bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological Foundations of Societal Survival
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: September 2021

This chapter identifies the psychological foundations of societal survival. People's willingness to contribute to a web of cooperation depends on whether they consider themselves part of the web of cooperation at all. The critical concept here is the greater and lesser self. This idea derives from the Japanese philosopher Daisaku Ikeda and refers to the multiple ways we think of our identity. The most orthodox definition of self is the lesser self. As the self becomes greater, we think of other people's welfare as being just as important as our own. The question is, whose well-being is as important as one's own? It makes a difference if one sees oneself as an American or as a member of humanity. The more people share a larger conception of self, the more they are willing to make the contributions that make cooperation at that larger level viable.
The Motivation to Not Cooperate
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: September 2021

This chapter analyzes how Europe historically underdeveloped much of the world. Europe had been growing endogenously during the last few centuries of the Middle Ages. However, its big break came from the discovery of the Americas. Mexico and Peru had supplies of silver far in excess of anything available in Europe. The Spanish seizure of the Mayan and Aztec kingdoms provided Europe with a vast supply of silver currency that led to one of the greatest monetary expansions in economic history. This financed both a substantial improvement in European standards of living and a substantial increase in European military power. The chapter then looks at how the Europeans treated Java, the economic center of ancient Indonesia, as well as India. When the Industrial Revolution came, Britain developed factory textiles, which threatened to bankrupt the rest of the world's textile makers. Most of the world that was not colonized responded to the British threat by putting tariffs on English textiles. Soon all of those nations had their own textile factories and were able to compete in the world clothing market on a level playing field.
Cycles of Catastrophic Debt
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: September 2021

This chapter investigates cycles of debt crises, which occur when poor countries cannot make the payments on their loans. There are many stories of how debt crises have produced underdevelopment, but one of the most compelling is that of Egypt in the nineteenth century. Of all the nations in the Middle East, Egypt was the most primed to have an industrial revolution. It invested in bona fide development projects, including railroad building, land drainage, and building the Suez Canal. However, it spent a fortune rebuilding Cairo to make it look European and fought wars with Turkey and the Sudan, while its leaders enjoyed pharaonic lifestyles. By the mid-nineteenth century, Egypt was heavily in debt. A similar process occurred in Latin America when it got itself into serious debt problems in the 1970s. Some of the money went to development projects, some went to antipoverty projects, and some was just siphoned off. Venezuela's elite bought more foreign assets in 1981 than the entire value of the loans that were negotiated that year. When the crunch came, the International Monetary Fund insisted that the Latin American governments shrink their government expenditure in order to pay their debts. This meant that most nations in Latin America reduced their expenditure on public health and hospitals, education, and programs for the poor.
Population Growth and Landlessness
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: September 2021

This chapter focuses on the role of population growth in landlessness. The more people that exist, the more the earth's resources get consumed by human beings. We use more water, fish more fish, burn more energy, and consume more nonrenewable minerals and hydrocarbons. We cut down more forests and pollute more air. Indeed, the more people there are on the planet, the more damage we do to the environment. And ecological destruction creates more landlessness. The chapter then considers what the prospects are for controlling the size of the world's population. Ultimately, using contraception and delayed marriage to reduce the number of births is a much more appealing solution than having the population reduced by war, famine, or catastrophic plague.
Why Women’s Power Matters
Authors: Cohn Samuel
Published: September 2021

This chapter studies how women's power is one of the fundamental determinants of not only economic growth but also education levels, ecological sustainability, and social peace. Why does women's power produce social and economic benefit? A key consideration is that women who are highly educated or have access to their own sources of income have lower fertility. Women with money and career opportunities are less dependent on their husbands for economic survival and can afford to stand up to argue for their own interests. However, fertility reduction tells part of the story about why empowering women produces social development; there are other considerations at work as well. If women are educated, they become more productive, and the labor force becomes more productive. Women's labor force participation is linked to the presence of industries that employ a lot of women. Women's power also increases the human capital of future generations. Meanwhile, the statistical correlation between female social power and reduced warfare is explained in part by the historical record of women participating in peacekeeping activities.
COVID-19 and Hypertension: A Mini-Review of Their Mutual Effect
Authors: Ralapanawa Udaya
Published: September 2021

Cases of Coronavirus disease are rapidly increasing across the world. Hypertension is the commonest co-morbidity among COVID-19 infected patients and hypertension is one of the determinants of severity of COVID-19.COVID -19 virus uses ACE-2 as an entry receptor and ACE-2 plays a vital role in blood pressure control in an individual. Certain antihypertensive medications may affect ACE-2 level and hence COVID-19 pathogenesis. At present, while the worlds focus is on the COVID-19, there is a danger that management of other illnesses like hypertension might be overlooked. It is highly recommended to take antihypertensive medications as directed and following healthy lifestyle practices like regular exercise, consuming low salt heart-healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress, and practicing mindfulness even during this pandemic.
Variation in Toxicity and Physicochemical Parameters of Cassava Pulp (Manihot esculenta) during Storage
Authors: Bénédicte Deffan Zranseu Ange , Constant Yapi Jocelyn , Prudence Deffan Kahndo , Diomandé Masse , Maxwell Beugre Grah Avit
Published: September 2021

Background: A staple for about 800 million people in tropical countries, cassava contains a high content of hydrocyanic acid making it toxic.

Objective: This study was proposed to test the conservation effectiveness on tuber toxicity. Materials and Methods: Tests were carried out on the varieties commonly known as Bonoua and Yacé. The conservation parameters studied were: the level of hydrocyanic acid, moisture content and hardness. The cassava tubers were stored at room temperature. The samples for analysis were taken on the pulp every 24 hours.

Results: Results showed that hydrocyanic acid levels reached their minimum levels between 96 and 120 hours of storage with 5.87 ± 0.46 and 5.66 ± 0.50 mg/kg in Bonoua, then 9.53 ± 0.78 and 9.85 ± 0.93 mg/kg in IAC. Water levels are positively correlated with those of hydrocyanic acid in both cassava types. Proteins reach reveal in their maximum concentrations between 48 and 72 hours of storage (respectively to then drop. The ash and fat contents as well as the total carbohydrate contents generally decrease during storage. However, an increase is observed from 120 hours of storage, at the level of carbohydrate concentrations.

Conclusion: For a non-toxic cassava pulp, a storage period of at least 48 hours at the Bonoua and 96 hours at the IAC would be advisable with however a lower biochemical quality.
Influence of New Generation PGRs on Yield Parameter and Economics of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari
Authors: Patel Manas Kumar , Panda Chintamani , Senapati Susanta , Nayak Pradyot Kumar
Published: September 2021

The present investigation entitled “Influence of new generation PGRs on yield of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Dashehari” was conducted at Horticulture experiment Station, Baramunda, OUAT, Bhubaneswar during the year 2017-19. The objective of this experiment was to improve the fruit retention of mango, Yield and its economic in c.v. Dashehari by using brassinostroids and triacontanol. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replication and 12 treatments. Comprising spraying of brassinostroids (each 0.5 and 1.0 ppm), Triacontanol (@ each 300, 500 and 700 ppm) and control and its combination. The observations on different characters of fruit viz., fruit set per panicle at pea stage, fruit retention per panicle at marble stage, fruit drop %, fruit retention per panicle at harvest stage, fruit retention per  shoot cluster, fruit retention per tree, number of days taken from spraying to ripening, yield per tree (kg), and its economics were recorded. Among these treatments 1 ppm brassinosteroid and 300ppm triacontanol sprayed at pea stage has increased in fruit retention per panicle at harvest stage (5.95), fruit retention per shoot cluster (30.04) and fruit retention per tree (174.84) along with early maturity (81.66 days) and yield (31.87 kg) found whereas 1 ppm brassinosteroid give maximum fruit set per panicle at pea stage (35.16) & Fruit retention per panicle at marble stage (14.63) and minimum fruit drop percentage (49.25%) were found in 300 ppm triacontanol. Maximum gross return (Rs74,625/-) and B:C ratio (1: 2.94) also found in the treatment 1 ppm brassinosteroid and 300 ppm triacontanol.
Analysis on the Effect of Different Mulberry Varieties on the Commercial Parameters of Mulberry Silkworm (Bombyx mori): A Review
Authors: Bukhari Rubia , Sudan Kalpna
Published: September 2021

Sericulture is a commerce that involves the cultivation of mulberry plant species, the raising of silkworms, and the manufacture of silk. It is a sustainable, eco-friendly, and agricultural focused commerce. It is one of the largest employment industries, and it has played a significant role in rural opportunities and financial progress. The silkworm is the greatest mulberry assessor since different mulberry   types differ in numerous characteristics. Criteria for assessment have been created using a bioassay of silkworm larvae. The impact of a specific mulberry variety on a certain silkworm hybrid may be assessed based on growth/development, survival, and eventually cocoon generation, which directly influences silk productivity.
Febrile Convulsions in Anemic Children: A Review
Authors: Mohamed Hassan Tag Elkhatim , Alruwaili Ibtisam Khulaif , Alenazi Maisa Hamad Freaj , Alanazi Ahlam sultan , Alenezi Norah Thyap Matar
Published: September 2021

Febrile convulsions are the most common type of convulsions that affect children aged 6 months to 5 years old. Iron deficiency anemia could be a risk factor for febrile convulsions as was suggested by some studies, for the reason that febrile convulsions is common in children under 5 years and iron deficiency anemia is also more common in children in the same age bracket. The prevalence of febrile convulsions is 2-5% of the total number of children. Studies discussing the association of iron deficiency anemia and febrile convulsions are contradictory. Management of cases is of great importance as there are special guidelines. Prevention is also vital as it plays a role in evading the occurrence of the convulsions.
Assessment of Psychological Stress among Quarantined COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Venkatesan Krishnaraju , Alshahrani Shadia Hamoud , Paulsamy Premalatha , Qureshi Absar Ahmed , Alshahrani Zainah , Fahad H. Z. Alshahrani
Published: September 2021

Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been causing a worldwide pandemic since the end of 2019. This study looked at the mental health of COVID-19 patients who had been quarantined. This cross-sectional study included fifty COVID - 19 patients who were under quarantine. Online self-reported questionnaires were used in the study. Demographic data and an inventory of pandemic-related stress factors (PRSF) were used to analyse COVID-19-related stress domains. The quarantined COVID - 19 patients had pandemic related stress among themselves. Lack of knowledge about infectiveness and virulence (78%), sleep disorders (94%), financial concerns (92 %) and feeling isolated and avoidance by others (90%) were the most common stressors. Eighty two percent of the patients felt that they were being protected by the family and relatives and only 48% felt that the government is taking the responsibility of protecting them. The findings show that COVID-19 patients in quarantine reported severe psychological distress. As a result, this study urge that required measures be taken to alleviate COVID-19 patients stress, with special focus paid to patients perceptions of stigma and coping techniques.
Teaching, research or balanced? An exploration of the experiences of biomedical scientists working in UK medical schools
Authors: Collett Tracey , Capey Steve , Edwards James , Evans Darrell J. , McLachlan John C. , Watson Helen , Bristow David
Published: September 2021

Driven by demand for high standards in university education, efforts have been made in the UK to address the perceived imbalance between teaching and research. However, teaching is still perceived by many as having less credibility and is attributed less importance. The purpose of our research was to explore how distinct types of academic job profiles (‘research’ or ‘education’ focused, or ‘balanced’) impact on biomedical scientists' perceptions of the lecturer role. Specifically, we investigated the experiences of biomedical scientists in ‘post‐1990’ medical schools, which are known for their commitment to excellence in both research and education. We conducted 22 face‐to‐face, semi‐structured interviews with biomedical scientists in five schools. Focusing on experiences of work, the interviews covered: ‘motivations’, ‘role expectations’, ‘teaching’, ‘research’ and ‘career’. The recorded qualitative data were transcribed and then analysed thematically. Our results, offering an insight into the working lives of biomedical scientists in medical education, suggest that in settings with a dual emphasis on education and research, individuals on ‘balanced’ contracts can experience a strong pull between research and teaching. In addition to posing significant challenges with respect to workload management, this can impact profoundly on professional identity. In contrast to the balanced role, ‘research’ or ‘education’ focused roles appear to have clearer requirements, leading to higher employee satisfaction. We conclude that to assist the educational mission of Higher Education, attention should be paid to balanced contracts, to (a) ensure employee support, (b) mitigate against negative perceptions of teaching, and ultimately, (c) guard against staff attrition.
Implementing a Virtual Flipped Classroom in a Rheumatology Fellowship Program
Authors: Wade Stefanie D. , Freed Jason A. , Kyttaris Vasileios C. , Saunders Staci , Hausmann Jonathan S.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Active learning opportunities within graduate medical education may be underused. We aimed to assess whether active learning strategies increase after implementing a faculty development workshop and transitioning rheumatology fellowship didactics to a virtual flipped classroom.

Methods

We measured baseline faculty use of active learning strategies during lectures within the Introductory Rheumatology Curriculum by calculating an “active learning score” from a cognitive learning theory assessment tool. We held a faculty development workshop demonstrating active teaching strategies and encouraged using a flipped classroom for fellowship didactics. Because of the COVID‐19 pandemic, the strategies were discussed in a virtual classroom setting where the intervention phase would occur. We compared active learning scores before and after the intervention for lectures within the Introductory Rheumatology Curriculum. The primary outcome was the change in active teaching scores preintervention versus postintervention.

Results

Active learning scores increased in 14 of the 16 lectures, with a mean score increase of 4.7 of 24 points (95% confidence interval 2.3–7.2). Paired t‐test analyses comparing active learning scores preintervention and postintervention for each lecture confirmed that results were highly statistically significant (P < 0.001). Despite faculty hesitancy to teach within a virtual environment, faculty satisfaction remained high postintervention.

Conclusion

A virtual flipped classroom increased the use of active learning strategies within the Introductory Rheumatology Curriculum. Faculty satisfaction remained high despite modest increases in time spent updating their presentations. Fellows and faculty reported a largely positive experience within the virtual classroom.
Resistive Switching by Percolative Conducting Filaments in Organometal Perovskite Unipolar Memory Devices Analyzed Using Current Noise Spectra
Authors: Ahn Heebeom , Kang Keehoon , Song Younggul , Lee Woocheol , Kim Jae‐Keun , Kim Junwoo , Lee Jonghoon , Baek Kyeong‐Yoon , Shin Jiwon , Lim Hyungbin , Kim Yongjin , Lee Jae Sung , Lee Takhee
Published: September 2021

Organometal halide perovskites have emerged as potential material systems for resistive memory devices besides their outstanding optical and electrical properties. Although halide‐perovskite resistive memory has the advantage of operating with a low voltage and large on/off ratio, random distribution in operation voltage remains a challenge in memory application. This stochastic operation characteristic is due to the random formation of conducting filaments that cause resistance fluctuations in the material. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the formation and dissolution of conducting filaments and their structure. However, direct observation of a nanoscale filamentary structure is often challenging. Moreover, detailed studies of conducting filaments in halide‐perovskite materials have rarely been reported. By employing a scaling theory with a fractal structure, this study investigates the geometric structures and dynamics of conducting filaments formed in organometal halide perovskite through current noise analysis. The temperature‐dependent electrical properties and current noise demonstrate the role of ion migration in the formation of conducting filaments. The findings could enhance the understanding of the resistive switching phenomena of perovskite resistive memory devices in terms of percolative conducting filaments. Thus, providing a route for achieving a stable memory operation by controlling the relevant structure and dynamics of the switching processes.
Bioinspired Multifunctional Photonic‐Electronic Smart Skin for Ultrasensitive Health Monitoring, for Visual and Self‐Powered Sensing
Authors: Zhao Yi , Gao Wenchao , Dai Kun , Wang Shuo , Yuan Zuqing , Li Jiannan , Zhai Wei , Zheng Guoqiang , Pan Caofeng , Liu Chuntai , Shen Changyu
Published: September 2021

Smart skin is highly desired to be ultrasensitive and self‐powered as the medium of artificial intelligence. Here, an ultrasensitive self‐powered mechanoluminescence smart skin (SPMSS) inspired by the luminescence mechanism of cephalopod skin and the ultrasensitive response of spider‐slit‐organ is developed. Benefitting from the unique strain‐dependent microcrack structure design based on Ti3C2Tx (MXene)/carbon nanotube synergistic interaction, SPMSS possesses excellent strain sensing performances including ultralow detection limit (0.001% strain), ultrahigh sensitivity (gauge factor, GF = 3.92 × 107), ultrafast response time (5 ms), and superior durability and stability (>45 000 cycles). Synchronously, SPMSS exhibits tunable and highly sensitive mechanoluminescence (ML) features under stretching. A relationship between ML features, strain sensing performances, and the deformation has been established successfully. Importantly, the SPMSS demonstrates excellent properties as triboelectric nanogenerator (4 × 4 cm2), including ultrahigh triboelectric output (open‐circuit voltage VOC = 540 V, short‐circuit current ISC = 42 µA, short‐circuit charge QSC = 317 nC) and power density (7.42 W m−2), endowing the smart skin with reliable power source supply and self‐powered sensing ability. This bioinspired smart skin exhibits multifunctional applications in health monitoring, visual sensing, and self‐powered sensing, showing great potential in artificial intelligence.
NanoRobotic Structures with Embedded Actuation via Ion Induced Folding
Authors: Benouhiba Amine , Wurtz Léo , Rauch Jean‐Yves , Agnus Joël , Rabenorosoa Kanty , Clévy Cédric
Published: September 2021

4D structures are tridimensional structures with time‐varying abilities that provide high versatility, sophisticated designs, and a broad spectrum of actuation and sensing possibilities. The downsizing of these structures below 100 μm opens up exceptional opportunities for many disciplines, including photonics, acoustics, medicine, and nanorobotics. However, it requires a paradigm shift in manufacturing methods, especially for dynamic structures. A novel fabrication method based on ion‐induced folding of planar multilayer structures embedding their actuation is proposed—the planar structures are fabricated in bulk through batch microfabrication techniques. Programmable and accurate bidirectional foldings (−70° − +90°) of Silica/Chromium/Aluminium (SiO2/Cr/Al) multilayer structures are modeled, experimentally demonstrated then applied to embedded electrothermal actuation of controllable and dynamic 4D nanorobotic structures. The method is used to produce high‐performances case‐study grippers for nanorobotic applications in confined environments. Once folded, a gripping task at the nano‐scale is demonstrated. The proposed fabrication method is suitable for creating small‐scale 4D systems for nanorobotics, medical devices, and tunable metamaterials, where rapid folding and enhanced dynamic control are required.
Large‐Area Pixelized Optoelectronic Neuromorphic Devices with Multispectral Light‐Modulated Bidirectional Synaptic Circuits
Authors: Kwon Sung Min , Kwak Jee Young , Song Seungho , Kim Jeehoon , Jo Chanho , Cho Sung Soo , Nam Seung‐Ji , Kim Jaehyun , Park Gyeong‐Su , Kim Yong‐Hoon , Park Sung Kyu
Published: September 2021

The complete hardware implementation of an optoelectronic neuromorphic computing system is considered as one of the most promising solutions to realize energy‐efficient artificial intelligence. Here, a fully light‐driven and scalable optoelectronic neuromorphic circuit with metal‐chalcogenide/metal‐oxide heterostructure phototransistor and photovoltaic divider is proposed. To achieve wavelength‐selective neural operation and hardware‐based pattern recognition, multispectral light modulated bidirectional synaptic circuits are utilized as an individual pixel for highly accurate and large‐area neuromorphic computing system. The wavelength selective control of photo‐generated charges at the heterostructure interface enables the bidirectional synaptic modulation behaviors including the excitatory and inhibitory modulations. More importantly, a 7 × 7 neuromorphic pixel circuit array is demonstrated to show the viability of implementing highly accurate hardware‐based pattern training. In both the pixel training and pattern recognition simulation, the neuromorphic circuit array with the bidirectional synaptic modulation exhibits lower training errors and higher recognition rates, respectively.
Cerium‐Doped Perovskite Nanocrystals for Extremely High‐Performance Deep‐Ultraviolet Photoelectric Detection
Authors: Li Dongyu , Xu Wen , Zhou Donglei , Ji Yanan , Ding Nan , Chen Xu , Zhu Jinyang , Sun Rui , Lu Siyu , Ma Chonggeng , Jia Zhixu , Qin Guanshi , Bai Xue , Song Hongwei
Published: September 2021

In this study, a novel deep‐ultraviolet photodetector (DUVPD) based on the hybrids of solution‐processed CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br):Ce3+ perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) and plasmonic Al film is presented. The optical absorption strength of the CsPbX3:Ce3+ PNCs is improved by one order of magnitude in the solar‐blind DUV range (200–280 nm) compared with the undoped. First‐principles calculations and Dorenbos's 4f and 5d host referred binding energy (HRBE) models prove that such an improvement results from the 4f–5d transition of Ce3+. The presence of Al film further improves the optical absorption strength in this DUV range due to the plasmonic effect and the metal−perovskite junction between Al film and perovskite. Finally, the DUVPDs based on CsPbCl3:Ce3+/Al hybrids demonstrate extremely high detectivity of 4 × 1013 Jones. This work is the first approach to build up high‐performance DUVPDs based on the doped PNCs.
Optical Resonance Coupled with Electronic Structure Engineering toward High‐Sensitivity Photodetectors
Authors: Yang Mengmeng , Yan Jiahao , Ma Churong , Gao Wei , Zhou Yuchen , Yao Jiandong , Zheng Zhaoqiang , Wu Fugen , Li Jingbo
Published: September 2021

Ultrasensitive photodetectors with high responsivity, detectivity, and fast response rate have triggered urgent demand in extensive applications. In recent years, 2D indium chalcogenides have emerged as appealing photoactive materials due to their excellent electrical and optoelectronic properties. However, suffering from the weak optical absorption induced by atomically thin thickness as well as the short lifetime of photogenerated carriers, conventional 2D indium chalcogenides photodetectors commonly exhibit limited photodetection performance. Herein, a universal strategy integrating 2D indium chalcogenides and Si nanostripe array is demonstrated. The Si nanostripes afford Mie‐type resonance, which facilitates light absorption. In addition, the introduction of photoconductive gain and strain engineering prolongs photogenerated carriers’ lifetime and accelerates their transport. The coupling effect of these three mechanisms enables the device to exhibit high photodetection performance. The constructed α‐In2Se3 device manifests a high responsivity of 9.4 × 103 A W−1, detectivity of 5.5 × 1013 Jones while maintaining fast rise/decay time of 2.7/3.8 ms. In addition, this proposed strategy can also be employed to construct InSe device with comprehensively enhanced photodetection performance, which presents universality and wide applicability. These results demonstrate that advanced device design is an effective avenue to achieve future multifunctional optoelectronic devices with high sensitivity.
From 0D to 3D: Dimensional Control of Bismuth for Potassium Storage with Superb Kinetics and Cycling Stability
Authors: Cheng Xiaolong , Sun Yingjie , Li Dongjun , Yang Hai , Chen Fei , Huang Fanyang , Jiang Yu , Wu Ying , An Xingtao , Yu Yan
Published: September 2021

Bismuth‐based anode for potassium ion batteries (KIBs) has gained great attention due to its high volumetric specific capacity (3800 mA h mL−1). However, the Bi‐based materials face a huge volumetric change upon the cycling process. Herein, the dimensionality manipulation in the Bi‐anode is focused to realize superior electrochemical performance. The morphological evolution rules of 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D Bi anodes upon the potassiation/depotassiation process are clarified. Thereinto, the 2D‐Bi transforms into the continuous porous Bi nanoligaments with retaining the original nanosheet shape, which shorten the ion diffusion path and buffers the volume expansion, demonstrating the best electrochemical performance. The 2D‐Bi achieves a superior long‐term cycling stability (344 mA h g−1 after 750 cycles at 10 A g−1) and excellent rate performance (345 mA h g−1 at 30 A g−1). The full‐cell paired with Prussian blue (2D‐Bi//PB) exhibits high energy density and power density (174 W h kg−1 at 475 W kg−1). The operando X‐ray diffraction reveals that the final alloyed product is hexagonal‐K3Bi at first cycle, while cubic‐K3Bi is obtained in the following cycle. This strategy is helpful to design alloy‐type anodes for practical application in KIBs.
Design and operation of an enhanced pervaporation device with static mixers
Authors: Zhang Haomiao , Ładosz Agnieszka , Jensen Klavs F.
Published: September 2021

Pervaporation has a high potential for separating miscible solutions, particularly azeotropic mixtures. However, mass transfer limitations have long been a common concern in pervaporation device design. Therefore, in this work, we design a static mixer‐based pervaporation device using water–ethanol separation as a model system and further develop computational fluid dynamics tools to investigate systematically all the influencing parameters. In the experiments, we use three‐dimensional printed helical static mixers in the feed liquid channel to enhance mass transfer and implement a Sulzer pervaporation membrane for fast removal of water from ethanol. Using flow and mass‐transfer simulations, we fit the membrane mass transfer coefficient and provide predictive models for optimal process design. Our pervaporation assembly exhibits promising performance and potential toward pervaporation processes for the removal of water from organics and is preferably scaled out by using stackable designs.
Thermodynamics of molybdenum trioxide encapsulated in zeolite Y
Authors: Zhang Xianghui , Strzelecki Andrew C. , Cockreham Cody B. , Goncharov Vitaliy G. , Li Houqian , Sun Junming , Sun Hui , Guo Xiaofeng , Xu Hongwu , Su Ha , Wang Baodong , Wang Yong , Wu Di
Published: September 2021

Zeolites with encapsulated transition metal species are extensively applied in the chemical industry as heterogenous catalysts for favorable kinetic pathways. To elucidate the energetic insights into formation of subnano‐sized molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) encapsulated/confined in zeolite Y (FAU) from constituent oxides, we performed a systematic experimental thermodynamic study using high‐temperature oxide melt solution calorimetry as the major tool. Specifically, the formation enthalpy of each MoO3/FAU is less endothermic than corresponding zeolite Y, suggesting enhanced thermodynamic stability. As Si/Al ratio increases, the enthalpies of formation of MoO3/FAU with identical loading (5 Mo‐wt%) tend to be less endothermic, ranging from 61.1 ± 1.8 (Si/Al = 2.9) to 32.8 ± 1.4 kJ/mol TO2 (Si/Al = 45.6). Coupled with spectroscopic, structural and morphological characterizations, we revealed intricate energetics of MoO3–zeolite Y guest–host interactions determined by the Si/Al ratio and the subtle redox and/or local structural evolutions of encapsulated MoO3.
TiCl4‐Promoted Asymmetric Aldol Reaction of Oxazolidinones and its Sulphur‐Congeners for Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Bhamboo Prateek , Bera Smritilekha , Mondal Dhananjoy
Published: September 2021

Nature is incessantly affianced to construct bioactive and structurally intriguing compounds with magnificent three‐dimensional frameworks in the Universe. The inadequacy of these naturally occurring precious compounds prompted several minds of chemists to synthesise them in a laboratory for a thorough evaluation of their medicinal and clinical properties via a structure‐activity relationship study. Finding an optimised methodology to synthesise chiral natural products has always been challenging in synthetic organic chemistry, particularly the formation of asymmetric carbon‐carbon bonds adhering to the existing stereochemistry. In this context, chiral auxiliaries have proven to be effective tools for inducing chirality during the synthesis of chiral molecules. In fact, the chiral auxiliary will allow us to control the synthesis of many enantiomerically pure isomers in natural product synthesis. In this area, the significant contribution of the Evans’ chiral auxiliary in TiCl4‐mediated asymmetric aldol reactions to the installation of known configurations in organic synthetic chemistry motivated us to compile an exhaustive and systematic summary of the relevant research findings published in the last two decades.
Catalyst‐Free Hydrogen Proton Transfer Reduction of Nitrobenzamides to Aminobenzamides with iPrOH/KOH System
Authors: Bai Xueying , Huang Liliang , Qing Bin , Zuo Zhicheng , Feng Huangdi
Published: September 2021

A reduction of nitrobenzenes via the combination of KOH and isopropanol was established for the general synthesis of aniline derivatives. A metal catalyst isn't required in this alternative reduction reaction, and a series of nitrobenzamide compounds were chemoselectively reduced into the corresponding aminobenzamides in good to excellent yields. This reaction is operationally simple, and proceeds under mild conditions.
Glucose electrocatalysts derived from mono‐ or dicarbene coordinated nickel(II) complexes and their mesoporous carbon composites
Authors: Yhobu Zhoveta , K. N. Brinda , Achar Gautam , Małecki Jan Grzegorz , Keri Rangappa S. , D. H. Nagaraju , Budagumpi Srinivasa
Published: September 2021

Molecular electrocatalysts that contain a metal atom under precise ligand field in a definite geometry feasible for redox reactions has boundless significance in numerous electrocatalytic reactions. Herein, we report nickel‐based molecular electrocatalysts anchored on the sterically varied 1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐ylidene ligands. The two metal complexes bearing different ligand system wherein one is mono‐NHC nickel(II) complex and the other is a bis‐NHC nickel(II) complex were compared and studied in terms of morphology and electrochemical glucose sensing. The kinetics and sensitivity of the nickel(II) complexes were significantly enhanced by the mesoporous carbon and demonstrated high electrode sensitivity (2.57–124.92 μA mM−1 cm−2) at a fixed potential towards glucose detection. The chronoamperometric studies evidenced the detection of glucose up to 27.5 mM with a linear range of detection up to 9.5 mM (LOD of 44.59 μM). The selectivity towards glucose in the presence of other blood constituents was investigated. Finally, the stability was studied after 18 days of electrode preparation, and negligible variation in the glucose sensing performance was found. The electrocatalysts prepared are found to be the viable candidates for potential engineering high‐performance molecular non‐enzymatic glucose sensor.
A binuclear copper(II) complex based on hydrazone ligand: Characterization, molecular docking, and theoretical and antimicrobial investigation
Authors: Santiago Pedro H. de O. , Duarte Eduardo de A. , Nascimento Érica C. M. , Martins João B. L. , Castro Mariana S. , Gatto Claudia C.
Published: September 2021

A new binuclear copper(II) complex [Cu2L2(μ‐SO4)(dmf)] with the 2‐acetylpyridinebenzoylhydrazone (HL) ligand was synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, density functional theory (DFT), and molecular docking studies. The crystal structure revealed each copper(II) atom coordinated to the NNO chelating system of the anionic hydrazone ligand and a sulfate bridged. The copper ions are connected by a sulfate bridge, which keeps a distance of 3.292(3) Å between the two copper(II) centers. Additionally, only one of the copper(II) atoms is coordinated to the oxygen atom of the N,N‐dimethylformamide (dmf) solvent molecule, resulting in two different geometry to each metal center. Cu···O interactions are observed for the secondary coordination sphere of Cu1 and Cu2 atoms with distances of 2.545(2) and 2.821(3) Å, respectively. Theoretical studies with DFT were performed to optimize the geometry of the complex and investigate its spectroscopic properties supporting the experimental results. Two different approaches were used in computational calculations, the plane wave using Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof (PBE) functional and the localized basis set using the following functionals: B3LYP, B3PW91, CAM‐B3LYP, LC‐wPBE, M06‐2X, ωB97‐XD, PBE1PBE, and HSEH1PBE. The in vitro antibacterial potential of the new complex was evaluated against pathogenic bacteria and fungi and compared with the free ligand. The molecular docking was used to predict the inhibitory activity of the ligand and complex against one Gram‐positive bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis), one Gram‐negative bacteria (Enterobacter aerogenes), and one fungi (Candida albicans) species.
Rethinking autism spectrum disorder assessment for children during COVID‐19 and beyond
Authors: Zwaigenbaum Lonnie , Bishop Somer , Stone Wendy L. , Ibanez Lisa , Halladay Alycia , Goldman Sylvie , Kelly Amy , Klaiman Cheryl , Lai Meng‐Chuan , Miller Meghan , Saulnier Celine , Siper Paige , Sohl Kristin , Warren Zachary , Wetherby Amy
Published: September 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has posed unique challenges for families and caregivers, as well as for autism‐focused clinicians, who are faced with providing a thorough and accurate evaluation of children's specific needs and diagnoses in the absence of in‐person assessment tools. The shift to telehealth assessments has challenged clinicians to reconsider approaches and assumptions that underlie the diagnostic assessment process, and to adopt new ways of individualizing standard assessments according to family and child needs. Mandates for physical distancing have uncovered deficiencies in diagnostic practices for suspected autism and have illuminated biases that have posed obstacles preventing children and families from receiving the services that they truly need. This Commentary outlines several considerations for improving diagnostic practices as we move forward from the current pandemic and continue to strive to build an adaptable, sustainable, equitable, and family‐centered system of care.

Lay Summary

Physical distancing and the abrupt end to in‐person services for many children on the autism spectrum has forced clinicians to examine the existing challenges with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnostic assessment and consider things they want to keep and things that should be changed in the years ahead. New approaches such as telehealth both alleviated and exacerbated existing disparities, and brought into stark focus the importance of equitable and timely access to family‐centered care. This commentary suggests ways of improving clinical practices related to ASD assessment to continue along this path.
Glycogen synthase kinase‐3β inactivation promotes cervical cancer progression, invasion, and drug resistance
Authors: Nath Nidhi , Rana Ajay , Nagini Siddavaram , Mishra Rajakishore
Published: September 2021

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection‐dependent cervical cancer is one of the most common gynecological cancers and often becomes aggressive, with rapid proliferation, invasion/migration, and drug resistance. Here, 135 fresh human cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) tissue specimens, comprising 21 adjacent normal (AN), 30 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN1–3), 45 CSCC, and 39 drugs (chemo‐radiation)‐resistant cervical tumor (DRCT) tissues were included. HPV‐positive (HeLa, SiHa), HPV‐negative (C33A), and cisplatin‐resistant (CisR–HeLa/–SiHa/–C33A) cell lines were used for in vitro studies. HPV16/18 oncoproteins E6/E7, pERK1/2, and glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK3) and the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) MMP‐9/‐2 were assessed using immunohistochemistry, WB, and gelatin zymography. HPV16/18 infection was observed in 16.7% of the CIN1‐3, 77.8% of the CSCC, and 89.7% of DRCT samples. Total and inactive GSK3β expressions were associated with overall CSCC progression (p = 0.039 and p = 0.024, respectively) and chemoresistance (p = 0.004 and p = 0.014, respectively). Positive correlations were observed, between the expression of E6 and pGSK3β expression (p = 0.013); E6 and CSCC progression (p < 0.0001)/drug resistance (p = 0.0001). CisR–HeLa/–SiHa was more dependent on pGSK3β, and activation of GSK3 by SMIs (iAkt), treatment with nimbolide, or knockdown of E6/E7 reduced cisplatin resistance and promoted apoptosis. Hence, the activation of GSK3β with nimbolide and iAkt can be exploited for therapeutic interventions of cervical cancer.
A rapid and sensitive LC–MS/MS method for the determination of vanillic acid in rat plasma with application to pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Liang Yuan , Ma Tiancheng , Li Yuwei , Cai Na
Published: September 2021

Vanillic acid, a phenolic compound isolated from Angelica sinensis and green tea, exhibits excellent antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. In this study, a rapid and sensitive ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was established and validated for the determination of vanillic acid in rat plasma. Plasma samples were prepared by protein precipitation with acetonitrile. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Zorbax RRHD Eclipse Plus C18 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) with gradient elution at a flow rate of 0.3 ml/min, using mobile phase consisting of 0.1% formic acid (A) and acetonitrile (B). Vanillic acid and caffeic acid (internal standard, IS) were quantified by multiple reaction monitoring in negative ion mode. The method was fully validated according to the US Food and Drug Administration guidelines. The calibration curve was linear over the range of 2–1,000 ng/ml with a correlation coefficient of >0.99. The carryover, matrix effect, extraction recovery, dilution effect, intra‐ and interday precision and accuracy were within acceptable limits. The method was then applied to a pharmacokinetic study of vanillic acid in rats. After oral administration at doses of 2, 5 and 10 mg/kg, the plasma concentration reached peaks of 0.42 ± 0.09, 0.73 ± 0.21 and 0.92 ± 0.28 μg/ml at the time of 0.55–0.64 h, respectively. The oral bioavailability was calculated as 25.3–36.2% in rat plasma. The result provided pre‐clinical information for further application of vanillic acid.
Blink index as a response predictor of blepharospasm to botulinum neurotoxin‐A treatment
Authors: Jang Jeongkyeong , Lew Helen
Published: September 2021

Purpose

We investigated the blink profiles and blink index using ocular surface interferometer in the patients with blepharospasm (BSP) and identified points to consider predictive factor after BSP treatment.

Methods

In total, 117 eyelids of 59 elderly patients and 20 eyelids of 10 age‐matched control group were studied. All BSP patients applied botulinum toxin‐A (BoNT‐A) injection for treatment of BSP. An ocular surface interferometer (LipiView; TearScience, Morrisville, NC, USA) was used to measure blink profile and blink index; total and incomplete blinks/20 s, and the partial blink ratio (PBR). Eyelid blink time (including lid closing time, closure time, lid opening time), interblink times (IBT), closing speeds (OS), and opening speeds (OS) were analyzed using 600 blinks recorded over 20 s.

Results

Total blink rate was significantly higher in BSP patients compared to the age‐matched control group (p = .029) but other time‐related and speed‐related index including interpalpebral fissure, PBR, blink time, closure time (CT), interblink time, CS, and OS were not significantly different. In the responder of BSP patients, the average age was higher, CT was shorter, CS was faster than nonresponder (age; p = .016, CT; p < .001, CS; p = .042).

Conclusion

The blink index by analyzing the blink profile using ocular surface interferometer, and this blink index may be used as a predictive factor for evaluating the clinical response after BoNT‐A injection in blepharospasm patients.
A narrative review and clinical anatomy of herpes zoster infection following COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Iwanaga Joe , Fukuoka Hiroshi , Fukuoka Nobuko , Yutori Hirokazu , Ibaragi Soichiro , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: September 2021

Introduction

In this review, cases of herpes zoster (HZ) infection following receipt of COVID‐19 vaccines will be analyzed. We also present two cases of oral HZ following the COVID‐19 vaccine and discuss this clinical anatomy.

Materials and Methods

A database search using PubMed was conducted in August 2021 and 20 articles were found to be eligible for review. Patient data and vaccine information were analyzed. In addition, two cases of oral HZ infection following the receipt of COVID‐19 vaccines are presented.

Results

A total of 399 cases were identified. The affected dermatomes mimicked the regular distribution of HZ. For the dermatomes of the face, the various reports used different ways to describe the areas involved; CNV, CNV1, CNV2, CNV3, lower jaw, forehead, and under the eyebrow (CNV, 2 cases; CNV1, 4 cases; CNV2, 3 cases; and CNV3, 3 cases). Some patients who had a history of varicella zoster virus vaccination had HZ following the COVID‐19 vaccination. Two patients with oral HZ following vaccination were found to have involvement of the greater palatine nerve.

Conclusions

Vaccine‐related HZ cases have been reported worldwide. Although many studies with a larger number of cases are ongoing, detailed information can be obtained from case reviews as reported herein.
The patellar ligament: A comprehensive review
Authors: Bennett Karis , Vincent Tanner , Sakthi‐Velavan Sumathilatha
Published: September 2021

The patellar ligament (PL) is an epiphyseal ligament and is part of the extensor complex of the knee. The ligament has gained attention due to its clinical relevance to autograft and tendinopathy. A variety of anatomical variations of the PL such as aplasia, numerical variations, and vascularity are being reported recently by clinicians and anatomists. The aim of this literature was to review the available literature to provide a consensus regarding anatomic variations of the PL, neurovasculature surrounding the PL, histology of the PL, and various aspects of PL measurements with relevance to the surgical considerations and sex and age‐related differences. A narrative review of the patellar ligament was performed by conducting a detailed literature search and review of relevant articles. A total of 90 articles on the patellar ligament were included and were categorized into studies based on anatomical variations, neurovasculature, morphometrics, microanatomy, sex and age‐related difference, and ACL reconstruction. The anatomical variations and morphometrics of the PL were found to correlate with the frequency of strain injuries, tendinopathy, and efficacy of the PL autograft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The sex differences in PL measurements and the effect of estrogen on collagen synthesis explained a higher incidence of patellar tendinopathy in women. An awareness of its variations enables careful selection of surgical incisions, thereby avoiding complications related to nerve injury. Accurate knowledge of the PL microanatomy assists in understanding the mechanism of ligament degeneration, rupture, autograft harvesting, and ligamentization results.
A Modular Approach for Surrogate Modeling of Flowsheets
Authors: Bubel Martin , Ludl Patrick Otto , Seidel Tobias , Asprion Norbert , Bortz Michael
Published: September 2021

Flowsheet simulation, an important building block in chemical process development and design, generally requires the solution of a nonlinear system of equations. Such a simulation can fail if either no solution exists for the chosen specifications or if the initial values for the solver are chosen unfavorably. In this work, to overcome such convergence failures, AI‐based surrogate models are trained for unit operations of a flowsheet and then interconnected. For a pressure swing distillation with recycle, it is shown that such an interconnection of surrogate models yields more accurate results compared to a surrogate model for the whole flowsheet at once, and that adequate starting points for the flowsheet simulation can be obtained from the interconnected surrogates.