bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ПРОСТРАНСТВЕННАЯ ИЗМЕНЧИВОСТЬ МЕЖГОДОВЫХ КОЛЕБАНИЙ ТЕМПЕРАТУРЫ БАРЕНЦЕВА И КАРСКОГО МОРЕЙ ПО РЕЗУЛЬТАТАМ МОДЕЛИРОВАНИЯ, "Фундаментальная и прикладная гидрофизика"
Authors: Горчаков В. А. , Дворников А. Ю. , Гордеева С.М. , Рябченко В.А.
Published: February 2021

Исследуются межгодовые колебания температуры Баренцева и Карского морей в интервале от 1 до 12 лет, воспроизведенные на основе исключительно модельных решений без привлечения данных реанализа в распределениях температуры воды. В основу анализа положены модельные решения с 1975 по 2005 гг. Решения получены на основе двух моделей разного разрешения. Установлено, что модели корректно воспроизводят климат в исследуемом районе. Амплитуды межгодовых колебаний температуры воды в исследуемом районе имеют величины сравнимые с амплитудой сезонных колебаний. Для выявления периодичности и возможной нестационарности по частоте используется метод вейвлет-анализа, позволяющий исследовать циклические компоненты вне зависимости от того, как меняется их частота. Результаты анализа демонстрируют, что колебания температуры атмосферы, верхних слоев океана и площади ледяного покрова имеют схожие периоды, причем некоторые известные колебания в системе океан-атмосфера укладываются в интервалы колебаний, найденных в модельных решениях. В распределении колебаний температуры атмосферы и температуры воды исходных рядов отчетливо прослеживается связь размахов колебаний с положением кромки ледового покрова. В колебаниях температуры воды и воздуха в локальных точках выделены диапазоны 3-х основных несущих частот колебаний рассматриваемых характеристик, соответствующие периодам 1.0—3.6 года, 3.9—5.8 и 6.3—10.5 лет, хорошо согласующиеся с диапазонами периодов основных несущих колебаний на станциях разреза «Кольский меридиан». Периоды колебаний площади ледового покрова полностью содержатся в указанных диапазонах 3-х основных колебаний температуры воды и воздуха в рассматриваемых локальных точках Баренцева и Карского морей. Интенсивность колебаний температуры морской воды зависит от положения кромки ледового покрова, оказываясь больше в областях, покрытых льдом меньшее время. Двумерные распределения амплитуд температурных колебаний демонстрируют, что более высокочастотные (с периодами до 4.1 лет) наиболее ярко выражены на поверхности и хуже в нижележащих слоях. Колебания больших периодов (более 8 лет), напротив, проявляются практически везде. В нижележащих слоях такие колебания распространяются особенно далеко, вплоть до северной границы рассматриваемой области.
МАКРОФИТОБЕНТОС ЧЕРНОГО И АЗОВСКОГО МОРЕЙ: ФЛОРИСТИЧЕСКИЕ И ЭКОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ АСПЕКТЫ (ОБЗОР), "Наука Юга России"
Authors: Степаньян О.В.
Published: February 2021

Приведен ретроспективный анализ исследований макрофитобентоса Черного и Азовского морей. Выделены основные 4 этапа: I этап (1860–1920-е гг.) – флористический; II этап (1930–1950-е гг.) – гидробиологический; III этап (1960–1990-е гг.) – флористическо-экологический; IV этап (с начала 2000-х гг.) – синергетический. В последние годы превалируют локальные флористические работы с описанием экологии и биологии отдельных видов. Необходимо усиление исследований макрофитобентоса Черного и Азовского морей во всех странах причерноморского региона.
ТКАНЕВЫЕ И КЛЕТОЧНЫЕ РЕАКЦИИ ЛЕГКИХ, ВЫЗВАННЫЕ РАЗЛИЧНЫМИ ШТАММАМИ МЕДЛЕННОРАСТУЩИХ НЕТУБЕРКУЛЕЗНЫХ МИКОБАКТЕРИЙ, "Вестник Центрального научно-исследовательского института туберкулеза"
Authors: Лепеха Л.Н. , Красникова Е.В. , Макарьянц Н.Н. , Смирнова Т.Г. , Саргсян А.П.
Published: February 2021

Цель исследования: охарактеризовать тканевые и клеточные реакции нетуберкулезных микобактериозов (НТМ) органов дыхания, вызванных различными штаммами нетуберкулезных микобактерий (НТМБ) в операционном материале больных с туберкулемами легких. Материалы и методы. Проведено морфологическое, микробиологическое и молекулярно-генетическое исследование операционного материала 40 больных с диагнозом «туберкулема легкого», у которых были выделены различные штаммы медленнорастущих НТМБ и 38 больных с аналогичным диагнозом, но без сопутствующей патологии органов дыхания (группа контроля). Результаты. Развитие НТМ сопровождается обильной, нехарактерной для туберкулезного воспаления лимфоидной инфильтрацией легочной паренхимы, формированием гистиоцитарных и гистиоцитарно-макрофагальных гранулем без казеозного некроза, что особенно характерно для M. avium (22,5%), M. intracellulare (7,5%) случаев. Гистиоцитарные гранулемы подвергаются быстрому фиброзированию, что приводит к нарушению структурного гомеостаза респираторного отдела, развитию пневмосклероза, особенно в периваскулярной зоне. Для M. kansasii (30%) и M. xenopi (27,5%) более характерна лимфоидно-гистиоцитарная инфильтрация стенок терминальных воздухоносных путей и подлежащей легочной ткани с явлениями фиброза, сужением просвета или формированием бронхиолярных эктазий в виде тонкостенных полостных образований, выстланных реснитчатым эпителием. Полученные данные могут быть использованы при дифференциальной диагностике туберкулеза (ТБ) и НТМ легких.
Field studies of a high elevation population of northern Greater glider Petauroides volans minor in the Bluff State Forest, Far North Queensland
Authors: Starr C.R. , Hughes R.T. , Hemmings M.S. , Coase J.F. , Jess M. D.
Published: February 2021

We present the results of field surveys and a radio-tracking study of the Greater glider Petauroides volans minor in the Bluff State Forest, North Queensland. Twenty-three spotlighting transects were surveyed twice in July 2018, mean abundance of P. v. minor was 0.24 ha-1 in wet sclerophyll and 0.38 ha-1 in dry sclerophyll forest. Field observations (n= 330) were collected from nine radio-collared animals across three field sites from July to October 2019. 95% kernel home range estimates varied, ranging from 1.03 – 11.45 ha. Observations of denning (n=66) across 22 den trees identified that the gliders utilised between 1 and 4 dens during the study. Den trees were predominantly large Blue gum Eucalyptus tereticornis, with Gum-topped box Eucalyptus moluccana, Narrow-leafed ironbark Eucalyptus drepanophylla, Tindale’s stringybark Eucalyptus tindaliae and unidentifiable tree stags were used to lesser extent in one field site. Mean availability of suitable den trees was 2.07±1.12 per ha in Site 1 and 2, and 1.57±1.24 in Site 3. Foraging observations (n=148) were collected, Pink Bloodwood Corymbia intermedia and E. moluccana were the most commonly observed feed trees utilised by the study animals during the tracking period. This study provides baseline data for P. v. minor within high elevation habitat (950 to 1000 m) at its most northern extent. Given the widespread decline of P. volans across much of its range, these data may be used for developing local conservation strategies for the species in North Queensland.
Spending Model under Financial Literacy
Authors: Shah Muzafar Hussain , Ahmad Norzalina Binti , Murugiah Logasvathi
Published: February 2021

Aims: The study attempted to assess how family background, and peer role affect the spending decisions of working youth in Pakistan. Current study also tested effect of financial literacy as mediator between relationship of peer role and family back ground with spending decisions of working youth.

Study Design: Cross sectional survey research (Quantitative)

Place and Duration of Study: Different organization in Pakistan, between May- September-2019

Methodology: Working youth among different organizations with total of 309 responses were usable out of total sample 574from Pakistan through stratified random sampling Structural equation modeling was applied through Smart PLS3.

Results: The study found that the insignificant effect of peer role on spending, and significant effect on financial literacy. On other side family background shown insignificant effect on spending decisions but significant effect on financial literacy. Furthermore this study also found significant effect of financial literacy on spending decisions. Additionally this research also shown significant mediating effect of family background and peer role on spending decisions through financial literacy.

Conclusion: Findings of this study shaded the light that how family background, peer role have influenced spending decisions under umbrella of relative income hypothesis and life cycle hypothesis, directly and indirectly through mediation by financial literacy. Further policy makers could design policies and arranging training workshops for financial literacy awareness among working youth.
An Innovative Approach to the Finite Sequences of Prime Numbers
Authors: Lattanzi Daniele
Published: February 2021

An innovative approach that treats prime numbers as raw experimental data making use of experimental/computational mathematics and the approximation methods is presented in order to get advanced and more exact formulations of the canonical form  =    being the prime value and  its counter. The use of many different functions - such as the inverse of the modified chi-square function  with its three parameters ,  and , the function  with the ad-hoc  values being  , the function , the function , the harmonic series  and its approximation by Euler and so on - as fit functions of finite sets i.e. sequences of prime numbers leads to induction algorithms and to new relationships of the kind  though within the approximations of the calculations with all the estimations better than that of the standard formulation . In such a manner, refined formulations with higher precisions are got showing that there are many ways to treat the finite sequences of prime numbers. Comparisons among the various methods are made in order to find the best formulation of a new and more refined relationship in a closed form that can be valid to find the most approximate value of a prime starting from its counter in the finite case.
Perception and Acceptance of Herbal Medicines among Residents of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Elechi-Amadi Kemzi N. , Briggs Ojoye N. , Konne Felix E. , Giami Lynda K. , C. Ajufo Benjamin
Published: February 2021

Background: The use of herbal medicines and medicinal plants available in a locality in the treatment and control of human diseases, promotion of health and management of health conditions will continue to play a significant role in the healthcare system of the people, especially in developing countries. This cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the perception and knowledge of usage of herbal medicines among the residents of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Methodology: Multi-stage sampling technique was used for this study.

Results: The results indicated that out of the 273 questionnaires returned, 118 (44.9%) of the respondents were male while 144 (55.1%) were female. The average age of the respondents was 36±10 years. The prevalence of usage of herbal medicine from this study was 80.9%. The major source of information about herbal medicines was home (family and friends).The results also indicate that 180 (68.6%) of the respondents did not experience unpleasant effects such as headaches, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea, with the use of herbal medicines. Similarly, on the reasons for using herbal medicine, 134 (51.1%) of the respondents indicated that they used herbal medicines because they are effective, 66 (25.3%) said herbal medicines are always available mostly as locally sourced herbs, while 46 (17.7%) said herbal medicines are not costly. On the perception of herbal medicines, 206 (78.6%) indicated that herbal medicines are efficacious, 197 (75.3%) supported the integration of herbal medicines into the conventional health system, 243 (92.6%) supported the establishment of a Board to regulate the practice of herbal medicine in order to prevent indiscriminate use of herbal medicines while 234 (89.9%) of the respondents supported the establishment of a formal training institution for herbal medicine practitioners.

Conclusion: It is concluded that herbal medicines have wide acceptability and perception among the study population. It is recommended that herbal medical practice be properly regulated and integrated into the conventional health system.
Survival Analysis of Cancer Patients at Teaching Hospitals in Ethiopia
Authors: Fufa Gemechu Bekana
Published: February 2021

Survival analysis today is widely implemented in the fields of medical and biological sciences. The basic principle behind the survival analysis implies to a statistical approach designed to take into account the amount of time utilized for a study period, or the study of time between entry into observation and a subsequent event. The event of interest pertains to death and the analysis consists of following the subject until death. This study aims to analysis the survival status of cancer patients, to identify the main cancer in women at study area and to determine the survival time of women with cancer after undergoing certain treatments in the selected teaching hospital(s).  A random sample of 460 cancer patients was selected using purposive sampling from the study area, in 2016 to 2018. Parametric and non-parametric models, Logistic regression models, Statistical distributions and tests methods of data analysis were used in this study. The demographic information: age, educational level, treatments, economic level, marital status and stages of cancer were included and Comparisons were made among major cancers in patients. The findings of the study suggest that among major types of cancer in patients, breast cancer was the highly affecting the females in the study area. There are 62.15 % survival and 37.35 % of not survived patients in the data and the majority of patients (about 88 %) are diagnosed when they are in stages 1 and 2 and very few (about 8 %) of them are diagnosed in advanced stage of cancer. It also reveals that the average tumor sizes are significantly different for all ages and stages. By grouping ages into groups of 5, I also stratified the number of patients diagnosed with cancer in different stages and the diagnoses at different stages were different.  Finally, Results of survival time shows that the surviving of cancer patient were different at different ages and treatments level.
Drug Prescription Pattern of Psychotropic Drugs Used for the Management of Schizophrenia in a Tertiary Care Speciality Hospital in South Kerala
Authors: Dharman Dhanya , Krishnan S. Parimala , Ravikumar K. G.
Published: February 2021

An individual affected by psychotic illness is usually a burden to both the society as well as their family in terms of non-productivity. The WHO recognized the significance of mental health and defined it as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being”.A psychiatric or psychotropic medication refers to a psychoactive substance administered to exert an effect on the chemical makeup of the brain and nervous system. A hospital based cross sectional observational study was undertaken in the Mental Health Centre, Trivandrum. All psychiatric drugs prescribed was collected with the help of data collection form and anaysed with Excel and SPSS. The study data indicated that highest percentage of drugs used was coming under the classification antipsychotice agents (63.25%), followed by antianxietic agents (21.25%), antiepileptic agents (9.34%), antimania agents (3.07%) and antidepressants (3.07%). Highly prescribed antipsychotic agent was Risperidone (12.93%) followed by haloperidol (11.40%), Promethazine (10.50%).This study was conducted in a govt hospital, so all medicine was free of cost. Due to the poor financial quality of life of psychiatric patients , prescribers were forced to write the hospital avilable medicine to the patients. The main limitation of this study was, it is only a single centered sudy so the result was very limited. So multicentered study is recommended to get a better result to find out the prescribing pattern and pattern of schizophrenia in kerala.
AN EMPIRICAL STUDY ON PENSION FUNDS’ PORTFOLIO AND INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE: THE EFFECT OF PENSION FUNDS’ SIZE
Authors: Nanda Yulia Vidya , Atahau Apriani Dorkas Rambu
Published: February 2021

This study seeks to investigate whether larger pension funds exhibit better investment performance than smaller ones and differences in the selection of investment instruments between large and small pension funds. Our research sample is 13 pension funds that are the members of BKS Dapen-KI (Badan Kerja Sama Dana Pensiun Kristen Indonesia – the Cooperation Council of Christian Pension Fund in Indonesia) in 2010-2017. We use the quantitatively descriptive and independent-sample t-test methods. The results indicate no significant difference between the performance of large and small pension funds likely because both pension fund types have relatively similar total assets. However, large and small pension funds have exhibit different investment instruments selection.
THE DETERMINANT OF WEBSITE QUALITY AND E- SERVICE QUALITY AT SME IN INDONESIA
Authors: Suryani Tatik , Fauzi Abu Amar , Nurhadi Moch
Published: February 2021

This study aims to examine the dimensions which determine the Website Quality and E-Service Quality in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia. As one of the important determinant dimensions for website quality, E-Service Quality is specifically observed to find out the specific factors that determine E-Service quality which in some previous studies has not been widely studied. The study was conducted by using survey method with questionnaire involving 379 SME customer respondents. Website quality dimensions are measured using a Likert Scale with 5 alternative answers. The results of the analysis conducted with Smart PLS, shows that there are four dimensions of website quality determinants, of which the most influential are: E-Service Quality, Information Quality, System Quality and Image Quality; furthermore for E-Service Quality dimensions, there are three identified important dimensions that determine are: Fulfillment,  Responsiveness, and System Availability
IMPACT ANALYSIS OF DIGITAL MARKETING: AN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Madhani Jeet Virendrabhai , Rajyaguru Krunal Hareshkumar
Published: February 2021

The increasing use of digital media by consumers, companies utilizes digital marketing to outreach their market segments. The purpose of this study is to determine marketing strategies commonly utilized in digital communication and identify the preferred by consumers which influences decision making. Consumers have been identified as a driving force for online shopping. While there have been numerous studies about digital advertising, there has been little academic research focused on type of digital marketing strategies are preferred and influences their consumer’s behavior. A survey of 225 consumes indicated a preference for side panel ads and email ads; they do not like pop – up advertising. If provided a personal benefit like discount or reward they will write an online product review.
BAP1 promotes viability and migration of ECA109 cells through KLF5/CyclinD1/FGF‐BP1
Authors: Wang Fengyun , Luo Ming , Qu Honglan , Cheng Yufeng
Published: February 2021

More than 40 000 patients worldwide die from esophageal cancer annually. The 5‐year survival rate of patients is only ~ 15–20%, and thus, there is an ongoing need to improve diagnosis and treatment of esophageal cancer. Breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1)‐associated protein (BAP1) is a marker of poor prognosis in several cancers, including uveal melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, non‐small cell lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. BAP1 mutations are early and rare events in esophageal carcinoma, but the involvement of BAP1 in progression of esophageal carcinoma is unclear. Here, we report that cell proliferation and migration were significantly enhanced in esophageal carcinoma ECA109 cells overexpressing BAP1, while they were diminished upon BAP1 knockdown. In addition, the expression of Krüppel‐like factor 5 (KLF5), CyclinD1, and FGF‐BP1 was increased by BAP1 overexpression and decreased by BAP1 knockdown. Our data suggest that BAP1 promotes cell proliferation and migration, and enhances the expression of KLF5 and its downstream genes, including CyclinD1 and FGF‐BP1, in the esophageal carcinoma cell line ECA109.
Graphene‐Supported, Well‐Defined Metal‐Based Catalysts for C−H Bond Functionalization and Related Reactions
Authors: Martínez‐Laguna Jonathan , Caballero Ana , Pérez Pedro J.
Published: February 2021

The use of graphenic materials as support for transition metal‐based catalysts in reactions involving the functionalization of carbon‐hydrogen bonds is reviewed. In many cases, the catalytic activities reported are comparable or better than the homogeneous counterparts, a feature which adds to a substantial degree of recyclability of the materials.

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Adsorption‐mediated nonlinearity of critical cracking thickness in drying nanoparticle–polymer suspensions
Authors: Yamamura Masato
Published: February 2021

We examine the critical cracking thicknesses of as‐dried colloidal TiO2 suspensions containing water‐soluble polymeric additives, above which cracks spontaneously propagate. In contrast to common observations, the critical cracking thickness increases in a nonlinear, stepwise manner as increasing the concentration of the polymeric additive in the suspension. The critical thickness diverges when the polymer content increases above a certain threshold. We demonstrate that the first and second critical cracking thickness increments are attributable to the onset of polymer adsorption and a subsequent transition in the conformations of the adsorbing polymer chains, respectively. The critical thickness profiles with respect to normalized polymer adsorption amounts at different particle diameters converged into a single master curve. These results illustrate nontrivial evaporation processes in which the various roles of polymeric additives delay cracking into thicker films.
Pd/Cu‐Catalyzed Defluorinative Carbonylative Coupling of Aryl Iodides and gem‐Difluoroalkenes: Efficient Synthesis of α‐Fluorochalcones
Authors: Wu Fu‐Peng , Yuan Yang , Liu Jiawang , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: February 2021

An unprecedented and challenging defluorinative carbonylation was achieved. Enabled by a Pd/Cu cooperative catalyst system, the first example of defluorinative carbonylative coupling has been established. With gem‐difluoroalkenes and aryl iodides as the substrates, this methodology offers flexible and facile access to privileged α‐fluorochalcones under mild reaction conditions in moderate‐to‐excellent yields. Mechanistic studies indicated transmetalation between palladium and copper intermediates as a crucial step of the catalytic cycle.
Cysteine Nucleophiles in Glycosidase Catalysis: Application of a Covalent β‐l‐Arabinofuranosidase Inhibitor
Authors: McGregor Nicholas G. S. , Coines Joan , Borlandelli Valentina , Amaki Satoko , Artola Marta , Nin‐Hill Alba , Linzel Daniël , Yamada Chihaya , Arakawa Takatoshi , Ishiwata Akihiro , Ito Yukishige , van der Marel Gijsbert A. , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Fushinobu Shinya , Overkleeft Herman S. , Rovira Carme , Davies Gideon J.
Published: February 2021

The recent discovery of zinc‐dependent retaining glycoside hydrolases (GHs), with active sites built around a Zn(Cys)3(Glu) coordination complex, has presented unresolved mechanistic questions. In particular, the proposed mechanism, depending on a Zn‐coordinated cysteine nucleophile and passing through a thioglycosyl enzyme intermediate, remains controversial. This is primarily due to the expected stability of the intermediate C−S bond. To facilitate the study of this atypical mechanism, we report the synthesis of a cyclophellitol‐derived β‐l‐arabinofuranosidase inhibitor, hypothesised to react with the catalytic nucleophile to form a non‐hydrolysable adduct analogous to the mechanistic covalent intermediate. This β‐l‐arabinofuranosidase inhibitor reacts exclusively with the proposed cysteine thiol catalytic nucleophiles of representatives of GH families 127 and 146. X‐ray crystal structures determined for the resulting adducts enable MD and QM/MM simulations, which provide insight into the mechanism of thioglycosyl enzyme intermediate breakdown. Leveraging the unique chemistry of cyclophellitol derivatives, the structures and simulations presented here support the assignment of a zinc‐coordinated cysteine as the catalytic nucleophile and illuminate the finely tuned energetics of this remarkable metalloenzyme clan.
Unified Approach to Furan Natural Products via Phosphine‐Palladium Catalysis
Authors: Chen Violet Yijang , Kwon Ohyun
Published: February 2021

Polyalkyl furans are widespread in nature, often performing important biological roles. Despite a plethora of methods for the synthesis of tetrasubstituted furans, the construction of tetraalkyl furans remains non‐trivial. The prevalence of alkyl groups in bioactive furan natural products, combined with the desirable bioactivities of tetraalkyl furans, calls for a general synthetic protocol for polyalkyl furans. This paper describes a Michael–Heck approach, using sequential phosphine‐palladium catalysis, for the preparation of various polyalkyl furans from readily available precursors. The versatility of this method is illustrated by the total syntheses of nine distinct polyalkylated furan natural products belonging to different classes, namely the furanoterpenes rosefuran, sesquirosefuran, and mikanifuran; the marine natural products plakorsins A, B, and D and plakorsin D methyl ester; and the furan fatty acids 3D5 and hydromumiamicin.
High‐Silica CHA Zeolite Membrane with Ultra‐High Selectivity and Irradiation Stability for Krypton/Xenon Separation
Authors: Wang Xuerui , Zhou Tao , Zhang Ping , Yan Wenfu , Li Yongguo , Peng Li , Veerman Dylan , Shi Mengyang , Gu Xuehong , Kapteijn Freek
Published: February 2021

Capture and storage of the long‐lived 85Kr is an efficient approach to mitigate the emission of volatile radionuclides from the spent nuclear fuel reprocessing facilities. However, it is challenging to separate krypton (Kr) from xenon (Xe) because of the chemical inertness and similar physical properties. Herein we prepared high‐silica CHA zeolite membranes with ultra‐high selectivity and irradiation stability for Kr/Xe separation. The suitable aperture size and rigid framework endures the membrane a strong size‐exclusion effect. The ultrahigh selectivity of 51–152 together with the Kr permeance of 0.7–1.3×10−8 mol m−2 s−1 Pa−1 of high‐silica CHA zeolite membranes far surpass the state‐of‐the‐art polymeric membranes. The membrane is among the most stable polycrystalline membranes for separation of humid Kr/Xe mixtures. Together with the excellent irradiation stability, high‐silica CHA zeolite membranes pave the way to separate radioactive Kr from Xe for a notable reduction of the volatile nuclear waste storage volume.
Chalcogen⋅⋅⋅π Bonding Catalysis
Authors: Kong Xiangjin , Zhou Pan‐Pan , Wang Yao
Published: February 2021

While the presence of sulfur⋅⋅⋅π bonding interaction is a general phenomenon in the biological systems, the exploitation of this noncovalent force in a chemical process yet remains elusive. Herein, we describe the concept of chalcogen⋅⋅⋅π bonding catalysis that activates molecules of π systems through the interaction between chalcogen and π‐electron cloud. The proof‐of‐concept studies using a vinylindole‐based Diels–Alder benchmark reaction demonstrate that S⋅⋅⋅π and Se⋅⋅⋅π bonding interaction can drive the cycloaddition reaction efficiently. Experimental results suggest that a simultaneously double Se⋅⋅⋅π bonding interaction directs the stereoselectivity in this cycloaddition process.
DNA barcoding: A different perspective to introducing undergraduate students to DNA sequence analysis
Authors: Erasmus Daniel J.
Published: February 2021

Education in biochemistry teaching laboratories focus primarily on applying biochemical techniques to understanding human disease, biochemistry, and biotechnology. With anthropogenic climate change, there is a renewed interest in quantifying biodiversity, especially with the use of molecular‐based approaches such as DNA barcoding. This 3‐week laboratory exercise allowed undergraduate students to explore DNA sequencing, analysis, and DNA barcoding. Students extracted DNA from insect legs and amplified a 650 bp section of Cytochrome C oxidase I gene by PCR, and confirmed the success of their PCR by DNA gel electrophoresis. The PCR products were submitted for sequencing and students analyzed the sequences using FinchTV, Genbank, and the Barcode of Life Database. Based on the DNA sequences of their PCR products students were able to identify the species of insects. This lab exercise provides a different context to introducing students to analyzing DNA sequences and using DNA databases.
Two‐step sedimentation process for selection of microcapsules containing cell aggregates
Authors: Pedroza Rene G. , Rajani Sarah , Piret James M.
Published: February 2021

Microencapsulation technologies are being developed to protect transplanted islets from immune rejection, to reduce or even eliminate the need for immunosuppression. However, unencapsulated cells increase the chances of rejection and empty beads increase transplant volumes. Thus, separation processes were investigated to remove these byproducts based on density differences. The densities of islet‐sized mouse insulinoma 6 (MIN6) cell aggregates and acellular 5% alginate beads generated via emulsification and internal gelation were ~ 1.065 and 1.042 g/ml, respectively. The separation of empty beads from those containing aggregates was performed by sedimentation under unit gravity in continuous gradients of polysucrose and sodium diatrizoate with density ranges of 1.032–1.045, 1.035–1.044, or 1.039–1.042 g/ml. The 1.039–1.042 g/ml gradient enabled recoveries of ~ 80% of the aggregate‐containing beads while the other gradients recovered only ~ 60%. The bottom fraction of the 1.039–1.042 g/ml gradient contained beads with ~ 6% of their volume occupied by cell aggregates. Separation of unencapsulated aggregates from the aggregate‐containing beads was then achieved by centrifugation of this purified fraction in a 1.055 g/ml density solution. Thus, these sedimentation‐based approaches can effectively remove the byproducts of cell encapsulation.
COVID‐19 phobia across the world: Impact of resilience on COVID‐19 phobia in different nations
Authors: Lindinger‐Sternart Sylvia , Kaur Varinder , Widyaningsih Yekti , Patel Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2021

Aim

This research study focused on exploring the impact of resilience on COVID‐19 phobia (C19P) among individuals from different nations including a cluster of European countries, India, Indonesia, Pakistan and the United States of America (USA).

Method

We recruited research participants via disseminating an electronic survey on Facebook Messenger (FM) that included 812 participants. The electronic survey assessed unidentifiable demographic information, the COVID‐19 Phobia Scale (C19P‐S; Arpaci et al., 2020) and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS; Smith et al, 2008).

Results

Based on simple linear regression, resilience had a statistically significant negative affect on all four C19P factors including psychological, psychosomatic, economic and social factors (p < .001). Resilience showed a statistically significant difference for at least two nations (p < .001) investigated in this research, as shown by using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Utilising linear regression analysis showed that age affects the resilience score positively significantly (p < .001). Based on the Kruskal–Wallis test, we found no statistically significant differences in resilience scores between genders, but found statistically significant differences in resilience scores based on marital status, educational level and professional status (p = .001).

Conclusion

We concluded that the higher the resilience level, the lower the level of C19P. The level of resilience was highest in the USA, followed by Europe, Pakistan, India and Indonesia. Age affected the resilience level positively and resilience differed based on marital status, education levels, and professional status but not between genders. Implications are offered for effective counselling interventions during this COVID‐19 pandemic and the aftermath.
Myrothins A–F from Endophytic Fungus Myrothecium sp. BS‐31 Harbored in Panax notoginseng
Authors: Xiong Deng‐Sen , Yang Ya‐Bin , Hu Bin‐Yuan , Miao Cui‐Ping , Wang Yong‐Liang , Zou Jin‐Mei , Li Lei , Li Yi‐Qing , Luo Xiao‐Dong , Zhao Li‐Xing
Published: February 2021

Endophytic fungi play important roles for host's stress tolerance including invasion by pathogenic microbes. Small molecules are common weapons in the microbe–microbe interactions. Panax notoginseng is a widely used traditional Chinese medicinal plant and harbors many endophytes, some exert functions against pathogens. Here, we report six new compounds named myrothins A–F (1–6) produced by Myrothecium sp. BS‐31, an endophyte isolated from P. notoginseng, and their antifungal activities against pathogenic fungi causing host root‐rot disease. Their structures were elucidated with analysis of spectroscopic data including 1D and 2D NMR, HR‐ESI‐MS. Myrothins B (2) and E (5) showed the weak activity against Fusarium oxysporum and Phoma herbarum, and myrothins F (6) showed weak activity against F. oxysporum.
Numerical Analysis of Convective Heat Transfer Characteristics in Microalgae Slurries in Tube Flow
Authors: Ramachandriya Shreejeeth , Thangavelu Perarasu , Kasi Lakshmanan
Published: February 2021

With the various distinctive applications of microalgae, microalgae slurries have been extensively used in biogas and biofuel production. During these processes, the continuous hydrothermal pretreatment of microalgal biomass in tubular reactors is a key procedure. This pretreatment involves heat transfer, and the complex nature of the microalgae slurries containing micron‐sized cells flowing through the tube poses a major challenge for industrialization. There is only a scarce amount of literature available on the modeling of microalgae slurries; hence, a computational fluid dynamics model is developed in this study to analyze their heat transfer characteristics. Good agreement was obtained between the model results and experimental values.
A Titanium‐Catalyzed Reductive α‐Desulfonylation
Authors: Kern Christoph , Selau Jan , Streuff Jan
Published: February 2021

A titanium(III)‐catalyzed desulfonylation gives access to functionalized alkyl nitrile building blocks from α‐sulfonyl nitriles, circumventing traditional base‐mediated α‐alkylation conditions and strong single electron donors. The reaction tolerates numerous functional groups including free alcohols, esters, amides, and it can be applied also to the α‐desulfonylation of ketones. In addition, a one‐pot desulfonylative alkylation is demonstrated. Preliminary mechanistic studies indicate a catalyst‐dependent mechanism involving a homolytic C−S cleavage.
Effects of using augmented reality (AR) in visualizing a dynamic particle model
Authors: Probst Christof , Fetzer David , Lukas Sarah , Huwer Johannes
Published: February 2021

Der Einfluss von AR in diesem Lehr‐Lern‐Setting wurde in Bezug auf Motivation, schulische Selbstwirksamkeitserwartung und Kognition (z. B. Diskontinuum) in einer achten Klasse einer Realschule mit einer Interventionsstudie im Pre‐Post‐Kontrollgruppen‐Design untersucht. Die Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass AR positive Auswirkungen auf diese Aspekte des Lernens hat.
Analysis of Eutrophication Potential in Main Drinking Water Basins of Istanbul
Authors: Karpuzcu Mahmut Ekrem , Fakioglu Malhun , Ozturk Izzet
Published: February 2021

Eutrophication potential in three main drinking water reservoirs of Istanbul is investigated. The eutrophication analysis is conducted by a phosphorus mass balance model using the point and nonpoint sources of pollution with the data provided by the Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration. In addition to the mass balance model, the reservoirs are also evaluated based on trophic state index calculations. The results indicate that Istanbul's main drinking water reservoirs are either under eutrophication danger or already under eutrophic conditions. While reduction of nonpoint source loads using a series of best management practices is recommended for Omerli and Buyukcekmece Reservoirs, additional measures to mitigate internal eutrophication is necessary for Terkos Reservoir. Results of this study provide insight into management and control scenarios to prevent impacts of eutrophication in these reservoirs.
A Box of Chemistry to Inhibit the MEN1 Tumor Suppressor Gene Promoting Leukemia
Authors: Ozyerli‐Goknar Ezgi , Nizamuddin Sheikh , Timmers H. T. Marc
Published: February 2021

Targeting protein‐protein interactions (PPIs) with small‐molecule inhibitors has become a hotbed of modern drug development. In this review, we describe a new class of PPI inhibitors that block menin from binding to MLL proteins. Menin is encoded by the MEN1 tumor suppressor, but acts as an essential cofactor for MLL/KMT2A‐rearranged leukemias. The most promising menin‐MLL inhibitors belong to the thienopyrimidine class and have recently entered phase I/II clinical trials for treating acute leukemias characterized by MLL/KMT2A translocations or NPM1 mutations. As single agents, thienopyrimidine compounds eradicate leukemia in a xenograft models of primary leukemic cells belonging to the MLL‐rearranged or NPM1‐mutant subtypes. These compounds are well tolerated with few or no side effects, which is remarkable given the tumor‐suppressor function of menin. The menin‐MLL inhibitors highlight how leukemia patients could benefit from a targeted epigenetic therapy with novel PPI inhibitors obtained by directed chemical evolution.
The Lymph Node Reservoir: Physiology, HIV Infection, and Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Scholz Erin M. B. , Kashuba Angela D. M.
Published: February 2021

Despite advances in treatment, finding a cure for HIV remains a top priority. Chronic HIV infection is associated with increased risk of comorbidities, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, people living with HIV must remain adherent to daily antiretroviral therapy, because lapses in medication adherence can lead to viral rebound and disease progression. Viral recrudescence occurs from cellular reservoirs in lymphoid tissues. In particular, lymph nodes are central to the pathology of HIV due to their unique architecture and compartmentalization of immune cells. Understanding how antiretrovirals (ARVs) penetrate lymph nodes may explain why these tissues are maintained as HIV reservoirs, and how they contribute to viral rebound upon treatment interruption. In this report, we review (i) the physiology of the lymph nodes and their function as part of the immune and lymphatic systems, (ii) the pathogenesis and outcomes of HIV infection in lymph nodes, and (iii) ARV concentrations and distribution in lymph nodes, and the relationship between ARVs and HIV in this important reservoir.
Litter mass, deposition rate, and decomposition in nitrogen‐fertilized or grass–legume grazing systems
Authors: Jaramillo David M. , Dubeux Jose C. B. , Sollenberger Lynn , Mackowiak Cheryl , Vendramini Joao M. B. , DiLorenzo Nicolas , Queiroz Luana M. D. , Santos Erick R. S. , Garcia Liza , Ruiz‐Moreno Martin , van Santen Edzard
Published: February 2021

Plant litter deposition and decomposition play important roles in grassland nutrient cycling. The objective was to evaluate plant litter responses and estimate the N returns via plant litter in contrasting grazing systems, since legume inclusion is hypothesized to result in similar quantities of N return compared with N‐fertilized grass systems. Systems were (a) N‐fertilized bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flüggé) during summer with a mixture of N‐fertilized cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) and oat (Avena sativa L.) during winter (Grass+N); (b) bahiagrass (no N fertilizer) during summer and a rye–oat–clovers (Trifolium spp.) mixture + N in winter (Grass+Clover); and (c) bahiagrass (no N fertilizer in summer) with strip‐planted rhizoma peanut (Arachis glabrata Benth.) during summer with a rye–oat–clovers mixture + N during winter (Grass+CL+RP). Litter mass was greatest for Grass+N during October (4,430 kg organic matter [OM] ha−1) and least for Grass+CL+RP in June (490 kg OM ha−1). Litter N concentrations were greatest in Grass+N (16 g kg−1), with similar N concentration for Grass+Clover and Grass+CL+RP litter (14 g kg−1). Contribution of C3 species to litter mass increased from May to July but decreased thereafter. Overall, there was a net return of 47 kg N ha−1 yr−1 via litter across the three systems, and litter decomposition was similar in the three systems. Inclusion of forage legumes during cool and warm seasons in grazing systems has the potential to return similar amounts of N through plant litter deposition as grasses receiving moderate levels of N fertilizer.
Electroanalytical Determination of Estrone in Seawater Samples Using Functionalized Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Okina Renato Hisashi , Valle Eliana Maíra Agostini , Simões Fabio Ruiz , Codognoto Lucia
Published: February 2021

In this work, a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified with multiwalled carbon nanotubes functionalized with carboxylic groups (MWCNT−COOH) was used to determine the hormone estrone in seawater samples. Modification of the electrode was optimized using three successive 10‐μL aliquots of the MWCNT−COOH dispersion in ethanol (1 : 5 mL). The cyclic voltammetry results showed an oxidation peak at 0.59 V with characteristics of an irreversible process, pH dependent and controlled by adsorption of species. The results of square‐wave voltammetry showed that the intensities of peak currents for the MWCNT−COOH/GCE were about 2.5 times higher than for GCE. The calibration curve showed a linearity of 0.9981 and a sensitivity of 0.1521 μA/mol L−1. The limits of detection and quantification were 0.117 and 0.392 μmol L−1, respectively. The recovery obtained using seawater samples was 91%, indicating the applicability of the method in marine environments.
A capillary electrophoresis method for free fatty acids screening and acidity determination in biodiesel
Authors: Sato Renata Takabayashi , Alves Júlia Bruce , Amorim Tatiane Lima , de Oliveira Marcone Augusto Leal
Published: February 2021

The advent of policies that incentivize or require alternative diesel fuels has increased the demand for the development of fast analytical methods aiming for the quality control of these fuels. This study approached an alternative method for the determination of biodiesel acidity employing capillary zone electrophoresis based on free fatty acids screening and quantification. Sample preparation comprised vortex‐assisted liquid‐liquid extraction of free fatty acids and was a crucial step for analysis. It was studied through a 32 full factorial design considering sample mass and the stirring time. Then, solvent suitability was evaluated univariately. The free fatty acid screening was carried out employing a capillary zone electrophoresis method able to separate C16:0, C18:0, C18:1 n‐9, C18:2 n‐6, and C18:3 n‐3, major fatty acids in a variety of vegetable oils used for biodiesel synthesis. In addition to the straightforward sample preparation protocol, the running time of the developed method was only 12 min. Moreover, ultraviolet absorption indirect detection of analytes was approached to avoid analytes derivatization, considering the lack of chromophore groups in saturated fatty acids. Statistical tests did not evidence any significant differences in the biodiesel acidity determination expressed in percentage of free fatty acids when comparing the proposed capillary zone electrophoresis method and the traditional potentiometric titration approach within the 95% confidence interval, which demonstrates the suitability of this alternative method for the biodiesel quality control in routine.
An online tool for information to women with epilepsy and therapeutic drug monitoring in pregnancy: Design and pilot study
Authors: Lisovska Kristina , Gustafsson Eva , Klecki Judith , Edelvik Tranberg Anna , Zelano Johan
Published: February 2021

Objective

Information to women with epilepsy on pregnancy‐related antiseizure medication (ASM) issues and reliable tools for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) are important aspects of epilepsy care. We aimed to develop and test an online tool for patient education on pregnancy‐related issues and communication with epilepsy nurses during pregnancy for women with epilepsy.

Methods

An existing national platform for online communication (1177.se) was used, and an online tool was developed by two epilepsy nurses, two neurologists, and an IT technician. The tool was launched as a complement to standard care, and patients deciding to use it were invited to participate in a survey of user experiences and knowledge questions.

Results

The online tool consists of two modules: one for patient education and one for TDM during pregnancy. The latter module allows scheduling of automatic reminders of blood tests that are sent to patients at set intervals. The epilepsy nurse can communicate results and suggested dose changes in the tool. A total of 48 women answered the survey: 28 had been invited to use the information module and 20 to use the TDM module. Patient experiences were generally good, and most users of the TDM module would prefer an online means of communication in future pregnancies. For epilepsy nurses, the tool provided good overview of patients currently pregnant and administrative advantages compared with traditional means of communication.

Significance

Online patient education and communication about TDM during pregnancy are feasible and can be a valuable part of future digitalization efforts in epilepsy care.
Ceribell EEG shortens seizure diagnosis and workforce time and is useful for COVID isolation
Authors: LaMonte Marian P.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To determine whether the portable Ceribell® electroencephalograph (EEG) (Mountain View, CA) used for suspected status epilepticus (SE) can reduce time to diagnosis and on‐call workforce demands and whether it can be applied to patients in respiratory isolation.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team developed a protocol for the use of the Ceribell EEG. The staff deploying the device, the attending physician, and the interpreting neurologist completed evaluation tools for each patient. Data maintained for quality and resource planning of 18‐channel electroencephalography ordered for suspected SE were used as controls. Times to diagnosis were compared by application of Welch‐Satterthwaite tests and workforce call‐in demands by Fisher's exact t test. We evaluated qualitative data related to the use of the EEG in COVID‐19 isolation rooms and on its technical aspects and acceptance by staff members.

Results

The Ceribell EEG reduced diagnosis time (P = .0000006) and on‐call workforce demand (P = .02). The device can be used at any time of day in any hospital care area and has advantages in respiratory isolation rooms.

Significance

Compared with a standard 18‐channel EEG, the Ceribell device allowed earlier diagnosis of SE and non‐SE conditions and reduced workforce demands. Due to the ease of its use and its simple components, which can be readily disinfected, it is advantageous for COVID‐19 patients in isolation.