bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liming Effects of Sawdust Ash and Lime on Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Yield in Acidic Soil of Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Ogbenna C. V. , Osodeke V. E.
Published: July 2019

Aim: A pot experiment was carried out to determine the effect of sawdust ash and lime (Ca(OH)2) on soil characteristics and yield of sunflower in acidic soil of southeastern Nigeria.

Study Design: The experiment was laid out in split-plot design, using sawdust ash (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 t ha-1) as the sub plot and lime (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 t ha-1) as the main plot.

Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted outdoors at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Nigeria, during the 2010 planting season.

Materials and Methods: Treatment combinations were applied to the 60 buckets containing soil, mixed thoroughly and watered adequately. After 1 week of treatment application, two sunflower seeds were planted and later thinned to one seedling per bucket. Plant growth and yield data were collected. Pre planting and post-harvest soil samples were collected and analyzed for soil properties.

Results: Results showed that with the exception of organic carbon there was significant effect of treatments on all soil chemical properties. Lime and sawdust ash (SDA) as single and combined treatments significantly increased total nitrogen (P=0.05), available phosphorus (P<0.010), and base saturation (P<0.012). The interaction between SDA and lime significantly (P=0.05) increased total exchangeable bases and effective cation exchange capacity, while soil pH was significantly increased (P=0.05) by single applications. The increases in soil chemical properties led to significant positive response of the sunflower. With the exception of number of leaves, other plant parameters (Plant height, stem diameter, head weight, 50 seed weight, head diameter) had significant increases for sawdust ash alone at P=0.05. Correlation studies showed positive significant relationship between soil pH and sunflower yield.

Conclusion: The study showed that sunflower performed best at the combination of 3 tha-1 SDA and 1.5 t ha-1 lime producing a mean head weight of 45.4 g.
Germination and Longevity of Some Cowpea Cultivars Affected by Single and Mixed Virus Infections in Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdullahi A. A. , Salaudeen M. T. , Wada A. C. , Ibrahim H.
Published: July 2019

Cowpea being a dependable source of protein for human growth and development is widely cultivated in sub-Saharan Africa including Nigeria. In spite of its numerous uses, infection by viruses constitutes serious problems to its productivity and once plants are infected, there is no remedy as is with other pathogens such as bacteria, fungi and nematodes. A field trial was conducted to investigate the reactions of twenty five cowpea cultivars to single and mixed infections with two unrelated viruses: Blackeye cowpea mosaic virus (BlCMV) and Cowpea mottle virus (CPMoV) on seed germination and longevity. The trial was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Mokwa Station and set up in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. For the single virus infection, seedlings of the twenty five cultivars were inoculated at 10 days after sowing (DAS), while for the mixed virus infections, seedlings were inoculated at 10 and 17 DAS. Results showed that all the cultivars were susceptible to single and mixed infections but to seemingly different extents. Germination of seeds was generally high before storage but was short lived indicating that conservation of infected seeds of the cultivars was impaired. Seeds of cultivars IT04K-267-8 and IT07K-222-2 recorded germination percentages of 54.6 and 53.7% respectively, while cultivars IT96D-610 and IT04K-291-2 had germination values of 52% which did not differ from each other. Viability of seeds amongst the 25 test cowpea cultivars from single infection with CPMoV alone and BICMV alone did not differ in some instances. Percent germination in cultivars IT98K-205-M8, IT90K-277-2 and IT07K-222-2 inoculated with BICMV + CPMoV were not much affected. Test of accelerated ageing germination (AAG) percentage for four weeks showed that seed vigour was greatly impaired in cultivars IT07K-292-2-10, IT06K-124 and IT90K-277-2 infected with BICMV + CPMoV compared to the  lowest AAG percentage of 31.6 recorded in seeds of cultivar IT99K-377-1. Constant monitoring of legume fields through regular field sanitation and disease surveys to identify new and emerging viruses as facts obtained from this study are good starting point for legume virus diseases diagnosis.
Distribution of Primary Nutrients (NPK) to Crop Production in Profiles of Soils Derived from Coastal Plain Sand in Ikot Ekpo, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Eyong M. O. , Akpa E. A.
Published: July 2019

This study was conducted to evaluate the distribution of primary nutrients (NPK) in profiles of the coastal plain soils of Ikot Ekpo, Calabar, as well as evaluate other soil properties critical to agricultural productivity, in a bid to generate data that will serve as a guide to effective land use and management of the soils for arable crop production. Three (3) Profile pits were dug on the crest, middle slope and valley bottom, and soil samples were collected from their pedogenetic horizons for analysis. Analytical results showed the three profiles of coastal plain soils studied had predominantly sandy particle sizes (ranged from 770 - 910 gkg-1 sand across the three profiles) and mostly loamy sand in texture; especially at the topsoil level. The soils were also acidic (pH 4.7 to 5.1) and low in organic matter (1.0 mg kg-1 to 16.0 mg kg-1) as expected. Generally, the soils were found to be low in total nitrogen content (0.1 to 1.3 mg kg-1) and exchangeable potassium (0.08 to 0.10 cmolc kg-1); however, they were high in available phosphorus (17.20 to 29.75 mg kg-1). NPK distribution charts showed that N and P decreased consecutively with increasing depth for the crest profile. The middle-slope and valley bottom profile showed no definite pattern of distribution. However, the concentration of NPK was highest at topsoil level across most profiles. N had the shallowest intra-profile distribution with significantly higher levels of topsoil concentration indicated by the high percentages of intra-profile CV (94%, 85% & 97% for CUF, MUF & VUF respectively). P showed a shallow intra-profile distribution across the three profiles but did not vary significantly from the intra-profile mean (12.5%, 12.0% & 2.6% for CUF, MUF & VUF respectively). On the other hand K was more evenly distributed within all three profiles ( CV  of 9.4%, 5.3% & 8.6% for CUF, MUF & VUF respective) compared to N and P. Inter-profile distribution of NPK showed that N and P had higher concentrations at crest level, with P showing consecutive decrease in concentration down the slope. This study therefore recommends adoption of different NPK fertilizer recommendations for different soil depths and topographic locations for optimal productivity.
Molecular identification and diapause‐related functional characterization of a novel dual‐specificity kinase gene, MPKL, in Locusta migratoria
Authors: Hao Kun , Ullah Hidayat , Jarwar Aftab Raza , Nong Xiangqun , Tu Xiongbing , Zhang Zehua
Published: July 2019

Diapause is an important overwintering strategy enabling Locusta migratoria to survive under stressed conditions. We identified a novel dual‐specificity kinase gene that is differentially expressed between long and short day‐treated L. migratoria. To determine its function on photoperiodic diapause induction, we cloned the specific gene. Interestingly, phylogenetic analysis shows that this dual‐specificity kinase is of the mycetozoa protein kinase‐like (MPKL) type and may have been transferred horizontally from Mycetozoa to L. migratoria. RNA interference results confirm that MPKL promotes photoperiodic diapause induction of L. migratoria. Furthermore, MPKL significantly inhibits Akt and FOXO (i.e. forkhead box protein O) phosphorylation levels in ovaries, and also enhances reactive oxygen species, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, whereas peroxidase activity is decreased under both photoperiodic regimes. The findings of the present study offer insight into the molecular mechanism responsible for dual‐specificity kinase‐induced diapause in insects.
Enhanced Delayed Fluorescence in Tetracene Crystals by Strong Light‐Matter Coupling
Authors: Berghuis Anton Matthijs , Halpin Alexei , Le‐Van Quynh , Ramezani Mohammad , Wang Shaojun , Murai Shunsuke , Gómez Rivas Jaime
Published: July 2019

An enhanced delayed fluorescence is demonstrated experimentally in tetracene single crystals strongly coupled to optical modes in open cavities formed by arrays of plasmonic nanoparticles. Hybridization of singlet excitons with collective plasmonic resonances in the arrays leads to the splitting of the material dispersion into a lower and an upper polariton band. This splitting significantly modifies the dynamics of the photoexcited tetracene crystal, resulting in an increase of the delayed fluorescence by a factor of 4. The enhanced delayed fluorescence is attributed to the emergence of an additional radiative decay channel, where the lower polariton band harvests long‐lived triplet states. There is also an increase in total emission, which is wavelength dependent, and can be explained by the direct emission from the lower polariton band, the more efficient light out‐coupling, and the enhancement of the excitation intensity. The observed enhanced fluorescence opens the possibility of efficient radiative triplet harvesting in open optical cavities, to improve the performance of organic light emitting diodes.
Molecular Orientation Unified Nonfullerene Acceptor Enabling 14% Efficiency As‐Cast Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Feng Haohao , Song Xin , Zhang Zhuohan , Geng Renyong , Yu Jiangsheng , Yang Linqiang , Baran Derya , Tang Weihua
Published: July 2019

Molecular orientation and π–π stacking of nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) determine its domain size and purity in bulk‐heterojunction blends with a polymer donor. Two novel NFAs featuring an indacenobis(dithieno[3,2‐b:2ʹ,3ʹ‐d]pyrrol) core with meta‐ or para‐alkoxyphenyl sidechains are designed and denoted as m‐INPOIC or p‐INPOIC, respectively. The impact of the alkoxyl group positioning on molecular orientation and photovoltaic performance of NFAs is revealed through a comparison study with the counterpart (INPIC‐4F) bearing para‐alkylphenyl sidechains. With inward constriction toward the conjugated backbone, m‐INPOIC presents predominant face‐on orientation to promote charge transport. The as‐cast organic solar cells (OSCs) by blending m‐INPOIC and PBDB‐T as active layers exhibit a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.1%. By introducing PC71BM as the solid processing‐aid, the ternary OSCs are further optimized to deliver an impressive PCE of 14.0%, which is among the highest PCEs for as‐cast single‐junction OSCs reported in literature to date. More attractively, PBDB‐T:m‐INPOIC:PC71BM based OSCs exhibit over 11% PCEs even with an active layer thickness over 300 nm. And the devices can retain over 95% of PCE after storage for 20 days. The outstanding tolerance to film thickness and outstanding stability of the as‐cast devices make m‐INPOIC a promising candidate NFA for large‐scale solution‐processable OSCs.
Fetal diagnosis of Mowat‐Wilson syndrome by whole exome sequencing
Authors: Evans Carey‐Anne , Pinner Jason , Chan Cheng Y. , Bowyer Lucy , Mowat David , Buckley Michael F. , Roscioli Tony
Published: July 2019

Mowat‐Wilson syndrome (MWS) is a complex genetic disorder associated with heterozygous variation in ZEB2. It is mainly characterized by moderate‐to‐severe intellectual disability, facial dysmorphism, epilepsy, and various malformations including Hirschsprung disease, corpus callosum anomalies, and congenital heart defects. It is rarely diagnosed prenatally and there is limited information available on the prenatal phenotype associated with MWS. Here we report the detection of a heterozygous de novo nonsense variant in ZEB2 by whole exome sequencing in a fetus with microphthalmia in addition to cardiac defects and typical MWS facial dysmorphism. As the prenatal phenotypic spectrum of MWS expands, the routine addition of fetal genomic testing particularly in the presence of multiple malformations will increase both the sensitivity and specificity of prenatal diagnostics.
Metal‐Free Hydroxyalkylation‐Initiated Radical Cyclization of 1,6‐Enynes with Alcohols
Authors: Meng Xiao‐Xiao , Cao Ting‐Ting , Song Si‐Zhe , Zhou Guodong , Li Qiang , Wei Wen‐Ting
Published: July 2019

Without employing any metal catalyst or organic solvents, a practical, efficient and environmentally attractive protocol has been established for the hydroxyalkylation‐initiated radical cyclization of 1,6‐enynes with alcohols under open air conditions. This transformation proceeds through C(sp3)−H bond functionalization, oxyalkylation and intramolecular cyclization, providing a novel approach to 2‐pyrrolidinones in good to excellent yields.
Triplet Fullerenes as Prospective Spin Labels for Nanoscale Distance Measurements by Pulsed Dipolar EPR Spectroscopy
Authors: Krumkacheva Olesya A. , Timofeev Ivan O. , Politanskaya Larisa V. , Polienko Yuliya F. , Tretyakov Evgeny V. , Rogozhnikova Olga Yu. , Trukhin Dmitry V. , Tormyshev Victor M. , Chubarov Alexey S. , Bagryanskaya Elena G. , Fedin Matvey V.
Published: July 2019

Precise nanoscale distance measurements by pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy play a crucial role in structural studies of biomolecules. The properties of the spin labels used in this approach determine the sensitivity limits, attainable distances, and proximity to biological conditions. Herein, we propose and validate the use of photoexcited fullerenes as spin labels for pulsed dipolar (PD) EPR distance measurements. Hyperpolarization and the narrower spectrum of fullerenes compared to other triplets (e.g., porphyrins) boost the sensitivity, and superior relaxation properties allow PD EPR measurements up to a near‐room temperature. This approach is demonstrated using fullerene–nitroxide and fullerene–triarylmethyl pairs, as well as a supramolecular complex of fullerene with nitroxide‐labeled protein. Photoexcited triplet fullerenes can be considered as new spin labels with outstanding spectroscopic properties for future structural studies of biomolecules.
Perylene π‐Bridges Equally Delocalize Anions and Cations: Proportioned Quinoidal and Aromatic Content
Authors: Mayorga Burrezo Paula , Zeng Wangdong , Moos Michael , Holzapfel Marco , Canola Sofia , Negri Fabrizia , Rovira Concepciò , Veciana Jaume , Phan Hoa , Wu Jishan , Lambert Christoph , Casado Juan
Published: July 2019

A complete experimental and theoretical study has been carried out for aromatic and quinoidal perylene‐based bridges substituted with bis(diarylamine) and bis(arylimine) groups respectively. The through‐bridge inter‐redox site electronic couplings (VAB) have been calculated for their respective mixed‐valence radical cation and radical anion species. The unusual similitudes of the resulting VAB values for the given structures reveal the intervention of molecular shapes with balanced semi‐quinoidal/semi‐aromatic structures in the charge delocalization. An identical molecular object equally responding to the injection of either positive or negative charges is rare in the field of organic π‐conjugated molecules. However, once probed herein for perylene‐based systems, it can be extrapolated to other π‐conjugated bridges. As a result, this work opens the door to the rational design of true ambipolar bulk and molecular conductors.
Synthesis of Polyethylene with In‐Chain α,β‐Unsaturated Ketone and Isolated Ketone Units: Pd‐Catalyzed Ring‐Opening Copolymerization of Cyclopropenone with Ethylene
Authors: Wang Xiaoming , Seidel Falk William , Nozaki Kyoko
Published: July 2019

Although various functionalized units can be incorporated into polyolefins by transition metal catalyzed coordination copolymerizations of nonfunctionalized olefins with polar functional monomers, the incorporated functional units are largely limited to a C1 unit from either CO or C2 units from vinyl monomers. Reported here is the Pd‐catalyzed copolymerization of ethylene with cyclopropenone, leading to incorporation of C3 units with functional groups, α,β‐unsaturated ketones, in the chain. Coordination‐insertion of the carbonyl group and ring opening of the strained three‐membered ring are proposed as the key steps in the mechanism. Under different reaction conditions an isolated ketone structure was afforded as the major carbonyl unit, and could be generated by the copolymerization of ethylene with CO formed in situ from cyclopropenone.
Electron Transfer to Decorated Graphene Oxide Particles
Authors: Miao Ruiyang , Chen Lifu , Shao Lidong , Zhang Bingsen , Compton Richard G.
Published: July 2019

Graphene oxides (GOs) are popular catalyst supports for precious metals in nanoparticle form. The hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) on individual GO platelets decorated with Pd nanoparticles (Pd/GOs) were investigated. The results suggest that the catalytic activity is confined to the zone physically close to the point of electrical contact between platelet and electrode with just a fraction of the platelet active.
White‐Light Emission from a Semi‐Conductive Borate‐Stannate
Authors: Lin Yuan , Wang Guan‐E , Hu Chun‐Li , Feng Jiang‐He , Li Li‐Na , Mao Jiang‐Gao
Published: July 2019

In response to ever‐increasing application requirements in lighting and displays, a tremendous emphasis is being placed on single‐component white‐light emission. Single‐component inorganic borates doped with rare earth metal ions have shown prominent achievements in white‐light emission. The first environmentally friendly defect‐induced white‐light emitting crystalline inorganic borate, Ba2[Sn(OH)6][B(OH)4]2, has been prepared. Additionally, it is the first borate‐stannate without a Sn−O−B linkage. Notably, Ba2[Sn(OH)6][B(OH)4]2 shows Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) chromaticity coordinates of (0.42, 0.38), an ultrahigh color rendering index (CRI) of 94.1, and an appropriate correlated color temperature (CCT) of 3083 K. Such a promising material will provide a new approach in the development of white‐light emitting applications.
Periodic Melting of Oligonucleotides by Oscillating Salt Concentrations Triggered by Microscale Water Cycles Inside Heated Rock Pores
Authors: Ianeselli Alan , Mast Christof B. , Braun Dieter
Published: July 2019

To understand the emergence of life, a better understanding of the physical chemistry of primordial non‐equilibrium conditions is essential. Significant salt concentrations are required for the catalytic function of RNA. The separation of oligonucleotides into single strands is a difficult problem as the hydrolysis of RNA becomes a limiting factor at high temperatures. Salt concentrations modulate the melting of DNA or RNA, and its periodic modulation would enable melting and annealing cycles at low temperatures. In our experiments, a moderate temperature difference created a miniaturized water cycle, resulting in fluctuations in salt concentration, leading to melting of oligonucleotides at temperatures 20 °C below the melting temperature. This would enable the reshuffling of duplex oligonucleotides, necessary for ligation chain replication. The findings suggest an autonomous route to overcome the strand‐separation problem of non‐enzymatic replication in early evolution.
Basic [Au25(SCH2CH2Py)18]−⋅Na+ Clusters: Synthesis, Layered Crystallographic Arrangement, and Unique Surface Protonation
Authors: Huang Zhong , Ishida Yohei , Yonezawa Tetsu
Published: July 2019

The synthesis of high‐purity and high‐yield Au25 clusters protected by the basic pyridyl ethanethiol (HSCH2CH2Py, 4‐PyET and 2‐PyET) is presented. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction of the [Au25(4‐PyET)18]−⋅Na+ clusters has revealed a structure similar to that known for the phenyl ethanethiolate analogue, but with pyridyl‐N coordination to Na+, a more relaxed ligand shell, and a profoundly layered arrangement in the solid state. Because of the pendant Py moiety, the [Au25(PyET)18]− clusters are endowed with unique (de)protonation equilibria, which has been characterized in detail by UV/Vis absorption and 1H NMR spectroscopy. [Au25(PyET)18]− clusters showed an unexpectedly H+‐dependent solubility that is tunable in aqueous and organic solvents. The successful synthesis of the basic Py‐terminated thiolate‐protected Au25 clusters paves the way to realize a new family of metalloid clusters possessing basic properties.
Cover Image, Volume 13, Issue 4
Authors: Nugroho Yohanes K. , Zhu Liandong
Published: July 2019

The cover image by is based on the Modeling and Analysis An integration of algal biofuel production planning, scheduling, and order‐based inventory distribution control systems by Yohanes K. Nugroho and Liandong Zhu, DOI: 10.1002/bbb.1982.

image
Survival of infants with spina bifida and the role of maternal prepregnancy body mass index
Authors: Pace Nelson D. , Siega‐Riz Anna Maria , Olshan Andrew F. , Chescheir Nancy C. , Cole Stephen R. , Desrosiers Tania A. , Tinker Sarah C. , Hoyt Adrienne T. , Canfield Mark A. , Carmichael Suzan L. , Meyer Robert E. ,   The National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: July 2019

Objective

To investigate first‐year survival of infants born with spina bifida, and examine the association of maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) with infant mortality.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of 1,533 liveborn infants with nonsyndromic spina bifida with estimated dates of delivery from 1998 to 2011 whose mothers were eligible for the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS). NBDPS data were linked to death records to conduct survival analyses. Kaplan–Meier survival functions estimated mortality risk over the first year of life. Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for maternal prepregnancy BMI categorized as underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25–29.9), and obese (≥30).

Results

Infant mortality risk among infants with spina bifida was (4.4% [3.52, 5.60%]). Infants with multiple co‐occurring defects, very preterm delivery, multiple gestation, high‐level spina bifida lesions, or non‐Hispanic Black mothers had an elevated risk of infant mortality. Maternal prepregnancy underweight and obesity were associated with higher infant mortality (15.7% [7.20, 32.30%] and 5.82% [3.60, 9.35%], respectively). Adjusted HR estimates showed underweight and obese mothers had greater hazard of infant mortality compared to normal weight mothers (HR: 4.5 [1.08, 16.72] and 2.6 [1.36, 8.02], respectively).

Conclusion

The overall risk of infant mortality for infants born with spina bifida was lower than most previously reported estimates. Infants born with spina bifida to mothers who were underweight or obese prepregnancy were at higher risk of infant mortality. This study provides additional evidence of the importance of healthy maternal weight prior to pregnancy.
A replication of the response‐restriction preference assessment
Authors: Boyle Megan A. , Curtis Kaitlin S. , Forck Kara L. , Fudge Brittany M. , Speake Heather N. , Pauls Benjamin P.
Published: July 2019

We replicated the response‐restriction (RR) preference assessment and compared results in terms of preference hierarchies to those from free‐operant and multiple stimulus without replacement (MSWO) formats with six children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). We also assessed social validity of each format with teachers and clinicians who work with children with ASDs. Complete hierarchies were produced in four of 18 assessments and with MSWO and RR formats only. Results of the social validity assessment varied across raters, with each preference assessment format receiving the highest rating from at least one rater. Results are discussed in terms of practical recommendations and relative to the preference assessment literature as a whole.
Mycoplasma hyorhinis infection promotes gastric cancer cell motility via β‐catenin signaling
Authors: Liu Xia , Rong Zhuona , Shou Chengchao
Published: July 2019

Background

We previously identified that Mycoplasma hyorhinis infection promotes gastric cancer cell motility. The β‐catenin signaling pathway is critical to determining malignant cancer cell phenotypes; however, the association between M hyorhinis and the β‐catenin signaling pathway is unclear.

Methods

We performed subcellular fractionation and immunofluorescence staining to observe β‐catenin accumulation in the nucleus. The expression of downstream β‐catenin genes was detected by quantitative RT‐PCR. Gastric cancer cell motility was examined by transwell chamber migration and wound healing assays, and a co‐immunoprecipitation assay was used to detect the proteins associated with the membrane protein p37 of M hyorhinis.

Results

We found that M hyorhinis infection promoted nuclear β‐catenin accumulation and enhanced the expression of downstream β‐catenin genes. M hyorhinis‐promoted gastric cancer cell motility was counteracted by treatment with the β‐catenin inhibitor XAV939 or β‐catenin knockdown. We further detected a protein complex containing LRP6, GSK3β, and p37 in M hyorhinis‐infected cells. M hyorhinis also induced LRP6 phosphorylation in a GSK3β‐dependent fashion. Knockdown of LRP6 or GSK3β abolished M hyorhinis‐induced cell motility.

Conclusion

Our results reveal that the β‐catenin signaling pathway could be activated by M hyorhinis infection, thereby contributing to M hyorhinis‐induced gastric cancer cell motility.
A favorable inductive remission rate for decitabine combined with chemotherapy as a first course in <60‐year‐old acute myeloid leukemia patients with myelodysplasia syndrome features
Authors: Liu Fengqi , Wang Hehua , Liu Junru , Zhou Zhenhai , Zheng Dong , Huang Beihui , Su Chang , Zou Waiyi , Xu Duorong , Tong Xiuzhen , Li Juan
Published: July 2019

In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myelodysplasia‐related changes contribute to a poor prognosis. This retrospective, propensity score‐matched study analyzed 108 newly diagnosed AML patients with features of myelodysplasia syndrome (MDS) (aged 14‐60 years) from 2014 to 2018, who received either idarubicin and cytarabine (IA) or decitabine, idarubicin and cytarabine (DAC+IA), and compared efficacy and toxicity between the two regimens. After propensity score matching, there were 54 patients in each group. The rate of complete remission (CR) was higher in the DAC+IA group than in the IA group (85.2% vs 68.5%, P = .040) after the first course, and toxicities were comparable in both groups. Multivariate analysis indicated that the combination with DAC was independent factor for CR rate after the first induction therapy (OR = 2.978, 95% CI:1.090‐8.137, P = .033). Subgroup analysis showed a CR advantage for DAC+IA (vs IA) for patients of intermediate‐high risk status according to National Comprehensive Cancer Network prognostic stratification. In conclusion, DAC+IA is therefore offered as a new induction choice for newly diagnosed AML patients with features of MDS, aged <60 years old, especially in intermediate‐high risk status.
A π‐Conjugated, Covalent Phosphinine Framework
Authors: Huang Jieyang , Tarábek Ján , Kulkarni Ranjit , Wang Cui , Dračínský Martin , Smales Glen J. , Tian Yu , Ren Shijie , Pauw Brian R. , Resch‐Genger Ute , Bojdys Michael J.
Published: July 2019

Structural modularity of polymer frameworks is a key advantage of covalent organic polymers, however, only C, N, O, Si, and S have found their way into their building blocks so far. Here, the toolbox available to polymer and materials chemists is expanded by one additional nonmetal, phosphorus. Starting with a building block that contains a λ5‐phosphinine (C5P) moiety, a number of polymerization protocols are evaluated, finally obtaining a π‐conjugated, covalent phosphinine‐based framework (CPF‐1) through Suzuki–Miyaura coupling. CPF‐1 is a weakly porous polymer glass (72.4 m2 g−1 BET at 77 K) with green fluorescence (λmax=546 nm) and extremely high thermal stability. The polymer catalyzes hydrogen evolution from water under UV and visible light irradiation without the need for additional co‐catalyst at a rate of 33.3 μmol h−1 g−1. These results demonstrate for the first time the incorporation of the phosphinine motif into a complex polymer framework. Phosphinine‐based frameworks show promising electronic and optical properties, which might spark future interest in their applications in light‐emitting devices and heterogeneous catalysis.
Design of a Highly Active Pd Catalyst with P,N Hemilabile Ligands for Alkoxycarbonylation of Alkynes and Allenes: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Ahmad Shahbaz , Bühl Michael
Published: July 2019

In the palladium‐catalysed methoxycarbonylation of technical propyne, the presence of propadiene poisons the hemilabile Pd(P,N) catalyst. According to density functional theory calculations (B3PW91‐D3/PCM level), a highly stable π‐allyl intermediate is the reason for this catalyst poisoning. Predicted regioselectivities suggest that at least 11 % of propadiene should yield this allyl intermediate, in which the reaction gets stalled under the turnover conditions due to an insurmountable methanolysis barrier of 25.8 kcal mol−1. The results obtained for different ligands and substrates are consistent with the available experimental data. A new ligand, (6‐Cl‐3‐Me‐Py)PPh2, is proposed, which is predicted to efficiently control the branched/linear selectivity, avoiding rapid poisoning (with only 0.2 % of propadiene being trapped as the Pd allyl complex), and to tremendously increase the catalytic activity by decreasing the overall barrier to 9.1 kcal mol−1.
The Effect of Branching on the One‐ and Two‐Photon Absorption, Cell Viability, and Localization of Cationic Triarylborane Chromophores with Dipolar versus Octupolar Charge Distributions for Cellular Imaging
Authors: Griesbeck Stefanie , Michail Evripidis , Rauch Florian , Ogasawara Hiroaki , Wang Chenguang , Sato Yoshikatsu , Edkins Robert M. , Zhang Zuolun , Taki Masayasu , Lambert Christoph , Yamaguchi Shigehiro , Marder Todd B.
Published: July 2019

Two different chromophores, namely a dipolar and an octupolar system, were prepared and their linear and nonlinear optical properties as well as their bioimaging capabilities were compared. Both contain triphenylamine as the donor and a triarylborane as the acceptor, the latter modified with cationic trimethylammonio groups to provide solubility in aqueous media. The octupolar system exhibits a much higher two‐photon brightness, and also better cell viability and enhanced selectivity for lysosomes compared with the dipolar chromophore. Furthermore, both dyes were applied in two‐photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) live‐cell imaging.
A Molecular Tool Targeting the Base‐Flipping Activity of Human UHRF1
Authors: Zaayter Liliyana , Mori Mattia , Ahmad Tanveer , Ashraf Waseem , Boudier Christian , Kilin Vasyl , Gavvala Krishna , Richert Ludovic , Eiler Sylvia , Ruff Marc , Botta Maurizio , Bronner Christian , Mousli Marc , Mély Yves
Published: July 2019

During DNA replication, ubiquitin‐like, containing PHD and RING fingers domains 1 (UHRF1) plays key roles in the inheritance of methylation patterns to daughter strands by recognizing through its SET and RING‐associated domain (SRA) the methylated CpGs and recruiting DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1). Herein, our goal is to identify UHRF1 inhibitors targeting the 5′‐methylcytosine (5mC) binding pocket of the SRA domain to prevent the recognition and flipping of 5mC and determine the molecular and cellular consequences of this inhibition. For this, we used a multidisciplinary strategy combining virtual screening and molecular modeling with biophysical assays in solution and cells. We identified an anthraquinone compound able to bind to the 5mC binding pocket and inhibit the base‐flipping process in the low micromolar range. We also showed in cells that this hit impaired the UHRF1/DNMT1 interaction and decreased the overall methylation of DNA, highlighting the critical role of base flipping for DNMT1 recruitment and providing the first proof of concept of the druggability of the 5mC binding pocket. The selected anthraquinone appears thus as a key tool to investigate the role of UHRF1 in the inheritance of methylation patterns, as well as a starting point for hit‐to‐lead optimizations.
Biomimetic Extreme‐Temperature‐ and Environment‐Adaptable Hydrogels
Authors: Zhou Dan , Chen Fan , Handschuh‐Wang Stephan , Gan Tiansheng , Zhou Xiaohu , Zhou Xuechang
Published: July 2019

Recently, temperature‐resistant hydrogels, hydrogels which are freezing‐ and dehydration‐resistant, have garnered considerable attention in the scientific community as they extend the rage of application of hydrogels to arid and/or cold environments. Besides, these hydrogels exhibit tunable conductivity and mechanical performance while offering excellent biocompatibility and flexibility, making them interesting candidates for flexible and wearable electronics and (bio)sensors. Several biomimetic strategies were developed to fabricate anti‐freezing and anti‐dehydration hydrogels with a diversity of merits, such as high strain resistance and conductivity, even at sub‐zero temperatures, and employed as (bio)sensors, electrodes, and energy‐storage devices. This review summarizes the recent advances in the preparation and application of temperature‐resistant hydrogels, indicates issues of the state‐of‐the‐art hydrogels, and offers potential future research directions.
Genome‐Wide Measurement and Computational Analysis of Transcription Factor Binding and Chromatin Accessibility in Lymphocytes
Authors: Sadiyah M. Firas , Roychoudhuri Rahul
Published: July 2019

Cells of the adaptive immune system, including CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, as well as B cells, possess the ability to undergo dynamic changes in population size, differentiation state, and function to counteract diverse and temporally stochastic threats from the external environment. To achieve this, lymphocytes must be able to rapidly control their gene‐expression programs in a cell‐type‐specific manner and in response to extrinsic signals. Such capacity is provided by transcription factors (TFs), which bind to the available repertoire of regulatory DNA elements in distinct lymphocyte subsets to program cell‐type‐specific gene expression. Here we provide a set of protocols that utilize massively parallel sequencing–based approaches to map genome‐wide TF‐binding sites and accessible chromatin, with consideration of the unique aspects and technical issues facing their application to lymphocytes. We show how to computationally validate and analyze aligned data to map differentially enriched/accessible sites, identify enriched DNA sequence motifs, and detect the position of nucleosomes adjacent to accessible DNA elements. These techniques, when applied to immune cells, can enhance our understanding of how gene‐expression programs are controlled within lymphocytes to coordinate immune function in homeostasis and disease. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Synthesis and Oligomerization of 10,16‐Dihydroxyhexadecanoyl Esters with Different Head‐Groups for the Study of CUS1 Selectivity
Authors: San Segundo Ignacio M. , Scavée Gauthier M. L. , Pedersen Sara B. R. , Segerson Nicholas , Rose Jocelyn K. C. , Clausen Mads H.
Published: July 2019

Members of the CUS family, suspected to be responsible for cutin polymerization, have shown in vitro activity towards sn‐2 glyceryl ester (2‐MAGs). To assess the selectivity of CUS enzymes towards esters with different headgroups, the CUS1 mediated in vitro polymerization of four monomers of 10,16‐dihydroxyhexadecanoic acid was investigated. Our results demonstrated that CUS1 is more selective towards sn‐2 glyceryl ester, reinforcing the hypothesis that 2‐MAGs are the monomeric precursors of the plant polyester cutin. Additionally, the absence of oxygen atoms in the headgroup negatively impacts the efficiency of polymerization.
Academic leaders share their advice
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: July 2019

I am not certain if the 39 authors included in Leading Colleges and Universities: Lessons from Higher Education Leaders would agree with Thomas Jefferson's assessment of the American presidency as “a splendid misery” if they applied his statement to a higher education presidency, but certainly the current challenges in higher education must at times make for some miserable days.
Focus on social media as vital element of graduate recruitment campaigns
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: July 2019

Stanley J. Kania III, Ph.D., M.B.A., has been involved in graduate enrollment management since 2011, when he was a graduate student and a graduate admissions counselor at Marywood University.
Alkaline electrochemical leaching of Sn and Pb from the surface of waste printed circuit board and the stripping of gold by methanesulfonic acid
Authors: Zhang Xiaojiao , Zhang Chenglong , Zheng Feilong , Ma En , Wang Ruixue , Bai Jianfeng , Yuan Wenyi , Wang Jingwei
Published: July 2019

The variety of metals and organic in the waste printed circuit board (PCB) that makes them harmful to environment but also contain high economic value. The precious metals of gold on the surface of waste PCB has a high recovery value. In this article, a cleaner hydrometallurgical process for production of Sn, Pb, and Au from the surface of waste PCB was developed. With the alkaline electrochemical leaching, 100% of Sn and Pb in the solder can be extracted at NaOH concentration of 3 mol/L, current density of 300A/m2, and temperature over 8°C after electrochemical leaching of 120 min, and the components can be removed simultaneously. With the technique of methane sulfonic acid etching, the copper and nickel undered the gold plate were leached and then the gold foil can be collected. The optimum conditions of methane sulfonic acid etching technique was explored: under the room temperature, with the solid‐liquid ratio of 1:5, the amount of the hydrogen peroxide is 20%, and the volume fraction of methane sulfonic acid is 15%, the soaking time of the phone board is 150 min (the coating flaking time varied slightly due to the type difference of plates), the recovering rate of gold may be up to 95%. In addition, the method has a good selectivity for element Au, the stripped gold can be melted directly, while the treated waste PCB can be used for other metal or nonmetal recovering, the solution can also be recycled after recovering copper and nickel.
Physicochemical conditions governing the formation of gold deposits along the southern margin of the North China Craton: A case study from the Chen'er deposit
Authors: Li Shi‐Sheng , Li Lin , Li Sheng‐Rong , Santosh M. , Yuan Mao‐Wen , Zhi Ze‐Ya , Wen Zi‐Hao
Published: July 2019

The Chen'er gold deposit hosted in the Precambrian Taihua Supergroup metamorphic rocks is one of the typical gold deposits in the Xiaoqinling region along the southern margin of the North China Craton. The metallic mineral assemblage in this deposit includes sulfides, tellurides, native gold, electrum, and native bismuth. The telluride minerals are composed of calaverite, petzite, hessite, altaite, joseite; except for hessite and matildite, the other tellurides and native bismuth are first reported in this study. Fluid inclusion studies in the auriferous quartz reveal three types: aqueous, aqueous–carbonic, and carbonic inclusions. The homogenization temperatures range from 184 to 364°C, and salinities are in the range of 1.74‐ to 11.47‐wt.% NaCl equiv. At temperatures of 275°C, the logfTe2 and logfS2 of the fluid are estimated as −16.13 to −8.19 and −12.74 to −4.80, respectively, and at temperatures of 305°C, the pH and logfO2 of the fluid are estimated as 3.61 to 5.69 and −34.31 to −27.81, respectively. It is inferred that Au(HS)2− and Au(HS)0 are the predominant gold‐bearing complexes, and tellurium was transported as Te22−. Based on thermodynamic models of logfO2(g) versus pH, we suggest that the precipitations of native gold and electrum in the early and main mineralization stages are different, with the oxygen and hydrogen isotope values of auriferous quartz suggesting mixing of magmatic water with meteoric water.
Reproductive justice and support for young fathers
Authors: Dukes Andre , Palm Glen
Published: July 2019

The current article addresses the interests and contributions of fathers to child development and well‐being within a reproductive and social justice framework. We present an overview of research on the role of fathers in the lives of children from the prenatal period through early childhood, with an emphasis on fathers as partners and caregivers in promoting the reproductive health and safety of women and the healthy development of young children. We explore especially the challenges of young, at‐risk fathers as well as system and practice opportunities that support their contributions as partners and parents. Our goal of the article is to extend the discourse on reproductive and social justice to include the shared responsibility of all parents and facilitate circumstances whereby children experience the support needed to become nurturing caregivers for the next generation.
Reconceiving the field: Infant mental health, intersectionality, and reproductive justice
Authors: St. John Maria Seymour
Published: July 2019

The field of infant mental health is conventionally comprised of professional discourses including developmental science, psychology, and psychiatry, among others, and involves spheres of practice as wide‐ranging as pediatrics, maternal/child health, early intervention, early care and education, and child welfare. The World Association of Infant Mental Health [WAIMH] put out its position paper on the rights of infants in 2014 (amended in March 2016) in recognition of the human rights implications of professional understanding of infants’ unique, yet universal, developmental capacities and needs. This article links the policy issues outlined in the WAIMH position paper with critical issues in the field of reproductive justice, extending the reach of WAIMH's call to action on behalf of infants’ rights, and pointing the way toward potent alliances among interconnected movements. Connecting the dots among economic injustice, race‐based health disparities, and gender inequities, the article demonstrates that it is not possible to safeguard infant mental health unless we make reproductive justice a reality.
Triptolide‐induced hepatotoxicity via apoptosis and autophagy in zebrafish
Authors: Huo Jingting , Yu Qinwei , Zhang Yun , Liu Kechun , Hsiao Chung‐Der , Jiang Zhenzhou , Zhang Luyong
Published: July 2019

Previous research about the development of triptolide (TP) as a natural active compound has often focused on hepatotoxicity. Among its various mechanisms, autophagy and apoptosis are two important signaling pathways. In this study, we used zebrafish to establish a TP‐induced hepatotoxicity model, and investigated the roles of autophagy and apoptosis in the progress of liver injury. Zebrafish exposed to TP showed increased mortality and malformation because of the increased drug dose and duration of exposure. Meanwhile, we found that TP induced liver injury in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner, which was observed as a reduction in liver area, slow yolk absorption, upregulation of transaminase and local neurosis. With the application of the high‐content imaging system (HCIS) technique in liver 3D imaging in vivo, clear imaging of the zebrafish liver was achieved. The results showed a decrease in volume and location of necrosis in the liver after TP exposure. Increased expression of inflammatory cytokines genes tumor necrosis factor (Tnf)α, Il1β and Il6 were shown, particularly Tnfα. The Fas‐Caspase8 signaling pathway was activated. The apoptosis‐related gene Bcl‐2 was increased, and Bax, Caspase9 and Caspase3 were increased. However, autophagy related genes Beclin1, Atg5, Atg3 and Lc3 were increased more significantly, and the changes of Beclin1 and Atg5 were the most severe. This study successfully established a TP‐induced zebrafish hepatotoxicity model and applied the HCIS technique in a zebrafish hepatotoxicity study. The result indicated Fas might be the main target of TP‐induced hepatotoxicity. Autophagy played a more important role than apoptosis and was characterized by the overexpression of Beclin1 and Atg5.
Enhancing an HIV index case testing passive referral model through a behavioural skills‐building training for healthcare providers: a pre‐/post‐assessment in Mangochi District, Malawi
Authors: Tembo Tapiwa A , Kim Maria H , Simon Katherine R , Ahmed Saeed , Beyene Teferi , Wetzel Elizabeth , Machika Mphatso , Chikoti Chrissy , Kammera Willy , Chibowa Henry , Nkhono Zinaumaleka , Kavuta Elijah , Kazembe Peter N , Rosenberg Nora E
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Although knowledge of HIV positivity is a necessary step towards engagement in HIV care, more than one quarter of HIV‐positive Malawians remain unaware of their HIV status. Testing the sexual partners, guardians and children of HIV‐positive persons (index case finding or ICF) is a promising way of identifying HIV‐positive persons unaware of their HIV status. ICF can be passive where the HIV‐positive individual (index) invites a partner (or contact) for HIV testing or active where a health provider assists the index with partner notification and offers HIV testing to the partner. Strategies to improve passive ICF have not been thoroughly studied. We describe the impact of a behavioural skills‐building training to enhance healthcare workers’ (HCWs) implementation of Malawi's passive ICF programme.

Methods

In June 2017, HCWs from 36 health facilities in Mangochi were oriented to Malawi's ICF programme and began implementation. In February and April 2018, a total of 573 HCWs from these facilities received further training from the Tingathe Programme. The training focused on eliciting more untested sexual contacts from indexes and better equipping indexes on issuing “family referral slips” to contacts. Monthly programmatic data were abstracted from clinical registers from October 2017 to July 2018. Monthly programmatic indicators were collected from the Index Case Testing Register and the HIV Counselling and Testing Register and were entered into a data set with one record per facility per month. T‐tests were used to compare the means of these indicators.

Results

During the ten‐month study period, there were 200 facility‐months observed before and 124 facility‐months observed after training. The mean number of indexes identified per facility‐month remained stable after training (pre = 18.9, post = 21.2, p = 0.74), but the mean number of sexual partners listed per facility‐month (pre = 6.3, post = 10.6, p < 0.001) increased. The mean number of contacts who received HIV testing (pre = 11.1, post = 24.8, p < 0.001) and the mean number of HIV‐positive contacts identified per facility‐month (pre = 1.3, post = 2.3, p < 0.001) also increased.

Conclusions

A brief behavioural skills‐building training impacted a range of meaningful outcomes, including identification of HIV‐positive individuals in a passive ICF programme. Such approaches could facilitate the identification of HIV‐positive persons unaware of their HIV status, a necessary step for engagement in HIV care.