bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abordagem (POPBL) aplicada ao ensino de processos de separação na engenharia química
Authors: Santos Kássia Graciele dos , Silva André Luiz , Toigo Sandriny , Lima Leonan José , Oliveira Jessica , Minaré Murilo Melo , Martins Pablo Raphael Gonçalves , Dantas Sandra Cristina , Silvério Beatriz Cristina
Published: January 2021

Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas e Organizada em Projetos (POPBL) é uma metodologia ativa de ensino centrada no aluno, no qual a partir de um problema base, o aluno pesquisa os conteúdos relacionados ao problema e propõe um projeto, que constitui um produto final do processo de aprendizagem. Este projeto é resultado da resolução de uma situação problema criada para colocar o aluno de engenharia química em contato com problemas reais da profissão do engenheiro químico, relacionada com processo de separação de misturas, empregando as técnicas de transferência de massa como promotora dessa separação. Neste trabalho, os alunos foram motivados a investigar seus conhecimentos de engenharia para propor e simular um projeto sustentável, viável e com baixo custo para a purificação de água de um rio a partir de uma situação-problema. A partir de ensaios experimentais no leito construído e empacotado com a biomassa folha de goiabeira, foi possível calcular o tempo em que o leito fixo consegue operar na limpeza do efluente, bem como a capacidade máxima de adsorção desse corante na biomassa, que foi cerca de 20 g de corante/kg de biomassa, para os leitos operando em série. Em termos de aprendizado, os alunos relataram que o projeto possibilitou desenvolver outras habilidades além do conhecimento técnico da disciplina, como o trabalho em grupo, a proatividade, sociabilidade, empatia, habilidades de comunicação e expressão áudio-visual. Assim, acredita-se que o principal objetivo do projeto foi alcançado.
A ergonomia no ambiente de trabalho dos enfermeiros do samu: uma visão da enfermagem
Authors: Silva Marciele de Lima , Silva Mariana Pereira Barbosa , Leite Airton César , Oliveira Elton Filipe Pinheiro de , Fernandes Ana Rachel Cavalcante Araújo , Jatobá Diana Nogueira Villa , Santos Francinalda Pinheiro , Castro Mara Cléssia de Oliveira , Martins Vinícius de Sousa , Ribeiro Aclênia Maria Nascimento , Moura Layanne Cavalcante de , Rodrigues Cicera Leiane Sampaio , Freire Ericka Costa de Azevedo
Published: January 2021

A ergonomia é considerada uma das principais estratégias na prevenção de algumas doenças laborais, e é utilizada com o objetivo de identificar situações desfavoráveis durante a realização de atividades nos ambientes de trabalho, a fim de reduzir os riscos sem prejuízo do desempenho profissional. Nesse contexto, o Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência constantemente expõe os seus trabalhadores de enfermagem a essas circunstâncias, devido às especificidades dos serviços de assistência direta ao paciente fora do ambiente hospitalar, visando à manutenção da vida em situação de urgência e emergência antes da chegada a uma instituição de atendimento especializado. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar artigos científicos da área de saúde que abordam as condições de trabalho no SAMU e refletir acerca das melhorias no posto de trabalho do profissional de enfermagem no SAMU. Trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica realizada nas bases de dados científicos Medline, Lilacs, Scielo e BVS. Para seleção dos artigos foram utilizados, os descritores: Ergonomia física, Enfermagem, SAMU e Atendimento Pré-hospitalar. Os resultados demonstraram que os trabalhadores de enfermagem estão expostos a inúmeros riscos ocupacionais causados por fatores químicos, físicos, mecânicos, biológicos, ergonômicos e psicossociais, é importante que os mesmos sejam informados e treinados para evitar problemas de saúde, e métodos de controle devem ser instituídos para prevenir acidentes. Em vista disso, conclui-se que este estudo é relevante para a literatura no tocante ao incentivo do conhecimento teórico-prático acerca da ergonomia no ambiente hospitalar.
Efeitos de exercícios de Pilates na função muscular, alinhamento pélvico e intensidade dolorosa de portadores de dor lombar crônica inespecífica: estudo preliminar
Authors: Antonelli Bruna Angela , Lima Jefferson Cesar Bezerra , Santos Geovani Alves dos , Jesus Júnior Everaldo Ramos de , Lôbo Simone Ferreira , Sá Camila Almeida , Guimarães Manoel Pereira , Gambassi Bruno Bavaresco , Lopes Clécio de Lima , Souza Neydson André Solposto Marques de , Angelo Rita di Cássia de Oliveira , Schwingel Paulo Adriano
Published: January 2021

Introdução: O método Pilates tem sido indicado como alternativa viável para tratamento de pessoas com dor lombar crônica inespecífica (DLCI). Uma possível hipótese reside na melhora da resistência dos músculos do complexo lombo-pélvico (core) associado a diminuição da sensação dolorosa nessa população. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito de uma intervenção terapêutica baseada no método Pilates na função muscular do quadril e do tronco, alinhamento pélvico resistência do core e intensidade dolorosa de indivíduos portadores de DLCI. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo de nove casos de ambos os sexos, sendo cinco homens, que participaram de uma intervenção de 9 semanas baseada no método Pilates no solo e com aparelhos. A intervenção teve progressão ao longo das semanas no nível de exercícios do básico para intermediário e avançado. Foram realizadas 3 sessões semanais com duração de 60 minutos e a prescrição do exercício foi realizada de forma individualizada. Previamente a intervenção foram avaliadas resistência muscular, alinhamento lombopélvico e sensação dolorosa. Resultados: Ao fim da intervenção foram encontrados resultados clínicos significativos para todas as variáveis. Interessantemente, foi observado que a melhoria do alinhamento pélvico do lado esquerdo associou-se à redução da sensação dolorosa. Conclusão: A intervenção terapêutica de nove semanas do método Pilates foi eficiente para o aumento da resistência dos músculos do core, para melhora do alinhamento biomecânico da pelve e do tronco bem como para diminuição da percepção dolorosa em indivíduos com DLCI.
Oral Estradiol Impact on Mitigating Unloading-Induced Bone Loss in Ovary-Intact Rats
Authors: Mantri Anita V. , Allaway Heather C. M. , Brezicha Jessica E. , Hogan Harry A. , Bloomfield Susan A.
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND: The impact of the spaceflight environment on endogenous estrogen production in female crewmembers and the resulting impact on other adaptations, like bone loss, is an under-investigated topic. Hence, we investigated the interaction of exogenous 17- estradiol (E2)
treatment and disuse to test the hypothesis that E2 treatment would mitigate disuse-induced bone loss.METHODS: There were 40 virgin female Sprague-Dawley rats (5 mo old) randomized to placebo (PL; 0 ppm E2) or estrogen (E2; 10 ppm E2) treatments, delivered via custom-made rodent
diets; half of each group was randomized to either weightbearing (WB) or hindlimb unloading (HU) for 39 d.RESULTS: We observed expected lower values after HU (615%) in volumetric BMD and cross-sectional areas at the proximal tibia metaphysis (PTM, by pQCT), 20% lower %BV/TV (nonsignificant)
at the PTM, and 11% lower femoral neck maximal load; none of these HU-induced impacts were modified by E2. Impaired PTM periosteal expansion was observed in all E2-treated rats, with smaller (13 to 18%) cross-sectional areas. Midshaft tibial geometry was unaffected by E2 treatment, but large
reductions (73 to 81%) in periosteal bone formation indices were observed in E2-treated rats.DISCUSSION: In summary, modest supplementation of exogenous E2 did not mitigate decrements in volumetric BMD, PTM cross-sectional geometry, or femoral neck strength observed with HU. However,
numerous independent impacts of E2 treatment were observed, with significant suppression of periosteal bone formation indices. If maintained over time, this might impact negatively on cortical bone integrity during prolonged nonweightbearing.Mantri AV, Allaway HCM, Brezicha JE, Hogan
HA, Bloomfield SA. Oral estradiol impact on mitigating unloading-induced bone loss in ovary-intact rats. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(2):6574.
Flight Crew Alertness and Sleep Relative to Timing of In-Flight Rest Periods in Long-Haul Flights
Authors: Gregory Kevin B. , Soriano-Smith Rhiannon N. , Lamp Amanda C. M. , Hilditch Cassie J. , Rempe Michael J. , Flynn-Evans Erin E. , Belenky Gregory L.
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND: In-flight breaks are used during augmented long-haul flight operations, allowing pilots a sleep opportunity. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration duty and rest regulations restrict the pilot flying the landing to using the third rest break. It is unclear how effective
these restrictions are on pilots ability to obtain sleep. We hypothesized there would be no difference in self-reported sleep, alertness, and fatigue between pilots taking the second vs. third rest breaks.METHODS: Pilots flying augmented operations in two U.S.-based commercial airlines
were eligible for the study. Volunteers completed a survey at top-of-descent (TOD), including self-reported in-flight sleep duration, and Samn-Perelli fatigue and Karolinska Sleepiness Scale ratings. We compared the second to third rest break using noninferiority analysis. The influence of
time of day (home-base time; HBT) was evaluated in 4-h blocks using repeated measures ANOVA.RESULTS: From 787 flights 500 pilots provided complete data. The second rest break was noninferior to the third break for self-reported sleep duration (1.5 0.7 h vs. 1.4 0.7 h), fatigue (2.0
1.0 vs. 2.9 1.3), and sleepiness (2.6 1.4 vs. 3.8 1.8) at TOD for landing pilots. Measures of sleep duration, fatigue, and sleepiness were influenced by HBT circadian time of day.DISCUSSION: We conclude that self-reported in-flight sleep, fatigue, and sleepiness from landing pilots
taking the second in-flight rest break are equivalent to or better than pilots taking the third break. Our findings support providing pilots with choice in taking the second or third in-flight rest break during augmented operations.Gregory KB, Soriano-Smith RN, Lamp ACM, Hilditch CJ,
Rempe MJ, Flynn-Evans EE, Belenky GL. Flight crew alertness and sleep relative to timing of in-flight rest periods in long-haul flights. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(2):8391.
Aerospace Implications of Key Neurological Conditions
Authors: Khurana Vini G. , Jithoo Rondhir , Barnett Michael
Published: January 2021

INTRODUCTION: The neurological impact (or lack thereof) of certain medical histories and imaging findings is important to understand in the context of air and spaceflight. There are a number of neurological conditions that, if present in pilots and astronauts, carry variable
(and sometimes adverse) functional implications for safety and overall mission success. In this systematic overview, the authors will refer to the relevant clinical and radiological features of brain tumors and vascular anomalies, cerebral edema and intracranial hypertension, concussion and
the traumatic brain injury (TBI) spectrum, hematomas, cerebrospinal fluid circulation anomalies including hydrocephalus and sequestrations, spinal degenerative changes, and cerebral ischemia and demyelination. It is notable that these last two conditions have recently been reported to be a
complication in some people with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A paradigm for practical neurological workup of symptomatic pilots and astronauts will be discussed, as will the controversial notion of pre-emptive radiological screening (vs. not screening) in asymptomatic or clinically
occult situations. The concepts of medical surveillance in the setting of known or diagnosed pathologies, and expert panel review and simulator and flight checks in complex neurological cases, are also elaborated on in this paper. We believe this overview will contribute toward the enhancement
of a broad understanding of neurological conditions, their clinical workup, and their precautionary management in the setting of aviation and aerospace.Khurana VG, Jithoo R, Barnett M. Aerospace implications of key neurological conditions. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(2):113119.
Delta: The Value That Matters in Fatigue Risk Management
Authors: Lamp Amanda C. M. , Rempe Michael J. , Belenky Gregory L.
Published: January 2021

INTRODUCTION: Noninferiority or equivalence testing are often used when comparing a novel pharmaceutical, operation, or procedure to the current standard designated as safe. Noninferiority and equivalence testing require estimates of a metric called delta: the margin of meaningful
difference. Inappropriate delta margins can lead to invalid conclusions, thereby creating uncertainty about a studys scientific credibility. We recommend that a working group be convened with the following goals: 1) to evaluate delta values currently in use in aviation; 2) to determine if
it is possible to develop a systematic, evidence-based, and replicable process to derive delta values based on statistical properties from population data, rather than a mixture of evidence- and opinion-based processes; and 3) based on the findings of the second goal, update the current delta
values in use in aviation. This working group should include, at a minimum, government agencies and other key stakeholders using these values within operational settings.Lamp ACM, Rempe MJ, Belenky GL. Delta: the value that matters in fatigue risk management. Aerosp Med Hum Perform.
2021; 92(2):127128.
Are Pashtuns the Lost Tribe of Israel?
Authors: Stanizai Zaman
Published: January 2021

The recently resurfaced rumors propped up by certain Israeli circles that the Pashtuns are the lost tribe of Israel has given academic circles a lingering pause. Its biblical claims are anecdotal, its historical documentation is inconsistent, its geographic claims are incoherent, and its linguistic assertions are implausible. The claim doesn’t stand a chance of DNA verification. Politically, the claim has hit a raw nerve in Afghanistan where the legitimacy of Pashtun power as an ethnic majority is challenged while in Pakistan the Pashtun cultural identity is threatened. Amidst this hyped ethnolinguistic strife that threatens regional stability, the ‘why now’ of the resurfaced controversy is as unnerving as the ‘why then’ of its origins is disconcerting. This article examines the claim from historical, cultural, linguistic, and genetic perspectives as it explores the root causes of how the rumors may have started in the first place and the reasons for its persistence.
Factors Associated to the Search for Dental Care in High Risk Pregnancy
Authors: Galvan Jessica , Bordin Danielle , Berger Fadel Cristina , Martins Alessandra , Teixeira Alves Fabiana Bucholdz
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Conducting dental consultations during pregnancy is considered an important challenge in the context of Maternal and Child Health Policies, as it is surrounded by myths rooted among users and health professionals. In this sense, it is important to identify barriers and facilitators to the search for dental assistance in this period, in order to support strategies that make this practice feasible. Objective: To analyze the search for dental care during high-risk pregnancies, according to sociodemographic, gestational and health characteristics. Methods: Observational study with a cross-sectional design, carried out with high-risk pregnant women referred to a teaching hospital in southern Brazil, from January to May 2018. Data collection was performed using an unprecedented structured form and considered as a dependent variable the search for dental care during pregnancy and as independent variables sociodemographic, gestational and dental characteristics. Pearson's chi-square association test and Fisher's exact test were used. Results: To reach the sample of 190 pregnant women at high gestational risk, a total of 230 women considered valid were approached, counting on the following losses: refusal to participate (n=23), no answer to any question (n=10), duplicity in participant approach (n=7). Advanced maternal age (p=0.000) and history of premature birth in previous pregnancies (p=0.047) were factors associated with a lower frequency of seeking dental care in the current pregnancy. On the other hand, the habit of dental consultation prior to the gestational period (p=0.001), the knowledge about the importance of this monitoring (p=0.050), as well as the safety (p=0.000) in performing dental prenatal care, were related positively to the search during pregnancy. Conclusion: Specific incentive strategies and access to dental prenatal care are necessary to neutralize barriers that may compromise the search for oral health services during pregnancy. For this reason, identifying the facilitators and hinders to the dental service is essential for planning effective actions related to prenatal care.
Density Functional Theory-Assisted Synthesis of Self-Curing Epoxy–Acrylic Resin
Authors: Yang Bowen , An Qiufeng
Published: January 2021

A density functional theory-assisted synthesis of self-curing epoxy–acrylic resin (EMPA) is described. The calculated quantum chemistry reaction index of the reacting monomer in the basic state, i.e., the radical reaction index (Fk0), is used as a guide to optimize the synthesis conditions. The reliability of the Fk0-assisted synthesis method is confirmed after evaluating the physical appearance, mechanical properties after curing, and thermal stability of the obtained EMPA. The special functional groups of the resin are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to prove the rationality of the reaction mechanism. The cross-sectional morphology characteristics of the cured resin are observed by field-emission scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the closer the molar ratio of monomers in the reaction to the ratio of Fk0 of the reacting monomers, the better the polymerization performance.
High-Resolution Mapping of Transcription Initiation in the Asexual Stages of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Markus Benedikt M. , Waldman Benjamin S. , Lorenzi Hernan A. , Lourido Sebastian
Published: January 2021

Toxoplasma gondiiis a common parasite of humans and animals, causing life-threatening disease in the immunocompromized, fetal abnormalities when contracted during gestation, and recurrent ocular lesions in some patients. Central to the prevalence and pathogenicity of this protozoan is its ability to adapt to a broad range of environments, and to differentiate between acute and chronic stages. These processes are underpinned by a major rewiring of gene expression, yet the mechanisms that regulate transcription in this parasite are only partially characterized. Deciphering these mechanisms requires a precise and comprehensive map of transcription start sites (TSSs); however,ToxoplasmaTSSs have remained incompletely defined. To address this challenge, we used 5′-end RNA sequencing to genomically assess transcription initiation in both acute and chronic stages ofToxoplasma. Here, we report an in-depth analysis of transcription initiation at promoters, and provide empirically-defined TSSs for 7603 (91%) protein-coding genes, of which only 1840 concur with existing gene models. Comparing data from acute and chronic stages, we identified instances of stage-specific alternative TSSs that putatively generate mRNA isoforms with distinct 5′ termini. Analysis of the nucleotide content and nucleosome occupancy around TSSs allowed us to examine the determinants of TSS choice, and outline features ofToxoplasmapromoter architecture. We also found pervasive divergent transcription atToxoplasmapromoters, clustered within the nucleosomes of highly-symmetrical phased arrays, underscoring chromatin contributions to transcription initiation. Corroborating previous observations, we asserted thatToxoplasma5′ leaders are among the longest of any eukaryote studied thus far, displaying a median length of approximately 800 nucleotides. Further highlighting the utility of a precise TSS map, we pinpointed motifs associated with transcription initiation, including the binding sites of the master regulator of chronic-stage differentiation, BFD1, and a novel motif with a similar positional arrangement present at 44% ofToxoplasmapromoters. This work provides a critical resource for functional genomics inToxoplasma, and lays down a foundation to study the interactions between genomic sequences and the regulatory factors that control transcription in this parasite.
Mutational Dynamics of Aroid Chloroplast Genomes II
Authors: Abdullah  , Henriquez Claudia L. , Croat Thomas B. , Poczai Peter , Ahmed Ibrar
Published: January 2021

The co-occurrence among single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions-deletions (InDels), and oligonucleotide repeats has been reported in prokaryote, eukaryote, and chloroplast genomes. Correlations among SNPs, InDels, and repeats have been investigated in the plant family Araceae previously using pair-wise sequence alignments of the chloroplast genomes of two morphotypes of one species,Colocasia esculentabelonging to subfamily Aroideae (crown group), and four species from the subfamily Lemnoideae, a basal group. The family Araceae is a large family comprising 3,645 species in 144 genera, grouped into eight subfamilies. In the current study, we performed 34 comparisons using 27 species from 7 subfamilies of Araceae to determine correlation coefficients among the mutational events at the family, subfamily, and genus levels. We express strength of the correlations as: negligible or very weak (0.10–0.19), weak (0.20–0.29), moderate (0.30–0.39), strong (0.40–0.69), very strong (0.70–0.99), and perfect (1.00). We observed strong/very strong correlations in most comparisons, whereas a few comparisons showed moderate correlations. The average correlation coefficient was recorded as 0.66 between “SNPs and InDels,” 0.50 between “InDels and repeats,” and 0.42 between “SNPs and repeats.” In qualitative analyses, 95–100% of the repeats at family and sub-family level, while 36–86% of the repeats at genus level comparisons co-occurred with SNPs in the same bins. Our findings show that such correlations among mutational events exist throughout Araceae and support the hypothesis of distribution of oligonucleotide repeats as a proxy for mutational hotspots.
Co-Inhibition of the Immunoproteasome Subunits LMP2 and LMP7 Ameliorates Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Du Sheng-hong , Xiang Yu-jiao , Liu Lu , Nie Mu , Hou Yu , Wang Ling , Li Ban-ban , Xu Miao , Teng Qing-liang , Peng Jun , Hou Ming , Shi Yan
Published: January 2021

The immunoproteasome, a special isoform of the 20S proteasome, is expressed when the cells receive an inflammatory signal. Immunoproteasome inhibition proved efficacy in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. However, the role of the immunoproteasome in the pathogenesis of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) remains unknown. We found that the expression of the immunoproteasome catalytic subunit, large multifunctional protease 2 (LMP2), was significantly upregulated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of active ITP patients compared to those of healthy controls. No significant differences in LMP7 expression were observed between patients and controls. ML604440, an specific LMP2 inhibitor, had no significant impact on the platelet count of ITP mice, while ONX-0914 (an inhibitor of both LMP2 and LMP7) increased the number of platelets. In vitro assays revealed that ONX-0914 decreased the expression of FcγRI in ITP mice and decreased that of FcγRIII in ITP patients, inhibited the activation of CD4+ T cells, and affected the differentiation of Th1 cells in patients with ITP. These results suggest that the inhibition of immunoproteasome is a potential therapeutic approach for ITP patients.
Autophagy Regulation and Photodynamic Therapy: Insights to Improve Outcomes of Cancer Treatment
Authors: Martins Waleska K. , Belotto Renata , Silva Maryana N. , Grasso Daniel , Suriani Maynne D. , Lavor Tayná S. , Itri Rosangela , Baptista Mauricio S. , Tsubone Tayana M.
Published: January 2021

Cancer is considered an age-related disease that, over the next 10 years, will become the most prevalent health problem worldwide. Although cancer therapy has remarkably improved in the last few decades, novel treatment concepts are needed to defeat this disease. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) signalize a pathway to treat and manage several types of cancer. Over the past three decades, new light sources and photosensitizers (PS) have been developed to be applied in PDT. Nevertheless, there is a lack of knowledge to explain the main biochemical routes needed to trigger regulated cell death mechanisms, affecting, considerably, the scope of the PDT. Although autophagy modulation is being raised as an interesting strategy to be used in cancer therapy, the main aspects referring to the autophagy role over cell succumbing PDT-photoinduced damage remain elusive. Several reports emphasize cytoprotective autophagy, as an ultimate attempt of cells to cope with the photo-induced stress and to survive. Moreover, other underlying molecular mechanisms that evoke PDT-resistance of tumor cells were considered. We reviewed the paradigm about the PDT-regulated cell death mechanisms that involve autophagic impairment or boosted activation. To comprise the autophagy-targeted PDT-protocols to treat cancer, it was underlined those that alleviate or intensify PDT-resistance of tumor cells. Thereby, this review provides insights into the mechanisms by which PDT can be used to modulate autophagy and emphasizes how this field represents a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
Bibliometric Analysis of the Inflammasome and Pyroptosis in Brain
Authors: Chen Yuhua , Li Yan , Guo Limin , Hong Jun , Zhao Wenjuan , Hu Ximin , Chang Cuicui , Liu Wei , Xiong Kun
Published: January 2021

Background: Considering the pivotal role of inflammasome/pyroptosis in biological function, we visually analyzed the research hotspots of inflammasome/pyroptosis related to the brain in this work through the method of bibliometrics from the Web of Science (WOS) Core database over the past two decades.

Methods: Documents were retrieved from WOS Core Collection on October 16, 2020. The search terms and strategies used for the WOS database are as follow: # 1, “pyroptosis”; # 2, “pyroptotic”; # 3, “inflammasome”; # 4, “pyroptosome”; # 5 “brain”; # 6, “# 1” OR “# 2” OR “# 3” OR “# 4”; # 7, “# 5” AND “# 6”. We selected articles and reviews published in English from 2000 to 2020. Visualization analysis and statistical analysis were performed by VOSviewer 1.6.15 and CiteSpace 5.7. R2.

Results: 1,222 documents were selected for analysis. In the approximately 20 years since the pyroptosis was first presented, the publications regarding the inflammasome and pyroptosis in brain were presented since 2005. The number of annual publications increased gradually over a decade, which are involved in this work, and will continue to increase in 2020. The most prolific country was China with 523 documents but the United States was with 16,328 citations. The most influential author was Juan Pablo de Rivero Vaccari with 27 documents who worked at the University of Miami. The bibliometric analysis showed that inflammasome/pyroptosis involved a variety of brain cell types (microglia, astrocyte, neuron, etc.), physiological processes, ER stress, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and disease (traumatic brain injuries, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease).

Conclusion: The research of inflammasome/pyroptosis in brain will continue to be the hotspot. We recommend investigating the mechanism of mitochondrial molecules involved in the complex crosstalk of pyroptosis and regulated cell deaths (RCDs) in brain glial cells, which will facilitate the development of effective therapeutic strategies targeting inflammasome/pyroptosis and large-scale clinical trials. Thus, this study presents the trend and characteristic of inflammasome/pyroptosis in brain, which provided a helpful bibliometric analysis for researchers to further studies.
Poplar Autophagy Receptor NBR1 Enhances Salt Stress Tolerance by Regulating Selective Autophagy and Antioxidant System
Authors: Su Wanlong , Bao Yu , Lu Yingying , He Fang , Wang Shu , Wang Dongli , Yu Xiaoqian , Yin Weilun , Xia Xinli , Liu Chao
Published: January 2021

Salt stress is an adverse environmental factor for plant growth and development. Under salt stress, plants can activate the selective autophagy pathway to alleviate stress. However, the regulatory mechanism of selective autophagy in response to salt stress remains largely unclear. Here, we report that the selective autophagy receptor PagNBR1 (neighbor of BRCA1) is induced by salt stress in Populus. Overexpression of PagNBR1 in poplar enhanced salt stress tolerance. Compared with wild type (WT) plants, the transgenic lines exhibited higher antioxidant enzyme activity, less reactive oxygen species (ROS), and higher net photosynthesis rates under salt stress. Furthermore, co-localization and yeast two-hybrid analysis revealed that PagNBR1 was localized in the autophagosome and could interact with ATG8 (autophagy-related gene). PagNBR1 transgenic poplars formed more autophagosomes and exhibited higher expression of ATG8, resulting in less accumulation of insoluble protein and insoluble ubiquitinated protein compared to WT under salt stress. The accumulation of insoluble protein and insoluble ubiquitinated protein was similar under the treatment of ConA in WT and transgenic lines. In summary, our results imply that PagNBR1 is an important selective autophagy receptor in poplar and confers salt tolerance by accelerating antioxidant system activity and autophagy activity. Moreover, the NBR1 gene is an important potential molecular target for improving stress resistance in trees.
Flower Production, Headspace Volatiles, Pollen Nutrients, and Florivory in Tanacetum vulgare Chemotypes
Authors: Eilers Elisabeth J. , Kleine Sandra , Eckert Silvia , Waldherr Simon , Müller Caroline
Published: January 2021

Floral volatiles and reward traits are major drivers for the behavior of mutualistic as well as antagonistic flower visitors, i.e., pollinators and florivores. These floral traits differ tremendously between species, but intraspecific differences and their consequences on organism interactions remain largely unknown. Floral volatile compounds, such as terpenoids, function as cues to advertise rewards to pollinators, but should at the same time also repel florivores. The reward composition, e.g., protein and lipid contents in pollen, differs between individuals of distinct plant families. Whether the nutritional value of rewards within the same plant species is linked to their chemotypes, which differ in their pattern of specialized metabolites, has yet not been investigated. In the present study, we compared Tanacetum vulgare plants of five terpenoid chemotypes with regard to flower production, floral headspace volatiles, pollen macronutrient and terpenoid content, and floral attractiveness to florivorous beetles. Our analyses revealed remarkable differences between the chemotypes in the amount and diameter of flower heads, duration of bloom period, and pollen nutritional quality. The floral headspace composition of pollen-producing mature flowers, but not of premature flowers, was correlated to that of pollen and leaves in the same plant individual. For two chemotypes, florivorous beetles discriminated between the scent of mature and premature flower heads and preferred the latter. In semi-field experiments, the abundance of florivorous beetles and flower tissue miners differed between T. vulgare chemotypes. Moreover, the scent environment affected the choice and beetles were more abundant in homogenous plots composed of one single chemotype than in plots with different neighboring chemotypes. In conclusion, flower production, floral metabolic composition and pollen quality varied to a remarkable extend within the species T. vulgare, and the attractiveness of floral scent differed also intra-individually with floral ontogeny. We found evidence for a trade-off between pollen lipid content and pollen amount on a per-plant-level. Our study highlights that chemotypes which are more susceptible to florivory are less attacked when they grow in the neighborhood of other chemotypes and thus gain a benefit from high overall chemodiversity.
Raman-Based Diagnostics of Biotic and Abiotic Stresses in Plants. A Review
Authors: Payne William Z. , Kurouski Dmitry
Published: January 2021

Digital farming is a novel agricultural philosophy that aims to maximize a crop yield with the minimal environmental impact. Digital farming requires the development of technologies that can work directly in the field providing information about a plant health. Raman spectroscopy (RS) is an emerging analytical technique that can be used for non-invasive, non-destructive, and confirmatory diagnostics of diseases, as well as the nutrient deficiencies in plants. RS is also capable of probing nutritional content of grains, as well as highly accurate identification plant species and their varieties. This allows for Raman-based phenotyping and digital selection of plants. These pieces of evidence suggest that RS can be used for chemical-free surveillance of plant health directly in the field. High selectivity and specificity of this technique show that RS may transform the agriculture in the US. This review critically discusses the most recent research articles that demonstrate the use of RS in diagnostics of abiotic and abiotic stresses in plants, as well as the identification of plant species and their nutritional analysis.
News and Commercials: Binding Deficits for Complex Information in Schizophrenia
Authors: Sejunaite Karolina , Lanza Claudia , Gaucher Frederic , Klug Roland , Riepe Matthias W.
Published: January 2021

Memory for complex content is severely impaired in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, which might make processing of daily information such as news and commercials particularly challenging. The goal of the present study was to assess the impairment of everyday memory in patients with schizophrenia. Healthy controls (HC) and patients with schizophrenia (SZ) were asked to watch a selection of six news segments and six commercials and complete a recognition task on the content of these video clips. All participants completed a neuropsychological test battery comprising measures of attention, working and episodic memory, and executive function. The total number of correctly recognized items was significantly lower in the SZ group. In contrast, the number of false recognitions was alike in both news and commercials paradigm. We conclude that memory in patients with schizophrenia is more prone to omissions than distortions for complex everyday stimuli. The results offer further support for impaired binding in SZ patients. Memory in SZ suffices to reject false multi-feature items on grounds of identifying at least one feature as incorrect but does not suffice to recall all features of a complex item and affirm it as correct.
A Model for World-Class 10,000 m Running Performances: Strategy and Optimization
Authors: Mercier Quentin , Aftalion Amandine , Hanley Brian
Published: January 2021

The distribution of energetic resources in world-class distance running is a key aspect of performance, with athletes relying on aerobic and anaerobic metabolism to greater extents during different parts of the race. The purpose of this study is to model 10,000 m championship performances to enable a deeper understanding of the factors affecting running speed and, given that more than half the race is run on curves, to establish the effect of the bends on performance. Because a limitation of time split data is that they are typically averaged over 100-m or 1,000-m segments, we simulate two 10,000 m runners' performances and thus get access to their instantaneous speed, propulsive force and anaerobic energy. The numerical simulations provide information on the factors that affect performance, and we precisely see the effect of parameters that influence race strategy, fatigue, and the ability to speed up and deal with bends. In particular, a lower anaerobic capacity leads to an inability to accelerate at the end of the race, and which can accrue because of a reliance on anaerobic energy to maintain pace in an athlete of inferior running economy. We also see that a runner with a worse running economy is less able to speed up on the straights and that, in general, the bends are run slower than the straights, most likely because bend running at the same pace would increase energy expenditure. Notwithstanding a recommendation for adopting the accepted practices of improving aerobic and anaerobic metabolism through appropriate training methods, coaches are advised to note that athletes who avoid mid-race surges can improve their endspurt, which are the differentiating element in closely contested championship races.
Influence of Organic and Conventional Farming on Grain Yield and Protein Composition of Chickpea Genotypes
Authors: De Santis Michele Andrea , Rinaldi Michele , Menga Valeria , Codianni Pasquale , Giuzio Luigia , Fares Clara , Flagella Zina
Published: January 2021

Chickpea is a key crop in sustainable cropping systems and for its nutritional value. Studies on agronomic and genetic influences on chickpea protein composition are missing. In order to obtain a deep insight into the genetic response of chickpeas to management in relation to agronomic and quality traits, a two-year field trial was carried out with eight chickpea genotypes under an organic and conventional cropping system. Protein composition was assessed by SDS-PAGE in relation to the main fractions (vicilin, convicilin, legumin, lectin, 2s-albumin). Crop response was highly influenced by year and presumably also by management, with a −50% decrease in grain yield under organic farming, mainly due to a reduction in seed number per m2. No effect of crop management was observed on protein content, despite significant differences in terms of protein composition. The ratio between the major globulins, 7s vicilin and 11s legumin, showed a negative relationship with grain yield and was found to be higher under organic farming. Among genotypes, black-seed Nero Senise was characterized by the highest productivity and water-holding capacity, associated with low lectin content. These findings highlight the importance of the choice of chickpea genotypes for cultivation under organic farming in relation to both agronomic performance and technological and health quality.
Understanding Smallholder Farmers’ Intention to Adopt Agricultural Apps: The Role of Mastery Approach and Innovation Hubs in Mexico
Authors: Molina-Maturano Janet , Verhulst Nele , Tur-Cardona Juan , Güereña David T. , Gardeazábal-Monsalve Andrea , Govaerts Bram , Speelman Stijn
Published: January 2021

While several studies have focused on the actual adoption of agricultural apps and the relevance of the apps’ content, very few studies have focused on drivers of the farmer’s intention and initial decision to adopt. Based on a survey of 394 smallholder farmers in 2019, this study investigated willingness to adopt an agricultural advice app in Guanajuato, Mexico. A structural equation modeling approach, based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT), was applied. To understand the farmers’ adoption decisions, extended constructs were studied (e.g., mastery-approach goals) along with the farmers’ age and participation in an innovation hub. Results showed that the intention to adopt the app is predicted by how farmers appraise the technical infrastructure and acquire new knowledge by using an app. The multi-group analysis revealed that performance expectancy is a relevant predictor of the intention to adopt, whereas the mastery-approach goal is relevant only for younger farmers and farmers not connected to the innovation hub. This study provides valuable insights about the innovation hubs’ role in the intention to adopt apps, offering precision agriculture advice in developing countries. The findings are useful for practitioners and app developers designing digital-decision support tools.
Analytical Profile and Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of the Enriched Polyphenol Fractions Isolated from Bergamot Fruit and Leave
Authors: Baron Giovanna , Altomare Alessandra , Mol Marco , Garcia Jessica Leite , Correa Camila , Raucci Angela , Mancinelli Luigi , Mazzotta Sarah , Fumagalli Laura , Trunfio Giuseppe , Tucci Luigi , Lombardo Elena , Malara Domenico , Janda Elzbieta , Mollace Vincenzo , Carini Marina , Bombardelli Ezio , Aldini Giancarlo
Published: January 2021

The aim of the study is to compare the qualitative and semi-quantitative profile of the polyphenol fraction purified from the leaf (BLPF) and fruit (BFPF) of bergamot (Citrus bergamia), and to evaluate their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The analytical qualitative profile was carried out by LC-ESI/MS using three different approaches: targeted (searching analytes already reported in bergamot extract), semi-targeted (a selective search of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarate [HMG] derivatives involved in the cholesterol reducing activity of BPF) and untargeted. A total number of 108 compounds were identified by using the three approaches, 100 of which are present in both the extracts thus demonstrating a good qualitative overlapping of polyphenols between the two extracts. The antioxidant activity was higher for BLPF in respect to BFPF but when normalized in respect to the polyphenol content they were almost overlapping. Both the extracts were found to dose dependently inhibit cell inflammation stimulated with IL-1α. In conclusion, the comparison of the qualitative and quantitative profile of polyphenols as well as of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of bergamot leaf and fruit well indicates that leaf is a valid source of bergamot polyphenol extraction and an even richer source of polyphenol in respect to the fruit.
Isoprostanes in Veterinary Medicine: Beyond a Biomarker
Authors: Putman Ashley K. , Contreras G. Andres , Sordillo Lorraine M.
Published: January 2021

Oxidative stress has been associated with many pathologies, in both human and animal medicine. Damage to tissue components such as lipids is a defining feature of oxidative stress and can lead to the generation of many oxidized products, including isoprostanes (IsoP). First recognized in the early 1990s, IsoP are formed in numerous biological fluids and tissues, chemically stable, and easily measured by noninvasive means. Additionally, IsoP are highly specific indicators of lipid peroxidation and thereby are regarded as excellent biomarkers of oxidative stress. Although there have been many advancements in the detection and use of IsoP as a biomarker, there is still a paucity of knowledge regarding the biological activity of these molecules and their potential roles in pathology of oxidative stress. Furthermore, the use of IsoP has been limited in veterinary species thus far and represents an avenue of opportunity for clinical applications in veterinary practice. Examples of clinical applications of IsoP in veterinary medicine include use as a novel biomarker to guide treatment recommendations or as a target to mitigate inflammatory processes. This review will discuss the history, biosynthesis, measurement, use as a biomarker, and biological action of IsoP, particularly in the context of veterinary medicine.
Synthesis and Characterization of Unsaturated Succinic Acid Biobased Polyester Resins
Authors: Papadopoulos Lazaros , Malletzidou Lamprini , Patsiaoura Dimitra , Magaziotis Andreas , Psochia Eleni , Terzopoulou Zoi , Chrissafis Konstantinos , Markessini Charles , Papadopoulou Electra , Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: January 2021

Polymers from renewable feedstocks are receiving increasing attention as the awareness about environmental issues derived from petroleum exploitation and waste accumulation is growing. With unsaturated polyester resins being one of the most used classes of polymers worldwide, the utilization of biobased monomers for manufacturing is more relevant than ever. In the present work, succinic acid, one of the most promising biobased building blocks, was incorporated in the structure of the resins in question to increase their biobased content. By reacting with ethylene glycol (EG) or poly(ethylene glycol) and maleic anhydride (MA) at several molar rations, unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) were prepared. Their synthesis was evaluated by a variety of spectroscopical techniques, and their rheological properties made use of the reactive diluent mandatory for facilitating processing. Thus, in a second stage acrylic acid (AA) was used as cross-linking agent in the present of initiators and accelerators producing thermosetting resins. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was employed to screen the cross-linking procedure, whereas with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) it was proven that thermosetting resins were prepared. The thermal stability of the cured materials was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
In Vitro Estimation of Relative Compliance during High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation
Authors: Matejka Jan , Rozanek Martin , Rafl Jakub , Kudrna Petr , Roubik Karel
Published: January 2021

High-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV), which uses a small tidal volume and a high respiratory rate, is considered a type of protective lung ventilation that can be beneficial for certain patients. A disadvantage of HFOV is its limited monitoring of lung mechanics, which complicates its settings and optimal adjustment. Recent studies have shown that respiratory system reactance (Xrs) could be a promising parameter in the evaluation of respiratory system mechanics in HFOV. The aim of this study was to verify in vitro that a change in respiratory system mechanics during HFOV can be monitored by evaluating Xrs. We built an experimental system consisting of a 3100B high-frequency oscillatory ventilator, a physical model of the respiratory system with constant compliance, and a system for pressure and flow measurements. During the experiment, models of different constant compliance were connected to HFOV, and Xrs was derived from the impedance of the physical model that was calculated from the spectral density of airway opening pressure and spectral cross-power density of gas flow and airway opening pressure. The calculated Xrs changed with the change of compliance of the physical model of the respiratory system. This method enabled monitoring of the trend in the respiratory system compliance during HFOV, and has the potential to optimize the mean pressure setting in HFOV in clinical practice.
The Use of the Mixed Bacteria Limosilactobacillus fermentum and Staphylococcus carnosus in the Meat Curing Process with a Reduced Amount of Sodium Nitrite
Authors: Szymański Piotr , Łaszkiewicz Beata , Kern-Jędrychowska Aneta , Siekierko Urszula , Kołożyn-Krajewska Danuta
Published: January 2021

The aim of the research was to estimate the possibility of using mixed bacteria cultures consisting of Lactobacillus fermentum S8 and Staphylococcus carnosus ATCC 51365 in the meat curing process with a reduced amount of sodium nitrite and to study the effect of bacteria on residual nitrites and nitrates, nitrosyl pigments content, colour, pH, redox potential, microbiologic, and the sensory quality of a cooked meat product. The study was performed on heat treated three-model meat treatments in cans: (C) a control treatment with NaNO2 at 100 mg/kg, (M) a treatment with NaNO2 at 50 mg/kg and (SL) a treatment with NaNO2 at 50 mg/kg and L. fermentum S8 at about 107 cfu/g and S. carnosus ATCC 51365 at about of 107 cfu/g. The research was performed after production and after cold storage. It was shown that using a mixed bacteria culture for meat curing had an influence (p < 0.05) on reducing nitrite and nitrate levels and increasing the amount of nitrosyl pigments in the SL treatment compared to the M treatment. Applying mixed bacteria in curing meat with NaNO2 at 50 mg/kg allowed for obtaining a higher redness in the cooked meat product after production, storage and exposure to light than in the product cured with NaNO2 at 100 mg/kg, with similar sensory and microbiological quality in both products.