bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grain quality of maize hybrids submitted to different sowing times and nitrogen rates
Authors: Berghetti Juliano , Casa Ricardo Trezzi , Coelho Antônio Eduardo , Sangoi Luis , Da Silva Fabio Nascimento , Scheidt Bruno Tabarelli , Martins Flávio Chupel , Ludwig André Henrique
Published: April 2020

Grain quality is essential in the food industry, and it shows variations depending on crop management conditions in the field. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of hybrids, sowing seasons, and topdressing nitrogen rates on the incidence of damaged grains and their correlation with pathogenic fungi. The experiment was conducted under field conditions in Atalanta, Santa Catarina, Brazil, in a split split-plot randomized block design consisting of the AG9025 PRO3 (super-early) and 30F53 VYH (early) hybrids, preferential (September 20) and late (December 5) sowing season, and nitrogen rates (0, 150, 300, and 450 kg ha-1). The percentage of normal, fermented, and burned grains, as well as the incidence of fungi in grains, were quantified. The hybrid 30F53 VYH had shown the lowest percentage of fermented grains (8.4%) when compared to the hybrid AG9025 PRO3 (43.2%). No significant difference was observed between the sowing season for fermented grains. The hybrid AG9025 PRO3 had shown an increase in fermented grains with nitrogen addition, while the hybrid 30F53 VYH presented a stable behavior. The hybrid AG9025 PRO3 (35.5%) showed the lowest incidence of Fusarium verticillioides in the grains when compared to the hybrid 30F53 VYH (49.9%). The fungus incidence was also lower in the preferential sowing season (35.7%) than in the late one (49.7%). The hybrid AG9025 PRO3 maintained the percentage of fungus incidence stable as a function of nitrogen rates. No significant correlation was observed between the percentage of normal and fermented grains with the incidence of F. verticillioides.
Daniel Juliá
Authors: Albadalejo Carlos
Published: April 2020

Daniel Juliá es un desarrollador que, además de ser experto en flash, ha creado sus propias aplicaciones. En esta entrevista nos habla de sus trabajos y de las diferencias entre flash y AJAX.
Drac Pixel
Authors: Albaladejo Carlos
Published: April 2020

Drac Píxel es la empresa multimedia responsable de los procesos de video-streaming del pasado Internet Global Congress, en esta entrevista nos hablan de cómo gestionan ese y otros aspectos de su trabajo como agencia.
Understanding the spread of de novo and transmitted macrolide-resistance in Mycoplasma genitalium
Authors: Cadosch Dominique , Garcia Victor , Jensen Jørgen S. , Low Nicola , Althaus Christian L.
Published: April 2020

Background

The rapid spread of azithromycin resistance in sexually transmitted Mycoplasma genitalium infections is a growing concern. It is not yet clear to what degree macrolide resistance in M. genitalium results from the emergence of de novo mutations or the transmission of resistant strains.

Methods

We developed a compartmental transmission model to investigate the contribution of de novo macrolide resistance mutations to the spread of antimicrobial-resistant M. genitalium. We fitted the model to resistance data from France, Denmark and Sweden, estimated the time point of azithromycin introduction and the rates at which infected individuals receive treatment, and projected the future spread of resistance.

Results

The high probability of de novo resistance in M. genitalium accelerates the early spread of antimicrobial resistance. The relative contribution of de novo resistance subsequently decreases, and the spread of resistant infections in France, Denmark and Sweden is now mainly driven by transmitted resistance. If treatment with single-dose azithromycin continues at current rates, macrolide-resistant M. genitalium infections will reach 25% (95% confidence interval, CI [9–30]%) in France, 84% (95% CI [36–98]%) in Denmark and 62% (95% CI [48–76]%) in Sweden by 2025.

Conclusions

Blind treatment of urethritis with single-dose azithromycin continues to select for the spread of macrolide resistant M. genitalium. Clinical management strategies for M. genitalium should limit the unnecessary use of macrolides.
Diffusion tubes: a method for the mass culture of ctenophores and other pelagic marine invertebrates
Authors: Patry Wyatt L. , Bubel MacKenzie , Hansen Cypress , Knowles Thomas
Published: April 2020

The culture of pelagic marine invertebrates, especially the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi, has been demonstrated in past studies dating back to the 1960s; however, the mass culture of delicate pelagic invertebrates has remained elusive. By using a pair of acrylic tubes and enabling water diffusion between them, we have been able to reliably and cost effectively mass culture several genera of ctenophores (Pleurobrachia, Hormiphora, Bolinopsis, Mnemiopsis and Leucothea), one species of siphonophore (Nanomia) and one species of larvacean (Oikopleura). The simple, compact method is effective enough to support two permanent exhibits of ctenophores at the Monterey Bay Aquarium while minimizing live food culture requirements with the potential to support further investigation of pelagic marine invertebrate ontogeny, ecology and genomics.
Farmers’ Attitude towards Production and Utilization of Biochar as Ecofriendly Practice
Authors: Rahman M. S. , Karim M. R. , Barman J. K. , Islam M. M.
Published: April 2020

The main objective of the study was to determine the farmers’ attitude towards production and utilization of biochar as ecofriendly practice. Data were collected through personal interview from 104 randomly selected farmers at Nawabgang Upazila (sub-district) of Dinajpur district in the northern Bangladesh. A pretested and structured interview schedule was used to collect data from the respondents during 15 March to 18 April, 2017. Simple and direct questions with different scales were used to obtain information. Descriptive statistics are used to explain the selected characteristics of the farmers. The co-efficient of correlation (r) test was computed in order to explore the relationships between ten selected characteristics of the farmers and their attitude towards biochar production and utilization as ecofriendly practice. The results indicated that more than three-fourths (76.92%) farmers had highly favorable attitude towards biochar production and utilization as eco-friendly practice, while 15.38% moderately favorable attitude and 7.7% had slightly favorable attitude. Correlation coefficient analysis indicated that among 10 characteristics of farmers such as farm size, annual household income, training received, credit received, organizational participation and extension media contact had significant relationships with their attitude toward biochar production and utilization. However, age, education, family size and cosmopoliteness had no significant relationships with their attitude towards production and utilization of biochar as ecofriendly practice. The top ranked problem faced by the farmers in implementing of biochar production and utilization was found on ‘lack of woody fuel’. It might be recommended that biochar preparation should be done by using other raw materials such as tree leaves or branches, jute sticks etc available in the locality. Further proper steps should be taken by the concerned authority to maximize extension contact through farm visit, demonstrations and mass media on biochar benefits for enhancing the use of biochar.
Use and Role of Mobile Phone for Information Services in Agricultural Activities
Authors: Karim M. R. , Meem M. A. , Rahman M. S. , Noman M. R. F. , Huda S.
Published: April 2020

The main purpose of this study was to determine the use and role of mobile phone for information services in agricultural activities as well as to explore the relationship between the socio-economic characteristics of women farmers and their use of mobile phone in agricultural activities. Data were collected using pre-tested interview schedule from a sample of 85 women farmers during the month of August 2018. Besides descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (r) was used to explore the significant influencing factors. Ten (10) different android mobile phone apps were identified which are most frequently used by the women farmers in the study area. Among the mobile apps, ‘vutta or maize app’ was found as the top used mobile app for information services in agricultural activities. This might be because of rapidly spreading of maize cultivation as a highly benefited cereal crops against the climatic change situation in the study area. Findings indicated that among the women farmers, majority (64.7 percent) of the women farmers used mobile phone moderately for information services in agricultural activities followed by 23.5 percent high and only 11.8 percent low used of mobile phone. Among ten socio-economic characteristics of the women farmers, education, annual income, organizational participation, training received and ICT self-efficacy had positive significant relationship and influence of the use of mobile phone in agricultural activities. ‘Insect and disease control measures’ was found the 1st ranked agricultural activities in which mobile phone played highest role for information services. It suggests that issues related to economic impact or effect of mobile phone on sustainable livelihood could be considered for future research to be undertaken.
Microbiological and Physicochemical Research of Mountain Spring Waters in Vasiliovska Mountain, Municipality of Teteven, Bulgaria
Authors: Ignatov Ignat , Valcheva Nedyalka
Published: April 2020

Defined are the physicochemical properties of three mountain spring waters in the area of Vasiliovska mountain, Municipality of Teteven, Bulgaria. Vasiliovska mountain is in the central part of Stara Planina (Balkan) mountain.

The methodology is including research of physicochemical parameters and microbiological indicators. It is needed the whole parameters to corresponds to Ordinance № 9 / 2001, Official State Gazette, issue 30, and decree № 178 / 23.07.2004 about the quality of water, intended for drinking purposes in Bulgaria, European Union [1,2,3].

The spring waters from the given three water sources are characterized by microbiological indicators, and the pathogenic micro-organisms in the samples from the springs water sources mentioned above are determined by the membrane method [4,5].

It is shown that according to 18 controlled parameters included in the study, the following springs in Vasiliovska mountain - “Babintsi” with water temperature 12.3°C, “Gechovoto” with water temperature 13.5°C, “Ignatov izvor” with water temperature 14.1°C, correspond to all controlled parameters according to Ordinance № 9 / 2001, Official State Gazette, issue 30, and decree № 178 / 23.07.2004 about the quality of water, intended for drinking purposes.
Nutrient and Bioactive Components of Annona muricata and Fagara zanthoxyloide of South-Southern Nigeria
Authors: Ekere O. U. , Monago-Ighorodje C. C. , Ogunka-Nnoka C. U.
Published: April 2020

This study was aimed at investigating the nutrient and bioactive components of Annona muricata and Fagara zanthxoyloide from south-southern Nigeria. The roots and leaves of these plants were collected from communities within this region and an analysis of the phytochemical, mineral and vitamin components of these plant parts were carried out using standard methods. The results of the investigation revealed the a high presence of alkaloids (27.34 ± 0.15 and 12.98 ± 0.98), flavonoids (19.66 ± 0.04 and 3.71 ± 0.46) and phenols (15.10 ± 0.11 and 0.07 ± 0.42) in the leaves and roots of Annona muricata while alkaloids (35.55 ± 0.95 and 50.90 ± 0.83), tannins (28.70 ± 0.19 and 55.37 ± 0.47) and terpenoids (18.23 ± 0.08 and 41.21 ± 0.16) were observed in leaves and roots of Fagara zanthoxyloide. Mineral analysis revealed the presence of iron (20.23 ± 0.01 and 5.21 ± 0.02), calcium (3.67 ± 0.06 and 1.59 ± 0.01), copper (2.17 ± 0.011 and 0.16 ± 0.01) and magnesium (3.04 ± 0.01 and 2.18 ± 0.005) in leaves and roots of Annona muricata and iron, copper (2.53 ± 0.011 and 7.38 ± 0.017) and zinc (5.16 ± 0.02 and 5.32 ± 0.011) in leaves and roots of Fagara zanthoxyloide. The leaves and roots of both plants also showed the presence of folate (26.82±0.48 and 23.47±0.03 for A. muricata and 15.82±0.18 and 20.63±0.91 for F. zanthoxyloide) and ascorbate (31.97±0.03 and 26.89±0.19 for A. muricata and 13.86±0.13 and 30.21±0.01 for F. zanthoxyloide) in appreciable quantities while vitamins D, E and K were also observed in minute concentrations in both plant samples. These results may thus suggest that these plants from this region as a result of their rich nutrients and bioactive compositions may play a large role in alleviating the salient nutritional, physiological and medical challenges observed among people within this region.
Phenotypic Variation of Tobramycin and Ofloxacin Resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Repeated Exhibition
Authors: Andrianarivelo Andry Maharo , Mahavy Christian Emmanuel , Andrianarisoa Blandine , Rasamiravaka Tsiry
Published: April 2020

Pseudomonas aeruginosa has the ability to resist almost all available antibiotics by rapidly accumulating multiple resistance mechanisms and thus lead to a therapeutic impasse and higher mortality in infected patients.

The objective of this study was to assess the phenotypic variation in resistance to tobramycin and ofloxacin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa by repeated exhibition after determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration.

This is a prospective and descriptive study carried out in the Laboratory of Microbiology of Fundamental and Applied Biochemistry (Faculty of Sciences, Antananarivo) during the month of January 2020. The strains studied were the virulent wild strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 supplied by the Laboratory and two clinical strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from the Microbiology Laboratory of the Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona University Hospital Center, Antananarivo.

The strains of P. aeruginosa were cultured in the liquid culture medium (which is Luria Bertani, added with a buffer system of 3- (N-morpholino) propanesulfonic acid (LB-MOPS) which will stabilize the pH and a solid culture medium which is Columbia agar. Repeated exhibition to Tobramycin and Ofloxacin from these strains have been made. The MIC is determined by a visual evaluation of the turbidity of the various wells of the microplate.

The MIC value of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with tobramycin and ofloxacin is very variable for the initial MIC until the 5th generation after repeated exhibition. More Pseudomonas aeruginosa is exposed to an antibiotic many times, the more it develops resistance to this antibiotic, even being sensitive at the start. That is to say, clinically, the dose prescribed for the antibiotic has been greatly exceeded if Pseudomonas aeruginosa is repeatedly exposed to the same antibiotic.
The Reliability between Placido Topography and Scheimpflug Topography in Normal Corneas with Astigmatism less Than 0.50 Dc
Authors: Pateras E. , Nousi A.
Published: April 2020

Purpose: This Clinical research was targeted to experimentally investigate the reliability between Placido topography and Scheimpflug topography in normal corneas with astigmatism ≤ ±0.50 Dc by comparing the refractive powers at the 4 main meridians (180⁰ - 90⁰) in order to study any differences between the two topographers and their reliability. Comparing the reliability measurements of Placido disk topography (CSO- Modi 02 Corneal Topographer with Phoenix Full & Pupil Module Software) with those of a high-resolution rotating Scheimpflug camera (Pentacam-Oculus,) and assess the agreement between these two topographers in measuring corneal power in normal eyes without astigmatism (≤ 0.50 Dc).

Methods and Materials: Measurements were taken from 56 eyes corresponding to a proportion of patients, of which 26 were men with a mean age of ± 30 years and 30 were women with a mean age of ± 27 years. Refractive power maps were taken from the anterior cornea, having results for the steep meridian value (Ks), the flat meridian value (Kf), mean keratometric value (Km), and cornea astigmatism (Ks-Kf). The same examiner took all the data from measuring these 56 eyes. The results for each refractive map from the two topographers was taken with values for meridians (180⁰- 90⁰). Then the there was a statistical analysis comparing the values of (CSO) and (Pentacam) for those 56 eyes measured.

Results: The statistical analysis for all meridians based on the results and as far as normal corneas with astigmatism ≤ ±0.50 Dc are concerned, the Placido topography (CSO) and Scheimpflug imaging technique (Pentacam), can be considered as equivalent in terms of diagnostic credibility and accuracy for primary health care, fitting contact lenses, etc. as the correlation coefficient r did not show any important differences for both instruments. For the 90⁰ meridian the correlation coefficient was 0.79, Significance level P=0.0001 and 95% confidence interval ranges from 0.67 to 0.87. For the 180⁰ meridian the correlation coefficient was 0.48, Significance level P<0.0001 and 95% confidence interval ranges from 0.25 to 0.66.

Conclusion: In terms of diagnosis of pathology and follow-up, contact lens fitting especially for the anterior cornea surface these two instruments can work quite the same that’s why a small clinical practitioner should have at least a Placido topographer. Corneal topography is an important instrument in order to measure the shape and refractive power of the cornea. Corneal topography gives practitioners an important tool to fit contact lenses asses the power and the cornea shape and helps to evaluate complications of the contact lens in relation with the corneal surface. These instruments continue to develop techniques and software in order to investigate and evaluate corneal surfaces and the integrity of the tear film, so that they can provide better solutions for their contact lens patients.
hiPS‐Derived Astroglia Model Shows Temporal Transcriptomic Profile Related to Human Neural Development and Glia Competence Acquisition of a Maturing Astrocytic Identity
Authors: Lundin Anders , Ricchiuto Piero , Clausen Maryam , Hicks Ryan , Falk Anna , Herland Anna
Published: April 2020

Astrocyte biology has a functional and cellular diversity only observed in humans. The understanding of the regulatory network governing outer radial glia (RG), responsible for the expansion of the outer subventricular zone (oSVZ), and astrocyte cellular development remains elusive, partly since relevant human material to study these features is not readily available. A human‐induced pluripotent stem cell derived astrocytic model, NES‐Astro, has been recently developed, with high expression of astrocyte‐associated markers and high astrocyte‐relevant functionality. Here it is studied how the NES‐Astro phenotype develops during specification and its correlation to known RG and astrocyte characteristics in human brain development. It is demonstrated that directed differentiation of neurogenic long‐term neuroepithelial stem cells undergo a neurogenic‐to‐gliogenic competence preferential change, acquiring a glial fate. Temporal transcript profiles of long‐ and small RNA corroborate previously shown neurogenic restriction by glia‐associated let‐7 expression. Furthermore, NES‐Astro differentiation displays proposed mechanistic features important for the evolutionary expansion of the oSVZ together with an astroglia/astrocyte transcriptome. The NES‐Astro generation is a straight‐forward differentiation protocol from stable and expandable neuroepithelial stem cell lines derived from iPS cells. Thus, the NES‐Astro is an easy‐access cell system with high biological relevance for studies of mechanistic traits of glia and astrocyte.
Copper(I) stabilized on N,N′‐methylene bis‐acrylamide crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone: An efficient reusable catalyst for click synthesis of 1,2,3‐triazoles in water
Authors: Mathew Paulson , Sasidharan Drishya , Rakesh Nellickal Purushothaman
Published: April 2020

N,N′‐methylene bis‐acrylamide crosslinked N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NVPMBA) polymer was prepared via suspension polymerization technique and used as a polymeric support for the reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I). It was observed that NVPMBA matrix facilitated the stabilization of Cu(I) particles. Furthermore, the copper supported polymer catalyst (CuNVPMBA) was characterized by Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, transmission electron microscope (TEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectra (XPS), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, and derivative thermogravimetry analysis. SEM showed that both the polymer and CuNVPMBA exhibit a spherical morphology. TEM revealed that copper nanoparticles formed on the polymer surface have an average particle size of 5.14 nm. XPS analysis confirmed the presence of Cu(I) and Cu(II) in the ratio 1:2. The copper content in CuNVPMBA was found to be 1.25 wt%. CuNVPMBA was found to be very effective in promoting the click reaction between terminal alkynes and azides in aqueous media in the absence of ascorbate or external base under mild conditions to form 1,2,3‐triazoles in excellent yield with a copper loading as low as 0.2 mol%. The catalyst could be reused and recycled several times without significant loss of catalytic activity.
Mesh versus suture in elective repair of umbilical hernia: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Madsen L J , Oma E , Jorgensen L N , Jensen K K
Published: April 2020

Background

Mesh repair of umbilical hernia has been associated with a reduced recurrence rate compared with suture closure, but potentially at the expense of increased postoperative complications and chronic pain. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the outcomes after elective open mesh and suture repair for umbilical hernia in adults.

Methods

A literature search was conducted to identify studies presenting original data on elective open mesh and suture repair of umbilical hernia. The primary outcome was hernia recurrence. Secondary outcomes included surgical-site infection (SSI), seroma, haematoma and chronic pain. Meta-analyses were undertaken.

Results

The search resulted in 5353 hits and led to 14 studies being included (6 RCTs and 8 observational studies) describing a total of 2361 patients. Compared with suture, mesh repair was associated with a lower risk of recurrence (risk ratio (RR) 0·48, 95 per cent c.i. 0·30 to 0·77), with number needed to treat 19 (95 per cent c.i. 14 to 31). Mesh repair was associated with a higher risk of seroma (RR 2·37, 1·45 to 3·87), with number needed to harm 30 (17 to 86). There was no significant difference in the risk of SSI, haematoma or chronic pain.

Conclusion

The use of mesh in elective repair of umbilical hernia reduced the risk of recurrence compared with suture closure without altering the risk of chronic pain.
Utilizing family systems theory in financial therapy
Authors: Archuleta Kristy L. , Lutter Sonya
Published: April 2020

Financial planning practitioners and researchers recognize the connection between client behavior and financial goal attainment. However, clients must change or do something different in order to meet their stated goals. In order to do this, researchers must look at how clients think and feel about money, their beliefs about money, and how they relate to others in regards to money to motivate change. Financial therapy integrates cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and relational aspects of money to promote overall client well‐being by utilizing evidenced‐based approaches borrowed from mental health disciplines. The purpose of this paper is to introduce financial therapy through the lens of family systems theory, the foundational theory of marriage and family therapy discipline, as a way to understand why clients do what they do in regards to money and associated approaches to help clients achieve optimal well‐being.
Structure‐Activity Relationship of Phenylpyrazolones against Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Sijm Maarten , Sterk Geert Jan , Caljon Guy , Maes Louis , de Esch Iwan J. P. , Leurs Rob
Published: April 2020

Chagas disease is a neglected parasitic disease caused by the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi and currently affects around 8 million people. Previously, 2‐isopropyl‐5‐(4‐methoxy‐3‐(pyridin‐3‐yl)phenyl)‐4,4‐dimethyl‐2,4‐dihydro‐3H‐pyrazol‐3‐one (NPD‐0227) was discovered to be a sub‐micromolar inhibitor (pIC50=6.4) of T. cruzi. So far, SAR investigations of this scaffold have focused on the alkoxy substituent, the pyrazolone nitrogen substituent and the aromatic substituent of the core phenylpyrazolone. In this study, modifications of the phenyldihydropyrazolone scaffold are described. Variations were introduced by installing different substituents on the phenyl core, modifying the geminal dimethyl and installing various bio‐isosteres of the dihydropyrazolone group. The anti T. cruzi activity of NPD‐0227 could not be surpassed as the most potent compounds show pIC50 values of around 6.3. However, valuable additional SAR data for this interesting scaffold was obtained, and the data suggest that a scaffold hop is feasible as the pyrazolone moiety can be replaced by a oxazole or oxadiazole with minimal loss of activity.
Polymyalgia rheumatica in a melanoma patient 11 months after completion of immunotherapy with nivolumab
Authors: Lobo Yolanka , Good Phillip , Murphy Felicity
Published: April 2020

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has revolutionised the treatment of several cancers but can also lead to the development of immune‐related adverse effects including dermatologic, gastrointestinal, endocrine, hepatic, pulmonary and less commonly, rheumatic toxicities. Toxicities associated with ICI therapy can occur several months or even years after initiation. Case reports of polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) associated with nivolumab use are rare. We herein describe, for the first time, a case of PMR in a melanoma patient after cessation of treatment with nivolumab.

Case

An 88‐year‐old man with a history of stage IV M1c BRAF wild‐type melanoma presented with a 1 month history of arthralgias and morning stiffness, predominantly affecting the shoulders and hips, associated with fatigue and weight loss. He had undergone wide local excision of a primary malignant melanoma in the left buttock region several years prior. Immunotherapy with nivolumab was initiated following disease relapse with multiple metastases. Nivolumab was discontinued due to demonstration of complete metabolic response on serial positron emission and computed tomography scans. Symptoms appeared 11 months after completion of treatment. A diagnosis of PMR was made and treatment with oral prednisone was initiated leading to complete resolution of symptoms within 1 week. We believe that the development of PMR in our patient was likely precipitated by nivolumab.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates that PMR, although rare, may occur as an adverse effect both during and after treatment with nivolumab, leading to disabling symptoms and poor quality of life. Prompt diagnosis is crucial to enable timely commencement of corticosteroid therapy in order to avoid further impact on morbidity and mortality for cancer patients. This case highlights the importance of prompt referral to rheumatology, as well as the need for close collaboration between oncologists and rheumatologists to accurately diagnose and successfully manage these patients.
The Role of Lone‐Pair Electrons in Pt–N Interactions for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Polymer Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Ham Kahyun , Shin Dongyoon , Lee Jaeyoung
Published: April 2020

Invited for this month′s cover is the group of Jaeyoung Lee at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST). The cover image shows how the lone‐pair electrons on N atoms could play a role in both uniform nucleation of Pt nanoparticles and facile oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Strong Pt−N interaction based on π‐backdonation improves not only the activity of the ORR but also the durability in the polymer exchange membrane fuel cells. The Full Paper itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.201903403.
The practical ethics of Johnnetta Betsch Cole: The life of a Black feminist anthropologist
Authors: Williams Erica L.
Published: April 2020

In the Summer of 2018 I was honored to interview Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole at the Democratizing Knowledge Summer Institute held at Spelman College. This candid conversation is a testament to Dr. Cole's black feminist praxis – to her commitment to “living a feminist life” (Ahmed 2017). It also reveals how her myriad life experiences ‐ her praxis as a scholar, a mentor, a mother, a descendant of notable ancestors, an institution builder, and more – have shaped her practical ethics. Dr. Cole's personal and professional journeys show us what it means to enact and uphold feminist practices in kinship, mentoring, research, relationship‐building, as well as institution‐building. This interview offers an opportunity to reflect on the insights and wisdom that Dr. Cole has to offer a new generation of engaged black feminist anthropologists in a time of increasing neoliberalization and corporatization of the academy.
Features of Cattaneo‐Christov heat flux model for Stagnation point flow of a Jeffrey fluid impinging over a stretching sheet: A numerical study
Authors: Mabood Fazle , Imtiaz Maria , Hayat Tasawar
Published: April 2020

The present work focuses on a two‐dimensional steady incompressible stagnation point flow of a Jeffery fluid over a stretching sheet. The Cattaneo‐Christov heat flux model is incorporated into this study. Simulation is conducted via the Runge‐Kutta fourth‐order cum shooting method for the transformed system of nonlinear equations. The influence of the governing parameters on the dimensionless velocity, temperature, skin friction, streamlines, and isotherms is incorporated. A significant outcome of the current investigation is that an increase in the relaxation time parameter uplifts temperature; however, a gradual decrease is observed in the velocity field. Another important outcome of the present analysis is that the momentum boundary layer augments due to an increase in the Deborah number; however, a decrease is observed in the temperature. Furthermore, it is also observed that the skin friction coefficient escalates with an increase in the relaxation time parameter for the assisting flow, but a reverse trend is observed for the opposing flow.
Co‐targeting bromodomain and extra‐terminal proteins and MCL1 induces synergistic cell death in melanoma
Authors: Tseng Hsin‐Yi , Dreyer Jan , Emran Abdullah Al , Gunatilake Dilini , Pirozyan Mehdi , Cullinane Carleen , Dutton‐Regester Ken , Rizos Helen , Hayward Nicholas K. , McArthur Grant , Hersey Peter , Tiffen Jessamy , Gallagher Stuart
Published: April 2020

The treatment of melanoma has been markedly improved by the introduction of targeted therapies and checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. Unfortunately, resistance to these therapies remains a limitation. Novel anticancer therapeutics targeting the MCL1 anti‐apoptotic protein have shown impressive responses in haematological cancers but are yet to be evaluated in melanoma. To assess the sensitivity of melanoma to new MCL1 inhibitors, we measured the response of 51 melanoma cell lines to the novel MCL1 inhibitor, S63845. Additionally, we assessed combination of this drug with inhibitors of the bromodomain and extra‐terminal (BET) protein family of epigenetic readers, which we postulated would assist MCL1 inhibition by downregulating anti‐apoptotic targets regulated by NF‐kB such as BCLXL, BCL2A1 and XIAP, and by upregulating pro‐apoptotic proteins including BIM and NOXA. Only 14% of melanoma cell lines showed sensitivity to S63845, however, combination of S63845 and I‐BET151 induced highly synergistic apoptotic cell death in all melanoma lines tested and in an in vivo xenograft model. Cell death was dependent on caspases and BAX/BAK. Although the combination of drugs increased the BH3‐only protein, BIM, and downregulated anti‐apoptotic proteins such as BCL2A1, the importance of these proteins in inducing cell death varied between cell lines. ABT‐199 or ABT‐263 inhibitors against BCL2 or BCL2 and BCLXL, respectively, induced further cell death when combined with S63845 and I‐BET151. The combination of MCL1 and BET inhibition appears to be a promising therapeutic approach for metastatic melanoma, and presents opportunities to add further BCL2 family inhibitors to overcome treatment resistance.
Shear Wave Velocity Measurements of the Median Nerve in Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Yalçın Kadihan , Çakar Demir Bilge
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Chronic dialysis causes changes in the structure of median nerve. This is a risk for the development of carpal tunnel syndrome in patients on dialysis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic capacity of shear wave velocity (SWV) and the cross‐sectional area (CSA) to detect the structural changes of the median nerve in patients with end‐stage chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis 3 times per week and 26 healthy controls were included. None of the participants had any signs or symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome specified according to the criteria of the American Academy of Neurology Practice Parameters. Both patients and controls underwent sonographic and elastographic examinations of the median nerves in both hands to evaluate CSA and SWV values, and they were compared regarding these parameters.

Results

The mean CSA of the median nerve in the chronic hemodialysis group was significantly higher than that in the control group (12.74 ± 1.88 mm2 versus 8.89 ± 1.45 mm2; P < .001). The mean longitudinal and axial SWV values in the hemodialysis group (3.86 ± 0.54 m/s and 3.92 ± 0.52 m/s, respectively) were significantly higher than those in the control group (2.98 ± 0.31 m/s and 3.04 ± 0.31 m/s, respectively; P < .001).

Conclusions

Patients on chronic hemodialysis had higher mean CSA and SWV values of the median nerve compared with the healthy controls. Structural changes in the median nerve that occur in patients on chronic hemodialysis can be detected by shear‐wave sonoelastography.
Cochlear turns measurements in patients with meningitis: A histopathological study
Authors: Pauna Henrique F. , Paparella Michael M. , Cureoglu Sebahattin , Hyppolito Miguel A.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To demonstrate the cochlear turns area changes among patients with a history of meningitis, through otopatologic study.

Methods

We performed an analysis of the area of the bony cochlear turns and the cochlear lumen of the horizontal sections containing the modiolus and the area of the basal turn at the level of round window, in temporal bones obtained from patients with a history of meningitis and compared to a nondiseased control group.

Results

The mean area of the bony walls and the lumen of all cochlear turns are reduced within the meningitis group. Patients who presented a time from the diagnosis of meningitis to death longer than 30 days had a significant reduction in the cochlear turns area, as compared to the control group.

Conclusion

Future studies may further correlate audiologic outcomes, cochlear volume, and cochlear area among patients with meningitis.
Enhancement of the Molecular Ordering via the Polymerization of 3,4‐Ethylenedioxythiophene‐Based Two‐Monomer‐Connected Precursor with 4,4‐Biphenyldisulfonic Acid
Authors: Kim Wonbin , Lee Hong‐Joon , Lee Hannui , Yoo Seung Jo , Lee Jae‐Suk
Published: April 2020

The polymerization of 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT)‐based two‐monomer‐connected precursors in various solvent systems leads to improved crystallinity, compared to poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) synthesized from traditional route. The P(EDOT:BPDSA:EDOT) is ordered by using 4,4‐biphenyldisulfonic acid (BPDSA) that is a connector and dopant linking EDOT monomers. The crystallinity, measured from X‐ray diffraction studies, is increased when using short chain or hydrophobic solvents. The crystallinity of P(EDOT:BPDSA:EDOT) significantly increases up to 45.0% compared to polymer with other sulfonic acids, bifunctional 1,2‐ethanesulfonic acid, and monofunctional methanesulfonic acid (MSA). The crystal structure is also confirmed from high‐voltage electron microscope. From these studies, it is confirmed that P(EDOT:BPDSA:EDOT) has an orthorhombic structure, which has the unit cell lattice parameters of a = 1.44 nm, b = 0.98 nm, and c = 1.18 nm from fast Fourier transform pattern images. The electrical conductivity is increased about four times with BPDSA (0.21 S cm−1) when compared using MSA (0.06 S cm−1).
Biobased Amphiphilic Block Copolymers by RAFT‐Mediated PISA in Green Solvent
Authors: Coumes Fanny , Balarezo Mauricio , Rieger Jutta , Stoffelbach François
Published: April 2020

Biobased amphiphilic diblock copolymers are prepared thanks to the combination of reversible addition–fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization and polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) in an eco‐friendly solvent mixture. First, the formation of a poly(acrylic acid) macroRAFT agent (PAA‐TTC) is performed in water at 70 °C. Then, in a series of experiments, the PAA‐TTC macroRAFT agent is used directly, without purification, as both chain transfer agent and stabilizing agent in the RAFT‐PISA of menthyl acrylate (MnA) in dispersion in an ethanol/water mixture. The polymerizations of MnA are fast with high final conversions and well‐controlled amphiphilic diblock copolymers are synthesized. Stable, sub‐micrometric spherical particles composed of the diblock copolymers are formed. The influence of the monomer concentration and the length of the solvophobic block on the diameter of the self‐assemblies is studied by means of dynamic light scattering and cryogenic transmission electron‐microscopy.
Exploring the Relationship between FEV1 Loss and Recovery and Aminoglycoside Pharmacokinetics in Adult Patients with Cystic Fibrosis: Implications for Clinical Dosing Strategies
Authors: Hoff Brian M. , Scheetz Marc H. , Jain Manu , Cullina Joanne F. , Rhodes Nathaniel J.
Published: April 2020

Objective

Systemic aminoglycosides remain a cornerstone of treatment for cystic fibrosis (CF) pulmonary exacerbations (PEx); however, the impact of aminoglycoside pharmacokinetics (PK) on outcomes is not well defined in adult CF patients. Our objective was to assess the impact of increasing PK exposures on the clinical outcomes of PEx treatment in adult CF patients receiving high‐dose and standard‐dose extended‐interval aminoglycosides.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of adult CF patients treated with an intravenous aminoglycoside for a PEx. Serum amikacin, gentamicin, and tobramycin levels and forced expiratory volume over 1 second (FEV1) data were used to evaluate exposure‐response relationships. PK parameters were estimated using a Bayesian approach to obtain area under the curve (AUC)0–24 hr, maximum concentration (Cmax0–24 hr), and minimum concentration (Cmin0–24 hr) estimates. The primary efficacy end point was a 90% recovery of baseline FEV1 by 30 days posttreatment. Toxicity included signs or symptoms of ototoxicity, vestibular toxicity, or renal toxicity. Multivariate linear mixed‐effects models of FEV1 were used for exposure‐response analysis.

Results

The study included 51 patients who contributed 188 FEV1 observations. There were 3.0 ± 1.7 (mean ± SD) aminoglycoside concentrations per patient. The mean AUC0–24 hr, Cmax0–24 hr, and Cmin0–24 hr across all agents and patients were 156 ± 96 mg*hr/L, 29.9 ± 12.7 mg/L, and 0.35 ± 0.66 mg/L, respectively. A total of 42 amikacin‐, gentamicin‐, or tobramycin‐treated patients contributed to the efficacy analysis, of whom 85.7% experienced recovery posttreatment. Of the 51 included patients, 6 (11.8%) experienced seven toxicity events. In exploratory exposure‐response analyses, neither AUC0–24 hr nor Cmax0–24 hr was associated with FEV1 values after adjusting for clinical covariates and baseline FEV1.

Conclusions

Increasing aminoglycoside AUC0–24 hr and Cmax0–24 hr were not associated with FEV1 during PEx treatment. Although individualizing aminoglycoside dosing in adult CF patients is necessary to minimize toxicity risk, more work is needed to define optimally safe and effective dosing strategies for this population.
An open‐source system for vision‐based micro‐aerial vehicle mapping, planning, and flight in cluttered environments
Authors: Oleynikova Helen , Lanegger Christian , Taylor Zachary , Pantic Michael , Millane Alexander , Siegwart Roland , Nieto Juan
Published: April 2020

We present an open‐source system for Micro‐Aerial Vehicle (MAV) autonomous navigation from vision‐based sensing. Our system focuses on dense mapping, safe local planning, and global trajectory generation, especially when using narrow field‐of‐view sensors in very cluttered environments. In addition, details about other necessary parts of the system and special considerations for applications in real‐world scenarios are presented. We focus our experiments on evaluating global planning, path smoothing, and local planning methods on real maps made on MAVs in realistic search‐and‐rescue and industrial inspection scenarios. We also perform thousands of simulations in cluttered synthetic environments, and finally validate the complete system in real‐world experiments.
Designing the Future of Children’s Mental Health Services
Authors: Lyon Aaron R. , Dopp Alex R. , Brewer Stephanie K. , Kientz Julie A. , Munson Sean A.
Published: April 2020

Advancements in evidence-based psychosocial interventions, digital technologies, and implementation strategies (i.e., health services research products) for youth mental health services have yet to yield significant improvement in public health outcomes. Achieving such impact will require that these research products are easy to use, useful, and contextually appropriate. This paper describes how human-centered design (HCD), an approach that aligns product development with the needs of the people and settings that use those products, can be leveraged to improve youth mental health services. We articulate how HCD can advance accessibility, effectiveness, and equity, with specific consideration of unique aspects of youth mental health services.
Inanspruchnahme und wahrgenommene Barrieren des Gesundheitswesens bei Menschen mit Behinderung in Deutschland: Ergebnisse des GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS-Survey
Authors: Wetzel Lorena Denise , Rathmann Katharina
Published: April 2020

Hintergrund

Menschen mit Behinderung sind in der gesundheitlichen Versorgung benachteiligt. Eine bedarfsgerechte Gesundheitsversorgung verlangt einen gleichberechtigten Zugang zum Gesundheitswesen ohne Barrieren. Erstmals werden Inanspruchnahme und wahrgenommene Barrieren des Gesundheitswesens bei Menschen mit und ohne Behinderung, differenziert nach dem Grad der Behinderung (GdB) mittels repräsentativer Daten für Deutschland ausgewertet.

Fragestellung

Gibt es Unterschiede in der Inanspruchnahme und den wahrgenommenen Barrieren des Gesundheitswesens von Menschen mit im Vergleich zu Menschen ohne Behinderung?

Material und Methode

Datenbasis bildet der Survey „Gesundheit in Deutschland Aktuell 2014/2015“. Die Stichprobe umfasst 23.481 Personen mit und ohne Behinderung, wovon 1295 Personen (5,5 %) einen GdB <50 und 2395 Personen (10,2 %) einen GdB ≥50 aufweisen. Uni-, bi- und multivariate Analysen wurden für die abhängigen Variablen Besuch von Haus- und Fachärzt*innen, ambulante und stationäre Krankenhausaufenthalte und wahrgenommene Barrieren (u. a. Wartezeit auf einen Termin, Entfernung, Nicht-Bezahlbarkeit von Untersuchungen) vorgenommen.

Ergebnisse

Menschen mit Behinderung haben höhere Chancen für eine Inanspruchnahme des Gesundheitswesens als Menschen ohne Behinderung. Dabei zeigt sich ein behinderungsspezifischer Gradient nach dem GdB. Menschen mit Behinderung nehmen außerdem häufiger Barrieren im Gesundheitswesen wahr als Menschen ohne Behinderung z. B. für Untersuchungsverzögerungen aufgrund einer weiten Entfernung und weil sie sich ärztliche Untersuchungen nicht leisten können.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Ergebnisse verdeutlichen den in der Behindertenrechtskonvention der Vereinten Nationen geforderten Abbau von Barrieren im Gesundheitswesen für Menschen mit Behinderung. Studien sind aufgefordert zielgruppenadäquate Bedarfe und Barrieren in der Gesundheitsversorgung, differenziert nach dem GdB, zu erfassen.
A network tool to analyse and improve robustness of system architectures
Authors: Paparistodimou Giota , Duffy Alex , Whitfield Robert Ian , Knight Philip , Robb Malcolm
Published: April 2020

The architecture of a system is decided at the initial stage of the design. However, the robustness of the system is not usually assessed in detail during the initial stages, and the exploration of alternative system architectures is limited due to the influence of previous designs and opinions. This article presents a novel network generator that enables the analysis of the robustness of alternative system architectures in the initial stages of design. The generator is proposed as a network tool for system architectures dictated by their configuration of source and sink components structured in a way to deliver a particular functionality. Its parameters allow exploration with theoretical patterns to define the main structure and hub structure, vary the number, size, and connectivity of hub components, define source and sink components and directionality at the hub level and adapt a redundancy threshold criterion. The methodology in this article assesses the system architecture patterns through robustness and modularity network based metrics and methods. Two naval distributed engineering system architectures are examined as the basis of reference for the simulated networks. The generator provides the capacity to create alternative complex system architecture options with identifiable patterns and key features, aiding in a broader explorative and analytical, in-depth, time and cost-efficient initial design process.
Culture and domestic violence amongst ever-married women in Malawi: an analysis of emotional, sexual, less-severe physical and severe physical violence
Authors: Chikhungu Lana Clara , Bradley Tamsin , Jamali Monica , Mubaiwa Ottis
Published: April 2020

Nearly 42% of ever-married women in Malawi have experienced some form of physical, sexual or emotional violence perpetrated by their current or most recent spouse – higher than the global estimate of 35%. This study used national-level data for ever-married women aged 15–49 years from the 2015 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey to explore the association between cultural factors and the likelihood of women experiencing sexual, physical and emotional violence after controlling for socioeconomic factors using multilevel logistic regression modelling. Key cultural factors found to be associated with violence against ever-married women in Malawi were type of marriage (polygynous or monogamous), age at marriage, religion and ethnicity. Husband's consumption of alcohol also emerged as a very important factor in violence against married women. Interventions to tackle violence against married women in Malawi should aim at promoting monogamous marriages and discouraging polygynous marriages, and address the culture of heavy alcohol consumption amongst husbands. Future studies could explore further if there are key lessons that families can learn from Muslim families and across ethnic groups.