bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A PHASE DIAGRAM OF THE ALLOYS OF THE DYSPROSIUM-COPPER BINARY SYSTEM
Authors: ZHENG JIAN-XUAN  , XU GUO-XIONG  ,   广西大学物理系
Published: November 2020

A phasediagram of the alloys of the dysprosium-copper binary system has been determined by means of X-ray diffraction and differential thermal analysis techniques. Its constitutional diagram has been constructed. Two eutectic reactions occur at 12 and 83 wt%Cu approximately, and with characteristic temperatures of 808 and 88°C, respectively. At room temperature three stable intermetallic compounds have been found, namely DyCu, DyCu2 and DyCu5. The DyCu and DyCu2 are formed by peritectic reactions at 840 and 885°C respectively, and DyCu5 melt congruently at 97°C. However, another intermetallic compound DyCur forms at 89°C periteetically and decomposes eutectoidally at 848°C as it is cooling slowly. The solid solubility of Dy in Cu is undetectable, and the solid solubility of Cu in Dy is less than 0.2 wt%Cu at room temperature.
CAUSES AND CONTROL METHODS OF MAGNETIC PARAMETER DRIFTS FOR MAGNETIC BUBBLE LPE GARNET FILMS
Authors: SUN SHEN-TAI  , XU ZU-HENG  , DAI JING-LAI  , FEI BO-MEI  ,   中国科学院上海冶金研究所
Published: November 2020

The causes and control methods of the magnetic parameter drifts for magnetic bubble LPB garnet films are investigated. It is considered that the main cause of the magnetic parameter drifts is the garnet heterogeneous nucleation and growth of the supersaturated melt. The phenomenon of melt compositional drift is explained in terms of the effective concentration of melt nutrient Reff = R4-Rn-Re, where R4 is the original concentration of the nutrient, Rn is the nutrient concentration consumed by the heterogeneous nucleation and growth, and Re is the nutrient concentration consumed by the LPE films. The eonsumption of melt nutrient concontration in LPE process is equal to Rn+Re, and the effect of Rn on the magnetic parameters of LPE garnet films is much greater than Re. In the reheating control process Rn= 0, and the melt is relatively stable. Stirring of substrates may accelerate the heterogeneous nucleation and growth of the melt.
DAMPING EFFECT ON THE NONLINEAR STABILIZATION OF STIMULATED BRILLOUIN SCATTERING PROCESS
Authors: HE XIAN-TU  ,   北京8009信箱
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we investigated the stabilization of stimulated Brillouin scattering due to the non-linearity. We are mainly interested in the Landau damping effect on non-linear stabilization, we thus solved the time, space and time-space equations and obtained the approximate analytical expressions for the field energy densities, field amplitude, saturation time and space size etc. as functions of various physical parameters.
AN ANALYTICAL METHOD FOR INDEXING X-RAY POWDER PATTERNS OF MONOCLINIC SUBSTANCES
Authors: GUO CHANG-LIN  , MA LI-TAI  ,   中国科学院上海硅酸盐研究所
Published: November 2020

In this paper a more simple and flexible analytical method for indexing X-ray powder patterns of monoclinic substances by using computer is proposed. The lattice parameter b can be obtained from the repeat number m of δ value of every pair of diffraction lines in δ-m chart and their linear relationship. By the reducing procedure the reciprocal lattice is projected on the a*-c*plane and the angle of each pair of reciprocal vectors can be calculated from the Qnkl data of each triplet of reciprocal points. According to the repeat number M in β-M chart the monoclinic angle β can be obtained and then the lattice parameters a and c can be calculated. Finally the indexing of the entire diffraction patterns is made by iterative correction method for indexing powder patterns. The computer program of the analytical method is given. The indexing of two monoclinic substances nickel acetate hydrate (C4H6NiO)4·4H2O) and potassium tungstate (K2WO4) has been made by using this method, the result proves that the method is fairly applicable.
Advance in interface and characterizations of sulfide solid electrolyte materials
Authors: Zhang Qiao-Bao , Gong Zheng-Liang , Yang Yong ,   College of Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China,   College of Energy, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China,   State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
Published: November 2020

The development of high-energy density and high-safety all-solid-state lithium battery (ASSLB) technology has important practical significance for promoting the upgrading of lithium battery technology and the strengthening of technological development in this field. The solid electrolyte is a core component of the ASSLB. The sulfide solid electrolyte is regarded as one of the most promising solid electrolyte candidates for practical application in ASSLBs due to its high ionic conductivity, better mechanical ductility, and good interface contact with the electrode. However, its practical application is severely hampered by the issues of poor air stability and interface problems, including interface side reactions, lithium dendritic growth, and interface mechanical failure. In this review, we first summarize the research methods and degradation mechanisms of the air stability of sulfide solid electrolytes, and the strategies and methods to improve their air stability. Then, the electrochemical stability, interface compatibility and related interfacial modification strategies for sulfide electrolyte/electrode interface are summarized and discussed. Further, the research progress of in-situ characterization technologies for sulfide solid electrolyte/electrode interfaces in recent years is analyzed and summarized. Finally, an outlook on the future research and development of stable interfaces in sulfide solid electrolyte based ASSLBs is highlighted.
Effect of magnetic field on stability in mushy layer during binary alloy solidification
Authors: Fan Hai-Long , Chen Ming-Wen ,   School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
Published: November 2020

During directional solidification of binary alloy mixtures, instability in the solid/liquid interface appears due to constitutional undercooling. As a result of this instability, a reactive porous medium, namely mushy layer, is formed, and it separates the liquid phase from the solid phase completely. The intrinsic structure of the mushy layer is of fine-scale dendritic crystal that shelters solute in the interstitial fluid. In a gravitational field, the rejection of lighter solute components from an advancing solidification front brings about unstable density gradient. Ensuing convective motions in the mush are driven by a density difference. The convection can change the solid matrix of the mushy layer. Hence, the dynamic response of the mushy layer is driven by interaction among heat transfer, solute transport and convection. As a contactless control tool, external magnetic field can change the heat and solute transport, which has a significant effect on the phase change process. Therefore, when magnetic field, thermal diffusion, solute transport and buoyancy convection are considered simultaneously in the phase transformation process, the mechanism of mushy region will become more complex and interesting. In this paper, the effect of external magnetic field on the stability of mushy layer during binary alloy solidification is studied. The coupling effects of magnetic field, temperature field, concentration field and convection are considered in the model. Including the direct mode and the oscillation mode, the resulting dispersion relation reveals the influence of magnetic field on the stability of mushy layer through linear stability analysis. It is found that the Lorentz force can reduce the instability effect which is caused by buoyancy convection. In the oscillation mode, an external magnetic field brings about a stabilizing effect on the mushy layer, but in the direct mode, the effect of external magnetic field on stability of the mushy layer is uncertain. In conclusion, the finding in this paper provides an important theoretical reference for improving products quality by applying an external magnetic field in the metals processing industry.
The Birth of a Child as Experienced and Narrated in the 1990s Finland
Authors:   Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland, Marander-Eklund Lena
Published: November 2020

In this article, I examine the way Swedish-speaking first-time mothers living in Finland narrate their experience of giving birth between 1993 and 1997. The object is narrating about the moment of birth and experiential dimension of giving birth. This includes an analysis of stylistic means used in narration, and the points of narration. The material consists of childbirth stories told by 14 Swedish-speaking first-time mothers in interviews during the 1990s. I define the story as a personal experience narrative. The stories show that the women’s experience is embodied. The birth-givers are more focused on giving birth than giving birth to a child and they relate to ambient norms and values in their narration.
Rituals of Social Legitimization in the Lithuanian Childbirth Customs System: Traditions and Innovations
Authors:   Lithuanian Institute of History, Paukštytė-Šaknienė Rasa
Published: November 2020

By comparing data of the descriptions of birth customs of Lithuania Minor at the end of the seventeenth century and personal fieldwork data collected in the villages and small towns of south-eastern Lithuania (Dzūkija ethnographic region) in 1992–2007, I discuss the problem of modernization of Lithuanian culture through the diachronic change of structural elements of the birth cycle performed after the birth of a child. I distinguish the three consecutive stages in the cycle of birth customs – the first visit to the baby and the mother (lankynos), baptism, and churching of the woman – and make an attempt to reveal changes in them in the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries in terms of historical development, chronological duration, and social interaction.
Unlived Life: The Death and Funeral of a Child in Slavic Traditional Culture
Authors:   Russian Academy of Sciences, Russia, Sedakova Irina
Published: November 2020

This ethnolinguistic study based on the analysis of the archival and field data from various Slavic traditions gives an account of the reasons, meaning, and folk comprehension of untimely death – that of a child. Such a tragic event is seen as a result of intricate reasons: God’s will, the fate, the verdict of the Fates, parents’ ban on the rules, and lack of veneration of the saints, black magic, the evil eye, curse, etc. The amalgamation of Christian views and the pre-Christian perception of early death brings about a combination of notions that seem to be impossible, even more since fatalism comes along with the simultaneous assurance that an early death can be averted with the help of rites and magic acts performed on a newborn baby. Magic programming of a baby’s longevity, which starts with the conception and goes through the delivery and postpartum period, various signs, omens, fortune-telling, and prophetic dreams are scrutinized in the first part of the article. Further on the specifics of the funeral of a baby are analysed, with special attention paid to the magic means to separate the baby from the mother and to prevent the death of other children. The types of commemoration and the obstacles of a baby’s fate in the other world are also investigated in terms of reflecting the behaviour of the deceased child’s relatives. To conclude, the author depicts the stability of some archaic beliefs which one can observe at a child’s funeral, and commemorative practices nowadays.
Acromegaly and Pregnancy: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Bandeira Diego Barata , Olivatti Thaina Oliveira Felicio , Bolfi Fernanda , Boguszewski Cesar Luiz , Nogueira Vania dos Santos Nunes-
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Although the association between acromegaly and pregnancy has been studied, recent evidence synthesis is lacking.

Objective: To evaluate the association between acromegaly and pregnancy in terms of disease control and newborn/maternal outcomes.

Methods: We will perform a systematic review according to Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for systematic reviews of etiology and risk. We will include studies with pregnant women, over 18 years old, diagnosed with acromegaly before or during the first trimester of pregnancy. Studies with pregnancy before acromegaly diagnosis will be excluded. We will consider cohort and case-control studies, and case series (at least 3 participants). Maternal primary outcomes will be acromegaly control, preterm birth, presence of diabetes, hypertension and/or eclampsia, and frequency of abortion. Newborn primary outcomes will be perinatal mortality and low birthweight. General and adaptive search strategies have been created for the Embase, Medline, LILACS, and CENTRAL databases. Two independent reviewers will assess eligibility of the studies, extract data, and evaluate their risk of bias. For dichotomous data, effect estimates will be calculated using relative risk with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Continuous data will be expressed as means and standard deviation (SD) for each study, and the mean difference will be calculated with respective 95% CIs. For non-controlled studies, maternal outcomes will be compared pre- and postpartum, and for abortion frequency and newborn outcomes, we will perform proportional meta-analysis. Conclusion: We hope that the results of this review can help the management of pregnant women with acromegaly.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Indian Spinach (Basella spp L) Accessions Using RAPD Markers
Authors: Sobowale Olalekan Ibrahim , Akinyele Benjamin Oluwole , Odiyi Alexander Chukwunweike , Okunlola Adeyela Ibironke , Ajayi Emmanuel Oluwakayode , Aderonmu Omolara Loveth
Published: November 2020

Background: Indian spinach is one of the important underexploited tropical leafy vegetables which have high nutritional and medicinal value. Molecular marker technology has greatly accelerated the process involved in breeding programs for the improvement of various crops and its techniques have been considered to be the most suitable means of estimating genetic diversity.

Aim: The study is to determine the genetic diversity among the accessions of Indian spinach collected from South western Nigeria using molecular markers.

Methodology: Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to assay 20 accessions of Indian spinach (Basella spp) collected from the south western states of Nigeria (Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ondo and Ekiti).

Results: Results showed that RAPD markers were highly polymorphic and generated alleles ranging from two to eight. The polymorphic information content was highest for the OPT-17 primer (0.757) and the mean average was (4.23) Moreover, gene diversity (0.785) was high, and cluster analysis delineated the accessions into five groups, which indicated that a significant genetic diversity was present among the accessions studied. A dendrogram clustering method revealed five major clusters. Clusters I, II and IV had one accessions each, III had four and V had thirteen accessions.

Conclusion: The result revealed that RAPD markers are useful for genetic characterization as they provide information on the interspecific and phylogenetic statuses of the accessions. The markers also showed a genetic variability that could be exploited for varietal delineation and improvement of the vegetable in Nigeria.
Acute Renal Failure Related to Malaria in Admitted Patients in Pediatric Hospitals from Dakar, Senegal: A Series of Eleven Cases
Authors: Diongue Khadim , Ndongo Aliou Abdoulaye , Thiam Lamine , Seck Ndiogou , Gaye Amy , Sylla Assane , Ndiaye Daouda
Published: November 2020

Aims: To firstly determine the incidence of acute renal failure (ARF) related to malaria in a series of 11 cases among admitted patients at the pediatric hospitals in Dakar, Senegal and to lastly measure the performance of rapid diagnostic test (RDT) and microscopy in malaria diagnosis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a gold standard.

Study Design: A bi-centric and descriptive study was carried out.

Place and Duration of Study: From June 2018 to January 2019 in two university hospitals of Dakar, Senegal: Aristide Le Dantec university hospital and Albert Royer university hospital.

Methodology: Pediatric patients aged under 18 years with confirmed malaria by RDT or microscopy and ARF defined by anuria or oligo-anuria and a decrease in glomerular filtration rate were included. Nested PCR was performed to confirm malaria diagnosis and Plasmodium species typing.

Results: In total, 11 ARF cases (8.5%) related to malaria among 130 children infected with malaria parasites were included out of 4,474 hospitalized. Affected children were aged between 2 and 16 years with a mean age of 11 years and a sex ratio of 0.57. For malaria diagnosis, RDTs were positive for all patients while microscopy only revealed 6 cases (54.5%) as well as PCR. However, microscopy and PCR presented two discrepancies. Considering PCR as the gold standard tool, RDT showed a relative high sensitivity (100%) and zero specificity with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 54.6% while microscopy respectively showed a sensitivity and a specificity of 66.7 and 60%.

Conclusion: This study showed the relatedness between ARF and P. falciparum malaria. Even though microscopy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of malaria but microscopists must be regularly trained. In addition, RDT should always be confirmed by microscopy and preferably by PCR.
Malaria and Typhoid Fever: Prevalence, Co-Infection and Socio-Demographic Determinants among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at a Primary Healthcare Facility in Central Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Haruna Isa , Mukhtar Idris Muhammad , Sadiq Hussaini Abubakar
Published: November 2020

Aims: This study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence, co-infection and socio-demographic determinants of malaria and typhoid fever among pregnant women attending antenatal care at a primary health care facility in Central Nigeria.

Study Design: The study was a cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Keffi, Nasarawa State, between January and October, 2020.

Methodology: Blood sample (4 ml) was collected from each of the 429 consenting pregnant women attending antenatal care at Primary Healthcare Centre main market, Keffi, Nasarawa State. Malaria parasite was detected from the blood samples using one-step malaria rapid diagnostic test kit (SD Bioline, Inc, USA) and was confirmed by Gimesa stained thin and thick film microscopy while typhoid fever was diagnosed using Cromatest widal commercial antigen suspension (Linear Chemicals, Barcelona, Spain). Data collected were analysed using Smith’s Statistical Package (version 2.8, California, USA) and P value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Of the 429 pregnant women screened, 123(28.7%) had malaria, 33(7.7%) had typhoid fever while 12(2.8%) had malaria-typhoid co-infection. Malaria-typhoid co-infection was found to be higher among pregnant women aged ≤30 years (3.5%), traders (3.9%), with primary education (3.2%) and who were from rural areas (6.3%). However, only location of the pregnant women was associated with the rate of malaria-typhoid co-infection (P< 0.05) whereas age, educational status and occupation were independent of the co-infection (P> 0.05).

Conclusion: We confirmed the presence of malaria-typhoid co-infection among pregnant women in the study area. Considering it adverse effects on pregnancy and it outcome, there is need for more efforts towards it prevention, control and management.
Metrodorea flavida (K. Krause) Extracts in Pathogen Control of Senegalia polliphyla (Dc.) Seeds
Authors: Mascarini Eloisa Salvador , Garlet Juliana , Folli-Pereira Muriel Da Silva
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to determine the main pathogens present in Senegalia polliphyla (DC.) seeds and to evaluate the fungicidal potential of Metrodorea flavida (K. Krause) extracts. For this purpose, concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0% of the extract of Metrodorea flavida leaves were used, in an ethanolic or aqueous form. The experiment was carried out using the Blottertest method to assess the incidence of pathogens in seeds and after application of treatments. Thus, the effect of extracts on the incidence of pathogens and the effects of the extracts on the germination and morphological characteristics of the seedlings was analyzed. The main pathogens found in Senegalia polliphyla seeds were Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium oxysporum. The aqueous and ethanolic extracts reduced the infestation of pathogens associated with Senegalia polliphyla seeds, as well as the main fungus found: Aspergillus flavus Link. It was also found that the extracts did not influence the germination and morphological characteristics of Senegalia polliphyla seedlings in all concentrations evaluated, thus being a promising alternative for pathogen control in forest seeds.
Evaluation of Dento-craniofacial Characteristics in Monozygotic Twins - Case Study
Authors: Gomes Gabriela Rocha- , Souza Noádia Abreu , Gomes Fernanda Rocha- , Ávila Bruna de Cássia , Otoni Rejane Pereira , Falci Saulo Gabriel Moreira , Silva Thiago Fonseca-
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Monozygotic twins are a valuable sample for the study of human craniofacial growth and development.

Aims: The aim of the present study was to analyze the dento-craniofacial characteristics in monozygotic twins and to discuss the genetic, epigenetic and environmental influences in the twin’s phenotypic features.

Material and Methods: Two 21-year-old female twins attended the Dental Service of Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri were analyzed. For validation of this study, a genetic test of zygosity was performed to confirm the individuals' monozygosity. Intraoral buccal examination revealed occlusal differences as well as disagreement in the eruption of the third molars.

Results: The analysis of models showed differences in the mesio-distal diameter of the teeth of both arches, as well as disagreement in the perimeter of the mandibular arches between the two individuals. The cephalometric analysis showed remarkable differences in the vertical and horizontal parameters of the craniofacial structure. The SNA, SNB and LAFH showed differences of 10º, 9º and 3mm respectively. Additionally, the components related to the dentition also showed discrepant results.

Conclusion: It can be suggested that the dento-craniofacial characteristics present a genetic component; however, the interaction of epigenetic and environmental factors can lead to different phenotypes in univiteline twins.
Upper and Lower Extremity Injury Pattern and Severity of Motorbike Accident – A Retrospective Study
Authors: Abass Alhassan , Quaye Lawrence , Adams Yussif
Published: November 2020

Aim: This study aims at determining the upper and lower extremity injury pattern and severity of motorcycle accidents in the Tamale metropolis, Ghana.

Methods: A retrospective hospital-based study comprising data on 190 motorcycle accident victims at the Accident and Emergency Centres of three major hospitals (Tamale Teaching Hospital, Central and West Hospitals) in Tamale metropolis from February to April 2018. Demographic data, injury type, injury location, use of crash helmet and injury outcomes were retrieved from the medical records registry. Data was analysed using SPSS version 23.0. Categorical variables were compared using Chi-square test and One-way ANOVA test was done to compare groups.

Results: From the 190 victims, 78.9% were treated and discharged, 17.4% were disabled and 3.7% died. Injury mechanism was significantly (F-test = 22.64, p = 0.00) linked with injury outcome. Victims who had frontal impact collision and died (71.4%) were significantly (p<0.05) more than those who were treated and discharged (26.7%). Accident victims with upper extremity injury who became disabled (18.2%) were more (p<0.05) than those treated and discharged (16.7%). Out of the 190 victims involved in motorcycle accidents, 64.2% were not wearing crash helmet. There was significant relationship (p<0.05) between use of crash helmet and injury outcome. More (23.0%) of accident victims disabled were not wearing crash helmet and among those who died, none (0.0%) had a crash helmet on.

Conclusion: Upper and lower extremity injuries as well head and neck injuries were high among motorcycle accident victims. The study recommends capacity building for healthcare professionals to manage head, neck, upper and lower extremity injuries at the Accident and Emergency Centres. Regular training programs should be conducted by law enforcement authorities in northern Ghana to train motorcycle riders and educate them on road traffic regulations. Compliance to the use of crash helmet by motorcyclists should strongly be enforced. Further prospective studies are needed to delineate these injury patterns and ascertain reason behind non-usage of crash helmet by motorcyclist in the Metropolis.
An Investigation of Class Size on Teaching and Learning of Mathematics in Secondary Schools (A Case Study of Chikun Local Government Area) of Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Afolabi B. Y. , Wakili L. B. , Afolabi A. O. , Onwuegbunam N. E. , Ademuwagun A. A.
Published: November 2020

The correlation between class size and mathematics learning by students has been a subject of research for years. This work studied the effects of class size on the teaching and learning of mathematics in junior secondary schools in Chikun Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, Nigeria. The sample was made up of 100 students and 20 mathematics teachers randomly selected from the population. Questionnaires were administered to respondents for data collection after reliability and validation techniques were applied on the scales. The data were analysed in percentages and means. Pearson correlation analysis was applied on the variables in order to ascertain the level of correlation. It was found that class size affects class control, students’ interest and attention and the time expended in dealing with disciplinary issues in a mathematics class. It is recommended that future research be conducted that will collaborate the importance of class size on students’ learning process and achievement. The recommendations of the National Policy on Education (NPE) regarding student-teacher ratio should be implemented and teachers should be properly trained.
Antimicrobial Evaluation of Plant Parts of Rauwolfia Vomitoria
Authors: Emencheta Stephen Chijioke , Enweani Bessie Ifeoma , Oli Angus Nnamdi , Ibezim Emmanuel Chinedum , Imanyikwa Ijeoma Eucharia Olaedo
Published: November 2020

Aims: This study was aimed at evaluating the antimicrobial activities of fractions of Rauwolfia vomitoria against some isolates including; Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Microsporon canis, and Trichophyton rubrum.

Methodology: Primary extraction was done on the dried and pulverized plant samples (leaves, barks, and root) using methanol, after which the crude extracts was fractionated using butanol, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane respectively. The samples were duly labelled according to the plant parts and solvents used. Agar diffusion and dilution methods on Mueller-Hinton agar (MHA) and Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) where used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal and fungicidal concentrations (MBC/MFC) respectively. The percentage inhibition diameter growth (PIDG) of the extracts and fractions were also determined.

Results: From the results, eleven (11) samples showed inhibitory activity on one or more of the test isolates. Extended spectrum activity was observed with five (5) of the samples, including; RVL ethyl acetate, RVL n-hexane, RVB crude, RVR crude, and RVR ethyl acetate against S. typhi, E. coli, and M. canis. Antifungal activity was observed only against M. canis. The ethyl acetate fraction of the leaves (RVLE) and crude methanol extract of the bark (RVBC) gave the least MIC both against M. canis at a concentration of 25 mg/ml, while the ethyl acetate fraction of the leaves (RVLE) at 12.5 mg/ml also against M. canis gave the least MBC/MFC. Using the inhibition zone diameters (IZD), the obtained PIDG showed apparently that the ethyl acetate fraction of the leaves (RVL ethyl acetate) was the most active against S. typhi (28.57%) and E. coli (20%).

Conclusion: The study lends support to the traditional use of the plant especially in treating gastro intestinal tract and skin infections.
A Study on Haematological Profile in Clinically Suspected Cases of Neonatal Sepsis
Authors: Upadhey S. R. , Mane Avinash M. , Hulwan Atul B. , Kadam Rohit S. , Mane Dhirajkumar
Published: November 2020

The present study was a two year observational study of haematological profile in clinically suspected cases of neonatal sepsis. Study analyzed the haematological findings according to Rodwell’s haematological scoring system in neonates clinically suspicious of having sepsis. It included 108 neonates admitted in NICU of our hospital during the study period of June 2015 to May 2017. According to clinical findings, Rodwell’s hematological score and blood culture positivity 108 neonates were divided into three groups; proven sepsis, probable sepsis and no sepsis. Study show that Rodwell’s haematological scoring system is a simple, quick, cost effective tool which can be used as screening test for early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.
Banking Communications: A Perceptual Study of Customer Relations
Authors: Parajuli Seeprata , Paudel Udaya Raj , Devkota Niranjan
Published: November 2020

Hopefully, effective banking communications would improve and strengthen relationships with the stakeholders and work-team empowerment to achieve desired level of performance directing towards organizational success in changing operating and governing environments. Though the banks and their service have been advancing in Nepal, customer satisfaction in terms of banking communications is still a matter of serious concern. This paper explores perception of banking communications among the customers showcasing bank and customer relations. As a customer relation is one of the key indicators of banks profitability, the attention of banks has been gradually inclining towards customers through via more effective communication initiatives. Effective communication in banks helps their staff and customers in having knowledge about various strategic decisions that are implemented or are going to be implemented, understanding banking policies and procedures, acknowledging various issues related to banking and understanding ways forward for prosperity. The existing literature confirms a very strong positive relationship between communication in practice and perceived level of customer satisfaction. Thus, the banks must adapt proper strategies and techniques of effective communication with the valued customers. Bank procedures on communicating with customers depend on the structural sets and culture of the organization. Moreover, conceptual framework of the banking communications and customer relations also confirms the imperative need for addressing this issue more effectively, especially in changing context of Nepal. This research can be helpful to banks to know how customers perceive over all banking system and work accordingly. Also, it can be helpful to Nepal Rastra Bank for formulating banking policies and other concerned authorities can also be benefited through this research.
Conservation and people: Towards an ethical code of conduct for the use of camera traps in wildlife research
Authors: Sharma Koustubh , Fiechter Matthias , George Todd , Young Juliette , Alexander Justine Shanti , Bijoor Ajay , Suryawanshi Kulbhushansingh , Mishra Charudutt
Published: November 2020

1. Camera trapping is a widely employed tool in wildlife research, used to estimate animal abundances, understand animal movement, assess species richness and understand animal behaviour. In addition to images of wild animals, research cameras often record human images, inadvertently capturing behaviours ranging from innocuous actions to potentially serious crimes.

2. With the increasing use of camera traps, there is an urgent need to reflect on how researchers should deal with human images caught on cameras. On the one hand, it is important to respect the privacy of individuals caught on cameras, while, on the other hand, there is a larger public duty to report illegal activity. This creates ethical dilemmas for researchers.

3. Here, based on our camera‐trap research on snow leopards Panthera uncia, we outline a general code of conduct to help improve the practice of camera trap based research and help researchers better navigate the ethical‐legal tightrope of this important research tool.
SUCLA2 Arg407Trp mutation can cause a nonprogressive movement disorder – deafness syndrome
Authors: Alkhater Reem A. , Ahonen Saija , Minassian Berge A.
Published: November 2020

SUCLA2 is a component of mitochondrial succinate‐CoA ligase and nucleotide diphosphokinase activities. Its absence results in Krebs cycle failure, mitochondrial DNA depletion, and a childhood‐fatal encephalomyopathy. We describe a purely neurologic allelic form of the disease consisting of deafness, putamenal hyperintensity on MRI and a myoclonic‐dystonic movement disorder unchanging from childhood into, so far, the late fourth decade. We show that succinate supplementation circumvents the Krebs cycle block, but does not correct the neurologic disease. Our patients’ Arg407Trp mutation has been reported in children with (yet) no MRI abnormalities. It remains possible that early succinate supplementation could impact the disease.
Synthesis of MoSe2/CoSe2 Nanosheets for NIR‐Enhanced Chemodynamic Therapy via Synergistic In‐Situ H2O2 Production and Activation
Authors: Li Yang , Jia Ran , Lin Huiming , Sun Xilin , Qu Fengyu
Published: November 2020

Currently, the limited intratumoral H2O2 level restricts the development of chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Herein, MoSe2/CoSe2@PEG nanosheets are prepared to reveal NIR‐photocatalytic H2O2 generation to insure the intracellular H2O2 supplement. The formation mechanism is investigated, showing the dissolved O2 and photo‐excited electrons to determine H2O2 production via sequential single‐electron transfer process. The experimental data and density functional theory calculation further display their typical‐II heterostructure, which possesses the effective charge separation and nearly four times H2O2 generation than MoSe2@PEG. In addition, the nanocomposites also reveal the peroxidase/catalase activity, making the in‐situ H2O2 activation and ·OH generation. And, the O2 production derived from catalase‐mimic activity not only relieves hypoxia but also offers the source for H2O2 production. Because of the decreased resistance for charge transfer, MoSe2/CoSe2@PEGs also reveal more than three times enzyme‐activity for MoSe2@PEG. With the narrow band gap and high NIR‐harvest, MoSe2/CoSe2@PEG exhibits the great photothermal converting ability (62.5%). MoSe2/CoSe2@PEG reveals the novel biodegradation, and most of them can be eliminated via urine and feces within 2 weeks. Here, the computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging/photothermal imaging and the synergistic photothermal therapy/CDT treatments further make sure potential application on anticancer.
Bias‐Free Solar Water Splitting by Tetragonal Zircon BiVO4 Nanocrystal Photocathode and Monoclinic Scheelite BiVO4 Nanoporous Photoanode
Authors: Liang Xizhuang , Wang Peng , Tong Fengxia , Liu Xiaolei , Wang Cong , Wang Minrui , Zhang Qianqian , Wang Zeyan , Liu Yuanyuan , Zheng Zhaoke , Dai Ying , Huang Baibiao
Published: November 2020

p‐type tetragonal zircon BiVO4 nanocrystal photocathodes (P‐BVO) and n‐type monoclinic scheelite BiVO4 nanoporous photoanodes (N‐BVO) are prepared by a hydrothermal method and an electrochemical synthesis method, respectively. Pt nanoparticles and cobalt‐phosphate (Co‐Pi) as co‐catalysts are loaded by an electrodeposition way to improve the photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance of BiVO4 (BVO) electrodes. After modification, a monochromatic incident photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency (IPCE) of P‐BVO/Pt at 360 nm is improved by 2.2 times, and the highest IPCE of N‐BVO/Co‐Pi at 440 nm is increased by 1.7 times. The calculated electron‐hole separation yield and the charge carrier injection yield of N‐BVO/Co‐Pi at 1.23 VRHE are further improved to 80% and 86%, respectively. The surface modification also results in the latest ≈0.2% half‐cell solar‐to‐hydrogen energy conversion efficiency (HC‐STH) for a P‐BVO/Pt photocathode and a higher ≈1.16% half‐cell applied bias photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency (ABPE) for an N‐BVO/Co‐Pi photoanode. Furthermore, the prepared photoelectrodes are proved to have excellent stability for water splitting. Above all, a tandem‐type PEC cell containing the newly developed P‐BVO/Pt photocathode and an N‐BVO/Co‐Pi photoanode is built for the first time, which evolves H2 and O2 at a stoichiometric ratio of 2:1 with a bias‐free STH of 0.14%.
Direct Observation of Photoinduced Ion Migration in Lead Halide Perovskites
Authors: Liu Yongtao , Ievlev Anton V. , Borodinov Nikolay , Lorenz Matthias , Xiao Kai , Ahmadi Mahshid , Hu Bin , Kalinin Sergei V. , Ovchinnikova Olga S.
Published: November 2020

Unique optoelectronic, electronic, and sensing properties of hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites (HOIPs) are underpinned by the complex interactions between electronic and ionic states. Here, the photoinduced field ion migration in HOIPs is directly observed. Using newly developed local probe time‐resolved techniques, more significant CH3NH3+ migration than I−/Br− migration in HOIPs is unveiled. It is found that light illumination only induces CH3NH3+ migration but not I−/Br− migration. By directly observing temporal changes in bias‐induced and photoinduced ion migration in device conditions, it is revealed that light illumination suppresses the bias‐induced ion redistribution in the lateral device. These findings, being a necessary compensation of previous understandings of ion migration in HOIPs based on simulations and static and/or indirect measurements, offer advanced insights into the distinct light effects on the migration of organic cation and halides in HOIPs, which are expected to be helpful for improving the performance and the long‐term stability of HOIPs optoelectronics.
Recent Progress in the Synergistic Combination of Nanoparticle‐Mediated Hyperthermia and Immunotherapy for Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Stephen Zachary R. , Zhang Miqin
Published: November 2020

Immunotherapy has demonstrated great clinical success in certain cancers, driven primarily by immune checkpoint blockade and adoptive cell therapies. Immunotherapy can elicit strong, durable responses in some patients, but others do not respond, and to date immunotherapy has demonstrated success in only a limited number of cancers. To address this limitation, combinatorial approaches with chemo‐ and radiotherapy have been applied in the clinic. Extensive preclinical evidence suggests that hyperthermia therapy (HT) has considerable potential to augment immunotherapy with minimal toxicity. This progress report will provide a brief overview of immunotherapy and HT approaches and highlight recent progress in the application of nanoparticle (NP)‐based HT in combination with immunotherapy. NPs allow for tumor‐specific targeting of deep tissue tumors while potentially providing more even heating. NP‐based HT increases tumor immunogenicity and tumor permeability, which improves immune cell infiltration and creates an environment more responsive to immunotherapy, particularly in solid tumors.
Mutually Reinforced Polymer–Graphene Bilayer Membranes for Energy‐Efficient Acoustic Transduction
Authors: Khan Assad U. , Zeltzer Gabriel , Speyer Gavriel , Croft Zacary L. , Guo Yichen , Nagar Yehiel , Artel Vlada , Levi Adi , Stern Chen , Naveh Doron , Liu Guoliang
Published: November 2020

Graphene holds promise for thin, ultralightweight, and high‐performance nanoelectromechanical transducers. However, graphene‐only devices are limited in size due to fatigue and fracture of suspended graphene membranes. Here, a lightweight, flexible, transparent, and conductive bilayer composite of polyetherimide and single‐layer graphene is prepared and suspended on the centimeter scale with an unprecedentedly high aspect ratio of 105. The coupling of the two components leads to mutual reinforcement and creates an ultrastrong membrane that supports 30 000 times its own weight. Upon electromechanical actuation, the membrane pushes a massive amount of air and generates high‐quality acoustic sound. The energy efficiency is ≈10–100 times better than state‐of‐the‐art electrodynamic speakers. The bilayer membrane's combined properties of electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, optical transparency, thermal stability, and chemical resistance will promote applications in electronics, mechanics, and optics.
Mg‐Doped VO2@ZrO2 Core−Shell Nanoflakes for Thermochromic Smart Windows with Enhanced Performance
Authors: Wen Zuohao , Ke Yujie , Feng Chengchen , Fang Shuliang , Sun Miuyang , Liu Xinghai , Long Yi
Published: November 2020

The VO2‐based smart windows can dynamically and reversibly adjust the indoor solar irradiation to reduce the energy consumption for building glasses. This paper reports the first successful preparation of Mg‐doped VO2@ZrO2 core−shell nanocrystals with promoted thermochromic performance as well as tunable appearance and wettability. The achieved combination of Tlum of 52.4% and ∆Tsol of 7.1% is comparable to the best‐reported results of VO2‐based core−shell rod structures. The thickness of ZrO2 shell is tunable between 3 and 14 nm, resulting in a slightly hydrophobic surface and a slight color change toward blue‐green and brighter produced films. The preparation method based on hydrothermal and UV‐curing methods is facile. This work may inspire future development of VO2 synthesis, their structure−property, and the application the thermochromic films for energy‐saving purposes in buildings or automobiles.
Pseudo‐Waveform‐Selective Metasurfaces and their Limited Performance
Authors: Nakasha Tomoyuki , Phang Sendy , Wakatsuchi Hiroki
Published: November 2020

In recent years, metasurfaces composed of lumped circuit components, including nonlinear Schottky diodes, have been reported to be capable of sensing particular electromagnetic waves even at the same frequency depending on their waveforms, or more specifically, their pulse widths. In this study, analogous waveform‐selective phenomena using only linear circuits and linear media are reported. Although such linear metasurfaces are analytically and numerically demonstrated to exhibit variable absorption performance, it cannot strictly be categorized as waveform‐selective absorption. It is due to the fact that the waveform‐selective responses in the linear metasurfaces originated from the dispersion behaviors of the structures rather than the frequency conversion seen in nonlinear waveform‐selective metasurfaces. These linear structures are thus referred to as pseudo‐waveform‐selective metasurfaces. Additionally, it is shown that the pseudo‐waveform‐selective metasurfaces have limited performance unless nonlinearity is introduced. These results and findings confirm the advantages of nonlinear waveform‐selective metasurfaces, which can be exploited to provide an additional degree of freedom to address existing electromagnetic problems/challenges involving even waves at the same frequency.
Interface Engineering of Co‐LDH@MOF Heterojunction in Highly Stable and Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Zhenxing , Zhang Xin , Kang Yikun , Yu Cheng Cheng , Wen Yangyang , Hu Mingliang , Meng Dong , Song Weiyu , Yang Yang
Published: November 2020

The electrochemical splitting of water into hydrogen and oxygen is considered one of the most promising approaches to generate clean and sustainable energy. However, the low efficiency of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) acts as a bottleneck in the water splitting process. Herein, interface engineering heterojunctions between ZIF‐67 and layered double hydroxide (LDH) are designed to enhance the catalytic activity of the OER and the stability of Co‐LDH. The interface is built by the oxygen (O) of Co‐LDH and nitrogen (N) of the 2‐methylimidazole ligand in ZIF‐67, which modulates the local electronic structure of the catalytic active site. Density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the interfacial interaction can enhance the strength of the CoOout bond in Co‐LDH, which makes it easier to break the H‐Oout bond and results in a lower free energy change in the potential‐determining step at the heterointerface in the OER process. Therefore, the Co‐LDH@ZIF‐67 exhibits superior OER activity with a low overpotential of 187 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and long‐term electrochemical stability for more than 50 h. This finding provides a design direction for improving the catalytic activity of OER.
A Simple Approach for Unraveling Optoelectronic Processes in Organic Solar Cells under Short‐Circuit Conditions
Authors: Schopp Nora , Brus Viktor V. , Lee Jaewon , Bazan Guillermo C. , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen
Published: November 2020

The short‐circuit current (Jsc) of organic solar cells is defined by the interplay of exciton photogeneration in the active layer, geminate and non‐geminate recombination losses and free charge carrier extraction. The method proposed in this work allows the quantification of geminate recombination and the determination of the mobility‐lifetime product (µτ) as a single integrated parameter for charge transport and non‐geminate recombination. Furthermore, the extraction efficiency is quantified based on the obtained µτ product. Only readily available experimental methods (current‐voltage characteristics, external quantum efficiency measurements) are employed, which are coupled with an optical transfer matrix method simulation. The required optical properties of common organic photovoltaic (OPV) materials are provided in this work. The new approach is applied to three OPV systems in inverted or conventional device structures, and the results are juxtaposed against the µτ values obtained by an independent method based on the voltage–capacitance spectroscopy technique. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the new method can accurately predict the optimal active layer thickness.
Developing functional relationships between temperature and cover crop species vegetative growth and development
Authors: Munyon Jay W. , Bheemanahalli Raju , Walne Charles Hunt , Reddy K. Raja
Published: November 2020

Cover crops planted in the offseason are subjected to uncontrollable weather variables that limit agro‐ecological services through modifications in growth and development. The growth of five cover crop species was investigated in response to an array of day/night temperatures, 17/9, 22/14, 27/19, 32/24, and 37/29 °C. Shoot and root parameters were measured 33 d after planting. Quadratic functions best described most of the root and shoot dynamics in response to increasing temperatures except for a linear response of plant height in crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) and mustard (Brassica juncea). Temperature minimum (Tmin), maximum (Tmax), and optimum (Topt) for shoot traits varied from 9.8 to 10.6, 37.5 to 43.2, and 23.9 to 26.5 °C, respectively. The Tmin for root traits varied significantly, ranging from 8.5 to 10.8 °C. Topt and Tmax ranged from 22 to 25.7 and 35.2 to 40.6 °C, respectively. On average, the Topt for root traits was significantly lower than shoot traits in four of five species. Regardless of temperatures, cover crop species recorded higher biomass partitioning to shoot (62%) than to root, with a maximum proportion of biomass partitioned to shoot in crimson clover and Mighty Mustard Pacific Gold (80%) than other species (64–70%). The results of this study will help growers choose mixes of cover crops with the same temperature range to plant in the same climatic conditions during fallow periods. The cardinal temperatures and functional algorithms for growth and developmental traits could be used to develop models for cover crops under different temperature conditions.