Significant Values Research Articles

Enhancing Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Comparative Analysis of Rapid Point-of-Care Infliximab, Adalimumab and Anti-Drug Antibodies' Determination against ELISA.

The introduction of point-of-care (POC) assays into clinical practice in patients with inflammatory disease enables on-demand therapeutic decision making. The aim of this study was to compare the POC test Quantum blue (Bühlmann Laboratories) for infliximab (IFX), adalimumab (ADL), and its anti-drug antibodies with the traditional ELISA assay (Promonitor). A total of 200 serum samples were analyzed. Samples were classified into the following three different groups; sub-therapeutic range (IFX < 3 μg/mL and ADL < 5 μg/mL); therapeutic range (IFX: 3-7 μg/mL and ADL: 5-12 μg/mL) and supra-therapeutic range (IFX levels > 7 μg/mL and ADL levels > 12 μg/mL). Significant higher values were measured using the POC test (p < 0.001) for IFX results but no differences in ADL trough levels were observed (p = 0.3101). Spearman's correlation indicated a good correlation between the two assays (rs = 0.88 for ADL and rs = 0.93 for IFX), and McNemar's test revealed significant differences (p = 0.016) when classifying IFX samples between therapeutic and supra-therapeutic ranges but no significant differences were found among the other ranges for either IFX or ADL. These results show that we should be cautious when using these rapid measurement methods, and new targets should probably be defined for IFX when using this new analytical method.

Development and validation of a novel death risk stratification scale in patients with hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome: a 14-year ambispective cohort study

ObjectivesTo develop and validate a simple and effective death risk stratification scale for hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). MethodsIn this ambispective cohort study, we investigated the epidemiological and clinical data of 2245 patients with HFRS (1873 enrolled retrospectively and constituting the training cohort, 372 prospectively recruited as the validation cohort) from September 2008 to December 2021, and identified independent risk factors for 30-day death of HFRS. Using logistic regression analysis, a nomogram prediction model was established and was further simplified into a novel scoring scale. Calibration plot, receiver operating characteristic curve, net reclassification index, integrated discrimination index, and decision curve analysis were used to assess the calibration, discrimination, precision, and clinical utility in both training and validation cohorts. ResultsOf 2245 patients with HFRS, 132 (5.9%) died during hospitalization. The nomogram prediction model and scoring scale were developed using six predictors: comorbid hypertension, hypotensive shock, hypoxemia, neutrophils, aspartate aminotransferase, and activated partial thromboplastin time. Both the scale and nomogram were well calibrated (near-diagonal calibration curves) and demonstrated significant predictive values (areas under receiver operating characteristic curves >0.9, sensitivity and specificity >90% in the training cohort and >84% in the validation cohort). The simplified scoring scale demonstrated equivalent discriminative ability to the nomogram, with net reclassification index and integrated discrimination index of 0.022 and 0.007 in the training cohort, 0.126 and 0.022 in the validation cohort. Decision curve analysis graphically represented significant clinical utility and comparable net benefits of the nomogram and scoring scale across a range of threshold probabilities. DiscussionThis evidence-based, factor-weighted, accurate score could help clinicians swiftly stratify HFRS mortality risk and facilitate the implementation of patient triage and tiered medical services during epidemic peaks.

A mild catalyzed imino Diels-Alder reaction for the synthesis of N-(2-(o-tolyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-4-yl)formamide derivatives as regulators of Quorum Sensing in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Bacterial resistance is one of the major global public health problems. In addition, virulence factors promoted multiple drug resistance through cell-to-cell communications by molecules within microbial communities, denominated Quorum Sensing (QS). The regulation of QS by small molecules appears as a therapeutic alternative through the use of synthetic analogs of agonists. The present work developed the construction of a series of derivatives of N-(2-(o-tolyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-4-yl) formamide (1a-h) via Povarov-type sequential reactions to deliver the tetrahydroquinoline (THQ) derivatives in moderate to good yields (24–78%). To evaluate the potential in molecular diversity of THQ-type autoinducers, a study of these agents as potential inhibitors of bacterial growth and virulence factors involved in QS systems on P. aeruginosa was carried out both as antibacterial evaluation on E. coli strain. THQs showed significant activity values for molecules with halogen substituents at the C-6 position (-F, -Cl, and I), revealing at a concentration of 75 µg/mL a percentage inhibition between 27 and 40%. Furthermore, autoinducers with halogen substitutes in phenotypic studies on P. aeruginosa showed good results. Also, they exhibited weak formation of both biofilm and low pyocyanin formation, which are indicators of virulence in P. aeruginosa. Overall, the results suggest that compound N-(6-fluor-2-(o-tolyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline-4-yl)formamide (1a) stands out as the most representative within this series of THQ derivatives.

3D Slot Roughness of Contemporary Ceramic Brackets

Purpose of Study: To examine the roughness of slots of three ceramic brackets. Materials and Methods: Three ceramic bracket types (Encore, Reflections and Inspire ICE). The bottom of each slot of every bracket was selected for evaluation and pictures were taken by optical microscopy at magnification (20x) for a general estimation of the roughness. Then the roughness parameters (Sa, Sq, St, Sz) of every slot were examined in a 3D optical profilometer in a higher magnification. Results: The picture from Optical microscope gave a differences of textural morphology of brackets slots for tested brackets. Metallic slots gave differences of grooves and striations whereas plastic slots presented peaks and pits. Inspire ICE showed the highest Sa and Sq value, statistically higher than the other brackets tested. Reflections gave the highest Sz and St values, which were statistically significant higher than the other brackets, followed by Inspire ICE which presented statistically significant higher values compared to Encore. Conclusions: The significant differences were revealed through 3D-images and roughness parameters of slots gives significantly different among the tested bracket. Encore and exhibited low roughness parameters.

Efficacy of Khaya grandifoliola Stem Bark Ethanol Extract in the Treatment of Cerebral Malaria in Swiss albino Mice Using Plasmodium berghei NK65 Strain.

Cerebral malaria is one of the most severe and dangerous forms of malaria and is potentially fatal. This study was aimed at evaluating the anticerebral malaria efficacy of Khaya grandifoliola used by traditional healers. Fifty grams of Khaya grandifoliola stem bark was macerated in 1 L ethanol (95%) for 72 h. The filtrate was dried at 40°C until the obtention of a dry extract. The antimalarial test was evaluated using the Peter 4-day suppressive test and the Rane curative test. Mice were group into 6 groups of 6 mice each. For the antioxidant test, parameters such as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and nitric oxide (NO) were assessed. The livers of mice were crushed and centrifuged in order to be measured. Aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) and alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) using the Dutch Diagnostics Kit and blood were collected for haematological parameters. The ethanol extract showed a suppressive activity of 78.12%, 75.30%, and 68.69% at 500 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg, and 125 mg/kg, respectively. Similarly, the curative activity showed a statistically significant reduction in parasitemia (p < 0.05). Antioxidant parameter assays showed a low value of MDA and a high value of SOD, CAT, NO, and GSH in the negative control group. A statistically significant higher values of ASAT and ALAT were observed in the negative control compared to the other test groups (p < 0.05). Haematological parameters showed a statistically significant decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, haemoglobin, and platelets in the negative control group (p < 0.05). The results of this study justify the traditional usage of Khaya grandifoliola in the treatment of cerebral malaria. However, in vivo toxicity assessment is still necessary to verify its safeness.

Prognostic value of first pass perfusion transit time beyond the pulmonary circulation

Abstract Background Pulmonary transit time (PTT), defined as the time required for a bolus of contrast agent to pass from the right cavities to the left cavities, is an emerging parameter reflective of cardiopulmonary hemodynamics that can be measured in first-pass perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). Transit times along the left heart (LHTT) and perfusion times of peripheral organs have not been explored so far. Purpose To assess the prognostic value of LHTT and peripheral organs perfusion time in a cohort of patients with left ventricular (LV) disfunction. Methods 50 consecutive patients with LV disfunction (ejection fraction ≤45%) and 56 normal controls who underwent a CMR at our institution were selected. Transit time was calculated as the peak-to-peak time interval between two different areas of the cardiovascular system. PTT was assessed between right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle. LHTT was assessed between left atrium and ascending aorta. Myocardial perfusion time (MyoPT) was measured between left ventricle and the peak of myocardial perfusion. Peripheral organ perfusion (kidney, KPT; spleen, SPT and liver, LPT) between abdominal aorta and the peak organ perfusion. The primary end point was a composite of cardiovascular death, hospitalization, ventricular arrhythmias and the need of any cardiac invasive intervention within the first year. Results Compared with controls, LV disfunction patients presented higher PTT (7.4 [5.9-8.4] vs 11.9 [9.5-13.9] s, p&amp;lt;0.001), LHTT (1.9 [1.05-2.3] vs 3.3 [1.9-4.8] s, p&amp;lt;0.01), MyoPT (9.9 [7.8-11.5] vs 13.1 [9.7-18.6] s, p&amp;lt;0.01), KPT (9.4[7.8-11.2] vs 11.5[8.3-15.5] s, p = 0.012). SPT showed a non-significant trend (9.4[8.1-11.9] vs 11.5[7.9-13.4]s , p = 0.058) . There were no differences in LPT (28.9[24.4-35] vs 33.3[23.3-41.1] s, p = 0.267). Among the patients with LV disfunction, 16 subjects reached the composite end-point; compared to those who did not, these patients had significant higher values of PTT (10.1 [8.7-13.7] vs 13.4[10-15.7] s, p = 0.04), LHTT (2.3[1.8-4] vs 4.3 [3.3-5.8] s, p = 0.008) and MyoPT (10.5[8.8-17.5] vs 13.3[11.9-20.5] s, p = 0.049). SPT showed a non-significant trend (10.3[6.9-12.6] vs 12.6[10.9-17.1] s, p = 0.078), KPT and LPT showed no significant differences. Patients with worse prognosis also presented lower LV ejection fraction (LV: 34.7± 9.5 vs 25.5±9 %, p&amp;lt;0.001) but no significant differences in RV ejection fraction: 52.9±14 vs 49.3±13.8 %, p = 0.473). Due to the small number of events we did not performed a multivariate analysis. KPT showed a weak but significant positive correlation with the creatinine measured at the time of the CMR study (r = 0.262, p = 0.024) and also at follow-up (r = 0.247, p = 0.042). Conclusions Transit time is a surrogate marker of the heamodynamic status that can be assessed beyond the pulmonary circulation. LHTT and organ perfusion times are markedly altered in patients with LV disfunction and are associated with poor prognosis.

The Clinical Relevance of Selected Cytokines in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Patients.

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological neoplasm. Cytokines, chemokines, and their receptors, induced by the microenvironment of MM, participate in tumor growth, the attraction of leukocytes, cell homing, and bone destruction. This study aimed to assess the correlation between the pretreatment serum concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), angiogenic chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the clinical outcomes and survival of patients newly diagnosed with MM. The study group consisted of 82 individuals. The IL-8 concentration was significantly positively correlated with the age of onset (p = 0.007), the International Staging System (ISS) stage (p = 0.03), the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (p < 0.001), the degree of anemia before treatment (p < 0.0001), the degree of kidney disease (p < 0.001), and VEGF (p = 0.0364). Chemotherapy responders had significantly lower concentrations of IL-8 (p < 0.001), IL-6 (p < 0.001), and VEGF (p = 0.04) compared with non-responders. Patients with treatment-induced polyneuropathy had significantly higher levels of IL-8 (p = 0.033). Patients with a high level of IL-6 had a 2-fold higher risk of progression-free survival (PFS) reduction (17 vs. 35 months; HR = 1.89; p = 0.0078), and a more than 2.5-fold higher risk of overall survival (OS) reduction (28 vs. 78 months; HR = 2.62; p < 0.001). High levels of IL-6, IL-8, and VEGF demonstrated significant predictive values for some clinical conditions or outcomes of newly diagnosed MM patients. Patients with an early response to chemotherapy had a significantly lower concentration of these cytokines. A high pretreatment IL-6 concentration was an independent negative prognostic marker for newly diagnosed MM patients.

Prognostic impact of inflammation in myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries

Abstract Background The prognosis of patients with myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is worse than that of the general population. Nevertheless, the predictors for a worse outcome in patients with MINOCA are not fully determined. Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in MINOCA patients. Methods Retrospective analysis of 706 consecutively admitted patients due to acute myocardial infarction (AMI), in whom coronary angiography revealed absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (≥50% stenosis). CRP levels were measured at admission. Demographic characteristics, symptoms at presentation, past medical history, laboratory characteristics and medication at discharge were examined. The primary endpoint analysed was all-cause mortality at 5 years. Possible predictors of the endpoint were assessed by Cox regression models. When statistically significant values were found in univariable analysis, multivariate analysis was used to determine whether CRP was an independent predictor of the outcome. Results In the studied sample, 55% of the patients were male. Median age was 64 [interquartile range (IQR) 55–72] and median body mass index was 27.3 kg/m2 (IQR 24.6-30.1). Regarding past medical history, 76.5% were hypertensive, 77.8% were dyslipidemic, 12.6% were smokers, 37.4% were diabetic and 59.3% had a previous history of angina. At presentation, 94.8% were in Killip 1, 3.8% were in Killip 2, 1% were in Killip 3 and 0.4% were in Killip 4. At admission, median CRP was 0.38 mg/dL (IQR 0.14-0.81), median Troponin I was 0.09 ng/ml (IQR 0.04-1.65), median creatinine was 0.85 mg/dL (IQR 0.73-1), median low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was 121.5 mg/dL (IQR 97.5-146), median haemoglobin was 13.6 g/dL (IQR 12.5-14.6) and median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 58% (IQR 50-60). At discharge, 74.2% had a beta-blocker prescribed, 88.4% had a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (RASi) prescribed, 98.2% had a statin prescribed and 76.5% had aspirin prescribed. All-cause mortality at 5 years was 8.5%. In univariable analysis, CRP was significantly associated with the endpoint [hazard ratio (HR) 1.138 per 1 mg/dL increase, 95% CI 1.090–1.188, p&amp;lt;0.001], as was age, diabetes, Killip class, troponin I, creatinine, LDL-C, haemoglobin, LVEF and absence of prescription of RASi. In multivariate analysis, CRP remained significantly associated with the endpoint (HR 1.141, 95% CI 1.087–1.199, p&amp;lt;0.001), as did age, creatinine and absence of prescription of RASi. Conclusions CRP at admission seems to be an independent predictor of all-cause mortality at the 5-year mark. This could indicate that inflammation has an important role in the pathophysiology and prognosis of MINOCA patients. It would be interesting to investigate if targeting inflammation would improve the long-term prognosis of these patients.

Unraveling the electrochemical charge storage dynamics of defective Oxides-Based cathodes toward High-Performance aqueous Zinc-Ion batteries

Aqueous Zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) show tremendous potential for large-scale energy storage infrastructure owing to high affordability and high safety but are plagued by the undesired rate capability and inevitable capacity deterioration of the used cathodes. Defect engineering has been recognized as one of the most effective strategies for the electrochemical performance enhancement of cathodes. However, its underlying electrochemical kinetics and performance-enhancing mechanism are still immature. Herein, we performed comprehensive studies on the charge storage dynamics with the prototypical of defective manganese oxides (d-ZMO) by combining the three-dimensional (3D) Bode map and theoretical calculations. Bode analysis reveals that the d-ZMO exhibits the most significant values of real capacitance and the largest phase angle compared to that of the pristine MnO2 (MO) electrode, demonstrating the validity of defects on the electrochemical kinetic enhancement. Further theoretical results indicate the lowest zinc ions diffusion energy barrier (0.52 eV) of d-ZMO (1.23 eV of MO) with significantly enhanced ion kinetics, corroborating well with the Bode analysis. As expected, the configured AZIBs with d-ZMO cathode deliver an appreciable specific capacity of 419.7 mAh·g−1 (at 0.1 A·g−1) and exceptional cycle stability with capacity retention of 81.76 % (at 3 A·g−1) after 1000 cycles.

Stressing the importance of plant specialized metabolites: omics-based approaches for discovering specialized metabolism in plant stress responses.

Plants produce a diverse range of specialized metabolites that play pivotal roles in mediating environmental interactions and stress adaptation. These unique chemical compounds also hold significant agricultural, medicinal, and industrial values. Despite the expanding knowledge of their functions in plant stress interactions, understanding the intricate biosynthetic pathways of these natural products remains challenging due to gene and pathway redundancy, multifunctionality of proteins, and the activity of enzymes with broad substrate specificity. In the past decade, substantial progress in genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics has made the exploration of plant specialized metabolism more feasible than ever before. Notably, recent advances in integrative multi-omics and computational approaches, along with other technologies, are accelerating the discovery of plant specialized metabolism. In this review, we present a summary of the recent progress in the discovery of plant stress-related specialized metabolites. Emphasis is placed on the application of advanced omics-based approaches and other techniques in studying plant stress-related specialized metabolism. Additionally, we discuss the high-throughput methods for gene functional characterization. These advances hold great promise for harnessing the potential of specialized metabolites to enhance plant stress resilience in the future.

Abstract 18785: Prognostication of Neurological Outcomes in Cardiac Arrest Patients Based on Novel Serum Biomarkers

Introduction and Hypothesis: Patients with post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) rely on precise and timely diagnosis for good clinical outcomes. Our study sought to evaluate novel serum parameters' diagnostic and clinical efficacy in prognosticating neurological outcomes in post-cardiac arrest syndrome patients. Methods: 345 patients with cardiac arrest treated with target temperature management were enrolled in this retrospective, multicenter study. Blood samples were drawn and evaluated at a period of 0, 1, 2, and 3 days. Samples were analyzed for conventional biomarkers; S100 calcium-binding protein (S-100B) and neuron-specific enolase, and for novel biomarkers; ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), neurofilament light chain (NFL), and tau load. Patients were followed up for neurological outcomes over 6 months period Results: 328 patients completed the study in which the mean age was 68.4 years, and 23% were female. Normal values for NFL, UCH-L1, and tau proteins showed the highest sensitivity (91.8-96% of patients with poor neurological outcomes had abnormal values) and negative predictive value (90-94.5% with good neurological outcomes had normal values). Overall, all the novel biomarkers had independent statistically significant values for the diagnosis of clinical outcome (p&lt;0.005). The area under the curves of the novel serum biomarkers was highest at 72 h post-cardiac arrest (0.913 for NFL, 0.88 for tau, 0.961 for GFAP, and 0.947 for UCH-L1). Conclusions: Our study concluded that low levels of novel serum biomarkers are associated with good neurological outcomes. The reliability of these novel biomarkers highlights that they should be included in baseline laboratory investigation for better prognostication of neurological outcomes in patients with PCAS.

Simultaneous determination of dopamine and uric acid based on electrocatalytic oxidation of Cu2O-Au and polyaniline nanocomposites

Effective detection of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) has significant diagnostic values, while the analytical methods with high convenience, distinguishability and sensitivity still need to be developed. A highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor based on a polyaniline (PANI) nanocomposite embedding Au and Cu2O hybrid (PANI/Cu2O-Aux) with adjustable proportions of Cu2O and Au was developed for simultaneous detection of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) in the presence of high concentrations of ascorbic acid (AA) and other interferents. The Cu2O-Aux architecture improved the electrocatalytic activity by inducing a modifiable synergistic effect between Au and Cu2O. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) responses of DA and UA on modified electrodes of PANI/Cu2O-Aux showed remarkable enhancement compared to the single-component Au or Cu2O-decorated PANI. The optimal ratio of Cu2O: Au was 1:1, which gave the highest redox signals for DA and UA. The DPV response ranges of simultaneous detection were 0.01–200 μM for DA and 0.1–1000 μM for UA, with detection limits (S/N = 3) of 0.0076 μM and 0.035 μM, respectively. The sensor also exhibited excellent anti-interference and stability, and was successfully applied to measure DA and UA in human urine samples with high accuracy. This research demonstrates the tunability of catalytic properties in PANI/Cu2O-Aux nanocomposites by the integration of binary nanocatalysts, providing insights into both structural and practical aspects.

Genotype-by-Environment Interaction Analysis for Quantity and Quality Traits in Faba Beans Using AMMI, GGE Models, and Stability Indices.

Faba beans are considered one of the most important crops for animal feed. The genotype × environment interaction (GEI) has a considerable effect on faba bean seed production. The objectives of this study included assessing multiple locations and genotypes to understand how various ecosystems and faba bean genotypes relate to one another, and suggesting the ideal climatic conditions, crop management system, and genotypes so that they are carefully chosen for their stability. A 2-year experiment was conducted in order to define the stability across four environments based on stability indices for certain characteristics: moisture (%), ash content (%), crude protein content (%), crude fat (%), total starch (%), and crude fiber content (%). Statistically significant differences indicated that GEIs were present. The heritability was generally high for qualitative traits in comparison with quantitative traits. The crude protein content, plant height, and thousand-seed weight were all positively correlated with the seed yield; however, the other qualitative variables were adversely correlated. The crude protein content of the cultivar Tanagra displayed a high stability index, followed by Ste1. Under conventional management, Tanagra demonstrated high values for the seed yield in Giannitsa and Florina. Ste1 and Ste2 are particularly promising genetic materials that showed high values under low-input conditions. The best genotypes to use and the most favorable environments/types of cultivation were the Tanagra cultivar, followed by the Ste2 genotype, according to the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype plus genotype-by-environment (GGE) biplot models. Earliness showed significant heritability values and very high stability indices, again indicating qualitative behavior according to genetic parameters. With the exception of the number of pods per plant, which demonstrated low heritability while having excellent index values, traits like seed yield showed relatively low-stability-based heritability values. Global efforts aimed at improving the genetics of faba beans might benefit from genotypes that exhibit consistent yields in various conditions.

Immunoexpression of HER2 pathway related markers in HER2 invasive breast carcinomas treated with trastuzumab

PurposeWe evaluated the immunoexpression of potential markers involved in the HER2 pathway in invasive breast carcinoma with HER2 amplification treated with trastuzumab. MethodsSamples of ninety patients diagnosed and treated at two public Brazilian hospitals with overexpressed invasive carcinoma between 2009 and 2018 were included. Several markers (Bcl-2, CDK4, cyclin D1, EGFR, IGF1, IGF-1R, MDM2, MUC4, p16, p21, p27, p53, PTEN, RA, TNFα, and VEGF) were immune analyzed in the tumor by immunohistochemistry and then correlated with clinicopathological variables. ResultsTumor sample expression results determined potential markers of good prognosis with statistically significant values: cyclin D1 with a nuclear grade, and recurrence; IGF-1 with tumor size, and death; p16 with a response after treatment; PTEN with a response after treatment, and death. Markers of poor prognosis: p53 with histological, and nuclear grade; IGF-1R with a compromised lymph node. The treatment resistance rate after trastuzumab was 40%; the overall survival was 4.13 years (95% CI 5.1–12.5) and the disease-free survival was 3.6 years (95% CI 5.1–13.1). ConclusionsThe tumor samples profile demonstrated that cyclin D1, IGF-1, p16, and PTEN presented the potential for a good prognosis and p53 and IGF-1R for worse.

Purification of bioactive peptides from spent yeast autolysates

Spent brewer’s yeast have been described as an important source for bioactive peptides, with their properties well proven over the years. Besides the brewing sector, growing of large-scale processes on synthetic biology industry has generated a substantial amount of spent engineered yeast with further potential to be valued in a circular economy approach. In line with this perception, in this work, peptide-rich fractions were obtained from spent yeast peptide-rich extract autolysate (“ESY1”), using two different techniques, namely protein ultrafiltration and size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). Both methods allowed the production of different peptide fractions with diverse protein content, molecular weight distribution and peptides sequences. Overall, fractions with higher protein content and more purified reveal higher bioactivities, namely antihypertensive and anticholesterolemic, emphasizing that the purification process is an important step to include in production process of a dietary supplement with these specific features. In addition, significant antioxidant capacity values for peptide fractions purified by SEC were obtained, highlighting their potential use in economic sectors where antioxidant capacity has a massive impact, such as cosmetics.

Evaluation of the resistance of three maize varieties to Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) and Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner in the Tonkpi region (Man, Côte d’Ivoire)

BackgroundThe corn borer Ostrinia nubilalis and the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda larvae feed on the aerial parts of maize. It is responsible for significant yield losses and are therefore a cause of food insecurity. This study carried out to evaluate the resistance of three maize varieties (EV8766 SR-MRP, PR9131-SR, CEW-SR), in Tonkpi region’s, to S. frugiperda and O. nubilalis damages. Each maize variety seeds were sown on a one hectare plot subdivided into 6 elementary plots with 75 cm between rows and 40 cm between bunches. Sampling of S. frugiperda and O. nubilalis larvae on maize plants was carried out according to the FAO method, from the third to the fifth week after planting. Maize plants damaged, the intensity of infestation and the number of larvae on maize plants were recorded. Maize plants damaged by the insect pests were marked to avoid recounting. At maturity, 100 maize cobs were harvested per elementary plot, then the larvae number and the attacked cobs by S. frugiperda and O. nubilalis larvae were recorded.ResultsThe lowest damage rate by S. frugiperda were recorded in maize variety EV8766-SR-MRP (23.33%); while, the highest damage rate were in the varieties PR9131-SR (43.33%) and CEW-SR (55%). There are no significant difference values of the density of S. frugiperda larvae per maize plant attacked between the three varieties. The index of intensification of maize plant damaged by S. frugiperda larvae was lower for the variety EV8766-SR-MRP (7.50%) and was moderate for the varieties PR9131-SR (15.42%) and CEW-SR (21.67%). The damage rates of O. nubilalis larvae on maize cobs varied between 9.6 and 22.0%. These damage rates were higher for the varieties PR9131-SR (21.83%) and CEW-SR (17.50%) and were lower for EV8766-SR-MRP (9.66%). There was not significantly different from the density of O. nubilalis larvae per maize cob attacked between the three varieties. It was between 1 to 1.2 larvae. Crop losses were lower for EV8766 SR-MRP (10.228%) than those of PR9131-SR and CEW-SR (19.338%).ConclusionsThe maize variety EV8766-SR-MRP is found to be the best variety in the control of, O. nubilalis and S. frugiperda.

Analysis of Laboratory Parameters before the Occurrence of Hepatic Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome in Pediatric Patients after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Introduction: Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), also known as veno-occlusive disease of the liver, is a serious complication following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Early diagnosis and treatment with defibrotide can improve patient outcome. The pathogenesis is not fully understood, but it is obvious that some laboratory parameters are already changed before the onset of SOS. The aim of our retrospective study was to detect laboratory parameters following HSCT that can predict the occurrence of SOS. Methods: We analyzed 182 children with a median age of 7.2 years who underwent allogeneic or autologous HSCT for the first time and without defibrotide prophylaxis. Our study population consisted of 126 patients who received allogeneic HSCT (69.2%) and 56 patients who underwent autologous HSCT (30.8%). The stem cell sources were peripheral blood stem cells (50.5%) or bone marrow (49.5%) and the most frequent underlying diseases were solid tumors (34.1%), genetic diseases (19.2%), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (18.1%), and acute myeloid leukemia (13.7%). The diagnosis of SOS was based on the pediatric criteria of European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation. We investigated the following 15 laboratory parameters after HSCT before the onset of SOS: international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), reptilase time, factor VIII, factor XIII, von Willebrand factor (vWF), von Willebrand factor activity (vWF activity), fibrinogen, antithrombin III, protein C, protein S, D-dimer, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), bilirubin, and ferritin. The last laboratory values within one week before the onset of SOS were analyzed in the SOS patient group. In the non-SOS patient group, we investigated the parameters for four weeks after transplantation and calculated the median. We selected cut-off values for the continuous parameters based on receiver operating characteristic curves analyses and existing reference values. We performed Mann-Whitney U test, univariate and multivariate analyses to find significant ( P &amp;lt; .05) associations between the values of laboratory parameters and the occurrence of SOS. The probability of developing SOS was calculated using the significant independent variables. Results: The overall incidence of SOS was 14.8% at a median time of 13 days after HSCT. SOS developed in 24 of 126 allogeneic (19.1%) and in 3 of 56 autologous (5.4%) HSCT patients. Only 3 out of 27 patients (11.1%) who suffered from very severe SOS died within 100 days after HSCT. In the univariate analysis, we found significant associations between the onset of SOS and the following parameters: INR ≥ 1.3, aPTT ≥ 40 sec, reptilase time ≥ 18.3 sec, factor VIII ≤ 80%, antithrombin III ≤ 75%, protein C ≤ 48%, D-dimer ≥ 315 µg/L, bilirubin ≥ 9 µmol/L, and ferritin ≥ 3100 µg/L. In multivariate analysis, we confirmed INR ≥ 1.3 [odds ratio (OR) = 8.104, P = .006], aPTT ≥ 40 sec (OR = 10.174, P = .001), protein C ≤ 48% (OR = 5.215, P = .014), and ferritin ≥ 3100 µg/L (OR = 7.472, P = .004) as independent risk factors after HSCT before SOS. If three of the four significant cut-off values were present, the probability of developing SOS was more than 70%. The probability of SOS was 96%, if all four laboratory parameters were changed according to the cut-off values. The values of factor XIII, vWF, vWF activity, protein S, fibrinogen, and ALT were not relevant for the occurrence of SOS. Conclusions: In summary, the laboratory parameters INR, aPTT, protein C, and ferritin were very useful to predict the occurrence of SOS. These four parameters can enable earlier diagnosis and treatment leading to an improved outcome. In addition, this is the first report on a significant association between SOS and high values of INR and aPTT after HSCT before SOS.

Extending the Baldrige excellence model for managing community-based social enterprise

Purpose This paper aims to help understand how community-based social entrepreneurs experience world-class “performance excellence” models and to explore the core values that enable social enterprises to become high-performance organizations. Design/methodology/approach Underpinned by Mindsponge processes, the proposed conceptual framework critiques the Baldrige criteria for performance excellence (BCPE) model in a global south context. The mixed-methods study fosters an in-depth analysis. First, it validates the BCPE mechanism in community-based social enterprises (CBSEs) before identifying the significant core values and concepts of BCPE that influence CBSEs to achieve high performance. Findings The BCPE, adapted from global north corporate principles and applied at a community level, can significantly develop global south organization performance excellence. Five core values and concepts from the 11 fundamental beliefs in driving performance excellence were found to support performance excellence in CBSE management. These values and concepts are “customer-focused excellence,” “social responsibility,” “systems perspective,” “visionary leadership” and “focus on success.” Research limitations/implications First, factors influencing performance excellence are not limited to the core values elements discussed. Future research may clarify factors extracted from the “Process” category of BCPE to explore further how CBSEs can enhance their performance in a different formation path. Second, this study only considered the Thai-Phuan community in Pho Tak village, Nong Khai, Thailand, to represent as a single case study. However, different, clustered or contrasting CBSEs in other regions remain open for further exploration to enrich the knowledge of “performance excellence” in a community organization. Finally, a longitudinal study would be a welcome addition. Practical implications The following must be considered. First is setting a clear direction: the organization’s vision and mission, by purposeful design, should ensure that CBSE managers are leading by example and demonstrating the importance of social and environmental value creation. Second is developing institutional culture: fundamental core values focused predominantly on “customer-focused excellence” and “social responsibility” encourage collaboration by “working together to drive success”. Third is developing integrated management system: CBSEs need to ensure that the management systems can collaborate and complement each component to create performance excellence. Fourth is creating a learning organization: CBSEs need to create a culture of continuous learning through data collection, measurement, analysis and modification. Social implications This study clarifies that the implementation of BCPE is crucial to the establishment of performance excellence at both macro- and micro-level organizations. According to the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the fundamental drivers of BCPE are the same for all types of organizations and in all sectors, whether in the private sector, education, health care or government (Blazey and Grizzell, 2021). By applying the Baldrige excellence model at the community level, this study found that CBSE can similarly strive for excellence and improved performance. This can lead to strengthened services, increased productivity and enhanced quality of life for the community. Originality/value This study provides a novel viewpoint on the Baldrige paradigm. Expressly, BCPE is compatible with global south community-based organizations to enhance performance excellence. Its essential contribution demonstrates that Baldrige model concepts are more widespread within smaller and underdeveloped territories than imagined. The recent (post-study) inclusion of “Community” as an independent sector in the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Awards validates the research findings and recommendations proposed by this study.

Policy support for the promotion of millets: Current status and its impact

The world is currently experiencing an agrarian crisis, nutritional crisis, and climate change catastrophe, leading to need for sustainable crop substitutes that require less water and have significant nutritional values. Millets are considered “climate savvy” and “Nutri-Cereals” due to their ability to adapt to dynamic climatic conditions and numerous health advantages respectively. They are crucial for maintaining people's health and well-being and can help in preventing disorders connected to modern lifestyles, such as diabetes and obesity. Various Government initiative have been taken to promoter millets. This paper discusses about some of the policies adopted by the Government for the promotion of millet, its impact, and future directions.

Predictive factors for abscessing tonsillitis: a retrospective analysis.

In clinical practice, identifying abscesses in tonsillar infections is crucial for early therapeutic management. Diagnosis of a peritonsillar abscess is usually based on clinical symptoms. Complementary examination procedures, such as laboratory parameters and imaging, are available for confirmation. A retrospective analysis was carried out of data for 752 patients who presented with acute tonsillar infection and were hospitalized between January 2012 and February 2021. The data analyses involved evaluating the patient's clinical symptoms, inflammatory parameters, and previous medical history in relation to the predictive power of these factors for the presence of an abscess. Predictor analysis for the presence of an abscess showed significant values for trismus (OR 2.392; 95% CI, 1.305 to 4.383; p=0.005) and palatal arch protrusion (OR 29.679; 95% CI, 17.460 to 50.447; p=0.000). The inflammatory parameter C-reactive protein and the leukocyte count were not statistically significant as predictors. The presence of a tonsillar abscess can be diagnosed from the clinical presentation alone if the findings are clear. Further diagnostic procedures are indicated in case of inconclusive findings, and ultrasound should be the primary noninvasive method. Computed tomography is only required in selected cases. Inflammatory parameters can be assessed in order to monitor therapy, but do not predict the presence of an abscess. However, if defined action sequences are being considered, tonsillar abscesses can be differentiated at an early point.