bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osmopriming, antioxidative action, and thermal stress in sunflower seeds with different vigor levels
Authors:   Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Barros Tiago Teixeira Viana , Pinheiro Daniel Teixeira ,   Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Gama Guilherme Fontes Valory ,   Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Dias Denise Cunha Fernandes dos Santos ,   Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Silva Laércio Junio da ,   Universidade Federal de Viçosa
Published: April 2021

The osmopriming technique can reduce the period between sowing and the emergence of seedlings in the field, as well as favor seed performance under stress conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of osmopriming on the physiological performance and antioxidative enzymatic activity of sunflower seeds with different vigor levels and exposed to thermal stress. Three sunflower seed lots of the cultivar Hélio 250 were used. Initially, the seeds were evaluated by germination and vigor tests to characterize the lots. Subsequently, they were primed in a polyethylene glycol 6000 solution at -2.0 MPa and 15 °C for 8 h. Then, the primed and unprimed seeds were tested for physiological quality (germination, first germination count, percentage and emergence speed index of seedlings, and seedling dry matter) and determination of the activity of the enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and peroxidase (POX) under three temperatures: 15 °C (sub-optimal), 25 °C (optimal), and 35 °C (supra-optimal). The physiological tests allowed classifying lots 1, 2, and 3 into three different vigor levels, i.e., high, medium, and low, respectively. Osmopriming favored the performance of sunflower seeds in terms of germination and vigor at all the analyzed temperatures. This effect was more pronounced in lots of lower physiological quality at sub-optimal and supra-optimal temperatures. Sub-and supra-optimal temperatures led to a reduction in the physiological performance of seeds, mainly in less vigorous lots. In general, osmopriming favored an increase in the activity of the enzymes SOD, CAT, POX, and APX, mainly in low vigor seeds exposed to sub and supra-optimal temperatures. Osmopriming of sunflower seeds in PEG 6000 at -2.0 MPa for 8 hours is efficient to improve the performance of less vigorous lots under stress due to the sub- and supra-optimal temperatures, favoring an increase in the activity of enzymes of the antioxidative system.
Physiological quality of parsley seeds in function of size
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Barros Renato Téo de , Martins Cibele Chalita ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Jeromini Tatiane Sanches ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Silva Givanildo Zildo da ,   Universidade Federal de Goiás, Cecílio Filho Arthur Bernardes ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias
Published: April 2021

Parsley seeds are commercialized without classification by size during processing, unlike other crops. This classification procedure allows the standardization of seed size for high precision in sowing, disposal of unwanted material, and selection of high quality seeds. The aim of this study was to verify the effect of seed size on germination, vigor, and yield performance of two parsley cultivars. Seeds from eight lots of parsley of ‘Portuguesa’ and ‘Chacareira’ cultivar were separated into three size classes, represented by the seeds retained in the sieves of 0.84, 1.00 and 1.41mm mesh opening. After classification, seeds were evaluated in the laboratory for water content, germination percentage, first count, and thousand seed weight. In the field, the fresh and dry weight of aerial part and the final number of plants (stand) were evaluated after 78 days of sowing. The experimental design was the completely randomized design in an 8 x 3 factorial scheme (eight lots and three sieve opening) with four replicates, for both cultivars. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance and means were compared using Tukey test at 5% probability level. It was concluded that the parsley seeds separated by the 1.41 mm sieves showed higher vigor, and consequently, greater success in stand establishment at the field than those separated by other sieve size. The use of sieves in the classification of parsley seeds helps in obtaining lots with superior physiological quality.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Business Research, Vol. 14, No. 5
Authors: Duran Kevin
Published: April 2021

Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Business Research, Vol. 14, No. 5, 2021
The Role of RAMP Initiative (Reading and Mathematics Project) in Raising the Level of Students in the Basic stage in Reading and Numeracy Skills
Authors: Friehat Rania H. , Al-Khresha Anoud
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to identify the RAMP initiative’s role (read comprehensively, answer with understanding) in raising the level of literacy skills and numeracy from the point of view of teachers. It also aimed to identify its effectiveness in improving the reading and writing level of the basic minimum stage, as an initiative that reduces the delay in reading and helps in the development of skills to help students solve mathematical problems with understanding and accommodating. Closed questionnaires were distributed to the Central Badia region; the questionnaire consisted of (35) paragraphs divided into three areas of reading, writing, and arithmetic, where 88 teachers answered the questionnaire. Statistical analysis was adopted (Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) was adopted to show the study results. The results showed a role for the RAMP initiative in raising the level of reading and numeracy skill to a reasonable degree, where the skill of reading got a good degree, was the highest skill of voice awareness to an extraordinary degree and other standards are good. Writing skill got a good degree; it was the highest, the skill of writing words and the least skill of creative writing, and also obtained the skill of calculating a good degree above (counting units) and the lowest domain (participation and composition of groups). The results showed no statistically significant differences due to variable years of experience, while the results showed statistically significant differences in favor of a bachelor’s degree.
Practicability of Application of Re-Engineering the Administrative Processes at Colleges of Education in Universities in Arab-Majority Countries
Authors: El-Zubair Bannaga Taha , Mohammed El-Rusheed Habob , Dafalla Adil Mohammed , Alqarni Saad Saleh M.
Published: April 2021

The study aims to highlight the importance of considering the implementation of process of re-engineering Reengineering Administrational Processes (RAP) in the Arab countries universities, particularly, colleges of education to attain good educational outputs. It seeks to highlight the requirements for this implementation and explore the problems associated to the implementation it and distinguish themselves from other organizations is. The Process of Re-Engineering (RAP) is defined as a rapid and drastic re-designing of managerial and strategic process of values at colleges of education in the Arab States Universities in order to attain good educational outputs. The managerial process includes planning, organization, control, follow-up, evaluation and decision taking. The significance of the study is that it can considerably help improve administrative processes applied in the domain of strategic planning at colleges of education in Arab States. The main objective of the study was to outline the main demands of colleges of education for using (RAP) and the obstacles that face its application. For that purpose, the descriptive/ analytic method was used. The study relied heavily on the analysis of the available literature, writings, and publications on the topic, for predicting the practicability of applying RAPRAP. The study came up with the following main results: RAP application, if used properly, can raise the level of job satisfaction among staff members of Arab States colleges of education in particular and the Arab States Universities in general. RAP application can affect total amendments on colleges of education administrative systems for better rendered services. The most demanding requirements of RAP are those that directly relate to the organization structure of the particular corporation, and all its activities for more flexibility, speed and accuracy of performance. The basic human requirements for RAP application include effective training for trainers for the sake of radical change in concepts and ideas. The main obstacles that face RAP application include the poor outcome at colleges of education regarding teaching/learning process, in addition to poor strategic information management on the part of colleges of education and universities. RAP is not fully made use of, despite large sums of money having been spent on for that exact purpose.
Effect of Friction Pressure on Microstructure and Properties of Friction Welded Joints of Pure Aluminum/304 Stainless Steel
Authors: ZHAO Lizhe , GONG Wenbiao , ZHU Rui , GONG Mingyue , CUI Heng
Published: April 2021

Continuous drive friction welding was used to realize the high quality connection between pure aluminum and 304 stainless steel. The composition of interface micro-zone and mechanical properties of joint were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile test and hardness test. The formation mechanism of intermetallic compound (IMC) during friction welding was discussed. The results show that under the experimental parameters, the joint surface is uneven and two intermetallic compounds, Fe2Al5 and FeAl3, are formed. With the increase of friction pressure, the mechanical bonding degree of the joint decreases, the metallurgical bonding degree increases, the element diffusion distance increases from 1.4 to 1.9 um, the tensile strength of the joint can reach or even higher than that of the base metal on the aluminum side, and the maximum hardness increased from 414 HV to 447 HV.
Epstein-Barr Virus-Associated Gastric Cancer: Old Entity with New Relevance
Authors: Manuel Lopes de Sousa Hugo , Patrícia Costa Ribeiro Joana , Basílio Timóteo Mafalda
Published: April 2021

Gastric cancer (GC) represents a major public health issue worldwide, being the fifth most common cancer and one of the leading causes of death by cancer. In 2014, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) established that tumors positive for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are considered a specific subtype of GC (EBVaGC). Several meta-analyses have shown that EBVaGC represents almost 10% of all gastric cancer worldwide, with small differences in the geographic distribution. This tumor subtype has a high potential of being clinically relevant and studies have shown that it has specific features, a better prognosis, and increased overall survival. In this review, we summarize some of the most frequent aspects of EBVaGC, including the specific features of this GC subtype, data regarding the potential steps of EBVaGC carcinogenesis, and perspectives on treatment opportunities.
Vector-Borne Diseases and Climate Change in the Environmental Context in Haiti
Authors: Balthazard-Accou Ketty , François Millien Max , Michel Daphnée , Jean Gaston , Telcy David , Emmanuel Evens
Published: April 2021

Climate change is one of the main challenges facing many countries, particularly developing countries, because of its negative impact on their various ecosystems and their socio-economic development, which very often leads them down a slow descent into poverty. This is because climate change can manifest itself in different forms such as climate variability and extreme events (droughts, epidemics, floods, storms and hurricanes), which can affect biodiversity and cause many human and animal diseases and deaths. In fact, the evolution of ecosystems is dependent on climate and environmental change and appears to be closely associated with many emerging or re-emerging diseases. In general, the ecosystems considered to be most exposed to climate change are those located in and around the intertropical convergence zone in particular. They are believed to be closely linked to the occurrence of several emerging diseases, particularly vector-borne diseases. For years, the Republic of Haiti has been experiencing the adverse effects of these global changes with a marked disruption of its rainfall pattern and prolonged periods of drought as well as a pronounced increase in temperatures even in high altitude areas. Although there is evidence that climate change is increasing the frequency of vector-borne diseases and may contribute to increasing the virulence of their pathogens, there are very few studies conducted in Haiti on the relationship between climate change and vector-borne diseases. The purpose of this chapter is to define the interrelationships between climate change and vector-borne diseases in Haiti by identifying avenues of research to better understand the effects of climate change on public health and to make appropriate recommendations to decision-makers to ensure proper management.
Utility of Robotic Assisted and Single Site Laparoscopy to Gynecologic Oncology
Authors: J. Corcoran Conor , H. Bush II Stephen
Published: April 2021

Single site laparoscopy, while in its infancy, is being explored for potential areas of application within the realm of gynecology. Gynecologic Oncology is a field with high potential benefit from the single site technique. It boasts many practical and theoretical surgical improvements, such as facilitated specimen removal, which are elaborated further in this chapter. While much more research is needed, there are exciting and uniquely useful utilities of Laparo-endoscopic Single-site Surgery (LESS) in gynecology oncology.
Hydrogenation and Hydrogenolysis with Ruthenium Catalysts and Application to Biomass Conversion
Authors: Ernst Müller Thomas
Published: April 2021

With the rising emphasis on efficient and highly selective chemical transformations, the field of ruthenium-catalysed hydrogenation and hydrogenolysis reactions has grown tremendously over recent years. The advances are triggered by the detailed understanding of the catalytic pathways that have enabled researchers to improve known transformations and realise new transformations in biomass conversion. Starting with the properties of ruthenium, this chapter introduces the concept of the catalytic function as a basis for rational design of ruthenium catalysts. Emphasis is placed on discussing the principles of dissociative adsorption of hydrogen. The principles are then applied to the conversion of typical biomolecules such as cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Characteristic features make ruthenium catalysis one of the most outstanding tools for implementing sustainable chemical transformations.
La ‘biblioteca’ de las cosas
Authors: Sanz Martos Sandra
Published: April 2021

Está demostrado que las crisis atraen lo colaborativo. Lo hemos visto en las redes sociales durante toda la pandemia: gritando #yomequedoencasa, compartiendo recetas a través del #yomequedoencasacocinando y entreteniendo a grandes y pequeños con los clubes de lectura de #yomequedoencasaleyendo. También hemos salido a aplaudir en compañía de nuestros desconocidos vecinos cada tarde emocionados, sintiendo que formamos parte de una gran comunidad. Esto ha propiciado una cultura de compartir que nos predispone a buscar fórmulas innovadoras que nos ayuden a remontar el parón en la actividad económica y a recuperar la confianza en el futuro.
El modo de efectuar la detención del cuidador principal como (eventual) supuesto de victimización de los menores a su cargo
Authors: Navarro Carmen
Published: April 2021

La detención policial suele ser el inicio de un período de conmoción emocional para las familias y, en especial, para los niños cuando el detenido es su principal cuidador. Tras un repaso de la normativa relativa a la detención y el análisis de la jurisprudencia del Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos acerca de la necesidad de tener en cuenta el interés superior del menor en la privación de libertad de su progenitor, se aportan algunos datos sobre las detenciones en España a fin de evidenciar que, precisamente, las personas que acumulan más detenciones coinciden con aquellas que pueden tener a su cargo hijos menores de edad, a tenor de su pertenencia a determinados grupos de edades en que, estadísticamente, hay más probabilidades de ser padre. Se analizan, asimismo, diversas prácticas a llevar a cabo en aquellos supuestos en que hay que proceder a la detención de una persona con menores a cargo y que pueden ser menos perjudiciales y traumáticas para éstos. Por último, en aras a minimizar los adversos efectos que la detención puede ocasionar en los menores y atendiendo al interés superior de éstos, el objetivo final de este breve artículo será el de proponer un protocolo de actuación policial con medidas más acordes con los derechos del niño.
High infectiousness immediately before COVID-19 symptom onset highlights the importance of continued contact tracing
Authors: Hart William S , Maini Philip K , Thompson Robin N
Published: April 2021

Background:

Understanding changes in infectiousness during SARS-COV-2 infections is critical to assess the effectiveness of public health measures such as contact tracing.

Methods:

Here, we develop a novel mechanistic approach to infer the infectiousness profile of SARS-COV-2-infected individuals using data from known infector–infectee pairs. We compare estimates of key epidemiological quantities generated using our mechanistic method with analogous estimates generated using previous approaches.

Results:

The mechanistic method provides an improved fit to data from SARS-CoV-2 infector–infectee pairs compared to commonly used approaches. Our best-fitting model indicates a high proportion of presymptomatic transmissions, with many transmissions occurring shortly before the infector develops symptoms.

Conclusions:

High infectiousness immediately prior to symptom onset highlights the importance of continued contact tracing until effective vaccines have been distributed widely, even if contacts from a short time window before symptom onset alone are traced.

Funding:

Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Selection of Rifle Caliber in Rearming Process of the Serbian Army
Authors: Jokić Željko , Delibašić Boris , Ranđelović Aca
Published: April 2021

Research Question: This paper recommends the method for selecting the optimal ammunition caliber for the automatic rifle that will be used to equip Serbian Army units. Motivation/idea: The selection of adequate caliber does not only represent a challenge for the decision-makers in the military, but also provides information to the industry to adjust to given requests. In the current conditions, the purpose-built industry of the Republic of Serbia is faced with two key tasks that are completely correlated: meeting the needs of the Serbian Army for quality ammunition and being competitive on the market. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to develop a qualitative model based on the DEX method and DEXi software applied in the selection of caliber ammunition for automatic rifles for the needs of members of the Serbian Army. This paper connects for the first time the qualitative DEX method with a product of this industry. Data / Tools: In order to meet the requirements of the multi-criteria decision-making, we developed the DEX model to be used to solve the problem of making decisions about the selection of optimal caliber for rearming the Serbian Army, as well as its cost-effectiveness. The alternatives are calibers for automatic rifles 7.62 mm and 5.56 mm that are currently in use in the Serbian Army, as well as the new 6.5 mm caliber which has been announced by the expert authorities. We defined the selection of criteria functions from technical and logistic standpoints. Using the DEX method and DEXi software enables us to obtain independent recommendations by applying different criteria. Findings: Results of this research show that the caliber is a very important component when it comes to army’s armament. At the same time, this question poses a challenge for the sustainable development of the weapons industry. As the optimal caliber, among the offered, after processing the input data in the DEXi software, the authors propose a caliber of 5.56 mm. This caliber dominates in most criteria and as such, it represents the best choice. Contribution: This paper contributes to the creation of sustainable development policies on the national and regional levels and it helps the key decision-makers in the military make decisions. Results of such and similar research, and the fact that the international market has a growing need for ammunition of this caliber should be guidelines for the domestic weapons industry for future development and investment.
Recruitment of toxin-like proteins with ancestral venom function supports endoparasitic lifestyles of Myxozoa
Authors: Hartigan Ashlie , Jaimes-Becerra Adrian , Okamura Beth , Doonan Liam B. , Ward Malcolm , Marques Antonio C. , Long Paul F.
Published: April 2021

Cnidarians are the oldest lineage of venomous animals and use nematocysts to discharge toxins. Whether venom toxins have been recruited to support parasitic lifestyles in the Endocnidozoa (Myxozoa + Polypodium) is, however, unknown. To examine this issue we variously employed transcriptomic, proteomic, associated molecular phylogenies, and localisation studies on representative primitive and derived myxozoans (Malacosporea and Myxosporea, respectively), Polypodium hydriforme, and the free-living staurozoan Calvadosia cruxmelitensis. Our transcriptomics and proteomics analyses provide evidence for expression and translation of venom toxin homologs in myxozoans. Phylogenetic placement of Kunitz type serine protease inhibitors and phospholipase A2 enzymes reveals modification of toxins inherited from ancestral free-living cnidarian toxins, and that venom diversity is reduced in myxozoans concordant with their reduced genome sizes. Various phylogenetic analyses of the Kunitz-type toxin family in Endocnidozoa suggested lineage-specific gene duplications, which offers a possible mechanism for enhancing toxin diversification. Toxin localisation in the malacosporean Buddenbrockia plumatellae substantiates toxin translation and thus illustrates a repurposing of toxin function for endoparasite development and interactions with hosts, rather than for prey capture or defence. Whether myxozoan venom candidates are expressed in transmission stages (e.g. in nematocysts or secretory vesicles) requires further investigation.
Serviceability analysis and increased axle load performance of heritage arch gallery railway bridge
Authors:   National Institute of Technology Puducherry (India), Sivasubramanian Madappa VR , Shimpi Vinay ,   Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Puducherry (India), Singh S.B. ,   Department of Civil Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani (India)
Published: April 2021

This investigation deals with the serviceability analysis and increased axle load performance of Bridge No. 541 of UNESCO recognised Kalka Shimla Mountain Railways, which is a multi-storey arch gallery stone masonry bridge situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. For this purpose, a finite element (FE) model was developed based on the drawings and reports available in Shimla Division, Northern Railways, India. Further, the results obtained from ambient vibration test (AVT) and operational modal analysis (OMA) is utilized to model update the initial FE model by modifying the mechanical properties of stone masonry. The serviceability against present-day axle loading (H Class Loading, Indian Railways) and present speed of the train is assessed. At last, a parametric study is conducted to understand the feasibility to attain higher speeds (up to 40 kmph) of the present axle load and higher axle load with different speeds of the train over the bridge to check the serviceability conditions advised in the Indian Railways code and also International codes. Finally, the study concluded that Bridge No. 541 of Kalka Shimla Mountain Railways can sustain speeds up to 40 kmph for current axle loading satisfying serviceability conditions.
Sex differences between pre and post effort ultra marathon athletes
Authors: Picco José , Wolff Sebastián , González Dávila Emanuel , Wolff David
Published: April 2021

Background: The presence of women in ultramarathon competitions has become increasingly frequent. Physiological adaptations and response to maximum exercise are influenced differently according to gender. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences observed in ultramarathon or ultratrail athletes (mountain races over 42 km), at rest (physiological adaptations) and post-endurance exercise [exercise-induced cardiac fatigue (EICF)], stratified by training parameters. Methods: Twenty-five athletes (6 women) who participated in the Mendoza crossing race (55 km in the mountains) were evaluated before and after the end of the race using Doppler echocardiography and myocardial deformation techniques (post-processing). Training and running parameters were documented with sports watches. Immediate post-endurance exercise blood withdrawal was performed to document variables associated with cardiac fatigue. Results: The race was completed by 24 athletes, 19 men (42±12 years) and 5 women (38±4 years). Women and men presented similar training loads and completed the race with no difference in time. Decreased left myocardial function parameters (EICF) were observed in 50% of men and 5% of women. Conclusions: Despite no differences in training characteristics were found, less baseline physiological adaptation and a lower incidence of EICF was observed in women.
The Effects of Small-scale Stone Quarrying on Poverty Reduction among Youths in Zamfara State, Nigeria
Authors: Targba Aondowase , Dajo Ugba
Published: April 2021

The paper examined the effects of small-scale stone quarrying on poverty reduction among youths in Zamfara State. The paper is based on the argument that small-scale stone quarrying has the potentials to reduce poverty in low income settings. Zamfara is one of the poorest states in Nigeria where youths are engaged in small-scale quarrying. The paper examined the extent to which small-scale quarrying has been able to reduced poverty among youths in the State. The sample size of the study comprised of 400 respondents. Structured interview was used as the primary instrument of data collection. Purposive sampling techniques was used to select quarry sites while simple random sampling technique was used to select respondents for the study. Data collected was presented in tables and percentages for better understanding. The outcome of the study revealed that youths between ages of 26-35 years were actively involved in small-scale stone quarrying in Zamfara State. The study found out that small-scale stone quarrying had a positive effect on poverty reduction among youths in Zamfara State. This is because after joining small-scale stone quarrying, majority of youths had improved access to food, healthcare facilities, housing, sleeping materials, clothing and ownership of means of transportation. The major factors limiting youth involvement in small-scale stone quarrying were lack of modern quarrying equipment, absence of personal protective gadgets and ignorance about government regulations in the mining industry. The study therefore recommends that government should assist quarry workers with modern quarry equipment, personal protective gadgets and sensitization on government regulations in the mining industry.
Analyzing a New Third Order Iterative Method for Solving Nonlinear Problems
Authors: Ndayawo M. S. , Sani B.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we propose and analyse a new iterative method for solving nonlinear equations. The method is constructed by applying Adomian method to Taylor’s series expansion. Using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), the method is being compared with other existing methods in terms of the number of iterations and solution to convergence between the individual methods used. Numerical examples are used in the comparison to justify the efficiency of the new iterative method.
Gamma Radiation as a Potential Phytosanitary Squash Treatment for the Control of Anastrepha grandis (Macquart) (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Baldo Fernando Berton , Villavicencio Anna Lucia Casañas Haasis , Schmidt Flávio Luis , Raga Adalton
Published: April 2021

Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are the primary pests of horticultural crops worldwide, causing both direct and indirect damage to the fruit production, including Anastrepha grandis (Macquart, 1846), which exclusively infests Cucurbitaceae fruit. Dose-response tests were used to examine the effects of gamma radiation exposure on 24 – 48 h old eggs and third instar larvae, both in vitro and in Atlas squashes (Cucurbita moschata). The following physicochemical properties of Atlas squashes exposed to gamma radiation were evaluated: titratable total acidity, sugar, pH, external colouration, and texture. It was found that under in vitro conditions, a 20.0 Gy dose of gamma radiation was able to prevent larval eclosion, but a 200 Gy dose was necessary to prevent emergence after the exposure of third instar larvae. In Atlas squashes, 200 and 250 Gy doses of gamma radiation were able to prevent the emergence of A. grandis adults from eggs and larvae, respectively. The radiation doses estimated by Probit 9 to prevent emergence from squashes infested with eggs and third instar larvae were 257.13 Gy and 270.25 Gy respectively. The use of gamma radiation did not significantly affect the physicochemical properties of Atlas squashes, which suggested that gamma radiation may represent a potentially useful technique for the quarantine control of A. grandis in cucurbits.
A Study of Microvascular Density in Carcinoma of Breast with CD34 Immunostaining
Authors: Debnath Bijoya , Lilly Mary
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Tumor agiogenesis is generally classified in to two types, namely, sprouting and intussusceptive angiogenesis. The formation of new blood vessels from the already existing is termed as sprouting angiogenesis.  Many growth factors including endothelial growth factor (VEGF) contribute the formation of new vessels at the tumor sites. On other hand, the tumor able to split the existing blood vessels, this type is termed as intussuscepted angiogenesis and discovered in human colon adenocarcinoma xenograft.  In intussuscepted angiogenesis, an existing blood vessel splits into two new blood vessels by formation of trans vascular pillars.

Objective: The present study aimed to analyse the nicrovascular density on breast cancer patients using CD 34 immunostaining method.

Results: This mis-regulation may lead to the development of cancers. Histological grading with Grade II were more with 19 (63.3%) cases followed by Grade I with 4 (13.3%) and Grade III with 3 (10%) cases. There was increase in mean vascular density in Grade II when compared with Grade I and Grade III. However no significant correlation was observed statistically with a P value of 0.176. Using different antibodies such as CD34, CD31, Factor VIII and CD105 to microvessels differentiation was highlighted.

Conclusion: The results showed that the anti-CD34 monoclonal antibody is more sensitive than the anti- CD31 antibody in calculation of MVD in breast cancer as mentioned in previous studies.
Study on the Prevalance, Identification and Antibiogram of Enterococci Isolated from the Heterogenous Clinical Samples in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Gulzar Binish , Saikumar Chitralekha
Published: April 2021

The rise in Pantone-Valentine leucocidin (PVL) and gAMMA-haemolysin (Hlg) producing Enterococcus spp., among the people is a serious concern on evolution of antibiotic resistance. Recent reports suggested that the synergistic association of PVL toxin and necrotic lesions that lead to infections in skin and mucosa.  To study the prevalence of Enterococcus isolated from the various clinical samples from both inpatient and out - patient department at a Tertiary care hospital. The resistance to Pantone-Valentine leucocidin (PVL) and gAMMA-haemolysin (Hlg) is further tested by using E-test strips for gentamicin test showed 26.8% of isolated populations had resistance to cell wall active agents. In our study all the intermediately sensitive to vancomycin isolates were found to be vancomycin sensitive by both the Epsilometer test and automated Vitek 2 system. The minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 0.5 - 4 ug/ml. Hence my study confirmed good activity of the vancomycin, linezolid and Teicoplanin against isolated Enterococci spp.
A New Conjugated Polymer that Enables the Integration of Photovoltaic and Light‐Emitting Functions in One Device
Authors: Xu Ye , Cui Yong , Yao Huifeng , Zhang Tao , Zhang Jianqi , Ma Lijiao , Wang Jingwen , Wei Zhixiang , Hou Jianhui
Published: April 2021

Exploring the intriguing bifunctional nature of organic semiconductors and investigating the feasibility of fabricating bifunctional devices are of great significance in realizing various applications with one device. Here, the design of a new wide‐bandgap polymer named PBQx‐TCl (optical bandgap of 2.05 eV) is reported, and its applications in photovoltaic and light‐emitting devices are studied. By fabricating devices with nonfullerene acceptors BTA3 and BTP‐eC9, it is shown that the devices exhibit a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.0% under air mass 1.5G illumination conditions and an outstanding PCE of 28.5% for a 1 cm2 device and 26.0% for a 10 cm2 device under illumination from a 1000 lux light‐emitting diode. In addition, the PBQx‐TCl:BTA3‐based device also demonstrates a moderate organic light‐emitting diode performance with an electroluminescence external quantum efficiency approaching 0.2% and a broad emission range of 630–1000 nm. These results suggest that the polymer PBQx‐TCl‐based devices exhibit outstanding photovoltaic performance and potential light‐emitting functions.
Student Perception and the Effectiveness of Kahoot!: A Scoping Review in Histology, Anatomy, and Medical Education
Authors: Donkin Rebecca , Rasmussen Rosemary
Published: April 2021

The impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic has presented challenges in medical education particularly, with development of online learning in a short time period. Notably there has been a significant increase in the use of digital technology applications to meet this challenge. For instance, in the first quarter of 2020 the game‐based software Kahoot! reported a threefold increase in players and a fivefold increase in asynchronous learning globally. However, there is limited research into the use of game‐based digital technology applications such as Kahoot! and the associated learning theories, particularly in histology, anatomy, and medical education. This scoping review explored the utilization, outcome scores, and student perceptions of learning with the application of Kahoot! in histology, anatomy, and medical education. Online databases were used to identify articles published between 2013 and 2021 from which 12 articles were included in the review. The majority of articles supported positive student outcomes including improved collaborative learning, improved knowledge of content, attendance, and participation. Minor negative aspects included increased time on task, overwhelming learning content, and distractions due to gadgets. None of the articles included a control group. The main educational theories identified were active learning followed by social and constructivism learning theory. In light of the Covid‐19 pandemic a rapid and fundamental shift in how digital applications are being used in educational institutions has evolved. Further research on learning frameworks and studies with control groups is required to evaluate Kahoot! as a potentially valuable online application in histology, anatomy, and medical education.
Teaching molecular techniques at home: Molecular biology labs that can be performed anywhere and enable hands‐on learning of restriction digestion/ligation and DNA amplification
Authors: Barthet Michelle M.
Published: April 2021

COVID 19 has changed about every aspect of life including how we teach in higher education. Laboratory experiments vital for learning hands‐on techniques are limited due to social distancing requirements and increased numbers of distance‐learning students. The solution to loss of hands‐on activities has been to compensate with virtual laboratory modules. Although virtual labs are engaging and offer a simulated hands‐on approach to teaching essential molecular techniques, these simulations do not replace hands‐on experience. I designed two molecular biology laboratory exercises in response to the current teaching limitations that can be completed 'at‐home' and enable low cost hands‐on instruction of essential molecular techniques in any distance‐learning environment including during the COVID 19 pandemic.
Die Haut und ihre Pflege
Authors: Lautenschläger Hans
Published: April 2021

Dem Stratum corneum, der obersten Hautschicht, kommt für die Pflege der Haut eine zentrale Bedeutung zu. Einerseits soll es den Körper vor äußerlichen Einflüssen schützen, andererseits aber für gut dokumentierte kosmetische Wirkstoffe mit entsprechenden Trägern (Carrier) passierbar sein. Lamellare, liposomale und nanodisperse Formulierungen stellen diesbezüglich den heutigen Stand der Technik dar. Der Stoffwechsel und die Pflege der Haut sind eine sehr komplexe Materie, deren Verständnis einen hohen interdisziplinären Wissensstand in Biologie, Biochemie und Chemie voraussetzt. Nachhaltige Hautpflege trägt diesem Verständnis Rechnung und verzichtet auf viele kontraproduktive Komponenten. Die Hautanalyse ist eine Grundvoraussetzung für kausal wirkende, zum Teil modular einsetzbare Zusammensetzungen. Optimal sind Grundlagen, die gleichzeitig dermatologisch für Magistralrezepturen und kosmetisch für die adjuvante Hautpflege oder die Prävention verwendbar sind (Abbildung 16). Physiologie und Chemie müssen dabei keinen Widerspruch darstellen.
Challenges in recognizing urothelial carcinoma in situ with plasmacytoid features by urinary cytology
Authors: Allison Derek B.
Published: April 2021

The first study reporting the urinary cytology findings in patients with the recently described urothelial carcinoma in situ with plasmacytoid features (P‐CIS) suggests that variant morphologic findings of P‐CIS are subtle and often do not meet the Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology criteria for high‐grade urothelial carcinoma.
Verification of an agent‐based disease model of human Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: Curreli Cristina , Pappalardo Francesco , Russo Giulia , Pennisi Marzio , Kiagias Dimitrios , Juarez Miguel , Viceconti Marco
Published: April 2021

Agent‐based models (ABMs) are a powerful class of computational models widely used to simulate complex phenomena in many different application areas. However, one of the most critical aspects, poorly investigated in the literature, regards an important step of the model credibility assessment: solution verification. This study overcomes this limitation by proposing a general verification framework for ABMs that aims at evaluating the numerical errors associated with the model. A step‐by‐step procedure, which consists of two main verification studies (deterministic and stochastic model verification), is described in detail and applied to a specific mission critical scenario: the quantification of the numerical approximation error for UISS‐TB, an ABM of the human immune system developed to predict the progression of pulmonary tuberculosis. Results provide indications on the possibility to use the proposed model verification workflow to systematically identify and quantify numerical approximation errors associated with UISS‐TB and, in general, with any other ABMs.
A performance predictor for implementation selection of parallelized static and temporal graph algorithms
Authors: Rehman Akif , Ahmad Masab , Khan Omer
Published: April 2021

Task‐based execution of graph workloads allows various ordered and unordered implementations, with tasks representing dependencies between graph vertices and edges. This work explores graph algorithms in the context of ordered and unordered task‐based implementations, that trade‐off work‐efficiency with parallelism. The monotonicity of convergent graph solutions is the reason behind the trade‐off between work‐efficiency and parallelism. This trade‐off results in variable performance‐based choices within and across different machines (CPUs and GPUs), graph algorithms, implementations (ordered, relaxed, and unordered). Input graphs also augment this choice space, with this work analyzing temporally changing graphs in addition to the static graphs explored by prior works. These algorithmic and architectural choices are first explored in this work, and it is seen that different graph workload‐input combinations perform optimally on diverse architectural configurations. The resulting choice space is analyzed and this work represents it in the form of characteristic variables that correlate with each choice space. Using these characteristic variables, this work proposes analytical and neural network models to correlate these choice spaces to find the best performing implementation. The variables and the prediction models proposed in this work are also integrated with a state‐of‐the‐art performance predictor on a multiaccelerator setup, and shows geometric performance gains of 54% on a CPU, 14% on a GPU, and 31.5% in a multiaccelerator setup over baseline implementations without performance prediction.
Design of Green‐Emitting Salts from Substituted Pyridines: Understanding the Solid‐State Photodimerization of trans‐1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethylene
Authors: Peedikakkal Abdul Malik Puthan , Al‐Mohsin Hasan , Jalilov Almaz , Sølling Theis I. , Skov Anders B.
Published: April 2021

Polymorphic salts of trans‐1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethylene (bpe), 2[bpeH2] ⋅ (SO4)(2HSO4) (1) and [bpeH2] ⋅ 2HSO4 (2) have been synthesized and their structures determined by X‐ray crystallography. The Schmidt postulate predicts that neither of the salts will give rise to photodimerization so they can both potentially be applied as green light emitters. Despite the predictions, 1 undergoes a stereospecific solid‐state photodimerization reaction with 100 % yield. This is due to UV induced combination of sliding and pedal‐like movement of the pyridyl ring system that influences the alignment of C=C bonds. The sliding motion is restricted in 2. Consequently, the green emission from 1 is completely quenched after photodimerization. It is evident that counter ions play a dominant role in dis‐ and enabling photodimerization; their degree of protonization and lattice placement are important solvent controlled design parameters towards crystal structures that can act as future light emitters.
An Overview of High‐Performance Indoor Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Xu Xiang , Liu Wei , Luo Xiaoyan , Chen Hongbo , Wei Qingya , Yuan Jun , Zou Yingping
Published: April 2021

In recent years, indoor organic photovoltaics (IOPVs) have attracted increasing attention because of their ability to power microelectronic devices and sensors, especially for the internet of things (IoT). In contrast with silicon‐based indoor PV, the IOPVs exhibit better performance due to their tunable bandgap via molecular design, which could achieve a better spectrum matched with the lighting sources. Based on the simulated power conversion efficiency (PCE) in theory, the maximum value can achieve over 50 % under the white LED illumination, which is much higher than the practical top PCE of 31 %, indicating there is room further to improve the performance of IOPVs by various optimization methods. Based on these benefits, the recent progress in IOPVs with different methods was summarizes, and light was shed on the remaining challenges for achieving practical applications in the future. In the end, some guidelines for the development of IOPVs were proposed.
Reliability evaluation and redesign methodology for RFCMOS transceiver frontend circuits in sub‐6‐GHz band of fifth‐generation new radio communication based on the reliability model
Authors: Hsieh Chun‐Ting , Wang Shang‐Hsien , Yeh Chun‐Wei , Lin Wei‐Cheng
Published: April 2021

A proposed RFCMOS reliability subcircuit model to evaluate the transceiver frontend circuits for 5G new radio (NR) networks sub‐6‐GHz application is presented. When studied 1‐year operational performance considering hot‐carrier stress in circuit level, the common‐source LNA circuit is robust in gain and noise figure than common‐gate common‐source LNA circuit, and Class‐A power amplifier loses gain 52%. However, in transceiver system level, the receiver‐used two‐stage common‐gate common‐source LNA shows robust than used common‐source LNA. The transmitter's gain and output power exhibit a strong relationship with performance of Class‐A power amplifier after hot‐carrier stress. When the receiver using the overdriven bias 3.1 V 1 year predicted by proposed model, the EIS is −89.7 dBm, which still meet 5G FR1 standard though the gain degraded to 17 dB; transmitter overdriven at bias 3.3 V, the least output power is 19.1 dBm, which still meet 5G FR1 standard, though the IIP3 worsen to 13%.
Know how to address legal issues related to e‐learning during pandemic
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2021

The shift from in‐person to remote learning solutions has made it more important than ever to understand the role copyright laws play in online class presentations, Jeffrey D. Peterson, Esq., a Partner with the law firm of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP in Wisconsin, explained during a webinar hosted by the Employment Law Alliance.
Negative bias in interpretation and facial expression recognition in late life depression: A case control study
Authors: Baruch Nina , Behrman Sophie , Wilkinson Philip , Bajorek Tomasz , Murphy Susannah E , Browning Michael
Published: April 2021

Objectives

While cognitive bias in younger adults with depression has been extensively researched, there have been relatively few investigations of the presence of cognitive bias in late life depression (LLD). This exploratory study aimed to ascertain whether negative cognitive bias exists across a range of cognitive domains in participants with LLD.

Methods/Design

Participants were 19 patients with LLD and 19 matched non‐depressed older adults. Participants completed standardised tests to assess bias in facial expression recognition, attention, recall of adjectives and interpretation.

Results

LLD participants were slower to identify surprised faces, and more likely to create negative statements in the interpretation task. There was no evidence of negative bias in memory or attention, but participants with LLD performed more poorly on the recall task.

Conclusions

This study provides new evidence of negative bias in interpretation in LLD, but the findings are not consistent with a global cognitive bias Further work is needed to investigate cognitive bias in LLD. It may be that interventions which target negative interpretation biases, such as cognitive bias modification, could be helpful in treating LLD.