bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiplatelet Efficacy of 75 mg Aspirin Once a Day versus Twice a Day Dosing in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus PatientsA Longitudinal Open Label Study
Authors: Phulpagare Mayur B , Tiwari Smita A , Hiray Rajesh S
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Patients of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) characteristically have platelets hyper-reactivity and accelerated turnover rates leading increased adhesion, aggregation and procoagulant activity. Half-life of aspirin is only 20 minutes and it, therefore, irreversibly inactivates limited number of platelets over this short duration, when given as a once-daily dose. Newly generated-active platelets enter circulation, thereafter, and weaken antiplatelet effect of aspirin. Therefore, single daily dose of 75 mg aspirin may be insufficient to provide 24 hours protection against cardiovascular events, in these patients. Aim: To study and compare antiplatelet efficacy of 75 mg aspirin twice a day (75 mg BD) versus 75 mg aspirin once a day (75 mg OD) in patients of T2DM and to study the effect of variation in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels on antiplatelet efficacy. Materials and Methods: This was a longitudinal, open label, comparative trial conducted at tertiary care hospital for a period of nine months. A total of 129 subjects, diagnosed with T2DM according to American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria 2018 (N=129) were enrolled in the study, of which nine were lost to follow-up and antiplatelet efficacy of aspirin dosing was examined at baseline and three-monthly intervals thereafter, till nine months, using colorimetric method. Results: Mean age of enrolled patients was 62 years (Interquartile Range (IQR) 57-66). HbA1c levels of both the groups were comparable (p=0.77) at baseline. At the end of nine months, percentage platelet aggregability of the 75 mg B.D. group (29.30±10.39) was significantly lower (p<0.00001) than that of 75 mg OD (38.20±10.36). There was no correlation observed between HbA1c variation and percentage platelet aggregability for entire study population. Conclusion: Present study concludes that, 75 mg OD aspirin as a strategy for secondary cardiovascular disease prevention is advocated, but not adequate in T2DM patients. Splitting a dose of 150 mg/day aspirin as 75 mg twice is more effective, due to increased platelet turnover in diabetic patients.
Assessment of Intraoperative Blood Transfusion Practices during Elective Surgeries in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Prospective Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Vaidya Mansi Uday , Shah Prerana Nirav
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Blood transfusion remains the cornerstone of managing volume depletion and blood loss during surgeries. There are always patients and situations which clearly benefit from blood transfusion intraoperatively. Crystalloids and colloids cannot replace blood, as a substitute when the patient’s oxygen carrying capacity has been compromised. Anaemia in acute and chronic conditions is associated with increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Thus, blood transfusion has a very important role in the perioperative management of the patient. Aim: To ascertain the common indications for which anaesthesiologists start perioperative blood transfusion, the rates of intraoperative overtransfusion, and to assess the variation in the blood transfusion practices at the study Institution from standard guidelines. Materials and Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 168 patients patients operated at Seth G.S. Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, from February 2017 to July 2017. The patients were adult American Society of Anaesthesiologists Physical Status (ASAPS) I and II, undergoing elective surgeries and required transfused blood intraoperatively. Operating room anaesthesiologists completed a record form for each of the patient. The form included details of the patient like age, gender, weight, type and duration of surgery, preoperative haemoglobin (done within 48 hours preoperatively), intraoperative blood loss, fluids and blood, and blood products transfused intraoperatively. The postoperative Haemoglobin (Hb) levels (done between 6 hours24 hours postoperatively) were also recorded. Results: The study showed that, 76 out of the 168 (45.2%) patients, who were transfused blood intraoperatively had been overtransfused, i.e., their postoperative Hb values were more than 10 g/dL. Blood loss was the sole indication for transfusion in 41 out of 168 (24.4%) patients. Blood was transfused in patients with low preoperative Hb in 21/168 (12.5%) patients, while it was done on surgeon’s request in 13/168 (7.7%) cases. Pallor, hypovolaemia and haemodynamic instability as sole indications included only 4.8%, 2.4% and 1.2% cases, respectively. Conclusion: The present study revealed that a significant number (45.2%) of patients were overtransfused. A wide variation exists from the standard guidelines among anaesthesiologists. Implementation of restrictive transfusion strategies and a protocol-based intraoperative transfusion is required to optimise patient outcome.
Prevalence of Endometrial Polyp by Office Hysteroscopy at a Tertiary Care Centre in Western Maharashtra: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Roy Bidhan , Menon Aruna , Poddar Soumen Das , Bhattacharya Ritam
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Endometrial polyps occur in different reproductive age groups and make it a distinct pathological entity with diverse clinical manifestations. Aim: To determine the prevalence of endometrial polyp detected by office hysteroscopy, among different cohorts of patients attending the Gynaecology outpatient department at a tertiary care centre in western Maharashtra, India. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in women who underwent office hysteroscopy, in view of infertility and Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) at a tertiary care centre in western Maharashtra, India from November 2020 to October 2021. The study included a total of 227 patients which were divided into four cohorts of women namely, infertility patients (aged 25-35 years) (N=115), AUB patients (aged 40- 44 years) (N=29), AUB patients (aged 45-50 years) (N=49) and in postmenopausal women (aged more than 51 years) (N=34). Results were expressed in terms of frequency and percentages. Results: Endometrial polyp was detected among 45 patients (19.82%) out of a total 227 patients who underwent office hysteroscopy. The prevalence rate was 16 (13.9) among women with infertility, 5 (17.2) among 40-44 years old women with AUB, 15 (30.6) among 45-50 years old women with AUB and 9 (26.5) among postmenopausal women. Conclusion: Endometrial polyp has a significant prevalence in patients with infertility as well as in patients with AUB. It can be easily detected by diagnostic office hysteroscopy, which should be included in the work-up of such patients.
An Economic Analysis of Trends in Cost of Production and MSP in India
Authors: Sutradhar Sumit , Gautam Aryan , Shivani K. I.
Published: November 2022

Objectives: To study a two-decade economic analysis of Minimum Support Price (MSP) trends compared to the cost of production of major crops of India and understand the real impact of price policy formed by the Government of India.

Methods: The period of the analysis is from 1999 to 2019 (20 years) and the data sources consulted are Cost of cultivation and Farm Harvest price from Directorate of economics and statistics, Minimum support price from Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and Awareness report of farmers by Questioner based survey. Compound annual growth rate and percentage analysis are used as a statistical tool for this research. To access the impact, Tamil Nadu has been taken as the model state with two model crops Paddy and Cotton and its comparative analysis is done with reference states Punjab and Maharashtra for Cost of Cultivation components and Profitability. 

Findings: The finding of this research unravels that Wheat, Groundnut and Cotton are getting supported largely due to MSP policy, Paddy and Black gram are barely supportive as there is cutthroat competition between MSP and the Cost of Cultivation and sugarcane is not supported by MSP policy. The comparative and profitability analysis unravels how labour cost is the major cost in Tamil Nadu and paddy is profitable whereas cotton is not.

Novelty: Therefore, this research depicts that MSP has been supporting the farming community on the policy end. But it’s not working as a fundamental supporting system for the majority of farmers as it’s not exercised by majority of farmers due to low awareness and inefficiency of the system.
Heavy Metal Contamination Index, Metal Index and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Content of Ochani River in Ogoni, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwogu Uchechi Emmanuella , Udebuani Angela Chika , Nicholas Ugwu Tochukwu
Published: November 2022

The Heavy metal Pollution Index (HPI), Metal Index (MI) and the Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) contents of crude oil-polluted Ochani River in Ejamah-Ebubu community were investigated using physicochemical properties, Heavy Metal Analytic Method (AAS), GC-MS method and heavy metal pollution model. The results showed that Ochani River sampling station 2 (ORPS 2) had highest values of temperature, conductivity, turbidity, total solid (TS), total dissolved solid (TDS), Total Suspended Solid (TSS), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and nitrates with values as (32oC, 260 µScm-1, 42NTU, 460 mg/L, 526 mg/L, 400 mg/L, 15 mg/L, 10 mg/L, 25 mg/L and 7.5 mg/L respectively) compared to Ochani River sampling station 1 (ORPS 1) with values as (30oC, 200 µScm-1, 38NTU, 400 mg/L, 500 mg/L, 380 mg/L, 13 mg/L, 9.0 mg/L, 22 mg/L and 6.8mg/L respectively). However, these values of ORPS 1and 2 were higher than the unpolluted water sample (UWS) and WHO standard limits. Heavy metals obtained in Ochani River were rankedas Fe > Cu >Pb> Zn > Cr > Cd >As. The values obtained from crude oil polluted water samples were highest when compared with the values obtained of the UWS and WHO standard limit. The heavy metal pollution index of Ochani River was calculated as 402.32 mg/L which was higher compared with the critical pollution index value of 100. The metal index obtained was 49.88mg/L showing that the water quality classified to be seriously polluted. The Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) components present in Ochani River include fluorene, naphthalene, dibenzyl(a,h)anthracene, benzo(k)fluoranthene and benzo(a)pyrene. However, these values of PAH components obtained were highest in ORPS 2 compared to ORPS 1. No PAH content was detected in UWS. However, the values of PAH obtained in both ORPS 1 and 2 were higher compared with WHO standard limit. In conclusion, Ochani River which is an important river used for irrigation and domestic activities by the populace in that community, is highly polluted with heavy metals and carcinogenic PAHs. We therefore recommend that Ochani River is unsafe for drinking, domestic and agricultural activities of the community where it is sited.
Antibacterial Screening of Leaves Extracts of Annona muricata (Annonaceae) and Jatropha tanjorensis (Euphorbiaceae) against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Ewa-Udu N. E. , Nwanebu F. C. , Stanley H. O. , Okereke I. W.
Published: November 2022

The crude extracts of Annona muricata and Jatropha tanjorensis leaves were investigated with the aim of determining the antibacterial activity, qualitative and quantitative properties, the best solvent used for extraction, the most active ingredients and the organism that is most susceptible to them. Ethanol, petroleum ether and water (warm) were used as solvents. Agar well diffusion method was used for the susceptibility testing of extracts against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with ciprofloxacine as positive control and sterile water as negative control. Ethanol and petroleum ether extracts of the plant, either alone or in combination, showed activities against test organisms. P. aeruginosa was more susceptible to ethanolic extract of A. muricata extract with 11.33±0.33 mm zone of inhibition while E. coli was the least susceptible with 9.83 mm.  E. coli was more susceptible to ethanolic extract of J. tanjorensis with 10.0±0.00 mm zone of inhibition while P. aeruginosa was the least susceptible with 9.0±0.0 mm diameter. Using petroleum ether, E. coli was the most susceptible to A. muricata extract with 7.33±0.33 while S. aureus was the least susceptible with 7.00±0.58 mm diameter. For J. tanjorensis petroleum ether extract, E. coli was the least susceptible with 7.33.0±0.33 mm zone of inhibition while S. aureus was the most susceptible with 8.0±0.0.58 mm diameter. The combination of petroleum ether extracts of both plants gave zones of inhibition of 7.67±0.67 mm and 8.33±0.67 mm for E. coli and S. aureus respectively. The combination of ethanolic extracts of both plants gave zones of inhibition of 14.33±0.67 mm, 12.60±0.6 mm and 7.67±0.33 mm E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa respectively, which suggest a synergistic effect. The minimal inhibitory concentration of the extracts against test organisms ranged between 25 mg/mL and 100 mg/mL while the minimal bactericidal concentration ranged between 50 mg/mL and 100 mg/mL. This study reveals that the ethanol and petroleum ether extracts of A. muricata and J. tanjorensis have antibacterial effect on E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa.
An update on recently approved long-acting injectable second-generation antipsychotics: Knowns and unknowns regarding their use
Authors: VandenBerg Amy M.
Published: November 2022

There are now 9 available FDA-approved second-generation long-acting injectable antipsychotics including aripiprazole (3), olanzapine (1), paliperidone (3), and risperidone (2). These high-cost medications are commonly used with the goal of improving adherence and patient outcomes. With almost 2 decades of use, key aspects have been well studied, including population pharmacokinetics, CYP interactions and various clinical and economic outcomes. However, there are still unknowns with these medications. Issues including adherence, transition from oral antipsychotics, renal dosing, pharmacogenomics, and managing missed doses will be addressed in the context of 4 patient cases.
Stopping the “Medicaid Churn”—Addressing Medicaid Coverage After the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Ends
Authors: Glied Sherry , Swartz Katherine
Published: November 2022

This JAMA Forum discusses Medicaid continuous enrollment and coverage under the American Rescue Plan Act and the Inflation Reduction Act and ways that the government can continue to decrease Medicaid churn (individuals cycling in and out of the program) after the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Ends.
Fracture Risk Among Older Cancer Survivors Compared With Older Adults Without a History of Cancer
Authors: Rees-Punia Erika , Newton Christina C. , Parsons Helen M. , Leach Corinne R. , Diver W. Ryan , Grant Amber C. , Masters Matthew , Patel Alpa V. , Teras Lauren R.
Published: November 2022

Importance

The number of cancer survivors living in the US is projected to be 26.1 million by 2040. Cancer survivors may be at increased risk of bone fractures, but research is limited in several important ways.

Objective

To investigate the associations of cancer diagnoses, including time since diagnosis and stage at diagnosis, with risks of pelvic, radial, and vertebral fractures (separately and combined) among older cancer survivors and compared with fracture risk among older adults without a history of cancer. Secondarily, to examine differences in risk of fracture stratified by modifiable behaviors, treatment, and cancer type.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This longitudinal cohort study used data from 92 431 older adults in the US Cancer Prevention Study II Nutrition Cohort linked with 1999 to 2017 Medicare claims. Data were analyzed from July 15, 2021, to May 3, 2022.

Exposures

Cancer history, time since cancer diagnosis, and stage at cancer diagnosis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for the risk of pelvic, radial, vertebral, and total frailty-related fractures were estimated using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression. Stratification was used for secondary aims.

Results

Among 92 431 participants (mean [SD] age, was 69.4 [6.0] years, 51 820 [56%] women, and 90 458 [97.9%] White], 12 943 participants experienced a frailty-related bone fracture. Compared with participants without a history of cancer, cancer survivors who were diagnosed 1 to less than 5 years earlier with advanced stage cancer had higher risk of fracture (HR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.75-2.58). The higher fracture risk in cancer survivors with recent advanced stage diagnosis (vs no cancer) was driven largely by vertebral (HR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.93-3.13) and pelvic (HR, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.84-3.29) fracture sites. Compared with cancer survivors who did not receive chemotherapy, survivors who received chemotherapy were more likely to have a fracture; this association was stronger within 5 years of diagnosis (HR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.09-1.57) than 5 or more years after diagnosis (HR, 1.22; 95% CI, 0.99-1.51). Although the HR for risk of fracture was lower among physically active cancer survivors 5 or more years after diagnosis (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.54-1.07), this result was not statistically significant, whereas current smoking was significantly associated with higher risk of fracture (HR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.55-3.33).

Conclusions and Relevance

Findings from this cohort study suggest that older adults with a history of cancer may benefit from clinical guidance on prevention of frailty-related fractures. If study findings are replicated, fracture prevention programs for survivors might include referrals for physical activity with cancer exercise professionals and smoking cessation programs.
A Photo‐Responsive Hollow Manganese/Carbon Hybrid Nanosphere for Wound Disinfection and Healing
Authors: Lu Mingzhu , Li Shanshan , Xiong Xiaolu , Huang Zhijun , Xu Bolong , Liu Yunhang , Wu Qingyuan , Wu Nier , Liu Huiyu , Zhou Dongsheng
Published: November 2022

The emergence of multi‐drug resistant (MDR) bacteria poses a serious threat to human health. It has become imperative to develop efficient antimicrobial strategies. Here, a manganese‐doped dopamine‐derived hollow carbon sphere (MnOx/HNCS) is developed as a nanozyme and photothermal agent for the synergistic treatment of MDR bacterial infections. MnOx/HNCS possesses oxidase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase like activities and implements self‐cascading enzymatic catalysis to produce superoxide anion (O2•−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and hydroxyl radicals (•OH). Importantly, near‐infrared light facilitates the electron transport of MnOx/HNCS, allowing it to exhibit stable photothermal effects and photo‐enhanced enzymatic activity. Thereby MnOx/HNCS displays a broad‐spectrum synergistic antibacterial efficiency in vitro against six MDR pathogens based on the above photo‐regulated properties. In vivo experiments further demonstrate the excellent antibacterial efficiency of MnOx/HNCS in the MDR bacteria‐infected wound model. Notably, MnOx/HNCS not only has excellent disinfection capacity, but also can accelerate wound healing by stimulating the deposition of the extracellular matrix and reepithelialization. This study proposes a promising antibiotics‐alternative broad‐spectrum antibacterial strategy and paves a new avenue for the establishment of multifunctional photo‐responsive synergistic therapeutic platform.
Complementary and Synergistic Design of Bi‐Layered Double Hydroxides Modified Magnesium Alloy toward Multifunctional Orthopedic Implants
Authors: Zhang Dongdong , Li Mei , Xu Ru , Xie Juning , Zhang Yu , Qian Shi , Qiao Yuqin , Peng Feng , Liu Xuanyong
Published: November 2022

Magnesium (Mg)‐based alloys have been regarded as promising implants for future clinic orthopedics, however, how to endow them with good anti‐corrosion and biofunctions still remains a great challenge, especially for complicated bone diseases. Herein, three transition metals (M = Mn, Fe, and Co)‐containing layered double hydroxides (LDH) (LDH‐Mn, LDH‐Fe, and LDH‐Co) with similar M content are prepared on Mg alloy via a novel two‐step method, then systematic characterizations and comparisons are conducted in detail. Results showed that LDH‐Mn exhibited the best corrosion resistance, LDH‐Mn and LDH‐Co possessed excellent photothermal and enzymatic activities, LDH‐Fe revealed better cytocompatibility and antibacterial properties, while LDH‐Co demonstrated high cytotoxicity. Based on these results, an optimized bilayer LDH coating enriched with Fe and Mn (LDH‐MnFe) from top to bottom have been designed for further in vitro and in vivo analysis. The top Fe‐riched layer provided biocompatibility and antibacterial properties, while the bottom Mn‐riced layer provided excellent anti‐corrosion, photothermal and enzymatic effects. In addition, the released Mg, Fe, and Mn ions have a positive influence on angiogenesis and osteogenesis. Thus, the LDH‐MnFe showed complementary and synergistic effects on anti‐corrosion and multibiofunctions (antibacteria, antitumor, and osteogenesis). The present work offers a novel multifunctional Mg‐based implant for treating bone diseases.
Enhancement of Gene Editing and Base Editing with Therapeutic Ribonucleoproteins through In Vivo Delivery Based on Absorptive Silica Nanoconstruct
Authors: Kim Seongchan , Jeong You Kyeong , Cho Chang Sik , Lee SeokHoon , Sohn Chang Ho , Kim Jeong Hun , Jeong Youngdo , Jo Dong Hyun , Bae Sangsu , Lee Hyojin
Published: November 2022

Key to the widespread and secure application of genome editing tools is the safe and effective delivery of multiple components of ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) into single cells, which remains a biological barrier to their clinical application. To overcome this issue, a robust RNP delivery platform based on a biocompatible sponge‐like silica nanoconstruct (SN) for storing and directly delivering therapeutic RNPs, including Cas9 nuclease RNP (Cas9‐RNP) and base editor RNP (BE‐RNP) is designed. Compared with commercialized material such as lipid‐based methods, up to 50‐fold gene deletion and 10‐fold base substitution efficiency is obtained with a low off‐target efficiency by targeting various cells and genes. In particular, gene correction is successfully induced by SN‐based delivery through intravenous injection in an in vivo solid‐tumor model and through subretinal injection in mouse eye. Moreover, because of its low toxicity and high biodegradability, SN has negligible effect on cellular function of organs. As the engineered SN can overcome practical challenges associated with therapeutic RNP application, it is strongly expected this platform to be a modular RNPs delivery system, facilitating in vivo gene deletion and editing.
The effect of race and co‐morbidities on Alzheimer's disease based on Medicare data
Authors: Steenland Kyle , Tan Youran , Wingo Thomas , Shi Liuhua , Xiao Siyao , Wharton Whitney
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) incidence is thought to be higher among Black than White individuals.

Methods

We studied the US Medicare population from 2000 to 2018. Cox regression was used to determine the roles of race and co‐morbidities for AD incidence.

Results

We studied 11,880,906 Medicare beneficiaries, with 774,548 AD cases. Hazard ratios (HRs) by increasing numbers of co‐morbidities (1–7) were 1.51, 2.00, 2.55, 3.16, 2.89, 4.77, and 5.65. Among those with no co‐morbidities, Black individuals had a lower rate than those who are White (HR = 0.69), while among those with one more co‐morbidities, Black individuals had a higher rate (HR = 1.19). The presence of hypertension increased AD rates by 14% for White individuals, but 69% for those who are Black.

Discussion

More co‐morbidities was strongly associated with higher AD rates. The higher rates for Black versus White individuals was apparent only for those with co‐morbidities and appears driven both by more co‐morbidities, and the greater effect of hypertension.

Highlights

Black individuals have been shown to have higher Alzheimer's disease (AD) rates than those who are White.

Some co‐morbidities are known to increase AD risk.

Among those In Medicare data with no co‐morbidities, Black individuals have less risk than those who are White.

Among those with co‐morbidities, Black individuals have higher rates than those who are White.

Hypertension results in a much stronger increase in AD risk for Black versus White individuals.
Electrostatic Filtering of Polypeptides Through Membrane Protein Pores
Authors: Vikraman Devika , Krishnan R. Smrithi , Satheesan Remya , Das Anjali Devi , Mahendran Kozhinjampara R.
Published: November 2022

Naturally‐occurring membrane proteins have been engineered as nanopore sensors for the single‐molecule detection of various biochemical molecules. Here, we present a natural bacterial porin, CymA containing a dynamic component and densely packed charged residues in the pore, shaping a unique structural conformation and charge feature. Using single‐channel recordings, we investigated the translocation of charged polypeptides through native CymA and truncated CymA lacking the dynamic element. Cationic polypeptides bind to the pore with high affinity, specifically at low salt conditions indicating an electrostatic charge and voltage‐dependent translocation. Anionic peptides did not bind to the pore, confirming the selective binding of polypeptides with the pore due to their specific charge distribution. Further, the distinct peptide translocation kinetics between native and truncated indicated the role of the dynamic segment in molecular transport. We suggest that these natural membrane pores that permit the selective translocation of cationic polypeptides are advantageous for nanopore proteomics applications.
High‐throughput immunoaffinity enrichment and N‐glycan analysis of human plasma haptoglobin
Authors: Šimunović Jelena , Gašperšič Jernej , Černigoj Urh , Vidič Jana , Štrancar Aleš , Novokmet Mislav , Razdorov Genadij , Pezer Marija , Lauc Gordan , Trbojević‐Akmačić Irena
Published: November 2022

Haptoglobin (Hp) is a positive acute phase protein, synthesized in the liver, with four N‐glycosylation sites carrying mainly complex type N‐glycans. Its glycosylation is altered in different types of diseases but still has not been extensively studied mainly due to analytical challenges, especially the lack of a fast, efficient, and robust high‐throughput Hp isolation procedure. Here, we describe the development of a high‐throughput method for Hp enrichment from human plasma, based on monolithic chromatographic support in immunoaffinity mode and downstream Hp N‐glycome analysis by hydrophilic interaction ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescent detection (HILIC–UHPLC–FLR). Chromatographic monolithic supports in a 96‐well format enable fast, efficient, and robust Hp enrichment directly from diluted plasma samples. The N‐glycome analysis demonstrated that a degree of Hp deglycosylation differs depending on the conditions used for N‐glycan release and on the specific glycosylation site, with Asn 241 being the most resistant to deglycosylation under tested conditions. HILIC–UHPLC–FLR analysis enables robust quantification of 28 individual chromatographic peaks, in which N‐glycan compositions were determined by UHPLC coupled to electrospray ionization quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry. The developed analytical approach enables fast evaluation of total Hp N‐glycosylation and is applicable in large‐scale studies.
The case for flexibility in online science courses: Strategies and caveats
Authors: Nunes Krystal , Laliberté Nicole , Rawle Fiona
Published: November 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic created an unpredictable and stressful situation for both students and instructors. With current instruction largely occurring in an online environment, we propose that increased flexibility in course structure will best support student learning. Flexible course structure offers a trauma‐aware approach to teaching, is in line with the Universal Design for Learning, and increases student motivation and meaningful learning. It can also provide more authentic experiences akin to science‐based careers. We provide several specific suggestions for incorporating flexibility in one's class, as well as outline considerations and caveats. Our hope is that flexibility necessitated by the COVID‐19 pandemic will continue to inspire change in future course design and educational paradigms.
Mental health literacy among primary healthcare workers in South Africa and Zambia
Authors: Korhonen Joonas , Axelin Anna , Stein Dan J. , Seedat Soraya , Mwape Lonia , Jansen Ronelle , Groen Gunter , Grobler Gerhard , Jörns‐Presentati Astrid , Katajisto Jouko , Lahti Mari ,   MEGA Consortium/Research Team
Published: November 2022

Background

In developing countries, mental health literacy (MHL) still needs to be improved due to the high prevalence of mental disorders. It is widely recognized that MHL can improve health outcomes for both individuals and populations. Healthcare professionals’ development in MHL is crucial to the prevention of mental disorders. The aim of this study was to assess MHL of primary healthcare (PHC) workers in South Africa (SA) and Zambia and determinants thereof. Limited evidence is available on the levels of MHL among PHC workers in the sub‐Saharan Africa region, which faces a large burden of mental disorders.

Methods

The study population for this cross‐sectional survey comprised PHC workers (n = 250) in five provinces of SA and Zambia. MHL was measured with the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS). We conducted a multivariate analysis to explore determinants of MHL.

Results

Results showed moderate MHL among PHC professionals, but with a wide range from low to high MHL. Knowledge‐related items had a greater dispersion than other attributes of MHL. PHC workers with more education showed a greater ability to recognize mental health‐related disorders. Those who had experience in the use of mental health‐related assessment scales or screening tools reported a higher total MHL. The results confirmed strong internal consistency for the MHLS.

Conclusion

The results highlighted varying mental health perceptions and knowledge in PHC. Implementation of specifically developed formal training programs and interventions to improve MHL in PHC workers to strengthen their competence may help bridge the treatment gap.
Chemical Profile of the Pits Oil from the Tunisian ‘Alig’ Cultivar ofPhoenix dactyliferaL.:In VivoWound Healing Potential Evaluation of a Cream Formulated from the Extracted Oil and Insights from Molecular Docking and SAR Analysis
Authors: Chhoud Rihab , Said Bagga Mohamed , Ali Lassoued Mohamed , Jlizi Salma , Nabili Abdelkader , Sfar Souad , Ben Jannet Hichem , Majdoub Hatem
Published: November 2022

Since ancient times the oil from date palm pits (Phoenix dactyliferaL.) has been used to heal wounds. In order to prove this traditional usage of the pits, this oil was extracted from the pits of the Tunisian cultivar ‘Alig’ and its physico‐chemical properties and the chemical composition were evaluated. The fatty acid profile, evidenced by GC, allowed to classify this oil as an oleic‐myristic acid oil with a clear abundance of oleic acid (53.66 %).1H and13C‐NMR as well as FT‐IR analyses confirmed the presence of fatty acids in triglyceride forms. Furthermore,in vivowound healing activity of a cream formulated from the extracted oil was performed, for the first time, using a rat model and was compared to placebo cream and a commercial formulation, MEBO®. This study showed that the test cream promoted the healing of pressure ulcers better than the placebo cream and the MEBO® ointment. The results showed that this vegetable oil is able to improve the healing of infected wounds in rats, thus supporting its traditional use. The contribution of the main oleic, linoleic and myristic acids that can be derived from enzymatic hydrolysis to the healing activity of the whole pits oil was predicted byin silicostudy and the calculated pharmacokinetics parameters.
Characterization of the Gateway Decarboxylase for Psilocybin Biosynthesis
Authors: Schäfer Tim , Kramer Kristina , Werten Sebastiaan , Rupp Bernhard , Hoffmeister Dirk
Published: November 2022

The l‐tryptophan decarboxylase PsiD catalyzes the initial step of the metabolic cascade to psilocybin, the major indoleethylamine natural product of the “magic” mushrooms and a candidate drug against major depressive disorder. Unlike numerous pyridoxal phosphate (PLP)‐dependent decarboxylases for natural product biosyntheses, PsiD is PLP‐independent and resembles type II phosphatidylserine decarboxylases. Here, we report on the in vitro biochemical characterization of Psilocybe cubensis PsiD along with in silico modeling of the PsiD structure. A non‐canonical serine protease triad for autocatalytic cleavage of the pro‐protein was predicted and experimentally verified by site‐directed mutagenesis.
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Sterically Hindered Biaryls by Suzuki Coupling and Vanadium Chloroperoxidase Catalyzed Halogenations
Authors: Huang Wansheng , Huang Shengtang , Sun Zhoutong , Zhang Wuyuan , Zeng Zhigang , Yuan Bo
Published: November 2022

Halogenated biaryls are vital structural skeletons in bioactive products. In this study, an effective chemoenzymatic halogenation by vanadium‐dependent chloroperoxidase fromCurvularia inaeqaelis(CiVCPO) enabled the transformation of freely rotating biaryl bonds to sterically hindered axis. The yields were up to 84 % for the tribrominated biaryl products and up to 65 % when isolated. Furthermore, a one‐pot, two‐step chemoenzymatic strategy by incorporating transition metal catalyzed Suzuki coupling and the chemoenzymatic halogenation in aqueous phase were described. This strategy demonstrates a simplified one‐pot reaction sequence with organometallic and biocatalytic procedures under economical and environmentally beneficial conditions that may inspire further research on synthesis of sterically hindered biaryls.
Ru−RuO2 Nanoparticles Decorated on Various Substrates via Reduction‐Hydrolysis Strategy for Boosting Overall Water‐Splitting Performance
Authors: Hu Yanping , Zhou Jing , Sun Xuzhuo , Chen Jing , Li Bo , Wang Yujia , Wang Ning
Published: November 2022

Engineering bifunctional nanocomposites with pronounced interfacial structure represents an effective design strategy for water‐splitting catalysts. Herein, a facile reduction‐hydrolysis method is described for the fabrication of Ru−RuO2 hybrid nanocomposites on various substrates [Ni foam (NF), carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene oxide (GO)] as overall water‐splitting catalysts. Polydopamine (PDA) is the key element for simultaneously fabricating the Ru−RuO2 hybrids as a moderate reductant by controlling the reduction rate. In the synthesis process, a gradual reduction of Ru3+ to Ru0 in the presence of PDA occurred during the hydrolytic process of Ru3+ to form RuO2 ⋅ n(H2O). After calcination, Ru−RuO2 hybrids with tight interfacial contacts and high electrical conductivity exhibited excellent performance for both HER and OER. Especially, Ru−RuO2 hybrids on the NF (Ru−RuO2/NC/NF) achieved outstanding catalytic activity toward HER and OER with overpotential of 24 mV and 223 mV at a current density 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline solution, respectively. This work provides a new method for facile synthesis and engineering of Ru−RuO2 nanoparticles on various substrates for boosting the HER/OER performance.
A Computational Study of the MoO2(acac)2 Catalyzed Epoxidation of Ethylene with Hydrogen Peroxide and t‐Butyl Hydroperoxide
Authors: Dhimba George , Muller Alfred , Lammertsma Koop
Published: November 2022

The cis‐MoO2(acac)2 catalyzed epoxidation of ethylene by H2O2 or tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) was studied by density functional theory at ωB97x–D using the 6‐31G(d,p) and 6‐311G(2d,p) basis sets and the PCM model to include the effect of acetonitril solvation. Three initial MoO2(acac)2⋅H2O2 adducts were identified. An associative pathway with a barrier of 26.7 kcal/mol is favored for H2O2 which inserts first into an acac ligand coordination site of the catalyst. TBHP favors instead a step‐wise mechanism in which a catalyst's Mo=O bond inserts into the oxidant upon which ethylene gets epoxidized by the hepta‐coordinate MoO(OH)(acac)2 (TBHP‐κ2O,O’) intermediate with an activation energy of 33.8 kcal/mol. The reaction barriers for H2O2 and TBHP are both within the typical temperature range (70 °C) used for Mo catalyzed epoxidations. The results indicate that the mechanism depends largely on the nature of the oxidant and the dioxo molybdenum catalysts used.
Heterointerface Engineering of ZnO/CdS Heterostructures through ZnS Layers for Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Guo Xu , Liu Xing , Yan Junqing , Liu Shengzhong Frank
Published: November 2022

Solar‐driven water splitting to produce clean and renewable hydrogen offers a green strategy to address the energy crisis and environmental pollution. Heterostructure catalysts are receiving increasing attention for photocatalytic hydrogen generation. ZnO/ZnS/CdS and ZnO/CdS heterostructures have been successfully designed and prepared according to two different strategies. By introducing a heterointerface layer of ZnS between ZnO and CdS, a Z scheme charge‐transfer channel was promoted and achieved superior photocatalytic performance. A highest hydrogen generation rate of 156.7 μmol g−1 h−1 was achieved by precise control of the thickness of the heterointerface layer and of the CdS shell. These findings demonstrated that heterostructures are promising catalysts for solar‐driven water splitting, and that heterointerface engineering is an effective way to improve the photocatalytic properties of heterostructures.
Boroleucine‐Derived Covalent Inhibitors of the ZIKV Protease
Authors: Braun Niklas J. , Huber Simon , Schmacke Luna C. , Heine Andreas , Steinmetzer Torsten
Published: November 2022

The Zika virus (ZIKV) remains a potential threat to the public health due to the lack of both an approved vaccination or a specific treatment. In this work, a series of peptidic inhibitors of the ZIKV protease with boroleucine as P1 residue was synthesized. The highest affinities with Ki values down to 8 nM were observed for compounds with basic residues in both P2 and P3 position and at the N‐terminus. The low potency of reference compounds containing leucine, leucine‐amide or isopentylamide as P1 residue suggested a covalent binding mode of the boroleucine‐derived inhibitors. This was finally proven by crystal structure determination of the most potent inhibitor from this series in complex with the ZIKV protease.
Assessing the Effect of Dopants on the C−H Activation Activity of γ‐Al2O3 using First‐Principles Calculations
Authors: Singh Priti , Gogoi Amrita , Aien Qurat Ul , Dixit Mudit
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the high availability of methane in the shale gas reserves has raised significant interest in its conversion to high‐value chemicals but this process is still not commercially viable. Metal oxides, due to their surface heterogeneity and the presence of Lewis acidic and basic site pairs are known to facilitate the activation of C−H bonds of methane. In this work, we investigate the C−H bond activation of methane on pristine and doped γ‐Al2O3 clusters using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Our results demonstrate that the polar pathway is energetically preferred over the radical pathway on these systems. We found that the metal dopants (boron and gallium) not only alter the catalytic activity of dopant sites but this effect is more pronounced on some of the adjacent sites (non‐local). Among the selected dopants, gallium greatly improves the catalytic activity on most of the site pairs (including most active and least active) of pristine γ‐Al2O3. Additionally, we identified a correlation between H2 binding energies and the C−H activation free energies on Ga‐doped γ‐Al2O3.
Air‐Stable Solid‐State Photoluminescence Standards for Quantitative Measurements Based on 4′‐Phenyl‐2,2′ : 6′,2′′‐Terpyridine Complexes with Trivalent Lanthanides
Authors: Sedykh Alexander E. , Becker Mariia , Seuffert Marcel T. , Heuler Dominik , Maxeiner Moritz , Kurth Dirk G. , Housecroft Catherine E. , Constable Edwin C. , Müller‐Buschbaum Klaus
Published: November 2022

Correct photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) determination in the solid state is vital for numerous application fields, such as photovoltaics, solid lighting or the development of phosphors. In order to increase the limited number of suitable standards for such determinations, two new Ln3+‐based complexes with 4′‐phenyl‐2,2′ : 6′,2“‐terpyridine γ‐[Ln4(OAc)12(ptpy)2] (1‐Eu with europium and 1‐Tb with terbium) are presented. The corresponding complexes show solid‐state QYs of 58(4) % and 46(3) %, respectively, exhibiting broadband absorption in the UV range from 380–200 nm. As Ln3+ ions in general exhibit narrow f‐f transitions, spectral regions with a broadness of 20–35 nm can be checked. Both complexes have suitable thermal stability, up to 270 °C, and are stable with respect to air and humidity, for 1‐Eu up to 75 % and for 1‐Tb up to 53 % relative humidity. These complexes are altogether suitable as standards to increase the reliability of PLQY determination and proposed to be used for a relative PLQY determination in the solid state.
Distinctive, fine‐scale distribution of Eastern Caribbean sperm whale vocal clans reflects island fidelity rather than environmental variables
Authors: Vachon Felicia , Eguiguren Ana , Rendell Luke , Gero Shane , Whitehead Hal
Published: November 2022

Environmental variables are often the primary drivers of species' distributions as they define their niche. However, individuals, or groups of individuals, may sometimes adopt a limited range within this larger suitable habitat as a result of social and cultural processes. This is the case for Eastern Caribbean sperm whales. While environmental variables are reasonably successful in describing the general distribution of sperm whales in the region, individuals from different cultural groups have distinct distributions around the Lesser Antilles islands. Using data collected over 2 years of dedicated surveys in the Eastern Caribbean, we conducted habitat modeling and habitat suitability analyses to investigate the mechanisms responsible for such fine‐scale distribution patterns. Vocal clan‐specific models were dramatically more successful at predicting distribution than general species models, showing how a failure to incorporate social factors can impede accurate predictions. Habitat variation between islands did not explain vocal clan distributions, suggesting that cultural group segregation in the Eastern Caribbean sperm whale is driven by traditions of site/island fidelity (most likely maintained through conformism and homophily) rather than habitat type specialization. Our results provide evidence for the key role of cultural knowledge in shaping habitat use of sperm whales within suitable environmental conditions and highlight the importance of cultural factors in shaping sperm whale ecology. We recommend that social and cultural information be incorporated into conservation and management as culture can segregate populations on fine spatial scales in the absence of environmental variability.
Patterns and controls of foliar nutrient stoichiometry and flexibility across United States forests
Authors: Dynarski Katherine A. , Soper Fiona M. , Reed Sasha C. , Wieder William R. , Cleveland Cory C.
Published: November 2022

Plant element stoichiometry and stoichiometric flexibility strongly regulate ecosystem responses to global change. Here, we tested three potential mechanistic drivers (climate, soil nutrients, and plant taxonomy) of both using paired foliar and soil nutrient data from terrestrial forested National Ecological Observatory Network sites across the USA. We found that broad patterns of foliar nitrogen (N) and foliar phosphorus (P) are explained by different mechanisms. Plant taxonomy was an important control over all foliar nutrient stoichiometries and concentrations, especially foliar N, which was dominantly related to taxonomy and did not vary across climate or soil gradients. Despite a lack of site‐level correlations between N and environment variables, foliar N exhibited intraspecific flexibility, with numerous species‐specific correlations between foliar N and various environmental factors, demonstrating the variable spatial and temporal scales on which foliar chemistry and stoichiometric flexibility can manifest. In addition to plant taxonomy, foliar P and N:P ratios were also linked to soil nutrient status (extractable P) and climate, especially actual evapotranspiration rates. Our findings highlight the myriad factors that influence foliar chemistry and show that broad patterns cannot be explained by a single consistent mechanism. Furthermore, differing controls over foliar N versus P suggests that each may be sensitive to global change drivers on distinct spatial and temporal scales, potentially resulting in altered ecosystem N:P ratios that have implications for processes ranging from productivity to carbon sequestration.
Effects of microwave, ultrasound, and various treatments on the reduction of antinutritional factors in elephant foot yam: A review
Authors: Srivastava Shivangi , Pandey Vinay K. , Singh Poornima , Bhagya Raj Gurajala Venkata Siva , Dash Kshirod K. , Singh Rahul
Published: November 2022

Elephant foot yam (EFY) includes a high degree of nutritious fiber, carbohydrates, glucose, protein, and sugars. It also has plenty of calcium, sodium, potassium, and vitamin C, and is a promising source of starch. Due to the presence of oxalate and acridity, EFY has been extensively underused. Researchers have employed a variety of ways to decrease calcium oxalate, including boiling and NaCl treatment. A novel technique like ultrasound is a promising technique for the reduction of antinutritional factors effectively by keeping the natural phytoconstituents in it. The reduction of antinutritional factors by ultrasonication resulted from the high temperatures and pressures generated amid the collapse phase of cavitation bubbles. Microwave heating depends on the dielectric properties of the food. The dielectric constant is the ability to absorb the energy, and dielectric loss is the ability to reflect where it is dissipated as heat. Because of its heat‐labile nature and the formation of insoluble complexes, microwave treatment reduces the antinutrient component. This review focused on several studies on yam oxalate concentrations that were conducted using various treatments. This would help researchers and the food industry find more effective strategies to reduce the antinutritional factor using frequency‐controlled power ultrasound.
Assessment of the iodine status of children of pre‐school age (6 months–5 years) in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Orisa Catherine Achese , Ujong Anim Ekpo , Ariye Elijah Oyindeinyefe
Published: November 2022

The study was to determine the iodine status of preschool children in Rivers State, Nigeria. A cross‐sectional study design and an experimental design were employed in the study. The population comprised all preschool children in Rivers State. A multistage sampling procedure was used to draw a sample size of 330 preschool children. Early morning casual urine samples were collected from the pupils for the analysis of urinary iodine concentration (UIC) using the sensitive colorimetric method of the Sandell–Kelthoff reaction. The result revealed that none of the children were severely deficient, 2.41% were moderately deficient, and 36.14% were mildly deficient; 53.01% were adequate, while 4.82% were more than adequate. The study population was found to have adequate iodine based on the median UIC of 143.3 µg/L, and within the optimal (100–199 µg/L) range of iodine, strongly suggesting that iodine deficiency seems not to be a public health problem among the preschool children.