bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimates of Genetic Variability, Heretability, Genetic Advance and Genetic Divergence in Bottle Gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Stadle.]
Authors: Singh Tribhuwan , Singh P. K. , Singh R. B. , Yashvardhan Vidyasagar , Kumar Abhishek , Singh Dinesh , Pandey Avanish
Published: August 2023

The present investigation was conducted at Department of Vegetable Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur-208002 (UP) during Kharif season in 2022. During the study the analysis of variance for 32 genotypes of Bottle gourd in the randomized block design and revealed significant difference for all the 11 characters, this indicated the presence of wide spectrum of variability among the genotypes. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than the respective genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all the traits, a narrow difference between PCV and GCV were recorded for all of the traits. High heritability and genetic advance as per cent of mean were observed for all eleven characters. The highest heritability was recorded in vine length and lowest for number of primary branches. The analysis of genetic divergence through Mahalanobis D2 statistics revealed that a considerable genetic diversity was found among genotypes. 32 genotypes of bottle gourd were grouped into 5 clusters. Out of the 5 clusters, Cluster IV had ten genotypes, Cluster III had eight genotypes, Cluster II had eight genotypes, Cluster I had three genotypes and Cluster V had three genotypes. Based on present investigation, it was concluded that in general, there was parallelism between genetic and geographic diversity. Maximum inter cluster distance was determined between clusters III and cluster V so crosses among genotypes of cluster III like KLG (8), AZAD HARIT ( 9), BG-7505 (10),  BG-7127,  BG-7512,  BG-7306,  BG-7502 and  BG-7231 can be made as a parent for getting better hybrids.
Agronomic Evaluation of Nitrogen and Boron on Growth and Yield of Baby Corn (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Srikanth Theerthala , Dowson Joy , Narayana R. Bala
Published: August 2023

The experiment was conducted at CRF, Department of Agronomy (SHUATS, Prayagraj) during Rabi season 2022-2023 on babycorn. Treatments consisting of 3 levels of nitrogen (40,50,60 kg/ha) and 3 levels of boron (5,6,7 kg/ha) and with A control. The experiment was arranged in a randomized block design with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. The result concluded that significantly higher plant height (125.32 cm), dry weight (85.96 g/plant), cob length (20.19 cm), cob girth 10.36 cm, number of cobs (2.17) , yield of cob without husk (1498.59 kg/ha) and yield of cob with husk (3110.46 kg/ha) is observed when applying nitrogen 60 kg/ha + boron 7 kg/ha (125.32 cm).
Phosphorus and Sulphur's Impact on Lentil Growth and Yield (Lens culinaris Medik.)
Authors: Balanarayana Raavi , Dawson Joy , Srikanth T.
Published: August 2023

During the Rabi season of 2022–2023, a field experiment was carried out at the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) India. to research how the nutrients phosphorus and sulphur affect the productivity and growth of lentil. The treatments consist of Phosphorus 20, 30, 40 kg/ha and Sulphur 10, 20, 30 kg/ha. The soil in the experimental plot had a sandy loamy texture, a pH of 7.8 that was virtually neutral, and just 0.35 percent organic carbon. The results showed that the application of phosphorus 40 kg/ha + Sulphur 30 kg/ha significantly influenced the higher plant height (39.81 cm), higher number of nodules (6.07), higher plant dry weight (14.40 g/plant), higher number of pods/plant (158.77), higher number of seeds/pod (1.94), higher 1000 seed weight (24.94 gm), higher seed yield (1.t/67 ha), and higher stover yield (2.92 t/ha). Treatment 9 (Phosphorus 40 kg/ha + Sulphur 30 kg/ha) likewise achieved greater net return (INR 68,600/ha), higher gross return (INR 1,00,200/ha), and higher B:C ratio (2.17).
Treatment of Effluent with an Anaerobic Aerobic Effluent Treatment System
Authors: Dölle Klaus , Lex Simon , Button Nathaniel
Published: August 2023

Today energy and clean water is a requirement in all societies worldwide to run productive processes. This affects the natural environment negatively and requires establishing more environmentally sustainable processes to decrease dependency and preserve the natural environment.

In this research approach a laboratory anaerobic aerobic effluent treatment system was designed, built, and started up with wastewater. After start-up the system was operated with prepared milk waste, liquid cow manure and wastewater at a hydraulic retention time of 3 days and 6 days. 

The laboratory anaerobic aerobic system was able to degrade the chemical oxygen demand, total solids and total suspended solids of all three influent liquids up to 95% and 98% for the 3-day and 6-day hydraulic retention time.

Maximum total solids removal was 87.89% and 92.43% for the 3-day and 6-day hydraulic retention time.

Total suspended solids removal yielded a maximum of 99.87 and 99.93% for the 3-day and 6-day hydraulic retention time.

The anaerobic sludge blanket reactor of the system operated at a temperature of 38°C and a pH between 7.5 and 8.2 achieved a biogas CH4 content of 65% ± 5% and a maximum total biogas production of 2.23 ml/h for the milk waste at a 3-day hydraulic retention time and a minimum biogas production of 1.36 ml/h for the waste water the 3-day and 6-day HRT respectively.

The operation of the designed laboratory anaerobic aerobic effluent treatment system showed that it is capable of reducing the effluent loading of a variety of waste streams as well as producing biogas that can be converted into bio-energy.
Comparative Study of In vitro Cytotoxic Effect of Leaves and Stems Extracts of Clitoria ternatea by Brine Shrimp Lethality Assay
Authors: Pal Arna , Chakraborty Sudipta , Roy Abani , Bala N. N.
Published: August 2023

Aim: The present study aims at the comparison of cytotoxic effect of methanolic extracts of leaves and stems of Clitoria ternatea (Fabaceae) by brine shrimp lethality assay.

Methodology: Dried leaves and stems were macerated with methanol separately and preliminary phytochemical screenings were carried out. Hatched brine shrimp nauplii were chosen for the assay. The effect was assessed by calculating % mortality of nauplii with different concentrations of the test extracts (1, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 μg/ml) and standard vincristine sulphate. All sets were performed in triplicate.

Results: The extracts of leaves and stems revealed to possess chiefly alkaloids, phenols and flavonoids. Both the extracts exhibited promising outcomes in dose dependant manner while significant responses in most of the doses were also calculated. Leaves were found to be more potent (LC50 value of 276.29 µg/ml.) compared to the stems (LC50 value of 322.95 µg/ml.). All the doses of the standard Vincristine sulphate were found to display significant activity compared to the control and was calculated to have LC50 value of 11.75 µg/ml.

Conclusion: The methanolic extracts of leaves and stems have shown potential cytotoxicity against brine shrimp which were highly comparable with standard. Further work on isolation, characterization and tests on cell lines may lead to identification of active principles.
Macro, Micro, and Everything in Between. Bridging the Gap: A Vision Toward the Creation of Multiscale Vascular Networks
Authors: Pirraco Rogério Pedro
Published: August 2023

Vascularization is a key issue for the clinical translation of tissue engineering strategies. This has been recognized in the field for almost two decades. Several strategies to solve this issue are proposed but none has decisively tackled the problem. This is in part due to an excessive focus on microvascularization that ignores the need of having macrovessels capable of being surgically connected to the patient's circulation upon implantation. Indeed, a strategy for macrovessel engineering must co‐exist with a strategy for microvessels. And if this is true, all the intermediate scales have to be addressed as well. Therefore, multiscale vascular networks must be the focus of tissue engineering vascularization efforts. In this work, a reflection is made on a possible path forward for researchers and engineers in the field to achieve the ultimate goal of efficient vascularization of engineered tissues and organs.
High Performance and High Yield Solution Processed IGZO Thin Film Transistors Fabricated with Low‐Temperature Annealed Hafnium Dioxide Gate Dielectric
Authors: Liu Yutong , Yu Yang , Li Tianzhi , Hu Yihong , Unnithan Ranjith , Skafidas Efstratios
Published: August 2023

Solution‐processed microelectronics offer advantages, including cost‐effectiveness, higher energy efficiency, and compatibility with rapid prototyping compared to their counterparts fabricated through traditional semiconductor manufacturing processes. Unfortunately, solution‐processed transistors exhibit wide performance variability and low yield. In this work, a solution‐processed transparent indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) thin film transistor with a low temperature‐annealed hafnium oxide dielectric layer is described. Post‐annealing temperatures for the sol–gel hafnium dioxide thin film are reduced to below 200 °C, significantly expanding the range of substrates on which the metal oxide dielectric can be deposited. The fabricated devices exhibit excellent characteristics with high field‐effect mobilities of over 85 cm2 V−1 s−1, along with low subthreshold swing below 140 mV dec−1, high on/off ratios, and near‐zero threshold voltages when operating stably at low‐operating voltages of 2 V. The solution processed transparent hafnium dioxide gate dielectric IGZO transistors are shown to exhibit comparatively significantly lower device variation and high yield, allowing for the reproducible fabrication of large‐area and transparent solution processed microelectronics systems.
Search Strategies for Alzheimer Protector Genes
Authors: Kosik Kenneth S.
Published: August 2023

Large families with autosomal dominant mutations leading to Alzheimer's disease and related conditions can show putative protective gene variants; however, no systematic search strategy exists to find these genes. Described here are the unique demographic circumstances and genetic setting in which the discovery of protective variants is likely. The identification of these genes may reveal pathways with therapeutic implications. ANN NEUROL 2023;94:613–617
Silver(I) complexes with nitrile ligands: New materials with versatile applications
Authors: Gutmańska Karolina , Szweda Piotr , Daszkiewicz Marek , Mazur Tomasz , Szaciłowski Konrad , Ciborska Anna , Dołęga Anna
Published: August 2023

In the present study, the structure, thermal stability, conductive properties, and antimicrobial activity of silver(I) complexes with nitrile ligands were investigated. For the construction of the materials, 2‐cyanopyridine (2‐cpy), 4‐cyanopyridine (4‐cpy), 1,2‐dicyanobenzene (1,2‐dcb), and 1,3‐dicyanobenzene (1,3‐dcb) were used in addition to the silver nitrite and nitrate. Four new compounds were isolated and structurally characterized: one molecular complex [Ag4(1,2‐dcb)4(NO3)4], two 1‐D coordination polymers [Ag(2‐cpy)2(NO2)]∞, [Ag2(1,3‐dcb)2(NO3)2]∞, and one 3‐D coordination polymer [Ag(4‐cpy)(NO2)]∞. The results indicate that the nitrile complexes display good antimicrobial properties against the tested bacterial and fungal strains. The presence of weakly coordinating CN groups increases the release of silver ions into the bacterial and yeast cell environments. Moreover, these materials exhibit unusual electrical properties in thin‐layer devices. On the other hand, the nitrite and nitrate counterions give rise to the low thermal stability of the complexes.
Polymer grafted aramid nanofiber reinforces immiscible waste polypropylene/poly(ethylene terephthalate)
Authors: Martey Shawn , Traywick Andrew , Kelly Jesse C. , Sobkowicz Margaret J. , Chen Wan‐Ting
Published: August 2023

Polypropylene (PP) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) are plastics commonly used for packaging because of their excellent barrier and mechanical properties. The properties of these plastics are often diminished after mechanical recycling, inevitably causing down‐cycling. This problem is exacerbated when different kinds of polymers mix. Aramid nanofibers have the potential to improve the mechanical properties of polymers due to their excellent mechanical properties but their poor dispersion in polymers is a challenge. Grafting polymers onto nanofibers can help address this challenge. In this work, different loading levels (1%, 2%, and 5%) of polymer grafted aramid nanofibers (ANFs) are blended with waste PP/PET (90/10), simulating a PP waste stream containing traces of PET contaminants. Scanning electronic microscopy, rheology, and differential scanning calorimetry results show the affinity of PP functionalized aramid nanofibers (PP_ANF) towards the PP matrix. At 1 wt% of the nanofiber, the size of the PET droplets in the PP matrix of the PP_ANF blend range from 0.2 to 2.0 μm while that of unmodified ANF and PET_ANF blends are in the range of 0.1–6.2 and 0.5–7.4 μm, respectively. In summary, polymer grafted ANFs have the tendency of improving properties of its like polymers due to similarity in the grafting polymer and the polymer matrix.
Organocatalytic Asymmetric Domino [3+2]‐Cycloaddition‐Acyl Transfer Reaction between Azomethine Ylides and α‐Nitro‐α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Sahoo Subas Chandra , Parida Chandrakanta , Pan Subhas Chandra
Published: August 2023

Herein we have developed an organocatalytic asymmetric domino [3+2]‐cycloaddition‐acyl transfer reaction between in situ generated azomethine ylides and α‐nitro‐α,β‐unsaturated ketones. The desired penta‐substituted pyrrolidine products were obtained in high yields and in moderate to good enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities. Also, an isomerization reaction in silica gel was performed for the formation of another diastereomer in high yields with retention of enantioselectivities.
Improving statins production: From non‐genetic strategies to genetic strategies
Authors: Fan Dexun , Tang Huayang , Yang Xiaorong , Zhao Fengguang , Han Shuangyan
Published: August 2023

Statins are lipid‐lowering drugs that selectively inhibit 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA) reductase, effectively reducing cholesterol synthesis. With improved nutritional conditions, the demand for statins is increasing in the global market. The use of microbial cell factories for statin biosynthesis has become advantageous due to the rapid advancements in biotechnology. These approaches offer simple operation and easy separation of products. This review provides an overview the strategies for statins production via microbial cell factories, including both traditional fermentation culture (non‐genetic) and modern synthetic biology manufacture (genetic). Firstly, the complex fermentation parameters and process control technology on submerged fermentation (SmF) and solid‐state fermentation (SSF) are introduced in detail. The potential use of recoverable agricultural wastes/(biomass) as a fermentation substrate in SSF for statin production is emphasized. Additionally, metabolic engineering strategies for constructing robust engineering strains and directed evolution are also discussed. The review highlights the potential and challenges of using microbial cell factories for statin production, and aims to promote greener production modes for statins.
UBE2S promotes malignant properties via VHL/HIF‐1α and VHL/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways and decreases sensitivity to sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wu Junyi , Xu Xiangjie , Wu Shasha , Shi Weiwei , Zhang Guang , Cao Yin , Wang Zhongxia , Wu Junhua , Jiang Chunping
Published: August 2023

Background

Ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme E2S (UBE2S), an E2 enzyme, is associated with the development of various tumors and exerts oncogenic activities. UBE2S is overexpressed in tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the key molecular mechanisms of UBE2S in HCC still need additional research. The aim of this study was to explore the role of UBE2S in HCC.

Methods

The expression levels of UBE2S in HCC tissues and cells were detected by western blot analysis, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis (qRT–PCR), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). A 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, wound healing assay, colony formation assay transwell assay, and animal models were used to detect the proliferation and migration ability of HCC cells. Western blot analysis, qRT–PCR, immunofluorescence, small‐interfering RNA (siRNA), and plasmid transfection and coimmunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) assays were performed to detect the interaction among UBE2S, von Hippel–Lindau (VHL), hypoxia‐inducible factor 1‐alpha (HIF‐1α), Janus kinase‐2 (JAK2), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3).

Results

In this study, we found that high UBE2S expression was associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. In addition, UBE2S expression was upregulated in HCC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of UBE2S inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo by directly interacting with VHL to downregulate the HIF‐1α and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways. Accordingly, overexpression of UBE2S significantly enhanced the proliferation and migration of HCC cells in vitro via VHL to upregulate HIF‐1α and JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways. Furthermore, we found that downregulation of UBE2S expression enhanced the sensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

UBE2S enhances malignant properties via the VHL/HIF‐1α and VHL/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways and reduces sensitivity to sorafenib in HCC. The findings of this study may open a new approach for HCC diagnosis and provide a potential option for the treatment of HCC.
Environmental Impact Improvement of Chitosan‐Based Mixed‐Matrix Membranes Manufacture for CO2 Gas Separation by Life Cycle Assessment
Authors: Echarri Itsaso , Casado-Coterillo Clara , Rumayor Marta , Navajas Alberto , Gandía Luis M.
Published: August 2023

The environmental impacts of the manufacture of chitosan (CS) and polymeric poly(1‐trimethylsilyl‐1‐propyne) (PTMSP) mixed‐matrix membranes (MMMs) for CO2 separation by life cycle assessment (LCA) are compared. An ionic liquid of non‐reported toxicity is used in CS membranes to enhance the mechanical strength, and different fillers are used to increase mechanical and functional properties: ETS‐10, ZIF‐8, HKUST‐1, and Zeolite A. Results with the same CO2 permeation flux indicate that ETS‐10/IL‐CS is the membrane manufacture with highest impacts due to its lower permeability. When comparing impacts with same permeation areas, the polymeric one is the membrane with highest impacts. Biopolymer and polymer manufacture are the components with highest contribution to the total environmental impacts of each membrane. To decrease all their impacts below fossil polymer membrane for the same CO2 permeation flux, CS membranes permeabilities should be improved by a numerical factor of 1000, 100, and 2 for the ETS‐10, ZIF‐8, and HKUST‐1/IL‐CS MMMs, respectively.
Valence Delocalization and Metal–Metal Bonding in Carbon‐Bridged Mixed‐Valence Iron Complexes**
Authors: Fataftah Majed S. , Mercado Brandon Q. , Holland Patrick L.
Published: August 2023

The carbide ligand in the iron–molybdenum cofactor (FeMoco) in nitrogenase bridges iron atoms in different oxidation states, yet it is difficult to discern its ability to mediate magnetic exchange interactions due to the structural complexity of the cofactor. Here, we describe two mixed‐valent diiron complexes with C‐based ketenylidene bridging ligands, and compare the carbon bridges with the more familiar sulfur bridges. The ground state of the [Fe2(μ‐CCO)2]+ complex with two carbon bridges (4) is S=
, and it is valence delocalized on the Mössbauer timescale with a small thermal barrier for electron hopping that stems from the low Fe−C force constant. In contrast, one‐electron reduction of the [Fe2(μ‐CCO)] complex with one carbon bridge (2) affords a mixed‐valence species with a high‐spin ground state (S=
), and the Fe−Fe distance contracts by 1 Å. Spectroscopic, magnetic, and computational studies of the latter reveal an Fe−Fe bonding interaction that leads to complete valence delocalization. Analysis of near‐IR intervalence charge transfer transitions in 5 indicates a very large double exchange constant (B) in the range of 780–965 cm−1. These results show that carbon bridges are extremely effective at stabilizing valence delocalized ground states in mixed‐valent iron dimers.
μ2‐η1:η1‐N2 Bridged Bimetallic Dinitrogen Complexes: Geometry of the First Excited State in Connection to N2 π‐Photoactivation
Authors: Bhardwaj Akhil , Mondal Bhaskar
Published: August 2023

Bimetallic end‐on μ2‐η1:η1‐N2 bridging dinitrogen complexes have served as the platform for photochemical N2 activation, mainly for the N−N cleavage. However, the alternate N−N π‐photoactivation route has remained largely unexplored. This study strengthens the notion of weakening the N−N bond through the population of π* orbital upon electronic excitation from the ground to the first excited state using four prototypical complexes based on Fe (1), Mo (2), and Ru (3,4). The complexes 1–4 possess characteristic N−N π* based LUMO (π*‐π*‐π*) centered on their M−N−N−M core, which was earlier postulated to play a central role in the N2 photoactivation. Vertical electronic excitation of the highest oscillator strength involves transitions to the N−N π*‐based acceptor orbital (π*‐π*‐π*) in complexes 1–4. This induces geometry relaxation of the first excited metal‐to‐nitrogen (π*) charge transfer (1MNCT) state leading to a “zigzag” M−N−N−M core in the equilibrium structure. Obtaining the equilibrium geometry in the first excited state with the full‐sized complexes widens the scope of N−N π‐photoactivation with μ2‐η1:η1‐N2 bridging dinitrogen complexes. Promisingly, the elongated N−N bond and bent ∠MNN angle in the photoexcited S1 state of 1–4 resemble their radical‐ and di‐anion forms, which lead toward thermodynamically feasible N−N protonation in the S1 excited state.
Phosphatidylserin in der Hautpflege
Authors: Lautenschläger Hans
Published: August 2023

Verfügbarkeit, Wirkung und Verträglichkeit von Inhaltsstoffen kosmetischer Präparate und topisch‐pharmazeutischer Zubereitungen spiegeln die Kooperation von Epidermis und Mikrobiom der Haut wider. Physiologische Komponenten in angemessenen Dosierungen bieten daher die beste Voraussetzung für nebenwirkungsfreie (Langzeit‐)Anwendungen.

Wasser enthaltende Hautpflegemittel, dazu gehören unter anderem Öl‐in‐Wasser‐ (O/W) und Wasser‐in‐Öl‐ (W/O) Emulsionen, erfordern Hilfsstoffe, um die mikrobiologische, physikalische und chemische Stabilität der Produkte sicherzustellen. Hilfsstoffe belasten sowohl Haut als auch Mikrobiom. Wasserfreie Oleogele aus physiologisch kompatiblen und biologisch abbaubaren Komponenten kommen weitgehend ohne Hilfsstoffe aus. Phosphatidylserin, ein physiologischer Bestandteil pflanzlicher und humaner Zellmembranen, ist für die Mikrobiom‐kompatible kosmetische und indikationsbegleitende Hautpflege geeignet.
Fuzzy‐based unequal clustering protocol for underwater wireless sensor networks
Authors: Panchal Hetal , Gajjar Sachin
Published: August 2023

Underwater wireless sensor network (UWSN) is a network made up of underwater sensor nodes, anchor nodes, surface sink nodes or surface stations, and the offshore sink node. Energy consumption, limited bandwidth, propagation delay, high bit error rate, stability, scalability, and network lifetime are the key challenges related to underwater wireless sensor networks. Clustering is used to mitigate these issues. In this work, fuzzy‐based unequal clustering protocol (FBUCP) is proposed that does cluster head selection using fuzzy logic as it can deal with the uncertainties of the harsh atmosphere in the water. Cluster heads are selected using linguistic input variables like distance to the surface sink node, residual energy, and node density and linguistic output variables like cluster head advertisement radius and rank of underwater sensor nodes. Unequal clustering is used to have an unequal size of the cluster which deals with the problem of excess energy usage of the underwater sensor nodes near the surface sink node, called the hot spot problem. Data gathered by the cluster heads are transmitted to the surface sink node using neighboring cluster heads in the direction of the surface sink node. Dijkstra's shortest path algorithm is used for multi‐hop and inter‐cluster routing. The FBUCP is compared with the LEACH‐UWSN, CDBR, and FBCA protocols for underwater wireless sensor networks. A comparative analysis shows that in first node dies, the FBUCP is up to 80% better, has 64.86% more network lifetime, has 91% more number of packets transmitted to the surface sink node, and is up to 58.81% more energy efficient than LEACH‐UWSN, CDBR, and FBCA.
Autoimmune encephalitis during pregnancy: A diagnostic and therapeutic challenge—A systematic review with individual patients' analysis and clinical recommendations
Authors: Dono Fedele , Consoli Stefano , Tappatà Maria , Evangelista Giacomo , Russo Mirella , Lanzone Jacopo , Pozzilli Valeria , Nucera Bruna , Rinaldi Fabrizio , Di Pietro Martina , Tinti Lorenzo , Troisi Serena , Calisi Dario , D'Apolito Maria , Narducci Flavia , Assenza Giovanni , Anzellotti Francesca , Brigo Francesco , Vollono Catello , Onofrj Marco , Sensi Stefano L. , Michelucci Roberto
Published: August 2023

Several reports have described the autoimmune encephalitis' (AE) possible onset during pregnancy. In this systematic review, we summarize the available data on the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to AE during pregnancy, highlighting the associated maternal and fetal clinical outcomes. A systematic search of the literature was performed. The following databases were used: PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and CrossRef. The revision was registered on the PROSPERO platform (CRD42022336357). Forty‐nine patients were included. AE onset was mainly observed during the first and the second trimester of pregnancy with psychiatric manifestations and seizures as main onset symptoms. CSF analysis showed AE‐specific autoantibody positivity in 33 patients (anti‐NMDA receptor as the most frequent). EEG generally showed normal findings. MRI revealed pathological findings in less than half of patients. Tumor screening was positive in 14 cases. First‐line immunotherapy (single or combined) was generally employed while second line was administered in a minority of patients. Levetiracetam was the most used antiseizure medication. Cesarean section was performed in 18 women. Most of the women had an excellent early outcome after delivery but 22 showed persistent neurological deficits in long‐term follow‐up. Fetal outcome was positive in 33 cases, whereas 12 cases of fetal death were reported. A logistic regression showed that no variable significantly influenced the odds of good/bad maternal and fetal clinical outcome. Diagnosis and treatment of AE during pregnancy is challenging. The rate of miscarriage in women with AE seems to be higher than the general population. In addition, mothers may show long‐term neurological deficits.
Integrating cloud and mist computing to lower latency in IoT topologies
Authors: Herrero Rolando
Published: August 2023

Traditional IoT topologies involve access and core networks that share a common edge. On this edge, border routers and gateways are responsible for converting protocols at different layers of the stack. Devices like sensors and actuators sit on the access network while applications are located on the core network. The application performs predictions that trigger actuation based on received sensor readouts. Prediction, in turn, is the result of machine learning (ML) algorithms that are typically executed on the cloud. An alternative to this approach consists of performing the prediction on constrained devices on the IoT access network. This leads to Tiny ML (TinyML) and mist computing. In this context, there is a trade‐off between latency and computational power that becomes a deciding factor when choosing the application to carry on predictions. This paper introduces an algorithm that can be used to dynamically select the right application based on network layer parameters.
The impact of multifocal perineural invasion in predicting survival in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma: A multicenter investigation
Authors: Hasmat Shaheen , Heller Gillian , Cook Lachlan , Gupta Ruta , Clark Jonathan R. , Ooi Eng H. , Low Tsu‐Hui (Hubert)
Published: August 2023

Background

Perineural invasion (PNI) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) does not contribute to the current American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition (AJCC8) staging manual. This study seeks to validate the effect of multifocal PNI in a large cohort of patients.

Methods

Patients undergoing primary surgical treatment of OSCC with curative intent between 1995 and 2022 was retrieved from two Australian head and neck databases. PNI was categorized as a single focus or multiple foci. Study end points included disease‐specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Complete data for survival analysis was available in 993 patients. Multifocal PNI was associated with a 61% increased risk of death due to OSCC (HR 1.61, 95% CI 1.11–2.33, p = 0.014) and a 32% increased risk of death from any cause (HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.01–1.73, p = 0.045).

Conclusions

Multifocal PNI is a significant predictor of survival in OSCC.
Recent trends in hereditary breast cancer incidence by race and age in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa: An 11‐year single‐centre retrospective study (2011‐2021)
Authors: Makhetha Mpoi , Chabilal Namitha , Aldous Colleen
Published: August 2023

Breast cancer incidence has increased globally in the last decade, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries. In Sub‐Saharan Africa, breast cancer trends have been described only in a few populations owing to the scarcity of population‐specific data. Using data collected between 2011 and 2021 at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, this retrospective study describes demographic and genetic trends for hereditary breast cancer patients in the KwaZulu‐Natal province, South Africa. Six hundred and forty‐five patients were included, of whom 44.3% were Black, 36.8% Indian, 15.6% White and 3.2% Coloured. The number of annual new cases increased from eight in 2011 to 145 in 2021, with a notable increase among Blacks. The mean onset age was 46 years, and Black patients were diagnosed ~10 years earlier than White and Indian patients. Triple‐negative breast cancers accounted for 20.3% of hereditary cases, and 51.1% of them were Black. Bilateral and recurrent breast cancers constituted 7.4%, while pathogenic sequence variants in BRCA1/2 were reported in 10.4% of all patients, and the majority were Blacks and Indians. Overall, the KwaZulu‐Natal province has seen an increase in hereditary breast cancer incidence in the past decade. Despite testing negative for pathogenic sequence variants, Black women frequently presented with breast cancers that are BRCA1‐like, while Indians presented with extensive family history. This suggests that South African patients may require unique approaches to interventions, such as early detection and awareness programs among Blacks and increased genetic screening among Indians.
Prevalence of Low Bone Mass and Osteoporosis in Ireland: the Dual‐Energy X‐Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) Health Informatics Prediction (HIP) Project
Authors: Carey John J. , Erjiang E , Wang Tingyan , Yang Lan , Dempsey Mary , Brennan Attracta , Yu Ming , Chan Wing P. , Whelan Bryan , Silke Carmel , O'Sullivan Miriam , Rooney Bridie , McPartland Aoife , O'Malley Gráinne
Published: August 2023

Osteoporosis is a common disease that has a significant impact on patients, healthcare systems, and society. World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria for postmenopausal women were established in 1994 to diagnose low bone mass (osteopenia) and osteoporosis using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA)‐measured bone mineral density (BMD) to help understand the epidemiology of osteoporosis, and identify those at risk for fracture. These criteria may also apply to men ≥50 years, perimenopausal women, and people of different ethnicity. The DXA Health Informatics Prediction (HIP) project is an established convenience cohort of more than 36,000 patients who had a DXA scan to explore the epidemiology of osteoporosis and its management in the Republic of Ireland where the prevalence of osteoporosis remains unknown. In this article we compare the prevalence of a DXA classification low bone mass (T‐score < −1.0) and of osteoporosis (T‐score ≤ −2.5) among adults aged ≥40 years without major risk factors or fractures, with one or more major risk factors, and with one or more major osteoporotic fractures. A total of 33,344 subjects met our study inclusion criteria, including 28,933 (86.8%) women; 9362 had no fractures or major risk factors, 14,932 had one or more major clinical risk factors, and 9050 had one or more major osteoporotic fractures. The prevalence of low bone mass and osteoporosis increased significantly with age overall. The prevalence of low bone mass and osteoporosis was significantly greater among men and women with major osteoporotic fractures than healthy controls or those with clinical risk factors. Applying our results to the national population census figure of 5,123,536 in 2022 we estimate between 1,039,348 and 1,240,807 men and women aged ≥50 years have low bone mass, whereas between 308,474 and 498,104 have osteoporosis. These data are important for the diagnosis of osteoporosis in clinical practice, and national policy to reduce the illness burden of osteoporosis. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Pharmacokinetic Modeling Using Real‐World Data to Optimize Unfractionated Heparin Dosing in Pediatric Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Evaluate Target Achievement–Clinical Outcomes Relationship
Authors: Salem Ahmed M. , Smith Trey , Wilkes Jacob , Bailly David K. , Heyrend Caroline , Profsky Michael , Yellepeddi Venkata K. , Gopalakrishnan Mathangi
Published: August 2023

Unfractionated heparin (UFH) is a commonly used anticoagulant for pediatric patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), but evidence is lacking on the ideal dosing. We aimed to (1) develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model for UFH, measured through anti–factor Xa assay; (2) optimize UFH starting infusions and dose titrations through simulations; and (3) explore UFH exposure–clinical outcomes relationship. Data from 218 patients admitted to Utah's Primary Children's Hospital were retrospectively collected. A 1‐compartment PK model with time‐varying clearance (CL) adequately described UFH PK. Weight on CL and volume of distribution and ECMO circuit change on CL were significant covariates. The typical estimates for initial CL and first‐order rate constant to reach steady‐state CL were 0.57 L/(h·10 kg) and 0.02/h. Comparable to non‐ECMO patients, the typical steady‐state CL was 0.81 L/(h·10 kg). Simulations showed that a 75 IU/kg UFH bolus dose followed by starting infusions of 25 and 20 IU/h/kg for patients aged younger than 6 years and 6 years or older, respectively, achieved the therapeutic target in 56.6% of all patients, whereas only 3.1% exceeded the target. The proposed UFH titration schemes achieved the target in more than 90% of patients while less than 0.63% were above the target after 24 and 48 hours of treatment. The median intensive care unit survival time in patients within and below the target at 24 hours was 136 and 66 hours, respectively. In conclusion, PK model of UFH was developed for pediatric patients on ECMO. The proposed UFH dosing scheme attained the anti–factor Xa target rapidly and safely.
Real‐World Experience With Deutetrabenazine for Huntington Disease Chorea
Authors: Curtis Kendall , Sung Victor
Published: August 2023

Huntington disease (HD) is a hereditary neurodegenerative disorder with a hallmark feature of chorea. While no disease‐modifying therapies currently exist for HD, symptomatic treatment of HD‐associated chorea includes US Food and Drug Administration–approved vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 inhibitors—tetrabenazine and deutetrabenazine. Deutetrabenazine was more recently approved (2017), and while structurally similar to tetrabenazine, deutetrabenazine has a unique pharmacokinetic profile that allows for a longer half‐life, reduced plasma fluctuations, and less frequent dosing. In pivotal trials, deutetrabenazine seemed to have an improved safety and tolerability profile over tetrabenazine but real‐world data to confirm this are lacking. Here, we evaluate our real‐world clinical experience with deutetrabenazine for HD‐associated chorea. We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients with HD who initiated treatment with deutetrabenazine from January 2017 to May 2019 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Total maximal chorea scores, patient‐reported subjective efficacy, dosing information, and subjective reports of adverse events (AEs) were abstracted for each patient. Our review included 58 patients with a mean length of treatment of 476.4 days. In the reviewed time period, the mean treatment difference in total maximal chorea scores was 4.4. The combined total rate of occurrence of any AEs was relatively low, at 32.8%, and the most commonly reported AEs were sedation (15.5%), insomnia (6.9%), and diarrhea (3.4%). Our real‐world data support current literature indicating that deutetrabenazine is an effective and well‐tolerated treatment for HD‐associated chorea. Further studies repeating this on a larger scale, across a greater geography and practice pattern, are needed.
Preparation and properties of high‐soluble wheat gluten protein‐based meat analogues
Authors: Sun Yusha , Dong Mengxue , Bai Jie , Liu Xuebo , Yang Xiujuan , Duan Xiang
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Wheat gluten protein (WGP) is poorly soluble and does not easily form fibrous structures. The meat analogues prepared from it have an unsatisfactory texture and poor water‐holding capacity (WHC). Our previous work indicated that pH‐shifting combined with heat treatment can significantly improve the solubility and emulsifiability of WGP. In this work, WGP was therefore treated by pH‐cycling (m‐WGP) to improve the solubility and then applied in the preparation of meat analogues by high moisture extrusion.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the addition of m‐WGP improved the texture characteristics and WHC of the extrudates significantly (282.4) and made the extrudates show a tighter organizational structure, according to scanning electron microscope (SEM) images. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis showed that the addition of m‐WGP resulted in a more uniform moisture distribution in the extrudate. The free sulfhydryl group result showed that the addition of m‐WGP significantly increased the free sulfhydryl group content, which was beneficial to the formation of disulfide bonds to enhance the tissue structure.

CONCLUSION

When the addition content of m‐WGP was 10%, the gluten extrudate exhibited a good WHC and uniform moisture distribution but the excessive hardness and chewiness were not suitable for simulating meat. When the additional m‐WGP content reached 50%, the gluten extrudate had textural characteristics that were closest to commercial plant‐based meat and real meat, with the potential to be used as a raw material to simulate meat. Accordingly, this work improves the processing properties of WGP and explores plant‐based ingredients for meat analogues. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessing Active Bowel Inflammation in Crohn's Disease Using Intestinal Ultrasound
Authors: You Myung‐won , Moon Sung Kyoung , Lee Yong Dae , Oh Shin Ju , Park Seong Jin , Lee Chang Kyun
Published: August 2023

Aim

To analyze the correlation between intestinal ultrasound (IUS) and serum and fecal biomarkers, and the characteristics of small bowel disease, for the assessment of active bowel inflammation.

Methods

Patients with Crohn's disease (CD) who underwent an initial IUS examination between July 2018 and November 2022 at our institution were included retrospectively. We divided small and large bowels into seven segments, and recorded the presence of active inflammation according to following criteria: bowel wall thickness ≥ mm with ≥1 of feature of active disease on IUS. The correlations between IUS‐assessed activity and serum C‐reactive protein (CRP, mg/dL) and fecal calprotectin (FC, μg/g) levels were analyzed.

Results

A total of 127 patients were included (mean age: 32.42 ± 12.07, M:F = 90:37, median disease duration 6 years [0–35]). Of them, 78 showed active bowel inflammation (61.4%), with inflammation distal to the terminal ileum being the most common disease location (n = 61, 78.2%). FC and serum CRP levels were significantly correlated with the number of segments with active inflammation (rho = 0.58, 0.48), number of segments with complications (r = 0.35, 0.31), and US activity score (r = 0.62, 0.54). With FC cutoff values of 100 and 150 μg/g, the concordance rates for patients with active small bowel disease were 78.7% (26/33) and 72.7% (24/33), respectively, which were better than those for other disease locations.

Conclusions

Disease activity determined by IUS was significantly correlated with the biomarkers, with a better concordance rate in patients with active small bowel disease than in those with other disease locations with FC cut‐off values of 100 and 150 μg/g.
Effect of Ionic Strength and Anion Identity on Rare‐Earth Element Chelation by Poly(acrylic acid)
Authors: Gallagher Connor M. B. , Schulz Michael D.
Published: August 2023

Rare‐earth elements (REEs) are critical components of many modern technologies, but their efficient separation and purification continue to pose significant challenges. Metal‐binding polymers may enable the development of promising alternative approaches to conventional separation techniques (e.g., solvent extraction), and insights into the interactions between the metal ions and polymers in solution are crucial to such development. In this work,  the effect of ionic strength on the chelation of REEs by poly(acrylic acid) is investigated using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) to measure the metal‐binding thermodynamics. ITC experiments revealed that when ionic strength increases from increasing the sodium acetate buffer strength, polymer‐REE binding becomes increasingly disfavored. However, when ionic strength is increased by the addition of sodium chloride, binding again becomes increasingly disfavored, but to a lesser extent than when ionic strength increases from increasing the buffer strength. Additionally, the reduction in binding affinity is enthalpically driven when ionic strength is raised with sodium chloride, while it is entropically driven when raised with sodium acetate buffer, suggesting competive binding by the acetate ions. These results highlight the importance of ionic strength in polymer‐metal binding thermodynamics and will guide the development of new processes for the purification of critical metals.
Overconfidence, underconfidence, and entry in contests
Authors: Bansah Marcus , Neilson William , Lee Jun Soo
Published: August 2023

This paper provides a theoretic foundation for overconfidence driving entry into competition and underconfidence leading to avoidance. We do this using the classic Tullock rent‐seeking contest, modeling overconfidence as an overestimate of one's probability of success and underestimate of an opponent's probability of success and underconfidence as an underestimate of one's probability of success. When an unknowingly overconfident player 1 who overestimates his winning probability faces an unbiased opponent who is aware of player 1's overconfidence, player 1 exerts more effort than player 2, and player 1's objective expected payoff is greater than player 2's. On the other hand, when an unknowingly overconfident player 1 who underestimates his opponent's winning probability faces this unbiased opponent who is aware of player 1's overconfidence, both players reduce their effort and player 1's objective expected payoff is lower than player 2's. However, player 1's subjective expected payoff, which governs entry into the contest, is higher than player 2's, and overconfident players find contests more appealing than unbiased players do, even unbiased players facing other unbiased players. Underconfident players have subjective expected payoffs that are even lower than their objective expected payoffs, so underconfident players tend to avoid competition. The data generated from repeated contests would make it harder for underconfident players to learn of their bias than overconfident ones.
Study: Half of people around the world at risk for mental disorder by age 75
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2023

Half of people around the world are at risk for developing a mental disorder by age 75, suggest researchers from Harvard Medical School and the University of Queensland in Australia, after analyzing the World Health Organization (WHO) surveys that have assessed the age of onset and lifetime prevalence for diverse mental disorders based on population‐based data from multiple countries. The new research is published in Lancet Psychiatry.
Maryland partnership uses free app to address youth MH needs
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2023

A collaboration between the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Maryland and Uneo Health — a community health care provider — aims to address the mental health care needs of youth in Maryland via a free app that provides self‐care and community connections.
APA policy aims to end required disclosure of law student's MH
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2023

Observing that asking questions about a law student's mental health status might dissuade them from seeking treatment due to fear about being denied admission to the bar is the impetus behind a new policy unanimously approved by the American Psychological Association (APA).
Recurrent laryngeal motor nerve conduction studies in a rat model: Establishing an objective measure for investigating laryngeal innervation
Authors: Baertsch Hans , Cvancara David J. , Paniello Randal C. , Hillel Allen D. , Bhatt Neel K.
Published: August 2023

Introduction/Aims

Disease or injury can cause neuromuscular changes to the larynx that can affect voice, breathing, and swallowing. Motor nerve conduction studies have had limited use in the study of laryngeal neurophysiology, despite their importance in other anatomic sites. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of performing recurrent laryngeal motor nerve conduction studies (rlMNCS) in a rat model.

Methods

rlMNCS were performed in 15 rats under anesthesia. A bipolar stimulating electrode was placed on the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) 5 mm below the cricoid cartilage. Via direct laryngoscopy, a recording electrode was placed transorally into the thyroarytenoid muscle. The RLN was maximally stimulated to determine the compound muscle action potential (CMAP). Three consecutive trials were averaged.

Results

The mean stimulating threshold to the RLN to achieve a CMAP from the thyroarytenoid was 1.7 ± 0.6 mA. RLN stimulation caused a visible adductor twitch of the vocal fold in all animals. The mean negative amplitude was 2.0 ± 0.8 mV, and the total area was 1.0 ± 0.4 mV ms. The CMAP latency and negative duration were 1.0 ± 0.1 ms and 0.9 ± 0.2 ms, respectively.

Discussion

rlMNCS are feasible and may be useful in understanding laryngeal neurophysiology with disease or injury. This work could provide a tractable animal model for studying and monitoring treatment of neuromuscular conditions affecting voice, breathing, and swallowing.