bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Status of Poultry Coccidiosis in Developing India
Authors: Jadhav Bhimrao N.
Published: January 2024

To overcome nutritional demand of world as well as India in future, poultry sector is best source of animal protein. The broiler production is only the source which fulfills the future demand of food. Many diseases in chicken hamper the production of chicken in organized and unorganized poultry. Chicken coccidiosis and other zoonotic diseases cause pathological impact on growth of the chicken. In spite of the availability of effective drugs and other medicine, coccidiosis is great threat to poultry industry. All over the world seven species of Eimeria produces morbidity and mortality, poor weight, and loss of egg production causing huge economic loss to the poultry sector.

Indian poultry majorly affected by coccidia in monsoon season followed by winter and summer. The percentage prevalence of coccidiosis is higher in unorganized poultry than organized. Poor management practices and less care may increase the percentage of diseases among chicks in the early stage of life. Eimeria tenella and Eimeria necatrix are potential killer species in the poultry coccidiosis.
Fight Against Hidden Hunger: Boosting Zinc in Potato through Biofortification in Calcareous Soil of Bihar, India
Authors: Srivastava Mayank , Tripathi Mayank Mani , Kumar Sunil , Kumar Amrendra
Published: January 2024

Micronutrients are often overlooked during fertilizer application, which reduces the content of micronutrients in the soil and crops. The concentration of micronutrients in our meals is decreasing considerably, creating several abnormalities in human body and deterioration of human health, although we consume adequate amount of food, we do not get enough nutrients, which is labeled as hidden hunger. To increase the micronutrient concentration in potato crop, particularly, Zinc, this research was conducted in the Rabi season of 2022 at TCA-Dholi, Dr. RPCAU, Pusa, Bihar. Kufri Khyati, a popular variety in Northern Bihar was given ten treatments and replicated four times, in Randomized Block Design (RBD), experimental design. The concentration of Zn in leaves (95.45 ppm), in tubers (31.50 ppm), SPAD meter reading at 45 DAP, 60 DAP and 75 DAP (49.29, 42.04, 37.11, respectively), yield of tubers (25.17 t ha-1), and B:C ratio (2.97) were maximum in treatment T10 (Zn-EDTA @ 4g litre-1 at 25 and 50 DAP).
Effect of Nutrients Omission on Growth, Yield and Economics of Rabi Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) in Vertisols under Rainfed Conditions
Authors: Rani C. Sudha , Rani K. Sandya , Shekar K. , Sudhakar C.
Published: January 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Tandur, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University during 2020-21 and 2021-22 to study the impact of nutrient omission on productivity and profitability of Rabi sorghum. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 3 replications. Pooled data results indicated that   among the nutrient omissions treatments, significantly higher plant height (211.7 cm), days to 50% flowering (75 days), panicle length (17.9 cm), number of grains panicle-1 (946), grain yield (1234 kg ha-1), fodder yield (5788 kg ha-1), harvest index (18.17), net returns of Rs. 44,790 ha-1 and BC ratio of 2.68 were recorded in no omission treatments and it was on par with K omission followed by N omission and lowest with NPK omission (control) treatments. When compared to the no omission (NPK) treatment, the rabi sorghum grain yields were decreased by 2% with the K omission, 10% with N omission, 15% with P omission, 22% with PK omission, 23% with NK omission, 29% with NP omission and 39% with NPK omission.
Correlation and Heritability Analysis for Seed Quality under Controlled Conditions in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Singh Jay , Maurya C. L. , Singh Ajay Pratap , Gupta Harshit , Yadav Gaurav , Singh Yogendra Pratap , Gupta Rishabh , Jyoti Aparna , Kushwaha Paras
Published: January 2024

A study was conducted on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in laboratory at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, during the 2019–20 for correlation and heritability analysis for seed quality under controlled conditions in wheat. In a wheat crop research, 30 germplasm were tested using three checks each for the parameters of seed weight, seed width, seed length, shoot length, root length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, germination (%), first count, final count, and vigour index-I and vigour index-II. In this study, the germplasm was assessed using parameters and the correlation coefficient. The vigour index-II demonstrated a very significant positive phenotypic connection with root length (0.828), final count (0.564), and first count (0.552), as well as a genotypically significant positive correlation with final count (1.165), root length (0.867), and first count (0.552). The high estimates (>15%) of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were registered in the case of vigour index-I (PCV=17.36%, GCV=17.24%), shoot length (PCV=15.96%, GCV= 15.77%), seed width (PCV= 15.35%, GCV= 15.19%). The moderate estimate (10%) of PCV and GCV were recorded for root length (PCV=12.72%, GCV=12.56%), and seedling length (PCV= 11.46, GCV= 11.30).
Case Study on Techno Economic Analysis of Solar Roof Top Power Plant in India
Authors: Gadhiya G. A. , Patel U. R. , Chauhan P. M.
Published: January 2024

The viability of installing a rooftop solar power plant is investigated in this research. Roof top renewable energy has recently become popular for residential buildings. In general, the electricity produced from roof-top solar panels is converted to alternating current (AC) via a power control unit and directed to the existing wire network of the houses intended primarily to serve the Electric Utilities that supply alternating current (AC). The current 1 kilowatt power plant is utilized to assess performance throughout the year. The overall cost of the solar power plant is INR 50,000 with subsidies and it generates 1403.44 kWh of electricity each year. According to government policy, Government purchase the generated solar power in residential areas costs an average of 2.5 INR/kWh, so a yearly INR 3508.60 is generated from the solar power plant if all of the electricity is directly fed into the grid, but if it is used, it will save the consumer money because 1 kWh costs an average of 8.00 rupees in India in 2023 as buyers prospective. Therefore, as the point of view of the purchaser, the buyer or owner of a solar roof top receives 11,227.50 INR every year. The solar roof top power plant has a lifespan of 25 years, hence the annual cost of the solar power plant is 2000 INR. Thus, the benefit cost ratio to the owner is 5.61 if he/she uses energy for their dwelling, and the payback period is only 4.45 years. The proposed work must be considered in terms of an overall environmentally friendly approach that will end up resulting in a new era for energy efficiency and a lower carbon footprint. It will also contribute to the expansion of renewable energy in India.
Assessing Quality of Life: A Comparative Study among Patients with Schizophrenia, Bipolar Affective Disorder, and Healthy Control in a South Indian Tertiary Care Setting
Authors: Sequeira Dafney Viola , Binny Benison , Javed Nameerah , Mathew Vinod K , Pandiyan Kasthuri
Published: January 2024

Aim: To assess and compare the quality of life (QOL) of patients with schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) patients and healthy control.

Methods: This is an observational study carried out in MVJ Medical College and Research Hospital, Bengaluru, India. The WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was administered to 139 patients with schizophrenia and 139 patients with BPAD that were diagnosed according to the ICD-10 diagnostic criteria, as well as 139 healthy subjects all of whom gave their informed consent. The data were analyzed using SAS 9.2 software.

Results: On comparing the three groups, the schizophrenia group scored the least in the physical (53.51±19.36), psychological (51.32±21.37) and environmental health domains (55.59±17.78). The QOL of the BPAD group was comparable to that of the healthy control group and significantly better as compared to that of the schizophrenia group (P<0.0001).

Conclusion: The study shows that patients with schizophrenia had significantly lower QOL than patients with BPAD and healthy subjects. Our study emphasizes the significance of addressing psychiatric patients' overall health and QOL in addition to symptom management.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of a Medicinal Mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Canpolat Ş. , Canpolat E. Y.
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, along with the determination of major fatty acids by GC-MS and the content of total phenolic compounds of Ganoderma lucidum naturally grown in Türkiye. The antioxidant activity was determined by widely used DPPH radical scavenging method. G. lucidum methanol extract exhibited a 90.81% scavenging activity of DPPH. The content of total phenolic compounds was determined as 235.19 µg GAE/mL by Folin-Ciocalteu’s phenol reagent method. The major fatty acids of G. lucidum were characterized by GC-MS. 2,6-di(t-butyl)-4-hydroxybenzoic acid (RT: 30.021 min), hexadecanoic acid (RT: 36.221 min), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (RT: 39.949 min), 9-octadecenoic acid (RT: 40.076 min) and octadecanoic acid (RT: 40.601 min) were found to be the predominant fatty acid compounds. The methanol and acetone extracts of G. lucidum were also tested against pathogenic microorganisms via agar disc diffusion method and exhibited various levels of inhibition. The highest antimicrobial activity was detected as 17.67±0.47 mm against Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 strain by acetone extract.
Understanding the Determinants of Implanon Contraceptive Discontinuation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chao Barbara Mendes Paz , Razera Amanda , Cazalli Maria Eduarda , Santos Rafaela Mell
Published: January 2024

Background: Implanon (Etonogestrel) is a reversible contraceptive of prolonged action (LARC), presenting as a single rod of second generation, containing only progestogen and a clinical failure rate less than 1%. Although there have been significant improvements in the effectiveness, safety, accessibility and affordable price of Implanon, discontinuation of the method has become a concern, with more than half of users discontinuing its use before the recommended 3-year term.

Methods: This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of the literature using the PubMed, Scielo, Science Direct and BVS databases, using the following search strategy: "Implanon" AND "discontinuation" AND "factors".

Results: The search resulted in the identification of 482 publications, being 362 excluded because they deal with duplicate publications and 115 discarded because they are narrative/systematic/editorial reviews or incomplete studies, articles to be included for the construction of the qualitative synthesis of the present work. The studies highlight that, despite the high effectiveness of the Implanon contraceptive, its discontinuation rate before the recommended three years is significant, being mainly motivated by side effects such as menstrual irregularities and local discomfort. Women with less education, no children and lack of prior counseling are more likely to discontinue use.

Conclusion: According to the publications analyzed, it is demonstrated that the discontinuation of the contraceptive method is essentially associated with the occurrence of adverse effects according to its use. To address this challenge, it is crucial to promote the dissemination of appropriate information, improve the quality of services, and provide training to healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive advice to ensure the continued and effective use of Implanon.
Erythroderma in a Patient With Thymoma-Associated Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Chen Jia-Qi , Li Wei , Cai Sui-Qing
Published: January 2024

A woman in her 30s with myasthenia gravis diagnosed at age 27 years presented to the emergency department with severe erythroderma over the past 2 months. What is your diagnosis?
Lived Experience of Acne and Acne Treatment in Transgender Patients
Authors: Gold Sarah , Siira Meron , Willner Sigal , Alcid Crescent , Chen Suephy C. , Tangpricha Vin , Goodman Michael , Escoffery Cam , Owen-Smith Ashli , Yeung Howa
Published: January 2024

Importance

While acne is common in transgender and gender-diverse people and is associated with gender-affirming hormone therapy, little research has examined these factors and their impact in gender minority groups.

Objective

To examine the lived experiences of acne and acne treatment in transgender and gender-diverse participants.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This mixed-methods analysis was conducted at a multidisciplinary gender center at a public safety-net hospital and endocrinology and dermatology clinics at a tertiary academic center from January 4, 2021, to April 7, 2022, using semistructured interviews and surveys. Participants were transgender or gender-diverse adults who had received gender-affirming hormone therapy. Data analysis was performed from November 11, 2021, to March 31, 2023.

Exposure

Current diagnosis of acne.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Interviews exploring the experience of acne and acne treatment were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded using minority stress theory and the socioecological model, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Themes were triangulated with survey data on gender, self-reported acne severity, skin-specific quality-of-life impact, and treatment experience.

Results

A total of 32 participants were included in the study (mean [range] age, 32 [18-57] years; 17 transgender men, 11 transgender women, and 4 nonbinary participants). Ten participants (31%) self-rated their skin as currently clear or almost clear, 11 (34%) reported mild acne, and 11 (34%) had moderate to severe acne. Participants described experiences of rejection and bullying related to acne and admitted avoiding social interactions in which they anticipated acne-related discrimination, which led to feelings of depression and anxiety. Acne worsened body appearance dissatisfaction. Transgender women reported acne interfering with feminine gender expression. Transgender men often normalized acne development, sometimes viewing acne positively as an early sign of testosterone action. Most participants tried over-the-counter acne treatments and commonly sought acne treatment advice from physicians, peers, online forums, and social media. Barriers to acne treatments included cost, lack of multidisciplinary care, mistrust toward the health care system, and lack of transgender-specific acne care education.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this mixed-methods study, transgender and gender-diverse individuals reported experiencing acne-related stigma and facing barriers to acne treatment. Multilevel changes, such as developing strategies to reduce acne stigma, providing transgender-specific acne care education, facilitating multidisciplinary acne care, and expanding transgender-friendly clinical environments, are recommended to reduce the impact of acne in transgender individuals.
Serving the scientific community: FEBS Open Bio in 2024
Authors: Wright Duncan E. , De la Rosa Miguel A.
Published: January 2024

FEBS Open Bio is committed to not only publishing sound science but also to supporting early‐career researchers and the scientific community as a whole. In this editorial, we look back at how the journal recognised and rewarded excellent research in 2023 and look forward to 2024.
Analogous Design of a Microlayered Silicon Oxide‐Based Electrode to the General Electrode Structure for Thin‐Film Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Jong Heon , Song Aeran , Park Ji‐Min , Park Jun‐Seob , Behera Subhashree , Cho Eunmi , Park Yun Chang , Kim Na‐Yeong , Jung Ji‐Won , Lee Sang‐Jin , Kim Hyun‐Suk
Published: December 2023

Development of miniaturized thin‐film lithium‐ion batteries (TF‐LIBs) using vacuum deposition techniques is crucial for low‐scale applications, but addressing low energy density remains a challenge. In this work, structures analogous to SiOx‐based thin‐film electrodes are designed with close resemblance to traditional LIB slurry formulations including active material, conductive agent, and binder. The thin‐film is produced using mid‐frequency sputtering with a single hybrid target consisting of SiOx nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and polytetrafluoroethylene. The thin‐film SiOx/PPFC (plasma‐polymerized fluorocarbon) involves a combination of SiOx and conductive carbon within the PPFC matrix. This results in enhanced electronic conductivity and superior elasticity and hardness in comparison to a conventional pure SiOx‐based thin‐film. The electrochemical performance of the half‐cell consisting of thin‐film SiOx/PPFC demonstrates remarkable cycling stability, with a capacity retention of 74.8% up to the 1000th cycle at 0.5 C. In addition, a full cell using the LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 thin‐film as the cathode material exhibits an exceptional initial capacity of ≈120 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and cycle performance, marked by a capacity retention of 90.8% from the first cycle to the 500th cycle at a 1 C rate. This work will be a stepping stone for the AM/CB/B composite electrodes in TF‐LIBs.
Influence of Low‐Frequency Vibration and Skin Strain on Insertion Mechanics and Drug Diffusion of PVA/PVP Dissolving Microneedles
Authors: Ebrahiminejad Vahid , Malek‐khatabi Atefeh , Faraji Rad Zahra
Published: January 2024

Microneedles (MNs) offer a promising solution for increasing the effectiveness of transdermal drug delivery and diagnostics. However, challenges such as large‐scale manufacturing, partial MN penetration, and uncontrolled drug delivery limit the effectiveness of the technology. To overcome these challenges, current research examines the effects of skin strain and vibration on MN insertion and drug delivery. A novel multifeatured impact applicator are developed for improving skin insertion that features a combination of skin stretching, eccentric rotating mass (ERM), and linear resonant actuator (LRA) micro‐vibration capabilities. In addition, a scalable replication method for dissolving microneedle patches (DMNPs) are developed using two‐photon polymerization (TPP) and soft embossing processes. The DMNPs are used to evaluate the diffusion and concentration of a model drug, fluorescein sodium salt (FSS), when applied using ERM and LRA micro‐vibration at different frequencies. Additionally, a new computer simulation method is presented to model the MN insertion into the multilayered hyperelastic skin model, incorporating skin strain and vibrational effects. The results indicate that applying skin strain and vibration decreases the force required for MN insertion and enhances the dissolution and diffusion depth of the drug in the skin, which can enhance the drug permeability and effectiveness of MN devices.
Regioselective 1,2‐Dicarbofunctionalization of Silylated 1,3‐Dienes
Authors: Zhou Fan , Ge Shulei , Tang Hong , Li Jie
Published: January 2024

A cobalt‐catalyzed 1,2‐regioselective dicarbofunctionalization of silylated 1,3‐dienes with functionalized solid organozinc pivalates and alkyl bromides is disclosed, thus affording the alkylarylated and dialkylated silanes in a regioselective manifold. Herein, regioselectivity is steered by steric hindrance of the bulky silyl groups, which could prohibit the formation of the flexible π‐allylcobalt intermediate. Furthermore, derivatizations of the resulting products and modifications of bioactive molecules demonstrate the synthetical utility of our method.
Impedance nanobiosensor based on enzyme‐conjugated biosynthesized gold nanoparticles for the detection of Gram‐positive bacteria
Authors: Sen Sarani , Sarkar Priyabrata
Published: December 2023

In this report, gold nanoparticles (GNPS) were synthesized using cell‐free extracts of seven different isolates, namely, Pseudomonas aerogenosa CEBP2, Pseudomonas sp. CEBP1, Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes CEB1G, Acinetobactor baumani CEBS1, Cuprividus sp. CEB3, Micrococcus luteus CUB12, and Pandoraea sp. CUB2S. The spectroscopic (UV–vis, FTIR, DLS, XRD, EDS) and microscopic (FESEM, TEM) results confirm the reduction of Au3+ to Au0 in the presence of biomolecules having reducing as well as self‐stabilizing activity. In this green synthesis approach, the average particle size of biosynthesized GNPS might vary (4–60 nm) depending on the bacterial species, pH of the media, incubation time, and temperature. In this study, GSH‐modified BSGNPs (Au‐GSH) have shown antimicrobial activity with better stability against Gram‐positive bacteria. After conjugation of lysozyme with Au‐GSH (lyso@Au‐GSH), the zone of inhibition was enhanced from 12 to 23 mm (Au‐GSH). The TEM study shows the spherical GNP (16.65 ± 2.84) turns into a flower‐shaped GNP (22.22 ± 3.12) after conjugation with lysozyme due to the formation of the protein corona. Furthermore, the nanobioconjugate (lyso@Au‐GSH) was immobilized with Nafion on a glassy carbon electrode to fabricate a label‐free impedance biosensor that is highly sensitive to monitor changes in the transducer surface due to biomolecular interactions. The uniquely designed biosensor could selectively detect Gram‐positive bacteria in the linear range of 3.0 × 101–3 × 1010 cfu mL−1 with RE <5%. The proposed simplest biosensor exhibited good reproducibility (RSD = 3.1%) and excellent correlation (R2 = 0.999) with the standard plate count method, making it suitable for monitoring Gram‐positive bacterial contamination in biofluids, food, and environmental samples.
Is elective neck dissection justified in cT2N0M0 oral cavity cancer defined according to the AJCC eighth edition staging system?
Authors: Chen Tsung‐Ming , Terng Shyuang‐Der , Lee Li‐Yu , Lee Shu‐Ru , Ng Shu‐Hang , Kang Chung‐Jan , Lin Jin‐Ching , Chien Chih‐Yen , Hua Chun‐Hung , Wang Cheng Ping , Chen Wen‐Cheng , Tsai Yao‐Te , Tsai Chi‐Ying , Lin Chien‐Yu , Fan Kang‐Hsing , Wang Hung‐Ming , Hsieh Chia‐Hsun , Yeh Chih‐Hua , Lin Chih‐Hung , Tsao Chung‐Kan , Cheng Nai‐Ming , Fang Tuan‐Jen , Huang Shiang‐Fu , Lee Li‐Ang , Fang Ku‐Hao , Wang Yu‐Chien , Lin Wan‐Ni , Hsin Li‐Jen , Yen Tzu‐Chen , Wen Yu‐Wen , Liao Chun‐Ta
Published: January 2024

Background

The current NCCN guidelines recommend considering elective neck dissection (END) for early‐stage oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) with a depth of invasion (DOI) exceeding 3 mm. However, this DOI threshold, determined by evaluating the occult lymph node metastatic rate, lacks robust supporting evidence regarding its impact on patient outcomes. In this nationwide study, we sought to explore the specific indications for END in patients diagnosed with OCSCC at stage cT2N0M0, as defined by the AJCC Eighth Edition staging criteria.

Methods

We examined 4723 patients with cT2N0M0 OCSCC, of which 3744 underwent END and 979 were monitored through neck observation (NO).

Results

Patients who underwent END had better 5‐year outcomes compared to those in the NO group. The END group had higher rates of neck control (95% vs. 84%, p < 0.0001), disease‐specific survival (DSS; 87% vs. 84%, p = 0.0259), and overall survival (OS; 79% vs. 73%, p = 0.0002). Multivariable analysis identified NO, DOI ≥5.0 mm, and moderate‐to‐poor tumor differentiation as independent risk factors for 5‐year neck control, DSS, and OS. Based on these prognostic variables, three distinct outcome subgroups were identified within the NO group. These included a low‐risk subgroup (DOI <5 mm plus well‐differentiated tumor), an intermediate‐risk subgroup (DOI ≥5.0 mm or moderately differentiated tumor), and a high‐risk subgroup (poorly differentiated tumor or DOI ≥5.0 mm plus moderately differentiated tumor). Notably, the 5‐year survival outcomes (neck control/DSS/OS) for the low‐risk subgroup within the NO group (97%/95%/85%, n = 251) were not inferior to those of the END group (95%/87%/79%).

Conclusions

By implementing risk stratification within the NO group, we found that 26% (251/979) of low‐risk patients achieved outcomes similar to those in the END group. Therefore, when making decisions regarding the implementation of END in patients with cT2N0M0 OCSCC, factors such as DOI and tumor differentiation should be taken into account.
Health insurance as a moderator in the relationship between financial toxicity and medical cost‐coping behaviors: Evidence from patients with lung cancer in China
Authors: Cui Yongchun , Lv Jingjing , Hu Xiaoyu , Zhu Dawei
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study investigates the relationship between financial toxicity and medical cost‐coping behaviors (MCCB) in Chinese patients with lung cancer, with a particular focus on the moderating role of health insurance.

Methods

We surveyed 218 patients with lung cancer and assessed their Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST) and self‐reported MCCB. Patients were categorized into Urban Employee's Basic Medical Insurance (UEBMI) group and Urban–Rural Resident Basic Medical Insurance Scheme (URRBMI) groups by their medical insurance, and matched for socioeconomic, demographic, and disease characteristics via propensity score.

Results

Significant different characteristics were noted between UEBMI patients and URRBMI patients. Patients with UEBMI had higher COST scores but lower levels of MCCB compared to URRBMI patients in the original dataset. After data matching, multivariate logit regression analysis showed that better financial toxicity was associated with lower levels of MCCB (OR = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.92–0.99). Health insurance type did not have a direct association with cost‐coping behaviors, but an interaction was observed between health insurance type and financial toxicity. Among patients with URRBMI, better financial toxicity was associated with lower levels of cost‐coping behaviors (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.83–0.95). Patients with UEBMI had a lower probability of engaging in any cost‐coping behaviors in situations of worse financial toxicity compared to patients with URRBMI.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that financial toxicity is correlated with MCCB in Chinese patients with lung cancer. The type of health insurance, specifically UEBMI and URRBMI, plays a moderating role in this relationship. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing targeted interventions and policies to mitigate financial toxicity and improve patients' management of medical costs.
Solvent‐free synthesis of hydrophobic and amphiphilic esters using a chemically modified lipase from Thermomyces lanuginosus: a comparative study with native and immobilized forms
Authors: Roque Catarina S. , de Castro Mariana , Castro Tarsila G. , Silva Carla , Cavaco‐Paulo Artur , Noro Jennifer
Published: January 2024

Using lipases to catalyze the synthesis of the most differentiated type of compounds remains one of the major challenges among scientists. Seeking more economic and advantageous catalysts is a current goal of green chemistry. In this work, we demonstrate the potential of a chemically modified form of lipase from Thermomyces lanuginosus (cmLTL) for the synthesis of both hydrophobic (heptyl heptanoate, heptyl octanoate, heptyl decanoate, decyl heptanoate, decyl octanoate and decyl decanoate) and amphiphilic (2‐(2‐ethoxyethoxy)ethyl oleate and 2‐(2‐ethoxyethoxy)ethyl linoleate) esters, in bulk. The results were compared with its native (LTL) and immobilized (imLTL) forms. The data revealed that LTL showed poor activity for all reactions performed with n‐heptane (η<20 %). ImLTL was able to synthesize all hydrophobic esters (η>60 %), with exception of the short ester, heptyl heptanoate. cmLTL was the only form of LTL capable of producing hydrophobic and amphiphilic esters, without compromising the yield when the reactions were performed under solvent‐free conditions (>50 %). Molecular modeling showed that the active pocket of cmLTL is able to deeply internalize transcutol, with stronger interactions, justifying the outstanding results obtained. Furthermore, owing to the possibility of cmLTL filtration, the reusability of the catalyst is ensured for at least 6 cycles, without compromising the reaction yields.
Aggressive progressive pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis developed long after allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Imataki Osamu , Uemura Makiko
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

The typical pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is characterized by late‐onset progressive pulmonary complication within 5 years. PPFE shows a poor prognosis without definitive standard care other than lung transplantation. Our case indicated an over 20 years late‐onset and aggressively exacerbating PPFE.
New polypyridine Ru(II) dinuclear complex capable of catalyzing the water oxidation reaction
Authors: Peyrot Analia Mercedes , Zelaya María Priscila , Fagalde Florencia
Published: January 2024

In natural and artificial photosynthesis, the water oxidation reaction is the bottleneck for the conversion of solar energy into chemical energy. In this work, we report the syntheses and physicochemical characterization of two new dinuclear Ru(II) complexes, with molecular formula [{Ru(tpy)Cl}2(μ‐dpp)](PF6)2 (1) and [{Ru(tpy)(H2O)}2(μ‐dpp)](PF6)4 (2) (with tpy=2,2’ : 6’,2”‐terpyridine and dpp=2,3‐bis(2‐pyridyl)pyrazine). Chloro‐complex (1) was used as a precursor for the aquo‐complex (2) which can act as an active water oxidation reaction catalyst using Ce(IV) in CF3COOH 0.1 M as sacrificial oxidant. The mechanism and rate constants were explored by combining conventional mixing and stopped‐flow experiments with spectrophotometric monitoring in the UV‐visible region. DFT and TD‐DFT calculations were done to support the assignments of the experimental data. From the kinetic and theoretical data obtained, we propose‐ that (2) catalyses water oxidation via a nucleophillic water attack mechanism (WNA). Besides, catalytic activity for (2) was evaluated from reported values of turnover frequency (TOF) and turnover number (TON) values at pH=1.
In Vitro Proliferation of Lymphocytes from Celiac Children and Their First‐Degree Relatives in Response to Wheat Gliadin‐Derived Peptides
Authors: Auricchio Salvatore , Buffolano Wilma , Ciccimarra Filippo , De Vincenzi Massimo , Silano Vittorio , Zapponi Giovanni
Published: January 2024

Evidence is accumulating which indicates that immune reactions to gliadins are involved in the pathogenesis of celiac disease, as humoral‐ and cell‐mediated immune responses to gliadins have been demonstrated in the jejunal mucosa and the peripheral blood of patients. An abnormal specific immunological response to gliadins is demonstrated not only in celiac children but also in their first‐degree relatives. Seventy‐eight percent of celiac patients, and 67, 87, and 100% of their fathers, siblings, and mothers, respectively, have a peripheral blood lymphocyte population reacting in vitro with a proliferation response to at least one of four peptide mixtures obtained from bread and durum wheat gliadins using a procedure simulating in vivo protein digestion. The specificity of this immunological hyperresponsiveness against wheat gliadins is shown by two sets of data: (a) Lymphocytes from celiac children and their relatives were much less sensitive to peptides from rice prolamin and not at all sensitive to peptides from wheat albumins. (b) Only 7% of 30 adult controls had a proliferative response of their peripheral lymphocytes to wheat gliadin peptides. It is not known at this time if healthy relatives of celiac patients mount an immune response against the intestine in vivo. However, it is possible that the presence of lymphocytes reactive to wheat gliadin peptides in apparently healthy relatives of celiac patients may explain why these relatives develop histologic evidence of celiac disease when their gluten intake is increased (Doherty M. Barry RF. Lancet 1981:1:517–20).
Effects of Hydrocortisone and Cholecystokinin‐Octapeptide on Neonatal Rat Pancreas
Authors: Werlin Steven L. , Stefaniak John
Published: January 2024

Hydrocortisone and cholecystokinin‐octapeptide (CCK‐8) were injected into newborn rats on day 1–5 of life. Both agents induced significant increases in pancreatic weight, protein, DNA, and specific activities of amylase, chymotrypsinogen, and lipase. The ability of the pancreas to secrete amylase in response to carbachol was decreased by the administration of hydrocorticosterone at age 7 days. CCK‐8 increased basal secretion at 7 days. We conclude that growth and secretory capacity of the newborn rat pancreas are under the control of both glucocorticoids and cholecystokinin.
Acute Viral Hepatitis in Childhood
Authors: Caporaso N. , Coltorti M. , Del Vecchio‐Blanco C. , Mele A. , Ambrogio G. , Stroffolini T. , Aldershvile J. , Nielsen J. O.
Published: January 2024

A study of 164 consecutive patients (97 males, 67 females; aged 3–11 years) with acute hepatitis was done. Hepatitis A was the most frequent etiologic type. It occurred in 82.7% of the 3–5‐year age group, and in 72.2% and 57.2% of the 6–8− and 9–11‐year age groups, respectively. Non‐A, non‐B hepatitis was rather infrequent (4.3%). Hepatitis B occurred in 13.7% of the 3–5‐year age group and reached 39.6% in the 9–11‐year age group. While all hepatitis A and non‐A, non‐B cases recovered within a relatively short time, hepatitis B patients recovered more slowly; two cases recovered 1 year after the onset of symptoms. Chronicity was demonstrated in 23.8% of hepatitis B patients 2 years after the onset of the disease. HB***8Ag clearance was slower in children than in adults. At 4 months, only 59% of patients had serum converted, and a chronic carrier state occurred in 13 of 42 subjects followed for up to 2 years (three healthy carriers and 10 with chronic hepatitis of various types). Our data show that persistence of HB***8Ag positivity does not always lead to chronicity in children. Of the eight patients HB***8Ag‐positive 1 year after the onset of symptoms, two recovered.
Developmental Changes in Bilirubin Production in the Rat
Authors: Johnson John D. , Wetmore Donna L. , Martinez C. William , Ostrander Clinton R.
Published: January 2024

Total bilirubin production and relative rates of early labeling of bilirubin (ELB) were determined in rats during postnatal development. Total production was estimated by measuring endogenous rate of excretion of carbon monoxide (Veco), while ELB was determined by measuring the incorporation of glycine‐2‐14C and $dT‐aminolevulinic acid‐5‐14C($dT‐ALA‐5‐14C) into expired 14CO over a 30‐h period after isotope injection. Veco was considerably higher in 1− and 4‐day‐old rat pups than in adults, but fell rapidly toward adult values by 9 days of age. 14CO excretion from both isotopic precursors of bilirubin was significantly greater in suckling animals than in postweanling and young adult animals when expressed as a percent of the administered radioactivity. The activity of hepatic heme oxygenase showed a similar pattern of postnatal change to 14CO excretion from both glycine‐2‐14C and $dT‐ALA‐5‐14C. However, phenobarbital administration to young weanling animals significantly increased 14CO excretion from glycine‐2‐14C, but did not result in a change in the activity of hepatic heme oxygenase. The activity of hepatic heme oxygenase does not always reflect in vivo ELB.
Effect of Diversion of Pancreatic Secretions on Biliary Lipids and Bile Salt Kinetics in the Rat
Authors: Roy Claude C. , Fournier Lyse‐Andrée , Chartrand Liette , Lepage Guy , Yousef Ibrahim
Published: January 2024

The hypothesis that the absence of pancreatic secretions from the lumen of the intestinal tract could alter the secretion rate of biliary lipids and the kinetics of bile salts was tested in rats with a pancreatic fistula fed intragastrically either a high or a low fat liquid diet over a 4‐day period. In animals with external derivation of all pancreatic secretions who were given the high fat diet, stools were pale and bulky, the basal synthesis rate of bile acids was almost twice that of controls, and there was an increase in the secretion rate of cholesterol and phospholipids calculated from the first 2 h of bile collection. On the low fat diet, there was no change in basal bile salt synthesis, but the pool was larger and the secretion rate of bile acids and phospholipids was increased. A study of the quantitative relationship between the excretion rate of phospholipids and of cholesterol to that of bile acids following complete biliary diversion revealed a disproportionately large output of cholesterol at low bile acid flow rates under both diets in rats with a pancreatic fistula. These data suggest that experimental pancreatic insufficiency leads to alterations of the secretion rate of biliary lipids and to uncoupling of the close relationship between bile acids and cholesterol.
Adaptive Response of Growing Rat Small Intestine to Acute AdriamycinTM Injury
Authors: Buts Jean‐Paul , De Meyer Roger , Van Craynest Marie‐Paule , Maldague Paul
Published: January 2024

The response of the intestinal mucosa to AdriamycinTM (ADR) was studied in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum of 25‐day‐old rats. A single injection of ADR resulted in decreases in mucosal DNA per centimeter of length and in sucrase activity, which were proportional to the doses given (2, 5, and 8 mg/kg). ADR at 2 mg/kg had no significant effect on body weight, gut length, epithelial structure, or mucosal protein content per unit length. The morphological modifications occurred mostly in the proximal intestine and consisted of villous atrophy and degenerative changes of villus and crypt cells. A single dose of 5 mg ADR/kg acutely affected the gut. At 48 and 96 h the changes were characterized by marked decreases in mucosal weight, DNA per centimeter, sucrase activity, and villous shortening. At 144 h, the ADR‐treated intestine entered a highly proliferative state and showed increased villous height, mucosal weight, and DNA per centimeter. Although villous hyperplasia was observed at 144 and 192 h, the mucosal weight and DNA concentrations did not exceed the corresponding levels in the control. During the period of active epithelial proliferation, sucrase activity remained depressed. We conclude that in the growing rat: (a) the acute intestinal injury of ADR is short‐lived, dose dependent, and predominates in the proximal small intestine: (b) the enteric mucosa reacts to cytotoxic injury by excessive proliferation of immature enterocytes; and (c) the hyperplastic response to ADR is confined to the mucosal epithelium.
Pulmonary Arteriovenous Fistulas
Authors: Maggiore Giuseppe , Borgna‐Pignatti Caterina , Marni Ernesto , Abbati Giuseppina , Magrini Umberto
Published: January 2024

A 16‐year‐old boy with congenital hepatic fibrosis, on whom a portocaval anastomosis was performed because of bleeding esophageal varices, developed lip cyanosis, exertional dyspnea, and clubbing of the fingers 7 years postoperatively. This progressive syndrome was caused by a right‐to‐left shunt due to the presence of pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas. Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, hypergammaglobulinemia, and histological features of cholangitis were also present. It is proposed that this unusual pulmonary complication of congenital hepatic fibrosis could be due either to congenital pulmonary abnormalities or to a chronic unrecognized cholangitis causing a progressive deterioration of liver histology and function, with subsequent opening of pulmonary arteriovenous shunts.
Macromolecular Absorption by Histologically Normal and Abnormal Small Intestinal Mucosa in Childhood
Authors: Jackson D. , Walker‐Smith J. A. , Phillips A. D.
Published: January 2024

Knowledge of the mechanism of macromolecular absorption in the small intestine is based largely on animal studies. We have attempted to assess qualitatively and quantitatively the amount and the mechanism of uptake of horseradish peroxidase (HRP), a model macromolecule, in human small intestine, employing biopsy material from children undergoing gastrointestinal investigations. The biopsy material was incubated in culture medium containing HRP, and a comparison was made between histologically normal and histologically abnormal biopsies. In the normal specimens HRP was detected in pinocytotic vesicles along the villious epithelium. It was also seen in multivesicular bodies and in the interepithelial cell spaces at the base and tip of the villus. These latter areas corresponded to regions where damaged and extruding enterocytes, diffusely penetrated by HRP, were seen. This demonstrates that intact macromolecules can be taken up by normal small intestine in vitro in childhood and indicates two possible routes of antigen entry: (a) by active absorption through intact enterocytes and (b) through damaged or extruding cells. In the abnormal specimens the distribution of HRP was more varied. Most specimens showed an increased presence of HRP in the interepithelial cell spaces and an increased number of enterocytes diffusely penetrated by HRP, but a decrease in pinocytosis in the most severely abnormal enterocytes. An increase in HRP was also observed in the basement membrane and, in one instance, within capillaries of the lamina propria. It was concluded that when an enteropathy is present, an increase in mucosal permeability to macromolecules may result. This is most likely due to an increase in the passive diffusion of macromolecules into the mucosa.
Incidence of Distal Intestinal Obstruction Syndrome in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Rosenstein Beryl J. , Langbaum Terry S.
Published: January 2024

A variety of intestinal complications, including constipation, abdominal pain, palpable cecal masses, intestinal obstruction, intussusception, and volvulus, have been observed beyond the neonatal period in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). In a retrospective chart review of 63 patients with CF, we found evidence of one or more of these complications in 26 patients (41.3%). The incidence of intestinal complications was not related to over‐all disease severity, pulmonary exacerbations, history of meconium ileus at birth, or dose or type of pancreatic enzyme replacement. There was no change in the incidence of intestinal complications after patients switched to a pH‐sensitive enteric‐coated microsphere enzyme preparation.
Biofeedback for Neurogenic Fecal Incontinence
Authors: Wald Arnold
Published: January 2024

Fifteen subjects (ages 5–33 years) with meningomyelocele and fecal incontinence underwent anorectal manometry followed by biofeedback conditioning of the external anal sphincter or nearby gluteal muscles. Seven of the 15 subjects undergoing biofeedback had improvement, defined as a 75% or greater decrease in the frequency of soiling, with a mean follow‐up period of 23.1 months (range, 8–30 months). The seven subjects who improved with biofeedback had significantly lower thresholds of rectal sensation (smallest volume of distension perceived) than did the eight nonresponders: all responders had a sensory threshold ≤ 20 ml, whereas five of eight nonresponders had thresholds exceeding this level. Twenty‐one children (ages 4–17 years) also underwent anorectal manometry, but not biofeedback conditioning, in order to evaluate the relationship of rectal sensation and peripheral neurological deficits. Fifteen of the 36 subjects with meningomyelocele had absent rectal sensation or thresholds exceeding 20 ml; there was no correlation of anorectal manometric parameters and peripheral sensorimotor levels. Response to biofeedback by children with meningomyelocele strongly correlates with rectal sensory thresholds which do not correlate with peripheral sensorimotor levels. If children with meningomyelocele and fecal incontinence are motivated and have adequate strength and coordination of the muscles of the lower extremities, anorectal manometry is the most accurate test to identify those who may benefit from biofeedback conditioning.
Intestinal Malignant Lymphoma in a Child with Familial Celiac Disease
Authors: Arnaud‐Battandier F. , Schmitz J. , Ricour C. , Rey J.
Published: January 2024

A case of intestinal malignant lymphoma occurring in a 10‐year‐old North African girl with celiac disease is reported. Celiac disease was diagnosed at age 4. A gluten‐free diet was started and was maintained for the next 6 years. Seven months after the patient returned to a normal diet, clinical symptoms and subtotal villous atrophy relapsed. Within the next month an abdominal malignant lymphoma was diagnosed. After chemotherapy the tumor disappeared but recurred 6 months later, involving the colon and the liver. Death occurred shortly thereafter. A brother, two years older, also with proven celiac disease, is presently on a strict gluten‐free diet. Both children shared the same histocompatibility antigens (HLA A2‐B17/A29‐B12, identity at the D locus). Whether or not relapse of celiac disease played a role in the appearance of the tumor remains highly speculative: however, the case of our patient suggests that familial involvement and, in some instances, ethnic origin may constitute risk factors predisposing to malignancy.
Hepatic Sinusoidal Dilation in the Course of Histiocytosis X
Authors: Fiorillo A. , Migliorati R. , Vajro P. , Pellegrini F. , Caldore M.
Published: January 2024

We present a case of disseminated histiocytosis X with hepatic involvement characterized by sinusoidal dilation. This histological feature regressed in connection with the clinical remission of the disease. The present report suggests that sinusoidal dilation might represent a feature of hepatic involvement in the course of histiocytosis X.
Evaluation of Different 15N‐Tracer Substances for Calculation of Whole Body Protein Parameters in Infants
Authors: Heine W. , Richter I. , Plath C. , Wutzke K. , Oswald F. , Oswald Susanne , Towe J.
Published: January 2024

The validity of using different 15N‐tracer substances to measure whole body protein parameters, i.e., protein synthesis, protein breakdown, net protein gain, protein turnover, metabolic pool, and reutilization, was assessed by comparing the results obtained with: [15N]glycine, a mixture of 10 15N‐labeled amino acids, and a 15N‐labeled chicken egg protein in two infants, 9 and 12 weeks old, who were fed human milk. The tracer substances were fed orally as a single dose corresponding to a 15N‐excess quantity of 0.2 mmol‐kg‐1 body weight. 15N Excretion in the urine was measured cumulatively by emission spectrometry, and the data on the protein metabolism were calculated by means of a three‐pool model. All three tests yielded consistent net protein gains. The protein synthesis, protein breakdown, protein turnover, and nitrogen reutilization values produced by the [15N]glycine tracer study were higher than those produced by application of the 15N‐amino acid mixture and the 15N‐labeled egg protein. However, in our opinion, this discrepancy does not justify the replacement of [15N]glycine by expensive 15N‐amino acid mixtures as tracer substances.