bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of hyperspectral imaging and mass spectrometry imaging technique to fingerprint visualization and trace analysis
Authors: Xu Jing-Yang , Fang Shao-Bo , Zhou Jing ,   Key Labortory of Drug Preventation and Control Technology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310053, China,   Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China,   Department of Chemial Engineering, Massachusettes Institute of Technology, MA 02139, USA,   School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
Published: December 2020

Developing on advanced light sources, especially those applied in the areas of spectral imaging and mass spectrometry imaging, has made the trace analysis feasible and more reliable. These techniques show great potentials in various fields including forensic science, environment, food, pharmaceuticals, archaeology, etc. In many cases of trace analysis, it is expected to obtain both the spatial distributions and chemical compositions of the target objects. Through the combination of imaging technology with optical spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, it is possible to detect the trace chemicals on the surface of various materials as well as their spatial distributions, thus improving the accuracy of detection and the range of application. Moreover, trace analysis based on such methods can reduce or even avoid the use of special chemical reagents, and is compatible with the traditional chemical detection methods. In the paper, we focus on fingerprint visualization and analysis, as a typical trace analysis issue, to discuss the recent progress of the applicable chemical imaging technologies based on the advanced light sources. The effect of latent fingerprint development depends on not only features of fingerprint carrying object, but also the characteristics of fingerprint residues. In this paper, we provide an overview of two technical approaches: specific component targeted chemical imaging and nondirective chemical imaging. We describe the major technologies involved in this field, including visible-near infrared chemical imaging, mid-infrared chemical imaging, Raman imaging, and mass spectrometry imaging.
Urban Operating Systems
Authors: Luque-Ayala Andrés , Marvin Simon
Published: December 2020

A new wave of enthusiasm for smart cities, urban data, and the Internet of Things has created the impression that computation can solve almost any urban problem. Subjecting this claim to critical scrutiny, in this book, Andrés Luque-Ayala and Simon Marvin examine the cultural, historical, and contemporary contexts in which urban computational logics have emerged. They consider the rationalities and techniques that constitute emerging computational forms of urbanization, including work on digital urbanism, smart cities, and, more recently, platform urbanism. They explore the modest potentials and serious contradictions of reconfiguring urban life, city services, and urban-networked infrastructure through computational operating systems—an urban OS.

Luque-Ayala and Marvin argue that in order to understand how digital technologies transform and shape the city, it is necessary to analyze the underlying computational logics themselves. Drawing on fieldwork that stretches across eleven cities in American, European, and Asian contexts, they investigate how digital products, services, and ecosystems are reshaping the ways in which the city is imagined, known, and governed. They discuss the reconstitution of the contemporary city through digital technologies, practices, and techniques, including data-driven governance, predictive analytics, digital mapping, urban sensing, digitally enabled control rooms, civic hacking, and open data narratives. Focusing on the relationship between the emerging operating systems of the city and their traditional infrastructures, they shed light on the political implications of using computer technologies to understand and generate new urban spaces and flows.

The open access edition of this book was made possible by generous funding from Arcadia – a charitable fund of Lisbet Rausing and Peter Baldwin.
HEALING OF A TRAUMATIC WOUND WITH HERBO-MEDICINAL OINTMENT; MARHAM-E-RAAL: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Alam Saiyad Shah , Ahmad Waseem , Rizwanullah Md , Muzammil Mohammad
Published: December 2020

Introduction: A wound can be defined as the discontinuity in skin or mucus membrane. Healing is nothing but neogranulation in the depth and neo-epithelialization at the edges of the wound which ultimately results in the complete repair of such discontinuity. This case report deals with a patient of traumatic large wound at the heel who receives Unani management for wound healing. He was diagnosed as avulsion of pad of right heel with type-II diabetes mellitus. The treatment plan included mechanical debridement, cleaning with solution of alum powder (Sufuf-e-zaaj/alusol) and dressing with Marham-e-raal. The patient was advised to continue oral hypoglycemic agent with subcutaneous injection of insulin. On 85th day of treatment, the wound was healed by almost 98% and on subsequent 1st and 2nd follow up, each with a gap of 15 days, no recurrence of wound was recorded. Methodology: A male patient of traumatic wound was taken into study and given Unani management plan which included debridement, cleaning and washing with solution of Alum powder (Alusol)/ or, in Unani, Sufuf-e-zaaj and dressing of the wound with Marham-e-raal with full aseptic precautions for a period of about 3 months. Discussion: Wound healing is credited to muhallil(anti-inflammatory), daf’eta’ffun (antimicrobial), mujaffif (desiccant) and mundamil (wound healing) properties of Marham-e-raal due to presence of several phytoconstituents like camphor, linalool, borneol, cineole, terpenoids, Bergenin, Phenols and flavonoids, hopeaphenol, Oligostilbenoids, Monoterpenes, kaempferol, Quercetin and Catechin. Result: The wound completely healed at the end of 3 months with no recurrence noted on the 15th day of follow up after complete healing.
Comparative Study of Chemical Composition of Three Different Eggplant	Fruit Species
Authors: Benjamin Amadi , Winner Kanu , Constance Nwadike , Ahamefula Ezekwe , Ijeoma Eboagwu , Chimaraoke Onyeabo , Nchekwube Onuoha
Published: December 2020

Chemical composition of three different eggplant fruit species was studied using standard methods. Solanum aethiopicum, Solanum melongena and Solanum macrocarpon fruit species were used as samples. Results obtained showed high moisture, phytate and oxalate contents in the investigated fruit species. Vitamin concentrations of the investigated fruits ranged from high to low. One or two of the investigated fruits possessed a higher amount of the chemical compounds than others. This study has shown the comparative study of the chemical composition of three different eggplant fruit species.
Spontaneous Pregnancy after Bilateral Tubal Ligation: A Rare Occurance
Authors: Tunau K. , Bello S. , Panti A. , Alabi S.
Published: December 2020

Bilateral tubal ligation is a form of female sterilization. It is the most commonly used method of family planning worldwide and it is a permanent method of fertility control. However the failure rate is 0.1 – 0.8%.

A case report of a booked Gravida 5, Para 3+1, Alive 3 who had two previous Caesarean Sections and a previous Uterine Rupture is presented. She had a Bilateral Tubal Ligation (BTL) performed. She however presented six years after this with a spontaneous pregnancy. She presented in the first trimester, the pregnancy was followed up and she eventually had elective caesarean section and repeat bilateral tubal ligation.
Ten best practices for taking experiential learning online
Authors: Cridland Caitlin , Drape Tiffany , Marine Sasha , Gillaspy Glenda
Published: December 2020

Like many institutions around the world, the COVID‐19 pandemic prompted us to shift our summer 2020 in‐person undergraduate experiential learning program to a remote, virtual format. Here, we present our observations, summarized in 10 best practices, for moving a STEM‐focused research experience for undergraduates, experiential learning program or research‐based course online. We will also discuss how our program was originally designed and implemented, and how we adapted our activities to deliver an at‐home research experience that maintained student engagement, mentorship, and a shared sense of community.
Mild hypothermia improves brain injury in rats with intracerebral hemorrhage by inhibiting IRAK2/NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Shi Hui , Su Zulu , Su Hai , Chen Hao , Zhang Yi , Cheng Yuan
Published: December 2020

Objective

To explore the effect of mild hypothermia on nerve injury by establishing a rat model of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and to clarify the specific molecular mechanism of mild hypothermia in improving brain injury in ICH rats.

Methods

The rat model of ICH was established by collagenase injection. The neurological deficit score (NDS), brain tissue water detection, and Nissl staining were applied to detect the degree of brain injury. ELISA was used to analyze the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and serum nerve injury indexes. Flow cytometry and Western Blot were used to detect neuronal apoptosis.

Results

Mild hypothermia treatment significantly improved the brain injury of the ICH rats and down‐regulated the inflammatory response and oxidative stress in the brain tissue. Moreover, mild hypothermia also effectively inhibited IRAK2/NF‐κB signaling pathway and thus affect neuronal apoptosis.

Conclusion

Mild hypothermia alleviates inflammatory response and neuronal apoptosis by inhibiting IRAK2/NF‐κB signaling pathway in the ICH rats thus improving brain injury.
Capacity building for cancer prevention and early detection in the Ugandan primary healthcare facilities: Working toward reducing the unmet needs of cancer control services
Authors: Jatho Alfred , Mugisha Noleb M. , Kafeero James , Holoya George , Okuku Fred , Niyonzima Nixon , Orem Jackson
Published: December 2020

Background

In 2018, approximately 60,000 Ugandans were estimated to be suffering from cancer. It was also reported that only 5% of cancer patients access cancer care and 77% present with late‐stage cancer coupled with low level of cancer health literacy in the population despite a wide coverage of primary healthcare facilities in Uganda. We aimed to contribute to reducing the unmet needs of cancer prevention and early detection services in Uganda through capacity building.

Methods

In 2017, we conducted two national and six regional cancer control stakeholders’ consultative meetings. In 2017 and 2018, we trained district primary healthcare teams on cancer prevention and early detection. We also developed cancer information materials for health workers and communities and conducted a follow‐up after the training.

Results

A total of 488 primary healthcare workers from 118 districts were trained. Forty‐six health workers in the pilot East‐central subregion were further trained in cervical, breast, and prostate cancer early detection (screening and early diagnosis) techniques. A total of 32,800 cancer information, education and communication materials; breast, cervical, prostate childhood and general cancer information booklets; health education guide, community cancer information flipcharts for village health teams and referral guidelines for suspected cancer were developed and distributed to 122 districts. Also, 16 public and private‐not‐for‐profit regional hospitals, and one training institution received these materials. Audiovisual clips on breast, cervical, and prostate cancer were developed for mass and social media dissemination. A follow‐up after six months to one year indicated that 75% of the districts had implemented at least one of the agreed actions proposed during the training.

Conclusions

In Uganda, the unmet needs for cancer control services are enormous. However, building the capacity of primary healthcare workers to integrate prevention and early detection of cancer into primary health care based on low‐cost options for low‐income countries could contribute to reducing the unmet needs of cancer prevention and early detection in Uganda.
Am I an activist, a volunteer, both, or neither? A study of role‐identity profiles and their correlates among citizens engaged with equality and social justice issues
Authors: Zlobina Anna , Dávila María Celeste , Mitina Olga V.
Published: December 2020

Activism and volunteering are two noticeable forms of social participation. Although some researchers consider them similar, others affirm that they differ in their frames (charity versus change), effects (cohesion versus tension), social representations, and also in their psychosocial correlates. Drawing on role‐identity theory, this study based on an on‐line survey explores the extent to which individuals (N = 270) engaged in activities focused on social justice and equality issues, self‐identify as activists and as volunteers. We predicted and found that based on prioritised goals, and ideological, motivational, or dispositional correlates activist role‐identity can be characterised as ‘system‐challenger’ and ‘true‐to‐the‐self’; meanwhile, volunteer role‐identity can be described as showing a ‘system‐fitting’ pattern. Cluster and subsequent discriminant analyses allowed us to study the variety of role‐identity profiles, and to differentiate five forms of engagement in terms of role‐identity and psychosocial variables that explain belonging to one or another type. These were ‘activists’, ‘volunteers’, ‘highly identified’, ‘undefined’, and ‘low role‐identity’. We did not find psychosocial evidence about the existence of the ‘transformative volunteers’ profile, suggested by some researchers and other studies. We rely on the identity and identity process theories in order to frame the study and interpret the results. Possible practical implications are discussed.
Exploitation of Intrinsic Confinement Effects of MOFs in Catalysis
Authors: Hemmer Karina , Cokoja Mirza , Fischer Roland A.
Published: December 2020

In catalysis research the design of bio‐inspired,'artificial enzymes‘ is a field of huge interest. These catalysts are distinguished by their high catalytic efficiency resulting from a close proximity of several active sites and secondary substrate‐catalyst interactions enabled by functional groups in the catalytic pocket. A class of materials which meets these requirements are metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). Here, the pores confine a reaction environment where several functionalities can be incorporated and spatially positioned in a tunable fashion. Recently, a number of reports revealed the importance of such confinement effects for the control of catalytic activity and selectivity by exploiting the intrinsic properties like pore size and neighboring group effects and the alignment and distance of different active sites within one MOF pore. Thus, this concept aims to accentuate the potential of the exploitation of those effects in MOFs for the design of sophisticated catalysts.
Revealing the Specific Spatial Confinement in 8‐membered Ring Cage‐type Molecular Sieves via Solid‐state NMR and Theoretical Calculations
Authors: Lou Caiyi , Zhang Wenna , Ma Chao , Fan Benhan , Xu Shutao , Gao Shushu , Guo Peng , Wei Yingxu , Liu Zhongmin
Published: December 2020

Spatial confinement plays a significant role in selective adsorption and catalysis of molecular sieves. In this work, the adsorption behaviors of methanol in 8‐membered ring cage‐type molecular sieves DNL‐6 and SAPO‐42 were investigated by13C solid‐state NMR (ssNMR) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Confinement‐induced spatial orientation of guest molecules in molecular sieves was revealed with considering both confined space and active centers. Confined space of double 8‐membered rings (D8R) in DNL‐6 favors the adsorption of methanol, accompanied by the methyl groups orientating to D8R space and the hydroxyl groups of methanol anchored by Brønsted acid site (BAS).
Computing Mass Transfer at Deformable Bubbles for High Schmidt Numbers
Authors: Weiner Andre , Gründing Dirk , Bothe Dieter
Published: December 2020

The occurrence of extremely thin liquid‐sided concentration boundary layers at bubble or droplet interfaces for realistic, i.e., high Schmidt numbers is a severe obstacle for the numerical simulation of mass transfer processes in gas‐liquid systems. This contribution provides a survey of different approaches to overcome this problem, with the main emphasis put on the approach introduced and further developed by the authors. This approach employs a nonlinear flux computation and is based on the modeling of subgrid‐scale concentration profiles. Based on the latest developments, recommendations for future research are also provided.
Dealing with noise in crowdsourced GPS human trajectory logging data
Authors: Adhinugraha Kiki , Rahayu Wenny , Hara Takahiro , Taniar David
Published: December 2020

As a crowdsourcing map platform, OpenStreetMap (OSM) relies on public contributions to enhance its dataset where the contributors can create, modify or remove features from the maps or share their trajectory trips in the repository. The majority of the data provided in a crowdsourcing platform are manually created and reviewed to suit real‐world conditions, hence human perception is the key indicator to consider the correctness of the data. One of the data that is provided by crowdsourcing platform is public trajectory. Public trajectory data contains details of historical trips obtained from contributors' GPS logger devices that are embedded in mobile devices, wearable devices, satnavs, or vehicle GPS trackers to record the user's trajectory path. While public trajectory data can be used as an alternate data source for human movement analysis, this crowdsourced dataset is also prone to noise and inaccuracy which makes the preprocessing step an important phase prior of any processing step. In this article, we discuss the characteristics and the most common noise from crowdsourcing GPS trajectories and utilize a non‐map‐matching approach convex hull‐based reduction method to minimize spike noise, followed by granularity reduction to reduce the number of trajectory points while maintaining the nature of the trajectories.
Attenuation properties of EM wave by magnetized nonuniform plasma slab coated on perfect conductor plane
Authors: Han Yong‐Su , Kim Yong‐Jun , Ri Myong‐Il , Kim Kyong‐Ho
Published: December 2020

The total amplitude reflection coefficient of EM wave in a nonuniform plasma slab coated on perfect conductor plane is newly derived by using the scattering matrix method (SMM), and the attenuation is calculated. Three types of plasma electron density profile, that is the hyperbolic, sinusoidal, and linear profiles, are used. The external magnetic field and plasma parameters such as the maximum electron density and collision frequencies are discussed to calculate the attenuation of EM wave. The calculation results show that the plasma electron density profile and maximum electron density exert a large effect to the attenuation of EM wave and the attenuation under the uniform external magnetic field is taken place by the electron cyclotron resonance absorption, the up hybrid resonance absorption and geometric resonances absorption.
Synergistic protective effects between docosahexaenoic acid and omeprazole on the gastrointestinal tract in the indomethacin‐induced injury model
Authors: Sánchez‐Trigueros Martha Ivonne , Méndez‐Cruz Fidel , Pineda‐Peña Elizabeth Arlen , Rivera‐Espinoza Yadira , Castañeda‐Hernández Gilberto , Chávez‐Piña Aracely Evangelina
Published: December 2020

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most commonly used drugs due to their antipyretic, anti‐inflammatory, and analgesic properties. However, NSAIDs can cause adverse reactions, mainly gastrointestinal damage. Omeprazole (OMP) exhibits gastroprotective activity, but its protection is limited at the intestinal level. For this reason, it is essential to utilize a combination of therapies that provide fewer adverse effects, such as the combined treatment of OMP and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid with anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, and gastroprotective activities. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacological interaction between DHA and OMP in a murine model of indomethacin‐induced gastrointestinal damage. The gastroprotective and enteroprotective effects of DHA (0.3–10 mg/kg, p.o.), OMP (1–30 mg/kg, p.o.), or the combination treatment of both compounds (3–56.23 mg/kg, p.o.) were evaluated in the indomethacin‐induced gastrointestinal damage model (30 mg/kg, p.o.). Since DHA and OMP exhibited a protective effect in a dose‐responsive fashion, the ED30 for each individual compound was determined and a 1:1 combination of DHA and OMP was tested. Isobolographic analysis was used to determine any pharmacodynamic interactions. Since the effective experimental dose ED30 (Zexp) of the combined treatment of DHA and OMP was lower than the theoretical additive dose (Zadd; p < .05) in both the stomach and small intestine their protective effects were considered synergistic. These results indicate that the synergistic protective effects from combined treatment of DHA and OMP could be ideal for mitigating damage generated by NSAIDs at the gastrointestinal level.
Nanoporous structured Sn‐MWCNT/Cu electrodes fabricated by electrodeposition–chemical dezincification for catalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Shao Xiaolin , Zhang Qi , Zhang Xurui , Yi Jin , Liu Yuyu , Zhang Jiujun
Published: December 2020

A facile method is developed to fabricate nanoporous, structured, Sn‐based catalyst electrodes. Sn, Zn, and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are co‐electrodeposited on a copper substrate, followed by chemical dezincification in NaOH aqueous solution to remove Zn. By controlling variables such as the contents of Zn and MWCNTs, a series of Sn‐MWCNT/Cu (SZMC) electrodes are fabricated. Experimental results show that using such novel SZMC electrodes can achieve a HCOO− Faradaic efficiency of over 91% at −0.99 V versus RHE for 10 hours in CO2‐saturated 0.5 M KHCO3 aqueous solution. The high performance is attributed to the addition of MWCNTs and Zn, followed by chemical dezincification to remove Zn and then create vacancies in the catalyst structure, which results in a special porous structure of SZMC with large surface area. Then ECSA is used for enhancing the catalytic activity and selectivity of HCOO− production, as well as promoting intermediate adsorption and mass transfer.
A modified Raupach's model applicable for shear‐stress partitioning on surfaces covered with dense and flat‐shaped gravel roughness elements
Authors: Li Huiru , Zou Xueyong , Zhang Mengcui , Kang Liqiang , Zhang Chunlai , Cheng Hong , Wu Xiaoxu
Published: December 2020

A commonly used measure to prevent soil wind erosion is to cover the surface with gravel. Gravel can inhibit soil erosion by covering the surface directly, changing the airflow field near the surface and sharing the shear stress of wind. Similar to other roughness elements, the protective effect of gravel on soil is usually expressed in terms of the ratio of the shear stress on the exposed soil surface to the total shear stress on the rough surface due to wind, i.e. through a shear‐stress partitioning model. However, the existing shear‐stress partitioning models, represented by Raupach's model (RM93), are only applicable when the lateral coverage of the roughness elements, λ < 0.10, and the applicability of the models to flat‐shaped roughness elements is unclear. The purpose of this study is to verify the applicability of RM93 for dense and flat‐shaped gravel roughness elements by using shear‐stress data from wind‐tunnel measurements pertaining to roughness elements with different densities (0.013 ≤ λ ≤ 0.318) and flat shapes (height‐to‐width ratios in the range 0.20 ≤ H/W ≤ 0.63), and to modify RM93 to enhance its predictive ability. The results indicate that RM93 cannot accurately predict the shear‐stress partitioning for surfaces covered by densely distributed and flat‐shaped gravel roughness elements. This phenomenon occurs because, when roughness elements are distributed densely or are flat‐shaped, the proportion of the shear stress on the top surface of the roughness elements (τc) to the total shear stress (τ) is large; in this case, τc plays a dominant role and serves as an essential component in the shear‐stress partitioning model. Consequently, RM93 is modified by incorporating τc into the calculation of τ. Under conditions of λ < 0.32 and H/W > 0.2, the modified RM93 can yield satisfactory predictions regarding the shear‐stress partitioning.
A Comparative Analysis of Analytical Techniques for Rapid Oil Spill Identification
Authors: Roman-Hubers Alina T. , McDonald Thomas J. , Baker Erin S. , Chiu Weihsueh A. , Rusyn Ivan
Published: December 2020

The complex chemical composition of crude oils presents many challenges for rapid chemical characterization in the case of a spill. A number of approaches are currently used to “fingerprint” petroleum-derived samples. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is the most common, albeit not very rapid, technique; however, with GC-MS alone, it is difficult to resolve the complex substances in crude oils. The present study examined the potential application of ion mobility spectrometry–mass spectrometry (IMS-MS) coupled with chem-informatic analyses as an alternative high-throughput method for the chemical characterization of crude oils. We analyzed 19 crude oil samples from on- and offshore locations in the Gulf of Mexico region in the United States using both GC-MS (biomarkers, gasoline range hydrocarbons, and n-alkanes) and IMS-MS (untargeted analysis). Hierarchical clustering, principal component analysis, and nearest neighbor–based classification were used to examine sample similarity and geographical groupings. We found that direct-injection IMS-MS performed either equally or better than GC-MS in the classification of the origins of crude oils. In addition, IMS-MS greatly increased the sample analysis throughput (minutes vs hours per sample). Finally, a tabletop science-to-practice exercise, utilizing both the GC-MS and IMS-MS data, was conducted with emergency response experts from regulatory agencies and the oil industry. This activity showed that the stakeholders found the IMS-MS data to be highly informative for rapid chemical fingerprinting of complex substances in general and specifically advantageous for accurate and confident source-grouping of crude oils. Collectively, the present study shows the utility of IMS-MS as a technique for rapid fingerprinting of complex samples and demonstrates its advantages over traditional GC-MS-based analyses when used for decision-making in emergency situations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1034–1049. © 2020 SETAC
Nephrotoxic Effects Caused by Occupational Exposure to Agrochemicals in a Region of Northeastern Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Prudente Ivângela Raphaela Gouveia , Souza Bruna Rodrigues Silva , Nascimento Laranda de Carvalho , Gonçalves Vitória Shiévila dos Santos , Silva Danielle Soares da , Rabelo Thallita Kelly , Alves Oldegar , Santos Ana Cláudia , de Rezende Neto José Melquiades , Tavares Debora Dos Santos , Santos Márcio Bezerra , Barreto André Sales , Pereira Fabiano Alvim , Kaiser Cláudia Cristina , Guimarães Adriana Gibara
Published: December 2020

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the renal function of rural workers in a city of northeastern Brazil. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 208 workers in Boquim, Sergipe, Brazil. Renal function markers and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were evaluated and the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined. The sample consisted mainly of illiterate males with a low usage of personal protective equipment and no training. Approximately 40% had some level of renal failure. Relative risk (1.59) of GFR alteration was higher in workers with more than 5 yr of exposure, mainly to organophosphates. Workers more than 60 yr of age presented a 17.06 greater risk for manifesting acute intoxication. Butyrylcholinesterase reduction was associated with reports of intoxication (relative risk of 11.36). We concluded that exposure to pesticides represented a risk factor for the development of nephrotoxic effects and alteration of renal function, which reinforced the need to implement measures to protect rural workers. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1132–1138. © 2020 SETAC
Are Vertebrates Still Needed in Routine Whole Effluent Toxicity Testing for Oil and Gas Discharges?
Authors: Hughes Sarah A. , Maloney Erin M. , Bejarano Adriana C.
Published: December 2020

Routine whole effluent toxicity (WET) testing is commonly used to monitor effluent discharges for regulatory compliance in North America. However, the use of fish in WET testing raises ethical concerns and therefore an important question to be explored is whether invertebrates can be used to reduce and/or replace the need for vertebrate testing. The present study evaluated WET data collected for regulatory compliance between 2003 and 2019 (n = 2581 endpoints) from 20 different stationary onshore and offshore oil and gas facilities located across Canada and the United States. Our objective was to assess the relative sensitivity between vertebrates (i.e., fish) and invertebrates in paired samples and to evaluate trends in WET compliance. Despite the variability in testing endpoints, invertebrates displayed equal to or greater sensitivity to tested effluents than fish. For example, based on no-observed-effect concentrations for survival and growth, Americamysis bahia was found to be protective of Menidia beryllina in 90% of endpoint comparisons (n = 336). The results also indicated that regulatory compliance was high (94–100%), with most WET tests passing the established criteria by large margins (79–251%). The results of this comprehensive analysis of historical WET data can be used to improve future permit testing requirements and help answer the question of whether fish tests are needed for routine WET testing. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1255–1265. © 2020 Shell Oil Company. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Abstract

Historical whole effluent toxicity (WET) data collected for effluent discharge permits from oil and gas facilities were compiled into a database and analyzed. The objective was to explore the relative sensitivities of vertebrate (fish) and invertebrate test organisms in WET tests and to understand performance of oil and gas effluent discharges over time against WET criteria. These data can be used to support discussions on whether there could be opportunities to optimize WET testing such as reduce routine WET testing using vertebrate organisms. M. beryllina = Menidia beryllina; A. bahia = Americamysis bahia; O. mykiss = Oncorhynchus mykiss; D. magna = Daphnia magna; P. promelas = Pimephales promelas; C. dubia = Ceriodaphnia dubia; D. pulex = Daphnia pulex.
Effects of 30‐minute single sessions of yoga and Pilates on frailty in patients with psychiatric disorders: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ikai‐Tani Saeko , Tani Hideaki , Kamiyama Saki , Mimura Masaru , Uchida Hiroyuki
Published: December 2020

Key Points

A 30‐min single session of yoga and Pilates improved postural stability in psychiatric disorders

The single Hatha yoga session decreased salivary α‐amylase activity compared to the Pilates

These improvements were not sustained when measured at the 1‐week follow‐up

Yoga and Pilates could be a treatment option against frailty in psychiatric disorders

Further investigations focusing on the frequency and intensity of yoga and Pilates are warranted
Neurodegeneration in Hepatic and Neurologic Wilson’s Disease
Authors: Viveiros André , Beliveau Vincent , Panzer Marlene , Schaefer Benedikt , Glodny Bernhard , Henninger Benjamin , Tilg Herbert , Zoller Heinz , Scherfler Christoph
Published: December 2020

Clinical presentation of Wilson disease (WD) includes hepatic and neurologic manifestations. This study compares subcortical brain regions by magnetic resonance imaging in patients with WD and without neurological symptoms. Distinct atrophy affecting the basal ganglia, accumbens, and hippocampus was present in neurological WD. Cerebellar atrophy was observed in hepatic WD without neurological symptoms.
Metal Free Amino‐Oxidation of Electron Rich Alkenes Mediated by an Oxoammonium Salt
Authors: Millimaci Alexandra M. , Meador Rowan I. L. , Dampf Sara J. , Chisholm John D.
Published: December 2020

4‐Acetamido‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐oxopiperidinium tetrafluoroborate (Bobbitt's salt) effectively activates electron rich alkenes and promotes the addition of anilines. This transformation provides a direct, transition metal free method for amino‐oxidation of alkenes under mild conditions. The relative stereochemistry of the amino‐oxidation is influenced by solvent effects, with both the syn and anti amino‐oxidation products being accessible from identical starting materials.
Is the relationship between corruption, government stability and non‐performing loans non‐linear? A threshold analysis for theMENAregion
Authors: Hakimi Abdelaziz , Boussaada Rim , Karmani Majdi
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this article is to check whether there is a threshold effect in the government stability, corruption and non‐performing loans (NPLs) relationship in the MENA region. To this end, we used a sample of MENA banks over the period 2004–2017. Empirical results of the panel smooth transition regression model indicate that there is a threshold effect in the government stability, corruption and NPLs relationship. More specifically, we have found that the impact of corruption and government stability on NPLs is negative and significant only if a certain threshold level has been attained; until then, the effect is insignificant.
I can see myself helping: The effect of self‐awareness on prosocial behaviour
Authors: Lewis Jerome Anthony , Himmelberger Zachary M. , Elmore J. Dean
Published: December 2020

Many studies indicate that increasing self‐awareness leads to individuals reflecting on their values and ideals (Silvia & Duval, 2001). This self‐reflection appears to increase prosocial behaviour (Berkowitz, 1987). However, previously studies typically manipulated self‐awareness in situations in which the individual may have felt pressure from the researcher to help. Thus, experimenter pressure to behave prosocially confounds the self‐awareness explanation provided in past research. We used a novel experimental paradigm to manipulate self‐awareness and remove the researcher's presence to decrease the likelihood that the participant would conform to experimenter demand. Participants were 36 college students (Mage = 19.52; 25 women). The results indicated a strong probability that the experimental condition participants were more prosocial than control condition participants. These findings provide additional support for the hypothesis that self‐reflection increases prosocial behaviour, even without experimenter demands. These findings and the importance of studying objective self‐awareness in light of the coronavirus are discussed.
Vitreous substitutes: An overview of the properties, importance, and development
Authors: Yadav Indu , Purohit Shiv Dutt , Singh Hemant , Bhushan Sakchi , Yadav Manoj Kumar , Velpandian Thirumurthy , Chawla Rohan , Hazra Saugata , Mishra Narayan Chandra
Published: December 2020

Vitreous or vitreous humor is a complex transparent gel that fills the space between the lens and retina of an eye and acts as a transparent medium that allows light to pass through it to reach the photoreceptor layer (retina) of the eye. The vitreous humor is removed in ocular surgery (vitrectomy) for pathologies like retinal detachment, macular hole, diabetes‐related vitreous hemorrhage detachment, and ocular trauma. Since the vitreous is not actively regenerated or replenished, there is a need for a vitreous substitute to fill the vitreous cavity to provide a temporary or permanent tamponade to the retina following some vitreoretinal surgeries. An ideal vitreous substitute could probably be left inside the eye forever. The vitreous humor is transparent, biocompatible, viscoelastic and highly hydrophilic; polymeric hydrogels with these properties can be a potential candidate to be used as vitreous substitutes. To meet the tremendous demand for the vitreous substitute, many scientists all over the world have developed various kinds of vitreous substitutes or tamponade agent. Vitreous substitutes, whatsoever developed till date, are associated with several advantages and disadvantages, and there is no ideal vitreous substitute available till date. This review highlights the polymer‐based vitreous substitutes developed so far, along with their advantages and limitations. The gas‐based and oil‐based substitutes have also been discussed but very briefly.
Human Amniotic Membrane: A review on tissue engineering, application, and storage
Authors: Leal‐Marin Sara , Kern Thomas , Hofmann Nicola , Pogozhykh Olena , Framme Carsten , Börgel Martin , Figueiredo Constanca , Glasmacher Birgit , Gryshkov Oleksandr
Published: December 2020

Human amniotic membrane (hAM) has been employed as scaffolding material in a wide range of tissue engineering applications, especially as a skin dressing and as a graft for corneal treatment, due to the structure of the extracellular matrix and excellent biological properties that enhance both wound healing and tissue regeneration. This review highlights recent work and current knowledge on the application of native hAM, and/or production of hAM‐based tissue‐engineered products to create scaffolds mimicking the structure of the native membrane to enhance the hAM performance. Moreover, an overview is presented on the available (cryo) preservation techniques for storage of native hAM and tissue‐engineered products that are necessary to maintain biological functions such as angiogenesis, anti‐inflammation, antifibrotic and antibacterial activity.
Fgf9 Negatively Regulates Bone Mass by Inhibiting Osteogenesis and Promoting Osteoclastogenesis Via MAPK and PI3K/AKT Signaling
Authors: Tang Lingyun , Wu Min , Lu Shunyuan , Zhang Hongxin , Shen Yan , Shen Chunling , Liang Hui , Ge Haoyang , Ding Xiaoyi , Wang Zhugang
Published: December 2020

Fibroblast growth factor 9 (Fgf9) is a well-known factor that regulates bone development; however, its function in bone homeostasis is still unknown. Previously, we identified a point mutation in the FGF9 gene (p.Ser99Asn, S99N) and generated an isogeneic knock-in mouse model, which revealed that this loss-of-function mutation impaired early joint formation and was responsible for human multiple synostosis syndrome 3 (SYNS3). Moreover, newborn and adult S99N mutant mice exhibited significantly increased bone mass, suggesting that Fgf9 also participated in bone homeostasis. Histomorphology, tomography, and serological analysis of homozygous newborns and heterozygous adults showed that the Fgf9S99N mutation immensely increased bone mass and bone formation in perinatal and adult bones and decreased osteoclastogenesis in adult bone. An in vitro differentiation assay further revealed that the S99N mutation enhanced bone formation by promoting osteogenesis and mineralization of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and attenuating osteoclastogenesis of bone marrow monocytes (BMMs). Considering the loss-of-function effect of the S99N mutation, we hypothesized that Fgf9 itself inhibits osteogenesis and promotes osteoclastogenesis. An in vitro differentiation assay revealed that Fgf9 prominently inhibited BMSC osteogenic differentiation and mineralization and showed for the first time that Fgf9 promoted osteoclastogenesis by enhancing preosteoclast aggregation and cell–cell fusion. Furthermore, specific inhibitors and in vitro differentiation assays were used and showed that Fgf9 inhibited BMSC osteogenesis mainly via the MEK/ERK pathway and partially via the PI3K/AKT pathway. Fgf9 also promoted osteoclastogenesis as a potential costimulatory factor with macrophage colony-stimating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) by coactivating the MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Taken together, our study demonstrated that Fgf9 is a negative regulator of bone homeostasis by regulating osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis and provides a potential therapeutic target for bone degenerative diseases. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Fragmentation of natural orbital occupation numbers‐based diagnostic of differential multireference character in complexes with hydrogen bonds
Authors: Šulka Martin , Dubecký Matúš
Published: December 2020

We explore the possible route to approximate natural orbital occupation numbers‐based diagnostic of differential multireference character of noncovalent energy differences by techniques based on many‐body expansion. It turns out that two‐body fragmentation of monomers may lead to a reasonable approximation of such a diagnostic in hydrogen‐bonded complexes. The results are useful, for example, for assessment of the expected bias cancellation in energy differences of larger systems obtained by single‐reference methods.
NLRP3 is involved in long bone edification and the maturation of osteogenic cells
Authors: Detzen L. , Cheat B. , Besbes A. , Hassan B. , Marchi V. , Baroukh B. , Lesieur J. , Sadoine J. , Torrens C. , Rochefort G. , Bouchet J. , Gosset M.
Published: December 2020

Overexpression of the nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome in chronic auto‐immune diseases leads to skeletal anomalies, with severe osteopenia due to the activation of osteoclasts. Reproducing this phenotype inNlrp3knock‐in mice has provided insights into the role of NLRP3 in bone metabolism. We studied the role of NLRP3 in physiological bone development using a completeNlrp3knock‐out mouse model. We found impaired skeletal development inNlrp3−/−mice, resulting in a shorter stature than that ofNlrp3+/+ mice. These growth defects were associated with altered femur bone growth, characterized by a deficient growth plate and an osteopenic profile of the trabeculae. No differences in osteoclast recruitment or activity were observed. Instead, Nlrp3−/−femurs showed a less mineralized matrix in the trabeculae than those ofNlrp3+/+ mice, as well as less bone sialoprotein (BSP) expressing hypertrophic chondrocytes. In vitro, primary osteoblasts lacking NLRP3 expression showed defective mineralization, together with the downregulation of BSP expression. Finally, follow‐up by micro‐CT highlighted the role of NLPR3 in bone growth, occurring early in living mice, as the osteopenic phenotype diminishes over time. Overall, our data suggest that NLRP3 is involved in bone edification via the regulation of hypertrophic chondrocyte maturation and osteoblast activity. Furthermore, the defect appeared to be transitory, as the skeleton recovered with aging.
Do common elements predict class merger: A test of Sidman's theory of equivalence
Authors: Vaidya Manish , Niland Haven
Published: December 2020

The study presented here investigated the effect of common and uncommon elements on class merger as predicted by Sidman in his reconceptualization of stimulus equivalence suggesting that common elements among contingencies can facilitate emergent performances (1994, 1997, 2000). Eight adult participants were exposed to a procedure that arranged for stimulus–reinforcer correlations in Phase 1 and response–reinforcer correlations in Phase 2 of a 3‐phase study. In the common element group, the visual images serving as reinforcers were the same in Phase 1 and Phase 2. In the uncommon elements group, the images serving as reinforcers were different in Phases 1 and 2. In Phase 3, participants were given an opportunity to respond but no feedback was programmed. The results showed that participants' responding was well differentiated in the common element group and undifferentiated in the uncommon elements group. These results are predicted by Sidman's revised formulation of the provenance and scope of equivalence relations. Specifically, these data support Sidman's (1994, 1997, 2000) suggestion that elements of a contingency enter into an equivalence class and common elements among contingencies are sufficient to produce class mergers. The findings highlight an emergent simple discrimination and raise some interesting considerations about the definition of equivalence under the new formulation.
The fine structure of the turbot eye (Scophtalmus maximus): A macro‐anatomical, light and scanning electron microscopical study
Authors: Onuk Burcu , Pehlivan Ozgür Y. , Yardimci Banu
Published: December 2020

In fish species, the morphological structure of the eye varies depending on environmental conditions. Morphometric data about the sensory organs of fish is lacking. Therefore, this study aims to describe the morphological structure of the turbot eye using gross, light and scanning electron microscope examinations. The turbot eyeball was found to comprise three layers: the tunica fibrosa bulbi (cornea, sclera), the tunica vasculosa bulbi (choroidea, iris) and the tunica nervea bulbi (retina). The thickness of the centre of the cornea measured approximately 153.14 μm, and the peripheral thickness measured 410.81 μm. The sclera consisted of a two‐part cartilage structure that was connected with elastic fibres. The choroideal rete was found in the tunica vasculosa bulbi, and its thickness measured 1.6 ± 0.1 mm. Moreover, no pigment was found in the choroidea. The lens was determined to be a very hard and transparent structure extending towards the cornea. In addition, we detected five ligaments in the equatorial plane of the eye, in which the tendon of the retractor lentis muscle attaches to the lens. Also, there were six extraocular muscles in the turbot. This study is the first to present detailed descriptions of morphological structures and morphometric data for all the layers of the turbot eye. Since the anatomical structure of the eye in fish is variable, it is thought that the data on the turbot eye will contribute to the anatomy literature.
Acute kidney injury in hospitalized cirrhotic patients: Risk factors, type of kidney injury, and survival
Authors: Khatua Chitta Ranjan , Sahu Saroj Kanta , Meher Dinesh , Nath Gautam , Singh Shivaram Prasad
Published: December 2020

Background and Aim

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of chronic liver disease (CLD). We performed a prospective study to evaluate the risk factors and spectrum of AKI among decompensated cirrhosis (DC) patients and the impact of AKI on survival.

Methods

This study was conducted in consecutive DC patients hospitalized in SCB Medical College between December 2016 and October 2018. AKI was defined as per ICA criteria. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory parameters and outcomes were compared between patients with and without AKI.

Results

A total of 576 DC subjects were enrolled, 315 (54.69%) of whom had AKI; 34% (n = 106) had stage 1A, 28% (n = 90) stage 1B, 21% (n = 65) stage 2, and 17% (n = 54) stage 3 AKI. Alcohol was the predominant cause of CLD (66.7%). In 207 (65.7%) patients, diuretic/lactulose/nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs use was noted, and infection was present in 190 (60.3%) patients. Compared to those without AKI, patients with AKI had higher leucocyte count, higher serum urea and creatinine, higher Child‐Turcotte‐Pugh, higher Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores (P < 0.001), longer hospital stay, and lower survival at 28 days and 90 days (P < 0.001). Besides, in patients with stages 1A to 3 AKI, there were differences in overall survival at 28 days (P < 0.001) and 90 days (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Over half of DC patients had AKI, and alcohol was the most common cause of cirrhosis in them. Use of AKI‐precipitating medications was the most common cause of AKI, followed by bacterial infection. AKI patients had increased prevalence of acute‐on‐chronic liver failure and had prolonged hospitalization and lower survival both at 28 days and 90 days.