bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival outcomes of patients with stage III colorectal cancer aged ≥80 years who underwent curative resection: The HiSCO-04 prospective cohort study
Authors: Mochizuki Tetsuya , Shimomura Manabu , Nakahara Masahiro , Adachi Tomohiro , Ikeda Satoshi , Saito Yasufumi , Shimizu Yosuke , Kochi Masatoshi , Ishizaki Yasuyo , Yoshimitsu Masanori , Takakura Yuji , Shimizu Wataru , Sumitani Daisuke , Kodama Shinya , Fujimori Masahiko , Oheda Mamoru , Kobayashi Hironori , Akabane Shintaro , Yano Takuya , Ohdan Hideki
Published: September 2023

Background The efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy in elderly patients aged ≥ 80 years with stage III colorectal cancer (CRC) who have undergone curative resection remains unclear. In parallel with a multicenter prospective phase II trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of UFT/LV as adjuvant chemotherapy (HiSCO-03), we conducted a prospective observational study of these patients to assess survival outcomes, including patients ineligible for chemotherapy.Methods This multi-institutional prospective cohort study included 17 institutions in Hiroshima, Japan. Patients aged ≥ 80 years with stage III CRC who underwent curative resection were enrolled. The primary endpoint was 3-year disease-free survival (DFS), and the secondary endpoints were 3-year overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS). Propensity score matching was used to assess the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy on survival outcomes.Results A total of 214 patients were analyzed between 2013 and 2018. There were 99 males and 115 females with a median age of 84 years (range: 80–101 years). Recurrence occurred in 58 patients and secondary cancers were observed in 17 patients. The 3-year DFS, OS, and RFS rates were 63.3%, 76.9%, and 62.9%, respectively. Adjuvant chemotherapy was administered to 64 patients with a completion rate of 53%. In a study of 80 patients that adjusted for background factors using propensity score matching, patients who completed the planned treatment showed improved DFS.Conclusions Completion of adjuvant chemotherapy may improve the prognosis of CRC patients aged ≥ 80 years, although the number of patients who would benefit from it is limited.
Effect of novel botanical synergist on the effectiveness and residue behavior of prothioconazole in wheat field
Authors: Wu Yalin , Yin Yuanjian , Chen Xin , Zhou Yeping , Gao Quan
Published: September 2023

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is an important fungal disease which can lead to serious yield losses and mycotoxin contaminations, the Fusarium strains have been found obvious resistance to many fungicides. Development of novel synergist is an important approach for addressing these challenges of postponing the development of pesticide resistance. In this study, the synergistic effect of Taxodium 'zhongshansha' essential oil (TZEO) was determined via the evaluation of synergistic ratio (SR) with three replicators under standard procedures. The best SR of 3.96 in laboratory which was observed when the weight ratio of TZEO and prothioconazole was 1 : 1 with the corresponding EC50 (half maximal effective concentration) value of Fusarium graminearum was 0.280 mg L− 1. Subsequently, an increase of 6.31% on the control effect to FHB index in field test was observed when compared to the treatment with prothioconazole alone, and the mycotoxin contamination was less than the limits of quantifications (LOQs) value satisfied to the detection of these mycotoxins which was 5 µg kg− 1 (DON, ZEN, 3-DON, and 15-DON) and 1 µg kg− 1 (OTA), respectively. It was also shown that the application of 20% TZEO EW led to a 20% reduction at least in the use of prothioconazole, which was calculated based on the control effect values of 86.41% and 90.20% between the treatments of 30% prothioconazole OD (225 g a.i ha− 1, recommend dosage) and 30% prothioconazole OD (180 g a.i ha− 1) + 20% TZEO EW (225 mL ha− 1), significantly. The initial residue of prothioconazole and prothioconazole-desthio was found to in-crease upon treatment with TZEO, which may play an important role in the synergistic effect on FHB. Moreover, none of the treatments posed a prothioconazole residue risk in the wheat grain and the environment. Finally, the essential oil was not found to have any negative influence on wheat growth, which was revealed by a study of the chlorophyll content. These results provide an important botanical synergist for use with prothioconazole to control Fusarium head blight, which will play a creative role to reduce the application of prothioconazole and postpone the development of resistance. Furthermore, in-depth study to the synergistic mechanism of this oil is necessary in our future research.
External validation of the ISARIC 4C Mortality Score for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in Tunisia
Authors: Ali Khaoula Bel Haj , Abdullah Shaima Mohammad , Sekma Adel , Toumia Marwa , Marrakchi Wafa , Toumi Adnen , Mhamed Saoussen Cheikh , Saad Ahmed Ben , Youssef Rym , Zorgati Asma , turkia Hela ben , Ghazali Hanène , Khrouf Mariem , Soltane Houda Ben , Karray Rim , Walha Olfa Chakroun , Boudawara Nadia Keskes , Jaoued Oussama , Mlouki Imen , Sfar Nouha , Atrous Souheil El , M'hammdi Sana , Abroug Hela , Belghith Asma , Chakroun Mohamed , Rouatbi Naceur , Souissi Sami , Rekik Noureddine , Mezgar Zied , Boukef Riadh , Nouira Semir
Published: September 2023

Estimating mortality risk in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 infection may help clinicians to early triage patients with poor prognostic outcome. The Coronavirus Clinical Characterization Consortium Mortality Score (4C Score) is one of the predictive models that was externally validated in large cohorts. However, its use may be limited in population with quite different demographic and epidemiologic features.
Objective
To externally validate the 4 C score in a large Tunisian population
Methods
Multicenter retrospective cohort study of patients aged ≥ 14 years, hospitalized with the diagnosis of COVID-19. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, need for ICU admission and combined outcome (in-hospital mortality and/or ICU admission). We calculated the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (C statistics) for the 4C Mortality Score to assess the discriminatory power of the 4C Mortality Score for predicting outcomes. To assess calibration of the model, we used the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test.
Results
2327 patients with diagnosis of COVID-19 based on positive RT-PCR assay or rapid antigen test of a nasopharyngeal swab were included for final analysis. Median time between symptoms start and hospital admission was 4 days [2-7], and 69.2% needed oxygen therapy at hospital admission. In-hospital mortality was 15.4% (n=358); most deaths (11%, n=257) occurred in the ICU. Mortality rates within the 4C Mortality Score risk groups were 0.6% (Low), 8.7% (Intermediate), 53.1% (High), and 37.7% (Very High). The score achieved a good estimated discrimination when predicting death (C-statistic:0.86; 95%, CI [0.84-0.88]), ICU admission (C-statistic: 0.69; 95%, CI [0.65-0.72]) and the combined outcome (C-statistic:0.79; 95%, CI [0.77-0.81]). The calibration plot indicated good calibration for both in-hospial mortality and combined outcome (HosmerLemeshow goodness-of-fit test p value of 0.86 and 0.28 respectively).
Our study represents a new external validation of the 4C score in COVID-19 patients with high reliability in predicting disease severity. These findings imply that the 4C Mortality Score may be generalized to patients with COVID-19 regardless of ethnicity and healthcare system.
Prevalence of hepatitis B infection: Knowledge and practice toward Hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Adwa town, North Ethiopia
Authors: Tlahun Berhe , Gebreyesus Hailay , Gidey Tsehaynesh , Welu Guesh , Shfare Mebrahtu Teweldemedhin , Hagos Selemun , Nigatu Dabere , Feleke Berhanu
Published: September 2023

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and 100 times contagious than HIV. Mother to child transmission leads to chronic infections and remain as public health threat. There is scarce study about prevalence of HBsAg; knowledge and practice of pregnant women regarding HBV infection in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess prevalence HBsAg; level of knowledge and practice toward HBV infection among pregnant women in Adwa town.
Methods: Facility based cross sectional study was employed among 337 pregnant women attending antenatal care clinics from March 28 to May 4, 2017 in Adwa town. Pregnant mothers were selected consecutively. Data was collected using a pre tested questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine association between independent and the outcome variable. P value less than 0.05 at 95% confidence interval were used for statistical significance.
Results: The overall seroprevalence of HBsAg among pregnant mothers was 3.9% (95%CI: 1.8-6.2). Education of Pregnant mothers (secondary school and above) (AOR=2.3, 95%CI: 1.2-4.7) and Occupation of pregnant mothers (employed pregnant mothers) (AOR=2.5, 95%CI: 1.5-4.3) were independently associated with knowledge score of pregnant mother toward HBV infection transmission. Occupation of pregnant mothers (employed pregnant mothers (AOR=4.4:95%:1.5-12.0), age group 31-41years old pregnant mothers (AOR=3.7:95%CI: 1.3-10.7) and knowledge score of pregnant mothers (AOR=1.3, 95%CI: 1.2-1.5) were independently associated with good preventive technique pregnant mothers toward HBV infection.
Conclusion: The seroprevalence of HBsAg among pregnant mothers was intermediate endemic. Education and occupation status of pregnant mothers was factors with the knowledge score of pregnant mothers toward HBV infection transmission. Therefore, sustainable community based health education intervention about HBV transmission and prevention is important to raising awareness among pregnant mothers.
Social patterning of childhood overweight in the national ELFE cohort
Authors: Gal Camille Le , Lecorguillé Marion , Poncet Lorraine , Cissé Aminata-Hallimat , Gassama Malamine , Simeon Thierry , Lanoë Jean-Louis , Melchior Maria , Bernard Jonathan Yoan , Charles Marie-Aline , Heude Barbara , Lioret Sandrine
Published: September 2023

An inverse social gradient in early childhood overweight has been consistently described in high-income countries; however, less is known about the role of migration status. We aimed to study the social patterning of overweight in preschool children according to the mother’s socio-economic and migration background. For 9,250 children of the French ELFE birth cohort with body mass index collected at 3.5 years, we used nested logistic regression to investigate the association of overweight status in children (IOTF definition) with maternal educational level, occupation, household income and migration status. Overall, 8.3% (95%CI: [7.7–9.0]) of children were classified with overweight. The probability of overweight was increased for children from immigrant and descendants of immigrant mothers (OR 2.22 [95%CI 1.75–2.78] and 1.35 [1.04–2.78]) versus non-immigrant mothers. The highest probability of overweight was also observed in children whose mothers had low education, were unemployed or students, or from households in the lowest income quintile. Our findings confirm that socio-economic disadvantage and migration status are risk factors for childhood overweight. However, the social patterning of overweight did not apply uniformly to all variables. These new and comprehensive insights should inform future public health interventions aimed at tackling social inequalities in childhood overweight.
Successful development of a unique anther culture protocol for the production of doubled haploids in Hot Pepper
Authors: Misal Sachin , Das Arunava
Published: September 2023

Hot pepper ranks seventh among the most produced vegetables in the world. This crop is famous for its color and pungency. Hot pepper contains many important phytonutrients that enable it to fight against cancer. Conventional breeding in Hot Pepper is labor-consuming and a long-term process. This can be overcome by using novel approaches, such as, in vitro doubled haploid plant production. This method not only accelerate breeding programs but also facilitates recovery of recessive mutations. There are many articles published on doubled haploid development in Capsicum annuum; it reports both anther culture and shed-microspore culture methods, but both these methods require either subculture of anthers or the addition of new media, which makes both protocols laborious. The present study aims to develop a single-step direct embryogenesis protocol to produce doubled haploids in Capsicum annuum. We analyzed effectiveness of microspore embryogenesis on ten Hot pepper genotypes with six media combinations including shed-microspore culture protocol (Supena et.al 2006) and two-step anther culture protocol (Dumas de vaulx et.al 1981 and Para-Vega et.al 2016). Among six, one media combination responded very well to single-step direct embryogenesis compared to other protocols with more than 20% plant regeneration frequency. We observed an average embryogenesis of 7.53% and plant regeneration frequency of 3.81%. We achieved a survival index of 97.61% after acclimatization of plants in the polyhouse. The results of these experiments show that, one-step direct embryogenesis can be achieved with unique combination of plant growth regulators.
Rab32 facilitates Schwann cell pyroptosis in rats following peripheral nerve injury by elevating ROS levels
Authors: Wang Jiayi , Chen Pin , Han Guanjie , Zhou Yongjie , Xiang Xingdong , Lu Shunyi , Bian Mengxuan , Huang Lei , Wang Xiang , He Binfeng , Shi Fengchao
Published: September 2023

Background: Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is commonly observed in clinical practice, yet the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the correlation between the expression of a Ras-related protein Rab32 and pyroptosis in rats following PNI, and potential mechanisms have been explored by which Rab32 may influence Schwann cells pyroptosis and ultimately peripheral nerve regeneration (PNR) through the regulation of Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels.
Methods: The authors investigated the induction of Schwann cell pyroptosis and the elevated expression of Rab32 in a rat model of PNI. In vitro experiments revealed an upregulation of Rab32 during Schwann cell pyroptosis. Furthermore, the effect of Rab32 on the level of ROS in mitochondria in pyroptosis model has also been studied.
Finally, the effects of knocking down the Rab32 gene on PNR were assessed, morphology, sensory and motor functions of sciatic nerves, electrophysiology and immunohistochemical analysis were conducted to assess the therapeutic efficacy.
Results: Silencing Rab32 attenuated PNI-induced Schwann cell pyroptosis and promoted peripheral nerve regeneration. Furthermore, our findings demonstrated that Rab32 induces significant oxidative stress by damaging the mitochondria of Schwann cells in the pyroptosis model in vitro.
Conclusion: Rab32 exacerbated Schwann cell pyroptosis in PNI model, leading to delayed peripheral nerve regeneration. Rab32 can be a potential target for future therapeutic strategy in the treatment of peripheral nerve injuries.
Klotho inhibits IGF1R/PI3K/AKT signalling pathway and protects the heart from oxidative stress during ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Olejnik Agnieszka , Radajewska Anna , Krzywonos-Zawadzka Anna , Bil-Lula Iwona
Published: September 2023

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) of the heart involves the activation of oxidative and proapoptotic pathways. Simultaneously Klotho protein presents anti-aging, antiapoptotic and antioxidative properties. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of Klotho protein on oxidative stress in hearts subjected to IRI. Isolated rat hearts perfused with the Langendorff method were subjected to ischemia, followed by reperfusion, in the presence or absence of recombinant rat Klotho protein. The factors involved in the activation of insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R)/phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signalling pathway were evaluated. IRI caused activation of the IGF1R (p = 0.0122)/PI3K (p = 0.0022) signalling, as compared to the aerobic control group. Infusion supply of Klotho protein during IRI significantly reduced the level of phospho-IGF1R (p = 0.0436), PI3K (p = 0.0218) and phospho-AKT (p = 0.0020). Transcriptional activity of forkhead box protein O3 (FOXO3) was reduced (p = 0.0207) in hearts subjected to IRI, compared to aerobic control. Administration of Klotho decreased phosphorylation of FOXO3 (p = 0.0355), and enhanced activity of glutathione peroxidase (p = 0.0452) and superoxide dismutase (p = 0.0060) in IRI + Klotho group. The levels of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) (p = 0.0480) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (p = 0.0460), and heart injury (p = 0.0005) were significantly increased in hearts from the IRI group in comparison to the aerobic group. Klotho reduced NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) (p = 0.0390), ROS/RNS (p = 0.0435) and H2O2 (p = 0.0392) levels, and heart damage (p = 0.0286) in the hearts subjected to IRI. In conclusion, Klotho contributed to the protection of the heart against IRI and oxidative stress via inhibition of the IGF1R/PI3K/AKT pathway, thus can be recognized as a novel cardiopreventive/cardioprotective agent.
Prenatal stress increases corticosterone levels in offspring by impairing placental glucocorticoid barrier function
Authors: Liu Hong-ya , Wang Rui , Zhu Jia-shu , Li Ye , Li Jia-qi , Yao Gui-xiang , Ma Shu-qin , Guan Su-zhen
Published: September 2023

Background: Exposure to high cortisol levels in fetus of prenatal stress (PS) has adverse effects on growth, which is related to placental glucocorticoid (GC) barrier. DNA methylation is a potential prenatal planning mechanism in embryonic stage, however, the epigenetic regulation of placental GC barrier related genes on the PS resulting higher GC is unclear. This study was to test the hypothesis that PS would elevate cortisol which was associated with GC-related placenta genes (11β-HSD2, P-gp, NR3C1, and FKBP5) based on the DNA methylation.
Method: PS model was established by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). DNA methylation in GC-related genes was analyzed using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) and confirmed results using MethylTarget™ sequencing. The genes expression were subjected to qRT-PCR and Western blot.
Results: Offspring of PS had increased plasma corticosterone levels. GC-related gene (P-gp(abcb1a) and FKBP5) were identified by RRBS. We further verified DNA methylation and gene expression, including 43 differentially methylated sites and 2 differentially methylated regions. We found P-gp was hypermethylation and low expression, FKBP5 was hypermethylation low translational and high transcriptional levels. The expressions of 11β-HSD2 decreased, the NR3C1 mRNA expression was inhibited, and the protein expression increased.
Discussion:This study provides an exploratory result: PS disrupts the placental GC barrier through hypermethylation and aberrant expression of GC-related genes, resulting in high corticosterone level in offspring, affecting growth and development. However, the molecular mechanism by which PS regulates the placental GC barrier remains to be further determined.
Long-term outcomes of robot-assisted versus laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy for rectal prolapse and rectal intussusception
Authors: Albayati Sinan , Badiani Sarit , Ang Zhen Hao , Turner Catherine E , Berney Christophe R , Morgan Matthew J
Published: September 2023

Purpose
The aim of this study is to compare short- and long-term outcomes following robot-assisted (RVR) and laparoscopic (LVR) ventral mesh rectopexy in patients with external rectal prolapse and rectal intussusception.
Methods
All consecutive patients undergoing LVR or RVR between April 2015 and June 2018 were included in this study. Patients were contacted by mail or phone for follow ups at one year, and up to 6 years post surgery. St Mark’s, Cleveland Clinic constipation score (CCCS), and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) were obtained before surgery and at each follow up.
Results
Sixty-one patients had ventral mesh rectopexy, 34 robot-assisted and 27 laparoscopic. Mean operative time was longer in the RVR group compared to LVR (237 vs 182 minutes, P < 0.01). There were three postoperative complications in the LVR group compared to one in the RVR group (11% vs. 3%, P = 0.2). Median length of hospital stay was 2 days in both groups (P = 0.09). Recurrence rate for patients with external rectal prolapse was 10% in both groups (P = 1). Median St Mark’s score, CCCS, and GIQLI significantly improved following both laparoscopic and robot-assisted ventral mesh rectopexy.
Conclusion
Both laparoscopic and robot-assisted ventral mesh rectopexy are safe and effective techniques in patients with external rectal prolapse and rectal intussusception. Except for prolonged operative time with RVR, there are no significant differences in short-term outcomes between the two groups. Both techniques significantly improve, faecal incontinence, obstructed defaecation and quality of life in patients with rectal prolapse and rectal intussusception.
Reducing image artifacts in sparse projection CT using conditional generative adversarial networks
Authors: Usui Keisuke , Kamiyama Sae , Arita Akihiro , Ogawa Koichi , Sakamoto Hajime , Sakano Yasuaki , Kyogoku Shinsuke , Daida Hiroyuki
Published: September 2023

Background: Reducing the amount of projection data in computed tomography (CT), called sparse-view CT, can reduce the exposure dose; however, image artifacts can occur. We quantitatively evaluated the effects of conditional generative adversarial networks (CGAN) on image quality restoration for sparse-view CT using simulated sparse projection images and compared them with autoencoder (AE) and U-Net models.
Methods: To simulate sparse-view CT, we acquired fan-beam projections at rotation angles of 1°, 2°, 5°, and 10° for the chest images (4250 slices). Four types of sinograms with different decimating projections were generated to simulate sparse-view CTs. The AE, U-Net, and CGAN models were trained using pairs of artifacts and original images, with 90% of all data used for training and the remaining for evaluation. Restoration of CT value was evaluated using mean error (ME) and mean absolute error (MAE). The image quality was evaluated using structural image similarity (SSIM) and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR).
Results: Organ structures were restored up to a sparse projection of 2°; however, slight deformation in tumor and spine regions was observed, with a dispersed projection of over 5°. Image resolution decreased, and blurring occurred in AE and U-Net; therefore, large deviations in ME and MAE were observed in lung and air regions, and the results of SSIM and PSNR were degraded.
Conclusions: The CGAN demonstrated higher image reproducibility than AE and U-Net, particularly for accurate CT value restoration. However, over a decimation angle of 5°, the accuracy of the reconstruction of exact organ structures is limited.
IoT data management for caching performance improvement in NDN
Authors: Zahedinia Marzieh Sadat , Khayyambashi Mohammad Reza , Bohlooli Ali
Published: September 2023

Connected devices in IoT continuously generate monitoring and measurement data to be delivered to application servers or end-users. Transmitting IoT data through networks would lead to congestion and long delay. NDN is an emerging network paradigm based on name-identified data known to be an appropriate architecture in supporting IoT networks. In-network caching is one of the main advantages of NDN, a major issue discussed in many studies. One of the significant challenges for some IoT data is the transiency nature, making the data caching mechanism different. In this study, the cache placement and data placement are considered together. Data placement is decided upon based on the data lifetime and node position. Data lifetime is an essential property that must be involved in caching methods to prevent invalid data delivery; consequently, the data are classified based on the data lifetime, and specific nodes are selected for caching according to defined classes and nodes position in topology. The objective is to reduce redundancy caused by data caching on all nodes of the data delivery path. By considering both the cache and data placements for transient data, a more comprehensive view is grasped in improving the caching performance. This issue, which has not been addressed in the available studies run on IoT data caching, can lead to the appropriate use of available storage and also reduce redundancy. The obtained results indicate that this method can improve the transient data caching efficiency.
Machine learning-enabled calibration of river routing model parameters
Authors: Zhao Ying , Chadha Mayank , Olsen Nicholas , Yeates Elissa , Turner Josh , Gugaratshan Guga , Qian Guofeng , Todd Michael D. , Hu Zhen
Published: September 2023

Streamflow prediction of rivers is crucial for making decisions in watershed and inland waterways management. The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) uses a river routing model called RAPID to predict water discharges for thousands of rivers in the network for watershed and inland waterways management. However, the calibration of hydrological streamflow parameters in RAPID is time-consuming and requires streamflow measurement data which may not be available for some ungauged locations. In this study, we aim to address the calibration aspect of the RAPID model by exploring machine learning (ML)-based methods to facilitate efficient calibration of hydrological model parameters without the need for streamflow measurements. Various ML models are constructed and compared to learn a relationship between hydrological model parameters and various river parameters, such as length, slope, catchment size, percentage of vegetation, and elevation contours. The studied ML models include Gaussian process regression, Gaussian mixture copula, Random Forest, and XGBoost. This study has shown that ML models that are carefully constructed by considering causal and sensitive input features offer a potential approach that not only obtains calibrated hydrological model parameters with reasonable accuracy but also bypasses the current calibration challenges.
Avaliação do ataque de Eulechriops rubi (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) em pomar de amoreira-preta cultivar Tupy
Authors: De Abreu Scopel Marcos Gilberto , Dos Santos Regis Sivori Silva
Published: September 2023

O cultivo da amoreira-preta é considerado uma importante alternativa para a agricultura familiar. Além dos fatores intrínsecos à produção, a falta de dados sobre o comportamento dos insetos-praga na cultura dificulta a orientação das ações de manejo e prejudica os produtores. A broca-da-amoreira-preta (Eulechriops rubi) é um exemplo disso, pois a falta de informação sobre a praga leva a perdas em torno de 40%. Assim, objetivou-se apresentar informações de campo sobre o comportamento de ataque de E. rubi em hastes (ramos) de amoreira-preta ao longo do ano, em diferentes áreas de cultivo. O experimento foi realizado em um pomar comercial localizado em Vacaria, RS. As hastes foram coletadas em duas áreas distintas, denominadas Área de Pomar Comercial Aberto (PCA) e Área de Diversidade Ecológica (DEC). As coletas foram realizadas nos meses de dezembro, março, junho e agosto. As hastes foram segmentadas e analisadas quanto à presença de galerias e larvas da praga. Do total de ramos analisados, 35% possuem galerias de E. Rubi. Houve variação no percentual de danos dependendo da área: PCA 49% e DEC 14%. A maior parte do dano encontra-se na parte apical dos ramos, com galerias descendentes. A presença de larvas ocorre até meados de setembro.
Nutritional evaluation and bioactive compounds of flours of unconventional edible roots
Authors: Almeida Alves Larissa , Silva Amanda de Jesus , Caldas Rodrigues Isabela da Silva , Teixeira Larissa Carolina , Alencar Moreira Uerisleda , Lopes da Silva Alex Sander , De Jesus Benevides Clícia Maria
Published: September 2023

The bakery sector has increasingly sought flour alternatives, such as unconventional edible root flours, with technologically viable characteristics for industrial production, with greater nutritional value and pleasing consumers in their sensory aspects. So, this work aims to evaluate the nutritional value and bioactive compounds of unconventional edible root meals: purple yam (Dioscorea alata), Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) and ariá (Calathea allouia). Moisture, protein and ash were determined by standardized bromatological methods, lipids by the Bligh-Dyer method, total crude fiber (TGF) by means of the Fiber Analyzer-Ankom 220 device and carbohydrates by difference. The determination of the total phenolic compounds and tannins in the samples were performed using colorimetric analysis methods. A significant variation (p<0.05) was observed between all samples for the humidity (8.31 to 9.37%); proteins (7.47 to 8.93%); ash (3.15 to 4.42%); lipids (0.13 at 1.76%); fiber (0.92 to 4.85%) and carbohydrates (71.52 to 78.18%). For the bioactive compounds, the variation of total phenolics was from 7.35 to 100.77 mg EAG/100g, and for the tannins 0.28 to 1.41 mg EAT /100g. The study showed that the analyzed samples have significant nutritional value, as well as bioactive compounds that can be used in food product formulations.
Panorama do coprocessamento de resíduos industriais no estado do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Fin Emanuela , Maffessoni Daiana , Tramontina Ana Carolina
Published: September 2023

Um dos grandes desafios das indústrias é a destinação final ambientalmente adequada e segura dos resíduos gerados nos processos produtivos. No estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS), a Portaria nº 016/2010 da FEPAM proibiu a disposição de resíduos Classe I com características de inflamabilidade em aterros de resíduos classe I e centrais de recebimento e destinação de resíduos classe I. Uma  alternativa viável e ambientalmente  adequada para a destinação final desses resíduos e passivos ambientais é o coprocessamento em fornos de clínquer, através do aproveitamento energético quando utilizados como substitutos parciais dos combustíveis fósseis ou como matéria-prima. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar o panorama de coprocessamento dos resíduos industriais no RS, no período de 2010 a 2020, com base nos dados obtidos pelo Sistema SIGECORS da FEPAM e das unidades de blendagem localizadas no estado, visando os benefícios dessa alternativa tecnológica para o ambiente e sociedade. Os resultados apresentam evolução progressiva da quantidade de resíduos industriais destinados ao coprocessamento desde a implantação das unidades de blendagem no estado, representando a eliminação do passivo ambiental na ordem de 231 mil toneladas de resíduos no período analisado. No RS, a maior parte dos resíduos declarados como coprocessados no sistema SIGECORS eram impróprios para a execução do método. De maneira geral, foi possível verificar o impulsionamento da tecnologia de coprocessamento no estado do RS, trazendo vantagens nos aspectos ambientais, sociais e econômicos, desde que aplicada com os devidos controles ambientais.
Cancer Pathophysiology
Authors: Sheth Devang B. , Patel Chirag A. , Patel Sandip B.
Published: September 2023

Cancer prevalence across the globe has increased substantially in the last
two decades despite significant progress in inpatient care. Cancer, a multifactorial
disease, evolved several theories to establish pathophysiological conditions.
Uncontrolled proliferation, dedifferentiation and metastasis mainly describe the cancer
progression, which must be characterized by cellular and molecular changes.
Understanding these processes helps devise the strategy for effectively delivering the
drugs to the target sites. The present review described the essential features of cancer
pathophysiology and challenges to achieving drug concentration in the targeted area.
Recent Advances of Multifunctional Nanomedicine
Authors: Chaudhari Pallavi M.
Published: September 2023

The revolution of nanomedicine has emerged as an array of biological
products in the pharmaceutical field. Their peculiarity of nanosize has been a benefit
for the detection and prevention of diseases by application of engineered nanodevices
and nanostructures. This presents range of opportunities, that are suitable for most
drugs, prevents side effects, and enhances patient compliance. Nanomedicine has
fascinated medical research in developing different multifunctional nanostructures like
dendrimers, nanoparticles, micelles, quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, etc. However,
there are still certain impedes to bringing out the best amongst these nanomedicines.
This chapter will spotlight the recent advances of multifunctional nanomedicine, solely
to combat cancer disease conditions, that can offer improvement in the
pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of the conventional approaches and
optimize the efficacy of the existing anticancer drugs. In recent years, combination
therapy has also shown good improvement in cancer therapy as compared to
monotherapy. The theranostic application can offer a good alternative to cancer
treatment. So, when the insights are combined with new nanotechnology-based
therapy, targeted drug delivery can be obtained to avoid the side effects, but the
concern of their toxicity should also be noted. Hence, nanomedicine represents one of
the advanced fields that combine nanotechnology and medicine for improved
efficiency and safety to human health, through the study of elucidation of cellular and
molecular mechanisms, to design performant nano-delivery as an efficient tool for the
treatment of cancer. Thus, the exploration of the properties needs to be understood to
execute the unmet needs and attain project cost benefits.
Mesoporous Based Drug Delivery: A Smart and Promising Approach for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Vadia Nasir , Patel Priya
Published: September 2023

Mesoporous silica has been gaining popularity as a drug delivery medium in
recent years. Materials scientists have used these inorganic carriers successfully in
other fields, including catalysis, purification, and adsorption. A major challenge in
medicine is delivering drugs to defective cells or tumor cells in a way that has minimal
toxic side effects. Due to the poor physicochemical and biological properties of a drug
molecule like solubility, permeability, absorption and bioavailability, patients may
have to take high doses of the drug to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Various
drug carriers are available in the pharmaceutical industry to help solve this problem.
Biocompatible, chemically, and thermally stable nanoparticles, mesoporous silica
nanoparticles (MSNs), are ideal for this application. During the last few years, research
on the mesoporous-based delivery system has been studied vigorously. These materials
act as drug carriers for the delivery of different therapeutic agents. This versatility is
because they are used for the loading of small molecules and macromolecules such as
proteins and siRNA. Mesoporous materials as a drug delivery system were discussed in
this chapter. Specifically, it provides an overview of the synthesis, structural
configurations, and their roles in loading and delivering therapeutic agents for the
anticancer agents used in prostate cancer. The applications of these materials in
prostate cancer for the detection, diagnosis, and treatment, were explored.
Abridgment of Nanotechnology in Skin Cancer Treatment: Current Trends and Future Outlook
Authors: Modi Chetna , Udhwnai Nikita , Shah Pranav , Joshi Arjun
Published: September 2023

This chapter focuses on skin cancer, which is represented by the
accumulation of cells in one part of the skin. It enhances the form of the cells which
line up along the membrane and separates the deep layer of the skin from the
superficial layer. The recent skin cancer treatment includes surgical or excision biopsy,
chemotherapy, targeted therapy, Mohs micrographic surgery, radiation therapy,
photodynamic therapy, therapeutic hyperthermia, immunotherapy, etc. The drawback
of skin cancer treatment with these therapies are skin irritation at the site of treatment
and variation in the skin color or dark pigmentation after treatment, chances of cancer
reoccurrence, longer treatment period and many more. Whereas, nanotechnology
materials are used to deliver controlled and sustained drug dosage to skin cancer
through the skin over a period of time without any skin irritation and other problems
associated with recent treatments. The various kinds of nanotechnology products
mentioned in this chapter offer numerous advantages for skin cancer, such as increased
solubility, drug release in a sustained and controlled manner, better penetration through
skin layers and precise site of action. This chapter discusses the various types and
causes of skin cancer, current treatments and their limitations, as well as the role of
nanotechnology and its products in skin cancer with its future outlook.
Polymer Composites as Packaging Materials
Authors: Singh Amandeep , Banerjee Sovan Lal
Published: September 2023

This chapter aims to obtain a better understanding of the role of polymer
nanocomposites in different packaging applications such as food packaging, electronic
packaging, and industrial packaging. Dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs) in the
packaging materials improves the properties like mechanical strength and modulus,
water resistance, gas permeability, etc. In addition, bioactive agents in the packaging
materials impart interesting smart phenomena like antimicrobial, and antifouling
properties. Generally, petroleum fuel-based thermoplastic polymers are conventionally
used in primary and secondary packaging. Some of the widely used polymeric
packaging materials consist of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high-density
polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE),
polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). However, as the consequence of the harmful
impacts of fossil fuel-based packaging materials on humans, animals, and the
environment has become understandable, more and more emphasis has been shifted to
biopolymers (cellulose, protein, marine prokaryotes, etc.) and their nanocomposites.
Bio-based or bio-originated polymers or biopolymers are eco-friendly, non-hazardous
to living beings as well as to the environment, biodegradable, abundant, and a better
alternative to depletable fossil fuel-based materials. Biopolymer-based nanocomposites
advocate all desirable aspects of a packaging material to be sustainable, reliable, and
environmentally friendly. In addition, the nature-inspired active and intelligent/smart
packaging materials are economical and their contribution to reviving the circular
economy is prominent.
Polymer Composites for Energy Storage Application
Authors: Rohan Rupesh
Published: September 2023

The chapter discusses the role and application of polymers (polymers and
composites) in energy storage devices. Lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors are
the two main energy storage intermittents. The chapter underscores the utilization of
polymers in various roles in these devices and their effect on performance, in addition
to related future aspects and expectations.
Polymer Composite Membrane for Microbial Fuel Cell Application
Authors: Sharma Kalpana , Vempaty Anusha , Kumar Barun , Rai Shweta , Raj Vaibhav , Jadhav Deepak , Pandit Soumya
Published: September 2023

Energy production is a demanded process in today’s world. Some processes
might generate pollutants and other undesirable particulates and toxic chemicals. One
such eco-friendly and efficient method for generating electricity and energy can be
through fuel cells with the utilization of microbes (bacteria). Such a method can be
termed Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs). It is a bio-electrochemical system. It uses
bacteria and their biochemical processes for generating an electric current, along with
oxygen which is a high-energy oxidant. MFCs imitate the bacterial interactions that are
found in the nature. Being a cell, it requires electrodes, substrates, and electrolytic
solutions. To improve the efficiency of the MFC, we need to separate the anode and
cathode into two compartments and the respective reactions taking place. Membranes
play a crucial role in achieving it. A membrane not only divides the anode from the
cathode but also prevents the entry of oxygen into the anode chamber. The most
important function of a membrane is to allow the selective transfer of ions across the
two electrode chambers. Membranes can be diaphragms or separators. Porous
membranes are commercially used ones usually made of different effective polymer
materials. Other important membranes can be semi-permeable and ion-exchange
membranes. This chapter mainly reviews the various membranes and the materials
used in their structures that have the potential to increase the MFC performance. It also
focuses on the different transport processes across the membranes, along with a brief of
advances in this technology and future scope.
Polymer Composites for Sensor Applications
Authors: Rushi Arti , Datta Kunal , Ghanshamji Toksha Bhagwan
Published: September 2023

Polymers play a major role in sensor research nowadays. Specifically, when
the electrical modality of sensing is concentrated then conducting polymers is found to
be highly useful. They have been explored for the development of sensors to cope with
advanced modern-day requirements. There is a huge demand for sensors in detecting
and assessing environmental dynamics, harmful working conditions, food poisoning,
and water contaminations, and diagnostic purposes. The recent pandemic, the COVID-19 outburst all over the world, ascertained the urgency of research in the direction of
designing and developing biosensors enabling distinction among the diseases and
enabling medical professionals to take faster clinical decisions. The conventional
approaches in environment pollutant detection techniques have no universally accepted
code of conduct. Moreover, there are various experimental drawbacks of poor
calibration, tedious sample preparation, blank determination, and lengthy time-consuming procedure. The composites involving conducting polymers and CNTs bring
in unique multifunctional features. The motive of the present work is to review various
latest developments in conducting polymer composite-based sensors.
Carbon Emission Assessment by Applying Clustering Technique to World’s Emission Datasets
Authors: Jaglal Untwal Nitin
Published: September 2023

The greenhouse gas emissions mostly include carbon-dioxide as the major component. The CO2 level is increasing day-by-day which is a great cause of worry for the future world’s environment. The reason why greenhouse gases’ level increases in the environment is to be assessed and controlled. The greenhouse gases have heat trapping capacity. A rise in numerous activities, including transportation, power production, agriculture, business, and residential, which are the main drivers of the increase in GHG levels in the atmosphere, is to blame for the rise in GHG emissions. Nitrous oxide, Methane, and Carbon Dioxide are all part of the GHG portfolio. Deforestation, traffic, and soil degradation all contribute to an increase in CO2 . As a result of burning biomass and urban trash, methane levels are also rising. The chlorofloro carbons are also rising due to refrigeration and industrial operations; so keeping the above concern in mind, the researcher had decided to conduct the study title. Carbon Emission Assessment by Applying Clustering Technique to World Emission Datasets using Python Programming. The study considers a period of 169 years (1750-2019). The study is carried out in five steps data fetching in python programming, feature engineering, standardization, clustering. The study generates 6 clusters. Cluster one contains 220 countries, cluster two includes Russia, France, Germany, China, Europe (others). America (others), Asia Pacific. Cluster three includes the United Kingdom. Cluster four includes the United States. Cluster five includes EU-28. Cluster six includes Malawi.
Herbal Drug Substitution (Abhava-Pratinidhi Dravya): A Key to Stopping Economic Adulteration of Botanical Ingredients
Authors: Shivakumar Arun , Namdeorao Jadhav Atul , Basti Krishnaiah Ashok , Paramesh Rangesh
Published: September 2023

Dwindling of natural resources coupled with the rising demand for several
botanical ingredients in the Indian subcontinent and global market has led to scarcity
and extensive adulteration. This may result in altered safety and efficacy of several
single and polyherbal Ayurvedic formulations. Foreseeing this, Ayurveda experts have
decided to use alternate herbal ingredients with similar properties. Such ingredients are
known as Pratinidhi (a substitute) and are used in medicinal preparations. Because of
the unavailability of a particular herb or the availability of the herb at a prohibitive
cost, the usage of substitutes is necessary. This concept of substitution of herbs in
Ayurvedic medicines is quite an elaborate and popular practice. In commerce, there are
some predominant herbs whose substitutes or adulterants are also being traded. These
substitutes belong to the same or different genera or cultivar species and may or may
not have similar phytochemical constituents. This also relates to the use mentioned in
the authoritative texts of Ayurveda and their modern pharmacological responses and
safety. Ayurvedic system of medicine has an in-depth biochemical classification of
herbs, based on which substitutes can be deduced. In addition, ancient texts have
mentioned alternate herbs for some key ingredients.
In the present article, we are discussing commercially significant herbs, viz. Ativisha,
Bala, Guduchi and Vidanga. These herbs have diverse clinical usage in Ayurveda and
are reported to have properties such as immunomodulatory, anti-pyretic, anti-oxidant
and anthelmintic. Based on this concept, the development of standard protocols for
highly traded botanical ingredients will help the healthcare industry to meet the quality
standards for medicinal products. Using substitute herbs will majorly reduce the
overexploitation of natural resources and help bring balance to the ecosystem.
Complementary and Alternative Strategies for Cancer Prevention and Therapy
Authors: Gupta Shallina , Noorani Irfan Ahmed , Palaq
Published: September 2023

Alternative and complementary therapies have been widely used for the treatment of cancer throughout the world. The term ‘Complementary and Alternative’ (CAM) was used by the American Cancer Society and the Union International Centre le Cancer (UICC). Complementary and alternative medicines mean anything which is not conventional; the reasons to adopt these therapies are that it makes use of the procedures used in adjunct to mainstream therapy in order to improve the quality of life. Several evidences were put on trial that support the value of hypnosis for cancer pain and nausea, mind-body therapies, relaxation therapy, massage for anxiety, acupuncture, homeopathy, Ayurveda, chiropractic medicine and osteopathy. The use of unconventional agents, pharmacological and biological agents, diet and nutrition and herbal therapies are amongst some of the most recent advances in alternative cancer therapies. This article reviews the various popular cancer therapies commonly practiced in India and abroad and reveals the scenario of various complementary and alternative cancer therapies.