Yu Xiangsheng
Published: July 2022

Pseudobagrus ussuriensis is an aquaculture catfish with significant sexual dimorphism. In this study, a chromosome-level genome with a size of 741.97 Mb was assembled for female P. ussuriensis. A total of 26 chromosome-level contigs covering 97.34% of the whole-genome assembly were obtained with an N50 of 28.53 Mb and an L50 of 11. A total of 24,075 protein-coding genes were identified, with 91.54% (22,039) genes being functionally annotated. Based on the genome assembly, four chromosome evolution clusters of catfishes were identified and the formation process of P. ussuriensis chromosomes was predicted. A total of 55 sex-related quantitative trait loci (QTLs) with a phenotypic variance explained value of 100% were located on chromosome 8 (chr08). The QTLs and other previously identified sex-specific markers were located in a sex-determining region of 16.83 Mb (from 6.90 to 23.73 Mb) on chr08, which was predicted as the X chromosome. The sex-determining region comprised 554 genes, with 135 of which being differently expressed between males and females/pseudofemales, and 16 candidate sex-determining genes were screened out. The results of this study provided a useful chromosome-level genome for genetic, genomic and evolutionary studies of P. ussuriensis, and also be useful for further studies on sex-determination mechanism analysis and sex-control breeding of this fish.
Valve-sparing root reimplantation in patients with left ventricular dilation
Authors: Patrick William L , Rosen Jake L , Bavaria Joseph E , Ahmed Sania , Freas Andrew , Yarlagadda Siddharth , Cannon Brittany , Iyengar Amit , Kelly John J , Zhao Yu , Grimm Joshua C , Szeto Wilson Y , Desai Nimesh D
Published: July 2022

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between left ventricular (LV) dilation and outcomes following valve-sparing root reimplantation.

METHODS

Patients with an indexed LV internal diameter during systole of ≥2.0 cm/m2 were categorized as having LV dilation. Outcomes were postoperative aortic insufficiency (AI), reintervention and all-cause mortality. The cumulative incidence of each outcome was computed using the Kaplan–Meier estimator. Adjusted comparisons between strata were performed for each outcome using a Cox proportional-hazards model. Where possible, the competing risk of death was accounted for. Multilevel mixed-effects ordered logistic regression was performed for AI grade at follow-up.

RESULTS

There were 295 patients of whom 52 had LV dilation. Operative outcomes were excellent; there were no significant differences between groups. Patients with LV dilation demonstrated significant improvement in indexed LV internal diameter during systole overtime. There was no association between LV dilation and postoperative AI grade >2 [hazard ratio 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21–3.67, P = 0.89] or odds of increased AI grade overtime (odds ratio = 0.76, 95% CI 0.30–1.93, P = 0.57). There were no re-interventions among those with LV dilation. Adjusted mortality was significantly higher among those with LV dilation (hazard ratio 5.56, 95% CI 1.56–19.9); however, deaths were unrelated to aortic valve dilation.

CONCLUSIONS

LV dilation is not associated with poorer operative outcomes, postoperative AI or reintervention. It is associated with an increased risk of mortality, though not from valvular dysfunction. LV dilation should not deter valve-sparing root reimplantation when otherwise indicated.
Clock genes rescue nphp mutations in zebrafish
Authors: Kayser Nicolas , Zaiser Friedemann , Veenstra Anna C , Wang Hui , Göcmen Burulca , Eckert Priska , Franz Henriette , Köttgen Anna , Walz Gerd , Yakulov Toma A
Published: July 2022

The zebrafish pronephros model, using morpholino oligonucleotides (MO) to deplete target genes, has been extensively used to characterize human ciliopathy phenotypes. Recently, discrepancies between MO and genetically defined mutants have questioned this approach. We analyzed zebrafish with mutations in the nphp1-4-8 module to determine the validity of MO-based results. While MO-mediated depletion resulted in glomerular cyst and cloaca malformation, these ciliopathy-typical manifestations were observed at a much lower frequency in zebrafish embryos with defined nphp mutations. All nphp1-4-8 mutant zebrafish were viable and displayed decreased manifestations in the next (F2) generation, lacking maternal RNA contribution. While genetic compensation was further supported by the observation that nphp4-deficient mutants became partially refractory to MO-based nphp4 depletion, zebrafish embryos, lacking one nphp gene, became more sensitive to MO-based depletion of additional nphp genes. Transcriptome analysis of nphp8 mutant embryos revealed an upregulation of the circadian clock genes cry1a and cry5. MO-mediated depletion of cry1a and cry5 caused ciliopathy phenotypes in wild-type embryos, while cry1a and cry5 depletion in maternal zygotic nphp8 mutant embryos increased the frequency of glomerular cysts compared to controls. Importantly, cry1a and cry5 rescued the nephropathy-related phenotypes in nphp1, nphp4 or nphp8-depleted zebrafish embryos. Our results reveal that nphp mutant zebrafish resemble the MO-based phenotypes, albeit at a much lower frequency. Rapid adaption through upregulation of circadian clock genes seems to ameliorate the loss of nphp genes, contributing to phenotypic differences.
Non-Salem Sets in Metric Diophantine Approximation
Authors: Hambrook Kyle , Yu Han
Published: July 2022

A classical result of Kaufman states that, for each $\tau>1$, the set of $\tau $-well approximable numbers $$ \begin{align*} & E(\tau)=\{x \in \mathbb{R}: |xq-r| < |q|^{-\tau} \text{ for infinitely many integer pairs } (q,r)\} \end{align*}$$is a Salem set. A natural question to ask is whether the same is true for the sets of $\tau $-well approximable $n \times d$ matrices when $nd>1$ and $\tau> d/n$. We prove the answer is no by computing the Fourier dimension of these sets. In addition, we show that the set of badly approximable $n \times d$ matrices is not Salem when $nd> 1$. The case of $nd=1$, that is, the badly approximable numbers, remains unresolved.
Retinoic Acid–Inducible Gene I Activation Inhibits Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Replication in Mammalian Cells and in Mouse and Ferret Models of Infection
Authors: Schwab Lara S U , Farrukee Rubaiyea , Eléouët Jean-François , Rameix-Welti Marie-Anne , Londrigan Sarah L , Brooks Andrew G , Hurt Aeron C , Coch Christoph , Zillinger Thomas , Hartmann Gunther , Reading Patrick C
Published: July 2022

Infections caused by human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are associated with substantial rates of morbidity and mortality. Treatment options are limited, and there is urgent need for the development of efficient antivirals. Pattern recognition receptors such as the cytoplasmic helicase retinoic acid–inducible gene (RIG) I can be activated by viral nucleic acids, leading to activation of interferon-stimulated genes and generation of an “antiviral state.” In the current study, we activated RIG-I with synthetic RNA agonists (3pRNA) to induce resistance to RSV infection in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, pretreatment of human, mouse, and ferret airway cell lines with RIG-I agonist before RSV exposure inhibited virus infection and replication. Moreover, a single intravenous injection of 3pRNA 1 day before RSV infection resulted in potent inhibition of virus replication in the lungs of mice and ferrets, but not in nasal tissues. These studies provide evidence that RIG-I agonists represent a promising antiviral drug for RSV prophylaxis.
The Threat of Climate Change on Tick-Borne Infections: Rising Trend of Infections and Geographic Distribution of Climate Risk Factors Associated With Ticks
Authors: Lee Jung-Seok , Chung Suh-Yong
Published: July 2022

Ticks transmit a wide range of pathogens. The spread of tick-borne infections is an emerging, yet often overlooked, threat in the context of climate change. The infections have rapidly increased over the past few years in South Korea despite no significant changes in socioeconomic circumstances. We investigated the impact of climate change on the surge of tick-borne infections and identified potential disease hot spots at a resolution of 5 km by 5 km. A composite index was constructed based on multiple climate and environmental indicators and compared with the observed tick-borne infections. The surge of tick-borne episodes corresponded to the rising trend of the index over time. High-risk areas identified by the index can be used to prioritize locations for disease prevention activities. Monitoring climate risk factors may provide an opportunity to predict the spread of the infections in advance.
Chemometric and Design of Experiments-Based Analytical Quality by Design and Green Chemistry Approaches to Multipurpose High-Pressure Liquid Chromatographic Method for Synchronous Estimation of Multiple Fixed-Dose Combinations of Azilsartan Medoxomil
Authors: Prajapati Pintu , Shahi Abhinandan , Acharya Aneri , Shah Shailesh
Published: July 2022

Background

Azilsartan medoxomil (AZL) is an anti-hypertensive drug, and its numerous FDCs are used for the treatment of hypertension. Numerous chromatographic methods have been reported for the estimation of FDCs of AZL, but analysts have to establish a separate chromatographic condition for the analysis of each FDC of AZL. No reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method has been reported yet that can be used for synchronous estimation of multiple FDCs of AZL.

Objective

Hence, the RP-HPLC-PDA method has been developed for synchronous estimation of multiple FDCs of AZL to save time, cost, and solvent for the analysis.

Method

The RP-HPLC-PDA method has been developed by the implementation of the analytical quality by design (AQbD) approach based on chemometric and DoE as per the upcoming International Council for Harmonization (ICH) Q14 guideline.

Results

The method was applied for synchronous estimation of multiple FDCs of AZL, and the assay results were found in compliance with the labeled claim of the FDCs.

Conclusions

The developed method requires less time, cost, and organic solvent for analysis of the said pharmaceutical dosage forms compared to published chromatographic methods. Hence, the developed method is green and multipurpose for the estimation of multiple FDCs of AZL.

Highlights

Development and validation of RP-HPLC method for synchronous estimation of multiple FDCs of AZL using chemometric (principal component analysis and PLS) and design of experiments (DoE). Applications of the method for synchronous estimation of multiple FDCs of AZL.
Genomic dissection of repeatability considering additive and nonadditive genetic effects for semen production traits in beef and dairy bulls
Authors: Nagai Rintaro , Kinukawa Masashi , Watanabe Toshio , Ogino Atsushi , Kurogi Kazuhito , Adachi Kazunori , Satoh Masahiro , Uemoto Yoshinobu
Published: July 2022

The low heritability and moderate repeatability of semen production traits in beef and dairy bulls suggest that nonadditive genetic effects, such as dominance and epistatic effects, play an important role in semen production and should therefore be considered in genetic improvement programs. In this study, the repeatability of semen production traits in Japanese Black bulls (JB) as beef bulls and Holstein bulls (HOL) as dairy bulls was evaluated by considering additive and nonadditive genetic effects using the Illumina BovineSNP50 BeadChip. We also evaluated the advantage of using more complete models that include nonadditive genetic effects by comparing the rank of genotyped animals and the phenotype prediction ability of each model. In total, 65,463 records for 615 genotyped JB and 48,653 records for 845 genotyped HOL were used to estimate additive and nonadditive (dominance and epistatic) variance components for semen volume (VOL), sperm concentration (CON), sperm motility (MOT), MOT after freeze–thawing (aMOT), and sperm number (NUM). In the model including both additive and nonadditive genetic effects, the broad-sense heritability (0.17 to 0.43) was more than twice as high as the narrow-sense heritability (0.04 to 0.11) for all traits and breeds, and the differences between the broad-sense heritability and repeatability were very small for VOL, NUM, and CON in both breeds. A large proportion of permanent environmental variance was explained by epistatic variance. The epistatic variance as a proportion of total phenotypic variance was 0.07 to 0.33 for all traits and breeds. In addition, heterozygosity showed significant positive relationships with NUM, MOT, and aMOT in JB and NUM in HOL, when the heterozygosity rate was included as a covariate. In a comparison of models, the inclusion of nonadditive genetic effects resulted in a re-ranking of the top genotyped bulls for the additive effects. Adjusting for nonadditive genetic effects could be expected to produce a more accurate breeding value, even if the models have similar fitting. However, including nonadditive genetic effects did not improve the ability of any model to predict phenotypic values for any trait or breed compared with the predictive ability of a model that includes only additive effects. Consequently, although nonadditive genetic effects, especially epistatic effects, play an important role in semen production traits, they do not improve prediction accuracy in beef and dairy bulls.