bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Ethno-Veterinary Management Practices among Sheep and Goat Farmers in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Adekunmi A. O. , Ajiboye A. , Awoyemi A. O. , Osundare F. O. , Oluwatusin F. M. , Toluwase S. O. W. , Abdu-Raheem K. A.
Published: May 2020

The study assessed the determinants of the use of Ethno-Veterinary Management (EVM) practices among sheep and goats farmers in southwest, Nigeria. A validated interview schedule was used to source information from one hundred and twenty farmers for the study. Data were collected on selected farmers’ socio-economic characteristics, various EVM practices and constraints encountered on the use of various EVM practices. Descriptive statistics such as frequency count, percentage, means, standard deviation and ranking were employed to summarize the data. Binomial logit regression analysis was employed to assess the determinants of the use of EVM practices among sheep and goats farmers. The study revealed that the mean age of the respondents was 32.7 years with 58.3% males. Also, 91.7% were able to read and write and the mean household size was 4 while 40% received information on EVM practices. The common diseases and pests of sheep and goats in the study area were foot rot, mastitis, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, trypanosomiasis, ticks, fleas and mites. Common EVM practices employed by the farmers were: the use of spent engine oil, kerosene, oil extracts of palm oil vernonia conferta leaves etc. Age and sex had negative relationships with the use of EVM practices at 5% level of significance while educational level, household size, farming experience, sources of information on EVM practices had positive significant relationships with the use of EVM practices. Insufficient fund was the major constraint hindering the rearing of sheep and goats in the study area. It was concluded that small ruminants’ farmers did manage their stocks employing some EVM practices and sensitize farmers on the efficacy of some EVM practices. Government should encourage veterinary practices which will integrate western medicines and EVM practices together for the use of small ruminants’ farmers.
Evaluation of Pre-mix Fungicide, Fluopyram and Trifloxystrobin 250SC against Purple Blotch Disease of Onion in Karnataka
Authors: Ravikumar M. R. , Harish D. K. , Kumara B. H. , Kumar Amarendra
Published: May 2020

Onion (Allium cepa L.) also known as the bulb onion or is rightly called as Queen of kitchen. It is one of the oldest important vegetable crops grown in India. Among the various fungal diseases, purple blotch caused by Alternaria porri is one of the most serious disease of onion which causes extensive damage to bulbs as well as seed crop. Field experiment was carried out to know the effect of combi-fungicide Luna sensation 500SC (Fluopyram250SC and Trifloxystrobin 250SC) at 400, 500 and 600 ml /ha along with recommended fungicides against purple blotch disease of onion during kharif seasons 2017-18 and 2018-19. A total of eight treatments were taken and among them Luna sensation 500SC (Fluopyram250SC and Trifloxystrobin 250SC) 600 ml / ha proved to be best for management of purple blotch 22.03% diseases index (PDI), which was superior over all other treatments with maximum bulb yield of 24.77 t/ha.
Identification of Meteorological Drought Characteristics and Drought Year Based on Rainfall Departure Analysis
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Panda Kanhu Charan , Nafil Mohammad , Sharma Gaurav
Published: May 2020

Dholpur district is located in the semi-arid regions of Rajasthan. The region is affected due to unreliable rainfall pattern, which resulted in the development of a drought-like situation.  The mean annual rainfall in the district is 596.76 mm. The present study has been conducted to identify drought-prone station, drought year and drought characteristics. Departure analysis of seasonal and annual rainfall helps to determine drought year and drought characteristics. The study shows that the region in under widespread drought condition in 1986, 1987, 1989, 1991, 2002, 2006, and 2007. The drought severity in the region was classified into four categories, namely extreme, severe, moderate and mild. Maximum extreme drought events occur in Baseri and Dholpur station. Urmilsagar station faced severe drought events 4 times followed by Rajakhera station with three times. Occurrences of moderate and mild drought events are frequent in the region. All the stations are drought-prone based on probability analysis of annual rainfall. Relative departure index (RDI) has been used to decide the relative drought proneness of the various station and based on which Dholpur station (RDI= 1.04) followed by Baseri station (RDI=1.0) are relatively higher drought-prone. The region faces natural water scarcity and droughts. Therefore effort is needed for drought preparedness, mitigation and management measures.
Correlation and Path Analysis of Yield Components in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Irrigated and Reproductive Stage Drought Stress Condition
Authors: Perween Sadia , Kumar Anand , Adan Fariha , Kumar Jitesh , Raj Prince , Kumar Anil
Published: May 2020

Aim: The current experiment was conducted to study correlation and path analysis among morphological traits and their contribution towards yield under irrigated and drought stress condition using forty eight diverse rice genotypes.

Study Design: The experiment was studied in three replications using Randomized Block Design.

Place and Duration of Study: The research was carried out during Kharif 2018 at Rice Research Farm, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour (Bhagalpur), India.

Methodology: The experiment was conducted in two different sets; irrigated and drought stress condition. The yield and yield attributes were recorded under both the conditions to conduct the correlation and path analysis.

Results: The analysis of variance revealed that genotypes significantly varied in yield and yield related traits. In addition, growth and yield attributes such as effective tillers per hill, biological yield, harvest index (%) and number of fertile grains per panicle were significantly and positively correlated with grain yield per plant under irrigated as well as reproductive stage drought stress condition. It was observed that total number of grains per panicle, number of fertile grains per panicle and biological yield had high positive direct effect on grain yield per plant in both irrigated (control) as well stress condition, indicating true relationship of these characters with grain yield and direct selection for these characters will be rewarding. In rest of the characters studied, correlation was mainly due to indirect effects through component characters and hence indirect selection will lead to yield improvement in rice.

Conclusion: The potential for direct and indirect selection for reproductive stage drought stress tolerance using the associated characters may be useful to the breeder to formulate appropriate breeding plans for the selection of the genotype which tolerate high temperature condition.
SARIMA Modelling and Forecasting of Monthly Rainfall Patterns for Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kokilavani S. , Pangayarselvi R. , Ramanathan S. P. , Dheebakaran Ga. , Sathyamoorthy N. K. , Maragatham N. , Gowtham R.
Published: May 2020

Weather forecasting is an important subject in the field of meteorology all over the world. The pattern and amount of rainfall are the essential factors that affect agricultural systems. The present paper describes an empirical study for modeling and forecasting the time series of monthly rainfall patterns for Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. The Box-Jenkins Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) methodology has been adopted for model identification, diagnostic checking and forecasting for this region. The best SARIMA models were selected based on the Autocorrelation Function (ACF) and Partial Autocorrelation Function (PACF) and the minimum values of Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). The study has shown that the SARIMA (0,0,0)(2,0,0)12 model was appropriate for analysing and forecasting the future rainfall patterns. The Root Means Square Error (RMSE) values were found to be 52.37 and proved that the above model was the best model for further forecasting the rainfall.
Field Test Analysis of Straw Reaper Combine for Optimized Operating Condition to Improve the Performance
Authors: Prabhakar Shukla , Subhasis Nandi , Parmanand Shau , Anurag Patel , Himanshu Tripathi
Published: May 2020

The profitability of ex-situ straw management largely depends on the quantity and quality of straw recovered from the field. The straw reaper-combine is one of the widely used ex-situ straw management technologies being used to retrieve the leftover residue in the field after grain combine operation. Besides considering the positive implication of this technology in recent times, the quality of operation, which accounts for maximizing the performance parameters of straw reaper-combine in a wheat crop. The relationship among these parameters was established using multiple linear regression techniques through the regression equation. The ANOVA test of this experiment also established the significant (P<0.01) effect of forwarding speed and cutting height on all performance parameters. It was observed from the experiment that when the forward speed was increased while keeping the cutting height at a constant level the recovery percentage and specific energy consumption were decreased whereas, straw split percentage and actual field capacity were increased. Likewise, when cutting height was increased keeping the forward speed at a constant level the recovery and split percentage were reduced but, the actual field capacity and specific energy consumption were increased. In order to achieve maximum performance at optimum energy consumption, the straw reaper should be operated at a speed between 3-4 km/h with cutting height between 30-60 mm.
Molecular Docking in Drug Discovery: A Review on Anti-snake Venom Development
Authors: Funmilola Adewunmi Rofiat , Abubakar Gidado , Hassan Zanna
Published: May 2020

Snakebite is a frequent accident faced by rural community's dwellers, and it has remained a neglected public health problem in many countries. Snake venom is a complex mixture of proteins, and they participate to envenomation through a diverse array of bioactivities, such as bleeding, inﬂammation, and pain, cytotoxic, cardiotoxic or neurotoxic effects. The only approved and accepted treatment for snakebite envenoming is the use of antivenoms produced by the purification of IgG immunoglobulins immunized against specific snake venom. However, various technological approaches are being pursued by different research groups, including the use of small-molecule inhibitors, antibody-based bio-therapeutics and peptide-based aptamer against enzymatic toxins and non-enzymatic toxins in snake venom. Modern bioinformatics tools have been recently developed to mine snake venoms, helping focus experimental research on the most potentially interesting toxins. Some computational techniques predict toxin molecular targets, and the binding mode to these targets. This review presents molecular docking studies of potential targeted key enzymes in snake venom.
Effect of Antiasthma Medication on Blood Eosinophil Count and Serum Immunoglobulin E Levels: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Wani Wasim A. , A. Dar Sheeraz , Kawosa Khalid M. , Nazir Mudasir , Ahmad Ikhlas , Ahmed Asif
Published: May 2020

Background: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of lung airways resulting in episodic airflow obstruction.

Aims: The main objective of this study is to find the effect of antiasthma medication on serum IgE levels and blood eosinophil count.

Study Design: This randomized controlled trial study was performed in children aged 6-15 years of age, with clinically stable and moderate persistent asthma.

Results: The findings of this study indicate both group (Budesonide/formoterol group and budesonide group) patients experienced a significant decrease in serum IgE levels and blood eosinophil counts over the study period. However, the difference in two groups was not statistically significant.

Conclusions: Inhaled steroids are effective in controlling systemic inflammation in asthma as evidenced by a decrease in IgE levels and eosinophil counts. However addition of LABA doesn’t have any additive effect.
Can Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) Hook.f. Serve as Supplement for Production of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus floridanus) Singer?
Authors: Ofomana F. , Adedokun O. M.
Published: May 2020

Supplement in mushroom production boosts yield. Fluted pumpkin parts were assessed as an alternative to wheat bran as supplement in mushroom production. Sawdust, lime and wheat bran or fluted pumpkin (Pod, seed, stem) were mixed in ratio 180: 1: 30. There were 10 replicates for each treatment. The design was completely randomized blocked design. The results showed that supplemented sawdust with wheat bran had higher value for the dry weight with significant difference from treatments with pumpkin parts in some flushes and none in other flushes Supplemented sawdust with mixture of all supplements was highest in Ash (14.30%) and moisture (24.75%). Protein and lipids values were highest for supplemented sawdust with wheat bran and significantly different (p<0.05) from other treatments. Sawdust supplemented with fluted pumpkin stem (28.06%) had highest value for carbohydrates while that supplemented with pod had (21.16%), the highest for fiber. For minerals, K (794.50 mg/kg), Ca (349.75 mg/kg), and Na (379.50 mg/kg) were highest for Fluted Pumpkin Seed Supplement, Fluted Pumpkin Pod Supplement and No Supplement respectively. In conclusion, Fluted pumpkin pod and stem compares very well with wheat bran supplement, and can serve as supplement in the production of oyster mushroom.
Toxicity of the Hydroethanolic Leaves Extract of Duranta erecta L. in Rat Models
Authors: Donkor Shadrack , Larbie Christopher , Komlaga Gustav , Emikpe Benjamin Obukowho
Published: May 2020

Background and Objectives: Duranta erecta is used in folklore medicine for the treatment of myriad of diseases in Africa. The study was carried out to evaluate the safety of hydroethanolic leaves extract of D. erecta in experimental rats in order to ascertain its potential toxic effects. Materials and Methods: The acute toxicity study was performed by fixed dose method at 5000 mg/kg. In the subacute study performed on both male and female rats, group I (control) received 1 mL of freshly distilled water, groups II, III, IV were treated with 100, 250 and 500 mg/kg of freshly prepared extract respectively for 28 days. At the end of the study, haematological and biochemical parameters were determined. Internal organs (kidney, liver, lung, heart, spleen, stomach, testes and uterus) were weighed.

Results: 50% lethal dose (LD50) of the extract was determined to be > 5 g/kg body weight. The subacute toxicity assessment resulted in overall body weight increase, a change in relative organ weight of the liver, lung, stomach, and changes in the haematological indices such as HCT%, LYM%, RDW- SD/fL, MCHC, MCV/fL, P-LCR% and biochemical parameters namely ALT, AST, LDH and creatinine of the tested group relative to the normal. The positive activity of the extract on liver enzymes and LDH is an indication of its good hepatoprotective potential.

Conclusion: The results affirmed that the extract is safe but could cause kidney problems when used for a prolonged period.
Quality Use of Medicines among Makkah Residents, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Haseeb Abdul , Radwan Rozan , Bokhari Somaiah , Albaz Saly , Algarni Azizah Ali , Elrggal Mahmoud E. , Hassali Mohamed Azmi , Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Alqurashi Ashwaq
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Quality Use of Medicines (QUoM) is of utmost importance regarding the safety and overall healthcare of the consumers/patients. This study aimed to explore the general usage pattern and attitude of the Makkah community about the safe use of medicines i.e. QUoM.

Methods: Face to face interviews were done to administer questionnaires among patients from two hospitals and four primary care centers dealing with patients from rural and urban areas in the Holly Makkah region.

Results: A total of 554 patients were enrolled while the majority of them were lived in urban areas (n=457,82%). Around 419 (76%) responder were females and 531(96%) were living with their family and had up to college education (n=174,31%). We found that most of the respondents were diabetic (185,33%) and hypertensive (n=172,31%). Most of the patients (207,37%) stated that they preferred to get drug information from healthcare professionals.

Conclusion: This periodic mapping of appropriate medication usage among patients/consumers is indeed an important effort to explore issues on QUoM.
A Point Prevalence Survey of Antimicrobial Usage for Surgical Site Infections- A Pilot Perspective from Holy Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Haseeb Abdul , Faidah Hani Saleh , Al-Gethamy Manal , Alghamdi Saad , Barnawi Abrar Mohammed , Aljuhani Afnan Abid , Hareedi Haneen Smai , Basndwah Halimah Saeed , Malayou Randa Talat , Almotairi Reham Mohammed , Elahe Shuruq Sami , Iqbal Muhammad Shahid
Published: May 2020

Introduction: This study aimed to assess the incidence, microbiological features and management of surgical site infections (SSIs).

Methodology: All patients in the surgical ward were followed from admissions until discharge during the study period. Only hospitalized patients with certain SSIs within 30 days of surgeries were included in the study.

Results: A total of 457 patients were followed during the study period. Interestingly, only 9 (1.9 %) of the patients developed SSIs. Most of the patients were males 6 (66.7%) and Saudi nationals 7 (77.8 %). The most common surgical procedures were laparoscopic and orthopedic surgeries with a similar rate of 3 (3.3 %).

Conclusion: This study revealed that the incidence of SSIs was quite lower at the hospital where the study was conducted and different types of antibiotics were used and recommended for prophylaxis.
Evaluation of Assessment as Learning Teaching Strategy among Basic School Teachers in Ghana
Authors: Senyefia Bosson-Amedenu , Eunice Osei-Asibey , Neebo Wiah Eric
Published: May 2020

Teachers are the pivot of Ghana’s new educational reform and their expertise in the use of the recommended assessment strategies need to be evaluated from time to time to enhance teaching and learning. This survey research approach sought to measure the use of Assessment as Learning strategy among basic school teachers in Ghana. The features, strategies and principles underpinning Assessment as Learning strategy formed the basis of the construction of 7 item likert scale with a reliability coefficient of 0.995. A sample size of 100 was computed at 95% confidence interval and randomly selected from the population. With respect to the use of Assessment as Learning strategy, significant differences were found for teaching division, teaching experience and gender. From the findings, the mean difference of 1.281 explains that class teachers demonstrated greater skills (M:3.75, SD:.436) with respect to assessing students in ways that make them reflect on their own work on regular basis through self and peer assessment, than their subject teacher counterparts(M:2.47, SD: 0.507). Also, with a mean difference of 1.526,class teachers (M: 3.59, SD: .496) exhibited higher skills of providing safe environment and support for students to take chances, than their subject teacher counterparts(M:2.06, SD: .246).Again, the absolute mean difference of 1.085 explains that teachers with at least 4 years of teaching experience (M:3.82, SD:.389)demonstrated greater skills with respect to providing for the development of independent learners than their counterparts(M:2.73, SD:0.447) with lesser years of teaching experience. Female teachers (M: 3.90, SD: .303) demonstrated greater skills with respect to providing for the development of independent learners than their male counterparts (M: 2.76, SD: 0.431)with a mean difference of 1.140.The overall performance of the teachers with regards to the Assessment as Learning strategy was found to be 57% using the grand mean as the threshold criterion. The findings provide a basis for Ghana Education Service to provide in-service professional learning training aimed at enhancing teachers’ knowledge of formative assessment with the ultimate goal of enhancing students’ learning and achievement.
Práticas de Multiletramento: uma realidade ainda distante nas escolas contemporâneas
Authors: Florêncio Roberto Remígio , Silva Hanna Moitinho Freire Queiroz , Bonilla Maria Helena Silveira
Published: May 2020

As tecnologias da informação e comunicação (TIC) modificaram nossas relações sociais e interpessoais, ao ponto de se naturalizarem como práticas comunicativas cotidianas em nosso tempo. No entanto, no contexto escolar, as práticas multiletradas que as TIC oferecem ainda estão muito distantes, predominando uma educação de controle, mecanicista e desconectada da realidade atual. Este estudo procura discutir as relações de ensino-aprendizagem efetivadas pela escola contemporânea em relação ao uso dos dispositivos digitais e das TIC, e apresentar criticamente o modo como as instituições de ensino têm desempenhado funções ainda tão tímidas em relação ao uso dessas tecnologias em suas práticas pedagógicas, principalmente na prática textual. Ao analisar os conceitos de texto, hipertexto e hipermídia correlacionados ao multiletramento, notou-se que a compreensão de tecnologia não pode estar na sociedade como incremento à prática educativa, pois esta é a própria prática e os seus aprimoramentos é que devem ser efetuados no exercício de construção e remodelação em sala e fora dela. E, ainda, que práticas tão inerentes e consolidadas da sociedade contemporânea não podem estar afastadas dos debates e das políticas educacionais.
Narrativas e identidades docentes: cultura visual e prática pedagógica
Authors: Lima Laíla Sampaio , Gomes Antenor Rita , Dourado Emanuela Oliveira Carvalho
Published: May 2020

Este trabalho toma como objeto de investigação as narrativas orais de professores para a partir delas entender as trajetórias pessoais e profissionais de inserção na docência. Enfatiza, a partir daí as percepções e utilização dos artefatos visuais nas salas de aula como possibilidade de produção de conhecimento conectado ao mundo contemporâneo das visualidades. Para desenvolvimento do trabalho foi realizada uma pesquisa junto a dois professores da Educação Básica, fazendo uso de entrevistas narrativas de onde se depreende que os docentes optaram pelo magistério por necessidade ou falta de opção e que a utilização das imagens nas salas de aula, embora apresentem avanços, ainda conservam visões restritas à ideia de ilustração dos conteúdos ou elementos dispensáveis/inadequados a depender da área de conhecimento. O artigo tem como objetivo problematizar a trajetória e formação docente a partir de narrativas e como este mesmo percurso se posiciona no trato com as imagens enquanto prática pedagógica inserida no contexto contemporâneo da Cultura Visual.
Encontros e desencontros entre a psicologia e a pedagogia nos processos de inclusão escolar
Authors: Barcellos Luciana Ferreira , Araújo Maria Jaqueline Grammont Machado de
Published: May 2020

Este artigo traz reflexões sobre a atuação de profissionais da saúde e da educação no contexto da política de inclusão em escolas brasileiras, considerando a seguinte questão: qual de fato é o papel do pedagogo e do psicólogo no processo de inclusão escolar? A partir de duas experiências, em diferentes projetos de inclusão escolar de crianças, uma envolvendo estudantes do curso de Psicologia em uma universidade do Rio de Janeiro e outra com estudantes do curso de Pedagogia, em Minas Gerais, a análise recai na discussão sobre as problemáticas que atravessam as práticas no fazer cotidiano de escolas tanto nos seus tensionamentos quanto vislumbrando possibilidades de atuação e de interlocução entre os profissionais de diferentes campos disciplinares, o da pedagogia e o da psicologia. A análise das experiências apresentadas apontam que investir na articulação do trabalho do pedagogo e do psicólogo se mostra fundamental na perspectiva de que um traz subsídios para o trabalho do outro sem superposições ou subalternizações.
Ribonucleotide reductase small subunit M2 is a master driver of aggressive prostate cancer
Authors: Mazzu Ying Z. , Armenia Joshua , Nandakumar Subhiksha , Chakraborty Goutam , Yoshikawa Yuki , Jehane Lina E. , Lee Gwo‐Shu Mary , Atiq Mohammad , Khan Nabeela , Schultz Nikolaus , Kantoff Philip W.
Published: May 2020

Although there are molecularly distinct subtypes of prostate cancer, no molecular classification system is used clinically. The ribonucleotide reductase small subunit M2 (RRM2) gene plays an oncogenic role in many cancers. Our previous study elucidated comprehensive molecular mechanisms of RRM2 in prostate cancer (PC). Given the potent functions of RRM2, we set out to determine whether the RRM2 signature can be used to identify aggressive subtypes of PC. We applied gene ontology and pathway analysis in RNA‐seq datasets from PC cells overexpressing RRM2. We refined the RRM2 signature by integrating it with two molecular classification systems (PCS and PAM50 subtypes) that define aggressive PC subtypes (PCS1 and luminal B) and correlated signatures with clinical outcomes in six published cohorts comprising 4000 cases of PC. Increased expression of genes in the RRM2 signature was significantly correlated with recurrence, high Gleason score, and lethality of PC. Patients with high RRM2 levels showed higher PCS1 score, suggesting the aggressive PC feature. Consistently, RRM2‐regulated genes were highly enriched in the PCS1 signature from multiple PC cohorts. A simplified RRM2 signature (12 genes) was identified by intersecting the RRM2 signature, PCS1 signature, and the PAM50 classifier. Intriguingly, inhibition of RRM2 specifically targets PCS1 and luminal B genes. Furthermore, 11 genes in the RRM2 signature were correlated with enzalutamide resistance by using a single‐cell RNA‐seq dataset from PC circulating tumor cells. Finally, high expression of RRM2 was associated with an immunosuppressive tumor‐immune microenvironment in both primary prostate cancer and metastatic prostate cancer using CIBERSORT analysis and LM22, a validated leukocyte gene signature matrix. These data demonstrate that RRM2 is a driver of aggressive prostate cancer subtypes and contributes to immune escape, suggesting that RRM2 inhibition may be of clinical benefit for patients with PC.
Estimation of Minimally Important Differences and Patient Acceptable Symptom State Scores for the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pain Interference Short Form in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Katz Patricia , Kannowski Carol L. , Sun Luna , Michaud Kaleb
Published: May 2020

Objective

Studies have supported the validity of the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pain Interference (PI) scale in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here, we characterize minimally important differences (MIDs) and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) values.

Methods

PROMIS PI scores were collected in four periods at 6‐month intervals from patients with RA (n > 3200 per period). Both anchor‐ and distribution‐based methods estimated MIDs. Anchors were pain comparisons, pain interference, and general health. Time responses for each anchor‐response group (four administrations, each with three change periods) were averaged. The mean changes of the “somewhat worse” and “somewhat better” groups were used as estimates for MID for worsening and improvement, respectively. Distribution‐based MID analyses used standardized error of measurement (SEM) and SD. PASS was estimated with the question “If your health was to remain for the rest of your life as it has been in the past 48 hours, would this be acceptable?” MIDs and PASS values were also estimated by baseline pain levels.

Results

Anchor‐based methods yielded estimates of 1.65 to 1.84 for worsening and −1.29 to −1.73 for improvement. The SEM estimate was 1.84. The PASS estimate for the entire group was 41.6. Substantial differences in MIDs and PASS were noted among baseline pain groups.

Conclusion

The best estimate of a group‐level MID was approximately 2 points, similar to MIDs suggested in other conditions. The PASS value for the entire group was almost an SD better than the population mean. Results should enhance use of PROMIS PI in RA by facilitating interpretation of scores and changes.
Direct Fabrication of Metallic Microgear via Electrohydrodynamic Inkjet 3D Printing
Authors: Zhang Bin , Lee Hyungdong , Byun Doyoung
Published: May 2020

Microgear is used to transmit power and motion. It is one of the key elements in various microdevices which have been successfully implanted with a wide range of application areas such as microfluidic, medical equipment, and biotechnology. A variety of techniques have been developed to realize both light‐weight and high‐strength microgear manufacturing. However, those techniques often contain hazard substances with many complex procedures. Extreme conditions such as ultrahigh temperature and pressure are also often required. Herein, a direct fabrication of a metallic microgear using electrohydrodynamic inkjet 3D printing with silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) is demonstrated. Both printing resolution and microgear surface morphology are enhanced by controlling printing parameters such as dot diameter and pitch. The microgear with excellent surface finish can be obtained. Its teeth face has an average surface roughness (Ra) of 200 nm after optimization of the printing condition. After the printing process, a post‐thermal curing process with different curing temperatures is conducted to improve its mechanical properties. Finally, the printed microgear has a hardness of 210 MPa and yield stress over 200 MPa due to Ag‐NP aggregation during thermal curing.
Selective Electron Beam Melting of TiAl Alloy: Metallurgical Defects, Tensile Property, and Determination of Process Window
Authors: Yue Hangyu , Peng Hui , Li Ruifeng , Su Yongjun , Zhao Yong , Qi Kai , Chen Yuyong
Published: May 2020

Selective electron beam melting (SEBM) is a promising method to manufacture complex titanium aluminide (TiAl) alloy parts. Herein, the effects of beam current, scanning speed and energy density on surface appearance, porosity, and Al loss of Ti–47Al–2Cr–2Nb alloy samples fabricated by SEBM are investigated systematically. The porosity decreased initially and then increased, and Al loss increased gradually with an increase in beam current. The porosity increased continuously and the Al loss decreased gradually with an increase in scanning velocity. The tensile strength decreased when the porosity of SEBM‐produced TiAl alloy increased. The processing window for Ti–47Al–2Cr–2Nb alloy fabricated by SEBM is determined from the energy density and scanning speed, and the formation mechanisms of small pores and B2 phase precipitation around partially melted powder are explained in detail. The findings provide a valuable reference for fabricating Ti–47Al–2Cr–2Nb alloy by SEBM with a desired surface appearance, porosity and Al loss.
Iridium(I) Complexes with Anionic N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligands as Catalysts for H/D Exchange in Nonpolar Media
Authors: Koneczny Marvin , Phong Ho Luong , Nasr Alexandre , Freytag Matthias , Jones Peter G. , Tamm Matthias
Published: May 2020

A series of neutral iridium(I) complexes of the general type [(WCA−NHC)]IrL(COD)] (COD=1,5‐cyclooctadiene; L=phosphine, pyridine), bearing anionic N‐heterocyclic carbenes (WCA−NHC) with a weakly coordinating anionic (WCA) borate moiety, were prepared by addition of phosphines and pyridine to [(WCA−NHC)]Ir(COD)], in which the available coordination site is stabilized by intramolecular metal‐arene interaction (π‐face donation). The solvent and substrate scope of the neutral complexes as catalysts for H/D exchange was investigated, revealing their suitability for promoting efficient deuteration in nonpolar solvents such as cyclohexane.

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Programmable ROS‐Mediated Cancer Therapy via Magneto‐Inductions
Authors: Wu Jiaojiao , Ning Peng , Gao Rui , Feng Qishuai , Shen Yajing , Zhang Yifan , Li Yingze , Xu Chang , Qin Yao , Plaza Gustavo R. , Bai Qianwen , Fan Xing , Li Zhenguang , Han Yu , Lesniak Maciej S. , Fan Haiming , Cheng Yu
Published: May 2020

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), a group of oxygen derived radicals and derivatives, can induce cancer cell death via elevated oxidative stress. A spatiotemporal approach with safe and deep‐tissue penetration capabilities to elevate the intracellular ROS level is highly desirable for precise cancer treatment. Here, a mechanical‐thermal induction therapy (MTIT) strategy is developed for a programmable increase of ROS levels in cancer cells via assembly of magnetic nanocubes integrated with alternating magnetic fields. The magneto‐based mechanical and thermal stimuli can disrupt the lysosomes, which sequentially induce the dysfunction of mitochondria. Importantly, intracellular ROS concentrations are responsive to the magneto‐triggers and play a key role for synergistic cancer treatment. In vivo experiments reveal the effectiveness of MTIT for efficient eradication of glioma and breast cancer. By remote control of the force and heat using magnetic nanocubes, MTIT is a promising physical approach to trigger the biochemical responses for precise cancer treatment.
A Novel d‐Peptide Identified by Mirror‐Image Phage Display Blocks TIGIT/PVR for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhou Xiuman , Zuo Chao , Li Wanqiong , Shi Weiwei , Zhou Xiaowen , Wang Hongfei , Chen Shaomeng , Du Jiangfeng , Chen Guanyu , Zhai Wenjie , Zhao Wenshan , Wu Yahong , Qi Yuanming , Liu Lei , Gao Yanfeng
Published: May 2020

The low response rate and adaptive resistance of PD‐1/PD‐L1 blockade demands the studies on novel therapeutic targets for cancer immunotherapy. We discovered that a novel immune checkpoint TIGIT expressed higher than PD‐1 in many tumors especially anti‐PD‐1 resistant tumors. Here, mirror‐image phage display bio‐panning was performed using the d‐enantiomer of TIGIT synthesized by hydrazide‐based native chemical ligation. d‐peptide DTBP‐3 was identified, which could occupy the binding interface and effectively block the interaction of TIGIT with its ligand PVR. DTBP‐3 showed proteolytic resistance, tumor tissue penetrating ability, and significant tumor suppressing effects in a CD8+ T cell dependent manner. More importantly, DTBP‐3 could inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in anti‐PD‐1 resistant tumor model. This is the first d‐peptide targeting TIGIT, which could serve as a potential candidate for cancer immunotherapy.
A Glycan Array‐Based Assay for the Identification and Characterization of Plant Glycosyltransferases
Authors: Ruprecht Colin , Bartetzko Max P. , Senf Deborah , Lakhina Anna , Smith Peter J. , Soto Maria J. , Oh Hyunil , Yang Jeong‐Yeh , Chapla Digantkumar , Varon Silva Daniel , Clausen Mads H. , Hahn Michael G. , Moremen Kelley W. , Urbanowicz Breeanna R. , Pfrengle Fabian
Published: May 2020

Growing plants with modified cell wall compositions is a promising strategy to improve resistance to pathogens, increase biomass digestibility, and tune other important properties. In order to alter biomass architecture, a detailed knowledge of cell wall structure and biosynthesis is a prerequisite. We report here a glycan array‐based assay for the high‐throughput identification and characterization of plant cell wall biosynthetic glycosyltransferases (GTs). We demonstrate that different heterologously expressed galactosyl‐, fucosyl‐, and xylosyltransferases can transfer azido‐functionalized sugar nucleotide donors to selected synthetic plant cell wall oligosaccharides on the array and that the transferred monosaccharides can be visualized “on chip” by a 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction with an alkynyl‐modified dye. The opportunity to simultaneously screen thousands of combinations of putative GTs, nucleotide sugar donors, and oligosaccharide acceptors will dramatically accelerate plant cell wall biosynthesis research.
One‐Pot Domino Carbonylation Protocol for Aromatic Diimides toward n‐Type Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Fu Xiaolong , Zhen Yonggang , Ni Zhenjie , Li Yang , Dong Huanli , Siegel Jay S. , Hu Wenping
Published: May 2020

Aromatic diimides are one of the most important chromophores in the construction of n‐type organic semiconductors, which lag far behind their p‐type counterpart but are necessary for ambipolar transistors, p‐n junctions and organic complementary circuits. Herein, we establish a facile one‐pot domino synthetic protocol for aromatic diimides via palladium‐catalyzed carbonylation of tetrabromo aromatic precursors. Taking tetrabromocorannulene (TBrCor) and tetrabromo‐2,7‐di‐tert‐butylpyrene (TBrPy) as the typical examples, we obtained diimide derivatives in yields of about 50 %, one order of magnitude higher than that of the traditional multi‐step diimidization. As demonstrated in the case of corannulene diimide, the efficient diimidization not only allows the LUMO levels to be lowered significantly but also provides an ordered and closer packing structures, opening up possibilities to the development of n‐type semiconducting materials based on a variety of aromatic systems.
DNA‐Edited Ligand Positioning on Red Blood Cells to Enable Optimized T Cell Activation for Adoptive Immunotherapy
Authors: Sun Lele , Shen Fengyun , Xu Jun , Han Xiao , Fan Chunhai , Liu Zhuang
Published: May 2020

Artificial antigen presenting cells (aAPCs) with surface‐anchored T cell activating ligands hold great potential in adoptive immunotherapy. However, it remains challenging to precisely control the ligand positioning on those platforms using conventional bioconjugation chemistry. Utilizing DNA‐assisted bottom‐up self‐assembly, we were able to precisely control both lateral and vertical distributions of T cell activation ligands on red blood cells (RBCs). The clustered lateral positioning of the peptide‐major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) on RBCs with a short vertical distance to the cell membrane is favorable for more effective T cell activation, likely owing to their better mimicry of natural APCs. Such optimized RBC‐based artificial APCs can stimulate T cell proliferation in vivo and effectively inhibit tumor growth with adoptive immunotherapy. DNA technology is thus a unique tool to precisely engineer the cell membrane interface and tune cell–cell interactions, which is promising for applications such as immunotherapy.
Magnetic Multistability in an Anion‐Radical Pimer
Authors: Tuo De‐Hui , Chen Chao , Ruan Huapeng , Wang Qi‐Qiang , Ao Yu‐Fei , Wang Xinping , Wang De‐Xian
Published: May 2020

Radical pimers are the simplest and most important models for studying charge‐transfer processes and provide deep insight into π‐stacked organic materials. Notably, radical pimer systems with magnetic bi‐ or multistability may have important applications in switchable materials, thermal sensors, and information‐storage media. However, no such systems have been reported. Herein, we describe a new pimer consisting of neutral N‐(n‐propyl) benzene triimide ([BTI‐3C]) and its anionic radical ([BTI‐3C]−.) that exhibits rare magnetic multistability. The crystalline pimer was readily synthesized by reduction of BTI‐3C with cobaltocene (CoCp2). The transition occurred with a thermal hysteresis loop that was 27 K wide in the range of 170–220 K, accompanied by a smaller loop with a width of 25 K at 220–242 K. The magnetic multistability was attributed to slippage of the π‐stacked BTI structures and entropy‐driven conformational isomerization of the side propyl chains in the crystalline state during temperature variation.
Selective Catalytic Dehydrogenative Oxidation of Bio‐Polyols to Lactic Acid
Authors: Wu Jiajie , Shen Lingyun , Duan Sai , Chen Zhe‐Ning , Zheng Qingshu , Liu Yaoqi , Sun Zheming , Clark James H. , Xu Xin , Tu Tao
Published: May 2020

The global demand for lactic acid (LA) is increasing due to its successful application as monomer for the manufacture of bioplastics. Although N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) iridium complexes are promising molecular catalysts for LA synthesis, their instabilities have hindered their utilization especially in commercial applications. Here, we report that a porous self‐supported NHC‐iridium coordination polymer can efficiently prevent the clusterization of corresponding NHC‐Ir molecules and can function as a solid molecular recyclable catalyst for dehydrogenation of bio‐polyols to form LA with excellent activity (97 %) and selectivity (>99 %). A turnover number of up to 5700 could be achieved in a single batch, due to the synergistic participation of the Ba2+ and hydroxide ions, as well as the blockage of unwanted pathways by adding methanol. Our findings demonstrate a potential route for the industrial production of LA from cheap and abundant bio‐polyols, including sorbitol.
The Six Isomers of the Cyclohexanol Dimer: A Delicate Test for Dispersion Models
Authors: Juanes Marcos , Usabiaga Imanol , León Iker , Evangelisti Luca , Fernández José A. , Lesarri Alberto
Published: May 2020

The cyclohexanol homodimer acts as a delicate test model of the role of dispersion forces in intermolecular association. Whereas phenol produces a single dimer, the suppression of π interactions and the larger conformational flexibility in cyclohexanol results in multiple isomerism, with six competing dimers of the free molecule being observed in a supersonic jet expansion. Rotational spectroscopy reveals accurate structural data, specifically the formation of homo‐ and heterochiral diastereoisomers and the presence of both equatorial and axial forms in the dimers. Four dispersion‐corrected density‐functional molecular orbital calculations were tested against the experiment, with B3LYP‐D3(BJ) offering good structural reproducibility with an Alrich's triple‐ζ basis set. However, the prediction of the dimer energetics is largely model‐dependent, thus offering a testbed for the validation of dispersion‐corrected computational models.
Quantum Dot‐Catalyzed Photoreductive Removal of Sulfonyl‐Based Protecting Groups
Authors: Perez Kaitlyn A. , Rogers Cameron R. , Weiss Emily A.
Published: May 2020

This Communication describes the use of CuInS2/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) as photocatalysts for the reductive deprotection of aryl sulfonyl‐protected phenols. For a series of aryl sulfonates with electron‐withdrawing substituents, the rate of deprotection for the corresponding phenyl aryl sulfonates increases with decreasing electrochemical potential for the two electron transfers within the catalytic cycle. The rate of deprotection for a substrate that contains a carboxylic acid, a known QD‐binding group, is accelerated by more than a factor of ten from that expected from the electrochemical potential for the transformation, a result that suggests that formation of metastable electron donor–acceptor complexes provides a significant kinetic advantage. This deprotection method does not perturb the common NHBoc or toluenesulfonyl protecting groups and, as demonstrated with an estrone substrate, does not perturb proximate ketones, which are generally vulnerable to many chemical reduction methods used for this class of reactions.
CuII/TEMPO‐Catalyzed Enantioselective C(sp3)–H Alkynylation of Tertiary Cyclic Amines through Shono‐Type Oxidation
Authors: Gao Pei‐Sen , Weng Xin‐Jun , Wang Zhen‐Hua , Zheng Chao , Sun Bing , Chen Zhi‐Hao , You Shu‐Li , Mei Tian‐Sheng
Published: May 2020

A novel strategy for asymmetric Shono‐type oxidative cross‐coupling has been developed by merging copper catalysis and electrochemistry, affording C1‐alkynylated tetrahydroisoquinolines with good to excellent enantioselectivity. The use of TEMPO as a co‐catalytic redox mediator is crucial not only for oxidizing a tetrahydroisoquinoline to an iminium ion species but also for decreasing the oxidation potential of the reaction. A novel bisoxazoline ligand is also reported.
Chemical‐Reductant‐Free Electrochemical Deuteration Reaction using Deuterium Oxide
Authors: Liu Xu , Liu Ruoyu , Qiu Jiaxing , Cheng Xu , Li Guigen
Published: May 2020

We report a method for the electrochemical deuteration of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds under catalyst‐ and external‐reductant‐free conditions, with deuteration rates as high as 99 % and yields up to 91 % in 2 h. The use of graphite felt for both the cathode and the anode was key to ensuring chemoselectivity and high deuterium incorporation under neutral conditions without the need for an external reductant. This method has a number of advantages over previously reported deuteration reactions that use stoichiometric metallic reductants. Mechanistic experiments showed that O2 evolution at the anode not only eliminates the need for an external reductant but also regulates the pH of the reaction mixture, keeping it approximately neutral.
Stereoselective Electro‐2‐deoxyglycosylation from Glycals
Authors: Liu Miao , Liu Kai‐Meng , Xiong De‐Cai , Zhang Hanyu , Li Tian , Li Bohan , Qin Xianjin , Bai Jinhe , Ye Xin‐Shan
Published: May 2020

We report a novel and highly stereoselective electro‐2‐deoxyglycosylation from glycals. This method features excellent stereoselectivity, scope, and functional‐group tolerance. This process can also be applied to the modification of a wide range of natural products and drugs. Furthermore, a scalable synthesis of glycosylated podophyllotoxin and a one‐pot trisaccharide synthesis through iterative electroglycosylations were achieved.
Rapid Capillary‐Assisted Solution Printing of Perovskite Nanowire Arrays Enables Scalable Production of Photodetectors
Authors: Pan Shuang , Zou Haiyang , Wang Aurelia C. , Wang Zewei , Yu Jiwoo , Lan Chuntao , Liu Qiliang , Wang Zhong Lin , Lian Tianquan , Peng Juan , Lin Zhiqun
Published: May 2020

Despite recent progress in producing perovskite nanowires (NWs) for optoelectronics, it remains challenging to solution‐print an array of NWs with precisely controlled position and orientation. Herein, we report a robust capillary‐assisted solution printing (CASP) strategy to rapidly access aligned and highly crystalline perovskite NW arrays. The key to the CASP approach lies in the integration of capillary‐directed assembly through periodic nanochannels and solution printing through the programmably moving substrate to rapidly guide the deposition of perovskite NWs. The growth kinetics of perovskite NWs was closely examined by in situ optical microscopy. Intriguingly, the as‐printed perovskite NWs array exhibit excellent optical and optoelectronic properties and can be conveniently implemented for the scalable fabrication of photodetectors.