bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Communication Strategies of Fadama User Groups in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Amusat A. S. , Fadairo A. O. , Dauda A. W.
Published: August 2020

The success or otherwise of any development project partly depend on the effectiveness of communication strategies used in such project. The study assessed the communication strategies utilised by Fadama User Groups (FUGs) for fadama programme. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 120 members of the Fadama User Groups randomly selected from 10 villages in Ido Local Government which was purposively selected based on the preponderance of Fadama User Groups in the Local Government. The data collected were subjected to descriptive (percentage and frequency ) and inferential (Chi square).Result shows that majority of respondents were male (75.0%), married (95.0%) between the age of  36-40 ( 30.8%) with 66.6% having household size of 1-3 persons and ( 75.0% ) had access to extension services. Majority preferred group discussion (66.7%) and radio (62.5%) as medium of communication. Larger percentage of the respondents (69.2 %) had high access to different communication strategies   in the study area. Language barrier   ( =2.00) and irregular power supply ( =1.50) were the major constraints against effective utilisation of communication strategies used by members of Fadama User Groups. Significant relationship existed between occupation (x2=14.106, p=0.001) and communication strategies of Fadama User Groups in the study area.  It is recommended that members of FUG should be encouraged on the need to sustain the use of different communication strategies to enable them get timely information on modern system of farming.
Calibration Validation and Evaluation of CERES Maize Model under Temperate Conditions of Kashmir, Using DSSAT 4.7
Authors: Fayaz Asma , Lone B. Ahmad , Shilpa . , Qayoom Sameera , Dar N. A. , Dar Z. A. , Rasool Faisal , Kumar Sandeep , Khuroo N. S. , Singh P. , Andrabi Najma
Published: August 2020

Field experiments were conducted at Shalimar Campus of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir during 2015 and 2016 to study the growth and yield of maize at different planting dates and Nitrogen levels with further simulating Maize growth and yield at different agro-ecological zones (altitudes) of Kashmir valley at fixed dates with varied nitrogen levels and at fixed nitrogen level with varied dates of sowing. Experiment was laid in split plot design with three dates of sowing i.e. 22nd May, 30th May and 8th June assigned to main plot and four levels of nitrogen i.e. 80 kg N ha-1 (N1), 120 kg N ha-1(N2), 160 kg N ha-1 (N3) and 200 kg N ha-1 assigned to sub plot. Genetic coefficients of maize crop variety (Shalimar Maize composite-4) were generated for calibrated and validation of CERES Maize model using DSSAT 4.5. Simulation was carried out for different dates of sowing viz, 1st May, 10th May, 22nd May, 30th May, 8th June, 20th June and 30th June at same fertility levels of 160 kg N ha-1, 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 30 kg K2O ha-1 for all the locations. Simulated studies carried at different locations indicated that sowing of Maize on 30th May (D2) with 200 kg N ha-1 (N4) predicted highest grain yield in location Kokernag which was followed by location Srinagar on same date 30th May (D2) with 160 kg N ha-1(N3) and lowest yield was recorded in district Kupwara. Maximum Biological yield was also recorded at 30th May with 160 kg N ha-1 (N3). Among the district Kokernag recorded maximum biological yield with delayed maturity (160 days) simulation studies were carried out with 7 dates of sowing at fixed level of Nitrogen in all the districts. Simulated studies of maize showed that sowing on 30th May with 160 kg N ha-1 (N3) recorded maximum LAI, Biological yield and grain yield. However, highest grain yield was recorded with location Kokernag and lowest was recorded with location Kupwara.
Laboratory Diagnosis of COVID-19 Infection: Current Issues and Challenges: An Indian Perspective
Authors: Mohanty Aroop , Kabi Ankita , Mohanty Ambika Prasad , Kumar Nitish , Kumar Subodh
Published: August 2020

COVID-19, a disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 has become a public health emergency affecting more than 215 countries worldwide. It originated from Wuhan district of China and in a very short span of time, it has spread rapidly causing millions of deaths worldwide. India reported its first case on 30th January 2020 and since then the numbers have been increasing exponentially every day. As of 9th August 2020, India had recorded 21, 09,631 confirmed cases and 43,379 deaths. Because of the complex dynamics involved in its infection and immunity, proper diagnosis is imperative in order to unravel this ongoing mystery. It has clearly told us the importance of establishing and strengthening a strong network of molecular virology laboratories in the country enabling us to strengthen the diagnostic arm which is the first step in disease control. The addition of serological tests has helped in surveillance and also to estimate the overall burden of disease.
Anti-microbial Efficacy of Commercially Available Herbal Dentifrices on Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans
Authors: Babu Naziya K. , Arumugham I. Meignana , Kumar R. Pradeep , Sakthi D. Sri , Shanmugham S. Shiva
Published: August 2020

Dental caries is a multi-factorial disease .Various chemically derived antimicrobial agents are incorporated to dentifrices to curb cariogenic microorganisms. There has been renewed interest in naturally occurring products in recent years, the side effects encountered with the use of synthetic formulations led to the surge for novel alternatives. To compare the efficacy of herbal dentifrices on oral microflora using antibiotic susceptibility tests. Two strains of microorganisms- Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans were taken and incubated in Mutans media, Sabouraud Dextrose agar respectively. Different dilutions (1:5, 1:10, 1:15) of several brands of toothpastes with different compositions were made. Sterile discs were incorporated with equal amounts of prepared toothpaste formulations. Then these discs were placed equidistant to each other followed by plates were incubated for 24 hours. Zone of inhibition is found to be higher in Ayush (30 mm), followed by Dant kanti, Colgate vedshakti, Meswak, Dantajeevan and Dabur red showing inhibition zones of 26 mm, 24 mm, 17 mm and 14 mm respectively. Results show that herbal toothpaste formulations were effective in controlling the oral microflora. The antimicrobial properties of the six dentifrices concluded that almost all the commercially available herbal dentifrices had antimicrobial activity to some extent.
Awareness of Dental Students on the Application of PRF in Dental Practice - A Survey
Authors: Sriram Kadambari , Ganapathy Dhanraj , Duraisamy Revathi
Published: August 2020

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a fibrin matrix in which platelet cytokines, growth factors, and cells are trapped and may be released after a certain time and that can serve as a resorbable membrane.

In other words, it is an increased concentration of platelets suspended in a matrix which can serve as a vehicle to carry cells involved in tissue regeneration. This survey aimed at assessing the knowledge and awareness of Platelet-rich fibrin among dental students. The study was done in an online setting among the dental students of the Chennai population. The sample size of 150 participants of the age group 20-23 years, both males and females were selected by a simple random sampling method. Both descriptive (frequency of the responses) and inferential statistics (Chi-square tests) were done and the results were presented in the forms of graphs. According to this survey-based study, it was noted that the majority of participants were comprised of females (67%). It was observed that 87% of the population participated in the study were aware of the term PRF (ie. platelet-rich fibrin) whereas 13% of the population was not aware of the term. The statistical association between gender and the awareness of PRF, its advantages, and components was found to be significant (p<0.05), with females having more awareness than males. Within the limitations of this study, we can conclude that while dental students are aware of PRF they do not have extensive knowledge of its components and its application in various procedures. It was also observed that there was a disparity in awareness between the genders where females were much aware compared to males. We propose to include this knowledge of PRF in the curriculum to ensure increased awareness of PRF among dental students.
Knowledge and Awareness on Vitamin D Deficiency among IT Employees
Authors: Begum Akifa , Jeevitha M. , Preetha S.
Published: August 2020

Vitamin D is well known for its essential role in maintaining healthy bones. Deficiency of this causes the bones to become soft and weak, a disease known as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Vitamin D is produced via skin under the action of sunlight, with smaller amounts from dietary sources. A self-administered questionnaire was prepared consisting of 10 questions. The questionnaire consisted of open ended and close ended type of questions. The survey was conducted among the IT (Information Technology) employees of a particular region. The survey was conducted via online platform. The results were collected, analysed and interpreted. The results conveyed that a majority (83%) of the IT employees were aware that the vitamin D deficiency mainly causes obesity. 50% of the IT employees were aware that vitamin D deficiency causes mainly skin cancer. 52.1% of the IT employees were aware that vitamin D levels support lung function and cardiovascular health. The present study concluded that the IT employees were well aware about the vitamin D deficiency and its risk factors. They had a good knowledge on the fact that vitamin D deficiency causes obesity and many other health issues.
Awareness of Therapeutic Benefits of Green Tea among Dental Fraternity
Authors: Raj Mohamed Naz Fathima , Ganapathy Dhanraj , Sasanka L. Keerthi
Published: August 2020

Green tea is a popular beverage and in vitro studies have shown that green tea phenols inhibit the growth and cellular adherence of periodontal pathogens and their production of virulence factors. The antioxidants, bacteria battling catechins and other micronutrients in green tea fortify tooth structures, whitens teeth, keep breath fresh, and dissolves plaque. Green tea controls bacteria and lowers the acidity of saliva and dental plaque, it may be a useful tool in preventing cavities. Green tea’s anti-inflammatory powers seem to help control periodontal (gum) disease. The aim of this present survey was to establish awareness of the therapeutic benefits of green tea among the dental fraternity. A descriptive survey was conducted among dental students of Saveetha Dental college using a questionnaire in the google form. The questionnaire consists of 15 questions that were framed based on the knowledge of the therapeutic benefits of green tea in oral health and sent to 75 subjects. The data was collected and systematically analyzed that 62% of participants reported that green tea removes bad breath, 68% of participants reported that green tea has anti-inflammatory effects that heal gum diseases. About 64% of participants reported that frequent intake of green tea would decrease dental caries formation. About 60% of participants reported that green tea has curative properties against dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral malignancy. Based on this survey, the knowledge and awareness about the therapeutic benefits of green tea among the dental fraternity have been known by the majority of persons.
Antigen‐Presenting Cells
Authors: Stagg Andrew J , Hornsby Eve , Knight Stella C
Published: August 2020

Professional antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) comprise dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages (MΦs) and B cells. Collectively, they initiate an adaptive immune response to pathogens, shape the nature of this response and contribute to its regulation and termination. They also play key roles in maintenance of tolerance to self‐antigens. Only DCs are able to activate naïve T cells, and from this pivotal position at the initiation of a response, they are able to shape the differentiation of the T cells towards different functional fates and instruct trafficking of these cells to sites of infection. In contrast, MΦs and B cells re‐stimulate T cells, previously activated by DCs in an antigen‐specific manner. They function to amplify the initial DC‐activated response and to elicit the targeted production of T cell‐derived factors required for antibody production by B cells and the enhanced microbicidal activity of MΦs.

Key Concepts

Cells that express MHC class II under resting conditions are often termed ‘professional’ antigen‐presenting cells (APCs).

Professional APCs comprise dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages (MΦs) and B cells.

Many tissue MΦs are derived from embryonic precursors and locally renew; DCs, B cells and some MΦs are derived by distinct pathways, in adult bone marrow.

Only DCs can activate naïve T cells.

DC‐derived signals shape the differentiation of CD4 T cells towards different functional subsets and can influence the trafficking of the cells generated to different tissues.

DCs can also induce tolerance via deletion, anergy and generation of T cells with regulatory properties.

Small numbers of DCs carrying self‐antigens constitutively migrate to secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs), but in the absence of exposure to infection‐associated ‘danger’ signals they express low levels of co‐stimulatory molecules and fail to stimulate adaptive immunity.

In infection, DCs undergo maturation in response to danger signals; mature DCs presenting foreign antigens and expressing high levels of co‐stimulatory molecules induce effector T cell responses.

B cells present antigen to DC‐activated T cells in order to trigger the targeted release of T cell derived factors that are required by B cells for production of high‐quality antibodies (‘T cell help’).

MΦs present antigen to DC‐activated T cells in order to trigger the targeted release of cytokines that activate the MΦ for enhanced microbicidal activity, reducing collateral tissue damage caused by toxic metabolites involved in pathogen killing.
Pituitary
Authors: Seejore Khyatisha , Murray Robert D
Published: August 2020

The pituitary gland is central to the regulation and functional integrity of many peripheral hormone systems. Based at the base of the brain, the pituitary integrates signals from the hypothalamus with feedback from the peripheral endocrine glands, and in turn, releases the requisite amount of hormone or trophic factor for the ambient metabolic and physiological conditions. The past decades have seen key milestones in recombinant production of all known pituitary and hypothalamic hormones, characterisation of their receptors and discovery of additional hypothalamic peptides regulating the pituitary. These have enabled an in‐depth understanding of hypothalamic–pituitary physiology and pathophysiology.

Key Concepts

The pituitary gland is centrally regulated by the hypothalamus.

The anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) contains five distinct glandular cell types that secrete growth hormone (GH), prolactin, gonadotrophins (luteinizing hormone, LH; follicle‐stimulating hormone, FSH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH).

Anterior pituitary hormones are secreted in pulses under control of hypothalamic trophic factors released in the hypophyseal portal circulation.

The ultradian pulsed patterns of GH, prolactin, ACTH and TSH secretion follow endogenous circadian rhythms.

Peripheral hormones released from target endocrine organs regulate secretion of anterior pituitary hormones in negative feedback loops, with the exception of prolactin.

Prolactin is produced by pituitary lactotrophs and is tonically inhibited by the hypothalamic neurotransmitter, dopamine.

The neurohypophysis (posterior pituitary) is constituted of axonal projections extending from the hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei that secrete arginine vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin.

Posterior pituitary hormones are secreted and regulated via neural pathways to coordinate water balance and reproductive function.
Viroids
Authors: Flores Ricardo , Daròs José‐Antonio , Hernández Carmen , Navarro Beatriz , Serio Francesco Di
Published: August 2020

Viroids are infectious, nonprotein‐coding, highly structured small circular ribonucleic acids (RNAs) able to replicate autonomously and induce diseases in higher plants. Viroids and viruses differ in structure, function and evolutionary origin (with the former regarded as relics of a primitive RNA world). Viroids are classified into the families
Pospiviroidae
and
Avsunviroidae
, the members of which replicate in the nucleus and chloroplast, respectively, through an RNA‐based rolling circle mechanism with three steps catalysed by (1) host deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)‐dependent RNA polymerases redirected to accept RNA templates, (2) ribonucleases or, in the
Avsunviroidae
, hammerhead ribozymes and (3) RNA ligases, either DNA ligase 1 redirected to accept RNA substrates in the
Pospiviroidae
or a tRNA ligase in the
Avsunviroidae
. When infecting a cell, the viroid RNA must travel to its replication organelle, with the resulting progeny moving cell‐to‐cell through plasmodesmata and reaching distal parts through the phloem. Pathogenesis could be triggered by the replicating viroid itself, or via RNA silencing. Viroids are detected by nucleic acid‐based approaches, some can be eliminated from infected plants by meristem tip culturing, and biotechnological approaches are being developed for their control.

Key Concepts

Viroids are small nonprotein‐coding RNAs that replicate, infect and may induce disease in higher plants.

Viroids differ from viruses in fundamental aspects that include structure, function and evolutionary origin.

Viroids are classified into the families
Pospiviroidae
(nuclear viroids) and
Avsunviroidae
(chloroplastic viroids).

Viroid RNAs adopt compact secondary structures additionally stabilised by elements of tertiary structure.

Viroids replicate through a rolling circle mechanism with only RNA intermediates and enzyme or ribozyme processing.

Different viroids have distinct host ranges and closely related viroids display cross‐protection effects when co‐infecting a common host.

Viroids move intracellularly, cell‐to‐cell through plasmodesmata, and long distance through the phloem.

Viroids may infect their host plants latently or induce different pathogenic alterations including death.

Viroids propagate in their hosts as a population of closely related variants (quasispecies).

Viroids may be molecular fossils of the RNA world postulated to have preceded our present world dominated by DNA and proteins.
Oestrogens: Structure, Mechanisms of Action and Role in Mood and Cognition
Authors: Almeida Osborne FX , Patchev Vladimir K
Published: August 2020

Oestrogens are steroid hormones that act through specific receptors in the brain to influence a variety of functions, including mood and cognition. The best‐known and most potent endogenous oestrogen is 17β‐oestradiol (17β‐E2). Oestrogen actions in the brain include alterations of neuronal excitability, neurotransmitter synthesis and metabolism, neuronal development, morphology and survival as well as connectivity between different brain areas so as to generate behaviours that are appropriate to internal (physiological) and external (environmental) demands. In the so‐called classical mode of action, oestrogens bind to specific receptors located in the cell nucleus that regulate gene transcription and ultimately protein synthesis. Such receptors are widely distributed in the brain and peripheral tissues such as breast, uterus, bone, liver and heart. Oestrogen actions mediated by nuclear receptors only become detectable after several hours. In contrast, more recently described membrane‐bound receptors allow oestrogens to rapidly alter the excitability of neuronal and nonneuronal membranes. Thus, oestrogens have the potential to influence brain function through slow‐ and/or fast‐acting modes. Knowledge about how and what brain structures and functions are responsive to oestrogens over the entire lifespan is key to informing future improvements in women's health, from adolescence through to old age.

Oestrogens are steroid hormones that modulate neuronal structure, activity and function; the term ‘oestrogen’ refers to both naturally produced hormones and synthetic analogues.

Modern industrial products contain a variety of chemicals with oestrogen‐like properties. These so‐called endocrine disruptor compounds are considered to be environmental health hazards.

Oestrogen secretion starts during early development, varies cyclically from puberty onwards and gradually diminishes with age (menopause in women).

Oestrogens and oestrogen‐like compounds bind to oestrogen receptors located in either the plasma membrane or cell nucleus that lead to rapid changes in neuronal excitability and slow‐onset changes in protein synthesis, respectively.

Both the rapid and slow modes of oestrogen action contribute to the regulation of complex behaviours such as mood and cognition.

Oestrogens have wide therapeutic applications, for example in contraception and management of postmenopausal symptoms, but their prescription requires careful tailoring to individual needs and potential risk factors.

Phytoestrogens are natural (plant) compounds. Although they are widely promoted in alternative medicine, their efficacy is questionable.
Drosophila
Embryo: Maternal Interactions in Specification of the Anterior–Posterior Axis
Authors: Kugler Jan‐Michael , Lasko Paul
Published: August 2020

Studies of the maternal processes that specify the
Drosophila
anteroposterior embryonic axis have yielded rich insight into various biological processes required for animal development. As the oocyte is a single cell with a single, largely quiescent nucleus, polarising and symmetry‐breaking events must be executed through molecular mechanisms other than transcriptional control. These include intercellular interactions such as signal transduction and differential cell adhesion. mRNA‐based mechanisms are also prominent in establishing the anteroposterior embryonic axis. Specific mRNAs become enriched at the anterior or posterior poles through motor‐protein driven microtubule‐dependent transport, or through bulk cytoplasmic movement followed by anchoring. Proteins encoded by these mRNAs establish gradients through spatiotemporal control of translation and by diffusion coupled with degradation.

Ovary structure determines the activities of polarising pathways that establish the anteroposterior embryonic axis.

Initial asymmetries correlate with unequal cell divisions, a polarised cytoskeleton and differential cell adhesion.

Germ cell – follicle cell interactions establish and maintain polarity in developing follicles.

Microtubule‐dependent mRNA localisation is critical to axis establishment.

Localised determinants initiate regulatory cascades that establish the anteroposterior body axis of the embryo and specify primordial germ cells.

Various ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs) are essential for germ line development and for axis formation.

Phase transition of proteins with intrinsically disordered domains are involved in the formation of several classes of these RNPs.
Mastering the Tools: Natural versus Artificial Vesicles in Nanomedicine
Authors: Leggio Loredana , Arrabito Giuseppe , Ferrara Vittorio , Vivarelli Silvia , Paternò Greta , Marchetti Bianca , Pignataro Bruno , Iraci Nunzio
Published: August 2020

Naturally occurring extracellular vesicles and artificially made vesicles represent important tools in nanomedicine for the efficient delivery of biomolecules and drugs. Since its first appearance in the literature 50 years ago, the research on vesicles is progressing at a fast pace, with the main goal of developing carriers able to protect cargoes from degradation, as well as to deliver them in a time‐ and space‐controlled fashion. While natural occurring vesicles have the advantage of being fully compatible with their host, artificial vesicles can be easily synthetized and functionalized according to the target to reach. Research is striving to merge the advantages of natural and artificial vesicles, in order to provide a new generation of highly performing vesicles, which would improve the therapeutic index of transported molecules. This progress report summarizes current manufacturing techniques used to produce both natural and artificial vesicles, exploring the promises and pitfalls of the different production processes. Finally, pros and cons of natural versus artificial vesicles are discussed and compared, with special regard toward the current applications of both kinds of vesicles in the healthcare field.
Time‐Resolved Structural Kinetics of an Organic Mixed Ionic–Electronic Conductor
Authors: Paulsen Bryan D. , Wu Ruiheng , Takacs Christopher J. , Steinrück Hans‐Georg , Strzalka Joseph , Zhang Qingteng , Toney Michael F. , Rivnay Jonathan
Published: August 2020

The structure and packing of organic mixed ionic–electronic conductors have an especially significant effect on transport properties. In operating devices, this structure is not fixed but is responsive to changes in electrochemical potential, ion intercalation, and solvent swelling. Toward this end, the steady‐state and transient structure of the model organic mixed conductor, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), is characterized using multimodal time‐resolved operando techniques. Steady‐state operando X‐ray scattering reveals a doping‐induced lamellar expansion of 1.6 Å followed by 0.4 Å relaxation at high doping levels. Time‐resolved operando X‐ray scattering reveals asymmetric rates of lamellar structural change during doping and dedoping that do not directly depend on potential or charging transients. Time‐resolved spectroscopy establishes a link between structural transients and the complex kinetics of electronic charge carrier subpopulations, in particular the polaron–bipolaron equilibrium. These findings provide insight into the factors limiting the response time of organic mixed‐conductor‐based devices, and present the first real‐time observation of the structural changes during doping and dedoping of a conjugated polymer system via X‐ray scattering.
Tunable Dual‐Split‐Disk Resonator with Electromagnetically Induced Transparency Characteristic
Authors: Zheng Daoye , Lin Yu‐Sheng
Published: August 2020

A tunable dual‐split‐disk resonator (TDSDR) composed of top and bottom Au split‐disk resonators (SDRs) in the terahertz (THz) wave is presented. TDSDR exhibits electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) characteristic by changing the rotation angle of top SDR (θ) and distance between top and bottom SDRs (h). The bright and dark modes are defined by the resonances with θ = 90° and 0°, respectively. The resonances could also be controlled by changing h values. It can generate a tunable sharp resonance by moving the top SDR to change h value. Furthermore, the amplitude of EIT resonance could be tuned and switched on/off state, i.e., bright and dark modes by rotating top SDR with specific h value. When h value is 1 µm, the free spectra range (FSR) could be tuned 0.24 THz and EIT characteristic is not clear. By continuously changing h value to 3 µm, EIT characteristic could be tuned with a modulation depth of 75.58%. The average quality factor (Q‐factor) of resonances is 11.54 and average figure of merit (FOM) is 7.06. When h value is enlarged to 5 µm, EIT characteristic could be tuned with a modulation depth of 62.73%, while the average Q‐factor is 14.50 and average FOM is 9.35.
Photoinvertible Chiral Liquid Crystal that Affords Helicity‐Controlled Aromatic Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Yoshida Satoru , Morikawa Santa , Ueda Kenta , Hidaka Masatomo , Kaneko Kosuke , Kaneko Kimiyoshi , Hanasaki Tomonori , Akagi Kazuo
Published: August 2020

Photoinvertible chiral compounds are synthesized by linking a photoresponsive bisbenzothienylethene moiety with an axially chiral binaphthyl moiety and used as chiral dopants to prepare a photoinvertible chiral nematic liquid crystal (N*‐LC) field. Subsequently, electrochemical polymerizations of ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) in the N*‐LC field to synthesize helical poly(ethylenedioxythiophene)s (H‐PEDOTs) are achieved. The H‐PEDOTs show not only spiral morphologies resembling the fingerprinted texture of N*‐LC in polarizing optical microscope but also bisignate Cotton effects in circular dichroism spectra, indicating the formation of a helically π‐stacked structure in terms of the main chains of H‐PEDOT. In addition, the signs of the bisignate Cotton effect are strictly determined by the helicity of the N*‐LC. The present N*‐LC is the first reaction field exhibiting photoinvertible chirality with extremely high fatigue resistance and serves as an asymmetric medium for electrochemical polymerization, leading to dynamic helicity control of conjugated polymers.
What Can Environmental Economists Learn from theCOVID‐19 Experience?
Authors: Pannell David J. , Adamowicz Wiktor L.
Published: August 2020

The responses of policy makers, individuals, and businesses to COVID‐19 contrast with typical responses to environmental issues. In most countries, governments have been willing to act decisively to implement costly restrictions on work and personal life, to a degree that has never been observed for an environmental issue. A number of possible lessons for environmental economists are identified. In addition to valuing natural environments, people also place a high value on social interactions. These two values may interact. Adaptation can substantially reduce the cost of restrictive policies and should be considered when policy proposals are being evaluated. Preparation for an emergency can substantially reduce its costs by allowing a more rapid response. The development of new technologies can play a key role in reducing externalities. As well, the effectiveness of policies that deliver public goods can be enhanced by credible leaders who provide clear, compelling, and consistent information, emphasizing both the private and public benefits of compliance.
Conditional correlation and volatility between spot and futures markets for soybean and corn
Authors: Tonin Julyerme M. , Vieira Carlos M. R. , de Sousa Fragoso Rui M. , Martines Filho João G.
Published: August 2020

This paper investigates the dynamics of volatility and conditional correlations between corn and soybean prices in the spot and futures markets. Faced with price and production risks, farmers must use all information available in their risk management process, both in their product's spot and futures markets, and in related products' markets, either domestic or foreign. Dynamic conditional correlation specifications with a bivariate GARCH model are employed, with data for Brazilian and U.S. markets in the period 2004–2017, during which several structural changes and extreme climate phenomena have occurred. We find the highest correlations between the corn and soybean spot markets, and evidence of spillovers in both products in the spot and futures markets. We also find that the financial crisis have significantly affected the relationship between the corn and soybean markets. We also find that in periods of increased conditional correlation between the soybean and corn markets, there is an increase in the optimal hedge ratio for risk management strategies involving corn futures contracts at B3 and Chicago Mercantile Exchange. [EconLit Citations: C32, G13, Q14].
Clinical impact of Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System (ESSQS) by Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery (JSES) for laparoscopic distal gastrectomy and low anterior resection based on the National Clinical Database (NCD) registry
Authors: Akagi Tomonori , Endo Hideki , Inomata Masafumi , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Mori Toshiyuki , Kojima Kazuyuki , Kuroyanagi Hiroya , Sakai Yoshiharu , Nakajima Kentaro , Shiroshita Hidefumi , Etoh Tsuyoshi , Saida Yoshihisa , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Hasegawa Hirotoshi , Ueno Hideki , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Miyata Hiroaki , Kitagawa Yuko , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: August 2020

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the association between surgeons certified via the Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System (ESSQS) of the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery (JSES) and surgical outcomes of laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) and laparoscopic low anterior resection (LLAR).

Methods

Japanese National Clinical Database data on the patients undergoing LDG and LLAR between 2014‐2016 were analyzed retrospectively. The proportion of cases performed by ESSQS‐certified surgeons was calculated for each procedure, and clinicopathological factors with or without participation of ESSQS‐certified surgeons as an operator were assessed. Then, effects of operations performed by ESSQS‐certified surgeons on short‐term patient outcomes were analyzed using generalized estimating equations logistic regression analysis.

Results

There were 110 610 and 65 717 patients who underwent LDG and LLAR, respectively. The operations performed by ESSQS‐certified surgeons in each procedure totaled 28 467 (35.3%) and 12 866 (31.2%), respectively. A multivariable logistic regression model showed that odds ratios of mortality for LDG and LLAR performed by ESSQS‐certified surgeons were 0.774 (95% CI, 0.566‐1.060, P = 0.108) and 0.977 (0.591‐1.301, P = 0.514), respectively. Odds ratios for secondary endpoints of anastomotic leakage in LDG and LLAR performed by ESSQS‐certified surgeons were 0.835 (95% CI, 0.723‐0.964, P = 0.014) and 0.929 (0.860‐1.003, P = 0.059), respectively, whereas that of ileus/bowel obstruction for LLAR performed by ESSQS‐certified surgeons was 1.265 (1.132‐1.415, P < 0.001). There were no significant associations between the two operations performed by ESSQS‐certified surgeons and other factors such as mortality and overall complications.

Conclusions

ESSQS certification did not affect postoperative mortality following LDG and LLAR, but annual experience of laparoscopic surgery was associated with it. ESSQS certification may contribute to favorable outcomes regarding anastomotic leakage following LDG and LLAR.
Bosley–Salih–Alorainy syndrome in patients from India
Authors: Patil Siddaramappa J. , Karthik Gadabanahalli Ashok , Bhavani Gandham SriLakshmi , Bhat Venkatraman , Matalia Jyoti , Shah Jhanvi , Shukla Anju , Girisha Katta Mohan
Published: August 2020

Bi‐allelic HOXA1 pathogenic variants clinically manifest as two distinct syndromes, Bosley–Salih–Alorainy syndrome (BSAS) and Athabascan brainstem dysgenesis syndrome, mainly reported in two different populations from Saudi Arabia and southwest North America, respectively. Here we report two siblings of Indian origin with BSAS phenotype caused by a novel homozygous exon 2 HOXA1 pathogenic variants.
The peroxisomal disorder spectrum and Heimler syndrome: Deep phenotyping and review of the literature
Authors: Varela Malena Daich , Jani Priyam , Zein Wadih M. , D'Souza Precilla , Wolfe Lynne , Chisholm Jennifer , Zalewski Christopher , Adams David , Warner Blake M. , Huryn Laryssa A. , Hufnagel Robert B.
Published: August 2020

The spectrum of peroxisomal disorders is wide and comprises individuals that die in the first year of life, as well as people with sensorineural hearing loss, retinal dystrophy and amelogenesis imperfecta. In this article, we describe three patients; two diagnosed with Heimler syndrome and a third one with a mild‐intermediate phenotype. We arrived at these diagnoses by conducting complete ophthalmic (National Eye Institute), auditory (National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders), and dental (National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research) evaluations, as well as laboratory and genetic testing. Retinal degeneration with macular cystic changes, amelogenesis imperfecta, and sensorineural hearing loss were features shared by the three patients. Patients A and C had pathogenic variants inPEX1and Patient B, inPEX6. Besides analyzing these cases, we review the literature regarding mild peroxisomal disorders, their pathophysiology, genetics, differential diagnosis, diagnostic methods, and management. We suggest that peroxisomal disorders are considered in every child with sensorineural hearing loss and retinal degeneration. These patients should have a dental evaluation to rule out amelogenesis imperfecta as well as audiologic examination and laboratory testing including peroxisomal biomarkers and genetic testing. Appropriate diagnosis can lead to better genetic counseling and management of the associated comorbidities.
A comparison of axial trunk rotation during bipedal walking between humans and Japanese macaques
Authors: Kinoshita Yuki , Goto Ryosuke , Nakano Yoshihiko , Hirasaki Eishi
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Human walking involves out‐of‐phase axial rotations of the thorax and pelvis. It has long been believed that this rotational capability is a distinctive feature of the genus Homo. However, Thompson et al. (2015) showed that chimpanzees also counter‐rotate their thorax relative to the pelvis during bipedal walking, which raised questions regarding the origins and development of this characteristic. In this study, we measured the axial rotation of the trunk during bipedal walking in humans and macaques to investigate if intra‐trunk axial rotations are observed in non‐hominoid primate species.

Materials and methods

We collected three‐dimensional trunk kinematic data during bipedal walking in six humans and five Japanese macaques. The human subjects walked on a treadmill, and the animal subjects walked on a 5‐m runway. During walking, the positions of cluster markers, which defined trunk segments, were recorded by multiple video cameras. Segmental xyz coordinates were digitized, and transverse rotations were calculated using motion analysis software.

Results

Although trunk rotations in the global coordinate system were greater in macaques than in humans, the intra‐trunk rotation and range of motion showed a similar pattern in the two species.

Conclusions

Thoracic rotation relative to the pelvis during bipedal walking is not unique to the hominid lineage but rather a characteristic generated by the mechanical requirements of bipedal walking. The fact that the range of motion of counter rotation is similar in these species infers that an optimal range of rotation exists for bipedal walking.
Multicolor Fluorescent Polymeric Hydrogels
Authors: Wei Shuxin , Li Zhao , Lu Wei , Liu Hao , Zhang Jiawei , Chen Tao , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2020

Multicolor fluorescent polymeric hydrogels (MFPHs) are three‐dimensionally crosslinked hydrophilic polymer networks with tunable emission color. Different from the classic fluorescent materials that are used primarily in dry solid states or solutions, MFPHs exist as highly water‐swollen quasi‐solids. They thus present many promising properties of both solids and solution, including tissue‐like mechanical properties, an intrinsic soft and wet nature, fabulous biocompatibility, along with a responsive volume, shape, and fluorescence color change. These advantageous properties hold great potential in many applications such as sensing, bioimaging, information encoding, encryption, biomimetic actuators, and soft robotics. This Review gives an in‐depth overview of recent progress in the field of MFPHs, with a particular focus on the diverse construction methods and important demonstrated applications. Current challenges and future perspectives on MFPHs are also discussed.
Über die klassische Elektronenpaar‐ und die dative Bindung hinaus: Die Spin‐polarisierte Bindung
Authors: Salvador Pedro , Vos Eva , Corral Inés , Andrada Diego M.
Published: August 2020

Chemische Bindungen werden traditionell als Elektronenpaarbindung oder als Donor‐Akzeptor (Dative) Systeme beschrieben. Externe Kriterien, wie die Art des Dissoziationsprozesses, Energieverteilungsschemata oder quantenchemische Topologien werden angeführt, um die Bindungssituation zu beurteilen. Für Systeme mit ausgeprägtem Multireferenzcharakter hingegen ist diese binäre Kategorisierung möglicherweise nicht präzise genug, um die Bindungseigenschaften wiederzugeben. Mit einem dritten Szenario kann gerechnet werden:spinpolarisierte Bindungen. Um diese zu veranschaulichen, präsentieren wir den Fall des NaBH3−Clusters. Unserer Analyse zufolge zeigt NaBH3−einen starken Diradikalcharakter undkann weder als Elektronenpaarbindung, noch als dative Bindung klassifiziert werden. Wir führen die üblichen Probleme der weitverbreiteten Bindungsdarstellungen näher aus und stellen zusätzlich ein einfaches, auf der Bindungsordnung und lokalen Spin‐Indikatoren basierendes Modell zur Verfügung, das zwischen allen drei Bindungssituationen unterscheidet.
Interaction of α‐Synuclein with Phospholipids and the Associated Restructuring of Interfacial Lipid Water: An Interface‐Selective Vibrational Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Biswas Biswajit , Roy Subhadip , Mondal Jahur Alam , Singh Prashant Chandra
Published: August 2020

Interaction of α‐Synuclein (αS) with biological lipids is crucial for the onset of its fibrillation at the cell membrane/water interface. Probed herein is the interaction of αS with membrane‐mimicking lipid monolayer/water interfaces. The results depict that αS interacts negligibly with zwitterionic lipids, but strongly affects the pristine air/water and charged lipid/water interfaces by perturbing the structure and orientation of the interfacial water. The net negative αS (−9 in bulk water; pH 7.4) reorients the water as hydrogen‐up (H‐up) at the air/water interface, and electrostatically interacts with positively charged lipids, making the interface nearly net neutral. αS also interacts with negatively charged lipids: the net H‐up orientation of the interfacial water decreases at the anionic lipid/water interface, revealing a domain‐specific interaction of net negative αS with the negatively charged lipids at the membrane surface.
On the comparative morphology of the juvenile avian skull: An assessment of squamosal shape across avian higher‐level taxa
Authors: Mayr Gerald , Manegold Albrecht
Published: August 2020

The comparative morphology of juvenile avian skulls is poorly known. Here, we survey the shape of the squamosal (os squamosum) across juvenile skulls of avian higher‐level clades. In all palaeognathous birds, the rostral end of the squamosal does not surpass the parietal and does not reach the frontal. This morphology is likely to be plesiomorphic for neornithine birds. A short squamosal also occurs in some Neognathae, but in most neognathous birds the squamosal contacts the frontal, and in some taxa the bone is strongly elongated and distinctly surpasses the parietal. Some clades show a notable variation in squamosal morphology. This is, for example, true for Strigiformes, where the taxon Athene differs from the other examined owls in squamosal size, and for the Passeriformes, where Old World Suboscines are characterized by a distinctive squamosal morphology. A unique derived squamosal morphology is for the first time reported for the Apodidae and Hemiprocnidae, in which the bone forms a elongated rostral process that runs along most of the orbital rim. In non‐avian theropods, the squamosal articulates with the postorbital and delimits the upper temporal opening. Extant birds lack a postorbital, but a topological correlation between the squamosal and the postorbital process is maintained in most taxa of the Neognathae. The phylogenetic significance of squamosal morphology is diminished by the fact that closely related taxa often show very disparate shapes of the bone, and squamosal morphology appears to be determined by multiple functional constraints including skull geometry, brain morphology and, possibly, nostril type.
Comparison of extraction efficiency and selectivity between low‐temperature pressurized microwave‐assisted extraction and prolonged maceration
Authors: Masota Nelson E. , Vogg Gerd , Heller Eberhard , Holzgrabe Ulrike
Published: August 2020

Extraction is a key step in studying compounds from plants and other natural sources. The common use of high temperatures in pressurized microwave‐assisted extraction (PMAE) makes it unsuitable for the extraction of compounds with low or unknown thermal stability. This study aimed at determining the suitability of low‐temperature, short‐time PMAE in attaining yields comparable to those of prolonged maceration at room temperature. Additionally, we explored the phytochemical differences of the extracts from both techniques. Maceration at room temperature for 24 hr and PMAE at 40–45°C and 10 bar for 30 min were carried out on 18 samples from 14 plant species at a solvent‐to‐feeds ratio of 10. The PMAE yields of 16 out of 18 samples were within the proportions of 91–139.2% as compared with the respective extracts from maceration. Varying numbers of nonmatching peaks were noted in MS chromatograms of five extract pairs, indicating selective extraction of some compounds. Low‐temperature PMAE can attain reasonable extraction efficiency with the added value of sparing compounds of low thermal stability. The method can also enable the recovery of compounds distinct from those obtained by maceration.
Biochemical features of dye‐decolorizing peroxidases: Current impact on lignin degradation
Authors: Catucci Gianluca , Valetti Francesca , Sadeghi Sheila J. , Gilardi Gianfranco
Published: August 2020

Dye‐decolorizing peroxidases (DyP) were originally discovered in fungi for their ability to decolorize several different industrial dyes. DyPs catalyze the oxidation of a variety of substrates such as phenolic and nonphenolic aromatic compounds. Catalysis occurs in the active site or on the surface of the enzyme depending on the size of the substrate and on the existence of radical transfer pathways available in the enzyme. DyPs show the typical features of heme‐containing enzymes with a Soret peak at 404–408 nm. They bind hydrogen peroxide that leads to the formation of the so‐called Compound I, the key intermediate for catalysis. This then decays into Compound II yielding back Fe(III) at its resting state. Each catalytic cycle uses two electrons from suitable electron donors and generates two product molecules.

DyPs are classified as a separate class of peroxidases. As all peroxidases they encompass a conserved histidine that acts as the fifth heme ligand, however all primary DyP sequences contain a conserved GxxDG motif and a distal arginine that is their characteristic. Given their ability to attack monomeric and dimeric lignin model compounds as well as polymeric lignocellulose, DyPs are a promising class of biocatalysts for lignin degradation that not only represents a source of valuable fine chemicals, but it also constitutes a fundamental step in biofuels production. Research efforts are envisioned for the improvement of the activity of DyPs against lignin, through directed evolution, ration protein design, or one‐pot combination with other enzymes to reach satisfactory conversion levels for industrial applications.
Activity prediction of aminoquinoline drugs based on deep learning
Authors: Wang Wenle , Chen Jinquan , Zhu Yujie , Feng Feng
Published: August 2020

The results of the traditional prediction method for the activity of aminoquinoline drugs are inaccurate, so the prediction method for the activity of aminoquinoline drugs based on the deep learning is designed. The molecular holographic distance vector method was used to describe the molecular structure of 40 aminoquinoline compounds, and the principal component regression method was used for modeling and quantitative analysis. Two methods were used to predict the activity of aminoquinoline drugs. The correlation coefficients of the results obtained from the two sets of activity data and the cross test were 0.9438 and 0.9737, and 0.8305 and 0.9098, respectively. Our data suggested that method for the activity prediction of aminoquinoline drugs based on deep learning studied in this paper can better predict the activity of aminoquinoline drugs and provide a strong basis for the activity prediction of aminoquinoline drugs.