bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF MANDURA VATAKA: A REVIEW
Authors: Rajawat Swayam Prabha , Meend Sonia , Meena Moharpal , Ramnani Reetesh
Published: December 2024

Mandura Vataka is a Herbo mineral formulation that includes a variety of medications with plant, metal, and mineral origins. Mandura Bhasma is a preparation made using iron.Pandu (Anaemia), Agnimandhaya(poor digestion), Tvaka vikara (skin conditions),Aruchi (dyspepsia) Kamala(jaundice) Phleeha and Ykritha vikara(splenic and hepatic problems) and Sodha( edema) are among the conditions it is used to treat. Mandura vataka contains Mandura as a metal, Swarnamakshika as a mineral and other herbal drugs. It includes four major process include Shodhana of Mandura and Swarna-makshika after that preparation of Mandura and Swarnmakshika Bhasma. Mandura vataka is one of the important formulation used in classics. It is considered as Pranda Panduroginaam. There are various formulation of Mandura Vataka in various samhita. In this study, we shed light on a number of Mandura Vataka references and indications and comprehend the substance's mechanism of action.
A COMPARATIVE EXPLORATION OF GARBHOPANISHAD IN THE PURVIEW OF THE BRIHATRAYEE: A REVIEW
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Shetty Suhas Kumar , Dixit Sanyogeeta A , Kulkarni Vaishnavi G , Devagonda Shedbale Susmita
Published: December 2024

This review aims to explore the Garbhopanishad in the purview of Ayurvedic texts, particularly the Brihatrayee (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridayam), to provide a comparative analysis of various aspects of embryology and physiology. The Garbhopanishad, attributed to Maharishi Pippalada, discusses the formation, development, and functioning of the human body from conception through foetal growth to birth. It delves into the panchamahabhoota theory, describing the body's composition and functions based on the five elements and their interactions. The text also outlines the monthly growth stages of the foetus, the formation of bodily tissues, and the factors influencing sex determination and birth defects. Key findings include detailed descriptions of the physiological processes governing foetal development, the influence of maternal and paternal factors on the foetus, and the Ayurvedic interpretations of these processes as found in the Brihatrayee. This review highlights the unique monologue of the foetus regarding its previous lives and the philosophical implications of birth and rebirth. By examining each verse of the Garbhopanishad through the lens of Ayurvedic literature, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of ancient Indian embryological knowledge and its relevance to contemporary Ayurvedic practice.
A CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF PRATIVISHA FROM VISHOPAYOGIYA ADHYAYA OF UTTARSTHANA OF ASHTANGA SANGRAHA: A REVIEW
Authors: Sonawane Abhimanyu A. , Solanki Varsha R , Patel Bhupesh , Sud Sushant
Published: December 2024

Agada tantra’ is one of important branch among Ashtanga which deals with the diseases and treatment due to poison. In Ashtanga Sangraha Uttarsthana 48th Vishopayogiya Adhyaya of concept related to use of Visha to treat poisoning and different disease is given. Visha is heavily poisonous, But the Different Prativisha Yogas prepared from visha cannot be considered as harmful, it is not a threat to the life. Prativisha Yogas mentioned is indicated different diseases conditions. The use of snake venom for medicinal remedy, indications and contra indications of the Prativisha yogas are well mentioned in this chapter. It has been reviewed through many research articles that Visha such as Vatsanabha and snake venom have wide therapeutic Application. It is need of time to conduct research on Prativisha yogas to establish their clinical importance. This paper highlights the clinical significance of Visha Upayogiya Adhyaya.
STANDARDIZATION OF POLYHERBAL SIDDHA FORMULATION ASWATHY CHOORANAM
Authors: NA Bharathi , H Vetha Merlin Kumari , T Lakshmi Kantham , R Meena Kumari
Published: December 2024

Standardization of a siddha drug is required to set a standard for definitive quantitative and qualitative value, inherent characteristics, constant parameters to ensure quality, safety and efficacy and reproducibility by agreeing upon certain technical standards. It enables us to understand and develop specific standards for a particular drug Since the drugs are expected to exert desired outcomes at particular concentrations, there is an increasing need for their validation, scientific standards and uniformity for its Globalization. Also, with the increasing demand for traditional medicine among patients, there is a curiosity among the modern medicine practioners to explore traditional medicine through a scientific approach. The poly herbal drug Aswathy chooranam from Agasthiyar vaithiya kaviyam has been subjected to various physiochemical analysis as per PLIM guidelines for standardization of chooranam such as, sterility test, test for pathogens and pesticides, HPTLC, TLC, Particle size determination, Heavy metal analysis and Aflatoxin assays and the results revealed that the formulation Aswathy chooranam has met the criteria of PLIM guidelines. This article might provide valuable insights for further usage and preparation of the drug.
Prevalence of HBsAg in Pregnant Women Monitored at the Mangol Health Center in the Urban Commune of Télimélé, Republic of Guinea
Authors: BARRY Alpha Arsida , SY Mamadou , CAMARA Taliby Dos , SOUMAH Alhassane Salématou
Published: December 2024

Hepatitis B is a viral disease caused by a DNA virus, belonging to the hepadnaviridae family whose only reservoir is humans. It is found in most human biological fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, saliva and finally in smaller quantities in milk and urine. This infection attacks the liver and is transmitted through sexual intercourse or contact with bodily fluids from an infected person. It constitutes a public health problem. This is an analytical and descriptive survey study. It took place from April 1 as of June 29, 2024.
Objective: The main objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of HBsAg in the population of pregnant women followed at the Mangol Health Center.
Method: For the detection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen in the tested serum, the Aichek type chromatographic immune test technique is used.
Results: At the end of the analyses, the results show that Out of a total of 234 pregnant women tested for hepatitis B, 5 were HBV carriers, or 2.14%, compared to 229 negative cases, or 97.86%. Married women, who were not only the most represented in this study, were also the most affected by HBV with 4 cases, or 80%. Housewives and hairdressers were the most affected by HBV with 2 cases respectively, or a respective prevalence of 20%. The 25-33 age group had 3 HBV positive cases, or 60%.
Heavy Metals in Atmospheric Dust Deposition in Qalyubia Governorate Egypt: Occurrence and Diverse Impacts
Authors: Hussein Alshimaa R. , Ibrahim Yasser H. , Osman R.
Published: December 2024

The southern delta region of Egypt has serious environmental and public health issues due to heavy metal pollution (El-Askary et al. 2021). The air in Qalyubia has higher concentrations of metals including cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) due to the region's intense agricultural practices and industrial discharges. Ring road and the Banha Cairo regional route also traverse the governorate with heavy traffic. The source, distribution, and ecological effects of heavy metals in the south Nile delta region are examined in this study (El-Gamal & Saleh 2016). Dust fall sampling allows us to pinpoint important pollution hotspots. The findings show a relationship between increased levels of contaminants and being located nearby industrial sites (Halmy 2019), showing that human activity is a significant source of pollution. We also evaluate the possible hazards to human health, especially for communities (Monib et al. 2024).
Posterior Placoid Chorioretinitis Secondary to Syphilis: A Case Report
Authors: Elkhoyaali.A  , Bouabadi.C  , Sadiki.S  , Fadlallah.O  , Daidai.S  , Mouzari.Y
Published: December 2024

There has been a resurgence of syphilis in recent times, despite a consistent decline in incidence over the past decade. Its estimated global prevalence of 1.11% has been increasing since mandatory reporting ended in 2000. The diagnosis of syphilis can be clinically challenging, and ocular manifestations of syphilis present in a multitude of ways and with varying degrees of severity. Ocular syphilis can manifest at any stage of the disease and may also be the sole presenting sign of syphilis.
Different Sources of Nitrogen for Rice Prouction: A Review
Authors: Thapa Nisha
Published: December 2024

Rice is the most important agricultural product in the country's economy. Nitrogen fertilization is a fundamental agronomic technique influencing rice crop yield and quality. Under the R-W system, crop yield declines and soil fertility gradually decreases when artificial N fertilizers are used without organic sources. Not only is the right fertilizer dosage critical for achieving the best results, but the timely application of nitrogen is also essential. Inorganic Nitrogen sources (NCU, PU, BU, Nano Urea) known to show quick results and organic Nitrogen sources (FYM, Poultry manure, Vermicompost, Green manure, Jeevamrutha, Biofertilizers) being slow-releasing and eco-friendly combined use of these sources has shown good results. Nitrogen must be applied as much as possible during the early and mid-tillering stages to maximize the number of panicles and during the reproductive stage to produce the ideal number of spikelets per panicle and % of filled spikelets.
Impact of Different Cultural Media on Growth and Sporulation of Magnaporthe grisea Causing Blast of Finger Millet
Authors: T. Tharana Poonacha , Poojashree  , Arti  , Nayak Anusha M. , Khan Farooq , Palanna K. B.
Published: December 2024

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana), a vital cereal crop, suffers significant yield losses due to blast disease caused by Magnaporthe grisea. Understanding the sporulation dynamics of the pathogen is crucial for elucidating its biology, infection mechanisms, and epidemiology, as well as for developing effective disease management strategies. Further, choice of medium can significantly impact the cost and efficiency of mass multiplication of fungal cultures. This study investigated the influence of different cultural media on the vegetative growth and conidial production of M. grisea. Among the tested media, oat meal agar, corn meal agar, rice bran agar and rice straw extract agar supported the growth of the pathogen. Whereas, oat meal agar demonstrated superior efficacy in promoting both mycelial proliferation and sporulation. The findings emphasize the role of optimized media in facilitating reliable and abundant spore production, essential for advancing research in understanding the multi dynamics involved in disease occurrence, pathogen management and resistance breeding. These results contribute to the development of integrative approaches to mitigate the impact of blast disease on finger millet production and ensure agricultural sustainability.
Biodiversity of Aspergillus Species and Aflatoxin Contamination in Stored Cereals and Legumes in Cameroon
Authors: Dongmo Landry Thierry Voukeng , Mahot Hermine , Dida Sylver Landry Lontsi , Gbaporo Fabrice Christian Gbaporo , Zemko Patrice Ngatsi , Ngata Laurence Ngadjui , Sanama Nathalie Mbega , Ambang Zachée , Boyomo Onana
Published: December 2024

In cereal and legume grains, the presence of Aspergillus spp. and their aflatoxins induce huge economic losses, health problems and environmental problems during storage.  Thanks to their mycotoxins, Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium cause losses of up to 25% of agricultural production worldwide, and 50% in developing countries. The aim of this work is to identify Aspergillus spp. isolated from maize, soybean, rice and peanut grains in storage, while examining their aflatoxin contamination levels. To this end, 25 composite samples of each grain were systematically collected from the five agro-ecological zones (AEZ) of Cameroon. Morphological characterization of Aspergillus spp. isolates was carried out using various specific culture media. Aflatoxin determination was carried out using standard aflatoxin extraction and ELISA strip quantification. The results show that, of the 100 composite samples collected, 99% were contaminated by a wide variety of molds, with a prevalence of 334/745 or 44.83% of Aspergillus spp. Of the Aspergillus spp. isolates obtained, 21.85% were derived from peanuts, 27.84% from rice, 21.56% from maize and 28.74% from soybeans. Aspergillus prevalence varied with agro-ecological zones (AEZs), and the most affected zones were AEZ V with 31.73% Aspergillus spp. isolates, and AEZ III with 28.14% Aspergillus spp. isolates. Aspergillus diversity according to AEZs shows that section Flavi is the most represented with 33% of isolates, successively followed by sections Nigri, Fumigati, Terrei, Candidi and Circumdati with 27%, 16%, 6%, 6% and 6% respectively. Examination of the total aflatoxin contamination levels of the various grains showed that, irrespective of the foodstuffs and AEZs, aflatoxin contamination was 100%. However, the highest mean concentration of aflatoxin was recorded in AEZ V (9.63 µg/kg). By commodity, samples of maize (9.46 µg/kg) followed by rice (8.92 µg/kg) showed the highest aflatoxin levels in Cameroon. In the end, all the foodstuffs showed a very high diversity of Aspergillus, and all the aflatoxin levels exceeded the regulatory thresholds in force.
Identification of microRNAs involved in pathways which characterize the expression subtypes of NSCLC
Authors: Halvorsen Ann Rita , Ragle Aure Miriam , Õjlert Åsa Kristina , Brustugun Odd Terje , Solberg Steinar , Nebdal Daniel , Helland Åslaug
Published: September 2019

Dysregulation of microRNAs is a common mechanism in the development of lung cancer, but the relationship between microRNAs and expression subtypes in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is poorly explored. Here, we analyzed microRNA expression from 241 NSCLC samples and correlated this with the expression subtypes of adenocarcinomas (AD) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) to identify microRNAs specific for each subtype. Gene set variation analysis and the hallmark gene set were utilized to calculate gene set scores specific for each sample, and these were further correlated with the expression of the subtype‐specific microRNAs. In ADs, we identified nine aberrantly regulated microRNAs in the terminal respiratory unit (TRU), three in the proximal inflammatory (PI), and nine in the proximal proliferative subtype (PP). In SCCs, 1, 5, 5, and 9 microRNAs were significantly dysregulated in the basal, primitive, classical, and secretory subtypes, respectively. The subtype‐specific microRNAs were highly correlated to specific gene sets, and a distinct pattern of biological processes with high immune activity for the AD PI and SCC secretory subtypes, and upregulation of cell cycle‐related processes in AD PP, SCC primitive, and SCC classical subtypes were found. Severalin silicopredicted targets within the gene sets were identified for the subtype‐specific microRNAs, underpinning the findings. The results were significantly validated in the LUAD (n = 492) and LUSC (n = 380) TCGA dataset (False discovery rates‐correctedP‐value < 0.05). Our study provides novel insight into how expression subtypes determined with discrete biological processes may be regulated by subtype‐specific microRNAs. These results may have importance for the development of combinatory therapeutic strategies for lung cancer patients.
Accelerating Medicines Partnership: Organizational Structure and Preliminary Data From the Phase 1 Studies of Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Hoover Paul , Der Evan , Berthier Celine C. , Arazi Arnon , Lederer James A. , James Judith A. , Buyon Jill , Petri Michelle , Belmont H. Michael , Izmirly Peter , Wofsy David , Hacohen Nir , Diamond Betty , Putterman Chaim , Davidson Anne
Published: September 2019

The Accelerating Medicines Partnership (AMP) Lupus Network was established as a partnership between the National Institutes of Health, pharmaceutical companies, nonprofit stakeholders, and lupus investigators across multiple academic centers to apply high‐throughput technologies to the analysis of renal tissue, urine, and blood from patients with lupus nephritis (LN). The AMP network provides publicly accessible data to the community with the goal of generating new scientific hypotheses and improving diagnostic and therapeutic tools so as to improve disease outcomes. We present here a description of the structure of the AMP Lupus Network and a summary of the preliminary results from the phase 1 studies. The successful completion of phase 1 sets the stage for analysis of a large cohort of LN samples in phase 2 and provides a model for establishing similar discovery cohorts.
High‐Performance White Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with High Efficiency, Low Efficiency Roll‐Off, and Superior Color Stability/Color Rendering Index by Strategic Design of Exciplex Hosts
Authors: Ying Shian , Xiao Shu , Yao Jingwen , Sun Qian , Dai Yanfeng , Yang Dezhi , Qiao Xianfeng , Chen Jiangshan , Zhu Tengfei , Ma Dongge
Published: September 2019

White organic light‐emitting diodes (WOLEDs) are one of the most cogent candidates for environment friendly and healthy solid‐state lighting due to many unique merits. Here, a strategic design of exciplex hosts is applied to simultaneously realize the superior color stability, high color rendering index (CRI), high efficiency, and low efficiency roll‐off properties of WOLEDs. The resulting WOLEDs emit the forward‐viewing maximum power efficiency (PE) of 59.9 lm W−1, and the PE still remains 45.3 and 31.9 lm W−1 at 1000 and 5000 cd m−2, respectively, exhibiting extremely low efficiency roll‐off. More remarkably, the devices also show high CRI over 80 and extremely stable spectral emission in the luminance ranges from 1000 to 15 000 cd m−2. The excellent performances indicate the validity of the structure design and provide a new route for the development of high‐performance WOLEDs.
Enhanced Interfacial Binding and Electron Extraction Using Boron‐Doped TiO2 for Highly Efficient Hysteresis‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Xiaoqiang , Ding Yong , Zhou Shijie , Zhang Bing , Cai Molang , Yao Jianxi , Hu Linhua , Wu Jihuai , Dai Songyuan , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja
Published: September 2019

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have witnessed astonishing improvement in power conversion efficiency (PCE), more recently, with advances in long‐term stability and scalable fabrication. However, the presence of an anomalous hysteresis behavior in the current density–voltage characteristic of these devices remains a key obstacle on the road to commercialization. Herein, sol–gel‐processed mesoporous boron‐doped TiO2 (B‐TiO2) is demonstrated as an improved electron transport layer (ETL) for PSCs for the reduction of hysteresis. The incorporation of boron dopant in TiO2 ETL not only reduces the hysteresis behavior but also improves PCE of the perovskite device. The simultaneous improvements are mainly ascribed to the following two reasons. First, the substitution of under‐coordinated titanium atom by boron species effectively passivates oxygen vacancy defects in the TiO2 ETL, leading to increased electron mobility and conductivity, thereby greatly facilitating electron transport. Second, the boron dopant upshifts the conduction band edge of TiO2, resulting in more efficient electron extraction with suppressed charge recombination. Consequently, a methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) photovoltaic device based on B‐TiO2 ETL achieves a higher efficiency of 20.51% than the 19.06% of the pure TiO2 ETL based device, and the hysteresis is reduced from 0.13% to 0.01% with the B‐TiO2 based device showing negligible hysteresis behavior.
Combinatorial design of chemical‐dependent protein switches for controlling intracellular electron transfer
Authors: Wu Bingyan , Atkinson Joshua T. , Kahanda Dimithree , Bennett George N. , Silberg Jonathan J.
Published: September 2019

One challenge with controlling electron flow in cells is the lack of biomolecules that directly couple environmental sensing to electron transfer efficiency. To overcome this component limitation, we randomly inserted the ligand binding domain (LBD) from the estrogen receptor (ER) into a 2Fe‐2S ferredoxin (Fd) and used a bacterial selection to identify protein variants that support electron transfer in cells. Mapping LBD insertion sites onto structure revealed that Fd tolerates domain insertion adjacent to or within the tetracysteine motif that coordinates the 2Fe‐2S metallocluster. With both protein designs, cellular electron transfer (ET) was enhanced by the ER antagonist 4‐hydroxytamoxifen, albeit to different extents. One variant arising from ER‐LBD insertion within the tetracysteine motif acquired an oxygen‐tolerant 2Fe‐2S cluster, suggesting that ET is regulated through post‐translational ligand binding. These metalloprotein switches are expected to be useful for achieving fast regulation of ET in engineered metabolic pathways and between electroactive bacteria and conductive materials.
Differences in root phenology and water depletion by an invasive grass explains persistence in a Mediterranean ecosystem
Authors: Phillips Michala L. , McNellis Brandon E. , Allen Michael F. , Allen Edith B.
Published: September 2019

Premise

Flexible phenological responses of invasive plants under climate change may increase their ability to establish and persist. A key aspect of plant phenology is the timing of root production, how it coincides with canopy development and subsequent water‐use. The timing of these events within species and across communities could influence the invasion process. We examined above‐ and belowground phenology of two species in southern California, the native shrub, Adenostoma fasciculatum, and the invasive perennial grass, Ehrharta calycina to investigate relative differences in phenology and water use.

Methods

We used normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) to track whole‐canopy activity across the landscape and sap flux sensors on individual chaparral shrubs to assess differences in aboveground phenology of both species. To determine differences in belowground activity, we used soil moisture sensors, minirhizotron imagery, and stable isotopes.

Results

The invasive grass depleted soil moisture earlier in the spring and produced longer roots at multiple depths earlier in the growing season than the native shrub. However, Adenostoma fasciculatum produced longer roots in the top 10 cm of soil profile in May. Aboveground activity of the two species peaked at the same time.

Conclusions

The fact that Ehrharta calycina possessed longer roots earlier in the season suggests that invasive plants may gain a competitive edge over native plants through early activity, while also depleting soil moisture earlier in the season. Depletion of soil moisture earlier by E. calycina suggests that invasive grasses could accelerate the onset of the summer drought in chaparral systems, assuring their persistence following invasion.
Homozygous variants in MAPRE2 and CDON in individual with skin folds, growth delay, retinal coloboma, and pyloric stenosis
Authors: Berkun Lina , Slae Mordechai , Mor‐Shaked Hagar , Koplewitz Benjamin , Eventov‐Friedman Smadar , Harel Tamar
Published: September 2019

Cases with multiple molecular diagnoses are challenging to diagnose clinically, yet may be resolved by unbiased exome sequencing analysis. We report an infant with developmental delay, severe growth delay, dysmorphic features, and multiple congenital anomalies including retinal coloboma, congenital pyloric stenosis, and circumferential skin creases. Exome sequencing identified a homozygous missense variant in MAPRE2 and a homozygous stopgain (nonsense) variant in CDON. Variants in MAPRE2, encoding a regulator of microtubule dynamics, lead to congenital symmetric circumferential skin creases type 2, with associated dysmorphism, small growth parameters, and congenital cardiac and genital anomalies. Monoallelic variants in CDON, encoding a coreceptor for sonic hedgehog, have been associated with autosomal dominant pituitary stalk interruption syndrome and holoprosencephaly. Cdon−/− mice have multiple eye defects including coloboma, consistent with the observed human phenotype. Thus, the complex phenotypic presentation of the infant may potentially be attributed to a dual molecular diagnosis. Furthermore, we present CDON as a candidate gene for coloboma formation in addition to the known holoprosencephaly phenotype, and propose to expand the allelic spectrum of CDON to variants associated with autosomal recessive inheritance in addition to dominant inheritance.
Electrochemically Facilitated Oxidative Coupling of Quinoxalin‐2(1H)‐Ones with Diarylphosphine Oxides and Pyrroles: A Green Protocol for C−P, C−C(sp2) Bond Formation
Authors: Hu Chen , Hong Gang , Zhou Chen , Tang Zhi‐Cong , Han Jian‐Wei , Wang Li‐Min
Published: September 2019

A metal‐free and oxidant‐free protocol for oxidative coupling of quinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones with diarylphosphine oxides and pyrroles via electrochemical dehydrogenation has been reported. A broad range of C3‐functionalized products were obtained in good to excellent yields.
Pd@tetrahedral hollow magnetic nanoparticles coated with N‐doped porous carbon as an efficient catalyst for hydrogenation of nitroarenes
Authors: Sadjadi Samahe , Heravi Majid M.
Published: September 2019

Hollow magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with tetrahedral morphology were synthesized and then covered by a shell prepared by coating with melamine–formaldehyde followed by the introduction of glucose‐derived carbon. Subsequently, Pd nanoparticles were immobilized and the core–shell nanocomposite was carbonized. The obtained magnetic catalyst was successfully applied for the hydrogenation of nitroarenes in aqueous media. To investigate the effects of the morphology of MNPs, the nature of carbon shell, and the order of incorporation of Pd nanoparticles, several control catalysts, including the MNPs with different morphologies (disc‐like and cylinder); MNPs coated with different shells (sole glucose‐derived carbon or melamine–formaldehyde carbon shell); and a nanocomposite, in which Pd was immobilized after carbonization, were prepared and examined as catalyst for the model reaction. To justify the observed different catalytic activities of the catalysts, their Pd loadings, leaching, and specific surface areas were compared. The results confirmed that tetrahedral MNPs coated with porous N‐rich carbon shell exhibited the best catalytic activity. The high catalytic activity of this catalyst was attributed to its high surface area and the interaction of N‐rich shell with Pd nanoparticles that led to the higher Pd loading and suppressed Pd leaching.
Scaled‐up, selective and green synthesis of sulfoxides under mild conditions using (CeIII‐MoVI)Ox/aniline hybrid rods as an efficient catalyst
Authors: Feghhi Aliyeh , Malakooti Reihaneh , Malakooti Sadeq
Published: September 2019

A novel hybrid material, (CeIII‐MoVI)Ox/aniline, with rod‐like morphology is synthesized through a wet chemical method using Mo3O10(C6H5NH3)2.2H2O nanowires as precursor. The synthesized materials are characterized by XRD, XPS, SEM, TEM, FTIR, Raman, UV–Vis, TGA, and elemental analysis. Also, their catalytic activities as a hybrid catalyst are tested in the selective oxidation of sulfides using hydrogen peroxide as a green oxidant. The proposed novel hybrid catalyst shows an excellent performance under green conditions at mild temperature. Furthermore, the scalability of the oxidation reaction is shown by making multi‐gram quantities at optimized conditions.
Microencapsulation of oil soluble polyaspartic acid ester and isophorone diisocyanate and their application in self‐healing anticorrosive epoxy resin
Authors: Guo Maolian , He Yayue , Wang Jianping , Zhang Xingxiang , Li Wei
Published: September 2019

Isocyanate and amine solution are microencapsulated, respectively, via in situ polymerization to realize the self‐healing function in epoxy matrix. First, the isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) microcapsules prepared with different core/shell ratios, emulsifier dosages and emulsification rates are characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM). They exhibit integral spherical shape when the core/shell ratio is 3:1 and emulsifier concentration is 2.52 wt %, and the diameter of IPDI microcapsules ranged from 2.66 μm to 11.25 μm is manufactured by adjusting emulsification rate over the range of 3000–9000 rpm. Besides, during the microencapsulation of polyaspartic acid ester (PAE), urea, tung oil, as well as aqueous isocyanate are proposed to improve the stability of PAE emulsion. SEM and FTIR results reveal that aqueous isocyanate can react with partial PAE and form polyurea (PU) layer to take protection effectively. Further, IPDI‐PAE dual microcapsules are incorporated into epoxy coatings, the self‐healing and anticorrosion performance of coatings with various amounts of microcapsules are investigated systematically. It was found that the degree of repair and anticorrosion are increased with increasing microcapsules loading, and the appropriate amount of microcapsules addition is 15 wt %, which corresponding to 93% repair efficiency. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48478.
The juvenile hormone receptor as a target of juvenoid “insect growth regulators”
Authors: Jindra Marek , Bittova Lenka
Published: September 2019

Synthetic compounds that mimic the action of juvenile hormones (JHs) are founding members of a class of insecticides called insect growth regulators (IGRs). Like JHs, these juvenoids block metamorphosis of insect larvae to reproductive adults. Many biologically active juvenoids deviate in their chemical structure considerably from the sesquiterpenoid JHs, raising questions about the mode of action of such JH mimics. Despite the early deployment of juvenoid IGRs in the mid‐1970s, their molecular effect could not be understood until recent discoveries of JH signaling through an intracellular JH receptor, namely the ligand‐binding transcription factor Methoprene‐tolerant (Met). Here, we briefly overview evidence defining three widely employed and chemically distinct juvenoid IGRs (methoprene, pyriproxyfen, and fenoxycarb), as agonist ligands of the JH receptor. We stress that knowledge of the target molecule is critical for using these compounds both as insecticides and as research tools.
Antiviral defense against Cypovirus 1 (Reoviridae) infection in the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Swevers Luc , Feng Min , Ren Feifei , Sun Jingchen
Published: September 2019

Recent years have shown a large increase in studies of infection of the silkworm (Bombyx mori) with Cypovirus 1 (previously designated as B. mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus), that causes serious damage in sericulture. Cypovirus 1 has a single‐layered capsid that encapsulates a segmented double‐strand RNA (dsRNA) genome which are attractive features for the establishment of a biotechnological platform for the production of specialized gene silencing agents, either as recombinant viruses or as viral‐like particles with nonreplicative dsRNA cargo. For both combatting viral disease and application of Cypovirus‐based pest control, however, a better understanding is needed of the innate immune response caused by Cypovirus infection of the midgut of lepidopteran larvae. Studies of deep sequencing of viral small RNAs have indicated the importance of the RNA interference pathway in the control of Cypovirus infection although many functional aspects still need to be elucidated and conclusive evidence is lacking. A considerable number of transcriptome studies were carried out that revealed a complex response that hitherto remains uncharacterized because of a dearth in functional studies. Also, the uptake mechanism of Cypovirus by the midgut cells remains unclarified because of contrasting mechanisms revealed by electron microscopy and functional studies. The field will benefit from an increase in functional studies that will depend on transgenic silkworm technology and reverse genetics systems for Cypovirus 1.
Heightened Integration of POM‐based Metal–Organic Frameworks with Functionalized Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Superior Energy Storage
Authors: Li Xiao , Zhou Kun‐Feng , Tong Zhi‐Bo , Yang Xi‐Ya , Chen Cui‐Ying , Shang Xue‐Hui , Sha Jing‐Quan
Published: September 2019

To increase the conductivity of polyoxometalate‐based metal–organic frameworks (POMOFs) and promote their applications in the field of energy storage, herein, a simple approach was employed to improve their overall electrochemical performances by introducing a functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT‐COOH). A new POMOF compound, [Cu18(trz)12Cl3(H2O)2][PW12O40] (CuPW), was successfully synthesized, then the size‐matched functionalized SWNT–COOH was introduced to fabricate CuPW/SWNT–COOH composite (PMNT–COOH) by employing a simple sonication‐driven periodic functionalization strategy. When the PMNT–COOH nanocomposite was used as the anode material for Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), PMNT–COOH(3) (CuPWNC:SWNT‐COOH=3:1) showed superior behavior of energy storage, a high reversible capacity of 885 mA h g−1 up to a cycle life of 170 cycles. The electrochemical results indicate that the uniform packing of SWNT–COOH provided a favored contact between the electrolyte and the electrode, resulting in enhanced specific capacity during lithium insertion/extraction process. This fabrication of PMNT–COOH nanocomposite opens new avenues for the design and synthesis of new generation electrode materials for LIBs.
Optical‐Dielectric Duple Bistable Switches: Photoluminescence of Reversible Phase Transition Molecular Material
Authors: Zhang Yao‐Zu , Sun Dong‐Sheng , Chen Xiao‐Gang , Gao Ji‐Xing , Hua Xiu‐Ni , Liao Wei‐Qiang
Published: September 2019

Molecular optical‐dielectric duple bistable switches are photoelectric (dielectric and fluorescent) multifunctional materials that can simultaneously convert optical and electrical signals in one device for seamless integration. However, exploring optical‐dielectric duple channels of dielectric and photoluminescence is still a bigger challenge than single dielectric or photoluminescence bistable ones, which are hardly reported but probably will be heavily researched owing to the new generation artificial intelligence development needs in the future. Herein, a new optical‐dielectric duple bistable switches material, [(CH3)3NCH2CH3]2MnCl4 (I), was obtained by a simple method for volatilization of solvents. Variable temperature single crystal X‐ray analysis indicates that material I has a reversible bistable structure (order‐disorder structure phase transition) corresponding to switching “ON′′ and ”OFF′′. Unlike the single dielectric bistable structures that were previously reported, material I also own bistable features in terms of fluorescence property. This material enriches the specific examples of photoelectric duple function switch materials and facilitates the development of required devices.
Systematic review of functional outcome and quality of life after total pancreatectomy
Authors: Scholten L , Stoop T F , Del Chiaro M , Busch O R , Eijck C , Molenaar I Q , Vries J H , Besselink M G
Published: September 2019

Background

Surgeons have traditionally been reluctant to perform total pancreatectomy because of concerns for brittle diabetes and poor quality of life (QoL). Several recent studies have suggested that outcomes following total pancreatectomy have improved, but a systematic review is lacking.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken of studies reporting on outcomes after total pancreatectomy for all indications, except chronic pancreatitis. PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), and Cochrane Library were searched (2005–2018). Endpoints included functional outcome and QoL.

Results

A total of 21 studies, including 1536 patients, fulfilled the eligibility criteria. During a median follow-up of 20·8 (range 1·5–96·0) months, 18·6 per cent (45 of 242 patients) were readmitted for endocrine-related morbidity, with associated mortality in 1·6 per cent (6 of 365 patients). No diabetes-related mortality was reported in studies including only patients treated after 2005. Symptoms related to exocrine insufficiency were reported by 43·5 per cent (143 of 329 patients) during a median follow-up of 15·9 (1·5–96·0) months. Overall QoL, reported by 102 patients with a median follow-up of 28·6 (6·0–66·0) months, using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire, showed a moderately reduced summary score of 76 per cent, compared with a general population score of 86 per cent (P = 0·004).

Conclusion

Overall QoL after total pancreatectomy is affected adversely, in particular by the considerable impact of diarrhoea that requires better treatment. There is also room for improvement in the management of diabetes after total pancreatectomy, particularly with regards to prevention of diabetes-related morbidity.
Trauma models to identify major trauma and mortality in the prehospital setting
Authors: Sewalt C A , Venema E , Wiegers E J A , Lecky F E , Schuit S C E , den Hartog D , Steyerberg E W , Lingsma H F
Published: September 2019

Background

Patients with major trauma might benefit from treatment in a trauma centre, but early identification of major trauma (Injury Severity Score (ISS) over 15) remains difficult. The aim of this study was to undertake an external validation of existing prognostic models for injured patients to assess their ability to predict mortality and major trauma in the prehospital setting.

Methods

Prognostic models were identified through a systematic literature search up to October 2017. Injured patients transported by Emergency Medical Services to an English hospital from the Trauma Audit and Research Network between 2013 and 2016 were included. Outcome measures were major trauma (ISS over 15) and in-hospital mortality. The performance of the models was assessed in terms of discrimination (concordance index, C-statistic) and net benefit to assess the clinical usefulness.

Results

A total of 154 476 patients were included to validate six previously proposed prediction models. Discriminative ability ranged from a C-statistic value of 0·602 (95 per cent c.i. 0·596 to 0·608) for the Mechanism, Glasgow Coma Scale, Age and Arterial Pressure model to 0·793 (0·789 to 0·797) for the modified Rapid Emergency Medicine Score (mREMS) in predicting in-hospital mortality (11 882 patients). Major trauma was identified in 52 818 patients, with discrimination from a C-statistic value of 0·589 (0·586 to 0·592) for mREMS to 0·735 (0·733 to 0·737) for the Kampala Trauma Score in predicting major trauma. None of the prediction models met acceptable undertriage and overtriage rates.

Conclusion

Currently available prehospital trauma models perform reasonably in predicting in-hospital mortality, but are inadequate in identifying patients with major trauma. Future research should focus on which patients would benefit from treatment in a major trauma centre.
Diagnostic performance of MRI and histology in assessment of deep lipomatous tumours
Authors: Cairncross L , Snow H A , Strauss D C , Smith M J F , Sjokvist O , Messiou C , Thway K , Hayes A J
Published: September 2019

Background

Deep lipomatous tumours can be benign lipomas or intermediate/locally recurring atypical lipomatous tumours (ALTs). Differentiating between these two entities clinically and radiologically is difficult. The aims of this study were to report a series of deep lipomatous tumours, comparing the clinical, radiological and pathological features of ALTs and lipomas; and to predict the likelihood of a lipomatous tumour being ALT based on anatomical site and MRI characteristics.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of patients with deep lipomatous tumours presenting over 6 years to a tertiary sarcoma centre, with preoperative MRI, and preoperative or postoperative histology including MDM2 gene analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and accuracy in diagnosing ALT were calculated for MRI and histopathological features.

Results

Some 248 patients were included; 81 (32·7 per cent) had a final diagnosis of ALT. ALTs were larger than lipomas (median 19 versus 10 cm; P < 0·001); there was no ALT smaller than 5 cm. A tumour presenting in the lower limb was more likely to be an ALT than a lesion at any other site (48·4 versus 13·5 per cent; P < 0·001). In patients with lipomatous tumours at sites other than the lower limbs, MRI had a negative predictive value of 95 per cent for excluding ALT.

Conclusion

Despite concern, most deep lipomatous tumours (nearly 70 per cent) are benign lipomas. Certain features imply that tumours are almost never ALT: smaller than 5 cm or located outside the lower limb with no suspicious characteristics on MRI. Tumours with these features might safely and confidently be managed outside tertiary sarcoma centres.
Dysregulation of the actin scavenging system and inhibition of DNase activity following severe thermal injury
Authors: Dinsdale R J , Hazeldine J , Al Tarrah K , Hampson P , Devi A , Ermogenous C , Bamford A L , Bishop J , Watts S , Kirkman E , Dalle Lucca J J , Midwinter M , Woolley T , Foster M , Lord J M , Moiemen N , Harrison P
Published: September 2019

Background

Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is not found in healthy subjects, but is readily detected after thermal injury and may contribute to the risk of multiple organ failure. The hypothesis was that a postburn reduction in DNase protein/enzyme activity could contribute to the increase in cfDNA following thermal injury.

Methods

Patients with severe burns covering at least 15 per cent of total body surface area were recruited to a prospective cohort study within 24 h of injury. Blood samples were collected from the day of injury for 12 months.

Results

Analysis of blood samples from 64 patients revealed a significant reduction in DNase activity on days 1–28 after injury, compared with healthy controls. DNase protein levels were not affected, suggesting the presence of an enzyme inhibitor. Further analysis revealed that actin (an inhibitor of DNase) was present in serum samples from patients but not those from controls, and concentrations of the actin scavenging proteins gelsolin and vitamin D-binding protein were significantly reduced after burn injury. In a pilot study of ten military patients with polytrauma, administration of blood products resulted in an increase in DNase activity and gelsolin levels.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest a novel biological mechanism for the accumulation of cfDNA following thermal injury by which high levels of actin released by damaged tissue cause a reduction in DNase activity. Restoration of the actin scavenging system could therefore restore DNase activity, and reduce the risk of cfDNA-induced host tissue damage and thrombosis.
Long-term follow-up of two randomized trials comparing laparoscopic Nissen 360° with anterior 90° partial fundoplication
Authors: Hopkins R J , Irvine T , Jamieson G G , Devitt P G , Watson D I
Published: September 2019

Background

The side-effects of Nissen fundoplication have led to modifications, including partial fundoplications such as an anterior 90° wrap. Five-year follow-up of two randomized trials suggested fewer side-effects following anterior 90° partial fundoplication, but better reflux control after Nissen fundoplication. However, longer-term outcomes have not been reported. This study combined data from previous trials to determine 10-year outcomes.

Methods

From 1999 to 2003, 191 patients were enrolled in two randomized trials comparing anterior 90° partial versus Nissen fundoplication. Trial protocols were similar, and data were combined to determine long-term clinical outcomes. Patients completed annual questionnaires assessing dysphagia, heartburn, medications, satisfaction and other symptoms. Visual analogue scales (0–10), a composite dysphagia score (0–45) and yes/no responses were used.

Results

Of the 191 patients, 152 (79·6 per cent) were available for 10-year follow-up. After anterior 90° fundoplication, patients reported less dysphagia to solids (score 2·03 versus 3·18 for the Nissen procedure; P = 0·037). Heartburn scores were lower after Nissen fundoplication (1·90 versus 2·83 for anterior 90° fundoplication; P = 0·035) and fewer patients required proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (22 versus 39 per cent respectively; P = 0·035). Satisfaction scores were similar for both anterior 90° and Nissen groups (7·45 versus 7·36 respectively; P = 0·566), and the majority considered their original decision for surgery to be correct (86 versus 84 per cent; P = 0·818).

Conclusion

After 10 years, both procedures achieved similar success as measured by global satisfaction measures. Patients who had a Nissen fundoplication reported more dysphagia, whereas more heartburn and PPI consumption were reported after anterior 90° fundoplication. Registration numbers: ACTRN12607000298415 and ACTRN12607000304437 (http://www.anzctr.org.au/).
miR‐106b‐5p promotes aggressive progression of hepatocellular carcinoma via targeting RUNX3
Authors: Gu Hao , Gu Shensen , Zhang Xinlong , Zhang Songjiang , Zhang Dongming , Lin Junsheng , Hasengbayi Saiken , Han Wei
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives

The roles of microRNA(miR)‐106b‐5p in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. We aimed here to investigate the clinical significance of miR‐106b‐5p expression in HCC and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Expression levels of miR‐106b‐5p in 108 HCC clinical samples by quantitative real‐time reverse transcription PCR. Associations of miR‐106b‐5p expression with various clinicopathological features and patients' prognosis were evaluated by Chi‐square test, Kaplan‐Meier, and Cox proportional regression analyses, respectively. The target gene of miR‐106b‐5p and their functions in HCC cells were investigated by luciferase reporter, CCK‐8, and Transwell Matrigel invasion assays.

Results

miR‐106b‐5p expression was markedly higher in HCC tissues than in noncancerous adjacent liver tissues (P < .001). miR‐106b‐5p upregulation was significantly associated with advanced TNM stage (P = .02), short recurrence‐free (P = .005), and overall (P = .001) survivals. Importantly, miR‐106b‐5p expression was an independent predictor of poor prognosis (P < .05). RUNX3 was identified as a direct target gene of miR‐106b‐5p in HCC cells. Functionally, miR‐106b‐5p upregulation promoted the viability and invasion of HCC cells, while enforced RUNX3 expression reversed the oncogenic effects of miR‐106b‐5p overexpression.

Conclusions

miR‐106b‐5p may serve as a potent prognostic marker for tumor recurrence and survival of HCC patients. miR‐106b‐5p may exert an oncogenic role in HCC via regulating its target gene RUNX3.
Ionic Carbon Nitrides in Solar Hydrogen Production and Organic Synthesis: Exciting Chemistry and Economic Advantages
Authors: Savateev Aleksandr , Antonietti Markus
Published: September 2019

Molecular photoredox complexes from the platinum group paved the way of organic photocatalysis. However, high price and difficulties related to removal and recycling hamper application of such complexes on the larger scale. Carbon nitride semiconductor photocatalysts are deprived at large extent of such limitations. Herein, we summarize application of ionic carbon nitrides in photocatalysis. A salt‐like structure of ionic carbon nitrides comprising negatively charged poly(heptazine imide) anion and positively charged alkali metal cations gives rise to a number of unique properties and high activity in photocatalysis. The performance of ionic carbon nitrides in H2 generation is up to 100 times higher compared with the covalent graphitic carbon nitrides. Eleven photocatalytic reactions mediated by ionic carbon nitrides and their long‐lived radicals are reviewed. Economy of using carbon nitride photocatalysts in comparison with the photoredox complexes from the platinum group has been analyzed.