bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Folding Double‐Stranded DNA into Designed Shapes with Triplex‐Forming Oligonucleotides
Authors: Ng Cindy , Samanta Anirban , Mandrup Ole Aalund , Tsang Emily , Youssef Sarah , Klausen Lasse Hyldgaard , Dong Mingdong , Nijenhuis Minke A. D. , Gothelf Kurt V.
Published: June 2023

The compaction and organization of genomic DNA is a central mechanism in eukaryotic cells, but engineered architectural control over double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA) is notably challenging. Here, long dsDNA templates are folded into designed shapes via triplex‐mediated self‐assembly. Triplex‐forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) bind purines in dsDNA via normal or reverse Hoogsteen interactions. In the triplex origami methodology, these non‐canonical interactions are programmed to compact dsDNA (linear or plasmid) into well‐defined objects, which demonstrate a variety of structural features: hollow and raster‐filled, single‐ and multi‐layered, with custom curvatures and geometries, and featuring lattice‐free, square‐, or honeycomb‐pleated internal arrangements. Surprisingly, the length of integrated and free‐standing dsDNA loops can be modulated with near‐perfect efficiency; from hundreds down to only six bp (2 nm). The inherent rigidity of dsDNA promotes structural robustness and non‐periodic structures of almost 25.000 nt are therefore formed with fewer unique starting materials, compared to other DNA‐based self‐assembly methods. Densely triplexed structures also resist degradation by DNase I. Triplex‐mediated dsDNA folding is methodologically straightforward and orthogonal to Watson‐Crick‐based methods. Moreover, it enables unprecedented spatial control over dsDNA templates.
Thermoregulation of Tuvan pastoralists and Western Europeans during cold exposure
Authors: Sellers Adam J. , Khovalyg Dolaana , van Marken Lichtenbelt Wouter
Published: June 2023

Objectives

This study compared the metabolic and vascular responses, to whole‐body and finger cold exposure, of a traditional population lifelong exposed to extreme cold winters with Western Europeans.

Methods

Thirteen cold acclimatized Tuvan pastoralist adults (45 ± 9 years; 24.1 ± 3.2 kg/m2) and 13 matched Western European controls (43 ± 15 years; 22.6 ± 1.4 kg/m2) completed a whole‐body cold (10°C) air exposure test and a cold‐induced vasodilation (CIVD) test, which involved the immersion of the middle finger into ice‐water for 30 min.

Results

During the whole‐body cold exposure, the durations until the onset of shivering for three monitored skeletal muscles were similar for both groups. Cold exposure increased the Tuvans' energy expenditure by (mean ± SD) 0.9 ± 0.7 kJ min−1 and the Europeans' by 1.3 ± 1.54 kJ min−1; these changes were not significantly different. The forearm‐fingertip skin temperature gradient of the Tuvans was lower, indicating less vasoconstriction, than the Europeans during the cold exposure (0 ± 4.5°C vs. 8.8 ± 2.7°C). A CIVD response occurred in 92% of the Tuvans and 36% of the Europeans. In line, finger temperature during the CIVD test was higher in the Tuvans than the Europeans (13.4 ± 3.4°C vs. 3.9 ± 2.3°C).

Conclusion

Cold‐induced thermogenesis and the onset of shivering were similar in both populations. However, vasoconstriction at the extremities was reduced in the Tuvans compared to the Europeans. The enhanced blood flow to the extremities could be beneficial for living in an extreme cold environment by improving dexterity, comfort, and reducing the risk of cold‐injuries.
COVID‐19 induced anorexia nervosa: A case series and brief review of literature
Authors: Esmaeeli Soode Tajik , Rahimi Zahra , Saeed Fahimeh , Shoib Sheikh
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

This article emphasizes that patients presenting with COVID‐19 infection especially presenting with predominantly gastrointestinal symptoms and a history of eating disorder or even other mental disorders should be evaluated thoroughly and differential diagnoses should be considered. Clinicians should keep in mind that eating disorders may happen after COVID infection or vaccination.

The emergence and global spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID‐19) have caused a significant mental health burden on communities around the world. Factors related to COVID‐19 affect mental health in the general community, but may have more adverse effects on individuals with pre‐existing mental illnesses. Additionally with the new living conditions and increased focus on hand hygiene and fear of contracting COVID‐19, depression, anxiety, and obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) are more likely to be exacerbated. Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa (AN) have exhibited an alarming increase due to social pressure especially through social media. Also, many patients reported relapses since the commencement of the COVID‐19 pandemic. We report five cases of AN that developed or exacerbated after COVID‐19 infection. Four patients have newly developed (AN) and one case relapsed after COVID‐19 infection. Also, one of the patient's symptoms exacerbated after remission following a COVID‐19 vaccine shot. The patients were managed medical and non‐medically. Three of cases have reported improvements while two other cases were lost because of poor compliance. It might be possible that people with history of eating disorder, or other mental disorders may be more susceptible to newly develop or exacerbate eating disorders after COVID‐19 infection especially when symptoms are gastrointestinal dominant. There is currently minimal evidence on the specific risk of COVID‐19 infection in patients with AN and reporting cases of AN after COVID‐19 infection could help learn the risk, prevent and manage patients. Clinicians should keep in mind that eating disorders may happen after COVID infection or vaccination.
Extensive acute cutaneous graft versus host disease: A rare case report of survival
Authors: Pudasaini Prajwal , Paudel Sushil , Sagar G. C. , Adhikari Sadiksha , Thapa Neeraj , Thapa Bibechan
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Graft versus host disease (GVHD) is an immunologically mediated condition seen in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. Because of the rarity of the disease, nonspecific presentation, and lack of clinicopathological correlation, its diagnosis is often delayed and prompt treatment is deferred, with increased mortality.
A case of cardiac arrest due to postpartum hemorrhage treated with hysterectomy and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Tsuchiya Naoki , Obata Soichiro , Kasai Michi , Miyagi Etsuko , Aoki Shigeru
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Although extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is relatively contraindicated in patients with severe disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), it can be safely introduced by providing adequate anti‐DIC therapy.
Experimental methods in chemical engineering: Data processing and data usage in decision‐making
Authors: Thibault Émilie , Chioua Moncef , McKay Maxime , Korbel Milan , Patience Gregory S. , Stuart Paul R.
Published: June 2023

Industrial facilities collect large volumes of data, store them according to prescribed protocols, and then interpret them for process decision‐making. Several sources and types of error contaminate these data for various reasons, but especially because they come from unreliable or unpredictable instruments. Data (or signal) processing corrects measurement errors to improve fidelity. Here, we highlight decision‐making applications and signal processing methods. To fully appreciate the state‐of‐the‐art, we interviewed plant data experts and software developers in the pulp and paper industry to examine how they apply signal processing methods in the context of decision‐making, including the value of process data, how these data are used, and the major barriers that prevent plants from using data. Process experts clean data thoroughly with basic approaches compared to the advanced techniques available in the recent literature. The interviews demonstrate that decisions in industry are primarily based on steady‐state process operating data. Challenges and barriers that prevent the use of process data to their full potential relate to resource limitations (people, time, and money), an entrenched culture, and access to recent technology. In practice, experts consider, implicitly or explicitly, data that represent the process operating under steady‐state conditions. A plant model that represents steady‐state operations is easier to interpret, is presented in a form that is usable by plant operators, and in this way, better enables decision‐making.
Synthesis of acidic modified UiO‐66 by concentrated sulphation form and its application in the production of fatty acids ethyl esters
Authors: Bento Ivan Edimar , Canesin Edmilson Antônio , Ramires Thiago Gentil , Andrade Milena Martins , Moisés Murilo Pereira , Berezuk Márcio Eduardo
Published: June 2023

In this article, UiO‐66 metal–organic frameworks containing structural modifications were synthesized and characterized to increase acidic surface behaviour for application in heterogeneous acid catalysis to produce fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEE) from degummed soybean oil. The solvothermal route synthesized UiO‐66, and the post‐synthesis acid modifications were done by sulphation reaction in strong acidic medium. The synthesized materials were characterized by physicochemical techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), C‐ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), and N2 physisorption, observing a strong structural modification of the original UiO‐66, but no signal of sulphated ZrO2 was presented. However, the acidic characteristics on the material's surface were increased. A central compound centred on face 23 experiments design was carried out to evaluate three essential reaction variables: temperature, time, and alcohol/oil ratio, obtaining an optimized fit for the UiO‐66‐S35 of temperature at 140°C, time of 3 h, and molar ratio of 16. The optimized statistical adjustment was applied in the reuse cycles assays in three catalyst cycles, reaching the maximum yield of 95% in FAEE, keeping the catalyst active at the end of 3 cycles.
Hybrid bidirectional long short term memory with black widow optimization for crop yield prediction using data mining
Authors: Joseph Linu , Ramasamy Dhanapal
Published: June 2023

Crop yield prediction is highly significant in the agricultural sector. It helps to understand the growth rate of major food crops and identify measures to improve the overall yield. The article proposes a hybrid strategy called bidirectional long short term memory with black widow optimization (Bi‐LSTM‐BWO) for predicting the annual yield produced with improved accuracy. Initially, data augmentation is performed for the collected dataset to increase the size of the dataset and to reduce the data scarcity problem. Then, the dataset is preprocessed to improve the data's quality and remove the noise and irrelevant information. The data is cleaned, transformed, and discretized in the preprocessing stage using various techniques. Then, the preprocessed data is clustered using an enhanced K‐means clustering technique. To enhance the clustering technique, the proposed technique utilized the rain optimization algorithm that automatically computes the initial centroids to improve the clustering outcome. Finally, the prediction process is performed using the proposed Bi‐LSTM‐BWO prediction scheme. The proposed prediction strategy efficiently predicts the annual yield with a high accuracy rate and minimizes loss. The proposed technique achieves a 99.18%, 99.81% and 99.01% accuracy rates for the summer, autumn and winter yield prediction, respectively.
An efficient soft switching synchronous buck converter for battery charging application in hybrid electric vehicle architecture
Authors: Sai Lalitha Ayyagari , Chakraborty Sarbani , Kumar Sarode Shiva
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a novel topology based on a zero voltage soft switching (ZVS) synchronous buck DC‐DC converter using an auxiliary unidirectional cell comprising a diode, a switch, and an inductor. This unidirectional cell aids in achieving the soft‐switching condition for the synchronous switches, thereby abating switching losses and enhancing the system efficiency. Furthermore, the presence of the unidirectional cell results in no additional current or voltage stress on the switches. This topology is well suited to hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) architecture. Detailed analysis and operation of the proposed topology are discussed. The results of the proposed topology are analyzed using MATLAB/Simulink software and validated experimentally.
Polio‐philanthropy in Africa: A narrative review
Authors: Amzat Jimoh , Razum Oliver , Kanmodi Kehinde K.
Published: June 2023

Background and Aim

Polio eradication efforts including polio‐philanthropy have been coordinated and sustained since 1988, with the introduction of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI). The polio fight is sustained in the name of evidence‐based benevolence or beneficent philanthropy from which Africa has benefited immensely. With the recorded polio cases as of 2023, more efforts and funds are required to eradicate polio. Hence, it is not yet “Uhuru.” Using the Mertonian lens, this study examines polio‐philanthropy in Africa, its unintended consequences, and crucial dilemmas, which could impact the polio fight and polio‐philanthropy.

Methods

This is a narrative review that relies on secondary sources obtained through a thorough literature search. Only studies published in English were utilized. The study synthesized relevant literature in line with the study objective. The following databases were consulted: PubMed, philosopher's index, web of knowledge, Google Scholar, and Sociological Abstracts. Both empirical and theoretical studies were utilized for the study.

Results

Despite significant achievements, the global initiative has shortcomings when examined through the Mertonian lens of manifest and latent functions. The GPEI sets a unilinear goal within multiple challenges. The activities of the philanthropic giants manifest in disempowering rigor, multisectoral neglect, and parallel (health) systems, sometimes, inimical to the national health system. Most philanthropic giants often operate vertically. It is observed that, apart from funding, the last phase of polio‐philanthropy will be defined by some crucial factors, the 4Cs: Communicable disease outbreaks, Conflict, Climate‐related disasters, and Conspiracy theory, which could impact the prevalence or resurgence of polio.

Conclusion

The polio fight will benefit from the persistent drive to reach the finish line as scheduled. The latent consequences or dysfunctions are general lessons for GPEI and other global health initiatives. Therefore, decision‐makers should calculate the net balance of consequences within global health philanthropy for appropriate mitigation.
SMARCB1‐deficient basal cell carcinoma of the prostate controlled using radiation therapy
Authors: Makabe Shunta , Koguchi Tomoyuki , Matsuoka Kanako , Hoshi Seiji , Hata Junya , Sato Yuichi , Akaihata Hidenori , Kataoka Masao , Uemura Motohide , Kojima Yoshiyuki
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Basal cell carcinoma of the prostate is rare, with no established treatment for its recurrence or metastasis. We report a case involving basal cell carcinoma of the prostate controlled using radiotherapy.

Case presentation

A 57‐year‐old man complained of perineal pain. Although his prostate‐specific antigen was 0.657 ng/mL, a digital rectal examination revealed his prostate was stone hard. Prostate needle biopsy showed basal cell carcinoma of the prostate. The patient then underwent radical prostatectomy. Local recurrence and sacral bone metastasis appeared 2 months after surgery. OncoGuide™ NCC Oncopanel System showed deletion of SMARCB1; however no recommended treatment was identified. Thus, we decided to perform radiotherapy, which reduced all lesions.

Conclusion

Basal cell carcinoma of the prostate may have a poor prognosis with recurrence or metastasis, hence evaluation of prognostic factors is important. In this case, the genomic profiling test suggested that SMARCB1 deletion may be a prognostic factor associated with disease progression.
L‐carnitine reverses methotrexate‐induced nephrotoxicity in experimental rat model: Insight on SIRT1/PGC‐1α/Nrf2/HO‐1 axis
Authors: Radwan Sara M. , Alqulaly Mustafa , Elsaeed Magdy Y. , Elshora Shimaa Z. , Atwa Asmaa H. , Wasfey Eman F.
Published: June 2023

Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapeutic agent used for treating several types of cancer as well as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, but its use is limited due to its nephrotoxicity. The purpose of this research work was to observe ameliorative effects of L‐carnitine (LC) toward renal toxicity caused by MTX and mechanisms responsible for these effects. Thirty‐two male Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into four groups (eight rats/group), control group (received saline), MTX group (20 mg/kg/i.p. once), LC group (500 mg/kg/i.p. for 5 days), and MTX + LC group (received a single MTX dose 20 mg/kg/i.p. followed by LC 500 mg/kg/i.p. for 5 days). Histopathological examinations, lipid oxidation marker, malondialdehyde (MDA), and the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor‐α [TNF‐α] and interleukin‐6 [IL‐6]) and apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl2, and caspase‐3) were used to assess renal toxicity. Moreover, the protein levels of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and its downstream signaling targets, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α), and nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in addition to heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) were measured. LC significantly protected against MTX‐induced nephrotoxicity. It ameliorated MTX‐induced renal histopathological changes and diminished MTX‐induced renal oxidative stress, renal inflammation, and apoptosis. LC also upregulated the expression of SIRT1 and PGC‐1 as well as Nrf2 and HO‐1. By controlling the expression of renal SIRT1/PGC‐1/Nrf2/HO‐1, LC displayed antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐apoptotic activities. Hence, using LC supplements may help prevent negative MTX side effects.
Why Animal Experiments Are Still Indispensable in Bone Research: A Statement by the European Calcified Tissue Society
Authors: Stein Merle , Elefteriou Florent , Busse Björn , Fiedler Imke AK , Kwon Ronald Young , Farrell Eric , Ahmad Mubashir , Ignatius Anita , Grover Liam , Geris Liesbet , Tuckermann Jan
Published: June 2023

Major achievements in bone research have always relied on animal models and in vitro systems derived from patient and animal material. However, the use of animals in research has drawn intense ethical debate and the complete abolition of animal experimentation is demanded by fractions of the population. This phenomenon is enhanced by the reproducibility crisis in science and the advance of in vitro and in silico techniques. 3D culture, organ‐on‐a‐chip, and computer models have improved enormously over the last few years. Nevertheless, the overall complexity of bone tissue cross‐talk and the systemic and local regulation of bone physiology can often only be addressed in entire vertebrates. Powerful genetic methods such as conditional mutagenesis, lineage tracing, and modeling of the diseases enhanced the understanding of the entire skeletal system. In this review endorsed by the European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS), a working group of investigators from Europe and the US provides an overview of the strengths and limitations of experimental animal models, including rodents, fish, and large animals, as well the potential and shortcomings of in vitro and in silico technologies in skeletal research. We propose that the proper combination of the right animal model for a specific hypothesis and state‐of‐the‐art in vitro and/or in silico technology is essential to solving remaining important questions in bone research. This is crucial for executing most efficiently the 3R principles to reduce, refine, and replace animal experimentation, for enhancing our knowledge of skeletal biology, and for the treatment of bone diseases that affect a large part of society. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Application of ultrasound images‐based radiomics in carpal tunnel syndrome: Without measuring the median nerve cross‐sectional area
Authors: Lyu Shuyi , Zhang Meiwu , Zhang Baisong , Yu Jianjun , Zhu Jiazhen , Gao Libo , Yang Liu , Zhang Yan
Published: June 2023

Purpose

By constructing a prediction model of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) based on ultrasound images, it can automatically and accurately diagnose CTS without measuring the median nerve cross‐sectional area (CSA).

Methods

A total of 268 wrists ultrasound images of 101 patients diagnosed with CTS and 76 controls in Ningbo NO.2 Hospital from December 2021 to August 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The radiomics method was used to construct the Logistic model through the steps of feature extraction, feature screening, reduction, and modeling. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated to evaluate the performance of the model, and the diagnostic efficiency of the radiomics model was compared with two radiologists with different experience.

Results

The 134 wrists in the CTS group included 65 mild CTS, 42 moderate CTS, and 17 severe CTS. In the CTS group, 28 wrists median nerve CSA were less than the cut‐off value, 17 wrists were missed by Dr. A, 26 wrists by Dr. B, and only 6 wrists were missed by radiomics model. A total of 335 radiomics features were extracted from each MN, of which 10 features were significantly different between compressed and normal nerves, and were used to construct the model. The area under curve (AUC) value, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the radiomics model in the training set and testing set were 0.939, 86.17%, 87.10%, 86.63%, and 0.891, 87.50%, 80.49%, and 83.95%, respectively. The AUC value, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the two doctors in the diagnosis of CTS were 0.746, 75.37%, 73.88%, 74.63% and 0.679, 68.66%, 67.16%, and 67.91%, respectively. The radiomics model was superior to the two‐radiologist diagnosis, especially when there was no significant change in CSA.

Conclusion

Radiomics based on ultrasound images can quantitatively analyze the subtle changes in the median nerve, and can automatically and accurately diagnose CTS without measuring CSA, especially when there was no significant change in CSA, which was better than radiologists.
Association of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 gene variants with diabetic nephropathy risk
Authors: Sarray Sameh , Lamine Laila Ben , Dallel Meriem , Ezzidi Intissar , Sellami Nejla , Turki Amira , Moustafa Amgad Elbaz El‐Agroudy , Mtiraoui Nabil
Published: June 2023

Background

Diabetic nephropathy is a highly destructive microvascular complication of diabetes. Genetic predisposition is involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, with multiple allelic polymorphisms associated with the development and progression of the disease, thereby increasing the overall risk. To date, no study is available that shows the association of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) gene polymorphisms with diabetic nephropathy risk. Thus, we investigated the potential genetic influence of MMP‐2 promoter variants in the development of diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods

In total, 726 type 2 diabetic patients and 310 healthy controls were included in the study and genotyped for MMP‐2, −1306C/T, −790T/G, −1575G/T and −735C/T by real‐time PCR. The analysis of the outcomes was performed assuming three genetic models. The threshold for statistical significance was set at 0.05.

Results

The results showed that the minor allele frequency of the −790T/G variant was significantly higher in patients with and without nephropathy compared to controls. Furthermore, the distribution analysis revealed a significant association of the −790T/G variant, in all genetic models, with increased risk of diabetic nephropathy that persisted after adjusting for key covariates. No significant associations between MMP‐2, −1306C/T, −1575G/T, −735C/T and the risk of diabetic nephropathy were detected. Haplotype analysis identified two risk haplotypes GCGC and GTAC associated with diabetic nephropathy.

Conclusions

The present study is the first to demonstrate the allelic and genotypic association of the MMP‐2‐790T/G variant and two haplotypes with an increased risk of diabetic nephropathy in a Tunisian population with type 2 diabetes.
Implementation of a retrofit MRI simulator for radiation therapy planning
Authors: Cahill Katelyn , Rienecker Shermiyah , O'Connor Patrick , Denham Mark , Gibbons Francis , Willis David , Vignarajah Dinesh , Buddle Nicole , Min Myo
Published: June 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is being integrated into routine radiation therapy (RT) planning workflows. To reap the benefits of this imaging modality, patient positioning, image acquisition parameters and a quality assurance programme must be considered for accurate use. This paper will report on the implementation of a retrofit MRI Simulator for RT planning, demonstrating an economical, resource efficient solution to improve the accuracy of MRI in this setting.
Stability of SARS‐CoV‐2 and persistence of viral nucleic acids on common foods and widely used packaging material surfaces
Authors: Li Fu , Xu Ke , Pan Yang , Liu Peipei , Zhang Jing , Yang Mengjie , Lei Wenwen , Feng Zhaomin , Liang Zhichao , Zhang Daitao , Wu Guizhen , Wang Quanyi
Published: June 2023

SARS‐CoV‐2 is still spreading globally. Studies have reported the stability of SARS‐CoV‐2 in aerosols and on surfaces under different conditions. However, studies on the stability of SARS‐CoV‐2 and viral nucleic acids on common food and packaging material surfaces are insufficient. The study evaluated the stability of SARS‐CoV‐2 using TCID50 assays and the persistence of SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acids using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction on various food and packaging material surfaces. Viral nucleic acids were stable on food and material surfaces under different conditions. The viability of SARS‐CoV‐2 varied among different surfaces. SARS‐CoV‐2 was inactivated on most food and packaging material surfaces within 1 day at room temperature but was more stable at lower temperatures. Viruses survived for at least 1 week on pork and plastic at 4°C, while no viable viruses were detected on hairtail, orange, or carton after 3 days. There were viable viruses and a slight titer decrease after 8 weeks on pork and plastic, but titers decreased rapidly on hairtail and carton at –20°C. These results highlight the need for targeted preventive and disinfection measures based on different types of foods, packaging materials, and environmental conditions, particularly in the cold‐chain food trade, to combat the ongoing pandemic.
Genetic characterizations and molecular evolution of human norovirus GII.6 genotype during the past five decades
Authors: Zhou Nan , Li Mingma , Zhou Lu , Huang Yue
Published: June 2023

The norovirus genotype GII.6 is circulating in the population with a relatively high prevalence, but in‐depth molecular characterization studies of GII.6 are needed. In this study, norovirus GII.6 sequences were retrieved and analyzed to demonstrate the molecular characterizations of norovirus GII.6. The results show that GII.6 VP1 gene can be divided into three variants and all variants cocirculated in humans in the past decades. The intragenotypic showed no growth trend over time. Since the overall evolutionary rate was 3.432 × 10−3 substitutions/site/year, the infer most recent common ancestor was estimated as 1913. Only a few amino acid sites were recognized to be under positive selection pressure. The mean effective population size was stable in the recent years. The variant C (especially 87 GII.P7‐GII.6 strains) had a higher evolutionary rate and more sites under positive selection pressure compared to other variants. NS4 protein had the higher diversity than other nonstructural proteins, and VP1 and VP2 genes had the same phylogenetic relationships. This study provides a systematic description of genetic characterizations and molecular evolution of GII.6. Research on norovirus molecular epidemiology should be pursued to enrich the genomic data of the diverse genotypes and improve their analysis.
Overview of factors influencing successful implementation of non‐medical prescribing
Authors: Ghabour Mariam , Wilby Kyle John , Morris Caroline J. , Smith Alesha J.
Published: June 2023

Aim

This study sought to determine the factors influencing successful implementation of non‐medical prescribing (NMP).

Data sources

EMBASE, Medline, CINAHL and reference lists were searched from January 2010 to November 2020.

Study Selection

Umbrella review and narrative synthesis of results were utilised. The retrieved reviews underwent title screening, abstract review, full‐text screening and assessment for inclusion. To guarantee the precision of the search results, Participants, Intervention, Control, and Outcomes (PICO) elements were recorded for each study. Studies were included if they were systematic reviews, published in English, published from January 2010 to November 2020, and discussed barriers and/or facilitators to NMP implementation.

Results

Of the 193 studies identified, eight were eligible for inclusion. Most of the reviews (62%) were published in 2017–2018. The majority of the reviews (62%) were focused on the United Kingdom. Three reviews discussed nurse prescribing, two reviews focused on pharmacist prescribing, and three reviews investigated NMP generally. Data were compiled into the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to evaluate the factors that influence the success or failure of NMP implementation.

Conclusion

Implementation of NMP is a complex process which requires fulfilment of all its elements. The success of NMP can be directly related to the extent of the whole system engagement and support, and available funding.
Polyphenol removal with ultrasound‐assisted ethanol extraction from defatted walnut powder: optimization of conditions and effect on functional properties of protein isolates
Authors: Wu Qingzhi , Lv Dandan , Mao Xiaoying
Published: June 2023

Background

Walnut kernels are high in polyphenols (PPs), which cause low protein solubility, limiting the use of walnut protein in the food industry. To obtain the best technical parameters of the dephenolization treatment, the defatted walnut powder was dephenolized using ultrasound‐assisted ethanol extraction (UAE), and the response surface optimization was performed on the basis of single factor. On this basis, the effects of dephenolization on the solubility, emulsifying properties and foaming properties of walnut protein isolates (WPIs) were compared to those of defatted walnut powder without dephenolization.

Results

The results showed that PP extraction in the UAE could significantly increase PP yield. The optimal process parameters were as follows: 51% (v/v) ethanol concentration, 140 W ultrasound power, 10 min extraction time, 30 °C ultrasound temperature, and a material–liquid ratio of 1:30 (w/v). The results revealed that the UAE dephenolization treatment significantly improved the functionality of WPI and that the functionality of the dephenolized WPI by UAE was superior to that of the protein without dephenolization, and that the functionality of both walnut proteins was the worst at pH 5, with solubility of 5.31% and 4.86%, emulsifying activity index (EAI) of 24.95 and 19.91 m2/g, and foaming capacity (FC) of 3.66% and 2.94%, respectively; and the best at pH 11, with solubility of 82.35% and 73.55%, EAI of 46.35 and 37.28 m2/g, and FC of 35.85% and 18.87%, respectively.

Conclusion

The study found that dephenolization by UAE can significantly improve the functionality of WPI, and this method should be promoted and used in walnut and walnut protein processing industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Aerobic methane synthesis and dynamics in a river water environment
Authors: Alowaifeer Abdullah M. , Wang Qian , Bothner Brian , Sibert Ryan J. , Joye Samantha B. , McDermott Timothy R.
Published: June 2023

Reports of aerobic biogenic methane (CH4) have generated new views about CH4 sources in nature. We examine this phenomenon in the free‐flowing Yellowstone river wherein CH4 concentrations were tracked as a function of environmental conditions, phototrophic microorganisms (using chlorophyll a, Chl a, as proxy), as well as targeted methylated amines known to be associated with this process. CH4 was positively correlated with temperature and Chl a, although diurnal measurements showed CH4 concentrations were greatest during the night and lowest during maximal solar irradiation. CH4 efflux from the river surface was greater in quiescent edge waters (71–94 μmol m−2 d) than from open flowing current (~ 57 μmol m−2 d). Attempts to increase flux by disturbing the benthic environment in the quiescent water directly below (~ 1.0 m deep) or at varying distances (0–5 m) upstream of the flux chamber failed to increase surface flux. Glycine betaine (GB), dimethylamine and methylamine (MMA) were observed throughout the summer‐long study, increasing during a period coinciding with a marked decline in Chl a, suggesting a lytic event led to their release; however, this did not correspond to increased CH4 concentrations. Spiking river water with GB or MMA yielded significantly greater CH4 than nonspiked controls, illustrating the metabolic potential of the river microbiome. In summary, this study provides evidence that: (1) phototrophic microorganisms are involved in CH4 synthesis in a river environment; (2) the river microbiome possesses the metabolic potential to convert methylated amines to CH4; and (3) river CH4 concentrations are dynamic diurnally as well as during the summer active months.
Bottom‐Up Preparation of Phase‐Separated Polymersomes
Authors: Almadhi Safa , Forth Joe , Rodriguez‐Arco Laura , Duro‐Castano Aroa , Williams Ian , Ruiz‐Pérez Lorena , Battaglia Giuseppe
Published: June 2023

A bottom‐up approach to fabricating monodisperse, two‐component polymersomes that possess phase‐separated (“patchy”) chemical topology is presented. This approach is compared with already‐existing top‐down preparation methods for patchy polymer vesicles, such as film rehydration. These findings demonstrate a bottom‐up, solvent‐switch self‐assembly approach that produces a high yield of nanoparticles of the target size, morphology, and surface topology for drug delivery applications, in this case patchy polymersomes of a diameter of ≈50 nm. In addition, an image processing algorithm to automatically calculate polymersome size distributions from transmission electron microscope images based on a series of pre‐processing steps, image segmentation, and round object identification is presented.
Effect of lamina orientation, crack severity, and fillers on dynamic parameters of hybrid composite cantilever beam with double transverse cracks
Authors: Sahoo S. , Jena P. C.
Published: June 2023

Modern‐day research in composite material development primarily focuses on tailoring combinations by proportions of constituent materials and monitoring the changes in their targeted properties. In line with this trend, a new class of glass fiber reinforced polymer hybrid composite beam of size 600 mm×50 mm×6 mm is fabricated by adding graphene (average particle size:10 μm), and flyash (average particle size: 60 μm). The dynamic behavior of the hybrid beam by introducing two transverse cracks at different positions with varying crack depths is studied by employing analytical, finite‐element, and experimental approaches. The dimensionless relative natural frequencies of the cracked/faulty hybrid beam obtained by the proposed methods are compared with the intact hybrid beam. Also, a comparison is made for the hybrid beam with a single crack. An increase in relative crack depth resulted in an increase in values of dimensionless compliances. Further, the effect of fiber orientation and lamina stacking sequence on the dynamic parameters of the hybrid beam are also analyzed. The introduction of the second crack induces higher nonlinearity in bending modes of vibration.
State of the roadside environment from repair works using various materials
Authors: Bieliatynskyi A. , Yang S. , Pershakov V. , Shao M. , Ta M.
Published: June 2023

The relevance of the study is conditioned by the importance of the final condition of the roadside environment after road maintenance using various structural materials. The purpose of this study is to determine the state of the road environment after repair works using various materials in the context of performing a comparative analysis of such a state and identifying key aspects that take place during repair work to restore the integrity of the roadway using certain construction materials. The leading approach is a combination of methods of system analysis of various aspects of road repair and construction using various structural materials, with an experimental and analytical study of the processes occurring in the roadside environment during works with various materials, with the aim to form the necessary scientific basis for comparing the findings. The study results clearly demonstrate the degree of dependence of the roadside environment after repair works on the use of specific materials, since the quality of the building materials used is crucial from the standpoint of further road safety and the state of the roadside environment after performing particular works.
Hemodynamic signal changes and functional connectivity in acute stroke patients with dysphagia during volitional swallowing: a pilot study
Authors: Wen Xin , Peng Junwei , Zhu Yanying , Bao Xiao , Wan Zihao , Hu Rongliang , Liu Huiyu , Li Fang , Liu Zicai
Published: June 2023

Background

Dysphagia is one of the major post‐stroke complications, understanding post‐stroke changes in cortical excitability and promoting early remodeling of swallowing‐related cortical areas to enable accurate treatment is essential for recovery of patients.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate hemodynamic signal changes and functional connectivity in acute stroke patients with dysphagia compared to age‐matched healthy participants in response to volitional swallowing using functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) in this pilot study.

Methods

Patients with first‐ever post‐stroke dysphagia having an onset of 1–4 weeks and age‐matched right‐handed healthy subjects were recruited in our study. fNIRS with 47 channels was utilized to detect the oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) and reduced hemoglobin (HbR) concentration changes when volitional swallowing. Cohort analysis was performed by a one‐sample t‐test. Two‐sample t‐test was utilized to compare the difference in cortical activation between patients with post‐stroke dysphagia and healthy subjects. Furthermore, the relative changes in the concentration of the HbO2 throughout the experimental procedure were extracted for the functional connectivity analysis. The Pearson correlation coefficients of the HbO2 concentration of each channel were analyzed on a time series, and then a Fisher Z transformation was then performed, and the transformed values were defined as the functional connection strengths between the channels.

Results

In this present study, a total of nine patients with acute post‐stroke dysphagia were enrolled in the patient group and nine age‐matched healthy participants in the healthy control group. Our study observed that the extensive regions of the cerebral cortex were activated in the healthy control group, while the activation area of patient group's cortical regions was quite limited. The mean functional connectivity strength of participants was 0.485 ± 0.105 in the healthy control group, and 0.252 ± 0.146 in the patient group, with a significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Compared to the healthy individuals, cerebral cortex regions of acute stroke patients were only marginally activated during volitional swallowing task, and the average functional connectivity strength of cortical network in patients was relatively weaker.
A survey of knowledge and practice of simulation among health tutors in selected health training institutions
Authors: Alhassan Barikisu Ategtoore , Diebieri Maximous , Anliengmene Aloysius Ali , Issah Shirley
Published: June 2023

Aim

The aim of the study was to describe the knowledge and practice of simulation among health tutors with a view to promoting the use of simulation in health training institutions in the Northern and Upper East Regions of Ghana.

Design

The study was quantitative research that utilized a descriptive cross‐sectional survey to describe the knowledge and practice of simulation in teaching.

Methods

A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 138 health tutors who were enumerated through the census for the study. The return rate was 87%, representing 120 health tutors who finally completed the study. The data were presented by means of descriptive statistics.

Results

The findings of the study revealed that few participants had adequate knowledge of simulation. The study also found that a slight majority of the participants practiced simulation in teaching. The study further found that there was a positive correlation between health tutors' knowledge and the practice of simulation. Indicating that an increase in the health tutors' knowledge of simulation is associated with an increase in their practice of simulation.
Comparing Aerosol Generation in Human and Animal Tissues During Common Otolaryngology Procedures
Authors: Nielson Christopher , Kelly Kerry , Attah Reuben , Pei Zheyuan , Wang Yong , Firpo Matthew A. , Park Albert H.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To determine whether hamster and human tissues generate similar amounts of aerosolized particles using common otolaryngology surgical techniques.

Study Design

Quantitative experimental research.

Study Setting

University research laboratory.

Methods

Drilling, electrocautery, and coblation were performed on human and hamster tissues. Particle size and concentration were measured during the surgical procedures using a scanning mobility particle sizer and an aerosol particle sizer (SMPS‐APS) and GRIMM aerosol particle spectrometer.

Results

SMPS‐APS and GRIMM measurements detected at least 2‐fold increases in aerosol concentrations compared to baseline during all procedures. Procedures performed on human and hamster tissues produced similar trends and order of magnitude of aerosol concentrations. Generally, hamster tissues produced higher aerosol concentrations compared to human tissues, and some of these differences were statistically significant. Mean particle sizes for all procedures were small (<200 nm), although statistically significant differences in particle size were identified between human and hamster tissues during coblation and drilling.

Conclusion

Aerosol‐generating procedures performed on human and hamster tissue produce similar trends in aerosol particle concentrations and sizes, although we observed some differences between the 2 tissue types. Further studies should be performed to understand the clinical significance of these differences.
Extremely thinning ribs in severe congenital myopathy
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhang Yongjun
Published: June 2023

A full‐term boy born with global hypotonia, weakness, and respiratory insufficiency was finally diagnosed as X‐linked centronuclear myopathy by whole exome sequencing, with a mutation in the MTM1 gene encoding myotubularin. In addition to the typical phenotypes, the infant had a distinctive feature in his chest x‐ray, extremely thinning ribs. This was presumably due to scarcely antepartum work of breathing and may be an important suggestive indicator for skeletal muscle conditions.
Estimation of model accuracy in CASP15 using the ModFOLDdock server
Authors: Edmunds Nicholas S. , Alharbi Shuaa M. A. , Genc Ahmet G. , Adiyaman Recep , McGuffin Liam J.
Published: June 2023

In CASP15, there was a greater emphasis on multimeric modeling than in previous experiments, with assembly structures nearly doubling in number (41 up from 22) since the previous round. CASP15 also included a new estimation of model accuracy (EMA) category in recognition of the importance of objective quality assessment (QA) for quaternary structure models. ModFOLDdock is a multimeric model QA server developed by the McGuffin group at the University of Reading, which brings together a range of single‐model, clustering, and deep learning methods to form a consensus of approaches. For CASP15, three variants of ModFOLDdock were developed to optimize for the different facets of the quality estimation problem. The standard ModFOLDdock variant produced predicted scores optimized for positive linear correlations with the observed scores. The ModFOLDdockR variant produced predicted scores optimized for ranking, that is, the top‐ranked models have the highest accuracy. In addition, the ModFOLDdockS variant used a quasi‐single model approach to score each model on an individual basis. The scores from all three variants achieved strongly positive Pearson correlation coefficients with the CASP observed scores (oligo‐lDDT) in excess of 0.70, which were maintained across both homomeric and heteromeric model populations. In addition, at least one of the ModFOLDdock variants was consistently ranked in the top two methods across all three EMA categories. Specifically, for overall global fold prediction accuracy, ModFOLDdock placed second and ModFOLDdockR placed third; for overall interface quality prediction accuracy, ModFOLDdockR, ModFOLDdock, and ModFOLDdockS were placed above all other predictor methods, and ModFOLDdockR and ModFOLDdockS were placed second and third respectively for individual residue confidence scores. The ModFOLDdock server is available at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/bioinf/ModFOLDdock/. ModFOLDdock is also available as part of the MultiFOLD docker package: https://hub.docker.com/r/mcguffin/multifold.
The influences of green light on locomotion, growth and reproduction in the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens
Authors: Shi Longqing , Qiu Liangmiao , Jiang Zhaowei , Xie Zhenxing , Dong Meng , Zhan Zhixiong
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Light stimulation at a specific wavelength triggers various responses in insects and can be used for pest control. To develop efficient and ecofriendly photophysical pest control methods, the effects of green light on locomotion, growth (molting and eclosion) and reproduction in Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) (BPH), a major rice pest, were studied. Transcriptomics and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to investigate the mechanisms involved.

RESULTS

BPH adults showed disrupted daily locomotion patterns following green light treatment at night and exhibited abnormal locomotion peaks. Total 6‐day locomotion of brachypterous adults was significantly greater than in the control group. The durations of growth stages 1–4 were all shorter under green light treatment than in the control, whereas the time from fourth molting to eclosion (stage 5) was significantly longer. When BPH adults under green light treatment began laying eggs, the egg hatching ratio (36.69%) was significantly lower than in the control (47.49%). Moreover, in contrast to the control, BPH molting and eclosion events tended to happen more at night. Transcriptome analysis proved that green light significantly affected the expression of genes involved in cuticular proteins, chitin deacetylase and chitinase, which are related to cuticular development. TEM observations confirmed abnormal cuticular development in nymph and adult BPHs (endocuticle, exocuticle and pore canals) under green light treatment.

CONCLUSION

Green light treatment at night notably affected locomotion, growth and reproduction in BPH, thus providing a novel idea for controlling this pest. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.