bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periradicular Cystic Enucleation and PRF Grafting Following Apicoectomy in Trichotillomania Patient- A Case Report
Authors: Kataria Vimanyu , Sodhi Surender , Dogra Shikha , Raju Vignesh Guptha
Published: February 2021

Diagnosis and treatment planning of untreated traumatised anterior teeth specially in children with psychiatric disorders or special health care needs is a challenge to paediatric dentist, that too in non-pharmacological means is a difficult task. Most of the time when these patients report with such complaint, it is already too late. This could be due to unintentional reasons like lack of parent awareness or patient’s response at the time of insult. All these factors bypass the time of conservative and minimal invasive treatment approaches. Ultimately, delayed treatment of trauma to anterior region exposes pulp and infection progress to periradicular region with cystic changes. Here, in this case report, the non-pharmacological management of periradicular cyst enucleation, followed by apicoectomy and Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) grafting was done in a 15-year-old female patient with obsessive compulsive disorder i.e., Trichotillomania (TTM) under local anaesthesia. Symptoms and intraoral swelling was resolved postoperatively in follow-up visits.
Efficiency of Corticision in Accelerating Leveling and Alignment of Crowded Lower Anterior Teeth in Young Adult Patients: A Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Sirri Mohamad Radwan , Burhan Ahmad S , Hajeer Mohammad Y , Nawaya Fehmieh R , Abdulhadi Abdulaziz
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The evaluation of flapless corticision in conjunction with the conventional treatment in the non-extraction decrowding of lower anterior teeth has not been performed yet in any randomised clinical trial, particularly in terms of treatment time and periodontal indices. Aim: The aim of the study was to compare the duration of leveling and alignment of mild and moderate crowding cases in the lower dental arch between the corticision-assisted fixed orthodontic treatment and the traditional method; and to compare the periodontal indexes between the two groups. Materials and Methods: A parallel-group Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial (RCT) was conducted on 60 patients (mean age 2 1.40±1.63 years). Patients were randomly assigned to either the corticision group or the control group (30 each). Immediately after fixed appliance bonding, three radiographic-guided incisions were performed on the labial surfaces of the alveolar bone between lower anterior teeth by reinforced scalpels and mallets in order to accelerate alignment for patients in the corticision group. Patients in the control group were treated with conventional orthodontics. The outcome measures were the overall time needed for leveling and alignment, periodontal parameters such as Plaque Index (PI), Probing Depth (PD), Gingival Index (GI), and the width of the attached gingiva. Results: The overall treatment time was significantly shorter in the corticision group than the control group. The average leveling and alignment period for the corticision group was 116.46±15.97 days, while it was 159.69±13.76 days in the control group. Comparing the groups, a significant reduction of about 27% was found in the leveling and alignment duration of the corticision group. There were no significant differences in the periodontal parameters (PI, PD, GI, the width of attached gingiva) at the end of leveling and alignment phase in both the groups. Conclusion: Corticision seems to be an effective method to accelerate leveling and alignment in cases of mild and moderate crowding. It did not cause negative effect on the periodontal tissues.
Serum Fluorescence of Advanced Glycation End Products: A Potential Screening Tool to Distinguish Between Diabetic Patients with and without Microvascular Complications
Authors: Ali Sadaf , Rao Nivedita L
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Enhanced formation and accumulation of Fluorescent Advanced Glycation End products (F-AGEs) in diabetes mellitus have been linked to increased risk of developing the associated vascular complications. Aim: To evaluate the potential of serum fluorescence levels of F-AGEs as screening tools to distinguish between type 2 diabetic patients with and without microvascular complications such as retinopathy, neuropathy. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2016 and June 2017, included 95 type 2 diabetic patients with more than 1 year of diabetes duration. Fasting blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin and total protein levels were estimated by automated methods. Serum F-AGEs were estimated by using a simple spectrofluorometric method. Microvascular complications due to diabetes mellitus were studied in each patient from medical records data on fundus examination for retinopathy and touch, vibration sensation detection for neuropathy. Diabetic patients were categorised into two groups as those without microvascular complications and those with microvascular complications-retinopathy and neuropathy. Statistical tests used for comparisons between groups were chi-square test for gender distribution, independent t-test for other parameters and Pearson’s correlations. The p-value <0.05 indicated significant difference between variables. Results: Mean age of the population was 55.1±5.3 years. Diabetic patients with microvascular complications (n=26) in the form of retinopathy, neuropathy had significantly higher levels of serum F-AGEs with mean 7.4±1.8 AU/g protein compared with diabetic patients without complications with mean value 1.5±0.7 AU/g protein (p<0.01). Conclusion: Two categories of serum fluorescent AGE values, without overlap, could be distinguished between diabetic patients with and without complications. Measurement of serum F-AGEs products has the potential to emerge as a simple, valuable screening tool to distinguish between diabetic patients with and without microvascular complications.
Evaluation of Relation between Bizygomatic Width and Mesiodistal Dimension of Maxillary Central Incisor in Saudi Population: An In-vivo Study
Authors: Shammas Mohammed , Bukhari Eyad Osama , Rummani Albatool Jaffar , Almasri Ahmed Ali , Bakhsh Deema Essam , Hafiz Leena Omar
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Selection of the maxillary anterior teeth is one of the most crucial steps in fabricating a removable prosthesis. To overcome this challenge, the relationship between facial measurements and natural teeth could be used as a guide in selecting the Maxillary Central Incisor (MCI) teeth. To improve aesthetics, various efforts have been made to associate the Mesiodistal Dimension (MD) of the MCI with various facial parameters. Aim: To determine the relationship between Bizygomatic Width (BZW) and the MD of the MCI in the Saudi population. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study selected two hundred dentulous subjects (100 males and 100 females) using a simple random sampling technique from December 2019 to March 2020. BZW was measured between the two most prominent points on the zygomatic bone, and the MD of the MCI was measured between the interproximal contact points. Both measurements were made with the help of a digital vernier caliper. Descriptive statistics and student’s t-test were used to compare all the measurements between males and females with a level of significance at 5% (0.05) and the power of the study of 95%. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) was used to find the interconnection between MD of MCI and BZW by linear correlation analysis. Results: The average values for BZW for males and females were found to be 123.56±3.74 mm and 117.33±3.21 mm, respectively. The average MD values of MCI for males and females were found to be 8.6±0.46 mm and 8.4±0.53 mm, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed in the mean values of the BZW (p-value<0.001) and MD of MCI (p-value 0.002) when a comparison was done among males and females. The average ratio of MD of MCI to BZW was found to be 0.07±0.004 for males, whereas it was 0.072±0.004 for females and was statistically significant (p-value 0.001). The ratio of MD of MCI to BZW was found to be 1:14 for males and females. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) was positive and ranged from 0.067 to 0.007. Conclusion: Males had greater values for BZW and MD of MCI than females. There was an inconsistency when Berry’s biometric ratio was applied and when compared with the actual MD of MCI measurement in the present study. The findings of this study showed that there was a weak positive correlation between the MD of MCI and the BZW.
Variation in Facial Index and Nasal Index in Western Maharashtrian Males- An Anthropometric Study
Authors: Nivale Laxmi Prashant , Gandotra Achleshwar , Karambalekar RR
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Facial anthropometry had proved its great importance in the field of facial reconstructive surgery as well as in the field of forensic science. Specific face types and nose types provides us important information about specific types of races. Aim: To study the morphometric variation in facial index and nasal index as well as different types of faces and types of noses in the Western Maharashtrian males. Materials and Methods: An observational study was carried out in the five cities- Sangli, Kolhapur, Islampur, Karad and Satara of Western Maharashtra, India. Total 535 male students of different colleges between the age group of 18-20 years were selected and measurements were taken with the help of Digital Vernier Calliper in the sitting position after due approval from Institutional Ethical Committees and informed consent. The methodology adopted for the measurements was taken from the guidelines given by Farkas LG in his book-“Anthropometric facial proportions in Medicine”. Results: The mean facial index of Western Maharashtrian males was 89.51 with standard deviation 4.26 and dominant face type was leptoprosopic which was 46.73% and rare type of face was hypereuriprosopic which was 0.19%. Mean nasal index of Western Maharashtrian males was 72.84 with standard deviation 6.86 and dominant nose type was mesorrhine which was 63.74%. Conclusion: Certain facial and nasal features are common in particular racial group. Its detection can be helpful in reconstructive facial surgeries.
Influence of Compounds Contents and Particle Size on Some Functional Properties of Moringa oleifera Leaves (Lam) Powders
Authors: Armel Assiéné Agamou Julien , Edith Fombang Nig , Moses Mbofung Carl
Published: February 2021

Objective: This study aims to determine the influence of the contents of compounds and particle size on the functional properties of leaves powders of M. oleifera.

Methodology: The leaves were collected from three farms in the localities of Mbouda and Maroua and processed in powders. The proximate composition, some functional properties such as particle size, true Water Absorption Capacity (WACt), apparent Water Absorption Capacity (WACa), Water Solubility Index (WSI), Oil Holding Capacity (OHC), and Bulk density were determined.

Results: The mean contents of young and mature leaves powders are 24.96 ± 0.29 and 23.13 ± 0.50 g/100 DM in total proteins; 34.26 ± 0.52 and 29.11 ± 1.44 g/100g DM in available carbohydrate, 8.34 ± 0.64 and 8.34 ± 0.68 g/100g DM in total lipids, 8.75 ± 0.74 and 9.08 ± 0.48 g/100g DM in total ash, 21.13 ± 1.34 and 27.14 ± 1.04 g/100g DM in total fibers, respectively. The particle size of powders is majority large. The fiber's contents significantly affect the increase of rehydration properties and the OHC, while the large particle size, the density. Values of WACt and WACa are 27.02 ± 0.20 and 32.88 ± 1.24 % in young leaves and 28.98 ± 0.15 and 35.88 ± 1.02 % in mature leaves, respectively. The WSI and OHC are 3.02 ± 0.06 and 257 ± 1% in young leaves and 3.5 ± 0.04 and 261 ± 2 % in mature leaves, respectively. The Bulk density is 0.42 ± 0.01 g/ml in young leaves and 0.39 ± 0.01 in mature leaves.

Conclusion: Functional properties of M. oleifera leave powders do not always depend on the contents of compounds and particle size distribution.
Effect of Roasted Soybean Flour Substitution on the Chemical and Sensory Properties of Maize Flour Snack (Aadun)
Authors: Amanyunose A. A. , Olosunde O. O. , Adedeji T. O. , Abiodun O. A.
Published: February 2021

Aims: To determine the effect of roasted soybean flour substitution on the chemical and sensory properties of maize flour snack (Aadun).

Study Design: Multiple comparison test was performed on the data obtained using Duncan test

Place and Duration of Study: Samples were prepared in Department of Food Science and Technology, Osun State Polytechnic, between August 2020 and November 2020.

Methodology: Composite flours were developed from roasted maize and soybean to produce snacks (Aadun). Proximate, mineral, amino acid profile and sensory properties of the samples were determined using standard procedure.

Results: The protein content of the sample ranged between 8.94–16.43% with sample with 40% soybeans having the highest value. The mineral content of the samples increased with increased addition of soybean. Total amino acid of the Aadun samples ranged between 64.81 and 83.42 g/100 g showing an increase as fortification with soybean flour increased. The sensory evaluation showed no significant differences (p>0.05) in the overall acceptability of all the snacks.

Conclusion: The chemical properties of Aadun increased with addition of soybean flour. Addition of 10 % soybeans to the maize snack did not have significant effect on the taste, texture and overall acceptability.
The Service Sector-Led Growth Relationship: The Case of Nigeria
Authors: Effiong Ubong Edem , Okon Joel Isaac
Published: February 2021

This paper examined the impact of the service sector on economic growth of Nigeria. The study covers the period 1981 to 2019 and data were obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria statistical bulletin. The Augmented Dickey-Fuller unit root, Granger Causality test, Vector Autoregressive (VAR) approach, Bounds test for cointegration, and vector error correction mechanism were utilized in analysing the data. Findings of the study revealed that a bidirectional causality exist between service sector and economic growth of Nigeria. Meanwhile, the VAR result presented an evidence of weak exogeneity of the service sector in predicting economic growth. However, both broad money supply and total government expenditure exerted a significant impact on economic growth. From the impulse response function, it was discovered that economic growth responded negatively to shocks in service sector output both in the short run and in the long run; while the variance decomposition indicated that gross domestic product (a proxy for economic growth) is strongly endogenous in predicting itself in the short run while such diminishes in the long run. The Bounds test for cointegration revealed evidence of long run equilibrium relationship and the error correction mechanism revealed that 88.30% of the short run disequilibrium in the gross domestic product are corrected annually. Meanwhile, it was discovered that professional, scientific and technical services is the major contributor to economic growth as captured by its short run and long run elasticity coefficients of 0.5936 and 0.9455 respectively. The paper recommended the need for stimulating industrialization as this is the major pathway through which the service sector can positively impact economic growth.
Analysis of Contingent Pay and Altruism to the Reward of Management Practices
Authors: Orajaka Ugochukwu Paul
Published: February 2021

The study expressed the effect of contingent pay and altruism to the reward of Management practices and its performance in some selected government organizations in south East Nigeria. The application of descriptive statistics, correlation tools and mean likert was employed to evaluate the significant relationship and coefficient of determination of the variables. However, the tools show that there is a strong positive relationship association between the contingent pay and altruism in government organizations. The analysis also shows that there is a strong positive significant relationship in the system. These results conclude that contingent pay and altruism has a strong positive effect to government organizational performance in the study areas selected.
Effect of Spirulina Flour on Changes of Color Intensity in Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) Strain Three Color
Authors: Lili Walim , Rizal Achmad , Herman Roffi Grandiosa , Ramadhan Rachmat Mahadika
Published: February 2021

Ornamental fish is a fishery commodity that has promising business opportunities. Ornamental fish will have a high selling value if they have bright and brilliant colors. The advantage of ornamental fish is in the intensity of the color on its body. This study aims to analyze the levels of Spirulina added in feed which can increase the color intensity of the Angelfish juvenille. The method used was an experimental method Completely Randomized Design, consisting of five treatments and four replications. The parameter observed was an increase in color on the head of the fish and analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis.The results showed that giving 3% spirulina flour in commercial feed could provide the best color improvement for angelfish with an increase in color value by 3, and if discontinued addition of spirulina flour can reduce the brightness level of the angelfish.
The Effect of Adding Citronella Oil (Cymbopogon nardus) on Edible Coating from Chitosan towards Organoleptic Characteristics of Pempek
Authors: Kamal Ratu Keyla , Rostini Iis , Syamsudin Mega Laksmini , Pratama Rusky Intan
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this research was to determine the best concentration of citronella oil on the edible coating from chitosan towards the organoleptic quality of pempek. This research used an experimental method consisting of 5 treatments: without edible coating (control one), addition of citronella oil with a concentration of 0%, 1.5%, 2.5%, and 3.5% using 20 panelists as replications. The parameters observed in this research were organoleptic characteristics (appearance, texture, aroma, taste, teeth cutting test, and folding test) based on the panelists' preference level using a hedonic test and chemical analysis (water content and fat content) and shelf life of pempek for each treatment. Chemical test data were analyzed descriptively while the organoleptic test results were analyzed using the Friedman test. Based on the Friedman test, it was found that pempek edible coating chitosan with the addition of citronella oil up to 2.5% is still preferred by panelists with a water content on 1st day was 53.08% and on 4th day was 53.05% while the fat content on 1st day was 1.46% and on 4th day was 2.72%. Based on the Bayes test, taste is the most important criterion compared to appearance, texture and aroma. Pempek edible coating chitosan with the addition of citronella oil has a shelf life of up to 4 days.
Problems and Challenges on Urban Water Management in Darjeeling Hill Town
Authors: Ghatani Suvechha
Published: February 2021

Provision of basic services such as portable water and sanitation are vital for health and wellbeing of the society. The growing intensity of use of water in urban environment due to increasing urbanization and rapidly growing population has posed significant challenges for efficient water supply and conservation in many developing countries. Darjeeling town alike most of these developing countries struggle for the improved access of water for urban population. The urban dwellers in Darjeeling Town struggles for the improved access of water due to increasing urban population. The daily uncertainty and anxiety over the access to water has been a common sight to the people in urban Darjeeling hills. The rapidly growing urban population associated with the increasing demand for water has led to striking challenges in the management practice of water resources. Consequently, a huge imbalance has generated between the demand and supply of water in the town. The present study therefore attempts to explore the existing situation of water resources and discuss the issues and challenges around the management of water resources in the urban landscape of Darjeeling hills. The study revealed that the gradual introduction of developmental activities, faulty construction plans relating to water, political intrusion, poor governance system and lack of public awareness are some of the prominent factors for insufficient water supply and creating a situation of scarcity in Darjeeling.
Strategic Way of Factoring Modulus ``\(N = p^r q\)
Authors: Shehu Sadiq , Hussaini Abdullahi , Lawal Zahriya
Published: February 2021

Cryptography is fundamental to the provision of a wider notion of information security. Electronic information can easily be transmitted and stored in relatively insecure environments. This research was present to factor the prime power modulus \(N = p^r q\) for \(r \geq 2\) using the RSA key equation, if \(\frac{y}{x}\) is a convergents of the continued fractions expansions of \(\frac{e}{N - \left(2^{\frac{2r+1}{r+1}} N^{\frac{r}{r+1}} - 2^{\frac{r-1}{r+1}} N^{\frac{r-1}{r+1}}\right)}\). We furthered our analysis on \(n\) prime power moduli \(N_i = p_i^r q_i\) by transforming the generalized key equations into Simultaneous Diophantine approximations and using the LLL algorithm on \(n\) prime power public keys \((N_i,e_i)\) we were able to factorize the \(n\) prime power moduli \(N_i = p_i^r q_i\), for \(i = 1,....,n\) simultaneously in polynomial time.
Urinary Schistosomiasis among Vulnerable Children in Security Challenged District of Safana, Katsina State - Nigeria
Authors: Auta Timothy , Ezra Jesse Joshua , Rufai Hafsat Sada , Alabi Emmanuel Dayo , Anthony Everest
Published: February 2021

Aims: Schistosomiasis is among the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) which has remained a global health burden, causing illnesses of great health, social and economic implications; especially among the most vulnerable. This study assessed the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among almajiri and primary school children in Safana Town, Katsina State, Nigeria.

Study Design: Random Sampling Technique was used in collection of samples.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in a security challenged Safana District, Katsina State, Nigeria between May and September, 2019.

Methodology: A total of three hundred (300) urine samples (150 each from almajiris and primary school pupils) were collected using plain sample bottles, they were taken to the Laboratory of the Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Dutsin-Ma, where they were analyzed for the eggs of Schistosoma haematobium using centrifugation technique. Data obtained were subjected to Chi-Square analysis to test for association with risk factors.

Results: Out of the 300 samples examined, 64 (21.3%) of them were infected with Schistosoma haematobium. The almajiri school had the highest prevalence infection of 42 (28.0%) out of the 150 samples examined, while the conventional schools (primary school) had the prevalence of 22 (14.6%) out of 150 examined. When prevalence was compared between males and females, 57 (25.1%) out of 227 males were infected, while only 7 (9.5%) out of 73 females had the infection. Significant associations of schistosomiasis with type of school (χ2 = 0.023) and with sex (χ2 = 0.005) were established.

Conclusion: The present study confirmed the endemicity of schistosomiasis in Safana despite several rounds Mass Drug Administration (MDA) with praziquantel; with almajiris remaining reservoirs of the infection in the District. Environmental improvement and snail vector elimination are required in this District, with a better coordinated MDA.
A New Phenomenon of Ni–Ti Alloys and Its Application for Fabricating Thermally Responsive Microrobots
Authors: Lv Jianran , Shen Hongyao , Fu Jianzhong
Published: February 2021

Ni–Ti alloys are widely applied in various fields due to their good biocompatibility and special shape memory function. To date, to make the Ni–Ti alloy ferromagnetic, the commonly used method is to add Fe or Ni particles to the Ni–Ti alloy. Within the knowledge, no reports have reported that the Ni–Ti alloys can possess ferromagnetism without adding magnetic particles. In the first half of this article, a process that can produce ferromagnetism in Ni–Ti alloys and explain the principle of the new process according to the Ni–Ti binary phase diagram is reported. On the other hand, magnetic micro‐robots have received widespread attention recent years and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology makes it possible to fabricate Ni–Ti micro‐robots. The remainder of this article introduces a type of thermally responsive micro‐robot, which is fabricated by the LPBF technology and combined with this new Ni–Ti alloy phenomenon. Experiments are performed to confirm that Ni–Ti micro‐robots have the ability to transport cargo and target delivery under the control of an external magnetic field. The combination of this new Ni–Ti alloy phenomenon and LPBF technology can provide a new avenue for manufacturing magnetic micro‐robots.
Cu‐Catalyzed Selective Synthesis of Propargylamines via A3‐Coupling/Aza‐Michael Addition Sequence: Amine Loading Controls the Selectivity
Authors: Feng Huangdi , Peng Futao , Xi Hui , Zhong Ling , Huang Liliang
Published: February 2021

Propargylamines are valuable molecules in medicinal chemistry and organic synthesis. A3 reaction is straightforward access to construct propargylamine and its derivatives. Here we report operationally simple catalytic domino A3‐coupling/aza‐Michael addition of a primary amine, formaldehyde solution, an alkyne, and an olefin using copper as a catalyst to produce a series of functionalized propargylamines in moderate to excellent yields. This protocol involves a competition between aza‐Michael addition and Mannich reaction. By changing the amount loading of amines to control the process of Mannich reaction is the key procedure of increasing the selectivity.
Immobilizing palladium on melamine‐functionalized magnetic nanoparticles: An efficient and reusable phosphine‐free catalyst for Mizoroki–Heck reaction
Authors: Aryanasab Fezzeh , Shabanian Meisam , Laoutid Fouad , Vahabi Henri
Published: February 2021

A highly efficient and stable heterogeneous catalyst was successfully prepared by anchoring palladium(0) onto melamine‐functionalized Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs‐Mel‐Pd). With the aid of amine functional groups, melamine was covalently bonded on epoxy functionalized magnetic nanoparticles and then Pd(0) was immobilized on this support with high dispersion. The prepared nanocatalyst exhibits excellent catalytic activity for CC cross coupling (Mizoroki–Heck) of various aryl halides (iodide, bromides, and chrlorides) with olefins under mild reaction condition in relatively short reaction times. The synthesized nanocatalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) techniques. The loading level of Pd in MNPs‐Mel‐Pd catalyst was measured to be 1.26 × 10−3 mol g−1 by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). In addition, the catalyst can be easily separated and recovered from the reaction mixture by using an external magnet. The heterogeneity of the catalyst was confirmed by the hot filtration test, which was reused for at least six times under the optimized conditions without any significant loss of its activity.
Bone remodeling and cyclical loading in maxillae of New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Lad Susan E. , Anderson Rebecca J. , Cortese Stephen A. , Alvarez Carmen E. , Danison Andrew D. , Morris Hannah M. , Ravosa Matthew J.
Published: February 2021

Mammalian feeding behaviors are altered when mechanically challenging (e.g., tough, stiff) foods require large bite forces or prolonged mastication. Bony responses to high bite forces are well‐documented for the mammalian skull, but osteogenesis due to cyclical loading, caused by repetitive chewing, is more poorly understood. Previous studies demonstrate that cyclical loading results in greater bone formation in the rabbit masticatory apparatus and in substantial Haversian remodeling in primate postcrania. Here we assess the relationship between cyclical loading and remodeling in the rabbit maxilla. Twenty male New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were raised on either an overuse or control diet (10 per group) for 48 weeks, beginning at weaning onset. The control group was raised on a diet of rabbit pellets (E = 29 MPa, R = 1031 J/m2), whereas the overuse group ate rabbit pellets and hay, which has high stiffness (E = 3336 MPa) and toughness (R = 2760 J/m2) properties. Hay requires greater chewing investment (475 chews/g) and longer chewing durations (568 s/g) than pellets (161 chews/g and 173 s/g), therefore causing cyclical loading of the jaws. Remodeling was measured as osteon population density (OPD), percent Haversian bone (%HAV), and osteon cross‐sectional area (On.Ar). The only significant difference found was greater On.Ar in the alveolar region of the maxilla (p < 0.001) in the overuse group. The hypothesis that cyclical loading engenders Haversian remodeling in the developing maxilla is not supported. The continuation of modeling throughout the experimental duration may negate the need for remodeling as newly laid bone tends to be more compliant and resistant to crack propagation.
Identification of critical windows in early development of human upper respiratory tract and middle ear disease
Authors: Pagano Anthony S. , Márquez Samuel , Smith Christopher M. , Laitman Jeffrey T.
Published: February 2021

Otitis media (OM) or middle ear disease is a prevalent pediatric condition generally related to early growth of the cartilaginous Eustachian tube (CET). This study used a developmental series of dry crania to reconstruct CET and dilator tubae (DT, the muscle opening the CET) morphology. Timing and directionality of CET and upper respiratory tract (URT) growth were investigated. Traditional and 3D geometric morphometrics (GM) were used to assess bony landmarks on the crania. The series was divided using dental eruption into seven growth stages ranging from before eruption of deciduous dentition (approximately the first 6 postnatal months) to eruption of the first permanent maxillary molar (after approximately 6 years). Bony endpoints of the CET and DT were used to calculate their morphology. GM analysis showed substantial shape differences between newborns, early infants, and all later developmental stages. Univariate measures showed the largest growth change between birth and 6 months. Subsequently, CET morphology changed little in the latter half of year 1, instead maturing gradually until approximately 3 years whereas DT relative length and orientation finish growth by the end of year 1. Incongruence in slower CET growth and faster DT growth could impact CET function between 6 and 12 months and be a contributing factor of OM. Tubal aeration may improve after this time when both CET and DT morphology mature, coinciding with clinically reported drop‐off in ear infections.
Genome‐Wide Reduction in Chromatin Accessibility and Unique Transcription Factor Footprints in Endothelial Cells and Fibroblasts in Scleroderma Skin
Authors: Tsou Pei‐Suen , Palisoc Pamela J. , Ali Mustafa , Khanna Dinesh , Sawalha Amr H.
Published: February 2021

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterized by widespread fibrosis and vascular complications. This study was undertaken to examine the chromatin landscape and transcription factor footprints in SSc, using an assay for genome‐wide chromatin accessibility.

Methods

Dermal endothelial cells (ECs) and fibroblasts were isolated from healthy controls and patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc). Assay for transposase‐accessible chromatin with sequencing (ATAC‐seq) was performed to assess genome‐wide chromatin accessibility at a read depth of ~150 million reads per sample. Transcription factor footprinting and motif binding analysis were performed, followed by functional experiments.

Results

Chromatin accessibility was significantly reduced in dcSSc patients compared to healthy controls. Differentially accessible chromatin loci were enriched in pathways and gene ontologies involved in the nervous system, cell membrane projections and cilia motility, nuclear and steroid receptors, and nitric oxide. In addition, chromatin binding of transcription factors SNAI2, ETV2, and ELF1 was significantly increased in dcSSc ECs, while recruitment of RUNX1 and RUNX2 was enriched in dcSSc fibroblasts. We found significant down‐regulation of the neuronal gene NRXN1 and up‐regulation of SNAI2 and ETV2 in dcSSc ECs. In dcSSc fibroblasts, down‐regulation of the neuronal gene ENTPD1 and up‐regulation of RUNX2 were confirmed. Further functional analysis revealed that ETV2 and NRXN1 dysregulation affected angiogenesis in ECs, while ENTPD1 enhanced profibrotic properties in dcSSc fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Our data identify the chromatin blueprint of dcSSc, and suggest that neuronal‐related characteristics of SSc ECs and fibroblasts could be a culprit for dysregulated angiogenesis and enhanced fibrosis. Targeting the key pathways and transcription factors identified might present novel therapeutic approaches in SSc.
Enhancement and mechanisms of MC3T3‐E1 osteoblast‐like cell adhesion to albumin through calcium exposure
Authors: Haag Stephanie L. , Schiele Nathan R. , Bernards Matthew T.
Published: February 2021

Serum albumin is the most prominent protein in blood, and it aids in bone fracture healing, though the manner through which enhanced healing occurs is not well understood. This study investigates the influence of calcium on the bioactivity of albumin due to the prevalence of calcium at bone injury sites. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) was exposed to varying concentrations of calcium, adsorbed to tissue culture polystyrene, and the subsequent BSA‐coated surfaces were evaluated with calcium titration, and cell adhesion, viability, and binding inhibition studies. Calcium‐modified BSA improved overall MC3T3‐E1 osteoblast‐like cell adhesion, although high calcium concentrations induced cell death. Inhibiting specific integrins revealed that without calcium exposure, cell binding to BSA was primarily mediated by integrins that typically bind to the GFOGER sequence of collagen. As calcium exposure increases, the primary binding interaction transitioned to integrins known to bind RGD. However, cell binding to calcium‐modified BSA was not completely eliminated during the inhibition studies indicating additional unidentified binding interactions occur. Overall, these results suggest that the exposure to calcium induces conformational changes that affect the cell‐binding bioactivity of BSA, which may explain the beneficial impact of albumin in bone tissue.
A UPLC–MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of nine antiepileptic drugs in human plasma and its application in TDM
Authors: Qi Yingjie , Liu Guangxuan
Published: February 2021

With the purpose of carrying out therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of nine antiepileptic drugs simultaneously in the clinic, a UPLC–MS/MS assay method was developed and validated. Separation of antiepileptic drugs and internal standard (naproxen and diazepam) was performed on an Agilent Eclipse XDB‐C18 column (50.0 × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm) using water and acetonitrile as mobile phase for gradient elution. Polarity switch ionization mode (positive–negative–positive) was performed in a total run time of 3.0 min. The method validation was conducted based on bioanalytical method validation guidance, including specificity, calibration curve, precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect, stability and dilution integrity, and all of the results satisfied the requirements. Consequently, the proposed method was applied to the TDM of nine antiepileptic drugs and was proved to be sensitive, reliable and specific to determine antiepileptic drugs in human plasma simultaneously. Meanwhile, the TDM results showed that the plasma drug concentration of many patients was not within the effective therapeutic range, especially those taking topiramate, oxcarbazepine and levetiracetam, which was of great guiding significance to rational drug use and timely adjustment of the treatment plan. Therefore, individualized therapy based on advanced analytical methods and TDM theory is of great practical significance.
Exchange of Proteins in Liposomes through Streptolysin O Pores
Authors: Tsuji Gakushi , Sunami Takeshi , Oki Masaya , Ichihashi Norikazu
Published: February 2021

Liposomes, which are vesicles surrounded by lipid membranes, can be used as biochemical reactors by encapsulating various reactions. Accordingly, they are useful for studying cellular functions under controlled conditions that mimic the environment within a cell. However, one of the shortcomings of liposomes as biochemical reactors is the difficulty of introducing or removing proteins due to the impermeability of the membrane. In this study, we established a method for exchanging proteins in liposomes by forming reversible pores in the membrane. We used the toxic protein streptolysin O (SLO); this forms pores in membranes made of phospholipids containing cholesterol that can be closed by the addition of calcium ions. After optimizing the experimental procedure and lipid composition, we observed the exchange of fluorescent proteins (transferrin Alexa Fluor 488 and 647) in 9.9 % of liposomes. We also introduced T7 RNA polymerase, a 98‐kDa enzyme, and observed RNA synthesis in ∼8 % of liposomes. Our findings establish a new method for controlling the internal protein composition of liposomes, thereby increasing their utility as bioreactors.
Embedding Heterostructured α‐MnS/MnO Nanoparticles in S‐Doped Carbonaceous Porous Framework as High‐Performance Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Yuan , Ma Yanjiao , Diemant Thomas , Cao Kecheng , Kaiser Ute , Behm R. Jürgen , Varzi Alberto , Passerini Stefano
Published: February 2021

In this work, the synthesis of α‐MnS/MnO/S‐doped C micro‐rod composites via a simple sulfidation process is demonstrated, starting from a Mn‐based metal‐organic framework. The resulting heterostructured α‐MnS/MnO nanoparticles (8±2 nm) are uniformly embedded into the S‐doped carbonaceous porous framework with hierarchical micro‐/meso‐porosity. The combination of structural and compositional characteristics results in the promising electrochemical performance of the as‐obtained composites as anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, coupled with high reversible capacity (940 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), excellent rate capability as well as long cycling lifespan at high rate of 2.0 A g−1 for 2000 cycles with the eventual capacity of ∼300 mAh g−1. Importantly, in situ X‐ray diffraction studies clearly reveal mechanistic details of the lithium storage mechanism, involving multistep conversion processes upon initial lithiation.
Tuning the Properties of MOF‐808 via Defect Engineering and Metal Nanoparticle Encapsulation
Authors: Hardian Rifan , Dissegna Stefano , Ullrich Aladin , Llewellyn Philip L. , Coulet Marie‐Vanessa , Fischer Roland A.
Published: February 2021

Defect engineering and metal encapsulation are considered as valuable approaches to fine‐tune the reactivity of metal–organic frameworks. In this work, various MOF‐808 (Zr) samples are synthesized and characterized with the final aim to understand how defects and/or platinum nanoparticle encapsulation act on the intrinsic and reactive properties of these MOFs. The reactivity of the pristine, defective and Pt encapsulated MOF‐808 is quantified with water adsorption and CO2 adsorption calorimetry. The results reveal strong competitive effects between crystal morphology and missing linker defects which in turn affect the crystal morphology, porosity, stability, and reactivity. In spite of leading to a loss in porosity, the introduction of defects (missing linkers or Pt nanoparticles) is beneficial to the stability of the MOF‐808 towards water and could also be advantageously used to tune adsorption properties of this MOF family.
Small Figure‐Eight Luminophores: Double‐Twisted Tethered Cyclic Binaphthyls Boost Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Nojima Yuki , Hasegawa Masashi , Hara Nobuyuki , Imai Yoshitane , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: February 2021

Invited for the cover of this issue are Masashi Hasegawa, Yoshitane Imai and co‐workers at Kitasato University and Kindai University. The image depicts the reported figure‐eight molecule as an M. C. Escher‐inspired ‘impossible object’. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202005320.
Calorimetry meets solvation – how to quantify dissolutions in detail
Authors: Wagner Tom
Published: February 2021

Ob Hochleistungssportler auf dem Feld oder Outdoor‐Spezialist hoch in den Bergen, die Energieumwandlungen der Löseprozesse von Salzen können vielfältig genutzt werden. Dabei setzt sich die gesamte Reaktionsenthalpie, die Lösungsenthalpie, aus Teilbeträgen zusammen. Vorgestellt werden drei Experimente mit einem einfachen Schulkalorimeter, mit denen die Lösungsenthalpien ausgewählter Salze sowie der Einfluss der Kationengröße und der Einfluss der Hydratation quantifiziert werden können.
Machine learning for early prediction of in‐hospital cardiac arrest in patients with acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Wu Ting Ting , Lin Xiu Quan , Mu Yan , Li Hong , Guo Yang Song
Published: February 2021

Background

Previous studies have used machine leaning to predict clinical deterioration to improve outcome prediction. However, no study has used machine learning to predict cardiac arrest in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Algorithms are required to generate high‐performance models for predicting cardiac arrest in ACS patients with multivariate features.

Hypothesis

Machine learning algorithms will significantly improve outcome prediction of cardiac arrest in ACS patients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study reviewed 166 ACS patients who had in‐hospital cardiac arrest. Eight machine learning algorithms were trained using multivariate clinical features obtained 24 h prior to the onset of cardiac arrest. All machine learning models were compared to each other and to existing risk prediction scores (Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events, National Early Warning Score, and Modified Early Warning Score) using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC).

Results

The XGBoost model provided the best performance with regard to AUC (0.958 [95%CI: 0.938–0.978]), accuracy (88.9%), sensitivity (73%), negative predictive value (89%), and F1 score (80%) compared with other machine learning models. The K‐nearest neighbor model generated the best specificity (99.3%) and positive predictive value (93.8%) metrics, but had low and unacceptable values for sensitivity and AUC. Most, but not all, machine learning models outperformed the existing risk prediction scores.

Conclusions

The XGBoost model, which was generated based on a machine learning algorithm, has high potential to be used to predict cardiac arrest in ACS patients. This proposed model significantly improves outcome prediction compared to existing risk prediction scores.
Zwitterionic Character and Lipid Composition Determine the Behaviour of Glycosylphosphatidylinositol Fragments in Monolayers
Authors: Malik Ankita , Seeberger Peter H. , Brezesinski Gerald , Varón Silva Daniel
Published: February 2021

Glycosylphosphatidylinositols (GPIs) are complex glycolipids found in free form or anchoring proteins to the outer leaflet of the cell membrane in eukaryotes. GPIs have been associated with the formation of lipid rafts and protein sorting on membranes. The presence of a conserved glycan core with cell‐specific modifications together with lipid remodelling during biosynthesis suggest that the properties of the glycolipids are being fine‐tuned. We synthesized a series of GPI fragments and evaluated the interactions and arrangement of these glycolipids in monolayers as a 2‐D membrane model. GIXD and IRRAS analyses showed the need of N‐acetylglucosamine deacetylation for the formation of hydrogen bonds to obtain highly structured domains in the monolayers and an effect of the unsaturated lipids in formation and localization of the glycolipids within or between membrane microdomains. These results contribute to understand the role of these glycolipids and their modifications in the organization of membranes.
Crude Wax Extracted from Rice Bran Oil Improves Oleogel Properties and Oxidative Stability
Authors: Wang Ning , Chen Jun , Zhou Qi , Jiang Lianzhou , Wang Liqi , Dai Yingjie , Yu Dianyu , Elfalleh Walid
Published: February 2021

Crude wax extracted from rice bran oil (RBO) is used to improve the oleogel properties and oxidative stability of RBO. The effect of crude rice bran wax (CrBW) on the formation characteristics and oxidative stability of oleogels is discussed. The results show that oleogels can be formed with 7.0 wt% CrBW at 20 °C. As the concentration of CrBW increases from 7.0 to 11.0 wt%, the hardness and solid fat content (SFC) of the oleogels increase significantly, and the oleogels are primarily β' crystals. Moreover, oleogel crystals formed with 5 and 7 wt% CrBW are flocculent; when the amount included is 9%, the oleogel crystals are transformed into long dendrites, and the density rises. After 90 days of storage at 20 °C, the peroxide value of oleogels formed with 9.0 wt% CrBW slowly rises from 3.21 to 6.52 mmol kg−1.

Practical Applications: Oleogels prepared here by CrBW and RBO are an innovative structural lipid without trans fats. Useful information on the rich fats and nutrients in CrBW is provided, which reduces the production cost and improves the industrial production capacity.
Geomorphic expression of the Lenglong Ling area, eastern Qilian Shan, and its coupling relationship with the deep structures
Authors: Li Zhi‐min , Su Qi , Xie Hong , Wang Bo
Published: February 2021

Located at the outer edge of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau, the Qilian Shan has long been considered to be the key area to address the issue of how the Tibetan Plateau generates its high topography. However, in spite of the fruitful achievements on the growth pattern and subtle crustal structures of the Qilian Shan, what we know about the regional topography evolution and its relationship with the deep structures are still lacking. In this study, the landscape features of the eastern Qilian Shan and the probable drainage evolution history of the Lenglong Ling, located within the central part of the eastern Qilian Shan, are investigated, based on the multiple geomorphic analyses (i.e., HI and steepness distributions, and the Gilbert and χ metrics). The topographic results show that high HI and steepness values distribute mainly in areas controlled by active faults (i.e., the mountain areas). In addition, the Gilbert and χ metrics suggest that the main Lenglong Ling divide is stable. According to the drainage divide stability criteria, we suggest that the presence of the uplift rate gradient in the eastern Qilian Shan (i.e., with higher uplift in the Lenglong Ling area), which is suggested by the topographic results, has driven the main divide to migrate southward and is now “holding” the divide in place. Taking the previously published magnetotelluric imaging into account, we reveal the coupling relationship between the deep structures and the regional geomorphic features, and further suggest that the Lenglong Ling Fault, or the Qilian‐Haiyuan Fault, makes a difference in regional strain transferring and relief generation.