bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and characterization of pearl millet (AHB 1200) starch nanoparticle‐based edible films: A paradigm shift in food packaging
Authors: Chavan Prafull , Singh Gurvendra Pal , Aayush Krishna , Sharma Somesh , Chauhan Pankaj Kumar , Thory Rahul , Shandilya Mamta , Kumar Deepak
Published: March 2024

Pearl millet, known for its adaptability to challenging agro‐climatic conditions, emerges as a valuable candidate for biopolymer‐based packaging. The AHB 1200 cultivar, distinguished by its high starch content, provides a reliable source for biopolymer extraction. The conversion of pearl millet starch into nanoparticles by acid hydrolysis represents a cutting‐edge method to enhance biopolymeric materials. The inclusion of these nanoparticle concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 5%, and 10%) into the film results in improved mechanical characteristics, reduced water permeability, and increased biodegradability. Furthermore, the lowered water solubility and reduced water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) further underscore their positive contributions. This study comprehensively examines various film properties, encompassing WVTR from 7.23 ± 0.06 to 4.57 ± 0.08 g/m2/s, moisture content, solubility from 35.29 ± 0.51% to 30.09 ± 0.15%, burst strength from 1102.11 ± 0.99 g to 1535.71 ± 0.63 g, thermal stability, and biodegradability from 65.16% to 92.89%. The findings highlight the notable advancements achieved through the integration of starch nanoparticles.

Practical applications

Pearl millet (AHB 1200) starch nanoparticle‐based edible films offer a versatile solution for specialized food packaging needs because of their compatibility with various food types, dairy products, fresh produce, and so on. These films act as a protective barrier and maintain product freshness during storage and transit. It also has enhanced mechanical strength and tear resistance and provides vacuum‐sealed packaging, ensuring an extended shelf life. Beyond their functional benefits, these edible films present an opportunity for branding and marketing differentiation. The films made with pearl millet have an earthy, natural appearance that fits with today's customer inclination for sustainable and environmentally friendly goods. This allows manufacturers to leverage the films as a means of conveying their commitment to environmentally friendly practices, enhancing their brand image and consumer loyalty. Furthermore, the biodegradability of these films is preferred over plastic waste. They offer a viable alternative to traditional plastic packaging, aligning with global initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of packaging materials.
The dynamics of B‐cell reconstitution post allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A real‐world study
Authors: Zhou Guangyu , Zhan Qian , Huang Lingle , Dou Xi , Cui Jin , Xiang Lin , Qi Yuhong , Wu Sicen , Liu Lin , Xiao Qing , Chen Jianbin , Tang Xiaoqiong , Zhang Hongbin , Wang Xin , Luo Xiaohua , Ren Guosheng , Yang Zesong , Liu Lanxiang , Yan Xinyu , Luo Qin , Pei Caixia , Dai Yulian , Zhu Yu , Zhou Hao , Ren Guilin , Wang Li
Published: March 2024

Background

The immune reconstitution after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is crucial for preventing infections and relapse and enhancing graft‐versus‐tumor effects. B cells play an important role in humoral immunity and immune regulation, but their reconstitution after allo‐HSCT has not been well studied.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed the dynamics of B cells in 252 patients who underwent allo‐HSCT for 2 years and assessed the impact of factors on B‐cell reconstitution and their correlations with survival outcomes, as well as the development stages of B cells in the bone marrow and the subsets in the peripheral blood.

Results

We found that the B‐cell reconstitution in the bone marrow was consistent with the peripheral blood (p = 0.232). B‐cell reconstitution was delayed by the male gender, age >50, older donor age, the occurrence of chronic and acute graft‐versus‐host disease, and the infections of fungi and cytomegalovirus. The survival analysis revealed that patients with lower B cells had higher risks of death and relapse. More importantly, we used propensity score matching to obtain the conclusion that post‐1‐year B‐cell reconstitution is better in females. Meanwhile, using mediation analysis, we proposed the age‐B cells‐survival axis and found that B‐cell reconstitution at month 12 posttransplant mediated the effect of age on patient survival (p = 0.013). We also found that younger patients showed more immature B cells in the bone marrow after transplantation (p = 0.037).

Conclusion

Our findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the management of B‐cell reconstitution and improving the efficacy and safety of allo‐HSCT.
Key book in my education: Hegel's The Phenomenology of Spirit
Authors: VALVERDE MARIANA
Published: March 2024

This article is a contribution to the occasional series dealing with a major book that has influenced the author. Previous contributors include Stewart Macaulay, John Griffith, William Twining, Carol Harlow, Geoffrey Bindman, Harry Arthurs, André‐Jean Arnaud, Alan Hunt, Michael Adler, Lawrence O. Gostin, John P. Heinz, Roger Brownsword, Roger Cotterrell, Nicola Lacey, Carol J. Greenhouse, David Garland, Peter Fitzpatrick, David Nelken, Lynn Mather, and Terence C. Halliday.
Blood pressure in hyperthyroid cats before and after radioiodine treatment
Authors: Stammeleer Lisa , Xifra Pilar , Serrano Sara I. , Rishniw Mark , Daminet Sylvie , Peterson Mark E.
Published: March 2024

Background

Hyperthyroid cats commonly have systemic hypertension, with a reported prevalence of 7% to 48%. Although hypertension might be expected to resolve once treatment restores euthyroidism, it can persist or only first develop after treatment.

Objectives

To determine the proportion of hyperthyroid cats with hypertension (systolic blood pressure [SBP] ≥160 mm Hg), persistence or first development of hypertension after successful radioiodine treatment, and correlation of post‐treatment hypertension with azotemia or hypothyroidism.

Animals

Four hundred one hyperthyroid nonazotemic cats were included in the study.

Methods

Prospective, cross‐sectional and before‐and‐after studies. All hyperthyroid cats had SBP measured by Doppler; 255 had SBP rechecked 6 months after successful radioiodine (131I) treatment.

Results

Of untreated hyperthyroid cats, 108/401 (27%) were hypertensive. A higher proportion of hypertensive cats were nervous/excited compared with normotensive cats (47% vs 12%; P < .001). Of the initially hypertensive cats, 87/108 cats were reexamined after 131I treatment; 43/87 (49%) cats normalized SBP, whereas 44/87 (51%) remained hypertensive. Of the initially normotensive cats, 16/168 (9.5%) first developed hypertension after successful 131I treatment. 7/60 (12%) of the 131I‐treated hypertensive cats were azotemic and 9/60 (15%) were hypothyroid. A higher proportion of cats remaining hypertensive had nervous/excited demeanor than did normotensive cats (50% vs 17%; P < .001).

Conclusions/Clinical Importance

Hypertension, when present, resolves in many hyperthyroid cats after successful treatment. Hyperthyroid cats uncommonly develop new hypertension after treatment. Persistent or newly detected hypertension was unrelated to azotemia or iatrogenic hypothyroidism. More frequently perceived nervousness/anxiety in radioiodine‐treated hypertensive cats suggests that many of these cats might have “situational” hypertension, as hyperthyroid‐induced hypertension should resolve after treatment.
Risk factors and implications associated with ultrasound‐diagnosed nephrocalcinosis in cats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Tang Pak‐Kan , Geddes Rebecca F. , Chang Yu‐Mei , Jepson Rosanne E. , van den Broek Dirk Hendrik Nicolaas , Lötter Nicola , Elliott Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Background

Microscopic nephrocalcinosis is a common pathological feature of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats. Detection of macroscopic nephrocalcinosis using ultrasonography and its implications remain unexplored.

Objectives

Identify risk factors associated with ultrasound‐diagnosed nephrocalcinosis and evaluate the influence of nephrocalcinosis on CKD progression.

Animals

Thirty‐six euthyroid client‐owned cats with CKD.

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Cats with CKD with and without ionized hypercalcemia were enrolled for renal ultrasonography. Cats were categorized according to the presence or absence of ultrasound‐diagnosed nephrocalcinosis. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify nephrocalcinosis risk factors. The influence of nephrocalcinosis on CKD progression was assessed using linear mixed models.

Results

Ultrasound‐diagnosed nephrocalcinosis was evident in 61% of CKD cats overall, with increased prevalence (81%) in those with hypercalcemia. At enrollment, higher blood ionized calcium concentration (odds ratio [OR], 1.27 per 0.1 mg/dL; P = .01), plasma phosphate concentration (OR, 1.16 per 0.1 mg/dL; P = .05), plasma creatinine concentration (OR, 1.29 per 0.1 mg/dL; P = .02) and alanine aminotransferase activity (OR, 2.08 per 10 U/L; P = .04) were independent nephrocalcinosis risk factors. The rate of change in log‐transformed fibroblast growth factor‐23 differed significantly between groups (P = .04). Cats with CKD and nephrocalcinosis had increasing plasma creatinine concentrations (.03 ± .01 mg/dL/month; P = .04) and phosphate concentrations (.06 ± .02 mg/dL/month; P < .001) and decreasing body weight (.02 ± .01 kg/month; P < .001) over time.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Nephrocalcinosis is prevalent in cats with CKD, especially in those with hypercalcemia. This pathological feature appears to be associated with CKD progression in cats.
Space weathering, grain size, and metamorphic heating effects on ordinary chondrite spectral reflectance parameters
Authors: MacLennan Eric M. , Emery Joshua P. , Lucas Michael P. , McClure Lucas M. , Lindsay Sean S.
Published: March 2024

The exposure to irradiation from high‐energy particles alters the reflectance properties of asteroid surfaces and is referred to as space weathering. This process leads to an increase in spectral slope in visible and near‐infrared wavelengths. However, changes in the regolith particle size, which can vary dramatically among the asteroid population, are known to influence the spectral properties of meteorites and asteroids. In this context, we investigate the changes in spectral slope and absorption band depths of fresh and irradiated ordinary chondrite meteorites to quantitatively compare the effects of space weathering and grain size variations. To do so, we develop and employ the Spectral Analysis for Asteroid Reflectance Investigation routine that calculates the band parameters of reflectance spectra. We then formulate a parameter called the Space Weathering Index (SWI) that is designed to encapsulate spectral changes due to space weathering. We find that the SWI is strongly dependent on the spectral slope which complicates the interpretation of asteroid spectra in the context of grain size variations and space weathering. We also show that a second parameter, the Band Depth Index, is indicative of petrologic type. Finally, we use a linear discriminant analysis to classify asteroid reflectance spectra into H, L, LL, and unequilibrated ordinary chondrites.
Does she belong here? Women in leadership positions and organizational performance in gendered institutions
Authors: Choi Sungjoo , Ko Yeongjun
Published: March 2024

Gender diversity in leadership positions may not always bring desirable outcomes for an organization as diversity researchers have argued. Female leaders are less likely to contribute to effectiveness of their organization when it is male‐dominated and has strong masculine culture. We tested a nonlinear relationship between gender diversity at the top and organizational performance and the moderating effect of a female critical mass in an organization. Time‐series data were collected from state‐owned enterprises and quasi‐governmental organizations affiliated with the Korean government and were analyzed through fixed‐effects panel regressions. The results show that gender diversity on executive boards has an inverted U‐shaped relationship with organizational performance. The positive effect of gender diversity on executive boards on organizational performance increases up to a certain level, beyond which the diversity effect turns negative. Curvilinear relationships were found to be flatter in more gender‐balanced organizational settings, suggesting that the negative effect of gender diversity at the top is likely to increase to a lesser extent than in male‐skewed settings.
Human diprosopus: Case report of a rare congenital abnormality
Authors: Pontes Maria Teresa Vasconcelos de Melo , Maia Raiane Machado , da Silva Luís Cândido Pinto , Manzi Flávio Ricardo , Lima Izabella Lucas de Abreu
Published: March 2024

Diprosopus is a congenital anomaly in which partial or complete duplication of craniofacial structures occurs. Because it is rare, the mortality rate is high, and information concerning this anomaly is scarce. This study describes a case of human diprosopus in a 9‐year‐old male individual, who has severe complications associated with the central nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive systems. Since birth, he has been monitored in a specialized hospital environment, where he has undergone several surgeries and multidisciplinary treatments. Regarding the craniofacial aspects, he had agenesis of the corpus callosum, floor of the nasal cavity, and floor of the anterior cranial fossa, in addition to the presence of bone dysplasia, ocular hypertelorism and cleft palate with nasal and oral teratoma. Regarding dental characteristics, the patient has duplication of the maxilla, mandible, tongue, and some teeth. After complementary imaging exams, several supernumerary teeth were found, with some being impacted and in complex regions, with an indication for extraction due to the risks of impaction, irruptive deviation, root resorption, and associated cystic or tumoral lesions. Because of the numerous complications, knowledge, and preparation of the entire team is necessary for the correct management of the case.
Safety and Feasibility of Regional Citrate Anticoagulation for Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy With Calcium‐Containing Solutions: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Huang Shan , Sun Guangfeng , Wu Penglong , Wu LinJing , Jiang Hongfei , Wang Xixing , Li Liyuan , Gao Lingling , Meng Fanqi
Published: March 2024

Background

Calcium‐free (Ca‐free) solutions are theoretically the most ideal for regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) in continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). However, the majority of medical centers in China had to make a compromise of using commercially available calcium‐containing (Ca‐containing) solutions instead of Ca‐free ones due to their scarcity. This study was designed to probe into the potential of Ca‐containing solution as a secure and efficient substitution for Ca‐free solutions.

Methods

In this prospective, randomized single‐center trial, 99 patients scheduled for CRRT were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to one of three treatment groups: continuous veno‐venous hemodialysis Ca‐free dialysate (CVVHD Ca‐free) group, continuous veno‐venous hemodiafiltration calcium‐free dialysate (CVVHDF Ca‐free) group, and continuous veno‐venous hemodiafiltration Ca‐containing dialysate (CVVHDF Ca‐containing) group at cardiac intensive care unit (CICU). The primary endpoint was the incidence of metabolic complications. The secondary endpoints included premature termination of treatment, thrombus of filter, and bubble trap after the process.

Results

The incidence of citrate accumulation (18.2% vs. 12.1% vs. 21.2%) and metabolic alkalosis (12.1% vs. 0% vs. 9.1%) did not significantly differ among three groups (p > 0.05 for both). The incidence of premature termination was comparable among the groups (18.2% vs. 9.1% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.582). The thrombus level of the filter and bubble trap was similar in the three groups (p > 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

In RCA‐CRRT for CICU population, RCA‐CVVHDF with Ca‐containing solutions and traditional RCA with Ca‐free solutions had a comparable safety and feasibility.

Trial Registration: ChiCTR2100048238 in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry.
Changes in serum immunoglobulin G glycosylation patterns for antiphospholipid syndrome patients with lectin microarray
Authors: Wang Yifei , Li Siting , Meng Jingjing , Yu Rui , Wang Qian , Tian Xinping , Li Mengtao , Zeng Xiaofeng , Zhao Jiulang , Hu Chaojun
Published: March 2024

Antiphospholipid syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by persistent antiphospholipid antibodies. Immunoglobulin G plays a vital role in disease progression, with its structure and function affected by glycosylation. We aimed to investigate the changes in the serum immunoglobulin G glycosylation pattern in antiphospholipid syndrome patients. We applied lectin microarray on samples from 178 antiphospholipid syndrome patients, 135 disease controls (including Takayasu arteritis, rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease) and 100 healthy controls. Lectin blots were performed for validation of significant differences. Here, we show an increased immunoglobulin G‐binding level of soybean agglutinin (p = 0.047, preferring N‐acetylgalactosamine) in antiphospholipid syndrome patients compared with healthy and disease controls. Additionally, the immunoglobulin G from antiphospholipid syndrome patients diagnosed with pregnancy events had lower levels of fucosylation (p = 0.001, recognized by Lotus tetragonolobus) and sialylation (p = 0.030, recognized by Sambucus nigra I) than those with simple thrombotic events. These results suggest the unique serum immunoglobulin G glycosylation profile of antiphospholipid syndrome patients, which may inform future studies to design biomarkers for more accurate diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome and even for the prediction of clinical symptoms in patients.
The first two years of the use of low titer group O whole blood during French Military overseas operations: A retrospective study
Authors: Riff Jean‐Clément , Duranteau Olivier , Ausset Sylvain , Pasquier Pierre , Fleuriot Estelle , Corominas Vanina , Boutonnet Mathieu
Published: March 2024

Background

On the battlefield, hemorrhage is the main cause of potentially preventable death. To reduce mortality due to hemorrhagic injuries, the French Military Medical Service (FMMS) has deployed low titer group O whole blood (LTOWB) since June 2021 during operation BARKHANE in the Sahel–Saharan strip. Questions persist regarding the circumstances under which the FMMS employs LTOWB during overseas operations.

Study Design

We performed a retrospective analysis of all LTOWB transfused by the FMMS during overseas operations in the Sahel–Saharan strip between June 1, 2021, and June 1, 2023. Information was collected from battlefield forward transfusion sheets.

Results

Over the 2‐year study period, 40 units of LTOWB were transfused into 25 patients. Of the 25 patients, 18 were combat casualties and seven were transfused for non‐trauma surgery. Of the 40 units of LTOWB transfused, 22 were provided during Role 2 care, 11 during tactical medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), and seven in light and mobile surgical units. Among combat casualties, LTOWB was the first blood product transfused in 13 patients. In combat casualties, 6 h post‐trauma, the median ratio of plasma: red blood cells (RBCs) was 1.5, and the median equivalent platelet concentrate (PC) transfused was 0.17. No immediate adverse events related to LTOWB transfusion were reported.

Conclusion

LTOWB is transfused by the FMMS during overseas operations from the tactical MEDEVAC until Role 2 care. Deployment of LTOWB by the FMMS enables an early high‐ratio plasma/RBC transfusion and an early platelet transfusion for combat casualties.
Critical Translanguaging Capability as an Intercultural Pedagogy for Localizing Chinese Language Education
Authors: Zhao Kunpeng
Published: March 2024

The native teachers of Chinese are often perceived as lacking in critical thinking and creativity when it comes to employing culturally appropriate and relatable learning content in their lesson delivery to foreign Chinese language learners. However, there is little research pertaining to the methods  that native teachers of Chinese can use to critically and creatively transform their instructional materials, strategies, and beliefs towards localizing the Chinese language curriculum to better suit students coming from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds. In an attempt to address this issue, a case study methodology, combined with photo-elicitation interviews, was adopted for data collection. It investigated a bilingual Chinese teacher-researcher who critically and flexibly utilized his cultural and linguistic repertoires in enacting translanguaging pedagogy practices in the Australian education context. This study reveals that the native Chinese teacher-researcher, was able to use his critical thinking and creative abilities backed by his indigenous Chinese linguistic and cultural concepts and metaphors to source and select appropriate localized content that facilitates student learning. Such translanguaging practices demonstrated that the native Chinese teacher-researcher’s critical thinking capability helped shape up intercultural pedagogy giving rise to a localized Chinese language curriculum in the Australian education context.
On the Hasse principle for complete intersections
Authors: Northey Matthew , Vishe Pankaj
Published: March 2024

We prove the Hasse principle for a smooth projective variety $X\subset \mathbb {P}^{n-1}_\mathbb {Q}$ defined by a system of two cubic forms $F,G$ as long as $n\geq 39$. The main tool here is the development of a version of Kloosterman refinement for a smooth system of equations defined over $\mathbb {Q}$.
Factores asociados a los desplazamientos de la demanda en salud en Perú, 2007-2021: Un modelo discreto de privatización e informalización
Authors: Arroyo-Laguna Juan , La Chira Villanueva Pedro
Published: March 2024

Introducción: Este estudio tiene como objetivo identificar los factores asociados a los cambios en la demanda de servicios de salud en Perú durante el período 2007-2021.
Objetivo: Analizar las transformaciones ocurridas en la demanda de servicios de salud y en el patrón de utilización en Perú durante el período 2007-2021, con el propósito de identificar variables independientes explicativas de esta evolución.
Metodología: Se trata de un estudio cuantitativo explicativo que utiliza coeficientes de regresión lineal de efectos fijos y la prueba de Chow. Se construyeron amplias bases de datos nacionales a partir de las Encuestas Nacionales de Hogares anuales, se identificaron las tendencias en el sistema de salud peruano, se analizaron los coeficientes de correlación de Pearson entre las variables seleccionadas y se aplicaron siete ecuaciones de regresión para evaluar las mismas.
Resultados: Los coeficientes de regresión mostraron el impacto del gasto público y los tiempos de espera en las consultas en farmacias, así como la apertura de nuevos establecimientos privados de nivel I y su influencia en los tiempos de espera en salud y en el Ministerio de Salud (Minsa), así como en la calidad de atención, la percepción de maltrato y la falta de confianza en los proveedores. Del mismo modo, estos factores influyeron en el aumento de las consultas en farmacias y en el sector privado de nivel primario.
Conclusión: Este estudio, basado en el caso peruano, proporciona información sobre una posible evolución en los países con bajos ingresos y alta informalidad hacia sistemas de salud desinstitucionalizados y más fragmentados.
Procesos comunicativos en la atención odontológica: vivencias de personas Sordas. Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Díaz Mosquera Paulina , Carrascal Vega Angélica , Guevara Angel Valery , Parra Gil Santiago , Salazar Durango Miguel Ángel , Trigos Contreras Angie Loreny , Valencia Gallego Stefania
Published: March 2024

Introducción: Las personas Sordas en Colombia tienen como rasgo identitario la comunicación con otros a través de la lengua de señas colombiana (LSC) y se enfrentan a desafíos de comunicación para acceder a los servicios de salud debido a su pertenencia a una minoría lingüística y cultural. Objetivos: Describir la experiencia de las personas Sordas en los procesos comunicativos durante la atención odontológica. Metodología: Se llevó a cabo un estudio cualitativo en el que 32 personas Sordas, tanto hombres como mujeres mayores de edad, participaron en entrevistas individuales y grupales. Durante estas entrevistas, compartieron momentos en los que fueron atendidos en consulta odontológica. Los datos se codificaron, categorizaron y se elaboraron mapas de relación que permitieron el análisis. Los resultados se compartieron con los participantes a través de material educativo en lengua de señas. Resultados: Los participantes relatan los desafíos que han enfrentado para acceder de manera autónoma a los servicios de salud, así como su experiencia de “no saber” lo que ocurre durante la atención. También mencionan las oportunidades para recibir una atención digna y de calidad, lo que requiere transformaciones en los servicios, los profesionales de la salud y las instituciones de educación superior, en el contexto de la cultura Sorda. Conclusiones: Los procesos comunicativos en la relación entre odontólogos y personas Sordas representan una oportunidad para comprender mejor la experiencia de ser Sordo en los servicios de salud, cuestionar la normalidad en la atención en salud y reconocer la importancia de abordar las diferencias.
Tribo-Erosion Analysis of HVOF Colmonoy-88-Coated Pump Impeller Steel in Coal Ash Particle Slurries
Authors: Singh Gurmeet , Jain Pulkit , Gill Harjot Singh
Published: March 2024

Coal ash slurries hold paramount importance in the service life of the coal and mining industries, significantly impacting their operational efficiency and durability. The literature reveals that the prominent dominating parameters such as rotational speed, concentration, time duration, and particle shape and size have a major impact on erosion wear. This research aims to explore the effects of coal ash slurries on Colmonoy-88-coated pump impeller steel, employing a combination of design of experiments (DOE) and digital image analysis (DIA). Through slurry experiments, it is observed that erosion wear increases non-linearly with an increase in influencing parameters. The particle size emerges as the most significant factor, followed by concentration, speed, and time. Additionally, DIA is leveraged to validate the influence of various erodent particle sizes on the erosion wear of the pump impeller steel. Results indicate that coal particles possess irregular shapes and sizes compared to fly ash and bottom ash, consequently resulting in larger erosion wear due to their lowest circularity factor (0.72). Furthermore, smaller particles exhibit lower erosion wear-rates compared to larger ones. This study sheds light on the intricate dynamics of erosion wear in the context of coal ash slurries, offering insights crucial for optimizing pump impeller steel durability in similar operational environments.
Investigating the association between nitrate dosing and nitrite generation by the human oral microbiota in continuous culture
Authors: Willmott Thomas , Serrage Hannah J. , Cottrell Elizabeth C. , Humphreys Gavin J. , Myers Jenny , Campbell Paul M. , McBain Andrew J.
Published: March 2024

The generation of nitrite by the oral microbiota is believed to contribute to healthy cardiovascular function, with oral nitrate reduction to nitrite associated with systemic blood pressure regulation. There is the potential to manipulate the composition or activities of the oral microbiota to a higher nitrate-reducing state through nitrate supplementation. The current study examined microbial community composition and enzymatic responses to nitrate supplementation in sessile oral microbiota grown in continuous culture. Nitrate reductase (NaR) activity and nitrite concentrations were not significantly different to tongue-derived inocula in model biofilms. These were generally dominated by
Streptococcus
spp., initially, and a single nitrate supplementation resulted in the increased relative abundance of the nitrate-reducing genera
Veillonella
,
Neisseria
, and
Proteus
spp. Nitrite concentrations increased concomitantly and continued to increase throughout oral microbiota development. Continuous nitrate supplementation, over a 7-day period, was similarly associated with an elevated abundance of nitrate-reducing taxa and increased nitrite concentration in the perfusate. In experiments in which the models were established in continuous low or high nitrate environments, there was an initial elevation in nitrate reductase, and nitrite concentrations reached a relatively constant concentration over time similar to the acute nitrate challenge with a similar expansion of
Veillonella
and
Neisseria
. In summary, we have investigated nitrate metabolism in continuous culture oral biofilms, showing that nitrate addition increases nitrate reductase activity and nitrite concentrations in oral microbiota with the expansion of putatively NaR-producing taxa.

IMPORTANCE

Clinical evidence suggests that blood pressure regulation can be promoted by nitrite generated through the reduction of supplemental dietary nitrate by the oral microbiota. We have utilized oral microbiota models to investigate the mechanisms responsible, demonstrating that nitrate addition increases nitrate reductase activity and nitrite concentrations in oral microbiota with the expansion of nitrate-reducing taxa.
A human milk oligosaccharide prevents intestinal inflammation in adulthood via modulating gut microbial metabolism
Authors: Schalich Kasey M. , Buendia Matthew A. , Kaur Harpreet , Choksi Yash A. , Washington M. Kay , Codreanu Gabriela S. , Sherrod Stacy D. , McLean John A. , Peek, Jr. Richard M. , Acra Sari A. , Townsend Steven D. , Yan Fang
Published: March 2024

Observational evidence suggests that human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) promote the growth of commensal bacteria in early life and adulthood. However, the mechanisms by which HMOs benefit health through modulation of gut microbial homeostasis remain largely unknown. 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL) is the most abundant oligosaccharide in human milk and contributes to the essential health benefits associated with human milk consumption. Here, we investigated how 2′-FL prevents colitis in adulthood through its effects on the gut microbial community. We found that the gut microbiota from adult mice that consumed 2′-FL exhibited an increase in abundance of several health-associated genera, including
Bifidobacterium
and
Lactobacillus
. The 2′-FL-modulated gut microbial community exerted preventive effects on colitis in adult mice. By using
Bifidobacterium infantis
as a 2′-FL-consuming bacterial model, exploratory metabolomics revealed novel 2′-FL-enriched secretory metabolites by
Bifidobacterium infantis
, including pantothenol. Importantly, pantothenate significantly protected the intestinal barrier against oxidative stress and mitigated colitis in adult mice. Furthermore, microbial metabolic pathway analysis identified 26 dysregulated metabolic pathways in fecal microbiota from patients with ulcerative colitis, which were significantly regulated by 2′-FL treatment in adult mice, indicating that 2′-FL has the potential to rectify dysregulated microbial metabolism in colitis. These findings support the contribution of the 2′-FL-shaped gut microbial community and bacterial metabolite production to the protection of intestinal integrity and prevention of intestinal inflammation in adulthood.

IMPORTANCE

At present, neither basic research nor clinical studies have revealed the exact biological functions or mechanisms of action of individual oligosaccharides during development or in adulthood. Thus, it remains largely unknown whether human milk oligosaccharides could serve as effective therapeutics for gastrointestinal-related diseases. Results from the present study uncover 2′-FL-driven alterations in bacterial metabolism and identify novel
B. infantis
-secreted metabolites following the consumption of 2′-FL, including pantothenol. This work further demonstrates a previously unrecognized role of pantothenate in significantly protecting the intestinal barrier against oxidative stress and mitigating colitis in adult mice. Remarkably, 2′-FL-enhanced bacterial metabolic pathways are found to be dysregulated in the fecal microbiota of ulcerative colitis patients. These novel metabolic pathways underlying the bioactivities of 2′-FL may lay a foundation for applying individual oligosaccharides for prophylactic intervention for diseases associated with impaired intestinal homeostasis.
The draft genome sequence of
bla
CTX-M-270
-carrying
Kluyvera ascorbata
isolated from human sputum
Authors: Liu Lina , Feng Yu , Wen Hongxia , Zong Zhiyong
Published: March 2024

Kluyvera ascorbata
is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen of the
Enterobacteriaceae
family but remains less studied. We report the draft genome of a
K. ascorbata
clinical strain recovered from human sputum, comprising approximately 5.18 million bases and harboring an intrinsic gene encoding the extended-spectrum β-lactamase CTX-M-270.
The impact of
Lactococcus lactis
KUST48 on the transcription profile of
Aeromonas hydrophila
-infected zebrafish spleen
Authors: Chen Jiayu , Li Qiuyue , Fan Lili , Xie Liqin , Zhang Qilin , Deng Xianyu
Published: March 2024

Aeromonas hydrophila
, an aquatic pathogenic bacterium, has been found to infect many fish species and cause huge aquaculture losses. Antibiotics are the most common drugs used to treat these infections. However, antibiotic abuse can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance. Probiotics have the potential to replace antibiotics for preventing infections. Zebrafish (
Danio rerio
) is a model organism used to study the innate immune system and host-pathogen interactions. Currently, there is little information on how the fish immune system responds to
A. hydrophila
and probiotic treatment. To increase the understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind the zebrafish defense against
A. hydrophila
and provide evidence that antibiotics can be replaced by probiotics, a transcriptome analysis of the zebrafish spleen was conducted 48 hours after infection by
A. hydrophila
, as well as after treatment using
Lactococcus lactis
KUST48 4 hours after infection. A total of 36,499 genes were obtained. There were 3,337 genes found to have significant differential expression between treatment and control groups. According to further annotation and enrichment analysis, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were involved in signal transduction, endocrine system cancer, and the immune system. Insulin resistance disappeared in the zebrafish after treatment. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to confirm the significant regulation of immune defense DEGs, the results of which were consistent with the RNA-sequencing data. These results could serve as a basis for future studies on the immune response to
A. hydrophila
and provide suggestions for probiotic alternatives to antibiotics, which will be of great significance to aquaculture and environmental protection.

IMPORTANCE

In recent years, the unreasonable use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria, antibiotic residues, cross infection, toxic side effects, and so on, which has caused a serious threat to human food safety and life health. In recent years, many studies have demonstrated the potential of probiotics as a substitute for antibiotics, but there is still a lack of understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying probiotic therapy. We conduct a research on the impact of
Lactococcus lactis
KUST48 on the transcription profile of
Aeromonas hydrophila
-infected zebrafish spleen. Mortality of zebrafish infected with
A. hydrophila
was significantly reduced after treatment with
L. lactis
KUST48. Our results can help to strengthen our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of zebrafish and provide a valuable reference for the molecular mechanisms of probiotic therapy.
Cold Atom Gravimeter Based on an Atomic Fountain and a Microwave Transition
Authors: Afanasiev A. E. , Skakunenko P. I. , Balykin V. I.
Published: March 2024

A method based on measuring the shift of Ramsey spectral line in an atomic fountain in the gravitational field has been proposed to develop an atomic gravimeter involving the atomic fountain on ultracold atoms. The accuracy of the measurement of the gravitational acceleration with a fountain microwave frequency standard on Cs atoms is $$\delta g = 2 \times {{10}^{{ - 6}}}g{\text{/}}\sqrt {{{\tau }_{{\text{a}}}}} $$. The achievable accuracy at the integration time τa = 10 000 s is $$\delta g \approx 2 \times {{10}^{{ - 8}}}g \approx 20{\kern 1pt} $$ μGal.
Management of small bowel obstruction in the third trimester
Authors: Ayyash Mariam , Miller Madison , Smith Nicolina , Espy Jeannette , Kim Sun Kwon
Published: March 2024

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) in pregnancy is exceedingly rare. Management of SBO in the third trimester may pose particular challenges, as clinicians must determine whether or not the delivery of the fetus is indicated. In this report, we review the case of a patient in her mid-20’s with no prior surgical history who presented with nausea and vomiting at 34 weeks of gestation and was ultimately diagnosed with an SBO. Following expectant management during the initial 4 days of inpatient admission, the patient subsequently underwent an exploratory laparotomy at 35 weeks without concurrent delivery. She was monitored for the remainder of her pregnancy with non-stress tests to evaluate fetal status and eventually underwent induction of labour at 39 weeks, resulting in a successful vaginal delivery. Herein, we review the challenges related to the diagnosis and management of SBO in pregnancy, as well as the maternal–fetal outcomes in the setting of SBO in the third trimester.
Wunderlich syndrome in a patient with pyelonephritis
Authors: Chia Joshua Chin Howe , Chong Chiara Jiamin , Yong Yan Rong , Tan Poh Yong
Published: March 2024

An elderly female patient with left pyelonephritis developed worsening left flank pain, hypotension and a drop in haemoglobin (Hb) from 97 g/L to 67g/L on the third day of her admission. There was no recent trauma, history of coagulopathy or risk factors for renal malignancy or vascular disease.

A contrasted CT scan of the kidneys revealed a 3.8 cm left renal subcapsular haematoma with no active contrast extravasation. Her atraumatic subcapsular haematoma fulfils two out of three clinical features of Lenk’s triad (acute flank pain, hypovolaemic shock), suggestive of Wunderlich syndrome. Urine and blood cultures grewKlebsiella pneumoniaeand she was managed conservatively with culture-directed antibiotics, fluids and blood products.

Wunderlich syndrome is a rare complication of pyelonephritis and should be considered in patients with pyelonephritis who develop acute severe flank pain, Hb drop and haemodynamic instability. Appropriate medical and surgical therapies need to be instituted early to ensure good outcomes.
Management of contained penetrating cardiac injury in a patient with prior cardiac surgery
Authors: Endo Toyokazu , Peters Matthew G , Hopkins C Danielle , Slaughter Mark S , Miller Keith R
Published: March 2024

Penetrating cardiac injuries usually require emergent surgical intervention. Our patient presented to the trauma centre with multiple stab wounds to the neck, chest, epigastric region and abdomen. She arrived haemodynamically stable, and her initial Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma exam was negative. Her chest X-ray did not show any evident pneumothorax or haemothorax. Due to her injury pattern, she was taken to the operating room for exploratory laparotomy and neck exploration. Postoperatively, she was taken for CT and found to have a contained cardiac rupture. The injury was contained within previous scar tissue from her prior cardiac surgery. Further evaluation revealed that the injury included a penetrating stab wound to the right ventricle and a traumatic ventricular septal defect (VSD). She subsequently underwent a redo sternotomy with the repair of the penetrating stab wound and the VSD. Cardiology, intensive care, trauma surgery and cardiothoracic surgery coordinated her care from diagnosis, management and recovery. This case highlights the challenges in the management of cardiac injuries and the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to care for complex cardiac injuries.
Management of a pregnant woman with a large cervical polyp and moderate genital bleeding in the first trimester
Authors: Saitsu Yoshiaki , Yoneda Satoshi , Fukuta Kaori
Published: March 2024

Polypectomy during pregnancy is known to be a risk for spontaneous late miscarriage or preterm delivery. We managed a pregnant woman in her 30s with a large cervical polyp without polypectomy, and we administered probiotics includingClostridium butyricumand 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate. As a result, she delivered a healthy baby at 38 weeks.
Raynaud’s phenomenon associated with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Che Rahim Mohd Jazman , Lim Jo Anne , Wan Ghazali Wan Syamimee
Published: March 2024

We report a case of Raynaud’s phenomenon in a patient with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). A middle-aged right-handed housewife presented with complaints of severely painful hand discolouration for 1 week, which usually worsened with cold exposure. She was diagnosed with PsA 6 months earlier. Her PsA was well controlled with weekly methotrexate. Physical examination showed no features of scleroderma or skin necrosis of her right hand. Both radial pulses were strong and symmetrical. Her nailfolds were visibly normal. The extractable nuclear antigen panel and other blood investigations were negative for scleroderma and other possible causes of secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon. Occupational or environmental factors were also excluded. Dermatoscope examination of the nailfolds revealed some areas of dilated capillary loops, areas of vascular sparing and proximal nail fold telangiectasia. The diagnosis of secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon was made, and an oral calcium channel blocker was started. The patient had significant improvement in symptoms shortly afterwards.
Drain-site recurrence of an ileocaecal valve adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kowlessar Vikita , O'Brien Stephen , Shabo Wael , El-Masry Sherif
Published: March 2024

Drain-site recurrence following colorectal cancer resection is a rare event and is described in few case reports. The majority of these reports are following minimally invasive surgery. This report describes a case of an isolated drain-site recurrence of primary colorectal cancer in a male patient in his 50s. He previously underwent an open right hemicolectomy and segmental small bowel resection for an obstructing ileocaecal valve adenocarcinoma. This was followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. Two years into surveillance, a redo ileocolic resection was performed for an anastomotic recurrence. While undergoing surveillance imaging, a new deposit was detected at a right-sided surgical drain site. Subsequently, a full thickness en bloc resection was performed. To date, the postoperative course has been uneventful. This case describes a drain-site recurrence from a colorectal primary.
Identifying optimal variables for machine-learning-based fish distribution modeling
Authors: Xu Shaohua , Wang Jintao , Chen Xinjun , Zhu Jiangfeng
Published: March 2024

Machine learning occupies a central position in the modeling of fish distribution patterns. The augmentation of explanatory variables in fish habitat through many kinds of observational methodologies necessitates the discernment of an optimal combination of these variables for fish distribution modeling. We proposed a feature selection technique, recursive feature elimination with cross-validation (RFECV), to determine optimal variables combinations for yellowfin tuna distribution in the Pacific Ocean. Four tree-based models, random forest, eXtreme Gradient Boosting, Light Gradient Boosting Machine, and categorical boosting driven by RFECV, were developed using comprehensive fisheries and biotic/abiotic data. Habitat variables including sea temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, chlorophyll-a concentration, sea salinity, and sea surface height were identified as significant features by all models. The models were trained using the corresponding selected variables, and these trained models were employed to predict the spatiotemporal distribution of yellowfin tuna from 1995 to 2019. The results obtained could inform useful knowledge for the sustainable exploitation of yellowfin tuna in the Pacific Ocean and furnish a benchmark of feature selection for machine-learning-based distribution modeling of other pelagic species.
Soil thermal properties: influence of no-till cover crops
Authors: Haque Md Ariful , Ku Seockmo , Haruna Samuel I.
Published: March 2024

Soil thermal properties, which determine heat transport, can influence soil health parameters and crop productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the 2-year effects of no-till cover crops (CCs) and no-till no cover crop (NC) on soil thermal properties (thermal conductivity (λ), volumetric heat capacity ( CV), and thermal diffusivity ( D)). Two levels of CCs were used for this study: CC versus NC. The CCs included crimson clover ( Trifolium incarnatum L.), hairy vetch ( Vicia villosa Roth.), winter peas ( Lathyrus hirsutus L.), oats ( Avena sativa), winter wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.), triticale ( Triticale hexaploide Lart.), flax ( Linum usitassimum L.), and barley ( Hordeum vulgare L.). Soil samples were collected at 0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm depths and their λ, CV, and D were measured in the laboratory. Additionally, soil organic carbon, bulk density (BD), and volumetric water content (ϴ) at saturation, −33 kPa, and −100 kPa soil water pressures were measured. Results showed that BD was 18% and 14% higher under CC compared with NC management during 2021 and 2022, respectively. Furthermore, ϴ at all measured soil water pressures was slightly higher under CC compared with NC management during both years. As a result, λ and D were significantly higher under NC compared with CC management, while CV was significantly higher under CC compared with NC management, during both years and at all measured soil water pressures. Generally, soil thermal properties were directly proportional to ϴ, suggesting that ϴ may be the most important factor influencing soil thermal properties.
Analysis of propagation of normal shocks in Van der Waals gas: Buongiorno model
Authors: Koteswararao Nilam Venkata , Kishore P. V. N. , Chaturvedi Rahul Kumar
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an analytical investigation into the propagation of a normal shock wave in Van der Waals gas flow, employing the Buongiorno model. It explores the dynamics of this flow type under a shock wave, considering modified Rankine–Hugoniot (RH) jump conditions within the Buongiorno model framework. By solving the RH conditions, this study provides a solution for gas flows with varying nanoparticle concentrations, facilitating an examination of parameter variations under discontinuity. The abstract further emphasizes the graphical representation of velocity coefficient and pressure in adiabatic gas flow during a shock wave, considering compressive and exponential waves. The analysis accounts for nanoparticle concentration and non-ideal parameters.