bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonographic findings in Hyperuricemia
Authors: Elmelegy Dalia Nader , El-Badry Amr Mohamed , Eldeeb Ali Eid , Elsaadany Hanan Mohamed
Published: August 2023

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound is a quick, inexpensive, non-invasive modality for early diagnosis of hyperuricemia and gout. US waves are more intensely reflected by crystalline material than by the tissues around it, which are found to be in the cartilage, synovial fluid, tendon sheaths, and subcutaneous tissue. Power Doppler Imaging is especially helpful for tiny vessels as well as those having low-velocity flow since it has the sensitivity for flow identification. The existence of double contour sign, aggregates, tophi and hyperechoic spots are more specific ultrasonographic findings for diagnosis of gout. Furthermore, Hyperuricemia was found to be linked with cardiovascular diseases which reflected as increase in the carotid artery intima thickness in addition to carotid artery plaque formation that can be easily detected by ultrasound helping in early cardiovascular diseases screening and management.
Physiological Seed Quality Responses of Three Rice Varieties to Different Storage Materials under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Aculey P. , Tandoh P. K. , Gamenyah D. D.
Published: August 2023

Rice is an important staple crop which provides essential dietary nutrients for the well being of humans but the seeds lose viability rapidly in storage before the next planting season. This study was conducted at the seed and pathology laboratories in CSIR-Crops Research Institute (Fumesua) to determine the physiological seed quality responses of three rice varieties to different storage materials under ambient conditions. The experiment was set up in 3x4 factorial arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications under ambient conditions. Factor one was variety of rice at three levels (Agra, Amankwatia and Jasmine) and factor two was packaging materials at four levels (plastic bucket, single-layered nylon sack, un-layered nylon sack and double-layered nylon sack). Moisture content, vigour, vigour index, germination percentage and health test were the major parameters determined before and after the experiment. Results indicated that all the varieties stored in the un–layered packaging materials recorded the highest moisture content of 13.2%. Rice seeds in single-layer nylon sack had the best germination percentage (98%), seed vigour (48.04) and vigour index (20689) whereas seeds stored in un-layered nylon sack had the least germination percentage (84%), vigour (37), and vigour index (13193). Un-layered packaging materials recorded the highest population of Sitophilus oryzae while plastic Bucket storage material recorded the least insect infestation. Twelve fungal pathogens were identified in total, of which nine were pathogenic and three saprophytic. The study concluded that to ensure good quality of rice seeds, rice seeds should be stored in single layered packaging materials for three month under ambient condition.
Analisis Semiotika pada Produk Kemasan Kaleng Kopi “Starbucks BPJS”
Authors: Prasetyo Martinus Eko , Everlyn Shierly , Yunita Yunita
Published: August 2023

Perkembangan teknologi menghadirkan banyak variasi desain dan kemasan produk di era persaingan global saat ini. Persaingan/kompetisi antar brand dengan produk sejenis memaksakan setiap brand harus memiliki cara yang tepat dalam memenangkan pasarnya masing-masing. Viralnya pemberitaan mengenai salah satu brand besar di Indonesia, yaitu kopi Starbucks yang mengeluarkan produk terbarunya dalam bentuk kemasan kaleng yang dijual di berbagai minimarket dan toko online, membuat banyak nitizen cukup antusias dan menamakan produk ini Starbucks "BPJS". Pengeluaran produk semacam ini merupakan salah satu langkah baru yang dilakukan Starbucks khususnya di Indonesia. Penulis tertarik untuk meneliti desain kemasan pada produk keluaran terbaru dari Starbucks dengan harga terjangkau ini karena brand Starbucks yang biasanya ada di harga yang terbilang kopi premium kini hadir sebagai produk kopi kalengan di minimarket. Penelitian ini akan berfokus pada analisis elemen desain pada kemasan kaleng kopi Starbucks dengan varian Mocha dan varian Espresso Latte. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mendapatkan informasi dari makna visual pada produk kemasan kedua kaleng varian tersebut. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif, dengan pendekatan semiotik dari Charles Sanders Peirce. Dengan hasil analisis secara representation, object, dan interpretant untuk mengetahui makna dan komunikasi pesan elemen-elemen visual pada desain kemasan kaleng kopi Starbucks.
Penerapan Design Thinking pada Perancangan Fitur Fleet Management dalam Website Transportation Management System Waresix
Authors: Darmawan Meliana Jesslyn , Sutanto Ryan Pratama
Published: August 2023

Indonesia sebagai negara kepulauan memiliki pulau sebanyak 17.504 pulau, dan perairan laut yang luasnya 71% dari keseluruhan wilayah Indonesia. Hal ini menimbulkan masalah bagi rantai pasokan Indonesia karena terkendala pada transportasi dan biaya logistik yang besar. Berangkat dari permasalahan tersebut, Waresix hadir untuk membantu meringankan biaya logistik yang efisien secara end-to-end. Waresix merupakan sebuah perusahaan startup di bidang teknologi logistik yang menyediakan solusi penyimpanan end-to-end yaitu mencakup transportasi hingga kebutuhan pergudangan. Saat ini Waresix sedang melakukan pengembangan produk bernama Transportation Management System (TMS) versi ketiga untuk memperbaiki kekurangan dari versi sebelumnya. Pada penelitian ini, salah satu fitur TMS yang akan dibahas adalah Fleet Management yang berfungsi untuk mengelola truk dan driver milik vendor. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana perbandingan teori design thinking dengan penerapannya selama mengerjakan fitur tersebut. Metode yang digunakan untuk melakukan penelitian ini adalah metode kualitatif komparasi dengan pendekatan kualitatif, serta menggunakan metode 5W+1H untuk menganalisis data. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah teori design thinking diterapkan selama pengerjaan fitur Fleet Management. Walaupun ada beberapa hal yang tidak dilakukan dalam tahapannya, tetapi tidak sampai mengganggu proses dari design thinking itu sendiri.
Buku Ensiklopedia Flora dan Fauna di Hutan Tropis Indonesia untuk Anak Usia 10-12 Tahun
Authors: Sanjaya Imanuel , Streit Aprilia Kartini
Published: August 2023

Flora dan fauna pada hutan  hujan tropis Indonesia sangat beragam dalam hayatinya, dan merupakan aset penting negara, bahkan merupakan aset penting dunia karena diperlukan manusia dan hewan untuk bernafas. Namun, sayangnya tidak banyak yang membahas mengenai hal ini, bahkan masyarakat banyak yang belum mengenal flora dan fauna di hutan  hujan tropis. Maka dari itu diperlukan media untuk mengenalkan kembali flora dan fauna pada habitat hutan  hujan tropis serta lingkungan agar anak-anak kita lebih mengenal kekayaan alam dan dapat lebih menjaga alam dan isinya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode analisis kualitatif berdasarkan data yang terkumpul melalui studi kasus, observasi serta kuesioner yang kemudian dijabarkan secara deskriptif. Media pengenalan dilakukan melalui buku ensiklopedia. Dengan terancangnya buku ensiklopedia ini, dapat menambahkan wawasan, pengetahuan, serta lebih mengenal kekayaan alam di Indonesia agar dapat melestarikan serta memeliharanya dengan baik.
Filter Instagram sebagai Media Promosi Soft Selling Bagi Dusun Semilir
Authors: Natania Ko, Elvina , Prasida T. Arie Setiawan , Bezaleel Michael
Published: August 2023

Promosi merupakan suatu bentuk komunikasi antara konsumen dan penjual. Promosi juga merupakan salah satu strategi pemasaran sebuah produk dengan menggunakan media yang mampu menarik perhatian audience. Seiring berkembangnya zaman maka banyak cara promosi yang dapat dilakukan. Salah satunya dengan melakukan promosi secara digital. Dusun Semilir menggunakan promosi digital menggunakan beberapa platform, yaitu TikTok dan Instagram. Pada platform Instagram, Dusun Semilir aktif melakukan promosi pada fitur Instagram Story dan Instagram Feeds. Audience kurang tertarik dengan konten yang telah disajikan oleh Dusun Semilir pada saat low season sehingga menyebabkan turunnya insight Instagram Dusun Semilir. Selain itu engagement rate Instagram Dusun Semilir mempunyai angka di bawah rata-rata. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk membantu Dusun Semilir menaikan engagement rate Instagram dan insight Instagram agar brand image Dusun Semilir tetap terjaga. Metode penelitian campuran kualitatif dan kuantitatif serta strategi penelitian linear digunakan dalam penelitian ini. Dari hasil penelitian ini, audience menyukai new media interaktif yaitu filter Instagram sebagai media promosi soft selling yang interaktif.
Diphthamide synthesis is linked to the eEF2‐client chaperone machinery
Authors: Kaduhr Lars , Mayer Klaus , Schaffrath Raffael , Buchner Johannes , Brinkmann Ulrich
Published: January 2025

The diphthamide modification of eukaryotic translation elongation factor (eEF2) is important for accurate protein synthesis. While the enzymes for diphthamide synthesis are known, coordination of eEF2 synthesis with the diphthamide modification to maintain only modified eEF2 is unknown. Physical and genetic interactions extracted from BioGRID show a connection between diphthamide synthesis enzymes and chaperones in yeast. This includes the Hsp90 co‐chaperones Hgh1 and Cpr7. The respective co‐chaperone deletion strains contained eEF2 without diphthamide. Notably, strains deficient in other co‐chaperones showed no defect in the eEF2‐diphthamide modification. Our results demonstrate that diphthamide synthesis involves not only Dph enzymes but also the eEF2‐interacting co‐chaperones Hgh1 and Cpr7 and may thus require a conformational state of eEF2 which is maintained by specific (co‐)chaperones.
Comparative activity of dimethyl fumarate derivative IDMF in three models relevant to multiple sclerosis and psoriasis
Authors: He Yulin , Gong Guiyi , Quijas Geovani , Lee Simon Ming‐Yuen , Chaudhuri Ratan K. , Bojanowski Krzysztof
Published: January 2025

Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is an anti‐inflammatory and immunoregulatory medication used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) and psoriasis. Its skin sensitization property precludes its topical use, which is unfortunate for the treatment of psoriasis. Isosorbide di‐(methyl fumarate) (IDMF), a novel derivative of DMF, was synthesized to circumvent this adverse reaction and unlock the potential of topical delivery, which could be useful for treating psoriasis in the subpopulation of psoriatic MS patients, as well as in the general population. Here, we compared its therapeutic potential of this non‐sensitizing derivative with DMF and its therapeutic version Diroximel in three skin‐ and neuroinflammation models: the lck‐GFP zebrafish, activated BV‐2 murine microglia and human T‐lymphocyte Jurkat cell line. The results provide a comparative evaluation of the bioactivity of these three related chemical entities in models relevant to skin and neuroinflammation and expose several therapeutic advantages unique to IDMF.
Temperature‐Dependent Photoluminescence and Grain Size Control in a Prototypical Lead‐Free Bismuth Halide Perovskite
Authors: Jawad Muhammad , Siddique Sumera , Aslam Zainab , Hussain Sajid , Butt Tahir Sajjad , Saeed Faisal , Ain Qurat Ul , Ulhaq Ata , Khan Ammar A.
Published: January 2025

Lead‐free perovskites are non‐toxic solution‐processed semiconductors that promise applications in solar cells, light‐emitting diodes, and advanced photodetectors with broad and easily tunable spectral sensitivity. However, understanding excitonic properties and growth conditions are key for the development of efficient and stable materials. This study explores the temperature‐dependent photoluminescence (PL) and the influence of anti‐solvent on crystal size in methylammonium bismuth iodide (MA3Bi2I9), a prototypical bismuth‐based lead‐free perovskite. Using a one‐step spin‐coating method, low‐dimensional hexagonal MA3Bi2I9 crystals with controllable grain sizes ranging from 1.4 to 36 μm are developed, employing chlorobenzene as an anti‐solvent. Temperature‐dependent micro‐PL measurements reveal multi‐component PL emissions below 199 K and interestingly, below 144 K, bound excitonic recombination dominates the PL spectra. The observed free and bound exciton recombination peaks are consistent with the MA3Bi2I9 exciton binding energy of ≈340 meV reported in earlier studies. Observed temperature‐dependent PL spectra provide deeper insights into the excitonic properties of MA3Bi2I9, which have strong correlation with optoelectronic device performance, thereby providing a quick tool to assess as‐synthesized lead‐free perovskite films for defect‐site density and binding energy. Furthermore, the potential of concentration‐dependent anti‐solvent engineering in obtaining controllable bismuth perovskite crystal grain sizes for optoelectronic applications is underscored.
Beyond Order: Perspectives on Leveraging Machine Learning for Disordered Materials
Authors: Yazdani Sarvestani Hamidreza , Nadigotti Surabhi , Fatehi Erfan , Aranguren van Egmond Derek , Ashrafi Behnam
Published: January 2025

Disordered structures, characterized by their lack of periodicity, present significant challenges in fields such as materials science and biology. Conventional methods often fall short of capturing the intricate properties and behaviors of these complex systems. For example, the prediction of material properties in amorphous polymers and high‐entropy alloys has historically been inaccurate due to their inherent disorder, which arises from the probabilistic nature of structural defects and nonuniform atomic arrangements. However, the rise of machine learning (ML) offers a revolutionary approach to understanding and predicting the behavior of disordered materials. This perspective article explores how ML techniques, including neural networks and generative models, provide unprecedented insights into materials with inherent disorder, driving advances in industries such as energy storage, drug discovery, and structural engineering. By leveraging powerful algorithms, researchers can now predict structural properties, identify hidden patterns, and accelerate the discovery of novel materials. Case studies illustrate the ability of ML to overcome data scarcity, enhance model reliability, and enable real‐time analysis of disordered structures. While challenges such as data quality and computational costs remain, the integration of ML with traditional methods marks a transformative leap in our ability to navigate the disordered landscape, setting the stage for ground‐breaking discoveries.
Self‐Assembly of a Tripodal Terpyridine Based Ligand with Luminescent Lanthanide Ions in Solution and Soft Material
Authors: Delente Jason M. , Kotova Oxana , Willis‐Fox Niamh , O'Brien John E. , Twamley Brendan , Daly Ronan , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur
Published: January 2025

The tripodal 1,3,5‐benzene tricarboxamide (BTA) ligand functionalized with terpyridine (1) is used to self‐assemble with Ln(III) ions (Ln = La, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Yb, and Lu) in solution and within soft material (supramolecular metallogels). Stability constants for 1:1 and 3:2 (M:L) assemblies formed in MeOH are determined using nonlinear regression analysis of UV–vis absorption and emission titrations revealing a parabolic relationship between the binding constants values and the ionic radii of Ln(III) ions. The formation of gels using ligand 1 in MeOH‐H2O at 0.6 wt.% and their modification, by diffusing the Ln(III) ions through them is described. The latter leads to both crosslinking of already self‐assembled ligands, as well as modulating their physical properties as demonstrated by photophysical, rheological, and morphological studies leading to significant changes in the in situ morphology.
Subventricular Zone Microstructure in Pediatric‐Onset Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Margoni Monica , Storelli Loredana , Pagani Elisabetta , Preziosa Paolo , Mistri Damiano , Gueye Mor , Rubin Martina , Moiola Lucia , Filippi Massimo , Rocca Maria Assunta
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the microstructural dynamics of the subventricular zone (SVZ) with aging and their associations with clinical disability and brain structural damage in pediatric‐onset multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Methods

One‐hundred and forty‐one pediatric‐onset MS patients (67 pediatric and 74 adults with pediatric‐onset) and 233 healthy controls (HC) underwent neurological and 3.0 T MRI assessment. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) were extracted from the SVZ and the thalamus (as control region).

Results

In HC, SVZ FA was higher until age 40 then declined, whereas MD was lower until age 35 before rising (false discovery rate p value [pFDR] ≤ 0.008). Thalamic FA was higher until age 30 and then declined, whereas MD was higher until age 50 (pFDR ≤ 0.007). Pediatric MS patients showed significantly higher SVZ FA than pediatric HC (pFDR < 0.001), while adult patients showed no differences compared to adult HC (pFDR ≤ 0.724). Adult patients had lower thalamic FA and higher MD (pFDR < 0.001). Adults had lower SVZ FA and MD, but higher thalamic MD compared to pediatric patients (pFDR < 0.001). In pediatric MS, higher SVZ FA and MD were associated with higher white matter (WM) lesion volume (LV) and choroid plexus volume and lower brain and thalamic volumes (pFDR ≤ 0.047). In adult patients, higher SVZ MD associated with higher WM LV, lower brain volumes, and lower z‐SDMT (pFDR≤0.019). Thalamic microstructural abnormalities were associated with more severe disability and brain damage in both groups (pFDR ≤ 0.018).

Interpretation

Our findings suggest that microstructural changes in the SVZ occur early in pediatric MS and are associated with brain structural damage but not with clinical impairment. ANN NEUROL 2025
From Natural Product Derivative to Hexagonal Prism Supermolecule: Potent Biofilm Disintegration, Enhanced Foliar Affinity, and Effective Management of Tomato Bacterial Canker
Authors: Chen Xue , Yang Run , Liu Kongjun , Liu Min , Shi Qingchuan , Yang Jinghan , Hao Gefei , Luo Laixin , Du Fengpei , Wang Peiyi
Published: January 2025

Clavibacter michiganensis (Cmm), designated as an A2 quarantine pest by the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO), incites bacterial canker of tomato, which presently eludes rapid and effective control methodologies. Dense biofilms formed by Cmm shield internal bacteria from host immune defenses and obstruct the ingress of agrochemicals. Even when agrochemicals disintegrate biofilms, splashing and bouncing during application disperse active ingredients away from target sites. Herein, we present a supramolecular strategy to fabricate a hexagonal prism‐shaped material, BPGA@CB[8], assembled from an 18β‐glycyrrhetinic acid derivative (PBGA) and host molecule—cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) via host–guest recognition. This positively charged material manifests multifaceted functionalities, notably the ability to surmount biofilm barriers, annihilate the encased pathogenic bacteria, and enhance foliar affinity of droplets. The strong in vitro potency and effective deposition of BPGA@CB[8] foster optimal conditions for robust in vivo efficacy, demonstrating superior protective and curative activities (56.9 %/53.4 %) against canker of tomato at a low‐dose of 100 μg⋅mL−1 compared to BPGA (44.6 %/42.2 %), kasugamycin (30.1 %/28.4 %), and thiodiazole copper (35.4 %/31.0 %). This supramolecular material, based on natural product derivatives, provides a potent treatment for high‐risk canker of tomato, and exemplifies the utility of supramolecular strategies in optimizing the attributes of natural products for managing plant bacterial diseases.
Easily Water‐Synthesisable Iron‐Chloranilate Frameworks as High Energy and High‐Power Cathodes for Sustainable Alkali‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Durán‐Egido Víctor , Darby James P. , Cliffe Matthew J. , Garitaonandia José S. , Grande‐Fernández Paloma , Morris Andrew J. , Carretero‐González Javier , Castillo‐Martínez Elizabeth
Published: January 2025

Achieving high battery performance from low‐cost, easily synthesisable electrode materials is crucial for advancing energy storage technologies. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) combining inexpensive transition metals and organic ligands are promising candidates for high‐capacity cathodes. Iron‐chloranilate‐water frameworks are herein reported to be produced in aqueous media under mild conditions. Removal of reticular water from known [Fe2(CAN)3(H2O)4] ⋅ 4H2O yields a new supramolecular metal–organic framework (SMOF), [Fe2(CAN)3(H2O)4]. Removing coordination water, a new 2D honeycomb‐like MOF forms, Fe2(CAN)3, stable without counterions and solvent. This MOF adopts the unusual ABC layer‐stacking, as determined using a combination of ab initio random structure searching, electron diffraction, and Rietveld refinement of powder XRD data. Magnetometry, Mossbauer and Raman spectroscopy confirm that all three [Fe2(CAN)3(H2O)x]⋅yH2O phases contain HS‐Fe3+ and CAN2−, with magnetic ordering temperatures increasing (5→20 K) as the Fe−CAN connectivity increases. The SMOF and MOF show reversible (de)insertion of >4Li+/f.u. at average 2,59 V and 2,76 V vs Li+/Li, respectively. [Fe2(CAN)3] achieves 146 mAh/g at 1 C, thus specific energy (563 Wh/kg) and power (446 W/kg) in Li half‐cells competitive with conventional LiFePO4 (~580 Wh/kg and ~450 W/kg). Beyond Li, [Fe2(CAN)3] delivers 394 Wh/kg and 421 Wh/kg, for Na and K half‐cells respectively, becoming a competitive cathode for sustainable batteries.
High‐Efficiency Carbon Perovskite Solar Cells via Cathode Interface Engineering by using CuPc Hole‐Transporting Layers
Authors: Zaman Zohreh , Shahroosvand Hashem , Bellani Sebastiano , Bonaccorso Francesco , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: January 2025

Carbon perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs) represent a promising photovoltaic (PV) technology that addresses the long‐term operating stability needed to compete with commercial Si solar cells. However, the poor interface contacts between the carbon electrode and the perovskite result in a gap between C‐PSC′s performances and state‐of‐the‐art PSCs based on metallic back electrodes. In this work, Cu (II) phthalocyanine (CuPc) was rediscovered as an effective hole‐transporting material (HTM) to be coupled with carbon electrodes. In particular, based on computational studies and VASP calculations, it is found that the tetragonal structure of CuPc could efficiently coordinated to perovskite (P) layer via N and Cu atoms to Pb and I atoms, respectively. By systematically optimizing the concentration of the CuPc HTL solution, and screening the coupling of CuPc HTL with two types of carbon electrodes, based on carbon black:graphite (C‐G) mixture and reduced graphene oxide (RGO), respectively, a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.4 % (the mean PCE value of 18.57 %) has been achieved. In addition, our cells exhibit satisfactory stability under thermal aging at 85°C, showing less than 20% PCE loss after more than 200 hours. Furthermore, they maintain excellent shelf‐life stability, with only 1.3% PCE loss over 20 days under ambient conditions (ISOS‐D1). These findings represent a significant step forward in developing commercially competitive C‐PSCs, as they combine both high PCE and stability.
Continuous Production of Influenza VLPs Using IC‐BEVS and Multi‐Stage Bioreactors
Authors: Correia Ricardo , Zotler Taja , Ferraz Francisco , Fernandes Bárbara , Graça Miguel , Pijlman Gorben P. , Alves Paula M. , Roldão António
Published: January 2025

The insect cell‐baculovirus expression vector system (IC‐BEVS) has been an asset to produce biologics for over 30 years. With the current trend in biotechnology shifting toward process intensification and integration, developing intensified processes such as continuous production is crucial to hold this platform as a suitable alternative to others. However, the implementation of continuous production has been hindered by the lytic nature of this expression system and the process‐detrimental virus passage effect. In this study, we implemented a multi‐stage bioreactor setup for continuous production of influenza hemagglutinin‐displaying virus‐like particles (HA‐VLPs) using IC‐BEVS. A setup consisting of one Cell Growth Bioreactor simultaneously feeding non‐infected insect cells to three parallel Production Bioreactors operated at different residence times (RT) (18, 36, and 54 h) was implemented; Production Bioreactors were continuously harvested. Two insect cell lines (neutral pH–adapted High Five and Sf9) and two recombinant baculovirus (rBAC) constructs (one that originates from a bacmid, rBACbacmid, and another of non‐bacteria origin, rBACflashbac) were tested. Combining rBACflashbac with Sf9 cells was the most efficient approach, allowing consistent HA‐VLPs titers (34 ± 14 HA titer/mL) and rBAC titers (108–109 pfu/mL) throughout the period of continuous operation (20 days). Cell growth kinetics and viability varied across RT, and higher RT was associated with increased expression of HA‐VLPs, independent of the cell line and rBAC used; RT of 54 h allowed to maximize titers. The presence of particles resembling HA‐VLPs was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy throughout the continuous operation. This work showcases the implementation of a process for continuous production of a promising class of biotherapeutics (i.e., VLPs), and paves the way for establishing continuous, integrated setups using the IC‐BEVS expression system.
A Novel Screening System to Characterize and Engineer Quorum Quenching Lactonases
Authors: Sompiyachoke Kitty , Bravo Joseph , Sikdar Rakesh , Abdullah Jowan , Elias Mikael H.
Published: January 2025

N‐acyl l‐homoserine lactones are signaling molecules used by numerous bacteria in quorum sensing. Some bacteria encode lactonases, which can inactivate these signals. Lactonases were reported to inhibit quorum sensing‐dependent phenotypes, including virulence and biofilm. As bacterial signaling is dependent on the type of molecule used, lactonases with high substrate specificity are desirable for selectively targeting species in communities. Lactonases characterized from nature show limited diversity in substrate preference, making their engineering appealing but complicated by the lack of convenient assays for evaluating lactonase activity. We present a medium‐throughput lactonase screening system compatible with lysates that couples the ring opening of N‐acyl l‐homocysteine thiolactones with 5,5‐dithio‐bis‐(2‐nitrobenzoic acid) to generate a chromogenic signal. We show that this system is applicable to lactonases from diverse protein families and demonstrate its utility by screening mutant libraries of GcL lactonase from Parageobacillus caldoxylosilyticus. Kinetic characterization corroborated the screening results with thiolactonase and homoserine lactonase activity levels. This system identified GcL variants with altered specificity: up to 1900‐fold lower activity for long‐chain N‐acyl l‐homoserine lactone substrates and ~38‐fold increase in preference for short‐chain substrates. Overall, this new system substantially improves the evaluation of lactonase activity and will facilitate the identification and engineering of quorum quenching enzymes.
Real‐Time Auto Controlling of Viable Cell Density in Perfusion Cultivation Aided by In‐Line Dielectric Spectroscopy With Segmented Adaptive PLS Model
Authors: Sun Yunpeng , Zhang Qiongqiong , He Yunfei , Chen Dongliang , Wang Zheyu , Zheng Xiang , Fang Mingyue , Zhou Hang
Published: January 2025

Serving as a dedicated process analytical technology (PAT) tool for biomass monitoring and control, the capacitance probe, or dielectric spectroscopy, is showing great potential in robust pharmaceutical manufacturing, especially with the growing interest in integrated continuous bioprocessing. Despite its potential, challenges still exist in terms of its accuracy and applicability, particularly when it is used to monitor cells during stationary and decline phases. In this study, data pre‐processing methods were first evaluated through cross‐validation, where the first‐order derivative emerged as the most effective method to diminish variability in prediction accuracy across different training datasets. Subsequently, a segmented adaptive partial least squares (SA‐PLS) model was developed, and its accuracy and universality were demonstrated through several validation studies using different clones and culture processes. Furthermore, a real‐time viable cell density (VCD) auto‐control system in perfusion culture was established, where the VCD was maintained around the target with notable precision and robustness. This model enhanced the monitoring capabilities of capacitance‐based PAT tools throughout the cultivation, expanded their application in cell‐specific automatic control strategies, and contributed vitally to the advancement of continuous manufacturing paradigms.
Impact of Centralisation of Radical Prostatectomy Driven by the Introduction of Robotic Systems on Positive Surgical Margin and Biochemical Recurrence in pT2 Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ibrahim Ibrahim , Kouli Omar , Ilangovan Sanjana , Sneddon Melanie , Nalagatla Sarika , Marshall Carol , Dutto Lorenzo , Leung Hing Y. , Ahmad Imran
Published: January 2025

Background

To assess how centralisation of cancer services via robotic surgery influenced positive surgical margin (PSM) occurrence and its associated risk of biochemical recurrence (BCR) in cases of pT2 prostate cancer (PC).

Methods

Retrospective analysis of all radical prostatectomy (RP) cases performed in the West of Scotland during the period from January 2013 to June 2022. Primary outcomes were PSM and BCR. The secondary outcomes compared the impact of centralisation and surgical approach on PSM and BCR; and margin length and location on BCR. Propensity score matching and Cox regression models were performed using R.

Results

A total of, 907 patients were included; 662 robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), 245 open RP. PSM rate was 17.7% (161/907), similar in RARP and open cohorts. Patients with PSM had higher rates of BCR; 26.7%, compared to 8.7% in patients with no PSM. Patients with margins of ≥ 1 mm had higher risk of developing BCR. Patients who underwent open RP had increased incidence of PSM ≥ 1 mm; 40/43 (93%) compared to 83/117 (71%) in robotic approach (p = 0.003). Limitations include the study being retrospective, introduction of centralisation and robot concurrently, and evolution of practice.

Discussion

PSMs in pT2 PC are associated with higher rates of BCR. Introduction of centralisation via the robot had no impact on PSM occurrence or BCR, although did demonstrate a reduction in PSM length.
Prognostic Factors and Nomogram for Malignant Brainstem Ependymoma: A Population‐Based Retrospective Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Database Analysis
Authors: Ji Xiaoyu , Yang Siyuan , Cheng Dejing , Zhao Wenbo , Sun Xuebo , Su Fang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to identify prognostic factors and develop a nomogram for survival in patients with brainstem ependymoma.

Methods

Data of 652 patients diagnosed with brainstem ependymoma extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry from 2000 to 2020 were analyzed. Univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to examine factors influencing overall survival (OS). Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and calibration curves were used to verify the nomogram. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to analyze OS based on treatment methods stratification or different age patterns.

Results

Six independent prognostic factors of patients with brainstem ependymoma were identified, including age, race, marital status, radiation, gross total resection (GTR), and histology. A comprehensive nomogram model was developed utilizing these predictors identified through multivariable Cox regression analysis. Furthermore, we found that patients with GTR have improved overall survival than patient with no surgery and biopsy only or with partial resection (GTR vs. no: p = 0.0004, GTR vs. partial resection: p = 0.022). Patients with radiation have improved overall survival than patient without radiation (p = 0.00013). Patients with GTR combined radiation therapy have improved overall survival than patient without or with GTR or radiation therapy only (p < 0.0001). Different treatment methods have no significant difference in the overall survival probability of the elderly group.

Conclusions

Individuals who are Black and anaplastic ependymomas were negative risk factors for brainstem ependymoma associated with an increased risk of mortality. Patients aged < 50 years with GTR and radiation always had better survival.
From Food Pantry to CARE Center in a Rural College: Our Journey
Authors: Shurtleff Carmen
Published: January 2025

Research consistently describes the large percentage of community college students who struggle to meet their basic needs such as food and housing. These challenges may be exacerbated for students in rural communities. At the same time, we are also learning more about the connection between addressing students’ basic needs and improving their educational outcomes. Food pantries are a way community colleges have been responding to food insecurity, and recent trends include expansion of food pantries into basic needs hubs. This article walks through lessons learned in how a faculty member who teaches social work at Northeast Texas Community College, a small, rural college, developed their campus food pantry into a more holistic CARE Center, and did so in the middle of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
A comparative study benchmarking colon polyp with computer‐aided detection (CADe) software
Authors: Papachrysos Nikolaos , Smedsrud Pia Helén , Ånonsen Kim V. , Berstad Tor Jan D. , Espeland Håvard , Petlund Andreas , Hedenström Per J. , Halvorsen Pål , Varkey Jonas , Hammer Hugo L. , Riegler Michael A. , de Lange Thomas
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Computer‐aided detection software (CADe) has shown promising results in real‐time polyp detection, but a limited head‐to‐head comparison of the available CADe systems has been performed. Moreover, such systems have not been compared to endoscopists using standardized videos. This study aims to compare the performance of three CADe systems in detecting polyps, employing a novel standardized methodology.

Methods

Videos from 300 colonoscopies conducted at Oslo University Hospital were analyzed. Short video clips (20–45 s) presenting normal mucosa or polyps were randomly selected. These videos were then streamed through each CADe system from Medtronic, Olympus, and Augere Medical. Each system featured diverse configurations, resulting in a total of six software settings. Sensitivity and false positivity (FP) were assessed by comparing the CADe systems to both the mean of the systems and pairwise between them. Furthermore, the systems’ performance was compared to the performance of five endoscopists.

Results

CADe systems’ sensitivity ranged between 84.9% and 98.7%, with statistically significant differences observed between the systems, both in comparison to the mean and to each other. FP rates ranged between 1.2% and 5.6%, also differing statistically significantly between the systems. The CADe systems achieving the highest sensitivity also exhibited the highest FP. Statistically significant differences in the alert delay were observed between different CADe systems and endoscopists.

Conclusions

This study highlights significant differences between commercially available CADe software regarding sensitivity and FP, but a superior performance compared to endoscopists. The software with the highest sensitivity also exhibited the highest FP, highlighting the need for further refinement.
Early CRPS Is a Heterogeneous Condition: Results From a Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Louis Marc‐Henri , Legrain Valéry , Aron Vladimir , Filbrich Lieve , Henrard Séverine , Barbier Olivier , Libouton Xavier , Mouraux Dominique , Lambert Julien , Berquin Anne
Published: January 2025

Background

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating condition characterised by significant heterogeneity. Early diagnosis is critical, but limited data exists on the condition's early stages. This study aimed to characterise (very) early CRPS patients and explore potential subgroups to enhance understanding of its mechanisms.

Methods

A total of 113 early CRPS patients were recruited, with 89 undergoing physical assessments. Data included demographic information, work‐related factors, CRPS history and clinical features, body perception disturbances, quantitative sensory testing (QST), and a visuospatial attention task.

Results

QST identified deficits in detecting thermal and mechanical stimuli, alongside increased sensitivity to thermal and blunt pressure painful stimuli. Participants reported body perception disturbances similar to those of persistent CRPS. Visuospatial biases were observed in two subgroups of patients. Latent class analysis (LCA) of 85 participants, based on five clinical parameters, identified four profiles: Mild, Moderate, Body Representation Disturbance (BRD), and Pressure Allodynia CRPS. The Mild and Moderate profiles were associated with higher‐intensity trauma, with the latter showing worse outcomes. BRD and Pressure Allodynia CRPS followed mild trauma but exhibited the poorest outcomes. BRD CRPS displayed significant body perception disturbances, while Pressure Allodynia CRPS presented the highest sensitivity to pressure and psychosocial risk of chronification. Neither condition duration nor skin temperature effectively distinguished subgroups.

Conclusions

These findings emphasise the heterogeneity within (very) early CRPS patients and support the absence of a minimum required duration prior to the CRPS diagnosis. Central/systemic mechanisms may play critical roles in severe cases.

Significance

This study identifies distinct (very) early CRPS profiles, suggesting different pathophysiological mechanisms and challenging traditional classifications. It paves the way for improved diagnosis and tailored treatments.
Effects of Banana Flour on Some Physicochemical, Textural, Bioactive, and Sensory Properties of Gluten‐Free Cookie
Authors: Karaman Kevser , Pinar Hasan , Ciftci Beyza , Kaplan Mahmut
Published: January 2025

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of banana flours obtained from different banana cultivars (Grand Nain (GN), Azman (AZ), and Erdemli (ER)) on some basic physicochemical, bioactive, textural, and sensory properties of the gluten‐free cookie samples by the simplex lattice mixture design approach. Incorporating banana powder into cookie samples resulted in significant changes in the parameters studied. The banana flours’ total dietary fiber and total starch levels ranged between 1.37% and 3.43% and 34.82% and 41.38%, respectively. Erdemli type bananas (ER) were distinguished by their high dietary fiber and resistant starch content as well as their superior bioactive properties. Total phenolic content and antiradical activity of the cookie samples enriched with banana flour were in the range of 376–600 mg GAE/kg, while the antiradical activity values ranged between 8.64% and 59.42%. The hardness of the cookie samples also ranged between 1664.5 and 2605.9 g. According to the results of the optimization, 98.5% ER and 1.5% GN flour mixture could yield the highest response scores. As a conclusion, gluten‐free cookies can be enriched by using banana flour, especially ER‐type ones, to increase the bioactive properties and overall acceptability.
Substitution and Complementarity in the Consumption of Alcohol, Cannabis, and Opium
Authors: Chandra Siddharth , Doshi Gaurav
Published: January 2025

Understanding the behavior of populations of drug consumers has been and remains a topic of keen interest. Using a unique dataset on 25 districts from Bengal, India, from 1911 to 1925, we analyze whether populations of consumers treat alcohol, cannabis, and opium as economic substitutes or complements in a legal regime. Additionally, we examine responsiveness to prices and income. Our analysis has three main findings. First, we find evidence of substitution between alcohol and cannabis bud. Second, cannabis leaf is a complement for alcohol but a substitute for cannabis bud. Third, we find negative income elasticity for alcohol, cannabis bud, and opium consumption. These findings on the link between consumption patterns and economic factors can guide harm reduction strategies.
The Effects of Hydrological Disasters on the Population's Health in the Northeast Region of Brazil
Authors: Halmenschlager Vinícius , de Almeida Alexandre Nunes , Ribeiro Felipe Garcia , da Trindade Carolina Silva
Published: January 2025

The Northeast region of Brazil is characterized by long periods of drought. However, the region is also frequently affected by floods. The socioeconomic characteristics of the locality make the population more vulnerable to the impacts of these disasters. Therefore, the aim of this article is to investigate the short to long‐term impacts of hydrological disasters in northeastern Brazil on morbidity and mortality rates, by age groups. For this purpose, the difference‐in‐differences method proposed by Callaway and Sant'Anna was applied to a monthly panel data spanning the period from 2000 to 2012. The results indicate that in the short term there is an increase in the mortality rate associated with drowning. In the medium term, there are effects particularly on morbidity rates, with emphasis on leptospirosis and acute respiratory diseases. For the long‐term diseases analyzed, no effects of hydrological disasters were observed.
Impact of Recent Translational and Therapeutic Developments on Clinical Course of BCR::ABL1‐Positive and ‐Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Mughal Tariq I. , Mascarenhas John , Rampal Raajit K. , Bose Prithviraj , Lion Thomas , Ajufo Helen , Yacoub Abdulraheem , Meshinchi Soheil , Masarova Lucia , Mesa Ruben , Jamieson Catriona , Barbui Tiziano , Saglio Giuseppe , Van Etten Richard A.
Published: January 2025

Despite the study of BCR::ABL1‐positive and ‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) providing seminal insights into cancer biology, tumor evolution and precision oncology over the past half century, significant challenges remain. MPNs are clonal hematopoietic stem cell‐derived neoplasms with heterogenous clinical phenotypes and a clonal architecture which impacts the often‐complex underlying genetics and microenvironment. The major driving molecular abnormalities have been well characterized, but debate on their role as disease‐initiating molecular lesions continues. The introduction of the ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been extremely successful in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia with most patients having a near‐normal life expectancy. Similar success has, however, not been achieved for BCR::ABL1‐negative MPNs in terms of disease course modification and most patients remain incurable. In both disease categories, genomic instability seems to increase the risk of disease progression to accelerated/blast phase, which is resistant/refractory to conventional treatment and associated with a poor prognosis. To address some of these issues, the late John Goldman and Tariq Mughal founded a scientific and clinical platform in 2006, the Post‐American Society of Hematology (ASH) MPN workshop, to appraise novel cancer biology, candidate therapeutic targets, treatments and other clinical challenges and pay tribute to all the many scientists and clinicians around the world instrumental to the progress made and continuing advances being made. This paper summarizes some of the recent data discussed at the 18th edition of the workshop and includes reference to some data presented or published after the workshop, including the 26th John Goldman CML conference.
Multidimensional Poverty due to COVID‐19 in Southeast Nigeria: Exploring the Roles of Education, Marital and Employment Status
Authors: Ugwu C.E. , Nwosu O. C. , Oti C. J.
Published: January 2025

Poverty as a phenomenon is multidimensional, and its incidence and causes constitute constant debate in the literature of the phenomenon. A crisis such as the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and the resultant lockdowns may increase poverty prevalence among citizens and, particularly, certain demographic characteristics in Nigeria. Hence, this study's general objectives were to interrogate the incidence of multidimensional poverty due to the COVID‐19 pandemic in the South‐eastern States of Nigeria, using the roles of educational level, marital status, and employment status of citizens as predictors. The 36 methodology of analysing multidimensional poverty index (MPI) was used in the study, and logistic regression is utilised to assess the determinant of multidimensional poverty. Additionally, an interstate online survey of 1057 participants (using a questionnaire) from five states was employed. The results indicated the prevalence and dynamics of COVID‐19 multidimensional poverty in the study area, with 46.55% constituting the severe poor, 16.84% the poor, 6.71% the near poor, and 29.90% the none poor. There were no major significant differences between the states. Significant predictors of COVID‐19‐related poverty in the study were the secondary school educational status and the employment dynamics of respondents. The implication of the result of the study suggests the application of effective palliative measures towards the vulnerable groups, which contributes to poverty reduction.
Efficacy and safety of Anlotinib in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin as a first‐line treatment for recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A single‐arm clinical trial
Authors: Xiao Zhehao , Chen Weiling , Du Youqin , Zeng Fanyan , Su Fang , Huang Shiting , Qu Song
Published: January 2025

The effectiveness and safety of combining anlotinib with gemcitabine and cisplatin in the first‐line treatment of recurrent/metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (R/M NPC) have not been definitively established. This research seeks to investigate the potential benefits and risks of utilizing this combination therapy in the first‐line management of R/M NPC. The research involved 22 individuals diagnosed with R/M NPC and who had not undergone any previous treatment. These patients were administered a concomitant therapy of anlotinib, gemcitabine, and cisplatin in cycles occurring every 3 weeks. The primary focus of the study was to assess progression‐free survival (PFS), while secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), disease control rate (DCR), and objective response rate (ORR). The findings revealed that the median PFS duration for patients with R/M NPC receiving the GPA regimen as a first‐line treatment was 12.6 months, with a 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.1 to 25.2. The median OS was reported as 37.4 months, with 95% CI: 28.0 to 46.8. The DCR in this study was 95.5%, while the ORR was 63.6%. Anlotinib has demonstrated a degree of effectiveness in the initial treatment of R/M NPC, while maintaining an acceptable level of safety.