bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Investigation of Cuscuta campestris Yunck. Stem Extract and Evaluation of Its Bioherbicidal Effect on Amaranthus retroflexus L. and Portulaca oleracea L
Authors: Sarić‐Krsmanović Marija , Tojić Teodora , Gajić Umiljendić Jelena , Đorđević Tijana , Đurović‐Pejčev Rada , Radivojević Ljiljana , Božić Dragana , Vrbničanin Sava
Published: May 2023

This study focused on characterizing chemically and evaluating in vitro allelopathic and bioherbicidal potential of secondary metabolites extracted from the stem of Cuscuta campestris in seed germination, early seedling growth and early plant growth of Amaranthus retroflexus and Portulaca oleracea. The combined effects of stem extract and a reduced dose of herbicide metribuzin were also examined. Plant extract contained 17 phenolic compounds and the most abundant phenols were flavonoids: quercetin, (+)‐catechin, daidzin, luteolin, and rutin. The seeds of P. oleracea were less sensitive than the seeds of A. retroflexus. The seed bioassay confirmed the inhibitory effect of stem extract on germination and early growth of both weed seedlings at concentrations of 0.75 % and 1 %, and a minor inhibitory effect in the plant bioassay. On the other hand, a synergy of C. campestris stem extract and metribuzin was revealed, as their combination achieved better results in the control of both weed species. Based on obtained data C. campestris stem extract could be a potential source of natural‐based weed control molecules.
A New Carvotacetone Derivative from the Aerial Part of Sphaeranthus africanus
Authors: Thuy Le Huong , Vu Thien‐Y , Nguyen Tran‐Van‐Anh , Dinh Tri Mai , Pham Nguyen‐Kim‐Tuyen , Truong Nguyen Huy , Nguyen Ngoc‐Hong , Nguyen Huu‐Hung , Duong Thuc‐Huy
Published: May 2023

Sphaeranthus africanus L. is native in Vietnam. Little is known about α‐glucosidase inhibition of Sphaeranthus africanus and its isolated compounds. A bioactive‐guided isolation was applied to the Vietnamese Sphaeranthus africanus to find α‐glucosidase inhibitory components. Eight compounds were detected and structurally elucidated. They are 3‐angeloyloxy‐5‐[2′′,3′′‐epoxy‐2′′‐methylbutanoyloxy]‐7‐hydroxycarvotacetone, 3‐angeloyloxy‐5‐[3′′‐chloro‐2′′‐hydroxy‐2′′‐methylbutanoyloxy]‐7‐hydroxycarvotacetone, 3‐angeloyloxy‐5‐[2′′R,3′′R‐dihydroxy‐2′′‐methyl‐butanoyloxy]‐7‐hydroxycarvotacetone, 3‐angeloyloxy‐5‐[2′′S,3′′R‐dihydroxy‐2′′‐methylbutanoyloxy]‐7‐hydroxycarvotacetone, 3‐angeloyloxy‐5‐[2′′S,3′′S‐dihydroxy‐2′′‐methylbutanoyloxy]‐7‐hydroxycarvotacetone, 5‐angeloyloxy‐7‐hydroxy‐3‐tigloyloxycarvotacetone, 3‐O‐methylquercetin, and chrysosplenol D. Their chemical structures were elucidated by extensive 1D and 2D NMR analysis and high‐resolution mass spectroscopy as well as comparisons in literature. 3‐Angeloyloxy‐5‐[2′′S,3′′S‐dihydroxy‐2′′‐methylbutanoyloxy]‐7‐hydroxycarvotacetone is a new compound. Isolated compounds were evaluated for the α‐glucosidase inhibition. Isolated compounds showed moderate activity with IC50 values ranging from 128.9–274.3 μM while others are weak. A molecular docking study was conducted, indicating that isolated compounds are potent α‐glucosidase inhibitory compounds.
Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis as the first presentation of Graves' disease: A case report
Authors: Al‐Mashdali Abdulrahman F. , Alfatih Mohammed , Umer Waseem , Eldeeb Yasser
Published: May 2023

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare disease seen predominantly in men of Asian origin. It should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with acute onset of weakness, and it is reversible after the correction of serum potassium. TPP can rarely be the initial presentation of Graves' disease.
Lewis Acid‐Catalyzed Ring‐Opening Alcoholysis of Cyclohexene Oxide: The Role of Open Metal Sites in the Bi(III)‐based Metal‐Organic Framework SU‐101
Authors: Obeso Juan L. , Gabriel Flores J. , Flores Catalina V. , Rios‐Escobedo Reyna , Aguilar‐Pliego Julia , Ken Inge A. , Antonio de los Reyes José , Peralta Ricardo A. , Ibarra Ilich A. , Leyva Carolina
Published: May 2023

SU‐101 was screened for the acid‐catalyzed ring‐opening alcoholysis of cyclohexene oxide. Results indicated access to open metal sites within SU‐101, a fundamental requirement (Lewis acid Bi+3 sites) for this reaction. In addition, SU‐101 exhibited high chemical stability, demonstrated by retaining its crystalline structure after the reaction. The cyclohexene conversion was estimated to be 99.8, 96.8, and 14.3 % at 40 °C for methanol, ethanol, and propanol, respectively. Also, SU‐101 demonstrated an outstanding catalytic cyclability performance for five cycles without losing catalytic activity.
Visible‐Light‐Responsive Crystalline Solids by Equipping Covalent Organic Frameworks with Donor‐Acceptor Stenhouse Adducts
Authors: Duan Yongli , Sun Fanxi , Gao Ang , Wang Zhen , Xiong Xiaoyu , Mao Lijun , Han Bo , He Chao , Deng Xu , Zheng Yonghao , Wang Dongsheng
Published: May 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Controlling properties of crystalline solids by light remains a challenge because the lack of intrinsic structural flexibility limits the necessary molecular mobility for photoisomerization. In this work, we reported a series of visible‐light‐responsive covalent organic frameworks (COFs) by introducing donor‐acceptor Stenhouse adducts (DASAs) with various electron‐withdrawing moieties via a post‐modified strategy. The DASAs‐functionalized COFs exhibit distorted honeycomb layered topology with long‐range periodicity. The DASAs grafted on the skeletons are pointing into the nanopores of COFs, which weakens intermolecular aggregation and ensures sufficient free volume to undergo reversible isomerization between linear and cyclic states. Furthermore, the crystalline and optical properties of COFs as well as the geometrical size and hydrophilicity inside the nanopores were reversibly controlled by alternating visible light irradiation and heat. Finally, methyl violet was used as the cargo molecules to be immobilized into the nanopores of COFs, which showed fast release under controlling of visible light.
The Arab COVID‐19 Anxiety Syndrome Scale (C‐19ASS): COVID‐19 anxiety syndrome and psychological symptoms in the Saudi Arabian population
Authors: Alhakami Amal , Salem Victoria , Alateeq Deemah , Nikčević Ana V. , Marci Tatiana , Palmieri Sara , Spada Marcantonio M. , Mansueto Giovanni
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The COVID‐19 Anxiety Syndrome Scale (C‐19ASS) is a reliable scale assessing dysfunctional coping strategies activated in response to COVID‐19 fear and threat. The present study aimed to provide a validation of the Arabic version of the C‐19ASS and to explore the association between the C‐19ASS and psychological symptoms syndrome.

Method

In Study 1, a community sample of 404 participants completed the Arabic version of the C‐19ASS and results were subjected to an exploratory factor analysis. In Study 2, a community sample of 903 participants completed the Arabic version of the C‐19ASS and a series of measures assessing depressed mood and anhedonia, generalized anxiety and health anxiety. Internal consistency, construct validity and incremental validity were assessed. Associations between C‐19ASS and psychological symptoms were assessed.

Results

Factor analysis identified a two‐factor solution (i.e., C‐19ASS‐Perseveration and C‐19ASS‐Avoidance), and confirmatory factor analysis suggested a two‐factor model best fits the data. The Arabic version of the C‐19ASS showed good internal consistency, good construct and incremental validity. COVID‐19 anxiety syndrome was associated with more severe anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms and health anxiety. Females had higher levels of COVID‐19 anxiety syndrome than males. Participants diagnosed with COVID‐19, and those who had experienced loss as a consequence of COVID‐19, had higher levels of COVID‐19 anxiety syndrome (Perseveration).

Conclusions

The Arabic version of the C‐19ASS appears to be a reliable and valid measure of the COVID‐19 anxiety syndrome. The COVID‐19 anxiety syndrome could be a suitable therapeutic target to improve psychological recovery during the COVID‐19 pandemic among Arabs.
Electron‐Donating and Electron‐Withdrawing Subunit Effects on Coumarin‐BODIPY Dyads: Optical and Electrochemical Properties and Molecular Interactions
Authors: Köksoy Baybars , Özdemir Mücahit , Altınışık Sinem , Zorlu Yunus , Yalçın Bahattin , Durmuş Mahmut , Koyuncu Sermet
Published: May 2023

In this study, a series of coumarin‐BODIPY molecules were synthesized using a Sonogashira cross‐linking reaction. The effects of electron withdrawing and electron donating moieties on electrochemical and optical properties were supported by results of density functional theory calculations, and energy transfer mechanisms were investigated. The band gap value decreased from 2.0 eV to 1.6 eV due to reversible oxidation of the extra dimethylamino subunit at lower potential. Besides, characteristics of the crystal structures were investigated with single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, and crystallinity was supported by differential scanning calorimetry. In addition, when the thin film surface morphologies were examined, it was clearly observed that the N,N‐dimethylamino group on the coumarin‐BODIPY dyad (B3) formed large‐scale domains due to its crystalline behavior. As a result, Förster‐type energy transfer was observed for coumarin‐BODIPY dyads containing different electron withdrawing and donating subunits.
PhAT: A Flexible Open‐Source GUI‐Driven Toolkit for Photometry Analysis
Authors: Murphy Kathleen Z. , Haile Eyobel D. , McTigue Anna D. , Pierce Anne F. , Donaldson Zoe R.
Published: May 2023

Photometry approaches detect sensor‐mediated changes in fluorescence as a proxy for rapid molecular changes within the brain. As a flexible technique with a relatively low cost to implement, photometry is rapidly being incorporated into neuroscience laboratories. Yet, although multiple data acquisition systems for photometry now exist, robust analytical pipelines for the resulting data remain limited. Here we present the Photometry Analysis Toolkit (PhAT)—a free open‐source analysis pipeline that provides options for signal normalization, incorporation of multiple data streams to align photometry data with behavior and other events, calculation of event‐related changes in fluorescence, and comparison of similarity across fluorescent traces. A graphical user interface (GUI) enables use of this software without prior coding knowledge. In addition to providing foundational analytical tools, PhAT is designed to readily incorporate community‐driven development of new modules for more bespoke analyses, and enables data to be easily exported to enable subsequent statistical testing and/or code‐based analyses. In addition, we provide recommendations regarding technical aspects of photometry experiments, including sensor selection and validation, reference signal considerations, and best practices for experimental design and data collection. We hope that the distribution of this software and protocols will lower the barrier to entry for new photometry users and improve the quality of collected data, increasing transparency and reproducibility in photometry analyses. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Software and environment installation

Alternate Protocol 1: Software and environment update

Basic Protocol 2: GUI‐driven fiber photometry analysis

Support Protocol 1: Examining signal quality

Support Protocol 2: Interacting with graphs

Basic Protocol 3: Adding modules to PhAT

Alternate Protocol 2: Creating functions for use in Jupyter Notebook
Improved Low‐Temperature Hydrogen Production from Aqueous Methanol Based on Synergism between Cationic Pt and Interfacial Basic LaOx
Authors: Mori Kohsuke , Shimoji Yuki , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: May 2023

Aqueous phase reforming of methanol (APRM) is simple, inexpensive and provides a high hydrogen gravimetric density of 18.8 wt. %, and so is superior to traditional gas‐phase reactions performed at relatively high temperatures. In the present work, the interface between Pt nanoparticles and a TiN support was modified using a highly dispersed amorphous LaOx phase. The resulting Pt/LaOx/TiO(N) exhibited enhanced activity and long‐term stability during the APRM reaction under base‐free conditions compared with Pt catalysts supported on unmodified TiN or crystalline La2O3. The interfacial amorphous LaOx phase promoted the deposition of small Pt nanoparticles having a narrow size distribution, and also generated electron‐deficient Pt. An assessment of kinetic isotope data and theoretical investigations demonstrated that the cationic Pt nanoparticles facilitated the cleavage of O−H and C−H bonds in methanol while the amorphous LaOx enhanced the dissociation of water, thus enabling the water‐gas shift reaction under mild conditions.
Process Development of Heterogeneous Rh Catalyzed Carbene Transfer Reactions Under Continuous Flow Conditions
Authors: Bayrakdar Tahani A. C. A. , Lescot Camille
Published: May 2023

A very simple Rh‐based catalyst operates under heterogeneous flow conditions for the carbene transfer of methyl diazoacetate (MDA) with several substrates. Two different methods for heterogenizing the catalyst in a column reactor have been applied. Different X−H (X=O, S, Si, CH2) were successfully functionalized by the carbene and cyclopropenation was performed under very mild continuous flow conditions. Following these promising results, catalyst recycling experiments using both methodologies were conducted in which up to 5 catalytic cycles have been achieved for the carbene O−H insertion reaction and interestingly, a sequential transformation of different substrates with up to 10 consecutive runs per reactor were achieved with no loss in the catalytic activity, thus allowing the production of families of compounds.
Design of SEU and DNU‐resistant SRAM cells based on polarity reinforcement feature
Authors: Bai Na , Chen Zihan , Xu Yaohua , Wang Yi , Zhou Yueliang , Lin Zeyuan
Published: May 2023

As the scale of the integrated circuit increases, the distance between transistors decreases, a trend that reduces the critical charge of the sensitive nodes of the memory cell. Consequently, Static Random Access Memory cells in high radiation environments are very prone to soft errors. A novel radiation‐hardened memory cell, the Polarity Reinforcement Feature (PRF)‐18T, is proposed in this paper, which uses the polarity reinforcement feature to reduce the number of sensitive nodes in the memory cell and can entirely and effectively tolerate single event upset and double node upset. A comparison is made in this paper with DICE‐12T, Quatro‐10T, SEA‐14T, RHBD‐14T, NASA‐13T, and SCCS‐18T memory cells in a simulation environment with Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation 55 nm process, the supply voltage of 1.2 V, and temperature of 25°C. In comparison, the PRF‐18T proposed in this paper has the highest critical charge value, improving by more than 15× and 3.1× compared to the DICE‐12T and RHBD‐14T, respectively, and by more than 79% and 17.6% compared to the Quatro‐10T and SEA‐14T, respectively. In the high hold static noise margin comparison, the improvement over the SEA‐14T, DICE‐12T, RHBD‐14T, and Quatro‐10T is 26.7%, 3.8×, 1.5×, and 1.2×, respectively. In the write static noise margin comparison, the results were similar to the Quatro‐10T, DICE‐12T, and SEA‐14T, with a 68.5% improvement compared to the RHBD‐14T. Finally, the robustness of the proposed cell to process, voltage, and temperature variations is verified by temperature change experiments and 2000 Monte Carlo model simulations.
Integrating multiple sign types to improve occupancy estimation for inconspicuous species
Authors: Goldman Mia R. , Shinderman Matthew , Jeffress Mackenzie R. , Rodhouse Thomas J. , Shoemaker Kevin T.
Published: May 2023

Standard occupancy models enable unbiased estimation of occupancy by accounting for observation errors such as missed detections (false negatives) and, less commonly, incorrect detections (false positives). Occupancy models are fitted to data from repeated site visits in which surveyors record evidence of species presence. Use of indirect sign (e.g., scat, tracks) as evidence of presence can vastly improve survey efficiency for inconspicuous species but can also introduce additional sources of error. We developed a “multi‐sign” occupancy approach to model the detection process separately for unique sign types and used this method to improve estimates of occupancy dynamics for an inconspicuous species, the American pika (Ochotona princeps). We investigated how estimates of pika occupancy and environmental drivers differed under four increasingly realistic representations of the observation process: (1) perfect detection (commonly assumed for modeling pika occupancy), (2) standard occupancy model (single observation process without possibility of false detection), (3) multi‐sign with no false detections (non‐false positive model), and (4) multi‐sign with false detections (full model). For the multi‐sign occupancy models, we modeled the detection of each sign type (fresh scat, fresh haypiles, pika calls, and pika sightings) separately as a function of climatic and environmental covariates. Estimates of occupancy processes and inferences about environmental drivers were sensitive to different detection models. Simplified representations of the detection processes generally resulted in higher occupancy estimates and higher turnover rates than the full multi‐sign model. Environmental drivers also varied in their influence on occupancy models, where (e.g.) forb cover was estimated to more strongly influence occupancy in the full multi‐sign model than the simpler models. As has been reported previously in other contexts, unmodeled heterogeneity in the observation process can lead to biases in occupancy processes and uncertainty in the relationships between occupancy and environmental covariates. Overall, our multi‐sign approach to dynamic occupancy modeling, which accounts for spatio‐temporal variation in reliability among sign types, has strong potential to generate more realistic estimates of occupancy dynamics for inconspicuous species.
Potential distribution of the spring ephemeral plant Adonis amurensis in Northeast China under future climate change
Authors: Wang Yanlin , Liu Huanchu , Yu Shuai , Huang Yanqing , Zhang Yue , He Xingyuan , Chen Wei
Published: May 2023

Adonis amurensis Regel et Radde is an early spring plant in northeastern China that has great ornamental value because it blooms before other plants have sprouted. It has not been used to its full potential due to environmental restrictions on its growth. It will be extremely important for its application to comprehend the possible habitat of A. amurensis and the critical environmental factors controlling its distribution under current and future climatic scenarios. In this work, two climate change scenarios of 2041–2060 and 2081–2100 were utilized to predict the suitable habitat of A. amurensis. The results showed that the suitable habitat was mainly distributed along the Changbai Mountains, with a total area of 303,090 km2, and the potential and high‐potential habitat area were 141,218 and 161,872 km2, respectively. In the future climate scenarios, the suitable habitat of A. amurensis was still distributed along the Changbai Mountains, but the area was reduced. In ssp126 and ssp585 scenarios of 2041–2060 and 2081–2100, the area was reduced by 7.13% and 22.34% and 18.66% and 8.09%, respectively. The reduced suitable habitat was mainly located in central Heilongjiang (southeastern Xiao Xing'an Ling), central Jilin, and northeastern Liaoning. The suitable habitat was significantly influenced by precipitation, mainly affected by annual precipitation, followed by precipitation seasonality, soil surface pH, and slope. The results of this study can serve as empirical support for the artificial cultivation, ecological restoration, and long‐term use of A. amurensis.
Recruiting in Sub‐Saharan Africa: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: May 2023

I consider that Africa is simply the central global, essential continent because it is here that the contemporary challenges collide. It is in Africa that part of the tipping of the world will be played.

Emmanuel Macron, France's president, 2017
Study on the influence of expansive soil slope on bridge foundation under excavation and rainfall conditions
Authors: Yang Li‐gong , Ji Wen‐dong , Zhang Yu‐ting
Published: May 2023

Expansive soil is a kind of special soil that mainly composes of hydrophilic minerals and has significant deformation characteristics of water absorption expansion and water loss shrinkage. The characteristics often bring great harms to engineering construction. Relying on the bridge foundation on the expansive soil slope of the Yangtze‐to‐Huaihe Water Diversion Project, this study simulates the humidity field with temperature field for expansive soil using the numerical simulation method when short‐term or long‐term rainfall occurs during slope excavation. The horizontal deformation of bridge foundation on expansive soil slope considering four factors such as self‐weight of slope soil, excavation unloading rebound, hygroscopic expansion of expansive soil, and decrease of soil strength caused by change of water content was studied herein. The research results show that during the excavation process, the bridge foundation produces a horizontal displacement towards the top of the slope, and the rainfall after excavation introduces a decrease to the horizontal displacement of the bridge foundation and gradually develops in the opposite direction. During the excavation process, the rebound of slope excavation is the main factor affecting the horizontal displacement of the bridge foundation. Under short‐term rainfall conditions, the hygroscopic expansion of the slope soil becomes the main influencing factor. Under long‐term rainfall conditions, the main influencing factors of horizontal deformation of bridge foundation are the self‐weight of slope soil and the decrease of soil's strength.
Combination of HPLC–orbitrap‐MS/MS and network pharmacology to identify the anti‐inflammatory phytochemicals in the coffee leaf extracts
Authors: Mei Suhuan , Chen Xiumin
Published: May 2023

In this study, we investigated the phytochemical compositions and the associated anti‐inflammatory activity of coffee leaf fractions prepared by sequential solvent extraction using high‐performance liquid chromatography–orbitrap‐tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–orbitrap‐MS/MS) combined with network pharmacology. The results showed that the ethyl acetate fraction (EAC‐L) had the highest nitric oxide (NO), ABTS, and DPPH free radical scavenging abilities due to the higher concentrations of mangiferin, rutin, 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid (3,5‐diCQA), and 4,5‐diCQA. The extraction solvents had the greatest impact on the anti‐inflammatory activity of coffee leaf fractions, whereas the processing method had the most significant effect on the antioxidant activity of these fractions. Untargeted metabolomics analysis using HPLC–orbitrap‐MS/MS indicated that palmitic acid, 3,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde, and caffeic acid may be involved in the anti‐inflammatory activity of EAC‐L fraction obtained from fresh coffee leaves. On the other hand, processed coffee leaf fraction exhibited anti‐inflammatory activity that was attributed to the presence of 9S,13R‐12‐oxophytodienoic acid, pinocembrin, and quercetin, which have high degree values associated with the inflammation network. Gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment of network pharmacology analysis showed that these 35 differential compounds in the coffee leaf fractions affect cell transcription, apoptosis, phosphorylation, NO synthesis, phosphatidylinositide 3‐kinases‐protein kinase B (PI3K‐Akt) signaling pathway, focal adhesion, hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1, hepatitis, cancer, and so on. This result indicated that coffee leaf extract may also function as an inhibitor for inflammation‐related cancers. The findings of our research are valuable in guiding the extraction of anti‐inflammatory components from coffee leaves.
Effect of the mixture of oleaster (E. angustifolia L.) and black cumin (Nigella sativa) flours as functional compounds on the quality characteristics of toast bread
Authors: Ghadarloo Saba , Mansouripour Samar , Saremnezhad Solmaz
Published: May 2023

The present study was conducted to evaluate the addition of a mixture of oleaster (OL; E. angustifolia L.) and black cumin (BC; Nigella sativa) flours on the quality characteristics of toast bread. The concentration of OL and BC mixture (1:1 w/w ratio) was 0 (T1), 1.5% (T2), 2% (T3), and 2.5% (T4) of total flour content. The bread samples containing the mixture of OL and BC flours had more protein content (8.49%–9.65%) than the control (6.81%; p < .05). The highest phenolic compounds and DPPH free radical scavenging capacity were observed in T4 and T3 samples, respectively. The OL and BC flours decreased the brightness, yellowness, and chroma and increased the redness compared to the control. The mixed flour concentration influenced the bread's hardness and chewiness. Adding OL and BC flours increased the calcium content in the bread (467.65–600.41 ppm) compared to the control (363.9 ppm; p < .05). The OL and BC flour mixture created a more compact texture in the bread samples. In the sensory evaluation, there was not a significant difference between the overall acceptability of the bread containing the mixture of OL and BC flours and the control (p > .05). Finally, it is recommended to utilize a mixture of 2% of OL and BC flours in toast bread to improve its nutritional properties.
Improving the quality of the chicken fillet using chitosan, gelatin, and starch coatings incorporated with bitter orange peel extract during refrigeration
Authors: Azizkhani Maryam , Kavosi Sara , Partovi Razieh
Published: May 2023

The preserving potential of biopolymer coatings can be improved by adding natural antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of natural coatings (gelatin (Gel), chitosan (Ch), and modified starch (MS)) incorporated with bitter orange peel extract (BOE) on the quality of the chicken fillets during cold. BOE had a high amount of phenolic compounds (145.28 mgGAE/g). Coating the fillets with pure BOE exerted a higher inhibitory effect against bacterial growth compared to composite coatings without extract. Lower microbial count (2–3 log CFU/g on days 9 and 12 of storage) was observed in the samples coated with composite biopolymers incorporated with BOE in comparison to the coatings without BOE. Composite coatings of Gel/MS/BOE showed lower FFA in the fillets followed by Gel/Ch/BOE and MS/Ch/BOE. The lowest TVB‐N belonged to MS/Ch/BOE followed by Gel/Ch/BOE and Gel/MS/BOE which were 17.05, 17.39, and 19.40 mg/100 g at the end of the storage. Among the samples, pure BOE, Gel/MS/BOE, Gel/Ch/BOE, and MS/Ch/BOE showed the lowest peroxide value and the coatings containing chitosan had a slower rate of hydroperoxide generation. Drip loss showed a descending trend in all coated samples except for an enhancement in control and BOE‐coated fillets, 6.42% and 6.39%, respectively, on day 12 of storage. Samples coated with Gel/MS and Gel/MS/BOE had the lowest drip loss during the storage period (5.96% and 5.98%, respectively). It should be noted that coatings containing chitosan had higher antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. The effect of the coatings as antimicrobial barriers and preservative agents were as follows: Gel/Ch/BOE > MS/Ch/BOE > Gel/MS/BOE. It can be concluded that the applied composite coatings in this work have a high potential to maintain and improve the quality of raw chicken fillets during storage in the refrigerator.
Cookies enriched with anethole and secoisolariciresinol diglucoside from flaxseed and fennel seeds improve hypercholesterolemia, lipid profile, and liver functions: A pilot study
Authors: Noreen Sana , Tufail Tabussam , Tufail Tanazzam , Bader Ul Ain Huma , Jaffar Hafiza Madiha , Awuchi Chinaza Godswill
Published: May 2023

Over millennia, flaxseeds and fennel seeds have captured greater attention owing to the broad spectrum of bioactive compounds and their respective therapeutic potential. They are well‐known therapeutic plants, frequently used in home treatments for a variety of medical conditions. The novelty of this pilot study is to assess the beneficial health effects of secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) and anethole‐based enriched cookies among hyperlipidemic patients. The result of sensory evaluation revealed that cookies with anethole and SDG (500 + 500 mg/day) were significantly acceptable in terms of color, texture, taste, and overall acceptability same as that of control. This study was performed among 34 patients with hyperlipidemia in a university‐affiliated hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. In this study, patients received dietary supplementation with anethole and SDG (500 + 500 mg/day) administered in cookies for 8 weeks. Patients were assigned into two groups, intervention (receiving anethole + SDG‐enriched cookies; n = 16) and placebo (n = 18), for 8 weeks. Both groups maintained the same diet and lifestyle. Pre‐ and postintervention weight, lipid profile, and liver enzyme levels were measured. Analysis of covariance and paired sample t‐test were used for comparing the two groups. After 8 weeks, a significant mean weight loss was observed in the intervention group (4.26%) as compared to the placebo group (0.3%). A significant reduction of TC (177.02 ± 5.14 mg/dL; p = .024), TG (150.19 ± 7.94 mg/dL; p = .032), and LDL (87.38 ± 3.58 mg/dL; p = .001) were compared to the control group and HDL level (57.09 ± 3.90 mg/dL; p = .035) were increased in the intervention group as compared to the placebo. Meanwhile, it had a minor improvement in AST (30.97 ± 2.95 U/L; p = .01), ALT (33.05 ± 1.52 U/L; p = .025), and ALP (112.15 ± 4.03 U/L; p = .03) among the intervention group. Thus, based on the results from the study, it can be said that anethole + SDG‐enriched bakery products could be developed as a functional dietary option for hyperlipidemia in developing countries like Pakistan.
Astrocytic A2A receptors silencing negatively impacts hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory of adult mice
Authors: Madeira Daniela , Lopes Cátia R. , Simões Ana P. , Canas Paula M. , Cunha Rodrigo A. , Agostinho Paula
Published: May 2023

Astrocytes are wired to bidirectionally communicate with neurons namely with synapses, thus shaping synaptic plasticity, which in the hippocampus is considered to underlie learning and memory. Adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR) are a potential candidate to modulate this bidirectional communication, since A2AR regulate synaptic plasticity and memory and also control key astrocytic functions. Nonetheless, little is known about the role of astrocytic A2AR in synaptic plasticity and hippocampal‐dependent memory. Here, we investigated the impact of genetic silencing astrocytic A2AR on hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory of adult mice. The genetic A2AR silencing in astrocytes was accomplished by a bilateral injection into the CA1 hippocampal area of a viral construct (AAV5‐GFAP‐GFP‐Cre) that inactivate A2AR expression in astrocytes of male adult mice carrying “floxed” A2AR gene, as confirmed by A2AR binding assays. Astrocytic A2AR silencing alters astrocytic morphology, typified by an increment of astrocytic arbor complexity, and led to deficits in spatial reference memory and compromised hippocampal synaptic plasticity, typified by a reduction of LTP magnitude and a shift of synaptic long‐term depression (LTD) toward LTP. These data indicate that astrocytic A2AR control astrocytic morphology and influence hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory of adult mice in a manner different from neuronal A2AR.
Delivering yoga to people with hypertension in the UK: A qualitative study to explore yoga providers' knowledge, experiences, and attitudes
Authors: Nalbant Gamze , Hassanein Zeinab M. , Lewis Sarah , Chattopadhyay Kaushik
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Yoga has become increasingly popular in the world and the UK for improving health and well‐being. A growing body of research suggests that yoga could be used to improve the management of hypertension in addition to current management strategies. Previous cross‐sectional studies have also reported that hypertension is one of the most commonly disclosed health conditions in yoga sessions in the United Kingdom. Therefore, semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with yoga providers in the United Kingdom (n = 19) to explore their knowledge, experiences, and attitudes toward delivering yoga to people with hypertension.

Methods

Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically.

Results

Eight themes were identified. Yoga providers were generally aware of the health conditions of their attendees, and they had a reasonable knowledge of the causes, signs and symptoms, and management of hypertension. While most had received some information about hypertension as part of their initial yoga teaching training, this was generally felt to be limited. They mentioned the biopsychosocial benefits of yoga on hypertension but also expressed their concerns about the lack of regulation, the wide disparity in what is being delivered under the label of yoga, and the competency of some yoga providers.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that yoga provision in the United Kingdom should be regulated with a better link with health service providers. A manual and training for yoga providers in the United Kingdom for managing hypertension using yoga would be helpful to address the training needs of yoga providers. However, there is a need for more robust studies before recommending the implementation of yoga in the management of hypertension in the United Kingdom.
Development of 8‐h urine collections and an augmented renal clearance dosing program at an academic medical center
Authors: Gerlach Anthony T. , Hoyte Brittany R. , Cotten Steven W. , Doepker Bruce A. , Murphy Claire V. , Reed Erica E. , Smetana Keaton S. , Wardlow Lynn
Published: May 2023

Ensuring appropriate dosing of medications is an essential practice of clinical pharmacists. Dose adjustments in the setting of decreased renal function are common but may also be warranted for patients with supraphysiologic or augmented renal clearance (ARC). Conventional estimates of creatinine clearance using only serum creatinine may not be accurate in the setting of ARC, thus a measured creatinine clearance using serum and urine creatinine measurements are preferred. We describe the development of an 8‐h urine collection and ARC dosing program at a large academic medical center initiated by critical care and infectious disease pharmacists. Using a Plan–Do–Study–Act approach, we implemented and updated the 8‐h collection program with the guidance of our clinical laboratories. Eight‐hour urine collections are useful for patients with suspected ARC and for other scenarios where accurate dose adjustments are needed to minimize toxicity in the absence of therapeutic drug monitoring.
Petite Integration Factor 1 knockdown enhances gemcitabine sensitivity in pancreatic cancer cells via increasing DNA damage
Authors: Wang Kun , Hua Xiangdong , Fu Xibo , Hao Zhiqiang , Jiao Ao , Li Siyuan
Published: May 2023

Chemoresistance is still a vital obstacle in various tumors chemotherapy. This study aimed to explore the role of Petite Integration Factor 1 (PIF1) in the sensitivity of gemcitabine response to pancreatic cancer cells. Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database was employed for evaluating the level of PIF1 in pancreatic cancer tissues and normal tissues. The mRNA level of PIF1 was detected via reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) analysis. The relative protein expression of PIF1, cleaved caspase‐3, and phosphorylated histone H2Ax (γH2Ax) was assessed through western blot. Cell viability and apoptosis were assessed via Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Moreover, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and caspase‐3 activity were determined via the corresponding LDH Cytotoxicity Assay Kit and caspase‐3 colorimetric assay kit. PIF1 expression was upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells. Knockdown of PIF1 exhibited the repressive impact on the viability of AsPC‐1 and PANC‐1 cells. PIF1 knockdown enhanced LDH release and apoptosis in both AsPC‐1 and PANC‐1 cells. PIF1 downregulation could augment the sensitivity of gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer cells, as evidenced by lower cell viability and higher LDH release and apoptosis rate after knocking down PIF1 in gemcitabine‐treated pancreatic cancer cells relative to pancreatic cancer cells treated with gemcitabine alone. Moreover, PIF1 knockdown increased γH2Ax protein expression and DNA damage, and gemcitabine treatment‐induced DNA damage in AsPC‐1 and PANC‐1 cells was exacerbated by PIF1 silencing. Furthermore, gemcitabine treatment‐caused increase of DNA damage was alleviated by PIF1 overexpression; whereas, this effect of PIF1 upregulation was reversed by thymidine, a DNA synthesis inhibitor. In addition, the decreased gemcitabine sensitivity response to pancreatic cancer cells caused by PIF1 upregulation was also hindered by thymidine treatment. In conclusion, PIF1 silencing enhanced gemcitabine sensitivity response to pancreatic cancer cells through aggrandizing DNA damage.
The protective effect of p‐Coumaric acid on hepatic injury caused by particulate matter in the rat and determining the role of long noncoding RNAs MEG3 and HOTAIR
Authors: Moradi Mojtaba , Mard Seyyed A. , Farbood Yaghoob , Dianat Mahin , Goudarzi Gholamreza , Khorsandi Layasadat , Seyedian Seyed S.
Published: May 2023

Increasing air pollution is associated with serious human health problems. P‐coumaric acid (PC) is a herbal phenolic compound that exhibits beneficial pharmacological potentials. Here, the protective effect of PC on liver injury induced by air pollution was examined. Thirty‐two adult male Wistar rats (200‐250 g) were divided randomly into four groups (n = 8). The groups were; Control (rats received DMSO and then exposed to clean air), PC (rats received PC and then exposed to clean air), DMSO + Dust (rats received DMSO and then exposed to dust), and PC + Dust (the animals received PC and then exposed to dust). The clean air, DMSO, PC, and dust were administrated 3 days a week for 6 consecutive weeks. The rats were anesthetized and their blood samples and liver sections were taken to conduct molecular, biomedical, and histopathological tests. Dust exposure increased the liver enzymes, bilirubin, triglyceride, cholesterol, and the production of liver malondialdehyde, and decreased in liver total anti‐oxidant capacity and serum high‐density lipoprotein. It also increased the mRNA expression of inflammatory‐related cytokines, decreased the mRNA expression of SIRT‐1, decreased the expression levels of miR‐20b5p, and MEG3 while increased the expression levels of miR‐34a, and HOTAIR. Dust exposure also increased the liver content of three cytokines TNF‐α, NF‐κB, HMGB‐1, and ATG‐7 proteins. PC enhanced liver function against adverse effects of dust through recovering almost all the studied variables. Exposure to dust damaged the liver through induction of oxidative stress, inflammation, and autophagy. PC protected the liver against dust‐induced cytotoxicity.
DFT potentials from a chemical perspective: Anatomy of electron (de)localization in molecules and crystals
Authors: Levina Elena O. , Tsirelson Vladimir G.
Published: May 2023

We introduce a fermionic potential, , as a comprehensive measure of electron (de)localization in atomic‐molecular systems. Unlike other common descriptors as ELF, LOL, etc., it characterizes all physical effects responsible for (de)localization of electrons, namely: an exchange hole depth, its tendency to change, a sensitivity of an exchange correlation hidden in a pair density and kinetic potential to local variations in electron density. Wells in the distribution correspond to the domains of maximum electron localization, while the potential's barriers prevent delocalization of electrons through them. It also estimates bond orders and successfully reveals the impact of chemical modifications or environmental effects on the delocalization of electrons in molecules and crystals. The components provide a unique opportunity to compare the influence of the mentioned physical effects on electron (de)localization. This merges physical and chemical views of electron delocalization using functions appearing in density functional theory.
Clinical and laboratory genetic counseling assistants: Comparing background experiences, responsibilities, satisfaction, and career goals
Authors: Gagne Cassidy , Geiser Katelyn , Danylchuk Noelle R. , Jin Jing , McWalter Kirsty
Published: May 2023

Understanding the responsibilities, qualifications, future plans, and contributions of genetic counseling assistants (GCAs) across all work settings could aid in establishing a scope of practice, advocating for creation of GCA positions, and informing future education and training for GCAs and genetic counselors. We compared laboratory and clinical GCA responsibilities, sources of job satisfaction, background experience, and career goals. Sixty‐five laboratory and 73 clinical GCAs participated in this study by completing an online survey. Most participants had a Bachelor of Science/Arts and aspired to become genetic counselors (GCs). Clinical GCAs had more interaction with patients, whereas laboratory GCAs had more interaction with ordering providers and little to no patient contact. On a scale from 0 (not at all satisfied) to 10 (extremely satisfied), clinical GCAs had statistically significant higher satisfaction ratings (M = 8.56, SD = 1.42) than laboratory GCAs (M = 7.35, SD = 1.82, U = 3346, p = 0.001). While most participants were GCAs for 13–18 months, laboratory GCAs stayed in their positions (19–24 months, n = 20, 30.8%) for significantly longer than clinical GCAs (7–12 months, n = 21, 28.8%, X2(5) = 12.799, p = 0.025). GCAs noted increases in their knowledge and new skill development, though we also identified responsibilities for which they did not feel qualified. The results of this study can potentially help define a GCA scope of practice with data regarding background experiences and responsibilities. In addition, GCA employers may use the results to retain GCAs by addressing satisfaction issues, providing appropriate training, and adjusting roles. GC training program directors can use the results to manage expectations of applicants with GCA experience and inform training and curriculum needs based on the composition of a GC class.
Evaluating attributes of a collaborative model of service delivery for hereditary cancer risk assessment
Authors: Cohen Stephanie A. , Nixon Dawn M.
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this nonrandomized study was to compare several attributes of hereditary cancer risk assessment using a collaborative model of service delivery. Arm 1 included patients seen in‐person by a board‐certified genetic counselor (CGC), Arm 2 included high‐complexity triaged patients from distant sites who received telegenetics with a CGC, and Arm 3 included low‐complexity triaged patients from distant sites who had in‐person risk assessment with a locally placed genetic counselor extender (GCE). A total of 152 patients consented and 98 had complete data available for analysis (35 in Arm 1, 33 in Arm 2, and 30 in Arm 3). The three groups were comparable in age, ethnicity, education, employment, and cancer status. There was no significant difference in median wait time or distance traveled to receive care across all three arms. However, if patients in Arms 2 and 3 had to access the CGC in‐person, they would have had to travel significantly further (p < 0.0001). The time spent in a session was significantly longer in Arm 3 with a GCE than with a CGC in‐person or by telegenetics (p < 0.01). There was no difference in the number of essential elements covered in the appointment, change in cancer worry, or appointment satisfaction across all three arms, although the sample size was small. Employing a collaborative model of service delivery with GCEs and telegenetics is feasible, satisfactory to patients and reduces the distance patients travel to access hereditary cancer genetic services.
Relationship Between Microstructural Alterations and Cognitive Decline After Whole‐Brain Radiation Therapy for Brain Metastases: An Exploratory Whole‐Brain MR Analysis Based on Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging
Authors: Zhou Weiwen , Xie Xuyun , Hu Jiamiao , Wang Mengjia , Hu Xiao , Shi Liming , Zhou Chen , Sun Xiaonan
Published: May 2023

Background

Cognitive impairment frequently occurs in patients with brain metastases (BM) after whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT). It is crucial to explore the underlying mechanisms of cognitive impairment in BM patients receiving WBRT.

Purpose

To detect brain microstructural alterations in patients after WBRT by neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), and evaluate the performance of microstructural alterations in predicting cognitive impairment.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Twenty‐six patients (seven female; mean age, 60.9 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, multi‐shell diffusion‐weighted single‐shot echo‐planar sequence. Three‐dimensional magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition with gradient echo sequence.

Assessment

Mini‐mental state examination (MMSE) evaluations were conducted prior to, following, 1 and 3 months after WBRT. The diffusion data were collected twice, 1 week before and 1 week after WBRT. NODDI analysis was conducted to assess microstructural alterations in whole brain (orientation dispersion index, neurite density index, volume fraction of isotropic water molecules). Reliable change indices (RCI) of MMSE were used to measure cognitive decline. The performance of support vector machine models based on NODDI parameters and clinical features (prednisone usage, tumor volume, etc.) in predicting MMSE‐RCI was evaluated.

Statistical Tests

Paired t‐test to assess alterations of NODDI measures and MMSE during follow‐up. Statistical significance level of P‐value <0.05.

Results

Significantly decreased MMSE score was found at 3 months after WBRT. After WBRT, corpus callosum, medial prefrontal cortex, limbic lobe, occipital lobe, parietal lobe, putamen, globus pallidus lentiform, and thalamus demonstrated damage in NODDI parameters. The predicted MMSE‐RCI based on NODDI features was significantly associated with the measured MMSE‐RCI at 1 month (R = 0.573; P = 0.003) and 3 months (R = 0.687; P < 0.0001) after WBRT.

Data Conclusion

Microstructural alterations in several brain regions including the middle prefrontal and limbic cortexes were observed in patients with BM following WBRT, which may contribute to subsequent cognitive decline.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2