bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the Dexamethasone and the Difenihidramiana on the Degranulation of the Eosinophilic Granular Cell of Tilapia
Authors: Romano Luis Alberto , Pedrosa Virgínia Fonseca
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between EGC degranulation in fish injected with formalin-killed Escherichia coli and the effect of dexamethasone, diphenhydramine supplied separately and before formalin-killed E. coli. We performed a quantitative analysis of the number of cell granules and demonstrated that: compared to the EGCs of animals, the injection of dead E. coli with formalin generated degranulation of the EGC, while the administration of dexamethasone alone did not show significant differences with control group animals. The administration of diphenhydramine alone did not show significant differences neither with the animals of the dexamethasone treated group nor with those of the control group. When dexamethasone was administered one hour before the E. coli injection, degranulation was apparently inhibited and the number of granules did not show significant differences either with the animals in the control group or with those treated with dexamethasone. Finally, when this group was compared with the group of animals that were only injected with E. coli, the differences were statistically significant. However, when diphenhydramine was administered one hour before E. coli injection, a critical inhibition of EGC degranulation was evidenced, with a marked increase in the number of granules. All this seems to show that dexamethasone can partially inhibit the release of substances that participate in the inflammatory process. Diphenhydramine, a recognized antihistamine, inhibited degranulation of EGCs. These results suggest that EGC can release histamine like mammalian mast cells.
The Language of the Art of Music: An Overview of Its History in Brazil
Authors: Souza Alberto Carlos de
Published: May 2021

This study sought to re-visit the two conceptions of Art – pedagogical and reflective - forged throughout history and its relationship with the Brazilian aesthetic thought of resistance. From the 60's, such thinking has given a pedagogical purpose to art, charged with the task of social criticism and political engagement human emancipatory: In this scenario mainly determined by the Theater of the Oppressed, the new movies  and the protest song by Milton Nascimento, Caetano Veloso, Chico Buarque, Gilberto Gil,  among many others.
Impact of Constraints, Technological Gaps and Improved Production Practices on Yield and Economics of Greengram in Arid Regions
Authors: Singh Raj , Prakash Om , Kumar Shalander , Kumar Mahesh
Published: May 2021

Low adoption of improved crop production technologies has been an important factor in reducing the income, increasing poverty and reducing socio-economic status of the farmers in the arid region. Greengram is one of the important pulse crop mainly grown during kharif season in rainfed conditions of Rajasthan. Apart from harsh agro-climatic and poor edaphic factors, non- adoption of innovative production technologies is one of the utmost important amenable factors for low yield in the region. Over a period of time, a number of improved crop production technologies have been developed, but due to many constraints and low adoption, full potential of the technologies could not be exploited. As a result, a large gap exists between potential yield and actual yield. There is a need to address various issues and factors, which helps to limit the crop productivity. The present study conducted at the farmer’s field in Jodhpur district of Rajasthan indicated that most of the respondents stated that low returns from crop production, high cost of inputs, lack of knowledge and processing industry were the major constraints and technological index varied between 44 to 48%. The results of the study also showed gaps in the use of high-yielding varieties, recommended doses of fertilizers and plant protection measures in greengram. Demonstration of high yielding varieties of greengram (RMG 62 and RMG 268), recommended dose of fertilizers (20 kg N+50 kg P2O5/ha) and plant protection measures (metasystox 750 ml/ha) considerably increased seed yield, net returns, B: C ratio and additionally income over farmer’s practice. Use of high yielding variety (RMG 62), recommended dose of fertilizers and plant protection measures increased seed yield and net returns by 42.5 and 63.8%, respectively over farmer’s practice. The study suggests that addressing the socio-economic issues and constraints that affect the adoption of improved production technologies are paramount. In addition, there is a need for knowledge extension of better production technologies to achieve higher yield and economic returns by greengram cultivation in the arid region.
Occupational Aspiration of Undergraduate Agricultural Students of Kerala Agricultural University- A Multidimensional Analysis
Authors: Vinodkumar Bheemanpalli , Seema B.
Published: May 2021

The study titled ‘Occupational aspiration of undergraduate agricultural students of Kerala Agricultural University- A multidimensional analysis’ was undertaken during 2017 - 19. The objectives of the study was to study and compare the occupational aspirations of the male and female undergraduate students of agriculture and also to categorise and compare the male and female undergraduate agricultural students based on the level of occupational aspiration. The study analyses both idealistic and realistic occupational aspirations of the undergraduate agricultural students by considering the concept of long and short range for goal period expression. The study also categorises the students based on their level of occupational aspiration by following the procedure adopted by National Opinion Research Centre (NORC) and Ajit [1] in developing level of aspiration scale. The occupational prestige rating scale establishes level of occupational prestige as viewed in India as well as determines the weighted score for each of the occupation. The sample of the study comprised of 120 third year and final year students i.e., 60 students from College of Agriculture (COA), Vellayani, 35 students from College of Horticulture (COH), Vellanikkara and 25 students from College of Agriculture (COAP), Padannakkad were selected based on proportionate random sampling method. The results on occupational aspiration of the students revealed that more than half (56.65%) of the undergraduate students in agriculture belonged to the category of high level of occupational aspiration.  Getting the state/ central government job (67.5%) and entering into administrative sector jobs through PSC’s (48.3%) were the realistic occupational aspirations of majority of the students. Becoming Agricultural scientist in central/ state government (45.85%) and cracking civil services (36.66%) were the idealistic occupational aspirations of the majority of the students. It was also observed that irrespective of the gender and college of study, the students’ level of occupational aspirations remained same.
Influence of Organic Manures and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Fodder Maize (Zea mays L.) Grown in North Eastern Zone of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Ananthi T. , Vennila C.
Published: May 2021

Experiments were conducted during rabi season of 2019 and 2020 at the Department of Agronomy, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai to assess the performance of fodder maize (Zea mays L.) under varying combinations of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers. An experiment was laid out in split plot design with four organic treatments in main-plots viz., No manure, farm yard  manure (25 t/ha), vermicompost (12 t/ ha),  poultry manure (12 t /ha) and four fertilizer treatments in subplots with levels of No fertilizer, 125% RDF, 100% RDF, 75% RDF.  Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) for fodder maize crop is 60 kg N ha-1: 40 kg P2O5 ha-1: 20 kg K2O ha-1. The organic manures were applied as per the N equivalent basis to inorganic nutrient recommendation. The results revealed that all the maize growth parameters, green and dry fodder yield were significantly affected with the application of organic manures and fertilizer levels. Growth parameters viz., taller plants, more number of leaves per plant, higher leaf area index, stem girth, leaf stem ratio were observed under the combined application of poultry manure @ 12 t/ha  and fertilizer level of 75% RDF. The highest green matter yield and dry fodder yield were recorded with the integrated application of poultry manure @ 12 t/ ha along with the fertilizer level of 75 % RDF.
Quantifying the Nitrogen Requirement of Castor Cultivars in Post Monsoon Season on Alfisols
Authors: Ramanjaneyulu A. V. , Reddy A. Vishnu Vardhan , Kumar M. V. Nagesh
Published: May 2021

Aim: The experiment is aimed at quantifying the nitrogen requirement and identifying suitable hybrids and varieties of castor to be grown during post monsoon season on Alfisols in          Telangana

Study Design: Split plot design.

Place and Duration of Study: Regional Agricultural Research Station, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Palem, Telangana state, India during post monsoon season of 2010-11 and 2011-12.

Methodology: The study consisted of four N levels (0, 40, 80 kg and 120 kg N ha-1) in main plots and five cultivars (DCH-177, PCH-111, GCH-4, Haritha and 48-1)in sub plots. The growth parameters, yield attributes, seed yield, water use efficiency, economic returns, correlation and regression were studied.

Results: The pooled data indicated that significantly taller plants with more no. of branchesplant-1, longer and effective spikes thus seed yield of castor were observed due to application of 80 kg Nha-1 and 120 kg Nha-1. However, application of 120 kg N ha-1 resulted in greater net returns (USD 1049 ha-1) and also returns per rupee invested (1.66). The results further showed that the castor hybrids PCH-111 (1900 kg/ha) and DCH-177 (1809 kg/ha) produced similar yield, but, both significantly outyielded over other cultivars. The performance of hybrids was superior to the varieties. A highly significant positive correlation was observed for seed yield with no. of branches/plant, total and effective spike length.

Conclusion: The cultivation of castor hybrids either PCH-111 or DCH-177 under N supply of 120 kg N ha-1 would help to realize higher yields, water use efficiency and income from post monsoon season castor on Alfisols.
The Potential of Soilless Culture Systems in Producing Tomato and Cucumber under Greenhouse Conditions
Authors: Abul-Soud M. A. , Emam M. S. A. , Hawash A. M. H.
Published: May 2021

Aims: Assess The sustainable production of tomato and cucumber under greenhouse conditions for meeting the challenges of natural resources shortage, food security and economic.

Study Design:  Two experiments performed in complete randomized blocks with three replicates.

Place and Duration of Study: Central Laboratory for Agriculture Climate (CLAC), Agriculture Research Center, Egypt, during two autumn seasons of 2018 and 2019 (tomato) and two spring seasons of 2019 and 2020 (cucumber).

Methodology: Different soilless culture systems for producing tomato and cucumber under greenhouse were investigated: Hydroponic systems (Nutrient film technique (NFT) and deep flow technique (DFT)); and substrate systems (Dutch bucket, pot, container, and horizontal bag). Vegetative characteristics, yield parameters, N, P, and K contents, and environmental impact assessment were measured.   

Results: Substrate systems gave the highest vegetative growth characteristics, yield parameters, N, P and K contents of tomato and cucumber leaves, as well as the highest power use efficiencies compared to hydroponic systems. Container and bags systems gave the highest results of tomato and cucumber vegetative growth, respectively, but the highest yield and net profits records belonged to bags and pots respectively.  Bags substrate system gave the highest net profit yield (10.1Kg/ plant and  21881 LE / greenhouse) of tomato plant under plastic house followed by container system that presented the highest yield (10.6 Kg/ plant) but the total cost mainly substrate cost contributed to reduce its net profit yield. While for the highest yield and net profit of cucumber, the pots system (8.1Kg/ plant and  13243 LE / greenhouse) followed container system (7.65Kg/ plant and  9045 LE / greenhouse) and bags system (7.15Kg/ plant and  10270 LE / greenhouse) were recommended. The lowest yield, the highest average power use, cost and efficiency and lowest total cost were estimated by NFT system in both of tomato and cucumber investigations.

Conclusion: The substrate systems presented more sustainability for tomato and cucumber production under plastichouse conditions. Bags substrate system gave the highest net profit yield of tomato plant under plastic house followed by container system that presented the highest yield but the total cost mainly substrate cost contributed to reduce its net profit yield. While for the highest yield and net profit of cucumber, the pots system followed container system and bags system  were recommended. The lowest yield, the highest average power use, cost and efficiency and lowest total cost were estimated by NFT system in both of tomato and cucumber investigations.
School Climate and Work from Home Challenges of Teachers during the COVID 19 Pandemic in Secondary Schools in the Division of Zambales, Philippines
Authors: Mandapat Alvin M. , Farin Elizabeth N.
Published: May 2021

This research aimed to determine the school climate and work from home challenges among Secondary School teachers in selected secondary schools in Schools Division Zambales. The study made use of descriptive research design with the aid of questionnaires as the main instrument in gathering the data. The respondents were the two hundred eighty public secondary school teachers in selected secondary schools in Schools Division of Zambales. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis and statistical treatment of data. The findings of the study indicate that under pandemic, the school climate such as school and community engagement, teacher connections, structure of learning, physical environment, student peer relations and parental involvement and work from home were found challenging.  On the other hand, the work from home arrangements which  include  job related items and work responsibilities, professional development and promotional opportunities, recognition and work achievement, organizational policy and administration and technical supervision, working relations and compensation benefits, and physical working conditions and health issues were also found challenging.  Significant differences were found on the challenges on school climate and work from home arrangements.
Study of Naturally-derived Biomolecules as Therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 Viral Spike Protein
Authors: Khanal Pitambar , Chawla Udeep , Praveen Shagufta , Malik Zeenat , Malik Sheeba , Yusuf Mohd , Khan Shafat Ahmad , Sharma Munesh
Published: May 2021

The SARS-CoV2 virus, the causative agent for COVID-19 disease has to lead to more than 3.1 million deaths and crossed 146 million infections worldwide so far. Although vaccines development and emergency authorization has been approved by several governments, there has been great concern about its side effects for the long term and its effectiveness against new mutated strains. A resurgence of COVID-19 or related disease can be catastrophic. There is an urgent need to look for effective antiviral agents for many coronavirus strains with minimum side-effects, and maximum efficacy globally. Several, naturally-derived biomolecules have proved their excellent effect on several infectious diseases in a multi-mode fashion by targeting several pathways as well as increasing efficacy with high safety profile. Integrate computational prediction design was used in the study to examine the pharmacology of bioactive compounds of natural origin against SARS-CoV2 spike protein. Keeping these facts we have computationally examined 16 naturally occurring compounds using to evaluate their effectiveness against the SARS-CoV2 virus using the molecular docking technique. Hesperidin derivatives are known to ameliorate diabetes, co-morbidity for coronavirus, as well as help in preventing post coronavirus complications. We found the binding free energy of Hesperidin with spike protein to be -7.57 kcal/mol, the aglycone derivative to be -6.93 kcal/mol, hesperidin monoacetyl derivative to be -7.82 kcal/mol, and hesperidin pentaacetyl derivative to be -8.39 kcal/mol. Our findings revealed that acetylated derivatives of hesperidin showed significant improved remarked binding affinity while aglycone derivative hesperetin showed a decrease in binding affinity. Our studies give a new direction where natural bioactive compounds and their derivatives can be modulated and used after clinical trials to effectively inhibit coronavirus infection as well as diabetes simultaneously with a high safety profile.

 

Graphical Abstract
Treatment Response of Botulinum-A Toxin Intradetusor Injections for Overactive Bladder (OAB) and Neurological Detrusor Overactivity (NDO) Refractory to Anticholinergics and Beta3-Adrenoceptor Agonists
Authors: Memon Fouzia Rasool , Suhail Muhammad Ali , Jamali Anwar Ali , Matar Mohammad , Sial Sikander Ali , Rasool Shahzeb , Memon Umer Farooque , Ahmer Arslan
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Overactive bladder (OAB), defined as urinary urgency, usually accompanied by frequency and nocturia, with or without urgency urinary incontinence, in the absence of urinary tract infection or other obvious pathology.

Methods: A retrospective review of patients getting intradetrusor onabotulinumA injections for OAB and NDO over a 6-year time frame was conducted. The principal outcome measures involved patient’s subjective improvements in OAB and NDO symptoms and the duration of symptomatic relief following every treatment. The secondary results measured relation of patient’s age and duration of each effective treatment cycle.

Results: One hundred and thirty-Eight (138) consecutive patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. The average age of women was 59.43 years. Eighty four (61%) of participants were still receiving botox injections while 54 women stopped treatment. The average time period between botulinum A injection and its efficacy in controlling OAB symptoms varied from 3 -8.5 months. There was no decrease in efficacy of the treatment with more cycles of treatment. The average age of women who received one, two, three and four or more cycles were 61.7, 53.87, 63.03, and 56.75 years respectively, which showed with advanced age efficacy of botulinum toxin does not decrease.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that in patients who respond to intradetrusor botulinumA treatment, the duration of response does not decline with more treatment cycles, suggesting it as a safe long term treatment option for controlling OAB symptoms. Also there is no relation between advanced age and subsequent efficacy of botulinum A intradetrusor injections.
Reduced WNT5A signaling in melanoma cells favors an amoeboid mode of invasion
Authors: Jobe Njainday Pulo , Åsberg Lisa , Andersson Tommy
Published: May 2021

Tumor cells invade and spread via either a mesenchymal or an amoeboid mode of migration. Amoeboid tumor cells have a rounded morphology and pronounced RhoA activity. Here, we investigate how WNT5A signaling, a tumor promotor in melanoma, relates to Rho GTPase activity and amoeboid migration. We compared melanoma cells with low (HTB63 cells) and high (WM852 cells) WNT5A expression. HTB63 cells exhibited an amoeboid morphology and had higher RhoA activity but lower invasiveness than WM852 cells in a three‐dimensional (3D) collagen matrix. We next explored the relationships between WNT5A, morphology, and invasive behavior. WNT5A knockdown impaired Rho GTPase Cdc42 activity, resulting in reduced invasion of amoeboid and mesenchymal melanoma cells. Interestingly, knockdown of WNT5A or inhibition of its secretion in WM852 cells expressing wild‐type BRAF also led to increased RhoA activity via decreased RND3 expression, resulting in predominantly amoeboid morphology. In contrast, such treatments had the opposite effects on RND3 expression and RhoA activity in HTB63 cells expressing the active BRAFV600 mutation. However, treatment of HTB63 cells with a BRAF inhibitor made them respond to WNT5A knockdown in a similar manner as WM852 cells expressing wild‐type BRAF. We next found that dual targeting of WNT5A and RhoA more effectively reduced melanoma cell invasion than targeting either protein individually. Taken together, our results suggest that low WNT5A signaling in melanoma cells promotes a rounded amoeboid type of invasion, which quite likely serves as a compensatory response to decreased WNT5A/Cdc42‐driven invasion. This phenomenon partially explains the enduring melanoma cell invasion observed after impaired WNT5A signaling and has therapeutic implications. Our results suggest that dual targeting of WNT5A and RhoA signaling is a more effective strategy for controlling the invasion of BRAF wild‐type and BRAFV600 mutated melanomas treated with a BRAF inhibitor than targeting either of the proteins individually.
Lithium Directs Embryonic Stem Cell Differentiation Into Hemangioblast‐Like Cells
Authors: Mnatsakanyan Hayk , Salmeron‐Sanchez Manuel , Rico Patricia
Published: May 2021

Definitive hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) derive from specialized regions of the endothelium known as the hemogenic endothelium (HE) during embryonic developmental processes. This knowledge opens up new possibilities for designing new strategies to obtain HSCs in vitro from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). Previous advances in this field show that the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway plays a crucial role in PSC‐derived HSC formation. In this work, lithium, a GSK3 inhibitor, is identified as an element capable of stabilizing β‐catenin and inducing embryonic stem cells (ESCs) differentiation in hemangioblast‐like cells, highly consistent with the role of Wnt agonists on ESC differentiation. ESCs treated with 10 mm lithium express CD31+, SCA‐1+, Nkx2‐5+, CD34+, and FLK1+ cells characteristic of the hemangioblast cells that precede HE development. However, 10 mm Li treated cells remain arrested in a hemangioblast‐like phase, which switched into the expression of HE markers after stimulation with maturation medium. The ability of lithium‐treated ESCs to further derive into HE is confirmed after defined maturation, resulting in a rapid increase in cells positive for the HE markers RUNX1 and SOX17. The results represent a novel strategy for generating HSC precursors in vitro as a multipotent source of stem cells for blood disease therapies.
3D Printing of Monolithic Capillarity‐Driven Microfluidic Devices for Diagnostics
Authors: Achille Clement , Parra‐Cabrera Cesar , Dochy Ruben , Ordutowski Henry , Piovesan Agnese , Piron Pieter , Van Looy Lore , Kushwaha Shashwat , Reynaerts Dominiek , Verboven Pieter , Nicolaï Bart , Lammertyn Jeroen , Spasic Dragana , Ameloot Rob
Published: May 2021

Rapid diagnostic testing at the site of the patient is essential when a fully equipped laboratory is not accessible. To maximize the impact of this approach, low‐cost, disposable tests that require minimal user‐interference and external equipment are desired. Fluid transport by capillary wicking removes the need for bulky ancillary equipment to actuate and control fluid flow. Nevertheless, current microfluidic paper‐based analytical devices based on this principle struggle with the implementation of multistep diagnostic protocols because of fabrication‐related issues. Here, 3D‐printed microfluidic devices are demonstrated in a proof‐of‐concept enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in which a multistep assay timeline is completed by precisely engineering capillary wetting within printed porous bodies. 3D printing provides a scalable route to low‐cost microfluidic devices and obviates the assembly of discrete components. The resulting rapid and seamless transition between digital data and physical objects allows for rapid design iterations, and opens up perspectives on distributed manufacturing.
Recent Progress in the Consistent Interpretation of Complementary Spectroscopic Results Obtained on Molecular Systems
Authors: Forker Roman , Gruenewald Marco , Kirchhuebel Tino , Fritz Torsten
Published: May 2021

Research on organic thin films is largely driven by potential (opto‐)electronic applications and turns out to be no less intriguing from a fundamental point of view. Numerous studies make it clear that the understanding of device‐relevant molecular thin film architectures is quite challenging—often hampered by insufficient spectroscopic data and the lack of a consistent interpretation of the available datasets. Consequently, speculative aspects prevail in the discussion of energy levels in conjunction with the optical properties of organic thin films. Adequate spectroscopic techniques applicable to thin films of organic molecules (typical thicknesses required for devices are in the nanometer range) with the necessary sensitivities are rather demanding. Some of those methods were developed or significantly improved in the recent past. Here, the now available complementary spectroscopies are briefly surveyed with particular emphasis on some techniques that have not yet become widespread standards, and a non‐exhaustive set of examples of acquired experimental results are provided. For a consistent interpretation of the latter, the concepts brought forward in the literature considering the role of initial and final states of spectroscopic processes are outlined, with important consequences for quantitatively correct energy diagrams.
Reversible and Irreversible Thermochromism in Copper‐Based Halide Perovskites
Authors: Pareja‐Rivera Carina , Solis‐Ibarra Diego
Published: May 2021

Copper‐based layered perovskites have shown abundant phase transitions and thermochromic behaviors. However, there are very few cases of perovskites with irreversible transitions. Here, the thermochromic behavior of two perovskites (CEA)2CuCl4 and (BEA)2CuCl4 is discussed, where CEA = 2‐chloroethylammonium and BEA = 2‐bromoethylammonium, the latter of which is reported for the first time. These materials exhibit a reversible and irreversible thermochromic behavior determined by the nature of the organic cation. Using nuclear magnetic resonance, X‐ray diffraction, and optical absorption, it was possible to investigate the mechanism for this transition: a topochemical exchange reaction between the organic and inorganic halides in (BEA)2CuCl4 to yield the mixed‐halide perovskite (BEA)1.1(CEA)0.9CuCl3.1Br0.9. These materials and the fundamental principles shown herein have potential use as low‐cost irreversible thermochromic sensors and their design.
Single‐Band Ratiometric Luminescent Thermometry Using Pr3+ Ions Emitting in Yellow and Red Spectral Ranges
Authors: Stefanska Joanna , Marciniak Lukasz
Published: May 2021

The possibility of using Pr3+ ions to develop multicolor‐emission‐based luminescence thermometry in a single‐band‐ratiometric configuration is investigated for the first time. The thermally induced decrease in intensities of 3P0 → 3F2 and 1D2 → 3H4 emission bands is demonstrated using the excitation matching the ground‐state absorption, and an inverse relation is obtained using the optical excitation matching the excited‐state absorption. The strategy of modulation of the thermometric properties of the Pr3+‐based red‐ and yellow‐emitting single‐band ratiometric (SBR) luminescent thermometers by the activation of the cross‐relaxation (CR) phenomenon promoted by the dopant concentration is elaborated. Contrary to expectations, the {3P0,3H4} ↔ {1D2, 3H6} CR process is shown to cause the high and low dopant concentrations to be optimal for highly sensitive SBR luminescent thermometers operating in the red and yellow spectral ranges, respectively. In both cases, high relative sensitivities of the temperature readout are obtained. These results make Pr3+ ions promising candidates for a SBR thermometry approach.
Performance of superior potato clones under high and mild temperatures in tropical climate
Authors: Patiño‐Torres Albania José , Andrade Mario Henrique Murad Leite , Guedes Márcio Lisboa , Cavallin Isabella Cristina , Pinto César Augusto Brasil Pereira , de Souza João Cândido , Marçal Tiago de Souza
Published: May 2021

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a cool weather crop and one of the most important vegetables in the world, which is cultivated in temperate, subtropical, and tropical climates. Nearly all cultivated areas in Brazil use cultivars from temperate countries, resulting in lower performances particularly due to higher temperatures. The aim of this study was to identify clones that yielded better than foreign cultivars, both under high and mild temperature conditions. The study assessed 57 clones from the potato breeding program of the Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA), Brazil, and five check cultivars (Agata, Asterix, Atlantic, Cupido, and Markies). We evaluated the agronomic performance using the total and marketable tuber yield, dry matter content (DM), season length, and external tuber quality, in four experiments designing in a random complete block, during the seasons 2014 and 2015. The genotypes' stability, as well as the discrimination between environments, was performed using the GGE‐Biplot method. Twenty heat‐tolerant clones responded favorably to mild temperatures. This breeding program has generated clones more productive and better looking than commercial cultivars, for the different market segments: two for the fresh market (GMR 17‐40; GMR 12‐10), four for frozen French fries (CBM 07‐78; CTB 03‐02; GMR 15‐42; SR2 35‐05) and seven for potato chips (CBM 16‐16; SR1 07‐16; GMR 03‐58; SR3 19‐24; SR2 57‐02; SR1 04‐06; SR3 32‐04).
SATB2‐associated syndrome in adolescents and adults
Authors: Zarate Yuri A. , Bosanko Katherine A. , Caffrey Aisling R.
Published: May 2021

The goal of this study was to investigate the medical, communication, activities of daily living (ADLs), and mental health concerns affecting adolescents and adults with SATB2‐associated syndrome (SAS). A comprehensive questionnaire was administered to the caregivers of 49 individuals 12 years or older with SAS (mean age was 19.4 years, range 12–37 years). For all individuals, medical records, including laboratory results, were reviewed. Most individuals required some degree of assistance for ADLs and none of the adults were able to live independently. Health status was qualified as excellent or very good in 61% of individuals. The most common medical problems were dental anomalies, with a significantly higher frequency of hypotonia and gastroesophageal reflux in younger individuals. Medical and surgical interventions were often required. Sixty‐nine percent (n = 33) of individuals spoke 10 or fewer words. Autism (41%), anxiety (37%), and attention deficit disorder (37%) were common with one third of individuals receiving medical treatments for these diagnoses. While medical and developmental problems in individuals with SAS were similar to those previously reported, many of these are persistent into adolescence and adulthood. This study provides better guidance for the challenges facing adults with SAS and their families.
Bioorthogonal Azide–Thioalkyne Cycloaddition Catalyzed by Photoactivatable Ruthenium(II) Complexes
Authors: Gutiérrez‐González Alejandro , Destito Paolo , Couceiro José R. , Pérez‐González Cibran , López Fernando , Mascareñas José L.
Published: May 2021

Tailored ruthenium sandwich complexes bearing photoresponsive arene ligands can efficiently promote azide–thioalkyne cycloaddition (RuAtAC) when irradiated with UV light. The reactions can be performed in a bioorthogonal manner in aqueous mixtures containing biological components. The strategy can also be applied for the selective modification of biopolymers, such as DNA or peptides. Importantly, this ruthenium‐based technology and the standard copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) proved to be compatible and mutually orthogonal.
Regulating Twisted Skeleton to Construct Organ‐Specific Perylene for Intensive Cancer Chemotherapy
Authors: Liu Zhonghua , Wang Xuejuan , Chen Qing , Ma Feiyan , Huang Yongwei , Gao Yijian , Deng Qingyuan , Qiao Zeng‐Ying , Xing Xiaoyi , Zhu Jianling , Lu Feng , Wang Hao
Published: May 2021

The systemic use of pharmaceutical drugs for cancer patients is a compromise between desirable therapy and side effects because of the intrinsic shortage of organ‐specific pharmaceutical drug. Design and construction of pharmaceutical drug to achieve the organ‐specific delivery is thus desperately desirable. We herein regulate perylene skeleton to effect organ‐specificity and present an example of lung‐specific distribution on the basis of bay‐twisted PDIC‐NC. We further demonstrate that PDIC‐NC can target into mitochondria to act as cellular respiration inhibitor, inducing insufficient production of adenosine triphosphate, promoting endogenous H2O2 and .OH burst, elevating calcium overload, efficiently triggering the synergistic apoptosis, autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress of lung cancer cells. The antitumor performance of PDIC‐NC is verified on in vivo xenografted, metastasis and orthotopic lung cancer, presenting overwhelming evidences for potentially clinical application. This study contributes a proof‐of‐concept demonstration of twisted perylene to well attain lung‐specific distribution, and meanwhile achieves intensive lung cancer chemotherapy.
Facile fabrication of tough and biocompatible hydrogels from polyvinyl alcohol and agarose
Authors: Sun Xinxin , Zhao Yufei , Li Hui , Luo Chunhui , Luo Faliang
Published: May 2021

A polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐agarose (agar) composite hydrogel (M‐PVA‐agar‐60) was developed by simple three cycles of freeze‐thawing, followed by successively soaking in ammonium sulfate aqueous solution to induce phase separation and dialyzing against deionized water to remove residual sulfate salts. Due to the synergy of crystalline regions, hydrogen bonding and phase separation domains, the obtained M‐PVA‐agar‐60 hydrogel exhibits excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength = 1.1 MPa, tensile strain = 324% and compressive stress = 12.5 MPa), combined with a high water content of 87.0%. Moreover, the hydrogel hardly expands after immersing in the phosphate‐buffered saline aqueous solution at 37°C for a week, and the tensile stress and toughness remain almost the same as their initial values, superior to most reported non‐swellable hydrogels. Because of the biocompatible starting materials, absence of toxic chemicals, and dialysis in advance to remove ammonium sulfate, the hydrogel also shows excellent cell compatibility, making it an ideal candidate for tissue engineering materials.
A review: X‐ray excited luminescence of gadolinium based optoelectronic phosphors
Authors: Mahakhode Jayant G. , Nande Amol , Dhoble Sanjay J.
Published: May 2021

X‐ray excited fluorescence tomography is an emerging field in the application of bio‐imaging and computer tomography. Some rare‐earth doped inorganic phosphors like gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3), yttrium oxide (Y2O3), zinc tungstate (ZnWO4), cesium fluoride (CsF), barium fluorochloride (BaFCl), lanthanum oxybromide (LaOBr) are shown outstanding applications for X‐ray excited phosphors. Gadolinium (Gd)‐based inorganic phosphors show extraordinary applications in the field of X‐ray chromatography and computer chromatography. In this review article, we discussed the general information about X‐ray excited luminescence (XEL) phosphor. Further, we discussed importance, synthesis, structural and photoluminescence (PL) properties of rare‐earth (Europium (Eu)) doped Gd2O3. To elaborate the scope of the review, we have discussed synthesis, structural and optical properties of lithium (Li) doped Gd2O3:Eu. At the end of the review, synthesis, structural and optical properties of Eu doped lutetium oxide (Lu2O3) have been discussed and the results compared with Eu doped Gd2O3. The comparison provided the understanding of structural and optical peak position of host and the dopant (Eu).
The emerging role of FTY720 as a sphingosine 1‐phosphate analog for the treatment of ischemic stroke: The cellular and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Naseh Maryam , Vatanparast Jafar , Rafati Ali , Bayat Mahnaz , Haghani Masoud
Published: May 2021

Finding novel and effective drugs for the treatment of ischemic stroke is warranted because there is not a definitive treatment for this prevalent disease. Due to the relevance between the sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) receptor and several neurological diseases including ischemic stroke, it seems that fingolimod (FTY720), as an agonist of S1P receptor, can be a useful therapeutic strategy in these patients. FTY720 is the first oral drug approved by the US food and drug administration for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Three important mechanisms for neuroprotective effects of FTY720 have been described. First, the functional antagonistic mechanism that is associated with lymphopenia and reduced lymphocytic inflammation. This effect results from the down‐regulation and degradation of lymphocytes' S1P receptors, which inhibits lymph node lymphocytes from entering the bloodstream. Second, a functional agonistic activity that is mediated through direct effects via targeting S1P receptors on the membrane of various cells including neurons, microglia, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and endothelial cells of blood vessels in the central nervous system (CNS), and the third, receptor‐independent mechanisms that are displayed by binding to specific cellular proteins that modulate intracellular signaling pathways or affect epigenetic transcriptions. Therefore, we review these mechanisms in more detail and describe the animal model and in clinical trial studies that support these three mechanisms for the neuroprotective action of FTY720 in ischemic stroke.
A bioinspired synthetic soft hydrogel for the treatment of dry eye
Authors: Yu Yu , Chow Derek Wai Yee , Lau Chi Ming Laurence , Zhou Guanqun , Back Woojin , Xu Jing , Carim Sean , Chau Ying
Published: May 2021

Natural soft hydrogels are unique elastic soft materials utilized by living organisms for protecting delicate tissues. Under a theoretical framework derived from the Blob model, we chemically crosslinked high molecular weight hyaluronic acid at a concentration close to its overlap concentration (c*), and created synthetic soft hydrogels that exhibited unique rheological properties similar to a natural soft hydrogel: being dominantly elastic under low shear stress while being viscous when the stress is above a small threshold. We explored a potential application of the hyaluronic acid‐based soft hydrogel as a long‐acting ocular surface lubricant and evaluated its therapeutic effects for dry eye. The soft hydrogel was found to be biocompatible after topical instillation on experimental animals' and companion dogs' eyes. In a canine clinical study, twice‐a‐day ocular instillation of the soft hydrogel in combination with cyclosporine for 1 month improved the clinical signs in more than 65% of dog patients previously unresponsive to cyclosporine treatment.
Determinants of psychotherapy outcome expectations: Qualitative accounts from socially anxious college students
Authors: Morrison Nicholas R. , Constantino Michael J. , Santorelli Gennarina D. , McVicar Erin L. , Ametrano Rebecca M.
Published: May 2021

Aim

Patients' prognostic psychotherapy outcome expectations are robustly associated with post‐treatment outcomes. However, little is known about the determinants of such expectancies, especially in college students whose beliefs have yet to be influenced by prior therapy experiences. Understanding factors that relate to such truly ‘baseline’ predictive beliefs can have implications for addressing undergraduate students' willingness to begin a course of, engage in, and benefit from mental health treatment, beyond simply having had prior positive or negative experiences. In this qualitative study, we examined socially anxious college students' first‐hand accounts of the primary determinants of their baseline treatment outcome expectations.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews focused on participants' personal, cultural and contextual outcome expectancy determinants were they to begin a course of psychotherapy in the future. Data were analysed according to grounded theory and consensual qualitative research principles.

Results

Categories including coursework, media and the experiences of important others were considered positive expectancy determinants in some cases and negative expectancy determinants in others, depending on whether the related depictions in class, on the screen, or in discussions were positively or negatively valenced. Although there was balance among most of these predictors, coursework was more commonly considered a positive versus negative expectancy determinant. More unique negative expectancy determinants were based on incorrect information regarding mental health and/or psychotherapy or stigma surrounding mental illness.

Discussion

Findings contribute to the currently scant literature on determinants of college students' baseline treatment beliefs.
Adolescents challenging discrimination: The benefits of a perspective‐taking and action‐planning intervention on self‐efficacy
Authors: Wallrich Lukas , Palmer Sally B , Rutland Adam
Published: May 2021

Discrimination is widespread and often goes unchallenged because bystanders do not recognize the need to intervene or do not know how to intervene. This field experiment with adolescents (N = 639) tested a group discussion designed to increase perceived importance and self‐efficacy around challenging general discrimination. The intervention, which involved perspective‐taking and action‐planning, was tested with delayed measures against active control conditions, namely sessions on self‐disclosure and civic engagement. It led to greater self‐efficacy, particularly among White participants. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
On‐farm corn phosphorus response reveals importance of soil testing
Authors: Rutan Jeff , Steinke Kurt
Published: May 2021

Core Ideas

Increased soil test P values above the critical threshold reduces the likelihood of grain yield response to P fertilizer application.

Soil test P critical concentrations of 14 ppm indicated no change from Tri‐State Soil Fertility recommendations.

Shallower soil sampling (0–2 inches) did not improve relationship between soil test P concentration and relative grain yield.
Melt Crystallization of Ammonium Dinitramide (ADN) Investigated by Means of X‐ray Diffraction
Authors: Herrmann Michael , Förter‐Barth Ulrich , Heintz Thomas
Published: May 2021

Ammonium dinitramide (ADN) is a promising oxidizing agent for solid rocket propellants. In situ XRD investigations of ADN and ADN suspensions have been performed in order to understand and refine the emulsion crystallization process for manufacturing spherical ADN particles (prills). The investigation revealed that the melt crystallization behavior depends on ADN quality, humidity, maximum temperature of temperature cycles, and suspension agents. Further investigations will focus on additives for controlling the mechanisms investigated, e.g., by seeding.
Pathfinders in oncology from the time the causal relation between tobacco use and lung cancer was established to publication of the first Cancer Staging Manual by the American Joint Committee on Cancer
Authors: Hajdu Steven I.
Published: May 2021

During the period from 1962 to 1977, several antigens, notably carcinoembryonic antigen and prostate‐specific antigen, were discovered and entered clinical use. Ultrasonography, positron emission tomography scanning, and magnetic resonance imaging were introduced, and adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy after limited surgery became routine procedures. Radioimmunoassay and immunohistochemistry techniques were standardized. The announcement in England and the United States that tobacco is a potent lung carcinogen was long delayed, important news. The US Cancer Act of 1971 made it possible to experiment with newly discovered drugs, transfer promising therapeutic agents from the laboratory to the clinic, and finance randomized clinical trials. Oncologists achieved a series of successes with combination chemotherapy in childhood cancers, adult lymphomas, and testis tumors. Clinical trials demonstrated that breast‐conserving therapy is as effective as mastectomy. The discovery of retroviruses, reverse transcriptase, and vascular endothelial growth factor was coupled with learning about oncogenes. The 2‐hit theory and the reciprocal translocation of chromosomes helped to solve some of the riddles of oncogenesis. The staging classification of cancers by the American Joint Committee on Cancer unified clinical and pathologic handling and prognostication of malignant tumors. The progress made in oncology between 1962 and 1977 came about through the dedicated work of many individuals. However, there were 9 pathfinders (3 medical oncologists, 2 surgeons, 1 medical nuclear physicist, 1 pediatrician geneticist, 1 hematologist geneticist, and 1 virologist) who, despite their diverse backgrounds, personalities, and interest, made extraordinary contributions to oncology.
Are Methylaluminoxane Activators Sheets?
Authors: Collins Scott , Hasan Galib , Joshi Anuj , McIndoe J. Scott , Linnolahti Mikko
Published: May 2021

Density functional theory calculations on neutral sheet models for methylaluminoxane (MAO) indicate that these structures, containing 5‐coordinate and 4‐coordinate Al, are likely precursors to ion‐pairs seen during the hydrolysis of trimethylaluminum (Me3Al) in the presence of donors such as octamethyltrisiloxane (OMTS). Ionization by both methide ([Me]−) and [Me2Al]+ abstraction, involving this donor, were studied by polarizable continuum model calculations in fluorobenzene (PhF) and o‐difluorobenzene (DFB) media. These studies suggest that low MW, 5‐coordinate sheets ionize by [Me2Al]+ abstraction, while [Me]− abstraction from Me3Al‐OMTS is the likely process for higher MW 4‐coordinate sheets. Further, comparison of anion stabilities per mole of aluminoxane repeat unit (MeAlO)n, suggest that anions such as [(MeAlO)7(Me3Al)4Me]−=[7,4]− are especially stable compared to higher homologues, even though their neutral precursors are unstable.
Multi‐Directional Mechanofluorochromism of Acetyl Pyrenes and Pyrenyl Ynones
Authors: Hirai Yuichi , Laize‐Générat Lucie , Wrona‐Piotrowicz Anna , Zakrzewski Janusz , Makal Anna , Brosseau Arnaud , Michely Laurent , Versace Davy‐Louis , Allain Clémence , Métivier Rémi
Published: May 2021

A series of acetyl pyrenes and pyrenyl ynones with and without tert‐butyl groups showed distinct mechanofluorochromism (MFC). Four pairs of polymorphic solids were found out of six compounds and interestingly, each of them showed hypsochromic, bathochromic or off‐to‐on MFC. The MFC properties were rationalized by categorizing the packing schemes into herringbone, sandwich, beta and gamma motifs depending on the relative contributions of C⋅⋅⋅C (or π‐π) against C⋅⋅⋅H contacts. The bulky tert‐butyl and trimethylsilyl groups served not only to reduce the number of aggregation patterns but also to prohibit the complete back reactions in solid state. Our results suggest that the simple pyrene derivatives may be promising candidates for a novel group of mechanically‐sensitive materials.