bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Potential Use of Ectoine Produced by a Moderately Halophilic Bacteria Chromohalobacter salexigens KT989776 for Enhancing Germination and Primary Seedling of Flax “Linum usitatissimum L.” under Salinity Conditions
Authors: Elsakhawy Tamer A. , Fetyan Nashwa, A. H. , Ghazi Azza A.
Published: July 2019

The similarity between plant and microbial cells encourage the use of microbial metabolites of halophilic bacteria for the alleviation of salt stress in plants. In the current research work, a compatible solute ectoine extracted from a moderately halophilic bacteria Chromohalobacter salexigens KT989776 was used to enhance flax germination and primary seedling under different levels of salinity. Two successive experiments including germination in Petri plates under six levels of salinity (0, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 dS.m-1) and a pot experiment under three irrigating water salinity levels (2, 3 and 4) with two types of ectoine application (spray and soil addition) were conducted. Germination parameters were recorded for the first experiment while a fresh and dry weight of plants and peroxidase activity in addition to sodium-potassium ratio were estimated in the pot experiment. Also, ectoine accumulation in plants was detected using HPLC. Results of LC-MS proved the production of ectoine by C. salexigens KT989776 and ectoine enhanced significantly all germination parameters of flax seeds, decreased sodium accumulation in the plant, increased potassium content, and lowered peroxidase and phenoloxidase activity. Also, HPLC analysis proved that ectoine was detected in all treated samples while not detected in non-treated control.
Distribution of Some Macro Nutrients and Chemical Properties in Some Semi-arid Soils of Borno State
Authors: Sandabe M. K. , Zubairu A. M. , Yusuf M. I.
Published: July 2019

The research was carried out to study the distribution of some macro nutrients and chemical Properties in some semi–arid soils of Borno state. Three composite soil samples were collected at different locations at depth of 0-20 cm which were analysed for some macro nutrients and chemical properties. University of Maiduguri (Unimaid) soil is slightly acidic to neutral in reaction,  low in electrical conductivity (EC), high base saturation, low in percent organic carbon, moderate in calcium, high in magnesium, low in potassium, high in sodium, low in available phosphorus. Dalori soils were neutral in reaction, low in EC, high base saturation low in percent organic carbon, low in calcium, high in magnesium, low in potassium, high in sodium, low in available phosphorus. Gongulong soil was moderately acidic in reaction, moderate in EC, high base saturation, moderate in percent organic carbon, high in calcium, very high in magnesium, moderate in potassium, high in sodium, low in available phosphorus.
Factors Associated with Level of Patient Activation and Its Role to Glycemic Control and among Adults with Type II Diabetes Attending Diabetic Clinic at Hospitals in Addis Ababa
Authors: Assefa Selomon , Endris Kedir , Ashencho Demeke , Eyasu Mebrahtu
Published: July 2019

Introduction: Lifestyle interventions as supper arranging and exercise assume a significant job in a Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) program. The impact of poly-pharmacy on way of life changes, for example, nourishment and exercise isn't surely known. Deciding and evaluating patient's dimension of enactment and its association with physical action level, supper arranging, and poly-pharmacy in patients with Type II diabetes is a significant standard for Diabetes Self-Management mediations.                

Objective:  The aim of this study was to determine patient activation levels and associated factors among type II diabetic patents attending diabetic clinic at hospitals in Addis Ababa.    

Methods: Institutional based cross-sectional examination configuration was led. This investigation was led on 423 Type II diabetic patients going to diabetic facilities at emergency clinics in Addis Ababa. Study members were chosen by utilizing orderly arbitrary examining procedure. A pre-tried organized survey was utilized to gather the information. Understanding Activation Measure (PAM-13) was utilized to survey tolerant actuation levels. Information were entered and dissected utilizing SPSS rendition 23 for windows. Concentrate members' qualities were portrayed as far as mean (Standard deviation) and recurrence (extent). Bivariate examination and various calculated relapse investigations were completed to recognize free factors related with patient enactment among sort II diabetes patients.        

Results: The mean (SD) age of the study participants was 55.7(±9.8) years.  Majority of the study participants, 319 (77.8%) had low meal planning knowledge, 62.4% of patients involved in low physical activity and 82.2% had poor glycemic control. About 75.6% of the patients had low activation and the remaining 24.4% had high activation. The independent factors associated with lower activation were Illiterate educational status (AOR=2.4, 95% CI: 1.5-3.3), low physical activity (AOR=1.8, 95% CI: 1.4-2.9), low meal planning knowledge (AOR=1.5, 95% CI: 1.3-2.4), chronic comorbidities (AOR=2.1, 95% CI: 1.6-3.9) and poor glycemic control (AOR = 4.2, 95% CI: 2.4–7.5).

Conclusions: The findings revealed that majority of diabetic II patients had low activation; indicating patients had low knowledge and understanding regarding the influence of lifestyle in diabetes management. Illiterate educational status, low physical activity, low meal planning knowledge, chronic comorbidities and poor glycemic control were significantly associated with lower activation.
Manufacture of Biogas from the Anaerobic Treatment of Cow Dung from Federal University of Technology, Owerri Livestock Farm
Authors: Ugwu O. E. , Igbanny J. U. , Ademiju T. S.
Published: July 2019

Energy from hydrocarbon compounds has over the years been expensive and also played a part in negative health implications amongst others, for this reason alternative sources of energy have been sort for. In the quest for a healthier, more cost-effective energy, cow dung as a renewable source has been proven to be very efficient. This study investigated the manufacture of biogas using cow dung from School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (S.A.A.T) livestock farm located in Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.

25 kg of the cow dung was used in this study. The digestion was carried out in a 50L anaerobic digester at a temperature of 30°C - 36°C and uncontrolled pH for a period of 40 days. The average quantity of biogas produced through the period was 10.39 liters, representing 46% of the total biogas production. The average temperature was 33.0°C. The utilization of cow dung as fuel will also help in the management of waste within the livestock farm. As an eco-friendly source of energy, the biomass generated after digestion can be utilized to improve soil fertility.
Unripe Rind and Pulp of Ananas comosus Accelerate Wound Healing in Diabetic Wistar Rat
Authors: Ajani Rotimi Sunday , Opadokun Nurudeen Abiola
Published: July 2019

Objective: One of the sequelae of diabetes mellitus is chronic foot ulcer. This study investigated wound healing propensity of the pulp and rind of Ananas comosus (a widely cultivated fruit with many health benefits) in diabetic wistar rats.

Methods: The excisional wounds of twenty four adult wistar rats with induced diabetes in four groups of six each were dressed with the pulp powder (PPD), pulp extract (PED), rind powder (RPD) and rind extract (RED) of A. comosus daily till healed. Also the mean wound contraction rates were calculated from the wound areas every three days. Granulation tissue was biopsied from an animal per group on day 3, 6 and 9 for histopathological evaluation. Each of these groups had a corresponding equal number control group with similar procedures performed.

Results: The mean wound contraction rates of the rind pulp diabetic (RPD) and rind extract diabetic (RED) groups paralleled those of their respective control group (RPC, REC) as they were not significantly different. Also amongst the diabetic groups, the rind of A. comosus demonstrated greater wound healing capability over the respective pulp counterpart (PPD, PED) as evidenced by significantly higher mean wound contraction rates. Histopathologic features of the granulation tissues and scars of the diabetic groups were similar to those of the control groups.

Conclusion: Although, both the rind and pulp of unripe A. comosus either in extract or powder formulation were shown in this study to possess excellent healing potentials in diabetic wounds, the rind appeared to be better off and may be a viable alternative to the wound dressing materials currently in use in the management of diabetic wounds / ulcers.
Magnesium Regulates Endothelial Barrier Functions through TRPM7, MagT1, and S1P1
Authors: Zhu Donghui , You Jing , Zhao Nan , Xu Huaxi
Published: July 2019

Mg2+‐deficiency is linked to hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, migraine headaches, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes, etc., but its exact role in these pathophysiological conditions remains elusive. Mg2+ can regulate vascular functions, yet the mechanistic insight remains ill‐defined. Data show that extracellular Mg2+ enters endothelium mainly through the TRPM7 channel and MagT1 transporter. Mg2+ can act as an antagonist to reduce Ca2+ signaling in endothelium. Mg2+ also reduces the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and inflammation. In addition, Mg2+‐signaling increases endothelial survival and growth, adhesion, and migration. Endothelial barrier integrity is significantly enhanced with Mg2+‐treatment through S1P1‐Rac1 pathways and barrier‐stabilizing mediators including cAMP, FGF1/2, and eNOS. Mg2+ also promotes cytoskeletal reorganization and junction proteins to tighten up the barrier. Moreover, Mg2+‐deficiency enhances endothelial barrier permeability in mice, and Mg2+‐treatment rescues histamine‐induced transient vessel hyper‐permeability in vivo. In summary, Mg2+‐deficiency can cause deleterious effects in endothelium integrity, and Mg2+‐treatment may be effective in the prevention or treatment of vascular dysfunction.
Phenotype delineation of ZNF462 related syndrome
Authors: Kruszka Paul , Hu Tommy , Hong Sungkook , Signer Rebecca , Cogné Benjamin , Isidor Betrand , Mazzola Sarah E. , Giltay Jacques C. , van Gassen Koen L. I. , England Eleina M. , Pais Lynn , Ockeloen Charlotte W. , Sanchez‐Lara Pedro A. , Kinning Esther , Adams Darius J. , Treat Kayla , Torres‐Martinez Wilfredo , Bedeschi Maria F. , Iascone Maria , Blaney Stephanie , Bell Oliver , Tan Tiong Y. , Delrue Marie‐Ange , Jurgens Julie , Barry Brenda J. , Engle Elizabeth C. , Savage Sarah K. , Fleischer Nicole , Martinez‐Agosto Julian A. , Boycott Kym , Zackai Elaine H. , Muenke Maximilian
Published: July 2019

Zinc finger protein 462 (ZNF462) is a relatively newly discovered vertebrate specific protein with known critical roles in embryonic development in animal models. Two case reports and a case series study have described the phenotype of 10 individuals with ZNF462 loss of function variants. Herein, we present 14 new individuals with loss of function variants to the previous studies to delineate the syndrome of loss of function in ZNF462. Collectively, these 24 individuals present with recurring phenotypes that define a multiple congenital anomaly syndrome. Most have some form of developmental delay (79%) and a minority has autism spectrum disorder (33%). Characteristic facial features include ptosis (83%), down slanting palpebral fissures (58%), exaggerated Cupid's bow/wide philtrum (54%), and arched eyebrows (50%). Metopic ridging or craniosynostosis was found in a third of study participants and feeding problems in half. Other phenotype characteristics include dysgenesis of the corpus callosum in 25% of individuals, hypotonia in half, and structural heart defects in 21%. Using facial analysis technology, a computer algorithm applying deep learning was able to accurately differentiate individuals with ZNF462 loss of function variants from individuals with Noonan syndrome and healthy controls. In summary, we describe a multiple congenital anomaly syndrome associated with haploinsufficiency of ZNF462 that has distinct clinical characteristics and facial features.
A Trial of Sertraline or Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Depression in Epilepsy
Authors: Gilliam Frank G. , Black Kevin J. , Carter Jewell , Freedland Kenneth E. , Sheline Yvette I. , Tsai Wei‐Yann , Lustman Patrick J.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Limited evidence is available to guide treatment of depression for persons with epilepsy. We evaluated the comparative effectiveness of sertraline and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for depression, quality of life, seizures, and adverse treatment effects.

Methods

We randomly assigned 140 adult outpatients with epilepsy and current major depressive disorder to sertraline or weekly CBT for 16 weeks. The primary outcome was remission from depression based on the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). Secondary outcomes included the Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory‐89 (QOLIE‐89) seizure rates, the Adverse Events Profile (AEP), the Beck Depression Inventory, and MINI Suicide Risk Module.

Results

In the intention‐to‐treat analysis, 38 (52.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = ±12) of the 72 subjects assigned to sertraline and 41 (60.3%; 95% CI = ±11.6) of the 68 subjects in the CBT group achieved remission; the lower bound of efficacy for both groups was greater than our historical placebo control group upper bound of 33.7%. Difference in time to remission between groups was 2.8 days (95% CI = ±0.43; p = 0.79). The percent improvement of mean QOLIE‐89 scores was significant for both the CBT (25.7%; p < 0.001) and sertraline (28.3%; p < 0.001) groups. The difference in occurrence of generalized tonic–clonic seizures between groups was 0.3% (95% CI = ±8.6; p = 0.95). Suicide risk at final assessment was associated with persistent depression (p < 0.0001) but not seizures or sertraline.

Interpretation

Depression remitted in just over one‐half of subjects following sertraline or CBT. Despite the complex psychosocial disability associated with epilepsy, improving depression benefits quality of life. Serotonin reuptake inhibition does not appear to increase seizures or suicidality in persons with epilepsy. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:552–560
Midpoint transverse process to pleura catheter placement for postoperative analgesia following video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Watton D. E. , Rose P. G. D. , Abdallah F. W. , Thompson C. P. , Maziak D. E. , Costache I.
Published: July 2019

The ultrasound‐guided midpoint transverse process to pleura block has been described as an alternative end‐point for thoracic paravertebral blockade. Although originally described as a single‐level block, midpoint transverse process to pleura blockade may cover more than one level when larger volumes of injectate are used. Moreover, a continuous catheter midpoint transverse process to pleura blockade technique was previously thought to be unfeasible. We report three cases where a midpoint transverse process to pleura continuous catheter technique was successfully used for postoperative analgesia following video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery.
Half‐sandwich Ru (II) complexes containing (N, O) Schiff base ligands: Catalysts for base‐free transfer hydrogenation of ketones
Authors: Satheesh C.E. , Sathish Kumar Pushpanathan N. , Kumara P. Raghavendra , Karvembu Ramasamy , Hosamani Amar , Nethaji M.
Published: July 2019

Two new half‐sandwich Ru (II)(p‐cymene) complexes (1 and 2) containing dopamine‐based (N, O) Schiff base ligands (L1H and L2H) were synthesized and characterized by FT‐IR, UV–Visible and 1H & 13C NMR spectral techniques, and elemental analyses. The spectroscopic and analytical data revealed monobasic bidentate coordination of the ligands with Ru ion. The molecular structures of L1H, L2H and 2 were further confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction study. Complexes 1 and 2 have been employed as catalysts in the transfer hydrogenation of ketones using 2‐propanol as a hydrogen source at 85 °C under base‐free condition. Good to the excellent yield of secondary alcohols, gram scale synthesis, and high TON and TOF made this catalytic system interesting.
Estimating the Composition of Interesterification Products Made from Triacylglycerol Oil with Glycerol and/or Propylene Glycol
Authors: Dijkstra Albert J.
Published: July 2019

Thanks to the development of personal computers and software, it is often faster and, therefore, cheaper to calculate product properties than to determine them analytically, but such calculations are only possible after the appropriate mathematical equations have been formulated. Formulating these equations may use some assumptions and parameters that have been determined experimentally. This article describes a method of calculating the composition of the ester interchange reaction product of triacylglycerol oil with glycerol and/or propylene glycol; it can be extended to include further polyols. The calculation requires the composition of the starting material, the saponification and hydroxyl values of the oil, and three parameters indicating how the fatty acid distribution in the reaction product deviates from random. These parameters are not known but can be quantified by combining the method of calculation described in this article and some analytical results.
Mountains‐to‐the‐sea conservation: An island perspective
Authors: Collier Kevin J. , Pilditch Conrad A. , Lundquist Carolyn J.
Published: July 2019

Island nations such as New Zealand provide valuable insights into conservation challenges posed by strongly connected and recently developed or exploited freshwater and marine ecosystems.

The narrow land mass, high rainfall, and steep terrain of New Zealand, like many other island nations, mean that land‐based stressors are rapidly transferred to freshwater habitats and propagated downstream to coastal environments via short, fast‐flowing river systems.

Freshwater and marine environments are linked through faunal life histories; for example, diadromous fishes, many of which are considered threatened or at risk of extinction, and require cross‐ecosystem conservation to ensure survival of critical life stages and persistence of source populations.

Recent invasions of marine and freshwater environments by non‐indigenous species reveal rapid impacts on a naïve biota and highlight conservation conundrums caused by management aimed at enhancing native biodiversity by improving habitat connectivity.

Understanding and managing interconnected freshwater and marine ecosystems is a key concept for local indigenous communities, and highlights socio‐cultural connectivity and sustainable local harvesting of traditional resources as key elements of contemporary marine and freshwater conservation planning in New Zealand.
Corporate social responsibility reporting and corporate governance mechanisms: An international outlook from emerging countries
Authors: Gallego‐Álvarez Isabel , Pucheta‐Martínez María Consuelo
Published: July 2019

Within corporate governance, the board of directors plays a major role in improving corporate transparency by increasing the disclosure of corporate social responsibility (CSR) information. In this paper, we analyse the effect of board composition, particularly board independence, board gender diversity, CEO duality, and the presence of a CSR board committee on CSR reporting. Evidence of this effect is still scarce when it concerns the effect of corporate governance mechanisms and CSR disclosure in firms pertaining to emerging market economies, and for this reason, our study focuses on this type of country. Our sample comprises 934 international firm‐year observations from the following 10 countries with emerging markets: Brazil, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Egypt, India, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, and Thailand for the period 2004–2015. This classification of countries with emerging markets is based on the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging Markets Index. Drawing on agency and stakeholder approaches, we posit four hypotheses: board independence and CSR board committees positively affect CSR disclosure, whereas board gender diversity and CEO duality have a negative effect. The results obtained reveal that in emerging market economies, the presence of women on boards of directors is quite limited and, therefore, their participation in decision‐making is minimal. Furthermore, CEO duality discourages the disclosure of CSR information, which may be justified for the family orientation of most firms in these countries, where the CEO is usually also the chairperson of the board.
Improving smallholder livelihoods and ecosystems through direct trade relations: High‐quality cocoa producers in Ecuador
Authors: Middendorp Romaike S. , Boever Olivia , Rueda Ximena , Lambin Eric F.
Published: July 2019

Global trade in niche commodities has increased the influence of consumers' choices on land use change and livelihoods in developing rural areas. New niche commodity markets for fine cocoa—produced by old tree varieties frequently grown in shaded agroforestry systems—create more direct linkages between producers and buyers. We explored the socioeconomic and environmental outcomes for cocoa smallholders that participated in direct trade relations compared with smallholders that sold through mainstream markets. Household interviews were conducted with cocoa smallholders in northern Ecuador. Biodiversity conditions at farm level were monitored for 75% of surveyed households. Using a counterfactual based on genetic matching, we found that smallholders engaged in direct trade (a) captured superior prices for cocoa sales; (b) had greater access to agricultural training, technical assistance, and improved social networks; and (b) applied more nature‐friendly management practices, compared with smallholders selling through mainstream markets. However, a strong overlap between direct trading practices and organic certification made attribution of environmental benefits difficult. This overlap likely explained why farmers engaged in direct trade used more organic fertilizers and less herbicide. Shade level and plant species richness and abundance in plantations were unrelated to market participation. Additional qualitative analyses suggest that certification facilitates engagement in direct trade and that some direct buyers request certification. This study provides insights on the potential of developing value chain innovations for high‐quality commodity trade. The success of value chain innovations hinges on the competitiveness of farmers' cooperatives and involvement of governments, nongovernmental organizations, and private actors.
Boundary‐spanning search and firms' green innovation: The moderating role of resource orchestration capability
Authors: Wang Juanru , Xue Yajiong , Yang Jin
Published: July 2019

Building on resource‐based theory and resource orchestration theory, we investigate the impact of two characteristics of boundary‐spanning search, search breadth and search depth, on firms' exploitative and exploratory green innovations. We also examine the moderating role of resource orchestration capability. The results of data analysis from 186 manufacturing firms in China show that both search breadth and search depth have inverted U‐shaped relationships with exploitative and exploratory green innovations. Furthermore, resource orchestration capability is found to moderate the inverted U‐shaped relationship between boundary‐spanning search and green innovation. Specifically, with high resource orchestration capability, the inverted U‐shaped relationships of search breadth with exploitative and exploratory green innovations are flattened, whereas the relationships of search depth with exploitative and exploratory green innovations are almost linear. Our research contributes to the literature on green innovation by uncovering the complex effects of boundary‐spanning search on exploitative and exploratory green innovations.
Carotid body paraganglioma
Authors: Pitchaiprasert Suwanna , Boonchaya‐Anant Patchaya , Snabboon Thiti
Published: July 2019

Carotid body paraganglioma is commonly asymptomatic, slow‐growing, and nonfunctioning. With its relative contraindication to biopsy due to its high vascularity in nature, imaging characteristics are the key to help making the diagnosis. Treatment modalities, ranging from an observation to definitive treatment with surgery, should be selected on an individual basis.
Primary plasma cell leukemia: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ngu Sam , Asti Divya , Valecha Gautam , Thumallapally Nishitha , Pant Manisha , Bershadskiy Alexander
Published: July 2019

Due to the rarity and fulminant nature of the condition, there are limited data driving dialogue for optimal treatment strategies for plasma cell leukemia (PCL). Additionally, the current diagnostic definition of PCL has not been prospectively studied which may result in delays to initiating early aggressive treatment due to underdiagnosis.
Extent of lipohypertrophy in diabetic patients—Sometimes much more than meets the eye
Authors: Harsch Igor Alexander
Published: July 2019

Lipohypertrophies frequently occur during insulin therapy. They alter insulin absorption, causing higher insulin requirements (and costs), fluctuating blood glucose and episodes of unpredictable hypoglycemia. Screening is mandatory, as well as assessment of their actual size. Counseling recommending regular changes of the injection sites (“rotating”) is important to prevent LH.
Optimal Control for Chemical Reactors with Distributed Parameters Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Woinaroschy Alexandru
Published: July 2019

Genetic algorithms (GA) have been very seldom applied in the optimization of chemical reactors with distributed parameters, described by models containing differential equations. GA are applied here in the frame of four case studies. In all four cases, the GA are superior in comparison to other methods, such as maximum principle (up to 20.72 %), simulated annealing (up to 0.11 %), and particle swarm optimization (up to 36.74 %). Possibly, the solutions obtained by GA can be improved by a better selection of the values of the method parameters, but this was not the aim of the present work. The use of optimal control can produce an important economic improvement, especially by increasing the selectivity, which significantly enhances the use of raw materials.
Acceptance of robo‐advisors: Effects of financial experience, affective reactions, and self‐enhancement motives
Authors: Hohenberger Christoph , Lee Chaiwoo , Coughlin Joseph F.
Published: July 2019

Robo‐advisors have recently been gaining interest as a technology‐enabled means to make financial management easier. The aim of this study is to examine how people's self‐assessed financial experience, affective reactions, and the interplay with individual values influence their willingness to use a robo‐advisor. We argue that one's self‐assessed financial experience influences the willingness to use robo‐advisors as a result of different affective reactions (i.e., anxiety and joy) associated with its usage. We further posit that the mediating effect of anxiety varies with individual levels of a motivational factor—self‐enhancement—which has been found to regulate anxiety‐related feelings. Based on a large‐scale nationwide survey with an online sample of American adults, it was found that affective responses (i.e., anxiety and joy) explain (i.e., mediate) the effect of self‐assessed financial experience on the willingness to use robo‐advisor. Moreover, the mediating effect of anxiety was found to vary with levels of self‐enhancement motives. The findings suggest that willingness to use robo‐advisors may be increased with positive emotions (e.g., joy) expected from use, while decreased by anticipated negative emotions (e.g., anxiety), and that the relationship may be altered by inducing individuals' self‐enhancement motives (e.g., possibility of accumulating wealth).
Twenty cases of allergic contact dermatitis due to benzoyl peroxide in acne patients in Japan
Authors: Iijima Shigeruko , Tsunoda Takahiko
Published: July 2019

Background

Benzoyl peroxide is a topical antiacne drug, which also acts as a strong irritant and a weak allergen. Only a few acne patients with allergic contact dermatitis due to benzoyl peroxide gel have been diagnosed by patch testing in Japan. Therefore, the number of such patients is probably underestimated.

Objectives

To correctly diagnose such cases by patch testing and to determine their characteristics and frequency.

Patients and methods

Twenty acne patients that were diagnosed with allergic contact dermatitis between April 2015 and April 2018 were enrolled in this study. Patch tests were performed with acne gels containing benzoyl peroxide and 1% benzoyl peroxide in petrolatum. The patients' profiles and the frequency of dermatitis were analyzed.

Results

All of the patients were female, and their mean age was 24.1 ± 9.3 years. Two patients were suffering from atopic dermatitis. The onset of allergic contact dermatitis occurred at 1 to 2 days, 9 to 28 days, and >30 days (longest: up to 24 months) after the initial application of the causative substance in 3 patients, 9 patients, and 8 patients, respectively. The frequency of such cases was 4.5% at our clinic.

Conclusions

Benzoyl peroxide gels for acne were demonstrated to often act as allergic contact allergens, and thus, dermatologists should be aware of their allergenicity and be apprehensive about markedly increasing the use of such gels in the future.
Plasma metabolites mediate the effect of HbA1c on incident cardiovascular disease
Authors: Dong Xuesi , Zhou Wei , Li Hu , Fan Yuanming , Yin Xiaojian , Li Yong , Chen Feng , Ma Gaoxiang
Published: July 2019

Background

We aim to discover whether HbA1c affects incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) through regulating endogenous metabolites.

Methods and Results

Totally, 2019 plasma samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Logistic regression and linear regression were used to screen metabolites which were associated with both CVD and HbA1c. The VanderWeele's mediation approach was performed to assess the direct effect and indirect effect (IE) in the counterfactual model. Forty‐eight metabolites showed an association with both HbA1c and CVD risk. Forty‐four of the 48 metabolites worked as mediators mediated in HbA1c's effect on CVD (odds ratio [OR]IE from 0.997 to 6.098, false discovery rate q < 0.05, mediated proportion from 0.4% to 85.4%). Pathway enrichment analysis indicated that different metabolic pathway showed significant IE (butanoate metabolism ORIE = 1.058, mediated proportion = 16.0%; alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism ORIE = 1.082, mediated proportion = 21.8%; TCA (citric acid) cycle metabolism ORIE = 1.048, mediated proportion = 13.8%; phenylalanine metabolism ORIE = 1.067, mediated proportion = 18.4%; glycerophospholipid metabolism ORIE = 3.007, mediated proportion = 82.2%; all the P < .01).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that metabolites mediate the effect of HbA1c on incident CVD and provide a new study sight into pathogenesis of CVD.
Virtual Pharmacophore Screening Identifies Small‐Molecule Inhibitors of the Rev1‐CT/RIR Protein–Protein Interaction
Authors: Dash Radha C. , Ozen Zuleyha , McCarthy Kaitlyn R. , Chatterjee Nimrat , Harris Cynthia A. , Rizzo Alessandro A. , Walker Graham C. , Korzhnev Dmitry M. , Hadden M. Kyle
Published: July 2019

Translesion synthesis (TLS) has emerged as a mechanism through which several forms of cancer develop acquired resistance to first‐line genotoxic chemotherapies by allowing replication to continue in the presence of damaged DNA. Small molecules that inhibit TLS hold promise as a novel class of anticancer agents that can serve to enhance the efficacy of these front‐line therapies. We previously used a structure‐based rational design approach to identify the phenazopyridine scaffold as an inhibitor of TLS that functions by disrupting the protein–protein interaction (PPI) between the C‐terminal domain of the TLS DNA polymerase Rev1 (Rev1‐CT) and the Rev1 interacting regions (RIR) of other TLS DNA polymerases. To continue the identification of small molecules that disrupt the Rev1‐CT/RIR PPI, we generated a pharmacophore model based on the phenazopyridine scaffold and used it in a structure‐based virtual screen. In vitro analysis of promising hits identified several new chemotypes with the ability to disrupt this key TLS PPI. In addition, several of these compounds were found to enhance the efficacy of cisplatin in cultured cells, highlighting their anti‐TLS potential.
Phenol‐Soluble‐Modulin‐Inspired Amphipathic Peptides Have Bactericidal Activity against Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Zeng Ping , Xu Chen , Cheng Qipeng , Liu Jun , Gao Wei , Yang Xuemei , Wong Kwok‐Yin , Chen Sheng , Chan Kin‐Fai
Published: July 2019

Phenol‐soluble modulins (PSMs) are a large family of cytolytic peptide toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus. Based on their amino acid sequences, we have constructed a small library of cationic isoleucine‐rich peptides for antimicrobial evaluation. Relative to the parent PSMs, peptide zp3 (GIIAGIIIKIKK‐NH2) was found to possess greatly improved physicochemical properties (soluble in water) and antibacterial activity (MIC=8 μm for E. coli, B. subtilis, and C. freundii) while maintaining low hemolytic activity (<5 % at 256 μm) and cytotoxicity (HEK293 cells IC50>80 μm). We reasoned that the selective activity of zp3 toward bacterial cells is due to its amphiphilic nature and positive net charge. Moreover, it is difficult for bacteria to develop resistance against zp3. Through microscopic studies of E. coli, we demonstrated that zp3 can penetrate the bacterial membrane, thereby causing leakage of the bacterial cytoplasm. Our findings present a promising antimicrobial peptide lead, which has great potential for further chemical modification.
Discovery of Novel Biased Opioid Receptor Ligands through Structure‐Based Pharmacophore Virtual Screening and Experiment
Authors: Jeong Pyeonghwa , Kim Soo‐Kyung , Li Quanjie , Oh Su‐jin , Son Seonil , Chen Guangju , Tan Hongwei , Kim Siwon , Park Jong‐Hyun , Park Ki Duk , Kim Yeo Ok , Yoon Myung Ha , Kim Yong‐Chul , Goddard William A.
Published: July 2019

Gi‐protein‐biased agonists with minimal β‐arrestin recruitment represent opportunities to overcome the serious adverse effects of human mu opioid receptor (μ‐OR) agonists and developing alternative and safe treatments for pain. In order to discover novel non‐morphinan opioid receptor agonists, we applied hierarchical virtual screening of our in‐house database against a pharmacophore based on modeling the active conformations of opioid receptors. We discovered an initial hit compound, a novel μ‐OR agonist with a pyrazoloisoquinoline scaffold. We applied computational R‐group screening to this compound and synthesized 14 derivatives predicted to be the best. Of these, a new Gi‐protein‐biased compound, 1‐{5‐(3‐chlorophenyl)‐7,8‐dimethoxy‐3‐[4‐(methylsulfonyl)benzyl]‐3H‐pyrazolo[3,4‐c]isoquinolin‐1‐yl}‐N,N‐dimethylmethanamine, showed an EC50 value of 179 nm against the μ‐OR. This resulted in significant pain relief for mice in the phase II period of formalin response tests. This study provides a new strategy to identify diverse sets of promising compounds that might prove useful for the development of drugs that target other G‐protein‐coupled receptors.
Assessing the application of an image color appearance model to basic self‐luminous scenes
Authors: Phung Thanh Hang , Leloup Frédéric B. , Smet Kevin A. G. , Hanselaer Peter
Published: July 2019

Image color appearance models (Image CAMs) have been developed to predict the perception of complex scenes and are mainly used for image rendering and video reproduction applications. Among these Image CAMs, iCAM is an Image CAM that takes an image as the input and provides the perceptual attributes for each pixel. On the other hand, nonimaging CAMs are widely used and validated, but they always assume a simple test scene of a uniform flat stimulus, a quasi‐neutral background, and a surround. This study presents an evaluation of the performance of iCAM when applied to these simple self‐luminous scenes in predicting the influence of background luminance, background size, saturation, and stimulus size on stimulus brightness. The results show that iCAM is capable of predicting the effect of background luminance and some background size scenarios. However, for unrelated self‐luminous stimuli (dark background), the model predictions do not match the reference data. An evaluation of the effect of the filter kernel size and its relation to the physiological mechanism of image processing inside the visual system has been investigated. Furthermore, the impact of saturation and stimulus size on brightness seems to be underestimated by the model, because the Helmholtz‐Kohlrausch and stimulus size effects are not included. Hence, these findings call for an enhanced Image CAM.
Direct Epiperimetric Inequalities for the Thin Obstacle Problem and Applications
Authors: Colombo Maria , Spolaor Luca , Velichkov Bozhidar
Published: July 2019

We introduce a new logarithmic epiperimetric inequality for the 2m‐Weiss energy in any dimension, and we recover with a simple direct approach the usual epiperimetric inequality for the 3/2‐Weiss energy. In particular, even in the latter case, unlike the classical statements, we do not assume any a priori closeness to a special class of homogeneous functions. In dimension 2, we also prove for the first time the classical epiperimetric inequality for the (2m − 1/2)‐Weiss energy, thus covering all the admissible energies.

As a first application, we classify the global λ‐homogeneous minimizers of the thin obstacle problem, with , showing as a consequence that the frequencies 3/2 and 2m are isolated and thus improving on the previously known results. Moreover, we give an example of a new family of (2m − 1/2)‐homogeneous minimizers in dimension higher than 2.

Second, we give a short and self‐contained proof of the regularity of the free boundary of the thin obstacle problem, previously obtained by Athanasopoulos, Caffarelli, and Salsa (2008) for regular points and Garofalo and Petrosyan (2009) for singular points. In particular, we improve the C1 regularity of the singular set with frequency 2m by an explicit logarithmic modulus of continuity. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A SDN‐based fine‐grained measurement and modeling approach to vehicular communication network traffic
Authors: Huo Liuwei , Jiang Dingde , Zhu Xiangnan , Wang Yuqing , Lv Zhihan , Singh Surjit
Published: July 2019

In smart cities, a large number of vehicles are connected into an intelligent transportation system and share information via the vehicular communication network (VCN). Accurate, fine‐grained, and comprehensive traffic measurements are very crucial for the controller's decision making in software‐defined networking (SDN) in VCN. Fine‐grained traffic measurements can accurately portray network behaviors for VCN. However, this will increase a large amount of measurement overhead. Therefore, how to effectively obtain accurate and fine‐grained traffic is a huge challenge for VCN. To the end, this paper proposes a novel accurate and SDN‐based fine‐grained traffic measurement approach to obtain comprehensive traffic in VCN. Firstly, based on SDN architecture, we exploit the pull‐based sampling mechanism to quickly obtain coarse‐grained traffic measurement values. Secondly, based on the matrix completion theory, we use both interpolation and optimization methods to obtain fine‐grained traffic measurements. Thirdly, the optimization model and detailed algorithm are proposed to attain accurate traffic. Finally, we conduct a larger number of simulations to validate the measurement approach proposed in this paper. Simulation results show that our approach exhibits better performance and is promising.
A directly seeking spectrum holes algorithm by compressive sampling
Authors: Zhao Hua , Wang Sheng , Li Lemin
Published: July 2019

The method of cognitive radio (CR) is a promising solution to the problem of spectrum scarcity. One of the crucial tasks in the CR is the spectrum hole (SH) detection. The energy detection (ED) method is the most dominant spectrum sensing approach owing to its low computational complexity and the ability to identify SHs without requiring a priori knowledge of primary transmission characteristics. But it will be accompanied by some problems such as the high sampling rates, the difficult setting for detection threshold, and the complexity. An improved algorithm with directly seeking SHs from compressive sampling via compressive sensing algorithm is proposed in this paper. The sampling rate is decreased by the process of the compressive sampling, and the computation complexity is reduced for the elimination of the construction stage in the proposed algorithm. Besides, the detection threshold is not needed to be set for the method of relative comparison. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has a similar probability of detection (POD) of SHs to the traditional ED algorithm and the compressive spectrum sensing algorithm with minimum sampling numbers and lower computation complexity on the condition that the signal noise ratio is beyond 0 dB. It means the proposed algorithm obtains the balance between computing complexity and the sampling rate, and the performance of SH detection is maintained at the same time.
Modified‐release oral pellets for duodenum delivery of doxycycline hyclate
Authors: Huang Ying , Huang Zhengwei , Wu Mingjun , Liu Yanpeng , Ma Cheng , Zhang Xuejuan , Zhao Ziyu , Bai Xuequn , Liu Hu , Wang Lili , Pan Xin , Wu Chuanbin
Published: July 2019

To minimize the gastric and esophageal injury effect, a system to deliver doxycycline hyclate (DOXY) to the duodenum area is needed. DOXY‐containing modified‐release oral pellets (DMOP) coated with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate HP‐55 (HPMCP HP‐55) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose E15 (HPMC E15) appear to be a reasonable choice. This coating layer dissolves at pH 5.5, which is the pH of the duodenum, but not at a gastric pH (1.2). The formulation and preparation of DMOP were optimized, and a scale‐up test was performed. The results showed that the production reproducibility was acceptable, and the quality of DMOP well met the standards of Chinese Pharmacopeia (Ch.P, 2015 edition). Notably, the accumulated DOXY release was lower than 50% at pH 1.2 (20 min) and higher than 85% at pH 5.5, which met the USP40‐NF35 standard for DOXY modified‐release formulations. Moreover, the storage stability of DMOP with different packages was investigated by stress testing, accelerated and long‐term testings. The stability of DMOP was maintained up to 12 months, in terms of DOXY content and in vitro release behavior. The results seem to suggest that DMOP could be a promising duodenum delivery system.
Nonconsumptive effects of hunting on a nontarget game bird
Authors: Mohlman Jessica L. , Gardner Rachel R. , Parnell I. B. , Wilhite Nathan G. , Martin James A.
Published: July 2019

Human hunting activity and disturbance can significantly impact prey species through both consumptive and nonconsumptive effects. The nonconsumptive effects of rabbit hunting on Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus; hereafter, bobwhite) are currently unknown. Increased perceived risk of predation by bobwhite during rabbit hunting events may elicit antipredator responses among bobwhite that impact fitness via changes in behavior that ultimately impact population growth.

We estimated the nonconsumptive effects of rabbit hunting on bobwhite behavior using telemetry across varying rabbit hunting intensities. Movements were analyzed using Bayesian hierarchical modeling with a before‐after‐control‐impact (BACI) design to determine the effect of rabbit hunting on bobwhite.

We observed an overall reduction in bobwhite movement in the presence of rabbit hunting, with a 38% (Posterior Overlap = 0.01) increase in bobwhite step length in the absence of rabbit hunting. We also observed bobwhite maintaining closer proximity to hardwood and escape cover under high rabbit hunting intensity, with a 59% (Posterior Overlap = 0.03) increase in distance from hardwood and a 28% (Posterior Overlap = 0.14) increase in distance from escape cover when rabbit hunting was removed.

Synthesis and applications. Heightened antipredator behavior through decreased movement may assist with bobwhite predator avoidance. However, decreased movement and increased use of poor habitats may also have negative effects as a result of reduced foraging time or increased susceptibility to other predators. Future research should attempt to quantify the effect of decreased movement on bobwhite fitness through the evaluation of foraging time and survival in order to continue to improve management efforts for the species.
The economic burden of heart failure in Denmark from 1998 to 2016
Authors: Bundgaard Johan S. , Mogensen Ulrik M. , Christensen Stefan , Ploug Uffe , Rørth Rasmus , Ibsen Rikke , Kjellberg Jakob , Køber Lars
Published: July 2019

Background

Heart failure (HF) imposes a large burden on both the individual and the society. The aim of this study was to investigate the economic burden (either direct or indirect costs) attributed to patients with HF before, at, and after time of diagnosis.

Methods and results

Using Danish nationwide registries we identified all patients > 18 years with a first‐time diagnosis of HF from 1998–2016 and matched them 1:1 with a control group from the background population on age, gender, marital status, and educational level. The economic analysis of the total costs after diagnosis was based on direct costs including hospitalization, procedures, medication, and indirect costs including social welfare and lost productivity to estimate the annual cost of HF. A total of 176 067 HF patients with a median age of 76 (interquartile range 67–84) years and 55% male were included. Patients with HF incurred an average of €17 039 in total annual direct (€11 926) and indirect (€5113) healthcare costs peaking at year of diagnosis compared to €5936 in the control group with the majority attributable to inpatient admissions. The total annual net costs including public transfer after index HF were €11 957 higher in patients with HF compared to controls and the economic consequences were evident more than 2 years prior to the diagnosis of HF.

Conclusion

Patients with HF impose significantly higher total annual healthcare costs compared to a matched control group with findings evident more than 2 years prior to HF diagnosis.