bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Incidence of Shoot and Fruit Borer [Earias vittella (Fab.)] on Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.)] in Relation to Abiotic Factors
Authors: Sharma Aayush Kumar , Kumar Lavlesh , Seervi Sitaram , Sanjay Meena
Published: January 2025

The present investigation was carried out during kharif season 2023 at Agricultural Research Farm of RBS College Bichpuri, Agra (Uttar Pradesh). During the investigation, it has been revealed that the infestation of the shoot and fruit borer, Earias vittella (Fab.) on okra during the kharif season commenced from shoots 31th SMW (3.20%) and fruit borer 35th SMW (3.20%). The infestation ranged from shoot (3.20 - 29.70%) and fruit borer (3.20 - 36.42%), with the peak occurring in the 36th (29.70) and 39th (36.42) SMW and continuing until harvesting. The percentage of shoot and fruit borer infestation has a positive significant correlation with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and wind velocity. However, morning relative humidity, rainfall and sunshine hour has a negative significant correlation during kharif season 2023.
Assessment of Genetic Divergence and Character Association Studies on Germplasm Accessions of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Dhruw Kusumlata , Gauraha Deepak , Sao Abhinav
Published: January 2025

In this study, fifty-five rice germplasm accessions were used along with five checks, namely IR64, Swarna, Jaya, DRR Dhan 42 and MTU1010, for evaluating genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance during kharif 2023. The analysis of variance revealed extremely large genotype differences for each of the 16 traits under investigation. The highest heritability measures were found in number of filled grains per panicle followed by paddy breadth, paddy length:breadth ratio, brown rice length:breadth ratio, 100 seed weight, paddy length, plant height, brown rice breadth, number of effective tillers per plant, brown rice length, number of unfilled grains per panicle, grain yield per plant, panicle length, and harvest index. High heritability with high genetic advance shown by characters such as plant height, number of filled grains per panicle, paddy length and brown rice length this indicates that the heritability is due to additive gene action and is found least influenced by environment. Hence, the desirable characters with high heritability coupled with genetic advance can be used for selection. Grain yield per plant exhibits a positive and highly significant correlation with the days to 50% flowering (0.383), number of effective tillers per plant (0.315), number of filled grain per panicle (0.219) and paddy length (0.219). In terms of direct effect, paddy length (4.735) shows the highest impact, followed by brown rice length (1.183), number of filled grain per panicle (0.578), days to 50% flowering (0.347), panicle length (0.135), harvest index (0.082).
In vitro Analysis of the Pharmaceutical Interactions between Verapamil Hydrochloride and Citric Acid
Authors: Akter Kazi Aysha , Rakib Md. Mohiuddin Rahaman , Mokta  , Khatun Mst Nasrin , Oafa Maliha Monoara
Published: January 2025

The objective of this study is to investigate the combination of drug-drug interactions involving different functional groups by assessing the interaction of a BCS class IV compound (Verapamil Hydrochloride) with Citric acid in various ratios, thereby enhancing the understanding of pharmacological implications. This study elucidated the compatibility between Verapamil Hydrochloride (HCl) and Citric acid, demonstrating an approach to enhance the solubility, permeability, and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs in pharmaceutical applications.
The method of solvent evaporation was utilized for the preparation of solid dispersions. This process involved dissolving the active pharmaceutical ingredient and citric acid in ethanol, evaporating the solvent to yield a solvent-free film, and mechanically reducing the residue using a mortar and pestle. The resultant fine powder was sieved through a 40-mesh filter and appropriately stored in vials for subsequent analyses.
FT-IR spectra and an HPLC-sensitive method were employed to evaluate the solubility profile and interaction dynamics of the compound. FT-IR spectra of VPM HCl and its physical mixtures with citric acid at ratios of 1:3, 1:5, and 1:7 were obtained using an FT-IR spectrophotometer. The spectra revealed structural and functional group alterations, quantified by analyzing the magnitude and cumulative area of the peaks corresponding to the structural constituents.
In accordance with the established linearity, the retention times for VPM HCl, Sample 1, Sample 2, and Sample 3 were recorded as 6.8 ± 0.2, 2.7 ± 0.1, 5.5 ± 0.2, and 3.8 ± 0.1 minutes, respectively, across a concentration range of 1–100 µg/mL. For all analytes, the intra-assay and inter-assay biases were observed to be within 15% and 13.4%, respectively. Furthermore, In vitro evaluations of physical combinations of Verapamil HCl and Citric acid samples revealed minimal interaction.
These findings emphasize the stability and compatibility of Verapamil HCl and citric acid, demonstrating citric acid’s role as a reliable excipient for enhancing drug solubility and bioavailability without compromising therapeutic integrity.
Optimizing Nano-DAP Application for Enhanced Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L) Productivity
Authors: C.S HemanthKumara, , C. Sunil, , C. J Sridhara, , Ganapathi  , H. B Mallikarjuna, , Kadam Praveen V , H R Jeevan , N Umme Seema
Published: January 2025

A field experiment was conducted at KSNUAHS, Shivamogga, India during Kharif 2023 to evaluate the effect of nano DAP on the growth and yield of groundnut. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with twelve treatments and replicated thrice. Various levels and methods of nano DAP treatments were evaluated, among the tested treatments application of 100 per cent recommended dose of N & P along with seed treatment of nano DAP 2.5 ml kg-1 of seeds and one foliar spray of nano DAP 4 ml l-1 at 30 DAS (T11) recorded higher plant height (58.50 cm), number of branches (15.92), number of effective root nodules at 30 and 60 DAS (47.43 and 85.27 respectively), the yield attributes like number of pods plant-1 (53.40), test weight (42.48 g), pod yield (3562.5 kg ha-1), kernel yield (2659.73 kg ha-1), haulm yield (4301.47 kg ha-1) and shelling percentage (74.69 %) were also found significantly higher in the same treatment. It also recorded higher gross returns (2,16,980 ₹ ha-1), net returns (1,41,716 ₹ ha-1), and B: C ratio (2.88) compared to the recommended dose of fertilizers, 12.4 per cent increased pod yield was noted with nano DAP application. This increase in yield can aid in ensuring food security, while the environmentally friendly properties of Nano DAP support the practice of sustainable agriculture.
Impact of Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) on Water Saving and Yield of Transplanted Rice
Authors: S.K Natarajan. , R Gowsalya. , P Kathirvelan. , S.R Venkatachalam. , S Jaya Prabhavathi. , S Elankavi. , J Bhuvaneswari. , T Sampathkumar. , N Satheesh Kumar. , S Pazhalanivelan.
Published: January 2025

A large-scale demonstrations was conducted on Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) on water saving and yield of Transplanted Rice in Mettur-Noyyal confluence sub basin areas of Tamil Nadu, India, by the Tapioca and castor Research station, Yethapur from the year 2019 to 2023. For adopting the safe AWDI, the depth of ponded water on the field is monitored using a ‘Field Water Tube’ which is made of 40-cm long plastic pipe having a diameter of 15 cm which is perforated with holes on all sides. The AWDI technology consumed ranges between 871 mm to 950 mm of irrigation water, higher water use efficiency (6.22 to 7.53 kg ha-1 mm-1) and number of irrigations were recorded between 22 to 30. Adopting AWDI in rice resulted in the highest yield of 7045 kg ha-1 compared to the conventional method, which produced 5927 kg ha-1 across all experiments. The highest gross returns (Rs. 131927 ha-1), net return (Rs. 77438 ha-1) and BCR (2.99) were observed in adoption of AWDI. The AWDI will be an appropriate technology for water saving in rice. This technology saves up to 49 per cent of irrigation water without reducing yield, and it reduces the number of irrigations by 12 compared to farmers.
Assessing the Impact of Residue Retention on Soil Biochemical Properties of Vertisols in a Maize-Chickpea Cropping System under Different Tillage Practices in Central India
Authors: Agrawal Komal , Yadav Shashi S. , Vishwakarma Anand Kumar , Narvariya Raghavendra , Meena Bharat Prakash , Parmar Rakesh , Mohanty Santosh Ranjan , Kollah Bharati , Trivedi Sudhir Kumar
Published: January 2025

This study examined, the potential effect of different residue retention practices on soil biochemical properties in Vertisol of central India. Experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three different levels of crop residue retention (RR); 0%, 30%,90% in maize chickpea cropping system over conventional tillage (CT). The parameters assessed were total organic carbon (TOC), β-glucosidase activity, dehydrogenase activity (DHA), fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis activity (FDA), and stratification ratio. Soil samples were collected from 0–15 cm and 15–30 cm depths at the end of the cropping cycle to evaluate the effects of different residue management strategies. At the surface soil (0–15 cm), TOC was significantly higher under 90% RR (15.24 g kg⁻¹) and 30% RR (12.16 g kg⁻¹) compared to CT (9.39 g kg⁻¹). Enzymatic activities also showed significant improvements with increased residue retention. DHA at 0–15 cm was highest under 90% RR (103.57 µg TPF g⁻¹ day⁻¹), followed by 30% RR (84.63 µg TPF g⁻¹ day⁻¹) and CT (70.75 µg TPF g⁻¹ day⁻¹). A similar trend was observed for FDA, where 90% RR recorded 26.13 µg fluorescein g⁻¹ h⁻¹, exceeding CT (22.91 µg fluorescein g⁻¹ h⁻¹). β-glucosidase activity was also highest under 90% RR (169.60 µg PNG g⁻¹ soil h⁻¹), with reduced values at greater soil depths. Enzymatic activities (β-glucosidase, DHA, and FDA) exhibited a strong correlation (p < 0.01) with TOC content and were also strongly correlated, confirming their sensitivity to management practices. Stratification ratios did not vary significantly across residue retention levels, likely due to the high clay content protecting TOC and enzymes. These findings highlight the potential of residue retention to enhance soil health and serve as reliable indicators of soil quality in sustainable cropping systems.
System under Seismic Loadings and Seismic Response of Curve Bridge with Frictional Pendulum System under Multidimensional Seismic Excitation
Authors: Zhang Boyu
Published: January 2025

The earthquake exhibits significant abruptness and extensive destruction, while the bridge is crucial for linking the transportation hub pre- and post-earthquake. Ensuring the bridge's seismic resilience is vital for minimizing casualties and property damage, as well as facilitating rescue operations. This study examines the impact of multidimensional seismic excitation on the seismic performance of a curved bridge utilizing a friction pendulum. A finite element model of a four-span curved simply supported beam girder is developed using Sap2000. Seismic excitation artificially manufactured with MATLAB. The analysis focuses on the influence of the seismic wave's characteristic period and the friction coefficient of the friction pendulum on the seismic response of vibration-isolated bridges, employing the nonlinear time-distance method. The findings indicate that the characteristic period of seismic waves exerts varying effects on distinct locations of the bridge structure, with vertical seismic waves significantly impacting the seismic response of the abutment structure, the maximum rate of change exceeds 40%. Furthermore, as the friction coefficient escalates, the varying dimensions of seismic waves increasingly affect different locations of the bridge structure, while the seismic response of the abutment follows a consistent pattern of change, the minimal value is achieved at a friction factor of 0.07.
Bacterial Contamination and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Healthcare Workers' Mobile Phones in Hospitals at Khartoum City
Authors: Jelani Mansour Awad Mansour EL , Aloob Husham M Taha , Ismail Samia S Mohamed , Arman Amira H , Ibrahem Ahmed AbdElhadi Abdlhamed , Ali Abdelhakam H.
Published: January 2025

Background: Mobile phones used by healthcare workers (HCWs) have emerged as potential reservoirs for pathogens, posing a risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of bacterial contamination on HCWs' mobile phones, determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and compare findings with global data.
Methods: We collected swabs from 94 mobile phones of HCWs across two hospitals in Khartoum. We identified bacterial isolates using standard microbiological techniques and evaluated antimicrobial resistance using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method.
Results: Bacterial contamination appeared in 93.6% of mobile phones. Gram-positive bacteria, such as Coagulase-negative staphylococci (36%) and S. aureus (31.8%) were prevalent. Gram-negative organisms were isolated. The predominant organisms were Klebsiella pneumoniae 15 (37%) isolates followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa 12 (30%) isolates, Proteus mirabilis 5 (12%) isolates, Acintobacter baumannii 4 (10%), Enterobacter spp 3(8%) and Escherichia coli 1 (3%). Antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed high resistance to penicillin among Gram-positive isolates. The tests revealed no multidrug-resistant (MDR) or extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production.
Conclusion: HCWs' mobile phones represent a critical vector for bacterial transmission in hospitals. Stringent infection control measures and regular disinfection should mitigate the associated risks.
Remote tracking system eases methadone take‐home process
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: October 2023

For anyone concerned about diversion of methadone take‐homes, there's a solution in technology. It's a remote tracking system called Sonara. Michael Giles, M.D., who was a resident in psychiatry working in an opioid treatment program (OTP, commonly known as a methadone clinic), founded Sonara Health after his experience there: he learned that many patients couldn't stay in treatment because they couldn't make it to the clinic for the required number of times to maximize methadone take‐homes. He founded Sonara before the COVID‐19 pandemic, which resulted in the federal government's liberalization of take‐home rules (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.32664). But still, many patients do not get as many take‐homes as they would like, and this is partly due to the worries by OTPs about patient and public safety, and the concerns by drug enforcement and government officials about diversion (related to public safety).
2D Nanozymes Modulate Gut Microbiota and T‐Cell Differentiation for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Management
Authors: Jiang Kai , Cao Xiangjing , Wu Haitao , Xu Yifeng , Liu Lulu , Qian Haisheng , Miao Zhaohua , Wang Hua , Ma Yan
Published: October 2023

Intestinal commensal microbiota dysbiosis and immune dysfunction are significant exacerbating factors in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To address these problems, Pluronic F‐127‐coated tungsten diselenide (WSe2@F127) nanozymes are developed by simple liquid‐phase exfoliation. The abundant valence transitions of elemental selenium (Se2−/Se4+) and tungsten (W4+/W6+) enable the obtained WSe2@F127 nanozymes to eliminate reactive oxygen/nitrogen species. In addition, the released tungsten ions are capable of inhibiting the proliferation of Escherichia coli. In a model of dextran sodium sulfate‐induced colitis, WSe2@F127 nanozymes modulate the gut microbiota by increasing the abundance of bacteria S24‐7 and significantly reducing the abundance of Enterobacteriaceae. Moreover, WSe2@F127 nanozymes inhibit T‐cell differentiation and improve intestinal immune barrier function in a model of Crohn's disease. The WSe2@F127 nanozymes effectively alleviate IBD by reducing oxidative stress damage, modulating intestinal microbial populations, and remodeling the immune barrier.
Rational Design of Stimuli‐Responsive Inorganic 2D Materials via Molecular Engineering: Toward Molecule‐Programmable Nanoelectronics
Authors: Muñoz Jose
Published: October 2023

The ability of electronic devices to act as switches makes digital information processing possible. Succeeding graphene, emerging inorganic 2D materials (i2DMs) have been identified as alternative 2D materials to harbor a variety of active molecular components to move the current silicon‐based semiconductor technology forward to a post‐Moore era focused on molecule‐based information processing components. In this regard, i2DMs benefits are not only for their prominent physiochemical properties (e.g., the existence of bandgap), but also for their high surface‐to‐volume ratio rich in reactive sites. Nonetheless, since this field is still in an early stage, having knowledge of both i) the different strategies for molecularly functionalizing the current library of i2DMs, and ii) the different types of active molecular components is a sine qua non condition for a rational design of stimuli‐responsive i2DMs capable of performing logical operations at the molecular level. Consequently, this Review provides a comprehensive tutorial for covalently anchoring ad hoc molecular components—as active units triggered by different external inputs—onto pivotal i2DMs to assess their role in the expanding field of molecule‐programmable nanoelectronics for electrically monitoring bistable molecular switches. Limitations, challenges, and future perspectives of this emerging field which crosses materials chemistry with computation are critically discussed.
Opto‐Electrochemical Synaptic Memory in Supramolecularly Engineered Janus 2D MoS2
Authors: Wang Ye , Han Bin , Mayor Marcel , Samorì Paolo
Published: October 2023

Artificial synapses combining multiple yet independent signal processing strategies in a single device are key enabler to achieve high‐density of integration, energy efficiency, and fast data manipulation in brain‐like computing. By taming functional complexity, the use of hybrids comprising multiple materials as active components in synaptic devices represents a powerful route to encode both short‐term potentiation (STP) and long‐term potentiation (LTP) in synaptic circuitries. To meet such a grand challenge, herein a novel Janus 2D material is developed by dressing asymmetrically the two surfaces of 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) with an electrochemically‐switchable ferrocene (Fc)/ ferrocenium (Fc+) redox couple and an optically‐responsive photochromic azobenzene (Azo). Upon varying the magnitude of the electrochemical stimulus, it is possible to steer the transition between STP and LTP, thereby either triggering electrochemical doping of Fc/Fc+ pair on MoS2 or controlling an adsorption/desorption process of such redox species on MoS2. In addition, a lower magnitude LTP is recorded by activating the photoisomerization of azobenzene chemisorbed molecules and therefore modulating the dipole‐induced doping of the 2D semiconductor. Significantly, the interplay of electrochemical and optical stimuli makes it possible to construct artificial synapses where LTP can be boosted to 4‐bit (16 memory states) while simultaneously functioning as STP.
Morphology of Silver Particles and Films Arising from Particle‐Free Silver Ink Droplet Evaporation
Authors: Zhang Weipeng , Yang Jun , Knopf George K.
Published: October 2023

The evaporation of particle‐free silver ink droplets on heated substrates directly impacts the morphology of the resultant silver particles and electrically conductive inkjet‐printed films. In this work, COMSOL Multiphysics simulations of the droplet evaporation process are used to help explain the fluidic processes responsible for the experimental observations. The results show that the silver particle morphology depends on its location within the evaporating droplet where large particles (3 to 5 µm) accumulate at the center and smaller ones (1 to 2 µm) in the area beyond the central region. The smallest particles (≈500 nm) are near the contact line. Without the fluoro‐surfactant FS‐31, an inner ring with 3 µm particles also appears within the evaporating droplet. The large particles at the central region originate from the fluid near the droplet's apex due to the accumulation of polyacrylamide in the concentrated ethylene glycol solvent near the flow‐abundant apex. Furthermore, the capillary flow along the fluid–air interface transports silver ions and particles throughout the droplet, causing the larger particles to fall onto the substrate at the central vortex, forming the inner ring. The simulations also demonstrate that the evaporating droplet heterogeneously accumulates ethylene glycol in a sandhill formation at the bottom center.
Synthesis of Pentatomic Spirolactams via Cobalt‐Catalyzed [4+1] Spirocyclization of Aromatic Amides with Cyclic Diazo Compounds
Authors: Li Bin , Xie Mengmeng , Li Jingyu , Shen Nana , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: October 2023

In this paper, a non‐Cp* cobalt‐catalyzed [4+1] spirocyclization of aromatic amides with cyclic diazo compounds for the synthesis of pentatomic spirolactams is presented. The reaction features with high regio/chemoselectivity by using cheap and commercially available base metal catalyzed C−H/N−H bond functionalization. Moreover, the practicability of this developed protocol is further demonstrated by the removal of the directing group and gram‐scale synthesis.
Release behavior and biodegradability of controlled‐release potassium fertilizer encapsulated in starch–alginate matrix
Authors: Chen Ying Si , Phang Siew Wei , Shuib Anis Suhaila , Tee Jen Looi
Published: October 2023

This work presents the fabrication of potassium chloride encapsulated in starch–alginate matrix, crosslinked by calcium chloride to form hydrogel bead. Sixteen formulations (S1–S16) were designed in four levels sodium alginate (SA 0.5% w/v to 2.0% w/v) and potassium chloride (KCl 5% w/v to 20% w/v) with 10% w/v starch and 0.75 M calcium chloride. The analysis reviewed that a higher concentration of sodium alginate, coupled with a lower KCl concentration, results in enhanced encapsulation efficiency. Notably, hydrogel beads formulated with higher concentrations of SA exhibited a more uniform, spherical shape with compact surfaces. Higher SA concentration has lower the swelling of the beads and therefore reduces its potassium release in general. In another word, with higher SA concentration, the release rate was at a better control to the expected release timeframe. On the contrary, it was also observed that the sample's dissolution in water after 24 h increased with the rising SA content. A higher concentration of sodium alginate led to an increased biodegradation rate, with the biodegradation rate increasing by 25% as the SA concentration was raised from 0.5% to 2% over a period of 5 days. In conclusion, this study represents a preliminary exploration into the viability of encapsulating potassium within a starch/SA matrix, with the optimal ratio of starch, alginate, and potassium was found to be 10:2:5. The significance of this work lies in its potential applications within agricultural practices, particularly in drought‐prone regions, owing to its hydrogel properties. By precisely tailoring the starch, alginate, and potassium ratios, this study opens avenues for further advancements in sustainable nutrient delivery systems.
Nanoengineering of Thin Film V2O5 Cathode Interfaces via Atomic Layer Deposition for use with Polymer Gel Ionic Liquid Electrolytes
Authors: O'Donoghue Aaron , Shine Micheál , Povey Ian M. , Rohan James F.
Published: October 2023

In this work we show high capacity and cycle‐life performance, for electrodeposited, crystalline V2O5 thin film cathodes protected by a 1 nm ALD alumina deposit for use with Li‐metal and ionic liquid electrolyte based microbatteries. Al2O3 coatings thicker than 1 nm are shown to decrease the performance of the V2O5 thin film cathodes. The ionic liquid outperforms an organic electrolyte at 1 C rates with an initial capacity of 148 mAh g−1 and capacity retention of 97 % at cycle 50. A polymer gel analogue of the ionic liquid electrolyte in combination with the 1 nm Al2O3 coated V2O5 had an initial capacity of 139 mAh/g with a capacity retention of 93.5 % to cycle 800, illustrating high capacity and extended cycle life.
Optimized stereoselective and scalable synthesis of five‐membered cyclic trans‐β‐amino acid building blocks via reductive amination
Authors: Hong Jungwoo , Lee Wonchul , Lee Hee‐Seung
Published: October 2023

We present an optimized method for the stereoselective synthesis of five‐membered alicyclic and heterocyclic trans‐β‐amino acid derivatives. The process involves a reductive amination of β‐keto esters using chiral auxiliary amines, with formic acid acting as a facilitator for rapid, diastereoselective reductions under gentle conditions. Our approach notably enhances isolated yields and permits the scalable production of trans‐2‐aminocyclopentanecarboxylic acid (trans‐ACPC), 4‐aminopyrrolidine‐3‐carboxylic acid (trans‐APC), 4‐aminotetrahydrofuran‐3‐carboxylic acid (trans‐ATFC), and 4‐aminotetrahydrothiophene‐3‐carboxylic acid (trans‐ATTC) building blocks.
A sensitive ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous quantification of assay and trace‐level genotoxic tosylate analogs (methyl and ethyl) in empagliflozin and its tablet dosage forms
Authors: Nakka Srinivas , Muchakayala Siva Krishna , Manabolu Surya Surendra Babu
Published: October 2023

This study performed the simultaneous quantification of assay and two alkyl sulfonate (tosylate) analogs of empagliflozin (EGZ), specifically methyl 4‐methyl benzene sulfonate (MMBS) and ethyl 4‐methyl benzene sulfonate (EMBS) in EGZ, and its finished dosage form using an accurate and sensitive ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry method. The separation was achieved on a Waters Acquity BEH Shield RP18 (100 × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm) column in gradient elution mode with 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile as the mobile phases and a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. For simultaneous quantification, the multiple reaction monitoring technique was utilized. The procedure was successfully validated in accordance with the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) guidelines. The peak areas of both impurities, along with their concentrations, exhibited a good relationship with Pearson's correlation coefficient (R), which was >0.999 in the range of 0.3–6 ppm with an EGZ concentration of 2 mg/mL. The percentage recoveries from the limit of quantitation (LOQ) to 200% to the specification level were in the range of 94.82%–102.92%, whereas the percentage relative standard deviation (%RSD) was <2. Therefore, this method is rapid and accurate to quantify MMBS, EMBS, and EGZ assay simultaneously from the marketed tablet dosage forms of EGZ for commercial release and stability sample testing.
Repetitive abdominal pain in a reproductive‐aged woman
Authors: Chan Minnie , Ono Yuko , Kotani Joji , Itou Takashi , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: October 2023

Key Clinical Message

We report a young woman with ileocecal endometriosis who presented with repeated abdominal pain. Under hormonal effects, the endometrium may proliferate and cause bleeding in the bowel wall, leading to cyclical abdominal pain. When recurring abdominal pain is observed in reproductive‐aged women, physicians should always be aware of gastrointestinal endometriosis.
Targeting androgen receptor (AR) with a synthetic peptide increases apoptosis in triple negative breast cancer and AR‐expressing prostate cancer cell lines
Authors: Jamshidi Mazdak , Keshavarzi Fatemeh , Amini Sabrieh , Laher Ismail , Gheysarzadeh Ali , Davari Kambiz
Published: October 2023

Background

The androgen receptor (AR) has been studied as an approach to cancer therapy.

Aims

We used human breast cancer‐derived cells with high, low, and very low expression levels of AR, in addition to prostate cancer‐derived LNCaP and DU‐145 cells as a positive and negative controls to examine apoptosis caused by a synthetic peptide that targets ARs.

Methods and Results

The peptide was produced to inhibit AR transactivation in breast cancer cell lines. We then measured cell viability, caspase‐3 activity, and the ratio of Bax/Bcl‐2. The findings indicated that the peptide (100–500 nM) in the presence of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) reduced cell growth in cells with high and low expression level of AR (p < .001), but not in cells with very low levels of AR. Treatment with 100–500 nM of peptide activated caspase‐3 and increased the ratio of Bax/Bcl‐2 in cells with high and low expression levels of AR. Also, increasing concentrations of the peptide (100–500 nM) reduced BrdU incorporation in the presence of DHT and promoted apoptosis in cells with high and low expression levels of AR (p < .001).

Conclusion

The findings indicate the peptide significantly increased apoptosis in cancer cells.
Genome‐wide identification of nitrate transporter 1/peptide transporter family (NPF) in cassava (Manihot esculenta) and functional analysis of MeNPF5.4 and MeNPF6.2 in response to nitrogen and salinity stresses in rice
Authors: Ji Li , Song Linhu , Zou Liangping , Liu Huiying , Li Shi , Wang Changyu , Zhang Runcong , Yang Jingyu , Zhang Yan , Wang Xingmei , Yun Liu , Qu Xiao , Ji Xiang , Sun Jianbo , Zheng Lanjie , Ruan Mengbin , Zheng Xu
Published: October 2023

Nitrogen is a major driving force for the improvement of crop yield worldwide but brings detrimental effects on ecosystems. Therefore, enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is vital for sustainable agriculture. The nitrate transporter (NRT1/NPF) family associated with nitrogen uptake and utilization is indispensable to the improvement of NUE in crops. As an important food security crop, cassava (Manihot esculenta) produces an acceptable yield in nutrient‐deficient soil. Here, we identified and systematically analyzed the NPF gene family in cassava, including phylogenetic relationship, chromosome location, gene duplication, and gene expression in response to different nitrogen supplies. The stem is involved in nitrogen transportation and remobilization. Gene expression analysis revealed that MeNPF5.4 and MeNPF6.2 were specifically expressed in the stem, and have diverse expression in different nitrogen conditions. To facilitate the functional analysis of MeNPF5.4 and MeNPF6.2, we constructed their overexpression (OE) lines in rice. A NO3− flux assay showed that MeNPF5.4 and MeNPF6.2 OE lines exhibited a marked decrease in NO3− efflux and significant NO3− influx compared with WT, which suggests that they might have contributed to the NUE improvement of rice. Notably, overexpressing MeNPF5.4 showed increased grain size, grain number, and grain weight per panicle. More importantly, the MeNPF5.4 OE line contributed to salt tolerance. Nevertheless, an obvious reduction in grain number and grain weight per panicle was detected in the MeNPF6.2 OE line compared with WT. Strikingly, the MeNPF6.2 OE line showed higher salt stress tolerance than WT in LN conditions. Taken together, our results demonstrated that MeNPF5.4 can potentially improve the NUE and salt stress tolerance of rice, which reveals valuable breeding targets to improve crop yield and stress tolerance.
New long‐standing metabolites of 17α‐methyltestosterone are detected in HepG2 cell in vitro metabolic model and in human urine
Authors: Angelis Yiannis S. , Sakellariou Panagiotis , Fragkaki Argyro G. , Karnava Sophia , Goula Olga , Kiousi Polyxeni , Kioukia‐Fougia Nassia , Georgakopoulos Costas , Loui Stella , Chlapana Fotini , Kletsas Dimitris
Published: October 2023

Novel metabolites of the anabolic androgenic steroid 17α‐methyltestosterone have been detected in HepG2 cell in vitro metabolic model and in human urine. Their detection was accomplished through targeted gas chromatography–(tandem) mass spectrometry analysis that has been based on microscale synthesized standards. The related synthesis and the gas chromatography–(tandem) mass spectrometry characterization of the analytical standards are described. All newly presented metabolites have a fully reduced steroid A‐ring with either an 17,17‐dimethyl‐18‐nor‐Δ13 structure or they have been further oxidized at position 16 of the steroid backbone. Metabolites with 17,17‐dimethyl‐18‐nor‐Δ13 structure may be considered as side products of phase II metabolic sulfation of the 17β‐hydroxy group of methyltestosterone or its reduced tetrahydro‐methyltestosterone metabolites 17α‐methyl‐5β‐androstane‐3α,17β‐diol and 17α‐methyl‐5α‐androstane‐3α,17β‐diol that produce the known epimeric 17β‐methyl‐5β‐androstane‐3α,17α‐diol and 17β‐methyl‐5α‐androstane‐3α,17α‐diol metabolites. The prospective of these new metabolites to increase detection time windows and improve identification was investigated by applying the World Anti‐doping Agency TD2021IDCR criteria. The new metabolites, presented herein, complement the current knowledge on the 17α‐methyltestosterone metabolism and in some cases can be used as additional long‐term markers in the frame of sport doping drug testing.
Pro‐anorexia coaches prey on individuals with eating disorders
Authors: Simons E. I. , Noteboom F. , van Furth E. F.
Published: October 2023

Objective

While studies have focused on pro‐ana communities and pro‐anorexia websites, no research has been conducted on the presence of pro‐anorexia coaches within these communities. This study aimed to gain insight into the modus operandi of pro‐anorexia coaches.

Method

First, three fake profiles were used to attempt interaction with pro‐anorexia coaches (n = 31). Second, an online questionnaire on experiences with pro‐anorexia coaches was completed by 79 respondents. Third, a follow‐up in‐depth interview was conducted with 14 of these respondents.

Results

The results show that pro‐anorexia coaches' behavior fits a five‐staged model which has similarities to stages of online grooming. They focus on (1) building trust and developing a dependency relationship with the aim of (2) obtaining sexually explicit materials. Subsequently, they (3) increase pressure, (4) utilize blackmail methods with acquired content, and (5) groom respondents to meet in person.

Discussion

Pro‐anorexia coaches deliberately abuse vulnerable young people who suffer from eating disorders to receive sexually explicit material or to meet face‐to‐face with a sexual intention. This study shows that the modus operandi of pro‐ana coaches is similar to online grooming. Clinical professionals need to be aware of this practice to detect victims and potential victims in order to support and treat them. Prevention is invaluable to further combat pro‐anorexia coaches and protect potential victims.

Public Significance

Individuals with an eating disorder are avid internet users. A minority frequent pro‐anorexia websites and fora seeking help in losing weight. This study showed that pro‐anorexia coaches prey on these individuals, often to obtain sexually explicit content. The modus operandi of pro‐anorexia coaches shows similarities to online grooming. Awareness of this phenomenon and the way in which pro‐anorexia coaches operate is valuable for clinicians, parents, and teachers.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with low bone mineral density in Asian adolescents with anorexia nervosa and atypical anorexia nervosa
Authors: Davis Courtney , Lie Hannah Marian Mei En , Vasanwala Rashida Farhad , Tan Juliet Sher Kit , Oh Jean Yin , Rajasegaran Kumudhini , Chew Chu Shan Elaine
Published: October 2023

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for low bone mineral density (BMD) at diagnosis in Asian adolescent females with anorexia nervosa (AN) and atypical AN.

Method

We analyzed the BMD results for 213 patients between 10 and 18 years of age, with AN and atypical AN receiving care at a pediatric hospital in Singapore. We used linear regression analyses to determine if type of eating disorder, premorbid weight, and duration of amenorrhea were risk factors for low BMD. For a subset of patients with repeat BMD evaluation, we used paired t‐tests to assess the impact of weight or menstrual restoration on the change in BMD.

Results

The prevalence of BMD height‐for‐age Z‐scores <−2 at presentation was higher in patients with AN (13.0%) than atypical AN (2.3%) (p = .034). In multivariate regression, a diagnosis of atypical AN was protective against low BMD at the lumbar spine (B = 0.394, p = .009) and total body less head (B = 0.774, p = .010). Duration of amenorrhea was not associated with BMD across all sites. For those with repeat BMD measures, there was significantly less deterioration in the BMD Z‐scores for patients with weight or menstrual restoration (R = −0.22 ± 0.59, NR = −0.69 ± 0.43, p = .029).

Conclusions

Duration of amenorrhea was not associated with BMD in this sample. A diagnosis of AN was correlated with lower BMD than atypical AN. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between amenorrhea, weight status, and bone health in Asian adolescents with eating disorders.

Public Significance

In this sample, 13% of Asian adolescents with AN and 2.3% of Asian adolescents with atypical AN have low BMD. In our study population, duration of amenorrhea was not correlated with BMD. Among adolescents with AN, a history of being underweight at the highest pre‐morbid BMI, is correlated with low BMD. It is important for physicians to take a thorough weight history in evaluating bone health in this population.
Postextraction monitoring of dissolved oxygen in virgin olive oil
Authors: Masella Piernicola , Angeloni Giulia , Spadi Agnese , Corti Ferdinando , Mingione Silvia , Parenti Alessandro
Published: October 2023

The issue of the presence of dissolved oxygen (DO) in virgin olive oil (VOO) is neglected in literature. Available information is limited to the extraction stage of the product life cycle, and studies focused on the subsequent stages from extraction to bottling are virtually absent. The present work aims to fill this gap through a dissolved oxygen monitoring experiment performed at industrial scale. Seven different unit‐operations of the routine working procedure of an Italian industrial company specializing in the marketing of VOO were studied: oil discharge from tanker truck; blend formation; oil transferring to filtration; oil transferring to bottling; precoat‐bodyfeed filtration; polishing filtration; bottling. The overall concentration of DO averages to 2.2 mg L–1, while the oil incoming the company was at 1.5 mg L–1. The unit‐operations can be ordered as “mixing‐for‐blend > precoat‐bodyfeed filtration > transfer‐to‐bottling > bottling,” with a decreasing oxygenation effect. Polishing filtration does not determine a significant DO variation. In the immediate term, the increase in DO does not result in oxidative deterioration of the oil, at least detectable with the peroxides value.

Practical Applications: The results provide important information for the management of virgin olive oil on an industrial scale in the postproduction stages up to bottling. First, it was clearly demonstrated that bulk transport operations led to oxygenation of the oil. From this point on, the oil underwent further oxygenation, the extent of which depends on the specific processing operation considered. The oxygenation effect of each operation is different, which means that different interventions with varying intensity in terms of complexity and cost could be applied on a case‐by‐case basis to preserve the oil from oxygenation.
Reinforcement Learning‐Based Co‐Optimization of Adaptive Cruise Speed Control and Energy Management for Fuel Cell Vehicles
Authors: Liu Teng , Huo Weiwei , Lu Bing , Li Jianwei
Published: October 2023

With the development of intelligent autodriving vehicles, the co‐optimization of speed control and energy management under the insurance of safe and comfortable driving has become a vital issue. Herein, the adaptive cruise control scenario is discussed. A co‐optimization method for speed control and energy management for fuel cell vehicles is suggested to delay the degradation of energy sources while preserving fuel cell efficiency. A reward function based on a reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm is developed to optimize the safety coefficient, comfortability, car‐following efficiency, and economy at the speed control level. The RL agent learns to control vehicle speed while avoiding collisions and maximizing the cumulative rewards. To handle the problem of energy management, an adaptive equivalent consumption minimization strategy, which takes into account the deterioration of energy sources, is implemented at the energy management level. The results indicate that the suggested method reduces the demand power by 1.7%, increases the lifetime of power sources, and reduces equivalent hydrogen consumption by 9.4% compared to the model predictive control.
GMFB/AKT/TGF‐β3 in Müller cells mediated early retinal degeneration in a streptozotocin‐induced rat diabetes model
Authors: Zhu Tong , Li Yingao , Zhu Lilin , Xu Jinyuan , Feng Zijun , Chen Hao , Shi Si , Liu Caiying , Ou Qingjian , Gao Furong , Zhang Jieping , Jin Caixia , Xu Jingying , Li Jiao , Zhang Jingfa , Bi Yanlong , Xu Guo‐tong , Wang Juan , Tian Haibin , Lu Lixia
Published: October 2023

Retinal degeneration, characterized by Müller cell gliosis and photoreceptor apoptosis, is considered an early event in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Our previous study proposed that GMFB may mediate diabetic retinal degeneration. This study identified GMFB as a sensitive and functional gliosis marker for DR. Compared to the wild type (WT) group, Gmfb knockout (KO) significantly improved visual function, attenuated gliosis, reduced the apoptosis of neurons, and decreased the mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor α (Tnf‐α) and interleukin‐1β (Il‐1β) in diabetic retinas. Tgf‐β3 was enriched by hub genes using RNA sequencing in primary WT and KO Müller cells. Gmfb KO significantly upregulated the transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β3 protein level via the AKT pathway. The protective effect of TGF‐β3 in the vitreous resulted in significantly improved visual function and decreased the number of apoptotic cells in the diabetic retina. The protection of Gmfb KO in primary Müller cells against high glucose (HG)‐induced photoreceptor apoptosis was partially counteracted by TGF‐β3 antibody and administration of TGFBR1/2 inhibitors. Nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1 (NR3C1) binds to the promoter region of Gmfb and regulates Gmfb mRNA at the transcriptional level. NR3C1 was increased in the retinas of early diabetic rats but decreased in the retinas of late diabetic rats. N′‐[(1E)‐(3‐Methoxyphenyl)Methylene]‐3‐Methyl‐1H‐Pyrazole‐5‐Carbohydrazide (DS‐5) was identified as an inhibitor of GMFB, having a protective role in DR. We demonstrated that GMFB/AKT/TGF‐β3 mediated early diabetic retinal degeneration in diabetic rats. This study provides a novel therapeutic strategy for treating retinal degeneration in patients with DR.
Chironomids as Bioindicators in Acidified Streams: A Contribution to the Acidity Tolerance of Chironomid Species with a Classification in Sensitivity Classes
Authors: Orendt Claus
Published: October 2023

In 12 forest brooks differing in acidity (pH‐values from 2.79 to 6.89) chironomids were sampled to establish their acid‐tolerance based on their occurrence in a certain pH range. Some taxa were found only at pH values higher than pH 6.0, others not below pH 5.5. A relatively high number of species could tolerate periodical pH values below 4. Only a few species were limited to high pH. Using these results, 25 species were classified according to their acid‐sensitivity. The suitability of these species for the assessment of the acidity‐state of running waters was tested. The study demonstrates that chironomids are qualified bioindicators for assessment of the acidity‐state within technical water quality monitoring. It is recommended that the classified chironomid species be added to the list of macroinvertebrate acidity indicators.
Severe Necrosis Due to Paclitaxel Extravasation
Authors: Herrington Jon D. , Figueroa José A.
Published: October 2023

Paclitaxel is an antineoplastic agent derived from the bark of the Pacific yew tree that has activity against many tumors including breast and ovarian carcinomas. In the past, its extravasation quality has been considered to be a local irritant; however, recent reports suggest that the agent may be a vesicant. A patient experienced a delayed vesicant reaction to a paclitaxel extravasation that resulted in severe necrosis. No acute symptoms were reported at the time of extravasation from the 24‐hour peripheral paclitaxel infusion. However, on day 11 the patient complained of severe and progressive pain at the site of extravasation. The site was erythematous and had areas of central necrosis requiring debridement and closure by a plastic surgeon. Because paclitaxel possesses vesicant characteristics, health care professionals should be aware of its potential extravasation hazard. Prolonged peripheral infusions should be avoided or administered with extreme caution.
Exercise‐induced Bronchoconstriction: Elucidating the Roles of Leukotrienes and Prostaglandins
Authors: O'Byrne Paul M.
Published: October 2023

Exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is prevalent among patients with symptomatic asthma, especially those with moderate‐to‐severe airway hyperresponsiveness. This phenomenon generally manifests within the first 3–5 minutes after exercise, during which the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) markedly decreases. Usually, the FEV1 gradually returns to baseline within an hour. Exercise should not be avoided in patients with asthma, since improved physical fitness can reduce the minute ventilation associated with a given exercise work rate and, thereby, reduce the bronchoconstrictive response. The cysteinyl leukotrienes are becoming recognized as important mediators in EIB, and prostaglandins (released at least partially as a result of leukotriene stimulation) are gaining recognition for their protective effects. Thus, pharmacologic agents that either reduce leukotriene activity or enhance prostaglandin activity, or agents that do both, may enhance prophylaxis against EIB. Currently, β‐agonists and cromolyn sodium are the mainstays of prophylactic therapy for EIB.
Drug Interactions with the Taxanes
Authors: Baker Sharyn D.
Published: October 2023

Interactions may occur when the taxanes paclitaxel and docetaxel are given concurrently with other drugs. Altered clearance may be expected because these agents are extensively metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P‐450 enzymes, particularly isoenzymes 3A and 2C. Pharmacodynamic interactions that alter the molecular target or pharmacology of a drug may depend on the sequence or schedule of administration. Paclitaxel clearance is reduced when cisplatin precedes paclitaxel, although cisplatin does not affect the metabolism of paclitaxel by human liver microsomes. Measurement of DNA adduct levels in peripheral white blood cells indicates that a pharmacodynamic interaction may occur between cisplatin and both taxanes. The pharmacokinetics of carboplatin and paclitaxel were not altered when the drugs were given in combination; however, a pharmacodynamic interaction may explain the decreased frequency of thrombocytopenia compared with single‐agent carboplatin. When paclitaxel precedes cyclophosphamide, myelosuppression is more severe. In contrast, when docetaxel precedes ifosfamide, toxicity is reduced. The mechanisms for these effects is unknown. With combination paclitaxel and doxorubicin regimens, the schedule of paclitaxel and the sequence of the agents may result in both pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions.