bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Educational graphic tool for teaching fundamentals of digital image representation
Authors: Fresnedo Óscar , Laport Francisco , Castro Paula M. , Dapena Adriana 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIn the last few decades, different teaching methodologies have been proposed to promote more active learning of students. However, it is still essential to understand the practical implications of the theoretical concepts incorporating additional methodologies, for example, problem‐based learning. This methodology could include practises focused on students' programming or on using appropriate software tools. For more meaningful learning, the use of a graphic tool instead of programming provides more insight into those concepts throughout a simple and practical resource. Taking this into account, a software tool has been developed in addition to theoretical sessions in the context of a subject of the Degree in Computer Science, where the learning objectives are related to the representation and compression of multimedia content. In addition, this tool allows to configure useful exercises for these practical sessions, such that students can experiment and analyse the results from a visual perspective. The results of the surveys show a high degree of satisfaction of students, who highlight that the tool has helped them to better understand the curriculum content. In addition, there are signs of improvement in the academic results corresponding to the evaluation of performance with such software.
Severe hemolysis and vaso‐occlusive crisis due to COVID‐19 infection in a sickle cell disease patient improved after red blood cell exchange
Authors: Okar Lina , Rezek Mohamad , Gameil Amna , Mulikandayhil Yahya , Yassin Mohamed A. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractEven though most data suggest favorable outcome in patients with SCD and COVID‐19 infection, close monitoring remains essential as acute complication may develop unexpectedly. Offering RBC exchange early in the course of infection might improve prognosis.
Combination of convalescent plasma therapy and repurposed drugs to treat severe COVID‐19 patient with multimorbidity
Authors: Das Santa Kumar , Ranabhat Kamal , Bhattarai Suraj , Karki Khem Bahadur , Gyanwali Pradip , Paneru Hem Raj , Nepal Bipin , Dumre Shyam Prakash , Acharya Subhash Prasad 
Published: February 2021

AbstractCombination of convalescent plasma therapy and repurposed drugs such as dexamethasone and remdesivir could be beneficial for severe COVID‐19 patients with obesity and chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
Understanding Mechanistic Differences between 3‐Diazoindolin‐2‐Imines and N‐Sulfonyl‐1,2,3‐Triazoles in the Rh2(II)‐Catalyzed Reactions with Nitrosoarenes
Authors: Fu Rui , Kou Luyao , Gao Ke , Zhou Shaofang , Bao Xiaoguang 
Published: February 2021

Main observation and conclusionThe employment of α‐iminometallocarbenes to construct valuable N‐containing compounds has attracted significant research interest. Herein, the nucleophilic addition of nitrosoarenes with the α‐imino rhodium carbene species (I), which is derived from Rh2(II)‐catalyzed denitrogenation of 3‐diazoindolin‐2‐imines, to produce synthetically useful 2‐iminoindolin‐nitrones is described. Mechanistically, the N‐attack of nitrosoarenes with the carbene site of I is proposed. For the analogous Rh2(II)‐catalyzed reaction of nitrosoarenes with N‐sulfonyl‐1,2,3‐triazoles reported by Li and co‐workers (Org. Lett. 2014, 16, 6394), however, the O‐attack of nitrosoarenes with the carbene site of α‐imino rhodium carbene species (II) is more favorable to occur than the N‐attack. The subsequent transformation to yield the product of N‐acylamidines is rationalized based on computational studies. The mechanistic differences for the reactions of nitrosoarenes with α‐imino rhodium carbene species I and II are discussed.
A haptic particle model of the air – Development, usage and experience in science lessons
Authors: Schäfer Benjamin 
Published: February 2021

AbstractDer Artikel stellt nicht nur eine praktische Idee für ein gegenständliches, dreidimensionales Teilchenmodell (hier am Beispiel der Luft) dar, sondern nennt auch grundlegende Aspekte in Bezug auf das Zusammenspiel von naturwissenschaftlichem Unterricht und Teilchenmodellen. Ferner wird im Artikel die didaktische Einbettung in den naturwissenschaftlichen Sachunterricht sowie die Erfahrung des Autors aus der Unterrichtspraxis betrachtet. Das Modell wurde in erster Linie für die Anwendung im Primarbereich entwickelt und eignet sich zudem auch für den naturwissenschaftlichen Unterricht zu Beginn der Sekundarstufe I.Durch das einfache Teilchenmodell, das auf chemisch‐physikalischen Grundlagen basiert, werden die Schüler*innen schon frühzeitig an die interessante Welt der Naturwissenschaften herangeführt, was die Durchführung des Autors erahnen ließ. Das entwickelte Modell stellt eine anregende Idee für Lehrer*innen, Student*innen und Referendar*innen dar, da es einen nachhaltigen Lernerfolg vermuten lässt.
A “Golden Age” for the discovery of new antileishmanial agents: Current status of leishmanicidal gold complexes and prospective targets beyond the trypanothione system
Authors: Rosa Leticia B. , Aires Rochanna L. , Oliveira Laiane S. , Fontes Josielle V. , Miguel Danilo C. , Abbehausen Camilla 
Published: February 2021

AbstractLeishmaniasis is one of the most neglected diseases worldwide and is considered a serious public health issue. The current therapeutic options have several disadvantages that make the search for new therapeutics urgent. Gold compounds are emerging as promising candidates based on encouraging in vitro and limited in vivo results for several AuI and AuIII complexes. The antiparasitic mechanisms of these molecules remain only partially understood. However, a few studies have proposed the trypanothione redox system as a target, similar to the mammalian thioredoxin system, pointed out as the main target for several gold compounds with significant antitumor activity. In this review, we present the current status of the investigation and design of gold compounds directed at treating leishmaniasis. In addition, we explore potential targets in Leishmania parasites beyond the trypanothione system, taking into account previous studies and structure modulation performed for gold‐based compounds.
Strategies towards Targeting Gαi/s Proteins: Scanning of Protein‐Protein Interaction Sites To Overcome Inaccessibility
Authors: Nubbemeyer Britta , Pepanian Anna , Paul George Ajay Abisheck , Imhof Diana 
Published: February 2021

AbstractHeterotrimeric G proteins are classified into four subfamilies and play a key role in signal transduction. They transmit extracellular signals to intracellular effectors subsequent to the activation of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), which are targeted by over 30 % of FDA‐approved drugs. However, addressing G proteins as drug targets represents a compelling alternative, for example, when G proteins act independently of the corresponding GPCRs, or in cases of complex multifunctional diseases, when a large number of different GPCRs are involved. In contrast to Gαq, efforts to target Gαi/s by suitable chemical compounds has not been successful so far. Here, a comprehensive analysis was conducted examining the most important interface regions of Gαi/s with its upstream and downstream interaction partners. By assigning the existing compounds and the performed approaches to the respective interfaces, the druggability of the individual interfaces was ranked to provide perspectives for selective targeting of Gαi/s in the future.
Chromosome analysis and sorting
Authors: Doležel Jaroslav , Lucretti Sergio , Molnár István , Cápal Petr , Giorgi Debora 
Published: February 2021

AbstractFlow cytometric analysis and sorting of plant mitotic chromosomes has been mastered by only a few laboratories worldwide. Yet, it has been contributing significantly to progress in plant genetics, including the production of genome assemblies and the cloning of important genes. The dissection of complex genomes by flow sorting into the individual chromosomes that represent small parts of the genome reduces DNA sample complexity and streamlines projects relying on molecular and genomic techniques. Whereas flow cytometric analysis, that is, chromosome classification according to fluorescence and light scatter properties, is an integral part of any chromosome sorting project, it has rarely been used on its own due to lower resolution and sensitivity as compared to other cytogenetic methods. To perform chromosome analysis and sorting, commercially available electrostatic droplet sorters are suitable. However, in order to resolve and purify chromosomes of interest the instrument must offer high resolution of optical signals as well as stability during long runs. The challenge is thus not the instrumentation, but the adequate sample preparation. The sample must be a suspension of intact mitotic metaphase chromosomes and the protocol, which includes the induction of cell cycle synchrony, accumulation of dividing cells at metaphase, and release of undamaged chromosomes, is time consuming and laborious and needs to be performed very carefully. Moreover, in addition to fluorescent staining chromosomal DNA, the protocol may include specific labelling of DNA repeats to facilitate discrimination of particular chromosomes. This review introduces the applications of chromosome sorting in plants, and discusses in detail sample preparation, chromosome analysis and sorting to achieve the highest purity in flow‐sorted fractions, and their suitability for downstream applications.
Community science data suggests that urbanization and forest habitat loss threaten aphidophagous native lady beetles
Authors: Gardiner Mary M. , Perry Kayla I. , Riley Christopher B. , Turo Katherine J. , Delgado de la flor Yvan A. , Sivakoff Frances S. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractCommunity scientists have illustrated rapid declines of several aphidophagous lady beetle (Coccinellidae) species. These declines coincide with the establishment of alien coccinellids. We established the Buckeye Lady Beetle Blitz program to measure the seasonal occupancy of coccinellids within gardens across a wide range of landscape contexts. Following the Habitat Compression Hypothesis, we predicted that gardens within agricultural landscapes would be alien‐dominated, whereas captures of natives would be higher within landscapes encompassing a high concentration of natural habitat.Within the state of Ohio, USA, community scientists collected lady beetles for a 7‐day period across 4 years in June and August using yellow sticky card traps. All identifications were verified by professional scientists and beetles were classified by three traits: status (alien or native), mean body length, and primary diet. We compared the relative abundance and diversity of coccinellids seasonally and determined if the distribution of beetles by size, status, and diet was related to landscape features.Alien species dominated the aphidophagous fauna. Native aphidophagous coccinellid abundance was positively correlated with forest habitat while alien species were more common when gardens were embedded within agricultural landscapes. Urbanization was negatively associated with both aphidophagous alien and native coccinellids.Synthesis and Applications:Our census of native coccinellid species within residential gardens—a widespread and understudied habitat—was enabled by volunteers. These data will serve as an important baseline to track future changes within coccinellid communities within this region. We found that native coccinellid species richness and native aphidophagous coccinellid abundance in gardens were positively associated with forest habitat at a landscape scale of 2 km. However, our understanding of when and why (overwintering, summer foraging, or both) forest habitats are important remains unclear. Our findings highlight the need to understand how declining aphidophagous native species utilize forest habitats as a conservation priority.
Role of individual dispersal in genetic resilience in fluctuating populations of the gray‐sided vole Myodes rufocanus
Authors: Ishibashi Yasuyuki , Takahashi Kenichi 
Published: February 2021

AbstractPopulation densities of the gray‐sided vole Myodes rufocanus fluctuate greatly within and across years in Japan. Here, to investigate the role of individual dispersal in maintaining population genetic diversity, we examined how genetic diversity varied during fluctuations in density by analyzing eight microsatellite loci in voles sampled three times per year for 5 years, using two fixed trapping grids (approximately 0.5 ha each). At each trapping session, all captured voles at each trapping grid were removed. The STRUCTURE program was used to analyze serially collected samples to examine how population crashes were related to temporal variability, based on local‐scale genetic compositions in each population. In total, 461 and 527 voles were captured at each trapping grid during this study. The number of voles captured during each trapping session (i.e., vole density) varied considerably at both grids. Although patterns in fluctuations were not synchronized between grids, the peak densities were similar. At both grids, the mean allele number recorded at each trapping session was strongly, positively, and nonlinearly correlated with density. STRUCTURE analyses revealed that the proportions of cluster compositions among individuals at each grid differed markedly before and after the crash phase, implying the long‐distance dispersal of voles from remote areas at periods of low density. The present results suggest that, in gray‐sided vole populations, genetic diversity varies with density largely at the local scale; in contrast, genetic variation in a metapopulation is well‐preserved at the regional scale due to the density‐dependent dispersal behaviors of individuals. By influencing the dispersal patterns of individuals, fluctuations in density affect metapopulation structure spatially and temporally, while the levels of genetic diversity are preserved in a metapopulation.
Differences in cell death in methionine versus cysteine depletion
Authors: Wallis Katherine F. , Morehead Lauren C. , Bird Jordan T. , Byrum Stephanie D. , Miousse Isabelle R. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractRestriction of the sulfur amino acids methionine and cysteine has recently been proposed as potential adjuvant therapy in cancer. While cysteine depletion has been associated with ferroptotic cell death, methionine depletion has not. We hypothesized that comparing the response of melanoma cell lines to depletion of the amino acids methionine and cysteine would give us insight into the critical role in cancer of these two closely related amino acids. We analyzed the response to three conditions: methionine depletion, methionine replacement with homocysteine, and cysteine depletion. In cancer cells, the transcription factor ATF4 was induced by all three tested conditions. The replacement of methionine with homocysteine produced a strong ferroptotic gene signature. We also detected an activation of the NRF2 antioxidant pathway by both methionine and cysteine depletion. Total glutathione levels were decreased by 42% in melanoma cells grown without methionine, and by 95% in cells grown without cysteine. Lipid peroxidation was increased in cells grown without cysteine, but not in cells grown without methionine. Despite the large degree of overlap in gene expression between methionine and cysteine depletion, methionine depletion and replacement of methionine with homocysteine was associated with apoptosis while cysteine depletion was associated with ferroptosis. Glutamine depletion produced comparable gene expression patterns and was associated with a 28% decrease in glutathione. Apoptosis was detected in these cells. In this experiment, a strong ATF4‐driven ferroptotic gene signature was insufficient to induce ferroptosis without a concomitant profound decrease in glutathione levels.
Self‐standing hard carbon anode derived from hyper‐linked nanocellulose with high cycling stability for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Li Yan , Du Yi‐Feng , Sun Guo‐Hua , Cheng Jia‐Yao , Song Ge , Song Ming‐Xin , Su Fang‐Yuan , Yang Fan , Xie Li‐Jing , Chen Cheng‐Meng 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe utilization of binders has severely hindered ionic diffusion and electron transfer in the traditional lithium‐ion battery. Herein, a self‐standing hard carbon film using nanocellulose as precursor has been constructed as binder‐free electrodes via two‐step thermal treatment. The cyclization and aromatization of small molecular fragments promote the formation of hyper‐crosslinked framework with abundant welded junctions. Importantly, carbon nanofibers not only serve as an inter‐connected conductive network for fast electron transfer, but also as an interlinked mechanical skeleton for convenient Li+ diffusion and electrode structural stability. Furthermore, the optimized carbon film, with accessible redox‐active carbonyl groups (CO) and abundant micropores, is beneficial for Li+ accommodation. It exhibits high reversible capacity of 513.1 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1 and excellent cycle stability to extend over 1000 cycles without signs of decay. This study provides an efficient strategy for the design of high‐performance biomass‐derived anode materials with stable‐structure for alkaline batteries.image
The Risk of Fractures in Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Narayanan Niya , Palui Rajan , Merugu Chandhana , Kar Sitanshu Sekhar , Kamalanathan Sadishkumar , Sahoo Jayaprakash , Selvarajan Sandhiya , Naik Dukhabandhu 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACTPrimary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) is a common metabolic bone disease affecting 1% of the adult population. Patients with PHPT have reduced BMD, especially at the cortical bone. However, studies evaluating its impact on fracture risk have shown contradictory results. In an effort to further inform fracture risk for this patient population, a meta‐analysis of studies of fracture in patients with PHPT compared with a control population was undertaken. Articles were searched in PubMed/MEDLINE, Excerpta Medica, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, and Web of Science bibliographic databases. The meta‐analysis included 17 studies involving 3807 PHPT cases and 11,908 controls. The primary outcome was to determine the risk of vertebral fracture (VF), nonvertebral fracture, hip fracture, distal radius fracture, and total fracture (TF) among patients with PHPT in comparison with a control population. BMD (lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip, and distal radius) and serum 25‐hydroxy vitamin D level, as well as possible predictors of VF as secondary outcomes were assessed. From this meta‐analysis, it was found that there was a significantly increased risk of VF (risk ratio [RR], 2.57; 95% CI, 1.3–5.09; p = 0.007) and TF (RR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.48–1.97; p < 0.00001) in patients with PHPT. There was a significant decrease in BMD in patients with PHPT versus controls at all four sites. Older age, longer duration since menopause, and lower BMD at lumbar spine and distal radius were predictors for VF. To conclude, patients with PHPT had a significantly higher risk for VF and TF in comparison with controls. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A matched cohort study of convalescent plasma therapy for COVID‐19
Authors: Sostin Oleg V. , Rajapakse Pramuditha , Cruser Brigid , Wakefield Dorothy , Cruser Daniel , Petrini Joann 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIntroductionCOVID‐19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), is a public health crisis. Prior studies demonstrated successful use of convalescent plasma therapy for treatment of other viral illnesses. Our primary objective was to evaluate treatment efficacy of convalescent plasma in patients with COVID‐19.Materials and MethodsIn this retrospective matched cohort study, we enrolled recipients of convalescent plasma collected from donors recovered from laboratory‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection under the single patient eIND process. We individually matched 35 cases with 61 controls based on age, gender, supplemental oxygen requirements, and C‐reactive protein level at the time of hospital admission. We compared the outcomes of in‐hospital mortality and hospital length of stay between the groups.ResultsIn‐hospital mortality was 20% among the cases and 24.6% among the controls (P = .61). A multivariable logistic regression model that included age, gender, duration of symptoms, need for mechanical ventilation, and pharmacologic interventions revealed no significant difference in mortality by study group (P = .71). The median length of stay was significantly greater among convalescent plasma recipients compared with controls, 10 (IQR, 6‐17) vs 7 (IQR, 4‐11) days, P < .01. The difference was not significant after controlling for covariates (P > .1).ConclusionsWe did not find convalescent plasma reduced in‐hospital mortality in our sample, nor did it reduce length of stay. Further investigation is warranted to determine the efficacy of this treatment in patients with COVID‐19, particularly early in the disease process.
Association of different Candida species with catheter‐related candidemia, and the potential antifungal treatments against their adhesion properties and biofilm‐forming capabilities
Authors: Zuo Xiao‐shu , Liu Yanan , Cai Xuan , Zhan Liying , Hu Ke 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundTo compare the adhesion properties and biofilm‐forming capabilities of 27 Candida isolates obtained from catheter‐related candidemia patients and to evaluate the inhibitory effects of antifungal agents on different Candida species.Material and MethodsSeven C. albicans, six C. parapsilosis, five C. guilliermondii, five C. tropicalis, and four C. glabrata clinical isolates were investigated. We quantified the adherence of these Candida species by flow cytometric method and evaluated the formation of biofilms by XTT reduction and crystal violet methods. Actions of micafungin (MF), fluconazole (FZ), and N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) on the adhesion and biofilm formation of different Candida species were determined.ResultsNon‐albicans Candida species were demonstrated to have stronger adhesion abilities compared with C. albicans. The biofilm‐forming capabilities of different Candida species were varied considerably, and the degree of biofilm formation might be affected by different assay approaches. Interestingly, C. parapsilosis displayed the highest biofilm formation abilities, while C. glabrata exhibited the lowest total biomass and metabolic activity. Furthermore, the inhibitory activities of MF, FZ, and NAC on fungal adhesion and biofilm formation were evaluated, and the results indicated that MF could reduce the adhesion ability and biofilm metabolism more significantly (p < 0.05), and its antifungal activity was elevated in a dose‐dependent manner.ConclusionNon‐albicans Candida species, especially C. guilliermondii, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis, exhibited higher adhesion ability in catheter‐related candidemia patients. However, these Candida species had varied biofilm‐forming capabilities. MF tended to have stronger inhibitory effects against both adhesion and biofilm formation of different Candida species.