bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Near Peer Learning on Knowledge and Habit Making Regarding Prevention of Water Borne Diseases among Primary School Children – A Pilot Study
Authors: Verma Rupa Ashok , Maurya Archana
Published: September 2021

Near peer learning is an educational practice in which children interact with  their peers or friends attain educational objectives. In simpler terms children involved in this type of learning are seniors and juniors of the same school or college. Learners are more comfortable and relaxed, and ready to learn when teacher is their peer, whom they know and understand. At the same time, it develops communication skill, leadership skills and confidence of public dealings in the teacher peer.  In recent days, near peer teaching and learning becoming popular as learning methodology in schools and colleges. It involves students exposed to similar circumstances, from same educational programme, but at different levels. Research question of the study is ‘Is Near Peer learning effective on improving knowledge and habit making regarding prevention of waterborne diseases among primary school children?’

This study was carried out systematically to assess the effectiveness of structured Near Peer learning, where a senior student teaches regarding prevention of waterborne diseases to junior students. Here the subject selected for structured near peer learning is “prevention of waterborne diseases”. Elder children of age group 13-14 years taught their near peers of age group 9-10 years, regarding prevention of waterborne diseases with special attention on improving personal hygiene and hand hygiene. The researcher assessed the effectiveness of structured Near peer learning regarding prevention of water borne diseases, in increasing the knowledge and improving the habits related to Personal hygiene and Hand washing, among primary school children. An evaluative research approach with one group pre test post test design was adopted.  In the study, 4 students of 13-14 years age group were selected and researcher taught them regarding prevention of waterborne diseases. 40 primary school children of age group 9-12 years, constituting both boys and girls were also selected through convenient sampling technique. Then one elder child taught 10 younger children regarding same. Pretest and post test done. The questionnaire used were, demographic proforma, knowledge questionnaire, and checklist. Mean pretest was 9.925 and mean post test knowledge was 15.6

Mean pretest for practice was 33.5 and mean post test for practice was 42.07. Hand washing mean pretest practice score was 7.075 and post test was 10.095. There was significant association between pre test scores regarding knowledge and practice and education of child, occupation of father and age of child. P_value<0.005.
Cryo‐EM structure of the full‐length Lon protease from Thermus thermophilus
Authors: Coscia Francesca , Löwe Jan
Published: September 2021

In bacteria, Lon is a large hexameric ATP‐dependent protease that targets misfolded and also folded substrates, some of which are involved in cell division and survival of cellular stress. The N‐terminal domain of Lon facilitates substrate recognition, but how the domains confer such activity has remained unclear. Here, we report the full‐length structure of Lon protease from Thermus thermophilus at 3.9 Å resolution in a substrate‐engaged state. The six N‐terminal domains are arranged in three pairs, stabilized by coiled‐coil segments and forming an additional channel for substrate sensing and entry into the AAA+ ring. Sequence conservation analysis and proteolysis assays confirm that this architecture is required for the degradation of both folded and unfolded substrates in bacteria.
Accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) and amyloid precursor protein (APP) in tumors formed by a mouse xenograft model of inflammatory breast cancer
Authors: Zayas‐Santiago Astrid , Martínez‐Montemayor Michelle M. , Colón‐Vázquez Jadier , Ortiz‐Soto Gabriela , Cirino‐Simonet Jose G. , Inyushin Mikhail
Published: September 2021

Accumulation of amyloid in breast cancer is a well‐known phenomenon, but only immunoglobulin light‐chain amyloidosis (AL) or transthyretin (TTR) amyloid had been detected in human breast tumor samples previously. We recently reported that another amyloidogenic peptide, amyloid beta (Aβ), is present in an aggregated form in animal and human high‐grade gliomas and suggested that it originates systemically from the blood, possibly generated by platelets. To study whether breast cancers are also associated with these Aβ peptides and in what form, we used a nude mouse model inoculated with triple‐negative inflammatory breast cancer cell (SUM‐149) xenografts, which develop noticeable tumors. Immunostaining with two types of specific antibodies for Aβ identified the clear presence of Aβ peptides associated with (a) carcinoma cells and (b) extracellular aggregated amyloid (also revealed by Congo red and thioflavin S staining). Aβ peptides, in both cells and in aggregated amyloid, were distributed in clear gradients, with maximum levels near blood vessels. We detected significant presence of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in the walls of blood vessels of tumor samples, as well as in carcinoma cells. Finally, we used ELISA to confirm the presence of elevated levels of mouse‐generated Aβ40 in tumors. We conclude that Aβ in inflammatory breast cancer tumors, at least in a mouse model, is always present and is concentrated near blood vessels. We also discuss here the possible pathways of Aβ accumulation in tumors and whether this phenomenon could represent the specific signature of high‐grade cancers.
Aminivibrio
Authors: Tonouchi Akio
Published: September 2021

A.mi.nivi'bri.o. N.L. neut. n.
aminum
amine; N.L. masc. n.
vibrio
a vibrio; N.L. masc. n.
Aminivibrio
a vibrio that degrades amines.

Synergistetes / Synergistia / Synergistales / Synergistaceae / Aminivibrio

Cells are Gram‐stain‐negative, non‐spore‐forming, and strictly anaerobic vibrios (0.8 × 2.0–2.5 μm), occurring singly or in pairs. Motile with two or three lateral flagella. Optimal growth is around neutral pH. Growth by fermentation of amino acids and organic acids but not carbohydrates. The Stickland reaction is not observed. Does not reduce sulfate, sulfite, thiosulfate, fumarate, or nitrate. Yeast extract is required for growth. In coculture with a hydrogenotrophic methanogen, some amino acids and fumarate are syntrophically oxidized. A member of “subdivision E” of the family
Synergistaceae
in the phylum
Synergistetes
. The major cellular fatty acids are iso‐C
13:0
, iso‐C
15:0
, and C
19:1
ω11
c
/C
19:1
ω9
c
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 61.9 (HPLC).

Type species
:
Aminivibrio pyruvatiphilus
Honda et al. 2013
VP
.
Serpentinicella
Authors: Quéméneur Marianne , Mei Nan , Postec Anne , Erauso Gael
Published: September 2021

Ser.pen.ti.ni.cel'la. N.L. neut. n.
serpentinum
serpentine; L. fem. n.
cella
a cell; N.L. fem. n.
Serpentinicella
a cell from serpentine.

Firmicutes / Clostridia / Clostridiales / Clostridiaceae / Serpentinicella

Serpentinicella
is a genus in the family
Clostridiaceae
and phylum
Firmicutes
. It currently contains only one validly published species,
Serpentinicella alkaliphila
, which was isolated from a chimney of the serpentinite‐hosted Prony Bay Hydrothermal Field (PBHF), New Caledonia. This species is an alkaliphilic and mesophilic anaerobe that can grow in the absence of NaCl (tolerated up to 4%). The optimum growth pH and temperature of this species are 9.5 and 37°C, respectively. Cells of the strain 3b
T
are terminal spore forming and motile (with peritrichous flagella) rods (1–10 μm long and 0.4–0.6 μm wide), occurring singly or in pairs. It is chemoorganotrophic using proteinaceous compounds and organic acids but not sugars. The only substrates used for growth were lactate, pyruvate, and crotonate. The current knowledge of its habitat is limited to alkaline and/or saline ecosystems.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 33.2.

Type species
:
Serpentinicella alkaliphila
Mei et al. 2016
VP
.
Klenkia
Authors: Montero‐Calasanz Maria del Carmen
Published: September 2021

Klen'ki.a. N.L. fem. n.
Klenkia
, named in honor of Hans‐Peter Klenk, Professor at Newcastle University (United Kingdom) in recognition of his contributions to bacterial systematics including the promotion of studies in
Geodermatophilaceae
.

Actinobacteria / Actinobacteria / Geodermatophilales / Geodermatophilaceae / Klenkia

The genus
Klenkia
comprises mesophilic, neutrophilic bacteria that are isolated from grass soil and sediments. Cells are motile, rod shaped, and Gram‐stain‐positive. Colonies are usually pink colored and circular with a moist surface. Grow well on glucose–yeast extract–malt extract (GYM)
Streptomyces
and Reasoner's 2A (R2A) agars. The peptidoglycan in the cell wall contains
meso
‐diaminopimelic acid, and the basic whole‐cell sugar pattern includes ribose, mannose, and glucose. The predominant menaquinones are MK‐9(H
4
) and MK‐9(H
0
). The polar‐lipid profile always involves diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, hydroxyphosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, and glycophosphoinositol. The major cellular fatty acids are iso‐C
16:0
and iso‐C
15:0
.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 74.0–75.0 (genome analysis).

Type species
:
Klenkia marina
Montero‐Calasanz et al. 2017, VL181.
Roseimaritima
Authors: Lage Olga Maria , Calisto Rita
Published: September 2021

Ro.se.i.ma.ri'ti.ma. L. masc. adj.
roseus
, rose colored; L. masc. adj.
maritimus
, of the sea, marine; N.L. fem. n.
Roseimaritima
, the marine rose‐colored bacterium.

Planctomycetes / Planctomycetia / Pirellulales / Pirellulaceae / Roseimaritima

The genus
Roseimaritima
accommodates Gram‐negative bacteria, of variable shapes, that can be spherical to ovoid and pear shaped. Cells are frequently organized in rosettes and form light pink colonies on agar medium. Cells possess fimbria and crateriform structures located at one cell pole and reproduce by budding. Members of this genus are chemoheterotrophic, strictly aerobic, slightly alkaliphilic, and mesophilic bacteria. Vitamin B12 may be needed for growth. The respiratory quinone is MK6. The major fatty acids are C
18:1
 ω9
c
and C
16:0
. Diphosphatidylglycerol is one of the major polar lipids. The genome size varies from 6.25 to 8.21 Mb. The genus is a member of the class
Planctomycetia
, order
Pirellulales
, and family
Pirellulaceae
. Members of the genus inhabit marine or brackish environments (e.g., the biofilm of macroalgae, sediments, and fjord water).

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 59.1–62.4 (Genome sequence).

Type species
:
Roseimaritima ulvae
Bondoso et al. 2015, VL171.
Hypertension management in elderly with severe intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Zhao Jingjing , Yuan Fang , Fu Feng , Liu Yi , Xue Changhu , Wang Kangjun , Yuan Xiangjun , Li Dingan , Liu Qiuwu , Zhang Wei , Jia Yi , He Jianbo , Zhou Jun , Wang Xiaocheng , Lv Hua , Huo Kang , Li Zhuanhui , Zhang Bei , Wang Chengkai , Wang Xiaomu , Li Hongzeng , Yang Fang , Jiang Wen ,   the CHASE Study Group
Published: September 2021

Objective

To explore the effect of individualized blood pressure (BP)‐lowering treatment on the outcomes of elderly patients with severe intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

We performed an exploratory analysis of Controlling Hypertension After Severe Cerebrovascular Event (CHASE) trial, which was a multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Patients with severe ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke (defined as GCS ≤ 12 or NIHSS ≥ 11) were randomized into individualized versus standard BP‐lowering treatment in CHASE trial. In this exploratory analysis, patients with severe ICH were included. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients with 90‐day functional independence defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) ≤2.

Results

We included 242 patients with severe ICH in the present analysis, consisting of 142 patients aged <65 years and 100 patients aged ≥65 years. There were significant differences between patients aged ≥65 years and <65 years in the proportion of functional independence (47.9% vs. 15.0%, P < 0.001) and good outcome (73.9% vs. 50.0%, P < 0.001) at day 90. In patients aged ≥65 years, the adjusted individualized BP‐lowering treatment had an unequivocal effect on the functional independence at day 90 (21.6% vs. 8.2%, odds ratio [OR]: 4.309, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.040‐17.859, P = 0.044) and improved the neurological deficits at discharge (∆ NIHSS ≥ 4: 64.7% vs. 34.7%, OR: 4.300, 95% CI: 1.599‐11.563, P = 0.004).

Interpretation

Compared with the younger counterparts, the elderly patients (≥65 years) with acute severe ICH might benefit more from individualized BP‐lowering treatment.
Effects of Heat Treatment and Cr Content on the Microstructures, Magnetostriction, and Energy Harvesting Performance of Cr‐Doped Fe–Co Alloys
Authors: Nakajima Kenya , Tanaka Shota , Mori Kotaro , Kurita Hiroki , Narita Fumio
Published: September 2021

The magnetostrictive effect is one of the most useful properties of ferromagnetic materials. Vibrations in dynamic structures and machines represent a nontraditional alternative energy source, and ferromagnetic materials could potentially convert the kinetic energy of these vibrations into electrical energy using the inverse magnetostrictive effect. Herein, Fe–Co–Cr alloys are fabricated and these materials are applied to vibrational energy harvesting. Specifically, (x = 0, 0.5, 1.0, or 3.0 at%) alloys are made by arc melting in an argon atmosphere and then heat treated at temperatures that promoted magnetostrictive characteristics. The structural properties of these materials are subsequently investigated using energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, while their magnetic properties are assessed with a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and their magnetostrictive characteristics are evaluated with a strain gauge method. Vibrational energy harvesting experiments are conducted and the relationship between the output power and the magnetic/magnetostrictive characteristics of these alloys is examined. The data shows that magnetic permeability is an important factor determining the output power of these Fe–Co alloys, in addition to their magnetostrictive properties. The results provide a basis for the systematic development of magnetostrictive material variants and for new alloys required to meet the needs of future designs.
Magnetoelectrical Clothing Generator for High‐Performance Transduction from Biomechanical Energy to Electricity
Authors: Wang Rui , Du Zhuolin , Xia Zhigang , Liu Jiaxin , Li Pan , Wu Zhenhua , Yue Yamei , Xiang Yuanzhuo , Meng Jinchang , Liu Dexiang , Xu Weilin , Tao Xiaoming , Tao Guangming , Su Bin
Published: September 2021

Electromagnetism, which has been used to harvest energy from human motion, is expected to power an increasing number of wearable electronic devices upon fabrics. However, most reported electromagnetism‐based approaches necessitate rigid and heavy setups. Here, a scalable‐manufactured flexible magnetoelectrical clothing generator is demonstrated that can generate electricity through the swinging of the arms. A “particle flow spinning” (PFS) method can produce continuous magnetic yarns, resulting in a magnetic fabric through an industrial weaving machine. Fabrics can be prepared in large quantities and have a lower cost. The magnetic fabrics and conductive wires are built on two sides of the armpit parts of the clothing, leading to continuous and stable voltage and current when swinging arm, 14.3 V peak voltage, 31.2 mA peak current, and 96 mW peak power (3197 mW m−2 peak power density) in series to a low‐impedance load (750 ohms). Furthermore, the magnetic fabrics can work under water without sealing treatment, in acidic/alkaline environments or at extreme temperatures. The magnetoelectrical clothing generator can power diverse electronic devices in many fields, such as LED lights, calculators, wireless communication, and health monitoring devices. This approach opens a path toward exploring electromagnetic energy harvesting strategies to realize power generation for the development of clothing electronics.
A Cross‐Coupling Reaction Between Aliphatic Aldehydes And Sulfonium Salts
Authors: Chen Baoli , Li Li , Chen Jiean , Huang Yong
Published: September 2021

The synthesis of multi‐substituted electron‐deficient alkenes is often accomplished via cross‐coupling of diazo compounds in the presence of a metal catalyst. Herein, we report an organocatalytic protocol that enables the direct coupling of aliphatic aldehydes with sulfonium ylides. A key carbene mimetic, α‐iodoenamine/enol, is believed to engage in direct cross‐coupling with a sulfonium ylide, delivering α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds with a formyl substituent. The reaction demonstrated remarkably mild conditions, convergence, and control of olefin geometry.

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An analysis of social determinants of health and structural competency training in global emergency medicine fellowship programs in the United States
Authors: Grossman Lindsay G. , Mechanic Oren J. , Orr Zvika , Cioe‐Peña Eric C. , Landry Alden , Unger Shifra , Greenstein Josh , Alpert Evan Avraham
Published: September 2021

Background

Clinicians must be aware of the structural forces that affect their patients to appropriately address their unique health care needs. This study aimed to assess the participation of global emergency medicine (GEM) fellowship programs in formal social determinants of health (SDH) and structural competency (SC) training to evaluate the existence and procedures of such programs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study conducted with a short, online survey with questions regarding the presence of curriculum focused on SDH, SC, educational metrics, and the desire for further formal training in this domain was sent to all 25 GEM fellowship directors through the Global Emergency Medicine Fellowship Consortium (GEMFC) email listserv.

Results

Eighty percent (20/25) of GEM fellowship directors responded to the survey. All (20/20) of participating fellowship programs included SDH and SC training in their didactic curriculum, and eight of 20 (40%) programs offered similar training for faculty. Additionally, 19 of 20 (95%) of respondents indicated interest in an open‐source tool for emergency medicine (EM) fellowship training in SDH and SC.

Conclusions

While multiple GEM programs offer formal training on SDH and SC, gaps exist regarding similar training for faculty. Additionally, there is a lack of metrics to determine fellows' comfort with the content of this training. As a majority of GEMFC programs requested, an open‐source tool would allow a uniform curriculum and measurement of EM fellowship training in SDH and SC.
IrOx@In2O3 Heterojunction from Individually Crystallized Oxides for Weak‐Light‐Promoted Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Yang Yumei , Ji Yujin , Li Guangyu , Li Youyong , Jia Baohua , Yan Junqing , Ma Tianyi , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: September 2021

Multi‐field coupling, especially photo‐assisted electrocatalysis, has recently been studied to further improve the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this study, an n‐type cubic In2O3 semiconductor is employed for the first time to load IrOx species (Ir‐In2O3 mass ratio: 17.6 %). Consequently, the IrOx@In2O3 heterojunction, which exhibits outstanding OER performance promoted by weak‐light irradiation, is formed. Notably, IrOx (approximately 1.7 nm in size) and In2O3 are observed to crystallize independently during heterogeneous nucleation with no Ir atoms doped in the In2O3 lattice. This avoids Ir loss and ensures the full exposure of all Ir‐based sites. The IrOx@In2O3 heterojunction exhibits enhanced electrocatalytic water oxidation with overpotential values of 190 and 231 mV at current densities of 10 and 50 mA cm−2, surpassing all IrOx‐based catalyst results reported to date. Nano‐sized IrOx on the surface, irradiated by the weak‐light beam of LED‐365 (1.8 mW cm−2), can be fully activated as an OER site. Moreover, the overpotential is further reduced to 176 and 210 mV to deliver the corresponding current. This work is anticipated to aid in the design of more efficient multi‐field coupling OER systems.
Controlled Asymmetric Charge Distribution of Active Centers in Conjugated Polymers for Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Li Daohao , Wang Binbin , Long Xiaojing , Xu Wenjia , Xia Yanzhi , Yang Dongjiang , Yao Xiangdong
Published: September 2021

Active center reconstruction is essential for high performance oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts. Usually, the ORR activity stems from the electronic environment of active sites by charge redistribution. We introduce an asymmetry strategy to adjust the charge distribution of active centers by designing conjugated polymer (CP) catalysts with different degrees of asymmetry. We synthesized asymmetric backbone CP (asy‐PB) by modifying B←N coordination bonds and asymmetric sidechain CP (asy‐PB‐A) with different alkyl chain lengths. Both CPs with backbone and sidechain asymmetry exhibit superior ORR performance to their symmetric counterparts (sy‐Pandsy‐PB). Theasy‐PBwith greater asymmetry shows higher catalytic activity thanasy‐PB‐Awith relatively smaller asymmetry. DFT calculations reveal that the increased dipole moment and non‐uniform charge distribution caused by asymmetric structure endows the center carbon atom of bipyridine with efficient catalytic activity.
Tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane‐Catalyzed Carbenium Ion Generation and Autocatalytic Pyrazole Synthesis—A Computational and Experimental Study
Authors: Dasgupta Ayan , Babaahmadi Rasool , Pahar Sanjukta , Stefkova Katarina , Gierlichs Lukas , Yates Brian F. , Ariafard Alireza , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: September 2021

In recent years, metal‐free organic synthesis using triarylboranes as catalysts has become a prevalent research area. Herein we report a comprehensive computational and experimental study for the highly selective synthesis of N‐substituted pyrazoles through the generation of carbenium species from the reaction between aryl esters and vinyl diazoacetates in the presence of catalytic tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane [B(C6F5)3]. DFT studies were undertaken to illuminate the reaction mechanism revealing that the in situ generation of a carbenium species acts as an autocatalyst to prompt the regiospecific formation of N‐substituted pyrazoles in good to excellent yields (up to 81 %).
An NADPH‐Dependent Ketoreductase Catalyses the Tetracyclic to Pentacyclic Skeletal Rearrangement in Chartreusin Biosynthesis
Authors: Jiao Fang Wen , Wang Yi Shuang , You Xue Ting , Wei Wanqing , Chen Yu , Yang Cheng Long , Guo Zhi Kai , Zhang Bo , Liang Yong , Tan Ren Xiang , Jiao Rui Hua , Ge Hui Ming
Published: September 2021

Redox tailoring enzymes play key roles in generating structural complexity and diversity in type II polyketides. In chartreusin biosynthesis, the early 13C‐labeling experiments and bioinformatic analysis suggest the unusual aglycone is originated from a tetracyclic anthracyclic polyketide. Here, we demonstrated that the carbon skeleton rearrangement from a linear anthracyclic polyketide to an angular pentacyclic biosynthetic intermediate requires two redox enzymes. The flavin‐dependent monooxygenase ChaZ catalyses a Baeyer–Villiger oxidation on resomycin C to form a seven‐membered lactone. Subsequently, a ketoreductase ChaE rearranges the carbon skeleton and affords the α‐pyrone containing pentacyclic intermediate in an NADPH‐dependent manner via tandem reactions including the reduction of the lactone carbonyl group, Aldol‐type reaction, followed by a spontaneous γ‐lactone ring formation, oxidation and aromatization. Our work reveals an unprecedented function of a ketoreductase that contributes to generate structural complexity of aromatic polyketide.
Timor‐Leste economic survey: The end of petroleum income
Authors: Scheiner Charles
Published: September 2021

As Timor‐Leste nears the end of its petroleum‐exporting era, the transition to a sustainable economy has become even more challenging due to partisan political competition, disastrous flooding and the pandemic. This article describes the current economic context, and deteriorating trends. After a brief discussion of the political situation and the impacts of COVID‐19, it explores expenditure and income trends in recent state budgets, with a particular focus on dependency on oil and gas revenues and their investments, which pay for 80% of state spending and may run out within a decade. It then assesses in detail revenue prospects from current and future oil and gas activities, including Greater Sunrise and the planned Tasi Mane petroleum infrastructure project. The analysis shows that it is highly likely that resource revenue will continue to decline. Diversification is not an option; it is the only way forward.
A new method providing complementary explanation of the blood‐enriching function and mechanism of unprocessed Angelica sinensis and its four kinds of processed products based on tissue‐integrated metabolomics and confirmatory analysis
Authors: Ji Peng , Li Chen‐chen , Wei Yan‐ming , Hua Yong‐li , Yao Wan‐ling , Wu Fan‐lin , Zhang Xiao‐song , Yuan Zi‐wen , Zhao Nian‐shou , Zhang Ya‐hui , Wen Yan‐qiao
Published: September 2021

Angelica sinensis (AS) is a common Traditional Chinese Medicine used for tonifying blood in China. Unprocessed AS and its four kinds of processed products (ASs) are used to treat blood deficiency syndrome in the country. The different blood‐tonifying mechanisms of ASs remain unclear. In this work, a novel method integrating metabolomics and hematological and biochemical parameters was established to provide a complementary explanation of blood supplementation mechanism of ASs. Our results revealed that different ASs exhibited various blood supplementation effect, and that AS parched with alcohol demonstrated the best blood supplementation effect. Eight metabolites from liver tissue and 12 metabolites from spleen tissue were considered to be potential biomarkers. These biomarkers were involved in four metabolic pathways. Correlation analysis results showed that l‐aspartic acid and l‐alanine (spleen tissue), linoleic acid, and l‐cystathionine (liver tissue) exhibited a high positive or negative correlation with the aforesaid biochemical indicators. The blood‐supplementation effect mechanism of ASs were related to four metabolic pathways. l‐Aspartic acid and l‐alanine (spleen tissue), linoleic acid, and l‐cystathionine (liver tissue) were the four key metabolites associated with the blood supplementation effect of ASs. This study gives a complementary explanation of the blood supplementation effect and mechanism of action of ASs.
Excess‐Heat Recovery and Promotion through Organic Chemical Heat Pumps
Authors: Pinela da Silva Luis António , João Isabel Maria , Silva João Miguel
Published: September 2021

Heat recovery and promotion is essential to decarbonization, and chemical heat pumps based on reversible organic reactions can aid to fulfil this. This paper studied the isopropanol/acetone/hydrogen (IAH) and the tert‐butanol/isobutene/water (tB/iB) systems regarding their performance and economic competitiveness through simulation and found that the IAH presents satisfactory performance and has the potential to be a very promising solution in increasing the overall energy efficiency while also preventing the emission of massive amounts of CO2 and other greenhouse gases released during energy production and transformation. This system presents enough arguments to become a very successful solution if proper politico‐economic support and incentives are established and put into practice.
Separation of Indium from Acid Sulfate‐Containing Solutions by Ion Exchange with Impregnated Resins
Authors: Vostal Radek , Pavón Sandra , Kaiser Doreen , Bertau Martin
Published: September 2021

Indium separation using ion exchange resins from acidic polymetallic and very diluted solutions are investigated. Since the selectivity of commercial ion exchange resins have proven to be too low for an effective separation from solutions with high content of other metals, Lewatit® TP 208 was impregnated with common extractants to enhance its properties. By resin impregnation with D2EHPA and Cyanex 272, not only the selective indium recovery was reached but also the resin capacity was increased approx. two times. The best loading and elution performance were shown by Cyanex 272‐impregnated Lewatit® TP 208, increasing the indium purity in the eluate from 0.75 % to 85 %.
Evacuation from various types of finite two‐dimensional square grid fields by a metamorphic robotic system
Authors: Nakamura Junya , Kamei Sayaka , Yamauchi Yukiko
Published: September 2021

A metamorphic robotic system (MRS) is composed of anonymous, memoryless, and autonomous modules that execute an identical distributed algorithm to move while keeping the connectivity of the modules. For an MRS, the number of modules required to solve a given task is an important complexity measure. Here, we consider evacuation from a finite two‐dimensional square grid field by an MRS. This study aims to establish the minimum number of modules required to solve the evacuation problem under several conditions. We consider a rectangular field surrounded by walls with at least one exit. Our results show that two modules are necessary and sufficient for evacuation from any rectangular field if equipped with a global compass, which provides the modules with a common sense of direction. After that, we focus on the case of modules without a global compass and show that four (resp. seven) modules are necessary and sufficient for restricted (resp. any) initial shapes of an MRS. We also show that two modules are sufficient when an MRS is touching a wall in an initial configuration. Then, we clarify the condition to stop an MRS after evacuation of a rectangular field. Finally, we extend these results to mazes and convex fields.
Optimal resource allocation with deep reinforcement learning and greedy adaptive firefly algorithm in cloud computing
Authors: Karat Chitharanjan , Senthilkumar Radha
Published: September 2021

The allocation of resources is a foremost demanding task in cloud computing. Scholars are yet finding it difficult to allocate appropriate resources to the set of user tasks. Our objective is to provide a platform that optimizes a dynamic resource allocation scheme. Multi‐agent deep reinforcement learning‐based greedy adaptive firefly algorithm (MAD‐GAF) has been proposed herein includes both the resource management and allocation techniques. This chooses the best Quality of Service (QoS) measured host for a group of tasks efficiently and subsequently minimize the task execution time. The proposed cloud brokering architecture comprises a multi‐agent system, the cloud provider and the user. Initially, deep reinforcement learning has been built to recreate the request of cloud customers by forecasting the value of unused resources. Then the recreated customer request is forwarded to the global broker agent, which maps the virtual machine (VM) to the most appropriate cluster of physical machine (PM). The virtual machine monitor (VMM) selects VMs by managing and accessing the physical resources. The global utility agent allocates VMs using the GAF optimization algorithm, which specifies the best QoS measured host to decrease the whole tasks' average response time, thus optimizing resource allocation compared to the current approaches.
Stimuli‐Responsive Chiroptical Switching
Authors: Sahoo Diptiprava , Benny Renitta , KS Nithish Kumar , De Soumen
Published: September 2021

“Chirality” governs many fundamental properties in chemistry and biochemistry. While early investigations on stereochemistry are primarily dedicated to static chirality, there is an increasing interest in the field of dynamic chirality (chiral switches). These chiral switches are essential in controlling the directionality in molecular motors. Dynamic chiralities are equally crucial in switchable stereoselectivity, switchable asymmetric catalysis and enantioselective separation. Herein, we limit our discussion to recent advances on stimuli‐induced chiroptical switching of axial, helical, and planar chirality in response to external stimuli. We also discuss a few examples of applications of the switchable chirality.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in speech therapy rehabilitation of voice and swallowing function in adults—a systematic review
Authors: da Silva Milena Assis , Mangilli Laura Davison
Published: September 2021

Introduction

In recent years, a number of clinical trials have been published comparing transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and traditional speech therapy treatment of voice and swallowing functions, but results have been conflicting.

Objective

Assess the methodological quality of studies and determine whether TENS is an efficient therapeutic strategy for speech therapy treatment of healthy adults or those with dysphonia and/or dysphagia.

Methods

The databases used were Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MedLine), Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), Cochrane Library and Web of Science (ISI Web of Knowledge). The study was conducted between May 2018 and January 2019, in line with Cochrane Handbook guidelines, and included studies on the use of TENS in healthy adults or those with compromised voice and/or swallowing function.

Results

After the search and extraction of studies, the following were identified: TENS + VOICE: 7 articles; TENS + SWALLOWING: 5 articles. The studies exhibited medium quality and are heterogeneous, making it difficult to determine their effectiveness and the parameters to be used in future research. There were no statistically significant differences between the use of TENS alone or associated with another therapeutic technique for voice. For swallowing function, one study proved better results in cases of associated techniques – TENS + traditional therapy.

Discussion

Speech therapy should increase the number of studies published and improve their methodological quality, reassessing methodological criteria. Current clinical practice is not grounded in evidence‐based science.

Clinical Message

the studies analyzed exhibited medium methodological quality;

there are variations in the time, number and periodicity of the therapeutic sessions for TENS;

there were no statistically significant differences between the use of TENS alone or associated with another therapeutic technique in voice;

there were statistically significant differences between the use of TENS associated with traditional therapeutic in swallowing function.
Unsupervised mobile cognitive testing for use in preclinical Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Papp Kathryn V. , Samaroo Aubryn , Chou Hsiang‐Chin , Buckley Rachel , Schneider Olivia R. , Hsieh Stephanie , Soberanes Daniel , Quiroz Yakeel , Properzi Michael , Schultz Aaron , García‐Magariño Iván , Marshall Gad A. , Burke Jane G. , Kumar Raya , Snyder Noah , Johnson Keith , Rentz Dorene M. , Sperling Reisa A. , Amariglio Rebecca E.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Unsupervised digital cognitive testing is an appealing means to capture subtle cognitive decline in preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD). Here, we describe development, feasibility, and validity of the Boston Remote Assessment for Neurocognitive Health (BRANCH) against in‐person cognitive testing and amyloid/tau burden.

Methods

BRANCH is web‐based, self‐guided, and assesses memory processes vulnerable in AD. Clinically normal participants (n = 234; aged 50–89) completed BRANCH; a subset underwent in‐person cognitive testing and positron emission tomography imaging. Mean accuracy across BRANCH tests (Categories, Face‐Name‐Occupation, Groceries, Signs) was calculated.

Results

BRANCH was feasible to complete on participants’ own devices (primarily smartphones). Technical difficulties and invalid/unusable data were infrequent. BRANCH psychometric properties were sound, including good retest reliability. BRANCH was correlated with in‐person cognitive testing (r = 0.617, P < .001). Lower BRANCH score was associated with greater amyloid (r = –0.205, P = .007) and entorhinal tau (r = –0.178, P = .026).

Discussion

BRANCH reliably captures meaningful cognitive information remotely, suggesting promise as a digital cognitive marker sensitive early in the AD trajectory.
Vitamin D deficiency associated with risk of prediabetes among older adults: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2007–2012
Authors: Pojednic Rachele M. , Trussler Emily M. , Navon Julia D. , Lemire Sarah C. , Siu Elizabeth C. , Metallinos‐Katsaras Elizabeth S.
Published: September 2021

Aim

To examine the association between vitamin D (25(OH)D) deficiency and risk of prediabetes in Americans 50+ years of age.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional analysis of NHANES (2007–2012) subjects aged 50+ years, free of kidney/liver diseases and diabetes. Prediabetes was defined as: HbA1c level 5.7%–6.4%, or fasting plasma glucose level 100–125 mg/dL, or Oral Glucose Tolerance Test result 140–199 mg/dL, with no laboratory value in the diabetic range. The comparison group had normal glucose tolerance (NGT) with no marker in the prediabetes/diabetes range. Total serum 25(OH)D levels were deficient at <50 nmol/L, insufficient 50–75 nmol/L, and sufficient >75 nmol/L. Logistic regression included strata, cluster and weight variables. Models were adjusted for body mass index (BMI), ethnicity, age and gender.

Results

The final sample was 2286 adults, predominantly White (80.4%) and female (56.6%), with a mean age of 62.3 years. Within the sample, 1387 had prediabetes (59.1%) and 899 were NGT (40.9%). Individuals classified within a lower serum vitamin D category were more likely to have prediabetes (p = 0.03). Those with 25(OH)D deficiency were more likely to have prediabetes compared to 25(OH)D sufficient individuals (crude OR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.15–1.91), and this association remained significant after adjustment for ethnicity, BMI, age and gender (aOR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.02–1.89). There was no effect modification by BMI, gender or ethnicity.

Conclusions

Vitamin D status was associated with risk of prediabetes in this sample of Americans 50+ years of age. Future research should seek to understand the potential mechanistic relationship between vitamin D and prediabetes.
Cycloaddition Reactions of in situ Generated C2D2 in Dioxane: Efficient Synthetic Approach to D2‐Labeled Nitrogen Heterocycles
Authors: Voronin Vladimir V. , Ledovskaya Maria S. , Rodygin Konstantin S. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: September 2021

In this work, an universal synthetic approach for the synthesis of D2‐labeled nitrogen heterocycles based on cycloaddition reactions of in situ generated dideuteroacetylene is reported. A key feature of this method is the use of 1,4‐dioxane as a deuterium‐exchange‐proof solvent, which allowed the access to dideuterosubstituted heterocycles in up to 99 % deuteration degree. The method was demonstrated to be suitable for the synthesis of D2‐labeled triazoles, isoxazoles, pyrazoles and pyridazines.
To the brave scientists: Aren't we strong enough to stand (and profit from) uncertainty in Earth system measurement and modelling?
Authors: Paasche Hendrik , Gross Matthias , Lüttgau Jakob , Greenberg David S. , Weigel Tobias
Published: September 2021

The current handling of data in earth observation, modelling and prediction measures gives cause for critical consideration, since we all too often carelessly ignore data uncertainty. We think that Earth scientists are generally aware of the importance of linking data to quantitative uncertainty measures. But we also think that uncertainty quantification of Earth observation data too often fails at very early stages. We claim that data acquisition without uncertainty quantification is not sustainable and machine learning and computational modelling cannot unfold their potential when analysing complex natural systems like the Earth. Current approaches such as stochastic perturbation of parameters or initial conditions cannot quantify uncertainty or bias arising from the choice of model, limiting scientific progress. We need incentives stimulating the honest treatment of uncertainty starting during data acquisition, continuing through analysis methodology and prediction results. Computational modellers and machine learning experts have a critical role, since they enjoy high esteem from stakeholders and their methodologies and their results critically depend on data uncertainty. If both want to advance their uncertainty assessment of models and predictions of complex systems like the Earth, they have a common problem to solve. Together, computational modellers and machine learners could develop new strategies for bias identification and uncertainty quantification offering a more all‐embracing uncertainty quantification than any known methodology. But since it starts for computational modellers and machine learners with data and their uncertainty, the fundamental first step in such a development would be leveraging shareholder esteem to insistently advocate for reduction of ignorance when it comes to uncertainty quantification of data.
Characteristics of people with dementia lost to follow‐up from a dementia care center
Authors: Boyd Nicole D. , Naasan Georges , Harrison Krista L. , Garrett Sarah B. , D'Aguiar Rosa Talita , Pérez‐Cerpa Brenda , McFarlane Shamiel , Miller Bruce L. , Ritchie Christine S.
Published: September 2021

Objective

To identify the prevalence and characteristics of people living with dementia (PLWD) lost to follow‐up (LTFU) from a specialized dementia care clinic and to understand factors influencing patient follow‐up status.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of PLWD seen at a dementia care clinic 2012–2017 who were deceased as of 2018 (n = 746). Participants were evaluated for follow‐up status at the time of death. Generalized linear regression was used to analyze demographic and diagnostic characteristics by follow‐up status. Text extracted from participant medical records was analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify reasons patients became LTFU.

Results

Among PLWD seen at a dementia care clinic, 42% became LTFU before death, 39% of whom had chart documentation describing reasons for loss to follow‐up. Increased rates of LTFU were associated with female sex (risk ratio 1.27, [95% confidence interval 1.09–1.49]; p = 0.003), educational attainment of high school or less (1.34, [1.13–1.61]; p = 0.001), and death in a long‐term care facility (1.46, [1.19–1.80]; p = 0.003). Commonly documented reasons for not returning for care at the clinic included switching care to another provider (42%), logistical difficulty accessing care (26%), patient‐family decision to discontinue care (24%), and functional challenges in accessing care (23%).

Conclusions

PLWD are LTFU from specialized memory care at high rates. Attention to care coordination, patient–provider communication, and integrated use of alternative care models such as telehealth are potential strategies to improve care.
No increase in anti‐A isohemagglutinin titer after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: A retrospective cohort analysis of group O apheresis platelet donors
Authors: Wasiluk Tomasz , Bujno Magdalena , Rybinska Kamila , Rogowska Anna , Zebrowska Agnieszka , Boczkowska‐Radziwon Barbara , Piszcz Jaroslaw , Bolkun Lukasz , Radziwon Piotr
Published: September 2021

The risk of a hemolytic reaction during the transfusion of ABO non‐identical PC is determined by the presence of natural anti‐A IgM antibodies, the titer of which may increase after infections. The aim of the study was to evaluate the titer of anti‐A isohemagglutinins in platelet concentrate (PC) obtained by apheresis from group O donors who experienced SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, and to compare the titer before and after infection. A retrospective single‐center analysis of 21 PC donors with a previous COVID‐19 history was performed. The results showed neither a statistically important increase in the anti‐A IgM antibody titers nor a significant correlation between the anti‐A IgM antibody level and anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2S1 antibody titer in the donors with an asymptomatic or mild COVID‐19. Further population‐based studies on anti‐A titers are necessary for a comprehensive assessment of this phenomenon.
Repurposing fusion inhibitor peptide against SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Efaz Faiyaz Md. , Islam Shafiqul , Talukder Shafi Ahmad , Akter Shaila , Tashrif Md. Zakaria , Ali Md. Ackas , Sufian Md. Abu , Parves Md. Rimon , Islam Md. Jahirul , Halim Mohammad A.
Published: September 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is continuously evolving. Although several vaccines were approved, this pandemic is still a major threat to public life. Till date, no established therapies are available against SARS‐CoV‐2. Peptide inhibitors hold great promise for this viral pathogen due to their efficacy, safety, and specificity. In this study, seventeen antiviral peptides which were known to inhibit SARS‐CoV‐1 are collected and computationally screened against heptad repeat 1 (HR1) of the SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein (S2). Out of 17 peptides, Fp13 and Fp14 showed better binding affinity toward HR1 compared to a control peptide EK1 (a modified pan‐coronavirus fusion inhibitor) in molecular docking. To explore the time‐dependent interactions of the fusion peptide with HR1, molecular dynamics simulation was performed incorporating lipid membrane. During 100 ns MD simulation, structural and energy parameters of Fp13‐HR1 and Fp14‐HR1 complexes demonstrated lower fluctuations compared to the control EK1‐HR1 complex. Furthermore, principal component analysis and free energy landscape study revealed that these two peptides (Fp13 and Fp14) strongly bind to the HR1 with higher affinity than that of control EK1. Tyr917, Asn919, Gln926, lys933, and Gln949 residues in HR1 protein were found to be crucial residues for peptide interaction. Notably, Fp13, Fp14 showed reasonably better binding free energy and hydrogen bond contribution than that of EK1. Taken together, Fp13 and Fp14 peptides may be highly specific for HR1 which can potentially prevent the formation of the fusion core and could be further developed as therapeutics for treatment or prophylaxis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
The expression profile and clinical application value of hsa_circ_0016148 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shen Zhisen , Wang Liuqian , Ye Dong
Published: September 2021

Background

Dysregulated circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in human cancers and may be used as biomarkers with the potential of clinical application. However, little is known regarding the mechanism of circRNAs and their clinical application value in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

In the current study, we established the profile of circRNAs in HNSCC using microarray and then measured the expression of hsa_circ_0016148 in 137 paired HNSCC tissues by qRT‐PCR technique, analyzed the relationship between hsa_circ_0016148 and clinicopathological data, and investigated its diagnostic and prognostic value. The hsa_circ_0016148‐miRNA‐mRNA interaction network was predicted and constructed by Cytoscape.

Results

Our study showed a circRNA expression profile and confirmed downregulated hsa_circ_0016148 in HNSCC tissues (p = 2.64E‐35). The hsa_circ_0016148 expression is remarkably correlated with lymph node metastasis (p = 0.001) and clinical stage (p = 0.029). Then, the area under the receiver characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.912 with 92% of sensitivity and 86.9% specificity, respectively. Besides, our study demonstrated that lower‐expressed hsa_circ_0016148 could independently predict poorer overall survival of HNSCC patients (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.456; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.265–0.784; p = 0.005). The hsa_circ_0016148‐miRNA‐mRNA interaction network was constructed, which included a total of nine targeted miRNAs.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results revealed that hsa_circ_0016148 might play a critical role in HNSCC tumorigenesis and may serve as an indicator with the potential of diagnosis and prognosis for HNSCC.