bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The moderating role of calling in the work–family interface: Buffering and substitution effects on employee satisfaction
Authors: Nielsen Jordan D. , Thompson Jeffery A. , Wadsworth Lori L. , Vallett Joel D.
Published: July 2020

This research seeks for improved understanding regarding the interaction of meaningful work and the work–family interface. Existing literature suggests that experiencing a sense of calling toward work makes the work domain particularly salient to employees compared to other life domains. In this article, we draw on this idea, rooted in identity theory, to hypothesize that a sense of calling toward work diminishes the effects of work–family conflict and work–family enrichment on employee's job and life satisfaction. We test these ideas in two studies. First, we surveyed an alumni sample of 598 employees from various jobs, industries, and job levels. Then, in a constructive replication, we surveyed 327 employees using a time‐lagged design. Calling was found to significantly buffer the effect of work–family conflict on job satisfaction in Study 2, but not Study 1. Calling did not buffer the effect of conflict on life satisfaction in either study. However, both studies demonstrated that calling attenuated (substituted for) the effect of work–family enrichment on job satisfaction. Study 1 supported the idea that calling attenuates the effect of enrichment on life satisfaction; however, this interactive effect was reversed in Study 2, contrary to expectations. We discuss implications for theory and practice related to callings and career choices, as well as for the role of calling and work identity in the work–family interface.
Effect of combined Bacillomycin D and chitosan on growth of Rhizopus stolonifer and Botrytis cinerea and cherry tomato preservation
Authors: Lin Fuxing , Huang Zhenghua , Chen Yirui , Zhou Libang , Chen Meirong , Sun Jing , Lu Zhaoxin , Lu Yingjian
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Synthetic fungicides are most commonly used for controlling postharvest disease of fruit, although they can cause the emergence of drug‐resistant strains, environmental pollution and fruit safety issues. Bacillomycin D (BD), a novel antifungal lipopeptide, and chitosan (CTS) are applied for the preservation of cherry tomato.

RESULTS

The combination of BD and CTS showed an additive inhibition on the growth of Rhizopus stolonifer and Botrytis cinerea compared to that of its individual compound. In addition, BD + CTS reduced the incidence of soft rot and gray mold in cherry tomato caused by R. stolonifer and B. cinerea, respectively. Tomato treated with BD + CTS exhibited a lower weight loss and higher firmness and higher contents of total soluble solids, titratable acidity and ascorbic acid compared to those treated with sterile water (control). The kinetics models demonstrated that the shelf life of cherry tomato treated with BD + CTS could be extended by approximately 15 days longer than the control.

CONCLUSION

The utilization of BD + CTS provided a novel strategy for reducing postharvest fungal rot and maintaining the storage quality of cherry tomato. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
In vitro digestibility of mountain‐grown irrigated perennial legume, grass and forb forages is influenced by elevated non‐fibrous carbohydrates and plant secondary compounds
Authors: Zhang Yunhua , MacAdam Jennifer W , Villalba Juan J , Dai Xin
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Perennial legumes cultivated under irrigation in the Mountain West USA have non‐fibrous carbohydrate (NFC) concentrations exceeding 400 g kg−1, a level commonly found in concentrate‐based ruminant diets. Our objective was to determine the influence of NFC concentration and plant secondary compounds on in vitro rumen digestion of grass, legume and forb forages compared with digestion of their isolated neutral detergent fiber (NDF) fraction. Forages were composited from ungrazed paddocks of rotationally stocked, irrigated monoculture pastures between May and August 2016, frozen in the field, freeze‐dried, and ground.

RESULTS

The maximum rate (RMax) of gas production was greater for the legumes alfalfa (ALF; Medicago sativa L.) and birdsfoot trefoil (BFT; Lotus corniculatus L.) than for the legume cicer milkvetch (CMV; Astragalus cicer L.) the grass meadow brome (MBG; Bromus riparius Rehm.) and the non‐legume forb small burnet (SMB; Sanguisorba minor Scop.), and intermediate for the legume sainfoin (SNF; Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.). The RMax of isolated NDF was greatest for BFT and CMV, intermediate for ALF, SNF and SMB and least for MBG.

CONCLUSIONS

More than 900 g of organic matter kg−1 dry matter of legumes was digested after 96 h. Across forages, the extent of whole‐plant digestion increased with NFC and crude protein concentrations, decreased with NDF concentrations, and was modulated by secondary compounds. The extent of digestion of isolated NDF decreased with concentration of lignin and residual tannins. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
A fully coupled multiphase model for infrared‐convective drying of sweet potato
Authors: Onwude Daniel I , Hashim Norhashila , Chen Guangnan , Putranto Aditya , Udoenoh Nsikak R
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Combined infrared (CIR) and convective drying is a promising technology in dehydrating heat‐sensitive foods, such as fruits and vegetables. This novel thermal drying method, which involves the application of infrared energy and hot air during a drying process, can drastically enhance energy efficiency and improve overall product quality at the end of the process. Understanding the dynamics of what goes on inside the product during drying is important for further development, optimization, and upscaling of the drying method. In this study, a multiphase porous media model considering liquid water, gases, and solid matrix was developed for the CIR and hot‐air drying (HAD) of sweet potato slices in order to capture the relevant physics and obtain an in‐depth insight on the drying process. The model was simulated using Matlab with user‐friendly graphical user interface for easy coupling and faster computational time.

RESULTS

The gas pressure for CIR‐HAD was higher centrally and decreased gradually towards the surface of the product. This implies that drying force is stronger at the product core than at the product surface. A phase change from liquid water to vapour occurs almost immediately after the start of the drying process for CIR‐HAD. The evaporation rate, as expected, was observed to increase with increased drying time. Evaporation during CIR‐HAD increased with increasing distance from the centreline of the sample surface. The simulation results of water and vapour flux revealed that moisture transport around the surfaces and sides of the sample is as a result of capillary diffusion, binary diffusion, and gas pressure in both the vertical and horizontal directions. The nonuniform dominant infrared heating caused the heterogeneous distribution of product temperature. These results suggest that CIR‐HAD of food occurs in a non‐uniform manner with high vapour and water concentration gradient between the product core and the surface.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides in‐depth insight into the physics and phase changes of food during CIR‐HAD. The multiphase model has the advantage that phase change and impact of CIR‐HAD operating parameters can be swiftly quantified. Such a modelling approach is thereby significant for further development and process optimization of CIR‐HAD towards industrial upscaling. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Aldehyde oxidase assay by capillary electrophoresis: From off‐line, online up to immobilized enzyme reactor
Authors: Huang Shengyun , Celá Andrea , Adams Erwin , Glatz Zdenĕk , Van Schepdael Ann
Published: July 2020

Capillary electrophoresis is a modern separation technique characterized by many benefits, which qualify it also for enzyme assays and the study of enzyme kinetics during drug development. Homogeneous or heterogeneous approaches can be followed for the enzymatic incubation. In this study, an immobilization procedure of aldehyde oxidase on magnetic particles was developed considering their integration with capillary electrophoresis. A number of magnetic nano/microparticle types were tested for this purpose, showing that aldehyde oxidase was most active when immobilized on bare silica magnetic nanoparticles. Primarily, the reusability of the enzyme immobilized on bare silica nanoparticles was tested. Three consecutive incubations with substrate could be performed, but the activity considerably dropped after the first incubation. One reason could be an enzyme detachment from the nanoparticles, but no release was detected neither at 4°C nor at 37°C during 5 h. The drop in enzymatic activity observed in consecutive incubations, could also be due to inactivation of the enzyme over time at given temperature. For the immobilized enzyme stored at 4°C, the activity decreased to 83% after 5 h, in contrast with a steep decrease at 37°C to 37%.
Dexmedetomidine ameliorates postoperative cognitive dysfunction by inhibiting Toll‐like receptor 4 signaling in aged mice
Authors: Zhou Xue‐Yue , Liu Jing , Xu Zhi‐Peng , Fu Qiang , Wang Pei‐Qi , Wang Jing‐Hua , Zhang Hong
Published: July 2020

Our study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms involved in the improvement of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) by dexmedetomidine (DEX). BV2 microglia cells were cultured under normal condition, DEX exposure (0.1 μg/mL), and lipopolysacchride (LPS) treatment (0.1 μg/mL) or with pretreatment of DEX before LPS incubation. For BV2 microglia cells, LPS induced markedly increased release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]‐1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha [TNF‐α]) and expressions of Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), while DEX pretreatment inhibited the LPS‐induced production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and expressions of TLR4 and NF‐κB. The spatial memory function was impaired in the aged mice following partial hepatectomy since the percentage of time spent in the target quadrant and the number of crossings over the former platform location were reduced. Pretreatment of DEX may attenuate neuroinflammation and improve POCD in aged mice through inhibiting the TLR4‐NF‐κB signaling pathway in the hippocampus.
Aberrant X chromosomal rearrangement through multi‐step template switching during sister chromatid formation in a patient with severe hemophilia A
Authors: Tokoro Mahiru , Tamura Shogo , Suzuki Nobuaki , Kakihara Misaki , Hattori Yuna , Odaira Koya , Suzuki Sachiko , Takagi Akira , Katsumi Akira , Hayakawa Fumihiko , Okamoto Shuichi , Suzuki Atsuo , Kanematsu Takeshi , Matsushita Tadashi , Kojima Tetsuhito
Published: July 2020

Background

Hemophilia A (HA) is an X‐linked recessive bleeding disorder caused by pathogenic variants of the coagulation factor VIII gene (F8). Half of the patients with severe HA have a recurrent inversion in the X chromosome, that is, F8 intron 22 or intron 1 inversion. Here, we characterized an abnormal F8 due to atypical complex X chromosome rearrangements in a Japanese patient with severe HA.

Methods

Recurrent F8 inversions were tested with inverse shifting‐PCR. The genomic structure was investigated using PCR‐based direct sequencing or quantitative PCR.

Results

The proband's X chromosome had a 119.5 kb insertion, a reverse duplex of an extragenic sequence on the F8 telomere region into the F8 intron 1 with two breakpoints. The telomeric breakpoint was a joining from the F8 intron 1 to the inverted FUNDC2 via a two‐base microhomology, and the centromeric breakpoint was a recombination between F8 intron 1 homologous sequences. The rearrangement mechanism was suggested as a multi‐step rearrangement with template switching such as fork stalling and template switching (FoSTeS)/microhomology‐mediated break‐induced replication (MMBIR) and/or homologous sequence‐associated recombination during a sister chromatid formation.

Conclusion

We identified the aberrant X chromosome with a split F8 due to a multi‐step rearrangement in a patient with severe HA.
Exercise Training Alters Red Blood Cell Fatty Acid Desaturase Indices and Adipose Tissue Fatty Acid Profile in African Women with Obesity
Authors: Nono Nankam Pamela A. , Mendham Amy E. , van Jaarsveld Paul J. , Adams Kevin , Fortuin‐de Smidt Melony C. , Clamp Louise , Blüher Matthias , Goedecke Julia H.
Published: July 2020

Objective

This study assessed the changes in red blood cell total phospholipid (RBC‐TPL) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) fatty acid (FA) composition in response to 12 weeks of exercise training in South African women with obesity and the associations with changes in cardiometabolic risk factors.

Methods

Previously sedentary women were randomized into control (n = 15) or exercise (n = 20) groups. RBC‐TPL and SAT FA profiles, SAT gene expression, systemic inflammatory markers, liver fat, and insulin sensitivity (SI) were measured before and after the intervention.

Results

Compared with control, exercise training induced decreases in RBC‐TPL dihomo‐γ‐linolenic acid content and stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1 and increased delta‐5 desaturase–estimated activity (P < 0.05). In the combined group, these changes correlated with changes in circulating leptin and TNFα (P < 0.05), as well as lower liver fat (P < 0.01). Exercise training decreased saturated FA (lauric and myristic acids) and increased polyunsaturated FA (eicosadienoic and adrenic acids) (P < 0.05) in abdominal SAT, whereas γ‐linolenic acid decreased (P < 0.01) in gluteal SAT. These changes in RBC‐TPL and SAT FA compositions were not associated with changes in SAT gene expression and SI.

Conclusions

Exercise training alters RBC‐TPL desaturase activities, which correlate with lower liver fat and systemic inflammation but not with the improvement of SI.
Associations of a Panel of Adipokines with Fat Deposits and Metabolic Phenotypes in a General Population
Authors: Fischer Julian , Völzke Henry , Kassubek Jan , Müller Hans‐Peter , Kühn Jens‐Peter , Nauck Matthias , Friedrich Nele , Zylla Stephanie
Published: July 2020

Objective

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the associations of five adipokines (adiponectin, chemerin, galectin‐3, leptin, and resistin) with fat deposits, behavioral risk factors, and metabolic phenotypes.

Methods

Using multivariable linear and logistic regression models, cross‐sectional data from 4,116 participants of the population‐based Study of Health in Pomerania were analyzed.

Results

Participants with obesity showed higher chemerin, galectin‐3, and leptin but showed lower adiponectin concentrations. Independently of other fat compounds, liver fat content, visceral adipose tissue, and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) were inversely associated with adiponectin. Independent positive associations of liver fat content and SAT with chemerin as well as of SAT with galectin‐3 and leptin were observed. Physically inactive participants had higher chemerin and leptin concentrations. Smokers had higher chemerin and galectin‐3 as well as lower leptin. Alcohol consumption was associated with adiponectin (positive) and resistin (inverse). All adipokines were associated with at least one lipid marker. Associations with glucose metabolism were seen for adiponectin, chemerin, galectin‐3, and leptin.

Conclusions

High adiponectin concentrations were related to favorable metabolic conditions, whereas high chemerin, galectin‐3, and leptin were associated with an unfavorable metabolic profile. High leptin seems to be primarily indicative of obesity, whereas high adiponectin and chemerin are associated with a broader range of metabolic phenotypes.
Robust cellulose nanofibrils reinforced poly(methyl methacrylate)/polystyrene binary blend composites with pebble‐shaped structure using Pickering emulsion gel
Authors: He Yingying , Liu Xinyue , Qi Xiaojun , Guan Yupeng , Li Shuai , Liu Hongxia , Zhou Li , Wei Chun , Yu Chuanbai
Published: July 2020

Both poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and polystyrene (PS) have excellent transparency, but a blend of the two typically has low mechanical properties and poor transparency owing to phase separation. Herein, oil‐in‐water Pickering emulsion gel technology was combined with the hot pressing process to prepare cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) reinforced PMMA/PS binary blend composite film materials (CNFs/PMMA/PS). The CNFs/PMMA/PS composites with a pebble‐shaped structure had a unique three‐dimensional crosslinked network structure and endowed the composite film with better thermal stability, and excellent transparency and mechanical properties. Particularly, the derivative thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry results revealed that the compatibility between the PMMA and the PS phases in the composite film is remarkably improved. The optimal tensile strength (58 MPa) and maximum strain (4.2%) were obtained when the content of CNFs was 52%, which represented approximately 3‐fold and 2‐fold improvements, respectively, than those of the PMMA/PS blend films. Moreover, the C‐CNFs/PMMA/PS composite films maintained an excellent light transmittance of approximately 80% in the wavelength range of 600 to 800 nm. The facile preparation method is proposed to achieve an excellent dispersion of unmodified CNFs in hydrophobic and binary polymer mixture, which constitutes a new approach for using CNFs to enhance the high performance of polymer materials.
A simple and efficient Agrobacterium‐mediated transient expression system to dissect molecular processes in Brassica rapa and Brassica napus
Authors: Mooney Brian C. , Graciet Emmanuelle
Published: July 2020

The family Brassicaceae is a source of important crop species, including Brassica napus (oilseed rape), Brassica oleracea, and B. rapa, that is used globally for oil production or as a food source (e.g., pak choi or turnip). However, despite advances in recent years, including genome sequencing, a lack of established tools tailored to the study of Brassica crop species has impeded efforts to understand their molecular processes in greater detail. Here, we describe the use of a simple Agrobacterium‐mediated transient expression system adapted to B. rapa and B. napus that could facilitate study of molecular and biochemical events in these species. We also demonstrate the use of this method to characterize the N‐degron pathway of protein degradation in B. rapa. The N‐degron pathway is a subset of the ubiquitin‐proteasome system and represents a mechanism through which proteins may be targeted for degradation based on the identity of their N‐terminal amino acid residue. Interestingly, N‐degron‐mediated processes in plants have been implicated in the regulation of traits with potential agronomic importance, including the responses to pathogens and to abiotic stresses such as flooding tolerance. The stability of transiently expressed N‐degron reporter proteins in B. rapa indicates that its N‐degron pathway is highly conserved with that of Arabidopsis thaliana. These findings highlight the utility of Agrobacterium‐mediated transient expression in B. rapa and B. napus and establish a framework to investigate the N‐degron pathway and its roles in regulating agronomical traits in these species.

Significance statement

We describe an Agrobacterium‐mediated transient expression system applicable to Brassica crops and demonstrate its utility by identifying the destabilizing residues of the N‐degron pathway in B. rapa. As the N‐degron pathway functions as an integrator of environmental signals, this study could facilitate efforts to improve the robustness of Brassica crops.
Reduced KLK2 expression is a strong and independent predictor of poor prognosis in ERG‐negative prostate cancer
Authors: Bonk Sarah , Kluth Martina , Jansen Kristina , Hube‐Magg Claudia , Makrypidi‐Fraune Georgia , Höflmayer Doris , Weidemann Sören , Möller Katharina , Uhlig Ria , Büscheck Franziska , Luebke Andreas M. , Burandt Eike , Clauditz Till S. , Steurer Stefan , Schlomm Thorsten , Huland Hartwig , Heinzer Hans , Sauter Guido , Simon Ronald , Dum David
Published: July 2020

Background

Kallikrein‐related peptidase 2 (KLK2)—like KLK3 (prostate‐specific antigen [PSA])—belongs to the highly conserved serine proteases of the glandular kallikrein protein family (KLK family). Studies suggested that measurement of KLK2 serum levels advanced the predictive accuracy of PSA testing in prostate cancer.

Methods

To clarify the potential utility of KLK2 as a prognostic tissue biomarker, KLK2 expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry in more than 12 000 prostate cancers.

Results

Normal epithelium cells usually showed weak to moderate KLK2 immunostaining, whereas KLK2 was negative in 23%, weak in 38%, moderate in 35%, and strong in 4% of 9576 analyzable cancers. Lost or reduced KLK2 immunostaining was associated with advanced tumor stage, high Gleason score, lymph node metastasis, increased cell proliferation, positive resection margin, and early PSA recurrence (P < .0001). Comparison with previously analyzed molecular alterations revealed a strong association of KLK2 loss and presence of TMPRSS2:ERG fusion (P < .0001), most of all analyzed common deletions (9 of 11; P ≤ .03), and decreased PSA immunostaining (P < .0001 each). Cancers with combined negative or weak immunostaining of KLK2 and PSA showed worse prognosis than cancers with at least moderate staining of one or both proteins (P < .0001). Multivariate analyses including established preoperative and postoperative prognostic parameters showed a strong independent prognostic impact of KLK2 loss alone or in combination of PSA, especially in erythroblast transformation‐specific‐negative cancers (P ≤ .006).

Conclusions

Loss of KLK2 expression is a potentially useful prognostic marker in prostate cancer. Analysis of KLK2 alone or in combination with PSA may be useful for estimating cancer aggressiveness at the time of biopsy.
Arrhenius Crossover Phenomena and Ionic Conductivity in Ionic Glass‐Forming Liquids
Authors: Aniya Masaru , Ikeda Masahiro
Published: July 2020

Herein, the relation between the Arrhenius crossover (AC) behaviors in the structural relaxation and the electrical conductivity relaxation is explored in terms of the Bond Strength–Coordination Number Fluctuation (BSCNF) model developed by the authors. For the ionic glass‐forming liquids and solution examined, Ca2K3(NO3)7, Ca2Rb3(NO3)7, ZBLAN20 and (LiCl)0.16(H2O)0.84, the electric conductivity at high temperature resembles the behavior of the high‐temperature structural relaxation. This mutual relationship suggests a similar origin of the AC behaviors for both, structural and electrical relaxation. The difference between them is reflected in the different temperatures that demarcate the AC behaviors. The implication of this difference to the occurrence of the high ionic conduction via the decoupling mechanism is discussed in terms of the BSCNF model and the fractional Stokes–Einstein law.
Beyond skill scores: exploring sub‐seasonal forecast value through a case‐study of French month‐ahead energy prediction
Authors: Dorrington Joshua , Finney Isla , Palmer Tim , Weisheimer Antje
Published: July 2020

We quantify the value of sub‐seasonal forecasts for a real‐world prediction problem: the forecasting of French month‐ahead energy demand. Using surface temperature as a predictor, we construct a trading strategy and assess the financial value of using meteorological forecasts, based on actual energy demand and price data. We show that forecasts with lead times greater than two weeks can have value for this application, both on their own and in conjunction with shorter‐range forecasts, especially during boreal winter. We consider a cost/loss framework based on this example, and show that, while it captures the performance of the short‐range forecasts well, it misses the marginal value present in medium‐range forecasts. We also contrast our assessment of forecast value to that given by traditional skill scores, which we show could be misleading if used in isolation. We emphasise the importance of basing assessment of forecast skill on variables actually used by end‐users.
Task allocation and trajectory planning for multiple agents in the presence of obstacle and connectivity constraints with mixed‐integer linear programming
Authors: Afonso Rubens J.M. , Maximo Marcos R.O.A. , Galvão Roberto K.H.
Published: July 2020

This article addresses the problem of maneuvering multiple agents that must visit a number of target sets, while enforcing connectivity constraints and avoiding obstacle as well as interagent collisions. The tool to cope with the problem is a formulation of model predictive control including binary decision variables. In this regard, two mixed‐integer linear programming formulations are presented, considering a trade‐off between optimality and scalability between them. Simulation results are also shown to illustrate the main features of the proposed approaches.
Minor Biomass Particle Size for an Efficient Cellulose Accessibility and Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Fernandes Érika S. , Bueno Danilo , Pagnocca Fernando C. , Brienzo Michel
Published: July 2020

Sugarcane bagasse is a recalcitrance lignocellulosic material with difficult to structure disorganize and it has low cellulose accessibility, negatively influencing the enzymatic saccharification. This study identified the minor particle size that resulted in the efficient diluted acid pretreatment (10 % m/m, 121 °C/30 min) of sugarcane bagasse and a more recalcitrant material, that is external fraction (2 to 3 mm from the extremity, containing epidermis). Particle sizes were obtained by sieving sugarcane bagasse at 16 (1 mm), 24 (0.710 mm), 35 (0.425 mm), 60 (0.250 mm) and <60 mesh (<0.250 mm) on a sieve agitator. The decrease of the particle sizes led to an increase of cellulose accessibility. Both of the samples showed high accessibility after the pretreatment due to the particle size decrease. Accordingly, there was a better enzyme action, what increased the glucose yield with samples lower than 0.425 mm (35 mesh).
The Functionality of Ion Exchange Resins for Esterification, Transesterification and Hydrogenation Reactions
Authors: Osazuwa Osarieme Uyi , Abidin Sumaiya Zainal
Published: July 2020

Ion exchange resins (IER) possess a catalytically flexible structure which enables them to be easily applied for renewable energy production and environmentally friendly reactions. More specifically, they can be used as catalyst or catalyst support in other industrialized processes such as; esterification, transesterification and hydrogenation reactions. Several works on esterification, transesterification and hydrogenation reactions are in literature. This study reviews some of these works which includes the utilization of IER in esterification, transesterification and hydrogenation reactions. Recent reports show that IER are conventionally used as catalyst in esterification and transesterification reactions. For hydrogenation reactions, IER have been utilized as support for metallic catalyst, raising questions on their inability to be applied as catalyst. Hence, this study has itemized these various reactions, detailing their applications which are highly industrialized reaction processes.
COVID‐19: Emergence of Infectious Diseases, Nanotechnology Aspects, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Gupta Akanksha , Kumar Sanjay , Kumar Ravinder , Choudhary Ashish Kumar , Kumari Kamlesh , Singh Prashant , Kumar Vinod
Published: July 2020

Wuhan, a city of China, is the epicenter for the pandemic outbreak of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19). It has become a severe public health challenge to the world and established a public health emergency of international worry. This infectious disease has pulled down the economy of almost all top developed nations. The coronaviruses (CoVs) known for various epidemics caused time to time. Infectious diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS), followed by COVID‐19, are all coronaviruses led outbreaks that scourged the history of mankind. CoVs evolved themselves to more infectious, transmissible, and more pandemic with time. To prevent the spread of the SARS‐CoV‐2, many countries have ordered the complete lockdown to combat the outbreak. This paper briefly discussed the historical background of CoVs and the evolution of human coronaviruses (HCoVs), the case studies and the development of their antiviral medications. The viral infection encountered with present‐day challenges and futuristic approaches with the help of nanotechnology to minimize the spread of infectious viruses. The antiviral drugs and their clinical advances, along with herbal medicines for viral inhibition and immunity boosters, are described. Elaboration of tables related to CoVs for the compilation of the literature has been adopted for the better understanding.
Electrophilicities of 4‐Nitrobenzochalcogenadiazoles
Authors: Salah Saida Ben , Necibi Feriel , Goumont Régis , Boubaker Taoufik
Published: July 2020

Through the linear free energy relationship log k=sN (N + E), the electrophilicity parameters E of 4‐nitrobenzochalcogenadiazoles 1 a and 1 b have been determined, at 20 °C, by kinetic investigations of their electrophilic addition reactions to a series of nitroalkyl anions 2 a‐c in aqueous solution. The derived E‐parameters of electrophiles 1 a (E=‐12.80) and 1 b (E=‐11.46) have been integrated into the electrophilicity scale established by Mayr. Interestingly the less activated compound (1 a) has an E value which is practically the same as that of the 1,3,5‐trinitrobenzene (E=‐13.19), the common reference aromatic electrophile. Mayr's approach was found to predict the rate constants for σ‐complexation reactions of our electrophiles 1 a and 1 b with aniline and 4‐chloroaniline in acetonitrile with a factor of 10−36. Good linear correlation (r2=0.9979) between the electrophilicity parameters E of 4,6‐dinitrobenzochalcogenadiazoles 3 a‐c and E values of their analogously 4‐nitrobenzochalcogenadiazoles 1 a‐c has been found and analysed. Furthermore, effect of basicity of nitronate anions 2 a‐c on their nucleophilic reactivity has also been examined quantitatively on the basis of kinetic data. Imbalance effect is suggested to be responsible for the finding of an inequality between the Brønsted αelec and βnuc values.
Synthesis of Functionalized 1‐Aryl‐3‐phenylthiazolylpropanoids and Their Potential as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Nana Frédéric , Kuete Victor , Zaharia Valentin , Ngameni Bathelemy , Sandjo Louis P.
Published: July 2020

Natural products have inspired the development of multiple‐target anticancer agents. To reach this goal, preparation of hybrid molecules was adopted as a recent approach to target and affect both sensitive and resistant cells. In the continuation of the search for potent anticancer agents, nine thiazole‐based chalcones were prepared. Their cytotoxic activities were evaluated against twenty cancer cell lines and against the normal cell line AML12 hepatocytes. The key steps of these syntheses involved Hantzsch, Sommelet, and Claisen‐Schmidt reactions. Julia‐Colonna reaction was used to achieve the epoxidation of the double bond. The products were purified by chromatographic techniques and were characterized by spectroscopic methods. Cytotoxicity assays were performed by rezasurin reduction test. Compounds 4–10 showed promising cytotoxic activities. 4 and 7 were the most cytotoxic with IC50 values lower than 1 μM against seven and two cancer cell lines, respectively. This study disclosed a new series of potential anticancer agents among which 4 and 7 deserve further investigation to develop drug for sensitive and multidrug resistant (MDR) cancer.
The production of the doubly charmed baryon in deeply inelastic ep scattering at the Large Hadron Electron Collider
Authors: Sun Zhan , Wu Xing-Gang
Published: July 2020

Abstract

In this paper, we carry out a detailed study on the production of the doubly charmed baryon in deeply inelastic ep scattering (DIS) for Q2 ∈ [2, 100] GeV2, at the Large Hadron Electron Collider (LHeC) with Ee = 60(140) GeV and Ep = 7000 GeV. To exclude the contributions from the diffractive productions and the b hadron decays, we impose the kinematic cuts 0.3 < z < 0.9, and $$ {p}_{t,\mathrm{baryon}}^{\star 2} $$

p

t
,
baryon

⋆
2

> 1 GeV2 in the center-of-mass (CM) frame of γ∗p. Based on the designed LHeC luminosity, by detecting the decay channel $$ {\Xi}_{cc}^{+}\left({\Xi}_{cc}^{++}\right)\to {\Lambda}_c^{+} $$

Ξ
cc
+

Ξ
cc

+
+

→

Λ
c
+

with the subsequent decay $$ {\Lambda}_c^{+}\to {pK}^{-}{\pi}^{+} $$

Λ
c
+

→

pK
−

π
+

, we predict that about 1880 (2700) $$ {\Xi}_{cc}^{+} $$

Ξ
cc
+

events and 3750 (5400) $$ {\Xi}_{cc}^{++} $$

Ξ
cc

+
+

events can be accumulated per year, which signifies the prospect of observing them via the DIS at the forthcoming LHeC. In addition, we also predict the distributions of a rich variety of physical observables in the laboratory frame and the γ∗p CM frame, including Q2, $$ {p}_t^2 $$

p
t
2

, Y (rapidity), $$ {p}_t^{\star 2},{Y}^{\star } $$

p
t

⋆
2

,

Y
⋆

, W, and z distributions, respectively, which can provide helpful references for studying the doubly charmed baryon. In conclusion, we think that in addition to the LHC, the LHeC is also a helpful platform for studying the properties of the doubly charmed baryon.
Die Stadt als gesunder Lebensort?!
Authors: Köckler Heike , Sieber Raphael
Published: July 2020

Städte werden durch verschiedene Merkmale charakterisiert, von denen Dichte ein aus gesundheitlicher Sicht besonders bedeutendes ist. Am Beispiel der Gesundheitsdeterminanten Lärm, Grün- und Freiflächen sowie gesundheitliche Versorgung wird dargestellt, dass Stadt als sich stetig verändernder Raum zu verstehen ist, der nur unter Beachtung der Wechselwirkungen seiner baulichen und sozialräumlichen Gestalt sowie gesellschaftlichen Gestaltung verstanden werden kann. Es werden verschiedene Stadttypen aufgezeigt und Leitbilder der Raum- und Stadtentwicklung aus gesundheitlicher Perspektive beschrieben. Eine Auseinandersetzung mit Instrumenten der Stadtentwicklung und des planerischen Umweltschutzes zeigt die Möglichkeiten zur Beeinflussung von Gesundheitsdeterminanten auf kommunaler Ebene auf. Partizipation von Öffentlichkeit und Stakeholdern spielt in lokalen Lebenswelten eine besondere Rolle. Der Beitrag zeigt auf, dass die Potenziale für eine gesundheitsfördernde Stadtentwicklung gegeben, aber vielfach noch nicht ausgeschöpft sind.
Mechanical, biological and tribological behaviour of fixation plates 3D printed by electron beam and selective laser melting
Authors: Al-Tamimi Abdulsalam Abdulaziz , Hernandez Miguel A. , Omar Abdalla , Morales-Aldana David Felipe , Peach Chris , Bartolo Paulo
Published: July 2020

Commercially available fixation plates are built using metallic biocompatible materials such as titanium and its alloys and stainless steel. However, these plates show a stiffness mismatch comparing to bone, leading to stress shielding and bone loss. In this paper, we investigate the combined use of topology optimisation and additive manufacturing to print fixation plates with reduced stiffness and improved biological performance. Ti-6Al-4 V plates were topology optimised considering different loading conditions and volume reductions and printed using electron beam melting and selective laser melting. The effect of processing conditions on the mechanical properties, microhardness, wear resistance and surface roughness was analysed. Results show acceptable wear resistance values for a medical device and a reduction of stress shielding by increasing volume reduction. It is also shown that no polishing is required as 3D printed plates are able to support cell attachment and proliferation. In comparison to commercial plates, 3D printed ones show significantly better biological performance. For the same design, SLM plates present higher mechanical properties, while EBM plates present better cell attachment and proliferation.
Predictors of Acute Mortality After Open Pelvic Fracture: Experience From 37 Patients From A Level I Trauma Center
Authors: Tseng I‐Chuan , Chen I‐Jung , Chou Ying‐Chao , Hsu Yung‐Heng , Yu Yi‐Hsun
Published: July 2020

Background

Open pelvic fractures are caused by high‐energy traumas and are accompanied by organ injuries. Despite improvements in pre‐hospital care, the acute mortality rate following open pelvic fractures remains high. This study aimed to report experiences in managing open pelvic fractures, identify potential independent predictors that contribute to acute mortality in such patients, and generate a scoring formula to predict mortality rate.

Methods

Open pelvic fracture patients managed during a 42‐month period were retrospectively studied. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of acute mortality. Using the Youden index, threshold values of predictors were selected. Significant predictors were weighted to create a scoring formula. The area under the curve (AUC) was tested in this specific group.

Results

The incidence of open pelvic fractures in all pelvic fractures was 4.9% (37/772), and the overall mortality rate was 21.6% (8/37). All the successfully resuscitated patients entered the reconstruction stage survived and underwent the complete treatment course. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that the revised trauma score (RTS) was the single independent predictor of acute mortality. A scoring formula was generated following the statistical analysis. The probability of mortality was 0% and 100% when the score was above and below −2, respectively. This model predicted mortality with an AUC of 0.948 (95% confidence interval 0.881–1.000, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The RTS may be a potential predictor of acute mortality in open pelvic fracture patients. Further work would be required to validate the clinical efficacy of the generated scoring formula.
Aktuelle Glaukomchirurgie
Authors: Hoffmann Esther M. , Hengerer Fritz , Klabe Karsten , Schargus Marc , Thieme Hagen , Voykov Bogomil
Published: July 2020

Hintergrund

Bei der Behandlung von Glaukompatienten sind die Hauptziele die Bewahrung der Sehfähigkeit und Aufrechterhaltung einer möglichst hohen Lebensqualität bei volkswirtschaftlich akzeptablen Kosten. Daher ist es wichtig, jeden einzelnen Patienten sorgfältig zu evaluieren, um einen individuellen Behandlungsansatz zu erarbeiten.

Material/Methoden

Basierend auf den aktuellen Erkenntnissen, werden in der Übersicht die Vor- und Nachteile der medikamentösen Glaukomtherapie sowie der gängigen glaukomchirurgischen Methoden zusammengefasst. Die verschiedenen Wirkansätze der neuen minimal-invasiven Verfahren werden erläutert, die derzeit in Deutschland am häufigsten genutzten Verfahren vorgestellt sowie Empfehlungen für Vor- und Nachsorge gegeben.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Seit einigen Jahren stehen außer verschiedenen medikamentösen Tropftherapien und den klassischen operativen Verfahren, auch neue minimal-invasive Therapiealternativen zur Verfügung. Letztere eröffnen die Möglichkeit einer früheren chirurgischen Intervention, besonders für Patienten, die bereits initial oder im Laufe der Therapie für einen medikamentösen Ansatz ungeeignet erscheinen.
Infected congenital cervical dermal sinuses leading to spinal cord abscess: two case reports and a review of the literature
Authors: Bevan Rhian , Leach Paul
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Congenital dermal sinuses are a rare form of spinal dysraphism. The developmental defects are located along the midline neuroaxis, with sinuses in the cervical region being the least common. Congenital dermal sinuses can be associated with intraspinal infection as they act as a direct route from the skin and subcutaneous tissues into the spinal cord.

Methods

The authors present two cases of cervical dermal sinuses complicated by intramedullary abscess. Both children presented with neurological decline and febrile illness. MRI showed intraspinal abscess. Both underwent prompt surgical excision of the sinus tract, exploration of the cord and intravenous antibiotics.

Results

Both patients demonstrated excellent neurological recovery.

Conclusions

Complete surgical excision of the sinus and tract in addition to long-term antimicrobials can yield excellent neurological outcomes. At surgery, do not expect to find pus when exploring the intramedullary component. Long-term follow-up is advocated due to potential late recurrence.
Correction to: Somatic mutations in neurons during aging and neurodegeneration
Authors: Verheijen Bert M. , Vermulst Marc , van Leeuwen Fred W.
Published: July 2020

In the original article, the panels “Brain organoids” and “Transgenics” were included in Fig. 5 without permission.
Beer stein blast to the head a rare case of combined blunt and sharp force trauma
Authors: Kunz S. N. , Gorges N. , Fischer F. , Adamec J.
Published: July 2020

Cases of combined blunt and sharp force trauma to the head caused by one striking tool are rare. When beer steins are used as an assault weapon, they can cause blunt traumas upon initial contact phase. If the impact force exceeds the mechanical stability of the beer stein, it breaks into several sharp-edged pieces, which then can cause sharp force trauma injuries due to the interaction between the head and the stein fragments.

We present a case of a 43-year old man, who suffered from blunt and sharp force head traumas due to one single blow with a 1-l beer stein. A forensic-biomechanical analysis of the event, together with witness testimony evaluation and experimental comparison helped to reconstruct the most probable chain of events. Based on these findings as well as on the medical diagnoses and treatment, the assault was assessed as a nonacute life-threatening, but potentially fatal offence. The case was indicted as grievous bodily harm.
Correlative light and electron microscopy of wall formation in Eimeria nieschulzi
Authors: Wiedmer Stefanie , Kurth Thomas , Buder Ulrike , Bleischwitz Sinja , Entzeroth Rolf , Kurth Michael
Published: July 2020

Coccidian parasites possess complex life cycles involving asexual proliferation followed by sexual development leading to the production of oocysts. Coccidian oocysts are persistent stages which are secreted by the feces and transmitted from host to host guaranteeing life cycle progression and disease transmission. The robust bilayered oocyst wall is formed from the contents of two organelles, the wall-forming bodies type I and II (WFBI, WFBII), located exclusively in the macrogametocyte.Eimeria nieschulzihas been used as a model parasite to study and follow gametocyte and oocyst development. In this study, the gametocyte and oocyst wall formation ofE. nieschulziwas analyzed by electron microscopy and immuno-histology. A monoclonal antibody raised against the macrogametocytes ofE. nieschulziidentified a tyrosine-rich glycoprotein (EnGAM82) located in WFBII. Correlative light and electron microscopy was used to examine the vesicle-specific localization and spatial distribution of GAM82-proteins during macrogametocyte maturation by this monoclonal antibody. In early and mid-stages, the GAM82-protein is ubiquitously distributed in WFBII. Few hours later, the protein is arranged in subvesicular structures. It was possible to show that the substructure of WFBII and the spatial distribution of GAM82-proteins probably represent pre-synthesized cross-linked materials prior to the inner oocyst wall formation. Dityrosine-cross-linked gametocyte proteins can also be confirmed and visualized by fluorescence microscopy (UV light, autofluorescence of WFBII).
Development and reliability of the AOSpine CROST (Clinician Reported Outcome Spine Trauma): a tool to evaluate and predict outcomes from clinician’s perspective
Authors: Sadiqi Said , Muijs Sander P. J. , Renkens Jeroen J. M. , Post Marcel W. , Benneker Lorin M. , Chapman Jens R. , Kandziora Frank , Schnake Klaus J. , Vialle Emiliano N. , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Oner F. Cumhur
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To report on the development of AOSpine CROST (Clinician Reported Outcome Spine Trauma) and results of an initial reliability study.

Methods

The AOSpine CROST was developed using an iterative approach of multiple cycles of development, review, and revision including an expert clinician panel. Subsequently, a reliability study was performed among an expert panel who were provided with 20 spine trauma cases, administered twice with 4-week interval. The results of the developmental process were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the reliability per parameter using Kappa statistics, inter-rater rater agreement using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and internal consistency using Cronbach’s α.

Results

The AOSpine CROST was developed and consisted of 10 parameters, 2 of which are only applicable for surgically treated patents (‘Wound healing’ and ‘Implants’). A dichotomous scoring system (‘yes’ or ‘no’ response) was incorporated to express expected problems for the short term and long term. In the reliability study, 16 (84.2%) participated in the first round and 14 (73.7%) in the second. Intra-rater reliability was fair to good for both time points (κ = 0.40–0.80 and κ = 0.31–0.67). Results of inter-rater reliability were lower (κ = 0.18–0.60 and κ = 0.16–0.46). Inter-rater agreement for total scores showed moderate results (ICC = 0.52–0.60), and the internal consistency was acceptable (α = 0.76–0.82).

Conclusions

The AOSpine CROST, an outcome tool for the surgeons, was developed using an iterative process. An initial reliability analysis showed fair to moderate results and acceptable internal consistency. Further clinical validation studies will be performed to further validate the tool.
Cellulose mini-membranes modified with TiO2 for separation, determination, and speciation of arsenates and selenites
Authors: Zawisza Beata , Sitko Rafal , Queralt Ignasi , Margui Eva , Gagor Anna
Published: July 2020

Sorptive and selective mini-membranes based on TiO2 directly synthesized onto cellulose filters (TiO2@cellulose) have been developed. The in situ synthesis of TiO2@cellulose applied is simple and economically advantageous. The obtained membranes can be useful for (1) separating arsenic(V) and selenium(IV) from other ions and organic matter, (2) speciation of arsenic and selenium, and (3) determining ulratraces of these ions in water samples. The membranes exhibit good stability and high maximum adsorption capacities for Se(IV) (71 mg g−1) and As(V) (41 mg g−1). A monolayer chemical adsorption of analytes on the membranes was confirmed. The structure of membranes was examined with scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffractometry, and micro energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectrometry (μ-EDXRF). The membranes were characterized by homogenous distribution of TiO2 onto cellulose. The TiO2@cellulose was used as a new sorbent in micro-solid phase extraction for determination of Se(IV) and As(V) by EDXRF. Using direct analysis of mini-membranes after sorption of analytes avoids the elution step. Thus, the proposed procedure is an attractive and solvent-free option for quantitative monitoring of Se(IV) and As(V) in different materials. Both analytes were quantitatively and simultaneously separated/determined from samples at pH 2 with very good recovery (close to 100%), precision (4.5%), and detection limits (0.4 ng mL−1 Se and 0.25 ng mL−1 As). TiO2@cellulose membranes were applied to water analysis.