bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Framework for Assessing the Creativity Manifested in the Emergent Outcomes of Open-Ended Tasks Based on a “Puzzle”
Authors: Ramaraj Arulmalar , Nagammal Jothilakshmy
Published: September 2020

In creative disciplines, “basic design” is offered as a foundation course to foster diverse thinking skills and creativity. The tasks are generally framed based on the principles such as “progressive transformation,” “borrowing,” and “deconstruction.” The emergent outcomes of such tasks are unique and very challenging to evaluate. In this context, this chapter aims to discuss a framework for assessing the creativity manifested in the emergent outcomes of generative tasks based on a puzzle. Three tasks based on “TANGRAM,” a dissection puzzle with slight variations, were formulated. The task was introduced as a practicum at a faculty development program conducted at the AMS School of Architecture in association with the Council of Architecture, India. Besides, the framed tasks were introduced as an assignment for a theory course and also as a basic design task at the Department of architecture, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, India. The emergent outcomes are explored, decoded, and analyzed. The findings are triangulated and a framework is developed that can be suitably modified so as to investigate the degrees of creativity manifested in the emergent outcomes of an open-ended task.
Eggshell and Seashells Biomaterials Sorbent for Carbon Dioxide Capture
Authors: Hart Abarasi , Onyeaka Helen
Published: September 2020

This review aims to explore the application of natural and renewable bioceramics such as eggshell and seashells in carbon dioxide (CO2) capture from power plant flue gas. CO2 capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) is considered a means to deliver low carbon energy, decarbonising industries, power plants and facilitates the net removal of CO2 from the atmosphere. The stages involved include CO2 capture, transport of the captured CO2, utilisation and secure storage of the captured CO2. This chapter reports the use of eggshell and seashells biomaterials as an adsorbent to separate CO2 from other gases generated by power plants and industrial processes. The capture of carbon dioxide by adsorption is based on the ability of a material to preferentially adsorb or carbonate CO2 over other gases. In light of this, calcined eggshell and seashells biomaterial rich in calcium carbonate from which calcium oxide (94%) can be obtained have demonstrated a strong affinity for CO2. These biomaterials are abundant and low-cost alternative to zeolite, activated carbon and molecular sieve carbon. The mechanism of CO2 capture by eggshell and seashells derived CaO adsorbent comprises of a series of carbonation-calcination reactions (CCR): calcium oxide (CaO) reacts with CO2 resulting in calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which releases pure CO2 stream upon calcinations for sequestration or utilisation, and as a consequence, the biomaterial is regenerated. Findings reveal that these biomaterials can hold up to eight times its own weight of CO2 from flue gas stream. It was also found that the combination of 2 M acetic acid and water pretreatment improved the reactivity and capture capacity of the biomaterial for successive regeneration over four cycle’s usage. Unlike activated carbon, these biomaterials are considered stable for high-temperature adsorption through carbonation.
The Antibacterial Activity and Phytochemical Compounds of Citrus grandis Extract Against Human Infective Bacteria
Authors: Alamholo Mostafa , Shojaemehr Mohaddeseh
Published: September 2020

Background: With the presence of secondary metabolites that have antimicrobial properties and bacterial resistance against antibiotics, medicinal plants have attracted the attention of researchers in the pharmaceutical industry. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and antioxidant activity and phytochemical compounds of Citrus grandis extract against human infection bacteria in-vitro. Methods: Samples of Citrus grandis were collected from the north of Iran and assessed in terms of the antibacterial activity, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) using the agar well diffusion method. In addition, the anti-radical activity was determined by DPPH, total phenols were measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, and flavonoids were determined using aluminum chloride. The presence of alkaloid, saponin, and tannin was also investigated. Data analysis was performed in SPSS. Results: The colored and white skin methanol extract of C. grandis indicated more significant inhibitory effects on Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Micrococcus luteus. The total phenol content of the colored and white skin was estimated at 79.71 and 71.63 mgGA/g, and the flavonoid level was determined to be 3.63 and 4.06 mgQ/g, respectively. The IC50 of the colored and white skin methanol extract and ascorbic acid were estimated at 0.1251, 0.1376, and 0.1095 mg.mL-1, respectively. The methanol extract of the colored skin showed the presence of alkaloid, while the white skin showed the presence of alkaloid and saponin. Conclusions: According to the results, the C. grandis extract had antioxidant and antibacterial properties due to the presence of secondary metabolites. Therefore, it is recommended that natural and rare drugs be produced to control pathogenic bacteria in the pharmaceutical industry.
NEAR INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY AND SPIROERGOMETRY TESTING IN CROSSFIT
Authors: Schlegel Petr , Hiblbauer Jan , Agricola Adrian
Published: September 2020

PURPOSE CrossFit is a young sport discipline which offers varied strength and endurance training through complex exercises. Currently there are relatively few studies focusing on performance analysis in terms of the physiological response of organism. The aim of the research was to verify near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in combination with spiroergometry as a functional means for specific load testing in CrossFit. METHODS Elite crossfitter (male, age 20, body height 185 cm, body weight 87 kg) formed part of this study. Two Moxy sensors (placed on the vastus lateralis muscle and the intercostal muscles) and chest (strap) heart rate (HR) sensor were used for obtaining the data. The Cortex MetaMax 3BR2 system was used for portable spiroergometry. The AMRAP method (as many repetitions as possible) was used for testing. The selected test consisted of (1) 10 Deadlifts, 100kg, 15 Assault Air Bike Calories; (2) 12 lunges (with two 20 kg Kettlebell), 10 push-ups, 8 ring swings; (3) 20 SkiErg Calories, 10 50kg back squat, 10 toes to bar. RESULTS The testing has confirmed that breathing functions and muscle oxidation can be well observed under load in given exercises and movements. It has been confirmed that CrossFit provides a very varied load to which the organism must respond immediately. The strength load changes, causing deflection in SmO2 and VCO2 which consequently imposes demands on the respiratory component. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study which monitors the load in the combination of strength and endurance load through crossfit elements. Based on our result, it seems that linking NIRS and spirometry is a suitable combination for a comprehensive analysis of the athlete not only for CrossFit.
Transfer of Muscle Strength Between Single-Joint and Multi-Joint Exercises for Lower Limbs
Authors: Hammerová Tereza , Chlápek Jan , Králová Tereza , Vodička Tomáš , Hlavoňová Zuzana , Ondráček Jan
Published: September 2020

Most strength and conditioning coaches deal with the question in the training plan, how to supplement specific exercises, or which non-specific exercises would be the most suitable for achieving the set purpose. This study aims to assess what strength transfer with a focus on the lower limbs is projected from the selected strength intervention program (the right leg exercises only single-joint exercises: leg extension on machine and leg curl; the left leg exercises only multi-joint exercises: deadlift and leg press) to the force of the knee joint flexors and extensors during the eccentric and the concentric contraction. In one training session, the participants repeated every exercise five times in four series. The load intensity was around 90% of 1RM and was increased by 5% after the first and the fifth week. The rest interval was always three minutes long. For the left lower limb, the highest transfer (0.20) was from the leg press to the knee joint extensor at the eccentric contraction and from the deadlift was the highest transfer (0.19) to the knee joint extensor at the eccentric contraction. For the right lower limb, the highest transfer (0.53) was from the leg extension on a machine to the knee joint flexor at the concentric contraction and from the lying leg curl was the highest transfer (0.47) to the knee joint flexor at the concentric contraction.
Structure and performance-related changes in puberty in a group of ice hockey players
Authors: Krajňák Jakub
Published: September 2020

The article deals with structure and performance-related changes occurring in the beginning of puberty in relation to ice-hockey players of the older pupil category. 20 male players born in 2005 and in 2006 of corresponding biological age underwent measuring of their somatic parameters, balance and specific performance on ice. To evaluate the maturity age, the Roche-Wainer-Thissen method was used; moreover, the Star excursion balance test (SEBT) was used to assess the balance and the Illinois agility test (IAT) without a puck was used to assess the performance on ice.The results show that players born in 2005 show bigger structural changes in comparison with those born in 2006; nevertheless, no differences in somatotypology were found. As far as performance is concerned, the players born in 2005 were faster in the IAT while those born in 2006 displayed bigger reaches in SEBT – specifically in the anteromedial (AM), medial (M), posteromedial (PM), posterior (P), posterolateral (PL), anterolateral (AL) direction and the composite score (COMP). These findings strongly indicate that IAT depends on the production of strength which was bigger due to the structural changes. The SEBT results of the players born in 2005 may have been influenced by the puberty spurt during which adolescents’ coordination stagnates due to a worsened postural control. The growth of body proportionality may have led to lever changes and to ineffective motor control while dealing with a new motor task as well. Another reason for the above-mentioned may also be muscle shortening.
Comparison of infertility of Varroa destructor in resistant and control colonies of the Iraqi honeybee (Apis mellifera meda)
Authors: Moradpour Farzad
Published: September 2020

In the current study, the infertility of Varroa mite was compared in resistant (VSH) and control honeybee colonies at the University of Garmian of Iraq. At each stage, the infestation rate, the percentage of fertile mites, the percentage of infertile mites, the number of cells containing mite eggs, and the number of protonymphs and deutonymphs were counted. Percentages of infestation in resistant and control colonies were 6.2 ± 0.9 and 10.9 ± 1.2, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in the percentage of infested cells between the control and resistant groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, 56.3% of the resistant colonies and 37.50% of the control colonies showed hygienic behaviour (VHS). Resistant colonies showed hygienic behaviour (VHS) regarding the removal of infested pupae and reducing the infestation in colonies compared to control colonies. Mean total infertility in resistant and control colonies were 1.4 ± 0.4 and 1.1 ± 0.3, respectively. Also, the total mean of protonymphs, deutonymphs, and eggs in resistant and control colonies were 0.06, 1.3 ± 0.4, and 2.6 ± 0.8 in resistant colonies and 0.2, 1.3 ± 0.8, and 2.6 ± 1 in control colonies. The results showed that VSH behaviour in adult bees reduces the rate of infestation by Varroa mites in pupas.
In Versilia scienza e società lavorano insieme per la gestione della risorsa acqua
Authors: Rosi Mauro
Published: September 2020

I convegni sull’ambiente di Villa Bertelli a Forte dei Marmi, si pongono l’obiettivo di fare dialogare scienza, rappresentanti del territorio e mondo della scuola per analizzare le sfide ambientali del comprensorio Apuo-Versiliese. Il fine ultimo di questi eventi è quello di mettere a disposizione degli organi di governo e gestionali del territorio e professionisti, elementi conoscitivi rigorosi ed oggettivi necessari a indentificare i problemi e le possibili soluzioni e a guidare le strategie di medio e lungo periodo [...].
Identification of fertility-related genes for maize CMS-S via Bulked Segregant RNA-Seq
Authors: Qin Xiner , Zhang Wenliang , Dong Xue , Tian Shike , Zhang Panpan , Zhao Yanxin , Wang Yi , Yan Jianbing , Yue Bing
Published: September 2020

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) is extensively used in maize hybrid production, and identification of genes related to fertility restoration for CMS is important for hybrid breeding. The fertility restoration of S type CMS is governed by several loci with major and minor effects, while the mechanism of fertility restoration for CMS-S is still unknown. In this study, BSR-Seq was conducted with two backcrossing populations with the fertility restoration genes,Rf3andRf10, respectively. Genetic mapping via BSR-Seq verified the positions of the two loci. A total of 353 and 176 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the male fertility and male sterile pools were identified in the populations withRf3andRf10, respectively. In total, 265 DEGs were co-expressed in the two populations, which were up-regulated in the fertile plants, and they might be related to male fertility involving in anther or pollen development. Moreover, 35 and seven DEGs were specifically up-regulated in the fertile plants of the population withRf3andRf10, respectively. Function analysis of these DEGs revealed that jasmonic acid (JA) signal pathway might be involved in theRf3mediated fertility restoration for CMS-S, while the small ubiquitin-related modifier system could play a role in the fertility restoration ofRf10.
Observations of an aggregation between two species of Australian elapid snakes: the threatened Little Whip Snake Parasuta flagellum and Common Eastern Brown Snake Pseudonaja textilis
Authors: Hansen Nicole A. , Oliver Damon L.
Published: September 2020

This short note presents field observations of a pair of adult threatened Little Whip Snakes Parasuta flagellum and a pair of juvenile Common Eastern Brown Snakes Pseudonaja textilis in an aggregation beneath artificially placed Masonite board used in the Turallo Nature Reserve long-term Little Whip Snake monitoring program. The observation represents the first documented record of an interspecific aggregation between these two species. Presumably, there may be thermal or anti-predatory advantages for the Little Whip Snake by aggregating with other snakes, particularly when both species are of a similar size. However, similar behaviours may also have fitness disadvantages including food competition, and potentially predation as the Common Eastern Brown Snake neonates grow and surpass the substantially smaller Little Whip Snake and warrants further experimental research.
Development of Electrically Aerated Stove for Pyrolyzed Briquettes
Authors: Fadele O. K. , Usman M. B. , Ariyo O. C. , Emeghara U. U. , Adelani D. O. , Oloyede D. O.
Published: September 2020

In this study, an electrically aerated stove was developed using locally available materials. The performance of the stove was evaluated by utilizing briquettes produced from pyrolyzed jatropha shell and Eucalyptus camadulensis wood shavings. Thermal parameters such as thermal efficiency, power output, specific fuel consumption and burning rate were determined. The mean values obtained for the thermal efficiency, power output, specific fuel consumption and burning rate were 7.62 %, 1685 J/s, 0.2377 g/g, 330.90 g/hr respectively. The performance of the briquette stove was considered to not be suboptimal. The thermal efficiency can further be improved by proper insulation and adequate utilization of the heat generated in the combustion chamber.
Safety of Bariatric Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Is There a Need to Screen Low-Risk Patients?
Authors: Aljohani Emad A. , Almadi Fahad A. , Basardah Rami A. , Banjar Mohammad S. , Almufawez Khadeejah A. , Tamimi Hamdi A.
Published: September 2020

Background

There seems to be a general consensus in the current published literature on postponing elective, nonurgent surgery on COVID-19–positive patients. However, thus far, no recommendations have been published on when and how to start carrying out elective, nonurgent surgery on COVID-19–negative patients after the epidemic peak.

Objective

The aims of the study are to determine the best approach for reintroduction of elective procedures based on their preoperative screening by the respiratory scoring system and to provide a scientific base for solid elective surgery protocols that may be implemented in the moment when a country or region meets the criteria to implement elective, nonurgent procedures.

Methodology

This was a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent bariatric surgery between March and June 2020, during the pandemic of COVID-19. The study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2 different health institutions. The study participants were men and women with a body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2 and with a respiratory score of ≤3. The data were analyzed on SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics for quantitative variables were reported as mean ± SD or median (interquartile range [IQR]). The qualitative variables were reported as frequency and percentage.

Results

The total number of patients was 90. The mean age of the patients was 32.73 ± 7.81 years, and a greater proportion (n = 48; 56.5%) of them were men. The mean BMI of the patients was 42.29 ± 7.40 kg/m2. About 37 (41.1%) patients reported a previous history of surgery. Moreover, 36 (40.0%) patients presented with comorbidities. Only 1 (1.1%) patient was tested for COVID-19 by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) before surgery and tested negative. We observed that most patients (n = 80; 88.9% ) underwent lap sleeve gastrectomy. The median length of surgery was 50 (IQR, 17) minutes, and the median length of hospital stay was 36 (IQR, 24) hours. After surgery, none of the patients developed any complications, and none were admitted to the intensive care unit. After surgery, only 2 (2.2%) patients were tested for COVID-19 by RT-PCR, and 100% tested negative.

Conclusion

During the COVID-19 pandemic, before considering patients for elective surgery, they should be screened. For patients who are obese or have underlying comorbidities, if on screening, their respiratory score is ≤3, indicating low risk of respiratory illness, elective procedures should continue. Strict precautionary measures should be followed, and a limited number of surgeries should be performed.
How Selection Acts on Chromosomal Inversions
Authors: Durmaz Esra , Kerdaffrec Envel , Katsianis Georgios , Kapun Martin , Flatt Thomas
Published: September 2020

Chromosomal inversions are structural mutations that invert the orientation and thus the sequence of a chromosomal segment; in diploid heterozygous individuals, when one chromosome carries the inverted segment and the other homologous chromosome is noninverted, recombination is strongly or even completely suppressed. Most inversions are deleterious or neutral, but occasionally they are beneficial. Positive selection can establish a new, initially rare inversion via indirect (linked) selection (e.g. when the inversion captures a locally adaptive haplotype and then ‘hitchhikes’ with it) or via direct positive selection (e.g. when a beneficial mutation arises fortuitously at the breakpoints). After their establishment, adaptive inversions often seem to be maintained by balancing selection in a polymorphic state, that is, they are neither lost nor do they become fixed at 100% frequency. Such balancing selection acting on inversion polymorphisms might involve overdominance, associative overdominance, negative frequency‐dependent selection, spatially and/or temporally varying selection.

Key Concepts

Chromosomal inversions are structural mutations that reverse the segment of a chromosome.

In heterozygous state, inversions suppress recombination between inverted and noninverted (standard arrangement) chromosomes.

Most inversions are deleterious or neutral; rarely they are beneficial.

Positive selection can establish an initially rare inversion in a population despite drift.

If the inversion happens to capture a locally adapted haplotype, it can ‘hitchhike’ with it and increase in frequency; it has an advantage because it protects the haplotype from recombination and maladaptive gene flow.

Another possibility is that the inversion breakpoints directly and fortuitously generate an adaptive mutation.

Once established, balancing selection can maintain the inversion polymorphism; this might happen due to heterozygote advantage, frequency‐dependent selection, spatially and/or temporally varying selection.
Botulinum Neurotoxins
Authors: Marco Pirazzini , Rossetto Ornella
Published: September 2020

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are Janus‐faced biological agents. They are the most poisonous substances known and the causative agents of botulism, a deadly neuroparalytic syndrome of animals and humans. Owing to their potency, BoNTs have the potential to be used as biological weapons. At the same time, they are effective therapeutics for a variety of human neurological disorders and aesthetic medicine. In addition, the understanding of BoNT mechanism of action has provided great contributions to the study of the general principles of neuronal physiology. BoNTs were discovered more than a century ago, but they are still actively studied, both to identify effective countermeasures and mostly to expand the landscape of their clinical use. BoNT nomenclature has been recently revised owing to the identification of several BoNT isoforms via next‐generation sequencing techniques. The reason behind such variability among BoNTs remains elusive.

Key Concepts

Botulinum neurotoxins are exotoxins produced by neurotoxigenic bacterial strains of the genusClostridium.

Botulinum neurotoxins are metalloprotease causing botulism, a deadly neuroparalytic syndrome affecting vertebrates.

Botulinum neurotoxins are a large and growing family of variants called serotypes, subtypes or mosaics according to their immunological and amino acid composition.

In spite of their variability, botulinum neurotoxins have a highly conserved structure and a common mechanism of action.

Botulinum neurotoxins block neurotransmitter release at peripheral nerve terminals causing flaccid paralysis and autonomic dysfunctions.

Botulinum neurotoxins are Janus‐faced biological agents, being potential bioweapons and very effective therapeutics at the same time.

Botulinum neurotoxins type A1 and B1 are used in human therapy to attenuate hyperactive peripheral nerve terminals.

Botulinum neurotoxin type A1 is a best seller treatment in aesthetic medicine.
Translational Regulation by Upstream Open Reading Frames and Its Relevance to Human Genetic Disease
Authors: Fernandes Rafael , Romão Luísa
Published: September 2020

Upstream open reading frames (uORFs) arecis‐acting elements, located before or overlapped with the main coding ORF (mORF), that regulate cap‐dependent translation efficiency in a transcript‐specific manner. More than half of the human transcripts bear at least one uORF. In addition, it has been recently revealed that many of these uORFs initiate at non‐AUG codons, which significantly increases the complexity and diversity of the human translatome. These regulons are considered repressors of downstream translation but, in some biological contexts, they induce mORF expression. There are several the mechanisms by which AUG and non‐AUG uORFs regulate gene expression, allowing the cell to control transcript‐specific translation according to its needs. Also, we describe several examples of uORF genetic variants associated with human genetic diseases. Studying these cases and understanding the resultant abnormal mechanisms of uORF‐mediated translational control is of extreme importance for the development of new therapeutic strategies.

Key Concepts

Upstream open reading frames (uORFs) arecis‐acting translational regulatory elements present within the 5′ leader sequence of mRNAs.

uORFs can regulate gene expression by repressing or promoting translation of the downstream main ORF (mORF), according to the cellular environment.

The number of uORFs, the intercistronic distance, the overlap with the mORF and the context of the initiation codon are the uORF‐related structural features that most influence their translational regulatory capacity.

uORF‐mediated repression of mORF translation is usually achieved by ribosome dissociation, ribosome stalling, induction of nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay (NMD) or production of inhibitory peptides.

uORF‐mediated induction of mORF translation is usually achieved by ribosome bypass or translation reinitiation.

uORFs initiated by non‐AUG codons are more frequent than previously appreciated, having important biological functions.

uORF‐altering polymorphisms and mutations, which create, disrupt or change a uORF, can cause human genetic diseases.

Studying and understanding the uORF‐mediated mechanisms of gene expression regulation may provide knowledge to develop novel therapies for several human diseases.
Hallucinogenic Drugs
Authors: Bonson Katherine R
Published: September 2020

Hallucinogens constitute one of the oldest classes of drugs used by humanity, often in the context of spiritual practices. Classic hallucinogens such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin,
N
,
N
‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT), mescaline and 2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐methylamphetamine (DOM) produce complex psychological and physical effects, including perceptual changes, cognitive shifts in reality, and emotional alterations. These drugs primarily act on serotonin systems through 5‐hydroxytryptamine 2A (5HT
2A
) receptors, with additional activity through 5HT
1A
receptors, as well as dopamine and glutamate systems. Investigations into the neurochemical and behavioural effects of this class of drugs have provided important insights into pharmacology and psychiatric conditions. Given their popularity as recreational drugs, investigation of their actions and effects continues to be an important endeavour. In the past 30 years, there has been a renewed interest in conducting clinical studies with these drugs in healthy individuals and in patients with psychiatric conditions in laboratories around the world.

Key Concepts

Hallucinogens have been used for thousands of years by various societies, often in conjunction with spiritual practices.

In the present day, hallucinogens remain highly popular as recreational drugs.

The chemical structure of hallucinogens consists of tryptamines (LSD and psilocybin) and phenethylamines (mescaline and DOM).

The potency of hallucinogens is directly correlated to their ability to act as agonists at the serotonin receptor subtype, 5‐HT
2A
.

Drugs that act at sites other than 5‐HT
2A
receptors can also produce hallucinogen‐like effects (e.g. ketamine, MDMA, salvinorin A, nitrous oxide, GHB).

The signature effects of hallucinogens include perceptual changes, alterations in effect and shifts in cognitive ability.

Negative responses associated with hallucinogens include ‘bad trips’ (severe anxiety and a disconnection with reality) as well as rare instances of ‘flashbacks’ and psychotic breaks.

Human research with hallucinogens has recently been revitalised, augmenting the scientific advances made previously with animal and human studies.
Archaeal Cells
Authors: Chadha Yagya , Seydel Charlotte , Klingl Andreas
Published: September 2020

At a first glance, Archaea are quite similar to Bacteria on a structural level, and for a long time they were named ‘Archaebacteria’. They can form cocci, rods, spirals or irregular shaped cells and are equally sized as Bacteria. Together they are referred to as ‘Prokaryotes’ because neither Archaea nor Bacteria possess a nucleus. Although this term indeed might be helpful in habitual language use, it does not refer to a phylogenetic group. In fact, transcription and translation machineries of Archaea have much more in common with eukaryotic cells than with Bacteria. In addition, there are many features that remain characteristic for Archaea, given by the fact that many representatives live and thrive under extreme environmental conditions.

Key Concepts

By application of respective PCR techniques, Archaea can be found in almost every habitat and sometimes are even more abundant than bacteria.

Archaea show special adaptations to their sometimes extreme environments, like caldarchaeols, which are more stable at high temperatures.

Like Bacteria, Archaea are also surrounded by a lipid bilayer, but in the latter case, the lipid moiety consists of C5‐isoprenoid units that are coupled to glycerol via ether bonds at (sn)‐2,3 positions of the glycerol.

Cell walls can be as simple as a proteinaceous surface layer or as complicated as in some methanogens with multiple layers, additional sheaths enclosing several cells and even more complex cell wall compounds.

Archaea exhibit a broad variety in cell appendages that are different from bacterial ones in fine structure, composition, biosynthesis and anchorage in the cell.
Diversity of Life
Authors: Minelli Alessandro , Bonato Lucio
Published: September 2020

Diversity of life (also called biological diversity or biodiversity) is the variety of living systems. It may refer to extant organisms but also to their diversity in the past. It is usually meant to encompass multiple levels of biological systems, from the gene level, through the level of populations and species, up to the communities of organisms and the ecosystems to which they belong. Geographic separation and exclusive interspecific relations are two of the major causes explaining the origin of the multiplication of living species in the course of evolutionary history. About 2 million extant species have been described to date and some 17 000–19 000 new entries are added every year to this list. The number of living species existing on Earth is unknown, many current estimates favouring figures in the range of 8–12 millions, others expanding up to one or a few billions, 70–90% of which would be prokaryotes.

Key Concepts

The diversity of biological systems is usually described at different levels, including gene diversity, species diversity and ecosystem diversity.

The history of biological diversity was punctuated by major critical events (mass extinctions) of which the most severe marks the end of the Palaeozoic era.

Marine species represent a much broader phylogenetic diversity than terrestrial species, however, only 15% of all living species described to date inhabit the sea.

Insects represent more than one‐half of the known species on Earth.

Global estimates of existing biodiversity range from 5 to 130 million species, a figure of 8 to 9 millions being currently favoured.
Fluorobenzene, A Low‐Density, Economical, and Bifunctional Hydrocarbon Cosolvent for Practical Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Jiang Zhipeng , Zeng Ziqi , Liang Xinmiao , Yang Li , Hu Wei , Zhang Ce , Han Zhilong , Feng Jiwen , Xie Jia
Published: September 2020

Highly concentrated electrolytes (HCEs) significantly improve the stability of lithium metal anodes, but applications are often impeded by their limitation of density, viscosity, and cost. Here, fluorobenzene (FB), an economical hydrocarbon with low density and low viscosity, is demonstrated as a bifunctional cosolvent to obtain a novel FB diluted highly concentrated electrolyte (FB‐DHCE). First, the addition of FB suppresses the decomposition of dimethoxyethane (DME) on the Li metal by strengthening the interactions of DME and FSI− around Li+. Second, FB efficiently elevates the content of LiF in the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) based on its electrochemical reduction reaction. The unique solvation and interfacial chemistry of FB‐DHCE enable dendrite‐free deposition of lithium with high Coulombic efficiency (up to 99.3%) and prolong cycling life (over 500 cycles at 1 mA cm−2). The performance of FB‐DHCE is further demonstrated in full cells under practical conditions, including ambient to low temperature (–20 °C), high areal capacity (7.6 mAh cm−2), high current density (3 mA cm−2), limited excess Li (20 µm Li), and lean electrolyte (3 g Ah−1). Employing FB as a cosolvent not only opens a novel pathway to stabilize Li metal anodes, but also could greatly advance the development of Li metal batteries.
Near‐Infrared Fluorescence/Photoacoustic Agent with an Intensifying Optical Performance for Imaging‐Guided Effective Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Ye Fengying , Huang Weijing , Li Chonglu , Li Guangjin , Yang Wen‐Chao , Liu Sheng Hua , Yin Jun , Sun Yao , Yang Guang‐Fu
Published: September 2020

Near‐infrared fluorescent agents generally exhibit typical push‐pull electron characteristics, and their optical behaviors are closely related to their molecular structures. Benzobisthiadiazole moiety as a classic electron acceptor has been typically used to design the Donor‐Acceptor‐Donor (D‐A‐D) type of fluorescent/photoacoustic agents with emission in the second near‐infrared window. In this work, two strategies are examined to intensify their absorption/fluorescence and fluorescence/photoacoustic imaging performance: 1) the conjugated bridges are amplified by installing two electron‐rich thiophenes and one styrene on two sides of the benzobisthiadiazole core and 2) the N,N‐dimethylamino group is employed to replace the traditional diphenylamine to strengthen the electron donor. This agent shows the maximum absorption and fluorescence emission at 942 and 1302 nm, respectively. Its superior in vitro and vivo data confirms that the nanoparticles of this compound complexed with 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine‐N‐[methoxy(polyethyleneglycol)] (DSPE‐PEG) can not only perform real‐time and high‐contrast noninvasive near‐infrared fluorescence/photoacoustic imaging of tumors (980 nm laser irradiation) but also effectively ablate the tumor cells by photothermal therapy implementing the dual‐modality imaging method. In particular, its longer wavelength absorption and emission successfully improves the fluorescence/photoacoustic imaging performance. These observations highlight its potential to be used as a promising therapeutic platform for cancer.
Engineered Microneedle Patches for Controlled Release of Active Compounds: Recent Advances in Release Profile Tuning
Authors: Jamaledin Rezvan , Makvandi Pooyan , Yiu Cynthia K. Y. , Agarwal Tarun , Vecchione Raffaele , Sun Wujin , Maiti Tapas Kumar , Tay Franklin R. , Netti Paolo Antonio
Published: September 2020

Transdermal microneedle patches have attracted significant attention in the medical arena over the last decade as alternatives to traditional drug delivery methods. Microneedle patches are capable of delivering their payloads using burst‐ and sustained‐release mechanisms, or in response to internal/external triggers, to optimize their therapeutic potency. Herein, drug release mechanisms and profiles are reviewed, along with the impact of the cargo release on cytotoxicity and delivery efficacy. The potential applications of microneedles in transdermal treatment, from prophylaxis to therapeutics, are also highlighted.
Real‐time Monitoring Reveals Dissolution/Redeposition Mechanism in Copper Nanocatalysts during the Initial Stages of the CO2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Vavra Jan , Shen Tzu‐Hsien , Stoian Dragos , Tileli Vasiliki , Buonsanti Raffaella
Published: September 2020

Size, morphology, and surface sites of electrocatalysts have a major impact on their performance. Understanding how, when, and why these parameters change under operating conditions is of importance for designing stable, active, and selective catalysts. Herein, we study the reconstruction of a Cu‐based nanocatalysts during the startup phase of the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction by combining results from electrochemical in situ transmission electron microscopy with operando X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. We reveal that dissolution followed by redeposition, rather than coalescence, is the mechanism responsible for the size increase and morphology change of the electrocatalyst. Furthermore, we point out the key role played by the formation of copper oxides in the process. Understanding of the underlying processes opens a pathway to rational design of Cu electro (re)deposited catalysts and to stability improvement for catalysts fabricated by other methods.
A Homoleptic Alkynyl‐Ligated [Au13Ag16L24]3− Cluster as a Catalytically Active Eight‐Electron Superatom
Authors: Qin Zhaoxian , Sharma Sachil , Wan Chong‐qing , Malola Sami , Xu Wen‐wu , Häkkinen Hannu , Li Gao
Published: September 2020

A new alkynylated cluster [Au13Ag16(C10H6NO)24]3− is prepared by a NaBH4 mediated reduction method. The AuAg clusters are confirmed by sophisticated characterization techniques. It has a unique “Aucenter@Ag12@Au12Ag4” metal framework which is protected by 24 atypical alkyne ligands L (L=C10H6NO). The ligands construct a unique type of motif L‐(Ag)‐Au‐(Ag)‐L at the cluster interface, where the alkyne (C≡C) group of each L was linked by sharing an Au atom through the σ bonds and each C≡C group was discretely connected to a chemically different Ag atom (Agicosahedral/Agcap) through π bonds. The electronic and optical properties of [Au13Ag16L24]3− were studied. DFT characterized the cluster as a clear 8‐electron superatom, and peaks in the optical absorption spectrum were interpreted in terms of the P and D superatom states. The supported Au13Ag16L24/CeO2 catalyst exhibited high catalytic activity and selectivity towards the A3‐coupling reaction involving benzaldehyde, diethylamine, and phenylacetylene.
Evaluating the cell structure‐impact damping relation of cross‐linked polyethylene foams by falling weight impact tests
Authors: Tomin Márton , Kmetty Ákos
Published: September 2020

This study examines the effect of foam thickness on impact damping properties of closed‐cell cross‐linked polyethylene foams of different densities. Compression tests and falling weight impact tests were performed to detect the most important mechanisms, which affect the mechanical properties of the foams. The results showed that impact damping properties are significantly influenced by foam thickness, while energy‐absorbing capability primarily depends on foam density. The average cell diameter was determined with a scanning electron microscope, which proved that the mechanical properties are mostly influenced by cell structure because higher density foams have smaller cells and thicker cell walls. Other important conclusion is that a foam thickness limit can be determined for a given load level to avoid excessive compaction of the cells and maximize the shock absorption of the foam.
A novel, rapid technique for clearing leaf tissues
Authors: García‐Gutiérrez Emmanuel , Ortega‐Escalona Fernando , Angeles Guillermo
Published: September 2020

Premise

Clearing leaves is a highly useful practice for many taxonomic, ecological, physiological, and eco‐physiological aspects of research. Using traditional methods, the procedure for clearing a leaf (referred to as diaphanization) can take several days or even weeks. In our laboratory we developed a technique, originally used for dissociating wood, that yields excellent epidermal and leaf venation preparations clearly showing the details of epidermal cells, hydathodes, trichomes, leaf margins, and leaf venation, in a maximum of three days.

Methods and Results

A solution originally used to macerate wood (Franklin’s solution) was used to accelerate the process of clearing leaves. Using this approach, it is possible to obtain clear images of the leaf adaxial and abaxial epidermal surfaces and leaf venation. Our technique works with both fragile and sturdy leaves, as well as with thin roots and stems. A few examples are presented.

Conclusions

Franklin’s solution is very simple to prepare and easy to manipulate. This new technique has the advantage of separating the leaf epidermal layers and venations, which can then be clearly observed.
Molecular basis and therapeutic potential of myostatin on bone formation and metabolism in orthopedic disease
Authors: Cui Yinxing , Yi Qian , Sun Weichao , Huang Dixi , Zhang Hui , Duan Li , Shang Hongxi , Wang Daping , Xiong Jianyi
Published: September 2020

Myostatin, a member of the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) superfamily, is a key autocrine/paracrine inhibitor of skeletal muscle growth. Recently, researchers have postulated that myostatin is a negative regulator of bone formation and metabolism. Reportedly, myostatin is highly expressed in the fracture area, affecting the endochondral ossification process during the early stages of fracture healing. Furthermore, myostatin is highly expressed in the synovium of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is an effective therapeutic target for interfering with osteoclast formation and joint destruction in RA. Thus, myostatin is a potent anti‐osteogenic factor and a direct modulator of osteoclast differentiation. Evaluation of the molecular pathway revealed that myostatin can activate SMAD and mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathways, inhibiting the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway to synergistically regulate muscle and bone growth and metabolism. In summary, inhibition of myostatin or the myostatin signaling pathway has therapeutic potential in the treatment of orthopedic diseases. This review focused on the effects of myostatin on bone formation and metabolism and discussed the potential therapeutic effects of inhibiting myostatin and its pathways in related orthopedic diseases.
Tumour growth rate of carcinoma of the colon and rectum: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Burke J R , Brown P , Quyn A , Lambie H , Tolan D , Sagar P
Published: September 2020

Background

The growth pattern of colorectal cancer is seldom investigated. This cohort study aimed to explore tumour growth rate in colorectal cancers managed non-surgically or deemed not resectable, and to determine its implication for prognosis.

Methods

Consecutive patients with colonic or rectal adenocarcinoma were identified through the colorectal multidisciplinary team database at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust over a 2-year interval. Patients who received no treatment (surgery, stenting, colonic defunctioning procedures, chemotherapy, radiotherapy) and who underwent CT twice more than 5 weeks apart were included. Multidetector CT/three-dimensional image analysis was performed independently by three experienced radiologists.

Results

Of 804 patients reviewed, 43 colorectal cancers were included in the final analysis. Median age at first CT was 80 (73–85) years and the median interval between scans was 150 (i.q.r. 72–471) days. An increase in T category was demonstrated in 31 of 43 tumours, with a median doubling time of 211 (112–404) days. The median percentage increase in tumour volume was 34·1 (13·3–53·9) per cent per 62 days. The all-cause 3-year mortality rate was 81 per cent (35 of 43) with a median survival time of 1·1 (0·4–2·2) years after the initial diagnostic scan. In those obstructed, the relative risk of death from subsequent perforation was 1·26 (95 per cent c.i. 1·07 to 1·49; P = 0·005).

Conclusion

This study documented a median doubling time of 211 days, with a concerning suggestion of tumour progression, which has implications for the current management standard.
Reflections on the last decade of MOOC research
Authors: Yousef Ahmed Mohamed Fahmy , Sumner Tamara
Published: September 2020

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) represent important pedagogical transformations that aim at unlimited participation and open access to high‐quality educational experiences and resources. MOOCs are quite different from classical distance learning settings in terms of their open‐access features, such as open licensing of course content, and their use of specific infrastructures for communications and learning tools. Studies over the past 2 years (2018, 2019) have examined the multitude of experimental business models for MOOCs. However, MOOCs have also experimented with a wide variety of course content, teaching and learning methods, and assessment strategies. Very few articles have systematically examined these significant changes. To address this gap, we conducted an extensive, qualitative meta‐analyses of over 200 peer‐reviewed articles describing research on MOOCs. This analysis is organized around the following questions: (a) How can we classify existing MOOCs in terms of their support for learners and learning? (b) Which learners are benefiting from MOOCs, and to what degree have MOOCs explored approaches to student‐centered learning? (c) To what degree are MOOCs meeting the needs of different learner audiences? (d) How can MOOC providers and participants communicate effectively to support student learning and engagement? (e) How can student activities be monitored to ensure that assessments of learning are performed effectively? The results of these analyses provide a reflection on the last decade of MOOC research and discussing the main achievements and the major research directions pursued in those years and points toward areas in need of additional research and development.
Restoration of circPSMC3 sensitizes gefitinib‐resistant esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells to gefitinib by regulating miR‐10a‐5p/PTEN axis
Authors: Zhu Han , Du Fang , Cao Chenghua
Published: September 2020

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) has been shown to play an important role in the progression of various cancers. However, the function and underlying mechanisms of circRNAs affecting chemotherapy resistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain largely unknown. In this study, we used gefitinib‐resistant (GR) ESCC cells to investigate the function of circPSMC3 and clarify the underlying mechanism in chemotherapy resistance in ESCC. The results suggested that circPSMC3 expression was downregulated, but miR‐10a‐5p was upregulated in ESCC tissues and cells, as well as in GR ESCC cells. CircPSMC3 overexpression increased the sensitivity of ESCC cells to gefitinib, as indicated by reduced half maximal inhibitory concentration value, increased apoptosis rate and cleaved caspase‐3 protein expression. CircPSMC3 directly interacted with miR‐10a‐5p and inhibited the expression of miR‐10a‐5p. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) was a direct target of miR‐10a‐5p and circPSMC3 promoted PTEN expression via decreasing miR‐10a‐5p level. Moreover, the effect of circPSMC3 on resistance of GR ESCC cells to gefitinib was remarkably reduced by restoration of miR‐10a‐5p and downregultion of PTEN. Taken together, these observations suggested that upregulation of circPSMC3 overcame resistance of GR ESCC cells to gefitinib by modulating the miR‐10a‐5p/PTEN axis, which provide a new therapeutic strategy for overcoming gefitinib resistance in ESCC.
Many signs, one mutation: Early onset of de novo GATA2 deficiency syndrome. A case report
Authors: Blanco Maria Laura , Torrent Montserrat , Bussaglia Elena , Badell Isabel , Nomdedéu Josep F.
Published: September 2020

We report a case with a broad spectrum of symptoms, related to GATA2 deficiency syndrome, which emerged as early as at 6 months of age. They ranged from lymphedema, deafness to myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).
Transoral‐transpharyngeal CO2 laser en bloc excision of voluminous left recurrent laryngeal nerve schwannoma: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Mariani Cinzia , Carta Filippo , De Seta Daniele , Nazhmudinov Ibragim I. , Guseinov Ismail G. , Magomedova Kamilla M. , Chuchueva Natalia , Marrosu Valeria , Puxeddu Roberto
Published: September 2020

Recurrent nerve laryngeal schwannoma is a rare benign tumor that, in expert hands, can be treated by transoral CO2 laser surgery.