bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VIP interneurons in mouse primary visual cortex selectively enhance responses to weak but specific stimuli
Authors: Millman Daniel J , Ocker Gabriel Koch , Caldejon Shiella , Kato India , Larkin Josh D , Lee Eric Kenji , Luviano Jennifer , Nayan Chelsea , Nguyen Thuyanh V , North Kat , Seid Sam , White Cassandra , Lecoq Jerome , Reid Clay , Buice Michael A , de Vries Saskia EJ
Published: October 2020

Vasoactive intestinal peptide-expressing (VIP) interneurons in the cortex regulate feedback inhibition of pyramidal neurons through suppression of somatostatin-expressing (SST) interneurons and, reciprocally, SST neurons inhibit VIP neurons. Although VIP neuron activity in the primary visual cortex (V1) of mouse is highly correlated with locomotion, the relevance of locomotion-related VIP neuron activity to visual coding is not known. Here we show that VIP neurons in mouse V1 respond strongly to low contrast front-to-back motion that is congruent with self-motion during locomotion but are suppressed by other directions and contrasts. VIP and SST neurons have complementary contrast tuning. Layer 2/3 contains a substantially larger population of low contrast preferring pyramidal neurons than deeper layers, and layer 2/3 (but not deeper layer) pyramidal neurons show bias for front-to-back motion specifically at low contrast. Network modeling indicates that VIP-SST mutual antagonism regulates the gain of the cortex to achieve sensitivity to specific weak stimuli without compromising network stability.
Drivers and sites of diversity in the DNA adenine methylomes of 93 Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex clinical isolates
Authors: Modlin Samuel J , Conkle-Gutierrez Derek , Kim Calvin , Mitchell Scott N , Morrissey Christopher , Weinrick Brian C , Jacobs William R , Ramirez-Busby Sarah M , Hoffner Sven E , Valafar Faramarz
Published: October 2020

This study assembles DNA adenine methylomes for 93 Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) isolates from seven lineages paired with fully-annotated, finished, de novo assembled genomes. Integrative analysis yielded four key results. First, methyltransferase allele-methylome mapping corrected methyltransferase variant effects previously obscured by reference-based variant calling. Second, heterogeneity analysis of partially active methyltransferase alleles revealed that intracellular stochastic methylation generates a mosaic of methylomes within isogenic cultures, which we formalize as ‘intercellular mosaic methylation’ (IMM). Mutation-driven IMM was nearly ubiquitous in the globally prominent Beijing sublineage. Third, promoter methylation is widespread and associated with differential expression in the ΔhsdM transcriptome, suggesting promoter HsdM-methylation directly influences transcription. Finally, comparative and functional analyses identified 351 sites hypervariable across isolates and numerous putative regulatory interactions. This multi-omic integration revealed features of methylomic variability in clinical isolates and provides a rational basis for hypothesizing the functions of DNA adenine methylation in MTBC physiology and adaptive evolution.
The osteology and phylogenetic position of the loricatan (Archosauria: Pseudosuchia)Heptasuchus clarki, from the ?Mid-Upper Triassic, southeastern Big Horn Mountains, Central Wyoming (USA)
Authors: Nesbitt Sterling J. , Zawiskie John M. , Dawley Robert M.
Published: October 2020

Loricatan pseudosuchians (known as “rauisuchians”) typically consist of poorly understood fragmentary remains known worldwide from the Middle Triassic to the end of the Triassic Period. Renewed interest and the discovery of more complete specimens recently revolutionized our understanding of the relationships of archosaurs, the origin of Crocodylomorpha, and the paleobiology of these animals. However, there are still few loricatans known from the Middle to early portion of the Late Triassic and the forms that occur during this time are largely known from southern Pangea or Europe.Heptasuchus clarkiwas the first formally recognized North American “rauisuchian” and was collected from a poorly sampled and disparately fossiliferous sequence of Triassic strata in North America. Exposed along the trend of the Casper Arch flanking the southeastern Big Horn Mountains, the type locality ofHeptasuchus clarkioccurs within a sequence of red beds above the Alcova Limestone and Crow Mountain formations within the Chugwater Group. The age of the type locality is poorly constrained to the Middle—early Late Triassic and is likely similar to or just older than that of the Popo Agie Formation assemblage from the western portion of Wyoming. The holotype consists of associated cranial elements found in situ, and the referred specimens consist of crania and postcrania. Thus, about 30% of the osteology of the taxon is preserved. All of the pseudosuchian elements collected at the locality appear to belong toHeptasuchus clarkiand the taxon is not a chimera as previously hypothesized.Heptasuchus clarkiis distinct from all other archosaurs by the presence of large, posteriorly directed flanges on the parabasisphenoid and a distinct, orbit-overhanging postfrontal. Our phylogenetic hypothesis posits a sister-taxon relationship betweenHeptasuchus clarkiand the Ladinian-agedBatrachotomus kupferzellensisfrom current-day Germany within Loricata. These two taxa share a number of apomorphies from across the skull and their phylogenetic position further supports ‘rauisuchian’ paraphyly. A minimum of three individuals ofHeptasuchusare present at the type locality suggesting that a group of individuals died together, similar to other aggregations of loricatans (e.g.,Heptasuchus,Batrachotomus,Decuriasuchus,Postosuchus).
The size of signal detection and emission organs in a synchronous firefly: sexual dimorphism, allometry and assortative mating
Authors: López-Palafox Tania , Macías-Ordóñez Rogelio , Cordero Carlos R.
Published: October 2020

The size of the organs responsible for emitting and detecting sexual communication signals is a likely target for selection. Communication via bioluminescent signals in synchronous fireflies is a promising model to test hypotheses regarding differences between males and females in the effect of the size of signal emission and detection organs on fitness components. Synchronous firefly species congregate in large numbers during the mating season, displaying bioluminescent signals aimed at potential mates during relatively short nightly periods. Operational sex ratios are male-biased and, thus, the so-called typical sex roles (indiscriminate males and choosy females) are expected to evolve. We studied the synchronous fireflyPhotinus palaciosi, a species that during the mating season congregates in forests of central Mexico offering a magnificent natural show that attracts numerous tourists.P. palaciosifemales have reduced wings (brachyptery) and cannot fly. Our field study tested the hypothesis that the male-biased operational sex ratio and the short daily mating period result in strong male-male competition that selects for males with larger lanterns and larger eyes, and against male mate choice, whereas female-female mate competition is absent and, thus, no selection on lantern or eye size is expected. Even though lantern, eye or body size do not predict the probability of being found in copula for either sex, sexual dimorphism in these features, along with allometric slopes of lantern size and assortative mating in terms of relative lantern size, support not only the hypothesis of intense sexual selection among males, but the possibility of subtle mechanisms of sexual selection among females. Trade-offs between investment in signaling (lanterns) versus detection (eyes) structures, or with pressures different from sexual selection such as those imposed by predators, are also likely to be important in shaping the evolution of sexual signaling in these fireflies.
Cytotoxic effect of Montivipera bornmuelleri’s venom on cancer cell lines: in vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Haddoub Carol , Rima Mohamad , Heurtebise Sandrine , Lawand Myriam , Jundi Dania , Sadek Riyad , Amigorena Sebastian , Fajloun Ziad , Karam Marc C.
Published: October 2020

Background

Montivipera bornmuelleri’s venom has shown immunomodulation of cytokines release in mice and selective cytotoxicity on cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner, highlighting an anticancer potential. Here, we extend these findings by elucidating the sensitivity of murine B16 skin melanoma and 3-MCA-induced murine fibrosarcoma cell lines to M. bornmuelleri’s venom and its effect on tumor growth in vivo.

Methods

The toxicity of the venom on B16 and MCA cells was assessed using flow cytometry and xCELLigence assays. For in vivo testing, tumor growth was followed in mice after intratumoral venom injection.

Results

The venom toxicity showed a dose-dependent cell death on both B16 and MCA cells. Interestingly, overexpression of ovalbumin increased the sensitivity of the cells to the venom. However, the venom was not able to eradicate induced-tumor growth when injected at 100 µg/kg. Our study demonstrates a cytotoxic effect of M. bornmuelleri’s venom in vitro which, however, does not translate to an anticancer action in vivo.
Functional traits of broad-leaved monocot herbs in the understory and forest edges of a Costa Rican rainforest
Authors: Rundel Philip W. , Cooley Arielle M. , Gerst Katharine L. , Riordan Erin C. , Sharifi M. Rasoul , Sun Jennifer W. , Tower J. Alexandra
Published: October 2020

Broad-leaved monocot herbs are widespread and dominant components of the shaded understories of wet neotropical forests. These understory habitats are characterized by light limitation and a constant threat of falling branches. Many shaded understory herb species have close relatives that occupy forest edges and gaps, where light availability is higher and defoliation threat is lower, creating an opportunity for comparative analysis of functional traits in order to better understand the evolutionary adaptations associated with this habitat transition. We documented ecological, morphological and ecophysiological traits of multiple herb species in six monocot families from each of these two habitats in the wet tropical rainforest at the La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. We found that a mixture of phylogenetic canalization and ecological selection for specific habitats helped explain patterns of functional traits. Understory herbs were significantly shorter and had smaller leaves than forest edge species. Although the mean number of leaves per plant and specific leaf area did not differ between the two groups, the larger leaf size of forest edge species gave them more than three times the mean plant leaf area. Measures of leaf water content and nitrogen content varied within both groups and mean values were not significantly different. Despite the high leaf nitrogen contents, the maximum photosynthetic rates of understory herbs were quite low. Measures ofδ13C as an analog of water use efficiency found significantly lower (more negative) values in understory herbs compared to forest edge species. Clonality was strongly developed in several species but did not show strong phylogenetic patterns. This study highlights many functional traits that differ between broad-leaved monocot species characteristic of understory and forest edge habitats, as well as traits that vary primarily by phylogenetic relatedness. Overall, plant functional traits do not provide a simple explanation for the relative differences in abundance for individual understory and forest edge species with some occurring in great abundance while others are relatively rare.
Applying a social-ecological system framework to diagnose drivers of dingo management practices
Authors: Waudby Helen P. , Smith Bradley P. , Robinson Guy M. , Petit Sophie , Earl Gill
Published: October 2020

Social-ecological system (SES) frameworks offer a way of diagnosing the economic, environmental, and social issues driving human-canid conflict, and can assist in the development and testing of management interventions. SES-based approaches to carnivore management in the context of conflicts with humans are limited and highlight a growing need to develop new initiatives involving a broad spectrum of interested parties. To help identify management opportunities provided by using a SES applied to human-canid conflict, we apply the principles of Elinor Ostrom’s multi-tiered framework and develop a SES relating to dingo management in the Australian rangelands. This SES posits variables influencing management practices for dingoes and identifies key management opportunities. We use the framework to categorise first-tier sub-components of the SES, propose second-tier variables specific to the SES (referring to past history or experiences of relevant actors and government resource policies), and identify pathways or interactions for testing (e.g., the influence of scientific evidence on policy, development of educational packages, uptake of new knowledge, and impact of socio-economic status). The proposed SES demonstrates the potential for such approaches to help resolve human-dingo conflict, highlights variables that may influence dingo management practices, and presents opportunities for testing these variables empirically.
Quantification of Nutritional Composition and Some Antinutrient Factors of Banana Peels and Pineapple Skins
Authors: Bakri Noor Fadilah Mohd , Ishak Zuwariah , Jusoh Arif Zaidi , H. Hadijah
Published: October 2020

Agricultural wastes are by-products generated from growing and processing of agricultural commodities such as vegetables, fruits, meats, poultry and crops. The modernisation of agricultural practises creates huge number of wastes namely animals’ carcass, seeds and skins from crop and also trace of pesticide, along the chain. If these wastes are released without proper disposal procedure, it may cause negative effects to environment and jeopardize human health. Banana and pineapple are amongst the most common crops cultivated in tropical countries. With its bright colour, juicy delicious flesh, and well-studied beneficial compounds, these two fruits are being enjoyed as fresh consumption or in the form of food products like chips and jam. Unfortunately, the peel and the skin are currently being dumped to the landfill as waste. The objective of our study was to evaluate the chemical composition of banana peel and pineapple skin, in order to explore the utilisation of these so-called wastes as food ingredients. The samples were analysed for nutritional composition, anti-nutrients level and sugar profile. Proximate analysis according to AOAC 2000 method were conducted to collect the nutritional composition of samples, antinutrients factors were study via spectrophotometery analysis and sugar profile were achieved by using HPLC-ELSD method.  The results showed that ash, moisture, fat, protein were in the acceptable level (7.0±0.14, 7.55±1.48, 13.95±1.62, 5.0±2.82, 67.25±3.80  g/100 g respectively for banana peels and 3.49±0.02, 8.65±0.87, 0.38±0.07, 4.84±1.73 and 83.31±3.49 g/100 g for pineapple skins respectively) and acceptable levels of tannin and phytic acid for both samples. Analysis of sugar profile revealed that these high values agricultural waste contain fructose, glucose and sucrose – potentially being utilised as a good source of sweetners. Finally, we recommend that banana peels and pineapple skins should properly be processed and exploited as a high quality and inexpensive source of food ingredients.
Factors Affecting Profitability of Agribusiness Activities: A Case Study of Smallholder Pig Farming in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya
Authors: Micheni P. K. , Nyariki I. S. , Kosgei G. K.
Published: October 2020

Aims: There have been concerted efforts to commercialize the pig sub-sector so as to make it more profitable to farmers, especially smallholder farmers. Despite the development, the profitability in the sector has not been consistent among the smallholder farmers. Smallholder farmers have been earning varying and dismal profits. The causes of the varying profits have not been empirically established with the influence of institutional arrangements from a transaction cost perspective and management factors contributing to this inconsistency not fully established. The study examined the influence of institutional arrangements and management factors on profit efficiency of smallholder pig farming in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya.

Research Methods: A two-stage sampling technique was employed in selection of 80 smallholder pig farmers. Semi-structured interview guides were administered and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and stochastic frontier production function.

Findings: The study revealed that male (75%) respondents dominated were within the active age, had 6 years pig farming experience with basic education. The results of Stochastic frontier production revealed that feed costs (p<0.01) and breed type (p<0.05) negatively reduced profit efficiency of the respondents while herd size (p<0.05) and veterinary and drug costs (p<0.01) positively influenced profit efficiency. Inefficiency was increased by Gender (p<0.1) and Debt Asset Ratio (p<0.01) while information trust (p<0.05) and experience reduced.

Conclusion: The mean profit efficiency was 0.40 exhibiting low profit efficiency in the study area, efficiency level could be increased by 60% through better use of available resources, adoption of modern technology and transaction costs reduction. This would be acquired if good management practices and marketing channels are adopted. The gamma parameter (γ) was 0.63 meaning 63% net revenue variation is due to profit inefficiencies. The study contributes to Agribusiness field and would improve policies associated with agribusiness development in Kenya.
Molecular Identification of Aflatoxigenic Fungi in Some Foods from Selected Markets in Lagos
Authors: Ajiboye Oluwatosin Bidemi , Okunowo Wahab Oluwanisola , Ajiboye Emmanuel Gboyega , Oyedeji Abiola Olajumoke
Published: October 2020

Aflatoxigenic fungi are species of fungi that produce aflatoxins in food commodities. This study was aimed at screening different food samples in our local market for aflatoxigenic fungi using the aflatoxin regulatory gene (aflR gene). Six food samples (wheat, cowpea, rice, maize, melon and groundnut), were sourced from three different markets in Lagos metropolis (Mushin, Oyingbo and Mile 12). Fungi were isolated from these food samples and identified morphologically and microscopically. The genomic DNA was obtained using DNA isolation kits. The aflR gene was amplified from genomic DNA, nested, subjected to agarose gel electrophoresis and gel imaging. The Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) was also amplified from the genomic DNA for molecular identification of the organisms. The results showed that Aspergillus flavus were isolated from all the food samples from the three markets, while Aspergillus niger was present in rice, melon and wheat from Mile 12 market, maize and groundnut from Mushin market, rice and cowpea from Oyingbo market. A. flavus and A.niger were isolated from all the food samples when similar food samples from different market were mixed together. Only A. flavus amplicon from the nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed approximately 400bp DNA fragment on the gel. This study has shown that PCR amplification of aflR gene has high specificity for detection of aflatoxigenic fungi in food samples thus, may be employed in screening food samples for contamination by aflatoxigenic fungi.
Pharmacognostic and Taxonomic Studies of Cola parchycarpa K. Schum. (Malvaceae)
Authors: Johnny Imoh I. , Bassey Margret E.
Published: October 2020

C. pachycarpa is a lesser-known member of the genus Cola in the family Malvaceae. In Nigeria its fruits are edible but with non-edible seeds as the general Cola ‘Kolanut” This study is carried out to evaluate the taxonomic and pharmacognostic characters of Cola pachycarpa K. Schum. for its identification, authentication and standardization. The pharmacognostic and taxonomic characters were determined from macroscopy, microscopy, petiole anatomy, powder microscopy, chemomicroscopy, micromeritic properties, ash values, extractive values, fluorescence analysis and phytochemical screening using standard methods. The leaves of C. pachycarpa were alternate, petiolate, compound and trifoliate. Petioles were within 45-50 cm long, leaflets 20-38 cm long, 10-19 cm wide, the middle leaflet were often longer than others. Leaflets were short petiolulate to subsessile, leaflet shape was elliptic, apex acuminate, margin entire and texture hairy on the abaxial surface of the leaflet with brown caducuous hairs on the abaxial surface only. Stem was erect, woody and scabrid about 4-10 cm in diameter. The fruit was 15 cm long and 7 cm wide with about 3-5 seeds occurring in a pod. Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoid, saponins, tannins and cardiac glycosides but anthraquinone was absent for the leaf while all were present except alkaloid, cardiac glycoside and anthraquinone in the stem. Epidermal cells were polygonal with straight anticlinal walls. Drusiferous crystals were observed on the petioles. Leaflets were hypostomatic with anisocytic stomata and stellate trichomes on the abaxial surface. The chemomicroscopic study revealed the presence of lignin, starch, cellulose, oils, calcium oxalate crystals, mucilage and protein for both leaf and stem. The fluorescence characteristics showed the presence of different colours supporting the presence of various phytoconstituents for both leaf and stem. The flow properties for both leaf and stem were fair and passable with the angle of repose of 35° and 45°respectively. The quantitative epidermal studies, chemomicroscopic and fluorescence characteristics revealed characteristic features for the drug. The physico-chemical results for leaf and stem gave total ash of 8.24% and 11.5%, water soluble ash of 3.71% and 3.20%, acid-insoluble ash of 0.99% and 4.33% and moisture content of 10.58% and 4.33%, water-soluble extractive of 12.50 % and 9.40%, ethanol-soluble extractive of 9.10% and 2.90%, methanol-soluble extractive of 8.00 % and 2.30% and ethyl-acetate acetate-soluble extractive of 2.00% and 0.50% respectively.

The findings of the research will help in the identification and authentication of the plant as well as establishing standards for quality, purity, safety, efficacy and reproducibility in phytomedicine.
18β-glycyrrhetinic Acid Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in HPV18+ HeLa Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Saeed Mohd
Published: October 2020

Aims: In recent years, natural products have received great attention to cancer prevention owing to their various health benefits, lack of toxicity, and side effects. Accumulating evidence shows that 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA) has antiproliferative and apoptotic activities on many cancer cell lines, while its role in cervical cancer remains unknown. Thus, the current research was         conducted to illustrate GRA's cytotoxic effect against the HeLa cell line of HPV18 + human cervical cancer.

Methodology: The effect of GRA on HeLa cell line was tested by MTT and Trypan blue dye exclusion assay. Cell cycle analysis was carried out by flow cytometry after PI staining. Apoptosis was assessed after annexin V / PI double staining by flow cytometry. The Caspase activation assay kit analysed caspase activation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was measured by fluorimeter after DCFDA dye staining.

Results: Results of the current study have shown that GRA exposure significantly inhibited the cell viability of HeLa cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. GRA induced growth arrest of HeLa cells at G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle. Moreover, GRA's antiproliferative action was mediated through apoptosis, as evident from caspase-3 and -9 activation. Caspase inhibitors blocked the GRA-induced caspase activation and ameliorated the GRA-induced cytotoxicity. This suggested the role of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis stimulated by GRA.  The intracellular ROS generation assay showed a dose-related increment in ROS production induced by GRA. Co-culturing of HeLa cells with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), a ROS inhibitor, completely abrogated GRA-induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Thus, the effect of NAC suggested the involvement of intracellular ROS in the GRA-induced cytotoxicity.

Conclusion: In summary, GRA exhibited strong antiproliferative and apoptotic properties and, thus, could act as an adjunct in the prevention and management of cervical cancer.
Uso de Poli-hidroxibutirato e Norbixina como Biomaterial para Regeneração Óssea: um mapeamento tecnológico
Authors: De Sousa Rayssilane Cardoso , Viana Vicente Galber Freitas , Carvalho Luiz Fernando Meneses , Vasconcelos Daniel Fernando Pereira
Published: October 2020

É crescente a associação de matrizes poliméricas e extratos naturais para a confecção de novos biomateriais na área de engenharia de tecidos. O presente trabalho propõe um estudo prospectivo sobre a aplicação de uma matriz polimérica contendo poli-hidroxibutirato e o apocarotenoide norbixina como biomaterial para fins de reparo ósseo. Foram realizadas buscas de artigos científicos publicados nos últimos dez anos, entre 2008 e 2018, nas bases de periódicos Web of Science, Scopus e Scielo. Para o mapeamento científico e tecnológico, considerou-se o levantamento total do número de patentes nos bancos de patentes do INPI, Espacenet e USPTO. A partir dos artigos e patentes revisados, constatou-se que a associação desses constituintes na engenharia de tecidos e em reparo ósseo é desconhecida. Porém, observou-se que os mesmos são conhecidamente utilizados como biomateriais com relevantes propriedades terapêuticas em diversos meios biológicos, tratando-se, portanto, de uma promissora área de pesquisa a ser explorada.
Análise Prospectiva do Caju: mapeamento tecnológico por meio de pedidos de patentes
Authors: Oliveira Diego Francisco de Mesquita , Rodrigues Thiago Machado
Published: October 2020

O Cajueiro (Anacardium occidentale L.) é uma planta tropical nativa do Nordeste brasileiro que possui potencialidades alimentícias, destacando-se pela grande variedade de produtos que são derivados do seu cultivo. O agronegócio do Caju tem grande relevância social e econômica para a Região do Nordeste brasileiro. O presente estudo tem como objetivo realizar uma prospecção tecnológica do Caju por meio da análise dos pedidos de patentes nas principais bases de dados de acesso gratuito: World Intellectual Property organization (WIPO – Patentscope), European Patent Office (Espacenet) e no banco de dados do Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial (INPI). Como resultados, após analisar os avanços das competências tecnológicas do Caju, por meio do mapeamento tecnológico de patentes, foi possível observar que as potencialidades tecnológicas do fruto são abrangentes, não se restringindo somente ao agronegócio, e com destaque para a área da ciência médica ou veterinária e higiene.
Prospecção Tecnológica da Espécie Cyperus esculentus L.: um panorama sobre a produção científica e tecnológica
Authors: Correia Renata , Assunção Júnior Reinaldo , Spósito Romulo , Pungartnik Cristina
Published: October 2020

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo mapear as produções científicas e tecnológicas relacionadas à Cyperusesculentus, avaliando as potencialidades dessa espécie no cenário mundial. Foi realizada uma busca nas bases de dados de patentes do European Patent Office (EPO) e nas bases de dados de periódicos Web of Science, Science Direct e Scielo. A busca encontrou 698 patentes e 118 artigos. O ano de 2011 apresentou o maior número de patentes depositadas e a China aparece como o maior depositante. Os resultados da Classificação Internacional de Patentes estão restritos à Seção A, atribuída a necessidades humanas, em destaque para a Subseção A23L, associada a produtos alimentícios. Em relação às áreas de pesquisa, houve destaque para a área de Agricultura. Os resultados também evidenciaram a potencialidade tecnológica e científica da espécie para a indústria farmacêutica, pois as publicações e patentes analisadas relatam atividade terapêuticas, bem como a presença de compostos bioativos.
Estudo Prospectivo sobre Tecnologia Assistiva na Educação Escolar para Criança com Deficiência Intelectual/Mental
Authors: Frasson Júlia Maciela Oliveira de Tassis , Galhardo Cristiane Xavier , Santos Vivianni Marques Leite dos
Published: October 2020

Tecnologia Assistiva (TA) é o campo do conhecimento, com característica interdisciplinar, que através do uso de produtos e serviços assistivos objetiva promover a funcionalidade relacionada participação e atividade de pessoas com deficiência, mobilidade reduzida ou incapacidades, visando sua independência, autonomia, qualidade de vida e inclusão social. É um dos meios pelo qual se pode alcançar a aplicação da Lei Brasileira de Inclusão da Pessoa com Deficiência. Assim, objetiva-se realizar uma prospecção tecnológica do panorama mundial da proteção de produtos e processos associados a TA, investigando as patentes por país de origem, evolução anual, tipo de instituição e empresas envolvidas no desenvolvimento. Para tanto, foram utilizadas as ferramentas Matriz SWOT e Roadmap Tecnológico. Constatou-se que apesar de a TA contemplar potencialidades nos mais diferentes ramos da tecnologia, é incipiente o número de empresas e universidades atuando nesta área, demonstrando a necessidade de fomento na pesquisa, desenvolvimento e inovação do setor.
Prospecção Científica e Tecnológica da Tuberculose no Maranhão e o Uso Medicinal da Copaifera Langsdorffii no Tratamento
Authors: Azevedo Vitória Santos , Araújo Adrielle De Sá , Sousa Marcelo Borges de , Barros Marcos Dos Santos , Rocha Jefferson Almeida
Published: October 2020

A Tuberculose é a doença que mais mata no mundo, possuindo um alto índice de prevalência e de mortalidade. Sendo assim, este trabalho tem como finalidade a realização da prospecção científica e tecnológica de pesquisas sobre a tuberculose no Maranhão e o uso medicinal da planta Copaifera langsdorffii contra a doença. Na busca de patentes, foram utilizadas as bases: INPI, Espacenet, USPTO e Web of Science; e os artigos nas bases: Scielo, Bireme, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, ACS e Google acadêmico. Os resultados na busca de patentes sobre a tuberculose no Maranhão e o uso medicinal da planta copaíba foram negativos em relação a patentes publicadas, e, em relação aos artigos, o resultado foi bastante diferente, obteve-se uma grande quantidade de pesquisas relacionadas à tuberculose no Maranhão e ao uso da copaíba para o tratamento da tuberculose. É visível o incentivo para o aumento de pesquisas nessa área comprovando a veracidade da planta para o tratamento da tuberculose.
Uso de Índices de Localização para Identificar Indicações Geográficas na Região Metropolitana de Brasília
Authors: Aveni Alessandro
Published: October 2020

Este artigo discute o uso da metodologia proposta pelo autor no curso de mestrado PROFNIT do NIT de Brasília sobre a utilização de análises quantitativas (indicadores locacionais – QL) e APLs para identificar Indicações Geográficas na Região Metropolitana de Brasília. Com o uso de dados quantitativos de APL e do censo agropecuário do IBGE, é possível identificar a concentração de produção para produtos locais com alto potencial para se tornarem certificados. A pesquisa exploratória mostra que a produção de mel e de morango tem uma concentração na Região Metropolitana de Brasília que poderia ser explorada com pedido de Indicação Geográfica pelas associações de produtores. Confirma-se, assim, a metodologia usada e a proposta de aumentar as análises no Distrito Federal.
Prospecção Científica e Tecnológica de Malpighia emarginata DC. (Malpighiaceae): espécie economicamente importante do Brasil
Authors: Vieira Thaynara De Carvalho , Nascimento Maria Gracelia Paiva , Bittencourt Cleiton Barroso , De Andrade Ivanilza Moreira
Published: October 2020

Malpighia emarginata DC. é uma espécie frutífera com ampla distribuição no Brasil e potencial econômico no campo alimentício, principalmente como fonte de Vitamina C. Neste trabalho, realizou-se uma prospecção científica e tecnológica em bases de dados de artigos e patentes, nacional e internacional sobre Malpighia emarginata. Na Web of Science e no SCOPUS foram indexados 169 e 179 artigos, respectivamente, enquanto, para patentes, foram obtidos 11 (EPO) e 20 (WIPO) registros. Com relação a países, a China (EPO=5 e WIPO=6) e a Coreia do Sul (EPO=3 e WIPO=4) são os maiores detentores de patentes envolvendo o desenvolvimento de pesquisas sobre Malpighia emarginata. As pesquisas tecnológicas e científicas sugerem que o gênero Malpighia tornou-se bastante conhecido principalmente devido às suas propriedades nutricionais, e, embora o Brasil possua um número significativo de publicações, é necessário que haja maior produção de tecnologias, devido ao grande avanço técnico científico para a espécie.            
Estudo Prospectivo sobre o Uso da Técnica de Biorremediação para a Recuperação de Solos Contaminados por Derivados do Petróleo
Authors: Sousa Kamilla Costa de , Santos Júnior José Edilson Dos , Santos Vivianni Marques Leite dos
Published: October 2020

Acidentes e vazamentos que envolvem produtos derivados de petróleo afetam bastante a natureza, pois o solo é fortemente prejudicado. Na busca por remediação, podem ser utilizados processos biológicos sobre a promissora relação custo/eficiência, com a devida consideração de fatores, como pH e umidade. Assim, este artigo tem como objetivo relatar os principais fatores envolvidos e os tipos de técnicas de biorremediação de solos contaminados por petróleo e seus derivados, bem como as principais iniciativas com geração de patentes. Foram identificadas seis famílias de patentes, com o primeiro pedido de proteção no Brasil, em 2007, pela Rhodia Poliamida & Especialidades, detendo a maior família de patentes depositadas em sete organizações ou países. É do Brasil a patente para um dispositivo móvel, concedida para o Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas do Estado de São Paulo. Ao final, conclui-se pela viabilidade de aplicação da técnica e pela possibilidade de inovações incrementais.
Cadernos de Prospecção: uma brisa de esperança e alento em tempos difíceis
Authors: Farias Claudio Vinicius Silva
Published: October 2020

Vimos um tempo de mudanças. Mudanças de hábitos, costumes, tradições, que passam pelo repensar de hábitos simples (como um aperto de mãos e os abraços calorosos – que tanto caracterizam nossa brasilidade), mas também por reflexões mais profundas. Com toda a certeza, tais reflexões passarão por uma adequação e valorização do papel da Ciência e da Tecnologia em nossas sociedades.

É estranho que no florescer do século XXI ainda estejamos falando da valorização da Ciência. Isso porque em boa medida, o que define nosso avanço enquanto sociedade passa, necessariamente, pelo avanço da Ciência (e aqui trato Ciência em seu sentido mais lato, independente da área do conhecimento). Porém, em diversas partes do mundo, o questionamento aos princípios da Ciência foram colocados em cheque. É bom que se explique que a dúvida está na raiz do método científico, e ser colocado em cheque não é, necessariamente, um problema para os profissionais da Ciência. O problema está na qualidade das dúvidas apresentadas.

Colocar em dúvida o formato da Terra, o movimento dos astros celestes, a eficácia de procedimentos médicos não são, em verdade, dúvidas, mas um emaranhado de suposições e crenças conspiratórias. A ciência precisa ser questionada, posta em cheque, mas de forma qualificada e tendo por base o próprio método científico. Só assim teremos uma ciência propriamente evolucionária.

Essa edição da Revista Cadernos de Prospecção é um exemplo claro do que estamos falando. Ao dedicar boa parte dos artigos publicados ao levantamento prospectivo e crítico de inúmeras tecnologias, possibilita aos pesquisadores e interessados uma visão ampla e atualizada do “estado da arte” em diferentes setores e áreas do saber. É o exemplo de que o conhecimento científico, aliado aos interesses da sociedade civil gera resultados que vão muito além de bibliometrias frias e sem relações com o desenvolvimento científico, econômico e social.

Os 22 artigos aqui publicados demonstram como é possível alinhar os interesses da academia com os problemas reais da sociedade. Mostram, também, que existe uma rede muita bem montada de saberes e investigações, em parte capitaneada pelos esforços das centenas de alunos e docentes ligados ao Profnit, em todo o país. Isso fica evidenciado pela participação dos 84 autores (oriundos de 22 organizações diferentes e de 5 regiões do Brasil e Distrito Federal), que submeteram seus trabalhos ao rigoroso crivo da Revista. Todo esse esforço é como uma brisa de esperança e um alento em tempos tão difíceis.

Desejo a todos uma leitura prazerosa e parabenizo aos autores, avaliadores e revisores pela excelente edição da Cadernos de Prospecção.

 
2015 American College of Rheumatology Workforce Study and Demand Projections of Pediatric Rheumatology Workforce, 2015–2030
Authors: Correll Colleen K. , Ditmyer Marcia M. , Mehta Jay , Imundo Lisa F. , Klein‐Gitelman Marisa S. , Monrad Seetha U. , Battafarano Daniel F.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To describe the character and composition of the 2015 pediatric rheumatology workforce in the US, evaluate current workforce trends, and project future supply and demand of the pediatric rheumatology workforce through 2030.

Methods

The American College of Rheumatology created the workforce study group to study the rheumatology workforce. The workforce study group used primary and secondary data to create a representative workforce model. Pediatric rheumatology supply and demand was projected through 2030 using an integrated data‐driven framework to capture a more realistic clinical full‐time equivalent (FTE) and produce a better picture of access to care issues in pediatric rheumatology.

Results

The 2015 pediatric rheumatology workforce was estimated at 287 FTEs (300 providers), while the estimated excess demand was 95 (33%). The projected demand will continue to increase to almost 100% (n = 230) by 2030 if no changes occur in succession planning, new graduate entrants into the profession, and other factors associated with the workforce.

Conclusion

This study projects that the pediatric rheumatology workforce gap will continue to worsen significantly from the 2015 baseline, and by 2030 the demand for pediatric rheumatologists will be twice the supply. Innovative strategies are needed to increase the workforce supply and to improve access to care.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Distal C−H Selenylation of 2‐Aryl Acetamides with Diselenides and Selenyl Chlorides
Authors: He Meicui , Gu Linghui , Tan Yuqiang , Wang Yang , Wang Yuchi , Zhang Chunran , Ma Wenbo
Published: October 2020

A convenient and effective method of palladium‐catalyzed C−H selenylation of the 2‐aryl acetamides assisted with removable 8‐aminoquinoline with readily available diselenides and selenyl chlorides has been developed. This selenylation reaction is scalable and tolerates a wide range of functional groups, providing a straightforward way of the preparing unsymmetrical diaryl selenides and dibenzoselene‐pinone. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicated that a single‐electron transfer type mechanism and facile C−H metalation are operative.

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Metal‐Free Oxidative Double C(sp3)−C(sp3) Coupling of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds and N,N‐Dimethylanilines
Authors: Huang Ling , Cao Dongdong , Pan Jie , Fang Lingjia , Wang Qianqian , Chen Dingben , Yang Jianguo
Published: October 2020

Herein, metal‐free oxidative tandem cross‐dehydrogenative coupling of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds with N,N‐dimethylanilines is developed. The reaction affords two new C(sp3)−C(sp3) bonds in one pot. A broad range of ß‐dicarbonyl compounds and N,N‐dimethylanilines were compatible, and the desired products were synthesized in moderate‐to‐good yields.

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Enantioselective Michael Addition Reactions to Construct SCF3‐containing Stereocenter Catalyzed by Chiral Quaternary Phosphonium Salts
Authors: Hong Haoran , Zheng Changwu , Zhao Gang , Shang Yongjia
Published: October 2020

The trifluoromethylthio group is significant in drug design for its high stability, electronegativity, and lipophilicity. Herein, a series of indenone structures containing the SCF3 group and an adjacent chiral quaternary stereocenter were synthesized by an asymmetric Michael addition reaction using an ion pair catalyst derived from amino acids. The desired products were obtained in excellent yields (up to 98%) and good to high stereoselectivities (up to 97% ee and >20:1 dr).

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Emergent Degradation Phenomena Demonstrated on Resilient, Flexible, and Scalable Integrated Photoelectrochemical Cells
Authors: Kistler Tobias A. , Zeng Guosong , Young James L. , Weng Lien‐Chun , Aldridge Chase , Wyatt Keenan , Steiner Myles A. , Solorzano Oscar , Houle Frances A. , Toma Francesca M. , Weber Adam Z. , Deutsch Todd G. , Danilovic Nemanja
Published: October 2020

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting provides a pathway to generate sustainable clean fuels using the two most abundant resources on Earth: sunlight and water. Currently, most of the successful models of PEC cells are still fabricated on small scales near 1 cm2, which largely limits the mass deployment of solar‐fuel production. Here, the scale‐up to 8 cm2 of an integrated PEC (IPEC) device is demonstrated and its performance compared to a 1 cm2 IPEC cell, using state‐of‐the‐art iridium and platinum catalysts with III–V photoabsorbers. The initial photocurrents at 1 sun are 8 and 7 mA cm−2 with degradation rates of 0.60 and 0.47 mA cm−2 day−1, during unbiased operation for the 1 and 8 cm2 devices, respectively. Evaluating under outdoor and indoor conditions at two U.S. National Laboratories reveals similar results, evidencing the reproducibility of this design's performance. Furthermore, the emerging degradation mechanisms during scale‐up are investigated and the knowledge gained from this work will provide feedback to the broader community, since PEC device durability is a limiting factor in its potential future deployment.
Clinical aspects of a large group of adults with Angelman syndrome
Authors: den Besten Inge , de Jong Rianne F. , Geerts‐Haages Amber , Bruggenwirth Hennie T. , Koopmans Marije ,   ENCORE Expertise Center for AS 18+, Brooks Alice , Elgersma Ype , Festen Dederieke A. M. , Valstar Marlies J.
Published: October 2020

Descriptions of the clinical features of Angelman syndrome (AS) have mainly been focused on children. Here, we describe the evolution of the clinical phenotypes of AS in adulthood, using clinical data from 95 individuals (mean age 31.6 years, median 29.0 years, range 18–83 years), with genetically confirmed AS. Data was collected through physical examination and inspection of medical records, combined with questionnaires and interviews. Adults with AS experience substantial debilitating health problems. Constipation, reflux, visual problems, scoliosis, behavioral and sleeping problems occurred frequently and require appropriate attention. Epilepsy was reported in 57% of adults, negatively affecting the level of functioning. Non‐convulsive status epilepticus was not observed in the adults, however some individuals developed prolonged episodes of rhythmic shaking while awake. A decline in mobility was noted in the majority of adults. A minority of adults with AS showed microcephaly. Taken together, this first phenotypic study of adults with AS to include in person interviews with care‐givers and physical examination of patients, including the eldest adult reported to date, provides important insight in the development of the syndrome into adulthood. This knowledge is required to improve care for adult individuals with AS and to evaluate future therapies for this group.
Die gerichtete Evolution einer Halogenid‐Methyltransferase erlaubt die biokatalytische Synthese diverser SAM‐Analoga
Authors: Tang Qingyun , Grathwol Christoph W. , Aslan‐Üzel Aşkın S. , Wu Shuke , Link Andreas , Pavlidis Ioannis V. , Badenhorst Christoffel P. S. , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: October 2020

Biokatalytische Alkylierungen sind wichtige Reaktionen, um chemo‐, regio‐ und stereoselektiv alkylierte Verbindungen zu erhalten. Dies kann mit S‐Adenosyl‐l‐methionin (SAM)‐abhängigen Methyltransferasen und SAM‐Analoga erreicht werden. Kürzlich wurde gezeigt, dass eine Halogenid‐Methyltransferase (HMT) aus Chloracidobacterium thermophilum SAM ausgehend von SAH und Methyliodid herstellen kann. Wir entwickelten einen Iodid‐basierten Assay für die gerichtete Evolution einer HMT aus Arabidopsis thaliana und nutzten diesen, um eine V140T‐Variante zu identifizieren, die auch Ethyl‐, Propyl‐, und Allyliodid akzeptiert, um die entsprechenden SAM‐Analoga herzustellen (90, 50 und 70 % Umsatz ausgehend von 15 mg SAH). Die V140T‐AtHMT wurde in einer Eintopfkaskade mit O‐Methyltransferasen (IeOMT und COMT) eingesetzt, um die regioselektive Alkylierung von Luteolin und 3,4‐Dihydroxybenzaldehyd zu erzielen. Obwohl eine Kaskade zur Propylierung von 3,4‐Dihydroxybenzaldehyd niedrige Umsätze ergab, konnte das Propyl‐SAH‐Intermediat durch NMR‐Spektroskopie bestätigt werden.
Synthetic Routes for Heteroatom‐Containing Alkylated/Arylated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Shi Qinqin , Shi Xiaosong , Feng Changfu , Wu Yishi , Zheng Nan , Liu Jie , Wu Xiaoxi , Chen Hao , Peng Aidong , Li Jianfeng , Jiang Lang , Fu Hongbing , Xie Zengqi , Marder Seth R. , Blakey Simon B. , Huang Hui
Published: October 2020

Synthetic routes for heteroatom‐containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (H‐PAHs) with alkyl and aryl substitution are demonstrated. Three H‐PAHs, including heteroatom‐containing rubicenes (H‐rubicenes), angular‐benzothiophenes (ABTs), and indenothiophene (IDTs) were successfully synthesized by two key steps, including polysubstituted olefin formation and cyclization. Specifically, ABT and H‐rubicenes were comprehensively investigated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, NMR spectroscopy, UV‐vis absorption, cyclic voltammetry, transient absorption, and single‐crystal OFET measurements.
Directed Evolution of a Halide Methyltransferase Enables Biocatalytic Synthesis of Diverse SAM Analogs
Authors: Tang Qingyun , Grathwol Christoph W. , Aslan‐Üzel Aşkın S. , Wu Shuke , Link Andreas , Pavlidis Ioannis V. , Badenhorst Christoffel P. S. , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: October 2020

Biocatalytic alkylations are important reactions to obtain chemo‐, regio‐ and stereoselectively alkylated compounds. This can be achieved using S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine (SAM)‐dependent methyltransferases and SAM analogs. It was recently shown that a halide methyltransferase (HMT) from Chloracidobacterium thermophilum can synthesize SAM from SAH and methyl iodide. We developed an iodide‐based assay for the directed evolution of an HMT from Arabidopsis thaliana and used it to identify a V140T variant that can also accept ethyl‐, propyl‐, and allyl iodide to produce the corresponding SAM analogs (90, 50, and 70 % conversion of 15 mg SAH). The V140T AtHMT was used in one‐pot cascades with O‐methyltransferases (IeOMT or COMT) to achieve the regioselective ethylation of luteolin and allylation of 3,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde. While a cascade for the propylation of 3,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde gave low conversion, the propyl‐SAH intermediate could be confirmed by NMR spectroscopy.
Enhancing Performances of Polydopamine as Cathode for Lithium‐ and Potassium‐Ion Batteries by Simple Grafting of Sulfonate Groups
Authors: Aqil Abdelhafid , Jérôme Christine , Boschini Frédéric , Mahmoud Abdelfattah
Published: October 2020

Polydopamine (PDA) is a bioderived organic electrode material which exhibits a low capacity of ∼100 mAh.g−1 due to the large PDA aggregates formed at the electrode during self‐polymerization of DA. In this work, it found that a simple grafting of sulfonate groups via Michael addition can endow sulfonated PDA with superior electrochemical performances. Benefiting from the homogeneity of the coated active material and the improved ionic conductivity, the optimized PDA delivered high storage capacities of 206 mAh.g−1 for LIBs and 82 mAh.g−1 for KIBs at a high current density of (1000 mA.g−1) with a coulombic efficiency of nearly 100 %.