bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autoimmune bullous dermatoses in cancer patients treated by immunotherapy: a literature review and Italian multicentric experience
Authors: Merli Martina , Accorinti Martina , Romagnuolo Maurizio , Marzano Angelo , Di Zenzo Giovanni , Moro Francesco , Antiga Emiliano , Maglie Roberto , Cozzani Emanuele , Parodi Aurora , Gasparini Giulia , Sollena Pietro , De Simone Clara , Caproni Marzia , Pisano Luigi , Fattore Davide , Balestri Riccardo , Sena Paolo , Vezzoli Pamela , Teoli Miriam , Ardigò Marco , Vassallo Camilla , Michelerio Andrea , Satta Rosanna Rita , Dika Emi , Melotti Barbara , Ribero Simone , Quaglino Pietro
Published: July 2023

Cutaneous immune-related adverse events are frequently associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) administration in cancer patients. In fact, these monoclonal antibodies bind the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 and programmed cell death-1/ligand 1 leading to a non-specific activation of the immune system against both tumoral cells and self-antigens. The skin is the most frequently affected organ system appearing involved especially by inflammatory manifestations such as maculopapular, lichenoid, psoriatic, and eczematous eruptions. Although less common, ICI-induced autoimmune blistering diseases have also been reported, with an estimated overall incidence of less than 5%. Bullous pemphigoid-like eruption is the predominant phenotype, while lichen planus pemphigoides, pemphigus vulgaris, and mucous membrane pemphigoid have been described anecdotally. Overall, they have a wide range of clinical presentations and often overlap with each other leading to a delayed diagnosis. Achieving adequate control of skin toxicity in these cases often requires immunosuppressive systemic therapies and/or interruption of ICI treatment, presenting a therapeutic challenge in the context of cancer management. In this study, we present a case series from Italy based on a multicenter, retrospective, observational study, which included 45 patients treated with ICIs who developed ICI-induced bullous pemphigoid. In addition, we performed a comprehensive review to identify the cases reported in the literature on ICI-induced autoimmune bullous diseases. Several theories seeking their underlying pathogenesis have been reported and this work aims to better understand what is known so far on this issue.
FGF/FGFR1 system in paired breast tumor-adjacent and tumor tissues, associations with mammographic breast density and tumor characteristics
Authors: Boraka Öykü , Klintman Marie , Vallon-Christersson Johan , Zackrisson Sophia , Hall Per , Borgquist Signe , Rosendahl Ann H.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Mammographic breast density (MBD) is an established breast cancer risk factor, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be deciphered. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) amplification is associated with breast cancer development and aberrant FGF signaling found in the biological processes related to both high mammographic density and breast cancer microenvironment. The aim of this study was to investigate the FGF/FGFR1 expression in-between paired tumor-adjacent and tumor tissues from the same patient, and its associations with MBD and tumor characteristics.

Methods

FGFR1 expression in paired tissues from 426 breast cancer patients participating in the Karolinska Mammography Project for Risk Prediction of Breast Cancer (KARMA) cohort study was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. FGF ligand expression was obtained from RNA-sequencing data for 327 of the included patients.

Results

FGFR1 levels were differently expressed in tumor-adjacent and tumor tissues, with increased FGFR1 levels detected in 58% of the tumors. High FGFR1 expression in tumor tissues was associated with less favorable tumor characteristics; high histological grade (OR=1.86, 95% CI 1.00–3.44), high Ki67 proliferative index (OR=2.18, 95% CI 1.18–4.02) as well as tumors of Luminal B-like subtype (OR=2.56, 95%CI 1.29–5.06). While no clear association between FGFR1 expression and MBD was found, FGF ligand (FGF1, FGF11, FGF18) expression was positively correlated with MBD.

Discussion

Taken together, these findings support a role of the FGF/FGFR1 system in early breast cancer which warrants further investigation in the MBD–breast cancer context.
Harnessing genome-wide genetic diversity, population structure and linkage disequilibrium in Ethiopian durum wheat gene pool
Authors: Mulugeta Behailu , Ortiz Rodomiro , Geleta Mulatu , Hailesilassie Teklehaimanot , Hammenhag Cecilia , Hailu Faris , Tesfaye Kassahun
Published: July 2023

Yanyang Liu, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences (HNAAS), China; Landraces are an important genetic source for transferring valuable novel genes and alleles required to enhance genetic variation. Therefore, information on the gene pool’s genetic diversity and population structure is essential for the conservation and sustainable use of durum wheat genetic resources. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess genetic diversity, population structure, and linkage disequilibrium, as well as to identify regions with selection signature. Five hundred (500) individuals representing 46 landraces, along with 28 cultivars were evaluated using the Illumina Infinium 25K wheat SNP array, resulting in 8,178 SNPs for further analysis. Gene diversity (GD) and the polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0.13–0.50 and 0.12–0.38, with mean GD and PIC values of 0.34 and 0.27, respectively. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) revealed 353,600 pairs of significant SNPs at a cut-off (r2 > 0.20, P < 0.01), with an average r2 of 0.21 for marker pairs. The nucleotide diversity (π) and Tajima’s D (TD) per chromosome for the populations ranged from 0.29–0.36 and 3.46–5.06, respectively, with genome level, mean π values of 0.33 and TD values of 4.43. Genomic scan using the Fst outlier test revealed 85 loci under selection signatures, with 65 loci under balancing selection and 17 under directional selection. Putative candidate genes co-localized with regions exhibiting strong selection signatures were associated with grain yield, plant height, host plant resistance to pathogens, heading date, grain quality, and phenolic content. The Bayesian Model (STRUCTURE) and distance-based (principal coordinate analysis, PCoA, and unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean, UPGMA) methods grouped the genotypes into five subpopulations, where landraces from geographically non-adjoining environments were clustered in the same cluster. This research provides further insights into population structure and genetic relationships in a diverse set of durum wheat germplasm, which could be further used in wheat breeding programs to address production challenges sustainably.
Association between media exposure and behavioral problems among preschool children
Authors: Zoromba Mohamed A. , Abdelgawad Doaa , Hashem Sahar , El-Gazar Heba , Abd El Aziz Magda Ahmed
Published: July 2023

Background

The prevalence of behavioral problems among preschool children is remarkably increasing in the clinical setting.

Aim

The current study aimed to investigate the association between media exposure and behavioral problems among preschool children.

Methods

This survey study recruited 560 children from 10 nurseries selected randomly, located in El-Mansoura, Egypt. Tools included socio-demographic characteristics the Media Exposure Questionnaire and the Conners Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scales (CBRS-48).

Results

The participants were exposed to media for an average of 105.84 min per day and displayed moderate levels in all subscales of CBRS-48. The duration of media exposure was significantly correlated to the hyperactivity index, learning problems, hyperactivity/impulsivity, conduct problem, anxiety, and psychosomatic problems (r = 0.372, 0.356, 0.323, 0.306, 0.298, 0.291, and 0.255, respectively).

Conclusion

The duration of media exposure was significantly correlated to the subscales of CBRS-48.

Implication for nursing practice

Preschool children should be engaged in concrete activities and social interactions that may lessen negative media effects such as hyperactivity, learning problems, hyperactivity/impulsivity, conduct problem, anxiety, and psychosomatic problems.
Association of self-efficacy and mental toughness with sport performance in Brazilian futsal athletes
Authors: Aizava Paulo Vitor Suto , Codonhato Renan , Fiorese Lenamar
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Self-efficacy is considered a component of mental toughness, but there are few studies investigating the relationship of sport self-efficacy with mental toughness in performance athletes, especially in team sports.

Objective

The objective was to examine the impact of sport self-efficacy mediated by mental toughness on the sport performance of Brazilian futsal athletes.

Methods

The sample was composed of five adult male teams participating in the National Futsal League 2020, totaling 77 athletes. As instruments, we used: athlete identification sheet, Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale in Sports (PSES), Mental Toughness Index (MTI) questionnaire and the performance data from the National Futsal League 2020 (NFL). The data were analyzed using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Mann–Whitney “U” test, Spearman’s correlation, network analysis (LASSO), with the indicators of centrality: strength, proximity and degree of intermediation (p < 0.05).

Results

The results showed that the investigated sample presented high levels of Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale in Sports (PSES) (Md = 4.66) and mental toughness (MT) (Md = 6.44). PSES presented a positive relationship with the number of wins, and negative relationships with the number of red cards and wrong passes (r= −0.08). MT indirectly influenced these variables through its connection with PSES (r= 0.30). The best ranked teams presented higher amounts of goals for, fouls, shots on goal, tackles, assists, and wins. The time of practice revealed an inverse relationship with the number of defeats, while age was positively related to the number of wrong passes (r = 0.09). The centrality indicators showed that the number of games stood out as the most central variable in the network, due to its degree of strength, proximity and intermediation. Moreover, the high degree of proximity and intermediation of the tackles made presented a connection with the number of assists (γ = 0.25;n = 77).

Conclusion

We can conclude that sport self-efficacy and mental toughness are intervening factors in the sport performance of Brazilian futsal athletes.
Using the VERA-2R, professional and organisational aspects
Authors: Duits Nils , Overdulve Carina , Kempes Maaike
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Violent extremism risk assessments of individuals suspected or convicted of terrorism are relevant for legal decisions, in prison and probation settings, and in inter-professional risk collaboration. These risk assessment reports by professionals should be applicable to and usable for the different judicial contexts. Informal and formal clinical practice evaluations, in the form of practitioners feedback and standardised evaluation of professional violent extremism risk reports are needed to gain insight in the use and quality of violent extremism risk assessments.

Methods

In this study we examined how forensic professionals from three different countries (Sweden, Belgium and the Netherlands) use the VERA-2R in different judicial contexts. We also investigated which organizational aspects are important for the use of the VERA-2R. We focused on the perspective of the forensic professionals and their judicial organisations. We did a standardised survey among 86 VERA-2R trained professionals and a standardised interview with 20 executives and managers of organizations working with the VERA-2R.

Results

This study showed that professionals find the VERA-2R useful for structuring information and speaking a common risk language. However, using the VERA-2R comes with a variety of challenges, both on the professional and organisational level. VERA-2R trained professionals had few opportunities to use the instrument and when they did, they were not always offered regular supervision, intervision and booster training. Also, organisational issues in collaboration between judicial partner organisations and the lack of risk transfer information to professionals came to light.

Discussion

More research on the topic of risk transfer is needed. Policy implications are advised, for example the development of booster trainings, more organizational support, regulations on re-assessments, providing expertise and knowledge to indirect stakeholders and clear writing guidelines.
Effects of sex, age, and body mass index on serum bicarbonate
Authors: Duan Daisy , Perin Jamie , Osman Adam , Sgambati Francis , Kim Lenise J. , Pham Luu V. , Polotsky Vsevolod Y. , Jun Jonathan C.
Published: July 2023

Rationale

Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is often underdiagnosed, with significant morbidity and mortality. Bicarbonate, as a surrogate of arterial carbon dioxide, has been proposed as a screening tool for OHS. Understanding the predictors of serum bicarbonate could provide insights into risk factors for OHS. We hypothesized that the bicarbonate levels would increase with an increase in body mass index (BMI), since the prevalence of OHS increases with obesity.

Methods

We used the TriNetX Research Network, an electronic health record database with de-identified clinical data from participating healthcare organizations across the United States, to identify 93,320 adults without pulmonary or advanced renal diseases who had serum bicarbonate and BMI measurements within 6 months of each other between 2017 and 2022. We used linear regression analysis to examine the associations between bicarbonate and BMI, age, and their interactions for the entire cohort and stratified by sex. We also applied a non-linear machine learning algorithm (XGBoost) to examine the relative importance of age, BMI, sex, race/ethnicity, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) status on bicarbonate.

Results

This cohort population was 56% women and 72% white and 80% non-Hispanic individuals, with an average (SD) age of 49.4 (17.9) years and a BMI of 29.1 (6.1) kg/m2. The mean bicarbonate was 24.8 (2.8) mmol/L, with higher levels in men (mean 25.2 mmol/L) than in women (mean 24.4 mmol/L). We found a small negative association between bicarbonate and BMI, with an expected change of −0.03 mmol/L in bicarbonate for each 1 kg/m2 increase in BMI (p < 0.001), in the entire cohort and both sexes. We found sex differences in the bicarbonate trajectory with age, with women exhibiting lower bicarbonate values than men until age 50, after which the bicarbonate levels were modestly higher. The non-linear machine learning algorithm similarly revealed that age and sex played larger roles in determining bicarbonate levels than the BMI or OSA status.

Conclusion

Contrary to our hypothesis, BMI is not associated with elevated bicarbonate levels, and age modifies the impact of sex on bicarbonate.
Process Optimization of Biodiesel from Used Cooking Oil in a Microwave Reactor: A Case of Machine Learning and Box–Behnken Design
Authors: Buasri Achanai , Sirikoom Phensuda , Pattane Sirinan , Buachum Orapharn , Loryuenyong Vorrada
Published: July 2023

In the present investigation, response surface methodology (RSM) and machine learning (ML) are applied to the biodiesel production process via acid-catalyzed transesterification and esterification of triglyceride (TG). In order to optimize the production of biodiesel from used cooking oil (UCO) in a microwave reactor, these models are also compared. During the process, Box–Behnken design (BBD) and an artificial neural network (ANN) were used to evaluate the effect of the catalyst content (3.0–7.0 wt.%), methanol/UCO mole ratio (12:1–18:1), and irradiation time (5.0–9.0 min). The process conditions were adjusted and developed to predict the highest biodiesel yield using BBD with the RSM approach and an ANN model. With optimal process parameters of 4.94 wt.% catalyst content, 16.76:1 methanol/UCO mole ratio, and 8.13 min of irradiation time, a yield of approximately 98.62% was discovered. The coefficient of determination (R2) for the BBD model was found to be 0.9988, and the correlation coefficient (R) for the ANN model was found to be 0.9994. According to the findings, applying RSM and ANN models is advantageous when optimizing the biodiesel manufacturing process as well as making predictions about it. This renewable and environmentally friendly process has the potential to provide a sustainable route for the synthesis of high-quality biodiesel from waste oil with a low cost and high acid value.
A Bird’s-Eye View of Colonias Hosting Forgotten Americans and Their Community Resilience in the Rio Grande Valley
Authors: Kyne Dean
Published: July 2023

Colonia communities, which host forgotten Americans, lack essential services such as portable water, adequate wastewater and solid waste disposal, adequate drainage, and adequate paved roads. The aim of this study is to investigate five key aspects of the colonias in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), which include the total count of colonias in the valley, their susceptibility to public health hazards, flooding occurrences, the transformations that have occurred over the past two decades, and community resilience. This research utilizes two datasets, namely the Colonia Database from the Texas Secretary of State and the community resiliency estimates from the Census Bureau. Geographical information systems (GIS) methods are employed to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of colonia communities. The principal results reveal that colonia communities host 14% of the RGV’s total 1.37 million population. About half of the total colonia population resides in Hidalgo County, followed by Starr, Cameron, and Willacy counties. About 87% of the total colonia communities exist in census tracts characterized by low or very low community resiliency. Furthermore, 26% of the total colonia communities experiencing flooding after rainfall are in tracts with low or very low community resiliency. This study provides the major conclusion that while there have been slight improvements in the colonias’ susceptibility to public health risks within the past two decades, there still remains significant developmental work. Without tackling these challenges, achieving meaningful progress in community resilience becomes a daunting task. Applying an environmental justice lens to the issues faced by colonia communities helps shed light on the systemic inequalities and injustices they experience.
Topology Optimization of a Femoral Stem in Titanium and Carbon to Reduce Stress Shielding with the FEM Method
Authors: Ceddia Mario , Trentadue Bartolomeo , De Giosa Giuseppe , Solarino Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

Arthroplasty is commonly performed to treat advanced osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint conditions; however, it can also be considered for young patients with severe joint damage that significantly limits their functionality and quality of life. Young patients are still at risk of aseptic mobilization and bone resorption due to the phenomenon of stress shielding that causes an uneven distribution of tensions along the femoral contact surface prosthesis. This phenomenon can be limited by choosing the material of the prosthesis appropriately or by varying its stiffness, making sure that its mechanical behavior simulates that of the femur as much as possible. The aim of this study is to evaluate the mechanical strength of a prosthesis optimized both in shape and material and compare the results with a standard titanium prosthesis. Methods: Through three-dimensional modeling and the use of finite element method (FEM) software such as ANSYS, the mechanical behavior of traditional prosthesis and prosthesis optimized topologically respecting the ASTM F2996-13 standard. Results: With topological optimization, there is a stress reduction from 987 MPa to 810 MPa with a mass reduction of 30%. When carbon fiber is used, it is possible to further reduce stress to 509 MPa. Conclusions: The reduction in stress on the femoral stem allows an optimal distribution of the load on the cortical bone, thus decreasing the problem of stress shielding.
Brain Injury: Response to Injury Wound-Healing Mechanisms and Enlarged Perivascular Spaces in Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hayden Melvin R.
Published: July 2023

Embryonic genetic mechanisms are present in the brain and ready to be placed into action upon cellular injury, termed the response to injury wound-healing (RTIWH) mechanism. When injured, regional brain endothelial cells initially undergo activation and dysfunction with initiation of hemostasis, inflammation (peripheral leukocytes, innate microglia, and perivascular macrophage cells), proliferation (astrogliosis), remodeling, repair, and resolution phases if the injurious stimuli are removed. In conditions wherein the injurious stimuli are chronic, as occurs in obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, this process does not undergo resolution and there is persistent RTIWH with remodeling. Indeed, the brain is unique, in that it utilizes its neuroglia: the microglia cell, along with peripheral inflammatory cells and its astroglia, instead of peripheral scar-forming fibrocytes/fibroblasts. The brain undergoes astrogliosis to form a gliosis scar instead of a fibrosis scar to protect the surrounding neuropil from regional parenchymal injury. One of the unique and evolving remodeling changes in the brain is the development of enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVSs), which is the focus of this brief review. EPVSs are important since they serve as a biomarker for cerebral small vessel disease and also represent an impairment of the effluxing glymphatic system that is important for the clearance of metabolic waste from the interstitial fluid to the cerebrospinal fluid, and disposal. Therefore, it is important to better understand how the RTIWH mechanism is involved in the development of EPVSs that are closely associated with and important to the development of premature and age-related cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases with impaired cognition.
Identification and Synthesis of Selected In Vitro Generated Metabolites of the Novel Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM) 2f
Authors: Möller Tristan , Wen Hui-Chung , Naumann Nana , Krug Oliver , Thevis Mario
Published: July 2023

Among anabolic agents, selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) represent a new class of potential drugs that can exhibit anabolic effects on muscle and bone with reduced side effects due to a tissue-selective mode of action. Besides possible medical applications, SARMs are used as performance-enhancing agents in sports. Therefore, they are prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in and out of competition. Since their inclusion into the WADA Prohibited List in 2008, there has been an increase in not only the number of adverse analytical findings, but also the total number of SARMs, making continuous research into SARMs an ongoing topic in the field of doping controls. 4-((2R,3R)-2-Ethyl-3-hydroxy-5-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)-2-(trifluoromethyl)benzonitrile (SARM 2f) is a novel SARM candidate and is therefore of particular interest for sports drug testing. This study describes the synthesis of SARM 2f using a multi-step approach, followed by full characterization using liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). To provide the first insights into its biotransformation in humans, SARM 2f was metabolized using human liver microsomes and the microsomal S9 fraction. A total of seven metabolites, including phase I and phase II metabolites, were found, of which three metabolites were chemically synthesized in order to confirm their structure. Those can be employed in testing procedures for routine doping controls, further improving anti-doping efforts.
Soil Organic Matter Composition and pH as Factors Affecting Retention of Carbaryl, Carbofuran and Metolachlor in Soil
Authors: Ćwieląg-Piasecka Irmina
Published: July 2023

The majority of studies concerning the environmental behavior of hydrophobic pollutants in soil consider soil organic matter (SOM) content as a main factor influencing chemical retention, whereas the composition of SOM and its individual fraction share are often neglected. In the present paper, carbaryl, carbofuran and metolachlor retention by loamy sand and loam topsoil materials is compared and referred to humic acids (CHA) and the residual carbon (CR) content of SOM. Additionally, the sorption-desorption behavior of agrochemicals in soils was tested at a pH of three to seven. Calculated isothermal parameters point to favorable, spontaneous and physical pesticide sorption. Groundwater ubiquity score (GUS) indexes confirmed the low leaching ability of metolachlor on soils and moderate of carbofuran. The high affinity of carbaryl to CR may explain its pronounced sorption in loam soil and the lowest percolation potential. Carbofuran retention in soils was associated with montmorillonite (Mt) and CR fractions. Meanwhile, metolachlor uptake was related to humic acid and Mt content of the soils. Lower pH enhanced retention of the agrochemicals, except for carbaryl sorption in sandy loam soil. Results of this study highlight that SOM composition and mutual share of individual organic carbon fractions alongside pH may play a crucial role in predicting non-ionic pesticide behavior in soil.
Electrochemical Iodination through the In Situ Generation of Iodinating Agents: A Promising Green Approach
Authors: Sorti Letizia , Vitulano Fiammetta , Cappellini Elia , Uggeri Fulvio , Morelli Carlo Francesco , Sello Guido , Minguzzi Alessandro , Vertova Alberto
Published: July 2023

The synthesis of iodinated compounds using cheap, simple, and green strategies is of fundamental importance. Iodination reactions are mainly used to synthesize useful intermediates, especially in the pharmaceutical field, where they are employed for the production of contrast media or of iodinated active pharmaceutical ingredients. Traditional synthetic methods suffer from the use of erosive, toxic, or hazardous reactants. Approaches which involve the use of molecular iodine as an iodinating agent require the addition of an oxidizing agent, which is often difficult to handle. Electrochemistry can offer a valid and green alternative by avoiding the addition of such oxidizing agents, transforming the iodine source in the active species through the use of electrons as the main reactants. Herein, we report the electrochemical iodination with the generation of iodinating species in situ in water by using iodides as the source of iodine atoms. First of all, the electrochemical behavior of iodide and iodine in water on carbonaceous anodes was studied and, after selecting the suitable potential, in situ electrochemical iodination was successfully applied to 5-hydroxyisophthalic acid and 5-sulfosalicylic acid, comparing the iodinating power of I2 and iodonium species.
Controlled Synthesis and Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Activity of BiOBr Particles for Ultrafast Degradation of Pollutants
Authors: Ji Xiaohui , Li Chen , Liu Junhai , Zhang Tianlei , Yang Yue , Yu Ruijin , Luo Xuegang
Published: July 2023

For the purpose of regulating the visible-light-driven photocatalytic properties of photocatalysts, we selected BiOBr as the research target and various routes were used. Herein, via the use of a hydrothermal method with various solvents, BiOBr particles with controllable morphology and photocatalytic activities are obtained. In particular, through changing the volume ratio of ethylene glycol (EG) to ethanol (EtOH), BiOBr compounds possess microspheres, in which samples synthesized by using EG:EtOH = 1:2 have the highest photocatalytic activity, and can completely decompose RhB under visible light irradiation within 14 min. Furthermore, we also used different volume ratios of EG and H2O reaction solvents to prepare BiOBr particles so as to further improve its pollutant removal ability. When the volume ratio of EG to H2O is 1:1, the synthesized BiOBr particles have the best photocatalytic activity, and RhB can be degraded in only 10 min upon visible light irradiation. Aside from the reaction solvent, the impact of sintering temperature on the photocatalytic properties of BiOBr particles is also explored, where its pollutant removal capacities are restrained due to the reduced specific surface area. Additionally, the visible-light-triggered photocatalytic mechanism of BiOBr particles is determined by h+, ·OH and ·O2− active species.
Inhibition Mechanism of Chitooligosaccharide-Polyphenol Conjugates toward Polyphenoloxidase from Shrimp Cephalothorax
Authors: Mittal Ajay , Singh Avtar , Zhang Bin , Zhao Qiancheng , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: July 2023

Crustaceans are perishable with a short shelf-life. They are prone to deterioration after capture, particularly during handling, processing, and storage due to melanosis caused by polyphenoloxidase (PPO). Therefore, inhibitory effects of chitooligosaccharide (CHOS) in comparison with CHOS-catechin (CHOS-CAT), CHOS-epigallocatechin gallate (CHOS-EGCG), and CHOS-gallic acid (CHOS-GAL) conjugates on Pacific white shrimp cephalothorax PPO were studied. IC50 of CHOS-CAT (0.32 mg/mL) toward PPO was less than those of all conjugates tested (p < 0.05). CHOS-CAT exhibited the mixed-type inhibition. Kic (0.58 mg/mL) and Kiu (0.02 mg/mL) of CHOS-CAT were lower than those of other conjugates (p < 0.05). CHOS-CAT showed static fluorescence-quenching, suggesting a change in micro-environment around the active site of PPO. Moreover, CHOS-CAT was linked with various amino acid residues, including Tyr208 or Tyr209 of proPPO via van der Waals, hydrophobic interaction, and hydrogen bonding as elucidated by the molecular docking of proPPO. Although CHOS-CAT had the highest PPO inhibitory activity, it showed a lower binding energy (−8.5 kcal/mol) than other samples, except for CHOS-EGCG (−10.2 kcal/mol). Therefore, CHOS-CAT could act as an anti-melanosis agent in shrimp and other crustaceans to prevent undesirable discoloration associated with quality losses.
Exogenous Selenium Improves Physio-Biochemical and Performance of Drought-Stressed Phaseolus vulgaris Seeded in Saline Soil
Authors: Semida Wael M. , Abd El-Mageed Taia A. , Gyushi Mohammed A. H. , Abd El-Mageed Shimaa A. , Rady Mostafa M. , Abdelkhalik Abdelsattar , Merah Othmane , Sabagh Ayman El , El-Metwally Ibrahim M. , Sadak Mervat Sh. , Abdelhamid Magdi T.
Published: July 2023

Water and salt stresses are among the most important global problems that limit the growth and production of several crops. The current study aims at the possibility of mitigating the effect of deficit irrigation of common bean plants growing in saline lands by foliar spraying with selenium via the assessment of growth, productivity, physiological, and biochemical measurements. In our study, two field-based trials were conducted in 2017 and 2018 to examine the influence of three selenium (Se) concentrations (0 (Se0), 25 (Se25), and 50 mg L−1 (Se50)) on common bean plants grown under full irrigation (I100 = 100% of the crop evapotranspiration; ETc) and deficit irrigation (I80 = 80% of ETc, and I60 = 60% of ETc). Bean plants exposed to water stress led to a notable reduction in growth, yield, water productivity (WP), water status, SPAD value, and chlorophyll a fluorescence features (Fv/Fm and PI). However, foliar spraying of selenium at 25 or 50 mg L−1 on stressed bean plants attenuated the harmful effects of water stress. The findings suggest that foliage application of 25 or 50 mg L−1 selenium to common bean plants grown under I80 resulted in a higher membrane stability index, relative water content, SPAD chlorophyll index, and better efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm, and PI). Water deficit at 20% increased the WP by 17%; however, supplementation of 25 or 50 mg L−1 selenium mediated further increases in WP up to 26%. Exogenous application of selenium (25 mg L−1 or 50 mg L−1) to water-stressed bean plants elevated the plant defense system component, given that it increased the free proline, ascorbic acid, and glutathione levels, as well as antioxidant enzymes (SOD, APX, GPX, and CAT). It was concluded that the application of higher levels (25 or/and 50 mg L−1) of Se improves plant water status as well as the growth and yield of common beans cultivated in saline soil.
Varietal Differences of Yield, Morphological, and Biochemical Parameters of Allium cepa L. under Precipitation Excess in Different Phenological Phases
Authors: Golubkina Nadezhda , Romanova Olga , Romanov Valery , Krivenkov Leonid , Shevchenko Tatiana , Murariu Otilia Cristina , Vecchietti Lorenzo , Hamburda Silvia Brindusa , Caruso Gianluca
Published: July 2023

Flooding is an important factor, decreasing Allium cepa bulb yield and quality. A comparison, in terms of biometrical and biochemical parameters, of five Allium cepa cultivars, grown at two different locations, characterized by contrasting conditions of water availability, i.e., precipitation excess at the end (A) or at the beginning (B) of plant growth, revealed a significant decrease in bulb weight, height, and diameter, and an increase in oxidative stress parameters, such as total antioxidant activity and polyphenol content, monosaccharides, proline, malonic dialdehyde in the condition of excessive soil humidity at the end of the vegetation period (A). Among the five cultivars studied (Zolotnichok, Zolotie cupola, Black prince, Globus, and Myachkovsky), the lowest variations of the above parameters under precipitation excess at cycle end or beginning were recorded in Zolotnichok and Zolotie cupola, which was in accordance with their high adaptability. Cultivar Myachkovsky showed the highest differences of the parameters examined between A and B conditions. Outer scale biochemical parameters demonstrated the highest stability in both regions. The participation of proline, monosaccharides, total polyphenols, and total antioxidant activity in plant defense against hypoxia, caused by waterlogging, was proved by high correlation coefficients between inner scale parameters (‘r’ from +0.714 to +0.920) and the latter with bulb yield (‘r’ from −0.745 to −0.924). High adaptability cultivars (Zolotie cupola, Zolotnichok, Black prince) showed significantly lower MDA inner/outer scales ratio and lipids outer/inner scales ratio compared to cultivars with moderate adaptability in (B) conditions. The results provide important information regarding biochemical peculiarities of Allium cepa in diverse soil humidity, which should be considered in future breeding activities of onion genotypes, characterized by high adaptability to different water excess conditions.
Efficacy and Safety of a Natural Supplement Containing Serenoa Repens, Solanum Lycopersicum, Lycopene, and Bromelain in Reducing Symptoms of Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A Prospective Cohort Study in 250 Patients
Authors: Lambertini Luca , Sandulli Alessandro , Salamone Vincenzo , Bacchiani Mara , Giudici Sofia , Massaro Eleana , Cadenar Anna , Mariottini Riccardo , Coco Simone , Bardina Laia , Ciaralli Elena , Saladino Marco , Romano Andrea , Valastro Francesca , Grosso Antonio Andrea , Di Maida Fabrizio , Siena Giampaolo , Scelzi Sabino , Mari Andrea
Published: July 2023

Background: Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain syndrome NIH-class III is a widespread condition affecting men universally, with existing treatments showing limited success. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a natural supplement, composed of Serenoa repens, Solanum lycopersicum, lycopene, and bromelain, in managing symptoms of this condition among a substantial patient group. Methods: In this prospective study, 245 patients diagnosed with Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain syndrome NIH-class III were treated with the aforementioned supplement, alongside lifestyle alterations, such as refraining from spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and cycling, for a duration of three months. Patients’ progress was assessed at one and three months using the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI), the International Prostate Symptom Index (IPSS), quality of life (QoL) scores, and changes in total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. Results: The supplement was well received with no serious adverse events reported. Significant improvements were observed in NIH-CPSI scores, IPSS, QoL scores, and a substantial decrease in total PSA levels at three months compared to baseline, with a positive trend noted from one-month to three-month evaluations. This was consistent in either patients with predominantly voiding or storage urinary symptoms. Conclusions: Our results suggest that this natural supplement in conjunction with lifestyle changes could offer a safe and effective alternative treatment for patients suffering from Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain syndrome NIH-class III. However, these findings require validation through further large-scale randomized controlled trials.
Sarcoma Predisposition in Dogs with a Comparative View to Human Orthologous Disease
Authors: Arendt Maja L. , Dobson Jane M.
Published: July 2023

Sarcomas are malignant tumors arising from the embryonic mesodermal cell lineage. This group of cancers covers a heterogenous set of solid tumors arising from soft tissues or bone. Many features such as histology, biological behavior and molecular characteristics are shared between sarcomas in humans and dogs, suggesting that human sarcoma research can be informative for canine disease, and that dogs with sarcomas can serve as relevant translational cancer models, to aid in the understanding of human disease and cancer biology. In the present paper, risk factors for the development of sarcoma in dogs are reviewed, with a particular focus on recent advances in clinical genetics, and on the identification of simple and complex genetic risk factors with a comparison with what has been found in human orthologous disease.
The quality of prison primary care: cross-sectional analyses of prison healthcare data in Northern England
Authors: McLintock Kate , Foy Robbie , Canvin Krysia , Bellass Sue , Hearty Pip , Wright Nat , Cunningham Marie , Seanor Nicola , Sheard Laura , Farragher Tracey
Published: July 2023

Background

Prisoners have considerable health needs, are relatively high users of health care and often die prematurely. Prison healthcare research has typically focused on specific problems such as substance misuse, but ‘routine’ primary care has received less attention. Strong primary care systems are associated with better population outcomes. Identifying inappropriate variations in care will inform strategies to close gaps in health care and reduce preventable deaths.

Aim

To explore variations in the quality of primary care for prisoners.

Method

We assessed achievement against 30 quality indicators examining different aspects of care in 13 prisons. We conducted repeated cross-sectional analyses of routinely recorded data from electronic health records across 2017–2020. Multi-level logistic regression models explored associations between indicator achievement and prison and prisoner characteristics.

Results

We found marked variations in achievement between different indicators and different prisons. Achievement ranged from 0·2% of people with epilepsy coded as seizure-free, to 93·8% of people with diabetes having blood pressure checks, in the preceding year. Achievement improved over three years for 11 indicators and worsened for six, including declining antipsychotic monitoring and rising opioid prescribing. Achievement varied between prisons, from 1·93-fold for prescribing of gabapentinoids with no coded diagnosis of neuropathic pain (Odds Ratio (OR) range 0·67 to 1·29) to 21,610-fold for medicine reconciliation (OR range 0·45 to 9724·5). Shorter lengths of stay were frequently associated with lower achievement. Some associations between ethnicity and achievement were identified.

Conclusion

We found substantial scope for improvement and marked variations in quality which were largely unaltered after adjustment for prison and prisoner characteristics.
Dive Into the Unknown: Embracing Uncertainty to Advance Aquatic Remote Sensing
Authors: Werther Mortimer , Burggraaff Olivier
Published: July 2023

Uncertainty is an inherent aspect of aquatic remote sensing, originating from sources such as sensor noise, atmospheric variability, and human error. Although many studies have advanced the understanding of uncertainty, it is still not incorporated routinely into aquatic remote sensing research. Neglecting uncertainty can lead to misinterpretations of results, missed opportunities for innovative research, and a limited understanding of complex aquatic systems. In this article, we demonstrate how working with uncertainty can advance remote sensing through three examples: validation and match-up analysis, targeted improvement of data products, and decision-making based on information acquired through remote sensing. We advocate for a change of perspective: the uncertainty inherent in aquatic remote sensing should be embraced, rather than viewed as a limitation. Focusing on uncertainty not only leads to more accurate and reliable results but also paves the way for innovation through novel insights, product improvements, and more informed decision-making in the management and preservation of aquatic ecosystems.
THE GENETIC IMPROVEMENT OF PRAIRIE GRASS (Bromus catharticus Vahl) IN ARGENTINA: SYNTHESIS OF ACHIEVEMENTS AND ADVANCES
Authors: Martínez E.S. , Rimieri P.
Published: July 2023

The prairie grass (Bromus catharticus Vahl) is the annual/biennial native forage grass of temperate climates of most importance and diffusion in Argentina. Several authors have studied the phenotypic variability in morphophysiological characters in cultivars and native populations of prairie grass. The first commercial cultivars were heterogeneous populations that were considered the best adapted in the temperate region of Argentina. Genetic, agronomic and molecular characterization of the selection base populations and of the germplasm conserved in the active bank of INTA Pergamino, contributed to knowing and conserving the available genetic diversity and, at the same time, provided usable genetic variability in breeding. The most representative cultivars considered in this work were Pergamino Martín Fierro MAG; Fierro Plus INTA, Bar INTA 200, Rosalía INTA and INTA Calvu, in which technological packages associated with the utilization in animal production were developed.

Key words: prairie grass, cultivars, germplasm, plant breeding
HISTORY AND PROSPECTS OF FODDER CORN BREEDING IN ARGENTINA
Authors: Rimieri P.
Published: July 2023

Corn is used to massively produce food for humans and domestic animals with grains of various taxonomic entities or races. For domestic ruminants, the whole plant is also used as forage. In Argentina, both corn grain and whole-plant silage are used for beef and dairy cattle production. This paper aimed to develop the history and perspectives of corn grown for grain and silage, focusing on plant breeding. The importance of corn fodder in its two variants (grain and whole-plant silage) has varied over time. We emphasize herein the importance of the specific genetic breeding of corn used for whole-plant silage to achieve higher yield potential and nutritional value than grain hybrids. The four population genetic structures used over time as cultivars, which determined the evolution of the technological process of selection and breeding, were analyzed. Based on the research carried out, seed companies have incorporated our protocols into their development and breeding programs. The contribution of selection and breeding in Argentina was effective in transforming the corn plant into ruminant feed, and this will increase with the development of specific silage hybrids.

Key words: cultivars, corn fodder, plant breeding
Autonomisation de l’assistance par tierce personne temporaire
Authors: Augier-Francia Émeline
Published: July 2023

L’assistance par tierce personne de la victime directe doit pouvoir être indemnisée, en toute autonomie, à titre temporaire, dès lors que la victime était dans l’impossibilité de vivre seule pendant une période ante-consolidation.
An innovative approach to improving writing skills in higher education
Authors: Bernal Lloréns Mercedes , Puigcerver Peñalver Mª Carmen , Sánchez-Ballesta Juan Pedro
Published: July 2023

In this paper we introduce an innovation activity which consists of a writing competition in a Faculty of Economics and Business at a large university in Spain. This activity allows us to assess the deficiencies that higher education students have in writing reports and to encourage students and staff to be aware of the relevance of written communication for their personal lives and their professional careers. This experience showed us that those students that enrolled in the competition had good marks in a multiple-choice exam with questions about orthography, grammar, punctuation and vocabulary but they found more difficulties in composing their own texts. This suggests that despite the years employed in learning the Spanish language prior to embarking on their higher education courses, the students do not have enough skills to compose texts at the advanced level that corresponds to professionals in Social Sciences. One implication of these findings is that higher education teachers should highlight the relevance of writing properly to their students and develop activities in those fields in which composition is compulsory.
TECHNOLOGY FOR DISTRIBUTION OF LIQUID FODDER BASED ON A ROD DISPENSER
Authors:   Vologda Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Nikitin Leonid , Nikiforov Vladislav ,   Vologda Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Simonov Gennady ,   Vologda Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Filippova Olga ,   Air force Academy named after Professor N. E Zhukovsky and Y. A. Gagarin
Published: July 2023

Dairy farming is the main responsibility of the agro-industrial complex, which widely uses priority technologies for keeping and servicing animals. To feed the animals of modern farms, productive mechanized equipment for distributing feed is used. The most interesting is the organization of feeding young animals. An emergency method has been developed for the mechanized distribution of liquid feed for calves in loose housing conditions. The limited mobile feeder is designed for use on farms, including keeping in boxes. The device of the liquid feed dispenser consists of a bar and is a conveyor with buckets for feeding fixed on it. The bar moves on rollers with the help of an electric drive, moves and transports buckets to use group cages with calf boxes. The length of the feeding front is 60 meters at one consumption by the operator. The liquid feed dispenser uses a milk pump NMU-6 with a capacity of 6.5 m 3 /h. An outlet valve with an outlet diameter of 20 mm is installed, which ensures the supply of liquid feed to buckets that are stationary. The speed of movement of the distributor rod is 0.07-0.13 m/s. In the event of a rapid dispensing of liquid feed, the feeder can move with a stop-stop to fill the buckets. The developed design of a limited-mobile rod distributor allows the most efficient use of the mechanized distribution of liquid feed to calves in their loose housing. The technology of liquid feed distribution based on a rod spreader reduces labor costs by 50%, eliminates heavy and monotonous work.