bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Erector Spinae Plane and Transversus Abdominis Plane Blocks for Postoperative Analgesia after Elective Caesarean Section
Authors: Eksteen Aidan , Wagner Janine , Kleyenstuber Thomas , Kamerman Peter
Published: October 2023

Background

Peripheral abdominal nerve blocks contribute to multimodal postoperative analgesia that enhances early recovery after caesarean sections. The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is an established technique that offers somatic abdominal analgesia. The erector spinae plane (ESP) block is a novel fascial plane block that may offer additional visceral analgesic effects. This study aimed to compare the postoperative analgesic efficacy of bilateral ultrasound-guided ESP blocks to TAP blocks in women undergoing caesarean sections under spinal anaesthesia.

Methods

Sixty-six ASA grade 1-3 (≥18 years) patients undergoing elective caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia were randomly allocated to receive either ESP blocks at the T9 vertebral level (n=33) or TAP blocks (n=33). The primary outcome measure was 24-hour cumulative morphine consumption. The secondary outcomes included the time taken to perform blocks, numeric rating scale (NRS) pain scores at 6- and 24-hours, effect of pain on activities of daily living (ADLs) and care for the newborn, time to first analgesic request, severity of opioid-related side effects, and patient satisfaction.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in mean (SD) 24-hour cumulative morphine consumption between the ESP blocks and TAP blocks: 27 mg (14) vs 32 mg (15) (p=0.185). ESP blocks took longer to perform: 10.7 minutes (2.2) vs 9.0 minutes (2.5) (p<0.01). There were no significant differences in the other secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

ESP blocks did not significantly reduce postoperative analgesic requirements compared to TAP blocks after caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia. The ESP block did not demonstrate significant additional visceral analgesic effects.

Trial Registration

South African National Clinical Trial Registry (DOH-27-102022-5278), Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR202301645957324)
Clinical validity and utility of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC): a systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Cheng , Douglas Michael P. , Ragavan Meera V. , Phillips Kathryn A. , Jansen Jeroen P.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing has become a promising tool to guide first-line (1L) targeted treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC). This study aims to estimate the clinical validity (CV) and clinical utility (CU) of ctDNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS) for oncogenic driver mutations to inform 1L treatment decisions in aNSCLC through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase to identify randomized control trials or observational studies reporting CV/CU on ctDNA testing in patients with aNSCLC. Meta-analyses were performed using bivariate random-effects models to estimate pooled sensitivity and specificity. Progression-free/overall survival (PFS/OS) was summarized for CU studies.

Results

Eighteen studies were identified: 17 CV only, 2 CU only, and 1 both. Thirteen studies were included for the meta-analysis on multi-gene detection. The overall sensitivity and specificity for ctDNA detection of any mutation were 0.69 (95% CI, 0.63–0.74) and 0.99 (95% CI, 0.97–1.00) respectively. However, sensitivity varied greatly by driver gene, ranging from 0.29 (95% CI, 0.13–0.53) forROS1 to 0.77 (95% CI, 0.63–0.86) forKRAS. Two studies compared PFS with ctDNA versus tissue-based testing followed by 1L targeted therapy found no significant differences. One study reported OS curves on ctDNA-matched and tissue-matched therapies but no hazard ratios were provided.

Conclusion

ctDNA testing demonstrated an overall acceptable diagnostic accuracy in aNSCLC patients, however, sensitivity varied greatly by driver mutation. Further research is needed, especially for uncommon driver mutations, to better understand the CU of ctDNA testing in guiding targeted treatments for aNSCLC.
FTLD targets brain regions expressing recently evolved genes
Authors: Pasquini Lorenzo , Pereira Felipe L. , Seddighi Sahba , Zeng Yi , Wei Yongbin , Illán-Gala Ignacio , Vatsavayai Sarat C. , Friedberg Adit , Lee Alex J. , Brown Jesse A. , Spina Salvatore , Grinberg Lea T. , Sirkis Daniel W. , Bonham Luke W. , Yokoyama Jennifer S. , Boxer Adam L. , Kramer Joel H. , Rosen Howard J. , Humphrey Jack , Gitler Aaron D. , Miller Bruce L. , Pollard Katherine S. , Ward Michael E. , Seeley William W.
Published: October 2023

In frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), pathological protein aggregation is associated with a decline in human-specialized social-emotional and language functions. Most disease protein aggregates contain either TDP-43 (FTLD-TDP) or tau (FTLD-tau). Here, we explored whether FTLD targets brain regions that express genes containing human accelerated regions (HARs), conserved sequences that have undergone positive selection during recent human evolution. To this end, we used structural neuroimaging from patients with FTLD and normative human regional transcriptomic data to identify genes expressed in FTLD-targeted brain regions. We then integrated primate comparative genomic data to test our hypothesis that FTLD targets brain regions expressing recently evolved genes. In addition, we asked whether genes expressed in FTLD-targeted brain regions are enriched for genes that undergo cryptic splicing when TDP-43 function is impaired. We found that FTLD-TDP and FTLD-tau subtypes target brain regions that express overlapping and distinct genes, including many linked to neuromodulatory functions. Genes whose normative brain regional expression pattern correlated with FTLD cortical atrophy were strongly associated with HARs. Atrophy-correlated genes in FTLD-TDP showed greater overlap with TDP-43 cryptic splicing genes compared with atrophy-correlated genes in FTLD-tau. Cryptic splicing genes were enriched for HAR genes, and vice versa, but this effect was due to the confounding influence of gene length. Analyses performed at the individual-patient level revealed that the expression of HAR genes and cryptically spliced genes within putative regions of disease onset differed across FTLD-TDP subtypes. Overall, our findings suggest that FTLD targets brain regions that have undergone recent evolutionary specialization and provide intriguing potential leads regarding the transcriptomic basis for selective vulnerability in distinct FTLD molecular-anatomical subtypes.
Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training to Improve Cardiometabolic Health in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Protocol for the Diabetes Inspiratory Training (DIT) Clinical Trial
Authors: Reed Baylee L. , Tavoian Dallin , Bailey E. Fiona , Funk Janet L. , Coletta Dawn K.
Published: October 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex, chronic metabolic disease that carries with it a high prevalence of comorbid conditions, making T2DM one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. Traditional lifestyle interventions (e.g., diet, exercise) can counter some adverse effects of T2DM; however, participation in these activities is low with reasons ranging from physical discomfort to lack of time. Thus, there is a critical need to develop novel management strategies that effectively reduce cardiometabolic disease risk and address barriers to adherence. High-resistance inspiratory muscle strength training (IMST) is a time-efficient and simple breathing exercise that significantly reduces systolic and diastolic BP and improves vascular endothelial function in adults with above-normal blood pressure. Herein, we describe the study protocol for a randomized clinical trial to determine the effects of a 6 week IMST regimen on glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in adults with T2DM. Our primary outcome measures include fasting plasma glucose, fasting serum insulin, and insulin sensitivity utilizing homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Secondary outcome measures include casual (resting) systolic BP and endothelial-dependent dilation. Further, we will collect plasma for exploratory proteomic analyses. This trial seeks to establish the cardiometabolic effects of 6 weeks of high-resistance IMST in patients with T2DM.
Wastewater detection of emerging arbovirus infections: Case study of Dengue in the United States
Authors: Wolfe Marlene K. , Paulos Abigail Harvey , Zulli Alessandro , Duong Dorothea , Shelden Bridgette , White Bradley J. , Boehm Alexandria B.
Published: October 2023

Climate change and urbanization are increasing the distribution of insect vectors of infectious diseases. Dengue virus is an arbovirus that causes nearly 100 million symptomatic infections per year and is endemic in 124 countries, and the range of its mosquito vectors continues to increase. Surveillance of dengue virus infections is complicated by the fact that infections can be asymptomatic and symptoms may not be readily recognizable to clinicians. Here we show that wastewater monitoring can be used to detect dengue virus RNA to yield information about circulation of dengue infections in a community. We collected three samples of wastewater solids per week from three different wastewater treatment plants in Miami-Dade County, Florida where dengue infections have been locally acquired. Using molecular methods, we tested wastewater solids for RNA from the 4 dengue virus serotypes and consistently detected dengue virus 3 RNA at all three wastewater plants, and did not detect the other 3 serotypes. According to publicly available data on dengue infections, the vast majority of infections were caused by serotype 3. Wastewater detection of dengue virus RNA is possible with as few as 4.23 laboratory confirmed dengue cases per 1 million people, based on publicly available infection data.

Synopsis

Dengue virus RNA was detected in wastewater solids in a location with local- and travel-associated dengue infections.
Visual boundary cues, alone, can anchor place and grid cells in virtual reality
Authors: Yang Xiuting , Cacucci Francesca , Burgess Neil , Wills Thomas , Chen Guifen
Published: November 2023

The hippocampal formation contains neurons responsive to an animal’s current location and orientation, which together provide the organism with a neural map of space1–3. Spatially tuned neurons rely on external landmark cues and internally generated movement information to estimate position4,5. An important class of landmark cue are the boundaries delimiting an environment, which can define place cell field position6,7and stabilise grid cell firing8. However, the precise nature of the sensory information used by the hippocampus to detect boundaries remains unknown. Here we use 2-dimensional virtual reality (VR)9to show that purely visual cues from the surrounding walls are both sufficient and necessary to stabilise place and grid cell responses. Unstable grid cells retain internally coherent, hexagonally arranged firing fields, but these fields ‘drift’ with respect to the virtual environment over periods >5 sec. Optic flow from a virtual floor does not slow drift dynamics, emphasising the importance of boundary-related visual information. Surprisingly, place fields are more stable close to boundaries even when these are invisible. Invisible boundary locations can only be inferred from the relative movements of the animal and a reward beacon, specifically, from the mismatch between observed beacon movement and that predicted from motor output. This shows that boundary information can be detected through sensorimotor feedback. We find that subsets of place cells show allocentric directional tuning towards the beacon, with strength of tuning correlating with place field stability when boundaries are removed.
Alternative splicing controls teneurin-3 compact dimer formation for neuronal recognition
Authors: Gogou Christos , Beugelink J Wouter , Frias Cátia P , Kresik Leanid , Jaroszynska Natalia , Drescher Uwe , Janssen Bert J C , Hindges Robert , Meijer Dimphna H
Published: October 2023

Neuronal network formation is facilitated by recognition between synaptic cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) at the cell surface. Alternative splicing of CAMs provides additional specificity in forming neuronal connections. For the teneurin family of CAMs, alternative splicing of the EGF-repeats and NHL domain controls protein-protein interactions at the synapse. Here we present a 3.2 Å cryo-EM structure of the compact dimeric ectodomain of teneurin-3 harbouring both splice inserts. This dimer is stabilised by an EGF8-ABD contact between subunits. Cryo-EM reconstructions of all four splice variants, together with SAXS and negative stain EM, reveal compacted dimers for each, with variant-specific dimeric arrangements. This results in specifictrans-cellular interactions, as tested in cell clustering and stripe assays. The compact conformations provide a structural basis for teneurin homo- and heterophilic interactions. Altogether, our findings demonstrate how alternative splicing results in rearrangements of the dimeric subunits, influencing neuronal recognition and circuit wiring.
Barriers and Facilitators for the Use of Telehealth by Healthcare Providers (HCP) in India - A Scoping Review
Authors: Sharma Parth , Rao Shirish , Kumar Padmavathy Krishna , Nair Aiswarya R , Agrawal Disha , Zadey Siddhesh , Gayathri S , Joseph Rachna George , Dayma Girish , Rafeekh Liya , Saha Shubhashis , Sharma Sitanshi , Prakash SS , Sankarapandian Venkatesan , John Preethi , Patel Vikram
Published: October 2023

Background

It is widely assumed that telehealth tools like mHealth, telemedicine, and tele-education can supplement the efficiency of Healthcare Providers (HCPs). We conducted a scoping review of evidence on the barriers and facilitators associated with the use of telehealth by HCPs in India.

Methods

A systematic literature search following a pre-registered protocol (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/KQ3U9[PROTOCOL DOI]) was conducted in PubMed. The search strategy, inclusion, and exclusion criteria were based on the World Health Organization’s action framework on Human Resources for Health (HRH) and Universal Health Coverage in India with a specific focus on telehealth tools. Eligible articles published in English from 1st January 2001 to 17th February 2022 were included.

Results

One hundred and six studies were included in the review. Of these, 53 studies (50%) involved mHealth interventions, 25 (23.6%) involved telemedicine interventions whereas the remaining 28 (26.4%) involved the use of tele-education interventions by HCPs in India. In each category, most of the studies followed a quantitative study design and were mostly published in the last 5 years. The study sites were more commonly present in states present in south India. The facilitators and barriers related to each type of intervention were analyzed under the following sub-headings-1) Human resource related, 2) Application related 3) Technical, and 4) Others. The interventions were most commonly used for improving the management of mental health, non-communicable diseases, and maternal and child health.

Conclusions

Use of telehealth has not been uniformly studied in India. The facilitators and barriers to telehealth use need to be kept in mind while designing the intervention. Future studies should focus on looking at region-specific, intervention-specific, and health cadre-specific barriers and facilitators for the use of telehealth.
Insecticidal Effects of Datura Species against Major Agricultural Pests
Authors: Sharma Meenakshi , Singh Vikas Kumar , Chaturvedi Deepti , Delta Anil Kumar , Sharma Madan Mohan , Kaushik Prashant
Published: October 2023

Insecticides derived from plants provide environmentally friendly and sustainable options as alternatives to synthetic chemicals. This investigation delves into the insecticidal capabilities of two distinct Datura species, namely, Datura alba and Datura stramonium, in combatting significant pests such asSpodoptera litura, Bemesia tabaci, andCallosobruchus maculatus. Datura plants have a well-documented history of medicinal use and are recognized for their abundant Tropane alkaloid content, which acts as an innate defense mechanism against pests. Hence, the current investigation involved the extraction of chemical compounds from the leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots of both Datura stramonium and Datura alba. Subsequently, these extracts were assessed for efficacy using Spodoptera litura larvae, Bemesia tabaci, andCallosobruchus maculatusin bioassays. The larvicidal experiments encompassed a range of concentrations (3%, 5%, 10%), with larval mortality being documented at multiple time intervals: 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. The findings from our investigation uncover the notable insecticidal attributes of root, leaf, flower, and seed extracts from bothDatura albaandDatura stramoniumagainst these larvae. These extracts demonstrated distinct mortality rates at various concentrations and exposure durations. This comprehensive analysis imparts crucial knowledge regarding the insecticidal qualities of Datura species and their prospective contributions to sustainable pest control practices. The observed effectiveness of these plant extracts against a spectrum of significant pests hints at their potential as ecological alternatives within integrated pest management strategies.
Individual variations in reward-seeking adaptability emerge among isogenic mice living in a micro-society and predict their response to nicotine
Authors: Fayad SL. , Reynolds LM. , Torquet N. , Tolu S. , Mondoloni S. , Nguyen C. , Justo R. , Didienne S. , Debray N. , Viollet C. , Raynaud L. , Layadi Y. , Hannesse B. , Capaz A.-M. , Topilko T. , Renier N. , Mourot A. , Marti F. , Ph Faure
Published: November 2023

Individual animals differ in their traits and preferences, which shape their social interactions, survival, and susceptibility to disease, including addiction. Nicotine use is highly heterogenous, and has been linked to the expression of personality traits. Although these relationships are well-documented, we have limited understanding of the neurophysiological mechanisms that give rise to distinct personalities and their connection to nicotine susceptibility. To address this question, we conducted a study using a semi-natural and social environment called “Souris-City” to observe the long-term behavior of individual mice. Souris-City provided both a communal living area and a separate test area where mice engaged in a reward-seeking task isolated from their peers. Mice developed individualistic reward-seeking strategies when choosing between water and sucrose in the test compartment, which, in turn, predicted how they adapted to the introduction of nicotine as a reinforcer. Moreover, mouse profiles in isolation also extended to correlate with their behavior within the social environment, linking decision-making strategies to the expression of behavioral traits. Neurophysiological markers of adaptability within the dopamine system were apparent upon nicotine challenge, and were associated with specific profiles. Our findings suggest that environmental adaptations influence behavioral traits and sensitivity to nicotine by acting on dopaminergic reactivity in the face of nicotine exposure, potentially contributing to addiction susceptibility. These results further emphasize the importance of understanding inter-individual variability in behavior to gain insight into the mechanisms of decision making and addiction.
Latitude-Driven Functional Trait Variations inZizania latifolia: Insights into Climate Adaptation
Authors: Jiang Hongsheng , Fan Xiangrong , Wagutu Godfrey Kinyori , Li Wei , Chen Yuanyuan
Published: October 2023

The global warming could have significant impact on plant adaptation to local environments. Widespread species provides a useful model to examine the population dynamic under climate change. However, it is still unclear how widespread aquatic species response to rapidly changing environments. Wild-riceZizania latifoliais an emergent macrophyte widely distributed across East Asia. Here, 28Z. latifolianatural populations covering above 30 latitudes were transplanted in a common garden. The growth, photosynthesis and reproduction traits were quantified and compared among populations, and pairwise relationships among geographic and genetic variables were estimated. Results showed that, in the common garden, the high-latitude populations grew in small size indicating weaker competitiveness in warmer temperatures; the low-latitude populations had no sexual reproduction, suggesting that low-latitude individuals stood little chance to migrate successfully to higher latitude. Significant positive correlations among the distances of genetic, geographic and morphological traits for populations indicated that both isolation by distance and isolation by environment models affected the genetic pattern of populations, and phenotypic traits ofZ. latifoliapopulations might be genetically determined. All our data suggest thatZ. latifoliawould be inadaptable to the global warming, indicating that this species would be at least at risk of local extinction in the warmer future.
Projections of wastewater as an indicator of COVID-19 cases in corrections facilities: a modelling study
Authors: Han Dan , Linares Pamela , Holm Rochelle H. , Chandran Kartik , Smith Ted
Published: November 2023

Background

Although prison facilities are not fully isolated from the communities they are located within, the majority of the population is confined and requires high levels of health vigilance and protection. This study sought to examine the dynamic relationship between facility level wastewater viral RNA concentration and probability of at least one positive COVID-19 case within the facility.

Methods

The study period was January 11, 2021 through May 12, 2023. Wastewater samples were collected and analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 (N1) and pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) three times per week across 14 prison facilities in Kentucky (USA). Confirmed positive clinical case reports were also provided. A hierarchical Bayesian spatial-temporal model with a latent lagged process was developed.

Findings

We modeled a facility-specific SARS-CoV-2 (N1) normalized by PMMoV wastewater ratio associated with at least one COVID-19 facility case with an 80% probability. The ratio differs among facilities. Across the 14 facilities, our model demonstrates an average capture rate of 94·95% via the N1/PMMoV threshold withpts≥ 0·5. However, it is noteworthy as theptsthreshold is set higher, such as at 0·9 or above, the model’s average capture rate reduces to 60%. This robust performance underscores the model’s effectiveness in accurately detecting the presence of positive COVID-19 cases of incarcerated people.

Interpretation

The findings of this study provide a correction facility-specific threshold model for public health response based on frequent wastewater surveillance.
Assembly of continuous high-resolution draft genome sequence ofHemicentrotus pulcherrimususing long-read sequencing
Authors: Komoto Tetsushi , Ikeo Kazuho , Yaguchi Shunsuke , Yamamoto Takashi , Sakamoto Naoaki , Awazu Akinori
Published: November 2023

The update of the draft genome assembly of sea urchin,Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus, which is widely studied in East Asia as a model organism of early development, was performed using Oxford nanopore long-read sequencing. The updated assembly provided ∼600 Mb genome sequences divided into 2,163 contigs with N50 = 516 kb. BUSCO completeness score and transcriptome model mapping ratio (TMMR) of the present assembly were obtained as 96.5 % and 77.8 % respectively. These results were more continuous with higher resolution than those by the previous version ofH. pulcerrimusdraft genome, HpulGenome_v1, where the number of scaffolds = 16,251 with a total of ∼100 Mb gaps, N50 = 143 kb, BUSCO completeness score = 86.1 %, and TMMR = 40.61. The obtained genome contained 36,055 gene models that were consistent with those in other echinoderms. Additionally, two tandem repeat sequences of early histone gene locus containing 47 copies and 34 copies of all histone genes, and 185 of the homologous sequences of the interspecifically conserved region of theArsinsulator, ArsInsC, were obtained. These results provide further advance for genome-wide research of development, gene regulation, and intranuclear structural dynamics of multicellular organisms usingHemicentrotus pulcherrimus.
Visually Driven Behavior Assays to Study Functionality and Recovery after Damage of the Aged African Turquoise Killifish Visual System
Authors: Bergmans Steven , Vanhunsel Sophie , Moons Lieve
Published: November 2023

Loss of vision is a prominent feature of aging and vision is considered by many to be the most valuable sense to be lost. In our graying society, we are increasingly challenged by age-related deterioration of the central nervous system (CNS), as well as by age-associated neurodegenerative diseases and brain injuries, all often affecting the visual system and thus its performance. Here, we describe two visually driven behavior assays to evaluate visual performance upon aging or CNS damage in the fast-aging killifish. The first test, the optokinetic response (OKR), measures the reflexive eye movement triggered by motion in the visual field and allows assessment of visual acuity. The second assay, the dorsal light reflex (DLR), evaluates the swimming angle based on input of light coming from above. The OKR can be used to study the effect of aging on visual acuity as well as visual improvement and recovery after rejuvenation therapy or visual system injury or disease, whereas the DLR is best used to assess functional repair after a unilateral optic nerve crush.
The influence of trust for sustainable agri-food production: empirical evidence of a mariculturist supply chain in Southern Brazil
Authors: Assis Michel Tavares Quinteiro Milcent , Lucas Maria Raquel David Pereira Ventura , Rainho Maria Matos
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to study the relationships of trust in a local agri-food supply chain in Southern Brazil. In an unsustainable context, where the number of mariculturists is decreasing, the authors seek to identify what the factors are and how they contribute to this problem, as well as find solutions aimed at the sustainability of that chain.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors carried out qualitative research with 15 semi-structured interviews that took place in the year 2021. The thematic analysis of the results applied the IRAMUTEQ software and the assessment of the narratives was guided by prior thematic analysis.

Findings

The supply chain under investigation requires better organisation. Communication and interpersonal trust proved important in the relationship between producers and control bodies. The university, as a seed supplier, needs predictability and efficiency to convey inter-organisational trust. Informal relationships are interpersonal and extremely trust-based and inter-organisational trust increases the performance of establishments and promotes the development of innovative structures. Furthermore, in crisis periods interpersonal trust increases.

Practical implications

The results allow policymakers to plan better their actions and build more effective tactics in order to reach sustainable development. This work is also important for stakeholders and managers, as it guides improvements in management, governance and sustainability of agri-food supply chains.

Originality/value

An unprecedented research was done on the studied supply chain, knowing the relationships of trust among them, identifying peculiar partnerships and recognising some constructs and outcomes of trust.
Effect of solid obstacle and thermal conditions on convective flow and entropy generation of nanofluid filled in a cylindrical chamber
Authors: Swamy H.A. Kumara , Mani Sankar , Reddy N. Keerthi , Do Younghae
Published: November 2023

Purpose

One of the major challenges in the design of thermal equipment is to minimize the entropy production and enhance the thermal dissipation rate for improving energy efficiency of the devices. In several industrial applications, the structure of thermal device is cylindrical shape. In this regard, this paper aims to explore the impact of isothermal cylindrical solid block on nanofluid (Ag – H2O) convective flow and entropy generation in a cylindrical annular chamber subjected to different thermal conditions. Furthermore, the present study also addresses the structural impact of cylindrical solid block placed at the center of annular domain.

Design/methodology/approach

The alternating direction implicit and successive over relaxation techniques are used in the current investigation to solve the coupled partial differential equations. Furthermore, estimation of average Nusselt number and total entropy generation involves integration and is achieved by Simpson and Trapezoidal’s rules, respectively. Mesh independence checks have been carried out to ensure the accuracy of numerical results.

Findings

Computations have been performed to analyze the simultaneous multiple influences, such as different thermal conditions, size and aspect ratio of the hot obstacle, Rayleigh number and nanoparticle shape on buoyancy-driven nanoliquid movement, heat dissipation, irreversibility distribution, cup-mixing temperature and performance evaluation criteria in an annular chamber. The computational results reveal that the nanoparticle shape and obstacle size produce conducive situation for increasing system’s thermal efficiency. Furthermore, utilization of nonspherical shaped nanoparticles enhances the heat transfer rate with minimum entropy generation in the enclosure. Also, greater performance evaluation criteria has been noticed for larger obstacle for both uniform and nonuniform heating.

Research limitations/implications

The current numerical investigation can be extended to further explore the thermal performance with different positions of solid obstacle, inclination angles, by applying Lorentz force, internal heat generation and so on numerically or experimentally.

Originality/value

A pioneering numerical investigation on the structural influence of hot solid block on the convective nanofluid flow, energy transport and entropy production in an annular space has been analyzed. The results in the present study are novel, related to various modern industrial applications. These results could be used as a firsthand information for the design engineers to obtain highly efficient thermal systems.
Investigating the unexpected determinants of cryptocurrency adoption in the UAE
Authors: Jegerson Devid , Mertzanis Charilaos , Khan Mehmood
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Financial inclusion provides access to financial infrastructure, facilitating money transfers. Therefore, blockchain and cryptocurrencies might boost worldwide financial acceptance. However, the UAE has one of the lowest cryptocurrency adoption rates. This study explores the UAE customer adoption and use of cryptocurrencies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a scale, the authors created a structural model and obtained 270 responses from a snowball-distributed online questionnaire, assessed by five cryptocurrency specialists.

Findings

Performance expectations (PE), price value (PV), Hedonic motivation (HM) and consumer innovativeness (CI) were the most significant predictors of behavioural intention (BI). Surprisingly, BI is not a reliable indication of actual consumption. Facilitating conditions (FC) are the most accurate predictor of cryptocurrency usage (CU), indicating that adoption might be increased by providing the necessary structures and processes to lead users.

Research limitations/implications

This research adds to the body of knowledge by examining the adoption and implementation of cryptocurrencies in the UAE and by developing and evaluating new constructs based on current notions. The study also contributes to the current understanding of cryptocurrencies and blockchain adoption.

Practical implications

The conclusions of the research advise marketers on how to boost the commercialisation of cryptocurrencies in the UAE market and may pave the way for other studies to assist impending developments in the UAE cryptocurrency industry.

Originality/value

This research offers novel insights into significant predictors of cryptocurrency product uptake in the financial and banking business.
Immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography on Co2+‐carboxymethylaspartate–agarose Superflow, as demonstrated by one‐step purification of lactate dehydrogenase from chicken breast muscle
Authors: Chaga Grigoriy , Hopp Jennifer , Nelson Paul
Published: October 2023

A rapid method for the purification of lactate dehydrogenase from whole chicken muscle extract in one chromatographic step is reported. The purification procedure can be accomplished in less than 1 h. A new type of immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography adsorbent is used that can be utilized at linear flow rates higher than 5 cm/min. The final preparation of the enzyme was with purity higher than 95% as ascertained by SDS‐PAGE. Three immobilized metal ions (Ni2+, Zn2+ and Co2+) were compared for their binding properties towards the purified enzyme. The binding site of the enzyme for immobilized intermediate metal ions was determined after cleavage with CNBr and binding studies of the derivative peptides on immobilized Co2+. A peptide located on the N‐terminus of the enzyme, implicated in the binding, has great potential as a purification tag in fusion proteins.
Amperometric biosensor involving covalent immobilization of choline oxidase and butyrylcholinesterase on a methacrylate–vinylene carbonate co‐polymer
Authors: Doretti Lucio , Ferrara Daniela , Lora Silvano , Palma Giancarlo
Published: October 2023

A two‐enzyme sensor for the determination of choline esters was prepared by the covalent co‐immobilization of choline oxidase and butyrylcholinesterase on polymer membranes, obtained by radiation‐induced co‐polymerization of 2‐hydroxyethylmethacrylate and vinylene carbonate at low temperature. The enzyme‐modified membrane was applied to a platinum electrode and the determination of substrates was based on the electrochemical detection of enzymically generated H2O2. The analytical characteristics of this sensor, including the optimization of immobilization procedures, calibration curves for different substrates, pH and temperature effects and stability, are described.
Secretory expression and characterization of insulin in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Kjeldsen Thomas , Pettersson Annette Frost , Hach Morten
Published: October 2023

The yeasts Pichia pastoris and Saccharomyces cerevisiae have similar overall features regarding the secretory expression of insulin. The S. cerevisiae mating factor α (α‐factor) prepro‐leader facilitated the secretion of an insulin precursor, but not proinsulin expressed in P. pastoris. Synthetic prepro‐leaders developed for the secretory expression of the insulin precursor in S. cerevisiae also facilitated the secretion of the insulin precursor expressed in P. pastoris. In contrast with S. cerevisiae, only insulin precursor and no unprocessed hyperglycosylated α‐factor pro‐leader/insulin precursor fusion protein was secreted from P. pastoris. A spacer peptide in the fusion protein increased the fermentation yield of the insulin precursor in P. pastoris. A synthetic prepro‐leader, but not an α‐factor prepro‐leader lacking N‐glycosylation sites, facilitated the secretion of the insulin precursor in P. pastoris. P. pastoris has a capacity for secretory expression of the insulin precursor that is equal to or better than that of S. cerevisiae. Peptide mapping and MS indicated a structure of the insulin precursor expressed in P. pastoris identical with that of human insulin.
Isolation of an acid fraction from a fish protein hydrolysate with a calcitonin‐gene‐related‐peptide‐like biological activity
Authors: Fouchereau‐Peron M. , Duvail L. , Michel C. , Gildberg A. , Batista I. , Le Gal Y.
Published: October 2023

The possibility of obtaining calcitonin and/or calcitonin‐gene‐related peptide (CGRP) immunorelated molecules from partly digested proteins was investigated with fish and shrimp hydrolysates. These two peptides were quantified by both radioimmunoassay and radioreceptor assay; the positive extracts were partly purified. Different hydrolysates were analysed: cod head, stomach and viscera hydrolysates, a shrimp hydrolysate and two sardine hydrolysates. Although each cod extract interacted in the CGRP radioimmunoassay, none of these extracts was able to displace the CT binding to its antibody. In contrast, shrimp and sardine hydrolysates interacted with both radioimmunoassays. Radioreceptor assays performed on the same extracts demonstrated that only three extracts contained the structural determinants that allowed them to interact in the CGRP radioreceptor assay. No interaction with the calcitonin radioreceptor assay could be demonstrated. Molecular sieving of the two sardine extracts showed that the immunoreactivity was resolved into two main fractions. The higher‐molecular‐mass fraction interacted only in the CGRP radioreceptor assay. The results obtained suggest the presence of a biologically related CGRP molecule in peptone hydrolysates and requires further investigation into the role of these peptide fragments in the regulation of intestinal function by partly digested proteins.
Detection by HPLC of a trypanothione synthetase activity in vitro from Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Ondarza Raul N. , Hernandez Eva , Iturbe Angelica , Hurtado Gerardo , Tamayo Elsa Maria
Published: October 2023

We have previously demonstrated the presence of glutathione‐spermidine (Gsp) and trypanothione [T(SH)2] from Entamoeba histolytica trophozoites, on the basis of results obtained with acid extracts purified by Florisil and DEAE‐cellulose, derivatized with the fluorescent reagent monobromobimane and separated by HPLC. Gsp was originally found in Escherichia coli and later in trypanosomatids such as Trypanosoma cruzi, T. brucei, T. congolense and the insect trypanosomatid Crithidia fasciculata, along with the novel compound T(SH)2, N1,N8‐bis(glutathionyl)‐spermidine. Here we demonstrate the presence of a T(SH)2 synthetase activity in partly purified extracts from Entamoeba histolytica HK9, incubated at two pH values (6.5 and 7.5) with reduced glutathione (GSH), spermidine and ATP, in the presence of Mg2+ at different time intervals. The thiol products were detected by HPLC in picomole amounts and compared with commercial Gsp and T(SH)2 standards. We have used also an extract of Crithidia luciliae as a reference, to compare our results with C. fasciculata, in which the presence of this enzyme has previously been demonstrated and was later purified and separated into two synthetase activities from the same source: one for Gsp and the other for T(SH)2. The presence of a T(SH)2 synthetase activity in Entamoeba histolytica means that this protozoan has a similar metabolism to that of the trypanosomatids and opens the possibility of establishing a rational drug design against this human parasite.
Purification and biochemical characteristics of β‐D‐xylanase from a thermophilic fungus, Thermomyces lanuginosus‐SSBP
Authors: Lin Johnson , Ndlovu Larry M. , Singh Suren , Pillay Balakrishna
Published: October 2023

An extracellular xylanase was purified to homogeneity from the culture filtrate of a thermophilic fungus, Thermomyces lanuginosus‐SSBP, and its biochemical characteristics were studied. A yield of 70–80% was achieved through the procedures of 80%‐satd. ammonium sulphate precipitation, DEAE‐Sephadex A25 and quaternary aminoethyl (QAE)‐Sephadex A25 column chromatography. The molecular mass of the purified xylanase was 23.6 kDa, as analysed by SDS/PAGE, with a pI value of 3.8. The molar absorption coefficient of the absorbance at 280 nm was 6.8×104 M−1·cm−1. The specific activity, calculated using the dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) method, was 3500 units/mg. The enzyme reactions followed Michaelis–Menten kinetics with Kappm and Vmax values of 3.26 mg/ml and 6300 units/ml per mg of protein respectively, as obtained from a Lineweaver–Burk plot. The xylanase contained no other enzyme activity (cellulase, β‐glucosidase, β‐mannosidase, α‐arabinofuranosidase, or β‐xylosidase) except for the hydrolysis of xylan substrate. The optimal temperature of the enzyme assay was 70–75 °C. The enzyme retained full activity after a 60 °C incubation for 3 h. The optimal pH of xylanase activity was 6.5 and the enzyme appeared to be stable over a broad pH range (pH 5–12) under the assay conditions. The majority of the metal ions tested had no effect on the enzyme activity, with the exception of Pb2+ (modest inhibitor) and Hg2+ (strong inhibitor). The results showed that one or two tryptophan residues oxidized by N‐bromosuccinamide per enzyme molecule was sufficient to inhibit the enzyme activity completely, thus indicating that the tryptophan residues play an important role in the catalytical processes of the enzyme reaction. Because of the outstanding properties of the purified xylanase from the SSBP strain, this xylanase has a potential use in biopulping processes and other industrial applications.
Purification and biochemical characteristics of β‐D‐glucosidase from a thermophilic fungus, Thermomyces lanuginosus–SSBP
Authors: Lin Johnson , Pillay Balakrishna , Singh Suren
Published: October 2023

The β‐D‐glucosidase produced by Thermomyces lanuginosus‐SSBP was purified to apparent homogeneity. The purified enzyme consisted of two identical subunits with a native molecular mass of 200 kDa. The purified β‐D‐glucosidase only hydrolysed the glucoside substrates containing a terminal, non‐reducing β‐D‐glucose residue and was active on both aryl‐β‐glucoside and cellobiose. This enzyme also exhibited less, but significant α‐D‐glucosidase activity and was capable of hydrolysing β‐1,6‐linked diglucosides and gentiobiose. The K appm, Vmax and kcat values for p‐nitrophenyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside were calculated to be 0.075 mM, 12.12 units/mg of protein and 44.44 glucose molecules released/s respectively. The β‐D‐glucosidase retained its full activity after a 30 min incubation at 50 °C but was inactive after the same treatment at 70 °C. The enzyme appeared to be stable when the pH of the storage buffer was above 5.0. Maximal β‐D‐glucosidase activity occurred at 65 °C and pH 6.0. This enzyme was competitively inhibited by glucose, cellobiose and salicin with Ki values of 0.55, 0.52 and 0.81 mM respectively. The presence of Hg2+ and N‐bromosuccinimide inhibited the enzyme activity completely at 2 mM, while cysteine enhanced β‐D‐glucosidase activity.
Apoptotic Nuclei Within the Uterine Decidua of First Trimester Pregnancy Arise from CD45 Positive Leukocytes
Authors: Hammer Astrid , Dohr Gottfried
Published: October 2023

PROBLEM: The Fas/Fas‐ligand (FasL) system is discussed to be one of the main components responsible for the formation and maintenance of an immune privilege. As we were able to detect FasL on fetal trophoblast cells infiltrating the maternal uterine tissue and Fas on decidual leukocytes (Hammer et al., Am J Reprod Immunol, 1999; 41: 41–51), we investigated whether apoptosis occurs in the maternal decidua during the first trimester of pregnancy.

METHOD OF STUDY: A TUNEL‐assay was performed in combination with immunofluorescence to detect and characterize cells undergoing apoptosis.

RESULTS: Apoptotic nuclei mainly arising from CD45+ leukocytes could be detected in the trophoblast‐invaded decidua basalis as well as in the non‐invaded decidua parietalis. However, while in the decidua parietalis the apoptotic leukocytes are scattered within the whole functional stroma, in the decidua basalis they are concentrated in the area around the so‐called “necrotic foci” and especially in the primary feto–maternal contact zone, where trophoblast cells from the cell columns begin to invade the maternal tissue.

CONCLUSION: Because of the irregular distribution of apoptotic CD45+ leukocytes in the decidua basalis we think that some of the maternal leukocytes are activated and killed by fetal trophoblast cells which express FasL.
Progress in Characterization of Pre‐Implantation Factor in Embryo Cultures and In Vivo
Authors: Barnea E.R. , Simon J. , Levine S.P. , Coulam C.B. , Taliadouros G.S. , Leavis P.C.
Published: October 2023

PROBLEM: Pre‐implantation factor (PIF), a small, embryo‐derived peptide is detected in the maternal serum prior to implantation and is associated with successful pregnancy outcome. However, its identity is not known.

METHOD OF STUDY: PIF was isolated from mouse embryo conditioned media and from pregnant porcine sera, using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) followed by mass spectrometry.

RESULTS: Conditioned culture media was separated by gel filtration chromatography followed by reversed phase chromatography. At each step, PIF activity was determined by the lymphocyte/platelet binding autorosette assay (LPBA). Mass spectrometry yielded a single peak with a mass of 1300 Da. The peptide is, however, present in very low concentrations (fM), which has so far precluded complete identification. Pregnant porcine sera that exhibit potent PIF activity were deproteinated by acetone and further fractionated by reversed phase HPLC. Active fractions contain peptides of molecular masses 523 and 551 Da.

CONCLUSION: PIF, likely to be peptides, represents a novel substance related to pregnancy initiation and maintenance.
Method Choice, Intent, and Gender in Completed Suicide
Authors: Denning Diane G. , Conwell Yeates , King Deborah , Cox Chris
Published: October 2023

Women who commit suicide use less violent methods, such as drugs and carbon monoxide poisoning, than do men, who more often use violent methods such as guns and hanging. Theories that attempt to explain this finding focus on gender differences in suicidal intent, socialization, emotions, interpersonal relationships, orientation and access to methods, and neurobiological factors. Data from a psychological autopsy study were used to test the theory that women who commit suicide use less violent means because they are less intent on dying. Although women were significantly less likely to use a violent method than men, there was no difference in the lethality of their suicidal intent.
Families, Mental Illness, and Suicide
Authors: Kosky Robert
Published: October 2023

The ways in which the key words “family,” “mental illness,” and “suicide” are interpreted in the context of research into suicide will influence the formation of theories, the interpretation of results, and the development of suicide prevention strategies. It is argued that there is no general agreement about the meaning of these words.
Depression, Suicide, and Suicide Prevention in Schizophrenia
Authors: Fenton Wayne S.
Published: October 2023

Suicide is the single largest cause of premature death among individuals with schizophrenia. Furthermore, epidemiological data indicate that nearly 80% of patients with the diagnosis of schizophrenia will experience a major depressive episode at some time during their lifetime. This report reviews recent findings relative to the risk of suicide in schizophrenia, including data from the Chestnut Lodge longitudinal study of schizophrenia subtypes and symptom domains. Paradoxically, those patients with schizophrenia who are most likely to recover or experience a good outcome are also those at greatest risk for suicide. The reduction of morbidity and mortality in schizophrenia should include depression and suicidality as targets for both psychopharmacological and psychosocial treatment.