bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ON THE EULER CHARACTERISTIC OF THE SPACE SATISFYING CONDITION (T**)
Authors: HAN SANG-EON
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we prove some results on the Euler characteristic number of a locally nilpotent space and a space satisfying condition (T**).
THEORY OF DIFFERENTIAL INEQUALITIES ASSOCIATED WITH $n$th ORDER NONLINEAR DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS AND THEIR APPLICATIONS TO THREE POINT BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS
Authors: MURTHY K. N. , RAO C. V.
Published: May 2021

Differential inequalities are used as a tool to establish uniqueness of solutions to three point boundary value problems associated with nth order nonlinear differential equations.
ON BOREL DIRECTION CONCERNING SMALL FUNCTIONS
Authors: CHERN T. Y. PETER
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we shall prove Theorem 1

Let $f$ be nonconstant meromorphic  in $\mathbb{C}$ with finite positive order $\lambda$, $\lambda(r)$ be a proximate order of $f$ and $U(r, f)=r^{\lambda(r)}$, then for each number $\alpha$,$0<\alpha<\pi/2$, there exists a number $\phi_0$ with $0\le \phi_0 < 2\pi$ such that the inequality

\[ \limsup_{r\to\infty}\sum_{i=1}^3 n(r, \phi_0, \alpha, f=a_i(z))/U(r, f)>0,\]

holds for any three distinct meromorphic function $a_i(z)(i=1, 2, 3)$ with $T(r,a_i)=o(U(r, f))$ as $r\to\infty$.
Gallstone Frequency in Patients with Helicobacter pylori Gastritis
Authors: Eslami Behnaz , Iranshahi Majid , Gachkar Latif , Hadavand Fahimeh
Published: May 2021

Background: Identification of the causes of gallstone would result in better planning for the prevention of this disease. One of the proposed risk factors for this problem is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence rate of gallstone in patients with H. pylori gastritis. Methods: This was an observational study performed as a descriptive-comparative cross-sectional survey. We enrolled 169 consecutive patients with H. pylori gastritis admitted to Imam-Hossein Hospital, Tehran, Iran, in 2018, and gallstone frequency in them was determined and compared with other variables. Results: Overall, 14 (8.3%) patients had gallstone, and all the patients had H. pylori gastritis. There was no significant association between gallstone and H. pylori gastritis (P = 0.561). Conclusions: It may be concluded that gallstone frequency in patients with H. pylori gastritis is low, and there is no significant association between these two conditions.
How we entered the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Tabaković Jorgovanka
Published: May 2021

The paper aims to point out the strength and effects of the shock of the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on the global and domestic economy. Effects differ depending on the characteristics of individual economies and the response of economic policy makers. The crisis called "the great lockdown" features: 1) suspension of activity in some sectors and huge declines in others, with pronounced asymmetry and 2) implementation of robust packages of monetary and fiscal policy measures. The paper focuses on the measures adopted in Serbia to mitigate the negative effects of the pandemic on the domestic economy. It elaborates on the temporary measures adopted by the National Bank of Serbia (NBS), which helped preserve stability in the foreign exchange market, ensured efficient functioning of the money market, liquidity support to all sectors and more favourable financing conditions, sustained credit activity and supported the domestic real sector. According to our estimate, if the monetary and fiscal policy measures had not been adopted, the fall in Serbia's economic activity in 2020 would have exceeded 6%, while growth in 2021 would be modest, failing to reach the pre-pandemic growth dynamics even in the medium term. The adoption and implementation of the robust package of measures was possible because Serbia faced the crisis in a good macroeconomic and fiscal position owing to the strengthened economy and implementation of structural reforms in the past period. In fact, Serbia can serve as the example of a country confirming the importance of strengthening the economy on sustainable grounds in the past eight years, which created room for the adoption of comprehensive economic measures to support citizens and businesses, in order to preserve production capacities and jobs.
Expansion of direct investment and resilience of Serbian labour market: A regional and sectoral perspective
Authors: Arandarenko Mihail , Aleksić Dragan , Lončar Dragan
Published: May 2021

In recent years, Serbia has established itself as a leading destination for FDI thanks to its generous policy aimed at attracting direct investment. In this paper we look at the labour market effects of the policy of incentivised direct investment, first from a sectoral and regional perspective, and then by taking a holistic view at its impact on the overall labour market and economic development. We find that this policy has contributed to overall sectoral rebalancing of the labour market by increasing manufacturing jobs. It has also contributed to regional labour market rebalancing, most notably in improving the quality of employment in less developed regions and in stabilizing the shares of regional wage funds. Still, labour market, educational and infrastructure cleavages between regions remain very large. The transformational potential of Serbian labour market is far from being fully exploited, and Serbia still needs to sustain high level of investment in manufacturing jobs while at the same time supporting the gradual shift toward high-technology investment.
The relationship of generation Z with religion
Authors: Vukojević Bojana
Published: May 2021

In recent years, there has been an increased interest in research into religiosity of different generations, especially Millenials. In this paper, we will examine the relationship of Generation Z to religion. As the most numerous population, characterised by insecurity and concern for the socio-economic and security aspects of the world in which we live, by digital mediation and socialisation accompanied by the availability of the Internet, by racial and ethnic diversity, and by supporting individual freedom and sexual amorphousness, they are the first post-Christian generation as well, shaping the world like no other generation to this day. Given the aforementioned, the subject of our research is the religious and spiritual values that this generation cultivates. The paper uses secondary data derived from the Pew Research Center research, as well as studies based on qualitative and quantitative research comparing different generation cohorts. The paper consists of three parts, with the first part presenting the sociological characteristics of Generation Z, the second one explaining the popular concepts of modern religiosity together with the respective pieces of criticism, and the final one observing Generation Z as representatives of the post-Christian world. Considering the overall social transformation that accompanies this generation, in conclusion we find that Generation Z treats religion and elements of religion as trends, that there is a search for 'religious shortcuts', i.e. that it channels its spirituality through rituals and ceremonies that meet their current needs and are not necessarily related to one religion.
Post-socialists transformation and changes of value orientations: Economic liberalism and market fundamentalism
Authors: Janković Aleksandar
Published: May 2021

The aim of this paper is to investigate the intensity and dispersion of value orientations of economic liberalism and market fundamentalism among young people in Bosnia and Herzegovina on two historic occasions - in the period immediately before the collapse of the Communist social order (1989) and in the period of post-Communist transformation, more precisely over the period of consolidating the neoliberal pattern of economic regulation following the impact of financial and economic crisis (2012). An analysis of empirical data will discover to what extent social consciousness, expressed in the form of value orientations, follows structural social changes that take place due to the establishing of neoliberal model of capitalistic regulation. In terms of theoretical background, the analysis relies on the theory of value-normative dissonance. The analysis of empirical data is executed by means of result comparison method of value orientations sum scales where such an analysis is possible, while in other cases a simpler method of pattern descriptive analysis is performed, along with comparison of individual items. The data used was collected in the respective survey entitled 'Social Structure and Quality of Life', conducted in 1989 in all the republics of the former Yugoslavia, and 'Value Orientation and Attitude Towards Social Changes', conducted in 2012 in the Doboj region of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Application of VPPs to Practical Sailing Problems
Authors: Kirkman Kart L.
Published: May 2021

The velocity prediction program, VPP, appeared on the yachting scene about ten years ago and it now dominates design and sailing. Originally implemented as a handicapping tool under the Measurement Handicap System, now accepted internationally as IMS, it has seen widespread acceptance for many other uses, from design to tuning and racing.

This capability means that it is productive, even necessary, for the typical sailor interested in good performance to understand how to apply a VPP to his activities. To do so requires an appreciation of how a VPP functions and how it is applied to practical sailing problems, such as sail selection or tactics.

The paper presents a review of VPP fundamentals and then treats the following applications:

- Sail selection and strategy for offshore yachts.

- Tuning and optimization of all boats.

It is the goal of the paper to impart a working understand­ing of the VPP to many sailors so that they can take advantage of the technology in their normal activities.
The Interpretation of Results from Tank Tests on 12M Yachts
Authors: Campbell Ian , Claughton Andrew
Published: May 2021

Current Wolfson Unit tank test techniques are described and results presented that demonstrate how reliable data can be obtained from yacht models using simple equipment and measurement systems. The results presented are from models of 12m Yachts tested at both 1:10 and 1:4 scale. The correlation with full scale performance is shown for a 12m Yacht with a conventional keel. The induced and heeled components of resistance, obtained from tests at both scales, are compared for both the conventional and a winged keel. The interpretation of various characteristics in the tank data and the use of flow visualisation and measurement techniques are discussed. Scaling problems are considered and also shown is the influence of sail coefficients on the performance prediction for a 12m Yacht.
Quality Improvement Projects and Clinical Research Studies
Authors: Faiman, PhD, MSN, APRN-BC, AOCN®, FAAN Beth
Published: May 2021

Editor-in-Chief Beth Faiman celebrates the contributions of advanced practitioners in quality improvement projects and clinical research studies, and compares the characteristics of each type of study.
Irreligiøsitet, kristendom og levet kulturreligion
Authors: Mauritsen Anne Lundahl
Published: May 2021

Forskning i irreligiøsitet (non-religion, sekularisering, ateisme etc.) vinder stadigt frem. Begrebet ‘det skandinaviske paradoks’ betegner det tilsyneladende modstridende faktum, at skandinaver forbliver medlemmer af deres nationale kirker, men i stadigt højere grad selv-identificerer som irreligiøse. Jeg introducerer til den hidtidige forskning begået i relation til henholdsvis irreligion og kulturreligion og argumenterer for, at vi mangler mere empiri for at kvalificere vores forståelse af disse fænomener. Jeg præsenterer derefter data fra en samling af 30 kvalitative interviews gennemført i Danmark som del af et forskningsprojekt, der delvist udbedrer manglen på data. Baseret på eksplorative analyser er det mit ønske at åbne for en debat omkring, hvordan vi opfatter og konceptualiserer irreligion, kristendom og kulturreligion i en moderne dansk kontekst. Jeg foreslår at vi, i stedet for at karakterisere individer ved hjælp af adskilte, fastforhandlede kategorier (som eksempelvis religiøs kontra irreligiøs), arbejder ud fra en forståelse af sådanne kategorier som mere dynamiske og kontekst-afhængige snarere end statiske og gensidigt udelukkende. Moderne tilgange til religion og irreligion har stadigt mere fokus på, hvordan (ir)religiøse identiteter, overbevisninger og praksisser er skiftende og situerede. Inspireret af disse tilgange argumenterer jeg for, at informanterne bevæger sig mellem forskellige identiteter afhængigt af, hvorvidt de eksempelvis udtrykker en individuel, irreligiøs identitet eller deltager i en kollektiv, kristen identitet og videre, at det er kombinationen af og muligheden for at oscillere mellem disse identiteter, vi kan betegne som kulturreligion og mere specifikt kulturkristendom i Danmark.
‘COMeIN’: una década en 10 imágenes
Authors: Lalueza Ferran
Published: May 2021

Este mes de mayo, COMeIN cumple su primera década de vida. A lo largo de todo lo que nos queda de 2021, tiempo habrá de conmemorar la efeméride como es debido. De momento, a modo de aperitivo, os invito a compartir un itinerario muy –pero que muy– personal que nos llevará a recorrer la historia de la revista a través de 10 imágenes. ¿Empezamos?
Causas sociales y medios ‘mainstream’
Authors: San Cornelio Gemma
Published: May 2021

En este artículo me gustaría desarrollar un concepto relacionado con dos temas que me han ocupado últimamente: de un lado, una investigación sobre ecoinfluencers en Instagram, realizada con Elisenda Ardèvol y Sandra Martorell; de otro, la programación en televisión de la serie Rocío, contar la verdad para seguir viva, donde nuestra compañera Ana Bernal tiene un papel fundamental en el debate posterior. Ambos hechos tienen en común el mainstream, vinculado a temáticas de gran calado social y actualidad, como la ecología y el feminismo.
The 360° Gaze
Authors: Stiegler Christian
Published: May 2021

A comprehensive study of the pervasive role of immersion and immersive media in postmodern culture, from a humanities and social sciences perspective.

Virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, and other modes of digitally induced immersion herald a major cultural and economic shift in society. Most academic discussions of immersion and immersive media have focused on the technological aspects. In The 360° Gaze, Christian Stiegler takes a humanities and social science approach, emphasizing the human implications of immersive media in postmodern culture. Examining characteristics common to all immersive experiences, he uncovers dominant metaphors, such as the rabbit hole, and prevailing ideologies. He raises fundamental questions about opportunities and risks associated with immersion, as well as the potential effects on individuals, communities, and societies.

Stiegler expands the range of media practices we should consider immersive. Introducing his theoretical framework of “the 360° gaze,” he navigates immersive experiences in literature, film, television, the performing arts, digital games, and immersive technologies. He considers their implications for psychology and reception, as well as their role in cultural industries and digital ecosystems. As he examines the intersections among immersive settings in media and in everyday immersive acts, he reframes such topics as mediation of the self, binge-watching, fandom, extended reality, and artificial intelligence. Immersion, he argues, is key to understanding the role of mass media in postmodern society. Stiegler perceives immersion to be an even more powerful and enduring form of engagement than mediation. Writing as a researcher and storyteller, he provides a guide to rethinking immersion in mediated experiences from the past, to enable us to prepare ourselves for the future.
Analysis of ceRNA networks and identification of potential drug targets for drug-resistant leukemia cell K562/ADR
Authors: Liu Zhaoping , Wang Yanyan , Xu Zhenru , Yuan Shunling , Ou Yanglin , Luo Zeyu , Wen Feng , Liu Jing , Zhang Ji
Published: May 2021

Background

Drug resistance is the main obstacle in the treatment of leukemia. As a member of the competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism, underlying roles of lncRNA are rarely reported in drug-resistant leukemia cells.

Methods

The gene expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs in doxorubicin-resistant K562/ADR and sensitive K562 cells were established by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Expression of differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and DEmRNAs was validated by qRT-PCR. The potential biological functions of DElncRNAs targets were identified by GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses, and the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network was further constructed. K562/ADR cells were transfected with CCDC26 and LINC01515 siRNAs to detect the mRNA levels of GLRX5 and DICER1, respectively. The cell survival rate after transfection was detected by CCK-8 assay.

Results

The ceRNA network was composed of 409 lncRNA-miRNA pairs and 306 miRNA-mRNA pairs based on 67 DElncRNAs, 58 DEmiRNAs and 192 DEmRNAs. Knockdown of CCDC26 and LINC01515 increased the sensitivity of K562/ADR cells to doxorubicin and significantly reduced the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of doxorubicin. Furthermore, knockdown of GLRX5 and DICER1 increased the sensitivity of K562/ADR cells to doxorubicin and significantly reduced the IC50 of doxorubicin.

Conclusions

The ceRNA regulatory networks may play important roles in drug resistance of leukemia cells. CCDC26/miR-140-5p/GLRX5 and LINC01515/miR-425-5p/DICER1 may be potential targets for drug resistance in K562/ADR cells. This study provides a promising strategy to overcome drug resistance and deepens the understanding of the ceRNA regulatory mechanism related to drug resistance in CML cells.
Functional characterization of Lilium lancifolium cold-responsive Zinc Finger Homeodomain (ZFHD) gene in abscisic acid and osmotic stress tolerance
Authors: Yong Yubing , Zhang Yue , Lyu Yingmin
Published: May 2021

Background.

We have previously performed an analysis of the cold-responsive transcriptome in the mature leaves of tiger lily (Lilium lancifolium) by gene co-expression network identification. The results has revealed that a ZFHD gene, notated as encoding zinc finger homeodomain protein, may play an essential regulating role in tiger lily response to cold stress.

Methods.

A further investigation of the ZFHD gene (termed as LlZFHD4) responding to osmotic stresses, including cold, salt, water stresses, and abscisic acid (ABA) was performed in this study. Based on the transcriptome sequences, the coding region and 5′ promoter region of LlZFHD4 were cloned from mature tiger lily leaves. Stress response analysis was performed under continuous 4 °C, NaCl, PEG, and ABA treatments. Functional characterization of LlZFHD4 was conducted in transgenic Arabidopsis, tobacco, and yeast.

Results.

LlZFHD4 encodes a nuclear-localized protein consisting of 180 amino acids. The N-terminal region of LlZFHD4 has transcriptional activation activity in yeast. The 4 °C, NaCl, PEG, and ABA treatments induced the expression of LlZFHD4. Several stress- or hormone-responsive cis-acting regulatory elements (T-Box, BoxI. and ARF) and binding sites of transcription factors (MYC, DRE and W-box) were found in the core promoter region (789 bp) of LlZFHD4. Also, the GUS gene driven by LlZFHD4 promoter was up-regulated by cold, NaCl, water stresses, and ABA in Arabidopsis. Overexpression of LlZFHD4 improved cold and drought tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis; higher survival rate and better osmotic adjustment capacity were observed in LlZFHD4 transgenic plants compared to wild type (WT) plants under 4 °C and PEG conditions. However, LlZFHD4 transgenic plants were less tolerant to salinity and more hypersensitive to ABA compared to WT plants. The transcript levels of stress- and ABA-responsive genes were much more up-regulated in LlZFHD4 transgenic Arabidopsis than WT. These results indicate LlZFHD4 is involved in ABA signaling pathway and plays a crucial role in regulating the response of tiger lily to cold, salt and water stresses.
Occurrences and AntibiogramPattern of Listeria monocytogenes in Vegetables Sold withinSokotoMetropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Mumuney KafilatTemitope , Abdullateef Abdulrahman , Bala Auwalu
Published: May 2021

Listeriosisranks third in mortality among food-borne bacterial pathogens. The evaluation of antibiogram of Listeria monocytogenes in 5 different areas within Sokoto metropolis was performed in the study. A total of 50 (fifty) samples from cabbage, spring onion, tomatoes, lettuce, and salad samples were obtained from different locations within the metropolis. The isolation was performed using Listeria selective media base incorporated with Listeria selective Supplement. Identification and confirmation of Listeria and other bacteria were performed using biochemical characterization. Antibacterial sensitivity test was performed using 8 (eight) different antibiotics namely Norfloxacin, Ceftazaime, Cefuroxine, Erythromycin, Ofloxacin, Augmentin, Cloxillicin and Gentamycin. Result of the studies demonstrated that Listeria monocytogeneswas present in all the vegetables sold within the selected areas of Sokoto metropolis. Listeria monocytogenes was resistant to 6 of the 8 antibiotics used, these are Norflaxcin, Augmentin, Cefuroxine, Ceftazaime, Gentamycin and Cloxicillin. In conclusion, Listeria monocytogenes is present in vegetable sold within the selected areas of study. Listeria monocytogenes were resistant to multiple antibiotics commonly administered during listeriosis management. The implication of multi-drug resistance is that Listeriosis will be problematic to treat. The implications of these findings are herein discussed.
Prevalence of Malaria at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Mumbai, India
Authors: Das Rashmita , Patil Shilpa , Balakrishnan Kavita , Bhagat Chaitali , Subramanian Arunagiri , Warke Rajas , Chowdhary Abhay
Published: May 2021

Background: Malaria is caused by parasites of genus Plasmodium. It remains a major public health concern around the world. Though various diagnostic tools are available, there is an urgent need to use a more sensitive diagnostic method for early diagnosis to prevent unwanted outcomes.

Objectives: (i) To assess the prevalence of malaria in a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai (ii) To detect and speciate Plasmodium by Peripheral Blood Smear (PBS), Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) and real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and to compare their performance characteristics.

Methodology: A hospital-based diagnostic study was carried over a period of 18 months. A total of 550 non-duplicated blood samples from clinically suspected cases of malaria were collected and subjected to three tests- PBS by Field’s staining, RDT and PCR to detect Plasmodium species. The agreement and the differences between the three tests were analyzed and the statistical significance was assessed using Chi-square test.

Results: Out of the 550 samples, 166 (30.2%) were positive for malaria by either of the three tests, of which 92 (55.42%), 119 (71.69%) and 161 (96.99%) samples were positive by PBS, RDT and PCR, respectively. P. vivax was the predominant Plasmodium species. The most significant finding was PCR detected mixed infections in 8.43% of cases whereas PBS and RDT could detect 0% and 1.20% of mixed infection, respectively. Considering PBS as gold standard, sensitivity of RDT and PCR was 100% and 97.83% and specificity was 94.10% and 84.50% respectively.

Conclusions: In this study, 30% of the population was infected with malaria with P. vivax being the predominant Plasmodium species. PCR helped identify more mono and mixed infections than conventional methods and would be a helpful adjunct for malaria diagnosis in tertiary care setup.
Design and In silico Studies of 2,5-Disubstituted 1,2,4-Triazole and 1,3,4-Thiadiazole Derivatives as Pteridine Reductase 1 Inhibitors
Authors: Phadke Shraddha , Pathak Devender , Somani Rakesh
Published: May 2021

Aims: Design and in silico studies of 2,5-disubstituted triazole and thiadiazole derivatives as Pteridine Reductase 1 inhibitors. With a view to develop effective agents against Leishmaniasis, 2-substituted-5-[(1H-benzimidazol-2yl) methyl] azole derivatives (A1-A12) were designed against the target enzyme Pteridine reductase 1.

Methodology: The series was designed by targeting Pteridine reductase 1 which is an enzyme responsible for folate and pterin metabolism. Based on thorough study of the enzyme structure and structural features of ligands required for optimum interaction with the enzyme, a series of 12 compounds consisting of 2,5-disubstituted 1,2,4-triazole and 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives was designed. In silico studies were carried out which included docking studies (using V Life software) to understand binding of the compounds with enzyme PTR1, ADMET studies, drug likeness studies for physicochemical properties and bioactivity studies to understand the possible mechanism of action of the compounds. These studies were undertaken using online softwares, molinspiration and admetSAR web servers.

Results: Compounds A10 and A12 gave the best docking scores of -59.9765 and -60.4373 respectively that were close to dihydrobiopterin (original substrate). All the compounds complied with Lipinski’s rule of five. Most of the compounds displayed favorable ADMET properties.

Conclusion: The 2,5-disubstituted 1,2,4-triazole and 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives exhibited good binding affinity for PTR1 enzyme (PDB code: 1E92). The docking scores indicated that enzyme binding may be governed by the nature and size of the substituents on the azole ring. The compounds display well-defined drug-like and pharmacokinetic properties based on Lipinski’s rule of five with additional physicochemical and ADMET parameters. Bioactivity studies suggested the possible drug mechanism as enzyme inhibition. Hence, this study provides evidence for consideration of valuable ligands in 2,5-disubstituted 1,2,4-triazole and 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives as potential pteridine reductase 1 inhibitor and further in vitro and in vivo investigations may prove its therapeutic potential.
Antitumor Activity of Turnera subulata Sm. (Turneraceae) in Hep G2 Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Sri P. Sri Bala Jeya Krishna , Kumar M. Praveen , Padmavathy S.
Published: May 2021

Turnera subulata are bright common garden flowers that are grown in Asian regions. Mostly flowers of several kinds have medicinal properties and applications. This is as one of a kind that contains compounds that has medicinal application. The present studies are targeted to investigate the phytochemical composition through GC-MS technique, antimicrobial activity and antitumor activity via MTT assay against Hep G2 (or HepG2), a human liver cancer cell line. Ethanol (EtOH) extracts has reasonable antitumor activity against Hep G2 for period of 24 h and 48 h and the aqueous part was non-reactive. From gas chromatography‑mass spectrometry (GC-MS), a sum of 27 identified natural compounds exhibiting against cancer cell. Some traces of flavouring agents and antifungal agent with very low GC-MS peak lengths are too observed furaneol (2,4-Dihydroxy-2,5-dimethyl-3(2H)-furan-3-one), benzeneacetaldehyde, benzoic acid and undecanoic acid. Hence, the result that indicates the flavouring agents including flavonoids along with phenolic and other acidic compounds have important characteristic property in reducing and treating against cancer cells.
Clinical Manifestations and Long‐Term Outcomes of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis in North America
Authors: Doubelt Irena , Cuthbertson David , Carette Simon , Chung Sharon A. , Forbess Lindsy J. , Khalidi Nader A. , Koening Curry L. , Langford Carol , McAlear Carol A. , Moreland Larry W. , Monach Paul A. , Seo Philip , Specks Ulrich , Spiera Robert F. , Springer Jason M. , Sreih Antoine G. , Warrington Kenneth J. , Merkel Peter A. , Pagnoux Christian ,   the Vasculitis Clinical Research Consortium
Published: May 2021

Objective

To describe clinical manifestations and outcomes in patients with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) in North America.

Methods

Analysis of patients aged 18 years or older who fulfilled the 1990 American College of Rheumatology Classification Criteria for EGPA enrolled in the Vasculitis Clinical Research Consortium from 2003 to 2019. Main clinical characteristics, treatments, outcomes, and accumulated damage were studied.

Results

The cohort included 354 patients; 59% female; age at diagnosis of 50.0 (±14) years; 39% were antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody (ANCA) positive. Time from diagnosis to last follow‐up was 7.0 (±6.2) years; 49.4% had one or more relapse. Patients positive for ANCA more commonly had neurological and kidney involvement when compared with patients negative for ANCA, who had more cardiac and lung manifestations. At last study visit, only 35 (12.6%) patients had been off all therapy for more than 2 years during their follow‐up. The overall mortality rate was 4.0% and did not differ by ANCA status or cyclophosphamide use. Scores on the Vasculitis Damage Index (VDI) for 134 patients with two or more visits and more than 1 year of follow‐up increased from 1.7 (±1.8) at enrollment (3.7 [±5.1] years after diagnosis) to 3.35 (±2.1) at last follow‐up (7.5 [±5.8] years after diagnosis), mainly represented by chronic asthma (67.5%), peripheral neuropathy (49.6%), and chronic sinusitis (31.3%). Longer duration of glucocorticoid use and relapse were associated with higher VDI scores.

Conclusion

This analysis describes the many clinical manifestations and varied outcomes of EGPA and highlights the ongoing need to attain more sustained, long‐term remission to limit the accrual of disease‐related damage.
Fabrication Method, Ferromagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Spintronics Devices Based on the Organic‐Based Ferrimagnet Vanadium Tetracyanoethylene
Authors: Bola Jaspal S. , Popli Henna , Stolley Ryan M. , Liu Haoliang , Malissa Hans , Kwon Ohyun , Boehme Christoph , Miller Joel S. , Vardeny Zeev Valy
Published: May 2021

Organic‐based magnetic materials have been used for spintronic device applications as electrodes of spin aligned carriers and spin‐pumping substrates. Their advantages over more traditional inorganic magnets include reduced magnetic damping and lower fabrication costs. Vanadium tetracyanoethylene, V[TCNE]x (x ≈ 2), is an organic‐based ferrimagnet with an above room‐temperature magnetic order temperature (Tc ≈ 400 K). V[TCNE]x has deposition flexibility and can be grown on a variety of substrates via low‐temperature chemical vapor deposition (CVD). A systematic study of V[TCNE]x thin‐film CVD parameters to achieve optimal film quality, reproducibility, and excellent magnetic properties is reported. This is assessed by broadband ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) that shows most narrow linewidth of ≈1.5 Gauss and an extremely low Gilbert damping coefficient. The neat V[TCNE]x films are shown to be efficient spin injectors via spin pumping into an adjacent platinum layer. Also, under an optimized FMR linewidth, the V[TCNE]x films exhibit Fano‐type resonance with a continuum broadband absorption in the microwave range, which can be readily tuned by the microwave frequency.
Metal–Organic‐Framework‐Derived Nanostructures as Multifaceted Electrodes in Metal–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yan Rui , Ma Tian , Cheng Menghao , Tao Xuefeng , Yang Zhao , Ran Fen , Li Shuang , Yin Bo , Cheng Chong , Yang Wei
Published: May 2021

Metal‐sulfur batteries (MSBs) are considered up‐and‐coming future‐generation energy storage systems because of their prominent theoretical energy density. However, the practical applications of MSBs are still hampered by several critical challenges, i.e., the shuttle effects, sluggish redox kinetics, and low conductivity of sulfur species. Recently, benefiting from the high surface area, regulated networks, molecular/atomic‐level reactive sites, the metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs)‐derived nanostructures have emerged as efficient and durable multifaceted electrodes in MSBs. Herein, a timely review is presented on recent advancements in designing MOF‐derived electrodes, including fabricating strategies, composition management, topography control, and electrochemical performance assessment. Particularly, the inherent charge transfer, intrinsic polysulfide immobilization, and catalytic conversion on designing and engineering of MOF nanostructures for efficient MSBs are systematically discussed. In the end, the essence of how MOFs’ nanostructures influence their electrochemical properties in MSBs and conclude the future tendencies regarding the construction of MOF‐derived electrodes in MSBs is exposed. It is believed that this progress review will provide significant experimental/theoretical guidance in designing and understanding the MOF‐derived nanostructures as multifaceted electrodes, thus offering promising orientations for the future development of fast‐kinetic and robust MSBs in broad energy fields.
Pd‐Doped Cellulose Carbon Aerogels for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Ramirez Nathalia , Zámbó Dániel , Sardella Fabiana , Kißling Patrick A. , Schlosser Anja , Graf Rebecca T. , Pluta Denis , Deiana Cristina , Bigall Nadja C.
Published: May 2021

In order to implement a sustainable approach in the development of carbonaceous materials with improved capacitive properties, the development of Pd‐doped cellulose carbon aerogels (CA‐PdX) is presented. Upon introducing Pd nanoparticles to the carbonaceous matrix prior to the gel formation, carbon aerogels with various Pd content are prepared. Physicochemical properties (such as texture, morphology, crystal structure, and surface chemistry) of CA‐PdX are revealed. Additionally, a comparative analysis in their electrochemical properties is performed to shed light on the effect of Pd incorporated into the matrices. It is found that Pd‐doping leads to the significant enhancement of power and energy densities (2.9‐fold and 55‐fold, respectively) compared to those of carbon aerogel without doping (CA‐Blank). The straightforward preparation method as well as the powerful control over the structure and composition pave the way toward the utilization of these hybrid materials in energy storage applications.
Nonlinear Optical Properties of Emerging Nano‐ and Microcrystalline Materials
Authors: Zaręba Jan K. , Nyk Marcin , Samoć Marek
Published: May 2021

The activity in the research on novel optical materials exhibiting nonlinear optical (NLO) properties is surveyed, especially nonlinear absorption, that may be attractive for various applications, including those in optoelectronics, photonics, and biophotonics. The recently introduced concept of “NLO pigments”—insoluble colored materials that can exhibit useful NLO effects—is demonstrated to apply to the multifunctional group of coordination polymers (CPs) and their subgroup of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), which may be applied in their microcrystalline form or as nanoparticles. Nanocrystalline materials such as semiconductor quantum dots or plasmonic particles made of noble metals have been widely studied and their properties have been often reviewed, thus they are not included in this review. On the other hand, studies performed on perovskites are described: materials that appear to have great potential for NLO applications in addition to their well‐known merit in photovoltaics. There is also much activity in the field of low‐dimensional, especially 2D structures of various kinds, and this review covers many examples of such structures, not including the broad topic of carbon nanostructures (graphene, nanotubes etc.) but concentrating on other emerging nonlinear optical materials such as black phosphorus, transition metal dichalcogenides, MXenes, and topological insulators.
Production of Rainbow Colorants by Metabolically Engineered Escherichia coli
Authors: Yang Dongsoo , Park Seon Young , Lee Sang Yup
Published: May 2021

There has been much interest in producing natural colorants to replace synthetic colorants of health concerns. Escherichia coli has been employed to produce natural colorants including carotenoids, indigo, anthocyanins, and violacein. However, production of natural green and navy colorants has not been reported. Many natural products are hydrophobic, which are accumulated inside or on the cell membrane. This causes cell growth limitation and consequently reduces production of target chemicals. Here, integrated membrane engineering strategies are reported for the enhanced production of rainbow colorants—three carotenoids and four violacein derivatives—as representative hydrophobic natural products in E. coli. By integration of systems metabolic engineering, cell morphology engineering, inner‐ and outer‐membrane vesicle formation, and fermentation optimization, production of rainbow colorants are significantly enhanced to 322 mg L–1 of astaxanthin (red), 343 mg L–1 of β‐carotene (orange), 218 mg L–1 of zeaxanthin (yellow), 1.42 g L–1 of proviolacein (green), 0.844 g L–1 of prodeoxyviolacein (blue), 6.19 g L–1 of violacein (navy), and 11.26 g L–1 of deoxyviolacein (purple). The membrane engineering strategies reported here are generally applicable to microbial production of a broader range of hydrophobic natural products, contributing to food, cosmetic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.
The Chemistry and Biological Applications of 3H‐Pyrrolo[2,3‐c]quinolines and Marinoquinolines
Authors: Dias do Espírito Santo Rafael , Capitão Rebeca Monique , Santos Barbosa Patrícia , Simão dos Santos Eric Francisco , Roque Duarte Correia Carlos
Published: May 2021

The heterocyclic 3H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐c]quinoline system and its closely related natural products, the marinoquinolines, have been attracting considerable attention in recent years in view of its interesting chemistry and diverse biological activities. Known since 1924, only in 2006 were the 3H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐c]quinolines associated with the first marinoquinolines isolated from natural sources. Their architecture and biological activities such as antiplasmodial, anti‐proliferative, anti‐bacterial, antifungal, phosphodiesterase and AChE inhibitors, and as ion‐sensing have stimulated the development of new strategies to obtain the natural marinoquinolines and new 3H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐c]quinoline derivatives. This review details the recent synthesis and biological evaluation of natural and unnatural marinoquinolines and its 3H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐c]quinoline core.
Selenium Dioxide Promoted α‐Keto N‐Acylation of Sulfoximines Under Mild Reaction Conditions
Authors: Baranwal Siddharth , Gupta Surabhi , Kandasamy Jeyakumar
Published: May 2021

A practical method for the synthesis of α‐ketoamides of sulfoximines was developed from NH‐sulfoximines and acetophenones using selenium dioxide as an oxidant. The reactions proceeded under mild conditions in the absence of any additives and provided good to excellent yields of α‐keto‐N‐acylsulfoximines. Moreover, the optimized condition was well‐suited to the task of α‐ketoacylation of sulfoximines with phenylacetaldehyde and arylacetylenes. α‐Hydroxy N‐acylsulfoximines were obtained in good yields from α‐keto N‐acylsulfoximines via reduction or Grignard reactions.
Ionische Flüssigkeiten und stark eutektische Lösungsmittel in der anorganischen Synthese
Authors: Zhang Tao , Doert Thomas , Wang Hui , Zhang Suojiang , Ruck Michael
Published: May 2021

Ionische Flüssigkeiten und stark eutektische Lösungsmittel sind für die ressourceneffiziente Synthese anorganischer Materialien von zunehmendem Interesse. Dieser Aufsatz thematisiert die chemischen Reaktionen vielfältiger stark eutektischer Lösungsmittel und verschiedener Typen von ionischen Flüssigkeiten, darunter metallhaltige, [BF4]−‐ oder [PF6]−‐basierte sowie chalkogenhaltige ionische Flüssigkeiten. Dies schließt Beispiele ein, in denen sowohl Kation als auch Anion im Endprodukt enthalten sind. Das Ziel dieses Aufsatzes ist, das Bewusstsein für die chemische Reaktivität von ionischen Flüssigkeiten und stark eutektischen Lösungsmitteln zu erhöhen und einen Leitfaden für ihre sachgerechte Anwendung zu etablieren.
Enzymatic degradability and release properties of graphene oxide/silk fibroin nanocomposite films
Authors: Xu Xiafan , Ren Zilong , Zhang Meiqi , Ma Lin
Published: May 2021

The structure evolution of silk fibroin (SF) in the nanocomposite films with graphene oxide (GO) was investigated and related to the enzymatic degradability and release property. The interaction with GO was found to induce conformation transition of SF from random coil to β‐sheet. However, the surface binding constrained the rearrangement of the silk chains, leading to a decrease of β‐sheet when GO content was more than 1.0%. The crystal structure of SF played a key role in the degradation of GO/SF composites. The preferential degradation of the hydrophilic blocks resulted in a faster degradation of SF films with higher β‐sheet content. The addition of GO to SF matrix led to a slower release and a reduction of the burst release of RhB, the model compound. The release profile was well fitted to the Rigter–Peppas equation, from which the characteristic constant decreased and the diffusional exponent increased with increasing GO content but quickly leveled off when GO content was more than 1.0%. Degradation of the composites had little influence on the characteristic constant of RhB release, however, led to an increased diffusional exponent, which was more evident for the composites with higher β‐sheet content.
Health care fraud classifiers in practice
Authors: Ekin Tahir , Frigau Luca , Conversano Claudio
Published: May 2021

Statistical and machine learning methods have become paramount in order to handle large size claims data as part of health care fraud detection frameworks. Among these, predictive methods such as regression and classification algorithms are widely used with labeled data. However, the imbalanced nature of health care claims data and skewness of fraud distributions result with challenges in practical applications. This paper presents the use of various classification algorithms and data pre‐processing methods on claim payment populations and overpayment scenarios with different characteristics. It can help the health care practitioners evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of these analytical methods, and choose the right classification method and apply them properly for their specific circumstances. We utilize publicly available U.S. Medicare Part B health care claims payment data from the hospitals with a number of fraud label scenarios to demonstrate potential fraud patterns. We discuss the computational demand and accuracy of the methods.
CRISPR/Cas9 in cancer: An attempt to the present trends and future prospects
Authors: Kaligotla Venkata Subrahmanya Anirudh , Jasti Tejaswi , Kandra Prameela
Published: May 2021

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Series of sequential, repeated genetic changes and epigenetic modifications are leading to the formation of tumors. These tumors subsequently causing the infected cells to invade and transform their surrounding cells by metastasis are some hallmarks in cancer. Although tremendous efforts have been extended for structurally characterizing the numerous genomic mutations undergoing in cancer cells, there is a lack of information regarding the functions of many mutated genes. Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic repeats/CRISPR‐associated nuclease 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) has become a robust method for building changes in genome of many organisms. Recent reports have suggested that modification of CRISPR/Cas9 can provide plot form to probe the mechanisms in tumorigenesis and in cancer therapies. This review focuses on the historical perspectives of CRISPR/Cas9. The study highlights the applications and also role in cancer cell genome editing, which is helpful to understand the dynamics. Intense research in progress on mechanism of action of CRISPR/Cas9 has been reviewed and critically discussed. Further, relevant literature on animal models focusing on various approaches has been highlighted to emphasize the therapeutics of CRISPR/Cas9 with current trends and future challenges.
Analysis of filtration behavior using integrated column chromatography followed by virus filtration
Authors: Shirataki Hironobu , Yokoyama Yoshiro , Taniguchi Hiroki , Azeyanagi Miku
Published: May 2021

We evaluated filtration behavior and virus removal capability for a monoclonal antibodies (mAb) and plasma IgG under constant flow rate directly following flow‐through column chromatography in an integrated process. mAb solution with quantified host cell protein (HCP) content processed in flow‐through mode on in‐series mixed‐mode AEX and modified CEX columns connected to the Planova BioEX filter (pool‐less) achieved HCP logarithmic reduction value (LRV) of 2.3 and 93.9% protein recovery, demonstrating comparable or higher HCP LRV with high protein recovery compared to previous reports. For 5–15 mg/ml plasma IgG run to 100 L/m2, similar filtration behavior was achieved for flux of 10–100 LMH, and lower flux runs remained well below the maximum operating pressure, suggesting that higher throughput in continuous processing is achievable. Comparison of fit of plasma IgG and mAb filtration behavior to four blocking models showed little differences but slightly better fit to the cake filtration model. Viral clearance of the filtration step tested by in‐line spiking X‐MuLV or MVM into purified plasma IgG following the chromatography step showed robust removal at low flux. Integrating the Planova BioEX filter into continuous processes with column chromatography can achieve efficient downstream processing with reduced footprint and process time.
A three‐dimensional microenvironment alters CD73 expression in cervical cancer
Authors: Iser Isabele Cristiana , de Andrade Mello Paola , Davies Samuel , de Souza Santos Jacqueline Fraga , Pilger Diogo André , Buffon Andreia , Bertoni Ana Paula Santin , Wink Marcia Rosângela
Published: May 2021

Stem‐like cells (CSCs) have a tumour‐initiating capacity and play critical role in tumour metastasis, relapse and resistance to therapy. The ectoenzyme CD73, encoded by the NT5E gene, which catalyses the hydrolysis of AMP into adenosine, has been associated to an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment, tumour cell adhesion and migration. Therefore, we investigated the expression and activity of CD73 in sphere‐forming cells from cervical cancer in comparison to monolayer cells in vitro. In addition, in silico analysis was performed to determine the expression of CD73 and other members of purinergic signalling in CSC‐like population derived from different tumour types in comparison to monolayer cells. CD73 protein expression levels and functionality in SiHa cells were analysed by flow cytometry and enzymatic assay, respectively. In silico investigation was performed through the analysis of seven datasets from different tumour types using GEO database. In vitro analysis showed a decreased CD73 protein expression and enzymatic activity in cervical spheres, when compared to monolayers. In addition, when sphere‐derived cells are re‐plated as monolayer culture, the CD73 expression and activity are restored. Supporting the in vitro results, in silico analysis showed that three‐dimensional spheres derived from cervical, thyroid and breast cancer presented decreased expression of CD73, when compared to their adherent counterparts. The decreased expression of CD73 in sphere‐derived cells or CSC‐enriched population reinforce its important role in cell adhesion, tumour spreading ability and metastasis, suggesting CD73 as potential target to be further investigated in cervical cancer.
Hemiballismus in hyperglycemia
Authors: Kataja Knight Agnes , Magnusson Peter , Sjöholm Åke
Published: May 2021

Diabetes may cause late complications in the CNS but certain lesions may also occur acutely in hyperglycemia. We describe a case of hyperosmolar non‐ketotic syndrome and reversible hemichoreic dyskinesia with morphological changes in basal ganglia.