bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astragaloside IV reverses simvastatin‐induced skeletal muscle injury by activating the AMPK‐PGC‐1α signalling pathway
Authors: Jiang Bing , Yang Yu‐Jiao , Dang Wen‐Zhen , Li Hui , Feng Gui‐Ze , Yu Xiao‐Chen , Shen Xiao‐Yan , Hu Xu‐Guang
Published: December 2019

In this study, we investigated the effect of astragaloside IV on skeletal muscle energy metabolism disorder caused by statins and explored the possible mechanisms. High‐fat diet‐fed apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE−/−) mice performed aerobic exercise and were administered simvastatin, simvastatin + trimetazidine, or simvastatin + astragaloside IV by gavage. At the end of treatment, exercise performance was assessed by the hanging grid test, forelimb grip test, and running tolerance test. Moreover, plasma lipid and creatine kinase concentrations were measured. After sacrifice, the gastrocnemius muscle was used to assess muscle morphology, and energy metabolism was evaluated by determining the concentration of lactic acid and the storage capacity of adenosine triphosphate and glycogen. Mitochondrial function was assessed by measuring mitochondrial complex III and citrate synthase activity and membrane potential. In addition, oxidative stress was assessed by determining the level of hydrogen peroxide. Finally, using western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, we explored the mechanism of astragaloside IV in alleviating simvastatin‐induced muscle injury. Our results demonstrated that astragaloside IV reversed simvastatin‐induced muscle injury without affecting the lipid‐lowering effect of simvastatin. Moreover, astragaloside IV promoted the phosphorylation of AMPK and activated PGC‐1α, which upregulated the expression of NRF1 to enhance energy metabolism and inhibit skeletal muscle cell apoptosis.
Development and validation of kurtosis response spectrum analysis for antivibration packaging design taking into consideration kurtosis
Authors: Hosoyama Akira , Tsuda Kazuki , Horiguchi Shogo
Published: December 2019

In current antivibration packaging designs, transport vibrations are generally assumed to be Gaussian random vibrations, and the cushioning material is designed so that the acceleration root mean square (RMS) transmitted to a product is low. However, transport vibrations are often non‐Gaussian random vibrations, and therefore, it is necessary to carry out antivibration packaging design, taking into consideration the non‐Gaussianity characteristics and acceleration RMS of the transport vibrations. In this study, a kurtosis response spectrum was proposed, which is an antivibration packaging design index, taking into account the non‐Gaussianity of transport vibrations. A kurtosis response spectrum is a plot of the kurtosis of the acceleration response for a series of single degree of freedom (SDOF) systems to the base acceleration input, assuming that the packaged product is the SDOF system. The kurtosis response spectrum was applied to the actual transportation data, and the results confirmed that the kurtosis of product response acceleration is different, depending on the natural frequency of the packaged product. Experiments were conducted using a dummy packaged product, and the experimental results showed good agreement with those of the kurtosis response spectrum analysis. It can be concluded that the kurtosis response spectrum is useful to clarify the effect of natural frequency on the kurtosis response. By referring to the kurtosis response spectrum, packaging engineers can obtain the necessary information to perform antivibration packaging design, taking into account the non‐Gaussianity of transport vibrations.
Is it worthwhile to go beyond the local‐density approximation in subsystem density functional theory?
Authors: Grimmel Stephanie A. , Teodoro Tiago Q. , Visscher Lucas
Published: December 2019

Frozen density embedding (FDE) theory is one of the major techniques aiming to bring modeling of extended chemical systems into the realm of high accuracy calculations. To improve its accuracy it is of interest to develop kinetic energy density functional approximations specifically for FDE applications. In the study reported here we focused on optimizing parameters of a generalized gradient approximation‐like kinetic energy functional with the purpose of better describing electron excitation energies. We found that our optimized parametrizations, named excPBE and excPBE‐3 (as these are derived from a Perdew‐Burke‐Ernzerhof‐like parametrization), could not yield improvements over available functionals when applied on a test set of systems designed to probe solvatochromic shifts. Moreover, as several different functionals yielded very similar errors to the simple local‐density approximation (LDA), it is questionable whether it is worthwhile to go beyond the LDA in this context.
The influence of high pressure on the structural stability, Vickers hardness and mechanical properties of Re and Ru dodecaborides
Authors: Pan Yong , Jia Yanlin
Published: December 2019

We apply the first‐principles approach to study the structural stability, Vickers hardness, and elastic modulus of ReB12and RuB12. In particular, we further investigate the influence of high pressure on the structural stability and mechanical properties of ReB12and RuB12. The calculated results show that ReB12and RuB12are thermodynamic stability under high pressure. Here, ReB12is more thermodynamic stability than that of the RuB12. The calculated Vickers hardness of ReB12and RuB12is 16.25 and 16.55 GPa, respectively. It is found that the calculated elastic constants and elastic modulus of ReB12and RuB12increase with increasing pressure. In particular, the calculated elastic constants and elastic modulus of ReB12are larger than that of the RuB12. The calculated electronic structure shows that the high hardness and elastic modulus of ReB12and RuB12are attributed to the 3D network B‐B covalent bonds.
Chemical characterization of small‐molecule inhibitors of monoamine oxidase B synthesized from the Acanthopanax senticosus root with affinity ultrafiltration mass spectrometry
Authors: He Yang , Wang Yimin , Zhang Xin , Zheng Zhong , Liu Shu , Xing Junpeng , Liu Zhiqiang , Zhou Hui
Published: December 2019

Rationale

Discovering and identifying new small‐molecule inhibitors of monoamine oxidase B (MAO‐B) could provide the potential to treat many neurodegenerative diseases.

Methods

We employed affinity ultrafiltration liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (AUF‐LC/MSn) to identify and characterize small‐molecule inhibitors of MAO‐B from a 30% ethanolic extract of Acanthopanax senticosus root (ASR). In vitro tests were performed in stimulated BV2 microglia to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory effects of the ASR preparation. An in vitro enzyme activity assay, measuring half‐maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) against MAO‐B, determined the inhibitory activity of the potential MAO‐B ligands.

Results

ASR treatment significantly inhibited NO release (p <0.01) and attenuated tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α expression in stimulated BV2 microglia. Nine compounds were isolated from the ASR preparation as potential MAO‐B inhibitors, identified as quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, isofraxidin, dicaffeoylquinic acid, pinoresinol diglucoside, medioresinol 4’‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, eletutheroside E, syringaresinol O‐β‐D‐glucoside, and trihydroxyoctadecenoic acid, based on their tandem mass spectra.

Conclusions

Our study provides critical data on compounds from ASR extracts which are suitable for the development of new MAO‐B inhibitors as potential therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases.
Design of model predictive control for constrained Markov jump linear systems with multiplicative noises and online portfolio selection
Authors: Dombrovskii Vladimir , Pashinskaya Tatiana
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we consider model predictive control for a class of constrained discrete‐time Markov jump linear systems with multiplicative noises. A generalized performance criterion is composed of a weighted sum of a linear combination of the (a) expected value of quadratic forms of state and control vectors, (b) quadratic forms of the expected value of the state vector, and (c) the linear component of the expected value of the state vector. The goal of the present paper is to design optimal control strategies subject to hard constraints on the input manipulated variables and to provide a numerically tractable algorithm for practical applications. The results are applied to a problem of online investment portfolio selection. Our approach is tested on a set of a real data from the New York Stock Exchange.
Adaptive estimation of component faults and actuator faults for nonlinear one‐sided Lipschitz systems
Authors: Jmal Assaad , Naifar O. , Ben Makhlouf A. , Derbel N. , Hammami M. A.
Published: December 2019

Fault estimation for classical nonlinear Lipschitz systems has been subject to several research works. So far, much less interest has been given to the more generalized class of systems, namely, one‐sided Lipchitz systems. Dealing with component faults and actuator faults, only very few works have been done to reconstruct these types of faults for this new class of systems. A major limitation of the previous works is that the fault vector to be estimated there does not give any information about the actual faulty physical parameters of the system, so component faults and actuator faults are not distinguishable. In this paper, a set of possible faulty parameters in the system is estimated. Component faults and actuator faults are separated and distinguished. The effectiveness of the proposed method is shown through simulations for a numerical example.
Recent developments in the use of organic–inorganic nanohybrids for drug delivery
Authors: Manatunga Danushika C. , Godakanda V. Umayangana , de Silva Rohini M. , de Silva K. M. Nalin
Published: December 2019

Organic–inorganic nanohybrid (OINH) structures providing a versatile platform for drug delivery with improved characteristics are an area which has gained recent attention. Much effort has been taken to develop these structures to provide a viable treatment options for much alarming diseases such as cancer, bone destruction, neurological disorders, and so on. This review focuses on current work carried out in producing different types of hybrid drug carriers identifying their properties, fabrication techniques, and areas where they have been applied. A brief introduction on understating the requirement for blending organic–inorganic components into a nanohybrid drug carrier is followed with an elaboration given about the different types of OINHs developed currently highlighting their properties and applications. Then, different fabrication techniques are discussed given attention to surface functionalization, one‐pot synthesis, wrapping, and electrospinning methods. Finally, it is concluded by briefing the challenges that are remaining to be addressed to obtain multipurpose nanohybrid drug carriers with wider applicability.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
The heavy quark expansion for inclusive semileptonic charm decays revisited
Authors: Fael Matteo , Mannel Thomas , Vos K. Keri
Published: December 2019

Abstract

The Heavy Quark Expansion (HQE) has become an extremely powerful tool in flavor physics. For charm decays, where the expansion parameters α

s
(m

c
) and ΛQCD
/m

c
are bigger than for bottom decays, it remains to be seen if the HQE can be applied with similar success. Nevertheless, to make optimal use of the plethora of data already available and coming in the near future, a better understanding of HQE for charm decays is crucial. This paper discusses in detail how the HQE for charm decays is set up, what is the role of four-quark (weak annihilation) operators and how this compares to the well understood bottom decays. Subtleties concerning radiative corrections and the charm mass scheme are briefly discussed. An experimental study of the relevant HQE hadronic matrix elements will then show if the HQE expansion for charm converges well enough. Besides serving as an important cross check for inclusive B decays, in the end, this study might open the road for inclusive |V

cs

| and |V

cd

| extractions.
Displaced heavy neutrinos from Z′ decays at the LHC
Authors: Chiang Cheng-Wei , Cottin Giovanna , Das Arindam , Mandal Sanjoy
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study the LHC sensitivity to probe a long-lived heavy neutrino N in the context of Z′ models. We focus on displaced vertex signatures of N when pair produced via a Z′, decaying to leptons and jets inside the inner trackers of the LHC experiments. We explore the LHC reach with current long-lived particle search strategies for either one or two displaced vertices in association with hadronic tracks or jets. We focus on two well-motivated models, namely, the minimal U(1)B−L scenario and its U(1)X extension. We find that searches for at least one displaced vertex can cover a significant portion of the parameter space, with light-heavy neutrino mixings as low as |V

lN

|
2
≈ 10
−17, and l = e, μ accessible across GeV scale heavy neutrino masses.
Source and response soft charges for Maxwell theory on AdSd
Authors: Esmaeili Erfan , Hosseinzadeh Vahid , Sheikh-Jabbari M.M.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study asymptotic symmetries and their associated charges for Maxwell theory on anti de Sitter (AdS) background in any dimension. This is obtained by con- structing a conserved symplectic structure for the bulk and a theory on the boundary, which we specify. We show that the boundary phase space is described by two scalars and two sets of “source” and “response” boundary gauge transformations. The bulk dynamics is invariant under these two sets of boundary transformations. We study the (soft) charges associated with these two sets and show that they form an infinite dimensional Heisenberg type algebra. Studying the large AdS radius flat space limit, we show only the source soft charges survive. We also analyze algebra of charges associated with SO(d −1,2) isometries of the background AdSdspace and study how they act on our source and response charges. We briefly discuss implication of our results for the AdS/CFT.
Time and space-resolved quantification of plasma membrane sialylation for measurements of cell function and neurotoxicity
Authors: Kranaster Petra , Karreman Christiaan , Dold Jeremias E. G. A. , Krebs Alice , Funke Melina , Holzer Anna-Katharina , Klima Stefanie , Nyffeler Johanna , Helfrich Stefan , Wittmann Valentin , Leist Marcel
Published: December 2019

While there are many methods to quantify the synthesis, localization, and pool sizes of proteins and DNA during physiological responses and toxicological stress, only few approaches allow following the fate of carbohydrates. One of them is metabolic glycoengineering (MGE), which makes use of chemically modified sugars (CMS) that enter the cellular biosynthesis pathways leading to glycoproteins and glycolipids. The CMS can subsequently be coupled (via bio-orthogonal chemical reactions) to tags that are quantifiable by microscopic imaging. We asked here, whether MGE can be used in a quantitative and time-resolved way to study neuronal glycoprotein synthesis and its impairment. We focused on the detection of sialic acid (Sia), by feeding human neurons the biosynthetic precursor N-acetyl-mannosamine, modified by an azide tag. Using this system, we identified non-toxic conditions that allowed live cell labeling with high spatial and temporal resolution, as well as the quantification of cell surface Sia. Using combinations of immunostaining, chromatography, and western blotting, we quantified the percentage of cellular label incorporation and effects on glycoproteins such as polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule. A specific imaging algorithm was used to quantify Sia incorporation into neuronal projections, as potential measure of complex cell function in toxicological studies. When various toxicants were studied, we identified a subgroup (mitochondrial respiration inhibitors) that affected neurite glycan levels several hours before any other viability parameter was affected. The MGE-based neurotoxicity assay, thus allowed the identification of subtle impairments of neurochemical function with very high sensitivity.
Comparison of drug-related problem risk assessment tools for older adults: a systematic review
Authors: Puumalainen Emmi , Airaksinen Marja , Jalava Sanni E. , Chen Timothy F. , Dimitrow Maarit
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This study aims to systematically review studies describing screening tools that assess the risk for drug-related problems (DRPs) in older adults (≥ 60 years). The focus of the review is to compare DRP risks listed in different tools and describe their development methods and validation.

Methods

The systematic search was conducted using evidence-based medicine, Medline Ovid, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from January 1, 1985, to April 7, 2016. Publications describing general DRP risk assessment tools for older adults written in English were included. Disease, therapy, and drug-specific tools were excluded. Outcome measures included an assessment tool’s content, development methods, and validation assessment.

Results

The search produced 15 publications describing 11 DRP risk assessment tools. Three major categories of risks for DRPs included (1) patient or caregiver related risks; (2) pharmacotherapy-related risks; and (3) medication use process-related risks. Of all the risks included in the tools only 8 criteria appeared in at least 4 of the tools, problems remembering to take the medication being the most common (n=7). Validation assessments varied and content validation was the most commonly conducted (n = 9). Reliability assessment was conducted for 6 tools, most commonly by calculating internal consistency (n = 3) and inter-rater reliability (n = 2).

Conclusions

The considerable variety between the contents of the tools indicates that there is no consensus on the risk factors for DRPs that should be screened in older adults taking multiple medicines. Further research is needed to improve the accuracy and timeliness of the DRP risk assessment tools.
Exposure to bullying behaviours and support from co-workers and supervisors: a three-way interaction and the effect on health and well-being
Authors: Blomberg Stefan , Rosander Michael
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Workplace bullying can be very stressful and it has detrimental effects on health and well-being which makes it an important area of study. Social support has traditionally been seen as important in moderating work-related stress. It was hypothesised that the negative association between exposure to bullying behaviours, and health and well-being is moderated by (a) perceived support from close co-workers and (b) perceived supportive leadership. In the study, we also investigated a three-way interaction between exposure to bullying behaviours, perceived support from close co-workers and perceived supportive leadership. This association has not been studied before and add new knowledge to the research field.

Methods

We used a moderated moderation analysis of workplace bullying, co-worker support and supervisor support using cross-sectional data from a work environment survey with 1383 respondents (75% response rate).

Results

The moderated moderation analysis confirmed the moderating effect of perceived co-worker support but not the moderating effect of perceived supervisor support. There was a three-way interaction, but not in the case of the lowest 12.6% of perceived supervisor support scores.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the negative effect of workplace bullying on health and well-being is weaker if victims perceive that they have co-worker support, but this protective effect seems to be conditional on the perceived level of supervisor support. In other words, lack of supportive leadership may block the beneficial effect of perceived co-worker support.
Holmium laser lithotripsy improves the rate of successful transcystic laparoscopic common bile duct exploration
Authors: Jones Timothy , Al Musawi Jasim , Navaratne Lalin , Martinez-Isla Alberto
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Transcystic laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) seems safer than transductal LCBDE and is associated with fewer biliary complications. It has traditionally been limited to smaller bile duct stones however. This study aimed to assess the ability of laser-assisted bile duct exploration by laparoendoscopy (LABEL) to increase the rate of successful transcystic LCBDE in patients with bile duct stones at the time of laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

Patients undergoing LCBDE between 2014 and 2018 were retrospectively analysed. Baseline demographic and medical characteristics were recorded, as well as intra-operative findings and post-procedure outcomes. Standard LCBDE via the transcystic route was initially attempted in all patients, and LABEL was only utilised if there was failure to achieve transcystic duct clearance. The transductal route was utilised for failed transcystic extraction.

Results

One hundred and seventy-nine consecutive patients underwent LCBDE; 119 (66.5%) underwent unaided transcystic extraction, 29 (16.2%) required LABEL to achieve transcystic extraction and 31 (17.3%) failed transcystic extraction (despite the use of LABEL in 7 of these cases) and hence required conversion to transductal LCBDE. As such, LABEL could be considered to increase the rate of successful transcystic extraction from 66.5% (119/179) to 82.7% (148/179). Patients requiring LABEL were however more likely to experience major complications (CD III–IV 5.6% vs 0.7%, p = 0.042) although none were specifically attributable to the laser intra-operatively.

Conclusions

LABEL is an effective adjunct to LCBDE that improves the rate of successful transcystic extraction.
Nonstructural p26 proteins encoded by the 3’-proximal genes of velariviruses and criniviruses are orthologs
Authors: Rogozin I. B. , Agranovsky A. A.
Published: December 2019

The 3’-most genes in RNA-2 of the Crinivirus genus members (family Closteroviridae) code for non-structural p26 proteins that share amino acid sequence similarity [Stewart LR, Hwang MS, Falk BW (2009) Virus Res 145:293-299]. In this study, sensitive bioinformatic tools have been used to identify the homologous p26 proteins encoded by the 3’ genes in monopartite genomes of the members of Velarivirus, another Closteroviridae genus, and mint vein banding-associated virus, an unassigned member of the family. The p26 proteins showed similarity in their predicted secondary structures, but an amino acid sequence alignment showed no strictly conserved positions, thus indicating a high plasticity of these non-structural proteins. The implications of the sequence analysis for possible functions of the crinivirus and velarivirus p26 proteins are discussed.
Using Genetics to Examine a General Liability to Childhood Psychopathology
Authors: Riglin Lucy , Thapar Ajay K. , Leppert Beate , Martin Joanna , Richards Alexander , Anney Richard , Davey Smith George , Tilling Kate , Stergiakouli Evie , Lahey Benjamin B. , O’Donovan Michael C. , Collishaw Stephan , Thapar Anita
Published: December 2019

Psychiatric disorders show phenotypic as well as genetic overlaps. There are however also marked developmental changes throughout childhood. We investigated the extent to which, for a full range of early childhood psychopathology, a general “p” factor was explained by genetic liability, as indexed by multiple different psychiatric polygenic risk scores (PRS) and whether these relationships altered with age. The sample was a UK, prospective, population-based cohort with psychopathology data at age 7 (N = 8161) and age 13 (N = 7017). PRS were generated from large published genome-wide association studies. At both ages, we found evidence for a childhood “p” factor as well as for specific factors. Schizophrenia and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) PRS were associated with this general “p” factor at both ages but depression and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) PRS were not. We also found some evidence of associations between schizophrenia, ADHD and depression PRS with specific factors, but these were less robust and there was evidence for developmental changes.
Enriching Mathematics Education with Visual Arts: Effects on Elementary School Students’ Ability in Geometry and Visual Arts
Authors: Schoevers Eveline M. , Leseman Paul P. M. , Kroesbergen Evelyn H.
Published: December 2019

This study evaluates the effects of the Mathematics, Arts, and Creativity in Education (MACE) program on students’ ability in geometry and visual arts in the upper grades of elementary school. The program consisted of a lesson series for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students in which geometry and visual arts were integrated, alongside with a professional development program for teachers. A quasi-experimental study was conducted in which three groups of teachers and their classes were investigated. One group of teachers taught the lesson series and followed a professional development program (n = 36), one group of teachers only taught the lesson series (n = 36), and a comparison group taught a series of traditional geometry lessons from mathematical textbooks (n = 43). A geometrical ability, creativity, and vocabulary test and a visual arts assignment were used in a pre- and post-measurements to test the effects of the MACE program. Results showed that students who received the MACE lesson series improved more than students who received regular geometry lessons only in geometrical aspects perceived in a visual artwork. Regarding students’ understanding and explanation of geometrical phenomena and geometrical creative thinking, all students improved, but no differences between the groups were found, which implies that on these aspects the MACE program was as effective as the comparison group that received a more traditional form of geometry education.
Mental Health Problems Among Adolescents in Sweden from 1995 to 2011: The Role of Immigrant Status and the Proportions of Immigrant Adolescents in Their Surrounding Community
Authors: Kim Yunhwan , Evans Brittany E. , Hagquist Curt
Published: December 2019

We compared the mental health of native and immigrant adolescents in Sweden from 1995 to 2011 and examined whether the municipality-level proportion of immigrant adolescents moderated the association between individual-level immigrant status and mental health. The sample (14,189 adolescents aged 15–16) was obtained from a repeated cross-sectional study conducted from 1995 to 2011. Adolescent self-report data (gender, immigrant status, economic situation, and mental health) and municipality-level data (proportion of immigrant adolescents) were used in multilevel linear regression analyses. Immigrant adolescents reported more mental health problems than their native Swedish peers. The long-term trend in mental health problems did not differ between the two groups. The association between individual immigrant status and mental health did not differ according to the municipality-level rate of immigrant adolescents. These findings highlight the need for public health attention to and efforts to address immigrant adolescents’ mental health problems in Sweden.
Against ‘functional gravitational energy’: a critical note on functionalism, selective realism, and geometric objects and gravitational energy
Authors: Duerr Patrick M.
Published: December 2019

The present paper revisits the debate between realists about gravitational energy in GR (who opine that gravitational energy can be said to meaningfully exist in GR) and anti-realists/eliminativists (who deny this). I re-assess the arguments underpinning Hoefer’s seminal eliminativist stance, and those of their realist detractors’ responses. A more circumspect reading of the former is proffered that discloses where the so far not fully appreciated,realchallenges lie for realism about gravitational energy. I subsequently turn to Lam and Read’s recent proposals for such a realism. Their arguments are critically examined. Special attention is devoted to the adequacy of Read’s appeals to functionalism, imported from the philosophy of mind.
Juvenile Dermatomyositis—Clinical Phenotypes
Authors: Li Danyang , Tansley Sarah L
Published: December 2019

Purpose of Review

Juvenile dermatomyositis is a heterogeneous disease with variable clinical outcomes. Here, we describe the recognised subtypes of idiopathic inflammatory myositis which occur in children, with particular reference to disease-associated autoantibodies.

Recent Findings

Large cohort studies have demonstrated that myositis autoantibodies are common in juvenile dermatomyositis and can be found in the majority of patients. They identify homogenous clinical subgroups and inform prognosis, particularly the risks of developing interstitial lung disease. Descriptions of immune-mediated necrotising myositis in juvenile patients have highlighted a rare but important clinical subset typically associated with severe muscle disease and treatment resistance.

It is increasingly apparent that autoantibodies can provide detailed information on prognosis and the likely disease associations in those with juvenile dermatomyositis. Further work is needed to establish how this knowledge should influence our approach to treatment.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Permian Coals of India: Source and Significance
Authors: Naik Amiya Shankar
Published: December 2019

The organic matter entrapped in the sediments often retain their molecular structures for millions of years. These structures hold important clues to the origin, precursors and proxies for the sedimentary environment. The investigation on the Permian coals reveal pyrene, benzo[a] anthracene, fluoranthene, indeno [1,2,3-cd] pyrene, chrysene, triphenylene, benzo[a] pyrene, benzo[e] pyrene, perylene, benzo[ghi] perylene and coronene which offer a window to the geological episodes of the past. There are two categories of PAH in the sediments, one formed from biological molecules through diagenetic process and the second class formed due to the effect of heat and fire. PAH such as pyrene, benzo[a] anthracene, fluoranthene, indeno[1,2,3-cd] pyrene, benzo[a] pyrene, coronene and chrysene, are product of vegetation fire, these pyrogenic products may have been introduced into the paleomire by the riverine channels. The global fire in the end of Permian is well recorded in geological history which was followed by Permian–Triassic P/T mass extinction. These PAH possibly represent the vegetation fire during the Permian. The PAH are also environmentally sensitive as they are known to create health hazards causing cancer to humans. Therefore, coal extraction and utilization pose a major challenge in coal handling plants, thermal power plants, metallurgical industries and other coal based industries.
Potential Use of ASTER Derived Emissivity, Thermal Inertia and Albedo Image for Discriminating Different Rock Types of Aravalli Group of Rocks, Rajasthan
Authors: Rani Komal , Guha Arindam , Pal Sanjit Kumar , Kumar K. Vinod
Published: December 2019

In the present study, broad band emissivity, apparent thermal inertia and albedo image products have been derived based on processing of Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and reflection (ASTER) data and analyzed their potential for delineating different metasedimentary units of Aravalli Group in Rajasthan. The major focus of the work is to analyze the potential of emissivity bands with respect to conjugated image product of emissivity, albedo and inertia for discriminating different rock types. In this regard, it was observed that combined use of emissivity, thermal inertia and albedo was effective for delineating different rock types as the combined variation of thermo-physical and mineralogical properties were recorded in these parameters. On the other hand, broad band emissivity spectra of rocks of the study area had subtle contrast, which was not optimum for the discrimination of different rock types. This was evident in the ASTER derived emissivity composite in which spatial delineation of rocks of the study area was not possible. Therefore, it is concluded that the combined use of albedo, thermal inertia and emissivity was suitable to delineate different metasedimentary rocks. This was also evident from the three dimensional data plot of selected emissivity band, inertia and albedo which separated different rocks from one another.
Hydrochemical Characteristics and Quality Assessment of Stream Water in Parts of Gadag, Koppal and Ballery Districts of Karnataka, India
Authors: Bhat Nadeem Ahmad , Ghosh Prasun , Ahmed Waseem , Naaz Farha , Priyadashinee Alakananda
Published: December 2019

Seventeen water samples were collected from various streams in parts of Gadag, Koppal and Ballery districts of Karnataka and analyzed for major ions and heavy metals to determine the processes controlling surface water chemistry and suitability of water for drinking, livestock uses and irrigation purposes. The water samples are moderately alkaline to alkaline in nature and soft to moderately hard. The order of cations is Na>Ca>Mg>K, of anions is HCO3>Cl>SO4>CO3>NO3 and heavy metals Sr>Fe>V>Ba>Zn>Ni>Mn>As>Cu>Cr>Pb>Co. According to Gibbs diagram, the water samples fall in the dominant rock–water interaction area, suggesting chemical weathering of the rock forming minerals as the main process contributing ions to the surface water. Scatter plots of Ca + Mg vs HCO3 + SO4 and Ca/Na vs HCO3/Na clearly indicate the silicate weathering playing a dominant role on water chemistry. The evolution of surface water into Ca-Na-HCO3 and Ca-HCO3 water types is due to easy dissolution of silicate minerals and less time for water-rock interaction. Surface water samples are characterized by Na-Ca-HCO3-Cl the principal water type of schoeller’s plot, which can be related to the weathering of the silicate rocks along with some anthropogenic input. The physical parameters, major ions and heavy metals are within the permissible limits of WHO and BIS standards except for two samples, suggesting the water as suitable for domestic and livestock uses. The stream water is suitable for irrigation as per the quality parameters and plots including EC, sodium percent, sodium adsorption ratio, Wilcox and USDA classification diagrams.
Expanded universal carrier screening and its implementation within a publicly funded healthcare service
Authors: Rowe Charlotte A. , Wright Caroline F
Published: December 2019

Carrier screening, a well-established clinical initiative, has been slow to take advantage of the new possibilities offered by high-throughput next generation sequencing technologies. There is evidence of significant benefit in expanding carrier screening to include multiple autosomal recessive conditions and offering a ‘universal’ carrier screen that could be used for a pan-ethnic population. However, the challenges of implementing such a programme and the difficulties of demonstrating efficacy worthy of public health investment are significant barriers. In order for such a programme to be successful, it would need to be applicable and acceptable to the population, which may be ethnically and culturally diverse. There are significant practical and ethical implications associated with determining which variants, genes and conditions to include whilst maintaining adequate sensitivity and accuracy. Although preconception screening would maximise the potential benefits from universal carrier screening, the resource implications of different modes of delivery need to be carefully evaluated and balanced against maximising reproductive autonomy and ensuring equity of access. Currently, although a number of existing initiatives are increasing access to carrier screening, there is insufficient evidence to inform the development of a publicly funded, expanded, universal carrier screening programme that would justify investment over other healthcare interventions.
Adverse effects of subchronic exposure to cooking oil fumes on the gonads and the GPR30-mediated signaling pathway in female rats
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyang , He Yonghua , Lin Quanhui , Huang Lili , Zhang Qunwei , Xu Youqiong
Published: December 2019

Background

Cooking oil fumes (COFs) are composed of particulate matter, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, aldehydes, and ketones, and are currently a global health concern. Some agents in COFs are mutagenic and carcinogenic. However, only a few reports have addressed the hazardous effects of COF exposure on the female reproductive system. In this study, we explored the effects of subchronic exposure to COFs on female gonads in vivo and the possible involvement of the G-protein-coupled receptor 30 signaling pathway.

Methods

COFs were generated by heating commercially available canola oil in an iron pot. Adult female Wistar rats at 2 months of age were exposed to COFs at 32 mg/m3 for 0, 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 h/day for 56 days. The estrous cycle in rats was studied twice at 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on the 43rd treatment day until the current estrous cycle was complete. The rat body weight was measured before the experiment and at day 56 post-exposure. At the end of the experiment, rat blood was collected for gonadal hormone assay, and ovaries were collected for histology and mRNA isolation. The mRNA levels of GPR30, EGFR, STAT3, and ERK were determined by quantitative RT-PCR.

Results

At a concentration of 32.21 ± 5.11 mg/m3, COF exposure extended the estrous cycle in rats, and ovary coefficient decreased. COFs showed various effects on the sex hormone levels and follicles, depending on its exposure level. Exposure to COFs led to the changes in mRNA levels of the G-protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK).

Conclusion

This study indicated that cooking oil fume exposure disrupted the estrous cycle, sex hormone patterns, and follicle development in female rats in a dose-dependent manner. These adverse effects of cooking oil fumes on female reproductive health were correlated with the G-protein-coupled receptor 30-mediated signaling pathway.

Highlights

Subchronic exposure to COFs for 56 days had gonadal toxicity in female rats, that disrupted the estrous cycle, sex hormone patterns, and follicle development in a dose-dependent manner.

Reproductive endocrine disruption might be one of the female gonadotoxicity mechanisms of COFs.

These adverse effects of COFs on female reproductive health were correlated with the GPR30-mediated signaling pathway.
Native and non-native species for dryland afforestation: bridging ecosystem integrity and livelihood support
Authors: Reisman-Berman Orna , Keasar Tamar , Tel-Zur Noemi
Published: December 2019

Key message

We propose a silvicultural-ecological, participatory-based, conceptual framework to optimize the socioeconomic-ecological services provided by dryland afforestation, i.e. addressing the limited resources in arid areas while minimizing the harm to the environment. The framework applies the following criteria to select multifunctional tree species: (a) drought resistance, (b) minimal disruption of ecosystem integrity, and (c) maximization of ecosystem services, including supporting community livelihoods.

Context

Dryland afforestation projects frequently aim to combine multiple ecological and economic benefits. Nevertheless, plant species for such projects are selected mainly to withstand aridity, while other important characteristics are neglected. This approach has resulted in planted forests that are drought-resistant, yet harm the natural ecosystem and provide inadequate ecosystem services for humans.

Aims

We suggest a comprehensive framework for species selection for dryland afforestation that would increase, rather than disrupt, ecological and socio-economic services.

Methods

To formulate a synthesis, we review and analyze past and current afforestation policies and the socio-ecological crises ensuing from them.

Results

To increase afforestation services and to support human-community needs, both native and non-native woody species should be considered. The framework suggests experimental testing of candidate species for their compliance with the suggested species selection criteria. Furthermore, regional stakeholders are involved in evaluating, ranking, and prioritizing the candidate species according to experimental results and stakeholders’ values and needs. We exemplify our approach by describing our ongoing research project, aimed to evaluate several native and exoticZiziphusspecies in the Middle East region.

Conclusion

The employment of our proposed framework forms a novel community of native and non-native woody species. We discuss the ecological context of this proposal.
Machine learning models to predict onset of dementia: A label learning approach
Authors: Nori Vijay S. , Hane Christopher A. , Crown William H. , Au Rhoda , Burke William J. , Sanghavi Darshak M. , Bleicher Paul
Published: December 2019

Introduction

The study objective was to build a machine learning model to predict incident mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's Disease, and related dementias from structured data using administrative and electronic health record sources.

Methods

A cohort of patients (n = 121,907) and controls (n = 5,307,045) was created for modeling using data within 2 years of patient's incident diagnosis date. Additional cohorts 3–8 years removed from index data are used for prediction. Training cohorts were matched on age, gender, index year, and utilization, and fit with a gradient boosting machine, lightGBM.

Results

Incident 2‐year model quality on a held‐out test set had a sensitivity of 47% and area‐under‐the‐curve of 87%. In the 3‐year model, the learned labels achieved 24% (71%), which dropped to 15% (72%) in year 8.

Discussion

The ability of the model to discriminate incident cases of dementia implies that it can be a worthwhile tool to screen patients for trial recruitment and patient management.
Interest in and use of Fluence's SUBRE and Aspiral technologies continue to grow
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: December 2019

US-based provider of water and wastewater treatment systems Fluence Corp Ltd is seeing continued interest in its submerged MABR (SUBRE) and AspiralTM systems and growth in their use worldwide. This is particularly true in China, where recent activity concerning these technologies has featured prominently in news from the company, as this brief focus article reveals.
Screening ofClostridioides difficilecarriers in an urban academic medical center: Understanding implications of disease
Authors: Baron Sarah W. , Ostrowsky Belinda E. , Nori Priya , Drory David Y. , Levi Michael H. , Szymczak Wendy A. , Rinke Michael L. , Southern William N.
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Efforts to reduceClostridioides difficileinfection (CDI) have targeted transmission from patients with symptomaticC. difficile. However, many patients with theC. difficileorganism are carriers without symptoms who may serve as reservoirs for spread of infection and may be at risk for progression to symptomaticC. difficile. To estimate the prevalence ofC. difficilecarriage and determine the risk and speed of progression to symptomaticC. difficileamong carriers, we established a pilot screening program in a large urban hospital.

Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Setting:

An 800-bed, tertiary-care, academic medical center in the Bronx, New York.

Participants:

A sample of admitted adults without diarrhea, with oversampling of nursing facility patients.

Methods:

Perirectal swabs were tested by polymerase chain reaction forC. difficilewithin 24 hours of admission, and patients were followed for progression to symptomaticC. difficile. Development of symptomaticC. difficilewas compared amongC. difficilecarriers and noncarriers using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results:

Of the 220 subjects, 21 (9.6%) wereC. difficilecarriers, including 10.2% of the nursing facility residents and 7.7% of the community residents (P= .60). Among the 21C. difficilecarriers, 8 (38.1%) progressed to symptomaticC. difficile, but only 4 (2.0%) of the 199 noncarriers progressed to symptomaticC. difficile(hazard ratio, 23.9; 95% CI, 7.2–79.6;P< .0001).

Conclusions:

Asymptomatic carriage ofC. difficileis prevalent among admitted patients and confers a significant risk of progression to symptomatic CDI. Screening for asymptomatic carriers may represent an opportunity to reduce CDI.
A family empowerment strategy is associated with increased healthcare worker hand hygiene in a resource-limited setting
Authors: Campbell Jeffrey I. , Pham Thanh Thuy , Le Trang , Dang Thi Thu Huong , Chandonnet Celeste J. , Truong Thi Hoa , Duong Hao , Nguyen Duc Duat , Le Thi Huyen , Tran Thi Ha , Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh , Ho Thi Minh Than , Le Kien Ngai , Pollack Todd M. , Sandora Thomas J.
Published: December 2019

Background:

Guidelines recommend empowering patients and families to remind healthcare workers (HCWs) to perform hand hygiene (HH). The effectiveness of empowerment tools for patients and their families in Southeast Asia is unknown.

Methods:

We performed a prospective study in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a Vietnamese pediatric referral hospital. With family and HCW input, we developed a visual tool for families to prompt HCW HH. We used direct observation to collect baseline HH data. We then enrolled families to receive the visual tool and education on its use while continuing prospective collection of HH data. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of HH in baseline and implementation periods.

Results:

In total, 2,014 baseline and 2,498 implementation-period HH opportunities were observed. During the implementation period, 73 families were enrolled. Overall, HCW HH was 46% preimplementation, which increased to 73% in the implementation period (P < .001). The lowest HH adherence in both periods occurred after HCW contact with patient surroundings: 16% at baseline increased to 24% after implementation. In multivariable analyses, the odds of HCW HH during the implementation period were significantly higher than baseline (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.54–3.41; P < .001) after adjusting for observation room, HCW type, time of observation (weekday business hours vs evening or weekend), and HH moment.

Conclusions:

The introduction of a visual empowerment tool was associated with significant improvement in HH adherence among HCWs in a Vietnamese PICU. Future research should explore acceptability and barriers to use of similar tools in low- and middle-income settings.
Imperial Maps of Xinjiang and Their Readers in Qing China, 1660–1860
Authors: Zhang Xue
Published: December 2019

This article explores information management in the Qing government, and the challenges confronted by the Qing authorities, through the prism of imperial maps of Xinjiang. To ensure that newly gathered geographical knowledge of Xinjiang was usable for the emperor and senior officials, technocrats and artisans in the Imperial Household Department collaborated with the Jesuits and border officials to produce maps that materialized it. Because of their utility in military campaigns and everyday governance, these maps were carefully maintained by the Imperial Household Department, which discreetly distributed them to a small coterie of Manchu and Mongol statesmen. Nevertheless, information leakage from the lower echelons of the bureaucracy challenged the department's monopoly and popularized knowledge of Xinjiang among the Han literati.