bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La théorisation ancrée en sciences de la gestion : pratiques de collecte et d’analyse de données de deux vagues successives d’exploration
Authors: Gélinas Jocelyne
Published: June 2019

Cet article expose les choix en matière de pratiques de recherche et les outils structurels utilisés pour mettre en oeuvre l’échantillonnage théorique, réaliser la collecte et l’analyse de données, ainsi que légitimer la pertinence de la théorisation ancrée en sciences de la gestion. Un moyen judicieux de faire ressortir la place que peut occuper la théorisation ancrée en sciences de la gestion est certes la présentation des aspects méthodologiques d’une étude ayant nécessité deux vagues successives de recherche et dont la première correspond à un cycle complet de recherche, allant de l’induction à la déduction. Dans un contexte de gestion de la structure organisationnelle dite matricielle, la première vague de recherche fait ressortir la pertinence de mener une étude portant sur les solutions au problème d’intégration des activités de l’organisation alors que la seconde a pour objet le développement d’un modèle théorique d’intégration des activités de l’organisation.
The immune response behavior in HIV-AIDS patients treated with Ozone therapy for two years.
Authors: Cespedes-Suarez Javier , Martin-Serrano Yanisley , Carballosa-Peña Maria Rosa , Dager-Carballosa Diana Rosa
Published: June 2019

HIV continues to be one of the biggest problems for the global public health. The African region is one of the most affected, accounting for almost two thirds of the new infections. Many of them are retroviral medications and multi-therapies aiming to stop the viral replication and maintaining immunological stability, which fail to guarantee the quality of life or enhance the patient's immunity
Ozone has biological properties, among which the antimicrobial and modulatory effect on the immune response is highlighted, which makes it possible to use it in a complementary way for the treatment of these patients.
We conducted the present study in which the effect of the ozone therapy administered systemically (blood route) is analyzed. We have studied 32 patients to whom we applied Major Autohemotherapy with a protocol of 15 sessions and maintenance every 15 days at 50 µg/ml of concentration; the initial dose was 4,000 µg/mlup to 12,000 µg/ml
We indicated viral load, CD4 and CD8 counts before and at the end of therapy. The results showed a significant decrease in viral load to undetectable values and an increase of CD4 and CD8 at the end of the 15 sessions, being maintained at 2 years of treatment, thus achieving a permanent activation of the immune system and improving the quality of life of these patients.
Key words: Ozone therapy, HIV-AIDS, Immune Response, Major Autohemotherapy
A connectional hub in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex links areas of emotion and cognitive control
Authors: Tang Wei , Jbabdi Saad , Zhu Ziyi , Cottaar Michiel , Grisot Giorgia , Lehman Julia F , Yendiki Anastasia , Haber Suzanne N
Published: June 2019

We investigated afferent inputs from all areas in the frontal cortex (FC) to different subregions in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC). Using retrograde tracing in macaque monkeys, we quantified projection strength by counting retrogradely labeled cells in each FC area. The projection from different FC regions varied across injection sites in strength, following different spatial patterns. Importantly, a site at the rostral end of the cingulate sulcus stood out as having strong inputs from many areas in diverse FC regions. Moreover, it was at the integrative conjunction of three projection trends across sites. This site marks a connectional hub inside the rACC that integrates FC inputs across functional modalities. Tractography with monkey diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) located a similar hub region comparable to the tracing result. Applying the same tractography method to human dMRI data, we demonstrated that a similar hub can be located in the human rACC.
Application of the name Eucalyptus obtusiflora DC. (Myrtaceae).
Authors: Nicolle Dean , George Alex , Wilson Peter
Published: June 2019

Application of the name Eucalyptus obtusiflora DC. (Myrtaceae). Telopea #: #–# (2019). The name E. obtusiflora has been applied to both an eastern Australian species and to a distantly-related species from Western Australia. We have re-examined the literature and type material of E. obtusiflora and conclude that the holotype was most likely collected on the west coast of Western Australia, possibly as part of the Baudin Expedition, and was certainly not collected by Sieber, with whom the type specimen has previously been associated.
Capacity Building in Cooperative Organization: Ground for Change
Authors: Gerard A. Emejulu , Francis Nwachukwu Oforbuike , Esther Okafor Ogochukwu , Abdulahi Taiwo Olabisi
Published: June 2019

The concept of capacity building in cooperative society exist in all aspect of cooperatives activities and it is the important strategy that enable cooperative society and its members to perform effectively well in line with their goal and cooperative principles. For any cooperative society to perform very well and be able to compete favorably, it must invest reasonable amount of money to develop the ability of its members, employees and the society itself.
Total Protein, Bilirubin and AST Levels in Rat Models Treated with Ethanolic Extract of Eleusine coracana during Arsenic Trioxide Induced Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Oyeleke Oyedotun M. , Abey Nosarieme O. , Oso Babatunde J. , Jackson Nnenna C.
Published: June 2019

Eleusine coracana is considered one of the most nutritious cereals. It has different names in local languages. It is known as Ragi in Telugu and Kannada/aariyam in Tamil, and Madua in Hindi and in Nigeria, it is known as Okababa in Yoruba, Dawa in Hausa, etc. This study sought to investigate the protective ability of ethanolic extracts of Eleusine coracana in Arsenic trioxide induced hepatotoxicity using rat models. Animals were grouped into four (4). Group A received only distilled water, in group B,C and D hepatotoxicity was induced using 5 mg/dl Arsenic Trioxide solution for 14 days, followed by treatment in group C and D daily with 200 mg and 500 mg per kg body weight respectively for 14 days, and changes in body weight and Liver Function parameters were determined. Eleusine coracana contains Tannins, phlobatannins,Falavonoids and Terpenoids but not Steriods and Saponins, Eleusine treated groups had a significant decrease in the organ-body weight index. The mean weight and Total Protein was significantly reduced in the intoxicated-untreated group (group B). The AST, direct and total Bilirubin level was significantly higher in group B compared to control and other treated groups. Eleusine cocarna as a plant and source of food contains certain phytochemicals which are capable of managing hepatic cell injury, this serve as a point for pharmacological intervention.
Transfer and Accumulation of Some Heavy Metals in Native Vegetation Plants
Authors: Alsihany Mashael M. , Ghoneim Adel M. , Bukhari Najat A.
Published: June 2019

Phytoremediation procedure can be defined as the use of selected plants in order to eliminate some heavy metals from the soil, or wastewater in a cost-effective method. This study aimed to investigate the concentrations of heavy metals such as Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn and Cr in soils and vegetation plants grown in Wadi Hanifa, Riyadh city, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Five sites have been chosen for collected plant samples (shoot and root) for one year, and five plant species have been chosen which distributed in the study area including Ziziphus spina-christi, Prosopis juliflora, Rhazya stricta, Ochradenus baccatus and Conocarpus erectus. Determination of Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn and Cr has been done with ICP. Accumulation coefficient (AC), and translocation factor (TF) have been calculated to evaluate the ability of selected plants to extract the heavy metals from soil. The results indicated that Ziziphus spina-christi and Conocarpus erectus showed the high ability to accumulate the Pb and Zn in its root and shoot compared with other plants. The trend of heavy metal translocation factors for different plants was in the order of Cd > Cr > Pb > Cu > Zn. The accumulation coefficient (AC) of the Cd, Pb, Zn, Cu and Cr in the roots/soil of Ziziphus spina-christi, Prosopis juliflora, Rhazya stricta, Ochradenus baccatus and Conocarpus erectus were varied from 0.80 to 3.60. The order of AC in the shoot as follows: Pb > Cu > Zn > Cr > Cd, while in roots of as follows: Cd > Cr > Pb > Cr > Zn.
A Study of Plants, Animals and Minerals which are Used “Puttru Noi” (Cancer) Treatment in the Authentic Siddha and Traditional Text Book
Authors: Sujeethasai K. , Soruban T.
Published: June 2019

Cancer is a complex and serious illness. The modern treatment and techniques treat succeed on many types of diseases unfortunately there is no appropriate medicine for every types of Cancer. The Siddha Medical System correlates the diseases like Puttru Noi, Vipprudhi, Kandankirandhi, Kaddi, Raajapilavai, Thurmaangisam, Maamisa makotharam, Sathai adaippu and Silandhi with the signs and symptoms of Cancer under the Modern Medical Systems. In Siddha Medicine, medicinal plants play an important role in treating many diseases, though animal products and minerals also used in drugs.  Rasa Ganthi Meluku, Nanthimai, Rasaparpam, Vangaparpam, Senkoddai ghee, Sengoddai illagam etc are some of the important medicine mentioned in the Siddha Medical texts to treat Cancer. In this research we identify and discuss the raw materials which are used to cure the diseases related to Cancer in modern medicine. Sesame seed is mostly noted (3.15%) in the above important medicines. Longer pepper used in 2.36%, Garlic, Ginger, Chebulic myrobalan and Black cummin used in 2.10% of important medicines. Mercury is mostly noted (12.77%) in the above important medicines. Sulphur used in 10.64%, Arithaaram and Inthuppu used in 7.45% of important medicines. Ghee is mostly noted (40.91%) in the above important medicines. Cow milk used in 27.27%, and goat milk used in 9.09% of important medicines.
Phase Transformation and Fine Fully Lamellar (FFL) Structure Formation in a High Nb‐Containing Beta‐Gamma TiAl Alloy
Authors: Wu Yulun , Hu Rui , Yang Jieren , Xue Xiangyi
Published: June 2019

TiAl intermetallics with fine fully lamellar (FFL) microstructure exhibit great potential application in high‐performance combustion engines. In this paper, the phase transformation sequence of a high Nb‐containing beta‐gamma TiAl alloy is obtained by using metallographic method. The results indicate that the single α‐phase field of Ti‐43Al‐8Nb‐0.2W‐0.2B alloy is inexistent or extremely narrow, which is caused by slight W element possibly. The temperatures of γ‐solvus and β‐transus are in the range of 1225–1230 °C and 1400–1410 °C, respectively. Based on the phase transformation temperatures, an improved multi‐step heat treatment of homogenizing in single β‐phase field followed by slightly higher than γ‐solvus is designed to obtain a FFL microstructure. The average lamellar colony size of the optimal microstructure is about 80 µm and the volume fraction of B2 phase is about 1%. Further analyses indicate that the elements redistribution and the secondary particles pinning effect are the mainly mechanisms of transforming to FFL microstructure.
Additive Manufacturing of Biomechanically Tailored Meshes for Compliant Wearable and Implantable Devices
Authors: Pattinson Sebastian W. , Huber Meghan E. , Kim Sanha , Lee Jongwoo , Grunsfeld Sarah , Roberts Ricardo , Dreifus Gregory , Meier Christoph , Liu Lei , Hogan Neville , Hart A. John
Published: June 2019

Additive manufacturing (AM) of medical devices such as orthopedic implants and hearing aids is highly attractive because of the potential of AM to match the complex form and mechanics of individual human bodies. Externally worn and implantable tissue‐support devices, such as ankle or knee braces, and hernia repair mesh, offer a new opportunity for AM to mimic tissue‐like mechanics and improve both patient outcomes and comfort. Here, it is demonstrated how explicit programming of the toolpath in an extrusion AM process can enable new, flexible mesh materials having digitally tailored mechanical properties and geometry. Meshes are fabricated by extrusion of thermoplastics, optionally with continuous fiber reinforcement, using a continuous toolpath that tailors the elasticity of unit cells of the mesh via incorporation of slack and modulation of filament–filament bonding. It is shown how the tensile mesh mechanics can be engineered to match the nonlinear response of muscle. An ankle brace with directionally specific inversion stiffness arising from embedded mesh is validated, and further concepts for 3D mesh devices are prototyped.
Designing of a Magnetodielectric System in Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Framework, a Perovskite Layered Phosphonate MnO3PC6H4‐m‐Br⋅H2O
Authors: Basu Tathamay , Bloyet Clarisse , Beaubras Félicien , Caignaert Vincent , Perez Olivier , Rueff Jean‐Michel , Pautrat Alain , Raveau Bernard , Lohier Jean‐François , Jaffrès Paul‐Alain , Couthon Hélène , Rogez Guillaume , Taupier Grégory , Dorkenoo Honorat
Published: June 2019

Very few hybrid organic–inorganic framework (HOIF) exhibit direct coupling between spins and dipoles and are also restricted to a particular COOH‐based system. It is shown how one can design a hybrid system to obtain such coupling based on the rational design of the organic ligands. The layered phosphonate, MnO3PC6H5⋅H2O, consisting of perovskite layers stacked with organic phenyl layers, is used as a starting potential candidate. To introduce dipole moment, a closely related metal phosphonate, MnO3PC6H4‐m‐Br⋅H2O is designed. For this purpose, this phosphonate is prepared from 3‐bromophenylphosphonic acid that features one electronegative bromine atom directly attached on the aromatic ring in the meta position, lowering the symmetry of precursor itself. Thus, bromobenzene moieties in MnO3PC6H4‐m‐Br⋅H2O induce a finite dipole moment. This new designed compound exhibits complex magnetism, as observed in layered alkyl chains MnO3PCnH2n+1⋅H2O materials, namely, 2D magnetic ordering ≈20 K followed by weak ferromagnetic ordering below 12 K (T1) with a magnetic field (H)‐induced transition ≈25 kOe below T1. All these magnetic features are exactly captured in the T and H‐dependent dielectric constant, ε′(T) and ε′(H). This demonstrates direct magnetodielectric coupling in this designed hybrid and yields a new path to tune multiferroic ordering and magnetodielectric coupling.
FAPbI3 Flexible Solar Cells with a Record Efficiency of 19.38% Fabricated in Air via Ligand and Additive Synergetic Process
Authors: Wu Cuncun , Wang Duo , Zhang Yuqing , Gu Feidan , Liu Ganghong , Zhu Ning , Luo Wei , Han Dong , Guo Xuan , Qu Bo , Wang Shufeng , Bian Zuqiang , Chen Zhijian , Xiao Lixin
Published: June 2019

Compared with silicon‐based solar cells, organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs) possess a distinct advantage, i.e., its application in the flexible field. However, the efficiency of the flexible device is still lower than that of the rigid one. First, it is found that the dense formamidinium (FA)‐based perovskite film can be obtained with the help of N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP) via low pressure‐assisted method. In addition, CH3NH3Cl (MACl) as the additive can preferentially form MAPbCl3−xIx perovskite seeds to induce perovskite phase transition and crystal growth. Finally, by using FAI·PbI2·NMP+x%MACl as the precursor, i.e., ligand and additive synergetic process, a FA‐based perovskite film with a large grain size, high crystallinity, and low trap density is obtained on a flexible substrate under ambient conditions due to the synergetic effect, e.g., MACl can enhance the crystallization of the intermediate phase of FAI·PbI2·NMP. As a result, a record efficiency of 19.38% in flexible planar PSCs is achieved, and it can retain about 89% of its initial power conversion efficiency (PCE) after 230 days without encapsulation under ambient conditions. The PCE retains 92% of the initial value after 500 bending cycles with a bending radii of 10 mm. The results show a robust way to fabricate highly efficient flexible PSCs.
Mesostructured Nonwovens with Penguin Downy Feather‐Like Morphology—Top‐Down Combined with Bottom‐Up
Authors: Burgard Matthias , Weiss Daniel , Kreger Klaus , Schmalz Holger , Agarwal Seema , Schmidt Hans‐Werner , Greiner Andreas
Published: June 2019

Polymer fibers play an important role in nature and technical systems. Fiber morphologies with off‐standing branches, as found in nature, e.g. in penguin downy feathers, provide unique properties but are unknown for man‐made polymer fiber systems. We discovered that it is possible to initiate seeded growth from trisamide seeded polystyrene fibers, prepared by core‐shell electrospinning, to form off‐standing supramolecular trisamide branches similar to penguin downy feathers but in polymer nonwovens and in nanoscale. Resulting mesostructured nonwovens show unique properties. For example, air filtration efficiency of 99.8% for the filtration of 0.3 µm aerosol particles, being significantly higher compared to neat electrospun polystyrene nonwovens as bench‐mark, showing only an efficiency of about 52.6%. Most remarkably, the pressure drop observed in filtration tests and thus, the energy consumption during filtration, did not increase up to a certain content of off‐standing supramolecular fibrils. This is a unique behavior, as higher filtration capabilities are typically connected to higher energy consumptions and pressure drops. Hence, branching electrospun fibers with supramolecular fibrils paves the way to new mesostructured nonwovens with unique morphologies, property profiles and applications in filtration, catalysis, and energy storage/harvesting, exploiting nature's concepts.
Tailorable Dynamics in Nonlinear Optical Metasurfaces
Authors: Ren Mengxin , Cai Wei , Xu Jingjun
Published: June 2019

Controlling light with light is essential for all‐optical switching, data processing in optical communications and computing. Until now, all‐optical control of light has relied almost exclusively on nonlinear optical interactions in materials. Achieving giant nonlinearities under low light intensity is essential for weak‐light nonlinear optics. In the past decades, such weak‐light nonlinear phenomena have been demonstrated in photorefractive and photochromic materials. However, their bulky size and slow speed have hindered practical applications. Metasurfaces, which enhance light–matter interactions at the nanoscale, provide a new framework with tailorable nonlinearities for weak‐light nonlinear dynamics. Current advances in nonlinear metasurfaces are introduced, with a special emphasis on all‐optical light controls. The tuning of the nonlinearity values using metasurfaces, including enhancement and sign reversal is presented. The tailoring of the transient behaviors of nonlinearities in metasurfaces to achieve femtosecond switching speed is also discussed. Furthermore, the impact of quantum effects from the metasurface on the nonlinearities is introduced. Finally, an outlook on the future development of this energetic field is offered.
High‐Performance Polymeric Materials through Hydrogen‐Bond Cross‐Linking
Authors: Song Pingan , Wang Hao
Published: June 2019

It has always been critical to develop high‐performance polymeric materials with exceptional mechanical strength and toughness, thermal stability, and even healable properties for meeting performance requirements in industry. Conventional chemical cross‐linking leads to enhanced mechanical strength and thermostability at the expense of extensibility due to mutually exclusive mechanisms. Such major challenges have recently been addressed by using noncovalent cross‐linking of reversible multiple hydrogen‐bonds (H‐bonds) that widely exist in biological materials, such as silk and muscle. Recent decades have witnessed the development of many tailor‐made high‐performance H‐bond cross‐linked polymeric materials. Here, recent advances in H‐bond cross‐linking strategies are reviewed for creating high‐performance polymeric materials. H‐bond cross‐linking of polymers can be realized via i) self‐association of interchain multiple H‐bonding interactions or specific H‐bond cross‐linking motifs, such as 2‐ureido‐4‐pyrimidone units with self‐complementary quadruple H‐bonds and ii) addition of external cross‐linkers, including small molecules, nanoparticles, and polymer aggregates. The resultant cross‐linked polymers normally exhibit tunable high strength, large extensibility, improved thermostability, and healable capability. Such performance portfolios enable these advanced polymers to find many significant cutting‐edge applications. Major challenges facing existing H‐bond cross‐linking strategies are discussed, and some promising approaches for designing H‐bond cross‐linked polymeric materials in the future are also proposed.
Damage‐Free Solar Dewatering of Micro‐Algal Concentrates via Multifunctional Hierarchical Porous Graphene
Authors: Ito Yoshikazu , Habata Yuto , Kuramochi Hirotaka , Kusuda Emi , Hu Kailong , Masuda Hideki , Fujita Junichi , Nagata Yuki , Watanabe Makoto M. , Isdepsky Andreas
Published: June 2019

A damage‐free dewatering method, without centrifugation, mechanical squeezing, and solar irradiation, is important for separating solids from pure water and can be used for the production of biomass‐derived renewable fine chemicals, fertilizers, and fuels in biotechnological applications. Herein a damage‐free steam generator constructed by a single sheet of nitrogen‐doped nanoporous graphene and nitrogen‐doped porous graphene foam as hierarchical structures is reported. The multifunctional hierarchical graphene steam generator has a high water evaporation rate (1.54 kg m−2 h−1) accompanied by a high energy conversion efficiency (82.2%). Furthermore, it exhibits excellent persistence in dewatering performance over multiple uses, unlike the graphene foam that shows marked reduction in performance after several reuses. Therefore, the multifunctional hierarchical graphene steam generator is a cost‐effective material for accelerating both the harvesting of biomass concentrates and the production of pure water.
Cowpea Mosaic Virus Immunotherapy Combined with Cyclophosphamide Reduces Breast Cancer Tumor Burden and Inhibits Lung Metastasis
Authors: Cai Hui , Wang Chao , Shukla Sourabh , Steinmetz Nicole F.
Published: June 2019

Patients with metastatic triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) have a poor prognosis, so new therapies or drug combinations that achieve more effective and durable responses are urgently needed. Here, a combination therapy using cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) and low doses of cyclophosphamide (CPA) is developed with remarkable synergistic efficacy against 4T1 mouse tumors in vivo. The combination therapy not only attenuates the growth of primary tumor and increases survival, but also suppresses distant tumor growth and reduces lung metastasis. Mechanistic analysis indicates that the combination of CPMV and CPA increases the secretion of several cytokines, activates antigen‐presenting cells, increases the abundance of tumor infiltrating T cells, and systematically reverses the immunosuppression. These results show that the combination of CPMV in situ vaccination with chemotherapy may become a potent new strategy for the treatment of TNBC.
Maternal nutrient intake and fetal gastroschisis: A case‐control study
Authors: Centofanti Sandra F. , Francisco Rossana P. V. , Phillippi Sonia T. , Galletta Marco A. K. , Sousa Ana M. S. , Rodrigues Agatha S. , Curi Rui , Brizot Maria L.
Published: June 2019

Fetal gastroschisis is a paraumbilical abdominal wall defect with herniation of the abdominal organs. This multifactorial malformation occurs in young pregnant women, and the underlying cause of the disease remains unknown; however, nutritional factors may play a role in its development. This case‐control study explored the association of maternal nutrient intake with the occurrence of gastroschisis. The gastroschisis group (GG) comprised 57 pregnant women with fetuses with gastroschisis, and the control group (CG) comprised 114 pregnant women with normal fetuses matched for maternal age, gestational age, and preconception body mass index classification. Nutritional assessments related to the preconception period were obtained using the food consumption frequency questionnaire, and nutrient intakes were calculated using nutrition programs. The median daily calorie intake was higher (2,382.43 vs. 2,198.81; p = .041) in the GG than in the CG. The median intake of methionine (763.89 vs. 906.34; p = .036) and threonine (1,248.34 vs. 1,437.01; p = .018) was lower in the GG than in the CG. Pregnant women with fetuses with gastroschisis have a diet characterized by higher calorie intake and lower levels of essential amino acids (methionine and threonine) during the preconception period than pregnant women with normal fetuses.
Towards anticancer fluoroquinolones: A review article
Authors: Abdel‐Aal Mohamed A. A. , Abdel‐Aziz Salah A. , Shaykoon Montaser Sh. A. , Abuo‐Rahma Gamal El‐Din A.
Published: June 2019

Different studies about the anticancer potential of several medically used antibacterial fluoroquinolones have been established. Fluoroquinolone derivatives, like some anti‐cancer drugs, such as doxorubicin, can achieve antitumor activity via poisoning of type II human DNA topoisomerases. Interestingly, structural features required for the anticancer activity of quinolones have been determined. Most of the chemical modifications required to convert antibacterially acting fluoroquinolones into their anticancer analogs were at position 7 and the carboxylic group at position 3. This review highlights the antitumor potential of fluoroquinolones in general and summarizes the chemical modifications carried out on fluoroquinolones to become anticancer agents. Moreover, the review gives a quick recap on metal ion chelates with fluoroquinolones and their substantial role in topoisomerase poisoning and antitumor potential improvement. Hence, it should be highly interesting for researchers attempting to design and synthesize novel anticancer fluoroquinolone candidates.
Polarization of broad line emission in radio galaxies
Authors: Piotrovich Mikhail Y. , Buliga Stanislava D. , Natsvlishvili Tinatin M. , Gnedin Yuri N.
Published: June 2019

We present the results of our estimations of the polarization degree of broad line emission for the radio galaxies 3C 120, Mrk 335, Mrk 1501, and PG 2130 + 099. We derived the polarization degree for every broad line of 3C 120: Hα, Hβ, Hγ, and HeIλ5876 using the published data for the geometrical parameters and the structure of the broad line region (BLR) of 3C 120. We used published estimates of the geometrical thickness to the radius ratio for every broad emission line. The estimated vertical BLR structure corresponds to the disk‐like structure of this region in active galactic nuclei (AGN). Also for objects Mrk 335, Mrk 1501, and PG 2130 + 099, we estimated the polarization degree using inclination angle values from the literature. As a result, measuring the polarization degree of broad line emissions acquires the central meaning for determination of the geometrical parameters of the BLR in AGN.
The population‐attributable fraction for time‐dependent exposures using dynamic prediction and landmarking
Authors: von Cube Maja , Schumacher Martin , Putter Hein , Timsit Jéan‐François , van de Velde Cornelis , Wolkewitz Martin
Published: June 2019

The public health impact of a harmful exposure can be quantified by the population‐attributable fraction (PAF). The PAF describes the attributable risk due to an exposure and is often interpreted as the proportion of preventable cases if the exposure was extinct. Difficulties in the definition and interpretation of the PAF arise when the exposure of interest depends on time. Then, the definition of exposed and unexposed individuals is not straightforward. We propose dynamic prediction and landmarking to define and estimate a PAF in this data situation. Two estimands are discussed which are based on two hypothetical interventions that could prevent the exposure in different ways. Considering the first estimand, at each landmark the estimation problem is reduced to a time‐independent setting. Then, estimation is simply performed by using a generalized‐linear model accounting for the current exposure state and further (time‐varying) covariates. The second estimand is based on counterfactual outcomes, estimation can be performed using pseudo‐values or inverse‐probability weights. The approach is explored in a simulation study and applied on two data examples. First, we study a large French database of intensive care unit patients to estimate the population‐benefit of a pathogen‐specific intervention that could prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia caused by the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, we quantify the population‐attributable burden of locoregional and distant recurrence in breast cancer patients.
Simultaneous determination of 19 constituents in Cimicifugae Rhizoma by HPLC–DAD and screening for antioxidants through DPPH free radical scavenging assay
Authors: Niu Xueni , Qin Rulan , Zhao Yudan , Han Ling , Lu Jincai , Lv Chongning
Published: June 2019

Cimicifugae Rhizoma (sheng ma) is a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine, which has been demonstrated to possess anti‐inflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic activities. In the present study, a simple and efficient HPLC–DAD (high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection) method was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of 19 chemical components (including 16 phenolic acids, one coumarin and two alkaloids) in Cimicifugae Rhizoma. The result indicated that this method could effectively evaluate the quality of Cimicifugae Rhizoma and provide a valuable reference for further study. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of Cimicifugae Rhizoma was evaluated by DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assay. The results showed that the content of phenolic acids and antioxidant activity exhibited significant correlation coefficients.
Effects of medium composition on the growth and lipid production of microplasmodia of Physarum polycephalum
Authors: Truong Kiet A. , Stephenson Steven L. , Phung Trung V. , Tran Hanh T.M.
Published: June 2019

Physarum polycephalum is a plasmodial slime mold. One of the trophic stages in the life cycle of this organism is a plasmodium. In submerged culture, plasmodia are fragmented into microplasmodia. The latter both lack cell walls and are capable of rapid growth. There has been limited information on the effects of medium composition on the growth and lipid accumulation of microplasmodia. In this study, optimization of medium components by response surface methodology showed that tryptone and yeast extract concentrations had the most significant effects on lipid and biomass production; significant synergistic interactions between glucose and tryptone concentration on these responses were also recorded. The optimal medium was composed of 20 g/L of glucose, 6.59 g/L of tryptone, and 3.0 g/L of yeast extract. This medium yielded 13.86 g/L of dry biomass and 1.97 g/L of lipids. These amounts are threefold higher than those of the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) medium. In addition, biomass and lipid production reached maximal values between only 4 and 5 days. Fatty acid compositions analysis by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometer (GC–MS) revealed that P. polycephalum lipids consisted mainly of oleic acid (40.5%), linoleic acid (10%), and octadecynoic (15.8%). This is the first report on the fatty acid composition of P. polycephalum microplasmodia. These results suggest that the biomass of microplasmodia could be used as a source of material for direct conversion into biodiesel because of the absence of cell walls or it could also be used as a supplemental source of beneficial fatty acids for humans, albeit with some further evaluation needed.
DACH1 suppresses epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) through Notch1 pathway and reverses progestin resistance in endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Qing , Li Wenzhi , Kong Deshui , Liu Zhiming , Shi Zhengzheng , Ma Xiaohong , Li Yongmei , Jiang Jie
Published: June 2019

Progestin resistance limits the effectiveness of progestin therapy in endometrial carcinoma for patients who desire to preserve fertility. To investigate the molecular mechanism of progestin resistance in endometrial carcinoma, we performed microarray analysis among Ishikawa and progestin resistant cell IshikawaPR cells. We found that epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) was involved in progestin resistance and dachshund family transcription factor 1 (DACH1) is positively correlated with progesterone receptor (PGR). Knockdown of DACH1 in Ishikawa cell promoted proliferation, metastasis ability, and resistance to progestin. Conversely, overexpression of DACH1 in IshikawaPR cell rendered more sensitive to progestin treatment. Xenograft model assay also had similar results. In addition, our data showed that DACH1 overexpression inhibited EMT and decreased c‐Jun, Notch1 and Hes1expression. Our study demonstrated for the first time that EMT is involved in progestin resistance of EC. The response to progestin could be reserved by DACH1 suppressed EMT through Notch1 pathway via c‐Jun.
Chronic retinoic acid treatment induces differentiation and changes in the metabolite levels of brown (pre)adipocytes
Authors: Suzuki Mika , Chen Hsuan‐Ju , Tomonaga Shozo , Hashimoto Osamu , Kawada Teruo , Matsui Tohru , Funaba Masayuki
Published: June 2019

Dietary vitamin A status affects energy metabolism. The present study explored the effect of all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on the expression levels of molecules and metabolites of brown adipocytes. Chronic ATRA treatment was initiated during the early stage (days 0‐8) or late stage (days 8‐12) of adipogenesis. Treatment with ATRA during the early and late stage of adipogenesis resulted in an increase in the expression level of Ucp1 and Cidea, genes highly expressed in brown adipocytes, on day 8 and day 12, respectively, whereas expression of Pgc‐1α, another gene expressed during brown adipogenesis, was unaffected by ATRA. Non‐targeted metabolomic analyses indicated that the pathways related to the glucose metabolism were affected by ATRA, irrespective of the differentiation stage. Cellular levels of glucose 6‐phosphate, fructose 6‐phosphate, citric acid, and succinic acid decreased after ATRA treatment on days 8 and 12. In contrast, glucose level was higher in ATRA‐treated cells on day 8, but it was lower on day 12. ATRA decreased the cellular level of aconitic acid, fumaric acid, and malic acid on day 12 but not on day 8. Furthermore, ATRA increased the expression level of Hxk2 and downregulated the expressions of G6pdh and Pfkl/Pfkp on day 8 but not on day 12. Together, the results indicate that the chronic treatment with ATRA stimulated the formation of activated brown adipocytes, eventually leading to alterations in the levels of cellular metabolites related to glucose metabolism.

Significance of the study

Significance of the study treatment with all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) during the early and late stage of adipogenesis increased the expression of Ucp1 and Cidea, genes highly expressed in brown adipocytes, on day 8 and day 12. Cellular levels of glucose 6‐phosphate, fructose 6‐phosphate, citric acid, and succinic acid decreased after ATRA treatment on days 8 and 12. In contrast, glucose level was higher in ATRA‐treated cells on day 8, but it was lower on day 12. The present results indicate that ATRA stimulated the formation of activated brown adipocytes, eventually leading to alterations in the levels of cellular metabolites related to glucose metabolism.
On the Enzymatic Formation of Metal Base Pairs with Thiolated and pKa‐Perturbed Nucleotides
Authors: Levi‐Acobas Fabienne , Röthlisberger Pascal , Sarac Ivo , Marlière Philippe , Herdewijn Piet , Hollenstein Marcel
Published: June 2019

The formation of artificial metal base pairs is an alluring and versatile method for the functionalization of nucleic acids. Access to DNA functionalized with metal base pairs is granted mainly by solid‐phase synthesis. An alternative, yet underexplored method, envisions the installation of metal base pairs through the polymerization of modified nucleoside triphosphates. Herein, we have explored the possibility of using thiolated and pKa‐perturbed nucleotides for the enzymatic construction of artificial metal base pairs. The thiolated nucleotides S2C, S6G, and S4T as well as the fluorinated analogue 5FU are readily incorporated opposite a templating S4T nucleotide through the guidance of metal cations. Multiple incorporation of the modified nucleotides along with polymerase bypass of the unnatural base pairs are also possible under certain conditions. The thiolated nucleotides S4T, S4T, S2C, and S6G were also shown to be compatible with the synthesis of modified, high molecular weight single‐stranded (ss)DNA products through TdT‐mediated tailing reactions. Thus, sulfur‐substitution and pKa perturbation represent alternative strategies for the design of modified nucleotides compatible with the enzymatic construction of metal base pairs.
Controlled sprouting in wheat increases quality and consumer acceptability of whole‐wheat bread
Authors: Johnston Rachel , Martin John M. , Vetch Justin M. , Byker‐Shanks Carmen , Finnie Sean , Giroux Michael J.
Published: June 2019

Background and objectives

Intentional sprouting of grain to modify grain products nutritional composition and flavor has been in practice for thousands of years. However, few studies have tested the impact of controlled sprouting on wheat flour functionality and flavor. In this study, grain of nine hard red spring (HRS) wheat (Triticum aestivum L) cultivars was sprouted with the goal of attaining a falling number (FN) value of 200 from a starting FN of 350 s. Paired samples of sprouted and sound HRS grain were then assayed for nutritional composition, functionality in bread baking, and in bread taste tests.

Findings

Sprouting reduced grain hardness and test weight while increasing grain color brightness, yellowness, and redness. Whole‐sprouted grain flour had twice the alpha amylase activity and a large decrease in flour swelling power relative to sound grain flour. Sprouted flour also contained increased free amino acids and monosaccharides while having decreased sugar alcohol content. Total dietary fiber trended down in the sprouted grain flour while starch content remained unchanged. Whole‐grain flour color parameters were relatively unaltered by sprouting. Sprouting reduced dough mix times while increasing loaf volume. Sensory panel evaluations demonstrated that testers preferred bread prepared from sprouted grain flour to bread prepared from sound grain while also finding that sprouted grain bread tasted less bitter and grainy while also being perceived as sweeter and moister.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that controlled sprouting of wheat grain could be used to increase whole‐grain flour functionality in bread baking and consumer acceptability of whole‐grain foods.

Significance and novelty

Sprouting of wheat to a FN of ~200 increases loaf volume and consumer preference of whole‐grain bread. Greater consumer acceptability could lead to increased consumption of whole‐grain bread.
Two‐Photon Absorption and Cell Imaging of Fluorene‐Functionalized Epicocconone Analogues
Authors: Oger Samuel , Schapman Damien , Mougeot Romain , Leleu Stéphane , Lascoux Noëlle , Baldeck Patrice , Bénard Magalie , Gallavardin Thibault , Galas Ludovic , Franck Xavier
Published: June 2019

Epicocconone 1 is a natural chromophore isolated from the fungus Epicoccum nigrum that has shown applications in proteomics and fluorescent microscopy thanks to its unique pro‐fluorescence properties. The modification of the skeleton of the natural product by replacing the triene side chain by a fluorenyl scaffold can noticeably increase the fluorophore's absorption coefficient. The synthesis of the analogues of the natural product has been made possible by the use of a palladium‐catalyzed carbonylation reaction, allowing the construction of the β‐keto‐dioxinone key intermediate. Two‐photon absorption cross‐section measurements of the fluorenyl epicocconone analogues show a structure dependency with values ranging from 60 to 280 GM and live cell imaging show intense staining of intracellular vesicle‐like structures around the nucleus.
Direct meta‐C−H Perfluoroalkenylation of Arenes Enabled by a Cleavable Pyrimidine‐Based Template
Authors: Brochetta Massimo , Borsari Tania , Bag Sukdev , Jana Sadhan , Maiti Siddhartha , Porta Alessio , Werz Daniel B. , Zanoni Giuseppe , Maiti Debabrata
Published: June 2019

The development of efficient and mild methods for the synthesis of organofluorine compounds is of foremost interest in various fields of chemistry. A direct pyrimidine‐based selective meta‐C−H perfluoroalkenylation of arenes involving several commercially available perfluoroolefins is described. The synthetic versatility of the protocol is demonstrated by an extensive substrate scope including different benzylsulfonyl, alkylarene and phenylacetic acid scaffolds. The generality of this methodology including the meta‐C−H perfluoroalkenylation of Ibuprofen, the facile cleavage of the directing group and gram‐scale reactions are presented.
Concordance in postsurgical radioactive iodine therapy recommendations between Watson for Oncology and clinical practice in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Kim Mijin , Kim Bo Hyun , Kim Jeong Mi , Kim Eun Heui , Kim Keunyoung , Pak Kyoungjune , Jeon Yun Kyung , Kim Sang Soo , Park Heeseung , Kang Taewoo , Lee Byung Joo , Kim In Joo
Published: June 2019

Background

To the authors' knowledge, the indications for radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) are unclear; treatment decisions are based on physician judgment. The objective of the current study was to identify the degree of concordance between postsurgical RAI therapy recommended by Watson for Oncology (WFO), a clinical decision support system for oncological therapy, and that recommended by physicians for patients with DTC.

Methods

The current retrospective cohort study included 207 patients with DTC who underwent thyroidectomy between 2017 and 2018. Treatment recommendations were considered concordant if WFO rendered recommendations consistent with those of the physicians.

Results

Treatment recommendations were concordant for 160 patients (77%). The concordance rate significantly differed according to the American Thyroid Association (ATA) risk category (P < .001) and American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM stage (seventh edition; P = .004). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that treatment recommendations were significantly less likely to be concordant in patients with ATA intermediate‐risk and stage III disease compared with those with ATA low‐risk and stage I disease (odds ratio, 0.16 [P < .001] and OR, 0.35 [P = .004], respectively).

Conclusions

The authors believe the concordance rate between postsurgical RAI therapy recommendations rendered by WFO and those rendered by physicians was too low to justify adopting WFO for the comprehensive screening of patients with DTC. This is particularly true among patients with ATA intermediate‐risk and stage III disease, reflecting differences in practice patterns between the United States (where WFO was calibrated) and Korea. Hence, WFO is not a substitute for physicians, and also may require regional customization to improve its assistive capability.
Risk of Hypoglycemia and Concomitant Use of Repaglinide and Clopidogrel: A Population‐Based Nested Case‐Control Study
Authors: Wei Yun , Lin Fang‐Ju , Lin Shin‐Yi , Wang Chi‐Chuan
Published: June 2019

This nested case‐control study evaluated the potential interaction between repaglinide and clopidogrel. Cases were defined by inpatient admissions or emergency department visits due to hypoglycemia. Concomitant use of repaglinide and clopidogrel within 3 days before the hypoglycemic event was the exposure of interest. For each case, up to four controls were randomly selected and matched by age, sex, type of glinide used (repaglinide or nateglinide), and time since cohort entry to the index date. Hypoglycemic risk was estimated by conditional logistic regressions. Concomitant use of repaglinide and clopidogrel was associated with an increased risk of hypoglycemia compared with repaglinide alone (adjusted odds ratio: 2.42; 95% confidence interval: 1.75−3.35). No significant associations were found with the two negative control object drug concomitants: nateglinide and clopidogrel and repaglinide and aspirin (without clopidogrel use). Our study suggests drug interaction between clopidogrel and repaglinide is clinically relevant and could increase the risk for hypoglycemia.
The motivational effect of multicolored dental restoration on dental behavior of first preliminary school children
Authors: Melebari Lojain Abdulaziz , Attas Seba Essam , Arafa Abla
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To assess the motivational effect of multi‐colored restoration on the anxiety level of pediatric patients at thedental clinic and its motivational effect on their oral hygiene status.

Material and methods

A total of 30 participants.

Results

Both groups revealed reduction in the anxiety level and improvement in their behavior at the dental office but did not reach significance. Plaque index showed a significant reduction per group and a near significance as compared between test groups.

Conclusions

The use of the multicolored restoration could provide a potential advantage to improve the oral health status of children and might aid in enhancing their behavior at dental clinic particularly younger age groups.
Transitioning towards the bio‐economy: Assessing the social dimension through a stakeholder lens
Authors: Falcone Pasquale Marcello , González García Sara , Imbert Enrica , Lijó Lucía , Moreira María Teresa , Tani Almona , Tartiu Valentina Elena , Morone Piergiuseppe
Published: June 2019

International institutions are calling for a transition towards more sustainable systems of production and consumption. In this transition, sustainable innovations are expected to play an ever‐increasing role. In particular, the production of innovative bio‐based products—products wholly or partly derived from biological materials or from innovative production processes and/or innovative biomass such as food waste or forest residuals—will be part of this process. However, the sustainability of such products must be assured along their entire life cycle and across the three dimensions mentioned above. Against this background, our study aimed at identifying a social impact framework tailored to bio‐based products. It employed a two‐step methodological framework encompassing (a) identification of the relevant social impact categories, subcategories, and indicators and (b) validation of these factors, according to participatory stakeholder involvement. The validation exercise enabled us to consider a restricted number of social indicators so as to reduce the amount of data needed for assessing and decreasing related costs.