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Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is a root that allows healthy eating and combats malnutrition. There is a need for more productive sweet potato genotypes displaying good resistance and a favorable appearance and shape. New genotypes that are more productive, resistant to the main soil pests and with good physical characteristics would contribute to meet the needs of producers and the demands of consumers. The aim of this study was to develop and select sweet potato genotypes regarding agronomic and physical root parameters. The new genotypes were obtained through the cross-linking of 22 parents with commercial characteristics. Subsequently, 386 experimental genotypes were conducted in the field in an experimental design consisting of augmented blocks with intercalated controls. Aspects related to agronomic, physical root characteristics and resistance to Euscepes postfasciatus were explored. Genotypes with higher performance than the controls were identified for all assessed parameters. The genotypes UZBD-K-09, UZBD-K-56 and UZBD-K-78, with purple flesh roots, UZBD-F-15 and UZBD-F-34, with orange flesh, and UZBD-K-70, with a white flesh were selected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary intervention stands as a practical and cheap approach to solve Vitamin A deficiency (VAD), a major public health problem among children and pregnant women in Africa. Quality characteristics and consumer acceptability of cakes from blends of orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) flour and tiger nut (TN) fiber were investigated. OFSP and TN fiber were blended: A (100% OFSP), B (95% OFSP: 5%TN) and C (90% OFSP: 10%TN). Protein contents ranged from 4.93 to 5.92%, crude fiber from 3.78 to 4.10%, while energy contents ranged from 387.79 to 417.53 Kcal/100 g. Total dietary fiber ranged from 9.88 to 10.68%, insoluble dietary fiber ranged from 7.76 to 8.41%. Two-three servings of developed cakes showed potential to meet recommended daily vitamin A requirement for both children and adult. Cakes from 95%OFSP: 5% TN was most preferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet potatoes (SPs) are considered by the FAO as a primary crop for "traditional agriculture" in the tropics, but in Europe, its consumption is not widespread. However, consumer demand has grown exponentially over the past five years. This study has evaluated the quality and nutrient contents of storage roots of 29 SPs accessions to characterize their role in improving the human diet. Roots were analyzed for nutraceuticals, sugars, and minerals. Results underlined a considerable variability of nutrient content related to color among SPs accessions. The deep-orange-fleshed SPs showed a higher content of β-carotene compared to the light orange- and cream-fleshed ones; 100 g of edible product of HON86 can supply 32.3% of the daily value contribution of vitamin A, followed by the pale orange-fleshed BRA32 and BRA54. The total phenolic content of the purple ecotypes was about two to five times higher than the other genotypes. The calcium content was generally low, whereas, in many accessions, magnesium and phosphorus content reached 20%, or higher of the contribution to the daily value. Such a high variability suggests different use of the different accessions according to their strengths, but might also be used for breeding to improve quality traits of the commercial varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycrystalline Ni0.3Cu0.2Zn0.5Fe2O4 and Ni0.3Cu0.2Zn0.5Sc0.05Fe1.95O4 compounds have been prepared by standard solid-state reaction technique and sintered at 1000, 1100, 1150, 1200, and 1250 °C for 5 h in air. The effect of sintering temperature on the structural, morphological, magnetic, dielectric, and electrical properties of these spinel ferrites has been studied thoroughly and comparatively. Formation of the single-phase cubic spinel structure of these compositions is confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. The lattice constant increases with sintering temperature as well as with 5% scandium (Sc3+) doping in Ni–Cu–Zn ferrite. Surface morphology reveals that the grain size increases with sintering temperature. Among the prepared ferrites, Ni0.3Cu0.2Zn0.5Sc0.05Fe1.95O4 has the maximum density (5.05 × 103 kg/m3) at sintering temperature 1150 °C, which gives the highest value of initial permeability. It is observed that initial permeability varies with sintering temperature, and it gives the maximum value at optimum sintering temperature. It is noted that Curie temperature decreases with 5% Sc3+ ions doping, whereas it slightly increases with increasing sintering temperature for both compositions. Ni0.3Cu0.2Zn0.5Fe2O4 compound shows the highest Curie temperature 418 °C. Dielectric constant, dielectric loss factor and AC electrical conductivity decrease with 5% Sc3+ ions doping in Ni–Cu–Zn ferrite. The initial permeability decreases sharply at Curie temperature, which indicates a high degree of compositional homogeneity. The 'Hopkinson' peak is observed just below the Curie temperature in the real part of initial permeability versus temperature graphs. The mechanism of dielectric polarization and electrical conductivity has been explained based on the electron hopping between Fe3+ and Fe2+ ions. The variation trend of complex impedance and AC electrical conductivity reveals the semiconducting behavior of the ferrite samples. Formation of partial semicircles in the Z/-axis indicates that relaxation process is non-Debye type. The investigated ferrites show relatively high initial permeability, low magnetic loss, and low electrical conductivity in a wide frequency range, which make them potential candidate for various practical applications such as small and compact power suppliers for computers, microprocessors, microwave electronic devices, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-sterile latex disposable gloves (NSLDGs) can prevent infections, but may also cause them if improperly used. Aim: To study NSLDGs bacterial contamination and the effect of hand hygiene reminder notices. Methods: A controlled interventional study was conducted through a quantitative bacterial sampling of NSLDGs (n = 160 gloves) obtained from boxes immediately after they were opened (baseline contamination) and 48 hours afterwards (per-intervention), and after hand hygiene reminder notices were placed (post-intervention). Bacteria were isolated and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and antibiotic sensitivity testing. Findings: Pre-intervention contamination was found to be 90% and 65% for skin commensals and pathogens, respectively. Post-intervention contamination by skin commensals and pathogens declined to 70% and 15%, respectively, representing a significant reduction in the prevalence of pathogens (p = 0.0006244). The average number of colony-forming units per glove pair was also reduced, from 57.05 to 4.95 (p = 1.5 × 10-5) and from 16.1 to 0.65 (p = 0.003374), for skin commensals and pathogenic bacteria, respectively. Discussion: NSLDGs are potential pathogen transmission vehicles. Hand hygiene reminder notices placed on glove boxes can lead to reductions in bacterial contamination levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acinetobacter, a nonfermenting Gram-negative coccobacilli, have emerged as significant pathogens causing multidrug-resistant (MDR) ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL)-producing Acinetobacter spp. have become an emerging therapeutic concern worldwide due to the MDR isolates. Aim and Objectives: Phenotypic detection of MBL producing MDR Acinetobacter isolates in patients with VAP and to study the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of MBL-producing isolates. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational and noninterventional study conducted on patients with VAP over a period of 2 years. This study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital in the intensive care unit. A total of 164 MBL-producing MDR AB isolates were included in the study. MBL was detected by imipenem-EDTA double-disc synergy test (DDST), imipenem-EDTA combined disc synergy test (CDST-IPM), and MBL-E test. Results: A total of 188 samples were enrolled for the study, fulfilling the inclusion criteria of VAP. Total MDR Acinetobacter spp. isolates were 188 (76.42%) of them, 164 (87.23%) were MBL producing and 24 (12.76%) were nonMBL (P < 0.002). Total 11.17% and 88.83% MDR VAP due to Acinetobacter spp. were early-onset VAP and Late-onset VAP, respectively (P < 0.001). Late-onset VAP due to MDR Acinetobacter spp. was predominant in the present study caused by Acinetobacter spp. Of total 188 MDR Acinetobacter isolates, 156 (82.98%) were Acinetobacter baumannii, 15 (7.98%) were Acinetobacter iwoffii, 9 (4.79%) were Acinetobacter calcoacetiucs, 5 (2.66%) were Acinetobacter hemotyticus, and 3 (1.59%) were ABC complex, predominated by A. baumannii (P < 0.001). Of total 188 MDR Acinetobacter spp. 164 (87.23%) were putative MBL producing and 24 (12.67%) were nonMBL Acinetobacter spp. Of 164 MBL-producing isolates, 141 (85.98%) were detected by the DDST method, and 23 (14.02%) were DDST negative. Total 146 (89.02%) MDR Acinetobacter spp. were detected by a combined disc test-IMP test. A total of 152 (92%) MDR Acinetobacter spp. were detected by MBLe-Test. All MBL-producing MDR Acinetobacter spp. isolates (164) were resistant to piperacillin (PI), piperacillin + tazobactam (PIT), ciprofloxacin (CIP), ceftazidime (CAZ), cefepime (CPM), imipenem (IMP), and meropenem (MRP). The tigecycline (21.34%) resistance was significantly less compared to all other antibiotics. Conclusions: The present study highlighted the burden of MDR MBL producing Acinetobacter spp. in patients with VAP. About three-fourth of patients with VAP had MDR Acinetobacter spp. Eighty percent were MDR Acinetobacter spp. were MBL producers. MDR Acinetobacter isolates, including MBL producer, were significantly higher in late-onset VAP. The ability of phenotypic identification of Acinetobacter spp. for MBL producer among imipenem-EDTA double-disc synergy test (DDST), CDST-IPM and MBL-E Test were comparable. All MBL-producing MDR Acinetobacter spp. isolates were resistant to PI, Ciprofloxacin, CAZ, CPM, IMP, and MRP. The tigecycline resistance was significantly less (1/5th). The study of antibiotic sensitivity patterns and screening for MBL production among A. baumannii isolates is essential for controlling Acinetobacter infections. The judicious use of antimicrobial therapy and combined approaches of rotational antibiotic therapy is strongly suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report the influence of Co2+ on structure and magnetic properties of nano-sized Li0.5−x/2Fe2.5−x/2CoxO4(where x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0) synthesized using sol–gel auto-combustion method. The X-ray diffractometric analysis of samples confirmed the formation of pure Li0.5−x2Fe2.5−x2CoxO4 nanoparticles ranges crystallite size from 36 to 43 nm with co-doping. There is a structural transformation from ordered P4332 to random Fd3m observed, which is caused by the localization of cobalt ions. RT-Mössbauer the showed presence of 57Fe in both sublattices. Position identification was performed based on the distribution of the over exchange fields and isomeric shift data. Magnetic measurements showed that the saturation magnetization increases to x ≤ 0.8 and then decreases with Co-content due to the change in cationic distribution. The cobalt substitution turns Li–Co ferrite from soft-magnet to hard-magnet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sequelae of unrestrained IL-36 signaling: The IL-36 receptor integrates signals from three proinflammatory IL-36 agonist ligands opposed by one natural antagonist (IL-36Ra). Hovhannisyan et al. developed mice humanized for the extracellular portion of IL-36R and the IL-36 agonists (α, β, and γ) to evaluate anti-inflammatory treatment using antibodies blocking the human IL-36R. The mouse version of IL-36Ra retained by these mice is a weaker inhibitor at the human IL-36R than its human counterpart, leaving these mice susceptible to enhanced skin and intestinal inflammation after epithelial barrier insults. Antibodies blocking the IL-36R or the shared p40 subunit of IL-12/IL-23 interrupted an overlapping set of proinflammatory circuits in these mice, indicating that IL-36R–targeting therapeutics are candidates to treat some of the same human diseases responsive to inhibition of the IL-23/IL-17 axis. Deficiency in interleukin-36R (IL-36R) antagonist caused by loss-of-function mutations in IL-36RN leads to DITRA (deficiency of IL-36 receptor antagonist), a rare inflammatory human disease that belongs to a subgroup of generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP). We report a functional genetic mouse model of DITRA with enhanced IL-36R signaling analogous to that observed in patients with DITRA, which provides new insight into our understanding of the IL-36 family of molecules in regulating barrier integrity across multiple tissues. Humanized DITRA-like mice displayed increased skin inflammation in a preclinical model of psoriasis, and in vivo blockade of IL-36R pathway using anti-human IL-36R antibody ameliorated imiquimod-induced skin pathology as both prophylactic and therapeutic treatments. Deeper characterization of the humanized DITRA-like mice revealed that deregulated IL-36R signaling promoted tissue pathology during intestinal injury and led to impairment in mucosal restoration in the repair phase of chronic dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)–induced colitis. Blockade of IL-36R pathway significantly ameliorated DSS-induced intestinal inflammation and rescued the inability of DITRA-like mice to recover from mucosal damage in vivo. Our results indicate a central role for IL-36 in regulating proinflammatory responses in the skin and epithelial barrier function in the intestine, suggesting a new therapeutic potential for targeting the IL-36R axis in psoriasis and at the later stages of intestinal pathology in inflammatory bowel disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In view of increasing concerns with antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the World Health Organization (WHO) instituted a Global Action Plan (GAP) to address this. Area covered: One of the strategies to achieve the goals of GAP is to conduct regular surveillance of antimicrobial use through point prevalence surveys (PPS). In this review, PubMed, EBSCO, Proquest, Cinahl, and Scopus were searched for PPS of antimicrobial use published in English between January 2000 and December 2019. After systematic database screening of 2,893 articles, 60 PPS met the inclusion criteria and consequently were incorporated in this systematic review. Expert opinion: This review highlighted that most of the PPS were conducted in upper-middle and high-income countries. Prevalence of antimicrobial use was significantly higher in non-European hospitals compared with European hospitals. The domination of third-generation cephalosporin and fluoroquinolones use across all the regions suggests substantial use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials across countries. Among all identified regions around the world, India was the region where the highest use of antimicrobials was observed. Although PPS is a useful tool to assess the pattern of antimicrobial use and provides a robust baseline; however, a standardized surveillance method is needed. In order to optimize antimicrobial use, more efforts are required to improve antimicrobial use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two magnetic nanocomposites were prepared from spinel ferrite magnetic nanoparticles NiFe2O4 (NF) and ZnFe2O4 (ZF) with MgFe2O4 (MF) using citrate precursor method. The X-ray diffraction confirmed that the structure of all the samples was a single phase of spinel ferrites with space group Fd-3m. The determined lattice parameter (a) is within the expected values of MF, NF, and ZF. The grain size of all the nanocomposites obtained from the high resolution transmission electron microscope images showed that all the samples are in the nanoscale. The vibrating sample magnetometer was used to investigate the magnetic properties. An unexpected value of saturation magnetization (MS) was obtained for both NF@MF and ZF@MF where NF@MF is less than NF and ZF@MF is higher than of ZF. Self-heating characteristics under an alternating current magnetic field of 9.27 km−1 and a frequency of 198 kHz were investigated for hyperthermia applications. The results show an upward trend for the samples in the temperature vs. time chart, as a result of increasing in MS of the samples where the NF@MF has the highest values of SAR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have identified the best harvesting periods, related to higher bioactive compound content and post‐harvest quality, for minimally processed sweet potatoes with orange pulp and cream pulp. Quality loss in minimally processed sweet potatoes occurred due to browning in cv. Mãe de Familia and ESAM1 and to whitening in cv. Paraná. Both Mãe de Família and ESAM1 presented higher peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activities at 120 days, and cv. Paraná contained high levels of provitamin A. β‐carotene was the major carotenoid (up to 99%) in orange pulp. All cultivars harvested at 150 and 180 days and minimally processed showed the best visual quality, the highest bioactive compound content, and no microbial infection. Delaying the harvest also increase the antioxidant activity in orange roots, which was associated with a high content of carotenoids and phenolic compounds, resulting in an increase in the nutritional quality of the product. Practical applications: Postharvest techniques can improve the visual and phytochemical quality of vegetables and extend their shelf life. The present research provides the best harvesting periods for minimally processed cream and orange sweet potato roots with higher postharvest qualities. Delaying the harvest resulted in a product with better visual quality, higher levels of bioactive compounds, which are highly beneficial to health, for example, ß‐carotene, and no microbiological contamination. Our results may contribute to improvements in the current knowledge about harvesting times for sweet potato growers who aim to produce high quality, minimally processed products with a longer shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of baking, frying, and extrusion on the chemical composition and in vitro bio‐accessibility of beta‐carotene in orange‐fleshed sweet potato (flour and paste). The vitamin B1, B2, B6, and B9 contents in the samples fell within the range of 32.85–35.22 µg/100 g, 84.35–151.85 µg/100 g, 46.75–54.35 µg/100 g, and 7.65–21.55 µg/100 g, respectively. The fried paste had the highest beta‐carotene content (1,093.64 µg/100 g) when compared to the fresh root (116.12 µg/100 g) and would contribute approximately 22.8%, 11.4%, and 10.72% of the Recommended Daily Allowance for Vitamin A (µg RAE/100 g) of children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers, respectively. Frying of OFSP in the paste/puree form showed the highest bio‐accessible beta‐carotene (342.48 µg/g) compared to the fresh root (57.72 µg/g) and other samples (263.22–330.83 µg/g). Extrusion gave the highest protein content while baking yielded better mineral retention levels. Processing methods, as well as the form in which OFSP was processed did have a significant effect on the nutrient composition of the final product. Frying is nonetheless encouraged for dietary plans targeted at alleviating Vitamin A deficiency. Practical applications: Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) has gained considerable popularity as an intervention crop for Vitamin A Deficiency (VAD) and hunger driven states. This work has shown the possibility of utilizing OFSP paste and flour using simple processing methods that can be employed by commercial food industries and even at household levels. OFSP flour or paste could be incorporated in pastries, bakery goods, extruded snacks, and local food recipes. Frying of OFSP paste was identified as the best processing method to yield the highest beta carotene content and higher bio‐accessibility. This would help in addressing the problem of malnutrition and Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in affecting developing countries. Also, the knowledge from this work is important in planning diets targeted at addressing VAD and also informing nutritionists, consumers, and producers on the effect of processing on the nutrient composition of OFSP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of 1 − x (Al0.2La0.8TiO3) + x (BaTiO3) (x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8)/ALTBT nanocomposites were prepared via the hydrothermal technique at 150 °C/6 h. The phase identification and structural transformation from tetragonal to cubic were confirmed using the X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD). Particularly, the low BaTiO3 contents (x = 0.2 and 0.4) revealed the tetragonal structure, while the high BaTiO3 contents (x = 0.6 and 0.8) showed the predominant cubic phases. Furthermore, the nanorod-like surface morphology was evidenced from the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The optical properties ensured the presence of metal oxide (M–O) bonds and wide optical bandgap (Eg ~ 3.975–3.899 eV) values. The frequency dependence of dielectric properties was described as a function of composition. The results expressed that the high dielectric constant (ε′) of 260.8 was noticed at 10 kHz for x = 0.8 composite. The dc-electrical conductivity (σdc) and exponent (n) parameters were determined by applying power law fit to the log σac versus log ω plots. The temperature dependence of dielectric constant plots indicated the dielectric transition temperature from 723 to 623 K with the increase of 'x'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a series of silver-doped Mg–Mn ferrite nanoparticles, Mg0.9Mn0.1AgxFe2−xO4 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2), has been synthesized by solution combustion method and effects of Ag+ ions on the structural, electrical, magnetic as well as optical properties have been investigated. The phase recognition has been confirmed by utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD) study. The particle size and strain has been estimated using the Williamsons–Hall plots, while Nelson–Riley plots have been utilized to predict the lattice parameter. An increase in the particle size (17.5–21.8 nm) and lattice parameter (8.37–8.39 Å) has been viewed with the adding up of Ag+ ions. Incorporation of Ag+ ion has decreased the resistivity and has produced a normal dispersion curve in the dielectric properties. The M–H study has confirmed an increase in the saturation magnetization (16.9–22.7 emu/g), which has reflected the strengthening of magnetic exchange interactions with the addition of silver content in the Mg–Mn ferrite nanoparticles matrix. The bandgap estimated from the Tauc plots has been viewed to decrease (6.08–4.85 eV) by the rise in silver ions content. Raman spectroscopy study has predicted a slight shift in the Raman modes towards the lower frequency. The electric and dielectric properties have been explained in the light of Verwey's hopping mechanism and Maxwell–Wagner model, respectively. The obtained magnetic parameters have suggested that present nanoferrites are quite suitable for electromagnet application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Dietary fibre is known to provide health benefit and protect against degenerative chronic diseases. Thus, the present study reports the total dietary fibre (TDF) content of sixty-nine selected ethnic and unconventional vegetables and fruits growing in Bangladesh. The samples were collected from different locations of Bangladesh and mixed together to ensure sample representativeness. Dietary fibre assay kit according to the AOAC method was utilized for the analysis of TDF in selected vegetables and fruits. In the ethnic varieties, the TDF content ranged from 1.02 ±0.16 to 7.16 ±0.16 g for leafy (LV), 0.18 ±0.01 to 6.71 ±0.49 g for non-leafy vegetables (NLV) and 1.21 ±0.12 to 5.29 ±0.20 g for fruits per 100 g edible portion (EP). In the unconventional items, it arrayed from 3.08 ±0.34 g to 7.75 ±0.13 g for LV and 1.02 ±0.06 to 8.82 ±0.40 g for NLV per 100 g EP. Among the analysed samples, the highest and lowest content of TDF was found in Orohordal and Mairabokong, respectively. The unconventional vegetables contained much higher content of TDF than the ethnics and the commonly consumed similar varieties. Data on TDF content in underutilized vegetables and fruits of Bangladesh is sparse. Thus, the finding of this study would fill up the data gap in the existing food composition table of Bangladesh and also would aware the people to take vegetables and fruits rich in fibres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, lead-free (1 − x) [Ni0.25Cu0.15Zn0.60Fe2O4] (NCZFO) + (x) [Na1/3Ca1/3Bi1/3Cu3Ti4O12] (NCBCTO) (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 1.0) were synthesized via solid state reaction route and sintered at 1000 and 1050 °C. The phase compositions and surface morphology of the composites were investigated using standard techniques. XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed the successful formation of the composites without any impurity phases. The SEM analysis disclosed that the average grain size was decreased as the NCBCTO content increases at both sintering temperatures. The exhibition of the dielectric https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/permittivity dispersion is ascribed to the Maxwell–Wagner interfacial polarization. At 1050 °C, the x = 0.05 composite exhibits giant dielectric constant which is attributed to the increased density. AC conductivity study ascertains that the conduction mechanism is mainly accounted for the small polaron hopping. Complex impedance and electric modulus studies ascertain the non-Debye type relaxation mechanism. The permeability increases up to certain proportion of NCBCTO and deteriorates with further increase in NCBCTO content at both sintering temperatures. The increment is accounted for the improved grain size and density while the decrement is attributed to the magnetic dilution caused by the excess amount of NCBCTO. The Q-factor increases up to certain proportion of NCBCTO and decreases with further increase in NCBCTO. The increment in Q-factor is a consequence of the reduced resistivity at the grain boundaries while the deterioration is ascribed to the increased resistivity. Therefore, it can be said that addition of proper concentration of NCBCTO to NCZFO can prove the electromagnetic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated some quality attributes of composite flours, dough and bread from wheat flour substituted with orange-fleshed sweetpotato (OFSP) flour at 0–30% levels. Chemical, functional and pasting properties of flours, rheological properties of dough, as well as chemical composition and physical properties of bread were determined. Protein content of composite flours decreased by 25.51–37.37% at 10–30% OFSP flour substitution. Flour composites were higher in ash (2.12–2.33%), crude fibre (3.28–4.34%), water (1.45–2.08 ml/g) and oil (1.45–1.67 ml/g) absorption capacities. Wheat flour (100%) had maximum peak viscosity of 117.71 Rapid Visco Units (RVU) which decreased by 0.71–30.80% with OFSP flour substitution. Dough from composites had higher hydration (82.15–112.10%) and breakdown torque (0.38–0.42 Nm) but lower stability (1.16–2.38 min), protein weakening (0.06–0.37 Nm), starch gelatinization (0.46–0.81 Nm), stability of hot gel (0.04–0.43 Nm) and starch retrogradation (0.46–0.81 Nm). Bread substituted with OFSP flour had higher total carotenoids (1565.50–5179.27 µg/100 g), weight (193.74–198.50 g) and crumb moisture (27.81–27.91%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide variety of the roots and tubers plays a major role in human diet, animal feed, and industrial raw materials. Sweet potatoes (SPs) play an immense role in human diet and considered as second staple food in developed and underdeveloped countries. Moreover, SP production and management need low inputs compared to the other staple crops. The color of SP flesh varied from white, yellow, purple, and orange. Scientific studies reported the diversity in SP flesh color and connection with nutritional and sensory acceptability. Among all, orange‐fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) has been attracting food technologists and nutritionists due to its high content of carotenoids and pleasant sensory characteristics with color. Researchers reported the encouraging health effects of OFSP intervention into the staple food currently practicing in countries such as Uganda, Mozambique, Kenya, and Nigeria. Scientific reviews on the OFSP nutritional composition and role in vitamin A management (VAM) are hardly available in the published literature. So, this review is conducted to address the detailed nutritional composition (proximate, mineral, carotenoids, vitamins, phenolic acids, and antioxidant properties), role in vitamin A deficiency (VAD) management, and different food products that can be made from OFSP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genomic data visualization is essential for interpretation and hypothesis generation as well as a valuable aid in communicating discoveries. Visual tools bridge the gap between algorithmic approaches and the cognitive skills of investigators. Addressing this need has become crucial in genomics, as biomedical research is increasingly data‐driven and many studies lack well‐defined hypotheses. A key challenge in data‐driven research is to discover unexpected patterns and to formulate hypotheses in an unbiased manner in vast amounts of genomic and other associated data. Over the past two decades, this has driven the development of numerous data visualization techniques and tools for visualizing genomic data. Based on a comprehensive literature survey, we propose taxonomies for data, visualization, and tasks involved in genomic data visualization. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive review of published genomic visualization tools in the context of the proposed taxonomies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micronutrient deficiency is the cause of multiple diseases in developing countries. Staple crop biofortification is an efficient means to combat such deficiencies in the diets of local consumers. Biofortified lines of sweet potato (Ipomoea batata L. Lam) with enhanced beta-carotene content have been developed in Ghana to alleviate Vitamin A Deficiency. These genotypes are propagated using meristem micropropagation to ensure the generation of virus-free propagules. In vitro culture exposes micropropagated plants to conditions that can lead to the accumulation of somaclonal variation with the potential to generate unwanted aberrant phenotypes. However, the effect of micropropagation induced somaclonal variation on the production of key nutrients by field-grown plants has not been previously studied. Here we assessed the extent of in vitro culture induced somaclonal variation, at a phenotypic, compositional and genetic/epigenetic level, by comparing field-maintained and micropropagated lines of three elite Ghanaian sweet potato genotypes grown in a common garden. Although micropropagated plants presented no observable morphological abnormalities compared to field maintained lines, they presented significantly lower levels of iron, total protein, zinc, and glucose. Methylation Sensitive Amplification Polymorphism analysis showed a high level of in vitro culture induced molecular variation in micropropagated plants. Epigenetic, rather than genetic variation, accounts for most of the observed molecular variability. Taken collectively, our results highlight the importance of ensuring the clonal fidelity of the micropropagated biofortified lines in order to reduce potential losses in the nutritional value prior to their commercial release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucus represents a major barrier to sustained and targeted drug delivery to mucosal epithelium. Ideal drug carriers should not only rapidly diffuse across mucus, but also bind the epithelium. Unfortunately, ligand‐conjugated particles often exhibit poor penetration across mucus. In this work, we explored a two‐step "pretargeting" approach through engineering a bispecific antibody that binds both cell‐surface ICAM‐1 and polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the surface of nanoparticles, thereby effectively decoupling cell targeting from particle design and formulation. When tested in a mucus‐coated Caco‐2 culture model that mimics the physiological process of mucus clearance, pretargeting increased the amount of PEGylated particles binding to cells by around 2‐fold or more compared to either non‐targeted or actively targeted PEGylated particles. Pretargeting also markedly enhanced particle retention in mouse intestinal tissues. Our work underscores pretargeting as a promising strategy to improve the delivery of therapeutics to mucosal surfaces. I′ve been slimed! Densely PEGylated nanoparticles can rapidly diffuse across mucus but fail to specifically bind the underlying cells. By engineering a novel PEG‐binding bispecific antibody, a two‐step pretargeting approach was developed to increase the delivery of PEG‐coated mucus‐penetrating particles (PEG‐MPPs) to mucus‐covered epithelium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallic acid (GA) is a naturally occurring plant phenolic acid with moderate affinity for BSA, but its presence in different concentrations may change the thermal stability of the protein. The present study explores the effect of GA on the thermal denaturation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) using calorimetric and spectroscopic tools. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and circular dichroism spectroscopy (CD) results indicated that GA binding increased the protein intramolecular packing and induced higher thermal stability. Turbidity variations over time proved that GA binding promotes aggregation of a BSA fraction, partially unfolded by the thermal treatment. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements pointed to a protective effect of GA for the monomeric form of the protein coupled with enhancing large size aggregate formation. This dual effect of GA is reported for the first time in the present study. The obtained results contain significant information concerning the thermal behavior of the GA–BSA system. They offer a fresh insight into the designing of new compounds with potential inhibitor activity on protein aggregation, with applications in life sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cognition of original qualitative attributes of native Peruvian chili peppers elucidate their potential industrial exploitation. There is a lack of scientific information about chili pepper physicochemical and nutritional attributes, that hampers their immediate industrial use. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to characterize twenty Peruvian chili pepper landraces in terms of structural and nutritional properties. In particular, the Bostwick consistency index of chili purées, dry matter, dietary fibers and pectin content were determined. In addition, the color and carotenoid profile of each landrace were studied. A wide range of consistency and stability were found, and partially explained by the dry matter, dietary fiber and pectin content. C. annuum landraces displayed the highest dry matter and fiber content. Moreover, different carotenoid profiles were observed, being β-carotene the most abundant in almost all the samples. Capsanthin was present only in red landraces, while yellow ones had low total carotenoid content. High Retinol Activity Equivalent levels were determined for red peppers, while high insoluble dietary fiber level was found in all the samples. Cluster analysis, including all the chili pepper attributes, showed no relation between taxonomical classification and chili peppers structural, sensorial, and nutritional characteristics. Unique features of studied chili pepper landraces presented in this work should be considered during their industrial processing. In this context, these results might be considered a starting point for processing design and for the proper valorization of this raw material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, polycrystalline (1 − y) [Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3] (BCZTO) + (y) [Ni0.92Co0.03Mn0.05Cu0.05Fe1.95−xAlxO4] (NCMCFAlxO) (where x = 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9 and y = 0.5) composites were synthesized via solid state reaction route. The samples were characterized through the standard techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the successful formation of the BCZTO-NCMCFAlxO composites without any extra phases and diffusion. The lattice parameter of BCZTO and NCMCFAlxO decreases as the concentration of Al3+ increases. SEM analysis reveals that the microstructure exhibits nonuniform grain size distribution with Al3+ concentration. The dispersion of dielectric constant is well consistent with Maxwell-Wagner interfacial polarization and the dielectric constant decreases as the concentration of Al3+ ions increases due to the difference of ionic radii. The electrical conductivity is due to the small polaron hopping according to Austin-Mott model. The decrement in saturation magnetization with increasing Al3+ concentration because exchange interactions is weakened through the substitution of Fe3+ by Al3+ ions. Permeability decreases with Al3+ concentration and exhibits good frequency stability over the entire measured frequency domain. The magnetoelectric coupling coefficient decreases as the concentration of Al3+ increases at both sintering temperatures which is due to the variation of grain size. The maximum magnetoelectric voltage coefficient of 0.72 V Oe−1 cm−1 was obtained for the pristine composite at 1373 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The increase demand for poultry products has had direct effect on the supply and price of feed. This has increased research interest into the potential of locally available, less competed and low cost materials as feed ingredients. Several peels from roots/tubers and fruits have been evaluated in poultry diets but recommendations have not been consistent. High fibre, low nutrient density and likely presence of antinutritional factors limit the efficient utilisation of peel meal by poultry. Plant cultivar, age, agronomic practices, method of peel processing, breed and age of poultry all affect the inclusion level of peel meal in poultry diets. The increase interest in breeding crops for low antinutrients, knowledge in processing technologies and availability of several additives such as enzyme products, amino acids and antinutrients binding agents in the feed market could improve the usefulness of peel meal in on‐farm poultry rations. This study reviews the potential of selected root/tuber and fruit peels as feed ingredients for poultry with regards their composition, dietary recommendation and prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gadolinium (Gd3+) substituted zinc ferrite nanoparticles (ZnFe2−xGdxO4) for Gd3+ (x = 0.00, 0.05, 0.10, 0.20) have been synthesized by honey mediated sol-gel auto-combustion method. The X-ray diffraction study revealed the formation of spinel ferrite crystal structure. The Raman spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study well support the XRD results analysis. The field emission scanning electron microscopy micrograph revealed spherical morphology and grain size around 10-30 nm for ZnFe2−xGdxO4 (x = 0.10) nanoparticles. The presence of Zn2+ and Fe3+ oxidation state in synthesized nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Magnetic properties of the Gd3+ substituted zinc ferrite nanoparticles were investigated by vibrating sample magnetometer at room temperature. The conversion of magnetic hysteresis curves from ferromagnetic to a paramagnetic with the substitution of Gd3+ in zinc ferrite nanoparticles was observed. Frequency dependent dielectric constant and ac conductivity measurements revealed that Gd3+ substitution improved the value of dielectric constant and ac conductivity of the Gd3+ substituted zinc ferrite nanoparticles. Further, the existence of two semicircles in Cole-Cole plot demonstrated the role of both grains and grain boundaries to conduction process in synthesized Gd3+ ion substituted zinc ferrite nanoparticles. Furthermore, the grain relaxation time (τg), grain boundary relaxation time (τgb), grain resistance (Rg), grain capacitance (Cg), grain boundary resistance (Rgb) and grain boundary capacitance (Cgb) for synthesized ZnFe2−xGdxO4 (x = 0.00, 0.05, 0.10, 0.20) nanoparticles have been calculated using modulus spectroscopy analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional medical sensors/monitors can measure pressure, airflow, force, oxygen, pulse, temperature, etc. On the other hand, medical imaging sensors - for example, X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) - play an essential role in checking the anatomic structure, functional, and physiological processes of the body. We believe that medical sensors and body area networks complement each other, with the ultimate goal of providing better services for patients and doctors. [Extracted from the article]

Scope: Konjac glucomannan oligosaccharides (KMOS) are prebiotics and may improve intestinal immunity through modulation of macrophage function. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms were unclear., Methods and Results: Using a mouse model of dextran sulfated sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis, the study demonstrates here that KMOS (400 mg -1 kg -1 d -1 ) can ameliorate intestinal inflammation in a macrophage dependent manner. Oral exposure to KMOS prevents DSS-induced intestinal pathology, improves epithelial integrity, and decreases accumulation of colonic inflammatory leukocytes and cytokines. The therapeutic effects of KMOS are dependent on the function of macrophages, as depletion of macrophages abolished the effects. In colonic lamina propria of DSS-treated mice, as well as in vitro culture of bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDMs), KMOS skews reprogramming of classically activated macrophages (CAM/M1) into alternatively activated macrophages (AAM/M2). The study further determines that the activation of SIGNR1/phospho-c-Raf (S338)/phospho-p65 (S276)/acetyl-p65 (K310) pathway is responsible for KMOS-induced AAM/M2 polarization. Blockage of SIGNR1 abolishes KMOS-induced AAM/M2 polarization of activated macrophages, expression of phospho-p65 (S276) in colonic macrophages, and alleviation of DSS-induced colitis in mice, suggesting that SIGNR1 is critical for macrophage responses to KMOS., Conclusions: This study reveals a SIGNR1-mediated macrophage-dependent pathway that supports regulatory function of KMOS in host immunity and intestinal homeostasis., (© 2021 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

The targeted pharmacological modulation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) is of major medical interest. These innate immune cells play a central role in the defense against pathogenic microorganisms. However, their excessive chemotactic recruitment into tissues after traumatic injury is detrimental due to local and systemic inflammation. Rho-GTPases, being the master regulators of the actin cytoskeleton, regulate migration and chemotaxis of PMNs, are attractive pharmacological targets. Herein, supramolecular protein complexes are assembled in a "mix-and-match" approach containing the specific Rho-inhibiting clostridial C3 enzyme and three PMN-binding peptides using an avidin platform. Selective delivery of the C3 Rho-inhibitor with these complexes into the cytosol of human neutrophil-like NB-4 cells and primary human PMNs ex vivo is demonstrated, where they catalyze the adenosine diphosphate (ADP) ribosylation of Rho and induce a characteristic change in cell morphology. Notably, the complexes do not deliver C3 enzyme into human lung epithelial cells, A549 lung cancer cells, and immortalized human alveolar epithelial cells (hAELVi), demonstrating their cell type-selectivity. The supramolecular complexes represent attractive molecular tools to decipher the role of PMNs in infection and inflammation or for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for diseases that are associated with hyperactivity and reactivity of PMNs such as post-traumatic injury., (© 2019 The Authors. Published by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

There is an increasing focus on researching children admitted to hospital with new variants of COVID-19, combined with concerns with hyperinflammatory syndromes and the overuse of antimicrobials. Paediatric guidelines have been produced in Bangladesh to improve their care. Consequently, the objective is to document the management of children with COVID-19 among 24 hospitals in Bangladesh. Key outcome measures included the percentage prescribed different antimicrobials, adherence to paediatric guidelines and mortality rates using purposely developed report forms. The majority of 146 admitted children were aged 5 years or under (62.3%) and were boys (58.9%). Reasons for admission included fever, respiratory distress and coughing; 86.3% were prescribed antibiotics, typically parenterally, on the WHO 'Watch' list, and empirically (98.4%). There were no differences in antibiotic use whether hospitals followed paediatric guidance or not. There was no prescribing of antimalarials and limited prescribing of antivirals (5.5% of children) and antiparasitic medicines (0.7%). The majority of children (92.5%) made a full recovery. It was encouraging to see the low hospitalisation rates and limited use of antimalarials, antivirals and antiparasitic medicines. However, the high empiric use of antibiotics, alongside limited switching to oral formulations, is a concern that can be addressed by instigating the appropriate programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) cause increases in length of stay, mortality, and healthcare costs. A previous study conducted in Taiwan obtained similar results to those reported in Korea and Japan in 2015. Changes in microorganisms have been noted in recent years. Understanding the recent condition of HAIs in intensive care units (ICUs) can enable healthcare providers to develop effective infection control protocols to reduce HAIs. Methods: We used the Taiwan Nosocomial Infection Surveillance System to evaluate the incidence densities of HAIs, the proportions of causative pathogens, and the proportions of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The Poisson regression model was constructed to incidence density, and the chi-square test was used to assess proportion. Results: The incidence density of HAIs decreased 5.7 to 5.4 per 1000 person-days. However, the proportions of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterococcus faecium significantly increased. In addition, the proportions of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium significantly increased over time. Conclusion: Analysis of the microorganisms involved in HAIs in ICUs showed elevated proportions of K. pneumoniae and E. faecium with AMR. Infection control protocols have been implemented for several years and require improvements regarding environmental cleanliness and medical staff prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel therapies for the treatment of COVID-19 are continuing to emerge as the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic progresses. PCR remains the standard benchmark for initial diagnosis of COVID-19 infection, while advances in immunological profiling are guiding clinical treatment. The SARS-Cov-2 virus has undergone multiple mutations since its emergence in 2019, resulting in changes in virulence that have impacted on disease severity globally. The emergence of more virulent variants of SARS-Cov-2 remains challenging for effective disease control during this pandemic. Major variants identified to date include B.1.1.7, B.1.351; P.1; B.1.617.2; B.1.427; P.2; P.3; B.1.525; and C.37. Globally, large unvaccinated populations increase the risk of more and more variants arising. With successive waves of COVID-19 emerging, strategies that mitigate against community transmission need to be implemented, including increased vaccination coverage. For treatment, convalescent plasma therapy, successfully deployed during recent Ebola outbreaks and for H1N1 influenza, can increase survival rates and improve host responses to viral challenge. Convalescent plasma is rich with cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-8), CCL2, and TNFα, neutralizing antibodies, and clotting factors essential for the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Clinical trials can inform and guide treatment policy, leading to mainstream adoption of convalescent therapy. This review examines the limited number of clinical trials published, to date that have deployed this therapy and explores clinical trials in progress for the treatment of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various microencapsulation techniques can result in significant differences in the properties of dried microcapsules. Microencapsulation is an effective approach to improve fish oil properties, including oxidisability and unpleasant flavour. In this study, β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and fish oil were co-encapsulated by microfluidic-jet spray drying (MFJSD), two-fluid nozzle spray drying (SD), and freeze-drying (FD), respectively. The aim of the current study is to understand the effect of different drying techniques on microcapsule properties. Whey protein isolate (WPI) and octenylsuccinic anhydride (OSA) modified starch were used as wall matrices in this study for encapsulating carotenoids and fish oil due to their strong emulsifying properties. Results showed the MFJSD microcapsules presented uniform particle size and regular morphological characteristics, while the SD and FD microcapsules presented a large distribution of particle size and irregular morphological characteristics. Compared to the SD and FD microcapsules, the MFJSD microcapsules possessed higher microencapsulation efficiency (94.0–95.1%), higher tapped density (0.373–0.652 g/cm3), and higher flowability (the Carr index of 16.0–30.0%). After a 4-week storage, the SD microcapsules showed the lower retention of carotenoids, as well as ω-3 LC-PUFAs than the FD and MFJSD microcapsules. After in vitro digestion trial, the differences in the digestion behaviours of the microcapsules mainly resulted from the different wall materials, but independent of drying methods. This study has provided an alternative way of delivering visual-beneficial compounds via a novel drying method, which is fundamentally essential in both areas of microencapsulation application and functional food development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing urbanization in developing countries has resulted in busier lifestyles, accompanied by consumption of fast foods. The consequence is an increased prevalence in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Food-based approaches would be cheaper and more sustainable in reducing these NCDs compared to drugs, which may have side effects. Studies have suggested that consuming functional foods could potentially lower NCD risks. Sweetpotato is regarded as a functional food because it contains bioactive compounds. Recently, sweetpotato has gained attention in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), but research has focused on its use in alleviating micronutrient deficiencies such as vitamin A deficiency, particularly the orange-fleshed variety of sweetpotato. Some studies conducted in other parts of the world have investigated sweetpotato as a functional food. There is a need to characterize the sweetpotato varieties in SSA and determine how processing affects their bioactive components. This review highlights some of the studies conducted in various parts of the world on the functionality of sweetpotato, its bioactive compounds, and how these are influenced by processing. In addition, the potential health benefits imparted by sweetpotato are expounded. The knowledge gaps that remain in these studies are also addressed, focusing on how they can direct sweetpotato research in SSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

H13 die steel often fails as a result of physical and chemical effects such as wear, erosion and cyclic stress. Accordingly, the study evaluates Co-based gradient coating on an H13 steel featuring a stress-relieving effect. Scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction were used to analyze the microstructure and phase of the coatings. A microhardness tester and friction and wear tester were used to compare the hardness and wear resistance of the coatings and the substrate, and the wear morphology was observed. A pendulum impact test was used to compare the impact resistance of the coatings and the substrate, and the fracture morphology was observed. Finally, a corrosion test was used to compare the corrosion resistance of coatings and substrate. The results show that the Co-based gradient coatings have good combinations with the substrate, the hard phase content gradually increases from the bottom to the top of the coating, and the crystal microstructure generally maintains a distribution trend from coarse to fine. The hardness of the gradient coatings is significantly higher than the substrate, and from the coating surface to the substrate, the hardness decreases slowly. The wear loss of the coatings is much lower than that of the substrate, the main wear mechanism of the substrate is abrasive wear, and the main wear mechanism of the coatings is brittle spalling. While the gradient coatings increase the surface hardness, the brittleness also increases, the impact resistance of the coatings is lower than that of the substrate, the fracture form of the substrate is a ductile fracture, and the fracture form of the coating is a brittle fracture. The gradient coatings effectively improve the corrosion resistance of the substrate surface, and the higher the content of the reinforcing phase, the better the corrosion resistance of the coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids and folate are two mandatory supplying micronutrients for children or pregnant women. Inadequate intake of these two nutrients was relevant to a higher mortality of both children and pregnancies. This study is intended to investigate the thermal impact on the changes of carotenoids and folate in sweet potato roots (SPRs). Carotenoids were identified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) while the folate was estimated using a microbial assay. An obvious decline was observed in total carotenoids after heating. Nevertheless, the content of provitamin compound β-carotene exhibited incredible stability during steaming and α-carotene multiplied in certain varieties, evidencing that SPRs could be an efficient way for addressing Vitamin A deficiency (VAD). As for the total folate contents, two varieties were found no significant loss after thermal process while the others showed a significant decrease. The results indicated that steaming process led to generally loss of both carotenoids and folate while the α-carotene and β-carotene were well preserved. The information provided by this study might help with enhancing the food quality in processing industry and the understanding in the nutrition changes during steaming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local mRNA therapy encoding inflammatory cytokines and T cell costimulator OX40L mediates persistent anticancer immunity across tumor models. Sending tumors a message: T cells need to overcome an immunosuppressive environment for successful cancer immunotherapy. Hewitt et al. leveraged a platform for mRNA delivery to devise a combination of factors that would ramp up antitumor immunity. They found that intratumoral injection of mRNAs encoding OX40L, IL-36γ, and IL-23 led to tumor regression in several cancer models. The triplet therapy also rendered normally resistant tumors susceptible to checkpoint blockade. The specific immune components responsible for protection were also dissected, and they showed that this local therapy led to systemic immunity. This mRNA treatment could one day be translated for patient benefit. Many solid cancers contain dysfunctional immune microenvironments. Immune system modulators that initiate responses to foreign pathogens could be promising candidates for reigniting productive responses toward tumors. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-12 cytokine family members cooperate at barrier tissues after microbial invasion, in human inflammatory diseases, and in antitumoral immunity. IL-36γ, in classic alarmin fashion, acts in damaged tissues, whereas IL-23 centrally coordinates immune responses to danger signals. In this study, direct intratumoral delivery of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) encoding these cytokines produced robust anticancer responses in a broad range of tumor microenvironments. The addition of mRNA encoding the T cell costimulator OX40L increased complete response rates in treated and untreated distal tumors compared to the cytokine mRNAs alone. Mice exhibiting complete responses were subsequently protected from tumor rechallenge. Treatments with these mRNA mixtures induced downstream cytokine and chemokine expression, and also activated multiple dendritic cell (DC) and T cell types. Consistent with this, efficacy was dependent on Batf3-dependent cross-presenting DCs and cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. IL-23/IL-36γ/OX40L triplet mRNA mixture triggered substantial immune cell recruitment into tumors, enabling effective tumor destruction irrespective of previous tumoral immune infiltrates. Last, combining triplet mRNA with checkpoint blockade led to efficacy in models otherwise resistant to systemic immune checkpoint inhibition. Human cell studies showed similar cytokine responses to the individual components of this mRNA mixture, suggesting translatability of immunomodulatory activity to human patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]