bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Art and Race in the Time of Covid-19
Authors: Metrick-Chen Lenore ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2021

Trump and his administration brought with them an inflammatory rhetoric that reduced complex issues into the simplified polarity of "us" and "them." With this as the dominant paradigm, racism was encouraged and spread like a virus throughout the nation, appearing in heightened jingoism against other nations, anger towards fellow citizens and violence towards neighbors. When the pandemic Covid-19 spread throughout the nation and the world, it became politicized, used by Trump as a novel corona vehicle help inflame intolerance. He repeatedly associated China and Chinese people with the virus to forward his political agenda regarding US trade with China and he used the resulting demonization of China as a foil for his complicity with Russian crimes. In response to increased and well-publicized acts of violence against Black Americans, systemic racism against Black people is finally being noticed. However, anti-Asian violence has largely been disregarded. This paper discusses both the increased violence against Asian Americans and the lack of attention to it. Dividing the paper into three sections, I correlate an artwork to the main issue in each section: the state-of-affairs provide a context in which to understand the artworks. Reciprocally, because artworks evoke an embodied understanding, involving our senses as well cognition, artworks change our relationship with issues from topical to personal. The artworks recontextualize what we thought we already knew and present possibilities for constructing the world differently.
The Balkans Geo-psychoanalysis
Authors: Bjelić Dušan ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: April 2021

In the 1990s, Julija Kristeva and Slavoj Žižek developed a unique discourse within psychoanalysis - the psychoanalysis of the Balkans. Their cultural and political analysis represented the Balkans as a pathological region of nations suffering from the syndrome of an “archaic mother.” They propose in their different ways that the subject (nation) must radically separate from oedipal attachment to the attachment to nationalism as unemancipated Oedipus and subordinate to the authority of the symbolic father, that is, to the West. At the heart of such an approach is a conservative policy of labeling the Balkans as primitive behind Kristeva and Žižek loom self-orientalization and geopolitical de-identification with the Balkans as a precondition for their cosmopolitan and universalist identity.
Bio-inspired back support system for backpacks
Authors: Angeleska Elena , Sidorenko Sofija
Published: April 2021

In this paper a solution-driven bionic approach applied in a process of product redesign with intention to improve its ergonomic properties is presented. The main goal was to reformulate and use the properties of a unique natural phenomenon in a specific design field. The skeletal structure of the seahorse, its load-bearing capacity with retained flexibility, was an inspiration to explore products where these properties could be applied for improving the functionality. The research process resulted with detecting a problem caused by poor product design - spine deformities of students caused by non-ergonomic school backpacks. This ignited the idea to use the analyzed biological properties for designing school backpacks with improved ergonomics. The final result was the design of school backpacks with an integrated mechanical system based on the biological skeletal structure of the seahorse which would help to achieve maximum comfort and support the healthy posture of students.
Impact of weft yarn type and fabric weft density on burning behavior, tearing strength and air permeability for different types of antibacterial drapery fabrics
Authors: Kenan Çeven , Karakan Günaydin , Çeven Nejla
Published: April 2021

Drapery fabrics are textile products utilized for home and decorative textiles. Recently there have been new functional requirements for the drapery fabrics such as flame retardancy, antimicrobial efficiency, UV protection, etc. This study has been conducted to investigate the effect of weft yarn type and weft density on drapery fabrics' burning behaviour, tearing strength and air permeability properties. "A special inherently flame-retardant yarn" was used as the warp and weft yarns of the woven drapery fabrics while "a special inherently and antibacterial yarn" was also used as the weft yarn in some of the sample groups. Two main fabric groups each consisting of 12 woven drapery samples with different weft yarns and weft densities were separately evaluated among themselves by using SPSS Statistical software package and bar graphs. Burning behaviours of the samples in terms of damage length and damage width with the ignition source were satisfying both for the drapery samples with the special inherently flame-retardant weft yarn as well as those with the special inherently flame retardant and antibacterial yarn weft yarns. In other words, usage of inherently flame retardant and antibacterial yarn as the weft yarns did not contribute negatively on the flame retardancy of drapery fabrics. The results of two-way ANOVA test indicated that weft yarn type was a significant factor for tearing strength in warp and weft wise while weft density and the interaction of weft yarn type and weft density factors were non-significant factors on tear strength values in warp and weft wises at significance level of 0.05. Additionally, correlation analyses revealed that weft yarn tenacity values were highly correlated with the drapery fabrics' weft tearing strength values. Moreover, weft yarn type, weft density and their interaction were influential factors on air permeability of the drapery fabrics at significance level of 0.05.
Establishing A Basis For Decision Support Modelling Of Future Zero Emissions Sea Based Tourism Mobility In The Geiranger Fjord Area
Authors: Johansen Boerge Heggen
Published: April 2021

Destinations for cruise tourism have to manage both opportunities and challenges of hosting cruise ships. Governing bodies in Norway are proposing new environmental regulations to abate environmental impacts, but some stakeholders worry that stringent regulations will cause less value generation for local business. The purpose of this paper is to establish a basis for decision support modelling on future zero emission sea-based tourism mobility for the Geiranger fjord area. The tourism mobility system is mapped through a systems engineering lens. The analysis systematizes the tourism mobility system, prior studies on air pollution and emissions, existing- and upcoming regulations. The study concludes by proposing an objectives hierarchy and measure of effectiveness for use in future works.
Movimientos de dispersión en los primates: variabilidad en sus patrones y sus causas
Authors: Polo Rodrigo Pablo
Published: April 2021

Los movimientos de dispersión en los animales representan decisiones críticas para los individuos ya que afectan a su supervivencia y éxito reproductivo, además de ser un componente importante para la dinámica poblacional. En este artículo se describe la variabilidad en los patrones de dispersión en los primates y las causas, tanto últimas como proximales, a las que responde.
El perfil del maltractador masclista. Què ens diu la seua biologia?
Authors: Romero Martínez Ángel , Lila Marisol , Moya Albiol Luis
Published: April 2021

La consideració dels marcadors psicobiològics de predisposició a la violència dels homes que maltracten les dones obre una porta a la prevenció i la intervenció en el camp de la violència contra les dones. Actualment no disposem de fàrmacs efectius per al tractament de la violència contra les dones, però el desenvolupament de programes d’intervenció psicoterapèutica i de rehabilitació neuropsicològica marca una via d’esperança.
El impacto social de la movilidad humana. Una visión no dicotómica del cambio cultural e individual
Authors: Villarroya Edelia
Published: April 2021

Este artículo pretende reflexionar sobre el balance de costes/beneficios en las sociedades, tanto emisoras de población como receptoras, y en las personas que las componen. Se trabaja en todo momento desde la doble perspectiva grupal/individual. Se describe el proceso dinámico de cambio y el impacto del cambio cultural e individual producido por la aculturación. Todo esto salpicado por algunas reflexiones desde una sociedad nómada como la nuestra.
Robots socials. Un punt de trobada entre ciència i ficció
Authors: Torras Carme
Published: April 2021

Els robots industrials i els androides de la ciència-ficció, tan diferents fins ara, comencen a confluir gràcies al ràpid desenvolupament de la robòtica social. Atesa la creixent necessitat de mà d’obra en el sector assistencial i de serveis, s’estan dissenyant robots que puguin interaccionar amb les persones, ja sigui atenent a discapacitats i gent gran, fent de recepcionistes o dependents en centres comercials, i àdhuc actuant de mestres de reforç o mainaderes. En aquest context, proliferen les iniciatives per facilitar la inspiració mútua entre tecnociència i humanitats. Qüestions ètiques com la influència de les mainaderes robòtiques sobre el psiquisme infantil, abans tractades en obres literàries, són ara debatudes en fòrums científics.
Justícia distributiva i evolució. Cap a una ciència de la igualtat
Authors: Casal Paula
Published: April 2021

Aquest article ofereix als estudiosos de la justícia distributiva raons per a interessar-se per la ciència evolutiva que pot ajudar a entendre, per exemple, els factors genètics i de subsistència que influeixen en les nostres opinions sobre el que és una distribució justa, el possible origen del nostre sentit de la propietat, per què la llibertat és important per a determinades criatures i per què tenim sentiments fraternals i igualitaris però societats desiguals.
Consensus and contrarianism on climate change: How the USA case informs dynamics elsewhere
Authors: Boykoff Maxwell
Published: April 2021

Against a contrasting backdrop of consensus on key issues on climate science, a heterogeneous group dubbed climate «skeptics», «contrarians», «deniers» have significantly shaped contemporary discussions of climate science, politics and policy in the public sphere. This essay focuses on the USA context, and explores some of the intertwined social, political and economic factors, as well as cultural and psychological characteristics that have together influenced public attitudes, intentions, beliefs, perspective and behaviors in regards to climate change science and governance over time. This article makes the case that the USA example can inform developments elsewhere; as such it is important to consider these contextual elements to more capably appraise «contrarian», «skeptic», «denier» reverberations through the current public discussions on climate change.
Detection-confirmation-standardization-quantification: a novel method for the quantitative analysis of active components in traditional Chinese medicines
Authors: Song Xiaohong , Zhao Anyi , Liu Yan , Cheng Jintang , Chen Sha , Liu An
Published: April 2021

Background

Quantitative analysis of the active ingredients of Traditional Chinese Medicine is a research tendency. The objective of this study was to build a novel method, namely, Detection-confirmation-standardization-quantification (DCSQ), for the quantitative analysis of active components in traditional Chinese medicines, without individual reference standard.

Methods

Danshen (the dried root of Radix Salvia miltiorrhiza) was used as the matrix. The “extraction” function in high-performance liquid chromatography-mass (HPLC-MS) instrument was used to find the peaks corresponding to cryptotanshinone, tanshinone I, and tanshinone IIA in the total ion current (TIC) chromatogram of Danshen. The multicomponent reference standard (MCRS) containing the three tanshinones mainly was prepared by preparative HPLC. The contents of them in the resulting MCRS were determined by NMR; moreover, the constituents of the MCRS were confirmed. The MCRS containing known content of the three tanshinones was used as the reference standard for the quantitative analysis of cryptotanshinone, tanshinone I and tanshinone IIA in Danshen Samples by analytical HPLC.

Results

The optimized HPLC conditions for the quantitative analysis of the active components in Danshen were established, and the assignments of the extracted peaks were confirmed by analyzing the characteristic fragments in their MS/MS product ion spectra and UV spectra. Then, the MCRS containing the three tanshinones were successfully prepared. The results of determination about the contents by NMR showed linearity fitted with high likelihood and calibration curves possessed high linearity. The results of determination on Danshen Samples obtained through DCSQ exhibited minimal deviations, in contrast to those obtained through individual reference standards.

Conclusion

The establishing DCSQ is independent and convenient for the quantitative analysis of the active components in TCMs by MCRS, without individual reference standard. This method is a great advance in quantitative analysis for complex composition, especially TCMs.
Development and Validation of Ultra Visible Spectrophotometric Method for the Estimation of Thymoquinone
Authors: Trivedi Sagar , Belgamwar Veena , Wadher Kamlesh
Published: April 2021

Aim: The work mainly focuses on developing a robust UV-Visible spectroscopic method for qualitative and quantitative analysis of thymoquinone and this will open to many possibilities in exploiting the wonders of this bioactive molecule.

Study Design:  UV-vis Spectrophotometric method development for thymoquinone.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmaceutics, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University Campus, Nagpur, India.

Methodology: To find out λmax and validate the developed method using Double beam UV – visible spectrophotometer module (JASCO V-630).

Results: The thymoquinone was found to be soluble in methanol. The absorption maximum (λmax) was found to be 252 nm. The good linearity was found to be within concentration range of 2-10 μg/ml with correlation coefficient (r2) >0.99 and regression equation of the curve was found to be y = 0.0173x − 0.0394 at 252 nm. The precision (intra-day and inter-day) data represents good reproducibility with % RSD lower than 2.0% which assured that method is précised. Mean recovery value at different concentrations was found to be higher than 90%, indicates accuracy of the method. LOD and LOQ for thymoquinone were reported and were found to be 0.016 μg/ml and 0.0531μg/ ml 252 nm.

Conclusion: The developed method was found to be simple, specific, economic, reliable, accurate, precise, and reproducible used as a quality control tool for analysis of pure thymoquinone and thymoquinone in formulations.
Assessment of Anti-lipidaemic Effects of Aqueous and Ethanolic Seed Extracts of Datura stramonium on Male Albino Rats
Authors: Yahaya Junaidu , Sunday Gideon Obaje , Muhammed Muazu , Alfa Abdullahi Attah , Tijani Kokori Bajeh
Published: April 2021

Aim: This study was carried out to investigate anti-lipidaemic effects of aqueous and ethanolic seed extracts of Datura stramonium.

Methods: A total of twenty five albino rats weighing between 150 – 180 g were used. They were divided into five groups each contained five rats. Group 1, was the normal control and thus received normal saline. Groups 2 and 3 were treated respectively with aqueous extract at doses of 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg while groups 4 and 5 respectively received 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg ethanolic extract. The extracts were administered orally and the animals were sacrificed on the day 8 and the blood samples collected via retro-orbital plexus. The blood was then centrifuged after fifteen minutes and serum obtained for lipid profile analysis. 

Results: The total cholesterol level generally decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in test groups, except in group 2 (0.502 ±.008 mg/dl) which received lower aqueous extract dose of 300 mg/kg. There was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in triacylglycerol (TG) levels in groups of 2 and 3 (groups treated with aqueous extract) but indicated a significant (p < 0.05) increase in group 4 (0.15 ± .003 mg/dl) which received high ethanolic extract dose. The high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels increased significantly (p < 0.05) in groups 4 and 5 with the mean values of 0.164 ± .002 mg/dl and 0.147 ± .004 mg/dl respectively. The mean values of the low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level generally indicated a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in all test groups, the decrease was more significant in groups 4 and 5 with mean values of 0.065 ± .00 mg/dl and 0.069 ± .00 mg/dl, when compared with groups 2 and 3.

Conclusions: This study proves that both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Datura stramonium possess anti-lipidaemic property. The ethanolic extract had higher anti-lipidaemic property than the aqueous extract. Both extracts might be useful in the treatement of some cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
Evaluation of Antidiabetic Activity of a Novel Polyherbal Preparationagainst Streptozotocin Induced Diabetes Rat Model
Authors: Jayaraju K. Jyothsna , Ishaq B. Mohammed
Published: April 2021

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic disorder characterised by abnormally elevated glucose levels in the blood. Diabetes is caused by one of two mechanisms: insufficient insulin synthesis (which is produced by the pancreas and reduces blood glucose) or insufficient response of cells to insulin action. The current aim of this research project was to formulate and evaluate the Polyherbal preparation (PHP) of the plants constituted with Cinnamonum zeylanicium (CJ) bark, Eugenia jambolana (EJ) seeds, Vinca rosea (VR) whole plant, Gymnema sylvestre (GS) leaves and determination of the anti-diabetic potential of the formulation in the animal model induced by Streptozotocin.

Methods: Plant components in the current study used were Cinnamonum zeylanicium (CJ) bark, Eugenia jambolana (EJ) seeds, Vinca rosea (VR) whole plant, Gymnema sylvestre (GS) leaves were collected.Using a hydroalcoholic solvent, physico-chemical parameters and active chemical constituents were evaluated. The active components present in the extracts were identified by Preliminary phytochemical screening. The PHP acute toxicity analysis was conducted in compliance with OECD Guideline 423, with 200 mg/kg and 4000 mg/kg administered orally to rats over 28 days.

Results: Diabetes was induced by STZ and treated with PHF did not show any alterations in behavior and no mortality was observed up to the 2000 mg/kg dose level during the interventional period. By oral administration of PHP with a dosage of 200 and 400 mg/kg, OGTT resulted in a steady decrease in blood glucose levels of 68.74±4.63 mg/dl and 63.83±1.74 mg/dl at 180min after the trial which proves that PHP possess anti-diabetic activity. By mixing each extract in varying proportions, PHP was developed and evaluated. PHP (200 and 400mg/kg) antidiabetic activity wasdetermined for streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes in rats and glibenclamide (5.0mg/kg body weight) was used as a standard drug.The investigational drug was administered for 28 days and the blood glucose level effect of the PHP was analysed on the 28th day after the intervention time.

Conclusion: The experimental study showed that a persistent and substantial decrease in the average blood glucose level of diabetic rats was observed with repeated administration of PHP and glibenclamide for 28 days. PHP demonstrated substantial antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic activity similar to the standard drug. The formulation will emerge as a possible mixture that may challenge the synthetic drug.
Automatic Fire Extinguishing Agent Using Microcapsule for Early Fires
Authors: Lee Youngsam , Baek Sooho
Published: April 2021

According to fire statistics analysis of the nation's fire department between 2015–2019, the most common cause of fire was electrical fire. As reported, 47,135 fires were caused by electricity, 22,852 were caused by mechanical causes, and 871 were caused by gas leakages. In this study, the fire adaptability of microcapsulated fire extinguishing agents was tested against small space electrical fires, such as electrical distribution boards. The tests showed that the fire extinguishing agent inside the capsule was released after initial fire contact and the fire of n-heptane was extinguished within 4.48 seconds (on average). Therefore, the KFI small space B-level fire extinguishing test by the Korea Institute of Fire and Industry met the criteria that the fire was extinguished and did not reoccur within 90 s after the end of the preliminary combustion. In addition, this fire extinguisher (agent) dramatically improved the volume of existing cylinder-type fire extinguishers for small spaces. However, there are no national fire safety codes (NFSCs) for this agent. Therefore, it is necessary to enact fire safety standards for this agent for smooth-field applications.
Like father, like son: Stereotypical Black facial features in children causing trouble
Authors: Bond Alesha D. , Washburn David A. , Kleider‐Offutt Heather M.
Published: April 2021

This present study was designed to investigate whether face‐type (stereotypical or nonstereotypical) facilitates stereotype‐consistent categorization and decision‐making. Previous literature suggests an associative link between adults' stereotypically Black facial features and assumed criminality. The question addressed here is whether the cognitive processes that underpin biased decisions for an adult's racially stereotypical facial features (e.g., broad nose, full lips) apply to children's faces. In two studies, testing face‐type categorization and disciplinary judgments, people were more likely to miscategorize children with stereotypical faces into negative roles more than positive roles. People were also more likely to increase their disciplinary judgments from one infraction to another for children with stereotypical faces compared to nonstereotypical faces. These results suggest that face‐type cues do extend to children and also engender negative associations.
Magnetic Living Hydrogels for Intestinal Localization, Retention, and Diagnosis
Authors: Liu Xinyue , Yang Yueying , Inda Maria Eugenia , Lin Shaoting , Wu Jingjing , Kim Yoonho , Chen Xiaoyu , Ma Dacheng , Lu Timothy K. , Zhao Xuanhe
Published: April 2021

Natural microbial sensing circuits can be rewired into new gene networks to build living sensors that detect and respond to disease‐associated biomolecules. However, synthetic living sensors, once ingested, are cleared from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract within 48 h; retaining devices in the intestinal lumen is prone to intestinal blockage or device migration. To localize synthetic microbes and safely extend their residence in the GI tract for health monitoring and sustained drug release, an ingestible magnetic hydrogel carrier is developed to transport diagnostic microbes to specific intestinal sites. The magnetic living hydrogel is localized and retained by attaching a magnet to the abdominal skin, resisting the peristaltic waves in the intestine. The device retention is validated in a human intestinal phantom and an in vivo rodent model, showing that the ingestible hydrogel maintains the integrated living bacteria for up to seven days, which allows the detection of heme for GI bleeding in the harsh environment of the gut. The retention of microelectronics is also demonstrated by incorporating a temperature sensor into the magnetic hydrogel carrier.
An Easy‐to‐Fabricate 2.5D Evaporator for Efficient Solar Desalination
Authors: Liu Xiaojie , Tian Yanpei , Chen Fangqi , Caratenuto Andrew , DeGiorgis Joseph A , ELSonbaty Mohamed , Wan Yinsheng , Ahlgren Ralph , Zheng Yi
Published: April 2021

Solar‐driven steam generation, whereby solar energy is harvested to purify water directly, is emerging as a promising approach to mitigate the worldwide water crisis. The scalable application of conventional 3D evaporators is hindered by their complex spatial geometries. A 2.5D structure is a spatial extension of a 2D structure with an addition of a third vertical dimension, achieving both the feasibility of 2D structure and the performance of 3D structure simultaneously. Here, an interconnected open‐pore 2.5D Cu/CuO foam‐based photothermal evaporator capable of achieving a high evaporation rate of 4.1 kg m−2 h−1 under one sun illumination by exposing one end of the planar structure to air is demonstrated. The micro‐sized open‐pore structure of Cu/CuO foam allows it to trap incident sunlight, and the densely distributed blade‐like CuO nanostructures effectively scatter sunlight inside pores simultaneously. The inherent hydrophilicity of CuO and capillarity forces from the porous structure of Cu foam continuously supply sufficient water. Moreover, the doubled working sides of Cu/CuO foam enlarge the exposure area enabling efficient vapor diffusion. The feasible fabrication process and the combined structural features of Cu/CuO foam offer new insight into the future development of solar‐driven evaporators in large‐scale applications with practical durability.
In Situ Supramolecular Self‐Assembly of Pt(IV) Prodrug to Conquer Cisplatin Resistance
Authors: Wang Qian , Xiao Meng , Wang Dianyu , Hou Xiaoxue , Gao Jie , Liu Jinjian , Liu Jianfeng
Published: April 2021

Drug resistance has always been a huge challenge that should be urgently conquered to improve the efficacy of anticancer drugs. Herein, a synergistic Pt(IV) prodrug, Npx‐pp‐Pt(IV), is proposed, combining dual responsive behavior with dual drug resistance‐related pathways deactivation. First, Npx‐pp‐Pt(IV) can in situ form a supramolecular self‐assembly with a nanofiber structure on the cancer cell surface triggered by phosphatase, which confines the drug in the tumor and effectively enhances the cellular uptake of cisplatin, resulting in a high cancer cell selectivity and an extremely low non‐targeted cytotoxicity. After being endocytosed, the self‐assembly shows glutathione‐responsive cisplatin release and reverses the IC50 of cisplatin‐resistant cancer cells to that of sensitive ones. Second, the obtained Pt(IV) prodrug can significantly damage cisplatin‐resistance cancer cells through cyclooxygenase‐2 and nuclear factor‐kappa B‐mediated apoptosis pathways, which benefit from the integration of naproxen into the prodrug. The in vivo experiment demonstrates a tumor inhibition rate of 80%. Therefore, Npx‐pp‐Pt(IV) is a multispecific cisplatin derivative, and in situ self‐assembly is believed to be a new strategy to conquer drug resistance for clinical care.
Plasma‐Functionalized Isotactic Polypropylene Assembled with Conducting Polymers for Bacterial Quantification by NADH Sensing
Authors: Molina Brenda G. , del Valle Luis J. , Casanovas Jordi , Lanzalaco Sonia , Pérez‐Madrigal Maria M. , Turon Pau , Armelin Elaine , Alemán Carlos
Published: April 2021

Rapid detection of bacterial presence on implantable medical devices is essential to prevent biofilm formation, which consists of densely packed bacteria colonies able to withstand antibiotic‐mediated killing. In this work, a smart approach is presented to integrate electrochemical sensors for detecting bacterial infections in biomedical implants made of isotactic polypropylene (i‐PP) using chemical assembly. The electrochemical detection is based on the capacity of conducting polymers (CPs) to detect extracellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) released from cellular respiration of bacteria, which allows distinguishing prokaryotic from eukaryotic cells. Oxygen plasma‐functionalized free‐standing i‐PP, coated with a layer (≈1.1 µm in thickness) of CP nanoparticles obtained by oxidative polymerization, is used as working electrode for the anodic polymerization of a second CP layer (≈8.2 µm in thickness), which provides very high electrochemical activity and stability. The resulting layered material, i‐PPf/CP2, detects the electro‐oxidation of NADH in physiological media with a sensitivity 417 µA cm−2 and a detection limit up to 0.14 × 10−3 m, which is below the concentration of extracellular NADH found for bacterial cultures of biofilm‐positive and biofilm‐negative strains.
Atomically Thin Quantum Spin Hall Insulators
Authors: Lodge Michael S. , Yang Shengyuan A. , Mukherjee Shantanu , Weber Bent
Published: April 2021

Atomically thin topological materials are attracting growing attention for their potential to radically transform classical and quantum electronic device concepts. Among them is the quantum spin Hall (QSH) insulator—a 2D state of matter that arises from interplay of topological band inversion and strong spin–orbit coupling, with large tunable bulk bandgaps up to 800 meV and gapless, 1D edge states. Reviewing recent advances in materials science and engineering alongside theoretical description, the QSH materials library is surveyed with focus on the prospects for QSH‐based device applications. In particular, theoretical predictions of nontrivial superconducting pairing in the QSH state toward Majorana‐based topological quantum computing are discussed, which are the next frontier in QSH materials research.
Bottom‐Up Quasi‐Epitaxial Growth of Hybrid Perovskite from Solution Process—Achieving High‐Efficiency Solar Cells via Template​‐Guided Crystallization
Authors: Zhang Hengkai , Qin Minchao , Chen Zhiliang , Yu Wei , Ren Zhiwei , Liu Kuan , Huang Jiaming , Zhang Yaokang , Liang Qiong , Chandran Hrisheekesh Thachoth , Fong Patrick W. K. , Zheng Zijian , Lu Xinhui , Li Gang
Published: April 2021

Epitaxial growth gives the highest‐quality crystalline semiconductor thin films for optoelectronic devices. Here, a universal solution‐processed bottom‐up quasi‐epitaxial growth of highly oriented α‐formamidinium lead triiodide (α‐FAPbI3) perovskite film via a two‐step method is reported, in which the crystal orientation of α‐FAPbI3 film is precisely controlled through the synergetic effect of methylammonium chloride and the large‐organic cation butylammonium bromide. In situ GIWAXS visualizes the BA‐related intermediate phase formation at the bottom of film, which serves as a guiding template for the bottom‐up quasi‐epitaxial growth in the subsequent annealing process. The template‐guided epitaxially grown BAFAMA perovskite film exhibits increased crystallinity, preferred crystallographic orientation, and reduced defects. Moreover, the BAFAMA perovskite solar cells demonstrate decent stability, maintaining 95% of their initial power conversion efficiency after 2600 h ambient storage, and 4‐time operation condition lifetime enhancement.
Constructing a Highly Efficient Aligned Conductive Network to Facilitate Depolarized High‐Areal‐Capacity Electrodes in Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Kai , Yang Luyi , Wang Zijian , Guo Bin , Song Zhibo , Fu Yanda , Ji Yuchen , Liu Mingqiang , Zhao Wenguang , Liu Xinhua , Yang Shichun , Pan Feng
Published: April 2021

In order to prepare electrodes with high mass loading and areal capacities, the key issue is to achieve depolarization for both ion and electron transfer on the electrode material surface. In this work, through copolymerization of xanthan gum (XG) and amorphophallus konjac gum (KG) followed by an ice‐templating method, aligned electrodes with high areal mass loading of active materials are prepared. In addition to firmly holding active materials together, the prepared KG–XG copolymer also facilitates improved effective porosity as well as homogeneous dispersion of conductive agents (i.e., CNTs). Consequently, with minimum inactive components (i.e., binder and conductive agents), the proposed electrode structure delivers good cycling stability and rate capability under high areal loading (as high as 200 mg cm−2). The excellent electrochemical performance can be attributed to the unique aligned structure where the robust conductive network provides an efficient electron and lithium‐ion pathway, and the homogenous porosity is beneficial for the electrolyte percolation, hence the reduced polarization during charge transfer. In addition, this electrode preparation method is found to be universal as it is suitable for various types of anode and cathode materials.
Improved detection sensitivity using an optimal eDNA preservation and extraction workflow and its application to threatened sawfishes
Authors: Cooper Madalyn K. , Huerlimann Roger , Edmunds Richard C. , Budd Alyssa M. , Le Port Agnès , Kyne Peter M. , Jerry Dean R. , Simpfendorfer Colin A.
Published: April 2021

Pressures on coastal ecosystems are increasing and aquatic species that are restricted to these habitats are facing the threat of extinction. However, the true extent of many threatened and rare aquatic species, especially elasmobranchs, remains unclear due to high levels of data deficiency and poor efficacy of traditional survey methods. Sawfishes (Pristidae), a family of shark‐like rays, are among the most threatened and rare elasmobranch species and are difficult to detect in turbid, coastal habitats. Reliable cost‐effective tools to detect these species are urgently needed to increase their conservation potential.

Characterization of environmental DNA (eDNA) extracted from water samples has garnered significant appeal for detection of rare and threatened species. To assist conservation and monitoring efforts for sawfishes using eDNA, species‐specific TaqMan quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays were developed and validated to detect 1.25–5 copies of a 12S rRNA gene fragment. Filter samples were collected in Northern Territory, Australia to assess the utility of the developed eDNA assays and compare the efficacy of preservation and extraction workflows for detecting rare species.

Dwarf sawfish (Pristis clavata) were detected in three of 20 sites, and there was a significant effect of preservation and extraction workflow on total eDNA yield and subsequent detection success. Longmire's preserved samples extracted using glycogen‐aided precipitation yielded a significantly higher concentration of total eDNA (n = 60; β = 1.27, t(95) = 8.172, P < 0.0001) and yielded positive P. clavata eDNA detections compared to ethanol preserved samples extracted using QIAGEN DNeasy kit, which did not yield any positive detections.

The optimized eDNA assays were developed to support monitoring efforts for endangered sawfishes. Importantly, this study demonstrates that choice of preservation and extraction workflow requires careful consideration, especially when detection of rare or threatened species can have important management and conservation outcomes.
Osteology ofUnenlagia comahuensis(Theropoda, Paraves, Unenlagiidae) from the Late Cretaceous of Patagonia
Authors: Novas Fernando E. , Agnolín Federico L. , Motta Matias J. , Brissón Egli Federico
Published: April 2021

Unenlagia comahuensiswas originally described as a phylogenetic link between nonavian dinosaurs and birds. Later it was interpreted by some authors as belonging to the deinonychosaurian clade Dromaeosauridae, and more recently as phylogenetically closer to birds than to dromaeosaurids. The only known specimen is represented by an incomplete skeleton, including vertebrae, incomplete scapular girdle, pelvis, and limbs, coming from Upper Cretaceous beds of Neuquén province, Patagonia, Argentina. The aim of the present paper is to include a detailed anatomical description ofUnenlagia(currently only known by preliminary descriptions). Detailed analysis ofUnenlagiaanatomy resulted in the recognition of one possible additional Unenlagiidae synapomorphy (i.e., the presence of cup‐like iliac articulation on ischium). We recognize derived anatomical traits thatUnenlagiaand kin share with birds, lending support to the interpretation that unenlagiids are stem‐Avialae. Particularly, some appendicular features (e.g., scapula with subtriangular and relatively reduced acromion, poor outward projection of the glenoid and glenoidal lips on the scapula, lateral orientation of scapular glenoid, craniolaterally oriented deltopectoral crest of humerus) may be related to the acquisition of anatomical novelties that in birds are associated with flight. The present contribution onUnenlagiaprovides new data regarding the early evolution of avian features.
pH‐Dependent Aqueous Solution‐Grown Highly Nanocrystalline Nickel Cobalt Sulfides (NiCo2S4)
Authors: Jeon Youngjin , Choi Kwanbeom , Lee Seungje , Heo Jungseok
Published: April 2021

NiCo2S4 is an important bimetallic spinel‐type sulfide that is typically synthesized using a two‐step method, which commonly involves water as a reaction medium. Here, we show that highly crystalline and high surface area NiCo2S4 could be synthesized into a nanoflake‐entangled shape. Control of solution pH under a hydrothermal condition affects the compositions and morphologies of products. It reveals that the pKas of two transition metal ions and l‐cysteine (l‐Cys) play a crucial role in the formation of NiCo2S4. Various spectroscopic analyses were performed to characterize these products, including X‐ray diffraction, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, gas sorption, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Comparison of the influence of massive open online courses and traditional teaching methods in medical education in China: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Gao Junwei , Yang Ling , Zou Jiao , Fan Xiaotang
Published: April 2021

In the past 5 years, the MOOC‐based teaching method has been extensively applied as an experimental educational method in medical education in China. However, the effects of this teaching method on medical education are still controversial and ambiguous. To assess the effectiveness of the MOOC‐based teaching method in medical education in China, we conducted the meta‐analysis. Literature search was performed through the PubMed, Embase, Web of Knowledge and CNKI databases through March 3, 2020. Studies evaluating the effectiveness of the MOOC‐based teaching method in medical education in China were included in our meta‐analysis. All data were pooled using a fixed‐ or random‐effect model based on a heterogeneity test. Hedges' g was calculated to evaluate the effectiveness of the MOOC‐based teaching method on the final exam knowledge scores of participants. Subgroup analyses were also carried out. There were 27 studies (25 records) identified in our meta‐analysis. The final exam knowledge scores of participants were statistically higher in the MOOC group compared with the controls in medical courses in China (Hedges' g = 1.080, 95%CI 0.592–1.567, p < 0.001). Obvious heterogeneity across studies was found in the study. Further analysis demonstrated that a significant difference in favor of the MOOC‐based teaching method compared with the traditional teaching method in medical students and doctors. The MOOC‐based teaching method may be applicable to medical education in China, strengthening the roles of MOOCs in medical education.
Determination and structural characterization of ravidasvir metabolites by LC coupled to triple quadrupole linear ion trap MS: Application to pharmacokinetics and phase I metabolism in rats
Authors: Kaddah Mohamed Mohamed Yousri , Talaat Wael , El Demellawy Maha A.
Published: April 2021

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an infectious disease that has become a global clinical issue because of its significant morbidity and mortality. Novel anti‐hepatitis C drugs are continuously developed to decrease the pervasiveness of the infection globally. A synthetic ravidasvir, benzimidazole‐naphthylene‐imidazole derivatives, has been used as an anti‐HCV drug. This study determined the metabolites of ravidasvir and its pharmacokinetics in rats using information‐dependent acquisition and multiple reaction monitoring scanning modes in linear ion trap LC–MS/MS instrument, respectively. Two time‐programming linear‐gradient chromatographic methods were employed using a Kinetex C18 column (50 × 3 mm, 2.6 μm) and a Luna HILIC column (100 × 4.6 mm, 3 μm) for the qualitative and quantitative determination of ravidasvir and its metabolites, respectively. In silico prediction where sites in a molecule are susceptible to metabolism by cytochrome P450 was implemented, which helped in proposing the metabolic pathway of ravidasvir. The most dominant metabolite in rat liver microsomal samples was oxidative ravidasvir, where one O‐demethylated metabolite and eight isomers of the oxidative ravidasvir metabolites were identified. The study provides essential data for proposing the metabolic pathway and successfully applied it to determine the pharmacokinetics of ravidasvir in rat plasma.
A new simple method for quantification of cilostazol and its active metabolite in human plasma by LC–MS/MS: Application to pharmacokinetics of cilostazol associated with CYP genotypes in healthy Chinese population
Authors: Shen Yuting , Jiang Bo , Hu Xinhua , Chen Jinliang , Xu Yichao , Ruan Zourong , Yang Dandan , Lou Honggang
Published: April 2021

A simple, sensitive, and fully automated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous quantification of cilostazol (CIL) and its active metabolite, 3,4‐dehydro cilostazol (CIL‐M), in human plasma. Plasma samples were processed by protein precipitation in 2 mL 96‐deep‐well plates, and all liquid transfer steps were performed through robotic liquid handling workstation, enabling the whole procedure fast, compared to the reported methods. Separation of analytes was successfully achieved on a UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.7 μm) with mobile phase A (5 mM ammonium formate containing 0.1% formic acid) and mobile phase B (methanol) at a flow rate of 0.30 mL min−1. The total run time was 3.5 min per sample. Mass spectrometric detection was conducted by electrospray ion source in positive ion multiple reaction monitoring mode. Calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 1.0–800 ng·mL−1 for CIL and 0.05–400 ng·mL−1 for CIL‐M. The coefficient of variation for the assay’s precision was 12.3%, and the accuracy was 88.8–99.8%. It was fully validated and successfully applied to assess the influence of CYP genotypes on the pharmacokinetics of CIL after oral administration of 50 mg tablet formulations of CIL to healthy Chinese volunteers. The results suggest that, in Chinese population, the genotype of CYP3A5 affects the plasma exposure of CIL.
Structural Characterization of an Alkali‐Soluble Polysaccharide from Angelica sinensis and Its Antitumor Activity in Vivo
Authors: Zhao Yan , Feng Yingying , Jing Xue , Liu Yining , Liu Anjun
Published: April 2021

A novel alkali‐soluble polysaccharide (AASP) was isolated from Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels under aqueous alkali treatment, and its structural characterization and antitumor activity in Vivo were evaluated in present study. Results of HPGPC and IC revealed that AASP was a neutral polysaccharide containing Ara, Gal and Glc in the mole ratio of 1.00 : 2.26 : 24.43, with the average molecular weight of 4.7 kDa. Periodate oxidation, Smith degradation, methylation, FT‐IR, and NMR analyses further demonstrated that a preliminary structure of AASP was proposed as follows: (1→3)‐linked arabinose, (1→6)‐linked galactose, and (1→), (1→4), (1→6), (1→3,6)‐linked glucose with α‐ and β‐configuration. In Vivo antitumor assays, AASP exhibited prominent antitumor effects on H22 hepatoma cells with an inhibitory ratio of 48.57 % and effectively protected thymuses and spleens of tumor‐bearing mice. Besides, AASP displayed a proliferation stimulating activity of immunocytes (splenocytes, peritoneal macrophages and natural killer cells), and an auxo‐action for cytokines release (TNF‐α, IL‐2 and IFN‐γ), leading to the apoptosis of H22 solid tumors cells via G0/G1 phase arrested. The above data demonstrated that AASP holds great application potential to be a safe and effective antitumor supplement in the future.
Performance optimization of an industrial natural gas dehydration process to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission
Authors: Anisi Hossein , Shahhosseini Shahrokh , Fallah Abbas
Published: April 2021

Natural gas dehydration using multi‐layer adsorption beds is one of the most essential processes in gas processing plants, where the water molecule is removed from raw gas by a continuous cyclic temperature swing adsorption operation. In the present research, a commercial adsorption unit for dehydration of natural gas has been studied, and the effects of the volume of adsorbents in the multi‐layer adsorption beds on the overall performance of the process have been investigated using a precise mathematical model. The numerical method of lines (NMOL) has been applied to solve the partial differential equations (PDEs) demonstrating the fixed bed. The real plant data from the industrial unit have been used for validation of the model. The simulated breakthrough time, bed pressure drop, and dried gas temperature are found to be in good agreement with experimental measurements with an error of less than 4%. The modelling results are applied to obtain the optimum adsorbents layers' configuration using response surface methodology (RSM). The objective functions are pressure drop and water breakthrough time, while variables are the length of two molecular sieve layers with different particle sizes, which are loaded in each adsorption column. The results indicated that an 18.45% reduction in the direct and indirect greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission (35 369.59 MT/year) during the regeneration cycle and a significant decrease in energy consumption (623 609 GJ/year) can be achieved by applying the optimal configuration. Moreover, 1 year of longer continuous operation (by avoiding nearly 45 regenerations) is another desirable outcome of the optimization.
Determination of species of some wood veneers using machine vision
Authors: Sözen Eser , Bardak Timuçin
Published: April 2021

The veneer industry is widely used in many countries of the world. Properties such as obtaining curved surfaces, concealing defects, usability in different designs, and patterns can be counted as the main advantages of veneers compared to solid wood. Although advanced production and quality control systems have developed in coating production, the number of countries where traditional production methods are used is quite high. The biggest problem in transition to advanced systems is investment costs. Therefore, companies allocate low budgets for growth. This study carried out machine vision estimation of different types of veneers obtained by the quarter‐cutting and rotary methods. Fifteen different veneers samples were used in the study. Over 923 features were extracted from 75 veneer images to determine the selected features. Artificial neural network and decision tree techniques were used as decision‐making algorithms. It was determined that the artificial neural network made predictions with higher accuracy in estimating the veneer type. Rays, annual rings, and light‐dark color contrast were among the parameters effective in machine vision prediction. The importance of data is increasing in businesses that are undergoing digital transformation and automation. Today, data are expressed not only in numbers or texts, but also in features extracted from images. With this study, numerical features were extracted from the veneer images and species predictions were made. It was determined that among the algorithms used, the artificial neural network yielded more accurate results than the decision tree technique.