bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New granular rock-analogue materials for simulation of multi-scale fault and fracture processes
Authors: Massaro L. , Adam J. , Jonade E. , Yamada Y.
Published: December 2021

In this study, we present a new granular rock-analogue material (GRAM) with a dynamic scaling suitable for the simulation of fault and fracture processes in analogue experiments. Dynamically scaled experiments allow the direct comparison of geometrical, kinematical and mechanical processes between model and nature. The geometrical scaling factor defines the model resolution, which depends on the density and cohesive strength ratios of model material and natural rocks. Granular materials such as quartz sands are ideal for the simulation of upper crustal deformation processes as a result of similar nonlinear deformation behaviour of granular flow and brittle rock deformation. We compared the geometrical scaling factor of common analogue materials applied in tectonic models, and identified a gap in model resolution corresponding to the outcrop and structural scale (1–100 m). The proposed GRAM is composed of quartz sand and hemihydrate powder and is suitable to form cohesive aggregates capable of deforming by tensile and shear failure under variable stress conditions. Based on dynamical shear tests, GRAM is characterized by a similar stress–strain curve as dry quartz sand, has a cohesive strength of 7.88 kPa and an average density of 1.36 g cm−3. The derived geometrical scaling factor is 1 cm in model = 10.65 m in nature. For a large-scale test, GRAM material was applied in strike-slip analogue experiments. Early results demonstrate the potential of GRAM to simulate fault and fracture processes, and their interaction in fault zones and damage zones during different stages of fault evolution in dynamically scaled analogue experiments.
School Protests and the Making of the Post-Ottoman Mediterranean: Student Politicization as a Challenge to Italian Colonialism in Rhodes, 1915–1937
Authors: Guidi Andreas
Published: December 2021

Student unrest under Italian rule in Rhodes reveals youth's contribution to the transformation of Mediterranean politics in the 20th century. A condition of possibility for this unrest was the precolonial infrastructure of Rhodes, where new schools emerged in the last decades of Ottoman rule. During the Italian military occupation (1912–23), schools reflected identifications such as Ottoman patriotism and Greek irredentism. Student activism expanded beyond school issues and intersected with Italy's uncertain attitude concerning Rhodes's future, the warfare ravaging the Eastern Mediterranean, and the unmaking of Ottoman authority. Italian governors considered youth politicization to be influenced by elder politicians and limited to communal factionalism. After a decade of reforms under Italian sovereignty following the Treaty of Lausanne (1923), unrest reappeared in the 1930s. Students sympathized with ideas like pro-fascist Zionism and anticolonial Greek nationalism. They addressed issues of loyalty and belonging linked to Italian rule's dilemmas of fascist assimilation and colonial separation. Contrary to the 1910s, the authorities repressed student unrest and admitted that youth politicization was autonomous from the influence of the elders, conflicting with the fascist colonial order. Discussing student activism during this imperial transformation goes beyond narratives centered on state policies or one exclusive confessional group, highlighting interconnections between communal affairs, colonial governance, and regional geopolitics.
In Practice: Teaching Environmental American Studies in a Time of Crisis
Authors: QUINN EITHNE , DEVIENNE ELSA , ROANE J. T. , YOUNG ALEXIS , OKOTH CHRISTINE , WILLS JOHN , HENDERSON FRANCES
Published: December 2021

I have been thinking a lot about environmental pedagogy in American studies, especially since I started teaching a third-year interdisciplinary course, Climate Change & Culture Wars, which focusses on the post-1970s US. I wanted to know more about how others are approaching the topic as we face up to looming climate and ecological collapse. University teachers and learners across disciplines are reckoning with it, but what's going on in American studies in Britain, and what can we learn from each other and from teachers elsewhere? How is the crisis impacting on the framing of our disciplinary fields and how are we incorporating its intellectual and practical demands into pedagogic spaces and syllabi?
‘Winning the Peace’: The Chinese Maritime Customs Service, foreign technocrats, and planning the rehabilitation of post-war China, 1943–1945
Authors: Tao Jiayi
Published: December 2021

Through the lens of the multinational staff of the Chinese Maritime Customs Service (CMCS), this article argues that a technocratic programme of reconstruction evolved in the Nationalist government's wartime efforts on post-war planning, which refashioned a cadre of foreign (semi-)colonial-era experts into technocrats serving a sovereign state. This episode, in which the weakened Customs Service reclaimed its significance for the Chinese state, occurred in China's wartime capital, Chongqing. After the abrogation of the so-called ‘unequal treaties’ with foreign powers in January 1943, China entered a post-treaty era, and the question of retaining long-serving foreign Customs Service employees perplexed Nationalist leaders. Eventually, China's huge post-war need for foreign expertise, networks, and imports led to a moderate staff reorganization of the CMCS, with foreign technocrats being kept on and other bureaucrats either shifted to advisory positions or being forced to retire. Technical expertise provided a new guise for the European and American presence in post-imperialist China. Taking the rehabilitation of coastal lighthouses as an example, this article demonstrates the significance of foreign technocrats to the Chinese state during the last phase of the Sino-Japanese War and in its immediate aftermath. In showing the ambition and preparations of the Nationalist government for a post-war era, this article corrects a narrative of an all-out collapse of the Nationalist government from the mid-1940s. The wartime evolution of the Customs Service further highlights the growing importance of technocrats in the decolonizing world.
The Rhetoric of Hobbes's Translation of Thucydides
Authors: Campbell Chris
Published: December 2021

In several key passages in Thomas Hobbes's understudied translation of Thucydides'sHistory of the Peloponnesian War, Hobbes's Pericles directs audiences to distrust rhetoric in favor of calculative self-interest, inward-focused affective states, and an epistemic reliance on sovereignty. Hobbes's own intervention via his translation of Thucydides involves similar rhetorical moves. By directing readers to learn from Thucydides, Hobbes conceals his own rhetorical appeals in favor of sovereignty while portraying rhetoric undermining sovereignty as manipulative, self-serving, and representative of the entire category of “rhetoric.” Hobbes's double redescription of rhetoric is an important starting point for an early modern project: appeals that justify a desired political order are characterized as “right reason,” “the law of nature,” or “enlightenment,” while rhetoric constituting solidarities or publics outside the desired order is condemned. Hobbes's contribution to this project theorizes rhetoric as a barrier to individual calculations of interest, placing a novel constraint on political life.
A dilemma for reasons additivity
Authors: Keeling Geoff
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a dilemma for the additive model of reasons. Either the model accommodates disjunctive cases in which one ought to perform some act$$\phi $$just in case at least one of two factors obtains, or it accommodates conjunctive cases in which one ought to$$\phi $$just in case both of two factors obtains. The dilemma also arises in a revised additive model that accommodates imprecisely weighted reasons. There exist disjunctive and conjunctive cases. Hence the additive model is extensionally inadequate. The upshot of the dilemma is that one of the most influential accounts of how reasons accrue to determine what we ought to do is flawed.
Eliminating Group Agency
Authors: Moen Lars J. K.
Published: December 2021

Aggregating individuals’ consistent attitudes might produce inconsistent collective attitudes. Some groups therefore need the capacity to form attitudes that are irreducible to those of their members. Such groups, group-agent realists argue, are agents in control of their own attitude formation. In this paper, however, I show how group-agent realism overlooks the important fact that groups consist of strategically interacting agents. Only by eliminating group agency from our social explanations can we see how individuals vote strategically to gain control of their groups and produce collective attitudes we cannot make sense of if we treat groups as agents.
‘Read for Nutrition’ programme improves preschool children’s liking and consumption of target vegetable
Authors: Elrakaiby Maha , Hasnin Saima , Stage Virginia C , Dev Dipti A
Published: December 2021

Objective:

To determine whether the ‘Read for Nutrition’ programme would increase liking and consumption of broccoli (a target vegetable) in preschool children and test acceptability and practicality of the programme.

Design:

Pilot pre-post intervention study, where childcare teachers received training and coaching followed by reading the book ‘Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli’ multiple times with the children during a three-week intervention.

Setting:

Five classrooms of Educare, Lincoln, Nebraska in 2018.

Participants:

Sixty-nine (11 to 16 children per classroom) preschool-aged children and sixteen teachers (minimum, three per classroom).

Results:

Average total consumption of broccoli increased 35 % (0·14 ounces or 0·05th cup) after the ‘Read for Nutrition’ programme (t = 2·66; P = 0·01; 95 % CIs (0·035, 0·246)) for all children. Proportional consumption increased for children who received ≥ five exposures to the book (t46 = 2·77; P = 0·008). Exposures to the book predicted proportional consumption (β = 0·365; P = 0·002). Liking of broccoli increased (W69 = 2·2, P = 0·03) as well. Teachers rated the programme as acceptable, practical and enjoyable to children and to themselves.

Conclusions:

Programmes such as ‘Read for Nutrition’ have the potential to improve children’s vegetable liking and consumption in early care and education settings with only book readings and no exposure to a real vegetable.
Nutritionists as policy advocates: the case of obesity prevention in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Wassef Jacqueline , Champagne François , Farand Lambert
Published: December 2021

Objective:

A core function of the public health nutrition workforce is advocacy. Little is known of the nutritionists’ role in policymaking from a policy process theory perspective. The current study analyses the nutritionists’ role in advocating for a six-year governmental plan on obesity prevention in Quebec, Canada.

Design:

We conducted qualitative research using Quebec’s obesity policy as a case study to understand the role of nutritionists in advocating for obesity prevention policies. A conceptual framework combining the Advocacy Coalition Framework with a political analysis model based on the Theory of the Strategic Actor was developed to analyse the beliefs, interests and strategies of policy actors including nutritionists. Data sources comprised semi-structured open-ended interviews with key policy actors (n 25), including eight nutritionists (32 %) and policy-related documents (n 267). Data analysis involved thematic coding and analysis using NVivo 11 Pro.

Setting:

Quebec, Canada.

Participants:

Key policy actors including nutritionists.

Results:

Nutritionists formed the core of the dominant public health coalition. They advocated for an inter-sectoral governmental plan to prevent obesity through enabling environments. Their advocacy, developed through an iterative process, comprised creating a think tank and reinforcing partnerships with key policy actors, conducting research and developing evidence, communicating policy positions and advocacy materials, participating in deliberative forums and negotiating an agreement with other coalitions in the policy subsystem.

Conclusions:

Nutritionists’ advocacy influenced agenda setting and policy formulation. This research may contribute to empowering the public health nutrition workforce and strengthening its advocacy practices. It informs practitioners and researchers concerned with obesity policy and workforce development.
Birth cohort differences in height, weight and BMI among Indian women aged 15–30 years: analyses based on three cross-sectional surveys
Authors: Deshpande Swapna , Kinnunen Tarja I , Kulathinal Sangita
Published: December 2021

Objective:

To explore long-term trends in height, weight and BMI across birth cohorts among Indian women aged 15–30 years.

Design:

Nationally representative cross-sectional surveys.

Setting:

Data from three National Family Health Surveys were conducted in 1998–1999, 2005–2006 and 2015–2016. Height and weight were modelled jointly, employing a multivariate regression model with age and birth cohorts as explanatory variables. The largest birth cohort (born 1988–1992) was the reference cohort. Stratified analyses by place of residence and by marital status and dichotomised parity were also performed.

Participants:

437 753 non-pregnant women aged 15–30 years.

Results:

The rate of increase in height, weight and BMI differed across birth cohorts. The rate of increase was much lower for height than weight, which was reflected in an increasing trend in BMI across all birth cohorts. In the stratified analyses, increase in height was found to be similar across urban and rural areas. Rural women born in the latest birth cohort (1998–2001) were lighter, whereas urban women were heavier compared to the reference cohort. A relatively larger increase in regression coefficients was observed among women born between 1978 and 1982 compared to women born between 1973 and 1977 when considering unmarried and nulliparous ever-married women and, one cohort later (1983–1987 v. 1978–1982), among parous ever-married women.

Conclusion:

As the rate of increase was much larger for weight than for height, increasing trends in BMI were observed across the birth cohorts. Thus, cohort effects show an important contributory role in explaining increasing trends in BMI among young Indian women.
Where and when are portion sizes larger in young children? An analysis of eating occasion size among 1·5–5-year-olds in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (2008–2017)
Authors: Porter Alice , Toumpakari Zoi , Kipping Ruth , Summerbell Carolyn , Johnson Laura
Published: December 2021

Objective:

To identify eating occasion-level and individual-level factors associated with the consumption of larger portions in young children and estimate their relative importance.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Data from parent-reported 4-d food diaries in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (2008–2017) were analysed. Multilevel models explored variation in eating occasion size (kJ) within (n 48 419 occasions) and between children (n 1962) for all eating occasions. Eating contexts: location, eating companion, watching TV, and sitting at a table and individual characteristics: age, gender, ethnicity and parental socio-economic status were explored as potential correlates of eating occasion size.

Participants:

Children aged 1·5–5 years.

Results:

Median eating occasion size was 657 kJ (IQR 356, 1117). Eating occasion size variation was primarily attributed (90 %) to differences between eating occasions. Most (73 %) eating occasions were consumed at home. In adjusted models, eating occasions in eateries were 377 kJ larger than at home. Eating occasions sitting at a table, v. not, were 197 kJ larger. Eating in childcare, with additional family members and friends, and whilst watching TV were other eating contexts associated with slightly larger eating occasion sizes.

Conclusions:

Eating contexts that vary from one eating occasion to another are more important than demographic characteristics that vary between children in explaining variation in consumed portion sizes in young children. Strategies to promote consumption of age-appropriate portion sizes in young children should be developed, especially in the home environment, in eating contexts such as sitting at the table, eating with others and watching TV.
Electoral campaign contributions: an obstacle to sugary drink industry regulation in Brazil?
Authors: Mariath Aline Brandão , Baraldi Larissa Galastri , Martins Ana Paula Bortoletto
Published: December 2021

Objective:

To assess corporate electoral campaign contributions from industries related to sugary drinks production and the characteristics of the elected officials financed by the sector.

Design:

Cross-sectional analysis of electoral campaign contributions from corporations related to sugary drinks production (sugary drink industries and sugary drink input industries) to candidates to the Chamber of Deputies, Brazil.

Setting:

Elections to the 55th Congress (2015–2019), held in October 2014.

Participants:

Candidates to the Chamber of Deputies, Brazil.

Results:

Forty-nine companies or corporate groups that produce sugary drinks and fifty-two corporations that produce inputs for sugary drinks manufacturing contributed to electoral campaigns of candidates in the 2014 Election. Contributions from this industry sector represented 7·3 % of all corporate contributions and helped finance 11·7 % of the candidates and 46·2 % of the elected officials. The transnationals Ambev and Coca-Cola were the first and second biggest donors, respectively. Revenues mediated by political parties, from sugary drink industries and from corporate members of some industry associations (Abir, Unica and CitrusBR), were more prevalent. Among elected officials, a significant association was found between being financed by the sector and representing the south-east region, having higher education level and referring themselves as being professional politicians. In the multivariate model, financed candidates were 27 % more likely to be elected.

Conclusions:

Corporations related to sugary drinks production have contributed to the electoral campaigns of almost half of the Federal Deputies in Brazil in 2014. This possibly facilitates access to decision-makers and could help buy influence on legislative proposals, including health-related food policies.
The association between an energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index and inflammation in rural and urban Black South Africans
Authors: Ferreira Maylene , Cronjé H Toinét , van Zyl Tertia , Bondonno Nicola , Pieters Marlien
Published: December 2021

Objective:

To quantify the inflammatory potential of the diet of rural and urban Black South Africans using an adapted energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index (AE-DII) and to investigate its relationship with inflammatory and cardio-metabolic disease risk markers. Dietary inflammatory potential has not been investigated in African populations.

Design:

Cross-sectional investigation.

Setting:

Rural and urban sites in the North West province of South Africa.

Participants:

1885 randomly selected, apparently healthy Black South Africans older than 30 years.

Results:

AE-DII scores ranged from –3·71 to +5·08 with a mean of +0·37. AE-DII scores were significantly higher in men (0·47 ± 1·19) than in women (0·32 ± 1·29), and in rural (0·55 ± 1·29) than urban participants (0·21 ± 1·19). Apart from its dietary constituents, AE-DII scores are primarily associated with age, rural–urban status and education. Contrary to the literature, alcohol consumption was positively associated with AE-DII scores. Of the four tested inflammatory and thirteen cardio-metabolic biomarkers, the AE-DII was only significantly negatively associated with albumin and HDL cholesterol, and positively with waist circumference and fasting glucose, upon full adjustment.

Conclusion:

Rural men consumed the most pro-inflammatory diet, and urban women the least pro-inflammatory diet. The diet of the participants was not overtly pro- or anti-inflammatory and was not associated with measured inflammatory markers. The inflammatory potential of alcohol at different levels of intake requires further research. Understanding dietary inflammatory potential in the context of food insecurity, unhealthy lifestyle practices and lack of dietary variety remains limited.
Naldemedine-induced opioid withdrawal syndrome with severe psychiatric symptoms in an advanced cervical cancer patient without brain metastasis
Authors: Ishida Mayumi , Hiraoka Mie , Yaguchi Ayako , Sugano Koji , Adachi Nasako , Itoga Tomoko , Ishiguro Tomohito , Onishi Hideki
Published: December 2021

Objective

Naldemedine, an oral peripheral μ-opioid receptor antagonist, was developed for the treatment of constipation, a side effect of opioid use. Naldemedine is not generally recognized as causing opioid withdrawal in which associated symptoms affecting the central nervous system.

Method

From the series of cancer patients undergoing symptom management, we report a case treated with naldemedine for constipation in relation to the use of opioids for cancer pain and who displayed severe psychological symptoms associated with withdrawal immediately after the use of naldemedine.

Results

The patient was a 36-year-old woman diagnosed with cervical cancer Stage IIB, PS3. When the patient, who was using oxycodone hydrochloride hydrate (80 mg/day) for ileal pain, was started on naldemedine for constipation, she complained of sweating after just 5 min and hallucinations after 1 h. The patient also displayed physical/behavioral abnormalities such as diarrhea and hyperactivity, and psychological abnormalities such as aggression toward staff.

Despite the psychiatric symptoms worsening over time, there were no abnormalities in terms of blood biochemical data, and no brain metastasis was observed on MRI. Based on the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale, these symptoms were judged to indicate opioid withdrawal. Naldemedine was discontinued due to naldemedine-related opioid withdrawal syndrome and, thereafter, the psychiatric symptoms diminished, with no recurrence of similar symptoms observed to date.

Significance of results

If mental and behavioral abnormalities occur in patients receiving naldemedine, it is necessary to consider the possibility of opioid withdrawal syndrome as a differential diagnosis.
Influence of posttreatment irrigation timings and herbicide placement on bermudagrass and goosegrass (Eleusine indica) response to low-dose topramezone and metribuzin programs
Authors: Brewer John R. , Craft Jordan C. , Askew Shawn D.
Published: December 2021

Immediate posttreatment irrigation has been proposed as a method to reduce hybrid bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt Davy] phytotoxicity from topramezone. Immediate irrigation is impractical, because it would take a turfgrass sprayer 10 to 15 min to cover an average golf course fairway or athletic field. There is also insufficient evidence regarding how posttreatment irrigation, immediate or otherwise, influences mature goosegrass [Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.] control from topramezone or low-dose topramezone plus metribuzin programs. We sought to investigate bermudagrass and E. indica response to immediate, 15-min, and 30-min posttreatment irrigation compared with no irrigation following topramezone at 12.3 g ae ha−1, the lowest labeled rate, or topramezone at 6.1 g ha−1 plus metribuzin at 210 g ai ha−1. We also evaluated placement of each herbicide and their combination on soil, foliage, and soil plus foliage to help elucidate the mechanisms involved in differential responses between species and herbicide mixtures. Responses were largely dependent on trial due to bermudagrass injury from high-dose topramezone being nearly eliminated by immediate irrigation in one trial and only slightly affected in another. When posttreatment irrigation was postponed for 15 or 30 min, topramezone alone injured bermudagrass unacceptably in both trials. Bermudagrass was injured less by low-dose topramezone plus metribuzin than by high-dose topramezone. All posttreatment irrigation timings reduced E. indica control compared with no posttreatment irrigation. The herbicide placement study suggested that topramezone control of E. indica is highly dependent on foliar uptake and that phytotoxicity of both bermudagrass and E. indica is greater from topramezone than metribuzin. Thus, posttreatment irrigation likely reduces topramezone rate load with a concomitant effect on plant phytotoxicity of both species. Metribuzin reduced 21-d cumulative clipping weight and tiller production of plants, and this may be a mechanism by which it reduces foliar white discoloration from topramezone.
Hydro‐Morphodynamics of an Open‐Channel Confluence With Bed Discordance at Dynamic Equilibrium
Authors: Canelas Olga B. , Ferreira Rui M. L. , Cardoso António H.
Published: December 2021

This study examines the hydrodynamics and morphodynamics of open‐channel confluences characterized by subcritical flow, low flow discharge ratio, a 90° junction angle and dominant sediment supply coming from the tributary. The analysis is based on a novel data set comprised of the three‐dimensional time‐averaged velocity field, turbulence, bed morphology, and water surface levels acquired under controlled conditions in a laboratory setup. Confluence morphology at equilibrium stage was characterized by moderate bed discordance and pronounced bed erosion at the junction. This study suggests an updated conceptual model of flow hydrodynamics in realistic morphologically stable confluences. The near‐bed flow from the main channel proceeds underneath the tributary inflow into the tributary where it engages in the rotational motion of a strong secondary circulation observed within and downstream of the junction. The high‐speed near‐bed flow intensifies the stretching of the secondary cell past the downstream junction corner where it expands and aligns with slope of the bank‐attached bar. It is argued that the post‐confluence secondary cell is a result of flow separation at the tributary‐mouth bar and of the curvature of the shear layer, configuring a Prandtl’s first kind of helical flow.
Investigating Soil Desiccation Cracking Using an Infrared Thermal Imaging Technique
Authors: Zeng Hao , Tang Chao‐Sheng , Zhu Cheng , Cheng Qing , Lin Zong‐ze , Shi Bin
Published: December 2021

Soil desiccation cracking is of great concern in many fields such as hydrology, geology and agriculture, whereas its multi‐physical governing mechanism remains unclear up to now. As evaporation is a key influencing factor to soil cracking, capturing the evaporation‐induced soil temperature will significantly contribute to the improved understanding of soil cracking behaviors. Infrared thermal imaging enables the surface temperature measurement through converting infrared radiation into visible images, and has not been applied for soil cracking characterizations in the past. In this study, the fundamental mechanisms of soil desiccation cracking are investigated through the combined usage of three noninvasive techniques including infrared thermal imaging, particle image velocimetry, and digital image processing. Experimental results reveal the correlation between the evaporation‐related temperature of soil and its hydro‐mechanical behaviors. The evaporation rate is proportional to the soil‐atmosphere temperature difference. The soil body with a higher water content corresponds to a larger temperature difference, with the more apparent correlation observed in the unsaturated state of soil. Furthermore, as indicated in a nonuniform soil temperature field, the pore water migrates from the soil body with high temperature into the body with low temperature, similar to the soil particle motion under drying. Hence, the soil body with low temperature attracts additional water to maintain a high water content, resulting in a fast evaporation rate and a low temperature field for a long time. The evolution of the desiccation crack network is also related to the temperature distribution. Soil desiccation cracks tend to form in a lower temperature area, whereas the soil body with a higher temperature presents a more remarkable volume shrinkage. Primary cracks (defined as those first to develop and cause the breaking up of the intact material into separate clods) propagate along the isotherm, while the propagation path of secondary cracks (defined as those sub‐cracks initiated from primary cracks and subdivide soil to smaller clods) is first orthogonal to the isotherm and then rotates to gradually overlap with the isotherm. This study highlights the potential application of the infrared thermal imaging technique to investigate the underlying mechanisms of soil‐atmosphere interaction and perform soil desiccation cracking prediction.
A selective CuII complex with 4-fluorophenoxyacetic acid hydrazide and phenanthroline displays DNA-cleaving and pro-apoptotic properties in cancer cells
Authors: Machado Pedro Henrique Alves , Paixão Drielly Aparecida , Lino Ricardo Campos , de Souza Tiago Rodrigues , de Souza Bontempo Nayara Júnia , Sousa Luana Munique , Van Petten de Vasconcelos Azevedo Fernanda , Orsolin Priscila Capelari , Lima Paula Marynella Alves Pereira , Martins Isabella Castro , da Costa Guerra Joyce Ferreira , Teixeira Samuel Cota , Araújo Thaise Gonçalves , Goulart Luiz Ricardo , Morelli Sandra , Guerra Wendell , de Oliveira Júnior Robson José
Published: December 2021

The thin line between efficacy and toxicity has challenged cancer therapy. As copper is an essential micronutrient and is important to tumor biology, CuII complexes emerged as an alternative to chemotherapy; however, its biological properties need to be better understood. Thus, we report in vitro the antitumor effects of two CuII complexes named [Cu(4-fh)(phen)(ClO4)2] (complex 1) and [Cu(4-nh)(phen)(ClO4)2]·H2O (complex 2), in which 4-fh = 4-fluorophenoxyacetic acid hydrazide; 4-nh = 4-nitrobenzoic hydrazide and phen = 1,10-phenanthroline. Both complexes presented cytotoxic activity against tumor cells, but only complex 1 showed significant selectivity. Complex 1 also induced DNA-damage, led to G0/G1 arrest and triggered apoptosis, which was initiated by an autophagy dysfunction. The significant in vitro selectivity and the action mechanism of complex 1 are noteworthy and reveal this prodrug as promising for anticancer therapy.
Active syndromic surveillance of COVID-19 in Israel
Authors: Yom-Tov Elad
Published: December 2021

Syndromic surveillance systems monitor disease indicators to detect emergence of diseases and track their progression. Here, we report on a rapidly deployed active syndromic surveillance system for tracking COVID-19 in Israel. The system was a novel combination of active and passive components: Ads were shown to people searching for COVID-19 symptoms on the Google search engine. Those who clicked on the ads were referred to a chat bot which helped them decide whether they needed urgent medical care. Through its conversion optimization mechanism, the ad system was guided to focus on those people who required such care. Over 6 months, the ads were shown approximately 214,000 times and clicked on 12,000 times, and 722 people were informed they needed urgent care. Click rates on ads and the fraction of people deemed to require urgent care were correlated with the hospitalization rate ($$R^2=0.54$$

R
2

=
0.54

and $$R^2=0.50$$

R
2

=
0.50

, respectively) with a lead time of 9 days. Males and younger people were more likely to use the system, and younger people were more likely to be determined to require urgent care (slope: $$- \,0.009$$

-

0.009

, $$P=0.01$$

P
=
0.01

). Thus, the system can assist in predicting case numbers and hospital load at a significant lead time and, simultaneously, help people determine if they need medical care.
A ratiometric theranostic system for visualization of ONOO− species and reduction of drug-induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Chau Joe H. C. , Zhang Ruoyao , Lee Michelle M. S. , Lam Kristy W. K. , Yu Eric Y. , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: December 2021

A ratiometric theranostic probe, ATV-PPB, is designed to simultaneously visualize and eliminate ONOO−. Red emissive ATV-PPB originally on mitochondria is transformed to green emissive ATV-Py and translocated to lipid droplets after cleavage by ONOO−.
In situ observation of heterogeneous catalytic organic reactions via aggregation-induced emission luminogens
Authors: Ji Jinzhao , Yuan Jinying , Wei Yen
Published: December 2021

A customized aggregation-induced emission luminogen allows the direct visualization of catalytic retro-Diels–Alder reaction and catalyst screening.
Pt(iv) antitumor prodrugs: dogmas, paradigms, and realities
Authors: Ravera Mauro , Gabano Elisabetta , McGlinchey Michael J. , Osella Domenico
Published: December 2021

Pt(IV) complexes are promising antitumor prodrugs releasing active Pt(II) moieties. Multi-functional Pt(IV) complexes contain two or more synergistic moieties. Many Pt(IV) prodrugs show encouraging pharmacological profiles.
Assessment of hydrogen bond strengths and cooperativity in self- and cross-associating cyclic (HF)m(H2O)n(m+n= 2 to 8) clusters
Authors: Patkar Deepak , Ahirwar Mini Bharati , Shrivastava Satya Prakash , Deshmukh Milind M.
Published: December 2021

In this work, we investigated the strengths of various self- and cross-associating hydrogen bonds (HBs) in mixed hydrogen fluoride–water cyclic (HF)m(H2O)n(m+n= 2 to 8) clusters, employing a molecular tailoring approach (MTA)-based method.
Development of poly(vinyl alcohol)/chitosan/aloe vera gel electrospun composite nanofibers as a novel sorbent for thin-film micro-extraction of pesticides in water and food samples followed by HPLC-UV analysis
Authors: Hejabri Kandeh Saeed , Amini Shima , Ebrahimzadeh Homeira
Published: December 2021

Schematic presentation of applying PVA/CA/CS/AV composite nanofibers as the extraction phase in thin-film micro-extraction (TFME) of six pesticide compounds prior to HPLC-UV analysis.
Ultrasensitive and highly stretchable fibers with dual conductive microstructural sheaths for human motion and micro vibration sensing
Authors: Xiao Jieyu , Xiong Yan , Chen Juan , Zhao Shanshan , Chen Shangbi , Xu Banglian , Sheng Bin
Published: December 2021

Conductive and stretchable fibers are important components of the increasingly popular wearable electronic devices as they meet the design requirements of excellent electrical conductivity, stretchability, and wearability.
Two luminescent film sensors constructed from new lanthanide coordination polymers for ratiometric detection of Zn2+ and NH3 in water and their white emission properties
Authors: Wang Hui , Li Xuan , Cheng Hao , Li Ya-Jun , Song Xue-Qin , Wang Li
Published: December 2021

Two luminescent film sensors constructed from new lanthanide coordination polymers based on a new tetra-monodentated ligand for ratiometric detection of Zn2+ and NH3 in water were developed.
Regio- and stereo-selective olefinic C–H functionalization of aryl alkenes in ethanol
Authors: Shen Cong , Zhu Yuhang , Jin Shuqi , Xu Kejie , Luo Shuxin , Xu Lixia , Zhong Guofu , Zhong Liangjun , Zhang Jian
Published: December 2021

We report on α- and β-olefinic C–H alkenylation of 2-alkenyl benzylamine/benzoic acid derivatives in ethanol to afford aryl dienes/trienes with excellent selectivities, proceeding through 6-/7-membered exo-/endo-cyclometallation.
Online Simulation Education for Audiometry Training
Authors: Calandruccio Lauren , Weidman Daniel
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of this clinical focus article was to describe a new online simulation program for pure-tone audiometry.

Method:

Fictional but realistic patient profiles and testing environments were created to teach students about hearing screening protocols and pure-tone audiology. The diversity of the demographics of the United States is represented throughout the program. The web app was created using HTML/JS/CSS with a Flask server backend and MySQL database.

Results:

The program allows students to learn the process of conducting a hearing screening and measuring audiometric thresholds using a web-based virtual clinical audiometer. The virtual audiometer includes standard audiometer features and allows for instruction based on standard guidelines. The diversity of the patients within the simulation program allows for discussions of diversity to be woven throughout the curriculum.

Conclusions:

The new simulation program is designed for use as a clinical training tool enabling undergraduate and graduate students to actively participate in hearing screening testing and pure-tone audiometry using any web browser. The program is also designed with the intent to improve pedagogical outcomes at the undergraduate and graduate level for communication sciences and disorders education for pure-tone audiometry by providing instructors with content that focuses on the diversity that is represented in the demographics of the United States.
Radio-γ-ray response in blazars as a signature of adiabatic blob expansion
Authors: Tramacere A. , Sliusar V. , Walter R. , Jurysek J. , Balbo M.
Published: December 2021

Context. Multi-wavelength light curves in long-term campaigns show that, for several blazars, the radio emission occurs with a significant delay with respect to the γ-ray band, with timescales ranging from weeks to years. Such observational evidence has long been a matter of debate, and is usually interpreted as a signature of the γ-ray emission originating upstream in the jet, with the emitting region becoming radio transparent at larger scales.

Aims. In this paper, we show, by means of self-consistent numerical modelling, that the adiabatic expansion of a relativistic blob can explain these delays, reproducing lags compatible with the observed timescales.

Methods. We use the JetSeT framework to reproduce the numerical modelling of the radiative and accelerative processes, reproducing the temporal evolution of a single blob, from the initial flaring activity and the subsequent expansion. We follow the spectral evolution and the corresponding light curves, investigating the relations among the observed parameters, rise time, delay, and decay time, and we identify the link with physical parameters.

Results. We find that, when adiabatic expansion is active, lags due to the shift of the synchrotron frequency occur. The corresponding time lags have an offset equal to the distance in time between the flaring onset and the beginning of the expansion, whilst the rising and decaying timescales depend on the velocity of the expansion and on the time required for the source to exhibit a synchrotron self-absorption frequency below the relevant radio spectral window. We derive an inter-band response function, embedding the aforementioned parameters, and we investigate the effects of the competitions between radiative and adiabatic cooling timescales on the response. We apply the response function to long-term radio and γ-ray light curves of Mrk 421, Mrk 501, and 3C 273, finding satisfactory agreement on the log-term behaviour, and we use a Monte Carlo Markov chain approach to estimate some relevant physical parameters. We discuss applications of the presented analysis to polarization measurements and to jet collimation profile kinematics. The collimation profiles observed in radio images are in agreement with the prediction from our model.
Application of Photoacoustic Imaging for Lymphedema Treatment
Authors: Suzuki Yushi , Kajita Hiroki , Watanabe Shiho , Okabe Keisuke , Sakuma Hisashi , Imanishi Nobuaki , Aiso Sadakazu , Kishi Kazuo
Published: December 2021

Background Lymphatic vessels are difficult to identify using existing modalities as because of their small diameter and the transparency of the lymph fluid flowing through them.

Methods Here, we introduce photoacoustic lymphangiography (PAL), a new modality widely used for lymphedema treatment, to observe limb lymphatic vessels. The photoacoustic imaging system used in this study can simultaneously visualize lymphatic vessels and veins with a high resolution (0.2 mm) and can also observe their three-dimensional relationship with each other.

Results High-resolution images of the lymphatic vessels, detailed structure of the dermal back flow, and the three-dimensional positional relationship between the lymphatic vessels and veins were observed by PAL.

Conclusion The clear image provided by PAL could have a major application in pre- and postoperative use during lymphaticovenular anastomosis for lymphedema treatment.
Volar Lunate Facet Rim Fractures: K-I Classification and Technique
Authors: Imatani Junya , Kondo Hidenori
Published: December 2021

Background and Purpose It is difficult to capture and safely support a small volar lunate facet (VLF) fragment and obtain sufficient initial fixation. The challenge in treating VLF rim fractures has resulted in various management options. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes of a consecutive series of VLF rim fractures of the distal radius treated surgically and to report the Kondo–Imatani (K-I) classification of these fractures, using computed tomography (CT) images and surgical technique, which is termed the Plate buttress and Double tiered subchondral support (PD) technique.

Patients and Methods A retrospective review was conducted on 35 patients with VLF rim fractures that included postoperative clinical evaluations, CT images, and radiographs.

Description of Technique The PD technique to stabilize the VLF fragment with an anatomical and low-profile volar locking plate (VLP).

Results All fractures healed at the final follow-up; Mayo wrist performance score average was 81.7 points (45–100), and the quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (quick-DASH) score average was 9.5 points (0–31.8), showing relatively good clinical results.

Conclusion VLF rim fragments are not amenable to standard VLP fixation. Unstable fixation may result in postoperative correction loss, aseptic necrosis, malunion, radiocarpal subluxation, and wrist dysfunction. This report described the K-I classification for VLF rim fractures of the distal radius and surgical technique, termed the PD technique, to stabilize the VLF rim fragment with an anatomical and low-profile VLP.

Level of Evidence This is a Level IV, case series study.
Hair Cosmetics for the Hair Loss Patient
Authors: Dias Maria Fernanda Reis Gavazzoni , Loures Aline Falci , Ekelem Chloe
Published: December 2021

Medical professionals that treat patients with alopecia usually lack knowledge about hair cosmetics. Trichologists focus on hair cycling and growth problems and not on the hair shaft integrity. This may lead to abandon of the use of the prescribed treatment, such as topical minoxidil or to inadequate traumatic grooming habits that may jeopardize hair follicle health. Shampoos, hair dyes, and hair-straightening products may alter hair fiber structure, remove lipids, and elude protein. Hair procedures such as hair dying and straightening have side effects and health concerns, especially for pregnant women or sensitive hair and scalp patients. Hair breakage, follicle traction, frizz, contact dermatitis, and mutagenicity are possible side effects of hair cosmetics misuse. The proper use of hair care products may help to increase patients' adherence to alopecia treatments and avoid health problems related to inadequate application of hair cosmetics and procedures.
Role of Hair Transplantation in Scarring Alopecia—To Do or Not to Do
Authors: Singh Sukhbir , Muthuvel Kumaresan
Published: December 2021

Alopecia in the scalp region leads to psychosocial embarrassment for an individual. Alopecia could be due to several reasons, including genetic, hormonal, traumatic and infections. Cicatricial alopecias (CAs) are considered as trichological emergency, since their progression is rapid and always results in permanent hair loss. The pathogenesis, disease progression and prognosis of CA are poorly understood, and the treatment process is still evolving. An early diagnosis must be established, and aggressive treatment protocol should be followed in the management of scarring alopecia. This article presents various aspects of CA and determines whether hair transplant (HT) should be done in this condition.
Role of Circulating Microparticles in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Implications for Pathological Clotting
Authors: Maphumulo Siphosethu Cassandra , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: December 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial chronic metabolic disease characterized by chronic hyperglycemia due to insulin resistance and a deficiency in insulin secretion. The global diabetes pandemic relates primarily to T2DM, which is the most prevalent form of diabetes, accounting for over 90% of all cases. Chronic low-grade inflammation, triggered by numerous risk factors, and the chronic activation of the immune system are prominent features of T2DM. Here we highlight the role of blood cells (platelets, and red and white blood cells) and vascular endothelial cells as drivers of systemic inflammation in T2DM. In addition, we discuss the role of microparticles (MPs) in systemic inflammation and hypercoagulation. Although once seen as inert by-products of cell activation or destruction, MPs are now considered to be a disseminated storage pool of bioactive effectors of thrombosis, inflammation, and vascular function. They have been identified to circulate at elevated levels in the bloodstream of individuals with increased risk of atherothrombosis or cardiovascular disease, two significant hallmark conditions of T2DM. There is also general evidence that MPs activate blood cells, express proinflammatory and coagulant effects, interact directly with cell receptors, and transfer biological material. MPs are considered major players in the pathogenesis of many systemic inflammatory diseases and may be potentially useful biomarkers of disease activity and may not only be of prognostic value but may act as novel therapeutic targets.
A Comparative Study of Different Doses of Lignocaine on Prevention of Etomidate Induced Myoclonus during Induction of Anesthesia
Authors: Jayasingh Sarat Chandra , Nanda Sikata , Mohanty Ramakanta , Routray Sidharth S. , Dalai Issan C.
Published: December 2021

Background and Aims Etomidate, an intravenous (IV) induction agent known for its stable myocardial action, can produce myoclonus which can be detrimental for the cardiac patients. Though lignocaine has proven its efficacy in attenuating the etomidate-induced myoclonus, the ideal dose of lignocaine is not known. The aim of our trial was to analyze two different doses of lignocaine on the occurrence and intensity of etomidate induced myoclonus.

Materials and Methods A total of 120 patients were randomly assigned into three groups of 40 each. Patients in group A were injected lignocaine 0.5 mg/kg intravenously, group-B patients were injected lignocaine 1 mg/kg intravenously, and group-C patients were injected saline placebo. After 2 minutes, anesthesia was induced with 0.3 mg/kg of etomidate over 30 seconds. The patients were assessed for myoclonus using clinical severity scoring system during first 2 minutes of induction. Our primary outcome was the incidence of myoclonus. The severity of myoclonus and adverse effects were the secondary outcomes.

Results No remarkable variation was found regarding demographic profile among three groups. Incidence of myoclonus in groups A and B was 35% and in group C was 98%, the difference being statistically significant. Both doses of lignocaine reduced the severity of myoclonus up to same extent.

Conclusion Pretreatment with IV lignocaine 0.5mg/kg and 1 mg/kg IV remarkably decreased the occurrence and severity of myoclonus induced by etomidate up to same extent.