bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composition and Physicochemical Characteristics of Milk of the West African Dwarf Goats in Cross River, Nigeria
Authors: N. Ebegbulem, Victoria , E. Nwanjoku, Janet
Published: August 2021

Goat milk is a suitable alternative to human milk owing to its high beta casein content which makes it very digestible unlike cow milk. Moreover, the West African Dwarf goat is highly trypano- tolerant and thrives excellently in the humid forest zone of Nigeria. It  therefore necessitated the need to expound its potential in human nutrition in the study area. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the proximate, mineral composition and physicochemical characteristics of milk of West African Dwarf goats in Cross River State, Nigeria .Twenty five lactating West African Dwarf does within the age of 3-5 years were milked from five Local Government Areas of Cross River State (Calabar South, Calabar Municipal, Akamkpa, Biase and Odukpani) in which three goat milk samples were obtained by hand milking from each location. Data collected were presented using descriptive statistics. Completely randomized design was used to study the relationship between components of the milk samples. Proximate components of milk were crude protein (3.91-6.35%), ether extract (2.69-5.04%), Ash (1.51-1.95%), Nitrogen free extract (88.68-90.32%) and moisture content (77.72-85.56%). Values of physicochemical components were: Total Acid (0.16-0.21%), Total solid (12.30-13.30%), Density (0.90-1.95%) and pH (6.50-6.90%). Elemental components (mg/100g) were potassium (202-64-204.39), sodium (49.06-49.96), calcium (133.18-133.98), magnesium (13.96-14.07), iron (0.04-0.07), zinc (0.30-0.32) copper (1.32-1.35) and phosphorus (110.32-110.98). Proximate composition of milk samples from the different locations varied significantly (p>0.05).Similarly, the physicochemical composition from the locations also varied significantly (p<0.05) with exception to milk pH with no significant difference. Mineral elements of milk samples from different locations were not significantly different except the potassium content in milk from Odukpani which was significantly lower than the other locations. Goat milk from the study locations met the nutritional standards in terms of proximate, mineral and physicochemical composition. Results from this research provides veritable information of the nutritional content of goat milk in the study locations particularly and help encourage the incorporation of goat milk in the diet of Nigerians generally.
COVID-19: Preventive Strategies among Workers in a Tertiary Health Institution in South-east Nigeria
Authors: Elo-Ilo Jacinta Chinyere , Ajator Chioma Chetachukwu , Ezeagwuna Dorothy Amauche , Mbanuzuru Ahoma Victor , Nnamani Chioma Phyllis
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim: Healthcare workers have the highest risk of exposure to COVID-19 infection due to the nature of their occupation which daily exposes them to infectious agents/people with COVID-19. The study aimed to determine the knowledge of healthcare workers towards COVID-19 infection prevention strategies and factors that affect infection prevention against COVID-19.

Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional analytical study conducted in a tertiary health institution. One hundred and ninety-five participants were recruited consecutively into the study. Data was collected using a 13-question semi-structured self-administered questionnaire. The knowledge, perceptions and factors contributing to COVID-19 infection, prevention and control (IPC) were measured. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. The test of significance was set at p-value <0.05.

Results: The knowledge of COVID-19 Infection, Prevention and Control (IPC) was 31.8%, 63.6% of the participants were aware of IPC program at the hospital but majority (74.9%) had not received any training. There was no significant association between knowledge of COVID-19 IPC and sociodemographic characteristics. Less than half of the participants (37.4%) had a good perception of the hospital’s readiness for COVID-19 pandemic, 52.8% reported that breeching IPC rules can cause an outbreak of COVID-19 in the hospital. Lack of resources to fulfil Infection, Prevention and Control need is the single most important contributory factor to the spread of COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion: The knowledge of COVID-19 infection, prevention and control was poor in the study and the majority of the healthcare workers had not received any training regarding Infection, Prevention and Control. Therefore, there is need for the hospital management with the financial backup from the government to train healthcare workers on Infection prevention and control strategies.
Suicide Ideation and Its Risk Factors among Secondary School Adolescent in Ebonyi State, South East, Nigeria
Authors: Omaka-Amari Lois N. , Aleke Christian O. , Nwafor Jude N. , Afoke Eunice N. , Ngwakwe Patricia C. , Okeke Ifeyinwa M. , Item Okocha Yusuf , Dauda Saheed Olaide , Nwankwo Onyechi
Published: August 2021

Background: Globally, suicidal behaviour is seen as a growing public health problem, However, little is known about the suicide ideation and its risk factors among secondary school adolescent in Ebonyi State. Suicidal thought negatively impacts the quality of life, physical, and mental well-being of the students. However, research on suicide ideation among students in low- and middle-income countries are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to explore suicide ideation and its risk factors among secondary school adolescent in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was conducted to assess 399 secondary school adolescents in Ebonyi State between January to May 2021. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 399 participants. However, three hundred and ninety-four (394) were properly filled and used for the study. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire.

Results:  The findings indicated that student with suicidal ideas, 68.3% are in stressful situation, 65.7% has been absence in school for 3 days consecutively, 62.7% have been disappointed by boy/girl-friend, 59.9% feel disappointed from academic performance, 58.4% have been sad or depressed most of the time, 55.6% have been lonely, and 52.3% felt so sad in a way that the situation was unbearable. The result further shows that the major risk factor of suicidal ideation among secondary school students are cultism (71.3%), alcoholism (56.9%), poverty (61.7%), drug use disorders such as (drug addiction, drug dependence, tolerance) 228 (57.9%), and mental illness (54.8%). Other risk factors identified are mental illness 216 (54.8%), sexual harassment/assault (51.8%), unemployment (51.8%), physical assault/bullying (51.8%), and family history of suicide (50.8%).

Conclusions: The study concluded that suicide ideation among students was high and recommended among others that the Nigeria ministry of health both state and federal in collaboration with school management should develop a guideline on how to screen and manage factors associated with suicide ideation among secondary school adolescents.
The Potential Diagnostic Utility of TROP-2 & C-Kit in Thyroid Neoplasms
Authors: El-Dakrany Amal Abd El-Halim , Zamzam Yomna Abd El-Monem , Wasfy Rania Elsayed , El-Raouf Assia Mahfouz Abd
Published: August 2021

Background: Thyroid nodules are common finding, only 5% of nodules are malignant and the vast majority is non-neoplastic lesions or benign neoplasms. Thyroid cancer incidence is increasing faster than any other cancer types, thus representing one of the most common and clinically worrying malignant tumors of the endocrine system. Trophoblast antigen 2 (TROP2) is a transmembrane receptor glycoprotein encoded by the tumor-associated calcium signal transducer 2(Tacstd2) gene, which is located on chromosome 1p32. Although the biological function of TROP2 is unclear, accumulating evidence has demonstrated that its expression is elevated in various malignant tissues, whereas in human normal tissues relatively low or no TROP2 expression is observed. C-Kit is a type III receptor tyrosine kinase. C-Kit expression and signaling have been well characterized in several tumors, including gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). However, few studies have investigated c-Kit in the thyroid gland or in thyroid malignancies. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic utility of TROP-2 on a large set of neoplastic thyroid lesions & to investigate the utility of TROP-2 & c-Kit markers to distinguish between benign and malignant thyroid neoplasms on Paraffin blocks.

Methods: Immunohistochemistry for TROP2 and c-Kit was carried out on 85 different thyroid lesions (40 benign, 7 borderline and 38 malignant).

Results: Malignant thyroid lesions were found to have negative expression of c-Kit in contrast to 80% of benign thyroid neoplasms. TROP2 was strong positive in 87.5% of papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC), but there was no TROP2 expression in benign thyroid neoplasms, non-invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary like nuclear features, follicular carcinoma, anaplastic and poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma.

Conclusions: TROP2 is a good diagnostic tool for PTCs to differentiate between PTCs & other lesions with papillary like nuclear features as NIFTP, c-Kit is a good diagnostic tool for follicular adenoma & to differentiate between follicular adenoma & follicular carcinoma.
Assessment of Hepatic Steatosis and Fibrosis in Egyptian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Basiouny Eman , Lashin Faiza , Hamisa Manal , Selim Amal
Published: August 2021

Aims: To assess hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), their possible risk factors and their association with metabolic syndrome and micro or macro-albuminuria.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Outpatient Clinic of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology Unit in internal medicine department, Tanta University, Egypt in a period between September 2019 to March 2020.

Methodology: We included 200 patients had a diagnosis of T2DM according to American Diabetes Association criteria. Then patients were assessed for presence of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis using fibroscan and we used liver stiffness measurements (LSMs, as a measure of fibrosis) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP, as a measure of steatosis) and routine laboratory data were done to rule out possible risk factors.

Results: 98.5% of participants had hepatic steatosis and 53.5% of participants had hepatic fibrosis. Those patients had longer duration of DM, higher BMI, bad control of T2DM, higher lipid profile values, association with metabolic syndrome, micro and macro-albuminuria and non-significantly elevated liver enzymes.

Conclusion: Hepatic steatosis and fibrosis are highly prevalent in patients with T2DM, incidence of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis is positively correlated with longer duration of DM, higher BMI, bad control of DM, dyslipidemia, presence of metabolic syndrome, diabetic nephropathy, weakly correlated with liver enzymes. TE is an accurate and non-invasive tool to be used in screening for hepatic steatosis and fibrosis ,so we recommend screening for hepatic steatosis and fibrosis using fibroscan to help in early management and prevent its progression into liver cirrhosis.
Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of Novel Benzimidazole Derivatives as Antiulcer and H+ K+ ATPase Inhibitor
Authors: Khan R. Farhan , Farooqui Mohd. Saleemuddin
Published: August 2021

Aims: To Synthesis the novel substituted benzimidazole derivatives and screened Pharmacologically as antiulcer and H+ K+ ATPase inhibitor.

Study Design: Study design as series of substituted benzimidazole derivatives prepared by three different reaction scheme and further evaluated pharmacologically in desired activity.

Place and Duration of Study: In Patal Dhamal Wadwani College of Pharmacy Yavatmal, Maharashtra, India, between July 2014 to August 2017.

Methodology: A series of new 2-[(substituted-pyrimidin-4-yl) sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole (54a-54i) were synthesized by the condensation of O-phenylenediamine, KOH and CS2 resulting potassium 1-H-benzimidazole 2-thiolate further treated with glacial acetic acid gives 1H-benzimidazole 2- thiol (2-mercaptobenzimidazole). 4-Chloro 2 Methyl, 6-Alkylpyrimidine- 4-ol prepared by ethanimidamide and alkyl acetoacetate gives 2-Methyl, 6-Alkylpyrimidine-4-ol by chlorination using thionyl chloride 4-Chloro 2 Methyl, 6-Alkylpyrimidine- 4-ol was obtained. further reacted with sodium oxide followed by m-chloroperbenzoic finally gives 2-[(substituted-pyrimidin-4-yl) sulfinyl]-1H-benzimidazole. Structural characterization of these synthesized compounds was confirmed by FT-IR, 1HNMR, and Mass spectral data. Later synthesized derivatives evaluated for their antiulcer and H+ K+ ATPase inhibitory activity by aspirin induced method and assays of H+/K+-ATPase activity respectively.

Results: Compound 54c (74.03%), 54f (72.87%) and 54i (75.15%) shows highly significant antiulcer activity compared to standard drug and compound 54c (88.88 %), 54d (91.03 %), 54f (86.48%) and 54g (84.21%) shows highly significant antisecretory activity when compare to standard drug.

Conclusion: Our research work provokes further to work for development of different derivatives of 2-(pyrimidinyl-sulfinyl) benzimidazole which have lesser side effect and better action than few of marketed drugs.
Total Anomalous of Pulmonary Venous Connection- A Case Report
Authors: Maurya Archana , Rodge Hina Y. , Kurian Bibin , Alwadkar Sagar
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Among Cyanotic cardiac diseases, Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection is the only condition involving venous system malformation. Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection is a rare congenital anomaly in which all 4 pulmonary veins have no direct communication with the left atrium.

Background: Almost one in a hundred newborn babies worldwide is affected by congenital heart disease. TAPVC is approximately 7-9 per 100,000 live births and it accounts for about 0.7- 1.5% of all congenital heart diseases. Congenital cardiac defects are the most common congenital anomalies in live births as well as the main cause of childhood Motability and Morbidity in the developed nations.

Presentation of Case: A 5-month-old male child was admitted to ‘Sri Satya Sai Sanjeevani Hospital, Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India’ on date 1 February 2021 with complaints of excessive sweating on the head while feeding, Tachypnoea, cyanosis and Lower Respiratory Tract infection. The child was diagnosed at 2 months of age and the child was brought to Sri Satya Sai Hospital for surgical management of TAPVC.

Interventions:  The treatment of patients was started immediately after admission. The surgical repair of obstructive mixed TAPV and PDA ligation was done under general anesthesia on date 02 February 2021.

Conclusion: In this report, we mainly focus on expert surgical management and excellent nursing care helped in managing the complicated case very nicely. The patient response was positive to conservative and nursing management. The patient was discharged without postoperative complications and satisfactory with recovery.
Respiratory Myopathy in Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Safina S. Syed
Published: August 2021

The pulmonary function tests FVC, FEVl, FEVl/FVC, PEF, FEF25-75, and MVV were performed in 45 non-insulin dependent diabetics and 47 controls with RMS HELIOS 401 computerised spirometer. The FBS, PPBS, and HbAlC were estimated. The effect of levels of FBS,PPBS and HbAlC on the pulmonary function variables were analysed. The Spirometric variables values were all decreasing with increasing FBS, PPBS and HbA1c levels. This result underlines that respiratory system including the respiratory muscles are also one of the target organs of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. This study supports and adds on to the literatures suggesting respiratory myopathy in non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.
An Epidemiological Study of Vitiligoin an Urban City Hospital
Authors: Chinthaamani K. P. R.
Published: August 2021

Vitiligo commonly begins in childhood or young adulthood with peak onset between 10 to 30 years. From this study results it was found that females 83(55.3%)were more commonly affected with vitiligo than males 67(44.7%) and the most common affected age group is 31-50 (35.33%) and the most common site of onset of vitiligo was equal in upper limb and face seen in 71(47.33%) patients each, followed by lower limb sseenin50(33.33%) patients. The most common site involved in males was upper limb 32(47. 76%)and females was face 42(50.6%)were observed. The common type was common clinical type of vitiligo documented was vitiligo vulgaris, seen in 69(46%) patients. This was followed by mucosal vitiligo 36(24%), acrofacial22 (14.67%), segmental17 (11.33%) and vitiligo are ata6 (4%) and reported to be more common in B positive patients.
Wound Healing Potential of Rhodomyrtus tomentosa and its Bioactive Compounds- Rhodomyrtone
Authors: Kamarudin Evana , Halim Hasseri , Anuar Tengku Shahrul , Hussain Roslinah
Published: August 2021

Aims: The present work was aimed to study the phytochemical composition of a crude ethanolic extract of Rhodomyrtus tomentosa [SERT], and the presence of rhodomyrtone and SERT's in vitro wound healing activity.

Introduction: Rhodomyrtus tomentosa is native plant to southern and southeastern Asia, India, east to southern China, Taiwan, Philippines, and south to Malaysia. In the traditional Vietnamese, Chinese and Malaysia, all its part, including leaves, roots, buds, and fruits have been used. A need for a new source of wound healing agent is the call for the investigation of the potential of R. tomentosa as the source of health-promoting agent, specifically as a natural wound healing agent.

Methodology: SERT was screen for its phytochemicals and the detection of rhodomyrtone using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, /Quadrupole time-of-flight [LC-MS/QTOF] analysis. Cell viability, cell proliferation, and migration assay were performed to examine the SERT effect's in vitro wound healing activity on human fibroblast cells [CRL-2522].

Results: The phytochemical study showed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, tannins and steroid in the crude ethanolic extract. The LC-MS analysis of crude ethanolic extract of SERT showed presents of rhodomyrtone which is one of the major compounds in the extract. SERT exhibit proliferative and migratory rate in human fibroblast cells [CRL 2522] in dose-dependent manner, which supports wound healing process. Its bioactive compounds presented wound healing activities at 0.325 up to 2.5 µg/mL.

Conclusion: Both SERT and rhodomyrtone portrayed in vitro wound healing activities. Further studies to elucidate the mechanism of action of SERT and rhodomyrtone is recommended.
Overview on Causes and Management of Upper Extremity Ischemia- A Review
Authors: Abood Hashem Bark Awadh , Almarri Mohammad Saleh , Khoshaim Faisal Mohammed , Alsubaie Barak Abdullah , A. Al Abbad, Mohammed Ahmed , Alzhrani Sultan Abdulaziz , Alsafri Raghad Mohammed , Alharbi Hayat Mohammed , Owaydhah Hamzah Hussain , Alobaidi Rayan Hussain S. , Hakami Alanoud Awaji
Published: August 2021

Acute upper limb ischemia (AULI) occurs less often than acute lower limb ischemia, contributing for even less than 5% of all limb ischemia instances. It is known to be rare vascular emergency with serious long-term effects if not treated promptly. Timely detection and localization of the arterial occlusion are critical for effective revascularization and limb salvage. Surgical procedure, most commonly embolectomy, has become the standard of care for embolic or thrombotic AULI. Vascular repair is synonymous with morbidity and death, which can be avoided in some circumstances. Nonsurgical options such as endovascular procedures, thrombolytic agents, and anticoagulation therapy continue to advance, but their function in upper extremity ischemia remains unclear. In this Review, we discuss causes and management of acute upper extremity ischemia.  The paper concluded that longer symptoms mean greater likelihood of functional sequelae. Surgical management is the most commonly used and best treatment. It is also possible that conservative management is being underreported. The prognosis of upper extremity ischemia is related to prompt and appropriate treatment and is predictable based on initial serum LDH levels.
NIAAA 2‐question screen can predict subsequent CUD in youth
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2021

A recent study shows that even low‐risk alcohol use by adolescents is associated with subsequent cannabis use disorder (CUD). The analysis, “Adolescent alcohol use predicts cannabis use over a three year follow‐up period,” by James Linakis, M.D., professor of pediatrics and emergency medicine at Brown University, and colleagues, is based on the use of the two‐question screen from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) when young people present in the emergency department (ED). The screener is already known to work for assessing alcohol use in teens, but this new study suggests it is better to ask questions about both alcohol and cannabis use in these patients.
At HHS: SAMHSA changes, and Mark Weber retiring
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2021

Miriam Delphin‐Rittmon, M.D., former commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, was confirmed as assistant secretary for mental health and substance use at the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in June; she now leads the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Nancy Navarretta, deputy commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, will be the agency's acting commissioner until the governor appoints a permanent commissioner.
Measuring 3D Cell Culture Viability in Multiple 3D Printed Scaffolds Within a Single Miniature Electrical Impedance Tomography Sensor
Authors: Ogawa Ryoma , Hallas-Potts Amelia , Wu Hancong , Jia Jiabin , Bagnaninchi Pierre O.
Published: August 2021

The use of 3D cell culture for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications often challenges conventional biochemical and optical assays. Impedance‐based cellular assays have shown their potential to retrieve dielectric parameters pertaining to cell behavior such as viability, proliferation, and differentiation for 2D adherent cell culture. Herein, simultaneous 3D impedance imaging and viability measurements of multiple large (>2 mm) 3D cell cultures embedded in collagen gels are demonstrated. The method is facilitated by low‐resistance 3D printed scaffolds that can hold a 3D cell–gel system throughout cell culture while being transparent to impedance imaging. It is shown in silico and in vitro that frequency‐difference electrical impedance tomography (fd‐EIT) can nondestructively and in a label‐free way differentiate a variety of cell concentrations with a single miniature sensor in real time. This study paves the way toward the development of EIT imaging for the quantitative and noninvasive evaluation of tissue engineering products.
Band‐Like Charge Transport in Phytic Acid‐Doped Polyaniline Thin Films
Authors: Ballabio Marco , Zhang Tao , Chen Chen , Zhang Peng , Liao Zhongquan , Hambsch Mike , Mannsfeld Stefan C. B. , Zschech Ehrenfried , Sirringhaus Henning , Feng Xinliang , Bonn Mischa , Dong Renhao , Cánovas Enrique
Published: August 2021

We explore the charge transport properties of phytic acid (PA) doped polyaniline thin films prepared by the surfactant monolayer‐assisted interfacial synthesis (SMAIS). Structural and elemental analysis confirms the inclusion of PA in the thin films and reveals a progressive loss of crystallinity with the increase of PA doping content. Charge transport properties are interrogated by time‐resolved terahertz (THz) spectroscopy. Notably, independently of doping content and hence crystallinity, the frequency‐resolved complex conductivity spectra in the THz region can be properly described by the Drude model, demonstrating band‐like charge transport in the samples and state‐of‐the‐art charge carrier mobilities of ≈1 cm2V−1s−1. A temperature‐dependent analysis for the conductivity further supports band‐like charge transport and suggest that charge carrier mobility is primarily limited by impurity scattering. This work highlights the potential of PA doped polyaniline for organic electronics.
Bitter Flavored, Soft Composites for Wearables Designed to Reduce Risks of Choking in Infants
Authors: Cho Donghwi , Li Rui , Jeong Hyoyoung , Li Shupeng , Wu Changsheng , Tzavelis Andreas , Yoo Seonggwang , Kwak Sung Soo , Huang Yonggang , Rogers John A.
Published: August 2021

Wireless, skin‐integrated devices for continuous, clinical‐quality monitoring of vital signs have the potential to greatly improve the care of patients in neonatal and pediatric intensive‐care units. These same technologies can also be used in the home, across a broad spectrum of ages, from beginning to end of life. Although miniaturized forms of such devices minimize patient burden and improve compliance, they represent life‐threatening choking hazards for infants. A materials strategy is presented here to address this concern. Specifically, composite materials are introduced as soft encapsulating layers and gentle adhesives that release chemical compounds designed to elicit an intense bitter taste when placed in the mouth. Reflexive reactions to this sensation strongly reduce the potential for ingestion, as a safety feature. The materials systems described involve a non‐toxic bitterant (denatonium benzoate) as a dopant in an elastomeric (poly(dimethylsiloxane)) or hydrogel matrix. Experimental and computational studies of these composite materials and the kinetics of release of the bitterant define the key properties. Incorporation into various wireless skin‐integrated sensors demonstrates their utility in functional systems. This simple strategy offers valuable protective capabilities, with broad practical relevance to the welfare of children monitored with wearable devices.
Graphene Decorated Fiber for Wearable Strain Sensor with High Sensitivity at Tiny Strain
Authors: Chen Ye , Zhang Yuanyuan , Song Fei , Zhang Huiying , Zhang Qikang , Xu Jing , Wang Huaping , Ke Fuyou
Published: August 2021

It remains a challenge to achieve high sensitivity and a broad linear strain range simultaneously for wearable strain sensors. Specially, graphene‐based strain sensors always exhibit low sensitivity owing to the slippage of graphene flakes. To overcome this problem, Al3+ is used here as “mortars” for graphene flakes instead of polymers usually used in the literature, and thus a very simple and low‐cost strategy is developed to prepare a high‐performance reduced graphene oxide coated fiber strain sensor. The strain sensor shows a low detection limit (0.1% strain), high sensitivity, and a very broad linear sensing range (0–20%, R2 = 0.99, GF = 322), which is attributed to the occurrence of uniform microcracks under stretching induced by Al3+ as well as the large variation of the overlapped area between adjacent graphene flakes at small strain (<1% strain). Moreover, the good cycle stability and durability against water washing of the strain sensor are verified. The excellent properties of the wearable strain sensor ensure it successfully applied in the real‐time monitoring of human activities.
Mental health in academia: Hacks for cultivating and sustaining wellbeing
Authors: Johnson Adam P. , Lester Rebecca J.
Published: August 2021

Mental health concerns among university populations are on the rise. Faculty and students report increasing levels of depression, stress, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. These mental health crises reduce overall wellness and inhibit the educational process. We identify uncertainty, financial stress, disruptions to social networks, burnout, and the contemporary social/political climate as key triggers for mental health crises for faculty and students. Faculty are in a position to provide support to one another and their students and as such, we provide strategies that attend to these triggers and complement other forms of intervention. We do not intend these “hacks” to supplant structural change or reputable medical advice; rather, they are intended to help focus attention on the importance and magnitude of mental health concerns in academia and to offer some strategies that faculty can implement.
Nasal endoscopy, room filtration, and aerosol concentrations during live outpatient encounters: a prospective, case‐control study
Authors: Gill Amarbir S. , Kaur Kamaljeet , Shipman Paige , Sumsion Jorgen , Error Marc , Kelly Kerry , Alt Jeremiah A.
Published: August 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has highlighted safety concerns surrounding possible aerosol‐generating procedures, but comparative data on the smallest particles capable of transmitting this virus remain limited. We evaluated the effect of nasal endoscopy on aerosol concentration and the role of a high‐efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in reducing aerosol concentration.

Methods

Otolaryngology patients were prospectively enrolled in an outpatient, cross‐sectional study. Demographic information and clinic room characteristics were recorded. A scanning mobility particle sizer and GRIMM aerosol monitor measured aerosols 14.3 nm to 34 μm in diameter (i.e., particles smaller than those currently examined in the literature) during (1) nasal endoscopy (± debridement) and (2) no nasal endoscopy encounters. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student's t test were performed to compare aerosol concentrations and impact of HEPA filtration.

Results

Sixty‐two patients met inclusion criteria (25 nasal endoscopy without debridement; 18 nasal endoscopy with debridement; 19 no nasal endoscopy). There was no significant difference in age or gender across cohorts. Aerosol concentration in the nasal endoscopy cohort (± debridement) was not greater than the no nasal endoscopy cohort (p = 0.36; confidence interval [95% CI], −1.76 to 0.17 μg/m3; and p = 0.12; 95% CI, −0.11 to 2.14 μg/m3, respectively). Aerosol concentrations returned to baseline after 8.76 min without a HEPA filter versus 4.75 min with a HEPA filter (p = 0.001; 95% CI, 1.73–6.3 min).

Conclusion

Using advanced instrumentation and a comparative study design, aerosol concentration was shown to be no greater during nasal endoscopy versus no endoscopy encounters. HEPA filter utilization reduced aerosol concentrations significantly faster than no HEPA filter.
Adsorption mechanism of essence‐containing poly (butyl methacrylate) nanocapsules on cotton fabric surface
Authors: Xiao Zuobing , Bao Yutian , Wang Kai , Xu Wenwen , Niu Yunwei , Xiao Dong , Kou Xingran
Published: August 2021

The adsorption of particles on cotton affects its performance. Investigating the factors that affect particle adsorption on cotton can provide valuable insights into the adsorption process. By characterizing morphology, composition, structure, surface energy, and specific surface area, this study explores the adsorption of poly (butyl methacrylate) (PBMA) nanocapsules (NCs) on cotton via impregnation, including a preliminary study on the effect of concentration on adsorption. The results yield the following conclusions: (i) the viscosity of the PBMA emulsion increases with concentration, resulting in heightened particle adsorption on cotton and a thicker film after drying; (ii) the acidity and heat resistance of the cotton increase, owing to the formation of hydrogen bonds between the hydroxyl groups in PBMA and cotton and the increased hydrogen bonding interactions with adsorption; (iii) although the adsorption of PBMA NCs on cotton fibers causes a slight decrease in crystallinity and crystal plane spacing, the cotton retains impressive hydrophilicity, wettability, air permeability, and a porous structure. Based on these results, the study proposes a novel approach for the development of functional textiles.
Optimization of processing conditions and mechanical properties of banana fiber‐reinforced polylactic acid/high‐density polyethylene biocomposites
Authors: Rodríguez L. Joana , Álvarez‐Láinez Mónica Lucía , Orrego Carlos E.
Published: August 2021

Biocomposite materials (BMs) containing blends of synthetic polymers and biopolymers are made with the aim of enhancing the best characteristics of each material. In this work, polylactic acid (PLA) and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) with maleic anhydride‐grafted polyethylene (PE‐g‐MA) blends were reinforced with banana fiber (BF). A simplex lattice mixture design {3,3} was selected to optimize the processing conditions and mechanical properties of the BMs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze intermolecular interactions, grafting, miscibility, thermal properties and morphology. The optimal BM composition was 37.95 wt% BF and 30/32.05 wt% PLA/HDPE, which exhibited a stabilization time of 2.29 min, a tensile strength of 27.74 MPa and a ductility of 5.26%. The FTIR bands showed that the PE‐g‐MA compatibilizer interacted with the polar BF surface. The BM morphology showed ductile fracture with the absence of BF pull‐outs, consistent with the high tensile strength.
The conservation of migratory fishes in the second largest river basin of South America depends on the creation of new protected areas
Authors: Bailly Dayani , Batista‐Silva Valéria Flavia , Silva Cassemiro Fernanda A. , Lemes Priscila , da Graça Weferson Junio , de Oliveira Anielly Galego , do Couto Edivando Vitor , Delconte Ferreira José Hilário , Ré Reginaldo , Rangel Thiago Fernando , Agostinho Angelo Antonio
Published: August 2021

Freshwater ecosystems, providing valuable goods and services to humans, have been subjected to multiple human impacts, among which climate change plays a central role in threats to species. It is expected that protected areas, the cornerstone of biodiversity conservation efforts, will assume a decisive role in protecting freshwater species from the impacts of climate change.

This study assessed the effects of climate change on migratory fish of the second largest neotropical river basin, evaluating the effectiveness of protected areas in safeguarding fish species, and hence the ecological functions that they perform and the ecosystem resources that they provide. The present range of 23 migratory fish of economic interest in the Paraná–Paraguay basin was estimated and the responses to future climatic shifts projected to the middle and end of the 21st century were examined, quantifying predictive uncertainties.

Changes and losses of climatically suitable areas will trigger severe contractions in range, with the greatest impact on the most valuable species in commercial fishing, where range losses are likely to surpass 65% in the future. The main channel of the Upper Paraná River and tributaries of its left margin are projected to serve as climatic refuges for many species, and such regions are not affected by high predictive uncertainty. The results revealed that protected areas do not sufficiently protect migratory fish at present, and that they will continue to offer negligible protection in the face of climate change.

This study alerts decision makers to the potential damage to inland fishery resources from climate change and provides useful information to guide conservation strategies spatially. We advocate that the creation of new protected areas and the redesign of the existing network to encompass regions that maximize current and future occupancy of migratory fish are crucial to conserve the valuable ecological, societal, and economic benefits that they provide.
Is the protected Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) population in Gilbert Bay, Labrador, nearing a tipping point?
Authors: Morris Corey J. , Green John M.
Published: August 2021

The Gilbert Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA), Labrador, was created in 2005 to protect a resident, locally adapted population of Atlantic cod and its habitat. Twenty years of monitoring has shown a 90% decline in this bay‐cod population since the creation of the MPA.

The decline of large commercial‐sized cod in the bay was accompanied with increases in the abundance of other fish species, including rock cod (Gadus macrocephalus ogac), sculpin (Myoxocephlalus scorpius), and winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus), suggesting loss of strong top‐down community control.

These changes suggest a positive feedback mechanism leading to a fish community tipping point, which could severely impact the recovery potential of the protected Atlantic cod population in the MPA.

We suggest that managers should be including this possibility in their management decisions for the Gilbert Bay MPA.
Neuroglobin expression and function in the temporal cortex of bilirubin encephalopathy rats
Authors: Hu Jia‐Heng , Fan Ping , Zhang Li‐Rong , Chen Chun‐Yan , Xu Jin , Huang Juan , Lu Wei‐Tian , Zhu Shu‐Juan , Qiu Guo‐Ping , Xu Shi‐Ye , Ran Jian‐Hua , Gan Sheng‐Wei
Published: August 2021

Bilirubin encephalopathy (BE) is a neurological syndrome in newborns, mainly caused by neuronal injury due to excessive oxidative stress produced by unconjugated bilirubin (UCB). Neuroglobin (NGB) can protect the brain by removing oxidative stress species, but its expression and significance in BE are not clear. To address this question, the neonatal BE model was established by injecting UCB into the cerebellomedullary cistern of 7‐day‐old SD rats. Rats were divided into a sham and BE 6 hr group, BE 12 hr group, BE 24 hr group, and BE 7 d group according to UCB action times. Hematoxylin/eosin and Nissl staining, and electron microscopy were employed to observe the pathological and ultrastructural changes of nerve cells in each group. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect NGB expression sites and cell types. Western blotting and quantitative PCR served to detect NGB expression and test the mitochondrial apoptosis signal pathway. The results confirm that UCB can lead to pathological damage and ultrastructural changes in rats' temporal cortex, increasing the expression of apoptosis‐related proteins Bax, Bcl‐2, Cyt c, Caspase‐3, and neuronal NGB. UCB promotes NGB expression with an increase in action time and reach a peak at 12 hr. In summary, brain damage induced by UCB will cause an increase in NGB expression, the increasing NGB can inhibit neuron apoptosis in early BE phases. Therefore, promoting the expression of endogenous NGB, to act as a neuroprotective agent may be a potential treatment strategy for BE.
New copolyhydrazides with anthrazoline fragments in the main chain: synthesis and optical properties
Authors: Goikhman Mikhail Ya. , Valieva Irina A. , Loretsyan Nairi L. , Podeshvo Irina V. , Gofman Iosif V. , Smyslov Ruslan Yu. , Litvinova Larissa S. , Tsvigun Natalia V. , Yakimansky Alexander V.
Published: August 2021

Several new 2,8‐diphenylpyrido[3,2‐g]quinoline‐4,6‐dicarbohydrazides were synthesized and copolyhydrazides based on them were obtained. Molecular weight, thermal, stress–strain and optical properties were investigated. It was shown that all polymer films exhibit significant luminescence in the 450–650 nm region, the profile and intensity of which depended on the nature and position of substituents in the phenylene fragment.
Morpho‐functional variation and response pattern of microglia through rodent ontogeny showing infant microglia as stable and adaptive than matured
Authors: Ghosh Anirban , Ghosh Payel , Deb Ishani , Bandyopadhyay Sandip
Published: August 2021

Microglia, myelo‐monocytic lineage cells, that enter in the developing brain at early embryonic stages and integrate in CNS, are involved in almost all neuroinflammatory conditions. We studied how microglia change their responses through the development and maturation of brain in normal physiological conditions using an ex situ model to delineate their age‐specific morpho‐functional responsiveness. Rapidly isolated microglia from different age‐matched rats were characterized with Iba1+/CD11b/c+/MHCclassII+, cultured, studied for cell‐cycle/proliferative potency, ROS generation and phagocytosis, viability and morphological analysis induced with GMCSF, MCSF, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐10, and IFN‐γ. The study showed marked differences in cellular properties, stability, and viability of microglia through ontogeny with specific patterns in their studied functions which were coherent with their in situ morpho‐functional attributes. Phagocytic behavior showed a notable shift from ROS independence to dependence toward maturation. Perinatal microglia were found persistent in ex situ environment and neonatal microglia qualified as the most potent and versatile responders for morpho‐functional variations under cytokine induced conditions. The study identified that microglia from infants were the most stable, adaptive, and better responders, which can perform as an ex situ model system to study microglial biology.
Identifying metrics of success for transitional care practices in childhood cancer survivorship: A qualitative interview study of parents
Authors: Sadak Karim Thomas , Gemeda Milki , Grafelman Michelle C. , Aremu Taiwo O. , Neglia Joseph P. , Freyer David R. , Harwood Eileen , Mikal Jude
Published: August 2021

Background

Survivor‐focused care for adolescent and young adult (AYA) childhood cancer survivors (CCS) often involves their parents. Recognizing the importance of parents in the ongoing care of CCS, our study sought to identify key aspects of a successful transition for CCS from pediatric‐ to adult‐centered care from the parent perspective.

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with 26 parents of CCS who were receiving care in the long‐term follow‐up (LTFU) clinic at a single institution. We used a semi‐structured interview protocol with the parents and conducted a thematic content analysis.

Results

Using a constant comparison approach, data revealed three primary themes regarding parents’ perspectives toward ensuring a seamless transition from pediatric‐ to adult‐centered follow‐up care: (1) the transition needs to include seamless communication between all involved parties, (2) survivors need to demonstrate sufficient health care self‐efficacy in order to achieve a successful transition, and (3) the survivor‐focused care should include support for survivors’ overall well‐being, including financial and health insurance literacy.

Conclusions

For parents of AYA CCS, the optimal pediatric to adult care transition model should include mechanisms that facilitate communication between parents, CCS, and survivor‐focused providers while also supporting self‐efficacy and financial literacy as it relates to health insurance.
Patient‐targeted googling by psychological therapists: A narrative review of the literature and ethical implications
Authors: Cox Kathryn E. , Simonds Laura M. , Moulton‐Perkins Alesia
Published: August 2021

Background

“Patient‐Targeted Googling” (PTG) refers to a healthcare professional using the Internet to discover information about a patient. The present review explores PTG by psychological therapists. The review focused on the prevalence of PTG, how often consent is sought from the patient, and the motivations for and consequences of PTG.

Method

A narrative literature review of published PTG studies was undertaken. Potentially eligible studies were identified by searching PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection, and MEDLINE. Results were screened for suitability for inclusion in the sample (n = 9). All studies were appraised for quality using a structured tool developed for this review.

Results

PTG prevalence rates ranged from 20% to 98%, with rates of non‐consent ranging from 60% to 84%. Motivations for PTG included curiosity, to gather new information and to verify existing information. Consequences of PTG included enhancing the therapist's sense of safety and causing harm to the therapeutic relationship.

Discussion

Current literature on PTG is limited and focussed largely in the United States. This review revealed no published PTG studies including UK‐based psychological therapists, as well as issues in defining and operationalising PTG. Further research is needed to understand the prevalence of PTG by UK‐based psychological therapists, as well as the motivations behind, and consequences of, PTG. This evidence base will inform the development of PTG professional guidelines and training, neither of which currently exist for therapists practising in the UK. Both would be timely given the increasing move of the therapeutic frame to the online environment due to the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Porcelain laminate veneer management for a discolored central incisor with total root replacement resorption: A case report
Authors: Alessa Mohamed , Almanea Raed , Alhazzani Emad , Alsirhani Abdullah
Published: August 2021

This case highlights the significance of conducting an in‐depth clinical and radiographic examination before treating a single discolored tooth and proves the effectiveness of porcelain laminate veneers in masking intrinsic teeth discoloration.
One Step Forward in Exploration of Class II Pyruvate Aldolases Nucleophile and Electrophile Substrate Specificity
Authors: Gastaldi Cédric , Ngahan Tagne Rolande , Laurent Victor , Hélaine Virgil , Petit Jean‐Louis , Traïkia Mounir , de Berardinis Véronique , Lemaire Marielle , Guérard‐Hélaine Christine
Published: August 2021

Originally named according to their strict nucleophile specificity towards pyruvate, some pyruvate aldolases were demonstrated to be able to convert other nucleophiles. This study illustrates that the nucleophile 2‐oxopentanoate successfully reacted with various aldehydes and even ketones. Unknown aldols with a 3S configuration were then isolated, characterized, and their stereochemistries could be set as either 4R or 4S by choosing the appropriate aldolase.
Covalent Patterning of 2D MoS2
Authors: Chen Xin , Kohring Malte , Assebban M'hamed , Tywoniuk Bartłomiej , Bartlam Cian , Moses Badlyan Narine , Maultzsch Janina , Duesberg Georg S. , Weber Heiko B. , Knirsch Kathrin C. , Hirsch Andreas
Published: August 2021

The development of an efficient method to patterning 2D MoS2 into a desired topographic structure is of particular importance to bridge the way towards the ultimate device. Herein, we demonstrate a patterning strategy by combining the electron beam lithography with the surface covalent functionalization. This strategy allows us to generate delicate MoS2 ribbon patterns with a minimum feature size of 2 μm in a high throughput rate. The patterned monolayer MoS2 domain consists of a spatially well‐defined heterophase homojunction and alternately distributed surface characteristics, which holds great interest for further exploration of MoS2 based devices.
Influence of N‐Substituents on Photovoltaic Properties of Singly Bay‐Linked Dimeric Perylene Diimides
Authors: Izawa Seiichiro , Uchida Kentaro , Nakamura Mayuko , Fujimoto Keisuke , Roudin Jérémy , Lee Ji‐Hyun , Inuzuka Toshiyasu , Nakamura Takumi , Sakamoto Masami , Nakayama Yasuo , Hiramoto Masahiro , Takahashi Masaki
Published: August 2021

The influence of N‐substituents on the photovoltaic properties of singly bay‐linked perylene diimides (diPDIs) was systematically investigated to understand the aromatic‐aliphatic balance, which is beneficial for achieving high device performance in organic photovoltaic (OPV) systems. The synthesis of various N‐substituted diPDIs was successfully achieved using a newly developed one‐step procedure, resulting in sufficiently high yields. Detailed investigations of seven variants of diPDIs demonstrated that the primary alkyl substituents, particularly the 2‐ethylhexyl group, induce the self‐organized growth of thin films with high crystallinity. This is beneficial for enhancing the device performance of bulk heterojunction (BHJ) systems. The results presented herein reveal the important roles of alkyl side chains as hydrophobic solubilizing auxiliaries or primary determinants in the control of the active layer nanomorphology. This offers a valuable guideline that is essential for developing high‐performance organic semiconductor materials for future practical applications.