bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemic Curve of Covid-19 Cases after Lockdown in the Municipality of Belém, Pará State, Brazil
Authors: Vilhena Fabiane Diniz Machado , Dias Thamyles da Silva , Ferreira Patricia da Silva , Costa Leiliane Cristina de Souza , Corrêa Adriely Veloso , Santos Pamela Farias , Silva Denise Miriam de Barros da , Oliveira Letícia Gomes de
Published: September 2020

Objective: To describe the evolution of COVID-19 cases three weeks after the start of the lockdown in the municipality of Belém, State of Pará.

Methodology: Descriptive-epidemiological study, quantitative approach. The reported cases of Covid-19 were collected and analyzed in the municipality of Belém, from May 28 to June 3, 2020, that is, three weeks after the decree that regulated the lockdown. Data were extracted from the websites of the state departments and the following variables were evaluated: gender, age group, city.

Results: It was identified that there were records of 92 confirmed cases and 19 deaths from coronavirus in the municipality. People aged 60 years or older were the ones who received the most confirmation of the disease and who also died the most. Women were predominant among confirmed cases and men among deaths.

Conclusion: The present study consists of offering the academic environment reflections about the implementation of lockdown and how it reflects on the possible control of the increase of cases in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, based on the collection of epidemiological data of the disease, carried out in the municipality. For this, there was an increasing trend in the number of both confirmed cases and deaths. However, after the lockdown, it was possible to identify that the incidence remained in an isolation rate interval, without exponential growth, different from what was expected without the strategy. This contributes to the lower demand for care in health services and funeral homes.
A Mathematical Modeling of Tuberculosis Dynamics with Hygiene Consciousness as a Control Strategy
Authors: Mawira Phineas Z. , Malonza David M.
Published: September 2020

Tuberculosis, an airborne infectious disease, remains a major threat to public health in Kenya. In this study, we derived a system of non-linear ordinary differential equations from the SLICR mathematical model of TB to study the effects of hygiene consciousness as a control strategy against TB in Kenya. The effective basic reproduction number (R0) of the model was determined by the next generation matrix approach. We established and analyzed the equilibrium points. Using the Routh-Hurwitz criterion for local stability analysis and comparison theorem for global stability analysis, the disease-free equilibrium (DFE) was found to be locally asymptotically stable given that R0 < 1.  Also by using the Routh-Hurwitz criterion for local stability analysis and Lyapunov function and LaSalle’s invariance principle for global stability analysis, the endemic equilibrium (EE) point was found to be locally asymptotically stable given that R0 > 1. Using MATLAB ode45 solver, we simulated the model numerically and the results suggest that hygiene consciousness can helpin controlling TB disease if incorporated effectively.
Ecosystem, Health, Socio-economic and Mobility Factors for COVID-19 Mortality
Authors: Goncalves Jorge
Published: September 2020

Epidemiological literature identifies a variety of factors that can affect the mortality of COVID-19. We use a sample of 42 countries and 46 States of the US, and analyse 19 factors that could affect mortality. The factors that were found significant were the following: Population in nursing homes; pollution; prevalence of lung cancers, hypertension and diabetes; median age of population and percentage of the population above 65 years old; air traffic; population concentration; mean temperature; and UV radiation. Regarding mobility policies, quarantines to passengers arriving and suspending the entry of air passengers were found to reduce mortality; community mobility reduction in public spaces was not found to reduce mortality and the influx of people in the healthcare system in the following weeks to the outbreak.
Screw Pump‐Type Water Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Active Water Flow Control
Authors: Chung Seh-Hoon , Chung Jihoon , Kim Banseok , Kim Seamin , Lee Sangmin
Published: September 2020

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have been spotlighted due to the high efficiency, low cost, and easy accessibility. Despite their advantage, TENGs exhibit certain limitations such as a low lifetime. To overcome the limitation, the use of water–solid contact TENGs has been suggested. Most of the studies about water–solid contact TENG are focused on optimizing the device to adjust to the stagnant water or natural water movement. However, in most actual fluid machinery applications, the flow of water can be changed by mechanical components. The development of the water–solid contact TENG that actively changes water movement can broaden the application of TENGs. Herein, a screw pump TENG (SP–TENG) that can generate electricity by pumping water is developed. By analyzing contact surface area between water and screw in different screw rotational velocity and electrical difference from different electrode area, the device is able to optimize. The developed SP–TENG can light four light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) and activate temperature sensor. In addition, because SP–TENG can function as an active water TENG, it can enable the circulation of water to improve the ecosystem. Thus, SP–TENG can be used as an ecofriendly device that can simultaneously harvest energy and induce self‐purification of water.
Rapidly Customizable, Scalable 3D‐Printed Wireless Optogenetic Probes for Versatile Applications in Neuroscience
Authors: Lee Juhyun , Parker Kyle E. , Kawakami Chinatsu , Kim Jenny R. , Qazi Raza , Yea Junwoo , Zhang Shun , Kim Choong Yeon , Bilbily John , Xiao Jianliang , Jang Kyung‐In , McCall Jordan G. , Jeong Jae‐Woong
Published: September 2020

Optogenetics is an advanced neuroscience technique that enables the dissection of neural circuitry with high spatiotemporal precision. Recent advances in materials and microfabrication techniques have enabled minimally invasive and biocompatible optical neural probes, thereby facilitating in vivo optogenetic research. However, conventional fabrication techniques rely on cleanroom facilities, which are not easily accessible and are expensive to use, making the overall manufacturing process inconvenient and costly. Moreover, the inherent time‐consuming nature of current fabrication procedures impede the rapid customization of neural probes in between in vivo studies. Here, a new technique stemming from 3D printing technology for the low‐cost, mass production of rapidly customizable optogenetic neural probes is introduced. The 3D printing production process, on‐the‐fly design versatility, and biocompatibility of 3D printed optogenetic probes as well as their functional capabilities for wireless in vivo optogenetics is detailed. Successful in vivo studies with 3D printed devices highlight the reliability of this easily accessible and flexible manufacturing approach that, with advances in printing technology, can foreshadow its widespread applications in low‐cost bioelectronics in the future.
Near Infrared‐Activatable Platinum‐Decorated Gold Nanostars for Synergistic Photothermal/Ferroptotic Therapy in Combating Cancer Drug Resistance
Authors: del Valle Andrea C. , Yeh Chih‐Kuang , Huang Yu‐Fen
Published: September 2020

Ferroptotic cell death results from glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) inactivation and/or glutathione (GSH) depletion. Elevated GSH levels are often found in multidrug‐resistant (MDR) tumor cells, reducing their sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs and the efficacy of treatment. MDR cells also acquire a dependency on GPX4, reducing their oxidative stress and promoting their survival. Therefore, the depletion of GSH and inactivation of GPX4 has the potential to be a superior treatment strategy for MDR tumors. Platinum‐decorated gold nanostars (Pt‐AuNS) are presented as a novel metal nanoprodrug for ferroptotic therapy against MDR tumors. Under dark conditions, the synthesized Pt‐AuNS exhibit negligible levels of toxicity. Upon exposure of the Pt‐AuNS to near‐infrared (NIR) light, active metallic (Pt and Au) species are released, subsequently inducing cytotoxicity. The mechanism of action is attributed to GSH depletion and GPX4 inactivation, accumulating lipid hydroperoxides, which in turn leads to ferroptosis. In in vivo xenograft, the MDR cancer model confirmed the NIR light‐activation of Pt‐AuNS prodrugs, resulting in efficient ferroptotic therapeutic action against MDR tumors without long‐term side effects. The findings lay the groundwork for using Pt‐AuNS prodrugs responsive to NIR light as ferroptosis‐inducing agents in chemo‐resistant cancer cells and demonstrate their potential for use in future clinical applications.
Epitaxial Growth of PbS Nanocrystals from PbI2 Nanosheet Templates and Its Application in Fast Near‐Infrared Photodetectors
Authors: Jin Zhixin , Hu Chao , Lan Yang , Cao Yulin , Deng Hui , Yang Xiaokun , Wang Jing , Song Haisheng
Published: September 2020

Heterostructures of 0D/2D materials synergistically combine the advantages of two different materials, and photodetectors (PDs) based on such heterostructures demonstrate superior detection properties as compared to those based on each individual material. Here, a facile solution method is proposed for the fabrication of 0D/2D heterostructures to overcome the limitations of the traditional chemical vapor deposition method. The 0D PbS nanocrystals (NCs) are epitaxially grown from 2D‐PbI2 nanosheet templates by a simple wet‐chemical sulfuration process. The resulting heterojunction PDs demonstrate wide detection range up to 2000 nm, a fast photoresponse of ≈400 µs, and a specific detectivity of more than 1012 Jones. The superior device performances are attributed to the underneath PbI2 layer, which can not only be used as the precursor layer but also help to passivate the defect states of PbS NCs. More importantly, the developed Structured II device with Au–PbI2 Schottky contact effect can suppress the dark current of PD to extend its depletion region and improve the response speed. Overall, this study demonstrates a novel strategy for the growth of 0D/2D heterostructures in conjunction with fast near‐infrared detection, which surmount the limitations of photoconductive detectors in terms of large‐scale synthesis and response speed.
Moving Ions Vary Electronic Conductivity in Lead Bromide Perovskite Single Crystals through Dynamic Doping
Authors: García‐Batlle Marisé , Baussens Oriane , Amari Smaïl , Zaccaro Julien , Gros‐Daillon Eric , Verilhac Jean‐Marie , Guerrero Antonio , Garcia‐Belmonte Germà
Published: September 2020

Metal halide perovskite single crystals are being explored as functional materials for a variety of optoelectronic applications. Among others, solar cells, field‐effect transistors, and X‐ and γ‐ray detectors have shown improved performance and stability. However, a general uncertainty exists about the relevant mechanisms governing the electronic operation. This is caused by the presence of mobile ions and how these defect species alter the internal electrical field, interact with the contact materials, or modulate electronic properties. Here, a set of high‐quality thick methylammonium lead tribromide single crystals contacted with low‐reactivity chromium electrodes are analyzed by impedance spectroscopy. Through examination of the sample resistance evolution with bias and releasing time, it is revealed that an interplay exists between the perovskite electronic conductivity and the defect distribution within the crystal bulk. Ion diffusion after bias removing changes the local doping density then governing the electronic transport. These findings indicate that the coupling between ionic and electronic properties relies upon a dynamic doping effect caused by moving ions that act as mobile dopants. In addition to electronic features, the analysis extracts values for the ion diffusivity in the range of 10−8 cm2 s−1 in good agreement with other independent measurements.
Can poverty status explain obesity in developing countries? Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Dogbe Wisdom
Published: September 2020

The relationship between socioeconomic status and obesity remains inconclusive in both developed and developing countries. In Ghana, the rate of reduction in poverty continues to decline as the gap in poverty between urban and rural areas increases. However, the impact of such an economic inequality on body weights has not yet been studied. Using the Ghana Living Standard Survey 2017 (GLSS7) data from the Ghana Statistical Service, I study the link between poverty and body weights in Ghana. The GLSS7 collects detailed information from households, including their socioeconomic characteristics, health, access to financial services, and asset ownership. Due to the endogeneity between poverty status (proxy for income) and obesity, a recursive bivariate probit model is used to estimate the impact of poverty on participants' body weight measured by body mass index. The results suggest a strong negative relationship between poverty and overweight/obesity (p < .00) in the univariate probit model. Marital status, ethnicity, urbanization, and employment types are found to be factors that significantly influence weight status and poverty status. Obesity is also found to be a condition among household heads of higher socioeconomic status in Ghana. [EconLit Citations: C3, D12, D91, I1].
Occupational buckwheat allergy as a cause of allergic rhinitis, asthma, contact urticaria and anaphylaxis—An emerging problem in food‐handling occupations?
Authors: Jungewelter Soile , Airaksinen Liisa , Pesonen Maria
Published: September 2020

Buckwheat is a known, though uncommon, allergen in occupational settings. It has recently gained popularity as healthy food and as an ingredient in gluten‐free diets. We describe a series of six patient cases with occupational immediate allergy to buckwheat. Three cooks, two bakers, and a worker in a grocery store were occupationally exposed to buckwheat flour and developed immediate allergy to buckwheat, which was confirmed by skin prick testing and measurement of specific immunoglobulin E antibodies. Four of the patients were diagnosed with occupational asthma, four with occupational rhinitis, and two with occupational contact urticaria caused by buckwheat. Three of the six patients suffered anaphylaxis as consequence of their occupational buckwheat allergy after ingestion of food that contained buckwheat. The high rate of life‐threatening reactions, together with a short exposure time to buckwheat before sensitization occurred in these cases, highlights the importance of a detailed occupational history and a high index of suspicion for occupational food allergens.
Variable infant care contributions in cooperatively breeding groups of wild saddleback tamarins
Authors: Erb Wendy M. , Porter Leila M.
Published: September 2020

Among non‐human primates, alloparental infant care is most extensive in callitrichines, and is thought to be particularly costly for tamarins whose helpers may suffer increased energy expenditure, weight loss, and reduced feeding time and mobility. The costs and benefits of infant care likely vary among group members yet very few wild studies have investigated variable infant care contributions. We studied infant care over an 8‐month period in four wild groups of saddleback tamarins in Bolivia to evaluate: (a) what forms of infant care are provided, by whom, and when, (b) how individuals adjust their behavior (activity, vigilance, height) while caring for infants, and (c) whether individuals differ in their infant care contributions. We found that infant carrying, food sharing, and grooming varied among groups, and immigrant males—those who joined the group after infants were conceived—participated less in infant care compared to resident males. Adult tamarins fed less, rested more, and increased vigilance while carrying infants. Although we did not detect changes in overall activity budgets between prepartum and postpartum periods, tamarins spent more time scanning their environments postpartum, potentially reflecting increased predation risk to both carriers and infants during this period. Our study provides the first quantitative data on the timing and amount of infant carrying, grooming, and food transfer contributed by all individuals within and among multiple wild groups, filling a critical knowledge gap about the factors affecting infant care, and highlighting evolutionary hypotheses for cooperative breeding in tamarins.
Anisotropic Boron–Carbon Hetero‐Nanosheets for Ultrahigh Energy Density Supercapacitors
Authors: Wu Tianyu , Wu Xingjiang , Li Lianhui , Hao Mingming , Wu Guan , Zhang Ting , Chen Su
Published: September 2020

A 2D boron nanosheet that exhibits high theoretical capacitance, around four times that of graphene, is a significant supercapacitor electrode. However, its bulk structure with low interlaminar conduction and porosity restricts the charge transfer, ion diffusion, and energy density. Herein, we develop a new 2D hetero‐nanosheet made of anisotropic boron–carbon nanosheets (ABCNs) by B−C chemical bonds via gas‐phase exfoliation and condensation bottom‐up strategy. The ABCNs are constructed into high flexible supercapacitor electrode by microfluidic electrospinning. The ABCN electrode greatly promotes smooth migration and excessive storage of electrolyte ions due to large interlayer conductivity, ionic pathways, and accessible surfaces. The flexible supercapacitor delivers ultrahigh volumetric energy density of 167.05 mWh cm−3 and capacitance of 534.5 F cm−3. A wearable energy‐sensor system is designed to stably monitor physiological signals.
From scientific obscurity to conservation priority: Research on angler catch rates is the catalyst for saving the hump‐backed mahseer Tor remadevii from extinction
Authors: Pinder Adrian C. , Raghavan Rajeev , Britton J. Robert
Published: September 2020

The mahseer (Tor spp.) fishes of South and Southeast Asia are iconic megafaunal species that are highly valued by recreational anglers. Knowledge on their populations is limited owing to the challenges associated with sampling these large‐bodied fishes (>50 kg) in remote monsoonal rivers.

Despite its global iconic status among recreational anglers, the hump‐backed mahseer of the Cauvery River (South India) lacked a valid scientific name and was on a trajectory towards extinction until its rapidly declining population status was established by analyses of angler catch records.

Angling records from 1998 to 2012 showed that mahseer catch rates had increased in this period. The resulting publication in Aquatic Conservation (AQC) highlighted the positive role of catch‐and‐release angling in providing information on data‐poor species. However, further analyses showed that these catches comprised not one but two distinct phenotypes.

Before 1993, all mahseer captured were hump‐backed; since then, a blue‐fin phenotype appeared in catches and subsequently dominated them. These results triggered further studies indicating that the hump‐backed mahseer was the endemic Tor remadevii and that the blue‐fin was the invasive Tor khudree, introduced in 1976 and then stocked periodically from hatcheries.

The initial AQC publication successfully demonstrated the high value of organized angling as a monitoring tool for data‐poor fishes and its application to assessing the temporal population patterns of large‐bodied fishes in monsoonal rivers. It was also the catalyst for initiating subsequent studies on T. remadevii that, together, enabled its recent assessment as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. In the absence of the AQC paper, and the subsequent studies that it triggered, it is highly probable that the species would have remained on a trajectory towards rapid extinction. Instead, the first major steps to safeguarding its future have been taken.
An integrated digital microfluidic bioreactor for fully automatic screening of microalgal growth and stress‐induced lipid accumulation
Authors: Wang Yunhua , Zhao Hongyu , Liu Xianming , Lin Wang , Jiang Youwei , Li Jianfeng , Zhang Qian , Zheng Guoxia
Published: September 2020

Algae are the promising feedstock of biofuel. The screening of competent species and proper fertilizer supply is of the most important tasks. To accelerate this rather slow and laborious step, we developed an integrated high‐throughput digital microfluidic (DMF) system that uses a discrete droplet to serve as a microbioreactor, encapsulating microalgal cells. On the basis of fundamental understanding of various droplet hydrodynamics induced by the existence of different sorts of ions and biological species, incorporation of capacitance‐based position estimator, electrode‐saving‐based compensation, and deterministic splitting approach, was performed to optimize the DMF bioreactor. Thus, it enables all processes (e.g., nutrient gradient generation, algae culturing, and analyzing of growth and lipid accumulation) occurring automatically on‐chip especially in a high‐fidelity way. The ability of the system to compare different microalgal strains on‐chip was investigated. Also, the Chlorella sp. were stressed by various conditions and then growth and oil accumulation were analyzed and compared, which demonstrated its potential as a powerful tool to investigate microalgal lipid accumulation at significantly lower laborites and reduced time.
Randomized clinical trial of negative pressure wound therapy as an adjunctive treatment for small-area thermal burns in children
Authors: Frear C C , Cuttle L , McPhail S M , Chatfield M D , Kimble R M , Griffin B R
Published: September 2020

Background

The efficacy of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in the acute management of burns remains unclear. The purpose of this trial was to compare standard Acticoat™ and Mepitel™ dressings with combined Acticoat™, Mepitel™ and continuous NPWT to determine the effect of adjunctive NPWT on re-epithelialization in paediatric burns.

Methods

This two-arm, single-centre RCT recruited children with acute thermal burns covering less than 5 per cent of their total body surface area. The primary outcome was time to re-epithelialization. Blinded assessments were performed using photographs captured every 3–5 days until discharge. Secondary measures included pain, itch, grafting, perfusion and scar management referrals.

Results

Some 114 patients were randomized. Median time to re-epithelialization was 8 (i.q.r. 7–11) days in the NPWT group and 10 (8–14) days in the control group. In a multivariable model, NPWT decreased the expected time to wound closure by 22 (95 per cent c.i. 7 to 34) per cent (P = 0·005). The risk of referral to scar management was reduced by 60 (18 to 81) per cent (P = 0·013). Four participants in the control group and one in the NPWT group underwent grafting. There were no statistically significant differences between groups in pain, itch or laser Doppler measures of perfusion. Adverse events were rare and minor, although NPWT carried a moderate treatment burden, with ten patients discontinuing early.

Conclusion

Adjunctive NPWT hastened re-epithelialization in small-area burn injuries in children, but had a greater treatment burden than standard dressings alone. Registration number: ACTRN12618000256279 (http://ANZCTR.org.au).
Remodeling of brain morphology in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Roggenhofer Elisabeth , Muller Sandrine , Santarnecchi Emiliano , Melie‐Garcia Lester , Wiest Roland , Kherif Ferath , Draganski Bogdan
Published: September 2020

Background

Mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is one of the most widespread neurological network disorders. Computational anatomy MRI studies demonstrate a robust pattern of cortical volume loss. Most statistical analyses provide information about localization of significant focal differences in a segregationist way. Multivariate Bayesian modeling provides a framework allowing inferences about inter‐regional dependencies. We adopt this approach to answer following questions: Which structures within a pattern of dynamic epilepsy‐associated brain anatomy reorganization best predict TLE pathology. Do these structures differ between TLE subtypes?

Methods

We acquire clinical and MRI data from TLE patients with and without hippocampus sclerosis (n = 128) additional to healthy volunteers (n = 120). MRI data were analyzed in the computational anatomy framework of SPM12 using classical mass‐univariate analysis followed by multivariate Bayesian modeling.

Results

After obtaining TLE‐associated brain anatomy pattern, we estimate predictive power for disease and TLE subtypes using Bayesian model selection and comparison. We show that ipsilateral para‐/hippocampal regions contribute most to disease‐related differences between TLE and healthy controls independent of TLE laterality and subtype. Prefrontal cortical changes are more discriminative for left‐sided TLE, whereas thalamus and temporal pole for right‐sided TLE. The presence of hippocampus sclerosis was linked to stronger involvement of thalamus and temporal lobe regions; frontoparietal involvement was predominant in absence of sclerosis.

Conclusions

Our topology inferences on brain anatomy demonstrate a differential contribution of structures within limbic and extralimbic circuits linked to main effects of TLE and hippocampal sclerosis. We interpret our results as evidence for TLE‐related spatial modulation of anatomical networks.
Introducing a robotic hand to support lecture‐based courses on mechatronics systems design at the undergraduate level
Authors: Garcia Ivan , Guzmán‐Ramírez Enrique , Arias‐Montiel Manuel , Lugo‐González Esther
Published: September 2020

The education of young mechatronics engineers is crucial for the development of powerful and sophisticated products in a modern marketplace where the best technology is having the greatest economic impact. Therefore, this paper aims to design and introduce a robotic hand to facilitate and accelerate the teaching/learning process when designing mechatronics systems in different undergraduate lecture‐based courses and, consequently, gain more practical experience under a “hands‐on” experience. The results from an evaluation carried out at a Mexican university present the design and implementation of a movement control system for recognition of hand gestures. Quantitative and qualitative data are also provided to demonstrate that students experienced high‐positive perceptions during the evaluation.
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium in a young healthy adult with plans for air travel
Authors: Winterton Joseph , Biart Simon
Published: September 2020

Although rare, pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium should be considered in patients presenting with sudden onset post‐tussive chest discomfort.
Increasing the Complexity in the MIL‐53 Structure: The Combination of the Mixed‐Metal and the Mixed‐Linker Concepts
Authors: Bitzer Johannes , Teubnerová Milada , Kleist Wolfgang
Published: September 2020

The isoreticular mixed‐component concept is a promising approach to tailor the material properties of metal–organic frameworks. While isoreticular mixed‐metal or mixed‐linker materials are commonly synthesized, the combination of both concepts for the development of isoreticular materials featuring both two metals and two linkers is still rarely investigated. Herein, we present the development of mixed‐metal/mixed‐linker MIL‐53 materials that contain different metal combinations (Al/Sc, Al/V, Al/Cr, Al/Fe) and different linker ratios (terephthalate/2‐aminoterephthalate). The possibility of changing the metal combination and the linker ratio independently from each other enables a large variety of modifications. A thorough characterization (PXRD, ATR‐IR, TGA, 1H NMR, ICP‐OES) confirmed that all components were incorporated into the framework structure with a statistical distribution. Nitrogen physisorption measurements showed that the breathing behavior can be tailored by adjusting the linker ratio for all metal combinations. All materials were successfully used for post‐synthetic modification reactions with maleic anhydride.
Die Fraunhofer‐Gesellschaft
Authors: Evers Jürgen , Herzog Christiane , Möckl Leonhard
Published: September 2020

Die Fraunhofer‐Gesellschaft (FhG) wurde auf Initiative des Staatssekretärs Hugo Geiger vom Bayerischen Wirtschaftsministerium am 26.März 1949 gegründet. Ungewöhnlich für die damalige Zeit war die Verbindung von Wissenschaft mit der Wirtschaft zu angewandter Forschung. Dieses spiegelte sich in der Wahl des Namenspatrons der Gesellschaft, Joseph von Fraunhofer, wider, der es in München vom einfachen Glasergesellen bis zum Physik‐Professor gebracht hatte. Gleichzeitig war Fraunhofer ein weitsichtiger Unternehmer, der seine wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse schnell in innovative Produkte überführte, die zum Verkauf geeignet waren. Die neu gegründete FhG musste sich als dritte Säule der deutschen Forschungslandschaft neben der Max‐Planck‐Gesellschaft (MPG) und der Deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) Anerkennung verschaffen. Sowohl seitens der MPG wie auch der DFG wurde der Aufstieg der FhG anfangs erschwert. Doch als die Grundfinanzierung der FhG durch das Bundesforschungsministerium übernommen wurde, begann ein steiler Aufstieg zur heutigen internationalen Bedeutung.
Sulfonamide Inhibitors of β‐Catenin Signaling as Anticancer Agents with Different Output on c‐MYC
Authors: Di Magno Laura , Di Pastena Fiorella , Puxeddu Michela , La Regina Giuseppe , Coluccia Antonio , Ciogli Alessia , Manetto Simone , Maroder Marella , Canettieri Gianluca , Silvestri Romano , Nalli Marianna
Published: September 2020

The Wnt/β‐catenin pathway is often found deregulated in cancer. The aberrant accumulation of β‐catenin in the cell nucleus results in the development of various malignancies. Specific drugs against this signaling pathway for clinical treatments have not been approved yet. Herein we report inhibitors of β‐catenin signaling of potential therapeutic value as anticancer agents. Ethyl 4‐((4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)sulfonamido)benzoate (compound 14) inhibits the effect on Wnt reporter with an IC50 value of 7.0 μM, significantly reduces c‐MYC levels, inhibits HCT116 colon cancer cell growth (IC50 20.2 μM), does not violate Lipinski and Veber rules, and shows predicted Caco‐2 and MDCK cell permeability Papp>500 nm s−1. Compound 14 seems to have potential for the development of new anticancer therapies.
Dictionary lookup with one genome evolution operation
Authors: Zhang Meng , Zhang Yi , Sun Yuming
Published: September 2020

Given an m‐length query string q, approximate dictionary lookup searches for strings in a string dictionary D at a distance of 1 to q under some distances. In biological retrieval systems, the distances in such queries are defined by evolution operations on genomes. We consider the approximate dictionary lookup with one genome evolution operation including reversal and transposition, which searches for strings in D that can be generated from q by one reversal or one transposition. When the length of the reversed substring is confined to a constant α>1, we propose an O(m)‐time approach which uses bits space, where the dictionary D has d strings with totally |D| symbols. If the lengths of the reversals are in a range [α,β], the time for query is , and the space is words for any constant ε, in which occ is the number of matched strings. For problems allowing one transposition, when the length of the transposition is fixed to α, the time for a dictionary lookup is , while using words. In the case that the two swapped substrings are of the same length, the time for answering the query is O(m), while the space is bits.
Sustainable Chemistry – An Interdisciplinary Matrix Approach
Authors: Richter Michael , Vieira Luciana , Sieber Volker
Published: September 2020

Within the framework of green chemistry, the continuous development of new and advanced tools for sustainable synthesis is essential. For this, multi‐facetted underlying demands pose inherent challenges to individual chemical disciplines. As a solution, both interdisciplinary technology screening and research can enhance the possibility for groundbreaking innovation. To illustrate the stages from discovery to the implementing of combined technologies, a SusChem matrix model is proposed inspired by natural product biosynthesis. The model describes a multi‐dimensional and dynamic exploratory space where necessary interaction is exclusively provided and guided by sustainable themes.
Comparison of neurotransmitter levels, physiological conditions, and emotional behavior between isolation‐housed rats with group‐housed rats
Authors: Kaneda Yuta , Kawata Akira , Suzuki Kota , Matsunaga Daisuke , Yasumatsu Mikinobu , Ishiwata Takayuki
Published: September 2020

Brain monoaminergic neurotransmitters, such as dopamine (DA), serotonin (5‐HT), and noradrenaline (NA), play crucial roles in neuronal and physiological functions, including social behaviors. Isolation housing may induce behavioral and neurochemical abnormalities in rats, although its influence on neurotransmitter levels remains obscure. This study investigated the influence of isolation‐ or group‐housing on core body temperature (Tcore), locomotor activity (ACT), emotional behavior, and neurotransmitter levels in male Wistar rats. Behavioral changes were monitored using the open field test (OFT) and social interaction test (SIT). After 4 weeks, brain tissues were collected to quantify 5‐HT, DA, and NA concentrations. Body weight and basal Tcore during both the light and dark phase were higher in isolation‐housed than in group‐housed rats, although no significant difference was seen in ACT. No significant differences were observed during the OFT. Isolation‐housed rats showed increased line crossing and decreased social behavior during the SIT. Isolation‐housed rats exhibited decreased levels of 5‐HT in the caudate putamen and amygdala, and elevated and decreased NA levels in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus and hippocampus, respectively. However, DA levels were unaffected. Thus, housing environments may affect brain areas that regulate various neuronal and physiological functions, such as memory, stress responses, and emotional behavior.
Characterization of flow interactions in an axial fan stage
Authors: Ghenaiet Adel
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study is to characterize the steady and unsteady flows of a high‐speed axial fan stage and assess its aerodynamic performance parameters. The flow unsteadiness is related to the stator‐rotor interaction originated mainly by two mechanisms: the first is attributed to the potential effect and the second to the wake‐blade interaction and the mixing through the blades' passages. Such effects are dependent on the circumferential positions of blades and inter‐distance between stator and rotor, which could be alleviated by understanding these flow interactions. The pressure waves' main diametrical modes (two blades interacting with two vanes) and their sequences are predicted analytically. FFT analysis of the computed static pressure fluctuations at different monitor points allowed identifying the prevailing modes of interaction and their frequencies and sequence. The assessment of inter‐distance is an important step toward identifying the detrimental effects of axial interdistance on the aerodynamic performance. The closer the blade‐rows of this fan stage can be spaced, the more compact the cooling system of an automotive could be designed.
Juice fromFructus Rosae Roxburghiinormalizes blood lipids in mice with diet‐induced hyperlipidemia*†
Authors: Song Pingping , Shen Xiangchun
Published: September 2020

Fructus Rosae Roxburghii(FRR) as a dietary supplement is considered to possess anti‐atherosclerosis (AS), and hyperlipidemia (HLP) is material basis for AS formation, so the effects and molecular mechanism of FRR on diet‐induced hyperlipidemic mice were explored. In Diet IV2 group, hepatic steatosis was significantly relieved; meanwhile, TC, TG, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, and ASI in serum were regulated to control level. Thirty‐seven DCEG in Diet I, Diet II, and Diet IV2 groups were obtained by RNA‐seq analysis. Relative mRNA levels were further determined by qRT‐PCR, of which 28 genes were matched with those detected by RNA‐seq. Ten DCEP were verified by targeted quantitative proteomic analysis, but expressive patterns of only six proteins were correlated with qRT‐PCR data. These DCEG and DCEP played important roles in regulating the biosynthesis of BAs and steroids, fatty acid metabolism, and LPO production. They might cooperatively regulate the function of HDL or RCT by PPAR signaling pathway under the FRR action. As we know, it is the first time the potential anti‐atherosclerotic mechanism of FRR regulating the blood lipids was explored.
Anatexis of the deeply subducted continental crust during exhumation: A case study of Rongcheng migmatite in the Sulu orogen
Authors: Yang Shaoji , Xu Haijin , Wang Pan , Zhang Junfeng , Liu Qiang
Published: September 2020

Migmatite in the Sulu ultra‐highpressure (UHP) terrane is an ideal sample to provide information on anatexis during the exhumation of the deeply subducted continental crust. The studied migmatite is composed of the leucosome and melanosome with strongly ductile shear deformation. Petrographic observations clearly show an anatexis process, for example, cuspate and triangular K‐feldspars in triple junction and along grain boundaries, felsic veinlets and pockets mainly consisting of K‐feldspar + quartz + plagioclase ± biotite. The zircon grains of the migmatite have a core‐rim structure: the inherited magmatic core and the anatectic overgrowth rim. The inherited cores exhibit oscillatory zonings in the cathodoluminescence (CL) images and display strong heavy rare earth element (HREE) enrichment with clearly positive Ce and negative Eu anomalies. The inherited cores have an upper intercept U‐Pb age of 814 ± 45 Ma withεHf(t) values of −5.6 to ‐10.6 (mean = −8.5 ± 0.8,n= 16). Thus, protolith of the migmatite is a mid‐Neoproterozoic granitic rock. The overgrowth rims exhibit a typical anatexis genesis, that is, a bright homogeneous luminescence in the CL images, very low Th/U ratios (<0.02) with low U (<100 ppm) and Th (<1 ppm) contents, and lower total REE and Y contents with lower (Gd/Lu)Nratios and higher Hf/Y ratios than the inherited cores. They are Late Triassic with ages ranging from 211 to 234 Ma (mean = 223 ± 8 Ma), which, combined with previous studies on the Sulu UHP terrane, suggests that the anatexis occurred during the early exhumation stage. They have higher Ti‐in‐zircon temperatures ranging from 760 to 813°C (mean = 791 ± 16°C) than the pre‐anatexis zircon (244 ± 5 Ma and 739°C), suggesting a ‘hot’ exhumation. They haveεHf(t) values of −17.6 to −14.5 (mean = −15.5 ± 0.6) which are lower than the estimated value (~12.0) on the crustal evolution array, suggesting an addition of crustal fluid during the anatexis. The anatexis also dramatically affected the zircon Lu–Hf isotopic system, that is,176Yb/177Hf and176Lu/177Hf isotopic ratios are markedly decreased but initial176Hf/177Hf ratios are increased from the inherited magmatic cores to the anatectic rims. Thus, we propose that the anatexis plays a critical role in the exhumation of the UHP metamorphic rocks. The anatexis could lubricate the subducted slices and further facilitate their buoyant rise from the mantle depth to the crustal level.
Social factors that predict cognitive decline in older African American adults
Authors: Pugh Erika , De Vito Alyssa , Divers Ross , Robinson Anthony , Weitzner Daniel S. , Calamia Matthew
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Projections from the United States Census Bureau suggest that the African American population may be the fastest growing race over the next 30 years and that they may be at the highest risk for developing dementia later in life. Various social factors have been shown to be associated with cognitive function and health outcomes. The present study aims to evaluate the relationship between social engagement and cognitive decline in a cohort of older African American adults.

Methods

We utilized multilevel modeling to examine the association between cognitive decline and social engagement in a sample of 617 older African American adults.

Results

Social activity was associated with global cognition, perceptual speed, perceptual orientation, and episodic memory over time. Loneliness was associated with better semantic memory performance over time. Perceived discrimination was associated with better semantic memory performance over time. Larger social network was associated with worse perceptual speed scores over time.

Conclusions

Although our findings on loneliness and perceived discrimination over time were inconsistent with prior research, our findings on social activity and social network size over time were consistent with past literature and are thought to be due to positive social interactions providing a catalyst for cognitively stimulating activities. These results suggest that interventions designed to preserve cognition in African American older adults should incorporate adequate social activity. Furthermore, to maximize effectiveness, interventions should not necessarily focus on just expanding one's social network.
Recent advances in chimeric antigen receptor natural killer cell therapy for overcoming intractable hematological malignancies
Authors: Tanaka Junji
Published: September 2020

Natural killer (NK) cells have a potent cytotoxic activity against leukemia and lymphoma without recognition of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules. Chimeric antigen receptor‐engineered NK cells (CAR‐NK cells) can be produced from the NK92 cell line, peripheral blood, cord blood, and induced pluripotent stem cells for immunotherapy of malignant tumor cells. Recently, the safety and efficacy of HLA‐mismatched allogeneic cord blood‐derived CD19 CAR‐NK cell therapy for CD19‐positive hematological malignancies have been reported. However, the durability of clinical effects has not been clarified. The characteristics of CAR‐NK cells with a strong antileukemia/lymphoma effect and better proliferative capacity without severe adverse effects may be promising for overcoming intractable hematological malignancies as an off‐the‐shelf allogeneic cellular therapy.
River management response to multi‐decade changes in timing of reservoir inflows, Columbia River Basin, USA
Authors: Jones Julia A. , Hammond John C.
Published: September 2020

Around the world, long‐term changes in the timing and magnitude of streamflow are testing the ability of large managed water resource systems constructed in the 20th century to continue to meet objectives in the 21st century. Streamflow records for unregulated rivers upstream of reservoirs can be combined with records downstream of reservoirs using a paired‐watershed framework and concepts of water resource system performance to assess how reservoir management has responded to long‐term change. Using publicly available data, this study quantified how the intra‐annual timing of inflows and outflows of 25 major reservoirs has shifted, how management has responded, and how this has influenced reliability and vulnerability of the water resource system in the 668,000 km2 Columbia River basin from 1950 to 2012. Reservoir inflows increased slightly in early spring and declined in late spring to early fall, but reservoir outflows increased in late summer from 1950 to 2012. Average inflows to reservoirs in the low flow period exceeded outflows in the1950s, but inflows are now less than outflows. Reservoirs have increased hedging, that is, they have stored more water during the spring, in order to meet the widening gap between inflows and outflows during the summer low flow period. For a given level of reliability (the fraction of time flow targets were met), vulnerability (the maximum departure from the flow target) was greater during periods with lower than average inflows. Thus, the water management system in this large river basin has adjusted to multi‐decade trends of declining inflows, but vulnerability, that is, the potential for excess releases in spring and shortfalls in summer, has increased. This study demonstrates the value of combining publicly available historical data on streamflow with concepts from paired‐watershed analyses and metrics of water resource performance to detect, evaluate, and manage water resource systems in large river basins.
Credit information and financial development
Authors: de Moraes Claudio O. , Duarte Gustavo F.S. , Nascimento Renan F.
Published: September 2020

This article evaluates the possible effects of the presence and coverage of credit bureaus over financial development. In order to achieve this objective, this study uses International Monetary Fund aside from World Bank database and standards, more specifically financial development and credit bureau coverage variables. Results indicate a positive impact of credit bureaus over financial development. The potential channel associated with this effect might be related to the information produced by credit bureaus, which implies a reduction in asymmetric information in credit markets, thus, leading to a lower level of risk associated with borrowers and, consequently, reducing the risks faced by banks. With lower levels of uncertainty and risk, banks tend to lend more, improving financial development, which could suggest the adoption of a policy to create or stimulate credit bureaus coverage.
Effects of cold atmospheric pressure plasma and disinfecting agents on Candida albicans in root canals of extracted human teeth
Authors: Kerlikowski Anne , Matthes Rutger , Pink Christiane , Steffen Heike , Schlüter Rabea , Holtfreter Birte , Weltmann Klaus‐Dieter , von Woedtke Thomas , Kocher Thomas , Jablonowski Lukasz
Published: September 2020

Reinfection in endodontically treated teeth is linked to the complexity of the root canal system, which is problematic to reach with conventional disinfection methods. As plasma is expected to have the ability to sanitize narrow areas, the aim of this study was to analyze the effect of cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAP) on Candida albicans in root canals of extracted human teeth. CAP was applied as mono treatment and in combination with standard endodontic disinfectants (sodium hypochlorite, chlorhexidine and octenidine). Disinfection efficiency was evaluated as reduction of the logarithm of colony forming units per milliliter (log10 CFU/mL) supported by scanning electron microscopy as imaging technique. Plasma alone showed the highest reduction of log10 CFU, suggesting the best disinfection properties of all tested agents.