bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumption of information provided by mass media and professional competence of a student
Authors: Romanova Natalya Gennad'evna
Published: October 2020

  The subject field of this article is the problem of formation and actualization of professional competences of future specialists in the area of advertising and public relations in the context of peculiarities and dynamics of information consumption of modern youth. Articulation of the problem on the one hand is substantiated by the relevant vectors of scientific works – transformation of the practices of media consumption by mass audience, crisis of confidence in broadcast media and the institution of journalism, quality and specificity of modern media texts, professional competence of the representatives of mass media; whole on the other hand – by the need to resolve practical tasks in educational process in terms of formation of philological fundamentals of professional activity. In the course of this research, the author applied sociological methods. The respondents became the firs-year students majoring “Advertising and Public Relations”, who proceeded with discipline “Theory and Practice of Mass Media”. The first part of the questionnaire allowed determining the general attitude to the phenomenon of mass information and the key behavioral patterns of the students as its consumers, as well as the levels of identification and personification of the modern mass media. The second part was focused on the criteria of selection and the desired set of characteristics established by mass media, as well as potential development prospects of mass media. As a result of the conducted survey, the author determined variations of the content-thematic structure of information requests, range of time input, “standard” requirements of young audience to modern media sources, overall picture of consumer preferences of the students by the type of mass media, which altogether defines the relevant model of media consumption. The article reveals the problematic areas within the system of perceptions of modern media, which are substantiated particularly by insufficient level of information culture among the first-year students: difficulties with identification of the representatives of mass media sphere, stereotypical assessments and “desirable” qualities of new mass media. The conclusions and recommendations are formulated on practical implementation of the acquired results with regards to solution of the task of formation professional communication qualities of a specialists of media sphere.  
Government Expenditure and Regional Economic Growth: The Direction of Causality
Authors: Mose Naftaly
Published: October 2020

This study examines the link between government expenditure and regional economic growth, over the period 2013 to 2017. Gross County Product per capita growth is used as indicator of regional economic growth. This study used Error Correction Model and Engle and Granger framework two step procedure to investigate the long-run and short-run equilibrium relationship between expenditure and regional growth. The analysis reveals that expenditure and regional growth are co-integrated and, hence a long-run equilibrium relationship exist between them. Non-devolved expenditure is found to be significant in determining regional growth and growth significantly affect non-devolved in short-run. Further, short-run uni-directional causality was detected between capital, recurrent expenditures and growth. This study argues that expansionary government expenditure accelerates regional economic growth in long-run. The absence of a long-run causality moving from growth to components of expenditure implies that economic growth macroeconomic policies can be implemented without adversely affecting the size of government expenditure.
Distribution and Variation of Potassium in Black Soil at Different Stages of Crop Growth in Maize (Zea mays)
Authors: Gnanasundari R. , Sellamuthu K. M. , Malathi P.
Published: October 2020

Potassium (K) is the third most important major plant nutrient with numerous functions. The availability of K depends on concentration relative to that of Ca2+ and Mg2+ than on the total quantity of K present. The level of extraction of K by different extractants followed the order: boiling HNO3 (1 M) > Non- exchangeable K > Exchangeable K > Water soluble K. The amount of K extracted by different extractants was more in non- calcareous soil followed by calcareous soil. To know the K availability in both the soils, a pot culture experiment was conducted with the two soils (i.e., calcareous and non-calcareous) to know the response of maize to K application. Results showed that a significant higher value of available K in calcareous soil under potassium @ 120 kg K2O ha-1 treatment followed by 80 kg K2O ha-1 in non-calcareous soil irrespective of critical growth stages of hybrid maize. Among the K fractions, water soluble K was the least in magnitude and lattice K was found to be dominant one. Application of 120 kg K2O ha-1 recorded the highest potassium in all the K fractions (water soluble K, exchangeable K and nitric acid soluble K) in all stages of crop growth in calcareous soil whereas in non-calcareous soil 80 kg K2O ha-1 recorded high in all the fractions and the results emphasizing the importance of potassium in soil. Grain and straw yield of hybrid maize were significantly higher under 120 kg K2O ha-1in calcareous soil and 80 kg K2O ha-1 in non- calcareous soil which is well evidenced by a yield increase of 37.7 % over control. A significant and positive correlation was existing between all fractions of potassium viz., HNO3 soluble K, non- exchangeable K, exchangeable K, water soluble K and available K with grain and stover yield in calcareous soil and non- calcareous soil. It was found that calcareous soil showed comparatively better response to the application of potassium especially in water soluble K with an R2 value of 0.917** followed by HNO3 soluble K with a R2 value of 0.895**. Therefore, the present investigation stresses the vital importance of inclusion of higher dose of potassium in calcareous soil for maintaining soil K dynamics and enhancing yield of hybrid maize so as to sustain soil productivity.
Evaluation of Some Phytogenic Feed Supplements for Lean Meat Production in Commercial Broiler Chicken
Authors: Mallika E. Naga , Kumari K. Naga Raja , Sudheer K. , Sunidhi . , Ravikanth K. , Ganguly Bhaskar
Published: October 2020

Chicken meat tends to be high in polyunsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol, which may increase the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke and other associated diseases. A study was conducted for 42 days to evaluate the efficacy of dietary supplementation of two phytogenic feed supplements viz. AV/LMP/10 and AV/HLP/16 (M/s Ayurvet Limited, India) for their ability to produce lean meat in commercial broiler chicken. One hundred and fifty (150) one-day old Cobb-400 broiler chicks were randomly allocated to five equal groups. All the groups were fed standard basal ration. T0 was control group (without treatment), groups T1 and T2 were supplemented with AV/LMP/10 @ 500 g/ton and 1 kg/ton of feed, respectively. Groups T3 and T4 were supplemented with AV/HLP/16 @ 1 kg/ton and 1.5 kg/ton of feed, respectively. On day 42, significantly better (P<0.05) results were obtained in the treated groups (T1-T4) in terms of body weight (2118.10±0.61, 2159.20±0.34, 2098.90±0.41, and 2180.40±0.56 g), total protein (19.10±0.56, 19.93±1.18, 20.80±0.36, and 21.04±0.64%), crude fat (1.25 ±0.25, 1.25 ± 0.31, 0.92 ± 0.24, and 1.03 ± 0.03%), pH (6.01 ± 0.07, 5.93 ± 0.09, 5.78 ± 0.08, and 6.06 ± 0.09), TBARS value (1.11±0.07, 1.11±0.05, 1.06±0.06, and 1.08±0.06 mg/Kg), cholesterol (54.19±1.11, 35.72±1.71, 45.61±1.54, and 36.09±1.045 mg/dL), HDL cholesterol (16.70±0.56, 12.61±1.28, 14.16±1.02, and 15.59±0.57 mg/dL) and total lipids (1.60±0.13, 1.56±0.22, 1.64±0.15, and 2.03±0.12 mg/g) in comparison to the untreated group (2050.80±0.71 g, 18.15±0.41%, 1.66 ± 0.48%, 6.07 ± 0.08, 1.18±0.09 mg/Kg, 62.36±0.88 mg/dL, 24.25±0.54 mg/dL and 2.42±0.18 mg/g). FCR and slaughter parameters varied non-significantly among different groups. The meat: bone ratio was numerically higher in the treated groups T1-4 (2.01±0.20, 2.09 ±0.19, 2.16±0.20 and 1.89±0.35) as compared to the control group (1.80±0.18). The highest protein content was obtained in T4 (21.04%) followed by T3 (20.80%), T2 (19.93%), T1 (19.10%) and lowest in T0 (18.15%), while highest crude fat was obtained in the muscles of the control group T0 (1.66%) followed by T1 and T2 (1.25%), T4 (1.03%) and T3 (0.92). Overall sensory acceptability of meat also improved in the supplemented groups. From the present study, it could be concluded that the phytogenic formulations AV/LMP/10 and AV/HLP/16 were effective in lean meat production in broiler chicken.
Thermal Indices of Fodder Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Cultivars in Bundelkhand Region of Central India
Authors: Rai Suchit K. , Reetu . , Prabhu G.
Published: October 2020

The present study was conducted to identify the impact of temperature indices on different phenophases and yield of cowpea varieties growing in Jhansi region of Uttar Pradesh, India. The cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is a warm season legume crop grown in arid and semi-arid regions of India. Traditionally, it is very important as a staple food and source of fodder for the African continent, India and other semi-arid regions. A field experiment was conducted during rainyseasons (July to October) of 2010 and 2011 to determine the thermal indices for fodder cowpea varieties at Central Research Farm, ICAR-IGFRI, Jhansi. All the data were subjected to ANOVA using PROC GLM procedure in SAS (v 9.3). In ANOVA, varieties, date of sowing and year effect is considered as fixed factors and replication as random factor. Crop sown on 12th July took higher accumulated growing degree days (GDD) during 50% flowering (1111°C days) and maturity (2074°C days) as compared to crop sown during 4th August. Green fodder yield of Kohinoor recorded highest heat use efficiency (HUE) (32.4 kg ha-1°C day-1) over BL-2 and EC-4216 at the time of 50% flowering while it is at par with BL-1. From the results, it is found that early sownfodder cowpea recorded maximum duration, heat unit and heat use efficiency at maturity. The Variety Kohinoor recorded the highest grain yield, lowest calendar days and highest HUE as compared to all other varieties.
Eco-Friendly Cinnamaldehyde Based Emulsion for Phytopathogenic Bacterial Growth Inhibitor
Authors: Mohammed Tahany G. M. , Rahman A. F. Abd El-
Published: November 2020

The formulation plays an essential role in achieving the successful delivery and biological activity of any plant protection products. This study aimed to develop a cinnamaldehyde water-based formulation (oil-in-water emulsion) via a high-shear stirring emulsification method. Cinnamaldehyde emulsion was successfully prepared and characterized using different physicochemical parameters (emulsion stability, persistent foaming, accelerated storage at 54°C for 2 weeks, and stability at 0°Cfor one week, as well as pH, surface tension, flash point, viscosity, and particle size distribution). Also, the antibacterial activity was verified in vitro against some important phytopathogenic bacteria; Erwinia amylovora, Pectobacterium aroidearum, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Ralstonia solanacearum using well diffusion method. In addition, the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) was determined by the twofold dilution method. The results revealed that the prepared formulation showed good storage stability, exhibited non-Newtonian shear-thinning behavior and promising antibacterial activity. The inhibition zones against the tested phytopathogenic bacteria were ranged from 10.3 mm to 52.0 mm. MICs of the prepared formulation were 15.63, 31.25, 62.5, and 15.63 μl/ml against Erwinia amylovora, Pectobacterium aroidearum, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Ralstonia solanacearum, respectively. Our results provide an environmentally friendly formulation with promising activity to control the agricultural crop disease.
Mass spectrometry‐based abundance atlas of ABC transporters in human liver, gut, kidney, brain and skin
Authors: Al‐Majdoub Zubida M. , Achour Brahim , Couto Narciso , Howard Martyn , Elmorsi Yasmine , Scotcher Daniel , Alrubia Sarah , El‐Khateeb Eman , Vasilogianni Areti‐Maria , Alohali Noura , Neuhoff Sibylle , Schmitt Lutz , Rostami‐Hodjegan Amin , Barber Jill
Published: October 2020

ABC transporters (ATP‐binding cassette transporter) traffic drugs and their metabolites across membranes, making ABC transporter expression levels a key factor regulating local drug concentrations in different tissues and individuals. Yet, quantification of ABC transporters remains challenging because they are large and low‐abundance transmembrane proteins. Here, we analysed 200 samples of crude and membrane‐enriched fractions from human liver, kidney, intestine, brain microvessels and skin, by label‐free quantitative mass spectrometry. We identified 32 (out of 48) ABC transporters: ABCD3 was the most abundant in liver, whereas ABCA8, ABCB2/TAP1 and ABCE1 were detected in all tissues. Interestingly, this atlas unveiled that ABCB2/TAP1 may have TAP2‐independent functions in the brain and that biliary atresia (BA) and control livers have quite different ABC transporter profiles. We propose that meaningful biological information can be derived from a direct comparison of these data sets.
SIK2 represses AKT/GSK3β/β‐catenin signaling and suppresses gastric cancer by inhibiting autophagic degradation of protein phosphatases
Authors: Dai Xiao‐man , Zhang Yan‐hui , Lin Xiao‐han , Huang Xiao‐xing , Zhang Yi , Xue Chao‐rong , Chen Wan‐nan , Ye Jian‐xin , Lin Xin‐jian , Lin Xu
Published: October 2020

Salt‐inducible kinase 2 (SIK2) is an important regulator in various intracellular signaling pathways related to apoptosis, tumorigenesis and metastasis. However, the involvement of SIK2 in gastric tumorigenesis and the functional linkage with gastric cancer (GC) progression remain to be defined. Here, we report that SIK2 was significantly downregulated in human GC tissues, and reduced SIK2 expression was associated with poor prognosis of patients. Overexpression of SIK2 suppressed the migration and invasion of GC cells, whereas knockdown of SIK2 enhanced cell migratory and invasive capability as well as metastatic potential. These changes in the malignant phenotype resulted from the ability of SIK2 to suppress epithelial–mesenchymal transition via inhibition of AKT/GSK3β/β‐catenin signaling. The inhibitory effect of SIK2 on AKT/GSK3β/β‐catenin signaling was mediated primarily through inactivation of AKT, due to its enhanced dephosphorylation by the upregulated protein phosphatases PHLPP2 and PP2A. The upregulation of PHLPP2 and PP2A was attributable to SIK2 phosphorylation and activation of mTORC1, which inhibited autophagic degradation of these two phosphatases. These results suggest that SIK2 acts as a tumor suppressor in GC and may serve as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for this tumor.
Methylthioadenosine (MTA) boosts cell‐specific productivities of Chinese hamster ovary cultures: dosage effects on proliferation, cell cycle and gene expression
Authors: Verhagen Natascha , Zieringer Julia , Takors Ralf
Published: October 2020

A major goal for process and cell engineering in the biopharmaceutical industry is enhancing production through increasing volumetric and cell‐specific productivities (CSP). Here, we present 5′‐deoxy‐5′‐(methylthio)adenosine (MTA), the degradation product of S‐(5′‐adenosyl)‐L‐methionine (SAM), as a highly attractive native additive which can boost CSP by 79% when added to exponentially growing cells at a concentration of 250–300 μm. Notably, cell viability and cell size remain higher than in non‐treated cultures. In addition, cell cycle arrests first in S‐, then in G2‐phase before levelling out compared to non‐treated cultivations. Intensive differential gene analysis reveals that expression of genes for cytoskeleton mediated proteins and vesicle transport is amplified by treatment. Furthermore, the interaction of MTA with cell proliferation additionally stimulated recombinant protein formation. The results may serve as a promising starting point for further developments in process and cell engineering to boost productivity.
Calculating and estimating second cancer risk from breast radiotherapy using Monte Carlo code with internal body scatter for each out‐of‐field organ
Authors: Takata Takeshi , Shiraishi Kenshiro , Kumagai Shinobu , Arai Norikazu , Kobayashi Takenori , Oba Hiroshi , Okamoto Takahide , Kotoku Jun’ichi
Published: October 2020

Out‐of‐field organs are not commonly designated as dose calculation targets during radiation therapy treatment planning, but they might entail risks of second cancer. Risk components include specific internal body scatter, which is a dominant source of out‐of‐field doses, and head leakage, which can be reduced by external shielding. Our simulation study quantifies out‐of‐field organ doses and estimates second cancer risks attributable to internal body scatter in whole‐breast radiotherapy (WBRT) with or without additional regional nodal radiotherapy (RNRT), respectively, for right and left breast cancer using Monte Carlo code PHITS. Simulations were conducted using a complete whole‐body female model. Second cancer risk was estimated using the calculated doses with a concept of excess absolute risk. Simulation results revealed marked differences between WBRT alone and WBRT plus RNRT in out‐of‐field organ doses. The ratios of mean doses between them were as large as 3.5–8.0 for the head and neck region and about 1.5–6.6 for the lower abdominal region. Potentially, most out‐of‐field organs had excess absolute risks of less than 1 per 10,000 persons‐year. Our study surveyed the respective contributions of internal body scatter to out‐of‐field organ doses and second cancer risks in breast radiotherapy on this intact female model.
Effect of protective glasses on radiation dose to eye lenses during whole breast irradiation
Authors: Nakamura Tokiko , Suzuki Shoichi , Kato Kyoichi , Pongnapang Napapong , Hayashi Naoki , Kurokawa Chie , Kobayashi Ikuo , Negishi Toru , Matsunami Tamaki
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The efficacy of radiotherapy for breast cancer has greatly improved owing to better irradiation methods. Radiotherapy aims to deliver therapeutic doses to predetermined target volumes while sparing surrounding healthy tissues. However, there are few reports on radiation exposure to eye lenses, and the recommended exposure limits to ocular lens have been substantially reduced in recent years. This study aimed to investigate the amount of radiation exposure to eye lenses using optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) and determine whether wearing special protective devices to protect the eyes, as an organ at risk, during whole breast irradiation, is necessary.

Methods

This experiment used OSLDs on water‐equivalent phantom to measure the change in scattered radiation dose due to the difference of irradiation field while using 4‐ and 6‐MV photons of TrueBeam linear accelerator. Using a total treatment dose of 50 Gy, a target was positioned to approximate the breast, and a plan was formulated to deliver 2 Gy per treatment by tangential irradiation. The mean (SD) irradiation dose at the lens position outside the irradiation field was reported.

Results

The scattered radiation dose outside the irradiation field was more affected by the irradiation field size than by the radiation energy. The out‐of‐field irradiation dose with a larger field of view was higher than that with a smaller field of view. The use of 0.07‐ and 0.83‐mm‐thick lead shield protective glasses reduced the radiation dose by 56.1% (P < .001) and 55.6% (P < .001), respectively.

Conclusions

In this experimental model, the amount of radiation the eye was exposed to during whole breast irradiation was determined by the distance of the eye from the radiation field edge and by wearing protective glasses. In clinical practice, the protection offered by eyeglasses may reduce the risk of long‐term side effects and allow the use of higher intensive radiotherapy.
Organocatalytic Remote Asymmetric Inverse‐Electron‐Demand Oxa‐Diels‐Alder Reaction of Allyl Ketones with Isatin‐Derived Unsaturated Keto Esters
Authors: Lin Ye , Hou Xi‐Qiang , Li Bing‐Yu , Du Da‐Ming
Published: October 2020

A remote cascade asymmetric inverse‐electron‐demand oxa‐Diels‐Alder reaction of allyl ketones with isatin‐derived β,γ‐unsaturated α‐keto esters has been developed in the presence of a chiral bifunctional squaramide catalyst. Taking advantage of the secondary amide activating group, a series of enantioenriched 3,4’‐pyranyl spirooxindole derivatives bearing three contiguous chiral centers were attained in high yields (84 to >99%) with excellent enantioselectivities (96–99% ee). Moreover, the gram‐scale synthesis and the construction of 1‐benzazepine scaffold by the product were also demonstrated.

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Präbiotisch plausible RNA‐Aktivierung kompatibel mit ribozymkatalysierter Ligation
Authors: Song Emilie Yeonwha , Jiménez Eddy Ivanhoe , Lin Huacan , Le Vay Kristian , Krishnamurthy Ramanarayanan , Mutschler Hannes
Published: October 2020

RNA‐katalysierte RNA‐Ligation wird häufig als Schlüsselreaktion für die Ursprünge der Biologie angesehen. Da jedoch typische Reaktionswege zur Aktivierung von RNA‐Substraten mit der Ribozymkatalyse inkompatibel sind, bleibt unklar, wie präbiotische Systeme aktivierte Bausteine in ausreichender Menge generieren und aufrechterhalten konnten, um zunehmend größere und komplexere RNAs zu bilden. Hier demonstrieren wir die In‐situ‐Aktivierung von RNA‐Substraten unter Bedingungen, die mit der katalytischen Aktivität von Haarnadelschleifen‐Ribozymen vereinbar sind. Wir fanden heraus, dass Diamidophosphat (DAP) und Imidazol die Entstehung von Mono‐ und Oligoribonukleotiden mit 2′,3′‐zyklischen Phosphaten aus monophosphorylierten Vorläufermolekülen in gefrorenem Wassereis ermöglichen können. Diese beständige Aktivierung erlaubt die schrittweise Entstehung langer RNA‐Stränge. Unsere Ergebnisse liefern ein plausibles Szenario für die Erzeugung energiereicher Substrate, die eine ribozymkatalysierte RNA‐Synthese in Abwesenheit eines hoch entwickelten Metabolismus gestatten.
Platin(II)‐Komplexe mit Bis(pyrazolyl)boratliganden: Gesteigerte molekulare Rigidität bei zweizähnigen Ligandsystemen
Authors: Soellner Johannes , Pinter Piermaria , Stipurin Sergej , Strassner Thomas
Published: October 2020

Platin(II)‐Komplexe mit cyclometallierten N‐heterocyclischen Carbenliganden können verwendet werden, um tiefblaue Emitter zur Anwendung in organischen Leuchtdioden zu entwickeln. Die photophysikalischen Eigenschaften der resultierenden Moleküle sind jedoch auch stark abhängig von dem eingesetzten Hilfsliganden. Im angeregten Zustand erlauben diese oft Moleküldeformationen, die zu strahlungslosen Relaxationsprozessen führen und damit die erreichbare Quantenausbeute schmälern. Die Verwendung von auf Bis(pyrazolyl)boraten basierenden Hilfsliganden erzwingt aufgrund ihrer tetraedrischen Geometrie eine hohe molekulare Rigidität. Der erhöhte sterische Anspruch der Liganden in der Koordinationssphäre hemmt Deformationsprozesse und führt zu hocheffizienten, tiefblauen Platin(II)‐Emittern mit CIE‐Koordinaten unterhalb von (0.15; 0.15).
Site‐Selective Alkenylation of Unactivated C(sp3)−H Bonds Mediated by Compact Sulfate Radical
Authors: Ueda Mitsuhiro , Kamikawa Kazuya , Fukuyama Takahide , Wang Yi‐Ting , Wu Yen‐Ku , Ryu Ilhyong
Published: October 2020

A broad variety of unactivated acyclic and alicyclic substrates cleanly undergo site‐selective alkenylation of unactivated C(sp3)−H bonds with 1,2‐bis(phenylsulfonyl)ethene in the presence of persulfate. This simple transformation furnishes (E)‐2‐alkylvinylphenylsulfones in up to 88 % yield. In contrast with the previously reported decatungstate protocol, the current method is applicable to alkenylation of sterically hindered C−H bonds. This important advantage significantly broadens the substrate scope, and is attributed to the compact size of the sulfate radical employed in the C−H activation and cleavage.
Atomic Sandwiched p‐n Homojunctions
Authors: Wu Yu , Liu XiaoQing , Zhang Huijuan , Li Jian , Zhou Miao , Li Liang , Wang Yu
Published: October 2020

Semiconductor p‐n junctions have been explored and applied in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, but serious carrier recombination and sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) dynamics have demanded further progress in p‐n junction photoelectrode design. Here, via a controllable NH3 treatment, we construct sandwiched p‐n homojunctions in three‐unit‐cells n‐type SnS2 (n‐SnS2) nanosheet arrays using nitrogen (N) as acceptor dopants. The optimal N‐doped n‐SnS2 (pnp‐SnS2) with such unique structure achieves a record photocurrent density of 3.28 mA cm−2, which is 21 times as high as that of n‐SnS2 and the highest value among all the SnS2 photoanodes reported so far. Moreover, the stoichiometric O2 and H2 evolution from water was achieved with Faradaic efficiencies close to 100 %. The superior performance could be attributed to the facilitated electron–hole separation/transfer, accelerated surface OER kinetics, prolonged carrier lifetime, and improved structural stability.
Could aspartame exacerbate caffeine effects on renal maturation in rat's offspring? A biochemical and histological study
Authors: Fareed Shimaa Anter , Mostafa Heba El‐Sayed
Published: October 2020

Background

Caffeine and aspartame (ASP) are mostly used as a diet regimen to reduce overweight. The risk increase if used during critical life periods that may affect the development of fetal organs.

Objective

To evaluate the individual and combined effects of maternal exposure to caffeine and ASP during gestation and lactation on the kidneys' development of rats' offspring.

Methods

Pregnant rats were divided randomly into four groups; Group I (control group). Group II (ASP group): ASP was given at a dose of 40 mg of /kg/day. Group III (Caffeine group): caffeine was given at a dose of 80 mg/kg/day. Group IV (ASP & caffeine group); where previous doses of ASP and caffeine were given at the same time. All the treatments were given by oral gavage from the first day of pregnancy until postnatal day 30. Kidneys of rats' offspring were dissected and tested for detection of oxidative stress markers and for histopathological & immunohistochemical examination.

Results

This study showed a high significant increase in oxidative load (malondialdehyde) in renal tissues in group IV associated with decreased activities of total glutathione and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase). Histological and morphometric examination results showed delayed maturation of renal tissues in Group II and III, but more deleterious effects were observed in group IV with a lot of pathological changes in renal tissues.

Conclusion

The extensive use of caffeine and ASP should be controlled to avoid the risk of their toxicity.
Production of trimeric SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein by CHO cells for serological COVID‐19 testing
Authors: Johari Yusuf B. , Jaffé Stephen R. P. , Scarrott Joseph M. , Johnson Abayomi O. , Mozzanino Théo , Pohle Thilo H. , Maisuria Sheetal , Bhayat‐Cammack Amina , Lambiase Giulia , Brown Adam J. , Tee Kang Lan , Jackson Philip J. , Wong Tuck Seng , Dickman Mark J. , Sargur Ravishankar B. , James David C.
Published: October 2020

We describe scalable and cost‐efficient production of full length, His‐tagged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) spike glycoprotein trimer by Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells that can be used to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies in patient sera at high specificity and sensitivity. Transient production of spike in both human embryonic kidney (HEK) and CHO cells mediated by polyethyleneimine was increased significantly (up to 10.9‐fold) by a reduction in culture temperature to 32°C to permit extended duration cultures. Based on these data GS‐CHO pools stably producing spike trimer under the control of a strong synthetic promoter were cultured in hypothermic conditions with combinations of bioactive small molecules to increase yield of purified spike product 4.9‐fold to 53 mg/L. Purification of recombinant spike by Ni‐chelate affinity chromatography initially yielded a variety of co‐eluting protein impurities identified as host cell derived by mass spectrometry, which were separated from spike trimer using a modified imidazole gradient elution. Purified CHO spike trimer antigen was used in enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay format to detect immunoglobulin G antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 in sera from patient cohorts previously tested for viral infection by polymerase chain reaction, including those who had displayed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) symptoms. The antibody assay, validated to ISO 15189 Medical Laboratories standards, exhibited a specificity of 100% and sensitivity of 92.3%. Our data show that CHO cells are a suitable host for the production of larger quantities of recombinant SARS‐CoV‐2 trimer which can be used as antigen for mass serological testing.
Effect of mental rehearsal on team performance and non-technical skills in surgical teams: systematic review
Authors: Gabbott B , Tennent D , Snelgrove H
Published: October 2020

Background

Simulation-based training in medical education has become a common method to develop both technical and non-technical skills in teams. Mental rehearsal (MR) is the cognitive act of simulating a task in our heads to pre-experience tasks imaginatively. It has been used widely to improve individual and collective performance in fields outside healthcare, and offers potential for more efficient training in time-pressured surgical and medical team contexts. This study aimed to review the available literature to determine the impact of MR on team performance and non-technical skills in healthcare.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, British Educational Index, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycInfo and Cochrane databases were searched for the period 1994–2018. The primary outcome measure was improvement in team performance and non-technical skills. Study quality of RCTs was assessed using the Medical Education Research Quality Instrument. The reported impacts of MR in all included studies were mapped on to the Kirkpatrick framework for evaluation of educational interventions.

Results

Eight studies with 268 participants were identified that met the inclusion criteria, of which there were six randomized trials, one prospective pragmatic trial and one qualitative study. Three studies found MR to be effective in improving team non-technical skills. MR practices were varied and often poorly defined. MR benefited team non-technical skills when it was specifically designed to do so, but was not an automatic consequence of technical MR alone. The majority of studies demonstrated benefits of MR for technical performance, but only three showed positive impacts on teamwork. Overall the studies were of low quality and lacked sufficient discriminatory focus to examine impacts on teamwork dynamics.

Conclusion

MR can improve technical performance, but the benefits on non-technical skills are less clear. Future research should look at longitudinal mixed-method evaluation designs and focus on real clinical teams.
Application of quinpirole in the paraventricular thalamus facilitates emergence from isoflurane anesthesia in mice
Authors: Ao Yawen , Yang Bo , Zhang Caiju , Li Sirui , Xu Haibo
Published: October 2020

Background and Purpose

Dopamine is well‐known to contribute to emergence from anesthesia. Previous studies have demonstrated that the paraventricular thalamus (PVT) in the midline nuclei is crucial for wakefulness. Moreover, the PVT receives dopaminergic projections from the brainstem. Therefore, we hypothesize that the dopaminergic signaling in the PVT plays a role in emergence from isoflurane anesthesia.

Methods

We used c‐Fos immunohistochemistry to reveal the activity of PVT neurons in three groups: The first group (iso+EM‐) underwent the anesthesia protocol and was sacrificed before emergence. The second group (iso+EM+) underwent passive emergence from the same anesthesia protocol. The last group (oxy+) received oxygen. D2‐like agonist quinpirole (2 or 4 mM) or D2‐like antagonist raclopride (2 or 5 mM) was microinjected into the PVT, and their effects on emergence and induction time were analyzed. Surface cortical electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings were used to explore the effects of quinpirole injection into the PVT on cortical excitability during isoflurane anesthesia. The activity of PVT neurons after quinpirole injection was assessed by c‐Fos immunohistochemistry.

Results

The number of c‐Fos‐positive nuclei for the iso+EM+ group was significantly higher than the oxy+ and iso+EM‐ groups. Application of quinpirole (4 mM) into the PVT shortened emergence time compared with the saline group (p < .01). In contrast, administration of raclopride (2 mM) delayed emergence time (p < .05). Neither quinpirole nor raclopride exerted an effect on induction time. EEG analyses showed that quinpirole (4 mM) decreased the burst suppression ratio during isoflurane anesthesia (p < .01). The number of c‐Fos‐positive nuclei for the quinpirole (4 mM) group was significantly higher than saline group (p < .01).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the activity of PVT neurons is enhanced after emergence from anesthesia, and the dopaminergic signaling in the PVT may facilitate emergence from isoflurane anesthesia.
The case for a qualitative lesion assessment system for coronary angiography
Authors: Jones Tara L. , Golomb Mordechai , Dranow Elizabeth , Welt Frederick G.P. , Shah Pinak B.
Published: October 2020

Since the advent of coronary angiography, the standard for reporting of coronary lesion severity has been to utilize percent diameter stenosis (%DS). Given the imperfections of %DS as well as the widespread availability of intraprocedural intracoronary imaging and physiology assessment, it is time to consider a simpler yet more clinically relevant lesion assessment system. We compiled ten actual cases and presented these cases to 10 operators, providing 100 independent lesion assessments. For each case, operators were asked to describe lesions using %DS and a simplified lesion assessment system. We assessed the relationship between %DS and qualitative lesion assessment as well as the relationship of both measurements to the chosen plan. Greater variability exists with %DS than with qualitative lesion assessment. Despite this, there is good correlation between %DS and the qualitative lesion assessment (ρ = 0.8221). There remains overlap of lesion assessment using the qualitative lesion assessment tool suggesting that even with this simpler tool, there remains interobserver variability (ICC = 0.5164, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.2924‐0.7955). When assessing how both lesion assessment, there appears to be a stronger correlation between the qualitative lesion assessment and the chosen plan versus the %DS and the chosen plan (ρ = 0.9069 vs ρ = 0.8001, P < .01). Given the superior performance of the proposed qualitative system and the ability to estimate lesion severity using both anatomic and clinical factors, we feel that professional societies and clinicians should begin to embrace this simplified means of lesion assessment.
Home treatment of type VI mucopolysaccharidosis (Maroteaux‐Lamy syndrome) an alternative at this time of COVID‐19 pandemic: A case in Peru
Authors: Cortez Miranda Jenny Lucy , Blacido Trujillo Lincoln , Liendo Chocano María Elena
Published: October 2020

We report a patient with mucopolysaccharidosis type VI, on long‐term enzyme replacement home therapy. Results support the efficacy and safety benefits, with additional advantage of home therapy to minimize the risk of community‐transmitted infections.
Structures of Solid‐Electrolyte Interphases and Impacts on Initial‐Stage Lithium Deposition in Pyrrolidinium‐Based Ionic Liquids
Authors: He Jun‐Wu , Gu Yu , Wang Wei‐Wei , Wang Jun‐Hao , Chen Zhao‐Bin , He Hong‐Yan , Wu Qi‐Hui , Yan Jia‐Wei , Mao Bing‐Wei
Published: October 2020

Electrodeposition of lithium is of both fundamental significance and practical importance. However, Li deposition has to proceed beneath a solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI). Herein, we present a fundamental study on the formation of SEIs and their influences on Li initial‐stage deposition on Cu in Py14 cation‐based ionic liquids (ILs) combined with different ratios of TFSI and FSI anions. Different SEIs are pre‐formed on Cu by using cyclic voltammetry, followed by detailed characterizations by XPS and AFM, which elucidate that all the SEIs bear mosaic‐like I−O structures but with different compositions and structures and varying thicknesses of approximately 60–150 nm. The Li initial‐stage depositions are studied by using cyclic voltammetric and potential stepping techniques, and current‐time transients are analyzed with the aid of the Scharifker‐Hills model. Discrepancies in nucleation density and diffusion coefficients and their relationships with overpotentials are investigated in correlation with the SEI structures. The present work demonstrates that interfacial and bulk properties of SEI strongly affect the Li deposition processes, which provides opportunities for uniform Li deposition.
Small (<5 nm), Clean, and Well‐Structured Cubic Platinum Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Electrochemical Characterization
Authors: Antoniassi Rodolfo M. , Erikson Heiki , Solla‐Gullón Jose , Torresi Roberto M. , Feliu Juan M.
Published: October 2020

Shape‐controlled metal nanoparticles are significantly improving the electrocatalysis of many relevant reactions. By controlling the shape of nanoparticles, it is possible to engineer their surface to exhibit a preferential structure. However, to facilitate the incorporation of shaped nanomaterials into practical electrochemical devices, it is indispensable to overcome limitations caused by their large particle size (typically >5 nm). For practical applications, nanoparticles must have a size lower than 5 nm with a clean surface to decrease costs and provide a sufficiently large specific surface area. This is a major challenge that has remained unexplored up to now. Herein, we present the synthesis and electrochemical characterization of 3–5 nm, with well‐defined cubic Pt nanoparticles supported on carbon. The electrochemical characterization of the nanoparticles evidences the existence of a preferential {100} and clean structure (within about 40 % of {100} terrace surface).
Evaluating winter malting barley grain yield with fractional green canopy cover
Authors: McGlinch Gregory J. , Jacquemin Stephen J. , Lindsey Laura E.
Published: October 2020

Because of growth in the craft brewing industry, farmers in the eastern United States are planting winter malting barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) to meet demands for locally sourced grain. However, given that barley is a relatively new crop in this region, basic agronomic information relating to stand assessment is needed. This is particularly relevant in this region, as climatic variability from extreme temperature fluctuations during the winter and spring can reduce a barley stand, creating the need for farmers to estimate grain yield potential. The objective of the research was to evaluate the relationship between spring stem counts, fractional green canopy cover (FGCC), and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and barley grain yield. Trials were established at five site‐years in Ohio, where seeding rate treatments of 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 million seeds acre−1 were used to simulate a range of poor to excellent plant stands. All barley stand assessment methods were conducted in the spring at the Feekes 5 growth stage. Stem counts were correlated with FGCC and NDVI measurements (r = .76 and .74, respectively). Stem counts (R2 = .67) and FGCC (R2 = .65) measurements accounted for the greatest variability in barley grain yield. Specifically, FGCC ≤5% corresponded to yield between 27 and 39 bu acre−1, whereas 5 to 10% corresponded to yield between 60 and 89 bu acre−1. Fractional green canopy cover should be considered as a stand and yield assessment tool, as it reduces labor compared with stem counting techniques.
α‐ and γ‐Regiocontrol and Enantiospecificity in the Copper‐Catalyzed Substitution Reaction of Propargylic Phosphates with Grignard Reagents
Authors: Kobayashi Yuichi , Takashima Yuji , Motoyama Yuuya , Isogawa Yukari , Katagiri Kyosuke , Tsuboi Atsuki , Ogawa Narihito
Published: October 2020

The regioselectivity (r.s.) and enantiospecificity (e.s.) of the substitution reactions of secondary propargylic alcohol derivatives using reagents derived from ArMgBr and Cu salts were studied. First, the picolinate, 3‐methylpicolinate, and diethylphosphonate derivatives of Ph(CH2)2CH(OH)C≡CTMS were reacted with PhMgBr/CuCN in ratios of 2.5:2.7–2.5:0.25. The use of 2.5:0.25 ratio in THF/DME (6:1) at 0 °C for 1 h afforded the α‐substitution product from the phosphate with ≥98 % r.s. and 99 % e.s. CuBr⋅Me2S gave similar selectivity. The reaction system was then applied to phosphates derived from R1CH(OH)C≡CR2 and ArMgBr to obtain synthetically sufficient r.s. and e.s. values with R2=TMS, Ph, whereas iPr was borderline in terms of size as an R1 substituent. The presence of a substituent at the o‐position of Ar marginally affected the selectivity. We also found that the use of PhMgBr/Cu(acac)2 in a 2:1 ratio in THF produced the γ‐substitution products (allenes) with high r.s. and e.s.
Pharmacokinetics, Bioequivalence, and Safety Studies of Pantoprazole Sodium Enteric‐Coated Tablets in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Chen Zhimin , Gan Fangliang , Rao Xiali , Huang Xiaoxiao , Chen Huafang
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to evaluate the bioequivalence of 2 pantoprazole sodium enteric‐coated tablet formulations, a generic formulation and a branded formulation, and to investigate their pharmacokinetic and safety profiles. The study was designed as a single‐center, randomized, open‐label, single‐dose, dual‐period, and 2‐sequence crossover trial, and was divided into fasting and postprandial human bioequivalence trials. In the first trial, 36 subjects were fasted overnight before they were given generic or branded tablets (during 2 separate administration periods). Separately, 42 subjects were provided a high‐fat meal 1 hour before the drugs were administered. Blood specimens of each subject were obtained up to 24 hours after drug administration. No significant differences were observed between the pharmacokinetic profiles of the generic and branded pantoprazole sodium enteric‐coated tablets. Bioequivalence was evaluated using 90% confidence intervals for the ratio of test/reference log area under the concentration‐time curve over 24 hours, log area under the concentration‐time curve to infinity (AUC0‐∞), and log peak concentration (Cmax). The 90% confidence intervals of the least squares geometric mean ratio of Cmax, area under the concentration‐time curve from time zero to the last measurable concentration (AUC0‐t), and AUC0‐∞ of 36 subjects in the fasting trial and of 40 of 41 subjects in the postprandial trial (Cmax [41], AUC0‐t [41], and AUC0‐∞ [40]) were in accordance with the bioequivalence criteria. No severe adverse effects were detected. The generic and branded pantoprazole sodium enteric‐coated tablets were considered bioequivalent with similar safety profiles.
The cytologic and immunohistochemical findings of pancreatic mixed acinar‐endocrine carcinoma
Authors: Whitehair Rachel , Stelow Edward B.
Published: October 2020

Background

The classification of epithelioid pancreatic neoplasms based on fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) is important for proper management, as distinction of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms from other similar appearing lesions can result in significantly different treatment. Mixed acinar‐endocrine carcinomas (MAEC) are genetically related to acinar carcinomas and are treated as such. We reviewed cases of MAEC to better characterize their cytologic and immunohistochemical features.

Methods

Eight FNAs of MAECs were identified and reviewed. A chart review for each case was conducted.

Results

All patients were male, 42‐68 years of age, and presented with either Stage 3 or 4 disease. Smear backgrounds of all cases showed naked nuclei without significant necrosis. The smears were cellular with cells arranged in either three‐dimensional (3D) clusters with intervening capillaries or singly dispersed. Acinar formation was a prominent feature. Cells were round to oval with small to moderate amounts of delicate cytoplasm. The nuclei were round to oval with mild to moderate anisonucleosis with granular chromatin and small nucleoli. Apoptotic bodies and mitoses were noted in most cases, with Ki67 indices of 10%‐48%. All tumors, by definition, demonstrated expression of trypsin and synaptophysin with variable chromogranin expression (50%).

Conclusion

The cytology of acinar cell carcinoma shares features with aspirates of other nonductal adenocarcinoma neoplasms of the pancreas. A clue to the diagnosis is that tumors show high Ki67 indices and a diagnosis of MAEC should be excluded anytime a diagnosis of Grade 2 or 3 well‐differentiated neuroendocrine tumor or high‐grade neuroendocrine carcinoma is in the differential.
Different landscape effects on the genetic structure of two broadly distributed woody legumes, Acacia salicina and A. stenophylla (Fabaceae)
Authors: Encinas‐Viso Francisco , McDonald‐Spicer Christiana , Knerr Nunzio , Thrall Peter H. , Broadhurst Linda
Published: October 2020

Restoring degraded landscapes has primarily focused on re‐establishing native plant communities. However, little is known with respect to the diversity and distribution of most key revegetation species or the environmental and anthropogenic factors that may affect their demography and genetic structure. In this study, we investigated the genetic structure of two widespread Australian legume species (Acacia salicina and Acacia stenophylla) in the Murray–Darling Basin (MDB), a large agriculturally utilized region in Australia, and assessed the impact of landscape structure on genetic differentiation. We used AFLP genetic data and sampled a total of 28 A. salicina and 30 A. stenophylla sampling locations across southeastern Australia. We specifically evaluated the importance of four landscape features: forest cover, land cover, water stream cover, and elevation. We found that both species had high genetic diversity (mean percentage of polymorphic loci, 55.1% for A. salicina versus. 64.3% for A. stenophylla) and differentiation among local sampling locations (A. salicina: ΦPT = 0.301, 30%; A. stenophylla: ΦPT = 0.235, 23%). Population structure analysis showed that both species had high levels of structure (6 clusters each) and admixture in some sampling locations, particularly A. stenophylla. Although both species have a similar geographic range, the drivers of genetic connectivity for each species were very different. Genetic variation in A. salicina seems to be mainly driven by geographic distance, while for A. stenophylla, land cover appears to be the most important factor. This suggests that for the latter species, gene flow among populations is affected by habitat fragmentation. We conclude that these largely co‐occurring species require different management actions to maintain population connectivity. We recommend active management of A. stenophylla in the MDB to improve gene flow in the adversity of increasing disturbances (e.g., droughts) driven by climate change and anthropogenic factors.