bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue-autonomous immune response regulates stress signaling during hypertrophy
Authors: Krautz Robert , Khalili Dilan , Theopold Ulrich
Published: December 2020

Postmitotic tissues are incapable of replacing damaged cells through proliferation, but need to rely on buffering mechanisms to prevent tissue disintegration. By constitutively activating the Ras/MAPK-pathway viaRasV12-overexpression in the postmitotic salivary glands (SGs) ofDrosophilalarvae, we overrode the glands adaptability to growth signals and induced hypertrophy. The accompanied loss of tissue integrity, recognition by cellular immunity, and cell death are all buffered by blocking stress signaling through a genuine tissue-autonomous immune response. This novel, spatio-temporally tightly regulated mechanism relies on the inhibition of a feedback-loop in the JNK-pathway by the immune effector and antimicrobial peptide Drosomycin. While this interaction might allow growing SGs to cope with temporary stress, continuous Drosomycin expression inRasV12-glands favors unrestricted hypertrophy. These findings indicate the necessity to refine therapeutic approaches that stimulate immune responses by acknowledging their possible, detrimental effects in damaged or stressed tissues.
Tipos de turismo. Denominaciones y uso actual en España, Argentina, Colombia, México y Perú
Authors:   Universidad de Alicante (España), Mogorrón Huerta Pedro
Published: December 2020

En el marco de este artículo, realizamos una investigación que nos permita averiguar si las denominaciones de los tipos de turismo son las mismas en los países que utilizan el español como lengua oficial. Para ello, extraemos en una primera fase (con el programa Sketch Engine) los tipos de turismo que aparecen en las últimas versiones de las guías oficiales de turismo de España, Argentina, Colombia, México y Perú, así como de dos guías de turismo de la Organización Mundial de Turismo. A continuación, en aras de examinar el contenido cuantitativo en tipos de turismo de estas guías oficiales incluimos otros tipos de turismo recopilados en artículos de investigación citados en este artículo. Finalmente, para conocer la vigencia y el uso común de los 98 tipos de turismo que forman parte de este análisis, realizamos, para todos ellos, una búsqueda textual en periódicos referenciales y en páginas webs especializadas en turismo de estos cinco países.
Estudio sobre la traducción del léxico relacionado con la promoción oleoturística en Andalucía (español-alemán)
Authors:   Universidad de Córdoba (España), Montes Sánchez Alba
Published: December 2020

El oleoturismo ha surgido como una alternativa turística que tiene como objeto preservar los paisajes del olivar y promover el desarrollo rural y regional en comunidades autónomas como Andalucía, donde el aceite de oliva es uno de los principales motores económicos y un signo cultural y gastronómico. Para ello, la divulgación de esta nueva práctica turística a escala no solo nacional, sino también europea e internacional requiere de expertos en terminología y traducción que garanticen la correcta transferencia del conocimiento en esta área de especialidad. El presente estudio aborda el léxico y la terminología oleícola, empleada para comercializar la práctica del oleoturismo, desde una perspectiva traductológica, con el objetivo fundamental de analizarlos en el traslado del español al alemán y llevar a cabo una reflexión sobre los problemas y dificultades de traducción emergentes, como es el caso de los culturemas.
Effect of Premedication with Ibuprofen, Paracetamol and Diclofenac Sodium on the Outcome of Maxillary Infiltration Anaesthesia in Patients with Irreversible Pulpitis- A Double-blind Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Manoj Chelikani Lakshmikanth , Patil Avinash , Patil Sanjana , Shenvi Suresh
Published: December 2020

Introduction: The most important aspect of endodontic treatment is pain control. The quest for newer ways of pain control is always a topic of interest among the researchers. Though local anaesthesia proved to be the effective method of pain control, there are many instances of failure to achieve successful anaesthesia even with proper technique of administration in cases of irreversible pulpitis. Aim: To determine the effect of Preoperative Oral Administration of Paracetamol (PARA), Ibuprofen (IBUP) or Diclofenac Sodium (DS) on the success of maxillary infiltration anaesthesia in patients with irreversible pulpitis in a double-blinded randomised controlled trial. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty patients having irreversible pulpitis of a maxillary first molar were selected for this prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Patients indicated their pain scores on a Heft Parker visual analog scale, after which they were randomly divided into four groups (n=30). The subjects received identical capsules containing either 500 mg PARA, 400 mg IBUP, 50 mg DS or 400 mg lactose powder (placebo, PLAC), 1 hour before administration of maxillary infiltration anaesthesia with 2% lidocaine containing 1:80,000 epinephrine. Access cavities were then prepared and anaesthesia was defined as successful if pain is absent or patient has mild pain during access preparation and pulp extirpation. The data was analysed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple post-hoc tests. p-value at <0.05 to be considered significant. Results: The success rates in descending order were 65% (IBUP), 60.83% (DS), 58.33% (PARA), and 20% (PLAC). A significant (p-value 0.0001) difference was found between the drug groups and the PLAC group. Conclusion: Preoperative administration of PARA (500 mg), IBUP (400 mg), and DS (50 mg) significantly improved the efficiency of maxillary infiltration anaesthesia in patients with irreversible pulpitis.
Prevalence of Horseshoe Kidneys by Multidetector Computed Tomography in a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India
Authors: Gnaneshwar Arunthathy , Rajendran Atshara , Prabhu VB Giri
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Horseshoe Shaped (HSK) Kidneys are often asymptomatic and are frequently diagnosed incidentally. The prevalence varies from approximately 1 in 400 to 600 with preponderance in males (male: female ratio of 2:1). This abnormality can affect the drainage of the kidney leading to Pelviureteric Junction Obstruction (PUJO), renal calculi, urinary tract infections and some renal cancers. The superficial location also makes it more vulnerable to injury during trauma or surgical procedures. Aim: To assess the prevalence of HSK and report their morphological features as evidenced following examination with a 64-slice Computed Tomography of the Kidney and Urinary Bladder (CT KUB). Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Radiology, Sri Muthukumaran Medical College and Hospital & Research Institute, Chennai from January 2017 to December 2018. The study included 861 patients who underwent 64 slice CT KUB during that period and review of both plain and contrast enhanced CT KUB examinations were done. For deciding the fusion site, the isthmus, the authors measured a maximum diameter of the outline of the HSK on the axial image and decided the center of the kidneys. The HSK was classified based on fusion site and type of isthmic tissue connecting two kidneys. Results: HSK was found in 4 (3 male and 1 female) out of 861 patients examined. Thus, the prevalence of HSK in the study population was 1 in 215 (0.46%). Two patients with a thick isthmus and anteriorly facing, pelvises had PUJO and urolithiasis. Variant vascular anatomy was found in all four patients. No crossed fused ectopia was found in this study. Conclusion: This study showed that HSK is the most common congenital fusion anomaly and is more common in males. It also demonstrated that patients with a thick isthmus and associated anteriorly facing renal pelvis were more prone to develop PUJO and renal calculi.
Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test: Utility as Diagnostic Modality in Clinically Diagnosed Childhood Tuberculosis
Authors: Yadav Rajesh Kumar , Kumar Durgesh , Yadav Yogendra Singh , Singh Dinesh Kumar , Singh Amit , Chand Karam
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the deadliest communicable diseases worldwide. The introduction of early and rapid diagnostic test such as Cartridge Based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) creates opportunities for improvement in early and fast detection of TB and drug-resistance. Aim: To determine the prevalence of Tubercular cases in clinically diagnosed TB patients and to determine the prevalence of Rifampicin resistance by CBNAAT. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study involved a total of 107 children from January 2018 to June 2019, fulfilling the inclusion criteria who were clinically diagnosed and found positive in conventional tests for TB. CBNAAT was used to confirm Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) for the diagnosis of childhood TB and compare with other conventional methods. Chi-square test for the proportion was applied and p-value <0.05 taken as significant. Results: Of the 107 patients studied, 44.9% were female and 55.1% were male. The age range was 3 months to 12 years. The cases were confirmed by CBNAAT in clinically suspected case of TB was found to be 17.8% (19 cases out of 107 patients). CBNAAT was able to detect MTB in 14% (15 cases out of 107 patients) of the gastric aspirate/sputum sample. Out of 107 patients, 69 children were clinically diagnosed as Neurotuberculosis and 13% (9 out of 69 cases) cases were confirmed by CBNAAT in Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF). OF which 29 patients had CSF analysis suggestive of Tubercular Meningitis (TBM). Out of 29 patients, 10 (34.5%) cases were confirmed by CBNAAT. This test showed a significant association with positive Mantoux test (p-value 0.020) and CSF analysis (p-value 0.021) suggestive of TBM. Conclusion: CBNAAT should be used in preference to conventional methods as the initial diagnostic test for patients suspected of having TB. CBNAAT positivity shows significant association with positive Mantoux test and CSF analysis suggestive of TBM.
CLINICAL EVALUATION OF VAITARANA BASTI ALONG WITH DHANWANTARA TAILA MATRA BASTI IN AMAVATA: A CASE SERIES
Authors: Lodha Sheetal G , Karade Ruchika S
Published: December 2020

Amavata is one of the common and most crippling joint disorders. It is a chronic, degenerative disease of the connective tissue mainly involving the joints. The clinical features of Amavata such as pain, swelling and stiffness of joints, fever and general disability are very much close to the Rheumatological disorder called rheumatoid arthritis. Ama associated with aggravated vata plays a dominant role in the pathogenesis of Amavata. According to its pathophysiology, one should treat the morbid doshas involve in are kapha and vata simultaneously. In the present study, four clinically diagnosed cases of Amavata with swelling of knee joints and morning stiffness , pain in multiple joints, raised rheumatoid factor and anti CCP factor are treated with Vaitarana basti along with Dhanwantara taila Matra basti on same day and changes are observed in subjective and objective criteria. Significant improvement is observed in reducing signs and symptoms of Amavata and in rheumatoid arthritis factor and anti CCP. Vaitarana basti eradicate Ama and kapha dosha as the drugs of Vaitarana basti having Ama pachaka, vatakapha shamaka and Anulomaka properties. On the other hand, Matra basti of Dhanwantara taila pacifies the vatadosha and reduced the pain and swelling. It also acts as neuroprotective, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and anti-paralytic. The combination of Vaitarana basti and Dhanwantara taila Matra basti can be an effective treatment for Amavata.
SADHAKA PITTA OF AYURVED AND ITS AFFILIATES IN MODERN PERSPECTIVE: A REVIEW
Authors: Moharana Pritam , Roushan Rakesh
Published: December 2020

In Ayurveda a person is said to be healthy when Dosha, Agni, Dhatu, all the physiological process are in homeostatic state and soul, sense organ and mind are in a state of total wellbeing. Theory of tridosha is a unique concept to Ayurveda. Pitta dosha plays a major role in digestion and metabolism. Pitta doshas are of five types namely pachaka, ranjaka, alochaka, bhrajaka, and sadhaka pitta. The seat of Sadhaka pitta is hridaya and it is associated with mental faculties and emotions. These functions can be recognized as functions of higher center of brain which is carried out by small molecule, rapidly acting transmitters and neuropeptides or slowly acting neurotransmitters. Few works have been mentioned on conceptual features of pitta. In this article a correlation of the physiological activity of sadhaka pitta with modern medical science has been mentioned.
GRIVA PARINAAH IN SWANGULI PRAMAAN COULD BE UNIQUE PERSONALIZED ANTHROPOMETRIC MARKER FOR PREDICTION OF MEDOVRUDDHI: A REVIEW
Authors: Tawalare Kiran , Pawar Jatved , Tawalare Kalpana
Published: December 2020

The concept of Personalized medicine (PM) gives new dimensions to modern medicine but itis a well-established concept in Ayurveda. Ayurveda suggests different medicine for different people because every person is different from each other. Swa-anguli pramaan is a unique pramaan (selffinger measurement) described in the classic text of Ayurveda in terms of ayaam, vistaar and parinaah for the determination of the magnitude of a body organ. Medodhatu is one of the sapta dhatu. Meda dhatu vridhhi means an increase in meda dhatu. Shows the similarity with signs and symptoms of obesity. BMI, waist circumference, waist to hip ratio are anthropometric measurements used to categorized obesity with some limitations. All these measures are generalized metric way, but grivaparinaah in swanguli pramaan is a Personalized quantifying anthropometric measurement. So, intending to highlight the importance of griva parinaah described in medo dhatuvruddhi comprehensive studies of available literature have been carried out. It was found that all the methods of assessment are generalized in the rising world of personalized medicine the person griva parinaah with individuals own Anguli pramaan could become a unique Personalized predictor of medovruddhi.
Constraints Perceived by Buffalo Farmers in Interaction with Information Providing Stakeholders
Authors: Kumar Kamal , Chander Mahesh , Dixit V. B. , Tripathi Hema
Published: December 2020

The present study was conducted in Haryana. The 120 buffalo farmers from twelve villages constituted the sample size for the present study. An ex-post facto research design was used for the study. Farmers were asked to rank the constraints that they faced in their interaction with stakeholders. The constraints were studied under four subheads viz., farmers related, extension related, veterinary and infrastructure-related, and other constraints. It was found that low extension agency contact and lack of information about stakeholders were the most important farmers’ related constraints. Most serious extension-related constraints were less focus of state department of animal husbandry personnel on extension activities, unavailability of information in the local language, poor availability of buffalo related literature. The most severe veterinary and infrastructural constraints were lack of rapport of farmers with veterinary surgeons, less availability of veterinary surgeons, inadequate number of veterinary functionaries. Less information on marketing channels, less information on credit/loan, source of credit availability were other most serious constraints that were acting as impediments in their interaction with stakeholders. The perceived constraints can be overcome by increasing extension agency contact, increasing social participation, availing more communication media to the farmers, providing buffalo related literature in the local language, increasing the number of veterinarians per thousand animals, off-campus training, efficient management of cooperatives, more information on market and farm credit, need-based information, and context-specific information to the farmers. The findings of the present research would provide new insights about the impediments in the interaction of buffalo farmers with stakeholders.
Microbial Contamination Potential and Antibiotic Resistance Profile of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli Isolated from Ipomoea batatas Leaf
Authors: Attien Paul Yao , Kouassi Clément Kouassi , Wele Mamadou , Sina Haziz , Moussa Lamine Baba-
Published: December 2020

Traditional leafy vegetables are recommended because there are important sources of nutrients and they protect against certain non-communicable diseases. This study aimed at assessing the microbiological quality of Ipomoea batatas leaves and evaluating the susceptibility to antibiotics of isolated S. aureus and E. coli strains.

Heighten samples of I. batatas leaves collected were analyzed for research / enumeration of mesophilic total aerobic flora, enterobacteriaceae, yeasts, molds, fecal coliforms, fecal streptococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella strains and Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus. The microorganisms were identified using appropriate medium and classical biochemical tests. The susceptibility to eleven conventional antibiotics was investigated by the disk diffusion method.

The I. batatas leaves showed high contamination by various flora, in particular flora indicative of general pollution (aerobic mesophilic germs, yeasts and molds, enterobacteria) and flora of fecal origin (fecal coliforms and fecal streptococcus). In addition, the presence of pathogenic species such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella sp. was noted in the samples analyzed. Globally, the highest resistance proportion has been observed with penicillin (~65%) and none of the S. aureus strains was resistant to vancomycin.

From a microbiological point of view, Ipomoea batatas leaf intended for consumption is not suitable for human consumption. It is therefore important to educate producers to improve their production route in order to have better microbiological quality I. batatas leaves.
Equilibrium Studies for Removal of Cadmium (II) Ions Removal from Water Using Activated Carbon Derived from Macadamia Intergrifolia Nutshell Waste Powder
Authors: Kamau Amos , Thiong’o George , Kakoi Beatrice
Published: December 2020

Heavy metals have continued to be of great concern in research as major pollutants of water. Adsorption using low cost adsorbent is a low cost method of the removal heavy metal ions from aqueous solution. In this study activated carbon derived from macadamia intergrifolia nutshell powder was considered as an alternative low cost adsorbent for the removal of Cd(II) ions from aqueous solution. Various physicochemical parameters which included sorbent mass, and initial metal ions concentration isotherms using sorption models were determined. Results from the experiment indicated the optimum values for sorbent mass as 0.3 grams, and initial metal ions concentration as 8mg/l. Adsorption isotherms were found to fit well in Langmuir model (R2=0.9935), Javanovic model (R2 =0.9857) and Freundlich model (R2=0.9911). Additionally, for Langmuir model the value of separation factor (KL) was in the range of 0 to 1 indicating a favorable reaction. For Jovanovic model adsorption energy was found to be 1.00334 l/mg thus an indication of binding vibrations during Cd(II) ions adsorption.  FTIR spectrum revealed that the presence of O-H at νmax 3389 cm-1, COO- at νmax 2367 cm-1, C=0 at νmax 1593 cm-1,  C-O at νmax 1344 cm-1, P-O at νmax 1206 cm-1 and POO-H at νmax 1110cm-1 functional group in activated carbon enhanced Cd(II) ions removal.  The study revealed that activated carbon derived from macadamia intergrifolia nutshell can be used to remove Cd(II) ions from water.
Monotremata
Authors: Musser Anne M
Published: December 2020

Living monotremes (the platypus and echidnas) are highly specialised egg‐laying mammals found only in Australia and New Guinea. However, their fossil history extends back to the Mesozoic Era. The past distribution of platypuses included Antarctica and southern South America, and their history extends back to the Mesozoic. Monotremes are, therefore, the oldest living mammalian group known. Platypuses are semi‐aquatic, feeding on benthic invertebrates in rivers, streams and lakes of eastern Australia. Echidnas are spine‐covered, terrestrial insectivores. There is just a single species of living platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), but four living species of echidna: the short‐beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) from Australia and New Guinea, and three species of long‐beaked echidna (genusZaglossus), all of which live only in New Guinea. All monotreme species face challenges from climate change, development and human pressure. The platypus and long‐beaked echidnas are especially vulnerable, and there is much concern for their future.

Key Concepts

Monotremes are mammals that lay eggs, like the earliest mammals, instead of bearing live young like all other living mammals.

Living monotremes are found only in Australia and New Guinea, but platypuses were once distributed across southern Gondwana to the southern tip of South America.

Many anatomical features in monotremes have an ancient heritage, such as the retention of certain skull bones and additional bones in the shoulder girdle.

Both living monotreme types – platypuses and echidnas – are highly specialised for particular niches.

Monotremes have a ‘sixth sense’ that helps them find cryptic prey: uniquely sensitive beaks or bills with both touch receptors and electroreceptors.

Platypuses are extremely well adapted for life in water, with a wide bill, streamlined bodies, webbed feet and thick, waterproof fur.

Echidnas are toothless, spine‐covered ant and termite specialists with long tubular beaks.

There are two types of echidnas, the short‐beaked echidna from Australia and New Guinea and three very rare long‐beaked echidna species known only from New Guinea.

Although the fossil record for monotremes is over 100 million years old, they are now threatened by climate change, hunting and development pressures, and their ongoing survival is not assured.
Mentor Concepts to Further Leadership Development in Adult Education Contexts
Authors: Hansman Catherine A.
Published: December 2020

Adult education leaders need to provide visionary and ethical leadership while advocating for the field of adult education. Thus, mentoring concepts might assist in developing leaders in adult education formal and informal contexts.
Mentoring Matters: Experiences in Mentoring Black Leaders in Higher Education
Authors: Jernigan Quintara A. , Dudley Manuel C. , Hatch Bryle Henderson
Published: December 2020

This article explores the intersection of mentorship as it concerns the leadership experiences and development of Black men and women in senior leadership in higher education.
Thermally Stable Charge Transport Materials for Vapor‐Phase Fabrication of Perovskite Devices
Authors: Qiu Chenyue , Dumont Antoine , Li Peicheng , Lu Zheng-Hong
Published: December 2020

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have attracted tremendous research interest in recent years. Cesium lead bromide's (CsPbBr3) high color purity, intrinsically high photoluminescence quantum yield, and tunable emission wavelength make it a strong candidate as an emitter for light‐emitting applications. Organic charge transport materials and their impact on the growth mode of the perovskite layer have a pivotal influence on the device performance. Herein, it is reported that hole transport layers (HTLs) with higher glass transition temperatures (Tg) are critical to facilitate the growth of crystalline perovskites and thus the color purity. Second phase regions with higher Pb density are observed in films growing on HTLs with inadequate lower Tg. A minimum 100 °C glass transition is found to be essential to grow cesium lead bromides with sharp emission peaks. In addition to high glass transition temperature, high ionization energy (>5.6 eV) is also found to be important to remove the HTL/perovskite injection barrier. The optimal device in this study is fabricated with 3,5‐di(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)tetraphenylsilane (SimCP2) as the HTL and the device shows a very sharp 19 nm full‐width at half‐maximum emission.
Organic luminescent materials: The concentration on aggregates from aggregation‐induced emission
Authors: Yang Jie , Fang Manman , Li Zhen
Published: December 2020

The research of organic luminescent materials in aggregate has drawn more and more attention for their wide applications. To adjust the luminescent properties for aggregates, a deep understanding of the corresponding internal mechanism is needed. In this short review, a brief introduction of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) and some other solid state luminescence behaviors derived from or parallel to AIE is presented. Particularly, the relationship between emission property and intermolecular/intramolecular interactions is summarized, with the aim to guide the further development of organic optoelectronic materials in aggregate.
Unraveling the spatial distribution of the acidity of HZSM‐5 zeolite on the level of crystal grains
Authors: Xian Xiaochao , Chen Jun , Chu Yirong , He Mengjun , Zhao Shuo , Dong Lichun , Ren Jingzheng
Published: December 2020

Here we developed a new method to quantitatively characterize the spatial distribution of the Brønsted acidity of HZSM‐5 zeolite on the crystal grains level indirectly. The Brønsted acid sites of HZSM‐5 zeolite completely covered or blocked by previous coke deposition were released gradually from the outer surface to the center of the crystal grains via shrinking core mode isothermal oxidation with high temperature and low oxygen concentration. The spatial distribution of the coke was obtained based on the one‐dimensional position coordinate Lrp through building and solving an enhanced shrinking core model. Then the released acidity characterized by n‐propylamine temperature‐programmed decomposition was correlated to the specific position of Lrp. The results show that the acid density is roughly homogenous while the acid strength is heterogeneous within the crystal grains. From the outer surface to the center of the crystal grains, the strength of the Brønsted acid sites increase gradually.
A novel simulation approach for particulate flows during filtration
Authors: Qi Minhui , Li Mingzhong , Moghanloo Rouzbeh G. , Guo Tiankui
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a novel approach for simulation of filtration process when velocity gradient within pore space cannot be neglected. The new model is useful for accurate prediction of the filtration performance and particle retention efficiency. Artificial porous media such as filters, by design, have a large surface‐to‐volume ratio because of an inherent homogeneity present within their structure; the homogenous structure is realized due to organized packing of grains as building blocks, which leads to a significant velocity gradient inner pore space. In this work, the inner‐pore flow characteristics of two different homogeneous packing patterns (cubic and oblique hexagonal packing) were examined. The multiple constricted tubes analogy was adopted to model porous media to simplify the inner‐pore geometrical structure. A new integrated simulation approach was utilized through implementing the particle trajectory model to every unit bed element of the simulation domain. The accuracy of the numerical simulations used in this study was verified by comparing the particle distribution pattern and penetration depth obtained from simulations to those monitored via a visual experiment. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to study parameters that may affect the particle distribution and penetration length, such as grain‐to‐particle size ratio, flow rate, and fluid viscosity. The simulation method utilized in this paper provides an in‐depth understanding of the fine particle migration during filtration process through artificial porous media, and, thus, provide useful insights for improved filtration design.
Family characteristics, perceived environment for physical activity, and childhood obesity: An approach with structural equation models
Authors: do Carmo Ariene Silva , Mendes Larissa Loures , Pessoa Milene Cristine , Meireles Adriana Lucia , da Silva Antônio Augusto Moura , dos Santos Luana Caroline
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the direct and indirect effects of family characteristics and the perceived neighborhood environment on obesity risks among schoolchildren.

Methods

Through phone contact with the child's mothers/guardians, the perceptions about the aspects of the neighborhood that could limit or promote health. Physical activity, socioeconomic data, self‐reported weight and height, and ultra‐processed consumption of the respondents were evaluated, in addition to the screen time of both mothers and children. A hybrid model of structural equations was used to test the direct and indirect effects of family and environmental variables on childhood obesity.

Setting

Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Subjects

A total of 322 children from 9 to 10 years old from municipal schools and their respective mothers/guardians.

Results

Childhood obesity was positively associated with obesity among mothers/guardians and with the latent variable “socioeconomic status (SES).” It was observed that the child's guardians positively influenced childhood obesity through their own habits, such as screen time and consumption of ultra‐processed products, with obesity of mothers/guardians as mediators of both associations. There were no direct and indirect effects of the latent variables of the perceived environment in childhood obesity.

Conclusion

Family characteristics are important determinants of childhood obesity and should be considered when designing prevention strategies. Parental perceptions of neighborhood characteristics did not have an influence on childhood obesity.
Facile synthesis of novel fluorescent phenol formaldehyde resin nanospheres for drug release
Authors: Wang Shaohua , Yang Ping , Sun Xiangfei , Xing Honglong , Shi Jianjun
Published: December 2020

A highly‐efficient nano‐medical carrier system was constructed for drug release based on a facile synthesis, excellent fluorescence, and structure of phenol formaldehyde resin (PFR). The PFR was easily synthesized through a simple one‐step hydrothermal reaction, reduction and etching process, and a silane coupling agent modification process. The multiple functionalized drug delivery system, defined as PFR‐NH2@DOX was constructed by loading Adriamycin (DOX) into PFR. Drug release results in vitro displayed a DOX content of 145 mg g−1prodrug nanosphere has excellent pH‐triggered drug release (about 84.71%) within 72 h at pH 5 solution. The fluorescence recovery of PFR after DOX release indicates the potential application in fluorescence imaging and controlled drug release.
Preparation and Application of Microelectrodes at the Single‐Molecule Scale
Authors: Gao Tengyang , Liu Yuyan , Zhang Xueqing , Bai Jie , Hong Wenjing
Published: December 2020

Molecular electronics offers a potential solution for the miniaturization of electronics beyond conventional silicon electronics. A key goal of molecular electronics is to fabricate the single‐molecule junction with the functions of electronic units. The term “molecular junction” means a molecular cluster or a single molecule incorporated between two microelectrodes, and electrons are transported across it. The methods of constructing molecular junctions dynamically were developed, such as STM‐BJ, AFM‐BJ, and MCBJ, providing precise control of the gap and easy measurement of thousands of junctions. Electrodes based on these techniques are commonly called microelectrodes because at least one dimension is on the micron scale. In this manuscript, we summarize the preparation methods of microelectrodes and their application in single‐molecule measurements. In addition, we discuss the electrode factor that influences the molecular electrical properties, such as material, curvature radius and cone angle, and further provide a brief prospect of molecular electronics.
Recent Advances in Stability of Carbon‐Based Anodes for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Jiali , Wang Huwei , Zang Xiaobei , Zhai Dengyun , Kang Feiyu
Published: December 2020

The commercialization of potassium‐ion batteries requires promising anodes with excellent reversible capacity and cycle stability. Graphite anodes have attracted extensive research owing to the formation of stable intercalation compounds, which also helps to focus attention on low‐cost carbon‐based anodes. However, the slow diffusion of potassium ion (K+) and structural damage of graphite caused by large size may lead to capacity decay. Herein, the modification strategies have been summarized, including microstructure regulation, heteroatom doping and building stable solid electrolyte interphase. And the opportunities and challenges faced by these improvement methods are proposed. Meanwhile, carbon‐based materials used as hosts or conductive carriers to improve the performance of other anodes are also summarized.
Tumor heterogeneity and the potential role of liquid biopsy in bladder cancer
Authors: Huang Hai‐Ming , Li Hai‐Xia
Published: December 2020

Bladder cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease that characterized by genomic instability and a high mutation rate. Heterogeneity in tumor may partially explain the diversity of responses to targeted therapies and the various clinical outcomes. A combination of cytology and cystoscopy is the standard methodology for BC diagnosis, prognosis, and disease surveillance. However, genomics analyses of single tumor‐biopsy specimens may underestimate the mutational burden of heterogeneous tumors. Liquid biopsy, as a promising technology, enables analysis of tumor components in the bodily fluids, such as blood and urine, at multiple time points and provides a minimally invasive approach that can track the evolutionary dynamics and monitor tumor heterogeneity. In this review, we describe the multiple faces of BC heterogeneity at the genomic and transcriptional levels and how they affect clinical care and outcomes. We also summarize the outcomes of liquid biopsy in BC, which plays a potential role in revealing tumor heterogeneity. Finally, we discuss the challenges that must be addressed before liquid biopsy can be widely used in clinical treatment.
Application of decoy oligodeoxynucleotides strategy for inhibition of cell growth and reduction of metastatic properties in nonresistant and erlotinib‐resistant SW480 cell line
Authors: Asadi Zoleykha , Fathi Mojtaba , Rismani Elham , Bigdelou Zahra , Johari Behrooz
Published: December 2020

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a critical regulator for angiogenesis, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and drug resistance. Resistance toward EGF receptor (EGFR) inhibitors is a significant clinical concern for metastatic colon cancer patients. The present study aimed to evaluate the blocking influences of STAT3 decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) on the STAT3 survival signaling pathway in nonresistant and erlotinib‐resistant SW480 colon cancer cells. First, STAT3 decoy and scramble ODNs were designed according to STAT3 elements in the promoter region of MYCT1 gene and tested for the interaction of STAT3 protein with designed ODNs via in silico molecular docking study. Then, the efficiency of transfection and subcellular localization of ODNs were assessed using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. Cell viability, cell cycle, and apoptosis tests, scratch and colony formation assays, and real‐time PCR were also used to study the cancerous properties of cells. A considerable decrease in proliferation of colon cancer cells was observed with blockade of STAT3 signaling due to cell cycle arrest and induced apoptosis via downregulation of cyclin D1 and Bcl‐XL, respectively. Furthermore, upon transfecting STAT3 decoy ODNs, colony formation potential and migration activity in both SW480 colon cancer cell lines were decreased compared to the control groups. From this study, it could be concluded that STAT3 is critical for cell growth inhibition and metastatic properties reduction of resistant SW480 colon cancer cells; therefore, STAT3 decoy ODNs could be considered as potential therapeutics along with current remedies for treating drug‐resistant colon cancer.
Optimization and Preparation of a Gel Polymer Electrolyte Membrane for Supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Wei , Li Linlin , Zhang Biao , Yang Qianyun , Zou Hanbo , Zheng Wenzhi , Chen Shengzhou
Published: December 2020

Supercapacitors have great potential in the hybrid fuel automobile market because of their high power density and fast charge and discharge, in which the working electrolyte of supercapacitors is the key to determine their performance. Optimization and preparations of poly(vinylidene difluoride)‐hexafluoropropylene/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PVDF‐HFP/PMMA) gel polymer electrolyte membranes for supercapacitors based on Design Expert 8.0 software are described. The range of conditions is determined by monofactor analysis. The optimal preparation conditions are obtained by response surface simulation optimization.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Non‐invasive Study of Hydrodynamics Inside Gas‐Liquid Taylor Flows
Authors: Kemper Philip , Küstermann Ekkehard , Dreher Wolfgang , Helmers Thorben , Mießner Ulrich , Besser Benjamin , Thöming Jorg
Published: December 2020

Multiphase flows are of major importance in today's industrial processes as many products originate from gas‐liquid reactions. The hydrodynamics within the wake behind the bubbles is essential as product selectivity is determined by the residence times in these mixing zones. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a wide range of options for the investigation of multiphase flows. Here, non‐invasive MRI flow measurements of buoyancy‐driven N2 Taylor bubbles, spatially fixed inside a countercurrent flow of water, are performed. An experimental setup is presented, enabling the generation of Taylor bubbles inside a horizontal bore MRI scanner. Furthermore, a suitable MRI sequence allowing a time‐dependent analysis of the present flow field is described. The obtained MRI results are qualitatively compared to PIV images acquired in the same setup.
Regioselective B—H/C—H Bond Activation at Azo‐Substituted Carboranes Induced by Half‐Sandwich Iridium(III) Complex
Authors: Cui Peng‐Fei , Gao Yang , Guo Shu‐Ting , Jin Guo‐Xin
Published: December 2020

Main observation and conclusion

We report herein a practical approach for regio‐selective B—H/C—H bond activation at azo‐substituted carboranes. The reaction proceeded through Iridium(III)‐induced selective B—H/C—H bond activations based on an azo directing group. Through this strategy, a series of mononuclear, trinuclear and tetranuclear cyclometalated iridium complexes containing Cp*Ir—B or Cp*Ir—C bonds were successfully isolated in a high yield. In this work, efficient routes are developed through one‐pot reactions to prepare polynuclear organometallic complexes.
Circulating interleukin 6, androgen deprivation therapy, and fatigue in prostate cancer: Is inflammation the link?
Authors: Nazha Bassel , Bilen Mehmet Asim
Published: December 2020

Fatigue is a common symptom among patients with prostate cancer receiving androgen deprivation therapy. A proinflammatory state with elevated interleukin 6 levels likely mediates fatigue in this patient population, might contribute to prostate cancer's limited response to immune checkpoint inhibitors, and could be targeted with exercise and nutritional interventions to improve quality of life.
A comparative analysis of cone photoreceptor morphology in bowhead and beluga whales
Authors: Smith Matthew A. , Waugh David A. , McBurney Denise L. , George John C. , Suydam Robert S. , Thewissen Johannes G. M. , Crish Samuel D.
Published: December 2020

The cetacean visual system is a product of selection pressures favoring underwater vision, yet relatively little is known about it across taxa. Previous studies report several mutations in the opsin genetic sequence in cetaceans, suggesting the evolutionary complete or partial loss of retinal cone photoreceptor function in mysticete and odontocete lineages, respectively. Despite this, limited anatomical evidence suggests cone structures are partially maintained but with absent outer and inner segments in the bowhead retina. The functional consequence and anatomical distributions associated with these unique cone morphologies remain unclear. The current study further investigates the morphology and distribution of cone photoreceptors in the bowhead whale and beluga retina and evaluates the potential functional capacity of these cells' alternative to photoreception. Refined histological and advanced microscopic techniques revealed two additional cone morphologies in the bowhead and beluga retina that have not been previously described. Two proteins involved in magnetosensation were present in these cone structures suggesting the possibility for an alternative functional role in responding to changes in geomagnetic fields. These findings highlight a revised understanding of the unique evolution of cone and gross retinal anatomy in cetaceans, and provide prefatory evidence of potential functional reassignment of these cells.
Unmanned surface vessel obstacle avoidance with prior knowledge‐based reward shaping
Authors: Wang Wei , Luo Xiangfeng , Li Yang , Xie Shaorong
Published: December 2020

Autonomous obstacle avoidance control of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in complex marine environments is always fundamental for its scientific search and detection. Traditional methods usually model USV motion and environments in a mathematical way that needs perceptual information. Unfortunately, it is difficult to provide sufficient perceptual information due to complex marine environments, resulting in inaccurate modeling. Reinforcement learning has recently enjoyed increasing popularity in the problem of obstacle avoidance since it can settle problems by partially observable environment information. However, the autonomous USV obstacle avoidance using reinforcement learning is still facing the challenge of designing appropriate reward functions under complex marine environments. To address these issues, we propose a prior knowledge‐based USV reinforcement learning obstacle avoidance algorithm. In this algorithm, an actor‐critic network is used as the main architecture of the algorithm, and prior knowledge‐based reward shaping used to design relevant reward function for USV obstacle avoidance. A standard USV based on a visual sensor is designed, and the state input of the algorithm is through USV's front vision sensor. We conducted simulation experiments and results prove that our algorithm can effectively converge, and USV achieves high velocity and low collision rate in the complex marine environment.
Excited‐State Evolution of Keto‐Carotenoids after Excess Energy Excitation in the UV Region
Authors: Khan Tuhin , Litvín Radek , Šebelík Václav , Polívka Tomáš
Published: December 2020

Carotenoids are molecules with rich photophysics that are in many biological systems involved in photoprotection. Yet, their response to excess energy excitation is only scarcely studied. Here we have explored excited state properties of three keto‐carotenoids, echinenone, canthaxanthin and rhodoxanthin after excess energy excitation to a singlet state absorbing in UV. Though the basic spectral features and kinetics of S2, hot S1, relaxed S1 states remain unchanged upon UV excitation, the clear increase of the S* signal is observed after excess energy excitation, associated with increased S* lifetime. A multiple origin of the S* signal, originating either from specific conformations in the S1 state or from a non‐equilibrated ground state, is confirmed in this work. We propose that the increased amount of energy stored in molecular vibrations, induced by the UV excitation, is the reason for the enhanced S* signal observed after UV excitation. Our data also suggest that a fraction of the UV excited state population may proceed through a non‐sequential pathway, bypassing the S2 state.
Trends in Satellite Remote Sensing for Precision Agriculture
Authors: Mulla David
Published: December 2020

Remote sensing is an essential tool for precision agriculture, allowing producers and crop consultants to monitor spatial and temporal variability in soil properties, crop growth, and crop stress from nutrients, weeds, disease, insects, or water. During the last decade, the number and capabilities of multispectral satellite remote‐sensing products have increased dramatically. This article provides an overview of some of the trends in satellite remote sensing for precision agriculture. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Crop Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/756.
Hepatic angiomyolipoma with predominant epithelioid component: Diagnostic clues on aspiration and core needle biopsies
Authors: De la Sancha Carlo , Khan Shahbaz , Alruwaii Fatimah , Cramer Harvey , Saxena Romil
Published: December 2020

Hepatic angiomyolipoma (HAML) is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm that belongs to the perivascular epithelioid tumor family. Though it is characteristically, a triphasic tumor composed of smooth muscle, blood vessels, and adipocytes, the smooth muscle cells are often epithelioid and can represent the near‐entirety of the tumor. A HAML composed predominantly of epithelioid smooth muscle cells occurring in the liver presents significant diagnostic challenges as many liver tumors are composed of large epithelioid cells. Furthermore, even if the tumor is not composed predominantly of epithelioid smooth muscle cells, this may be the only component present in a fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) or core needle biopsy. A 38‐year‐old female with a 3 month history of abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea was found to have a 12 cm right hepatic lobe mass. FNA biopsy revealed a moderately cellular specimen composed of plump epithelioid cells with indistinct cell borders, low N:C ratio, round to oval nuclei, fine chromatin, occasional nucleoli, and abundant vacuolated to fibrillary cytoplasm. Rare intranuclear inclusions and occasional foamy macrophages were noted. Concurrent core biopsy revealed large polygonal cells with eccentric nuclei and clear, vacuolated to granular, eosinophilic cytoplasm that stained strongly for HMB45, confirming the diagnosis of HAML. Because HAML is a rare tumor, this diagnosis can be easily overlooked; cognizance of the typical cytologic, histologic, and immunophenotypic findings is crucial to establishing a diagnosis.
Loss of Grhl3 is correlated with altered cellular protrusions in the non‐neural ectoderm during neural tube closure
Authors: Jaffe Eric , Niswander Lee
Published: December 2020

Background

The transcription factor Grainyhead‐like 3 (GRHL3) has multiple roles in a variety of tissues during development including epithelial patterning and actin cytoskeletal regulation. During neural tube closure (NTC) in the mouse embryo, GRHL3 is expressed and functions in the non‐neural ectoderm (NNE). Two important functions of GRHL3 are regulating the actin cytoskeleton during NTC and regulating the boundary between the NNE and neural ectoderm. However, an open question that remains is whether these functions explain the caudally restricted neural tube defect (NTD) of spina bifida observed in Grhl3 mutants.

Results

Using scanning electron microscopy and immunofluorescence based imaging on Grhl3 mutants and wildtype controls, we show that GRHL3 is dispensable for NNE identity or epithelial maintenance in the caudal NNE but is needed for regulation of cellular protrusions during NTC. Grhl3 mutants have decreased lamellipodia relative to wildtype embryos during caudal NTC, first observed at the onset of delays when lamellipodia become prominent in wildtype embryos. At the axial level of NTD, half of the mutants show increased and disorganized filopodia and half lack cellular protrusions.

Conclusion

These data suggest that altered cellular protrusions during NTC contribute to the etiology of NTD in Grhl3 mutants.