bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Industrial and Technological Waste Mismanagement and Its Implications for the Present and Future Geology of the Earth: A Field Study of the Ekulu River in Enugu Metropolis, Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Onuigbo E. N. , Okoro A. U. , Ezealajii I. P. , Ozulu G. U.
Published: May 2022

Aim: Field study of the Ekulu River in the coal mining and industrialized part of the Enugu Metropolis was done in order to evaluate the impacts of industrial and technological waste mismanagement on the present and future geology of the Earth.

Methodology:  The study includes field observation, sampling and description of nature and composition of the sediments from the ancient/abandoned and present/active river channels.

Result: The findings of the study shows incorporation of non- decomposable particles such as nylon, plastics, leather, chicken feather, pieces of broken bottles, electrical wire, coal chips, aluminum foil, cloth materials, metallic containers, coal tar and chippings scraped off from failed road etc as part of the present river channel sediments in an active areas such as Onyeama Mine and surroundings and Abakpa Bridge.

Conclusion: Occurrence of these debris referred to as “Technofossils” in the sediments and sedimentary rocks that is or will be preserved in these fluvial settings now and in the near future will serve as one of the evidences of human impacts on the Earth System through the use of technological inventions and industrial revolution. These anthropogenic materials in the present river channel sediments are markers which support the argument on a clear shift in geologic time from Holocene to Anthropocene, a proposed human influenced geologic epoch.
Herbal Infusions and Teas Taken Orally: What is not Taken into Account in the Phytotherapy of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Urakov A. , Urakova N. , Shchemeleva A. , Lovtsova L. , Fayzullina R. , Akhmetyanova A. , Kudashkina N. , Suleymanova D. , Galiakhmetova E. , Khasanova S. , Krylova I.
Published: May 2022

Infusions, decoctions and teas made from hot drinking water and various medicinal plants are widely used in folk medicine and pharmacy in the Russian Federation and in the countries of Southwest Asia. In this study, the methods of ethnopharmacology and pharmacy were combined to clarify the mechanism of action of traditional herbal mixtures in the phytotherapy of type 2 diabetes mellitus.  The technology of preparation of infusions, decoctions and teas from medicinal plants and the quality of water are analyzed. It is shown that the traditional assessment of the pharmacological activity of herbal mixtures was previously considered only from the point of view of the biological activity of the main chemical components, without taking into account the influence of water, its volume, as well as without taking into account acidic, osmotic (hypotonic) activity and temperature of water extracts. However, it has been shown that drinking water is also the main active ingredient of water extracts, and the quality of water and its physical-chemical properties can be important in the effect on the body of patients. In particular, attention is drawn to the fact that ingestion of 250 ml of such aqueous extracts can dilute blood plasma, reduce the concentration of all substances in it, including glucose concentration, reduce osmotic activity of the plasma and promote the removal of glucose from the body due to its "washing". Therefore, traditional herbal medicine based on ingestion of 250 ml of aqueous extracts 2-4 times a day may be accompanied by hypoglycemia and a decrease in the concentration of all other ingredients in the blood plasma not so much due to the action of biologically active substances, but also due to the action of water. The process of reducing the concentration of glucose in the blood is more intense and significant, the faster the water is absorbed into the blood and the more water is drunk. It is also obvious that some of the glucose is excreted with water from the body during urination and sweating. Nevertheless, in order to give a definitive answer to the role of herbal teas and infusions in the phytotherapy of diabetes mellitus, new and more comprehensive pharmacological studies are required in the future, taking into account the volume of water and the physico-chemical properties of water extracts.
Effects of Letrozole on Trabecular Diameter of Long Bone: Mouse Model
Authors: Khan Muhammad Haroon , Momin Nabila , Javed Sarah , Mobeen Faiqa , Mehmood Amna Shah , Khan Sana Ullah
Published: May 2022

Background: Letrozole, a commonly prescribed Neoadjuvant endocrine therapeutic drug in hormone receptor positive breast cancer females, causes osteoporosis along with several other debilitating effects. The objective of this study was to observe the changes in trabecular diameter of femur of mice after exposure to Letrozole.

Materials and Methods: This Laboratory based experimental study was carried out at Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Centre (PCSIR) Peshawar and Khyber Medical University (KMU) Peshawar from 1st of June 2018 till 30th of July 2018. Thirty-three female albino mice were divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group was given Letrozole drug at a dose of 1mg/kg/day for 28 days. Weight of these thirty-three mice was measured before and after administration of the drug. The animals were then sacrificed. Femurs were dissected and processed to find out changes in its gross morphology, weight, and trabecular diameter.

Results: The overall weight of mice, weight of femur and its trabecular diameter was greater in control Group as compared to experimental Group.

Conclusion: Use of Letrozole can cause significant reduction in trabecular diameter of long bones.
Maternal – Fetal Outcome in Cases of HELLP Syndrome at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Orugbo Voke Peter , Atoe Kenneth
Published: May 2022

Aims: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in resource-poor nations like Africa. This is even more predicated in HELLP (Haemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelets) syndrome, which is a life-threatening pregnancy complication and is usually considered to be a variant of preeclampsia. The present study therefore investigated maternal – fetal outcome in cases of HELLP syndrome at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital.

Study Design: The study is a descriptive retrospective investigation, which comprised 210 pregnancies complicated by HELLP syndrome, which were acquired from their separate medical records.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Delta state University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH),Oghara, Delta State, Nigeria over a 24-month period.

Methodology: In newborn medical records, several outcome variables were evaluated. The gestational age was calculated using obstetric characteristics such as menstrual history, early clinic checkup, and ultrasound at 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Results: The average age of the mothers in the study was 29 years old, with a 95th percentile age of 40 years old.  Preeclampsia risk was also enhanced by having more children. Preeclampsia is a condition that affects pregnant women who are more than 30 weeks pregnant. The HELLP syndrome has a significant impact on the outcome of the fetus. New stillbirth accounted for 4.6 percent of fetal outcomes, whereas early neonatal death, which occurred within the first 28 days of life, accounted for 3.4 percent of the 210 participants in the study. In addition, 2.3 percent of stillbirths were macerated, and 10.3 percent of fetuses died in the womb.

Conclusion: There is a relationship between age and the occurrence of preeclampsia, according to the HELLP syndrome classification. In each age group, a minor percentage of the subjects (6%) had Class I HELLP syndrome, while the majority (60.5%) had Class II HELLP syndrome.
Breves considerações sobre a conquista do voto feminino no Brasil
Authors: Karawejczyk Mônica
Published: May 2022

A cidadania engloba muitos fatores, entre eles, a cidadania política, ou seja, o direito de participar da vida política do seu país. No Ocidente, esta foi uma conquista recente. O voto universal, por exemplo, só foi instituído, de um modo geral, no início do século XX. No Brasil, veio com a Primeira República, mas ainda não contemplava as mulheres, que só conquistaram o direito a participar das eleições em 1932, mais de quarenta anos depois. O objetivo deste artigo é expor uma parte desta história - a da conquista do sufrágio pelas mulheres no Brasil.
A sociedade em rede
Authors: Santiago Chaves Daniel
Published: May 2022

CASTELLS, Manuel. A sociedade em rede – a era da informação: economia, sociedade e cultura, volume I. Trad. Roneide Venâncio Majer e Jussara Simões. São Paulo: Paz e Terra, 1999.
A Review of In Situ Observations of Deformation‐Induced β ↔ α″ Martensite Transformations in Metastable β Ti Alloys
Authors: Niessen Frank , Pereloma Elena
Published: May 2022

This review summarizes the current knowledge on the α″ martensite transformation in metastable β Ti alloys under different stress state conditions gained using various in situ techniques that range from the meso‐ to the nanoscale. Compared to ex situ observations, in situ observation can be conducted on a single region while changing external stimuli, and are therefore capable of elucidating the interim microstructural evolution. The strengths and shortcomings of different techniques to give insight into the martensitic transformation are identified. Both the formation of α″ martensite and its reversion on load removal are addressed. The phenomena of α″ martensite formation including preferential nucleation sites, its growth, interactions, and variant selection are described. The review also discusses the details of the macro‐ and micro‐level mechanical behavior caused by the phase transformation and highlights the research questions for further investigation.
Detection Range Enhancement of Stretchable Ultrasensitive Crack‐Based Strain Sensor with Ordered Ag Nanowire Micromeshes for Human Epidermis Monitoring
Authors: Xu Jing , Liu Jiaxin , Sun Bowen , Guo Yihan , Xu Ruixue , Han Xu , Hong Wang , Xu Yimeng , Zhu He , Sun Xin , Fu Zhiwei , Xiong Jiaqing , Tao Jifang , Qian Kai
Published: May 2022

The muscle contractions in human epidermis carry abundant information for medical diagnostics and health monitoring. Traditional crack‐based strain sensors possess high mechanosensitivity, but have limited stretchability for human epidermis monitoring. Herein, by coupling the complementary effects of two parallel connected cracked gold (Au) film electrodes and an engineered ordered layer of Ag nanowire micromeshes (Ag NMs), a strain sensor with enhanced extensibility as well as high sensitivity is provided. The Au and Ag NMs sensory layers separated by poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) matrix can be equal to two resistors in parallel, and the Ag NMs would provide stable alternative current pathways to ensure the efficient electronic transport even at high strains when Au layer totally ruptures. The resultant sensor possesses wide detection range of up to ≈22%, great sensitivity (a gauge factor of 2658.9 within 16% strain, and 11026.7 with strain of 16–20%), quick response and relaxation time (≈180 ms/≈200 ms), and excellent durability (≈1000 stretching–releasing cycles). Various human epidermal signals can be recognized by the sensor, which demonstrate great potential applications in wearable healthcare monitors, electronic skins, and intelligent devices.
Self‐Intercalation Tunable Interlayer Exchange Coupling in a Synthetic van der Waals Antiferromagnet
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqian , Liu Wenqing , Niu Wei , Lu Qiangsheng , Wang Wei , Sarikhani Ali , Wu Xiaohua , Zhu Chunhui , Sun Jiabao , Vaninger Mitchel , Miceli Paul. F. , Li Jianqi , Singh David J. , Hor Yew San , Zhao Yue , Liu Chang , He Liang , Zhang Rong , Bian Guang , Yu Dapeng , Xu Yongbing
Published: May 2022

One of the most promising avenues in 2D materials research is the synthesis of antiferromagnets employing 2D van der Waals (vdW) magnets. However, it has proven challenging, due in part to the complicated fabrication process and undesired adsorbates as well as the significantly deteriorated ferromagnetism at atomic layers. Here, the engineering of the antiferromagnetic (AFM) interlayer exchange coupling between atomically thin yet ferromagnetic CrTe2 layers in an ultra‐high vacuum‐free 2D magnetic crystal, Cr5Te8 is reported. By self‐introducing interstitial Cr atoms in the vdW gaps, the emergent AFM ordering and the resultant giant magnetoresistance effect are induced. A large negative magnetoresistance (10%) with a plateau‐like feature is revealed, which is consistent with the AFM interlayer coupling between the adjacent CrTe2 main layers in a temperature window of 30 K below the Néel temperature. Notably, the AFM state has a relatively weak interlayer exchange coupling, allowing a switching between the interlayer AFM and ferromagnetic states at moderate magnetic fields. This work represents a new route to engineering low‐power devices that underpin the emerging spintronic technologies, and an ideal laboratory to study 2D magnetism.
The Electron Transport Regulation in Carbon Dots/In2O3 Electrocatalyst Enable 100% Selectivity for Oxygen Reduction to Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Wu Jie , Han Yidong , Bai Yuchen , Wang Xiting , Zhou Yunjie , Zhu Wenxiang , He Tiwei , Wang Yingming , Huang Hui , Liu Yang , Kang Zhenhui
Published: May 2022

Direct electrosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via two‐electron pathway oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR) is crucially essential for a sustainable green economy. However, catalysts inevitably undergo four‐electron pathway oxygen reduction reaction (4e− ORR), resulting in low selectivity and economic benefits. The current challenge is to provide a feasible design strategy for obtaining satisfactory 2e− ORR catalysts with high selectivity. In this work, carbon dots (CDs) act as a cocatalyst to regulate the electron transport kinetics of In2O3/CDs, and the influence of CDs on the ORR pathways of In2O3/CDs is also studied. The electron transfer kinetics on In2O3/CDs composites are studied and analyzed using the transient photo‐induced voltage (TPV) technology. Combining the TPV results and kinetics analysis, it is shown that the electron transport on the In2O3 interface is obviously weakened after the addition of CDs, resulting in a high H2O2 selectivity. It is also demonstrated that CDs can effectively enhance the selectivity of H2O2, and the H2O2 selectivity of In2O3/CDs–10 is in close proximity to 100%, which is much higher than that of pure In2O3 (72%). This work will provide a new understanding and insight into addressing the challenge of low H2O2 selectivity for 2e− ORR catalysts.
Textured and Rigid Capillary Materials for Passive Energy‐Conversion Devices
Authors: Alberghini Matteo , Morciano Matteo , Giardino Matteo , Perrucci Francesco , Scaltrito Luciano , Janner Davide , Chiavazzo Eliodoro , Fasano Matteo , Asinari Pietro
Published: May 2022

Passive energy‐conversion devices based on water uptake and evaporation offer a robust and cost‐effective alternative in a wide variety of applications. This work introduces a new research avenue in the design of passive devices by replacing traditional porous materials with rigid capillary layers engraved with optimized V‐shaped grooves. The concept is tested using aluminum sheets, which are machined by femtosecond laser and covered by silica or functionalized by oxygen plasma to achieve stable long‐term capillary properties. The durability of the proposed material is experimentally evaluated when functioning with aqueous salt concentrations: both the coated and functionalized specimens exhibit stable wettability after being immersed in saltwater for all the duration of the experiments (≈250 h in this work). The proposed new class of materials is envisaged for use in passive solar or thermal energy‐conversion devices. As a case study, a time‐discretized capillary model is coupled with a validated lumped‐parameters heat and mass transfer model, aiming to estimate the maximum size and productivity of a passive solar distiller employing porous materials of known thermal and capillary properties. This study paves the way to the use of a new class of rigid, highly thermally conductive materials that can significantly improve the performance of passive devices by simplifying the assembly of multistage setups, thus helping to extend their use to real‐scale applications.
Gelatinized PLCL Electrospun Membrane for the Prevention of Postoperative Abdominal Adhesion Through Fibrinolysis Activation
Authors: Gao Rui , Kong Pengxu , Yang Chunfang , Liu Xiang , Wang Jingrong , Ouyang Wenbin , Huang Pingsheng , Zhang Chuangnian , Feng Zujian , Wang Weiwei
Published: May 2022

Abdominal adhesion is a common complication after surgery, which causes pain to patient and increases the risks of reoperation. Electrospinning polyester membrane serving as a physical barrier is used for preventing abdominal adhesion; however, the efficacy is limited due to the lacking of bioactivity necessary for antiadhesion. Here, hydrophobic poly(l‐lactide‐co‐caprolactone) (PLCL) electrospinning membranes are hydrophilized with photo‐crosslinked methacrylic anhydride gelatin (GelMA) hydrogel for postoperative abdominal adhesion prevention. The composite membranes show fibrous network architecture, good cytocompatibility, and hydrophilicity than commercial poly(d,l‐lactide acid) (PDLLA) film. Importantly, the composite membrane provides superior antiadhesion effect over PLCL membrane alone or commercial PDLLA film, against abdominal wall–cecum adhesion models in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. The underlying mechanism is that PLCL/GelMA membrane successfully promotes the secretion of matrix metalloproteinases 9 (MMP‐9) that can reduce the collagen deposition in extracellular matrix (ECM). Furthermore, the composite membrane significantly upregulates the expression of tissue‐type plasminogen activator (t‐PA) and downregulates the production of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), leading to the activation of fibrinolytic system, which inhibits the formation of adhesive tissues. Collectively, gelatinized PLCL electrospun membrane is a promising bioactive barrier for preventing postsurgery abdominal adhesions.
Tailoring Accidental Double Bound States in the Continuum in All‐Dielectric Metasurfaces
Authors: Abujetas Diego R. , Olmos‐Trigo Jorge , Sánchez‐Gil José A.
Published: May 2022

Bound states in the continuum (BICs) have been thoroughly investigated due to their formally divergent Q‐factor, especially those emerging in all‐dielectric, nanostructured metasurfaces from symmetry protection at the Γ point (in‐plane wavevector k|| = 0). Less attention has been paid to accidental BICs that may appear at any other in the band structure of supported modes, being in turn difficult to predict. Here, a coupled electric/magnetic dipole model is used to determine analytical conditions for the emergence of accidental BICs, valid for any planar array of meta‐atoms that can be described by dipolar resonances, which is the case of many nanostructures in the optical domain. This is explored for all‐dielectric nanospheres through explicit analytical conditions that allow in turn to predict accidental BIC positions in the parameter space (ω, k||). Finally, such conditions are exploited to determine not only single, but also double (for both linear polarizations) accidental BICs occurring at the same position in the dispersion relation ω − k|| for realistic semiconductor nanodisk meta‐atoms. This might pave the way to a variety of BIC‐enhanced light–matter interaction phenomena at the nanoscale such as lasing or nonlinear conversion, that benefit from emerging at wavevectors away from the Γ point (off‐normal incidence) overlapping for both linear polarizations.
Resonant Scattering in Proximity‐Coupled Graphene/Superconducting Mo2C Heterostructures
Authors: Hao Meng , Xu Chuan , Wang Cheng , Liu Zhen , Sun Su , Liu Zhibo , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Ren Wencai , Kang Ning
Published: May 2022

The realization of high‐quality heterostructures or hybrids of graphene and superconductor is crucial for exploring various novel quantum phenomena and devices engineering. Here, the electronic transport on directly grown high‐quality graphene/Mo2C vertical heterostructures with clean and sharp interface is comprehensively investigated. Owing to the strong interface coupling, the graphene layer feels an effective confinement potential well imposed by two‐dimensional (2D) Mo2C crystal. Employing cross junction device geometry, a series of resonance‐like magnetoresistance peaks are observed at low temperatures. The temperature and gate voltage dependences of the observed resonance peaks give evidence for geometric resonance of electron cyclotron orbits with the formed potential well. Moreover, it is found that both the amplitude of resonance peaks and conductance fluctuation exhibit different temperature‐dependent behaviors below the superconducting transition temperature of 2D Mo2C, indicating the correlation of quantum fluctuations and superconductivity. This study offers a promising route toward integrating graphene with 2D superconducting materials, and establishes a new way to investigate the interplay of massless Dirac fermion and superconductivity based on graphene/2D superconductor vertical heterostructures.
Comment on “Multiphase, Multiscale Chemomechanics at Extreme Low Temperatures: Battery Electrodes for Operation in a Wide Temperature Range”
Authors: Jin Congrui
Published: May 2022

In 2021, Li et al. published a study to elucidate the multiscale and multiphase complexities in lithium‐ion batteries after exposure to extreme low temperatures. This comment aims to 1) emphasize the significance of this study in the context of space exploration and 2) point out a possible explanation for the observed correlation between the low‐temperature‐induced cracking and the intrinsic porosity.
Environmental Impact Assessment of Na3V2(PO4)3 Cathode Production for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Rey Irene , Iturrondobeitia Maider , Akizu-Gardoki Ortzi , Minguez Rikardo , Lizundia Erlantz
Published: May 2022

Sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs) are key enablers of sustainable energy storage. NIBs use Earth‐abundant materials and are technologically viable to replace lithium‐ion batteries in the medium term. Na3V2(PO4)3, as a popular cathode for NIBs, requires further improvements to boost its electrochemical performance, particularly regarding the rate capability and operational lifetime. These strategies involve the incorporation of carbonaceous materials, heteroatom doping, morphology modification, or biopolymer incorporation. Considering the circular economy actions to foster environmentally sustainable battery industries, there is an urgent need to disclose the environmental impacts of battery production. A cradle‐to‐gate life cycle assessment methodology is used to quantify, analyze, and compare the environmental impacts of ten representative state‐of‐the‐art Na3V2(PO4)3 cathodes. Impacts are disclosed for 18 indicators normalized to 1 kg of cathode considering laboratory‐scale approaches. Global warming potential values of 423.9–1380.0 kg CO2‐equiv. kgcathode
−1 and 539.8–1622.1 kg CO2‐equiv. kWhcathode
−1 are obtained considering Na3V2(PO4)3/Na half‐cell configuration. Simple carbon additives mixed with NVP provide a good CO2 footprint‐to‐storage capacity balance, although the sacrificed capacity retention hinders reuse strategies. A sensitivity analysis demonstrates a 16.9–38.0% reduction transitioning from fossil‐based to renewable‐based energy mix. Herein, it is aimed to support battery developers and assist future advances in the development of sustainable cathodes applied into beyond‐Li‐ion technologies.
Experimental investigation and modeling on the dissociation conditions of methane hydrate in clayey silt cores
Authors: Yu Changhong , Sun Baojiang , Yang Tangyang , Wang Zhiyuan , Gao Yonghai , Chen Litao
Published: May 2022

As the majority of global natural gas hydrate reserve, the dissociation conditions of hydrate in clayey silts are of great significance for its efficient production. In this work, the dissociation conditions of methane hydrate in clayey silt cores were experimentally measured by step‐heating method at the temperature range of 280.76–289.55 K and pressure range of 8.11–15.03 MPa, respectively. Various cores including quartz powder, montmorillonite, and South China Sea sediments at the water content range of 20%–33% were used for investigation. The results showed that the dissociation temperatures of methane hydrate in clayey silt cores depressed compared to bulk hydrate. The grain size, salinity, and lithology of clayey silt cores significantly affect the dissociation conditions of hydrate. In comparison to grain size, salinity, and lithology had a more significant influence on the equilibrium temperature depression. The dissociation temperature depression of methane hydrate was considered as a consequence of the water activity depression which is caused by the effect of capillary, salt, or clay. A water activity meter was used to measure the water activity in clayey silt cores. The influence of salt component and mineral characteristics on the water activity was investigated. By combining the measured water activity data with the Chen‐Guo model, a novel water activity measurement (WAM) method for the hydrate dissociation conditions prediction was proposed. With the maximum deviation less than 12%, the predicted results are in good agreement with the experimental data. It demonstrated that the WAM method could effectively predict the dissociation conditions of methane hydrate in clayey silts with convenience and accuracy.
Chitosan coated alginate beads as probiotic delivery system for New Zealand black footed abalone (Haliotis iris)
Authors: Masoomi Dezfooli Seyedehsara , Bonnot Chloe , Gutierrez‐Maddox Noemi , Alfaro Andrea C. , Seyfoddin Ali
Published: May 2022

The potential benefits of probiotics for growth of black‐footed abalone (Haliotis iris) have been highlighted in previous studies. However, traditional methods of probiotic administration in aquaculture are inefficient due to environmental contamination and loss of bacterial viability. This study investigates a new delivery system for delivery of probiotics to H. iris. An extrusion technique coupled with ionotropic gelation was utilized to produce chitosan coated alginate beads (CCALG). Concentration of alginate, chitosan, and coating time were optimized to obtain beads with a desired morphology, stability, sinking time, and release profile. The results showed that increasing alginate concentration up to 1.5% w/w can improve the morphological characteristics of the beads while reducing the sinking time in seawater. Chitosan coating improved the stability of beads and reduced the release of the encapsulated probiotics in seawater. A higher probiotic load was found in the digestive tract of animals fed with CCALG beads ( compared to the control group (. High palatability and stability of CCALG beads in seawater combined with controlled release of viable probiotics show that encapsulation of probiotics in CCALG beads is an efficient method for delivery of probiotics in aquaculture.
Self‐healing and biodegradable copolyesters synthesized from 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid applied as human skin
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqin , Wang Jinggang , Dong Yunxiao , Wang Qianfeng , Zhu Jin
Published: May 2022

The new self‐healing and biodegradable copolyesters, poly(ethylene‐co‐diethylene glycol adipate‐co‐furanoate) (PEAF), were synthesized from 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid, dimethyl adipate, diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol by transesterification and polycondensation. Their number average molecular weight (Mn) varied from 49,400 g/mol to 71,500 g/mol while the polydispersity index ranged from 1.47 to 1.97. The study showed that by adjusting the proportion of adipate segments from 25 mol% to 65 mol%, the tensile modulus was found to be ranging from 4.95 to 0.29 MPa at room temperature, which was close to or even lower than the modulus of human skin. The excellent biodegradability of PEAFs was certified by the weight loss of 34.5% to 80.9% during enzymatic degradation. Finally, self‐healing properties were also discovered in PEAFs and the fastest self‐healing rate observed was 23.1 μm/h for PEAF‐65 at 37 °C. Due to these outstanding properties, PEAFs absolutely possess the potential to be used as human soft tissues, electronic skin, human‐machine interface and so on.
Constructing PA6/PS composite foam with porous and hybrid isolation structure to synergistically control absorption and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness
Authors: Wu Bozhen , Zhu Kaiqi , Yang Yuhao , Wen Xinghan , Liu Renrong , Zhu Honghao , Yang Jintao
Published: May 2022

Isolation structure has been proven to be an effective method for constructing electromagnetic shielding composites, achieving high electrical conductivity with shallow filler content and high‐efficiency electromagnetic shielding. However, there are still many challenges in further optimizing the design and improving absorption. This article designed a hybrid isolation structure using nylon magnetic microspheres and polystyrene (PS). First, we prepared PA magnetic microspheres (Ni@PA6M) with Ni nanoparticles uniformly dispersed by the reaction induced phase separation (RIPS) method, then mixed with MWCNT and PS at high speed and formed by hot pressing. Under the optimized ratio, the hybrid structure has more interfaces and a more complete conductive network. Simultaneously, the magnetic microspheres can promote the absorption of electromagnetic waves, thereby improving the electromagnetic shielding performance of the material. When the MWCNT content is 7 wt%, Ni@PA6M:PS = 7:3, the total shielding effectiveness (EMI SET) and reflection coefficient (R) of the composite reached 28.6 dB and 0.77, respectively, while the EMI SET and R of the composite constructed with pure nylon microspheres and PS are 26.1 dB and 0.74, respectively. Further, using supercritical CO2 foaming technology to foam the PS phase in the composite to form many cells can improve the impedance matching and absorption of electromagnetic waves. The results show that introducing the cell structure reduces the reflection coefficient (R) from 0.77 to 0.69, and the EMI SET drops to a certain extent. Introducing the hybrid isolation and porous structure we designed provides a new idea for creating electromagnetic shielding materials for isolation structures.
The effect of graphene‐based nanofillers on the structure, thermal, and mechanical properties of poly(vinyl alcohol)
Authors: Rahbarshendi Faezeh , Baybordiani Ayda , Asgharzadeh Hamed , Badr Milad , Hassannezhad Kosar
Published: May 2022

PVA matrix composite films reinforced with graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanoplatelets are prepared by water‐solution processing. The structure and properties of the composites are investigated by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The results indicate a 22% improvement in the storage modulus and a 12°C increase in the glass transition temperature by the addition of only 0.5 wt% rGO into the PVA. The enhancement of the mechanical and thermal properties of the composite films is attributed to the hydrogen bond barrier and molecule movement restriction effects. The higher amount of the hydrogen bonds in the PVA/rGO composite compared to the PVA/GO sample cause its higher thermal stability and mechanical performance.
Optimized tracking control using reinforcement learning strategy for a class of nonlinear systems
Authors: Yang Xue , Li Bin
Published: May 2022

This paper is to develop a simplified optimized tracking control using reinforcement learning (RL) strategy for a class of nonlinear systems. Since the nonlinear control gain function is considered in the system modeling, it is challenging to extend the existing RL‐based optimal methods to the tracking control. The main reasons are that these methods' algorithm are very complex; meanwhile, they also require to meet some strict conditions. Different with these exiting RL‐based optimal methods that derive the actor and critic training laws from the square of Bellman residual error, which is a complex function consisting of multiple nonlinear terms, the proposed optimized scheme derives the two RL training laws from negative gradient of a simple positive function, so that the algorithm can be significantly simplified. Moreover, the actor and critic in RL are constructed by employing neural network (NN) to approximate the solution of Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) equation. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed method is demonstrated in accordance with both Lyapunov stability theory and simulation example.
Teaching nonvocal children with autism to request for missing items
Authors: Domanska Lidia , Wójcik Marta , Eikeseth Svein
Published: May 2022

This systematic replication was designed to teach nonvocal children with autism to mand for missing items using an Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) system. Consistent with Rodriguez et al. (2017) and Wójcik et al. (2020), we used the interrupted chain procedure with EO‐present and EO‐absent trials. Consistent with Wójcik et al., 2020, we used sufficient exemplar training and activity schedules to establish manding for missing items. Participants were three children with autism, and the design was a nonconcurrent multiple‐baseline design across participants. Following training, all participants requested the missing items during EO‐present trials correctly and refrained from making requests during EO‐absent trials, suggesting that requesting using the AAC system was established as a verbal operant controlled by the appropriate EO, hence, was established as a mand. Correct requesting behavior transferred to new tasks, across skill domains, across people, to new settings, and across time.
PAF‐induced inflammatory and immuno‐allergic ophthalmic diseases and their mitigation with PAF receptor antagonists: Cell and nuclear effects
Authors: Sharif Najam A.
Published: May 2022

Ocular allergies are becoming more prevalent as more airborne pollutants, irritants and microbes pervade our environment. Inflammatory and allergic mediators released by dendritic and mast cells within the conjunctiva cause allergic conjunctivitis (AC), a prevalent ocular surface disorder that affects >40% of the world's human population on a seasonal or perennial basis. Even though histamine is a major culprit, platelet‐activating factor (PAF) also contributes to AC, acting either directly or synergistically with histamine and other mediators. PAF receptor‐meditated inflammatory reactions, via cell‐membrane‐bound and nuclear‐membrane‐bound and nuclear PAF receptors, are also implicated in the etiology of other eye diseases such as uveitis, diabetic retinopathy, corneal and choroidal neovascularization, and age‐related macular degeneration which cause serious visual impairment and can lead to blindness. This review highlights the various deleterious elements implicated in the pathological aspects of ocular allergic reactions and inflammation and provides concepts and treatment options to mitigate these eye disorders with a special focus on PAF and PAF receptor antagonists.
UHPLC–MS/MS method for the determination of azithromycin in human plasma of pediatric patients
Authors: Cai Ningfang , Wu Xiuping , Lin Jiancheng , Zou Jialiang , Yi Jin Ling , Luo Xi
Published: May 2022

The presence of azithromycin in the human plasma of pediatric patients was determined with a UHPLC‐MS/MS assay. Sample preparation was done by protein precipitation, and the separation was achieved on a C18 column by the gradient mixture of the mobile phase A (0.1% acetic acid and 3 mM ammonium acetate in water) and the mobile phase B (0.1% acetic acid and 3 mM ammonium acetate in the solution of acetonitrile, methanol, and water, 47.5/47.5/5, V/V/V). The multiple reaction monitoring mode was adopted to monitor the precursor‐to‐product ion transitions of m/z 749.6 → m/z 591.5 for azithromycin and m/z 753.6 → m/z 595.5 for azithromycin‐13C‐d3 (the internal standard) at the positive ionization mode. The calibration curve ranged from 0.5 to 500.0 ng·mL−1, and the correlation coefficient was greater than 0.99. The intra‐ and inter‐batch precision was less than 13.7%. Accuracy determined at four concentrations ranged from 99.5 to 110.8%. The extraction recoveries were more than 95%, and the matrix effects were 98–100%. The stability under various conditions was acceptable with the accuracy deviation within 9.2%. In conclusion, our method was simple, sensitive, and reliable for quantifying azithromycin in plasma among pediatric patients.
Modulation of astrocyte activity and improvement of oxidative stress through blockage of NO/NMDAR pathway improve posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)‐like behavior induced by social isolation stress
Authors: Li Hua , Tofigh Arash Mohammadi , Amirfakhraei Azita , Chen Xuan , Tajik Michael , Xu Dongwei , Motevalli Saeid
Published: May 2022

Background

It has been well documented that social isolation stress (SIS) can induce posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)‐like behavior in rodents, however, the underlying mechanism is remained misunderstood. In the current study, we aimed to elucidate the role of NO/NMDAR pathway in PTSD‐like behavior through modulating of astrocyte activity and improvement of oxidative stress.

Methods

Male NMRI mice were used to evaluate the memory function by using Morris water maze (MWM) and fear memory extinction by using freezing response. We used MK‐801 (NMDAR‐antagonist), L‐NNA (NOS‐inhibitor), NMDA (NMDAR‐agonist), and L‐arginine (NO‐agent) to find a proper treatment. Also, immunohistochemistry, RT‐PCR, and oxidative stress assays were used to evaluate the levels of astrocytes and oxidative stress. We used five mice in each experimental task.

Results

Our results revealed that SIS could induce learning and memory dysfunction as well as impairment of fear memory extinction in MWM and freezing response tests, respectively. Also, we observed that combined treatment including blockage of NOS (by L‐NNA, 0.5 mg/kg) and NMDAR (by MK‐801, 0.001 mg/kg) at subeffective doses could result in improvement of both memory and fear memory. In addition, we observed that SIS significantly increases the GFAP expression and astrocyte activity, which results in significant imbalance in oxidative stress. Coadministration of MK‐801 and L‐NNA at subeffective doses not only decreases the expression of GFAP, but also regulates the oxidative stress imbalance

Conclusion

Based on these results, it could be hypothesized that blockage of NO/NMDAR pathway might be a novel treatment for PTSD‐like behavior in animals by inhibiting the astrocyte and regulating oxidative stress level.
Splenomegaly in predicting the survival of patients with advanced primary liver cancer treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Xiao Lu‐Shan , Hu Cheng‐Yi , Cui Hao , Li Rui‐Ning , Hong Chang , Li Qi‐Mei , Huang Chao‐Yi , Dong Zhong‐Yi , Zhu Hong‐Bo , Liu Li
Published: May 2022

Background & aims

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) play an increasingly important role in the treatment of primary liver cancer (PLC). Some patients with PLC experience symptoms of splenomegaly. Splenomegaly may affect the efficacy of ICIs due to an imbalance of the immune microenvironment. Currently, there is a lack of evidence on the relationship between splenomegaly and prognosis in patients with PLC treated with ICIs. This study analyzed the relationship between splenomegaly and prognosis in patients with PLC treated with ICIs.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study of 161 patients with PLC treated with ICIs, splenomegaly was diagnosed using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging and the impact of splenomegaly on patient survival was analyzed.

Results

Through univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, we determined that splenomegaly was associated with shortened overall survival (p = 0.002) and progression‐free survival (p = 0.013) in patients with PLC treated with ICIs. Kaplan–Meier analysis further validated our results. The overall survival and progression‐free survival of patients with splenomegaly were significantly shorter than those of patients without splenomegaly (p < 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusions

We concluded that splenomegaly was a predictor of prognosis in patients with PLC treated with ICIs. This is the first study to report this important finding.
Rare case of nasal cavity chondrosarcoma presenting only with unilateral decreased vision
Authors: Kos Eva , Miletić Daliborka , Kuzmanović Elabjer Biljana , Bušić Mladen , Lorencin Mia , Jurlina Martin
Published: May 2022

Chondrosarcomas comprise a heterogeneous group of malignant lesions characterized by production of cartilage matrix. Sinonasal involvement is extremely rare, with nasal congestion and obstruction being the leading symptoms. We present a rare case of large chondrosarcoma of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, primarily presenting with ocular symptoms.
Metal‐Organic‐Framework‐Based Electrochemical Nanosensor for Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Hesari Mahdi , Jia Rui , Mirkin Michael V.
Published: May 2022

Electrochemical applications of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are of considerable current interest. Due to the large surface area exposed to solution, MOFs are potentially useful electrode materials for sensing inner‐sphere analytes, such as reactive oxygen species. Herein, we electrodeposited copper benzene tricarboxylate MOF (HKUST‐1) into the cavity of an open carbon nanopipette (CNP) to produce a CNP‐MOF nanoelectrode. Unlike electronically conductive metal or carbon electrodes, the electrochemical response of CNP–MOFs relies on oxidation/reduction of Cu(I)/Cu(II) nodes in the porous nanostructure. Nevertheless, sigmoidal steady‐state voltammograms with a well‐defined plateau current have been recorded for simple redox mediators, for example, ferrocenemethanol. A linear calibration curve obtained for the hydrogen peroxide reduction suggests that CNP–MOFs can potentially be useful as nanosensors for peroxide.
Nickel and Copper Catalyzed ipso‐Phosphonodifluoromethylation of Arylboronic Acids with BrCF2P(O)(OEt)2 for the Synthesis of Phosphonodifluoromethylarenes
Authors: Knieb Alexander , Krishnamurti Vinayak , Ispizua‐Rodriguez Xanath , Surya Prakash G. K.
Published: May 2022

A convenient method for the direct ipso‐phosphonodifluoromethylation of arylboronic acids via nickel‐copper co‐catalysis is disclosed. This work, which utilizes inexpensive first row transition metals, represents a facile alternative to the traditional palladium catalyzed approach. The method utilizes inexpensive commodity chemicals and substrates while tolerating a variety of biologically relevant functional groups. Structurally diverse phosphonodifluoromethylarenes are furnished in good yields under short reaction times. Control experiments to probe possible reaction pathways are also included.
Cytopathology of solid pancreatic neoplasms: An algorithmic approach to diagnosis
Authors: Wang Qun , Reid Michelle D.
Published: May 2022

The classification and management of solid pancreatic neoplasms has expanded significantly in recent years because of advances in immunohistochemical markers, molecular diagnostics, and therapeutics. Solid pancreatic masses are subdivided into 1) ill‐defined, scirrhous, and stroma‐rich (ductal adenocarcinoma) and 2) well circumscribed, cellular, and stroma‐poor (including neuroendocrine neoplasms, acinar cell carcinoma, pancreatoblastoma, and solid‐pseudopapillary neoplasm). Definitive diagnosis, particularly of stroma‐poor, circumscribed tumors, requires the incorporation of radiologic and cytologic findings, along with the judicious use of (broad, but limited) immunohistochemical panels (pancytokeratin and neuroendocrine [synaptophysin], acinar [trypsin], and solid‐pseudopapillary neoplasm [β‐catenin] markers), along with unstained slides. Depending on the initial results, immunohistochemical panels should be expanded to include more confirmatory (acinar and neuroendocrine) markers. This ensures that adequate material is available for definitive diagnosis/subclassification and, in some cases, grading, and/or molecular studies, particularly of grade 3 neuroendocrine neoplasms and mixed‐lineage tumors. The objective of this review is to expand the understanding of the cytomorphology of solid pancreatic neoplasms using an integrated, multidisciplinary approach in their diagnosis. Knowledge and understanding of recent updates in the classification of solid pancreatic neoplasms ensures that cytopathologists appropriately triage specimens, judiciously use and interpret ancillary studies, and incorporate these results in reporting.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Potential Energetic Propellant Plasticizer 3‐Nitratoethyl‐N‐nitramino‐5‐nitratomethyl Isoxazole
Authors: Cabrera Gabrielle E. , Reid Tristen A. , Johnson Eric C. , Orlicki Joshua A. , Burns Noah Z. , Sabatini Jesse J.
Published: May 2022

The synthesis of 3‐(nitratoethyl‐N‐nitramino)‐5‐(nitratomethyl) isoxazole (C6H7N5O9, 1) is presented, and its energetic properties were ascertained and analyzed for energetic applications potential. 1 was found to be a solid without melting behavior, begins to decompose at 140 °C, and has a thermal onset decomposition temperature of 171.5 °C. 1 was synthesized in 5 steps from glyoxylic acid, and was found to exhibit acceptable sensitivities to impact, friction, and electrostatic discharge. The presence of the nitratoethyl nitramino (NENA) moiety, coupled with the high density (1.71 g cm−3) and superior calculated specific impulse (247.6 s) over the commonly employed gun propellant n‐butyl NENA (density=1.22 g cm−3, specific impulse=221 s), makes 1 a potential energetic plasticizer for next generation gun and rocket propellants. In addition, a modified procedure for the synthesis of dibromoformaldoxime (DBFO) was developed to provide this material in respectable yields on one mole scale. The safety considerations of DBFO are also highlighted, in which this compound sublimes, and must be handled with care, as it will cause burns upon contact with the skin.
Targeting inflammation with collagen
Authors: Schwarz Dennis , Lipoldová Marie , Reinecke Holger , Sohrabi Yahya
Published: May 2022

Tissue damage caused by an infection or an autoimmune disease triggers degradation of collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM), which further enhances inflammation. Therefore, improving ECM in an inflamed tissue can be exploited as a potential therapeutic target. A recent study emphasised an innovative approach against COVID‐19 using polymerised type I collagen (PTIC) that improves disease severity through a hitherto unknown mechanism. In this paper, we provide an overview of potential mechanism that may explain the anti‐inflammatory effect of collagen peptides. In addition,the paper includes a brief summary of possible side effect of collagen deposition in inflammatory diseases. Altogether, current knowledge suggests that collagen may potentially reduce the residual risk in inflammatory diseases; however, the detailed mechanism remains elusive.