bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nymphaea kakaduensis (Nymphaeaceae), a new species from the northern portion of the Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: Hellquist Carl Barre , Leu Andre , Moody Michael L.
Published: October 2021

Nymphaea kakaduensis C. B. Hellq., A. Leu & M. L. Moody (Nymphaeaceae) is described from Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. This new species is endemic to the “Top End” of the Northern Territory and was formerly included in N. violacea Lehm. The distinct floral form of N. kakaduensis of having generally smaller flowers with blunt-tipped petals and different coloration than N. violacea instigated a genetic study of taxa from the region. The cpDNA trnL (UAA) - trnF (GAA) intergenic spacer region was sequenced from samples from across northern Australia and a haplotype network analysis was conducted. Plants from populations that had the distinct floral form of N. kakaduensis are found to be genetically distinct from N. violacea in northern Australia sharing 4 SNPs and a notable 23 bp indel in the cpDNA intergenic spacer region to support the morphological attributes and species designation.
Unraveling the Polarization of Event Centres’ Locational Pattern and Tourism Development in an Emerging City: Evidence from Ado Ekiti
Authors: Ojo O. O. , Shittu A. A. , Ojo S. A.
Published: October 2021

The study examined the relationship between event centres’ locational pattern and tourism development in Ado Ekiti. This is a survey research which involved the use of questionnaire. The data was analysed descriptively and inferentially. Findings from the study revealed that: only few event centres are built in the outskirt of the town. It also showed that event centres are built spacious like hall and are built where it is easily accessible within the residential areas in Ado Ekiti. The study further revealed that tourist finds it more comfortable locating event centres that are well situated. The study also showed that location of event centres have impacts on tourism development in the study area as location play a major role in beautification of the city, comfortability and source of attraction for tourist. The study concluded that increase in event centres has also increased tourism activities in Ado Ekiti. The study recommended that it is necessary to find suitable strategies to source fund for the development of event centres by private and public sectors which will help to facilitate tourism development in the study area. It is also important to note that domestication of the modern methods of building event centre is needed in order to have an attractive event centre which will also enhance the development of tourism in Ado Ekiti among others.
A Study on Adoption Level of Black Gram VBN 8 among Farmers of Pudukkottai District, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Muthulakshmi M. , Premavathi R.
Published: October 2021

Pulses are important in Indian agriculture because of their high protein content (17–25%) compared to grains (6–10%), as well as their capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen and to enhance soil fertility. Black gram (Vigna mungo L.), also known as Urd bean, Urid, or mash, is a major pulse crop. The study on adoption of Black gram VBN 8 was conducted in Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu. Out of 13 blocks in the district, three blocks were selected based on the area under black gram VBN 8 cultivation. The data collected were analysed and presented using descriptive statistics. The results of the study revealed that three fifth (60.80%) of the respondents belonged to medium level of adoption category, followed by 20.00 per cent and 19.20 per cent of the respondents in low and high level of adoption categories.
Complex Equilibria and Distribution of Metal (II) Ions with Biologically Active Chelating Agents in Aqueous and Aqueous-organic Media
Authors: Ishola K. T. , Olanipekun O. T. , Bolarinwa O. T. , Oladeji R. D. , Abubakar A.
Published: October 2021

An understanding of the principles of complex equilibria and species distribution in different solutions is important in expounding and correlating the interaction of different ligands with different metal ions in complex formation. Therefore, acid-base equilibria involved in the formation of binary and ternary complexes of Co (II), Cu (II) and Pb (II) with methionine (Met) and uracil (Urc) have been determined by potentiometric titration technique. The stability constants of the complexes were evaluated at 35 ± 0.1°C and 0.02 M ionic strength (kept constant with NaNO3) in aqueous and organic-aqueous media. The species distribution in solutions as a function of pH was determined using the Hyss program. The stability of the ternary complexes relative to the corresponding binary complexes of the secondary ligand is measured in terms ΔlogK and % RS values. The ternary complexes are observed to be more stable than binary complexes in the media except for [CuMetUrc] ternary complex in organic-aqueous medium where the ternary complex is less stable than the binary complex of the uracil. The overall stability of the ternary complexes was higher in organic-aqueous system than aqueous system. The stability of the complexes was found to be correlated with the covalent index of the metal ions and Jahn Teller distortion. pH-studies of these systems revealed an increase in the concentrations of the ternary complexes with increase in pH. The formation of binary complexes was shown to be favoured in physiological pH range (3-7) while that of the ternary complexes is observed to be favoured in the pH range 5-10.
Phytochemical Screening and Wound Healing Activity of Different Leaf Extracts of Rhynchosia rothii in Rats
Authors: Tayade Sharad D. , Silawat Narendra
Published: October 2021

Aims: The aim of the present work to perform phytochemical screening and wound healing activity of different leaf extract of Rhynchosia rothii.

Place and Duration of the Study: The present work has been carried out at Oriental University, Indore between the duration of November-2020 to January-2021.

Methodology: Rhynchosia rothii dried leaf powder was subjected to continuous extraction with a soxhlet extractor using various organic solvents. Preliminary phytochemical screening with various qualitative chemical tests revealed the presence of Alkaloids, Tannins, Flavonoids, proteins, and mucilage present in Rhynchosia rothii leaf extracts. Wister rats of both sexes weighing 150-200 g were used for experimental purposes. The animals were kept in polypropylene cages at room temperature and with a light/dark cycle of 12:12 hours.  All the test extracts at a different dose level and standard were administered topically once daily from day 0 to the day of complete healing or the 21st postoperative day, whichever occurred earlier.

Results: A significant increase in wound healing activity was observed in animals treated with alcoholic and aqueous extracts of Rhynchosia rothii leaves at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight, compared to control treatments. Both methanolic and standard extracts of Rhynchosia rothii (200 mg/kg body weight) showed a dose-dependent increase in the rate of wound contraction. The methanolic extract of Rhynchosia rothii at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight showed an increase in the percentage of wound contraction from 40.08% to 88.90% from day 3 to 12. The aqueous (standard) extract of Rhynchosia rothii at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight showed an increase in the percentage of wound contraction from 46.02% to 100% from day 3 to 12.

Conclusion: From the previous results it was concluded that the Wound represents a serious health problem, both in terms of morbidity and mortality. Wound healing is a critical response to tissue integrity. Therefore, the wound healing property of Rhynchosia rothii can be attributed to the phytoconstituents present in it, which may be due to its individual or additive effect that accelerates the wound healing process. Since Rhynchosia rothii is grown in abundance in India and rest of other part of world, it could be a fairly good and easily available therapeutic agent due to its naturally occurring tendency for healing wounds as a healer, as well as controlling abnormal healing.
Oral Formulation of Anticancer Agents for Colon Cancer
Authors: Patel Dipti , Patel Krishna
Published: October 2021

Aims/Objective: To develop and estimate enteric-coated capsules containing mucoadhesive Microspheres of Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin to treat Colon cancer.

Study Design: Box Behnken.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmaceutics, Parul Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Parul University, Vadodara, between 2017 to 2021.

Methodology: Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin are used as antineoplastic agents and can be delivered via the oral route of administration. For the estimation of drugs Analytical method has been developed by HPLC. Box Behnken design has been used to optimize Drug: polymer ratio (1:2), Inlet temperature 170ºC, and crosslinking agent with a 0.5 ml 1% Gluteraldehyde solution.

The microspheres were successfully prepared by using the spray drying technique and evaluated.

Results: The results of optimized Capecitabine microspheres were obtained as Particle size 87.91 µm ± 0.274,% yield 57.21± 1.5,% Mucoadhesion 57.21± 1.5,% entrapment efficiency 82.16± 0.725. The results of optimized Oxaliplatin microspheres were obtained as Particle size 99.88µm±0.034,% yield 56.0± 0.088,% Mucoadhesion 87.0± 0.80,% entrapment efficiency 82.61±0.085. The drug content of Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin in the filled capsule was 94.67% ±0.32 and 93.45%±0.712, respectively. % Drug release of Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin in Phosphate buffer pH 7.4 was found to be 94.83±0.22 and 96.94±0.11 respectively after 8 hrs. Stability study at 400C±20C / 75 ± 5 % RH revealed that there was no significant change in disintegration time, drug content and % CDR during 6 months. So, prepared formulation was stable during stability study.  MTT assay has been performed on the formulation of Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin microspheres for assessing the % viability of both the drugs on the Caco-2 cell line.

Conclusion: The present study confirmed that prepared mucoadhesive microspheres filled with enteric-coated capsules have an antitumor effect on colon cancer cells. The formulation induced high cell death within 48 hours, and less cell viability was obtained compared to API. Six months accelerated Stability study indicates that formulation is fairly stable at storage conditions.
Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System and Rheumatic Diseases: Prevention and Rehabilitation in Modern Conditions
Authors: Mutalimov Ragif Kalimovich , Kravtsova Karina Valeryevna , Bairamkulova Amina Magometovna , Bairamkulova Sherifat Magometovna , Voynova Alena Olegovna , Goncharov Vitaly V.
Published: October 2021

The article examines approaches to the prevention of diseases of the musculoskeletal system and rheumatic diseases, as well as to the rehabilitation of such patients. It is this type of disease that has a negative impact on the quality of life of most people, since it not only makes it difficult for them to move in space, but also worsens the general state of health due to pain, which may manifest to a greater or lesser extent.

Treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system is a rather long-term process, for this reason, the prevention of such diseases seems very relevant, since it not only allows the patient to avoid prolonged pain, but also reduces the financial burden in the field of insurance medicine, since the need for expensive medical and physiotherapy treatment for such patients is eliminated. Rehabilitation of patients with this diagnosis also makes it possible to reduce the time to restore their health and return to a full life.

Accordingly, the tasks set in the work meet the requirements of today and will contribute to improving the effectiveness of preventive measures for patients suffering from diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
Knowledge and Practice of Breast Cancer and Its Screening Methods among Girls Attending an Engineering College in Ahmednagar
Authors: Autade Yogita , Chauhan Grishma
Published: October 2021

The rising incidence rate of breast cancer at a younger age is an alarming sign that future              mothers will need to be empowered to recognise breast cancer warning symptoms at an early stage.

Aim and Objectives: To assess the knowledge and practice breast cancer and its screening methods, to determine the relationship between knowledge and practice, and its association with demographic variables among engineering girls.

Method: Quantitative research approach with cross sectional study conducted at engineering College of Ahmednagar, 100 engineering girls of various branches participated in the study. Responses were recorded on a pretested questionnaire and self-reported practices through online mode and participants were agreed to participate in the study. Knowledge aspects consisted general information of breast cancer, risk factors and signs and symptoms, whereas self-reported practice for breast self-examination, clinical breast examination and mammography. Data was analysed with mean, SD, Chi Square test and Karl Pearson Co-efficient correlation.

Result: Mean age of participants was 21 years. Maximum girls from 34% Information and Technology and 25% Electronics and Telecommunication. Maximum engineering girls had good 62%   to average 22% and 16 % poor knowledge. Majority 63% had poor and 36 % average breast cancer screening practices measures. Poor practices for breast self-examination followed by clinical breast examination and mammography. Knowledge was directly associated with education of mothers and Source of information is associated with practises with a significance level of p < 0.05. Knowledge and practises had a positive correlation of “r” =.270.

Conclusion: engineering girls had average knowledge and poor practices of breast cancer screening measures.  Knowledge was directly associated with education of mothers and source of information were significantly associated with practices. Future mothers should be empowered through hands on training for breast self-examination and enhanced BSE and CBE will help for early detection for breast cancer among younger girls in future.
Bioprocessos de Co-Cultivo Microbiano: Avaliação Tecnológica de Patentes
Authors: Rodrigues Plínio Ribeiro , Gonçalves Sânzio Brandolle Santana , Druzian Janice Izabel
Published: October 2021

Este estudo apresenta uma investigação de patentes para detecção de tendências tecnológicas e de mercado em bioprocessos e síntese de bioprodutos utilizando mais de uma cultura microbiana no meio de cultivo. Patentes de 1909 a 2017 foram coletadas e uma função sigmoide de dois estágios foi ajustada com sucesso (R2 = 0,997) para modelar os documentos prospectados, contribuindo para melhor compreensão do estágio de desenvolvimento da técnica avaliada. Foram encontradas 632 patentes diferentes, publicadas principalmente nos Estados Unidos e China. O setor empresarial foi responsável pelo desenvolvimento de 50% das invenções. O desenvolvimento da técnica está aumentando rapidamente após um período de crescimento lento (1909 a 1997), impulsionado, principalmente, por indústrias de produção de químicos de base biológica e biocombustíveis. O uso de microrganismos no cocultivo em bioprocessos e síntese de bioprodutos revelou alto potencial.
Prospecção Tecnológica sobre Métodos de Tratamento de Água Contendo Corantes e Pigmentos
Authors: Cordeiro José Luiz Cunha , Brito Suzana Modesto De Oliveira
Published: October 2021

Este trabalho tem como objetivo a busca de anterioridade sobre métodos de tratamentos de água contendo corantes e pigmentos utilizando as bases de dados Espacenet e ScienceDirect. A metodologia consistiu na associação das palavras dye*, pigment*, treatment*, water* e method*, encontrando um total de 296 patentes e 25.792 trabalhos de divulgação científica. A China, o Reino Unido e os Estados Unidos foram os países que mais se destacaram no depósito de patentes relativas ao tema, indicando que tais países estão seguros com a apropriação de seus conhecimentos. A partir da análise das patentes, verificou-se que os métodos para a remoção de corantes e de pigmentos do meio aquoso são pouco explorados, tendo alto potencial para gerar inovação. A partir da análise dos trabalhos científicos publicados, verificou-se que existe um grande número de publicações referentes ao tema e que os artigos originais são a sua forma de maior divulgação.
Casca de Ostra: tendências recentes dos usos ambientais visando à economia circular
Authors: Mata Ana M. T. , Rodrigues Kelly de Araújo , Salgado Ricardo Manuel Nuno , Quintella Cristina M.
Published: October 2021

A produção de ostras em aquacultura é uma atividade econômica implantada em muitos países e que, durante o processo produtivo e o consumo, gera enormes quantidades de casca de ostra, tornando-se um resíduo importante. Este trabalho mapeia o uso ambiental desse resíduo. Realizou-se o mapeamento patentário na base Worldwide europeia, usando o software Orbit® e verificou-se que a China e a Coreia são os países com maior número de patentes. As tecnologias mais apropriadas na utilização da casca de ostra são in natura (74%), seguida por calcinada (11%) e por tratamentos químicos (6,9%). Os usos ambientais frequentes compreendem o tratamento de águas residuária (32,4%), a remoção de metais pesados (10,8%), o tratamento de corpos de água/qualidade da água (9,5%), o tratamento de gases (9,1%). Os usos evidenciam que as tecnologias focam essencialmente o reaproveitamento desse resíduo como solução sustentável e potenciadora de uma economia circular.
Spiralling into Perfection: Staging the Choreography of Portability
Authors: Davis Adam
Published: October 2021

What is important is to understand and circumvent the many parameters that determine the success of a touring show. These can include modularity, ergonomics, language of assemblers and expedient durability amongst many other issues. Adam Davis is Chief Creative Officer of TAIT – the architectural engineering and software company that has worked with everyone from Elton John to Beyoncé and U2. He explains TAIT's ‘design spiral’ approach and the benefits of collaborative creative processes.
Designing Places for Making Memories: Immersive Audience Experiences for Live Music Performance
Authors: Kronenberg Robert
Published: October 2021

With his long‐established interest in transient architecture, architect and academic Robert Kronenburg has been a longstanding friend of the STUFISH organisation. Here he probes the notion of ‘reminiscence bumps’, many of which are conditioned by music, concerts and shows and our experience of them. These bumps help make us into the individuals that we are and act as touchstones in our memories that traverse time.
An Organic/Inorganic Composite Gel Electrolyte Inducing Uniformly Lithium Deposition at High Current Density and Capacity
Authors: Li Xue , An Xufei , Li Yuhang , Chen Likun , Guo Shaoke , Wang Ruikang , Huang Ling , Li Song , He Yan‐Bing
Published: October 2021

Although gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) have attracted tremendous attention for lithium metal batteries due to their high ionic conductivity, high safety, and excellent adaptability, it is still challenging to suppress the uncontrollable lithium dendrite growth for GPEs. Here, an organic/inorganic composite gel electrolyte (PPPL) as GPEs is proposed, which is formed by ring‐opening polymerization reaction of poly(methyl vinyl ether‐alt‐maleic anhydride) (PMVE‐MA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) in polymer matrix of poly(vinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) embedded with Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) particles. The PMVE‐MA participates in the formation of a stable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) and the PEG greatly improves the flexibility of PPPL. The PPPL exhibits excellent performance in terms of a wide electrochemical window (4.7 V), high lithium transference number (0.59), and satisfactory mechanical strength (11 MPa). Besides, the PPPL contributes to the formation of stable and flexible SEI containing organic components and LiF on lithium metal, and constructs fast and uniform lithium transport channels to effectively suppress the lithium dendrite growth. The Li/PPPL/Li symmetric batteries can stably cycle 800 h at the high current density of 5 mA cm–2 and capacity of 5 mAh cm–2. The outstanding electrochemical performance of the PPPL will provide important insights for design of advanced GPEs.
Using natural language processing to compare task‐specific verbal cues in coached versus noncoached cardiac arrest teams during simulated pediatrics resuscitation
Authors: Jones Kai A. , Jani Karan H. , Jones Glenn W. , Nye Megan L. , Duff Jonathan P. , Cheng Adam , Lin Yiqun , Davidson Jennifer , Chatfield Jenny , Tofil Nancy , Gaither Stacy , Kessler David O. ,   for the International Network of Simulation‐based Pediatric Innovation, Research, Education (INSPIRE) CPR Investigators
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Coaches improve cardiopulmonary (CPR) outcomes in real‐world and simulated settings. To explore verbal feedback that targets CPR quality, we used natural language processing (NLP) methodologies on transcripts from a published pediatric randomized trial (coach vs. no coach in simulated CPR). Study objectives included determining any differences by trial arm in (1) overall communication and (2) metrics over minutes of CPR and (3) exploring overall frequencies and temporal patterns according to degrees of CPR excellence.

Methods

A human‐generated transcription service produced 40 team transcripts. Automated text search with manual review assigned semantic category; word count; and presence of verbal cues for general CPR, compression depth or rate, or positive feedback to transcript utterances. Resulting cue counts per minute (CPM) were corresponded to CPR quality based on compression rate and depth per minute. CPMs were compared across trial arms and over the 18 min of CPR. Adaptation to excellence was analyzed across four patterns of CPR excellence determined by k‐shape methods.

Results

Overall coached teams experienced more rate‐directive, depth‐directive, and positive verbal cues compared with noncoached teams. The frequency of coaches' depth cues changed over minutes of CPR, indicating adaptation. In coached teams, the number of depth‐directive cues differed among the four patterns of CPR excellence. Noncoached teams experienced fewer utterances by type, with no adaptation over time or to CPR performance.

Conclusion

NLP extracted verbal metrics and their patterns in resuscitation sessions provides insight into communication patterns and skills used by CPR coaches and other team members. This could help to further optimize CPR training, feedback, excellence, and outcomes.
Bone volume in the distal calcaneus correlates with body size but not leap frequency in galagids
Authors: Lewton Kristi L. , Cardenas Emily‐Elizabeth , Cruz Daniela , Morales Jocelyn , Patel Biren A.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Primate leap performance varies with body size, where performance will be optimized in lightweight individuals due to the inverse relationship between force generation and body mass. With all other factors equal, it is less energetically costly to swing a light hindlimb than a heavier hindlimb. Previous work on the calcaneus of galagids hypothesized that bone volume in leaping galagids may be minimized to decrease overall hindlimb mass. We predict that (1) lighter taxa will exhibit relatively less calcaneal bone volume than heavier taxa, and (2) taxa that are high‐frequency leapers will exhibit relatively less bone volume than lower frequency leapers.

Materials and Methods

Relationships among bone volume, body size, and leap frequency (high vs. low) were examined in a sample of 51 individuals from four genera of galagids (Euoticus, Galago, Galagoides, and Otolemur) that differ in the percentage of time engaged in leaping locomotion. Using μCT scans of calcanei, we quantified relative bone volume (BV/TV) of the distal calcaneal segment and predicted that it would vary with body size and frequency of leaping locomotion.

Results

Phylogenetic generalized least squares (PGLS) regression models indicate that body size, but not leaping frequency, affects BV/TV in the distal calcaneus. Relative bone volume increases with body size, supporting our first hypothesis.

Discussion

These results support previous work demonstrating a positive correlation between BV/TV and body size. With some exceptions, small galagids tend to have less BV/TV than larger galagids. Leaping frequency does not relate to BV/TV in this sample; larger taxonomic and/or behavioral sampling may provide additional insights.
Size Matters: Chipmunks, Elephants, and The Push for Settlements
Authors: Suplee Dennis R.
Published: October 2021

Years ago, when I was a kid lawyer, I attended a continuing legal education program that featured two of the best judges in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas discussing how they settled cases.
Battle of the Centuries: The Roots of Arbitration Law Come from the ‘Who Decides?’ Controversy
Authors: Samuel Adam
Published: October 2021

Although it was decided 56 years into the 19th century, the real arbitration legacy of the 18th century can be seen from the House of Lords decision in Scott v. Avery. The plaintiff insured his shop with the Newcastle A 1 Insurance Association and so became an association member. Association Rule 25 provided.
BRD4 in physiology and pathology: ‘‘BET’’ on its partners
Authors: Liang Yin , Tian Jieyi , Wu Tao
Published: October 2021

Bromodomain‐containing 4 (BRD4), a member of Bromo and Extra‐Terminal (BET) family, recognizes acetylated histones and is of importance in transcription, replication, and DNA repair. It also binds non‐histone proteins, DNA and RNA, contributing to development, tissue growth, and various physiological processes. Additionally, BRD4 has been implicated in driving diverse diseases, ranging from cancer, viral infection, inflammation to neurological disorders. Inhibiting its functions with BET inhibitors (BETis) suppresses the progression of several types of cancer, creating an impetus for translating these chemicals to the clinic. The diverse roles of BRD4 are largely dependent on its interaction partners in different contexts. In this review we discuss the molecular mechanisms of BRD4 with its interacting partners in physiology and pathology. Current development of BETis is also summarized. Further understanding the functions of BRD4 and its partners will facilitate resolving the liabilities of present BETis and accelerate their clinical translation.
Demonstrating core molecular biology principles using GST‐GFP in a semester‐long laboratory course
Authors: Verity Nicole , Ulm Brittany , Pham Katrina , Evangelista Baggio , Borgon Robert
Published: October 2021

Undergraduate laboratory courses are essential to teaching core principles in STEM. This course, Quantitative Biological Methods, provides a unique approach to teaching molecular biology research techniques to students, in a laboratory that is delivered in a sequence that parallels standard biomedical research laboratory protocols. Students attend a lecture where they are taught the essential principles of biomedical research, and a lab where they learn to use laboratory equipment, perform experiments, and purify and quantify DNA and proteins. The course begins with an introduction to laboratory safety, pipetting, centrifugation, spectrophotometry, and other basic laboratory techniques. Next, the lab focuses on the purification and analysis of glutathione S‐transferase (GST) fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP) from an Escherichia coli lysate. Students study this GST‐GFP fusion protein and perform protein quantification, enzyme assays, chromatography, fluorescent detection, normalization, SDS‐PAGE, and western blotting. Students then learn recombinant DNA technology using the GST‐GFP vector that was the source of the fusion protein in the prior labs, and perform ligation, transformation of E. coli cells, blue/white screening, DNA purification via a miniprep, PCR, DNA quantification, restriction enzyme digestion, and agarose gel electrophoresis. Students write laboratory reports to demonstrate an understanding of the principles of the laboratory methods, and they must present and critically analyze their data. The lab methods described herein aim to emphasize the core molecular biology principles and techniques, prepare students for work in a biomedical research laboratory, and introduce students to both GST and GFP, two versatile laboratory proteins.
Are microfinance institutions' financial performance gender driven? Evidence from Argentina
Authors: Díaz‐Martín Sara , Feria‐Dominguez José Manuel , Naranjo‐Gil David
Published: October 2021

This paper studies the determinants of financial performance (return on assets, ROA) of 18 Argentine Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) from 2002 to 2018. We apply the random forest algorithm to predict the ROA of the Argentine MFIs, introducing two social variables to capture the depth of the outreach such as the female ratio and the average size of the loan portfolio divided by the GDP per capita. We also consider five other main explanatory variables, such as the size, efficiency, quality of loan portfolio, solvency, and productivity ratio, as well as macroeconomic variables. Although our results indicate that the quality of the loan portfolio and efficiency are the most important variables in predicting ROA, we find that social variables are also important; in particular, the female ratio, which is the third relevant predictor of ROA. In contrast, macroeconomic variables and the financial crisis turn out to be insignificant in our analysis.
Nitrogenous Sesquiterpenoids from the South China Sea Nudibranch Hexabranchus sanguineus and Its Possible Sponge‐PreyAcanthella cavernosa: Chiral Separation, Stereochemistry and Chemical Ecology
Authors: Shen Shou‐Mao , Zhang Zai‐Yong , Yao Li‐Gong , Wang Jian‐Rong , Guo Yue‐Wei , Li Xu‐Wen
Published: October 2021

Comprehensive Summary

A detailed chemical investigation of the South China Sea nudibranch Hexabranchus sanguineus, as well as its possible sponge‐prey Acanthella cavernosa, led to the isolation of fifteen new nitrogenous sesquiterpenoids, namely ximaocavernosins A−O, including seven cadinanes (1—7), seven spiroaxanes (12—18) and one aromadendrane (19), together with thirteen known related compounds (8—11 and 20—28). Compounds (±)‐1—9 (except for 4 and 6) were further separated by chiral‐phase HPLC to their corresponding unequal enantiomers, respectively. Their structures and absolute configurations were determined by a combination of extensive spectroscopic data analysis, quantum mechanical nuclear magnetic resonance (QM‐NMR) methods, Mosher's method, X‐ray diffraction analysis and/or time‐dependent density functional theory/electronic circular dichroism (TDDFT‐ECD) calculation. The commonly existed nitrogenous sesquiterpenoids in these two animals are suggested to be chemical markers for their prey‐predator relationship.
V2O5 Nanosheets as an Efficient, Low‐cost Pt‐free Alternate Counter Electrode for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Gnanasekar Subashini , Nirmala Grace Andrews
Published: October 2021

The search for cost‐effective and efficient counter electrode finds its way in choosing vanadium pentoxide, an abundant and low‐cost material with good electrocatalytic property and stability. Two‐dimensional vanadium pentoxide nanosheets (V2O5 NS) were prepared by a simple hydrothermal method followed by calcination at 350 °C. The morphology of the synthesized material provides an excellent surface property with good surface area and a wide range of porosity distribution helps in enhancing the electrocatalytic active sites for effective reduction of I3−. The electrochemical studies performed with V2O5 NS showed good electrocatalytic activity with high current density, low series and charge transfer resistance. The electrochemical techniques CV, EIS and Tafel polarization performed with V2O5 NS gave an enhanced electrocatalytic activity and charge transfer kinetics with a low value of Rs and Rct. Furthermore, the photocurrent voltage studies done with V2O5 NS CE DSSC achieved a PCE of 5.1% ( Open circuit voltage (Voc)=0.65 V, short ciruit photocurrent density (Jsc)=11.67 mA/cm2 and fill factor (FF)=66.46%) and the conventional thermal decomposed Pt CE DSSC reached the PCE of 7.4% (Open circuit voltage (Voc)=0.78 V, short circuit photocurrent density (Jsc)=15.03 mA/cm2 and fill factor (FF)=57.39%) under similar test conditions, appreciably good performance than previous reports on V2O5 CE DSSC. The present work encourages further extensive research to develop nanostructures of V2O5 as a low‐cost alternate counter electrode to Pt CE for large‐scale production.
Fractional‐order controllers for switching DC/DC converters using the K‐factor method: Analysis and circuit realization
Authors: Cengelci Ekrem , Garip Muhammet , Elwakil Ahmed S.
Published: October 2021

Switching DC/DC converters are closed loop systems requiring controllers to stabilize and optimize their performance. A practical method for designing these controllers through pole/zero placement adjustment is the K‐factor method. This method can easily be implemented using RC op‐amp circuits given a target crossover frequency and phase margin. Here, we extend this method to the fractional‐order domain and present detailed analytical formulae to calculate all component values in two types of op‐amp‐based compensators. Mathematical analysis, circuit simulation, and experimental results all correlate very well.
The development of early monitoring tools to detect aquatic invasive species: eDNA assay development and the case of the armored catfish Hypostomus robinii
Authors: Dubreuil Thomas , Baudry Thomas , Mauvisseau Quentin , Arqué Alexandre , Courty Clarisse , Delaunay Carine , Sweet Michael , Grandjean Frédéric
Published: October 2021

Introductions of invasive non‐native species (and their subsequent impacts) are recognized as a major threat to native flora and fauna. This is especially true in island ecosystems such as the tropical island of Martinique. In 2018, one such aquatic invasive species, the suckermouth catfish Hypostomus robinii (Loricariidae), was reported for the first time in two of the islands rivers. H. robinii is a popular freshwater aquarium fish and native to tropical and sub‐tropical South America. Since its initial discovery, a growing number of populations have been found, suggesting a larger distribution of this species through Martinique's hydrographic network. Here, we developed a novel survey technique (utilizing environmental DNA) and conducted a widespread survey across the island to assess the distribution of this invasive species. We were able to detect H. robinii in 22% of sites surveyed (18 out of 83) via our eDNA‐based assay. The presence of these fish was confirmed using traditional trapping at 14 of these sites. Additionally, we used occupancy modeling to investigate the impact of different environmental covariates on the detection efficiency of the novel assay and the potential impacts of false positives and negatives. We highlight a decrease in the detection probability when water volume filtered increases. That said, the eDNA‐based method proves a useful tool for the detection of this invasive fish species and monitoring its spread for management purposes.
Efficient Ultrasonic Synthesis of Ni‐Based Metal–Organic Framework for High Performance Battery‐Type Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Xiao Liyue , Yao Shuangrui , Liu Jie , Zou Hanjun , Xu Yanqin , Cao Yuan , Chen Changguo
Published: October 2021

The nickel‐based metallic organic framework (Ni‐MOF) [Ni2(OH)2(C8H4O4)] material with a hierarchical microblocks structure is efficiently synthesized in 2 h by the ultrasonic method. At the moment Ni‐MOF is used as the electrode materials and the supercapacitors (SCs) perform very well with great electrochemical capacity which exhibited particular electric capacitance of 631 C g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1. This is one of the highest performances and the shortest synthesis time reported so far for MOFs. Besides, there is a battery – SC hybrid SC assembled by using Ni‐MOF and activated carbon. On the condition of having a power density of 302.2 W kg−1 with the voltage window of 1.2 V, the SC produces an energy density of 28.5 W h kg−1. During the same period, the SC maintains outstanding cycling stability capacitance retention of 85.5% after 3000 cycles at current density of 10 A g−1. The great electrochemical capability is due to the distinct crystal texture and particular morphological feature. Herein, it is displayed that the ultrasonic method is a fast and effective approach for preparing Ni‐MOF SC electrode materials.
Therapeutic plasma exchange for peripheral neuropathy associated with trisulfated heparan disaccharide IgM antibodies: A case series of 17 patients
Authors: Olsen Gregory M. , Tormey Christopher A. , Tseng Bertrand , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Sostin Nataliya
Published: October 2021

Background

Small fiber neuropathy (SFN) can be associated with autoantibodies, including those of IgM class with specificity for the trisulfated heparan disaccharide (TS‐HDS) antigen. We hypothesized that, as an IgM autoantibody‐mediated disorder, TS‐HDS‐associated SFN symptoms may be reduced with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE).

Study methods

This was an observational analysis of all patients referred for TPE from 2018 to 2020 following laboratory confirmation of SFN with TS‐HDS autoantibodies; a loading course of 3 to 5 procedures over 2 weeks was completed, with some patients returning for monthly procedures. The following data were collected: demographics, symptoms and duration, TS‐HDS levels, skin biopsy results, reported responses to TPE, and TPE‐associated adverse events.

Results

Of the 17 subjects, 12 (71%) were female and the mean age was 57.5 years (range 27‐94). The most common reported symptom was lower extremity paresthesia (88% of subjects). The mean number of TPE procedures completed per subject was 9 (range 3‐18), with 71% (12/17) reporting symptomatic improvement or slowed disease progression. About 15% of procedures were associated with an adverse event, with vasovagal reactions being the most common; 53% of patients had at least one adverse event.

Conclusions

Given a reported symptomatic response rate of more than 70%, TPE may be a treatment option for individuals with autoimmune‐mediated SFN associated with increased titers of TS‐HDS IgM autoantibodies. Since TPE‐associated adverse events appear common in this population, close monitoring during procedures is warranted.
Three LHPP gene‐targeting co‐expressed microRNAs (microRNA‐765, microRNA‐21, and microRNA‐144) promote proliferation, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, invasion, and are independent prognostic biomarkers in renal cell carcinomas patients
Authors: Meng Kexin , Li Zongda , Cui Xiaoying
Published: October 2021

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the highly malignant tumors in the world. Global Cancer Statistics 2020 estimated that there were 179,368 deaths from kidney tumors. Therefore, exploring the prognostic biomarkers of RCC is of great significance for RCC patients. This study aims to explore the potential mechanism and prognostic value of phospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase (LHPP) gene‐targeting co‐expression microRNAs in RCC patients.

Methods

A total of 60 RCC patients were included. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR), western blotting, and immunohistochemistry were used for LHPP, microRNA‐765, microRNA‐21, and microRNA‐144 levels evaluation. Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay, dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay, invasion assay, and RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization were used for functional analyses.

Results

Compared with adjacent tissues, LHPP levels in cancer tissues were significantly increased (p < .001). Herein, we confirmed that microRNA‐765, microRNA‐21, and microRNA‐144 were direct biological targets of LHPP. MicroRNA‐765 (r = −0.570, p < 0.001), microRNA‐21 (r = −0.495, p < .001), and microRNA‐144 (r = −0.463, p < .001) expression levels were negatively correlated with LHPP expression levels. The high expression levels of microRNA‐765, microRNA‐21, and microRNA‐144 in RCC tissues were associated with poor differentiation, recurrence, and poor prognosis (p < .05). In vitro, microRNA‐765, microRNA‐21, and microRNA‐144 act as oncogenes to promote proliferation, invasion, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) through targeting LHPP.

Conclusions

MicroRNA‐765, microRNA‐21, and microRNA‐144 are independent risk biomarkers for RCC patients. Inhibiting the expression levels of microRNA‐765, microRNA‐21, and microRNA‐144 can reduce the proliferation, EMT, and invasion of RCC cells. Therefore, the above three microRNAs are expected to become molecular biomarkers for RCC therapy.
Amphiregulin in cellular physiology, health, and disease: Potential use as a biomarker and therapeutic target
Authors: Singh Siddharth S. , Chauhan Shashi B. , Kumar Awnish , Kumar Shashi , Engwerda Christian R. , Sundar Shyam , Kumar Rajiv
Published: October 2021

Amphiregulin (AREG), which acts as one of the ligands for epidermal receptor growth factor receptor (EGFR), plays a crucial role in tissue repair, inflammation, and immunity. AREG is synthesized as membrane‐anchored pre‐protein, and is excreted after proteolytic cleavage, and serves as an autocrine or paracrine factor. After engagement with the EGFR, AREG triggers a cascade of signaling events required for many cellular physiological processes including metabolism, cell cycle, and proliferation. Under different inflammatory and pathogenic conditions, AREG is expressed by various activated immune cells that orchestrate both tolerance and host resistance mechanisms. Several factors including xenobiotics, cytokines, and inflammatory lipids have been shown to trigger AREG gene expression and release. In this review, we discuss the structure, function, and regulation of AREG, its role in tissue repair, inflammation, and homeostasis as well as the potential of AREG as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
Gift bags from the sentinel cells of the immune system: The diverse role of dendritic cell-derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Hodge Amy L , Baxter Amy A , Poon Ivan K H
Published: October 2021

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional APCs of the immune system that continuously sample their environment and function to stimulate an adaptive immune response by initiating Ag-specific immunity or tolerance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), small membrane-bound structures, are released from DCs and have been discovered to harbor functional peptide-MHC complexes, T cell costimulatory molecules, and other molecules essential for Ag presentation, immune cell regulation, and stimulating immune responses. As such, DC-derived EVs are being explored as potential immunotherapeutic agents. DC-derived EVs have also been implicated to function as a trafficking mechanism of infectious particles aiding viral propagation. This review will explore the unique features that enable DC-derived EVs to regulate immune responses and interact with recipient cells, their roles within Ag-presentation and disease settings, as well as speculating on a potential immunological role of apoptotic DC-derived EVs.
Neuropsychiatric Features of Punding and Hobbyism in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Barbosa Pedro , O'Sullivan Sean S. , Joyce Eileen , Lees Andrew J. , Warner Thomas T. , Djamshidian Atbin
Published: October 2021

Background

Little is known about the cognitive and neuropsychiatric profile associated with punding and hobbyism in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objective

To compare the clinical and neuropsychological features of PD patients with punding and hobbyism to PD controls.

Methods

The Questionnaire for Impulsive‐Compulsive Disorders in Parkinson's Disease‐Rating Scale (QUIP‐RS) was used as a screening tool, and a structured interview was used to diagnose punding/hobbyism. Clinical and neuropsychological assessment was conducted with validated questionnaires/scales.

Results

Twenty‐one patients with PD and punding (PD + pu) were compared to 26 with hobbyism (PD + h) and 25 PD controls. PD + pu patients showed higher levels of anxiety, non‐motor symptoms and motor symptoms, and lower Frontal Assessment Battery scores. The PD + h group exhibited similar levels of anxiety and motor fluctuations to the PD + pu group.

Conclusion

PD + pu showed increased anxiety and frontal lobe dysfunction, similar to PD + h. Hobbyism could be a prodromal phase with increased risk of leading to punding.
Cereal Vinegar Sediment Alleviates Spontaneous Ulcerative Colitis in Il‐10 Deficient Mice
Authors: Geng Yan , Yue Yuanjia , Guan Qijie , Ren Yilin , Guo Lin , Fan Yifei , Lu Zhen‐Ming , Shi Jin‐Song , Xu Zheng‐Hong
Published: October 2021

Scope

Cereal vinegar sediment (CVS) is precipitation generated during the preservation of vinegar. It has various functions such as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐tumor, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic. This study evaluates the effects of CVS on spontaneous colitis in Il‐10−/− mice.

Methods and Results

CVS (1 g kg−1 body weight) is administered to mice for 42 days. CVS alleviated epithelium damage, inhibited myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) level, decreased gene expression of tumor necrosis factor (Tnf )‐a, inducible nitric oxide synthase (Inos), Interleukin(Il‐23) in colon tissues is found. CVS also inhibited secretion of IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐13, Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF), granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GMCSF), Interferon (IFN)‐γ, and Regulated upon Activation, Normal T Cell Expressed and Presumably Secreted (RANTES) in serum. While CVS enhanced Regenerating Family Member 3 Gamma (Reg3γ), Mucin (Muc2, Muc3, and Muc4 gene expression, promoted intestinal epithelial cells to secrete Muc‐2, and increased the content of acetic acid in intestinal tract of Il‐10−/− mice. Additionally, CVS altered the composition of the gut microbiota by promoting the abundance of Akkermansia, Alistipes, and Lactobacillus, while inhibiting Desulfovibrio and Clostridium sensu stricto 1. These changes may be related to the regulation of steroid, fatty acids, and bile acid biosynthesis.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that CVS ameliorates spontaneous ulcerative colitis in Il‐10−/− mice, which suggests CVS supplementation may serve as a protective dietary nutrient against colitis.
Wideband circularly polarized array antenna based on weakly coupled sequential phase feed network
Authors: Mu Zhi‐Hao , Chen Chang‐Xing , Ma Jing‐Nan , Zhao Ying‐Juan , Chen Qiang
Published: October 2021

This letter introduces a wideband circularly polarized (CP) array antenna for wireless communication application. The array consists of 2 × 2 sequentially rotated symmetric antenna elements and a wideband weakly coupled feed network providing stable 90° phase difference. By using the proposed feed network and introducing the slot coupling feed, the CP array antenna can achieve a wideband CP performance with a low profile of 0.03 λ0 (at 5.0 GHz). The proposed antenna exhibits the impedance bandwidth (IMBW) of 73.9%, axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) of 53.6%, and 3‐dB gain bandwidth (GBW) of 60% with the peak gain of 10.4 dBi and the maximum efficiency of 82%. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulated results, indicating that a promising application in compact wideband C‐band wireless systems.