bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Describing the sounds of nature: Using onomatopoeia to classify bird calls for citizen science
Authors: Vella Kellie , Johnson Daniel , Roe Paul
Published: May 2021

Bird call libraries are difficult to collect yet vital for bio-acoustics studies. A potential solution is citizen science labelling of calls. However, acoustic annotation techniques are still relatively undeveloped and in parallel, citizen science initiatives struggle with maintaining participant engagement, while increasing efficiency and accuracy. This study explores the use of an under-utilised and theoretically engaging and intuitive means of sound categorisation: onomatopoeia. To learn if onomatopoeia was a reliable means of categorisation, an online experiment was conducted. Participants sourced from Amazon mTurk (N = 104) ranked how well twelve onomatopoeic words described acoustic recordings of ten native Australian bird calls. Of the ten bird calls, repeated measures ANOVA revealed that five of these had single descriptors ranked significantly higher than all others, while the remaining calls had multiple descriptors that were rated significantly higher than others. Agreement as assessed by Kendall’s W shows that overall, raters agreed regarding the suitability and unsuitability of the descriptors used across all bird calls. Further analysis of the spread of responses using frequency charts confirms this and indicates that agreement on which descriptors were unsuitable was pronounced throughout, and that stronger agreement of suitable singular descriptions was matched with greater rater confidence. This demonstrates that onomatopoeia may be reliably used to classify bird calls by non-expert listeners, adding to the suite of methods used in classification of biological sounds. Interface design implications for acoustic annotation are discussed.
Bearing witness: A grounded theory of the experiences of staff at two United Kingdom Higher Education Institutions following a student death by suicide
Authors: Causer Hilary , Bradley Eleanor , Muse Kate , Smith Jo
Published: May 2021

Wider networks of people are affected by a suicide death than originally thought, including those whose job-role brings them into contact with a death by suicide of another person. The impact of student suicide within United Kingdom (UK) Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is unexplored and the experiences of staff members remain unknown. It is not known whether staff members have specific postvention needs following a student death by suicide. Any postvention support currently offered to staff members within UK HEIs lacks a context-specific evidence base. This study asked ‘How is a student suicide experienced by staff members within a UK HEI and what are the features of that experience?’ Staff members from diverse job-roles in two UK HEIs responded to a qualitative survey (n = 19) and participated in semi-structured interviews (n = 10). Data were transcribed and subjected to a constructivist grounded theory analysis. Participants’ experiences informed the development of a core category: ’Bearing witness’, which encompassed six further categories: ’Responding to a student suicide’; ’Experiencing a student suicide’; ’Needs and fears’; ’Experiences of support’; ’Human stories’; and ’Cultural stories’. The resulting grounded theory demonstrates how participants’ perceptions of impact are informed by their experiences of undertaking tasks following a student suicide within the community of their HEI. Processes of constructing perceptions of closeness to the student who died are evident amongst participants who did not know the student prior to their death. Tailored postvention support is required to respond to the range and complexity of HEI staff needs following a student death by suicide.
Enhanced pigment content estimation using the Gauss-peak spectra method with thin-layer chromatography for a novel source of natural colorants
Authors: Twardowska Natalia Paulina
Published: May 2021

Alternative pigment sources that are harmless to human health and can be produced in an eco-responsible way are of great research interest. The experiments undertaken in this study were conducted using autumn leaves of Aesculus hippocastanum as potential novel colorant sources. This study focused on improving the Gauss-peak spectra method (a less expensive alternative to high-pressure liquid chromatography) in combination with thin-layer chromatography, leading to the development of a new methodology. The collected leaves were stored at two different temperatures: 20°C and −20°C. The data obtained by spectrophotometric scanning of the samples were analyzed using the Gauss-peak spectra method in the R program with three wavelength ranges: 350–750 nm, 390–710 nm, and 400–700 nm. The results were then assessed for statistically significant differences in the estimated concentrations for the different wavelength ranges regarding (1) total pigment, carotenoid, and chlorophyll concentration (two-sample t-test) and (2) concentration of each indicated pigment (two-way analysis of variance). The results were also tested for differences between the estimated concentrations of samples stored under the different conditions. The Gauss-peak spectra results with and without thin-layer chromatography were statistically compared using a paired t-test. The results showed that thin-layer chromatography greatly enhanced the efficiency of the Gauss-peak spectra method for estimating the major and minor pigment composition without generating high additional costs. A wavelength range of 400–700 nm was optimal for all Gauss-peak spectra methods. In conclusion, the proposed method is a more successful, inexpensive alternative to high-pressure liquid chromatography.
De la muerte del autor a la muerte del legislador. La interpretación constitucional desde el derecho como literatura
Authors: Campos Zamora Francisco J.
Published: May 2021

La finalidad del presente trabajo es mostrar cómo los estudios interdisciplinarios entre los campos del derecho y la literatura pueden contribuir con el debate, en torno a la interpretación jurídica y al papel de aquello que realmente tienen los operadores jurídicos en la decisión de cuestiones constitucionales. En un primer momento, se reseñan los posibles puntos de encuentro entre derecho y literatura, así como las distintas manifestaciones que estos pueden adoptar. Luego, desde el derecho como literatura, se examina la propuesta semiológica de Roland Barthes, específicamente su teoría acerca de «La muerte del autor». Finalmente, se muestra cómo el instrumental por él acuñado constituye una de las herramientas, que mejor describe la mecánica de la actual interpretación constitucional en algunos ordenamientos jurídicos, desembocando en lo que denominaremos como «La muerte del legislador».
Using glycerin with chitosan extracted from shrimp residue to enhance rumen fermentation and feed use in native Thai bulls
Authors: Seankamsorn Anuthida , Cherdthong Anusorn , So Sarong , Wanapat Metha
Published: May 2021

Background and Aim: Crude glycerin is changed to propionate in the rumen, while chitosan can be used as a feed supplement to increase propionic acid concentration and decrease methane (CH4) production. We hypothesized that supplementation with a combination of a high level of crude glycerin with chitosan could have a beneficial effect on ruminal fermentation and mitigate CH4 production. This study aimed to explore the combined effects of crude glycerin and chitosan supplementation on nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, and CH4 calculation in native Thai bulls.

Materials and Methods: Four 2-year-old native Thai bulls, weighing 150±20 kg, were kept in a 2×2 factorial arrangement in a 4×4 Latin square design. Factor A represented the incorporation of crude glycerin at 10.5% and 21% of the dry matter (DM) of a total mixed ration (TMR), and factor B represented the supplementation of chitosan at 1% and 2% DM of a TMR.

Results: Increasing levels of crude glycerin at 21% decreased DM intake by 0.62 kg/day compared with 10.5% crude glycerin (p<0.05), whereas nutrient digestibility did not change (p>0.05). The incorporated crude glycerin and supplemented chitosan levels did not affect the pH, temperature, concentrations of ammonia-nitrogen, microbial population, and blood urea nitrogen (p>0.05). Supplemented chitosan and incorporated crude glycerin did not show any interaction effects on the molar portions and total volatile fatty acids (VFAs), except estimated CH4. Increasing the incorporated crude glycerin levels increased propionate and decreased the ratio of acetate to propionate ratio, whereas levels of butyrate, acetate, and total VFAs were unchanged. The combination of crude glycerin at 21% in the TMR with chitosan at 2% reduced CH4 estimation by 5.08% compared with the other feed treatment.

Conclusion: Increasing incorporated crude glycerin levels in a TMR significantly elevated the propionate concentration, whereas combining 21% crude glycerin in the TMR diet with 2% chitosan supplementation could depress CH4 estimation more effectively than adding one of these supplements alone.
Artículo Argumentativo: Aprendizajes Ubicuos y Telemedicina
Authors: Rojas Torres Edgar Franklin
Published: May 2021

Communication and media are globally increasing; they require the possibility and ability to consume information, but also to produce knowledge. Any person can create and spread information through technological devices, so that the teaching-learning system runs in any space and moment. This phenomenon is called ubiquity. Currently, portable devices allow access to a world full of information, becoming part of our “clothing”, conceives an access like never before, because when faced with a request for information, there will always be a way to access it. Digital spaces, through interaction with many people, offer us valuable opportunities for distributed creativity and the generation of new knowledge. Thus, users not only present themselves as consumers of information, but also as content producers, acquiring an active role in the construction of knowledge. Ubiquity has also reached the field of medicine, where the medical practice is incorporated through technological means, making an important difference with habituality. Telemedicine makes development possible through collective benefit; however it is still necessary to unlearn some traditional paradigms while generating stimulation for learning and progress of new habits in the scientific community, taking care of the legal and human aspects in the exercise of their practice. KEYWORDS: TELEHEALTH, TELEMEDICINE, TECHNOLOGY, COMMUNICATION, KNOWLEDGE.
Downregulation of circ_0037655 impedes glioma formation and metastasis via the regulation of miR-1229-3p/ITGB8 axis
Authors: Zou Wenhui , Cao Yalei , Cheng Kai , Li Changyu , Zhu Fu , Yang Shumao , Jin Maolin , Song Shaojun
Published: May 2021

Background

Glioma is the most frequent, highly aggressive primary intracranial malignant tumor. Circular RNA (circRNA) circ_0037655 has been reported to be a vital regulator in glioma. The different functional mechanism behind circ_0037655 was investigated in the current study.

Methods

The expression of circ_0037655, microRNA-1229-3p (miR-1229-3p) and integrin beta-8 (ITGB8) was detected via the quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Cellular research was performed via colony formation assay for cell proliferation, flow cytometry for cell cycle and cell apoptosis, scratch assay for cell migration, as well as transwell assay for cell migration and invasion. Western blot was used for detection of ITGB8 protein and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was implemented for the binding analysis of potential targets. In vivo assay was administered via xenograft in mice.

Results

Upregulation of circ_0037655 was affirmed in glioma samples and cells. Tumor formation and metastasis of glioma were inhibited after circ_0037655 was downregulated. miR-1229-3p acted as a target of circ_0037655, and its upregulation was responsible for the function of si-circ_0037655 in glioma cells. miR-1229-3p functioned as a tumor inhibitor in glioma progression by targeting ITGB8. circ_0037655 modulated the ITGB8 expression by targeting miR-1229-3p. In vivo knockdown of circ_0037655 also suppressed glioma tumorigenesis by acting on the miR-1229-3p/ITGB8 axis.

Conclusion

This study showed that downregulation of the expression of circ_0037655 could inhibit glioma progression by acting on the miR-1229-3p/ITGB8 axis. The specific circ_0037655/miR-1229-3p/ITGB8 axis was disclosed in glioma research.
Morphological structures and histochemistry of roots and shoots in Myricaria laxiflora (Tamaricaceae)
Authors: Li Linbao , Wu Di , Zhen Qiaoling , Zhang Jun , Qiu Liwen , Huang Guiyun , Yang Chaodong
Published: May 2021

Myricaria laxiflora (Tamaricaceae) is an endangered plant that is narrowly distributed in the riparian zone of the Three Gorges, along the Yangtze River, China. Using bright-field and epifluorescence microscopy, we investigated the anatomical and histochemical features that allow this species to tolerate both submerged and terrestrial environments. The adventitious roots of Myr. laxiflora had an endodermis with Casparian bands and suberin lamellae; the cortex and hypodermal walls had lignified thickenings in the primary structure. In the mature roots, the secondary structure had cork. The apoplastic barriers in stems consisted of a lignified fiber ring and a cuticle at the young stage and cork at the mature stage. The leaves had two layers of palisade tissue, a hyaline epidermis, sunken stomata, and a thick, papillose cuticle. Aerenchyma presented in the roots and shoots. Several Myr. laxiflora structures, including aerenchyma, apoplastic barriers in the roots and shoots, were adapted to riparian habitats. In addition, shoots had typical xerophyte features, including small leaves, bilayer palisade tissues, sunken stomata, a thick, papillose cuticle, and a hyaline epidermis. Thus, our study identified several anatomical features that may permit Myr. laxiflora to thrive in the riparian zone of the Three Gorges, China.
Synthesis and crystal structure of N,N′-bis(4-chlorophenyl)thiourea N,N-dimethylformamide
Authors: Odularu Ayodele T. , Ajibade Peter A. , Oyedeji Opeoluwa O. , Mbese Johannes Z. , Puschmann Horst
Published: May 2021

This study is about the synthesis of N,N′-bis(4-chlorophenyl)thiourea N,N-dimethylformamide (C16H17Cl2N3OS) compound. Single crystals of the compound were obtained by slow evaporation of N,N′-bis(4-chlorophenyl)thiourea (C13H10Cl2N2S) in N,N-dimethylformamide (C3H7NO; DMF) through recrystallization under mild condition. Important classical N–H⋯O links the two molecules together. Results revealed that C16H17Cl2N3OS crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/c with the respective cell parameters of a = 92,360 (4) Å, b = 7.2232 (3) Å, 25.2555 (11) Å, β = 91.376 (3), α = γ = 90°, V = 1684.40 (12) Å3, T = 119.94 (13) K and Z = 4 and Z′ = 1.
Quantitative analysis of volatile compounds of four Chinese traditional liquors by SPME-GC-MS and determination of total phenolic contents and antioxidant activities
Authors: Wang Kai , Ma Bowen , Feng Tao , Chen Da , Yao Linyun , Lu Jun , Sun Min
Published: May 2021

The aim of this work was to investigate the volatile compositions of four Chinese functional liquors. For this purpose, volatile compounds of four liquors were extracted with head-space solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and analyzed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) along with the determination of odor activity value (OAV) and relative odor contribution (ROC). Sixty volatiles were tentatively identified and categorized into the following seven groups: alcohols, esters, fatty acids, carbonyl compound, hydrocarbons, phenols, and other components. The differences in chemical composition of volatile compounds were visualized with heat maps. Odorants were compared with different samples using a statistical analysis of Venn diagrams and a multivariate principal component analysis, and ethyl hexanoate, ethyl acetate, and ethyl octanoate were found to be the key odorants. Besides, abundant phenolic contents and high antioxidant ability of four Chinese functional liquors could potentially bring better health-boosting effects.
Funicularity in elastic domes: Coupled effects of shape and thickness
Authors: Accornero Federico , Carpinteri Alberto
Published: May 2021

An historical overview is presented concerning the theory of shell structures and thin domes. Early conjectures proposed, among others, by French, German, and Russian Authors are discussed. Static and kinematic matrix operator equations are formulated explicitly in the case of shells of revolution and thin domes. It is realized how the static and kinematic matrix operators are one the ad-joint of the other, and, on the other hand, it can be rigorously demonstrated through the definition of stiffness matrix and the application of virtual work principle. In this context, any possible omission present in the previous approaches becomes evident. As regards thin shells of revolution (thin domes), the elastic problem results to be internally statically-determinate, in analogy to the case of curved beams, being characterized by a system of two equilibrium equations in two unknowns. Thus, the elastic solution can be obtained just based on the equilibrium equations and independently of the shape of the membrane itself. The same cannot be affirmed for the unidimensional elements without ‚exural stiffness (ropes). Generally speaking, the static problem of elastic domes is governed by two parameters, the constraint reactions being assumed to be tangential to meridians at the dome edges: the shallowness ratio and the thickness of the dome. On the other hand, when the dome thickness tends to zero, the funicularity emerges and prevails, independently of the shallowness ratio or the shape of the dome. When the thickness is finite, an optimal shape is demonstrated to exist, which minimizes the flexural regime if compared to the membrane one.
Zhuangzi, Peirce, and the butterfly dreamscape: concentric meaning in the Qiwulun 齊物論
Authors: Pelkey Jamin
Published: May 2021

Waking from a vivid dream, the sage finds himself lost between worlds of possibility and ultimately transformed. Zhuangzi’s famous butterfly story may seem familiar, but the text-linguistic structures of its broader interpretive context are little discussed and poorly understood. In this paper I argue that theQíwùlùn齊物論 chapter, like so many other ancient writings, is composed in a concentric, chiastic pattern, with sections in each half mirroring each other throughout, while the central sections provide a pivotal peak and interpretive key that radiate meaning back out to the margins. To quote Mary Douglas, “the meaning is in the middle.” The middle is also the place of Peircean Thirdness. In this paper I map the chapter’s text-level chiastic structures and trace its intimations of Peircean semiotic pragmatism. The core rings of the text endorse contrite fallibilism while also prefiguring triadic structure, the pragmatic maxim, and the continuity thesis. Referencing cultural and historical contexts plus recent scholarship on Zhuangzi and Peirce, I ultimately argue that this ancient text, like the pragmatist semiotic it foreshadows, can be better appreciated and applied by embracing the interplay of centers and margins, discarding debilitating ideologies, and waking up to new degrees of freedom.
STEM investigations of the influence of copper on alumina scale detachment during in-situ wetting experiments of Al-7Si-0.3Mg alloy with 95Sn-5Cu filler metal
Authors: Vayyala Ashok , Aretz Anke , Bobzin Kirsten , Wietheger Wolfgang M. , Hebing Julian , Iskandar Riza , Mayer Joachim , Schmidt Alexander
Published: May 2021

Aluminum alloys have a strong tendency to form alumina layers on their surfaces when exposed to atmospheric air, even at room temperature. This is a severe challenge for brazing aluminum alloys as the alumina layer acts as a diffusion barrier and hinders the interactions between the filler metal and the base material. In order to achieve a good metallurgical bond between the filler metal and the aluminum alloy, it is of crucial importance to remove the alumina layer as well as to simultaneously prevent further oxidation of the aluminum alloy.

The current investigation focuses on the detailed micro-structural changes that occur during in-situ brazing of liquid filler metal, 95Sn-5Cu (wt.%) on an aluminum alloy, Al-7Si-0.3Mg. These in-situ studies were performed in a large chamber scanning electron microscope in order to monitor the interactions of the filler metal and the base material, particularly the role of Cu on alumina detachment. After the in-situ experiments, the local surface and cross-sectional regions were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy in conjunction with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to understand the variation in chemistry across the wetted region, which includes the interfacial region between filler metal and the base material. As the alumina scale present on the aluminum alloy is very thin (<50 nm), nanoscale characterization techniques such as transmission electron microscopy in scanning mode, including selected area electron diffraction for crystal structure determination, were performed. From this investigation, it was found that the Cu in liquid filler metal diffuses into the base material via the oxide layer, resulting in the formation of Al2Cu intermetallic precipitates.
GazeWheels: Recommendations for using wheel widgets for feedback during dwell-time gaze input
Authors: Fernandez Misahael , Mathis Florian , Khamis Mohamed
Published: May 2021

We present GazeWheels: a series of visual feedback methods for dwell-based gaze input in the form of a wheel that is filled gradually until target selection. We evaluate three variations: Resetting, Pause & Resume and Infinite GazeWheel, and study how dwell duration and visual feedback position (co-located vs remote) impact performance. Findings from a user study (N = 19) show that Infinite and Pause & Resume GazeWheels are error prone but significantly faster than Resetting GazeWheel even when including error correction time. We conclude with five design recommendations.
The formulation and efficacy of topical Dorema ammoniacum in treating Melasma: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Javedan Kani , Hydarpur Fatemeh , Mohammadi Pour Pardis , Najafi Fariba , Mirzaeei Shahla , Rahimi Roja , Gravandi Mohammad Mehdi , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein
Published: May 2021

Objectives

An acquired melanin-related hyperpigmentation that occurs in sun exposure areas is Melasma which presents as gray-brown ridges and macules with prominent margins on the skin. The aim of this assay was to assess the formulation and efficacy of topical Dorema ammoniacum among Melasma patients.

Methods

This study was a 30 days double-blind, randomized clinical trial in Melasma with a placebo group. The study was carried out on 49 patients with Melasma attending Haji Daii Nursing Center in Kermanshah, Iran. Optimized topical formulation of D. ammoniacum gum extract was prepared by evaluating the characteristics of different topical formulations of this plant. Mean Melasma severity index (MMASI) instrument was applied to assess the product effectiveness and to determine the skin stains. Patients were pursued to receive the treatment throughout the 30 days trial. This scaling was accomplished before the intervention and 30 days after the use of the herbal product. To analyze the quantitative variables, t-test and Mann–Whitney test were evaluated by SPSS 21 software, and p-value <0.05 was considered as the statistically significant.

Results

The survey was performed on 40 female subjects (81.6%) and nine male subjects (18.4%) with the mean age of 32.18 ± 8.69. According to the results, the mean MSI in the drug group was significantly lower than before treatment and decreased from 86.98 ± 69.48 to 31.03 ± 32.62 (p-value <0.05).

Conclusions

In compliance with findings this survey revealed a positive effect of the cream formulation of D. ammoniacum extract on Melasma. As it was represented no side effects, this formulation is appropriate for the treatment of Melasma.
The effects of psychological counseling and acupressure based on couple therapy procedure for alleviation of vomiting and nausea in pregnant women in Iran country
Authors: Saadatnia Sahar , Tiznobaik Azita , Saber Amir
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Nausea and vomiting have psychological negative effects on some pregnant women during gestation. Different strategies have been used for the treatment of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, such as acupressure and psychological interventions. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of psychological counseling and acupressure based on couple therapy procedures on vomiting and nausea in pregnant women in Iran.

Methods

Two hundred and eight women were divided into four groups (n=52): 1) they did not any intervention (control group), 2) they received the psychological intervention, 3) they received acupressure intervention, and 4) they received a combination of psychological + acupressure interventions. To investigate the effects of interventions on nausea and vomiting, the Rhodes index of nausea, vomiting and retching were used. The counseling period has lasted for 4 weeks. The pressure intervention on the site was conducted in clockwise form for 1 min and anticlockwise form for another 1 min.

Results

Groups did not have a significant difference for abortion and income (p>0.05). The effects of counseling, and acupressure interventions on severity and period of vomiting and nausea were not significant (p>0.05), but the intervention based on counseling and acupressure decreased severity of vomiting and nausea (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The intervention based on counseling and acupressure could not reduce nausea and vomiting during the gestation, but the intervention based on a combination of both decreased nausea and vomiting. It can be suggested to apply an intervention based on a combination of counseling and acupressure in short-time period for decreasing nausea and vomiting in women during pregnancy.
Effect of Arjun

Ch

āl on cardiovascular risk factors – a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Saleem Saima , Ansari Abdul Haseeb , Ansari Aysha
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Cardiovascular diseases have a multifaceted, it causes modern epidemic; Recognizing in the risk factor stage, is crucial, given the risk of progression to cardiovascular disease. Ibn Sīnā, described CVDs as a resultant of gradual derangement of Quwwat ghādhiya (Nutritive faculty); in which management with ghidhā’ (diet), tadābīr (regimens), dawā’ (drug) has been received. To evaluate the effect of Arjun Chāl (Terminalia arjuna) in CVD risk factors. And to evaluate the drug safety.

Methods

This is a randomized controlled clinical trial. Total 120 patients were screened at OPD of NIUM hospital, Bangalore during 2018–19, only 48 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and signed written informed consent and their detailed medical history was recorded. Arjun Chāl powder (5 gm BD) for eight weeks administered in test group (n=24), Amlodipine (5 mg) and Atorvastatin (10 mg) once a day for same duration administered in control group (n=24). Efficacy of the drug assessed by the Lipid profile, BP and BMI; lipid profile were performed at baseline and at 8 weeks, while BP and BMI performed at baseline, 15, 30, 45, and 60th day intervals. Study was completed by 40 patients. The results of both the therapies were then compared and statistically analyzed.

Results

Totally, both groups reduces assessment parameters i.e. statistically highly significant (p<0.001). Test group showed greater reduction in terms of all assessment parmeters. But, the difference between both the groups was statistically non-significant p>0.05.

Conclusions

Both test and control drugs were effective, but Arjun Chāl had a slight edge over amlodipne and atorvastatin, and was found to be safe and well tolerated. It has a cardio protective potential and hence effective to delay/prevent CVD in patient with cardiovascular risk factor.Keywords: Unani System of Medicine; T. arjuna; Arjun Chāl; Efficacy; Safety; Cardiovascular risk factor.
The anti-cancer properties of neem (Azadirachta indica) through its antioxidant activity in the liver: its pharmaceutics and toxic dosage forms. A literature review
Authors: Iman Maryam , Taheri Mohammadreza , Bahari Zahra
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The neem (Azadirachta indica) have been used in herbal medicine for the treatment of multiple diseases, particularly cancer. The mechanism of anti-cancer properties of neem are far from clear. However, it is well accepted that anti-cancer effects of neem is mediated via its hepatic anti-oxidant activity. In the present review, we are going to classify in vitro and in vivo studies about anti-cancer activity of neem via its hepatic anti-oxidant activity. We also summarize its active ingredients and some therapeutic and toxic dosage forms.

Methods

A systematic search in the literature was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, as well as Google Scholar pre-print database using all available MeSH terms for neem, A. indica, anti-cancer, anti-tumor, carcinogen, liver, antioxidant activity, neem ingredients, and glutathione. Electronic database searches combined and duplicates were removed.

Results

The neem plant have been used in herbal medicine for the treatment of various diseases, particularly cancer. The mechanisms of anti-cancer effects of neem are far from clear. Cancerous cells growth can induce imbalance the oxidant and anti-oxidant activity in various organs particularly in the liver. Therefore, it seems that neem have anti-cancer effects via restore of the antioxidant disturbances close to the control ones in the liver. Additionally, administration of neem extract can induce oncostatic potential via several mechanism including; suppression of the NF-κβ pathway, increased expression of tumor suppressor (such as p53 and pTEN), decreased expression of oncogenes (such as c-Myc), and increased apoptosis in cancerous cells. The median lethal dose (LD50) value for extracts of neem was higher than 2,500 mg/kg.

Conclusions

It is suggested that neem plays pivotal role in the prevention and treatment of cancer via its hepatic antioxidant activity. Indeed, application of neem extract can decreased tumor growth via restore of the antioxidant disturbances close to the control ones in the liver.
Non-Equilibrium Molecular Dynamics Study of the Influence of Branching on the Soret Coefficient of Binary Mixtures of Heptane Isomers
Authors: Chen Xiaoyu , Liang Ruquan , Wu Lichun , Cui Gan
Published: May 2021

Equimolar mixtures composed of isomers were firstly used to investigate the molecular branching effect on thermal diffusion behavior, which was not disturbed by factors of molecular mass and composition in this work. Eight heptane isomers, including n-heptane, 2-methylhexane, 3-methylhexane, 2,2-dimethylpentane, 2,3-dimethylpentane, 2,4-dimethylpentane, 3,3-dimethylpentane and 3-ethylpentane, were chosen as the researched mixtures. A non-equilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD) simulation with enhanced heat exchange (eHEX) algorithm was applied to calculate the Soret coefficient at

T
=
303.15

T=303.15

 K and

P
=
1.0

atm

P=1.0\hspace{0.1667em}\text{atm}

. An empirical correlation based on an acentric factor was proposed and its calculation coincides with the simulated results, which showed the validity of the NEMD simulation. It is demonstrated that the isomer with higher acentric factor has a stronger thermophilic property and tends to migrate to the hot region in the heptane isomer mixture, and the extent of thermal diffusion is proportional to the difference between the acentric factors of the isomers.
Arne Bjerhammar- a personal summary of his academic deeds
Authors: Sjöberg L. E.
Published: May 2021

Arne Bjerhammar is well known worldwide mainly for his research in physical geodesy but also for introducing a new matrix algebra with generalized inverses applied in geodetic adjustment. Less known are his developments in geodetic engineering and contributions to satellite and relativistic geodesy as well as studies on the relation between the Fennoscandia land uplift and the regional gravity low. Most likely part of his research has contributed to worldwide political relaxation during the cold war, which deed was honored by a certificate of achievement awarded by the Department of Research of the US army as well as the North Star Order by the King of Sweden.

Arne Bjerhammar’s pioneer scientific production, in particular on a world geodetic system, towards what would become GPS, as well as relativistic geodesy, is still of great interest among the worldwide geodetic community, while the memories and spirit along his outstanding academic deeds have more or less fainted away from his home university (KTH) only a decade after he passed away.
NDRG2 inhibition facilitates angiogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jianlong , Li Tao , Ma Lifeng , Liu Guochao , Wang Guiying , Kang Jiansheng
Published: May 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an angiogenesis-dependent tumor, and angiogenesis plays pivotal roles in progression and hematogenous metastasis. Upregulating NDRG2 expression could inhibit endothelial cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis. However, the development of angiogenesis is a complicated and dynamic process, and the specific mechanisms that NDRG2 influences its progression are largely unknown. Conditioned media (CM) was collected from HCC cells. Cell viability, migration assay, tube formation, and western blot were used to evaluate the effect of NDRG2 on angiogenesis in HCC cells. ELISA assay was used to measure the level of VEGFA in CM. CM from NDRG2 knockdown cells significantly promoted HUVECs proliferation, migration, and tube formation compared with control cells. The level of VEGFA in CM was increased by NDRG2 knockdown relative to the control group. The expression of VEGFA, HIF-1α, and p-Akt was significantly increased in NDRG2 knockdown cells. CM from NDRG2 knockdown cells with VEGFA antibody failed to induce HUVEC proliferation, migration, and tube formation. YC-1 significantly inhibited the level of VEGFA in CM from NDRG2 knockdown cells. YC-1 also inhibited the expression of VEGFA and HIF-1α. Therefore, NDRG2 inhibition promoted the angiogenesis of HCC via VEGFA and may be used to be an anti-angiogenesis target.
Nomogram prediction model for renal anaemia in IgA nephropathy patients
Authors: Li Fei , Wei Ri-bao , Wang Yang , Su Ting-yu , Li Ping , Huang Meng-jie , Chen Xiang-mei
Published: May 2021

In this study, we focused on the influencing factors of renal anaemia in patients with IgA nephropathy and constructed a nomogram model. We divided 462 patients with IgA nephropathy diagnosed by renal biopsy into anaemic and non-anaemic groups. Then, the influencing factors of renal anaemia in patients with IgA nephropathy were analysed by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and multivariable logistic regression, and a nomogram model for predicting renal anaemia was established. Eventually, nine variables were obtained, which are easy to apply clinically. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and precision-recall (PR) curve reached 0.835 and 0.676, respectively, and the C-index reached 0.848. The calibration plot showed that the model had good discrimination, accuracy, and diagnostic efficacy. In addition, the C-index of the model following internal validation reached 0.823. Decision curve analysis suggested that the model had a certain degree of clinical significance. This new nomogram model of renal anaemia combines the basic information, laboratory findings, and renal biopsy results of patients with IgA nephropathy, providing important guidance for predicting and clinically intervening in renal anaemia.
Die Begrenzung überragender Marktmacht digitaler Plattformen im deutschen und europäischen Wettbewerbsrecht
Authors: Haucap Justus , Schweitzer Heike
Published: May 2021

In diesem Beitrag beschreiben Justus Haucap und Heike Schweitzer die wesentlichen Änderungen im deutschen Kartellrecht, die in Bezug auf die Begrenzung der Marktmacht digitaler Plattformen mit der 10. Novelle des Gesetzes gegen Wettbewerbsbeschränkungen (GWB) im Januar 2021 verabschiedet wurden. Diese Änderungen vergleichen sie mit den Vorschlägen für einen Digital Markets Act (DMA), welche die Europäische Kommission im Dezember 2020 vorgelegt hat. Zudem erörtern sie das Problem der sogenannten Killerakquisitionen, auf das weder die GWB-Novelle noch der Vorschlag für einen DMA eingeht.
Semen testis expressed protein 101 and spermatid-specific thioredoxin reductase 3 levels may be biomarkers in infertile male
Authors: Erbayram Fatma Zehra , Menevse Esma , Dursunoglu Duygu
Published: May 2021

Objectives

We aimed to determine the differences between normozoospermic and oligozoospermic individuals according to levels of spermatid-specific thioredoxin reductase 3 (SPTRXR3/STRX3/TXNDC8/TXNRD3) and testis expressed protein 101 (TEX-101), and to evaluate the correlations between spermiogram data and biochemical parameters.

Methods

The study was carried out at the Andrology Laboratory of Medicine Faculty of Selcuk University. Two groups were designed: Group 1: Normozoospermia (n=40, sperm concentration ≥ 15 million/mL), Group 2: Oligozoospermia; (n=40, sperm concentration < 15 million/mL). Seminal plasma SPTRXR3 and TEX-101 levels were analyzed with ELISA method. Spermiogram analysis was evaluated according to WHO 2010 Kruger criteria.

Results

TEX-101 protein levels were significantly different in normozoospermia (2.12 ± 0.08 ng/mL) compared to oligozoospermia (1.55 ± 0.04 ng/mL). SPTRXR3 levels (6.98 ± 0.46 ng/mL) were higher in oligozoospermia than normozoospermia (3.07 ± 0.35 ng/mL). Both TEX-101 and SPTRXR3 levels were correlated statistically with most of the spermiogram parameters.

Conclusions

High SPTRXR3 and low TEX-101 levels may be a biomarker in evaluation of male infertility. The relations between spermiogram parameters indicates that results present a new clinical approach in biology of oligozoospermic male.
The role of zonulin in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Sirin Fevziye Burcu , Korkmaz Hakan , Torus Bora , Bozkurt Mustafa , Kumbul Doguc Duygu
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To evaluate serum levels of zonulin and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients complicated by diabetic retinopathy and to investigate the effect of intestinal permeability on diabetic retinopathy (DR) progression.

Materials and Methods

Eighty-nine patients with T2DM and 30 healthy controls aged between 18 and 80 years were enrolled. T2DM patients were grouped as without DR (n=30), with non-proliferative DR (n=29), and with proliferative DR (n=30). Serum zonulin and IL-6 levels were measured with the ELISA method.

Results

Zonulin levels showed no statistical difference by pairwise comparisons of groups, but IL-6 levels were significantly increased in non-proliferative and proliferative DR groups compared to the HC and without DR groups. Zonulin level was correlated with body mass index and IL-6 level; IL-6 level was correlated with duration of diabetes, fasting blood glucose and HbA1c. While duration of diabetes and serum IL-6 levels had an independent effect on DR development, zonulin had no effect.

Conclusions

Serum zonulin levels cannot be used as a biomarker for the progression of the diabetic retinopathy complication.
Ayahuasca-Tourismus in Peru: Motivationen und subjektive Bedeutungen bei Teilnehmern von Ayahuasca-Retreats im oberen Amazonasgebiet
Authors: Wolff Tom John
Published: May 2021

Ayahuasca ist ein stark psychoaktiver Trank des Amazonas-Regenwaldes, der zu einem florierenden Tourismus aus den industrialisierten Ländern ins ländliche Peru geführt hat. In einer teilnehmenden Beobachtung und qualitativen Befragung von Teilnehmern von traditionalisierten Ayahuasca-Seminaren im Regenwald werden Motive und subjektive Bedeutungen mittels qualitativer Inhaltsanalyse herausgearbeitet und in Beziehung zum sogenannten Pilgertourismus gestellt.
Fül-, Orr-, Gégegyógyászat: Gyakorlatos könyv magyar orvostanhallgatók részére
Authors: Lujber László
Published: May 2021

Fül-orr-gégészeti betegvizsgálat valójában a fej-nyaki régió komplex áttekintését jelenti, amelybe beletartozik a fül, az orr, a melléküregek, a szájüreg, a garat, a gége, a trachea felső harmadának, a nyaki régióknak, valamint az agyidegek morfológiai és funkcionális vizsgálata is. A vizsgálatához az alapműszereken kívül speciális eszközökre és diagnosztikus beavatkozásokra van szükség. A könyv szakszerűen, lépésről-lépésre írja le a vizsgálatok menetét, módszerét és indikációit. A normál anatómiai leírások mellett, fotókkal gazdagon illusztrálja a különféle kórfolyamatokat. Minden fejezet végén webes hivatkozás útján, vagy QR kód segítségével okostelefonon azonnal nézhető videófilmek segítségével mutatja be a vizsgálatok szakszerű menetét. A könyv elsődleges célja, hogy mint oktatási segédanyag megkönnyítse az orvostanhallgatók fül-orr-gége vizsgára való felkészülését, emellett azonban, a rezidensek, szakvizsgajelöltek, és szakorvosok számára is jól használható gyakorlati ismeretanyaggal segítheti a gyakorló orvos munkáját.
Amelioration of Bauxite Residues by Sequential Slurry Carbonation
Authors: Kuntikana Ganaraj , Syed Sayeeda , Singh Devendra Narain , Pandit Sagar S. , Kapuri Nageswar
Published: May 2021

The safe handling, storage, disposal, and use of the bauxite residues (BRs) has become a bug bear to alumina refineries not only because of the enormous quantity that gets generated but also because of its characteristics, namely, extremely high alkalinity and sodicity. One of the ways to negotiate with this situation would be to “neutralize the BRs,” a hypothesis that would transform them into a nonhazardous (chemically less or partially inert) material that could be used as a man-made resource for its bulk utilization in various infrastructure development and agronomical projects. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this hypothesis, BRs from an alumina refinery of India were collected in their slurry form and neutralized by resorting to sequential slurry carbonation (SSC) technique. The SSC was achieved by employing (1) gaseous phase carbon dioxide, CO2, and (2) synthetic flue gas, which has a composition like that of stack gases produced from the industries. The study observed a sharp decline in pH of the BRs slurry in the initial phase of treatment, which lasted for 120 min, and the formation of neutralized BRs, designated as NBRs. The exposure, when continued beyond 120 min to 1,440 min, yielded NBRs that exhibit almost constant pH. The exposure of NBRs to the atmosphere resulted in a pH rebound with time.
"Sleeve" Sinus of Valsalva Repair in Patients with Acute Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Song Laichun , Gao Yang , Xu Ming , Wang Bo , Li Xiaoyong , Wang Xiao
Published: May 2021

Purpose: The optimal surgical strategy of aortic root in acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of “Sleeve” Sinus of Valsalva repair for AAD limited to the non-coronary sinus or partial left and right coronary sinus without involvement coronary artery ostia.
Methods: From September 2016 to March 2019, 20 patients with AAD involving non-coronary sinus or partial left and right coronary sinus Valsalva underwent “Sleeve” Sinus of Valsalva repair. A tailored Dacron patch was inserted into the dissected layers and two Dacron strips were placed inside and outside of the aorta, and the new five-layers root was sutured with 3/0 prolene continuous stitches. The artificial vessel was reversed about 1cm and anastomosed with the reconstructed root. Then, the reversed artificial vessel was pulled and anastomosed with the Dacron strip of the new proximal aorta.
Results: There was no early death in hospital and one death occurred during the 30-day postoperative period. Re-thoracotomy due to bleeding was necessary in only one patient and no bleeding was related to the proximal anastomosis. The postoperative drainage was 390.5 ± 229.3 mL. During follow up, the echocardiography showed the normal sinus of Valsalva and aortic valvular function. Computed tomography angiography showed normal aortic root without endovascular leak or dissection around the sinus of Valsalva. All patients were free from reoperation.
Conclusions: “Sleeve” Sinus of Valsalva repair with Dacron patch for aortic dissection limited to the non-coronary sinus or partial left and right coronary sinus without involvement coronary artery ostia was technically feasible and safe.
Surgeons’ Preference for Off-Pump or On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery
Authors: Fan Guangpu , Wang Xuan , Chen Chen , Liu Jing , Chen Yu
Published: May 2021

Background: Surgeon’s preference is an important factor in clinical strategy for off-pump (OPCAB) or on-pump (ONCAB) coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. This study analyzed surgeons’ understanding of and propensity for both techniques.
Methods: A survey was performed by self-reported questionnaire. Two sections were included: Q1 questionnaire investigated each surgeon’s opinion on the indications of OPCAB and ONCAB; and Q2 questionnaire investigated each surgeon’s choice of OPCAB or ONCAB in different clinical situations.
Results: The questionnaires were sent to 169 surgeons. In Q1, 71.2% of surgeons indicated that the degree of overlap between the indications of OPCAB and ONCAB is >70%; 55.1% believed that OPCAB had a wider scope of indications than ONCAB, and 35.3% believed that ONCAB had a wider scope of indications than OPCAB. In Q2, >70% of surgeons who responded chose OPCAB for patients with the following characteristics: high risk of stroke, renal dysfunction, pulmonary dysfunction, malignancy, clotting and coagulation disorders, or age ≥80 years. More than 57.5% of surgeons chose ONCAB for patients with poor target vessels or ventricular enlargement and dysfunction. For novice surgeons, 87.5% of surgeons chose ONCAB.
Conclusion: Most surgeons surveyed agreed that OPCAB and ONCAB are suitable for most patients; however, surgeons’ preference for ONCAB or OPCAB varied. Surgeons are more willing to choose ONCAB in the presence of complicated heart conditions and OPCAB in the presence of serious concomitant diseases.
Green design of a cellulosic butanol supply chain network: A case study of sorghum stem bio-butanol in Missouri
Authors: Liang Li , Quesada Henry J.
Published: May 2021

Cellulosic butanol is a very promising renewable fuel to consider for the future transportation market. However, the seasonal availability of the raw materials, high maintenance cost, and high logistical cost of the biomass energy supply chain are the main factors impeding the commercialization and large-scale-production of this energy source. Furthermore, research focusing on an environmental or green supply chain network design of cellulosic butanol has been insufficient. This study focused on designing a green supply chain network for cellulosic butanol. A life cycle analysis was integrated into a multi-objective linear programming model to optimize the cellulosic butanol supply chain network. With the objectives of maximizing the economic profits and minimizing the greenhouse gas emissions, the proposed model can optimize the location and size of a bio-butanol production plant. The mathematical model was applied to a case study in the state of Missouri, and solved the tradeoff between the feedstock and market availabilities of sorghum stem bio-butanol.