bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusive lensing as a mechanism of intracellular transport and compartmentalization
Authors: Raja Venkatesh Achuthan , Le Kathy H. , Weld David M. , Brandman Onn
Published: September 2023

While inhomogeneous viscosity has been identified as a ubiquitous feature of the cellular interior, its implications for particle mobility and concentration at different length scales remain largely unexplored. In this work, we use agent-based simulations of diffusion to investigate how heterogenous viscosity affects movement and concentration of diffusing particles. We propose that a nonequilibrium mode of membraneless compartmentalization arising from the convergence of diffusive trajectories into viscous sinks, which we call “diffusive lensing,” can occur in a wide parameter space and is thus likely to be ubiquitous in living systems. Our work highlights the phenomenon of diffusive lensing as a potentially key driver of mesoscale dynamics in the cytoplasm, with possible far-reaching implications for biochemical processes.
Inhibition of CERS1 in skeletal muscle exacerbates age-related muscle dysfunction
Authors: Wohlwend Martin , Laurila Pirkka-Pekka , Goeminne Ludger JE , Lima Tanes , Daskalaki Ioanna , Li Xiaoxu , von Alvensleben Giacomo , Crisol Barbara , Mangione Renata , Gallart-Ayala Hector , Lalou Amélia , Burri Olivier , Butler Stephen , Morris Jonathan , Turner Nigel , Ivanisevic Julijana , Auwerx Johan
Published: September 2023

Age-related muscle wasting and dysfunction render the elderly population vulnerable and incapacitated, while underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we implicate the CERS1 enzyme of the de novo sphingolipid synthesis pathway in the pathogenesis of age-related skeletal muscle impairment. In humans, CERS1 abundance declines with aging in skeletal muscle cells and, correlates with biological pathways involved in muscle function and myogenesis. Furthermore, CERS1 is upregulated during myogenic differentiation. Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of CERS1 in aged mice blunts myogenesis and deteriorates aged skeletal muscle mass and function, which is associated with the occurrence of morphological features typical of inflammation and fibrosis. Ablation of the CERS1 orthologue lagr-1 in Caenorhabditis elegans similarly exacerbates the age-associated decline in muscle function and integrity. We discover genetic variants reducing CERS1 expression in human skeletal muscle and Mendelian randomization analysis in the UK biobank cohort shows that these variants reduce muscle grip strength and overall health. In summary, our findings link age-related impairments in muscle function to a reduction in CERS1, thereby underlining the importance of the sphingolipid biosynthesis pathway in age-related muscle homeostasis.
Retinal metabolism displays evidence for uncoupling of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation via Cori-, Cahill-, and mini-Krebs-cycle
Authors: Chen Yiyi , Zizmare Laimdota , Calbiague Victor , Wang Lan , Yu Shirley , Herberg Fritz W , Schmachtenberg Oliver , Paquet-Durand Francois , Trautwein Christoph
Published: September 2023

The retina consumes massive amounts of energy, yet its metabolism and substrate exploitation remain poorly understood. Here, we used a murine explant model to manipulate retinal energy metabolism under entirely controlled conditions and utilised 1H-NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics, in situ enzyme detection, and cell viability readouts to uncover the pathways of retinal energy production. Our experimental manipulations resulted in varying degrees of photoreceptor degeneration, while the inner retina and retinal pigment epithelium were essentially unaffected. This selective vulnerability of photoreceptors suggested very specific adaptations in their energy metabolism. Rod photoreceptors were found to rely strongly on oxidative phosphorylation, but only mildly on glycolysis. Conversely, cone photoreceptors were dependent on glycolysis but insensitive to electron transport chain decoupling. Importantly, photoreceptors appeared to uncouple glycolytic and Krebs-cycle metabolism via three different pathways: (1) the mini-Krebs-cycle, fuelled by glutamine and branched chain amino acids, generating N-acetylaspartate; (2) the alanine-generating Cahill-cycle; (3) the lactate-releasing Cori-cycle. Moreover, the metabolomics data indicated a shuttling of taurine and hypotaurine between the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors, likely resulting in an additional net transfer of reducing power to photoreceptors. These findings expand our understanding of retinal physiology and pathology and shed new light on neuronal energy homeostasis and the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.
The retina uncouples glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation via Cori-, Cahill-, and mini-Krebs-cycle
Authors: Chen Yiyi , Zizmare Laimdota , Calbiague Victor , Wang Lan , Yu Shirley , Herberg Friedrich W. , Schmachtenberg Oliver , Paquet-Durand François , Trautwein Christoph
Published: September 2023

The retina consumes massive amounts of energy, yet its metabolism and substrate exploitation remain poorly understood. Here, we used a murine explant model to manipulate retinal energy metabolism under entirely controlled conditions and utilized 1 H-NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics, in situ enzyme detection, and cell viability readouts to uncover the pathways of retinal energy production. Our experimental manipulations resulted in varying degrees of photoreceptor degeneration, while the inner retina and retinal pigment epithelium were essentially unaffected. This selective vulnerability of photoreceptors suggested very specific adaptations in their energy metabolism. Rod photoreceptors were found to rely strongly on oxidative phosphorylation, but only mildly on glycolysis. Conversely, cone photoreceptors were highly dependent on glycolysis but insensitive to electron transport chain decoupling. Importantly, photoreceptors were able to uncouple glycolytic and Krebs-cycle metabolism via three different pathways: 1) the mini-Krebs-cycle, fueled by glutamine and branched-chain amino acids, generating N-acetylaspartate; 2) the alanine-generating Cahill-cycle; 3) the lactate-releasing Cori-cycle. Moreover, the metabolomic data indicated a shuttling of taurine and hypotaurine between the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors, resulting in an additional net transfer of reducing power to photoreceptors. These findings expand our understanding of retinal physiology and pathology and shed new light on neuronal energy homeostasis and the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases.Retinal photoreceptors employ both glucose and glutamate as fuels. While rod photoreceptors rely strongly on oxidative phosphorylation and the N-acetylaspartate producing mini-Krebs-cycle, cone photoreceptors rely on the lactate-producing Cori cycle and the oxidative, alanine-producing Cahill cycle.The retina utilizes a complex energy switchboard consisting of the Krebs cycle, mini-Krebs cycle, Cahill cycle, and Cori cycle.Mini-Krebs cycle runs more efficiently than ‘full’ Krebs cycle.Alanine transaminase decouples glycolysis from the Krebs cycle.Lactate, alanine, and N-acetylaspartate are distinctive energetic pathway signatures.
Improved transfer learning using textural features conflation and dynamically fine-tuned layers
Authors: Wanjiku Raphael Ngigi , Nderu Lawrence , Kimwele Michael
Published: September 2023

Transfer learning involves using previously learnt knowledge of a model task in addressing another task. However, this process works well when the tasks are closely related. It is, therefore, important to select data points that are closely relevant to the previous task and fine-tune the suitable pre-trained model’s layers for effective transfer. This work utilises the least divergent textural features of the target datasets and pre-trained model’s layers, minimising the lost knowledge during the transfer learning process. This study extends previous works on selecting data points with good textural features and dynamically selected layers using divergence measures by combining them into one model pipeline. Five pre-trained models are used: ResNet50, DenseNet169, InceptionV3, VGG16 and MobileNetV2 on nine datasets: CIFAR-10, CIFAR-100, MNIST, Fashion-MNIST, Stanford Dogs, Caltech 256, ISIC 2016, ChestX-ray8 and MIT Indoor Scenes. Experimental results show that data points with lower textural feature divergence and layers with more positive weights give better accuracy than other data points and layers. The data points with lower divergence give an average improvement of 3.54% to 6.75%, while the layers improve by 2.42% to 13.04% for the CIFAR-100 dataset. Combining the two methods gives an extra accuracy improvement of 1.56%. This combined approach shows that data points with lower divergence from the source dataset samples can lead to a better adaptation for the target task. The results also demonstrate that selecting layers with more positive weights reduces instances of trial and error in selecting fine-tuning layers for pre-trained models.
Basal sauropodomorph locomotion: ichnological lessons from the Late Triassic trackways of bipeds and quadrupeds (Elliot Formation, main Karoo Basin)
Authors: Sciscio Lara , Bordy Emese M. , Lockley Martin G. , Abrahams Miengah
Published: September 2023

Using modern ichnological and stratigraphic tools, we reinvestigate two iconic sauropodomorph-attributed tetradactyl ichnogenera, Pseudotetrasauropus and Tetrasauropus, and their stratigraphic occurrences in the middle Upper Triassic of Lesotho. These tracks have been reaffirmed and are stratigraphically well-constrained to the lower Elliot Formation (Stormberg Group, Karoo Basin) with a maximum depositional age range of <219–209 Ma (Norian). This represents the earliest record of basal sauropodomorph trackways in Gondwana, if not globally. Track and trackway morphology, the sedimentary context of the tracks, and unique features (e.g., drag traces) have enabled us to discuss the likely limb postures and gaits of the trackmakers. Pseudotetrasauropus has bipedal (P. bipedoida) and quadrupedal (P. jaquesi) trackway states, with the oldest quadrupedal Pseudotetrasauropus track and trackway parameters suggestive of a columnar, graviportal limb posture in the trackmaker. Moreover, an irregularity in the intermanus distance and manus orientation and morphology, in combination with drag traces, is indicative of a non-uniform locomotory suite or facultative quadrupedality. Contrastingly, Tetrasauropus, the youngest trackway, has distinctive medially deflected, robust pedal and manual claw traces and a wide and uniform intermanus distance relative to the interpedal. These traits suggest a quadrupedal trackmaker with clawed and fleshy feet and forelimbs held in a wide, flexed posture. Altogether, these trackways pinpoint the start of the southern African ichnological record of basal sauropodomorphs with bipedal and quadrupedal locomotory habits to, at least, c. 215 Ma in the middle Late Triassic.
Time-calibrated phylogeny and full mitogenome sequence of the Galapagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) from scat DNA
Authors: Asadobay Pacarina , Urquía Diego O. , Künzel Sven , Espinoza-Ulloa Sebastian A. , Vences Miguel , Páez-Rosas Diego
Published: September 2023

Background

The Galapagos sea lion, Zalophus wollebaeki, is an endemic and endangered otariid, which is considered as a sentinel species of ecosystem dynamics in the Galapagos archipelago. Mitochondrial DNA is an important tool in phylogenetic and population genetic inference. In this work we use Illumina sequencing to complement the mitogenomic resources for Zalophus genus—the other two species employed Sanger sequencing—by a complete mitochondrial genome and a molecular clock of this species, which is not present in any case.

Materials and Methods

We used DNA obtained from a fresh scat sample of a Galapagos sea lion and shotgun-sequenced it on the Illumina NextSeq platform. The obtained raw reads were processed using the GetOrganelle software to filter the mitochondrial Zalophus DNA reads (∼16% survive the filtration), assemble them, and set up a molecular clock.

Results

From the obtained 3,511,116 raw reads, we were able to assemble a full mitogenome of a length of 16,676 bp, consisting of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNAs (tRNA), and two ribosomal RNAs (rRNA). A time-calibrated phylogeny confirmed the phylogenetic position of Z. wollebaeki in a clade with Z. californianus, and Z. japonicus, and sister to Z. californianus; as well as establishing the divergence time for Z. wollebaeki 0.65 million years ago. Our study illustrates the possibility of seamlessly sequencing full mitochondrial genomes from fresh scat samples of marine mammals.
Areas of spatial overlap between common bottlenose dolphin, recreational boating, and small-scale fishery: management insights from modelling exercises
Authors: La Manna Gabriella , Ronchetti Fabio , Perretti Francesco , Ceccherelli Giulia
Published: September 2023

Background

Sustainable management requires spatial mapping of both species distribution and human activities to identify potential risk of conflict. The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is a priority species of the European Union Habitat Directive, thus, to promote its conservation, the understanding of habitat use and distribution, as well as the identification and spatial trend of the human activities which may directly affect populations traits, is pivotal.

Methods

A MaxEnt modeling approach was applied to predict the seasonal (from April to September) habitat use of a smallpopulationof bottlenose dolphins in the north-western Sardinia (Mediterranean Sea) in relation to environmental variables and the likelihoods of boat and fishing net presence. Then, the overlapping areas between dolphin, fishing net and boat presence were identified to provide insights for the marine spatial management of this area.

Results

Three of the main factors influencing the seasonal distribution of bottlenose dolphins in the area are directly (boating and fishing) or indirectly (ocean warming) related to human activities. Furthermore, almost half of the most suitable area for dolphins overlapped with areas used by fishing and boating. Finally, relying on fishing distribution models, we also shed light on the potential impact of fishing on thePosidonia oceanicabeds, a protected habitat, which received higher fishing efforts than other habitat types.

Discussion

Modelling the spatial patterns of anthropogenic activities was fundamental to understand the ecological impacts both on cetacean habitat use and protected habitats. A greater research effort is suggested to detect potential changes in dolphin habitat suitability, also in relation to ocean warming, to assess dolphin bycatch and the status of target fish species, and to evaluate sensitive habitats conditions, such as thePosidonia oceanicameadow.
Molecular phylogenetic study of Utricularia section Oligocista in Australia and a new Cape York endemic species
Authors: Jobson Richard W , Baleeiro Paulo
Published: September 2023

Utricularia section Oligocista A.DC. (Lentibulariaceae) is distributed across the old and new world tropics. Wepresent a molecular phylogeny using a matrix of the nuclear ITS and two chloroplast markers that includes 19of the 37 recognised species sampled across the range of each species. The phylogenetic study also includesmembers of the closely allied sections Enskide (Raf.) P.Taylor (including section Minutae Lowrie, Cowie &Conran) and Stomoisia (Raf.) Kuntze from across each of their distributions. The phylogeny shows that Australiacontains species from the two major clades of section Oligocista, with each involving ancestors with yellow andpurple/mauve corolla colours. This study provides morphological and molecular evidence for recognition of anew species, Utricularia irwinica R.W.Jobson & Baleeiro, from Cape York Peninsula, Queensland. A lectotypeis designated for the name Utricularia cyanea var. alba Benth. We also recommend changes to the taxonomyof sections Enskide and Oligocista based on the phylogenetic results and morphology.
Modelo sintético de simulación reconstrucción de fracturas orbito cigomáticas mediante técnica mínimamente invasiva de abordaje transconjuntival con extensión lateral en piel
Authors:   , Vargas Becerra Enrique Octavio
Published: September 2023

OBJETIVO: Desarrollar una herramienta pedagógica modular para becados de Cirugía y Traumatología Buco Maxilofacial en el curso de Traumatología Maxilofacial, que permita desarrollar pasos de simulación clínica para el entrenamiento inicial de habilidades quirúrgicas en cirugía de reconstrucción del complejo orbitocigomático con una técnica mínimamente invasiva. MATERIALES Y METODO: Mediante Impresión digital en 3D, técnicas de impresión más clásicas con alginato, técnicas de vaciado en yeso y poliuretano-12, técnicas de relleno incremental por capas de siliconas de polimerización en platino, y siguiendo las indicaciones del equipo docente del Centro de Simulación Uc se le dio forma al Fantoma de simulación de cirugía de reconstrucción del complejo orbito cigomático con técnica mínimamente invasiva. RESULTADO: Se lograron reproducir fielmente los tejidos duros y blandos del tercio medio facial y en particular el tejido periorbitario y su contenido. Simulando tejido cutáneo, subcutáneo, graso, muscular, periostio, esclera y ojo, conjuntiva, y el paquete vasculonervioso del penacho infra orbitario, además de fracturas de la sutura frontocigomática, y de piso de orbita con herniación del contenido de la órbita, que permite la instalación de mallas y tornillos de osteosíntesis. CONCLUSIONES: En una era de creciente conciencia de los errores médicos y preocupación por la seguridad del paciente, se requiere una formación constante de estudiantes y especialistas. Y con cánones bioéticos más estrictos ya no se puede aprender a realizar un procedimiento directamente sobre el paciente, y la opción de simuladores cadavéricos o animales presentan desventajas inherentes y de acceso que este modelo sintético puede solucionar.
Key learnings Chile can adopt to create and implement a national registry of rare diseases?
Authors:   , Vijayran Hemant
Published: September 2023

There are 7000 identified rare diseases (RD) globally, and the definition of each RD varies from country to country. RD are often chronic, progressive, and frequently life-threatening. It is estimated that almost 400 million people are living with one of the 7000 identified RD globally, taking in account their families, the actual number of people that are affected directly or indirectly with RD is very high, hence declaring RD a public health problem. In Chile, it is estimated that 1 (one) million people are living with one of the RD. As little is known about these diseases in Chile, often RD remain underdiagnosed due to lack of epidemiological and real-world evidence data. To understand Chilean epidemiological situation and to better manage this neglected public health problem, it is crucial to have the national registry of RD first to understand epidemiological & socio demographic situation then to provide the integrated approach to include RD in the national health care plan, to further strengthen framework of RD and with overall objective to be able to improve the life of patients, caregivers & their families. Using a combination of literature surveys, the author evaluated Chile’s rare disease landscape and made some recommendations to the key learnings Chile can adopt to create and implement a national registry of RD. The literature review includes the latest revision of available literature in Colombia and France; countries that have managed to develop the successful national RD registry. Keywords: Rare Diseases, National Registry Chile, Literature review, Recommendations
Asociación entre niveles séricos de bilirrubina, variantes genéticas en UGT1A1 e hígado graso no-alcohólico en adolescentes de la cohorte chilena “Estudio de crecimiento y obesidad”
Authors:   , Galindo Muñoz Karen Melissa
Published: September 2023

Introducción: La bilirrubina es una molécula resultante de la degradación del grupo hemo, y que es conjugada en el hígado con ácido glucurónico por la enzima UGT1A1 (uridina difosfato glucuroniltransferasa 1A1) dando lugar a bilirrubina conjugada. Junto al incremento de la prevalencia de obesidad a lo largo de la vida, se ha observado un avance en la frecuencia de acumulación de grasa intrahepática que progresa a enfermedad de hígado graso no alcohólico (HGNA), siendo ésta la primera causa de trasplante hepático en Chile en población adulta. Se ha observado que las personas con síndrome de Gilbert, caracterizado por mutaciones en UGT1A1 y niveles séricos de bilirrubina ligeramente elevados, podría mostrar una menor incidencia de hígado graso, en relación con personas con niveles de bilirrubina normales. Objetivo: Evaluar la asociación entre bilirrubina sérica y presencia de hígado graso no alcohólico en participantes del estudio chileno de crecimiento y obesidad (ECO), con un enfoque de randomización mendeliana usando genotipos UGT1A1 como variable instrumental. Metodología: Se analizaron 750 adolescentes participantes de la cohorte chilena ECO, con edad promedio de 15.4 ± 0.98 años, 51.6% mujeres. Un 9.6% de la muestra presenta diagnóstico de hígado graso evaluado mediante ultrasonografía. Además, se cuenta con mediciones antropométricas (IMC, presión arterial) y metabólicas (pruebas hepáticas). Se determinaron niveles séricos de bilirrubina total y directa. El genotipo UGT1A1 (rs6742078) se determinó mediante uso selectivo de información procedente del microarreglo genómico MEGA-Illumina. La asociación entre variables se evaluó mediante regresión lineal y regresión logística múltiple. Resultados: La asociación entre bilirrubina plasmática total e hígado graso resultó en una odds ratio significativo de 0.70 (IC 95%; 0.51 – 0.97; p=0.03). Sin embargo, la asociación entre genotipos rs6742078 de UGT1A1 e hígado graso resultó en una odds ratio no significativa de 1.41 para el genotipo GT (IC 95%: 0.77 – 2.59; P = 0.27) y 0.80 para el genotipo TT (IC 95%: 0.29 – 2.18; P = 0.66) (referencia: genotipo GG), tras ajuste por edad, sexo, índice de masa corporal y tres componentes principales de etnia. Conclusión: Existe una asociación significativa entre niveles de bilirrubina plasmáticos y presencia de hígado graso en adolescentes. Sin embargo, al análisis de randomización mendeliana con genotipos UGT1A1 no ha podido demostrar inequívocamente que esta asociación sea de tipo causal.
Diferencia de costos intrahospitalarios entre pacientes de muy bajo peso al nacer con y sin displasia broncopulmonar en 14 centros de Chile
Authors:   , Pettinelli Díaz Gonzalo Alfredo
Published: September 2023

El análisis de costos permite conocer cuánto se gasta y cómo se invierten los recursos para determinar la eficiencia del sistema. En este sentido, el análisis de costos ofrece grandes posibilidades para la gestión hospitalaria y la toma de decisiones. Por su parte, la displasia broncopulmonar es una enfermedad asociada a múltiples factores de riesgo, siendo además la morbimortalidad más frecuente en prematuros de muy bajo peso. Si bien el porcentaje de prematuros de muy bajo peso es bajo, los costos de esta población son los más elevados de las unidades de neonatología. El costo de los problemas de salud en Chi le han sido históricamente considerados al momento de definir las prioridades de la agenda de políticas públicas, pero desconocemos la magnitud atribuible a la DBP. Por esto, el objetivo de esta tesis es determinar cuál es la diferencia de costos intrahospitalarios en pacientes con y sin DBP en neonatos menores a 1.500 gramos en Chile. Para esto se llevó a cabo un estudio de costos de la enfermedad de la base de datos de la Red NEOCOSUR en 5.016 pacientes. Como resultados se demostró que el costo promedio intrahospitalario de los pacientes con DBP es 2.2 veces superior al de los pacientes sin DBP. Además se demostró que el costo aumenta a medida que la severidad de la DBP es mayor, y disminuye a medida que l a edad gestacional es mayor.
Prevalencia de niveles muy altos de colesterol HDL y su asociación con factores de riesgo cardiovascular y enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica en Chile
Authors:   , Rojas Silva María Paz
Published: September 2023

En estudios de tipo observacional y ensayos clínicos randomizados, se ha descrito una posible asociación entre niveles de colesterol HDL muy altos con la pérdida del efecto protector contra la aterosclerosis e incluso también se han asociado con un aumento del riesgo cardiovascular. Establecer si los niveles de colesterol HDL muy altos se asocian con factores de riesgo y enfermedad cardiovascular ateroesclerótica en la población chilena estudiada en la Encuesta Nacional de Salud (ENS) 2016-2017. Se analizaron 3.560 adultos, mayores de 18 años de edad, evaluados en la Encuesta Nacional de Salud 2016-2017 con información de niveles de colesterol HDL y se correlacionaron los niveles de colesterol HDL muy altos con variables sociodemográficas, de estilo de vida y parámetros clínicos para identificar una posible relación de colesterol HDL muy alto con factores de riesgo cardiovascular y enfermedad aterosclerótica en Chile. Se definió como punto de corte para niveles de colesterol HDL muy alto en Chile al percentil 97,5 de la distribución que correspondió a 74/82 mg/dL en hombres y mujeres, respectivamente. Se observó que los sujetos con niveles de colesterol HDL muy altos tienen mayor edad y mayor chance de presentar cifras más elevadas de colesterol total, glicemia y presión arterial sistólica, pero menor probabilidad de reportar ECV previa (ECVP) (p=0,022) y que a mayor edad e IMC más alto aumenta la probabilidad de desarrollar ECVP (p=0,000 y p=0,02; respectivamente). Por otro lado, aquellos sujetos ex-fumadores y sujetos que tienen actividad física baja también presentan mayor chance de reportar eventos cardiovasculares analizados en este estudio (p=0,000 y p=0,001; respectivamente). En este estudio observacional de tipo transversal, se observó asociación entre niveles de colesterol HDL muy alto con factores de riesgo cardiovascular, más específicamente una relación inversa con enfermedad cardiovascular previa. Sin embargo, el análisis de esta relación requiere estudios con mayor tamaño muestral y de tipo longitudinal para validar o rechazar más cabalmente esta hipótesis en el contexto de nuestra población.
Dinâmicas de poder explicitadas no processo de reestruturação de uma Instituição Federal de Ensino Superior
Authors: Villardi Beatriz Quiroz , Salles Michelle de Andrade Souza Diniz , Fernandes Estela de Souza
Published: September 2023

Uma mudança organizacional que altere as relações de poder intensifica disputas políticas, seja para mudança radical, seja para mudança adaptativa com flexibilização da estrutura ou, para manutenção do status quo como ocorreu em uma centenária instituição federal de ensino superior (IFES), objeto deste estudo, quando da reforma em seu estatuto e regimento vigentes por 38 anos. Buscando melhor compreender as resistências a uma mudança efetiva e subsidiar a gestão da IFES, este estudo objetivou identificar as dinâmicas de poder no processo dessa mudança. Para tal, realizou-se pesquisa documental com observação participante cujos dados foram analisados por meio de interpretação indutiva hermenêutica.
A CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF NARASIMHA RASAYANA
Authors: Bakoliya Prem Sukh , N Saismitha , KS Sakhitha , Yadav Subhash
Published: September 2023

Among the eight branches of Ayurveda, Rasayana chikitsa is an important branch. The term Rasayana means the proper ayana (path), the footstep of nutritional requirements, which is the basis for a younger and healthy life. Ayurvedic classics explain Rasayana's effect as attaining longevity, memory, intellect, freedom from diseases, youth, excellence of lustre, complexion, voice, etc. Among the various Rasayana yogas mentioned in Ayurveda, Narasimha Rasayana (NR) is a unique formulation mentioned in Ashtanga Hridaya containing ingredients like Khadira, Chitraka, Shimshapa, Vijayasara, Haritaki, Vidanga, Vibhitaki, Bhallataka, Lohashakala, go-dugdha, Bhringaraja, Shatavari which are processed in navaneeta. The indications of the formulation include a strong, swift and steady physique with shining black hair, good complexion, good intellect, digestive power, etc. In the present review, an attempt has been made to analyse the formulation, highlighting the properties of individual ingredients from a classical and modern perspective. The study revealed that the ingredients of Narasimha Rasayana possess antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-mutagenic and hemopoietic effects, among other qualities, which point towards a possible rejuvenating impact on the human body.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE EFFICACY OF DIFFERENT AYURVEDIC PREPARATIONS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF AMLAPITTA (HYPERACIDITY): A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: MK Ashim , Pachori Menakshi
Published: September 2023

Amlapitta (Hyperacidity) is a prevalent digestive issue often associated with dietary habits and daily routines. The following systematic review specifies different Ayurvedic herbal preparations that can successfully treat Amlapitta. A literary search was carried out using “Amlapitta” as the main word. 84 papers were obtained as a whole, and 9 research papers were selected to conclude the study. The considered papers are studied and reviewed in traditional Ayurvedic literature dealing with the disease.
A REVIEW ON HERBAL MEDICINE IN INDIA: CURRENT MARKET TRENDS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Authors: Rohilla Pooja , Gupta Jay Prakash
Published: September 2023

Herbal medicines have been integral to India's traditional health care systems, especially Ayurveda, for centuries. In recent years, there has been a significant resurgence of interest in herbal medicine both domestically and globally, driven by the growing demand for natural and alternative healthcare solutions. In this study, we are trying to analyse the current market trends and opportunities in India's herbal medicine field. This study aims to have a preliminary understanding of the Indian herbal medicine market, market size, growth prospects, key players, and regulatory framework and also highlights the significant efforts of government ministries towards promoting the Herbal medicine market in India and Abroad. By analysing market trends and consumer preferences, this study offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers looking to tap into the potential of herbal medicine in India.
Effect of Sulphur and Vermicompost on Growth Parameters, Yield Attributes and Yield of Chickpea
Authors: Shukla Ashutosh , Mishra Ashutosh , Mishra U. S. , Sirothia Pawan , Singh Opendra Kumar , Jendre Anisha
Published: September 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2022-2023 at Rajoula Agriculture farm, of Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya Chitrakoot, Satna (M.P.). The present experiment having 4 levels of sulphur and 3 levels of vermicompost of 9 treatment combination replicated thrice in factorial randomized block design. Chickpea variety GNG-1958 (Marudhar)” was grown with recommended agronomic practices. On the basis of the results emanated from present investigation, it could be concluded that application of graded dose of sulphur significantly increases growth parameters (plant height, number of branches and number of nodule plant-1), yield attributes (number of pod plant-1, number of seed plant-1 and seed index) and seed yield. All the growth and yield parameters were significantly higher S @ 25 kg ha-1 as compared to S @ 20 kg ha-1 and S @15 kg ha-1. Similarly different levels of vermicompost significantly increases growth parameters (plant height, number of branches and number of nodule plant-1), yield attributes (number of pod plant-1, number of seed plant-1 and seed index) and seed yield. However, it is clear from the information you've provided that the treatment with V @ 5 t ha-1 had a positive and statistically significant impact on the growth and yield parameters of the crop, and when combined with S @ 25 kg ha-1, it produced the best results among the treatments tested.
Common Fixed Point of Contractive – Type Fuzzy Self Mapping in Real Banach Spaces
Authors: Kumar P. Senthil , Thiruveni P.
Published: September 2023

Fuzzy fixed point theorems for self-mappings of contractive type in real Banach Spaces are taken into consideration on this paper. The out-flip hypothesize and increase the sequel because of Fisher and Gregus. Mapping which considers right here isn't always commuting and given a few examples to aid the final results of the work.
The Opioid Settlements—Will the First Steps Be in the Right Direction?
Authors: Whaley Sara , Sharfstein Joshua
Published: September 2023

This JAMA Forum discusses ways the opioid settlement funds could be used to save lives today and in the future, aspects of the decisions surrounding funding, and the importance of measuring progress.
Exposure to Neighborhood Walkability and Residential Greenness and Incident Fracture
Authors: Zhu Zhanghang , Yang Zongming , Xu Lisha , Wu Yonghao , Yu Luhua , Shen Peng , Lin Hongbo , Shui Liming , Tang Mengling , Jin Mingjuan , Wang Jianbing , Chen Kun
Published: September 2023

Importance

Emerging studies have suggested that environmental factors are associated with fracture. However, little is known about the association of neighborhood walkability and residential greenness with fracture.

Objective

To investigate the association of long-term exposure to walkability and greenness with incident fracture and explore the potential interaction effect.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study recruited participants aged 40 years or older in Ningbo, China from June 2015 to January 2018. Participants were observed for outcomes through February 2023, with data analysis conducted in March 2023.

Exposures

Neighborhood walkability was measured by a modified walkability calculation method according to a walk score tool. Residential greenness was assessed by satellite-derived normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) within a 1000-m buffer.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Incident fracture was ascertained according to International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision codes via the Yinzhou Health Information System. Cox proportional hazards models were fit, with age as time scale to estimate the associations of walkability and greenness with fracture. Potential effect modification was explored by covariates, as well as the interactive effect of walkability and greenness.

Results

A total of 23 940 participants were included in this study with 13 735 being female (57.4%). The mean (SD) age at baseline was 63.4 (9.4) years. During a follow-up period of 134 638 person-years, 3322 incident fractures were documented. In the full adjusted model, every IQR increment in neighborhood walkability and residential greenness was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.88 (95% CI, 0.83-0.92) and 0.84 (95% CI, 0.80-0.89), respectively, for fracture. Furthermore, the association of greenness and fracture was greater with an increase in walkability. The HR (Q4 vs Q1) for greenness was 0.62 (95% CI, 0.46-0.82) in neighborhoods with the highest quartile of walkability.

Conclusions and Relevance

This population cohort study suggested that long-term exposure to neighborhood walkability and residential greenness were both associated with lower risk of incident fracture. The benefits of greenness increased in more walkable areas.
Rapid Point-of-Care Identification of Aspergillus Species in Microbial Keratitis
Authors: Gunasekaran Rameshkumar , Chandrasekaran Abinaya , Rajarathinam Karpagam , Duncan Sheelagh , Dhaliwal Kevin , Lalitha Prajna , Prajna N. Venkatesh , Mills Bethany
Published: September 2023

Importance

Microbial keratitis (MK) is a common cause of unilateral visual impairment, blindness, and eye loss in low-income and middle-income countries. There is an urgent need to develop and implement rapid and simple point-of-care diagnostics for MK to increase the likelihood of good outcomes.

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Aspergillus-specific lateral-flow device (AspLFD) to identify Aspergillus species causing MK in corneal scrape and corneal swab samples of patients presenting with microbial keratitis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This diagnostic study was conducted between May 2022 and January 2023 at the corneal clinic of Aravind Eye Hospital in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. All study participants were recruited during their first presentation to the clinic. Patients aged 15 years or older met the eligibility criteria if they were attending their first appointment, had a corneal ulcer that was suggestive of a bacterial or fungal infection, and were about to undergo diagnostic scrape and culture.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Sensitivity and specificity of the AspLFD with corneal samples collected from patients with MK. During routine diagnostic scraping, a minimally invasive corneal swab and an additional corneal scrape were collected and transferred to aliquots of sample buffer and analyzed by lateral-flow device (LFD) if the patient met the inclusion criteria. Photographs of devices were taken with a smartphone and analyzed using a ratiometric approach, which was developed for this study. The AspLFD results were compared with culture reports.

Results

The 198 participants who met the inclusion criteria had a mean (range) age of 51 (15-85) years and included 126 males (63.6%). Overall, 35 of 198 participants with corneal scrape (17.7%) and 17 of 40 participants with swab samples (42.5%) had positive culture results for Aspergillus species. Ratiometric analysis results for the scrape samples found that the AspLFD achieved high sensitivity (0.89; 95% CI, 0.74-0.95), high negative predictive value (0.97; 95% CI, 0.94-0.99), low negative likelihood ratio (0.12; 95% CI, 0.05-0.30), and an accuracy of 0.94 (95% CI, 0.90-0.97). Ratiometric analysis results for the swab samples showed that the AspLFD had high sensitivity (0.94; 95% CI, 0.73-1.00), high negative predictive value (0.95; 95% CI, 0.76-1.00), low negative likelihood ratio (0.07; 95% CI, 0.01-0.48), and an accuracy of 0.88 (95% CI, 0.73-0.96).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this diagnostic study suggest that AspLFD along with the ratiometric analysis of LFDs developed for this study has high diagnostic accuracy in identifying Aspergillus species from corneal scrapes and swabs. This technology is an important step toward the provision of point-of-care diagnostics for MK and could inform the clinical management strategy.
Amelanotic Fundus Lesion in an Older White Woman
Authors: Davuluri Sanjana , Vempuluru Vijitha S. , Shields Carol L.
Published: September 2023

An 81-year-old woman noted decreased vision in her left eye for 6 months. She had a history of macular degeneration in both eyes and retinal detachment in the left eye that was treated 35 years previously. What would you do next?
Siderophore specificities of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa TonB‐dependent transporters ChtA and ActA
Authors: Will Virginie , Gasser Véronique , Kuhn Lauriane , Fritsch Sarah , Heinrichs David E. , Schalk Isabelle J.
Published: September 2023

Iron is an essential nutrient for the survival and virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The pathogen expresses at least 15 different iron‐uptake pathways, the majority involving small iron chelators called siderophores. P. aeruginosa produces two siderophores, but can also use many produced by other microorganisms. This implies that the bacterium expresses appropriate TonB‐dependent transporters (TBDTs) at the outer membrane to import the ferric form of each of the siderophores used. Here, we show that the two α‐carboxylate‐type siderophores rhizoferrin‐Fe and staphyloferrin A‐Fe are transported into P. aeruginosa cells by the TBDT ActA. Among the mixed α‐carboxylate/hydroxamate‐type siderophores, we found aerobactin‐Fe to be transported by ChtA and schizokinen‐Fe and arthrobactin‐Fe by ChtA and another unidentified TBDT. Our findings enhance the understanding of the adaptability of P. aeruginosa and hold significant implications for developing novel strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.
Is the link between the Dark Tetrad and the acceptance of sexual violence mediated by sexual machismo?
Authors: Costa Rodrigo , Fávero Marisalva , Moreira Diana , Del Campo Amaia , Sousa‐Gomes Valéria
Published: September 2023

Previous studies have established relationships between the Dark Tetrad traits and sexual violence and its acceptance through myths about this type of violence. Sexual violence is positively associated with machismo, with sexist beliefs having been found to be linked with the Dark Tetrad and with the acceptance of sexual violence. Using a community sample comprising 362 adults between the ages of 18 and 70 (M = 35.6, SD = 14.3) and three self‐report measures, this cross‐sectional study aimed to explore the mediating role of sexual machismo in the relationship between each of the Dark Tetrad traits and the acceptance of sexual violence, both in the overall sample and by gender, as well as whether a significant variance in this acceptance is explained by the “dark” traits, sexual machismo, and gender. In the regression, sexual machismo (the male) gender, and only Machiavellianism were uniquely associated with the acceptance of sexual violence, and sexual machismo partially mediated the associations between the Dark Tetrad and the acceptance of sexual violence. These findings indicate that being male and higher in sexism is more closely linked with the acceptance of sexual violence than most Dark Tetrad traits. Moreover, the associations between the Dark Tetrad, sexual machismo, and the acceptance of sexual violence were stronger in men, consistent with the notion that these traits facilitate a “male” exploitive mating strategy, which likely also extends to victim‐blaming and positive attitudes about sexual violence more broadly. Lastly, the results emphasize the pervasiveness of beliefs about male superiority over women and its relationship with victim‐blaming even in women.
Exceptional Lithium‐Ion Storage Performance on an Azo‐Bridged Covalent Heptazine Framework
Authors: Yu Yanxin , Jin Qianqian , Zhu Dandan , Ren Yanbiao
Published: September 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) possesses rich pyridine nitrogens, which is helpful for facilitating electrochemical capability in Li+ storage; however, its poor conductivity is still the main challenge. Based on the knowledge of its intrinsic merits and defects, here, it is proposed to integrate active heptazine (HEP) species with functional linkers into orderly molecular structures for improved performance. As the first proof‐of‐concept, a unique azo‐linked covalent heptazine framework (Azo‐CHF) where two HEP units are bridged with azo linkages, is ingeniously designed and prepared to enhance the inherent charge conductivity for Li+ storage. Attributing to the deeply extended conjugation along overlapping azo nitrogens and the aromatic π system of HEP cores, Azo‐CHF with the lowest bandgap (2.58 eV) exhibits enhanced Li+/e− transport than g‐C3N4 through density functional theory calculations. Therefore, the Azo‐CHF anode exhibits an unprecedented performance with a large reversible capacity (1723.0 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), superior rate capability (824.0 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1), and impressive cyclability (756.5 mAh g−1 undergoing 1000 cycles at 10 A g−1). This study not only demonstrates the great application prospect of Azo‐CHF for Li+ storage, but also opens a fantastic window to further explore high‐performance electrodes by integrating HEP with other active motifs.
A Nano‐Autophagy Inhibitor Triggering Reciprocal Feedback Control of Cholesterol Depletion for Solid Tumor Therapy
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Shi Yanfeng , Xu Yuanhong , Liang Ye , Huang Chao , Zhong Di , Zhang Zhilei , Yu Yongbo , Zhang Zhao , Zhang Jianfeng , Yu Lei , Zuo Yuhui , Wang Xinsheng , Niu Haitao
Published: September 2023

Solid tumors are characterized by enhanced metabolism of lipid, particularly cholesterol, inspiring the exploration of metabolic therapy through cholesterol oxidase (COD)‐mediated cholesterol deprivation. However, the therapeutic efficacy of COD is limited due to the hypoxic tumor microenvironment and the protective autophagy triggered by cholesterol deprivation. Herein, a combination therapy for metabolically treating solid tumors through COD in conjunction with molybdenum oxide nanodots (MONDs), which serve as both potent oxygen generators and autophagy inhibitors, is reported. MONDs convert H2O2 (arising from COD‐mediated cholesterol oxidation) into O2, which is then recycled by COD to form reciprocal feedback for cholesterol depletion. Concurrently, MONDs can overcome autophagy‐induced therapeutic resistance frequently occurring in conventional nutrient deprivation therapy by activating AKT/mTOR pathway phosphorylation. Combination therapy in the xenograft model results in an ≈5‐fold increase in therapeutic efficiency as compared with COD treatment alone. This functionally cooperative metabolic coupling strategy holds great promise as a novel polytherapy approach that will benefit patients with solid tumors.
A Simple and Versatile Approach for the Low‐Temperature Synthesis of Transition Metal Phosphide Nanoparticles from Metal Chloride Complexes and P(SiMe3)3
Authors: Sodreau Alexandre , Zahedi Hooman Ghazi , Dervişoğlu Rıza , Kang Liqun , Menten Julia , Zenner Johannes , Terefenko Nicole , DeBeer Serena , Wiegand Thomas , Bordet Alexis , Leitner Walter
Published: September 2023

Metal chloride complexes react with tris(trimethylsilyl)phosphine under mild condition to produce metal phosphide (TMP) nanoparticles (NPs), and chlorotrimethylsilane as a byproduct. The formation of Si–Cl bonds that are stronger than the starting M‐Cl bonds acts as a driving force for the reaction. The potential of this strategy is illustrated through the preparation of ruthenium phosphide NPs using [RuCl2(cymene)] and tris(trimethylsilyl)phosphine at 35 °C. Characterization with a combination of techniques including electron microscopy (EM), X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), and solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, evidences the formation of small (diameter of 1.3 nm) and amorphous NPs with an overall Ru50P50 composition. Interestingly, these NPs can be easily immobilized on functional support materials, which is of great interest for potential applications in catalysis and electrocatalysis. Mo50P50 and Co50P50 NPs can also be synthesized following the same strategy. This approach is simple and versatile and paves the way toward the preparation of a wide range of transition metal phosphide nanoparticles under mild reaction conditions.