bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global, regional, and national burdens of leukemia from 1990 to 2019: A systematic analysis of the global burden of disease in 2019 based on the APC model
Authors: Qu Xiang , Zheng Anjie , Yang Jie , Zhang Jinru , Qiao Hongmei , Jiang Fan , Zhao Jie , Wang Chunping , Ning Peng
Published: September 2024

Background

Leukemia is the tenth most common cause of cancer death worldwide and one of the most important causes of disability. To understand the current status and changing trends of the disease burden of leukemia at the global, regional, and national levels, and to provide a scientific basis for the development of leukemia prevention and treatment strategies.

Methods

Based on open data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019), R software was used to calculate estimated annual percentage changes to estimate trends in the age‐standardized incidence (ASIR) and the age‐standardized disability‐adjusted life years (DALY) rate due to leukemia and its major subtypes from 1990 to 2019.

Results

In 2019, globally, the number of incidences and DALYs of leukemia were 643.6 × 103 (587.0 × 103, 699.7 × 103) and 11,657.5 × 103 (10529.1 × 103, 12700.7 × 103), respectively. The ASIR (estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) = −0.37, 95%UI −0.46 to −0.28) and the age‐standardized DALY rate (EAPC = −1.72, 95%UI −1.80 to −1.65) of leukemia showed a decreasing trend from 1990 to 2019. The APC model analysis showed that the age effect of leukemia risk was a “U”‐shaped distribution of relative risk (RR) with increasing age from 1990 to 2019, globally. The time effect was an increase in incidence rate with increasing years but a decrease in DALY rate with increasing years. The cohort effects of both incidence and DALY rates tended to increase and then decrease with the development of the birth cohort. In 1990 and 2019, smoking, high body‐mass index, occupational exposure to benzene, and occupational exposure to formaldehyde were risk factors for DALY in leukemia, especially in areas with high SDI.

Conclusions

From 1990 to 2019, the disease burden of leukemia showed a decreasing trend, but it is worth noting that its overall severity is still very high. The disease burden of leukemia varies greatly from region to region, and exclusive strategies for the prevention and treatment of leukemia should be developed according to the economic and cultural development of each region.
Pericardial tamponade in coronary interventions: Morbidity and mortality
Authors: Deshpande Saurabh , Sawatari Hiroyuki , Rangan Kapil , Buchade Anusha , Ahmed Raheel , Ramphul Kamleshun , Ahmed Mushood , Khanji Mohammed Y. , Somers Virend K. , Shahid Farhan , Chahal Anwar A. , Padmanabhan Deepak
Published: September 2024

Background

Cardiac tamponade or pericardial tamponade (PT) can be a complication following invasive cardiac procedures.

Methods

Patients who underwent various procedures in the cardiac catheterization lab (viz. coronary interventions) were identified using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth and Tenth Edition, Clinical Modification (International classification of diseases [ICD]‐9‐Clinical modification [CM] and ICD‐10‐CM, respectively) from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Patient demographics, presence of comorbidities, PT‐related events, and in‐hospital death were also abstracted from the NIS database.

Results

The frequency of PT‐related events in the patients undergoing CI from 2010 to 2017 ranged from 3.3% to 8.4%. Combined in‐hospital mortality/morbidity of PT‐related events were higher with increasing age (odds ratio [OR] [95% CI]: chronic total occlusion (CTO) = 1.19 [1.10‐1.29]; acute coronary syndrome (ACS) = 1.21 [1.11‐1.33], both p < 0.0001) and female sex (OR [95%CI]: CTO = 1.70 [1.45‐2.00]; ACS = 1.72 [1.44‐2.06], both p < 0.0001). In‐hospital mortality related to PT‐related events was found to be 8.5% for coronary procedures. In‐hospital mortality was highest amongst the patients undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) for ACS (ACS vs. non‐CTO PTCA vs. CTO PTCA: 15.7% vs. 10.4% and 14.4%, p < 0.0001 and ACS vs. non‐CTO PTCA vs. CTO PTCA: 12.1% vs. 8.1% and 5.6%, p = 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusions

In the real‐world setting, PT‐related events in CI were found to be 3.3%−8.4%, with in‐hospital mortality of 8.5%. The patients undergoing PTCA for ACS were found to have highest mortality. Older patients undergoing CTO PTCA independently predicted higher mortality.
MDMA(“Ecstasy”) abuse leading to delayed onset rhabdomyolysis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Gautam Swotantra , Neupane Aakash , Molina Ivonne De La Hoz , Villarreal Jhonny Bonilla , Li Weiying , Mahmud Tasnuva Anindita H.
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

MDMA and cocaine can result in acute onset rhabdomyolysis. However, delayed onset rhabdomyolysis and its pathophysiology is of concern Early therapeutic intervention improves prognosis. Such cases should be promptly referred and managed in centers equipped with critical care and renal replacement therapy.
Antecedents of mentors’ interpersonal behaviors at work: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Firzly Najat , Goulet‐Pelletier Jean‐Christophe , Pelletier Luc , Lagacé Martine
Published: September 2024

Building on the self‐determination theory and the work of Pelletier and their colleagues, we conducted a study to examine the antecedents of mentors’ interpersonal behaviors. The purpose of this study was to determine how influence from above (administrative, practice, and colleagues’ pressures) and influence from below (perception of mentees’ level of self‐determined motivation) were related to the mentors’ motivations for their work and the mentoring relationship, and how the mentors’ motivations were related to their interpersonal behaviors. In the present study (N = 600), the results of a cross‐sectional design showed that mentors who perceived greater influence from above and lower influence from below were more non‐self‐determined toward their work and the mentoring relationship. In turn, the more non‐self‐determined they were, the more they were acting in a controlling manner with their mentees. Overall, our findings supported the independent and complementary role of influences from above and from below on mentors’ motivations and interpersonal behaviors.
Luminescence Changeable CO2‐Storage Cylinder: Triple‐Stranded Helical Eu(III)/Tb(III) Fluorinated MOFs with Amide Linkers
Authors: Hayashi Joe , Iwamura Shinichiro , Nakasaka Yuta , Wang Mengfei , Shoji Sunao , Kitagawa Yuichi , Fushimi Koji , Mukai Shin R. , Hasegawa Yasuchika
Published: September 2024

Triple‐stranded helical lanthanide MOFs with CO2 adsorption properties were investigated. Lanthanide MOFs ([Eu0.1Tb0.9(hfa)3(dpa)]n) are composed of lanthanide luminophores (Eu(III) and/or Tb(III) ions), fluorinated antenna ligands (hfa: hexafluoroacetylacetonate), and polyamide‐type linker ligands (dpa: 4‐(diphenylphosphoryl)‐N‐(4‐(diphenylphosphoryl)phenyl)benzamide). The cylindrical structure was characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and gas adsorption measurements. The inner surfaces of the cylindrical channels were covered with the fluorine atoms of the hfa ligands. The emission intensity ratio (IEu/ITb) in [Eu0.1Tb0.9(hfa)3(dpa)]n is affected by the CO2 gas adsorption behavior. The change in IEu/ITb value was caused by the intermolecular interactions between the CO2 gas molecules and the fluorinated ligands, resulting in an electronic structural change of the lowest triplet excited state in the photosensitized hfa ligands.
Virtual Engineering: Hands‐on Integration of Product Lifecycle Management, Computer‐Aided Design, eXtended Reality, and Artificial Intelligence in Engineering Education
Authors: Bönsch Jakob , Greif Lucas , Hauck Svenja , Kreuzwieser Simon , Mayer Anjela , Michels Felix Longge , Ovtcharova Jivka
Published: September 2024

Engineering education at the Institute for Information Management in Engineering integrates product lifecycle management (PLM), computer‐aided design (CAD), eXtended reality (XR), and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance learning and prepare students for modern challenges. Our interdisciplinary approach, emphasizing digital twins and virtual twins, fosters immersive, hands‐on experiences. This paper reviews our strategies, comparing them with global initiatives, highlighting the transformative impact of our curriculum on preparing future engineers for complex industrial environments.
DBFact applied to minimum variance performance assessment for nonminimum phase multivariate systems from closed‐loop data
Authors: Lima Maria , Trierweiler Jorge Otávio , Farenzena Marcelo
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces an approach for determining a minimum variance control (MVC) benchmark for nonminimum phase (NMP) multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) systems using closed‐loop operational data. The MVC benchmark is derived from the MVC law of DBFact factorization introduced by Lima, Trierweiler, and Farenzena. Unlike other factorization methods, DBFact offers advantages such as non‐iterative computation and ensuring internal stability of the MVC law. This approach considers the inherent directionality of NMP MIMO systems, enhancing the reliability of the control performance index. However, the original method relies on prior knowledge of the process model. To overcome this limitation, this paper proposes a method for calculating the MVC benchmark when prior knowledge is absent. It introduces a MIMO system identification strategy employing minimally invasive signal tests. The methodology is evaluated across various control conditions using a quadruple‐tank plant with additional time delays. The study emphasizes the importance of directionality in assessing MIMO system performance, particularly in evaluating individual loop performances. Results demonstrate the identification procedure's effectiveness in accurately calculating the proposed MVC benchmark, even with a mere 1% increase in output variance considered.
An Oxygen‐Self‐Produced Nanoplatform Based on MnO2 for Relieving Hypoxia
Authors: Pan Guohua , Bao Hanxiao , Zhang Jinguo , Hou Jue , Zhou Jun , Bai Hongzhen , Tang Guping
Published: September 2024

Manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoparticles are increasingly recognized for their potential in biomedical applications, particularly in the realm of hypoxic cancer therapy, due to their unique physicochemical characteristics. This investigation introduces a novel, template‐free synthesis strategy. The reducing groups inherent in bovine serum albumin (BSA) facilitate a redox reaction with potassium permanganate (KMnO4), while the abundance of functional groups in BSA is instrumental in the formation of MnO2. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis has characterized the synthesized MnO2 nanoparticles, termed BM NPs, as spherical particles with a mean diameter of 210 nm and zeta potential of −40.1 mV measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectrum of BM NPs exhibits the characteristic peak of MnO2 at 1113 cm−1 and 620 cm−1. Furthermore, the elemental composition of BM NPs has been ascertained through energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) elemental mapping analysis. Though concentration of BM NPs up to 200 μg/mL, the survival rate of 4T1 cells remained approximately 75 %. Given that BM NPs at a concentration of 100 μg/mL significantly alleviate cellular hypoxia, the high oxygen‐generating capacity of these nanoparticles is proved, suggesting their suitability as a drug delivery system, especially in the context of hypoxic tumor microenvironments.
A self‐stabilizing distributed algorithm for the 1‐MIS problem under the distance‐3 model
Authors: Kakugawa Hirotsugu , Kamei Sayaka , Shibata Masahiro , Ooshita Fukuhito
Published: September 2024

Fault‐tolerance and self‐organization are critical properties in modern distributed systems. Self‐stabilization is a class of fault‐tolerant distributed algorithms which has the ability to recover from any kind and any finite number of transient faults and topology changes. In this article, we propose a self‐stabilizing distributed algorithm for the 1‐MIS problem under the unfair central daemon assuming the distance‐3 model. Here, in the distance‐3 model, each process can refer to the values of local variables of processes within three hops. Intuitively speaking, the 1‐MIS problem is a variant of the maximal independent set (MIS) problem with improved local optimizations. The time complexity (convergence time) of our algorithm is steps and the space complexity is bits, where is the number of processes. Finally, we extend the notion of 1‐MIS to ‐MIS for each nonnegative integer , and compare the set sizes of ‐MIS () and the maximum independent set.
Efficient Photocatalytic Oxidative Coupling of Amines under Visible Light Using a Trioporphyrins‐Based Covalent Triazine Framework
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Hui , Guo Xiao‐Xuan , Zheng Shuo‐Yun , Zhou Xian‐Tai
Published: September 2024

Porphyrins‐based porous organic polymers (POP) were widely used in photocatalytic oxidation under visible light owing to their superiority in the activation of oxygen. In contrast, the efficiency is usually limited due to the fast recombination and slow electron transfer. Herein, we report the use of a trioporphyrins‐based covalent triazine framework (Por‐CTF) as visible‐light‐active photocatalyst for the coupling oxidative of amines to imines at room temperature. By incorporating the π‐conjugated porphyrin building block led to the enhanced electron transport between molecules, and the extended recombination time of excited electrons. The photocatalytic efficiency of Por‐CTF is superior to that of polymer in absence of triazine framework (POP‐TSP), which was prepared by radical polymerization using tetra‐(4‐vinylphenyl) porphyrin (TSP) as monomer. Por‐CTF catalyst presented excellent efficiency for various primary amines and stability. This work provides a reasonable guidance of catalyst molecular structure design for enhancing efficiency in the photocatalytic oxidation.
A novel fractional rat hawk optimization–enabled routing with deep learning–based energy prediction in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Purushothaman Anbhazhagan , Sriramakrishnan Gopalsamy Venkadakrishnan , Om Prakash Ponnusamy Gnanaprakasam , Rajan Cristin
Published: September 2024

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) contain different sensors, which collect various data in the monitoring area. In general, one of the significant resources in WSNs is energy, which prolongs the network's lifetime. The energy‐efficient routing algorithms reduce energy consumption and enhance the survival cycle of WSNs. Thus, this work developed the optimization‐based WSN routing and deep learning (DL)–enabled energy prediction scheme for efficient routing in WSNs. Initially, the WSN simulation is carried out, and then, the node with minimum energy consumption is chosen as the cluster head (CH). Here, the proposed rat hawk optimization (RHO) algorithm is established for finding the best CH, and the RHO is the integration of rat swarm optimization (RSO) and fire hawk optimization (FHO). Furthermore, the routing is accomplished by the developed fractional rat hawk optimization (FRHO) using the fitness function includes delay, distance, link lifetime, and predicted energy of a network for predicting the finest route. Here, the fractional calculus (FC) is incorporated with the RHO to form the FRHO. The energy prediction is achieved by deep recurrent neural network (DRNN). The energy, delay, and throughput evaluation metrics are considered for revealing the efficiency of the proposed system, and the proposed system achieves the best results of 0.246 J, 0.190 s, and 67.13 Mbps, respectively.
Rapid and Cost‐Effective Platypus eDNA Detection in Waterways Using Loop‐Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay: Advancing Conservation Efforts
Authors: Khodaparast Meysam , Sharley Dave , Marshall Stephen , Beddoe Travis
Published: September 2024

Freshwater ecosystems, home to a remarkable diversity of species, are facing severe threats from human activities such as climate change, habitat degradation, over‐extraction of water for irrigation, and pollution. The platypus, an iconic species in freshwater ecosystems around Australia, is threatened by all these activities, both singly and in combination. The scale and complexity of these intersecting and reinforcing threats makes cost‐effective monitoring tools essential to better understand how platypus populations are responding. In this study, we optimized a loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for the rapid and cost‐effective detection of platypus DNA in environmental water samples, offering an attractive alternative to quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). We improved a water filtration protocol for in‐field use, employing suitable filter membranes for processing large volumes of water, thereby maximizing DNA recovery from dilute samples. The limit of detection for the platypus LAMP (Plat‐LAMP) assay was determined to be 12.4 copies/μL using a standard plasmid positive reference and 7 × 10−6 ng/μL when applied to DNA extracted from platypus tissue, with improved sensitivity achieved through the incorporation of locked nucleic acid primers. In comparative testing against qPCR, the Plat‐LAMP assay exhibited greater sensitivity in detecting platypus DNA in known positive water samples collected from platypus habitat at Healesville Sanctuary. Furthermore, the Plat‐LAMP assay demonstrated 100% specificity when performed on water samples collected from non‐platypus habitats. In field testing across waterways in Victoria and New South Wales, the Plat‐LAMP assay detected platypus in 36.96% of samples, compared to 54.35% of samples using qPCR. These findings underscore the Plat‐LAMP assay's potential as a faster and more cost‐effective complementary method to qPCR, rendering it suitable for point‐of‐application water testing. The ability to conduct eDNA surveys without the need for cold‐chain logistics would significantly assist conservation organizations and water managers map platypus distributions and facilitate conservation efforts around Australia.
Photo‐and Electrochemical Modification of Amino Acids, Peptides and Proteins through Cysteine: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Xiang Fang , Hu Fan , Weng Yue , Gao Meng
Published: September 2024

Chemical modification of peptides and proteins has emerged as an efficient strategy to study and manipulate the physical and chemical properties and biological functionalities of proteins. Among the 20 proteinogenic amino acids, cysteine is one of the most frequently targeted residues for chemical modification of peptides and proteins due to its unique thiol group and its relatively low natural abundance. Cysteine is able to partake in radical and atom‐, electron‐ and hydride‐transfer reactions taking the benefit of redox activity of thiol side chain. Recently, photo‐ and electrochemistry have emerged as influential methodologies for enabling novel transformations in organic synthesis. These two fields both involve the generation of radical intermediates through single electron transfer processes, which align well with the redox activity of cysteine residue. Furthermore, the mild and controllable features are suitable for solving the chemo‐ and regioselective problems of the existing bioconjugation strategies. Given the intrinsic benefits of photo‐ and electrochemical redox catalysis, the application of developing novel cysteine‐based bioconjugation methods is increasingly compelling. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in photo‐ and electrochemical approaches for modifying cysteine amino acid residues, cysteine‐containing peptides, and proteins. The advantages of photo‐ and electrochemical redox catalysis and its applicability in developing novel biocompatible methods are discussed. Additionally, the current limitations of these methods and the challenges that need to be addressed in the future are also explored.
Stability of a Mutualistic Escherichia coli Co‐Culture During Violacein Production Depends on the Kind of Carbon Source
Authors: Schick Simon , Müller Tobias , Takors Ralf , Sprenger Georg A.
Published: September 2024

The L‐tryptophan–derived purple pigment violacein (VIO) is produced in recombinant bacteria and studied for its versatile applications. Microbial synthetic co‐cultures are gaining more importance as efficient factories for synthesizing high‐value compounds. In this work, a mutualistic and cross‐feeding Escherichia coli co‐culture is metabolically engineered to produce VIO. The strains are genetically modified by auxotrophies in the tryptophan (TRP) pathway to enable a metabolic division of labor. Therein, one strain produces anthranilate (ANT) and the other transforms it into TRP and further to VIO. Population dynamics and stability depend on the choice of carbon source, impacting the presence and thus exchange of metabolites as well as overall VIO productivity. Four carbon sources (D‐glucose, glycerol, D‐galactose, and D‐xylose) were compared. D‐Xylose led to co‐cultures which showed stable growth and VIO production, ANT‐TRP exchange, and enhanced VIO production. Best titers were ∼126 mg L–1 in shake flasks. The study demonstrates the importance and advantages of a mutualistic approach in VIO synthesis and highlights the carbon source's role in co‐culture stability and productivity. Transferring this knowledge into an up‐scaled bioreactor system has great potential in improving the overall VIO production.
Assessment of genotoxic potential of fragrance materials in the chicken egg assays
Authors: Thakkar Yax , Kobets Tetyana , Api Anne Marie , Duan Jian‐Dong , Williams Gary M.
Published: September 2024

The genotoxic and clastogenic/aneugeneic potentials of four α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes, 2‐phenyl‐2‐butenal, nona‐2‐trans‐6‐cis‐dienal, 2‐methyl‐2‐pentenal, and p‐methoxy cinnamaldehyde, which are used as fragrance materials, were assessed using the Chicken Egg Genotoxicity Assay (CEGA) and the Hen's egg micronucleus (HET‐MN) assay, respectively. Selection of materials was based on their chemical structures and the results of their previous assessment in the regulatory in vitro and/or in vivo genotoxicity test battery. Three tested materials, 2‐phenyl‐2‐butenal, nona‐2‐trans‐6‐cis‐dienal, and 2‐methyl‐2‐pentenal, were negative in both, CEGA and HET‐MN assays. These findings were congruent with the results of regulatory in vivo genotoxicity assays. In contrast, p‐methoxy cinnamaldehyde, which was also negative in the in vivo genotoxicity assays, produced evidence of DNA damage, including DNA strand breaks and DNA adducts in CEGA. However, no increase in the micronucleus formation in blood was reported in the HET‐MN study. Such variation in responses between the CEGA and HET‐MN assay can be attributed to differences in the dosing protocols. Pretreatment with a glutathione precursor, N‐acetyl cysteine, negated positive outcomes produced by p‐methoxy cinnamaldehyde in CEGA, indicating that difference in response observed in the chicken egg and rodent models can be attributed to rapid glutathione depletion. Overall, our findings support the conclusion that CEGA and/or HET‐MN can be considered as a potential alternative to animal testing as follow‐up strategies for assessment of genotoxic potential of fragrance materials with evidence of genotoxicity in vitro.
Upscaling ecological restoration by integrating with agriculture
Authors: Brancalion Pedro HS , Holl Karen D
Published: September 2024

Transformative change is needed to align common small‐scale ecological restoration approaches with expectations to restore millions of hectares of degraded lands globally. Currently, most restoration projects target small areas using costly manual methods that cannot be scaled up to meet global commitments. We propose that a judicious integration of agricultural practices into ecological restoration offers an opportunity to address this issue. This transformative process relies on three sequential and interconnected steps: (1) ensure that sufficient land is truly available for restoration; (2) compensate for the loss of agricultural production, income, or land value to encourage landholders to opt for restoration; and (3) develop scalable, affordable, and effective methods for restoring native ecosystems across the pledged hundreds of millions of hectares to deliver benefits to both nature and people. Large‐scale terrestrial restoration will require incorporating agronomic practices into the restoration toolbox to go beyond vague, ambitious promises and wishful thinking.
Assessing the impact of climate on mackerel (Scomber japonicus) quality during vehicle transportation: A transportation modeling approach
Authors: Park Seul‐Ki , Lee Su‐Jeong , Eom Sung‐Hwan , Kim Kyung Tae , Lee Young‐Sun , Kim Eun‐Song , Son Sung Bum , Jang Won Je , Park Kee‐Jai , Lee Eun‐Woo
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of environmental factors on the quality changes of mackerel (Scomber japonicus), a globally significant fish species valued for its high nutritional content, especially its unsaturated fatty acids and proteins. In South Korea, marine products like mackerel undergo auction, sorting, packaging, and transportation. Assessing the fish freshness and quality during these processes, before it reaches consumers, is crucial. This research aimed to track the changes in mackerel quality indicators after the auction and correlate them with the environmental factors affecting transportation. Using a transportation model established for both summer and winter, mackerel samples were categorized by their weight (200 and 300 g). Results show poorer quality indicators in summer compared to winter, particularly in the 200 g group. Microbiological indicators such as the total viable count (0.923) and total coliforms (0.958) were most strongly correlated with the season, whereas the lipid oxidation indicators acid value (0.627) and peroxide value (0.536) were moderately correlated with the season. Interestingly, the wider standard deviation distribution observed in summer suggests that individual mackerel characteristics may influence the degree of quality changes. These findings offer insights into mackerel quality fluctuations during auction and transportation, aiding in future efforts to maintain seafood quality amidst climate change.
Development and characterization of gluten‐free fried dough (magwinya) using sorghum flour
Authors: Murungweni Kundai T. , Onipe Oluwatoyin O. , Jideani Afam I. O.
Published: September 2024

Magwinya, a deep‐fried cereal dough, is usually produced using cake or bread wheat flour due to the naturally beneficial proteins found in wheat. In this study, sorghum flour, a gluten‐free cereal grain, was used to produce magwinya. The aim was to develop and characterize gluten‐free fried dough using sorghum flour. Xanthan and guar gum hydrocolloids were added to the sorghum flour in ratios of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% and 1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.5%, respectively, for magwinya production. The physicochemical characteristics of the magwinya were compared. The hardness of magwinya was significantly lower in sorghum: guar gum (SGG) samples due to their high moisture content. Ash and fiber content were also significantly higher in SGG samples. Increasing the level of SGG increased the volume (63.33–66.67 cm3). There was no significant difference in the weight of the samples. An increase in diameter (50.33–52.17 mm) was observed in SGG samples. Color analysis showed a significant increase in the L* (Lightness) of the crumb (46.28–49.12) compared to the crust (26.96–30.11) in the SX (sorghum: xanthan gum) and SGG samples. Redness (12.28–13.77) increased with levels, while yellowness (11.86–14.02) decreased with levels in SX and SGG crust. This study's findings are significant as they indicate that guar gum was the better binder for developing cereal fried dough (magwinya) from sorghum. These findings could have practical applications in the food industry, particularly in the development of gluten‐free products and in the use of alternative grains like sorghum.
Structural characteristics of neutral polysaccharides purified from coix seed and its anti‐insulin resistance effects on HepG2 cells
Authors: Wu Guozhen , Liu Shuang , Wang Zhenqiang , Wang Xiao
Published: September 2024

Coix seed is recognized as a functional medicinal food due to its valuable biological activities, with polysaccharides being the primary active compounds. In this study, an ultrasonic‐assisted enzymatic extraction technique was employed, and response surface methodology was used to optimize the yield of polysaccharides to 9.55 ± 0.26%. A novel neutral polysaccharide, CSPsN‐1, was purified with a molecular weight of 7.75 kDa. CSPsN‐1 was composed of arabinose, galactose, glucose, xylose, and mannose in molar ratios of 0.48: 7.92: 86.39: 2.42: 2.79. Its backbone composed of →4)‐α‐D‐Glcp‐(1→ and →3,4)‐α‐D‐Glcp‐(1→ units, with terminal residues of α‐D‐Glcp. In vitro experiments, CSPsN‐1 enhanced glucose consumption in insulin‐resistant HepG2 cells and upregulated GLUT4 expression by activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. These findings suggest that CSPsN‐1 holds significant promise as a functional ingredient for treating insulin resistance and related metabolic disorders.
Design of a mix network with elliptic curve cryptography and XOR shuffling for secure communication with 5‐node
Authors: Naikoo Fayaz Ahmad , Ahmad Khaleel , Ahmad Khairol Amali Bin
Published: September 2024

This research paper proposes a novel 5‐node mix network, an anonymous communication network to boost privacy within the network. Within the proposed framework the crypto‐operations like encryption, decryption, and shuffling are held with the help of the Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and XOR algorithm. This unique combination helps to exchange the message within the communication network with enhanced security and privacy. To analyze the processing time and load factor at each intermediate node of mix network, an exhaustive experimental analysis is carried out for key sizes of 256, 384, and 512 bits respectively. These crypto‐operations like encryption, decryption, and XOR shuffling need varying time slots to perform at each intermediate node thereby having a varying load factor associated with them. The objective of this research is to analyze the processing time and load factor at each node within the 5‐node mix network thereby helping to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each intermediate node. Through our analysis, these percentages are computed, shedding light on the allocation of computational load and resource utilization among the nodes.
AARS Online: A collaborative database on the structure, function, and evolution of the aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases
Authors: Douglas Jordan , Cui Haissi , Perona John J. , Vargas‐Rodriguez Oscar , Tyynismaa Henna , Carreño Claudia Alvarez , Ling Jiqiang , Ribas de Pouplana Lluís , Yang Xiang‐Lei , Ibba Michael , Becker Hubert , Fischer Frédéric , Sissler Marie , Carter Charles W. , Wills Peter R.
Published: September 2024

The aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases (aaRS) are a large group of enzymes that implement the genetic code in all known biological systems. They attach amino acids to their cognate tRNAs, moonlight in various translational and non‐translational activities beyond aminoacylation, and are linked to many genetic disorders. The aaRS have a subtle ontology characterized by structural and functional idiosyncrasies that vary from organism to organism, and protein to protein. Across the tree of life, the 22 coded amino acids are handled by 16 evolutionary families of Class I aaRS and 21 families of Class II aaRS. We introduce AARS Online, an interactive Wikipedia‐like tool curated by an international consortium of field experts. This platform systematizes existing knowledge about the aaRS by showcasing a taxonomically diverse selection of aaRS sequences and structures. Through its graphical user interface, AARS Online facilitates a seamless exploration between protein sequence and structure, providing a friendly introduction to the material for non‐experts and a useful resource for experts. Curated multiple sequence alignments can be extracted for downstream analyses. Accessible at www.aars.online, AARS Online is a free resource to delve into the world of the aaRS.
Cancer knocks you out by fasting: Cachexia as a consequence of metabolic alterations in cancer
Authors: Cortellino Salvatore , D'Angelo Margherita , Quintiliani Massimiliano , Giordano Antonio
Published: September 2024

Neoplastic transformation reprograms tumor and surrounding host cell metabolism, increasing nutrient consumption and depletion in the tumor microenvironment. Tumors uptake nutrients from neighboring normal tissues or the bloodstream to meet energy and anabolic demands. Tumor‐induced chronic inflammation, a high‐energy process, also consumes nutrients to sustain its dysfunctional activities. These tumor‐related metabolic and physiological changes, including chronic inflammation, negatively impact systemic metabolism and physiology. Furthermore, the adverse effects of antitumor therapy and tumor obstruction impair the endocrine, neural, and gastrointestinal systems, thereby confounding the systemic status of patients. These alterations result in decreased appetite, impaired nutrient absorption, inflammation, and shift from anabolic to catabolic metabolism. Consequently, cancer patients often suffer from malnutrition, which worsens prognosis and increases susceptibility to secondary adverse events. This review explores how neoplastic transformation affects tumor and microenvironment metabolism and inflammation, leading to poor prognosis, and discusses potential strategies and clinical interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Identification and functional characterization of the nuclear and nucleolar localization signals in the intrinsically disordered region of nucleomethylin
Authors: Shrikondawar Akshaykumar Nanaji , Chennoju Kiranmai , Ghosh Debasish Kumar , Ranjan Akash
Published: September 2024

The nucleolar localization of proteins is regulated by specific signals directing their trafficking to nucleus and nucleolus. Here, we elucidate the mechanism underlying the nuclear and nucleolar localization of the nucleomethylin (NML) protein, focusing on its nuclear localization signals (NLSs) and nucleolar localization signal (NoLS). Using a combination of bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation, we identified two monopartite and one bipartite NLS motifs within NML. The combined presence of both monopartite NLSs significantly enhances nuclear localization of the protein, while specific basic amino acid clusters within the bipartite NLS are crucial for their functionality. We also reveal the functional role of the NLS‐coupled NoLS motif in driving nucleolar localization of NML, which contains an arginine‐rich motif essential for its function. The basic residues of the arginine‐rich motif of NoLS of NML interacts with nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1), allowing the possible liquid‐liquid phase separation and retention of NML in the nucleolus. Remarkably, the strong NoLS of NML can direct the nucleolar localization of a cytosolic protein, aldolase, emphasizing its potency. Overall, our findings provide insights into the combinatorial functioning of NLSs and NoLS in regulating the subcellular localization of NML, highlighting the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing its localization within the nucleus and nucleolus.
Optimization of greenhouse gas valorization over ceria‐promoted Co–Ni/graphene oxide catalytic materials using response surface methodology
Authors: Mageed Alyaa K. , Alsaffar May Ali , Abdel Ghany Mohamed Abdel Rahman , Sukkar Khalid A. , Ayodele Bamidele Victor
Published: September 2024

Background

The mitigation of global warming effect requires intensified research efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This study was aimed at investigating the valorization of two principal greenhouse gases, namely carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), over CeO2‐doped Co–Ni/GO catalytic materials. The CeO2‐doped Co–Ni/GO catalysts were synthesized using a sequential wet impregnation method and employed for CO2 reforming of CH4. The catalytic materials were characterized using various instrumental techniques. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to investigate the impact of process factors, namely reaction temperature (ranging from 700 to 800 °C), CeO2 loading (ranging from 5% to 15%) and feed flowrate (ranging from 10n to 50 mL min−1), on the CH4 conversions.

Results

The three factors were observed to have significant influence on the CH4 conversion based on analysis of variance. The analysis of the RSM quadratic model revealed that the optimum conditions of 800 °C, 14.22% and 10.00 mL min−1 were obtained for the reaction temperature, CeO2 loading and feed flowrate resulting in maximum CH4 conversion of 98.24%. The desirability function for these results was calculated to be 0.934. The predicted process parameters aligned with the results of the actual experimental analysis.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated that the conversion of CH4 to value‐added products such as syngas can be optimized using RSM. The optimum conditions obtained could be used to improve the process performance. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Evaluation of developmental milestones and of brain measurements in rats exposed to the pesticide pyriproxyfen in prenatal period
Authors: Pereira Katriane Endiel , de Aguiar Gabrielle Batista , Villanova Bianca , Rabello Nicole Jansen , Schelbauer Rafaela , Carniel Estela Soares , Moresco Rafaela Maria , de Souza Marcelo Alves , Centenaro Lígia Aline
Published: September 2024

Pyriproxyfen is a pesticide used in Brazil to control the Aedes aegypti mosquito, vector of arboviruses like Zika and dengue. However, this pesticide is structurally similar to retinoic acid, a metabolite of vitamin A that regulates neuronal differentiation and hindbrain development during the embryonic period. Due to the similarity between pyriproxyfen and retinoic acid, studies indicate that this pesticide may have cross‐reactivity with retinoid receptors. Thus, pregnant exposure to pyriproxyfen could interfere in the nervous system development of the fetal. In this context, the present study evaluated whether prenatal exposure to pyriproxyfen affects neonatal development and brain structure in rats. Wistar rat pups were divided in three experimental groups: (1) negative control (CT−)—offspring of rats that drink potable water during pregnancy; (2) pyriproxyfen (PIR)—offspring of rats exposed to Sumilarv® prenatally, a pesticide that has pyriproxyfen as active ingredient; and (3) positive control (CT+)—offspring of rats exposed to an excess of vitamin A prenatally. Only vitamin A treated‐pregnant showed lower weight gain, but gestation length was similar among pregnant that received potable water, water containing vitamin A and water containing Sumilarv. In relation to the offspring, PIR group exhibits a delayed front‐limb suspension response but performed early the negative geotaxis reflex. On the other hand, CT+ group exhibited lower body weight in the 1st postnatal day, delayed audio startle response, but performed early the eyelids opening and hindlimb placing response. A reduction in the maximum brain width was observed both in PIR and CT+ groups, but a reduction in the number of neurons in the M1 cortex was showed only in CT+ group. The number of glial cells in this brain area was similar between the three experimental groups studied. Although prenatal exposure to pyriproxyfen did not alter neonatal milestones in the same way as vitamin A in excess, both substances caused a reduction in the maximum width of the brain, suggesting that this pesticide can produce neurotoxic effects during the embryonic period.
Universal graphs with forbidden wheel minors
Authors: Krill Thilo
Published: September 2024

Let be any wheel graph and the class of all countable graphs not containing as a minor. We show that there exists a graph in which contains every graph in as an induced subgraph.
The emergence of parvovirus B19 as a pathogen in acute encephalitis syndrome
Authors: Dey Sayantika , Mohanty Monalisa , Mamidi Prabhudutta , Naik Suprava , Gupta Kavita , Dwibedi Bhagirathi , Devi Sujata , Mahapatra Ashoka , Das Rashmi Ranjan , Behera Bijayini , Bhoi Sanjeev Kumar , Mishra Baijayantimala
Published: September 2024

Despite scarcity of data, in recent years, human parvovirus B19 (PVB19) has been emerging as an important pathogen in acute encephalitis syndrome (AES). But, PVB19 virus is mostly looked for only after the exclusion of other common pathogens implicated in AES. Hence, this study was conducted to correlate clinical, radiological, and sequencing data to establish the crucial role of PVB19 in AES. Cerebrospinal fluid and/or serum samples were collected from AES patients as per WHO criteria and tested by ELISA, real‐time PCR and bacterial culture sensitivity for various pathogens. PVB19 positive samples were subjected to sequencing. PVB19 attributed to 5% of total AES cases in the present study with fatalities in two of eight cases. Two isolates of PVB19 belonged to Genotype 1 A whereas one belonged to Genotype 3B. On multivariate analysis of predictive symptoms of PVB19 AES cases, blurring of vision (odds ratio [OR] 20.67; p = 0.001) was found to be significant independent predictor of PVB19 AES. Six of eight patients (two encephalitis specific and four nonspecific) had abnormal radiological findings. Hence, being an emerging viral pathogen, PVB19 should be included in the diagnostic algorithm of AES for prompt diagnosis and definitive management to prevent undesired neurological sequelae.
Electro‐anatomically confirmed sites of origin of ventricular tachycardia and premature ventricular contractions and occurrence of R wave in lead aVR: A proof of concept study
Authors: Abedin Zainul , Smith Seth , Kattamuri Lakshmi , Melendez Amy , Abedin Moeen
Published: September 2024

Background

The R wave in lead aVR, during the wide QRS complex tachycardia, is commonly observed in a ventricular tachycardia (VT) arising from certain locations in the ventricles.

Objectives

This was a retrospective and a proof of concept study to correlate the sites of origin of VT and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) with the occurrence of R wave in lead aVR.

Methods

Patients with VT or high density of PVCs were included. Surface and intracardiac electrograms were recorded during the arrhythmia. VTs and PVCs arising from the inferior, inferolateral, or apical region of the ventricles were grouped into Zone 2. Those arising from the other areas of the ventricles were grouped into Zone 1.

Results

Sixty‐four patients were included in the study. The mean age was 57 years. There were 47 males. Among 64 patients with VT or PVCs, 28 patients had an R wave in aVR (43.7%), In 26 of 28 patients with an R wave in aVR, the site of origin of the arrhythmia was in Zone 2. The R wave in aVR was absent in 36 patients, 34 of whom had the origin of arrhythmia focus in Zone 1. The presence of an R wave in aVR correctly identified Zone 2 as a site of origin of the arrhythmia with high sensitivity (93%) and specificity (94%).

Conclusions

The presence of an R wave in aVR during wide QRS complex tachycardia or PVC is a valuable observation for identifying the site of origin of the arrhythmia and hence in distinguishing supraventricular tachycardia with aberrancy from VT.
Genetic Adaptations and Mechanistic Insights Into Bacterial Bioremediation in Ecosystems
Authors: Vinayagam Yamini , Rajeswari Vijayarangan Devi
Published: September 2024

Metal pollution poses significant threats to the ecosystem and human health, demanding effective remediation strategies. Bioremediation, which leverages the unique metal‐resistant genes found in bacteria, offers a cost‐effective and efficient solution to heavy metal contamination. Genes such as Cad, Chr, Cop, and others provide pathways to improve the detoxification of the ecosystem. Through multiple techniques, genetic engineering makes bacterial genomes more capable of improving metal detoxification; nonetheless, there are still unanswered questions regarding the nature of new metal‐resistant genes. This article examines bacteria's complex processes to detoxify toxic metals, including biosorption, bioaccumulation, bio‐precipitation, and bioleaching. It also explores essential genes, proteins, signaling mechanisms, and bacterial biomarkers involved in breaking toxic metals.
Force training neural network potential energy surface models
Authors: Devereux Christian , Yang Yoona , Martí Carles , Zádor Judit , Eldred Michael S. , Najm Habib N.
Published: September 2024

Machine learned chemical potentials have shown great promise as alternatives to conventional computational chemistry methods to represent the potential energy of a given atomic or molecular system as a function of its geometry. However, such potentials are only as good as the data they are trained on, and building a comprehensive training set can be a costly process. Therefore, it is important to extract as much information from training data as possible without further increasing the computational cost. One way to accomplish this is by training on molecular forces in addition to energies. This allows for three additional labels per atom within the molecule. Here we develop a neural network potential energy surface for studying a hydrogen transfer reaction between two isomers of . We show that, for a much smaller training set, force training not only improves the accuracy of the model compared to only training on energies, but also provides more accurate and smoother first and second derivatives that are crucial to run dynamics and extract vibrational frequencies in the context of transition‐state theory. We also demonstrate the importance of choosing the proper force to energy weight ratio for the loss function to minimize the model test error.
Stimulation conditions leading to electrical vestibular co‐stimulation in cochlear implant users
Authors: Fröhlich Laura , Plontke Stefan K. , Löffler Lea B. , Manthey Antonia , Rahne Torsten
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The study objective was to investigate the influence of electrical stimulus properties on cervical and ocular vestibular‐evoked myogenic potentials to electrical stimulation by cochlear implants (e‐cVEMPs, e‐oVEMPs).

Methods

E‐VEMPs were recorded in adult Nucleus cochlear implant (CI) patients using electric pulse trains (4 biphasic pulses at 1000 Hz burst rate). Ground path and stimulation electrodes were varied between monopolar stimulation at basal electrode contact E3 (MP1 + 2 E3), monopolar stimulation at apical electrode contact E20 (MP1 + 2 E20), and bipolar transmodiolar stimulation between E3 and E14 (BP E3‐E14). The electric pulse train was further varied to 2 pulses at 1000 Hz, 2 pulses at 500 Hz, and a single pulse, in patients with present e‐VEMP responses. VEMPs to bone‐conducted vibration (BCV) were recorded as reference in all participants.

Results

Measurements were conducted in 30 ears of 27 participants (mean age 49.3 years, SD 12.7 years). E‐VEMPs were present in 13 ears (43%). 5 of the 13 cases showed e‐VEMPs but no BCV evoked VEMPs. Response numbers increased with increasing stimulation levels. The highest response rate of 40% was obtained for MP1 + 2 E3 stimulation. Stimulus variation did not affect response numbers. E‐VEMP amplitudes were comparable to BCV‐stimulated VEMPs. Latencies were up to 3.1 ms shorter for electric stimulation. Some patients showed e‐VEMP thresholds close to or below the electric hearing threshold level.

Conclusion

The occurrence of e‐VEMPs is dependent on current path and stimulation level. Vestibular co‐stimulation by the CI is more likely in patients with high stimulation levels and for monopolar stimulation of basal electrode contacts.

Level of Evidence

4.