bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of increasing levels of rice distillers’ by-product on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profile and colonic microbiota of weaned piglets
Authors: Nguyen Cong Oanh , Taminiau Bernard , Pham Kim Dang , Daube Georges , Nguyen Van Giap , Bindelle Jérôme , Abdulaye Fall Papa , Vu Dinh Ton , Hornick Jean-Luc
Published: August 2019

Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of diets containing different wet rice distillers’ by-product (RDP) levels on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, blood profiles and gut microbiome of weaned piglets.Methods: A total of 48 weaned castrated male crossbred pigs, initial body weight 7.54±0.97 kg, and age about 4 wks, were used in this experiment. The piglets were randomly allocated into three iso-nitrogenous diet groups that were fed either a control diet, a diet with 15% RDP, or a diet with 30% RDP for a total of 35 days. Chromium oxide was used for apparent digestibility measurements. On d 14 and d 35, half of the piglets were randomly selected for hemato-biochemical and gut microbiota evaluations.Results: Increasing inclusion levels of RDP tended to linearly increase (p≤0.07) average daily gain on d 14 and d 35, and decreased (p = 0.08) feed conversion ratio on d 35. Empty stomach weight increased (p = 0.03) on d 35 while digestibility of diet components decreased. Serum globulin concentration decreased on d 14 (p = 0.003) and red blood cell count tended to decrease (p = 0.06) on d 35, parallel to increase RDP levels. Gene amplicon profiling of 16S rRNA revealed that the colonic microbiota composition of weaned pigs changed by inclusion of RDP over the period. On d 14, decreased proportions of Lachnospiraceae_ge, Ruminococcaceae_ge, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005, and Bacteroidales_ge, and increased proportions of Prevotellaceae_ge, Prevotella_2, and Prevotella_9 were found with inclusion of RDP, whereas opposite effect was found on d 35. Additionally, the proportion of Lachnospiraceae_ge, Ruminococcaceae_ge, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005, and Bacteroidales_ge in RDP diets decreased over periods in control diet but increased largely in diet with 30% RDP.Conclusion: These results indicate that RDP in a favorable way modulate gastrointestinal microbiota composition and improve piglet performance despite a negative impact on digestibility of lipids and gross energy.
Dietary rambutan peel powder as a rumen modifier in beef cattle
Authors: Ampapon Thiwakorn , Wanapat Metha
Published: August 2019

Objective: The experiment was conducted to study the effect of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) fruit peel powder (RP) on feed consumption, digestibility of nutrients, ruminal fermentation dynamics and microbial population in Thai breed cattle.Methods: Four, 2-year old (250±15 kg) beef bull crossbreds (75% Brahman×25% local breed) were allotted to experimental treatments using a 4×4 Latin square design. Four dietary supplementation treatments were imposed; non-supplementation (control, T1); supplementation of RP fed at 2% of dry matter intake (DMI) (low, T2); supplementation of RP fed at 4% of DMI (medium, T3) and supplementation of RP fed at 6% of DMI (high, T4). All cattle were given a concentrate supplement at 1% of body weight while Napier grass was provided as a free choice.Results: The findings revealed that RP supplementation did not negatively affect (p>0.05) DMI of Napier grass, while RP intake and total DMI were the greatest in the RP supplementation at 4% and 6% DMI. Nevertheless, the nutrients (dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber) digestibilities were not changed in the RP supplementation groups. Rumen fermentation parameters especially those of total volatile fatty acids, acetate and butyrate were not significantly changed. However, the propionate concentration was remarkably increased (p<0.05) in the RP supplementation. Notably, the ratio of acetate to propionate, the number of protozoa, as well as the methane estimation were significantly reduced in the RP supplemented groups (4% and 6% of DMI), while the counts of bacteria was not altered.Conclusion: Supplementation of RP (4% of DMI) improved rumen propionate production, reduced protozoal population and methane estimation (p<0.05) without a negative effect on feed consumption and nutrients total tract digestibilities in beef cattle. Using dietary rambutan fruit peel powder has potential promise as a rumen regulator.
In vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetic characterization of LMT-28 as a novel small molecular interleukin-6 inhibitor
Authors: Ahn Sung-Hoon , Heo Tae-Hwe , Jun Hyun-Sik , Choi Yongseok
Published: August 2019

Objective: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a T cell-derived B cell stimulating factor which plays an important role in inflammatory diseases. In this study, the pharmacokinetic properties of LMT-28 including physicochemical property, in vitro liver microsomal stability and an in vivo pharmacokinetic study using BALB/c mice were characterized.Methods: LMT-28 has been synthesized and is being developed as a novel therapeutic IL-6 inhibitor. The physicochemical properties and in vitro pharmacokinetic profiles such as liver microsomal stability and Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cell permeability assay were examined. For in vivo pharmacokinetic studies, pharmacokinetic parameters using BALB/c mice were calculated.Results: The logarithm of the partition coefficient value (LogP; 3.65) and the apparent permeability coefficient values (Papp; 9.7×10–6 cm/s) showed that LMT-28 possesses a moderate-high cell permeability property across MDCK cell monolayers. The plasma protein binding rate of LMT-28 was 92.4% and mostly bound to serum albumin. The metabolic half-life (t1/2) values of LMT-28 were 15.3 min for rat and 21.9 min for human at the concentration 1 μM. The area under the plasma drug concentration-time curve and Cmax after oral administration (5 mg/kg) of LMT-28 were 302±209 h∙ng/mL and 137±100 ng/mL, respectively.Conclusion: These data suggest that LMT-28 may have good physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties and may be a novel oral drug candidate as the first synthetic IL-6 inhibitor to ameliorate mammalian inflammation.
From Death Penalty to Thanatopolitics
Authors: Ahmed Sabeen ,   DePaul University
Published: August 2019

Drawing from the works of Carl Schmitt, Michel Foucault, Giorgio Agamben, and Jacques Derrida, this article offers a theory of political theology for the contemporary Western liberal nation-state. Taking as its starting point the death penalty, it presents a triune theory of governance—what I call Trinitarian Governmentality—which exposes the thanatopolitical dimension fundamental to the very articulation of sovereign power and, as such, the theologico-political. It is thus only by conceptualizing sovereignty as Trinitarian Governmentality—composed of biopower/oikonomia, disciplinary power/theologia, and pastoral power/eschatologia—that we can begin to address Derrida’s central question: how might we theorize a properly philosophical abolitionism for the present?
Phytoremediation of Petroleum Products Contaminated Soil
Authors: Akpokodje O. I. , Uguru H.
Published: August 2019

This study investigated the impact of petroleum products on the physiochemical properties, heavy metals and THC of soil samples; and their possible phytoremediation. Perforated plastic buckets were filled with 10 kg of sieved virgin topsoil. A mixture of 2 L of spent engine oil, 2 L of kerosene, 2 L of petrol and 2 L of diesel was gradually poured into each bucket and allowed to drain through the soil, once a day for five days, and there after left to stabilize for a period of 21 days. Fluted pumpkin (Telforia Occidentalis) and Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus, Cv. Kirikou) seeds were planted in buckets and closely monitored for 14 weeks. Soil analysis of the virgin topsoil, contaminated soil and remediated soil was done using standard methods. Tests results showed that the petroleum products significantly (p ≤0.05) altered the physicochemical properties, heavy metals and THC of the soil. From the results, the soil porosity decreased from 35% to 14%; specific gravity decreased from 2.34 to 1.35; the soil pH decreased from 7.05 to 5.34; the THC increased from 0,923 mg/kg to 964.35 mg/kg; copper level increased from 4.892 mg/kg to 7.729 mg/kg; the lead content increased from <0.0001 mg/kg to 1.128 mg/kg; while the iron content increased from 1251.2 mg/kg to 1587.9 mg/kg after the contamination. After the 14 weeks phytoremediation period, Telfairia occidentalis was able to degrade the THC in the soil from 964.35 mg/kg to 82.67 mg/kg; while Abelmoschus esculentus degraded the THC in the soil from 964.35 mg/kg to 104 mg/kg. Therefore, due to the harmful effects of the petroleum products on agricultural soils, laws banning their indiscriminate disposal of should be enforced.
Role of Custom Hiring Centers in Implementation of In-situ Crop Residue Management Scheme in Ambala District (Haryana)
Authors: Prem Guru , Kumar Ramesh , Kumar Amit , . Anurag , Singh Upasana , Meena H. N.
Published: August 2019

The farmers generally burn the rice residue to vacate their fields for the timely sowing of wheat, because residues interfere with tillage and seeding operations. In Haryana, approximated 27.83 million tons of agricultural residues are produced and out of which 11.22 million ton is surplus every year. The residue of crop can play an important role in the cycling of nutrients as rice straw at harvest contains significant amount of nutrients. Government of India initiated Central Sector Scheme on “Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue” in the states of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi during the year 2018 to curb the residue burning. In this scheme, farmers were appraised to set up Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs) at subsidized rates. The subsidy on the selected crop residue management related machinery/ implements were directly deposited to the accounts of farmers. Information about the scheme was spread via latest ICT tools among the farmers of Ambala district. Hands on training programmes were imparted to CHC owners by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) for the efficient operation of the machinery/implements during sowing of next crop by mulching or incorporation of the residue.
Evaluation of Red Onion Skin Extract as Inhibitor for Gum Formation in Gas Condensates
Authors: Bamidele T. , Iwundu A. , Eke W. I. , Joel O. , Akaranta O.
Published: August 2019

In the upstream sector, gum in condensate causes significant erosion in value worth millions of dollars per annum and increases operational cost due to high injection concentration of conventional antioxidants. Phenolic compounds are commonly used at low concentrations in the downstream sector to inhibit gum formation in refined petroleum products. However, gum inhibition in condensates, in the upstream sector, requires high concentrations of phenolic antioxidant. Therefore, there is need for cheaper and more effective antioxidants for gas condensates. The present study investigates the use of Red Onion Skin Extract (ROSE) as a natural inhibitor for gum formation in condensate based on ASTM D381. Treatments with ethanolic extracts of red onion skin were carried out on seven gas condensate samples with gum formation tendency.  At a dosage of 200ppm red onion skin extract caused a reduction of 17.4% to 99.6% in washed gum content of the condensate samples. The performance of ROSE was comparable to, and in some condensates better than, commercially available catechol. The result obtained using ROSE highlights the need to explore the commercial viability of this application in oil & gas upstream operations.
Toxic Mechanisms of Aryloxyphenoxypropionates in Target and Non-target Organisms
Authors: Ore Ayokanmi , Olayinka Ebenezer Tunde
Published: August 2019

Herbicides are substances used to control unwanted plants-weeds. They can be classified into several classes by mechanism of action. This review describes the members of aryloxyphenoxypropionate herbicides, their pharmacokinetic properties, metabolism and their mechanism of phytotoxicity in target weeds as well as in non-target organisms. Two major toxicity mechanisms are described. The first is by inhibition of lipid synthesis. This is achieved by inhibiting the rate limiting step of lipid biosynthesis catalyzed by acetyl CoA carboxylase. The second mechanism is by induction of oxidative stress. This is achieved by generation of reactive oxygen species which in excess can cause oxidative damage to macromolecules and cellular structures especially the membrane lipids. Loss of vital membrane lipids alters the fluidity of membrane, loss of cellular contents and eventually cell death and death of the entire plant.
Evaluation of Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) in Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)
Authors: Singh Konsam Photan , Shaini L. , Singh Th. Sachin Deba , Kshetrimayum Victoria , Sadanandam Saishaym , Diana Wahengbam
Published: August 2019

Aim: The aim of our study was to estimate the level of HbA1c in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). To determine any correlation between HbA1c, admission blood glucose (Random blood sugar), serum lipid profile among the cases and to evaluate the outcome during hospitalization.

Study Design and Setting: Cohort study.

Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Biochemistry and General Medicine including ICCU and Cardiology unit, RIMS, Imphal, between September 2015 to August 2017.

Methodology: Data were collected from 98 patients admitted in Medicine ward who were diagnosed with ACS irrespective of their diabetes status and they were divided into three groups according to their HbA1c levels (<5.7%, 5.7-6.4%, > 6.5%). The blood samples collected by venipuncture were analyzed for HbA1c level, done by RANDOX HbA1c Rx series (latex agglutination inhibition assay), admission blood glucose (measured by Trinder’s method) and serum lipid profile (RANDOX enzymatic Endpoint Method Rx series). The data were analyzed using statistical tools like Chi Square test, Independent sample t test, Pearson’s Correlation, Fisher’s exact test through SPSS 21.0.

Results: Majority of the patients were men (72.4%) & (27.6%) women and in the age group of 51-65 years. The mean age is 62.14 years. 54.1% of the ACS patients were already diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus whereas 45.9% were non-diabetic. Out of 98 patients, 60 had HbA1c level in the diabetic range (≥6.5%), 25 in the pre-diabetic range (5.7-6.4%) and the remaining 13 were within normal range (<5.7%). Admission blood glucose, total cholesterol and LDL were positively correlated with HbA1c value.

Conclusion: The mortality of the ACS patients irrespective of diabetic status during hospitalization was associated with HbA1c value irrespective of diabetic status during hospitalization. However, it was not associated with thirty days mortality.
Correlation of Small Dense Low Density Lipoprotein, Tumour Necrosis Factor - alpha with Liver Enzymes in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Adediji Isaac Oluwole , Oluremi Adeolu Sunday , Adelakun Ayodele Ademola , Adepoju Paul Olusegun , Akingbade Dominion , Aina Daniel Ayandiran , Ademiluyi Joshua
Published: August 2019

Aim: This study investigated the relationship between small dense low density lipoprotein (sdLDL), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in chronic hepatitis B patients.

Duration of Study: June 2018- March 2019.

Subjects and Methods: Sixty (60) participants were recruited for this cross sectional study. They comprised thirty (30) clinically diagnosed chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infected patients attending clinic at a tertiary hospital in Osogbo, Osun state, Nigeria. Thirty (30) apparently healthy volunteers were recruited as control subjects after fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Anthropometric measurements were performed using standard method. About 6mL of venous blood was collected from each study participant, serum was extracted and kept at -80oC until time of analysis. Small dense LDL, TNF-α, AST, ALT and ALP were determined using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and colorimetric method as appropriate. Data analysis was done using Student’s t-test for comparison of variables and Pearson’s correlation was used to determine the relationship between variables. P–value less than 0.05 was considered significant.  

Results: SdLDL, TNF-α, AST and ALT were significantly elevated in HBV patients when compared with the control subjects (P<0.05). SdLDL had a significant positive correlation with TNF-α (P=0.03), AST (P=0.01), ALT (P=0.00). TNF-α had a significant positive correlation with AST (P=0.02) and ALT (P=0.00).

Conclusion: This study revealed a noteworthy positive relationship between sdLDL, TNF-α and hepatic aminotransferases in chronic hepatitis B patients.
Psychosocial Profile of Juvenile Delinquents
Authors: Patowary Plabita , Gopalan Rejani Thudalikunnil
Published: August 2019

Juvenile delinquency has become the most important subject matter of discussion in various fields. The disarray and destruction due to deviant behavior is assuming alarming proportions which is an awakening call to the society. The present study aims to assess various psychosocial factors which play a crucial part in the exhibition of delinquency behavior. Purposive sampling was implemented to collect data after obtaining informed consent from a sample of 30 juveniles (15 heinous and 15 non heinous offenders). Independent sample t test is used to see the difference of the different variables between heinous and non heinous offenses and product moment correlation is used to find the relationship between the different variables. Results indicated that resilience factors like emotional insight, empathy, and availability of the family, connectedness with family, negative cognition and social skills are found to have correlation with delinquent behavior. Temperamental characteristics like activation control, attention, inhibitory control and perceptual sensitivity is negatively correlated with the delinquent behavior while aggression is positively correlated. Significant difference is also found in these factors between heinous and no heinous offenses. It is also found that attachment with mother and peers play an important role in exhibiting delinquent behavior.
A Review on Nanotechnology: Analytical Techniques Use and Applications
Authors: Bahru Tassew Belete , Ajebe Eyasu Gebrie
Published: August 2019

The combination of nanotechnology with molecular biology, information technology and instrumentation, is opening the door to a new industrial age. The aim of this review article is to summarize the current knowledge of nanotechnology in synthesizing, identifying and characterization of nanomaterials using analytical techniques. Physical and chemical approach synthesis of nanomaterials befalls challenges in the development of analytical techniques used to characterize them. The major techniques include: Transmission Electron Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering, X ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction, Single Phase Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy, X ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Auger Electron Spectroscopy, X ray Absorption Fine Structure, Capillary Electrophoretic Separations, Magnetic nano particles coupled HPLC and Dynamic light scattering. Nanomaterials have been characterized for the extensive potential applications in optics, electronics, magnetics, and catalysts; chemical sensing, biomedicine, micro reactor, and they have been applied in food, biological, environmental and pharmaceuticals uses. In spite of the extended use of nano particles in diverse consumer products, there is a great concern over the unexpected impact or effects on humans due to exposure.
Correlation between Lycopene Intake and Blood Pressure in Healthy Adults from Celaya, Mexico
Authors: Contreras-Ponce Dania Concepción , Padilla-Raygoza Nicolas , Sandoval-Salazar Cuauhtemoc , Ramirez-Moreno Esther , Ramirez-Gomez Xochitl Sofia
Published: August 2019

Aims: To identify if there is a correlation between lycopene intake and blood pressure levels in healthy adults of Celaya.

Study Design: Cross-sectional, observational, analytical study.

Place: All students registered at a public university in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico.

Methodology: To measure blood pressure, a humeral digital baumanometer with adult bracelet (Rossmax MG150f) was used. The measurement was performed three times with a two-minute interval and the average systolic and diastolic blood pressure was obtained. The daily intake of lycopene was evaluated with a questionnaire of the frequency of consumption of meals. The µg of lycopene were estimated with software related to the frequency of consumption of meals. Descriptive statistics were used for all variables. To identify the correlation and possible linear relationship between lycopene intake and blood pressure, Pearson r was calculated, linear regression equation, t-test, and P-value and Confidence Intervals at 95%.

Results: We included 446 participants (74.28% women, 25.78% men; between 18-51 years of age). The average systolic blood pressure was 108.30 mmHg, while the average diastolic blood pressure was 71.07 mmHg. The mean daily intake of lycopene was 6477.38 µg.  However, there was no correlation or lineal relationship between lycopene intake and the measurement of systolic blood pressure (P=.93) and diastolic blood pressure (P=.5).

Conclusion: No correlation was found between daily intake of lycopene and blood pressure (P> .05) in this adult sample from Celaya, Mexico. Studies should be conducted with a different way of determining the intake or level of lycopene in the body.
Cryptococcosis in HIV – Infected Hospitalized Patients in Latvia
Authors: Anastasija Sangirejeva , Inga Azina , Baiba Rozentale
Published: August 2019

Aims: To determine the prevalence of cryptococcal infection among HIV hospitalized patients, to evaluate clinical characteristics and outcomes in Latvia.

Study Design:  Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Riga Eastern Clinical University Hospital, Latvian Center of Infectology, between January 2014 and February 2017.

Methodology: We conducted the study reporting demographics, epidemiological (age, sex, clinical aspects, paraclinical results (cryptococcal antigen in cerebrospinal fluid, serum, urine, cryptococcal DNA, HIV RNA and lymphocyte T CD4+ count), treatment and outcome aspects. We analyze 69 patients (71% men, 29% women) with HIV infection and cryptococcosis.

Results: 69 cases of cryptococcosis were confirmed for 699 HIV infected hospitalized patients tested, giving a prevalence of 9.9%. 38% (n=26/69) of patients were with clinical signs of infection with the central nervous system involvement, 19% (13/69) patients had pulmonary involvement.

Other 43% (n=30/69) of patients had disseminated non-CNS disease (elevated serum cryptococcal Ag or DNA). Most patients had advanced HIV disease (Median lymphocyte T CD4+ count=48, 5 cells/uL, (1-1041), the average was 112, 9 cells/ uL (SD 184.98). 87% (n=59/68) of patients had lymphocyte T CD4+cell count < 200 cells/μL Only 25% (n=14) of the patients known to have HIV infection (n=56/69) were receiving antiretroviral therapy at the time of presentation. Overall mortality rate was 59% (n=41/69).

Conclusion: Prevalence of cryptococcal antigenemia was 9.9%, indicating that the prevalence  of cryptococcal infection among HIV patients in Latvia may be high enough to consider targeted screening.HIV positive patients have high mortality (35%) following cryptococcal infection which persists beyond their initial hospitalization. Follow-up studies of late mortality would be beneficial.
Risk of Serious Infection Among Initiators of Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors Plus Methotrexate Versus Triple Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cohort Study
Authors: Kang Eun Ha , Jin Yinzhu , Tong Angela Y. , Desai Rishi J. , Kim Seoyoung C.
Published: August 2019

Objective

To compare the risk of serious infections between the use of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) plus methotrexate (MTX) versus triple therapy among rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in a real‐world setting.

Methods

Using claims data from Truven MarketScan (2003–2014), we conducted a cohort study to compare RA patients receiving MTX who added a TNFi (TNFi plus MTX group) versus MTX plus hydroxychloroquine and sulfasalazine (triple therapy group). The primary outcome was any serious infection (i.e., a composite end point of hospitalized bacterial and opportunistic infections or herpes zoster). Secondary outcomes were individual components of the composite end point. To adjust for baseline confounding, we used propensity score (PS)–based fine stratification and weighting. A weighted Cox proportional hazards model estimated the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of the outcomes.

Results

After PS stratification (PSS) and weighting, we included a total of 45,208 TNFi plus MTX initiators and 1,387 triple therapy initiators. Mean age was 53 years and 70% were female. The incidence rate of any serious infection per 100 person‐years was 2.46 in the TNFi plus MTX group and 2.03 in the triple therapy group. The PSS‐weighted HR for any serious infection comparing TNFi plus MTX versus triple therapy was 1.23 (95% CI 0.87–1.74). For the secondary outcomes, the PSS‐weighted HR was 1.41 (95% CI 0.85–2.34) for bacterial infection and 0.80 (95% CI 0.55–1.18) for herpes zoster.

Conclusion

In this real‐world cohort of RA patients, we noted no substantially different risk of any serious infection, bacterial infection, or herpes zoster after initiating TNFi plus MTX versus triple therapy, although CIs were wide.
Entirely, Intrinsically, and Autonomously Self‐Healable, Highly Transparent, and Superstretchable Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Personal Power Sources and Self‐Powered Electronic Skins
Authors: Lai Ying‐Chih , Wu Hsing‐Mei , Lin Heng‐Chuan , Chang Chih‐Li , Chou Ho‐Hsiu , Hsiao Yung‐Chi , Wu Yan‐Cheng
Published: August 2019

Power and electronic components that are self‐healable, deformable, transparent, and self‐powered are highly desirable for next‐generation energy/electronic/robotic applications. Here, an energy‐harvesting triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) that combines the above features is demonstrated, which can serve not only as a power source but also as self‐powered electronic skin. This is the first time that both of the triboelectric‐charged layer and electrode of the TENG are intrinsically and autonomously self‐healable at ambient conditions. Additionally, comparing with previous partially healable TENGs, its fast healing time (30 min, 100% efficiency at 900% strain), high transparency (88.6%), and inherent superstretchability (>900%) are much more favorable. It consists of a metal‐coordinated polymer as the triboelectrically charged layer and hydrogen‐bonded ionic gel as the electrode. Even after 500 cutting‐and‐healing cycles or under extreme 900%‐strain, the TENG retains its functionality. The generated electricity can be used directly or stored to power commercial electronics. The TENG is further used as self‐powered tactile‐sensing skin in diverse human–machine interfaces including smart glass, an epidermal controller, and phone panel. This TENG with merits including fast ambient‐condition self‐healing, high transparency, intrinsic stretchability, and energy‐extraction and actively‐sensing abilities, can meet wide application needs ranging from deformable/portable/transparent electronics, smart interfaces, to artificial skins.
Fast Lasing Wavelength Tuning in Single Nanowires
Authors: Xu Peizhen , Gong Jue , Guo Xin , Xin Chenguang , Wu Hao , Qing Peng , Lin Xing , Fang Wei , Di Dawei , Tong Limin
Published: August 2019

Nanowire lasers hold great potential as nanoscale coherent light sources. The rapid wavelength tuning of such light sources is one of the most important parameters for practical applications. Although significant efforts have been made in the past decades, the fast and reversible lasing wavelength tuning in nanowires or structures alike remains a challenge. Here, by incorporating temperature‐dependent Varshni shift of the bandgap with ultralow thermal inertia of a free‐standing cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanowire, a fast lasing wavelength tuning in single nanowires with excellent reversibility is demonstrated. Above room temperature, a Varshni shift rate (≈0.16 nm K−1) twice larger than that at low temperature (≈ 0.085 nm K−1) is observed, and the nanowire lasing peak is tuned from 514 to 549 nm with step down to 0.075 nm K−1. Using a beam of CO2 laser pulses to instantaneously modulate the temperature of a free‐standing lasing nanowire, a reversible wavelength tuning at a rate of ≈48 000 nm s−1, which is about three orders of magnitude faster than that reported previously is achieved. The results herein suggest a very promising route to fast wavelength tuning in lasing nanowires or other nanostructures, which may lead to fast tunable nanolasers for a variety of nanophotonic applications.
Pupil Prose Appraisal: Four Practical Solutions to Medical Student Documentation and Feedback in the Emergency Department
Authors: Olaf Mark F.
Published: August 2019

Documentation is part of a critical foundation of skills in the undergraduate medical education curriculum. New compliance rules from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will impact student documentation practices. Common barriers to student documentation include limited access to the electronic medical record, variable clerkship documentation expectations, variable advice regarding utilizing the electronic medical record, and limited time for feedback delivery. Potential solutions to these barriers are suggested to foster documentation skill development. Recommendations are also given to mitigate compliance and legal risk.
Comparison of apixaban to rivaroxaban and enoxaparin in acute cancer‐associated venous thromboembolism
Authors: Wysokinski Waldemar E. , Houghton Damon E. , Casanegra Ana I. , Vlazny Danielle T. , Bott‐Kitslaar Dalene M. , Froehling David A. , Hodge David O. , Peterson Lisa G. , Mcbane Robert D.
Published: August 2019

To provide direct comparison between apixaban and rivaroxaban in patients with acute cancer‐associated venous thromboembolism (Ca‐VTE), consecutive patients treated with apixaban, rivaroxaban, or enoxaparin at Mayo Thrombophilia Clinic (March 1, 2013 to January 31, 2018)) were followed prospectively. The primary effectiveness outcome was venous thromboembolism (VTE) recurrence, and the secondary was mortality. The primary safety outcome was major bleeding, the secondary clinically relevant safety outcome was non‐major bleeding (CRNMB), and the third a composite of major and CRNMB. There were 750 patients treated for acute Ca‐VTE with apixaban (n = 224), rivaroxaban (n = 163), and enoxaparin (n = 363) within 14 days of diagnosis and for at least 3 months, or until study event. Recurrent VTE was diagnosed in 11 receiving apixaban, 7 receiving rivaroxaban (apixaban vs rivaroxaban hazard ratio (HR) 1.31, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.51‐3.36) and 17 in the enoxaparin receiving group (apixaban vs enoxaparin HR 1.14, 95% CI: 0.54, 2.42 and rivaroxaban vs enoxaparin HR 0.85, 95% Cl: 0.36, 2.06). There were 82 deaths in apixaban, 74 rivaroxaban (apixaban vs rivaroxaban HR 1.67, 95% Cl: 1.20, 2.33) and 171 in enoxaparin group (rivaroxaban vs enoxaparin HR 0.73, 95% Cl: 0.56, 0.96). Major bleeding occurred in 11 apixaban, 12 rivaroxaban (apixaban vs rivaroxaban HR 0.73, 95% Cl: 0.32, 1.66) and 21 enoxaparin group (apixaban vs enoxaparin HR 0.89, 95% Cl: 0.43, 1.84 and rivaroxaban vs enoxaparin HR 1.23, 95% Cl: 0.61, 2.50). The CRNMB rate was higher in rivaroxaban compared to apixaban (P = .03) and LMWH (P = .01) groups. Recurrence of VTE and major bleeding were similar in apixaban, rivaroxaban, and enoxaparin groups. Rivaroxaban was associated with higher CRNMB but lower mortality compared to apixaban and enoxaparin.
Birch‐Type Photoreduction of Arenes and Heteroarenes by Sensitized Electron Transfer
Authors: Chatterjee Anamitra , König Burkhard
Published: August 2019

The direct reduction of arenes and heteroarenes by visible‐light irradiation remains challenging, as the energy of a single photon is not sufficient for breaking aromatic stabilization. Shown herein is that the energy accumulation of two visible‐light photons allows the dearomatization of arenes and heteroarenes. Mechanistic investigations confirm that the combination of energy‐transfer and electron‐transfer processes generates an arene radical anion, which is subsequently trapped by hydrogen‐atom transfer and finally protonated to form the dearomatized product. The photoreduction converts planar aromatic feedstock compounds into molecular skeletons that are of use in organic synthesis.
A One‐Dimensional π–d Conjugated Coordination Polymer for Sodium Storage with Catalytic Activity in Negishi Coupling
Authors: Chen Yuan , Tang Mi , Wu Yanchao , Su Xiaozhi , Li Xiang , Xu Shuaifei , Zhuo Shuming , Ma Jing , Yuan Daqiang , Wang Chengliang , Hu Wenping
Published: August 2019

π‐d Conjugated coordination polymers (CCPs) have attracted much attention for various applications, although the chemical states and structures of many CCPs are still blurry. Now, a one‐dimensional (1D) π‐d conjugated coordination polymer for high performance sodium‐ion batteries is presented. The chemical states of the obtained coordination polymer are clearly revealed. The electrochemical process undergoes a three‐electron reaction and the structure transforms from C=N double bonds and NiIIto C−N single bonds and NiI, respectively. Our unintentional experiments provided visual confirmation of NiI. The existence of NiIwas further corroborated by its X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) and its catalytic activity in Negishi cross‐coupling.
Flame‐retardant effects of cyclic phosphonate with HALS and fumed silica in polypropylene
Authors: Üreyen Mustafa E. , Kaynak Elif , Yüksel Gamze
Published: August 2019

In this study, an N‐alkoxy‐hindered amine‐based UV stabilizing agent (NOR‐116) and nanosized silica particles (Aerosil R‐972) were combined with a cyclic phosphonate based‐flame retardant (FR; PCO‐900) and incorporated into polypropylene via melt extrusion in a microcompounder. In order to stimulate the conditions in the favor of further processing such as fiber spinning, the content of additives in polypropylene was kept low (up to 6.5 wt %). The effects of the PCO‐900, alone and in combination with NOR‐116 and Aerosil‐R972, on the flammability and thermal stability of polypropylene were evaluated by limit oxygen index (LOI) tests, cone calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The proposed system with 3.5 wt % PCO‐900/1.5 wt % NOR‐116/1 wt % Aerosil‐R972 decreased the heat release, increased the LOI and thermo‐oxidative stability, and, thus, improved the fire resistance of polypropylene. The possible mode of FR activity was also discussed based on the analysis. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48308.
Optic Chiasm Morphometric Changes in Multiple Sclerosis: Feasibility of a Simplified Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measure of White Matter Atrophy
Authors: Zaccagna Fulvio , Matys Tomasz , Massoud Tarik F.
Published: August 2019

Sophisticated volume measurements of brain structures on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may improve specificity in determining long‐term progression of multiple sclerosis (MS), but these techniques are laborious. The optic chiasm (OC) is a white matter (WM) structure clearly visible on a routine MRI and is related to the optic nerves (ONs), which are known to atrophy in MS. We hypothesized that OC morphometric measurements would show OC atrophy in MS compared to normal patients. If so, this could help establish a novel simplified brain MRI measure of WM atrophy in MS patients. We retrospectively evaluated standard brain MRIs of 97 patients with known MS and 98 normal individuals. We electronically measured eight OC morphometrics on axial T2WIs and midsagittal T1WIs: OC width and anteroposterior (AP) diameter, diameters of each ON and optic tract (OT), and angles between the ONs or OTs. Mean OC width, AP diameter, and height in MS patients were 11.83 ± 1.25 mm (95% CI 11.58–12.09), 2.99 ± 0.65 mm (95% CI 2.85–3.12), and 2.09 ± 0.37 mm (95% CI 2–2.19), respectively. In normal individuals, they were 12.1 ± 1.4 mm (95% CI 11.78–12.34), 3.43 ± 0.63 mm (95% CI 3.3–3.58), and 2.15 ± 0.37 mm (95% CI 2.07–2.23), respectively. There were statistically significant differences between MS patients and controls for AP diameter (P = 0.000), but not for width (P = 0.204) or height (P = 0.183). The ONs were significantly smaller in MS (P < 0.0017), but not the OTs. Thus, the OC is significantly atrophied in an unstratified cohort of MS patients. Future studies may establish an MRI OC morphometric index to evaluate demyelinating disease in the brain. Clin. Anat. 32:1072–1081, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of DNA‐Encoded Disulfide‐ and Thioether‐Cyclized Peptides
Authors: Pham Manh V. , Bergeron‐Brlek Milan , Heinis Christian
Published: August 2019

DNA‐encoded chemical library technologies enable the screening of large combinatorial libraries of chemically and structurally diverse molecules, including short cyclic peptides. A challenge in the combinatorial synthesis of cyclic peptides is the final step, the cyclization of linear peptides that typically suffers from incomplete reactions and large variability between substrates. Several efficient peptide cyclization strategies rely on the modification of thiol groups, such as the formation of disulfide or thioether bonds between cysteines. In this work, we established a strategy and reaction conditions for the efficient chemical synthesis of cyclic peptide–DNA conjugates based on linking the side chains of cysteines. We tested two different thiol‐protecting groups and found that tert‐butylthio (S‐tBu) works best for incorporating a pair of cysteines, and we show that the DNA‐linked peptides can be efficiently cyclized through disulfide and thioether bond formation. In combination with established procedures for DNA encoding, the strategy for incorporation of cysteines may be readily applied for the generation and screening of disulfide‐ and thioether‐cyclized peptide libraries.
Separation and identification of antioxidant peptides from foxtail millet (Setaria italica) prolamins enzymatic hydrolysate
Authors: Ji Zhongwei , Feng Ruixue , Mao Jian
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives

Prolamins are the primary component of millet protein, constituting over 50% (w/w) of the total protein. This study aimed to prepare and identify bioactive peptides from millet prolamins (MP).

Findings

Ultrasonic and heat treatment could change the secondary structure conformation of the protein and invert part of the α‐helices into β‐sheets or β‐turns. After these treatments, the degree of hydrolysis increased. The alcalase‐hydrolyzed fraction with molecular weight <1 kDa exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. The bioactive peptides were separated and purified by gel‐filtration chromatography and reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. Two novel peptides with molecular weights of 522.3 and 785.5 Da were identified as Pro‐Phe‐Leu‐Phe (PFLF) and Ile‐Ala‐Leu‐Leu‐Ile‐Pro‐Phe (IALLIPF), respectively. Both peptides showed high antioxidant activity, especially PFLF, the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability (RSA) of which was 149 μM TE/g protein, and the Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) value reached 1,180 μM TE/g protein.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that ultrasonic and heat treatment could enhance hydrolysis of MP by protease and antioxidant peptides with high DPPH RSA as well as ORAC value were purified and obtained.

Significance and novelty

Ultrasonic and heat treatment increased degree of MP hydrolysis. Two antioxidant peptides were successfully obtained from millet prolamins.
Rod‐Cell‐Mimetic Photochromic Layered Ion Channels with Multiple Switchable States for Controllable Ion Transport
Authors: Xiao Tianliang , Ma Jing , Jiang Jiaqiao , Gan Mengke , Lu Bingxin , Luo Rifeng , Liu Qingqing , Zhang Qianqian , Liu Zhaoyue , Zhai Jin
Published: August 2019

The controllable ion transport in the photoreceptors of rod cells is essentially important for the light detection and information transduction in visual systems. Herein, inspired by the photochromism‐regulated ion transport in rod cells with stacking structure, layered ion channels have been developed with a visual photochromic function induced by the alternate irradiation with visible and UV light. The layered structure is formed by stacking spiropyran‐modified montmorillonite 2D nanosheets on the surface of an alumina nanoporous membrane. The visual photochromism resulting from the photoisomerization of spiropyran chromophores reversibly regulates the ion transport through layered ion channels. Furthermore, the cooperation of photochromism and pH value achieves multiple switchable states of layered ion channels for the controllable ion transport mimicking the biological process of the visual cycle. The ion transport properties of these states are explained quantitatively by a theoretical calculation based on the Poisson and Nernst–Plank (PNP) equations.
A Multiresponsive Nanohybrid to Enhance the Lysosomal Delivery of Oxygen and Photosensitizers
Authors: Du Baoji , Zhang Weiqi , Tung Ching‐Hsuan
Published: August 2019

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising cancer ablation method, but its efficiency is easily affected by several factors, such as the insufficient delivery of photosensitizers, low oxygen levels as well as long distance between singlet oxygen and intended organelles. A multifunctional nanohybrid, named MGAB, consisting of gelatin‐coated manganese dioxide and albumin‐coated gold nanoclusters, was designed to overcome these issues by improving chlorin e6 (Ce6) delivery and stimulating oxygen production in lysosomes. MGAB were quickly degraded in a high hydrogen peroxide, high protease activity, and low pH microenvironment, which is closely associated with tumor growth. The Ce6‐loaded MGAB were picked up by tumor cells through endocytosis, degraded within the lysosomes, and released oxygen and photosensitizers. Upon near‐infrared light irradiation, the close proximity of oxygen with photosensitizer within lysosomes enabled the production of cytotoxic singlet oxygen, resulting in more effective PDT.
Jedem sein eigener Riecher
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: August 2019

Die menschliche Geruchswahrnehmung, oft unterschätzt, ist hochgradig komplex und noch lange nicht im Detail decodiert. Eine neue Studie verdoppelt die Zahl der bewiesenen Verbindungen zwischen Rezeptoren und Geruchsstoffen, zeigt aber auch, dass vermutlich jeder Einzelne die Welt der Düfte anders wahrnimmt.
Radiologic differentiation of enchondromas, atypical cartilaginous tumors, and high‐grade chondrosarcomas—Improving tumor‐specific treatment: A paradigm in transit?
Authors: van de Sande Michiel A. J. , van der Wal Robert J. P. , Navas Cañete Ana , van Rijswijk Carla S. P. , Kroon Herman M. , Dijkstra P. D. Sander , Bloem Johan L. (Hans)
Published: August 2019

Radiomics can differentiate an enchondroma (a “don't touch” lesion) from an atypical cartilaginous tumor (which justifies watchful waiting) and a high‐grade chondrosarcoma (which necessitates resection with negative margins), and it will aid in individualized medicine for cartilaginous lesions of the appendicular skeleton.
The Japanese Pioneering Contribution to the Investigation of Modular Structures
Authors: Umayahara Akihiro , Nespolo Massimo
Published: August 2019

Monoarchetypal modular crystal structures are built by regularly juxtaposing modules obtained from the same archetype. At the interface the coordination environment may altered, leading to a chemical modulation that accompanies the structural variability. When this does not occur the result is a series of polytypes, whose building modules are not limited to layers, although the latter represent the most common examples. The symmetry theory of polytypes was developed by the Order–Disorder (OD) school, which however considered only layers as building modules, and only those polytypes in which pairs of layers are geometrically equivalent. Well before the OD school, Ito in Japan recognized the need of a wider algebraic category, that he called “twinned space groups”, in which he considered only digonal operations. His approach was later expanded by Sadanaga, who recognized that Ito's “twinned space groups” are space groupoids. In this article the contribution of the Japanese school to the field is traced back, and it is shown that the fundamental concepts later developed in a more systematic way, were already present, in a nutshell, in the works of Ito and Sadanaga; finally, a slightly revised classification of monoarchetypal modular structures is proposed which better reflects the original contribution by the Japanese school.
Neuropathological correlates of amyloid PET imaging in Down syndrome
Authors: Abrahamson Eric E. , Head Elizabeth , Lott Ira T. , Handen Benjamin L. , Mufson Elliott J. , Christian Bradley T. , Klunk William E. , Ikonomovic Milos D.
Published: August 2019

Down syndrome (DS) results in an overproduction of amyloid‐β (Aβ) peptide associated with early onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD). DS cases have Aβ deposits detectable histologically as young as 12–30 years of age, primarily in the form of diffuse plaques, the type of early amyloid pathology also seen at pre‐clinical (i.e., pathological aging) and prodromal stages of sporadic late onset AD. In DS subjects aged >40 years, levels of cortical Aβ deposition are similar to those observed in late onset AD and in addition to diffuse plaques involve cored plaques associated with dystrophic neurites (neuritic plaques), which are of neuropathological diagnostic significance in AD. The purpose of this review is to summarize and discuss findings from amyloid PET imaging studies of DS in reference to postmortem amyloid‐based neuropathology. PET neuroimaging applied to subjects with DS has the potential to (a) track the natural progression of brain pathology, including the earliest stages of amyloid accumulation, and (b) determine whether amyloid PET biomarkers predict the onset of dementia. In addition, the question that is still incompletely understood and relevant to both applications is the ability of amyloid PET to detect Aβ deposits in their earliest form.