bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
El Aprendizaje y Servicio en la retención de estudiantes de ingeniería
Authors: Cornejo Helgueta Jorge , Sánchez Fuentes Sergio
Published: February 2022

Service-Learning is considered a teaching methodology that privileges the participation of students, placing them in the leading or main role to build their own learning. The aim of this paper is to know and analyze the perception of students and teachers regarding how the application of Service-Learning affects the permanence of students in the first training cycle in computing and computing degrees. A mixed research method has been used, with a predominance of the qualitative approach, resorting to a convenience sample of students and teachers from engineering faculties of Chilean universities, in addition to the perception of a group of SL experts. The results obtained, from self-administered questionnaires and surveys, and processed using the Atlas.Ti software, showed that the Service-Learning has an effective and positive impact on student performance. Finally, the authors conclude that it is necessary to implement innovative, participatory learning proposals that combine theory and practice, that achieve meaningful learning in the student, that link it to environmental problems and develop a greater social sense, in order to form not only better professionals but also better citizens.

El Aprendizaje-Servicio (en adelante ApS) se considera una metodología de enseñanza que privilegia la participación del alumnado situándolo en el rol protagónico o principal para construir su propio aprendizaje. El objetivo de este trabajo es conocer y analizar la percepción de estudiantes y docentes respecto de cómo incide la aplicación de ApS en la permanencia de estudiantes del primer ciclo formativo en carreras de computación e informática. Se ha utilizado un método mixto de investigación, con predominancia del enfoque cualitativo, recurriendo a una muestra por conveniencia de estudiantes y docentes de facultades de ingeniería de universidades chilenas, además de la percepción de un grupo de expertos en ApS. Los resultados obtenidos, a partir de cuestionarios autoadministrados y encuestas, y procesados mediante el software Atlas.Ti, mostraron que el ApS incide efectivamente, y de manera positiva, en el rendimiento del estudiantado. Finalmente, los autores concluyen que es necesario implementar propuestas de aprendizajes innovadoras, participativas, que combinen teoría y práctica, que logren un aprendizaje significativo en el estudiante, que lo vinculen a problemas del entorno y desarrollen un mayor sentido social, para así formar no solo mejores profesionales sino también mejores ciudadanos.
Estudio descriptivo de Cibervictimización en una muestra de estudiantes de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria
Authors: Rojo Ramos Jorge , Ferrera Granados Carlos , Mañanas Iglesias Carlos , Guevara Pérez Juan Carlos
Published: February 2022

During adolescence, the greatest risks of misuse of new technologies occur, and with it, the proliferation of cyberbullying. The objective of this work is to carry out a descriptive analysis of cybervictimization according to gender and grade in a sample of Compulsory Secondary Education students from a private school in the city of Cáceres. The methodology used in the research is basic, non-experimental, descriptive-correlational. A total of 141 students from courses throughout the ESO stage participated. The results show a high digitization of households (99.3%). It also appears that verbal-written cybervictimization is the most common in adolescents to carry out cyberbullying.

Durante la adolescencia se producen los mayores riesgos de un mal uso de las nuevas tecnologías, y con ello, la proliferación del ciberacoso. El objetivo del presente trabajo es realizar un análisis descriptivo de cibervictimización en función del género y curso en una muestra de estudiantes de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria de un colegio concertado en la ciudad de Cáceres. La metodología empleada en la investigación es básica, no experimental, descriptiva-correlacional. Participaron un total de 141 alumnos pertenecientes a cursos de toda la etapa de la ESO. Los resultados evidencian una elevada digitalización de los hogares (99,3%). También se desprende que la cibervictimización verbal-escrita es la más común en los adolescentes para llevar a cabo el ciberacoso.
Workshop report :
Authors: Bagchi Shelly , Marvel Jeremy A , Zimmerman Megan , Aksu Murat , Antonishek Brian , Li Xiang , Amor Heni Ben , Fong Terry , Mead Ross , Wang Yue
Published: February 2022

This report details the third annual, full-day workshop exploring the state-of-practice in the metrology necessary for repeatably and independently assessing the performance of robotic systems in real-world human-robot interaction (HRI) scenarios. This workshop continues the aims of shortening the lead time between the theory and applications of HRI, enabling reproducible studies, and accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies as the industry state-of-practice. The workshop was held on March 12, 2021, as part of the virtual ACM/IEEE International Conference on Human-Robot Interaction. This third installment of the annual workshop, 'Test Methods and Metrics for Effective HRI,' seeks to identify novel and emerging test methods and metrics for the holistic assessment and assurance of HRI performance. The focus is on identifying innovative metrics and test methods for the evaluation of HRI performance, and to advance the growth of the HRI community based on the principles of collaboration, data sharing, and repeatability. The goal of this workshop is to aid in the advancement of HRI technologies through the development of experimental design, test methods, and metrics for assessing interaction and interface designs.
Smart cities and communities :
Authors: Serrano Martin , Griffor Edward , Wollman David , Dunaway Michael , Burns Martin , Rhee Sokwoo , Greer Christopher
Published: February 2022

This publication presents research findings and scientific work that advance the development and progression of smart city and community measurement methodology. The term 'smart,' as used in the phrase 'smart cities,' is defined here as the efficient use of digital technologies to provide prioritized services and benefits to meet community goals. Without reliable measurement methods for 'smart,' there is a gap in the ability to answer questions such as 'how smart is my smart city plan,' or 'how can my community strategy be made smarter?' This report addresses this gap by introducing a measurement framework for assessing the direct and indirect benefits of smart city technologies. The Holistic KPI (H-KPI) Framework builds on conventional Key Performance Indicators (KPI) methods and accounts for unique characteristics such as varying districts and neighborhoods, differences in population and economic scale, the reuse of previously deployed technologies, and other factors relevant to a city or community. The Framework provides the basis for developing measuring methods and tools that allow for integration, adaptability, and extensibility at three interacting levels of analysis i.e. technologies, infrastructure services, and community benefits. The H-KPI method provides a structured representation of smart city/community information flows that supports system visualization, serves as the basis for quantitative metrics for measuring 'smart,' and enables computational methods for systems design, analysis, operations, and assurance. The five core metrics of the method are: alignment of KPIs with community priorities across districts and neighborhoods; investment alignment with community priorities; investment efficiency; information flow density; and quality of infrastructure services and community benefits. Applications of the H-KPI approach include strategic planning, systems design and assurance, and operations management.
Global existence and blow-up phenomenon for a quasilinear viscoelastic equation with strong damping and source terms
Authors: Di Huafei , Song Zefang
Published: February 2022

Considered herein is the global existence and non-global existence of the initial-boundary value problem for a quasilinear viscoelastic equation with strong damping and source terms. Firstly, we introduce a family of potential wells and give the invariance of some sets, which are essential to derive the main results. Secondly, we establish the existence of global weak solutions under the low initial energy and critical initial energy by the combination of the Galerkin approximation and improved potential well method involving with \(t\). Thirdly, we obtain the finite time blow-up result for certain solutions with the non-positive initial energy and positive initial energy, and then give the upper bound for the blow-up time \(T^\ast\). Especially, the threshold result between global existence and non-global existence is given under some certain conditions. Finally, a lower bound for the life span \(T^\ast\) is derived by the means of integro-differential inequality techniques.
Targeting DNA topoisomerases or checkpoint kinases results in an overload of chaperone systems, triggering aggregation of a metastable subproteome
Authors: Huiting Wouter , Dekker Suzanne L , van der Lienden Joris CJ , Mergener Rafaella , Musskopf Maiara K , Furtado Gabriel V , Gerrits Emma , Coit David , Oghbaie Mehrnoosh , Di Stefano Luciano H , Schepers Hein , van Waarde-Verhagen Maria AWH , Couzijn Suzanne , Barazzuol Lara , LaCava John , Kampinga Harm H , Bergink Steven
Published: February 2022

A loss of the checkpoint kinase ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) leads to impairments in the DNA damage response, and in humans causes cerebellar neurodegeneration, and an increased risk of cancer. A loss of ATM is also associated with increased protein aggregation. The relevance and characteristics of this aggregation are still incompletely understood. Moreover, it is unclear to what extent other genotoxic conditions can trigger protein aggregation as well. Here, we show that targeting ATM, but also ATR or DNA topoisomerases, results in the widespread aggregation of a metastable, disease-associated subfraction of the proteome. Aggregation-prone model substrates, including Huntingtin exon 1 containing an expanded polyglutamine repeat, aggregate faster under these conditions. This increased aggregation results from an overload of chaperone systems, which lowers the cell-intrinsic threshold for proteins to aggregate. In line with this, we find that inhibition of the HSP70 chaperone system further exacerbates the increased protein aggregation. Moreover, we identify the molecular chaperone HSPB5 as a cell-specific suppressor of it. Our findings reveal that various genotoxic conditions trigger widespread protein aggregation in a manner that is highly reminiscent of the aggregation occurring in situations of proteotoxic stress and in proteinopathies.
Colicin E1 opens its hinge to plug TolC
Authors: Budiardjo S Jimmy , Stevens Jacqueline J , Calkins Anna L , Ikujuni Ayotunde P , Wimalasena Virangika K , Firlar Emre , Case David A , Biteen Julie S , Kaelber Jason T , Slusky Joanna SG
Published: February 2022

The double membrane architecture of Gram-negative bacteria forms a barrier that is impermeable to most extracellular threats. Bacteriocin proteins evolved to exploit the accessible, surface-exposed proteins embedded in the outer membrane to deliver cytotoxic cargo. Colicin E1 is a bacteriocin produced by, and lethal to, Escherichia coli that hijacks the outer membrane proteins (OMPs) TolC and BtuB to enter the cell. Here, we capture the colicin E1 translocation domain inside its membrane receptor, TolC, by high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy to obtain the first reported structure of a bacteriocin bound to TolC. Colicin E1 binds stably to TolC as an open hinge through the TolC pore—an architectural rearrangement from colicin E1’s unbound conformation. This binding is stable in live E. coli cells as indicated by single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. Finally, colicin E1 fragments binding to TolC plug the channel, inhibiting its native efflux function as an antibiotic efflux pump, and heightening susceptibility to three antibiotic classes. In addition to demonstrating that these protein fragments are useful starting points for developing novel antibiotic potentiators, this method could be expanded to other colicins to inhibit other OMP functions.
Galvanic current activates the NLRP3 inflammasome to promote Type I collagen production in tendon
Authors: Peñin-Franch Alejandro , García-Vidal José Antonio , Martínez Carlos Manuel , Escolar-Reina Pilar , Martínez-Ojeda Rosa M , Gómez Ana I , Bueno Juan M , Minaya-Muñoz Francisco , Valera-Garrido Fermín , Medina-Mirapeix Francesc , Pelegrín Pablo
Published: February 2022

The NLRP3 inflammasome coordinates inflammation in response to different pathogen- and damage-associated molecular patterns, being implicated in different infectious, chronic inflammatory, metabolic and degenerative diseases. In chronic tendinopathic lesions, different non-resolving mechanisms produce a degenerative condition that impairs tissue healing and which therefore complicates their clinical management. Percutaneous needle electrolysis consists of the application of a galvanic current and is an emerging treatment for tendinopathies. In the present study, we found that galvanic current activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and induces an inflammatory response that promotes a collagen-mediated regeneration of the tendon in mice. This study establishes the molecular mechanism of percutaneous electrolysis that can be used to treat chronic lesions and describes the beneficial effects of an induced inflammasome-related response.
Aetiological Profiles of Pancytopenia in Children between 2 months to 12 years of AgeA Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Care Centre, Chennai, India
Authors: Thappa Swetha Karun , Masilamani Divya , Prasanna Sudhakar , Krishnasamy Athmarthan , Manjunathan Reji
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Pancytopenia is a medical condition that generally exists among children in which the peripheral blood cell lineages are found to reduce in blood. The condition is diagnosed as a common haematological problem with an extensive differential diagnosis and vary according to the geographical distribution and genetic mutation. The condition is reversible and easily treatable if identified at the earliest. Aim: To determine the frequency of aetiological spectrum of pancytopenia in children between the age of 2 months to 12 years from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was carried out at the Institute of Child Health, Madras Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, from January 2016 to December 2016. Out of 12,869 patients admitted, 91 children were identified with pancytopenia based on peripheral blood smear analysis. Complete blood count, peripheral smear, red blood cell indices, bone marrow examination, and serum vitamin B12 levels were analysed. The complete data was tabulated in Microsoft excel sheet and frequency(n) and percentage (%) analysis was performed. Results: Total of 91 children of pancytopenia (45 males and 46 females , aged from 6 months to 12 years) were included in the study and analysed. Majority of the pancytopenia children belonged to the age group of 1 to 6 years (40, 43.9%). The identified common clinical presentations for admission include the unexplained fever (82.92%), pallor (10.8%), and bleeding (9.79%). The common major aetiologies were megaloblastic anaemia (23, 25.2%), acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (17, 18.6%), and aplastic anaemia (12, 13.1%). Infections due to microorganisms in children also cause pancytopenia and there was one child each with the infectious symptoms due to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), tuberculosis, and Epstein-Barr Virus (HBV). Conclusion: Acute leukaemia and bone marrow failure were identified as the most common causes of pancytopenia in children. It is highly advisable to record the symptoms related with iron deficiency anaemia along with the symptomatic issues of certain viral and bacterial infections among children from the developing nations while diagnosing pancytopenia.
Common Modalities of Reconstruction for Scrotal Defects at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern India: An Observational Study
Authors: Dutta Gouranga , Rai Abhishek Kumar , Singh Manoj Kumar , Bhattacharya Rupnarayan
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Scrotal reconstruction remains a challenging problem to the surgeons. The various techniques used for scrotal reconstruction includes residual tissue re-arrangement, skin grafts, pedicled and free tissue transfer. There is lack of unified approach to deal with the issue. Aim: To discuss the surgical techniques performed for scrotal reconstruction in a tertiary care centre along with its epidemiological factors. Materials and Methods: This observational descriptive study was conducted on 33 cases in a tertiary care centre located in Eastern India over a period of three years. Scrotal reconstruction was planned according to aetiology, defect size, associated co-morbidity and age of the patient. Evaluation to assess the efficacy of each procedure was done with patient’s satisfaction scoring. At the time of discharge, with simple four level Likert scale, patient’s satisfaction was assessed. Descriptive statistics was used and results were expressed in terms of frequency and percentage. Results: The mean age of the patients with scrotal defects was 48±15.98 years. Fournier’s gangrene (n=21) was the leading cause of scrotal defects followed by trauma (n=8). The most common scrotal defect size was 50-75% (n=12). The most common scrotal reconstruction performed was Pudendal artery flap (Singapore flap) (n=12). Donor site scar was limited and acceptable. Wound related complications detected clinically as partial tissue necrosis, was observed in two cases. Most patients were satisfied with the final outcome, assessed by Likert scale. Conclusion: Scrotal reconstruction should be performed taking in account its aetiology, associated comorbidity, age and the scrotal defect size. Aesthetically and psychologically, well planned flap is reliable and better in comparison to Split-Thickness Skin Graft (STSG) and most of the complications can be managed conservatively.
Clinical Characteristics of Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome and Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma Patients: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bharadwaj Rahul , Bhatt Jyoti , Singh Sindhuja , Dhawan Aeshvarya , Bhadauria Madhu , Chaudhary Prakhar , Singh Anupam , Sumangalam Saurabh
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) is a systemic disease characterised by the accumulation of dandruff like fluffy deposits of fibrillar granular material. It is the most common cause of secondary open angle glaucoma. Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma (PXG) is typically associated with rapid visual field loss, greater severity of optic neuropathy and pressure spikes. Aim: To evaluate the clinical characteristic of Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome (PXS) and PXG in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was done at Sitapur Eye Hospital, Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, India. The authors reviewed the medical records database to identify all patients aged 35 years or older with PXG or PXS who attended the outpatient clinic between January 1, 2020 and January 31, 2021. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board at Sitapur Eye Hospital, Sitapur. Continuous variables were calculated by Mann-whitney and student t-test and qualitative variables using the chi-square test. The p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 40 patients with 78 eyes were diagnosed as having PXG or PXS. The mean age of study patients was 66.12±11.63 years. The male to female ratio was 2.64:1. The average Intra Ocular Pressure (IOP), Cup:Disk ratio was more in the patients having PXG (p<0.001) as compared to PXS. The PEX at the pupillary margin and pupillary ruff atrophy was more in PXG. The bilateral involvement of disease was observed in most of the patients. Conclusions: The spectrum of PEX includes a detailed ocular and systemic examination. Dilated anterior segment examination should be emphasised in routine practice to prevent missed diagnosis of early PEX patients, thus resulting in decreased glaucomatous damage.
Effects of Spatial Training Paradigms on Auditory Spatial Refinement in Normal-Hearing Listeners: A Comparative Study
Authors: Nisha Kavassery Venkateswaran , Kumar Ajith Uppunda
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: This study compared the effectiveness of two spatial training programs using real and virtual sound sources in refining spatial acuity skills in listeners with normal hearing.Subjects and Methods: The study was conducted on two groups of 10 participants each; groups I and II underwent spatial training using real and virtual sound sources, respectively. The study was conducted in three phases: pre-training, training, and post-training phases. At the pre- and post-training phases, the spatial acuity of the participants was measured using real sound sources through the localization test, and virtual sound sources through the virtual acoustic space identification (VASI) test. The thresholds of interaural time difference (ITD) and interaural level difference (ILD) were also measured. In the training phase, Group I participants underwent localization training using loudspeakers in free field, while participants in Group II were subjected to virtual acoustic space (VAS) training using virtual sound sources from headphones. Both the training methods consisted of 5-8 sessions (20 min each) of systematically presented stimuli graded according to duration and back attenuation (for real source training) or number of VAS locations (for virtual source training).Results: Results of independent t-scores comparing the spatial learning scores (pre vs. post-training) for each measure showed differences in performance between the two groups. Group II performed better than Group I on the VASI test, while the Group I out-performed Group II on the ITD. Both groups improved equally on the localization test and ILD.Conclusions: Based on the present findings, we recommend the use of VAS training as it has practical implications due to its cost effectiveness, need for minimal equipment, and end user usefulness.
A REVIEW ON THE CONCEPT OF SEVANI
Authors: Kumar Mahesh , Kumar Rajesh , . Priyanka , Gupta S S
Published: February 2022

Ayurveda is the most ancient life science in the world. Ayurveda gives fundamental knowledge about the life of human beings and its associated science too. Ashtanga Ayurveda (eight limbs of Ayurveda) is described in Ayurvedic Samhita’s (Ancient literature) very much elaborated. Various body parts have been interrelated in the 5th chapter of Sushruta’s Sharirsthan (Sharirsankhyavyakaran Shariram). In this chapter, Acharya Sushruta (father of Surgery) explained about anga (organ), pratyang (body component) and their numbers some likes Twacha (Skin), Kala (membrane), Aashaya (cavity like a sac), Snayu (ligament), Sevani etc. At the same time, Acharya Charaka (sage) is described as shadang Sharir (six-part of the body) and 56 pratyang such as Twacha, Kala, Aashaya, Snayu and Sevani etc. Sevani is one of the crucial structures of the body which divides the skull into different parts. The number of Sevani is seven in the body. There is a lot of controversy in words and seemant (type of joint). Hence in this review attempt is made to clarify these terms with the help of modern science.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Methanolic Extract of Avicennia marina Leaf Extract against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Ramasubramanian Swetha , Roy Anitha , Sivaperumal Pitchiah , Lakshmi T.
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Mangrove are widespread in the tropical and subtropical regions of Indo-West-Pacific area. Avicennia marina possesses vast medicinal values. The pharmacological activity of the plant is attributed to the presence of several phytochemicals.

Aim: To evaluate the antibacterial activity of Avicennia marina leaf extract against Staphylococcus aureus.

Methods and Materials: Plant extract prepared by adding 20g of dried powdered mangrove leaf sample to 100 ml of methanol. MDRSA, MRSA & VRSA were cultured in Muller –Hinton Broth for 24 hr at room temperature. From this prepared bacterial suspension, 1ml of was spread over Muller Hinton agar plate and incubated for 24hrs at ambient temperature. Antibacterial activity carried out through the disc diffusion method. Whatman filter paper discs (5mm) were impregnated with various concentrations (50, 100, 150, 200, 250 & 300 µg/ml) of leaf extract. After incubating the plates for 24hr at room temperature the zone of inhibition was measured. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration was determined in 5 concentrations (50 -300 µg/ml) with blank (extract in Muller Hinton broth). The inoculated bacteria in test tubes are incubated for 24hr in ambient temperature. The results are noted as well growth (+) and inhibited (-). Tetracycline (1µg/ml) was used as standard and DMSO as negative control.

Results: The zone of inhibition was  greater at 300µg/ml of the extract  for MDRSA  ( 13±1.2) , MRSA ( ( 13±1.4) )& VRSA ( 9±1.2). MIC for MDRSA, MRSA and VRSA was 250µg/ml,  200µg/ml  150µg/ml respectively.

Conclusion: The present study showed effective antibacterial activity of Avicennia marina against MDRSA, MRSA, VRSA. Hence, this extract may be used for infections against resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Preparation of Mouthwash Using Red Tea and Its Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Ramamoorthy Jagadheeswari , Rajasekar Arvina , Rajeshkumar S.
Published: February 2022

Background: Poor oral hygiene provides an optimum environment for bacterial biofilms formation leading to the development of periodontal diseases. Currently, researchers focus on developing oral hygiene products such as mouthwash that contain available natural products with superior biocompatibility and a low cost.

Aim: The aim of the study was to prepare mouthwash using red tea and to evaluate its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Materials and Methods: This study was performed as an in vitro study under a laboratory setting. Mouthwash was prepared using red tea in the lab. Subsequently the formulation was tested for its antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. Antimicrobial activity was conducted through agar well diffusion method. Antioxidant activity of the herbal mouthwash was tested using the DPPH assay at various concentrations. The obtained values were compared with that of the standard. The data was tabulated represented by the means of bar graphs.

Results: There was an increase in the zone of inhibition of bacteria with an increase in concentration of mouthwash. DPPH assay for antioxidant activity revealed that at all concentrations the standard had more antioxidant activity compared to the herbal mouthwash. Throughout from 10 μl to 50 μl the antioxidant activity of the standard was greater than the prepared red tea mouthwash.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, Red tea mediated mouthwash was found to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties at varied concentrations.
Anticariogenic Activity of Copper Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Red Tea: An In vitro Study
Authors: Sagana M. , Rajasekar Arvina , Rajeshkumar S.
Published: February 2022

Background: Nanotechnology is rapidly growing in various fields of science like medicinal, agricultural and physical and material sciences. Copper nanoparticles are particularly attractive because of copper’s high natural abundance and low cost and the practical and straightforward multiple ways of preparing copper based nanomaterials.

Aim: To assess the anticariogenic activity of copper nanoparticles synthesized using red tea.

Materials and Methods: The red tea powder was acquired. An aqueous extract was prepared and mixed with copper sulphate for copper nanoparticles formation and centrifuged for 10 minutes. The extract was then placed in the well cultured agar plates against Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans, S. aureus and E. faecalis and incubated for 24 hours. The zones of inhibition were then calculated.

Results: Against S. aureus, 50 μl showed 20 mm of zone of inhibition, 100 μl showed 16 mm of zone of inhibition and 150 μl showed 20 mm of zone of inhibition. 19 mm of zone of inhibition were noted against the antibiotic. Against C. albicans, 50 μl showed 12 mm of zone of inhibition, 100 μl showed 13 mm of zone of inhibition and 150 μl showed 12 mm of zone of inhibition. 10 mm of zone of inhibition were noted against the antibiotic. Against S. mutans, 50 μl showed 17 mm of zone of inhibition, 100 μl showed 14 mm of zone of inhibition and 150 μl showed 19 mm of zone of inhibition. 35 mm of zone of inhibition were noted against the antibiotic. Against E. faecalis, 50 μl showed 12 mm of zone of inhibition, 100 μl showed 15 mm of zone of inhibition and 150 μl showed 19 mm of zone of inhibition. 35 mm of zone of inhibition were noted against the antibiotic.

Conclusion: The anticariogenic activity of copper nanoparticles synthesized using red tea were studied and their wider zones of inhibition were suggestive of good anticariogenic activity. We conclude that copper nanoparticles synthesized using red tea can be used against S. aureus, S. mutans, C. albicans and E. faecalis as an anticariogenic agent.
Anti Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity of Stevia and Peppermint Herbal Formulation
Authors: Ramya G. , Varghese Sheeja. S. , Rajeshkumar S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction: It is important to counteract the oxidative stress and inflammatory burden occurring in the body. The use of herbal components obtained via green synthesis, such as Stevia and peppermint which are alcohol-free and comprise relatively of less chemical components and have been therapeutically found effective for antidiabetic properties can prove to be more efficient and biocompatible to tackle the same.

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of a herbal formulation of stevia rebaudiana and peppermint at varying concentrations.

Materials and Methods: The study was performed as an in vitro study under a laboratory setting. Synthesis of the herbal formulation was performed using stevia and peppermint in the lab. Subsequently the formulation was tested for its anti-inflammatory activity using the protein denaturation assay and antioxidant activity using the DPPH Assay method at various concentrations. The obtained values were compared with that of the known standard. The statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS software analysis version 23.

Results: Anti inflammatory property of the Steviaa and peppermint herbal formulation was significantly less at 10μL concentration but at higher concentrations it was comparable to the standard. Regaling the antioxidant property, the herbal formulation showed a concentration dependent increase from lower concentration to higher concentration but at all levels it was significantly lesser than the standard.

(p<0.05)

Conclusion: The herbal formulation of Stevia and peppermint is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. It possesses antioxidant properties, however which are not as effective as the standard.
Re-examination of the quartz artefacts from Scord of Brouster
Authors: Ballin Torben Bjarke
Published: February 2022

In the late 1970s, a substantial quartz assemblage was recovered from the Neolithic settlement at Scord of Brouster, Shetland (NGR: HU 2560 5165) . At the time, bipolar technique (which is responsible for a substantial proportion of the assemblage), as well as quartz technology in general, were poorly understood, and it was not possible to fully make use of the assemblage in the interpretation of the site, the region, or the period. With our expanded understanding of bipolar approaches and quartz technology, this is now possible, and, in the present paper, the assemblage is re-examined, re-classified and re-interpreted. The quartz assemblage is used to gain a deeper insight into the site itself, and its lithic component and a first sketch of the territorial structure of Neolithic Scotland is presented.
excavation of four caves in the Geodha Smoo near Durness, Sutherland
Authors: Pollard Tony , Barrett James , Smith Catherine , Photos-Jones Effie , Alldritt Diane , Squair Robert , Cerón-Cerrasco Ruby
Published: February 2022

In response to the threat posed by marine and river erosion, a series of deeply stratified midden deposits was excavated in caves leading off a narrow, rock-cut inlet known as the Geodha Smoo, near Durness, Sutherland. These included the famous Smoo Cave (NGR: NC 4136 6714), at the southern end of the inlet; two smaller caves cut into the western wall of the inlet (Glassknapper's Cave and Antler Cave); and a fourth cave (Wetweather Cave) in the eastern wall. The majority of excavated deposits from these caves appear to relate to Viking/Norse or post-Norse activity, with fish bones, marine shells and mammal and bird bones representing the processing and consumption of marine and terrestrial foods. Possible evidence for metalsmithing in the form of iron slag and boat nails could suggest that boats were repaired in the sheltered inlet. Four radiocarbon dates from Smoo Cave and Glassknapper's Cave provide evidence for use of these sites between the eighth and 11th centuries AD. Convincing evidence for pre-Norse activity, although unsupported by radiocarbon dates, was recovered from Glassknapper's Cave in the form of probable Iron Age pottery, while late Neolithic pottery came from floor deposits in the Wetweather Cave.
O HOMO SACER CONTEMPORÂNEO E A NECROPOLÍTICA NO CONTO “ESPIRAL” DE GEOVANI MARTINS
Authors: Santos Jeniffer Geraldine Pinho
Published: February 2022

A proposta deste artigo é, a partir do conto “Espiral”, presente no livro O sol na cabeça (2018), do escritor brasileiro Geovani Martins, apresentar os conceitos: Homo Sacer, trabalhado pelo filósofo italiano Giorgio Agamben (2007), e Necropolítica, a política da morte, elaborado pelo filósofo camaronês Achille Mbembe (2018). As discussões levantadas a partir dos conceitos citados também serão amparadas em Sueli Carneiro (2011) e Vladimir Safatle (2018). Com esta articulação interessa observar como a representação da desigualdade e da violência na literatura brasileira contemporânea contribui para debater questões sociais e políticas da contemporaneidade.
LITERATURA E ESTÉTICA: UMA ANÁLISE LUKÁCSIANA DO CONTO O VERÃO FELIZ DA SENHORA FORBES, DE GABRIEL GARCÍA MÁRQUEZ
Authors: Moura Andressa Kelly Lima , Santos Maria Escolástica de Moura , Gomes Carolina de Aquino
Published: February 2022

O presente trabalho parte da análise literária do conto O verão feliz da senhora Forbes, de Gabriel García Márquez, a partir da Estética de Georg Lukács. Essa narrativa aborda a rígida educação imposta por uma preceptora alemã a dois irmãos latino-americanos. A partir dela, é possível construir um estudo literário pertinente que, além de tratar de aspectos narrativos, propõe-se a trabalhar com a interdisciplinaridade reivindicada pela própria narrativa. Dessa forma, propomos um diálogo entre a literatura e a educação, de modo a elucidar os motivos da educação truculenta presente na obra e como a arte amplia e torna sensível este tema. Esta pesquisa é de cunho bibliográfico e utiliza, como método de investigação geral, o materialismo histórico-dialético e, complementarmente, o método translinguístico adotado por Chiampi (1980), que consiste em orientar o texto para o contexto.
Low‐level lysosomal membrane permeabilization for limited release and sublethal functions of cathepsin proteases in the cytosol and nucleus
Authors: Reinheckel Thomas , Tholen Martina
Published: February 2022

For a long time, lysosomes were purely seen as organelles in charge of garbage disposal within the cell. They destroy any cargo delivered into their lumen with a plethora of highly potent hydrolytic enzymes, including various proteases. In case of damage to their limiting membranes, the lysosomes release their soluble content with detrimental outcomes for the cell. In recent years, however, this view of the lysosome changed towards acknowledging it as a platform for integration of manifold intracellular and extracellular signals. Even impaired lysosomal membrane integrity is no longer considered to be a one‐way street to cell death. Increasing evidence suggests that lysosomal enzymes, mainly cathepsin proteases, can be released in a spatially and temporarily restricted manner that is compatible with cellular survival. This way, cathepsins can act in the cytosol and the nucleus, where they affect important cellular processes such as cell division. Here, we review this evidence and discuss the routes and molecular mechanisms by which the cathepsins may reach their unusual destination.
Iterative learning control for repetitive tasks with randomly varying trial lengths using successive projection
Authors: Zhuang Zhihe , Tao Hongfeng , Chen Yiyang , Stojanovic Vladimir , Paszke Wojciech
Published: February 2022

This article proposes an effective iterative learning control (ILC) approach based on successive projection scheme for repetitive systems with randomly varying trial lengths. A modified ILC problem is formulated to extend the classical ILC task description to incorporate a randomly varying trial length, while its design objective considers the mathematical expectation of its tracking error to evaluate the task performance. To solve this problem, this article employs the successive projection framework to give an iterative input signal update law by defining the corresponding convex sets based on the design requirements. This update law further yields an ILC algorithm, whose convergence properties are proved to be held under mild conditions. In addition, the input signal constraint can be embedded into the design without violating the convergence properties to obtain an alternative algorithm. The performance of the proposed algorithms is verified using a numerical model to show the effectiveness at occasions with and without input constraints.
Tunable Magnetic Anisotropy in Patterned SrRuO3 Quantum Structures: Competition between Lattice Anisotropy and Oxygen Octahedral Rotation
Authors: Wang Hongguang , Laskin Gennadii , He Weiwei , Boschker Hans , Yi Min , Mannhart Jochen , van Aken Peter A.
Published: February 2022

Artificial perovskite oxide nanostructures possess intriguing magnetic properties due to their tailorable electron–electron interactions, which are extremely sensitive to the oxygen coordination environment. To date, perovskite oxide nanodots with sizes below 50 nm have rarely been reported. Furthermore, the oxygen octahedral distortion and its relation to magnetic properties in perovskite oxide nanodots remain unexplored thus far. Here, the magnetic anisotropy in patterned SrRuO3 (SRO) nanodots as small as 30 nm are studied. The constituent elements, in particular oxygen ions, are directly visualized via performing atomic resolution electron microscopy and spectroscopy. It is observed that the magnetic anisotropy and RuO6 octahedra distortion in SRO nanodots are both nanodot size‐dependent but remain unchanged in the first 3‐unit‐cell interfacial SRO monolayers regardless of the dots’ size. Combined with first principle calculations, a unique structural mechanism behind the nanodots’ size‐dependent magnetic anisotropy in SRO nanodots is unraveled, suggesting that the competition between lattice anisotropy and oxygen octahedral rotation mediates anisotropic exchange interactions in SRO nanodots. These findings demonstrate a new avenue toward tuning magnetic properties of correlated perovskite oxides and imply that patterned nanodots could be a promising playground for engineering emergent functional behaviors.
Micro Eddy Current Facilitated by Screwed MoS2 Structure for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Su Meixia , Zhou Wenda , Liu Lin , Chen Mingyue , Jiang Zhenzhen , Luo Xingfang , Yang Yong , Yu Ting , Lei Wen , Yuan Cailei
Published: February 2022

Eddy current is a magnetic field effect generated in alternating magnetic field (AMF), which could trigger continuous local heating, reducing the energy consumption without impairing the life of the catalyst or reactor. Unfortunately, the investigation of eddy current effect on transition metal disulfides (TMDs) electrocatalysis is still in its infancy, and its actual electrocatalytic applications has been impeded by the multilayered structure of traditional layered TMDs. Typically, the step pyramid MoS2, with a layer‐by‐layer stacking structure just like the silicon steel plate in the transformer, showing an inevitable interlayer potential barrier will suppress the generation of eddy current and cause low efficiency of magnetic heating. In this work, the designed screw pyramid MoS2 can facilitate the formation of micro eddy current and maximize utilization of magnetic heating to boost electrocatalytic activity, benefiting from its eliminated interlayer potential barrier. This work provides a new thinking for the design of field‐assisted electrocatalytic reactions and development of the advanced catalyst technology.
Passivation Failure of Al Current Collector in LiPF6‐Based Electrolytes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yoon Eunjung , Lee Jihye , Byun Seongmin , Kim Dohyun , Yoon Taeho
Published: February 2022

Next‐generation Li‐ion batteries are being developed with high‐voltage cathodes to maximize their energy and power densities. However, the commercialization of high‐voltage cathodes has been delayed due to the degradations of active materials and electrolytes in long‐term cycling. Recent advances have made significant improvements in these issues; however, the corrosion of Al current collector and its effects on battery performances have not been studied in detail despite its importance. In this study, the compositional and morphological evolutions of the passivation layer formed on Al are examined. The ion fluxes of Al3+ and F− through the native oxide layer of Al play a critical role in the formation of the passivation film and the inhibition of further corrosion. However, the continuous diffusion of the ions during long‐term cycling at elevated temperature deteriorates the passivation ability of the film. An artificial diffusion barrier on the surface of Al effectively suppresses the ion fluxes to enhance the cyclability of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4. This work contributes to improving the stability of the current collector at high voltages and serves as a benchmark for corrosion studies concerning advanced energy storage devices.
Hydrogen‐Bonded Cholesteric Liquid Crystals—A Modular Approach Toward Responsive Photonic Materials
Authors: Malotke Florian , Spengler Matthias , Pschyklenk Lukas , Saccone Marco , Kaul Peter , Giese Michael
Published: February 2022

A supramolecular approach for photonic materials based on hydrogen‐bonded cholesteric liquid crystals is presented. The modular toolbox of low‐molecular‐weight hydrogen‐bond donors and acceptors provides a simple route toward liquid crystalline materials with tailor‐made thermal and photonic properties. Initial studies reveal broad application potential of the liquid crystalline thin films for chemo‐ and thermosensing. The chemosensing performance is based on the interruption of the intermolecular forces between the donor and acceptor moieties by interference with halogen‐bond donors. Future studies will expand the scope of analytes and sensing in aqueous media. In addition, the implementation of the reported materials in additive manufacturing and printed photonic devices is planned.
Operation of Wearable Thermoelectric Generators Using Dual Sources of Heat and Light
Authors: Jeong Myeong Hoon , Kim Kwang‐Chon , Kim Jin‐Sang , Choi Kyoung Jin
Published: February 2022

A wearable thermoelectric generator (WTEG) that utilizes human body heat can be a promising candidate for the wearable power generators. The temperature difference (ΔT) between the body and the environment is a stable source driving the WTEG, but this driving force is limited by the ambient temperature itself at the same time. Here, a novel WTEG that can be operated using the dual source of body heat and light with exceptionally high driving force is fabricated. The printable solar absorbing layer attached to the bottom of the WTEG absorbs ≈95% of the light from ultraviolet to far infrared and converts it into heat. To optimize the power density of WTEGs, the fill factor of the thermoelectric (TE) leg/electrode is considered through finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) simulation. When operated by the dual sources, the WTEG exhibits a power density of 15.33 µW cm−2, which is the highest under “actual operating conditions” among all kinds of WTEGs. In addition, unlike conventional WTEGs, the WTEG retains 83.1% of its output power at an ambient temperature of 35 °C compared to its output power at room temperature. This study will accelerate the commercialization of WTEGs by introducing a novel method to overcome their limitations.
Highly Thermally/Electrochemically Stable I−/I3−Bonded Organic Salts with High I Content for Long‐Life Li–I2Batteries
Authors: Li Pei , Li Xinliang , Guo Ying , Li Chuan , Hou Yue , Cui Huilin , Zhang Rong , Huang Zhaodong , Zhao Yuwei , Li Qing , Dong Binbin , Zhi Chunyi
Published: February 2022

Rechargeable lithium–iodine batteries are highly attractive energy storage systems featuring high energy density, superior power density, sustainability, and affordability owing to the promising redox chemistries of iodine. However, severe thermodynamic instability and shuttling issues of the cathode have plagued the active iodine loading, capacity retention and cyclability. Here the development of highly thermally and electrochemically stable I−/I3−‐bonded organic salts as cathode materials for Li–I2batteries is reported. The chemical bonding of iodine/polyiodide ions with organic groups allows up to 80 wt% iodine to be effectively stabilized without sacrificing fast and reversible redox reaction activity. Thus, the shuttle effect is significantly inhibited, which improves cathode capacity and restrains side‐reactions on the Li anode. As a result, such cathodes afford Li–I2batteries a specific capacity of 173.6 mAh g−1methylamine hydroiodide (MAI)(217 mAh g−1I) at 0.5 C, superior rate capability of 133.1 mAh g−1MAIat 50 C, and ultrahigh capacity retention rate of 98.3% over 10000 cycles (5 months). In‐situ, ex‐situ spectral characterizations and density functional theory calculations clarify the robust chemical interaction between iodides and organic groups. The cathode chemistries elucidated here propel the development of Li–I2batteries and are expected to be extended to other metal‐iodine battery technology.
Cobalt‐Free Cathode Materials: Families and their Prospects
Authors: Zhao Hong , Lam Wai‐Yu Ashley , Sheng Li , Wang Li , Bai Peng , Yang Yang , Ren Dongsheng , Xu Hong , He Xiangming
Published: February 2022

With the rapid growth of global electro‐mobility, the demand for cobalt is rapidly increasing because it is currently an indispensable component of the cathode materials in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, the use of Co raises moral issues caused by its exploitation and the geographic limitations of Co resources may result in risking the supply of LIBs. Thus, the development of cobalt‐free (Co‐free) cathodes has become a focus in the LIBs industry. Currently, Co‐free cathodes of lithium‐rich oxides, nickel‐rich layered oxides and spinel lithium nickel manganese oxide (LNMO) are promising candidates but face severe problems. This review article is the first to synthesize and present the progress of Co‐free cathodes made with Li‐rich oxides, Ni‐rich layered oxides and spinel LNMO, identifying their performance, problems and potential development trends. In particular, the roles of cobalt are further clarified, and the full‐cell performance and related commercialization prospects of the three above‐mentioned Co‐free cathodes are also objectively assessed. The focus of this work is to distill detailed and timely insights from the corresponding research progress on these materials and to demonstrate the associated urgency, challenges and opportunities in this field, thus facilitating a faster industrialization of Co‐free cathodes.