bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Chemical Herbicides on Weed Management in Allium sativum L. (Garlic) and Its Yield
Authors: Ganapathi T. , Ravikumar M. R. , Rajakumar G. R.
Published: February 2021

A field experiment was conducted during 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 at Agricultural Research Station, Hanumanamatti, Ranebennur (Tq), Haveri (Dist.) Karnataka, to study the effect of chemical herbicides on weed management in garlic. The treatments consisted of pre emergent application of Pendimethalin, Oxyfluorfen, Quizalofop ethyl and Butachlor. The pooled mean results indicated that, pre-emergent  application of Butachlor 50 EC @ 1.0 kg ai/ha + one  hand weeding + second spray at 30 days after planting (B1HW2S:T7) recorded the least weed density (82.83, 89.67 monocot weeds and 8.15, 6.34 dicot weeds), weed bio-mass (80.99g, 93.33g fresh weight of  monocot weeds and 8.48g, 1.82g fresh weight of dicot weeds, 32.40g, 37.33g dry weight of monocot weeds and 3.39g,  0.73g dry weight of dicot weeds), the highest garlic plant height  (4.34cm, 16.17 cm), number of leaves (3.55, 6.57) at 30 and 60 days after planting respectively. Treatment with Butachlor 50 EC @ 1.0 kg ai/ha + one  hand weeding + second spray at 30 days after planting (B1HW2S:T7) also recorded the highest hundred bulb weight (912.98 g), yield per plot (2056.63g) and yield/ha (41.13 Q) followed by Oxyflurofen 23.5 EC @  0.15 kg ai /ha + one hand weeding + second spray at 30 Days after planting (O1HW2S:T4) compared to farmer’s practice (2HW:T8) and untreated control (WC:T9).
Fear, Psychosomatic Symptoms and Satisfaction of Primary Healthcare Workers during the First Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic in Rivers State Nigeria: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Edet Clement Kevin , Harry Agiriye M. , Wegbom Anthony Ike , Osaro Benjamin O.
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Since the onset of COVID-19 pandemic there has been concerns about the imminent collapse of the health system if healthcare workers are physically, mentally, and socially affected to the point where service delivery is compromised. Therefore, this study investigated the fear, psychosomatic symptoms, and satisfaction of the Primary Healthcare Workers (PHCWs) during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Rivers State Nigeria.

Methods: A facility cross-sectional survey was conducted involving the primary healthcare workers. Descriptive analysis of mean with standard deviation were reported for continuous variables, frequency and percentage were used to report categorical variables.

Results: A total of 412 PHCWs participated in the study (mean age: 39.5±7.5). 223 (54.4%) were sure of going to work, while 260 (63.4%) were afraid of contracting the COVID-19 virus. However, 294 (71.7%) were not stigmatized and 256 (62.4%) were satisfied with their capacity for work. Also, 333 (81.2%), 357(87.3%), and 271(66.6%) were not satisfied with, transportation, money to meet their daily needs, and work environment, respectively. Perceived psychosomatic symptoms by respondents were chest pain (50.0%), stomach upset (38.0%), lump in the throat (40.0%), no feeling of hunger (52.0%), and shortness of breath (32.0%). Anxiety and stress symptoms experienced were inability to concentrate (38.2%), got angry easily (24.9%), worried (48.5%), low mood, anxiety, or depression (24.1%) and afraid of encountering security personnel on their way to work (67.6%).

Conclusions: We observed perceived fears, psychosomatic, anxiety, and stress symptoms, as well as low satisfaction among the primary healthcare workers. We suggest that the government and health care agencies should put in place measures that will improve the psychological well-being and mental health of the PHCWs during the pandemic.
Lite Image Analysis Module Salivary Diagnostic Tool - A Review
Authors: Saikia Jayanta , Pachipulusu Balaji , Govindaraju Poornima
Published: March 2021

Background: Saliva is a versatile biofluid that can help in detecting any oral or systemic disease of an individual. Saliva seems to be clinically an informative biofluid for easy prognosis of a disease and clinical or laboratory diagnosis of oral as well as many systemic diseases. It has some specific soluble biological markers that can be considered as an ideal approach for early detection of diseases.

Aim: The aim of this paper was to review the recent developments of the Lite Image Analysis Module.

Conclusion: Thus, this technology primarily helps in a rapid assessment of salivary biomarker levels signifying the probable systemic and oral condition of an individual both in quantitative as well as qualitative manner. Adopting a simple and quick technique, LIAM can be used effortlessly in some rural remote areas as well where advanced high technology laboratories have not yet reached.

Clinical Significance: It is one of the recent advancements in the world of salivary diagnosis LIAM (Lite Image Analysis Module) that is a portable, light, hand-held scanning device which magnificently integrates a distinct analyte identification system that detects the type of analytes being tested and transfer the report straight to a smartphone or a Bluetooth devices.
Obesity and Overweight in Relation to Hypertension and Associated Risk in School Children
Authors: Babu Gorantla Naresh , Jameela P. , Sharif S. Jafar , Ramya A. , Haq K. Ziyaul , Kumar Sasi , Reddenna L. , Sreedhar V.
Published: March 2021

Aim: Hypertension is a major public health problem worldwide and is associated with high mortality and morbidity. The main aim of this study is to assess obesity and overweight in school children and their relationship to hypertension and associated risk factors.

Study Design: Population based cross sectional study.

Results and Discussion: A total number of 712 students with age group between 7-12 years from different school were screened for their height, weight and body mass index. The present study was aimed to assess obesity and overweight in school children and their relationship to hypertension and associated risk factors.  Under weight and healthy weight children are engaged in physical activities like playing in ground and thus they are healthy where the children who found as overweight and obese were not engaged in physical activities regularly and thus this might be the reason for their overweight and obesity. At the same time the children who found as obese and overweight were said that they were having fast foods twice a day.

Conclusion: In order to get rid of these risks and their associated cardiovascular risks, their food habits must be changed and physical activities needs to be improved.
Frequency of Beta Thalassemia in Anemic Pregnant Women
Authors: Khadija . , Arain Shumaila Perveen , Alahmadi Yaser M. , Alolayan Sultan Othman , Ahmer Arslan , Ahmed Tahseen
Published: March 2021

Objective: To determine the frequency of beta thalassemia trait among pregnant women presenting with anemia.

Method: A cross sectional study was conducted in Gynecology & Obstetric department, district headquarters hospital Mardan from January 2019 to June 2020. This study includes all pregnant women who presented with anemia and having age 15 to 45 years. Patients with                           known hemoglobinopathies were excluded from the study. Collected data was analyzed using SPSS 20.

Results: Mean age of the patient was 27.7 years and mean hemoglobin level was 8.7g/dl. Age distributions showed mother age 15 to 25 years were 40%, 26 to 36 years were 35% and 36 to 45 years were 25%. Thalassemia trait was found in 40% anemic pregnant women. Thalassemia trait percentage was high in mother having age 15 to 25 years.

Conclusion: Beta thalassemia trait is a common cause anemia in pregnancy. All pregnant women presenting with anemia should be investigated for it.
Prescribing Pattern in Geriatrics with Cardio Vascular Diseases using Beers Criteria
Authors: Kumar E. Pavan , Sreedhar V. , Reddy P. Ramakrishna , Reddenna L. , Kumar M. Pramod , Jayanthi B. , Sirisha N. , Salma K.
Published: March 2021

Aim: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major health problem throughout the world and a common cause of premature morbidity and mortality. CVD is a general category of diseases that affects the heart and the circulatory system. The main aim of the study is to assess the prescribing pattern in geriatrics with cardiovascular diseases using beers criteria.

Study Design: Prospective observational study.

Results and Discussion: Total 132 patients, 12 dropouts due to lack of information. Out of 120 patients 69 Patients are identified as Male Patients and 51 Patients are Female. In 120 sample size Maximum No of Cases were found with Ischemic Heart disease (30.8%) Followed by myocardial infarction (24%) coronary artery disease (20%) congestive heart failure (13.3%) Unstable Angina (11.6%). In 120 Sample Size, Male Patients are Suffering More with Complications Compared to Female Patients.

Conclusion: In this Study with Assessing the Prescribing Pattern in Geriatrics with Cardio Vascular Diseases It was found that major complications seen in Male and Female Patients are Ischemic heart Disease with Left ventricular dysfunction Myocardial Infarction, Coronary Artery Disease, Angina, Congestive Cardiac Failure.
Opening Up Educating Institutions, Opening Up Methodologies
Authors: Woodman Ellis
Published: March 2021

AHMM has significant expertise in designing architecture for educational purposes. Ellis Woodman is an architecture critic and curator and the Director of the Architecture Foundation in London. He surveys this aspect of the practice, particularly in relation to the freeing up and creation of accessible, social space to learn within.
Being Significant: The Problem of What We Cannot Measure
Authors: Kara Hanif
Published: March 2021

Hanif Kara is co‐founder of London‐based international structural engineering firm AKT II. He is also Professor in Practice of Architectural Technology at Harvard University Graduate School of Design. He describes his ongoing working relationship with AHMM, stretching back over two decades, the qualities of which include mutual respect, friendship and a little healthy competition.
A Novel Twofold Symmetry Architected Metamaterials with High Compressibility and Negative Poisson's Ratio
Authors: Khan Kamran A. , Alshaer Mohammad H. , Khan Muhammad Ali
Published: March 2021

This study presents the compression response of additively manufactured novel soft porous structures with architected microstructure. Six porous additively manufactured architected periodic structures with two‐fold and four‐fold symmetry were considered. The effect of pore shape and fold symmetry of microstructure on the non‐linear response of a square array of architected pores in a soft polymeric matrix is experimentally investigated. The digital image correlation (DIC) is used for investigating the evolution of strains and deformation during uniaxial tensile tests and compression tests of porous structures. Compression induced instability lead to negative Poisson's ratio, and compaction of porous structures, which is found to depend not only on the shape of the architecture but also the fold symmetry exists in the microstructure's unit cell. Unique architectures with multiple buckling modes and shape transformation are also observed. Two‐fold symmetry structures are found to buckle at lower strains compared to the four‐fold symmetric structure at the same porosity level and produced high compaction and negative Poisson's ratio. The results showed that in addition to pore shape, the fold symmetry could be used effectively to design a new class of soft, active, and reconfigurable devices over a wide range of length scales with desired characteristics.
Bioprinting of Cartilaginous Auricular Constructs Utilizing an Enzymatically Crosslinkable Bioink
Authors: Fisch Philipp , Broguiere Nicolas , Finkielsztein Sergio , Linder Thomas , Zenobi‐Wong Marcy
Published: March 2021

Bioprinting of functional tissues could overcome tissue shortages and allow a more rapid response for treatments. However, despite recent progress in bioprinting, and its outstanding ability to position cells and biomaterials in a precise 3D manner, its success has been limited, due to insufficient maturation of constructs into functional tissue. Here, a novel calcium‐triggered enzymatic crosslinking (CTEC) mechanism for bioinks based on the activation cascade of Factor XIII is presented and utilized for the biofabrication of cartilaginous constructs. Hyaluronan transglutaminase (HA‐TG), an enzymatically crosslinkable material, has shown excellent characteristics for chondrogenesis and builds the basis of the CTEC bioink. The bioink supports tissue maturation with neocartilage formation and stiffening of constructs up to 400 kPa. Bioprinted constructs remain stable in vivo for 24 weeks and bioprinted auricular constructs transform into cartilaginous grafts. A major limitation of the current study is the deposition of collagen I, indicating the maturation toward fibrocartilage rather than elastic cartilage. Shifting the maturation process toward elastic cartilage will therefore be essential in order for the developed bioinks to offer a novel tissue engineered treatment for microtia patients. CTEC bioprinting furthermore opens up use of enzymatically crosslinkable biopolymers and their modularity to support a multitude of tissues.
Engineered Sulfated Polysaccharides for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Arlov Øystein , Rütsche Dominic , Asadi Korayem Maryam , Öztürk Ece , Zenobi‐Wong Marcy
Published: March 2021

Sulfated polysaccharides are ubiquitous in living systems and have central roles in biological functions such as organism development, cell proliferation and differentiation, cellular communication, tissue homeostasis, and host defense. Engineered sulfated polysaccharides (ESPs) are structural derivatives not found in nature but generated through chemical and enzymatic modification of natural polysaccharides, as well as chemically synthesized oligo‐ and polysaccharides. ESPs exhibit novel and augmented biological properties compared with their unmodified counterparts, mainly through facilitating interactions with other macromolecules. These interactions are closely linked to their sulfation patterns and backbone structures, providing a means to fine‐tune biological properties and characterize structural–functional relationships by employing well‐characterized polysaccharides and strategies for regioselective modification. The following review provides a comprehensive overview of the synthesis and characterization of ESPs and of their biological properties. Through the pioneering research presented here, key emerging application areas for ESPs, which can lead to novel breakthroughs in biomedical research and clinical treatments, are highlighted.
Commensurability between Element Symmetry and the Number of Skyrmions Governing Skyrmion Diffusion in Confined Geometries
Authors: Song Chengkun , Kerber Nico , Rothörl Jan , Ge Yuqing , Raab Klaus , Seng Boris , Brems Maarten A. , Dittrich Florian , Reeve Robert M. , Wang Jianbo , Liu Qingfang , Virnau Peter , Kläui Mathias
Published: March 2021

Magnetic skyrmions are topological magnetic structures, which exhibit quasi‐particle properties and can show enhanced stability against perturbation from thermal noise. Recently, thermal Brownian diffusion of these quasi‐particles has been found in continuous films, and unconventional computing applications have received significant attention, requiring structured elements. Thus, as the next necessary step, skyrmion diffusion in confined geometries is studied, and it is found to be qualitatively different: The diffusion is governed by the interplay between the total number of skyrmions and the structure geometry. In particular, the effect of circular and triangular geometrical confinement is ascertained. It is found that for triangular geometries, the behavior is drastically different for the cases when the number of skyrmions in the element is either commensurate or incommensurate with a symmetric filling of the element. This influence of commensurability is corroborated by simulations of a quasi‐particle model.
Ion‐Selective MXene‐Based Membranes: Current Status and Prospects
Authors: Mozafari Mohammad , Arabi Shamsabadi Ahmad , Rahimpour Ahmad , Soroush Masoud
Published: March 2021

Water pollution is a major global challenge, as conventional polymeric membranes are not adequate for water treatment anymore. Among emerging materials for water treatment, composite membranes are promising, as they have simultaneously improved water permeation and ions rejection. Recently, a new family of 2D materials called MXenes has attracted considerable attention due to their appealing properties and wide applications. MXenes can be incorporated into many polymeric materials due to their high compatibility. MXenes/polymer composite membranes have been found to have appealing electrical, thermal, mechanical, and transport properties, because of strong interactions between polymer chains and surface functional groups of MXenes and the selective nanochannels that are created. This article reviews advances made in the area of ion‐selective MXene‐based membranes for water purification. It puts the advances into perspective and provides prospects. MXenes’ properties and synthesis methods are briefly described. Strategies for the preparation of MXene‐based membranes including mixed‐matrix membranes, thin‐film nanocomposite membranes, and laminated membranes are reviewed. Recent advances in ion‐separation and water‐desalination MXene‐based membranes are elucidated. The dependence of ion‐separation performance of the membranes on fabrication techniques, MXene's interlayer spacing, and MXene's various surface terminations are elucidated. Finally, opportunities and challenges in ion‐selective MXene‐based membranes are discussed.
Unfolded Protein Corona Surrounding Nanotubes Influence the Innate and Adaptive Immune System
Authors: Park Jun‐Young , Park Sung Jean , Park Jun Young , Kim Sang‐Hyun , Kwon Song , Jung YunJae , Khang Dongwoo
Published: March 2021

The plasma proteins around nanoparticles (NPs) form an outer protein corona, significantly influencing the subsequent immune response. However, it was uncertain whether the protein corona around NPs influences immune response. This study clarified that the immune response mediated by the protein corona is greatly dependent on the type of plasma proteins surrounding the NPs. Structural changes in the unfolded protein corona elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and induced major proinflammatory cytokine release in both murine and human macrophage cell lines. In contrast, negligible structural changes in the protein corona provoke neither ROS production nor proinflammatory cytokine release. Furthermore, in vivo analysis confirms that a stimulated immune response by an unfolded protein corona triggers selective activation of innate and adaptive immunity in the spleen. Specifically, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and CD8+ T cells are overpopulated by unfolded protein corona structures surrounding nanotubes, whereas innate and adaptive immunologic responses are not triggered by a normal protein corona. In conclusion, highly unfolded protein corona structures are strongly correlated with subsequent activation of proinflammatory cytokines and innate immune responses; thus, the protein corona can be used in immune‐enhancing therapy.
Asymmetric information and blockchains in soybean commodity markets
Authors: Lakkakula Prithviraj , Bullock David W. , Wilson William W.
Published: March 2021

Asymmetric information is prevalent in the grain and oilseed markets. This paper demonstrates the benefits of blockchain technology to mitigate asymmetric information about the soybean's protein quality between sellers and buyers. We use decision trees to model information asymmetry under both conventional and blockchain scenarios. The results suggest that asymmetric information can be mitigated with a blockchain, resulting in substantial premiums (40–60 cents per bushel of soybeans). These results could have significant implications for the grain and oilseed industry in order to decrease transaction costs, to improve market efficiency, and to prioritize strategies for the procurement of soybeans.

JEL CLASSIFICATION

O33 Q13; Q17
Total Synthesis of the Meroterpenoid Manginoid A as Fueled by a Challenging Pinacol Coupling and Bicycle‐forming Etherification
Authors: Zhang Yu‐An , Milkovits Amanda , Agarawal Valay , Taylor Cooper A. , Snyder Scott A.
Published: March 2021

The manginoids are a unique collection of bioactive natural products whose structures fuse an oxa‐bridged spirocyclohexanedione with a heavily substituted trans‐hydrindane framework. Herein, we show that such architectures can be accessed through a strategy combining a challenging pinacol coupling and bicycle‐forming etherification with several additional chemo‐ and regioselective reactions. The success of these key events proved to be highly substrate and condition specific, affording insights for their application to other targets. As a result, not only has a 19‐step total synthesis of manginoid A been achieved, but a potential roadmap to access other members of the family and related natural products has also been identified.
Morita–Baylis–Hillman‐Type [3,3]‐Rearrangement: Switching fromZ‐ toE‐Selective α‐Arylation by New Rearrangement Partners
Authors: Zhang Lei , Bao Wangzhen , Liang Yuchen , Pan Wenjing , Li Dongyang , Kong Lichun , Wang Zhi‐Xiang , Peng Bo
Published: March 2021

α‐aryl α,β‐unsaturated carbonyls represent an important class of derivatizable synthetic intermediates, however, the synthesis of such compounds still remains a challenge. Recently, we showcased a novelZ‐selective α‐arylation of α,β‐unsaturated nitriles with aryl sulfoxides via [3,3]‐rearrangement involving an Morita–Baylis–Hillman (MBH) process. Herein, we demonstrate the feasibility of reversing the stereoselectivity of such MBH‐type [3,3]‐rearrangement by switching to a new pair of rearrangement partners consisting of aryl iodanes and α,β‐unsaturated oxazolines. As a result, the two protocols complement each other in approachingE‐ orZ‐α‐aryl α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl derivatives. Mechanistic studies reveal a possible reaction pathway and provide an explanation for the opposite stereoselectivities.
Spectroscopic Evidence of Hyponitrite Radical Intermediate in NO Disproportionation at a MOF‐Supported Mononuclear Copper Site
Authors: Sun Chenyue , Yang Luming , Ortuño Manuel A. , Wright Ashley M. , Chen Tianyang , Head Ashley R. , López Núria , Dincă Mircea
Published: March 2021

Dianionic hyponitrite (N2O22−) is often proposed, based on model complexes, as the key intermediate in reductive coupling of nitric oxide to nitrous oxide at the bimetallic active sites of heme‐copper oxidases and nitric oxide reductases. In this work, we examine the gas‐solid reaction of nitric oxide with the metal–organic framework CuI‐ZrTpmC* with a suite of in situ spectroscopies and density functional theory simulations, and identify an unusual chelating N2O2.− intermediate. These results highlight the advantage provided by site‐isolation in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for studying important reaction intermediates, and provide a mechanistic scenario compatible with the proposed one‐electron couple in these enzymes.
Cation‐Assisted Lithium‐Ion Transport for High‐Performance PEO‐based Ternary Solid Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Atik Jaschar , Diddens Diddo , Thienenkamp Johannes Helmut , Brunklaus Gunther , Winter Martin , Paillard Elie
Published: March 2021

N‐alkyl‐N‐alkyl pyrrolidinium‐based ionic liquids (ILs) are promising candidates as non‐flammable plasticizers for lowering the operation temperature of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)‐based solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs), but they present limitations in terms of lithium‐ion transport, such as a much lower lithium transference number. Thus, a pyrrolidinium cation was prepared with an oligo(ethylene oxide) substituent with seven repeating units. We show, by a combination of experimental characterizations and simulations, that the cation's solvating properties allow faster lithium‐ion transport than alkyl‐substituted analogues when incorporated in SPEs. This proceeds not only by accelerating the conduction modes of PEO, but also by enabling new conduction modes linked to the solvation of lithium by a single IL cation. This, combined with favorable interfacial properties versus lithium metal, leads to significantly improved performance on lithium‐metal polymer batteries.
Transnasal sphenopalatine ganglion block for post‐dural puncture headache and associated tinnitus
Authors: Chua H. , Loh L. , Mok M.
Published: March 2021

Lumbar epidurals are frequently inserted for women in labour as they provide excellent analgesia. One of the more common procedural complications is post‐dural puncture headache which can be associated with auditory symptoms such as hearing loss and tinnitus and can be treated with an epidural blood patch. Sphenopalatine ganglion blocks have also been used to treat post‐dural puncture headache but have not been previously shown to resolve the associated tinnitus. We report a case where postural neck pain and tinnitus from an accidental dural puncture during lumbar epidural insertion for labour analgesia was treated successfully with a sphenopalatine ganglion block. Further, we explore the literature on the cause of tinnitus in post‐dural puncture headache and the possible mechanism by which a sphenopalatine ganglion block relieves both post‐dural puncture headache and the associated tinnitus.
Identification of a novel proline‐rich antimicrobial protein from the hemolymph of Antheraea mylitta
Authors: Chowdhury Trinath , Mandal Santi M. , Dutta Soumita , Ghosh Ananta K.
Published: March 2021

Antimicrobial proteins (AMPs) are small, cationic proteins that exhibit activity against bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi as well as boost host‐specific innate immune responses. Insects produce these AMPs in the fat body and hemocytes, and release them into the hemolymph upon microbial infection. Hemolymph was collected from the bacterially immunized fifth instar larvae of tasar silkworm, Antheraea mylitta, and an AMP was purified by organic solvent extraction followed by size exclusion and reverse‐phase high‐pressure liquid chromatography. The purity of AMP was confirmed by thin‐layer chromatography and sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis. The molecular mass was determined by matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry as 14 kDa, and hence designated as AmAMP14. Peptide mass fingerprinting of trypsin‐digested AmAMP14 followed by de novo sequencing of one peptide fragment by tandem mass spectrometry analysis revealed the amino acid sequences as CTSPKQCLPPCK. No homology was found in the database search and indicates it as a novel AMP. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the purified AmAMP14 was determined against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans as 30, 60, and 30 µg/ml, respectively. Electron microscopic examination of the AmAMP14‐treated cells revealed membrane damage and release of cytoplasmic contents. All these results suggest the production of a novel 14 kDa AMP in the hemolymph of A. mylitta to provide defense against microbial infection.
Eremophilane Sesquiterpenes and Benzene Derivatives from the Endophyte Microdiplodia sp. WGHS5
Authors: Khan Babar , Zhao Shuangshuang , Wang Zhiyang , Ye Yonghao , Ahmed Rajput Nasir , Yan Wei
Published: March 2021

Three new eremophilane sesquiterpenes phomadecalins G−I (1–3) and two new benzene derivatives microdiplzenes A and B (12 and 13), together with nine known eremophilane sesquiterpenes (4–11 and 14) were isolated from an endophytic fungus, Microdiplodia sp. WGHS5. Their structures were elucidated by the interpretation of HR‐ESI‐MS and NMR data; meanwhile, the absolute configurations of new compounds were determined on the base of ECD calculations. All compounds were evaluated for the antimicrobial activities and antiproliferative effect on human gastric cancer cell lines (BGC‐823).
Analog‐digital hybrid impression technique in an elderly patient: A case report
Authors: Papazoglou Efstratios , Charalambous Constantinos
Published: March 2021

The hybrid impression technique consists of an initial alginate impression that provides a preoperative cast upon which a diagnostic wax‐up and a silicone index are made. The wax‐up is digitized; thus, the final altered digital impression is limited to absolute minimum time, effort and ensures comfort for the patient.
Chemical Imaging of Mixed Metal Oxide Catalysts for Propylene Oxidation: From Model Binary Systems to Complex Multicomponent Systems
Authors: Sprenger Paul , Stehle Matthias , Gaur Abhijeet , Weiß Jana , Brueckner Dennis , Zhang Yi , Garrevoet Jan , Suuronen Jussi‐Petteri , Thomann Michael , Fischer Achim , Grunwaldt Jan‐Dierk , Sheppard Thomas L.
Published: March 2021

Industrially‐applied mixed metal oxide catalysts often possess an ensemble of structural components with complementary functions. Characterisation of these hierarchical systems is challenging, particularly moving from binary to quaternary systems. Here a quaternary Bi−Mo−Co−Fe oxide catalyst showing significantly greater activity than binary Bi−Mo oxides for selective propylene oxidation to acrolein was studied with chemical imaging techniques from the microscale to nanoscale. Conventional techniques like XRD and Raman spectroscopy could only distinguish a small number of components. Spatially‐resolved characterisation provided a clearer picture of metal oxide phase composition, starting from elemental distribution by SEM‐EDX and spatially‐resolved mapping of metal oxide components by 2D Raman spectroscopy. This was extended to 3D using multiscale hard X‐ray tomography with fluorescence, phase, and diffraction contrast. The identification and co‐localisation of phases in 2D and 3D can assist in rationalising catalytic performance during propylene oxidation, based on studies of model, binary, or ternary catalyst systems in literature. This approach is generally applicable and attractive for characterisation of complex mixed metal oxide systems.
Structure–activity relationship study of the anti‐obesity natural product yoshinone A
Authors: Kawazoe Yoshinori , Itakura Yuki , Inuzuka Toshiyasu , Omura Sachikazu , Uemura Daisuke
Published: March 2021

Yoshinone A was derived from marine algae and shown to inhibit adipogenic differentiation. The natural compound is composed of a γ‐pyrone ring and a side chain and that contains two asymmetric carbons. Although their absolute configuration has been determined, there is no information available on the stereoisomers and their bioactivities. To address this question, we synthesized all four stereoisomers and measured their activities. We also prepared three more derivatives of yoshinone A and found that the stereo‐configuration inside the side chain, the γ‐pyrone ring, and bulkiness of the side chain all played important roles in its activity. Our findings should help to elucidate the mechanism of action of yoshinone A.
Catalytic Hydrodesulfurization of Gaseous Fuels with Autogenously Formed Hydrogen
Authors: Optenhostert Thomas , Puthenkalam Sissy , Stegmann Niklas , Steffen Michael , Schmidt Wolfgang
Published: March 2021

Hydrogen production from gaseous fuels, such as natural or liquefied petroleum gas, for fuel cell application requires feedstock free of catalyst poisons. As sulfur is one of the main poisons, different methods are employed to remove sulfur species. We propose a process not requiring external hydrogen feed to the feedstock. The hydrogen for the hydrogenation of the sulfur species is obtained directly from the hydrocarbon matrix reacting on a zeolite catalyst. The result is a desulfurization process with considerably simplified process management and a superior process startup.
Methanol‐to‐Olefins Reaction over Large‐Pore Zeolites: Impact of Pore Structure on Catalytic Performance
Authors: Park Sungsik , Sato Gakuji , Osuga Ryota , Wang Yong , Kubota Yoshihiro , Kondo Junko N. , Gies Hermann , Tatsumi Takashi , Yokoi Toshiyuki
Published: March 2021

In the methanol‐to‐olefins (MTO) reaction, product flexibility is important for meeting the fluctuating chemicals demands. In this paper, the catalytic performance of recently reported zeolites having 12‐ring pores, such as boroaluminosilicate CON‐type zeolite ([Al,B]‐CON), MCM‐68, and YNU‐5 zeolites, in the MTO reaction was compared to understand the relationship between zeolite framework and product selectivity. The catalytic performance of the synthesized zeolites was compared with that of Beta, mordenite, and ZSM‐5. The highest selectivities for propylene and butylenes were achieved over MCM‐68. The highest propylene‐to‐ethylene ratio in the products was obtained over [Al,B]‐CON. ZSM‐5 and [Al,B]‐CON exhibited a superior ability to suppress coke formation compared to Beta, mordenite, MCM‐68, and YNU‐5.
Investigating epithelial‐mesenchymal heterogeneity of tumors and circulating tumor cells with transcriptomic analysis and biophysical modeling
Authors: Bocci Federico , Mandal Susmita , Tejaswi Tanishq , Jolly Mohit Kumar
Published: March 2021

Cellular heterogeneity along the epithelial‐mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) spectrum is a paramount feature observed in tumors and circulating tumor cells (CTCs). High‐throughput techniques now offer unprecedented details on this variability at a single‐cell resolution. Yet, there is no current consensus about how EMP in tumors propagates to that in CTCs. To investigate the relationship between EMP‐associated heterogeneity of tumors and that of CTCs, we integrated transcriptomic analysis and biophysical modeling. We apply three epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) scoring metrics to multiple tumor samples and CTC datasets from several cancer types. Moreover, we develop a biophysical model that couples EMT‐associated phenotypic switching in a primary tumor with cell migration. Finally, we integrate EMT transcriptomic analysis and in silico modeling to evaluate the predictive power of several measurements of tumor aggressiveness, including tumor EMT score, CTC EMT score, fraction of CTC clusters found in circulation, and CTC cluster size distribution. Analysis of high‐throughput datasets reveals a pronounced heterogeneity without a well‐defined relation between EMT traits in tumors and CTCs. Moreover, mathematical modeling predicts different phases where CTCs can be less, equally, or more mesenchymal than primary tumor depending on the dynamics of phenotypic transition and cell migration. Consistently, various datasets of CTC cluster size distribution from different cancer types are fitted onto different regimes of the model. By further constraining the model with experimental measurements of tumor EMT score, CTC EMT score, and fraction of CTC cluster in bloodstream, we show that none of these assays alone can provide sufficient information to predict the other variables. In conclusion, we propose that the relationship between EMT progression in tumors and CTCs can be variable, and in general, predicting one from the other may not be as straightforward as tacitly assumed.
Agent‐based modeling of the effects of forest dynamics, selective logging, and fragment size on epiphyte communities
Authors: Petter Gunnar , Zotz Gerhard , Kreft Holger , Cabral Juliano Sarmento
Published: March 2021

Forest canopies play a crucial role in structuring communities of vascular epiphytes by providing substrate for colonization, by locally varying microclimate, and by causing epiphyte mortality due to branch or tree fall. However, as field studies in the three‐dimensional habitat of epiphytes are generally challenging, our understanding of how forest structure and dynamics influence the structure and dynamics of epiphyte communities is scarce.

Mechanistic models can improve our understanding of epiphyte community dynamics. We present such a model that couples dispersal, growth, and mortality of individual epiphytes with substrate dynamics, obtained from a three‐dimensional functional–structural forest model, allowing the study of forest–epiphyte interactions. After validating the epiphyte model with independent field data, we performed several theoretical simulation experiments to assess how (a) differences in natural forest dynamics, (b) selective logging, and (c) forest fragmentation could influence the long‐term dynamics of epiphyte communities.

The proportion of arboreal substrate occupied by epiphytes (i.e., saturation level) was tightly linked with forest dynamics and increased with decreasing forest turnover rates. While species richness was, in general, negatively correlated with forest turnover rates, low species numbers in forests with very‐low‐turnover rates were due to competitive exclusion when epiphyte communities became saturated. Logging had a negative impact on epiphyte communities, potentially leading to a near‐complete extirpation of epiphytes when the simulated target diameters fell below a threshold. Fragment size had no effect on epiphyte abundance and saturation level but correlated positively with species numbers.

Synthesis: The presented model is a first step toward studying the dynamic forest–epiphyte interactions in an agent‐based modeling framework. Our study suggests forest dynamics as key factor in controlling epiphyte communities. Thus, both natural and human‐induced changes in forest dynamics, for example, increased mortality rates or the loss of large trees, pose challenges for epiphyte conservation.
A Molecular Imprinted Polymer Sensor for Biomonitoring of Fenamiphos Pesticide Metabolite Fenamiphos Sulfoxide
Authors: Qader Bakhtiyar , Hussain Issam , Baron Mark , Jimenez‐Perez Rebeca , Gonzalez‐Rodriguez Jose , Gil‐Ramírez Guzmán
Published: March 2021

A new electrochemical method for the identification and quantification of Fenamiphos pesticide's major metabolite in biological samples – Fenamiphos Sulphoxide (FNX) was developed. Computational calculations, Density Functional Theory (DFT) and semi‐empirical models (PM3) were performed to determine the best monomer, pyrrole, and a ratio of 1 : 5 (template: monomer) was chosen for the fabrication of the FNX−MIP sensor obtained by electropolymerization. The FNX−MIP sensor responded well to increasing FNX concentrations (range of 1–30 μM). Limit of detection and quantification (LOD=0.183 μM, LOQ=0.601 μM), respectively, selectivity, and repeatability were also investigated for the developed method. The obtained percentage of recovery showed good agreement compared to reference values obtained from GC‐MS, which was used as a reference method. The FXN−MIP sensor proved selective in the presence of potential interferents. The developed sensor was successfully applied for the determination of FNX in spiked plasma and urine matrixes with acceptable recovery rates. The proposed method also proved successful in detecting FNX prepared from the in vitro metabolism of FNP using liver microsomes to metabolize it.
GreenCloudNet++: Simulation framework for energy efficient and secure, green job scheduling in geographically distributed data centers
Authors: Mahmood Farrukh , Zeeshan Khan Farrukh , Ahmed Muneer , Ahmad Iftikhar , Gupta Brij B.
Published: March 2021

Geographically distributed data centers are used as backbone infrastructure to meet rapidly increasing service demands of computations and data storage in cloud computing. This increase results in high energy consumption, increased operational expenditures, and high carbon footprint which are becoming points of great concern for service providers. In this research work, we present a simulation framework named GreenCloudNet++ for simulation and evaluation of energy‐efficient, green‐aware, and secure job scheduling mechanisms for geographically distributed data centers. GreenCloudNet++ has been developed as an extension to CloudNetSim++, which is designed to simulate distributed data center architectures connected with high speed networks. The functionality of CloudNetSim++ is extended by adding hierarchical job scheduling mechanism, hierarchical statistics collection mechanism and integration mechanism for green energy. Proposed model considers availability of green energy at each data center and maximizes its utilization. It considers the amount of underutilized computational resources at individual data centers while assigning jobs to the data centers, which helps to achieve better server consolidation resulting in better energy efficiency. Proposed model also relies on network load inside each data center which helps avoiding hotspots.
Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, statins and risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Liebow Mark , Larson Melissa C. , Thompson Carrie A. , Nowakowski Grzegorz S. , Call Timothy G. , Macon William R. , Kay Neil E. , Habermann Thomas M. , Slager Susan L. , Cerhan James R.
Published: March 2021

Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and statin drugs may protect against the development of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), but data are limited, particularly for NHL subtypes. Furthermore, some in vitro, animal and epidemiologic data suggest there may be a synergistic effect of these two agents, but there has been no test of this hypothesis in NHL. We evaluated the self‐reported use of NSAIDs and statins in a clinic‐based study of 1703 NHL patients and 2199 frequency‐matched controls. Unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusted for potential confounding variables. We observed an inverse association of regular use of low‐dose aspirin with risk of NHL (OR = 0.82; 95% CI 0.70‐0.96) that was stronger with longer duration of use (P < .01). There were no associations for use of regular or extra‐strength aspirin, ibuprofen, other NSAIDs, statins or other cholesterol‐lowering drugs with NHL risk, while an inverse association with COX‐2 inhibitors was equivocal. There was also no interaction of low‐dose aspirin and statins on NHL risk. Inverse associations of similar magnitude to all NHL were observed for regular use of low‐dose aspirin with diffuse large B‐cell, follicular, marginal zone and all other lymphomas, although not all associations were statistically significant. In conclusion, low‐dose aspirin but not regular/extra strength aspirin, other NSAIDs or statin use was associated with lower risk of NHL. Beyond the potential for the primary prevention of NHL, these data also point to a role of anti‐platelet or other effects of low‐dose aspirin in lymphomagenesis that warrant follow‐up.
Rapid development of a de novo convalescent plasma program in response to a global pandemic: A large southeastern U.S. blood center's experience
Authors: Reik Rita , Gammon Richard R. , Carol Nancy , Smith Judith , Grable Martin , Forbes Susan , Wu Yanyun , Reed Lance , Rogers Michael , Prichard Alicia , Paul Scott , Scholl George
Published: March 2021

Background

During the pandemic in the spring of 2020 with no vaccine or treatment for SARS‐CoV‐2 and its associated disease, COVID‐19, convalescent plasma from recovered COVID‐19 (CCP) patients offered a potential therapy. In March 2020, the United States (U.S.) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized CCP under emergency Investigational New Drug (eIND) exemption and an IRB‐approved Expanded Access Program (EAP) to treat severe COVID‐19. Hospital demand grew rapidly in the Southeastern U.S., resulting in backlogs of CCP orders. We describe a large U.S. blood center's (BC) rapid implementation of a CCP program in response to community needs.

Study design and methods

From April 2 to May 17, 2020, CCP was collected by whole blood or apheresis. Initial manual approaches to donor intake, collection, and distribution were rapidly replaced with automated processes. All CCP donors and products underwent FDA‐required screening and testing.

Results

A total of 619 CCP donors (299 females, 320 males) presented for CCP donation (161 [25.7%] whole blood, 466 [74.3%] plasmapheresis) resulting in 1219 CCP units. Production of CCP increased as processes were automated and streamlined, from a mean of 11 donors collected/day for the first month to a mean of 25 donors collected/day in the subsequent 2 weeks. Backlogged orders were cleared, and inventory began to accumulate 4 weeks after project initiation.

Conclusion

The BC was able to implement an effective de novo CCP collection program within 6 weeks in response to a community need in a global pandemic. Documentation of the experience may inform preparedness for future pandemics.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor toxicity: A new indication for therapeutic plasma exchange?
Authors: Compton Frances , He Lin , Sarode Ravi , Wodajo Amelework , Usmani Amena , Burner James , Berlacher Mark , De Simone Nicole
Published: March 2021

Novel immune‐modulating anticancer drugs are being used with increasing frequency. With increased use, there are more frequent cases of toxicities caused by these drugs, termed immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). We present a case in which we successfully treated a case of severe, steroid‐refractory, nivolumab‐induced myocarditis with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). Nivolumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) which blocks programmed death receptor‐1 (PD‐1). This blockade allows for enhanced T‐cell function and increased anti‐tumor response. The patient presented with signs and symptoms of heart failure and was found to have a significantly depressed cardiac ejection fraction. Over the course of her five TPE procedures, she improved clinically and was discharged home with improved left ventricular ejection function. This case suggests an emerging role of TPE in the management of severe ICI‐induced toxicity, such as myocarditis.
Regulation of lysyl oxidase expression in THP‐1 cell‐derived M2‐like macrophages
Authors: Takemoto Ryuhei , Kamiya Tetsuro , Atobe Taku , Hara Hirokazu , Adachi Tetsuo
Published: March 2021

Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a copper‐containing enzyme and its overexpression in tumor tissues promote tumor metastasis through the crosslinking of extracellular matrix. Our previous report demonstrated that LOX expression is significantly increased in human leukemic THP‐1 cell‐derived M2‐like macrophages, and histone modification plays a key role in its induction. However, the rigorous mechanism of LOX regulation remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of functional transcription factors, hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF1α), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) in LOX regulation in M2‐like macrophages. HIF1α expression was significantly increased in M2‐like macrophages, and HIF1α inhibitor, TX402, suppressed LOX induction. The significant STAT3 activation was also observed in M2‐like macrophages. Additionally, LOX induction was canceled in the presence of STAT3 inhibitor, S3I‐201, suggesting that HIF1α and STAT3 pathways play a critical role in LOX induction. On the other hand, our ChIP results clearly indicated that the enrichment of FOXO1 within the lox promoter region was dramatically decreased in M2‐like macrophages. In this context, knockdown of FOXO1 further enhanced LOX induction. LOX induction and HIF1α binding to the lox promoter region were suppressed in FOXO1‐overexpressed cells, suggesting that the FOXO1 binding to the lox promoter region counteracted HIF1α binding to that region. Overall, the present data suggested that both of HIF1α and STAT3 were required for LOX induction in M2‐like macrophages, and loss of FOXO1 within the lox promoter region facilitated HIF1α binding to that region which promoted LOX induction.