bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implications of habitat overlap between giant panda and sambar for sympatric multi-species conservation
Authors: Bai Wenke , Zhang Jindong , He Ke , Zhao Shanshan , Gu Xiaodong , Hu Jie , Songer Melissa , Zhou Caiquan , Dong Xin , Huang Qiongyu
Published: December 2022

Context Studies of distribution and habitat utilisation of sympatric animals, especially those experiencing population increases, are useful for understanding their specialised habitat niches and interspecies relationships, in addition to developing effective protection strategies. Aims As a species that lives within the range of the giant panda, the sambar population has been increasing in the past few decades in Southwest China. In this paper, we aimed to analyse the overlap in habitat area and habitat suitability between giant panda and sambar in Wolong National Nature Reserve to examine potential sympatric species competition in the context of wildlife conservation. Methods We ran MaxEnt models based on giant panda occurrence sign locations (n = 316) and sambar presence locations (n = 598). In addition, we predicted the core and secondary habitat for the two species to assess the degree of competition across a gradient of habitat conditions. Key results Our analysis detected significant habitat overlap between the two species – up to 75.96% in their potential habitat, with suitability overlap indices reaching 0.74. Conclusions These results indicate that the similarity of habitat requirements of the two species is high in our study area. In addition, the competition over space utilisation between the two species’ populations could intensify in the future as the sambar population increases. Implications Our results suggest that habitat restoration and corridor construction could be recommended as conservation strategies for future wildlife conservation in China’s Giant Panda National Park. Moreover, future wildlife conservation should pay greater attention to the niche overlap and interspecific competition among sympatric species. We suggest strengthening habitat restoration and corridors for all key species in the region, not just giant pandas, to alleviate the increased competition associated with niche overlap among sympatric species.
Pristine and transition metal decorated holey graphyne monolayer as an ammonia sensor: insights from DFT simulations
Authors: Lakshmy Seetha , Kundu Ajit , Kalarikkal Nandakumar , Chakraborty Brahmananda
Published: December 2022

The first-principles density functional theory method has been employed to comprehensively investigate adsorption configurations, adsorption energies, electronic properties, and gas sensing characteristics of pure and transition metal (TM = Sc, Pd, and Cu) decorated holey graphyne (HGY) monolayer for the detection of ammonia (NH3). The calculations reveal that the NH3 molecule weakly interacts with the pristine HGY surface with an adsorption energy of −0.146 eV. The expedited charge transfer and strong orbital hybridization between the NH3 molecule and the decorated TM (except Pd) resulted in the strong adsorption of the NH3 on the TM-decorated system. Among the three metals, it is found that the Sc decorated HGY can be regarded as the potential NH3 sensor owing to its reasonable adsorption energy of −1.49 eV, a large charge transfer of 0.113e, and an attainable recovery time of 3.2 s at 600 K. Furthermore, the stability of the Sc decorated HGY structure at ambient temperature is also validated using the ab initio molecular dynamic simulations. The results of the current study mirror the probable application of 2D HGY-based gas sensors for the detection of ammonia.
Molecular beam epitaxy growth and scanning tunneling microscopy study of 2D layered materials on epitaxial graphene/silicon carbide
Authors: Lu Hui , Liu Wenji , Wang Haolin , Liu Xiao , Zhang Yiqiang , Yang Deren , Pi Xiaodong
Published: December 2022

Since the advent of atomically flat graphene, two-dimensional (2D) layered materials have gained extensive interest due to their unique properties. The 2D layered materials prepared on epitaxial graphene/silicon carbide (EG/SiC) surface by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) have high quality, which can be directly applied without further transfer to other substrates. Scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS) with high spatial resolution and high-energy resolution are often used to study the morphologies and electronic structures of 2D layered materials. In this review, recent progress in the preparation of various 2D layered materials that are either monoelemental or transition metal dichalcogenides on EG/SiC surface by MBE and their STM/STS investigations are introduced.
Comment on ‘Quantum principle of relativity’
Authors: Del Santo Flavio , Horvat Sebastian
Published: December 2022

Dragan and Ekert (New J. Phys.
22 033038) have recently claimed that fundamental properties of quantum physics (e.g. fundamental indeterminism and the principle of superposition) can be derived solely from relativistic considerations, if one takes as physically meaningful superluminal reference frames. In this comment we show that their arguments are flawed and their claims therefore unwarranted.
Flash drought drives rapid vegetation stress in arid regions in Europe
Authors: O Sungmin , Park Seon Ki
Published: December 2022

Flash droughts are characterised by rapid onset, combined with the potential to severely impact agriculture and ecosystems. However, assessments of the ecological impacts of flash droughts, especially in Europe, are largely lacking. Here we investigate ecosystem responses to flash droughts in Europe between 2001 and 2019 using diverse observational data, including gross primary production (GPP) and leaf area index (LAI). We find that in arid regions an abrupt transition to water-stressed conditions occurs within a few weeks, which negatively affects vegetation status and reduces carbon uptake in the initial stages of drought; normalised anomalies of LAI and GPP decrease to about −0.5. By contrast, vegetation in humid regions is not as severely affected, given that soil moisture recovers relatively quickly. We also show that soil moisture status before the onset of drought significantly impacts the timing (1–5 pentads) and degree (−0.33 to −0.71 of normalised LAI and GPP anomalies) of drought-induced vegetation stress, particularly in arid regions. Our results highlight the regional characteristics of flash drought impacts for more informative monitoring and early warning systems.
The Great Potential of Sengarat Fish (Belodontichthys dinema, Bleeker 1851) to Become an Aquaculture Commodity in Buluh Nipis Village, Siak Hulu District, Kampar Regency
Authors: Lesmana I , Heltonika B , Darfia N E , Hendrizal A , Adelina A , Mulyani I , Fitra D
Published: December 2022

Sengarat fish, with the Latin name Belodontichthys dinema, Bleeker 1851, is a fishery commodity with high economic value and became a proud species of the community and was used as an icon of Riau Province. The current condition is that the existence of Sengarat Fish continues to decline due to overfishing, the use of fishing gear that is not environmentally friendly, and habitat destruction. Therefore, it is necessary to domesticate as an effort to develop sengarat fish into one of the aquaculture commodities. This study aims to determine the ecological value and economic status from the angle of fishing fishers and collecting traders, as well as the public’s interest in sengarat fish farming. The research was conducted in Buluh Nipis Village, Siak Hulu District, Kampar Regency, in July 2022. The method used is a description analysis obtained from literature, interviews, and surveys. The respondents used for interviews and surveys were ten people with the status of capture fishers and one gathering merchant. The Kampar river environment, which is used as a sengarat fishing ground, has a reasonably good condition but has experienced siltation due to the conversion of land into oil palm plantations along the watershed. Based on interviews, the catch of sengarat fish by fishers has declined over the past five years. This is characterized by not every day sengarat fish caught and only existing in certain months or seasons. The economic status of sengarat fish is high economic fish, characterized by a reasonably high selling price in the market, which ranges from Rp.130,000 to Rp.150,000-per kilogram. The status of sengarat fish farming is that wild fish are still being caught in the country, and there is no technology or effort to cultivate them.
Replacement of Soybean Meal with Kapok Seed Oil Waste Meal (Ceiba Petandra ( L.) Gaertn.) on Growth, Survival and Intestine Histology of Milk Fish (Chanos-Chanos Forsskal, 1775)
Authors: Kurnia A , Muskita W H , Hamzah M , Yusnaini Y , Abidin LOB
Published: December 2022

The requirement for replacement of soybean meal (SBM) as commonly vegetable protein in fish feed with local potentially vegetable protein as an important for looking the low price of feed ingredient in to create the sustainability aquaculture. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of replacement of SBM with kapok seed oil waste meal (KSWOM) in the diet on the performance and histology in milkfish (Chanos chanos). Four experimental diets were formulated to contain KSOWM as substitution of SBM in the diet, with inclusion level of 0%, 25%, 50% and 75%. Total 120 juveniles (initial weight: 1.14± 0.09 g) were placed into twelve glass tanks (10 juveniles/tank) and the juvenile were reared with using water recirculating system. The feeding frequency of the milk fish was twice a day (8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.) with doses of 5% body weight for 60 days of rearing. The histology of intestine were also assessed. The results indicated that weight gain of the milk fish was significantly different with replacing of 25%, 50% and 75% dietary SBM with KSWOM in the diet. Moreover this feeding trial, survival rate, feed efficiency, and feed conversion ratio of the fish fed the KSOWM diet were significantly different lower than the milkfish fed without replacement of SMB dietary in the diet. Histological analysis showed that of intestine of the fish fed with even though diet contained 25% KSOWM showed also indicated damage in their intestine morphological figure. The present study revealed that replacement less than 25% SBM with KSOWM in the diet might be growth perform well and decrease of histo-morphological damage of the intestine of milkfish.
Effects of Vitamin C and Squid Oil Supplementation on Gonad Maturation of Climbing Perch Broodstock (Anabas testudineus Bloch).
Authors: Fitriliyani I , Aminah  , Murdjani A , Bijaksana U , Fatmawati  , Redha E , Aisyiah S , Kusumawardani D
Published: December 2022

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of adding vitamin C and squid oil to commercial feed for broodstock fish (Anabas testudineus Bloch) on the speed of gonadal maturation and growth. The study was conducted for three months using a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 3 replications. The test fish were 10 each in each treatment hapa, the treatment of feed A (Commercial feed =CF); B (CF + Vit c 2gr/kg; C (CF+ squid oil 3 ml/kg) and D (CF+ Vitamin C 2 g/kg + Squid oil 3 ml/kg). Feed was given in the morning and evening satiation for 30 days. The results showed that the commercial feed added with a combination of vitamin C 2000mg/kg feed and squid oil as much as 3mg/kg feed (Treatment D) gave the best gonadal maturity level. This is indicated by the average Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) of 4.20% and the average HepatoSomatic Index (HSI) of 3.91%, higher than other treatments. Supported by statistical test results showed very significant differences in somatic gonadal index, hepatosomatic index, egg diameter and absolute fecundity. Meanwhile, growth and condition factors did not show significant differences. There is a tendency that if the dose of vitamin C and squid oil is increased again, it will be able to increase the gonad maturity of the broodstock of climbing perch.
Microbiological Quality of Vannamei Shrimp Pond Waters in Rupat Island, Bengkalis District, Riau.
Authors: Nursyirwani N , Mardalisa M , Batubara U M , Nurhayati N , Putri R F
Published: December 2022

The presence of pathogenic bacteria in shrimp culture water could influence the shrimp growth and production. This research aimed to quantify total coliform, Escherichia coli and total Vibrio in pond water of Vannamei shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) culture in Rupat Island. Water samples from inlet water (IW), water from three ponds (PW2, PW3, PW6) and outlet water (OW) were collected for the quantification of total coliform and Escherichia coli by the MPN technique and total Vibrio count on TCBS agar. Coliforms was found in all water samples, the lowest count was in inlet water sample (20 MPN/100 mL), and the highest was contained in outlet water (>2400 MPN/100 mL), however E. coli was not detected in all water samples. Meanwhile, the lowest total Vibrio count was found in PW3 (6.35 × 103), and the highest was in the PW6 (3.10 × 105). In addition to the microbiological quality, some water quality parameters were also observed, those were water temperature in the range of 27.5- 29.4°C, salinity of 18.7-21.5 ppt, pH of 7.17-7.89, DO of 1.3-7.6 mg/L, NH3 content of 0.96-1.26 mg/L and DOM of 26.2–27.6 mg/L. The data indicated that pathogenic bacteria were present in all pond waters which should be decreased for the safety shrimp production.
The Effect of Culture Media Types on the Growth of Marine Microalgae Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Mardalisa M , Zalfiatri Y , Rahmayuni R
Published: December 2022

Chlorella vulgaris is one of the marine microalgae that has potential to be developed, one of which is the renewable energy sector, biodiesel. The growth media used in the biomass production of microalgae are very various, such as Walne, Guillard, and Agriculture Fertilizer (Urea). This study aims to determine the effect of types of growth media on population density, absolute growth, relative growth rate, and specific growth rate of C. vulgaris. Study on 3 media types of microalgae growth shows the density of C. vulgaris cultured on a laboratory scale experienced the highest peak density in the Guillard media on the 3rd day around 7430 x 104 cells/mL. However, the lowest density peak was in the Urea culture about 2520 x 104 cells/mL, followed by Walne media around 3335 x 104 cells/mL. The highest absolute growth average was found in the Guillard media about 6311 x 104 cells/mL and the lowest was in the Urea and Walne media about 1401 x 104 cells/mL and 2216 x 104 cells/mL, respectively. Meanwhile, in C. vulgaris culture, it was found that Guillard and Walne media produced the highest relative growth of 564% and 198% and the lowest was at 125% for Agriculture Fertilizer (Urea). In the process of culturing C. vulgaris for 6 days, it was found that Guillard media showed the highest average specific growth rate of 58% per day and the lowest was on Urea culture as much as 27% per day, followed by Walne media about 36%.
Physicochemical Characterization of Calcium Oxide from Freshwater Mussel (Pilsbryoconcha sp.) Shell
Authors: Sidauruk S W , Iriani D , Diharmi A , Anggraini A , Azka A
Published: December 2022

Freshwater mussel (Pilsbryoconchasp.) shells have a proportion of 51.93%, which is included in the solid waste resulting from the processing of mussels. In fact, mussel shells are rich in minerals, especially high calcium, with a calcium content of 39.55%. So innovation is needed so that the utilization of mussel shells is maximized. One way is through the valorization of mussel shells into products with high added value. This study aimed to determine the physicochemical characteristics of the CaO (calcium oxide) extract of freshwater mussel shells. Valorization of mussel shells into calcium oxide (CaO) flour by calcination method at 1000°C temperature. The test parameters were yield, functional groups using the FTIR instrument, macro (calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus) and micro minerals (Manganese, zinc, iron, and sodium) using the AAS instrument. The results showed that the physicochemical characteristics of calcium oxide (CaO) flour from the shell of the freshwater mussel (Pilsbryoconchasp.) included: the proportion of shell 51.90%, the proportion of meat and viscera 48.10%; CaO yield of 56.47%; identified the Ca-O group at a wavelength of 1 661, 1 409, 1 116, and 875 cm-1; and dominated by calcium content of 76.27% to potential as a calcium precursor in the synthesis of hydroxyapatite.
Processing and Utilization of Natural Phospholipids from Fish Belly Fat Waste of Jambal Siam Fish (Pangasius Hypophthalamus)
Authors: Ilza M , Diharmi A
Published: December 2022

Phospholipids are used for food products, drug formulas, stabilizers, lubricants, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and emulsifiers. Synthetic phospholipids tend to be utilized for food and medicinal purposes, but nowadays consumer concern has shifted to phospholipids from natural ingredients. Phospholipids have functional properties towards health, consumer often requires phospholipids containing certain fatty acids such as omega 3. The purpose of this research is to process the belly fat waste of jambal siam fish into phospholipids and purify the phospholipids that are already obtained. The results showed that the highest saturated fatty acid content in jambal siam fish belly oil was palmitic acid which was expected to dominate the structure of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidic acid, and cardiolipin. The highest content of unsaturated fatty acids is oleic acid which was expected to dominate phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, and phosphatidylcholine structure. The highest phospholipid content was phosphotidylcholine, followed by phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositol. The hexane solvent produced a higher soluble hexane unsaturated fatty acid fraction than the insoluble hexane fraction, especially omega 6 and omega 9. While acetone produced higher levels of oleic acid and omega 3 soluble acetone, which was higher than the insoluble acetone. The higher the level of purity of phospholipids, the higher the content of oleic acid and omega 3.
First Report of Argulus Ectoparasite from Koto Panjang Reservoir, Indonesia
Authors: Budijono B , Kamaruddin E , Harjoyudanto Y , Windarti W , Fauzi M , Riauwaty M , Alfinda R
Published: December 2022

Carp cultivation has been going on for a long time in the Koto Panjang Reservoir and the type of Argulus ectoparasite in this fish culture has not been reported. This initial research study aims to identify the morphology and characterize the DNA of the Argulus species in this reservoir. This research can be used as initial information material for the management of aquaculture fish health and early warning against water quality degradation. Argulus surveys were carried out on carp parent cages with coordinate positions 0°16′46.7” North and 100°51”26.2” East. Argulus specimens were collected from live and dead carp bodies (body surface, gills, operculum, caudal fin, pectoral fin, anal fin, pelvic fin, base of tail, and abdomen) using a spatula and stored in 96% ethanol for identification using standard literature and DNA barcoding techniques. The research results obtained 115 specimens of the genus Argulus from 49 live goldfish (2800-4900 mm and 200-1800 g) and 3 goldfish that died ± 3-4 days which were characterized by white gills and white mucus lumps between the scales. DNA characterization revealed that the name of this fish lice species (Argulus) could not be determined and had a close relationship with Argulus japonicus Shizuoka-2019 with an identity value of 79.22%.
Characteristics of Young Mangrove (Sonneratia alba) Leaf Extract as A Biosalt Preparation
Authors: Sari N I , Sidauruk S W , Dewita D , Ananda N T
Published: December 2022

Mangrove (Sonneratia alba) leaves contain bioactive compounds, macro and micro minerals, and NaCl content. However, the potential of the young mangrove leaves has not been explored. This research aimed to determine the characteristics of young mangrove leaf extract as a biosalt preparation. The sample used in this research was young mangrove leaves extracted using aquadest with 1:5 ratio. The parameters were tested for yield, moisture content, ash content, the mineral content of Natrium and Kalium, Na:K ratio, and NaCl content. The results showed that the biosalt characteristics of the mangrove leaf extract consisted of a brown appearance with a salty flavor, 6.96% yield, 5.07% moisture, 36.59% ash, 1.27 Na:K ratio, and 19.53% NaCl. Based on the NaCl content, the resulting biosalt required the dietary salt quality standard according to Standard National Indonesia of dietary salt.
Analysis of crab fisherman’s household structure and livelihood strategy after the Kendari Bay revitalization
Authors: Limi M A , Ningsih S R , Fyka S A , Syarni P , Hidrawati  , Dewi H S , Attamimi U
Published: December 2022

The study determines the structure and strategy of livelihood and household welfare of crab fishermen after the revitalization of Kendari Bay. Determination of the research area is done purposively. The population and sample in this study were fishermen who persisted in using Kendari Bay as a location for catching crabs after the sedimentation and reclamation of Kendari Bay to meet family needs. The data analysis used is qualitative analysis to determine the strategy and structure of fishermen’s livelihood and quantitative research to assess household welfare by calculating fishermen’s income which will be compared with the regional minimum wage. The results showed that the livelihood structure of crab fishermen consisted of on-farm (fishery sector) as mud crab fishermen and non-farm (non-fishery sector) as construction workers, company workers, and the wages for ship work that were carried out erratically every month. The crab fisherman’s livelihood strategy is a double income pattern where the fisherman and his wife work in the non-fishery sector to meet their household needs and migrate by mobility or moving to other areas outside the Kendari Bay coast. The income of crab fishermen from catching crabs in Kendari Bay (fishery sector) is IDR2.379.859 and working in the non-fishery sector is IDR1.319.375. Hence, the total household income of crab fishermen is IDR3.699.234, higher than the minimum wage of Kendari City in 2022, IDR2.823.315, so the crab fishing households are still categorized as prosperous.
Sustainability Status of Baung Fish in Public Waters, Kampar Regency, Riau Province
Authors: Pradini U R , Arief H
Published: December 2022

This study aims to assess the sustainability status of the utilization of baung fish (Mystus nemurus) in the public waters of Kampar Regency. The study was conducted in January 2022 in the public waters of Kampar Regency. The data used consists of primary data and secondary data, while the analysis was carried out by RAPFISH method. The dimensions used in this study consist of ecological, economic, social, institutional and technological. The results of the analysis show that the utilization of baung fish resources in the public waters of Kampar Regency is less sustainable with a multidimensional index value of 46.21 percent. The sustainability status in this less sustainable category requires the intervention of stakeholders in management can warrant the sustainability of baung fish in Kampar Regency.
Incongruent gray matter atrophy and functional connectivity of striatal subregions in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Li Huizi , Xiong Lingchuan , Xie Teng , Wang Zhijiang , Li Tao , Zhang Haifeng , Wang Luchun , Yu Xin , Wang Huali
Published: December 2022

Previous studies on the striatum demonstrated that it is involved in the regulation of cognitive function and psychiatric symptoms in patients with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD). Multiple lines of evidence have shown that striatal subregions have their own functions. However, the results of the existing studies on striatal subregions are inconsistent and unclear. In this study, we found that structural imaging analysis revealed that the bvFTD patients had smaller volumes of striatal subregions than the controls. We found that the degree of atrophy varied across the striatal subregions. Additionally, the right striatal subregions were significantly more atrophic than the left in bvFTD. Functional imaging analysis revealed that bvFTD patients exhibited different changed patterns of resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) when striatal subregions were selected as regions of interest (ROI). The RSFC extending range on the right ROIs was more significant than on the left in the same subregion. Interestingly, the RSFC of the subregions extending to the insula were consistent. In addition, the left dorsolateral putamen may be involved in executive function regulation. This suggests that incongruence in striatal subregions may be critical to the bvFTD characteristics.
Altered single-subject gray matter structural networks in social anxiety disorder
Authors: Chen Ying , Yang Xun , Zhang Xun , Cao Hengyi , Gong Qiyong
Published: December 2022

Previous fMRI studies have reported more random brain functional graph configurations in social anxiety disorder (SAD). However, it is still unclear whether the same configurations would occur in gray matter (GM) graphs. Structural MRI was performed on 49 patients with SAD and on 51 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HC). Single-subject GM networks were obtained based on the areal similarities of GM, and network topological properties were analyzed using graph theory. Group differences in each topological metric were compared, and the structure–function coupling was examined. These network measures were further correlated with the clinical characteristics in the SAD group. Compared with controls, the SAD patients demonstrated globally decreased clustering coefficient and characteristic path length. Altered topological properties were found in the fronto-limbic and sensory processing systems. Altered metrics were associated with the illness duration of SAD. Compared with the HC group, the SAD group exhibited significantly decreased structural–functional decoupling. Furthermore, structural–functional decoupling was negatively correlated with the symptom severity in SAD. These findings highlight less-optimized topological configuration of the brain structural networks in SAD, which may provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying the excessive fear and avoidance of social interactions in SAD.
Effects of paternal methionine supplementation on sperm DNA methylation and embryo transcriptome in sheep
Authors: Townsend Jessica , Braz Camila U , Taylor Todd , Khatib Hasan
Published: December 2022

Environmental effects on gene expression and offspring development can be mediated by epigenetic modifications. It is well established that maternal diet influences DNA methylation patterns and phenotypes in the offspring; however, the epigenetic effects of paternal diet on developing offspring warrants further investigation. Here, we examined how a prepubertal methionine-enriched paternal diet affected sperm DNA methylation and its subsequent effects on embryo gene expression. Three treatment and three control rams were bred to seven ewes, and blastocysts were flushed for RNA extraction. Semen was collected from all rams and submitted for reduced representation bisulfite sequencing analysis. In total, 166 differentially methylated cytosines were identified in the sperm from treatment versus control rams. Nine genes were found to be differentially expressed in embryos produced from treatment versus control rams, and seven differentially methylated cytosines in the sperm were found to be highly correlated with gene expression in the embryos. Our results demonstrate that sperm methylation differences induced by diet may influence fetal programming.
Ventricular septal defect following port-access mechanical mitral valve replacement
Authors: Berk Thirza A , de Kroon Thomas L , Swaans Martin J , van Putte Bart P
Published: December 2022

Interventricular septum defects are a known complication after an aortic valve replacement, but not after mitral surgery. We present a case of a 65-year-old female who underwent unsuccessful mitral valvuloplasty through port-access surgery, followed by uneventful mechanical bioprosthesis replacement. Postoperatively, the patient experienced multiple arrhythmias and recovered poorly. A systolic murmur led to echocardiography, showing an interventricular septum rupture. This was closed with 2 polypropylene pledgeted mattress sutures, via the right atrium and tricuspid valve through midsternal access. The authors believe that the most likely cause is tearing of 2 deeply placed adjacent sutures in the septum, creating localized weakening of the septum susceptible to further rupture. We therefore underline the importance of adequate exposure, especially at the notorious anterior annulus.
Remnant cholesterol in patients admitted for acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Cordero Alberto , Alvarez-Alvarez Belén , Escribano David , García-Acuña José Mª , Cid-Alvarez Belén , Rodríguez-Mañero Moisés , Quintanilla Mª Amparo , Agra-Bermejo Rosa , Zuazola Pilar , González-Juanatey José R
Published: December 2022

Background

Remnant cholesterol has been identified as one of leading lipid values associated with the incidence of coronary heart disease. There is scarce evidence on its distribution and prognostic value in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients.

Methods and results

We included all consecutive patients admitted for ACS in two different centres. Remnant cholesterol was calculated by the equation: total cholesterol minus LDL cholesterol minus HDL cholesterol, and values ≥30 were considered high. Among the 7479 patients, median remnant cholesterol level was 28 mg/dL (21–39), and 3429 (45.85%) patients had levels ≥30 mg/dL. Age (r: −0.29) and body mass index (r: 0.44) were the variables more strongly correlated. At any given age, patients with overweigh or obesity had higher levels. In-hospital mortality was 3.75% (280 patients). Remnant cholesterol was not associated to higher in-hospital mortality risk (odds ratio: 0.89; P = 0.21). After discharge (median follow-up of 57 months), an independent and linear risk of all-cause mortality and heart failure (HF) associated to cholesterol remnant levels was observed. Remnant cholesterol levels >60 mg/dL were associated to higher risk of mortality [hazard ratio (HR): 1.49 95% CI 1.08–2.06; P = 0.016], cardiovascular mortality (HR: 1.49 95% CI 1.08–2.06; P = 0.016), and HF re-admission (sub-HR: 1.55 95% CI 1.14–2.11; P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Elevated remnant cholesterol is highly prevalent in patients admitted for ACS and is inversely correlated with age and positively with body mass index. Remnant cholesterol levels were not associated to higher in-hospital mortality risk, but they were associated with higher long-term risk of mortality and HF.
A novel narnavirus is widespread in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and impacts multiple host phenotypes
Authors: Vijayraghavan Sriram , Kozmin Stanislav G , Xi Wen , McCusker John H
Published: December 2022

RNA viruses are a widespread, biologically diverse group that includes the narnaviridiae, a family of unencapsidated RNA viruses containing a single ORF that encodes an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the 20S and 23S RNA viruses are well-studied members of the narnaviridiae, which are present at low intracellular copy numbers, unless induced by stress or unfavorable growth conditions, and are not known to affect host fitness. In this study, we describe a new S. cerevisiae narnavirus that we designate as N1199. We show that N1199 is uniquely present as a double-stranded RNA at a high level relative to other known members of this family in 1 strain background, YJM1199, and is present as a single-stranded RNA at lower levels in 98 of the remaining 100-genomes strains. Furthermore, we see a strong association between the presence of high level N1199 and host phenotype defects, including greatly reduced sporulation efficiency and growth on multiple carbon sources. Finally, we describe associations between N1199 abundance and host phenotype defects, including autophagy.
H2S-mediated balance regulation of stomatal and non-stomatal factors responding to drought stress in Chinese cabbage
Authors: Zhang Wenze , Wang Lei , Zhang Liping , Kong Xiangqun , Zhang Jiao , Wang Xin , Pei Yanxi , Jin Zhuping
Published: December 2022

Increased evidence has shown that hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a novel gasotransmitter, could enhance drought resistance in plants by inducing stomatal closure, with concurrent enhancement of photosynthetic efficiency, but little is known about the mechanism behind this contradictory phenomenon. This study examined the regulating mechanism of H2S in response to drought stress from stomatal and non-stomatal factors in Chinese cabbage. The results showed that exogenous H2S could increase the accumulation of photosynthetic pigments and alleviate the damage caused by drought stress. It also regulated the expression in transcriptional level and the activity of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (BrRuBisCO) under drought stress. The large subunit of BrRuBisCO was found to be modified by S-sulfhydration, which might be the reason for its increased enzyme activity. The fluxes of Cl−, K+, and H+ in the guard cells were detected by non-invasive micro-test techniques while under drought stress. The results indicated that H2S signaling induced a transmembrane Cl− and H+ efflux and inhibited K+ influx, and the Cl− channel was the main responders for H2S-regulated stomatal movement. In conclusion, H2S signal not only activated the ion channel proteins located in the guard cell membrane to induce stomatal closure, but also regulated the transcriptional expression and the activity of RuBisCO, a non-stomatal factor to enhance the photosynthetic efficiency of leaves. There is therefore a beneficial balance between the regulation of H2S signaling on stomatal factors and non-stomatal factors due to drought stress, which needs to be better understood to apply it practically to increase crop yields.
Dietary medium-chain fatty acid and Bacillus in combination alleviate weaning stress of piglets by regulating intestinal microbiota and barrier function
Authors: Jiao Shuai , Zheng Zhenhua , Zhuang Yimin , Tang Chuanlan , Zhang Naifeng
Published: December 2022

The present study evaluated the effects of dietary medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA) and Bacillus on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant capacity, colonic fermentation, and microbiota of weaning piglets. A total of 400 weaned piglets were randomly divided into 4 treatments, with 10 replicates per treatment and 10 pigs per replicate. The treatment included: basal diet (control, CON), basal diet with 0.588 g/kg MCFA (MCF), basal diet with 1.3 × 109 CFU/kg Bacillus (BAC), and basal diet with 0.588 g/kg MCFA and 1.3 × 109 CFU/kg Bacillus (SYN). Compared with CON group, the average daily gain of MCF and SYN in the early (1 to 9 d) and whole stage (1 to 36 d) of trail were improved (P < 0.05), the feed to gain ratio of MCF in later (10 to 36 d) and whole stage of trial were decreased (P < 0.05), and the diarrhea rate of SYN in the early stage (1 to 9 d) of trial decreased (P < 0.05). The digestibility of dry matter, ether extract, acid detergent fiber digestibility of MCF were decreased (P < 0.05) compared with CON. The serum d-lactic acid in MCF, BAC, and SYN were lower (P < 0.05) compared with CON group. Compared with CON group, the contents of total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase were greater (P < 0.05), whereas the content of malondialdehyde and the contents of colonic isobutyrate and isovalerate were lower (P < 0.05) in MCF. The microbial Shannon and Simpson diversity was lower in MCF (P < 0.05) than that in BAC and SYN. The relative abundance of Prevotella was greater (P < 0.05), whereas the Treponema and Oscillibacter were lower (P < 0.05) in MCF than that in BAC and SYN. In addition, the metabolic pathways of bacteria such as pentose phosphate pathway, adenosine nucleotides degradation II were enhanced (P < 0.05), whereas the pathways such as incomplete reductive TCA cycle, and TCA cycle IV (2-oxoglutarate decarboxylase) were decreased (P < 0.05) in MCF compared with BAC. The results indicated that dietary MCFA and Bacillus in combination improved the intestinal barrier function of piglets by changing the intestinal microbiota and its metabolic function, and finally alleviated the diarrhea rate in early weaning stage and improved growth performance in whole trial period. In addition, MCFA was effective in improving feed efficiency and antioxidant capacity of piglets.
Commuting time and the gender gap in labor market participation
Authors: Farré Lídia , Jofre-Monseny Jordi , Torrecillas Juan
Published: December 2022

In this article, we investigate the contribution of increasing travel times to the persistent gender gap in labor market participation. In doing so, we estimate the effect of commuting times on the labor supply of men and women in the USA using microdata from the censuses of the last two decades. To address endogeneity concerns, we adopt an instrumental variables approach that exploits the shape of cities as an exogenous source of variation for travel times. Our estimates indicate that a 10-min increase in commuting time decreases the probability of married women participating in the labor market by 4.4 percentage points. In contrast, the estimated effect on men is small and statistically insignificant. When exploring potential mechanisms behind the gender asymmetry in our results, we do not find evidence that differences in labor market productivity within couples contribute to the larger penalty of commuting times on women. However, we do find that the negative effect on women increases with the number of children and is larger among those originating from countries with more gendered social norms. Based on this evidence, we conclude that in a context of increasing commuting costs the presence of gender norms that attribute to women the role of main caregivers may prevent gender convergence.
Ommochrome Wing Pigments in the Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)
Authors: Forman Kyri A , Thulin Craig D
Published: December 2022

Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) use bright orange coloration to warn off predators as well as for sexual selection. Surprisingly the underlying pigment compounds have not been previously characterized. We used LCMS and fragmentation MS (including MSMS and MSn) of extracted pigments from nonmigratory summer-generation female monarch forewings to identify and provide relative quantitation of various orange pigments from D. plexippus. We observed seven ommochrome pigments, with xanthommatin and decarboxylated xanthommatin being the most abundant followed by xanthommatin methyl ester. Among the seven pigments, we also observed molecules that correspond to deaminated forms of these three amine-containing pigments. To the best of our knowledge, these deaminated compounds have not been previously discovered. A seventh pigment that we observed was α-hydroxyxanthommatin methyl ester, previously described in other nymphalid butterflies. We also show that chemical reduction of pigment extracts results in a change of their color from yellow to red, concomitant with the appearance of dihydro-xanthommatin and similarly reduced forms of the other pigment compounds. These findings indicate that monarchs may employ differences in the redox states of these pigments in order to achieve different hues of orange.
“Accompanied Only by My Thoughts”: A Kantian Perspective on Autonomy at the End of Life
Authors: Elsner Anna Magdalena , Rampton Vanessa
Published: December 2022

Within bioethics, Kant’s conception of autonomy is often portrayed as excessively rationalistic, abstract, and individualistic, and, therefore, far removed from the reality of patients’ needs. Drawing on recent contributions in Kantian philosophy, we argue that specific features of Kantian autonomy remain relevant for medical ethics and for patient experience. We use contemporary end-of-life illness narratives—a resource that has not been analyzed with respect to autonomy—and show how they illustrate important Kantian themes, namely, the duty to know oneself, the interest in elaborating universalizable principles, and the emphasis on ideals as points of orientation that guide behavior without ever being fully realized. As Kant does, the patient-authors discussed here perceive the end of life as a moment to reflect on the constitutive principles which have governed that life, thereby offering a privileged moment to pursue self-knowledge. We argue that bioethical conceptions of autonomy stand to gain if they revise their conception of Kantian moral philosophy as too formal, abstract, and detached from emotions and personal relationships to be helpfully applied.
The endosome as an effector target to mediate plant immunity?
Authors: Reilly Aisling , Feechan Angela
Published: December 2022

This article comments on:

Liao W, Nielsen ME, Pedersen C, Xie W, Thordal-Christensen H. 2023. Barley endosomal MONENSIN SENSITIVITY1 is a target of the powdery mildew effector CSEP0162 and plays a role in plant immunity. Journal of Experimental Botany 74, 118–129.
Mass Poisoning From Ethylene Glycol at a U.S. Military Base
Authors: Shah Nina , Khayat Maurice , Owshalimpur David , Banda Michelle , Munoz Jesus , White William C , Forster Benjamin M , Petteys Sarah K , Sullivan Scott B , Watson Maura , King Joshua D
Published: December 2022

Ethylene glycol (EG) toxicity is an important cause of toxic alcohol poisoning in the USA with over 5,000 exposures reported annually. While classically characterized by solitary accidental or intentional ingestions, mass toxic alcohol poisoning outbreaks and more rarely collective consumptions (typically of methanol) have been described. We describe an ethylene glycol poisoning from collective ingestion that involved soldiers presenting at William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso, Texas. Eleven soldiers presented to the emergency department over a 12-h period after ingestion of an unknown substance. The first two patients exhibited severe neurologic symptoms, while the remainder were asymptomatic. As serum EG levels were not immediately available, treatment decisions were based on surrogate laboratory values. Two patients received immediate hemodialysis, and fomepizole (FOM) because of severe acidosis with elevated anion and osmolal gaps. These patients developed acute kidney injury with renal recovery within a 3-week period. Two patients with elevated lactate received bicarbonate-based intravenous (IV) fluids and FOM. Two patients received IV fluids only and required prolonged observation for worsening acidosis and/or acute kidney injury. Five patients with normal laboratory values were treated with IV fluids and observation. All patients received cofactors including thiamine and pyridoxine. All patients survived. The outbreak occurred in the setting of limited dialysis resources, limited FOM availability, and in a resource-limited community. Additional guidelines are needed to determine allocation of limited resources, optimal dialysis and FOM treatment course, and comorbid conditions, which may prolong recovery.
Parietal composition of Lichtheimia corymbifera: Differences between spore and germ tube stages and host-pathogen interactions
Authors: Lecointe Karine , Coulon Pauline , Krzewinski Frédéric , Charlet Rogatien , Bortolus Clovis , Sendid Boualem , Cornu Marjorie
Published: December 2022

The molecular composition and structural organization of the cell wall of filamentous fungi underlie the ability of the host to identify them as pathogens. Although the organization of the fungal cell wall, composed of 90% polysaccharides, is similar from one fungus to another, small variations condition their ability to trigger pattern recognition receptors. Because the incidence of mucormycosis, an emerging life-threatening infection caused by the species of the order Mucorales is increasing worldwide, the precise composition of the cell wall of two strains of Lichtheimia corymbifera was investigated in the early growth stages of germination (spores and germ-tubes) using trimethylsilylation and confocal microscopy. This study also characterizes the response of THP-1 cells to Mucorales. The study identified the presence of uncommon monosaccharides (fucose, galactose, and glucuronic acid) whose respective proportions vary according to the germination stage, revealing early parietal reorganization. Immunofluorescence studies confirmed the exposure of β-glucan on the surface of swollen spores and germ-tubes. Both spores and germ-tubes of L. corymbifera promoted an early and strong pro-inflammatory response, through TLR-2. Our results show the singularity of the cell wall of the order Mucorales, opening perspectives for the development of specific diagnostic biomarkers.
Interpretation of radio afterglows in the framework of the standard fireball and energy injection models
Authors: Levine D , Dainotti M , Fraija N , Warren D , Chandra P , Lloyd-Ronning N
Published: December 2022

Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs) are panchromatic, highly energetic transients whose energy emission mechanism is still debated. One of the possible explanations is the standard fireball model, which can be tested with the closure relations (CRs), or relations between the temporal and spectral indices of a GRB. To test these, we compile an extensive sample of radio afterglow light curves (LCs) that span from 1997 to 2020, the most comprehensive analysis of GRBs with radio observations to date. We fit 202 LCs from 82 distinct GRBs with a broken power law, obtaining a sample of 26 that display a clear break and a sub-sample of 14 GRBs that present a radio plateau. We test these samples against CRs corresponding to a constant-density interstellar medium (ISM) or a stellar wind medium in both fast- and slow-cooling regimes, as well as three additional density profiles, k = 1, 1.5, 2.5, following n ∝r−k, and consider sets of CRs both with and without energy injection. We find that 12 of the 26 GRBs (46 per cent), of which 7/12 present a radio plateau, fulfill at least one CR in the sets tested, suggesting our data are largely incompatible with the standard fireball model. Of the fulfilled CRs, the most preferred environment is the ISM, SC, νm < ν < νc without energy injection. Our results are consistent with previous studies that test the standard fireball model via the CRs in radio.