bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) in the Rice-Wheat Systems of South Asia Is Influenced by Terminal Heat Stress at Late Sown Condition: A Case in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Akbar , Tanjina Islam Mst. , Islam M. Tofazzal
Published: April 2020

Wheat plays an important role in attaining food and nutritional security in Bangladesh after rice. The demand of wheat has been increasing every year at the rate of 13% due to rapid changes in dietary habits, socio-economic upliftment, enhancement of per capita income, etc. Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute (BWMRI) has already released 34 high yielding, disease-resistant, and abiotic stress-tolerant wheat varieties, and improved management practices to the farmers. Although all the released varieties have climatic yield potential as high as 6.0 t ha−1 with the attainable average yield is 4.0–4.5 t ha−1, the national average yield in farmers’ field is only 3.49 t ha−1; it is specified that there is a huge yield gap existing among potential, attainable and actual yields. One of the most important reasons for this yield gap of wheat is the terminal high temperature stress (HS) in late sowing wheat. Generally, farmers in Bangladesh are sowing wheat lately due to delay in sowing monsoon rice and subsequent late harvest of the rice; as a result, late sown wheat faces terminal HS at reproductive stage. The chapter highlighted the consequences of terminal HS on wheat and potential approaches to mitigate the stress in Bangladesh.
Dynamics of an autumn phytoplankton bloom in a hypereutrophic urban lake in the semiarid Pampean region (Argentina)
Authors: Pilati Alberto , Echaniz Santiago Andrés , Vignatti Alicia María , Bazán Graciela Inés
Published: April 2020

Dinámica de un florecimiento algal otoñal en un lago hipereutrófico urbano de la región pampeana semiárida (Argentina).
En este trabajo, se reporta un raro florecimiento fitoplanctónico otoñal en un lago somero de la región semiárida pampeana (Argentina). La biomasa fitoplanctónica presentó un solo pico otoñal, seguido dos meses más tarde por un pico en la clorofila. El pico de biomasa coincidió con un débil pastoreo sobre la comunidad fitoplanctónica (dominada por la poco pastoreada Planktothrix agardhii (Gomont) Anagnostidis et Komárek) junto con una reducción de la limitación por N en el otoño. El pico de clorofila ocurrió cuando las algas aumentaron su contenido de clorofila probablemente debido a la reducción de la radiación solar y la baja transparencia del agua. Esto indicará que la estacionalidad del fitoplancton en esta área particular depende de múltiples factores bióticos y abióticos.

In this paper we report a rare autumm phytoplankton bloom in a shallow lake of the semiarid Pampean area of Argentina. Phytoplankton biomass peaked only once during the autumn, followed 2 months later by a chlorophyll peak. The biomass peak might have been the result of a weak grazing pressure on the phytoplankton community (dominated by the nongrazeable Planktothrix agardhii (Gomont) Anagnostidis et Komárek) coupled with a reduction in the N-limitation towards the autumm. The chlorophyll peak took place when phytoplankton cells increased their chlorophyll content probably due to a reduction of solar irradiance and low water transparency. This findings indicate that phytoplankton seasonality in this particular area may depend on multiple biotic and abiotic factors.
Populismo: ¿izquierdas y derechas?
Authors: Biglieri Paula Andrea
Published: April 2020

El artículo parte de la discusión actual sobre si la proliferación de los así denominados populismos de derecha invalida o no la tesis de Laclau de que el populismo es un tipo de articulación que puede dar un sentido emancipatorio a la iniciativa política. Dicho debate que se ha presentado fundamentalmente bajo la oposición binaria populismos de derechas frente a populismos de izquierda tiene a dos voces contrapuestas, las de Fassin y Mouffe, que el texto se propone revisar, desde una perspectiva laclausiana, a partir de dos preguntas que se desprenden de las posiciones políticas de los autores: ¿es posible, como desearía Fassin, eludir o eliminar el populismo? ¿Es posible distinguir entre un populismo de derechas y uno de izquierdas, como propone Mouffe?The article takes as a point of departure the current discussion about the proliferation of the so called right-wing populisms that put into question Laclau’s thesis that populism is a sort of articulation that may bring about emancipatory directions to politics. This debate, that has recently taken the format of an opposition between right-wing populism vs. leftwing populisms, has two main competing voices —Fassin and Mouffe— that the text reviews from a Laclausian perspective. The two questions addressed, that rise from the political position of each author, are the following: is it possible to eliminate populism as Fassin would prefer? Is it possible to establish a differentiation between right-wing and left-wing populism as Mouffe affirms?
«Memòries en Trànsit», nuevas tecnologías al servicio de la historia
Authors: Bourdin Pierre , Beltrán Bravo Laura
Published: April 2020

El profesor Pierre Bourdin y la alumna en prácticas Laura Beltrán de la UOC han desarrollado una de aplicación de realidad aumentada y una aplicación de realidad virtual para la nueva exposición del Museu de Cervera creada por Xavier Marrades, «Diàlegs amb la Casa Duran. Memòries en trànsit».
Contributo alla definizione delle variazioni delle condizioni idrogeologiche indotte dalla sequenza sismica 2016-2017 in alcune aree del Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini
Authors: Gafà Rossella Maria , La Vigna Francesco , Martarelli Lucio , Monti Gennaro Maria , Silvi Angelantonio
Published: April 2020

Il Servizio Geologico d’Italia di ISPRA (SGI), nell’ambito di una convenzione (inizio giugno 2018 e termine aprile 2020) con il Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini, sta conducendo alcuni studi finalizzati ad accertare le principali variazioni delle condizioni idrogeologiche di alcune sorgenti e corsi d’acqua verificatesi nel territorio del Parco a seguito degli effetti della sequenza simica 2016-2017 dell’Italia centrale. Il Parco ha garantito i permessi per raggiungere alcune aree sottoposte a vincoli e ha fornito i dati idrogeologici in suo possesso. Inoltre, è stata avviata una raccolta di dati presso gli Enti gestori della risorsa idrica ed altri Enti coinvolti nello studio degli effetti sismici sulle risorse idriche dei Monti Sibillini [...].
The efficiency of universal mitochondrial DNA barcodes for species discrimination of Pomacea canaliculata and Pomacea maculata
Authors: Kannan Adrian , Rama Rao Suganiya , Ratnayeke Shyamala , Yow Yoon-Yen
Published: April 2020

Invasive apple snails, Pomacea canaliculata and P. maculata, have a widespread distribution globally and are regarded as devastating pests of agricultural wetlands. The two species are morphologically similar, which hinders species identification via morphological approaches and species-specific management efforts. Advances in molecular genetics may contribute effective diagnostic tools to potentially resolve morphological ambiguity. DNA barcoding has revolutionized the field of taxonomy by providing an alternative, simple approach for species discrimination, where short sections of DNA, the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene in particular, are used as ‘barcodes’ to delineate species boundaries. In our study, we aimed to assess the effectiveness of two mitochondrial markers, the COI and 16S ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid (16S rDNA) markers for DNA barcoding of P. canaliculata and P. maculata. The COI and 16S rDNA sequences of 40 Pomacea specimens collected from six localities in Peninsular Malaysia were analyzed to assess their barcoding performance using phylogenetic methods and distance-based assessments. The results confirmed both markers were suitable for barcoding P. canaliculata and P. maculata. The phylogenies of the COI and 16S rDNA markers demonstrated species-specific monophyly and were largely congruent with the exception of one individual. The COI marker exhibited a larger barcoding gap (6.06–6.58%) than the 16S rDNA marker (1.54%); however, the magnitude of barcoding gap generated within the barcoding region of the 16S rDNA marker (12-fold) was bigger than the COI counterpart (approximately 9-fold). Both markers were generally successful in identifying P. canaliculata and P. maculata in the similarity-based DNA identifications. The COI + 16S rDNA concatenated dataset successfully recovered monophylies of P. canaliculata and P. maculata but concatenation did not improve individual datasets in distance-based analyses. Overall, although both markers were successful for the identification of apple snails, the COI molecular marker is a better barcoding marker and could be utilized in various population genetic studies of P. canaliculata and P. maculata.
Isolation, Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Ergosta-5, 7, 22-triene-3β, 14α – diol (22Z) from Kenyan Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Sande Ebrahim , Baraza Danstone Lilechi , Ooko Selline , Nyongesa Peter Kuloba
Published: April 2020

Aims: To determine the chemical composition and antibacterial activity of Kenyan Ganoderma lucidum.

Study Design: Structural determination of the isolated compound was done using spectral evidences and in comparison with literature. The antibacterial properties of the compound was done using disc diffusion method.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, between January and November, 2019.

Methodology: Sequential extraction of dried samples of Kenyan G. lucidum were done using solvents hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. Chromatographic separation of hexane extract of Ganoderma lucidum was done using spectroscopic data. The compound was assayed against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Methicillin–Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus pyogenes. Standard antibiotic namely; ampicillin was used as the control. Disc diffusion method was used and zones of inhibition, after respective incubation periods, were used to quantify antibacterial activity.

Results: From hexane extract of Ganoderma lucidum, Ergosta-5, 7, 22-triene-3β, 14α – diol (22Z) was isolated. Ethylacetate and methanol extracts produced a mixture of complex compounds. Ergosta-5,7,22-triene-3β,14α-diol (22Z) exhibited significant activity against Methicillin-Resistance Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (p=0.022) and Streptococcus pyogenes (p = 0.05). The most sensitive microbe was Streptococcus pyogenes.

Conclusion: One major compound, Ergosta-5, 7, 22-triene-3β, 14α – diol (22Z) was isolated, characterized and antibacterial activity determined.
Effect of Parental Socio-economic Status and Lifestyle Habits on Risk of Childhood Obesity in a Developing Nation: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ekpenyong Christopher Edet , Asuquo Abasifreke Godwin
Published: April 2020

Background:  The prevalence of childhood obesity (COB) in the developing world is currently high and is rising rapidly. Unlike developed countries, studies evaluating the association between parental socio-economic status (SES) and risk of COB in developing countries are limited. Besides, the association varies across country and race/ethnicity and changes overtime. The aim of this study was to assess the association between parental SES and life style habits (LSHs) and risk of COB in Uyo, Southern Nigeria.

Methods: Five hundred pupils and the corresponding number of parents were examined between April and September 2018 using socio-demographic/LSHs assessment questionnaire and body mass index (BMI) evaluation. Data analysis was performed and frequencies and percentages were computed.  Associations between SES and LSHs of parents and risk of COW/COB were evaluated using multiple logistic regression analysis. Odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were estimated.

Results: The prevalence of COW and COB was 3.4% and 16% respectively. The risk of COW/COB was higher among children whose parents had high level of education (OR=1.81, C.I=1.985-3.327,P=0.046), high level of income(OR=16.07, C.I=3.773-68.455,P=0.0001), employed(OR=1.138,C.I=0.157-12.057) and poor dietary habits. High level of physical activity of fathers and high income level of mothers decreased the risk of COW/COB.

Conclusion:  High SES and poor LSHs of parents are associated with increased risk of COW/COB. Interventions necessary to reduce high prevalence of COW/COB in our cities and other developing countries should include among other risk factors parental SES and LSHs.
Etiological Spectrum and Clinical Profile of Patients Admitted with Pancytopenia
Authors: Dhooria Harmeet Pal Singh , Kaur Sandeep , Dhooria Gurdeep Singh , Gupta Dinesh , Garg Bhawna
Published: April 2020

Aims: The etiological spectrum and clinical profile of admitted patients presenting with pancytopenia were studied.

Study Design: This was a prospective study conducted on 200 patients presenting to the Department of Medicine, Department of Oncology and the Allied Specialities of Medicine, Dayan and Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana and were found to have pancytopenia during hospital stay.

Results: Mean age of the patients was 45.69 ± 17.05 years with maximum number of patients (23%) in the age group of 51-60 years and 119 patients were males and 81 patients were females. Most common physical finding was pallor (95%), followed by splenomegaly (22%) and hepatomegaly (17%). Total of 107 patients were vegetarians (53.5%) and 93 patients (46.5%) were non-vegetarians. Mean hemoglobin was 7.16 ± 2.04 g/dl, mean total leucocyte count was 2.51 ± 1.02 x 103/cu. mm, mean platelet count was 54885.37 x 103/ul ± 40320.96 and mean the absolute neutrophil count was 1.59 x 103 /cu.mm ± 0.84. Ten patients of pancytopenia were because of tropical fever which included 4 cases of dengue, 3 cases of malaria, 2 cases of enteric fever and 1case of mixed infection (malaria + scrub typhus). Viral markers were positive in 14 out of the 63 patients tested. Out of these 14 patients, 4 were HBsAg reactive, 7 were HCV +ve and 3 were HIV +ve. Most common red blood cell picture on peripheral blood film was normocytic normochromic (34.5%), followed by mixed morphology (33.5%). Macrocytic and microcytic morphology was seen in 19.5% and 12.5% of the patients respectively. Hypercellular marrow was seen in 82 patients (42.9%), normocellular marrow was seen in 58 patients (30.3%) and hypocellular marrow was seen in 51 patients (26.7%). The most common cause of pancytopenia in this study was megaloblastic anemia in 59 patients (29.5%), the 2nd common cause was leukemias in 28 patients (14%) and the 3rd cause was aplastic anemia in 22 patients (11%). Drug induced pancytopenia was seen in 21 patients (10.5%) and hypersplenism in 9 cases (4.5%).

Conclusion: This study has helped us in knowing the various etiologies of pancytopeniain this hospital. Megaloblastic anemia was the most common etiology in this study followed by leukemiasand aplastic anemia. The study helped us in understanding of the age and gender distribution, the hematological parameters, the peripheral blood film in pancytopenia and the bone marrow picture in these patients.
LCK expression is a potential biomarker for distinguishing primary central nervous system lymphoma from glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Ge Le , Xu Lixia , Lu Shan , Yan Hua
Published: April 2020

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) are both malignant cerebral tumors; however, their treatments are vastly different. Early and precise diagnosis is vital for subsequent adequate treatment to improve prognosis. Reliable biomarkers that can easily distinguish GBM and PCNSL are urgently needed. We evaluated the diagnostic potential of lymphocyte‐specific protein tyrosine kinase (LCK) as a biomarker in differentiating PCNSL from GBM using established computational approaches (Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, The Cancer Proteome Atlas, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource, GEO, Oncomine) and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that LCK was expressed at a high level in PCNSL patients but at a low level in GBM patients. Moreover, LCK expression positively correlated with the levels of infiltrating B cells in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and GBM. Overall, bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemistry revealed that LCK expression is a potential biomarker for distinguishing PCNSL from GBM.
PBK attenuates paclitaxel‐induced autophagic cell death by suppressing p53 in H460 non‐small‐cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Park Jung‐Hwan , Park Sang‐Ah , Lee Young‐Ju , Park Hwan‐Woo , Oh Sang‐Muk
Published: April 2020

PDZ‐binding kinase (PBK) has previously been shown to mediate chemoresistance of cancer cells to anticancer drugs. However, it remains unclear how PBK regulates paclitaxel‐induced cancer cell death. Here, we demonstrate that PBK hinders paclitaxel‐mediated autophagic cell death in H460 non‐small‐cell lung cancer cells. PBK knockdown increased apoptosis, autophagy, p53 level, and LC3 puncta upon paclitaxel treatment. Moreover, p53 expression facilitated an increase in the LC3‐II/LC3‐I ratio in response to paclitaxel, and PBK knockdown augmented paclitaxel‐mediated p53 transcriptional activity. Meanwhile, paclitaxel induced PBK‐mediated p53 nuclear export and its subsequent ubiquitination in control cells, but not in PBK knockdown cells. We conclude that PBK hampers paclitaxel‐induced autophagic cell death by suppressing p53, suggesting a potential role of PBK in p53‐mediated H460 cell death.
The effect of the horizontal metallic drive on reference dosimetry in the SNC 3D scanner water tank
Authors: Aftab Sadia , Barnes Michael P. , Doebrich Marcus , Lehmann Joerg
Published: April 2020

Accurate quantification of absorbed radiation dose is important for safe and effective delivery of radiation therapy. An important aspect to this is reference dosimetry, which is performed under reference conditions specified by international codes of practice. Such measurements are usually performed in a water phantom. In the Sun Nuclear Corporation (SNC) three‐dimensional (3D) scanner water tank system the detector holder is fixed to a horizontal metallic drive rail (MDR) which is in close proximity to the active volume of the detector. In this project, the dosimetric effects of the MDR on reference dosimetry were investigated for MV photons, MeV electrons, and kV photons by comparing reference dosimetry measurements in the SNC 3D scanner against similar measurements in a Standard Imaging (SI) one‐dimensional (1D) tank and against measurements in the SNC 3D scanner with an additional, custom‐made spacer placed beneath the chamber holder to increase the chamber ‐ MDR separation. A second experiment investigated the difference in chamber reading dependent on chamber to MDR separation by fixing the chamber in the tank independently of the MDR and successively moving the MDR vertically to alter the separation. The results showed that measurements in the SNC 3D scanner agree with both SI 1D tank and SNC 3D scanner with spacer to within ±0.3% for MV photons, ±0.1% for electrons and ±1.2% for kV photons within the calculated setup uncertainty. The second experiment showed that the contribution of backscatter from the MDR was significant if the distance between MDR and chamber was reduced below the chamber's designed position in the SNC 3D scanner. The exception was for kV photons where the contribution of backscatter from the MDR was measured to be 0.5% at the designed distance. Further investigation would be useful for kV photons, where the experiment showed relatively large measurement uncertainties.
Expanding the clinical and genetic heterogeneity of SPAX5
Authors: Dosi Claudia , Galatolo Daniele , Rubegni Anna , Doccini Stefano , Pasquariello Rosa , Nesti Claudia , Sicca Federico , Barghigiani Melissa , Battini Roberta , Tessa Alessandra , Santorelli Filippo M.
Published: April 2020

Mutations in the ATPase family 3‐like gene (AFG3L2) have been linked to autosomal‐dominant spinocerebellar ataxia type 28 and autosomal recessive spastic ataxia‐neuropathy syndrome. Here, we describe the case of a child carrying bi‐allelic mutations in AFG3L2 and presenting with ictal paroxysmal episodes associated with neuroimaging suggestive of basal ganglia involvement. Studies in skin fibroblasts showed a significant reduction of AFG3L2 expression. The relatively mild clinical presentation and the benign course, in spite of severe neuroimaging features, distinguish this case from data reported in the literature, and therefore expand the spectrum of neurological and neuroradiological features associated with AFG3L2 mutations.
Event‐based model‐free sliding mode control for an inspection robot
Authors: Chen Lin , Duan Haibin , Dian Songyi , Hoang Son
Published: April 2020

This article investigates the balance adjustment control of a power line inspection robot under the circumstance that (a) only the I/O information of the system is available and (b) the information is sampled aperiodically. To address the problem, an event‐based model‐free sliding mode control algorithm is proposed. The full‐form dynamic linearization (FFDL) technique is first employed to approximate the original nonlinear system via an unknown pseudo‐partial derivative (PPD) Jacobean matrix. Then, an observer is designed to obtain the update law of the PPD matrix using the aperiodically sampled I/O incremental data. Meanwhile, an event‐triggered mechanism is presented to determine when the data can be delivered to the observer. A model‐free sliding mode control framework combined with the established FFDL model, observer, and the event‐triggered mechanism is designed. The stability of the closed‐loop system and the scale of the controller's parameters are confirmed using the Lyapunov theorem. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Heat Engine Drives Transport of an FeII4L4 Cage and Cargo
Authors: Nguyen Bao‐Nguyen T. , Grommet Angela B. , Tron Arnaud , Georges Maureen C. A. , Nitschke Jonathan R.
Published: April 2020

The directed motion of species against a chemical potential gradient is a fundamental feature of living systems, underpinning processes that range from transport through cell membranes to neurotransmission. The development of artificial active cargo transport could enable new modes of chemical purification and pumping. Here, a heat engine is described that drives chemical cargo between liquid phases to generate a concentration gradient. The heat engine, composed of a functionalized FeII4L4 coordination cage, is grafted with oligoethylene glycol imidazolium chains. These chains undergo a conformational change upon heating, causing the cage and its cargo to reversibly transfer between aqueous and organic phases. Furthermore, sectional heating and cooling allow for the cage to traverse multiple phase boundaries, allowing for longer‐distance transport than would be possible using a single pair of phases.
Gap Plasmon of Virus‐Templated Biohybrid Nanostructures Uplifting the Performance of Organic Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Lee Hock Beng , Kim Won‐Geun , Lee Miso , Lee Jong‐Min , He Siwei , Kumar Neetesh , Devaraj Vasanthan , Choi Eun Jung , Jeon Il , Song Myungkwan , Oh Jin‐Woo , Kang Jae‐Wook
Published: April 2020

Plasmonic nanostructures, which exhibit prominent localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) properties, are highly desirable for organic solar cells (OSC) and organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) devices. In the present work, novel plasmonic bio‐nanostructures are successfully synthesized via the self‐densification of silver (Ag) and gold (Au) metallic nanoparticles (NPs) onto a genetically engineered M13 bacteriophage template. Owing to the unique charge selectivity of the peptide receptors on the M13 bacteriophage, the metallic NPs can be directly anchored onto the bacteriophage through charge‐driven interactions without binder/surfactant. The resulting Ag/AuNP‐M13 bio‐nanostructures display extraordinary gap‐plasmon effect as well as tremendously enhanced LSPR properties than the randomly dispersed Ag/Au NPs. The incorporation of Ag/AuNP‐M13 bio‐nanostructures tremendously improves the performance of both OSC and OLED devices. Specifically, a power conversion efficiency increment of 15.5% is recorded for the phage‐modified OSCs; whereas an external quantum efficiency increment of 22.6% is achieved for the phage‐modified OLEDs. Based on this environmentally benign virus‐template approach, various plasmonic/photonic bio‐nanostructures can be designed for diverse device applications.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Reductive Carboxylation of Aryl Bromides with Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Hang Wei , Yi Yaping , Xi Chanjuan
Published: April 2020

Cobalt‐catalyzed reductive carboxylation of aryl bromides with carbon dioxide has been developed. The reaction proceeded under one atm pressure of CO2 at 40 °C in the presence of cobalt iodide/2,2′‐bipyridine catalysts and zinc dust as a reducing reagent. Various aryl bromides could be converted to the corresponding carboxylic acids in good to high yields. Preliminary mechanistic experiments ruled out intervention of intermediate organozinc species for carboxylation with CO2, thus suggesting a direct CO2 insertion into the corresponding ArCoBr species.

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Modifying effects of hydrogen sulfide on the rheometric properties of liquid elemental sulfur
Authors: Stashick Mitchell J. , Sofekun Gabriel O. , Marriott Robert A.
Published: April 2020

Handling molten sulfur is inherently difficult due to liquid sulfur's extreme rheological behavior. Upon melting at 115°C, sulfur's viscosity remains low until reaching 160°C, the λ‐transition region, where the viscosity increases to a maximum of 93,000 × 10−3 Pa s at 187°C. Within this study, our previous viscosity measurements for pure liquid elemental sulfur have been discussed along with new measurements on sulfur containing physically and chemically dissolved hydrogen sulfide (H2S). H2S is always incorporated into industrial sulfur which has been recovered through the modified Claus process in gas plants and oil refineries. Using the experimental data from this study, a semi‐empirical correlation model was reported based on the reptation model of Cates to estimate the impact of H2S on liquid sulfur's viscosity as a function of temperature. The equation can be applied to commercial sources of sulfur with 0–500 ppm of total dissolved H2S.
The estimated prevalence of exposure to carcinogens, asthmagens, and ototoxic agents among healthcare workers in Australia
Authors: Rai Rajni , Fritschi Lin , Carey Renee N. , Lewkowski Kate , Glass Deborah C. , Dorji Nidup , El‐Zaemey Sonia
Published: April 2020

Background

Healthcare workers are occupationally exposed to various hazardous chemicals and agents that can potentially result in long‐term adverse health effects. These exposures have not been comprehensively examined at a population level. The aim of this study was to examine occupational exposures to a wide range of asthmagens, carcinogens, and ototoxic agents among healthcare workers in Australia.

Methods

Data were collected as part of the Australian Work Exposures Studies, which were computer‐assisted telephone surveys conducted in 2011, 2014, and 2016 to assess the prevalence of occupational exposures to carcinogens, asthmagens, and ototoxic agents, respectively, among Australian workers. Using data on healthcare workers, the prevalence of exposures to these agents was calculated and associations of demographic variables and occupation groups with exposure status were examined.

Results

The prevalence of exposure to at least one asthmagen, carcinogen, and ototoxic agent was 92.3%, 50.7%, and 44.6%, respectively. The most common exposures were to (a) cleaning and sterilizing agents in the asthmagen group; (b) shift work in the carcinogen group; and (c) toluene and p‐xylene among ototoxic agents. Exposure varied by occupation, with exposure to carcinogens and ototoxic agents highest among personal carers and exposure to carcinogens most likely among nursing professionals and health and welfare support workers.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that a substantial proportion of Australian healthcare workers are occupationally exposed to asthmagens, carcinogens, and ototoxic agents. These exposures are more common among certain occupational groups. The information provided by this study will be useful in prioritizing and implementing control strategies.
Reactivity of Azasydnones: Unusual Diversity in Reactions of Chloro‐ and Nitrophenyl Derivatives with Nitrogen Nucleophiles
Authors: Dalinger Igor L. , Kormanov Alexandr V. , Shkineva Tatyana K. , Sheremetev Aleksei B.
Published: April 2020

Reaction with nucleophiles of a range of 3‐arylazasydnones bearing chloro and nitro substituents at the various positons at the phenyl ring using ammonia, primary and secondary amines and azide ion has been assessed in order to develop methodology for the synthesis of corresponding aminophenyl azasydnone derivatives. It has been shown that a nitrogen nucleophile can cause (i) an SNAr reaction when a halogen or the azasydnone moiety itself can be a leaving group; (ii) the azasydnone ring‐opening leading to the formation of aryl azides or azocarboxamides. The observed reactivity of the substrates is discussed in the context of the substituent effect and the nature of the nucleophile.
Towards an Understanding of the “Ambiphilic” Character of Ionic Liquids for Green Synthesis of Chemically Diverse Architectures
Authors: Sinha Arun K. , Singh Richa , Kumar Rajesh
Published: April 2020

For over a decade, ionic liquids have been recognized as green solvents and/or catalysts in the chemical world owing to their unique physical/chemical properties resulting in a diverse range of chemical and biochemical transformations. One of the striking features of ionic liquids is their ability to act as an ambiphilic catalyst i. e. dual electrophilic‐nucleophilic activation of the substrate. The complex interplay of hydrogen bonding, Coulomb and Van‐der Waals interactions between the cationic and anionic part of ionic liquid imparts this ambiphilicity to the ionic liquid. Notably, the present review highlights the channelization of this ambiphic characteristic for various organic synthesis along with the understanding of the mechanism involved. Thus, the better understanding of the ambiphilic character of ionic liquid may open a new perspective of ionic liquid research and their use may trigger many unprecedented reactions which otherwise are tedious or complex.
Veredelung von Kupfer(II)‐azid mittels 1‐Alkyl‐5H‐tetrazolen: Leistungsfähige energetische Komplexverbindungen
Authors: Wurzenberger Maximilian H. H. , Lommel Marcus , Gruhne Michael S. , Szimhardt Norbert , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: April 2020

Ein Konzept zur Stabilisierung des hochempfindlichen und explosiven Kupfer(II)‐azids mittels 1‐N‐substituierten Tetrazolen wird beschrieben. Durch die Verwendung stark endothermer, stickstoffreicher Liganden wurde eine Stabilisierung des Systems erreicht. Die Sensitivitäten der resultierenden energetischen Komplexverbindungen können außerdem durch Veränderung der Alkylkette am Liganden oder durch Phlegmatisierung der Komplexe mithilfe klassischer Additive abgestimmt werden. Anhand der Verbindung [Cu(N3)2(MTZ)] (1; MTZ=1‐Methyl‐5H‐tetrazol, wird gezeigt, dass diese Klasse von Komplexverbindungen als potentielle Ersatzstoffe für sowohl Bleiazid (LA) als auch Bleistyphnat (LS) in Frage kommt. Die Komplexe wurden bezüglich ihrer chemischen (Elementaranalyse, Einkristall‐ und Pulver‐Röntgendiffraktometrie, IR‐Spektroskopie, Rasterelektronenmikroskopie) und physikochemischen Eigenschaften (Differenz‐Thermoanalyse, Sensitivitäten gegenüber Schlag, Reibung und elektrostatische Entladung) genau untersucht und mit reinem Kupfer(II)‐azid verglichen.
Structural‐Deformation‐Energy‐Modulation Strategy in a Soft Porous Coordination Polymer with an Interpenetrated Framework
Authors: Gu Yifan , Zheng Jia‐Jia , Otake Ken‐ichi , Sugimoto Kunihisa , Hosono Nobuhiko , Sakaki Shigeyoshi , Li Fengting , Kitagawa Susumu
Published: April 2020

To achieve unique molecular‐recognition patterns, a rational control of the flexibility of porous coordination polymers (PCPs) is highly sought, but it remains elusive. From a thermodynamic perspective, the competitive relationship between the structural deformation energy (Edef) of soft PCPs and the guest interaction is key for selective a guest‐triggered structural‐transformation behavior. Therefore, it is vital to investigate and control Edef to regulate this competition for flexibility control. Driven by these theoretical insights, we demonstrate an Edef‐modulation strategy via encoding inter‐framework hydrogen bonds into a soft PCP with an interpenetrated structure. As a proof of this concept, the enhanced Edef of PCP enables a selective gate‐opening behavior toward CHCl3 over CH2Cl2 by changing the adsorption‐energy landscape of the compounds. This study provides a new direction for the design of functional soft porous materials.
Implementing Daily Management Systems to Support Sustained Quality Improvement in Ambulatory Surgery Centers
Authors: Rakover Jeffrey , Little Kevin , Scoville Richard , Holder Barbara
Published: April 2020

Quality improvement processes and management approaches that provide a foundation for continuous quality improvement can lead to improved patient care. The Institute for Healthcare Improvement developed a high‐performance management system (HPMS) for health care leaders and staff members to effect continuous quality control, and then conducted a pilot of the system in several ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). The primary focus of the pilot program in the ASC setting was to understand the applicability of the theory of quality control using related practices (eg, standardized daily huddles, visual management boards) included in the modified HPMS. After implementing the new program, pilot site leaders observed an improvement of approximately 10 percentage points in their Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality patient safety culture survey scores. At the end of the pilot, the researchers concluded that ASC leaders can improve patient care and sustain improvement in their organizations using the HPMS practices.
Substituted 2‐thioxothiazolidin‐4‐one derivatives showed protective effects against diabetic cataract via inhibition of aldose reductase
Authors: Huang Wanrong , Zhang Yue , Liang Xu , Yang Lichun
Published: April 2020

In an effort to develop a new class of potent aldose reductase inhibitors against diabetic cataracts, a series of novel 2‐thioxothiazolidine‐4‐one derivatives was synthesized in excellent yields via a facile synthetic route. These compounds were tested against aldehyde (ALR1) and aldose reductase (ALR2) enzymes, where they showed considerable inhibitory activity. Among the tested derivatives, compound 6e showed selective and excellent inhibition of ALR2 over ALR1. The experimental diabetes was induced by the intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin in male Wistar rats. Compound 6e showed positive modulation of body weight, blood glucose, and blood insulin levels in diabetic rats. Compound 6e also showed ALR2 inhibition as evidenced by Western blot analysis in lens homogenates of Wistar rats having cataract. The docking study of 6e was also performed inside the active site of ALR2 to enumerate the key contacts for inhibitory activity.
Pathogenic Activation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Is Induced by the Disease Microenvironment in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Taki Zeinab , Gostjeva Elena , Thilly William , Yaseen Bodoor , Lopez Henry , Mirza Maria , Hassuji Zainab , Vigneswaran Shivanee , Ahmed Abdi Bahja , Hart Amy , Arumalla Nikita , Thomas Gemma , Denton Christopher P. , Suleman Yasir , Liu Huan , Venturini Cristina , O'Reilly Steven , Xu Shiwen , Stratton Richard
Published: April 2020

Objective

In systemic sclerosis (SSc), a persistent tissue repair process leads to progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. The role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which characteristically initiate and regulate tissue repair, has not been fully evaluated. We undertook this study to investigate whether dividing metakaryotic MSCs are present in SSc skin and to examine whether exposure to the disease microenvironment activates MSCs and leads to transdifferentiation.

Methods

Skin biopsy material from patients with recent‐onset diffuse SSc was examined by collagenase spread of 1‐mm–thick surface‐parallel sections, in order to identify dividing metakaryotic stem cells in each tissue plane. Adipose‐derived MSCs from healthy controls were treated with dermal blister fluid (BF) from patients with diffuse SSc and profiled by next‐generation sequencing, or they were evaluated for phenotypic changes relevant to SSc. Differential responses of dermal fibroblasts were studied in parallel.

Results

MSC‐like cells undergoing active metakaryotic division were identified in SSc sections (but not control sections) most prominently in the deep dermis and adjacent to damaged microvessels, in both clinically involved and uninvolved skin. Furthermore, exposure to SSc BF caused selective MSC activation, inducing a myofibroblast signature, while reducing signatures of vascular repair and adipogenesis and enhancing migration and contractility. Microenvironmental factors implicated in inducing transdifferentiation included the profibrotic transforming growth factor β, the presence of lactate, and mechanosensing, while the microenvironment Th2 cytokine, interleukin‐31, enhanced osteogenic commitment (calcinosis).

Conclusion

Dividing MSC‐like cells are present in the SSc disease microenvironment where multiple factors, likely acting in concert, promote transdifferentiation and lead to a complex and resistant disease state.
Novel and de novo point and large microdeletion mutation in PRRT2‐related epilepsy
Authors: Yang Li , You Cuiping , Qiu Shiyan , Yang Xiaofan , Li Yufen , Liu Feng , Zhang Dongqing , Niu Yue , Xu Liyun , Xu Na , Li Xia , Luo Fang , Yang Junli , Li Baomin
Published: April 2020

Background

Point and copy number variant mutations in the PRRT2 gene have been identified in a variety of paroxysmal disorders and different types of epilepsy. In this study, we analyzed the phenotypes and PRRT2‐related mutations in Chinese epilepsy children.

Methods

A total of 492 children with epilepsy were analyzed by whole exome sequencing (WES) and low‐coverage massively parallel CNV sequencing (CNV‐seq) to find the single nucleotide variants and copy number variations (CNVs). And quantitative polymerase chain reaction was utilized to verify the CNVs. Their clinical information was followed up.

Results

We found PRRT2‐related mutations in 19 patients (10 males and nine females, six sporadic cases and 13 family cases). Twelve point mutations, four whole gene deletion, and three 16p11.2 deletions were detected. The clinical features of 39 patients in 19 families included one early childhood myoclonic epilepsy (ECME), one febrile seizure (FS), two infantile convulsions with paroxysmal choreoathetosis (ICCA), six paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesias (PKD), 12 benign infantile epilepsy (BIE), and 17 benign familial infantile epilepsy (BFIE). All patients had normal brain MRI. Interictal EEG showed only one patient had generalized polyspike wave and five patients had focal transient discharges. Focal seizures originating in the frontal region were recorded in one patient, two from the temporal region, and two from the occipital region. Most patients were treated effectively with VPA or OXC, and the child with myoclonic seizures was not sensitive to antiepileptic drugs.

Conclusion

PRRT2 mutations can be inherited or de novo, mainly inherited. The clinical spectrum of PRRT2 mutation includes BIE, BFIE, ICCA, PKD, FS, and ECME. The PRRT2‐related mutations contained point mutation, whole gene deletion and 16p11.2 deletions, and large microdeletion mutations mostly de novo. It is the first report of PRRT2 mutation found in ECME. Our report expands the mutation and clinical spectrum of PRRT2‐related epilepsy.
CXCL5/CXCR2 axis in tumor microenvironment as potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wang Huishan , Sun Mingyang , Deng Xueting , Wu Xueru , Ma Yilan , Li Mengjing , Shuoa Said Maisam , You Qiang , Miao Lin
Published: April 2020

The components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in solid tumors, especially chemokines, are currently attracting much attention from scientists. C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CXCL5) is one of the important chemokines in TME. Overexpression of CXCL5 is closely related to the survival time, recurrence and metastasis of cancer patients. In TME, CXCL5 binds to its receptors, such as C‐X‐C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2), to participate in the recruitment of immune cells and promote angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis. The CXCL5/CXCR2 axis can act as a bridge between tumor cells and host cells in TME. Blocking the transmission of CXCL5/CXCR2 signals can increase the sensitivity and effectiveness of immunotherapy and slow down tumor progression. CXCL5 and CXCR2 are also regarded as biomarkers for predicting prognosis and molecular targets for customizing the treatment. In this review, we summarized the current literature regarding the biological functions and clinical significance of CXCL5/CXCR2 axis in TME. The possibility to use CXCL5 and CXCR2 as potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in cancer is also discussed
Gene signatures associated with genomic aberrations predict prognosis in neuroblastoma
Authors: He Xiaoyan , Qin Chao , Zhao Yanding , Zou Lin , Zhao Hui , Cheng Chao
Published: April 2020

Background

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a heterogeneous disease with respect to genomic abnormalities and clinical behaviors. Despite recent advances in our understanding of the association between the genetic aberrations and clinical features, it remains one of the major challenges to predict prognosis and stratify patients for determining personalized therapy in this disease. The aim of this study was to develop an effective prognosis prediction model for NB patients.

Methods

We integrated diverse computational analyses to define gene signatures that reflect MYCN activity and chromosomal aberrations including deletion of chromosome 1p (Chr1p_del) and chromosome 11q (Chr11q_del) as well as chromosome 11q whole loss (Chr11q_wls). We evaluated the prognostic and predictive values of these signatures in seven NB gene expression datasets (the number of samples ranges from 94 to 498, with a total of 2120) generated from both RNA sequencing and microarray platforms.

Results

MYCN signature was a more effective prognostic marker than MYCN amplification status and MYCN expression. Similarly, the Chr1p_del score was more prognostic than Chr1p status. The activity scores of MYCN, Chr1p_del and Chr11q_del were associated with poor prognosis, while the Chr11q_wls score was linked to good outcome. We integrated the activity scores of MYCN, Chr1p_del, Chr11q_del, and Chr11q_wls and clinical variables into an integrative prognostic model, which displayed significant performance over the clinical variables or each genomic aberration alone.

Conclusions

Our integrative gene signature model shows a significantly improved forecast performance with prognostic and predictive information, and thereby can be served as a biomarker to stratify NB patients for prognosis evaluation and surveillance programs.
Robust expression of SIRT6 inhibits pulpitis via activation of the TRPV1 channel
Authors: Hu Jia , Chen Weiran , Qiu Zailing , Lv Hongbing
Published: April 2020

Invasion of dentinal tubules and pulp tissue by pathogenic bacteria may cause infection leading to pulpitis. Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) is a NAD‐dependent protein deacetylase encoded by the SIRT6 gene. The effect of SIRT6 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced pulpitis and its mechanism of action were discussed in this study. Dental pulp cells (DPCs) were extracted from human teeth and injected with LPS to induce inflammation. The cells injected with LPS showed substantially decreased expression of SIRT6. The overexpression of SIRT6, induced by plasmid‐transfection of DPCs with SIRT6 overexpressing vector, led to a marked decrease in proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α) and deactivation of NF kappa B pathway. Additionally, dentin matrix protein‐1 (DMP1), a promoter of inflammation in dental pulp tissues, was downregulated. Further investigation revealed that SIRT6 promotes ubiquitination of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel, leading to its degradation and deactivation. The role of TRPV1 in the anti‐inflammatory effects of SIRT6 was determined through incubation of SIRT6‐expressing dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) with capsaicin. This incubation counteracted the effect of SIRT6 on cytokines and DMP1. The injection of lentivirus‐SIRT6 attenuated LPS‐induced pulpitis in vivo by suppressing TRPV1 activity. Thus, SIRT6 inhibits the TRPV1 channel during LPS‐induced inflammation of dental pulp.

Significance of the Study

This study discussed the effect of sirtuin 6 (SIRT6) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced pulpitis as well as its mechanism of action and found that SIRT6 may be a negative regulator of pulpitis. Additionally, low expression of SIRT6 and high expression of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) in LPS‐treated human dental pulp cells are closely associated with proinflammatory cytokines, dentin matrix protein 1 expression, and activation of the NF‐κB pathway, which indicated that TRPV1 may be a biomarker for pulpitis and the SIRT6‐TRPV1‐CGRP axis maybe a clinical target due to their role regulating inflammation and neuropathic pain.
Three contemporary thin‐strut drug‐eluting stents implanted in severely calcified coronary lesions of participants in a randomized all‐comers trial
Authors: Buiten Rosaly A. , Ploumen Eline H. , Zocca Paolo , Doggen Carine J. M. , van Houwelingen K. Gert , Danse Peter W. , Schotborgh Carl E. , Stoel Martin G. , Scholte Martijn , Linssen Gerard C. M. , de Man Frits H. A. F. , von Birgelen Clemens
Published: April 2020

Objective

The objective was to assess the 2‐year clinical performance of three drug‐eluting stents in all‐comer patients with severely calcified coronary lesions.

Background

Severe lesion calcification increases cardiovascular event risk after coronary stenting, but there is a lack of data on the clinical outcome of all‐comers with severely calcified lesions who were treated with more recently introduced drug‐eluting stents.

Methods

The BIO‐RESORT trial (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01674803) randomly assigned 3,514 all‐comer patients to biodegradable polymer Synergy everolimus‐eluting stents (EES) or Orsiro sirolimus‐eluting stents (SES), versus durable polymer Resolute Integrity zotarolimus‐eluting stents (ZES). In a post hoc analysis, we assessed 783 patients (22.3%) with at least one severely calcified target lesion.

Results

At 2‐year follow‐up (available in 99% of patients), the main composite endpoint target vessel failure occurred in 19/252 (7.6%) of the EES and in 33/265 (12.6%) of the ZES‐treated patients (p = .07). Target vessel failure occurred in 24/266 (9.1%) of the SES‐treated patients (vs. ZES: p = .21). There was a difference in target vessel revascularization, which was required in EES in 6/252 (2.4%) patients and in ZES in 20/265 (7.7%) patients (p = .01); the target vessel revascularization rate in SES was 9/266 (3.4%, vs. ZES: p = .04). Multivariate analysis showed that implantation of EES, but not SES, was independently associated with lower target vessel revascularization rates than in ZES.

Conclusions

In BIO‐RESORT participants with severely calcified target lesions, treatment with EES was associated with a lower 2‐year target vessel revascularization rate than treatment with ZES.