bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novosti pri obravnavi arterijske hipertenzije pri otrocih in mladostnikih glede na ameriške (2017) in evropske (2016) smernice
Authors: Rus Rina R , Marčun Varda Nataša
Published: November 2020

Arterijska hipertenzija se pri otrocih redkeje pojavlja kot pri odraslih, vendar pa je pomemben dejavnik tveganja za zgodnejši pojav srčno-žilnih bolezni v odrasli dobi. Namen prispevka je predstaviti zadnje ameriške in evropske smernice za obravnavo in zdravljenje arterijske hipertenzije pri otrocih in jih smiselno prenesti na slovenska tla.
Link between MnSOD Ala16Val (rs4880) polymorphism and asthma risk is insignificant from sequential meta-analysis
Authors:   Department of Restorative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, University of Ha’il, Ha’il-2440, Saudi Arabia, Alhobeira Hazza A
Published: November 2020

The mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) enzyme protects lungs against oxidative stress by neutralizing the free radical superoxide produced in the respiratory function. This has relevance to asthma. Therefore, it is of interest to describe the potential effect of MnSOD Ala16Val genetic polymorphism to asthma risk. Known data in this context is inconclusive in nature. The possible link between MnSOD Ala16Val polymorphism and asthma is explored using sequence meta-analysis. Data from the pooled analysis of MnSOD Ala16Val polymorphism using five genetic models i.e., allelic (Val vs. Ala: p=0.846; OR=1.033, 95% CI=0.742 to 1.440) is discussed. Homozygous (Val Val vs. Ala Ala: p=0.517; OR=1.307, 95% CI=0.582 to 2.932) and heterozygous (Val Ala vs. Ala Ala: p=0.307; OR=1.138, 95% CI=0.888 to 1.459) data using the described models are documented. Data from the dominant model (Val Val + Val Ala vs. Ala Ala: p=0.301; OR=1.289, 95% CI=0.797 to 2.085) and the recessive model (Val Val vs. Val Ala + Ala Ala: p=0.761; OR=0.924, 95% CI=0.555 to 1.538) analyses for several ethnic subgroups in this context is reported.
Identification of protein targets in red complex organisms binding with resveratrol
Authors:   Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Pothapur Keshaav Krishnaa
Published: November 2020

Periodontitis is attributed to the dental biofilm formation caused by various Red complex organisms are a group of organisms linked with periodontal diseases. Therefore, it is of interest to identify potential targets from the red complex organisms to bind with the herbal compound resveratrol (E - 5 - (4 - hydroxy styryl) benzene 1,3 diol). We report a list of potential proteins having optimal drug like binding features with the herbal agent Resveratrol for further consideration. We used the STITCH v.5 pipeline using VICMPred and VirulentPred tools to identify such targets as potential virulent factors in the red complex organisms. We considered the strains of Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277, Treponema denticola ATCC 35405 and Tannerella forsythia ATCC 43037 in the red complex pathogens for this analysis. Protein targets in the red complex organisms with optimal binding features with the herbal compound resveratrol were thus identified and reported for further consideration.
Identification of key regulators in parathyroid adenoma using an integrative gene network analysis
Authors:   Institute of Computer Science & Information Technology, Department of Mathematics, Magadh University, Bodh Gaya-824234 (Bihar, India), Imam Nikhat
Published: November 2020

Parathyroid adenoma (PA) is marked by a certain benign outgrowth in the surface of parathyroid glands. The transcriptome analysis of parathyroid adenomas can provide a deep insight into actively expressed genes and transcripts. Hence, we analyzed and compared the gene expression profiles of parathyroid adenomas and healthy parathyroid gland tissues from database name. We identified a total of 280 differentially expressed genes (196 up-regulated, 84 down-regulated), which are involved in a wide array of biological processes. We further constructed a gene interaction network and analyzed its topological properties to know the network structure and its hidden mechanism. This will help to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying parathyroid adenoma development. We thus identified 13 key regulators (PRPF19, SMC3, POSTN, SNIP1, EBF1, MEIS2, PAX9, SCUBE2, WNT4, ARHGAP10, DOCK5, CAV1 and VSIR), which are deep-rooted from top to bottom in the gene interaction network forming a backbone for the network. The structural features of the network are probably maintained by crosstalk between important genes within the network along with associated functional modules. Thus, gene-expression profiling and network approach could be used to provide an independent platform to glen insights from available clinical data.
Anticancer effects and lysosomal acidification in A549 cells by astaxanthin from Haematococcus lacustris
Authors:   Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras (Guindy Campus), Chennai, India-600 025, Ramamoorthy K
Published: November 2020

Astaxanthin (AXN) is known to have health benefits by epidemiological studies. Therefore, it is of interest to assess the effect of AXN (derived from indigenous unicellular green alga Haematococcus lacustris) to modulate cell cycle arrest, lysosomal acidification and eventually apoptosis using in vitro in A549 lung cancer cells. Natural extracts of astaxanthin were obtained by standardized methods as reported earlier and characterized by standard HPLC and MS. Treatment of A549 cells with AXN (purified fraction) showed significant reduction in cell viability (about 50%) as compared to crude extract at 50µM concentration. Thus, we show the anticancer effects and lysosomal acidification in A549 cells by Astaxanthin from Haematococcus lacustris for further consideration. Together, our results demonstrated the anticancer potential of AXN from Haematococcus lacustris, which is found to be mediated via its ability to induce cell cycle arrest, lysosomal acidification and apoptotic induction.
Paleośrodowiskowe znaczenie zmian tempa i charakteru sedymentacji osadów jeziora Jelonek w Borach Tucholskich = Paleoenvironmental significance of changes in the rate and type of sedimentation in Lake Jelonek within Poland’s Tuchola Pine Forest (Bory Tucholskie)
Authors: Kramkowski Mateusz
Published: November 2020

This paper presents the matter of the environmental reconstruction of laminated lacustrine sediments from the Younger Dryas through to the present day, in particular in respect of microlithofacial analysis and sedimentation rate. Lake Jelonek is located within the Tuchola Pine Forest of northern Poland (at 53°45’58N, 18°23’30E). It occupies a subglacial channel immediately adjacent to the Wda Valley. The lake covers 19.9 ha and has a maximum depth of 13.8 m. In 2014, overlapping sediment cores JEL14 (14.23 m) were collected from that deepest part, in order for a full sediment profile including the younger Dryas and the Holocene to be created. Most of the sediment is found to be laminated. Sedimentation rate was reconstructed for the lake, along with microlithofacial variability of different sections of the sediment. The results obtained were related to an age depth model based on 14 AMS radiocarbon dates, varve chronology and the Askja AD 1875 cryptotephra; and was correlated with pollen profiles. The Holocene sediment record of Lake Jelonek exhibits differences between low and high sedimentation rate intervals and varved and non-varved intervals. From the beginning of the Holocene through to the Subatlantic period, sedimentation proved to be a stable phenomenon. However, in the Subatlantic period, the average sedimentation rate increased to 7.7 mm per year from 2.2 mm, with maximum rates even reaching 15.3 mm/year. This period is reflected in a lack of lamination and the appearance of redeposited deposits. These changes prove particularly sensitive to local impact, with distinct alternations of low and high sedimentation rates and varved and non-varved intervals. The most probable drivers for the observed variability reflect a combination of changes of climate plus anthropogenic deforestation during periods of settlement that enhanced the sensitivity of the lake to wind stress. A summary of all analyses allowed for the identification of periods of rapid change in sedimentation, and – indirectly – for the reproduction of changes in the water level and anthropopressure in and around Lake Jelonek. Such results contribute to a better understanding of local influences on fluctuations in lake sedimentation processes characteristic for the north of Poland, but also Central Europe more widely.
Political Will, Political Skill, Network Resources and Personal Reputation: A Serial Two-Mediator Model
Authors: Demirbağ Orkun , Demir Hale , Yozgat Uğur
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Although social capital and positive reputation in organizations are essential for career success, there is a limited perspective in the literature on the political characteristics (motivation and ability) that enable one to acquire and develop the two elements. This study seeks to investigate the sequential role of political skill and network resources as serial mediators of the political will–personal reputation relationship. Methodology: In total, what provided data for the study were 457 sales executives from 13 different sectors in the cities of İstanbul, Kocaeli, and Bursa, which is an economically leading region of western Turkey. Executives rated their political will, political skill network resources, and personal reputation. Based on the complementary theories of political influence, social network, and signaling, we analyzed the relationships between constructs with structural equation modeling. Findings: Political skill mediated the relationship between political will and network resources, network resources mediated the relationship between political skill and personal reputation, while political skill and network resources sequentially mediated the relationship between political will and personal reputation. Implications: The data were collected from a single source. Practical Implications: Political will, political skill training, and social networks may help individuals manage their personal reputation at work, thus benefiting their careers. Originality/Value: This is one of the first studies to sequentially investigate how individuals’ characteristics (motivation and ability) develop their social network and personal reputation at work. Moreover, theories of political influence, social capital, and signaling were jointly used for the first time ever.
A hybrid CNN-LiGRU acoustic modeling using raw waveform sincnet for Hindi ASR
Authors: KUMAR ANKIT , Aggarwal Rajesh Kumar
Published: November 2020

Deep Neural Network (DNN) is currently playing the most vital role in Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR). Convolution Neural Network (CNN) and Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) are the advanced versions of DNN. CNN and RNN are right to deal with spatial and temporal properties of the speech signal, respectively, and both properties have a higher impact on accuracy. In today’s scenario, many acoustic modeling techniques often switches due to the battle of CNNs and RNNs. In the last few years, CNN, with raw speech signal, shows their superiority over precomputed acoustic features. Recently, a novel first convolution layer named SincNet was proposed to produce the interpretable filters with better accuracy. In this work, we proposed a hybrid SincNet-CNN-RNN architecture with low computation cost and high accuracy. Different configurations of the hybrid model were extensively examined to achieve this goal. All experiments were performed on the Hindi speech dataset.
Are Surrogate Markers for Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis Remission Reliable?
Authors: Crisologo Peter A. , Malone Matthew , La Fontaine Javier , Oz Orhan , Bhavan Kavita , Nichols Adam , Lavery Lawrence A.
Published: November 2020

Background

We aimed to evaluate surrogate markers commonly used in the literature for diabetic foot osteomyelitis remission after initial treatment for diabetic foot infections (DFIs).

Methods

Thirty-five patients with DFIs were prospectively enrolled and followed for 12 months. Osteomyelitis was determined from bone culture and histologic analysis initially and for recurrence. Fisher exact and χ2 tests were used for dichotomous variables and Student t and Mann-Whitney U tests for continuous variables (α = .05).

Results

Twenty-four patients were diagnosed as having osteomyelitis and 11 as having soft-tissue infections. Four patients (16.7%) with osteomyelitis had reinfection based on bone biopsy. The success of osteomyelitis treatment varied based on the surrogate marker used to define remission: osteomyelitis infection (16.7%), failed wound healing (8.3%), reulceration (20.8%), readmission (16.7%), amputation (12.5%). There was no difference in outcomes among patients who were initially diagnosed as having osteomyelitis versus soft-tissue infections. There were no differences in osteomyelitis reinfection (16.7% versus 45.5%; P = .07), wounds that failed to heal (8.3% versus 9.1%; P = .94), reulceration (20.8% versus 27.3%; P = .67), readmission for DFIs at the same site (16.7% versus 36.4%; P = .20), amputation at the same site after discharge (12.5% versus 36.4%; P = .10). Osteomyelitis at the index site based on bone biopsy indicated that failed therapy was 16.7%. Indirect markers demonstrated a failure rate of 8.3% to 20.8%.

Conclusions

Most osteomyelitis markers were similar to markers in soft-tissue infection. Commonly reported surrogate markers were not shown to be specific to identify patients who failed osteomyelitis treatment compared with patients with soft-tissue infections. Given this, these surrogate markers are not reliable for use in practice to identify osteomyelitis treatment failure.
Incidence and Recovery of Acute Kidney Injury in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients with Foot Infections
Authors: Ryan Easton C. , Crisologo Peter Andrew , Oz Orhan K. , Fontaine Javier La , Wukich Dane K. , Malone Matthew , Lavery Lawrence A.
Published: November 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and recovery of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients admitted to the hospital with and without diabetes mellitus (DM) with foot infections.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 294 patients with DM and 88 without DM admitted to the hospital with foot infections. The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes guidelines were used to define AKI. Recovery was divided into three categories: full, partial, and no recovery within 90 days of the index AKI.

Results: The AKI incidence was 3.0 times higher in patients with DM (DM 48.5% versus no DM 23.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.74–5.19; P < .01). Acute kidney injury incidence was similar at each stage in people with and without DM (stage 1, DM 58.1% versus no DM 47.6%; stage 2, DM 23.3% versus no DM 33.3%, and stage 3, DM 18.6% versus no DM 19.1%). Twenty-nine patients with diabetes had a second AKI event and four had a third event. In patients without DM, one patient had a second AKI. Cumulative AKI incidence was 4.7 times higher in people with DM (DM 60.9% versus no DM 25.0%; 95% CI, 2.72–8.03; P < .01). Patients with diabetes progressed to chronic kidney disease or in chronic kidney disease stage 39.4% of the time. Patients without diabetes progressed 16.7% of the time, but this trend was not significant (P = .07). Complete recovery was 3.8 times more likely in patients without diabetes (95% CI, 1.26–11.16; P = .02).

Conclusions: Acute kidney injury incidence is higher in patients with diabetes, and complete recovery after an AKI is less likely compared to patients without diabetes.
Wine Economics
Authors: Castriota Stefano
Published: November 2020

A comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the economics of the production, distribution, and consumption of wine.

Wine economics is a growing subfield that examines the economics of the production, distribution, and consumption of wine. In this book, Stefano Castriota takes a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of wine economics, drawing on literature from industrial organization, welfare economics, economic policy, political economy, management, finance, health economics, law, and criminology. 

Castriota explores how wine markets operate and how they are regulated, covering such diverse topics as the health economics of wine consumption (both the positive health effects associated with moderate wine intake and the negative effects of alcohol abuse), the competition and profitability of wineries, the function of wine as an investment, and the quality of wine. He examines differences between the wine industries in the Old World and the New World, comparing small, family-owned wineries with larger conglomerates, and analyzes the regulation of wine in the United States versus the European Union. He concludes with  a series of recommendations to ensure open and efficient wine markets while protecting public health. 

Originally published in Italy as Economia del Vino, this English translation has been extensively revised. It includes additional material focusing on the English-speaking countries of the New World, particularly the regulatory environment of the United States and the lingering effects of Prohibition.

The open access edition of this book was made possible by generous funding from Arcadia – a charitable fund of Lisbet Rausing and Peter Baldwin.
How geometry shapes division of labor
Authors: Staps Merlijn , Tarnita Corina
Published: November 2020

A mathematical model shows how the shape of early multicellular organisms may have helped cells evolve specialized roles.
An Ambivalent Recognition: The Academisation of Nursing in Switzerland
Authors: Toffel Kevin
Published: November 2020

Despite the academisation process the profession goes through in many western countries for decades, the level of autonomy of the nursing profession is still relatively low; nurses remain broadly under the domination of doctors and hospitals. The opening in 2009 at the University of Lausanne of a master’s degree marked a new stage in the history of the profession in Switzerland. With new resources, the emergence of this nurses’ profile disrupting professional relationships, both with respect to doctors as well as within the profession. After having presented the stakes of going through an academic training based on scientific knowledge, the article shows the attempt of redefinition of the practical and symbolic roles to which it gives rise as well as some of the effects of this diploma and its resources are having on the professional relationships.
Exosomal cargoes in OSCC: current findings and potential functions
Authors: Zhao Chengzhi , Zhang Geru , Liu Jialing , Zhang Chenghao , Yao Yang , Liao Wen
Published: November 2020

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent malignancy in head and neck cancer, with high recurrence and mortality. Early diagnosis and efficient therapeutic strategies are vital for the treatment of OSCC patients. Exosomes can be isolated from a broad range of different cell types, implicating them as important factors in the regulation of human physiological and pathological processes. Due to their abundant cargo including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, exosomes have played a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic role across multiple diseases, including cancer. In this review, we summarize recent findings concerning the content within and participation of exosomes relating to OSCC and their roles in tumorigenesis, proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance. We conclude this review by looking ahead to their potential utility in providing new methods for treating OSCC to inspire further research in this field.
In silico structural homology modeling and characterization of multiple N-terminal domains of selected bacterial Tcps
Authors: Alaidarous Mohammed
Published: November 2020

Several bacterial pathogens produce Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domain-containing protein homologs that are important for subverting the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling cascades in hosts. Consequently, promoting the persistence and survival of the bacterial pathogens. However, the exact molecular mechanisms elucidating the functional characteristics of these bacterial proteins are not clear. Physicochemical and homology modeling characterization studies have been conducted to predict the conditions suitable for the stability and purification of these proteins and to predict their structural properties. The outcomes of these studies have provided important preliminary data for the drug discovery pipeline projects. Here, using in silico physicochemical and homology modeling tools, we have reported the primary, secondary and tertiary structural characteristics of multiple N-terminal domains of selected bacterial TIR domain-containing proteins (Tcps). The results show variations between the primary amino acid sequences, secondary structural components and three-dimensional models of the proteins, suggesting the role of different molecular mechanisms in the functioning of these proteins in subverting the host immune system. This study could form the basis of future experimental studies advancing our understanding of the molecular basis of the inhibition of the host immune response by the bacterial Tcps.
Neurocognitive effects of six ketamine infusions and the association with antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant bipolar depression: a preliminary study
Authors: Zheng Wei , Zhou Yan-Ling , Wang Cheng-Yu , Lan Xiao-Feng , Zhang Bin , Yang Ming-Zhe , Nie Sha , Ning Yu-Ping
Published: November 2020

Objective

The N-methyl-D-aspartate subtype glutamate receptor antagonist ketamine has rapid antidepressant and antisuicidal effects in treating treatment-resistant bipolar depression (TRBD). The neurocognitive effects of repeated ketamine infusions in TRBD are not known.

Methods

Six intravenous infusions of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg over 40 min) were administered on a Monday–Wednesday–Friday schedule during a 12-day period on 16 patients with TRBD followed by a 2-week observational period. The assessment of neurocognitive function was conducted using the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery at baseline, 13 and 26 days. Tasks were designed to test speed of processing, working memory, visual learning and verbal learning.

Results

A significant improvement was found only in scores of speed of processing (F = 9.9, p = 0.001) after a 2-week observational period, which was accounted for by the improvement of depression symptoms. There were no significant changes over time in terms of working memory, visual learning and verbal learning. Pearson correlation analysis showed that the improvement of depression symptoms through six ketamine infusions was greater among TRBD patients with lower working memory at baseline (r = 0.54, p = 0.03). In multiple regression analysis, the significant correlation was still maintained (beta = 0.67, t = 2.2, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

This preliminary study indicated that six ketamine infusions were not harmful but were slightly beneficial for speed of processing in TRBD. However, this change was mainly accounted for the improvement of depression symptoms over time. Lower baseline working memory appears to be associated with greater antidepressant response after completion of six ketamine infusions in patients with TRBD.
Increased expression of POLR3G predicts poor prognosis in transitional cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Xianhui , Zhang Weiyu , Wang Huanrui , Lai Chin-Hui , Xu Kexin , Hu Hao
Published: November 2020

Background

Previous studies have shown that RNA Polymerase III Subunit G (POLR3G) has oncogenic effects in cultured cells and mice. However, the role of POLR3G in transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) has not been reported. This study explores the potential of POLR3G as a novel molecular marker for TCC.

Methods

The RNA sequencing data and clinical information of patients with TCC were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas official website. Transcriptome analysis was performed as implemented in the edgeR package to explore whether POLR3G was up-regulated in TCC tissues compared to normal bladder tissues. The expression of POLR3G in bladder cancer cell line T24 and human uroepithelial cell line SV-HUC-1 were detected via quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Correlations between POLR3G expression and clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test or Kruskal-Wallis H test. Clinicopathological characteristics associated with overall survival were explored using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analyses. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to explore the associated gene sets enriched in different POLR3G expression phenotypes and the online tool Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER) was used to explore the correlation between POLR3G expression and tumor immune infiltration in TCC.

Results

Transcriptome analysis showed that POLR3G was significantly up-regulated in TCC tissues compared to normal bladder tissues. Furthermore, qRT-PCR revealed high expression of POLR3G in T24 cells compared to SV-HUC-1 cells. Overall, POLR3G expression was associated with race, tumor status, tumor subtype, T classification, and pathological stage. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that higher POLR3G expression was associated with lower overall survival. The univariate Cox regression model revealed that age at diagnosis, pathological stage, and POLR3G expression were associated with prognosis of TCC patients. Further multivariate analyses identified these three clinicopathological characteristics as independent prognostic factors for overall survival. GSEA analysis showed that several gene sets associated with tumor development and metastasis, including TGF-β signaling, PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling, and IL6-JAK-STAT3 signaling, were significantly enriched in POLR3G high expression phenotype. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that the expression of POLR3G was significantly correlated with infiltrating levels of immune cells, including CD8+ T cells, neutrophils, and dendritic cells; and the expression of POLR3G was also significantly correlated with the expression of immune checkpoint molecules, such as PD1, PD-L1, PD-L2, CTLA4, LAG3, HAVCR2, and TIGIT.

Conclusions

POLR3G was up-regulated in TCC and high POLR3G expression correlated with poor prognosis. POLR3G can potentially be used as a prognostic marker for TCC and might be of great value in predicting the response to immunotherapy.
A case against default effect sizes in sport and exercise science
Authors: Caldwell Aaron , Vigotsky Andrew D.
Published: November 2020

Recent discussions in the sport and exercise science community have focused on the appropriate use and reporting of effect sizes. Sport and exercise scientists often analyze repeated-measures data, from which mean differences are reported. To aid the interpretation of these data, standardized mean differences (SMD) are commonly reported as a description of effect size. In this manuscript, we hope to alleviate some confusion. First, we provide a philosophical framework for conceptualizing SMDs; that is, by dichotomizing them into two groups: magnitude-based and signal-to-noise SMDs. Second, we describe the statistical properties of SMDs and their implications. Finally, we provide high-level recommendations for how sport and exercise scientists can thoughtfully report raw effect sizes, SMDs, or other effect sizes for their own studies. This conceptual framework provides sport and exercise scientists with the background necessary to make and justify their choice of an SMD.
EFFECT OF YAMANIKADI CHOORNAM IN NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Boban Athira , KM Krishna Kumar , M Ramu
Published: November 2020

Non-alcoholic fatty liver is defined as the accumulation of fat in the liver parenchyma without inflammation in the absence of excess alcohol consumption. Its prevalence is increasing in the society due to westernized and changing life style. Higher incident rate are there among the obese and diabetic patients. As per the records from W.H.O, the number of chronic liver diseases including NAFLD had a steady growth in recent years. NAFLD exist as a risk factor in patients with heart diseases, kidney diseases and cancer. In Ayurveda, liver diseases are mentioned under the contexts of Udara and Kamala. NAFLD can be considered as a santarpanothavyadhi in which there is agnimandya and kaphamedo dushti. Eventually when sthanasramsaya takes place in the liver, the disease will manifest. A 60 year old male patient, with complaints of poor appetite, right upper quadrant discomfort and fatigue came with an USG report which showed grade II fatty infiltration of liver. On investigation slight elevation of SGPT was noted. Patient was advised to take Yamanikadi Choornam daily twice in the dose of 5 gm choorna with hot water as Anupana for 45 days. Yamanikadi Choornam is a formulation mentioned in Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Plihayakrut rogadhikar, having kaphamedohara deepana, pachana and hepatoprotective property. The fatty infiltration of the liver was found reduced to grade I and the liver function got normal at the time of completion of the treatment. The drug Yamanikadi Choorna was effective in improving liver function and reducing the fatty infiltration of the liver.
A CASE REPORT ON PRADHAMANA NASYA: AN AYURVEDIC POWDER INHALATION
Authors: P S Aswani , P P Pradeep Kumar , Nair Devi R , Radhakrishnan P
Published: November 2020

Nasal medication known as Nasya (medication through nasal route) is one among the Panchakarma (five internal bio-cleansing therapies) procedures which delivers drugs through the nasal route to cure ailments related to head and neck. Ayurvedic classics explain management of Sanyasa (coma) with immediate administration of most Tikshna (high potency) Nasya (medication through nasal route) and Pradhamana/Dhmapana Nasya (Nasya therapy by medicated powder insufflations). The present case report attempts to disclose the significance of an Ayurveda treatment modality Pradhamana/Dhmapana Nasya in an unanticipated medical condition (deep stupor) happened to a patient admitted to National Ayurveda Research Institute for Panchakarma (NARIP) Cheruthuruthy for the treatment of low back pain. On examination of the case, it was found that the patient was in deep stupor (Grade III state of awareness as per Grady coma Scale- and score seven on Glasgow coma scale GGCS). In this case, Rasnadi Choorna was selected for Pradhamana Nasya. The medicine was administered after placing the medicinal powder in a fine thin cotton cloth and a Pottali was made and it was just introduced into patent’s nostrils. Immediately after the administration of Pradhamana/Dhmapana Nasya the patient wake up from deep stupor state and became alert. This case report is an attempt to reveal the effect of Nasya in an unexpected medical condition and it also gives a new ray of hope to conditions of disturbed consciousness through nasal route of drug delivery.
PREPARATION OF KANTALAUHA BHASMA BY TWO DIFFERENT METHODS AND ITS SINDOORA NIRMANA: A COMPARATIVE PHARMACEUTICO-ANALYTICAL STUDY
Authors: K Sanoop , Shetty B Vinayachandra
Published: November 2020

According to Rasa Ratna Samucchaya, Kantalauha is considered as the best variety among Lauhas for Lauha Bhasma compared with Tikshna and Munda Lauha. The present study deals with the “Preparation of Kantalauha bhasma by two different methods and its Sindoora Nirmana- A Comparative Pharmaceutico-Analytical Study. Two different Kantalauha Bhasma and their Kanta Sindoora were prepared as per classical reference and the samples were subjected to Classical and Modern Analytical Parameters, XRD, EDX, SEM, FT-IR, and NPST. Pharmaceutically Kantalauha Bhasma 1 has attained Bhasma Siddhi Lakshanas in 16 Putas and Kantalauha Bhasma 2 in 3 Putas. Both the samples of Kanta Sindoora attained Sindoora Varna by 3 Putas. SEM analysis showed that Kantalauha Bhasma 1 and Kanta Sindoora 1 attained the smallest particle size. XRD showed the presence of compound Fe2O3 in all the samples. EDAX confirmed the presence of Fe, O2, Mg, Al, Si, S, K and Ca. The FT-IR analysis of all the samples shows the presence of 10 Absorption Peak frequencies cm-1. NPST proved the fineness and proper formation of Bhasma samples. Among the two different methods of Kantalauha Bhasma preparation, the 1st method is found better in yield wise and cost-wise. The second method saved the time as it attained Bhasma Siddhi Lakshanas within 3 puts. In the case of Kanta Sindoora, yield wise both the samples were found almost the same.
A New Generalized Weibull- Odd Frѐchet Family of Distributions: Statistical Properties and Applications
Authors: Usman A. , Doguwa S. I. S. , Alhaji B. B. , Imam A. T.
Published: November 2020

We introduced a new generalized Weibull- Odd Frѐchet family of distributions with three extra parameters and we derived some of its structural properties. We derived comprehensive mathematical properties which include moments, moment generating function, Entropies and Order Statistics. One family of this distribution called new generalized Weibull- Odd Frѐchet -Frѐchet distribution is used to fit two data sets using the MLE procedure. A Monte Carlo simulation is used to test the robustness of the parameters of this distribution, in terms of the bias and mean squared error. The results of fitting this new distribution to two different data sets suggest that the new distribution outperforms its competitors.
Nitrogen Indices, Nodulation and Yield of Mung Bean (Vigna radiate L.) as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Supply
Authors: Tahir Sheikh , Iqbal Sadaf , Baba Zahoor , Nazir Mudasir , Hamid Burhan , Rashid Aabroo
Published: November 2020

The present study was conducted to find out the impact of inorganic nutrients (Nitrogen @ 20 kgha-1 and Phosphorus 40 kgha-1) blended with and without biofertilizers (Rhizobium and PSB) on growth and yield of mung bean. Significant increments in seed yield of 31.07% followed by 23.34% were recorded from the plots exposed to 20 kgN/ha + 40 kgP2O5/ha along with dual inoculation by Rizobium and PSB (T9) and 20 kgN/ha + 40 kgP2O5/ha + Rizobium (T7). Highest seed yield (13.23 q/ha) realized under T9 supported by increased final aboveground dry matter (29.33% & 26.21%), pod percentage (26.33% & 17.45%) and test weight (17.50% & 11.13%) compared to chemical fertilizers (T4 & T5 respectively). Highest number of nodules (68.17) & nitrogen use efficiency (18.32 kg/kg) were recorded at flowering (50 DAS) stage of the crop under treatment-9. Functional relation between nodulation, NUE, AAR, pods plant-1 and yield were positive and linear (R2=0.987, 0.9987, 0.9501, 0.9115, respectively). To ascertain the higher productivity in mung bean it is recommended that the application of phosphorus @ 40 kgha-1 with starter dosage of N @ 20 kgha-1 along with dual inoculation by Rizobium and PSB should be applied for higher seed yield under temperate agro-ecological conditions.
Comparative Analysis of Optimum Maintenance Cost for Water Boreholes in South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Ezekafor S. C. , Agunwamba J. C.
Published: November 2020

Aims: This study considered the optimal maintenance cost of water boreholes for a multiple pumping scenario in South-East Nigeria. The objective of the study was to determine the optimal maintenance cost of water boreholes for the Southeastern region of Nigeria.

Place and Duration of Study: The data used in this study is secondary data obtained from selected community and commercial boreholes in the Abia State, Anambra State, Ebonyi State, Enugu State and Imo State.

Methodology: The linear model and the quadratic model were used to determine the cost parameters for the optimization of the maintenance cost of the water boreholes.

Results: The result of the study showed that the maintenance cost obtained for Anambra State is more adequate than the other states since it recorded a higher coefficient of determination value using the linear and quadratic model. Also, it was found the quadratic model was better than the linear model for the estimation of cost parameters used for determining the optimum maintenance cost of water boreholes in South-East Nigeria. The findings showed that the quadratic model recorded the best net savings for Abia, Anambra, and Enugu with the corresponding cost of ₦4,079,246.817, ₦5,198,716.141, and ₦4,767,680.392 respectively. It was found that the linear model recorded the best net savings for Ebonyi and Imo with the corresponding cost of ₦1,593,013.72 and ₦8,692,452.91 respectively. Hence, the quadratic models was identified as the best model for the estimation of cost parameters and enhance the performance of the optimal total operating cost of the water borehole model in South-East Nigeria.

Conclusion: The study concludes by recommending the quadratic model for the estimation of cost parameters for the optimization of maintenance cost of water boreholes until further studies prove otherwise.
Underdetection of Interstitial Lung Disease in Juvenile Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Foeldvari Ivan , Klotsche Jens , Hinrichs Bernd , Helmus Nicola , Kasapcopur Ozgur , Adrovic Amra , Sztajnbok Flavio , Terreri Maria Teresa , Anton Jordi , Smith Vanessa , Katsicas Maria , Kostik Mikhail , Vasquez‐Canizares Natalia , Avcin Tadej , Feldman Brian , Janarthanan Mahesh , Santos Maria Jose , Sawhney Sujata , Schonenberg‐Meinema Dieneke , Sifuentes‐Giraldo Walter‐Alberto , Alexeeva Ekaterina , Appenzeller Simone , Battagliotti Cristina , Berntson Lillemor , Bica Blanca , Costa‐Reis Patrícia , Eleftheriou Despina , Kallinich Tilmann , Lehman Thomas , Marrani Edoardo , Minden Kirsten , Nielsen Susan , Nuruzzaman Farzana , Patwardhan Anjali , Khubchandani Raju , Stanevicha Valda , Uziel Yosef , Torok Kathryn S.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Utilizing data obtained from a prospective, international, juvenile systemic sclerosis (SSc) cohort, the present study was undertaken to determine if pulmonary screening with forced vital capacity (FVC) and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLco) is sufficient to assess the presence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in comparison to high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in juvenile SSc.

Methods

The juvenile SSc cohort database was queried for patients enrolled from January 2008 to January 2020 with recorded pulmonary function tests (PFTs) parameters and HRCT to determine the discriminatory properties of PFT parameters, FVC, and DLco in detecting ILD.

Results

Eighty‐six juvenile SSc patients had both computed tomography imaging and FVC values for direct comparison. Using findings on HRCT as the standard measure of ILD presence, the sensitivity of FVC in detecting ILD in juvenile SSc was only 40%, the specificity was 77%, and area under the curve (AUC) was 0.58. Fifty‐eight juvenile SSc patients had both CT imaging and DLco values for comparison. The sensitivity of DLco in detecting ILD was 76%, the specificity was 70%, and AUC was 0.73.

Conclusion

The performance of PFTs in juvenile SSc to detect underlying ILD was quite limited. Specifically, the FVC, which is one of the main clinical parameters in adult SSc to detect and monitor ILD, would miss ~60% of children who had ILD changes on their accompanying HRCT. The DLco was more sensitive in detecting potential abnormalities on HRCT, but with less specificity than the FVC. These results support the use of HRCT in tandem with PFTs for the screening of ILD in juvenile SSc.
Microstructures and Properties of High‐Entropy Materials: Modeling, Simulation, and Experiments
Authors: Li Jia , Fang Qihong , Liaw Peter K.
Published: November 2020

The performances of high‐entropy materials (HEMs), including high‐entropy alloys, high‐entropy ceramics, and high‐entropy polymers, with unique characteristics (high mixing entropy, serious lattice distortion, and short‐range order) determined by experiments are out of the ordinary, such as the excellent mechanical properties. The important research methods on HEMs are briefly introduced from the physical modeling, multiscale simulation, and experiments at various scales. The microstructures (dislocation, twinning, grain boundary, and phase) and performances (mechanical property, physical property, chemical property, optical property, medical property, and irradiation property) are summarized. Future directions of research and development with a focus on modeling and simulation in HEMs are discussed. In the next, HEMs with the unique properties would be promising candidates for industrial applications beyond conventional alloys.
A Polymer Blend Substrate for Skeletal Muscle Cells Alignment and Photostimulation
Authors: Vurro Vito , Scaccabarozzi Alberto Davide , Lodola Francesco , Storti Filippo , Marangi Fabio , Ross Aaron Michael , Paternò Giuseppe Maria , Scotognella Francesco , Criante Luigino , Caironi Mario , Lanzani Guglielmo
Published: November 2020

Substrate engineering for steering cell growth is a wide and well‐established area of research in the field of modern biotechnology. Here we introduce a micromachining technique to pattern an inert and transparent polymer matrix blended with a photoactive polymer. We demonstrate that the obtained scaffold combines the capability to align with that to photostimulate living cells. This technology can open up new and promising applications, especially where cell alignment is required to trigger specific biological functions, e.g., generate powerful and efficient muscle contractions following an external stimulus.
Prediction of dementia of Alzheimer type by different types of subjective cognitive decline
Authors: Jessen Frank , Kleineidam Luca , Wolfsgruber Steffen , Bickel Horst , Brettschneider Christian , Fuchs Angela , Kaduszkiewicz Hanna , König Hans‐Helmut , Mallon Tina , Mamone Silke , Pabst Alexander , Pentzek Michael , Roehr Susanne , Weeg Dagmar , Jochen Werle , Weyerer Siegfried , Wiese Birgitt , Maier Wolfgang , Scherer Martin , Riedel‐Heller Steffi , Wagner Michael
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is a risk condition for dementia, including dementia of Alzheimer type (DAT).

Methods

We report sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) for conversion to all‐cause dementia, and DAT in different SCD types (decline in memory, assocated worries, longitudinal consitency, of the AgeCoDe study (n = 2.402, 12 years follow‐up).

Results

82.7% of those converting to any dementia and 84.4% of those converting with DAT at follow‐up, reported memory decline and fulfilled criteria of SCD at least at one time point before. SCD with worries at two consecutive time points showed a specificity of 92.2% for any dementia and also for DAT as well as a PPV of 44.3% for any dementia and of 36.9% for DAT at follow‐up at the expense of low sensitivity.

Discussion

Different SCD subtypes were either sensitive or specific for future all‐cause dementia and DAT in cognitively unimpaired individuals. Modest PPV of the most specific SCD subtypes were achieved in this low prevalence population.
Acyl Donor Intermediates in N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Catalysis: Acyl Azolium or Azolium Enolate?
Authors: Biswas Animesh , Neudörfl Jörg‐M. , Schlörer Nils E. , Berkessel Albrecht
Published: November 2020

Azolium enolates and acyl azolium cations have been proposed as intermediates in numerous N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyzed transformations. Acetyl azolium enolates were generated from the reaction of 2‐propenyl acetate with both saturated (SIPr) and aromatic (IPr) NHCs, isolated, and characterized (NMR, XRD). Protonation with triflic acid gave the corresponding acetyl azolium triflates which were isolated and characterized (NMR, XRD). Acyl azolium cations have been proposed as immediate precursors of the ester product, for example, in the redox esterification of α,β‐enals. Studies with d3‐acetyl azolium triflate suggest that ester formation originates instead from an azolium enolate intermediate. Furthermore, the acetyl azolium enolate selectively reacted with alcohol nucleophiles in the presence of amines. While the acetyl azolium cation did not react with alcohols, an ester‐selective reaction was induced by addition of base, by intermediate formation of the acetyl azolium enolate.
Heterocyclization Reagents for Rapid Assembly of N‐Fused Heteroarenes from Alkenes
Authors: Zhang Huihui , Wang Min , Wu Xinxin , Zhu Chen
Published: November 2020

N‐Fused heterocycles are of particular use and upmost importance in multiple fields. Herein, we disclose a conceptually new approach for the rapid assembly of N‐fused heteroarenes from alkenes. A portfolio of strategically designed heterocyclization reagents are readily prepared for the cascade reaction. A plethora of N‐fused heteroarenes including seven types of heterocyclic core are furnished. The protocol features a broad functional‐group compatibility and high product diversity, and provides a practical tool for late‐stage heteroarene elaboration.
The Network of Replication, Transcription, and Reverse Transcription of a Synthetic Genetic Cassette
Authors: Yang Hui , Eremeeva Elena , Abramov Mikhail , Herdewijn Piet
Published: November 2020

Synthetic nucleic acids, with four non‐canonical nucleobases, can function as genetic materials. A comprehensive analysis of PCR amplification, transcription, reverse transcription, and cloning was done to screen for alternative genetic monomers. A small library of six modified nucleobases was selected: the modified 2′‐deoxyribonucleoside (dZTPs) and ribonucleoside (rZTPs) triphosphates of 7‐deaza‐adenine, 5‐chlorouracil, 7‐deaza‐guanine or inosine together with 5‐fluorocytosine or 5‐bromocytosine. The fragments composed of one to four modified nucleotides (denoted as DZA) have been successfully recognized and transcribed to natural or modified RNA (denoted as RZA) by T7 RNA polymerase. The fully modified RZA fragment could be reverse transcribed and then amplified in the presence of various dZTPs. Noticeably, modified fragments could function as genetic templates in vivo by encoding the 678 base pair gene of a fluorescent protein in bacteria. These results demonstrate the existence of a fully simulated genetic circuit that uses synthetic materials.
Inverting the Enantiopreference of Nitrilase‐Catalyzed Desymmetric Hydrolysis of Prochiral Dinitriles by Reshaping the Binding Pocket with a Mirror‐Image Strategy
Authors: Yu Shanshan , Li Jinlong , Yao Peiyuan , Feng Jinhui , Cui Yunfeng , Li Jianjiong , Liu Xiangtao , Wu Qiaqing , Lin Jianping , Zhu Dunming
Published: November 2020

A mirror‐image strategy, that is, symmetry analysis of the substrate‐binding pocket, was applied to identify two key amino acid residues W170 and V198 that possibly modulate the enantiopreference of a nitrilase from Synechocystis sp. PCC6803 towards 3‐isobutyl glutaronitrile (1 a). Exchange of these two residues resulted in the enantiopreference inversion (S, 90 % ee to R, 47 % ee). By further reshaping the substrate‐binding pocket via routine site‐saturation and combinatorial mutagenesis, variant E8 with higher activity and stereoselectivity (99 % ee, R) was obtained. The mutant enzyme was applied in the preparation of optically pure (R)‐3‐isobutyl‐4‐cyanobutanoic acid ((R)‐2 a) and showed similar stereopreference inversion towards a series of 3‐substituted glutaronitriles. This study may offer a general strategy to switch the stereopreference of other nitrilases and other enzymes toward the desymmetric reactions of prochiral substrates with two identical reactive functional groups.