bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical exchange between dentin pre-tratment with CPP-ACP and GIC on demineralized dentin in deciduous molars
Authors: Dias Gisele Fernandes , Alves Fabiana Bucholdz Teixeira , Silveira Gabriela , Santos Fábio André dos
Published: March 2023

Aim: To assess the effect of the chemical exchange between restorations using high-viscosity glass ionomer cement (GIC) and the casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate CPP-ACP treatment on primary demineralized dentin by analyzing the hardness changes caused by calcium, phosphate and fluoride uptake. Methods: 40 deciduous molars were selected and randomly assigned to four groups according to dentin pretreatment and dentin condition. Class I cavity preparations were performed in 40 sound primary molar samples, equally divided into groups G1 (sound dentin) and G2 (demineralized dentin). Sub-groups (n=10) were set in order to aid in investigating the isolated GIC action or its association with CPP-ACP. This study was conducted in vitro and assessed the chemical exchange under two conditions, namely: sound and demineralized dentin (pH cycling); This in vitro study examined the mechanical and chemical exchange under two conditions – sound and demineralized dentin (pH cycling) – to simulate the mineral loss that occurs for the caries lesion. The 40 teeth first received a topical application of ACP-CPP and a restoration of high viscosity GIC. The 20 teeth assigned to the groups (G1 and G2) were only restored with GIC. The specimens were sliced and prepared for Knoop hardness test (KHN), Micro Raman, and FEG microhardness analysis groups. The statistical analysis used ANOVA and Bonferroni post-test at a 5% significance level. EDS (Dispersive Energy Spectroscopy) and FEG (High-resolution scanning electron microscope) data were qualitatively described. Results: Increased hardness was observed in all sites that had direct contact with GIC in the sound and demineralized dentin samples in all groups (p<0.001); microhardness showed no differences after CPP-ACP application (p>0.05). The direct contact between GIC in sound and demineralized dentins resulted in an increased phosphate peak in the FEG and EDS evaluations. Conclusion: ACP-CPP associated with GIC showed no increase in microhardness values of the demineralized dentin substrate. The exchange between the GIC and the demineralized dentin may induce changes in the mechanical properties of the substrate and in the uptake of mineral ions.Uniterms: dentin; prevention; caries; remineralization; demineralization; biomechanics
Estudo piloto da análise comparativa da atividade antimicrobiana da PDT e agentes irrigantes em canais radiculares inoculados com Enterococcus faecalis “in vitro”
Authors: Santa-Rosa Caroline Christine , Araújo Christiane Valente , De Carvalho Monize Ferreira Figueiredo , Araújo Patrícia Valente
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: O presente estudo piloto “in vitro” avaliou o efeito antimicrobiano do hipoclorito de sódio, clorexidina, terapia fotodinâmica e do óleo de girassol ozonizado utilizados como agentes irrigantes na eliminação do Enterococcus faecalis em canais radiculares de dentes humanos extraídos.

Métodos: Sessenta raízes de dentes unirradiculares (n = 60) foram selecionadas e autoclavadas para realização do experimento em fluxo laminar. Para a realização do teste de infiltração, confeccionou-se um dispositivo para cada dente que permitiu a contaminação por Enterococcus faecalis e posterior preparo químico-mecânico. As amostras foram submetidas ao preparo biomecânico com diâmetro cirúrgico correspondente à lima #45 e mesma conicidade nos terços médio e cervical e receberam protocolo de desinfecção com hipoclorito de sódio a 2,5% (NaOCl), Clorexidina a 2% (CHX), óleo de girassol ozonizado a 2400ppm (OGO), PDT após irrigação com soro fisiológico (PDT+S) e PDT após irrigação com hipoclorito de sódio a 2,5% (PDT+H). As dez raízes restantes constituíram os controles positivo e negativo, sendo cinco dentes para cada grupo. Os controles positivos foram infectados e não foi utilizado nenhum agente irrigante. Os controles negativos foram compostos por dentes não contaminados pelo E. faecallis.

Resultados: Os resultados da contagem de UFC/mL total e análise descritiva foram realizados. NaOCl e PDT+H apresentaram crescimento bacteriano inferiores aos valores de referência e foi considerado nulo. CHX e PDT+S apresentaram crescimento bacteriano baixo e OGO apresentou crescimento bacteriano moderado.

Conclusão: NaOCl e PDT+H apresentaram melhor desempenho em relação aos demais protocolos de desinfecção utilizados. OGO apresentou crescimento bacteriano moderado sugerindo inviabilidade de sua utilização isolada em protocolos de desinfecção em endodontia

Descritores: Fotoquimioterapia. Endodontia. Desinfecção.
Ansiedade odontológica autorrelatada pelas crianças atendidas na Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais: fatores associados e correlação com o medo dos pais
Authors: Paiva Ana Clara Ferreira de , Bittencourt Jéssica Madeira , Martins Letícia Pereira , Paiva Saul Martins , Bendo Cristiane Baccin
Published: March 2023

Introdução: A ansiedade odontológica pode acarretar impactos negativos na condição bucal do indivíduo. Objetivo: Avaliar a presença da ansiedade odontológica nas crianças atendidas na Clínica de Odontopediatria da Faculdade de Odontologia da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (FO-UFMG), e sua correlação com o medo odontológico de seus pais/responsáveis. Além disso, avaliar a associação entre a presença de ansiedade dessas crianças com tipo de tratamento necessário, o tempo em que faz tratamento na FO-UFMG e com seu comportamento de acordo com a Escala de Frankl.  Materiais e Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo transversal com uma amostra de conveniência de 65 crianças de 4 a 11 anos de idade atendidas na Clínica de Odontopediatria da FO-UFMG e seus pais/responsáveis. Os Questionários Venham Picture Test Modificado e Dental Fear Survey foram utilizados para mensurar a ansiedade e medo autorrelatados frente o tratamento odontológico das crianças e dos pais/responsáveis, respectivamente. As demais variáveis foram coletadas a partir da ficha clínica da criança. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas através do modelo de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta bivariada e correlação de Pearson. Resultados: O medo odontológico foi associado estatisticamente com complexidade de tratamento, sendo que a exodontia (RP=10,56; 95%IC=3,43-32,53) foi o procedimento mais associado com a presença de ansiedade odontológica nas crianças. O tempo de tratamento inferior a 24 meses também foi associado estatisticamente com presença de ansiedade odontológica pelas crianças (RP=11,52; 95%IC=1,74-76,25), assim como o comportamento definitivamente negativo da criança de acordo com a escala de Frankl (RP=5,46; 95%IC=2,96-10,04). Não houve correlação estatisticamente significativa entre a ansiedade das crianças e o medo dos pais/responsáveis (r=0,049; p=0,697). Conclusão: Crianças com necessidades odontológicas mais complexas, pior comportamento e com tempo de tratamento inferior a 24 meses possuíram maior presença ansiedade odontológica. Entretanto, a ansiedade odontológica das crianças não foi associada ao medo dos seus pais/responsáveis.

 

Palavras-chave: Ansiedade ao tratamento odontológico, Odontopediatria, Comportamento
Ações extensionistas em saúde bucal na rede pública de ensino de Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
Authors: Resende Taynara Asevedo Campos , Mateus Carolina Nappi , Oliveira Gustavo Leal , Martins Júnior Paulo Antônio , Moreira Paula Rocha , Amaral Janice Henriques da Silva , Silva Micena Roberta Miranda Alves
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: A escola mostra-se como um ambiente favorável para a divulgação e compartilhamento de informações sobre saúde. Este estudo objetivou relatar as ações extensionistas promovidas pelo Projeto “Promoção de Saúde Bucal” em duas escolas públicas de Belo Horizonte/MG.

Metodologia: Um total de 105 escolares com idade entre 8 e 15 anos participaram do estudo. A equipe do projeto foi constituída por alunos e professores da UFMG. Foram realizadas três intervenções com informações educativas sobre saúde bucal. Os escolares responderam a um questionário para avaliar seus hábitos diários e conhecimentos sobre saúde bucal, antes e após as intervenções. Foram realizadas análises descritivas, testes de McNemar e de Wilcoxon (p < 0,05).

Resultados: As intervenções foram capazes de melhorar o conhecimento e atitudes dos escolares sobre saúde bucal. Em relação à primeira avaliação, houve uma redução significativa na quantidade relatada de creme dental colocada na escova dentes (p < 0.001). Além disso, os escolares passaram a utilizar o fio dental com maior frequência, houve redução na frequência da ingestão de doces e menor interesse em utilizar piercingse aparelhos ortodônticos falsos.

Conclusão: As atividades extensionistas resultaram em maior conhecimento dos escolares sobre saúde bucal e ressaltam a necessidade de continuidade das ações para que bons hábitos de saúde sejam sedimentados.
importância de um protocolo preventivo no atendimento odontológico de pacientes fissurados: uma revisão sistemática da literatura
Authors: Alves Bruna Regina Rodrigues , Duarte Luana Gabriela Lopes , Ramos Grasieli de Oliveira
Published: March 2023

Introdução: As fissuras labiopalatais são caracterizadas como más formações congênitas que podem ocorrer na região óssea ou mucosa da abóboda palatina e no lábio superior, sendo considerado o defeito craniofacial mais comum na espécie humana. Tais alterações podem repercutir no processo do correto desenvolvimento da dentição. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar sistematicamente a literatura publicações relacionado ao protocolo de atendimento do cirurgião-dentista frente a pacientes com fissura labiopalatal. Materiais e métodos: Foram revisados artigos publicados até março de 2018, nas línguas inglesa, portuguesa e espanhola, obtidos por meio de buscas nas bases eletrônicas Pubmed, Lilacs, Bireme, Scielo, Scopus e busca manual nas referências dos artigos encontrados. Resultados: Após exclusão foram obtidos quatro artigos, os quais foram lidos na íntegra e que resultaram em um protocolo de atendimento dividido de acordo com as fases de dentição, com ênfase na prevenção. O protocolo foi separado em: fase do nascimento até a dentição mista, dentição mista e dentição permanente. Conclusões: Em relação aos achados, fica evidente a importância da prevenção durante todas as fases, tendo em vista a manutenção do perímetro da arcada para posterior tratamento ortodôntico, e acompanhamento periódico para manter a integridade dos dentes permanentes. Em decorrência da necessidade de procedimentos preventivos a esses pacientes, o cirurgião-dentista deve estar apto a realizar o atendimento tendo como base um protocolo para efetuar o manejo correto conforme a faixa etária e o período de dentição em que o paciente se encontra. Em virtude da ausência de preparo dos profissionais da odontologia na abordagem de pacientes fissurados, torna-se imprescindível o aprimoramento do conhecimento acerca das necessidades especiais que estes pacientes apresentam, bem como a criação de vínculo afetivo com o paciente e a família visando um tratamento preciso e humanizado.
Impacto da perda dentária na qualidade de vida de idosos com transtornos psiquiátricos
Authors: Figueiredo Mariana Souto , Carvalho Fábio Silva de , Carvalho Cristiane Alves Paz de
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: Avaliar a perda dentária, uso e necessidade de prótese em idosos com transtornos psiquiátricos e seu impacto na qualidade de vida. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo epidemiológico transversal e descritivo. Os participantes foram idosos atendidos no Centro de Atendimento Psicossocial (CAPS) de um município mineiro. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de exame clínico bucal que avaliou a perda dentária, o uso e a necessidade de prótese, além de um questionário, o Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI). Foi realizada análise estatística descritiva. Resultados: Participaram 28 idosos, com alta prevalência de edentulismo total (75,0%), entre os quais 64,3% utilizam prótese dental superior e 32,1% prótese inferior. Quanto à necessidade de prótese 60,7% necessitam de prótese superior enquanto 85,7% necessitam de prótese inferior. A média do GOHAI foi de 29,1, considerada baixa. Conclusão: A maioria dos idosos desse estudo apresentaram elevada perda dentária, que refletiu na percepção da saúde bucal ruim encontrada, sinalizando para a necessidade de tratamentos reabilitadores e de políticas públicas mais efetivas para promoção de saúde bucal.
Exodontias na Atenção Básica em municípios com e sem Centro de Especialidades Odontológicas
Authors: Souza Aline Andrade , Bastos Neto Bartolomeu Conceição , Santos Lília Paula de Souza , Oliveira Natally Rocha
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: Identificar diferenças no quantitativo de exodontias realizadas na Atenção Básica em municípios com e sem Centro de Especialidades Odontológicas do Recôncavo da Bahia.
Métodos: Estudo de série temporal, descritivo, utilizando dados disponíveis no Sistema de Informações Ambulatoriais do Sistema Único de Saúde e no Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística. Foram coletadas informações sobre os procedimentos de saúde bucal realizados na Atenção Básica, de 2008 a 2017, e características sociodemográficas dos municípios. Foram calculados os indicadores de saúde bucal: cobertura de primeira consulta odontológica programática; média de ação coletiva de escovação dental supervisionada; cobertura populacional estimada das Equipes de Saúde Bucal; proporção de exodontia em relação aos procedimentos.
Resultados: O município com Centro de Especialidades Odontológicas apresentou os menores resultados para o indicador de proporção de exodontia, variando o valor entre 3,2% e 6,8% durante o período analisado. Também foi o único a apresentar 100% de cobertura das Equipes de Saúde Bucal em todo o período analisado e a maior média de ação coletiva de escovação dental supervisionada (80,1%). Os municípios sem centro de especialidades apresentaram resultados percentuais altos para o indicador de exodontia, chegando a atingir 87,8% e 88,3%. Ainda apresentaram menor cobertura de Equipes de Saúde Bucal (24,4%) e de primeira consulta odontológica (2,7%), e menor média de ação coletiva de escovação dental supervisionada (0,01%).
Conclusão: Houve diferença no quantitativo de exodontia entre os municípios com e sem Centro de Especialidades Odontológicas. A menor ocorrência de exodontias na Atenção Básica pode ser atribuída a presença destes centros e cobertura de Equipes de Saúde Bucal.
SARS-CoV-2 Delta (B.1.617.2) variant replicates and induces syncytia formation in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived macrophages
Authors: Thaweerattanasinp Theeradej , Wanitchang Asawin , Saenboonrueng Janya , Srisutthisamphan Kanjana , Wanasen Nanchaya , Sungsuwan Suttipun , Jongkaewwattana Anan , Chailangkarn Thanathom
Published: March 2023

Alveolar macrophages are tissue-resident immune cells that protect epithelial cells in the alveoli from invasion by pathogens, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Therefore, the interaction between macrophages and SARS-CoV-2 is inevitable. However, little is known about the role of macrophages in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, we generated macrophages from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to investigate the susceptibility of hiPSC-derived macrophages (iMΦ) to the authentic SARS-CoV-2 Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (B.1.1.529) variants as well as their gene expression profiles of proinflammatory cytokines during infection. With undetectable angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) mRNA and protein expression, iMΦ were susceptible to productive infection with the Delta variant, whereas infection of iMΦ with the Omicron variant was abortive. Interestingly, Delta induced cell-cell fusion or syncytia formation in iMΦ, which was not observed in Omicron-infected cells. However, iMΦ expressed moderate levels of proinflammatory cytokine genes in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, in contrast to strong upregulation of these cytokine genes in response to polarization by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ). Overall, our findings indicate that the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant can replicate and cause syncytia formation in macrophages, suggesting that the Delta variant can enter cells with undetectable ACE2 levels and exhibit greater fusogenicity.
LincRNA00612 inhibits apoptosis and inflammation in LPS-induced BEAS-2B cells via enhancing interaction between p-STAT3 and A2M promoter
Authors: Xiao Xinru , Cai Wei , Ding Ziqi , Mao Zhengdao , Shi Yujia , Zhang Qian
Published: March 2023

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported as key regulators of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aimed to figure out the regulatory mechanism as well as the effects of lncRNA00612 (LINC00612) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation and apoptosis in BEAS-2B cells. LINC00612 and its co-expressed gene alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) were strikingly downregulated in the peripheral venous blood of COPD patients. Overexpressed LINC00612 enhances BEAS-2B cells against apoptosis and inflammatory reactions mediated by LPS, however, an A2M knockdown can attenuate the degree of the enhancement. Bioinformatics analysis revealed putative binding sites between LINC00612, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and the A2M promoter, while RNA antisense purification and Chromatin immunoprecipitation were performed to confirm the prediction. Knockdown of LINC00612 impaired the binding of p-STAT3 to the promoter of A2M, which meant that LINC00612 was critical for the binding of STAT3 with the A2M promoter. Therefore, it can be concluded that LINC00612 ameliorates LPS-induced cell apoptosis and inflammation via recruiting STAT3 to bind to A2M. This conclusion will serve as a theoretical foundation for the treatment of COPD.
Mecanismos de planificación y gestión del régimen urbano neoliberal en Medellín: los tratamientos urbanísticos
Authors: Alzate-Navarro Ángela
Published: March 2023

La estructuración reciente del urbanismo en Colombia ha implicado una diversificación de mecanismos de planificación, gestión y financiamiento urbano como estrategia neoliberal para compensar el retraimiento del Estado. Se analizan los marcos regulatorios a escala de polígono: los tratamientos urbanísticos en Medellín y sus implicaciones en la actividad edificadora respecto a la cantidad de unidades prediales, el valor por tratamiento y la participación en los diferentes estratos socioeconómicos. Como resultado se observa que, pese a la diversificación instrumental, las principales transformaciones urbanas de las dos últimas décadas se han producido bajo el modelo de gestión tradicional privada “predio a predio”, con un marco de regulación que favorece procesos de redensificación en los sectores de ingresos medios y altos; por otra parte, disminuyen las políticas de fomento a la autoconstrucción y se promueven procesos de renovación en sectores populares, con impactos en la distribución de rentas urbanas y la organización socioespacial.
El programa colombiano de vivienda gratuita y algunas lecciones internacionales sobre la cuestión de la gratuidad
Authors: Blanco Carolina
Published: March 2023

El gobierno colombiano desarrolló un programa de vivienda para hogares de bajos ingresos y vulnerabilidad extrema que entregó más de 100 mil viviendas gratuitamente. Este artículo analiza la primera fase de dicho programa, utilizando para ello información perceptual compartida por 1.200 beneficiarios que respondieron una encuesta presencial y testimonios telefónicos compartidos por un segmento de ellos. También se explica la operación del programa a partir de entrevistas con funcionarios involucrados en su formulación, se referencian tres casos con programas internacionales alternativos y se incluye un resumen de políticas habitacionales colombianas. Aplicando la metodología del Observatorio de Vivienda de la Universidad de los Andes se verifica la calidad en algunos proyectos, se revelan metas logradas, algunas falencias por localización, pero también una transformación contundente en la calidad de vida en los hogares, que amerita incluir esta opción en un portafolio de políticas estatales que potencien el derecho a una vida bien vivida.
Financiarización del mercado de viviendas por medio de Fondos de Inversión Inmobiliaria en metrópolis brasileñas
Authors: Kalinoski Rafael , Prokopiuk Mario
Published: March 2023

La financiarización es un concepto ampliamente explorado en la teoría, pero no siempre explicado sobre una base empírica. Por lo tanto, este estudio buscó identificar características y estrategias del avance de los Fondos de Inversión Inmobiliaria (FII) en el segmento residencial en metrópolis brasileñas, sobre todo en São Paulo, y comprender las relaciones entre los agentes involucrados y su conexión con el concepto de financiarización. Se realizó una investigación cualitativa para analizar e interpretar datos de ocho FII del segmento residencial. Los resultados muestran un patrón de arreglos sociotécnicos sofisticados entre los sectores financiero e inmobiliario y aportan al estudio de los FII y su novedosa inserción en el segmento residencial. Las principales conclusiones apuntan a: (i) un patrón de organización interna que se repite entre los fondos estudiados, (ii) que la ubicación desempeña un papel central en las estrategias de los fondos, y (iii) que existen dos discursos de marketing divergentes: la ideología de vivienda transitoria para el arrendatario, y la garantía de propiedad e ingresos futuros para el inversor.
La dignidad de los pobladores
Authors: Angelcos Nicolás
Published: March 2023

Título libro: The Right to Dignity: Housing Struggles, City Making, and Citizenship in Urban Chile Autor: Miguel Pérez Edición: Stanford University Press, 2022, 237 pp. ISBN: 978-1503631526
Antecedents of Online Purchasing Intentions for Skintific Skincare Brand on the Social Commerce Platform
Authors: Mafruchah Khoirun Nisa’ Lu’lu’ , Hartono Arif
Published: March 2023

This study aims to examine factors that drive online purchase intention and the mediating effect of online trust on social commerce Skintific TikTok Shop. This study employs a quantitative approach. Online questionnaires with a six-point Likert scale measurement are used. This study was conducted in Indonesia between November and December 2022. Respondents are Tik Tok users who are familiar with Skintific brand with a total number of 217. This study used PLS-SEM to test the proposed hypotheses. All hypotheses related to a direct relationship to online purchase intention are supported, except for social interaction. Therefore, online purchase intention has three main predictors such as transaction safety, online trust, and consumer engagement. Furthermore, the study reveals the mediating role of online trust in the relationship between social interaction and online purchases and between consumer engagement and online purchase intentions. The results of this study contribute to practical implications for sellers at TikTok Shop regarding strategies to increase online sales by providing an understanding of the various factors that influence online purchase intentions.
Research on Geometric Intuition of Junior High School Students in China
Authors: Zhou Kaiyue , Yang Zezhong
Published: March 2023

Recently, geometric intuition, as one of the core literacies of mathematics in Junior high schools, has received widespread attention. Many scholars have researched this area in China, but it lacks literature that provides a complete overview and collation of geometric intuition. We searched with the keyword geometric intuition through CNKI, and carefully read and categorised the opinions and research approaches of existing research, and draw the following conclusions: (1) Current research in China mainly focuses on four aspects: the connotation and expression of geometric intuition, the value of geometric intuition, the measurement and current situation of geometric intuition, and the cultivation strategies of geometric intuition. (2) There are some shortcomings in previous studies. For example, the methodology is monotonous and the content of geometric intuition require further expanding. (3) There are some gaps in the research on this topic. For example, the connotation of geometric intuition in the new era needs to be explored in-depth. Additionally, there is a lack of operational strategies, which needs to be verified through practical teaching. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the research methodology and expand the scope of research on geometric intuition in order to make this research more comprehensive, systematic, and in-depth.
Fixed Point Theorems Using α-Admissible Mappings in Metric Spaces
Authors: Deepika . , Kumar Manoj
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we shall prove the fixed point theorems in metric space using \(\alpha\) - admissible mapping. Some existing results of literature shall be deduced from the main results. In the end, we shall provide an example to support our result.
Influence of Potassium and Sulphur on Growth and Yield of Summer Sunflower (Helianthus annuus. L)
Authors: Ramya Tellam , Dawson Joy
Published: March 2023

A research was conducted during summer season of 2022 at crop research farm (CRF), Department of Agronomy, SHAUTS, prayagraj (U.P), to evaluate the influence of potassium and sulphur on growth and yield of summer sunflower. The treatments consisted of 3 levels of Potassium (30,40,50 Kg/ha) and Sulphur as (10,20,30 Kg/ha) and a control. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. The results showed that Application of 50 kg potassium soil application with combination of 30 kg sulphur as soil application recorded highest plant height (125.4 cm), plant dry weight (15.0 g/plant), and the yield attributes namely seeds per capitulum (332.4) Test weight (33.7 g), seed yield (1463.44 kg/ha), stover yield (3211.6 kg/ha), harvest index (31.3 %) and highest benefit - cost ratio (1.94).
Heavy Metals Contamination of Rice and Soil Samples in Nnatu St Azuuiyi Udene, Abakiliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Anthony Waribo, Helen , Bernadette Ohakwe, Ngozi , Anyalebechi E. O. , Mandy George, Daye , Ebirien-Agana Samuel Bartimaeus,
Published: March 2023

Aim: Assess  the levels of heavy metals: arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in three different sites of the major rice growing soils and determine  its accumulation in the rice grown on the same site in Nnatu St Azuuiyi Udene, Abakiliki, Ebonyi State.

Study Design: Soil and rice samples were collected from three different farm locations into properly labeled plastic bags respectively using a 9mm soil Augerin Nnatu St AzuuiyiUdene, Abakiliki, Ebonyi State.

Methodology: The collected samples were air-dried, ground, sieved and acid digested. The heavy metals in the samples were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometer PG instrument AA500 FPC model.

Results: The Mean ± SD (mg/kg) of heavy metals in rice were; As: 0.0013, Cd: 0.001, Pb: 0.002, Zn: 0.3620. Cu: 0.001 in site 1 whereas in Site 2; As: 0.0013, Cd:0.001, Pb:0.002, Zn:0.5040, Cu:0. 001. In site 3, the metals in rice were; As: 0.0013, Cd: 0.001, Pb: 0.002, Zn: 0.1950, and Cu: 0.040 respectively. The levels in the soil samples in site 1 were; As: 0.0013, Cd: 0.001, Pb: 0.002, Zn: 1.932. Cu: 0. 0267. In site 2, As: 0.0013, Cd: 0.001, Pb: 0.002, Zn: 1.597, Cu: 0.1550 and in site 3. As: 0.0013, Cd: 0.001, Pb: 0.002, Zn: 3.383, Cu: 0.0730 respectively. The mean values for arsenic, cadmium and lead in the soil and rice samples, respectively, were not significantly different (P > 0.05) in the three different sites whereas, for copper and zinc, the mean values were significantly different (P < 0.05) from each other at the different spots with an elevated concentration of copper and zinc in the soil samples than in the rice samples. However, these values were far lower than the values indicated by the World Health Organization as hazardous.

Conclusion: The rice samples grown in Nnatu St AzuuiyiUdene, Abakiliki is safe for consumption.
Firearm Safety for Patients Diagnosed With Cancer—A Role in Suicide Prevention
Authors: Williams Amy M. , Tam Samantha H. , Adjei Boakye Eric
Published: March 2023

This Viewpoint discusses firearm safety guidelines among patients diagnosed with cancer and at a higher risk of suicide.
Down Syndrome for the Otolaryngologist
Authors: Zalzal Habib G. , Lawlor Claire M.
Published: March 2023

Importance

There are many features of Down syndrome that prompt referral to an otolaryngologist. As the lifetime prevalence and life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome increase, it is increasingly likely that otolaryngologists will have the opportunity to care for patients with Down syndrome.

Observations

A confluence of characteristics common to Down syndrome may be associated with issues in the head and neck, from infancy through adulthood. Hearing concerns range from narrow ear canals and cerumen impactions to eustachian tube dysfunction, middle ear effusion, cochlear malformations, and conductive, sensorineural, and/or mixed hearing loss. Immune deficiency, hypertrophy of Waldeyer ring, and hypoplastic sinuses may complicate and develop into chronic rhinosinusitis. Speech delay, obstructive sleep apnea, dysphagia, and airway anomalies are also common among this patient population. Because these concerns may necessitate otolaryngologic surgery, it is vital for otolaryngologists to familiarize themselves with anesthetic concerns, including cervical spine instability, in patients with Down syndrome. Comorbid cardiac disease, hypothyroidism, and obesity may also affect these patients and otolaryngologic care.

Conclusions and Relevance

Individuals with Down syndrome may visit otolaryngology practices at all ages. Otolaryngologists that familiarize themselves with the head and neck manifestations that are common among patients with Down syndrome and know when to order screening tests will be able to provide comprehensive care.
Immune escape of colorectal tumours via local LRH‐1/Cyp11b1‐mediated synthesis of immunosuppressive glucocorticoids
Authors: Ahmed Asma , Reinhold Cindy , Breunig Eileen , Phan Truong San , Dietrich Lea , Kostadinova Feodora , Urwyler Corinne , Merk Verena M. , Noti Mario , Toja da Silva Israel , Bode Konstantin , Nahle Fatima , Plazzo Anna Pia , Koerner Julia , Stuber Regula , Menche Constantin , Karamitopoulou Eva , Farin Henner F. , Gollob Kenneth J. , Brunner Thomas
Published: March 2023

Control of tumour development and growth by the immune system critically defines patient fate and survival. What regulates the escape of colorectal tumours from destruction by the immune system remains currently unclear. Here, we investigated the role of intestinal synthesis of glucocorticoids in the tumour development during an inflammation‐induced mouse model of colorectal cancer. We demonstrate that the local synthesis of immunoregulatory glucocorticoids has dual roles in the regulation of intestinal inflammation and tumour development. In the inflammation phase, LRH‐1/Nr5A2‐regulated and Cyp11b1‐mediated intestinal glucocorticoid synthesis prevents tumour development and growth. In established tumours, however, tumour‐autonomous Cyp11b1‐mediated glucocorticoid synthesis suppresses anti‐tumour immune responses and promotes immune escape. Transplantation of glucocorticoid synthesis‐proficient colorectal tumour organoids into immunocompetent recipient mice resulted in rapid tumour growth, whereas transplantation of Cyp11b1‐deleted and glucocorticoid synthesis‐deficient tumour organoids was characterized by reduced tumour growth and increased immune cell infiltration. In human colorectal tumours, high expression of steroidogenic enzymes correlated with the expression of other immune checkpoints and suppressive cytokines, and negatively correlated with overall patients' survival. Thus, LRH‐1‐regulated tumour‐specific glucocorticoid synthesis contributes to tumour immune escape and represents a novel potential therapeutic target.
Industry Adoption of Organoids and Organs‐on‐Chip Technology: Toward a Paradox of Choice
Authors: Homan Kimberly A.
Published: March 2023

During the last decade, organoid and organs‐on‐chip technologies have significantly enhanced the ability to model human biology in vitro. For the pharmaceutical industry, this represents an opportunity to augment, or possibly replace, traditional preclinical animal studies with more clinically predictive tools. In the last few years, the marketplace for new human model systems has expanded rapidly. While pharma companies welcome the breadth of new options, ample choice can be paralyzing. Even for experts from the model developer community who are now filling the ranks in the industry, the pairing of the right model for a specific, fit‐for‐purpose biological question can be daunting. As a community, the adoption of these models can be hastened in the industry by publishing high dimensional datasets (e.g., multiomic, imaging, functional, etc.) on existing model systems, termed model‐omics, and storing them in publicly accessible databases. This action will allow for quick cross‐model comparisons and provide a sought‐after rationale for either routine or fit‐for‐purpose use of organoids or organs‐on‐chip during drug development.
Room‐Temperature Intrinsic Ferromagnetic Chromium Tellurium Compounds with Thickness‐Tunable Magnetic Texture
Authors: Wen Yao , Liang Shiheng , Dong Zhuo , Cheng Ruiqing , Yin Lei , He Peng , Wang Hao , Zhai Baoxing , Zhao Yang , Li Wendi , Jiang Jian , Li Zhongwei , Liu Chuansheng , Dong Kaifeng , He Jun , Zhang Kai
Published: March 2023

2D ferromagnetic chromium tellurides exhibit intriguing spin configurations and high‐temperature intrinsic ferromagnetism, providing unprecedented opportunities to explore the fundamental spin physics and build spintronic devices. Here, a generic van der Waals epitaxial approach is developed to synthesize the 2D ternary chromium tellurium compounds with thicknesses down to mono‐, bi‐, tri‐, and few‐unit cells (UC). The Mn0.14Cr0.86Te evolves from intrinsic ferromagnetic behavior in bi‐UC, tri‐UC, and few‐UC to temperature‐induced ferrimagnetic behavior as the thickness increases, resulting in a sign reversal of the anomalous Hall resistance. Temperature‐ and thickness‐tunable labyrinthine‐domain ferromagnetic behaviors are derived from the dipolar interactions in Fe0.26Cr0.74Te and Co0.40Cr0.60Te. Furthermore, the dipolar‐interaction‐induced stripe domain and field‐induced domain wall (DW) motion velocity are studied, and multibit data storage is realized through an abundant DW state. The magnetic storage can function in neuromorphic computing tasks, and the pattern recognition accuracy can reach up to 97.93%, which is similar to the recognition accuracy of ideal software‐based training (98.28%). Room‐temperature ferromagnetic chromium tellurium compounds with intriguing spin configurations can significantly promote the exploration of the processing, sensing, and storage based on 2D magnetic systems.
Nonepitaxial Electrodeposition of (002)‐Textured Zn Anode on Textureless Substrates for Dendrite‐Free and Hydrogen Evolution‐Suppressed Zn Batteries
Authors: Zhang Jingmin , Huang Weiwei , Li Longwei , Chang Caiyun , Yang Kai , Gao Lei , Pu Xiong
Published: March 2023

Nontoxic and safe aqueous Zn batteries are largely restricted by the detrimental dendrite growth and hydrogen evolution of Zn metal anode. The (002)‐textured Zn electrodeposition, demonstrated as an effective approach for solving these issues, is nevertheless achieved mainly by epitaxial or hetero‐epitaxial deposition of Zn on pre‐textured substrates. Herein, the electrodeposition of (002)‐textured and compact Zn on textureless substrates (commercial Zn, Cu, and Ti foils) at a medium‐high galvanostatic current density is reported. According to the systematic investigations on Zn nucleation and growth behaviors, this is ascribed to two reasons: i) the promoted nonepitaxial nucleation of fine horizontal (002) nuclei at increased overpotential and ii) the competitive growth advantages of (002)‐orientated nuclei. The resulting freestanding (002)‐textured Zn film exhibits significantly suppressed hydrogen evolution and prolonged Zn plating–stripping cycling life, achieving over 2100 mAh cm−2 cumulative capacity under a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a high depth of discharge (DOD) of 45.5%. Therefore, this study provides both fundamental and practical insights into long‐life Zn metal batteries.
High‐Performance Industrial‐Grade p‐Type (Bi,Sb)2Te3 Thermoelectric Enabled by a Stepwise Optimization Strategy
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Yuan Minhui , Pang Kaikai , Zhang Yuyou , Wang Ruoyu , Tan Xiaojian , Wu Gang , Hu Haoyang , Wu Jiehua , Sun Peng , Liu Guo‐Qiang , Jiang Jun
Published: March 2023

As the sole dominator of the commercial thermoelectric (TE) market, Bi2Te3‐based alloys play an irreplaceable role in Peltier cooling and low‐grade waste heat recovery. Herein, to improve the relative low TE efficiency determined by the figure of merit ZT, an effective approach is reported for improving the TE performance of p‐type (Bi,Sb)2Te3 by incorporating Ag8GeTe6 and Se. Specifically, the diffused Ag and Ge atoms into the matrix conduce to optimized carrier concentration and enlarge the density‐of‐states effective mass while the Sb‐rich nanoprecipitates generate coherent interfaces with little loss of carrier mobility. The subsequent Se dopants introduce multiple phonon scattering sources and significantly suppress the lattice thermal conductivity while maintaining a decent power factor. Consequently, a high peak ZT of 1.53 at 350 K and a remarkable average ZT of 1.31 (300–500 K) are attained in the Bi0.4Sb1.6Te0.95Se0.05 + 0.10 wt% Ag8GeTe6 sample. Most noteworthily, the size and mass of the optimal sample are enlarged to Ø40 mm‐200 g and the constructed 17‐couple TE module exhibits an extraordinary conversion efficiency of 6.3% at ΔT = 245 K. This work demonstrates a facile method to develop high‐performance and industrial‐grade (Bi,Sb)2Te3‐based alloys, which paves a strong way for further practical applications.
A Flexible and Polymer‐Based Chemiresistive CO2 Gas Sensor at Room Temperature
Authors: Shahrbabaki Zahra , Farajikhah Syamak , Ghasemian Mohammad B. , Oveissi Farshad , Rath Ronil J. , Yun Jimmy , Dehghani Fariba , Naficy Sina
Published: March 2023

CO2 sensing is important in many applications ranging from air‐quality monitoring to food packaging. In this study, an amine‐functionalized copolymer, poly(N‐[3‐(dimethylamino)propyl]‐methacrylamide‐co‐2‐N‐morpholinoethyl methacrylate) (p(D‐co‐M)) is synthesized, offering moderate basicity suitable for a wide CO2 detection range. Taking advantage of this characteristic of p(D‐co‐M), this polymer is used for designing a chemiresistive, low‐cost, flexible, and reversible CO2 sensor. The p(D‐co‐M)‐based sensors show a noticeable decrease in their direct current resistance and alternating current impedance upon exposure to a wide range of CO2 concentration (1–100%) at room temperature with a response and a recovery time of 6 and 14 min, respectively. Additionally, the p(D‐co‐M)‐based sensors demonstrate a favorable selectivity to CO2 in the presence of interfering gases including methanol, ethanol, toluene, and acetone. Surface potential measurements show an increase of +6.34 V upon exposure to humidity and CO2, indicating the protonation of the polymer's amine sites, facilitating the detection of CO2 in the wet environment. This sensor is efficient for detecting CO2 concentration released during fermentation of kimchi as a food model.
Ultrasound Microrobots with Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Schrage Matthijs , Medany Mahmoud , Ahmed Daniel
Published: March 2023

Ultrasound is an attractive modality for controlling micro/nanorobots due to penetrating deep into tissue, not being affected by the opaque nature of animal bodies, and generating a broad range of forces. However, ultrasound microrobots have poor navigation capabilities and the number of parameters involved in its motion make it extremely challenging for a human controller to accurately predict and manually correct the microrobot's position in real time. Herein, reinforcement learning control strategy is implemented to learn microrobot dynamics by accurately identifying micro/nanorobots (object detection and tracking) and manipulating them with ultrasound. This work demonstrates autonomous navigation of ultrasound microrobots in a fluidic environment. The propulsion strategy relies on the combined action of the primary and secondary radiation forces. Microswarms are formed through the secondary acoustic radiation force, while the primary acoustic radiation force guides the microrobots along a desired trajectory. Microrobots are trained using more than 100 000 images to study their unexpected dynamics. The control of the microrobots is validated, illustrating a good level of robustness and providing the microrobots with computational intelligence that enables them to navigate independently in an unstructured environment without outside assistance.
Structural Color Generation on Transparent and Flexible Substrates by Nanosecond Laser Induced Periodic Surface Structures
Authors: Arthanari Srinivasan , Park Jong‐Eun , Bose Sivakumar , Kang Hyun Wook , Kim Sanha , Yang Minyang , Lee Huseung , Hwang June Sik
Published: March 2023

Laser patterning to fabricate micro/nanoscale structures attracts enormous attention as they find many functional applications owing to their controllable structure and unique properties. The present work proposes a unique solution‐based method to fabricate laser‐induced periodic surface structure (LIPSS) patterns on a thin film of Titanium (IV) butoxide and Ag organometallic (OM) solution‐coated glass substrates with near infra‐red (NIR) nanosecond (ns) laser. The formation of periodic patterns has been confirmed, the thin film solution concentration affects the LIPSS pattern thickness and a continuous pattern is achieved with the diluted solution. Parametric studies demonstrate that the LIPSS patterns could be achieved with optimal solution dilution, laser fluence, scan speed, and pulse duration. A high power and faster scan speed result in discontinued, and defective patterns. The photothermal process such as material reorganization followed by electromagnetic absorption that takes place during laser patterning is mainly responsible for the fabrication of controlled structures. LIPSS patterned surfaces exhibit iridescent surface coloration while illuminated with white light, and the color spectrum from red to blue is distinguished. LIPSS patterned substrates serve as mold and structures are transferrable to the poly dimethyl siloxane (PDMS) film and exhibit iridescent structural coloration like LIPSS patterned substrates.
Enantioselective Organocatalytic Addition of Nitromethane to Trifluoromethyl Aryl Ketimines Promoted by Electron‐Rich Bifunctional Iminophosphoranes
Authors: Krstić Milena , Benaglia Maurizio , Gazzotti Margherita , Colombo Eleonora , Sanz Miguel
Published: March 2023

Thiourea‐based iminophosphorane (BIMP) organocatalysts featuring SPhos‐ or BIDIME phosphine units have been developed and successfully applied in the asymmetric addition of nitromethane to N‐Boc‐protected trifluoromethyl aryl ketimines. α‐Trifluoromethyl β‐nitroamines were obtained in 40–82% isolated yields and 80–95% enantioselectivities. A careful evaluation of the catalytic activity of BIMPs indicates that the catalysts derived from the combination via Staudinger reaction of a chiral 1,2‐amino alcohol‐derived thiourea‐organoazide with electron‐rich phosphines, promote the aza‐Henry reaction on fluorinated ketimines with the highest enantioselectivity, leading to the amine featuring a tetrasubstituted stereocenter in up to 95% ee. The reaction was performed also on gram scale, without loss of enantioselectivity.

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Sulfonamide as Photoinduced Hydrogen Atom Transfer Catalyst for Organophotoredox Hydrosilylation and Hydrogermylation of Activated Alkenes
Authors: Ram Bajya Kalu , Kumar Manjeet , Ansari Azaj , Selvakumar Sermadurai
Published: March 2023

Readily available, sterically, and electronically tunable sulfonamides have been developed as effective photoinduced hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) catalysts for selective Si−H functionalizations of a broad range of silanes. N‐centered radicals, catalytically generated from sulfonamides by photoredox catalyzed single‐electron oxidation, are the key intermediates that enable an effective HAT process for silyl radical generation to achieve hydrosilylation of activated alkenes. Additionally, this catalytic system can also be applied for the activation of Ge−H bond for hydrogermylation of activated alkenes through hydrogen atom transfer by sulfonamide derived nitrogen centered radical. The ability to generate silyl and germyl radical using this photochemical HAT process offers new avenue towards the sustainable synthesis of organosilicon and organogermanium compounds.

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Ir‐Catalyzed α‐Alkylation of Methyl Ketones with Primary Carbohydrate Alcohols
Authors: Tsuge Kouki , Kubota Shunnichi , Sakamoto Kana , Kitayama Kenji , Nishimura Takahiro
Published: March 2023

Iridium‐catalyzed α‐alkylation of methyl ketones with primary carbohydrate alcohols proceeded via borrowing hydrogen strategy. Protected sugar derivatives having one free primary hydroxyl group reacted with methyl ketones to give the α‐alkylation products or alkylated 4,5‐unsaturated sugars along with the elimination of an alkoxy group.

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Gold and Biocatalysis for the Stereodivergent Synthesis of Nor(pseudo)ephedrine Derivatives: Cascade Design Toward Amino Alcohols, Diols, and Diamines
Authors: González‐Granda Sergio , Steinkellner Georg , Gruber Karl , Lavandera Iván , Gotor‐Fernández Vicente
Published: March 2023

The combination of gold(I) and enzyme catalysis has provided access to a series of nor(pseudo)ephedrine derivatives in a regio‐ and stereoselective manner. The approach involves developing IPrAuNTf2‐catalyzed hydration of 1‐phenylprop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl acetate orN‐(1‐phenylprop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl)acetamide, followed by (dynamic) asymmetric biotransamination or bioreduction of the corresponding keto ester or keto amide intermediates. Enzyme actions were completely selective towards the modification of the methyl ketones in a highly stereoselective manner, allowing the synthesis of enantio‐ and diastereomerically enriched products using either racemic or optically active starting materials. Thus, a series of amino alcohol, diol, and diamine derivatives were produced from propargyl esters or amides (57 to 86% isolated yield), the biocatalyst of choice determining the (stereo)selectivity of the overall cascade process (70–99% diastereomeric excess and >98% enantiomeric excess), and providing access to nor(pseudo)ephedrine compounds in a straightforward manner.

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