bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De Slesvigske Kriges kort
Authors: Svenningensen Stig Roar , Dahl Mette Colding
Published: October 2020

Når vi tænder GPS’en i bilen, benytter vi os i realiteten af et redskab, som er udviklet af det amerikanske militær – i erkendelse af, at man ikke kan føre en krig uden at kende hverken slagmarkens landskab eller sin egen position.Selv med udbredelsen af GPS og digitale kort får Forsvaret stadig, som nogle af de eneste, trykt kort. Kortet er et vigtigt værktøj i militær sammenhæng, og gode og præcise kort – eller mangel på samme – kan betyde forskellen på liv og død.
En flytning i "Vinterens Hjerte"
Authors: Dyrbye Martin
Published: October 2020

Det gik ikke ubemærket hen blandt københavnerne midt i julemåneden 1937, at der i kvarteret omkring Krystalgade og Fiolstræde, dvs. i Latinerkvarterets gader omkring Universitetsbiblioteket, lød en klasken og banken fra bøger, der blev renset og støvet af inden de blev pakket i kasser, for siden at blive kørt med flytteomnibusser med anhængere til Nørre Fælled.
Joseph Goebbels (1897-1945) – en politisk karriere
Authors: Lammers Karl Christian
Published: October 2020

I foråret 2013 arrangerede Det Kongelige Bibliotek en foredragsrække under titlen “Kontroversielle politikere i det 20. og 21. århundrede” og inviterede her en række danske historikere til at præsentere deres forskning. Foredraget om Hitlers propagandaminister Joseph Goebbels bringes her i en lettere revideret udgave.
Et Mozartportræt i Danmark. Løsningen på en gåde II
Authors: Sørensen Inger
Published: October 2020

I den spæde danske guldalder ankom en efterklang af wienerisk geni til København: Mozarts enke, Constanze, havde nogle år efter Wolfgangs død giftet sig med den danske charge d’affaires i Wien, Georg Nikolaus Nissen, og de flyttede sammen til København, hvor en i bogstaveligste forstand malerisk forbindelse blev skabt.
Kronik
Authors: Meile Jakob Kyril
Published: October 2020

KRONIKKEN fortæller om det forgangne kvartal på Det Kongelige Bibliotek: Begivenheder, foredrag, udstillinger, koncerter, erhvervelser m.m. Indhold: Læsesal Vest renoveret; Nordisk teaterkonference i København; Fjernlån & ISO; Sig det med LEGO!; Kattegat-øerne set fra luften; Udstillinger; 1864; Årets Bedste Bogarbejde 2013; Bladtegnermuseet; International Forfatterscene; Salman Rushdie; Jazzfestival i Diamanten; Erhvervelser; BogForum 2014;
Carl Nielsens Sange
Authors: Krabbe Niels
Published: October 2020

Til brug for Carl Nielsen Året 2015 – i anledning af 150-året for komponistens fødsel, som fejres både i Danmark og i udlandet ved en lang række begivenheder som koncerter, symposier, pressefremstød og udgivelser – har Det Kongelige Bibliotek i samarbejde med pladeselskabet Dacapo produceret og udgivet cd’en The Unknown Carl Nielsen. Danish Songs in English i et usædvanligt stort oplag til brug for promoveringen og markedsføringen af Carl Nielsen i udlandet ved bl.a. disse begivenheder.

Titlen hentyder til, at som sangkomponist er Carl Nielsen i sagens natur nok relativt ukendt uden for Danmarks grænser, idet hans melodier og korsatser til danske digteres sange og salmer over 400 år jo altovervejende er skrevet til danske tekster, der hidtil kun sporadisk er oversat til engelsk.

I Carl Nielsen Udgaven, Serie III, bind 7, der udkom i 2009, findes imidlertid en total oversættelse til engelsk af alle de sang- og salmetekster, 296 i alt, som Carl Nielsen skrev sine melodier til – altså den hidtil mest omfattende sangantologi af danske sange på engelsk – oversat og gendigtet af Holger Scheibel og Stuart Henney. Af disse har professor Niels Krabbe udvalgt 26 og skrevet en indføring, “Nielsen and the Danish Singing Tradition”, som bringes her i dansk oversættelse.
Kronik
Authors: Meile Jakob Kyril
Published: October 2020

KRONIKKEN fortæller om det forgangne kvartal på Det Kongelige Bibliotek: Begivenheder, foredrag, udstillinger, koncerter, erhvervelser m.m.

Indhold: Årets historiske bog: Morten Møller (f. 1978) modtog prisen Årets historiske Bog for sin bog Ellen & Adam; EU-projektet ”Collaboration to Clarify the Costs of Curation”; “Danmark set fra Luften – før Google”; Seminarer; Seminarer; De unge og de tunge; International Forfatterscene; Fernisering; Koncerter; Udstillinger.
Verden rundt uden hat
Authors: Thrane Lotte
Published: October 2020

I 1920 sender Berlingske Tidende den kun 20-årige journalistspire Estrid Ott ud på jordomrejse. Avisen mener, at “der må være håb et sted”, efter Første Verdenskrig har henlagt Europa i mørke. Ott skulle vise sig at udfordre både måden at tænke feminisme og kønsroller på.
H.O. Lange-prisen til Charlotte Appel & Ning de Coninck-Smith. Motiveringstale ved tildelingen
Authors: Egelund Niels
Published: October 2020

H.O. Lange-prisen for 2015 uddeltes den 24. februar i år og gik til professor mso, dr.phil. Ning de Coninck-Smith & lektor, dr.phil. Charlotte Appel for værket Dansk skolehistorie. Hverdag, vilkår og visioner, bd. 1-5.
En korrektion. Om Carit Etlars ”Gjøngehøvdingen”
Authors: Dyrbye Martin
Published: October 2020

Et eksempel på konsekvenserne, når en kildes proveniens fejlfortolkes og dermed skaber grobund for mytedannelse – om Carit Etlars ”Gjøngehøvdingen”
Med på noderne! Danske nodeperiodika 1795-1932
Authors: Strands Nikolaj
Published: October 2020

Hvordan holdt man sig orienteret om tidens populære toner før der fandtes playlister, MTV og radio? Jo, man abonnerede da på dem i nodeform! Før radioen blev opfundet, var klaveret almindeligvis omdrejningspunktet for musiklivet i hjemmene, og musikforlagenes nodeudgivelser var den vigtigste måde, musik blev cirkuleret på. Et særligt produkt fra musikforlagene – som var uhyre udbredt i det 19. århundrede, men siden er gået i glemmebogen – var noder udgivet i tidsskriftsform; en vare, som alle større musikforlag havde på hylden i 1800-tallet.
CRINOIDEOS DEL GÉNERO Bactrocrinites DEL DEVÓNICO INFERIOR Y MEDIO DE LA CORDILLERA CANTÁBRICA (NO DE ESPAÑA)
Authors: Pidal Raimundo
Published: October 2020

Se describen nuevas formas de Bactrocrinites de ambas vertientes de la Cordillera Cantábrica. En la vertiente asturiana: Bactrocrinites longibrachiatus n. sp., Bactrocrinites aff. fusiformis y Bactrocrinites sp., proceden respectivamente de la Punta del Aguión, cerca de Luanco, Formación Aguión (Emsiense superior), de la Ensenada de Moniello, Luanco, base de la Formación Moniello (Emsiense superior) y de Arbeyales, Somiedo, techo de la Formación Santa Lucía (Eifeliense inferior). En la leonesa: Bactrocrinites breimeri n. sp., Bactrocrinites truyolsi n. sp., un segundo ejemplar de Bactrocrinites aff. fusiformis y ? Bactrocrinites sp.; los dos primeros proceden de Huergas de Gordón, Pola de Gordón, en la Formación Portilla (Givetiense) y Formación Santa Lucía (Eifeliense inferior), respectivamente, el tercero, de Valporquero, Valle de Torío, Grupo La Vid (Emsiense superior) y el último de Colle, también en el Grupo La Vid (Emsiense superior). Todas las especies recogidas y descritas en el presente trabajo son relativamente pequeñas y esbeltas y muestran evidentes afinidades con la especie tipo fusiformis
SUBFAMILIA TEICHOSTROPHIINAE HARPER & BOUCOT, 1978c (STROPHOMENOIDEA, STROPHODONTIDAE) DEL DEVÓNICO INFERIOR (EMSIENSE SUPERIOR) DE LA CORDILLERA CANTÁBRICA (N DE ESPAÑA)
Authors: García-Alcalde Jenaro L
Published: October 2020

Se discute la autonomía y relaciones de la Subfamilia Teichostrophiinae, como rama de la Familia Strophodontidae, y se propone la división del género Teichostrophia, que da nombre al taxón, en dos subgéneros Teichostrophia (Teichostrophia), con especie-tipo Strophomena lepis y T. (Gozoniella) n. sg., con especie-tipo T. (G.) barroisi n. sp. El nuevo subgénero es propio del Emsiense superior del área astur-leonesa de la Cordillera Cantábrica, donde está representado, además de por la especie-tipo, por T. (G.) naranjoana y por T. (G.) tricornuta. Varias especies de los Pirineos (España, Francia), La Saoura (Argelia), Zemmour (Mauritania), Macizo Armoricano (Francia) y Kellerwald (Alemania), habitualmente asignadas a Teichostrophia lepis, podrían pertenecer también al nuevo subgénero
TAXONOMÍA DE LOS GASTERÓPODOS TERRESTRES DEL CUATERNARIO DE ARGENTINA
Authors: Miquel Sergio Eduardo , Aguirre Marina Laura
Published: October 2020

Se sintetiza el conocimiento actualizado sobre 33 especies y subespecies de gasterópodos estilomatóforos de los géneros Gastrocopta, Succinea, Radiodiscus, Retidiscus, Rotadiscus, Cecilioides, Austroborus, Megalobulimus, Bulimulus, Discoleus, Naesiotus, Plagiodontes, Spixia, Scolodonta, Miradiscops y Epiphragmophora. Aporta los registros editados e inéditos de la malacofauna terrestre, y la revisión de las colecciones de las instituciones nacionales más importantes. Cerca del 60% de las especies registradas pertenecen a la familia Orthalicidae (=Bulimulidae), Strophocheilidae incluye el 15%, en tanto que familias como Xanthonychidae, Charopidae y Scolodontidae aportan, cada una, cerca del 10% de las especies. Las principales contribuciones en la materia fueron publicadas por Joaquín Frenguelli, responsable de haber formado la colección más importante en la materia, constituida por más de un centenar de lotes, depositada en el Museo de La Plata (Departamento Paleontología Invertebrados). La síntesis sobre distribución y requerimientos ecológicos de los taxones identificados aporta la fuente de información básica necesaria para efectuar futuras interpretaciones paleoambientales y paleoclimáticas, complementarias de trabajos basados en mamíferos y/o polen y fitolitos, así como para seleccionar taxones significativos para estudios geocronológicos e isotópicos sobre conchas contenidas en las unidades estratigráficas del Neógeno conocidas tradicionalmentes como unidades cronoestratigráficas (Platense, Cordobense, Bonaerense, Ensenadense de la literatura local)
RECESIÓN. Ichnology: organism-substrate interactions in space and time
Authors: Muñiz Guinea Fernando
Published: October 2020

Los autores, Luis Buatois y Gabriela Mángano, son dos de los más destacados y referentes especialistas en icnología del panorama actual. Se doctoran en la Universidad de Buenos Aires para posteriormente realizar un posdoctorado en la Universidad de Kansas. A posteriori, tras pasar unos años en el Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) de Argentina se desplazan a Canadá donde continúan desarrollando su actividad docente e investigadora en la Universidad de Saskatchewan. La distribución temática del libro, de 358 páginas y 222 figuras, se realiza en tres grandes partes (I) Herramientas conceptuales y Métodos (Conceptual tools and methods), (II) Tendencias espaciales (Spatial trends) y (III). Una Cuestión de Tiempo (A matter of time), cuyo contenido se divide en tres partes.
En este libro se hace un tratamiento exhaustivo, meticuloso, actualizado y muy bien documentado de las diferentes ideas y controversias en icnología, desde los conceptos básicos hasta cuestiones muy novedosas y todavía en desarrollo. Se debe considerar un libro de texto que merece la pena utilizar tanto en cursos de icnología, como referencia para paleontólogos y sedimentólogos que quieran saber más sobre esta disciplina por tratar todos los temas y hacerlo de manera ordenada; así como una obra de consulta obligada para icnólogos.
Changes in the geographical distribution of Microtus (Iberomys) cabrerae (Thomas, 1906) from the Late Pleistocene to the Holocene
Authors: López-García Juan Manuel , Cuenca-Bescós Gloria
Published: October 2020

Cabrera’s vole, Microtus (Iberomys) cabrerae, is a currently endemic species restricted to Spain and Portugal. Its present day distribution is fragmentary, but in the past it was broadly distributed across the Iberian Peninsula, with the exception of the northern part of the Peninsula. Various hypotheses have been expounded to explain the retraction of the species since the beginning of the Holocene: 1) the climate changes produced in the Bronze Age; 2) the human impact on the restricted habitat of the species; and 3) its direct competition with other species with similar environmental requirements, such as the southern water vole (Arvicola sapidus), an Iberian endemism. In this paper, we discuss these hypotheses regarding the distribution of the species fossil record in the Late Pleistocene and beginning of the Holocene, as well as its current distribution. The most plausible hypothesis for its retraction is human impact, which has destroyed the habitat of the species with the development of agriculture and road infrastructures and the increasing human population
Lift devices in the flight of Archaeopteryx
Authors: Meseguer José , Chiappe Luis M , Sanz José L , Ortega Francisco , Sanz-Andrés Ángel , Pérez-Grande Isabel , Franchini Sebastián
Published: October 2020

Archaeopteryx has played a central role in the debates on the origins of avian (and dinosaurian) flight, even though as a flier it probably represents a relatively late stage in the beginnings of flight. We report on aerodynamic tests using a life-sized model of Archaeopteryx performing in a low turbulence wind tunnel. Our results indicate that tail deflection significantly decreased take-off velocity and power consumption, and that the first manual digit could have functioned as the structural precursor of the alula. Such results demonstrate that Archaeopteryx had already evolved high-lift devices, which are functional analogues of those present in today’s birds
The variety of attitudes among palaeontologists faced with evolution (1840-1870)
Authors: Godinot Marc
Published: October 2020

A variety of attitudes existed among paleontologists faced with evolution, or transformism, in 1840-1870. D’Orbigny, forcefully contributing to stratigraphy, was a catastrophist mand a natural creationist. Brongniart, also catastrophist, had a more religious blend of creationism. D’Omalius d’Halloy and Gérard were explicitely transformists before Darwin, the former being religious and the latter not. Bronn and d’Archiac had a continuous view of the history of life, yet were not transformists, for scientific reasons. Gaudry became an enthusiastic evolutionist and was religious. Their different philosophico-religious opinions reveal that, in their varied attitudes toward transformism, scientific considerations were far more important than anything else; philosophical considerations played a role, and religious choices had little influence
TRIBUTE TO NIEVES LÓPEZ MARTÍNEZ
Authors: Álvarez Sierra María Ángeles , Astibia Ayerra Humberto , Hernández Fernández Manuel , Moyà Solà Salvador
Published: October 2020

Nieves was born in Burgos on February 5th, 1949 and passed away, much too soon, on December 15th, 2010. She studied at Madrid’s Complutense University (UCM) from which she graduated with a degree in Biological Science in 1970 and there she met Professor Emiliano Aguirre. When he suggested starting a research project on lagomorphs (pikas, rabbits and hares) from the Spanish fossil record, Nieves threw herself into the job with her characteristic energy and enthusiasm.
At a time (1971-1973) when very few scientists travelled abroad, Nieves obtained a Cooperation Grant from the French Government to do her PhD Thesis under the supervision of Dr. Thaler at Montpellier University.
Her university teaching career began in 1978 as an Interim Associate Teacher at Madrid’s Autónoma University (UAM). She was an excellent teacher, and the driving force of her professional life was to a great degree her relationship with her students. She was innovative in her teaching, making use of the new technologies (virtual campus, web pages, blogs, etc.) to gain students’ attention and interest.
She excelled in her research and was one of the pioneers in directing research projects of the National Plan; she directed numerous field campaigns and excavations in the continental basins of the Iberian Peninsula and participated in the stimulating and arduous campaigns in the Republic of Chad together with her French colleagues under the direction of Dr. Brunet (Poitiers University).
Martin and Luther: The Reformer and his Name-Saint
Authors: WALSH MARTIN W.
Published: October 2020

Although born on the Vigil of the Feast of Saint Martin of Tours and given that saint's name at baptism, Luther had very little truck with his name-saint, whether during his early career as monk and theologian or in his years as the vanguard of the Reformation. Indeed, it would seem he honored Saint George more than Saint Martin. The power of Martin's name and of the iconic image of his sharing his mantle with a beggar, however, would not be ignored by Luther's followers or by his opponents. This paper examines the intersection of the image of Saint Martin with the career of the great Reformer focusing on such events as the Leipzig Debate of 1519 and examples from the polemical literature, such as Thomas Murner's The Great Lutheran Fool. Moreover, in the development of anecdotal “Luther lore” after his death we find a general rapprochement of Luther commemorations with the traditional German celebration of a carnivalesque Martinmas. If Luther largely ignored his name-saint, present day Lutheranism embraces the Bishop of Tours, as evidenced by its numerous church dedications and images of Saint Martin's Charity.
Interfacing TTL and CMOS Logic Levels in the Laboratory
Authors: DOBBS HOWARD A. , POLIK WILLIAM F.
Published: October 2020

Interconnectivity of electrical components, such as triggers and detectors, is intrinsic to operating time-sensitive experiments. As labs become more digitized, equipment integration and compatibility become larger factors in experimental setups. Complications can arise when instruments with different signal levels, or logic levels, are integrated because each instrument requires its own particular input signal, with a specific threshold voltage, to function. When incorrect logic levels are used or the delays in conversion are too long, these instruments are not properly triggered and the experiment becomes inoperable. To perform multi-component, time-sensitive experiments, a logic-level converter with minimal time delays is necessary. Commercial solutions, however, are not viable when the nature of the experiment is highly time-sensitive, such as in laser spectroscopy, because the delay on the signal conversion is several hundred nanoseconds and would result in missed events. In this paper, three different logic-level converter circuits are presented for conversion between the TTL and CMOS logic levels, the most commonly used logic levels in experimental applications, based on the concept of an emitter follower design that only produces a delay in the tens of nanoseconds. Circuits were developed for conversion from CMOS to TTL, from TTL to CMOS, and a TTL buffer circuit. These circuits allow for inter-conversion between the two most common logic families, TTL and CMOS, as well as buffering weak signals, to offer a simple, low-cost solution to synchronization in time-sensitive experimental setups.
Ever Smaller
Authors: Ereditato Antonio
Published: October 2020

Ideas, theories, experiments, and unanswered questions in particle physics, explained (with anecdotes) for the general reader.

The elementary particles of matter hold the secrets of Nature together with the fundamental forces. In Ever Smaller, neutrino physicist Antonio Ereditato describes the amazing discoveries of the “particle revolution,” explaining ideas, theories, experiments, and unanswered questions in particle physics in a way that is accessible (and enjoyable) for the general reader. Ereditato shows us that physics is not the exclusive territory of scientists in white lab coats exclaiming “Eureka” but that its revelations can be appreciated by any reader curious about the mysteries of the universe.

Ereditato's overview takes us through a century of particle physics, from the discovery of the components of the atom through an endless procession of subatomic particles—the pion, the muon, the quarks, the bosons, and the mysterious, ubiquitous neutrino (Ereditato's chosen specialty)—interweaving the history of these discoveries with basic explanations of the physics itself as well as the technology behind the discoveries. He considers the particle physicist's impulse to pursue the “ever smaller”—to divide matter into ever more minuscule parts, until reaching the elementary constituents of the universe; explains how Nature likes symmetries; describes the workings of particle accelerators and detectors; demonstrates how to distinguish between three identical quarks; and warns that the ugliest experimental data are more important than the most beautiful theory. With Ever Smaller, Ereditato invites readers to join him in appreciating the beauty of the microcosm.
Insect pollination is important in a smallholder bean farming system
Authors: Elisante Filemon , Ndakidemi Patrick , Arnold Sarah E.J. , Belmain Steven R. , Gurr Geoff M. , Darbyshire Iain , Xie Gang , Stevenson Philip C.
Published: October 2020

Background

Many crops are dependent on pollination by insects. Habitat management in agricultural landscapes can support pollinator services and even augment crop production. Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important legume for the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in many low-income countries, particularly so in East Africa. While this crop is autogamous, it is frequently visited by pollinating insects that could improve yields. However, the value of pollination services to common beans (Kariasii) yield is not known.

Methods

We carried out pollinator-exclusion experiments to determine the contribution of insect pollinators to bean yields. We also carried out a fluorescent-dye experiment to evaluate the role of field margins as refuge for flower-visitors.

Results

Significantly higher yields, based on pods per plant and seeds per pod, were recorded from open-pollinated and hand-pollinated flowers compared to plants from which pollinators had been excluded indicating that flower visitors contribute significantly to bean yields. Similarly, open and hand-pollinated plants recorded the highest mean seed weight. Extrapolation of yield data to field scale indicated a potential increase per hectare from 681 kg in self-pollinated beans to 1,478 kg in open-pollinated beans indicating that flower visitors contributed significantly to crop yield of beans. Our marking study indicated that flower-visiting insects including bees, flies and lepidopterans moved from the field margin flowers into the bean crop. Overall, these results show that insect pollinators are important for optimising bean yields and an important food security consideration on smallholder farms. Field margin vegetation also provides habitat for flower-visiting insects that pollinate beans. Hence, non-crop habitats merit further research focusing on establishing which field margin species are most important and their capacity to support other ecosystem services such as natural pest regulation or even pests.
Construction and analysis of macrophage infiltration related circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Yuhan , Li Yalin , Zheng Guanglei , Zhou Peitao
Published: October 2020

Background

Macrophage play a crucial role in regulating tumor progression. This study intended to investigate the circular RNA (circRNA) regulatory network associated with macrophage infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The immune cell fractions of HCC from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium were calculated by Estimation of the Proportion of Immune and Cancer cells algorithm. The differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs), microRNAs (DEmiRNAs) and circRNAs (DEcircRNAs) were identified from HCC and adjacent non-tumor cases of TCGA or Gene Expression Omnibus database. The DEmRNAs related to macrophage were selected by weighted gene co-expression network analysis and then utilized to generate the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. A hub circRNA regulatory network was established based on the co-expressed DEmiRNAs and DEmRNAs owning contrary correlation with the clinical characteristics, survival and macrophage infiltration level. A gene signature based on the DEmRNAs in hub network was also generated for further evaluation. The circRNA binding bite for miRNA was detected by luciferase assay.

Results

High macrophage fraction predicted good survival for HCC. A circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network was constructed by 27 macrophage related DEmRNAs, 21 DEmiRNAs, and 15 DEcircRNAs. Among this network, the expression of hsa-miR-139-5p was negatively correlated with CDCA8, KPNA2, PRC1 or TOP2A. Hsa-miR-139-5p low or targeted DEmRNA high expression was associated with low macrophage infiltration, high grade, advanced stage and poor prognosis of HCC. Additionally, the risk score generated by 4-DEmRNA signature could reflect the macrophage infiltration status and function as an independent prognostic factor for HCC. Finally, hsa_circ_0007456 acting on hsa-miR-139-5p related network was viewed as the hub circRNA regulatory network. Taken together, some circRNA regulatory networks may be associated with macrophage infiltration, which provides clues for mechanism study and therapeutic strategies of HCC.
Nutritional and Physico-Chemical Evaluation of Four Different Packed Mango Juice Samples
Authors: N. Patil Pandurang , Quititi Noora K. Al- , Jabri Siham M. Al- , Siyabi Bothaina A. Al-
Published: October 2020

Aim: To analyze mango fruit juice samples for their nutritional value.  Mango fruit is perishable in nature and cannot be stored for long time. It can be made available during off season, by processing in to juices, jams, squashes, nectars, chutney, pickles, toffees and canned mango slices etc.

Study Design: Different physico chemical and elemental parameters were studied for four different made tetra packed mango juice samples available in local market.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Applied Sciences, Chemistry section, University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Muscat, Oman. The study was performed during the January 2016 – July 2016.

Methodology: Different parameters were studied such as pH, conductivity, acidity, ash content, vitamin C, moisture and some mineral contents. Some chemical and instrumental methods were used for analysis.  

Results: pH was found to be in the range of 3.17 – 3.97, conductivity 0.941 – 1.053 MS/cm, sugar found in the range of 13 – 15 0brix, density was found 0.939 – 1.015 g/cm3, water 65.25 – 67%, ash was found to be in the range of 0.059 – 0.099%, total acidity found 0.173 – 0.275 %. Vitamin C was found in the range of 24.8 – 67.3 mg/100 ml, potassium 6.6 – 94, sodium 6 – 69 mg/100 ml, calcium 0 – 105 mg/100 ml and iron was found to be in the range of 1.375 – 2.145 mg/100 ml.

Conclusion: Based upon result obtained found that content of all selected samples were contains labelled nutrients. Sample STMJ was having remarkable good amount of Vitamin C while sample ARMJ found good amount of potassium and iron content.  In acidic perspective sample PMJ was higher acidic and ARMJ sample less acidic in nature.
Determinants of Banks’ Financial Stability in Kenya Commercial Banks
Authors: Koskei Loice
Published: October 2020

Introduction: The collapse of several banks in Kenya followed by a possibility of acquisition of struggling banks led to bank runs in Kenya causing customers to withdraw their deposits from stressed banks and taking them to financially stable banks.

Aim of the Research: The paper investigated the determinants of Bank’s stability as proxied by asset quality in the Kenyan banking sector.

Data Collection: Monthly secondary data spanning from the period January 2015 to December 2019 was collected from central Bank of Kenya and Kenya National Bureau of Statistics.

Methodology: A multiple regression model with the help of SPSS statistical software was employed to address the objective of this study.

Main Results: The multiple regression model results indicated that liquidity ratio; inflation rate and lending rate results presented a negative but statistically significant relationship with banking stability indicating that a decrease in liquidity ratio, inflation rate and lending rates affect banking stability respectively. The results for loan growth and return on equity exhibited a positive but statistically significant relationship with banking stability indicating that an increase in growth of loans and returns on equity diminishes and enhances banking stability in Kenya respectively. Exchange rate results had a positive and statistically insignificant relationship with banking stability implying that exchange rate does not affect banking stability. Return on assets and public debt results indicated a negative and statistically insignificant relationship with banking stability implying that return on assets and a country’s public debt has no effect on banking stability respectively.

Recommendation: Banking financial stability is fundamental in reducing the far-reaching social and economic effect that could occur due to challenges facing the banking industry. The study recommends adoption of policies that minimize the negative effect of microeconomic and macroeconomic factors in the banking industry in Kenya.
Effect of Experimental Variables on the Malting Performance of Nigerian Maize Oba Super 2 Variety
Authors: Agbo A. O. , Odibo F. J. C. , Mbachu A. E.
Published: October 2020

Background: The Nigerian cultivar, Oba Super 2 (OS2) maize is inexpensive but under- utilized owing to poor development of malting technology for brewing.

Aim: To study the effects of experimental variables on the malting performance of Nigerian maize Oba Super 2 variety.

Study Design: Exploratory.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria, between March, 2018 to September, 2019.

Methodology: Certified Oba Super 2 maize variety was obtained from Premier Seed Limited, Zaria. The grain sample was malted at varying steeping (S) period (S30, S36 and S42 hours), different germination (G) period (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 days) and varying kilning (K) temperatures (45, 50 and 55°C) to determine the malting performance. The properties of the un-malted and malted maize were determined using standard methods. Data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) at P < 0.05.

Results: The malting loss (ML) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) at different steeping period, on the fifth day of germination (G5). The cold water extract (CWE) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) on the fourth day of germination (G4) kilned at K50. The values for hot water extract (HWE) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) on the G4 at K45, K55 and K50, respectively, while free alpha amino nitrogen (FAN) values were significantly higher (P < 0.05) on the G4, all kilned at K50. The values for diastatic power (DP) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) on the G5, kilned at K50, while the cold water soluble protein (CWS-P) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) on the G3 kilned at K50.

Conclusion: The results indicated that longer steeping and germination periods as well as moderate kilning temperature contributed maximally in improving the malting properties and high extract yields.
Mechanisms of Phorbol Ester Toxicity, Determined by Molecular Modelling
Authors: Wakandigara A. , Nhamo L. R. M. , Kugara J. , Mushonga P.
Published: October 2020

Phorbol esters are toxic phytochemicals, whose main biological target is protein kinase C. They bind irreversibly to the protein, causing cell damage. Using computer modelling, we have determined, for the first time, features and mechanisms that lead to the toxicity of phorbol esters.

Protein kinase C – delta (PKC-δ) was used as a target protein in computational docking studies with phorbol esters that differ in molecular structure. Binding conformations and stability of ester linkages were analyzed to evaluate their relationship with experimental observations. Results show that an active phorbol ester must exhibit two features: interaction with specific amino acid residues at the binding site and covering the area with a hydrophobic surface. Toxicity of an active phorbol ester is inversely proportional to the intrinsic reactivity of the ester linkage. Phorbol esters bearing free acid chains can directly activate PKC-δ but jatropha phorbol esters are restricted by their acid-moiety ring formations, suggesting similar mechanism of interaction with other phorbol-ester protein targets.
Effect of Hair Straightening Treatment on Porosity and Cysteic Acid Content of Hair
Authors: Sedik Hadeer M. , Gheida Shereen F. , Ibrahim Wafaa M. , Doghaim Noha N.
Published: October 2020

Background: Chemical straightening has increased in popularity because of its durability over thermal straightening and because it gives the hair a natural smooth, shiny look, more styling options for a longer time. The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of damage that occur to the hair after chemical straightener treatment by assessing the change in hair porosity and hair cysteic acid content before and after straightener treatment.

Methods: Forty hair samples were collected from female volunteers; each sample was divided into 2 groups; group A (before straightening) and group B (after straightening). Hair samples were washed then blow dried after that hair straightener was applied for 30 min then flat iron was done, hair samples were washed and blow dried. Each group was subjected to test their porosity and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy examination to assess cysteic acid content.

Results: Hair porosity showed significant increase after straitening. Cysteic acid and disulfide content showed insignificant difference between both groups.

Conclusion: Hair straighteners may cause great damage to hair internal structures. So, proper choice of the material used and assessing the hair characters before straightening is necessary.
Enhancing Long‐Term Thermal Stability of Non‐Fullerene Organic Solar Cells Using Self‐Assembly Amphiphilic Dendritic Block Copolymer Interlayers
Authors: Su Li‐Yun , Huang Hsin‐Hsiang , Lin Yan‐Cheng , Chen Guan‐Lin , Chen Wen‐Chang , Chen Wei , Wang Leeyih , Chueh Chu‐Chen
Published: October 2020

Herein, interfacial engineering is demonstrated to improve the thermal stability of non‐fullerene bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) OPVs to a practical level. An amphiphilic dendritic block copolymer (DBC) is developed through a facile coupling method and employed as the surface modifier of ZnO electron‐transporting layer in inverted OPVs. Besides showing distinct self‐assembly behavior, the synthesized DBC possesses high compatibility with plasmonic gold nanoparticles (NPs) due to the constituent malonamide and ethylene oxide units. The hybrid DBC@AuNPs interlayer is shown to improve device's performance from 14.0% to 15.4% because it enables better energy‐level alignment and improves interfacial compatibility at the ZnO/BHJ interface. Moreover, the DBC@AuNPs interlayer not only improves the interfacial thermal stability at the ZnO/BHJ interface but also endows a more ideal BHJ morphology with an enhanced thermal robustness. The derived device reserves 77% of initial PCE after thermal aging at 65 °C for 3000 h and yields an extended T80 lifetime of >1100 h when stored at a constant thermal condition at 65 °C, outperforming the control device. Finally, the device is evaluated to possess a T80 lifetime of over 1.79 years at room temperature (298 K) when stored in an inert condition, showing great potential for commercialization.
Safety and Efficacy of Omaveloxolone in Friedreich Ataxia (MOXIe Study)
Authors: Lynch David R. , Chin Melanie P. , Delatycki Martin B. , Subramony S. H. , Corti Manuela , Hoyle J. Chad , Boesch Sylvia , Nachbauer Wolfgang , Mariotti Caterina , Mathews Katherine D. , Giunti Paola , Wilmot George , Zesiewicz Theresa , Perlman Susan , Goldsberry Angie , O'Grady Megan , Meyer Colin J.
Published: October 2020

Objective

Friedreich ataxia (FA) is a progressive genetic neurodegenerative disorder with no approved treatment. Omaveloxolone, an Nrf2 activator, improves mitochondrial function, restores redox balance, and reduces inflammation in models of FA. We investigated the safety and efficacy of omaveloxolone in patients with FA.

Methods

We conducted an international, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, registrational phase 2 trial at 11 institutions in the United States, Europe, and Australia (NCT02255435, EudraCT2015‐002762‐23). Eligible patients, 16 to 40 years of age with genetically confirmed FA and baseline modified Friedreich's Ataxia Rating Scale (mFARS) scores between 20 and 80, were randomized 1:1 to placebo or 150mg per day of omaveloxolone. The primary outcome was change from baseline in the mFARS score in those treated with omaveloxolone compared with those on placebo at 48 weeks.

Results

One hundred fifty‐five patients were screened, and 103 were randomly assigned to receive omaveloxolone (n = 51) or placebo (n = 52), with 40 omaveloxolone patients and 42 placebo patients analyzed in the full analysis set. Changes from baseline in mFARS scores in omaveloxolone (−1.55 ± 0.69) and placebo (0.85 ± 0.64) patients showed a difference between treatment groups of –2.40 ± 0.96 (p = 0.014). Transient reversible increases in aminotransferase levels were observed with omaveloxolone without increases in total bilirubin or other signs of liver injury. Headache, nausea, and fatigue were also more common among patients receiving omaveloxolone.

Interpretation

In the MOXIe trial, omaveloxolone significantly improved neurological function compared to placebo and was generally safe and well tolerated. It represents a potential therapeutic agent in FA. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:212–225
A Mixed Methods Exploration of Single Session Family Therapy in a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service in Tasmania, Australia
Authors: John Westwater Jason , Murphy Myfanwy , Handley Christine , McGregor Lucy
Published: October 2020

Single session therapy (SST) is grounded in the belief that clients and families can effect change after one therapeutic encounter, using their own resources, with brief support and assistance from therapists. SST has been found to be an effective intervention for children, young people, and their families presenting with a wide range of difficulties. Research in child and adolescent mental health has shown that over 50% of families find one SST encounter is enough with no need for further specialist input. This study aims to explore family member experiences of SST (undertaken as single session family therapy and termed hereafter SSFT) as an initial intervention in a regional child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS), specifically in terms of worry, confidence, and satisfaction outcomes. An exploratory, mixed methods convergent design was utilised using a combination of open questions and Thurstone scales. All eligible family members were invited to complete questionnaires before and after the SSFT, asking about level of worry, confidence, and overall satisfaction with SSFT. Quantitative and qualitative findings indicated most family members had a positive experience of SSFT, although differences were found between young people, parents, and siblings. Overall, family members’ level of worry decreased, while only parental confidence in managing the presenting issue(s) increased. Over half of the families did not require further contact with CAMHS following the SSFT. Our findings support previous research that SSFT is an effective, family‐inclusive, and well received intervention for a variety of mental health issues facing children and young people. SSFT could be considered a beneficial and well received first response for the majority of CAMHS clients, which prioritises a family‐inclusive approach. Future research could focus on attaining a more in‐depth understanding of individual family member experiences with a view to improving SST delivery.
Titanium (IV) complexes of some tetra‐dentate symmetrical bis‐Schiff bases of 1,6‐hexanediamine: Synthesis, characterization, and in silico prediction of potential inhibitor against coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2)
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Nasir , Amin Md. Shaharier , Rahman Md. Saifur , Khandaker Sonia , Shumi Wahhida , Rahman Md. Atiar , Rahman Sheikh Mahbubur
Published: October 2020

Symmetrical bis‐Schiff bases (LH2) have been synthesized by the condensation of 1,6‐hexanediamine (hn) and carbonyl or dicarbonyl. One of the synthesized Schiff bases has been subjected to the molecular docking for the prediction of their potentiality against coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2). Molecular docking revealed that tested Schiff base possessed high binding affinity with the receptor protein of SARS CoV‐2 compared with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). The ADMET analysis showed that ligand is non‐carcinogenic and less toxic than standard HCQ. Schiff bases acting as dibasic tetra‐dentate ligands formed titanium (IV) complexes of the type [TiL(H2O)2Cl2] or [TiL(H2O)2]Cl2being coordinated through ONNO donor atoms. Ligands and complexes were characterized by the elemental analysis and physicochemical and spectroscopic data including FTIR,1H NMR, mass spectra, UV‐Visible spectra, molar conductance, and magnetic measurement. Optimized structures obtained from quantum chemical calculations supported the formation of complexes. Antibacterial, antifungal, and anti‐oxidant activity assessments have been studied for synthesized ligands and complexes.
Antioxidant Activities of Free and Liposome‐Encapsulated Green tea extracts on canola oil oxidation stability
Authors: Jahanfar Shima , Gahavami Mehrdad , Khosravi‐Darani Kianoush , Jahadi Mahshid
Published: October 2020

In the present study, green tea extract was encapsulated in liposomes based on the Mozafari method (with no organic solvents) and characterized for its physicochemical properties (encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and Z‐potential). Encapsulation efficiency, particles size, and Z‐potential were determined to be 51.34, 419 nm, and ‐57 mV, respectively. Total polyphenol content of the green tea by Folin‐Ciocalteu's phenol reagent was measured as 164.2 mg gallic acid/g extract. Free radical scavenging activities of free and liposomal extracts were 90.6 and 93.4%, respectively, using the DPPH method. Antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract of green tea in free and liposomal forms with concentrations of 200, 600, and 1000 mg L−1 were assessed on oxidative stability of the canola oil at 60 °C for 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, and 32 days. Results were compared to results of synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene at 200 mg L−1. To assess antioxidant activity on canola oil stability, peroxide, thiobarbitoric acid, and anisidine values were assessed as well as the total oxidation value and rancimat test. Results showed that the liposomal green tea extract was more effective than the free extract. Furthermore, a 600 mg L−1 concentration of the green tea extract showed a significant antioxidant activity, compared to other extract concentrations. Increasing storage time and various concentrations of the ethanolic green tea extracts included significant effects on canola oil stability (P ≤ 0.05). Results demonstrated that the green tea extract could be used as an effective antioxidant. Free and liposomal extract (at 600 mg L−1) resulted in stronger functionality than the synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene.
An Inexpensive Paper‐Based Photoluminescent Sensor for Gallate Derived Green Tea Polyphenols
Authors: Gorai Tumpa , Sakthivel Shruthi , Maitra Uday
Published: October 2020

This work describes a terbium luminescence‐based protocol to selectively detect gallate‐derived green tea polyphenols on a supramolecular gel immobilised paper platform for the first time. This user‐friendly, inexpensive (€ 0.0015) approach requires very low sample volumes for the analysis. The developed strategy enables simultaneous detection of gallate polyphenols in multiple tea samples with the potential for practical applications.
The role of URO17™ biomarker to enhance diagnosis of urothelial cancer in new hematuria patients—First European Data
Authors: Vasdev Nikhil , Hampson Alexander , Agarwal Samita , Swamy Rajiv , Chilvers Michael , Hampson Amy , Jahanfard Sholeh , Kim Nam
Published: October 2020

Introduction and objectives

Novel biomarker research is vital for the progression of safe and thorough diagnostic medicine. There is now a need to improve the diagnosis of bladder cancer via a noninvasive urine test while balancing the risks of harm from investigational procedures, such as cystoscopy and radiological tests, against the likelihood of malignancy. We evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity of Uro17™ urinary biomarker for the detection of urothelial cancer in hematuria patients in a prospective blinded validation study. Uro17™ is an immunobiomarker which binds to the oncoprotein Keratin 17, which is involved in the replication cycle of malignant cells. This study compared cystoscopic and histological investigations against Uro17™ results in patients being investigated for symptoms of urothelial cancer.

Materials and methods

After receiving both local and national ethics/protocol approval, 71 patients were consented and recruited into the study. All patients were scheduled to undergo cystoscopic investigation, and following recruitment, a urine sample was collected. Urine samples were anonymized and processed as per standard cytology protocols and stained using Uro17™ immunobiomarker. The pathologists assessing the results were blinded to the patient and background history, and the results were compared to the biopsy histology.

Results

The full cohort of enrolled patients consisted of 71 participants included. There were 55 males and 16 females, with an average age of 70. Thirteen were current smokers, 42 ex‐smokers, and 16 nonsmokers. The malignancies detected included both muscle‐invasive (n = 6) and non‐muscle‐invasive tumors (n = 38), and tumors of all grades and carcinoma in situ. Uro17™ was shown to have an overall sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 92.6%, with a positive predictive value of 0.957 and negative predictive value of 1. Uro17™ investigation was positive in every case of urothelial malignancy.

Conclusions

Our current data indicates Uro17™ is a highly sensitive noninvasive bladder cancer urine detection test that can improve the diagnosis of Bladder cancer. This can further improve diagnostic capabilities in primary care, reduce the number of referrals to Urology department, and reduce the number of unnecessary invasive procedures for new patients with a suspected urinary bladder cancer.
Enhanced luminescence of CaF2:Er3+/Nd3+ nanoparticles coated by fluorinated β‐diketone
Authors: Song Limei , Lu Sinan , Shi Ying , Fang Youlu , Jia Yuan , Zhu Gang , Li Jiangtao
Published: October 2020

In this study, several CaF2 nanoparticles doped with individual ions Nd3+ and Er3+ were synthesized with ligands pentafluorobenzoyl trifluoroacetone (PBTA) and 2‐naphthoyltrifluoroacetone (NTA), which served as modifiers. Influence of the modifiers on the luminescence properties of the nanoparticles was investigated. The as‐prepared nanoparticles had a similar size and dispersion with an irregular spherical shape, which reduced the influence of particle size on the luminescence of the nanoparticles. The luminescence spectra of these nanoparticles showed the characteristic luminescence of the central lanthanide ions under excitation of the maximum excitation wavelength. Compared with nanoparticles modified by the NTA ligand, nanoparticles modified by the PBTA ligand possessed stronger luminescence intensity for the doping Nd3+ or Er3+ ions.