bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Distributions of Anthropogenic Induced Gaseous - Particulate Pollutants and Non-Enzymatic Abiotic Stress Responses of Citrius sinesis Leaves
Authors: Dan Emmanuel U. , David Enobong M. , Effiong Anietie E. , Efiong Nsinem E. , Udo Awasiakan I.
Published: June 2020

Aims: To determine the spatial distribution pattern of anthropogenic induced gaseous and particulate pollutants in air samples around major roads within Uyo Metropolis, Southern Nigeria. Also, to assess the response in terms of changes in concentrations of some non-enzymatic biochemical markers of Citrius sinesis leaves (orange) collected from these locations.

Study Design: Air samples from six major heavy traffic roads and a control site within Uyo Metropolis was collected. Citrius sinesis leaves were also collected from each major roads and Control to determine possible variations in concentrations of biochemical markers contents. 

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Chemistry, University of Uyo, Uyo, between September 2019 and January 2020.

Methodology: Absorption train techniques involving the adsorption of pollutant gases from air samples in a particular location into appropriate reagent solutions was adopted for this study. Estimation of the concentrations of SO2, NO2 and CO was done by calorimetric techniques. Concentrations of total phenolic, proline, malonialdehyde (MDA), cellulose, chlorophyll and ascorbic acid contents in Citrius sinesis leaves were determined using UV/Visible spectrophotometer.

Results: Air samples collected from major roads with heavy traffic and extraneous local automobile emissions recorded higher levels of all the gaseous and particulates pollutants analyzed than Control. Leaves of C. sinesis exposed to higher concentrations of these pollutants showed a higher accumulation of all the biochemical markers studied except chlorophyll, which was higher in leaves from the control site.

Conclusion: Anthropogenic activities directly increases the spatial distribution pattern and concentrations of gaseous and particulate pollutants (PM10 and PM2.5). Also, C. sinesis leaves from major roads within Uyo Metropolis showed different responses in terms of accumulation of these biochemical markers.
Nutritional Status and Its Determinants among Fulani Children Aged 6-24 Months in a Rural Community of Kaduna State, Northwest Nigeria
Authors: Danimoh Mustapha Abdulsalam , Idris Suleiman Hadeja , Dikko Hussaini Garba , Olorukooba Abdulhakeem Abayo , Mohammed Amina , Ayodeji Olawepo Olatayo
Published: June 2020

Background: Nutritional status of young children is an important measure of their health status, growth, and development. There is a knowledge gap in the nutritional status of Fulani children aged 6 – 24 months in Nigeria. Our study, therefore, aims to assess the nutritional status of Fulani children (6 – 24 months old) and its determinants.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of 209 children were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Anthropometric measurements were obtained from the children and converted to Z-scores to determine nutritional status. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Bivariate analysis was conducted to examine the relationships between respondents’ socio-demographic factors and nutritional status. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value of ≤0.05.

Results: A majority (62.2%) of the children were aged 6 – 12 months. The prevalence’s of stunting, wasting and underweight were 44.9%, 9.6% and 16.3% respectively. A higher proportion (55.3%) of male children were stunted compared to females. Most (51.1%) of the children aged 6 – 12 months were stunted compared to those aged 13 -24 months. There was a statistically significant association between stunting and age (p = 0.004). Children aged 6 -12 months (OR = 2.5, CI: 1.3 – 4.8) were at higher risk of developing stunting compared to those aged 13 – 24 months.

Conclusion and Recommendation: The proportion of children that were stunted and those that were underweight was high. Therefore, there is a need for health authorities to ensure continuous growth monitoring practices of young children among the Fulani people to detect growth failure early in life and institute interventions.
Seasonal Trend of Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Sediments from River Ethiope in the Niger Delta Region of Southern Nigeria
Authors: Edjere O. , Agbozu I. E. , Asibor G. , Otolo S. , Bassey U.
Published: June 2020

Seasonal trends of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in the sediment of River Ethiope in Delta State, Southern Nigeria were assessed in this study. Samples were taken from six different points at Ethiope River along its banks during the dry and rainy seasons. Samples were extracted using soxhlet apparatus and analysed with gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC/FID). The results obtained for the PAHs concentration ranges from 184.73 µg/kg – 3679.13 µg/kg for dry season and for rainy season, some stations were below detection limit (BDL) to a maximum value of 693.43 µg/kg. The result clearly shows that the total concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon detected in the dry season was higher than those of the rainy season. Similarly, more PAHs compound of higher and lower rings were found in the dry season than in the rainy season in sediment samples. Although, the PAHs concentrations were quite low which indicated no danger status from the consumption or dermal contact for humans’ point of view, however, the levels can cause adverse effects for lower aquatic organisms which are exposed to the sediments on a daily basis. Therefore, persistent monitoring and strict adherence to responsible waste discharge should be upheld by all manufacturing and agro industries located in the study area in order to avoid deleterious effects of the biodiversity in the water bodies as well as ensuring safety of the  consumers.
Antimicrobial, Phytochemical Analysis and Molecular Docking (In-silico Approach) of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray and Jatropha gossypiifolia L on Selected Clinical and Multi-Drug Resistant Isolates
Authors: Okiti A. F. , Osuntokun O. T.
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study is to determine the zones of inhibition, phytochemical screening and molecular docking (In-silico Approach) of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray and Jatropha gossypiifolia L against selected clinical and multi drug resistant isolates. Crude extraction of air dried leaves were carried out by soaking the plant in ethanol and ethyl acetate, standard agar diffusion method was used for sensitivity testing, minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration values were obtained by agar dilution method. The antimicrobial activity of the leaf extracts of T. diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray and J. gossypiifolia L was assayed against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Shigella dysentriae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Candida albican and against multi drug resistant bacteria which are Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterobacter agglomerans, Proteus mirabilis, Providencia stuartii, Salmonella subsp 3b. Levofloxacin and fluconazole were the standard antibiotics used. Sensitivity test revealed the highest zone of inhibition observed for J. gossypiifolia L and T. diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray against Candida albican with mean and standard deviation of 29±1.414 and 19.5±0.707 at 100 mg/ml respectively, while the least zone of inhibition was observed from the extracts of J. gossypiifolia L against Escherichia coli with 11.75±0.354 at 100 mg/ml. Both plant extracts showed antimicrobial activity against multi drug resistant isolates having zones of inhibition ranging from 0 to 15±1.414. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of the extracts ranges between 6.25 and 100 mg/ml as well as the Minimum Bactericidal Concentration. The qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, anthraquinone, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, phlobotannins, reducing sugars saponins, steroids and tannins. Molecular docking of the phytochemicals of T. diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray only was carried out using levofloxacin as template, which revealed the presence of compounds more effective in inhibiting DNA gyrase enzyme. Thus, the use of both plants as traditional medicine is justifiable and should be encouraged in the formulation and production of new antibiotics.
Studies on Physio-chemical Properties of Maintainer, Restorer Lines and Hybrids of Chilies (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Nikornpun Maneechat , Tunjai K. , Kaewsombat K. , Tarinta T. , Boonyakiat Danai
Published: June 2020

Physio-chemical properties of hybrid chilies (Capsicum annuum L.), parental lines and commercial varieties were evaluated in three experiments and showed significant differences among them. Heterosis, and heterobeltiosis were studied in hybrids while, combining abilities were investigated in maintainers and restorers. Positive statistical differences in the general combining ability of the maintainer lines for vitamin C, capsaicin and Hue were observed and general combining ability indicated that, CA1286 and CA1303, were good maintainers for the improvement of capsaicin and vitamin C. The other maintainers;-, CA1441 and CA1442, are good for the improvement of L* and Chroma. The maintainer, CA1441, was better than CA1442 for capsaicin content,- while the maintainer, CA1442, was better than CA1441 for vitamin C. Positivity and statistically significant differences among the restorers were  observed  for vitamin C, capsaicin, Hue and Chroma  and  the lines;-, CA 1447, CA 1448, CA 1449, CA 1450 and CA 1451, were useful for the improvement of these  physio-chemical properties of chilies.
Hematological Changes and Antidiabetic Activities of Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schatt Stem Tuber Aqueous Extract in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Caleb Nwaogwugwu, Joel . , F. O. Uhegbu, , S. C. Okereke, , C. I. Nosiri, , E. N. Amaka, , Nwamaka Idume Joy
Published: June 2020

Management of blood glucose level is the hallmark in the treatment of diabetes. Much work has not been done on the management of diabetes using the stem tuber extract of Colocasia esculenta. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antihyperglycemic and hematological parameter on Colocasia esculenta aqueous stem extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Sixty (60) male rats were used in the study. Seven days of acclimatization, the rats were divided randomly into six groups of five in each group. Group 1: Served as normal control, Group 2: Diabetic control group (negative control), Group 3: Diabetic group and “Glucinorm-M80” (positive control), Group 4: Diabetic group and extract at 200 mg/kg bodyweight, Group 5: Diabetic group and extract at 400 mg/kg, Group 6: Diabetic group and extract at 600 mg/kg. Diabetes was induced in albino rats by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan at a single dose of 120 mg/kg body weight in groups 2 to 6 after starving them for 24 hrs. The animals were given feed and water ad libitum. The albino rats were administered for twenty eight days with the aqueous Colocasia esculenta stem tuber, after which they were fasted overnight, anaesthetized with chloroform and sacrificed. The result showed that there was a significant increase (p<0.05) in mean body weight of the positive control and the treatment groups (200 mg/kg to 600 mg/kg) when compared with the negative control which has a significant decrease (p<0.05) in mean body weight. The result also showed a significant increase (P<0.05) in the concentrations of RBC, PCV, HB, while PLT and MCH showed significant decrease (P<0.05) in the treatment groups and negative control group when compared with the normal control group. Also there was a no significant (P<0.05) difference in MCHC of the treatment groups when compared with the control group and negative control group. Also there was a significant difference in glycosylate hemoglobin of the treatment groups when compared with the control group and negative group. This study has demonstrated that aqueous stem tuber extract of Colocasia esculenta has a significant increase on body weight which may have a role of improving the states of possible weight loss following complicated diabetes. Also, aqueous stem tuber extract of Colocasia esculenta has an ameliorative effect on sugar level and some hematological parameters of alloxan induced diabetic rats showing effective diabetic control and management of diabetes.
Efficacy and Side Effects of Intracameral Moxifloxacin as Prophylaxis after Cataract Surgery
Authors: Chaudhary Bhanu Prakash , Tripathi Baldev Prasad
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To determine the efficacy of intracameral moxifloxacin at the end of cataract surgery.

Methods: Retrospective record based study. Study was based on a consecutive case series of patients who had cataract surgery during 2009 through 2019 in the Department of Ophthalmology at Maharishi Vashishth State Medical College, Basti (India). Intracameral preservative free moxifloxacin injection was given at the conclusion of surgery to most patients. Standardized operating room and sterilization protocols were used. All The medical records were reviewed for the 8 weeks after surgery. Post-operative endophthalmitis rate was computed using the number of cases of postoperative endophthalmitis as the numerator and the number of cataract surgeries as the denominator.

Results: Of the 10,108 surgeries performed during study period, 2012 (19.9%) involved intracameral moxifloxacin injection. No adverse drug reactions were reported from administration of intracameral antibiotics during the study period. The post-operative endophthalmitis rate in patient who had not received intracameral antibiotic injection was 0.06%. There was no endophthalmitis case reported in patients who had received intracameral moxifloxacin injection as prophylaxis.

Conclusion: The results of this study support the use if intracameral moxifloxacin as a routine prophylaxis for endophthalmitis after cataract surgery. Especially in rural setting as the patients postoperative instruction compliance is poor and many patients are lost to follow-ups sue to different reasons.
Prevalence, Risk Factors Associated with Brucellosis and Presence of Pathogenic Bacteria Isolated from Camel Milk in Garissa County, Kenya
Authors: Noor M. , Rotich V. , Kiarie J. W. , Cheruiyot K. , Kagira J. M.
Published: June 2020

Aim: The current study was undertaken to assess the prevalence, risk factors of brucellosis and presence of pathogenic bacteria isolated from camel milk in Garrisa County, Kenya.

Methodology: The study design was cross-sectional where questionnaires were administered to farmers to assess the risk factors associated with brucellosis. The experimental study was also employed to identify bacteria in milk samples which were collected from 104 camels. Fifty milk samples were obtained from local farms while 54 were from sales point at Garissa market. Further test for brucellosis using milk ring test was also carried out.

Results: The overall prevalence of brucellosis in camel milk was 8%. Most (12.5%) of the positive samples were from Dadaab Sub-county while the rest of the positive samples were from Fafi (5.9%) and Balambala (5.9%) sub-counties. All the 54 samples obtained from Garissa market were negative of brucellosis. Of the total (118) bacteria isolates, those from the farm level were 68.6% and from market were 31.2%. The bacteria isolated from the 104 milk samples were Pseudomonas spp. (32.2%), Salmonella spp. (30.5%), Staphylococcus spp (21.2%), Eschericia coli (8.5%) and Shigella spp. (7.6%). The risk factors that significantly (p<0.05) associated brucellosis were: age of lactating camels (higher in camels aged above 20 years), herd size (higher in camels from herd sizes of between 30-50 camels) and herding of camels with other livestock (higher in camels kept with other livestock).

Conclusion: In conclusion, a few milk samples from camels in Garissa County were found to have brucellosis and were heavily infected with bacteria which can cause mastitis. Considering that most people in the study area drank raw milk, spread of these bacteria to man is a high possibility and thus animal and public health officers should implement one health disease control strategies.
The β‐turn‐supporting motif in the polyglutamine binding peptide QBP1 is essential for inhibiting huntingtin aggregation
Authors: Belwal Vinay Kumar , Datta Debika , Chaudhary Nitin
Published: June 2020

Aggregation of polyglutamine proteins is a hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases. The 11‐residue polyglutamine binding peptide Ac‐SNWKWWPGIFD‐am, known as QBP1, inhibits polyglutamine aggregation. Besides, a minimal 8‐residue stretch in the QBP1 peptide (Ac‐WKWWPGIF‐am) is reported in the literature to retain this activity. Both peptides harbor a Pro‐Gly dipeptide motif, a feature characteristic of potential β‐turn regions. Here, we investigated whether the presence of this β‐turn motif is necessary for the inhibition of huntingtin aggregation, a polyglutamine protein implicated in Huntington’s disease. Using single amino acid substitutions to generate analogs that could support, introduce, or eliminate the β‐turn, we show that the turn‐supporting motif is essential for QBP1‐mediated inhibition of huntingtin aggregation.
Genome‐wide profiling of circulating tumor DNA depicts landscape of copy number alterations in pancreatic cancer with liver metastasis
Authors: Wei Tao , Zhang Jian , Li Jin , Chen Qi , Zhi Xiao , Tao Wei , Ma Jingjiao , Yang Jiaqi , Lou Yu , Ma Tao , Li Xiang , Zhang Qi , Chen Wei , Que Risheng , Gao Shunliang , Bai Xueli , Liang Tingbo
Published: June 2020

Cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) offers an alternative to tissue biopsies for genomic profiling in tumors. Here, we sought to evaluate copy number alterations in PDAC through whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) of cfDNA and determine their clinical significance. Using shallow WGS across 90 plasma samples from 70 pancreatic cancer patients, we detected somatic copy number alterations (CNAs) in 34 subjects (48.6%). Additionally, a higher tumor fraction (TFx) was associated with increased carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9), metastasis, and a worse prognosis. Serial cfDNA analysis suggested that CNAs were highly concordant even for progressive disease after chemotherapy. TFx dynamics were largely in line with changed CA19‐9 levels and tumor burden following chemotherapy. Notably, patients with more abundant, baseline CNAs exhibited a better response to chemotherapy. In conclusion, shallow WGS for cfDNA enables a high‐throughput characterization of CNAs and an estimation of tumor burden in metastatic pancreatic cancer. These findings reinforce our understanding of the genomic evolution of metastatic PDAC and might have clinical relevance for guiding treatment.
VNUT/SLC17A9, a vesicular nucleotide transporter, regulates osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Inoue Asako , Nakao‐Kuroishi Kayoko , Kometani‐Gunjigake Kaori , Mizuhara Masahiro , Shirakawa Tomohiko , Ito‐Sago Misa , Yasuda Kazuma , Nakatomi Mitsushiro , Matsubara Takuma , Tada‐Shigeyama Yukiyo , Morikawa Kazumasa , Kokabu Shoichiro , Kawamoto Tatsuo
Published: June 2020

Osteoblasts release adenosine triphosphate (ATP) out of the cell following mechanical stress. Although it is well established that extracellular ATP affects bone metabolism via P2 receptors [such as purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7R) and purinergic receptor P2Y2 (P2Y2R)], the mechanism of ATP release from osteoblasts remains unknown. Recently, a vesicular nucleotide transporter [VNUT, solute carrier family 17 member 9 (SLC17A9)] that preserves ATP in vesicles has been identified. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the role of VNUT in osteoblast bone metabolism. mRNA and protein expression of VNUT were confirmed in mouse bone and in osteoblasts by quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) and immunohistochemistry. Next, when compressive force was applied to MC3T3‐E1 cells by centrifugation, the expression of Slc17a9, P2x7r, and P2y2r was increased concomitant with an increase in extracellular ATP levels. Furthermore, compressive force decreased the osteoblast differentiation capacity of MC3T3‐E1 cells. shRNA knockdown of Slc17a9 in MC3T3‐E1 cells reduced levels of extracellular ATP and also led to increased osteoblast differentiation after the application of compressive force as assessed by qPCR analysis of osteoblast markers such as Runx2, Osterix, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as well as ALP activity. Consistent with these observations, knockdown of P2x7r or P2y2r by siRNA partially rescued the downregulation of osteoblast differentiation markers, caused by mechanical loading. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that VNUT is expressed in osteoblasts and that VNUT inhibits osteoblast differentiation in response to compressive force by mechanisms related to ATP release and P2X7R and/or P2Y2R activity.
In search of a one plan solution for VMAT post‐mastectomy chest wall irradiation
Authors: Monajemi T. T. , Oliver P. A. K. , Day A. , Yewondwossen M.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study was designed to evaluate skin dose in both VMAT and tangent treatment deliveries for the purpose of identifying suitable bolus use protocols that should produce similar superficial doses.

Methods

Phantom measurements were used to investigate skin dose in chest wall radiotherapy with and without bolus for 3D and rotational treatment techniques. Optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) with and without housing and EBT3 film were used. Superflab (3, 5, and 10 mm) and brass mesh were considered. Measured doses were compared with predictions by the Eclipse treatment planning system. Patient measurements were also performed and the bolusing effect of hospital gowns and blankets were highlighted. The effect of flash for VMAT plans was considered experimentally by using 2 mm couch shifts.

Results

For tangents, average skin doses without bolus were 0.64 (EBT3), 0.62 (bare OSLD), 0.77 (jacketed OSLD), and 0.68 (Eclipse) as a fraction of prescription. For VMAT, doses without bolus were 0.53 (EBT3), 0.53 (bare OSLD), 0.64 (jacketed OSLD), and 0.60 (Eclipse). For tangents, the average doses with different boluses as measured by EBT3 were 0.99 (brass mesh), 1.02 (3 mm), 1.03 (5 mm), and 1.07 (10 mm). For VMAT with bolus, average doses as measured by EBT3 were 0.83 (brass), 0.96 (3 mm), 1.03 (5 mm), and 1.04 (10 mm). Eclipse doses agreed with measurements to within 5% of measurements for all Superflab thicknesses and within 15% of measurements for no bolus. The presence of a hospital gown and blanket had a bolusing effect that increased the surface dose by approximately 10%.

Conclusions

Results of this work allow for consideration of different bolus thicknesses, materials, and usage schedules based on desired skin dose and choice of either tangents or an arc beam techniques.
Demographic characteristics and neuropsychological assessments of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) (plus)
Authors: Hao Lixiao , Sun Yu , Li Yun , Wang Jieyu , Wang Zichen , Zhang Zhongying , Wei Zhanyun , Gao Ge , Jia Jianguo , Xing Yue , Han Ying
Published: June 2020

Background

Since SCD (plus) was standardized, little is known about its demographic characteristics and its outcomes of neuropsychological assessments, including the SCD questionnaire 9 (SCD‐Q9).

Objective

To characterize SCD (plus) by comparing the neuropsychological features among its subgroups and with normal controls (NC). Also, to explore its demographics and to understand the relation of the chief complaints and the scores of SCD‐Q9.

Methods

Multistage stratified cluster random sampling was conducted to select participants. As a result, 84 NC and 517 SCD (plus) were included. SCD (plus) was further classified into several subgroups (SCD‐C: concerned cognitive decline; SCD‐F: complaints about SCD within the past five years; SCD‐P: feeling performance being not as good as their peers; SCD+: presented> 3 of SCD (plus) features; SCD‐: presented ≤ 3 of SCD (plus) features (see the diagnostic criteria for the details)) and between‐group comparisons of neuropsychological scores were conducted. Point‐biserial correlation and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the demographic characteristics of its subgroups. Finally, Spearman correlation was used to better understand the relation of SCD (plus) to SCD‐Q9.

Results

(1) Scores of AVLT‐LR (AVLT‐LR: Auditory Verbal Learning Test‐Long Delayed Recall) and MoCA‐B (MoCA: Montreal Cognitive Assessment‐Basic) were lower in the SCD‐P group than those in the NC group, and the SCD+ group scored lower in the MoCA‐B and CDT(CDT: Clock Drawing Test) than the SCD‐ group. (2) Females were more concerned than male participants. Individuals with lower education level felt that their cognitive performance were worse than their peers. Also, younger people might express concerns more than the more elderly. People who had complaints of SCD‐P might be more likely to report SCD‐C, but less likely to report SCD‐F. (3) Positive correlations were found between the chief complaints of SCD (plus) and some items of SCD‐Q9.

Conclusions

SCD (plus) may be related to demographic factors. Individuals with SCD (plus) already exhibited cognitive impairment, which can be detected by SCD‐Q9.
Mitochondrial encephalopathy Due to a Novel Pathogenic Mitochondrial tRNAGln m.4349C>T Variant
Authors: Ji Kunqian , Wang Wei , Lin Yan , Xu Xuebi , Liu Fuchen , Wang Dongdong , Zhao Yuying , Yan Chuanzhu
Published: June 2020

Objective

Mitochondrial diseases are a group of genetic diseases caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA, among which, mutations in mitochondrial tRNA genes possessing prominent status. In most of the cases, however, the detailed molecular pathogenesis of these tRNA gene mutations remains unclear.

Methods

We performed the clinical emulation, muscle histochemistry, northern blotting analysis of tRNA levels, biochemical measurement of respiratory chain complex activities and mitochondrial respirations in muscle tissue and cybrid cells.

Results

We found a novel m.4349C>T mutation in mitochondrial tRNAGln gene in a patient present with encephalopathy, epilepsy, and deafness. We demonstrated molecular pathomechanisms of this mutation. This mutation firstly disturbed the translation machinery of mitochondrial tRNAGlnand impaired mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activities, followed by remarkable mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production.

Interpretation.

This study illustrated the pathogenicity of a novel m.4349C>T mutation and provided a better understanding of the phenotype associated with mutations in mitochondrial tRNAGln gene.
Urate is closely linked to white matter integrity in multiple system atrophy
Authors: Yoo Han Soo , Chung Seok Jong , Lee Yang Hyun , Ye Byoung Seok , Sohn Young H. , Kwon Hunki , Lee Phil Hyu
Published: June 2020

Objective

We aimed to investigate the association of the serum urate level with cortical thickness and white matter integrity in multiple system atrophy (MSA).

Methods

We recruited 75 MSA patients and 42 controls who underwent brain MRI and measured serum urate level at baseline. Using cortical thickness and tract‐based spatial statistics analyses, we investigated the correlation between serum urate levels and cortical thickness or diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measures in controls and MSA patients. Interaction effects were analyzed to find different patterns of correlation according to sex and clinical subtype. We evaluated the relationship between serum urate levels, DTI measures, and total UMSARS score, using path analysis.

Results

Serum urate levels showed a positive correlation with FA values in the corpus callosum and a negative correlation with MD values in widespread regions including cerebellar, brainstem, and cerebral white matter in patients with MSA. Both sexes showed a negative correlation between serum urate levels and MD values without significant interaction effect. In subgroup analysis according to subtype, patients with cerebellar subtype showed a negative correlation. Serum urate levels did not correlated with cortical thickness. Path analysis showed that MD values in middle and inferior cerebellar peduncle mediated the association between serum urate level and total UMSAR score.

Interpretation

The present study demonstrated that serum urate levels played a pivotal role in white matter disintegrity and clinical disability in MSA. It would provide an evidence of the role of urate as a potential neuroprotective factor against white matter neurodegeneration in MSA.
2D Inorganic Bimolecular Crystals with Strong In‐Plane Anisotropy for Second‐Order Nonlinear Optics
Authors: Feng Xin , Sun Zongdong , Pei Ke , Han Wei , Wang Fakun , Luo Peng , Su Jianwei , Zuo Nian , Liu Guiheng , Li Huiqiao , Zhai Tianyou
Published: June 2020

2D inorganic bimolecular crystals, consisting of two different inorganic molecules, are expected to possess novel physical and chemical properties due to the synergistic effect of the individual components. However, 2D inorganic bimolecular crystals remain unexploited because of the difficulties in preparation arising from non‐typical layered structures and intricate intermolecular interactions. Here, the synthesis of 2D inorganic bimolecular crystal SbI3·3S8 nanobelts via a facile vertical microspacing sublimation strategy is reported. The as‐synthesized SbI3·3S8 nanobelts exhibit strong in‐plane anisotropy of phonon vibrations and intramolecular vibrations as well as show anisotropic light absorption with a high dichroism ratio of 3.9. Furthermore, it is revealed that the second harmonic generation intensity of SbI3·3S8 nanobelts is highly dependent on the excitation wavelength and crystallographic orientation. This work can inspire the growth of more 2D inorganic bimolecular crystals and excite potential applications for bimolecular optoelectronic devices.
Farmers’ insights on soil health indicators and adoption
Authors: Bagnall Dianna K. , McIntosh Wm. Alex , Morgan Cristine L.S. , Woodward Richard T. , Cisneros Marissa , Black Michael , Kiella Erin M. , Ale Srinivasulu
Published: June 2020

Lack of adoption of soil health–promoting practices (SHPPs) leaves soil vulnerable to erosion, exacerbating flooding and contributing to high nutrient and sediment levels in surface waters. To aid in the adoption of SHPPs, changes in soil health need to be measured and related to things that both clearly and directly matter to farmers and stakeholders, yet soil scientists still grapple with which indicators to measure when assessing soil health. Useful indicators of soil health show changes in soil function resulting from changes in soil management, are measurable, and have clear and direct value to their target audience. These “linking indicators” need to be identified in context for successful promotion of SHPPs. We collected data from two focus groups of farmers in the Brazos River Watershed, TX, who had either adopted SHPPs or who had not. Content analysis of focus group transcripts revealed soil health was an important part of a farmer's stewardship ethic. Farmers perceived that water management, organic matter, yield, and biomass were meaningful indicators of soil health that benefited their enterprise. However, using yield and biomass alone has the potential to create a “false positive” for soil health. When farmers chose their management practices, two themes interacted with farmer concerns for soil health: profitability and social interactions. This work provides context and recommended linking indicators for soil scientists to use for communication with farmers. Researchers and policymakers should be aware of these interactions if efforts to promote SHPP adoption are to be successful.
Elevated resting metabolic rates among female, but not male, reindeer herders from subarctic Finland
Authors: Ocobock Cara , Soppela Päivi , Turunen Minna T. , Stenbäck Ville , Herzig Karl‐Heinz
Published: June 2020

Objective

Elevated resting metabolic rates (RMR, kcal/day) are a well‐established mechanism for maintaining core body temperature among cold climate populations. A high degree of interindividual variation has recently been noted among circumpolar populations. To further examine RMR variability, we investigated anthropometric and metabolic differences among reindeer herders from subarctic Finland.

Methods

Resting metabolic rates, body mass, body composition, height, age, and sex were measured among 20 reindeer herders (5 females, 15 males, 20‐64 years) from seven herding districts surrounding the Arctic Circle of Finland in January of 2019.

Results

Females had a mean RMR of 1798 ± 216 kcal/day and males 1753 ± 503 kcal/day. When controlling for body mass and fat‐free mass, females had significantly higher RMRs relative to males (P < .01). Contrary to previous cold climate population studies, measured RMR among males was not significantly different from predictive equation estimates (P > .05). However, predictive equations significantly underestimated female RMR by a mean of 25.2% ± 5.9% (P < .01).

Conclusion

These results mirror earlier findings, though in ways previously unseen. In this population: (a) There is a high degree of RMR interindividual variability, but only among males, and (b) there is evidence for elevated RMR, but only among females. Though the sample size is small, preliminary results suggest the presence of sex‐based differences in metabolic adaptations to cold climates within this population subset. Potential reasons for this sex‐based difference are discussed including a presentation of a hypothesis about the dual role of thyroid hormone in both reproductive and metabolic processes.
Proportionality indices, geographic altitude, and gestational age in newborns from Jujuy, Argentina
Authors: Martínez Jorge I. , Revollo Gabriela B. , Alfaro Emma L. , Grandi Carlos , Dipierri José E.
Published: June 2020

Background

There are several different proportionality indices (PRIs) to evaluate size at birth by gestational age (GA). Yet, the explanatory power of alternative PRIs has not been evaluated in highland (HL) populations.

Aim

Evaluate the relative utility of three PRIs, weight to length ratio (W/L), body mass index (BMI), and ponderal index (PI), for assessing nutritional status in newborns (NBs) from highland (HL ≥ 2000 m) and lowland (LL < 2000 m) regions of the Jujuy Province of Argentina.

Subjects and methods

Births were registered by the Ministry of Health (Jujuy, 2009‐2014). Data were grouped according to HL and LL altitude groups based on of maternal residence. The main outcome measures were the PRIs W/L ratio, BMI, and PI. Percentiles were generated by the LMS method and compared with references. ANOVAs and Pearson correlations were used to examine the relationship between outcome measures with weight and length by altitude, sex, and GA.

Results

In both altitude zones, W/L and BMI increased with GA, while PI stabilized between 37th and 42th weeks. The LL sample had significantly higher values for all the PRIs from the 37th week of GA. In the HL sample, the 50th percentiles for all three PRIs were lower than the reference. Regardless of GA and altitude level, BMI showed the lowest correlation with length and the higher with the weight.

Conclusion

The HL sample of term NBs had lower values for all PRIs compared to their LL counterparts. In both altitude zones, the BMI is the preferred PRI to evaluate the nutritional status.
Variable pulmonary manifestations in Chitayat syndrome: Six additional affected individuals
Authors: Suter Aude‐Annick , Santos‐Simarro Fernando , Toerring Pernille Mathiesen , Abad Perez Angela , Ramos‐Mejia Rosario , Heath Karen E. , Huckstadt Victoria , Parrón‐Pajares Manuel , Mensah Martin Atta , Hülsemann Wiebke , Holtgrewe Manuel , Mundlos Stefan , Kornak Uwe , Bartsch Oliver , Ehmke Nadja
Published: June 2020

Hand hyperphalangism leading to shortened index fingers with ulnar deviation, hallux valgus, mild facial dysmorphism and respiratory compromise requiring assisted ventilation are the key features of Chitayat syndrome. This condition results from the recurrent heterozygous missense variant NM_006494.2:c.266A>G; p.(Tyr89Cys) in ERF on chromosome 19q13.2, encoding the ETS2 repressor factor (ERF) protein. The pathomechanism of Chitayat syndrome is unknown. To date, seven individuals with Chitayat syndrome and the recurrent pathogenic ERF variant have been reported in the literature. Here, we describe six additional individuals, among them only one presenting with a history of assisted ventilation, and the remaining presenting with variable pulmonary phenotypes, including one individual without any obvious pulmonary manifestations. Our findings widen the phenotype spectrum caused by the recurrent pathogenic variant in ERF, underline Chitayat syndrome as a cause of isolated skeletal malformations and therefore contribute to the improvement of diagnostic strategies in individuals with hand hyperphalangism.
Audit of advertised housing and support vacancies for people with disabilities in Australia
Authors: Callaway Libby , Tregloan Kate , Moore Lewis , Bould Em
Published: June 2020

The introduction of Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has changed the way housing and support are delivered to Scheme participants. NDIS policy reform focuses on coordinated housing and support responses. These responses are guided by the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Rule, Framework and pricing and Supported Independent Living payments. To date, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has only released limited data to understand SDA demand or inform market development. To understand changing housing and support approaches and the impact of NDIS housing policy on market responses, this research had three aims: (1) to examine the locations and characteristics of housing and support vacancies advertised for people with disability; (2) to investigate funding sources for, and providers of, these supported housing options; and (3) to examine the proportion and source of government, nonprofit and private sector funding for housing and support developments advertised. An audit was undertaken of all advertisements on the two main non‐government organisation Websites that list Australian supported housing vacancies. A total of 562 property adverts were reviewed in March 2019. Audit findings are considered in relation to the current NDIS policy context. Possible housing futures and market gaps for people with significant and permanent disability in Australia are discussed.
Difficulty and help with activities of daily living among older adults living alone with cognitive impairment
Authors: Edwards Ryan D. , Brenowitz Willa D. , Portacolone Elena , Covinsky Ken E. , Bindman Andrew , Glymour M. Maria , Torres Jacqueline M.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

There is limited research on difficulties with activities of daily living (I/ADLs) among older adults living alone with cognitive impairment, including differences by race/ethnicity.

Methods

For U.S. Health and Retirement Study (2000–2014) participants aged 55+ living alone with cognitive impairment (4,666 individuals; 9,091 observations), we evaluated I/ADL difficulty and help.

Results

Among 4.3 million adults aged 55+ living alone with cognitive impairment, an estimated 46% reported an I/ADL difficulty; 72% reported not receiving help with an I/ADL. Women reported more difficulty than men. Compared to white women, black women were 22% more likely to report a difficulty without help, and Latina women were 36% more likely to report a difficulty with help. Among men, racial/ethnic differences in outcomes were not significant. Patterns of difficulty without help by race/ethnicity were similar among Medicaid beneficiaries.

Discussion

Findings call for targeted efforts to support older adults living alone with cognitive impairment.
An agnostic reevaluation of the amyloid cascade hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis: The role of APP homeostasis
Authors: Caselli Richard J. , Knopman David S. , Bu Guojun
Published: June 2020

Objective

To reassess the role of amyloid beta (Aβ) and the amyloid precursor protein (APP) system in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Background

APP is a cell adhesion molecule that has been highly conserved over the course of phylogeny that has critical roles in brain development, synaptic plasticity, and the brain's intrinsic immune system. The amyloid cascade hypothesis describes a relatively linear, deterministic sequence of events triggered by a gain of Aβ peptide fragment toxicity that results in neurodegeneration and cognitive loss, yet well designed immunotherapy and beta secretase inhibitor trials that have successfully targeted Aβ have failed to have any consistent effects on the steady decline of cognition.

New/updated hypothesis

Mutations of the APP and presenilin genes not only alter the ratio of longer to shorter Aβ fragments (resulting in a gain of Aβ toxicity), but also disrupt the normal homeostatic roles of their respective proteins. The evolutionary history, physiological importance, and complexity of the APP and presenilin systems, as well as other critical components including tau and apolipoprotein E (APOE) imply that altered function of such systems could have severe consequences that include but need not be limited to a gain of Aβ toxicity and would more generally result in altered homeostasis of APP‐related functions.

Major challenges addressed by our hypothesis

Challenges that a loss of APP homeostasis addresses better than the more limited gain of Aβ toxicity model include the topographic mismatches between Aβ and tau pathology, the profile and chronology of cognitive and biomarker changes that precede the clinical expression of mild cognitive impairment and dementia, and the disappointments of Aβ targeted therapeutics among others.

Linkage to other major theories

The importance of APP, α‐ and β‐secretases, the presenilins and γ‐secretase, as well as tau was recognized by the authors of the amyloid cascade hypothesis, and has since led multiple investigators to propose alternative, more balanced hypotheses including reduced homeostasis and frank loss‐of‐function of key components that include but go beyond the currently envisioned linear model of Aβ toxicity.
Enhanced catalytic performance of copper iodide in 1,2,3‐triazole‐imidazole hybrid synthesis, and evaluation of their anti‐cancer activities along with optical properties besides 1H‐tetrazole‐imidazole hybrids
Authors: Fakhree Ameneh Abolghassemi , Ghasemi Zarrin , Rahimi Mahdi , Shahrisa Aziz
Published: June 2020

New triazole‐imidazole and tetrazole‐imidazole hybrids were obtained using 2,4,5‐triaryl‐1‐(4‐aminophenyl) imidazoles by copper‐catalyzedazide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) and Ugi‐azidefour‐component(UA‐4CRs) process. The synthesis of triazole hybrids was performed in the presence of new copper‐incorporated white sandstone nanocatalyst, which was fully characterized by different methods. The construction of newly prepared hybrids was confirmed by spectroscopic techniques. Some of these compounds were evaluated for their anti‐cancer properties against MCF‐7 cancer cell lines. The absorption and emission parameters of the triazole‐ and tetrazole‐substituted imidazoles were also investigated and compared with each other.
Manganese oxide nanoparticles supported on graphene oxide as an efficient nanocatalyst for the synthesis of 1,2,4‐oxadiazoles from aldehydes
Authors: Saadati Fariba , Kaboudin Babak , Hasanloei Rana , Namazifar Zeinab , Marset Xavier , Guillena Gabriela
Published: June 2020

The easy synthesis of graphene oxide (GO)‐supported manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoparticles as a stable heterogeneous nanocatalyst (MnO2@GO) is described. This catalyst was investigated in the synthesis of 1,2,4‐oxadiazoles from amidoximes and aldehydes via a cyclization and oxidation process. The nanocomposite was prepared and characterized using various techniques. The catalytic application of the nanocomposite was examined in the reaction of a variety of aldehydes with aliphatic and aromatic amidoximes. The stable and robust catalyst was recycled for seven consecutive runs without a significant decrease in the catalytic activity.
New s‐block complexes of 1,10‐phenanthroline and 1,3‐benzothizole‐2‐thiolate inhibit ureasein silicoandin vitro
Authors: Shah Syed Raza , Shah Zarbad , Khiat Mohammed , Halim Sobia A. , Khan Ajmal , Hussain Javid , Csuk Rene , Anwar Muhammad U. , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed
Published: June 2020

The coordination chemistry of 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen) and sodium 1,3‐benzothiazole‐2‐thiolate (SBT) with selected s‐block elements has been investigated. Four metal complexes were prepared and their structures were characterized using a variety of analytical techniques including infrared, UV–visible,1H NMR and13C NMR spectroscopies, elemental analysis, mass spectrometry and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The reactions of phen and SBT with M(X)n(M = K(I), Cs(I), Mg(II), Sr(II); X = OH−, CO3−, Cl−;n= 1, 2) in MeOH–H2O yielded one‐dimensional chains of both potassium [K2(phen)2(BT)2(H2O)4]n(1) and caesium [Cs(phen)(BS)(H2O)]n(2) (where BT = 1,3‐benzthiazole‐2‐thiolate and BS = 1,3‐benzthiazole‐2‐sulfinothiolate) and mononuclear complexes of both magnesium {[Mg(phen)(H2O)4](BT)2·phen} (3) and strontium {[Sr(phen)2(H2O)4](BT)2} (4). In these complexes, phen binds via an N,N′ chelate pocket, while the monoanonic BT−ligands either coordinate in a bidentate fashion (in the case of1) or remain uncoordinated (in the case of3and4). In complex2, SBT ligand was oxidizedin situinto a new BS ligand. The sulfinothiolate oxygen atoms in BS coordinate with caesium in a tridentate fashion. Complexes1–4were evaluated against urease for enzyme inhibition. The complexes displayed significant inhibition with IC50values in the range 10.8–45.8 μM. In order to examine the structure–activity relationship, the complexes were docked at the active site of urease. Docking results clearly demonstrate the binding of each complex within the active site of the enzyme.
Benzimidazole bearing Pd–PEPPSI complexes catalyzed direct C2‐arylation/heteroarylation ofN‐substituted benzimidazoles
Authors: Gokanapalli Anusha , Motakatla Venkata Krishna Reddy , Peddiahgari Vasu Govardhana Reddy
Published: June 2020

A convenient and highly efficient palladium‐catalyzed direct C2‐arylation/heteroarylation ofN‐substituted benzimidazole derivatives such asN‐benzyl/3‐chlorobenzyl/2,4,6‐trimethylbenzyl/2,4,6‐triisopropylbenzyl/aryl benzimidazoles with various aryl/heteroaryl bromides in the presence of Pd–PEPPSI (palladium‐pyridine enhanced pre‐catalyst preparation stabilization and initiation) complexes is reported. In order to that we have prepared a series of different symmetrical and unsymmetricalN,N′‐diaralkyl benzimidazole‐bearing Pd–PEPPSI complexes. Among all of the the prepared complexes, Pd–PEPPSI‐3effectively tuned the reaction at a relatively higher rate under mild reaction conditions in an ethanol–water system. In addition, the catalytic process avoids the use of external ligand and additives. Further the reactivity was compared with commercially available copper‐N‐heterocyclic carbene catalyst, but the reaction was less successful. With the optimized reaction conditions, a wide range of 2‐aryl/heteroaryl‐N‐substituted benzimidazoles were synthesized in good to excellent yields via Csp2‐H/Csp2‐X biaryl cross‐coupling.