bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biofortification of baby leafy vegetables using nutrient solution containing selenium
Authors: Francini Alessandra , Quattrini Emanuele , Giuffrida Francesco , Ferrante Antonio
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Biofortification of vegetables is an important innovation technique in the horticultural sector. Vegetables can be a vector of different minor elements that have beneficial effects on human health. Selenium (Se) is an important element for human nutrition and plays a significant role in defence mechanisms. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of Se in the nutrient solutions on the crop biofortification ability, yield, and quality parameters of four baby leafy vegetables destined to the minimally processed industry. Experiments were performed on lamb's lettuce, lettuce, wild rocket, and spinach. These crops were cultivated in the floating systems with nutrient solution enriched with 0, 2.6, 3.9, and 5.2 μmol L−1 Se provided as sodium selenate.

RESULTS

At harvest, Se concentrations, yield, nitrate concentration, sugars, and some mineral elements were measured. Data collected and analyses showed that yield, nitrate, sucrose, and reducing sugars were not affected by Se treatments, even if varied among species. Se concentrations linearly increased in leaves of different species by increasing the Se concentration in the nutrient solution. Rocket was the species with the highest accumulation ability and reached a concentration of 11 μg g−1 fresh weight Se in plants grown with 5.2 μmol L−1 Se.

CONCLUSION

A floating system with Se‐enriched nutrient solution is an optimal controlled growing biofortification system for leafy vegetables. The accumulation ability decreased in different species in the order wild rocket, spinach, lettuce, and lamb's lettuce, highlighting a crop‐dependent behaviour and their attitude to biofortification. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Irreversible biosynthesis of D‐allulose from D‐glucose in Escherichia coli through fine‐tuning of carbon flux and cofactor regeneration engineering
Authors: Guo Yan , Zhu Zhengwen , Lv Jing , Li Yumei , Chen Jing , Cheng Xiyao , Li Ning , Liu Jidong
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

As a rare hexose with low calories and various physiological functions, d‐allulose has drawn increasing attention. The current industrial production of d‐allulose from d‐fructose or d‐glucose is achieved via epimerization based on the Izumoring strategy; however, the inherent reaction equilibrium during reversible reaction limits its high conversion yield. Although the conversion of d‐fructose to d‐allulose could be enhanced via phosphorylation‐dephosphorylation mediated by metabolic engineering, biomass reduction and byproduct accumulation remain a largely unresolved issue.

RESULTS

After modifying the glycolytic pathway of Escherichia coli and optimizing the whole‐cell reaction condition, the engineered strain produced 7.57 ± 0.61 g L−1 d‐allulose from 30 g L−1 d‐glucose after 24 h of catalysis. By developing an ATP regeneration system for enhanced substrate phosphorylation, the cell growth inhibition was alleviated and d‐allulose production increased by 55.3% to 11.76 ± 0.58 g L−1 (0.53 g g−1). Fine‐tuning of carbon flux caused a 48% reduction in d‐fructose accumulation to 1.47 ± 0.15 g L−1. After implementing fed‐batch co‐substrate strategy, the d‐allulose titer reached 15.80 ± 0.31 g L−1 (0.62 g g−1) with a d‐glucose conversion rate of 84.8%.

CONCLUSION

The present study reports a novel strategy for high‐yield d‐allulose production from low‐cost substrate. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Gelatin production from turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) skin as a new source: from waste to a sustainable food gelling agent
Authors: Ozcan Yilmaz , Kurt Abdullah , Ozmen Duygu , Toker Omer Said
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Turkey skin, a byproduct of poultry processing, contains a significant amount of collagen that might be used to make non‐mammal gelatin. However, gelatin production from turkey skin has not yet been investigated. The present study aimed to determine the optimum gelatin extraction conditions from turkey employing the central composite design and response surface methodologies. The independent factors such as temperature (50, 60, and 70 °C) and time (5, 7, and 9 h) were optimized for three response variables: yield, gel strength, and foam expansion (FE).

RESULTS

With R2 values of 0.8576 for yield, 0.8386 for gel strength, and 0.9283 for foam expansion, linear, quadratic, and respective models were used. The yield, gel strength, and FE actual values were found to be 15.36%, 396.61 g, and 40%, respectively. The optimum extraction conditions were found to be 62.90 °C for 6.84 h. The foam stability, L, and b values were significantly impacted by temperature and extraction time (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The gel strength value of the gelatin extracted under optimal conditions was higher than that of commercial bovine. The findings of the present study showed that turkey skin is a suitable raw material for the manufacturing of gelatin. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Giant cell tumor of bone with secondary aneurysmal bone cyst does not have a higher risk of local recurrence
Authors: Tsukamoto Shinji , Aiba Hisaki , Righi Alberto , Nitta Yuji , Traversari Matteo , Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Honoki Kanya , Tanaka Yasuhito , Donati Davide Maria , Errani Costantino
Published: April 2023

Background

Fluid–fluid levels (FFLs) is found in 10%–16% of giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB), and the presence of FFLs raises the suspicion of GCTB with secondary aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC), which can lead to increased intraoperative bleeding and, blurring the operative field, be associated with a risk of local recurrence. The first objective of this study is to determine whether secondary ABC is associated with a higher risk of local recurrence after curettage in patients with GCTB of the extremities. The second objective of this study is to investigate the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the presence of FFLs detected on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose secondary ABC associated with GCTB.

Methods

Two hundred and eighty patients with GCTB of the extremities who underwent curettage at the authors' institutions between 1980 and 2021 were included in this study.

Results

Secondary ABC was found in 36 of 280 patients (12.9%) and local recurrence occurred in 66 of 280 patients (23.6%). Multivariate analysis showed no significant correlation between secondary ABC and local recurrence (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.87 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00–3.53]; p = 0.051). Preoperative MRI revealed FFLs in 13 of 82 patients (15.9%). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of FFLs detected on preoperative MRI to diagnose secondary ABC were 36.8%, 90.5%, 53.8%, and 82.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that secondary ABC does not increase the risk of local recurrence after curettage in patients with GCTB of the extremities. Although rare, FFLs were present in patients with GCTB and half of those with FFLs detected on preoperative MRI had secondary ABC.
Modeling of micellar‐catalyzed bimolecular ionic reactions by a nonlinear Poisson−Boltzmann equation and an electrostatic free energy model
Authors: Karmakar Arnab , Jana Sumit Kumar
Published: April 2023

The hydrolysis reactions of crystal violet (CV) and p‐nitrophenyl acetate (PNPA) by sodium hydroxide in cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) micellar solution were studied in this work. Combined with the Boltzmann probability of ionic species in an electrostatic potential field, a model with a numerical scheme was developed based on the nonlinear Poisson−Boltzmann equation in the micelle‐cell consisting of the reactants and the surfactant. The numerical solution gives the ionic species distribution in the micelle phase and the radius of the micelle‐phase. The dielectric constant of the micelle‐phase varies in the range of 39.8−54.4. The second‐order reaction rate constants in the micelle‐phase were determined using the electrostatic and dipolar free energy models. For the basic hydrolysis of CV and PNPA, the overall second‐order rate constants are three to five times and 1.4 times greater than the corresponding values in water, respectively. The rate enhancement occurs due to the distribution of the reactive ionic species in the cell region and the enhancement of the Coulombic and dipolar interactions among the ionic and polar reactants.
980 nm laser endo‐perivenous treatment of lower limb reticular veins and telangiectasias. Technical notes
Authors: Palombi Luca , Morelli Monica
Published: April 2023

Introduction

For several years, the venous aesthetic problem has been tackled mainly with sclerotherapy techniques. In recent years, laser techniques have been added, both surface (transdermal) and endo‐perivenous, performed with small optical fibers (100–200 μm) and low intensities in terms of LEED and Watt. The endo‐perivenous technique has extended the possibilities of laser treatment also to the nourishing veins, to telangiectasias resistant to therapies with sclerosing agents and/or transdermal lasers and to vessels with larger diameters (1–3 mm) and depths >1.3 mm.

Materials and Methods

We report a series of 20 patients affected by reticular veins and telangiectasias of the lower limbs (CEAP C1–2) treated with endo‐perivenous technique. The most used setting was: 3 W (range: 2–4 W) with a mean fluence delivered of 11.25 J/cm (range: 6–18) in pulse mode with 980 nm laser, 200 μm fiber after a preventive skin cooling. Scheduled follow‐up occurred 20 and 60 days after treatment.

Results

Total technical success, understood as complete obliteration of all treated vessels, was achieved in 70% of cases (14/20) after just one treatment. The most observed early local complications were erythema, vesicles, and small cutaneous eschars that regressed in 3 weeks. At 60‐day follow‐up, just one complication was observed: a small area of hyperpigmentation (5%). In this case, chemical peel procedures was performed with good clinical results.

Conclusions

Endoperivenous laser treatment represents an effective and valid tool for the treatment of teleangectasias and reticular varicose veins.
Proteomics mining of cancer hallmarks on a single‐cell resolution
Authors: Li Maomao , Zuo Jing , Yang Kailin , Wang Ping , Zhou Shengtao
Published: April 2023

Dysregulated proteome is an essential contributor in carcinogenesis. Protein fluctuations fuel the progression of malignant transformation, such as uncontrolled proliferation, metastasis, and chemo/radiotherapy resistance, which severely impair therapeutic effectiveness and cause disease recurrence and eventually mortality among cancer patients. Cellular heterogeneity is widely observed in cancer and numerous cell subtypes have been characterized that greatly influence cancer progression. Population‐averaged research may not fully reveal the heterogeneity, leading to inaccurate conclusions. Thus, deep mining of the multiplex proteome at the single‐cell resolution will provide new insights into cancer biology, to develop prognostic biomarkers and treatments. Considering the recent advances in single‐cell proteomics, herein we review several novel technologies with particular focus on single‐cell mass spectrometry analysis, and summarize their advantages and practical applications in the diagnosis and treatment for cancer. Technological development in single‐cell proteomics will bring a paradigm shift in cancer detection, intervention, and therapy.
A Combined Molecular Dynamic Simulation and Synchrotron X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopy to Characterize the Atomistic Local Structure of Ion‐Containing Polymers
Authors: Vao‐soongnern Visit , Chaodamrongsakul Jittima , Reungsri Kanokporn , Sirirak Kanjana , Amonpattaratkit Penphitcha , Klysubun Wantana
Published: April 2023

A combined method of molecular dynamic (MD) simulation and synchrotron extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy has been applied to characterize the atomistic local structure of salt ion in polypropylene glycol/potassium thiocyanate (PPG/KSCN). Agreement between simulated and experimental EXAFS spectra is satisfied for both amplitude and frequency. Results imply that, by average, K+ ions are coordinated with PPG by 3.8 ether oxygen at the distance of 2.65 Å from two PPG chains. K+ ions are coordinated to one thiocyanate (SCN−) ion at both N and S position. Polymer chains have more gauche conformation in PPG/KSCN compared to neat PPG.
Isolation of Furfuryl Alcohol Degrading Bacteria from Aromatic Compound‐Based Industrial Waste
Authors: Singh Priyaragini , Kumar Rakesh
Published: April 2023

Polyfurfuryl alcohol (PFA) is one of the thermoset biopolymers that can meet the demand of green polymers. Furfuryl alcohol (FA) is the building unit of this promising biopolymer. This work is a preliminary study of microbial degradation of FA. FA degrading bacterial strains have been isolated from sites exposed to various aromatic compounds such as industrial effluents. A total of eight bacterial isolates have been selected as potential FA degraders based on their growth, with FA as the sole carbon source, colony morphology, and biochemical characteristics. In addition, the biokinetic study of the potent bacterial isolates has been performed, and a specific growth rate evaluated.
Light and Solvent Effect on Isomerization and Excimer Formation of Pyrene—Schiff Base Conjugate Sensing Aromatic Analytes
Authors: Mondal Sanjoy , Panja Aditi , Nandi Arun K.
Published: April 2023

Pyrene is a fluorescent polycyclic aromatic compound and it will be fascinating whether its excimer complex can be used for sensing of aromatic analytes. So, (E)‐3,4,5‐tris(dodecyloxy)‐N'‐(pyren‐1‐ylmethylene) benzohydrazide (P@M) is synthesized. The E (trans)‐isomer of P@M exhibits bright fluorescence for excimer formation in non‐aromatic solvents for closeness of pyrene moieties of E‐P@M. Upon photo‐irradiation with λ = 254 nm E‐P@M changes to Z‐P@M (cis ‐isomer) at 10−4 M concentration in methyl cyclohexane (MCH) yielding diminished PL‐intensity. Interestingly, upon photo irradiation with λ = 365 nm, the Z‐isomer of P@M reverts to E‐isomer indicating that, E‐Z isomerization of P@M is reversible in nature. The UV–vis absorption band at 370 nm of E‐P@M in MCH at 10−4 M shifts to 344 nm for its Z‐isomer formation. The thick supramolecular aggregated morphology of E‐P@M changes to flowery needle like morphology after photo irradiation with λ = 254 nm. The fluorescent emission of E‐P@M in MCH is quickly quenched on addition of different aromatic analytes through both static and dynamic path way. In solid state E‐P@M also sense aromatic vapors efficiently via fluorescence quenching.
Thymol and Carvacrol: Phenolic Monoterpenes Extracted from the Essential Oil of Thymus vulgaris as Natural Antimicrobial Guests of Nanoporous Crystalline Syndiotactic Polystyrene Fibers
Authors: Cozzolino Antonietta , Botta Chiara , Daniel Christophe , Rizzo Paola
Published: April 2023

Thymol and carvacrol, relevant natural antimicrobial molecules, induce co‐crystallization and, in absence of any mechanical stretching, also high degrees of axial orientation on s‐PS amorphous fibers. The release of thymol and carvacrol from s‐PS co‐crystalline fibers has been analyzed to realize long‐term antimicrobial fabrics. Partition between isolated guest molecules, present in co‐crystalline phase or simply dissolved in the amorphous phase, has been investigated by FTIR and thermogravimetric measurements. These analyses have been confirmed by polarized FTIR spectra of axially oriented s‐PS films.
The Effect of Blending Natural Rubber‐graft‐poly(methyl methacrylate) on the Dielectric Relaxation of Poly(ethylene oxide)
Authors: Zainal Nurul Fatahah Asyqin , Chan Chin Han
Published: April 2023

This study focuses on the dielectric relaxation of the immiscible PEO/NR‐g‐PMMA blends. Due to the heterogeneous morphologies of the blends, the molecular mobility in the polymer chains displays various relaxation responses. The dielectric relaxation of the blends is analyzed in terms of complex impedance, complex permittivity, tangent loss spectra, and complex modulus. The molten neat PEO promotes a long‐range conduction mechanism. On the other hand, NR‐g‐PMMA displays the relaxation of short‐range motion only at temperatures above the glass transition temperature of PMMA‐graft. As for the blends, the relaxation of the dipoles proceeds slower and broader dispersion of relaxation times occurs when NR‐g‐PMMA is added to PEO. In the molten state, only blends with an excess of PEO display the dominance of the long‐range motion of the dipolar entities. The short‐range motion of the dipolar entities becomes dominant when NR‐g‐PMMA is in excess. This suggests that the high restriction of dipole motions in NR‐g‐PMMA affects the dielectric relaxation behavior of PEO/NR‐g‐PMMA blends.
Unraveling the Biochar Potential as Filler for Composites Preparation
Authors: Bartoli Mattia , Giorcelli Mauro , Jagdale Pravin , Rosso Carlo , Rovere Massimo , Tagliaferro Alberto
Published: April 2023

Biochar is the carbonaceous residue produced from pyrolytic conversion of biomass. Biochar is generally used for agricultural application as soil amendment without exploiting its full potentiality. This brief overview aims to present the use of biochar as filler for the production of reinforced and conductive composites. This study reports an up‐to‐date description of the most recent achievements reached in the field of both thermosetting and thermoplastic composites.
Order‐Disorder Transition of Triple Helical β‐1,3‐d‐Glucans in Aqueous Mixtures of Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Imidazole: Schizophyllan and its Chemically Modified Derivatives
Authors: Yoshiba Kazuto , Christensen Bjørn E.
Published: April 2023

Schizophyllan is a high molecular weight β‐1,3‐D‐glucan having three β‐1,3‐D‐glucoses and one branched β‐1,6‐D‐glucose in the repeating unit. It dissolves as a triple helix in aqueous solutions but exhibits two separate order‐disorder transitions: a low temperature cooperative order‐disorder transition (CODT) related mainly to the side chains, and a high temperature transition involving triplex dissociation. The branched side chain can be oxidized selectively by periodate oxidation to form a dialdehyde. Subsequent reactions may produce different kinds of derivatives: a dicarboxylated derivative (sclerox), or a Smith‐degraded (reduced dialdehyde) derivative. These derivatives still dissolve in water as trimers but the CODT may be strongly modified, depending on degree of chemical modification. The CODT behavior is analyzed with linear cooperative transition (LCT) theory. These theoretical analyses indicate that only unmodified units of sclerox and Smith degraded derivatives contribute to the transition enthalpy. With increasing degree of chemical modification, the transition curve broadens and the transition temperature shifts to lower temperatures. This happens because contiguous sequences of ordered structures gradually shorten with increasing degree of chemical modification. Dimethyl sulfoxide and imidazole are further employed to investigate solvent effects of CODT for both schizophyllan and the chemically modified derivatives. These compounds are shown to favorably associate with the unmodified units to stabilize the ordered structures.
Mechanical Properties of Polyvinyl Alcohol Stretched in Water as a Plasticizer
Authors: Ito Taiki , Nakaoki Takahiko
Published: April 2023

Stretching of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel in water is investigated to obtain high mechanical properties. PVA crystallization is enhanced by high‐temperature annealing, as is thermal degradation. When the PVA film is annealed above 150 °C, the intensities for the C─H and C─O stretching modes decreased in the infrared spectrum, indicating thermal degradation. For freeze/thaw cycled gel, the microcrystallite is formed as a cross‐linking point. These microcrystallites can be a nucleator during water‐evaporating and annealing processes to obtain the film. Higher crystallinity is obtained when the gel is formed from a high concentration of PVA aqueous solution, such as 20 wt%. Young's modulus and maximum stress annealed at 140 °C after the film is formed during a freeze/thaw cycled gel from a 20% PVA aqueous solution is 15.1 GPa and 220 MPa, respectively. When the film is stretched at room temperature below six‐times stretching, the lamellar orients along the stretching axis without further crystallization. When the oriented film is stretched in water at 50 °C, the film is able to stretch more than seven times because water acted as a plasticizer. The highly oriented PVA, combined with the increase in crystallinity, results in a dramatic improvement in mechanical properties. Both the maximum stress and Young's modulus are as high as 3.2 and 142 GPa, respectively.
Preparation of Hydroxyapatite from Buffalo Bone and its Biodegradable Nanocomposite with Poly(Butylene Adipate‐co‐Terephthalate)
Authors: Acharya Arun , Puri Ramesh , Giri Jyoti , Malla Komal Prasad , Khatiwada Lekh Nath , Sharma Kamal Prasad , Maruyama Takahiro , Adhikari Rameshwar
Published: April 2023

Is report, the extraction process for highly nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HAp) by thermal decomposition of the femur bone of buffalo and its utilization as filler to produce nanocomposite with poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT). Advanced analytical techniques (such as X‐ray diffraction [XRD], Fourier transform infrared [FTIR] spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy [SEM]) are employed to study the structural, chemical, and morphological properties of the HAp. The XRD analyses reveal that the crystallite size of HAp particles significantly increases from 10 (at 600 °C) to 40 nm (at 1100 °C) on increasing the calcination temperature. The formation of agglomerates (having diameters ranging from 1.75 to 2.72 µm) with thin flake‐like crystals of the HAp is revealed by the SEM analysis. The biodegradation properties of the 3D printed PBAT/HAp nanocomposites are investigated by water absorption and tris‐buffer tests. The extent of water absorption of the nanocomposites is found to increase with the amount of the nanofiller.
Double‐Edged Effects of Venglustat on Behavior and Pathology in Mice Overexpressing α‐Synuclein
Authors: Schidlitzki Alina , Stanojlovic Milos , Fournier Céline , Käufer Christopher , Feja Malte , Gericke Birthe , Garzotti Marco , Welford Richard W.D. , Steiner Michel Alexander , Angot Elodie , Richter Franziska
Published: April 2023

Background

Venglustat is a brain‐penetrant, small molecule inhibitor of glucosylceramide synthase used in clinical testing for treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). Despite beneficial effects in certain cellular and rodent models, patients with PD with mutations in GBA, the gene for lysosomal glucocerebrosidase, experienced worsening of their motor function under venglustat treatment (NCT02906020, MOVES‐PD, phase 2 trial).

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate venglustat in mouse models of PD with overexpression of wild‐type α‐synuclein.

Methods

Mice overexpressing α‐synuclein (Thy1‐aSyn line 61) or Gba‐mutated mice with viral vector‐induced overexpression of α‐synuclein in the substantia nigra were administered venglustat as food admixture. Motor and cognitive performance, α‐synuclein‐related pathology, and microgliosis were compared with untreated controls.

Results

Venglustat worsened motor function in Thy1‐aSyn transgenics on the challenging beam and the pole test. Although venglustat did not alter the cognitive deficit in the Y‐maze test, it alleviated anxiety‐related behavior in the novel object recognition test. Venglustat reduced soluble and membrane‐bound α‐synuclein in the striatum and phosphorylated α‐synuclein in limbic brain regions. Although venglustat reversed the loss of parvalbumin immunoreactivity in the basolateral amygdala, it tended to increase microgliosis and phosphorylated α‐synuclein in the substantia nigra. Furthermore, venglustat also partially worsened motor performance and tended to increase neurofilament light chain in the cerebrospinal fluid in the Gba‐deficient model with nigral α‐synuclein overexpression and neurodegeneration.

Conclusions

Venglustat treatment in two mouse models of α‐synuclein overexpression showed that glucosylceramide synthase inhibition had differential detrimental or beneficial effects on behavior and neuropathology possibly related to brain region–specific effects. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Cross‐Ethnic Variant Screening and Burden Analysis of PTPA in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Li Chunyu , Lin Junyu , Jiang Qirui , Yang Tianmi , Xiao Yi , Huang Jingxuan , Hou Yanbing , Wei Qianqian , Cui Yiyuan , Wang Shichan , Xiaoting Zheng , Ou Ruwei , Liu Kuncheng , Chen Xueping , Song Wei , Zhao Bi , Shang Huifang
Published: April 2023

Background

Recently, homozygous variants in PTPA were identified as the disease cause for two pedigrees with early‐onset parkinsonism and intellectual disability. Although the initial link between PTPA and parkinsonism has been established, further replication was still necessary.

Objectives

To evaluate the genetic role of PTPA in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

We analyzed rare variants of PTPA in cohorts of Asian and European ancestries (Ncase = 2743, Ncontrol = 8177) with whole‐exome sequencing, and further explored the functional effect of the target variant.

Results

One patient with early‐onset PD from a consanguineous family carried the homozygous variant p.Met329Val, while her parents and elder sister with heterozygous p.Met329Val were healthy. This patient developed minor cognitive decline within 1 year, with a Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score dropping from 28 to 25. Functional exploration with overexpression studies suggested that this variant was associated with decreased protein phosphatase 2A (PTPA) protein level by affecting protein stability, but not mRNA expression.

Conclusions

These results have broadened the mutation spectrum of PTPA, and paved the way for further research into the role of PTPA in PD. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
No evidence of sustained recovery of native trout in response to angling suppression of invasive Brook Trout
Authors: Sinnatamby R. Niloshini , Cantin Ariane , Paul Andrew J. , Earle Jennifer , Post John R.
Published: April 2023

Objective

Nonnative fish invasions have had widespread impacts on freshwater ecosystems, including effects on native fish biodiversity and persistence. Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis were first introduced into the Elbow River watershed (Alberta, Canada) in the 1940s. They have since become established in Quirk Creek, and they dominated the fish community by the mid-1990s, raising concern about the native populations of Westslope Cutthroat Trout Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi and Bull Trout S. confluentus.

Methods

A targeted angling program was operated from 1998 to 2015, along with limited electrofishing removals, to suppress the Brook Trout population. We used 25 years of fish monitoring data from 1978 to 2020 to evaluate the program's effectiveness for reducing the Brook Trout population and the program's consequences for native trout.

Result

Densities of Brook Trout larger than 150 mm declined after the onset of the suppression project, and the decline was attributed to removals through angling. However, Brook Trout recruitment remained comparable to presuppression levels. Westslope Cutthroat Trout recruitment increased during and after Brook Trout suppression. Densities of Westslope Cutthroat Trout larger than 150 mm increased during the suppression period but did not reach density goals targeted for recovery of the species. Bull Trout remained at very low densities throughout the suppression project.

Conclusion

The lack of native trout recovery during the suppression project was hypothesized to result from (1) incidental release mortality of native trout, (2) Brook Trout suppression that was insufficient to prompt an effective response in native trout populations, or (3) a combination of these factors. Continued low densities of Brook Trout larger than 150 mm and native trout after the end of the suppression project (when harvest and incidental release mortality were alleviated) may point to some other factor impacting the recovery of trout larger than 150 mm, particularly Westslope Cutthroat Trout, since recruitment was at its highest during this period. Overall, angling was not considered an effective method for promoting native trout recovery, and other techniques should be pursued depending on management goals.
Field evaluation of electrofishing response thresholds for adult Grass Carp
Authors: Young Ryan T. , Boase James C. , Buszkiewicz John T. , Dean Jan C. , McCarter Jesse T.
Published: April 2023

Objective

Optimal electrofishing waveforms and parameters have been established for juvenile Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella in controlled laboratory trials, but effective settings for adult Grass Carp in riverine systems remain to be determined. This work builds upon existing research by making opportunistic use of data collected in the Cuyahoga River, Ohio, to refine power standards for boat electrofishing that is used to target adult Grass Carp.

Methods

Over 12 days of boat electrofishing surveys, we used a gradient of voltage settings at various ambient water conductivities to generate an electrofishing goal table for adult Grass Carp.

Result

Our target power was 3550 W (1447–6507 W) higher, on average, than the target power recommended in previous studies for coolwater and warmwater fish species with 60 Hz. Results also show that a 40-A control box is inadequate in locations where ambient water conductivities exceed 576 μS/cm and when power is limited.

Conclusion

Refining power standards for boat electrofishing that targets Grass Carp may increase catch rates to levels needed to suppress populations in the Great Lakes region and North America.
Backpack electrofishing can be used to collect adult lamprey
Authors: Litts Richard , Clemens Benjamin J. , Vonderohe Gary , Schaefer John
Published: April 2023

Objective

We describe a new method for collecting adult Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus in wadeable streams using a backpack electrofisher with pulsed direct current at 300 V, 50 Hz, and a 4-ms pulse width in a 150-m2 reach of Eel Creek, a small dunal stream in Oregon, United States.

Methods

The 150-m2 collection reach was predominately coarse substrate (20% boulders, 60% cobble, 15% pebbles, and 5% sand), whereas the substrate in the remainder of the 4.2-km-long Eel Creek is predominately sand and silt. The specific conductivity of the stream was 83.7 μS cm−1, water temperatures ranged from 8.9°C to 17.2°C, and water depth was less than 1.2 m. One person electrofished while gradually moving downstream, and up to six netters that were stationed up to 6 m away covered most of the channel width and caught the lamprey as they emerged from the substrate and floated or swam downstream.

Result

We collected 118 adult Pacific Lamprey (mean catch per unit effort = 29.5 lamprey h−1; range = 4–80 lamprey h−1) measuring 504 ± 54 mm TL (mean ± SD) over eight collection events during 2018–2021. Of these 118 fish, 117 were subsequently anesthetized, handled, tagged, and released within a few hours with no mortalities, external injuries, or abnormal behavior. One tagged lamprey (0.8% of all collected lamprey) died during a second collection 35 d later. The estimated peak power output was 267.7 μW cm−1, and the estimated mean body volume of the lamprey was 378 ± 68 cm3.

Conclusion

The results suggest that backpack electrofishing is a useful method for collecting adult lamprey in streams with favorable habitat that concentrates them.
Quality improvement project in a neonatal intensive care unit reduced the prevalence and duration of hypophosphatemia with significant and sustainable results
Authors: Lair Cheryl S. , Brown L. Steven , Edwards Audrey , Jacob Theresa , Brion Luc P. , Jaleel Mambarambath
Published: April 2023

Background

Hypophosphatemia is associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation and may affect growth, bone mineralization, nephrocalcinosis, and mortality in preterm infants. Optimal nutrition practices may decrease risk for hypophosphatemia and improve outcome.

Methods

A quality improvement project was established to improve parenteral and enteral phosphorus intake with the goal to decrease prevalence and duration of hypophosphatemia in the first 14 days in infants <32 weeks' gestation.

Results

Among 406 preterm infants, the prevalence of moderate hypophosphatemia decreased from 44% to 19% (P < 0.01) over 4 years. The median duration of moderate hypophosphatemia decreased from 72 h (48–128) to 24 (24–53) (P < 0.01). Daily intakes of parenteral calcium and phosphorus on the fourth day of life increased from 1.5 to 2.5 mEq/kg/day (P < 0.01) and 0.6 to 1.3 mmol/kg/day (P < 0.01), respectively. The median postnatal age of first serum phosphorus concentration assessment decreased from 53 h (41–64) to 32 (24–40) (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

During this quality improvement project, reduced prevalence and duration of hypophosphatemia in infants <32 weeks' gestation in the first 14 days of life was achieved through the optimization of parenteral and enteral phosphorus intake and improved response to acute hypophosphatemia.
Perceived obstacles and strategies to academic success for autistic and nonautistic high school students
Authors: Schaffer Gary E. , Faber Anthony J. , Shafaie Shahrokh M. , Stageberg Darin
Published: April 2023

Despite an increasing number of autistic children entering and graduating from high school, there remains limited research in this area. This study surveyed 162 autistic and nonautistic high school students. Participants were asked about their perceptions regarding their compensatory strategies, everyday hindrances, and areas of perceived strength. In controlling for background characteristics of gender, minority status, and age, results revealed that autistic and nonautistic students identified similar compensatory strategies, experienced similar obstacles, and drew on similar sources of strength to remain academically successful. Differences between autistic and nonautistic students are discussed along with differences between male and female respondents.
Multifunctional edible chitin nanofibers/ferulic acid composite coating for fruit preservation
Authors: Jia Qiaoqiao , Lin Xinghuan , Yang Yiwen , Duan Bo
Published: April 2023

About one‐third of the world's entire food production is lost or wasted every year, in which the perishables such as fruits and vegetables account for the largest proportion due to their short shelf life. Therefore, it has attracted great attention to the development of food preservation. In this paper, a simple strategy for food preservation is developed. Chitin nanofiber aqueous suspension is used as the substrate, and ferulic acid (FA) acts as the physical crosslinker to obtain a multifunctional composite protective coating for fruits. The results of Zeta potential, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) indicate that there are multiple noncovalent interactions between FA and chitin nanofibers. The chitin/FA coating films show superior mechanical properties, water and oxygen resistance. They could effectively reduce the water loss rate, delay ripening, and resist oxidation and microbial invasion for the fresh strawberries and fresh‐cut apples, indicating the potential in food preservation.
Engineering mutually orthogonal PylRS/tRNA pairs for dual encoding of functional histidine analogues
Authors: Taylor Christopher J. , Hardy Florence J. , Burke Ashleigh J. , Bednar Riley M. , Mehl Ryan A. , Green Anthony P. , Lovelock Sarah L.
Published: April 2023

The availability of an expanded genetic code opens exciting new opportunities in enzyme design and engineering. In this regard histidine analogues have proven particularly versatile, serving as ligands to augment metalloenzyme function and as catalytic nucleophiles in designed enzymes. The ability to genetically encode multiple functional residues could greatly expand the range of chemistry accessible within enzyme active sites. Here, we develop mutually orthogonal translation components to selectively encode two structurally similar histidine analogues. Transplanting known mutations from a promiscuous Methanosarcina mazei pyrrolysyl‐tRNA synthetase (MmPylRSIFGFF) into a single domain PylRS from Methanomethylophilus alvus (MaPylRSIFGFF) provided a variant with improved efficiency and specificity for 3‐methyl‐L‐histidine (MeHis) incorporation. The MaPylRSIFGFF clone was further characterized using in vitro biochemical assays and x‐ray crystallography. We subsequently engineered the orthogonal MmPylRS for activity and selectivity for 3‐(3‐pyridyl)‐L‐alanine (3‐Pyr), which was used in combination with MaPylRSIFGFF to produce proteins containing both 3‐Pyr and MeHis. Given the versatile roles played by histidine in enzyme mechanisms, we anticipate that the tools developed within this study will underpin the development of enzymes with new and enhanced functions.
Very lean hydrogen vapor cloud explosion testing
Authors: Malik Darren R. , Lowry W. B. , Vivanco E. , Thomas J. K.
Published: April 2023

Hydrogen is a key energy carrier for modern society. The breaking of the hydrogen bonds within traditional hydrocarbon molecules has been the primary mode of energy utilization since the industrial revolution. An increased focus on “net‐zero” greenhouse gas emissions, specifically carbon dioxide and methane, has resulted in a global push for lower carbon energy vectors, including pure hydrogen. Accurately modeling the dispersion, fire, and explosion hazards associated with new and existing hydrogen production, distribution and transportation networks, and consumption is a key component to the safe expansion of these networks. BakerRisk performed a series of very lean hydrogen‐air vapor cloud explosion (VCE) tests as part of an internal research effort. The goal of these tests was to better understand the VCE hazards associated with very lean hydrogen‐air mixtures (≤14% H2). Flame speeds and blast loads were measured using high‐speed video and an array of dynamic pressure transducers. This paper discusses the test setup and test results, including a comparison with data from prior tests. The measured flame speeds are compared to those predicted using computational fluid dynamics analysis and referenced to deflagration‐to‐detonation criteria. Discussion regarding the application of these test results to facility siting studies is also provided.
Topological indices and entropy of twisted cylinder‐nonorientable hexagonal Mobius strip
Authors: Qasim Muhammad , Shaker Hani , Zobair Mian Muhammad
Published: April 2023

Mobius strip is an infinite loop having one‐sided surface with no boundaries, also known as twisted cylinder. Möbius strips being widely used in different fields of engineering are of important nature in research. Being different in sizes and shapes, these can be visualized in Euclidean space but few cannot be. Topology of Mobius strips makes it a rare Euclidean representation of the infinite nature. Researchers expanded this concept and generalized it in the form of Klein bottles. In this article, we have derived various polynomials and respective topological indices for the Hexagonal Möbius graphs having each face as a hexagon. Also, inverse relationship between heat of formation and crystal size is developed for the calculated indices.
A reference model for software product line capability assessment
Authors: Gökalp Ebru , Çalişkanbaş Bora , Koçyiğit Altan
Published: April 2023

The Software Product Line (SPL) approach receives more attention due to the observed benefits, such as cost reduction, quality improvements, and reduced delivery time. Although organizations are aware of its potential benefits, they face some challenges while creating a clear road map to adopt this approach. Capability maturity models are developed to guide organizations by providing an extensive road map for improvement. Accordingly, we developed a capability maturity model, entitled SPL Capability Maturity Model (SPL‐CMM), to improve an organization's SPL capabilities by enabling the assessment of SPL‐specific processes and providing a guideline for process improvement. SPL‐CMM, developed based on SPICE‐ISO/IEC 330xx standard, has two dimensions of process and capability. The process dimension consists of 16 SPL‐specific processes defined under four process areas: business, architecture, technical, and organization, and the capability dimension has six capability and maturity levels from levels 0 to 5. It is a structured approach assisted by adequate measures with guidance on actions for improvement. A case study was conducted to check the applicability and usefulness of the proposed approach in a software company. The case study results show that SPL‐CMM is applicable for identifying the current state of the SPL process capability and the gaps for process improvement to the next level.
A comprehensive study on cybersecurity challenges and opportunities in the IoT world
Authors: Lone Aejaz Nazir , Mustajab Suhel , Alam Mahfooz
Published: April 2023

It has become possible to link anything and everything to the Internet in recent decades due to the expanding Internet of Things (IoT). As a result, our usage of technology has changed a lot, causing digital disruption in the real world. IoT allows drones, sensors, digital set‐top boxes, surveillance cameras, wearable technology, and medical equipment to be connected to the internet. Healthcare, manufacturing, utilities, transportation, and housing are among the various sectors that has become intelligent. Recently, we have seen a surge in cybersecurity challenges and opportunities for the improvement of various IoT applications. Although cybersecurity and the IoT are extensively researched, there is a dearth of studies that exclusively focus on the evolution of cybersecurity challenges in the area of AI and machine learning, blockchain and zero trust, lightweight security, integration of IoT with 5G networks, and many more in the IoT world. The availability of environment‐capturing sensors and internet‐connected tracking devices allows for private life surveillance and cloud data transmission. Therefore, a significant problem for researchers and developers is to ensure the CIA (Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability) security triangle for people. This paper presents a comprehensive study of cybersecurity applications, challenges, and opportunities in the IoT world. The IoT architectural layer, attacks against the IoT layer, and related issues are highlighted. Furthermore, cybersecurity issues and challenges in IoT along with the strength and weaknesses of existing techniques are discussed in detail. Our study will provide insight into various current cybersecurity research trends in the IoT world.
Sustainability perspective in fib MC2020: Contribution of concrete structures to sustainability
Authors: Hajek Petr
Published: April 2023

Sustainability is a global goal of sustainable development aimed at ensuring a quality life on the Earth for the future generations. Buildings, infrastructure and the entire built environment should be better prepared for the new conditions—they should be sustainable, resilient and adaptable to new situations. This requires new technical solutions for the construction, reconstruction, and modernization of buildings and all other engineering structures. Concrete is gradually becoming a building material with great potential for realizing technical solutions that meet new requirements, leading to the necessary reduction of environmental impacts and consequent improvement of social and economic conditions. The paper presents implementation of sustainability principles in the new fib Model Code 2020 (MC2020). This represents a contribution of the International Federation for Structural Concrete (fib) to the achievements of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), set by the United Nations in 2015 as an action plan for the period up to 2030.
19F‐Labeled Probes for Recognition‐Enabled Chromatographic 19F NMR
Authors: Xu Zhenchuang , Zhao Yanchuan
Published: April 2023

The NMR technique is among the most powerful analytical methods for molecular structural elucidation, process monitoring, and mechanistic investigations; however, the direct analysis of complex real‐world samples is often hampered by crowded NMR spectra that are difficult to interpret. The combination of fluorine chemistry and supramolecular interactions leads to a unique detection method named recognition‐enabled chromatographic (REC) 19F NMR, where interactions between analytes and 19F‐labeled probes are transduced into chromatogram‐like 19F NMR signals of discrete chemical shifts. In this account, we summarize our endeavor to develop novel 19F‐labeled probes tailored for separation‐free multicomponent analysis. The strategies to achieve chiral discrimination, sensitivity enhancement, and automated analyte identification will be covered. The account will also provide a detailed discussion of the underlying principles for the design of molecular probes for REC 19F NMR where appropriate.
Antimicrobial use in the surgical treatment of canine pyometra: A questionnaire survey of Arizona‐licensed veterinarians
Authors: Lavin Lindsey E. , Maki Lynn C.
Published: April 2023

Background

Recent studies and consensus statements in veterinary and human medicine recommend more judicious use of antimicrobials. While guidelines have been provided for some veterinary diseases, others have poorly elucidated guidelines. Postoperative treatment of canine pyometra is a condition with minimal guidelines regarding antimicrobial use.

Objective

To identify and investigate patterns of antimicrobial use following surgically treated canine pyometra.

Methods

A 23‐question survey, sent to 863 small and mixed animal practitioners, investigated demographics, patterns of antibiotic use, rate of culture submission and participant's recollection of outcomes of surgically treated pyometra cases. Responses were analysed for relationships between demographics, patterns of antibiotic use and culture results to better understand reasoning for antibiotic protocols.

Results

One hundred and fifty‐two responses were received. Overall, 76% of veterinarians stated they always use preoperative and perioperative antibiotics, and 74% stated they always use postoperative antibiotics. A total of 16 different antibiotics were reported. Twelve per cent of respondents regularly submitted a culture. Culture submission was impacted by cost, prior experience, poor owner compliance, result turnaround time and anticipated results.

Conclusions

Most respondents always used antibiotics and rarely or never submitted a culture. To optimise patient care, future clinical studies are needed to determine specific guidelines for the use of culture and antibiotics in the treatment of canine pyometra following ovariohysterectomy.
Complete recovery after suspected phenobarbital‐induced acute liver failure in a dog
Authors: Balana Pedrol Jordi , Seth Mayank
Published: April 2023

Acute liver failure is a syndrome with poor prognosis, with idiosyncratic drug injury being associated with a particularly poor outcome in both veterinary and human medicine. This case report presents a 4‐year 9‐month‐old, male, entire Eurasier with history of phenobarbital treatment for 1 year 6 months for idiopathic epilepsy that presented for investigation of a 5‐day history of abdominal distension, 2 weeks of hyporexia, polyuria, polydipsia intermittent vomiting and increased epileptic seizure frequency. The patient made a complete recovery from acute liver failure, presumed to be induced by phenobarbital toxicity. The presentation, diagnostic approach, investigations performed, treatment and progression are discussed in the following pages. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first described case of a dog to make a full recovery after acute liver failure due to suspected phenobarbital toxicity.