bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of the Growth of Listeria monocytogenes in Cooked Ham through Combinations of Natural Ingredients
Authors: NIETO GEMA , PEÑALVER ROCÍO , ORTUÑO CARMEN , HERNÁNDEZ JUAN D. , GUILLÉN ISIDRO
Published: July 2023

In the food industry, Listeria is a standard control microorganism in ready-to-eat food since it may be pathogenic and cause a disease called listeriosis. The objective of the present study was to carry out a challenge test to verify the efficiency of different combinations of natural antimicrobial ingredients, against Listeria monocytogenes, to be used in ready-to-eat foods. Six different formulations of cooked ham were elaborated: a control, and five different formulations. An initial inoculation of 2 log cycles was used in the different products and the growth of Listeria was monitored at different temperatures and times (4° C for 17 w; 7ºC for 12 w). Control samples showed a progressive growth, reaching 5-6 log after 3 or 4 weeks. The rest of samples showed constant counts of Listeria during the all study. Only samples containing: 100 ppm nitrite + 250 PPM ascorbic acid+0,7% PRS DV-5 did not control the growth of Listeria at 7 ° C after 7 w of storage. The results obtained allowed to classified the cooked ham elaborated using any natural ingredients combinations as a “Ready-to-eat food unable to support the growth of L. monocytogenes other than those intended for infants and for special medical purposes”.
Participation of Secondary School Learners Aged 14 to 16 Years in Organised Sport
Authors: Mia Mohamed Ayyub , Malema Makhaya , Leach Lloyd
Published: July 2023

Background: In South Africa, a relatively small number of children and adolescents belong to sports clubs, and adolescent participation in organised sport has steadily declined, especially in recent years. Participation levels in organised sport has decreased during late childhood and, more increasingly, as adolescents grow older.

Aim: Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the participation of secondary school learners aged 14 to 16 years in organised sport.

Methods: The study was a quantitative and descriptive, cross-sectional design. The study sample was 329 conveniently sampled secondary school learners, males, and females, aged 14 to 16 years from three state schools in Cape Town, Western Cape Province. A researcher-generated, self-administered questionnaire on organised sport participation was developed, piloted, and validated among 44 learners of similar background, who did not participate in the main study. The statistical software, SPSS version 27, was used to capture and analyse the research data. The level of statistical significance for the study was set at p < 0.05.

Results: A total of 66.9% of participants in the study sample participated in organised sport. Low but significant correlations were reported between gender and participation in organised sport (r = 0.22; p < 0.001), gender and friend participation in organised sport (r = 0.24; p < 0.001), participants participation and sibling participation in organised sport (r = 0.23; p < 0.001), participants participation and friend participation in organised sport (r = 0.36; p < 0.001), and between participant participation and parental participation in organised sport (r = 0.17; p = 0.003).

Conclusion: Adolescent participation in organised sport was lower in the present circumstances compared to participation in the past three years. Adolescent males had higher participation levels in organised sport compared to adolescent females. There is an urgent need for solutions to counteract the low levels of adolescent participation in organised sport, especially in adolescent females.
Risk Stratification in Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Martini Francesco , Balducci Daniele , Mancinelli Martina , Buzzanca Valerio , Fracchia Elena , Tarantino Giuseppe , Benedetti Antonio , Marzioni Marco , Maroni Luca
Published: July 2023

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic, cholestatic liver disease with a heterogeneous presentation, symptomatology, disease progression, and response to therapy. The current risk stratification assessment, aimed at identifying patients with a higher risk of disease progression, encompasses an in-depth analysis of demographic data, clinical and laboratory findings, antibody profiles, and the evaluation of liver fibrosis using both invasive and non-invasive techniques. Treatment response scores after one year of therapy remain to date a major factor influencing the prognosis of PBC patients. While the initial therapeutic approach with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is universally applied, new second-line treatment options have recently emerged, with many others under investigation. Consequently, the prevailing one-size-fits-all approach is poised to be supplanted by tailored strategies, ensuring high-risk patients receive the most appropriate treatment regimen from diagnosis. This will require the development of a risk prediction model to assess, at the time of diagnosis, the course, outcome, and response to first and additional treatments of PBC patients. This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the current and emerging tools used for risk stratification in PBC and speculates on how these developments might shape the disease landscape in the near future.
HCN2 Channels in the Ventral Hippocampal CA1 Regulate Nociceptive Hypersensitivity in Mice
Authors: Zheng Yawen , Shao Shan , Zhang Yu , Yuan Shulu , Xing Yuanwei , Wang Jiaxin , Qi Xuetao , Cui Kun , Tong Jifu , Liu Fengyu , Cui Shuang , Wan You , Yi Ming
Published: July 2023

Chronic pain is a significant health problem worldwide. Recent evidence has suggested that dysfunctional states of the ventral hippocampus, including decreased neuronal excitability and connectivity with other brain regions, parallel pain chronicity and persistent nociceptive hypersensitivity in humans and rodents, respectively. But the molecular mechanisms underlying hippocampal modulation of pain remain poorly elucidated. In this study, we used ex vivo whole-cell patch-clamp recording, immunofluorescence staining and behavioral tests to examine whether hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channels 2 (HCN2) in the ventral hippocampal CA1 (vCA1) were involved in regulating nociceptive perception and CFA-induced inflammatory pain in mice. Reduced sag potential and firing rate of action potentials were observed in vCA1 pyramidal neurons from CFA-injected mice. Moreover, the expression of HCN2, but not HCN1, in vCA1 decreased in mice injected with CFA. HCN2 knockdown in vCA1 pyramidal neurons induced thermal hypersensitivity, whereas over-expression of HCN2 alleviated thermal hyperalgesia induced by intraplantar injection of CFA in mice. Our findings suggests that HCN2 in the vCA1 plays an active role in pain modulation and could be a promising target for the treatment of chronic pain.
Functional study of Amorpha fruticosa WRKY20 gene in response to drought stress
Authors: Li Danni , Gu Baoxiang , Huang Chunxi , Shen Jiayi , Wang Xin , Guo Jianan , Yu Ruiqiang , Mou Sirui , Guan Qingjie
Published: July 2023

The WRKY gene family in plants regulates the plant's response to drought through regulatory networks and hormone signaling. AfWRKY20 (MT859405) was cloned from A. fruticosa (Amorpha fruticosa,A. fruticosa) seedlings using RT-PCR. The binding properties of the AfWRKY20 protein and the W-box (a DNA cis-acting element) were verified both in vivo and in vitro using EMSA and Dual-Luciferase activity assays. RT-qPCR detected that the total expression level of AfWRKY20 in leaves and roots was 22 times higher in the 30% PEG6000 simulated drought treatment compared to the untreated group. Under the simulated drought stress treatments of sorbitol and ABA (abscisic acid,ABA), the transgenic tobacco with the AfWRKY20 gene showed enhanced drought resistance at the germination stage, with significantly increased germination rate, green leaf rate, fresh weight, and root length compared to the WT (wild type,WT) tobacco. In addition, the SOD (superoxide dismutase,SOD)activity, chlorophyll content, and Fv/Fm ratio of AfWRKY20 transgenic tobacco were significantly higher than those of the WT tobacco under natural drought stress, while the MDA (malondialdehyde,MDA) content and DAB (3,3'-diaminobenzidine,DAB) and NBT (nitroblue tetrazolium,NBT) staining levels were lower. The expression levels of oxidation kinase genes (NbSOD, NbPOD, and NbCAT) in transgenic tobacco under drought stress were significantly higher than those in WT tobacco. This enhancement in gene expression improved the ability of transgenic tobacco to detoxify ROS (reactive oxygen species,ROS). The survival rate of transgenic tobacco after natural drought rehydration was four times higher than that of WT tobacco. In summary, this study revealed the regulatory mechanism of AfWRKY20 in response to drought stress-induced ABA signaling, particularly in relation to the ROS. This finding provides a theoretical basis for understanding the pathways of WRKY20 involved in drought stress, and offers genetic resources for molecular plant breeding aimed at enhancing drought resistance.
Marine sediment sample was collected and the total aerobic population was counted and probiotic Bacillus cereus was isolated. Then it was mixed with formulated feed by spraying, while control diet was purchased from a local aquarium. 30 days of feeding ex
Authors: Mahadevi S. , P Keerthika. , H Ann Suji. , N Padmini. , Deivasigamani B , Raj T Suthin
Published: July 2023

Marine sediment sample was collected and the total aerobic population was counted and probiotic Bacillus cereus was isolated. Then it was mixed with formulated feed by spraying, while control diet was purchased from a local aquarium. 30 days of feeding experiment was conducted. Carassius auratus fishes were randomly divided into two experimental groups in rectangular tanks. The first group served as a control in which fishes were fed with commercial feed. The second group of fish were fed with probiotic incorporated feed. After 40 days, their survival and growth performance were detected. Bacillus cereus incorporated feed significantly yielded higher survival rate of the fish compared to control. Food conversion ratio (FCR) was significantly lower than the control group. The main aim of this work is to investigate the effect of a marine probiotic bacteria, Bacillus cereus on the survival and growth performance of gold fish Carassius auratus.
Unveiling Strong Dependence of Geometrical Aspect Ratio on the Magneto-Structural Properties of Co2Mn-Based Microwires
Authors: Wederni Asma , Salaheldeen Mohamed , Ipatov Mihail , Zhukova Valentina , Zhukov Arkadi
Published: July 2023

The present study illustrates the strong effect of geometrical parameters on the magneto-structural properties of Co2MnSi glass-coated microwires prepared using the Taylor-Ulitovsky method. Thus, two samples with different geometrical aspect ratios (ρ= d / D) have been fabricated, where d is the metallic nuclei diameter and D is the total diameter of the Co2MnSi microwire. The XRD analysis shows a significant change by modifying the aspect ratio, for ρ = 0.46 the main peak with miller indices (220) is recognized as an A2-type disordered cubic structure. Meanwhile, in the sample with a low aspect ratio, ρ = 0.31, the perfect L21 ordered cubic structure is attained. In addition, a decrease in average grain size from 36.62 nm to 28.07 nm by increasing the aspect ratio from 0.46 to 0.31 is observed. The magnetic characterization has been done in a wide range of temperatures and magnetic fields. Both of Co2MnSi samples show ferromagnetic behavior in a whole measuring temperatures range. A significant increase in coercivity and normalized reduced remanence by decreasing the aspect ratio is observed. The change in the magnetic properties is attributed to the modification in the microstructure, which is induced during the fabrication process. Such a dependence on the microstructure and magnetic properties on the ρ-ratio can be associated either with the internal stresses distribution and magnitude or with different quenching rates of microwires with different aspect ratios. The current findings demonstrate the tunability of microstructure and magnetic properties of Co2MnSi-glass-coated microwires simply, by a small modification in the geometric properties during the manufacturing process and without excreting any additional post-processing. The variation in geometric parameters of Co2MnSi glass-coated microwires allows us to tune magnetic properties and structure, which is essentially advantageous for sensing devices development.
Neurofilament Light Chain Levels Increase With Age and Are Associated With Worst Physical Function and Body Composition in Men but Not in Women
Authors: Capo Xavier , Galmes-Panades Aina , Navas-Enamorado Cayetano , Ortega-Moral Ana , Marin Silvia , Cascante Marta , Sanchez-Polo Andres , Masmiquel Luis , Torrens-Mas Margalida , Gonzalez-Freire Marta
Published: July 2023

Background: This study aimed to assess the relationship between age-related changes in Neuro-filament Light Chain (NFL), a marker of neuronal function, and various factors including muscle function, body composition, and metabolomic markers. Methods: The study included 40 partici-pants, aged 20 to 85 years. NFL levels were measured, and muscle function, body composition, and metabolomic markers were assessed. Results: NFL levels increased significantly with age, particularly in men. Negative correlations were found between NFL levels and measures of mus-cle function, such as grip strength, walking speed, and chair test performance, indicating a decline in muscle performance with increasing NFL. These associations were more pronounced in men. NFL levels also negatively correlated with muscle quality in men, as measured by 50 kHz phase angle. In terms of body composition, NFL was positively correlated with markers of fat mass and negatively correlated with markers of muscle mass, predominantly in men. Metabolomic analy-sis revealed significant associations between NFL levels and specific metabolites, with gen-der-dependent relationships observed. Conclusions: This study provides insights into the rela-tionship between circulating serum NFL, muscle function, and aging. The findings highlight gen-der differences and contribute to our understanding of age-related changes in neuronal function and their impact on muscle health.
The Role of NUDT2 in the Functioning of Human Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Razin Ehud , Abu-rahmah Rasha , Nechushtan Hovav , Hidmi Sana' , Meirovitz Amichay , Peretz Tamar
Published: July 2023

The main known function of Nudix hydrolase 2 (Nudt2) is to hydrolyze the secondary messenger diadenosine 5', 5’’’-p1, p4-tetraphosphate (Ap4A). In this study we examined the role of Nudt2 in breast carcinoma through its expression in the human invasion ductal carcinoma tissues, and its functions in human triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines. A significantly high expression of Nudt2 in the human invasion ductal carcinoma tissues was observed in our study. Knockdown of Nudt2 in TNBC cell lines showed a significant reduction in cellular proliferation via the Ki67 marker, accompanied by G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest. A significant reduction in the migration and invasion of Nudt2 knockdown TNBC cell lines was also observed. The effect of Nudt2 knockdown in the TNBC cell lines on tumorigenicity and anchorage-independent growth was assessed, where significant reductions in the Nudt2 knockdown TNBC cell lines were found. It can therefore be concluded that Nudt2 plays a significant role in promoting TNBC growth.
A Review on Genus Paramacrobiotus
Authors: Kayastha Pushpalata , Mioduchowska Monika , Kaczmarek Łukasz
Published: July 2023

Paramacrobiotus species has been described from almost every corner of the world. To date 45 species have been reported from this genus. The species’ presence in different climatic conditions and habitat provides evidence of their adaptation to various harsh environments. In this review, we provide a concise summary of changes observed due to various cryptobiotic conditions in many species of this genus, geographical distribution of all the species, feeding behaviour, life history, microbiome community, Wolbachia endosymbiont identification, reproduction, phylogeny and general taxonomy of the species from genus Paramacrobiotus. Furthermore, we provide a new diagnostic key to the genus Paramacrobiotus based on the morphological and morphometric characters of adults and eggs.
Brazilian beef production and GHG emission – social cost of carbon and perspectives for climate change mitigation
Authors: da Costa Mariana , Debone Daniela , Miraglia Simone
Published: July 2023

Among all Brazilian economic sectors, the livestock sector stands out due to its large production and high export volume. However, beef production is associated to significant environmental impacts, such as deforestation and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission. The Paris Agreement was settled to avoid that global mean temperature rise up to 1.5 – 2º C by 2100. In 2020, Brazil committed in its nationally determined contribution (NDC) to reduce its GHG emission by 43% until 2030. This study aims to identify the association of beef production and beef cattle emissions, as well as assess predictive GHG emission scenarios for 2030 and value these emissions. To translate the environmental impacts of beef production into economic impacts, and thus amplify the discussion, we valued GHG emissions using the social cost of carbon (SCC). The results showed that the business as usual (BAU) GHG emission derived from beef production would range between 0.423 and 0.634 GtCO2e in 2030, whereas the maximum emission estimated to meet the NDC should be 0.257 GtCO2e. The SCC revealed the opportunity to reduce between US $18.8 and $42.6 billion in the cost of BAU emissions from beef production in 2030 if the NDC is met. Lastly, assessing a scenario where climate targets and beef exports are prioritized, between 2-10 kg of beef per capita would be available in the domestic market in 2030. Our results reveal the need and urgency of changes in livestock production to emit less GHG per kg of beef produced, and the avoided monetary cost of reducing emissions.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae (boulardii) and the gut microbiota
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Evdokimova N.V. , Novikova V.P. ,   Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Khavkin A.I. ,   Veltischev Research and Clinical Institute for Pediatrics of the Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: July 2023

The human intestine is a complex ecosystem inhabited by bacteria, fungi, archaea, and viruses. However, the study of the intestinal microbiome attracts the most attention because of the abundance of bacteria. At the same time, given the diversity of microorganisms belonging to different kingdoms and coexisting in the same biotopes, studying only bacteria is a way to misunderstand the complexity of the processes occurring in the digestive tract. In this context, it is relevant to study the fungi inhabiting the digestive tract as participants in physiological and pathological processes in the host organism, as well as the therapeutic possibilities of individual representatives of the fungus kingdom. In this regard, of particular interest is Saccharomyces boulardii, a type of fungus that has a multifaceted effect on the human immune system, inhibiting the growth of bacterial pathogens and modulating the permeability of the digestive tract mucosa, which determines its active use as a probiotic in acute and chronic gastrointestinal diseases. Key words: Saccharomyces boulardii, probiotics, inflammatory bowel diseases, diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome
Prognostic factors for outcomes in patients with cystic fibrosis who are observed at the Federal Clinical Center
Authors:   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Zonenko O.G. , Suter P.I. ,   LifeMine Therapeutics (Switzerland) GmbH, Basel, Switzerland, Shumilov P.V. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Krasovsky S.A. ,   Pulmonology Scientific Research Institute, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: July 2023

Objective. To identify the factors significantly affecting clinical outcomes in patients with cystic fibrosis who are observed at the Federal Clinical Center based on a multivariate analysis of the disease course. Patients and methods. A total of 657 medical records of patients with cystic fibrosis were examined. The survival rate was analyzed depending on the type of genetic mutation and sex of patients. The dynamic model for predicting 2-year survival outcomes based on 36 parameters from the National Registry was developed. Results. The multivariate Cox proportional hazard model applied to dynamic data by a landmarking method revealed a statistically significant association between mortality over a 2-year lifetime with the values of the following factors: FEV1 (relative risk (RR): 0.95; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.94–0.97); cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (RR: 2.36; CI: 1.47–3.80); Burkholderia cepacia complex infection (RR: 3.22; CI: 2.12–4.91); need for oxygen therapy (RR: 1.9; CI: 1.15–3.12); previous pneumothorax (RR: 2.72; CI: 1.19-6.20); vitamin therapy (RR: 2.72; CI: 1.09–6.81); pancreatic enzyme intake (RR: 0.38; CI: 0.17–0.86). Conclusion. The awareness of prognostic survival factors will allow to optimize treatment and rehabilitation programs for patients with cystic fibrosis, which will lead to an increase in patients’ life expectancy. Key words: cystic fibrosis, children, survival rate
Risk Factors for All-Cause Early Reoperation Following Tumor Resection and Endoprosthetic Reconstruction
Authors: Kendal Joseph K. , Slawaska-Eng David , Gazendam Aaron , Schneider Patricia , Wessel Lauren E. , Ghert Michelle , Bernthal Nicholas M. ,   on behalf of the PARITY Investigators
Published: July 2023

Background:

Oncologic resection and endoprosthetic reconstruction of lower-extremity musculoskeletal tumors are complex procedures fraught with multiple modes of failure. A robust assessment of factors contributing to early reoperation in this population has not been performed in a large prospective cohort. The aim of the present study was to assess risk factors for early reoperation in patients who underwent tumor excision and endoprosthetic reconstruction, with use of data from the Prophylactic Antibiotic Regimens in Tumor Surgery (PARITY) trial.

Methods:

Baseline characteristics were assessed, including age, sex, tumor type, tumor location, presence of a soft-tissue mass, diabetes, smoking status, chemotherapy use, and neutropenia. Operative factors were recorded, including operative time, topical antibiotics, silver-coated prosthetics, endoprosthetic fixation, extra-articular resection, length of bone resected, margins, tranexamic acid, postoperative antibiotics, negative-pressure wound therapy, and length of stay. Univariate analysis was utilized to explore the differences between patients who did and did not undergo reoperation within 1 year postoperatively, and a multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model was utilized to explore the predictors of reoperation within 1 year.

Results:

A total of 155 (25.7%) of 604 patients underwent ≥1 reoperation. In univariate analysis, tumor type (p < 0.001), presence of a soft-tissue mass (p = 0.045), operative time (p < 0.001), use of negative-pressure wound therapy (p = 0.010), and hospital length of stay (p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with reoperation. On multivariate assessment, tumor type (benign aggressive bone tumor versus primary bone malignancy; hazard ratio [HR], 0.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04 to 0.63; p = 0.01), operative time (HR per hour, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.23; p < 0.001), and use of negative-pressure wound therapy (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.30 to 2.90; p = 0.002) remained significant predictors of reoperation within 1 year.

Conclusions:

Independent variables associated with reoperation within 1 year in patients who underwent tumor resection and endoprosthetic reconstruction included tumor type (benign aggressive bone tumor versus primary bone malignancy), operative time, and use of negative-pressure wound therapy. These results will help to inform patients and surgeons regarding the risk of reoperation by diagnosis and reinforce operative time as a factor influencing reoperation. These results also support further investigation into the use of negative-pressure wound therapy at the time of surgery in this patient population.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Pediatric and Adult Patients Have Similar Functional Improvement After Endoprosthetic Reconstruction of Lower-Extremity Tumors
Authors: Tran Tina H. , Hayden James B. , Gazendam Aaron M. , Ghert Michelle , Gundle Kenneth R. , Doung Yee-Cheen ,   on behalf of the PARITY Investigators
Published: July 2023

Background:

Although the treatment of lower-extremity bone tumors is similar between adult and pediatric patients, differences in outcomes are unknown. Outcomes for lower-extremity oncologic reconstruction have been challenging to study because of the low incidence and heterogeneity in disease and patient characteristics. The PARITY (Prophylactic Antibiotic Regimens in Tumor Surgery) trial is the largest prospective data set assembled to date for patients with lower-extremity bone tumors and presents an opportunity to investigate differences in outcomes between these groups.

Methods:

Patient details were acquired from the prospectively collected PARITY trial database. The 1993 Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS-93) and Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS) questionnaires were administered preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Continuous outcomes were compared between groups with use of the Student t test, and dichotomous outcomes were compared with use of the Pearson chi-square test.

Results:

A total of 150 pediatric and 447 adult patients were included. Pediatric patients were more likely than adult patients to have a primary bone tumor (146 of 150 compared with 287 of 447, respectively; p < 0.001) and to have received adjuvant chemotherapy (140 of 149 compared with 195 of 441, respectively; p < 0.001). Reoperation rates were not significantly different between age groups (45 of 105 pediatric patients compared with 106 of 341 adult patients; p ≤ 0.13). Pediatric patients had higher mean MSTS-93 scores (64.7 compared with 53.8 among adult patients; p < 0.001) and TESS (73.4 compared with 60.4 among adult patients; p < 0.001) at baseline, which continued to 1 year postoperatively (mean MSTS-93 score, 82.0 compared with 76.8 among adult patients; p = 0.02; mean TESS, 87.7 compared with 78.6 among adult patients; p < 0.001). Despite the differences in outcomes between cohorts, pediatric and adult patients demonstrated similar improvement in MSTS-93 scores (mean difference, 17.4 and 20.0, respectively; p = 0.48) and TESS (mean difference, 14.1 and 14.7, respectively; p = 0.83) from baseline to 1 year postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Pediatric patients had significantly better functional outcomes than adult patients at nearly all of the included postoperative time points; however, pediatric and adult patients showed similar mean improvement in these outcomes at 1 year postoperatively. These findings may be utilized to help guide the postoperative expectations of patients undergoing oncologic reconstruction.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Assessing Digital Learning Platforms in Higher Education with Reference to Student Satisfaction- A PLS-SEM Approach
Authors: Singh Harendra , Singh Vikrant Vikram , Gupta Aditya Kumar , Kapur P K
Published: July 2023

Knowledge and information are crucial to any society's progress; hence the level of education and awareness of its citizens directly affects that progress. In this economy, various factors come into play, such as the availability of educated and skilled workers, the development of novel and efficient systems, and the state of the information infrastructure. The recent epidemic, which prompted widespread lockdowns and restrictions, will continue to be felt for decades. The repercussions of such events have been most noticeable among educators and their students. Thus online education is need of the hour to make sure quality education reaches to each corner of the world on timely basis. So the assessment of digital learning platform in higher education institutions of India is the primary topic of this research. This study examines the various facets of student satisfaction as well as the future of online learning. 460 responses were collected via a Likert-scale questionnaire in a randomly selected online survey. The R programming language was used to do a partial least squares structural equation modeling analysis on the data in R studio. Based on the findings of the study, it is clear that both students and teachers will be able to adapt throughout the course of time, and it is possible that the teaching-learning process will evolve into a hybrid form of education.
Chemical Composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils of two wild olive subspecies Olea europaea subsp. europaea var. Sylvestris and the endemic Olive Olea europaea subsp. lapperinie
Authors: Bouchoucha Sara , BOUKHEBTI Habiba , Oulmi Abdemalek , Mouhamadi Yacine , Chaker Adel Nadjib
Published: July 2023

Two wild olive subspecies fixed in this research: Olea europaea subsp. europaea var. sylvestrisand Olea europaea subsp. laperrinei despite its ecological value, the chemical composition of subsp. laperrinei oil remains unknown, the samples were harvested from the different geographical area. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry(GC-MS) and Gas Chromatography-flame-ionization detection (GC-FID) analysis of subsp europaea var. sylvestris allowed the identification of 29 compounds oil with Nonanal (11.82%), theaspiranea A (9.81%), 3-hexen-1-ol,benzoate(9.31%) as a major constituents , while the subspecies of the Saharan region were resultedthe identification of 31 compounds where α-pinene (16%) , β-Ocimene (12.82%), dl-Limonene(8.20%) was the main components . The results of the disc diffusion method showed that the two volatile oils have efficient antibacterial activity but, subsp. laperrinei essential oil has a higher range of inhibition, in which P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis showed extreme sensitivity, while the K. pneumoniae bacterium shows great resistance to the two essential oils.
Effects of the Exposure of Aged Micro-Polyethylene Terephthalate on the Growth Status and Photosynthesis of Chlorella sp. UTEX1602
Authors: Li Ruikang , Song Chunfeng
Published: July 2023

Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in aquatic ecosystems worldwide, but their effects on plankton, especially the effect of aged MPs on freshwater microalgae, are not well-known. To investigate this issue, we studied the effects of untreated micro-polyethylene terephthalate (untreated-mPET) and strong alkali micro-polyethylene terephthalate (NaOH-mPET), strong acid micro-polyethylene terephthalate (HCl-mPET), high temperature micro-polyethylene terephthalate (HT-mPET) and ultraviolet micro-polyethylene terephthalate (UV-mPET) on the growth and photosynthetic pigment yield of Chlorella sp. UTEX1602 (8d). The results showed that aged mPET enhanced the toxicity of mPET to Chlorella sp. UTEX1602 compared to the toxicity of untreated-mPET. Moreover, 100 mg/L and 200 mg/L NaOH-mPET, and 20 mg/L UV-mPET and HT-mPET inhibited the growth of Chlorella sp. UTEX1602, as well as chlorophyll and carotenoids. The changes in the concentration of key active enzymes also confirmed the toxic effect of MPs on Chlorella sp. UTEX1602. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Zetasizer were used to determine the effect of aging on the surface characteristics of mPET. The reduction of hydroxyl and zeta potential affected the interaction between MPs and microalgae, thereby increasing the toxicity of aged MPs. By using a liquid chromatography-high-resolution quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometer, we determined the effect of aging on the leachate of MPs. The increased content of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) indicated that the toxic effect of MPs on microalgae might be caused by MPs and the leachate of MPs. Aged-mPET stimulated an increase in the content of extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) produced by Chlorella sp. UTEX1602 and alduronic acid in EPS; thus, the biopolymer based on microalgae can be used as a bio-flocculant to remove MPs. The results help to better understand the impact of aging on MPs in the environment and presented here provide more evidence regarding the risks that MPs bring into freshwater ecosystems. Future studies on MPs aging should narrow the knowledge gap between laboratory simulations and actual conditions and increase environmental relevance.
Lead poisoning as a differential diagnosis in pediatric patients with chronic abdominal pain: A case-control study in Tehran‑Iran
Authors: Abbasi Farzaneh , Esmaeili Nazanin , Yazdi Mohammad , Alimadadi Hossein , Rahmani Parisa , Solgi Fatemeh , mohsenipour Rehaneh , Sharifi Farshad , Mohebbi Ali , khazdouz maryam
Published: July 2023

Background
Chronic abdominal pain is a potential complication of lead poisoning which is often challenging to diagnose. This case-control study aimed to evaluate blood lead levels in pediatrics with chronic abdominal pain.
Methods
The patients who presented to the gastrointestinal disease’s clinic of Children's Medical Center Hospital with the chief complaint of abdominal pain with no known etiology were enrolled in the study between April 2021–2023. Blood samples were collected to measure blood lead levels. Blood lead values of 10 µg /dL or higher were regarded as lead poisoning.
Results
There was no significant difference between age, sex, and height of the patients with chronic abdominal pain (case group) and the control group; whereas the mean (± standard deviation [SD]) weight was remarkably low in patients with chronic abdominal pain; 27.25(± 12.1) kg vs. control group: 31.70(± 14.7) kg (P value = 0.028). Fifty nine percent of children with chronic abdominal pain had serum lead levels ≥ 10 µg/dL. The mean (SD) of blood lead levels were statistically high in the case group: 11.09 (± 5.35) µg/dL vs. control group:8.26 (± 5.01) µg/dL) (P value ≤ 0.05). The appetite level was significantly low in case group; 3.8 (± 2.5) vs. control group 5.4 (± 1.3).
Conclusions
Lead poisoning should be considered as the differential diagnosis of chronic abdominal pain in children with no known etiology. Regarding the high rate of lead poisoning in the children exerting appropriate measures to reduce the exposure of children to lead is necessary.
Boosting multidimensional assessment of body image: Psychometric analysis of the Body Responsiveness Questionnaire in the Portuguese population
Authors: Torres Sandra , Vieira Ana Isabel , Vieira Filipa Mucha , Lencastre Leonor , Guerra Marina Prista , Miller Kylee , Barbosa Maria Raquel
Published: July 2023

Body responsiveness refers to the tendency to be attuned to the body’s needs and use interoceptive information to guide behavior. Despite its potential beneficial effect on the development of positive body image, this construct is currently understudied. To boost research in this area, we examined the factor structure, gender invariance, and psychometric properties of a Portuguese translation of the Body Responsiveness Questionnaire (BRQ). A total of 650 men and women (aged 18–80 years) completed the Portuguese BRQ. To assess its convergent validity, participants also completed measures of body appreciation, emotion regulation, depression symptoms, and psychological quality of life. Exploratory factor analysis indicated a two-factor structure of the BRQ, which was upheld using confirmatory factor analysis: “Importance of Interoceptive Awareness” (ω = .85-.87) and “Perceived Connection” between body and mind (ω = .71-.74). BRQ scores had partial scalar invariance across gender, and no significant gender differences. Convergent validity was supported, as well as known-groups validity, with participants with overweight/obesity assigning higher importance of body signals to guide behavior than those with normal weight. The Portuguese version of the BRQ is a psychometrically sound measure of body responsiveness and it may contribute to a comprehensive assessment of positive body image to guide intervention.
Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis Identifies Disrupted Branched-Chain Amino Acid Catabolism as Causal for Sarcopenia
Authors: Li Tao , Zhao Rui , Zuo Xinrong , Wu Minming , Wang Yanyan , Tang Kuo , Wang Yang , Cao Yang
Published: July 2023

Sarcopenia is a geriatric skeletal muscle disorder with a gradual loss of skeletal muscle mass and function. Despite its prevalence, the underlying mechanisms of sarcopenia are not yet fully understood, and there are currently no approved treatments. In this study, we conduct a comprehensive analysis of the molecular and metabolic signatures of skeletal muscle in early and late stages of sarcopenia using multi-omics approaches. We found substantial metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction in sarcopenia. Our results reveal that disrupted BCAA catabolism is a prominent pathway in sarcopenia, which leads to BCAA accumulation and decreased muscle strength and mass. Machine learning analysis further supports the causal role of BCAA catabolic dysfunction in sarcopenia. We further validate our results using separate cohorts of sarcopenia patients and muscle-specific Ppm1k knockout mice. The study highlights the importance of improving BCAA catabolism as a potential strategy for slowing down the progression of sarcopenia.
Identifying iodine deficiencies from dietary transitions using shopping data
Authors: Mansilla Roberto , Long Gavin , Welham Simon , Harvey John , Evgeniya Lukinova , Nica-Avram Georgiana , Smith Gavin , Salt David , Smith Andrew , Goulding James
Published: July 2023

Plant-based product replacements are rising in popularity, however, long-term health implications remain poorly understood, and available methods of assessment hamper population-level determination of nutritional impacts. We examine anonymised loyalty-card shopping records from Co-op Food, UK, to identify dietary transitions over time. We focus on 10,626 frequent customers who directly replaced milk with alternative milks. We then use product nutritional information to estimate weekly
nutrient intake before and after the transition. 83% who converted to alternative milk saw a fall in iodine (44%), calcium (30%) and vitamin B12 (39%) consumption with 57% reducing iodine purchase of more than 50%. The decline is even higher for those switching dairy and meat products. Our findings suggest that dietary transitions - such as replacing milk with alternative milks - could lead to nutritional deficiencies, notably iodine, which if not addressed may represent a significant public health concern, particularly in countries which do not mandate salt iodisation.
Bronchial spasm after inducing anesthesia followed by intraoperative tracheal catheter obstruction: a case report
Authors: Jin Bi , Luo Hong , Heng Yang
Published: July 2023

Background
Bronchial spasm and tracheal tube obstruction are rare but dangerous emergencies during anesthesia. It is even rarer for these two situations to occur simultaneously in the same patient.
Case presentation
In September 2022, a patient with endotracheal intubation experienced bronchospasm and then sputum obstruction of the tracheal tube during general anesthesia in our hospital. Thanks to the rapid identification of the etiology and timely intervention, the patient successfully completed the operation without any adverse outcomes.
Conclusion
During general anesthesia, various unexpected situations may occur at any time, and we need to constantly pay attention to the patient's vital signs. In case of emergency situations, timely detection and prompt handling can save the patient's life
An ADAM10 exosite inhibitor is efficacious in an in vivo collagen-induced arthritis model
Authors: Diez Juan , Selsted Michael E. , Bannister Thomas D. , Minond Dmitriy
Published: July 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune inflammatory disease which affects millions of people worldwide. There are multiple disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs available; however, many of the patients do not respond to any treatment. A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 10 has been suggested as a potential new target for RA due to its role in releasing of multiple pro- and anti-inflammatory factors from the cell surface of cells. In the present study we determined pharmacokinetic parameters and in vivo efficacy of a compound CID3117694 from a novel class of non-zinc-binding inhibitors. Oral bioavailability was demonstrated in blood and synovial fluid after 10mg/kg dose. To test efficacy, we established the collagen-induced arthritis model in mice. CID3117694 was administered orally at 10, 30, and 50 mg/kg/day for 28 days. CID3117694 was able to dose-dependently improve disease score, decrease RA markers in blood and decrease signs of inflammation, hyperplasia, pannus formation, and cartilage erosion in affected joints as compared to the untreated control. Additionally, mice treated with CID 3117694 did not exhibit any clinical signs of distress, suggesting low toxicity. The results of this study suggest that ADAM10 exosite inhibition can be a viable therapeutic approach to RA.
The Identification of Genetic Variation and Principal Components in Pepper (Capsicum spp.) Implications of Genotypes for Breeding and Crop Improvement
Authors: Parvin Nighat , Author Md. Arifuzzaman
Published: July 2023

The goal of this research was to evaluate the level of distinction amongst pepper (Capsicum spp.) varieties. From November 2019 to April 2020, carried out at the university’s experimental field during the Rabi season. Thirty different pepper genotypes, including bell, jalapeo, poblano, cayenne, serrano, and pepperoncini, were used in this investigation. The study used a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Estimates were made for pepper genotypes about days to flowering, fruit length, fruit diameter, number of branches, chlorophyll content, individual fruit weight, dry weight, thousand seed weight, and vitamin C content. The findings showed that the C80 genotype had the heaviest individual fruit weight (20.83 g), whereas the C88 genotype had the lowest fruit weight (1.91 g). Individual fruit weight of pepper genotypes was shown to be positively associated with both fruit length (0.80***) and chlorophyll content (0.79***) in the correlation analysis. The relationship between plant height and dry weight is statistically significant and favorable (0.83***). The 30 genotypes were clustered into 5 categories using Mahalanobis D2 analysis. Twelve different pepper genotypes were found in Cluster I, whereas just one was found in Cluster V. Clusters I and II produced fruits with greater average weights. According to the bi-plot, the parameters fruit diameter, dry weight, fruit length, ascorbic acid content, and plant height were best matched by the genotypes C82, C47, C43, and C37. These pepper genotypes were found in three different groups (I, II, and IV) and may be useful for future hybridization projects in the nation.
Emotional Processing, Coping, and Cancer-Related Sickness Symptoms in Breast Cancer Survivors: Cross- Sectional Secondary Analysis of the REPAT Study
Authors: Harel Keren , Czamanski-Cohen Johanna , Cohen Miri , Weihs Karen L.
Published: July 2023

Purpose: The study aims to provide a better understanding of the relationship between emotional processing, coping, and cancer-related sickness symptoms.
Methods: The study used a cross-sectional, secondary analysis of data from 179 Israeli Jewish women who were breast cancer survivors (BCS) 3 to 18 months after completing primary treatment and who participated in a larger randomized controlled trial (REPAT study). Data were collected at baseline. Participants completed questionnaires measuring emotion acceptance, situational approach, avoidance coping, and cancer-related sickness symptoms (depression, fatigue, and pain) and a performance measure of emotional awareness. Hierarchical linear regressions were performed, controlling for background variables.
Results: Participants experienced significant clinical depression (51.7%), cancer-related fatigue (CRF, 78.8%), pain interference (78%), and pain intensity (66%) levels. There were strong correlations between cancer-related symptoms. After controlling for confounders, emotional processing (acceptance) was negatively associated with depression, and avoidance coping was positively associated with depression, CRF, and pain interference (i.e., higher use of avoidance related to higher cancer-related symptoms; higher acceptance was associated with lower depression). Emotional awareness and coping by approaching emotions were not related to cancer-related symptoms.
Conclusions: The BCS posttreatment period presents the challenge of dealing with elevated cancer-related symptoms. Regardless, BCS who used high emotional processing levels—especially acceptance of emotion and lower reliance on avoidance to cope—experienced fewer cancer-related symptoms.
Implications for Cancer Survivors: Professionals should recognize the potential role of emotional processing and avoidant coping relative to cancer-related symptoms and recognize their patterns in posttreatment patients.
A systematic assessment of Leishmania donovani infection in domestic and wild animal reservoir hosts of zoonotic Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Pandey Ramendra Pati , Peer Gajala Deethamvali Ghouse , Priyadarshini Anjali , Gupta Archana , Vibhuti Arpana , Leal Elcio , Costa Antonio Charlys da , Prudencio Carlos , Chang Chung-Ming , Raj V. Samuel
Published: July 2023

Background
Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease with a global spread that affects both domestic and wild animals in addition to people. Leishmania donovani is the suspected anthroponotic cause of VL in India, where it is an endemic disease. The reservoir hosts play a crucial role in the life cycle of the Leishmania parasite. The complicated connection between the pathogen, vector, and reservoir exhibits geographical and temporal diversity. Human-to-human and, to a lesser extent, human-to-animal transmission is the principal mechanism for the maintenance of anthroponotic diseases.
Scope and approach
A deliberate, systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar using keywords such as "Leishmania donovani," "zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis," and "wild animal reservoir for leishmania donovani." 530 potentially significant references were obtained from these 507 were disallowed due to copy avoidance, irrelevant titles, research publications from nations other than India, or modified compositions. The remaining 20 investigations were later rejected because they did not meet the criteria for inclusion. Finally 3 research papers with 867 goats, 161 cattles, 106 chickens, 26 sheep, 3 buffaloes, 406 dogs and 309 rats were reported.
Conclusion
According to the review, goats are the epidemic's primary host and possible reservoir in several regions of India. In the endemic regions of the disease, some species of rodents along with the canines appear to be maintaining the L. donovani transmission cycle.