bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foetal Nasal Bone Length Measurement and Evolving Normogram in Southern Indian Population in Normal Pregnancies: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Jain RB Prakash , Kotnis Sanket M , Roopa HN
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Assessment of the foetus to detect aneuploidies between 12 to 24 weeks of gestation is an integral part of the ultrasound scanning. Absence or hypoplastic nasal bone is a very important marker of foetal aneuploidy. Thus, identifying the range of foetal Nasal Bone Length (NBL) in normal gestation is very important to screen for aneuploidies. Aim: This study aimed at ascertaining the reference range of foetal NBL between 11 to 24 weeks of pregnancy. Materials and Methods: A multicentre, cross-sectional study was conducted from 2018 to 2020. After obtaining Ethical approvals from each centre, NBL was measured in 826 patients between 11-24 weeks of pregnancy. Transabdominal scans were performed and the data was used to construct the NBL normogram for this Gestational Age (GA). Linear regression analysis was used to analyse the relationship between NBL and Gestational Age. Scatter plots for NBL as function of GA was constructed. The 5th and 50th percentile values were calculated for each gestational week. Results: With one unit increase in GA (weeks), NBL increased by 0.402 times (r=0.897, p<0.001). Mean NBL was 4.05 mm. The medians NBL for 12-14 weeks were 2.1-2.5 mm, 15-18 weeks was 3.0-4.6 mm, 19-21 weeks was 5.3-5.8 mm, 22-24 weeks was 6.0-6.6 mm. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of nasal bone evaluation in the second trimester of pregnancy to detect foetuses with Down syndrome. Since NBL increases linearly with GA, it aids detecting the hypoplastic nasal bone at different GA.
Знаковые объекты горной гряды Сундуки — древние обсерватории или творение природы?, "Природа"
Authors: Нестеренко А.Р.
Published: April 2021

Горную гряду Сундуки называют страной древнейших пирамид, мистических объектов поклонения, сакральных «мест силы» и, конечно же, древнейших обсерваторий, подобных Стоунхенджу. Петроглифы, отмечающие знаковые астрономические объекты, относят к периоду верхнего палеолита (от 50 000 до 10 000 лет назад). Ответ на вопрос о принадлежности знаковых объектов горной гряды к астрономическим сооружениям может дать археоастрономия. Ранее для исследований знаковых объектов, проводимых под руководством известного археолога В.Е.Ларичева, привлекались специалисты по геодезической съемке. Вместе с тем, за все время изучения (более 30 лет) Сундуки были обделены вниманием геологов. В результате геологических исследований, проведенных во время второго Всероссийского полевого семинара по археоастрономии, было определено, что предполагаемые археоастрономические объекты в урочище Сундуки и на горе Тарпинг представляют собой природные образования и имеют естественное происхождение, которое связано с особенностями залегания горных пород и с разрушением скальной поверхности в результате процессов выветривания.
Preparation and Evaluation of Pan Bread from Chia Seeds Powder as Substitute Wheat Flour
Authors: Boriy G. E. , Yousef Eman A. , Rabou Eman A. A. Abd
Published: April 2021

As part of this functional food covenant, the world is searching for new healthy food products with ample quantities of bioactive components such as fibre, mineral elements, essential amino acids, and phenols. Since CHIA seeds powder has both nutritious and pharmaceutical  properties, integrating it into pan bread  may be  beneficial  to  human  health. The sensorial parameters of pan bread enriched with CSP, amino acids composition, and proximate  compositions  of the pan bread were investigated in this study by partially replacing  wheat  flour (WF) with  CHIA  seeds  powder  (CSP) at  levels  of  3  percent, 6  percent, 9 percent, and 12 percent. The addition of CSP to pan bread  improved  the mineral content of the bread. With  only  a minor depreciation in bread  quality, CSP could  partially replace  WF  72 percent extraction in pan bread, increasing its nutritional value in terms of  fibre, essential amino acids, and minerals. Sensorial evaluation revealed that pan bread supplemented with up to 12% CSP was acceptable to the panelists, with notable differences in crumb texture, appearance, crust color, crumb grain, taste, odor, and overall acceptability as compared to pan  bread   control. When compared  to  pan bread  without  CSP, the CSP  mixture  increased the mineral  content, essential  amino  acid  content, and nutritional   properties.
The Implementation of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Plan for Chicken Nugget Plant
Authors: Asaduzzaman Md.
Published: April 2021

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) is a protective approach alarmed with not only food manufacturing but also storage safety. Now-a-days this system has become vital tool for dealings involving different types and kinds of foodstuffs. This perseverance was to established exact HACCP proposal for Bangladeshi chicken nugget manufacturing plant in a current poultry processing plant in Kishoreganj, Dhaka. A precise broad HACCP model was established to develop consumption security and quality of chicken nugget processed in this manufacturing plant. This study was based on genuine circumstances in the chicken nugget manufacturing plant, HACCP’s seven principles and several current general models such as Bangladesh Standards & Testing Institution (BSTI), HALAL, ISO 9001:2015, and ISO 22000, YUM Quality Systems Audit of HACCP utilize through investigation which is also known as qualitative methodology. Under taking the consideration all factors of HACCP such as flow-chart, corrective action, verification procedures, Critical control point monitoring requirements and record-keeping were originated, a HACCP team established in the factory. Three Critical control points (CCP) were acknowledged in the manufacture of chicken nugget in this processing plant. The most important identified CCPs were Supply of ingredients and raw material; packaging material; Proper temperature and time for oil frying and proper examination during packing for foreign and unwanted materials of final product. Therefore, HACCP system should be established in each and every poultry processing facilities, recommended by author.
Philately’s Implications in Ecological Education via Romanian Thematic Joint Issues (V) - Regarding the 3rd Colaboration with WWF
Authors: Cioruța Bogdan-Vasile , Coman Mirela , Pop Alexandru Leonard
Published: April 2021

The collaboration of the Romanian postal administration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and its purely philatelic interpretations, was limited to the introduction in the postal circulation, starting with 1977, of philatelic issues aiming at the protection of various endangered species. Thus, in addition to the issues that appeared in 1977 and 1984, towards the end of 1994, a third philatelic issue appeared. This, entitled "World Wide Fund for Nature", illustrates various species of fish, most of which are also found in aquatic ecosystems in Romania. In this context, the purpose of this paper is to make known to the public and to widely promote the term of protection and sustainable management of habitats and those endangered species, as an alarm signal of their condition. The results of the research undertaken emphasize once again the mass character of thematic philately and the fundamental role - as an ambassador of the promotion of knowledge - that it has had over time, and still has. Regarding the philatelic issues studied, in terms of the rich material reproduced (postage stamps, blocks and other forms of pagination, first day covers - FDCs, illustrated and maximum postcards, occasional envelopes, and postal circulation), it can be stated that it highlights another concern of the WWF (conservation of fish species), from the perspective of promoting natural capital.
Effect of Organic Amendments on Soil Carbon Stock, Yield and Quality of Sugarcane Ratoon
Authors: Priyadarshi Rashmi , Thakur S. K. , Jha C. K. , Singh S. K.
Published: April 2021

A field experiment was conducted during 2018-20 to evaluate the effect of different organic amendments on yield and quality of sugarcane ratoon in calcareous soil at Crop Research Centre, farm at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with 8 treatments viz. control, FYM (farmyard manure) @ 20 t ha-1, biocompost (BC) @ 20 t ha-1, vermicompost (VC) @ 5.0 t ha-1, green manure with moong, sugarcane trash @ 10 t ha-1, FYM + BC+ VC (1: 1: 0.5) @ 20 t ha-1 and recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) as NPK (170: 50: 60 kg ha-1) and replicated thrice in sugarcane plant-ratoon system. The sugarcane plant crop was taken and after harvest of plant, the ratoon crop was initiated. Addition of organic amendments significantly increased the number of tillers, millable cane and ratoon cane yield which was at par with recommended dose of fertilizer. The cane juice quality was not affected due to different treatments. The mean cane yield (61.7 - 77.1 t ha-1) and sugar yield (4.06-10.56 t ha-1) varied significantly in organic added plots t ha-1 which was found at par with RDF. The sugar yield followed the similar trends of cane yield. The SMBC (soil microbial biomass carbon), CO2 evolution and carbon stocks were significantly higher in organic amendment added plots indicating improvement in soil carbon status. The highest value of CO2 evolution, SMBC and carbon stocks were observed in the treatment receiving FYM+BC+VC in combination (1: 1: 0.5). Organic amendments had beneficial impact on restoration of soil carbon status, cane and sugar yield of ratoon crop of sugarcane in calcareous soil.
Genomic Characterization and Plasmid Profile of Listeria and Salmonella Species Isolated from Oreochromis niloticus Sold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbonna D. N. , Odu N. N. , Daminabo V.
Published: April 2021

Fish are generally regarded as safe, nutritious and beneficial but aquaculture products have sometimes been associated with certain food safety issues. Consumption of fish may also cause diseases due to infection or intoxication, Hence, the aim of this study is to characterize using genomic analysis and plasmid profile of Listeria and Salmonella species isolated from Oreochromis niloticus sold in Port Harcourt. A total of one hundred and eighty samples (180) were collected from three different markets namely; Creek road, Mile one and Rumuokoro markets over a period of six months. The samples were labelled and transported in an ice packed coolers to the laboratory for analyses. Standard analytical protocols were employed to determine the bacteriological characteristics of the various parts such as Intestine, Gill, flesh of the sample. Statistical analyses were carried out using ANOVA and All pairs tukey-kramer. Results obtained from the study showed that the total heterotrophic bacteria count ranged from 5.1 to 5.9 x10 x106cfu/g across the markets for the flesh part, 6.0 to 7.7 x106 cfu/g (Gill) and 7.1 to 7.6 x106 cfu/g for the intestinal samples. Total coliform count ranged from 4.2 to 5.4 x104cfu/g (flesh), 5.2 to 5.4 x104 cfu/g ((Gill) and 6.1 to 8.0 x104 cfu/g (Intestine). Listeria count range from 2.7 to 2.9 x104 cfu/g (Fresh), 3.3 to 3.7 cfu/g (Gill)), and 3.8 to 4.3 cfu/g (Intestine), and Salmonella count ranged from 1.0 x103 - 1 .1 x103 cfu/g (Flesh) 1.0 to 1.6 x103 cfu/g (Gill) and 1.2 to 2.0 x103 cfu/g (intestine). This results shows that the intestines harbours more bacterial load than the gill and flesh. Mean values for all the microbial counts were significantly different (P<0.05) in the three samples across the sampled markets The result of the conventional and genomics identification confirms the following species of Listeria and Salmonella: L. grayi VD-Sfg with accession number MW020239 having a closest gene bank match with Listeria grayi CIP 100% identified, L. monocytogenes VD-Sfg with accession number MW020240 closest to L. monocytogenes NCTC 10357 with 99.73% identified, L. seeligeri VD-SFF accession number MW020241 closet to L. seeligeri ATCC 35967 with 98.95%, L. welshimeri VD-SF MW020242 closest to L. welshimeri ATCC 35897 with 99.9%, L. monocytogenes VD-Fg MW020243 closet to L. monocytogenes NCTC 10357 eith 99.73% identity, S. bongori VD-SwfiA MW020245 closest to S. bongori NCTC 12419 and S. enterica VD-SwfiD MW20244 closest with S. entrica LT2 both with 100% identity. Gel electrophoresis of the plasmid DNA showed that all the isolates possess plasmid. This finding is of public health concern as these organisms are the known causes of food-borne diseases and also serve as reservoirs for resistance plasmids that may be transferred to otherwise susceptible bacteria making them resistant, thus increasing the occurrence of antibiotic resistance among microorganisms.
Evaluation of Antimicrobial activity and Genotoxic Potential of Capparis spinosa (L.) Plant Extracts
Authors: Adwan Ghaleb M. , Omar Ghadeer Ibrahim
Published: April 2021

Objective: The aims of this study were to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and the genotoxic effect of both ethanolic and aqueous extracts of stem and leaf of Capparis spinosa (C. spinosa) plant on Escherichia coli (E. coli) ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) ATCC 6538P, clinical isolate of Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) and Candida albicans (C. albicans) ATCC 90028.

Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity was determined using microbroth dilution method, while the genotoxic effect was investigated using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR.

Results: The MIC values of both ethanolic and aqueous leaf and stem extracts of C. spinosa plant had a range 6.25 mg/ml to 100 mg/ml. In addition, it was found that ethanolic extract more effective than aqueous extract. The genotoxic activity of aqueous leaf extract, showed changes in both Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR and Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC)-PCR profiles of E. coli strain treated with extract compared to untreated (negative) control. These changes included an alteration in the intensity, absence or appearance of new amplified fragments.

Conclusions: Results of this study strongly show the genotoxic effect of aqueous leaf extract from C. spinosa plant on E. coli. The findings draw awareness to the possible toxic effect use of C. spinosa plant in traditional medicine and point out the capability of using C. spinosa to treat bacterial or fungal infections. More studies are needed to detect the exact ingredients of this plant as well as the mechanisms responsible for genotoxicity. Further in vivo genotoxicity studies are recommended to ensure and to evaluate the safety of using plants for therapeutic purposes. In addition, results of this study showed that molecular fingerprinting based on ERIC-PCR can be used to evaluate the genotoxic effect in the model bacterial species E. coli.
Biocatalytic Application of a Membrane‐Bound Coumarin C‐Glucosyltransferase in the Synthesis of Coumarin and Benzofuran C‐Glucosides
Authors: Chen Dawei , Fan Shuai , Yang Zhaoyong , Dai Jungui
Published: April 2021

A number of plant C‐glycosyltransferases (CGTs) have been recently identified, whereas the coumarin CGTs have not been found. Here we reported the first identification of a coumarin C‐glucosyltransferase MaCGT fromMorus alba. The whole‐cell biocatalyst harboring MaCGT was exploited and exhibited strictly and efficiently regio‐ and stereo‐specific C‐glucosylation capacity toward structurally different coumarins. The whole‐cell of MaCGT was further applied to chemo‐enzymatically synthesize benzofuran C‐glucosides. Moreover, MaCGT is reported as the first characterized membrane‐bound CGT from plants, although sequence homology search has shown other potentially membrane‐bound CGTs fromM. notabilis; and the presence of the transmembrane domain is critical for its catalytic activity and stability as demonstrated by the C‐glucosylation activity of truncated MaCGT proteins. In addition, the key residues involved in the C‐glucosylation of MaCGT were explored. These findings suggest the diversity of CGTs in the plant kingdom and demonstrate the significant potential of biocatalytic approach to produce structurally diverse C‐glycosides for drug discovery.

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Manganese‐Catalyzed Selective Hydrogenative Cross‐Coupling of Nitriles and Amines to Form Secondary Imines
Authors: Li Xiao‐Gen , Zhou Qi‐Lin
Published: April 2021

Manganese complexes with tridentate PNN ligands have been synthesized as catalysts for hydrogenative cross‐coupling reaction of nitriles and amines to form secondary imines. This reaction afforded a variety of unsymmetrical secondary imines in good yields with excellent selectivity. Investigation of catalyst intermediates indicated that an amido manganese complex may be the active catalyst species for this reaction.

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Growth and fecundity of colonizing hybrid Raphanus populations are environmentally dependent
Authors: Shukla Kruti , Laursen Andrew E. , Benavides Jessica , Ejbari Neda , Campbell Lesley G.
Published: April 2021

Premise

Hybrid gene pools harbor more genetic variation than progenitor populations. Thus, we expect hybrid populations to exhibit more dynamic evolutionary responses to environmental variation. We ask how environmental variation experienced by adapted and transplanted populations influence the success of late‐generation hybrid populations during invasion.

Methods

For four generations, 20 wild (Raphanus raphanistrum) and 20 hybrid radish (R. sativus × R. raphanistrum) plant populations evolved under experimentally manipulated moisture conditions (dry, wet, control‐sheltered, or control‐unsheltered plots; i.e., evolutionary environment) in old fields near Toronto, Canada. We planted advanced‐generation wild and hybrid radishes in sheltered plots and exposed them to either an evolutionary or a novel watering environment. To determine how soil moisture would influence invasion success, we compared the phenotype and fecundity of plants grown in these various environments.

Results

Hybridization produced larger plants. In wet environments, hybrid seedlings emerged more frequently and expressed higher photosynthetic activity. Low‐moisture, novel conditions delayed and reduced seedling emergence frequency. Hybrid plants and those that evolved under relatively wet environments exhibited higher aboveground biomass. Hybrid plants from control‐sheltered plots colonizing novel moisture environments were more fecund than comparable wild plants.

Conclusions

Dry environments are less likely than other evolutionary environments to contribute colonists. However, relatively wet locations support the evolution of relatively fecund plants, especially crop‐wild hybrid populations. Thus, our results provide a strong mechanistic explanation for variation in the relative success of crop‐wild hybrids among study locations and a new standard for studies that assess the risk of crop‐wild hybridization events.
Cerebrovascular Neuroprotection after Acute Concussion in Adolescents
Authors: Aaron Stacey E. , Hamner Jason W. , Ozturk Erin D. , Hunt Danielle L. , Iaccarino Mary Alexis , Meehan William P. , Howell David R. , Tan Can Ozan
Published: April 2021

Objective

To assess acute cerebrovascular function in concussed adolescents (14–21 years of age), whether it is related to resting cerebral hemodynamics, and whether it recovers chronically.

Methods

Cerebral vasoreactivity and autoregulation, based on middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity, was assessed in 28 concussed participants (≤14 days of injury) and 29 matched controls. The participants in the concussion group returned for an 8‐week follow‐up assessment. Over the course of those 8‐weeks, participants recorded aerobic exercise frequency and duration.

Results

Between groups, demographic, clinical, and hemodynamic variables were not significantly different. Vasoreactivity was significantly higher in the concussed group (p = 0.02). Within the concussed group, 60% of the variability in resting cerebral blood flow velocity was explained by vasoreactivity and two components of autoregulation – falling slope and effectiveness of autoregulation (adjusted R2 = 0.60, p < 0.001). Moreover, lower mean arterial pressure, lower responses to increases in arterial pressure, and lower vasoreactivity were significantly associated with larger symptom burden (adjusted R2 = 0.72, p < 0.01). By the 8‐week timepoint, symptom burden, but not vasoreactivity, improved in all but four concussed participants (p < 0.01). 8‐week change in vasoreactivity was positively associated with aerobic exercise volume (adjusted R2 = 0.19, p = 0.02).

Interpretation

Concussion resulted in changes in cerebrovascular regulatory mechanisms, which in turn explained the variability in resting cerebral blood flow velocity and acute symptom burden. Furthermore, these alterations persisted chronically despite symptom resolution, but was positively modified by aerobic exercise volume. These findings provide a mechanistic framework for further investigation into underlying cerebrovascular related symptomatology. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:43–51
Azobispyrazole Family as Photoswitches Combining (Near‐) Quantitative Bidirectional Isomerization and Widely Tunable Thermal Half‐Lives from Hours to Years**
Authors: He Yixin , Shangguan Zhichun , Zhang Zhao‐Yang , Xie Mingchen , Yu Chunyang , Li Tao
Published: April 2021

Azobenzenes are classical molecular photoswitches that have been widely used. In recent endeavors of molecular design, replacing one or both phenyl rings with heteroaromatic rings has emerged as a strategy to expand molecular diversity and access improved photoswitching properties. Many mono‐heteroaryl azo molecules with unique structures and/or properties have been developed, but the potential of bis‐heteroaryl architectures is far from fully exploited. We report a family of azobispyrazoles, which combine (near‐)quantitative bidirectional photoconversion and widely tunable Z‐isomer thermal half‐lives from hours to years. The two five‐membered rings remarkably weaken the intramolecular steric hindrance, providing new possibilities for engineering the geometric and electronic structure of azo photoswitches. Azobispyrazoles generally exhibit twisted Z‐isomers that facilitate complete Z→E photoisomerization, and their thermal stability can be broadly adjusted regardless of the twisted shape, overcoming the conflict between photoconversion (favored by the twisted shape) and Z‐isomer stability (favored by the orthogonal shape) encountered by mono‐heteroaryl azo switches.
Discovery of Oligosaccharide Antigens for Semi‐Synthetic Glycoconjugate Vaccine Leads against Streptococcus suis Serotypes 2, 3, 9 and 14**
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Sella Mauro , Sianturi Julinton , Priegue Patricia , Shen Dacheng , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: April 2021

Streptococcus suis bacteria are one of the most serious health problems for pigs and an emerging zoonotic agent in humans working in the swine industry. S. suis bacteria express capsular polysaccharides (CPS) a major bacterial virulence factor that define the serotypes. Oligosaccharides resembling the CPS of S. suis serotypes 2, 3, 9, and 14 have been synthesized, glycans related to serotypes 2 and 9 were placed on glycan array surfaces to screen blood from infected pigs. Lead antigens for the development of semi‐synthetic S. suis serotypes 2 and 9 glycoconjugate veterinary vaccines were identified in this way.
Sub‐Second Time‐Resolved Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Reveals Dynamic CO Intermediates during Electrochemical CO2 Reduction on Copper
Authors: An Hongyu , Wu Longfei , Mandemaker Laurens D. B. , Yang Shuang , de Ruiter Jim , Wijten Jochem H. J. , Janssens Joris C. L. , Hartman Thomas , van der Stam Ward , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: April 2021

The electrocatalytic carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction reaction (CO2RR) into hydrocarbons is a promising approach for greenhouse gas mitigation, but many details of this dynamic reaction remain elusive. Here, time‐resolved surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TR‐SERS) is employed to successfully monitor the dynamics of CO2RR intermediates and Cu surfaces with sub‐second time resolution. Anodic treatment at 1.55 V vs. RHE and subsequent surface oxide reduction (below −0.4 V vs. RHE) induced roughening of the Cu electrode surface, which resulted in hotspots for TR‐SERS, enhanced time resolution (down to ≈0.7 s) and fourfold improved CO2RR efficiency toward ethylene. With TR‐SERS, the initial restructuring of the Cu surface was followed (<7 s), after which a stable surface surrounded by increased local alkalinity was formed. Our measurements revealed that a highly dynamic CO intermediate, with a characteristic vibration below 2060 cm−1, is related to C−C coupling and ethylene production (−0.9 V vs. RHE), whereas lower cathodic bias (−0.7 V vs. RHE) resulted in gaseous CO production from isolated and static CO surface species with a distinct vibration at 2092 cm−1.
Isolation and Reactivity of Uranyl Superoxide
Authors: Kravchuk Dmytro V. , Dahlen Nicholas N. , Kruse Samantha J. , Malliakas Christos D. , Shand Paul M. , Forbes Tori Z.
Published: April 2021

The high radiation field associated with spent nuclear fuel (UIVO2) pellets produces an array of reactive radical species that impact the corrosion and formation of secondary alteration phases. Dioxygen radicals are important as radiolysis products, but the interaction between these reactive oxygen species and UVIO22+ and its effects on the resultant alteration phases is unclear. We report the first example of a UVI superoxide compound and explore its reactivity in the environments relevant to the storage of spent nuclear fuel. We utilized X‐ray diffraction and Raman scattering techniques to demonstrate that the uranyl superoxide reacts with CO2 in air to afford a mixed uranyl peroxide/carbonate within 3 days, both in solution and under atmospheric conditions. An additional transformation occurs over the course of 3 months to form a potassium UVI carbonate (grimselite), which also occurs as an alteration product on Chernobyl corium. Our results demonstrate the presence and significance of the superoxide anion in the alteration of spent nuclear fuel and indicate the impact of uranyl superoxide chemistry on high prevalence of carbonate in the secondary phases of spent nuclear fuel.
Recent advances of natural fibers based green rubber composites: Properties, current status, and future perspectives
Authors: Roy Kumarjyoti , Debnath Subhas Chandra , Pongwisuthiruchte Aphiwat , Potiyaraj Pranut
Published: April 2021

The searching of suitable alternatives to petroleum‐based fillers is an uncompromising challenge in present day rubber research. Recently, natural fibers are the part of great attention of both academic and industrial researchers due to their easy availability, environmental friendliness, and biodegradability. Natural fiber is cellulose‐rich material, which is preferentially used as alternative filler in rubber technology. This article reviews current advances in natural fibers filled rubber composites in terms of mechanical, thermal, and biodegradable properties (2010–2020). The incorporation of unmodified natural fibers as filler is not able to offer desired reinforcement in rubber composites. Several surface modification methods can be introduced to improve the overall performances of natural fibers filled rubber composites. Finally, the review clarifies present status and future prospects of natural fibers based advanced rubber composites in automobile industry. The successful designing of natural fibers based sustainable rubber composites can introduce a new era in green rubber technology.
Prostaglandin production by the microalga with heterologous expression of cyclooxygenase
Authors: Maeda Yoshiaki , Tsuru Yuki , Matsumoto Nana , Nonoyama Tomomi , Yoshino Tomoko , Matsumoto Mitsufumi , Tanaka Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2021

Prostaglandins (PGs) are the physiologically active compounds synthesized from C20 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) by cyclooxygenase (COX) and a series of PG synthases, and are utilized as pharmaceuticals. Currently, commercialized PGs are mainly produced by chemical synthesis under harsh conditions. By contrast, bioproduction of PGs can be an alternative, environmental‐friendly, and inexpensive process with genetic engineering of model plants, although these conventional host organisms contain a limited quantity of PG precursors. In this study, we established an efficient PG production process using the genetically engineered microalga Fistulifera solaris which is rich in C20 PUFAs. A cox gene derived from the red alga Agarophyton vermiculophyllum was introduced into F. solaris. As a result, a transformant clone with high cox expression produced PGs (i.e., PGD2, PGE2, PGF2α, and 15‐ketoPGF2α derived from arachidonic acid, and PGD3, PGE3, and PGF3α derived from eicosapentaenoic acid) as revealed by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. The total content of PGs was 1290.4 ng/g of dry cell weight, which was higher than that produced in the transgenic plant reported previously. The results obtained in this study indicate that the C20 PUFA‐rich microalga functionally expressing COX is a promising host for PG bioproduction.
microRNA‐129 overexpression in endothelial cell‐derived extracellular vesicle influences inflammatory response caused by myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Zheng Shiyu , Wang Lishuang , Ma Hongyan , Sun Feng , Wen Fuxing
Published: April 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have the potency to function as modulators in the process of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. This investigation was performed to decipher the mechanism of human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs)‐derived EVs in myocardial I/R injury with the involvement of microRNA‐129 (miR‐129). HUVECs‐secreted EVs were collected and identified. An I/R mouse model was developed, and cardiomyocytes were used for vitro oxygen‐glucose deprivation/reperfusion model establishment. Differentially expressed miRNAs in myocardial tissues after EV treatment were assessed using microarray analysis. The target relationship between miR‐129 and toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) was identified using a dual‐luciferase assay. Gain‐ and loss‐function studies regarding miR‐129 were implemented to figure out its roles in myocardial I/R injury. Meanwhile, the activation of the nuclear factor‐kappa‐binding (NF‐κB) p65 signaling and NOD‐like receptor 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome was evaluated. EVs diminished the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes and the secretion of inflammatory factors, and all these trends were reversed by miR‐129 reduction. miR‐129 bound to the 3′‐untranslated region of TLR4 directly. The NF‐κB p65 signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome were abnormally activated after I/R injury, whose impairment after EVs was partially restored by miR‐129 downregulation. This study illustrated that EVs could carry miR‐129 to mitigate myocardial I/R injury via downregulating TLR4 and disrupting the NF‐κB signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome.
Controlling for activity‐dependent genes and behavioral states is critical for determining brain relationships within and across species
Authors: Biegler Matthew T. , Cantin Lindsey J. , Scarano Danielle L. , Jarvis Erich D.
Published: April 2021

The genetic profile of vertebrate pallia has long driven debate on homology across distantly related clades. Based on an expression profile of the orphan nuclear receptor NR4A2 in mouse and chicken brains, Puelles et al. (The Journal of Comparative Neurology, 2016, 524, 665–703) concluded that the avian lateral mesopallium is homologous to the mammalian claustrum, and the medial mesopallium homologous to the insula cortex. They argued that their findings contradict conclusions by Jarvis et al. (The Journal of Comparative Neurology, 2013, 521, 3614–3665) and Chen et al. (The Journal of Comparative Neurology, 2013, 521, 3666–3701) that the hyperpallium densocellare is instead a mesopallium cell population, and by Suzuki and Hirata (Frontiers in Neuroanatomy, 2014, 8, 783) that the avian mesopallium is homologous to mammalian cortical layers 2/3. Here, we find that NR4A2 is an activity‐dependent gene and cannot be used to determine brain organization or species relationships without considering behavioral state. Activity‐dependent NR4A2 expression has been previously demonstrated in the rodent brain, with the highest induction occurring within the claustrum, amygdala, deep and superficial cortical layers, and hippocampus. In the zebra finch, we find that NR4A2 is constitutively expressed in the arcopallium, but induced in parts of the mesopallium, and in sparse cells within the hyperpallium, depending on animal stimulus or behavioral state. Basal and induced NR4A2 expression patterns do not discount the previously named avian hyperpallium densocellare as dorsal mesopallium and conflict with proposed homology between the avian mesopallium and mammalian claustrum/insula at the exclusion of other brain regions. Broadly, these findings highlight the importance of controlling for behavioral state and neural activity to genetically define brain cell population relationships within and across species.
Magnetic Resonance Detection of Gas Microbubbles via HyperCEST: A Path Toward Dual Modality Contrast Agent
Authors: McHugh Christian T. , Durham Phillip G. , Kelley Michele , Dayton Paul A. , Branca Rosa T.
Published: April 2021

Gas microbubbles are an established clinical ultrasound contrast agent. They could also become a powerful magnetic resonance (MR) intravascular contrast agent, but their low susceptibility‐induced contrast requires high circulating concentrations or the addition of exogenous paramagnetic nanoparticles for MR detection. In order to detect clinical in vivo concentrations of raw microbubbles via MR, an alternative detection scheme must be used. HyperCEST is an NMR technique capable of indirectly detecting signals from very dilute molecules (concentrations well below the NMR detection threshold) that exchange hyperpolarized 129Xe. Here, we use quantitative hyperCEST to show that microbubbles are very efficient hyperCEST agents. They can accommodate and saturate millions of 129Xe atoms at a time, allowing for their indirect detection at concentrations as low as 10 femtomolar. The increased MR sensitivity to microbubbles achieved via hyperCEST can bridge the gap for microbubbles to become a dual modality contrast agent.
Infrared and NMR Spectroscopic Fingerprints of the Asymmetric H7+O3 Complex in Solution
Authors: Kozari Eve , Sigalov Mark , Pines Dina , Fingerhut Benjamin P. , Pines Ehud
Published: April 2021

The front cover artwork is provided by the groups of Prof. Ehud Pines (BGU, Israel) and Dr. Benjamin Fingerhut (MBI, Berlin). The image shows a scientist integrating experiments with theory for resolving the structural diffusion of the aqueous proton in acetonitrile providing a novel view on the Grotthuss mechanism. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.202001046.
Copper(I) Complexes of P‐Stereogenic Josiphos and Related Ligands
Authors: Arthurs Ross A. , Dean Alice C. , Hughes David L. , Richards Christopher J.
Published: April 2021

Starting from (R)‐Ugi's amine, diastereoselective lithiation followed by Ar'PCl2 and then Ar’’MgBr led to the generation, as single diastereoisomers, of (R,Sp,Sphos) [Ar’=Ph, Ar’’=o‐Tol] and (R,Sp,Rphos) [Ar’=o‐Tol, Ar’’=Ph] PPFA ligand derivatives. Amine substitution of both with HPCy2 gave P‐stereogenic Josiphos ligands, and then addition of CuCl, the corresponding copper(I) complexes. The latter were also generated by using borane P and N protecting groups and in situ Cu(I) complexation, avoiding the isolation of air‐sensitive phosphine intermediates. This protection methodology was also applied to the synthesis of Josiphos/CuCl complexes derived from PCl3. In addition, related bulky cobalt‐sandwich complex‐based derivatives were also obtained. Preliminary investigation revealed isolated CuCl complexes as competent catalyst precursors for enantioselective conjugate addition reactions.
In Situ Preparation of Palladium Nanoparticles for C‐2 Selective Arylation of Indoles in Agro‐Waste Extract Based Mixed Solvents
Authors: Sun Yajun , Wang Rui , Liu Tianxiang , Jin Weiwei , Wang Bin , Zhang Yonghong , Xia Yu , Liu Chenjiang
Published: April 2021

An efficient and practical method for the in situ generation of palladium nanoparticles was successfully established in a water extract of pomelo peel ash. The produced palladium nanoparticles were characterized by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy elemental mapping, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscope, X‐ray powder diffraction, and showed high catalytic activity for selective C‐2 arylation of indoles. A series of 2‐arylindoles were smoothly installed in moderate to good yields through the direct palladium‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions of indoles and iodoarenes without external ligand, base, oxidant, and preinstallation directing group.
A roadmap for bio‐medical waste management research
Authors: Shwetmala Kashyap , Arkalgud Ramaprasad , Anilkumar Munikrishnappa
Published: April 2021

Bio‐Medical waste is solid or liquid waste generated from healthcare activities. Bio‐Medical waste management (BMWM) is necessary to protect local community health and environment, to reduce its financial loss and to preserve its social and aesthetic values. BMWM encompasses the waste generation, segregation, collection, transportation, processing and disposal. The BMWM system is complex and challenging. The research on BMWM must address the complexity for the solutions to be effective. We present an ontology of BMWM to visualize the complexity of the system and analyse it systematically. The research corpus of all the 184 articles from Scopus on BMWM is mapped onto the ontology. Ontological and theme maps are generated to highlight the emphases and gaps in the research. The results show the roadmap of BMWM research with the dominant emphasis on its functional elements and outcomes. There is little emphasis on the composition of the waste, the stakeholders and the policy instruments that guide and regulate the system. Correcting the biases in the present research corpus will help develop effective research and practice. This review results can be used to develop a roadmap for research to improve the BMWM system.
Initiation of psychotropic medication in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19: Association with clinical and biological characteristics
Authors: Capuzzi Enrico , Caldiroli Alice , Leo Silvia , Buoli Massimiliano , Clerici Massimo
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Inpatients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) show a high rate of neuropsychiatric manifestations, possibly related to a higher risk of serious illness or death. Use of psychotropic medications (PMs) indicates the presence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in COVID‐19 patients. So far, potential clinical predictors of use of PMs have not been much investigated. In order to extend research in this area, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of PM prescription among a sample of inpatients with COVID‐19 and to find potential predictors of initiation of PMs in these individuals.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional single‐center study, conducted during the first outbreak peak in a hospital of northern Italy. Information on socio‐demographic characteristics, comorbidities, routine blood test, use of potential COVID‐19 treatments, and length of stay were retrieved from medical records.

Results

Data were available for 151 inpatients. Forty‐seven of them (31.1%) started at least one prescription of a PM. PM prescription was significantly inversely associated with lymphocyte and platelet counts. A significant association was also found for lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the initiation of PMs could be common among COVID‐19 inpatients. Lymphocyte and platelet counts as well as LDH levels may reflect neuropsychiatric complications of COVID‐19.
Challenges of irrigation water distribution from the viewpoint of socio‐hydraulic relations*
Authors: Delfan Azari Morteza , Parvaresh Rizi Atefeh
Published: April 2021

Evaluation of the hydraulic performance of irrigation structures should be used in proper planning of water distribution and the removal of social tensions at water user level. There are several hydraulic indicators that could be interpreted based on social realities. In this study, besides determination of water distribution and conveyance indicators of the Behbahan irrigation scheme, social status was investigated in relation to them. Accordingly, adequacy, dependability and equity indicators in this scheme are poor. Meanwhile, 54% of water users are not satisfied with the performance of water delivery. Based on the questionnaires, training about water distribution is the main request by water users. In this research with a different view about the evaluation of irrigation schemes, existing problems were described from the social perspective. The adequacy indicator is in good condition upstream of the network, while in downstream it is about 40%. Although the knowledge and awareness of water users upstream and downstream are almost equal, only 50% of downstream water users have a relative desire to participate in water services (68% for upstream water users) and their satisfaction is within 20% (62% for upstream water users). Finally, evaluation of hydraulic indicators will be completed and will solve more problems, by considering the social roots of the results.
Exploring factors related to supportive housing tenure and stability for people with serious mental illness
Authors: Leickly Emily , Townley Greg
Published: April 2021

Overall, the retention of people with serious mental illness (SMI) in supportive housing is high. However, some supportive housing settings report average stays of only 15 months, and others report declines in housing retention over time. Many studies report variables associated with supportive housing stability and tenure, but there are few extensive, focused investigations on the subject. Hence, a literature review was conducted to investigate factors associated with supportive housing stability and tenure among people with SMI. The review of the included 28 papers reveals that the factors associated with supportive housing stability and tenure fell into two general categories of individual factors (including psychiatric factors and prior homelessness), and contextual factors (including program characteristics and sense of community and social support). In conclusion, further focus on contextual factors, as well as a potential reframing of individual factors as contextual, may be helpful in addressing issues related to supportive housing stability and tenure for people with SMI.
Individual and social‐psychological factors to explain climate change efficacy: The role of mindfulness, sense of global community, and egalitarianism
Authors: Scafuto Francesca
Published: April 2021

This article focused on the study of individual and social‐psychological determinants of a sense of efficacy on climate change mitigation. A correlational study investigated the predictive role of mindfulness, egalitarianism, risk concern, knowledge, and psychological sense of global community (PSGC). An online survey was administrated to US College students (N = 277). The main predictors of climate change response efficacy (CCRE) were PSGC and egalitarianism, followed by risk concern and climate knowledge. Among the facets of mindfulness, observing, and describing were the only ones associated with CCRE. The results found that mindfulness observing predicted response efficacy both directly and through the mediation of risk concern and sense of global community. Conversely, egalitarianism was not a significant mediator. Community psychologists should promote a sense of belonging to all humanity, and a more egalitarian view of the world, beyond risk concern, to increase climate efficacy. Training the skill of mindfulness observing could be a way to produce a sense of global community and affect climate change efficacy.
Human antigen R promotes lung fibroblast differentiation to myofibroblasts and increases extracellular matrix production
Authors: Al‐Habeeb Fatmah , Aloufi Noof , Traboulsi Hussein , Liu Xingxing , Nair Parameswaran , Haston Christina , Azuelos Ilan , Huang Steven K. , White Eric S. , Gallouzi Imed E. , Di Marco Sergio , Eidelman David H. , Baglole Carolyn J.
Published: April 2021

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a disease of progressive scarring caused by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and activation of α‐SMA‐expressing myofibroblasts. Human antigen R (HuR) is an RNA binding protein that promotes protein translation. Upon translocation from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, HuR functions to stabilize messenger RNA (mRNA) to increase protein levels. However, the role of HuR in promoting ECM production, myofibroblast differentiation, and lung fibrosis is unknown. Human lung fibroblasts (HLFs) treated with transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) showed a significant increase in translocation of HuR from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. TGF‐β‐treated HLFs that were transfected with HuR small interfering RNA had a significant reduction in α‐SMA protein as well as the ECM proteins COL1A1, COL3A, and FN1. HuR was also bound to mRNA for ACTA2, COL1A1, COL3A1, and FN. HuR knockdown affected the mRNA stability of ACTA2 but not that of the ECM genes COL1A1, COL3A1, or FN. In mouse models of pulmonary fibrosis, there was higher cytoplasmic HuR in lung structural cells compared to control mice. In human IPF lungs, there was also more cytoplasmic HuR. This study is the first to show that HuR in lung fibroblasts controls their differentiation to myofibroblasts and consequent ECM production. Further research on HuR could assist in establishing the basis for the development of new target therapy for fibrotic diseases, such as IPF.
Rapid responses of adipocytes to iron overload increase serum TG level by decreasing adiponectin
Authors: Tang Yuxiao , Wang Dongyao , Zhang Hongwei , Zhang Yinyin , Wang Jie , Qi Ruirui , Yang Jianxin , Shen Hui , Xu Yan , Li Min
Published: April 2021

Iron overload is tightly connected with metabolic disorders. Excess iron in the adipose and its roles in dyslipidemia are of interest to be identified. In acute iron overload mice receiving intraperitoneal injection of 100 mg/kg/day dextran‐iron for 5 days, the epididymis adipose showed a remarkable increase in iron. Serum triglyceride and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels were increased and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) level was decreased, while serum alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, glucose, and insulin were not affected. The serum‐cytokine‐microarray showed that adipocytokines, including adiponectin, leptin, and resistin were significantly decreased. Other serum cytokines, including pro‐insulin cytokines, inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors were not changed, except that ghrelin and chemokine RANTES were increased. Iron overload decreased expressions of adiponectin and leptin both in vivo and in vitro. Intraperitoneal injection of recombinant leptin at 1 μg/g in acute iron overload mice had no significant effects on serum levels of TC, TG, HDL‐C, and LDL‐C, while intraperitoneal injection of recombinant adiponectin at 3 μg/g partially restored serum TG level through improving activities of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic lipase, but abnormal serum LDL‐C and HDL‐C were not redressed, suggesting other mechanisms also existed. In conclusion, the adipose responds to iron overload at an early stage to interfere with lipid metabolism by secreting adipocytokines, which may further affect glucose metabolism, inflammation, and other iron overload‐induced effects on the body.