bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Phytoconstituents and Antimicrobial Properties of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Against Clinical Pathogen
Authors: Amudha N. , Magalingam R. , Selvam K. , Ambikapathy V. , Prakash P.
Published: November 2023

There are numerous therapeutic uses for medicinal plants in treating and managing numerous diseases. Traditional medicinal plantswere mostly needed in the current scenario. The world's warmer and wetlands regions are home to the medicinal herb Bacopa monnieri (L.).It has been utilized for ages in Ayurvedic systems. The Bacopa monnieri was one of the traditional medicinal plants. These are commonlycalled "Brahmi," and the Tamil vernacular name is "Neerbrahmmi." It is easy to cultivate and grow in all seasons. These peculiar activeingredients, also known as memory enhancement and phytoconstituents were enriched in this medicinal plant. The present study focused onanalyzing phytoconstituents and the antimicrobial activity of Bacopa monnieri leaves. The efficacy of phytoconstituents on the antimicrobialactivities concerning minimum inhibitory concentrations was performed with different polar and non-polar solvents of the respective plant.The phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, amino acids, coumarins, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, phlobatannins, quinones, reducing sugars,saponins, steroids, tannins, and terpenoids were recorded, respectively. Antibacterial activity performed with following human clinicalbacteria like Clostridium butyricum, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, and the antifungal activity against humanclinical such as Aspergillus flavus, A.niger, Aspergillus sp., and Penicillium sp. were determined. Among the two solvent extractions, the aqueousextract showed a more significant result than the benzene extract. According to the MIC, the antimicrobial properties of B.monnieriwithdifferent extracts were analyzed. The very minimum concentration has shown better inhibitions against microbes. The present study exploredthe antimicrobial properties of human clinical pathogens. So, the B.monnieriaqueous extract of leaves was suggested for the treatment ofmicrobial infections.
ESTUDO DA VIABILIDADE DE PRODUÇÃO DE REFRIGERANTES E ALIMENTOS PRONTOS PARA CONSUMO APLICANDO ENXÁGUE COM ÁGUA OZONIZADA NA TROCA DE SABORES
Authors: Petter Vanderson Luis , Magagnin Ismael , Müller Thais , Rempel Claudete , Maciel Mônica Jachetti
Published: November 2023

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a viabilidade da produção de refrigerantes e de alimentos prontos para o consumo, aplicando enxágue com água ozonizada na troca de sabores. Assim, essa opção seria uma substituição ao CIP (clean in place) convencional, que consiste em enxágue com água potável (5 minutos), circulação da solução de hidróxido de sódio (NaOH) a 85 ºC (30 minutos), enxágue com água potável (10 minutos) e água ozonizada (5 minutos). Foi aplicado, entre a produção dos refrigerantes e dos alimentos prontos para o consumo ciclos de enxágues de 5, 10 e 15 minutos e analisado as amostras das águas do enxágue, por meio de parâmetros físico-químicos (ATP, pH e Sólidos solúveis totais), microbiológicos (bactérias totais, bolores e leveduras) e sensoriais (sabor, odor e cor) para verificar a eficiência dessa substituição. Percebeu-se diferença nos resultados das análises dos enxágues com água ozonizada para as bebidas sem suco em relação às com suco em sua composição. Sendo que o ciclo de enxágues de 10 minutos revelou índices de aprovação satisfatórios para as bebidas sem suco em sua composição. E com 15 minutos de enxágue com água ozonizada não foi o suficiente para eliminar o residual da bebida com suco em sua composição. Frente aos resultados, pode-se concluir que é possível fazer o uso do enxágue com água ozonizada em refrigerantes sem suco em sua composição, por 10 minutos de contato.
ROADKILL OCCURRENCE OF Cerdocyon thous (Linnaeus, 1766) AND Lycalopex gymnocercus (G. Fisher, 1814) IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL
Authors: Aver Gustavo Francisco , Dal Corno Renata De Boni , Silva Darliane Evangelho , Corrêa Luiz Liberato Costa
Published: November 2023

Despite being important for the country’s development, roads may have impacts on the ecosystems where they occur, as well as the wild populations that live there. Several species are at risk of being run over on the highways, including taxa considered common and abundant. Of these species Crab-eating-fox (Cerdocyon thous) and Pampas-fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) are susceptible to the impacts of highways and as a result this study aims to evaluate the occurrence of roadkills of C. thous and L. gymnocercus in highways in the Araucaria Plateau, Rio Grande do Sul. Monthly surveys were conducted from May / 2016 to April / 2017, along eight sections of state and federal highways of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The surveys were performed in a motor vehicle, searching for carcasses of the target species. 25 animals killed by running over were recorded, 18 were C. thous and seven L. gymnocercus, but no significant difference was observed between the species or sections evaluated. However, the asphalt highways with the highest traffic volume had the highest running over concentrations. The presence of crops along the roads can be attractive to many native species, and the absence of natural barriers facilitates access to the highways, increasing the risk of collision with vehicles. It is important that mitigating measures be implemented on the highways, in order to minimize the running over of wild fauna.
SINTOMAS DE ANSIEDADE E DEPRESSÃO VIVENCIADOS POR ACADÊMICOS DE ENFERMAGEM NA PANDEMIA DA COVID-19
Authors: Ribeiro Stephanie , Batista Portugal Flávia , Dettmann Wandekoken Kallen
Published: November 2023

A pandemia instaurou um contexto de incertezas e era esperado que promovesse a sensação de impotência e tristeza, com repercussões negativas na saúde mental da população geral e dos estudantes universitários. O objetivo deste artigo foi, então, conhecer a prevalência de sintomas sugestivos de ansiedade e depressão entre os estudantes de um curso de Enfermagem na pandemia da COVID-19 e identificar fatores associados. Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo transversal, abrangendo estudantes do curso de Enfermagem em uma instituição de ensino superior localizada na região sudeste do Brasil. Durante o período entre junho e julho de 2020, os estudantes responderam a um questionário on-line semiestruturado, englobando informações sociodemográficas, status de saúde, trajetória acadêmica e histórico de infecção por SARS-CoV-2. Paralelamente, os instrumentos Self-Reporting Questionnaire e Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale foram empregados. A análise dos dados foi conduzida utilizando o software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versão 22. Os participantes majoritários da pesquisa foram do sexo feminino (89,3%) e demonstraram indícios sugestivos de ansiedade (77%) e depressão (83,1%). Ademais, 63,5% relataram adoecimento psíquico anterior, enquanto 50,7% enfrentavam adoecimento psíquico atual. Quanto à infecção pelo novo coronavírus, 6,1% dos estudantes informaram ter sido afetados. Foi identificada, ainda, uma associação significativa entre sintomas indicativos de ansiedade e episódio anterior de adoecimento psíquico (p = 0,042; OR = 0,38). Isso implica que tal histórico pode ser considerado um fator de proteção, sugerindo que a aplicação de estratégias de enfrentamento utilizadas previamente poderia ser uma ferramenta positiva para lidar com os desafios emocionais atuais.
AVALIAÇÃO DO DESENVOLVIMENTO MOTOR DE CRIANÇAS COM SÍNDROME DE DOWN ATENDIDAS NA CLÍNICA-ESCOLA DE FISIOTERAPIA DA UNIVATES
Authors: Vidmar Luana , Grave Magali Quevedo
Published: November 2023

Este estudo objetivou avaliar o desenvolvimento motor grosso de crianças de 4 a 48 meses com Síndrome de Down que receberam atendimento na Clínica-Escola de Fisioterapia da Univates (CEF) por meio do protocolo Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM). Trata-se de um estudo de casos múltiplos, exploratório, descritivo e transversal, de análise quantitativa. A pesquisa contou com uma amostra de 5 crianças, com idades entre 8 e 48 meses (média de 26 meses). Os dados referentes à avaliação pelo GMFM 88 foram analisados de forma descritiva. Todas as crianças apresentaram atraso na aquisição de habilidades motoras grossas ratificando nossa hipótese de que quanto maior a idade da criança com SD, maior é a defasagem encontrada na motricidade ampla esperada para sua faixa etária.
ASSOCIAÇÃO ENTRE NÍVEL DE ATIVIDADE FÍSICA E A PREVALÊNCIA DE DOENÇAS CRÔNICAS NÃO TRANSMISSÍVEIS EM ADULTOS DE ARROIO DO MEIO/RS
Authors: Tiggemann Carlos Leandro , Agostini Scheid Cláudia , Cremonese Cleber
Published: November 2023

A atividade física regular é fundamental na prevenção de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT) e outros fatores de risco. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a associação entre o nível de atividade física e a prevalência de doenças em moradores adultos da cidade de Arroio do Meio/RS. Método: Estudo quantitativo, descritivo e transversal, com 347 indivíduos adultos, moradores da cidade de Arroio do Meio/RS. Realizou-se um questionário online, com três etapas, contendo questões sociodemográficas, sobre uso de medicamentos e sobre o nível de atividade física, utilizando o Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física (IPAQ). Resultados: Após a análise, a maior prevalência de DCNT foi observada no sexo feminino (46,6 vs 24,8%; p≤0,05), sujeitos do grupo mais velho (36 a 59 anos) (52,4% vs 27,4%; p≤0,05), com um maior IMC (62,8% vs 34,6%; p≤0,05), e em indivíduos com menor escolaridade (33,5 vs 54,5%; p≤0,05). Em relação à atividade física, os sujeitos que realizam mais atividade física possuem menor prevalência de ter alguma doença se comparados com indivíduos que fazem menos atividade física (32,2 vs 46,8%; p≤0,05). Conclusão: Indivíduos fisicamente ativos tendem a ter menores chances de desenvolver DCNT. Constatamos que as variáveis consideradas como fatores de risco para maior prevalência de DCNT são as pessoas do sexo feminino com idade superior a 36 anos, com um índice de massa corporal maior ou igual a 30, tendo como fator protetor ter ou estar no ensino superior e ingerir bebida alcoólica moderadamente.
O ACESSO A MEDICAMENTOS HORMONAIS NO CONTEXTO DA SAÚDE DA POPULAÇÃO TRANS: UM PAPEL DO FARMACÊUTICO
Authors: Dos Santos Laiane Luciane , Da Silva Barreto Danielle , Vital Domingos Silva Juliana , Batista da Silva Dayvid
Published: November 2023

O uso de medicamentos também pode ser realizado como adjuvante no processo de transexualização de homens e mulheres transexuais, que por sua vez necessitam da transformação do seu corpo para estar em harmonia consigo próprio. No entanto, serviços médicos especializados para estes pacientes ainda é muito escarço no Brasil, sobretudo no SUS. Diante da dificuldade de acompanhamento médico no processo de transexualização, essa população busca informação na internet ou em transexuais que já fizeram uso de terapias hormonais para este fim sendo dessa forma o tratamento não personalizado e sem acompanhamento do profissional de saúde oferecendo desta forma, sérios riscos a integridade física destes pacientes. Sendo assim, o presente trabalho objetivou abordar a importância do profissional farmacêutico na orientação sobre ação terapêutica, fisiológica e riscos à saúde no uso de medicamentos hormonais por pessoas em processo transexualizador. Foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica narrativa da literatura, para tipo de estudo retrospectivo descritivo foram utilizados artigos científicos descritos nas bases de dados SCIENCE DIRECT, SCIELO, PUBMED, PERIÓDICO CAPES e LILACS. A utilização de artigos no período entre 2012 e 2022, nos idiomas português e inglês. A partir da análise de 13 artigos, foi possível realizar um levantamento dos principais hormônios utilizados e observar que o acesso de forma acompanhada das pessoas transexuais tem diversos desafios como por exemplo a falta de uma rede de apoio qualificada, a falta profissionais multidisciplinares, preconceito e discriminação nos serviços de saúde fazendo com que o uso da hormônioterapia aconteça de forma insegura e irracional, sendo assim foi visto que a participação farmacêutica pode ser eficaz no processo de orientação e avaliação da farmacoterapia afim de evitar problemas relacionados ao uso de medicamentos bem como o uso racional do medicamento que está atrelado a profissão farmacêutica.
IMPACTO DAS MEDIDAS CONTRA COVID - 19 NAS INTERNAÇÕES PEDIÁTRICAS POR DOENÇAS PULMONARES INFECCIOSAS
Authors: Bender Fabiana , Cabrelli Graziela Meneghelli , Kehl Luiz Fernando , De Oliveira Ramatis Birnfeld
Published: November 2023

Introdução: As doenças respiratórias são as principais causas de internação e morte em crianças, entre elas, as pneumonias e as bronquiolites são as mais prevalentes. Gotículas expelidas pela tosse ou espirro e o contato do microrganismo com as mucosas dos olhos, boca e nariz é determinante para a contaminação. A COVID-19 também é uma doença transmitida desta forma e, por isso, compartilha as mesmas medidas preventivas. A intensificação de medidas de prevenção contra a COVID-19 pode impactar na diminuição do número de casos de doenças respiratórias. Objetivo: Investigar o perfil epidemiológico de internações de crianças, internadas no SUS, por doenças pulmonares infecciosas antes e durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Método: É um estudo retrospectivo de prontuários de crianças, entre zero e 12 anos, que foram internadas em um hospital do interior do RS, entre março de 2019 e março de 2021 com CID-10 orrespondentes a doenças pulmonares infecciosas. As internações foram divididas entre os períodos pré-pandemia e durante a pandemia e as variáveis foram analisadas e comparadas entre si. A análise estatística foi realizada no JAMOVI e R Core Team, com p
The competitive strategy of the village unit cooperative: Capability and innovation performance towards competitive advantage
Authors: Sumantri Bambang Agus , Suliyanto Suliyanto , Darmawati Dwita
Published: November 2023

Dynamic capabilities can explain competitive advantage (Pisano, 2017; Teece et al., 1997). And superior business strategies are generally based on innovation (Hacklin et al., 2018). This study aims to examine the role of adaptive creative capabilities in the relationship between dynamic capabilities and innovation performance on competitive advantage. The sample consists of 106 units of analysis. The method used is to test the model and hypotheses using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results of the study show that dynamic capabilities have a positive effect on competitive advantage, innovation performance and adaptive creative capabilities. In addition, adaptive creative capability has a positive effect on innovation performance, but adaptive creative capability has no effect on competitive advantage. In addition, innovation performance has a positive effect on competitive advantage. The limitation of the research is village unit cooperatives (VUC) in 12 districts of East Java Province, Indonesia. This research is the first model to investigate the role of dynamic capabilities, adaptive creative capabilities, and innovation performance on competitive advantage in the Southeast Asian region, especially Indonesia. This study contributes to the literature on VUC management practices. VUC must encourage the effectiveness of dynamic capabilities, adaptive creative capabilities and innovation performance to achieve better competitive advantage.
Exploring Rare Genetic Mutations in PCD: A Study of 8 Turkish Patients with Novel Gene Alterations Coupled by Their Ciliary Beat Frequency and Confocal Microscopy Analyses
Authors: E. Oz , Guloglu Sercan , E. Arslan , Kayalar Ozgecan , N. Konyalilar , Eralp Ela Erdem , Uyan Zeynep , Ata Pinar , Sackesen Cansin , Y. Gokdemir , Karadag Bulent , Girit Saniye , S. Karahuseyinoglu , H. Bayram , O.U. Sezerman
Published: November 2023

Primary ciliary dyskinesia is a rare genetic ciliopathy characterized by
impaired clearance of the airway, leading to recurrent airway infections
and various pulmonary conditions. The underlying cause of PCD is complex
and involves diverse mechanisms. On one hand, advancements in genetic
analysis techniques have significantly contributed to identifying the
mutated genes associated with PCD, which in turn, can aid in
understanding the variable clinical presentations of the disease. On the
other hand, based on the mutated gene, disease manifestation may change
and this makes it more challenging to establish a standardized diagnosis
approach. Hence, it is important to approach it with a comprehensive
perspective. In this study, 8 Turkish individuals with PCD were
subjected to whole-exome sequencing (WES) analysis, as well as other
diagnostic tests such as ciliary beat frequency measurement,
immunofluorescence staining (IF), and confocal microscopy. The findings
from this study not only contribute to the enlightenment of PCD
aetiology but also emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary
approach when diagnosing and understanding this complex genetic
disorder.
Test-guided dietary advice for children with atopic dermatitis: a consensus study
Authors: Garside Ludivine , Boyle Robert , Meyer Rosan , Skypala Isabel , Allen Hilary , Beattie Paula , Dempsey Justine , Doyle Matt , Evans-Howells Helen , Feeney Mary , Ludman Sian , Marrs Tom , Ravenscroft Jane , Stiefel Gary , Umasunthar Thisanayagam , Vyas Deepan , Yerlett Natalie , Walsh Jo , Brown Sara , Ridd Matthew
Published: November 2023

Background: The use of allergy tests to guide dietary exclusions for
disease control in children with atopic dermatitis (AD) is
controversial. We undertook a consensus exercise on how to interpret
skin prick test (SPT) results and dietary history for cow’s milk, hen’s
egg, wheat and soya in children <2 years old with AD. Methods:
Fourteen clinicians from general practice, paediatrics, paediatric
dermatology, paediatric allergy and paediatric dietetics from UK and
Ireland took part in an online modified Delphi study. Over three rounds,
participants gave their anonymous opinions and received individualised
and group feedback. The findings were discussed in an online workshop.
Results: Of 14 symptoms, 12 were identified as relevant to immediate and
7 to delayed allergy. Regarding SPTs, there was consensus over which
allergens to use for wheat and soya but not cow’s milk or hen’s egg; for
all study foods, wheal size was determined as 0-1 mm negative, ≥5mm
sensitised , but between 2-4 mm categorisation varied by food. During
the final workshop, consensus was reached on dietary advice should be
given according to SPT results and dietary history. Conclusion: We
attained consensus on how SPTs combined with dietary history for four
common food allergens should be interpreted in young children under two
years of age with AD. These pragmatic recommendations may support
clinician education, consistency of decision-making and future research.
Prenatal exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid and childhood allergic diseases: a prospective birth cohort study
Authors: Tang Xiaoyu , Chen Qian , Liu Qua-Hua , Chen Mengxue , Jin Shengjie , Zhang Jun , Zhang Jianhua , Hua Li
Published: November 2023

Background Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is widely used in
daily life, however, research has shown its immune suppression function.
Our aim is to investigate the relationship between prenatal exposure to
PFOA and allergic diseases in children. Methods A prospective
birth cohort study involving 648 pregnant women was conducted. Prenatal
information was collected by an interview with the women and from
medical records. Fetal umbilical cord blood was collected, and
concentration of PFOA and genotype of IL-13 rs20541 were detected.
Children were followed at 6, 12 and 24 months and information on the
development of allergic diseases was recorded. Multivariate logistic
regression analysis was used to examine the association between PFOA and
allergic diseases. Stratified analysis was performed based on gender and
genotype of IL-13 rs20541. Results In multivariate adjusted
models, the highest PFOA quartile is associated with odds of atopic
dermatitis (AD) (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.09-2.55), wheezing (OR 4.06, 95% CI
1.30-12.68), and allergic diseases (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.15-2.54). Female
patients with the highest PFOA quartile have a higher odd of AD (OR
2.25, 95% CI 1.20-4.23) and allergic diseases (OR 1.93, 95% CI
1.07-3.46). Patients with GG genotype of IL-13 rs20541 and the highest
PFOA quartile also have a higher odd of AD (OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.41-5.67),
wheezing (OR 15.16, 95% CI 1.38-166.59), and allergic diseases (OR
2.42, 95% CI 1.27-4.61). Conclusions Prenatal exposure to PFOA
increases the risk of developing allergic diseases in children,
especially for the female patients and those with the genotype of IL-13
rs20541 GG.
ChatGPT for use as a resource for providing patient information relating to functional endoscopic sinus surgery -- a questionnaire-based assessment.
Authors: Brennan Laura , Anastasiadou Sofia , Balakumar Ramkishan , Bennett Warren
Published: November 2023

Introduction Ensuring that patients are well-informed in making
health decisions has become increasingly pressing, particularly in light
of resource constraints faced by the NHS. The emergence of artificial
intelligence (AI) and natural language processing technologies, such as
ChatGPT, offers potential solutions for delivering accessible patient
information. This study explores the application of ChatGPT as a patient
information tool, focusing on patients undergoing Functional Endoscopic
Sinus Surgery (FESS) in the UK. Methods To evaluate the
effectiveness of ChatGPT in providing patient information, the authors
devised three common patient queries related to FESS. These questions
were presented to both ChatGPT and three authors (including validation
by a supervising Consultant) to generate a 150-word response. 20
qualified clinicians were blinded to responses and subsequently
completed a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire to evaluate each
response. Results When comparing mean scores between author and
ChatGPT responses, it was found that there was no statistically
significant difference for Accuracy, Completeness, Clarity or
Appropriateness in any of the 1-3 questions asked. When explaining FESS,
ChatGPT responses scored ≥50% on accuracy, clarity and appropriateness.
ChatGPT responses scored lower in all areas when asked to described the
alternatives to surgery. When explaining the risks of surgery, ChatGPTs
responses scored higher on average. Conclusions This study
establishes a foundational assessment of ChatGPT’s potential utility as
a source of patient information within UK ENT departments. Notably, the
study finds no significant disparities in the evaluations of accuracy,
completeness, clarity, and appropriateness between ChatGPT-generated
responses and those crafted by medical experts.
Relevance of gut microbiome research in food safety assessment
Authors: Moreno F. Javier , Garrido-Romero Manuel , Pazos Florencio , Benito Carlos , Borrego-Yaniz Gonzalo , Bowes Cameron , Broll Hermann , Caminero Alberto , Caro Eleonora , Chagoyen Mónica , Chemaly Marianne , Fernández-Dumont Antonio , Gisavi Haris , Gkrintzali Georgia , Khare Sangeeta , Margolles Abelardo , Márquez Ana , MARTIN Javier , Merten Caroline , Montilla Antonia , Muñoz-Labrador Ana , Novoa Jorge , Paraskevopoulos Konstantinos , Payen Cyrielle , Helen Helen , Ruas-Madiedo Patricia , Ruiz Lorena , Sanz Yolanda , Jiménez-Saiz Rodrigo
Published: November 2023

The gut microbiome is indispensable for the host physiological
functioning. Yet, the impact of non-nutritious dietary compounds on the
human gut microbiota and the role of the gut microbes in their
metabolism and potential adverse biological effects have been
overlooked. Identifying potential hazards and benefits would contribute
to protecting and harnessing the gut microbiome’s role in supporting
human health. We discuss the evidence on the potential detrimental
impact of certain food additives and microplastics on the gut microbiome
and health endpoints, with a focus on underlying mechanisms and
causality. We provide recommendations for the incorporation of gut
microbiome science in food risk assessment and identify knowledge and
tools needed to fulfill the gaps. The incorporation of gut microbiome
endpoints to safety assessments, together with well-established toxicity
and mutagenicity studies, might better inform the risk assessment of
certain contaminants in food, and/or food additives.
Engineering an E. coli -based in vivo mRNA manufacturing platform
Authors: Curry Edward , Muir George , Qu Jixin , Kis Zoltán , Hulley Martyn , Brown Adam
Published: November 2023

Synthetic mRNA is currently produced in standardised in vitro
transcription systems. However, this one-size-fits-all approach has
associated drawbacks in supply chain shortages, high reagent costs,
complex product-related impurity profiles and limited design options for
molecule-specific optimisation of product yield and quality. Herein, we
describe for the first time development of an in vivo mRNA
manufacturing platform, utilising an E. coli cell chassis.
Coordinated mRNA, DNA, cell and media engineering, primarily focussed on
disrupting interactions between synthetic mRNA molecules and host cell
RNA degradation machinery, increased product yields
>40-fold compared to standard ‘unengineered’ E. coli
expression systems. Mechanistic dissection of cell factory performance
showed that product mRNA accumulation levels approached theoretical
limits, accounting for ~30% of intracellular total RNA
mass, and that this was achieved via host-cell’s reallocating
biosynthetic capacity away from endogenous RNA and cell biomass
generation activities. We demonstrate that varying sized functional mRNA
molecules can be produced in this system and subsequently purified in
large- or small-scale processes. Accordingly, this study introduces a
new mRNA production technology, expanding the solution space available
for mRNA manufacturing.
The role of venous capacity in fluid retention with Endothelin A antagonism: Mathematical modeling of the RADAR trial
Authors: Yu Hongtao , Greasley Peter , Heerspink Hiddo Lambers , Ambery Philip , Ahlstrom Christine , Hamren Bengt , Khan Anis , Boulton David , Hallow Melissa
Published: November 2023

Background and Purpose: Endothelin-1 (ET1) receptor A (ETA) antagonists
reduce proteinuria and prevent renal outcomes in patients with chronic
kidney disease (CKD), but their utility has been limited because of
associated fluid retention and increased heart failure risk in patients
with left ventricular dysfunction. Understanding mechanisms of fluid
retention could result in solutions that preserve their renoprotective
effects while mitigating fluid retention, but the complexity of the
endothelin system has made identification of the underlying mechanisms
challenging. Approach: We utilized a previously developed mathematical
model of ET-1 kinetics, ETA antagonism, kidney function, and sodium and
water homeostasis to evaluate mechanistic hypotheses of fluid retention
with ETA antagonism. To do this, we simulated the RADAR clinical trial
of atrasentan in patients with type 2 diabetes and CKD, and evaluated
the model’s ability to predict observed decreases in hematocrit, urine
albumin creatinine ratio (UACR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and
estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Key Results: An effect of
ETA antagonism on venodilation and increased venous capacitance was
found to be the critical mechanism necessary to reproduce the
simultaneous decrease in both MAP and hematocrit observed in RADAR.
Conclusions and impact: These findings indicate that fluid retention
with ETA antagonism may not be caused by a direct anti-diuresis effect
within the kidney, but may instead be an adaptive response to
venodilation and increased venous capacity, which acutely tends to
reduce cardiac filling pressure and cardiac output, and that fluid
retention occurs in an attempt to maintain cardiac filling and cardiac
output.
Transcriptomic changes associated with oral immunotherapy for food allergy
Authors: Ashley Sarah , Bosco Anthony , Tang Mimi
Published: November 2023

This review summarises recent advances in characterising the
transcriptional pathways associated with outcomes following Oral
Immunotherapy. Recent technological advances including single-cell
sequencing are transforming the ways in which the transcriptional
landscape is understood. The application of these technologies is still
in its infancy in food allergy but here we summarise current
understanding of gene expression changes following oral immunotherapy
for food allergy and specific signatures underpinning the different
clinical outcomes of desensitisation and remission (sustained
unresponsiveness). T helper 2A cells have been identified as a cell type
which correlates with disease activity and is modified by treatment.
Molecular features at study entry may differentiate individuals who
achieve more positive outcomes during OIT. Recent findings point to T
cell anergy and Type 1 interferon pathways as potential mechanisms
supporting redirection of the allergen-specific immune response away
from allergy towards remission. Despite these developments in our
understanding of immune mechanisms following OIT, there are still
significant gaps. Additional studies examining immune signatures
associated with long term and well-defined clinical outcomes are
required to gain a more complete understanding of the pathways leading
to remission of allergy, in order to optimise treatments and gain
improved outcomes for patients.
Absence of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes in primary biopsy and ulceration are associated with worse progression free survival in early stage cutaneous melanoma: a single center retrospective analysis
Authors: McGrath Kyle , Elliott Tyler , Archibald Vincent , Matich Erica , Galochkina Zhanna , Lee Ji-Hyun , Doonan Bently
Published: November 2023

Background: Recent data suggest that a subset of early stage melanoma
patients may benefit from adjuvant immunotherapy. Objective: To identify
findings in biopsy or surgical pathology reports associated with poor
prognosis in patients diagnosed with stage I and II cutaneous melanoma.
Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of 68 stage I and II
cutaneous melanoma patients treated at our institution from 2010 to
2022. Inclusion criteria were patients with stage I or II melanoma with
both a biopsy and surgical pathology report. The primary outcome of the
study was the prognostic value of biopsy findings on progression free
survival (PFS). Kaplan-Meier and Cox-proportional hazards models were
used to evaluate risk factors for progression. Results: Patients with
ulceration on biopsy had a 16.1x greater risk of progression than those
without ulceration [HR 16.1, 95% CI: 2.60-99.5]. Patients with
absent lymphocytes on biopsy had a 9.5x greater risk of progressing
compared to those with lymphocytes present [HR 9.45, 95% CI:
1.99-44.8]. Ulceration or absent TILs were associated with
significantly worse PFS. Conclusions: Ulceration and absence of TILs on
biopsy are associated with increased risk of progression in stage I and
II melanoma patients.
Examining the purification effect of Euryale ferox on eutrophic rivers along the Huaihe River
Authors: Mao-hua Chen , Yongxue Yang , Kun Liu
Published: November 2023

We conducted a comprehensive analysis to assess the purification effect
of Euryale ferox, a native aquatic plant, on eutrophic rivers in
rural areas along the Huaihe River. This involved simulating variations
in the total nitrogen (TN), ammonia nitrogen (NH -N), total phosphorus (TP), chemical oxygen demand
(COD ), pH, soluble salt content (SSC), and dissolved
oxygen (DO) within the eutrophic river pool. Euryaleferox
was cultivated in a eutrophic river pool within rural areas along the
Huaihe River. Subsequently, an extensive analysis was conducted to
assess the purification effects of Euryaleferox on river
ecosystems. The results indicated that Euryaleferox, an
indigenous aquatic plant in the Huaihe River, exerted a beneficial
purifying influence on eutrophic rivers. This plant demonstrated a
robust capacity to absorb NH -N and
TP, ranging from 95.53% to 98.45% and 99.50% to 99.65%,
respectively, in the water body during its growth, thereby achieving
excellent purification performance. However, the purification of
Euryaleferox for TN and COD in
eutrophic rivers remains unclear. Notably, the pH in the aquatic
environment demonstrated a noteworthy increase from 11.05% to 11.61%,
while the EC value increased from 21.12% to 22%. Additionally, the DO
levels exhibited a substantial increase, ranging from 3.82 to 21.77
times. It is essential to acknowledge that rural rivers are subject to
various influences, including river velocity, submerged vegetation,
aquatic fauna, and human activities. Further observation of practical
applications is vital to comprehensively understand the implications of
these findings.
Enzymatic Conversion of Camellia Seed Oil into Glycerol Esters: Synthesis, Characterization, and Mechanistic Analysis
Authors: Wu Jingzhi , Xiao Jingjing , Nie Suli , Chao Yan , Li Peiwang , Li Changzhu , Xiao Zhihong , Wu Hongmei
Published: November 2023

The conversion of triglycerides in edible oils into diacylglycerols
(DAGs) is of great significance for obtaining products with health
benefits. Camellia seed oil (C-oil), which is rich in oleic acid and
linoleic acid, is an excellent raw material for the production of DAGs.
In this study, the hydrolysis rate reached 87.14% under optimal
hydrolysis conditions (reaction temperature of 60 °C, reaction time 24
h, 30% water content and 4% enzyme addition) with RMIM as catalyst,
and camellia seed oil diacylglycerol (C-DAG) with a content of 62.49%
was also given under optimal esterification conditions (vacuum system,
3% enzyme addition, 2% water addition, reaction temperature of 50 oC,
and substrate molar ratio of free fatty acid to glycerol of 1:1). The
high content of DAG was obtained by a coupled method, which eliminated
the purification steps and reduced production costs. C-oil, and C-DAG
have been characterized by means of GC, TG, DSC, and GC-IMS. Our results
showed that the enzymatic coupling method did not affect the structural
composition of the substances themselves, but did affect the
crystallization and melting properties of the oils. Moreover, the taste
of C-DAG was more delicate flavor than that of C-oil. Finally, the
reaction mechanism has been analyzed by means of infrared spectroscopy,
which showed that C-oil was mostly hydrolyzed to free fatty acids. C-DAG
exhibited ester C-O stretching vibrations in the range 1280–1030 cm-1,
indicating successful esterification reaction between camellia seed oil
free fatty acids (C-FFAs) and glycerol under catalysis by the enzyme.
Optimization of subcritical carbon dioxide isobaric extraction process and fatty acid composition analysis of chive seed oil based on response surface methodology and artificial neural network
Authors: Chen Xing , Guo Jianzhang , Liu Guoyi , Wang Weiqiang , Song Xin
Published: November 2023

This article studied the process of subcritical carbon dioxide isobaric
extraction of chive seed oil. Box Behnken design was used for
experimental design and optimization, and the effects of main parameters
such as extraction pressure (11-23 MPa), temperature (50-70 ℃), and
extraction time (60-150 minutes) on the experimental results were
analyzed, the response surface method (RSM) and artificial neural
network (ANN) were applied for modeling and predicting of the extraction
yield. the performance of RSM and ANN models were analyzed and compared
by statistical parameters such as coefficient of determination (R
), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error
(MAE), and chi-square (χ ). the RSM model is more
accurate than the ANN model. Subsequently, optimization was carried by
two different approaches viz. RSM and ANN-GA, by comparing the RSM and
ANN models and the results of RSM and ANN-GA optimization, the RSM model
is closer to perfection than the predictions of ANN. the optimal
extraction conditions obtained by the RSM model were: extraction
pressure of 15.63 MPa, separation temperature of 57.3°C, extraction time
of 121.2 min,and predicted value 15.89%, mean value of three sets of
parallel experiments 15.79%, the fatty acid composition analysis of
leek seed oil optimized by RSM showed that linoleic acid (60.871%),
oleic acid (19.185%), palmitic acid (11.517%) and stearic acid
(3.174%) were the main components, and the content of four fatty acids
was more than 94%.
Overexpression of AhTDC under waterlogging stress reduces kernel filling rate due to crosstalk between melatonin and ethylene
Authors: Chen Yong , Zeng Ruier , Chen Tingting , Li Xi , Cao Jing , Li Jie , Xu Xueyu , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2023

Summary: The hindrance of kernel development caused by
waterlogging stress (WS) is the direct reason for the peanut yield
reduction. Currently, the mechanism of kernel filling responding to WS
remains unknown. The waterlogging-sensitive variety Huayu 39 was
subjected to WS for 3 days after 7 days after gynophores touched the
ground (DAG), and the key stage of WS affecting kernel filling is 14,
21, and 28 DAG. WS decreased the average filling rate and kernel dry
weight. Therefore, transcriptome sequencing and widely-targeted
metabolomic analysis were conducted on kernel to elucidate the mechanism
for the decrease in average filling rate under WS, revealing that
overexpression of the gene encoding tryptophan decarboxylase (
AhTDC), which caused the accumulation of melatonin, reduced
kernel weight. The sucrose transformation rate was limited by the
crosstalk between melatonin and ethylene, thereby reducing the kernel
filling rate and hindering kernel development. Our results are crucial
for formulating measures to alleviate the negative impact of WS on
peanut yield and quality, providing a basis for exploring high-yield and
high-quality cultivation, molecular-assisted breeding, and waterlogging
prevention.
Unraveling the neglected role of UV radiation on stomata: a meta-analysis with implications for modeling ecosystem-climate interactions
Authors: Urban Otmar , Ac Alexander , Jansen Marcel A.K. , Grace John
Published: November 2023

Stomata play a pivotal role in regulating gas exchange between
terrestrial plants and the atmosphere controlling water and carbon
cycles at organismal, ecosystem and global levels. Accordingly, our
objective was to investigate the impact of ultraviolet-B radiation, a
neglected environmental factor varying with ongoing global change, on
stomatal morphology and function by means of a comprehensive
meta-analysis. We found 45 peer-reviewed publications containing
altogether 143 case studies for analysis. The overall UV effect at the
leaf level is to decrease stomatal conductance, stomatal aperture and
stomatal size, although stomatal density was increased. The significant
decline in conductance is marked in short-term experiments, with more
modest decreases noted in long-term UV studies. We found that short-term
experiments in growth chambers are not representative of long-term field
UV effects on stomatal conductance. Further, we found a stronger UV
effect in grasses than in herbs, while the reduction of stomatal
conductance was insignificant in trees. It is hypothesised that these
alterations in stomatal function have important potential consequences
for plant life. In the short term, UV-mediated stomatal closure may
reduce transpiration and alleviate drought stress. However, in the long
term more complex changes in stomatal aperture, size and density may
reduce carbon sink capacity, and enhance leaf and surface warming,
potentially exacerbating the negative effects of drought and/or
heatwaves on plant ecosystems and endangering long-term plant survival.
Machine learning approach for classifying and predicting depressive behavior based on PPG an ECG feature extraction
Authors: alzate mateo , Torres Robinson , roca Jose de la , Hernandez Martha
Published: November 2023

The creation of a system for depression detection is proposed, based on
the acquisition and processing of ECG and PPG signals, followed by the
development of an algorithm for pattern classification and detection.
The main goal is to achieve an accurate classification of an individual
into a depression or non-depression group, ultimately achieving the
correct detection of the mentioned problem. This was accomplished
through the analysis of a set of physiological variables taken from PPG
and ECG signals, using an experimental protocol called script-driven
imagery adapted to the current paradigm, applied to individuals from the
High Specialized Medical Center of Bajio T1 in Leon, Mexico. The
variables to be used include heart rate variability, pulse transit time,
heart rate, respiration signal, physiological coherence of each, and the
global coherence index, as well as other frequency-related variables
selected based on a literature review. Subsequently, a Python program
was developed for processing and obtaining the values of the mentioned
variables for later use in a machine learning code. A multi machine
learning model test was carried just to find out that the binary
classification algorithm that yielded the best performance was a Random
Forest, with a sensitivity and accuracy of 76% for the validation
group, although higher percentages were achieved with smaller groups of
individuals. A review of the performance of the best features in the
algorithm was also conducted to identify which variables can have a
greater impact when attempting to detect a depressive state in an
individual.
Positive-to-negative tunable delay circuit designed with NGD RC network
Authors: Murad Nour , Junwen Shi , Junyan Cui , Silochi Hakim Epea , Wieser Robert , Galan Raul Sanchez , Ravelo Blaise
Published: November 2023

Despite the performed progressive research work, the interpretation of
negative group delay (NGD) function remains not familiar to
non-specialist design and fabrication circuit engineers. The
functionality misunderstanding limits the NGD circuit applications
compared to other classical electronic functions. The present paper is
dealing on the design of tunable property circuit by operating with
positive and negative delay behaviors. The topology of the tunable
circuit by using low-pass (LP) type NGD one is described. The design
formulas for calculating the circuit resistor and capacitor parameters
from the desired delay are expressed. The design feasibility of the
tunable circuit composed of LP-NGD cell and RC-circuit is validated with
a proof-of-concept (PoC) implemented on a test board. Two different
signals with pulse and arbitrary waveforms having tens-milliseconds
duration were considered during the validation tests. As expected by
tuning a varistor from 0.4 kΩ to 1 kΩ, the negative delay behavior
varying from about -0.4 ms was verified thanks to the time-advanced
effect due to the LP-NGD property. Then, the output signal delay was
observed to become positive when the varistor is tuned from 1 kΩ to 3
kΩ.
Crustal softening at propagating rift tips, East Africa
Authors: Kolawole Folarin , Ajala Rasheed
Published: November 2023

We investigate the upper-crustal structure of the Rukwa-Tanganyika Rift
Zone, East Africa, where earthquakes anomalously cluster at the
northwestern tip of the Rukwa Rift, the eastern tip of the Mweru-Wantipa
Rift, and along the Tanganyika Rift axis. The current rift tips host
distributed faulting in exposed basement with little sedimentation.
Here, we invert earthquake P and S travel times to produce
three-dimensional upper-crustal velocity models for the region. The
resulting models reveal the occurrence of anomalously high Vp/Vs ratios
that extend from the surface down to ca. 10 km at the tip zones of the
Rukwa and Mweru-Wantipa rifts. The spatial association of distributed
faulting, upper-crustal seismicity, and thermal anomalies with the high
Vp/Vs ratios suggest a weakened crust below the rift tips’ flexural
zone. We propose an ongoing strain localization and crustal softening at
the rift tips that is accommodated by brittle damage from bending
strain, and potentially compounded by hydrothermal weakening. This
setting represents a precursory phase that may initiate unilateral rift
tip propagation.
Numerical investigation of conjugate heat transfer in a heat exchanger equipped with cross-combined ellipsoidal dimple tubes
Authors: Hu Changquan , Feng Xiaobo , Yuan Zeng , Shen Dajun , Zhang Liang , Zheng Jiyu
Published: November 2023

At present, most numerical methods consider the tube walls as the same constant temperature in the simulations of the heat exchanger, and only the external fluid outside the tubes is considered. To investigate the heat transfer performance of the heat exchanger in the real running state, a conjugate heat transfer simulation is performed for a heat exchanger equipped with cross-combined ellipsoidal dimple tubes in this paper. The k-? standard turbulence model is selected to simulate the heating process of tube bank. The distributions of the temperature field and flow field are analyzed carefully. The results indicate that the temperature distribution and the heat flux on the tube wall are uneven, which is different from the case regarding the wall boundaries as a constant temperature. The heat transfer performance of the dimpled tube is higher than that of the smooth tube in the heat exchanger, and the heat transfer performance for aligned arrangement is better than that for staggered arrangement. In addition, the influences of geometric and flowing parameters on heat transfer are discussed.
A variable future-time-steps method for solving nonlinear unsteady inverse heat conduction problems
Authors: Wan Shibin , Yu Yan , Xing Bin , Xu Peng
Published: November 2023

In some non-linear unsteady inverse problems, the inverse solution will oscillate violently in the whole time domain due to the sharp change of the sensitivity coefficients. To deal with this problem, a new sequential function specification method with variable future time steps is proposed in this paper. The future time steps are adjusted by the error amplification coefficients which are defined as the reciprocal of the square sum of the sensitivity coefficients. When the error amplification coefficients are small, a small number of future time steps is used to reduce the deterministic error. While in the period with large error amplification coefficient, a large number of future time steps is used to reduce stochastic error. Finally, the total error of estimated heat flux is reduced. Avoid the sharp fluctuation of estimated heat flux in time domain due to the sharp change of sensitivity coefficients. The variable future-time-steps method is applied to the estimation of 1-D non-linear unsteady heat flux without and with ablation through numerical experiments. Numerical experiments show that the proposed method can not only estimate various forms of heat flux, but also its inversion results are significantly better than those of the fixed future time steps method based on the discrepancy principle, and also better than those of the fixed future time step method based on the minimum relative error of heat flux.