bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Diets with Inclusion of Hydrothermal, Phytase, and Organic Acid Pretreated Canola Meal on Nutrient Digestibility in Swine
Authors: Darambazar Enkhjargal , Damiran Daalkhaijav , Beaulieu Denise
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary inclusion of hydrothermal, phytase, and organic acid pretreated canola meal (CM) on nutrient digestibility in swine. A basal diet barley, wheat, and CM based, was formulated. Four diets containing 30% hydrothermal pretreated CM with 50% moisture and 40°C, phytase (1000 FTU/kg activity), and either citric acid (CA), malic acid (MA), or lactic acid (LA), and a control containing pretreated CM without phytase or organic acid were fed to 12 ileal-cannulated finisher pigs (initial average BW 105.3 ± 2.7 kg) in a completely randomized design over two periods of 9 days per period. Nutrient composition and phytate content of the diets, ileal digesta, and feces were analyzed and apparent ileal and total tract digestibilities were determined. The inclusion of hydrothermal, phytase, and CA or MA pretreated CM in the diet decreased phytate P (by up to 38.6%) (p < 0.05), consequently increasing available P (by up to 55.6%). Apparent ileal digestibility (AID) was improved for P by 19.9 ‒ 35.1% units and apparent total tract digestibility of DM by 10.3 ‒ 14.8% units, of protein by 6.6 ‒ 12.1% units, and of gross energy by 12 ‒ 17% units across the treatments (p < 0.05), while AID of CP for MA treatment was up by 4.7% units (p < 0.05) relative to the control, indicating improved diet utilization, thus reduced excretion to the environment.
The Ethics of Maximizing or Satisficing
Authors: Soltwisch Brandon William , Brannon Daniel C. , Iyer Vish ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2020

This study explores the relationship between decision-making styles and moral judgements to understand how maximizers and satisficers differ in their analysis of ethical dilemmas. It also explores the linkage between decision-making styles and the moral reasoning perspectives of absolutism and relativism, investigating if ethical ideologies play a mediating role in how maximizers and satisficers evaluate ethical situations. In order to test these relationships, data is collected from a sample of 187 upper level business students. Results indicate that maximizers are significantly more likely than satisficers to judge ethically ambiguous actions as immoral. Underlying this effect, maximizers (vs. satisficers) have a more idealistic ethical ideology.
The Practice of Social Justice
Authors: Purcaro Arthur ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: February 2020

This paper presents the “signs of the times” methodology and proposes its use as an appropriate pedagogical tool for contemporary practical theology, particularly in the area of social justice. The author presents three examples of the application of the method by students in theological formation for the Augustinian Order, and also provides an explanation of the method’s suitability for other Catholic traditions and Christian denominations.
Nursing Diagnoses in Heart Failure: Integrative Review
Authors: Sardinha Daniele Melo , Neiva Assis Leila de Massena e , Amoedo Alexsandro Soares , Gonçalves Katia Regina de Oliveira , Melo Renato Hugo Dias , Lima Cassia Andreia Silva , Ferreira Jessica da Silva , Belém Jaqueline Cristina da Silva , Martin Jaqueline Dantas Neres , Costa Gabriel Fazzi , Gualdez Aurenice Monteiro Pinto , Simor Alziney
Published: February 2020

Heart Failure is characterized by a complex clinical syndrome in which the myocardium has an inability to adequately pump blood to meet tissue metabolic needs, or can do so only at high filling pressures. Thus, the aim of this study is to describe the Nursing Diagnostics in patients with Cardiac Failure described in the scientific literature. It is a descriptive, exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, in the modality Integrative Literature Review. In Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences and PubMed databases, including original articles, case studies and systematic review, in Portuguese, English and Spanish, published from 2014. Tabulation was used for data collection and analysis. Seven articles were searched and the following nursing diagnoses were highlighted: Harmful Comfort; Acute Pain; Disposition to Improve Comfort; Decreased Cardiac Output; Excessive Liquid Volume; Ineffective Respiratory Pattern; Intolerance to Activity; Fatigue; Anxiety; Sexual Dysfunction; Disabled Knowledge; Ineffective Cardiopulmonary Tissue Perfusion. It was concluded that heart failure is a complex pathology and that the use of the systematization of nursing care only enhances the quality of service and benefits the patient, because from the nursing diagnostcs it is possible to prescribe evidence-based interventions.
Stuck Mitral Valve with Thromboembolic Stroke Managed with Anticoagulation and Mechanical Thrombectomy
Authors: Jain Akshat , Singh Gurkirat , Kaushik Aniruddha , Singla Rahul , Bansal Narendra Omprakash
Published: February 2020

Heart valve replacements are commonly performed these days in India with mitral valve replacement being most common of all. Thromboemboli are a major source of morbidity in patients with prosthetic heart valves. The incidence of clinically recognizable events ranges from 0.6% to 2.3% per patient-year. Mechanical valve thrombosis is another common complication, incidence of which is estimated at 0.3% to 1.3% per patient-year in developed countries, but as high as 6% per patient-year in developing countries. Management of either complication in these patients requires adequate knowledge and clinical experience. We here describe a rare case of a patient who came to us with both complication of stuck mitral valve prosthesis and embolic stroke simultaneously. We here discuss the approach, monitoring and management of these patients, the clinical difficulties we faced in our case, immediate and short term prognosis of our patient.
Effect of Leaf Extract of Senna alata on Biochemical Indices of Wistar Rats Infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei
Authors: A. Kugama M. , Tese T. , Sabo H. , Andrew T. , A. Onaolapo Y. , G. Allen O. , Agbo A. , W. Danjuma D. , M. Usman A. , M. Umar L. , J. Baji P.
Published: February 2020

This study was aimed at determining the effect of leaves of Senna alata extract on biochemical indices of Wistar rats infected with Trypanosoma brucei brucei. Phytochemical screening revealed the absence of steroids in all extracts, absence of saponins in chloroform extracts and the presence of free anthraquinones only in chloroform extract. Post-infection treatment of animals stirred the emergence of parasitaemia by Day 3. Only animals receiving 200 mg/kg b.wt. of chloroform extract survived by day 16. A significant (P<0.05) decrease in ALT for groups receiving methanol (400 mg/kg b.wt.), chloroform and aqueous extracts and significant (P<0.05) increase in unconjugated bilirubin in the group receiving methanol extract (200 mg/kg b.wt.) compared to infected not treated rats. Significant (P<0.05) decrease in potassium concentration in groups receiving methanol and chloroform, and a significant (P<0.05) increase in sodium concentration in the group receiving 400 mg/kg b.wt. of aqueous extract compared to the infected not treated rats. These results thereby demonstrate the ameliorative potential of Senna alata leaves against T. brucei brucei.
Development of Anadenanthera colubrina Seedlings Subjected to Different Doses of Coconut Powder and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal for Rehabilitation of Mining Areas
Authors: Fernandes Milton Marques , Pereira Ronaldo Fernandes , Silva Fernanda Maria Matos da , Filho Renison Neponuceno de Araujo , Lima Dayane de Souza , Piscoya Victor Casimiro , Filho Mocyr Cunha
Published: February 2020

The objective of this work was to evaluate the development of angico [Anadenanthera colubrina (Vell.) Brenan] seedlings produced with different doses of coconut powder and inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in nursery and mining degraded area in the state of Sergipe (Brazil). The experimental design was in randomized blocks, with the following proportions of mineral substrate and coconut powder, with and without AMF. Angico growth was evaluated in nursery after 150 days, and height and diameter were evaluated. Later the seedlings were planted in a degraded area by sand and gravel mining and after 120 days of planting the height, diameter and survival rate were measured. In the nursery phase, the addition of coconut powder promoted a reduction in height and diameter of angico seedlings. Inoculation with AMF significantly increased the height and diameter of Anadenanthera colubrina seedlings in the nursery. However, the field phase results show that the addition of coconut powder to the substrate promotes better development in height and diameter of Anadenanthera colubrina seedlings in the mining degraded area. The conjugation of a low proportion of coconut powder with the inoculation of AMF on Anadenanthera colubrina seedlings resulted in higher survival in the planting of degraded area by mining.
Some Correlation Coefficients of Maize under Soil-application of Pendimethalin in Mubi and Gombe Ecologies of Nigeria
Authors: J. Dantata I. , A. Shittu E. , J. Philip H. , Sani M.
Published: February 2020

Field experiment was carried out during the wet season of 2012 at the Teaching and Research Farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Adamawa State University, Mubi (Lat.10° 15II N and Long.13° 16II E, altitude of 696 m above sea level) and a Community based Demonstration Farm in Gombe (Lat.11° 30” N and Long.10° 20” E, altitude of 340 m above sea level). Both locations were situated in the Northern Guinea Savanna agro-ecological zone of Nigeria. The study was carried out to determine the level of correlation between weed parameters, growth and yield attributes of maize as affected by pendimethalin application. Treatments which consisted of six different rates of pendimethalin (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0kg a.i.ha-1) + two control checks (weed free and weedy check) were placed in the main plots as main treatment while maize cultivar SAMMAZ 17 was placed in the sub-plots as sub-treatments in a split plot design and replicated three times. Pendimethalin was pre-emergence- applied a day after sowing (DAS). Weed free check plots (control) were kept weed free by regular weeding. Similarly, all agronomic practices were adequately carried out except those under study. Data collected on weed cover score (WCS), weed fresh weight (WFW), weed dry weight (WDW), days to 50% emergence (D50E), crop injury score (CIS), crop vigour score (CVS), establishment count (EC), plant height (PH), leaf area index (LAI), crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR), days to 50% tasseling (D50T), 1000 grain weights (1GWTs) and grain yield (GY) were analyzed using Minitab Version 11 Statistical Software. Results revealed that WCS was significantly higher and strongly correlated with WFW, WDW but was strong and negatively associated with GY of maize in both Mubi and Gombe. D50E, D50T and LAI were positive but contributed weakly to the GY of maize in Mubi. Similarly, D50E, D50T, PH and LAI had same pattern of behavior as the former in Gombe. EC was negative and also contributed weakly to the grain yield of maize in both locations. PH, CVS, CGR, 1GWTs were positive and strongly associated with GY of maize in Mubi. The same trend was also observed for all parameters except PH which though positive it was weakly associated to the final GY of maize in Gombe. Pendimethalin did not posed any significant effect on the post- physico-chemical properties of the soils at the two experimental sites, except in soil-pH, organic carbon, available phosphorus, total nitrogen, magnesium, potassium and sodium in Mubi and available phosphorus, total nitrogen, Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium in Gombe. These soil properties were significantly influenced by rates of soil applied Pendimethalin compared to the control checks.
The Status of Insect Pests Prevailing in Stored Wheat Grain under Traditional Storages of Cheha District of Gurage Zone of South Central Ethiopia
Authors: Wubetu Tsehaynew , Hiruy Berhanu
Published: February 2020

Aim: To assess the status of the insect pests of stored wheat grains in Cheha destrict of Gurage Zone of Southern Ethiopia.

Study Design: Peasant associations were selected purposefully based on intensity of wheat production, such that those peasant association growing wheat predominantly were selected for the survey, while villages, representative farmers and their storage systems were selected randomly using a nested design.

Place and Duration of Study: Survey was conducted between 1, July to 30, December 2019 with the interval of one month in major wheat growing peasant associations of Cheha district of south central Ethiopia.

Methodology: The assessment on abundance was made from of half kilogram of wheat grain sample taken from 135 randomly selected farmer’s storages of three peasant associations using taxonomic keys of books related to stored product insects.

Results: Eight major species of insect pests consisting of four primary pests and four secondary pests belonging to five families with in two insect orders were documented. Of these pests recorded, Sitophilus oryzae, Sitophilus zeamais, Sitotroga cereallella, Tribolium castaneum and Tribolium confusum, respectively were the most prevalent and frequently occurring as they appeared between 12.74 and 33.78 individuals per 100 g of grain and as they occurred in the range between 77.78 and 92.26% per 100 g of sample wheat grain collected from the survey sites, respectively. These were followed by Cryptolestes ferrugineus, Cryptolestes pusillus and Rhyzopertha dominica which occurred between 7.26 and 10.74 individuals per 100 g of grain and in ranges between 51.85 and 66.67% per 100 g of sample wheat grain collected.

Conclusion: The traditional methods and practices used by farmers were inefficient for sufficient wheat grains protection against insect pests in storages; this implies for the urgent need for designing management strategies for more effective and sustainable methods of control.
The Ignition Behavior of a Ternary Mg–Sr–Ca Alloy
Authors: Villegas-Armenta Luis Angel , Pekguleryuz Mihriban Ozden
Published: February 2020

In this work, a Mg–Sr–Ca alloy is evaluated for ignition resistance. The simultaneous use of Sr and Ca results in an ignition temperature increase of ≈110 °C compared to pure Mg. This is attributed to the formation of a compact oxide scale due to the modification of the native MgO scale. A new parameter, the effective Pilling–Bedworth ratio (EPBR), which is the molar volume ratio between the oxide formed and the substrate alloy, is developed. The EPBR of the composite oxide forming on the Mg–Ca–Sr alloy is found to be greater than 1, resulting in a protective scale due to the increased volume occupied by the oxide at the surface. In the solid state, the oxide scale is rich in CaO, with the SrO contribution being minimal. In the liquid state, SrO contribution increases.
Aryldiazenyl Radicals from Arylazo Sulfones: Visible Light‐Driven Diazenylation of Enol Silyl Ethers
Authors: Othman Abdulla Havall , Scaringi Simone , Amin Ahmed A. , Mella Mariella , Protti Stefano , Fagnoni Maurizio
Published: February 2020

A versatile protocol for the diazenylation of enol silyl ethers under visible light irradiation is presented herein. The reaction is based on the underused reaction of a nitrogen‐based radical (the diazenyl radical) with an enol silyl ether. Arylazo sulfones were used as photoactivatable precursors of these diazenyl radicals. The resulting azaderivatives are potentially bioactive compounds as well as starting materials for the synthesis of N‐containing heterocycles.

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A Thermomorphic Polyethylene‐Supported Imidazolium Salt for the Fixation of CO2 into Cyclic Carbonates
Authors: Grollier Kevin , Vu Nam Duc , Onida Killian , Akhdar Ayman , Norsic Sébastien , D'Agosto Franck , Boisson Christophe , Duguet Nicolas
Published: February 2020

An imidazolium catalyst supported on thermomorphic polyethylene (PE) was prepared from 1‐methylimidazole and polyethylene iodide (PE−I). The catalyst was characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, SEC and MALDI‐ToF mass spectrometry. Its catalytic activity was evaluated in the ring‐opening of epoxides with carbon dioxide to give cyclic carbonates under solvent‐free conditions. The catalyst proved to be active at low catalyst loading (down to 0.1 mol%) and allows the reaction to occur at low CO2 pressure (1–5 bar) and moderate temperature (100 °C). A range of terminal and internal epoxides was converted to the corresponding cyclic carbonates with high yields and selectivities. The recyclability of the catalyst was studied and no significant loss of activity was observed after 5 runs.

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Achieving 21% External Quantum Efficiency for Nondoped Solution‐Processed Sky‐Blue Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence OLEDs by Means of Multi‐(Donor/Acceptor) Emitter with Through‐Space/‐Bond Charge Transfer
Authors: Zheng Xujun , Huang Rongjuan , Zhong Cheng , Xie Guohua , Ning Weimin , Huang Manli , Ni Fan , Dias Fernando B. , Yang Chuluo
Published: February 2020

Although numerous thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) have been demonstrated, efficient blue or even sky‐blue TADF‐based nondoped solution‐processed devices are still very rare. Herein, through‐space charge transfer (TSCT) and through‐bond charge transfer (TBCT) effects are skillfully incorporated, as well as the multi‐(donor/acceptor) characteristic, into one molecule. The former allows this material to show small singlet–triplet energy splitting (ΔEST) and a high transition dipole moment. The latter, on the one hand, further lights up multichannel reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) to increase triplet exciton utilization via degenerating molecular orbitals. On the other hand, the nature of the molecular twisted structure effectively suppresses intermolecular packing to obtain high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) in neat flims. Consequently, using this design strategy, T‐CNDF‐T‐tCz containing three donor and three acceptor units, successfully realizes a small ΔEST (≈0.03 eV) and a high PLQY (≈0.76) at the same time; hence the nondoped solution‐processed sky‐blue TADF‐OLED displays record‐breaking efficiency among the solution process‐based nondoped sky‐blue OLEDs, with high brightness over 5200 cd m−2 and external quantum efficiency up to 21.0%.
Evidence‐based Medicine Simulation: A Novel and Practice‐relevant Approach to Teaching Real‐time Literature Searching to Emergency Medicine Residents
Authors: Colmers‐Gray Isabelle N. , Ha David J. , Tan Maria C. , Dong Sandy L.
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Evidence‐based medicine (EBM) and literature searching skills are competencies within the emergency medicine (EM) residency curriculum. Previously in our residency program, a librarian taught literature searching instruction, including a classroom‐based overview of search engines. Learners reported low engagement and poor retention. To improve engagement, interest, and skill retention, we used a novel approach: simulation to teach real‐time literature searching.

Methods

Based on a needs assessment of our EM residents, we created a literature searching workshop using a flipped classroom approach and high‐fidelity simulation. Goals of the session were to be interactive, engaging, and practice‐relevant. With a librarian, we developed a brief list of EM‐relevant databases, including tips for searching and links to sites/apps. Prereadings also covered the hierarchy of evidence and formulating a good clinical (PICO) question. Residents (12 junior residents) participated in a high‐fidelity simulation involving a stable patient whose management required a literature search to inform decisions. Feedback was collected on the simulation experience.

Results

Residents received the list of EM‐relevant databases 7 days prior and were instructed to set up and test the resources on their smartphones. The day of the session, one resident volunteered to lead the simulation; all residents participated in the search on their smart phones. Collectively, it took 4.5 minutes to find a study that adequately addressed the clinical question and to manage the patient accordingly. Feedback on the simulation was positive. Students found it “very real and practical” and “immediately institutable into practice.” It helped residents learn to efficiently and effectively search the literature while managing a stable patient.

Conclusion

A flipped‐classroom simulation‐based teaching strategy made learning literature searching more interesting, engaging, and applicable to EM practice. Based on popular demand, we will continue to use this teaching method.
Unveiling the binding interaction of zinc (II) complexes of homologous Schiff‐base ligands on the surface of BSA protein: A combined experimental and theoretical approach
Authors: Chowdhury Tania , Bera Kaushik , Samanta Debabrata , Dolui Sandip , Maity Suvendu , Maiti Nakul C. , Ghosh Prasanta Kumar , Das Debasis
Published: February 2020

Four new zinc (II) complexes [Zn (HL1H)Br2] (1), [Zn (HL1H)Cl2] (2), [Zn2(HL2)Br3] (3), and [Zn (HL2)Cl] (4) have been synthesized by adopting template synthetic strategy and utilizing two homologous Schiff base ligands (H2L1 = 4‐bromo‐2‐{[2‐(2‐hydroxyethylamino)‐ethylimino]‐methyl}‐6‐methoxyphenol, H2L2 = 4‐bromo‐2‐{[3‐(2‐hydroxyethylamino)propylimino]methyl}‐6‐methoxyphenol), differing in one ‐CH2‐ unit in the ligating backbone, by adopting template synthetic strategy. All the complexes have been characterized by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis as well as by other routine physicochemical techniques. Ligand mediated structural variations have been observed and rationalized by density functional theoretical (DFT) calculations. Interaction of the complexes 1–4 with Bovine Serum Albumin protein (BSA) has been studied by different spectroscopic techniques. A complete thermodynamic profile (ΔHo, ΔSo and ΔGo) was evaluated initially from the change in absorption and fluorescence spectra upon addition of BSA to the complexes. Appreciable binding constant values in the range ~ 0.94–4.51 × 104 M−1 indicate efficient binding tendency of the complexes to BSA with the sequence 1 ≅ 2 > 3 ≅ 4. Circular dichroism (CD), isothermal calorimetric titration experiments, molecular docking and molecular dynamics have been performed to gain deep insight into the binding regions of complex 1 to BSA. Experimental evidences suggest an interaction of zinc complexes at the surface of BSA protein and this particular binding has been exploited to determine unknown concentration of BSA protein. For this purpose complex 1 was explored as a BSA protein quantification tool.
Preparation and characterization study on maleic acid cross‐linked poly(vinyl alcohol)/chitin/nanocellulose composites
Authors: Mok Chun Fah , Ching Yern Chee , Abu Osman Noor Azuan , Muhamad Farina , Mohd Junaidi Mohd Usman , Choo Jia H.
Published: February 2020

In the quest on improving composite formulations for environmental sustainability, maleic acid (MA) cross‐linked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)‐α‐chitin composites reinforced by oil palm empty fruit bunch fibers (OPEFB)‐derived nanocellulose crystals (NCC) had been successfully prepared. Based on the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis, it was proven that molecular interactions of the cross‐linker to the polymeric networks was through conjugated ester linkage. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed that the influence of MA was minimal toward crystallization in the PVA/chitin/NCC composite. Maximum tensile strength, elongation at break and Young's modulus of the respective PVA/chitin/NCC composites were achieved at different content of MA, dependent on the PVA/chitin mass ratio. Among all compositions, a maximum Young's modulus was achieved at 30 wt% MA loading in PVA/chitin‐30/NCC, amounting to 2,413.81 ± 167.36 MPa. Moreover, the mechanical properties and selected physicochemical properties (swelling, gel content, and contact angle) of the PVA/chitin/NCC composites could be tailored by varying the chitin content (10–30 wt%) and MA content (10–50 wt% based on total mass of composite). In brief, this chemically cross‐linked PVA‐based biocomposites formulated with sustainable resources exhibited tunable physicochemical and mechanical properties.
Climate variability and trends in the reproductive habitat of the critically endangered hooded grebe
Authors: Lancelotti Julio L. , Pessacg Natalia L. , Roesler Ignacio C. , Pascual Miguel A.
Published: February 2020

The population of the critically endangered hooded grebe (Podiceps gallardoi) has decreased drastically during recent decades. The effects of climate change on their reproductive area (Southern Patagonia) have been proposed as one of the potential causes of their critical situation. However, there is much uncertainty about climate variability and climate trends at local scales in Patagonia, and their effects on the hooded grebe habitat.

Variability and trends in temperature, precipitation, and wind from 1960 to 2016 in one of the most important reproductive areas of hooded grebe – the Lake Strobel plateau – were analysed. A Landsat satellite image series (1973–2016) was used to evaluate changes in lake area in the region.

Generalized linear models were used to analyse the relationship between the variation in lake area and climatic variables, including the Antarctic Oscillation Mode (AAO) index, which is the most important year to year pattern in climate variability at high latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere.

High inter‐annual variability and increasing coefficients of variation in precipitation and wind were found, as well as a significant positive trend in temperature. Total lake area, as well as the area specifically used by hooded grebe to reproduce, decreased significantly over time, with high inter‐annual variability. Variation in lake area was significantly correlated with variation in precipitation, and with the AAO index.

The loss of reproductive habitat may force the hooded grebe to use sub‐optimal environments, such as lakes with lower food supply, lower macrophyte cover, and less protection from wind – a potential major handicap for this declining species.

Information on lake variation in response to climatic variability could be used to guide hooded grebe conservation strategies, directing more resources and special efforts to those reproductive lakes that are more resilient to the effects of climate fluctuations.
A Hands‐On Organ‐Slicing Activity to Teach the Cross‐Sectional Anatomy
Authors: Li Lei , Li Lin , Zuo Yizhi
Published: February 2020

The presentation of pre‐sliced specimens is a frequently used method in the laboratory teaching of cross‐sectional anatomy. In the present study, a new teaching method based on a hands‐on slicing activity was introduced into the teaching of brain, heart, and liver cross‐sectional anatomy. A randomized, controlled trial was performed. A total of 182 third‐year medical students were randomized into a control group taught with the prosection mode (pre‐sliced organ viewing) and an experimental group taught with the dissection mode (hands‐on organ slicing). These teaching methods were assessed by testing the students' knowledge of cross‐sectional specimens and cross‐sectional radiological images, and analyzing students' feedback. Using a specimen test on three organs (brain, heart, and liver), significant differences were observed in the mean scores of the control and experimental groups: for brain 59.6% (±14.2) vs. 70.1% (±15.5), (P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.17); for heart: 57.6% (±12.5) vs. 75.6% (±15.3), (P < 0.001, d = 0.30); and for liver: 60.4% (±14.5) vs. 81.7% (±14.2), (P < 0.001, d = 0.46). In a cross‐sectional radiological image test, better performance was also found in the experimental group (P < 0.001). The mean scores of the control vs. experimental groups were as follows: for brain imaging 63.9% (±15.1) vs. 71.1% (±16.1); for heart imaging 64.7% (±14.5) vs. 75.2% (±15.5); and for liver imaging 61.1% (±15.5) vs. 81.2% (±14.6), respectively. The effect sizes (Cohen's d) were 0.05, 0.23, and 0.52, respectively. Students in the lower tertile benefited the most from the slicing experiences. Students' feedback was generally positive. Hands‐on slicing activity can increase the effectiveness of anatomy teaching and increase students' ability to interpret radiological images.
Synthetic sRNA‐Based Engineering of Escherichia coli for Enhanced Production of Full‐Length Immunoglobulin G
Authors: Zhang Jinhua , Zhao Yanshu , Cao Yingxiu , Yu Zhenpeng , Wang Guoping , Li Yiqun , Ye Xiaoqiong , Li Congfa , Lin Xue , Song Hao
Published: February 2020

Production of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) receives considerable attention in the pharmaceutical industry. There has been an increasing interest in the expression of mAbs in Escherichia coli for analytical and therapeutic applications in recent years. Here, a modular synthetic biology approach is developed to rationally engineer E. coli by designing three functional modules to facilitate high‐titer production of immunoglobulin G (IgG). First, a bicistronic expression system is constructed and the expression of the key genes in the pyruvate metabolism is tuned by the technologies of synthetic sRNA translational repression and gene overexpression, thus enhancing the cellular material and energy metabolism of E. coli for IgG biosynthesis (module 1). Second, to prevent the IgG biodegradation by proteases, the expression of a number of key proteases is identified and inhibited via synthetic sRNAs (module 2). Third, molecular chaperones are co‐expressed to promote the secretion and folding of IgG (module 3). Synergistic integration of the three modules into the resulting recombinant E. coli results in a yield of the full‐length IgG ≈150 mg L−1 in a 5L fed‐batch bioreactor. The modular synthetic biology approach could be of general use in the production of recombinant mAbs.
Next‐Generation Microbial Workhorses: Comparative Genomic Analysis of Fast‐Growing Vibrio Strains Reveals Their Biotechnological Potential
Authors: Peng Yuan , Han Xiao , Xu Ping , Tao Fei
Published: February 2020

Vibrio is a recognized fast‐growing bacterial genus, which is considered to be attractive for the development of next‐generation biotechnological workhorses. Here, three Vibrio strains FA1, FA2, and FA3, capable of growing rapidly in cost‐effective media, are isolated and systematically evaluated. Genome sequencing and comparative genomic analyses are performed to reveal the underlying genetic differences between the strains and estimate their biotechnological potential. Studies of their phylogenetic tree, colinear visualization, and orthology uncover some difference in the gene content related to cell growth of the four Vibrio strains FA1, FA2, FA3, and ATCC 14048, which may explain growth superiority of the isolated strains. It is noted that there are more copies of several genes related to the DNA replication in the FA2 genome than in the other compared Vibrio strains. Furthermore, the genes responsible for amino synthesis are found, such as asD, within strains FA1 and FA2. Gene cluster cadABC, which relates to cell adaptation at acidic pH, only exists in strains FA1, FA2, and FA3. Finally, the wide spectra of substrates and genetic operability of these three isolated Vibrio strains are initially verified. This study provides excellent candidates for the development of next‐generation fast‐growing microbial workhorses, which may be very useful in synthetic biology.
Selecting for lactic acid producing and utilising bacteria in anaerobic enrichment cultures
Authors: Rombouts Julius Laurens , Kranendonk Elsemiek Madeleine Maria , Regueira Alberte , Weissbrodt David Gregory , Kleerebezem Robbert , van Loosdrecht Mark Cornelis Maria
Published: February 2020

Lactic acid‐producing bacteria are important in many fermentations, such as the production of biobased plastics. Insight in the competitive advantage of lactic acid bacteria over other fermentative bacteria in a mixed culture enables ecology‐based process design and can aid the development of sustainable and energy‐efficient bioprocesses. Here we demonstrate the enrichment of lactic acid bacteria in a controlled sequencing batch bioreactor environment using a glucose‐based medium supplemented with peptides and B vitamins. A mineral medium enrichment operated in parallel was dominated by Ethanoligenens species and fermented glucose to acetate, butyrate and hydrogen. The complex medium enrichment was populated by Lactococcus, Lactobacillus and Megasphaera species and showed a product spectrum of acetate, ethanol, propionate, butyrate and valerate. An intermediate peak of lactate was observed, showing the simultaneous production and consumption of lactate, which is of concern for lactic acid production purposes. This study underlines that the competitive advantage for lactic acid‐producing bacteria primarily lies in their ability to attain a high biomass specific uptake rate of glucose, which was two times higher for the complex medium enrichment when compared to the mineral medium enrichment. The competitive advantage of lactic acid production in rich media can be explained using a resource allocation theory for microbial growth processes.
Characterization of methanol utilization negative Pichia pastoris for secreted protein production: New cultivation strategies for current and future applications
Authors: Zavec Domen , Gasser Brigitte , Mattanovich Diethard
Published: February 2020

The methanol utilization (Mut) phenotype in the yeast Pichia pastoris (syn. Komagataella spp.) is defined by the deletion of the genes AOX1 and AOX2. The Mut− phenotype cannot grow on methanol as a single carbon source. We assessed the Mut− phenotype for secreted recombinant protein production. The methanol inducible AOX1 promoter (PAOX1) was active in the Mut− phenotype and showed adequate eGFP fluorescence levels and protein yields (YP/X) in small‐scale screenings. Different bioreactor cultivation scenarios with methanol excess concentrations were tested using PAOX1HSA and PAOX1vHH expression constructs. Scenario B comprising a glucose‐methanol phase and a 72‐hr‐long methanol only phase was the best performing, producing 531 mg/L HSA and 1631 mg/L vHH. 61% of the HSA was produced in the methanol only phase where no biomass growth was observed, representing a special case of growth independent production. By using the Mut− phenotype, the oxygen demand, heat output, and specific methanol uptake (qmethanol) in the methanol phase were reduced by more than 80% compared with the MutS phenotype. The highlighted improved process parameters coupled with growth independent protein production are overlooked benefits of the Mut− strain for current and future applications in the field of recombinant protein production.
Multiplexed clonality verification of cell lines for protein biologic production
Authors: O'Brien Sofie A. , Ojha Juhi , Wu Paul , Hu Wei‐Shou
Published: February 2020

During the development of cell lines for therapeutic protein production, a vector harboring a product transgene is integrated into the genome. To ensure production stability and consistent product quality, single‐cell cloning is then performed. Since cells derived from the same parental clone have the same transgene integration locus, the identity of the integration site can also be used to verify the clonality of a production cell line. In this study, we present a high‐throughput pipeline for clonality verification through integration site analysis. Sequence capture of genomic fragments that contain both vector and host cell genome sequences was used followed by next‐generation sequencing to sequence the relevant vector‐genome junctions. A Python algorithm was then developed for integration site identification and validated using a cell line with known integration sites. Using this system, we identified the integration sites of the host vector for 31 clonal cell lines from five independent vector integration events while using one set of probes against common features of the host vector for transgene integration. Cell lines from the same lineage had common integration sites, and they were distinct from unrelated cell lines. The integration sites obtained for each clone as part of the analysis may also be used for clone selection, as the sites can have a profound effect on the transgene's transcript level and the stability of the resulting cell line. This method thus provides a rapid system for integration site identification and clonality verification.
The road to support is paved with good interventions: Vascular complications of percutaneous LVAD use
Authors: Kreidieh Bahij , Gray William A.
Published: February 2020

Key Points

The real‐world incidence of vascular complications associated with pLVAD use may be higher than previously reported.

This finding implies increased morbidity, length of stay, cost, and reduced overall benefit from pLVADs.

Aversion of vascular complications must be integrated into device design as pLVADs continue to evolve in the future.
Hemodynamics rounds: Hemodynamics of mitral valve interventions
Authors: Lloyd James W. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Eleid Mackram F.
Published: February 2020

Mitral valvulopathy presents as regurgitation, stenosis, or mixed disease and can occur in both native and prosthetic valves. Such disease develops in conjunction with pathophysiologic changes in the left atrium (LA) and drives changes in LA compliance, pressure, and thus clinical syndromes. With advances in the understanding and treatment of structural heart disease and in the setting of higher‐risk patient populations, less‐invasive transcatheter approaches have become increasingly commonplace in the treatment of mitral valve disease. Over time, transcatheter mitral valve interventions have evolved to include paravalvular leak closure, mitral valve repair, and mitral valve replacement. Parallel to this evolution, advances in invasive intracardiac pressure monitoring, particularly at the level of the LA, have also occurred. These advances emphasize the unique interplay between mitral valve disease and LA function; account for limitations of noninvasive assessment; and guide beneficial outcomes in each area of transcatheter mitral valve intervention. As a result, continuous transseptal LA pressure monitoring has developed into an indispensable instrument in successful percutaneous mitral valve intervention, complementing traditional noninvasive assessment.
Template Directed Syntheses of Electrochemically Active [2]Rotaxanes: Anion Binding and Redox Studies
Authors: Nandi Mandira , Bej Somnath , Bhunia Sarmistha , Ghosh Pradyut
Published: February 2020

A heteroditopic macrocycle, PhenMC, composed of phenanthroline ester, aromatic spacer and oxy ether moieties is explored to synthesize two new rotaxanes, RTXN1 and RTXN2 by employing different templating strategies, active metal templation and donor‐acceptor interaction respectively. In this regard, Cu(I) mediated azide‐alkyne cycloaddition reaction is adopted to achieve RTXN1 in case of active metal templation. On the other hand, a new 1 : 1 threaded complex, PRT1 (pseudorotaxane) is synthesized via π‐π stacking interaction between viologen moiety containing alkyne terminated axle and PhenMC toward the development of RTXN2 by appropriately stoppering the pseudorotaxane. All the synthesized compounds are well characterized by several methods such as ESI‐MS, ITC, UV‐Vis, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, wherever applicable. Furthermore, RTXN1 has been explored toward inorganic anion binding studies by NMR titration and electrochemical methods. Subsequently, redox behavior of RTXN2 with multiple redox centers has also been described by cyclic voltammetry and UV‐Vis spectroscopic studies.
Rare‐Earth Catalyzed C−H Bond Alumination of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Kanbur Uddhav , Sadow Aaron D.
Published: February 2020

Organoaluminum reagents’ application in catalytic C−H bond functionalization is limited by competitive side reactions, such as carboalumination and hydroalumination. Herein, rare‐earth tetramethylaluminate complexes are shown to catalyze the exclusive C−H bond metalation of terminal alkynes with the commodity reagents trimethyl‐, triethyl‐, and triisobutylaluminum. Kinetic experiments probing alkyl‐group exchange between rare‐earth aluminates and trialkylaluminum, C−H bond metalation of alkynes, and catalytic conversions reveal distinct pathways of catalytic aluminations with triethylaluminum versus trimethylaluminum. Most significantly, kinetic data point to reversible formation of a unique [Ln](AlR4)2⋅AlR3 adduct, followed by turnover‐limiting alkyne metalation. That is, C−H bond activation occurs from a more associated organometallic species, rather than the expected coordinatively unsaturated species. These mechanistic conclusions allude to a new general strategy for catalytic C−H bond alumination that make use of highly electrophilic metal catalysts.
Fabrication and characterization of polyvinyl chloride mixed matrix membranes containing high aspect ratio anatase titania and hydrous manganese oxide nanoparticle for efficient removal of heavy metal ions: Competitive removal study
Authors: Delavar Maedeh , Bakeri Gholamreza , Hosseini Morteza , Nabian Nima
Published: February 2020

In this study, novel polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ultrafiltration mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) containing high aspect ratio anatase titania (ANT) and hydrous manganese oxide (HMO) nanoparticles were synthesized in order to decontaminate cadmium and copper metal ions. ANT and HMO nanoparticles with various loadings in a range of 5‐15 were used in the casting solution of MMMs. The characterization of fabricated MMMs was carried out with respect to the structural morphology, hydrophilicity, and composition by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), water contact angle, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. With an increase in the nanoparticle loadings, the change in other membrane characteristics such as mean pore size, pure water flux, and porosity were also evaluated. The results revealed that the mean pore size and water flux increased at a higher loading of ANT and HMO nanoparticles, while the contact angle and porosity of the membranes showed reverse trends. Moreover, the higher flux of pure water was obtained for PVC‐ANT MMMs compared to PVC‐HMO MMMs because of the larger mean pore size, higher porosity, and hydrophilicity of PVC‐ANT MMMs. In this study, the decontamination of cadmium and copper metal ions in single and binary systems of heavy metals was investigated and the effect of Mn2+ (as an interfering ion) was also studied. The evaluation of the metal ion removal data demonstrated that the affinity sequence of both the PVC‐ANT‐15 and PVC‐HMO‐15 MMMs for heavy metal removal was Cu2+ > Cd2+ > Mn2+ in the single and binary systems. It was found through ultrafiltration (UF) experiments that PVC‐ANT MMM was the most efficient membrane in the elimination of heavy metals due to the superior ANT adsorption capacity. However, the overall findings disclosed that both ANT and HMO nanoparticles are suitable candidates for the preparation of MMMs used in cadmium and copper decontamination from aqueous solutions.
Cargo hold and delivery: Ankyrins, spectrins, and their functional patterning of neurons
Authors: Lorenzo Damaris N.
Published: February 2020

The highly polarized, typically very long, and nonmitotic nature of neurons present them with unique challenges in the maintenance of their homeostasis. This architectural complexity serves a rich and tightly controlled set of functions that enables their fast communication with neighboring cells and endows them with exquisite plasticity. The submembrane neuronal cytoskeleton occupies a pivotal position in orchestrating the structural patterning that determines local and long‐range subcellular specialization, membrane dynamics, and a wide range of signaling events. At its center is the partnership between ankyrins and spectrins, which self‐assemble with both remarkable long‐range regularity and micro‐ and nanoscale specificity to precisely position and stabilize cell adhesion molecules, membrane transporters, ion channels, and other cytoskeletal proteins. To accomplish these generally conserved, but often functionally divergent and spatially diverse, roles these partners use a combinatorial program of a couple of dozens interacting family members, whose code is not fully unraveled. In a departure from their scaffolding roles, ankyrins and spectrins also enable the delivery of material to the plasma membrane by facilitating intracellular transport. Thus, it is unsurprising that deficits in ankyrins and spectrins underlie several neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and psychiatric disorders. Here, I summarize key aspects of the biology of spectrins and ankyrins in the mammalian neuron and provide a snapshot of the latest advances in decoding their roles in the nervous system.
Designing crops for adaptation to the drought and high‐temperature risks anticipated in future climates
Authors: Hammer Graeme. L. , McLean Greg , van Oosterom Erik , Chapman Scott , Zheng Bangyou , Wu Alex , Doherty Alastair , Jordan David
Published: February 2020

Climate risks pervade agriculture and generate major consequences on crop production. We do not know what the next season will be like, let alone the season 30 years hence. Yet farmers need to decide on genotype and management (G×M) combinations in advance of the season and in the face of this environment risk. Beyond that, breeders must target traits for future genotypes up to 10 years ahead of their release. Here we present the case for next generation design of G×M×E for crop adaptation in future climates. We focus on adaptation to drought and high‐temperature shock in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] in Australia, but the concepts are generic. The considerable knowledge of climate, both past and future, gives us insight into climate variability and trends. We know that CO2 and temperature are increasing, and this influences drought and high‐temperature risks for crops. We also have considerable knowledge of crop growth and development responses to CO2, drought, and high temperature that have been integrated into advanced crop simulation models. Here we explore by simulation the design of crops best suited to current and future environments. A yield–risk framework is used to identify adapted G×M combinations. The results in this case study indicate the urgent need for high‐temperature tolerance to effects on seed set. Further, existing approaches to G×M for effective use of water through the crop cycle will not be adequate to maintain productivity once global warming of ∼2°C is reached. Improvement in transpiration efficiency offered the avenue with best potential for advancing adaptation relevant to future climates.