bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of pore size and spacing on neovascularization of a biodegradble shape memory polymer perivascular wrap
Authors: Boire Timothy C. , Himmel Lauren E. , Yu Fang , Guth Christy M. , Dollinger Bryan R. , Werfel Thomas A. , Balikov Daniel A. , Duvall Craig L.
Published: June 2020

Neointimal hyperplasia (NH) is a main source of failures in arteriovenous fistulas and vascular grafts. Several studies have demonstrated the promise of perivascular wraps to reduce NH via promotion of adventitial neovascularization and providing mechanical support. Limited clinical success thus far may be due to inappropriate material selection (e.g., nondegradable, too stiff) and geometric design (e.g., pore size and spacing, diameter). The influence of pore size and spacing on implant neovascularization is investigated here for a new biodegradable, thermoresponsive shape memory polymer (SMP) perivascular wrap. Following an initial pilot, 21 mice were each implanted with six scaffolds: four candidate SMP macroporous designs (a–d), a nonporous SMP control (e), and microporous GORETEX (f). Mice were sacrificed after 4 (N = 5), 14 (N = 8), and 28 (N = 8) days. There was a statistically significant increase in neovascularization score between all macroporous groups compared to nonporous SMP (p < .023) and microporous GORETEX (p < .007) controls at Day 28. Wider‐spaced, smaller‐sized pore designs (223 μm‐spaced, 640 μm‐diameter Design c) induced the most robust angiogenic response, with greater microvessel number (p < .0114) and area (p < .0055) than nonporous SMPs and GORETEX at Day 28. This design also produced significantly greater microvessel density than nonporous SMPs (p = 0.0028) and a smaller‐spaced, larger‐sized pore (155 μm‐spaced, 1,180 μm‐sized Design b) design (p = .0013). Strong neovascularization is expected to reduce NH, motivating further investigation of this SMP wrap with controlled pore spacing and size in more advanced arteriovenous models.
New antiglaucomatous agent for the treatment of open angle glaucoma: Polymeric inserts for drug release and in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Cesar Aina Liz A. , Navarro Larissa Caldeira , Castilho Rachel Oliveira , Goulart Gisele Assis Castro , Foureaux Giselle , Ferreira Anderson J. , Cronemberger Sebastião , Gomes Faraco André Augusto
Published: June 2020

A benzamidine derivative from diminazene was tested for a novel activity: treatment of primary open‐angle glaucoma. This drug was incorporated into mucoadhesive polymeric inserts prepared using chitosan (Chs) and chondroitin sulfate (CS). Of current interest is the mucoadhesion, which increases the contact time with the ocular surface, resulting in improved bioavailability; also, the inserts are made to act as a prolonged release system. In the present work the inserts were prepared by the solvent casting method using different polymeric proportions (30:70, 50:50, 75:25% w/w Chs:CS and 100% Chs). Thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy both demonstrated physical dispersion of the active drug. The most promising was the 50:50% Chs:CS which demonstrated that it was not fragile and has an in vitro release profile of up to 180 minutes. In addition, it presented greater adhesion strength in relation to the other formulations. These physicochemical results corroborate the in vivo tests performed. In this sense, we also demonstrated that the treatment with the 50:50% insert can control the intraocular pressure (IOP) for at least 3 weeks and prevents damage to the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) compared to the placebo insert. Thus, this indicates thus that the new drug is quite viable and promising in glaucoma treatment.
Elevated serum aspartate aminotransferase level identifies patients with coronavirus disease 2019 and predicts the length of hospital stay
Authors: Gu Xuexiang , Li Xiangyu , An Xusheng , Yang Shufeng , Wu Shangnong , Yang Xiaozhong , Wang Honggang
Published: June 2020

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has become a worldwide public health emergency. This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of liver blood tests in COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

The analysis included clinical data of 23 patients with suspected COVID‐19 and 66 patients with confirmed COVID‐19 from January 25 to February 20, 2020. The relationship between liver blood test results, liver condition (HBsAb positive, HBcAb positive, and fatty liver disease), and duration of hospital stay among COVID‐19 patients was analyzed.

Results

The median hospital stay of COVID‐19 patients was 6 days. Serum albumin (Alb) level was lower in patients with COVID‐19 confirmed on admission than in patients with suspected COVID‐19 (40.08 g/L vs 42.50 g/L, P = .016), while the level of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was higher (23 U/L vs 18 U/L, P = .005). Abnormal results of liver blood tests in patients with COVID‐19 included increased levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) (21.2%, 14 patients), AST (15.2%, 10 patients), and gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) (22.7%, 15 patients). After 5‐10 days of treatment, levels of Alb and AST in COVID‐19 patients were significantly decreased (P < .001 and P = .027, respectively). Abnormal levels of Alb and AST in patients with COVID‐19 were not associated with the liver condition (all P > .05). In addition, only levels of AST were positively correlated with the duration of hospital stay (r = .334, P = .007).

Conclusion

Abnormal results of the liver blood test were found in COVID‐19 patients. The COVID‐19 patients on admission with the higher levels of AST might have longer hospital stays.
Effects of Xeroderma pigmentosum group C polymorphism on the likelihood of prostate cancer
Authors: Yan Yidan , Xu Jianmin , Xu Bin , Wen Qiaxian , Zhou Jing , Zhang Lifeng , Zuo Li , Lv Guoqiang , Shi Yunfeng
Published: June 2020

Background

Numerous studies have assessed the association between xeroderma pigmentosum complementation group C (XPC) polymorphisms and susceptibility of prostate cancer (PCa); however, the findings remain inconsistent.

Methods

We performed an updated analysis utilizing data from electronic databases to obtain a more accurate estimation of the relationship between XPC rs2228001 A/C polymorphism and PCa risk. We further used in silico tools to investigate this correlation.

Results

Totally, 5,305 PCa cases and 6,499 control subjects were evaluated. When all studies pooled together, we detected no positive result (recessive genetic model: OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.93‐1.40, Pheterogeneity = 0.001, P = .212); nevertheless, the XPC rs2228001 A/C variant was associated with PCa risk in Asian descendants in the subgroup analysis (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.01‐1.43, Pheterogeneity = 0.008, P = .034). In silico tools showed that more than 20 proteins can participate in the protein crosstalk with XPC. The expression of XPC was down‐regulated in all Gleason scores of prostate cancer.

Conclusions

The present study indicated that the XPC rs2228001 A/C variant may be associated with elevated PCa risk in Asian patients.
Analysis of clinical features and outcomes of 161 patients with severe and critical COVID‐19: A multicenter descriptive study
Authors: Shi Ming , Chen Lianhua , Yang Yadong , Zhang Jingpeng , Xu Ji , Xu Gang , Li Bin , Yin Yiping
Published: June 2020

Background

This study aimed to investigate clinical characteristics, laboratory indexes, treatment regimens, and short‐term outcomes of severe and critical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients.

Methods

One hundred and sixty one consecutive severe and critical COVID‐19 patients admitted in intensive care unit (ICU) were retrospectively reviewed in this multicenter study. Demographic features, medical histories, clinical symptoms, lung computerized tomography (CT) findings, and laboratory indexes on admission were collected. Post‐admission complications, treatment regimens, and clinical outcomes were also documented.

Results

The mean age was 59.38 ± 16.54 years, with 104 (64.60%) males and 57 (35.40%) females. Hypertension (44 [27.33%]) and diabetes were the most common medical histories. Fever (127 [78.88%]) and dry cough (111 [68.94%]) were the most common symptoms. Blood routine indexes, hepatic and renal function indexes, and inflammation indexes were commonly abnormal. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was the most common post‐admission complication (69 [42.86%]), followed by electrolyte disorders (48 [29.81%]), multiple organ dysfunction (MODS) (37 [22.98%]), and hypoproteinemia (36 [22.36%]). The most commonly used antiviral drug was lopinavir/ritonavir tablet. 50 (31.06%) patients died, while 78 (48.45%) patients healed and discharged, and the last 33 (20.50%) patients remained in hospital. Besides, the mean hospital stay of deaths was 21.66 ± 11.18 days, while the mean hospital stay of discharged patients was 18.42 ± 12.77 days. Furthermore, ARDS (P < .001) and MODS (P = .008) correlated with increased mortality rate.

Conclusion

Severe and critical COVID‐19 presents with high mortality rate, and occurrence of ARDS or MODS greatly increases its mortality risk.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Norvancomycin in Children With Malignant Hematological Disease
Authors: Wang Jun , Li Si‐chan , Ye Qi , Gao Liu‐liu , Nie Ying‐ming , Xu Hua , Wu Mo , Cao Peng , Wang Yang
Published: June 2020

Knowledge of pharmacokinetic (PK) behavior of norvancomycin (NVCM) in pediatric patients is lacking, which leads to empirical therapy in clinical practice. This study developed a population PK model of children aged 0‐15 years; 112 opportunistic samples in total from 90 children were analyzed. The stability and prediction of the final model were evaluated by goodness‐of‐fit plots, nonparametric bootstrap, visual predictive check, and normalized prediction distribution errors. The PKs of NVCM in children was described by a 2‐compartment model with first‐order elimination along with body weight and estimated glomerular filtration rate as significant covariates on clearance. The population typical values of the PK parameters were as follows: clearance 0.12 L/kg/h, central compartment distribution volume 0.17 L/kg, peripheral compartment distribution volume 0.38 L/kg, and intercompartmental clearance 0.35 L/kg/h. Logistic analysis showed that the ratio of area under the concentration‐time curve over 24 hours (AUC0‐24) to minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) had the strongest correlation with clinical efficacy, and at least 80% clinical efficiency could be achieved when AUC0‐24/MIC ≥ 221.06 was defined as the target. Monte Carlo simulation results suggested that a higher dose was required for this pediatric population in order to reach the target. The dosing regimen was optimized based on the final model. A population PK model of NVCM was first characterized in children with hematologic malignancy, and an evidence‐based approach for NVCM dosage individualization was provided.
Effect of 3 Single Doses of Trazodone on QTc Interval in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Tellone Valeria , Rosignoli Maria Teresa , Picollo Rossella , Dragone Patrizia , Del Vecchio Alessandra , Comandini Alessandro , Radicioni Milko , Leuratti Chiara , Calisti Fabrizio
Published: June 2020

This study evaluated the effect of 3 doses of a trazodone hydrochloride 6% oral drops solution on the QT interval of healthy volunteers. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of trazodone 20 mg, 60 mg, and 140 mg, moxifloxacin 400 mg, and trazodone‐matched placebo in 5 periods separated by 7‐day washouts, according to a double‐blind, crossover study design. Subjects were monitored continuously, and triplicate ECGs were extracted from baseline (predose) until 24 hours postdose. Blood samples for trazodone and moxifloxacin analyses were collected at the same time points. The concentration‐QTc relationship assessed on placebo‐adjusted change from baseline for Fridericia‐corrected QT (ΔΔQTcF) was the primary end point. ΔΔQTcF values of 4.5, 12.3, and 19.8 ms for the 20‐, 60‐, and 140‐mg doses were observed at the corresponding trazodone peak plasma concentrations. The upper bound of the 90%CI exceeded 10 ms for the 60‐ and the 140‐mg doses. Time‐matched analysis results were in line with these findings. No significant trazodone effect on heart rate or PR or QRS intervals and no clinically significant new morphological changes were present. In this moxifloxacin‐validated ECG trial, trazodone had a modest, dose‐dependent effect on cardiac repolarization, with no QTc prolongation observed with the 20‐mg dose and an effect exceeding the values set in E14 guideline with the 60‐ and 140‐mg doses. The effect on cardiac repolarization is unlikely to represent a clinical risk for ventricular proarrhythmia, but caution should be used with concomitant use of other medications that prolong QT or increase trazodone exposure.
Prenatal diagnosis of a right coronary artery to right atrial fistula with a giant coronary artery aneurysm: A case report
Authors: Cui Cunying , Liang Weijie , Fan Taibing , Liu Lin
Published: June 2020

Coronary artery fistula (CAF) is a rare cardiac anomaly. Here, we diagnosed a right coronary artery‐right atrium fistula with giant coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) via fetal echocardiography at 35 weeks' gestation. An urgent caesarean delivery was performed at 36 weeks' gestation because CAA caused mitral obstruction, and fetal atrial flutter was present. Following delivery, we performed aneurysm ligation because the new‐born developed atrial tachycardia. The intraoperative findings confirmed the sonographic findings. To the best of our knowledge, prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of CAF and giant CAA has not been reported in the literature. We focus on the ultrasonic characteristics and differential diagnosis in this literature.
Relapse of follicular lymphoma arising from a non‐t(14;18) clone
Authors: Otsuka Yasuyuki , Nishikori Momoko , Fujimoto Masakazu , Nakao Kensuke , Hishizawa Masakatsu , Haga Hironori , Takaori‐Kondo Akifumi
Published: June 2020

Intraclonal diversity is commonly observed in patients with follicular lymphoma (FL), whereas tumor cells at the onset and relapse usually share early genetic events such as VDJ rearrangement of the immunoglobulin genes and t(14;18) translocation. We report a case of FL with relapse with FL that was clonally different from the tumor cells at onset. A 59‐year‐old male presented with paraaortic lymph node swelling and thickening of the right renal pelvic and ureteral wall was histologically diagnosed as FL, grade 1. Karyotypic analysis revealed t(14;18)(q32;q21) with +12 and +der(18)t(14;18). Ten years after the initial diagnosis, he suddenly developed systemic lymphadenopathy as a second relapse, and histological examination led to the diagnosis of FL grade 3B with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Surprisingly, karyotypic analysis demonstrated the presence of +12 and 3q27 abnormality, which was proved to be a BCL6 translocation by fluorescence in situ hybridization, but the absence of t(14;18)(q32;q21). We compared VDJ rearrangement of the FL cells at onset and relapse and found that they were completely independent of each other. These tumor cells sharetrisomy 12 as a common genetic abnormality, and it is speculated that trisomy 12 may have occurred earlier than BCL2 and BCL6 translocations. These results suggest that there can even be cases of “relapse” of FL with an independent origin of the primary tumor cells. Our observation highlights the importance of re‐biopsy of relapsed FL, especially when it occurs after a long remission with different clinical presentation from that at the onset.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Short Fluorocarbon Chain Cationic Surfactant
Authors: Zhu Xinhua , Jia Xuhong , Zhang Yuqiang , Luo Yuzhen , Bo Haidong
Published: June 2020

A novel short fluorocarbon chain cationic surfactant has been synthesized to reduce the bioaccumulation of traditional fluorocarbon surfactants and maintain excellent surface properties simultaneously. The structure, surface activity, and micelle formation of surfactants have been investigated by surface tension, conductivity, dynamic light scattering, steady‐state fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Nuclear magnetic resonance. The novel surfactant (yield more than 81%) exhibited good surface activity, the critical micelle concentration and surface tension were below 2.35 mmol L−1 and 20.54 mN m−1 in the range of temperature from 288 to 303 K, respectively. The surface tension decreased to 17.45 mN m−1 with an increase in temperature. The thermodynamic parameters (, and ) of micellization for surfactants were evaluated, which implying the micellization process was contributed primarily by the entropy driving. In addition, the aggregation behavior of surfactants was also studied in detail, which demonstrated a small micelle aggregation number of 9.40 and large size distribution of 164–342 nm.
Influence of acid‐base dissociation equilibria during electromembrane extraction
Authors: Restan Magnus Saed , Ramsrud Sindre Bergstrøm , Jensen Henrik , Pedersen‐Bjergaard Stig
Published: June 2020

Electromembrane extraction is affected by acid–base equilibria of the extracted substances as well as coupled equilibria associated with the partitioning of neutral substances to the supported liquid membrane. A theoretical model for this was developed and verified experimentally in the current work using pure 2‐nitrophenyl octyl ether as supported liquid membrane. From this model, extraction efficiency as a function of pH can be predicted. Substances with log P < 0–2 are generally extracted with low efficiency. Substances with log P > 2 are generally extracted with high efficiency when acceptor pH < pKaH − log P. Twelve basic drug substances (2.07 < log P < 6.57 and 6.03 < pKaH < 10.47) were extracted under different pH conditions with 2‐nitrophenyl octyl ether as supported liquid membrane and fitted to the model. Seven of the drug substances behaved according to the model, while those with log P close to 2.0 deviated from prediction. The deviation was most probably caused by deprotonation and ion pairing within the supporting liquid membrane. Measured partition coefficients (log P) between 2‐nitrophenyl octyl ether and water, were similar to traditional log P values between n‐octanol and water. Thus, the latter have potential for pKaH − log P predictions.
Electrophilic reactivities of 7‐L‐4‐nitrobenzofurazans in σ‐complexation processes: Kinetic studies and structure–reactivity relationships
Authors: Ayachi Hajer , Raissi Hanen , Mahdhaoui Faouzi , Boubaker Taoufik
Published: June 2020

The second‐order rate constants (k) for reaction of 7‐chloro‐4‐nitrobenzofurazan 1 and 7‐methoxy‐4‐nitrobenzofurazan 2 with a series of nitroalkyl anions and several of para‐substituted phenoxide anions in aqueous solution at 20 °C have been reported. On the basis of the linear novel approach recently designed by Mayr and coworkers, the electrophilicity parameters E at the C‐5 position of the two nitrobenzofurazans 1 and 2 have been quantified and ranked on the comprehensive electrophilicity scale. Mayr's approach was found to correctly predict the rate constants for the addition of phenoxide anions at the C‐5 position of 1 and 2 witting a factor of <2. Analysis of the kinetic measurements using Brønsted's model shows that βnuc values remain remarkably constant for changes in the nature of the substituent and that the σ‐complexation process is associated with high Marcus intrinsic barriers. In addition, satisfactory correlations between the log kexp (kexp values measured in this work for reactions of benzofurazans 1 and 2 with a series of phenoxide anions in aqueous solution at 20 °C) and log kcalcd (kcalcd values calculated from equation 1 using the electrophilicity parameters E of benzofurazans 1 and 2 and the previously published nucleophilicity parameters N and sN of the phenoxide anions) with a slope very close to unity have been obtained and discussed.
MiR‐559 targets GP73 to suppress proliferation and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma in vitro
Authors: Zheng Xue‐Song , Liu Hai‐Jie , Zhang Lian‐Lian , Li Hui , Wang Chun‐Jing , Xin Ye‐Jiu , Hao Rui
Published: June 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the common malignant tumors with poor overall prognosis. As a tumor suppressor, the function of miR‐559 in HCC is not clear. In this study, quantitative real‐time PCR was carried out to measure the expression of miR‐559 in HCC cell lines. The effects of miR‐559 on HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were evaluated through a series of functional assays. The mechanism through which miR‐559 regulates HCC cells was investigated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and functional experiments. The results revealed that miR‐559 expression was low in HCC cell lines. Upregulation of miR‐559 suppressed HCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay confirmed Golgi membrane protein 73 (GP73) as a target gene of miR‐559. Moreover, miR‐559 could negatively regulate GP73 expression in HCC cells. These results demonstrated that low‐level expression of miR‐559 was associated with HCC, and overexpression of miR‐559 could inhibit HCC cell growth and invasion via targeting GP73.
Construction of eco‐friendly corrosion inhibitor lignin derivative with excellent corrosion‐resistant behavior in hydrochloric acid solution
Authors: Gao Chao , Zhao Xin , Liu Keyin , Dong Xinyu , Wang Shoujuan , Kong Fangong
Published: June 2020

Organic corrosion inhibitors from natural plant resources have received extensive attention in recent years. Herein, an eco‐friendly corrosion inhibitor lignin–(2,3‐epoxypropyl)trimethyl ammonium chloride (EPTAC) was successfully prepared by grafting EPTAC to kraft lignin. The inhibiting efficiency and its inhibition mechanism were investigated using electrochemical methods, adsorption thermodynamics analysis, and molecular dynamic simulation. The results showed that the lignin–EPTAC molecules formed a protective film on iron surface, resulting in an excellent inhibition efficiency of 97.80% at 100 mg/L concentration. The average surface roughness of steel samples was reduced to 26.6 nm from the original 99.3 nm. The adsorption of lignin–EPTAC molecules on the steel surface follows Langmuir adsorption isotherm model and was a physical–chemical process as well as an exothermic process of entropy reduction. This adsorption of lignin–EPTAC was a conjugated system dominated by benzene ring of lignin–EPTAC to form a chemical bond on the steel surface by conjugation, besides a positive interaction between the metal surface and the positively charged N ions in the head group of lignin–EPTAC.
Analytical solution of free convection heat transfer of hybrid nanofluids over a vertical flat plate embedded in a porous medium
Authors: Ghalambaz Mehdi , Noghrehabadi Aminreza , Chamkha Ali , Nadeem Sohail
Published: June 2020

The natural convection heat transfer of hybrid nanofluids over a vertical plate embedded in a saturated Darcy porous medium is analytically investigated. The base partial differential equations were reduced to a set of high‐order nonlinear differential equations by using appropriate similarity variables. A new analytical solution based on the power series–transformation method is presented, and the effect of the presence of hybrid nanoparticles in the form of nondimensional parameters is investigated.
Wideband microstrip‐to‐air‐filled substrate integrated waveguide transition with controllable band‐pass performance
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Wang Wenbo , Sun Dongquan , Deng Jing‐Ya
Published: June 2020

A novel wideband back‐to‐back microstrip‐to‐air‐filled substrate integrated waveguide (AFSIW) transition with controllable band‐pass performance is presented. The wideband transition is constructed by a gradient microstrip and a section of widened partially dielectric‐filled AFSIW. The sharp rejection performance above the pass band is achieved by taking advantage of the notch characteristics of the widened partially dielectric‐filled AFSIW section. The lower stop band is determined by the cut‐off characteristic of the intermediate AFSIW between the back‐to‐back transitions. The relationship between the band‐pass response and the dimensional parameters of the transition is investigated. A prototype is designed, manufactured and measured. The measured fractional bandwidth (FBW) is 57.63% centered at 14.75 GHz. The suppression over 20 ~ 25 GHz is better than 25 dB, and a transmission zero with a suppression of 51.7 dB is introduced at 1 GHz away from the upper‐edge frequency of the pass band.
First data on animal exploitation in Funj Sultanate, Kingdom of Dongola, Sudan (16th–17th centuries)
Authors: Osypińska Marta , Godlewski Włodzimierz
Published: June 2020

The scientific importance of the archaeozoological study of 16th‐ to 17th‐century faunal materials from Old Dongola in Sudan cannot be overstated in view of it being the only regular project of its kind on postmedieval material from Sudan to date. The results highlight the dynamics of the sociopolitical transformation taking place at this time. From the point of view of the economy, domestic cattle were the most important species, and there are certain indications in favour of long‐distance trade following mainly a north–south vector and taking advantage of the old early Makurian forts. The archaeozoological data reflect the presence of large homogeneous populations of short‐horned cattle resembling the varieties kept in Meroitic times. Small ruminants held an important place in local consumption patterns; and new species, the camel and the domestic chicken, gained a place for themselves in this period. A much more extensive use of wild game—birds, reptiles and species of catfish—also distinguished the economy of 16th‐ to 17th‐century Dongola.
2020 State of the Water Industry Survey Suggests Glass Half Full
Authors: Flancher Dawn
Published: June 2020

Before COVID‐19 became humanity's primary focus, water professionals expressed increased optimism for their industry's future in AWWA's 2020 State of the Water Industry (SOTWI) survey. Now in its 16th year, the survey closed in November 2019 with an unprecedented 3,351 responses—up 39 percent from the previous year.
Source Water Monitoring Prepares Utilities for Changing Conditions
Authors: Schippert Tom , Duncan Joe
Published: June 2020

When Vermont's Champlain Water District established its source water protection and monitoring practices years ago, it relied on Partnership for Safe Water and in‐house expertise. The district was the first water supplier in the United States to receive the Partnership's Excellence in Water Treatment Award and has become a role model for water utilities across North America.
Water Fluoridation Basics: What Operators Need to Know
Authors: Duchon Kip
Published: June 2020

Fluoride can greatly reduce the incidence of tooth decay among children. However, to achieve fluoridation's maximum benefits, the optimal fluoride concentration in the water supply must be continuously maintained.
Prepare for Earthquakes With USEPA Guidance and Training
Authors: Goldbloom‐Helzner David , Pickard Brian
Published: June 2020

The US Environmental Protection Agency has developed tools to help water and wastewater utilities prepare for and mitigate earthquake damage and disruption
POSS nanoparticles as a potential compatibilizer for natural rubber/butadiene rubber blends
Authors: Ercan Kalkan Merve , Karakaya Nursel , Özkoç Güralp
Published: June 2020

In this study, it was aimed to investigate octavinyl‐polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (OV‐POSS) incorporation into natural rubber (NR)/butadiene rubber (BR) elastomer blends as a potential compatibilizer. The effects of OV‐POSS loading levels on the thermal, mechanical, morphological, and dynamic‐mechanical properties of elastomer blends were explored. Fourier‐Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), Temperature Scanning Stress Relaxation (TSSR), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) results revealed the conceivable effect of OV‐POSS nanoparticles in the vulcanization through reacting with sulfur and/or elastomers. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), and tensile test measurements supported the improvement of mechanical properties due to homogeneous dispersion at low loading levels. On the other hand, high amount of OV‐POSS incorporation (7 and 10 phr) resulted in a decrease in mechanical properties, owing to the agglomeration of nanoparticles. According to contact angle and Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) results, it could be concluded that OV‐POSS nanoparticles were localized at the interface of the elastomers and enabled the compatibilization of immiscible NR/BR blends.
Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor and sunscreen effective compounds from Rumex crispus L.: isolation, identification, bioactivity and molecular docking study
Authors: Uzun Mine , Guvenalp Zuhal , Kazaz Cavit , Demirezer L. Omur
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Rumex (Polygonaceae) species are widely grown worldwide and their main compounds are anthranoids, tannins, naphthalenes and flavonoids. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) enzymes that cause the breakdown of the extracellular matrix and harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays are two important causes of skin ageing. Although there have been many studies on anthraquinones, there are not many studies on their anti‐ageing effects.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the anti‐ageing effects of pure compounds isolated from Rumex crispus L. by measuring their MMP inhibitory and sunscreen activities.

Methodology

Molecular docking studies on anthranoid, flavonoid, tannin and naphthalene skeletons with MMP enzymes were applied for the first time. Various chromatographic methods were used for isolation studies. The structure elucidation was performed by spectroscopic [UV, infrared (IR), electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)] methods. To determine the anti‐ageing capacity of compounds, MMP‐1, MMP‐8, MMP‐13 enzyme inhibitory effects and sun protection factors (SPFs) were investigated for the first time.

Results

Molecular docking results showed that skeletons had low binding energy to the target and were likely to inhibit MMP enzymes. Then, eight anthraquinones and a naphthalene glycoside were isolated from the underground parts of Rumex crispus L. According to the results, MMP inhibitory effects of compounds were found to be high. In vitro and molecular docking study results confirmed each other. All anthraquinones showed high sun protection and emodin showed highest UV capability with SPF of 30.59.

Conclusion

This study shows that anthraquinones may be evaluated as new potential MMP inhibitors, sun protective and anti‐ageing agents.
Registration of Spear‐shaped Leaf peanut genetic stock
Authors: Brown Nino , Branch William D.
Published: June 2020

In 2012, a single Spear‐shaped Leaf mutant peanut (Reg. no. GS‐11, PI 693219) (Arachis hypogaea L.) plant was identified in a breeding trial plot of ‘Georgia‐06G’ at the University of Georgia, Coastal Plain Experiment Station's Gibbs Research Farm in Tifton, GA. It was believed to be a spontaneous mutation; an inheritance study examining segregation in an F2 population concluded single gene inheritance with incomplete dominance, and the gene was designated SpL. The unique phenotype and inheritance of this mutation makes the Spear‐shaped Leaf an interesting mutant to be preserved as a genetic stock and released to the public for researchers interested in the genetic, biochemical, and physiological aspects of leaf shape and leaf development. The Spear‐shaped Leaf mutant could also serve as a tool to measure outcrossing in the field or as a border or plot marker.
Influence of dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma on physicochemical property of milk for sterilization
Authors: Wu Xiaomeng , Luo Yanghe , Zhao Fujunzhu , M Safian Murad , Mu Guangqing
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mechanism of dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma (DBD‐CP) sterilizing function on milk and to analyze the influences of DBD‐CP on the structure and physicochemical performance of milk. It was verified that DBD‐CP sterilizing function resulted in a broken bacterial cell membrane, reduced activity of metabolic enzymes, and bacterial DNA destruction. DBD‐CP treatment would bring in some more stabilized structures obtained from scanning electron microscopy and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The values of color, viscosity, pH, and titratable acidity showed an acceptable physicochemical property with DBD‐CP treatment at 70 V (120 s) and 80 V (120 s). Therefore, it indicated that DBD‐CP could be used as a new sterilization method for milk.
Metabolism and disposition of oseltamivir (OS) in rats, determined by immunohistochemistry with monospecific antibody for OS or its active metabolite oseltamivir carboxylate (OC): A possibility of transporters dividing the drugs’ excretion into the bile and kidney
Authors: Fujiwara Kunio , Yamamoto Yutaro , Saita Tetsuya , Matsufuji Senya
Published: June 2020

Among any drugs, no comparative pharmacological study on how prodrug and its active metabolite behave in animal bodies is available. Immunohistochemistry (IHCs) using newly prepared two monoclonal antibodies, AOS‐96 and AOC‐160, monospecific for oseltamivir (OS) and its metabolite oseltamivir carboxylate (OC) were developed, simultaneously detecting the uptake or excretion of OS and OC in the intestine, liver, and kidney of rats to which OS was orally administered. In the intestine, IHC for OS revealed OS highly distributed to the absorptive epithelia with heavily stained cytoplasmic small granules (CSGs). IHC for OC showed that OC also distributed highly in the epithelia, but without CSGs, suggesting that OS was partly converted to OC in the cells. In the liver, OS distributed in the hepatocytes and on their bile capillaries, as well as on the lumina from the bile capillaries to the interlobular bile ducts. OC distributed in the whole cell of the hepatocytes, but without CSGs nor on any lumina through the interlobular bile ducts. In the kidney, a few levels of OS distributed in the cytoplasm of almost all the renal tubule cells, but they contained numerous CSGs. In contrast, OC distributed highly in the proximal tubules, but very slightly in the lower renal tubules of the nephrons. Thus, it was concluded that the two drugs behave in completely different ways in rat bodies. This paper also discusses a possibility of the correlation of OS or OC levels in tissue cells with their known transporters.
Relationship between anticholinergic burden and mortality in the elderly
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: June 2020

Impairment of cognitive function in elderly patients poses a major concern, with cholinergic deficits that accompany the normal aging process thought to contribute to cognitive decline. Central muscarinic receptors, which mediate cognitive effects such as attention, learning, and short‐term memory, can also be blocked by anticholinergic drugs or drugs with significant anticholinergic effects. This pharmacologic antagonism explains the increased sensitivity of elderly patients to these agents.
Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry for the analysis of molecular composition and batch‐to‐batch consistency of plant‐derived polyphenolic ligands developed for biomedical application
Authors: Zherebker Alexander Ya. , Rukhovich Gleb D. , Kharybin Oleg N. , Fedoros Elena I. , Perminova Irina V. , Nikolaev Evgeny N.
Published: June 2020

Rationale

Complex plant‐derived polyphenols are promising for biomedical application. Their high complexity prevents the use of conventional pharmacopoeia techniques to perform quality control. The goal of this study was to apply ultra‐high‐resolution mass spectrometry to evaluate the batch‐to‐batch consistency of the molecular composition of a polyphenolic ligand using appropriate statistical metrics.

Methods

Polyphenols were obtained by hydrolyzed‐lignin oxidation. Manufacturing was performed under a range of reaction conditions: heating cycles, oxygen flows, purification. Direct‐injection Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (DI FTICR‐MS) was applied to analyze reaction products. For pairwise comparison Jaccard and Tanimoto similarities calculations were proposed. In addition, principal component analysis (PCA) was applied for sample grouping based on the molecular class contributions.

Results

FTICR‐MS analysis revealed moderate Jaccard similarity of products synthesized under the same conditions, which shared about 50% of the formulae calculated in each sample. The intensity‐based Tanimoto index indicated high similarity of major components distribution of samples synthesized under standard conditions, while products obtained with variations in synthetic conditions were significantly different. PCA of molecular class contributions showed similar grouping with a high cumulative score.

Conclusions

FTICR‐MS provides robust metrics for the examination of batch‐to‐batch consistency of synthetic polyphenol materials. This approach can be proposed for the analysis of reference samples and for development of complementary methods for quality control of medicinal agents based on various biologically active matrices.
Legume silvopastoral systems enhance soil organic matter quality in a subhumid tropical environment
Authors: Lira Junior Mario Andrade , Fracetto Felipe José Cury , Ferreira Juscélia da Silva , Silva Mariana Brito , Fracetto Giselle Gomes Monteiro
Published: June 2020

The silvopastoral system avoids the degradation of tropical grasslands by providing essential nutrients to the soil while improving livestock diet and farmer's income by increasing the marketable wood supply. We hypothesize that intercropping shrub‐tree legumes into signalgrass increases microbial activity and soil organic matter (SOM) quality. We investigated silvopastoral system soils over 5 yr in a subhumid climate in northeastern Brazil to determine the total C and N contents and to estimate C‐microbial biomass and respiration, microbial and metabolic quotients, humic acid (HA), and fulvic acid (FA). The experimental design evaluated (a) signalgrass intercropped with gliricidia at 0, 4, and 8 m from the center of the double legume row; (b) signalgrass intercropped with sabia at 0, 4, and 8 m from the center of the double legume row; and (c) single signalgrass. Samples were obtained after 2, 3, 4, and 5 yr from silvopastoral system implementation. The shrub‐tree legumes soils had total C (39 g kg−1) and total N (3.8 g kg−1) contents significantly higher (30 and 72%, respectively) than single signalgrass soil only on the fifth year after establishment. Microbial biomass C at 0 and 4 m from the legume's rows was 700 mg kg−1, which was 75% higher than single signalgrass soils. There was strong microbial respiration (∼50 mg C‐CO2 kg−1 d−1) in legumes soils, but the metabolic quotient did not indicate disturbance in microbial activity. The microbial quotients were significantly higher in shrub‐tree legumes soil, and the HA/FA ratio was nearly 1, demonstrating greater efficiency in SOM decomposition by microbial activity. Overall, 5 yr after establishment, the silvopastoral system has improved SOM quality and contributed to grassland sustainability.
Randomization‐based interval estimation in randomized clinical trials
Authors: Wang Yanying , Rosenberger William F.
Published: June 2020

Randomization‐based interval estimation takes into account the particular randomization procedure in the analysis and preserves the confidence level even in the presence of heterogeneity. It is distinguished from population‐based confidence intervals with respect to three aspects: definition, computation, and interpretation. The article contributes to the discussion of how to construct a confidence interval for a treatment difference from randomization tests when analyzing data from randomized clinical trials. The discussion covers (i) the definition of a confidence interval for a treatment difference in randomization‐based inference, (ii) computational algorithms for efficiently approximating the endpoints of an interval, and (iii) evaluation of statistical properties (ie, coverage probability and interval length) of randomization‐based and population‐based confidence intervals under a selected set of randomization procedures when assuming heterogeneity in patient outcomes. The method is illustrated with a case study.
New M5P model tree‐based control for doubly fed induction generator in wind energy conversion system
Authors: Ali Mounira , Talha Abdelaziz , Berkouk El madjid
Published: June 2020

This paper presents a new algorithm based on the combination of fuzzy logic control with M5 decision tree algorithm for doubly fed induction generator active and reactive power control. The M5 model tree is a machine learning algorithm that uses the extracted dataset from fuzzy logic for the aim of control performance enhancement. Because the fuzzy logic provides high design and implementation complexity, the new control approach is proposed to reduce its complexity and to achieve fast dynamic control by translating the fuzzy logic algorithm into simple if‐then instructions using M5 model tree. The obtained model shows good agreement with fuzzy logic in rotor side control. The effectiveness of the proposed control approach is investigated through Matlab/Simulink software. Furthermore, a cosimulated through processor in the loop testing is performed as an experimental verification using a low‐cost STM32F407 discovery board.
Safe Use of Butorphanol–Azaperone–Medetomidine to Immobilize Free‐Ranging White‐tailed Deer
Authors: McDermott Joseph R. , Leuenberger Wendy , Haymes Caleb A. , Clevinger Garrett B. , Trudeau Jonathan K. , Carter Tim C. , Hast John T. , Jenkins Gabriel S. W. , Bowling Will E. , Cox John J.
Published: June 2020

Butorphanol–Azaperone–Medetomidine (BAM) is a relatively new drug mixture compounded for the past decade to immobilize mammals, particularly ungulates. Despite its increased use in recent years, scant research has quantified the physiologic responses of immobilized animals or assessed its relative efficacy using different trapping methods. We tested the safety and efficacy of BAM for use in the immobilization of 198 free‐ranging white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) captured using drop‐nets, Clover traps, and gun‐propelled darts from 1 January 2014 to 28 July 2016 in Kentucky and Indiana, USA. Use of BAM produced a safe and satisfactory plane of immobilization that rarely required treatment of side effects. First signs of induction were observed on average at 4.4 ± 0.2 (standard error) minutes post–intramuscular administration, and deer reached lateral recumbency at 8.6 ± 0.4 minutes. Times to first signs of induction and the induction period were longer for adults than for juveniles, while times to the first sign of reversal, lifting head, and standing were longer for juveniles than adults. Although physiologic responses of deer during induction were within published norms, respiration rates, body temperature, heart rates, and oxygen saturation typically declined throughout the immobilization period. Our BAM dose did not affect time to recovery or heart rate. Regardless of trapping method, on average, heart rate was 61.2 ± 0.7 beats/minute, respiratory rate was 29.1 ± 0.5 breaths/minute, temperature was 38.93° ± 0.04° C, and oxygen saturation was 85.0% ± 0.3%. Deer showed first signs of reversal at 4.3 ± 0.3 minutes after administration of the reversal agent intramuscularly or half‐intramuscularly and half‐intravenously and were fully recovered after 6.3 ± 0.4 minutes. In summary, we found that BAM was an efficacious and safe drug to use on white‐tailed deer captured by a variety of trapping methods. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
SIMPLE BOUNDED WEIGHT MODULES OF $$ \mathfrak{sl}\left(\infty \right),\kern0.5em \mathfrak{o}\left(\infty \right),\kern0.5em \mathfrak{sp}\left(\infty \right) $$
Authors: GRANTCHAROV DIMITAR , PENKOV IVAN
Published: June 2020

We classify the simple bounded weight modules of the Lie algebras$$ \mathfrak{sl}\left(\infty \right),\kern0.5em \mathfrak{o}\left(\infty \right) $$sl∞,o∞and$$ \mathfrak{sp}\left(\infty \right) $$sp∞, and compute their annihilators in$$ U\left(\mathfrak{sl}\left(\infty \right)\right),\kern0.5em U\left(\mathfrak{o}\left(\infty \right)\right),\kern0.5em U\left(\mathfrak{sp}\left(\infty \right)\right) $$Usl∞,Uo∞,Usp∞, respectively.
Ursachen und Auswirkungen von Gewalt in der Notfallmedizin
Authors: Lindner T. , Weissenberger G. , Hottenbacher L. , Möckel M.
Published: June 2020

Mitarbeiter*innen in der präklinischen und klinischen Notfallmedizin sind regelmäßig mit gewalttätigem Verhalten konfrontiert. Auch wenn Definitionen und Studiendesigns sehr heterogen sind, handelt es sich um ein relativ gut im Ausmaß beschriebenes internationales Problem. Viele Mitarbeiter*innen akzeptieren gemachte Gewalterlebnisse, welche überwiegend verbaler Natur sind, als „Teil des Jobs“, obwohl sich diese gravierend auf ihre Arbeit und ihr Leben auswirken können. Der intoxikierte oder psychiatrisch erkrankte männliche Patient steht hierbei ursächlich im Vordergrund. Leider stellt das in der Notfallmedizin tätige Personal durch Unerfahrenheit im Erkennen und in der Interpretation konfrontativer Situationen sowie einen Mangel an kommunikativen Fähigkeiten oft unwissentlich einen Teil der Eskalationsspirale dar.
Control of the polymyxin analog ratio by domain swapping in the nonribosomal peptide synthetase of Paenibacillus polymyxa
Authors: Yuan Ye , Xu Qiu-Man , Yu Si-Cen , Sun Hui-Zhong , Cheng Jing-Sheng , Yuan Ying-Jin
Published: June 2020

Polymyxins are used as the last-line therapy against multidrug-resistant bacteria. However, their further clinical development needs to solve problems related to the presence of heterogeneous analogs, but there is still no platform or methods that can regulate the biosynthesis of polymyxin analogs. In this study, we present an approach to swap domains in the polymyxin gene cluster to regulate the production of different analogs. Following adenylation domain swapping, the proportion of polymyxin B1 increased from 41.36 to 52.90%, while that of B1-1 decreased from 18.25 to 3.09%. The ratio of polymyxin B1 and B3 following starter condensation domain swapping changed from 41.36 and 16.99 to 55.03 and 6.39%, respectively. The two domain-swapping strains produced 62.96% of polymyxin B1, 6.70% of B3 and 3.32% of B1-1. This study also revealed the presence of overflow fluxes between acetoin, 2,3-butanediol and polymyxin. To our best knowledge, this is the first report of engineering the polymyxin synthetase gene cluster in situ to regulate the relative proportions of polymyxin analogs. This research paves a way for regulating lipopeptide analogs and will facilitate the development of novel lipopeptide derivatives.