bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small Molecules Inhibit Extranuclear Signaling by Estrogen: A Promising Strategy to Halt Breast Cancer Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Etti Imaobong , Nwafor Chukwuemeka , Essien Grace
Published: November 2020

The sex hormone estrogen plays critical roles in reproductive and sexual development. It regulates the expression and activity of key signaling molecules critical in various cellular signaling pathways. These signals are mediated by its binding to estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ). ERα has been shown to greatly participate in extranuclear signaling, inducing tumorogenesis and breast cancer metastasis. Small molecules from plants are reported with better selectivity toward tumorigenic cells with negligible toxicity when compared to their synthetic counterpart. The molecules used in this study were first probed for their drug-likeness and their pharmacokinetic profile was elucidated before docking them to the ligand binding domain of the human ERα followed by a post docking prime analysis. All tested molecules had good drug-like and pharmacokinetic properties when compared to about 95% of orally available drugs as predicted by qikprop. The docking results revealed a strong binding interaction with ERα, influenced mostly by the vicinal diol groups of the studied molecules. These resulted in a conformational change, inducing receptor dimerization and altering the interactions of the sex hormone with other proteins. The studied ligands are promising in strongly inhibiting the binding of estrogen to ERα, thus limiting its extranuclear signaling.
Total Antioxidant from Herbal Medicine as a Possible Tool for the Multifunctional Prevention of Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Anggi Viani
Published: November 2020

Muscular atrophy is one of disease by the loss of skeletal muscle mass. So, by the loss in muscle often causes rapid muscle atrophy and the occurs during injury and illness its causes immobilization in spinal muscle mass. Usually, the impact factor of the nervous system in musculoskeletal is caused by aging, immobility, malnutrition, medication and even the range of injuries disease impact by the nervous system. To meet the needs needed by the loss of skeletal, we need high total antioxidant from herbal medicine as multifunctional potentially prevention of muscular atrophy condition. Antioxidants are agents that can slow down or prevent oxidation process and protect cells system from the damage of cell by the loss skeletal in muscle mass. One of herbal medicine is Abelmoschus manihot L. Medik From Palu of central Sulawesi as a possible multifunctional prevention of Muscular Atrophy, where the total antioxidant value is 3,45 mg/mL.
Retired but Not Tired: Entrepreneurial Motives and Performance among Retired Public Servants in Tanzania
Authors: Namala Anselm , A. Milanzi Mursali
Published: November 2020

Venturing into a business venture at an old age is an interesting phenomenon. Retirees seem to consider this decision as imperative as it provides them with a source of earning and keeps them active post-retirement. Despite a plethora of research on entrepreneurship, there is a paucity of research on entrepreneurial behavior and performance retired public servants. The current study examines the motive and performance of businesses owned by retired public servants in Tanzania, one of the developing economies. The study used a survey of 90 randomly selected public servants who retired between 2012 and 2016. The descriptive and probit regression analyses were used to examine the entrepreneurial performance and factors associated with it. The results of the analysis suggest that the performance of the businesses is generally not good, as the majority made losses for the past 3 years consecutively. As for the determinants of performance, the study observed that age and source of capital negatively affect performance, whereas education and planning/preparations for business establishment positively influenced entrepreneurial performance. The findings imply that employees, employers and social security industry have a role to play in creating awareness and preparing public service employees for life after retirement especially in sustaining post-retirement income. Lumpsum pension and monthly allowance may be necessary, but the knowledge to manage them through profitable business ventures my be sufficient for a better post-retirement life.
Pathology of Intestinal Transplantation: Rejection and a Case of Tolerance
Authors: Tsuruyama Tatsuaki
Published: November 2020

Small bowel transplants are less common than other organ transplants. Histological criteria for rejection of the transplanted small intestine were proposed at the 8th International Symposium on Small Intestinal Transplantation 2003-2004. The Banff Conference on Transplant Disease Pathology, an international conference on the rejection of small bowel transplants, was held in 2019, and unifying diagnostic criteria were discussed (https://banfffoundation.org/pittsburgh-2019/). These histological criteria are expected to be standardized in the near future. This review outlines new findings such as apoptosis and apoptotic-body phagocytic findings in the lamina propria and behavior of natural killer T (NKT) cells, in addition to previously known crypt Fas-related apoptosis in acute cellular rejection. Furthermore, we review the case of a recipient who has shown no rejection for 5 years after transplantation. In the transplanted small intestine of this patient, the lymphocytes were replaced by those of another male patient.
Hydrometallurgical Recovery of Gold from Mining Wastes
Authors: Neag Emilia , Kovacs Eniko , Dinca Zamfira , Iulia Török Anamaria , Varaticeanu Cerasel , Andrea Levei Erika
Published: November 2020

Gold is a highly required material for a wide range of personal and industrial applications. The high demand for gold, together with the shortage of natural resources and high pollution potential of wastes generated during mining and ore processing activities led to search for alternative sources of gold. A possible source is represented by mine wastes resulting from the processing of polymetallic or sulfidic ores. The reprocessing of wastes and old tailings with moderate to low content of gold offers not only a business opportunity, but also enhances the quality of the surrounding environment, changes the land use and offers a wide range of socio-economic benefits. Cyanidation, the most widespread Au leaching option, is progressively abandoned due to the high risk associated with its use and to the low public acceptance. Therefore, alternative methods such as thiocyanate, thiourea, thiosulphate and halide leaching gained more and more interest. This chapter presents the most important features of some Au leaching methods, emphasizing their advantages, limitations and potential applications.
Nutrigenomics: An Interface of Gene-Diet-Disease Interaction
Authors: Mondal Sananda , Panda Debasish
Published: November 2020

Healthy diet and proper nutrition are basic necessity of life and play a key role in preventing diseases. Nutrigenomics (NG) is an emerging approach in nutritional research which deals with the gene-diet interactions. The concept of nutrigenomics is not new and it is commonly associated with “inborn errors of metabolism”, the rare genetic (inherited) disorders in which the body cannot properly turn food into energy. These disorders are related to insufficient availability of metabolic enzymes or cofactors due to alteration of gene. Usually cure of these diseases lies in restricted diet. Presently non communicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes and cancers are outnumbering the other health ailments among the different human populations of world. The main reason behind the occurrence of these NCDs is the abruptly changing life style and food habits after industrial revolution. With the advent of industrial revolution and economical concerns, the life style of people across the world has changed so much so that it resulted in approximately millions of death cases due to these NCDs. Study related to NG is one step forward in nutritional research involving the techniques of nutrition, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, molecular medicine and epidemiology together to understand the role of food as an epigenetic factor which unravel its role in the occurrence of these diseases. Hence, under the prevailing scenario of world health, it has become an urgency to boost NG research to find cure for dreaded diseases caused due to lack of healthy food and improper nutrition. Thus, such type of research findings ensures the effective benefit of genomic revolution for mankind near future.
Effects of Melatonin on Neurological Function and Maintenance of Physical and Motor Fitness in Collegiate Student-Athletes Following Sleep Deprivation
Authors: Paryab Nesa , Taheri Morteza , Irandoust Kahdijeh , Mirmoezzi Masoud
Published: November 2020

Background: Melatonin is one of the Supplements used to treat sleep problems such as insomnia and jet lag. Objectives: Since sleep deprivation may affect athletic performance, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of melatonin on neurological function and maintenance of physical and motor fitness in collegiate student-athletes following sleep deprivation. Methods: Ten collegiate student-athletes participated in randomized, double‐blind crossover trial with placebo control. Subjects were divided into six experimental groups: without sleep deprivation (WSD), 4 hours sleep deprivation (4HSD) and 24 hours sleep deprivation (24HSD) with melatonin (MEL) or placebo (PLA). WSD were allowed to sleep eight hours per night. Six milligrams of melatonin was administered 30 min before the training protocols. Training protocols included the Wingate Anaerobic test, Good Balance test, Vienna reaction time with the Stroop test. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Significant difference was set at P ≤ 0.05. Results: Six mg/day of MEL 30 min before training had no significant effect on anaerobic power, balance and reaction time in collegiate student-athletes WSD (P > 0.05). Although, 4HSD and 24HSD negatively affected balance function, MEL reduced its negative effects. Furthermore, 24HSD decrease neurological and physical performance in collegiate student-athletes and MEL improved anaerobic power and reaction time in collegiate student-athletes (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Pre-training MEL supplementation would alleviate neurological, physical and motor performance impairment in collegiate student-athletes following sleep deprivation. MEL appears to be more effective in athletes with longer sleep deprivation.
Comparison of Performance Indicators of Educational Hospitals Affiliated with Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences Before and After the Implementation of Healthcare Reform Plan
Authors: Cheshmekaboodi Mojgan , Ershad Sarabi Roghayeh , Mohammadi Ali
Published: November 2020

Background: The most important factor representing the performance and utilization of hospital services are hospital indicators. Objectives: The aim of study was comparison performance indices before and after health reform plan in Kermanshah and compared with the standard of the Iranian Ministry of Health. Methods: the study was comparative and descriptive-analytical that performed cross-sectional in 2017 and conducted in seven educational hospitals in Kermanshah. The data were related to 37 indices in five areas from hospitals that were submitted to the Department of Statistics in Deputy of Treatment. The data were collected using data extraction form. The validity of the form was confirmed by 7 experts. Data analyzed using SPSS 20. Results: results showed that comparing indices of bed and hospital stay, patient indices, and indicators for outpatient and inpatient department services from para-clinical services except endoscopic increased and the mortality indices decreased. Comparing indices with Pabon-laso and standards show that status of some indices for several years before and one year after health reform plan were in unfavorable condition. Conclusions: results showed that the implementation of the health reform plan may have caused changes in most of the indicators, but these changes were significant in a few number of indices. So it is needed that policymakers evaluate indices periodically.
Assessment of Quality of Life and Self-care Behaviors in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Mashhad, Iran
Authors: Bazpour Malihe , Rostampour Sahar , Kamel-Khodabandeh Atiye
Published: November 2020

Background: Diabetes is a highly prevalent metabolic disorder in the world. Complications of diabetes mellitus can have an extreme effect on the quality of life in terms of physical and mental health, as well as social and environmental well-being. Objectives: The current study aimed to measure the quality of life, its determinants, and self-care behaviors in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the diabetes clinic of Imam Reza hospital in Mashhad on 140 patients with type 2 diabetes from October to December 2019. The Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities (SDSCA) questionnaire and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief (WHOQOL-BREF-26 items) were used for data collection. Data analysis was carried out with the Mann-Whitney test and ANCOVA. Results: The mean age of study participants was 58.41 ± 8.91 years, and the majority of them (67.14%) were female. The overall self-care score was 43.32 ± 10.93 in males and 39.93 ± 9.94 in females. The mean scores of the dimensions of quality of life were 61.29 ± 15.66 for physical health, 60.62 ± 13.70 for mental health, 68.67 ± 11.63 for social health, and 61.54 ± 14.88 for environmental health. Among self-care behaviors, physical activity (P = 0.006) was a stronger predictor of quality of life. Demographic characteristics (except for the duration of disease, family history, and age) showed significant correlations with the overall aspects of quality of life. Conclusions: The quality of life of people with diabetes was correlated with some demographic variables. However, the duration of disease, family history, and age did not have any effect on the quality of life. We found that the self-care behavior of physical activity was a significant predictor of quality of life in adults with diabetes. Therefore, it is important to implement programs to improve self-care behaviors.
The Effect of Hydro-Alcoholic Extract of Nigella sativa on Bmp7 and Bmp8b Expression in Rats Fed with a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Yaghoobi Akram , Ghatreh Samani Keihan , Farrokhi Effat
Published: November 2020

Background: Bone morphogenetic protein7 (BMP7) and bone morphogenetic protein 8b (BMP8b) can induce browning of white adipose tissue. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidative effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa on the repair of oxidative damage caused by a high-fat diet. Also, Bmp7 and Bmp8b gene expressions were investigated on white adipose tissue of the rats and then compared with metformin effects. Methods: Eighty rats were divided into two groups of prevention and treatment; then each set was divided into four sub-groups based on the administered diet (i.e., ordinary, fat, metformin, and extract of Nigella sativa). Lipid profile, paraoxonase1, malondialdehyde (MDA), HDL, and antioxidant capacity were measured in serum samples, and relative Bmp7 and Bmp8b gene expressions were calculated in white adipose tissue. Results: For both prevention and treatment sets, the weight of rats who received a high-fat diet decreased more compared to those in the normal diet group. The weight of rats who received metformin or nigella extract was also decreased compared to the high-fat diet group. MDA was also increased, but total antioxidant capacity and catalase were decreased in rats of the high-fat diet group compared to the normal diet group. MDA was also declined in nigella receiving rats, but liver PON1 activity, total antioxidant capacity, and catalase were increased, compared to the second group (P < 0.05). In the prevention and treatment set, Bmp8b gene expression was increased in the metformin and Nigella sativa groups, whereas it was decreased among those who received a high-fat diet. Bmp7 gene expression was decreased in the high-fat diet set, but metformin and Nigella sativa extract didn’t influence Bmp7 gene expression. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that Nigella sativa extract has a protective role against oxidative stress in a high-fat diet.
Association Between Geographic Tongue and Personal Temperament Based on the Knowledge of Persian Medicine
Authors: Pourshahidi Sara , Mansourian Arash , Habibzadeh Maryam , Parvizi Mohammad Mahdi , Nimrouzi Majid
Published: November 2020

Background: Geographic tongue (GT) is one of the benign inflammatory oral diseases with unknown etiology. Objectives: The present study aimed to find the correlation between temperament (mizaj) and GT lesions in the context of Persian medicine and conventional approach. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 401 eligible participants were selected, 201 as the case group and 200 as the control group. After obtaining informed consent, the participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire. Then, the collected data were analyzed using SPSS, version 21. Results: Patients with GT were moderate regarding hot-cold temperament, and they had dry temperament. There was a statistically significant relationship between dry temperament and GT lesions (P value = 0.037). In the control group, people without GT lesion possessed average temperament either regarding hot-cold or wet-dry temperament. Moreover, there was a statistically significant relationship between hot-dry temperament and GT lesions (P value = 0.002). Conclusions: The results of our study showed a higher frequency of GT in dry temperament. The dominant pattern for people with GT in compound and simple temperament was hot-dry and dry, respectively. The second more frequent temperament was hot. Following temperament change, treatment of GT lesion or alleviation of its disturbing symptoms is an issue, which might be determined by conducting basic research and well-designed clinical trials in the future.
Anger, Affective Injustice, and Emotion Regulation
Authors: Archer Alfred , Mills Georgina ,   University of Arkansas Press
Published: November 2020

Victims of oppression are often called to let go of their anger in order to facilitate better discussion to bring about the end of their oppression. According to Amia Srinivasan (2018), this constitutes an affective injustice. In this paper, we use research on emotion regulation to shed light on the nature of affective injustice. By drawing on the literature on emotion regulation, we illustrate specifically what kind of work is put upon people who are experiencing affective injustice and why it is damaging. We begin by explaining affective injustice and how it can amount to a call for emotion regulation. Then we explain the various techniques that can be used to regulate emotions and explain how each might be harmful here. In the penultimate section of the paper, we explain how the upshot of this is that victims of affective injustice are left with a dilemma. Either they try to regulate their anger in a way that involves ignoring the fact of their oppression or they regulate it in a way that is likely to be harmful for them. Finally, we consider whether there are any good solutions to this dilemma, and how this issue opens up the possibility for further research into emotion regulation and moral philosophy.
Using a Quality Improvement Model to Implement Distress Screening in a Community Cancer Setting
Authors: Jo Bush, DNP, RN, MA, AOCN, FAAN Nancy , R. Goebel, RN, PhD, FPCN Joy , Hardan-Khalil, PhD, RN Kholoud , Matsumoto, MS, MFT Kayo
Published: November 2020

Background: Quality cancer care includes routine screening for psychosocial distress. This quality improvement project focused on the implementation of distress screening at a licensed affiliate of Cancer Support Community, a community-based non-profit organization that provides professionally led cancer support. Methods: An advanced practice oncology nurse assisted the staff in implementing and evaluating the process of distress screening. CancerSupportSource (CSS), a validated web-based distress screening program developed by Cancer Support Community for use in community cancer settings, was employed to screen for distress, identify potential resources, and improve in-house and community referrals. For purposes of this quality improvement project, CSS was administered in interview format by staff. The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) quality improvement approach was used to implement CSS. Results: To implement the practice of distress screening, 21 patient participants were initially screened and evaluated for distress, including risk for clinically significant levels of depression, using CSS. The tool identified participant concerns and flagged thirteen persons as at risk for depression. After implementation and evaluation of distress screening using PDSA, in a year, 51 participants were screened. Participants stated that distress screening allowed for discussion of intimate questions that may not have otherwise occurred in an intake interview. Conclusion: It was demonstrated that CSS identified psychosocial and practical needs, facilitating the referral process and identification of community resources. Application of the PDSA model was an effective quality improvement model that can be used for the implementation and sustainability of distress screening across settings.
Experiências em praxe: uma análise a partir de retratos sociológicos de estudantes de 1.º ano
Authors: Maia Inês
Published: November 2020

A partir de dois estudos de caso da Universidade do Porto, dedicámo-nos ao estudo do papel da praxe no processo de integração dos estudantes recém-chegados ao ensino superior. Este artigo discute 15 retratos sociológicos construídos a partir dessas experiências de 1.º ano. Problematizamos a eficácia da praxe enquanto principal mecanismo de integração e socialização na nova realidade contextual, concluindo que esta se apresenta como contexto de ativação, favorecimento, criação e inibição de disposições e competências. Identificamos, ainda, diferentes perfis, em que a multiplicidade de modos de relação com o fenómeno se consubstancia.
Abolição da pena de morte e mudança institucional: Portugal, 1867
Authors: Vaz Maria João , Estevens João
Published: November 2020

O artigo analisa a abolição de pena de morte para crimes civis em Portugal (1867), interpretando-a num quadro de mudança institucional. Argumenta-se que esta abolição teve origem numa efetiva penetração das ideias liberais transacionais na elite portuguesa e foi possibilitada pela acalmia no ambiente securitário nacional e transnacional. Tal permitiu que o estado se focasse no desenvolvimento da sociedade portuguesa e na sua modernização. Este progresso não poderia acontecer pela via socioeconómica, restando o progresso moral ou civilizacional como o caminho possível para alimentar a estratégia de progresso na segunda metade de Oitocentos.
Presentation of a Wavelet‑Based Harmonic Model for Tidal Level Forecasting at Sabah and Sarawak
Authors: Abubakar Auwal Garba , Mahmud Mohd Razali , Tang Kelvin Kang Wee , Husaaini Alhaji
Published: November 2020

The world’s tides are a result of the combined forces of celestial forces and centrifugal force exerted by the Earth‑Moon and the Sun acting on the water body, earth tides and the atmospheric tides. Harmonic analysis is the most popular and widely accepted method used for the processing and expression of tidal behavior as well as its characteristics. Despite its strengths, harmonic analysis has a few drawbacks when short data are involved for long term‑prediction. However, to enhance the accuracy of the popular methodology of harmonic analysis (HA), this study presents a wavelet‑based harmonic model for tidal analysis and prediction. Six months of water level heights at four tide gauge stations in Sabah and Sarawak of Malaysia were employed. The results obtained agrees with the original data when a comparison was made. The root mean square error (RMSE) and Pearson correlation coefficient (r) are the statistical index tools applied to test the functioning of the model. The residual error is the deviation between the original data and the predicted data which was also computed in this study. The new wavelet‑based harmonic model improves the accuracy of prediction. Moreover, the model is efficient and feasible for tidal analysis and prediction.
E-learning Model for Competence Development of Chief Information Officers
Authors: Vassileva Gergana
Published: November 2020

The objective of this paper is to make an overview and analysis of the role and the challenges that the Chief Information Officers (CIOs) are facing and to present an e-learning model for the continuous development of their competences that will allow regular upgrade of their knowledge and skills according to the needs of the organisations. For this purpose, a comparison is made between the public and the private sector about the fundamental principles, key characteristics and competences of CIOs. An e-learning model for the continuous development of the CIOs is proposed based on the ADDIE model that takes into consideration the required competence areas. Keywords: Chief Information Officers (CIOs), e-learning, personalised education, learning management platforms, data-driven education, life-long learning.
Direct C−H Arylation of Indole‐3‐Acetic Acid Derivatives Enabled by an Autonomous Self‐Optimizing Flow Reactor
Authors: Vasudevan N. , Wimmer Eric , Barré Elvina , Cortés‐Borda Daniel , Rodriguez‐Zubiri Mireia , Felpin François‐Xavier
Published: November 2020

Described herein is a continuous‐flow strategy for the palladium‐catalyzed direct C−H arylation of indole‐3‐acetic acid derivatives with arenediazonium salts. A fully autonomous self‐optimizing flow platform was used to efficiently optimize the coupling reaction in a three‐dimensional space. The flow methodology developed is experimentally simple, mild, broad in scope, and safer than traditional batch approaches. Our continuous‐flow approach is particularly convenient to prepare precursors of pharmaceutically relevant compounds.

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Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Sulfoxonium Ylides with Quinoline‐8‐carboxaldehydes for Synthesis of Quinoline‐1,3‐diketones
Authors: Lyu Xue‐Li , Huang Shi‐Sheng , Huang Yuan‐Qiong , Song Hong‐Jian , Liu Yu‐Xiu , Li Yong‐Qiang , Yang Shao‐Xiang , Wang Qing‐Min
Published: November 2020

Herein, we report a protocol for rhodium(III)‐catalyzed aldehydic C(sp2)−H acylmethylation reactions of quinoline‐8‐carboxaldehydes using sulfoxonium ylides as carbene precursors to afford 1,3‐diketones, which readily tautomerized to their enol forms. We determined the reaction mechanism by synthesizing the key intermediate, a five‐membered‐ring acylrhodium species.
Phenotypic Discovery of Neuroprotective Agents by Regulation of Tau Proteostasis via Stress‐Responsive Activation of PERK Signaling
Authors: Shin Young‐Hee , Cho Hana , Choi Bo Young , Kim Jonghoon , Ha Jaeyoung , Suh Sang Won , Park Seung Bum
Published: November 2020

Tau protein aggregates are a recognized neuropathological feature in Alzheimer's disease as well as many other neurodegenerative disorders, known as tauopathies. The development of tau‐targeting therapies is therefore extremely important but efficient strategies or protein targets are still unclear. Here, we performed a cell‐based phenotypic screening under endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress conditions and identified a small molecule, SB1617, capable of suppressing abnormal tau protein aggregation. By applying label‐free target identification technology, we revealed that the transient enhancement of protein kinase‐like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) signaling pathway through the inhibition of stress‐responsive SB1617 targets, PDIA3 and DNAJC3, is an effective strategy for regulating proteostasis in tauopathies. The molecular mechanism and the promising efficacy of SB1617 were demonstrated in neuronal cells and a mouse model with traumatic brain injury, a tauopathy known to involve ER stress.
The Trojan Horse Goes Wild: The Effect of Drug Loading on the Behavior of Nanoparticles
Authors: Stenzel Martina H.
Published: November 2020

Drug delivery with nanoparticles is sometimes compared to an attack with a Trojan Horse. The drugs are hidden in nanoparticles and enter the unsuspecting cells in a stealth‐like fashion. Here, I would like to share my thoughts that a comparison to the Trojan Horse does not always apply, and provide examples where an increased drug loading content was detrimental to the drug‐delivery process. The purpose is to highlight the importance of understanding the physicochemical properties of nanoparticles, and the importance of having materials scientists in the line‐up of researchers working together to create successful nanomedicine.
Recent update on antibacterial and antifungal activity of quinoline scaffolds
Authors: Dorababu Atukuri
Published: November 2020

Although most of the heterocycles have been reported to possess a significant pharmacological activity, only a few of them, namely quinoline derivatives, have exhibited the finest biological activities. Despite the few medicinal properties of the plain quinoline molecule, its derivatives exhibit diverse pharmacological properties such as anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiprotozoal activities, and so on. The potential antimicrobial properties of the quinoline derivatives are evident from the decades of research on these derivatives. Owing to limitations like drug resistance, high cost, severe side effects, and less bioavailability of previously synthesized antimicrobial agents, these drugs have become obsolete in recent years. Hence, the design of more efficient antimicrobial drugs must be given topmost priority. A breakthrough in drug discovery is a must to prevent malevolent microbial diseases. Addressing all these issues, researchers have been continuously contributing to antimicrobial drug discovery. Herein, a short description of the pharmacology of antimicrobial agents such as antibacterials and antifungals synthesized recently is provided. The versatile derivatization of the quinoline moiety leading to significant antimicrobial potencies is discussed, considering the structure–activity relationship.
Fine‐tuning ER‐phagy by post‐translational modifications
Authors: Eldeeb Mohamed A. , Zorca Cornelia E. , Ragheb Mohamed A. , Rashidi Fatma B. , Salah El‐Din Doaa S.
Published: November 2020

Autophagy functions in both selective and non‐selective ways to maintain cellular homeostasis. Endoplasmic reticulum autophagy (ER‐phagy) is a subclass of autophagy responsible for the degradation of the endoplasmic reticulum through selective encapsulation into autophagosomes. ER‐phagy occurs both under physiological conditions and in response to stress cues, and plays a crucial role in maintaining the homeostatic control of the organelle. Although specific receptors that target parts of the ER membrane, as well as, internal proteins for lysosomal degradation have been identified, the molecular regulation of ER‐phagy has been elusive. Recent work has uncovered novel regulators of ER‐phagy that involve post‐translational modifications of ER‐resident proteins and functional cross‐talk with other cellular processes. Herein, we discuss how morphology affects the function of the peripheral ER, and how ER‐phagy modulates the turnover of this organelle. We also address how ER‐phagy is regulated at the molecular level, considering implications relevant to human diseases.
How Does Bridging Core Modification Alter the Photovoltaic Characteristics of Triphenylamine‐Based Hole Transport Materials? Theoretical Understanding and Prediction
Authors: Janjua Muhammad Ramzan Saeed Ashraf
Published: November 2020

Perovskite solar cells have gained immense interest from researchers owing to their good photophysical properties, low‐cost production, and high power conversion efficiencies. Hole transport materials (HTMs) play a dominant role in enhancing the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) and long diffusion length of holes and electrons in perovskite solar cells. In hole transport materials, modification of π‐linkers has proved to be an efficient approach for enhancing the overall PCE of perovskite solar cells. In this work, π‐linker modification of a recently synthesized H−Bi molecule (R) is achieved with novel π‐linkers. After structural modifications, ten novel HTMs (HB1–HB10) with a D−π−D backbone are obtained. The structure–property relationship, and optoelectronic and photovoltaic characteristics of these newly designed hole transport materials are examined comprehensively and compared with reference molecules. In addition, different geometric parameters are also examined with the assistance of density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT. All the designed molecules exhibit narrow HOMO–LUMO energy gaps (Eg=2.82–2.99 eV) compared with theRmolecule (Eg=3.05 eV). The designed molecules express redshifting in their absorption spectra with low values of excitation energy, which in return offer high power conversion efficiencies. Further, density of states and molecular electrostatic potential analysis is performed to locate the different charge sites in the molecules. The reorganizational energies of holes and electrons are found to have good values, suggesting that these novel designed molecules are efficient hole transport materials for perovskite solar cells. In addition, the low binding energy values of the designed molecules (compared withR) offer high current charge density. Finally, complex study ofHB9:PC61BMis also undertaken to understand the charge transfer between the molecules of the complex. The results of all analyses advocate that these novel designed HTMs are promising candidates for the construction of future high‐performance perovskite solar cells.
As Nice as π: Aromatic Reactions Activated by π‐Coordination to Transition Metals
Authors: Williams Luke J. , Bhonoah Yunas , Wilkinson Luke A. , Walton James W.
Published: November 2020

π‐Coordination of aromatic molecules to metals dramatically alters their reactivity. For example, coordinated carbons become more electrophilic and C−H bonds of coordinated rings become more acidic. For many years, this change in reactivity has been used to trigger reactions that would not take place for uncoordinated arenes, however, there has been a recent resurgence in use of this technique, in part due to the development of catalytic reactions in which π‐coordination is transient. In this Minireview, we describe the key reaction chemistry of arenes coordinated to a range of transition metals, including stereoselective reactions and industrially relevant syntheses. We also summarise outstanding examples of catalytic processes. Finally, we give perspectives on the future direction of the field, with respect to both reactions that are stoichiometric in activating metals and those employing catalytic metal.
The Altmetric era in eating disorder research: Assessing the association between Altmetric scores and citation scores for articles in the International Journal of Eating Disorders
Authors: Karimipour Nicki , Sarkisyan Ani , Smith Kathryn E. , Corona Marissa , Nagata Jason M. , Murray Stuart B.
Published: November 2020

Objective

The dissemination and uptake of scientific findings is of critical importance. While broader research suggests that an article's Altmetric score may predict subsequent citation scores for scientific manuscripts, the potential relationship between online dissemination and the broader scientific uptake of findings has not been explored in eating disorder research.

Method

We identified 310 manuscripts published between 2017 and 2018 in the International Journal of Eating Disorders, and assessed (a) Altmetric scores, (b) the composition of Altmetric scores (i.e., Facebook posts, Twitter posts), and (c) overall citation scores.

Results

Higher Altmetric scores were associated with higher citation scores. Multivariate analysis of separate Altmetric components indicated a higher number of Facebook mentions was uniquely associated with higher citation scores.

Discussion

Altmetric scores may offer a viable and relatively rapid metric of the likely uptake and impact of manuscripts. Ultimately, these findings represent preliminary evidence of the benefits of widespread dissemination of eating disorder research beyond traditional academic methods. Future research should focus on expanding our preliminary findings to include a larger examination of articles to show evidence for or against the relationship between higher Altmetric scores and higher citation scores.
Perspectives on facilitating dynamic ecology courses online using active learning
Authors: Gahl Megan K. , Gale Allison , Kaestner Antonia , Yoshina Anda , Paglione Erin , Bergman Gal
Published: November 2020

As education methodology has grown to incorporate online learning, disciplines with a field component, like ecology, may find themselves sidelined in this transition. In response to challenges posed by moving classes online, previous studies have assessed whether an online environment can be effective for student learning. This work has found that active learning structures, which maximize information processing and require critical thinking, best support student learning. All too commonly, online and active learning are perceived as mutually exclusive. We argue the success of online learning requires facilitating active learning in online spaces. To highlight this intersection in practice, we use a case study of an online, active, and synchronous ecology and conservation biology course from the College of Natural Sciences at Minerva Schools at KGI. We use our perspectives as curriculum designers, instructors, and students of this course to offer recommendations for creating active online ecology courses. Key components to effective course design and implementation are as follows: facilitating critical “thinking like a scientist”, integrating open‐ended assignments into class discussion, and creating active in‐class dialogues by minimizing lecturing. Based on our experience, we suggest that by employing active learning strategies, the future of ecology in higher education is not inhibited, but in fact supported, by opportunities for learning online.
Soil Biodiversity: State-of-the-Art and Possible Implementation in Chemical Risk Assessment
Authors: Gestel Cornelis AM , Mommer Liesje , Montanarella Luca , Pieper Silvia , Coulson Mike , Toschki Andreas , Rutgers Michiel , Focks Andreas , Römbke Jörg
Published: November 2020

Protecting the structure and functioning of soil ecosystems is one of the central aims of current regulations of chemicals. This is, for instance, shown by the emphasis on the protection of key drivers and ecosystem services as proposed in the protection goal options for soil organisms by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Such targets require insight into soil biodiversity, its role in the functioning of ecosystems, and the way it responds to stress. Also required are tools and methodologies for properly assessing biodiversity. To address these issues, the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) Europe 14th Special Science Symposium (SESSS14) was held 19 to 20 November 2019 in Brussels, Belgium. The central aim of the SESSS14 was to provide information on how to include soil biodiversity and soil functions as protection goal options in the risk assessment and quantification of the effects of chemicals and other stressors (including their respective regulations). This paper is based on the presentations and discussions at the SESSS14 and will give a brief update on the scientific state-of-the art on soil biodiversity, novel scientific developments, experimental and modeling approaches, as well as case studies. It will also discuss how these approaches could inform future risk assessment of chemicals and other stressors in the regulatory context of protecting soil ecosystems. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:541–551. © 2020 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)

KEY POINTS

The SETAC Europe 14th Special Science Symposium (SESSS14) aimed at providing information on how to include soil biodiversity and soil functions (ecosystem services) as protection goal options in the risk assessment and quantification of the effects of chemicals and other stressors. Definitions and associated terminology currently used to describe soil biodiversity are given, together with a brief but comprehensive state-of-the-art overview of the current scientific knowledge on soil biodiversity and its relation to the functioning of soils. Backgrounds and current practices regarding the way protection of soil biodiversity is addressed in chemical regulations are described, including drawbacks and the possible ways forward. Novel methods for assessing biodiversity in soils are presented, as well as approaches, both experimental and modeling, for assessing effects of (chemical) stressors on soil biodiversity and the potential consequences for ecosystem services.
Review of Sustainable Grid-Independent Renewable Energy Access in Remote Communities of India
Authors: Bose Debajyoti , Saini Devender K , Yadav Monika , Shrivastava Saurabh , Parashar Nitish
Published: November 2020

In the last decade India has seen an increase in the adoption of solar energy-based technologies by consumers, which has been supported by various government efforts and policies. The rural areas and low-income households that lack a proper electricity supply have emerged as a market for solar off-grid technologies, with private developers increasing their market base slowly in this group. This has promulgated the need to restructure the decentralized energy sector. Existing literature points out the suitability of solar off-grid in such markets; the present study investigates the challenges that have hindered its growth. The study reviews the concept of poverty with respect to the energy sector and analyzes methods of determining poor energy access in the present scenario. It emphasizes the need to understand and reconceptualize policy instruments in order to make solar off-grid a powerful tool in tackling energy demand and providing adequate energy access. It further explores the causes of energy disconnects and how grid-independent solar energy is a technological solution of utmost relevance and in consonance with the idea of sustainable development. For a successful venture, both consumer behavior and marketer objectives are important determinants. The work also provides insights into various models, tools, factors, and social constructs that affect consumer perception and subsequently demand. Over the course of the study, it has been revealed how private players and entrepreneurs are tapping the wrong solar market, leading to misappropriation of solar energy technologies. The suggested improvements and recommendations of the present study from the analysis can serve as a guide for policy makers, technological innovators, and financial stakeholders. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:364–375. © 2020 SETAC

KEY POINTS

Review the concept of poverty with respect to the energy sector and analyze methods of determining poor energy access. The suggested improvements and recommendations of this work can serve as a guide for policymakers, technological innovators, and financial stakeholders to better understand off-grid renewable energy markets.
Hyperspectral imaging as a diagnostic tool to differentiate between amalgam tattoos and other dark pigmented intraoral lesions
Authors: Laimer Johannes , Bruckmoser Emanuel , Helten Tom , Kofler Barbara , Zelger Bettina , Brunner Andrea , Zelger Bernhard , Huck Christian W. , Tappert Michelle , Rogge Derek , Schirmer Michael , Pallua Johannes D.
Published: November 2020

The goal of this project is to identify any in‐depth benefits and drawbacks in the diagnosis of amalgam tattoos and other pigmented intraoral lesions using hyperspectral imagery collected from amalgam tattoos, benign, and malignant melanocytic neoplasms. Software solutions capable of classifying pigmented lesions of the skin already exist, but conventional red, green and blue images may be reaching an upper limit in their performance. Emerging technologies, such as hyperspectral imaging (HSI) utilize more than a hundred, continuous data channels, while also collecting data in the infrared. A total of 18 paraffin‐embedded human tissue specimens of dark pigmented intraoral lesions (including the lip) were analyzed using visible and near‐infrared (VIS–NIR) hyperspectral imagery obtained from HE‐stained histopathological slides. Transmittance data were collected between 450 and 900 nm using a snapshot camera mounted to a microscope with a halogen light source. VIS–NIR spectra collected from different specimens, such as melanocytic cells and other tissues (eg, epithelium), produced distinct and diagnostic spectra that were used to identify these materials in several regions of interest, making it possible to distinguish between intraoral amalgam tattoos (intramucosal metallic foreign bodies) and melanocytic lesions of the intraoral mucosa and the lip (each with P < .01 using the independent t test). HSI is presented as a diagnostic tool for the rapidly growing field of digital pathology. In this preliminary study, amalgam tattoos were reliably differentiated from melanocytic lesions of the oral cavity and the lip.
Cardiac injury is associated with inflammation in geriatric COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Yan Xu , Wang Shuang , Ma Piyong , Yang Bo , Si Daoyuan , Liu Guohui , Liu Long , Ding Mei , Yang Wen , Li Jiayu , Sun Huan , Yang Ping
Published: November 2020

Background

Geriatric patients with coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) are at high risk of developing cardiac injury. Identifying the factors that affect high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin I may indicate the cause of cardiac injury in elderly patients, and this could hopefully assist in protecting heart function in this patient population.

Methods

One hundred and eighty inpatients who were admitted for COVID‐19 were screened. Patients older than 60 years were included in this study, and the clinical characteristics and laboratory results of the cohort were analyzed. The correlation between cardiac injury and clinical/laboratory variables was statistically analyzed, and further logistic regression was performed to determine how these variables influence cardiac injury in geriatric patients.

Results

Age (p < 0.001) significantly correlated with cardiac injury, whereas sex (p = 0.372) and coexisting diseases did not. Rising procalcitonin (p = 0.001), interleukin‐2 receptor (p < 0.001), interleukin 6 (p = 0.001), interleukin 10 (p < 0.001), tumor necrosis factor α (p = 0.001), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (p = 0.001), D‐dimer (p < 0.001), white blood cells (p < 0.001), neutrophils (p = 0.001), declining lymphocytes (p < 0.001), and natural killer cells (p = 0.005) were associated with cardiac injury and showed predictive ability in the multivariate logistic regression.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that age and inflammatory factors influence cardiac injury in elderly patients. Interfering with inflammation in this patient population may potentially confer cardiac protection.