bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A CRITICAL REVIEW ON CONTRIBUTIONS OF LAGHUTRAYIS TO KAUMARABHRITYA AND ITS RELEVANCE IN CURRENT SCENARIO
Authors: GP Mangala Jyothsna
Published: July 2024

Kaumarabhritya is one among the Ashtangas (eight branches) of Ayurveda. It deals with the maintenance of Health of the Bala (child), purification of Dushta Stanya (vitiated breastmilk) of Dhatri (mother/wetnurse) and alleviation of Graha roga. All the samhithas of ayurveda have given importance for Bala roga (pediatrics) and have mentioned references regarding diseases of bala and their treatment. Though all the brihatrayis (Charaka samhitha, Sushrutha Samhitha and Ashtanga hridaya) have emphasized on this aspect, there are some of the concepts like Aushadhi matra (drug dosages), few diseases which occur specifically in children like Kukunaka (eye diseases), Ahiputana (Napkin rashes), Ajagallika (skin disease specific children), Parigarbhika (Malnutrition), Tundi (throat infections) etc. are explained in laghutrayis (Madhava nidana, Bhavaprakasa Samhita, Sharangdhara Samhita). Acharya charaka mentions that all the diseases that occur in adult are also occurring even in children, but the specific treatment of those diseases are mentioned in laghutrayi like Bhavaprakasha. So, all the laghutrayis were thoroughly searched and references related to kaumarabhritya were collected and analyzed in the current article.
KESHAROGAS AND THEIR FORMULATIONS AS PER AYURVEDIC CLASSICS: A REVIEW
Authors: Devaraj Ajalamol , A Vijaya Lakshmi
Published: July 2024

Ayurveda is more than just a system of healing. It is an ancient medical science and art that promotes a healthy lifestyle and helps us to live longer. Adhering to improper Ahara (diet) and Vihara (day to day routines), living in a polluted environment and working in stressful conditions all speed up ageing. The first signs of ageing are observed on the hair. Hair that is beautiful, long and shining is a person’s strongest asset. They must be looked after and protected with extreme care. In Ayurveda hair is considered as a mala of Asthi dhatu (bone) by Acharya Charaka, but Sharangdhara considered it as an Upadhathu (tissue) of Majja. The ayurvedic concepts for hair diseases such as Khalithya (Hair loss), Palithya (Premature greying of hairs), Indralupta (Alopecia areata), Arumshika (Seborrheic dermatitis) and Darunaka (Dandruff) are documented in various classics along with various formulations and treatment methods. By addition of Panchakarma (five internal bio cleansing therapies) along with internal medicines and Rasayana medicines (Rejuvenation therapy) relief can be obtained on a large scale.
Monitoring and Evaluation Practices on the Implementation of Educational Projects among Non-governmental Organizations in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya
Authors: Brigid Byegon , Barasa Peter Wamalwa
Published: July 2024

A significant challenge facing NGO-funded educational projects in Kenya is the lack of access to quality educational resources and infrastructure. Despite efforts to provide education to needy populations, many schools in the lack basic facilities such as classrooms, textbooks, and teaching materials. This study examined how monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practices impact the effective execution of education projects by NGOs operating in Kakuma refugee camp. It aimed to achieve four main objectives related to M&E: assessing the influence of M&E planning, evaluating M&E technical expertise, understanding management participation's role, and exploring stakeholder involvement. Drawing insights from systems management theory, program theory, and stakeholder theory, the research employed a descriptive survey design focusing on nine NGOs under UNHCR supporting education initiatives in Kakuma refugee camp. Both closed and open-ended questionnaires were used, with a pilot study ensuring questionnaire validity. Data analysis involved employing SPSS version 22, with statistical techniques including frequency distribution tables and Cronbach’s alpha for reliability. The study highlighted the crucial role of comprehensive M&E planning, technical expertise, management participation, and stakeholder engagement in project success. While positive perceptions and significant correlations were observed, improvements are necessary, particularly in enhancing community involvement and continuous improvement efforts. It's recommended to prioritize addressing these areas to optimize project outcomes within the camp.
Monochorionic Twin Pregnancy with Hydranencephaly and Co-Twin Death: A Case Report
Authors: Baidi H. , Sellouti M. , Ayad A. , Abilkassem R.
Published: July 2024

Background: Hydranencephaly is a rare congenital brain malformation with an incidence estimated to be between 1 in 10 000 and 1 in 5 000 pregnancies. It is characterized by the absence of development of the cerebral hemispheres, which are replaced by cerebrospinal fluid. The diagnosis of hydranencephaly can be made from 15 weeks of amenorrhea via obstetric ultrasound, with antenatal nuclear MRI being the definitive test to establish the diagnosis. The condition results from an anomaly in embryogenesis after the formation of the neural plate, though the exact pathophysiology of hydranencephaly is not yet clear. There is no definitive treatment for hydranencephaly; treatment is symptomatic and supportive. The prognosis for children with hydranencephaly is generally poor, with death usually occurring within the first year of life.
Methods: We conducted a thorough clinical examination and neurological assessment. Imaging studies (CT, MRI) confirmed the diagnosis of hydranencephaly. Data were collected from medical records and interviews with the patient’s parents.
Results: We report a case of a female newborn, from a monochorionic twin pregnancy with an in utero fetal death of her twin, admitted for the exploration of congenital hydrocephalus and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) detected on prenatal ultrasound. Clinically, she had microcephaly, and postnatal imaging revealed hydranencephaly.
Conclusion and Recommendations: Hydranencephaly is a rare and serious malformation of the nervous system with a guarded prognosis. The etiopathogenesis is still poorly understood. During the antenatal period, it is important to discuss the possibility of medical termination of pregnancy if feasible. Otherwise, cephalocentesis might be considered to avoid a cesarean section.  It is crucial to distinguish this condition, which has a poor prognosis, from extensive hydrocephalus, which has the potential for an improved prognosis with early shunting procedures.
Synergizing Random Forest and K Means Algorithms: An Analytical Study for Precise Crop Recommendation in Southeast Asia
Authors: Awon Olive , Goswami Mitul
Published: July 2024

Crop detection and classification are pivotal for optimizing agricultural practices and ensuring sustainable farming. This research presents a sophisticated approach to identifying optimal environments for various crops using advanced machine-learning techniques. The study employs a Random Forest classifier framework to categorize crops based on crucial environmental parameters, including soil nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium levels, temperature, humidity, soil pH, and rainfall. Additionally, a K-Means clustering algorithm groups crops with similar growth conditions. The model demonstrates superior performance compared to existing state-of-the-art approaches, achieving an accuracy of 0.97 and macro average scores of 0.94 for precision, 0.95 for recall, and 0.94 for F1-score. Findings underscore distinct environmental requirements for different crop groups, such as those thriving in arid conditions with minimal rainfall and nutrient content, versus those favoring humid conditions with abundant rainfall and nutrient richness. This study emphasizes the potential of machine learning models to enhance agricultural productivity by aligning crop selection with suitable environmental conditions, facilitating precise agricultural decision-making. The high accuracy and detailed classification underscore the model's efficacy in identifying optimal crop environments, which can significantly improve crop yield and resource management.
Effect of Different Growing Media on Establishment of Kagzi Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) in Prayagraj Agroclimatic Condition
Authors: Sonkar Gyanu , Topno Samir E.
Published: July 2024

The cultivation of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle), commonly known as Kagzi lime, is of significant economic importance in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. This citrus fruit is esteemed for its tart flavor, aromatic qualities, and versatility in culinary and medicinal applications. Maximizing the yield and quality of acid lime crops is a primary concern for growers, necessitating research into various factors influencing seed germination and plant vigor. Citrus aurantiifolia, commonly known as acid lime, is a small evergreen tree belonging to the Rutaceae family. An experiment was conducted in the department of horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Prayagraj during winter (2023-24). The experiment was arranged based on RBD having 7 treatment and 3 replications. The treatment T­­6 Soil + FYM + Vermicompost + vermiculite (1:2:2:1) was found significant compared to other treatment combinations, which recorded highest mean value of plant height (27.72 cm), number of leaves per plant (19.60), stem girth (7.25 cm), leaf area (4.95 cm2), chlorophyll content SPAD (51.03) were also obtained from treatment T­­6 Soil + FYM + Vermicompost + vermiculite (1:2:2:1) followed by T4 Soil + FYM + Vermicompost + vermiculite (1:1:2:1) and lowest was obtained from T0 (control).
Optimizing Siderophore Production in Bacillus subtilis to Enhance Seed Germination and Biocontrol Efficacy against Alternaria triticina and Bipolaris sorokiniana
Authors: Saini Neha , Bundela Vindhya , Singh Shivani , Sahgal Manvika , Singh Ajay Veer
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Bacillus subtilis (UP11) is a gram-positive, plant growth-promoting rhizosphere bacterium (PGPR) isolated from the wheat rhizosphere. This bacterium produces siderophore, are low-molecular-weight, high-affinity molecules produced under iron-limiting conditions. This study aimed to optimize culture conditions for siderophore production and investigate the antagonistic activity against foliar blight pathogens.
Work: The present study optimized the culture conditions for maximum siderophore production by evaluating various factors. The optimum pH for siderophore production was pH 7, yielding a maximum siderophore unit of 62.95%. Mannitol was identified as the best carbon source (59.14%), and ammonium nitrate as the best nitrogen source (63.04%). The presence of heavy metal Pb(NO₃)₂ in the succinate broth led to the highest yield (61.36%). The optimal iron concentration for siderophore production was determined to be 50 μM. The one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) approach was used to investigate these parameters and their effects.
Result: The optimized siderophore was partially purified using ethyl acetate extraction. This extract exhibited significant mycelial fungal inhibition, with 59.64% and 50.88% inhibition against Alternaria triticina and Bipolaris sorokiniana, respectively. The filtrate was also tested for its germination potential, demonstrating its dual role as a biocontrol and plant growth-promoter. The filtrate enhanced the percentage of germination, root and shoot length.
Conclusion: Our findings indicate that Bacillus subtilis (UP11) can produce substantial quantities of siderophores, which exhibit potent antagonistic activity against foliar blight pathogens and promote plant growth. This study holds promise for advancing the development of novel biological control agents, offering the dual benefits of disease control and plant growth promotion.

Siderophore producing bacteria (Bacillus subtilis) shows both antifungal and plant growth promoting activity.
Global warming releases microplastic legacy frozen in Arctic Sea ice
Authors: Obbard Rachel W. , Sadri Saeed , Wong Ying Qi , Khitun Alexandra A. , Baker Ian , Thompson Richard C.
Published: May 2014

When sea ice forms it scavenges and concentrates particulates from the water column, which then become trapped until the ice melts. In recent years, melting has led to record lows in Arctic Sea ice extent, the most recent in September 2012. Global climate models, such as that of Gregory et al. (2002), suggest that the decline in Arctic Sea ice volume (3.4% per decade) will actually exceed the decline in sea ice extent, something that Laxon et al. (2013) have shown supported by satellite data. The extent to which melting ice could release anthropogenic particulates back to the open ocean has not yet been examined. Here we show that Arctic Sea ice from remote locations contains concentrations of microplastics are several orders of magnitude greater than those that have been previously reported in highly contaminated surface waters, such as those of the Pacific Gyre. Our findings indicate that microplastics have accumulated far from population centers and that polar sea ice represents a major historic global sink of man‐made particulates. The potential for substantial quantities of legacy microplastic contamination to be released to the ocean as the ice melts therefore needs to be evaluated, as do the physical and toxicological effects of plastics on marine life.
CdS/ZnO Core/Shell Nanowire‐Built Films for Enhanced Photodetecting and Optoelectronic Gas‐Sensing Applications
Authors: Yang Zheng , Guo Linjuan , Zu Baiyi , Guo Yanan , Xu Tao , Dou Xincun
Published: May 2014

Uniform CdS/ZnO core/shell nanowires are hydrothermally synthesized using a two‐step process and assembled into a photodetector and a NO2 optoelectronic sensor for the first time. The corresponding photodetector exhibits a fast, reversible, and stable optoelectronic response with a rise time of ∼26 ms, a decay time of ∼2.1 ms and a stability of over 5 months. The remarkable photosensitivity and fast photoresponse are attributed to the formation of a heterojunction structure between CdS and ZnO, which greatly inhibits the recombination of photoinduced electrons and holes. The CdS/ZnO core/shell nanowires also show an excellent visible‐light‐activated gas sensing performance towards ppb‐level NO2 at room temperature. The responses range from 6.7% to 337% toward NO2 concentrations of 5 to 1000 ppb. It is found that the sensitivity of the NO2 sensor is dependent on the illuminated light intensity with a maximum value at 0.68 mW/cm2. The sensing mechanisms of the CdS/ZnO nanowires under visible‐light irradiation and the influence of light intensity are also discussed. The present CdS/ZnO core/shell nanowire not only benefits the fabrication of efficient photodetectors, but also makes the instant, optically controlled sensing of ppb‐level NO2 gas possible.
Chronic neutrophilic leukemia 2014: Update on diagnosis, molecular genetics, and management
Authors: Elliott Michelle A. , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: May 2014

Disease Overview: Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by sustained, mature neutrophilic leukocytosis, splenomegaly, and bone marrow granulocytic hyperplasia.

 Diagnosis: Key diagnostic criteria include leukocytosis of >25 × 109/l (of which >80% are neutrophils) with <10% and <1% circulating immature granulocytes and myeloblasts, respectively. There should be no dysplasia, monocytosis, molecular evidence of BCR‐ABL1, PDGFRA, PDGFRB, or FGRF1 rearrangements and no identifiable cause for physiologic neutrophilia or, if present, demonstration of myeloid clonality.

 Developments in Molecular Genetics: Recently, CNL has been shown to be specifically driven by somatic activating mutations of CSF3R, most commonly CSF3R T618I. As such, the diagnosis of CNL will no longer be one of exclusion only, and revision of the current WHO classification is anticipated to include the molecular criterion of mutated CSF3R. Am. J. Hematol. 89:651–658, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Attitudes of non‐African American focus group participants toward return of results from exome and whole genome sequencing
Authors: Yu Joon‐Ho , Crouch Julia , Jamal Seema M. , Bamshad Michael J. , Tabor Holly K.
Published: May 2014

Exome sequencing and whole genome sequencing (ES/WGS) present individuals with the opportunity to benefit from a broad scope of genetic results of clinical and personal utility. Yet, it is unclear which genetic results people want to receive (i.e., what type of genetic information they want to learn about themselves) or conversely not receive, and how they want to receive or manage results over time. Very little is known about whether and how attitudes toward receiving individual results from ES/WGS vary among racial/ethnic populations. We conducted 13 focus groups with a racially and ethnically diverse parent population (n = 76) to investigate attitudes toward return of individual results from WGS. We report on our findings for non‐African American (non‐AA) participants. Non‐AA participants were primarily interested in genetic results on which they could act or “do something about.” They defined “actionability” broadly to include individual medical treatment and disease prevention. The ability to plan for the future was both a motivation for and an expected benefit of receiving results. Their concerns focused on the meaning of results, specifically the potential inaccuracy and uncertainty of results. Non‐AA participants expected healthcare providers to be involved in results management by helping them interpret results in the context of their own health and by providing counseling support. We compare and contrast these themes with those we previously reported from our analysis of African American (AA) perspectives to highlight the importance of varying preferences for results, characterize the central role of temporal orientation in framing expectations about the possibility of receiving ES/WGS results, and identify potential avenues by which genomic healthcare disparities may be inadvertently perpetuated. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phenotypic similarities and differences in patients with a p.Met112Ile mutation in SOX10
Authors: Pingault Veronique , Pierre‐Louis Laurence , Chaoui Asma , Verloes Alain , Sarrazin Elisabeth , Brandberg Goran , Bondurand Nadege , Uldall Peter , Manouvrier‐Hanu Sylvie
Published: May 2014

Waardenburg syndrome (WS) is characterized by an association of pigmentation abnormalities and sensorineural hearing loss. Four types, defined on clinical grounds, have been delineated, but this phenotypic classification correlates imperfectly with known molecular anomalies. SOX10 mutations have been found in patients with type II and type IV WS (i.e., with Hirschsprung disease), more complex syndromes, and partial forms of the disease. The phenotype induced by SOX10 mutations is highly variable and, except for the neurological forms of the disease, no genotype–phenotype correlation has been characterized to date. There is no mutation hotspot in SOX10 and most cases are sporadic, making it particularly difficult to correlate the phenotypic and genetic variability. This study reports on three independent families with SOX10 mutations predicted to result in the same missense mutation at the protein level (p.Met112Ile), offering a rare opportunity to improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying phenotypic variability. The pigmentation defects of these patients are very similar, and the neurological symptoms showed a somewhat similar evolution over time, indicating a potential partial genotype–phenotype correlation. However, variability in gastrointestinal symptoms suggests that other genetic factors contribute to the expression of these phenotypes. No correlation between the rs2435357 polymorphism of RET and the expression of Hirschsprung disease was found. In addition, one of the patients has esophageal achalasia, which has rarely been described in WS. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conservative versus invasive treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chew Rusheng , Gerhardy Benjamin , Simpson Graham
Published: May 2014

Aim

The best management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax is unclear. Conservative treatment has been proposed, but no studies comparing conservative with invasive management have been carried out where pneumothorax size has been numerically quantified. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of conservative management for primary spontaneous pneumothoraces of any size.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of adult patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax treated at an Australian tertiary hospital from 2006–2011, carried out by case‐note and chest radiograph review. Patient demographics, smoking status, and outcome data were collected. Pneumothorax size was calculated using the Collins method, based on the sum of interpleural distances.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐seven episodes from 116 patients were identified. Males (86) comprised 75% of patients, and the median age at presentation was 37 years. Eighty‐two percent of cases (106) were ever‐smokers. Of the episodes in which pre‐treatment radiographs were available, 53 were treated conservatively and 58 invasively with tube thoracostomy, and all were clinically stable. When cases were stratified by pneumothorax size, age, sex, ethnicity, and smoking status had no effect on outcome. Compared to invasive treatment, conservative management resulted in no complications, an equal recurrence rate, and a significantly shorter length of stay.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that it may be feasible to adopt a conservative approach as the first‐line treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax in clinically stable patients. However, given the limitations of this study, a large randomised controlled trial is required to conclusively prove this assertion.
Importance of smoking and the occurrence of acute poisoning due to waterproof spray
Authors: Kondo Akihiko , Yanagawa Youichi , Omori Kazuhiko , Ohsaka Hiromichi , Ishikawa Kouhei , Oode Yasumasa , Nomura Tomohisa , Sugita Manabu , Okamoto Ken
Published: May 2014

A search of the database Ichushi (Japana Centra Revuo Medicana), which collects summaries of Japanese medical articles, was undertaken to identify articles published between 1983 and 2013, using the key word “waterproof”. There was one original article and 19 case reports describing acute poisoning due to inhalation of waterproof spray gas, and providing information about the patient's smoking habit. Twenty‐three of the 25 cases (92% of male patients, 71% of female patients) had a smoking habit. The one female case who did not have a smoking habit was in an environment exposed to secondhand smoke, because her husband had smoking habit. All cases had respiratory symptoms, and 24 cases had lung edema confirmed by computed tomography. There were no fatal cases among these patients. The one original article reported that 93% of males and 49% of females among a total of 104 cases with acute poisoning due to inhalation of waterproof spray gas had a smoking habit. Accordingly, people with a smoking habit tend to be vulnerable to exposure to waterproof spray gas.
Nickel‐Catalyzed α‐Arylation of Ketones with Phenol Derivatives
Authors: Takise Ryosuke , Muto Kei , Yamaguchi Junichiro , Itami Kenichiro
Published: May 2014

The nickel‐catalyzed α‐arylation of ketones with readily available phenol derivatives (esters and carbamates) provides access to useful α‐arylketones. For this transformation, 3,4‐bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)thiophene (dcypt) was identified as a new, enabling, air‐stable ligand for this transformation. The intermediate of an assumed CO oxidative addition was isolated and characterized by X‐ray crystal‐structure analysis.
Carbon Nanotubes Decorated with CoP Nanocrystals: A Highly Active Non‐Noble‐Metal Nanohybrid Electrocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Liu Qian , Tian Jingqi , Cui Wei , Jiang Ping , Cheng Ningyan , Asiri Abdullah M. , Sun Xuping
Published: May 2014

The development of effective and inexpensive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts for future renewable energy systems is highly desired. The strongly acidic conditions in proton exchange membranes create a need for acid‐stable HER catalysts. A nanohybrid that consists of carbon nanotubes decorated with CoP nanocrystals (CoP/CNT) was prepared by the low‐temperature phosphidation of a Co3O4/CNT precursor. As a novel non‐noble‐metal HER catalyst operating in acidic electrolytes, the nanohybrid exhibits an onset overpotential of as low as 40 mV, a Tafel slope of 54 mV dec−1, an exchange current density of 0.13 mA cm−2, and a Faradaic efficiency of nearly 100 %. This catalyst maintains its catalytic activity for at least 18 hours and only requires overpotentials of 70 and 122 mV to attain current densities of 2 and 10 mA cm−2, respectively.
Heptagon‐Embedded Pentacene: Synthesis, Structures, and Thin‐Film Transistors of Dibenzo[d,d′]benzo[1,2‐a:4,5‐a′]dicycloheptenes
Authors: Yang Xuejin , Liu Danqing , Miao Qian
Published: May 2014

This study presents a new class of conjugated polycyclic molecules that contain seven‐membered rings, detailing their synthesis, crystal structures and semiconductor properties. These molecules have a nearly flat C6‐C7‐C6‐C7‐C6 polycyclic framework with a p‐quinodimethane core. With field‐effect mobilities of up to 0.76 cm2 V−1 s−1 as measured from solution‐processed thin‐film transistors, these molecules are alternatives to the well‐studied pentacene analogues for applications in organic electronic devices.
Selenium–Platinum Coordination Compounds as Novel Anticancer Drugs: Selectively Killing Cancer Cells via a Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)‐Mediated Apoptosis Route
Authors: Zeng Lingwu , Li Yang , Li Tianyu , Cao Wei , Yi Yu , Geng Weijia , Sun Zhiwei , Xu Huaping
Published: May 2014

We report the preparation of selenium‐containing platinum‐based anticancer drug EG‐Se/Pt. EG‐Se/Pt was obtained from the coordination of selenium‐containing molecules (EG‐Se) with cisplatin (CDDP). The structure of EG‐Se/Pt was characterized by 1H and 77Se NMR spectroscopy, XPS, ESI‐MS, and MALDI‐TOF. In aqueous solution, EG‐Se/Pt self‐assembles to form spherical aggregates. EG‐Se/Pt shows enhanced stability against dilution and high salt concentration compared with EG‐Se. EG‐Se/Pt induces cell apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to high selectivity between cancer cells and normal cells in cytotoxicity assays. More importantly, EG‐Se/Pt effectively inhibits tumor growth in vivo in tumor‐bearing mice. It is anticipated that tuning the ROS level through the assembly of selenium‐containing molecules can be a general method to realize anticancer selectivity.
Suppression of stromal interaction molecule 1 inhibits SMMC7721 hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest
Authors: Wu Zhengshan , Qing Jiangjie , Xia Yongxiang , Wang Ke , Zhang Feng
Published: May 2014

Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), an endoplasmic reticulum luminal Ca2+ sensor, activates Ca2+‐release‐activated Ca2+ channels and migrates from the Ca2+ store to the plasma membrane. Recently, STIM1 was shown be critical for the progression of several cancers, including breast cancer and cervical cancer. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma has remained unknown. The current study was aimed to evaluate the effect of STIM1 on the growth of hepatocellular cancer. Lentivirus‐mediated short hairpin RNA targeting STIM1 was transduced into SMMC7721 cells to knock down STIM1 expression. Knockdown of STIM1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and colony‐forming ability and arrested the cell cycle at the G0/G1 phase. Moreover, the DNA synthesis progression was also decreased. Furthermore, lentiviral vector‐mediated overexpression of STIM1 promoted the proliferation of SMMC7721 cells. Our findings suggest that STIM1 may play an important role in the development of hepatocellular cancer and may be a potential target for therapy.
Genetic interaction analysis of point mutations enables interrogation of gene function at a residue‐level resolution
Authors: Braberg Hannes , Moehle Erica A. , Shales Michael , Guthrie Christine , Krogan Nevan J.
Published: May 2014

We have achieved a residue‐level resolution of genetic interaction mapping – a technique that measures how the function of one gene is affected by the alteration of a second gene – by analyzing point mutations. Here, we describe how to interpret point mutant genetic interactions, and outline key applications for the approach, including interrogation of protein interaction interfaces and active sites, and examination of post‐translational modifications. Genetic interaction analysis has proven effective for characterizing cellular processes; however, to date, systematic high‐throughput genetic interaction screens have relied on gene deletions or knockdowns, which limits the resolution of gene function analysis and poses problems for multifunctional genes. Our point mutant approach addresses these issues, and further provides a tool for in vivo structure‐function analysis that complements traditional biophysical methods. We also discuss the potential for genetic interaction mapping of point mutations in human cells and its application to personalized medicine.
Challenges in industrial fermentation technology research
Authors: Formenti Luca Riccardo , Nørregaard Anders , Bolic Andrijana , Hernandez Daniela Quintanilla , Hagemann Timo , Heins Anna‐Lena , Larsson Hilde , Mears Lisa , Mauricio‐Iglesias Miguel , Krühne Ulrich , Gernaey Krist V.
Published: May 2014

Industrial fermentation processes are increasingly popular, and are considered an important technological asset for reducing our dependence on chemicals and products produced from fossil fuels. However, despite their increasing popularity, fermentation processes have not yet reached the same maturity as traditional chemical processes, particularly when it comes to using engineering tools such as mathematical models and optimization techniques. This perspective starts with a brief overview of these engineering tools. However, the main focus is on a description of some of the most important engineering challenges: scaling up and scaling down fermentation processes, the influence of morphology on broth rheology and mass transfer, and establishing novel sensors to measure and control insightful process parameters. The greatest emphasis is on the challenges posed by filamentous fungi, because of their wide applications as cell factories and therefore their relevance in a White Biotechnology context. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is introduced as a promising tool that can be used to support the scaling up and scaling down of bioreactors, and for studying mixing and the potential occurrence of gradients in a tank.
Morphometry of the fibular collateral ligament: Anatomic study with comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Chappell Todd M. , Panchani Prakash N. , Moore Garrett D. , Tubbs R. Shane , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Loukas Marios , Kozlowski Piotr B. , Khan Khurram H. , DiLandro Anthony C. , D'Antoni Anthony V.
Published: May 2014

There is no consensus in the literature related to the morphology, bony attachments, and variations of the fibular collateral ligament (FCL) of the knee. Our purpose was to investigate FCL morphology and to review reports in the literature regarding this structure. Seventy knees from formalin‐fixed, adult cadavers were dissected and a digital caliper was used to measure FCL length, width, distance from proximal attachment to articular surface (PA→AS), and distance from distal attachment to articular surface (DA→AS). The mean (SE) length and width of all FCLs was 48.3 (1.1) mm and 4 (0.16) mm, respectively. The mean (SE) PA→AS and DA→AS of all FCLs was 22 (0.8) mm and 24.8 (1) mm, respectively. We found a direct relationship between the PA→AS and DA→AS distances (Spearman rho = 0.527, P = 0.002) and this association was independent of age and sex. Two FCL variations were found: a bifurcate ligament with two distal bands and a trifurcate ligament with three distal bands, all of which attached to the fibular head. Our literature review revealed that only 2/10 cadaveric FCL morphology studies reported variations similar to the current study. Further, there was variability in the reported location of the FCL proximal attachment. When combining our data with these studies, 105/219 FCLs directly attached to the apex of the lateral epicondyle (LE), 10/219 to a fovea posterior to the LE, and 104/219 posterior and proximal to the LE. These data may have implications related to FCL injury and repair. Clin. Anat. 27:1089–1096, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Generative topographic mapping of binding pocket of β2 receptor and three‐way partial least squares modeling of inhibitory activities
Authors: Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Funatsu Kimito
Published: May 2014

The visualization and characterization of protein pockets is the starting point for many structure‐based drug design projects. The size and shape of protein pockets dictate 3D geometry of ligands that can strongly inhibit the following biological events. Thus, a minimal requirement for inhibition is that a molecule sterically binds the active site with some allowance for induced fit. Methods for direct display of active sites in a protein have become prevalent in recent years.

In this study, a new mapping method, generative topographic mapping, is investigated to describe the 3D surface of protein pocket. The β2 receptor protein is used as a benchmark. By mapping the molecular surface points and assigning the associated molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) values, the original 3D structure of the active site is well reproduced by the 2D latent map in generative topographic mapping. The distributions of MEP values of two 2D latent maps derived from the inhibitor and the β2 receptor protein are well complemented. Using three‐way partial least squares modeling, a predictive model linking the inhibitory activity and their MEP values can be constructed, which was not feasible in the previous spherical self‐organizing map studies. The resulting regression coefficient matrix of the three‐way partial least squares model has many insights for understanding the structural requirements for β2 inhibitory activity. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A short history of chemometrics: a personal view
Authors: Brereton Richard G.
Published: May 2014

This article traces chemometrics back to its origins in scientific computing in the 1960s. Its development is compared in other computational disciplines such as bioinformatics. The change in geographical origins of papers published in the core chemometrics literature is discussed. It is concluded that the level of core activities in this area has hardly changed over several decades, whilst there has been a significant expansion in non‐expert users of packages over this period. It is estimated that around 2% of people encountering chemometrics in their research can be considered real experts. The problems of non‐experts using chemometrics methods with limited knowledge of the statistical fundamentals are explored. The contrasting development of chemometrics compared with, for example, computational chemistry and bioinformatics, is interpreted in terms of the changing financial pressures on research over its key developmental phase, as illustrated by the change in academic finance in the UK over the past 50 years. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of Effects of Berberine on the Photosynthesis of Microcystis aeruginosa at Gene Transcriptional Level
Authors: Bi Xiangdong , Zhang Shulin , Dai Wei , Xing Kezhi , Pang Yue , Zhang Dajuan
Published: May 2014

Microcystis aeruginosa has great competition advantages to survive, grow, and dominate phytoplankton communities for its high photosynthetic activity in unsuitable conditions. Berberine was the allelochemical capable of inhibiting M. aeruginosa growth. To better understand the allelopathic mechanism involved, RNA‐sequencing technology was used to investigate the berberine‐induced changes in photosynthesis gene expression of M. aeruginosa. Using the next‐generation sequencing platform Illumina/Solexa, a total of 13 099 868 and 13 870 448 90‐bp pair‐end reads for “no berberine” and “berberine” libraries were obtained, respectively. Among these genes, 10 324 794 (no berberine) and 8 944 254 (berberine) reads mapped multiply in the genome, while 9 988 318 (no berberine) and 8 316 668 (berberine) mapped to unique targets, respectively. It was indicated that berberine significantly repressed the expression of 869 genes and induced the expression of 1419 genes. Those berberine‐affected genes belonged to different functional categories, especially enriched in various photosynthesis‐relevant metabolic pathways based on the analysis of gene ontology, clusters of orthologous group terms, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. The results suggested that berberine‐induced disturbance in the algal photosynthesis process via repressing the expression of key photosynthesis genes, such as psbD, psaA, psaB, might be one of the main mechanisms involved in inhibitory allelopathic activity of berberine.
Treatment of advanced thyroid cancer with axitinib: Phase 2 study with pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic and quality‐of‐life assessments
Authors: Locati Laura D. , Licitra Lisa , Agate Laura , Ou Sai‐Hong I. , Boucher Andree , Jarzab Barbara , Qin Shukui , Kane Madeleine A. , Wirth Lori J. , Chen Connie , Kim Sinil , Ingrosso Antonella , Pithavala Yazdi K. , Bycott Paul , Cohen Ezra E. W.
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

In a previous phase 2 trial, axitinib was active and well tolerated in patients with advanced thyroid cancer. In this second phase 2 trial, the efficacy and safety of axitinib were evaluated further in this population, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships and patient‐reported outcomes were assessed.

METHODS

Patients (N = 52) with metastatic or unresectable, locally advanced medullary or differentiated thyroid cancer that was refractory or not amenable to iodine‐131 received a starting dose of axitinib 5 mg twice daily. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), safety, pharmacokinetic parameters, and patient‐reported outcomes assessed with the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory questionnaire.

RESULTS

The overall ORR was 35% (18 partial responses), and 18 patients had stable disease for ≥16 weeks. The median PFS was 16.1 months, and the median OS was 27.2 months. All‐causality, grade ≥3 adverse events (>5%) were fatigue, dyspnea, diarrhea, decreased weight, pain in extremity, hypertension, decreased appetite, palmar‐plantar erythrodysesthesia, hypocalcemia, and myalgia. Patients who had greater axitinib exposure had a longer median PFS. Quality of life was maintained during treatment with axitinib, and no significant deterioration in symptoms or interference in daily life caused by symptoms, assessed on MD Anderson Symptom Inventory subscales, were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Axitinib has activity and a manageable safety profile while maintaining quality of life, and it represents an additional treatment option for patients with advanced thyroid cancer. Cancer 2014;120:2694–2703. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Effect of Structural Characteristics of Binary Palladium–Cobalt Fuel Cell Catalysts on the Activity for Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Antolini Ermete
Published: May 2014

In view of possible use as cathode materials in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, the electrocatalytic activity of palladium–cobalt catalysts for oxygen reduction has been investigated in acid medium. In this minireview, the effect of structural characteristics, such as degree of alloying, particle size and palladium segregation on the alloy surface to form a core–shell system, on the electrocatalytic activity of palladium–cobalt catalysts for oxygen reduction is discussed.
Surfactant for Enhanced Rheological, Electrical, and Electrochemical Performance of Suspensions for Semisolid Redox Flow Batteries and Supercapacitors
Authors: Madec Lénaïc , Youssry Mohamed , Cerbelaud Manuella , Soudan Patrick , Guyomard Dominique , Lestriez Bernard
Published: May 2014

A suspension of Li4Ti5O12 and of Ketjen black in a solution of 1 M lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide in propylene carbonate is studied as the anolyte for semisolid redox flow batteries. The rheological behavior and electronic conductivity are studied both at rest and under shear flow. The electrochemical behavior is evaluated at rest as a function of the charge/discharge rates and of the thickness of the suspension in the electrochemical cell. The highly beneficial influence of the addition of a non‐ionic surfactant in the composition of the suspension is demonstrated. All practical properties are improved with respect to semisolid redox flow applications. The viscosity decreases, the electronic conductivity increases and is less affected by the shear flow, and the electrochemical performance is improved. Moreover, the suspension shows much better stability, so its performance is preserved over time.
Controlling the Surface Chemistry of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes for the Production of Highly Efficient and Stable Laccase‐Based Biocatalysts
Authors: Silva Cláudia G. , Tavares Ana P. M. , Dražić Goran , Silva Adrián M. T. , Loureiro José M. , Faria Joaquim L.
Published: May 2014

Laccase was immobilized over multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with diameters ranging from 10 to 100 nm and different surface chemical groups. Oxygen‐containing groups were introduced selectively or removed by liquid‐phase oxidation and thermal treatments. The effect of pH on the immobilization efficiency and catalytic activity of laccase has been evaluated. Pristine MWCNTs show excellent immobilization capacity (100 %) and high enzyme activity, but low thermal stability (at 50 °C) owing to weak interaction (mostly hydrophobic) between laccase and the support. Immobilization capacity and catalytic activity of laccase on the modified MWCNTs were related to the surface electric charge of both the support and the enzyme. MWCNTs oxidized with HNO3 and posteriorly heated at 400 °C, mostly presenting hydroxyl surface groups, provided the best compromise between laccase activity and thermal stability, which has been attributed to the formation of hydrogen bonds between the support and the enzyme.
The trajectory of IGF‐1 across age and duration of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Palta Mari , LeCaire Tamara J. , Sadek‐Badawi Mona , Herrera Victor M. , Danielson Kirstie K.
Published: May 2014

Background

Individuals with type 1 diabetes may have low IGF‐1, related to insulinopenia and insulin resistance. There are few longitudinal studies of IGF‐1 levels to establish its pattern in type 1 diabetes with duration and age, and to examine whether IGF‐1 tracks within individuals over time. We examine age and duration trends, and the relationship of IGF‐1 to gender, glycaemic control, insulin level and other factors.

Methods

Participants in the Wisconsin Diabetes Registry Study, an incident cohort study of type 1 diabetes diagnosed May 1987–April 1992, were followed for up to 18 years with IGF‐1 samples up to age 45 for women and age 37 for men.

Results

IGF‐1 is lower with type 1 diabetes than in normative samples. Although, the pattern across age resembles that in normative samples with a peak in adolescence and slow decline after age 20, the adolescent peak is delayed for women with type 1 diabetes. There was low to moderate tracking of IGF‐1 within an individual. Higher insulin dose was associated with higher IGF‐1 as was puberty, and female gender. Adjusted for these factors, IGF‐1 declined rapidly across early diabetes duration. Lower HbA1c was most strongly related to higher IGF‐1 at Tanner stages 1 and 2.

Conclusions

IGF‐1 is low in type 1 diabetes, with a delayed adolescent peak in women and is especially influenced by glycaemic control in early and pre‐adolescence. High variability within an individual is likely a challenge in investigating associations between IGF‐1 and long‐term outcomes, and may explain contradictory findings. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Construction of Hybrid Porous Materials from Cubic Octavinylsilsesquioxane through Friedel–Crafts Reaction Using Tetraphenylsilane as a Concentrative Crosslinker
Authors: Yang Wenyan , Wang Dengxu , Li Liguo , Liu Hongzhi
Published: May 2014

A series of novel hybrid porous polymers (HPPs), derived from cubic octavinylsilsesquioxane (OVS; [(C2H3SiO1.5)8]) and tetraphenylsilane (TPS), were successfully synthesized through Friedel–Crafts alkylation reaction. The porosities of the HPPs could be tuned by modulating the molar ratio of OVS and TPS. The HPPs showed high porosity, with Brunauer–Emmett–Teller specific surface areas of 518–989 m2 g–1, and total pore volumes of 0.35–0.76 cm3 g–1, as well as narrow pore‐size distributions. For gas sorption application, HPP‐5 possessed a hydrogen uptake of 0.80 wt.‐% at 760 Torr/77 K and a carbon dioxide uptake of 3.31 wt.‐% at 760 Torr/298 K.
The Photochemical and Thermal Decomposition of Azidoacetylene in the Gas Phase, Solid Matrix, and Solutions
Authors: Zeng Xiaoqing , Beckers Helmut , Seifert Jennifer , Banert Klaus
Published: May 2014

Decomposition of the extremely explosive and unstable parent compound of 1‐azidoalkynes, HCCN3 (azidoacetylene), was studied in the gas phase, solid argon matrix, and solutions. In the gas phase, this azide decomposes quickly at room temperature with a half‐life time (t1/2) of 20 min at an initial pressure (p0) of 0.8 mbar. The decay (p0 = 1.0 mbar) is significantly increased in an atmosphere of O2 with t1/2 of 3 min, in which HC(O)CN was identified as the trapping product of the cyanocarbene intermediate HCCN. Trapping products of this carbene by solvent molecules (CH2Cl2 and CHCl3) were also found during decomposition of the azide in solution, whereas the reaction with a solution of bromine to form dibromoacetonitrile is interpreted as taking place by nucleophilic attack of the alkyne itself. The intermediary formation of triplet HCCN by flash vacuum pyrolysis and photolysis (255 nm) of the azide in the gas phase and in solid argon matrices, respectively, was confirmed by IR spectroscopy and mutual photo‐interconversion of HCCN with isomeric cyclo‐C(H)CN (azirinylidene) and HCNC by selective irradiations at 16 K.