bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytochemical Screening of Aqueous, Ethanolic and Methanolic Extracts of Morus mesozygia Linn. Stapf., Leaves
Authors: Joshua Marcella Tari , Nwachukwu Edna O. , Boisa N. , Nduka Nsirim
Published: September 2020

Aim: This study focused on the phytochemical screening of aqueous, ethanolic and methanolic leaf extracts on the species Morus mesozygia linn.

Study Design: This study was a cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out at the Plant Anatomy and Physiology Research Laboratory, University of Port Harcourt, between July, 2018 and November, 2018.

Methodology: Morus mesozygia linn leaves were collected and washed with distilled water, air dried for seven days and milled into fine powder. Maceration method was use to extract the powdered leaf into a brownish paste using three different solvents; distilled water, ethanol and methanol. The different plant extracts were subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening for alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, carbohydrates, tannins and anthraquinones. Quantitative phytochemical analysis was done using a Gas chromatography – Mass Spectroscopy machine.

Results: Results showed that the powdered Morus mesozygia linn leaves contained alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, carbohydrates, tannins, but not anthraquinones. The methanolic and aqueous leaf extracts contained high amounts of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, carbohydrates and tannins, while the ethanolic extract also contained high amounts of the aforementioned phytochemicals in the same proportion, but had saponins in moderate amounts. The result of the GC-MS analysis showed that the three extracts contained complex compounds in varying amounts.

Conclusion: Phytochemical screening test of Morus mesozygia has revealed the presence of the substances like alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, oils, phenolic compounds, tannins and some complex compounds discovered using GC-MS technique.
The Diagnostic Efficacy of MRI Dedicated-Epilepsy Protocol in Evaluation of Seizures
Authors: Saad Rawa , Baddour Fawaz , Saeed Hala
Published: September 2020

Aims: The aims of this study were to identify the diagnostic efficacy of dedicated epilepsy protocol in detecting possible structural abnormalities that underlie seizure disorders, and compare the diagnostic yields of MRI and electroencephalogram individually and in combination.

Study Design: This was a cross-sectional analytic study.

Place and Duration of Study: Medical Imaging and Diagnostic Radiology Department at Tishreen University Hospital, Lattakia, Syria; between July 2019 and July 2020.

Methodology: Our study included 100 cases (58 females, 41 males, age range 13-77 years) who presented with seizure over 18 months. Patients underwent complete neurological examination, EEG, and MRI with a standard and dedicated epilepsy protocol.

Results: We found epileptogenic lesions in MRI in 55.5%. MRI detected epileptogenic lesions in 74.5% patients who had focal onset seizures. Mesial temporal lobe sclerosis was the most common epileptogenic lesion (45.5%). The diagnostic efficacy of MRI had increased with dedicated epilepsy protocol compared to standard protocol. Abnormal MRI and EEG were compatible in 21%.

Conclusion: Dedicated epilepsy protocol increased the diagnostic efficacy of brain MRI in detecting a structural epileptogenic lesion, with 100% of mesial temporal sclerosis, the most common lesion in our study, was detected only in dedicated epilepsy protocol and missed in standard protocol.
Recognising Fetal Compromise in the Cardiograph during the Antenatal Period: Pearls and Pitfalls
Authors: Pereira Susana , Ingram Caron , Gupta Neerja , Singh Mandeep , Chandraharan Edwin
Published: September 2020

There are several national and international guidelines to aid the interpretation of the cardiotocograph (CTG) trace during labour. These guidelines are based on assessing changes in the fetal heart rate (i.e. cardiograph) in response to mechanical and hypoxic stresses during labour secondary to ongoing frequency, duration and strength of uterine contractions (i.e. tocograph). However, during the antenatal period, uterine contractions are absent, and therefore, these intrapartum CTG guidelines cannot be used to reliably identify fetuses at risk of compromise. Computerised analysis of CTG using the Dawes-Redman Criteria could be used to detect fetal compromise. However, clinicians should be aware of the multiple pathways of fetal damage (i.e. inflammation, infection, intrauterine fetal stroke, chronic fetal anaemia, acute feto-maternal haemorrhage and fetal cardiac or neurological disorders) which can cause changes on the CTG trace which may not be recognised by using CTG guidelines.
Modeling of Gauss Elimination Technique and AHA Simplex Algorithm for Multi-objective Linear Programming Problems
Authors: Jain Sanjay , Mangal Adarsh
Published: September 2020

In this research paper, an effort has been made to solve each linear objective function involved in the Multi-objective Linear Programming Problem (MOLPP) under consideration by AHA simplex algorithm and then the MOLPP is converted into a single LPP by using various techniques and then the solution of LPP thus formed is recovered by Gauss elimination technique. MOLPP is concerned with the linear programming problems of maximizing or minimizing, the linear objective function having more than one objective along with subject to a set of constraints having linear inequalities in nature. Modeling of Gauss elimination technique of inequalities is derived for numerical solution of linear programming problem by using concept of bounds. The method is quite useful because the calculations involved are simple as compared to other existing methods and takes least time. The same has been illustrated by a numerical example for each technique discussed here.
Epidemiology of Enterococcal Infections in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Ezeah G. A. C. , Ugwu M. C. , Ibe C. O. C. , Ike O. C. , Ekundayo A. O.
Published: September 2020

Enterococci despite being a normal commensal is of great health concern since it can become virulent. Hence the study investigated the prevalence of Enterococci infection and two tertiary health institutions (Enugu State University of Technology (ESUT) Teaching Hospital, Parklane and University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku/Ozalla in Enugu State) were used. Isolation and identification were based on standard procedures and biochemical tests. The results showed that age ranges of 21-25years 10(14.7%) and 26-30 years 8(11.8%) had the highest prevalence. Also, more females were infected by the organism than males though the difference was not statistically significant (p= 0.371).The possible predisposing factor showed that 16(23.5%) were unknown while 10(14.7%), 6(8.8%), 14(20.6%), 9(13.2%), 8(11.8%) and 5(7.6%) were catheterization, surgery, pregnancy, Diabetes, HIV/AIDS and previous history of enterococcal infection, respectively. The frequency of enterococcal isolates from different specimens showed that 24(35.3%) of the isolates were from urine samples, 12(17.6%) were from high vaginal swab, 7(10.2%) were from ear swab and wound swab respectively, 4(5.9%) were from urethral swab and aspirates respectively and 2(2.9%) were from sputum samples. Furthermore, departmental sources of enterococcus sp. isolated showed that 21(30.9%) were from Surgery department followed by general out-patients department 14(20.6%), Urology 8(10.3%), Gynaecology 7(10.3), Medicine 6(8.8%), Antenatal, Children out-patients, Neurology and Children Emergency Department had 3(4.4%) each. Also, 41(60.3%) out of the 68 isolates were nosocomially acquired and 27(39.7%) isolates were community acquired. There was no significant difference (p= 0.486) when nosocomially acquired enterococcal isolates were compared with community acquired enterococcal isolates. Monthly frequencies of the isolates showed that July had the highest frequency 10(14.7%) followed by the month of May 7(10.3%). April, August and October had 6(8.8%) respectively. February, March November and December had 5(7.4) respectively; January and September had 4(5.9%) respectively while June had 3(4.4%). Seasonal comparison (rainy and dry season) of the distribution of the isolates within the years of the study showed that rainy season had 38 number of isolates while dry season had 30 number of isolates and there was no significant difference between the frequencies of occurrence in the two seasons (p= 0.271). Therefore, there is an increasing prevalence of Enterococci and can be hospital acquired, screening for this organism is important in hospital setting.
Numerical Simulation of Blood Flow in a Vessel by Using COMSOL Multiphysics® Software
Authors: Salem S. F. , Tuchin V. V.
Published: September 2020

Dynamics of the blood flow play an important role in the development and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In recent decades, blood flow simulation has been widely used to better understand the symptomatic spectrum of different diseases, in order to improve existing or develop new therapeutic techniques. Numerical simulation for biomagnetic fluid (such as blood) flow through a tube with rectangular cross section under the influence of magnetic field is studied in this work. Blood considered as a magnetic and incompressible fluid. The magnetic field effects on the blood stream in a tube are created by a permanent magnet outside the tube. The equations of motion which describe the flow is governed by the combination of magnetic equations for permanent magnet and Navier-Stokes equation for fluid (blood) were solved numerically by using COMSOL Multiphysics® Modeling Software.
Evaluation of Pre Released Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes under Different Sowing Dates in Rainy Season
Authors: Anil D. , Siddi Sreedhar
Published: September 2020

Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the pre released rice genotypes under different sowing windows on clay soils of agricultural research station, Kunaram, Telangana state, India during two consecutive rainy seasons of 2018 and 2019.The experiment was laid out in strip plot design with three replications. The treatments comprised of three sowing dates i.e. 20thJune, 5thJuly and 20thJuly in horizontal factor and four genotypes i.e. KNM 733, RNR 15048, KNM 1638 and KNM 118 in vertical factor. The pooled data results indicated that, among the genotypes the genotype KNM 1638 sown on 5th July recorded maximum growth parameters and highest grain yield (7455 kg ha-1) and followed by sown on 20th June. In respect of economics of treatment combinations, the highest net returns (Rs.75,326 ha-1), gross returns (Rs.1,35,326 ha-1) and B:C (2.26) ratio were obtained when rice crop was sown during 5th July with the  genotype KNM1638 and followed by sown on 20th June with the  genotype KNM 1638.
Comparative Proximate Nutraceutical Study of Poor Man’s Pulse, Horsegram [Macrotyloma uniflorum] with the Other Common Legume Crops: A Review
Authors: Kaundal Sumeet Parkash , Kumar Rahul
Published: September 2020

Horsegram is an underutilized drought hardy crop and mainly neglected by the farmers in Northern region of India. However, the present study reveals the hidden comparative analysis of nutraceutical use with well-known legumes like Phaseolus vulgaris, Vigna mungo, Cicer arietinum, Vicia faba, Cajanus cajan, Vigna radiata, Pisum sativum and Lens culinaris. This pulse crop is an excellent source of carbohydrate, protein and dietary fiber. This present study shows that amount of energy in horsegram falls in the range of 376.12-377.21 Kcal/100 g which is maximum than the other legumes. The ash, protein, dietary fibres, carbohydrates, fat and starch content of horse gram falls in the range (2.24% to 5.16%), (18.15% to 28.8%), (5% to 16.3%), (50% to 63.4%), (1.10 to 1.9%) and (31.86% to 47.5%) respectively. Horsegram is found to be less fat and more dietary food fibers than the most common legumes. Hence, it is an excellent source of food for diabetic patients and useful in weight management. The unique anti-uroliathiatic activity of horsegram is well known against calcium oxalate crystals, calcium phosphate crystals and uric acid crystals. Anticholelithiatic, Anti-histaminic, Hemolytic, Larvicidal, Proteinase inhibition and Anti-HIV are among other unique medicinal properties of horsegram which are not reported in any other legumes.
Hematological Changes in HCV Patients Treated with Different Sofosbuvir-Based Regimens
Authors: Khalek Ahmed Abdel , El-Deib Abdel Raouf , Tawfik Gamal , Soliman Nashaat , Mosaad Mohamed
Published: September 2020

Introduction: Treatment of HCV with direct acting antiviral agents (DAAs) with the different regimen dramatically changed the outcomes of the disease beside its eradication. In the same time hematological concerns as anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leucopenia were a major factor before initiation, or during treatment with the antiviral drugs.

Aim: To demonstrate hematological changes during and after treatment with different regimen of DAAs.

Methods: Follow up the hematological changes before, during and after treatment for 100 patients with chronic HCV treated with five different sofosbuvir-based regimen; using interferon, ribavirin, simeprevir and daclatasvir.

Results: There are no similar linear changes regarding anemia, leucopenia or thrombocytopenia, however, combination therapy using sofosbuvir with simeprevir or daclatasvir significantly increase platelets count, WBCs, and hemoglobin level during and after end of treatment, versus regimens uses sofosbuvir with ribavirin and or interferon that showed significantly decreased hematological values during and after treatment.

Conclusion: Sofosbuvir-based regimen has favorable hematological changes in patients with chronic HCV infection during and after treatments especially with sofosbuvir and daclatasvir.
Phytochemical Investigation and Characterization on the Leaf Extract of Prunus africana
Authors: Begeno Teshale Ayano , Teka Ashenafi Emiru , Bafa Temesgen Abera , Nassir Wollela Behja
Published: September 2020

Prunus africana (P. africana) is a geographically wide spread tree to forest habitats of the African continent. P. africana is one of the most popular plant in traditional medicine for threatening various ailments. It is mainly is used to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (BHP). The study aimed at phytochemical investigation and characterization on the leaves extract of P. africana. The air dried and powdered plant material (155 g) was first soaked with 500 ml n-hexane for 72 hours and yielded 1.3 g of n-hexane extract. Residue was soaked with 400 ml of ethyl acetate for 72 hours and afforded 1.8 g of ethyl acetate extract. Finally, residue was soaked with 400 ml of methanol and yielded 12.6 g of methanol extract. The ethyl acetate extract of the leaves of P. africana afforded a compound coded as CM whose structural determination was accomplished by means of spectroscopic techniques. The compound, CM was isolated and characterized from the leaves of P. africana. It was shown that spot on TLC only up on spraying 1% vanillin sulphuric acid and after heating for a few minutes. Generally, chromatographic techniques like PTLC and HPLC are required to isolate more compounds from leaves of P. africana. Also MS and 2D NMR spectroscopic techniques are needed to fully characterize the isolated compound.
Effect of ventilated workwear and working schedule on physiological and psychological responses of construction workers, no. 2: Actual investigation at an active construction site
Authors: Kuwabara Kouhei , Yamazaki Keita , Suga Shigeo , Kobayashi Koichiro , Hamada Yasuhiro , Takahashi Nao
Published: September 2020

Although the use of cooling garments to prevent heat disorders has been increasing, the effectiveness of such garments at construction sites (CSs) remains underexplored. We investigated the relationship between the thermal environment at a CS and the physiological and psychological responses of workers wearing/not wearing ventilated work wear (VWW). The study participants were rebar placers and form workers employed at an outdoor CS. The thermal environmental conditions and the physiological and psychological responses of the workers were measured. The overall, chest, and forearm skin temperatures of the workers not wearing VWW were significantly higher than those of workers wearing VWW. To clarify the effects of VWW and working schedules on body weight loss (BWL), the BWL rate was simulated based on the evaporation rate according to a regression formula of measured data in an artificial chamber. The BWL during the late shift was higher than that in the early shift, causing dehydration in the afternoon. To prevent this condition, more water intake is required during the late shift.
Flexible and Stretchable Microbatteries for Wearable Technologies
Authors: Nasreldin Mohamed , de Mulatier Séverine , Delattre Roger , Ramuz Marc , Djenizian Thierry
Published: September 2020

Soft microbatteries should rapidly emerge on the world market owing to the spectacular rise of wearable technologies that are needed to be powered. The field of applications is actually very large as the main sectors that will be impacted include Internet‐of‐things, printed electronics, e‐textile, medical devices, smart cards,… These specific micropower sources have to show high electrochemical performance and sustain various mechanical strains. They also have to fulfill harsh criteria in terms of size and fabrication processes to ensure their integration in functional devices. In this report, achievements on structural design, fabrication strategies, and performances of flexible and stretchable microbatteries are reviewed. The different strategies proposed to improve electrochemical and mechanical properties: creation of new designs, investigation of alternative microstructuring techniques, involvement of new nanomaterials, etc., are highlighted. The future prospects of these recent technologies are also discussed.
Electrohydrodynamic Jet Printing of 1D Photonic Crystals: Part II—Optical Design and Reflectance Characteristics
Authors: Iezzi Brian , Afkhami Zahra , Sanvordenker Shea , Hoelzle David , Barton Kira , Shtein Max
Published: September 2020

Additive manufacturing systems that can arbitrarily deposit multiple materials into precise, 3D spaces spanning the micro‐ to nanoscale are enabling novel structures with useful thermal, electrical, and optical properties. In this companion paper set, electrohydrodynamic jet (e‐jet) printing is investigated for its ability in depositing multimaterial, multilayer films with microscale spatial resolution and nanoscale thickness control, with a demonstration of this capability in creating 1D photonic crystals (1DPCs) with response near the visible regime. Transfer matrix simulations are used to evaluate different material classes for use in a printed 1DPC, and commercially available photopolymers with varying refractive indices (n = 1.35 to 1.70) are selected based on their relative high index contrast and fast curing times. E‐jet printing is then used to experimentally demonstrate pixelated 1DPCs with individual layer thicknesses between 80 and 200 nm, square pixels smaller than 40 µm across, with surface roughness less than 20 nm. The reflectance characteristics of the printed 1DPCs are measured using spatially selective microspectroscopy and correlated to the transfer matrix simulations. These results are an important step toward enabling cost‐effective, custom‐fabrication of advanced imaging devices or photonic crystal sensing platforms.
Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Vicente‐Ruiz Sonia , Serrano‐Martí Antoni , Armiñán Ana , Vicent María J.
Published: September 2020

Current prostate cancer (PCa) treatment options include hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy; however, a lack of targeting and overall efficiency has failed to improve survival rates or reduce unwanted side‐effects in advanced stage PCa patients. The modification of existing therapeutics, including their reformulation as nanomedicines, can increase stability in plasma, enhance tumor targeting, and improve pharmacokinetics to foster improvements in patient outcomes. This review now describes those nanomedicinal approaches to advanced PCa treatment under evaluation in both preclinical and clinical studies. Despite the current advantages provided by nanomedicine in PCa treatment, there exists the opportunity to improve the design of novel therapeutic approaches. Therefore, this review also highlights the importance of identifying novel functional biomarkers to stratify patients and guide nanomedicinal design. Finally, the authors describe strategies employed to enhance the passive accumulation of nanomedicines in tumors and discuss the enormous potential of combination therapies that target tumor cells and the all‐important tumor microenvironment to reduce tumor growth and overcome therapeutic resistance.
Tunable Cationic Vacancies of Cobalt Oxides for Efficient Electrocatalysis in Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Liu Xiaomeng , Zhao Lanling , Xu Haoran , Huang Qishun , Wang Yueqing , Hou Chuanxin , Hou Yuyang , Wang Jun , Dang Feng , Zhang Jintao
Published: September 2020

Vacancy engineering is one of the most effective strategies to introduce defects for improving electrocatalytic activities of cobalt oxides. Recent intensive research has been conducted to introduce oxygen vacancies for boosting Li–O2 battery performance. However, it is difficult to examine the efficiency of cationic vacancies due to their complicated preparation. Herein, a feasible method is demonstrated to introduce cationic vacancies into cobalt oxides via the thermal treatment of glycerolatocobalt (GlyCo) nanostructure. The formation of GlyCo composed of the repeating CoOCoO units provides the possibility to regulate the ratio between cobalt and oxygen, thus cobalt vacancies in cobalt oxides can be easily created by the thermal treatment. The presence of cobalt vacancies enables the regulation of electronic structure and charge‐transport properties of cobalt oxides with abundant defects on the basis of the experimental results and theoretical calculations, thus improving electrocatalytic activities. Therefore, the Li–O2 battery delivers superior electrochemical performance with large specific capacities of 13 331/12 040 mAh g−1, low overpotentials for the oxygen evolution reaction/oxygen reduction reaction of 1.15/0.23 V and good cycling stability. This work provides a favorable method to create metal vacancies for improving catalytic efficiency of advanced energy materials.
Comparison of different selection methods in the seedling stage of sugarcane breeding
Authors: Cursi Danilo Eduardo , Cox Mike C. , de Oliveira Anoni Carina , Hoffmann Hermann Paulo , Gazaffi Rodrigo , Garcia Antonio Augusto Franco
Published: September 2020

Family selection is an important procedure to be considered in the early stage of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) breeding. Different approaches are available, but few comparative studies are performed in practice. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential genetic gain when different selection strategies at early sugarcane breeding stages are considered. Two experiments involving the first and second selection stages of the Sugarcane Breeding Program of RIDESA/UFSCar were performed. In the first stage, three selection methods based on the concept of selection between and within families were applied to predict the highest genetic gain, that is, BLUPi: simultaneously contemplates family and individual information for selection; BLUPis: promotes the dynamic allocation of individuals to be selected in each family; BLUPAUS: identifies high potential families and establishes differentiated selection intensities; additionally, mass and random selection methods were also performed. In the second stage, the selected clones were evaluated to compare the realized genetic gain. In the first stage, BLUPAUS had the highest predicted gain from selection (PGS; 12.7%) in tonnes of Pol per hectare (TPH). The BLUPis was highly correlated with BLUPAUS and was efficient. Moreover, BLUPi proved to be economically impracticable since phenotypic evaluations must be performed at the individual level. Family selection via BLUPAUS was equivalent to mass selection probably due to the low coefficient of genetic variation (CVg ≤ 15) among the families. However, the family selection strategy provides extra information for breeders that cannot be ignored; the possibility of studying the combining ability of genotypes for identifying promising parents for future cross combinations.
Increasing wheat yield for smallholder farmers with technology transfer
Authors: Zhang Shuhua , Chen Yongliang , Zhao Pengfei , Zhang Hongyan , Cui Zhenling
Published: September 2020

Increasing crop yield for 100 million smallholder farmers in China presents a great challenge, although opportunities exist to increase yields based on field observations. We hypothesized that efforts to improve technology transfer to smallholder farmers could increase both yield and N‐use efficiency for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production in Quzhou county, China. Among 1,042 farmers surveyed in 2010−2013, average wheat yield was 7.1 Mg ha−1, but yield varied widely depending on management practices (e.g., tillage, variety, sowing date, sowing rate, fertilization) and farm characteristics (e.g., population, labor, land size). On‐farm trials confirmed that adoption of recommended management approaches, and fertilizer rates could increase yield by 7.1−19.7%. We recommended a technology package consisting of wheat varieties, sowing dates and rates, and fertilizer formulations. Local farmers were classified into three groups: those who used local farming practices (FP), received training two times per year (TP), and received training, field guidance, and help purchasing fertilizers and seeds (OTP). In 2010−2013, wheat yield in TP and OTP increased by 4.4 and 20.6% respectively, relative to FP, thereby increasing N‐use efficiency by 10.7% and improving economic profits by 20.6% relative to FP. The adoption rate of the recommended practices by OTP farmers was 83.0%, compared with 64.3 and 55.5% for TP and FP farmers, respectively. In conclusion, continuous increases in wheat yield could be achieved by optimizing local technologies and improving technology transfer for smallholder agricultural production in China.
Urban consumer preferences for nutrient fortified snacks in Zambia
Authors: Streletskaya Nadia A. , Bell Samuel D. , Kuo Grace , Kasoma Emily Heneghan
Published: September 2020

This paper uses a choice experiment with 661 respondents in two large cities in Zambia to evaluate urban consumers’ preferences for nutrient‐fortified wheat cookies. Our results indicate that both nutrient fortification and marketing messaging tied to taste, health and energy are important attributes for discretionary food selection among urban consumers in Zambia. Using a latent class model, we identify two types of consumers: price sensitive consumers strongly interested in nutrient fortification, who respond to different types of marketing messages and are unlikely to select the opt out option; and a smaller (24%) proportion of consumers who would rather not buy cookies at all, but exhibit strong demand for nutrient fortification, and are to some extent influenced by marketing messages that highlight the taste characteristics of the product. This suggests that while demand for fortified discretionary items is high among a significant proportion of the population promoting such foods on their health or energy characteristics might be counterproductive to some consumers, potentially due to health fortification stigma previously identified in the field. Taste messaging is identified as the most effective marketing appeal across our participants.
Association of TGFβ1 codon 10 (T>C) and IL‐10 (G>C) cytokine gene polymorphisms with longevity in a cohort of Italian population
Authors: Ruberto Stefano , Santovito Alfredo
Published: September 2020

Longevity is a complex process controlled by both environmental and genetic factors. We evaluated the association of four cytokine gene polymorphisms with longevity in an Italian cohort. A sample of 1019 subjects aged 10 to 100 and belonging to the North‐Italian population was genotyped for IL‐6 (G>C, rs1800796), IL‐10‐1082 (G>A, rs1800896), TNF‐α‐308 (G>A, rs1800629), and TGFβ1 codon 10 (T>C, rs1800471) gene polymorphisms. The association between cytokine gene polymorphisms and longevity was evaluated by dividing the sample into four age groups: 10 to 24, 25 to 49, 50 to 85, and 86 to 100. We observed a significant decrease in the frequency of IL‐10 A allele in the 25 to 49 (P = 1.1 × 10−3), 50 to 85 (P < 1 × 10−4), and 86 to 100 (P = 2 × 10−3) age groups compared to that in the youngest age group. Similarly, we found a significant decrease (P < 1 × 10−4) in the frequency of TGFβ1 C allele in the 50 to 85 and 86 to 100 age groups compared to that in the 10 to 24 and 25 to 49 age groups. Previously, high levels of TGFβ1 were detected in elderly subjects, suggesting that this cytokine could counterbalance the harmful effects of inflammation. Similarly, IL‐10 has strong anti‐inflammatory properties and can inhibit the production of proinflammatory cytokines. In the literature, the lowest levels of functional cytokines were found to be associated with TGFβ1 (T>C) and IL‐10 (G>A) gene polymorphisms, with consequent increase in the duration of inflammation and cancer risk. For these reasons, it is plausible to observe low rates of these mutations in elderly subjects, as found in our study.
Protein elongation variant of PUF60: Milder phenotypic end of the Verheij syndrome
Authors: Yamada Mamiko , Uehara Tomoko , Suzuki Hisato , Takenouchi Toshiki , Kosaki Kenjiro
Published: September 2020

The PUF60 gene encodes a ubiquitously expressed essential splicing factor that is recruited to the U2snRNA complex. The complex binds to the 3′ splice site of exons in specific target genes and regulates the inclusion or exclusion of such exons. Recently, pathogenic variants of PUF60 have been shown to cause a relatively specific and potentially recognizable pattern of malformation referred to as Verheij syndrome. Here, we report a 12‐year‐old female patient with a de novo mutation in PUF60 whose phenotype was representative of the milder end of the phenotypic spectrum of Verheij syndrome; the de novo mutation was a frameshift mutation p.(Ser558Cysfs*21) that resulted in the addition of 21 extra amino acids at the carboxy end of the protein. Among the frequent features of Verheij syndrome, the patient exhibited coloboma, cervical spinal segmentation defects, and borderline intellectual functioning, but lacked cardiac abnormalities, deafness, and urogenital abnormalities. The results of RNA analysis using peripheral blood showed the escape of the mutant allele from nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay, possibly accounting for the mild phenotype in the presently reported patient. Based on our clinical observations, we inferred that two embryologic processes, closure of the ocular plate and cervical spinal segmentation, are particularly susceptible to deficient PUF60‐mediated splicing regulation, compared with other embryogenetic processes leading to the central nervous system, heart, ear, and kidney.
Growth charts for individuals with Coffin‐Siris syndrome
Authors: McCague Emily A. , Lamichhane Rajan , Holt Nicole , Schrier Vergano Samantha A.
Published: September 2020

Coffin‐Siris syndrome (CSS; OMIM #135900) is a rare, multisystem syndrome caused by pathogenic variants in genes encoding the BRG‐1 associated factors complex (BAF). Individuals with CSS often present with feeding difficulties and failure to thrive during infancy, in addition to a number of variable congenital anomalies. Nutritional interventions are used to support growth in this population, and growth hormone therapy has been reported in a limited number of cases. The purpose of this study was to construct CSS‐specific growth charts to better characterize the growth in this population. Anthropometric data were collected from 99 individuals enrolled in the CSS/BAF pathway international registry via a retrospective chart review. All measurements obtained after the first exposure to growth hormone therapy were excluded from this analysis. Sex‐specific centiles (5th, 50th, and 95th) were estimated for height, weight, and head circumference from birth to age 10. Cubic smoothing splines were then fit to the centile estimates and superimposed on normative male and female growth curves for comparison. The CSS patients in this cohort exhibited normal growth parameters at birth. By age 10, the weight and head circumference of the CSS cohort began to approach normal parameters. Stature, however, remained shortened at 10 years of age.
Rescue of autoimmune hepatitis by soluble MHC class II molecules in an altered concanavalin A‐induced experimental model
Authors: Bakela Katerina , Dimitraki Maria Georgia , Skoufa Evangelia , Athanassakis Irene
Published: September 2020

Background

Soluble major histocompatibility complex class II (sMHCII) molecules have been described to maintain tolerance through the suppression of autoreactive T lymphocytes. In order to evaluate their ability to rescue autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) symptoms, the present work attempted to administer sMHCII molecules to an in vitro as well as in vivo concanavalin A (ConA)‐induced AIH model.

Methods

The in vitro AIH model consisted of splenocyte stimulation with ConA in the presence or absence of serum‐isolated sMHCII molecules. An in vivo ConA‐modified model with or without sMHCII treatment was developed. The cytokine profile in culture supernatants and serum was tested by ELISA. Cell markers were evaluated by immunofluorescence, while cell proliferation by tritiated thymidine uptake. AIH symptoms were assessed by daily observations for the establishment of a disease severity scoring system and liver histology was evaluated using a biomolecular imager.

Results

The presence of sMHCII molecules in the ConA‐stimulated cell cultures leads to a significant reduction of cell proliferation. The administration of sMHCII molecules to the ConA‐treated animals showed a significant reduction in the levels of IL‐2, IL‐4, and IL‐10, as well as a decrease in the number of spleen CD4+ and CD8+ cells. Upon development of a scoring system, it was shown that the sMHCII treatment was accompanied by a slower progression of the disease, while rescuing fibrotic liver morphology.

Conclusion

The results presented in this study confirm the ability of sMHCII proteins to alleviate autoimmune hepatitis, possibly highlighting new therapeutic approaches for autoimmune diseases.
Hydrocortisone with fludrocortisone for septic shock: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yamamoto Ryo , Nahara Isao , Toyosaki Mitsunobu , Fukuda Tatsuma , Masuda Yoshiki , Fujishima Seitaro
Published: September 2020

Aim

Combined hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone therapy for septic shock has not been evaluated with an independent systematic review. We aimed to elucidate the beneficial effects of a dual corticosteroid treatment regime involving both hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone for adult patients with septic shock on mortality.

Methods

We searched the Medline, Cochrane CENTRAL, and ICHUSHI databases for reports published before April 2019. We included randomized controlled trials that compared the use of both hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone with either corticosteroid‐free or hydrocortisone‐only treatments on adult patients with septic shock. Three researchers independently reviewed the studies. The meta‐analyses were undertaken to assess primary outcome (28‐day mortality) and secondary outcomes (in‐hospital mortality, long‐term mortality, shock reversal, and adverse events).

Results

Among the four studies eligible for data synthesis, we included 2,050 patients from three studies for quantitative synthesis. All studies used similar regimens (hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone for 7 days without tapering). The 28‐day mortality rate was reduced after dual corticosteroid treatment (risk ratio, 0.88; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 0.78–0.99). The heterogeneity between the studies was low (I2 = 0%). Patients who underwent dual corticosteroid treatment had lower long‐term mortality rates (risk ratio, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.83–0.98) and higher rate of shock reversal after 28 days (odds ratio, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01–1.12) than control patients. Adverse events (except for hyperglycemia) were similar among the treatment groups.

Conclusions

The available evidence suggests that a combination of fludrocortisone and hydrocortisone is more effective than adjunctive therapy and could be recommended for septic shock.
Unravelling Structural Dynamics within a Photoswitchable Single Peptide: A Step Towards Multimodal Bioinspired Nanodevices
Authors: Chen Xinjiani , Yeoh Yuan Qi , He Yanbin , Zhou Chenguang , Horsley John R. , Abell Andrew D. , Yu Jingxian , Guo Xuefeng
Published: September 2020

The majority of the protein structures have been elucidated under equilibrium conditions. The aim herein is to provide a better understanding of the dynamic behavior inherent to proteins by fabricating a label‐free nanodevice comprising a single‐peptide junction to measure real‐time conductance, from which their structural dynamic behavior can be inferred. This device contains an azobenzene photoswitch for interconversion between a well‐defined cis, and disordered trans isomer. Real‐time conductance measurements revealed three distinct states for each isomer, with molecular dynamics simulations showing each state corresponds to a specific range of hydrogen bond lengths within the cis isomer, and specific dihedral angles in the trans isomer. These insights into the structural dynamic behavior of peptides may rationally extend to proteins. Also demonstrated is the capacity to modulate conductance which advances the design and development of bioinspired electronic nanodevices.
Photo‐Effect on Ion Transport in Mixed Cation and Halide Perovskites and Implications for Photo‐Demixing**
Authors: Kim Gee Yeong , Senocrate Alessandro , Wang Ya‐Ru , Moia Davide , Maier Joachim
Published: September 2020

Lead halide perovskites are considered to be most promising photovoltaic materials. Highest efficiency and improved stability of perovskite solar cells have been achieved by using cation and anion mixtures. Experimental information on electronic and ionic charge carriers is key to evaluate device performance, as well as processes of photo‐decomposition and photo‐demixing which are observed in these materials. Here, we measure ionic and electronic transport properties and investigate various cation and anion substitutions with a special eye on their photo‐ionic effect, following our previous study on CH3NH3PbI3, where we found that light enhances not only electronic but also ionic conductivities. We find that this phenomenon is very sensitive to the nature of the halide, while the cationic substitutions are less relevant. Based on the observation that the ionic conductivity enhancement found for iodide perovskites is significantly weakened by bromide substitution, we provide a chemical rationale for the photo‐demixing in mixed halide compositions.
Dendritic Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticle Adjuvants Modified with Binuclear Aluminum Complex: Coordination Chemistry Dictates Adjuvanticity
Authors: Yang Yang , Tang Jie , Song Hao , Yang Yannan , Gu Zhengying , Fu Jianye , Liu Yang , Zhang Min , Qiao Zhen‐An , Yu Chengzhong
Published: September 2020

Aluminum‐containing adjuvants used in vaccine formulations suffer from low cellular immunity, severe aggregation, and accumulation in the brain. Conventional aluminosilicates widely used in the chemical industry focus mainly on acidic sites for catalytic applications, but they are rarely used as adjuvants. Reported here is an innovative “ligand‐assisted steric hindrance” strategy to create a high density of six‐coordinate VIAl−OH groups with basicity on dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles as new nanoadjuvants. Compared to four‐coordinate IVAl‐modified counterparts, VIAl−OH‐rich aluminosilicate nanoadjuvants enhance cellular delivery of antigens and provoke stronger cellular immunity. Moreover, the aluminum accumulation in the brain is more reduced than that with a commercial adjuvant. These results show that coordination chemistry can be used to control the adjuvanticity, providing new understanding in the development of next‐generation vaccine adjuvants.
A Paclitaxel Prodrug Activatable by Irradiation in a Hypoxic Microenvironment
Authors: Zhou Shiyu , Hu Xiuli , Xia Rui , Liu Shi , Pei Qing , Chen Guang , Xie Zhigang , Jing Xiabin
Published: September 2020

The innate hypoxic microenvironment of most solid tumors has a major influence on tumor growth, invasiveness, and distant metastasis. Here, a hypoxia‐activated self‐immolative prodrug of paclitaxel (PTX2‐Azo) was synthesized and encapsulated by a peptide copolymer decorated with the photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) to prepare light‐boosted PTX nanoparticle (Ce6/PTX2‐Azo NP). In this nanoparticle, PTX2‐Azo prevents premature drug leakage and realizes specific release in hypoxic tumor microenvironment and the photosensitizer Ce6 not only efficiently generates singlet oxygen under light irradiation but also acts as a positive amplifier to promote the release of PTX. The combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and chemotherapy results in excellent antitumor efficacy, demonstrating the great potential for synergistic cancer therapy.
Intramolecular Coupling of Terminal Alkynes by Atom Manipulation
Authors: Albrecht Florian , Rey Dulce , Fatayer Shadi , Schulz Fabian , Pérez Dolores , Peña Diego , Gross Leo
Published: September 2020

Glaser‐like coupling of terminal alkynes by thermal activation is extensively used in on‐surface chemistry. Here we demonstrate an intramolecular version of this reaction performed by atom manipulation. We used voltage pulses from the tip to trigger a Glaser‐like coupling between terminal alkyne carbons within a custom‐synthesized precursor molecule adsorbed on bilayer NaCl on Cu(111). Different conformations of the precursor molecule and the product were characterized by molecular structure elucidation with atomic force microscopy and orbital density mapping with scanning tunneling microscopy, accompanied by density functional theory calculations. We revealed partially dehydrogenated intermediates, providing insight into the reaction pathway.
Collective Total Synthesis of Aspidofractinine Alkaloids through the Development of a Bischler–Napieralski/Semipinacol Rearrangement Reaction
Authors: Wang Shuang‐Hu , Si Rui‐Qi , Zhuang Qing‐Bo , Guo Xiang , Ke Tian , Zhang Xiao‐Ming , Zhang Fu‐Min , Tu Yong‐Qiang
Published: September 2020

A tandem Bischler–Napieralski/semipinacol rearrangement reaction has been developed for the purpose of assembling a bis(spirocyclic) indole framework, a privileged structural unit of aspidofractinine‐type monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, and was used in combination with a subsequent Mannich reaction to expeditiously construct the central bridged bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane ring system of these molecules with contiguous quaternary centers. The development of this novel strategy culminated in the collective total synthesis of four aspidofractinine alkaloids.
Reductive Charge Transfer through an RNA Aptamer
Authors: Frommer Jennifer , Müller Sabine
Published: September 2020

The transfer of charges through double helical DNA is a very well investigated bioelectric phenomenon. RNA, on the contrary, has been less studied in this regard. The few available data report on charge transfer through RNA duplex structures mainly composed of homonucleotide sequences. In the light of the RNA world scenarios, it is an interesting question, if charge transfer can be coupled with RNA function. Functional RNAs however, contain versatile structural motifs. Therefore, electron transport also through non‐Watson–Crick base‐paired regions might be required. We here demonstrate distance‐dependent reductive charge transfer through RNA duplexes and through the non‐Watson–Crick base‐paired region of an RNA aptamer.
Pb18O8Cl15I5: A Polar Lead Mixed Oxyhalide with Unprecedented Architecture and Excellent Infrared Nonlinear Optical Properties
Authors: Chen Xinglong , Jing Qun , Ok Kang Min
Published: September 2020

To develop high‐performance nonlinear optical (NLO) materials for infrared (IR) applications, we have applied a rational element‐composition design strategy and investigated the unexplored PbO–PbCl2–PbI2 system. By doing so, we discovered a new polar lead mixed oxyhalide, Pb18O8Cl15I5, the first synthetic metal oxyhalide combining both Cl− and I−. Pb18O8Cl15I5 reveals an unprecedented structural feature with two different dimensional types of oxocentered Pb–O units, namely, [O4Pb8]8+ clusters and [OPb2]2+ chains. Centimeter‐sized single crystals of Pb18O8Cl15I5 have been successfully grown under ambient conditions. Remarkably, Pb18O8Cl15I5 satisfies all fundamental yet rigorous criteria for high‐performance IR NLO materials, exhibiting the widest IR transparency (up to 16.0 μm) among oxide‐based crystals, strong second‐harmonic generation response (1.05×AgGaS2), superior birefringence (0.086 at 636 nm), and a high laser‐induced damage threshold (8.5×AgGaS2).
Colyliform Crystalline 2D Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) with Quasi‐3D Topologies for Rapid I2 Adsorption
Authors: Guo Xinghua , Li Yang , Zhang Meicheng , Cao Kecheng , Tian Yin , Qi Yue , Li Shoujian , Li Kun , Yu Xiaoqi , Ma Lijian
Published: September 2020

Constructing three‐dimensional (3D) structural characteristics on two‐dimensional (2D) covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is a good approach to effectively improve the permeability and mass transfer rate of the materials and realize the rapid adsorption for guest molecules, while avoiding the high cost and monomer scarcity in preparing 3D COFs. Herein, we report for the first time a series of colyliform crystalline 2D COFs with quasi‐three‐dimensional (Q‐3D) topologies, consisting of unique “stereoscopic” triangular pores, large interlayer spacings and flexible constitutional units which makes the pores elastic and self‐adaptable for the guest transmission. The as‐prepared QTD‐COFs have a faster adsorption rate (2.51 g h−1) for iodine than traditional 2D COFs, with an unprecedented maximum adsorption capacity of 6.29 g g−1. The excellent adsorption performance, as well as the prominent irradiation stability allow the QTD‐COFs to be applied for the rapid removal of radioactive iodine.
Aminopotassiation by Mixed Potassium/Lithium Amides: A Synthetic Path to Difficult to Access Phenethylamine Derivates
Authors: Hermann Andreas , Opper Ulrike , Voß Andreas , Brieger Lukas , Otte Felix , Unkelbach Christian , O'Shea Donal F. , Strohmann Carsten
Published: September 2020

Insights gained from a comparison of aminometalation reactions with lithium amides, potassium amides and mixed lithium/potassium amides are presented. A combination of structural characterization, DFT calculations and electrophile reactions of aminometalated intermediates has shown the advantages of using a mixed metal strategy. While potassium amides fail to add, the lithium amides are uncontrollable and eliminated, yet the mixed K/Li amides deliver the best of both systems. Aminopotassiation proceeds to form the alkylpotassium species which has enhanced stability over its lithium counterpart allowing for its isolation and thereby its further characterization.