bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of the status, threats and management priorities of a remnant population of Indus River dolphins in the Beas River, India
Authors: Braulik Gill , Kanwar Gitanjali , Nawab Asghar , Khan Mohammad Shahnawaz , Behera Sandeep K. , Rajkumar Basanta
Published: February 2024

The Indus River dolphin (Platanista minor) is a severely threatened species of freshwater dolphin that occurs only in the lower Indus River system of Pakistan and India. The dolphin's range has declined by 80% since the 1870s, and total species abundance is estimated as approximately 2000 individuals.

In 2007, a remnant population of Indus dolphins was discovered above Harike Barrage, in the Beas River in India, 600 km away from all other individuals of its species. This paper provides an overview of the conservation status of Indus dolphins in the Beas River, details the threats they face, and suggests priorities for their conservation and management.

Between 2011 and 2022, 40 dolphin direct count surveys were conducted. Indus dolphins occur only in the lower third of the Beas River and reported counts have been from one to eight individuals. The data do not indicate an increase in abundance, and instead suggest a potential decrease; however, sightings of calves continue to be reported annually indicating reproduction is still taking place.

Threats to the Beas River dolphin population include accidental entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, escapement downstream of Harike barrage, altered and depleted river flow regimes' and the effects of a very small population size. Urgent conservation measures are essential if this small, but important satellite population is to persist.

Recommended management actions include the complete removal of fishing nets from dolphin habitat, reducing pollution, ensuring adequate river discharge to sustain aquatic ecology including dolphins, evaluating and monitoring dolphin movement through Harike barrage and into canals, and engaging riverside communities to protect dolphins. In addition, the possibility of conservation translocations to supplement this population with individuals from larger healthy populations elsewhere in the range of the species should be explored.
Semiotic scale for library software interfaces: Development and validation
Authors: Verma Manoj Kumar , Kumar Vinit , Yuvaraj Mayank
Published: February 2024

This study presents a significant advancement in the realm of information science by exploring and validating a semiotic scale tailored for library software interfaces. Employing a design‐based approach, the investigation identifies 14 crucial semiotic elements specific to library software interfaces, forming the cornerstone of its theoretical framework. The process of developing the semiotic scale involves creating user personas, conducting a comprehensive semiotic analysis, and engaging in productive collaboration with experts. Through meticulous evaluation and refinement, achieved by expert assessments and user testing, the scale offers actionable insights for guiding interface enhancement. The study's findings encompass a breadth of revelations, including user needs, user personas, outcomes of semiotic analysis, criteria development, and evaluation results across a diverse range of library software interfaces. Serving as a valuable tool for interface designers, the semiotic scale facilitates the alignment of design choices with user preferences and requirements. Its inherent adaptability ensures applicability across a spectrum of library software interfaces. The study's paramount contribution lies in bridging the gap between theoretical semiotics and practical design considerations. The comprehensive model offered by the development and validation of the semiotic scale empowers the evaluation of semiotic elements' impact on user perceptions and interface usability.
Revisiting Dimorphs of 4‐n‐octyloxybenzoic Acid: Contrasting Mechanical Property and Surface Wettability
Authors: Borah Silpi S. , Khan Mohsin , Gogoi Pulakesh , Kalita Nabadeep , Thakuria Ranjit , Nath Naba K.
Published: February 2024

4‐n‐octyloxy benzoic acid is known to exhibit liquid crystalline properties, and under normal pressure and temperature conditions, it exists as at least two crystalline polymorphs. We revisited the system and discovered that single crystals of one of the polymorphs display plastic deformation, whereas the other is brittle. n‐octyl chains are arranged in an end‐to‐end fashion, forming slip planes in the plastically deformable polymorph, whereas they are interdigitated in the crystal structure of the brittle polymorph. Due to the difference in the arrangement of the −COOH group and alkyl chains, the major faces of the crystals of both polymorphs possess significant differences in the wettability towards moisture.
LC–HRMS methods for the quantification of two artemisinin drugs and their metabolites in rat blood and plasma
Authors: Zhou Hongchang , Mao Huixiu , Xing Jie
Published: February 2024

As first‐line antimalarials used in the artemisinin combination therapy, artemisinin drugs exert their action inside red blood cells. However, the blood pharmacokinetic characteristics of artemisinin drugs have not been fully revealed owing to their built‐in chemical instability initiated by Fe2+ released from hemoglobin, with limited information on their metabolites. In this study, liquid chromatography tandem high‐resolution mass spectrometric (LC–HRMS) methods were developed for the quantification of two representative artemisinin drugs (artemisinin, ART; dihydroartemisinin, DHA) and their respective metabolite (deoxyartemisinin, D‐ART; dihydroartemisinin glucuronide, DHA‐Glu) in rat blood/plasma. The blood samples were pretreated with the stabilizer (0.4 m potassium dichromate and 3% EDTA‐2Na). The methods displayed excellent specificity, linearity, accuracy and precision for ART (17.7–709.2 nm) and its metabolite D‐ART (18.8–751.9 nm), and the linear range was 40.0–4,000.0 nm for both DHA and DHA‐Glu. The methods were successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic studies of ART and DHA in rats. The blood‐to‐plasma ratio was 0.8–1.5 for ART, 1.0–1.5 for D‐ART, 1.2–2.2 for DHA and 0.9–1.3 for DHA‐Glu, which was time dependent. The results indicated that artemisinin drugs and their metabolites showed a high but different blood‐to‐plasma ratio, which should be considered when optimizating their dosing regimens or evaluating their clinical outcomes.
Effect of flux and shear rate on E. coli recovery in tangential flow filtration through a single hollow fiber
Authors: Zuponcic Jessica , Cunha Fernanda , Springer Grant , Ximenes Eduardo , Ladisch Michael R.
Published: February 2024

Pathogenic bacteria which enter a viable but non‐culturable (VBNC) state impede efforts to reach detectable concentrations required for PCR methods. This motivated a strategy for tangential flow filtration to concentrate bacteria in aqueous samples while maintaining the bacteria in a viable state, maximizing their recovery and achieving high fluxes through a single hollow fiber membrane. Filtrations were carried out for green fluorescent protein (GFP) E. coli at high shear rates (up to 27,000 sec−1) through 0.2 μm cut‐off polyethersulfone (PES) microfilter membranes or 50 kDa polysulfone (PS) ultrafilter membranes. High shear minimized bacterial attachment on membrane surfaces, which would otherwise occur due to forced convection of the particles to the membrane surface at high flux conditions. Single fiber filter modules were constructed to facilitate concentration of Escherichia coli at fluxes ranging from 55 to 4500 L m−2 h−1. The effect of high shear rates on bacterial viability was found to be minimal with bacterial losses during filtration caused principally by their accumulation on the membrane surface. Recoveries of 90% were achievable at high shear rates when the average flux was ≤300 L m−2 h−1. This corresponded to a 3‐h filtration time for a 225 mL sample through a single hollow fiber. Detectable bacteria concentrations of 1800 colony‐forming unit (CFU)/mL were achieved for starting concentrations of 140 CFU/mL.
New Iridoids and Acyclic Monoterpenoids from the Roots and Rhizomes of Valeriana officinalis var. latifolia
Authors: Liu Jia‐Jin , Wang Li‐Zhong , Duan Yuan‐Ting , Liu Dan , Li Hong‐Mei , Li Rong‐Tao
Published: February 2024

Five new iridoids, valeralides A–E (1–5), two new acyclic monoterpenoids, valeralides F (6) and G (7), together with two known iridoids (8 and 9), were isolated from the roots and rhizomes of Valeriana officinalis var. latifolia. Their structures were elucidated based on 1D and 2D NMR, as well as HR‐ESI‐MS spectroscopic data. The absolute configuration of compounds 1–4 were elucidated based on electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculation. In addition, all the isolates were evaluated for their inhibition on nitric oxide production, cytotoxicity and anti‐influenza A virus activity.
The Biological Activities of Polyether Ionophore Antibiotic Routiennocin is Independent of Absolute Stereochemistry
Authors: Borcher Møller Søren Lau , Rasmussen Michelle H. , Li Jun , Svenningsen Esben B. , Wørmer Gustav J. , Tørring Thomas , Poulsen Thomas B.
Published: February 2024

Carboxylic polyether ionophores (CPIs) are among the most prevalent agricultural antibiotics (notably in the US) and these compounds have been in use for decades. The potential to reposition CPIs beyond veterinary use, e. g. through chemical modifications to enhance their selectivity window, is an exciting challenge and opportunity, considering their general resilience towards resistance development. Given the very large societal impact of these somewhat controversial compounds, it is surprising that many aspects of their mechanisms and activities in cells remain unclear. Here, we report comparative biological activities of the CPI routiennocin and two stereoisomers, including its enantiomer. We used an efficient convergent synthesis strategy to access the compounds and conducted a broad survey of antibacterial activities against planktonic cells and biofilms as well as the compounds’ effects on mammalian cells, the latter assessed both via standard cell viability assays and broad morphological profiling. Interestingly, similar bioactivity of the enantiomeric pair was observed across all assays, strongly suggesting that chiral interactions do not play a decisive role in the mode of action. Overall, our findings are consistent with a mechanistic model involving highly dynamic behaviour of CPIs in biological membranes.
Portal vein thrombosis in a patient with severe hemophilia B: A challenging balanced management
Authors: Benitez‐Hidalgo Olga , Suito Alcántara Milagros , Martinez Garcia Maria Fernanda , Campoy Desiree , Olivera Pavel , Gironella Mesa Mercedes , Juarez‐Gimenez Juan Carlos
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

The increased life expectancy in patients with hemophilia (PwH) over the last years has raised the incidence of comorbidities, including thromboembolic events. Thromboembolic events are rare in PwH and most of them occur in the presence of exogenous risk factors. There is still scarce scientific evidence on the optimal antithrombotic treatment and management approach in this population.

In the hemophilic population thromboembolic events are rare. Most of them are often multifactorial and occur in the presence of both exogenous (orthopedic surgery, intensive replacement therapy, use of central venous catheters…) and endogenous (cardiovascular diseases) risk factors. We describe the case of a 43‐year‐old patient with severe hemophilia B (sHB) receiving prophylaxis with eftrenonacog alfa (rFIXFc) and antithrombotic treatment due to portal vein thrombosis. The patient was treated with extended half‐ life factor IX (EHL‐FIX) prophylaxis maintaining higher trough levels to avoid new bleeding episodes associated to the underlying disease and the use of antithrombotic therapy with low molecular weight heparin. EHL‐FIX concentrates allow prolonged intervals between intravenous infusions and higher hemostatic protection thanks to increased factor trough levels. This current case report provides clinical evidence in antithrombotic management in a patient with severe hemophilia B.
A five‐day‐old child with lipid hemihypertrophy: A case report
Authors: Mirnia Kayvan , Saeedi Maryam , Sangsari Razieh , Kazemzadeh Kimia
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Lipid hemihypertrophy should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neonatal asymmetry. Early recognition and further evaluation for associated disorders are important for appropriate management and surveillance of potential complications.

We present the case of a 5‐day‐old female neonate who presented with a visibly enlarged right thigh, right labia majora, and below the right mandible. This case report highlights the importance of early identification, comprehensive evaluation, and multidisciplinary management in neonates with lipid hemihypertrophy to optimize their long‐term outcomes and quality of life.
A giant hydronephrosis disguised as abdominal obesity
Authors: Mylaraiah Ravishankar , Venkatappa Nandeesh
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Abdominal obesity is common in clinical practice. However, it is important to rule out other causes of abdominal distension. We are reporting a case of giant hydronephrosis misdiagnosed as abdominal obesity for a long time.
A couple of the first cousins born with hypotonia and maternal polyhydramnios
Authors: Ahmadpour‐kacho Mousa , Pasha Yadollah Zahed , Pournajaf Samira
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Congenital myotonic dystrophy should be considered in hypotonic infants with polyhydramniotic mothers with a positive history of myotonia.

Congenital myotonic dystrophy (CDM) is a predominantly maternally inherited disease and results from increased numbers of cytosine, thymine, and guanine (CTG) repeats in the unstable DNA regions and presents as hypotonia in the neonatal period and myotonia in adulthood. This report aims to present two cases of CDM. A first‐cousin couple was born and hospitalized due to hypotonia at birth and a maternal history of polyhydramnios during this pregnancy. The first‐born baby girl was admitted to the NICU with tachypnea and hypotonia, clubfoot, and frog‐like posture. The pregnancy was complicated by polyhydramnios. Interestingly, her first cousin was born the next day with a similar picture and history. Myotonia was detected in their mothers. The concurrent presence of hypotonia and polyhydramnios as well as maternal myotonia in a first cousin should be considered CDM until proven otherwise and this was confirmed by the EMG‐ NCV test.
JAK3/STAT5 signaling‐triggered upregulation of PIK3CD contributes to gastric carcinoma development
Authors: Hu Qingqing , Dou Ning , Wu Qiong , Gao Yong , Li Yandong , Chen Jingde
Published: February 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common solid cancers with high incidence and mortality worldwide. Chronic gastritis and consequent inflammatory microenvironment is known as a major cause leading to gastric carcinogenesis. Here we report that PIK3CD that encodes p110δ, a catalytic subunit of the class IA PI3Ks, is overexpressed and tumorigenic in GC and associated with tumor inflammatory microenvironment. By investigating the data from TCGA database and our immunohistochemical staining and quantitative real‐time PCR results from clinical samples, we found PIK3CD exhibits higher expression level in GC tissues compared with adjacent non‐tumorous stomach tissues. Genetic silencing of PIK3CD in GC cells retards proliferation and migration in vitro and tumorigenicity and metastasis in vivo. In contrast, enhanced expression of PIK3CD promotes these phenotypes in vitro. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of PIK3CD could reduce GC cell viability and colony formation capacities. More importantly, we reveal a relevant mechanism that PIK3CD, but not PIK3CA and PIK3CB, is transcriptionally regulated by the pro‐inflammatory IL2/JAK3/STAT5 axis and tumor‐infiltrating immune cells such as lymphocytes. These observations may setup a new crosstalk between tumor inflammatory microenvironment, IL2/JAK3/STAT5 signaling and PI3K/AKT signaling. Targeting PIK3CD may be a promising therapy strategy for GC.
The influence of the Cr2O3–Mn2O3 colorants system on the spectral characteristics of R2O–PbO–SiO2 glasses
Authors: Petrov D. V. , Bragina L. L.
Published: February 2024

The focus of this paper centers on an exploration of optical glasses with high transmittance within the infrared spectrum at wavelength of 1 060 nm, while concurrently demonstrating full absorption within the ultraviolet and visible spectral ranges. The paper analyzes the present state of glasses demonstrating necessary transmittance at IR range, considering their inherent strengths and limitations. In this context, an R2O–PbO–SiO2 glass system with Cr2O3–Mn2O3 colorants system emerges as the subject of this research. Research was conducted to comprehensively assess the impact of this colorant system on the glass spectral characteristics, while considering the potentially detrimental influence of FeO.

The principles underlying the industrial production of these glasses are systematically elucidated and presented. It was discovered that using gas heating during the cooling phase of glass melting resulted in the disruption of the spectral homogeneity of the glass, ultimately leading to defective product outcomes. Implementing the methodology of gasless temperature reduction (inertial cooling process) before glass pouring has created a favorable environment for producing high‐quality items. Glass samples from the laboratory tests were obtained, and the researched glass was integrated into serial production.
Assessment and Upgrading of Preparation Protocols for Emulsified Crude Oils Mimicking Real Produced Water Characteristics
Authors: Idrees Hasan , Alhanini Heba , Panglisch Stefan , ElSherbiny Ibrahim M. A.
Published: February 2024

Produced water (PW) presents a significant challenge as a complex wastewater stream, necessitating thorough treatment prior to disposal or further reuse. This study is dedicated to the assessment, reproduction and upgrading of literature‐based preparation protocols for synthetic PW at the tertiary treatment stage; more specifically those methods utilizing high‐pressure homogenizers and ultrasonication. The objective was to produce synthetic model water that can be employed as a standardized controllable medium for optimization experiments of PW treatment techniques. This synthetic medium should facilitate the investigation of specific challenges associated with PW tertiary treatment, independent of the different and often unpredictable composition of real PW. The refined methods were modified for the application in lab‐scale research investigating the use of membrane filtration as tertiary treatment step.
Synthesis and in vitro Metabolic Stability of Sterically Shielded Antimycobacterial Phenylalanine Amides
Authors: Lang Markus , Ganapathy Uday S. , Mann Lea , Seidel Rüdiger W. , Goddard Richard , Erdmann Frank , Dick Thomas , Richter Adrian
Published: February 2024

Nα‐aroyl‐N‐aryl‐phenylalanine amides (AAPs) are RNA polymerase inhibitors with activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and non‐tuberculous mycobacteria. We observed that AAPs rapidly degrade in microsomal suspensions, suggesting that avoiding hepatic metabolism is critical for their effectiveness in vivo. As both amide bonds are potential metabolic weak points of the molecule, we synthesized 16 novel AAP analogs in which the amide bonds are shielded by methyl or fluoro substituents in close proximity. Some derivatives show improved microsomal stability, while being plasma‐stable and non‐cytotoxic. In parallel with the metabolic stability studies, the antimycobacterial activity of the AAPs against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium abscessus, Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium intracellulare was determined. The stability data are discussed in relation to the antimycobacterial activity of the panel of compounds and reveal that the concept of steric shielding of the anilide groups by a fluoro substituent has the potential to improve the stability and bioavailability of AAPs.
Self‐etching assembly of designed NiFeMOF nanosheet arrays as high‐efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalyst for water splitting
Authors: Zhang Shifan , Liao Miao , Huang Zhiyang , Gao Mingcheng , Liu Xinqiang , Yin Haoran , Isimjan Tayirjan Taylor , Cai Dandan , Yang Xiulin
Published: February 2024

2D metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as potential candidates for electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reactions (OER) due to their inherent properties like abundant coordination unsaturated active sites and efficient charge transfer. Herein, a versatile and massively synthesizable self‐etching assembly strategy wherein nickel−iron foam (NFF) acts as a substrate and a metal ion source. Specifically, by etching the nickel−iron foam (NFF) surface using ligands and solvents, Ni/Fe metal ions are activated and subsequently reacted under hydrothermal conditions, resulting in the formation of self‐supporting nanosheet arrays, eliminating the need for external metal salts. The obtained 33 % NiFeMOF/NFF exhibits remarkable OER performance with ultra‐low overpotentials of 188/231 mV at 10/100 mA cm−2, respectively, outperforming most recently reported catalysts. Besides, the built 33 % NiFeMOF/NFF(+)||Pt/C(−) electrolyzer presents low cell voltages of 1.55/1.83 V at 10/100 mA cm−2, superior to the benchmark RuO2(+)||Pt/C(−), implying good industrialization prospects. The excellent catalytic activity stems from the modulation of the electronic spin state of the Ni active site by the introduction of Fe, which facilitates the adsorption process of oxygen‐containing intermediates and thus enhances the OER activity. This innovative approach offers a promising pathway for commercial‐scale sustainable energy solutions.
The challenge of standardizing CAR‐T cell monitoring: A comparison of two flow‐cytometry methods and correlation with qPCR technique
Authors: Valdivieso‐Shephard Juan Luis , Matas‐Pérez Elisabet , García‐Bujalance Silvia , Mirones‐Aguilar Isabel , González‐Martínez Berta , Pérez‐Martínez Antonio , López‐Granados Eduardo , Martínez‐Feito Ana , Sánchez‐Zapardiel Elena
Published: February 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy is a breakthrough in hematologic malignancies, such as acute B lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL). Monitoring this treatment is recommended, although standardized protocols have not been developed yet. This work compares two flow cytometry monitoring strategies and correlates this technique with qPCR method. CAR‐T cells were detected by two different flow‐cytometry protocols (A and B) in nine blood samples from one healthy donor and five B‐ALL patients treated with Tisagenlecleucel (Kymriah®, USA). HIV‐1 viral load allowed CAR detection by qPCR, using samples from seven healthy donors and nine B‐ALL patients. CAR detection by protocol A and B did not yield statistically significant differences (1.9% vs. 11.8% CD3 + CAR+, p = 0.07). However, protocol B showed a better discrimination of the CD3 + CAR+ population. A strong correlation was observed between protocol B and qPCR (r = 0.7, p < 0.0001). CD3 + CAR+ cells were detected by flow cytometry only when HIV‐1 viral load was above 104 copies/mL. In conclusion, protocol B was the most specific flow‐cytometry procedure for the identification of CAR‐T cells and showed a high correlation with qPCR. Further efforts are needed to achieve a standardized monitoring approach.
Dynamic, multi‐scale analyses indicate site‐ and landscape‐level forest cover drive Yellow‐billed and Black‐billed Cuckoo interannual turnover
Authors: Johnson Claire A. , Benson Thomas J.
Published: February 2024

Studies of habitat use in breeding birds often assume species have relatively stable breeding distributions. Some species, however, display considerable year‐to‐year variability, complicating efforts to determine suitable or preferred habitats. After returning to their breeding range, Black‐billed Cuckoos (Coccyzus erythropthalmus) and Yellow‐billed Cuckoos (C. americanus) are thought to range widely before nesting, resulting in high rates of interannual breeding‐site turnover, potentially contributing to conflicting habitat associations found in past studies. However, difficulty detecting these rare and declining species could lead to overinflated estimates of interannual turnover. Using broadcast surveys to increase detection probability, we collected detection/non‐detection data in 2019 and 2020 at 41 publicly owned sites in Illinois and performed a dynamic, multi‐scale occupancy analysis for each species to separate detection probability from potential interannual turnover and determine landscape and small‐scale variables driving habitat use and occupancy dynamics. We found strong support for interannual turnover for both species based on poor performance of non‐dynamic models and variation in estimated annual occupancy (20% and 21% increase between years for Black‐billed and Yellow‐billed Cuckoos, respectively). Black‐billed Cuckoos persisted at sites with less forest in the surrounding landscape and used areas with denser understory vegetation. Yellow‐billed Cuckoos colonized sites with greater canopy cover, avoided developed landscapes, and used areas with a shorter subcanopy layer. The dynamic nature of habitat use in these two cuckoo species suggests the importance of coordinating management and conservation across a broader spatial scale. Managing for larger patches of dense shrubs in less forested landscapes would benefit Black‐billed Cuckoos while Yellow‐billed cuckoos would benefit from management creating forested areas with open understories in less‐developed landscapes.
1,5,7‐Triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD): An Organocatalyst for Rapid Access to 3‐Hydroxyisoindolin‐1‐ones
Authors: Lan Chunling Blue , Auclair Karine
Published: February 2024

The readily available organocatalyst 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) was used for the rapid synthesis of 3‐hydroxyisoindolin‐1‐ones from 3‐alkylidenephthalides. The transformation occurs at room temperature and requires less solvent than traditional methods, providing a more sustainable synthetic option to access 3‐hydroxyisoindolin‐1‐ones with broad scope. Elaboration of the products to diverse scaffolds as well as synthesis of biologically active compounds are demonstrated.
Disease‐smart climate adaptation for wildlife management and conservation
Authors: Thurman Lindsey L , Alger Katrina , LeDee Olivia , Thompson Laura M , Hofmeister Erik , Hudson J Michael , Martin Alynn M , Melvin Tracy A , Olson Sarah H , Pruvot Mathieu , Rohr Jason R , Szymanksi Jennifer A , Aleuy Oscar A , Zuckerberg Benjamin
Published: February 2024

Climate change is a well‐documented driver and threat multiplier of infectious disease in wildlife populations. However, wildlife disease management and climate‐change adaptation have largely operated in isolation. To improve conservation outcomes, we consider the role of climate adaptation in initiating or exacerbating the transmission and spread of wildlife disease and the deleterious effects thereof, as illustrated through several case studies. We offer insights into best practices for disease‐smart adaptation, including a checklist of key factors for assessing disease risks early in the climate adaptation process. By assessing risk, incorporating uncertainty, planning for change, and monitoring outcomes, natural resource managers and conservation practitioners can better prepare for and respond to wildlife disease threats in a changing climate.
The integrated farming system is an environmentally friendly and cost‐effective approach to the sustainability of agri‐food systems in the modern era of the changing climate: A comprehensive review
Authors: Bhagat Rakshit , Walia Sohan Singh , Sharma Kartik , Singh Rajbir , Singh Gurshaminder , Hossain Akbar
Published: February 2024

The integrated farming system (IFS) is a holistic farming approach specially designed for small/marginal farmers to enhance the system productivity, profitability, and employment generation of their farm, ultimately ensuring their food and nutrition security for their livelihood. The mechanism of IFS offers various ecosystem services making farms environment‐friendly, sustainable, and climate‐resilient. IFS is characterized by the allocation of different agricultural components systematically in a single farm performing synergistically among themselves making the farm more productive, healthy, biodiversity enriched, and eco‐friendly than simplified farms. Therefore, this review paper represents an extensive analysis of existing literature on IFS exploring its concept, components, and need, and emphasizing its potential for higher system productivity, profitability, and employment generation in a sustainable manner. Moreover, it develops a conceptualization of the relationship among different agricultural components in a single farm exploring its role in ecosystem services (reducing greenhouse gases, carbon sequestration, nutrient recycling, improving soil health, and biodiversity conservation).
Immunomodulatory activity of heat‐killed Lacticaseibacillus paracaseiMCC1849 based on the activation of plasmacytoid dendritic cells in the peripheral blood of healthy adults
Authors: Li Yiran , Aoki Takahiro , Iwabuchi Sadahiro , Arai Satoshi , Iwabuchi Noriyuki , Motobayashi Hideki , Tanaka Miyuki , Hashimoto Shinichi
Published: February 2024

Probiotics are widely used in food for their health benefits to the host. Inactivated probiotics also reportedly improve the intestinal environment and immune regulation. Our previous studies showed that heat‐killed Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MCC1849 (hk‐MCC1849) effectively induced IL‐12 production in mouse spleen cells and significantly reduced cold symptoms in clinical trial subjects. To further elucidate the mechanism of host immune regulation by hk‐MCC1849, human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were cocultured with hk‐MCC1849. The Toll‐like receptor 9 ligands CpG‐ODN 2216 and hk‐MCC1849 and the heat‐killed Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus ATCC53103 were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. The results showed that, compared with the control, hk‐MCC1849 significantly increased the expression of the plasmacytoid dendritic cell (pDC) marker CD86 (p < .0001) and the pDC marker HLA‐DR (p < .001) in PBMCs. The expression levels of the IL‐12p40, IFNα, IFNα1, IFNγ, and ISG15 genes were significantly increased after coculture with hk‐MCC1849 (p < .05, p < .05, p < .05, p < .05, and p < .05, respectively, vs. control). Furthermore, to confirm whether hk‐MCC1849 directly interacted with pDCs, DCs were enriched with PBMCs following 24 h of coculture with hk‐MCC1849. Phagocytosis of fluorescently labeled hk‐MCC1849 by pDCs was observed, and there were significant increases in CD86 (p < .05) and HLA‐DR (p < .0001) expression in pDCs. These results suggest that hk‐MCC1849 exerts a potential immunomodulatory effect on the host through the activation of peripheral pDCs.
Single‐cell analysis of MYD88L265P and MYD88WT Waldenström macroglobulinemia patients
Authors: Bagratuni Tina , Aktypi Foteini , Theologi Ourania , Sakkou Maria , Verrou Kleio Maria , Mavrianou‐Koutsoukou Nefeli , Patseas Dimitrios , Liacos Christine , Skourti Stamatia , Papadimou Alexandra , Taouxi Kostantina , Theodorakakou Foteini , Kollias Georgios , Sfikakis Petros , Terpos Evangelos , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Kastritis Efstathios
Published: February 2024

Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) is characterized by the expansion of clonal lymphoplasmacytic cells; the MYD88L265P somatic mutation is found in >90% of patients, but malignant B cells may still display intra‐clonal heterogeneity. To assess clonal heterogeneity in WM, we generated and performed single‐cell RNA sequencing of CD19+ sorted cells from five patients with MYD88L265P and two patients with MYD88WT genotype as well as two healthy donors. We identified distinct transcriptional patterns in the clonal subpopulations not only between the two genetically distinct WM subgroups but also among MYD88L265P patients, which affected the B cell composition in the different subgroups. Comparison of clonal and normal/polyclonal B cells within each patient sample enabled the identification of patient‐specific transcriptional changes. We identified gene signatures active in a subset of MYD88L265P patients, while other signatures were active in MYD88WT patients. Finally, gene expression analysis showed common transcriptional features between patients compared to the healthy control but also differentially expressed genes between MYD88L265P and MYD88WT patients involved in distinct pathways, including NFκΒ, BCL2, and BTK. Overall, our data highlight the intra‐tumor clonal heterogeneity in WM with potential prognostic and therapeutic implications.
Developing the future research agenda for the health and social care workforce in the United Kingdom: Findings from a national forum for policymakers and researchers
Authors: Lamont Tara , Chatfield Cat , Walshe Kieran
Published: February 2024

There is a gap between healthcare workforce research and decision‐making in policy and practice. This matters more than ever given the urgent staffing crisis. As a national research network, we held the first ever United Kingdom (UK) forum on healthcare workforce evidence in March 2023. This paper summarises outputs of the event including an emerging UK healthcare workforce agenda and actions to build research capacity and bridge the gap between academics and decisionmakers. The forum brought together over 80 clinical and system leaders, policymakers and regulators with workforce researchers. Fifteen sessions convened by leading experts combined knowledge exchange with deliberative dialogue over 2 days. Topics ranged from workforce analytics, forecasting, international migration to interprofessional working. In the small groups that were convened, important gaps were identified in both the existing research body and uptake of evidence already available. There had not been enough high quality evaluations of recent workforce initiatives implemented at pace, from virtual wards to e‐rostering. The pandemic had accelerated many changes in skillmix and professional roles with little learning from other countries and systems. Existing research was often small‐scale or focused on individual, rather than organisational solutions in areas such as staff wellbeing. In terms of existing research, managers were often unaware of accepted high quality evidence in areas like the relationship between registered nurse staffing levels and patient outcomes. More work is needed to engage new disciplines from labour economics and occupational health to academic human resources and to strengthen the emerging diverse community of healthcare workforce researchers.
Designing a model for implementing diagnosis‐related groups in Iran: An action plan approach
Authors: Asadi Farkhondeh , Anvari Mahrokh , Ghaderzadeh Mustafa , Ghorbani Nahid Ramezan
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Implementing diagnosis‐related groups (DRGs) in different countries increases the efficiency of healthcare services, improves treatment quality, and reduces treatment costs. Due to the lack of a coherent model for its implementation, the present study aimed to develop a DRGs‐based implementation action plan Model for Iran.

Methods

The present study was an applied, descriptive cross‐sectional study conducted in three stages. In the first stage, a review of studies conducted in different countries was carried out. In the second stage, a model was designed for an action plan to implement the DRGs in Iran. In the third stage, the model was validated based on the Delphi technique.

Results

The DRGs‐based implementation action plan model in Iran was designed in three primary axes, including the strategic approach of the DRGs‐based implementation action plan, technical dimensions, and executive institutions involved in the DRGs‐based implementation action plan. Validation of the designed model showed the agreement of experts (94%) for the mentioned axes.

Conclusion

The significance of tailoring a DRGs‐based implementation action plan to each country's unique context is well‐established. Given the intricacies of the Iranian healthcare system, we recommend an initial pilot implementation of DRGs at the hospital level, followed by a gradual national rollout.
SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron (BA.4, BA.5) variant: Lessons learned from a new variant during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Erabi Gisou , Faridzadeh Arezoo , Parvin Ali , Deravi Niloofar , Rahmanian Mohammad , Fathi Mobina , Aleebrahim‐Dehkordi Elahe , Rezaei Nima
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim

In late 2021, the world faced the rapid spread of the SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant, which quickly became the variant of concern. In April 2022, two new lineages of Omicron (BA.4/BA.5) emerged from Africa, where they caused the fifth wave of infection.

Method

We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus online databases up to December 2023 for founding relevant studies.

Results

BA.4 and BA.5 subgroups, with changes in the spike protein, have a greater ability to escape from the immune system, which was possible with the help of L452R and F486V mutations. Epidemiologically, these evolving subtypes show similarities to seasonal influenza but with higher mortality rates. The symptoms of these subgroups are different from the previous types in the form of upper respiratory symptoms. Antiviral treatments, the use of antibodies such as bebtelovimab, and the development of vaccines are promising.

Conclusion

Consequently, we must continue to be vigilant in our joint surveillance efforts against COVID‐19 in diagnosis and treatment.
Adverse neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with asthma: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Robijn Annelies L. , Harvey Soriah M. , Jensen Megan E. , Atkins Samuel , Quek Kiah J. D. , Wang Gang , Smith Hannah , Chambers Christina , Namazy Jennifer , Schatz Michael , Gibson Peter G. , Murphy Vanessa E.
Published: February 2024

Background

A systematic review and meta‐analysis from 2013 reported increased risks of congenital malformations, neonatal death and neonatal hospitalization amongst infants born to women with asthma compared to infants born to mothers without asthma.

Objective

Our objective was to update the evidence on the associations between maternal asthma and adverse neonatal outcomes.

Search Strategy

We performed an English‐language MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and COCHRANE search with the terms (asthma or wheeze) and (pregnan* or perinat* or obstet*).

Selection Criteria

Studies published from March 2012 until September 2023 reporting at least one outcome of interest (congenital malformations, stillbirth, neonatal death, perinatal mortality, neonatal hospitalization, transient tachypnea of the newborn, respiratory distress syndrome and neonatal sepsis) in a population of women with and without asthma.

Data Collection and Analysis

The study was reported following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) and the Meta‐Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. Quality of individual studies was assessed by two reviewers independently using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Random effects models (≥3 studies) or fixed effect models (≤2 studies) were used with restricted maximum likelihood to calculate relative risk (RR) from prevalence data and the inverse generic variance method where adjusted odds ratios (aORs) from individual studies were combined.

Main Results

A total of 18 new studies were included, along with the 22 studies from the 2013 review. Previously observed increased risks remained for perinatal mortality (relative risk [RR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05, 1.23 n = 16 studies; aOR 1.07, 95% CI: 0.98–1.17 n = 6), congenital malformations (RR 1.36, 95% CI: 1.32–1.40 n = 17; aOR 1.42, 95% CI: 1.38–1.47 n = 6), and neonatal hospitalization (RR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.25–1.30 n = 12; aOR 1.1, 95% CI: 1.07–1.16 n = 3) amongst infants born to mothers with asthma, while the risk for neonatal death was no longer significant (RR 1.33, 95% CI: 0.95–1.84 n = 8). Previously reported non‐significant risks for major congenital malformations (RR1.18, 95% CI: 1.15–1.21; aOR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.15‐1.26 n = 3) and respiratory distress syndrome (RR 1.25, 95% CI: 1.17–1.34 n = 4; aOR 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01–1.18 n = 2) reached statistical significance.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals should remain aware of the increased risks to neonates being born to mothers with asthma.
Aloe vera‐based biomaterial ink for 3D bioprinting of wound dressing constructs
Authors: Ceballos‐Santa M. Camila , Sierra Alfonso , Zalbidea Iker Martinez , Lazarus Emily , Marin‐Montealegre Valeria , Ramesh Srikanthan , Iglesias Patricia , Wuertz‐Kozak Karin , Rivero Iris V.
Published: February 2024

This study emphasizes the development of a multifunctional biomaterial ink for wound healing constructs. The biomaterial ink benefits from Aloe vera's intrinsic biocompatible, biodegradable, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, and immunomodulatory attributes, thus alleviating the need for supplementary substances employed to combat infections and stimulate tissue regeneration. Moreover, this biomaterial ink seeks to address the scarcity of standardized printable materials possessing adequate biocompatibility and physicochemical properties, which hinder its widespread clinical adoption. The biomaterial ink was synthesized via ionic crosslinking to enhance its rheological and mechanical characteristics. The findings revealed that Aloe vera substantially boosted the hydrogel's viscoelastic behavior, enabling superior compressive modulus and the extrusion of fine filaments. The bioprinted constructs exhibited desirable resolution and mechanical strength while displaying a porous microstructure analogous to the native extracellular matrix. Biological response demonstrated no detrimental impact on stem cell viability upon exposure to the biomaterial ink, as confirmed by live/dead assays. These outcomes validate the potential of the developed biomaterial ink as a resource for the bioprinting of wound dressings that effectively foster cellular proliferation, thereby promoting enhanced wound healing by leveraging Aloe vera's inherent properties.
Preparation of catalyst of cobalt‐ and/or iron‐doped strontium zirconate and its performance in removal of m‐cresol using ozone as oxidant
Authors: Liu Weijun , Wang Ankang , Li Xunchen , Qi Meirong , Li Fuyuan , Zhao Liuqian , Chen Xiaofei , Lei Yihan , Ma Lei
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Wastewater containing m‐cresol has become a global water environmental problem because its degradation is difficult, and it is highly toxic to plants, animals, and humans. The heterogeneous catalytic ozonation process has been widely used in the treatment of environmental pollution, so it is very important to study efficient catalysts. Perovskite catalysts have been widely investigated and applied in catalytic ozonation processes. Among them, strontium zirconate is a promising perovskite catalyst owing to its high oxidation efficiency and environmental friendliness.

RESULTS

Strontium zirconate was successfully synthesized via the co‐precipitation method. To improve strontium zirconate catalytic performance, some methods such as changing the doping ratio of cobalt and iron, changing the amount of polyethylene glycol added, changing the calcination temperature, and changing the aging time were carried out during the synthesis process. Finally, the optimal conditions were determined. 0.4 g L−1 Sr2Co0.4Fe0.6ZrO6 prepared under the optimal conditions was used for catalytic ozonation of 100 ppm m‐cresol, which achieved the optimum degradation (0.136 min−1), m‐cresol conversion rate (92.2%) and total organic carbon removal rate (12.1%) within 20 min.

CONCLUSION

This work provides the best preparation conditions. The Sr2Co0.4Fe0.6ZrO6 catalyst, as prepared, is the optimal catalyst for catalytic ozonation of m‐cresol among the investigated Sr2CoxFe1−xZrO6 catalysts. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Dental Service Organization affiliation: Understanding key aspects of State Dental Practice Act compliance
Authors: Cameron Cheryl A. , DeVore Cheryl H.
Published: February 2024

Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) are an increasingly visible and available practice option for new dental graduates. While guidance has been published to help dental students make informed decisions when considering a DSO affiliation, they have not focused on the complexities of assessing compliance with controlling state laws. Accordingly, this Perspectives article provides a concise summary of the common components of state regulatory provisions across the United States to support an understanding of the corporate practice of dentistry and compliance considerations. The guiding principles to consider include ownership or proprietorship of and control over a dental practice; control over dental offices, equipment, and materials; employment of dental personnel; and control over clinical judgment. This article should be helpful to students who are considering a DSO affiliation and educators who prepare them to enter dental practice.
Fatal cervical myelopathy in a child with glutaric aciduria type 1
Authors: Chauvet Eline , Ribeiro Diana , Kern Ilse , Fluss Joel
Published: February 2024

We report the case of a Syrian female refugee with late diagnosis of glutaric aciduria type 1 characterised by massive axial hypotonia and quadriplegia who only started adequate diet upon arrival in Switzerland at the age of 4 years, after a strenuous migration journey. Soon after arrival, she died from an unexpected severe upper cervical myelopathy, heralded by acute respiratory distress after a viral infection. This was likely due to repeated strains on her hypotonic neck and precipitated by an orthotopic os odontoideum who led to atlanto‐axial subluxation. This case reminds us not to omit handling patients with insufficient postural control and hypotonia with great care to avoid progressive cervical myelopathy.
Histopathological findings from the investigation of paediatric acute hepatitis of unknown aetiology, United Kingdom 2022
Authors: Callaby Helen , McGuire Emma , Rajwal Sanjay , Stahlschmidt Jens , Hartley Jane , Brown Rachel M. , Deheragoda Maesha , Quaglia Alberto , Rampling Tommy , Houlihan Catherine F. , Claire Gordon N. , Brown Colin S. , Simmons Ruth , Samson Anda , Mandal Sema , Grammatikopoulos Tassos , Demirjian Alicia
Published: February 2024

In 2022, there were global reports of increased numbers of acute hepatitis not explained by hepatitis A–E virus infection in children. This manuscript summarises histopathology results from 20 patients in the United Kingdom who underwent liver transplant or had a liver biopsy as part of aetiological investigations. All available histopathological samples were reviewed centrally as part of the outbreak investigation. A working group comprised of infection specialists, hepatologists and histopathologists met virtually to review the cases, presentation, investigations and histopathology. All 20 liver samples had evidence of inflammation without significant interface activity, and submassive confluent pan‐lobular or multilobular hepatocellular necrosis. Overall, the predominant histopathological findings were of acute nonspecific hepatitis with submassive hepatic necrosis and central vein perivenulitis and endothelitis. Histopathological findings were a poor indicator of aetiology.