bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Razón y experiencia religiosa de los jóvenes en la postmodernidad
Authors: Marzal Manuel
Published: July 2019

Al presentar su hipótesis, el autor comenzará por referirse a los cambios del país, de la Iglesia y del horizonte cultural que han vivido los jóvenes peruanos. Se diría que los jóvenes crecieron en el desconcierto provocado por cambios tan rápidos. Ante este mundo cambiado y postmodemo, ¿qué caminos religiosos toman los jóvenes? No pocos, ante la secularización de la cultura que acentúa el relativismo religioso, reprimen la pregunta del sentido de la vida y viven no el ateísmo, que parece ser un género en extinción, sino un agnosticismo funcional. Sin embargo, la mayoría de los jóvenes se plantean, de modo más o menos consciente, la pregunta y optan por uno de estos tres caminos: seguir por cierta inercia en la Iglesia cultural, que es parte de la identidad colectiva; insertarse activamente en la Iglesia renovada y pluralista; o situarse claramente al margen de la Iglesia.
¿Quién fue Jesús de Nazaret?
Authors: García José Miguel
Published: July 2019

La vida de Jesús de Nazaret ha sido unos de los temas que más ha llamado la atención en el pensamiento de Occidente desde que se dio a conocer hace más de 2000 años. Esta atención ha recaído en creyentes y no creyentes, con lo cual ha generado un debate que hasta hoy continúa. Con ánimos de alimentar este tipo de discusiones, José Miguel García elaboró el ensayo “¿Quién fue Jesús de Nazaret?”. En este texto, el autor planteó que el cristianismo no se fundamenta sobre ideas, sino sobre acontecimientos de la vida de Jesús y la fe que debemos tener como verdaderos cristianos e hijos suyos.
Analisis usaha perkembangan budidaya ikan dalam jaring apung di Desa Tandengan Kabupaten Minahasa
Authors: Pontoh Otniel
Published: July 2019

Abstract   The research aimed to study the potential of fish culture in floating net and its development at Tandengan Village Minahasa Regency. This research was a case study and the data collected was analyzed qualitatively with a simple mathematical calculations.  Observation and interview to the fishermen who had floating net culture were used to gather the primary and secondary data. The results showed that education degree of fish culturist was 20% elementary school, 20% intermediate school, 60% high school, and 10% bachelor. People experience in running fish culture activity was over 10 years in average. Fish culture activities increased year by year.  The problems faced by fish culturist included weather, water condition, food price, and market demand.  The increase of floating net culture activities in this area had resulted in the increase of  labor demand.  The skill of fish culturist needed to be develop through education and training as well as through establishing fish culturists cooperation considering there were many fish culturists present at Tandengan village. This was important due to the development of floating net culture had positive impact in providing working opportunity and increasing people welfare.   Keywords : Tandengan Village, case study, fish culture, floating net
Penggunaan ragi roti (Saccharomyces cereviciae) secara in situ untuk meningkatkan respon kebal non-spesifik ikan nila (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Rawung Meilina E , Manoppo Henky
Published: July 2019

The objetive of research was to examine the effect of yeast cell Saccharomyces cereviciae on non-specific immune response of nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Juveniles weighing 31.83 g in average were cultured in five concrete tanks with a density of 30 fish per tank. The fish were fed pellet supplemented with yeast cell at five different doses (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 g/kg pellet) for three consecutive weeks as much as 4%/bb/day, twice daily. At the end of feeding, three fish from each tank were sampled to measure the immune parameters namely total leucocyte count and phagocytosis activity of phagocyte cells. Research results showed that after three weeks of feeding, total leucocyte and phagocytosis activity of fish fed pellet supplemented with yeast cells were significantly different as compared to those of control fish.  The highest total leucocyte and phagocytosis activity were achieved in fish fed pellet supplemented with 10 g of yeast cells/kg pellet.  It was concluded that the use of yeast cells for three weeks could enhance the nonspecific immune response of nile tilapia. Keywords: Saccharomyces cerreviciae, nonspecific immune response, total leucocyte count, phagocytosis activity, nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Identifikasi Parasit pada Ikan Kerapu Sunu, Plectropomus leopardus
Authors: Sauyai Kristian , Longdong Sammy N.J , Kolopita Magdalena E.F
Published: July 2019

This research aimed to identify, analyze and determine the prevalence rate and dominance index of parasites on grouper (Plectropomus leopardus) landed at Bahu Beach. The number of samples used was 20 fishes measuring 230,68-490,10 g in weight and 24-29 cm in length. Ectoparasites were observer in mucus, fin, and gill while endoparasites were observed in peritoneal cavity and intestine of fish. Parasites invested grouper were Lernaeocera branchialis, Unitubulotestis sardae Acanthochondria cornuta, Mirasidium Schistosomatium douthiti, Argulus sp and  Gnathia maxillaris. All the parasites were found in fish gill and only one species in the mucus. Prevalence rate of parasites was 40%.  Based on parasite species, prevalence rate of  Unitubulotestis sardae was 20%, Acanthochondria cornuta 10%, Gnathia maxillaries 10%, Lernaeocera branchilia 5%, Mirasidium Schistosomatium douthiti 5% and Argulus sp 5%.  Parasites infected grouper dominated by three species namely Unitubulotestis sardae, Acanthochondria cornuta, and Gnathia maxillaris in which all the species were dominant in the gill.   Keywords :  Parasite, Plectropomus leopardus, prevalence rate, dominance index
Mass-loss Rates for O and Early B Stars Powering Bow Shock Nebulae: Evidence for Bistability Behavior
Authors: Kobulnicky Henry A. , Chick William T. , Povich Matthew S.
Published: July 2019

Second only to initial mass, the rate of wind-driven mass loss determines the final mass of a massive star and the nature of its remnant. Motivated by the need to reconcile observational values and theory, we use a recently vetted technique to analyze the mass-loss rates in a sample of OB stars that generate bow shock nebulae. We measure peculiar velocities from new Gaia parallax and proper motion data and their spectral types from new optical and infrared spectroscopy. For our sample of 70 central stars in morphologically selected bow shock nebulae, 67 are OB stars. The median peculiar velocity is 11 km s−1, significantly smaller than classical “runaway star” velocities. Mass-loss rates for these O and early B stars agree with recently lowered theoretical predictions, ranging from ≃10−7
M
⊙ yr−1 for mid-O dwarfs to 10−9
M
⊙ yr−1 for late O dwarfs—a factor of about 2.7 lower than the often-used Vink et al. formulation. Our results provide the first observational mass-loss rates for B0–B3 dwarfs and giants—10−9 to 10−8
M
⊙ yr−1. We find evidence for an increase in the mass-loss rates below a critical effective temperature, consistent with predictions of the bistability phenomenon in the range T
eff = 19,000–27,000 K. The sample exhibits a correlation between modified wind momentum and luminosity, consistent in slope but lower by 0.43 dex in magnitude compared to canonical wind–luminosity relations. We identify a small subset of objects deviating most significantly from theoretical expectations as probable radiation-driven bow wave nebulae by virtue of their low stellar-to-nebular luminosity ratios. For these, the inferred mass-loss rates must be regarded as upper limits.
Orbital Stability and Precession Effects in the Kepler-89 System
Authors: Kane Stephen R.
Published: July 2019

Among the numerous discoveries resulting from the Kepler mission are a plethora of compact planetary systems that provide deep insights into planet formation theories. The architecture of such compact systems also produces unique opportunities to study orbital dynamics in compact environments and the subsequent evolution of orbital parameters. One of the compact Kepler systems is Kepler-89, a system for which the radial velocity follow-up observations place strong upper limits on the masses of the planets and their Keplerian orbital elements. The potential for noncircular orbits in this system make it a compelling system to study dynamical constraints on the measured orbital parameters. I present a dynamical analysis of the system that demonstrates the stability of the circular model and shows that the eccentric model of the system is not stable. The analysis indicates that planets c and d, although close to the 2:1 secular resonance, do not permanently occupy the 2:1 resonance configuration. I explore regions of orbital parameter space to identify the upper bounds of orbital eccentricity for the planets. I further show how the dynamics in the compact system leads to significant periastron precession of the innermost planets. Finally, I quantify the effect of the periastron precession on the transit times of the planets compared with the cyclic variations expected from transit timing variations.
Risk Factors for Poor Surgical Outcome of Pediatric Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Authors: Dietze Jamie , Suh Donny
Published: July 2019

Purpose:

To determine whether there are common factors that may help predict if a child is at a higher risk for surgical failure for nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

Methods:

This retrospective, observational case-control clinical study reviewed patient factors present prior to surgical intervention and their correlation with the necessity of multiple surgeries. A pediatric ophthalmologist identified patients who required surgical correction based on symptom history refractory to conservative management. Patients were grouped by the need for multiple surgical interventions versus single surgery. Patient factors hypothesized to predispose patients to an unsuccessful initial procedure were compared via odds ratio analysis. Patient success was based on symptom resolution 6 months postoperatively.

Results:

Patient factors with statistically significant increased odds ratios were trisomy 21, allergic rhinitis/seasonal allergies, history of an upper respiratory tract infection within 1 month, and obstructive sleep apnea.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that patients with trisomy 21 or a history of recent upper respiratory tract infection may be correlated with a higher risk of failure with a probing and irrigation surgery only. Patients with trisomy 21 may benefit from an initial balloon dilation procedure rather than probing and irrigation, due to an increased risk profile. Patients with a recent upper respiratory tract infection may benefit from postponing surgery until symptom treatment or resolution.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2019;56(4):261–264.]
Surgical Responses and Outcomes of Bilateral Medial Rectus Recession in Esotropia With Spinocerebellar Ataxia
Authors: Chun Bo Young , Freire Marcelle V. , Cestari Dean M.
Published: July 2019

Purpose:

To evaluate the surgical responses and outcomes of bilateral medial rectus (BMR) recession in esotropic patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) and to compare the results with normal controls.

Methods:

The medical records of patients with SCA who underwent strabismus surgery for esotropia between 2006 and 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. Five esotropic patients with SCA (SCA group) and 10 esotropic patients without neurologic disorders (control group) who underwent BMR recession were included. Success rates, surgical responses, and the amount of preoperative and postoperative distance-near disparity were evaluated and compared between the groups.

Results:

The mean preoperative esodeviation was not different between the SCA and control groups (20 vs 17.3 prism diopters [PD],
P
= .214). However, patients with SCA showed significant undercorrection compared with controls 1 week postoperatively (4.8 vs 1.0 PD,
P
= .048) and at the final follow-up (6.8 vs 1.8 PD,
P
= .032). The surgical success rates for the SCA and control groups were 40% and 80%, respectively (
P
= .095). Patients with SCA demonstrated a significantly reduced surgical response compared with controls (3.15 vs 3.87 PD/mm,
P
= .004), and a greater amount of postoperative distance-near disparity than controls (8.0 vs 1.1 PD,
P
= .001).

Conclusions:

A significant undercorrection was observed following BMR recession in esotropic patients with SCA. Accordingly, the authors recommend a slight overcorrection of 5 to 10 PD or adding a slanting procedure when planning strabismus surgery for this distinct group of patients.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2019;56(4):266–270.]
The car pet in the carpet. On the interaction of computer-linguistic methodology and manual refinement in researching noun compounds
Authors: Huber Elisabeth
Published: July 2019

Why does football combine productively with further nouns to form more complex expressions like football game, whereas seemingly comparable compounds like keyword only infrequently expand to more complex sequences? This project explores why some two-noun compounds are more readily available for forming triconstituent constructions than others. I hypothesize that the productivity of a two-noun compound in the formation of triconstituent sequences depends on the degree of entrenchment of that two-noun compound, assuming that only compounds that are entrenched to a certain degree are productive in forming more complex constructions. In order to test this hypothesis, a list of three-noun compounds in the English language needed to be compiled. The obvious thing to do would be to search for sequences of three nouns in POS-tagged corpora. However, since such automatized searches on the one hand do not allow the recall of all required instances and, on the other hand, often create results that are not precise enough, this requires substantial manual screening. Furthermore, in order to operationalize the concepts of entrenchment and productivity, it was necessary to count the usage frequencies of noun constructions. For this work, as well, the automatic elicitation of the data needed to be complemented by further manual selection in order to obtain correct usage frequencies. Both the complex automatic and manual work processes in the elicitation of the data will be presented in detail to give an impression of the extent of such a project.
Positioning Locality Based on Cognitive Directions and Context in Indoor Landmark Reference System
Authors: Wang Yankun , Wang Weixi , Li Xiaoming , Tang Shengjun , Li You
Published: July 2019

Abstract. Geographic information sciences (GIS) have been entering an era of information explosion. The data-related geographic can be divided into many classes, according to their sources and format, such as raster dataset, shape file, textual information, and voice. Locality description, which is a common form of voice, conveys considerable spatial information and can be derived from our daily communication. The issue of dealing with the locality description information is a research hot spot of next-generation GIS for many scholars.Locality description reflects direct or indirect human interaction with environment directly. As an external expression of cognition, the uncertainty that is associated with locality description is inevitable. Locality description generally contains spatial relationships (i.e., topological, distance, and direction relations) and reference objects (ROs). Any feature with a name can be regarded as an RO. Topological relations, which convey rough information-related locality and can be refined by distance or direction relations, are seldom used directly in locality description positioning. The distance and direction relations are usually combined to describe locality, which conveys many clues to position locality.Humans have a weak sense of direction indoors, and relative directions are used frequently in locality description. For example, locality description indoors can be given as follows: “Object A is in front of me, and object B is on my left. Context is an unavoidable topic of Locality description. The locality description is complex, either explicitly or implicitly, especially in a landmark reference system (i.e., a reference system where people can describe his locality with one or several landmarks), in which the nearest landmark can be selected easily to describe locality. On the basis of this context, the locality description (“Object A is in front of me, and object B is on my left”) stated above in an indoor landmark reference system (ILRS) implies that objects A and B are near the individual. Hence, the meaning of “Object A is in front of me, and object B is on my left” in ILRS is the same as that of “Object A is in front of me, object B is on my left, and they are all near to me”.This paper introduces a novel method of positioning localities indoors by using locality description in ILRS. To achieve positioning of localities with directions description and context in ILRS, we propose a joint probability function that consists of qualitative distance (i.e., near relation) and relative direction membership function. The qualitative distance membership function that considers both minimum Euclidean distance and the stolen area is based on fuzzy set. For consistency with cognition, some definitions are provided during the calculation of relative direction, which can also reduce the number of points to be explored from an algorithmic point of view.
Cartographers and geographers as toponym users, creators, and promoters. A linguistic perspective on cartographic and textual dissemination of geographical names
Authors: Włoskowicz Wojciech
Published: July 2019

Abstract. Cartographers and geographers constitute a special and in some way privileged group of toponym users and toponym creators. The principles of establishing and using geographical names by the mentioned scientists and professionals are determined by various superior scientific, legal, political or administrative regulations that are, generally speaking, not known and not observed by the general public in their general language use. However, the use of geographical names by general public is directly or indirectly influenced by name choices and name creations made by cartographers and geographers.Nevertheless, neither cartographers nor geographers are independent “toponymic decision-makers”. Being privileged toponym users and creators, they are still only one “collective” player in a much broader and much more complex constellation of actors and factors such as: local communicative communities, already existing texts and previous maps, linguistic norm of a given language in which toponyms are meant to be used (or in which a map is to be prepared), toponymic codification of various types (official/linguistic/scientific codification), and superior (mainly legal) guidelines of language and toponymic policy of a given country. In other words: in their toponymic choices cartographers and geographers are both the influencing and the influenced ones.The privileges which cartographers and geographers enjoy as toponym users and creators result mainly form the fact that the texts they create (and these comprise maps as well) are often automatically perceived by the general public as somehow prestigious, correct or even normative. On the other hand, the way geographers design toponyms as labels for geographical concepts differs from the “natural” and “spontaneous” way most toponyms were created or rather “came into being” in the past. The geographically and cartographically named objects are “defined” on the basis of scientific (e.g. physiographical or geological) criteria, which is obviously not the case with the geographical features “intuitively” perceived by laypeople both now and in the past.The aim of the proposed paper is to provide an outline of a general (top)onomastic model of textual-normative dissemination of geographical names and to use this model in description and explanation of the special role cartographers and geographers play in fixing, establishing, propagating, and creating geographical names. Taking a different perspective, one could put the aim of the paper the following way as well: the goal is to describe cartographers and geographers as language users within the very specific and narrow scope of toponym use.
SUBJECT IT-EXTRAPOSITION IN APPLIED LINGUISTICS RESEARCH ARTICLES: SEMANTIC AND SYNTACTIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Ebrahimi Seyed Foad , Moghaddam Reza
Published: July 2019

During the last two decades, numerous studies have focused on linguistic features of academic writing. One of these features, which appears frequently in academic writing and which writers need to improve their use of, is the it-extraposition construction. The existing literature on subject it-extraposition has focused on syntactic analysis (types and patterns) of this construction and little attention has been paid to semantic analysis (meanings); thus, this study aims to explore the types, patterns and meanings of subject it-extraposition used in Applied Linguistics research articles. The study was run on a corpus of 57 Applied Linguistics research articles, wherein the common extraposed subject clauses were the that-clause followed by the infinitive to-clause. It was also evident that minimal attention was devoted to the use of the wh-clause and the -ing participle clause. Concerning patterns of it-extraposition subject clause, subject + predicate and subject + predicate + complement were the most commonly utilised in Applied Linguistics research articles. The findings showed that Applied Linguistics writers were more concerned with expressing and evaluating their opinions and claims semantically. This study could help novice writers, especially novice non-native writers, to increase their awareness regarding how such construction is used syntactically and semantically by expert writers in writing research articles.
Attached at the lips: The influence of romantic kissing motives and romantic attachment styles on relationship satisfaction
Authors: Kulibert Danica J. , Moore Elle A. , Dertinger Melinda M. , Thompson Ashley E.
Published: July 2019

Although romantic kissing is an important part of relationship functioning, little research has focused on motives for romantic kissing and how they may relate to other aspects of romantic relationships. To understand how romantic kissing impacts romantic relationship functioning, the current study assessed the relationship between romantic attachment, romantic kissing motives, and relationship satisfaction. Overall, it was hypothesized that (a) those reporting more sexual/explicit kissing motives and fewer goal attainment/insecurity motives would report higher relationship satisfaction, (b) those reporting a more secure attachment style would report higher relationship satisfaction, and (c) the relationship between romantic kissing motives and relationship satisfaction would vary according to one’s romantic attachment styles. Results from a hierarchical linear regression with 286 adults, all of whom were currently in romantic relationships, revealed that sexual/relational (β = 0.25) and goal attainment/insecurity kissing motives (β = -0.35) predicted relationship satisfaction. However, the impact of kissing motives on relationship satisfaction varied according to one’s romantic attachment. Specifically, the influence of sexual/relational motives was only significant for avoidantly attached individuals, whereas the influence of goal attainment/insecurity motives was significant for avoidantly and anxiously attachment individuals. Overall, this suggests that sexual/explicit romantic kissing motives serve to enhance the relationships of insecurely attached individuals, but not securely attached individuals. Furthermore, goal attainment/insecure motives had a negative effect on the relationship satisfaction of insecurely attached individuals, but not securely attached individuals. This study has important implications for both practitioners working with romantic couples and researchers studying romantic relationships.
Towards a quantitative model of epidemics during conflicts
Authors: Banerjee Soumya
Published: July 2019

Epidemics may both contribute to and arise as a result of conflict. The effects of conflict on infectious diseases are complex and there have been confounding observations of both increase and decrease in disease outbreaks during and after conflicts. However there is no unified mathematical model that explains all these counter-intuitive observations. There is an urgent need for a quantitative framework for modelling conflicts and epidemics. We introduce a set of mathematical models to understand the role of conflicts in epidemics. Our mathematical framework has the potential to explain the counterintuitive observations and the complex role of human conflicts in epidemics. Our work suggests that aid and peacekeeping organizations should take an integrated approach that combines public health measures, socio-economic development, and peacekeeping in the conflict zone. Our approach exemplifies the role of non-linear thinking in complex systems like human societies. We view our work as a step towards a quantitative model of disease spread in conflicts.
Effect of Live Mulch Conservation Practices on Crop Yields: A Study of Sweet Potato in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Oshunsanya S. O. , Okoh G. E. , Amao P. A. , Aliku O. , Chukwuma E. A.
Published: July 2019

Live mulch can reduce land degradation by protecting the surface soil from direct impacts of rain drops and consequently increasing crop yields. To compare the potential biomass production of sweet potato for soil conservation, two farmlands with different degradation potentials were selected to plant ten commonly grown cultivars of sweet potato of Africa. Soil degradation rate (SDR) and vulnerability potential (Vp) of the two farms were also compared using selected soil properties as assessment tools. Results indicated that Farm A with higher total biomass slightly degraded with low vulnerability potential (SDR/Vp ≈ 2/4) while the Farm B with lower biomass severely degraded with high vulnerability potential (SDR/Vp ≈ 4/2). Correlation between biomass and yields was not significant for both the farms, indicating that biomass alone cannot determine the yields of sweet potato. On a slightly degraded soil, Benue, Akinima, TIS 87/0087 and Arrow tip cultivars had the highest tuber production (100 - 70)%, followed by Ex-Igbaraiam,  Eruwa, Shaba,  Ishiayi and TIS 8441 (69 - 50)% and least by Akwide (<50%). While on a severely degraded soil, Ex-Igbaraiam cultivar had the highest yield production (100 - 70) %, followed by Shaba, TIS 87/0087, Benue and TIS 8441 (69 - 50)% and least by Akwide, Eruwa, Ishiayi, Akinima and Arrow tip (<50%). The trend of the result reflects the ability of potato cultivars to cope with degraded soils. In terms of biomass production, TIS 87/0087, Ex-Igbaraiam, TIS 8441 and Benue were highest followed by Shaba and Akwide and least by Arrow-tip and Ishiayi. The results indicates that TIS 87/0087 cultivar can perform well under severely degraded soil while Ex-Igbaraiam and TIS 8441 with high biomass potential are better used as folders especially on a degraded soil.
Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FT-IR) Characterization of Plant Oils from Selected Cultivars Grown in Nigeria
Authors: Warra A. A. , Babatola L. J. , Hassan L. G. , Prasad M. N. V. , Odutuga A. A. , Omodolapo A. A.
Published: July 2019

Background and Objectives: The developments of fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic instrumentation, and application, over the years has made it a powerful analytical tool in the study of oils and fats. This work has explored fourier transform Infra-Red for characterization of plant oils from selected cultivars grown in Nigeria. The selection of these plants oils that flourishes in Nigeria aside their used primarily for nutritional applications, is dependent on the fatty acid (FA) composition of triacylglycerol (TAG which make them potential for bioenergy and biofiuel production considering the explosion of energy demand through alternative energy sources. They are also needed for the preparations of chemical feedstocks, biopolymer and composites, skin care products. Oils from these plants can provide renewable sources of high-value fatty acids for both the chemical and health-related industries. We report here several areas where these plant oils can have a significant impact on the emerging bioeconomy.

Materials and Methods: The samples were each placed in contact with KBr disc and FT-IR spectra were collected in frequency 4500-400 cm-1 by coadding 32 scans and at resolution of 4 cm-1. All spectra were rationed against a background spectrum. In each scan, a new reference background spectrum was detected.

Results: The spectra of oils of the present investigation revealed the following bands 1522, 1449.55, 1364.68, 1444.73, 1364.68, 1445.09, 1369.50, 1447.62, 1362.75, 1449.55, 1371.43, 1447.62, 1366.54, 1447.62, 1450.5, 1360.82, 1370.47, 1446.66, 1246.06, 1364.47, 1448.59 for Adansonia digitata, Ricinus communis, Sesamum indicum, Jatropha curcas, Allium cepa, Cucumis melo, Lannea microcarpa, Lagenaria vulgaris and Sesamun indicum seed oil respectively. 1450 cm-1- 1444 is related to bending vibration of CH2, and CH3; (cis =C–H bending) and at 1360 - 1370 cm-1 is concerned with the bending vibrations CH2 groups which showed total unsaturation. The results obtained shows that all the oils are unsaturated because there is no band around 3005- 3009 which is the band that normally determine the index of degree of unsaturation.

Conclusion: The FT- IR spectroscopy proved to be an important technique for identification, analysis, determination of degree of saturation of fatty acids in oils suitable for industrial applications.
Anticancer and Molecular Docking Studies of 1-(5-substituted phenyl) isoxazol-3-yl)-5-phenyl-1H-tetrazoles
Authors: Kaushik N. , Kumar N. , Kumar A. , Kumar S. , Chaudhary B. K.
Published: July 2019

Cancer a leading cause of human mortality worldwide is characterised by the unseemly growth of cellular mass and signalled through the enlargement of stress.  Management of cancer treatment is still buried and has been recently alerting the need to discover a drug molecule with lesser side effects. The objective of the present study is to explore the anticancer activity and docking studies of 1-(5-substituted phenyl) isoxazol-3-yl)-5-phenyl-1H-tetrazole derivatives. The compounds were evaluated for in-vitro anticancer activity under the drug discovery program of National Cancer Institute (NCI), USA. Only seven compounds were selected and screened for anticancer activity at a single high dose (10-5 M) using NCI 60 cancer cell lines. Among all the selected compounds, 4b and 4i exhibited significant anticancer activity against Leukemia cell lines. Molecular docking studies for the 5-phenyl-1-(5-substituted phenylisoxazol-3-yl)-1H-tetrazole analogues was done by Schrodinger software. Docking results stated that the compounds 4b and 4i has good dock score among the other derivatives which shows good binding efficiency towards receptor.
Serological Epidemiology of Foot-and-mouth Disease among Sedentary Mixed-species Herds in Adamawa Region, Cameroon
Authors: Sevidzem Silas Lendzele , Mamoudou Abdoulmoumini , Mavoungou Jacques François , Dalida Ikoum , Bouba Mohammadou , Lebale Oumarou , Dermy Hiol Victor , Nguema Rodrigue Mintsa , Roland Zinga-Koumba Christophe , Lydie Acapovi-Yao Genevieve , Dickmu Simon , Rebecca Garabed
Published: July 2019

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an economically important viral disease of domestic animals and wildlife. High circulation occurs during outbreaks but little is known about the current transmission dynamics in sedentary cattle and sheep herds. To investigate on this, samples from cattle and sheep located in the Vina Division of the Adamawa region of Cameroon, during FMD outbreaks were collected. Non-Structural Protein (NSP) and antigen detecting/serotyping FMD ELISAs were used for sample screening. The NSP serological data of cattle was used to estimate transmission parameters in catalytic and reverse catalytic models. The Akaike’s Information Criteria (AIC) revealed the reverse catalytic model as the most parsimonious for the NSP serological data and was used to estimate the force of infection (FOI), the rate of waning immunity and to estimate historic periods of sustained transmission. Four serological types of FMD notably O, A, SAT 1 and SAT 2 were identified from cattle vesicular epithelia tissues. Seroprevalence findings revealed 65.14% and 15.71% FMDV antibodies in cattle and sheep respectively with highest prevalence in both populations occurring in Mbidjoro. The FOI (λ) in sedentary herds was constant; the rate of waning immunity (ω) was 0.32 meaning cattle are generally immune for 3.12 years post natural infection. The reproductive number (Rt) was 7.33, meaning approximately 87% of cattle always need to be effectively immunized to prevent outbreaks. Therefore, FMD circulates in sedentary cattle and sheep populations in the study area with four serological types detected in cattle.
Commissioning and implementation of a pencil‐beam algorithm with a Lorentz correction as a secondary dose calculation algorithm for an Elekta Unity 1.5T MR linear accelerator
Authors: Taneja Sameer , Wang Hesheng , Barbee David L. , Galavis Paulina , Sosa Mario Serrano , Byun David , Zelefsky Michael , Chen Ting
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To commission a beam model in ClearCalc (Radformation Inc.) for use as a secondary dose calculation algorithm and to implement its use into an adaptive workflow for an MR‐linear accelerator.

Methods

A beam model was developed using commissioning data for an Elekta Unity MR‐linear accelerator and entered into ClearCalc. The beam model consisted of absolute dose calculation settings, output factors, percent depth‐dose (PDD) curves, mutli‐leaf collimator (MLC) transmission and dose leaf gap error, and cryostat corrections. Beam profiles were hard‐coded by the manufacturer into the beam model and were compared with Monaco‐derived profiles. The beam model was tested by comparing point doses in a homogenous phantom obtained through measurements using an ionization chamber in water, Monaco, and ClearCalc for various field sizes, source‐surface distances (SSDs), and point locations. Additional testing including point dose verification for test plans using a heterogeneous phantom and patient plans. Post clinical implementation, performance of ClearCalc was evaluated for the first 41 patients treated, which included 215 adaptive plans.

Results

PDDs generated using ClearCalc fell within 1.2% of measurements. Field profile comparison between ClearCalc and Monaco showed an average pass rate of 98% using a 3%/3 mm gamma criteria. Measured cryostat corrections used in the beam model showed a maximum deviation from unity of 1.4%. Point dose and field monitor units (MUs) comparisons in a homogenous phantom (N = 22), heterogeneous phantoms (N = 22), and patient plans (N = 57) all passed with a threshold of 5%/5MU. Clinically, ClearCalc was implemented as a physics check post adaptive planning completed prior to beam delivery. Point dose and field MUs showed good agreement at a 5%/5MU threshold for prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), pelvic lymph nodes, rectum, and prostate and lymph node plans.

Discussion

This work demonstrated commissioning and clinical implementation of ClearCalc into an adaptive planning workflow. No primary or adaptive plan failures were reported with proper beam model testing.
Laser interstitial thermal therapy in the management of bottom‐of‐sulcus dysplasia‐related epilepsy
Authors: Yang Bowen , Zhang Chao , Wang Xiu , Zhao Baotian , Mo Jiajie , Luo Weiyuan , Shao Xiaoqiu , Zhang Jianguo , Zhang Kai , Hu Wenhan
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of magnetic resonance‐guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRgLITT) versus open surgery (OS) for the treatment of patients with bottom‐of‐sulcus dysplasia (BOSD)‐related epilepsy.

Methods

Twenty‐two patients underwent MRgLITT, while 39 underwent OS. Postoperative seizure‐free rates were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves. The removal ratio, which represents the extent of damage, was calculated based on preoperative lesion volume and postoperative removal volume. Other outcomes, including adverse events, operative time, and hospital stay, were also compared.

Results

Kaplan–Meier curves indicated the seizure‐free rates were comparable between the MRgLITT group (90.9%, 26.5 [23.0, 35.1] months) and OS group (89.7%, 25.2 [16.2, 34.6] months) at the final follow‐up (p = 0.901, log‐rank test). The removal ratio of MRgLITT (1.3 [1.1, 1.7]) was significantly lower (p = 0.007) than that of OS (5.8 [3.6, 8.5]). A comparison of postoperative neurological deficits, infection rates, and fever rates revealed no significant differences between MRgLITT and OS groups. The operative time (hours) of MRgLITT (3.0, [2.1, 4.9]) was significantly shorter (p = 0.007) than that of OS (3.5 [3.0, 4.5]). The hospital stay (days) after MRgLITT (6 [5.0, 7.5]) was significantly shorter (p < 0.001) than that of OS (11.0 [9.0, 13.5]).

Interpretation

MRgLITT has advantages over OS, including comparable seizure control and adverse event profiles, along with reduced removal ratios, shorter operative time, and shorter hospital stays.
Electrochemical Reactivity and Stability of the Fe Electrode in Alkaline Electrolyte
Authors: Tan Shu Fen , Wu Hanglong , Manser Joseph S. , Zhang Duhan , Ronchi Maria , Smullin Sylvia , Chiang Yet‐Ming , Ross Frances M.
Published: December 2024

Fe anodes are emerging as cost‐effective components in long duration storage applications, with a benefit being the high natural abundance of Fe. Additive and electrode design have advanced the performance of Fe electrodes, but a more precise understanding of the electrode formation process and failure mechanisms is important for continued optimization. These interfacial electrochemical processes, which involve short‐lived intermediate species, require analysis with high spatial and temporal resolution to provide a full picture. This study therefore explores the behavior of the Fe electrode in alkaline electrolyte using electrochemical liquid cell transmission electron microscopy, extending the technique toward high pH (10–13) conditions. By combining identical location imaging and diffraction, in situ imaging, and benchtop experiments, this study shows distinct microstructural changes on cycling as a function of pH, in particular the appearance of multiple electrodeposited Fe species and a passivation layer. The dependence on electrochemical parameters is discussed, showing that the observations can be related to stability predictions from the Pourbaix diagram. However, it is also necessary to consider kinetic effects, such as the solubility and diffusion of soluble species. Strategies to control these material transformations are discussed as a function of potential, along with opportunities for further optimizing the Fe electrode.
Lysosomal Membrane‐Biomimetic Metal‐Organic Framework Potentiates Autophagy/Epigenetic‐Mediated Anti‐Tumor Immunity
Authors: Wang Yiqiao , Wang Zhihua , Han Mingda , Miao Qiannan , Shao Bingru , Wang Ning , Wang Jingying , Li Xiuan , Yan Fei , Feng Shouhua
Published: December 2024

The loss of major histocompatibility complex I (MHC‐I) in leukemia cells limits their recognition by T cells, leading to leukemia relapse and resistance to immunotherapy. MHC‐I molecules are often degraded by an autophagy‐dependent mechanism and are still considered “undruggable”. Herein, a lysosomal membranes‐based biomimetic metal‐organic framework (MOF) nanoplatforms (PFMALM) is reported. PFMALM is developed by coating a histone deacetylase inhibitor‐loaded MIL‐53(Fe) with lysosomal and leukemia cell membranes derived from the primary tissue. PFMALM is selectively taken up by the leukemia cells following targeted delivery to the leukemia microenvironment on account of the homing affinity of the leukemia cell membrane. Most importantly, PFMALM can not only upregulate MHC‐I transcripts via hyperacetylating histone H3 but also increase surface MHC‐I expression by protecting the MHC‐I from autophagy‐dependent lysosomal degradation. In addition, PFMALM increased global m6A RNA modification, leading to the transcriptional repression of the programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1). The increase in surface MHC‐I and reduction in PD‐L1 synergistically enhanced the recognition and clearance of leukemic cells by the cytotoxic T cells. PFMALM also exhibited a broad anti‐tumor activity in mouse models of leukemia, multiple myeloma, and breast cancer. This study provides proof‐of‐concept of a lysosomal‐based biomimetic nanoplatform as a novel epigenetic drug for broad‐spectrum anti‐tumor immunity.
3D Nanofabrication via Directed Material Assembly: Mechanism, Method, and Future
Authors: Gu Songyun , Chen Bingxu , Xu Xiayi , Han Fei , Chen Shih‐Chi
Published: December 2024

Fabrication of complex three‐dimensional (3D) structures at nanoscale is the core of nanotechnology, as it enables the creation of various micro‐/nano‐devices such as micro‐robots, metamaterials, sensors, photonic devices, etc. Among most 3D nanofabrication strategies, the guided material assembly, an efficient bottom‐up approach capable of directly constructing designed structures from precise integration of material building blocks, possesses compelling advantages in diverse material compatibility, sufficient driving forces, facile processing steps, and nanoscale resolution. In this review, we focus on assembly‐based fabrication methods capable of creating complex 3D nanostructures (instead of periodic or 2.5D‐only structures). Recent advances are classified based on the different assembly mechanisms, i.e., assembly driven by chemical reactions, physical interactions, and the synergy of multiple microscopic interactions. The design principles of representative fabrication strategies with an emphasis on their respective advantages, e.g., structural design flexibility, material compatibility, resolution, or applications are analyzed. In the summary and outlook, existing challenges, as well as possible paths to solutions for future development are reviewed. We believe that with recent advances in assembly‐based nanofabrication strategies, 3D nanofabrication has achieved tremendous progress in resolution, material generality, and manufacturing cost, for it to make a greater impact in the near future.
Army Ant Nest Inspired Adaptive Textile for Smart Thermal Regulation and Healthcare Monitoring
Authors: Chow Lung , Zhang Qiang , Huang Xingcan , Zhang Jun , Zhou Jingkun , Zhu Bo , Li Jiyu , Huang Ya , Zhang Binbin , Li Jian , Wu Pengcheng , Gao Yuyu , Gao Zhan , Zhao Guangyao , Yao Kuanming , Liu Yiming , Yip Joanne , Yang Zhihui , Yu Xinge
Published: December 2024

A textile material that can dynamically adapt to different environments while serving as an immediate alert system for early detection of life‐threatening factors in the surroundings, not only enhances the individual's health management but also contributes to a reduction in energy consumption for space cooling and/or heating. In nature, different species have their own adaptation system to ambient temperature. Inspired by the army ant nest, herein a thermal adaptive textile known as Army ant Nest Textile (ANT) for thermal management and health monitoring is reported. This textile can promptly respond to perspiration, rapidly absorb sweat, and then transform its architecture to facilitate heat dissipation. Simultaneously, the colorimetric sensing function of ANT allows it to emulate the “site migration” behavior of the army ant nest, which empowers individuals to expeditiously identify multiple health‐related signals such as body temperature, UV radiation, and sweat pH values, and warn them to move to a secure environment, thereby effectively reducing the likelihood of physical harm. Together with its excellent scalability and biocompatibility, the ANT offers a promising direction for the development of next‐generation smart e‐textiles for personal thermal and healthcare management, while satisfying the growing demand for energy saving.
Triphenylamine‐Based Conjugated Microporous Polymers as the Next Generation Organic Cathode Materials
Authors: Amin Kamran , Baker Benjamin C. , Pan Long , Mehmood Warisha , Hao Zhang , Nawaz Raziq , Wei Zhixiang , Faul Charl F. J.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a study on a novel porous polymer based on triphenylamine (LPCMP) as an excellent cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries. Through structural design and a scalable post‐synthesis approach, improvements in intrinsic conductivity, practical capacity, and redox potential in an organic cathode material is reported. The designed cathode achieves a notable capacity of 146 mAh g⁻¹ with an average potential of 3.6 V, using 70% active material content in the electrode. Additionally, through appropriate structural design, the capacity can increase to 160 mAh g−1. Even at a high current density of 20 A g⁻¹ (360C), the cathode maintains a capacity of 74 mAh g⁻¹, enabling full charge within 10 s. A high specific energy density of 569 Wh kg⁻¹ (at 0.1 A g⁻¹) is combined with a very high power density of 94.5 kW kg⁻¹ (at 20 A g⁻¹ corresponding to a specific energy density of 263 Wh kg⁻¹) surpassing the power density of graphene‐based supercapacitors. It exhibits highly stable cyclic performance across various current densities, retaining almost 95% of its initial capacity after 1000 cycles at 5.5C. This work presents a significant breakthrough in developing high‐capacity, high‐potential organic materials for sustainable, high‐energy, and high‐power lithium‐ion batteries.
A Metal–Polyphenol‐Based Antidepressant for Alleviating Colitis‐Associated Mental Disorders
Authors: Wang Zihao , Wang Zi‐Xi , Xu Ke‐Fei , An Yaolong , Cui Macheng , Zhang Xinping , Tian Linan , Li Chengcheng , Wu Fu‐Gen
Published: December 2024

Emerging evidence suggests that patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are predisposed to psychosocial disturbances, such as depression and anxiety. Regrettably, clinical antidepressants exhibit unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy in IBD‐associated psychosocial disturbances, primarily attributed to the inherent intestinal disorders and intricate bidirectional relationship between the gut and the brain. Herein, we report a metal–polyphenol‐based antidepressant to alleviate mental disorders in dextran sulfate sodium‐induced experimental acute colitis mice via modulating the microbiota–gut–brain axis. The antidepressant, termed CSMTC, comprises a core of melittin‐encapsulated natural antioxidant enzymes (i.e., catalase and superoxide dismutase) and a protective shell composed of tannic acid–cerium ion network. Upon oral administration to colitis mice, CSMTC can effectively restore colonic redox balance, reinforce the intestinal barrier, modulate gut microbiota composition, maintain the blood–brain barrier integrity, and regulate systemic immune responses. Notably, behavioral test results reveal that CSMTC significantly alleviates the colitis‐associated mental disorder (e.g., depression‐like behavior) via the microbiota–gut–brain axis by reducing neuroinflammation, enhancing hippocampal neural plasticity, modulating hippocampal immune responses, and restoring neurotransmitter homeostasis. This work may have implications for the development of new nanodrugs for treating inflammation‐associated complications.