bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the emergence of P-Loop NTPase and Rossmann enzymes from a Beta-Alpha-Beta ancestral fragment
Authors: Longo Liam M , Jabłońska Jagoda , Vyas Pratik , Kanade Manil , Kolodny Rachel , Ben-Tal Nir , Tawfik Dan S
Published: December 2020

This article is dedicated to the memory of Michael G. Rossmann. Dating back to the last universal common ancestor, P-loop NTPases and Rossmanns comprise the most ubiquitous and diverse enzyme lineages. Despite similarities in their overall architecture and phosphate binding motif, a lack of sequence identity and some fundamental structural differences currently designates them as independent emergences. We systematically searched for structure and sequence elements shared by both lineages. We detected homologous segments that span the first βαβ motif of both lineages, including the phosphate binding loop and a conserved aspartate at the tip of β2. The latter ligates the catalytic metal in P-loop NTPases, while in Rossmanns it binds the nucleotide’s ribose moiety. Tubulin, a Rossmann GTPase, demonstrates the potential of the β2-Asp to take either one of these two roles. While convergence cannot be completely ruled out, we show that both lineages likely emerged from a common βαβ segment that comprises the core of these enzyme families to this very day.
Effect of dietary oil fromCamelina sativaon the growth performance, fillet fatty acid profile and gut microbiome of gilthead Sea bream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Huyben David , Rimoldi Simona , Ceccotti Chiara , Montero Daniel , Betancor Monica , Iannini Federica , Terova Genciana
Published: December 2020

Background

In the last two decades, research has focused on testing cheaper and sustainable alternatives to fish oil (FO), such as vegetable oils (VO), in aquafeeds. However, FO cannot be entirely replaced by VOs due to their lack of omega-3 (n-3) long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), particularly eicosapentaenoic (EPA; 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic (DHA; 22:6n-3) acids. The oilseed plant,Camelina sativa, may have a higher potential to replace FO since it can contains up to 40% of the omega-3 precursorsα-linolenic acid (ALA; 18:3n-3) and linoleic acid (LA; 18:2n-6).

Methods

A 90-day feeding trial was conducted with 600 gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) of 32.92 ±  0.31 g mean initial weight fed three diets that replaced 20%, 40% and 60% of FO with CO and a control diet of FO. Fish were distributed into triplicate tanks per diet and with 50 fish each in a flow-through open marine system. Growth performance and fatty acid profiles of the fillet were analysed. The Illumina MiSeq platform for sequencing of 16S rRNA gene and Mothur pipeline were used to identify bacteria in the faeces, gut mucosa and diets in addition to metagenomic analysis by PICRUSt.

Results and Conclusions

The feed conversion rate and specific growth rate were not affected by diet, although final weight was significantly lower for fish fed the 60% CO diet. Reduced final weight was attributed to lower levels of EPA and DHA in the CO ingredient. The lipid profile of fillets were similar between the dietary groups in regards to total saturated, monounsaturated, PUFA (n-3 and n-6), and the ratio of n-3/n-6. Levels of EPA and DHA in the fillet reflected the progressive replacement of FO by CO in the diet and the EPA was significantly lower in fish fed the 60% CO diet, while ALA was increased. Alpha and beta-diversities of gut bacteria in both the faeces and mucosa were not affected by any dietary treatment, although a few indicator bacteria, such asCorynebacteriumandRhodospirillales, were associated with the 60% CO diet. However, lower abundance of lactic acid bacteria, specificallyLactobacillus, in the gut of fish fed the 60% CO diet may indicate a potential negative effect on gut microbiota. PICRUSt analysis revealed similar predictive functions of bacteria in the faeces and mucosa, although a higher abundance ofCorynebacteriumin the mucosa of fish fed 60% CO diet increased the KEGG pathway of fatty acid synthesis and may act to compensate for the lack of fatty acids in the diet. In summary, this study demonstrated that up to 40% of FO can be replaced with CO without negative effects on growth performance, fillet composition and gut microbiota of gilthead sea bream.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF MODIFIED RELEASE TRI-LAYERED TABLET USING A FIXED DOSE COMBINATION OF METFORMIN HCL AND VILDAGLIPTIN
Authors: Jain Abhishek K , Patel Geeta K
Published: December 2020

The aim of present investigation is to formulate the tri-layered tablet of an Anti-Hyperglycaemic drug comprising Metformin HCl as sustained release layer and Vildagliptin as an immediate release layer in a fixed dose combination along with a fast dissolving intermediate layer or barrier layer in between the two layers just like a sandwich. Vildagliptin is well-known for its instability in presence of Metformin HCl. Hence, Vildagliptin degrades in formulation of single unit dosage form. The in vitro release layer of Metformin HCl was prepared using combination of sustained release polymer HPMC K100M & HPMC K4M and binder used in formulation is Povidone K90 which was prolonged up to 10 - 12 hours. The In-vitro release of Vildagliptin is rapid from tablet and showed highest drug release of more than 90% in 30 Minutes. Final formulation was tested for accelerated stability study. Intermediate barrier layer was optimised using Lactose Monohydrate and Microcrystalline cellulose as a diluents and Croscarmellose sodium as a disintegrant. The disintegration time of tablet into two halves for final formulation was 51 seconds. Combination of lactose monohydrate and microcrystalline cellulose as well as thickness of the intermediate layer was found important to achieve quick disintegration.
Noise Attenuation Using Vegetal Supported Barriers and Buffers Zones in Obio/Akpor, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Ogoro Mark , Ezinne Idika Sandra , Chukwudi Dollah Osademe
Published: December 2020

Noise pollution is an unwanted sound which degrades the quality of our environment  therefore, making the environment we live and work unpleasant for living. This situation is not different in Port Harcourt metropolis in the wake of increased human activities, which has   resulted to and accelerates noise level. This situation has led to the adoption of possible  measures to check noise levels using vegetal cover supported barriers. Hence, the need to examine environmental noise exposure attenuation using vegetal cover and its supported     barriers. Environmental research design was employed and a total of twelve samples were collected for each barrier types with the aid of the digital noise meter (EXTECH instrument    digital sound meter with RS232) to measure noise level in decibels (dBA). Findings revealed  that areas with bare surfaces across its property corridor witnessed did not decrease noise   levels at destination while surface with vegetation such as lawns within its property  boundary corridor witnessed reduced noise levels of destination. It is therefore, recommended    that vegetal surfaces walls should be encouraged to support erected noise barrier walls across    the urban space in the bid of attenuating urban noise and make urban regions/areas more habitable.
Isolation and Characterization of a Novel p,p’-DDT-Degrading Bacterium: Aeromonas sp. Strain MY1 from Agricultural Soil
Authors: Murtala Y. , Nwanguma B. C. , Ezeanyika L. U. S.
Published: December 2020

Background: Despite the banned on the use of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and other Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) by the Stockholm Convention for their toxicity, emerging shreds of evidence have indicated that DDT is, however, still in use in developing countries. This might increase the global burden of DDT contamination and its hazardous effects.

Aim: This study focused on the isolation and characterization of p,p’-DDT-degrading bacterium from a tropical agricultural soil.

Methodology: Standard isolation procedure was used for the screening and isolation of the strain. The 16S rRNA and phylogenetic analyses were used to identify the isolate and established protocols were followed to characterize the strain.

Results: A new strain belonging to the genus Aeromonas was isolated from agricultural soil using minimal salt-p,p’-DDT enrichment medium. The 16S rRNA sequencing was used to identify the strain and the partial sequence was deposited in the NCBI GenBank as Aeromonas sp. Strain MY1. This mesophilic isolate was capable of utilizing up to 50 mgL-1 of p,p’-DDT as the sole carbon source at an optimum pH of 7.5 and optimum temperature of 35 °C within 120 h under aerobic conditions. Fe2+ (0.2 mgL-1) demonstrated a stimulatory effect on the p,p’-DDT degradation capacity by the strain MY1. However, Zn, Cu, Pb, Hg, Ag and Cr ions have demonstrated various patterns of inhibitory effect on the p,p’-DDT degradation capacity of the isolate at 0.2 mgL-1. The strain MY1 could be a promising candidate for the bioremediation of p,p’-DDT contaminant.

Conclusion: Aeromonas sp. strain MY1 was capable of utilizing p,p’-DDT as a sole carbon source under aerobic conditions. The utilization capacity of the strain was influenced by some heavy metals. Fe was found to enhance the p,p’-DDT utilization capacity of the isolate at a lower concentration. While Zn, Cu, Pb, Hg, Ag and Cr showed various patterns of inhibitory effect.
Inflation and Commercial Banks Operation in Tanzania
Authors: Abdallah Zuhura Mohamed , Saadat Safia Yahya
Published: December 2020

This paper addresses connection of inflation and commercial banks operation by using quarterly time series data from 2008 to 2017. The study precisely shows relationship of inflation and customer savings in the commercial banks; and bank lending to customers using Vector Error Correction Model. The study reveals that there is existence of long run relationship among customer saving and inflation; and bank lending and inflation. The study reveals positive impact of customer saving and bank lending on inflation. The government of Tanzania should increase expenditure to necessary activities so as to expand banks operations because it is a crucial sector in the financial sector. However, the government should have continuous monitoring and control of the inflation to prevent financial sector shakiness. Additionally, Commercial banks should put much control on lending by increasing interest rates and choosing borrower with good character.
Pharmacovigilance in Cameroon: Past, Present and Future Developments in Unlocking the Drug Development Process
Authors: Fokunang Estella Achick Tembe , Njeba Bruna , Essi Marie Jose , Abondo Rose Ngono , Nyuki Banin Andrew , Fokunang Lovet Benyella , Kaba Nubia , Ondoua Marie-Thérèse Abena , Duerr Ralf , Fokunang Charles Ntungwen
Published: December 2020

The drug discovery and development processes are designed to guarantee that drugs are efficacious, nontoxic and of high standards of quality for human consumption. However, patient’s population with access to drugs at approval is only a fraction of the final target population. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the safety of medicines is generally only achieved after the marketing authorization of the drug, followed by pharmacovigilance or post marketing surveillance. Pharmacovigilance (PHV) is defined by WHO as “the science and activities that deals with the detection, assessment, understanding and prevention of the adverse drug reactions or any other possible drug-related interactions”. Health professionals, patients, drug manufacturers and drug regulatory authorities are therefore highly involved in the practice of PHV.

Cameroon imports 95 % of drugs and health care products. Therefore, an effective mastery of the knowledge, attitude and practice of PHV will help to elaborate the development of our pharmacovigilance systems. This paper gives an overview of pharmacovigilance in Cameroon for unlocking the drug development process focusing on the past, present and future.
Familiarity and Risk Factors Associated with Life Style Modification along with Low Blood Pressure– A Study of Medical University Larkana
Authors: Qazi Maryam , Shaikh Bilawal , Shaikh Abdul Aziz , Irfan Rao , Ahmed Tahseen , Siyal Fahad Jibran , Farooqui Muhammad Umair , Ahmer Arslan , Arbani Rashid Ali , Lakho Saeed Ahmed
Published: December 2020

The blood pressure is the driven force by which blood moves in a direction against the walls of arteries as it derived by the heart. Normal blood pressure has specific range while an individual with blood pressure towards lower range is very common ailment that is called in medical science as hypotension. In association with these majorities of the people including health science students consider hypotension as an illness which once diagnosed needs to be managed. The objective of this research study is an analysis on the familiarity of the risk factors and life style changes associated with low blood pressure among the health science students of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical University (S.M.B.B.M.U), Larkana, Sindh, Pakistan. This descriptive cross-sectional study was proceed by enlisting health science students Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S) and Bachelor of Dental Surgery (B.D.S) of S.M.B.B.M.U Larkana, Sindh, Pakistan during September 2019 to February 2020. A total of 412 students belongs to the first Prof. to last Prof. M.B.B.S & B.D.S were categorized after the revealed of the superior command and distinctive interrogator for the complications of low blood pressure were noted. The data was analyzed on SPSS Version 24.00 statistical software after defining information in the software. 227/412 (95 M.B.B.S and 132 B.D.S students) considered low blood pressure as a sickness. The students of this institute also agreed that low blood pressure with healthy human’s presents with many complications that required proper management. The data reveals from this research study that majority of the health science students ruminated the low blood pressure as unusual physiological response of the body hence it required serious attention.
Increased Rates of Obstetric Complications Prior to Systemic Sclerosis Diagnosis
Authors: Chung Melody P. , Kolstad Kathleen D. , Dontsi Makdine , Postlethwaite Debbie , Manwani Poonam , Zhao Hongyu , Kesh Sumana , Simard Julia F. , Chung Lorinda
Published: December 2020

Objective

To investigate whether obstetric complications prior to systemic sclerosis (SSc) diagnosis are more common in SSc patients compared to the general obstetric population.

Methods

A case–control study was performed at Kaiser Permanente Northern California to compare prior obstetric complications in adult women who later developed SSc (cases) with women from the general obstetric population who did not develop SSc (controls; matched 10:1 by age and year of delivery) from 2007 to 2016. Exposures included past hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (preeclampsia, eclampsia, gestational hypertension), premature rupture of membranes (PROM), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), maternal infections, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and preterm birth. Fischer's exact tests were used to compare categorical variables. Conditional logistic regression models estimated the odds ratio (OR), and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the outcome SSc.

Results

Seventeen SSc cases and 170 non‐SSc controls were identified, with median maternal age at delivery 34 years (range 23–46 years) and median time from delivery to SSc diagnosis 2 years (range 0.2–7.3 years). Women with SSc were more likely to be Hispanic and Black. Prior obstetric complications appeared higher in women with an eventual SSc diagnosis compared to controls (70.6% versus 50%), including hypertensive disorders (17.7% versus 9.4%), PROM (11.8% versus 4.1%), IUGR (5.9% versus 1.8%), maternal infection (29.4% versus 14.1%), NICU admissions (23.5% versus 7.7%), and preterm delivery (29.4% versus 21.8%). Women with SSc had a higher odds of delivering infants requiring NICU admission (OR 4.7 [95% CI 1.2–18.8]).

Conclusion

Women who eventually develop SSc had trends toward more complicated pregnancy histories before overt diagnosis.
Reprintable Polymers for Digital Light Processing 3D Printing
Authors: Zhu Guangda , Hou Yi , Xu Jian , Zhao Ning
Published: December 2020

3D printing is becoming a disruptive technology and shows great potential for various practical applications. Specially, digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing demonstrates advantages in high resolution and high efficiency. However, extensive production of infusible and insoluble thermosets in DLP printing causes serious resource waste and environmental problems after its disposal. Herein, a reprintable linear polymer is reported for repeatable DLP printing. Taking advantage of the dissolution of linear polymer in its monomer, printed objects can be recycled into liquid resin and reprinted via the same DLP. Polymerization kinetics and printing resolution of recycled resins and mechanical properties of reprinted polymers retain identical as the original. The thermoplastic nature of linear polymer endows 3D objects with welding and reshaping property. Recyclable composites are also successfully fabricated, and sustainable usage of high‐value fillers comes true. This strategy helps to address environmental issues arising from unprocessable thermosets and may contribute to an efficient materials recycling.
Use of Elastic, Porous, and Ultrathin Co‐Culture Membranes to Control the Endothelial Barrier Function via Cell Alignment
Authors: Yoo Jin , Kim Tae Hee , Park Sangun , Char Kookheon , Kim Soo Hyun , Chung Justin J. , Jung Youngmee
Published: December 2020

Porous membranes used in co‐culture enable the in vitro partitioning of cellular microenvironments, while still permitting physical and biochemical crosstalk between cells. Thus, features of the co‐culture membrane are crucial for recapitulating the physiological functions of co‐cultured cells. This study presents elastic, porous, and ultrathin membranes (EPUMs), which enhance cell–cell interactions and control cell alignment with surface topology created by stretching the membranes. The EPUM is fabricated using poly(lactide‐co‐caprolactone) as the base material, and the porous feature is endowed by a vapor‐induced phase separation process induced by the presence of hygroscopic salt. Owing to its elastic property, the membrane can be stretched, and the deformed porous structures on the membrane surfaces act as nanostructured topographical cues, resulting in cell alignment. By co‐culturing human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) on the opposite sides of the membrane, rapid endothelialization occurs through the membranes, as compared to the commercial membranes. Furthermore, the stretched membranes induce the alignment of hMSCs and HUVECs and ultimately exhibit enhanced endothelial barrier function. The co‐culture membrane developed in this study may provide an effective tool for recapitulating endothelial basement membranes with a controllable endothelial barrier function.
Highly‐Sensitive Skin‐Attachable Eye‐Movement Sensor Using Flexible Nonhazardous Piezoelectric Thin Film
Authors: Kim Nam‐In , Chen Jie , Wang Weijie , Moradnia Mina , Pouladi Sara , Kwon Min‐Ki , Kim Ja‐Yeon , Li Xiaohang , Ryou Jae‐Hyun
Published: December 2020

Accurate and continuous monitoring of eye movements using compact, low‐power‐consuming, and easily‐wearable sensors is necessary in personal and public health and safety, selected medical diagnosis techniques (point‐of‐care diagnostics), and personal entertainment systems. In this study, a highly sensitive, noninvasive, and skin‐attachable sensor made of a stable flexible piezoelectric thin film that is also free of hazardous elements to overcome the limitations of current computer‐vision‐based eye‐tracking systems and piezoelectric strain sensors is developed. The sensor fabricated from single‐crystalline III‐N thin film by a layer‐transfer technique is highly sensitive and can detect subtle movements of the eye. The flexible eye movement sensor converts the mechanical deformation (skin deflection by eye blinking and eyeball motion) with various frequencies and levels into electrical outputs. The sensor can detect abnormal eye flickering and conditions caused by fatigue and drowsiness, including overlong closure, hasty eye blinking, and half‐closed eyes. The abnormal eyeball motions, which may be the sign of several brain‐related diseases, can also be measured, as the sensor generates discernable output voltages from the direction of eyeball movements. This study provides a practical solution for continuous sensing of human eye blinking and eyeball motion as a critical part of personal healthcare, safety, and entertainment systems.
Molecularly Engineered Hierarchical Nanodisc from Antiparallel J‐stacked BODIPY Conjugates: Application to Theranostics with Mutually Beneficial Properties
Authors: Yan Xiaosa , Su Meihui , Liu Yanan , Zhang Yongkang , Zhang Hao , Li Changhua
Published: December 2020

The J‐aggregation of dye‐functional group conjugates, which results in intriguing photophysical properties and highly ordered structures, has several advantages over that of monomeric dyes and exhibits augmented performance compared to that of monomeric functional groups, thereby providing a novel platform for devising materials with advanced functions. Herein, it is reported that a molecularly engineered nanodisc by the antiparallel J‐aggregation of halogenated BODIPY‐Gd(III), a dye‐functional group conjugate. The highly directional halogen‐bonding interactions enable a unique antiparallel J‐stacking of BODIPY‐Gd(III), resulting in an alternating, orderly arrangement of the functional Gd(III) groups on the surfaces of the nanodisc, and allowing water stability and an enhanced magnetic resonance signal. Moreover, the J‐stacked dyes render the nanodisc with excellent photothermal performance, such as intense NIR‐absorptivity, high photothermal conversion efficiency, and a nearly non‐photobleaching capability. Preliminary in vivo studies demonstrated the potential of the nanodisc as an efficient bimodal photoacoustic and high‐performing magnetic resonance imaging, and antitumor photothermal therapy agent. This conceptual work not only establishes a general strategy for nano‐J‐aggregates with desired dye arrangement, controlled size, and in vivo stability, but also advances the antiparallel J‐aggregation of dye‐functional group conjugates as a potential platform for multifunctional integration and modulation, wherein multiple functional groups and BODIPYs can be installed.
Is splenic hilar lymph node dissection necessary for proximal gastric cancer surgery?
Authors: Kinoshita Takahiro , Okayama Takafumi
Published: December 2020

Advanced proximal gastric cancer sometimes metastasizes to the splenic hilar lymph nodes (No. 10 LN). Total gastrectomy combined with splenectomy is performed for complete removal of the No. 10 LN and was historically a standard procedure in Japan. However, splenectomy is associated with several disadvantages for patients, such as increased postoperative morbidity, risk of thrombogenic disease, fatal infection from encapsulated bacteria, and the development of other types of cancer in the long term because of loss of immune function. Therefore, splenectomy should only be performed when its estimated oncological effect exceeds such disadvantages. A Japanese randomized controlled trial (JCOG0110) clearly demonstrated that prophylactic splenectomy is not necessary unless the tumor has invaded the greater curvature; thus, splenectomy is no longer routinely performed in Japan. However, several retrospective studies have shown a comparatively high incidence of No. 10 LN metastasis and therapeutic value from LN dissection at that station in the tumors invading the greater curvature. Similar tendencies have also been reported in type 4 or remnant gastric cancer involving the greater curvature. In view of these facts, No. 10 LN dissection is presently recommended for such patients; however, robust evidence is lacking. In recent years, laparoscopic/robotic spleen‐preserving splenic hilar dissection utilizing augmented visualization without pancreatic mobilization has been developed. This procedure is expected to replace prophylactic splenectomy and provide an equal oncological effect with lower morbidity. In Japan, a prospective phase‐II study (JCOG1809) is currently ongoing to investigate the safety and feasibility of this procedure.
Comparative morphometric analyses of the deciduous molars of Homo naledi from the Dinaledi Chamber, South Africa
Authors: Brophy Juliet K. , Moggi‐Cecchi Jacopo , Matthews Gregory J. , Bailey Shara E.
Published: December 2020

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to help elucidate the taxonomic relationship between Homo naledi and other hominins.

Materials and Methods

Homo naledi deciduous maxillary and mandibular molars from the Dinaledi Chamber, South Africa were compared to those of Australopithecus africanus, Australopithecus afarensis, Paranthropus robustus, Paranthropus boisei, early Homo sp., Homo erectus, early Homo sapiens, Upper Paleolithic H. sapiens, recent southern African H. sapiens, and Neanderthals by means of morphometric analyses of crown outlines and relative cusp areas. The crown shapes were analyzed using elliptical Fourier analyses followed by principal component analyses (PCA). The absolute and relative cusp areas were obtained in ImageJ and compared using PCA and cluster analyses.

Results

PCA suggests that the crown shapes and relative cusp areas of mandibular molars are more diagnostic than the maxillary molars. The H. naledi deciduous mandibular first and second molar (dm1 and dm2) do not have a strong affinity to any taxon in the comparative sample in all analyses. While the H. naledi dm2 plots as an outlier in the relative cusp analysis, the H. naledi specimen fall closest to Australopithecus due to their relatively large metaconid, a primitive trait for the genus Homo. Although useful for differentiating Neanderthals from recent southern African H. sapiens and UP H. sapiens, the PCA of the relative cusp areas suggests that the deciduous maxillary second molars (dm2) do not differentiate other groups. The three H. naledi dm2 cuspal areas are variable and fall within the ranges of other Homo, as well as Australopithecus, and Paranthropus suggesting weak diagnostic utility.

Discussion

This research provides another perspective on the morphology of, and variation within, H. naledi. The H. naledi deciduous molars do not consistently align with any genus or species in the comparative sample in either the crown shape or relative cusp analyses. This line of inquiry is consistent with other cranial and postcranial studies suggesting that H. naledi is unique.
Nanopartikel auf subnanometer dünnen oxidischen Filmen: Skalierung von Modellsystemen
Authors: Ament Kevin , Köwitsch Nicolas , Hou Dianwei , Götsch Thomas , Kröhnert Jutta , Heard Christopher J. , Trunschke Annette , Lunkenbein Thomas , Armbrüster Marc , Breu Josef
Published: December 2020

Durch die Abscheidung von ultradünnen Oxidschichten auf atomar‐flachen Metalloberflächen konnte die elektronische Struktur des Metalls und hierdurch dessen katalytische Aktivität beeinflusst werden. Die Skalierung dieser Architekturen für eine technische Nutzbarkeit war bisher aber kaum möglich. Durch die Verwendung einer flüssigkristallinen Phase aus Fluorhectorit‐Nanoschichten, können wir solche Architekturen in skalierbarem Maßstab imitieren. Synthetischer Natriumfluorhectorit (NaHec) quillt spontan und repulsiv in Wasser zu einer nematischen flüssigkristallinen Phase aus individuellen Nanoschichten. Diese tragen eine permanente negative Schichtladung, sodass selbst bei einer Separation von über 60 nm eine parallele Anordnung der Schichten behalten wird. Zwischen diesen Nanoschichten können Palladium‐Nanopartikel mit entgegengesetzter Ladung eingelagert werden, wodurch die nematische Phase kollabiert und separierte Nanopartikel zwischen den Schichten fixiert werden. Die Aktivität zur CO‐Oxidation des so entstandenen Katalysators war höher als z. B. die der gleichen Nanopartikel auf konventionellem Al2O3 oder der externen Oberfläche von NaHec. Durch Röntgenphotoelektronenspektroskopie konnte eine Verschiebung der Pd‐3d‐Elektronen zu höheren Bindungsenergien beobachtet werden, womit die erhöhte Aktivität erklärt werden kann. Berechnungen zeigten, dass mit erhöhter positiver Ladung des Pd die Adsorptionsstärke von CO erniedrigt und damit auch die Vergiftung durch CO vermindert wird.
Collective Total Synthesis of Casbane Diterpenes: One Strategy, Multiple Targets
Authors: Löffler Lorenz E. , Wirtz Conny , Fürstner Alois
Published: December 2020

Of the more than 100 casbane diterpenes known to date, only the eponymous parent hydrocarbon casbene itself has ever been targeted by chemical synthesis. Outlined herein is a conceptually new approach that brings not a single but a variety of casbane derivatives into reach, especially the more highly oxygenated and arguably more relevant members of this family. The key design elements are a catalyst‐controlled intramolecular cyclopropanation with or without subsequent equilibration, chain extension of the resulting stereoisomeric cyclopropane building blocks by chemoselective hydroboration/cross‐coupling, and the efficient closure of the strained macrobicyclic framework by ring‐closing alkyne metathesis. A hydroxy‐directed catalytic trans‐hydrostannation allows for late‐stage diversity. These virtues are manifested in the concise total syntheses of depressin, yuexiandajisu A, and ent‐pekinenin C. The last compound turned out to be identical to euphorhylonal A, the structure of which had clearly been misassigned.
Effective treatment for environmental enhancing the performance of undesirable agro‐waste in production of carbon nanostructures as adsorbent
Authors: Basta Altaf H. , Lotfy Vivian F. , Fathy Nady A.
Published: December 2020

The work in this article deals with enhancing the performance of rice straw (RS) for production of carbon nanostructures (CNSs), as aqueous phase adsorbents, as well as benefit solution for disposing of this undesirable waste and for avoiding the environmental risk from burning. In this respect, controlling the constituents of RS by enzymatic treatment, followed by hydrothermal treatment and carbonization was carried out. The benefit role of the performed treatments was supported via comparing these CNSs with those obtained from RS pretreated by chemical pulping processes; moreover, literature reported CNSs. Results deduced from SEM and TEM analyses showing that, the two investigated CNSs samples have different surface morphologies and comprised of graphitic carbons as nodules and multi‐layer graphene sheets. The investigated RS‐based CNSs own numerous of oxygen‐containing functional groups with low specific surface area and high mesopore volume; thus, they exhibited high iodine number of 959 and 863 mg/g, respectively. The CNSs from hydrochar of peroxidase treated RS has higher uptake to methylene blue (MB) dye (358 mg/g) than that produced from hydrochar of cellulase treated RS (202 mg/g), this may be related to its unique nanostructure. Both values are higher than that of reported CNSs, which obtained from chemical pulping processes (~ 54–119 mg/g). The adsorption of MB dye is well‐fitted with Langmuir and described by pseudo‐second order kinetic model.
Implementation of family‐based treatment for Asian adolescents with anorexia nervosa: A consecutive cohort examination of outcomes
Authors: Chew Chu Shan Elaine , Kelly Siobhan , Tay E. Eric , Baeg Amerie , Khaider Khairunisa Binte , Oh Jean Yin , Rajasegaran Kumudhini , Saffari Seyed Ehsan , Davis Courtney
Published: December 2020

Objective

This study describes the implementation of family‐based treatment (FBT) in an eating disorder program in Asia as well as clinical outcomes of Asian adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) treated with FBT.

Method

This retrospective consecutive cohort study of 147 Asian adolescents with AN was compared between those in FBT (n = 65) versus treatment as usual (TAU) (n = 82). Variables associated with weight restoration were analyzed between groups.

Results

Participants' mean age was 14.2 (SD = 1.5) years and 93% were female. Mean presenting %mBMI was 74.0 (SD = 7.8) and average illness duration was 7.7 (SD = 6.1) months. The two groups' baseline characteristics were not significantly different. Weight restoration rates in the FBT group were significantly higher than the TAU group at 6‐, 12‐, and 24‐month time points. A linear mixed model showed the mean %mBMI was significantly higher at 0, 6, 12, and 24 months in the FBT group. The median time to weight restoration for patients on FBT was shorter (FBT: 7.0 months, TAU: 19.0 months; 95% CI [14.5, 23.5] χ2 = 15.84, p < .001). Within the FBT group, those that completed ≥9 FBT sessions had significantly higher rates of weight restoration at 12 months. Across all participants, those with a lower starting %mBMI were less likely to achieve weight restoration by 12 months.

Conclusion

FBT can be effectively implemented in a multidisciplinary eating disorder program managing Asian adolescents with AN with improved rates of weight restoration. Further research is needed to understand the predictors and moderators of remission using FBT in Asian adolescents with AN.
Morphological traits determine detectability bias in North American grassland butterflies
Authors: Kral‐O'Brien Katherine C. , Karasch Brooke M. , Hovick Torre J. , Moranz Raymond A. , Harmon Jason P.
Published: December 2020

Ecological research often includes observing and counting individuals to obtain a population estimate or index that can inform conservation, management, and policy. However, the ability to accurately estimate wildlife populations has always been hindered by bias, and researchers aim to overcome bias by using correction factors that calculate the relationship between observer counts and true counts. Accurate estimates of butterfly populations, for example, are especially necessary to inform management and policy, with over 40 species listed or proposed for listing under the United States Endangered Species Act. Researchers can utilize methods like line‐transect distance sampling (LTDS) to help account for detection bias and calculate more accurate estimates, but species‐specific traits or behaviors may influence survey effectiveness. We used LTDS to detect nearly 35,000 individuals of 33 species across five studies to calculate butterfly species' effective strip widths (ESW)—a type of correction factor—across grasslands in the Great Plains, USA. To better understand how species' traits influence detectability, we modeled the influence of species' morphological, life history, and behavioral traits on ESW. The average ESW was 5.42 m, but varied from 1.84 to 12.6 m. We found that morphology (size and color) impacted the ability of observers to detect butterflies, with larger and brightly colored butterflies detected farther away from observers compared to smaller and dull‐colored butterflies. Additionally, observers were generally better at detecting individuals while they were flying and nectaring compared to resting. Surprisingly, species' life history and ecological traits did not help explain detectability differences. As conservation efforts continue to increase for butterflies, improved estimates of their population size will be necessary to evaluate management strategies and aid conservation decision‐making for future policy. Future surveys need to consider butterfly size and color, adjusting weather protocols when necessary, to minimize and account for bias associated with butterfly species, especially if accurate population estimates are a study goal.
Osteomalacia and Vitamin D Status: A Clinical Update 2020
Authors: Minisola Salvatore , Colangelo Luciano , Pepe Jessica , Diacinti Daniele , Cipriani Cristiana , Rao Sudhaker D
Published: December 2020

Historically, rickets and osteomalacia have been synonymous with vitamin D deficiency dating back to the 17th century. The term osteomalacia, which literally means soft bone, was traditionally applied to characteristic radiologically or histologically documented skeletal disease and not just to clinical or biochemical abnormalities. Osteomalacia results from impaired mineralization of bone that can manifest in several types, which differ from one another by the relationships of osteoid (ie, unmineralized bone matrix) thickness both with osteoid surface and mineral apposition rate. Osteomalacia related to vitamin D deficiency evolves in three stages. The initial stage is characterized by normal serum levels of calcium and phosphate and elevated alkaline phosphatase, PTH, and 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]—the latter a consequence of increased PTH. In the second stage, serum calcium and often phosphate levels usually decline, and both serum PTH and alkaline phosphatase values increase further. However, serum 1,25(OH)2D returns to normal or low values depending on the concentration of its substrate, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD; the best available index of vitamin D nutrition) and the degree of PTH elevation. In the final stage, hypocalcemia and hypophosphatemia are invariably low with further exacerbation of secondary hyperparathyroidism. The exact,or even an approximate, prevalence of osteomalacia caused by vitamin D deficiency is difficult to estimate, most likely it is underrecognized or misdiagnosed as osteoporosis. Signs and symptoms include diffuse bone, muscle weakness, and characteristic fracture pattern, often referred to as pseudofractures, involving ribs, scapulae, pubic rami, proximal femurs, and codfish‐type vertebrae. The goal of therapy of vitamin D‐deficiency osteomalacia is to alleviate symptoms, promote fracture healing, restore bone strength, and improve quality of life while correcting biochemical abnormalities. There is a need for better understanding of the epidemiology of osteomalacia. Simplified tools validated by concurrent bone histology should be developed to help clinicians promptly diagnose osteomalacia. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Applications and advancements of FT‐ICR‐MS for interactome studies
Authors: Chavez Juan D. , Park Sung‐Gun , Mohr Jared P. , Bruce James E.
Published: December 2020

The set of all intra‐ and intermolecular interactions, collectively known as the interactome, is currently an unmet challenge for any analytical method, but if measured, could provide unparalleled insight on molecular function in living systems. Developments and applications of chemical cross‐linking and high‐performance mass spectrometry technologies are beginning to reveal details on how proteins interact in cells and how protein conformations and interactions inside cells change with phenotype or during drug treatment or other perturbations. A major contributor to these advances is Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT‐ICR‐MS) technology and its implementation with accurate mass measurements on cross‐linked peptide‐pair precursor and fragment ions to enable improved identification methods. However, these applications place increased demands on mass spectrometer performance in terms of high‐resolution spectral acquisition rates for on‐line MSn experiments. Moreover, FT‐ICR‐MS also offers unique opportunities to develop and implement parallel ICR cells for multiplexed signal acquisition and the potential to greatly advance accurate mass acquisition rates for interactome studies. This review highlights our efforts to exploit accurate mass FT‐ICR‐MS technologies with chemical cross‐linking and developments being pursued to realize parallel MS array capabilities that will further advance visualization of the interactome.
Entire calcaneus reconstruction with pedicled composite fibular growth plate flap in a pediatric patient
Authors: Ozols Dzintars , Blums Kristaps , Krumins Maris , Butnere Marisa Maija , Nefjodovs Vadims
Published: December 2020

Traumatic calcanectomy is a complicated rare condition that results in chronic pain and loss of limb function as the calcaneus is crucial for bearing weight. For an adult, possible treatment options are limited to below knee amputation, bone grafts, and 3D prosthesis; however, for the pediatric population, therapeutic data are scarce. In this case report, the authors describe a technique that provides the possibility for hindfoot reconstruction while maintaining growth potential without traumatizing other anatomic regions. A 5‐year‐old patient presented in the emergency department after he accidentally slipped under a lawnmower, which resulted in full calcaneal amputation with large bone and plantar soft tissue defects from the medial to lateral malleoli. Four days later, reconstructive surgery was performed using a composite vascularized pedicle growth plate flap. The flap was based on the retrograde anterior tibial artery and consisted of the peroneus longus muscle and fasciocutaneous perforator flap to maintain soft tissue coverage. The calcaneus was reconstructed by a double barrel fibular transplant localizing the growth plate in the distal part of the neocalcaneus. Full consolidation of the fibular barrels was achieved and the growth plate was still open at the 8‐year follow‐up. The fibular transplant has acquired a similar shape to a calcaneus with symmetric flattening and opposite side angulation. The patient's lower extremity functional score was 78/80 points. Reconstruction of an amputated calcaneal bone is rare and complicated, especially for pediatric patients. Authors demonstrate treatment with a complex vascularized flap for sustained growth and good functional outcome in the long term.
A novel approach for modeling order picking paths
Authors: Ozden Sabahattin G. , Smith Alice E. , Gue Kevin R.
Published: December 2020

We introduce the visibility graph as an alternative way to estimate the length of a route traveled by order pickers in a warehouse. Heretofore it has been assumed that workers travel along a network of travel paths corresponding to centers of aisles, including along the right angles formed where picking aisles join cross aisles. A visibility graph forms travel paths that correspond to more direct and, we believe, more appropriate “travel by sight.” We compare distance estimations of the visibility graph and the aisle‐centers method analytically for a common traditional warehouse design. We conduct a range of computational experiments for both traditional and fishbone warehouse layouts to assess the impact of this change in distance metric. Distance estimations using aisle‐centers calculates a length of a picking tour on average 10–20% longer compared to distance estimations based on the visibility graph. The visibility graph metric also has implications for warehouse design: when comparing three traditional layouts, the distance model using a visibility graph resulted in choosing a different best layout in 13.3% of the cases.
Results on approximate controllability of Sobolev type fractional stochastic evolution hemivariational inequalities
Authors: Vijayakumar V. , Udhayakumar R. , Panda Sumati Kumari , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy
Published: December 2020

In our article, we primarily concentrate on the approximate controllability results for Sobolev type fractional stochastic evolution hemivariational inequalities. By applying the facts related to fractional calculus, and fixed‐point technique, the principal results are proved. Initially, we are concentrating the existence and continue to prove the controllability of the fractional evolution system. In the end, we present an example to demonstrate the theory.
On Hosoya Index and Merrifield‐Simmons Index of trees with given domination number
Authors: Şahin Bünyamin
Published: December 2020

The Hosoya index and the Merrifield‐Simmons index are two important molecular descriptors in chemical graph theory. The Hosoya index is defined as the total number of matchings of the graph and the Merrifield‐Simmons index is defined as the total number of independent sets of the graph. In this paper, the author obtains the extremal values of the Hosoya index and the Merrifield‐Simmons index of trees with given domination number.
A European, Observational, Prospective Trial of Trabectedin Plus Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin in Patients with Platinum-Sensitive Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Pignata Sandro , Scambia Giovanni , Villanucci Alessandro , Naglieri Emanuele , Ibarbia Mikel Arruti , Brusa Federica , Bourgeois Hugues , Sorio Roberto , Casado Antonio , Reichert Dietmar , Dopchie Catherine , De Rivas Beatriz , Sande Luis Miguel
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The noninterventional, prospective NIMES-ROC phase IV study (NCT02825420) evaluated trabectedin plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) in real-life clinical practice.

Patients and Methods

Eligible participants included adults with platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer (PS-ROC) who had received one or more cycles of trabectedin/PLD before inclusion according to the marketing authorization. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) according to investigator criteria.

Results

Two hundred eighteen patients from five European countries were evaluated, 72.5% of whom were pretreated with at least two prior chemotherapy lines and received a median of six cycles of trabectedin/PLD (range: 1–24). Median PFS was 9.46 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.9–10.9), and median overall survival (OS) was 23.56 months (95% CI, 18.1–34.1). Patients not pretreated with an antiangiogenic drug obtained larger median PFS (p < .007) and OS (p < .048), largely owning to differences between the two populations. Twenty-four patients (11.0%) had a complete response, and 57 patients (26.1%) achieved a partial response for an objective response rate (ORR) of 37.2%. Fifty-nine patients (27.1%) had disease stabilization for a disease control rate of 64.2%. No statistically significant difference in PFS, OS, or ORR was observed by BRCA1/2 status and platinum sensitivity. Most common grade 3/4 adverse events (AEs) were neutropenia (30.3%), anemia (6.4%), thrombocytopenia (5.5%), and asthenia (5.0%). No deaths attributed to treatment-related AEs or unexpected AEs occurred.

Conclusion

The combination of trabectedin/PLD represents a clinically meaningful and safe option for patients with PS-ROC regardless of prior treatment with an antiangiogenic drug, being comparable with previously observed outcomes in selected and less pretreated patients from clinical trials.

Implications for Practice

This noninterventional, prospective study, conducted in 57 reference sites across Europe, consistently confirmed that trabectedin plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) in routine clinical practice represents a clinically meaningful and safe option for women with platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer. Although the study population represented a heterogeneous, older, and more pretreated population than those in prospective clinical trials, the combination of trabectedin plus PLD induced comparable clinical benefits, with a similar and manageable safety profile. Overall, these findings show that trabectedin in combination with PLD maintains antitumor activity when administered to heavily pretreated patients in real-life clinical practice.