bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wiedergabe des Modalverbs sollen in den deutschen Dialekten Nordmährens.
Authors: Muzikant Mojmír
Published: March 2021

Gegenstand der Untersuchung ist die mundartliche Wiedergabe des Modalverbs sollen in den deutschen Mundarten Nordmährens. Als Quelle wurden die Fragebücher zur Erstellung des Sprachatlasses der deutschen historischen Dialekte in der Tschechischen Republik herangezogen. Von dem Paradigma des untersuchten Verbs wurden folgende Wortformen berücksichtigt: 1. und 3. Pers. Sg. Indik. Präs. und 3. Pers. Plur. Indik. Präs. sowie der Konjunktiv Präteritum in der 2. und 3. Pers. Sg. Anhand des festgestellten räumlich verteilten Formenbestandes kann der untersuchte Sprachraum in drei Teilgebiete unterteilt werden: Östlicher Teil (Neu-Titschein, Troppau, Fulnek, Odrau usw.), Nordwestlicher Teil (Freudenthal, Jägerndorf usw.) und Westlicher Teil (Römerstadt, Mährisch Schönberg usw.). Beim Vergleich der beschriebenen Formenvielfalt mit dem entsprechenden Formenbestand des unmittelbar angrenzenden Schönhengsts fällt auf, dass die in Nordmähren eher isoliert vorkommenden e-Formen bzw. Formen mit anlautendem postalveolaren Spiranten im Schönhengst relativ weit verbreitet sind. Beim Vergleich mit der frnhd. Geschäftssprache in Mähren kann trotz aller Unterschiede eine gemeinsame Tendenz beobachtet werden. Die s-Schreibung im Anlaut nimmt in nördlicher Richtung zu, bis sie in Nordmähren zur einzigen Variante wird.
Zur Theorie der Poetik des Raumes in tschechischen und deutschen Märchen.
Authors: Ledinská Šárka
Published: March 2021

Den Schwerpunkt des vorliegenden Artikels bildet ein gegenwärtig viel beachtetes Thema der literarischen Theorie – die Poetik des Raumes in Märchen. Die Poetik des Raumes erweitert u. a. die Möglichkeiten der Interpretation literarischer Texte. Ziel des Beitrags ist es, auf Basis der Ergebnisse einer Diplomarbeit („Poetika prostoru v českých a německých pohádkách“ 2012) den Umfang des Begriffs ,Poetik des Raumes‘ detailliert zu analysieren, ihn gegen den Begriff ,Poetik des Werkes‘ abzugrenzen, eine langjährige Prämisse der Beziehung der Poetik des Raumes zur Poetik des Werkes in Frage zu stellen und Hinweise zur möglichen Verwendung der erbrachten Untersuchungsergebnisse im DaF-Unterricht zu geben.
Literarische Gestaltung des Grafen Albert Joseph Hoditz (1706-1778) im Drama von Jakob Michael Reinhold Lenz (1751-1792) „Der tugendhafte Taugenichts“.
Authors: Zlá Iveta
Published: March 2021

Die vorliegende Studie geht auf die Auseinandersetzung mit der literarischen Gestaltung der Figur des Grafen Albert Joseph Hoditz (1706-1778) in der zweiten Bearbeitung des Dramenfragments von Jakob Michael Reinhold Lenz „Der tugendhafte Taugenichts“ ein. Die Untersuchung wird vor dem Hintergrund der thematischen Akzente des Sturm und Drang vorgestellt, macht auf die Defizite in der Hoditz-Forschung aufmerksam und skizziert das kulturelle Engagement des Grafen Hoditz.
Des ‚Roten Krebses‘ Abschiedsmahnung Gelehrsamkeit, Ironie und Systemkritik auf einem Brünner Grabepitaph des 17. Jahrhunderts.
Authors: Blahak Boris
Published: March 2021

Der Beitrag beschäftigt sich mit einem bisher unbeachteten literarischen Denkmal des Deutschen in Brünn, das sich in der gotischen Hallenkirche St. Jakob befindet: das Grabepitaph des Ratsherrn Heinrich Nass (1649–1698), zu Lebzeiten Inhaber der Apotheke Zum roten Krebsen. Neben der Rekonstruktion der beschädigten gereimten Inschrift nimmt der Beitrag eine sprachliche und gattungsbezogene Einordnung vor, setzt die Bildsprache und Argumentationsmuster des Textes in Bezug zu verbreiteten Stilmerkmalen deutschsprachiger Barocklyrik und versucht eine Interpretation der von bürgerlicher Gelehrsamkeit, pointierter Ironie und spätbarockem Welttheater geprägten anonymen Verse. Besondere Aufmerksamkeit wird dabei der Funktion des Metrumwechsels, des Codeswitchings sowie doppeldeutiger Sprecher/Text-Zuordnungen geschenkt. Abschließend erfolgen didaktische Überlegungen zur Verwendung des Grabepitaphs im Rahmen des (Brünner) Hochschulunterrichts Deutsch als Fremdsprache.
Prager Geschichte, Weltgeschichte und (inter-)kulturelle Identität:. Ota Filips Roman Café Slavia als Gegenstand der Auslandsgermanistik
Authors: Enzinger Julia
Published: March 2021

In Café Slavia stellt der mährische Autor Ota Filip die Geschichte Prags als Schauplatz der Weltgeschichte dar und kritisiert deren Aufarbeitungsprozess. Mit der Lebensgeschichte eines österreichischen Adligen und dessen problematischer Identitätssuche in der multikulturellen Prager Gesellschaft diskutiert Filip die ambivalente Entwicklung der tschechischen Kultur und deren Verbindung zur Kultur und Geschichte Deutschlands. Der erste Teil des Artikels bietet eine literaturwissenschaftliche Untersuchung des Romans, die Filips Botschaft einer gemeinsamen, zukunftsorientierten Aufarbeitung der Geschichte herausarbeitet. Im zweiten Teil wird anhand eines interkulturellen Semesterprojekts zu Café Slavia – als einem Produkt sowohl der tschechischen als auch der deutschen Kultur – gezeigt, wie diese Botschaft in der Auslandsgermanistik umgesetzt werden kann.
Kant’s Pre-critical Ontology and Environmental Philosophy
Authors: Vereb Zachary ,   International Association for Environmental Philosophy
Published: March 2021

In this paper I argue that Kant’s pre-critical ontology, though generally dismissed by environmental philosophers, provides ecological lessons by way of its metaphysical affinities with environmental philosophy. First, I reference where environmental philosophy tends to place Kant and highlight his relative marginalization. This marginalization makes sense given focus on his critical works. I then outline Kant’s pre-critical ontological framework and characterize the ways in which it is ecological. Finally, I conclude with some ecological reflections on the pre-critical philosophy and its possible relevance for contemporary environmental issues.
The Impact of Privatisation on the Forms of Employment: The Example of the Poviat Hospital
Authors:   University of Szczecin, Poland, Romanowska Mirela , Kowalik Joanna
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The aim of the article was to show the impact of privatisation on the forms of employment of medical staff on the example of the poviat hospital. The proper functioning of any organisation, including a healthcare entity, requires having and maintaining the staff capable of guaranteeing the implementation of its objectives. Design/methodology/approach: The article uses the following research methods: a literature review, the method of economic analysis, qualitative and quantitative analyses and the method of deduction in the inference phase. Findings: The results of the research are the basis for the conclusions supporting the validity of introducing the possibility of concluding subcontracts with medical staff, which allows entities to flexibly organise work in the situation of a shortage of physicians. Research limitations/implications: This is associated with certain financial implications, but at the same time it is more efficient in terms of using the existing human resources and it gives greater opportunities to provide a higher quality of medical services to more patients. Originality/value: The privatisation process in the Polish healthcare sector seems to have been necessary and it has shown that it is worth undertaking such measures, if for no other reason than to improve patients’ treatment standards. The results of the research carried out in this field show that transforming hospitals into private institutions is a good move.
Web-Based Communication With a Patient in Hospital Care in Szczecin – Comparative Analysis of 2014 and 2018
Authors:   University of Szczecin, Poland, Soboń Magdalena
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The purpose is to assess the level and quality of e-communication of Szczecin’s entities providing hospital care and to compare the results in order to determine the differences and to indicate the changes occurring over time. Design/methodology/approach: The analysis covered the contents of the websites of all hospitals in Szczecin in 2014 and 2018. The desk research was carried out in the form of expert method done on the basis of the assessment criteria important from the patient’s point of view, treating the hospital’s website as a communication channel. These included identification issues, legibility, usefulness of information, forms of contact and modern e-communication. Findings: The level of communication differs a lot. It is slightly higher than in the past, but given the real needs in this respect, is not satisfactory. The best evaluation results concern the issue of identification of the entity. The situation is bad as regards the possibility of communication and the use of modern forms of e-communication. Only some of the hospitals have developed in the field of e-communication with the patient in a noticeable way, the rest have achieved little compared to the previous research period. Research limitations/implications: The study only focused on hospitals in the city of Szczecin. To get a complete picture, the analysis should cover the content of other hospitals’ websites from various localisations – bigger and smaller, more and less known. In order to understand the situation in the whole healthcare sector, it would be worth looking at other medical service providers. Originality/value: The conducted research shows how poorly developed are modern communication tools in hospitals, at the same time indicating the development directions in this area. The defined criteria can be applied to the study of websites of various providers on the healthcare market.
Whistle-Blowing Systems in the Indonesian Ministry of Health: An Evidence of Health Law Reform in Developing Country
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Rizqulloh Lutfiyah , Haikal . , Isworo Slamet
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: The current whistleblowing system has not been proven to help limit unethical behavior in organizations. This study examines the influence of the whistleblowing system in the Ministry of Health's civil servants on organizational commitment, organizational culture, whistleblower protection, professional attitudes, internal reporting, external reporting, anonymity, and use of hotlines.

Methodology: This research was conducted at the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. This study used a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. Sampling was carried out using probability sampling techniques with proportional random sampling. The sample population consisted of 98 people at the Directorate General of Health Development, Human Resources Development and Empowerment of the Ministry of Health, the Directorate General of Disease Control and Prevention, and the Directorate General of Pharmacy and Health. Data analysis was performed using chi-square and logistic regression.

Results: The results obtained indicate that the intentions of State Civil Servants within the Ministry of Health are related to their perceptions of professionalism and internal reporting.

Conclusion: The employees' perceptions of external and anonymous reporting are not related to the purpose of the whistleblowing system for employees of the Ministry of Health's State Civil Apparatus.

Suggestion: It is recommended that the Inspectorate General of the Ministry of Health move the reporting mechanism into the Ministry of Health Whistleblowing System application for easy access so that the Inspectorate General establishes standard operating procedures on legal protection and clarification for whistleblowers.
Determinants of Water-funded Projects in Mitigating Water Risks in Vihiga County, Kenya
Authors: Oketch James M. , Mugalavai Edward M. , Nyandiko Nicodemus O.
Published: March 2021

Currently, 85 per cent of the world’s human  population lives in the drier half of the Earth, which exacerbates the water risks including lack of access to safe water, poor basic sanitation and water-related disasters and diseases. Vihiga County is located in the western region of Kenya (former western province). The county covers a total area of 531.0 Km2. This paper examines the impact of water related risks on the livelihood of residents in Vihiga County. The study used evaluation research design. A sample size of 384 households was used to obtain data from the households. Sampling technique comprised of multistage sampling for the households, Quota sampling for the Focus Group Discussions and purposive sampling for the Key Informants. Primary data was gathered by use of questionnaires, Key Informant Interview guides, observation checklists and Focus Group Discussions. Secondary data was collected by use of publications, journals, and internet access. Quantitative data was analysed using Microsoft excel, and Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 20.0. Results reveal that majority of the household respondents had experienced different forms of water related risks including, water pollution at 42%, inadequate water infrastructure 32%, poor water governance 10%, water scarcity 7% and environmental flows at 4% respectively. The study established that the existing Water Funded Projects (WFPs) initiatives include protected water springs at 31%, water kiosks 21%, boreholes at 18%, open wells 14 %, rain water harvesting at 12% while 4% of household respondents had piped water. The results (X25, 0.05=69.76; p-value=0.000) indicating that Water Funded Projects (WFPs) initiatives have positively influenced reduction in water related risks.
Literature Review on Epidemiological Modelling, Spatial Modelling and Artificial Intelligence for COVID-19
Authors: Saraee Danial , Silva Charith
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Following the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China in December 2019, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this infectious disease as a pandemic. Unlike previous infectious outbreaks such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle Eastern Respiratory syndrome (MERS), the high transmission rate of COVID-19 has resulted in worldwide spread. The countries with the highest recorded incidence and mortality rates are the US and UK.

Rationale/Objective: This review will compare studies that have used epidemiological models for disease forecasting and other models that have identified sociodemographic factors associated with COVID-19. We will evaluate several models, from basic equation-based mathematical models to more advanced machine-learning ones. Our expectation is that by identifying high impact models used by policy makers and discussing their limitations, we can identify possible areas for future research.

Evidence Review: The bibliographic database google scholar was used to search keywords such as ‘COVID-19’, ‘epidemiological modelling’ and ‘machine learning’. We examined data review articles, research studies and government-released articles.

Results: We identified that the current SEIR model used by the UK government lacked the spatial modelling to enable an accurate prediction of disease spread. We discussed that machine-learning systems which can identify high-risk groups can be used to establish the disparities in COVID-19 death in BAME groups. We found that most of the data hungry AI models used were limited by the lack of datasets available.

Conclusion: In conclusion, advances in AI methods for infectious disease have overcome challenges presented in mathematical models. Whilst limitations do exist, when optimised, these highly advanced models have a great potential in public health surveillance, particularly infectious disease transmission.
Prevalence and Pattern of Modern Contraceptive Choices among Women of Reproductive Age 15-49 Years in a Community Health Facility: An Eight Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Damilola Akinwale Oladayo , Olufunke Akinbade Musiliat , Deborah Ogunsina Ibukunoluwa , Adebowale Akinwale Akinwumi
Published: March 2021

Aims: Utilization of modern contraception to prevent pregnancies is a unique health intervention as unplanned pregnancies expose women to additional health risks and lifetime risk of maternal mortality by increasing the number of lifetime pregnancies and deliveries. This study therefore aims at evaluating the prevalence and pattern of modern contraceptive choices among women of reproductive age and to identify the most commonly used modern contraceptives.

Study Design: Retrospective study carried out at family planning clinic of Community Health Centre, Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, South-West Nigeria between January 2013 to December 2020.

Methodology: The clients who had attended family planning clinic for modern contraceptive services during the period of eight (8) years were identified from clinic register. Their case files were retrieved and relevant data extracted with the use of standardized pro forma. Two hundred and twenty-two (222) case notes were available and suitable for analysis. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics of chi square and ANOVA.

Results: The result revealed highest prevalence of modern contraceptive utilization among young women with slight increase in rate of utilization as the age increases and decreases with older age. The most commonly utilized methods of contraception were Injectables: Noristerat and Depo-Provera; and IUCD. Result further showed significant relationship between age, number of children alive, breastfeeding status and desire to have more children and choice of modern contraceptive (P- value < 0.000).

Conclusion: Utilization of modern contraceptives can be improved through adequate public health education, thus, this study recommended that health education should be intensified at antenatal clinic, infant welfare clinic, religious places, market places and any place of public gathering.
A Cost Model for PV Based Renewable Energy Projects
Authors: El-Bayoumi M. A. , Ibrahim Marwa M.
Published: March 2021

The energy from renewable sources had always been perceived as free or at least lower-cost energy, with its sourcing from natural sources such as solar radiation and wind energy. In actual the cost breakdown of renewable energy would exceed that of traditional energy sources in almost all cases. This study attempts to produce a cost model for renewable energy systems. The model takes into account different requirements and site variations into account. In this paper, elements of the cost model Renewable Energy System (RES) especially, photo-voltaic solar systems, have been investigated. Cost items are presented alongside a to-do checklist for the new Photo-Voltaic (PV) solar energy system. The goal of this study is to construct a model that would cover the cost sources as well as bring to attention the unexpected sources of cost variations that include all possible cost items of a new solar renewable energy system. The feasibility of the new system is expressed in terms of Total Cost (T.C) and Cost of Energy (COE). The model can evaluate the feasibility of off-grid as well as on-grid systems. The model investigated properly as well as an empirical analysis and verified through results comparison with reviewed case studies. The results revealed that the cost of off-grid systems is higher than the cost of on-grid systems due to the cost of batteries as well as the cost of standby generators. So, it would be more feasible to use an off-grid system only in remote or isolated areas. Risk Cost lists, ranking and success factors of new renewable projects are exhibited.
Protective and Antitumor Effects of Oxidal and Pyrucet in Hamsters with Experimental Graffi Tumor
Authors: Toshkova Reneta , Ignatov Ignat , Gluhchev Georgi , Dinkov Georgi
Published: March 2021

The use of combination drug therapy instead of monotherapy is a new positive and promising approach in the treatment of cancer. Oxidal® and Pyrucet® are food supplements containing Methylene blue (USP), Caffeine (USP), Salicylic acid (USP) and Ethyl Acetoacetate and Ethyl Pyruvate respectively. The therapeutic significance of each of these compounds (their derivatives) is well established, but no data are available on their combined action in in vivo experimental tumor models.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vivo protective effect of mono- and combined experimental therapy with dietary supplements Oxidal® and Pyrucet® in the Graffi myeloid tumor model in hamsters. For this purpose, the two drugs were administered alone or in combination in two treatment regimens - prophylactic (before) and therapeutic (simultaneously) with the transplantation of Graffi tumor cells. The protective effect was determined by the biometric parameters of tumor growth (transplantability, tumor size, mortality, mean survival time, survival rate) recorded during the experiment. The results showed a favorable effect of both drugs, administered alone or in combination, before and simultaneously with the transplantation of tumor cells on the appearance and development of Graffi tumor in hamsters. About 2-fold lower transplantability, prolongation of the latency period by 7 days, inhibition of tumor growth till 30thday of experiments, reduced mortality and increased individual and overall survival time between 7 to 10 days were observed in the Graffi tumor-bearing hamsters with experimental therapy compared to control-Graffi tumor-bearing hamsters, without therapy. The obtained data revealed that Oxidal® and Pyrucet® could be a promising candidate for the treatment of tumor diseases.
Assessment of the Patterns of Exercise and Diet Intake among the Pregnant and Pre-pregnant Women Reported at Gynae OPD Civil Hospital Khairpur, Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Pathan Nusrat Fozia , Unar Fozia , Noor Bushra , Shaikh Farheen , Ain Qurat ul , Shaikh Rehnaz , Ahmer Arslan
Published: March 2021

Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess the patterns of exercise and diet intake among the pregnant and pre pregnant women visiting the Gynae OPD Civil Hospital Khairpur, Sindh, Pakistan.

Methodology: This is a descriptive cross sectional study conducted at the Gynae OPD Civil Hospital Khairpur, Sindh, Pakistan, from November 2020 to January 2021. A well-structured questionnaire was introduced to collect the study data and consent was taken. Sample size was calculated by Slovin’s Formula which was 400 with 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error. Results were analyzed by using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software version 23. Results: Results reported that, out of 400 women, during pregnancy 304 were not having gestational diabetes, before pregnancy 348 women did not exercise. It was also found that out of 322 having normal range of Body Mass Index (BMI) during pregnancy 36 of participants performed exercise, before pregnancy 40 performed the exercise, during pregnancy 256 did the household work, during pregnancy 42 followed the special diet.

Conclusion: It was concluded that women who visited the OPD do not exercise properly and do not take proper diet before and during pregnancy because of inadequate awareness of role of exercise and diet for pregnancy.
Fusing Stretchable Sensing Technology with Machine Learning for Human–Machine Interfaces
Authors: Wang Ming , Wang Ting , Luo Yifei , He Ke , Pan Liang , Li Zheng , Cui Zequn , Liu Zhihua , Tu Jiaqi , Chen Xiaodong
Published: March 2021

Sensors and algorithms are two fundamental elements to construct intelligent systems. The recent progress in machine learning (ML) has produced great advancements in intelligent systems, owing to the powerful data analysis capability of ML algorithms. However, the performance of most systems is still hindered by sensing techniques that typically rely on rigid and bulky sensor devices, which cannot conform to irregularly curved and dynamic surfaces for high‐quality data acquisition. Skin‐like stretchable sensing technology with unique characteristics, such as high conformability, low modulus, and light weight, has been recently developed to solve this issue. Here, the recent progress in the fusion of emerging stretchable electronics and ML technology, for bioelectrical signal recognition, tactile perception, and multimodal integration is summarized, and the challenges and future developments are further discussed. These efforts aim to accelerate various perception and reasoning tasks for advanced intelligent applications, such as human–machine interfaces, healthcare, and robotics.
Mixed Conduction in an N‐Type Organic Semiconductor in the Absence of Hydrophilic Side‐Chains
Authors: Surgailis Jokubas , Savva Achilleas , Druet Victor , Paulsen Bryan D. , Wu Ruiheng , Hamidi‐Sakr Amer , Ohayon David , Nikiforidis Georgios , Chen Xingxing , McCulloch Iain , Rivnay Jonathan , Inal Sahika
Published: March 2021

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) are the building blocks of biosensors, neuromorphic devices, and complementary circuits. One rule in the materials design for OECTs is the inclusion of a hydrophilic component in the chemical structure to enable ion transport in the film. Here, it is shown that the ladder‐type, side‐chain free polymer poly(benzimidazobenzophenanthroline) (BBL) performs significantly better in OECTs than the donor–acceptor type copolymer bearing hydrophilic ethylene glycol side chains (P‐90). A combination of electrochemical techniques reveals that BBL exhibits a more efficient ion‐to‐electron coupling and higher OECT mobility than P‐90. In situ atomic force microscopy scans evidence that BBL, which swells negligibly in electrolytes, undergoes a drastic and permanent change in morphology upon electrochemical doping. In contrast, P‐90 substantially swells when immersed in electrolytes and shows moderate morphology changes induced by dopant ions. Ex situ grazing incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering suggests that the particular packing of BBL crystallites is minimally affected after doping, in contrast to P‐90. BBL's ability to show exceptional mixed transport is due to the crystallites’ connectivity, which resists water uptake. This side chain‐free route for the design of mixed conductors could bring the n‐type OECT performance closer to the bar set by their p‐type counterparts.
Supplementary Networking of Interpenetrating Polymer System (SNIPSy) Strategy to Develop Strong & High Water Content Ionic Hydrogels for Solid Electrolyte Applications
Authors: Mandal Subhankar , Kumari Srishti , Kumar Milan , Ojha Umaprasana
Published: March 2021

To synthesize hydrogels that possess tensile strength and modulus together in MPas along with extensibility at high equilibrium water content (≥90 wt%) is challenging but important from the application perspective. Especially, such hydrogel compositions are useful for fabricating flexible electronics devices for subsea applications, where underwater risk‐free implementation and optimum device performance at low temperature (≈0 °C) and high hydrostatic pressure (≤20 bar) conditions is desirable. The high water content of hydrogel is necessary to facilitate ion transportation, and mechanical strength is desirable to maintain a stable electrode–electrolyte interface under load. In this study, supplementary networking of an interpenetrating polymer system strategy is utilized to develop ionic hydrogels with tensile strength and Young's modulus values up to 2 and 1.67 MPa, respectively, at high equilibrium water content value up to 96%. Cost‐effective, durable, rechargeable, and flexible batteries are fabricated using the Zn & Li ion soaked hydrogel as solid electrolyte without barrier. These batteries display minimal loss in capacity when immersed in water, deformed, exposed to flame, put under high load, and operated under low‐temperature conditions suggesting the viability for subsea application.
Oxidation‐Responsive, Tunable Growth Factor Delivery from Polyelectrolyte‐Coated Implants
Authors: Martin John R. , Howard MayLin T. , Wang Sheryl , Berger Adam G. , Hammond Paula T.
Published: March 2021

Polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) coatings, constructed on the surfaces of tissue engineering scaffolds using layer‐by‐layer assembly (LbL), promote sustained release of therapeutic molecules and have enabled regeneration of large‐scale, pre‐clinical bone defects. However, these systems primarily rely on non‐specific hydrolysis of PEM components to foster drug release, and their pre‐determined drug delivery schedules potentially limit future translation into innately heterogeneous patient populations. To trigger therapeutic delivery directly in response to local environmental stimuli, an LbL‐compatible polycation solely degraded by cell‐generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) was synthesized. These thioketal‐based polymers were selectively cleaved by physiologic doses of ROS, stably incorporated into PEM films alongside growth factors, and facilitated tunable release of therapeutic bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) upon oxidation. These coatings' sensitivity to oxidation was also dependent on the polyanions used in film construction, providing a simple method for enhancing ROS‐mediated protein delivery in vitro. Correspondingly, when implanted in critically‐sized rat calvarial defects, the most sensitive ROS‐responsive coatings generated a 50% increase in bone regeneration compared with less sensitive formulations and demonstrated a nearly threefold extension in BMP‐2 delivery half‐life over conventional hydrolytically‐sensitive coatings. These combined results highlight the potential of environmentally‐responsive PEM coatings as tunable drug delivery systems for regenerative medicine.
Therapeutic Ultrasound Triggered Silk Fibroin Scaffold Degradation
Authors: DeBari Megan K. , Niu Xiaodan , Scott Jacqueline V. , Griffin Mallory D. , Pereira Sean R. , Cook Keith E. , He Bin , Abbott Rosalyn D.
Published: March 2021

A patient's capacity for tissue regeneration varies based on age, nutritional status, disease state, lifestyle, and gender. Because regeneration cannot be predicted prior to biomaterial implantation, there is a need for responsive biomaterials with adaptive, personalized degradation profiles to improve regenerative outcomes. This study reports a new approach to use therapeutic ultrasound as a means of altering the degradation profile of silk fibroin biomaterials noninvasively postimplantation. By evaluating changes in weight, porosity, surface morphology, compressive modulus, and chemical structure, it is concluded that therapeutic ultrasound can trigger enhanced degradation of silk fibroin scaffolds noninvasively. By removing microbubbles on the scaffold surface, it is found that acoustic cavitation is the mechanism responsible for changing the degradation profile. This method is proved to be safe for human cells with no negative effects on cell viability or metabolism. Sonication through human skin also effectively triggers scaffold degradation, increasing the clinical relevance of these results. These findings suggest that silk is an ultrasound‐responsive biomaterial, where the degradation profile can be adjusted noninvasively to improve regenerative outcomes.
Durable and Fatigue‐Resistant Soft Peripheral Neuroprosthetics for In Vivo Bidirectional Signaling
Authors: Seo Hyunseon , Han Sang Ihn , Song Kang‐Il , Seong Duhwan , Lee Kyungwoo , Kim Sun Hong , Park Taesung , Koo Ja Hoon , Shin Mikyung , Baac Hyoung Won , Park Ok Kyu , Oh Soong Ju , Han Hyung‐Seop , Jeon Hojeong , Kim Yu‐Chan , Kim Dae‐Hyeong , Hyeon Taeghwan , Son Donghee
Published: March 2021

Soft neuroprosthetics that monitor signals from sensory neurons and deliver motor information can potentially replace damaged nerves. However, achieving long‐term stability of devices interfacing peripheral nerves is challenging, since dynamic mechanical deformations in peripheral nerves cause material degradation in devices. Here, a durable and fatigue‐resistant soft neuroprosthetic device is reported for bidirectional signaling on peripheral nerves. The neuroprosthetic device is made of a nanocomposite of gold nanoshell (AuNS)‐coated silver (Ag) flakes dispersed in a tough, stretchable, and self‐healing polymer (SHP). The dynamic self‐healing property of the nanocomposite allows the percolation network of AuNS‐coated flakes to rebuild after degradation. Therefore, its degraded electrical and mechanical performance by repetitive, irregular, and intense deformations at the device–nerve interface can be spontaneously self‐recovered. When the device is implanted on a rat sciatic nerve, stable bidirectional signaling is obtained for over 5 weeks. Neural signals collected from a live walking rat using these neuroprosthetics are analyzed by a deep neural network to predict the joint position precisely. This result demonstrates that durable soft neuroprosthetics can facilitate collection and analysis of large‐sized in vivo data for solving challenges in neurological disorders.
A multi‐country study on consumers' valuation for child‐labor‐free chocolate: Implications for child labor in cocoa production
Authors: Luckstead Jeff , Snell Heather A. , Nalley Lawton Lanier , Nayga Rodolfo M. , Sarpaning Joshua
Published: March 2021

Child labor is a preeminent issue of our time. Using a discrete choice experiment, we surveyed consumers in Belgium, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States to assess their willingness to pay (WTP) for chocolate labeled as “child‐labor‐free” based on two levels of child labor and two information sets (short and long). Our results indicate that when respondents are shown a definition clarifying the meaning of the child‐labor‐free logo, their WTP in all countries exceeds the 2.81% price premium farmers need to eliminate hazardous forms of child labor. Important implications for child labor in cocoa production are discussed.

JEL CLASSIFICATION

C25, J28, J43, J80, Q18
Tailored Hierarchical Porous Carbon through Template Modification for Antifreezing Quasi‐Solid‐State Zinc Ion Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Chen Chaojie , Li Zhiwei , Xu Yinghong , Li Shaopeng , Wu Langyuan , Xiao Dewei , Dou Hui , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: March 2021

Aqueous zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZHSCs) have emerged and are regarded as promising candidates for energy storage due to their environmental friendlessness and cost‐effectiveness. However, the development of a satisfying positive electrode with high performance still poses challenges. Herein, a hierarchical porous carbon with a fast‐ion‐transport feature is rationally reported via a facile template modification strategy. By adjusting the content of the template, the physiochemical characteristics and microstructures of carbon can be reasonably optimized. As proof of concept, the produced carbon electrode can deliver a high specific capacitance of 294.8 F g−1 at a current density of 0.2 A g−1, long cycling stability with ≈100% capacitance retention over 20 000 cycles, and a maximum power density of 13.2 kW kg−1 at 30.8 W h kg−1. Significantly, a superior areal capacitance of 3390 mF cm−2 is offered with a mass loading of 21 mg cm−2. When coupled with a unique antifreezing hydrogel electrolyte, the constructed quasi‐solid‐state ZHSC can not only endure −15 °C, but also exhibits outstanding durability and an ultralow self‐discharging rate, demonstrating its potential prospect for extreme conditions. This work may bring light on the preparation of carbon materials and the fabrication of multifunctional devices.
Amorphous Metal Oxide Bilayers to Avoid Sneak‐Path Currents for High‐Density Resistive Memory Arrays
Authors: Nirantar Shruti , Rahman Md Ataur , Mayes Edwin , Bhaskaran Madhu , Walia Sumeet , Sriram Sharath
Published: March 2021

Resistance switching devices are potential candidates for future memory applications. However, sneak‐path current issues in crossbar array cause energy and heat dissipation, and it requires additional circuitry for mitigation. To address this, we introduce a hybrid device with functional oxide as bilayer of amorphous strontium titanium oxide (a‐STO) and vanadium oxide (a‐VOx). High‐performance resistive switching material a‐STO is coupled with a‐VOx having fast apolar threshold switching. The hybrid device gives performance equivalent to conventional one resistance switch and one selector architecture with stability of 6000 endurance cycles. Non‐linearity factor of the hybrid device is 4.8, which is slightly higher than only a‐STO device of 4.7. Using I–V measurements, readout margin is calculated, which suggests integration into 104 × 104 array when 10% readout margin is considered at switching ratio of 8. Further, the selector effect using non‐zero‐crossing property of memristors, which reveals six times reduction in OFF current in the hybrid device, is quantified. Compositional analysis along the device cross‐section to understand elemental distribution and interface effects of two unique, multifaceted oxides is presented. As such, in the hybrid structure non‐linearity factor remains nearly constant, while the absolute value of non‐zero‐crossing current is reduced six times, which can reduce the overall sneak current in crossbars.
Liquid Metal‐Enabled Soft Logic Devices
Authors: Li Dong-Dong , Liu Tian-Ying , Ye Jiao , Sheng Lei , Liu Jing
Published: March 2021

The controllable manipulation of gallium‐based liquid metal (LM) droplet presents a promising option toward the goal of making fully soft machines, which features an autonomy via external administration apparatus. While most current endeavors mainly concentrate on LM‐assisted actuations for soft robots, it is noteworthy that the peculiar behavior and LM droplet circuits thus enabled can be adopted as intelligent elements. Such characteristics will pave a way to innovate conventional logic devices and emancipate soft robots from the existing rigid machinery. Herein, LM‐based soft logic systems are described which are capable of regulating soft machines on macroscale. The core element is a LM‐based switch (LMS) with two specific types, both utilizing the LM droplet as a conducting medium. Soft logic gates of AND, OR, NOT, NAND, and NOR thus fabricated are demonstrated to generate electrical outputs as an integration of random inputs, and these signals can be adapted for electronic devices. For practical illustration, a logic accumulator is further constructed which can effectively regulate a pneumatic soft gripper within four states of inflation. The present LM‐enabled logic devices are expected to offer a feasible strategy to manipulate future soft machines without the participation of traditional rigid controlling elements.
Delivery of Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) Agonist Using Polypeptide‐Modified Dendrimer Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Melanoma
Authors: Dosta Pere , Cryer Alexander M. , Prado Michaela , Dion Michelle Z. , Ferber Shiran , Kalash Santhosh , Artzi Natalie
Published: March 2021

The activation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in the cytosol by cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) enhances antitumor immunity through the induction of proinflammatory cytokines, such as type‐I interferons (IFN‐I). However, the high hydrophilicity and negative charge of CDNs hinders their delivery into cells. Here, by developing a library of cationic polypeptide‐modified dendrimers, it is shown that CDNs can be efficiently delivered intracellularly in vitro and in vivo. With respect to naked dendrimers, generation‐5 polyamidoamine (G5‐PAMAM) dendrimers modified with arginine or with a mixture of arginine/lysine polypeptides affords higher CDN‐packaging capacity and leads to higher activation of IFN‐I and the nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain‐enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐κB) proinflammatory signaling pathway. In the B16‐F10 murine model of melanoma, the intratumoral administration of a synthetic CDN via arginine‐modified G5‐PAMAM dendrimers at a low dose induces strong antitumor responses and inhibits tumor growth. It is also shown that the combination of this therapy with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) further improves the therapeutic outcomes. Cationic polypeptide dendrimers may be advantageous in the delivery of gene‐based immunomodulators for the treatment of solid tumors.
Eine Hommage an Siegfried Hünig und seine Forschung
Authors: Reißig Hans‐Ulrich
Published: March 2021

Beispiele aus den verschiedenen Forschungsgebieten von Siegfried Hünig sollen daran erinnern, dass die organische Chemie diesem ungewöhnlich vielseitigen und kreativen Chemiker viel mehr als die wohlbekannte Hünig‐Base verdankt. Die Hauptforschungslinien mit Synthesen und physikalischer Charakterisierung von neuen Farbstoffen, mehrstufigen Redoxsystemen und organischen Metallen werden ebenso vorgestellt wie die heute weniger bekannten Beiträge zur Enamin‐Chemie, zur Entdeckung von Diimin als hydrierendes Agens und zur nucleophilen Acylierung mit Trimethylsilylcyanid. Auch exotische Verbindungen mit parallelen C=C‐ und N=N‐Doppelbindungen wurden in der Gruppe von Hünig umfassend bearbeitet. Der Blick auf die Entwicklung seiner Forschung lehrt, wie fruchtbar systematisches Vorgehen ist, aber auch wie wichtig vollkommen unerwartete Resultate sind, wenn sie auf den “vorbereiteten Geist” treffen. Die große Bedeutung der Lehre im akademischen Wirken Hünigs und seine Rolle bei der Modernisierung des Würzburger Chemieinstitutes und der Förderung des akademischen Nachwuchses in Deutschland werden ebenfalls kurz beleuchtet.
Chemische Evolution antiviraler Wirkstoffe gegen Enterovirus D68 durch Proteintemplat‐gesteuerte Knoevenagelreaktionen
Authors: Tauber Carolin , Wamser Rebekka , Arkona Christoph , Tügend Marisa , Abdul Aziz Umer Bin , Pach Szymon , Schulz Robert , Jochmans Dirk , Wolber Gerhard , Neyts Johan , Rademann Jörg
Published: March 2021

Die Bildung bioaktiver Moleküle aus inaktiven Vorstufen ist ein wesentlicher Schritt in der chemischen Evolution des Lebens, trotzdem gibt es nur wenige mechanistischen Einblicke in diesen Aspekt der Abiogenese. Hier untersuchen wir die proteinkatalysierte Bildung antiviraler Wirkstoffe durch die 3C‐Protease von Enterovirus D68. Das Enzym induziert Aldolkondensationen und liefert Inhibitoren mit antiviraler Aktivität in Zellen. Kinetische und thermodynamische Analysen zeigen, dass die Bioaktivität in einem dynamischen Reaktionssystem entsteht, welches die Bildung des Inhibitors, Proteinalkylierung durch den Inhibitor und kompetitive Addition von nicht‐Protein‐Nukleophilen an den Inhibitor umfasst. Die aktivsten antiviralen Wirkstoffe sind langsam reversible Inhibitoren mit verlängerter Verweilzeit am Target. Die Studie zeigt erste Beispiele für die chemische Evolution von bioaktiven Substanzen durch proteinkatalysierte, nicht‐enzymatische C‐C‐Kupplungen. Der entdeckte Mechanismus funktioniert unter physiologischen Bedingungen und könnte ein natürliches Verfahren der Wirkstoffentwicklung darstellen.
Multicolor Two‐Photon Nanosystem for Multiplexed Intracellular Imaging and Targeted Cancer Therapy
Authors: Wu Yong‐Xiang , Zhang Dailiang , Hu Xiaoxiao , Peng Ruizi , Li Junbin , Zhang Xiaobing , Tan Weihong
Published: March 2021

The novel theranostic nanosystems based on two‐photon fluorescence can achieve higher spatial resolution of deep tissue imaging for simultaneous diagnosis and therapy of a variety of cancers. Herein, we have designed and prepared FRET‐based two‐photon mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MTP–MSNs) for single‐excitation multiplexed intracellular imaging and targeted cancer therapy for the first time. This nanosystem includes two constituents, containing (1) multicolor two‐photon mesoporous silica nanoparticles and (2) cancer cell‐targeting aptamers that act as gatekeepers for MTP–MSNs. After incubation with cancer cells, the Dox‐loaded and aptamer‐capped MTP–MSNs could be internalized into the cells, opening the pores and releasing the drug. Furthermore, using two‐photon multicolor fluorescence, MTP–MSNs could serve as good contrast agents for multicolor two‐photon intracellular imaging with increased imaging depth and improved spatial localization of tissue. In sum, these multicolor MTP–MSNs provide a promising system for traceable targeted cancer therapy with further applications in multiplex intracellular imaging and the screening of drug.
In‐situ Nano‐Crystallization and Solvation Modulation to Promote Highly Stable Anode Involving Alloy/De‐alloy for Potassium Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Bo , Wang Bin , Zeng Suyuan , Zhao Mingwen , Sun Xiuping , Zhai Yanjun , Xu Liqiang
Published: March 2021

For advanced anode materials involving alloy/de‐alloy chemistry for potassium ion batteries (PIBs), two‐dimensional (2D) bismuth subcarbonate (BCO) nanosheets that possess high theoretical capacity of 631 mAh g−1 are proposed. The large lattice spacing of 0.683 nm along b axis facilitate insertion of K+ ion to boost high‐capacity delivery of ca. 610 mAh g−1, and the in situ nano‐crystallization well ease volume changes of the integrated particle and shorten ion diffusion path during potassiation/depotassiation. After coupling with a concentrated KFSI‐G2 electrolyte, the robust and efficient SEI built from enhanced participation of FSI− synergistically endow structural stability of the flower‐like BCO, and enable a prolonged cycling performance with capacity of ca. 300 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 for 1500 cycles, achieving an ultralow decay rate of 0.007 %. Mechanistic investigations probe the electrochemistry involving alloy/de‐alloy and phase transition of the electrode.
Positively charged nanomicelles in water of amphiphilic copolymer chitosan‐g‐polylactide as drug carrier of photoporphyrin IX for photodynamic therapy
Authors: Sibarani James , Sirait Simon Hamonangan , Widihati Ida Ayu Gede , Manurung Manuntun
Published: March 2021

Preparation of amphiphilic graft copolymers of chitosan‐g‐methacrylate‐terminated poly(lactic acid) (CS‐g‐MPLAn) with various chain length of lactic acid monomers in the copolymers (n = 20, 40, and 70) has been successfully carried out by “grafting on” free radical polymerization. Beside to offer a tunable and easy preparation of chitosan (CS)‐based amphiphilic copolymers, the specific purpose is to study the effects of poly(lactic acid) chain length on the micelle properties of the copolymers in water. First, oligomer CS was synthesized by partial oxidation. Second, the methacrylate‐terminated poly(lactic acid) with different chain length were synthesized by ring opening polymerization of lactide monomer using 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate and Sn(Oct)2 as initiator and catalyst, respectively. Finally, the grafting process was carried out by free radical copolymerization using cerium(IV) sulfate as initiator at 70°C for 24 h. The CS‐g‐MPLAn amphiphilic copolymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared and proton nuclear magnetic resonance. The hydrophobic drug nanomicelles in water with a narrow‐size distribution, positively charged and high stability have been confirmed. The micelle size is significantly bigger on longer chain of poly(lactic acid); however, the stability, loading capacity, and encapsulation efficiency are independent on the chain length. The high‐loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency for hydrophobic drug protoporphyrin IX as the model are ensuring the hydrophobic drugs efficacy in photodynamic therapy applications.
Positive Promoting Effects of Smilax China Flower Absolute on the Wound Healing/Skin Barrier Repair‐Related Responses of HaCaT Human Skin Keratinocytes
Authors: Li Yali , Won Kyung Jong , Kim Do Yoon , Kim Ha Bin , Kang Hye Min , Lee Su Yeon , Lee Hwan Myung
Published: March 2021

Smilax china (SC) has pharmacological effects including anti‐inflammatory activity, but its effects on skin wound healing and skin barrier function have not been investigated. Here, we investigated the effects of absolute extracted from SC flowers (SCF) on skin wound healing‐linked responses and functional skin barrier proteins using human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). SCF absolute contained 20 components and was non‐toxic to HaCaT cells. The absolute increased the proliferation, migration, and sprout outgrowth of HaCaT cells, and enhanced the activations of serine/threonine‐specific protein kinase and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase1/2. In addition, it increased the syntheses of type I and IV collagens and the expressions of skin barrier proteins (filaggrin and loricrin). These results indicate SCF absolute may has positive effects on skin wound healing by accelerating keratinocyte migration and proliferation activities and collagen synthesis, and on skin barrier function by upregulating barrier proteins in keratinocytes. We suggest SCF absolute to be considered as a potential means of promoting skin wound and barrier repair.