bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Mixed Amide Coordination Compounds of Copper (II) Nicotinate
Authors: Ibragimova M. R. , Alimov U. K. , Azizov T. A.
Published: November 2022

Complexes of copper (II) nicotinate with acid amides were synthesized to vary the composition and the individual properties of the compounds obtained through coordination of the nicotinate group to acetamide, carbamide, thiocarbamide and nicotinamide (L1, L2). The coordination of the organic ligands, the environment of the central ion and the thermal behaviour of the synthesized compounds were elucidated by vibrational spectroscopy and thermal analysis. The relative intensities and the spatial structures of copper (II) nicotinate and the synthesized complexes showed that the new coordination compounds differ from each other and the original components, as they have unique crystal lattices. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was used to obtain diffraction patterns of free molecules of ligands, copper nicotinate, and synthesized coordination compounds. The thermal behaviour of the synthesized compounds was investigated and the thermolysis products were identified. The stepwise decomposition of the synthesized compounds was found with several endo - and exo effects correspond to the decomposition of the constituent parts of the complexes. Based on the intensity of the electronic spectrum of diffuse reflection and the values of the bands, the six-coordination environment of Cu (II) the synthesized complexes was proven.
Rhum
Authors: Wickham-Jones Caroline
Published: November 2022

This volume is the report of the archaeological excavations that took place on the island of Rhum between 1984 and 1986. The text contains details of the stratigraphical remains on site, and in particular the large body of Mesolithic material recovered. It describes the methodology, detailed analyses of the artefactual assemblages as well as the environmental and geophysical studies that were carried out in conjunction with the excavations. A section on the use of raw materials in the west of Scotland takes the coverage beyond Rhum, and the final section presents an interpretation of the site in the early settlement of Scotland.
A new method for lint percentage non-destructive detection based on optical penetration imaging
Authors: Geng Lijie , Ji Zhikun , Zhang Ruiliang , Zhang Zhifeng , Zhai Yusheng , Zhang Wenyan
Published: November 2022

Lint percentage of seed cotton is one of the important bases for pricing in the trading segment. Unfortunately, the conventional methods of lint percentage are manually operated, which relies on the abundant experience of experts, and restrained by personal, physical and environmental factors. Up to date, the calculation of the lint percentage of seed cotton has not fully automated. In this paper, we proposed a non-destructive detection method for automatically obtaining lint percentage of seed cotton based on optical penetration imaging and machine vision, for the first time to our knowledge. The cotton seed image was obtained by the penetration imaging setup with a LED white backlight source. To accurately identify the number of cotton seeds, the image features of the cotton seed was studied and three key features was been found, which are the circumference, area, and greyscale value, respectively. A calculation system based on the three key features was presented to process the images and then automatically calculate the lint percentage of seed cotton. The first step of the system is to segment the original image using adaptive thresholding followed by morphological operations. Afterwards, the number of cotton seed was obtained by the three key features of the cotton seed. Then, the lint percentage was achieved by a professional industry formula. The suggested lint percentage detection methods were verified by the experiments with two seed cotton varieties samples of H219 and ZHM19. The experimental results indicated that the detection average accuracy of the developed system for seed cotton varieties H219 and ZHM19 were 96.33% and 95.40%
Effect of the consumption of a cocoa paste bar (Theobroma cacao L.) on metabolic indicators in university students
Authors: Ariza Ortega José Alberto , Cruz Cansino Nelly del Socorro , Reyna Robles López María , López Contreras Luilli Antonio , Ramírez Moreno Esther , Sánchez Montoya Imelda , Robles de la Torre Raúl René , Escamilla Rosales María Fernanda
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the effect on metabolic indicators (total cholesterol, triacylglycerides, HDL, LDL and glycemia) in university students, after the daily consumption of 1.00 g of a cocoa paste bar (PCB) and 0.50 g of a white chocolate bar (BCB) during two months. The population was characterized according to their sex, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), physical activity and diet. The pre- and post-metabolic levels were measured in the control group (BCB) and experimental group (BPC). The students have normal weight (22.90 kg/m2 and 24.99 kg/m2), average physical activity was predominat (55.60 %) and their nutrition was inadequate. The study groups presented metabolic levels within the normal parameter. However, the consumption of 1 g of PCB for two months increases HDL levels (36.94 ± 13.42 mg/dL vs 59.74 ± 9.41 mg/dL), an effect that is highly desirable in a food
Quality of sweet-grape tomatoes grown under different nitrogen rates and sources
Authors: Chaves da Paixão Caroliny Fatima , Silva dos Santos Leonardo Nazário , Teixeira Marconi Batista , Loureiro Soares Frederico Antonio , Buranelo Egea Mariana , Marques Vidal Vitor , Batista Soares Jaqueline Aparecida , Fernando Gomes Luiz , Oliveira Fernandes Larissa , Campos de Lira Laura
Published: November 2022

Most sweet-grape tomatoes are marketed fresh; thus, sensorial characteristics are important for this vegetable. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the technological quality based on the physical, chemical, and sensorial characteristics of sweet-grape tomatoes, the cultivar Carolina, grown under different nitrogen (N) sources (urea and organo-mineral) and N rates (50%, 75%, 100%, and 125%). The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with controlled environment; the plants were grown in pots, using a drip irrigation system. A completely randomized experimental design was used, in a 2×4 factorial arrangement. The N soil fertilizer application was divided into three times: at 10, 17, and 24 days after the emergence of the plants. The fruits were harvested when presenting reddish color in the whole surface. The parameters evaluated were: weight, volume, specific volume, density, color, texture, total soluble solids, and sensorial characteristics. The physical characteristics of the sweet-grape tomatoes showed better results when using the organo-mineral treatment. The sensorial analysis showed better results when using the treatment with organo-mineral nitrogen fertilizer, which resulted in better marketable fruits higher than 70%. The treatment with urea resulted in marketable fruits higher than 50%. The N rate of 50% (urea or organo-mineral) resulted in greater acceptance by consumers, when considering the parameters appearance and firmness.
Pathway among fatty acid profile, seed germination, and vigor of watermelon cultivars
Authors: Çağlar Kaymak Haluk , Akan Selen , Yarali Karakan Faika
Published: November 2022

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) seed is rich in oils and the fatty acid composition of watermelon seeds is a significant source of nutrition and income for especially Africa, the Middle East, and Asia countries. Although the fatty acid profile of watermelon seed is well documented, the underlying associations with seed traits have not yet been studied. Therefore, the current study aimed to determine both fatty acid profile of watermelon seeds and the relations between the fatty acid profile and seed/seedling characteristics. For this purpose, two common watermelon cultivars (Alaska F1 and Galaktika) of seed were used to examine the first count, germination percentage, vigour, vigour index, seed coat ratio, 100-seed weight as well as fatty acid profile. Vegetative traits including seedling height, diameter, dry matter, and leaf area were also determined in these cultivars. As a result, there were significant differences among cultivars for vigour, vigour index, seedling height, seedling diameter, and fatty acids. In addition, linoleic (C18:2n-6) (68%), oleic (C18:1n-9) (15%), and palmitic (C16:0) acids (9.7%) were considerably highest in concentration in the watermelon seeds. The correlation analysis showed that palmitoleic acid (C16:1n7) and arachidic acid (C20:0) in watermelon seeds could play an important role in signalling seed and seedling traits. Also, seedling dry matter can be used indicator of a large number of fatty acids based on the correlation results. According to principal component analyses, among several fatty acids, C16:1n-7, C18:1n-9, and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) were found close to each other. The path analyses indicated that MUFA, C16:1n-7, and C18:1n-9 could be used as markers to estimate the first count, germination rate, and vigour of watermelon seeds. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first research that aimed to determine seed and seedling traits of watermelon cultivars based on the fatty acid profile
Evaluation of physicochemical properties of çemengilik- A traditional meatball produced with fenugreek paste containing different tomato paste ratios
Authors: Çabuk Kök Duygu , Çiçekb Ümran
Published: November 2022

The present study was carried out to determine the effects of fenugreek paste containing different ratios of tomato paste on some physicochemical properties of a traditional meatball. For this purpose, three groups of meatballs were produced and named C (control, containing fenugreek paste without tomato paste), C1 (having the ratio of 4:1 fenugreek paste to tomato paste), and C1.5 (having the ratio of 3.5:1.5 fenugreek paste to tomato paste). It was determined that the addition of tomato paste had a lowering effect on the pH value. The exterior surface color parameters of all groups measured at the end of drying showed that C1.5 had the highest a* and b* values. Utilizing the ratio of 3.5:1.5 fenugreek paste to tomato paste (C1.5) resulted in lowest free fatty acid value. C1 had the lowest thiobarbituric acid value at the end of the processing stage. It was seen that utilizing tomato paste in the formulation of fenugreek paste had a significant decreasing effect on free fatty acid and thiobarbituric acid values. The results of the current study showed that a fenugreek paste to tomato paste ratio of 3.5:1.5 could be applied for manufacturing çemengilik to limit lipid oxidation and improve color properties
Effect of the feeding system (grazing vs. zero grazing) on the production, composition, and fatty acid profile in milk of creole goats in northern Mexico
Authors: Granados-Rivera Lorenzo Danilo , Jáquez Jorge Alonso Maldonado- , Bautista- Yuridia
Published: November 2022

The objective was to compare the productive performance, composition, and fatty acid profile of the milk of creole goats under a grazing system or in zero grazing. Fourteen creole adult goats were used, randomly distributed in two homogeneous treatments (grazing, n = 7; zero grazing, n = 7). The goats had an adaptation period of 14 d, and a 49 d experimental period. Milk production and its chemical composition were analyzed in a repeated measures design. The fatty acid profile of the milk, the chemical composition of the feed, and of the plants consumed by the goats were analyzed by analysis of variance.They were manually milked once a day between 0600 to 0700 h daily. Milk production was measured individually with a portable scale. The quality (protein, fat, and lactose) was measured through infrared spectrophotometry and the fatty acid (FA) profile was obtained through gas chromatography. Differences were found (p<0.05) between the treatments for production, fat, protein, and lactose yield. The main milk FAs in both systems were C6:0, C14:0, C18:1n-9, C16:0 and C18: 0. A higher content of saturated FAs was found in the milk of the zero grazing (p<0.05) and a higher content of unsaturated FAs in the milk of grazing goats (p<0.05). The milk fat of grazing goats had 43% higher concentration of the 9-cis, 11-trans isomer of conjugated linoleic acid compared to milk fat from zero grazing goats. The milk of grazing goats is concluded to have a more attractive lipid profile for the consumer, with a higher concentration of compounds with potential beneficial effects on human health
Cultivation possibilities of Salvia aramiensis in the continental and the mediterranean type of climate
Authors: Yenikalaycı Ahmet
Published: November 2022

Salvia aramiensis Rech., a perennial species native to the Eastern Mediterranean, is used for medicinal purposes and as herbal tea. The cultivation possibilities, herbage yield, essential oil content and components of S. aramiensis were investigated in two different elevations (Adana 28 m above sea level (asl) and Pozantı 1200 m asl) in the continental and Mediterranean type of climate for 2 years. The measured plant parameters were plant height, herbage, leaf and flower fresh and dry yields, essential oil content and composition. Plant height differences were not significant at both locations and years. The highest herbage yield (7406 kg ha-1) was obtained from Adana in the 1st year and the lowest was (2222 kg ha-1) obtained in Pozantı in the 2nd year. Essential oil contents varied between 1.5 and 2.9%. The highest leaf essential oil content and yield were obtained from Adana in the 2nd year and the lowest was obtained from Pozantı in the 1st year. The major essential oil found in the leaves and the flowers were α-pinene, 1,8-cineole, β-pinene, borneol, camphor and viridiflorol at both locations. The results of the study showed that S. aramiensis could better adapt and successfully cultivated under plain conditions of the Eastern Mediterranean region
Postharvest treatments and maturity stages impact sensory attributes and shelf life of tomato fruits var. Pearson kept in Zero Energy Cool Chamber
Authors: Samiullah Hakimi Sayed , Raina Ravinder , Saharawat Yashpal Singh
Published: November 2022

The investigation has been carried out under ZECC conditions located at the research farm of agriculture faculty of Kabul University, Afghanistan. The objective was to understand the effect of postharvest treatments and harvesting stages on the shelf life and sensory quality of tomato fruits. It was found that both main factors had a significant effect and the highest shelf life noted for the fruits of H1(turning color stage) and D1 (dipped in 6 % CaCl2 solution) was 26.19 and 25.17 days, respectively. At the end of the storage period, the final evaluation average scores for overall sensory attributes of turning color fruits were higher whereas it was noted lower for light red color fruits compared with initial scores. The highest scores for all attributes such as color, flesh texture, flavor, and overall acceptance were noted for the fruits of H1 and D1 respectively. Thus, the turning color stage has seen as a suitable harvesting stage and then followed by pink color stage of the tomatoes of the Pearson variety that could be considered for various purposes after storage respectively. The 6 % CaCl2 solution could increase tomatoes shelf life and maintain the quality that it had retained the fruits sensory attributes to an acceptable level
Antioxidant activities and physicochemical property of Jeolpyeon added with laver (Porphyra tenera)
Authors: Kwon Dohyoung , Han Ji Ahn , Kwon Ki Han
Published: November 2022

As the importance of diseases related to aging has been highlighted worldwide, interest in antioxidant functional foods is increasing. In Korea, P. tenera, which is rich in polyphenol compounds and is beneficial to health, has been consumed for a long time, and over time, it has been re-examined in the West, and the demand is increasing. However, due to the lack of studies using laver, this paper experimented with adding P. tenera to rice cake, a traditional Korean food that lowers the risk and incidence of chronic diseases. As the amount of P. tenera added increased, the water content increased, and there was no significant difference in pH. As the added content of P. teneraincreased, the total phenol content was significantly increased from 31.38 (control) to 40.80 (3% sample), 49.18 (6% sample), 55.04 (9% sample), 55.78 (12% sample), and flavonoids were significantly increased at 13.27 (12% sample). ABTS significantly increased from 4.81 (control) to 9.50 (6% sample), 18.89 (9% sample), and 37.24 (12% sample). The increase in the content of P. tenera suggests that the phenol contained in P. tenera has an antioxidant effect. In the sensory evaluation, the 12% sample received the highest score of 3.57 in overall preference. Therefore, P. tenera Jeolpyeon was confirmed to have excellent antioxidant effect and overall preference, suggesting that it has potential as a health functional food
Genotyping, physicochemical characterization, and protein isoform quantification of β-casein A2 milk in chinese simmental and Angus cattle
Authors: Prabakusuma Adhita , Aleryani Hamzah
Published: November 2022

The recent findings on β-casein (β-CN) A2 cattle’s milk variant have triggered global research interest, as it is claimed to be a safer choice for human health. Only a few studies have been performed to investigate the presence of β-CN A1 and A2 alleles of the CSN2 gene in dual-purpose Simmental and Angus cattle in Yunnan province, China. This present study aimed to genotype cattle producing A2 milk, predict the physicochemical properties, and quantify the isoform concentration of β-CN A2 protein. Blood samples were collected from 286 cattle (201 Simmental and 85 Angus breeds). Genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) coupled with the sequencing method. Physicochemical properties were predicted using several webbased bioinformatics tools. A sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure β-CN A2 protein isoform concentration in fresh A2 milk. Allele frequencies of β-CN A2 were more dominant in Simmental (0.642) and Angus (0.835) than A1. The β-CN A1A2 genotype was most frequent in Simmental (44.8%), while A2A2 genotype was primarily found in Angus (70.6%). The predicted monoisotopic mass, molecular weight, isoelectric point (pI), net charge at pH 7, total number of atoms, instability index, and grand average of hydropathicity (GRAVY) of β-CN A2 were 23,567.23 Da, 23,582.30 Da, 5.24, –6.5, 3,357, 96.53, and –0.355, respectively. The β-CN A2 protein isoform concentration in Angus (17.8 ng/ml) was higher than in Simmental (16.7 ng/ml). Identifying β-CN A2 milk provides new insights for screening favorable alleles and establishing breeding programs based on marker-assisted selection.
Recalibrating US Medical School Admissions With an Equity Lens
Authors: Gavulic Kyle A. , Shanab Bassel M. , Reed-Hendon Caryn
Published: November 2022

This Viewpoint discusses unresolved barriers in US medical school matriculation for racial and ethnic minority groups and other historically marginalized communities and proposes policy changes to recalibrate admissions with an equity focus.
Effects of Scanning Strategy on the Densification and Microhardness of Selective Laser Melting Mg–Y–Sm–Zn–Zr Alloy
Authors: Wang Kongkong , Wang Wenli , Xu Rongrong , Zhao Di , Li Haoyang , Dong Guowen
Published: November 2022

Herein, Mg–Y–Sm–Zn–Zr alloy samples are prepared using selective laser melting (SLM). The effect of the scanning strategy on pore defects and microhardness is investigated. Pore defects are classified into lack of fusion (LOF) defects, gas pore (GP) and keyhole (KH) defects, and irregular pore (IRP) defects according to lengths and roundness. The LOF defect is caused by powder accumulation, spheroidization, droplet solidification preferentially, and pore defects accumulation. The recoil pressure causes the GP and KH defect, and different remelting zones affect its release. The filling behavior of LOF defects at different layer rotation angles and the connection of GPs and KH defects will form IRP defects. The microhardness test shows that the average microhardness is inversely proportional to porosity. The island size of 4 × 4 mm eases the accumulation of powder at the island boundaries, prevents spheroidization, and facilitates adequate spreading of droplets. The layer rotation angle of 67° inhibits the accumulation of pore defects and facilitates the filling of pore defects. The sample with the maximum densification (98.53%) and the highest average microhardness value (95.64 HV) is obtained under this scanning strategy.
Stabilizing RNA Nanovaccines with Transformable Hyaluronan Dynamic Hydrogel for Durable Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Jia Fuhao , Huang Wenping , Yin Yue , Jiang Yue , Yang Qingzhen , Huang Haishui , Nie Guangjun , Wang Hai
Published: November 2022

Massage RNA (mRNA) vaccines represent a new strategy for advanced cancer immunotherapy. To protect mRNA from degradation and deliver to targeted cells, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are extensively utilized as non‐viral vectors. However, the stability of mRNA‐laden LNPs substantially hinders their clinical application. Development of thermostable and durable mRNA nanovaccines is urgently needed. Here, a hyaluronan dynamic hydrogel is reported to protect mRNA and resiquimod (R848)‐laden LNPs (HA‐mRLNPs) from degradation at room temperature for durable cancer immunotherapy. A microfluidic device is proposed to effectively encapsulate mRNA and immunoadjuvants in LNPs (mRLNPs). Then, hyaluronan dynamic hydrogel is used to stabilize LNPs during storage at room temperature by restricting the migration and fusion of LNPs. Particularly, gel‐like hyaluronan undergoes state transition for controlled release of mRLNPs under physiological condition. Therefore, HA‐mRLNPs can efficiently deliver mRNA encoding tumor antigens to dendritic cells for antigen presentation to induce antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells for killing tumor cells. Overall, this study demonstrates that the LNPs‐hydrogel system can be used for effective cancer immunotherapy.
Self‐Sustained Snapping Drives Autonomous Dancing and Motion in Free‐Standing Wavy Rings
Authors: Zhao Yao , Hong Yaoye , Qi Fangjie , Chi Yinding , Su Hao , Yin Jie
Published: November 2022

Harnessing snapping, an instability phenomenon observed in nature (e.g., Venus flytraps), for autonomy has attracted growing interest in autonomous soft robots. However, achieving self‐sustained snapping and snapping‐driven autonomous motions in soft robots remains largely unexplored. Here, harnessing bistable, ribbon ring‐like structures for realizing self‐sustained snapping in a library of soft liquid‐crystal elastomer wavy rings under constant thermal and photothermal actuation are reported. The self‐sustained snapping induces continuous ring flipping that drives autonomous dancing or crawling motions on the ground and underwater. The 3D, free‐standing wavy rings employ either a highly symmetric or symmetry‐broken twisted shape with tunable geometric asymmetries. It is found that the former favors periodic self‐dancing motion in place due to isotropic friction, while the latter shows a directional crawling motion along the predefined axis of symmetry during fabrication due to asymmetric friction. It shows that the crawling speed can be tuned by the geometric asymmetries with a peak speed achieved at the highest geometric asymmetry. Lastly, it is shown that the autonomous crawling ring can also adapt its body shape to pass through a confined space that is over 30% narrower than its body size.
Single‐Atom Vanadium Catalyst Boosting Reaction Kinetics of Polysulfides in Na–S Batteries
Authors: Jiang Yu , Yu Zuxi , Zhou XueFeng , Cheng Xiaolong , Huang Huijuan , Liu Fanfan , Yang Yaxiong , He Shengnan , Pan Hongge , Yang Hai , Yao Yu , Rui Xianhong , Yu Yan
Published: November 2022

The practical application of the room‐temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries is hindered by the insulated sulfur, the severe shuttle effect of sodium polysulfides, and insufficient polysulfide conversion. Herein, on the basis of first principles calculations, single‐atom vanadium anchored on a 3D nitrogen‐doped hierarchical porous carbon matrix (denoted as 3D‐PNCV) is designed and fabricated to enhance sulfur reactivity, and adsorption and catalytic conversion performance of sodium polysulfide. The 3D‐PNCV host with abundant and active V sites, hierarchical porous structure, high electrical conductivity, and strong chemical adsorption/conversion ability of V–N bonding can immobilize the polysulfides and promote reversibly catalytic conversion of polysulfides toward Na2S. Therefore, as‐fabricated RT Na–S batteries can achieve a high reversible capacity (445 mAh g−1 over 800 cycles at 5 A g−1) and excellent rate capability (224 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1). The electrocatalysis mechanism of sodium polysulfides is further experimentally and theoretically revealed, which provides a new strategy to develop the highly stable RT Na–S batteries.
Exploring a COVID‐19 Endemic Scenario: High‐Resolution Agent‐Based Modeling of Multiple Variants
Authors: Truszkowska Agnieszka , Zino Lorenzo , Butail Sachit , Caroppo Emanuele , Jiang Zhong‐Ping , Rizzo Alessandro , Porfiri Maurizio
Published: November 2022

Our efforts as a society to combat the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic are continuously challenged by the emergence of new variants. These variants can be more infectious than existing strains and many of them are also more resistant to available vaccines. The appearance of these new variants cause new surges of infections, exacerbated by infrastructural difficulties, such as shortages of medical personnel or test kits. In this work, a high‐resolution computational framework for modeling the simultaneous spread of two COVID‐19 variants: a widely spread base variant and a new one, is established. The computational framework consists of a detailed database of a representative U.S. town and a high‐resolution agent‐based model that uses the Omicron variant as the base variant and offers flexibility in the incorporation of new variants. The results suggest that the spread of new variants can be contained with highly efficacious tests and mild loss of vaccine protection. However, the aggressiveness of the ongoing Omicron variant and the current waning vaccine immunity point to an endemic phase of COVID‐19, in which multiple variants will coexist and residents continue to suffer from infections.
Expanding the spectrum of clinical severity of AICA‐ribosiduria: Report of two siblings with mild phenotype caused by a novel pathogenic variant in ATIC gene
Authors: Galli Jessica , Valente Enza Maria , Dewulf Joseph , Franzoni Alessandra , Marie Sandrine , Plumari Massimo , Zanetti Federica , Fazzi Elisa
Published: November 2022

5‐Amino‐4‐imidazolecarboxamide‐ribosiduria (AICA‐ribosiduria) is an extremely rare inborn error of purine biosynthesis metabolism caused by pathogenic variants in ATIC gene that encodes a protein catalyzing the last steps of the de novo purine biosynthesis. To date, only six cases have been reported presenting a severe phenotype characterized by coarse facies and variable dysmorphic features, intrauterine and postnatal growth retardation, severe and early neurodevelopment delay, profound congenital visual deficit, scoliosis and, less frequently, epilepsy, aortic coarctation, chronic hepatic cytolysis, nephrocalcinosis and mild genitalia malformation. In this article, we report two new cases of AICA‐ribosiduria carrying new pathogenic variants in ATIC (c.421C>T;p.Arg141Ter and c.1753A>G p.Thr585Ala) associated to a milder phenotype compared to previously reported patients. Particularly, the children showed few dysmorphic features (bulging forehead, depressed nasal bridge, and flat nasal tip), postnatal growth impairment, psychomotor delay since the second year of life, reduction of visual acuity (from mild impairment to low vision from the age of 5 years and to partial blindness from the age of 7 years) and mild hepatic dysfunctions. Scoliosis as well as epilepsy, renal involvement, or genitalia malformation were not detected. According to literature data, we found an abnormal accumulation of intermediates of de novo purine biosynthesis in the urine of both siblings. This report expands the spectrum of phenotypic severity associated to ATIC biallelic pathogenic variants and prompts the need to investigate ultra‐rare causes of metabolic disorders such as AICA‐ribosiduria in subjects with early neurological and sensory involvement of uncertain etiology.
Fragmentation of rest periods, astrocyte activation, and cognitive decline in older adults with and without Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wu Rebecca , Tripathy Shreejoy , Menon Vilas , Yu Lei , Buchman Aron S. , Bennett David A. , De Jager Philip L. , Lim Andrew S. P.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Sleep disruption is associated with astrocyte activation and impaired cognition in model organisms. However, the relationship among sleep, astrocyte activation, and cognition in humans is uncertain.

Methods

We used RNA‐seq to quantify the prefrontal cortex expression of a panel of human activated astrocyte marker genes in 1076 older adults in the Religious Orders Study and Rush Memory and Aging Project, 411 of whom had multi‐day actigraphy prior to death. We related this to rest fragmentation, a proxy for sleep fragmentation, and to longitudinal cognitive function.

Results

Fragmentation of rest periods was associated with higher expression of activated astrocyte marker genes, which was associated with a lower level and faster decline of cognitive function.

Discussion

Astrocyte activation and fragmented rest are associated with each other and with accelerated cognitive decline. If experimental studies confirm a causal relationship, targeting sleep fragmentation and astrocyte activation may benefit cognition in older adults.

Highlights

Greater fragmentation of rest periods, a proxy for sleep fragmentation, is associated with higher composite expression of a panel of genes characteristic of activated astrocytes.

Increased expression of genes characteristic of activated astrocytes was associated with a lower level and more rapid decline of cognitive function, beyond that accounted for by the burden of amyloid and neurofibrillary tangle pathology.

Longitudinal and experimental studies are needed to delineate the causal relationships among sleep, astrocyte activation, and cognition.
Structural performance of alkali/acid‐ultrasound modified Agave fibers during the melt mixing process with polyvinyl alcohol
Authors: Sifuentes‐Nieves Israel , Hernandez‐Gamez Jose F. , Flores‐Silva Pamela C. , Gonzalez‐Morones Pablo , Yáñez‐Macías Roberto , Ramirez‐Vargas Eduardo , Hernández‐Hernández Ernesto
Published: November 2022

This study aims to investigate changes in the structural properties of alkali/acid‐ultrasound modified Agave fibers and their performance immersed on a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix with plasticizer during melt mixing processing. Structural analysis revealed that ultrasound enhances the effectiveness of the conventional alkaline/acid treatments to modify fibers since the simultaneous treatment increased the partial removal of lignocellulosic components, water molecules, and amorphous regions which improved their processability on a PVA matrix. Specific energy consumption values indicated that during melt mixing the modified fibers required more energy to expose the chains of cellulose fraction to function as an interaction site for PVA chains. Once the mixture was homogenized, the fiber‐matrix interactions promoted high viscosity, friction, and mechanical stress in the chamber. Therefore, the modified fibers restricted the interaction between plasticizer and PVA in the obtained films, resulting in a highly structured, and reinforced network, increasing the storage modulus as dynamic mechanical analysis indicated. These findings highlight a feasible way to valorize Agave fibers and allow the understanding of the matrix‐fiber interactions during melt mixing processing, useful to predict the structural and mechanical properties of the films.
In vivo transient expression of a viral silencing suppressor, NSs, derived from tomato spotted wilt virus decreases insect RNAi efficiencies
Authors: Kim Chul‐Young , Kim Yonggyun
Published: November 2022

Tomato spotted wilt virus is a single‐stranded RNA virus and causes a serious plant disease. Its horizontal transmission depends on some thrips species including Frankliniella occidentalis. Its genome encodes a nonstructural protein, nonstructural (NSs), which acts as a silencing suppressor and plays a crucial role in the pathogenicity by defending antiviral immunity using RNA interference (RNAi) in plant hosts. However, its physiological function as a silencing suppressor was not well clarified in insect vectors. This study assessed any change of RNAi efficiencies in two other insect systems by NSs expression. To this end, the gene was cloned into a eukaryotic expression vector and transiently expressed in two different insect species via in vivo transient expression (IVTE). After feeding the recombinant construct to non‐viruliferous F. occidentalis, NSs expression was observed for over 2 days in the thrips. Under this expression of NSs, thrips were rescued from a treatment of a toxic double stranded RNA specific to v‐ATPase. Interestingly, the thrips treated with IVTE significantly suppressed the expression of RNAi machinery genes such as SID and Dicer‐2. The recombinant vector expressing NSs was injected to a non‐vector insect, Spodoptera exigua, larvae. The larvae expressing NSs by the IVTE were highly susceptible to an infection of a RNA virus called iflavirus. These suggest that NSs acts as a silencing suppressor in insects and would be used for a synergist for RNA pathogens to control insect pests.
Biodistribution and delivery of oligonucleotide therapeutics to the central nervous system: Advances, challenges, and future perspectives
Authors: Goto Akihiko , Yamamoto Syunsuke , Iwasaki Shinji
Published: November 2022

Considerable advances have been made in the research and development of oligonucleotide therapeutics (OTs) for treating central nervous system (CNS) diseases, such as psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, because of their promising mode of action. However, due to the tight barrier function and complex physiological structure of the CNS, the efficient delivery of OTs to target the brain has been a major challenge, and intensive efforts have been made to overcome this limitation. In this review, we summarize the representative methodologies and current knowledge of biodistribution, along with the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationship of OTs in the CNS, which are critical elements for the successful development of OTs for CNS diseases. First, quantitative bioanalysis methods and imaging‐based approaches for the evaluation of OT biodistribution are summarized. Next, information available on the biodistribution profile, distribution pathways, quantitative PK/PD modeling, and simulation of OTs following intrathecal or intracerebroventricular administration are reviewed. Finally, the latest knowledge on the drug delivery systems to the brain via intranasal or systemic administration as noninvasive routes for improved patient quality of life is reviewed. The aim of this review is to enrich research on the successful development of OTs by clarifying OT distribution profiles and pathways to the target brain regions or cells, and by identifying points that need further investigation for a mechanistic approach to generate efficient OTs.
The mood effect in relation to impulsive online buying behavior
Authors: Arruda Filho Emílio José Montero , Oliveira Ronny Luis Sousa
Published: November 2022

This article analyzes impulsive buying behavior in scenarios where the consumer's negative or positive mood, oriented by emotional situations, stimulates an uncontrolled instinct in relation to the purchase. Four experimental studies were carried out to evaluate the influence of the mood state on impulsivity in different scenarios of consumption: online versus face‐to‐face shopping (Study 1); product characteristics – hedonic versus utilitarian product types in online environments (Study 2); the individual characteristic of self‐control in relation to the online purchase (Study 3a); and the individual characteristic of social value in relation to online consumption (Study 3b). The results demonstrate that consumers have greater impulsiveness within the online environment when they are in a positive mood, and that the positive mood maintains greater purchasing impulsiveness when the product is utilitarian, and when the consumer has low self‐control and/or high social value individually.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus stimulated pulmonary vascular inflammation and exosome biogenesis in rats
Authors: Rezaie Jafar , Hosseinpour Hossein , Rahbarghazi Reza , Keyhanmanesh Rana , Khanzadeh Shokoufeh , Mahdipour Mahdi , Soleimanpour Jafar , Ahmadi Mahdi
Published: November 2022

It has been shown that type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) changes the paracrine activity of several cell types. Whether the biogenesis of exosomes is changed during diabetic conditions is the subject of debate. Here, we investigated the effect of T2M on exosome biogenesis in rat pulmonary tissue. Rats received a high‐fat diet regime and a single low dose of Streptozocin to mimic the T2DM‐like condition. A total of 8 weeks after induction of T2DM, rats were subjected to several analyses. Besides histological examination, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM‐1) levels were detected using immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. Transcription of several genes such as IL‐1β, Alix, and Rab27b was calculated by real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay. Using western blot analysis, intracellular CD63 levels were measured. The morphology and exosome secretion activity were assessed using acetylcholinesterase (AChE) assay and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Histological results exhibited a moderate‐to‐high rate of interstitial pneumonia with emphysematous changes. IHC staining showed an increased VCAM‐1 expression in the diabetic lungs compared with the normal conditions (p < .05). Likewise, we found the induction of IL‐1β, and exosome‐related genes Alix and Rab27b under diabetic conditions compared with the control group (p < .05). Along with these changes, protein levels of CD63 and AChE activity were induced upon the initiation of T2DM, indicating accelerated exosome biogenesis. Taken together, current data indicated the induction of exosome biogenesis in rat pulmonary tissue affected by T2DM. It seems that the induction of inflammatory niche is touted as a stimulatory factor to accelerate exosome secretion.
Ubiquitin specific protease 46 potentiates triple negative breast cancer development by stabilizing PGAM1‐mediated glycolysis
Authors: Ke Longzhu , Jia Zhaoyang , Gao Wei , Luo Li
Published: November 2022

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a malignancy with high metastasis rate and poor prognosis. Limited drugs are effective for the treatment of TNBC patients. Ubiquitin specific proteases (USPs) are important posttranscription modulators that promote protein stability by reducing the ubiquitination of the proteins. Aberrant expression of USPs is involved in the development of numerous cancers. However, it remains poorly understood on the role of USP46 in TNBC growth and metastasis. In this study, we explored the clinical relevance, function and molecular mechanisms of USP46 in TNBC. USP46 expression was increased in breast cancer tissues. High expression of USP46 was associated with the poorer prognosis of the patients. Overexpression and knockdown experiments demonstrated that USP46 was critical for TNBC cell growth, migration, and tumorigenesis. Mechanistically, USP46 enhanced the protein stability of phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (PGAM1) via direct interaction. Importantly, USP46 stimulated the glycolysis and promoted the malignant growth of TNBC cells through upregulation of PGAM1. Our study reveals that USP46/PGAM1 axis contributes to TNBC progression and is a potential target for the treatment of TNBC patients.
Dominant immune cells in pregnancy and pregnancy complications: T helper cells (TH1/TH2, TH17/Treg cells), NK cells, MDSCs, and the immune checkpoints
Authors: Esparvarinha Mojgan , Madadi Sahar , Aslanian‐Kalkhoran Lida , Nickho Hamid , Dolati Sanam , Pia Helen , Danaii Shahla , Taghavi Simin , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: November 2022

Pregnancy problems including recurrent pregnancy loss, repeated implantation failure and pre‐eclampsia  are common problems in the reproductive ages. Different reasons such as genetic, immunological, and environmental agents and also infections could develop these complications. In those cases in which the cause of the abortion is diagnosed, the chance of a successful pregnancy is increased by eliminating defective factors. However, in patients with unknown causes, there may be an imbalance in immune cells pattern. As a matter of fact, an inappropriate immune response is often associated with a failed pregnancy. Hence, the focus of treatment is to increase tolerance, not to suppress maternal immune system. These findings are linked to an elevated number of Treg cells and immune checkpoints through normal pregnancy. The present review discusses the balance of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells, natural killer cells, T cells, and immune checkpoints, and also targeting them to maintain pregnancy and prevent associated complications.
Hybrid coronary revascularization (HCR) versus coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in multivessel coronary artery disease (MVCAD): A meta‐analysis of 14 studies comprising 4226 patients
Authors: Nagraj Sanjana , Tzoumas Andreas , Kakargias Fotis , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Ntoumaziou Athina , Kokkinidis Damianos G. , Alvarez Villela Miguel , Latib Azeem
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To compare the outcomes of hybrid coronary revascularization (HCR) with traditional coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in multivessel coronary artery disease (MVCAD).

Background

HCR has emerged as an alternative to CABG in patients with MVCAD. Through minimally invasive surgical techniques, HCR carries the potential for faster recovery postoperatively, fewer complications, and lower utilization of resources.

Methods

Systematic search of electronic databases was conducted up to December 2021 and studies comparing HCR with CABG in the treatment of MVCAD were included in this meta‐analysis. Primary outcomes of interest were incidence of 5‐year mortality and major adverse cardiac and cerebral event (MACCE).

Results

Fourteen studies (12 observational studies and 2 randomized controlled trials) comprising 4226 patients were included. The rates of 5‐year mortality (odds ratios [OR]: 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92−2.62; I2 = 83.0%) and long‐term MACCE (OR: 0.97; 95% CI: 0.47−2.01; I2 = 74.7%) were comparable between HCR and CABG groups. HCR was associated with a significantly lower likelihood of perioperative blood transfusion (OR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.25−0.51; I2 = 55.9%), shorter mean hospital stay (weighted mean difference: −2.04; 95% CI: −2.60 to −1.47; I2 = 54%), and risk of postoperative acute kidney injury (OR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.23−0.88; p = 0.02). CABG demonstrated a lower likelihood of requiring long‐term repeat revascularization (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.03−2.20; I2 = 18%) over a follow‐up duration of 29.14 ± 21.75 months.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis suggests that HCR is feasible and safe for the treatment of MVCAD. However, benefits of HCR should be carefully weighed against the increased long‐term risk of repeat‐revascularization when selecting patients, and further studies evaluating differences in long‐term mortality between HCR and CABG are required.
Serotonin syndrome due to concomitant use of linezolid and methadone
Authors: Masbough Farnoosh , Roshanzamiri Soheil , Rahimi Mitra , Sahraei Zahra , Evini Peyman Erfan Talab
Published: November 2022

Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life‐threatening adverse drug reaction typically caused by a single or combination of two or more medications with serotonergic properties due to increased serotonin release. Our case is a 60‐year‐old drug‐addict man who was admitted to the poisoning department of Loghman hospital with methadone poisoning. On the fifth day of hospitalization and after initiating the linezolid treatment for VAP, the patient began to run a fever with agitation, tremor, spontaneous clonus movement in the hands, and tachycardia. Due to patients' manifestations and after ruling out other diagnoses, serotonin syndrome was confirmed with the possibility of concomitant use of linezolid and methadone. Linezolid administration was promptly discontinued, and vancomycin therapy was initiated (1000 mg twice a day intravenously). Supportive therapies were performed. Finally, tremor, rigidity, and clonus movement disappeared within 48 h.
Successful regenerative response of a severe bone defect in a right lower central incisor affected by a cemental tear
Authors: Nagahara Takayoshi , Takeda Katsuhiro , Inoue Sadayuki , Wada Keinoshin , Shiba Hideki
Published: November 2022

Cone‐beam computed tomography and clinical examinations including pulp vital testing and pocket probing depth showed a cemental tear with a severe labial alveolar bony defect, but no endodontic lesions, in #25, which had a sinus tract at the labial site, in a 75‐year‐old woman.
A case of chronic myelogenous leukemia with the T315I mutation who progressed to myeloid blast phase and was successfully treated with asciminib
Authors: Tomassetti Sarah , Lee Jennifer , Qing Xin
Published: November 2022

Patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) harboring the T315I mutation who progress to blast phase CML while on ponatinib may be successfully treated with asciminib monotherapy following induction therapy with cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Case of atrial septal defect closure relieving refractory migraine
Authors: Hoshina Yuta , Iijima Hiroyuki , Kubota Mitsuru , Murakami Tsutomu , Nagai Akira
Published: November 2022

The effectiveness of patent foramen ovale closure for migraine has been previously discussed. By contrast, very few studies have reported the association between migraine and atrial septal defect closure. Here, we report a case in which atrial septal defect closure effectively relieved migraine headaches.
Anaphylaxis after prick‐to‐prick skin test to seafood allergy: A rare adverse event
Authors: Cherrez‐Ojeda Ivan , Robles‐Velasco Karla , Osorio María F. , Farfán Bajaña María José , Intriago Belen , M. Mobayedh Hassan , Al‐Nesf Maryam Ali
Published: November 2022

Allergies to seafood are common all over the world. The prick‐to‐pricktest is used to diagnose allergic reactions. In this article, a femalepatient suffered an anaphylactic reaction 5 minutes following a Prick‐to‐Prick skin test. Therefore, it is important to stratify, recognize and treatthe anaphylactic reaction promptly.