bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Anti Cholesterol and Antioxidant Potentiality of Aqueous Extracts of Citrus aurantifolia, Zingiber officinale and its Formulation - a Comparative In vitro Study
Authors: Sivasubramanian Priyanka , Gayathri R. , Priya V. Vishnu , Selvaraj J. , Kavitha S.
Published: January 2022

Background: Several plant extracts and herbs have been used for treating and prevention of cardiovascular diseases hypertension, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis, cerebral and venous insufficiency and arrhythmia. Similarly, aqueous extracts of Citrus aurantifolia and Zingiber officinale which is commonly called as lemon and ginger respectively and its formulation were analysed for its antioxidant and anti cholesterol activity.

Objective: This research has been performed in order to evaluate the anti cholesterol and antioxidant potentiality of aqueous extracts of Citrus aurantifolia, Zingiber officinale and its formulation respectively.

Methods: The study setting carried out for this research was in vitro, hence the work was performed outside the living organism. Citrus aurantifolia and Zingiber officinale were purchased from a farm in chennai. The experiment began starting from the preparation of aqueous extract of lemon and ginger. A formulation was made combining equal amounts of the two extracts followed by this, a phytochemical screening test was conducted. Antioxidant and anti cholesterol potential of the extracts and its formulation were also analysed. The data was statistically examined by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) continued by Duncan’s multiple range test, it was compiled to see the statistical significance among the groups present. The results carrying p<0.05 level were contemplated to be statistically significant.

Result: From the study, though both the extracts possessed a good antioxidant and anti cholesterol potential, comparatively the formulation exhibited an increased antioxidant and anti cholesterol potential respectively (IC₅₀ = 250 µg/ml) and (IC₅₀= 375µg per ml). Here, the formulation exhibited significantly more activity than the individual extracts.

Conclusion: Even though there is sufficient knowledge among citizens about the nutritional value present in herbal formulations, there isn’t enough in-depth study conducted on the formulation of these two extracts based on their cholesterol inhibitory activity. From this particular study it was proven that the formulation showed synergism. Hence the formulation of these extracts could be preferred over other synthetic drugs since it is natural, cost effective and easily accessible.
Psychological Impact on Post-COVID Patients
Authors: Bongirwar Bramhni , Vagga Anjali
Published: January 2022

The most significant thing in a mental health disorder is its prevalence. Here we compare the consequences of pandemics on people’s mental health with the recordings of ASD & PTSD in the last forty years; we will prove that they are primarily different. The symptoms of mental disorders differ; therefore, the chances of good treatment differ are significantly less. We tend to cancel some chances of a new mental disorder, considering a new one can emerge from this pandemic. We have to determine the extent of what pandemics are doing to one’s mental state. The author planned medical care for immediate support.

 "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." Thus mental health is more than just the absence of mental disorders.

Mental health is a state of mind in which he can realize his capacities and abilities, cope with stress, and have optimal productivity.

Mental health is essential for a person for his own sake and the collective good of society; for good mental health, a person should be content with his life. Thus the prevention and restoration of mental health are essential for individuals and society. Multiple social, psychological, and biological factors are responsible for knowing a person's mental health.

Social factors, stressful conditions in the workplace, gender discrimination, and unhealthy lifestyle are also responsible for the detoriation of mental health. There are specific psychological and personality factors that make people vulnerable to mental health problems. Biological risks include genetic factor.
Awareness of Blood Pressure Changes during Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Joshitha . , Priya A. Jothi , Devi R. Gayatri
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Blood pressure is not constant at different days of the month and even throughout the day. Variation in BP during different phases in the menstrual cycle can also be attributed to the effect of the female hormones on cardiovascular systems. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the awareness of blood pressure changes during the menstrual cycle.

Aim: To Assess the Awareness of Blood Pressure Changes during Menstrual Cycle.

Materials and Methods: The sample size used for the study is 100. A self structured questionnaire was prepared and uploaded on google forms. This standard questionnaire in google forms was circulated. After which all the data was collected and the data was analysed using Chi square analysis. The Chi square analysis was done using SPSS software.

Result: We were able to establish a fair awareness about blood pressure changes during the menstrual cycle among our study population. It was statistically significant with p value of 0.037 (P<0.05).

Discussion: Variation in BP during different phases of the menstrual cycle can also be attributed to the effect of ovarian hormones on cardiovascular function. Since hormonal changes follow a non-linear trend throughout the menstrual cycle, it may have an unpredictable effect on BP regulation

Conclusion: There is a fair amount of awareness about blood pressure changes during menstruation among both women and men but women have more awareness.
Impact of Social Media on the Health of Individuals during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systemic Review
Authors: Wanjari Aryaki , Dhande Nikhil
Published: January 2022

Utilization of online media in the hours of Covid-19 pandemic contrarily affects the soundness of people. Patients had the option to take treatment for minor sicknesses through media transmission administrations. After the ascent in the number of instances of Coronavirus, a couple of patients were treated for Covid through telecom administrations given by specialists. Online media helped in conveying data about the pandemic. It has helped in proceeding with the academic year on the web. Individuals living at various places had the option to interface with one another as a result of web-based media. Then again there were many symptoms of utilizing online media like conveyance of falsehood, visual illnesses, uneasiness issues, sorrow, stationary way of life, weight and other pressure disorders. Although school terminations might be impermanent, further developed admittance to and utilization of such stages might rush the all inclusive acknowledgment of advanced devices over the long haul. Conduct changes brought about by expanding dependence on computerized contraptions might bear even after the COVID-19 pandemic. This danger should not be disregarded using social media like distribution of misinformation, ocular diseases, anxiety disorders, depression, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and other stress disorders. In spite of the fact that school terminations might be impermanent, further developed admittance to and utilization of such stages might hurry the all-inclusive acknowledgment of computerized apparatuses over the long haul. Social changes brought about by expanding dependence on computerized contraptions might persevere through even after the COVID-19 pandemic, and this is a danger that ought not be overlooked. This article aims to analyze and review the use and side effects of social media and health awareness during COVID-19 period. This study drew on data from various research articles on the relationship between social media's effects and side effects. Social media and health awareness have exhibited recent trends. Discussion of potential approaches to meeting the growing demand for social media and management of health has further increased concerns about the ocular diseases, obesity, mental health and telemedicine.
Vestibular Migraine in Adolescents
Authors: Vyawahare Anisha , Chakole Swarupa
Published: January 2022

Migraine is a recurrent throbbing headache that affects one side of the head and is usually related to nausea and decreased vision. Migraine is typically seen in adolescents due to increased use of electronic devices and computers. It is a non communicable disease.10 percent patients with migraine suffer from vestibular migraine. Vertigo in children can lead to migraine and continue in adults too. Preventing the vertigo attacks in children and adolescents can help in the treatment of migraine. Behavioural therapy is an important factor in treatment of migraine in this age. 40% of migraine patients have some associated vestibular symptoms which includes dizziness and disturbed balance. An elevated comorbidity of migraine and vertigo was discovered in several patient categories and later verified at the community level, far exceeding what random chance would predict. Vertigo is substantially more commonly seen in migraine sufferers, particularly those with aura, than in headache-free controls. Migraine is one of the most disturbing diseases in USA, is nearly as common as hypertension and more common than asthma and diabetes. Migraine and vestibular symptoms can coexist with inner ear disorders. It is a difficult condition to diagnose and treat. Multiple temporal patterns are responsible for this. The most common cause of vertigo in children is vestibular migraine (VM). Clinical findings and laboratory test results have been found in a sample of children and adolescents suffering from Vestibular migraine. Recent classification criteria for dizzy children are discussed and their limitations. Migraine is typically seen in adolescents due to increased use of electronic devices and computers. It is a non-communicable disease. 10 percent patients with migraine suffer from vestibular migraine.
Sexual Transmitted Disease among Youth
Authors: Pathak Akash , Sawal Anupma
Published: January 2022

Infections transmitted through sexual contact are known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There are ones that can be cured such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia infection as well as some that can’t be cured, but are modifiable ones like HIV, herpes simplex, HPV (human papilloma virus), and hepatitis B infections. It is estimated that 20% of individuals living with HIV/AIDS are in their twenties and that almost one out of twenty young adults contract an STI every year. Adolescents are more likely to practice unprotected sex, have more than one sexual partner, and have intergenerational and transactional sex. That’s why, the importance of sexual education should be taught. The cervical lining makes female adolescents and young women more susceptible to STIs. Moreover, they may have difficulties getting the information and services they need to avoid STIs, as well as difficulties locating STI prevention services. In addition, they may have difficulty locating STI prevention services, or they may not have transportation to go to the clinics or they may not be able to afford the treatments. In places that are not youth-friendly, they may feel uncomfortable, even if they can get STI prevention services.
Non‐English Language Preference Associated With Decreased Rheumatology Telehealth Use During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Thomason Jenna , Bays Alison , Mantilla Bryanna , Huang Irvin , Najjar Rayan , Singh Namrata , Wysham Katherine , Hughes Grant
Published: January 2022

Objective

The study objective was to assess sociodemographic disparities in telehealth use among patients in an urban adult rheumatology clinic during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, patient‐level sociodemographic data associated with all rheumatology visits in the following two periods were reviewed: pre‐COVID‐19 (March 1, 2019 to February 28, 2020) and COVID‐19 (April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021). Data were extracted from the electronic health record. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine sociodemographic factors associated with video visits during the COVID‐19 period.

Results

In the pre‐COVID‐19 period, 1503 patients completed 3837 visits (100% in person). In the COVID‐19 period, 1442 patients completed 3406 visits: 41% in person, 30% video, and 29% telephone only. Several factors were associated with decreased video use: preference for Spanish language (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15‐0.47) or other non‐English languages (aOR 0.34, 95% CI 0.21‐0.55), Black or African American race/ethnicity (aOR 0.50, 95% CI 0.35‐0.73), Medicaid payer, and increasing age.

Conclusion

Decreased video visit use among rheumatology patients was associated with non‐English language preference, minority race/ethnicity, increasing age, and indicators of low income. Rapid deployment and expansion of telehealth during the COVID‐19 pandemic likely has improved access for some but widened preexisting disparities for others. As medical care evolves toward ongoing digital care delivery, clarifying and addressing causes of telehealth disparities is essential for delivering equitable health care.
Large‐Area Uniform 1‐nm‐Level Amorphous Carbon Layers from 3D Conformal Polymer Brushes. A “Next‐Generation” Cu Diffusion Barrier?
Authors: Kang Yun‐Ho , Lee Sangbong , Choi Youngwoo , Seong Won Kyung , Han Kyu Hyo , Kim Jang Hwan , Kim Hyun‐Mi , Hong Seungbum , Lee Sun Hwa , Ruoff Rodney S. , Kim Ki‐Bum , Kim Sang Ouk
Published: January 2022

A reliable method for preparing a conformal amorphous carbon (a‐C) layer with a thickness of 1‐nm‐level, is tested as a possible Cu diffusion barrier layer for next‐generation ultrahigh‐density semiconductor device miniaturization. A polystyrene brush of uniform thickness is grafted onto 4‐inch SiO2/Si wafer substrates with “self‐limiting” chemistry favoring such a uniform layer. UV crosslinking and subsequent carbonization transforms this polymer film into an ultrathin a‐C layer without pinholes or hillocks. The uniform coating of nonplanar regions or surfaces is also possible. The Cu diffusion “blocking ability” is evaluated by time‐dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) tests using a metal−oxide−semiconductor (MOS) capacitor structure. A 0.82 nm‐thick a‐C barrier gives TDDB lifetimes 3.3× longer than that obtained using the conventional 1.0 nm‐thick TaNx diffusion barrier. In addition, this exceptionally uniform ultrathin polymer and a‐C film layers hold promise for selective ion permeable membranes, electrically and thermally insulating films in electronics, slits of angstrom‐scale thickness, and, when appropriately functionalized, as a robust ultrathin coating with many other potential applications.
ALD‐Coated Mesoporous Iridium‐Titanium Mixed Oxides: Maximizing Iridium Utilization for an Outstanding OER Performance
Authors: Frisch Marvin , Raza Muhammad Hamid , Ye Meng‐Yang , Sachse René , Paul Benjamin , Gunder René , Pinna Nicola , Kraehnert Ralph
Published: January 2022

With the increasing production of renewable energy and concomitant depletion of fossil resources, the demand for efficient water splitting electrocatalysts continues to grow. Iridium (Ir) and iridium oxides (IrOx) are currently the most promising candidates for an efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acidic medium, which remains the bottleneck in water electrolysis. Yet, the extremely high costs for Ir hamper a widespread production of hydrogen (H2) on an industrial scale. Herein, the authors report a concept for the synthesis of electrode coatings with template‐controlled mesoporosity surface‐modified with highly active Ir species. The improved utilization of noble metal species relies on the synthesis of soft‐templated metal oxide supports and a subsequent shape‐conformal deposition of Ir species via atomic layer deposition (ALD) at two different reaction temperatures. The study reveals that a minimum Ir content in the mesoporous titania‐based support is mandatory to provide a sufficient electrical bulk conductivity. After ALD, a significantly enhanced OER activity results in dependency of the ALD cycle number and temperature. The most active developed electrocatalyst film achieves an outstanding mass‐specific activity of 2622 mA mgIr–1 at 1.60 VRHE in a rotating‐disc electrode (RDE) setup at 25 °C using 0.5 m H2SO4 as a supporting electrolyte.
Wrinkle‐Assisted Capillary Bridging for the Directed Assembly of Single‐Level DNA Nanowire Arrays
Authors: Nagashima So , Yoon Sun Mi , Kim Do Hyun , Nakatani Akihiro , Moon Myoung‐Woon
Published: January 2022

Assembly of molecular‐scale nanowire arrays with defined spacing in an inexpensive and time‐efficient manner enables the development of versatile functional nanodevices that are unattainable with conventional approaches involving top‐down patterning techniques. This paper introduces a bottom‐up method for rapidly assembling DNA molecules into periodically aligned 2‐nm‐thin nanowires. The method uses wettability‐contrast channels composed of superhydrophilic wrinkles with a periodic high‐aspect‐ratio structure as the top and a hydrophobic flat surface as the bottom. After injecting the channels with DNA solution, one end of the wrinkled top is detached to facilitate unidirectional receding of an array of submicrometer‐scale capillary bridges developed in between. The molecules confined in each capillary bridge are then made to evaporatively assemble into a linear structure on the flat surface, thus yielding an array of molecular‐scale nanowires. The inter‐nanowire separation can be controlled by tuning the wrinkle dimensions. The wrinkle‐assisted capillary‐bridging method, termed WaCaB, exploits the surface instability of a film–substrate system for wrinkle fabrication and employs a simple detachment process, thus offering a general and flexible pathway for the facile assembly of spatially organized single‐level DNA nanowires, which can create new fabrication opportunities for devices in nanoelectronics, photonics, and biology.
Multimaterial Additive Manufacturing of LTCC Matrix and Silver Conductors for 3D Ceramic Electronics
Authors: Wang Peiren , Li Ji , Wang Guoqi , He Liu , Yu Yanqing , Xu Bo
Published: January 2022

Ceramic electronics have the advantages of large ampacity, high thermal conductivity, and excellent dielectric properties which are widely used in power electronics, optoelectronics, automotive industry, and aerospace technology. This work proposes a multimaterial dispensing additive manufacturing technology for customizing the 3D low‐temperature‐cofired ceramic (LTCC) circuitry. Customized LTCC aqueous slurry is first developed and then 3D printed together with commercial silver paste to build the green body. Then, the green body is debinded and sintered with a three‐stage process at 200, 500, and 850 °C, respectively. The shrinkage rate in 3D is around 17% which is comparable with commercial LTCCs. The surface quality of the sintered ceramic is improved obviously compared with that of the green body due to the glazing effect of the glass phase. For the silver conductor, the resistivity and the temperature coefficient of resistance are 2.34 ± 0.04 µΩ cm and 3.56 × 10−3 °C−1, respectively. A serial of demonstrators including 2D, 3D light‐emitting diode ceramic circuit boards and a ceramic heater/thermometer is developed to prove the potential and feasibility of the proposed technology.
Anisotropic Ion Conducting Particulate Composites for Bioelectronics
Authors: Yao Dickson R. , Yu Han , Rauhala Onni J. , Cea Claudia , Zhao Zifang , Gelinas Jennifer N. , Khodagholy Dion
Published: January 2022

Acquisition, processing, and manipulation of biological signals require transistor circuits capable of ion to electron conversion. However, use of this class of transistors in integrated sensors or circuits is limited due to difficulty in patterning biocompatible electrolytes for independent operation of transistors. It is hypothesized that it would be possible to eliminate the need for electrolyte patterning by enabling directional ion conduction as a property of the material serving as electrolyte. Here, the anisotropic ion conductor (AIC) is developed as a soft, biocompatible composite material comprised of ion‐conducting particles and an insulating polymer. AIC displays strongly anisotropic ion conduction with vertical conduction comparable to isotropic electrolytes over extended time periods. AIC allows effective hydration of conducting polymers to establish volumetric capacitance, which is critical for the operation of electrochemical transistors. AIC enables dense patterning of transistors with minimal leakage using simple solution‐based deposition techniques. Lastly, AIC can be utilized as a dry, anisotropic interface with human skin that is capable of non‐invasive acquisition of individual motor action potentials. The properties of AIC position it to enable implementation of a wide range of large‐scale organic bioelectronics and enhance their translation to human health applications.
The market for private food safety certifications: Conceptual framework, review, and future research directions
Authors: Hu Lijiao , Zheng Yuqing , Woods Timothy A. , Kusunose Yoko , Buck Steven
Published: January 2022

Since the inception of private food safety standards in the late 1990s, producers, processors, retailers, and governments have been increasingly relying on them to provide assurances to food safety. This article first develops a conceptual framework for the market of private food safety standards through the lens of agri‐food supply chain logistics, outlining how the key players in the market interact and classifying these interactions into 15 categories. Second, we classify and review studies based on the interactions identified. Our review supports the identification of research gaps in this relatively new, though already important, area of research in contemporary agribusiness.
Challenges, Strategies, and Prospects of the Anode‐Free Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Shao Ahu , Tang Xiaoyu , Zhang Min , Bai Miao , Ma Yue
Published: January 2022

The anode‐free lithium metal batteries (AF‐LMB), eliminating the use of host anode, can exploit the full potential of the lithium‐containing cathode system in terms of the highest retrievable gravimetric/volumetric energy densities, simplified processing of the anode coating, as well as the reduced cost of cell production and maintenance. However, the issues of interfacial contact resistance, curtailed ion pathway, as well as the dead lithium formation coherently lead to the unsatisfactory cation utilization upon repetitive cycling, which impairs the performance endurance of the practical relevance. Hitherto, a plethora of optimization strategies for the electrolyte and deposition substrate are proposed to extend the cell lifespan. Most of the methods, however, are still based on empirical attempts and lack of systematic diagnosis tools to elucidate the interplay between the structural evolution of the cathode and Li deposition behavior. Herein, the recent research process is summarized and the current development dilemma from multiple perspectives is probed, aiming to highlight the key features of the system that dedicate the cycling endurance. In addition, prospects of the operando characterizations that can be used to accelerate the mechanism elucidation of the AF‐LMB configuration are systematically commented.
Hearing loss, cleft palate, and congenital hip dysplasia in female carriers of an intragenic deletion of AMMECR1
Authors: Koene Saskia , Knijnenburg Jeroen , Hoffer Mariette J. V. , Zwanenburg Fleur , Haak Monique C. , Locher Heiko , van Beelen Edward S. A. , Santen Gijs W. E. , Rotteveel Liselotte J. C.
Published: January 2022

Previously, mutations in the AMMECR1 gene have been described in six males with developmental delay, sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and/or congenital abnormalities, including fetal nuchal edema, fetal pericardial effusion, talipes, congenital hip dysplasia, elliptocytosis and cleft palate. In this report, we present three female relatives of a male fetus with an intragenic deletion in this X‐linked gene. All three women reported hearing loss and one was born with a soft cleft palate and hip dysplasia. The audiograms showed mild to moderate SNHL with a variable pattern of the affected frequencies. Immunohistochemical analysis of fetal cochlea was performed confirming the expression of AMMECR1 in the human inner ear. Since hearing loss, cleft palate and congenital hip dysplasia were reported before in male AMMECR1 point mutation carriers and AMMECR1 is expressed in fetal inner ear, we suggest that female carriers may display a partial phenotype in this X‐linked condition.
Endotype reversal as a novel strategy for screening drugs targeting familial Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Caldwell Andrew B. , Liu Qing , Zhang Can , Schroth Gary P. , Galasko Douglas R. , Rynearson Kevin D. , Tanzi Rudolph E. , Yuan Shauna H. , Wagner Steven L. , Subramaniam Shankar
Published: January 2022

While amyloid‐β (Aβ) plaques are considered a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, clinical trials focused on targeting gamma secretase, an enzyme involved in aberrant Aβ peptide production, have not led to amelioration of AD symptoms or synaptic dysregulation. Screening strategies based on mechanistic, multi‐omics approaches that go beyond pathological readouts can aid in the evaluation of therapeutics. Using early‐onset Alzheimer's (EOFAD) disease patient lineage PSEN1A246E iPSC‐derived neurons, we performed RNA‐seq to characterize AD‐associated endotypes, which are in turn used as a screening evaluation metric for two gamma secretase drugs, the inhibitor Semagacestat and the modulator BPN‐15606. We demonstrate that drug treatment partially restores the neuronal state while concomitantly inhibiting cell cycle re‐entry and dedifferentiation endotypes to different degrees depending on the mechanism of gamma secretase engagement. Our endotype‐centric screening approach offers a new paradigm by which candidate AD therapeutics can be evaluated for their overall ability to reverse disease endotypes.
Guidelines in Practice: Preoperative Patient Skin Antisepsis
Authors: Link Terri
Published: January 2022

Surgical site infections (SSIs) frequently involve resident bacteria (eg, Staphylococcus aureus) on the patient’s skin. Strategies to help prevent SSIs include removing soil and transient microorganisms from the skin before surgery. Preoperative decolonization, preoperative bathing, and application of an effective skin antiseptic at the surgical site are components of a multimodal approach to reducing microorganisms to subpathogenic levels. As members of an interdisciplinary team, perioperative RNs are essential in the development and implementation of SSI prevention bundles to promote patient safety. This article discusses recommendations from the AORN “Guideline for preoperative patient skin antisepsis” for decolonization protocols, preoperative bathing, and selection of surgical site antiseptics. A scenario describes the process a facility team uses to determine components of an SSI prevention bundle after recognizing an increase in infections from multidrug‐resistant organisms.
Numerische Untersuchungen zur Abschirmwirkung von Einzelpfählen und Pfahlgruppen im Wellenfeld einer stationären oder bewegten harmonischen Last
Authors: Efthymiou Georgia , Vrettos Christos
Published: January 2022

In dem Beitrag werden Ergebnisse aus Finite‐Elemente‐Berechnungen zur kinematischen Interaktion von Einzelpfählen und Pfahlgruppen vorgestellt. Der Fokus liegt in der Ermittlung der erzielbaren Schwingungsreduktion bei einer Beanspruchung durch eine stationäre oder bewegte harmonische vertikale Punktlast. Eine bewegte konstante Last wird ebenfalls betrachtet. Der Boden in Form eines Halbraums oder einer Bodenschicht wird als lineares visko‐elastisches Kontinuum abgebildet. Das FEM‐Modell wird hinsichtlich Abmessungen und Diskretisierung optimiert. Die erzielbare Genauigkeit wird anhand von Vergleichen mit genauen Lösungen für das Nah‐ und Fernfeld beurteilt. Untersucht wird ein Frequenzbereich zwischen 20 und 40 Hz. Die Ergebnisse zur vertikalen Antwort zeigen, dass die Pfahlkopfschwingungen generell kleiner als die zugehörigen Freifeldwerte sind und dass diese Minderung bei höheren Frequenzen stärker ist. Die Verbindung der Pfähle über eine starre masselose Kopfplatte führt zu einer weiteren Reduktion des Schwingungseintrags in die Pfahlgruppe. Bei einer bewegten Last ist die Abschirmwirkung mit Ausbildung von Schattenzonen stärker, wenn die Last in minimalem Abstand vorbeifährt.
Undergraduate laboratory series that employs a complete polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism experiment for determination of a single nucleotide polymorphism in CYP2R1 gene
Authors: Sedky Nada K. , Arafa Reem K.
Published: January 2022

Nowadays, novel Biochemistry lab techniques are being introduced at a very fast pace in scientific research. This requires development of new labs for undergraduate Biochemistry courses to equip the students with up‐to‐date techniques. However, the time limit of Biochemistry labs for undergraduate students represents a major obstacle. This article presents a clear set of laboratory exercises designed to introduce students to the use of polymerase chain reaction‐restriction‐fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) as a means of detection of genetic variants. Three consecutive lab experiments have been designed for the undergraduate students to serve this purpose. The first session was performed in a computer lab (dry lab) where students were taught how to obtain a specific gene sequence, identify an exact single nucleotide polymorphism location, choose the target sequence for amplification, design specific primers for this particular sequence and choose the most suitable restriction enzyme from web tools. The second and third lab sessions were performed as wet labs where in the second lab session, students optimized PCR conditions and performed a successful PCR. The PCR products were kept for use in the third lab session where they utilized the selected restriction enzyme and carried out gel electrophoresis to determine the exact genotype.
Changes in serum neurofilament light chain levels following narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in clinically isolated syndrome
Authors: Fabis‐Pedrini Marzena J. , Kuhle Jens , Roberts Katherine M. A. , Trend Stephanie , Jones Anderson P. , Maceski Aleksandra , Carroll William M. , Lucas Robyn M. , Mastaglia Frank L. , Hart Prue H. , Kermode Allan G.
Published: January 2022

Objective

To determine whether serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) levels are suppressed in patients with the clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) following narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy (UVB‐PT).

Methods

sNfL levels were measured using a sensitive single‐molecule array assay at baseline and up to 12 months in 17 patients with CIS, 10 of whom received UVB‐PT, and were compared with healthy control (HC) and early relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) group. sNfL levels were correlated with magnetic resonance imaging total lesion volume (LV) determined using icobrain version 4.4.1 and with clinical outcomes.

Results

Baseline median sNfL levels were significantly higher in the CIS (20.6 pg/mL, interquartile range [IQR] 13.7–161.4) and RRMS groups (36.6 pg/ml [IQR] 16.2–212.2) than in HC (10.7 pg/ml [IQR] 4.9–21.5) (p = .012 and p = .0002, respectively), and were strongly correlated with T2 and T1 LV at 12 months (r = .800; p = .014 and r = .833; p = .008, respectively) in the CIS group. Analysis of changes in sNfL levels over time in the CIS group showed a significant cumulative suppressive effect of UVB‐PT in the first 3 months (UVB‐PT −10.6% vs non‐UVB‐PT +58.3%; p = .04) following which the levels in the two groups converged and continued to fall.

Conclusions

Our findings provide the basis for further studies to determine the utility of sNfL levels as a marker of neuro‐axonal damage in CIS and early MS and for assessing the efficacy of new therapeutic interventions such as UVB‐PT.
Do dynamic capabilities matter? A study on environmental performance and the circular economy in European certified organisations
Authors: Marrucci Luca , Daddi Tiberio , Iraldo Fabio
Published: January 2022

Organisations face barriers in the transition towards a circular economy. Environmental management systems have often been adopted to tackle environmental challenges, but, more recently, scholars have proposed dynamic capabilities as a strategy to foster circular economy initiatives. Considering the level of internalisation of the environmental management system, we investigated the contribution of dynamic capabilities to organisation performance and circular economy implementation. Using partial least squares structural equation modelling, we analysed more than 800 European organisations registered with the Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme. Our results proved that dynamic capabilities contribute to the internalisation of the environmental management system, which consequently improves the overall organisation performance and circular economy adoption. In addition, while dynamic capabilities directly influence the circular economy and environmental performance of an organisation, EMAS internalisation is crucial for a better economic performance and environmental reputation. Lastly, we assessed the contribution of sensing, seizing and reconfiguring capabilities to the internalisation of the environmental management standard proving their crucial role in the integration of the standard's requirements. Our study highlights the scarce linkages between the Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme and the circular economy by suggesting how organisations can identify and pursue circular economy opportunities through dynamic capabilities.
Two New Cytotoxic Decalin Derivatives from Marine‐Derived Fungus Talaromyces sp.
Authors: Liu Gaoran , Huo Ruiyun , Niu Shubin , Song Fuhang , Liu Ling
Published: January 2022

Two new decalin derivatives named fusarielins O (1) and P (2), together with seven known compounds (3–9) were isolated from the crude extract of the marine‐derived fungus Talaromyces sp. The planar structures of the new compounds were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses of NMR and HR‐ESI‐MS. The absolute configuration of 1 was assigned by Snatzke's method and comparison of experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. Compounds 1–9 were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against three tumor cell lines and 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activities.
Direct Addition of Grignard Reagents to Aliphatic Carboxylic Acids Enabled by Bulky turbo‐Organomagnesium Anilides
Authors: Colas Kilian , V. D. dos Santos A. Catarina , Kohlhepp Stefanie V. , Mendoza Abraham
Published: January 2022

The synthesis of ketones through addition of organometallic reagents to aliphatic carboxylic acids is a straightforward strategy that is limited to organolithium reagents. More desirable Grignard reagents can be activated and controlled with a bulky aniline‐derived turbo‐Hauser base. This operationally simple procedure allows the straightforward preparation of a variety of aliphatic and perfluoroalkyl ketones alike from functionalized alkyl, aryl and heteroaryl Grignard reagents.
Enantioselective Total Synthesis of (+)‐Eucophylline
Authors: Traboulsi Iman , Dange Nitin S. , Pirenne Vincent , Robert Frédéric , Landais Yannick
Published: January 2022

The total enantioselective synthesis of (+)‐eucophylline 1 was achieved using as a key‐structural motif a chiral piperidinone bearing the natural product all‐carbon quaternary stereocenter. The elaboration of the latter is based on two strategies relying on the free‐radical carbo‐cyanation and sulfonyl‐cyanation respectively of enantiopure substituted cyclopropenes and cyclobutenes. Co‐ or Ni‐boride reduction of the nitrile functional group along with the cyclopropane and cyclobutane ring‐opening then led to the formation of the chiral piperidinone ring. Further elaboration of the latter into the key 1‐azabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane motif followed by its coupling with a 2‐cyanoaniline allowed the formation of the tetrahydrobenzo[b][1,8]‐naphthyridine skeleton of 1, which was finally accessible in 17 steps and 5.9 % overall yield from 1,1‐dibromobutene.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Variediene Analogs
Authors: Liang Lin‐Fu , Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: January 2022

Five analogs of dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) with additional or shifted Me groups were converted with isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP) and the fungal variediene synthase from Aspergillus brasiliensis (AbVS). These enzymatic reactions resulted in the formation of several new terpene analogs that were isolated and structurally characterised by NMR spectroscopy. Several DMAPP analogs showed a changed reactivity giving access to compounds with unusual skeletons. Their formation is mechanistically rationalised and the absolute configurations of all obtained compounds were determined through a stereoselective deuteration strategy, revealing absolute configurations that are analogous to that of the natural enzyme product variediene.
‘I have high self‐compassion’: A face‐valid single‐item self‐compassion scale for resource‐limited research contexts
Authors: Zhang Jia Wei , Howell Ryan T. , Chen Serena , Goold Aleah Ruth , Bilgin Begüm , Chai Wen Jia , Ramis Tamilselvan
Published: January 2022

The original 26‐item Self‐Compassion Scale (SCS; Neff, 2003) and 12‐item Short‐Form Self‐Compassion Scale (SF‐SCS; Raes et al., 2011) are scales commonly used in cross‐sectional and longitudinal research to assess the global self‐compassion construct and its six facets. We introduce the Single‐Item Self‐Compassion Scale (SISC; ‘I have high self‐compassion’) to measure the global self‐compassion construct in time‐, space‐ and resource‐limited contexts (e.g., daily diaries, experience sampling and nationally representative surveys). Additionally, the SISC will expand knowledge about self‐compassion by providing researchers whose primary interest is not self‐compassion with a convenient, face‐valid option to measure self‐compassion. Across 10 samples (four cross‐sectional, four longitudinal and two 7‐day daily diary; N = 2,477), we demonstrated that the SISC has acceptable psychometric properties. Specifically, the SISC was temporally consistent, correlated adequately with the SCS and SF‐SCS, exhibited nearly identical correlational patterns when compared with the SCS and SF‐SCS with a wide range of criterion measures (e.g., self‐esteem, personality, affective and social functioning, mental health and demographic variables) and saved 12 min over a 7‐day diary. Results replicated among students, community samples and across the United States, Turkey and Malaysia. Thus, we provide the field with an alternative measure of the global self‐compassion construct that complements the SCS and SF‐SCS.
Space‐Confined Anchoring of Fe−Nx on Concave N‐Doped Carbon Cubes for Catalyzing Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Zheng Lingling , Zhao Yingji , Zhang Hongjuan , Xia Wei , Tang Jing
Published: January 2022

Carbon‐based electrocatalysts with atomically dispersed Fe−N−C display promising performance for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) amongst non‐precious electrocatalysts. Nonetheless, increasing the number and utilization of Fe−N−C active sites is challenging. Designing morphologies and adjusting the pore structure of carbon‐based electrocatalysts would boost the mass transfer, enhance the utilization of the active sites, and increase the overall ORR performance. In this work, a concave N‐doped carbon cubes structure adorned with highly external Fe−Nx was designed and produced by the space‐confined induced strategy. The optimal electrocatalyst revealed excellent ORR activity in both alkaline and acidic electrolytes, with half‐wave potentials of 0.86 and 0.75 V, respectively. The superior performance arose from its unique concave structure, possessing more accessible active sites with improved intrinsic activity, which holds promising potential for preparing advanced ORR electrocatalysts.
Clinical challenges of tissue preparation for spatial transcriptome
Authors: Liu Xiaoxia , Jiang Yujia , Song Dongli , Zhang Linlin , Xu Guang , Hou Rui , Zhang Yong , Chen Jian , Cheng Yunfeng , Liu Longqi , Xu Xun , Chen Gang , Wu Duojiao , Chen Tianxiang , Chen Ao , Wang Xiangdong
Published: January 2022

Spatial transcriptomics is considered as an important part of spatiotemporal molecular images to bridge molecular information with clinical images. Of those potentials and opportunities, the excellent quality of human sample preparation and handling will ensure the precise and reliable information generated from clinical spatial transcriptome. The present study aims at defining potential factors that might influence the quality of spatial transcriptomics in lung cancer, para‐cancer, or normal tissues, pathological images of sections and the RNA integrity before spatial transcriptome sequencing. We categorised potential influencing factors from clinical aspects, including patient selection, pathological definition, surgical types, sample harvest, temporary preservation conditions and solutions, frozen approaches, transport and storage conditions and duration. We emphasis on the relationship between the combination of histological scores with RNA integrity number (RIN) and the unique molecular identifier (UMI), which is determines the quality of of spatial transcriptomics; however, we did not find significantly relevance between them. Our results showed that isolated times and dry conditions of sample are critical for the UMI and the quality of spatial transcriptomic samples. Thus, clinical procedures of sample preparation should be furthermore optimised and standardised as new standards of operation performance for clinical spatial transcriptome. Our data suggested that the temporary preservation time and condition of samples at operation room should be within 30 min and in ‘dry’ status. The direct cryo‐preservation within OCT media for human lung sample is recommended. Thus, we believe that clinical spatial transcriptome will be a decisive approach and bridge in the development of spatiotemporal molecular images and provide new insights for understanding molecular mechanisms of diseases at multi‐orientations.
Morphometry of two cryptic tree frog species at their hybrid zone reveals neither intermediate nor transgressive morphotypes
Authors: Majtyka Tomasz , Borczyk Bartosz , Ogielska Maria , Stöck Matthias
Published: January 2022

Under incomplete reproductive isolation, secondary contact of diverged allopatric lineages may lead to the formation of hybrid zones that allow to study recombinants over several generations as excellent systems of genomic interactions resulting from the evolutionary forces acting on certain genes and phenotypes. Hybrid phenotypes may either exhibit intermediacy or, alternatively, transgressive traits, which exceed the extremes of their parents due to epistasis and segregation of complementary alleles. While transgressive morphotypes have been examined in fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals, studies in amphibians are rare. Here, we associate microsatellite‐based genotypes with morphometrics‐based morphotypes of two tree frog species of theHyla arboreagroup, sampled across a hybrid zone in Poland, to understand whether the genetically differentiated parental species also differ in morphology between each other and their hybrids and whether secondary contact leads to the evolution of intermediate or transgressive morphotypes. Using univariate approaches, explorative multivariate methods (principal component analyses) as well as techniques with prior grouping (discriminant function analyses), we find that morphotypes of both parental species and hybrids differ from each other. Importantly, hybrid morphotypes are neither intermediate nor transgressive but found to be more similar toH.orientalisthan toH.arborea.
The effect of oil palm‐dominated landscapes on the home range and distribution of a generalist species, the Asian water monitor
Authors: Guerrero‐Sanchez Sergio , Majewski Katherine , Orozco‐terWengel Pablo , Saimin Silvester , Goossens Benoit
Published: January 2022

The Asian water monitor lizard, Varanus salvator, is one of the largest predators in Southeast Asia which persists in human‐dominated landscapes and, as such, is a suitable model to understand the behavioral plasticity of generalists in anthropogenic landscapes. We used Local Convex Hull with adaptive algorithm to estimate the home range size of 14 GPS‐tagged individuals, followed by a MAXENT approach and community prey composition to understand the habitat preferences within the landscape. We estimated larger home ranges in forest than in oil palm plantations, as well as a larger diversity and abundance of mammals. Core home ranges were always linked to water bodies. However, the use of underproductive oil palm, freshwater swamp forest, and degraded forest by monitor lizards were higher than other kind of vegetation. This suitable habitat is proportionally larger in forest (73.7%) than in oil palm plantations (39.6%). Generalized estimation equation models showed that, while full home range size was negatively associated with the abundance of mammals, core areas depicted a positive association with mammal abundance, as well as with the proportion of suitable habitat within the home range. Besides having smaller home ranges in oil palm plantations, our findings suggest that limited suitable habitat availability forces the Asian water monitor lizard's population to establish only one or very few core areas. Contrastingly, under the protection of forest, they have more core areas, widely dispersed within larger home ranges. We conclude that regardless the plasticity of the species, human‐dominated landscapes are altering natural patterns of home range establishment in the monitor lizard's population, creating a potential ecological trap where conditions may not remain favorable for them in the long run. A deeper understanding of the ecological implications on the species and the prey community is advisable.