bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Physico-chemical Properties of Soil from Different Blocks of Kandhmal District, Odisha, India
Authors: Patra Hrusikesh , Thomas Tarence , Singh Anurag Kumar , Bhinchar Sudhir , Dessai Bhushan , Naga Indar Raj , Nama Pragya
Published: June 2023

A study was done to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of soils in 2022–23 in several Kandhmal districts of Odisha. The primary goals of this study were to investigate the physico-chemical characteristics of soil at various depths. To determine the availability of macronutrients in soil samples from Udayagiri, Raikia, and Tikabali blocks in Kandhmal District, Odisha, and to provide an assessment, 9 sampling locations were chosen. The depths at which soil samples were taken were 0–15, 15–30 and 30–45 cm, respectively. The soil colour (dry condition) varied from brownish yellow to yellow. The soil colour (wet condition) varied from dark reddish brown to dark brown. On practically every site, sand and loam dominated the soil texture. Bulk density varied between 1.01 and 1.49 Mg/m3). The range of the particle density was 2.14 to 2.52 Mg m-3. Pore space varied between 47.64 and 41.11%. The range of the water-retaining capacity was 45.17 to 39.17%. The pH of the soil was 5.01 to 6.15, which indicates that it is moderately acidic. Between 0.17 and 0.41 dS m-1, the electrical conductivity was found to be The range of the soil's organic carbon was 0.21 to 0.41%. The range of available nitrogen was 134–330 kg ha-1. The range of available phosphorus was 3.56 to 23.82 kg ha-1. From 108.39 to 256 kg ha-1, there was potassium that was readily available. Between 3.32 and 4.02 cmol (p+) kg-1 of exchangeable calcium were present. The range of the exchangeable magnesium was 2.6 to 3.6 [cmol (p+) kg-1]. are very sufficient on this soil. There is growing awareness of the importance of improving the soil's macronutrients for good soil health and optimal plant nutrition in order to achieve the highest possible economic yield and a soil that is suited for all important tropical and subtropical crops. Results suggest that farmers should adopt appropriate soil management techniques, such as conservation tillage and crop rotation, which will contribute to maintaining the soil's physical characteristics and ensure the sustainability of agricultural practises and the long-term health of the soil.
Performance of Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria L.) Genotypes for Yield and Quality under Climatic Conditions of Prayagraj
Authors: Gaonkar Vibha Vithal , Bahadur Vijay , Topno Samir E. , Kerketta Anita
Published: June 2023

An experiment on the “Performance of Bottle Gourd Genotypes i.e. (AVT-II/2019/BOGVAR-1, AVT-II/2019/BOGVAR-2, AVT-II/2019/BOGVAR-3, AVT-II/2019/BOGVA-4, AVT-II/2019/BOGVA-5, AVT-II/2019/BOGVAR-6 RITURAJ (CHECK), GREENINDIA (CHECK), NATIONAL AGRO (CHECK), SHANKAR (CHECK) for yield and quality under climatic conditions of prayagraj” was conducted during February to May, 2022, in field of Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) India. The experiment was conducted in Randomized block design, with three replications. The genotype AVT-II/2019/BOGVAR-6 recorded maximum number of female flowers (15.66), number of fruits/plant (8.88 fruits), average yield per plant (5.71 kg/plant), yield per hectare (342.44 q/ha).
Response of Biofertilizers and Foliar Application of Zinc on Growth and Yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris L.)
Authors: Divya Kosuri , Singh Rajesh , Thakur Indu
Published: June 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2022 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Prayagraj, UP, during the Rabi season of 2022. The experiment consisted of two variables with three levels i.e, biofertilizer (Rhizobium spp, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Rhizobium spp + Pseudomonas fluorescens) and foliar application of zinc (0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%) at pre flowering and pod development stage. The soil had a sandy loam texture, with a pH of 7.2, organic carbon (0.72%), available N (178.48 kg/ha), available P (27.80 kg/ha) and available K (233.24 kg/ha). The experiment conducted in randomized block design with ten treatments replicated thrice. Among various treatments, combined application of biofertilizers along with foliar application of zinc significantly influenced the growth parameters, yield attributing characters and yield. The results revealed that treatment eight (Rhizobium spp + Pseudomonas fluorescens + Zinc 0.50%) recorded significantly highest plant height (43.29 cm), dry weight (35.63 g), number of pods/plant (111.33), number of seeds/pod (2.27), seed yield (1530.94 kg/ha) and stover yield (3020.00 kg/ha) in Lentil.
Understanding the Biochemical Basis of Resistance in Rice to Leaffolder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis)
Authors: Nalla Anil Varma , Nadaradjan S. , Adiroubane D. , Kumar K.
Published: June 2023

Rice leaf folder has been recorded to cause major loss in rice yield. To know the relevance of biochemical factors in conferring tolerance to rice leaffolder Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, a study was conducted utilizing 196 rice accessions at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal. Standard evaluation system developed by IRRI for leaf folder complex was followed for screening the rice accessions and entries were ranked accordingly based on the leaf damage. Among these entries, top five entries along with the susceptible check (TN1) were selected for analysis of biochemical factors such as total chlorophyll, total sugars, reducing sugars, total phenols, total soluble protein and proline. Results revealed that high level of total phenols, moderate chlorophyll content, and low sugar content in leaves conferred resistance to this pest in rice.
Neonatal Iron Stores Depend on Gestational Age: A Prospective Comparative Cross-sectional Study at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Asinobi Isaac Nwabueze
Published: June 2023

Aims: To establish mean values for serum ferritin at different gestational ages. To determine the relationship between serum ferritin and gestational age.

Methodology: This was a prospective, comparative, cross sectional study carried out at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Enugu State, Nigeria between June and December 2014. The study included 140 newborns with gestational ages of 25 weeks to 39 weeks, delivered at the UNTH. Babies with C-reactive protein levels > 10mg/dl, who were intra-uterine growth restricted, and whose mothers had conditions associated with low iron stores were excluded from the study. Anthropometric measurements were recorded for all subjects. Serum ferritin was measured at birth and this was correlated with gestational age.

Results: Serum ferritin levels ranged from 20.6 to 296.4µg/l. The mean serum ferritin level was 93.14µg/l ± 57.69. There was a significant difference among the mean serum ferritin levels amongst different categories of gestational age (F = 11.159, P <.001).  Low serum ferritin was found in 85.7%, 48.1% and 16.7% of extreme preterms, very preterms and moderate to late preterms respectively 2 = 49.777, P < .05). Extreme preterms were sixty-four times more likely than term babies to have low serum ferritin (P <.01, OR = 64.00, 95% C.I for OR = 6.570 – 623.455), while very preterms were ten times more likely than term babies to have low serum ferritin levels (P < .001, OR = 9.905 95% C.I = 3.209 -30.570). In addition, moderate to late preterms were two times more likely than term babies to have low serum ferritin levels (P = 0.220, OR = 2.133, 95% C.I for OR = 0.635 – 7.167). There was a significant strong positive correlation between serum ferritin levels and gestational age in the study population (r = 0.656, P < .001).

Conclusion: There is a wide range of serum ferritin amongst newborn babies. There is also a significant strong positive correlation between serum ferritin levels and gestational age.
Mediating Effect of Inflation on the Relationship between Earnings and Share Prices of Listed Firms in Nigeria
Authors: Hanga Bilyaminu , Soje Benedict , Abba Mohammed
Published: June 2023

This study examines the effects of earnings on share price as well as the mediating effects of inflation on the relationship between earnings and share prices of listed companies in Nigeria using earnings per share as the independent variable, share prices as the dependent variable and inflation rate as the mediating variable. Data were collected from a sample size of 75 companies across all the sectors of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX). Regression analysis and structural equation model (SEM) were used to analyze the data collected. The results of the findings indicates that EPS has a positive but insignificant effect on share prices of listed companies in the NGX while inflation shows a mediating effect on the relationship between EPS and share prices. Based on the findings, the study recommend that attention should be on EPS by investors hoping to grow share prices of their companies and that other macro-economic variable should also be considered in making investment decision on share prices.
Phytochemical Composition and Anti-Motility Effects of Napoleonae imperialis Methanol Crude Leaf Extract and Fractions in Rats
Authors: Kelechi C. Oguamanam, , Omeh Yusuf N. , Emmanuel Uhuo , Ofoezie Raymond C.
Published: June 2023

Background: Extracts from that Napoleonae imperialis leaves have traditionally been used to treat wounds and diarrhoea in south east Nigeria.

Aim: The present study was carried out to evaluate following scientific principles, the phytochemical composition and anti-motility effect of leaf extract and fractions prepared from the plants in experimental rats.

Methods: Crude extract was prepared from the plant’s leaves and was subjected to phytochemical and acute toxicity tests. Thereafter, the extract was fractionated using column and thin layer chromatographic techniques. Anti-motility effect of the crude extract and fractions was evaluated using 80 rats assigned to 16 groups of 5 rats each. While group 1 served as control and group 2 was treated with Loperamide (0.5 mg/kg), groups 3-16 were treated with specific dose levels of the crude extract or fraction before charcoal meal 30 minutes after treatments. The animals were sacrificed in a further 30 minutes to assess the extents of movement of the charcoal meal along the gastrointestinal tract.

Results: Alkaloids (31.09 +0.44 mg/100 g) were the most abundant phytochemical identified in the crude extract and was followed by flavonoids (17.19± 0.90 mg/100 g). Others were saponins (9.61±0.12 mg/100 g), tannins, (3.23±0.06 mg/100 g), phenolics (8.83±0.41 mg/100 g), steroids (5.24±0.10 mg/100 g), terpenoids (2.58±0.11 mg/100 g) and cardiac glycosides (4.95±0.08 mg/100 g). Results of acute toxicity (LD50) test showed no mortality nor obvious signs of toxicity, even at an oral dose of 5000 mg/kg in rats. Results of the anti-motility studies showed that Napoleonae imperialis crude extract and fractions significantly inhibited charcoal meal transit in rat’s gastrointestinal tract with 500 mg/kg of the extract producing an inhibitory effect of 51.44±3.53%. A repeat of the test on chromatographic fractions of the extract showed that fraction 5 had the highest anti-motility effect having produced an inhibitory effect of 87.70±6.04% on intestinal motility.

Conclusion: Our findings have shown that Napoleonae imperialis leaves contain pharmacologically active components with antidiarrhoeal activities and may be the reason for its antidiarrheoal application in traditional medicine. The observed effects of the extract may be due to its flavonoids and tannins contents and may be via the anticholinergic and osmotic pathway. Solvent combination for fraction 5 may be the most ideal for higher anti-motility effects. More work is required to further establish these findings.
Molecular Oncology and the EACR: new partners in communicating and supporting cancer research
Authors: Ryan Kevin M. , Smith Jane , Bernards René
Published: June 2023

The formation of organisations and societies within all areas of scientific research facilitates the bringing together of researchers in a given field and serves to aid communication, collaboration, progress of science and career development. Even greater gain can be attained when individual organisations form partnerships to complement each other's activities and to increase the scope of their endeavours. Within this editorial, we highlight the key points of a new partnership formed between two non‐profit bodies within cancer research, the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR) and Molecular Oncology, a journal wholly owned by the Federation of European Biochemical Societies (FEBS).
Insights from the remote co‐creation of an Indigenous knowledge questionnaire about aquatic ecosystems in Kinngait, Nunavut
Authors: Christie Laurissa R. , Drake Allison K. , Perkovic Adam ,   Aiviq Hunters and Trappers Association, Manning Ooloosie , Peter Sheojuk , Qiatsuq Pudloo , Alexander Steven M. , Nguyen Vivian M. , Dunmall Karen M.
Published: June 2023

There is growing interest in co‐developing research projects that more fully address the priorities of Indigenous communities throughout the Canadian Arctic and beyond. However, details regarding collaborative methods are often not adequately described in the literature.

Here, we describe a process to remotely co‐create a questionnaire compiling Indigenous knowledge about local aquatic species and their habitats with the community of Kinngait, Nunavut. This project was undertaken in response to interest expressed by the Aiviq Hunters and Trappers Association in understanding and assessing the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems.

Researchers from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and academic partners drafted an initial questionnaire that was revised through a series of collaborative sessions with community‐based technicians.

We detail the stages of this process and discuss elements that enabled co‐creation including: adaptable and frequent communication, community technician roles, and a pre‐existing partnership.

This paper emphasizes that project co‐development and the co‐creation of research tools can be a mutually beneficial process that can broaden our collective understanding of the impacts of climate change on Arctic aquatic ecosystems.
Systematic Analysis of Tissue‐Derived and Biofluid Extracellular Vesicle miRNAs Associated with Prostate Cancer
Authors: Larson Jeevan , Ozen Mehmet Ozgun , Kohli Manish , Akin Demir , Demirci Utkan
Published: June 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as biomarker candidates for early detection of prostate cancer. Studies compare EV‐microRNA (miRNA) expression in individuals with prostate cancer (PCa) with cancer‐free samples for diagnostic purposes. The aim of this study is to review miRNA signatures to investigate the overlap between miRNAs enriched in PCa tissue and miRNAs enriched in EVs isolated from subjects with PCa biofluids (i.e., urine, serum, and plasma). Signatures dysregulated in EVs from PCa biofluids and tissue are potentially associated with the primary tumor site and might be more indicative of PCa at an early stage. A systematic review of EV‐derived miRNAs and a reanalysis of PCa tissue miRNA sequencing data for comparison is presented. Articles in the literature are screened for validated miRNA dysregulation in PCa and compared with TCGA primary PCa tumor data using DESeq2. This resulted in 190 dysregulated miRNAs being identified. Thirty‐one eligible studies are identified, indicating 39 dysregulated EV‐derived miRNAs. The top ten markers identified as significantly dysregulated in the PCa tissue dataset TCGA (e.g., miR‐30b‐3p, miR‐210‐3p, miR‐126‐3p, and miR‐196a‐5p) have a significant expression change in EVs with the same directionality in one or several statistically significant results. This analysis highlights several less frequently studied miRNAs in PCa literature.
The Impact of Vaccination Time on the Antibody Response to an Inactivated Vaccine against SARS‐CoV‐2 (IMPROVE‐2): A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lai Fenghua , Li Bin , Mei Jie , Zhou Qian , Long Jianyan , Liang Ruiming , Mo Ruohui , Peng Sui , Liu Yihao , Xiao Haipeng
Published: June 2023

There is still controversy about whether severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccination at different times of day will induce a stronger immune response. Therefore, a randomized controlled trial (ChiCTR2100045109) is conducted to investigate the impact of vaccination time on the antibody response to the inactivated vaccine against SARS‐CoV‐2 from April 15 to 28, 2021. Participants are randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine in the morning or afternoon. The primary endpoint is the change of neutralizing antibody between baseline and 28 days after the second dose. In total, 503 participants are randomized, and 469 participants (238 in the morning group and 231 in the afternoon group) complete the follow‐up. There is no significant difference in the change of neutralizing antibody between baseline and 28 days after the second dose between the morning and afternoon groups (22.2 [13.2, 45.0] AU mL−1 vs 22.0 [14.4, 40.7] AU mL−1, P = 0.873). In prespecified age and sex subgroup analyses, there is also no significant difference in the morning and afternoon group (all P > 0.05). This study demonstrates that the vaccination time does not affect the antibody response of two doses of inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine.
Recent Advances and Clinical Potential of Near Infrared Photothermal Conversion Materials for Photothermal Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy
Authors: Ge Rui‐Liang , Yan Pei‐Ning , Liu Yang , Li Zhi‐Shuai , Shen Shu‐Qun , Yu Yong
Published: June 2023

Growing concern about photothermal tumor therapy (PTT) as a promising alternative to conventional liver cancer treatment, which is a treatment strategy that utilizes near‐infrared (NIR) light‐induced photothermal agents (PTAs) to yield photothermal effects to localize thermal damage for tumors. Herein, given the gap between experimental research and clinical application, this review seeks to timely summarize and highlight the recent progress of PTAs used for photothermal treatment of liver cancer in vivo and in vitro in the last five‐year. The implications of various PTAs on the multifunctional photothermal conversion capability, the structure‐performance correlations of PTT, together with the evaluation of their potential in application are systematically dissected to further dig out what the buried mechanism is. Besides, higher requirements are put forward for the discrepancies and crucial issues faced by different PTAs in PTT with related medical technical obstacles being conquered, which lays a solid theoretical foundation for the medical field of oncology treatment as a whole, especially liver cancer. Finally, it is expected that this review can present valuable guidance for the design of efficient, photostability, and biosafety‐aware PTAs for anticancer therapy while stepping into the fast traffic lane for the conversion from bench to bedside in the foreseeable future.
Silver‐Containing Biomaterials for Biomedical Hard Tissue Implants
Authors: Shao Huifeng , Zhang Tao , Gong Youping , He Yong
Published: June 2023

Bacterial infection caused by biomaterials is a very serious problem in the clinical treatment of implants. The emergence of antibiotic resistance has prompted other antibacterial agents to replace traditional antibiotics. Silver is rapidly developing as an antibacterial candidate material to inhibit bone infections due to its significant advantages such as high antibacterial timeliness, high antibacterial efficiency, and less susceptibility to bacterial resistance. However, silver has strong cytotoxicity, which can cause inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress, thereby destroying tissue regeneration, making the application of silver‐containing biomaterials extremely challenging. In this paper, the application of silver in biomaterials is reviewed, focusing on the following three issues: 1) how to ensure the excellent antibacterial properties of silver, and not easy to cause bacterial resistance; 2) how to choose the appropriate method to combine silver with biomaterials; 3) how to make silver‐containing biomaterials in hard tissue implants have further research. Following a brief introduction, the discussion focuses on the application of silver‐containing biomaterials, with an emphasis on the effects of silver on the physicochemical properties, structural properties, and biological properties of biomaterials. Finally, the review concludes with the authors’ perspectives on the challenges and future directions of silver in commercialization and in‐depth research.
EISA in Tandem with ICD to Form In Situ Nanofiber Vaccine for Enhanced Tumor Radioimmunotherapy
Authors: Luo Hongjing , Cao Hongmei , Jia Haixue , Shang Yuna , Liu Jinjian , Gui Han , Yang Cuihong , Ren Chunhua , Wang Zhongyan , Liu Jianfeng
Published: June 2023

Radiotherapy (RT) can produce a vaccine effect and remodel a tumor microenvironment (TME) by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD) and inflammation in tumors. However, RT alone is insufficient to elicit a systemic antitumor immune response owing to limited antigen presentation, immunosuppressive microenvironment, and chronic inflammation within the tumor. Here, a novel strategy is reported for the generation of in situ peptide‐based nanovaccines via enzyme‐induced self‐assembly (EISA) in tandem with ICD. As ICD progresses, the peptide Fbp‐GDFDFDpY (Fbp‐pY), dephosphorylated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) forms a fibrous nanostructure around the tumor cells, resulting in the capture and encapsulation of the autologous antigens produced by radiation. Utilizing the adjuvant and controlled‐release advantages of self‐assembling peptides, this nanofiber vaccine effectively increases antigen accumulation in the lymph nodes and cross‐presentation by antigen‐presenting cells (APCs). In addition, the inhibition of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX–2) expression by the nanofibers promotes the repolarization of M2‐macrophages into M1 and reduces the number of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) required for TME remodeling. As a result, the combination of nanovaccines and RT significantly enhances the therapeutic effect on 4T1 tumors compared with RT alone, suggesting a promising treatment strategy for tumor radioimmunotherapy.
Printed Bilayer Liquid Metal Soft Sensors for Strain and Tactile Perception in Soft Robotics
Authors: Kaneko Takeru , Wang Yi‐Fei , Hori Mayuka , Sekine Tomohito , Yoshida Ayako , Takeda Yasunori , Kumaki Daisuke , Tokito Shizuo
Published: June 2023

A liquid metal (LM) soft sensors for strain monitoring and self‐powered tactile detection in soft robotics are developed. The sensor is fabricated by printing a bilayer of oxidized LM paste and bare LM on a soft substrate. This bilayer design overcomes the challenges in scalable printing of liquid metal and demonstrates soft sensors with exceptional electromechanical performance. Specifically, the sensor exhibits a strain sensing range of over 400% with a gauge factor of over 2, while displaying low hysteresis and high mechanical stability. Furthermore, the sensor utilizes a single electrode triboelectric effect to achieve self‐powered tactile sensing. To demonstrate the potential of these sensors in soft robotics, it is integrated into a soft pneumatic actuator and successfully demonstrate their ability to perceive gestures, motion, and grasping. This work highlights the potential of LM‐based soft sensors in advancing the field of soft sensing and soft robotics.
Precisely Manipulating the Self‐Reduction of Manganese in MgGa2O4 through Lithium Incorporation for Optical Thermometry and Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Xue Junpeng , Li Ling , Runowski Marcin , Guo Yue , Lee Bo Ram , Jeong Jung Hyun , Du Peng , Park Sung Heum
Published: June 2023

Manganese (Mn) doped MgGa2O4 (MGO) phosphors are prepared by a solid‐state reaction technique in air. Upon UV light excitation, the featured green and red emissions of Mn2+ and Mn4+, respectively, are detected in the Mn‐doped MGO phosphors, indicating the incomplete self‐reduction behavior of Mn in the MGO host lattices. To clarify the incomplete self‐reduction behavior, theoretical calculations based on density functional theory and bond energy theory are performed. Moreover, the self‐reduction behavior of Mn can be manipulated by the incorporation of Li+, leading to the precise regulation of the Mn2+ and Mn4+ contents in the MGO host lattices. Based on the ionic radii, the inhibited self‐reduction mechanism is triggered by Li+ occupying the tetrahedral Mg2+ site, leading to the reduced occupancy of tetrahedral Mg2+ sites by Mn ions, and forcing Mn to take up the octahedral Ga3+ sites. Furthermore, the afterglow properties of phosphors with wide and continuous multiple traps are studied in detail. Finally, based on unique luminescence properties of the phosphors, their potential application in ratiometric optical thermometer and optical anti‐counterfeiting is also systematically exploited.
YY2‐DRP1 Axis Regulates Mitochondrial Fission and Determines Cancer Stem Cell Asymmetric Division
Authors: Wei Mankun , Nurjanah Uli , Li Juan , Luo Xinxin , Hosea Rendy , Li Yanjun , Zeng Jianting , Duan Wei , Song Guanbin , Miyagishi Makoto , Kasim Vivi , Wu Shourong
Published: June 2023

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are associated with tumor progression, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance. To maintain their pool while promoting tumorigenesis, CSCs divide asymmetrically, producing a CSC and a highly proliferative, more differentiated transit‐amplifying cell. Exhausting the CSC pool has been proposed as an effective antitumor strategy; however, the mechanism underlying CSC division remains poorly understood, thereby largely limiting its clinical application. Here, through cross‐omics analysis, yin yang 2 (YY2) is identified as a novel negative regulator of CSC maintenance. It is shown that YY2 is downregulated in stem‐like tumor spheres formed by hepatocarcinoma cells and in liver cancer, in which its expression is negatively correlated with disease progression and poor prognosis. Furthermore, it is revealed that YY2 overexpression suppressed liver CSC asymmetric division, leading to depletion of the CSC pool and decreased tumor‐initiating capacity. Meanwhile, YY2 knock‐out in stem‐like tumor spheres caused enrichment in mitochondrial functions. Mechanistically, it is revealed that YY2 impaired mitochondrial fission, and consequently, liver CSC asymmetric division, by suppressing the transcription of dynamin‐related protein 1. These results unravel a novel regulatory mechanism of mitochondrial dynamic‐mediated CSCs asymmetric division and highlight the role of YY2 as a tumor suppressor and a therapeutic target in antitumor treatment.
Solvation–Reduction Coupling in Ca2+ Electroactivity in Glyme‐Based Electrolytes: A First Principles Study
Authors: Nguyen Long Hoang Bao , Filhol Jean‐Sébastien
Published: June 2023

The electrochemical activity of solvated Ca2+ in glyme‐based electrolytes is investigated using grand canonical density functional theory approach and Fukui functions. The obtained results reveal that the length of glyme molecules has little effect on the reduction potentials, but has significant impacts on the effective electron transfer process. In short chain glymes, the transferred electron is located on a Ca2+ center and the organic part of the solvation sphere, leading to a direct Ca2+ reduction and a partial degradation of the glyme molecules. As the glyme's length increases, the reduction process turns into the formation of solvated electrons rather than Ca2+ reduction, unless a partial desolvation occurs. Consequently, an effective Ca2+ reduction in long chain glyme‐based electrolytes is controlled by a (partial) desolvation of the solvation sphere. These results can be used as guiding information to design new electrolytes having the Ca2+ reduction potential in an accessible voltage range together with an effective Ca2+ reduction process. The methodology developed in this study can be universally applied to investigate the thermodynamic and kinetic properties of other battery systems using metal anodes, which might lead to a paradigm shift in the design of prospective electrolytes for future battery technologies.
Status of underutilized crop production: Its potentials for mitigating food insecurity
Authors: Adelabu Dolapo B. , Franke Angelinus C.
Published: June 2023

Globally, the gap between the production of nutritious quality crops and their consumption is widening, resulting in high rates of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Our goal is to examine the rich tapestry of studies on underutilized crops (UUCs) and consider their potential role in alleviating food and nutritional insecurity. Published research articles on UUC were retrieved from databases, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The key terms used were “UUC,” “neglected crops,” and lists of UUC, which were frequently cited in literature. A bibliometric innovative approach, such as reference co‐citation, co‐citation, and co‐word analysis, was used. We observed an annual growth rate of 6.4% in UUC research outputs with the number of annual publications increasing from less than 700 article publications in 2000–3000 article publications in 2021. It is also developing into a noticeably interdisciplinary research field with more collaborations and institutional affiliations. The most relevant affiliated countries in UUC‐related studies are developed and transition countries, such as the United States of America, China, India, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, and Germany. The pressing and emerging research studies in UUC‐related studies are genetic diversity and identification, agronomic knowledge, seed improvement, and environmental stresses. There is a shift in the focus of UUC studies, which provides a deeper understanding of the global trends and directions that have evolved in UUC studies over the past two decades. This result provides researchers and policymakers in the field of UUC with a useful tool for decision‐making on UUC.
Unmasking the challenges of Kabuki syndrome in adulthood: A case series
Authors: Priestley Jessica R. C. , Rippert Alyssa L. , Condit Courtney , Izumi Kosuke , Kallish Staci , Drivas Theodore G.
Published: June 2023

Kabuki syndrome is a recognizable Mendelian disorder characterized by the clinical constellation of childhood hypotonia, developmental delay or intellectual impairment, and characteristic dysmorphism resulting from monoallelic pathogenic variants in KMT2D or KDM6A. In the medical literature, most reported patients are children, and data is lacking on the natural history of the condition across the lifespan, with little known about adult‐specific presentations and symptoms. Here, we report the results of a retrospective chart review of eight adult patients with Kabuki syndrome, seven of whom are molecularly confirmed. We use their trajectories to highlight the diagnostic challenges unique to an adult population, expand on neurodevelopmental/psychiatric phenotypes across the lifespan, and describe adult‐onset medical complications, including a potential cancer risk and unusual and striking premature/accelerated aging phenotype.
Higher Flavor Symmetries in the Standard Model
Authors: Córdova Clay , Koren Seth
Published: June 2023

A study of the generalized global flavor symmetries of the Standard Model is initiated. The presence of nonzero triangle diagrams between the U(3)5 flavor currents and the hypercharge current intertwines them in the form of a higher‐group which mixes the zero‐form flavor symmetries with the one‐form magnetic hypercharge symmetry. This higher symmetry structure greatly restricts the possible flavor symmetries that may remain unbroken in any ultraviolet completion that includes magnetic monopoles. In the context of unification, this implies tight constraints on the combinations of fermion species which may be joined into multiplets. Three of four elementary possibilities are reflected in the classic unification models of Georgi–Glashow, , and Pati–Salam. The final pattern is realized non‐trivially in trinification, which exhibits the sense in which Standard Model Yukawa couplings which violate these flavor symmetries may be thought of as spurions of the higher‐group. Such modifications of the ultraviolet flavor symmetries are possible only if new vector‐like matter is introduced with masses suppressed from the unification scale by the Yukawa couplings.
Study on water absorption of hydrophobically modified ramie fiber and the reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Kang Feng , Han Hongchang , Wang Haifeng , He Dongtang , Zhou Ming
Published: June 2023

To study the effects of fiber surface hydrophobicity on water absorption of composites, ramie fiber was hydrophobically modified with polydopamine/octadecylamine and then used to reinforce polypropylene. The fiber modification was characterized by infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy spectrometry, contact angle, and water absorption. The mechanical properties and water absorption of the composites were also characterized. The results indicated that polydopamine/octadecylamine was successfully grafted onto the fiber surface. With the increase of octadecylamine concentration, the fiber surface became more and more hydrophobic, and its contact angle achieved a maximum of 118 ± 2.97° when octadecylamine concentration was 8 g/L. However, the modified fiber remained a high level of saturated water absorption of 6.53% ± 0.09%. For composites, when the octadecylamine concentration was 0.5 g/L, its water absorption showed the lowest value of 1.81% ± 0.09%. With more octadecylamine was grafted onto the fiber, the water absorption did not decrease continuously but showed a small growth peak. It is concluded that water absorption of composites is greatly affected by water absorption of fiber. The surface hydrophobic modification on fiber is beneficial to improve its surface hydrophobicity and inhibit the interfacial water absorption between fiber and matrix. However, it fails to the improve internal hydrophobicity of the fiber, nor does it inhibit the fiber in composites from absorbing water.
Status of the science instruments and their detector plans at the giant magellan telescope
Authors: Rahmer Gustavo A. , Millan‐Gabet Rafael
Published: June 2023

We present a description and status of the first‐generation science instruments for the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT), and the current plans for their scientific detectors. The first‐generation suite includes two visible (G‐CLEF and GMACS) and two infrared (GMTNIRS and GMTIFS) instruments, which will deliver data from wide‐band imaging to R 200,000 spectroscopy, with a combined spectral coverage from 300 nm to 5 m. All four instruments are designed for use with diffraction‐limited or ground‐layer adaptive optics modes. G‐CLEF is already in fabrication, while the other three are still in preliminary design. The first‐generation suite also includes a robotic fiber‐feed system called MANIFEST, which enables spectroscopy on objects anywhere in the 20 arcmin field of view of the telescope with custom fibers for G‐CLEF and GMACS. An additional facility instrument, GMagAO‐X, is being developed to provide high‐contrast imaging at visible and near‐infrared wavelengths. We also discuss the cameras that will be used for alignment, verification, and commissioning of the active and adaptive optics modes of the telescope and enable early science activities: ComCam and AOTC.
Decellularized periosteum promotes guided bone regeneration via manipulation of macrophage polarization
Authors: Li Jiayang , He Dongming , Hu Longwei , Li Siyi , Zhang Chenping , Yin Xuelai , Zhang Zhen
Published: June 2023

Periosteum has shown potential as an effective barrier membrane for guided bone regeneration (GBR). However, if recognized as a “foreign body,” insertion of a barrier membrane in GBR treatment will inevitably alter the local immune microenvironment and subsequently influence bone regeneration. The aim of this investigation was to fabricate decellularized periosteum (DP) and investigate its immunomodulatory properties in GBR. DP was successfully fabricated from periosteum from the mini‐pig cranium. In vitro experiments indicated that the DP scaffold modulated macrophage polarization toward a pro‐regenerative M2 phenotype, which in turn facilitated migration and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. A rat GBR model with a cranial critical‐size defect was established, and our in vivo experiment confirmed the beneficial effects of DP on the local immune microenvironment and bone regeneration. Collectively, the findings of this study indicate that the prepared DP possesses immunomodulatory properties and represents a promising barrier membrane for GBR procedures.
A bioengineered pseudovirus nanoparticle displaying SARS‐CoV 2 RBD fully protects mice from mortality and weight loss caused by SARS‐CoV 2 challenge
Authors: Xia Ming , López Krisangel , Vago Frank S. , Huang Pengwei , Auguste Dawn I. , Jiang Wen , Auguste Albert J. , Tan Ming
Published: June 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has caused considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although authorized COVID‐19 vaccines have been shown highly effective, their significantly lower efficacy against heterologous variants, and the rapid decrease of vaccine‐elicited immunity raises serious concerns, calling for improved vaccine tactics. To this end, a pseudovirus nanoparticle (PVNP) displaying the receptor binding domains (RBDs) of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike, named S‐RBD, was generated and shown it as a promising COVID‐19 vaccine candidate. The S‐RBD PVNP was produced using both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. A 3D structural model of the S‐RBD PVNPs was built based on the known structures of the S60 particle and RBDs, revealing an S60 particle‐based icosahedral symmetry with multiple surface‐displayed RBDs that retain authentic conformations and receptor‐binding functions. The PVNP is highly immunogenic, eliciting high titers of RBD‐specific IgG and neutralizing antibodies in mice. The S‐RBD PVNP demonstrated exceptional protective efficacy, and fully (100%) protected K18‐hACE2 mice from mortality and weight loss after a lethal SARS‐CoV‐2 challenge, supporting the S‐RBD PVNPs as a potent COVID‐19 vaccine candidate. By contrast, a PVNP displaying the N‐terminal domain (NTD) of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike exhibited only 50% protective efficacy. Since the RBD antigens of our PVNP vaccine are adjustable as needed to address the emergence of future variants, and various S‐RBD PVNPs can be combined as a cocktail vaccine for broad efficacy, these non‐replicating PVNPs offer a flexible platform for a safe, effective COVID‐19 vaccine with minimal manufacturing cost and time.
Comparison of traditional essay questions versus case based modified essay questions in biochemistry
Authors: Bansal Aastha , Dubey Abhishek , Singh Vijay Kumar , Goswami Binita , Kaushik Smita
Published: June 2023

Adult learning involves the analysis and synthesis of knowledge to become competent, which cannot be assessed only by traditional assessment tool and didactic learning methods. Stimulation of higher domains of cognitive learning needs to be inculcated to reach a better understanding of the subject rather than traditional assessment tools that relies primarily on rote learning. So, there is need for an alternative assessment tool. Hence, we conducted a study where we used case‐based examination methodology. This study was conducted on 226 Ist year MBBS students in Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi (India). Based on their compiled internal assessment marks according to monthly formative assessment, students were categorized into 3 groups (I: 0–7; II: 8–14; III: 15–20) marks out of 20 marks respectively. Two sets of question papers were set by three examiners, on the same topics carrying 50 marks each. The first set was based on traditional assessment tool (Paper‐A) with recall questions and second set on case‐based assessment method (Paper‐B). Out of 226 students, 146 were males and 80 were females. For all groups, marks (mean ± SD) in Paper B were found to be higher (18.40 ± 4.29, 30.01 ± 4.12, and 40.33 ± 1.15) as compared to paper A (10.88 ± 4.34, 21.96 ± 7.34, and 31.50 ± 6.94) respectively. However, we found that there was significant (p < 0.001) difference in group I & II, whereas with group III, difference was found to be insignificant. Hence, we concluded that students performed better in case‐based assessment rather than traditional method due to their direct involvement. Thus, for better memory and deeper learning the subjects can be assessed by case‐based assessment method.
New Benzopyrrole Derivatives: Synthesis and Appraisal of Their Potential as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Nandurkar Deweshri , Menghani Sunil , Danao Kishor , Rokde Vijayshri , Rarokar Nilesh , Khedekar Pramod , Mana Supriya
Published: June 2023

A series of twenty compounds (23–42) were synthesized and characterized by spectral studies in order to explore newer antimicrobial compounds. The majority of the synthesized compounds reported significant antimicrobial properties against various pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains with the help of tube dilution method. Significant activities (MIC ranging from 3.9 to 15.62 μg/ml) have been shown against Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria with. In contrast, moderate to outstanding antibacterial activity was reported versus Gram‐negative bacteria such as E. coli and P. aeruginosa along with Gram‐positive bacteria such as S. aureus and B. subtilis. While antifungal activity was moderate to excellent against two fungus strains (Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata). Compounds 25 and 34 had the utmost activity versus Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria too. The antifungal activity of compound 35 was comparable to that of standard. In‐silico Molecular docking evaluations were performed for antibacterial and antifungal activities against the target DNA gyrase A (PDB: 1AB4) and 14 alpha‐sterol demethylase enzyme (PDB: 1EA1), respectively. The dock score for typicals compounds for antibacterial and antifungal activity were −4.733 and −9.4, respectively. The three‐dimensional QSAR examination was carried out by multiple linear regression (SA‐MLR) with good predictive power (r2=0.9105, q2=0.8011). Establishment of several interactions between the ligand 25 and 34 and the active site of residue of both receptors, enable the ligand 25 and 34 to be fit well in the pocket of the active site, as seen in Molecular dynamics simulations analysis. Thus, data suggest that these ligands could be further explored as potential precursors to develop antimicrobial drugs.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of dyevert™ Power XT in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention procedures in Spain
Authors: López‐Mínguez Jose R. , Martín de Francisco A. L. , Soler M. J. , Hernández Felipe , Moreno Raul , Pinar Eduardo , Sampedro A. , Mareque M. , Oyagüez I.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To assess the efficiency of Dyevert™ Power XT compared to the standard clinical practice when used for percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI).

Methods

A Markov model was developed to estimate, over 3‐month cycles and a lifetime time horizon, the cumulative costs and health outcomes (life years gained [LYG] and quality‐adjusted life years [QALY]) in a hypothetical cohort of 1,000 patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) 3b‐4 and an average age of 72 years. The incidence of contrast‐induced acute kidney injury for these patients is 18.89% in routine practice and 7.78% with Dyevert. QALYs were estimated by applying utilities by health state. Transitions between states and utilities were obtained from the literature. Overall all‐cause and state‐specific mortality were considered. The total cost (€2,022) estimated with the National Health System perspective included cost of the procedure and of CKD management. The parameters were validated by a panel of experts. A discount rate (3% per year) was applied to costs and outcomes.

Results

The use of Dyevert yielded more health benefits (34.60 LYG and 5.69 QALYs) compared to the current standard practice (33.11 LYG and 5.38 QALYs). Lifetime cost accumulated at the end of the simulation resulted €30,211/patient with Dyevert and €33,895/patient with current standard clinical practice.

Conclusions

The use of Dyevert™ Power XT resulted dominant option, due to its higher effectiveness and lower cost as compared to standard clinical practice and, therefore, a preferred option in patients with CKD stages 3b‐4 undergoing PCI in Spain.
Acute obstructive fungus ball pyelonephritis with Candida parapsilosis: A case report
Authors: Radinasoa Rajo Païdia , Andrianiaina Armel Mamihaja , Randriamamizoly Haingotiana , Andrianarivony Luck Franscisca Adrien , Randriamarotia Harilalaina Willy Franck , Vololontiana Hanta Marie Danielle
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Fungal lithiasis is a rare but serious complication of candiduria. Frequent use of broad‐spectrum antibiotics is a contributing factor in predisposed subjects. Two CBEUs are required to confirm the diagnosis of candiduria. Anti‐fungal is found effective to eradicate the fungus ball besides surgery.

Lithiasis by fungus ball is a serious complication of candiduria. Our case was a 58‐year‐old man who presented an acute obstructive pyelonephritis. Ultrasound revealed a left ureteral lithiasis. Biological examination revealed Candida parapsilosis. Antifungal was effective with good evolution. Broad‐spectrum antibiotic therapy is one favoring factor.
A clinical case of identical twins with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, primary empty sella syndrome and identified rare CHD7 gene variant
Authors: Petrov Sava , Babadzhanova Ekaterina , Orbetzova Maria , Ivanov Hristo
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Empty sella syndrome is a complex syndrome with a diverse clinical presentation. The combination with functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is a real challenge for the clinician. Mutations in the CHD7 gene could be a possible, yet unproven, cause of “empty sella” syndrome. Patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism should be examined for possible CHD7 mutations, even if they do not have any CHARGE syndrome characteristics.

Empty sella is an anatomo‐radiological finding characterized by arachnoid herniation into the sellar fossa with reduction of pituitary volume and/or pituitary stalk compression). We report a clinical case of 35‐year‐old identical male twins, admitted to the clinic of endocrinology and metabolic diseases with history of infertility, hormonal constellation of hyposomatotropism and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. The patients presented with hyposmia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the hypothalamic–pituitary region revealed the presence of partial empty sella. CHD7 gene variant was observed on genetic testing. CHD7 gene mutation was considered as a possible reason for the presence of central hypogonadism and yet unproven genetic cause of “empty sella” syndrome.
Papillary squamotransitional cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix: A rare case report
Authors: Arab Maliheh , Pirastehfar Zanbagh , Afshar Moghaddam Noushin , Raoufi Masoomeh
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Although papillary squamotransitional cell carcinoma is an uncommon variant of cervical squamous cell carcinoma, due to the complex papillary structure and the challenge in detecting stromal invasion, its timely diagnosis and treatment are very important.

Papillary squamotransitional cell carcinoma (PSTCC) is extremely rare and presents with a spectrum of morphologies. PSTCC may present as an in situ tumor with or without an invasion, but usually, it displays both features. Here we report a 60‐year‐old woman, diagnosed with PSTCC of the uterine cervix.