bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validade de constructo e confiabilidade de um questionário para análise da satisfação profissional para professores da Educação Básica
Authors: Almeida Aline Lima da Rocha , Bridi Diego André , Mazzurana Elis Regina , Dummel Inês Maria Gugel , Foppa Talize , Rocha Ricelli Endrigo Ruppel da , Prigol Edna Liz , Baade Joel Haroldo , Silva Madalena Pereira da , Zwierewicz Marlene
Published: December 2024

A ação docente tem papel fundamental na vida dos estudantes, por isso, é importante que o professor esteja satisfeito com sua profissão e as condições de trabalho que lhe são oferecidas. Neste sentido, é necessário criar instrumentos que possam avaliar com segurança, validade e confiabilidade o nível de satisfação profissional dos professores. Este artigo tem como objetivo validar um questionário desenvolvido para mensurar a satisfação profissional para professores da educação básica, por meio da avaliação da sua consistência interna para que o mesmo possa ser reprodutível com segurança em futuras pesquisas e intervenções no campo educacional. O presente trabalho foi desenvolvido a partir das aulas da disciplina de Pesquisa e Produtos Educacionais do Doutorado em Educação Básica do Programa de Pós-graduação em Educação Básica (PPGEB) da Universidade Alto Vale do Rio do Peixe (Uniarp). Os resultados destacam a importância da consistência interna e da validade de conteúdo para garantir a qualidade e a aplicabilidade dos instrumentos de pesquisa.
Impactos de fatores socieconômicos na adoção da ciclomobilidade: um estudo comparativo em cinco capitais brasileiras
Authors: Souza Izolina Margarida de , Reis João Gilberto Mendes dos , Machado Sivanilza Teixeira , Formigoni Alexandre , Colalto Junior Edson Company , Queiroz Lucas Santos de
Published: December 2024

A ciclomobilidade nas cidades tem sido vista como uma alternativa sustentável de transporte e de baixo custo. No entanto, está diretamente relacionada a existência e qualidade da infraestrutura disponível para deslocamento seguro. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar a infraestrutura e os pontos de serviços existentes em cinco capitais brasileiras e verificar se existe correlação entre o tipo e quantidade dessas infraestruturas com fatores socioeconômicos das cidades em estudo. Para atender o objetivo, adotou-se um estudo de caso múltiplo utilizando de imagem geoespacial e a correlação de Person para investigar o relacionamento entre as variáveis quantitativas utilizadas. Os resultados indicam uma concentração da infraestrutura e dos pontos de serviço na maioria das cidades e que há uma forte correlação entre quantidade de infraestrutura e área urbanizada (0,90). Além disso, o tamanho da população é a variável com maior influência sobre o tamanho da infraestrutura (0,80), número de bicicletas compartilhadas (0,80) e número de bicicletários (0,90). O estudo permite concluir que é necessário investir, manter e conectar as infraestruturas cicloviárias ao longo das cidades para aumentar a adoção da ciclomobilidade e que essas ações estão diretamente ligadas a organização popular para fazer municípios cumprirem com as obrigações estabelecidas pela Política Nacional de Mobilidade Urbana.
Acute Intestinal Obstruction due to Complicated Meckel’s Diverticulum in an Adult: A Case Report
Authors: Negi Arundhati , Crasta Geofia Shaina , Bhat Bharath Kumar
Published: December 2024

Meckel’s Diverticulum (MD) occurs in about 2% of the population. Symptomatic MD after the age of 50 years is extremely rare. Hereby, the authors present a case of MD in a 54-year-old female with no previous surgeries, who presented with features suggestive of intestinal obstruction. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed that the cause of the obstruction was an inflamed MD with a band extending to the inferior aspect of the liver. A laparoscopic release of the band was performed, along with resection of the diverticular segment and the inflamed segment of the ileum, followed by end-to-end anastomosis. The patient recovered well with no postoperative complications. MD causing intestinal obstruction in a middle-aged population is extremely rare and requires careful attention for diagnosis; it is almost always discovered through surgery.
The Role of Consumer Empowerment and Its Comparison in Financial Inclusion in the Global South
Authors: Gould Bonokai George B.
Published: December 2024

This research examines the role of consumer empowerment in advancing financial inclusion across the Global South, focusing on Africa, Latin America, and Asia. The study aims to understand how empowering consumers through economic literacy, protection, and equitable access facilitates meaningful participation in formal financial systems. It employs a qualitative analysis of case studies from Kenya, Bangladesh, Brazil, South Africa, Liberia and India, combined with a review of relevant policy frameworks and innovations in digital financial services.
Findings reveal that consumer empowerment significantly enhances financial inclusion by building trust, fostering financial capability, and enabling access to tailored products. Case studies highlight the transformative impact of mobile platforms like M-Pesa and bKash, Liberia linking the informal financial sector to the formal financial sector pilot project and regulatory measures such as Brazil’s consumer protection laws and India’s responsible lending guidelines. However, barriers such as limited infrastructure, regulatory gaps, and socio-cultural norms continue to impede progress.
The study concludes that bridging these gaps requires collaborative efforts to strengthen consumer protection, expand literacy programs, and leverage technology for equitable financial access. By addressing these challenges, stakeholders can create inclusive and resilient financial ecosystems that drive sustainable economic growth in the Global South.
Residual Effect of Organics and Humic Acid on Physical, Chemical and Biological Property of Soil after Harvest of Succeeding Chickpea
Authors: Chauhan Ankitkumar , Patel N. I. , Jat J. R. , Patel Janki A.
Published: December 2024

A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Instructional Farm, Department of Agronomy, C. P. College of Agriculture, SDAU, Sardarkrushinagar to study the effect of organics and humic acid on kharif pearlmillet and their residual effect on succeeding chickpea during kharif- 2022 to 2023 and rabi 2022-23 to 2023-24. The soil of the experimental plot was loamy sand in texture, alkaline in reaction, normal in salinity, low in organic carbon, available N, medium in available P2O5 and K2O and low DTPA- extractable Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu. The treatments were applied in kharif pearlmillet crop and their residual effect was studied in succeeding chickpea crop. Residual effect of FYM @ 10 t ha-1 recorded significantly increased OC (0.298, 0.302 and 0.300 per cent), available N (177.28, 180.10 and 178.69 kg ha-1), P2O5 (41.20, 42.04 and41.62 kg ha-1) was observed during both the year and pooled result and total bacterial count (156.26 cfu g soil-1) in pooled result soil with the application of FYM @ 10 t ha-1. While application of humic acid did not get significant result and but numerically increased above mention parameter under the soil application of humic acid 30 kg ha-1.
Integration of ICT in Agricultural Extension Services: A Review
Authors: Khatri Aastha , Lallawmkimi Michelle C. , Rana Pratima , Panigrahi Chandan Kumar , Minj Akanksha , Koushal Sanjay , Ali Mohammed Umar
Published: December 2024

The integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) into agricultural extension services is transforming the way knowledge and resources are disseminated to farmers, addressing longstanding challenges of reach, efficiency, and inclusivity. Traditional extension systems, constrained by limited resources, outdated methodologies, and poor scalability, often fail to meet the dynamic and diverse needs of modern agriculture. ICT tools, such as mobile phones, internet platforms, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), drones, and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain, have revolutionized extension services by providing real-time, location-specific, and cost-effective solutions. This review synthesizes evidence on the role of ICT in enhancing agricultural extension systems, highlighting case studies such as India’s mKisan platform, Africa’s e-Agriculture initiatives, and the global Digital Green project. These examples demonstrate significant improvements in farmer access to timely information on weather, pests, markets, and best practices, leading to increased productivity and resilience.Despite these successes, several barriers impede the widespread adoption of ICT in agricultural extension. A pronounced digital divide, characterized by limited access to smartphones, internet connectivity, and electricity in rural areas, particularly in developing countries, restricts the reach of these innovations. Gender and socioeconomic disparities exacerbate these challenges, with women and marginalized groups often excluded from ICT-enabled benefits. Gaps in digital literacy among farmers and extension workers, inadequate infrastructure, and weak policy support hinder the scalability and sustainability of ICT interventions. Addressing these barriers requires strategic investments in rural connectivity, affordable technology, and capacity-building programs. Policies promoting public-private partnerships, funding for ICT-based innovations, and farmer-centric participatory approaches are critical for long-term success. ICT in agricultural extension include leveraging AI and machine learning for predictive analytics, expanding blockchain use for supply chain transparency, and adopting augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for immersive farmer training. The integration of ICT into climate-smart agricultural practices and fostering global collaborations for technology transfer will be pivotal. By addressing challenges and seizing emerging opportunities, ICT can enable equitable, efficient, and sustainable agricultural development, ensuring food security in a rapidly changing world.
Population responses of roe deer to the recolonization of the French Vercors by wolves
Authors: Randon Malory , Bonenfant Christophe , Michallet Jacques , Chevrier Thierry , Toïgo Carole , Gaillard Jean‐Michel , Valeix Marion
Published: February 2020

In a context of changing carnivore populations worldwide, it is crucial to understand the consequences of these changes for prey populations. The recolonization by wolves of the French Vercors mountain range and the long‐term monitoring (2001–2017) of roe deer in this area provided a unique opportunity to assess the effects of wolves on this prey. Roe deer was the main prey of wolves in the west Vercors mountain range during this recolonization. We compared roe deer abundance and fawn body mass in two contrasted areas of a wolf pack territory: a central area (core of the territory characterized by an intense use by wolves) and a peripheral area (used more occasionally). Roe deer population growth rates were lower in the central area between 2001 and 2006, resulting in a decline in roe deer abundance. Roe deer abundance substantially dropped in the two study areas after an extremely severe winter but the abundance of roe deer in the central area facing with wolves was slower to recover and remained at lower abundance levels for 6 years. Fawn body mass was consistently lower in the central area, varied similarly as roe deer abundance, and was not influenced by weather conditions or red deer population abundance. Altogether, the effects of wolves on roe deer in the central area occurred during a 10‐year period following the establishment of wolves, through the interplay between wolf predation (before wolves started preying on red deer), harsh winter conditions and possibly naivety of prey to this recolonizing predator.
Material, Immunological, and Practical Perspectives on Eye Drop Formulation
Authors: Bennett Naomi H. , Chinnery Holly R. , Downie Laura E. , Hill Lisa J. , Grover Liam M.
Published: February 2020

Eye drops are the most common and inexpensive approach to topical ocular drug delivery. Eye drops offer a noninvasive treatment strategy; however, this can be detrimental to therapeutic efficacy when compared to invasive methods such as surgeries, implants, and injections. Improvements to the efficacy of the topical delivery of drugs to ocular tissues are currently being explored and much of this work centers on adjusting the formulation of the eye drops and prolonging the bioavailability of the therapeutic agent. This is often in preference to improving other patient‐focused or clinical factors. In this progress report, conventional, commercially available polymer eye drops are explored and the ability for current and future innovations to maintain the existing benefits of eye drops to the patient is assessed. The final materials and form of the drops (liquid, gel, or other) and the immunological implications for the user are explored. There is currently no consensus for how to most effectively improve the ocular retention and drug delivery capabilities of eye drops, but key issues are highlighted in the context of current methods under development, and potential questions and considerations for future innovations are raised.
The Cathode Choice for Commercialization of Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Layered Transition Metal Oxides versus Prussian Blue Analogs
Authors: Liu Qiannan , Hu Zhe , Chen Mingzhe , Zou Chao , Jin Huile , Wang Shun , Chou Shu‐Lei , Liu Yong , Dou Shi‐Xue
Published: February 2020

With the unprecedentedly increasing demand for renewable and clean energy sources, the sodium‐ion battery (SIB) is emerging as an alternative or complementary energy storage candidate to the present commercial lithium‐ion battery due to the abundance and low cost of sodium resources. Layered transition metal oxides and Prussian blue analogs are reviewed in terms of their commercial potential as cathode materials for SIBs. The recent progress in research on their half cells and full cells for the ultimate application in SIBs are summarized. In addition, their electrochemical performance, suitability for scaling up, cost, and environmental concerns are compared in detail with a brief outlook on future prospects. It is anticipated that this review will inspire further development of layered transition metal oxides and Prussian blue analogs for SIBs, especially for their emerging commercialization.
Asymmetric Air Cathode Design for Enhanced Interfacial Electrocatalytic Reactions in High‐Performance Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Yu Jia , Li Bo‐Quan , Zhao Chang‐Xin , Liu Jia‐Ning , Zhang Qiang
Published: February 2020

The rechargeable zinc–air battery (ZAB) is a promising energy storage technology owing to its high energy density and safe aqueous electrolyte, but there is a significant performance bottleneck. Generally, cathode reactions only occur at multiphase interfaces, where the electrocatalytic active sites can participate in redox reactions effectively. In the conventional air cathode, the 2D multiphase interface on the surface of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) inevitably results in an insufficient amount of active sites and poor interfacial contact, leading to sluggish reaction kinetics. To address this problem, a 3D multiphase interface strategy is proposed to extend the reactive interface into the interior of the GDL. Based on this concept, an asymmetric air cathode is designed to increase the accessible active sites, accelerate mass transfer, and generate a dynamically stabilized reactive interface. With a NiFe layered‐double‐hydroxide electrocatalyst, ZABs based on the asymmetric cathode deliver a small charge/discharge voltage gap (0.81 V at 5.0 mA cm−2), a high power density, and a stable cyclability (over 2000 cycles). This 3D reactive interface strategy provides a feasible method for enhancing the air cathode kinetics and further enlightens electrode designs for energy devices involving multiphase electrochemical reactions.
Asymmetric Surface Engineering for Janus Membranes
Authors: Li Hao‐Nan , Yang Jing , Xu Zhi‐Kang
Published: February 2020

Janus membranes show great promise toward various applications and are undergoing a fast‐paced development in materials science. The asymmetric surface engineering on surface wettability, layer thickness, and pore structure enables Janus membranes with superiority in mass transport over conventional membranes. This review aims to provide an overview on the role of asymmetric surface engineering in membrane fabrication, structure control, and property tuning. The relationship between asymmetric surface engineering and performance optimization of Janus membranes is then elucidated based on an understanding of the underlying mass transport mechanism for target applications. Finally, current challenges in this field are highlighted, hopefully inspiring more researches to address the controllability and tunability of surface engineering for Janus membranes in future.
Nanocellulose‐Enabled Membranes for Water Purification: Perspectives
Authors: Sharma Priyanka R. , Sharma Sunil K. , Lindström Tom , Hsiao Benjamin S.
Published: February 2020

Membrane technology remains the most energy‐efficient process for removing contaminants (micrometer‐size particles to angstrom‐size hydrated ions) from water. However, the current membrane technology, involving relatively expensive synthetic materials, is often nonsustainable for the poorest communities in the society. In this article, perspectives are provided on the emerging nanocellulose‐enabled membrane technology based on nanoscale cellulose fibers that can be extracted from almost any biomass. It is conceivable that nanocellulose membranes developed from inexpensive, abundant, and sustainable resources (such as agriculture residues and underutilized biomass waste) can lower the cost of membrane separation, as these membranes offer the ability to remove a range of pollutants in one step, via size exclusion and/or adsorption. The nanocellulose‐enabled membrane technology not only may be suitable for tackling global drinking water challenges, but it can also provide a new low‐cost platform for various pressure‐driven filtration techniques, such as microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis. Some relevant parameters that can control the filtration performance of nanocellulose‐enabled membranes are comprehensively discussed. A short review of the current state of development for nanocellulose membranes is also provided.
Fine Synthesis of Longitudinal/Horizontal‐Growth Organic Heterostructures for the Optical Logic Gates
Authors: Tao Yi‐Chen , Wang Xue‐Dong , Li Zhi‐Zhou , Zhuo Ming‐Peng , Yu Yue , Yan Chang‐Cun , Xie Wan‐Feng , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: February 2020

Organic micro/nanocrystals have been intensively studied and great progress has been achieved in both the modulation of optical/electronical property and the controllable synthesis of single component of low‐dimensional materials. In particular, organic heterostructures (OHSs) are one of the key factors for the multifunctional optoelectronic devices to construct integrated circuits. However, the fine synthesis of OHSs remains a challenge due to the easy occurrence of homogeneous nucleation raised by the weak intermolecular interaction. A facile solution “bottom‐up” fabrication approach is demonstrated for the longitudinal‐ and horizontal‐growth OHSs through building up blocks of MPY (1,4‐phenylene‐bis(3‐(2‐methoxylpyridin‐6‐yl)acrylonitrile)) nanowires and polymorphic TBPe (2,5,8,11‐tetra‐tert‐butylperylene) microcrystals by controlling the evaporation rate of solvents. The growth directions of longitudinal and horizontal OHSs are demonstrated to be driven by the face‐selective principle and the lowest energy principle, respectively. The directional controllable fabrication method provides a novel strategy for the fine synthesis of OHSs. In addition, three models of optical logic gates “100,” “110,” and “111” based on these as‐prepared OHSs with multiple outputs are constructed, which are the potential candidates for the multifunctional integrated optoelectronics.
Postembolization fever after transarterial chemoembolization is a sign of unfavorable therapeutic response in hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Peng Chien‐Wei , Teng Wei , Hsieh Yi‐Chung , Jeng Wen‐Juei , Huang Chien‐Hao , Lui Kar‐Wai , Hung Chen‐Fu , Chen Yi‐Cheng , Lin Chen‐Chun , Lin Chun‐Yen , Lin Shi‐Ming , Sheen I‐Shyan
Published: February 2020

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the standard of care for intermediate‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. The postembolization fever (PEF) is observed in 20% to 73% patients. This study aims to investigate the predictive factors of PEF and its impact on therapeutic response. From 2010 to 2015, a total of 525 HCC treatment naïve patients treated by TACE were recruited. Age, gender, etiologies of HCC, cirrhosis, tumor status, and pretherapy liver biochemistry were compared between patients with and without PEF. Predictors of PEF, complete response (CR), and progressive disease were analyzed by logistic regression. The PEF was observed in 185 patients (35.2%). The beyond up‐to‐seven, AST >2X upper limit of normal (ULN) and ALBI grade ≧2 were the independent predictors of PEF. Patients with PEF were less likely to achieve CR (18.4% vs 32.1%, P = .0017). Patients whose tumor burden beyond “up‐to‐seven” criteria with presence of tumor fever are least likely to achieve CR (aOR: 0.08, P = .022) and had higher risk for disease progression (aOR: 2.13, P = .082). PEF is related to heavier tumor burden and poorer liver reserve function. The presence of PEF is an unfavorable phenomenon correlating with poorer treatment response.
Early total gastrectomy in emphysematous gastritis
Authors: Liao Chih‐Szu , Tu Chi‐Wen , Chiang Ching‐Chung , Shieh Min‐Chieh
Published: February 2020

Emphysematous gastritis is a rare form of lethal infection caused by gas‐forming organisms arising from local spread through the gastric mucosa or hematogenous dissemination from a distal focus. It is the counterpart of ischemic bowel disease happening in the stomach. No definitive mode of treatment has been advocated despite its high mortality. Thus far, only 41 cases have been reported in the literature since Dr. Frankel first reported it in 1889. To further understand the disease, we present a case of emphysematous gastritis in a 74‐year‐old female uremic patient, further afflicted with diabetes mellitus, chronic decubitus ulcers, and peripheral occlusive arterial disease, manifesting with fever and sudden loss of consciousness without physical signs of peritonitis. She was diagnosed via computed tomography scan, which showed pneumatosis around the stomach wall, pneumoporta, and pneumoperitoneum. She underwent total gastrectomy within 24 hours, revealing edematous gastric wall and hemorrhagic necroses over the fundus and antrum. Postoperatively, she gradually improved with respirator support, total parenteral nutrition, and broad‐spectrum antibiotics, and she was discharged after 33 days of hospitalization without anastomotic leaks. Further follow‐up revealed that she survived for one and a half years following her surgery without developing a new intra‐abdominal incident, albeit with frequent hospitalizations due to her continuing chronic medical problems. Early aggressive total gastrectomy may be tried to reverse the morbid course of the disease.
The clinical and endoscopic features of esophageal ectopic sebaceous glands
Authors: Chen Hui‐Fen , Lee Hsi‐Chang , Liao Min‐Kai , Chang Ting‐An , Lin Chih‐Lin , Liao Li‐Ying , Chen Kuan‐Yang
Published: February 2020

Esophageal ectopic sebaceous gland (EESG) is a rare disease with a lower rate of detection because of no clinical symptoms and benign endoscopic presentation. Owing to the rarity of EESG, the clinical features and endoscopic characteristics were only described in case reports. The aims of this study are to determine the detection rate of EESG in daily clinical practice and identify the clinical and endoscopic features of EESG in the general population in Taiwan. We enrolled 13 patients with EESG which were histologically confirmed via endoscopic biopsies through 108 875 conventional esophagogastroduodenoscopies performed in Taipei City Hospital Ren‐Ai branch (TCH‐RA) from January 2007 to June 2018. The data were collected retrospectively from the medical records. The detection rate of EESG in TCH‐RA from 2007 to June 2018 was 0.0119%. The detection rate was elevated to 0.0205% in the last 2.5 years since this study was planned to start. Clinically, the majority of cases with EESG in TCH‐RA were incidentally found during the endoscopic examination. Gastrointestinal symptoms lead these patients for endoscopy were caused by other diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux disease or peptic ulcers. The middle‐aged population appeared to have a higher incidence of EESG without obvious gender difference in our study. The endoscopic findings of EESG showed multiple or single, whitish or yellowish, vary in size, patches, or plagues, most commonly situated in the middle third esophagus. The presentations of clinical and endoscopic findings of EESG in our study are identical to the results of the data from 52 cases with EESG in 25 published articles, except the gender trend. No noticeable gender difference was found in cases with EESG in TCH‐RA but the male‐major tendency of EESG was presented in the published group. The follow‐up endoscopy found no malignancy change but fluctuations in the location and numbers. In conclusion, our cases with EESG in Taiwan own almost the same clinical and endoscopic characteristics as the previous literature, except gender tendency. Although no significant difference in clinical features of EESG in Taiwan, this study revealed the prevalence might be elevated by simply increasing the endoscopists' awareness of EESG.
Real‐world efficacy and safety of vedolizumab among patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A single tertiary medical center experience in Central Taiwan
Authors: Chiu Yu‐Chiao , Chen Chia‐Chang , Ko Chung‐Wang , Liao Szu‐Chia , Yeh Hong‐Zen , Chang Chung‐Hsin
Published: February 2020

The incidence of IBD is increasing in Eastern countries. The anti‐TNF‐α biological agents are available in patients with severely active IBD. Recently, the vedolizumab was approved by Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA). The efficacy and safety of vedolizumab in real‐world practice for Asia regions is uncertain. Our primary endpoint is to evaluate the efficacy of vedolizumab for TNF‐α exposure and naive patients during induction phase. The secondary endpoints are adverse events, infection, and emergent surgery during induction. We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study from November 2017 to April 2019 in our hospital. We enrolled patients receiving vedolizumab with or without previous anti‐TNF‐α agent exposure. The study results of continuous and categorical variables are presented as median (interquartile range [IQR]), with the IQR presented as 25th percentile to 75th percentile, and number (percentage), respectively. Categorical variables were compared with Fisher's exact test or Pearson's chi‐square test, and continuous variables were compared with a Mann‐Whitney U test. Twenty‐four patients received vedolizumab from November 2017 to April 2019. Sixteen patients had finished the postinduction phase of the clinical evaluation. None of the patients discontinued vedolizumab due to an adverse drug reaction. The study group all fulfilled the criteria for clinical response and two of them achieved clinical remission. 50% of the patients could successfully discontinue systemic and topical steroid treatment. Three patients from CD group had endoscopic remission. Compare CD to UC patients, the efficacy of vedolizumab is comparable to both groups, but endoscopic response is slightly better in CD group. One patient developed systemic infection (urinary tract infection). None of tuberculosis complex infection or hepatitis B flare up observed during follow‐up period. In this study, we offer our real‐world experience of vedolizumab and suggest that the use of vedolizumanb is safe and effective. Moreover, 50% of steroid‐dependent patients can discontinue steroid after vedolizumab induction. This can be addressed in the future study.
Biopolymer Skeleton Produced by Rhizobium radiobacter: Stoichiometric Alternation of Glycosidic and Amidic Bonds in the Lipopolysaccharide O‐Antigen
Authors: Speciale Immacolata , Di Lorenzo Flaviana , Gargiulo Valentina , Erbs Gitte , Newman Mari‐Anne , Molinaro Antonio , De Castro Cristina
Published: February 2020

The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) O‐antigen structure of the plant pathogen Rhizobium radiobacter strain TT9 and its possible role in a plant‐microbe interaction was investigated. The analyses disclosed the presence of two O‐antigens, named Poly1 and Poly2. The repetitive unit of Poly2 constitutes a 4‐α‐l‐rhamnose linked to a 3‐α‐d‐fucose residue. Surprisingly, Poly1 turned out to be a novel type of biopolymer in which the repeating unit is formed by a monosaccharide and an amino‐acid derivative, so that the polymer has alternating glycosidic and amidic bonds joining the two units: 4‐amino‐4‐deoxy‐3‐O‐methyl‐d‐fucose and (2′R,3′R,4′S)‐N‐methyl‐3′,4′‐dihydroxy‐3′‐methyl‐5′‐oxoproline). Differently from the O‐antigens of LPSs from other pathogenic Gram‐negative bacteria, these two O‐antigens do not activate the oxidative burst, an early innate immune response in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, explaining at least in part the ability of this R. radiobacter strain to avoid host defenses during a plant infection process.
Co‐syndiospecific Alternating Copolymerization of Functionalized Propylenes and Styrene by Rare‐Earth Catalysts
Authors: Wang Haobing , Wu Xia , Yang Yang , Nishiura Masayoshi , Hou Zhaomin
Published: February 2020

The precise control of monomer sequence and stereochemistry in copolymerization is of much interest and importance for the synthesis of functional polymers, but studies toward this goal have met with only limited success to date. Now, the co‐syndiospecific alternating copolymerization of methoxyphenyl‐ and N,N‐dimethylaminophenyl‐functionalized propylenes with styrene by half‐sandwich rare‐earth catalysts is reported. This reaction efficiently afforded the corresponding functionalized propylene‐alt‐styrene copolymers with a perfect alternating sequence and excellent co‐syndiotacticity (rrrr >99 %), thus constituting the first example of co‐stereospecific alternating copolymerization of polar and non‐polar olefins.
A Water‐Stable Ionic MOF for the Selective Capture of Toxic Oxoanions of SeVI and AsV and Crystallographic Insight into the Ion‐Exchange Mechanism
Authors: Sharma Shivani , Desai Aamod V. , Joarder Biplab , Ghosh Sujit K.
Published: February 2020

Selectively capturing toxic oxoanions of selenium and arsenic is highly desired for the remediation of hazardous waste. Ionic metal–organic frameworks (iMOFs) especially cationic MOFs (iMOF‐C) as ion‐exchange materials, featuring aqueous phase stability, present a robust pathway for sequestration of the oxoanions owing to their ability to prevent leaching because of their ionic nature. On account of scarcity of water‐stable cationic MOFs, the capture of oxoanions of selenium and arsenic has been a major challenge and has not been investigated using iMOFs. Herein, we demonstrate large scale synthesis of cationic MOF, viz. iMOF‐1C that exhibits selective capture of oxoanions of SeVI (SeO42−) and AsV (HAsO42−) in water with a maximum sorption capacity of 100 and 85 mg g−1, respectively. This represents among the highest uptake capacities observed for selenate oxoanion in MOFs. Further, the ion‐exchange mechanism was directly unveiled by single crystal analysis, which revealed variable modes of host–guest binding.
Pseudo‐Stereodivergent Synthesis of Enantioenriched Tetrasubstituted Alkenes by Cascade 1,3‐Oxo‐Allylation/Cope Rearrangement
Authors: Chen Peng , Li Yue , Chen Zhi‐Chao , Du Wei , Chen Ying‐Chun
Published: February 2020

The catalytic diastereodivergent construction of stereoisomers having two or more stereogenic centers has been extensively studied. In contrast, the switchable introduction of another stereogenic element, that is,Z/Econfiguration involving a polysubstituted alkene group, into the optically active stereoisomers, has not been recognized yet. Disclosed here is the pseudo‐stereodivergent synthesis of highly enantioenriched tetrasubstituted alkene architectures from isatin‐based Morita–Baylis–Hillman carbonates and allylic derivatives, under the cooperative catalysis of a tertiary amine and a chiral iridium complex. The success of the switchable construction of the tetrasubstituted alkene motif relies on the diastereodivergent 1,3‐oxo‐allylation reaction between N‐allylic ylides and chiral π‐allyliridium complex intermediates by ligand and substrate control, followed by the stereoselective concerted 3,3‐Cope rearrangement process.
Transcriptomic analysis at the first instar larval stage of nonmolting Bombyx mori mutant (a42)
Authors: Sun Xia , Zhang Kaixiang , Qin Sheng , Zhang Guozheng , Li Muwang
Published: February 2020

The life cycle of the holometabolous insect Bombyx mori (Linnaeus) consists of the embryo, larva, pupa, and adult stages with six larval molts. Ecdysone and juvenile hormones play important roles in the growth and development of the silkworms. The a42 silkworm mutant is recessive and homozygous lethal by exhibiting a dark‐colored and small body size and fails to molt to second instar. We compared the gene expression of a42 mutants with normal individuals at the first larval molting stage to elucidate the physiological influence of the a42 mutation on the growth and development of silkworms. The transcriptomic sequencing results revealed that 1,411 genes are differentially expressed in a42 mutants, compared with wild‐type control silkworms, in which 791 genes are upregulated and 620 genes are downregulated. Gene Ontology/Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) assigned to biological pathways, such as pentose and glucoronate interconversions, glycerolipid metabolism, folate biosynthesis, amino sugar, and nucleotide sugar metabolism. Two hydroxylases of phenylalanine hydroxylase (BmPAH) and tyrosine hydroxylase (BmTh) are upregulated in a42 mutants. The influence of a42 mutation on these DEGs reveals that melanin metabolism plays an important role during the molting process in silkworms.
Novel pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidine derivatives inhibit human cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis by ROS generation
Authors: Gaonkar Supreet , Savanur Mohammed Azharuddin , Nadaf AfraQuasar A. , Najare Mahesh S. , Mantur Shivaraj , Garbhagudi Manjunatha , Mulla Sikandar I. , Khazi Imtiyaz Ahmed M.
Published: February 2020

The paucity of effective anticancer drugs for successful treatment is a major concern, indicating the strong need for novel therapeutic compounds. In the quest of new molecules, the present study aimed to explore the potential of pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidine derivatives as antiproliferative agents. In vitro anticancer screening of selected compounds was done by the National Cancer Institute's Developmental Therapeutics Programme against a panel of 60 cancer cell lines. The lead compound PP‐31d considerably inhibited the growth of cancer cells, such as NCI‐H460 (non‐small‐cell lung cancer), OVCAR‐4 (ovarian cancer), 786‐0 (renal cancer), A549 (non‐small‐cell lung cancer), and ACHN (renal cancer), showing strong anticancer potential, among other derivatives. Kinetic studies of PP‐31d on NCI‐H460 cells revealed a dose‐dependent effect with an IC50 of 2 µM. The observed inhibition by PP‐31d is attributed to the generation of reactive oxygen species and the subsequent induction of cellular apoptosis, as evidenced by the increase in the hypodiploid (subG1) population, the early apoptotic cell population, and caspase‐3/7 activity, the loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential, and the degradation of nuclear DNA. Collectively, our results demonstrated that pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidine derivatives inhibit cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and, thus, have the potential to be further explored for anticancer properties.
Reduced White Matter Integrity and Deficits in Neuropsychological Functioning in Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Haigh Sarah M. , Keller Timothy A. , Minshew Nancy J. , Eack Shaun M.
Published: February 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is currently viewed as a disorder of cortical systems connectivity, with a heavy emphasis being on the structural integrity of white matter tracts. However, the majority of the literature to date has focused on children with ASD. Understanding the integrity of white matter tracts in adults may help reveal the nature of ASD pathology in adulthood and the potential contributors to cognitive impairment. This study examined white matter water diffusion using diffusion tensor imaging in relation to neuropsychological measures of cognition in a sample of 45 adults with ASD compared to 20 age, gender, and full‐scale‐IQ‐matched healthy volunteers. Tract‐based spatial statistics were used to assess differences in diffusion along white matter tracts between groups using permutation testing. The following neuropsychological measures of cognition were assessed: processing speed, attention vigilance, working memory, verbal learning, visual learning, reasoning and problem solving, and social cognition. Results indicated that fractional anisotropy (FA) was significantly reduced in adults with ASD in the anterior thalamic radiation (P = 0.022) and the right cingulum (P = 0.008). All neuropsychological measures were worse in the ASD group, but none of the measures significantly correlated with reduced FA in either tract in the adults with ASD or in the healthy volunteers. Together, this indicates that the tracts that are the most impacted in autism may not be (at least directly) responsible for the behavioral deficits in ASD. Autism Res 2020, 13: 702–714. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

White matter tracts are the data cables in the brain that efficiently transfer information, and damage to these tracts could be the cause for the abnormal behaviors that are associated with autism. We found that two long‐range tracts (the anterior thalamic radiation and the cingulum) were both impaired in autism but were not directly related to the impairments in behavior. This suggests that the abnormal tracts and behavior are the effects of another underlying mechanism.
The Effects of Mobile Phone Radiofrequency Radiation on Cochlear Stria Marginal Cells in Sprague–Dawley Rats
Authors: Yang Honghong , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Zhihai , Zhong Shixun , Hu Guohua , Zuo Wenqi
Published: February 2020

To investigate the possible mechanisms for biological effects of 1,800 MHz mobile radiofrequency radiation (RFR), the radiation‐specific absorption rate was applied at 2 and 4 W/kg, and the exposure mode was 5 min on and 10 min off (conversation mode). Exposure time was 24 h short‐term exposure. Following exposure, to detect cell DNA damage, cell apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, the Comet assay test, flow cytometry, DAPI (4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole dihydrochloride) staining, and a fluorescent probe were used, respectively. Our experiments revealed that mobile phone RFR did not cause DNA damage in marginal cells, and the rate of cell apoptosis did not increase (P > 0.05). However, the production of ROS in the 4 W/kg exposure group was greater than that in the control group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, these results suggest that mobile phone energy was insufficient to cause cell DNA damage and cell apoptosis following short‐term exposure, but the cumulative effect of mobile phone radiation still requires further confirmation. Activation of the ROS system plays a significant role in the biological effects of RFR. Bioelectromagnetics. © 2020 The Authors. Bioelectromagnetics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Distinctive lung cancer incidence trends among men and women attributable to the period effect in Shanghai: An analysis spanning 42 years
Authors: Xie Li , Qian Ying , Liu Yishan , Li Yixuan , Jia Sinong , Yu Herbert , Wang Chunfang , Qian Biyun , Bao Pingping
Published: February 2020

Background

Many previous studies reported secular trend of lung cancer incidence and mortality, but little is known about the possible reasons for these trends.

Methods

Data were obtained from Shanghai Cancer Registry. Age‐standardized rates were calculated and average annual percent changes (AAPCs) were evaluated by Joinpoint regression. Age, period, and birth cohort effects were assessed by age‐period‐cohort models.

Results

From 1973 to 2010, compared with long‐time slowly increasing trend in women, male lung cancer incidence had significantly decreased between 2001 and 2009. After that lung cancer incidence rising sharply in women (AAPC = 14.13%, 95%CI: 2.68%‐26.86%, P = .016) and similar rising trends without statistical significance in men (AAPC = 2.96, 95%CI: −2.47%‐8.69%, P = .281) between 2010 and 2014. Age‐period cohort model showed the different patterns of period effects for lung cancer incidence between men and women. The period effects for lung cancer incidence showed rising effect for women, whereas there was decline effect for lung cancer incidence for men. On the other hand, the model showed a significant period effect in both genders with a similar fashion in mortality, yielding steady falling trends during the entire study period.

Conclusions

The distinctive patterns of lung cancer incidence between men and women may be attributable to significant period effects, which reflected the changes in public health policies or diagnostic practices and highlighted the urgent of continued monitoring of gender‐specific risk factors for lung cancer incidence.
Experimental study of the vascular normalization window for tumors treated with apatinib and the efficacy of sequential chemotherapy with apatinib in lung cancer‐bearing mice and patients
Authors: Liu Mingtao , Li Hui , Wang Xiuxiu , Jing Lijun , Jiang Peng , Li Yu
Published: February 2020

In the tumor vascular system, the vascular structure is disordered, the morphology is abnormal, and the structure of the blood vessel walls is incomplete, leading to leakage of the blood vessel wall, elevated interstitial fluid pressure, and elevated blood flow resistance. These alterations lead to local microenvironmental changes, which mainly manifest as a lack of oxygen and acidosis, further affecting the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs. Antiangiogenic drugs can normalize the abnormalities caused by tumor angiogenesis, thereby transferring oxygen and drugs to tumor cells more efficiently through normalized blood vessels and enhancing the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs. Apatinib is a specific VEGFR‐2 inhibitor that blocks the transmission of the VEGF/VEGFR‐2 signaling pathway. In this study, we constructed a nude mouse xenograft model of lung cancer and administered apatinib at different doses and times to detect the normalization of reactive blood vessels through VEGF, α‐SMA, college‐IV, HIF‐1α, and MMP. The ultrastructure of tumor blood vessels was observed by electron microscopy, and the dose and timing of apatinib‐induced normalization of lung cancer in nude mice were confirmed. Then, we observed the inhibitory effect of apatinib combined with pemetrexed on transplanted tumors of lung cancer cells in nude mice at different time points and observed whether combination pemetrexed chemotherapy showed more significant effects in the time window of vascular normalization induced by apatinib. The inhibition of the growth of transplanted tumors was examined. Then 20 patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer were enrolled, and apatinib sequential chemotherapy drugs were applied as a third‐line chemotherapy regimen to observe its clinical efficacy.
Treatment of Gingival Fenestration With a Double Pedicle Flap Approach and Dehydrated Amnion–Chorion Membrane: A Case Report
Authors: Bhide Vinay M. , Tenenbaum Howard C.
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Although gingival fenestrations (GFs) occur with relative infrequency, their actual incidence is thought to be much higher. Furthermore, if left untreated, these mucogingival defects can lead to unfavorable sequelae which can compromise the esthetics and stability of the teeth affected. Most GFs require surgical treatment for closure. Previously reported modalities of treatment include connective tissue grafting, acellular dermal matrix allograft, and pedicle flap approaches. This case demonstrates the first documented use of a dehydrated amnion‐chorion membrane (dHACM) to treat GF.

Case Presentation

A surgical approach involving a double pedicle flap and dHACM with 15 months follow‐up is described. Following gentle cleansing of the defect and careful split‐thickness elevation of a double pedicle flap, the area of exposure fenestration was covered with dHACM. The overlying flap was then closed carefully to completely cover the dHACM. The case presented shows a successful clinical outcome as characterized by successful closure of the fenestration defect with nice tissue maturation.

Conclusion

The technique described in this case report demonstrates that GFs can be successfully treated with a periodontal plastic surgical approach using dHACM with minimal patient discomfort.
Flowcharts for Easy Periodontal Diagnosis Based on the 2018 New Periodontal Classification
Authors: Sutthiboonyapan Pimchanok , Wang Hom‐Lay , Charatkulangkun Orawan
Published: February 2020

Focused Clinical Question

How can a clinician simply and quickly perform a periodontal screening and make a proper periodontal diagnosis using the 2018 proposed new periodontal classification?

The 2018 periodontal classification has been released, however, it is challenging for clinicians especially for the dental students to apply the published information in practice. A diagnostic flowchart was created for three of the most common periodontal conditions: health, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Additionally, flowcharts were proposed for the diagnosis of periodontitis severity and risk of progression by staging and grading. Probing depth was the first clinical parameter to categorize the type of diseases. Subsequently, bleeding on probing, radiographic bone loss/clinical attachment loss, and history of periodontal treatment were further added for making a proper diagnosis. Three clinical cases were given to demonstrate the use of the simplified proposed flowcharts.

Conclusions

The proposed diagnostic flowcharts are the user‐friendly tool to assist clinicians to perform an initial screening and diagnosis based on the 2018 newly proposed periodontal disease classification.
Facile Access to Dative, Single, and Double Silicon−Metal Bonds Through M−Cl Insertion Reactions of Base‐Stabilized SiII Cations
Authors: Frisch Philipp , Szilvási Tibor , Inoue Shigeyoshi
Published: February 2020

Silicon(II) cations can offer fascinating reactivity patterns due to their unique electronic structure: a lone pair of electrons, two empty p orbitals and a positive charge combined on a single silicon center. We now report the facile insertion of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐stabilized silyliumylidene ions into M−Cl bonds (M=Ru, Rh), forming a series of novel chlorosilylene transition‐metal complexes. Theoretical investigations revealed a reaction mechanism in which the insertion into the M−Cl bond with concomitant 1,2‐migration of a silicon‐bound NHC to the transition metal takes place after formation of an initial silyliumylidene transition‐metal complex. The mechanism could be verified experimentally through characterization of the intermediate complexes. Furthermore, the obtained chlorosilylene complexes can be conveniently utilized as synthons to access Si−M and Si=M bonding motifs bonds through reductive dehalogenation.