bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence from the resurrected family Polyrhabdinidae Kamm, 1922 (Apicomplexa: Gregarinomorpha) supports the epimerite, an attachment organelle, as a major eugregarine innovation
Authors: Paskerova Gita G. , Miroliubova Tatiana S. , Valigurová Andrea , Janouškovec Jan , Kováčiková Magdaléna , Diakin Andrei , Sokolova Yuliya Ya. , Mikhailov Kirill V. , Aleoshin Vladimir V. , Simdyanov Timur G.
Published: September 2021

Background

Gregarines are a major group of apicomplexan parasites of invertebrates. The gregarine classification is largely incomplete because it relies primarily on light microscopy, while electron microscopy and molecular data in the group are fragmentary and often do not overlap. A key characteristic in gregarine taxonomy is the structure and function of their attachment organelles (AOs). AOs have been commonly classified as “mucrons” or “epimerites” based on their association with other cellular traits such as septation. An alternative proposal focused on the AOs structure, functional role, and developmental fate has recently restricted the terms “mucron” to archigregarines and “epimerite” to eugregarines.

Methods

Light microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy, molecular phylogenetic analyses of ribosomal RNA genes.

Results

We obtained the first data on fine morphology of aseptate eugregarines Polyrhabdina pygospionis and Polyrhabdina cf. spionis, the type species. We demonstrate that their AOs differ from the mucron in archigregarines and represent an epimerite structurally resembling that in other eugregarines examined using electron microscopy. We then used the concatenated ribosomal operon DNA sequences (SSU, 5.8S, and LSU rDNA) of P. pygospionis to explore the phylogeny of eugregarines with a resolution superior to SSU rDNA alone. The obtained phylogenies show that the Polyrhabdina clade represents an independent, deep-branching family in the Ancoroidea clade within eugregarines. Combined, these results lend strong support to the hypothesis that the epimerite is a synapomorphic innovation of eugregarines. Based on these findings, we resurrect the family Polyrhabdinidae Kamm, 1922 and erect and diagnose the family Trollidiidae fam. n. within the superfamily Ancoroidea Simdyanov et al., 2017. Additionally, we re-describe the characteristics of P. pygospionis, emend the diagnoses of the genus Polyrhabdina, the family Polyrhabdinidae, and the superfamily Ancoroidea.
miR-1293 acts as a tumor promotor in lung adenocarcinoma via targeting phosphoglucomutase 5
Authors: Chen Bing , Zheng Shiya , Jiang Feng
Published: September 2021

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common histologic subtype of lung cancer. Studies have found that miR-1293 is related to the survival of LUAD patients. Unfortunately, its role in LUAD remains not fully clarified.

Methods

miR-1293 expression and its association with LUAD patients’ clinical characteristics were analyzed in TCGA database. Also, miR-1293 expression was detected in LUAD cell lines. Cell viability, migration, invasion and expression of MMP2 and MMP9 were measured in LUAD cells following transfection with miR-1293 mimic or antagomir. Phosphoglucomutase (PGM) 5 was identified to be negatively related to miR-1293 in LUAD patients in TCGA database, and their association was predicated by Targetscan software. Hence, we further verified the relationship between miR-1293 and PGM5. Additionally, the effect and mechanism of miR-1293 were validated in a xenograft mouse model.

Results

We found miR-1293 expression was elevated, but PGM5 was decreased, in LUAD patients and cell lines. Higher miR-1293 expression was positively related to LUAD patients’ pathologic stage and poor overall survival. miR-1293 mimic significantly promoted, whereas miR-1293 antagomir suppressed the viability, migration, invasion, and expression of MMP2 and MMP9 in LUAD cells. PGM5 was a target of miR-1293. Overexpression of PGM5 abrogated the effects of miR-1293 on the malignant phenotypes of LUAD cells. Administration of miR-1293 antagomir reduced tumor volume and staining of Ki-67 and MMP9, but elevated PGM5 expression in vivo.

Conclusions

miR-1293 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of LUAD cells via targeting PGM5, which indicated that miR-1293 might serve as a potential therapeutic target for LUAD patients.
Antioxidants, inhibits the growth of foodborne pathogens and reduces nitric oxide activity in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells of nipa palm vinegar
Authors: Senghoi Wilaiwan , Klangbud Wiyada Kwanhian
Published: September 2021

Nipa palm vinegar (NPV) made from the sap of nipa palm (Nypa fruticansWurmb.) has long been used as a local food seasoning and folk medicine. This study compared the bioactive compounds, antioxidant,in vitroanti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of three NPVs obtained from different plantations based on varied soil and water salinity levels, including fresh water NPV, brackish water NPV and saline water NPV. The analysis results revealed that total phenolic content of saline water NPV had statistically significantly lower than both fresh water and brackish water NPV (p < 0.0001). Furthermore percentage of acetic acid in brackish water NPV had statistically significantly lower than both fresh water and saline water. NPV (p = 0.002). Nevertheless, total flavonoid and pH, were not significantly different (p = 0.144 and 0.066, respectively). The antioxidant activities using three ABTS, DPPH and FRAP methods displayed similar patterns, in which saline water NPV showed the highest antioxidant activities, followed by brackish water and fresh water NPV, respectively. Antimicrobial activity was examined for seven enteropathogenic bacteria. The tested NPVs were found inhibitive against all test cultures with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ≤ 7.8 µL/mL. The cytotoxicity of the NPV obtained from different plantations by MTT assay revealed low cytotoxicity. Anti-inflammatory activity was also carried out through the inhibition of nitric oxide production. The fresh water NPV exhibited the highest anti-inflammatory activity with IC50 17.59 ± 0.17 µL/mL, followed by saline and brackish water NPV with IC50 18.12 ± 0.49 and 28.29 ± 2.64 µL/mL, respectively. The findings indicated that NPV from different soil salinities could potentially be natural functional food and developed to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory medicinal agents with safety.
Spinal curvatures of yoga practitioners compared to control participants—a cross-sectional study
Authors: Grabara Małgorzata
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The angles of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis determine the spinal alignment in the sagittal plane. The aim of this study was to compare the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis of male and female yoga practitioners with non-practicing participants and to determine the possible dependencies between sagittal spinal curvatures and somatic parameters, time spent on yoga exercise, and undertaking other physical activities in yoga practitioners.

Methods

The study involved 576 women and 91 men ages 18–68 years (mean = 38.5 ± 9) who were practicing yoga, and 402 women and 176 men ages 18–30 years (mean = 20.2 ± 1.3) as a control group. The angles of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis were measured using a Plurimeter-V gravity inclinometer.

Results

The two-way ANOVA demonstrated the influence of group (p < .0001) and sex (p = .03) on the angle of thoracic kyphosis, as well as the influence of group (p < .0001) and sex (p < .0001) on the angle of lumbar lordosis. It was noted that yoga practitioners had less pronounced thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis and were more often characterized by normal or smaller thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis than students from the control group. In yoga practitioners, the angle of thoracic kyphosis was positively correlated with age, body mass, BMI, and undertaking other forms of physical activity. The angle of lumbar lordosis was negatively correlated with body height and body mass.

Conclusions

The results suggest that yoga exercises can affect the shape of the anterior-posterior curves of the spine and may be an efficient training method for shaping proper posture in adults.
Assessing the Information Communicatyion Technology (ICT) Knowledge Levels of the Moth Bean Growers in Churu District of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Chand Meena Nemi , Lakhera J. P. , Verma R. K. , Meena Sunil Kumar
Published: September 2021

Now a days new technologies introducing in agriculture and it reduce the role of man power. Globally, in this informative era, information, communication and technology (ICT) play vital roles in creating awareness about new innovations in every field of life, especially in agriculture. ICTs can make agriculture more innovative, attractive and productive occupation through providing latest useful information. In this study, ICTs is operationalized as the use of communication tools like, WhatsApp group, SMS, Telephone helpline to reach farmers. It saves money, time and efforts and reduces dependency on so many factors in the chain of extension. In this present study, majority of respondents were had medium level of knowledge regarding ICT.
Self-Directed Learning, Self-Efficacy in Learning, and Academic Motivation of Public Senior High School Students
Authors: Coros Joenel D. , Madrigal Dennis V.
Published: September 2021

Aims: The absence of data complementing independent learning, which is vital in the pandemic-induced distance learning, propelled the conduct of study. The study aimed to assess Self-Directed Learning, Self-Efficacy in Learning, and Academic Motivation of Public Senior High School Students, and investigated what demographic variable may influence each. It also sought to determine the correlation between the constructs.

Methodology: The study utilized descriptive and correlational design. Respondents were the 332 Grade-12 students from the Schools Division of Cadiz City, School Year 2020-2021, determined using multi-stage random sampling. Data were generated using the Self-Directed Learning Inventory, Self-Efficacy in Learning Form, and Academic Motivation Scale – High School Version. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, chi-square test of association, and Spearman rho rank correlation.

Results: There was no significant relationship between demographics and Self-Directed Learning, likewise with Academic Motivation. There was no significant relationship between sex and Self-Efficacy in Learning, however the latter had a significant relationship with family income (P=.05) and track (P=.03). There was a significant relationship between self-directed learning and self-efficacy in learning (P=.000), and between self-directed learning and academic motivation (P=.000).

Conclusion: Student demographics do not influence their disposition to engage in learning activities and with their perceived reasons to participate in it. Family income, together with the track where they belong, may influence their belief in their innate capabilities. Students who are internally driven to learn, and who have strong belief in their capabilities, will find all means to master competence on academics, even without the help of other people.
Rainy Season Food Availability for Anurans of Kimboza Forest Reserve, Tanzania
Authors: Mbije Nsajigwa Emmanuel , Kamungu Asha
Published: September 2021

Amphibians are mostly considered to be generalist predators. Some species have a narrow diet or even specialize on certain prey categories. An assessment of the feeding habits of anuran species of Kimboza forest reserve, Tanzania was conducted during rainy season between March 2017 and June 2017. Through a visual encounter survey, 93 species were captured and analyzed for gut contents. About 462 prey items were identified the most abundant component being Isoptera and Hymenoptera. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the anurans’ diet (composition or diversity or preferences) among different habitats of the forest (along boundaries and within the forest) but significant difference (P < 0.05) was found between the upper Stratum and the lower Stratum of the forest. The study provides a preliminary estimation of the actual diet of anurans and establishes a general feeding pattern for these species for the management of the Kimboza forest reserve. The study recommends the intensification of similar assessments in the nearby forest areas to come up with a complete description of the feeding habits for management purposes.
Exploring the Additive Effects of Aluminium and Potassium Sulfates in Enhancing the Charge Cycle of Lead Acid Batteries
Authors: Onu Chijioke Elijah , Musei Nnabundo Nwabunwane , Igbokwe Philomena Kanwulia
Published: September 2021

The adoption of aluminium sulfate and potassium sulfate as electrolyte additives were investigated to determine the possibility of enhancing the charge cycle of 2V/ 20AH lead acid battery with reference to the conventional dilute sulfuric acid electrolyte. The duration and efficiency of lead acid batteries have been a challenge for industries over time due to weak electrolyte and insufficient charge cycle leading to sulfation. This has affected the long-term production output in manufacturing companies that depend on lead acid batteries as alternative power source. Hence there is need to explore the use of specific sulfate additives that can possibly address this gap. The electrolyte solutions were in three separate charge and discharge cycles involving dilute sulfuric acid electrolyte, dilute sulfuric acid-aluminium sulfate mixed electrolyte and dilute sulfuric acid-potassium sulfate mixed electrolyte for one hour each. The total voltage after 30 minutes charge cycle was 2.3V, 2.35V and 5.10V for dilute sulfuric acid, aluminium sulfate additive and potassium sulfate additive respectively. The cell efficiency for dilute sulfuric acid, aluminium sulfate additive and potassium sulfate additive electrolytes are 77%, 77% and 33% respectively. The electrolyte sulfate additives were of no positive impact to the conventional dilute sulfuric acid electrolyte of a typical lead acid battery due to the low difference in potentials between the terminals.
Effect of Environmental Factors on Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) Yield in the City of Jerusalem Occupied, Palestine
Authors: Ighbareyeh Jehad M. H.
Published: September 2021

Apricot is a deciduous perennial tree, which classified within to the Rosacea family, sensitive to climatic factors, and its production has an economic role for many countries of the world, including Palestine. Mean annual temperatures and precipitation were analyzed, using data from a meteorological station of Jerusalem, Palestine, which has recorded between the year (1993-2012), and with the same number of years of apricot production, knowing that production data were taken from the Palestinian Statistics Center for the mentioned period. On the other hand, we used Professor Salvador Ravers Martins' methodology to classify the Earth in the process of analyzing environmental factors, there are two aspects of the factors: The first is climatic, which is the amount of rain or precipitation, mean monthly temperature and soil water reserve, and the second factor is the bioclimatic, which is annual ombrothermic index, simple continentality index, compensated thermicity index, and water deficit. In conclusion, Jerusalem was adversely affected by mean monthly temperature, precipitation, compensated thermicity index, deficit water, annual ombrothermic index during (1997-2002 and 2007-2012), but positively influenced by soil water reserve on apricot production, during (1993-1997 and 2002-2007), with a great rate of the variance in axis F1 (98.8%), axis F2 (0.82%) and symmetrical plot axes F1and F2 (99.8%), when the correspondence analysis was applied. However, humid areas characterized by mild summers are the suitable region for apricot production and productivity, with a temperature ranging between 22-24°C, at which high quality production can be obtained, the amount of rain is between 600 - 800 mm annually. Final, environmental regions in the thermomediterranean and the Mesomediterranean, with simple continentality index is 17 - 22, annual ombrothermic index is 2.5, while the compensated thermicity index is about 250/420, to obtain the highest ideal production of apricots in Jerusalem, Palestine.
Appraisal on Microbiologal Qualities of Hospital Wastewaters from off a Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Muftau Usman Kolawole , Juwon Arotupin Daniel , Olanipekun Ekundayo, Fatuyi
Published: September 2021

Aims: This study investigates the microorganisms associated with hospital wastewaters collected from the Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, during the wet and dry seasons.

Study Design: This project was a cross sectional descriptive study in which subjects were hospital wastewater samples collected from the study site.

Place and Duration of Study: the samples were analyzed in the department of microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

Methodology: Microbiological study of one hundred and twenty-six samples of hospital wastewater collected both during wet season and dry season periods in the years 2018 – 2019 from Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, was carried out using conventional and molecular techniques respectively and the Global Positioning System (GPS) of each collection site was accurately recorded.

Results: The microbial load of wet season samples collected from Offa Local Government Area ranged between 7±4,00 and 150±43.59 while that of dry season samples ranged between 10±2.00 x 105 and 225±67.27 (x 105cfu/ml). The bacteria isolated from wet season samples included; Alcaligenes faecalis, A. aquatilis and Staphylococcus saprophyticus with percentage occurrences of 65.4, 19.2 and 15.4 respectively, while bacteria isolated from dry season sample were A. faecalis and S. saprophyticus with percentages occurrence of 79.17 and 20.89, respectively.

Conclusion: The findings from this study showed that hospital wastewater collected during dry season period had more bacterial load than that of wet season period. The findings also confirmed A. faecalis as the most predominant and prevailing bacteria inhabiting hospital wastewater. Thus, care must be taken by avoiding hospital wastewater from getting into the municipal water supply to prevent infections associated with A. faecalis, A. aquatilis and S. saprophyticus.
On Relation between the Joint Essential Spectrum and the Joint Essential Numerical Range of Aluthge Transform
Authors: Cyprian O. S.
Published: September 2021

Associated with every commuting m-tuples of operators on a complex Hilbert space X is its Aluthge transform. In this paper we show that every commuting m-tuples of operators on a complex Hilbert space X and its Aluthge transform have the same joint essential spectrum. Further, it is shown that the joint essential spectrum of Aluthge transform is contained in the joint essential numerical range of Aluthge transform.
Ashwagandha-Induced Gastric Upset in Post-Covid Patient-A Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Javed Danish , Najmi Ahmad
Published: September 2021

Adverse drug reporting of herbal drugs is less common as they are generally considered as safe. It is also very common to use self-medication by people in the case of herbal drugs. But many     times, mild to severe events have been seen with the use of herbal or ayurvedic medicines. We have reported a case of post-covid patient, who was having complained of headache, body ache, lethargy, backache, generalized weakness and excessive sweating since one weak. Patient had past history of hospitalization due to COVID-19 moderate pneumonia one month back. Patient also had history of type-2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension and dyslipidemia and was taking anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive medications continuously. Ashwagandha powder (Withania somnifera), Maha yogaraj guggulu (herbal anti-inflammatory) and Syrup Amynity Plus (herbal immune-booster) were prescribed for these complain. Conversely, moderate severity adverse reaction like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps were noted after the intake of suspected drug i.e. ashwagandha powder.                            Nevertheless, symptoms were relieved after the de-challenge. This shows a temporal relation of the event with the suspected drug. One more possibility of drug-drug interaction in this case cannot be ruled out completely. Causality assessment was done for this adverse event and it was considered as the “probable” category of the adverse event in WHO causality classification.
Niosomal Encapsulation of Curcumin: Formulation and Characterization
Authors: Singh Deepak , Upadhyay Prashant
Published: September 2021

Aim: Because of its many actions, curcumin, a plant-derived polyphenolic substance found naturally in turmeric (Curcuma longa), has been the focus of a significant investigation. The utilization of safe, useful, and highly functional chemicals obtained from natural sources in human nutrition/prevention/therapy needs some modifications to achieve multifunctionality, enhance the bioavailability, and delivery methods, all to enhance their efficacy. Curcumin's limited water solubility, fast metabolism and removal from the body, and hence low bioavailability, are significant obstacles to its use. To address these issues, a variety of new drug delivery systems with multiple routes of administration have evolved. Encapsulating the medication in vesicular structures is one such technique that, if successful in enabling selective absorption, can be predicted to extend the drug's life in systemic circulation and reduce toxicity. As a result, several vesicular drug delivery methods, including liposomes, niosomes, transfersomes, and pharmacosomes, have been developed. Since then, developments in vesicular drug delivery have resulted in the creation of systems that enable drug targeting as well as the prolonged or controlled release of traditional medications. The present study aimed to develop and characterize curcumin-loaded niosomes.

Design of Study: In present study 32 factorial method was used to formulate different formulations of niosomes containing curcumin.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacy, IFTM University Moradabad, From December to May 2021.

Methodology: Various niosomal formulations of curcumin were developed by using surfactant and cholesterol by thin-film hydration technique. Total 9 formulations were developed and characterized (32 factorial designs).

Results: Formulation N7 was considered as an optimized formulation since formulation F7 has maximum drug entrapment and a prolonged drug release rate. The present study suggests that the concentration of surfactant and cholesterol affects % drug loading efficiency of niosomes. The percentage entrapment efficiency of niosomes increases on the increasing concentration of surfactant (Span 60) and cholesterol but above a certain concentration of cholesterol further increment in cholesterol concentration reduces drug entrapment efficiency of niosomes.
Efficacy of Preemptive Analgesia with Pregabalin in Orthognathic Surgery-A Systematic Review
Authors: Ramasubbu Subhashini , Wahab Abdul
Published: September 2021

Background: Orthognathic surgery is a treatment approach that is used for correcting the congenital or developmental anomalies of maxilla and mandible as well as secondary deformities of trauma. During these procedure saws, chisels, separators, and plate screw systems are used. Postoperative pain is an acute pain that is accompanied by the inflammatory process that occurs as a result of surgical trauma, and gradually decreases with tissue recovery. The analgesic prevents the establishment of the central sensitization due to incisional injury (only covers the surgical period) and prevents the establishment of the central sensitization (covering the surgical and early postoperative periods). Pregabalin is a structural gama-aminobutyric acid (GABA) analogue. It has been shown in recent studies that pregabalin, which is involved in chronical pain treatment, can also be involved in acute postoperative pain treatment.

Objectives: The aim of this systematic review is to assess the efficacy of preemptive analgesia with pregabalin on postoperative pain in orthognathic surgery.

Materials and Methods: The Data Bases of PubMed, Cochrane and Google scholar were searched for the related topics along with a complimentary manual search of all oral surgery journals till September 2019. Articles were selected based on the inclusion criteria, which included all RCTs.

Results: From this systematic review it is concluded that pre-emptive analgesia with pregabalin is effective in lowering acute postoperative pain in the patients who have undergone orthognathic surgery.

Conclusion: In this systematic review we have concluded that, on average, a single dose of pregabalin was shown to decrease post-operative pain. More studies have to be done to evaluate the efficacy of the drug.
Prognosis and Management of Communicating and Non-communicating Hydrocele
Authors: Basaif Wedyan Salem , Murshid Abdullah Khalid , Alhadi Yazeed Mohammed , Albarman Sultan Dhafer , Almunaikh Mohammed Jamal , Alsaffar Ahmed Mahammed , Aljohani Ahmed Saleh , Alshehri Abdulaziz Amer , Aloufi Khalid Saleh , Alnami Abdulaziz Ahmed , Asiri Abdullah Ali , Siyam Ziyad Hassan
Published: September 2021

Hydrocele can be found as a collection of fluid within the testicular tunica vaginalis. According to the etiology and pathophysiology of the disease, it can be classified into primary and secondary. Furthermore, primary hydrocele might include the closed or non-communicating, the communicating type, the congenital and or neonatal type. Many management approaches have been proposed for both the communicating and non-communicating hydrocele with different post-operative and prognostic outcomes. In this literature review, we have discussed the current management approaches and prognosis of communicating and non-community hydrocele. Adequate diagnosis of the condition is the first step to achieve favorable management outcomes. Although the reported management outcomes are reported to be effective in the literature, the surgical approaches seem to be superior. However, many side effects might be associated with these operations. Estimates show that following varicocelectomy procedures, ipselateral (left) hemi-scrotal varicocele is the most common condition to occur, which might even develop following the procedure by several months and years (in some cases). Further investigations are still needed because the current evidence is largely based on case reports and small case series investigations. Therefore, larger studies are needed to help draw effective management protocols and enhance the outcomes and prognosis.
Constraints and Way Forward for Boosting Income from Dairy Farming in India: A Review
Authors: Yadav Ramdev , Yadav Sushil Kumar , Singh Amit Kumar , Singh Pooja
Published: September 2021

For a sustainable livelihood model of farming under Indian conditions, dairying becomes an inevitable part along with crop production. Dairy farming has been a continuous source of income to the farmers which help them in their socioeconomic development. Increased quantity and quality of milk always fetches good returns to the farmers. Hence, it becomes the priority of almost all the farmers to extract more and more milk from the animals which may sometimes pushes them into faulty husbandry practices which ultimately lead to loss of income and loss of health of animals. Nonetheless, dairy production in India has boosted many folds as shown by increased livestock population and production scenario in the country. However, under Indian conditions, for enhancing the income from dairy farming certain constraints have to be layout and correspondingly firm solutions have to be made. Constraints such as poor availability of high producing Germplasm, rapidly decreasing availability of feed and fodder resources, poor husbandry practices, reproductive and other health problems among several other problems hinder the income obtained from dairy farming to the farmers. In addition to the much needed solutions of such constraints, there needs for the reforming government policies for overall development of dairying in India. This article discusses on such probable constraints and their solutions in concise yet informative way so that wholesome development of income through dairy industry may be achieved.
Disability glare and nighttime driving performance among commercial drivers in Ghana
Authors: Boadi-Kusi Samuel Bert , Austin Eric , Abu Sampson Listowell , Holdbrook Selina , Morny Enyam Komla Amewuho
Published: September 2021

Objective

Glare caused by the headlights of on-coming vehicles risk safe driving at night. The study aimed to determine the relationship between glare exposure and nighttime driving performance among commercial drivers in Ghana.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved commercial drivers with complaints of nighttime driving difficulties (N = 80; mean age = 41.5 ± 11.1 years). A questionnaire was used to investigate nighttime driving performance following glare exposure. We measured contrast sensitivity and visual acuity under photopic conditions. With an experimental setup in a mesopic setting, we measured visual acuity with and without glare exposure. The difference between the two mesopic visual acuities was quantified as disability glare index. With the same setup, photostress recovery time was also measured. Regression analyses were used to determine the relationship between nighttime driving performance score and the measures taken in both photopic and mesopic settings.

Results

The average nighttime driving performance score was 47.8 ± 17.5. Driving performance was negatively correlated with all variables (R = –0.87 to –0.30, all p < .01), except contrast sensitivity (R = 0.74, p < .01). A multiple linear regression showed that the model with all variables explained 83.8% of the variance, but only disability glare index was a significant predictor of nighttime driving performance following glare exposure (standardized B = –0.61, p < .01).

Conclusion

Our results show that the change in mesopic visual acuities following glare can predict nighttime driving performance. This measure can be incorporated into the assessment of driving fitness by licensing departments to evaluate whether a person can drive safely at night amidst glare exposure.
You've got some explaining to do: Effects of explanation prompts on science text comprehension
Authors: McCarthy Kathryn S. , Hinze Scott R.
Published: September 2021

The use of active comprehension strategies that encourage students to explain what they have read can improve students' comprehension of complex scientific texts. Most research has focused on either strategies that are engaged during reading (online) or those used after reading (offline)—often ignoring potential interactions that might occur in authentic learning. This study uses a 2(online: think‐aloud, self‐explain) 3(offline: reread, free recall, explanatory retrieval) design with a 7‐day delayed comprehension test to examine how online and offline explanation strategies affect comprehension. Linear mixed effects modeling will be used to examine both main effects and interactions.
Identification of Wiener systems based on the variable forgetting factor multierror stochastic gradient and the key term separation
Authors: Jing Shaoxue , Pan Tianhong , Zhu Quanmin
Published: September 2021

The identification of Wiener systems is very difficult because of the output nonlinearity and the parameter product term. To identify the Wiener system, a novel stochastic gradient algorithm based on the multierror and the key term separation is proposed. Firstly, the Wiener system is parameterized as a pseudo‐linear model to avoid the products of the parameters. Secondly, a parzen window is used to estimate the probability density function of the error. Thirdly, a stochastic information gradient algorithm with the multierror is adopted to estimate the parameters. The multierror takes the place of the scalar error by the stacked error, which accelerates the algorithm greatly. Fourthly, a variable forgetting factor considering errors is integrated to further speed the algorithm up. Finally, the proposed algorithm is validated by a numerical example and an industrial case. The estimation results indicate that the proposed algorithm can obtain accurate estimates with fast convergence speed.
High‐Lithiophilicity Host with Micro/Nanostructured Active Sites based on Wenzel Wetting Model for Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Mei Yang , Zhou Jiahui , Hao Yutong , Hu Xin , Lin Jiao , Huang Yongxin , Li Li , Feng Changgen , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: September 2021

Superior lithophilicity for the 3D host is essential to enable both uniform molten lithium (Li) infusion during synthesis and a low Li nucleation barrier during cycling. The wetting behavior between the host surface and molten Li can be reasonably predicted by the typical Wenzel model. Herein, inspired by the model, a lotus‐leaf‐like carbon nanotube (CNT)/NiO spheres hybrid structure is employed to improve the wettability and regulate Li plating/stripping. First, the CNTs interweave to form a highly conductive and robust sponge with accelerated Li+ transport and reinforced stability. Second, the embedded NiO microspheres possess the Li‐active nature. More importantly, the surface roughness caused by nano‐sized protuberances over its surface further stronger the lithiophilicity. By the in situ optical microscope and calculations, this multistage structure is proven to homogenize the Li deposition and inhibit dendrite growth. As a result, the composite anode enables excellent cycling performance at both symmetric and full cells. This design of micro/nanostructured host provides a new perspective on the development of an excellent wettable host for Li‐metal anode.
Designing Porous Antifouling Interfaces for High‐Power Implantable Biofuel Cell
Authors: Wang Lie , He Er , Gao Rui , Wu Xiaotong , Zhou Anwei , Lu Jiang , Zhao Tiancheng , Li Jiaxin , Yun Yanjing , Li Luhe , Ye Tingting , Jiao Yiding , Wang Jiacheng , Chen Hao , Li Dan , Ning Xinghai , Wu Di , Peng Huisheng , Zhang Ye
Published: September 2021

Biofuel cells that can convert the chemical energy of biomass such as glucose into electricity are expected to continuously obtain energy from living organisms and solve bottlenecks of energy supply for implanted electronics. However, the use of biofuel cells is limited mainly by the sharp drop in performance after implanting in living organisms caused by biofouling and electrode surface inactivation. Herein, a simple and effective strategy to overcome these problems by designing a porous antifouling interface on biofuel cells, is demonstrated. It resists the biofouling from body fluid while sustaining reactant penetration, and also enhances immobilization of enzymes. As a result, the biofuel cell can maintain almost 100% performance after implanting in living organisms, and a maximal output power of 76.6 mW cm‐3is achieved in vivo, which is≈96 times of the highest performance reported to date. This strategy is universal and can be extended to the other electronic devices such as electrochemical sensors, which presents a new avenue for developing high‐performance implanted electronics.
Graphene‐Based Technologies for Tackling COVID‐19 and Future Pandemics
Authors: Afroj Shaila , Britnell Liam , Hasan Tahmid , Andreeva Daria V. , Novoselov Kostya S. , Karim Nazmul
Published: September 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic highlighted the need for rapid tools and technologies to combat highly infectious viruses. The excellent electrical, mechanical and other functional properties of graphene and graphene‐like 2D materials (2DM) can be utilized to develop novel and innovative devices to tackle COVID‐19 and future pandemics. Here, the authors outline how graphene and other 2DM‐based technologies can be used for the detection, protection, and continuous monitoring of infectious diseases including COVID‐19. The authors highlight the potential of 2DM‐based biosensors in rapid testing and tracing of viruses to enable isolation of infected patients, and stop the spread of viruses. The possibilities of graphene‐based wearable devices are discussed for continuous monitoring of COVID‐19 symptoms. The authors also provide an overview of the personal protective equipment, and potential filtration mechanisms to separate, destroy or degrade highly infectious viruses, and the potential of graphene and other 2DM to increase their efficiency, and enhance functional and mechanical properties. Graphene and other 2DM could not only play a vital role for tackling the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic but also provide technology platforms and tools for the protection, detection and monitoring of future viral diseases.
Synthesis of Poly‐Functionalized Indolizines via [5+1] Annulative Access to Pyridines
Authors: Joshi Dirgha Raj , Kim Ikyon
Published: September 2021

Multi‐functionalization of the pyridine motif of indolizine was achieved through [5+1] annulative construction of pyridine from 2‐hydroxyacetophenone and pyrrole derivative in the presence of Cs2CO3. The reaction is proposed to take place via domino aldol‐oxa Michael‐Michael‐elimination‐oxidation procedure, leading to installation of three different functional groups at the C5, C6, and C7 positions of indolizines. Solvent (2‐MeTHF) and the hydroxyl of 2‐hydroxyacetophenones seemed to play crucial roles for this successful cyclization event. Further elaboration of the resulting scaffold and expansion of this protocol using other methyl ketones were demonstrated as well.

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Amphibious Transport of Fluids and Solids by Soft Magnetic Carpets
Authors: Demirörs Ahmet F. , Aykut Sümeyye , Ganzeboom Sophia , Meier Yuki A. , Hardeman Robert , de Graaf Joost , Mathijssen Arnold J. T. M. , Poloni Erik , Carpenter Julia A. , Ünlü Caner , Zenhäusern Daniel
Published: September 2021

One of the major challenges in modern robotics is controlling micromanipulation by active and adaptive materials. In the respiratory system, such actuation enables pathogen clearance by means of motile cilia. While various types of artificial cilia have been engineered recently, they often involve complex manufacturing protocols and focus on transporting liquids only. Here, soft magnetic carpets are created via an easy self‐assembly route based on the Rosensweig instability. These carpets can transport not only liquids but also solid objects that are larger and heavier than the artificial cilia, using a crowd‐surfing effect.This amphibious transportation is locally and reconfigurably tunable by simple micromagnets or advanced programmable magnetic fields with a high degree of spatial resolution. Two surprising cargo reversal effects are identified and modeled due to collective ciliary motion and nontrivial elastohydrodynamics. While the active carpets are generally applicable to integrated control systems for transport, mixing, and sorting, these effects can also be exploited for microfluidic viscosimetry and elastometry.
The Effectiveness of Machine Learning in Predicting Lateral Lymph Node Metastasis From Lower Rectal Cancer: A Single Center Development and Validation Study
Authors: Kasai Shunsuke , Shiomi Akio , Kagawa Hiroyasu , Hino Hitoshi , Manabe Shoichi , Yamaoka Yusuke , Chen Kai , Nanishi Kenji , Kinugasa Yusuke
Published: September 2021

Aim

Accurate preoperative diagnosis of lateral lymph node metastasis (LLNM) from lower rectal cancer is important to identify patients who require lateral lymph node dissection (LLND). We aimed to create an effective prediction model for LLNM using machine learning by combining preoperative information.

Methods

We retrospectively examined patients who underwent primary rectal cancer surgery with unilateral or bilateral LLND between April 2010 and March 2020 at a single institution. Using the machine learning software “Prediction One” (Sony Network Communications), we developed a prediction model in the training cohort that included 267 consecutive patients (500 sides) from April 2010. Clinicopathological data obtained from the preoperative examinations were used as the learning items. In the validation cohort that included subsequent patients until March 2020, we compared the discriminating powers of the prediction model and the conventional method using the short‐axis diameter of the largest lateral lymph node, as detected on magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of the prediction model was 0.903 in the validation cohort comprising 56 patients (107 sides). This indicated significantly higher predictive power than that of the conventional method (AUC = 0.754; P = .022). Using the cutoff values defined in the training cohort, the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the prediction model were 80.4%, 90.0%, and 79.4%, respectively. The model was able to correctly predict four of five sides comprising LLNM with the short‐axis diameters ≤4 mm.

Conclusion

Machine learning contributed to the creation of an effective prediction model for LLNM.
A review of cystic fibrosis: Basic and clinical aspects
Authors: Chen Qionghua , Shen Yuelin , Zheng Jingyang
Published: September 2021

Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disease caused by mutations of the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Here we summarize, at the basic descriptive level, clinical and genetic characteristics of cystic fibrosis gene mutations, while emphasizing differences between CF mutations found in Chinese pediatric CF patients compared to those found in Caucasian CF patients. In addition, we describe animal models used to study human cystic fibrosis disease and highlight unique features of each model that mimic specific human CF‐associated signs and symptoms. At the clinical level, we summarize CF clinical manifestations and diagnostic, treatment, and prognostic methods to provide clinicians with information toward reducing CF misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis rates.
Synthesis of pH‐sensitive grafted psyllium: Encapsulation of quercetin for colon cancer treatment
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Gautam Arti , Kundu Patit Paban
Published: September 2021

The pH‐sensitive polymeric materials are the current need of time in targeted drug delivery applications. The pH‐sensitive cross‐linked psyllium grafted‐poly (acrylonitrile‐co‐acrylic acid) [Psy‐g‐Poly (An‐co‐AA)] was synthesized by using ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) redox initiator via chemical grafting process for colon cancer treatment. The synthesized material [Psy‐g‐Poly (An‐co‐AA)] was characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction Zeta potential, and thermal gravimetric analysis. Furthermore, quercetin (QPN) drug was encapsulated in cross‐linked grafted psyllium preparing nanoparticles of encapsulated QPN via the sonication technique for controlled release of QPN and testing of in vitro anticancer and antioxidant activities. The anticancer activity of QNP and QPN were studied on human cell line (HCT‐15) and it was observed that QNP also exhibited excellent anticancer and antioxidant activity as compared to only QPN. QNP showed maximal swelling at pH‐7 and demonstrated maximum QPN release (93%) at the pH of the intestinal fluid (pH‐7.4). The drug release kinetic data followed the Korsmeyer–Peppas model (R2 = 0.9808) kinetic model, indicating the mechanism of drug release from QNP was non‐Fickian diffusion. Furthermore, pH‐specific QPN release behavior of Psy‐g‐Poly (An‐co‐AA) can be utilized for colon targeted drug delivery.
Synergistic effects of hybrid nanofillers on graphene oxide reinforced epoxy coating on corrosion resistance and fire retardancy
Authors: Kabeb Siti Maznah , Hassan Azman , Ahmad Faiz , Mohamad Zurina , Sharer Zalilah , Mokhtar Munirah
Published: September 2021

This study investigated the synergistic effects of two different type of nanofillers, that is, halloysite nanotube (HNT) and montmorillonite (MMT) on anticorrosion performance and flame retardancy properties of graphene oxide reinforced epoxy coatings for structural steel application. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Tafel polarization, salt spray test (SST) and limiting oxygen index (LOI) tests were conducted to reveal the effects of hybrid nanofillers on corrosion protection and flame retardancy performance of the coatings. The dispersion of the nanofillers with the matrix was characterized via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed, EGO0.6 coatings exhibited the best anticorrosion performance (Rct = 2.105 × 109 Ω.cm) compared to E0 coating (Rct = 6.420 × 108 Ω.cm) and epoxy filled with single nanofiller. The coating reinforced with hybrid nanofillers, EGO0.6H0.3 showed further improvement in corrosion resistance, compared to other single and hybrid nanofillers coatings studied. All epoxy coating samples filled with nanofillers showed slow burning behavior in the LOI test. The incorporation of hybrid nanofillers increased the LOI value of EGO0.6H0.4 coating up to 25.0 from 21.0 for neat epoxy coating. The LOI data shows a good correlation with char formation from thermogravimetric analysis analysis. TEM results revealed a positive effect of the nanofillers on HNT/GO/epoxy coating showing a well‐dispersed and enhanced barrier properties.
A group psychoanalytic approach to the analysis of peacemakers' practice
Authors: Salaam Abdel‐Malek Hana
Published: September 2021

Peacemakers dealing with violent conflicts are often exposed to stressors that are detrimental to the peacemaking process. Such stressors hinder performance and challenge the peacemakers' professional identity and identifications, both consciously and unconsciously. Moreover, peacemakers may risk contamination by the “radioactive,” traumatic elements of the violence inherent in the bellicose situations they deal with at the peace table. They may become “crypt carriers” of expulsed mourning and denied lost objects. In this study, I elaborate on whether a group psychoanalytic approach to analyzing peacemakers' practice can offer mediators the space to explore, elaborate on, and symbolize the unconscious dynamics underlying their practice. Having such a space can help them perform the psychic “work of trauma,” and shield or decontaminate them and their practice from the “radioactive” effect of the potentially traumatic elements of their profession. Such an approach can provide peacemakers with a complementary tool for developing their practice.
Photocatalysis in Supramolecular Fluorescent Metallacycles and Metallacages
Authors: Lin Hong‐Yu , Zhou Le‐Yong , Xu Lin
Published: September 2021

The utilization of photocatalytic techniques for achieving light‐to‐fuel conversion is a promising way to ease the shortage of energy and degradation of the ecological environment. Fluorescent metallacycles and metallacages have drawn considerable attention and have been used in widespread fields due to easy preparation and their abundant functionality including photocatalysis. This review covers recent advances in photocatalysis in discrete supramolecular fluorescent metallacycles and metallacages. The developments in the utilization of the metallacycles skeletons and the effect of fluorescence‐resonance energy transfer for photocatalysis are discussed. Furthermore, the use of the ligands decorated by organic chromophores or redox metal sites in metallacages as photocatalysts and their ability to encapsulate appropriate catalytic cofactors for photocatalysis are summarized. For the sake of brevity, macrocycles and cages with inorganic coordination complexes such as ruthenium complexes and iridium complexes are not included in this minireview.