bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA-damage induced cell death in yap1;wwtr1 mutant epidermal basal cells
Authors: Lai Jason KH , Toh Pearlyn JY , Cognart Hamizah A , Chouhan Geetika , Saunders Timothy E
Published: May 2022

In a previous study, it was reported that Yap1 and Wwtr1 in zebrafish regulates the morphogenesis of the posterior body and epidermal fin fold (Kimelman et al., 2017). We report here that DNA damage induces apoptosis of epidermal basal cells (EBCs) in zebrafish yap1-/-;wwtr1-/- embryos. Specifically, these mutant EBCs exhibit active Caspase-3, Caspase-8, and γH2AX, consistent with DNA damage serving as a stimulus of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway in epidermal cells. Live imaging of zebrafish epidermal cells reveals a steady growth of basal cell size in the developing embryo, but this growth is inhibited in mutant basal cells followed by apoptosis, leading to the hypothesis that factors underscoring cell size play a role in this DNA damage-induced apoptosis phenotype. We tested two of these factors using cell stretching and substrate stiffness assays, and found that HaCaT cells cultured on stiff substrates exhibit more numerous γH2AX foci compared to ones cultured on soft substrates. Thus, our experiments suggest that substrate rigidity may modulate genomic stress in epidermal cells, and that Yap1 and Wwtr1 promotes their survival.
The spatiotemporal patterns of major human admixture events during the European Holocene
Authors: Chintalapati Manjusha , Patterson Nick , Moorjani Priya
Published: May 2022

Recent studies have shown that admixture has been pervasive throughout human history. While several methods exist for dating admixture in contemporary populations, they are not suitable for sparse, low coverage ancient genomic data. Thus, we developed DATES (Distribution of Ancestry Tracts of Evolutionary Signals) that leverages ancestry covariance patterns across the genome of a single individual to infer the timing of admixture. DATES provides reliable estimates under various demographic scenarios and outperforms available methods for ancient DNA applications. Using DATES on~1100 ancient genomes from sixteen regions in Europe and west Asia, we reconstruct the chronology of the formation of the ancestral populations and the fine-scale details of the spread of Neolithic farming and Steppe pastoralist-related ancestry across Europe. By studying the genetic formation of Anatolian farmers, we infer that gene flow related to Iranian Neolithic farmers occurred before 9600 BCE, predating the advent of agriculture in Anatolia. Contrary to the archaeological evidence, we estimate that early Steppe pastoralist groups (Yamnaya and Afanasievo) were genetically formed more than a millennium before the start of Steppe pastoralism. Our analyses provide new insights on the origins and spread of farming and Indo-European languages, highlighting the power of genomic dating methods to elucidate the legacy of human migrations.
Virgin and UV-weathered polyamide microplastics posed no effect on the survival and reproduction of Daphnia magna
Authors: Khosrovyan Alla , Kahru Anne
Published: May 2022

Although evidence suggests that microplastic (MP) particles pose a risk to organisms, the effects of virgin and weathered MP should be evaluated separately as their effects may be different. In this work, we provide new information on the toxic potential of virgin and UV-weathered polyamide, one of the commonly used plastics worldwide. Polyamide MP particles were subjected to UV-weathering in wet conditions over 26 days in a customized irradiation chamber equipped with UV-C light tubes (15 W each, max. wavelength 254 nm). The toxicity of virgin and UV-weathered polyamide MP (< 180 µm in one dimension, 100 and 300 mg L−1) was evaluated by studying Daphnia magna reproduction in natural lake water spiked with MP, following the 21-day OECD 211 test guideline. In parallel, a nonionic surfactant Tween 20 (7 mg L−1) was added to the test medium to improve the suspendability of the MP. The results of the tests showed no adverse effects of either virgin or UV-weathered polyamide MP on the reproduction of D. magna. In addition, presence of Tween 20 in the test medium had no effects on the test results. These results bring a new perspective on the potential long-term impact of polyamide particles on aquatic organisms, especially considering that the polyamide has received marginal attention in the ecotoxicological research. However, standard test endpoints (survival and reproduction) may still miss long-term adverse effects of insoluble e.g., plastic particles and additional studies may be necessary.
Diagnosis of degradation state through non-destructive tests: case study of the public building of federal education institution
Authors:   Universidade Federal de Pelotas Brazil, Silveira da Costa Vitória , Ibrahim Júnior Ronaldo Cantelmo ,   Universidade Federal de Pelotas Brazil, Azevedo de Azevedo Ângela ,   Universidade Federal de Pelotas Brazil, da Silva Torres Ariela ,   Universidade Federal de Pelotas Brazil
Published: May 2022

Historically, public buildings are not importantly addressed in Brazil, resulting in several buildings dropped to the ruins and unnecessary acquisitions of new spaces by public institutions. The present study was carried out in a building part of the extinct industrial building of the Anglo fridge in Pelotas. The main objective was to evaluate state of degradation state through non-destructive tests in a case study of a public building of Federal Education Institution. Visual analysis, damage map, measurement of nominal coverings, sclerometry tests, silver nitrate spray and phenolphthalein test were performed. The building presents worrying deterioration levels, chlorides, and carbonation presence and several stains moisture. These facts lead concrete detachment, reinforcements corrosion and losses in slabs, beams, and pillars sections.
Biochemical Investigation of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Series of seven Cases
Authors: Mane Kamalakar Bhagwat , Sawant Swati Digambar
Published: May 2022

In children, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is typically mild. However, in rare cases, children are severely affected, and clinical manifestations are differed from adults. The consequence of COVID-19; Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a rare complication that seems like toxic shock syndrome or Kawasaki Disease (KD). The MIS-C is characterised by an inflammatory response in the body that occurs four weeks after infection with the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus. Fever, rashes, diarrhoea, red eyes, and vomiting are common early symptoms that can worsen over time. The inflammation can affect the blood vessels, heart, and other organs, leaving children critically ill and in need of immediate medical attention. Many of the children with MIS-C show positive SARS-CoV-2 serology but negative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), supporting the concept that MIS-C is linked to immunological dysregulation that develops after the acute infection has passed. However, some children do have positive PCR testing. A case series of seven critically ill children with MIS-C in sequential order of admission in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of tertiary care hospital is illustrated. Key findings of this syndrome include fever, epilepsy, diarrhoea, shock and variable presence of rash. In the present case series, the clinical features, laboratory findings and therapies for a cohort of seven children with MIS-C are presented. Laboratory investigations carried out at early stage of disease can be of vital importance to diagnosis of MIS-C.
Evaluation of Some Inflammatory, Cancer Markers and Total Antioxidant Status among Cement Loaders in Port-Harcourt
Authors: Nyebuchi Jonathan , Eze Evelyn Mgbeoma , Bartimaeus Ebirien-Agana Samuel , Ken-Ezihwo Stella Urekweru
Published: May 2022

The effect of cement dust has been linked to many diseases but very few studies have been able to study the impact of cement on oxidative stress, inflammation and carcinogenesis in Port Harcourt. Therefore, this study was focus on assessing the effect of cement dust on total antioxidant status (TAS), inflammatory markers and cancer markers among cement loaders in Port Harcourt. The study was conducted in Port Harcourt among 100 cement loaders and 100 non-cement exposed individuals who made up the control group. Upon consenting to participate in the study, subjects were randomly selected for recruitment into the study. Five milliliters of blood was collected from each subject and was assayed for total antioxidant status (TAS) using enzymatic colorimetric method, IL-10, IL-1 \(\beta\) , Neuron specific Enolase (NSE), C-Reactive protein (CRP), Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A (VEGF-A) using ELISA technique. Results compared TAS, IL-10, IL-1 \(\beta\) , NSE, CRP and VEGF-A levels between cement exposed group and control group. TAS result revealed that there was a significant decrease between in the exposed group (P-value=0.0011). CRP, result revealed that there was no significant difference between both groups (P-value=0.1103). IL-10, result revealed that there was a significant decrease in the exposed group (P-value=0.0030). IL-1 \(\beta\) , result revealed that there was a significant increase in the exposed group (P-value=0.0012). VEGF-A result revealed that there was no significant difference between both groups (P-value=0.653). NSE, result revealed that there was a significant increase in the exposed groups (P-value<0.0001). This study has shown that human exposure to cement dust increases oxidative stress, affects inflammatory responses and may increase the risk of cancer among cement workers in Port Harcourt.
Combating Covid – 19 Pandemic Effect: Investing in Digital Literacy in the Teaching of English Language in Secondary Schools in Ekiti State
Authors: Jayeoba Martins Segun , Adaramodu Lucas Rotimi , Isife Gloria Uzoamaka , Opeoluwa-Fakayode Adeola Oyeyemi
Published: May 2022

It is required from the twenty first century educators and learners to have the ability to use digital technologies and communication skills in order to develop appropriate attitudes towards teaching and learning. It has been established that technology does not solve all the educational problems, but if it is used correctly, it will help teaching and learning to achieve great objective in the post COVID - 19 era. Information and communication technology has promoted the teaching and learning of English during COVID - 19.  In this 21st century, the range of technologies available for use in language learning and teaching has become very imperative and the ways that they are being used in classrooms all over the world, is relevant to language practice. This study examined the use of information and communication technological resources and the teaching and learning of English language in secondary schools. The study used a descriptive research method and the population for the study was 100 English language teachers from different secondary schools in Ekiti State. The data collected were analyzed using frequency count and simple percentages. It was therefore recommended that Nigerian government should provide adequate resources to schools, and the teachers should be trained and retrained with a view to updating their ICT skills.
Detection and Enumeration of Coliforms in Drinking Water Sources in the Selected Barangay in Santa Maria, Davao Occidental Philippines
Authors: Cambarihan Shaira D. , Patricio Emylle Ruth P. , Lumogdang Leonel P.
Published: May 2022

The study aimed to determine the presence of fecal and nonfecal coliforms in selected drinking water sources of Santa Maria, Davao Occidental. Three (3) barangays were purposively identified as sampling sites, namely: Barangay Pongpong, Barangay San Isidro, and Barangay San Roque, where spring water, Jetmatic, and manual water pump are the sources of drinking water.

The study was conducted at Sta Maria, Davao Occidental Philippines from August 2021 to December 2021.The water samples were collected aseptically from the identified reservoir in the drinking water of the selected barangay of Sta Maria, Davao Occidental. The collected samples were brought to the SPAMAST Microbiology Laboratory. One (1) mL of sample was plated aseptically in the coliform Petrifilm. The plated water samples were incubated at 35-37 degrees Celcius for 24 hours. Colonies in the Petrifilm were counted manually and recorded as colony-forming units (CFU).

Microbial analysis detected the presence of total coliforms on the drinking water reservoir from the spring water source from barangay Pongpong, manual water pump and spring water source from barangay San Isidro and the manual water pump from barangay San Roque. Meanwhile, noOccidental, Philippines. Generally, the drinking water sources of the three (3) barangays exceeded the national standard set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Periodic monitoring on the drinking water sources in the identified barangays is highly recommended.
Adsorbents Used for the Adsorptive Removal of Highly Hazardous Arsenic from Aqueous Solution: A Review
Authors: Alamrani Nasser A. , Alotaibi Yazeed Awadh Shudayyid , Alhawiti Fahad Oudah Eid , Almutairi Theyab Ali T. , Almutairi Essa Saeed F. , Albalawi Mashree Mohammad M. , Al-Aoh Hatem A. , Mustafa Syed Khalid
Published: May 2022

Millions of people worldwide are adversely affected by Arsenic continuing exposure, so providing arsenic-free consumption of water is an immense task for the researchers. The chemistry, content of arsenic-contaminated water as well as adsorption play a big role in arsenic elimination. The mechanism of adsorption technology's elimination of As (V) from the water was simply presented as the elements that govern various adsorption paths. The effects of a variety of adsorbents on As (V) elimination from aquatic were explored in the present research, which classified the materials used as adsorbents based on physical, chemical, and biological processes. When choosing an adsorbent, adsorption capability is an important factor to consider. As a result, developing As (V) elimination from aquatic adsorption strategies includes developing environmentally acceptable materials with effectual adsorption abilities, refining the preparation and alteration procedures of recent adsorbents, and boosting renewal effectiveness. After choosing a particular adsorbent for As (V) elimination from water, regional features of arsenic-polluted water, applied viability of the adsorption process, besides suitable environments of respectively material must be extensively reviewed and analyzed. The current study gives an outline of the adsorption technique to remove arsenic from wastewater, as well as the adsorption capacity of various adsorbents.
Insecticidal Activity of Five Plant Species on Cowpea Weevil [Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius)]
Authors: M. T. V. Adeleke, , A. B. Nwauzoma, , A. Elekima,
Published: May 2022

A study was conducted to evaluate the insecticidal activity of five locally available plants, namely: Azadirachta indica (Neem), Cymbopogon citratus (Lemon grass), Lantana camara (Lantana), Occimum gratissimum (Scent leaf) and Tagetes erecta (African marigold) on cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.) using the repellency, adult mortality, anti-oviposition and growth inhibition tests. Results revealed that all test materials exhibited repellency against cowpea weevils. Powdered leaves of neem and scent leaf were noted to be slightly more repellent than the others. Cowpea grains treated with powdered leaves of T. erecta exhibited the lowest mortality of the cowpea weevils. Again, A. indica and O. gratissimum treatment were most effective in anti-oviposition and growth inhibitory action, as well as adult mortality of the weevils. Some of the examined treated cowpea grains (except those treated with A. indica and O. gratissimum), had larval tunnels. The total development period of the cowpea weevils that emerged from such treated and the untreated seeds was the same (37days). Botanicals are known to have varying degrees of insect inhibition, and in this case O. gratissimum and A. indica were the most effective.
Proximate and Mineral Composition of Aerial Potato (Dioscorea bulbifera Linn) after using Different Fermentation Methods
Authors: Bukola D. A. , Akinyosoye F. A. , Akinyele B. J.
Published: May 2022

This study evaluated the nutritional value of aerial yam potato fermented with different methods and other food processing. Aerial potato was subjected to different treatments (peeled, unpeeled, peeled and blanched, unpeeled and blanched, peeled and boiled, unpeeled and boiled) before fermentation with different methods like submerged fermentation and back slope (BS) fermentation. The proximate and mineral compositions were monitored using standard methods. 

Crude Protein (%) of the peeled aerial potato significantly increased from 4.12 ±0.13 at the initial to 10.11±0.85 at the end of the fermentation while unpeeled aerial potato slightly increased from 3.66a±0.04 at the initial to 4.19±0.03 at the end of the fermentation. Peeled and blanched; unpeeled and blanched as well as the unpeeled and boiled samples had the highest iron (0.143±0.01 ppm), magnesium (6.40±0.02 ppm) and calcium (6.32±0.03 ppm) contents in fermented aerial potato sample. Generally, the different of methods of fermentation employed improved the nutrient contents of fermented aerial potato.
Safeguarding National Developments against Climate Change: Cost Implications on Sectors, Services and Assets
Authors: Atlhopheng Julius R.
Published: May 2022

The world has come to terms with the alarming impacts of climate change, and their costs which are both monetary, and non-monetary. Increasing emissions and their global warming bearings, have resulted in disequilibrium of the climate system, and the associated ecosystems. This makes mitigation (low carbon strategies) to be essential. With the current world being on a high carbon trajectory, there is need for transition. A move in the energy sector (away from fossil fuel intensity), building the right financial investments, transitions in the planning (e.g. transform market systems for sustainability), policies and livelihood choices that acknowledge limits to planetary provisions, and, to safeguard humanity. The planet is on an increasingly unfamiliar trajectory, hence uncertainty to support lives as before. However, COP26 and the IPCC 2021 report indicated shortfalls in mitigation ambitions, which are needed to bring the planet back on track. Emissions need to be cut, to realise the Paris Agreement objectives, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as climate change has far-reaching negative impacts, due to its cross-cutting nature. There are data gaps on the costs of current climate change i.e. the mitigation and adaptation costs, at national levels. The data would enable ease of implementation, build standardisation through agreed tables and formats, for accounting and reporting, and the necessary targets. Thus national plans, policies, technologies, institutional frameworks, business sector response mechanisms, and livelihood choices need to respond, so that the planet remains sustainable. The conclusions of this overview indicate that, national plans, those of private sector and of the citizenry need to escalate sustainability to a higher level. Most impacts of climate change would add to costs of production, heighten risks, and bring more uncertainty as well as negatively disrupting services and industries. The climate action needs to prioritize costs of climate change, to inform action on the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), SDGs, livelihood assets and lead to the building of right investments. These are underlined by partnerships for delivery, governance, data interventions, and inclusion, in a world which is increasingly exhibiting inequalities, and their associated vulnerabilities. All these have mitigation and adaptation costs, which need to be part of Paris Agreement compliance frameworks for Parties/nations.
Determination of Maize (Zea mays L.) Hybrids under Agro-climatic Conditions of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Jose Prince , Singh Vikram , George Shruti Grace , Singh A. C.
Published: May 2022

Worldwide Maize (Zea mays L.) is referred to as the “Miracle Crop” due to its high genetic yield potential compared to other Gramineae family members. Hybridization plays a vital role in boosting the production and productivity of maize, which is crucial for mitigating food insecurity in developing countries. To find out the best hybrid among the maize hybrids, a field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2021 at the experimental field of the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The study was conducted for “Evaluation of Maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids under agro-climatic conditions of   Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh”. The experiment was done on 10 maize Hybrids. It was carried out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The report of the study indicates that among different maize Hybrids, UM-12 produced significantly higher plant height (217.05 cm), number of leaves per plant (12.80), dry weight per plant (151.25 g), cob length (16.62 cm), number of rows per cob (14.80), number of grains per row (31.73), seed yield (8.27 t/ha) and stover yield (20.50 t/ha). Hence, it can be concluded that the Maize hybrid UM-12 was found to be the most suitable, productive and economical for the agroclimatic conditions of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
Efficacy of Hysteroscopy in Management of Premenopausal Uterine Bleeding at Tanta University Hospitals
Authors: Hegazy Dina Hegazy Mohamed , Elshwaikh Shereef Lotfy , Shoeir Hassan Tahsin , Freikha Ahmed Hussein Abou
Published: May 2022

Background: Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that may be used to analyse data and treat a variety of intrauterine and endocervical issues. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the hysteroscopic diagnostic findings and therapeutic efficacy of hysteroscopy in females with premenopausal uterine bleeding at Tanta University Hospitals.

Methods: This was a prospective cohort observational research enrolled 60 premenopausal females aged from 40 to 52 years and presented with abnormal uterine bleeding. All patients were subjugated full history taking, clinical examination (general examination, pelvic examination and abdominal examination) and investigations (laboratory tests including full blood count, thyroid, iron studies, hemostasis disorders, transvaginal ultrasound to evaluate any organic lesion and hysteroscopy).

 Results: The success rate of hysteroscope was 100% in in grade I fibroid uterus and was 30% and 0% in grade II and grade III fibroid uterus. 75% of atrophic endometrium, 71% of secretory endometrium, 50% of proliferative endometrium, 100% of hyperplastic endometrium and 100% of endometrial polyp.

Conclusions: The gold standard for diagnosing and treating abnormal uterine bleeding is hysteroscopy in the premenopausal period especially of fibroid uterus and endometrial polyp.
Wind Turbine Systematic Wake to Wake Analysis: Quantification of Turbulence and Statistical Analysis for Optimal Wind Farm Design
Authors: Mark Heather , Weerasekera Naveen , Biswas Agnimitra , Cao Siyua
Published: May 2022

Through this work, we have analyzed wake to wake interactions between horizontal axis wind turbines located in line to each other. We have quantified wake interactions based on hot wire anemometric data and statistical correlations using a model wind farm fabricated inside a wind tunnel. The results of these measurements show that a high level of turbulent kinetic energy is generated at the region of intersection between rotor and stator wakes. Numerical models of wake interactions of wind turbines under varying turbulent inflow conditions using the actuator line technique and EllipSys3D Navier-Stokes solver were carried out to resolve dynamics of wake interactions. Our results showed good agreement with field measurements of wake deficit and turbulence intensity for inline and eccentric turbine arrangements.
Design and Fabrication of a Speed Breaker Mechanism for Power Generation: A Case Study of Ikpoba Hill Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Enobakhare Golden , Ogunbor S. E. , Imasuen Peter
Published: May 2022

To meet the ever rising demand for power, innovative measures has to been put into place as convention power sources are fast depreciating. In light of the above, this study opines the distinctive   design and fabrication of   a small scale model speed breaker electric power generator by harnessing the kinetic energy from vehicles with goal of   generating electric power. The model was developed utilizing available electrical   and mechanical components such as flywheel (FW), battery, inverter, spring, rack and pinion, and DC motor.  To this end, the aim of this paper is accomplished by demonstrating the process of conversion of kinetic energy to electrical energy using a movable speed breaker mechanism and show that it can produce adequate amount of power for streets lights and traffic lights. In light of the above, methodology employed to achieve the above includes the construction of a small scale model of the speed breaker generator; using adequate power calculations, design specification with proper review of related works. In conclusion, the proposed model was developed and constructed in such a way that little applied pressure manually (by hand) on the speed breaker caused generation of electrical power. The technical feasibility of this model is illustrated in real case scenario at Ikpoba hill in upper mission extension in Uteh community employed as a case study.
Frequency of Hypophosphatemia in Children Presenting with Sepsis in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Qadri Kashif Habib , Raza Muhammad Saad , Yahya Yousuf , Kumar Suneet , Sangi Rumana , Ahsan Aliya Kemal , Chohan Muhammad Nadeem
Published: May 2022

Aim: To determine the frequency of hypophosphatemia in the children presenting with sepsis in a tertiary care hospital.

Study Design: A cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration: Department of paediatric, civil hospital, Karachi, Pakistan from october 2020 to april 2021.

Methodology: A total of 190 children with clinical sepsis were included in the study. Serum phosphate level, CBC, CRP, and blood culture of all children were sent within 24 hours of admission. Serum phosphate level less than 2.5mg/dL was labeled hypophosphatemia. It was categorized as mild, moderate and severe at level of 2-2.5 mg/dL), 1-2 mg/dL), and < 1 mg/dL respectively.

Results: Mean ± SD age of study participants was 2.69±3.19 years. Out of 190 patients 106 (55.8%) were male while 84 (44.2%) were female. Hypophosphatemia was found in 36 (18.9%) patients among them. Mild and moderate hypophosphatemia was noted in 18 (50%) of the children from each category of patients.

Conclusion: This study concluded that hypophosphatemia was documented in considerable number of children who presented with clinical sepsis. Serum phosphate levels should be checked in children who present with sepsis. To avoid the issues of a double burden of disease in these patients, strategies to prevent these diseases should be supported.
Habilidades Sociais e Gestão Social: possibilidades nas áreas de pesquisa, ensino e extensão
Authors: Moscon Daniela Campos Bahia , Coelho Neto Ernani , Ferreira Fabio Almeida , Lhamas Fernando Antonio de Melo Pereira , Souza Karine Freitas , Marback Neto Guilherme
Published: May 2022

Este artigo propõe situar a temática das Habilidades Sociais (HSs) entre os interesses de ensino, pesquisa e extensão do campo da Gestão Social (GS). Mediante a discussão conceitual sobre o fenômeno das HSs e de suas repercussões sobre o bem-estar e sobre o processo de desenvolvimento local, busca-se estabelecer a pertinência e relevância do tema para estudantes, gestores e pesquisadores da área. Apresenta-se e comenta-se os principais desafios teóricos e metodológicos e propõe-se uma agenda de pesquisa, ensino e extensão e possibilidades de atuação prática.
O "Poema de Mio Cid" e a "Vida de Santo Domingo de Silos": reflexões sobre a santidade no decorrer de uma pesquisa
Authors: Gonçalves Alvaro Bruno
Published: May 2022

O trabalho que se segue tem o intuito de expor algumas reflexões sobre o fenômeno da santidade na Península Ibérica, mais especificamente, na Castela do século XIII, através da breve comparação das virtudes encontradas nos protagonistas do Poemade Mio Cid e da Vida de Santo Domingo de Silos, El Cid e Domingo de Silos, respectivamente. Tais apontamentos fazem parte de um processo de pesquisa que resultou no nosso ingresso no curso de mestrado do Programa de Pós-Graduação em História Comparada da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro no ano de 2007.
Dossiê Documental Privilegium Paschalis II
Authors: Duarte Rust Leandro
Published: May 2022

Este trabalho apresenta, em versão bilíngüe, latim-português, a tradução de fontes manuscritas que documentam parte da trajetória histórica de uma das mais recorrentes modalidades de poder do mundo feudal: a investidura laica. Os documentos aqui publicados foram selecionados segundo sua vinculação a um processo histórico de significativas repercussões no pensamento político medieval e nas relações entre regnum e sacerdotium. Referimo-nos aos duradouros embates entre papado e império pelo poder de investir clérigos em suas dignidades eclesiásticas, que culminaram na concessão do documento pontifício conhecido como “Privilégio da Ponte Mammolo”, ou simplesmente “Privilegium Paschalis II”, ao rei dos germânicos em abril de 1111.
Fundamentalismo e escatologia: A construção de um projeto simbólico
Authors: Silva dos Santos Marcelo
Published: May 2022

O presente artigo tem por objetivo propor a discussão acerca do fundamentalismo protestante do século XX enquanto manifestação escatológica cujo objetivo de difusão através dos meios de comunicação existentes é o projeto de reação àmodernidade e manutenção do poder simbólico da religião. Propagação que se inicia nos Estados Unidos da América e se difunde mundialmente, seja através dos grandes missionários pregadores, seja através da exportação da sua cultura exposta na filmografia “hollywoodiana”.
Microscopic modulation and analysis of islets of Langerhans in living zebrafish larvae
Authors: Faraj Noura , Duinkerken B. H. Peter , Carroll Elizabeth C. , Giepmans Ben N. G.
Published: May 2022

Microscopic analysis of molecules and physiology in living cells and systems is a powerful tool in life sciences. Whilein vivosubcellular microscopic analysis of healthy and diseased human organs remains impossible, zebrafish larvae allow studying pathophysiology of many organs usingin vivomicroscopy. Here, we review the potential of the larval zebrafish pancreas in the context of islets of Langerhans and Type 1 diabetes. We highlight the match of zebrafish larvae with the expanding toolbox of fluorescent probes that monitor cell identity, fate and/or physiology in real time. Moreover, fast and efficient modulation and localization of fluorescence at a subcellular level, through fluorescence microscopy, including confocal and light sheet (single plane illumination) microscopes tailored toin vivolarval research, is addressed. These developments make the zebrafish larvae an extremely powerful research tool for translational research. We foresee that living larval zebrafish models will replace many cell line‐based studies in understanding the contribution of molecules, organelles and cells to organ pathophysiology in whole organisms.
Automatic treatment planning for cervical cancer radiation therapy using direct three‐dimensional patient anatomy match
Authors: Zhang Duoer , Yuan Zengtai , Hu Panpan , Yang Yidong
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Current knowledge‐based planning methods for radiation therapy mainly use low‐dimensional features extracted from contoured structures to identify geometrically similar patients. Here, we propose a knowledge‐based treatment planning method where the anatomical similarity is quantified by the rigid registration of the three‐dimensional (3D) planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risks (OARs) between an incoming patient and database patients.

Methods

A database that contains PTV and OARs contours from 81 cervical cancer radiation therapy patients was established. To identify the anatomically similar patients, the PTV of the new patient was registered to each PTV in the database and the Dice similarity coefficients were calculated for the PTV, rectum, and bladder between the new patient and database patients. Then the top 20 patients in the PTV match and top 3 patients in the subsequent bladder or rectum match were selected. The best dose–volume histogram parameters from the top three patients were applied as the dose constraints to the automatic plan optimization. A fast Fourier transform algorithm was developed to accelerate the 3D PTV registration process run through the database. The entire treatment planning process was automated using in‐house customized Pinnacle scripts. The automatic plans were generated for 20 patients using leave‐one‐out scheme and were evaluated against the corresponding clinical plans.

Results

The automatic plans significantly reduced rectum and bladder by 11.79% ± 5.2% (p < 0.01) and 2.85% ± 3.16% (p < 0.01), respectively. The dose parameters achieved for the PTV and other OARs were comparable to those in the clinical plans. The entire planning process, including both dose prediction and inverse optimization, costs about 6 min.

Conclusions

The direct 3D contour match method utilizes the full spatial information of the PTV and OARs of interest and provides an intuitive measurement for patient plan anatomy similarity. The proposed automatic planning method can generate plans with better quality and higher efficiency.
Pressure Dependence on the Thermal Conductivity of H‐ and J‐type Nanocomposites
Authors: Hong Younggi , Goh Munju
Published: May 2022

The dependence of thermal conductivity on molding pressure in composites containing H‐ and J‐type aggregation molecules is investigated for the first time. When mixed with hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN), small molecules capable of H‐ and J‐aggregation significantly affect the orientation of h‐BN under pressure, resulting in a substantial pressure dependence. For demonstration, 4′,4′′′‐(1,2‐diphenylethylene‐1,2‐diyl)bis{(1,1′‐biphenyl)‐4‐carbonitrile} (TPE‐2CP) and 4′,4′′′,4′′′′′,4′′′′′′′‐(ethene‐1,1,2,2‐tetrayl)tetrakis[{(1,1′‐biphenyl)‐4‐carbonitrile}] (TPE‐4CP) are synthesized, which exhibit H‐ and J‐aggregation, respectively. Furthermore, epoxy (EP) composites containing TPE‐2CP or TPE‐4CP are prepared, which show different aggregation states with changing pressure. As the pressure increases, the thermal conductivity gradually increases in the radial direction and decreases in the axial direction for TPE‐4CP/EP (and vice versa for TPE‐2CP/EP, but to a lesser extent). Consequently, the pressure dependence of composites with h‐BN as a filler to TPE‐4CP/EP is also examined. The radial thermal conductivity of this h‐BN/TPE‐4CP/EP composite increases from 0.8888 W mK−1 at 10 MPa to 1.0062 W mK−1 at 50 MPa. The reasons for the appearance of aggregation states and changes in the thermal conductivity with increasing pressure are then discussed. These findings will contribute to advancing heat dissipation materials by adding TPEs‐based fillers that are biased in one direction using conventional pressure processing techniques.
Laser Photochemical Nanostructuring of Silicon for Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Akbıyık Alp , Avishan Nardin , Demirtaş Özge , Demir Ahmet Kemal , Yüce Emre , Bek Alpan
Published: May 2022

In this work, a novel method of fabricating large‐area, low‐cost surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates is explained which yields nanostructured surface utilizing laser‐induced chemical etching of crystalline silicon (Si) in an hydrofluoric acid solution. Nanostructuring of Si surface is followed by deposition of a thin noble metal layer to complete the fabrication procedure. A 50 nm thick silver (Ag) layer is shown to maximize the SERS performance. The SERS effect is attributed to the electromagnetic field enhancement originating from the nanoscale surface roughness of Si that can be controlled by the illumination power, etch duration, and the spot size of the laser beam. The SERS substrates are found to be capable of detecting a Raman analyte dye molecule down to 10−11 m. SERS performance of the Ag deposited substrates are compared to gold (Au) deposited substrates at 660 and 532 nm excitation. Nanostructured Si surface with Ag exhibits stronger SERS than with Au under 532 nm excitation exhibiting an enhancement factor as high as 109. Raman enhancement factor is calculated both by SERS spectra experimentally, and using finite‐elements simulation of the electric field enhancement. The applicability of the fabricated substrates is examined by adsorbing different analytes.
Photon‐Correlation Studies on Multichromophore Macrocycles of Perylene Dyes
Authors: Müller Ulrich , Spenst Peter , Kagerer Philipp , Stolte Matthias , Würthner Frank , Pflaum Jens
Published: May 2022

Organic dyes offer unique properties for their application as room temperature single photon emitters. By means of photon‐correlation, the emission characteristics of macrocyclic para‐xylylene linked perylene bisimide (PBI) trimers and tetramers dispersed in polymethyl methacrylate matrices are analyzed. The optical data indicate that, despite of the strong emission enhancement of PBI trimers and tetramers according to their larger number of chromophores, the photon‐correlation statistics still obeys that of single photon emitters. Moreover, driving PBI trimers and tetramers at higher excitation powers, saturated emission behavior for monomers is found while macrocycle emission is still far‐off saturation but shows enhanced fluctuations. This observation is attributed to fast singlet–singlet annihilation, i.e., faster than the radiative lifetime of the excited S1 state, and the enlarged number of conformational arrangements of multichromophores in the polymeric host. Finally, embedding trimeric PBI macrocycles in active organic light‐emitting diode matrices, electrically driven bright fluorescence together with an indication for antibunching at room temperature can be detected. This, so far, has only been observed for phosphorescent emitters that feature much longer lifetimes of the excited states and, thus, smaller radiative recombination rates. The results are discussed in the context of possible effects on the g(2) behavior of molecular emitters.
Design and Applications of Liquid Crystal Biophotonic Sensors for Ion Detection
Authors: Qu Ruixiang , Li Guoqiang
Published: May 2022

Liquid crystals (LCs) are nanophotonic materials which can interact with light in the molecular scale. While the LCs are widely used in various displays, last decade has witnessed emerging applications of the LCs for nondisplays. Based on the unique stimuli–responsive property and optical property, the applications of the LCs in the field of sensors are widely explored. In addition, ions are widely distributed in nature and bionts, playing critical roles in many physiological activities and ecological cycles. Appropriate amount of ions is beneficial to the human body, while the excess ions can cause irreversible damages. As a result, a variety of LC sensors are proposed to detect the ion concentration in both body fluids and water samples. This article reviews the design principles, applications, and existing problems of the LC ion sensors. The geometries, alignments, and optical signals of the sensors, which can guide the design of the devices, are first discussed. Afterward, two types of LC ion sensors aiming at detecting metal ions and nonmetallic ions, respectively, are illustrated. Finally, the current challenges and potential development directions of the LC ion sensors are introduced briefly.
A Comparison for Saturable Absorbers: Carbon Nanotube Versus Graphene
Authors: Lau Kuen Yao , Liu Xiaofeng , Qiu Jianrong
Published: May 2022

Saturable absorbers (SAs) have been regarded as a low‐cost yet robust and compact solution to pulse generation in different fiber and solid‐state ultrafast lasers. Following the development of different artificial SAs and semiconductor SA mirrors, carbon nanotube (CNT) and graphene are discovered and employed as SAs for solid‐state as well as fiber lasers. In the past decade, a growing number of SAs based on new materials like MXenes and metal halide perovskites have emerged, while CNT and graphene are still irreplaceable by new materials due to their fascinating saturable absorption properties. Instead of searching for new SAs, the investigation of transient dynamics for mode‐locked pulse generation still relies on the use of CNT and graphene SAs in the fiber laser system due to their reproducible performance and facile fabrication. In this review, a comparison between CNT and graphene will be thoroughly studied in terms of optical nonlinearity, relaxation and recovery time, saturation intensity or fluence, modulation depth, non‐saturable loss, and damage threshold dynamics. In the end, this review will address the challenges in the selection of SAs and provides recommendations for CNT and graphene SAs used in different mode‐locked fiber lasers.
Dual Organic Spacer Cation Quasi‐2D Sn–Pb Perovskite for Solar Cells and Near‐Infrared Photodetectors Application
Authors: Wang Ya , Lin Xiaoyun , Zhou Renlai , Chen Tong , Lou Qiang , Li Qian , Zhou Hang
Published: May 2022

Tin (Sn)‐ and Sn–Pb‐based perovskites arouse great interests in low‐toxicity perovskite. Nevertheless, the instability problems that aroused by Sn oxidation still hinder their applications. To improve the stability of Sn‐based perovskite, a relative stable quasi‐2D Sn–Pb perovskite is proposed by introducing two mixed organic cations, 2‐phenylethylammonium (PEA+), and butylammonium (BA+), which facilitate both precursor assembly and carrier transportation. As a result, efficient and stable quasi‐2D Sn–Pb perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of ≈10% and an improved open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.808 V under AM 1.5G illumination are achieved. The maximum power point (MPP) shows that the current of quasi‐2D Sn–Pb PSC still maintains 97.7% of original value after 20 000 s. Furthermore, the application of the mixed spacer cation quasi‐2D Sn–Pb perovskite in near‐infrared (NIR) light detection is demonstrated. Herein, the quasi‐2D Sn–Pb perovskite shows a high detectivity of ≈6.57 × 1011 Jones with n–i–p structure under 850 nm. It is suggested in the results that the quasi‐2D Sn–Pb perovskite with improved stability holds great potential in infrared photodetection and imaging application.
Spatiotemporally Programmable Surfaces via Viscoelastic Shell Snapping
Authors: Chen Yuzhen , Liu Tianzhen , Jin Lihua
Published: May 2022

Many species can dynamically alter their skin textures to enhance their motility and survivability. Despite the enormous efforts on designing bio‐inspired materials with tunable surface textures, developing spatiotemporally programmable and reconfigurable textural morphing without complex control remains challenging. Herein, a design strategy is proposed to achieve surfaces with such properties. The surfaces comprise an array of unit cells with broadly tailored temporal responses. By arranging the unit cells differently, the surfaces can exhibit various spatiotemporal responses, which can be easily reconfigured by disassembling and rearranging the unit cells. Specifically, viscoelastic shells as the unit cells is adopted, which can be pneumatically actuated to a concave state, and recover the initial convex state sometime after the load is removed. It is shown computationally and experimentally that the recovery time can be widely tuned by the geometry and material viscoelasticity of the shells. By assembling such shells with different recovery times, surfaces with pre‐programmed spatiotemporal textural morphing under simple pneumatic actuation is built, and temporal evolution of patterns, such as digit numbers and emoji, and spatiotemporal control of friction are demonstrated. This work opens up new avenues in designing spatiotemporal morphing surfaces that could be employed for programming mechanical, optical, and electrical properties. A preprint version of the article can be found at: https://www.authorea.com/doi/full/10.22541/au.164020946.62560710.
ApoBandNon‐HDLCholesterol VersusLDLCholesterol for Ischemic Stroke Risk
Authors: Johannesen Camilla D. L. , Mortensen Martin B. , Langsted Anne , Nordestgaard Børge G.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Conflicting results have been reported on the association between lipids and risk of ischemic stroke. We tested the hypothesis that the burden of ischemic stroke attributable to either elevated apolipoprotein B (apoB) or non‐high‐density lipoprotein (non‐HDL) cholesterol is higher than that attributable to elevated low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

Methods

We included 104,618 individuals from an ongoing cohort study, the Copenhagen General Population Study. The associations of quintiles of apoB, non‐HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol with risk of ischemic stroke were estimated by Cox proportional hazards regressions with 95% confidence intervals. With 1stquintile as reference, the proportion of ischemic stroke attributable to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5thquintiles of apoB, non‐HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol were estimated by population attributable fractions.

Results

Higher quintiles of apoB and non‐HDL cholesterol were associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke (both trends:p < 0.0001), whereas for LDL cholesterol this association was somewhat attenuated (trend:p = 0.0005). A similar pattern was seen for population attributable fraction values. Compared to individuals in the 1stquintile, the combined proportion of ischemic stroke attributable to individuals in the 2ndto 5thquintiles was 16.3% for apoB (levels >82 mg/dL), 14.7% for non‐HDL cholesterol (>3.0 mmol/L; >117 mg/dL), and 6.8% for LDL cholesterol (>2.4 mmol/L; >94 mg/dL).

Interpretation

The proportion of ischemic stroke attributable to either elevated apoB or non‐HDL cholesterol was double that attributable to elevated LDL cholesterol. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:379–389
Pd(II)–PPh3 complexes of halogen substituted acylthiourea ligands: Biomolecular interactions and in vitro anti‐proliferative activity
Authors: Dorairaj Dorothy Priyanka , Haribabu Jebiti , Chang Yu‐Lun , Echeverria Cesar , Hsu Sodio C. N. , Karvembu Ramasamy
Published: May 2022

Herein, we report the synthesis of four new Pd(II) acylthiourea complexes (C1–C4) to study the effect of halogen substituted acylthiourea ligands on the biological applications of their Pd(II)–PPh3 complexes. The complexes were characterized by various spectroscopic and analytical methods. The distorted square planar geometry of complexes was confirmed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction study, which also revealed the bidentate (N, S) coordination of the ligands with Pd(II). Interactions of the complexes with biomolecules (DNA/BSA) were investigated by spectroscopic and docking tools. All the complexes showed good binding ability with the targeted biomolecules. Further, in vitro anti‐proliferative activity of the complexes was investigated by performing MTT assay on cancer (HeLa‐cervical, HCT116‐colorectal, and HepG2‐hepatic) and normal (HEK293‐embryonic kidney) cell lines. All the complexes displayed remarkable activity on the three cancer cells, and among them, complex C2 bearing chlorine substituted acylthiourea showed superior activity on HeLa cells with an IC50 value of 6.5 μM, which was higher than that of cisplatin. Apoptosis induced by C2 on HeLa cells was assessed by AO/EB, DAPI and DNA laddering assays, and flow cytometry. Finally, the apoptotic efficiency of C2 was tested by cell cycle analysis, wherein the complex induced the cell cycle arrest in HeLa cells at G0/G1 phase.