bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Starter Cultures (Organisms) in Fermentation of Cassava (Manihot esculenta), Used for Fufu Production
Authors: Nkeiruka Dike-Ndudim Joy , Chikwendu Nwachukwu Rosemary , Chidozie Amah Henry , Winners Ndubueze Chizaram , Chinecherem Ndudim Victor
Published: April 2022

Fufu is a traditional Nigerian fermented cassava food product. Due to the production of objectionable odor, fermentation was done in the Laboratory using improved techniques. Sweet white, Yellow, bitter cassava varieties were used. Since a wet fufu mash is a product of the activities of various microorganisms, this study was aimed at determining the contents of the cassava mash for several days. The microbial, chemical and sensory changes during the fermentation were determined. Microbial counts were higher as retting progressed, but reduced at completion. Heterotrophic bacterial counts decreased from 2.65-2.46Log10CFU/mL, for sweet variety, but increased from 1.95-2.27 Log10CFU/mL for bitter variety; 2.28-2.59 Log10CFU/mL for yellow variety on Nutrient agar. Coliform counts decreased from 2.56 to 2.28Log10CFU/mL for sweet variety, but increased from 2.32 - 2.55Log10 CFU/mL for bitter variety, from 2.30 - 2.49Log10 CFU/ mL, for yellow variety on MacConkey agar and from 1.91 - 2.41Log10CFU/mL, for sweet variety, from day 2; 1.91- 2.23 Log10CFU/Ml, for bitter variety, from day 3), and 2.10 – 2.32 Log10CFU/mL (for yellow variety from day 3) for Fungi on SDA. The dominant Starter organisms were a mixed population of heterotrophic bacteria, Bacillus spp, yeasts and mould. Protein content of the sweet variety increased from 0.3- 5.25% and the yellow variety from 0.2- 4.375%, their cyanide contents reduced from 2.7- 0.01 mg/kg and from 4.3 - 0.04 mg/kg respectively, showing loss of hydrogen cyanide. Cyanide content of bitter variety remained 10.6mg/kg at the end of fermentation, since there was neither retting nor loss of hydrogen cyanide. The pH of the product reduced as the fermentation progressed. Sensory evaluation of the fermented samples accepted all the samples, but liked most, the sweet white variety. The bitter variety was not assessed because it did not ferment even on day 5. These organisms can be used as starter cultures to improve the protein content of fufu, and reduce the cyanide content to minimal level which makes it safer for consumption.
Impact of Soil Salinity on Citrus: A Review
Authors: Darshan Devi , Prasad Pandey Hanuman , Pathak R. K. , Pandey S. B. , Singh Vipnesh
Published: April 2022

Citrus fruits are one of the most important fruit crops in the world. However, these are vulnerable to a variety of environmental stresses, including drought, over watering (water logging), extreme temperatures (cold, frost, and heat), salinity, and mineral toxicity. Above these factors, salinity is the one of the most significant. Because of its hyperosmotic and hyperionic effects on the soil rhizosphere, salinity is an abiotic factor that has detrimental effect of reducing plant development and yield. Citrus is a salt-susceptible crop as compared to other fruit crops, because citrus development and yield are dramatically reduced under salt stress conditions. There are a variety of approaches that can be used to mitigate the harmful effects of salinity, including alternative irrigation and the selection of salt-resistant root stocks. This review will therefore, concentrate on the influence of soil salinity on citrus production and feasible mitigation techniques to reduce production losses.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Their Transmission Risk Factors among Inmates of Naivasha and Kisii Prisons in Kenya
Authors: Mogendi Ruth , Kamau Lucy , Muhoho Ngethe
Published: April 2022

Parasites live off a host to survive where they grow, reproduce and invade organ systems therefore causing parasitic infections. Among the ten most common parasitic infections according to world health organization are hookworm, ascariasis, amoebiasis and trichuriasis. Parasitic infections in endemic countries shorten lives and impose a lifelong burden on the potential for advancement. Limited studies have been carried out to establish the prevalence of intestinal parasites among neglected and institutionalized groups of the population such as prison inmates which justified the need to establish the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) among inmates of Kisii and Naivasha prisons in Kenya. A cross-sectional study was used. Four hundred inmates after sampling, provided stool samples for analysis. Formal-ether concentration techniques was used for identification of helminths eggs and cysts of protozoa while direct wet mount using saline and iodine was used for microscopic examination of loose stool for identification of trophozoites of protozoa. Data on the predisposing factors were collected using structured questionnaire and focus group discussion. Chi Square test was used to determine the association between age groups and sex while odds ratio was used to determine the association of personal hygiene and infection by intestinal parasites. The prevalence rate of intestinal parasites was 84(20.84%) with Kisii prison having a prevalence of 37(20.04%) while Naivasha prison having 47(21.56%). Intestinal protozoa infections were higher 50(12.4%) than helminthes 28(10.4%). Intestinal protozoa identified were Entamoeba histolytica 30(7.4%) and Giardia lamblia 20(4.9%) while the intestinal helminthes identified were Ascaris lumbricoides 22(5.5%), Strongyloides stercolaris 2(0.5%) and hookworms 4(1.0%). Chi square test showed that significantly more females were infected than males (χ² = 12.53, P=0.016, df = 2) as well as inmates of 18-27 years in both prisons (χ² = 9.36, P=0.007, df = 28). Correlation coefficient indicated that the infections increased with lack of footwear (OR 2.68, Cl 0.94-3.41), failures to hand wash before meals (OR 2.88, Cl 0.93-3.36) and after toilet use (OR 2.19, Cl 1.02-4.44). Provision of health education and personal hygiene and sanitation, more pit latrines with enough water points for hand washing as well as sufficient footwear is recommended to reduce the IPIs in the prisons. This can be facilitated by the officers-in-charge in collaboration with the Ministry of health.
Correlation of CT scan Chest Severity Score with Serum Ferritin in COVID-19 Disease: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Madhavi Latha Naramalli , Saseekala Angirekula , Atti Lalitsiri
Published: April 2022

Background: COVID-19 disease is due to SARS-CoV-2 Virus with its rapid progression causing severe and fatal complications like Pneumonia.  CT scan chest and inflammatory biomarkers like serum ferritin, helpful in screening, clinical management and prevention of serious complications of the Covid-19 disease are to be investigated and assessed.

Aims and Objectives: This study is aimed to assess the association between the CT Scan Chest severity score and the Serum Ferritin levels in COVID -19 disease in predicting clinical severity with categorization into different risk groups to identify patients at risk of fatal complications to ensure optimal resource allocation.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study in a Govt. Medical college attached Tertiary care hospital for COVID –19 disease in Andhra Pradesh from 1st to 31st October 2020 included 76 patients of Covid-19 disease of > 20 years of age admitted with laboratory confirmed RT PCR diagnosis of Covid – 19 disease. Data was collected from the hospital records of the patients on demography, radiological imaging of CT scan chest severity score and laboratory measurements of Serum Ferritin levels and tabulated with the results expressed as mean ± SD.  The disease severity was classified as mild (1-8), moderate (9-15) and severe (16-25)  based on CT scan chest Severity scoring. Then the association between CT scan chest severity score and serum ferritin levels was studied, assessed and  correlated.

Results: Study data of a total of 76 COVID –19 positive patients was analysed and summarized. 54 patients (71%) were Males and 22 patients (29 %) were Females. Mean age (Years) of the patients was 52 ±13.2 years with males and females as 53.11±13.45 and 50.18 ±11.71, respectively. Based on the 25 point CT scan chest severity score, 50 % (38 patients) were in the mild grade (1 -8) with a mean ±SD of 4.74±2.44, 43.42% (33 patients) were in the moderate grade (9 - 15) with a mean ±SD of 11.31 ± 2.06 and 6.58% (5 patients) were in the severe grade (16 -25) with a mean ±SD of 18.4 ± 3.29. The mean ±SD values of Serum Ferritin were 261.22±377.12ng/ml, 431.14 ±284.69ng/ml and 870.8±928.06ng/ml with mild, moderate and severe grade of CT chest severity score respectively. Statistically significant correlation was found between between the CT Chest Severity Score and Serum Ferritin levels.

Conclusion: Serum ferritin levels were observed to be high in the CT scan chest positive group and so the serum ferritin levels measured at the time of admission predict radiological severity. This positive correlation between the CT Chest Severity Score and Serum Ferritin levels can predict clinical severity of Covid -19 disease with categorization into different risk groups helping in the clinical management, prevention of serious complications and disease outcome.
Medical Intern’s Knowledge Attitude and Practice towards Specializing in Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Oparaodu U. A. , Uzosike T. C.
Published: April 2022

Background: Medical doctors after graduating are expected to have a year of internship in an approved training institution. During the time of internship, the medical interns are referred to as House Officers who go through different clinical rotations which may alter their interest in a field.

Aim: The aim is to determine the area of interest in specialization by House Officers of Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) and determine their general knowledge, attitude, and practice of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Surgery.

Method: This is a facility-based cross-sectional study design. The study population was House Officers in RSUTH. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to obtain information from 150 participants after obtaining ethical approval for the study. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25. Descriptive frequency analysis was done for all variables. Chi-square test was used to assess the association between socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge about ENT Surgery

Result: The most common age range was 20-29 years 86 (57.3%), with equal gender distribution. The research highlighted good knowledge of ENT surgery among 110 (73.3%). Months of practice as interns and being married were significantly associated with good knowledge of ENT, p<0.05. Majority of the interns desire to specialize in ENT Surgery 24(16%) and Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Conclusion: The findings show a growing interest in ENT specialization among interns. Increasing the exposure of interns to this area of medical specialization can enhance their knowledge and interest to specialize in ENT surgery.
The Impact of Age on Malaria Prevalence among COVID-19 Patients and Healthy Volunteers with some Associated Symptoms in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Orevaoghene Onosakponome, Evelyn , Ugochukwu Nyenke, Clement , Rhoda Nwalozie, , Asikiya Huldah Hanson,
Published: April 2022

Background: The co-morbidity of malaria and COVID-19 is a growing public health concern since the outbreak of covid-19 especially in low and middle income countries due to poor healthcare facilities, system, personnel manpower and financial resources. It is generally known that age has a significant impact on malaria vulnerability, but with emerging concern on malaria and covid-19 co-infection, age based prevalence are among many studied characteristics of malaria prevalence in covid-19 patients especially in malaria endemic areas.

Aim: The study was aimed at evaluating the impact of age in the prevalence of malaria and COVID-19 co-infection as well as some associated symptoms in Rivers State, Nigeria.

Methodology: The study was a cross-sectional study conducted among 600 covid-19 patients admitted in Rivers State Covid-19 Treatment Centre, Eleme. Consenting subjects were randomly selected and were classified into three groups based on age; 0-25yrs, 26-50yrs and >50yrs. Blood samples were collected using venipuncture technique and blood was collected in EDTA bottles. Thick film was prepared was stained using Giemsa for malaria microscopy. All data generated were analyzed statistically using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square test with a P<0.05 considered significant.

Result: Results showed that total malaria prevalence was 70.2 while on age group classifications, the prevalence was 100% in all age groups but healthy control group had less prevalence. This study has shown that prevalence of malaria among covid-19 subjects was significantly higher in all age groups (p<0.05). All symptoms were significantly associated with age at P<0.05; individuals >50years and 26 – 50years experienced more symptoms among COVID-19 patients and healthy volunteers respectively (P<0.05).

Conclusion: This study has shown that malarial prevalence is absolutely higher among covid-19 subjects and the level of prevalence does not discriminate among age groups. However, more research work is needed to fully understand the relationship between malaria and COVID-19 co-infection due to the novel nature of the disease globally and their shared clinical symptoms.
Perception of HIV/AIDS among Tertiary Education Students in the Tamale Metropolis and Their Willingness to Take the HIV Test
Authors: Emmanuel Mensah Calvin , Mbiyieba John , Adiyaga Wezena Cletus
Published: April 2022

Aim: The study assessed the perception of HIV/AIDS among students in tertiary education institutions in northern Ghana and their willingness to take the HIV test.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Tamale Metropolis from September 2020 to June 2021.

Methodology: A convenience sampling technique was employed to select 374 students aged 15-30 years. Data from participants was collected using a standardized structure questionnaire and analyzed on Epi Info version 7. Cross tabulation was used to estimate the association between outcome variables and independent variables.

Results: Almost all participants (366; 93.61% [95% CI: 90.73 – 95. 63]) were aware of HIV/AIDS, having acquired information about the disease mostly from a health worker. A very high proportion of the respondents (346; 88.49% [95% CI: 84.95 – 91.29]) were also aware of the modes of transmission of HIV, with 64.41% of participants identifying unprotected sexual intercourse as a major mode of HIV transmission. Though aware of how HIV is transmitted, almost half (46.21%) of sexually active participants did not use a condom in their last sexual intercourse. More than half (221; 56.52% [95% CI: 51.57 – 61.35]) of respondents had never heard of any HIV/AIDS support groups in their schools or communities. Though a majority (58.57%) of respondents were aware of free HCT in the country, the majority (207; 52.94% [95% CI: 47.99 – 57.84]) of the respondents had never taken the HIV test. Close to half (167; 42.71% [95% CI: 37.90 – 47.66]) of respondents had no plans to take the HIV test in the future.

Conclusion: Our results revealed the need to intensify HIV/AIDS education, especially among the youth, emphasizing the increasing risk of HIV infection, importance of regular HIV tests for sexually active persons and the use of protection during casual sex.
Improvement of Three Phase Induction Motor Performance Using Voltage and Frequency Speed Control Techniques
Authors: George Okonkwo Chibuzor , Uju Isidore A. , Nwajuonye Raymond Onyeka
Published: April 2022

Inductions motors are the most commonly used electric motors because of their robustness, durability, reliability and low cost, and essentially lack the ability to run at variable speed operation. However, the first DC motors were applied to most of electric drives. The advent of power electronics has drastically made a lot of improvement, where alternating current drive is used to control and run the performance of induction motor. This research work presents the use of voltage and Frequency control technique to improve the performance of speed control of three phase 4-pole induction motor. Controlling the speed of motor using traditional method such as controlling the supply voltage ,changing the stator pole and others incurs running motor at full speed, speed instability, and the efficiency of the motor drop when motor speed is varied but the voltage and frequency ratio method of speed control solves this problem .A model and simulation in MATLAB for various method of speed control was analysed with constant voltage and frequency method showing much improvement on electromagnetic torque and the speed characteristic of the induction motor compared to other method such as change in stator  resistance, rotor resistance, number of poles, stator leakage resistance and others. Varying the line frequency at a maintained constant 8V/Hz V/F ratio and the effect of the torque-speed characteristics performance of the three phase 4-pole induction motor for line frequencies were investigated: (40Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 70Hz, and 80Hz). The result shows that as the line frequency increases, the torque decreases and the speed increases (or slip decreases), and for a line frequency of 40Hz, the torque observed is 43.6Nm while the rotor speed is 1076rpm. But for a line frequency of 80Hz, the peak torque was observed at 22Nm while the corresponding rotor speed was 2152rpm, thereby improving the speed control performances of the three phase 4-pole induction motor and its voltage frequency characteristics.
Evaluation of Microbiological Quality of Water, Sediment and Soil Characteristics in Okrika Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ibinabo Ogolo , Ogbonna D. N. , Abam T. K. S.
Published: April 2022

Water is the most important resource on earth and safe drinking water is essential to sustain life. Most rural communities do not treat their water before consumption. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of water, sediment and soil characteristic in Okrika LGA, Nigeria. Samples were collected using sterile bottles from boreholes, hand-dug wells, surface water, sediments and soils using standard methods and analysed accordingly. Results show that Total Heterotrophic Bacterial Count (THBC) ranged from  in Kalio-Ama to  at Okari-Ama. Total Fecal count (TFC) ranged from 0 to  at Isaka Town. Total Coliform Count (TCC) ranged from 0 to  at Ogan-Ama. Total Salmonella Shigella Count (TSSC) ranged from 0 to  in Ogan-Ama. Total Vibio Count (TVC) ranged from 0 to  at Kalio-Ama. The most prominent bacterial isolates from all the stations are of the genera such as Bacillus, Staphylococcus, Escherichia Coli, Micrococcus, Kiebsiella, Pseudomonas, Vibrio, Aeromonas, Serratia and Alcaligenes which were isolated    across the samples with Bacillus as more frequent with 50%. In the dry season, bacterial isolates were 100% susceptible to Gentamycin and Ofloxacin and 100% resistance to Augumentin, Cefuroxime and Cefixime. In the wet season, isolates had 100% susceptibility to  Ciprooflozacin and 100% resistance to Cloxacin, Augmentin and Gentamicine. The result of this study poses a public health risk to consumers who use these sources of water for domestic purposes, recreation and treatments. Diseases like typhoid, cholera, polio, skin and lung infections are eminent.
Center CEO stresses need to focus on underlying causes
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: April 2022

When a patient goes to Sierra Tucson, there are all levels of care to choose from: inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient. Valerie Kading, Ph.D., CEO of the Arizona‐based treatment program, spoke to ADAW this month about how the program makes clinical decisions on where a patient should be.
Near‐Infrared, Self‐Powered and Polarization‐Sensitive Photodetector Based on GeSe–MoTe2 p–n Heterojunction
Authors: Zhang Nan , Wu Liangwei , Gao Wei , Zhao Qixiao , Huo Nengjie , Li Jingbo
Published: April 2022

Near‐infrared polarization‐sensitive photodetectors hold the advantages of capturing light signals with high performance while shielding stray light, endowing them the potential applications in target tracking, remote sensing, and computer vision. Here, a 2D polarization‐sensitive, self‐powered, and near‐infrared photodetector is constructed by vertically stacking multilayer p‐type GeSe on n‐type MoTe2. The type‐II energy band alignment and anisotropic crystalline structure of GeSe components allow an effective separation and transmission of polarized light excited carriers, enabling the capability of polarization‐sensitive and self‐powered photodetections. The device exhibits broadband spectral coverage from visible (405 nm) to near‐infrared (1310 nm) wavelength range. At zero bias and 808 nm light, the responsivity (R) and detectivity (D*) can reach 52 mA W–1 and 4.1 × 1011 Jones, respectively. Due to the extremely low dark current of several tens of fA, the photoswitching ratio can reach close to 106. More importantly, because of the strong in‐plane anisotropic orthogonal structure of GeSe, the polarization sensitivity can reach 5.4 under 635 nm polarized light illumination, outperforming the polarization‐sensitive photodetectors based on 2D anisotropic materials and heterostructures. This work provides an effective strategy of using anisotropic/isotropic GeSe/MoTe2 heterojunctions to realize self‐powered, near‐infrared, and polarization‐sensitive photodetectors with integrated angle‐resolved optoelectronic devices.
Gold Micropetals Self‐Assembled by Shadow‐Sphere Lithography for Optofluidic Control
Authors: Namura Kyoko , Hanai Shunya , Kondo Shuji , Kumar Samir , Suzuki Motofumi
Published: April 2022

The self‐assembly of gold micropetals and microfluidic control using their photothermal properties are demonstrated experimentally in this work. Gold micropetals are fabricated on a glass substrate using the shadow‐sphere lithography technique. Each micropetal consists of two areas with thin gold films of different thicknesses resulting in an inhomogeneous optical absorption distribution. The photothermal property of the micropetal results in the generation of a water vapor microbubble on the micropetal when the micropetal is immersed in degassed water and irradiated by a continuous wave laser. By applying a temperature gradient to the microbubble, Marangoni flow in the direction parallel to the substrate is successfully induced. The direction of the flow varies with the combination of the optical absorption distribution in the micropetal and the laser power. This variation can be explained by the position of the bubble on the micropetal and the resulting temperature gradient around the bubble. Controlling the position at which the bubble is generated on the micropetal is found to be important for controlling the flow direction. This technique allows microfluids to be pumped through the irradiation of light with a simple intensity distribution on spatially arranged micropetals.
Pull‐Pull Alkenes in the Aza‐Michael Reaction
Authors: Rulev Alexander Yu. , Tyumentsev Ilya A.
Published: April 2022

Aza‐Michael addition is known to be one of the most exploited reactions in organic chemistry. Taking into account the fact that each seventh reaction in pharmaceutical industry involves the formation of at least one C−N bond, it is not surprising that this reaction is especially valuable for the synthesis of bioactive compounds and drugs. Traditionally, only push‐pull alkenes are regarded as starting material for this reaction. The participation of pull‐pull alkenes as Michael acceptors is much less studied. The presence of two vicinal electron‐withdrawing groups makes them highly reactive in nucleophilic reactions especially with nitrogen‐centered nucleophiles. This feature allows them to be excellent building blocks in the synthesis of bioactive molecules and polyfunctional materials. The review considers the most important and sometimes unexpected results obtained over the last two decades on the conjugate addition of nitrogen nucleophiles to pull‐pull alkenes bearing various acceptor moieties (alkoxycarbonyl‐, carbonyl‐, formyl‐, cyano‐, trifluoromethyl‐ or nitro group) in various combinations.

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Pushing Lithium Cobalt Oxides to 4.7 V by Lattice‐Matched Interfacial Engineering
Authors: Yang Xuerui , Wang Chuanwei , Yan Pengfei , Jiao Tianpeng , Hao Jialiang , Jiang Yuyuan , Ren Fucheng , Zhang Wenguang , Zheng Jianming , Cheng Yong , Wang Xianshu , Yang Wen , Zhu Jianping , Pan Siyu , Lin Min , Zeng Leiying , Gong Zhengliang , Li Juntao , Yang Yong
Published: April 2022

The utilization of high‐voltage LiCoO2 is imperative to break the bottleneck of the practical energy density of lithium‐ion batteries. However, LiCoO2 suffers from severe structural and interfacial degradation at >4.55 V. Herein, a novel lattice‐matched LiCoPO4 coating is rationally designed for LiCoO2 which works at 4.6 V (vs Li/Li+) or above. This LiCoPO4 coating, derived by an in situ chemical reaction, grows epitaxially on LiCoO2 crystallite with strong bonding and complete coverage to LiCoO2, ensuring a stable cathode–electrolyte interface with fewer side reactions and alleviated intergranular cracking and phase collapse during repeated high‐voltage lithiation/delithiation processes. In addition, the formed strong covalent P–O tetrahedron configuration at the interface effectively decreases the surface oxygen activity of LiCoO2, further suppressing oxygen release and irreversible phase transition. Therefore, the LiCoPO4‐LiCoO2ǁLi cells display excellent capacity retention of 87% after 300 cycles at 4.6 V and stable operation at 4.6 V/55 °C or 4.7 V/30 °C. The strategy of lattice‐matching growth affords a new way to impact the development of high‐voltage LiCoO2 and beyond.
Decompensation of cardiorespiratory function and emergence of anemia during pregnancy in a case of mitochondrial myopathy, lactic acidosis, and sideroblastic anemia 2 with compound heterozygous YARS2 pathogenic variants
Authors: Rudaks Laura I. , Watson Eloise , Oboudiyat Carly , Kumar Kishore R. , Sullivan Patricia , Cowley Mark J. , Davis Ryan L. , Sue Carolyn M.
Published: April 2022

Myopathy, lactic acidosis, and sideroblastic anemia 2 (MLASA2) is an autosomal recessive mitochondrial disorder caused by pathogenic variants in YARS2. YARS2 variants confer heterogeneous phenotypes ranging from the full MLASA syndrome to a clinically unaffected state. Symptom onset is most common in the first decade of life but can occur in adulthood and has been reported following intercurrent illness. Early death can result from respiratory muscle weakness and cardiomyopathy. We report a case of MLASA2 with compound heterozygous YARS2 pathogenic variants; a known pathogenic nonsense variant [NM_001040436.3:c.98C>A (p.Ser33Ter)] and a likely pathogenic missense variant not previously associated with disease [NM_001040436.3:c.948G>T (p.Arg316Ser)]. The proband initially presented with a relatively mild phenotype of myopathy and lactic acidosis. During pregnancy, anemia emerged as an additional feature and in the postpartum period she experienced severe decompensation of cardiorespiratory function. This is the first reported case of pregnancy‐related complications in a patient with YARS2‐related mitochondrial disease. This case highlights the need for caution and careful counseling when considering pregnancy in mitochondrial disease, due to the risk of disease exacerbation and pregnancy complications.
The Mechanochemistry of Carboranes
Authors: Sha Ye , Zhou Zhou , Zhu Miao , Luo Zhenyang , Xu Enhua , Li Xiang , Yan Hong
Published: April 2022

We developedo‐carborane as a new mechanophore by showing that theo‐carborane cluster is the preferred scission site in chain‐centered polymers through ultrasonication mechanochemistry. Mechanistic studies are consistent with a predominately homolytic mechanism of chain scission. The mechanically generated monocarbaborane fragments are highly reactive toward alcohol nucleophiles. By contrast, carborane with a different regiochemistry (m‐carborane) maintained its high mechanical stability. DFT simulations provide insights into the origins of carborane's mechanical lability. This fundamental research provides a new stimulus for carborane cage activation.
Quantitative evaluation of glycan‐binding specificity of recombinant concanavalin A produced in lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Authors: Oinam Lalhaba , Hayashi Ryoma , Hiemori Keiko , Kiyoi Kayo , Sage‐Ono Kimiyo , Miura Kenji , Ono Michiyuki , Tateno Hiroaki
Published: April 2022

Concanavalin A (ConA), a mannose (Man)‐specific leguminous lectin isolated from the jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis) seed extracts, was discovered over a century ago. Although ConA has been extensively applied in various life science research, recombinant mature ConA expression has not been fully established. Here, we aimed to produce recombinant ConA (rConA) in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) using an Agrobacterium tumefaciens‐mediated transient expression system. rConA could be produced as a fully active form from soluble fractions of lettuce leaves and purified by affinity chromatography. From 12 g wet weight of lettuce leaves, 0.9 mg rConA could be purified. The glycan‐binding properties of rConA were then compared with that of the native ConA isolated from jack bean using glycoconjugate microarray and frontal affinity chromatography. rConA demonstrated a glycan‐binding specificity similar to nConA. Both molecules bound to N‐glycans containing a terminal Man residue. Consistent with previous reports, terminal Manα1‐6Man was found to be an essential unit for the high‐affinity binding of rConA and nConA, while bisecting GlcNAc diminished the binding of rConA and nConA to Manα1‐6Man‐terminated N‐glycans. These results demonstrate that the fully active rConA could be produced using the A. tumefaciens‐mediated transient expression system and used as a recombinant substitute for nConA.
Foam fractionation methods in aerobic fermentation processes
Authors: Oraby Amira , Weickardt Isabell , Zibek Susanne
Published: April 2022

Inherently occurring foam formation during aerobic fermentation of surface‐active compounds can be exploited by fractionating the foam. This also serves as the first downstream processing step for product concentration and is used for in situ product recovery. Compared to other foam prevention methods, it does not interfere with fermentation parameters or alter broth composition. Nevertheless, parameters affecting the foaming behavior are complex. Therefore, the specific foam fractionation designs need to be engineered for each fermentation individually. This still hinders a widespread industrial application. However, few available commercial approaches demonstrate the applicability of foam columns on an industrial scale. This systematic literature review highlights relevant design aspects and process demands that need to be considered for an application to fermentations and proposes a classification of foam fractionation designs and methods. It further analyses substance‐specific characteristics associated with foam fractionation. Finally, solutions for current challenges are presented, and future perspectives are discussed.
Adductor longus: An anatomical study to better understand groin pain
Authors: Kato Takuya , Taniguchi Keigo , Kodesho Taiki , Nakao Gakuto , Yokoyama Yu , Saito Yuhei , Katayose Masaki
Published: April 2022

We investigated the shear modulus–passive force relationship in the hip adductor longus (AL) muscles of human cadavers and explored the effect of muscle architecture on the elastic properties of the AL muscle using shear wave elastography (SWE). Nine AL muscles were harvested from a soft, embalmed cadaver. The AL muscles were affixed to a custom‐built device comprising two clamps, a pulley, and a cable to provide passive loads, which were increased from 0 to 600 g in 60‐g increments. The shear modulus of the AL muscle was measured in the proximal (Pro), middle (Mid), and distal (Dis) regions. The masses and anatomical cross‐sectional areas (ACSAs) of the AL muscles were measured. The shear modulus‐passive load relationship of each tested muscle region was analyzed by fitting a least‐squares regression line. Moreover, the rate of increase in the shear modulus per unit load (s) was calculated. The shear modulus and passive force were linearly correlated for all AL muscles in each region (p < 0.01). The mean coefficients of determination (R2) for Pro, Mid, and Dis were 0.989, 0.986, and 0.982, respectively. The rate of increase in the shear modulus per unit load significantly correlated with the reciprocal of the muscle mass (r = 0.77, p = 0.02) and ACSA (r = 0.43, p = 0.03). Shear wave elastography can be used as an indirect measure of passive force in any region of the AL muscle. Additionally, the rate of increase in the shear modulus per unit load could be associated with muscle architectural parameters.
Bioactive Scalarane‐Type Sesterterpenoids from Marine Sources
Authors: Yu Hao‐Bing , Chen Hai‐Yan , Duan Song , Zhu Yu‐Ping , Hu Bo , He Ying , Cheng Si‐Tong , Jiao Bing‐Hua , Liu Xiao‐Yu
Published: April 2022

Scalarane‐type sesterterpenoids have received considerable attention in the scientific literature due to their diverse carbon skeletons and various biological activities and pharmacological properties. Among all these derivatives are commonly isolated from marine sponges and are occasionally derived from shell‐less mollusks, such as nudibranchs. This review comprehensively discusses the marine‐derived natural sources that give rise to these scalarane‐type sesterterpenoids, providing the names, their chemical structures, biological properties, with emphasis on anticancer activity and literature references related to these metabolites. A critical summary of the 221 compounds generated from January 2010 up to December 2021 for their potential as anticancer agents is presented.
Congenital primary obstructed megaureter presenting as inguinal hernia in an infant
Authors: Wishahi Mohamed
Published: April 2022

A 4‐month‐old boy presented with left inguinal swelling, and the examination was notable for an inguinal hernia; ultrasonography and CT revealed that the hernia content was hugely dilated ureter of ureteral‐inguinal hernia caused by primary obstructed megaureter. Imaging of pediatric inguinal hernia elucidates contents, etiology, and guide for proper surgery.
Relationship between patients’ characteristics and efficacy of calcimimetics for primary hyperparathyroidism in the elderly
Authors: Yamamoto Koichiro , Nakano Yasuhiro , Tokumasu Kazuki , Honda Hiroyuki , Hasegawa Kou , Sato Asuka , Ogawa Hiroko , Obika Mikako , Hanayama Yoshihisa , Otsuka Fumio
Published: April 2022

Calcimimetic treatment has been reported to be effective for primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). Nine elderly PHPT patients who had been treated with calcimimetics were retrospectively analyzed. It was found that calcimimetics can reduce elevated serum calcium levels in elderly PHPT patients with low femoral DEXA %YAM and low urinary cAMP levels.
Enantioselective Cytotoxicity of Chiral Diphosphine Ruthenium(II) Complexes Against Cancer Cells
Authors: Lovison Denise , Alessi Dario , Allegri Lorenzo , Baldan Federica , Ballico Maurizio , Damante Giuseppe , Galasso Marilisa , Guardavaccaro Daniele , Ruggieri Silvia , Melchior Andrea , Veclani Daniele , Nardon Chiara , Baratta Walter
Published: April 2022

The chiral cationic complex [Ru(η1‐OAc)(CO)((R,R)‐Skewphos)(phen)]OAc (2R), isolated from reaction of [Ru(η1‐OAc)(η2‐OAc)(R,R)‐Skewphos)(CO)] (1R) with phen, reacts with NaOPiv and KSAc affording [RuX(CO)((R,R)‐Skewphos)(phen)]Y (X=Y=OPiv 3R; X=SAc, Y=OAc 4R). The corresponding enantiomers 2S‐4S have been obtained from 1S containing (S,S)‐Skewphos. Reaction of 2R and 2S with (S)‐cysteine and NaPF6 at pH=9 gives the diastereoisomers [Ru((S)‐Cys)(CO)(PP)(phen)]PF6 (PP=(R,R)‐Skewphos 2R‐Cys; (S,S)‐Skewphos 2S‐Cys). The DFT energetic profile for 2R with (S)‐cysteine in H2O indicates that aquo and hydroxo species are involved in formation of 2R‐Cys. The stability of the ruthenium complexes in 0.9 % w/v NaCl solution, PBS and complete DMEM medium, as well as their n‐octanol/water partition coefficient (logP), have been evaluated. The chiral complexes show high cytotoxic activity against SW1736, 8505 C, HCT‐116 and A549 cell lines with EC50 values of 2.8–0.04 μM. The (R,R)‐Skewphos derivatives show higher cytotoxicity compared to their enantiomers, 4R (EC50=0.04 μM) being 14 times more cytotoxic than 4S against the anaplastic thyroid cancer 8505 C cell line.
Copper‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydrosilylation of gem‐Difluorocyclopropenes Leading to a Stereochemical Study of the Silylated gem‐Difluorocyclopropanes
Authors: Sekine Keisuke , Akaishi Dai , Konagaya Kakeru , Ito Shigekazu
Published: April 2022

Optically active cyclopropanes have been widely investigated especially from the views of pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries, and substituting one of the methylenes with the difluoromethylene unit should be promising for developing novel biologically relevant compounds and functional materials. In this paper, the copper‐catalyzed enantioselective hydrosilylation of gem‐difluorocyclopropenes to provide the corresponding chiral gem‐difluorocyclopropanes is presented. The use of copper(I) chloride, chiral ligands including bidentate BINAPs and monodentate phosphoramidites, and silylborane Me2PhSi‐Bpin accompanying sodium tert‐butoxide in methanol was appropriate for the enantioselective hydrosilylation of the strained C=C double bond, and the resultant chiral difluorinated three‐membered ring was unambiguously characterized. Subsequent activation of the silyl groups in enantio‐enriched gem‐difluorocyclopropanes showed substantial reduction of the enantiopurity, indicating cleavage of the distal C−C bond leading to the transient acyclic intermediates.
A Composite of Two Dimensional GeSe2/Nitrogen‐Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide for Enhanced Capacitive Lithium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Han Lijing , Zhao Andi , Tang Jing , Wei Qiaohua , Wei Mingdeng
Published: April 2022

A composite of two‐dimensional (2D) GeSe2 nanosheets dispersed on N‐doped reduced graphene oxide (GeSe2/N‐rGO) is fabricated via a simple hydrothermal method combined with post‐selenization process. The high electronic conductivity and the substantial void spaces of the wrinkled N‐rGO can improve the electrical conductivity of the active material and accommodate the volume evolution of GeSe2 nanosheets during the (de)lithiation processes, while GeSe2 nanosheets can reduce ion diffusion length effectively. Meanwhile, the unique layered structure is beneficial to the contact of the active material and electrolyte, and the reversibility of conversion reaction has also been improved. Furthermore, kinetics analysis reveals a pseudocapacitance‐dominated Li+‐storage mechanism at high rates. In‐situ X‐ray diffraction analysis discloses that the conversion reaction has played a certain part in Li+‐storage. Thus, the GeSe2/N‐rGO composite delivers excellent rate capability and good long‐term stability with a high reversible capacity of 711.0 mA h g−1 after 2000 cycles at 1 A g−1.
Novel Thermal Decomposition Method for the Synthesis of Iron‐doped SnS2 Nanoparticles and Studies on their Peroxidase‐like Activity
Authors: Lather Reena , Jeevanandam Pethaiyan
Published: April 2022

Iron‐doped SnS2 nanoparticles (Sn1‐xFexS2) have been synthesized by a novel thermal decomposition method. Phase analysis was done using powder XRD. FE‐SEM and TEM studies show flake‐like morphology for iron doped SnS2 nanoparticles. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy results demonstrate blue shift of band gap of Sn1‐xFexS2 nanoparticles with respect to pure SnS2 nanoparticles. M−H measurements of iron doped SnS2 nanoparticles at 300 K and 2 K show weak ferromagnetic behaviour when x=0.10 and 0.15. When x=0.20, paramagnetic behaviour at 300 K and superparamagnetic behaviour at 2 K are observed. ZFC‐FC measurements were also carried out for the iron doped SnS2 nanoparticles. The Sn1‐xFexS2 nanoparticles were used as catalyst for peroxidase‐like activity and for the detection of H2O2.
Visualizing a Single‐Crystal‐to‐Single‐Crystal [2+2] Photodimerization through its Lattice Dynamics: An Experimental and Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Giunchi Andrea , Pandolfi Lorenzo , Salzillo Tommaso , Brillante Aldo , Della Valle Raffaele G. , d'Agostino Simone , Venuti Elisabetta
Published: April 2022

In homogeneous solid‐state reactions, the single‐crystal nature of the starting material remains unchanged, and the system evolves seamlessly through a series of solid solutions of reactant and product. Among [2+2] photodimerizations of cinnamic acid derivatives in the solid state, those involving salts of the 4‐aminocinnamic acid have been recognized to proceed homogeneously in a “single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal” fashion by X‐ray diffraction techniques. Here the bromide salt of this compound class is taken as a model system in a Raman spectroscopy study at low wavelengths, to understand how such a mechanism defines the trend of the crystal lattice vibrations during the reaction. Vibrational mode calculations, based on dispersion corrected DFT simulations of the crystal lattices involved in the transformation, have assisted the interpretation of the experiments. Such an approach has allowed us to clarify the spectral signatures and to establish a correlation between the dynamics of the monomer and dimer systems in a process where chemical progress and crystal structural changes are demonstrated to occur simultaneously.
Envision executive functioning as a distinct paradigm applying across multiple disabilities
Authors: Bedrossian Louise
Published: April 2022

Psychologists and psychiatrists have been studying goal‐oriented cognitive abilities since the 1970s when Karl Pribram coined the term “executive functioning.” He determined that the brain's prefrontal cortex largely mediates these functions and sparked new understanding of and interest in cognition. Through development and promotion of instructional and learning strategies, the term became popular among psychologists and educators.
Silver‐Catalyzed Nucleophilic Deoxydifluoromethylthiolation of Activated Aliphatic Alcohols with BT−SCF2H
Authors: Tironi Matteo , Hopkinson Matthew N.
Published: April 2022

Deoxygenative conversion of alcohols into difluoromethylthioethers is reported using 2‐((difluoromethyl)thio)‐3‐methylbenzo[d]thiazol‐3‐ium triflate (BT−SCF2H) as a source of −SCF2H anions. The presence of silver(I) triflate as a catalyst was found to be crucial for stabilizing the in situ‐generated anion, while the concomitant formation of a reactive 2‐(alkoxy)benzothiazolium electrophile likely ensures a fast onward substitution reaction, avoiding the build‐up of −SCF2H. To the best of our knowledge, this process represents the first report of a direct nucleophilic substitution reaction with −SCF2H and delivers products containing the medicinally relevant difluoromethylthio motif in a single step from widely available alcohols.
Synthesis of Indolyl‐1,3‐dienes from β‐Sulphonyl Aldehydes through One‐Pot Sequential Brønsted Acid/Base Catalysis
Authors: Karan Ganesh , Sahu Samrat , Sudan Maji Modhu
Published: April 2022

Introduction of a 1,3‐diene moiety at the C3‐position of pyrrole and indole bearing various aliphatic as well as aromatic functional groups with good stereoselectivity remains a challenging task. Keeping the synthetic applicability in mind, an eccentric strategy is developed to synthesize 1,3‐dienyl pyrroles and indoles from unprotected pyrroles and indoles employing β‐sulphonyl aldehyde as a dienylating agent. This method is developed by using a one‐pot sequential Brønsted acid/base catalysis strategy. The nucleophilicity of indole is transmitted through the conjugation to eliminate the sulfonyl groups in a step‐wise manner. Further, this developed protocol was extended to the incorporation of a 1,3,5‐triene moiety at the C3‐position of indoles through unprecedented successive three sulfonyl group elimination. As an application of this strategy, a Diels−Alder reaction and hydrothiolation of 1,3‐diene were demonstrated.
Impact of human intervention structures on the rivers: An investigation of the spatiotemporal variation of grain size in the Tista River, eastern Himalayas
Authors: Ghosh Kausik , Chakraborty Tapan
Published: April 2022

In order to investigate the effect of intervention structures like dams and barrage on the sediment grain size distribution, we examined a ~75 km stretch of the Tista River in the foothill alluvial plain of the eastern Himalayas. However, studies on the impact of dams on streamflow and sediment in the Himalayan rivers are constrained due to inadequate historical gauge data. Therefore, we employed a simple method to track the initial formation of some of the existing river landforms that formed before the dam/barrage operations from yearly satellite images (1987–2017) for in situ sediment sample collection. Hence, the collected sediment grain sizes analysis is used here as a proxy to comprehend the pre‐, syn‐ and post‐dam river sediment‐transport pattern. We have grouped 23 landforms into three temporal clusters: (i) those formed before 1997, earlier than the dams/barrage interventions (TOL); (ii) formed between 1998 and 2010 during the upstream dam construction (TML) and (iii) formed after 2010 (TNL) when upstream dams and the barrage were fully operational. A total of 116 sediment samples from these landforms indicate the overall grain size reduction for TML and TNL sediment due to reservoir sequestration of coarser grains. In comparison, the coarsest TOL sediment with downstream fining trend represents the pristine river condition. The coarsening trend with a poor correlation coefficient of TML is primarily assigned to partial trapping of the coarse bedload and massive sediment generation by the upstream under‐construction dams, resulting in the downstream erosion of the riverbed and transport of the coarser bedload further down. Similarly, post‐dam sediment trapping and controlled flow were responsible for the weaker trend with a distinctly finer size of TNL. The historical satellite images and data on streamflow and suspended sediment reveal that contemporary river behaviour is consistent with the earlier interpretation.
Inhibition of PDK1 enhances radiosensitivity and reverses epithelial–mesenchymal transition in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Wei , Li Lingling , Guo Ergang , Zhou Haiting , Ming Jun , Sun Lu , Hu Guoqing , Zhang Linli
Published: April 2022

Background

Radioresistance challenges the clinical outcomes of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The 3‐phosphoinositide‐dependent protein kinase 1 (PDK1) is a crucial kinase of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway which has been implicated in the process of radioresistance. However, the role of PDK1 in NPC remains largely unclear.

Methods

The expression of PDK1 was determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The effects of RNA interference and pharmacologic inhibitor of PDK1 in combination with irradiation were investigated.

Results

Overexpression of PDK1 was correlated with poor prognosis in patients with NPC. PDK1 depletion enhanced radiosensitivity of NPC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, a specific PDK1 inhibitor also had the potential to enhance radiosensitivity in radioresistant NPC cells. Mechanistically, PDK1 depletion inhibited various targets of AKT including mTOR and GSK‐3β and reversed the epithelial–mesenchymal transition.

Conclusions

These findings indicated that PDK1 might be a potential target for NPC.