bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IDENTIFICATION OF FUNGAL SPECIES ASSOCIATED WITH THE SPOILAGE OF FRUIT IN DUTSIN-MA METROPOLIS, KATSINA STATE
Authors: Buah J. D. , Eberemu N. C. , Okeseni O.
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the fungi species associated with spoilage of orange (Citrus sinensis); Banana (Musa acuminate); and Mango (Mangifera indica) fruit. A total of 30 fruit samples were collected from market in Dutsin-ma metropolis, the study was carried out between June to August, 2023. The samples were surfaced sterilized with ethanol and the homogenates were cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar and incubated aerobically at room temperature for 5days at 30°C. The pure cultures obtained were identified morphologically and microscopically using a standard mircrobial Atlas for verification. The fungal species identified from the isolates are Aspergillusspp, Candidaspp, Alternariaspp, Fusariumspp, Mucorspp, Rhizopusspp, Collectoricumspp, and Peniciliumspp. Aspergillusspp was the most predominant fungal specie isolated from orange (citrus sinensis) having a frequency of 60% followed by Candidasppand Alternaira with 20% prevalence. Fusariumspp was the most predominant fungal specie isolated from banana (Musaacuminata), having a frequency of (44%), followed by Mucorspp (33%) and Rhizopusspp (22%). Aspergillusspp was the most predominant fungal specie isolated from mango (Mangifera indica) having a frequency of (70%) followed by Collectoricumspp(20%) and Peniciliumspp(10%). Aspergillusniger was the most predominant isolates from all the fruits under study. These findings are indicative that fungal species are associated with the spoilage of orange, (Citrus sinensis), banana (Musa acuminata), and mango (Mangifera indica) fruit leading to economic loss and possible human health hazard as a result of consumption of spoilt fruits.
MORPHOLOGICAL AND MORPHOMETRIC ASSESSMENT OF BOSSO, CHANCHAGA AND TAGWAI DAMS IN NIGER STATE OF NIGERIA FOR HYDROPOWER ELECTRIC APPLICATIONS
Authors: Yusuf A. , Momoh M. , Akpootu Davidson Odafe , Bature A. S.
Published: March 2024

The morphological and morphometric assessment of Bosso, Chanchaga and Tagwai dams was carried out between 16th of November 2023 and 31st December 2023, to determine their suitability for hydropower electric generation. The morphological and morphometric primary data were collected from the dam sites through direct observations of the morphological characteristics of the dams and morphometric measurements of the width of the dams using tape rule in order to calculate their volumes and storage capacities, since they are relatively small dams with pre-existing structures that facilitated the measurements. The result shows that Bosso dam is a storage, lake, upstream and valley dam with height of 17 m, length of 132 m, width of 110 m, volume of 246,800.0 m3 and storage capacity of 41,466.7 m3 with the dam capable of supplying water to drive extremely minimum flow turbine of 0. 27 m3/s for 157,577.77 seconds, 2.559.63 minutes, 42.66 hours and 1.78 days assuming there is no further inflow of water into the dam and no water is lost from the dam. Tagwai dam is storage, plain and lake dam with height of 25 m, length of 1,770 m, width of 98.5 m, volume of 4,458,625.0 m3 and capacity of 726,437.5 m3. Chanchaga dam is a storage, downstream, lake and valley dam with height of 33.0 m, length of 2,400 m, width of 65 m, volume of 5,148,000.0 m3 and capacity of 858,000.0 m3. The assessment of the dam proves that they are suitable for hydroelectric power applications.
DETERMINATION OF ANTIBIOSIS OF Trichoderma species AGAINST FUNGI ASSOCIATED WITH CORN (Zea Mays L.) SPOILAGE
Authors: Akomah-Abadaike Onyinyechi Ndimele , Anosike P. O.
Published: March 2024

Biological control of food spoilage microorganisms is gaining more attention because it is a safe and cheap technique. This study evaluated the antagonistic potential of Trichoderma species against corn spoilage fungi by plate co-culture technique for seven days. Fungal isolates from corn spoilage were examined morphologically and microscopically. The percentage growth inhibition (PGI) of Trichoderma species against the corn spoilage fungi were A. flavus (15%), A. niger (14%), A. terreus (62.9%), Fusarium spp. (5.9%), Nigrospora spp. (61.4%) and Penicillium spp. (62.5%). The result obtained in this study revealed that Trichoderma spp. had significant inhibitory effects against the growth of fungal pathogens associated with corn spoilage. Therefore, it could be explored for control of post-harvest fungal spoilage of corn. It is recommended that in order to compare the antagonistic strength of the Trichoderma species, different species of Trichoderma should be tested against the same spoilage fungi.
SAFETY EVALUATION OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF Solanum nigrum LEAF IN ANASTROZOLE-INDUCED POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME IN WISTAR RATS
Authors: Femi-Olabisi Fehintoluwa Joy , Adesoji Precious Adeola , Agboola Anthonia Oluyemi , Oladoye Odunayo Olowolehin
Published: March 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder prevalent among women of reproductive age. Solanum nigrum leaf is used traditionally in the treatment of various gynecological disorders. The toxicological effects of aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum leaves (AESNL) at 200 mg/kg body weight on anastrozole-induced in polycystic ovarian syndrome was investigated in female Wistar rats. Sixteen female Wistar rats (190.56 ± 5.35g) were assigned into 4 groups (A - D) of four animals each: animals in group A received 0.5 ml of distilled water orally on daily basis for 14 days while the anastrozole-induced rats in groups B, C, and D also received orally 0.5 ml of distilled water, 7.14mg/kg of metformin (reference drug) and same volume of the extract corresponding to 200 mg/kg body weight of AESNL respectively. Parameters assayed for were liver function tests, kidney function tests and enzyme assays. The result obtained revealed that AESNL mitigated anastrozole-treatment related increases in albumin, uric acid, total protein parameters, total bilirubin, liver and serum aspartate aminotransferase, kidney alkaline phosphatase, liver gamma-glutamyl transferase activities, and aggravated the increases in urea, direct bilirubin, creatinine, liver and serum alkaline phosphatase, and serum gamma-glutamyl transferase activities. Therefore, the aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum leaves at the 200 mg/kg body weight might not be completely safe when used in the treatment of PCOS due to alterations in toxicological parameters evaluated in this study.
Factors affecting entrepreneurial intention and entrepreneurial attitudes among rural Tunisian women
Authors: Maayoufi Dorsaf , Péli László , Áldorfainé Czabadai Lilla
Published: March 2024

Entrepreneurship is strongly affected by the intentions and attitude of an entrepreneur. Women entrepreneurs are the most important elements of success in all communities, but they are most often neglected by society which leads to a different attitude and intention of women towards entrepreneurship as compared to men. Both societal and familial factors are responsible for the development of the entrepreneurial attitude and intentions of an individual. Tunisian society is more rigid towards women’s entrepreneurship due to the presence of patriarchal nature which causes a lower interest of women in business activities. This review provides insight into the factors responsible for the attenuation of entrepreneurial attitude (EA) and entrepreneurial intentions (EI) among rural women of Tunisia. We reviewed previous literature for this cause and tried to identify the most prominent effects of societal, cultural and familial factors affecting the EA and EI of women residing in rural Tunisia. Results from the data yield some factors which had a direct or indirect influence on the EA and EI of rural Tunisian women which included social capital, family support (Husband and parents), entrepreneurial education, entrepreneurial training, regional context (Culture), self-efficacy, pull factor, an emotional factor, lack of managerial skills, risk-taking, role model (Parental and organizational) and reference groups.
Linkage map construction and QTL identification for yield related traits of rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Tun Khin Swe Hlaing , Htun Than Myint , Htwe Nyo Mar , Aye Myint , Talukdar Akshay , Thein Min San
Published: March 2024

The study was undertaken to construct a linkage map and to identify the QTLs for heading date, plant height, and culm strength using a F2 population derived from Ayeyarmin/IR 64, two varieties distinctly different in heading date and plant height. A total of 233 F2 individuals were genotyped using 70 SSR primers, and phenotypic data were collected for heading date, plant height and culm strength traits. Fifty-four out of 70 marker loci were mapped across twelve rice chromosomes spanning a total map length of 1592.30 cM with an average distance of 29.49 cM between adjacent marker loci using MAPMAKER/EXP 3. Composite interval mapping for QTL analysis was conducted with 1000 permutation time at 0.05 probability level using WinQTL Cartographer version 2.5. One major QTL for heading date was mapped between marker RM204 and RM50 on chromosome 6. One major QTL for culm strength was mapped between marker RM1003-RM5931, and two major QTLs for plant height were mapped between RM84-RM1003 and RM1003-RM5931 on chromosome 1. The molecular markers linked to the major QTLs could be potentially used in marker-assisted selection for the rainfed rice improvement breeding program.
The Role of Intellectual Capital on Hospital Performance: Evidence at Facility-Level
Authors: Chun Mark , Seagraves Michael , Griffy-Brown Charla , Leigh Doug
Published: March 2024

Based on the social capital theory, this study argues that intellectual capital, defined as knowledge and capabilities within the organization, significantly affect hospital performance. This study examines the impact of intellectual capital on four key hospitals’ performance metrics, i.e. quality, productivity, length of stay, and satisfaction. Using a sample of 34 hospital facilities’ operational reports to construct hospital performance and individual-level survey of 143 individuals across these 34 facilities to construct intellectual capital during 2018, this study finds that intellectual capital significantly increases employee productivity and reduces patient stay length. This study contributes to the literature by providing evidence that intellectual capital plays an important role in reducing bottleneck for hospitals to meet increasing demand in healthcare services.
From Causal Inferences to Predictive Analytics: Using AI to Settle on Damages
Authors: Giaoui Frank S.
Published: March 2024

From the perspective of both plaintiffs and defendants, the measurement of damages quantum is of the utmost importance. It is surprising to see this process left entirely to the court’s discretion, as quantum is traditionally considered a question of fact. Quantifying damages presents significant challenges due to the subjective nature of court discretion, leading to uncertainty for both plaintiffs and defendants. This research addresses this issue by examining difficult-to-quantify contract damages through empirical and comparative methodologies. Based on prior studies on French civil law and American common law, this empirical study involved quantitative analysis of various contract cases. Methodological advancements, including Machine Learning (ML), and Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques, facilitated automated extraction and analysis of key variables. With a focus on overcoming sample size limitations and enhancing accuracy, this study achieved a classification accuracy of over 85% for identified essential variables. The more recent integration of generative AI and Large Language Modeling marked significant progress in quantifying damages. I conclude with recommendations for sustainable management practices in this field.
Prevalence and intensity of dental caries in children of different age groups living in the Solntsevo district, Moscow
Authors: Voronin P. A. , Voronin V. A. , Koparzova O. A. , Sagitdinova T. N. , Smirnova D. A. , Rassadina S. S.
Published: March 2024

The relevance of the study of the prevalence and intensity of caries in children of different age groups increases due to the fact that the tasks of modern pediatric dentistry include improving the level of care and prevention of caries and its complications.

Aim. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence and intensity of caries of temporary and permanent teeth in children and adolescents of different age groups (3–5 years, 6–8 years, 9–11 years and 12–16 years) living in the Solntsevo district of Moscow.

Material and methods. The study included 1,725 children of four age groups who underwent a routine dental examination in dental departments of hospitals, preschool and school institutions of the Solntsevo district with registration of the presence of carious cavities, fillings and removed teeth.

Results. The prevalence of caries in children of different age groups varies depending on the factors affecting the development of caries. The prevalence and intensity increase during the period of milk bite, then drop sharply by the beginning of the period of tooth change, then gradually increasing by the time the formation of a permanent bite is completed. Most of the children are not sanitized at the time of examination.

Conclusion. Preventive measures in preschool and school institutions, the level and nature of dental care for children in the Solntsevo district of Moscow are insufficient, since the increase in caries in children of different age groups of the district exceeds acceptable indicators, as a result of which many of the examined have carious cavities.
Comparative analysis of the results of using individual titanium frameworks and resorbable collagen membranes in alveolar bone reconstruction
Authors: Nalchajyan H. M. , Ivanov S. Yu. , Ivashkevich S. G. , Mokrenko M. E. , Dolgalev A. A. , Choniashvili D. Z.
Published: March 2024

This article describes a method of directed bone regeneration (DBR) of alveolar bone using 3D printed individual titanium framework membranes (ITFMs). Using computer modelling and additive technologies, we have designed and manufactured ITFMs for directed bone regeneration. The use of such membranes made it possible to reduce the duration of operations and obtain a larger volume of bone regenerate. Barrier membranes made of cross-linked collagen with a long resorption time were used as a comparison group.

Results. The use of ICTM for alveolar bone reconstruction allowed us to achieve a maximum bone regenerate height of 6.28 mm, while using Lamina collagen membrane – 2.75 mm. The median difference of bone height before and after surgery with ICTM was 3.605 mm, for Lamina – 1.33 mm. The obtained results allowed us to recommend the use of Lamina membrane for restoration of alveolar bone width and/or height within 3 mm. In case of combined defects of alveolar bone width and height of more than 3 mm, we recommend the use of customized 3D printed titanium frame membranes.
Etiological aspects of lichen planus of the oral mucosa and red border of the lips (scientific review)
Authors: Borisova E. G. , Zheleznyak V. A. , Pototskaya A. V. , Komova A. A. , Spesivets A. F.
Published: March 2024

Lichen planus (lichen ruber planus), according to most Russian and foreign scientists, is one of the most common diseases of the oral mucosa in the system, but the available data on the frequency of the lesion are quite contradictory and range from 17 to 79%. Rare clinical forms of the disease present certain difficulties for diagnosis, which in approximately 35–40% of cases leads to an incorrect diagnosis. In recent years, the frequency of relapses of the disease has increased, and there has been an increase in the number of patients in whom lichen planus manifests itself atypically. Scientific reviews contain information about the primary manifestation of the disease after a coronavirus infection. Not only the decrease, but also the temporary loss of ability to work of patients with this nosology is of significant socio-economic importance. Existing theories of the occurrence of the disease – viral, neurogenic, hereditary, immunological, toxic-allergic and others – only partially explain the features of the pathology. The purpose of our work was to review scientific articles, dissertations and systematic reviews of domestic and foreign authors on numerous etiological concepts of lichen planus of the oral mucosa and red border of the lips. A review of the available Russian and foreign scientific literature over the past 10 years has been carried out, which allows us to more fully evaluate the etiological theories of the occurrence of lichen planus in the oral cavity proposed by many authors for the further prescription of adequate therapy, as well as the prevention of this disease.
1923 Nüfus Mübadelesini Pierre Bourdieu’nun Alan, Sermaye ve Habitus Kavramları Üzerinden Okumak
Authors: Öztürk Belçim , Özgen Nurettin
Published: March 2024

1923 yılında Türkiye ile Yunanistan arasında imzalanan nüfus mübadelesi sözleşmesi, dramatik ve aynı zamanda travmatik hikâyeler barındıran zorunlu ve zorla göç deneyimlerindendir. Mübadelenin psikososyal ve sosyomekânsal bağlamı, Pierre Bourdieu'nun düşünümsel sosyoloji adını verdiği alan, sermaye ve habitus kavramları üzerinden analiz edilmektedir. Amaç, mübadillerin göç sırası ve sonrasında maruz kaldıkları sorunları, iskân edildikleri yerlerde ve etkileşimde bulundukları yerel halkla yaşadıkları deneyimleri aktarmaktır. Araştırmada kullanılan veri kaynakları 1923 Nüfus Mübadelesine ilişkin dokuz (9) belgesel filmden oluşmaktadır. Bu filmlerden temin edilen veriler, MAXQDA paket programı vasıtasıyla analiz edilerek kavram ağları oluşturulmuş ve tematik bağlama uygun içerik çözümlemesi yapılmıştır. Sonuç olarak Anadolu'ya sevk edilen mübadillerin alana dair ekonomik, sosyal ve kültürel sermayelerinin işlevsiz kaldığı tespit edilmiştir. Başta psikososyal yansımalar olmak üzere karşılaştıkları çok boyutlu olumsuzlukların da hafızalarında yer almaya devam ettiği belirlenmiştir.
WHAT ABOUT AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC? ADOLESCENTS' VOICES ON THIS PERIOD IN THEIR LIVES
Authors: Branquinho Cátia , Gaspar de Matos Margarida
Published: March 2024

Objective: what youth found most difficult during COVID-19, their coping strategies and expectations regarding the future. Method: multi-method with 318 participants (16-24 years; M = 19.07, SD = 2.66), mostly girls (69.5%), students (78.5%) in secondary school or equivalent (52.8%) or higher (41.7%). Results: negative perception of the impacts on mental and social health, social relationships and behaviours. Secondary and university students have a similar perception of the impacts of the pandemic, but different future expectations. Conclusions: these results are expected to raise awareness of the importance of psychological support, and resource availability during and after the pandemic.
Actitudes del profesorado hacia la gamificación
Authors: Cáceres Gómez María Victoria , Gómez Baya Diego
Published: March 2024

La gamificación hace referencia al uso del juego y elementos propios del juego en contextos no lúdicos como por ejemplo el colegio. El logro docente persigue el interés en el alumnado para conseguir una educación significativa y al mismo tiempo motivadora. Esta investigación analiza las actitudes del profesorado hacia la gamificación. Además, conoce las experiencias gamificadoras que han llevado a cabo los docentes, tanto juego como técnicas y recompensas. Asimismo, describe las dificultades que se han encontrado los docentes en su incorporación en las aulas y cuáles creen que son los mayores obstáculos que éstos se encuentran. Para ello, se ha realizado un estudio descriptivo cualitativo que ha contado con la participación de 14 docentes de un centro público de la ciudad de Huelva. El análisis muestra actitudes positivas hacia dicha metodología; los docentes reconocen que, en la incorporación de dicha metodología a sus aulas, ha incrementado la motivación de sus alumnos/as y se cumplieron los objetivos esperados. Sin embargo, se encuentran numerosas dificultades que hacen difícil su incorporación en las aulas. Se ha decidido estudiar este tema debido a las voluntades de cambio que se vienen dando a la educación en vista de las elevadas cifras de abandono y fracaso escolar que encontramos en España.
Pseudo Array Causalization
Authors: Abdelhak Karim , Casella Francesco , Bachmann Bernhard
Published: March 2024

In the current state-of-the-art modeling tools for simulation, it is common to describe system behavior symbolically using mixed continuous and discrete differential-algebraic equations, so called hybrid DAEs. To correctly resolve higher index problems, hybrid systems and to efficiently use ODE solvers, a matching and sorting problem has to be solved, commonly referred to as causalization. Typically multidimensional equations and variables are scalarized, which leads to excessive build time and generated code size in the case of large systems. An algorithm will be presented, that preserves array structures as much as possible while still solving the problem of causalization in scalar fashion. Test results carried out in the OpenModelica tool show a reduction in build time of one/two orders of magnitude and of a factor two/three in the simulation run time for models of the ScalableTestSuite library.
5th Generation District Heating and Cooling Modelica Models for Prosumer Interaction Analysis
Authors: Angelidis Orestis , Zinsmeister Daniel , Ioannou Anastasia , Friedrich Daniel , Thomson Alan , Falcone Gioia
Published: March 2024

5th Generation District Heating and Cooling (5GDHC) provides a promising pathway for decarbonising the thermal sector. To quantifying the synergies between heating, cooling, and electricity, complex thermofluid models are required. Modelica offers a potential solution for developing such models but there is a scarcity of accessible and usable models. This paper addresses this gap by presenting a comprehensive set of Modelica models for key elements of 5GDHC systems: prosumers, balancing units, and hydraulic interfaces. The models prioritise usability by facilitating the utilisation of Func-tional Mock-up Interface and Power Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) methodologies. Component design, rele-vant controls and the applicability of PHIL setups are discussed. A theoretical case exemplifies hardware min-imisation, using only heat exchangers to investigate prosumer behaviour. The paper concludes with a discus-sion on the potential use of these models, opportunities for improvement, and the need for further research and experimental investigations in understanding 5GDHC systems.
Case Report: Mast cell anergy: absence of symptoms after accidental re-exposure to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 3 days after anaphylaxis
Authors: Guyénard Loris , Tauber Marie , Debord-Peguet Sophie , Berard Frédéric , Nosbaum Audrey , Hacard Florence , Castells Mariana , Nicolas Jean-François
Published: March 2024

Empty mast cell syndrome, also named post anaphylaxis mast cell anergy (PAMA), is a temporary state of loss of mast cell responsiveness after a severe immediate hypersensitivity reaction. In this study, we describe a case of PAMA after accidental re-exposure to amoxicillin in a patient who developed severe anaphylaxis to this drug three days earlier in the operating room. To our knowledge, this report is the second to document this phenomenon.
Identification of optimal CMIP6 GCMs for future typical meteorological year in major cities of Indonesia using multi-criteria decision analysis
Authors: Bhanage Vinayak , Lee Han Soo , Cabrera Jonathan Salar , Kubota Tetsu , Pradana Radyan Putra , Fajary Faiz Rohman , Nimiya Hideyo
Published: March 2024

Many studies often use a single global climate model (GCM) across multiple cities to develop future Typical Meteorological Year (TMY), without emphasizing city-specific selection of GCM. The present investigation employs the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assess city-specific GCMs for generating future TMY datasets across 29 Indonesian cities. Six GCMs from the coupled model intercomparison project phase 6 (CMIP6) were evaluated against Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research Applications (MERRA-2) to assess their performance in simulating surface air temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and relative humidity. Six statistical measures were used to recognize the systematic biases. Further, AHP was applied to integrate these statistical measures to calculate the city-specific total relative error for each meteorological parameter. Results of total relative error show that TaiESM, 6-Model Ensemble (6ME), NorMM, and MPI-HR were best for simulating surface air temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and relative humidity in most cities, respectively. TMY recognizes distinctive importance among meteorological parameters. Thus, it is essential to reflect the parameter-specific importance while selecting GCMs for future TMY. Hence, AHP was reapplied on total relative errors accounting for differing weights of each meteorological parameter. Outcomes show that TaiESM, 6ME, and MPI-HR were found suitable for generating future TMY datasets in 18, 5, and 3 cities, respectively, while MPI-LR, NorLM, and NorMM were recommended for Boven Digoel, Medan, and Bengkulu cities, respectively. Using city-specific GCMs ensures precise and cost-effective future TMY generation, assisting urban planners and policymakers in designing environmentally sustainable buildings for anticipated climatic changes.
Association between loss of hypercoagulable phenotype, clinical features and complement pathway consumption in COVID-19
Authors: Kasugai Daisuke , Tanaka Taku , Suzuki Takako , Ito Yoshinori , Nishida Kazuki , Ozaki Masayuki , Kutsuna Takeo , Yokoyama Toshiki , Kaneko Hitoshi , Ogata Ryo , Matsui Ryohei , Goshima Takahiro , Hamada Hiroshi , Ishii Azusa , Kodama Yusuke , Jingushi Naruhiro , Ishikura Ken , Kamidani Ryo , Tada Masashi , Okada Hideshi , Yamamoto Takanori , Goto Yukari
Published: March 2024

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) features a hypercoagulable state, but therapeutic anticoagulation effectiveness varies with disease severity. We aimed to evaluate the dynamics of the coagulation profile and its association with COVID-19 severity, outcomes, and biomarker trajectories.

Methods

This multicenter, prospective, observational study included patients with COVID-19 requiring respiratory support. Rotational thromboelastometry findings were evaluated for coagulation and fibrinolysis status. Hypercoagulable status was defined as supranormal range of maximum clot elasticity in an external pathway. Longitudinal laboratory parameters were collected to characterize the coagulation phenotype.

Results

Of 166 patients, 90 (54%) were severely ill at inclusion (invasive mechanical ventilation, 84; extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, 6). Higher maximum elasticity (P=0.02) and lower maximum lysis in the external pathway (P=0.03) were observed in severely ill patients compared with the corresponding values in patients on non-invasive oxygen supplementation. Hypercoagulability components correlated with platelet and fibrinogen levels. Hypercoagulable phenotype was associated with favorable outcomes in severely ill patients, while normocoagulable phenotype was not (median time to recovery, 15 days vs. 27 days, P=0.002), but no significant association was observed in moderately ill patients. In patients with severe COVID-19, lower initial C3, minimum C3, CH50, and greater changes in CH50 were associated with the normocoagulable phenotype. Changes in complement components correlated with dynamics of coagulation markers, hematocrit, and alveolar injury markers.

Conclusions

While hypercoagulable states become more evident with increasing severity of respiratory disease in patients with COVID-19, normocoagulable phenotype is associated with triggered by alternative pathway activation and poor outcomes.
Therapeutic approaches to enhance natural killer cell cytotoxicity
Authors: Stenger Terran D. , Miller Jeffrey S.
Published: March 2024

Enhancing the cytotoxicity of natural killer (NK) cells has emerged as a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy, due to their pivotal role in immune surveillance and tumor clearance. This literature review provides a comprehensive overview of therapeutic approaches designed to augment NK cell cytotoxicity. We analyze a wide range of strategies, including cytokine-based treatment, monoclonal antibodies, and NK cell engagers, and discuss criteria that must be considered when selecting an NK cell product to combine with these strategies. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and limitations associated with each therapeutic strategy, as well as the potential for combination therapies to maximize NK cell cytotoxicity while minimizing adverse effects. By exploring the wealth of research on this topic, this literature review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians seeking to develop and implement novel therapeutic strategies that harness the full potential of NK cells in the fight against cancer. Enhancing NK cell cytotoxicity holds great promise in the evolving landscape of immunotherapy, and this review serves as a roadmap for understanding the current state of the field and the future directions in NK cell-based therapies.
Antibody-mediated depletion of select leukocyte subsets in blood and tissue of nonhuman primates
Authors: Sutton Matthew S. , Bucsan Allison N. , Lehman Chelsea C. , Kamath Megha , Pokkali Supriya , Magnani Diogo M. , Seder Robert , Darrah Patricia A. , Roederer Mario
Published: March 2024

Understanding the immunological control of pathogens requires a detailed evaluation of the mechanistic contributions of individual cell types within the immune system. While knockout mouse models that lack certain cell types have been used to help define the role of those cells, the biological and physiological characteristics of mice do not necessarily recapitulate that of a human. To overcome some of these differences, studies often look towards nonhuman primates (NHPs) due to their close phylogenetic relationship to humans. To evaluate the immunological role of select cell types, the NHP model provides distinct advantages since NHP more closely mirror the disease manifestations and immunological characteristics of humans. However, many of the experimental manipulations routinely used in mice (e.g., gene knock-out) cannot be used with the NHP model. As an alternative, the in vivo infusion of monoclonal antibodies that target surface proteins on specific cells to either functionally inhibit or deplete cells can be a useful tool. Such depleting antibodies have been used in NHP studies to address immunological mechanisms of action. In these studies, the extent of depletion has generally been reported for blood, but not thoroughly assessed in tissues. Here, we evaluated four depleting regimens that primarily target T cells in NHP: anti-CD4, anti-CD8α, anti-CD8β, and immunotoxin-conjugated anti-CD3. We evaluated these treatments in healthy unvaccinated and IV BCG-vaccinated NHP to measure the extent that vaccine-elicited T cells – which may be activated, increased in number, or resident in specific tissues – are depleted compared to resting populations in unvaccinated NHPs. We report quantitative measurements of in vivo depletion at multiple tissue sites providing insight into the range of cell types depleted by a given mAb. While we found substantial depletion of target cell types in blood and tissue of many animals, residual cells remained, often residing within tissue. Notably, we find that animal-to-animal variation is substantial and consequently studies that use these reagents should be powered accordingly.
Lean ammonia-fueled engine operation enabled by hydrogen-assisted turbulent jet ignition
Authors: Reggeti Shawn A. , Northrop William F.
Published: March 2024

Anhydrous ammonia (NH3) use in internal combustion engines represents a zero-carbon energy solution that is fully sustainable if NH3 is generated renewably. An active hydrogen-fueled pre-chamber to induce turbulent jet ignition is investigated in this work as a means to enhance ignition energy and turbulent flame speed in an NH3 fueled engine. The strength of the turbulent jets, and thus their effectiveness in igniting the main-chamber and enhancing combustion, is highly dependent on pre-chamber equivalence ratio and hydrogen fraction. Local pre-chamber mixtures are varied in the present study by investigating a range of pre-mixed intake NH3-air equivalence ratios (ϕ = 0.5–1) under a consistent hydrogen direct injection strategy in the pre-chamber. Additionally, given the knock-resistance of NH3, multiple compression ratios were studied to investigate the impact on efficiency, emissions, and the combustion process. Results show a clear trade-off where leaner intake equivalence ratios enhance the reactivity of the pre-chamber (greater local hydrogen fraction and closer to stoichiometry) but reduce the reactivity of the main-chamber (lean and slow flame speed). Spark timing optimizes the trade-off under a fixed injection strategy; advancing spark provides more time for combustion to occur in the main-chamber but inhibits pre-chamber reactivity for a less energetic ignition of the main chamber. Optimal indicated thermal efficiency and minimum unburned NH3 and N2O emissions occur around 0.7–0.8 equivalence ratio for all compression ratios. Conversely, NOx is highest at these equivalence ratios but could theoretically be eliminated using selective catalytic reduction aftertreatment using the NH3 present in the exhaust.
Fe(III) bioreduction kinetics in anaerobic batch and continuous stirred tank reactors with acidophilic bacteria relevant for bioleaching of limonitic laterites
Authors: Hubau Agathe , Joulian Catherine , Tris Hafida , Pino-Herrera Douglas , Becquet Camille , Guezennec Anne-Gwénaëlle
Published: March 2024

In the framework of the H2020 project CROCODILE, the recovery of Co from oxidized ores by reductive bioleaching has been studied. The objective was to reduce Fe(III) to Fe(II) to enhance the dissolution of Co from New-Caledonian limonitic laterites, mainly composed of goethite and Mn oxides. This study focused on the Fe(III) bioreduction which is a relevant reaction of this process. In the first step, biomass growth was sustained by aerobic bio-oxidation of elemental sulfur. In the second step, the biomass anaerobically reduced Fe(III) to Fe(II). The last step, which is not in the scope of this study, was the reduction of limonites and the dissolution of metals. This study aimed at assessing the Fe(III) bioreduction rate at 35°C with a microbial consortium composed predominantly of Sulfobacillus (Sb.) species as the iron reducers and Acidithiobacillus (At.) caldus. It evaluated the influence of the biomass concentration on the Fe(III) bioreduction rate and yield, both in batch and continuous mode. The influence of the composition of the growth medium on the bioreduction rate was assessed in continuous mode. A mean Fe(III) bioreduction rate of 1.7 mg·L−1·h−1 was measured in batch mode, i.e., 13 times faster than the abiotic control (0.13 mg·L−1·h−1). An increase in biomass concentrations in the liquid phase from 4 × 108 cells·mL−1 to 3 × 109 cells·mL−1 resulted in an increase of the mean Fe(III) bioreduction rate from 1.7 to 10 mg·L−1·h−1. A test in continuous stirred tank reactors at 35°C resulted in further optimization of the Fe(III) bioreduction rate which reached 20 mg·L−1·h−1. A large excess of nutrients enables to obtain higher kinetics. The determination of this kinetics is essential for the design of a reductive bioleaching process.
Disease-modifying therapy in progressive multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wu Xin , Wang Shixin , Xue Tao , Tan Xin , Li Jiaxuan , Chen Zhouqing , Wang Zhong
Published: March 2024

Background

Currently, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) are widely used in clinical practice. At the same time, there are a variety of drug options for DMTs, but the effect of the drugs that can better relieve symptoms and improve the prognosis are still inconclusive.

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DMTs for PMS and to identify the best among these drugs.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and clinicaltrials.gov were systematically searched to identify relevant studies published before 30 January, 2023. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the confidence in the network meta-analysis (CINeMA) framework. We estimated the summary risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences (MD) for continuous outcomes with 95% credible intervals (CrIs).

Results

We included 18 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 9,234 patients in the study. DMT can effectively control the disease progression of MS. Among them, mitoxantrone, siponimod, and ocrelizumab are superior to other drug options in delaying disease progression (high certainty). Mitoxantrone was the best (with high certainty) for mitigating deterioration (progression of disability). Ocrelizumab performed best on the pre- and post-treatment Timed 25-Foot Walk test (T25FW; low certainty), as did all other agents (RR range: 1.12–1.05). In the 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT), natalizumab performed the best (high certainty), as did all other agents (RR range: 1.59–1.09). In terms of imaging, IFN-beta-1b performed better on the new T2 hypointense lesion on contrast, before and after treatment (high certainty), while siponimod performed best on the change from baseline in the total volume of lesions on T2-weighted image contrast before and after treatment (high certainty), and sWASO had the highest area under the curve (SUCRA) value (100%). In terms of adverse events (AEs), rituximab (RR 1.01), and laquinimod (RR 1.02) were more effective than the placebo (high certainty). In terms of serious adverse events (SAEs), natalizumab (RR 1.09), and ocrelizumab (RR 1.07) were safer than placebo (high certainty).

Conclusion

DMTs can effectively control disease progression and reduce disease deterioration during the treatment of PMS.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/?s=202320071, identifier: 202320071.
Clinical presentation and diagnosis of adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia: a literature analysis of case studies
Authors: Papapetropoulos Spyros , Gelfand Jeffrey M. , Konno Takuya , Ikeuchi Takeshi , Pontius Angela , Meier Andreas , Foroutan Farid , Wszolek Zbigniew K.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Because adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP) is a rare, rapidly progressive, debilitating, and ultimately fatal neurodegenerative disease, a rapid and accurate diagnosis is critical. This analysis examined the frequency of initial misdiagnosis of ALSP via comprehensive review of peer-reviewed published cases.

Methods

Data were extracted from a MEDLINE search via PubMed (January 1, 1980, through March 22, 2022) from eligible published case reports/series for patients with an ALSP diagnosis that had been confirmed by testing for the colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor gene (CSF1R) mutation. Patient demographics, clinical symptoms, brain imaging, and initial diagnosis data were summarized descriptively. Categorical data for patient demographics, symptoms, and brain imaging were stratified by initial diagnosis category to test for differences in initial diagnosis based on each variable.

Results

Data were extracted from a cohort of 291 patients with ALSP from 93 published case reports and case series. Mean (standard deviation) age of symptom onset was 43.2 (11.6) years. A family history of ALSP was observed in 59.1% of patients. Cognitive impairment (47.1%) and behavioral and psychiatric abnormalities (26.8%) were the most frequently reported initial symptoms. Of 291 total cases, an accurate initial diagnosis of ALSP was made in 72 cases (24.7%) and the most frequent initial misdiagnosis categories were frontotemporal dementia (28 [9.6%]) and multiple sclerosis (21 [7.2%]). Of the 219 cases (75.3%) that were initially mis- or undiagnosed, 206 cases (94.1%) were later confirmed as ALSP by immunohistology, imaging, and/or genetic testing; for the remaining 13 cases, no final diagnosis was reported. Initial diagnosis category varied based on age, family history, geographic region, mode of inheritance, and presenting symptoms of pyramidal or extrapyramidal motor dysfunction, behavioral and psychiatric abnormalities, cognitive impairment, and speech difficulty. Brain imaging abnormalities were common, and initial diagnosis category was significantly associated with white matter hyperintensities, white matter calcifications, and ventricular enlargement.

Discussion

In this literature analysis, ALSP was frequently misdiagnosed. Improving awareness of this condition and distinguishing it from other conditions with overlapping presenting symptoms is important for timely management of a rapidly progressive disease such as ALSP.
Case report: accelerated cathodal HD-tDCS over the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in hoarding disorder
Authors: Brunelin Jerome , Neige Cécilia , Eche Julien , Galvao Filipe , Bation Rémy , Mondino Marine
Published: March 2024

Hoarding disorder is an under-recognized condition characterized by the excessive acquisition of possessions and difficulty in disposing of them, which can have dramatic consequences. As hoarding disorder is difficult to treat and associated with high levels of disability in all areas of functioning, there appears to be a critical need to develop novel, tailored therapeutic strategies. Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques hold promise as potential therapeutic interventions for various psychiatric conditions and as a tool to modulate impulsivity when applied over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Therefore, we hypothesized that delivering accelerated cathodal high-definition direct transcranial stimulation (HD-tDCS) over the right DLPFC could be a suitable approach to alleviate symptoms in patients with hoarding disorder. In a case report, we observed beneficial clinical effects on acquisition and depressive symptoms after 15 sessions of three daily 20-min sessions. Accelerated cathodal HD-tDCS over the right DLPFC appears to be a safe and appropriate intervention for patients with hoarding disorder. However, randomized, sham-controlled trials are needed to further validate these encouraging findings.
Development and validation of a pharmacogenomics reporting workflow based on the illumina global screening array chip
Authors: Gan Pamela , Hajis Muhammad Irfan Bin , Yumna Mazaya , Haruman Jessline , Matoha Husnul Khotimah , Wahyudi Dian Tri , Silalahi Santha , Oktariani Dwi Rizky , Dela Fitria , Annisa Tazkia , Pitaloka Tessalonika Damaris Ayu , Adhiwijaya Priscilla Klaresza , Pauzi Rizqi Yanuar , Hertanto Robby , Kumaheri Meutia Ayuputeri , Sani Levana , Irwanto Astrid , Pradipta Ariel , Chomchopbun Kamonlawan , Gonzalez-Porta Mar
Published: March 2024

Background: Microarrays are a well-established and widely adopted technology capable of interrogating hundreds of thousands of loci across the human genome. Combined with imputation to cover common variants not included in the chip design, they offer a cost-effective solution for large-scale genetic studies. Beyond research applications, this technology can be applied for testing pharmacogenomics, nutrigenetics, and complex disease risk prediction. However, establishing clinical reporting workflows requires a thorough evaluation of the assay’s performance, which is achieved through validation studies. In this study, we performed pre-clinical validation of a genetic testing workflow based on the Illumina Global Screening Array for 25 pharmacogenomic-related genes.

Methods: To evaluate the accuracy of our workflow, we conducted multiple pre-clinical validation studies. Here, we present the results of accuracy and precision assessments, involving a total of 73 cell lines. These assessments encompass reference materials from the Genome-In-A-Bottle (GIAB), the Genetic Testing Reference Material Coordination Program (GeT-RM) projects, as well as additional samples from the 1000 Genomes project (1KGP). We conducted an accuracy assessment of genotype calls for target loci in each indication against established truth sets.

Results: In our per-sample analysis, we observed a mean analytical sensitivity of 99.39% and specificity 99.98%. We further assessed the accuracy of star-allele calls by relying on established diplotypes in the GeT-RM catalogue or calls made based on 1KGP genotyping. On average, we detected a diplotype concordance rate of 96.47% across 14 pharmacogenomic-related genes with star allele-calls. Lastly, we evaluated the reproducibility of our findings across replicates and observed 99.48% diplotype and 100% phenotype inter-run concordance.

Conclusion: Our comprehensive validation study demonstrates the robustness and reliability of the developed workflow, supporting its readiness for further development for applied testing.
Effect of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilization management on soil properties and leaf traits and yield of Sapindus mukorossi
Authors: Liu Juntao , Wang Dongnan , Yan Xiaoli , Jia Liming , Chen Na , Liu Jiajia , Zhao Pengli , Zhou Ling , Cao Qiuli
Published: March 2024

Rational fertilization is the main measure to improve crop yield, but there are differences in the optimal effects of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) rationing exhibited by the same crop species in different regions and soil conditions. In order to determine the optimum fertilization ratio for high yield of Sapindus mukorossi in western Fujian to provide scientific basis. We carried out the experimental design with different ratios of N, P and K to investigate the effects of fertilization on the yield. and leaf physiology of Sapindus mukorossiand soil properties. Results showed that the yield of Sapindus mukorossi reached the highest value (1464.58 kg ha-1) at N2P2K2 treatment, which increased to 1056.25 kg ha-1 compared with the control. There were significant differences in the responses of soil properties and leaf physiological factors to fertilization treatments. Factor analysis showed that the integrated scores of soil factors and leaf physiological characteristic factors of Sapindus mukorossi under N2P2K2 fertilization treatment were the highest, which effectively improved the soil fertility and leaf physiological traits. The yield of Sapindus mukorossi showed a highly significant linear positive correlation with the integrated scores (r=0.70, p<0.01). Passage analysis showed that soil available nitrogen content, organic carbon content, and leaf area index were the key main factors to affect the yield. RDA showed that soil organic carbon and available phosphorus were the most important factors to affect leaf physiological traits. We recommend that the optimum fertilization ratio of Sapindus mukorossi was 0.96Kg N, 0.80Kg P and 0.64Kg K per plant. Reasonable fertilization can improve soil fertility and leaf physiological traits, while excessive fertilization has negative effects on soil fertility, leaf physiology and yield. This study provides theoretical support for scientific cultivation of woody oil seed species.