bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germline USP8 Mutation Associated With Pediatric Cushing Disease and Other Clinical Features: A New Syndrome
Authors: Cohen Michal , Persky Rebecca , Stegemann Rachel , Hernández-Ramírez Laura C , Zeltser Deena , Lodish Maya B , Chen Anlu , Keil Margaret F , Tatsi Christina , Faucz Fabio R , Buchner David A , Stratakis Constantine A , Tiosano Dov
Published: June 2019

Background

Somatic mutations in the ubiquitin-specific peptidase 8 (USP8) gene are common in corticotropinomas of children with Cushing disease (CD). We report a unique patient with a germline USP8 mutation who presented with CD and a constellation of other findings that constitute an intriguing genetic syndrome.

Case Description

We describe a 16-year-old female with CD, developmental delay, dysmorphic features, ichthyosiform hyperkeratosis, chronic lung disease, chronic kidney disease, hyperglycemia, dilated cardiomyopathy with congestive heart failure, and previous history of hyperinsulinism and partial GH deficiency. She was diagnosed with CD at 14 years old and underwent transsphenoidal surgery. Despite initial improvement, she developed recurrent CD.

Methods

DNA was extracted from peripheral blood and tumor DNA; whole-exome and Sanger confirmatory sequencing were performed. Immunohistochemistry was performed on the resected adenoma.

Results

A de novo germline heterozygous USP8 mutation (c.2155T>C, p.S719P) in the critical 14-3-3 binding motif hot spot locus of the gene was identified in both the peripheral blood and tumor DNA. Histopathologic evaluation of the resected tumor confirmed an ACTH-secreting adenoma.

Conclusion

Somatic USP8 mutations are common in adenomas causing CD, but to date, no germline defects have been reported. We describe a patient with a de novo germline USP8 mutation with recurrent CD and multiple other medical problems. This unique patient informs us of the multitude of signaling events that may be controlled by USP8.
Modeling blood diseases with human induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Georgomanoli Maria , Papapetrou Eirini P.
Published: June 2019

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are derived from somatic cells through a reprogramming process, which converts them to a pluripotent state, akin to that of embryonic stem cells. Over the past decade, iPSC models have found increasing applications in the study of human diseases, with blood disorders featuring prominently. Here, we discuss methodological aspects pertaining to iPSC generation, hematopoietic differentiation and gene editing, and provide an overview of uses of iPSCs in modeling the cell and gene therapy of inherited genetic blood disorders, as well as their more recent use as models of myeloid malignancies. We also discuss the strengths and limitations of iPSCs compared to model organisms and other cellular systems commonly used in hematology research.
Nup358 regulates microridge length by controlling SUMOylation-dependent activity of aPKC in zebrafish epidermis
Authors: Magre Indrasen , Fandade Vikas , Damle Indraneel , Banerjee Poulomi , Yadav Santosh Kumar , Sonawane Mahendra , Joseph Jomon
Published: June 2019

Par polarity complex, consisting of Par3, Par6 and atypical protein kinase C (aPKC), plays a crucial role in establishment and maintenance of cell polarity. Although activation of aPKC is critical for polarity, how this is achieved is unclear. The zebrafish developing epidermis, along with its apical actin based projections called microridges, offers a genetically tractable system for unraveling mechanisms of the cell polarity control. The zebrafish aPKC regulates elongation of microridges by controlling levels of apical Lgl, which acts as a pro-elongation factor. Here, we show that the nucleoporin Nup358 - a component of the nuclear pore complex and a part of cytoplasmic annulate lamellae (AL) - SUMOylates zebrafish aPKC. Nup358-mediated SUMOylation controls aPKC activity to regulate Lgl-dependent microridge elongation. Our data further suggest that cytoplasmic AL structures are the possible site for Nup358-mediated aPKC SUMOylation. We have unraveled hitherto unappreciated contribution of Nup358-mediated aPKC SUMOylation in cell polarity regulation.
Preparation of Macroporous Cellulose Beads through a Single-Step Non-Solvent Induced Phase Separation Method from a Cellulose Acetate Solution
Authors: Harada Nobuyuki , Nakamura Jun-ichi , Uyama Hiroshi
Published: June 2019

Macroporous cellulose beads having a three-dimensionally interconnected porous structure have been economically prepared from a cellulose acetate solution in a single step at room temperature. The water absorbency and stiffness of the obtained macroporous beads could be controlled by changing the CA concentration.
Radical and Cation Crossover Reaction System Enables Synthesis of Complex Aliphatic Chains Possessing Functionalized Quaternary Carbons
Authors: Murata Yumi , Shimada Taisei , Nishikata Takashi
Published: June 2019

Controlling the reactive species during the synthesis of complex aliphatic chains containing a quaternary carbon is incredibly difficult. In this paper, we efficiently controlled both radical and cationic species in the presence of a copper catalyst. This radical-polar crossover reaction system enables the three-component coupling of styrenes, alcohols, and α-bromocarbonyl compounds as a tertiary alkyl source at room temperature. Mechanistic studies indicated that the reaction contains both radical and cationic species.
Chemical enhancers of posttranscriptional gene silencing in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jay Florence , Vitel Maxime , Brioudes Florian , Louis Mélissa , Knobloch Thomas , Voinnet Olivier
Published: June 2019

RNAi mediated by small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) operates via transcriptional (TGS) and posttranscriptional gene silencing (PTGS). In Arabidopsis thaliana, TGS relies on DICER-LIKE-3 (DCL3)-dependent 24-nt siRNAs loaded into AGO4-clade ARGONAUTE effector proteins. PTGS operates via DCL4-dependent 21-nt siRNAs loaded into AGO1-clade proteins. We set up and validated a medium-throughput, semi-automatized procedure enabling chemical screening, in a 96-well in vitro format, of Arabidopsis transgenic seedlings expressing an inverted-repeat construct from the phloem companion cells. The ensuing quantitative PTGS phenotype was exploited to identify molecules, which, upon topical application, either inhibit or enhance siRNA biogenesis/activities. The vast majority of identified modifiers were enhancers, among which Sortin1, Isoxazolone, and [5-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)furan-2-yl]-piperidine-1-ylmethanethione (DFPM) provided the most robust and consistent results, including upon their application onto soil-grown plants in which their effect was nonautonomous and long lasting. The three molecules increased the RNAi potency of the inverted-repeat construct, in large part by enhancing 21-nt siRNA accumulation and loading into AGO1, and concomitantly reducing AGO4 and DCL3 levels in planta. A similar, albeit not identical effect, was observed on 22-nt siRNAs produced from a naturally occurring inverted-repeat locus, demonstrating that the molecules also enhance endogenous PTGS. In standardized assays conducted in seedling extracts, the three enhancers selectively increased DCL4-mediated processing of in vitro-synthesized double-stranded RNAs, indicating the targeting of a hitherto unknown PTGS component probably independent of the DCL4-cofactor DOUBLE-STRANDED RNA-BINDING 4 (DRB4). This study establishes the proof-of-concept that RNAi efficacy can be modulated by chemicals in a whole organism. Their potential applications and the associated future research are discussed.
Recent advances in pelvic floor repair
Authors: Mironska Emma , Chapple Christopher , MacNeil Sheila
Published: June 2019

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) are conditions which result in significant physical, mental and social consequences for women worldwide. The high rates of recurrence reported with primary repair for POP led to the use of synthetic mesh to augment repairs in both primary and secondary cases following failed previous POP repair. The widely reported, unacceptably high rates of complications associated with the use of synthetic, transvaginal mesh in pelvic floor repair have severely limited the treatment options that surgeons can offer. This article summarises the recent advances in pelvic floor repair, such as improved quantification and modelling of the biomechanics of the pelvic floor and the developing technology within the field of tissue engineering for treatment of SUI/POP, including biomaterials and cell-based therapies. Finally, we will discuss the issues surrounding the commercial introduction of synthetic mesh for use within the pelvic floor and what lessons can be learned for the future as well as the current guidance surrounding treatment for SUI/POP.
Attention Network Test fMRI data for participants with Parkinson’s disease and healthy elderly
Authors: Day Trevor K. M. , Madhyastha Tara M. , Askren Mary K. , Boord Peter , Montine Thomas J. , Grabowski Thomas J.
Published: June 2019

Here, we present unprocessed and preprocessed Attention Network Test data from 25 adults with Parkinson’s disease and 21 healthy adults, along with the associated defaced structural scans. The preprocessed data has been processed with a provided Analysis of Functional NeuroImages afni_proc.py script and includes structural scans that were skull-stripped before defacing. All acquired demographic and neuropsychological data are included.
Moral Perceptions of Advised Actions
Authors: Coffman Lucas C. , Gotthard-Real Alexander
Published: June 2019

Can an organization avoid blame for an unpopular action when an adviser advises it to do it? We present experimental evidence suggesting this is the case—advice to be selfish substantially decreases punishment of being selfish. Further, this result is true despite advisers’ misaligned incentives, known to all: Through a relational contract incentive, advisers are motivated to tell the decision makers what they want to hear. Through incentivized elicitations, we find suggestive evidence that advice moves punishment by affecting beliefs of how necessary the selfish action was. In follow-up treatments, however, we show advice does not decrease punishment solely through a beliefs channel. Advice not only changes beliefs about what happened, but also the perceived morality of it. Finally, in treatments in which advisers are available, the data suggest selfish decision makers act more selfishly.

This paper was accepted by Axel Ockenfels, behavioral economics.
5 ways to engage… A very active child
Authors: Mountain Julie
Published: June 2019

Satisfying energetic children, from mini-parkour to watering the plants. By Julie Mountain
Retos de la autorregulación publicitaria ante los riesgos jurídicos y éticos del marketing de influencers
Authors: Vilajoana-Alejandre Sandra , Rom-Rodríguez Josep , Miotto Giorgia
Published: June 2019

Ante el auge del marketing de influencers, este estudio, descriptivo y analítico, responde a tres objetivos: identificar y describir los límites legales y éticos de esta práctica publicitaria; valorar su supervisión sobre la base de la jurisprudencia y las resoluciones del sistema de autorregulación publicitaria español; e identificar el rol que puede desempeñar la autorregulación publicitaria para garantizar la protección del consumidor a la luz de las acciones llevadas a cabo en dos mercados publicitarios de referencia, Estados Unidos y Reino Unido. Los resultados constatan: la inexistencia de legislación o códigos éticos específicos publicados sobre esta práctica en España; la inexistencia de jurisprudencia o resoluciones de Autocontrol sobre el cumplimiento del principio de identificación publicitaria; y el papel clave que puede y debe desempeñar la autorregulación para concienciar a anunciantes, influencers y destinatarios de la necesaria identificación de esta práctica publicitaria, fomentar el compromiso y la corresponsabilidad de las partes, e implicarse en el seguimiento y control de posibles infracciones.
Seasonal dynamics of lingonberry and blueberry spectra
Authors: Forsström Petri , Peltoniemi Jouni , Rautiainen Miina
Published: June 2019

Accurate mapping of the spatial distribution of understory species from spectral images requires ground reference data which represent the prevailing phenological stage at the time of image acquisition. We measured the spectral bidirectional reflectance factors (BRFs, 350â2500 nm) at varying view angles for lingonberry ( L.) and blueberry ( L.) throughout the growing season of 2017 using Finnish Geospatial Research Instituteâs FIGIFIGO field goniometer. Additionally, we measured spectra of leaves and berries of both species, and flowers of lingonberry. Both lingonberry and blueberry showed seasonality in visible and near-infrared spectral regions which was linked to occurrences of leaf growth, flowering, berrying, and leaf senescence. The seasonality of spectra differed between species due to different phenologies (evergreen vs. deciduous). Vegetation indices, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), moisture stress index (MSI), plant senescence reflectance index (PSRI), and red-edge inflection point (REIP2), showed characteristic seasonal trends. NDVI and PSRI were sensitive to the presence of flowers and berries of lingonberry, while with blueberry the effects were less evident. Off-nadir observations supported differentiating the dwarf shrub species from each other but showed little improvement for detection of flowers and berries. Lingonberry and blueberry can be identified by their spectral signatures if ground reference data are available over the entire growing season. The spectral data measured in this study are reposited in the publicly open SPECCHIO Spectral Information System.Vaccinium vitis-idaeaVaccinium myrtillus
Savariából jöttek
Authors: Agócs Nándor
Published: June 2019

Around one hundred inscriptions were recovered outside Pannonia mentioning people originating from Savaria. It is quite an abundant source group considsering there are currently 247 inscriptions that were recovered on Savarian territory. The presence of Savarians is attested earliest in the twin legions, the legio I Adiutrix and the legio II Adiutrix. These two legions recruited mainly from cities founded by Emperor Claudius and were transferred in Flavian times to Germania and Britannia respectively. Soldiers who were subsequently transferred to the cohors XIII urbana (and plausibly to the cohors X urbana) as a grant, likely merited their awards in these provinces. After the 1st century AD no Pannonian recruits are known in the cohortes urbanae. In the Flavian era, possibly from AD 71 onwards, Savarian citizens enlisted to the legio XV Apollinaris stationed at that time in Carnuntum. The unit was led east in AD 113 with the last group of Savarian conscripts. At the end of the 1st century AD several Savarians lived in Rome, who served in the newly established ranks of the equites singulares Augusti. By Emperor Hadrian’s reign the latest several Savarians are attested amongst the officers of the cohortes praetoriae. From the second half of the 2nd century AD we find a handful of Savarians amongst legionary centurions and equestrian military officers as well. Part of the Savarian recruits certainly enlisted in the legiones Adiutrices during the course of the 2nd century AD. It was most likely a result of the campaigns of these legions that Savarians are attested in Africa and from the ascension of Emperor Septimius Severus, in Rome. In the Severus era numerous Savarians are attested in the ranks of the cohortes praetoriae and the legio II Parthica, yet their numbers decline amongst the equites singulares. The Savarians who are the subject of this study are mostly descendants of the veterans who established Savaria, themselves being soldiers as well. The majority of civilians leaving Pannonia where following their recruited family member.
University students’ preferences on English teachers’ nationality and teaching style
Authors: Komlosi-Ferdinand Flora
Published: June 2019

Inspiration dynamics between students and teachers have great impact on learners’ perceptions, attitudes and psychological well-being in the ESL classroom. Gender-based differences in opinions about foreign-language acquisition often shape students’ approaches and learning structures. Nowadays, great emphasis is placed on the presence of native English-speaker teachers in English language teaching institutions. However, such teachers may struggle to understand local students’ attitudes. Seventy-four university students were asked about their perceptions and preferences on English teachers’ nationality and teaching-style in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria. The data were analysed according to gender-based differences in opinions. The findings reveal that, in general, students have no preference for native or non-native teachers, yet prefer educators who teach exclusively through the medium of English. Female students expressed less self-confidence, more need for continuous reinforcement and social interaction in the classroom, while male students displayed more self-confidence, more autonomy and the need for practical knowledge-focused learning content and strategies.
Pheochromocytoma-Induced Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Afana Majed , Panchal Rishi J. , Simon Rebecca M. , Hejab Amal , Lahiri Sharon W. , Khandelwal Akshay K. , Hudson Michael P.
Published: June 2019

Pheochromocytoma, a rare catecholamine-secreting tumor, typically manifests itself with paroxysmal hypertension, tachycardia, headache, and diaphoresis. Less often, symptoms related to substantial hemodynamic compromise and cardiogenic shock occur.

We report the case of a 66-year-old woman who presented with abdominal pain. Examination revealed a large right adrenal mass, cardiogenic shock, and severe heart failure in the presence of normal coronary arteries. Within days, the patient's hemodynamic status and left ventricular ejection fraction improved markedly. Results of imaging and biochemical tests confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma-induced takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Medical therapy and right adrenalectomy resolved the patient's heart failure, and she was asymptomatic postoperatively. We recommend awareness of the link between pheochromocytoma and takotsubo cardiomyopathy, and we discuss relevant diagnostic and management principles.
Surgical Repair of Mitral-Aortic Intervalvular Fibrosa Pseudoaneurysm in a High-Risk Patient 13 Years after Aortic Root Replacement
Authors: Muretti Mirko , Elmahdy Walid , Ttofi Iakovos , Mozalbat David , Murphy Michael , Asimakopoulos George , Rosendahl Ulrich
Published: June 2019

Pseudoaneurysms of the mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa are rare complications that can develop after mitral or aortic valve surgery, endocarditis, or Takayasu arteritis. The optimal timing of surgery to avoid potentially life-threatening complications of pseudoaneurysms has not been established, and watchful waiting has been adopted in specific situations. We describe the case of a 50-year-old man in whom a pseudoaneurysm of the mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa developed after aortic root replacement with a homograft. After 13 years of watchful waiting, reoperation was deemed necessary because the pseudoaneurysm had grown to 48 mm and the aortic regurgitation caused by the degenerated homograft had become severe. This case highlights the need for increased awareness of mitral-aortic intervalvular fibrosa pseudoaneurysms and their management.
Acute Isolated Right Ventricular Infarction: Unusual Presentation of Anterior ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Zhong Wayne W. , Blue Matthew , Michaels Andrew D.
Published: June 2019

Acute right ventricular infarction presenting with ST-segment elevation in the anterior precordial electrocardiographic leads is an unusual event. Anterior ST-segment elevation typically suggests occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery. It should be recognized, however, that occlusion of a right coronary artery branch can cause isolated ST-segment elevation in leads V1 and V2 on a standard 12-lead electrocardiogram. We describe the cases of 2 patients who presented with acute chest syndrome with isolated ST-segment elevation in leads V1 and V2. Emergency coronary angiograms revealed that acute thrombotic occlusion of the right ventricular marginal branch of the dominant right coronary artery caused the clinical manifestations in the first patient, whereas occlusion of the proximal nondominant right coronary artery was the culprit lesion in the second patient. Both lesions caused right ventricular myocardial infarction. The patients underwent successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention. These cases illustrate the importance of carefully reviewing angiographic findings to accurately diagnose an acute isolated right ventricular myocardial infarction, which may mimic the electrocardiographic features of an anterior-wall myocardial infarction.
Influence of Clinker and SCMs on Soluble Chemicals and Expansion of Phosphogypsum-Based Cementitious Materials
Authors: Sun Tao , Hu Teng , Wang Guiming , Shui Zhonghe , Ge Keyu , Dai Qiantian , Xie Yifan
Published: June 2019

This article investigates the effects of the type and content of alkaline materials (AM) on the impurities and expansion of phosphogypsum-based cementitious materials. It is concluded that the selection of AM (clinker, clinker–ground-granulated blast-furnace slag, clinker–fly ash, and clinker-lime) has little effect on the of soluble phosphorus removal rate but has significant influence on the soluble fluorine removal rate (FRR). A higher FRR (74–83 %) is obtained by using clinker–fly ash as the AM compared with groups using other types of AM. In addition, it can be observed that the addition of AM can reduce the expansion rate of mortar. However, as the AM continuously increases, the effect is not significant. In terms of expansion ratio, the optimal amount of AM is approximately 4 % of phosphogypsum by weight. Furthermore, delayed ettringite formation is greatly affected by the temperature and humidity when the elements needed to form ettringite are sufficient.
Prediction Capability of Constitutive Models for Inconel 718 Sheets Deformed at Various Elevated Temperatures and Strain Rates
Authors: Prasad K. S. , Panda S. K. , Kar S. K. , Murty S. V. S. N. , Sharma S. C.
Published: June 2019

The fabrication of Inconel 718 (IN718) sheet metal components often requires larger deformation loads at room temperature. In this regard, deformation of the material at elevated temperature is a promising approach for reducing the forming load and enhancing the formability. Hence, the flow-stress behavior of IN718 sheets at elevated temperatures within the range of 773–973 K over wide ranges of strain rate (from 0.001 to 1 s−1) was studied by uniaxial tensile testing. The peak load reduced significantly by 75.6 and 8.5 % at 923 K and 0.001s−1 compared with room temperature and 773 K, respectively. Also, the total elongation improved by 65.4 and 16.5 % at 923 K with respect to room temperature and 773 K, respectively. In addition, a substantial improvement in the total elongation was observed with decrease in strain rate at higher temperatures. Seven different constitutive models, viz., Johnson-Cook (JC), modified-JC (m-JC), modified-Arrhenius equation (m-ARR), mechanical threshold stress (MTS), Rusinek-Klepaczko (RK), modified Zerilli-Armstrong (m-ZA), and the artificial neural network (ANN) were developed to describe the deformation behavior of IN718 sheet material at elevated temperatures and varying strain rates. Furthermore, suitability of these developed models was determined by comparing three standard statistical parameters, namely correlation coefficient (R), average absolute error (Δ), and standard deviation (SDA). The results showed that m-JC and m-ZA models predicted the flow stress very well in accordance with the experimental data. However, the trained ANN model could predict the flow-stress behavior more accurately throughout the entire testing condition. Though the ANN model was the best among all seven models, it was strongly dependent on an extremely good set of experimental data. Hence, the physical-based m-ZA model was considered to be the suitable model that could precisely predict the flow-stress behavior of IN718 sheet material.
Long-term outcome following laser therapy of benign cystic-solid thyroid nodules
Authors: Døssing Helle , Bennedbæk Finn Noe , Hegedüs Laszlo
Published: June 2019

Objective

Laser therapy (LT) is considered a safe and effective procedure for inducing thyroid nodule necrosis, fibrosis and shrinkage. Little is known about long-term efficacy of LT in benign complex thyroid nodules, which we report here.

Design and methods

One hundred and ten euthyroid outpatients (28 men and 82 women; median age 48 years (range 17–82)) with a recurrent cytologically benign cystic (≥2 mL cyst volume) thyroid nodule causing local discomfort were assigned to LT. LT was performed after complete cyst aspiration and under continuous ultrasound (US) guidance. Nineteen patients (17 within 6 months) had surgery after LT. The median follow-up for the remaining 91 patients was 45 months (range: 12–134).

Results

The overall median nodule volume in the 110 patients decreased from 9.0 mL (range: 2.0–158.0) to 1.2 mL (range: 0.0–85.0) (P < 0.001) at the final evaluation, corresponding to a median reduction of 85% (range: −49 to 100%). Remission of the cystic part (volume ≤1 mL) was obtained in 82 of 110 (75%) patients after LT. The median cyst volume decreased from 6.3 mL (range: 2.0–158.0) to 0.0 mL (range: 0.0–85.0) (P < 000.1), corresponding to a median reduction of 100% (range: −49 to 100%). These results correlated with a significant decrease in pressure as well as cosmetic complaints. Side effects were restricted to mild local pain.

Conclusion

US-guided aspiration and subsequent LT of benign recurrent cystic thyroid nodules results in a satisfactory long-term clinical response in the majority of patients. LT constitutes a clinically relevant alternative to surgery in such patients.
Prepubertal PTU treatment in rat increases Sertoli cell number and sperm production
Authors: Figueiredo André F A , Wnuk Natália Teixeira , Tavares Amanda O , Miranda José Rafael , Hess Rex A , de França Luiz Renato , Costa Guilherme M J
Published: June 2019

The number of Sertoli cells (SCs) ultimately determines the upper limit of sperm production in the testis. Previous studies have shown that thyroid hormones (TH) receptors are abundantly expressed in developing SCs; therefore, it was highly significant to discover that transient neonatal hypothyroidism induced by the goitrogen 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) can extend SCs proliferation beyond the first 2 weeks postnatal and increase testis weight and sperm production. Further studies concluded that treatment must begin before day 8 post birth in rats. Recent studies, however, showed that SCs present in the transition region at the rete testis exhibit a more immature phenotype and have prolonged mitotic activity, which led to the hypothesis that SCs in this region will retain the capacity to respond to PTU treatment over a longer period of time. In the present study, male Wistar rats were treated with PTU from days 21 to 40 and were evaluated at 40 and 160 days of age. Similar to neonatal rat SCs, it was demonstrated that prepubertal SCs in the transition region have a high mitotic activity and are highly sensitive to TH levels. This delayed, transient hypothyroidism resulted in significantly increased testis weight, SCs number and daily sperm production. The results demonstrate for the first time that Sertoli cells showing plasticity in the transition region can be stimulated to increase proliferation and contribute to a late stage surge in testis weight and sperm output.
HIGH PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY ASSAY FOR DETERMINATION OF MOXIFLOXACIN IN HUMAN PLASMA
Authors: Hanh Luong Thi My , Diep Nguyen Thi Minh , Ngoc Mai Pham Thi , Truong Nguyen Xuan
Published: June 2019

A simple reversed phase HPLC method with UV detection has been successfully developed and validated for determination of moxifloxacin in human plasma. The sample pretreatment involves only single-step protein precipitation with tricloroacetic acid. Moxifloxacin was measured in plasma using a validated HPLC method with UV detector at 295 nm, C18 column (25cm×4.5mm, 5µm), a mixture of phosphate buffer pH 4.0 and acetonitrile (70:30, v/v) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.8 ml/min. Retention time of moxifloxacin was found to be 7.4 min. The mean recovery for the drug was obtained 97.30%. The calibration curve was linear over the concentration range of 0.3 to 25.0 µg/mL with coefficient correlation of 0.9991. This method was successfully applied for therapeutic drug monitoring.
ELASTOSTATIC BENDING OF A 2D-FGSW BEAM UNDER NONUNIFORM DISTRIBUTED LOADS
Authors: Chinh Nguyen Van , Inh Le Cung , Ngoc Anh Le Thi
Published: June 2019

Elastostatic bending behavior of a two-directional functionally graded sandwich (2D-FGSW) beam under various types of nonuniform distributed load is studied.  Based on a 3D-quasi shear deformation theory, a finite element model is derived and employed in the study. Elastostatic response of the beam is computed for the beam with different boundary conditions and aspect ratio. The effects of the material distribution and the loading type on the deflections and stresses distribution are investigated and highlighted.  The influence of the aspect ratio on the behavior of the beam is also examined and discussed.
CHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF MANGLICOLOUS LICHEN GRAPHIS AJAREKARII PATW. & C. R. KULK.
Authors: Haritha Polimati , Patnaik Sunil Kumar , Tatipamula Vinay Bharadwaj
Published: June 2019

The chemical examination of ethanolic extract of manglicolous lichen Graphis ajarekarii (Ga-Et) resulted in isolation of three known metabolites – chiodectonic acid (1), graphenone (2) and graphisquinone (3). All the isolates (1-3) and Ga-Et were screened against DPPH and superoxide free radicals, six different cancer cell lines and one normal human cell line (NHME). This work is the first report of antioxidant and cytotoxicity studies on the isolated metabolites (1-3).
Long-Term Survivors in Metastatic Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Retrospective and Matched Pair Analysis
Authors: Rochefort Pauline , Lardy-Cleaud Audrey , Sarabi Matthieu , Desseigne Françoise , Cattey-Javouhey Anne , de la Fouchardière Christelle
Published: June 2019

Background

Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) is an aggressive malignancy with a median overall survival (OS) of between 8 and 11 months. However, a significant number of patients experience a longer survival, more than 18 months. The aim of this study was to describe the “long-term survivor” population and to evaluate clinical and pathological factors that might affect survival.

Materials and Methods

All patients with mPDAC diagnosed in the Centre Leon Bérard (Lyon, France) between January 2010 and June 2015 and who survived more than 18 months were identified. They were compared with a control cohort matched on age, sex, performance status, stage at diagnosis, primary tumor localization, treatment, and liver metastasis. Their clinical features, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

A total of 94 patients were included, 47 in each cohort. Both cohorts had identical characteristics as follows: women (51%), performance status ≤1 (95.7%), median age at diagnosis (60 years), and metastasis at diagnosis (83%). Median OS was 26.87 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 23–31.08) in the long-term survivor group (LS group) and 9.79 months (95% CI 5.75–11.86) in the control group (C group). Potential factors of long-term survival were explored with a logistic model (LS group vs. C group). Three factors were identified as significant prognostic factors in the univariate analysis: lymphopenia (odds ratio [OR] ref: yes = 0.26), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; OR ref >5 = 0.31), and peritoneal carcinomatosis (OR ref: yes = 0.40). NLR was the only remaining factor in our backward selection procedure.

Conclusion

A significant subset of patients with mPDAC can achieve long-term survival (≥18 months) in 2018. We identified low NLR as a significant prognostic factor associated with long-term survival in mPDAC.

Implications for Practice

Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) is one of the most lethal types of cancer. A subset of patients with mPDAC can achieve long-term survival (≥18 months) with a modern chemotherapy regimen, such as FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel. We identified low neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a significant prognostic factor associated with long-term survival in mPDAC. Prognostic factors such as NLR might allow accurate selection of patients with mPDAC in order to consider individual therapeutic approaches. NLR should be used as a stratification factor in clinical trials.
Composite action of fixings to gypsum boards acting in shear based on material properties
Authors: Stergiopoulos Marios , Lawson R. Mark , Lopez Pauline
Published: June 2019

The composite behaviour of fixings acting in shear between gypsum board and thin steel sections depends on the effective properties of the board material in compression at the base of the fixing and the contribution of the head of the fixing as it rotates. An elastic method is presented to determine the stiffness of the fixings, which uses the effective elastic modulus of the gypsum board determined from a ‘dowel’ test in bearing based on the BS EN 383:2007 test. The deformation of the board in front of the fixing was determined by finite-element (FE) modelling as acting over a constant strain zone of approximately 1·5 times the fixing diameter. A plastic method is also presented to determine the shear resistance of fixings into gypsum board based on the compression resistance obtained from a dowel test on the BS EN 383:2007 test. The theory is compared with the results of FE models using Abaqus for 3·5 mm dia. fixings into 12·5 mm thick gypsum board and with tests on fixings in shear and dowel tests; the correlation is shown to be good. A small-scale push test is proposed to determine fixing properties in shear.
Establishment of leucaena in Australia
Authors: Buck Stuart , Rolfe Joe , Lemin Craig , English Bernie
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala ssp. glabrata) is a highly productive tropical perennial legume used primarily in extensive beef grazing systems across northern Australia. Its productivity provides substantial benefits to grazing businesses and economically significant areas of leucaena have been established in Queensland, with much smaller areas in both the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Specific environmental conditions (particularly soil type) and management practices are required to obtain reliable establishment and high productivity from leucaena-grass grazing systems. Significant research, development and extension have been undertaken in northern Australia, particularly in central Queensland, resulting in management packages which ensure establishment reliability and long-term productivity. However expansion into new areas can be constrained by regionally specific establishment issues. Adaptation of known establishment and management practices together with research and development are required for leucaena-grass grazing systems in new regions.
Leucaena shows potential in Northern Inland New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Harris Carol , Boschma Suzanne , Brennan Mark , Borg Lauren , Harden Steven , Cullis Brian
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.A study was conducted during 2013–2017 to evaluate the potential of 5 cultivars/experimental lines of leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) at 2 sites in Northern Inland NSW. In this frost-prone, summer-dominant rainfall region, all cultivars/lines established well and survival was >70% at Bingara and >95% at Manilla. Cultivars Wondergraze and Cunningham were the most productive, producing up to approximately 2.4 t DM/ha y 1.9 t DM/ha per growing season at Bingara and Manilla, respectively. Tropical grass establishment in the alleys was poor with plant productivity inversely related to leucaena productivity. Although this study has confirmed the persistence and productive potential of leucaena, the challenges around tropical grass establishment and persistence as well as the weed potential of leucaena in this region need to be addressed before broad-scale use could be recommended in Northern Inland NSW.
A preliminary study of spatial distribution and plant density in a leucaena-grass planting in north Corrientes, Argentina
Authors: Gándara Luis , Pereira Mercedes M. , Stup Marcos
Published: June 2019

Poster presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
An update on leucaena toxicity: Is inoculation with Synergistes jonesii necessary?
Authors: Shelton H. Max , Kerven Graham , Dalzell Scott A.
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.Concern about mimosine toxicity and its management has contributed to the restricted adoption of leucaena as a forage for ruminants. The toxicity is a function of the antimitotic effects of mimosine, which is rapidly converted to also toxic compounds, isomers of hydroxypyridone (DHP), by plant and microbial enzymes. Work by R.J. Jones and colleagues (1960‒1994) identified a rumen bacterium (Synergistes jonesii) capable of degrading DHP, and rumen fluid containing this bacterium was subsequently made available in Australia as a commercial inoculum for cattle producers.Research by University of Queensland and CSIRO over 15 years, commencing in 2003, found evidence for another pathway of toxin management in Indonesia, where hundreds of Balinese farmers had fed uninoculated Bali bulls (Bos javanicus) up to 100% leucaena without experiencing toxicity symptoms, apart from an initial 1‒2 week period while their cattle became adapted to the new diet. Tests showed that the Indonesian cattle were not degrading all DHP, as it appeared in high concentrations in urine samples, predominantly as 2,3-DHP and almost all (>97%) in a conjugated form. The conjugating compounds (glucuronic acid and sulfate compounds), produced in the liver, appeared to be the major pathway for neutralizing the toxicity of DHP. Other work revealed that S. jonesii was a ubiquitous organism detectable in the rumen fluid of animals in all countries but always as a minor population, often below the level of detection.Since the Indonesian cattle fed leucaena suffered mimosine toxicity symptoms for only a short time before quickly recovering, we hypothesize that conjugation of DHP by the liver was the major detoxification pathway for these animals. This detoxification pathway is also operative in Australia and other countries but further studies are needed to determine its significance.
Leucaena for paper industry in Gujarat, India: Case study
Authors: Khanna N. K. , Shukla O. P. , Gogate M. G. , Narkhede S. L.
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.India is one of the major producers/consumers of paper and pulp products (3–4% of global share). Approximately one-fourth of industry raw material has come from wood-based plantations from the 1990s onwards. The greatest development challenge faced by the industry since that time is sourcing robust raw material from agroforestry on private lands. Following genetic improvement of leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) and realization of its potential as a multiple-use species, it was introduced into India in 1980 under an international cooperation effort with support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). It has since spread across the country as a panacea for rural needs of fuel wood, small timber and cattle forage.The paper industry has found that it has potential as raw material for paper making. One of the largest Indian paper companies is JK Paper Ltd, which has an annual production capacity of 550,000 t/yr with 3 integrated pulp and paper plants located at Songadh (Gujarat), Rayagada (Orissa) and Kagaznagar (Telangana) producing writing and printing paper and virgin packaging boards.This case study describes the leucaena farm forestry plantation program initiated by JK Paper Ltd, Unit CPM (Central Pulp Mills). The unit, under its agroforestry and farm forestry plantation approach, planted leucaena plantations in 2009-2010 in parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh States. To motivate farmers in the mill’s catchment area, and to build confidence in on-farm plantations, exposure visits were arranged to Andhra Pradesh, where huge tracts of agricultural land were under leucaena plantations. As a result, to date, this unit has engaged >7,800 farmers who have established leucaena plantations covering an area of >18,400 ha.A robust plantation R&D network addressed issues such as seed treatment, seed germination, rhizobial inoculation, geometry of plantations, agro-forestry models, selection and development of high production clones, establishment of clonal seed orchards, genetic improvement through mutation techniques and hybridization programs for wood quality improvement.
The evolutionary history of Leucaena: Recent research, new genomic resources and future directions
Authors: Abair Alexander , Hughes Colin E. , Bailey C. Donovan
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.Ancestral genome duplication, genomic diploidization, allopatric diploid speciation and recent allotetraploidy (hybrid tetraploid formation) have all contributed to the complex evolutionary history of the genus Leucaena Benth. (Leguminosae: Caesalpinioideae: mimosoid clade). This complexity makes Leucaena an exemplary group to investigate the impacts of these diverse mechanisms on plant speciation across time and space. Furthermore, this complex evolutionary history offers unique opportunities and challenges for translational applied research to improve the use of Leucaena in agroforestry, livestock production, soil stabilization and enrichment and biofuels. Here we review and synthesize historical and recent research on the evolutionary history of Leucaena and highlight the availability of new genomic data resources and tools.
Sterile leucaena becomes a reality?
Authors: McMillan Hayley E. , Liu Guoquan , Shelton H. Max , Dalzell Scott A. , Godwin Ian D. , Gamage Harshi , Sharman Cleo , Lambrides Cristopher J.
Published: June 2019

Keynote paper presented at the International Leucaena Conference, 1‒3 November 2018, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.A research program to develop sterile leucaena has commenced to enhance red-meat production in additional regions of Australia including Western Australia, Northern Territory and New South Wales, where growing seeded leucaena is not currently permitted or encouraged. In this study we report on the development of methodology using a mutagenizing agent, EMS (ethyl methanesulfonate), to cause mutations in the self-fertile commercial leucaena cultivar, Redlands. Several experiments to determine the optimum rate of EMS have been completed and first generation mutagenized plants (M0) established in the field at Redlands Research Station, Cleveland, Queensland, Australia. An EMS concentration of 0.35% applied to germination paper proved the best method to achieve a target emergence percentage of 50%. To date, 27 of 179 mutagenized M0 seedless plants are considered to be putatively sterile. A further 1,200 M0 plants have been established in the field providing an even greater chance of identifying sterile leucaena plants with the desired forage quality and psyllid-resistance attributes.
Application of solar energy in the initial crude oil treatment process in oil fields
Authors: Mammadov F
Published: June 2019

Because of rich solar and oil reserves in the Absheron Peninsula (latitude 40º 26’ N and longitude 49º 46’ E) of Azerbaijan, application of solar energy in the oil treatment process in the oil fields was considered. An experimental plant with double module parabolic through concentrators was developed, built and tested. The dependence of the plant’s oil treatment opportunity on solar radiation changes through months of the year was determined. The use of solar energy in the oil industry gives the opportunity for fossil fuels to be partly economized, and to improve the conditions of work, safety measures and ecology.
Household energy, indoor air pollution and child respiratory health in South Africa
Authors: Barnes Brendon , Mathee Angela , Thomas Elizabeth , Bruce Nigel
Published: June 2019

Indoor air pollution due to the indoor burning of polluting fuels has been associated with Acute Lower Respiratory Infections (ALRI) amongst children less than five years old. This paper reviews evidence of the association between household energy, indoor air pollution and child ALRI in South Africa. Studies show evidence consistent with the international literature with the likelihood of ALRI between 2 and 4 amongst children living in households using polluting fuels compared to households using electricity. Indoor air pollution is responsible for the deaths of up to 1 400 children annually. Interven-tions have demonstrated 46 – 97% lower pollution concentrations compared to open fires. However, the sustainability of selected interventions has been questioned in certain contexts. The paper discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence and highlights opportunities for further research.
The use of liquefied petroleum gas by South African low-income urban households: A case study
Authors: Mohlakoana Nthabiseng , Annecke Wendy
Published: June 2019

At the end of 2005 and in 2006, the Western Cape suffered extended blackouts. The cuts came as a shock and customers were loud in their criticism of Eskom and the City of Cape Town’s failure to provide a reliable electricity supply. The utility Eskom’s responses included the introduction of an aggressive Demand Side Management (DSM) programme with the goal of saving electricity and reducing the need to shed customers. In Khayelitsha, Cape Town, the DSM programme entailed an exchange and subsidy programme: households were encouraged to swop their two-plate electric stoves for Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) stoves. This intervention is the subject of this paper. The results of the study were analysed in terms of the socio-economic characteristics of the sample interviewed, multiple fuel use and transition trends in households in urban areas, changes in behaviour in electricity and LPG use, changing perceptions of LPG and the impact of the intervention. Previous studies in household energy use showed that people perceived LPG to be dangerous saying that it posed a greater danger to the household than paraffin since it might explode. Surprisingly, during the electricity power cuts in 2006, people in low-income communities, readily accepted LPG stoves in great numbers and a year later, up to 89% of the households surveyed, reported still using LPG for cooking.