bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Religious Beliefs of Youth and Their Orientation to Deism: The Case of Aydın Adnan Menderes University
Authors: GÜNER Berrin
Published: November 2021

Bu araştırmada üniversite öğrencilerinin dini inançlarının bazı demografik değişkenlere göre incelenmesi ve deizme yönelim düzeylerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Araştırmaya Adnan Menderes Üniversitesi’nin farklı fakültelerinde öğrenim
gören 801 kadın ve 771 erkek olmak üzere toplam 1572 öğrenci katılmıştır. Araştırmaya katılan öğrencilerin cinsiyet ve yaş gruplarına göre dinle ilgili birtakım sorulara verdikleri yanıtların karşılaştırılmasında SPSS 22.0 programında
çapraz tablolardan yararlanılarak Ki-Kare (x2) analizinden faydalanılmıştır. Araştırmanın sonunda öğrencilerin büyük bir bölümünün kendisini “Müslüman” olarak tanımladığı belirlenmiş, buna karşılık öğrencilerin dini ibadetleri
yerine getirme düzeylerinin düşük olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Öğrencilerin deizm yönelimleri incelendiği zaman kadın öğrencilerin %7.9’unun, erkek öğrencilerin ise %7.7’sinin kendisini deist olarak tanımladığı belirlenmiştir Demografik
değişkenlere göre ele alındığı zaman öğrencilerin dini açıdan kendilerini tanımlamaları ile Allah’ın varlığına ve evreni yarattığına ilişkin görüşlerin yaş ve cinsiyet değişkenlerine göre anlamlı farklılık gösterdiği tespit edilmiştir
(p<0.05). Çalışmadan elde edilen veriler değerlendirildiğinde, demografik değişkenler açısından öğrencilerin kendilerini din açısından nasıl tanımladıklarının cinsiyet ve yaş grubu değişkenlerine göre anlamlı şekilde farklılaştığı
belirlenmiştir. Öğrencilerin Tanrı'nın varlığına ve evrenin yaratılmasına ilişkin görüşlerinin yaş grubu ve cinsiyet değişkenlerine göre önemli ölçüde farklılaştığı tespit edilmiştir. Öğrencilerin kader inancının cinsiyet değişkenine
göre anlamlı farklılık gösterirken, yaş grubu değişkenine göre anlamlı bir şekilde farklılaşmadığı tespit edilmiştir. Bu bulgulara göre yaş ve cinsiyet değişkenlerinin gençlerin dini tutum ve yönelimlerini etkilediği söylenebilir.
Body Image in New Expressionist Art
Authors: İLHAN Sümeyra
Published: November 2021

Sanat tarihsel süreçte sanatçıya kaynaklık eden önemli alanlardan biri, çok yönlü ve karmaşık yapısıyla insan olmuştur. Fiziksel, duyuşsal, bilişsel varlık yapısıyla insan, sanatın merkezine konumlandırılmış ve farklı biçim, anlam
ilişkileriyle temsil edilmiştir. Tarih, kültür, kimlik ve sanatçının yaratıma dair psikolojik süreçleri bağlamında sanatsal bir forma ulaşan insan bedeni; anlatı sunma aşamasında sanatçıya kaynaklık eden önemli bir imge haline
gelmiştir. İfadeci bir anlatımın aracı olarak kullanılan beden imgesi, özellikle dışavurumcu sanat anlayışı temelinde gerçekleştirilen uygulamalar kapsamında önem kazanmıştır. Beden imgesine sıklıkla başvurulan, farklı teknik ve
uygulama yöntemleri ile ele alınan akımlardan biri Yeni Dışavurumculuk olmuştur. 1970’lerden itibaren Avrupa ve ABD’de yoğun bir uygulama alanı bulan Yeni Dışavurumculuk akımında; özellikle Almanya, İtalya ve Amerika merkezli olarak
beden imgesi, farklı tematik içeriklerin aktarımında kullanılmıştır. Bölgelere bağlı bu değişkenlik durumuna bir temel oluşturmak üzere; beden imgesinin üç önemli merkezde, hangi tematik içeriklerle ve amaçlarla sanatta varlık
gösterdiğini tespit etmeye yönelik bir çalışma önem kazanmıştır. Bu amaçla gerçekleştirilen çalışmada, doküman incelemesi ve literatür taraması yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Yeni Dışavurumculuk akımına yön veren ve Almanya, İtalya, Amerika
merkezli olarak çalışmalarını gerçekleştiren sanatçıların, beden imgesine yer verdikleri eserleri ile bu eserlerine yön veren kavramsal yapılar araştırılmıştır. Elde edilen bulgular paralelinde Yeni Dışavurumculuk bağlamında üç
merkezde bedene atfedilen rol hakkında genelleyici bir yargıya varılmaya çalışılmıştır.
Basic Psychological Needs and Job Satisfactıon of Trainers
Authors: VARDAĞLI Mehmet , ÇANKAYA Soner
Published: November 2021

Bu çalışmanın amacı, Samsun ilinde aktif olarak görev yapmakta olan antrenörlerin temel psikolojik ihtiyaçları ve iş doyum düzeylerinin incelenmesidir. Çalışma, karma araştırma modelinin (nicel-nitel) bir çeşidi olan çeşitleme deseni
türündedir. Çalışmanın nitel bölümünde örneklem grubunu Samsun ilinde aktif olarak görev yapmakta olan 10, nicel bölümde ise 109 antrenör oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada veri toplama aracı olarak, antrenörlerin temel psikolojik ihtiyaçlarını
belirlemek amacıyla Vardağlı ve Çankaya (2020) tarafından hazırlanmış 8 maddelik yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu; iş doyum düzeylerini incelemek amacıyla ise Brayfield ve Rothe (1951) tarafından geliştirilen, Judge, Locke, Durham
ve Kluger (1998) tarafından 5 maddelik kısa formu oluşturulan ve Keser ve Bilir (2019) tarafından Türkçeye uyarlaması yapılan iş tatmini ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Çalışmanın nitel bölümünde elde edilen ses kayıtlarının yazıya dökümü
sağlanmış ve Nvivo programına aktarılarak içerik analiz yöntemi ile çözümlenmiştir. Çalışmanın nicel bölümünde ise tüm istatistiksel hesaplamalar SPSS 22.0 V. istatistik paket programda yapılmıştır.Araştırma bulguları antrenörlerin
sporcularının özgüven, liderlik, iletişim vb. özelliklerinde gelişmeler gözlemlediği, antrenman sürecinde sporcunun sakatlık ve psikolojik durumu gibi hususlara dikkat ettikleri, antrenörlerin genellikle bilgiyi aktarabildiklerini
ancak fiziki koşulların ve malzeme eksikliği durumunun bu süreci olumsuz etkilediği, antrenörlerin kendilerini yenilikçi ve mücadeleci olarak tanımladıkları, çoğu antrenörün başarısızlık durumunda sporculara söz veya mimiklerle
tepkilerini belli ettikleri, antrenörlerin bağımsız karar verememe, yöneticiler tarafından görüşlerinin dikkate alınmaması, teşvik, çalışma koşullarının elverişsiz olması, mesai hakkının verilmemesi, maaşların yetersiz olması şeklinde
karşılaştıkları sorunların kendilerini psikolojik açıdan olumsuz etkilediğini ortaya koymaktadır. Antrenörlerin süreç içerisinde başarı sağlanması hususunda çocukların spora yönlendirilmesi, okullarda spora daha çok yer verilmesi,
antrenörün kendini güncellemesi şeklinde görüş ve önerilerinin olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ayrıca, antrenörlerin çalışma durumu, eğitim durumu, gelir durumu, spor yapma durumuna göre iş tatmini düzeyleri arasında anlamlı bir farklılık
olmadığı; kadın antrenörlerin ve bireysel spor branşına sahip antrenör grubunun iş tatmin düzeylerinin daha yüksek olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Dolayısıyla antrenörlerin yöneticiler tarafından görüşlerinin dikkate alınarak aidiyet
duygusunun oluşturulması ve aynı zamanda çalışma şartlarının ve özlük haklarının iyileştirilerek yeterli düzeyde teşvik edici tedbirler sağlanması önem arz etmektedir.
The Anxiety About Aging Scale: A Validity and Reliability Study with Turkish Menopausal Women
Authors: KALAYCI Işıl
Published: November 2021

Background/aim: This study aimed to explore the validity and reliability of Lasher and Faulkender’s “Anxiety About Aging Scale” developed among premenopausal and postmenopausal Turkish women aged 42-64 years. Materials and methods:
We conducted this descriptive and cross-sectional study employing quantitative data collection techniques within the borders of Turkey and collected the data between May-July, 2020. The sample included 433 women. Ethics Committee
approval was obtained from Süleyman Demirel University Ethical Commissions of Clinical Research (Decision No. 20/292 of 25.09.2020). Results: Scoring received from 11 specialists was assessed to evaluate the scales scope validation
and it was determined that there was agreement between the specialists (Kendall’s W= 0.073). The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin value of 0.795 and Barlett’s test value of (df=120, p<0.001) indicated that the data were sufficient in amount
and suitable for factor analysis. The factor structure of the newly formed 4 sub-dimension scale was tested by confirmatory factor analysis and the structure was confirmed (χ2/df=2.29, root mean square error of approximation=0.088,
comparative fit index=0.96, goodness of fit index=0.9027 and adjusted goodness of fit index=0.91). The Cronbach Alpha coefficient was found to be 0.828 for the total score of the scale. Conclusion: The findings of the present research
show that the revised, multidimensional 16-item AAS is a valid scale and can be used reliably to determine the aging anxiety of Turkish menopausal women who experience various levels of physical, emotional, and social changes.
Determining the aging anxiety of menopausal women is important in terms of guiding them to psychological, social, and health-related support mechanisms in the early period. Since the burden of collecting and interpreting data is
low, this study will contribute to future research on determining aging anxiety in Turkey.
Effect of Cold Storage on the Nutritive and Microbiological Quality of Fermented Soy Drink from Tamarind and Nono
Authors: Adamu B. B. , Ayisa T. T. , Babayi H. , Adebayo A. I.
Published: November 2021

The effect of cold storage on fermented soy drink from tamarind and nono was assessed. Soymilk was produced by milk extraction from whole soybean seeds and pasteurized at 76oC for 30 minutes. The soymilk was divided into two portions. One portion inoculated with tamarind pulp containing 5.3×103 cfu/mL and the other with nono containing 11.6×103 cfu/mL. They were incubated at 42oC for 12 hours, fermentation was harvested by stirring, packaged, refrigerated at 5oC and subjected to microbial analysis using standard method. Preservation of drink by refrigeration method increased the microbial load of sample A from day 0 (8.7×103 cfu/mL) to day 9 (15.0×103 cfu/mL) but decreased on day 12 (11×103 cfu/mL). Similar results were recorded for samples B and C. However, sample A had neither coliform nor fungal growth. Sample A and B had no significant (p>0.05) difference in energy value (41.91±0.89 and 42.50±1.14) but sample C had the highest energy (96.69±2.03- 77.80±1.17), ash (4.10±0.13- 96.69±2.03), crude protein (0.51±0.01- 0.55±0.03), oil extract (3.44±0.17- 3.65±0.15) and NFE (7.61±0.14- 11.16±0.17) but lowest in moisture (79.84±1.07- 80.27±1.30) contents on day 6– 12. However, sample B had high moisture content ranged (84.43±1.17- 87.15±2.3) but lower in other parameters. Statistical analysis for the vitamin C, potassium and calcium of sample’s A, B and C were carried to determine their significant differences. Refrigeration slows down the bacterial activity hence reducing spoilage thus making fermented soy drink a good source of desired protein in Nigeria.
Exponential-Ratio-Type Imputation Class of Estimators using Nonconventional Robust Measures of Dispersions
Authors: Audu Ahmed , Yunusa Mojeed Abiodun , Zoramawa Aminu Bello , Buda Samaila , Kumar Singh Ran Vijay
Published: November 2021

Human-assisted surveys, such as medical and social science surveys, are frequently plagued by non-response or missing observations. Several authors have devised different imputation algorithms to account for missing observations during analyses. Nonetheless, several of these imputation schemes' estimators are based on known auxiliary variable parameters that can be influenced by outliers. In this paper, we suggested new classes of exponential-ratio-type imputation method that uses parameters that are robust against outliers. Using the Taylor series expansion technique, the MSE of the class of estimators presented was derived up to first order approximation. Conditions were also specified for which the new estimators were more efficient than the other estimators studied in the study. The results of numerical examples through simulations revealed that the suggested class of estimators is more efficient.
Anti-bacterial Effect of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts of Onion, Garlic and Cinnamon on Xanthomonas Species
Authors: Hussain Amir , Naqqash Tahir , Hussain Syed Bilal , Shah Shahid Masood , Shabir Ghulam
Published: November 2021

Onion (Allium cepa), garlic (Allium sativum) and cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) are edible herbs but they contain many chemicals which can be used as medicine. These herbs also contain many antibiotic molecules that are capable to inhibit or reduce growth of many types of microbes including bacteria. Due to the development of resistance of bacteria against synthetic antibiotic now there is a need to have natural antibiotic which must be harmless, cheap and easily available. To know the effectiveness of garlic, onion, and cinnamon on disease causing bacteria such as Xanthomonas campestris pv. malvacearum, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, extracts of each sample was made in water and ethanol. Antibacterial potential of plant extracts was observed at two different stages: at the time of inoculation and after growth of pathogen on media. Results showed extracts applied on all the bacteria before growth inhibited maximum bacterial growth as compared to applied after growth. Moreover, cinnamon extract in ethanol effectively control bacterial growth than onion and garlic extracts. Maximum inhibition zone was shown by ethanolic extract of cinnamon before growth of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (7.333 mm), Xanthomonas campestris pv. malvacearum (7.83 mm) and Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri (5.1 mm). After 24 hours, maximum growth of Xanthomonas oryzae and Xanthomonas axonopodis was inhibited by ethanolic extracts of cinnamon (2.82 and 3.35 mm, respectively) while Xanthomonas campestris was inhibited by ethanolic extract of onion (6.55 mm). Extract diluted from 66mg/ml to 0.01mg/ml showed different minimum inhibitory concentration against pathogens. As concentration decreases inhibition of bacteria also decreases. Ethanolic extracts of cinnamon showed maximum MIC against Xanthomonas campestris pv. malvacearum (3.5 mm to 1.5 mm) and Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (5 mm to 2 mm) while for Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri ethanolic extract of garlic (3 mm to 1 mm) was effective ranging between 66mg/ml to 33 mg/ml. This study highlighted that natural products possess ability to inhibit pathogenic bacterial growth and would also be helpful in medicinal field for further study.
Exploring the Major Climate-smart Agricultural Practices for Dry Season Crop Production in Salinity Affected Fallow Land in the Coastal Areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Awal Md. Abdul
Published: November 2021

The landmasses of the coastal areas of Bangladesh still remains under-utilized, thus cropping intensity is much less than the national average. Most areas remain fallow during dry (rabi) season from December to May due to presence of higher concentration of salts in soil and water, and scarcity of suitable irrigation water. Available adaptation options or technologies are not capable to solve these problems at all. Nevertheless, the areas receive a lot of water from monsoon rain, most of that rainwater is drain-out as surface runoff. The present study results suggest that the use of harvested rainwater and conservation agriculture either in combination or alone could mitigate the problem for bringing huge areas under crop cultivation. The public social safety net programmes such as cash-for-work, food-for-work etc. can be deployed for excavating or re-excavating the abandoned coastal ponds, ditches or canals for storing rainwater. Salt-, drought- and/or heat-tolerant crop varieties with short life span can also be cultivated to get the better results. Early plantation or growing crops with early-maturing varieties can ensure safer harvest in ahead of stress arrives. The avenues have immense potential as climate-smart practices for growing crops preferably non-rice crops during dry season in vast fallow land that will not only ensure food security for coastal people but could turn the entire southern Bangladesh as a food surplus zone. The findings refer the broad recommendation, therefore, specific research works based on the locations and resources available are necessary.
The Prevalence, Intensity and Risk Factors of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Outpatients in Bafoussam II, West Region, Cameroon
Authors: Tchinde Yannick Duclair , Abongwa Lem Edith , David Fotsing , Helen Ngum Ntonifor
Published: November 2021

Background: Gastrointestinal parasitic infections remain a public health problem in tropical and subtropical countries. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence and density of gastrointestinal parasites and to identify the risk factors of their transmission.

Methodology: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out from June to October 2020, on outpatients visiting the Djeleng Sub divisional medical centre in Bafoussam II. All consenting participants provided a stool sample and completed an open-ended questionnaire. Stool samples were examined simultaneously as fresh wet mounts, formal-ether concentration technique and modified Zieihl Neelsen staining technique. Data was analysed using SPSS version 20.0.

Results: Results obtained from this study revealed that the overall prevalence and mean intensity of parasite infection was 29.1% (94/323) and 1464±314 ppg respectively. Parasites recovered were: Entamoeba histolytica 54.26% (51/94), Trichomonas intestinalis 21.28% (20/94), Entamoeba coli 19.15% (18/94), Cryptosporidium spp 3.19% (3/94) and Trichuris trichiura 2.13% (2/94). Prevalence was slightly higher in males 31.76% (27/85) than females 28.15% (67/238) and the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.364). The prevalence was higher among individuals aged 21-30 years 35.22% (31/88). Most infected individuals resided in Djemoun 40.0%(4/10) and this prevalence was significant (p=0.025). Hair dressers harboured the highest rate of intestinal parasites 60.0% (6/10) and the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.235). Hand washing practices, washing of fruits, walking bare footed, toilet cleaning, screening of houses, pet possession, and frequency of nail trimming were not identified as risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasitic transmission (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Provision of health education, improving personal and communal hygiene, and community based deworming with addition of antiprotozoal drugs should be of major focus to prevent and control these infections.
Management of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Dumitrache Marieta , Lascu Rodica
Published: November 2021

Management in D.R. through prophylactic treatment (maintaining a glycemic level as close as possible to normal, control hypertension <150/85 mmHg, hyperlipidemia) and curative treatment of D.R. does not cure the disease, but may slow the evolution of D.M. and D.R. AntiVEGF agents are indicated as adjuvant therapy in pan-photocoagulation laser and / or vitrectomy in patients with DR to block angiogenesis by inhibiting VEGF. All antiVEGF agents are an effective treatment for the clinically significant macular edema. Photocoagulation laser is a treatment of choice in preproliferative and proliferative DR and an effective treatment of diabetic macular edema. The indications for laser treatment in diabetic retinopathy are related to the incidence, evolution of neovessels, duration of diabetes, HbA1c level, presence of macular edema, stage of DR. The laser for macular lesions reduces the risk of vision loss in the eyes with incipient and moderate non-proliferative DR and macular edema concomitant; the laser should be applied to all patients with clinically significant macular edema. Vitrectomy in proliferative DR is indicated in vitreous hemorrhage, tractional retinal detachment in order to remove the vitreous hermorrhage and excision of tractional preretinal membranes.
Terahertz Detectors Based on Carbon Nanomaterials
Authors: Jin Meihua , Wang Yingxin , Chai Minqi , Chen Chuanxin , Zhao Ziran , He Tao
Published: November 2021

Various applications of terahertz (THz) radiation and the importance to fundamental science make the development of THz technology one of the key areas in modern applied physics. THz detectors are a key component of THz technology, whose performance determines the application market. One feasible approach to fabricate high performance THz detectors is to utilize carbon nanomaterials, particularly, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene. Their novel thermal, optical, and electronic properties make them promising in the field of THz technology. In this review, based on a brief introduction of the unique properties of graphene and CNTs, the fundamental principles of thermal, electronic, and photonic effects in carbon‐based THz detection are thoroughly discussed, together with the detailed summary of major progresses in the past decades. Finally, the challenges and opportunity of such THz detectors are presented from three aspects of precise preparation of carbon nanomaterials, mechanism of THz detectors and device technology.
An Extra‐Broadband VIS‐NIR Emitting Phosphor toward Multifunctional LED Applications
Authors: Xiao Yu , Xiao Wenge , Wu Dan , Guan Linquan , Luo Min , Sun Ling‐Dong
Published: November 2021

The development of extra‐broadband emitting phosphors is challenging but meaningful work. So far, however, phosphors that can be effectively excited by GaN‐based blue light‐emitting diode (LED) chips and emit from visible (VIS) to near‐infrared (NIR) regions are still rare. Herein, this study designs an extra‐broadband VIS‐NIR emitting phosphor with emission band ranging from 460 nm to 880 nm (bandwidth >400 nm) upon 450 nm excitation, owing to an efficient energy transfer from Ce3+ to the red and NIR emitting Mn2+ ions in Lu2BaAl4SiO12 (LBAS) host. By the analysis of extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra and fluorescence lifetimes, it is demonstrated that the NIR emission most probably originates from those Mn2+ occupying the dodecahedral sites with high symmetry rather than the exchange‐coupled Mn2+‐Mn2+ pairs. Furthermore, two single‐phase phosphor‐converted LEDs are fabricated by combining blue LEDs with LBAS:Ce3+,Mn2+ phosphors, and thanks to the extra‐broadband emission, the resultant devices may realize multifunctional applications, such as in high‐quality general lighting, NIR spectroscopy, and plant growth lighting.
Enabling Distributed Intelligence with Ferroelectric Multifunctionalities
Authors: Yao Kui , Chen Shuting , Lai Szu Cheng , Yousry Yasmin Mohamed
Published: November 2021

Distributed intelligence involving a large number of smart sensors and edge computing are highly demanded under the backdrop of increasing cyber‐physical interactive applications including internet of things. Here, the progresses on ferroelectric materials and their enabled devices promising energy autonomous sensors and smart systems are reviewed, starting with an analysis on the basic characteristics of ferroelectrics, including high dielectric permittivity, switchable spontaneous polarization, piezoelectric, pyroelectric, and bulk photovoltaic effects. As sensors, ferroelectrics can directly convert the stimuli to signals without requiring external power supply in principle. As energy transducers, ferroelectrics can harvest multiple forms of energy with high reliability and durability. As capacitors, ferroelectrics can directly store electrical charges with high power and ability of pulse‐mode signal generation. Nonvolatile memories derived from ferroelectrics are able to realize digital processors and systems with ultralow power consumption, sustainable operation with intermittent power supply, and neuromorphic computing. An emphasis is made on the utilization of the multiple extraordinary functionalities of ferroelectrics to enable material‐critical device innovations. The ferroelectric characteristics and synergistic functionality combinations are invaluable for realizing distributed sensors and smart systems with energy autonomy.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis Post–COVID‐19 Is Not Suggestive of Persistent Central Nervous System Infection
Authors: Schweitzer Finja , Goereci Yasemin , Franke Christiana , Silling Steffi , Bösl Fabian , Maier Franziska , Heger Eva , Deiman Birgit , Prüss Harald , Onur Oezguer A. , Klein Florian , Fink Gereon R. , Di Cristanziano Veronica , Warnke Clemens
Published: November 2021

This study was undertaken to assess whether SARS‐CoV‐2 causes a persistent central nervous system infection. SARS‐CoV‐2–specific antibody index and SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA were studied in cerebrospinal fluid following COVID‐19. Cerebrospinal fluid was assessed between days 1 and 30 (n = 12), between days 31 and 90 (n = 8), or later than 90 days (post–COVID‐19, n = 20) after COVID‐19 diagnosis. SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA was absent in all patients, and in none of the 20 patients with post–COVID‐19 syndrome were intrathecally produced anti–SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies detected. The absence of evidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 in cerebrospinal fluid argues against a persistent central nervous system infection as a cause of neurological or neuropsychiatric post–COVID‐19 syndrome. ANN NEUROL 2022;91:150–157
Synthesis of isoeugenol biobased epoxy polymer by forming α‐hydroxyl ester and degradation studies
Authors: Sivanesan Dharmalingam , Seo Bongkuk , Lim Choong‐Sun , Song Jinyoung , Kim Hyeon‐Gook
Published: November 2021

The synthesis of bio‐based monomers and polymers from renewable feedstock, such as plant biomass, is desirable because of the depletion of fossil fuel resources and the reliance of thermosetting epoxy resin on non‐renewable petrochemical monomers. Despite the excellent polymeric properties of bisphenol‐based epoxy resins, these negatively impact human health. Herein, the synthesis of self‐curable epoxy polymers from the bio‐based material isoeugenol by forming α‐hydroxyl esters is reported. The epoxides are named AB (single epoxide and ester groups) and A2B2 (double epoxide and ester groups), based on the number of active ester and epoxide groups. The materials derived from the bio‐based material, AB and A2B2, were initiated with and without the catalyst N,N′‐dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) and curing agent diaminodiphenylmethane. Without the catalyst, AB and A2B2 self‐polymerized at 247 and 210°C, respectively. Notably, the polymerization temperatures for AB and A2B2 decreased after the addition of DMAP. The self‐cured epoxy resin without the catalyst showed the highest thermal stability and glass transition temperature (Tg = 156°C). Degradation and recovery studies suggested forward that 51% of the material could be recovered and 94% of the polymer could be degraded from the self‐cured A2B2 in 25 wt% NaOH solution.
Fearless but anxious? A systematic review on the utility of fear and anxiety levels to classify subtypes of psychopathy
Authors: Hofmann Miriam J. , Schneider Sabrina , Mokros Andreas
Published: November 2021

Psychopathic traits have been linked to anomalies in experiencing fear and anxiety. It remains unclear, however, to what extent fear and anxiety levels are useful parameters to effectively distinguish between subtypes of psychopathy. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate whether different psychopathic phenotypes (primary and secondary psychopathy) can be delineated based on fear/anxiety levels. To investigate associations between psychopathic traits and conscious experiences of fear and/or anxiety a systematic qualitative review of studies was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. Seventeen studies were included in the review. We found some evidence for attenuated fear/anxiety levels in primary psychopathy. In secondary psychopathy, the experience of fear/anxiety seemed rather intact. Moreover, primary psychopathy might be associated with a more positive appraisal of the conscious feeling of fear. We reason that consciously experienced fear and anxiety are distinctly related to primary and secondary psychopathy. Due to a lack of consistent and comprehensive operationalizations of fear and anxiety, however, conclusions about their potential to differentiate psychopathic subtypes should be drawn with caution.
The relationship between body dysmorphic disorder symptoms and ‘not just right’ experiences in a sample of individuals seeking cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine procedures
Authors: Cerea Silvia , Lovetere Gianmaria , Bottesi Gioia , Sica Claudio , Ghisi Marta
Published: November 2021

Background

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is characterized by concerns for perceived defects in physical appearance that appear to others as mild or unobservable. Individuals with BDD frequently refer concerns with their physical appearance being ‘not right’ (not just right experiences; NJREs), and BDD‐related behaviours may be performed until their appearance is perceived as ‘right’. The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between BDD and NJREs in cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine settings.

Methods

Individuals requesting cosmetic procedures with BDD symptoms (BDD‐symptoms group;n = 24), without BDD symptoms (cosmetic intervention [CI] group;n = 45), and individuals that have never required these procedures (no cosmetic intervention [NCI] group;n = 53) entered the study.

Results

Results showed a greater number of past‐month NJREs, higher NJREs severity, higher drive for thinness, and greater general distress in the BDD‐symptoms group. Pertaining to features associated with NJREs (perfectionism and obsessive–compulsive disorder symptoms) and ED core features, the BDD‐symptoms group scored higher only with respect to NCI. Regression analyses showed that BDD symptoms were predicted by age, NJREs severity, and drive for thinness above and beyond general distress, perfectionism, obsessive–compulsive disorder symptoms, bulimia, and body dissatisfaction related to weight and shape in the BDD‐Symptoms group (in comparison with the CI and NCI groups).

Conclusions

NJREs may represent a potential vulnerability factor for BDD symptoms in cosmetic settings.
Inactivation of Fgf3 and Fgf4 within the Fgf3/Fgf4/Fgf15 gene cluster reveals their redundant requirement for mouse inner ear induction and embryonic survival
Authors: Zelarayan Laura , Vendrell Victor , Domínguez‐Frutos Elena , López‐Hernández Iris , Schimmang‐Alonso Kiril , Alonso María Teresa , Alvarez Yolanda , Maier Hannes , Anderson Matthew J. , Lewandoski Mark , Schimmang Thomas
Published: November 2021

Background

Fibroblast growth factors (Fgfs) are required for survival and organ formation during embryogenesis. Fgfs often execute their functions redundantly. Previous analysis of Fgf3 mutants revealed effects on inner ear formation and embryonic survival with incomplete penetrance.

Results

Here, we show that presence of a neomycin resistance gene (neo) replacing the Fgf3 coding region leads to reduced survival during embryogenesis and an increased penetrance of inner ear defects. Fgf3neo/neo mutants showed reduced expression of Fgf4, which is positioned in close proximity to the Fgf3 locus in the mouse genome. Conditional inactivation of Fgf4 during inner ear development on a Fgf3 null background using Fgf3/4 cis mice revealed a redundant requirement between these Fgfs during otic placode induction. In contrast, inactivation of Fgf3 and Fgf4 in the pharyngeal region where both Fgfs are also co‐expressed using a Foxg1‐Cre driver did not affect development of the pharyngeal arches. However, these mutants showed reduced perinatal survival.

Conclusions

These results highlight the importance of Fgf signaling during development. In particular, different members of the Fgf family act redundantly to guarantee inner ear formation and embryonic survival.
An improved experimental method for simultaneously isolating hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells in mouse liver infected with Echinococcus multilocularis
Authors: Bi Xiaojuan , Yang Ning , Ke Ying , Liu Hui , Ma Wenmei , Fang Bingbing , Sun Li , Li Liang , Lü Guodong , Lin Renyong
Published: November 2021

Background

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a zoonotic disease caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus multilocularis parasitizing in the human liver, causing local pathological changes in the liver and manifesting as hyperplasia, liver fibrosis, atrophy, degeneration, and necrosis. Here, we report a method that can simultaneously isolate hepatocytes and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) from mice infected with Echinococcus multilocularis.

Methods

A mouse model of AE was established. Hepatocytes and HSCs were isolated from mouse liver using a two‐step method combining in situ collagenase perfusion and gradient centrifugation. Expressions of Alb, Desmin, and α‐SMA were detected with immunofluorescence to identify the isolated hepatocytes and HSCs.

Results

The viability and purity of hepatocytes and HSCs both reached 90% or above. For hepatocytes, clear cell boundaries were observed, and the nuclei were round or oval, with clear nucleoli. There was a homogeneous distribution of the hepatocyte marker Alb in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. Lipid droplets and Desmin expression were observed in the cytoplasm of freshly isolated HSCs. During the activation of HSCs, the lipid droplets gradually decreased and disappeared with a high expression of α‐SMA.

Conclusion

Hepatocytes and HSCs are simultaneously isolated. This may provide a research tool to investigate the interaction between hepatocytes and HSCs and to investigate the mechanism of Echinococcus multilocularis infection‐induced liver pathological changes.
Reversing the surface charge of MSC‐derived small extracellular vesicles by εPL‐PEG‐DSPE for enhanced osteoarthritis treatment
Authors: Feng Kai , Xie Xuetao , Yuan Ji , Gong Liangzhi , Zhu Zhaochen , Zhang Juntao , Li Haiyan , Yang Yunlong , Wang Yang
Published: November 2021

Mesenchymal stem cell‐derived small extracellular vesicles (MSC‐sEVs) possess a great therapeutical potential for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment. However, the steric and electrostatic hindrance of cartilage matrix leads to very limited distribution of MSC‐sEVs in cartilage and low bioavailability of MSC‐sEVs after intra‐articular injection. To overcome this, a strategy to reverse the surface charge of MSC‐sEVs by modifying the MSC‐sEVs with a novel cationic amphiphilic macromolecule namely ε‐polylysine‐polyethylene‐distearyl phosphatidylethanolamine (PPD) was developed in this study. Through incubation with 100 μg/ml PPD, positively charged MSC‐sEVs (PPD‐sEVs) were obtained, and the modification process showed nearly no disturbance to the integrity and contents of sEVs and exhibited good stability under the interference of anionic macromolecules. A more effective cellular uptake and homeostasis modulation ability of PPD‐sEVs than unmodified MSC‐sEVs to chondrocytes was demonstrated. More importantly, PPD‐sEVs demonstrated significantly enhanced cartilage uptake, cartilage penetration, and joint retention capacity as compared to MSC‐sEVs. Intra‐articular injection of PPD‐sEVs into a mouse OA model showed significantly improved bioavailability than MSC‐sEVs, which resulted in enhanced therapeutic efficacy with reduced injection frequency. In general, this study provides a facile and effective strategy to improve the intra‐articular bioavailability of MSC‐sEVs and has a great potential to accelerate the clinical practice of MSC‐sEVs based OA therapy.
Association between peri‐implantitis and cardiovascular diseases: A case‐control study
Authors: Wang I‐Ching , Ou Alice , Johnston Jeffery , Giannobile William V. , Yang Bo , Fenno J. Christopher , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: November 2021

Background

This study assesses the association between peri‐implantitis and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Methods

One hundred and twenty‐eight patients with dental implants were recruited to evaluate the prevalence of peri‐implantitis in patients with or without CVD (CVD group, n = 82, control group, n = 46, respectively). Diagnosis of peri‐implantitis followed the 2017 World Workshop guidelines and the severity was defined as mild, moderate, and severe form when the radiographic bone loss (RBL) was <2, 2 to 4, and >4 mm. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to test the association between two diseases.

Results

A trend of higher prevalence of peri‐implantitis defined by detectable RBL beyond the physiologic bone remodeling was found in the CVD group (64.6%) when compared with the controls (56.5%). A significant higher prevalence (48.8%) of moderate to severe peri‐implantitis was identified in CVD compared with controls(30.4%) with a significant crude association between moderate to severe peri‐implantitis and CVD (odds ratio = 2.18, 95% CI, 1.02 to 4.67; P = 0.04). The CVD group had a trend of higher prevalence of deep pockets (≥7 mm) and higher numbers of sites with bleeding on probing  (>66%) when compared with controls (P > 0.05). However, after controlling for multiple confounders including age, hypertension, smoking, family history of heart attack, and periodontitis, the significant association was not found.

Conclusions

CVD group had significantly higher prevalence of moderate to severe peri‐implantitis (RBL ≥2 mm). The association between the two diseases did not exist after controlling multiple confounders for CVD. Future studies with a larger sample size controlling for the patient‐ and implant‐related confounders are needed to better understand the link between peri‐implantitis and CVD.
Eine Schatzkammer der Farben
Authors: Hartmann Horst
Published: November 2021

Die Historische Farbstoffsammlung der Technischen Universität Dresden bietet nicht nur einen reichen Fundus an wissenschafts‐ und kulturhistorischen Dokumenten – ihre Substanzproben sind auch von Bedeutung für die aktuelle Forschung.
Prozesstechnik: Geregelter Gasfluss
Authors: Khafagy Mohammed
Published: November 2021

Mit individuellen Gasregelsystemen fermentieren die biotechnische und pharmazeutische Industrie reproduzierbar. Massendurchflussregler, die auf mehrere Gase zu kalibrieren sind, lassen sich mit allen Komponenten zu anschlussfertigen Boxen kombinieren.
Nachhaltigkeitsziele: Treibhausgasemissionen senken
Authors: Fleßner Timo
Published: November 2021

Beiträge zur nachhaltigen Entwicklung nennt Bayer als zentrale Elemente der Konzernstrategie und Konzernwerte. Ein Beispiel ist der Klimaschutz in der Wirkstoffproduktion.
Wie der Würfel wirkt
Authors: Trauner Florian , Shabaz Muhammad , Didier Dorian
Published: November 2021

Strukturen, die nicht in der Natur vorkommen, inspirieren Chemiker:innen schon immer. So auch der Würfel, der zur Entwicklung eines besonderen Moleküls führte: des Cubans. Welche Synthesen es für Cuban‐Bausteine und deren Funktionalisierung gibt.
Brain responses to glucose ingestion are greater in children than adults and are associated with overweight and obesity
Authors: Ge Brandon B. , Jann Kay , Luo Shan , Yunker Alexandra G. , Jones Sabrina , Angelo Brendan , Alves Jasmin M. , Defendis Alexis , Monterosso John R. , Xiang Anny H. , Page Kathleen A.
Published: November 2021

Objective

This study investigated whether brain regions involved in the regulation of food intake respond differently to glucose ingestion in children and adults and the relationship between brain responses and weight status.

Methods

Data included 87 children (ages 7‐11 years) and 94 adults (ages 18‐35 years) from two cohorts. Healthy weight, overweight, and obesity were defined by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. Brain responses to glucose were determined by measuring cerebral blood flow using arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging in brain regions involved in the regulation of eating behavior.

Results

Children showed significantly larger increases in brain responses to glucose than adults in the dorsal striatum (p < 0.01), insula (p < 0.01), hippocampus (p < 0.01), and dorsal‐lateral prefrontal cortex (p < 0.01). Responses to glucose in the dorsal striatum (odds ratio [OR] = 1.52, 95% CI 1.05‐2.20; p = 0.03), hippocampus (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.02‐2.22; p = 0.04), insula (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.11‐2.42; p = 0.01), and orbitofrontal cortex (OR = 1.63 95% CI: 1.12‐2.39; p = 0.01) were positively associated with overweight or obesity, independent of age group.

Conclusions

Children have greater brain responses to glucose ingestion than adults in regions involved in eating behavior, and these responses are associated with weight status.
Flexural strength of foam‐filled polymer composite sandwich panel with novel M‐shaped core reinforced bynano‐SiO2
Authors: Khaledi Himan , Rostamiyan Yasser
Published: November 2021

Present article has experimentally determined the flexural strength of carbon fiber reinforced polymer sandwich panel reinforced by nano‐SiO2with novel M‐shaped lattice core. For this purpose, a polymer composite sandwich panel with M‐shaped core made of carbon‐epoxy fiber has been fabricated in this experiment. In order to fabricate the sandwich panels, the vacuum assisted resin transfer molding has been used to achieve a laminate without any fault. Afterward, polyurethane foam (PU) has been injected into the core of the sandwich panel. In order to determine the flexural strength of the sandwich panels, they have been subjected to three‐point bending loads. From the results of the study, it was figured out that: a) Adding 1 to 3 wt% of nano‐SiO2into the carbon fiber had the most desirable effects on the enhancement of flexural strength of the sandwich panels. b) PU has improved the flexural strength of sandwich panels. c) The new M‐shaped core can well postpone the buckling and failure of the composite sandwich structures.
Current Concepts on Endothelial Stem Cells Definition, Location, and Markers
Authors: Chambers Sarah E.J. , Pathak Varun , Pedrini Edoardo , Soret Lou , Gendron Nicolas , Guerin Coralie L. , Stitt Alan W. , Smadja David M. , Medina Reinhold J.
Published: November 2021

Ischemic vascular disease is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, and regeneration of blood vessels in perfusion-deficient tissues is a worthwhile therapeutic goal. The idea of delivering endothelial stem/progenitor cells to repair damaged vasculature, reperfuse hypoxic tissue, prevent cell death, and consequently diminish tissue inflammation and fibrosis has a strong scientific basis and clinical value. Various labs have proposed endothelial stem/progenitor cell candidates. This has created confusion, as there are profound differences between these cell definitions based on isolation methodology, characterization, and reparative biology. Here, a stricter definition based on stem cell biology principles is proposed. Although preclinical studies have often been promising, results from clinical trials have been highly contradictory and served to highlight multiple challenges associated with disappointing therapeutic benefit. This article reviews recent accomplishments in the field and discusses current difficulties when developing endothelial stem cell therapies. Emerging evidence that disputes the classic view of the bone marrow as the source for these cells and supports the vascular wall as the niche for these tissue-resident endothelial stem cells is considered. In addition, novel markers to identify endothelial stem cells, including CD157, EPCR, and CD31low VEGFR2low IL33+ Sox9+, are described.
Can a facial action coding system (CatFACS) be used to determine the welfare state of cats with cerebellar hypoplasia?
Authors: Llewelyn Helen , Kiddie Jenna
Published: November 2021

Background

The impaired motor skills of cats living with cerebellar hypoplasia (CH) suggests they would be unable to practice normal behaviour, one of the five welfare needs. This study aimed to explore the use of facial action coding system (CatFACS) as a welfare assessment tool for cats with CH.

Methods

Facial expressions (action units [AUs]) were defined as neutral/positive or negative by recording healthy cats (n = 89) during presumed aversive or relaxed scenarios. CH cats (n = 33) were then filmed and their facial expressions compared to those of the presumed positively‐ and negatively‐valenced healthy cats.

Results

Sixteen negative AUs were defined. CH cats performed more of these than healthy cats (p = 0.023) in the relaxed scenario. There was no difference in AU expression between three levels of CH severity (mild, moderate or severe) (p = 0.461).

Conclusion

Cats perform distinct AUs when experiencing negatively‐valenced arousal, the presence or absence of these AUs could be used to infer the welfare of healthy and CH cats. As there was no difference in AU expression between the three levels of CH severity, the behavioural restrictions CH imposes on cats does not necessarily indicate lower welfare and the reasons why CH cats perform more negatively associated AUs warrant further research.
Einlässe strahlgetriebener Flugzeuge
Authors: Kazula Stefan
Published: November 2021

Für die Entwicklung eines variablen Einlasskonzepts war der aktuelle Stand der Wissenschaft und Technik bezüglich der Einlässe von Flugzeugtriebwerken zu erarbeiten. Dieser beinhaltet die Analyse der für verschiedene Geschwindigkeitsbereiche einsetzbaren Einlasstypen. Zudem wurden die Gestaltung von Pitot-Einlässen sowie Einflüsse auf deren Gestaltung detailliert untersucht. Aus diesen Untersuchungen gehen zahlreiche Vorteile variabler Pitot-Einlässe gegenüber anderen Bauformen für Fluggeschwindigkeiten bis Mach 1,6 hervor. Daraufhin erfolgte die Analyse relevanter existierender Lösungsansätze und potenziell erforderlicher Technologien für variable Pitot-Einlässe. Hierbei wurden unter anderem Ansätze für die Variation der Einlassgeometrie durch Verschieben starrer Komponenten, Verformen des Oberflächenmaterials oder durch Grenzschichtbeeinflussung identifiziert.
Methodik der Konzeptstudie
Authors: Kazula Stefan
Published: November 2021

Für die Konzeptentwicklung war ein konstruktionsmethodischer Ansatz zu erarbeiten, der für diese akademische Konzeptstudie geeignet ist, um die gewünschte Sicherheit und Zuverlässigkeit des Konzepts zu erreichen. Hierfür wurden allgemeine Konstruktionsmethodiken, Methoden für die Entwicklung sicherer und zuverlässiger Produkte sowie der luftfahrtspezifische Sicherheitsprozess detailliert betrachtet. Daraus ergab sich ein Konstruktionsansatz, der auf dem Vorgehen nach VDI-Richtlinie 2221 basiert und durch Methoden der Sicherheits- und Zuverlässigkeitsanalyse nach ARP 4761 ergänzt wurde. Auf diesem fünfphasigen Konstruktionsansatz basiert die anschließend durchgeführte Konzeptstudie.
Parasite DNA detection in water samples enhances crayfish plague monitoring in asymptomatic invasive populations
Authors: Sieber Natalie , Hartikainen Hanna , Krieg Raphael , Zenker Armin , Vorburger Christoph
Published: November 2021

Invasive species can facilitate the spread of pathogens by first providing asymptomatic host reservoirs, and then driving disease outbreaks in native populations through pathogen spillover. An example of this are invasive crayfish species in Europe (Faxonius limosus, Pacifastacus leniusculus, Procambarus clarkii), which carry the deadly plague agent (Aphanomyces astaci). Effective disease management requires comprehensive monitoring, however, pathogen detection in carrier populations with low pathogen prevalence and intensities is challenging. We simultaneously collected and analysed crayfish tissue samples of invasive crayfish populations and water samples to compare A. astaci detection in different sample types using quantitative PCR. Combined, the two sampling methods revealed A. astaci presence with DNA concentrations above limit of detection (LOD; the lowest concentration which can be detected with reasonable certainty) in 13 of 23 invasive crayfish populations. In four additional sites, A. astaci DNA concentrations below LOD were found in water. In four populations only were A. astaci concentrations above LOD detected in both sample types and in three populations in concentrations above LOD in tissue but below LOD in water. The likely reason for these discrepancies is the low A. astaci prevalence and concentration in resistant invasive crayfish, which limit detection reliability. Consistency may be improved by timing surveys with seasonal periods of high A. astaci abundance and by increasing water sampling effort. Considering the ease of collecting eDNA samples, compared to crayfish tissue sampling, eDNA methods would facilitate frequent and comprehensive surveys. However, remaining uncertainties in eDNA-based detection reveal the relevance of combining monitoring tools to improve detection of invasive pathogens and their management.