bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The diet of otters (Lutra lutra) on the Agri river system, one of the most important presence sites in Italy: a molecular approach
Authors: Buglione Maria , Petrelli Simona , Troiano Claudia , Notomista Tommaso , Rivieccio Eleonora , Fulgione Domenico
Published: July 2020

Background

The Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) underwent a strong decline in large areas of the Central-Western part of its distribution range, during the second half of the twentieth century. In Italy, only residual fragmented nuclei survive in the Central-Southern part of the peninsula. Nowadays, the otter is one of the most endangered mammals in Italy, and increasing the knowledge about the ecology of this species is a key step in defining fitting management strategies. Here we provide information about the diet of otter on the Agri river system, one of the most important presence sites in Italy, to understand both the species’ food requirements and the impact on fish communities.

Methods

DNA metabarcoding and High Throughput Sequencing were used on DNA extracted from spraints. We amplified DNA with a primer set for vertebrates, focusing efforts on the bulk of the otter’s diet (fishes and amphibians).

Results

Our findings showed that the diet of the otter was dominated by cyprinids (97.77%, and 99.14% of fishes), while amphibians represented 0.85% of the sequences analyzed. Results are in general accordance with previous studies based on morphological characterization; however, molecular analyses allow the resolving of some morphological uncertainties. Although the study area offers a very wide range of available prey, the diet of the otters shows marked selectivity. We highlighted a variation in prey consumed, in accordance with the typology of water system (i.e., river, lake, tributary). Some of the preys found in the diet were alien species introduced by man for sport fishing. Our findings could help define strategies useful for the conservation of the otter population in Southern Italy, suggesting management actions directed at avoiding fish community alterations through illegal stockings without severe controls on their taxonomic status. These introductions could result in a general reduction in the diversity of the otter’s preys, affecting its predatory behavior.
Repellency Effect of Prepared Neem Tree Leaves Smoke against Mosquito
Authors: Jibrin M. M. , Mohammed A. D.
Published: July 2020

The study was design to evaluate the smoke repellency effect of prepared neem leaves, against mosquito. The dried neem powder was used for making the insecticide, 10 g of powdered leaves sample was weight into a 200 ml beaker, and 5.0 g of starch was weight and added to the leave sample in the beaker. The mixture was stirred and 5.0 ml of distilled water was added gradually to the mixture in little quantity while stirring. The beaker with wet insecticide mixture was dried in an oven until a constant weight was obtained. The prepared neem insecticide was distributed among the households to use at night, to substitute synthetic insecticides. The users were randomly selected within the study area. The data was collected based on the time of application, number of bites receive before and after the application this was done based on 0-5 rating scale. The result revealed that the prepared insecticide is 100% effective though the effectiveness is dependent to time taken after application. The questionnaire was also used to assess the view of the users on the adverse effect they experienced upon the exposure to neem tree leaves prepared sample. The study has been concluded that neem leaves smoke is effective in repelling mosquito, and it can be an alternative to the synthetic insecticides hence it is safe for the users and the environment.
Response of Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.) to Several Nitrogen Levels during Kharif (Autumn) Season in New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal
Authors: Saha Rumi , Sana Megha , Pal Subhajit , Mondal Krishnendu , Pal Sukanta
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important staple foods for more than half of the world’s population

Aim: To find out the most suitable nitrogen level for hybrid rice productivity in new alluvial zone of west Bengal.

Study Design: The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with 10 treatment combinations and three replicates.

Place and Duration of Study: Kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019 at Regional-Research Sub-Station (RRSS) Chakdaha of BCKV under new alluvial zone of West Bengal.

Methods: Combinations having two hybrid rice varieties viz., V1 (PAN 2112 Gold), V2 (KRH-2) and five nitrogen levels viz. N1 (0:60:60 N: P2O5: K2O Kg ha-1), N2 (50:60:60 N: P2O5: K2O Kg ha-1), N3 (100:60:60 N: P2O5: K2O Kg ha-1), N4 (150:60:60 N: P2O5: K2O Kg ha-1), N5 (200:60:60 N: P2O5: K2O Kg ha-1) Generally, yield contributing characters were studied at maturity of the crop. For yield analysis samples were taken from each plot and yield attributes were calculated.

Results: Results revealed that almost all yield attributes gave significantly superior performance in the variety PAN 2112 Gold with N4 level of fertilization. The maximum grain yield (5.10 t ha-1) was recorded in the variety V1 in combination with N4 level of nitrogen which was 6.69% more than KRH-2. Highest harvest index (50.86%) was noticed in same treatment combination.

Conclusion: It may be concluded that PAN 2112 Gold with fertilizer dose N: P2O5: K2O 150:60:60 Kg ha-1 can be recommended for South Bengal locations contributing to a yield of 5.10 t ha-1 as an Aman crop.
Development and Organoleptic Evaluation of Foxtail and Proso Flakes Incorporated Energy Dense Snack Bar
Authors: Sohan S. Zubeda , Kumari B. Anila , Suneetha W. Jessie , Gayatri Biradar
Published: July 2020

Nowadays, demand and aspiration for nutritionally balanced snacks that are palatable, portable, convenient is high. Increasing demand from consumers for nutritious snacks has provoked the researcher to develop food bars that are nutritious and convenient. The bar was  developed with the flakes of millets like foxtail (Setaria italica) and proso (Panicum miliaceum) along with other ingredients like jaggery, liquid glucose, skimmed milk powder, cocoa powder, dates, flax seeds, sesame seeds, groundnuts and soya granules. With different incorporation, four combination millet snack bars prepared were 50%, 60%, 70% and 80% of foxtail and proso flakes. The most acceptable was 50% millet flakes bar by the semi - trained panellist.
A extraordinária odisseia do comerciante Ijebu que foi escravo no Brasil e homem livre na França (1820-1842)
Authors: Santana Aderivaldo Ramos de
Published: July 2020

Este artigo reconstrói a trajetória de vida do comerciante ijebu Osifekunde, com base nos documentos encontrados nos arquivos brasileiros e franceses, utilizando a metodologia da micro-história, com ênfase na redução de escala, que possibilitou relacionar diversos registros a partir de nomes. O texto está dividido em três momentos: uma parte dedicada ao contexto africano, relacionando-o com a história do tráfico de escravos, principalmente entre os anos 1820 e 1830, pano de fundo que possibilita entender as circunstâncias de sua captura; uma segunda, que se concentra na trajetória pessoal de seu segundo proprietário; e uma última parte, subdivida em duas, em que se demonstra como Osifekunde se tornou um homem livre na França e de que maneira o seu retorno ao Brasil fazia parte de sua estratégia de negociação para garantir a liberdade e obter melhores condições de trabalho.

Palavras-chave:  Biografia - África - escravidão - liberdade - Pernambuco oitocentista.

Abstract 

This article reconstructs the life trajectory of the Ijebu man named Osifekunde, based on documents found in Brazilian and French archives, using micro-history methodology, with an enphasis on scale reduction, which made it possible to link personal names in several different records. The article is divided in three parts: one dedicated to the African context, relating it to the history of the slave trade, mainly between 1820 and 1830, making it possible to understand the circumstances of his capture; a second part concentrates in the life trajextory of his first owner; and a last part, divided in two, in which it is shown how Osifekunte became a free man in France and how his return to Brazil was part and parcel of a negotiation strategy to garantee his freedom and obtain better work conditions.

Keywords: Biography - Africa - freedom - 19th-Century Pernambuco
A emergência da política interseccional de saúde no Brasil: perspectivas sobre raça e gênero
Authors: Santos Sônia Beatriz dos
Published: July 2020

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A necessidade de uma bússola moral
Authors: Marcondes Danilo
Published: July 2020

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De Pai João ao Crioulo Dudu
Authors: Martins Franklin
Published: July 2020

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Memórias do cativeiro, jongo e cidadania em Pinheiral
Authors: Simonard Pedro , Borges Ana Carolina Silva
Published: July 2020

O território jongueiro de Pinheiral é conhecido em todo o Brasil pelo seu jongo e pelas atividades socioeducativas que buscam preservar e transmitir as tradições afro-brasileiras dos habitantes dessa cidade, além de trabalhar a autoestima de jovens e adultos. A memória do tempo do cativeiro na cidade de Pinheiral vem sendo construída pelas lideranças jongueiras a partir da seleção e da valorização de certos elementos, sendo utilizada como uma ferramenta para combater a exclusão social, desenvolver uma nova identidade performativa e estratégias políticas e sociais que busquem garantir os direitos políticos e o acesso a políticas de reparação. Para que isso aconteça, a escravidão é constantemente redefinida e ressemantizada, tornando-se uma fonte de orgulho para os descendentes dos escravizados. O jongo é o ponto de partida para que todas essas ações ocorram. Os jongueiros de Pinheiral conseguiram organizar um ponto de cultura no qual montaram uma estrutura que lhes permite realizar seus projetos.

Palavras-chave: Jongo - escravidão - memória - ação afirmativa - tradição.
Marinheiros, moleques e Heróis: alguns personagens da capoeira do Maranhão de fins do Século XIX (1880-1900)
Authors: Pereira Roberto Augusto A.
Published: July 2020

Este artigo busca, a partir da análise de indícios da presença da capoeira no Maranhão nas duas últimas décadas do século XIX, traçar um breve e inicial panorama dessa prática no Estado, entre 1880-1900. Discute, ainda, partindo de um paralelo com a capoeira do Rio de Janeiro e da Bahia do mesmo período, algumas similaridades e diferenças dessa prática nesses locais.

Palavras-chave: capoeira - Maranhão - século XIX.
O culto dos mortos da nobre nação de Benguela na experiência devocional do Rosário dos Homens Pretos São João del-Rei, MG (1793-1850)
Authors: Delfino Leonara Lacerda
Published: July 2020

Este artigo se propõe a analisar os significados da liturgia da morte católica, redimensionada pela Nobre Nação de Benguela, reinado desenvolvido no interior da Irmandade do Rosário de São João del-Rei, com o objetivo de potencializar a caridade aos seus irmãos mortos de nação. Por meio da encomendação de sufrágios para o livramento dos seus parentes das penas do purgatório, difundiu-se, nesse reinado, uma devoção peculiar às almas milagrosas, reconhecidas nas almas dos parentes de nação filiados à Nobre Nação. Ao longo da exposição, apresenta-se a herança da ancestralidade centro-africana, enquanto elemento dinâmico capaz de fornecer suportes para a reconstituição de identidades atlânticas. Para isso, utilizamos o Livro de Missas da Nobre Nação, os depoimentos testamentários, os assentos de óbitos, os relatos de missionários e a documentação confrarial da Irmandade.

Palavras-chave: ancestralidade - diáspora atlântica - identidades e liturgia da morte.
Colonialismo tardio e política de povoamento: o colonato do Sábiè e a expropriação de terras dos camponeses africanos, 1956-1974
Authors: Filipe Eleusio Viegas
Published: July 2020

Este artigo analisa o estabelecimento de colonos portugueses no Vale do Sábiè e o papel desempenhado pelas autoridades coloniais na ocupação de terras pelos colonos brancos e o reassentamento da população africana. Demonstra que, com o estabelecimento dos colonos brancos no Vale do Sábiè entre 1955 e 1974, muitos camponeses africanos locais foram expulsos das suas terras ancestrais e forçados a fixar-se em terras de sequeiro que dependiam das chuvas para agricultura e em terras baixas que inundavam com frequência destruindo as suas culturas alimentares.

 Palavras-chave: povoamento colonial - colonatos - expropriação de terras - conflitos de terras -  economia camponesa.

 
As artes e os ofícios de um letrado afro-diaspórico: Eliseu César (1871-1923)
Authors: Domingues Petrônio , Rocha Solange Pereira da , Flores Elio Chaves
Published: July 2020

O artigo reconstitui fragmentos da vida de Eliseu Elias César (1871-1923), um intelectual afro-diaspórico que circulou por diferentes regiões do Brasil. Em todas elas, manteve uma vida profissional polivalente, desenvolvendo seus “talentos” como advogado, jornalista, político, poeta e orador. Procura-se destacar as experiências proativas de um negro que se apropriou das “artes de dizer” pela escrita e oralidade, assim como pela ação política e agência associativa, travando embates na esfera pública e participando de governo e grupos republicanos. A trajetória de Eliseu César sugere a importância de revisitar as interpretações históricas que subestimaram ou mesmo negligenciaram o papel do negro na cena histórica republicana. Assim, ao descortinar e problematizar aspectos da vida desse personagem, o artigo procura lançar luz sobre as complexidades, tensões, lutas e ambiguidades relacionadas à afirmação da cidadania negra no Brasil pós-abolição.
Religião, política, guerra e mulheres (Congo e Angola, séculos XVI e XVII)
Authors: Guedes Roberto
Published: July 2020

Resenha de:HEYWOOD, Linda M. Jinga de Angola, a rainha guerreira da África. Tradução de Pedro Maia Soares. São Paulo: Todavia, 2019. 320p.SOUZA, Marina de Mello e. Além do visível: poder, catolicismo e comércio no Congo e em Angola (séculos XVI e XVII). São Paulo: Edusp/Fapesp, 2018. 320p.
Highly Filled Glycerol/Graphite Suspensions as Fluidic Soft Sensors and Their Responsive Mechanism to Shear
Authors: Zhou Tianyu , Guo Baohua , Xu Jun
Published: July 2020

The conductive suspensions composed of high content of graphite flakes dispersed in glycerol demonstrate flow field sensitive resistance and memory effect of the deformation history, which are expected to work as new fluidic soft sensors. The resistance of the suspensions responds to the local flow field caused by vibrations, stretching, and shear. The combined electro‐rheo tests are carried out to reveal the resistance response to different types of flow field. Based on the variations of resistance, a microstructural model considering the direction of the flow field and the corresponding transition kinetics of the different microstructures of fillers are established in the present work. The contents of the microstructures vary with both the shear strain and the shear direction and the transition rate between the different microstructures depended on the shear rate. The unveiled mechanism via the proposed model is expected to deepen the understanding of conductive suspensions so as to further guide the design of soft sensors based on conductive suspensions and composites.
Ink‐Based Additive Nanomanufacturing of Functional Materials for Human‐Integrated Smart Wearables
Authors: Xu Shujia , Wu Wenzhuo
Published: July 2020

The economical, agile, customizable manufacturing, and integration of multifunctional device modules into networked systems with mechanical compliance and robustness enable unprecedented human‐integrated smart wearables and usher in exciting opportunities in emerging technologies. The additive manufacturing (AM) processes have emerged as potential candidates for rapid prototyping printed devices with diversified functionalities, e.g., energy harvesting/storage, sensing, actuation, and computation. However, there are few review reports about the ink‐based additive nanomanufacturing of functional materials for human‐integrated smart wearables. To fill this gap, herein, the recent progress in ink‐based additive nanomanufacturing technologies, focusing on their capability and potential for producing wearable human‐integrated devices, is reviewed. The manufacturing process integration, functional materials, device implementation, and application performance issues in designing and implementing the ink‐based additively nanomanufactured wearable systems are thoroughly discussed. The recent printed devices focusing on the processing conditions and performance metrics are comprehensively reviewed. Finally, the vision and outlook for the challenges and opportunities associated with related topics are provided. The rapid progress achieved in related disciplines enables more capable smart human‐integrated wearable systems that can be fully printed with rapid, agile, reconfigurable, and smart AM platforms.
Recommendations of the 5th Canadian Consensus Conference on the diagnosis and treatment of dementia
Authors: Ismail Zahinoor , Black Sandra E. , Camicioli Richard , Chertkow Howard , Herrmann Nathan , Laforce Robert , Montero‐Odasso Manuel , Rockwood Kenneth , Rosa‐Neto Pedro , Seitz Dallas , Sivananthan Saskia , Smith Eric E. , Soucy Jean‐Paul , Vedel Isabelle , Gauthier Serge ,   the CCCDTD5 participants
Published: July 2020

Since 1989, four Canadian Consensus Conferences on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia (CCCDTD) have provided evidence‐based dementia guidelines for Canadian clinicians and researchers. We present the results of the 5th CCCDTD, which convened in October 2019, to address topics chosen by the steering committee to reflect advances in the field, and build on previous guidelines. Topics included: (1) utility of the National Institute on Aging research framework for clinical Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis; (2) updating diagnostic criteria for vascular cognitive impairment, and its management; (3) dementia case finding and detection; (4) neuroimaging and fluid biomarkers in diagnosis; (5) use of non‐cognitive markers of dementia for better dementia detection; (6) risk reduction/prevention; (7) psychosocial and non‐pharmacological interventions; and (8) deprescription of medications used to treat dementia. We hope the guidelines are useful for clinicians, researchers, policy makers, and the lay public, to inform a current and evidence‐based approach to dementia.
Development of a completely recyclable glass fiber‐reinforced epoxy thermoset composite
Authors: Lejeail Matthieu , Fischer Hartmut R.
Published: July 2020

Stimulated by the growing demand for more sustainable polymer systems, experiments were performed to develop completely recyclable epoxy‐based thermoset composite materials involving the separation, recovery, and complete reuse of both components of the composite, the resin and the fibers. In this study, a possibility to design such composites by incorporation of reversible chemistry for dedicated repair and recycling is demonstrated. Relying on Diels–Alder (DA) adducts located on the cross‐links between the polymeric chains, uncross‐linking the thermoset via the reverse DA reactions becomes possible. The network breaks up at elevated temperatures in shorter segments, which can be solubilized in solvents like acetic acid, butan‐1‐ol, or toluene. Specific processes for each of these solvents were developed to recover the resin and fibers with virtually unchanged properties. Both components were used in a second manufacturing step to produce recycled composites which display properties comparable with the original composites.
Anti‐Parkinson's Disease Function of Dioscin‐Zein‐Carboxymethyl Cellulose Nanocomplex in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: de Guzman Arvie Camille V. , Razzak Md. Abdur , Purevdulam Batmagnai , Choi Shin Sik
Published: July 2020

Nanosized dioscin‐loaded zein‐CMC (DZC) complex comprising dioscin (glycoside saponin), zein (corn protein), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is fabricated through anti‐solvent coprecipitation. The optimized ratio of zein to CMC for the homogenous complexation is 5:1, and DZC maintains its stability in a wide range of pH (3.0–8.0) and ionic strength (0–50 mm NaCl). No biological toxicity of DZC is found in Caenorhabditis elegans with a normal lifespan and body size. Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the loss of dopamine (DA) and dopaminergic neurons. In cat‐2 mutant with defective biosynthesis of DA, DZC‐fed animals show intact DA behaviors including basal slowing response (≈60%) and alcohol avoidance (≈80%). Such DA promotional effects are a result of the enhanced expression/activation of DA transporter, DAT‐1 in DA neurons. Taken together, DZC has a potential for preventing PD as an oral‐administered drugs and supplements.
Correlation between 3D‐QCA based FFR and quantitative lumen assessment by IVUS for left main coronary artery stenoses
Authors: Tomaniak Mariusz , Masdjedi Kaneshka , van Zandvoort Laurens J , Neleman Tara , Tovar Forero Maria N , Vermaire Alise , Kochman Janusz , Kardys Isabella , den Dekker Wijnand , Wilschut Jeroen , Diletti Roberto , de Jaegere Peter , Van Mieghem Nicolas M , Zijlstra Felix , Daemen Joost
Published: July 2020

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using three dimensional‐quantitative coronary angiography (3D‐QCA) based fractional flow reserve (FFR) (vessel fractional flow reserve [vFFR], CAAS8.1, Pie Medical Imaging) and to correlate vFFR values with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) for the evaluation of intermediate left main coronary artery (LMCA) stenosis.

Background

3D‐QCA derived FFR indices have been recently developed for less invasive functional lesion assessment. However, LMCA lesions were vastly under‐represented in first validation studies.

Methods

This observational single‐center cohort study enrolled consecutive patients with stable angina, unstable angina, or non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction and nonostial, intermediate grade LMCA stenoses who underwent IVUS evaluation. vFFR was computed based on two angiograms with optimal LMCA stenosis projection and correlated with IVUS‐derived minimal lumen area (MLA).

Results

A total of 256 patients with intermediate grade LMCA stenosis evaluated with IVUS were screened for eligibility; 147 patients met the clinical inclusion criteria and had a complete IVUS LMCA footage available, of them, 63 patients (63 lesions) underwent 3D‐QCA and vFFR analyses. The main reason for screening failure was insufficient quality of the angiogram (51 patients,60.7%). Mean age was 65 ± 11 years, 75% were male. Overall, mean MLA within LMCA was 8.77 ± 3.17 mm2, while mean vFFR was 0.87 ± 0.09. A correlation was observed between vFFR and LMCA MLA (r = .792, p = .001). The diagnostic accuracy of vFFR ≤0.8 in identifying lesions with MLA < 6.0 mm2 (sensitivity 98%, specificity 71.4%, area under the curve (AUC) 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.89–1.00, p = .001) was good.

Conclusions

In patients with good quality angiographic visualization of LMCA and available complete LMCA IVUS footage, 3D‐QCA based vFFR assessment of LMCA disease correlates well to LMCA MLA as assessed by IVUS.
Myasthenia gravis therapy with individualized homeopathy: A case report
Authors: Văcăraș Vitalie , Nistor Cristina , Rahovan Imelda , Văcăraş Cristiana , Vithoulkas George
Published: July 2020

We present a 61‐year‐old man with severe myasthenia gravis, nonresponsive to conventional therapy. The patient was treated with individualized homeopathy, demonstrating significant improvement on his clinical status and no disease symptoms.
Synthesis of (−)‐Dihydroraputindole D by Enantioselective Benzoylation of a 1,3‐Diol Intermediate
Authors: Fresia Marvin , Kock Mario , Lindel Thomas
Published: July 2020

The enantioselective synthesis of (−)‐dihydroraputindole D is reported. The key step is the desymmetrizing benzoylation of a prochiral 1,3‐diol employing Trost′s ProPhenol catalyst system, which has been applied for the first time to a cyclic molecule carrying geminal hydroxymethyl groups. The cyclopenta[f]indoline system was assembled by Au(I)‐catalyzed cyclization of an alkynylated indoline precursor. (−)‐Dihydroraputindole D was obtained in 17 steps and 8% overall yield starting from dihydroxyacetone. In combination with quantum chemical calculations of the ECD spectra, our synthesis allowed us to determine the absolute configuration (5S,7R) of the natural product (+)‐raputindole D from the Rutaceous plant Raputia simulans.
Quantifying the Overall Efficiency of Circularly Polarized Emitters
Authors: Arrico Lorenzo , Di Bari Lorenzo , Zinna Francesco
Published: July 2020

An increasing number of circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) molecular emitters has been developed in recent years and many of them are intended for applications in which high overall CPL efficiencies are required. In order to have a complete picture of the efficiency of a CPL emitter, dissymmetry factor (glum) is not enough. In the following we propose a new quantity, named CPL brightness (BCPL), which takes into account absorption extinction coefficient and quantum yield along with the glum factor. We calculated BCPL value for more than 180 compounds reported in the literature and we analyse data distribution for the main classes of CPL molecular emitters. This tool can be employed to put into context new CPL active compounds and to direct the choice of molecular systems for specific CPL applications.
Insights into the Two‐Electron Reductive Process of [FeFe]H2ase Biomimetics: Cyclic Voltammetry and DFT Investigation on Chelate Control of Redox Properties of [Fe2(CO)4(κ2‐Chelate)(μ‐Dithiolate)]
Authors: Arrigoni Federica , Elleouet Catherine , Mele Andrea , Pétillon François Y. , De Gioia Luca , Schollhammer Philippe , Zampella Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

The electrochemical reduction of complexes [Fe2(CO)4(κ2‐phen)(μ‐xdt)] (phen=1,10‐phenanthroline; xdt=pdt (1), adtiPr (2)) in MeCN‐[Bu4N][PF6] 0.2 m is described as a two‐reduction process. DFT calculations show that 1 and its monoreduced form 1− display metal‐ and phenanthroline‐centered frontier orbitals (LUMO and SOMO) indicating the non‐innocence of the phenanthroline ligand. Two energetically close geometries were found for the doubly reduced species suggesting an intriguing influence of the phenanthroline ligand leading to the cleavage of a Fe−S bond as proposed generally for this type of complex or retaining the electron density and avoiding Fe−S cleavage. Extension of calculations to other complexes with edt, adtiPr bridge and even virtual species [Fe2(CO)4(κ2‐phen)(μ‐adtR)] (R=CH(CF3)2, H) or [Fe2(CO)4(κ2‐phen)(μ‐pdtR)] (R=CH(CF3)2, iPr) showed that the relative stability between both two‐electron‐reduced isomers depends on the nature of the bridge and the possibility to establish a remote anagostic interaction between the iron center {Fe(CO)3} and the group carried by the bridged‐head atom of the dithiolate group.
Multiwalled CNTs for Cr(VI) removal from industrial wastewater: An advanced study on adsorption, kinetics, thermodynamics for the comparison between the embedded and non‐embedded carboxyl group
Authors: Verma Bharti , Goel Shreyank , Balomajumder Chandrajit
Published: July 2020

The adsorption capabilities of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with and without the embedded carboxyl group for the removal of parts per million levels of hexavalent chromium were examined as a function of several parameters, namely contact time, pH of initial solution, initial concentration of Cr(VI), adsorbent dosage as well as temperature of solution. Adsorption isotherms have been utilized to explain the adsorption mechanism. Ion exchange, intra‐particle diffusion, and electrostatic interactions are found to be the fundamental mechanisms describing the adsorption of Cr(VI). The maximum adsorption capacities of Cr(VI) ion by raw MWCNTs and functionalized MWCNTs were found to be 84.75 and 78.13 mg · g−1, respectively, as calculated by the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. This is with regard to the electron‐rich atoms inside the functional group which repels the negatively charged dichromate ions. Kinetic studies were performed, and the data was found in good agreement with the pseudo‐second‐order.
Diagnosis and treatment of transthyretin‐related amyloidosis cardiomyopathy
Authors: Teng Catherine , Li Pengyang , Bae Ju Young , Pan Su , Dixon Richard A. F. , Liu Qi
Published: July 2020

Transthyretin‐related amyloidosis (ATTR) is a subgroup of amyloidosis that results from extracellular misassembled and toxic amyloid deposits affecting multiple organ systems, and cardiac tissues in particular. Because ATTR often presents as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), it has been largely underdiagnosed. Once considered incurable with a grave prognosis, ATTR cardiomyopathy has seen the development of promising alternatives for diagnosis and treatment, with early diagnosis and treatment of ATTR cardiomyopathy highly beneficial due to its high mortality rate. For instance, diagnosing ATTR cardiomyopathy previously required a cardiac biopsy, but new modalities, such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and radionuclide bone scans, show promise in accurately diagnosing ATTR cardiomyopathy. Ongoing research and clinical trials have focused on identifying new treatments which primarily target amyloid fiber formation by inhibiting TTR gene expression, stabilizing the TTR tetramer, preventing oligomer aggregation, or affecting degradation of amyloid fibers. In this review, we describe the advances made in the diagnosis and treatment of ATTR in order to increase awareness of the disease and encourage a lower threshold for ATTR workup. Our review also highlights the need for improving the screening, diagnosis, and treatment guidelines for ATTR cardiomyopathy.
The brain of the African wild dog.IV. The visual system
Authors: Chengetanai Samson , Bhagwandin Adhil , Bertelsen Mads F. , Hård Therese , Hof Patrick R. , Spocter Muhammad A. , Manger Paul R.
Published: July 2020

The variegated pelage and social complexity of the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) hint at the possibility of specializations of the visual system. Here, using a range of architectural and immunohistochemical stains, we describe the systems‐level organization of the image‐forming, nonimage forming, oculomotor, and accessory optic, vision‐associated systems in the brain of one representative individual of the African wild dog. For all of these systems, the organization, in terms of location, parcellation and topology (internal and external), is very similar to that reported in other carnivores. The image‐forming visual system consists of the superior colliculus, visual dorsal thalamus (dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus, pulvinar and lateral posterior nucleus) and visual cortex (occipital, parietal, suprasylvian, temporal and splenial visual regions). The nonimage forming visual system comprises the suprachiasmatic nucleus, ventral lateral geniculate nucleus, pretectal nuclear complex and the Edinger–Westphal nucleus. The oculomotor system incorporates the oculomotor, trochlear and abducens cranial nerve nuclei as well as the parabigeminal nucleus, while the accessory optic system includes the dorsal, lateral and medial terminal nuclei. The extent of similarity to other carnivores in the systems‐level organization of these systems indicates that the manner in which these systems process visual information is likely to be consistent with that found, for example, in the well‐studied domestic cat. It would appear that the sociality of the African wild dog is dependent upon the processing of information extracted from the visual system in the higher‐order cognitive and affective neural systems.
Work‐life balance and corporate social responsibility: The evaluation of gender differences on the relationship between family‐friendly psychological climate and altruistic behaviors at work
Authors: Álvarez‐Pérez María Dolores , Carballo‐Penela Adolfo , Rivera‐Torres Pilar
Published: July 2020

Work‐life balance issues are very important for those companies interested in Corporate Social Responsibility. Using a sample of 511 Spanish employees, this work examines the effect of family‐friendly psychological climate (FFPC) on altruism through job satisfaction. It also considers the moderating effect of gender on the studied relationships. The results obtained through structural equation analysis show (1) a positive association between FFPC and altruistic behaviors of employees; (2) that job satisfaction mediates the relationship between the perceptions of managerial support and altruism and (3) that the perception of managerial support directly leads to the development of altruistic behaviors in the case of women and, in the case of men, only when this support affects satisfaction. These findings have some managerial implications. For instance, firms interested in promoting altruistic behaviors among their employees could incorporate into the performance appraisal system the assessment of managers' assistance to employees.
Recent Advances in Carboxylation of Furoic Acid into 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid: Pathways towards Bio‐Based Polymers
Authors: Drault Fabien , Snoussi Youssef , Paul Sébastien , Itabaiana Ivaldo , Wojcieszak Robert
Published: July 2020

2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is one of the most important bio‐sourced building blocks and several routes have been reported for its synthesis. FDCA is presumed to be an ideal green alternative to terephthalate, which is one of the predominant monomers in polymer industry. This Minireview concerns the synthesis of FDCA by using various carboxylation reactions and discusses the synthesis of FDCA starting from furoic acid and CO2 and using different catalytic and stoichiometric processes. This process is of high interest, as it avoids the glucose isomerization step and selectivity issues observed during the 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural oxidation step of the current alternative route to FDCA. Discussion focuses on the main parameters that govern selectivity and activity in the carboxylation processes. Moreover, various previously described processes, such as the Henkel reaction and enzymatic, homogeneous catalytic, and photoelectrocatalytic processes, are also discussed.
What Fluorine Can Do in CO2 Chemistry: Applications from Homogeneous to Heterogeneous Systems
Authors: Chen Hao , Yang Zhenzhen , Do‐Thanh Chi‐Linh , Dai Sheng
Published: July 2020

CO2 chemistry including capture and fixation has attracted great attention towards the aim of reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and CO2 accumulation in the atmosphere. “CO2‐philic” materials are required to achieve good performance owing to the intrinsic properties of the CO2 molecule, that is, thermodynamic stability and kinetic inertness. In this respect, fluorinated materials have been deployed in CO2 capture (physical and chemical pathway) or fixation (thermo‐ and electrocatalytic procedure) with good performances, including homogeneous (e. g., ionic liquids and small organic molecules) and heterogeneous counterparts (e. g., carbons, porous organic polymers, covalent triazine frameworks, metal–organic frameworks, and membranes). In this Minireview, these works are summarized and analyzed from the aspects of (1) the strategy used for fluorine introduction, (2) characterization of the targeted materials, (3) performance of the fluorinated systems in CO2 chemistry, and comparison with the nonfluorinated counterparts, (4) the role of fluorinated functionalities in the working procedure, and (5) the relationship between performance and structural/electronic properties of the materials. The systematic summary in this Minireview will open new opportunities in guiding the design of “CO2‐philic” materials and pave the way to stimulate further progress in this field.
Robust three‐factor authentication protocol for satellite communication systems
Authors: Chen Yulei , Chen Jianhua
Published: July 2020

The rapid development of satellite communications has brought great convenience to people's lives, as well as huge security challenges. In order to guarantee the security of users, a large number of authentication protocols have been proposed. Recently, Xu et al. proposed an improved mutual authentication protocol based on perfect forward secrecy for satellite communications. In this paper, we will point out that Xu et al.'s protocol cannot resist the offline password guessing attack and the replay attack and fails to provide user untraceability. To overcome these weaknesses, we propose a robust three‐factor‐based authentication protocol for satellite communication systems and analyze its correctness using Burrows–Abadi–Needham logic. In addition, the descriptive security analysis shows that our protocol is safe and robust against various attacks. By comparing with other related protocols, we find that our protocol has better performance.
DISCERN: Enhanced Dynamic noISe varianCe based EneRgy sensing for cognitive radio using USRP at Wi‐Fi bands
Authors: Avinash Reddy Avuthu , Babu Battula Ramesh , Gopalani Dinesh , Chaithanya Kurra
Published: July 2020

Spectrum sensing is one of the critical tasks in a cognitive radio system that allows a secondary user to use the spectrum while the primary user does not use it. The energy detection (ED) sensing is one of the most common techniques to identify the unused portions in the spectrum bands. In ED, threshold plays a vital role in signal detection, and noise is one of the significant factors in threshold calculation. However, ED efficiency is degraded by the noise uncertainty phenomenon caused by the random changes in noise level. The adverse effects of noise uncertainty are reduced by changing its detection threshold dynamically to the noise circumstances encountered during each sensing period. In the proposed method, received random samples are arranged in M blocks, applied strong Pearson correlation to separate and estimate the variance from the noise samples. The enhanced dynamic noise variance‐based energy sensing is implemented in GNU radio processing blocks and tested on industrial, scientific, medical (ISM) 2.4 GHz frequency bands by using national instrument universal software radio peripheral (NI USRP‐2932) device. The experimental results of proposed energy detction mechanism are compared with existing sensing techniques.
Zinc Schiff Base Complexes Derived from 2,2'‐Diaminobiphenyls: Solution Behavior and Reactivity towards Nitrogen Bases
Authors: Hylland Knut Tormodssønn , Øien‐Ødegaard Sigurd , Heyn Richard H. , Tilset Mats
Published: July 2020

Zn complexes of Schiff base ligands derived from 2,2'‐diaminobiphenyls and salicylaldehyde derivatives were synthesized and characterized by NMR and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The detailed NMR studies suggest that the Zn complexes have a complicated behavior in solution, which is strongly dependent on the donating ability of the solvent, the steric properties of the ligand, as well as the concentration of the complex in the solvent. All these factors are decisive for the determination of the coordination number of the complex in solution. Furthermore, pentacoordinated Zn complexes of the aforementioned type, ligated by a series of nitrogen bases, were synthesized. NMR studies of the different complexes at different concentrations and temperatures, revealed information about their conformational stability. The differences were further examined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. In addition to the studies conducted on Zn complexes, comparative studies were conducted on a series of Cd complexes.
2,4,9‐Triazaadamantanes with “Clickable” Groups: Synthesis, Structure and Applications as Tripodal Platforms
Authors: Semakin Artem N. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Ioffe Sema L. , Sukhorukov Alexey Yu.
Published: July 2020

2,4,9‐Triazaadamantanes (TRIADs) are promising yet scarcely available, conformationally rigid platforms for potential applications in the design of functional molecules and materials. Here, we report a facile synthesis of variousN‐ and C7‐substituted 2,4,9‐triazaadamantanes, starting from amines and 4‐allylhepta‐1,6‐dienes. A focus was placed on the synthesis of 2,4,9‐triazaadamantanes bearing reactive groups (NH2, propargyl, OH) on the bridge nitrogen atoms, which were then used to decorate the 3D scaffold by hydrazone, triazole, and boronate linkages. A reversible opening of the adamantane cage to the acyclic tris‐oxime form was observed for 2,4,9‐triazaadamantanes possessing hydroxy‐groups on the nitrogen atoms (TRIAD‐triols). This process could be controlled by temperature or by complexation of TRIAD‐triol with a boronic acid. The structure of 2,4,9‐triazaadamantanes and the stereodynamics at the bridge nitrogen atoms were studied by X‐ray analysis and DFT calculations.
α,β‐Unsaturated 2‐Ketoglycosides via Pd‐Catalyzed Carbonylative Heck Reaction of 2‐Iodoglycals
Authors: Darbem Mariana P. , Esteves Henrique A. , de Oliveira Isadora M. , Stefani Hélio A.
Published: July 2020

The synthesis of C‐glycosides is of great importance in the field of carbohydrate chemistry given its ubiquity in biologically active molecules. Herein, we describe a protocol for the Pd‐catalyzed carbonylative Heck reaction of activated olefins and 2‐iodoglycals. A variety of α,β‐unsaturated 2‐ketoglycosides were obtained in up to 89 % yield using d‐glucal, d‐galactal, d‐xylal, and l‐arabinal derivatives.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Hexabenzocoronene‐Tetrabenzoporphyrin Architectures
Authors: Ruppel Michael , Gazetas Lampros‐Pascal , Lungerich Dominik , Jux Norbert
Published: July 2020

Porphyrin‐based architectures have emerged as excellent candidates for artificial light‐harvesting antennae. Although tetrabenzoporphyrins (TBPs), the π‐extended “bigger brothers” of porphyrins, benefit from increased absorptivity in the near‐infrared (NIR), their utilization in light‐harvesting systems is still in its infancy. Within this work, we prepared two donor‐acceptor hetero dyads consisting of hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronenes (HBCs) to harvest high energetic near‐UV light, and a TBP core, which serves as visible to NIR light antenna and as subsequent energy sink of the conjugate. The HBCs are either attached to the meso‐position or via a maleimide‐bridge on the periphery of the macrocycle. Upon excitation of the HBC moieties, both dyads exhibit an efficient energy transfer to the TBP core. Furthermore, the TBP‐HBC dyads show superior light‐harvesting properties compared to the respective HBC‐porphyrin reference and the naturally occurring chlorophylls a/b.
A Novel Molecularly Imprinted Potentiometric Sensor for the Fast Determination of Bisoprolol Fumarate in Biological Samples
Authors: Mourad R. , El badry Mohamed Marwa , Frag Eman Y. Z. , El‐Boraey Hanaa A. , EL‐Sanafery Safa S.
Published: July 2020

In this study, molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was prepared and used in the preparation of carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the quantification of bisoprolol fumarate (BF) in pure, pharmaceutical formulation and biological fluids. The selective MIP for BF was synthesized from methacrylic acid as the functional monomer, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate as the cross‐linker in dimethyl sulfoxide solution, BF as the template molecule and 2, 2‐azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as the initiator. The non‐imprinted polymer (NIP) was synthesized by the same procedure, but in the absence of the template molecule then incorporated in the paste of the carbon paste electrodes (CPEs). The prepared MIP for BF and its corresponding NIP were well characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The MIP and NIP based CPEs were further used for the determination of BF and the obtained results indicated that the sensor modified by the MIP have much higher recognition power for the BF molecules than the NIP based sensor where the MIP based CPE exhibited a Nernstian response 29.50±0.55 mV decade−1 within a concentration range of 1.0×10−7–1.0×10−2 mol L−1and pH independence in the range 3.50–7.15. The proposed sensor has high selectivity over several possible interfering compounds. The obtained results by the proposed sensor were satisfactory with excellent percentage recovery and relative standard deviation and were comparable with those obtained from HPLC reported method.
Inexpensive and nonconventional fabrication of microfluidic devices in PMMA based on a soft‐embossing protocol
Authors: Lobo‐Júnior Eulício O. , Chagas Cyro L. S. , Duarte Lucas C. , Cardoso Thiago M. G. , de Souza Fabrício R. , Lima Renato S. , Coltro Wendell K. T.
Published: July 2020

This study describes an inexpensive and nonconventional soft‐embossing protocol to produce microfluidic devices in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The desirable microfluidic structure was photo‐patterned in a poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) film deposited on glass substrate to produce a low‐relief master. Then, this template was used to generate a high‐relief pattern in stiffened PDMS by increasing of curing agent /monomer ratio (1:5) followed by thermal aging in a laboratory oven (200°C for 24 h). The stiffened PDMS masters were used to replicate microfluidic devices in PMMA based on soft embossing at 220–230°C and thermal sealing at 140°C. Both embossing and sealing stages were performed by using binder clips. The proposed protocol has ensured the replication of microfluidic devices in PMMA with great fidelity (>94%). Examples of MCE devices, droplet generator devices and spot test array were successfully demonstrated. For testing MCE devices, a mixture containing inorganic cations was selected as model and the achieved analytical performance did not reveal significant difference from commercial PMMA devices. Water droplets were successfully generated in an oil phase at rate of ca. 60 droplets/min (fixing the continuous phase flow rate at 100 μL/h) with size of ca. 322 ± 6 μm. Glucose colorimetric assay was performed on spot test devices and good detectability level (5 μmol/L) was achieved. The obtained results for two artificial serum samples revealed good agreement with the certified concentrations. Based on the fabrication simplicity and great analytical performance, the proposed soft‐embossing protocol may emerge as promising approach for manufacturing PMMA devices.
ATR signaling in mammalian meiosis: From upstream scaffolds to downstream signaling
Authors: Pereira Catalina , Smolka Marcus B. , Weiss Robert S. , Brieño‐Enríquez Miguel A.
Published: July 2020

In germ cells undergoing meiosis, the induction of double strand breaks (DSBs) is required for the generation of haploid gametes. Defects in the formation, detection, or recombinational repair of DSBs often result in defective chromosome segregation and aneuploidies. Central to the ability of meiotic cells to properly respond to DSBs are DNA damage response (DDR) pathways mediated by DNA damage sensor kinases. DDR signaling coordinates an extensive network of DDR effectors to induce cell cycle arrest and DNA repair, or trigger apoptosis if the damage is extensive. Despite their importance, the functions of DDR kinases and effector proteins during meiosis remain poorly understood and can often be distinct from their known mitotic roles. A key DDR kinase during meiosis is ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3‐related (ATR). ATR mediates key signaling events that control DSB repair, cell cycle progression, and meiotic silencing. These meiotic functions of ATR depend on upstream scaffolds and regulators, including the 9‐1‐1 complex and TOPBP1, and converge on many downstream effectors such as the checkpoint kinase CHK1. Here, we review the meiotic functions of the 9‐1‐1/TOPBP1/ATR/CHK1 signaling pathway during mammalian meiosis.