bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilateral Isolated Congenital Microblepharon: A Rare Entity and Review of Literature
Authors: Monikha T , Modaboyina Sujeeth , Das Deepsekhar , Bajaj Mandeep Singh
Published: April 2021

Microblepharon is an extremely rare form of congenital anomaly of the eyelids defined as vertical shortening of anterior lamellae of the eyelids. Fuch's had defined the ‘height’ of upper lid as the distance from the margin of the upper lid to the centre of the brow when the eyes are closed, and ‘length’ as the same measurement when the lid is stretched maximally. The ratio of lid length to height normally exceeds 1.5 and any value less than this is taken as microblepharon. Microblepharon is usually associated with other congenital anomalies, as described in many literatures. Isolated microblepharon is extremely rare and exhaustive literature search revealed only one such previously reported case. We report a case of bilateral isolated congenital microblepharon, and the first of its kind which required no surgical intervention.
A Case of Idiopathic Orbital Inflammation And Third Nerve Palsy: Interesting Case
Authors: Tuli Rajeev , Dhiman Indu
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

This case is a unique presentation of idiopathic orbital inflammation and 3rd nerve palsy (superior division involvement).

Case report:

A 30 years female patient presented with chief complaints of diplopia for two days and drooping of right upper eyelid for one day. Patient also complained of ocular pain and headache for preceeding ten days. Considering the clinical presentation, a differential diagnosis of thyroid orbitopathy, ocular myasthenia, orbital neoplasm and idiopathic orbital inflammatory syndrome (IOIS) was considered. Laboratory investigations revealed nothing significant. MRI orbit was suggestive of IOIS. The patient was started on oral steroids and had a favorable outcome.

Conclusion:

Understanding of the clinical features of patients with IOIS, differentiating it from other clinical conditions and timely implementation of available treatment may help to prevent visual loss and other associated morbidity from this condition.
Bilateral Endogenous Endophthalmitis In Association with Knee
Authors: Kaur Rajwinder , Samria Shallu , Khan Balbir , Singh Harijot , kaur Kulbir
Published: April 2021

Endogenous endophthalmitis is a rare condition caused by the haematogenous spread of microorganisms from a remote infection site to the eye. Common predisposing conditions are intravenous drug use (IVDU), diabetes, malignancy, immunosuppression, chronic renal failure, parenteral nutrition or invasive medical procedures. Endogenous endophthalmitis with staphylococcal bone infection is rare but a serious condition. We describe a case of bilateral endogenous endophthalmitis in a 32 year old intravenous drug abuser who presented with knee osteomyelitis, which further get complicated to septic pulmonary emboli and infective endocarditis. A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose this condition. Early and aggressive management is the key to the favorable visual outcome.
Optical Coherence Tomography Findings Of Photoreceptor-Retinal Pigment Epithelium Complex In Acute Traumatic Maculopathy
Authors: Ramesh Prasanna Venkatesh , Ramesh Shruthy Vaishali , Rajasekaran Ramesh , Ramesh Meena Kumari
Published: April 2021

A young male patient presented with history of blunt injury to his left eye with defective vision. His fundus examination showed commotio-retinae inferiorly associated with Berlinʼs oedema. Optical coherence tomography imaging helped in identifying the damage at the level of photoreceptor-retinal pigment epithelium complex, and in grading the extent of tissue injury
Jet Stream Injury From Triamcinolone Acetonide Leading To Perifoveal Tear
Authors: Barman Manabjyoti , Sheokand Minakshi , Dhir Pushkar
Published: April 2021

Managing iatrogenic hole in peri-foveal area in the most unexpected mannerwhile planning for macular hole surgery has been a daunting task for the surgeon leaving a big dilemma to peel or not to peel, to go ahead with endo-laser or tamponade or just to abandon the surgery. We report a case of 68 year old female who encountered spontaneous closure of iatrogenic peri-foveal hole formed by triamcinolone crystal plug hitting the peri-foveal area just before ILM staining.
Treatment of Recalcitrant Mycotic Keratouveitis with Targeted Voriconazole Injection Combined with Hypopyon Drainage
Authors: Jain Prateek , Pal Poulami , Pattnaik Anshuman
Published: April 2021

Fungal keratitis is a common yet obstinate condition to treat with a wide range of ocular morbidity. Factors such as compromised immunity of the patient, reduced drug penetration, refractory nature of the disease contribute to difficulty in treatment. A 65 year old chronic smoker was referred to us with left eye deep fungal keratitis with hypopyon which was not responding to topical treatment. The patient was diagnosed as Recalcitrant Mycotic Keratouveitis and was posted for targeted management including hypopyon drainage with Intrastromal and Intracameral Voriconazole injection; following which the condition improved significantly.
IOL Opacification Simulating White Cataract
Authors: Ahir Ankit , Agarwalla Isha , Garg Mohit , Kuri Ganesh , Gokani Bhavya
Published: April 2021

A 79-year-old male patient presented complaining of decreased visual performance in his right eye(OD) over a 2 month period. On examination, visual acuity was CFCF with a white reflex in pupillary area. On diffuse biomicroscopic examination thin layer of whitish opacification was seen on anterior surface of lens, simulating the presence of total cataract.
Bank Distress Prediction Model for Botswana
Authors: Kablay Hassan , Gumbo Victor
Published: April 2021

"Financial distress" has many dierent meanings but generally it is said to be a state of unhealthy condition. Botswana's banking system comprises of commercial, development and savings banks. None of these types of banks has actually failed but rather some of them have experienced some form of distress. The Bank of Botswana uses the CAMELS ratings to measure distress. The CAMELS ratings is based on a score between 1 and 5, with 1 being the best score and indicates strong performance, while 5 is the poorest rating and it indicates a high probability of bank failure and the need for immediate action to rectify the situation. For this study, we consider 1-3 to be good scores (non-distressed) and a bank to be distressed if it has a score of 4-5. Utilising secondary data sources for the period 2015 to 2019, inclusive, the study evaluated the drivers of bank distress in Botswana. The data was sourced from the audited nancial statements and annual reports of the 11 banks involved in the study. Panel data logistic regression was used for analysis. The results of the study showed that Non-Performing Loans (NPL) ratio and Return on Equity (ROE) were the best predictors of bank distress.
Yield Gap Analysis in Major Field Crops of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Divakaran A. , Keerthana V. , Udhayakumar M.
Published: April 2021

Agriculture plays a vital role in Indian economy, contributes 13% of gross domestic product and provides employment opportunities to more than 50% of work force.  In India 60% of land area are arable leads to second largest country in terms of total arable land area. The technology development rate is 2 percent and farm productivity rate only increase by 0.3 percent in major crops. It implied that outreach of technology from lab to land have several constraints. In this study, yields gaps of major field crops are calculated with the data provided by the joint directorate of Tamil Nadu, to find, to which extent the advancement in agriculture is helpful and it is found out that the yield gap II of selected varieties of major crops are high. It shows the deviation from the potential yield of the variety with the actual yield obtained by the farmer.
Plants Used in Gynecology by the Malinke of South-eastern Senegal (Kédougou region)
Authors: Mathieu Gueye , Seydina Diop , Bernard Mingou Paterne Arnaud , Ibra Samb Papa
Published: April 2021

Background: The collection and promotion of traditional knowledge is an international issue today. Thus, in this study we were interested in the local knowledge held by the Malinke of south-eastern Senegal on the plants used in gynecology. Methodology: The open semi-structured interviews technique, immersion, direct observations were used to collect local knowledge. The data are processed by descriptive statistical techniques for calculating ethnobotanical indices.

Results: The Malinke use 30 plants, belonging to 24 genera, distributed in 15 families, the most representative of which are the Fabaceae with 5 species, the Rubiaceae comprising 4 species, the Apocynaceae, the Combretaceae and the Moraceae with 3 species each. Their traditional mode of use compared to the practice of modern medicine allows the plants used to be classified into 7

Groups: oxytocics, antispasmodics, uterine antispasmodics, antiemetics, diuretics, muscle relaxants and galactogens. The most used species are Erythrina senegalensis, Ficus umbellata, Raphionacme splendens and Indigofera leptoclada. Bark is mostly used (38%), followed by the leaves and roots (22% each), while the most common method of preparation is a decoction (60%).

Conclusion: The study shows the importance of traditional medicine in rural areas of Kédougou region, south-eastern Senegal in the management of pregnancy, breastfeeding and maternal health. This is why a pharmacological characterization is underway to promote this local knowledge.
Method to Develop and Stress Degradation Profile of N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-2-{[5-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]sulfanyl}Acetamide Studied by UV Spectroscopy
Authors: Afridi Muhammad Shaharyar Khan , Latif Abida , Fahham Hafiz Hanzalah , Rubab Kaneez , Aslam Itzaz , Ishtiaq Saiqa
Published: April 2021

Background: Synthetic chemistry has always served as a back bone to the medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry in terms of drug development and drug optimization. It helped in a great deal in finding new lead compounds and synthesizing new drugs. A new molecule N-(2,6-Dimethylphenyl)-2-{[5-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl] sulfanyl} acetamide, was synthesized from the fusion of  Indole acetic acid with 1,3,4-oxadiazole. This pharmacologically active entity lacks a suitable method for its analysis.

Aim: The present research aimed to develop a UV visible spectroscopic method for the purpose followed by its validation according to ICH guidelines.

Methodology: The method was developed at 225 nm (λmax). Then the accuracy, precision, sensitivity (Limit of detection & Limit of quantification), specificity, robustness and ruggedness were calculated. The analyte was exposed to multiple stress conditions to figure out method’s specificity. Results: The developed method showed the linearity within a range (0.5 – 50 µg/mL) with correlation coefficient (R2) = 0.9997. The accuracy of the developed method was figured out by recovery analysis and it was within 95.556 – 104.321 %. The precision analysis i.e. interday (0.505591 %), intraday (0.231661 %) and repeatability (0.06478 %), were within the acceptance criteria viz. % RSD less than 2 % and LOD & LOQ were found to be 0.523356 and 1.58598 µg/mL. All the validation parameters were within the acceptance limits making the method unique and acceptable. In addition to that it was found to be easy, reliable and analyst friendly (ruggedness, 0.520889 %). The analyte when exposed to stress conditions viz. acidic (0.1N H2SO4) and basic (0.1N NaOH) environment, oxidative stress (3 % H2O2), UV light and altered temperature and humidity (80 ºC+75% RH) for 24 hr, it was found deteriorated. The analyte was 65.56 % degraded in acidic, 39.63 % in basic, 45.18 % under oxidative stress and 61.85 % under altered conditions of temperature and humidity. There was a complete loss of analyte (87.78 %) when exposed to UV light.

Conclusion: The results clearly states that the method is simple, sensitive, specific, precise and accurate, thus can be employed for the quantitative estimations of the analyte.
Clinical Presentation of Mandibular Impacted Teeth and Associated Pathologies in the Unaizah, Al Qaseem; Saudi Arabia
Authors: Shora Khaled Ramzi , Channar Kashif Ali , Shaikh Irfan Ahmed , Memon Abdul Bari , Shaikh Abdul Hayee , Maheshwari Bhavesh , Pershad Ram , Memon Mahnoor
Published: April 2021

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical presentation of mandibular impacted teeth and associated pathologies in Unaizah, Al Qaseem; Saudi Arabia.

Study Design: Descriptive cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS), King Saud Hospital Unaizah Saudi Arabia from March 2019 and December 2020.

Methodology: The record of patients attending dental section was reviewed from hospital record. Demographic data of patients were recorded through medical record Number by Medicapluse software. Orthopantamograms (OPGs) xrays were reviewed by maxillofacial surgeons on Dell LCD using software IMPEX 6.3.1.2794 enterprise unlimited Agfa. The variables like presence of impacted tooth, type of angulations, reason for extraction, caries on distal surface of 2nd molar tooth, and occlusal or mesial surface of 3rd molar were examined on OPGs. Data was analyzed using SPSS version-21.

Results: Males and females were 49% and 51% respectively. The most common type of impaction was vertical 45%, followed by horizontal 27% and mesio angular 22%. The impacted tooth on right side was observed as 51% and on left side as 49%. The relationship of gender with type of impaction was statistically insignificant (p value-0.157). The relationship was reasons and type of impaction was statistically insignificant (p value-0.317)

Conclusion: the both genders were almost equally affected. Vertical Impactions were more frequent and the pericoronitis was common reason for extraction of mandibular third molar. The relationship of gender and type of impaction was not significantly associated with type of impaction.
Application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points on Harvested Mangrove Oysters (Crassostrea gasar) from Selected Sources in Rivers State
Authors: Emoghene G. , Efiuvwevwere B. J. O. , Eruteya O. C.
Published: April 2021

Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the hazards associated with oyster from two communities in Rivers State and provides an insight at improving the safety of oyster through the application of the hazards analysis critical control points (HACCP) concept in processing freshly harvested mangrove oysters.

Study Design:  This work is based on completely randomized design with two replications and the average values calculated for mean comparison.

Place and Duration of Study: Food and Industrial Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, University of Port Harcourt, between October 2018 and March, 2019.

Methodology: The proximate composition, pH and bacterial profile of oysters prepared conventionally and that prepared employing critical control points concept determined using standard methods.

Results: The proximate composition of oyster meat revealed the following: moisture (83.73%), protein (8.36%), lipid (1.28%), fiber (1.04%), carbohydrate (2.12%) and ash content (3.47%). The average aerobic plate count for Abuloma and Okrika were 5.69 and 6.98 log10CFU/g respectively while coliform count was 5.37 and 5.02log10CFU/g respectively. Two bacterial genera (Staphylococcus and Bacillus) were isolated from oyster processed with HACCP approach at the last critical control point 7, whereas, nine bacterial genera (Bacillus, Streptococcus, Vibrio, Escherichia, Lactobacillus, Klebsiella, Proteus, Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas) were isolated from the conventionally processed oysters.

Conclusion: The HACCP concept gave an improved microbiological quality of oyster meat and the safety of oyster and potential economic value.
High‐Displacement, Fiber‐Reinforced Shape Memory Alloy Soft Actuator with Integrated Sensors and Its Equivalent Network Model
Authors: Mersch Johannes , Bruns Mathis , Nocke Andreas , Cherif Chokri , Gerlach Gerald
Published: April 2021

For soft robotics, shape memory alloy (SMA)‐based elastomeric actuators are a promising material combination but their maximum stroke is limited by the small inherent contraction of SMAs. In this work, a textile‐reinforced soft actuator is presented, which has additional SMA wire length included in the textile structure as well as a sensoric textile to track the actuator's pose. This strategy eliminates the need for external SMA wires with extra mechanical components. Various experiments with different excitation voltages are performed to show the actuator's performance. In a horizontal setup, the soft actuator reaches a bending angle of 270° at a power input of 18 W. The integrated sensor reflects the actuator's position but is also influenced by the temperature increase during activation. Moreover, an equivalent circuit model is proposed that includes the actuator, sensor, and mechanical support structure in one model. The model incorporates not only the mechanical but also the thermal and electrical domains. The simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results.
Resolved phylogenetic relationships in the Ocotea complex (Supraocotea) facilitate phylogenetic classification and studies of character evolution
Authors: Penagos Zuluaga Juan C. , van der Werff Henk , Park Brian , Eaton Deren A. R. , Comita Liza S. , Queenborough Simon A. , Donoghue Michael J.
Published: April 2021

Premise

The Ocotea complex contains the greatest diversity of Lauraceae in the Neotropics. However, the traditional taxonomy of the group has relied on only three main floral characters, and previous molecular analyses have used only a few markers and provided limited support for relationships among the major clades. This lack of useful data has hindered the development of a comprehensive classification, as well as studies of character evolution.

Methods

We used RAD‐seq data to infer the phylogenetic relationships of 149 species in the Ocotea complex, generating a reference‐based assembly using the Persea americana genome. The results provide the basis for a phylogenetic classification that reflects our current molecular knowledge and for analyses of the evolution of breeding system, stamen number, and number of anther locules.

Results

We recovered a well‐supported tree that demonstrates the paraphyly of Licaria, Aniba, and Ocotea and clarifies the relationships of Umbellularia, Phyllostemonodaphne, and the Old World species. To begin the development of a new classification and to facilitate precise communication, we also provide phylogenetic definitions for seven major clades. Our ancestral reconstructions show multiple origins for the three floral characters that have routinely been used in Lauraceae systematics, suggesting that these be used with caution in the future.

Conclusions

This study advances our understanding of phylogenetic relationships and character evolution in a taxonomically difficult group using RAD‐seq data. Our new phylogenetic names will facilitate unambiguous communication as studies of the Ocotea complex progress.
Exploratory analysis reveals arthropod consumption in 10 lemur species using DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Rowe Amanda K. , Donohue Mariah E. , Clare Elizabeth L. , Drinkwater Rosie , Koenig Andreas , Ridgway Zachary M. , Martin Luke D. , Nomenjanahary Eva S. , Zakamanana François , Randriamanandaza Lovasoa J. , Rakotonirina Thierry E. , Wright Patricia C.
Published: April 2021

Arthropods (insects, spiders, etc.) can fulfill major nutritional requirements for primates, particularly in terms of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Yet, for many primate species we know very little about the frequency and importance of arthropod consumption. Traditional methods for arthropod prey identification, such as behavioral observations and fecal dissections, offer limited taxonomic resolution and, as a result, underestimate true diversity. Metabarcoding arthropod DNA from primate fecal samples provides a promising but underused alternative. Here, we inventoried arthropod prey diversity in wild lemurs by sequencing two regions of the CO1 gene. Samples were collected opportunistically from 10 species of lemurs inhabiting three national parks in southern Madagascar using a combination of focal animal follows and live trapping. In total, we detected arthropod DNA in 98 of the 170 fecal samples analyzed. Although all lemur species included in these analyses showed evidence of arthropod consumption, those within the family Cheirogaleidae appeared to consume the highest frequency and diversity of arthropods. To our knowledge, this study presents the first evidence of arthropod consumption inPhaner pallescens,Avahi peyrierasi, andPropithecus verreauxi, and identifies 32 families of arthropods as probable food items that have not been published as lemur dietary items to date. Our study emphasizes the importance of arthropods as a nutritional source and the role DNA metabarcoding can play in elucidating an animal's diet.
Modular Synthesis of α‐Quaternary Chiral β‐Lactams by a Synergistic Copper/Palladium‐Catalyzed Multicomponent Reaction
Authors: Qi Jialin , Wei Fang , Tung Chen‐Ho , Xu Zhenghu
Published: April 2021

An asymmetric multicomponent, interrupted Kinugasa allylic alkylation (IKAA) reaction has been developed with a synergistic Cu‐catalyzed Kinugasa system and a Pd‐catalyzed allylic alkylation reaction. This unprecedented reaction provides in high yields and with high stereoselectivity a synthesis of α‐quaternary chiral β‐lactams, which cannot be produced with existing synthetic methods. Stereoselective coupling of two catalytic amounts of transient organometallic intermediates formed in situ is an important feature of this reaction.
Synthesis and optimization of dopamine hydrochloride functionalized palygorskite and their application in protective coatings on water saturated surface of concrete
Authors: Sun Dewen , Ma Yingjie , Lu Liqun , Qi Shuai , Hou Pingping , Li Bo , Ran Qianping , Liu Jiaping , Hong Jinxiang
Published: April 2021

The synthesis process of dopamine hydrochloride functionalized palygorskite (Pal) nanoparticles (Pal@PDA) is optimized by adjusting the mass ratio of them. The optimal preparation technology of the Pal@PDA is determined by scanning electron microscopy and comparing the adhesive strength between the biomimetic protective coatings and dry and water saturated concrete surface. When the mass ratio of dopamine hydrochloride to Pal is 1:4, the prepared Pal@PDA does not contain excess polydopamine (PDA) nanoparticles and the coatings incorporating the Pal@PDA have the highest adhesive strength on dry and water saturated concrete surface at the same conditions. Compared with the pure epoxy primer, the adhesive strength between the epoxy primer incorporating 5 wt% Pal@PDA and the water saturated concrete surface increases by 25.69% (from 3.282 to 4.125 MPa). Furthermore, the Pal@PDA is embedded into pure epoxy resin to prepare the biomimetic resin composites, the tensile strength and compressive strength of the composites incorporating 5 wt% Pal@PDA are 91.20% and 34.77% higher than that of pure epoxy resin, respectively. Further studies confirm that the active groups on the Pal@PDA surface form the stable covalent and non‐covalent bonds with epoxy primer and the water saturated concrete surface, which is the major mechanism of improving interfacial adhesion.
Fine grinding of thermoplastics by high speed friction grinding assisted by guar gum
Authors: Bhagia Samarthya , Gallego Nidia C. , Hiremath Nitilaksha , Harper David P. , Lowden Richard A. , Lowden Richard R. , Pu Yunqiao , Vaidya Uday , Ozcan Soydan , Ragauskas Arthur J.
Published: April 2021

High speed friction grinding has been used to grind plant and food substances in water but never been explored for grinding of thermoplastics like polylactic acid (PLA), low and high density polyethylene and polypropylene. Such grinding was investigated in this work and was made possible by using 0.5% guar gum solution instead of just water because increasing the viscosity of water reduced their settling and the speed of passing through the grinder. Tensile, flexural, and impact strengths of the plastics were studied and higher grinding efficiency of PLA could be explained by its low elongation‐at‐break compared to low density polyethylene, high density polyethylene, and polypropylene. The microplastics (2000–45 μm) were studied for mass and particle size distributions and by scanning electron microscopy, 13C CP/MAS NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. In addition, viscosity of guar gum and contact angles was measured. This new technology can produce finely ground microplastics (710–45 μm) for a variety of applications.
Self‐crosslinked poly‐L‐ornithine and poly‐L‐arginine networks: Synthesis, characterization, pH‐responsibility, biocompatibility, and AIE‐functionality
Authors: Yu Haixiang , Tong Zongrui , Bai Tianwen , Mao Zhengwei , Ni Xufeng , Ling Jun
Published: April 2021

A pH‐responsive hydrogel consists of polypeptides only is a promising biomaterial with the advantages of good biocompatibility and non‐toxicity. This work reports the synthesis of poly‐L‐ornithine(poc) (polyLOpoc) serving as the precursor for hydrogels of poly‐L‐ornithine (polyOrn) and poly(L‐arginine‐r‐L‐ornithine) (poly(Arg‐r‐Orn)). Their controllable degree of crosslinking, good mechanical properties, good biocompatibility, and pH‐responsibility are detailedly investigated. The swelling ratio of polyOrn hydrogel in acidic aqueous solution is 5.7 times higher than that in a basic environment. In the deprotection of phenoxycarbonyl group, polyLOpoc releases amino pendant groups, which attack the remaining poc‐protected amino groups to fulfill self‐crosslinking without any crosslinking agent. In addition, the pH‐responsive behavior of hydrogels is visualized by aggregation‐induced emission phenomena with polyOrn and poly(Arg‐r‐Orn) containing tetrakis(4‐aminophenyl)ethene moisture.
Controlling the foam morphology of supercritical CO2‐processed poly(methyl methacrylate) with CO2‐philic hybrid nanoparticles
Authors: Ozkutlu Merve , Bayram Goknur , Dilek Cerag
Published: April 2021

Highly CO2‐philic nanoparticles, octatrimethylsiloxy polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) are used to increase the affinity of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) to CO2 in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) foaming, thus to improve its foaming performance and the foam morphology. PMMA and PMMA‐POSS composite foams were produced based on the two‐factorial design, at the upper and lower experimental conditions of pressure, temperature, processing time, and venting rate. The foams of PMMA‐5% POSS composites exhibited smaller average pore sizes and higher pore densities than neat PMMA and PMMA‐0.5% POSS composites. The smallest average pore diameter (0.3 μm) and the highest pore density (6.33 × 1012 cm−3) were obtained with this composite processed at 35°C, 32 MPa, for 24 h and depressurized with fast‐venting rate (0.4 MPa/s). ScCO2 processing decreased the density of the polymer by more than 50%.
Movements and diving behaviour of white‐chinned petrels: Diurnal variation and implications for bycatch mitigation
Authors: Frankish Caitlin K. , Manica Andrea , Navarro Joan , Phillips Richard A.
Published: April 2021

Many seabirds dive to forage, and the ability to use this hunting technique varies according to such factors as morphology, physiology, prey availability, and ambient light levels. Proficient divers are more able to seize sinking baits deployed by longline fishing vessels and may return them to the surface, increasing exposure of other species. Hence, diving ability has major implications for mitigating incidental mortality (bycatch) in fisheries.

Here, the diving behaviour and activity patterns of the most bycaught seabird species worldwide, the white‐chinned petrel (Procellaria aequinoctialis), tracked from Bird Island (South Georgia), are analysed. Three data sources (dives, spatial movements, and immersion events) are combined to examine diverse aspects of at‐sea foraging behaviour, and their implications for alternative approaches to bycatch mitigation are considered.

The tracked white‐chinned petrels (n = 14) mostly performed shallow dives (<3 m deep) of very short duration (<5 s), predominantly during darkness, but only 7 and 10% of landings in daylight and darkness, respectively, involved diving, suggesting that surface‐seizing is the preferred foraging technique. Nonetheless, individuals were able to dive to considerable depth (max = 14.5 m) and at speed (max = 2.0 m·s−1), underlining the importance of using heavy line‐weighting to maximize hook sink rates, and bird‐scaring lines (Tori lines) that extend for long distances behind vessels to protect hooks until beyond diving depths.
Reserve effect of a small North‐East Atlantic marine protected area (Arrábida, Portugal) on soft‐sediment fish species
Authors: Martínez‐Ramírez Lucas , Priester C. Robert , Sousa Inês , Erzini Karim , Abecasis David
Published: April 2021

The implementation of marine protected areas (MPAs) has been widely used as a tool to manage and conserve marine resources and services. Yet, to date, the reserve effect is still weakly evaluated, particularly for soft‐sediment habitats.

The Arrábida MPA, considered as a biodiversity hotspot, was fully established in 2009 on the west coast of Portugal and is characterized by large expanses of soft‐sediment habitats. This MPA was established to protect biodiversity and to ensure the livelihood of the local small‐scale fisheries community.

Beyond before–after‐control–impact (BACI) analyses were carried out on catch data (abundance and biomass) of 351 trammel net sets from experimental fishing campaigns (2007–2019) to study the reserve effect on demersal fish populations.

The results show a declining trend in abundance inside and outside the protected area, with significant positive effects only found for undersize commercial species and Solea senegalensis, and a general increase in fish species total length. Despite the lack of any obvious reserve effect, the increase in fish length can be considered as a first sign.

Anthropogenic pressures are generalized around the area, and transgressions of the restrictions are frequently observed inside the no‐take zone. These can, among other aspects, delay or prevent the expected reserve effects. Therefore, enforcement and/or modification of the spatial plan must be incentivized to achieve the goals of the MPA.
Melatonin improves cognitive behavior, oxidative stress, and metabolism in tumor‐prone lethal giant larvae mutant of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Wong Kar‐Cheng , Sankaran Srivani , Jayapalan Jaime J. , Subramanian Perumal , Abdul‐Rahman Puteri S.
Published: April 2021

Mutant lethal giant larvae (lgl) flies (Drosophila melanogaster) are known to develop epithelial tumors with invasive characteristics. The present study has been conducted to investigate the influence of melatonin (0.025 mM) on behavioral responses of lgl mutant flies as well as on biochemical indices (redox homeostasis, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, transaminases, and minerals) in hemolymph, and head and intestinal tissues. Behavioral abnormalities were quantitatively observed in lgl flies but were found normalized among melatonin‐treated lgl flies. Significantly decreased levels of lipid peroxidation products and antioxidants involved in redox homeostasis were observed in hemolymph and tissues of lgl flies, but had restored close to normalcy in melatonin‐treated flies. Carbohydrates including glucose, trehalose, and glycogen were decreased and increased in the hemolymph and tissues of lgl and melatonin‐treated lgl flies, respectively. Key enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism showed a significant increment in their levels in lgl mutants but had restored close to wild‐type baseline levels in melatonin‐treated flies. Variables of lipid metabolism showed significantly inverse levels in hemolymph and tissues of lgl flies, while normalization of most of these variables was observed in melatonin‐treated mutants. Lipase, chitinase, transaminases, and alkaline phosphatase showed an increment in their activities and minerals exhibited decrement in lgl flies; reversal of changes was observed under melatonin treatment. The impairment of cognition, disturbance of redox homeostasis and metabolic reprogramming in lgl flies, and restoration of normalcy in all these cellular and behavioral processes indicate that melatonin could act as oncostatic and cytoprotective agents in Drosophila.
Cky811 protein expressed by polydnavirus and venom gland of Cotesia kariyai regulates the host Mythimna separata larvae immune response function of C‐type lectin responsible for foreign substance recognition which suppresses its melanization and encapsulation
Authors: Sawa Tomomi , Tanaka Toshiharu , Kato Yoshiaki , Nakamatsu Yutaka
Published: April 2021

Cotesia kariyai (Ck) larvae implanted into the body cavity of the Mythimna separata (armyworm) larvae get melanized and encapsulated after adhesion by hemocytes called hyperspread cells (HSCs). The present study showed that HSCs could not adhere to the implanted Ck larvae in armyworm larvae after injection of Ck polydnavirus (CkPDV) + venom (V), thus melanization and encapsulation could not occur. A C‐type lectin called Mys‐IML of the host armyworm larvae was considered to be involved in the recognition of foreign substances which always expressed in hemocytes. The CkPDV DNA encodes a C‐type lectin called Cky811 that has high amino acid homology to Mys‐IML. HSCs did not adhere when CkPDV + V was mixed with the hemolymph of armyworm larvae on glass slides and incubated in vitro, but the addition of anti‐Cky811 antibody enabled HSCs to adhere. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of Mys‐IML in armyworm larvae injected with CkPDV + V became undetectable by 6 h. On the contrary, Cky811 mRNA was well expressed in the hemocytes of armyworm larvae injected with CkPDV + V from 0.5 to 6 h. Cky811 protein was also detected in the crude extracts from Ck venom gland + Ck venom reservoir, suggesting that these proteins regulate foreign substance recognition by the armyworm within 0.5 h. These results suggest that CkPDV + V suppresses mRNA expression of Mys‐IML, and that Cky811 protein expressed in hemocytes regulates foreign substance recognition of Mys‐IML, resulting in inhibition of the downstream reaction steps: HSCs adhesion, melanization, and encapsulation.
Necessary and sufficient condition for global controllability of nonlinear systems
Authors: Liu YuanYuan , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2021

This paper concerns the global controllability of general nonlinear control systems, which is intimately related to their defining vector fields. We give a necessary and sufficient condition by studying how to enlarge the defining set of vector fields without changing its controllability. Four such approaches are obtained. First, for a given set of vector fields, if one of them is reversible, then the images of these given vector fields under the flow of it can be included without changing the controllability. Second, if two of them are reversible, then their Lie bracket can be included to the given set without changing its controllability. Third, the controllability of a given set of vector fields is preserved by positive span. Finally, the controllability of a given set of vector fields is preserved under closure. For a given nonlinear control system, its controllability is determined as follows. Begin with the defining set of vector fields, step by step, we enlarge it by the aforementioned approaches until its controllability can be readily verified. The power of the proposed approaches is demonstrated by examples.
Prosociality and hoarding amid the COVID‐19 pandemic: A tale of four countries
Authors: Tse Dwight C. K. , Lau Vienne W. , Hong Ying‐yi , Bligh Michelle C. , Kakarika Maria
Published: April 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic is an unprecedented public health crisis that poses a challenge to humanity. Drawing on the stress and coping literature, we argue that people around the world alleviate their anxiety and stress induced by the pandemic through both prosocial and ‘self‐interested’ hoarding behaviours. This cross‐cultural survey study examined the pushing (threat perception) and pulling (moral identity) factors that predicted prosocial acts and hoarding, and subsequently psychological well‐being. Data were collected from 9 April to 14 May 2020 from 251 participants in the United Kingdom (UK), 268 in the United States (US), 197 in Germany (DE), and 200 in Hong Kong (HK). Whereas threat perception was associated positively with both prosocial acts and hoarding, benevolent moral identity was associated positively with the former but not the latter behaviour. We also observed cross‐cultural differences, such that both effects were stronger in more individualistic (UK, US) countries than less individualistic (HK, DE) ones. The findings shed light on the prosocial vs. self‐interested behavioural responses of people in different cultures towards the same pandemic crisis.
The mental health benefits of community helping during crisis: Coordinated helping, community identification and sense of unity during theCOVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Bowe Mhairi , Wakefield Juliet R. H. , Kellezi Blerina , Stevenson Clifford , McNamara Niamh , Jones Bethany A. , Sumich Alex , Heym Nadja
Published: April 2021

Communities are vital sources of support during crisis, providing collective contexts for shared identity and solidarity that predict supportive, prosocial responses. The COVID‐19 pandemic has presented a global health crisis capable of exerting a heavy toll on the mental health of community members while inducing unwelcome levels of social disconnection. Simultaneously, lockdown restrictions have forced vulnerable community members to depend upon the support of fellow residents. Fortunately, voluntary helping can be beneficial to the well‐being of the helper as well as the recipient, offering beneficial collective solutions. Using insights from social identity approaches to volunteering and disaster responses, this study explored whether the opportunity to engage in helping fellow community members may be both unifying and beneficial for those engaging in coordinated community helping. Survey data collected in the UK during June 2020 showed that coordinated community helping predicted the psychological bonding of community members by building a sense of community identification and unity during the pandemic, which predicted increased well‐being and reduced depression and anxiety. Implications for the promotion and support of voluntary helping initiatives in the context of longer‐term responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic are provided. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article'sCommunity and Social Impact Statement.
The social cohesion investment: Communities that invested in integration programmes are showing greater social cohesion in the midst of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Lalot Fanny , Abrams Dominic , Broadwood Jo , Davies Hayon Kaya , Platts‐Dunn Isobel
Published: April 2021

Social cohesion can rise in the aftermath of natural disasters or mass tragedies, but this ‘coming together’ is often short‐lived. The early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic witnessed marked increases in kindness and social connection, but as months passed social tensions re‐emerged or grew anew. Thus local authorities faced persistent and evolving challenges. A cross‐sectional survey (N = 2,924) examined perceptions of social cohesion while Britain was slowly emerging from its first national lockdown in June 2020 in six English local authorities that have prioritised investment in social cohesion over the last two years (including five ‘integration areas’) compared with three other areas that have not. We expected that social cohesion programmes would better equip people to tackle the various challenges of the COVID‐19 pandemic. We found a greater sense of social cohesion in the six local authorities (at the micro, meso and macro levels) than in other areas. This was manifested as higher levels of reported social activism, interpersonal trust and closer personal relationships, greater political trust and more positive attitudes towards immigrants. Findings are consistent with the proposition that investing in social cohesion underpins stronger and more connected and open communities, better able to cope with crisis situations.
Biosensitive and antibacterial coatings on metallic material for medical applications
Authors: Goldmann Wolfgang H.
Published: April 2021

Metallic materials are commonly used for load‐bearing implants and as internal fixation devices. It is customary to use austenitic stainless steel, especially surgical grade type 316L SS as temporary and Ti alloys as permanent implants. However, long‐term, poor bonding with bone, corrosion, and release of metal ions, such as chromium and nickel occur. These ions are powerful allergens and carcinogens and their uncontrolled leaching may be avoided by surface coatings. Therefore, bioactive glasses (BGs) became a vital biomedical material, which can form a biologically active phase of hydroxycarbonate apatite on their surface when in contact with physiological fluids. To reduce the high coefficient of friction and the brittle nature of BGs, polymers are normally incorporated to avoid the high‐temperature sintering/densification of ceramic‐only coatings. For medical application, electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is now used for polymer (organic) and ceramic (inorganic) components at room temperature due to its simplicity, control of coating thickness and uniformity, low cost of equipment, ability to coat substrates of intricate shape and to supply thick films in composite form, high purity of deposits as well as no phase transformation during coating. Although extensive research has been conducted on polymer/inorganic composite coatings, only some studies have reported multifunctional properties, such as biological antibacterial activity, enhanced cell adhesion, controlled drug release ability, and mechanical properties. This review will focus on biodegradable coatings, including zien, chitosan, gelatin, cellulose loaded with antibacterial drugs/metallic ions/natural herbs on biostable substrates (PEEK/PMMA/PCL/PLLA layers), which have the potential of multifunctional coating for metallic implants.
Deteriorating insulin resistance due to WL15 peptide from cysteine and glycine‐rich protein 2 in high glucose‐induced rat skeletal muscle L6 cells
Authors: Guru Ajay , Issac Praveen Kumar , Saraswathi N. T. , Seshadri Vidya Devanathadesikan , Gabr Gamal A , Arockiaraj Jesu
Published: April 2021

This study investigates the antioxidant and antidiabetic activity of the WL15 peptide derived from Channa striatus on regulating the antioxidant property in the rat skeletal muscle cell line (L6) and enhancing glucose uptake via glucose metabolism. Increased oxidative stress plays a major role in the development of diabetes and its complications. Strategies are needed to mitigate the oxidative stress that can reduce these pathogenic processes. Our results showed that with treatment with WL15 peptide, the reactive oxygen species significantly decreased in L6 myotubes in a dose‐dependent manner, and increased antioxidant enzymes help to prevent the formation of lipid peroxidation in L6 myotubes. The cytotoxicity of WL15 is evaluated in the L6 cells and found to be non‐cytotoxic at the tested concentration. Also, for the analysis of glucose uptake activity in L6 cells, the 2‐(N‐[7‐nitrobenz‐2‐oxa‐1,3‐diazol‐4‐yl]amino)‐2‐deoxy‐
d
‐glucose assay was performed in the presence of wortmannin and genistein inhibitors. WL15 demonstrated antidiabetic activities through a dose‐dependent increase in glucose uptake (64%) and glycogen storage (7.8 mM). The optimal concentration for the maximum activity was found to be 50 µM. In addition, studies of gene expression in L6 myotubes demonstrated upregulation of antioxidant genes and genes involved in the pathway of insulin signaling. In cell‐based assays, WL15 peptide decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and demonstrated insulin mimic activity by enhancing the primary genes involved in the insulin signaling pathway by increased glucose uptake indicating that glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) is regulated from the intracellular pool to the plasma membrane.
The role of autophagy in controlling SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: An overview on virophagy‐mediated molecular drug targets
Authors: Sargazi Saman , Sheervalilou Roghayeh , Rokni Mohsen , Shirvaliloo Milad , Shahraki Omolbanin , Rezaei Nima
Published: April 2021

Autophagy‐dependent cell death is a prominent mechanism that majorly contributes to homeostasis by maintaining the turnover of organelles under stressful conditions. Several viruses, including coronaviruses (CoVs), take advantage of cellular autophagy to facilitate their own replication. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is a beta‐coronavirus (β‐CoVs) that mediates its replication through a dependent or independent ATG5 pathway using specific double‐membrane vesicles that can be considered as similar to autophagosomes. With due attention to several mutations in NSP6, a nonstructural protein with a positive regulatory effect on autophagosome formation, a potential correlation between SARS‐CoV‐2 pathogenesis mechanisms and autophagy can be expected. Certain medications, albeit limited in number, have been indicated to negatively regulate autophagy flux, potentially in a way similar to the inhibitory effect of β‐CoVs on the process of autophagy. However, there is no conclusive evidence to support their direct antagonizing effect on CoVs. Off‐target accumulation of a major fraction of FDA‐approved autophagy modulating drugs may result in adverse effects. Therefore, medications that have modulatory effects on autophagy could be considered as potential lead compounds for the development of new treatments against this virus. This review discusses the role of autophagy/virophagy in controlling SARS‐CoV‐2, focusing on the potential therapeutic implications.
The validation of the dual antiplatelet therapy score in East Asians receiving percutaneous coronary intervention with exclusively second generation drug‐eluting stents
Authors: Kim Minkwan , Park Kyung Woo , Lee Hak Seung , Ki You‐Jeong , Kang Jeehoon , Kim Chee‐Hoon , Han Jung‐Kyu , Yang Han‐Mo , Kang Hyun‐Jae , Koo Bon‐Kwon , Kim Hyo‐Soo
Published: April 2021

Objectives

We investigated whether the dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) score (DS) predicts clinical outcome in an East‐Asian population that received exclusively second generation drug‐eluting stent (DES).

Backgrounds

It is uncertain whether the DS could adequately risk stratify patients exclusively receiving second generation DES.

Methods

From the Grand‐DES registry, we evaluated patients who were treated with DAPT for at least 12 months and were event‐free at 12 months after DES implantation. Patients were classified into two categories: high DS (≧2) (n = 3,157); and low DS (<2) (n = 5,226). The primary ischemic outcome was a composite of stent thrombosis and all myocardial infarction (MI), and the primary bleeding outcome was TIMI major or minor bleeding. A propensity score (PS)‐matched analysis was done to correct for baseline differences between extended DAPT group and the conventional group.

Results

Among 8,383 subjects, the primary ischemic outcome occurred in 48 patients (0.6%) and the primary bleeding outcome in 49 patients (0.6%). High DS was associated with a higher incidence of ischemic events (ischemic outcome: 0.8% vs. 0.4%, for high vs. low DS, Log‐rank p = .039), but not with any differences in bleeding events (Log‐rank p = .734). In the PS‐matched analysis, extended group was associated with lower risk of composite endpoint of MI, stent thrombosis, or cardiac death in only the high DS group (1.8% vs. 3.7%, Log‐rank p = .004; hazard ratio 0.45, 95% confidence interval 0.27–0.76; p = .003 after adjustment).

Conclusions

The DS was an adequate risk stratifier for future ischemic events in East Asians receiving exclusively second generation DES.