bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation Mean Analysis in Physio-morphic Traits of Aerobic Rice in Assam, India
Authors: Ojah Hrishikesh , Talukdar P. , Phukan Rumjhum , Sarma D. , Bhuyan Nabajyoti , Zaman Shazmira
Published: November 2024

An experiment was carried out to study the genetic architecture of few physio-morphic quantitative traits of rice under aerobic condition. Generation mean analysis was carried out in three selected crosses viz.Banglami/Luit, Koimurali/Luit and Guni/Gopinath, involving six generations (P­1, P2, F1, F2, BC1 and BC2) at the experimental farm of SCS college of Agriculture, Assam Agricultural University, Dhubri, Assam, India during 2017 and 2018. The individual scaling tests were used to test the adequacy of additive dominance model. The gene effects were estimated using three parameter models (joint scaling test) suggested by Cavalli (1952) and six parameter model suggested by Haymen (1958). The analysis of variance among different generations of different crosses revealed significant variation for most of the characters indicating considerable variability in the material studied. All the characters except height growth rate in cross II, recorded significance for at least one of the four individual scaling tests in all the 3 crosses. Estimation of different gene effects and their interactions were done in OPSTAT software. Significant positive additive effects were recorded for plant height and height growth rate for in all the three crosses. Preponderance of dominance effect in the expression of height growth rate, spikelet fertility, grain yield, harvest index, root weight and root shoot ratio was evident from the significant positive dominance (h) effect in all the three crosses. With respect to interaction effects, all the characters except height growth rate in cross II, exhibited significant interaction effect for one or more epistatic interactions i.e.[i], [j] or [l] in all the three crosses studied. It is evident that for all the yield and other adaptive traits, additive, dominance and interaction effects were present indicating the complex inheritance of the traits under aerobic condition. Hence, focus should be on improving individual characters separately based on the nature of gene action.
Management of Stemphylium Blight Disease Caused by Stemphylium vesicarium in Onion through Different Methodology
Authors: Pandey Manoj Kumar , Singh Rudra Pratap
Published: November 2024

A field experiments was conducted at NHRDF, Regional Research Station, Nashik in two consecutive years during rabi 2022-23 and 2023-24 on onion for the management of stemphylium blight disease through different methodology like alteration in transplanting dates, chemical and bio-pesticides management as well as screening of stemphylium tolerant variety. In case of alteration in transplanting dates that the lowest intensity (9.83%) of stemphylium blight and highest yield (391.83 q/ha) was recorded on 3rd week of December. In case of chemical fungicides with bio pesticides the lowest stemphylium blight disease intensity (7.27%) as well as highest yield (399.17 q/ha) was recorded in treatment T4 (Tebuconazole50% + Trifloxystrobin 25% WG @ 0.15% at 45, 60 and 75 DAT while, in case of varietal screening the lowest intensity (10.93%) of stemphylium blight as well as highest gross yield (397.00 q/ha) with marketable (383.83 q/ha) was recorded in variety NHRDF Red-4.
Seasonal Variation of Physicochemical Properties in the Lower River Benue, Nigeria
Authors: Adamu Aliyu Bature , Torsabo Donald , Abubakar Kotos Abdulrahaman , Ali Ja’afaru
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the impact of seasonal changes on water quality in the River Benue, Nigeria. Conducted over eighteen months from January 2020 to June 2021, the research focuses on three locations: Ibi, Lau, and Mayo-Ranewo. Key physicochemical parameters such as temperature, pH, turbidity, conductivity, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), hardness, dissolved oxygen (DO), fluoride, and nitrate were measured to assess water quality. The findings reveal significant seasonal variations in these parameters, influenced by rainfall patterns, land use, and anthropogenic activities. Temperature ranged from 25.56°C to 30.70°C, remaining within acceptable limits for tropical waters, supporting stable biological processes. However, turbidity levels exceeded recommended values, indicating the presence of suspended solids that could impair water quality and harm aquatic life. Total dissolved solids (TDS) and conductivity showed potential contamination risks, likely due to agricultural runoff and urban discharges. Dissolved oxygen (DO) levels were generally adequate, especially during the wet season, enhancing oxygen content through increased photosynthetic activity and water inflows. However, BOD spiked with rainfall, signalling organic pollution and potential eutrophication risks. Seasonal shifts in pH and water hardness reflected changes in runoff and photosynthesis, with values largely within acceptable ranges for aquatic life. Fluoride and nitrate concentrations increased in the wet season, primarily due to agricultural runoff, highlighting the influence of land-based activities on water quality.
Abnormal AFI and Its Implications on Fetomaternal Outcome
Authors: Shah Babita , Siddiqui Saharoj , Shah Vijay Kumar , Yasamin Heena , Sah Bibek Kumar
Published: November 2024

Background: The AFI is directly associated with adverse outcomes for both the mother and the foetus; oligohydramnios (AFI ≤8 cm) and polyhydramnios (AFI ≥25 cm) are considered ‘abnormal’. The aim of this study was to compare the maternal and foetal complications in full-term pregnancies with abnormal AFI, as well as to assess the effectiveness of ultrasound and Doppler in identifying possible threats that may affect delivery plans.
Methods: The current observational study was conducted in a hospital context at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital located in Kathmandu, Nepal between October 2019 and February 2020. This study investigates the maternal and fetal outcomes associated with polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios in 60 cases of pregnancy. Data on maternal and foetal results, including the type of birth, problems, and neonatal APGAR ratings, were collected and evaluated. Continuous variables were described as mean ± SD, while categorical data were expressed in percentage.
Results: The prevalence of polyhydramnios was 2% and oligohydramnios was 5.33%. Common maternal complications included preeclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, and gestational hypertension, while fetal outcomes included low APGAR scores, low birth weight, and NICU admissions. Oligohydramnios was found to be predominantly associated with post-term pregnancies (36.36%) and preterm premature rupture of membranes (13.63%), which led to a higher frequency of caesarean sections (70.46%) when compared to polyhydramnios cases.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that ultrasound and Doppler assessments are crucial in identifying high-risk pregnancies and making appropriate delivery decisions to improve maternal and fetal outcomes."
Assessment of Microbial Contamination and Bacterial Characterization in Ready-to-Eat Fruits from Port Harcourt Markets, Nigeria
Authors: Sornka Doneh Linda , Enoch Amala Smart , Azuonwu  , Ollor Ollor Amba
Published: November 2024

Food safety is critical in preventing foodborne illnesses, particularly in regions where regulatory oversight may be inconsistent. This study aimed to assess the microbial contamination and characterize bacteria found in whole and sliced ready-to-eat (RTE) fruits sold in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The study area of this research was in Port Harcourt, the capital and largest city in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study employed a simple random sampling technique, and the methodology involved collecting 30 samples of apples, cucumbers, oranges, pawpaws, and watermelons from six markets: Fruit Garden Market, Mile 1 Market, Mile 3 Market, Oil Mill Market, Rumuokoro Market, and Town Market. Samples were analyzed using standard microbiological techniques, including total heterotrophic bacterial count (THBC) and total coliform count (TCC). Serial dilutions and culturing were performed, and the isolates were identified through morphological and biochemical tests. Results indicated that coliforms such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp and Enterobacter spp were isolated, and the THBC varied significantly among the markets, with the highest contamination observed in Mile 3 Market (9.50 × 10⁴ CFU/ml) and the lowest in Town Market (7.27 × 10⁴ CFU/ml). TCC results showed the highest coliform contamination in Rumuokoro Market (5.16 × 10³ CFU/ml), likely influenced by proximity to unsanitary water sources. Watermelon had the highest contamination levels for both THBC and TCC, while cucumber showed the lowest. Variations in contamination levels were attributed to environmental factors, inadequate handling practices, and hygiene standards. The study concluded that RTE fruits sold in Port Harcourt pose significant health risks due to microbial contamination levels exceeding recommended safety thresholds. It emphasized the importance of stringent hygiene practices among vendors and better regulatory measures to prevent outbreaks. Recommendations include improved food safety training for vendors, stricter sanitation practices during handling and transportation, and regular monitoring by health authorities to ensure compliance with safety standards. Therefore, the study highlights health risks in consuming ready-to-eat fruits, supporting food safety improvements to reduce foodborne illnesses in Port Harcourt.
Linezolid-induced Sideroblastic Anaemia: A Reversible but Overlooked Adverse Effect
Authors: Shah Miet D. , Kshirsagar Shrinath , Sankhe Samiksha , Varawala Taher , Jadhav Manaswi , Gill Niharika
Published: November 2024

With the ever-evolving guidelines and changing drug regimens for tuberculosis (TB), it is paramount for treating physicians to understand the efficacy and safety profiles of the drugs being used. Linezolid is included in the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB.
A 60 year old man with MDR TB was managed with oral AKT (anti-Kochs therapy) drugs including linezolid. Six months after starting the therapy, he presented with complaints of giddiness, dyspnea on exertion and easy fatiguability. Investigations revealed severe anemia, thrombocytopenia, reticulocytopenia, leukopenia, normal liver and renal function. With Linezolid induced pancytopenia being one of the major differentials, AKT containing Linezolid was discontinued immediately. The patient was initiated on appropriate supportive care, including blood transfusions and alternative antibiotic therapy. Over the subsequent weeks, the patient's symptoms improved, and his hemoglobin levels gradually returned to the normal range.
Clinicians are habituated to treating Gram-positive infections with short courses of linezolid. This should be avoided especially in a country like India where tuberculosis burden is very high, as linezolid is an essential part of treatment of MDR TB. Regular and planned monitoring for side effects is required when linezolid is used at higher doses and longer durations, such as for the management of Tuberculosis. Further research is warranted to elucidate the pathogenesis of linezolid-induced sideroblastic anemia and identify potential risk factors for its development.
Different endovascular solutions for short, wide and conic shaped neck
Authors:   Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Cardiovacsular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye, Ozcelik Sinan , Gevrek Murat ,   Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye, Unal Mehmet Ali ,   Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Cardiovacsular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye, Karadeniz Baran ,   Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Cardiovacsular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye, Alili Altay ,   Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Cardiovacsular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye, Tumer Naim Boran ,   Ankara City Hospital, Clinic of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye, Iscan Hakki Zafer ,   Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ankara, Türkiye
Published: November 2024

Hostile neck anatomy is the most important issue in prediction of outcomes of endovascular procedures. Surgeon modified fenestrated stent graft (SMFSG) may be an effective and available solution in proper patients by changing the proximal sealing of EVAR to the abdominal visceral aorta. Here we present two frail, comorbid, symptomatic infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (iAAA) cases with reverse tapered wide necks treated with different endovascular techniques.
Candida associated infra-inguinal prosthetic vascular graft infection: A case report
Authors:   Ağrı Training and Research Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ağrı, Türkiye, Kaya Ahmet Deniz , Metin Kaya Esma Nur ,   Ağrı Training and Research Hospital, Department of Anesthesia and Reanimation, Ağrı, Türkiye, Alur Ihsan ,   Private Egekent Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Denizli, Türkiye
Published: November 2024

Prosthetic vascular grafts (PVG) are artificial vascular materials used for revascularization in the treatment of vascular diseases. Due to increase in life expectancy, the number of individuals requiring PVGs is increasing and encountering the PVGI is also more frequent. We presented an interesting case operated because of infected graft in which Candida albicans grew. The patient had been operated twice for peripheral artery disease in another hospital before. We performed femoro-popliteal bypass by using great saphenous vein after removal of infected graft. In peripheric bypass surgery performed with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) graft, growth of Candida albicans in graft material is a rare condition and this situation has a high mortality rate. In the patients with comorbidities and who will undergo redo-surgery, excessive care should be given in terms of graft infections.
Predictive factors of extremity graft occlusion after endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm: A 13-year single center experience
Authors:   Ordu University Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ordu, Türkiye, Tayfur Kaptaniderya , Borulu Ferhat ,   Ordu University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ordu, Türkiye, Urkmez Melih ,   Ordu University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ordu, Türkiye, Telli Alpaslan ,   Ordu University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Ordu, Türkiye
Published: November 2024

Aim: Graft leg thrombosis (GLT) after Endovascular Aortic Repair (EVAR) is an important problem affecting morbidity/mortality. In addition to anatomical factors such as aortic neck angle and diameter in graft leg thrombosis; we aimed to convey the roles of graft extension to the external iliac artery and the effect of graft type selection on the results. Material and Methods: Analysis of 512 patients who underwent EVAR between 2010 and 2023 was performed. The effects of anatomical factors, graft material, underlying diseases, age and gender on the development of graft leg thrombosis were evaluated. Anatomical measurements were evaluated in terms of their predictive power for graft leg thrombosis by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results: The prevalence of graft leg occlusion was significantly associated with some anatomical factors, especially increased aortic neck angle (OR=1.07, p<0.001) and descent to the external iliac artery (OR=13.43, p<0.001). Poliytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts were associated with a reduced risk of graft leg occlusion (OR=0.26, p=0.002). ROC analysis showed that aortic neck angle had the highest predictive accuracy for GLT (AUC=0.817, p<0.001). There were no significant differences in age, gender, smoking status, diabetes, and hypertension as comorbidities. Peripheral artery disease was shown to increase the risk. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the role of aortic anatomy and graft material selection in the risk of graft leg thrombosis. The use of PTFE grafts appears to be protective against graft leg thrombosis. This information highlights the importance of personalized surgical planning and postoperative management to optimize patient outcomes. Future research should focus on developing models that include these factors.
Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles for Imaging, Cell Activity Regulation, and Therapy
Authors: Wang Yunxia , Feng Liheng , Wang Shu
Published: November 2018

Conjugated polymer nanoparticles, considered as a class of promising nanomaterials for biomedical application, are extensively employed in bioimaging, anti‐microorganism and antitumor, gene and drug delivery/release in the past decade. By virtue of unique photoelectric properties, such as strong light absorbing quality, high brightness, good photostability, tunable spectra property, and favorable compatibility, conjugated polymer nanoparticles attract increasing attention and are used in more emerging aspects in biological and biomedical fields. This review summarizes the recent (2014–2018) development of conjugated polymer nanoparticles, including design, synthesis, and biomedical applications. Especially, their abilities of bioimaging, cell activity regulation, anti‐microorganism and antitumor therapy are discussed in detail. Finally, the challenges and outlooks in the field are highlighted.
The Human In Vivo Biomolecule Corona onto PEGylated Liposomes: A Proof‐of‐Concept Clinical Study
Authors: Hadjidemetriou Marilena , McAdam Sarah , Garner Grace , Thackeray Chelsey , Knight David , Smith Duncan , Al‐Ahmady Zahraa , Mazza Mariarosa , Rogan Jane , Clamp Andrew , Kostarelos Kostas
Published: November 2018

The self‐assembled layered adsorption of proteins onto nanoparticle (NP) surfaces, once in contact with biological fluids, is termed the “protein corona” and it is gradually seen as a determinant factor for the overall biological behavior of NPs. Here, the previously unreported in vivo protein corona formed in human systemic circulation is described. The human‐derived protein corona formed onto PEGylated doxorubicin‐encapsulated liposomes (Caelyx) is thoroughly characterized following the recovery of liposomes from the blood circulation of ovarian carcinoma patients. In agreement with previous investigations in mice, the in vivo corona is found to be molecularly richer in comparison to its counterpart ex vivo corona. The intravenously infused liposomes are able to scavenge the blood pool and surface‐capture low‐molecular‐weight, low‐abundance plasma proteins that cannot be detected by conventional plasma proteomic analysis. This study describes the previously elusive or postulated formation of protein corona around nanoparticles in vivo in humans and illustrates that it can potentially be used as a novel tool to analyze the blood circulation proteome.
Room‐Temperature Ferromagnetic Insulating State in Cation‐Ordered Double‐Perovskite Sr2Fe1+xRe1−xO6Films
Authors: Sohn Changhee , Skoropata Elizabeth , Choi Yongseong , Gao Xiang , Rastogi Ankur , Huon Amanda , McGuire Michael A. , Nuckols Lauren , Zhang Yanwen , Freeland John W. , Haskel Daniel , Lee Ho Nyung
Published: November 2018

Ferromagnetic insulators (FMIs) are one of the most important components in developing dissipationless electronic and spintronic devices. However, FMIs are innately rare to find in nature as ferromagnetism generally accompanies metallicity. Here, novel room‐temperature FMI films that are epitaxially synthesized by deliberate control of the ratio between two B‐site cations in the double perovskite Sr2Fe1+xRe1‐xO6 (−0.2 ≤ x ≤ 0.2) are reported. In contrast to the known FM metallic phase in stoichiometric Sr2FeReO6, an FMI state with a high Curie temperature (Tc ≈ 400 K) and a large saturation magnetization (MS ≈ 1.8 µB f.u.−1) is found in highly cation‐ordered Fe‐rich phases. The stabilization of the FMI state is attributed to the formation of extra Fe3+Fe3+ and Fe3+Re6+ bonding states, which originate from the relatively excess Fe ions owing to the deficiency in Re ions. The emerging FMI state created by controlling cations in the oxide double perovskites opens the door to developing novel oxide quantum materials and spintronic devices.
Human–Machine Interfacing Enabled by Triboelectric Nanogenerators and Tribotronics
Authors: Ding Wenbo , Wang Aurelia C. , Wu Changsheng , Guo Hengyu , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: November 2018

With the advances of artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous robotics, virtual reality (VR) and Internet of things (IoT), an intelligent and ubiquitous human–machine interfacing (HMI) ecosystem has become a desire and attracted lots of interests. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG), as a natural and effective mechanical‐to‐electrical signal conversion technology, have been successfully utilized to realize many types of HMI, including smart keyboards, body motion sensors, the electronic skin, voice sensors, the triboelectrification‐induced electroluminescence, and the artificial muscle. Meanwhile, tribotronics, as the coupling field of TENG and semiconductors, has demonstrated the feasibility for tactile switch or sensing with the possibilities of high integration and large scale. The fundamental theory of TENG and tribotronics is revisited herein. In addition, the definition of HMI and, for the first time, the research progress of the TENG and tribotronics enabled HMI are systematically and thoroughly reviewed. Finally, the perspectives in this emerging field are also discussed.
The Charge Storage Mechanisms of 2D Cation‐Intercalated Manganese Oxide in Different Electrolytes
Authors: Zhang Qingnuan , Levi Mikhael D. , Dou Qingyun , Lu Yulan , Chai Yinguang , Lei Shulai , Ji Hengxing , Liu Bao , Bu Xudong , Ma Pengjun , Yan Xingbin
Published: November 2018

2D ion‐intercalated metal oxides are emerging promising new electrodes for supercapacitors because of their unique layered structure as well as distinctive electronic properties. To facilitate their application, fundamental study of the charge storage mechanism is required. Herein, it is demonstrated that the application of in situ Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (EQCM‐D), provides a sufficient basis to elucidate the charge storage mechanism in a typical 2D cation‐intercalated manganese oxide (Na0.55Mn2O4·1.5H2O, abbreviated as NMO) in neutral and alkaline aqueous electrolytes. The results reveal that in neutral Na2SO4 electrolytes, NMO mainly displays a surface‐controlled pseudocapacitive behavior in the low potential region (0–0.8 V), but when the potential is higher than 0.8 V, an intercalation pseudocapacitive behavior becomes dominant. By contrast, NMO shows a battery‐like behavior associated with OH− ions in alkaline NaOH electrolyte. This study verifies that the charge storage mechanism of NMO strongly depends on the type of electrolyte, and even in the same electrolyte, different charging behaviors are revealed in different potential ranges which should be carefully taken into account when optimizing the use of the electrode materials in practical energy‐storage devices.
Long‐term improvement in cardiac magnetic resonance in β‐thalassemia major patients treated with deferasirox extends to patients with abnormal baseline cardiac function
Authors: Casale Maddalena , Filosa Aldo , Ragozzino Alfonso , Amendola Giovanni , Roberti Domenico , Tartaglione Immacolata , De Michele Elisa , Cozzolino Domenico , Rispoli Giuliana , Palmieri Francesco , Pugliese Umberto , Scianguetta Saverio , Signoriello Giuseppe , Musallam Khaled M. , Perrotta Silverio
Published: November 2018

The management of iron overload in thalassemia has changed dramatically since the implementation of magnetic resonance imaging, which allows detection of preclinical iron overload and prevention of clinical complications. This study evaluated the effect of deferasirox (DFX), the newest once‐daily oral chelator, on cardiac function, iron overload and cardiovascular events over a longer follow up in a “real world” setting. Longitudinal changes in cardiac magnetic resonance T2*, cardiac function parameters and cardiovascular clinical events were assessed in a cohort of 98 TM patients exposed to DFX for a mean of 6.9 years (range 1.8‐11.6 years). No cardiac death or incident heart failure occurred. Cardiac T2* significantly increased (+2.6 ± 11.9 msec; P = 0.035) in the whole population, with a significantly greater increase (+11.6 ± 15.5 msec, P = 0.019) in patients with cardiac iron overload (T2* <20 ms). A significant improvement in left‐ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (from 50.6 ± 6 to 60.2 ± 5; P = 0.001) was observed in 11 (84.6%) out of 13 patients who normalized cardiac function (LVEF >56%). Arrhythmias were the most frequent cardiac adverse event noted but none led to DFX discontinuation. Our data indicate that DFX is effective in maintaining cardiac iron level in the normal range and in improving cardiac iron overload. No heart failure or cardiac death was reported over this longer observation up to 12 years. For the first time, a DFX‐induced improvement in LVEF was observed in a subgroup of patients with abnormal cardiac function at baseline, a preliminary observation which deserves further evaluation.
Carbonylative Suzuki coupling and alkoxycarbonylation of aryl halides using palladium supported on phosphorus‐doped porous organic polymer as an active and robust catalyst
Authors: Wan Yali , Song Fangxiang , Ye Tao , Li Guangxing , Liu Dingfu , Lei Yizhu
Published: November 2018

Developing highly active catalysts with the combined advantages of molecular and solid catalysis is considered as the “Holy Grail” in the area of catalysis research. Herein, a phosphorus‐doped porous polymer‐immobilized palladium was successfully developed as an efficient, robust, and recyclable catalyst for the carbonylative Suzuki coupling and alkoxycarbonylation reactions of aryl halides. Rather than just as an immobilizing molecular catalyst, palladium supported on phosphorus‐doped porous organic polymer exhibits even better catalytic performances than that of its analogue homogeneous catalysts in both carbonylation reactions. Moreover, the catalyst can be easily separated and reused for at least 5 times without significant loss in reactivity. Importantly, the catalyst was highly stable under carbonylation reaction conditions, and no palladium nanoparticle was observed even after the 5th reuse.
Hydroelectric Energy: Sustainable and Economical Solutions for Water Systems
Authors: Morgan Nicholas , Kirven Kelly , Parker Michael
Published: November 2018

Water utilities might want to consider using hydroelectric power to compensate for increased infrastructure costs and financial shortfalls resulting from decreased demand.
Dietary ursolic acid improves health span and life span in male Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Staats Stefanie , Wagner Anika E. , Lüersen Kai , Künstner Axel , Meyer Timo , Kahns Anna K. , Derer Stefanie , Graspeuntner Simon , Rupp Jan , Busch Hauke , Sina Christian , Ipharraguerre Ignacio R. , Rimbach Gerald
Published: November 2018

The health and life span of Drosophila melanogaster are partly determined by intestinal barrier integrity, metabolic rate as well as stress response and the expression of longevity‐associated genes, depending on genetic and dietary factors. Ursolic acid (UA) is a naturally occurring triterpenoid exhibiting potential antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, and antiobesity activity and counteracting age‐related deficits in muscle strength. In this study, UA was dietarily administered to w1118 D. melanogaster which significantly elongated the health and life span of males. Spargel (srl) is the Drosophila orthologue of mammalian peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma coactivator 1 α(PGC1α), an important regulator of energy homeostasis and mitochondrial function. Our results indicate that the health‐promoting effect of UA, demonstrated by a significant increase in climbing activity, occurs via an upregulation of srl expression leading to a metabolic shift in the fly without reducing fecundity or gut integrity. Moreover, UA affected the flies' microbiota in a manner that contributed to life span extension. Srl expression and microbiota both seem to be affected by UA, as we determined by using srl‐mutant and axenic flies. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(2):169–186, 2019
Autoantibodies in HIV‐infected patients: Cross site‐specific hydrolysis of H1 histone and myelin basic protein
Authors: Baranova Svetlana V. , Dmitrienok Pavel S. , Buneva Valentina N. , Nevinsky Georgy A.
Published: November 2018

Histones act as damage‐associated molecules, while anti‐DNA antibodies are directed against histone‐DNA nucleosomal complexes. Myelin basic protein (MBP) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. Autoantibodies (Abs) with enzymatic activities are the distinctive feature of some autoimmune and viral diseases. Abzymes with proteolytic activity against different proteins specifically hydrolyze only these specific proteins. Using chromatography of IgGs on columns with immobilized H1 histone and then by chromatography of the fraction having an affinity for the histone (eluted upon loading) on MBP Sepharose, the anti‐MBP antibodies were obtained. Anti‐H1 antibodies were obtained using these columns in reverse order. IgGs against H1 and MBP effectively hydrolyze both H1 histone and MBP but no other control proteins. Using the MALDI mass spectrometry, the cleavage sites of H1 histone and MBP by abzymes against these proteins are found. The hydrolysis of MBP by anti‐MBP IgGs occurs at four clusters (22 sites of the hydrolysis) locating at four known antigenic determinants of MBP. Anti‐H1 Abs hydrolyze MBP only at one cluster (11 sites of the hydrolysis); this cluster is only partially overlapped with one of the four MBP clusters. Anti‐H1 antibodies hydrolyze H1 at five sites of one cluster of the protein when anti‐MBP IgGs cleavage this histone at two clusters containing 17 sites of the cleavage. Anti‐H1 and anti‐MBP abzymes are the first examples of Abs possessing not only with cross‐complexing but also with catalytic cross‐reactivity. The existence of cross‐reactivity of abzymes against histones and MBP represent great danger to humans. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(2):211–222, 2019
Clinical significance of glutamate metabotropic receptors in renal cell carcinoma risk and survival
Authors: Huang Chao‐Yuan , Hsueh Yu‐Mei , Chen Lih‐Chyang , Cheng Wei‐Chung , Yu Chia‐Cheng , Chen Wei‐Jen , Lu Te‐Ling , Lan Kuo‐Jin , Lee Cheng‐Hsueh , Huang Shu‐Pin , Bao Bo‐Ying
Published: November 2018

Accumulating evidence suggests the roles of glutamate metabotropic receptors (GRMs) in cancer, in addition to synaptic signalling. The present study assessed the associations of genetic variants in eight GRM genes with regard to risk and overall survival (OS) in 780 renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients and controls. After adjustment for known risk factors, GRM5 rs7102764 T was associated with an increased risk of RCC (P = 0.006). Additional analysis has provided evidence that rs7102764 T was correlated with a higher expression of GRM5, which is consistently found to be upregulated in tumours, compared to normal tissues. Furthermore, the GRM3 rs701332 C, GRM4 rs2499707 T, and GRM4 rs4713742 T alleles were significantly associated with a poorer OS (P ≤ 0.030). The three loci were also observed to have strong cumulative effects on OS. Additional analysis has revealed a significant genotype‐expression correlation of rs2499707 T with increased GRM4 expression, which in turn leads to poorer OS in patients with RCC. GRMs might be involved in RCC development and progression, and genetic variants in GRMs might be promising biomarkers.
Estimating effectiveness of school‐based counselling: Using data from controlled trials to predict improvement over non‐intervention change
Authors: Cooper Mick , Fugard Andrew J.B. , Pybis Jo , McArthur Katherine , Pearce Peter
Published: November 2018

Background

There is a growing body of data to show that participation in school‐based counselling is associated with significant reductions in psychological distress. However, this cannot be taken as evidence that school‐based counselling is effective, as improvements may have happened without the intervention.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to develop a method of estimating the amount of ‘natural’ change that might be expected in young people who would attend school‐based counselling, such that the effects of the intervention over and above this amount could be identified.

Method

Young Person's CORE (YP‐CORE) scores from 74 participants allocated to waiting list control conditions in four pilot trials of school‐based counselling in the UK were re‐analysed using regression models, and a formula was found for estimating the outcomes for young people were they not to receive counselling. This was termed their Estimated Non‐intervention Outcome (ENO), and could then be compared against the young person's Actual Outcome (AO), to give an estimated intervention effect (EIE).

Results

The formula for the ENO was 4.17 + 0.64 × baseline score. Using this, we calculated a mean EIE for 256 young people in a cohort evaluation study of school‐based counselling, which showed that the counselling was associated with large and significantly greater change than would be expected without the intervention (Cohen's d = 0.91).

Discussion

The method presented in this paper is a simple means for improving the accuracy of estimations of treatment effectiveness, helping to adjust for changes due to spontaneous recovery and other non‐treatment effects.
Using personality traits and attachment styles to predict people's preference of psychotherapeutic orientation
Authors: Petronzi Gregory J. , Masciale James N.
Published: November 2018

Aim

This study examined whether people's personality traits and attachment styles would predict their preference for one of three common psychotherapies (psychodynamic, person‐centred and cognitive‐behavioural therapy).

Method

An online survey was administered to participants (n = 209) for remuneration. Personality traits were measured using the HEXACO‐60; attachment was measured using the Relation‐ships Questionnaire; preference for psychotherapeutic orientation was assessed using the Preferences for Psychotherapy Approaches Scale.

Results

Regression analyses indicated that various personality traits and attachment styles predict preference of therapeutic orientation. Specifically, the data indicated that openness and secure attachment significantly predicted preference of psychodynamic psychotherapy. No personality traits or attachment styles significantly predicted person‐centred preference. Lastly, previous study of psychology and fearful attachment significantly predicted preference of cognitive‐behavioural psychotherapy.

Conclusion

This study's findings provide supporting evidence for the claim that people's personality traits and attachment styles are predictive of their preferences for various psychotherapies. Implications for further research are discussed.
‘An outfield at a cricket game’: Integrating support provisions in counsellor education
Authors: Georgiadou Lorena , Willis Alette , Canavan Siobhan
Published: November 2018

Background

The demanding nature of counsellor education necessitates support provisions for trainees which promote learning and development. While clinical and academic supervision, as well as personal therapy, can be important sources of support and learning, they are targeted at specific aspects of the trainee experience.

Aim

In this study, we examine the need for additional provisions that are integrative, phronetic and, although related to core training, separate from it, allowing trainees to bring together theory, personal experience and practice in a safe space. We present a study investigating student and staff experiences of using a system of ‘Personal Tutorials’ designed to provide phronetic and integrative support, which is in operation at our institution. Our study sought to explore the ways in which students made use of this system and what helped or hindered them in using it integratively.

Methodology

Focus groups were conducted with students, core staff and Personal Tutors involved in this provision. Data were analysed following a reflective team‐based approach (Siltanen, Willis & Scobie, 2008).

Findings

Overall, trainees appreciated having a dedicated space to explore their learning with a nonassessing tutor and used this provision in a number of ways that advanced their personal and professional development.

Implications

An external Personal Tutor seems to be providing trainees with an additional phronetic source of support that balances individual and group learning and advances the overall training experience.
SCAI 2018 Think Tank Proceedings: “What skillsets are required of vascular interventional cardiologists in evaluating and managing critical limb ischemia (CLI)? What role should SCAI play in supporting interventional cardiologists in their CLI practices, individually and collectively?”
Authors: Hawkins Beau M. , Aronow Herbert D. , Parikh Sahil A. , Rosenfield Kenneth , Naidu Srihari S. ,   And the members of the SCAI 2018 Think Tank Consortium: Ellie Boutin, Fennel Brian , Fontenot Kristin , Nicolosi Mary , Tieche Christopher
Published: November 2018

The aim of this article is to discuss the poor outcomes associated with critical limb ischemia (CLI) and the required knowledge needed for optimal care. There is an opportunity for the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) to assist interventional cardiologists in enhancing CLI care through creation of training standards and development of educational content.
Oscillation Properties of Scalar Conservation Laws
Authors: Silvestre Luis
Published: November 2018

We obtain several new regularity results for solutions of scalar conservation laws satisfying the genuine nonlinearity condition. We prove that the solutions are continuous outside of the jump set, which is codimension one rectifiable. We show that the entropy dissipation vanishes away from the closure of the jump set. We prove that the solution decays algebraically inL∞ast → ∞, and we compute the presumably optimal decay rate. All these results are based on a local oscillation estimate that is obtained properly adapting some ideas of De Giorgi from the context of elliptic equations. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adeno‐Associated Virus Production, Purification, and Titering
Authors: Chen Yong Hong , Keiser Megan S. , Davidson Beverly L.
Published: November 2018

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vectors are exemplary tools for studying gene function in vivo and are particularly favorable for transferring genes of interest into brain tissues. They have shown great promise as a gene therapy vector for preclinical and clinical applications. However, the ability to use this tool is often hampered because the viruses themselves are not readily available. Many methods have been developed for AAV production. Here, we describe a simple method for small‐ to medium‐scale (1012‐1013 viral particles) production of AAV based on Polyethylenimine Max (PEI Max)–mediated triple transfection of HEK 293 cells and purification with iodixanol gradient ultracentrifugation. These methods will provide users with ample material of sufficient quality for performing in vivo gene transfer. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Accuracy of fine‐needle aspiration cytology of head and neck masses
Authors: Rammeh Soumaya , Romdhane Emna , Sassi Asma , Belhajkacem Linda , Blel Ahlem , Ksentini Meriem , Lahiani Rim , Farah Faten , Salah Mamia Ben , Ferjaoui Mohamed
Published: November 2018

Background

Head and neck masses are a common presentation in daily practice and can be challenging to both clinicians and cytopathologists. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a widely used method for the diagnosis of head and neck masses. The aim of the study was to assess our institutional experience of the accuracy of FNAC in the diagnosis of head and neck masses.

Methods

A total of 1262 FNACs were conducted from January 2013 to December 2016 and subdivided into benign and malignant categories. The thyroid and salivary glands FNACs were classified according to the Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid cytopathology and to the Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology respectively. The measures of diagnostic accuracy of FNAC were determined taking histology as a gold standard.

Results

A total of 7 false negative (FN) and 6 false positive (FP) FNACs were identified. Overall sensitivity and specificity of FNAC for a malignant diagnosis were 92% and 94.4%, respectively. Accuracy of FNACs of head and neck masses was 93.5% for all sites. The salivary gland group had the highest rate of FN (2.8%). All FP were reported in the thyroid group. These cases were cytologically classified suspicious for malignancy (n = 3) and papillary carcinoma (n = 3) and proved to be lymphocytic thyroiditis on final histology. Among the most common locations, cytology of lymph nodes provided the best sensitivity (98.2%). Salivary glands as well as lymph nodes had the best specificity (100%).

Conclusion

FNAC of head and neck masses has a high accuracy allowing a correct therapeutic management. However, this accuracy depends on the anatomic location of the mass.
Weight restoration in atypical anorexia nervosa: A clinical conundrum
Authors: Nagata Jason M. , Garber Andrea K. , Buckelew Sara M.
Published: November 2018

The determination of the treatment goal weight for adolescents with a restrictive eating disorder (ED) and a prior history of obesity, such as in atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN), represents an ongoing challenge for clinicians. This determination is particularly complex given competing interests of physical recovery from significant weight loss, mental recovery from ED psychopathology, and the medical comorbidities associated with obesity. We report the case of a 15‐year old female with a history of obesity and irregular periods who presented with significant weight loss and absence of menses for 3 months. She was hospitalized for severe malnutrition and bradycardia, initiated family based treatment, and regained periods. However, her vital sign instability and eating disorder cognitions did not resolve until she reached a weight at which point her periods again ceased due to polycystic ovary syndrome. This case highlights the need for regular monitoring during weight recovery and the clinical challenge of determining the treatment goal weight in adolescents with EDs and prior obesity.
Barriers to seeking treatment for eating disorders: The role of self‐recognition in understanding gender disparities in who seeks help
Authors: Grillot Charlotte L. , Keel Pamela K.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Previous research suggests that men with eating disorders are less likely to seek treatment than are women. Given stereotypes linked to eating disorders, men may be less likely to recognize when they have an eating disorder, which could act as a barrier to treatment‐seeking.

Method

The current study examined differences in self‐recognition and treatment‐seeking behavior by gender, controlling for other covariates, in participants with probable DSM‐5 eating disorders drawn from a larger community‐based sample.

Results

Being female and self‐recognition were both associated with increased likelihood of treatment‐seeking while accounting for other potential covariates, including race/ethnicity, age, BMI, and comorbid disorders.

Discussion

Results indicate that self‐recognition is a barrier to seeking treatment for both genders and does not account for help‐seeking differences between women and men. Findings have implications for interventions to address barriers to treatment‐seeking for eating disorders.
The ecological stoichiometry and interrelationship between litter and soil under seasonal snowfall in Tianshan Mountain
Authors: Chen Xin , Gong Lu , Liu Yutong
Published: November 2018

Changes in snow cover caused by global climate change will profoundly affect the process of litter decomposition and soil nutrient cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. The presence of seasonal snow cover during the winter has a significant impact on forest ecosystems. The goals of this study were to explore how seasonal snow cover modulates litter decomposition dynamics and elemental cycling in forest ecosystems, and to characterize the ecological stoichiometry of nutrients in the leaf litter and soils over time. Seasonal snowfall leads to different snow depths on the ground, especially when comparing forest gaps to closed canopy. Snow cover in this study was categorized as absent, thin, intermediate, and thick according to depth (n = 4 treatments). Leaf litter and underlying soils were sampled in plots from each category of snow cover over the course of multiple seasons (i.e., the freeze–thaw period, deep‐freeze period, thaw period, pre‐growth season, and late growth season). The carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus concentration of leaf litter and soils were determined at each stage. The litter decomposition rate and nutrient concentration were largely dependent on the thickness of the snowpack formed by seasonal snowfall. Overall, variability in the ecological stoichiometry of elements in the leaf litter and soils was small. However, in the leaf litter, carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus concentrations and their stoichiometric ratios differed across the snow cover gradient during the winter when snow was present, but not when snow was absent in the warmer months. Thicker snowpacks better maintained litter decomposition and kept nutrient levels stable. Furthermore, correlations between leaf litter and soil ecological stoichiometry were affected by seasonal snow cover, with element concentration also varying over time.
A passive microfluidic device for continuous microparticle enrichment
Authors: Fan Liang‐Liang , Zhu Xiao‐Liang , Yan Qing , Zhe Jiang , Zhao Liang
Published: November 2018

A passive microfluidic device is reported for continuous microparticle enrichment. The microparticle is enriched based on the inertial effect in a microchannel with contracting‐expanding structures on one side where microparticles/cells are subjected to the inertial lift force and the momentum‐change‐induced inertial force induced by highly curved streamlines. Under the combined effect of the two forces, yeast cells and microparticles of different sizes were continuously focused in the present device over a range of Reynolds numbers from 16.7 to 125. ∼68% of the particle‐free liquid was separated from the sample at Re = 66.7, and ∼18 μL particle‐free liquid was fast obtained within 10 s. Results also showed that the geometry of the contracting‐expanding structure significantly influenced the lateral migration of the particle. Structures with a large angle induced strong inertial effect and weak disturbance effect of vortex on the particle, both of which enhanced the microparticle enrichment in microchannel. With simple structure, small footprint (18 × 0.35 mm), easy operation and cell‐friendly property, the present device has great potential in biomedical applications, such as the enrichment of cells and the fast extraction of plasma from blood for disease diagnose and therapy.
Management of printed circuit boards by newly designed thermal pyrolytic process: Process optimization by RSM approach
Authors: Jayapradha A. , AbbasMohaideen J. , Senthil Kumar P. , Kavitha V. , Narendrakumar G.
Published: November 2018

The present research focuses on evaluating the kinetics for the liquefaction process and optimizing the process variable using Design expert software to maximize oil yield and by suppressing by‐products like gas and char. Optimum conditions for the maximum yield of oil (25.04%) was calculated as375°C, 45 min retention time, 3–5 mm particle size and at a constant heating rate of 15 °C min−1. Coats Redfern's approach showed maximum R2 of 0.9459 which requires less activation energy of 61.44 kJ kg−1 mol−1. The endothermic heat required for liquefaction was 20.91 MJ kg−1. The calorific value of oil was measured as 6.502 MJ kg−1. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 489–499, 2019