bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Microalbuminuria and Glycosylated Hemoglobin in the Assessment of Diabetes Control in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Hospitalized with Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Kavthekar Saiprasad Onkareshwar , Mali Vijay Tukaram , Verma Sachin , Kurane Anil Bapurao , Patil Nivedita Balasaheb , Panditrao Kulkarni Suhas
Published: June 2021

Background: Microalbuminuria is thought to be an early predictor of impending diabetic nephropathy, while glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a biochemical marker of long-term glycemic control in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of microalbuminuria and its association with HbA1c on admission and duration of diabetes. Also, changes in HbA1c level on admission and three months after admission were studied to assess diabetes control in children with T1DM. Methods: This prospective study was conducted among 38 children (< 18 years) diagnosed with TIDM presenting with clinical signs, symptoms, and biochemical parameters of DKA. The presence of microalbuminuria, HbA1c level, and the number of past episodes of DKA were recorded. HbA1c level was again estimated after three months. The resultant data was tabulated and analyzed statistically (P < 0.05). Results: Microalbuminuria and poor HbA1c control were observed in 18% and 60% of the sample population, respectively. A significant association was found between HbA1c > 9% (P = 0.032) and the duration of diabetes > 4 years (P = 0.032) and microalbuminuria. Significant improvement in glycemic control was noted from the time of admission to three months after admission (9.76 ± 2.77 vs. 7.75 ± 1.28; P = 0.00012). A significant difference was observed between past DKA episodes according to HbA1c control (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Microalbuminuria assessment is needed in T1DM children, especially those with HbA1c > 9% and duration of diabetes > four years, to evaluate diabetic nephropathy. Good glycemic control can be achieved with effective insulin therapy accompanied by appropriate counseling and regular follow-up.
Evaluation of Cephalometric Standards for Zanjanian Population According to Downs' Analysis
Authors: Khaleghi Katayoon , Nourian Azin , Ghorbankhan Pooya , Farzan Arash
Published: June 2021

Background: Following the morphological features of different races and ethnic groups, knowledge of standard dentofacial patterns of each ethnic group is essential. Therefore, this study aimed to explain cephalometric standards for the Zanjanian population according to Downs' analysis and compare them to Caucasian individuals. Methods: Seventy lateral cephalometries of Zanjanian adults (17 - 29 years old) who had been referred to a private orthodontic office in Zanjan, Iran with class I molar and canine relationship and normal overjet and overbite as well as minimum crowding/spacing/rotations were scanned and traced with the Novatech scanner and Dolphin software version 10. Next, statistical analyses were performed in order to compare the Zanjanian population to Caucasians. Results: We found a significant difference between males and females in terms of interincisal angle, incisor-occlusal angle, incisor-mandibular plane angle, upper incisor proclination, facial angle, and angle of convexity. Discussion: The analysis of six statistically significant parameters indicates that the upper and lower incisors in women of Zanjan were proclined and protruded compared with those of Caucasian subjects. Due to the statistical analysis on facial angle and angle of convexity, women also show more maxillary prognathism and skeletal class II pattern. Generally, a comparison of Zanjanian population cephalometrics based on Downs' analysis showed an increase in maxillary prognathism, maxillary and mandibular incisal protrusion and posterior rotation of the mandible. Conclusions: In conclusion, the Zanjanian population tends to have more dental and skeletal class II patterns than the Caucasians. In addition, gender comparison indicates lower and upper-incisors protrusion in women of Zanjan.
The Place of Forensic Linguistics in the Resolution of Trademark Conflicts: Case of DOUBLEMINT & DOUBIEMLNT
Authors: Sadi-Makangila Patrick , Sabira Yesdauletova
Published: June 2021

Forensic linguistics focusing on word choice and spelling, it can be useful while resolving language crime, trademark infringement, and so forth. In our days, trademarks are one of the most infringed intellectual properties in the world in terms of values. Trademark could be a single word, a combination of words and symbols, design, or logo that distinguishes a company or products from others in the industry. When someone acquires a registered trademark, he is granted an exclusive right to its usage and it strongly prohibits other organizations from using it. This paper shows the way an expert in Forensic Linguistics should use his skill and knowledge to handle the conflict among similar trademarks. From brand name (how it is written, upper-cases or lower-cases, how many letters make this brand name, how it sounds, how it looks like, and so forth) to logo (design, usage of colors, sharp and so forth). The expert in Forensic Linguistics will try to find out scientific evidence that may help judges in decision-making. The present study scrutinized the place of forensic linguistics in the resolution of trademark conflicts, the scientific techniques, and methodologies utilized to analyze the similarities and differences between the trademarks in conflict. This research showed the importance of associating an expert in Forensic Linguistics in the Community Trademark conflicts in order to come up with a conclusion based on scientific evidence; the place of forensic linguistics and other related disciplines in revolving the issues of trademark infringement.
Explore the Natural Beauty of Robert Frost’s in his Poetry
Authors: Rashid Md. Harun , Jaber Husain Haider , Islam Jahirul , Sipahi Esra , Hui Wang
Published: June 2021

Nature is the most excellent attribute of Robert Frost’s poetry. Frost has a profound affection and compassion towards animals. However, traditional rural life is not the main focus of Frost’s poetry. Frost reflects mostly on the extraordinary struggle that has taken place in the natural environment. His poems typically begin with the observation of Nature and continue to connect with the human psychological condition. According to Frost, Nature is not just a source of joy but also an impetus of human intelligence. People should be educated by thought, such that Nature is the main character in his poetry rather than only a backdrop.
Technology Use and Technology-Related Learning Experiences as Perceived by Indonesian Tertiary EFL Students
Authors: Sofendi - , Inderawati Rita , Vianty Machdalena
Published: June 2021

Research aiming at investigating Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) has been extensively conducted and measured by TPACK instruments developed in the context of ESL (English as a Second Language). Therefore, research within the context of EFL (English as a Foreign Language) and which applies a TPACK instrument specifically designed for the EFL context can give a significant contribution to the field of study. This study was conducted to map the TPACK of thirty-three EFL students at a teacher training institution in South Sumatera (Indonesia) by using a TPACK questionnaire specifically designed to map ICT-related learning experiences of Indonesian EFL students. The result of the analysis was presented in terms of the students’ TPACK perceptions concerning five domains: Technological Knowledge (TK), Technological Content Knowledge (TCK), Technological Pedagogical Knowledge (TPK), Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPCK), and Technology-Related Learning Experience (TLE).
Evaluating the Impact of the delivery of Synthetic Phonics Teaching on the Acquisition of Upper and Lowercase Recognition Skills of Omani Third Graders
Authors: Al-Sukaiti Noora , Al-Bulushi Ali
Published: June 2021

Letter name knowledge is regarded as being among the soundest indicators of later reading skill and an imperfectly established alphabetic knowledge is a well-known predictor of future reading challenges. Hence, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a synthetic approach to phonics, specifically Jolly Phonics (JP), to determine its contribution to Omani third graders’ acquisition of uppercase (UC) and lowercase (LC) recognition. The study sample consisted of 117 Omani male and female third graders in two cycle one schools in Al-Dhahira Governorate in the Sultanate of Oman during the academic year 2019/2020. The study employed a quantitative descriptive research design, in which data was collected using an UC and LC letter recognition test. The findings revealed that the although the third graders in this study’s sample have on average achieved the JP programme’s objective in terms of UC and LC letter recognition skills, not all students have achieved the minimum required level in this literacy skill; whereby 43.6% of the students were below the minimum required level and the remaining 56.4% of students were at or above the minimum required level. Besides, there was a statistically significant difference between third graders’ scores in UC letter recognition and LC recognition in favour of UC letters. The study concluded with a set of recommendations for the MOE and English teachers, in order to develop the delivery of synthetic phonics teaching as a literacy-enhancing approach, namely JP, in the Omani context. To the best of the researchers’ knowledge, this study is important for being the first to evaluate the impact of the delivery of synthetic phonics teaching (i.e. JP programme) on the acquisition of upper and lowercase recognition skills among Omani EFL third graders since the programme’s implementation in 2014.
Timberlake Wertenbaker’s After Darwin: Identity and Ethics in the Interplay of Theatre and Science
Authors: Anahit Kazzazi Seyedeh
Published: June 2021

After the success of Michael Frayne’s Copenhagen in 1998, a surge of interest was ignited among playwrights in writing about science by merging form and content to convey scientific ideas in a theatrical way. One of the best examples of the use of this interdependence of formal and thematic properties to theatrically communicate science is Timberlake Wertenbaker’s After Darwin. Wertenbaker introduces different aspects of the theory of evolution such as mutation, natural selection, extinction, and the survival of the fittest into the structure of the play to reveal the impact of Darwinism on the construction of identity and ethical imperatives in modern world. This study shows how these aspects of Darwinism are built into the structure of After Darwin, with reference to Wertenbaker’s treatment of identify and ethics. Prior studies have discussed ethics, identity, and evolution as separate entities. This study examines them as a single, integrated whole to reveal their interconnectedness and their significance in the theatrical and structural conveyance of science in After Darwin.
Code Mixing on Menu Brochure In Cafes and The Implications for Tourist Attractions, in Bandung, INA
Authors: Melliany Puspa R Vindy , Alamsari Fuji
Published: June 2021

The aims of this study was to describe the types of code mixing used by café managers, to find out the respond of the consumers, the motivation of managers to use code mixing on menu brochure and the implications to attract many tourists to come to the cafes. The method used in this research, is the qualitative method. The researchers found data by colleting the menu, identifying types of code mixing, analyzing the implications of code mixing for tourist attractions. The results of this study are two kinds of code mixing in phrases and clauses. The respond of the constumers have positive responses. They like the menu brochure that used a mix of Indonesian and English. In addition, the motivation of café managers used the code mixing in menus to attract consumers’ interest, adjust to the currents conditions in society and to use it in learning media. The use of code mixing English into Indonesian on the menu brochure has some implications to ease the visitors for understanding the menu offered, the effectiveness of using English in menu content, and to help managers to attract visitors to enjoy culinary tourism.
Islam and English Learning in Australia: Female Learners Working Through Differences
Authors: Abdilah Hassan
Published: June 2021

The study examines the way Islamic religion and culture influence Muslim immigrant women’s participation in English learning programs in Australia. It presents a narrative of three married Iraqi Muslim Immigrant Women’s (IMIW) experiences in both mainstream mix-gender and women-only English classes in Melbourne. Two data collection methods were employed, in-depth interviews and a focus group discussion, to generate data from the participants. The findings show that the participants struggled to cope with mixed-gender classes due to some social, cultural and religious attributes including familiarity with single-gender settings, family commitments and the culture of their community. The paper presents recommendations for the Australian government to pay more attention to women-only classes to stimulate immigrant women to English learning courses.
A Training to Enhance Oral Communication Strategies for Spanish Leaners of English
Authors: Benali Taouis Hanane , López Pérez Sidoní
Published: June 2021

This experimental study investigates the use of oral communication strategies (CSs) by Spanish learners of English and the effect of the conducted oral CSs training on the subjects’ use of the CSs. This study is adding value to the fields of teaching and communication by including a training on the use of communication strategies instead of observation. It also counts with data collected from a total of 116 participants and 464 protocols including 2 high and 2 low proficient groups. Our subjects took part in a training on CSs before setting a pre and post-test (interview and storytelling). To compare the results of the use of CSs before and after the training for each of the levels and also manage a cross-sectional comparison between the groups, the researchers used the Canonical Biplot free program. The results of this empirical study proved the effectiveness of the CSs training. It also confirmed that the high proficient group benefited more from the training when compared to the low proficient students.
Translation by Omission and Translation by Addition In English-Arabic Translation with Reference to Consumer-oriented Texts
Authors: Alrumayh Alhanouf
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study is to identify translation by omission and translation by addition procedures within the area of consumer-oriented texts in English-Arabic translation texts of in-flight magazine articles. Nida’s (1964) techniques of adjustment that include both additions and subtractions are adopted to verify the goals of the translation in this study, along with Dickins et al. (2017) and Vinay and Darbelnet (1995) as main references for understanding the theoretical scope of the two notions. Findings show that both procedures could be regarded as general traits in translating consumer-oriented texts from English to Arabic and vice versa.
Secular Writers’ Engagement with Religious Tradition in 20th Century Iran: From Undermining to Deconstructing; A Generational Paradigm Shift
Authors: Hosnieh Elham
Published: June 2021

The present article is an attempt to conceptually discuss the development of modern secular approaches to religious tradition in contemporary Iran through the lenses of literary works. Throughout the paper, secularism has been understood as in the notion of “changes in the conditions of belief”, proposed by Charles Taylor. With José Casanova’s reading of Taylor’s conception, secularism becomes equivalent to a gradual construction of new and contextually specific images of the self and society, different from European narrative of religious decline. Accordingly, this article revisits the category of the Iranian ‘secular’ writer by looking into the trajectory of the Iranian literature field and its shifting relation to religion, itself influenced by the change in how secularism is understood within the field, during the 20th century. The paper argues that the 1979 revolution and its aftermath led to a paradigm shift in the writers’ conception of secular engagement with the religious tradition when compared with the first and second generation of writers. The first generation of Iranian secular writers mostly undermined the religious tradition as outdated rituals, and the second generation made a return to it as an authentic part of the Iranian identity under the local and global socio-political influences. The third generation went beyond such rejection/embrace narratives, came to see the religious tradition as a constructed cultural legacy, and engaged in re-reading and deconstructing that legacy in new secular ways.
Universality and Language Specificity: Evidence from Arab and English Proverbs
Authors: Mohammed Turki Mahyoub Qaid , Ho-Abdullah Imran
Published: June 2021

All languages have proverbs that reflect their community’s attitudes, thoughts, values, and beliefs. Similarities between proverbs of different languages can be accounted for in cognitive semantics as motivated by shared human experience and universal schemas. At the same time, differences in the proverbs can be linked to the general idea of cultural diversity and hence language specificity in proverbs. This paper investigates twelve Arabic proverbs from a cognitive semantics viewpoint to determine their underlying schemas. The main aim is to arrive at a better understanding of the universal and language-specific nature of the Arabic proverbs. The methodology employed in the analysis is to explicate and determine, utilizing a cognitive semantics framework, whether the twelve Arabic proverbs have literal equivalence in English with shared schemas. In this regard, the Arabic proverbs and their English counterparts that have shared schemas are evidence for universality. While Arabic proverbs that have no literal equivalence in English and hence no shared schemas are good candidates in support of language specificity. Some of the proverbs might have shared schema but still, exhibit some variations that could be a manifestation of diversity of values and cultural background. Based on the analysis presented in this study, the Arabic proverbs examined fall into three categories: (i) proverbs that demonstrate universal construals; (ii) proverbs that demonstrate universal construal with variations; and (iii) proverbs that demonstrate language-specific construals.
Translation Approaches in Rendering Names of Tourist Sites
Authors: LO Siowai
Published: June 2021

This article identifies the translation approaches adopted in the translation of names of tourist sites in China and examines how ‘fame’ and ‘popularity’ may influence these approaches. Upon analyzing a corpus of scenic site names, it is found that ‘pure phonetic’, ‘phonetic (name) + semantic (class)’, ‘pure semantic’, and ‘phonetic (location) + semantic (name) are the four major patterns in the translations of site names. On the whole, the data shows that phonetic translation is dominant over semantic translation. Meanwhile, ‘fame’ and ‘popularity’ have great impact on the translated names of scenic sites. The findings also suggest that a phonetic translation approach is preferred in rendering names of world-famous sites whereas a semantic translation approach is more frequently used for the name translation of sites located in places with higher popularity. The conflicting results reflect China’s struggle between preserving its cultural flavor for the sake of national identity and catering to foreign visitors for the benefit of the country’s tourism development.
Two‐Photon Absorption Induced Cancer Immunotherapy Using Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Yang Lei‐Lei , Zhang Liang , Wan Shu‐Cheng , Wang Shuo , Wu Zhi‐Zhong , Yang Qi‐Chao , Xiao Yao , Deng Hexiang , Sun Zhi‐Jun
Published: June 2021

Immune checkpoint blockade therapy is revolutionizing the traditional treatment model of multiple tumor types, but remains ineffective for a large subset of patients. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been shown to induce cancer cell death and provoke an immune response, and may represent a potential strategy to synergize with immune checkpoint blockade therapy. However, the limited tissue penetration of exciting light for conventional PDT largely hinders its application in the clinic and its further combination with immunotherapy. Here, a serrated packing covalent organic framework (COF), COF‐606, with excellent two‐photon absorption (2PA) property and photostability, largely avoids aggregation‐caused quenching, therefore offering high reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation efficiency; it is used as a 2PA photosensitizer for PDT in deep tumor tissue. COF‐606 induced PDT is shown to be efficient in inducing immunogenic cell death, provoking an immune response and normalizing the immunosuppressive status for the first time. This makes it possible to combine 2PA induced PDT using COF with programmed cell death protein 1 immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Such combination leads to strong abscopal tumor‐inhibiting efficiency and long‐lasting immune memory effects, standing as a promising combinatorial therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
The Bottlenecks of Cs2AgBiBr6 Solar Cells: How Contacts and Slow Transients Limit the Performance
Authors: Sirtl Maximilian T. , Ebadi Firouzeh , van Gorkom Bas T. , Ganswindt Patrick , Janssen René A. J. , Bein Thomas , Tress Wolfgang
Published: June 2021

Cs2AgBiBr6 has attracted much interest as a potential lead‐free alternative for perovskite solar cells. Although this material offers encouraging optoelectronic features, severe bottlenecks limit the performance of the resulting solar cells to a power conversion efficiency of below 3%. Here, the performance‐limiting factors of this material are investigated in full solar cells featuring various architectures. It is found that the photovoltaic parameters of Cs2AgBiBr6‐based solar cells strongly depend on the scan speed of the J/V measurements, suggesting a strong impact of ionic conductivity in the material. Moreover, a sign change of the photocurrent for bias voltages above 0.9 V during the measurement of the external quantum efficiency (EQE) is revealed, which can be explained by non‐selective contacts. The radiative loss of the VOC from sensitive subgap‐EQE measurements is calculated and it is revealed that the loss is caused by a low external luminescence yield and therefore a high non‐radiative recombination, supported by the first report of a strongly red shifted electroluminescence signal between 800 and 1000 nm. Altogether, these results point to a poor selectivity of the contacts and charge transport layers, caused by poor energy level alignment that can be overcome by optimizing the architecture of the solar cell.
Tailoring the Energy Funneling across the Interface in InSe/MoS2 Heterostructures by Electrostatic Gating and Strain Engineering
Authors: Sun Zhao‐Yuan , Li Yang , Xu Bo , Chen Hao , Wang Peng , Zhao Shou‐Xin , Yang Li , Gao Bo , Dou Xiu‐Ming , Sun Bao‐Quan , Zhen Liang , Xu Cheng‐Yan
Published: June 2021

As a representative 2D semiconductor in the III–VI family, indium selenide (InSe) retains both high carrier mobility and direct bandgap even down to few‐layer limit. However, it exhibits relatively weak light absorption of normally incident light due to its unique optical anisotropy different from transition metal dichalcogenides, significantly impeding its optoelectronic applications. Herein, it is demonstrated that the light emission of InSe can be enhanced by a maximum of 2.5 times via energy funneling effect in MoS2/InSe type‐I heterostructures, the band alignment and charge transfer process of which are explored by optical spectroscopic technique, Kelvin probe force microscopy, and optoelectronic measurements. The energy funneling effect in MoS2/InSe heterostructure is not only significantly tuned by electrostatic gating, but also preserves high efficiency upon applying a uniaxial tensile strain up to 0.52%, making it appropriate for both rigid and flexible superior optoelectronic devices. Besides, the charge transfer at the heterointerface in MoS2/InSe changes from funneling to exciton dissociation via layer engineering of MoS2, with a maximum hole transfer rate of 9 × 108 s−1 from InSe to MoS2. This work provides approaches to tune the charge transfer across the van der Waals heterointerface, giving rise to promising applications in quantum optoelectronics.
Professionals' Views on Responding to County Lines‐Related Criminal Exploitation in the West Midlands, UK
Authors: Olver Kristen , Cockbain Ella
Published: June 2021

While certainly not a new phenomenon, the exploitation of children and vulnerable adults in ‘county lines’ drug distribution and sales now attracts considerable attention and concern. In this study, we explored professionals' perspectives on understandings of and responses to this issue in the West Midlands, UK. We conducted in‐depth interviews with 11 participants from policing, prosecution, government and the third sector. Participants typically saw county lines‐related exploitation as insufficiently understood, especially where individuals are both victimised and commit offences are concerned. They also characterised responses as hampered by factors such as variable use of legislation, inconsistent intelligence sharing and insufficient resources – particularly to support vulnerable people. More robust multiagency collaboration could help address these issues, although it also involves challenges. Our exploratory study focuses on criminal justice responses to county lines‐related exploitation in particular, a relatively narrow set of professionals and one specific geographical location, meaning findings must not be overextended. Nevertheless, it provides novel insights into a complex, important and understudied phenomenon. We situate the work against the broader literature on exploitation, drawing parallels with child sexual exploitation and ‘modern slavery’ that could inform further research.

‘Provides novel insights into a complex, important and understudied phenomenon’

Key Practitioner Messages

The term ‘county lines’ may obscure the complexities and harms of criminal exploitation of children and vulnerable adults in this context.

There can be a challenging interplay between victimisation and offending. Although those exploited have agency, they also often face obvious power imbalances and heavily constrained choices.

Enforcement alone is insufficient: addressing vulnerabilities and complex needs is vital from a preventative perspective.

Improved training on the use and applicability of relevant legislation would likely support investigations and prosecutions.

Implementing and abiding by a consistent framework for information sharing could facilitate more effective responses.
Comparative study of bacterial microfiltration in the implant‐abutment interface, with straight and conical internal connections, in vitro
Authors: Carlos Larrucea V. , C. Carlos Navarro , SM. Karina Larrucea , K. Sunil Boda , E. Carlos Padilla , G. Olga Lobos
Published: June 2021

Objective

to determine the presence of marginal bacterial microfiltration in the IAI in different implant/abutment systems, in vitro.

Material and methods

Fifty‐six implants from seven different brand names, 4 with cone and 3 with straight connections were used, implant and abutment were connected using the Ncm tightening as indicated by each of the manufacturers and then were sealed. The samples were subjected occlusal load and thermal cycling, a first sample of each group was observed by micro CT and in a second sample (both samples randomly selected) length of connection was measured, while the rest of the samples were mounted on devices according to the bacterial microfiltration model with Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Results

Two of the conical connection system groups did not present bacterial microfiltration, one of the three straight connection groups only microfiltered in one sample, while the other two conical as well as the two straight connection samples showed different and important levels of bacterial microfiltration, all groups presented a direct relationship between the implant‐abutment adjustment determined by micro‐CT and bacterial microfiltration levels, not related to the connection length.

Conclusion: Only two conical connection systems presented no bacterial microfiltration.
Diet and temperature modify the relationship between energy use and ATP production to influence behavior in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Le Roy Amélie , Mazué Geoffrey P. F. , Metcalfe Neil B. , Seebacher Frank
Published: June 2021

Food availability and temperature influence energetics of animals and can alter behavioral responses such as foraging and spontaneous activity. Food availability, however, is not necessarily a good indicator of energy (ATP) available for cellular processes. The efficiency of energy transduction from food‐derived substrate to ATP in mitochondria can change with environmental context. Our aim was to determine whether the interaction between food availability and temperature affects mitochondrial efficiency and behavior in zebrafish (Danio rerio). We conducted a fully factorial experiment to test the effects of feeding frequency, acclimation temperature (three weeks to 18 or 28°C), and acute test temperature (18 and 28°C) on whole‐animal oxygen consumption, mitochondrial bioenergetics and efficiency (ADP consumed per oxygen atom; P:O ratio), and behavior (boldness and exploration). We show that infrequently fed (once per day on four days per week) zebrafish have greater mitochondrial efficiency than frequently fed (three times per day on five days per week) animals, particularly when warm‐acclimated. The interaction between temperature and feeding frequency influenced exploration of a novel environment, but not boldness. Both resting rate of producing ATP and scope for increasing it were positively correlated with time spent exploring and distance moved in standardized trials. In contrast, behavior was not associated with whole‐animal aerobic (oxygen consumption) scope, but exploration was positively correlated with resting oxygen consumption rates. We highlight the importance of variation in both metabolic (oxygen consumption) rate and efficiency of producing ATP in determining animal performance and behavior. Oxygen consumption represents energy use, and P:O ratio is a variable that determines how much of that energy is allocated to ATP production. Our results emphasize the need to integrate whole‐animal responses with subcellular traits to evaluate the impact of environmental conditions on behavior and movement.
Leveraging the NEON Airborne Observation Platform for socio‐environmental systems research
Authors: Ordway Elsa M. , Elmore Andrew J. , Kolstoe Sonja , Quinn John E. , Swanwick Rachel , Cattau Megan , Taillie Dylan , Guinn Steven M. , Chadwick K. Dana , Atkins Jeff W. , Blake Rachael E. , Chapman Melissa , Cobourn Kelly , Goulden Tristan , Helmus Matthew R. , Hondula Kelly , Hritz Carrie , Jensen Jennifer , Julian Jason P. , Kuwayama Yusuke , Lulla Vijay , O’Leary Donal , Nelson Donald R. , Ocón Jonathan P. , Pau Stephanie , Ponce‐Campos Guillermo E. , Portillo‐Quintero Carlos , Pricope Narcisa G. , Rivero Rosanna G. , Schneider Laura , Steele Meredith , Tulbure Mirela G. , Williamson Matthew A. , Wilson Cyril
Published: June 2021

During the 21st century, human–environment interactions will increasingly expose both systems to risks, but also yield opportunities for improvement as we gain insight into these complex, coupled systems. Human–environment interactions operate over multiple spatial and temporal scales, requiring large data volumes of multi‐resolution information for analysis. Climate change, land‐use change, urbanization, and wildfires, for example, can affect regions differently depending on ecological and socioeconomic structures. The relative scarcity of data on both humans and natural systems at the relevant extent can be prohibitive when pursuing inquiries into these complex relationships. We explore the value of multitemporal, high‐density, and high‐resolution LiDAR, imaging spectroscopy, and digital camera data from the National Ecological Observatory Network’s Airborne Observation Platform (NEON AOP) for Socio‐Environmental Systems (SES) research. In addition to providing an overview of NEON AOP datasets and outlining specific applications for addressing SES questions, we highlight current challenges and provide recommendations for the SES research community to improve and expand its use of this platform for SES research. The coordinated, nationwide AOP remote sensing data, collected annually over the next 30 yr, offer exciting opportunities for cross‐site analyses and comparison, upscaling metrics derived from LiDAR and hyperspectral datasets across larger spatial extents, and addressing questions across diverse scales. Integrating AOP data with other SES datasets will allow researchers to investigate complex systems and provide urgently needed policy recommendations for socio‐environmental challenges. We urge the SES research community to further explore questions and theories in social and economic disciplines that might leverage NEON AOP data.
A DDoS attack detection and defense mechanism based on the self‐organizing mapping in SDN
Authors: Zhao Kaixin , Lu Bo , Shi Hongyu , Ren Gang , Zhang Yang
Published: June 2021

Since the emergence of Software Defined Network (SDN), it has been widely concerned by the academia and the industry. However, Distributed Denial of Attack (DDoS) can pose a threat to the SDN. Many papers use machine learning algorithms to detect DDoS attacks in SDN, trying to find a balance between detection accuracy and processing time. The purpose of this paper is to propose a DDoS attack detection and defense mechanism based on the Self‐Organizing Mapping (SOM) under SDN environment. The experimental results show that this mechanism can not only maintain the proper precision, but also reduce the processing time. In addition, it can also restore port communication.
Impact of YTHDF1 gene polymorphisms on Wilms tumor susceptibility: A five‐center case‐control study
Authors: Liu Yanfei , Lin Huiran , Hua Rui‐Xi , Zhang Jiao , Cheng Jiwen , Li Suhong , Zhou Haixia , Zhuo Zhenjian , Bian Jun
Published: June 2021

Background

Wilms tumor is the most frequent renal malignancy in children. YTHDF1 is associated with the development of several kinds of cancers, yet whether common variants of the YTHDF1 gene influence Wilms tumor risk is unknown. We present, here, a hospital‐based case‐control study specifically designed to investigate the role of YTHDF1 genetic variants on Wilms tumor.

Methods

We successfully genotyped samples of 408 Wilms tumor cases and 1198 controls which were collected from five hospitals across China. The unconditional logistic regression was adopted to analyze the contributions of YTHDF1 gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to the risk of Wilms tumor. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were generated to evaluate the conferring risk of YTHDF1 gene SNPs (rs6011668 C>T, rs6090311 A>G).

Results

Neither of the two SNPs could contribute to the risk of Wilms tumor. A negative association was also detected in the combined effects of protective genotypes on Wilms tumor risk. The stratification analysis revealed that compared with those with CC genotype, rs6011668 CT/TT genotype was associated with increased Wilms tumor risk in those ≤18 months (OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.02–2.30, p = 0.038), and with decreased Wilms tumor risk in those >18 months (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.50–0.97, p = 0.034).

Conclusion

Our present work sheds some light on the potential role of YTHDF1 gene polymorphisms on Wilms tumor risk.
The SCI of $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 USp(2Nc) and SO(Nc) SYM as a matrix integral
Authors: Amariti Antonio , Fazzi Marco , Segati Alessia
Published: June 2021

Abstract

We study the superconformal index of 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 USp(2Nc) and SO(Nc) SYM from a matrix model perspective. We focus on the Cardy-like limit of the index. Both in the symplectic and orthogonal case the index is dominated by a saddle point solution which we identify, reducing the calculation to a matrix integral of a pure Chern-Simons theory on the three-sphere. We further compute the subleading logarithmic corrections, which are of the order of the center of the gauge group. In the USp(2Nc) case we also study other subleading saddles of the matrix integral. Finally we discuss the case of the Leigh-Strassler fixed point with SU(Nc) gauge group, and we compute the entropy of the dual black hole from the Legendre transform of the entropy function.
Mediterranean diet adherence amongst adolescents in North Lebanon: the role of skipping meals, meals with the family, physical activity and physical well-being
Authors: Mitri Rosy N. , Boulos Christa , Ziade Fouad
Published: June 2021

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is a model of a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle. Adherence to the MD has been correlated with a reduction in many metabolic disorders including cancers. The factors associated with adolescents’ adherence to the MD in North Lebanon using the KIDMED index have never been explored. Therefore, we thought to examine these factors amongst a sample of them. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the city of Tripoli, North Lebanon. A total of 798 adolescents aged 11–18 years were randomly selected to participate in this study. All participants completed a questionnaire assessing adherence to the MD (KIDMED index), physical activity (physical activity questionnaires for older children and adolescents), health-related quality of life (KIDSCREEN-27 index) and sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, grade level and parents’ educational status). Anthropometric measurements, including weight, height and waist circumference, were also collected. Adherence to the MD was good amongst only 13·3 % of the adolescents. The prevalence rate of overweight and obesity was elevated, affecting 36·9 % of the students. Lower adherence to the MD was significantly correlated with skipping meals (P = 0·001). Meanwhile, adolescents who were engaged in a high level of physical activity, those who consumed more meals with their families and those who benefited from better physical well-being had a better diet quality (P < 0·001). Nutrition intervention programmes, as well as public health policies, would be of interest in order to improve diet quality amongst Lebanese adolescents.
Overview of the central amygdala role in feeding behaviour
Authors: Izadi Mina Sadat , Radahmadi Maryam
Published: June 2021

The neural regulation of feeding behaviour, as an essential factor for survival, is an important research area today. Feeding behaviour and other lifestyle habits play a major role in optimising health and obesity control. Feeding behaviour is physiologically controlled through processes associated with energy and nutrient needs. Different brain nuclei are involved in the neural regulation of feeding behaviours. Therefore, understanding the function of these brain nuclei helps develop feeding control methods. Among important brain nuclei, there is scant literature on the central amygdala (CeA) nucleus and feeding behaviour. The CeA is one of the critical brain regions that play a significant role in various physiological and behavioural responses, such as emotional states, reward processing, energy balance and feeding behaviour. It contains γ-aminobutyric acid neurons. Also, it is the major output region of the amygdaloidal complex. Moreover, the CeA is also involved in multiple molecular and biochemical factors and has extensive connections with other brain nuclei and their neurotransmitters, highlighting its role in feeding behaviour. This review aims to highlight the significance of the CeA nucleus on food consumption by its interaction with the performance of reward, digestive and emotional systems.
Cultivation and characterization of primordial germ cells from blue layer hybrids (Araucana crossbreeds) and generation of germline chimeric chickens
Authors: Altgilbers Stefanie , Klein Sabine , Dierks Claudia , Weigend Steffen , Kues Wilfried A.
Published: June 2021

The chicken (Gallus gallus) is one of the most common and widespread domestic species, with an estimated total population of 25 billion birds worldwide. The vast majority of chickens in agriculture originate from hybrid breeding programs and is concentrated on few commercially used high performance lines, whereas numerous local and indigenous breeds are at risk to become extinct. To preserve the genomic resources of rare and endangered chicken breeds innovative methods are necessary. Here, we established a solid workflow for the derivation and biobanking of chicken primordial germ cells (PGCs) from blue layer hybrids. To achieve this, embryos of a cross of heterozygous blue egg layers were sampled to obtain blood derived and gonadal male as well as female PGCs of different genotypes (homozygous, heterozygous and nullizygous blue-allele bearing). The total efficiency of established PGC lines was 45% (47/104) within an average of 49 days until they reached sufficient numbers of cells for cryopreservation. The stem-cell character of the cultivated PGCs was confirmed by SSEA-1 immunostaining, and RT-PCR amplification of the pluripotency- and PGC-specific genes cPOUV, cNANOG, cDAZL and CVH. The Sleeping Beauty transposon system allowed to generate a stable integration of a Venus fluorophore reporter into the chicken genome. Finally, we demonstrated that, after re-transfer into chicken embryos, Venus-positive PGCs migrated and colonized the forming gonads. Semen samples of 13 raised cell chimeric roosters were analyzed by flow cytometry for the efficiency of germline colonization by the transferred PGCs carrying the Venus reporter and their proper differentiation into vital spermatids. Thus, we provide a proof-of-concept study for the potential use of PGCs for the cryobanking of rare breeds or rare alleles.
3D monitoring of the surface slippage effect on micro-particle sedimentation by digital holographic microscopy
Authors: Panahi Majid , Jamali Ramin , Rad Vahideh Farzam , Khorasani Mojtaba , Darudi Ahamd , Moradi Ali-Reza
Published: June 2021

In several phenomena in biology and industry, it is required to understand the comprehensive behavior of sedimenting micro-particles in fluids. Here, we use the numerical refocusing feature of digital holographic microscopy (DHM) to investigate the slippage effect on micro-particle sedimentation near a flat wall. DHM provides quantitative phase contrast and three-dimensional (3D) imaging in arbitrary time scales, which suggests it as an elegant approach to investigate various phenomena, including dynamic behavior of colloids. 3D information is obtained by post-processing of the recorded digital holograms. Through analysis of 3D trajectories and velocities of multiple sedimenting micro-particles, we show that proximity to flat walls of higher slip lengths causes faster sedimentation. The effect depends on the ratio of the particle size to (1) the slip length and (2) its distance to the wall. We corroborate our experimental findings by a theoretical model which considers both the proximity and the particle interaction to a wall of different hydrophobicity in the hydrodynamic forces.
The influence of sugar–protein complexes on the thermostability of C-reactive protein (CRP)
Authors: Mateescu Andreea Lorena , Mincu Nicolae-Bogdan , Vasilca Silvana , Apetrei Roxana , Stan Diana , Zorilă Bogdan , Stan Dana
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate de influence of protein–sugar complexation on the stability and functionality of C-reactive protein, after exposure to constant high temperatures, in order to develop highly stable positive controls for in-vitro diagnostic tests. C-reactive protein is a plasmatic protein used as a biomarker for the diagnosis of a series of health problems such as ulcerative colitis, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, due to its essential role in the evolution of chronic inflammation. The sugar–protein interaction was investigated using steady state and time resolved fluorescence. The results revealed that there are more than two classes of tryptophan, with different degree of accessibility for the quencher molecule. Our study also revealed that sugar–protein complexes have superior thermostability, especially after gamma irradiation at 2 kGy, the protein being stable and functional even after 22 days exposure to 40 °C.
Electroluminescent materials toward near ultraviolet region
Authors: Chen Shuo , Xu Hui
Published: June 2021

This review summarizes the principles and development of near ultraviolet (NUV) materials and the corresponding electroluminescent devices covering all promising systems.
Natural DNA-assisted RuP2 on highly graphitic N,P-codoped carbon for pH-wide hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Jingshu , Yu Qian , Li Haibo , Li Ruiqing , Zeng Suyuan , Yao Qingxia , Guo Zengjing , Chen Hongyan , Qu Konggang
Published: June 2021

Natural DNA was first developed as phosphorization agent and carbon source, to controllably prepare RuP2 on highly graphitic N,P-codoped carbon by a facile “mix-and-pyrolyze” approach, exhibiting superior pH-wide activity for hydrogen evolution.
Effective ACE2 peptide–nanoparticle conjugation and its binding with the SARS-Cov-2 RBD quantified by dynamic light scattering
Authors: Mesias Vince St. Dollente , Zhu Hongni , Tang Xiao , Dai Xin , Guo Yusong , Liu Wei , Huang Jinqing
Published: June 2021

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is used to monitor the formation of truncated ACE2 peptide-conjugated gold nanoparticles and determine their binding constants and kinetics to SARS-CoV-2 RBD.
Full-spectrum thermal analysis in twisted bilayer graphene
Authors: Liu Wenxiang , Wu Yongqiang , Hong Yang , Hou Bo , Zhang Jingchao , Yue Yanan
Published: June 2021

The effect of twisting angle on the interfacial thermal resistance of bilayer graphene is comprehensively investigated using molecular dynamics simulation.
Selective separation of lactic, malic, and tartaric acids based on the hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents of terpenes and amides
Authors: Liu Lijuan , Su Benlong , Wei Qifeng , Ren Xiulian
Published: June 2021

The selective separation of lactic, malic and tartaric acids coexisting in broth can be improved by effectively regulating the H-bond strength and H-bond competition based on hydrophobic eutectic solvents composed of terpenes and amides.
Effect of solute polarity on extraction efficiency using deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Alshammari Odeh A. O. , Almulgabsagher Ghazi A. A. , Ryder Karl S. , Abbott Andrew P.
Published: June 2021

While ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents, DESs, have been extensively used for natural product extraction relatively little is known about the factors affecting extraction efficiency.
An experimental and computational look at the radiolytic degradation of TODGA and the effect on metal complexation
Authors: Kimberlin Ashleigh , Guillaumont Dominique , Arpigny Sylvie , Camès Béatrice , Guilbaud Philippe , Saint-Louis Georges , Galán Hitos , Berthon Laurence
Published: June 2021

A combination of Fukui function calculations with experimental characterization gives an improved understanding of the behaviour of TODGA solutions after radiolysis.
Uniform heterostructured MnOx/MnCO3/Fe2O3nanocomposites assembled in an ionic liquid for highly selective oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Chen Lifang , Lou Furong , Cheng Hongye , Qi Zhiwen
Published: June 2021

Uniform heterostructured MnOx/MnCO3/Fe2O3nanocomposites assembled in the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methyl-imidazolium chloride ([BMim]Cl) exhibit highly selective oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-diformylfuran.
MOF/COF-based materials using 3D printing technology: applications in water treatment, gas removal, biomedical, and electronic industries
Authors: Mallakpour Shadpour , Azadi Elham , Hussain Chaudhery Mustansar
Published: June 2021

We have considered the newest outcomes in the uses of 3D-printed COF- and MOF-based materials for diverse applications.