bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abduction, Imagination, and Science
Authors: DeVito Michael ,   Evangelical Philosophical Society
Published: March 2021

In this essay, I argue that developments in Alvin Plantinga’s evolutionary argument against naturalism—specifically, Thomas Crisp’s argument against a naturalistic metaphysics—have likely undermined the project of science for naturalists who are scientific realists. Scientific theorizing requires the use of abductive reasoning. A central component of abductive reasoning is the use of one’s imagination. However, Crisp’s argument provides us reason to doubt the trustworthiness of our cognitive faculties as it relates to the imaginative abilities necessary for complex abductive reasoning.
Six new species of the genus Caccothryptus from the Himalayas (Coleoptera: Limnichidae)
Authors: Matsumoto Keita
Published: March 2021

Six new species of the genus Caccothryptus (Coleoptera: Limnichidae) are described from the Himalayan region: C. brendelli sp. nov., C. arakawae sp. nov., C. championi sp. nov., C. larryi sp. nov., C. tardarsauceae sp. nov. and C. abboti sp. nov. Photographs of type specimens with relevant morphological characters to distinguish species are provided.
Finding Meaningful Opportunities During the COVID-19 Crisis: Developing an International Radiology Elective in Cameroon
Authors: Perchik Jordan D. , Larrison Matt C. , Feudjio Ghislain
Published: March 2021

Teleradiology and remote video conferences can provide radiology residents the opportunity to participate in global radiology outreach. We reflect on how social distancing measures and remote education resources developed to address COVID-19 were applied to developing an international radiology elective.
NEW EDUCATIONAL FORMAT OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: PERSONALIZED EDUCATIONAL TRAJECTORY OF THE STUDENT
Authors:   Russian State Vocational Pedagogical University, Tretyakova V.S. , Kaigorodova А.E.
Published: March 2021

The article proposes a new format of professional development of a university student – personalized training, the target orientation of which is psychological and pedagogical support of the personalized educational route of the student. The authors state that in the modern conditions of modernization and digital transformation of education, new educational formats are required that are adequate to the new situation, one of which is the development of personalized educational routes for students of the university.
Saussure e a tradução
Authors: Flores Valdir do Nascimento
Published: March 2021

“Saussure e a Tradução objetiva derivar da linguística de Saussure uma refl exão acerca da tradução. Há vários motivos para propô-la: a) a necessidade de reler Saussure a partir de novas bases, levando em conta a especializada filologia saussuriana e a crescente divulgação de manuscritos que, hoje, permitem rever o destino dado a esse pensamento no século XX; b) a pertinência da teoria para a abordagem da tradução, considerando a amplitude que tem uma visão de conjunto da língua – articulada à diversidade das línguas – para tratar o fenômeno tradutório; c) finalmente, a prática tradutória de Saussure, tendo em vista que recentes documentos atestam que Saussure era um tradutor e, ainda mais, que essa atividade se coaduna com o seu pensamento acerca da linguagem, da língua e das línguas. O livro também reúne reflexões comparativas ao filósofo-linguista alemão Wilhelm von Humboldt que, como se sabe, legou importantes ideias sobre o fazer tradutório a partir da tradução da peça teatral Agamêmnon, de Ésquilo. Recentes manuscritos saussurianos comprovam que a mesma peça foi também traduzida por Saussure. Nesse caso, uma contraposição entre as duas traduções é feita a partir das discussões que ensejam os comentários feitos pelos tradutores. Tudo isso é pensado no quadro de uma antropologia da enunciação, ou seja, de uma reflexão que coloca o Homoloquens, o falante, no centro da reflexão. No caso em questão, o falante é nada mais nada menos que o tradutor Ferdinand de Saussure.
A fresh look at an old concept: home-range estimation in a tidy world
Authors: Signer Johannes , Fieberg John R.
Published: March 2021

A rich set of statistical techniques has been developed over the last several decades to estimate the spatial extent of animal home ranges from telemetry data, and new methods to estimate home ranges continue to be developed. Here we investigate home-range estimation from a computational point of view and aim to provide a general framework for computing home ranges, independent of specific estimators. We show how such a workflow can help to make home-range estimation easier and more intuitive, and we provide a series of examples illustrating how different estimators can be compared easily. This allows one to perform a sensitivity analysis to determine the degree to which the choice of estimator influences qualitative and quantitative conclusions. By providing a standardized implementation of home-range estimators, we hope to equip researchers with the tools needed to explore how estimator choice influences answers to biologically meaningful questions.
Cuphea Seed Oil as a Potential Alternative Natural Source of Medium-chain Triglycerides used for Healthier Cooking Applications
Authors: Farag Rabie S. , Hashem Hanafy A. , Naser Abdelrahman , Mohamed Montaser A.
Published: March 2021

Cuphea is a potential new oilseed crop for temperate regions of the USA. 

It produces and stores in its seeds medium chain length fatty acids, which currently are derived commercially from seeds of tropical palms.

Cuphea seeds contain more than 30% of oil rich in medium-chain fatty acids, caprylic, capric, lauric, and myristic fatty acids  (C8:0-C14:0). .  

In this paper, we through the light on Cuphea seed oils as the only naturally cultivated seed oils that contain the most prominent Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). 

MCTs oils are trended in the last 20 years as the healthier dietary oil which is essentially nontoxic, noncarcinogenic, and nonmutagenic for human consumption. MCTs are readily hydrolyzed by digestive enzymes, and the fatty acid end products are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream [1]. The gross energy content of MCTs is 8.3 kcal/g vs 9 kcal/g for fat or Long-chain triglycerides oils    (LCTs oils). 

The objective of this study was to introduce to the global edible oils industries an innovative potential natural healthier edible oil which contains that majority of its triglyceride compositions is based on medium-chain glycerides (MCT) with avoiding any chemical conversion process to get the MCT rich oils from tropical oils. It will be a basis for a lot of further researches to make its characteristics fulfilling all other nutritional and application needs of healthy cooking applications better than conventional seed or tropical oils.
Access to Primary Education of Remote Transmigration Community (A Case in Pohuwato Regency, Indonesia)
Authors: Wahyuddin Naufal Ilma , Lahaji . , Yasin Zohra , Obie Muhammad
Published: March 2021

This study analyzed access to primary education of transmigration community in remote areas.  It was related to the availability of primary education facilities and infrastructure, besides the efforts of parents in encouraging their children to pursue an education. It was also related to the perception of the young generation towards the importance of education and the primary education level achievements for the transmigration community, as well as the existing primary education problems and its solutions. Researchers collected data through observation, interviews, focused group discussions, and literature studies. The results showed that the education facilities in the transmigration community were sufficient. Parents made several attempts to encourage their children to go to school. Parents gave advice, showed examples of success, provided all the children's school needs, freed children for working in the garden, followed the child's school information, and gave gifts. The researchers found that the perception of the young generation of the importance of education was quite positive. The achievement of primary education in the transmigration community was quite adequate. Nevertheless, its implementation in the transmigration community still faced several problems, namely the limited availability of teachers, inadequate road transportation access, limited library access, and insufficient lighting. The problem solving that exists the involvement of various stakeholders, both local governments, schools, and the community.
First Record of Pseudotolithus senegallus (Cuvier, 1830) in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Akel Elsayed H. Kh.
Published: March 2021

This article firstly records Pseudotolithus senegallus (Cuvier, 1830) species in the Mediterranean Sea. juvenile specimen of Pseudotolithus senegallus (Cuvier, 1830) with total length 15.5 cm and total weight 37 g, was obtained by experimental  bottom trawling using  commercial bottom trawler (stretched mesh size: 15 mm; duration time: four hours; location: east of Suez Canal main stream in the Mediterranean, off Port Said). Opercle lining jet black, showing through a dark blotch externally. Axils of pectoral-fin base dark, distal portion of caudal fin darkish whereas anal and pelvic fins are yellowish. Gas bladder with a pair of arborescent appendages, dividing into short anterior branches and a dozen or so long tubular posterior appendages along sides of bladder beyond its tip. I suggest the method of introduction to the Mediterranean waters is ballast water of ships as it is recorded only from Mauritania to Angola on the western coast of Africa.
General Overview of Malnutrition under five children in low income countries and solution to mitigate
Authors: Chuwa Caresma , Dhiman Anju K. , Kathuria Deepika
Published: March 2021

Malnutrition is a broad concept that includes both under- and over-nutrition. It is the most serious public health problem and the leading cause of child mortality. About a third of children in developing countries are either underweight or stunted. Micronutrient shortages affect more than 30 percent of the world's rising population. Under nutrition, there is a mechanism whose results are routinely spread not only in later lifestyles, but also into future generations. It is a severe problem that affects children under the age of five in developing countries, resulting in stunted growth, muscle weakness, and underweight. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are still common, and they frequently occur in conjunction with a general lack of nutrients. Malnourished children are at risk of developing marasmus, kwashiorkor, anaemia, rickets, and blindness. Malnourished children have a higher risk of dying from diarrhoea, malaria, or pneumonia than children with perfect nutritional status. Effective malnutrition prevention and treatment, including the use of low-cost food available in communities, is urgently needed. These meals contain sufficient nutrients, such as protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals, to combat malnutrition in infants and children in developing countries. The focus of this review article is on promoting low-cost, locally available ingredients in groups to alleviate malnutrition in toddlers and children in low-income countries.
Psychological Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Students at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria
Authors: Adewale Boluwatife Adeleye , Adeniyi Yetunde Celia , Adeniyi Oluwadamilola Adeola , Ojediran Blessing Comfort , Aremu Peter Seyi , Odeyemi Olubunmi Emmanuel , Akintayo Abiodun David , Oluwadamilare Faith Anuoluwapo , Offorbuike Chiamaka Bianca , Owoeye Iseoluwa Philip
Published: March 2021

Introduction: The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has necessitated the implementation of public health measures including social distancing, quarantine, and lockdown. Nigerian public universities have been closed since March 2020 after the viral outbreak. This study was carried out in order to investigate the psychological impact of COVID-19 on undergraduate students.

Methods: The study was carried out among students of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan. Study participants were recruited by snowballing sampling technique and data collection was via online self-administered questionnaires. The questionnaire was adapted from the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Revised Impact of Event Scale (IES-R) to determine scores for depression, anxiety, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Results: There were 322 participants with a median age of 22.4 (IQR = 20.5-24.2) years. Psychological impact was mild to moderate in 20.2%, and severe in 19.6%. Depression was mild to moderate in 19.3%, severe to extremely severe in 5.3%. Anxiety was mild to moderate in 10.3%, severe to extremely severe in 7.5%. Stress was mild to moderate in 16.4%, severe to extremely severe in 2.2%. Factors associated (p < 0.05) with increased levels of depression, anxiety, stress and PTSD include increase in time spent on social media, TV and movies, sleep duration, and decrease in physical activity.

Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant changes for Nigerian university students. Two-fifth of them reported PTSD symptoms; one-fourth reported depression; about one-fifth reported anxiety and stress. Students need psychosocial support to help them cope with and to effectively adapt to the changes caused by the pandemic.
Prevalence of Hirsutism among Females with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Hyperthyrodism at Tertiary Care Hospital of Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Huma Ambreen , Qazi Maryam , Pathan Nusrat Fozia , Malik Durr-e-Shahwar , Metlo Marvi , Jamali Anwar Ali , Samtio Saima , Sultana Razia , Ahmed Tahseen , Ahmer Arslan
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Hirsutism is in fact unwanted growth of hairs on the various parts of body of females. Hairs arises particularly on those parts of the body on which hairs are not grown normally in females such as chin, upper lips, abdomen, legs, shoulder and back of the body. Various reasons are reported till so far for the hirsutism development. The prevalence of hirsutism was very low.

Methodology: Across-sectional study was conducted at tertiary care hospital of Sindh, Pakisan for the period of 06 months. A well structured questionnaire was developed comprises on three parts. Which was given to the female students and all the participants were guided regarding filling of that proforma and Ferriman-Gallway scale was used to measure the frequency parameters of Hirsutism.

Results: The condition of hirsutism was found among 183 participants, the distribution of hairs was quite different in all selected study subjects. 26 females had hairs on chin, 154 females had hair grown on upper lips, 24 females had hairs on lower abdomen, 13 had hairs on upper abdomen,  11 participants had hairs on arms and legs whereas only 04 girls had hair grown on their shoulders and back of the body. As far as their family background is concern 41 females were belongs to upper class, 117 females belongs to middle class while 25 females were belonging to lower class families.

Conclusion: The prevalence of hirsutism was very much common among the females with the associated condition of Idiopathic hirsutism (53%), pulmonary chronic obstructive diseases (31.5%) and Acanthosis nigricans was the most widely recognized cutaneous finding related with   hirsutism.
Medium, Small and Medium Enterprises and Digital Platforms
Authors: Tayibnapis Ahmad Zafrullah , Wuryaningsih Lucia Endang , Gora Radita
Published: March 2021

A new business platform is a must for companies that are disrupting new media technology, especially during the Covid 19 era. However, many incumbent companies are less able to keep up with changing business trends. Anticipate all changes in the competitive climate in the digital era in carrying out the company transformation program along with the implementation of good corporate governance values to avoid oral hazards and a greater risk of failure. The qualitative method used in this research is a case study approach. The analysis focuses on efforts to raise Medium, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that contribute to improving the Indonesian economy. The findings show that credit, training, and mentoring programs have not been able to strengthen their position in small and medium enterprises but they are still working to increase the literacy index and financial inclusion to accelerate income distribution in Indonesia.
Beta‐2‐Glycoprotein‐I Deficiency Could Precipitate an Antiphospholipid Syndrome‐like Prothrombotic Situation in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Serrano Manuel , Espinosa Gerard , Lalueza Antonio , Bravo‐Gallego Luz Yadira , Diaz‐Simón Raquel , Garcinuño Sara , Gil‐Etayo Javier , Moises Jorge , Naranjo Laura , Prieto‐González Sergio , Ruiz‐Ortiz Estibaliz , Sánchez Beatriz , Moreno‐Castaño Ana Belen , Díaz‐Pedroche Carmen , Viñas‐Gomis Odette , Cervera Ricard , Serrano Antonio ,   the APS‐COVID 19 Study Group/European Forum on Antiphospholipid Antibodies
Published: March 2021

Objective

Patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) present coagulation abnormalities and thromboembolic events that resemble antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). This work has aimed to study the prevalence of APS‐related antigens, antibodies, and immune complexes in patients with COVID‐19 and their association with clinical events.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted on 474 adults with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection hospitalized in two Spanish university hospitals. Patients were evaluated for classic and extra‐criteria antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs), immunoglobulin G (IgG)/immunoglobulin M (IgM) anticardiolipin, IgG/IgM/immunoglobulin A (IgA) anti‐β2‐glicoprotein‐I (aβ2GPI), IgG/IgM antiphosphatidylserine/prothrombin (aPS/PT), the immune complex of IgA aβ2GPI (IgA‐aβ2GPI), bounded to β2‐glicoprotein‐1 (β2GPI) and β2GPI levels soon after COVID‐19 diagnosis and were followed‐up until medical discharge or death.

Results

Prevalence of aPLs in patients with COVID‐19 was as follows: classic aPLs, 5.8%; aPS/PT, 4.6%; IgA‐aβ2GPI, 15%; and any aPL, 21%. When patients were compared with individuals of a control group of a similar age, the only significant difference found was the higher prevalence of IgA‐aβ2GPI (odds ratio: 2.31; 95% confidence interval: 1.16‐4.09). No significant differences were observed in survival, thrombosis, or ventilatory failure in aPL‐positive versus aPL‐negative patients. β2GPI median levels were much lower in patients with COVID‐19 (15.9 mg/l) than in blood donors (168.8 mg/l; P < 0.001). Only 3.5% of patients with COVID‐19 had normal levels of β2GPI (>85 mg/l). Low levels of β2GPI were significantly associated with ventilatory failure (P = 0.026).

Conclusion

β2GPI levels were much lower in patients with COVID‐19 than in healthy people. Low β2GPI‐levels were associated with ventilatory failure. No differences were observed in the COVID‐19 evolution between aPL‐positive and aPL‐negative patients. Functional β2GPI deficiency could trigger a clinical process similar to that seen in APS but in the absence of aPLs.
Robust fault estimation and fault‐tolerant tracking control for uncertain Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems: Application to single link manipulator
Authors: Makni Salama , Bouattour Maha , El Hajjaji Ahmed , Chaabane Mohamed
Published: March 2021

This article concerns the estimation and tracking control problems for Takagi–Sugeno systems with disturbances and norm bounded uncertainties in presence of sensor and actuator faults (SAF). First, we propose a robust fuzzy observer (RFO) design method to estimate both state and SAF for the considered class of the nonlinear systems. Then, this RFO‐based fault tolerant tracking control is developed not only to compensate the SAF effects but also to ensure the state convergence to desired trajectories in spite of their presence. To reduce the conservatism of design conditions, observer and controller gains are calculated in a single step by solving a set of linear matrix inequality constraints. H∞ criterion is used to attenuate disturbance effects and to reduce the tracking error. Finally, simulation results by considering two types of actuator fault and comparative study on a single link flexible joint manipulator are provided to underline the performances of the mentioned process.
Ambient Stable and Efficient Monolithic Tandem Perovskite/PbS Quantum Dots Solar Cells via Surface Passivation and Light Management Strategies
Authors: Tavakoli Mohammad Mahdi , Dastjerdi Hadi Tavakoli , Yadav Pankaj , Prochowicz Daniel , Si Huayan , Tavakoli Rouhollah
Published: March 2021

Here, highly efficient and stable monolithic (2‐terminal (2T)) perovskite/PbS quantum dots (QDs) tandem solar cells are reported, where the perovskite solar cell (PSC) acts as the front cell and the PbS QDs device with a narrow bandgap acts as the back cell. Specifically, ZnO nanowires (NWs) passivated by SnO2 are employed as an electron transporting layer for PSC front cell, leading to a single cell PSC with maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22.15%, which is the most efficient NWs‐based PSCs in the literature. By surface passivation of PbS QDs by CdCl2, QD devices with an improved open‐circuit voltage and a PCE of 8.46% (bandgap of QDs: 0.92 eV) are achieved. After proper optimization, 2T and 4T tandem devices with stabilized PCEs of 17.1% and 21.1% are achieved, respectively, where the 2T tandem device shows the highest efficiency reported in the literature for this design. Interestingly, the 2T tandem cell shows excellent operational stability over 500 h under continuous illumination with only 6% PCE loss. More importantly, this device without any packaging depicts impressive ambient stability (almost no change) after 70 days in an environment with controlled 65% relative humidity, thanks to the superior air stability of the PbS QDs.
Patterning Liquid Crystalline Organic Semiconductors via Inkjet Printing for High‐Performance Transistor Arrays and Circuits
Authors: Fang Xiaochen , Shi Jialin , Zhang Xiujuan , Ren Xiaobin , Lu Bei , Deng Wei , Jie Jiansheng , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: March 2021

Liquid crystalline (LC) organic semiconductors having long‐range‐ordered LC phases hold great application potential in organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs). However, to meet real device application requirements, it is a prerequisite to precisely pattern the LC film at desired positions. Here, a facile method that combines the technique of inkjet printing and melt processing to fabricate patterned LC film for achieving high‐performance organic integrated circuits is demonstrated. Inkjet printing controls the deposition locations of the LC materials, while the melt processing implements phase transition of the LC materials to form high‐quality LC films with large grain sizes. This approach enables to achieve patterned growth of high‐quality 2,7‐dioctyl[1]‐benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]benzothiophene (C8‐BTBT) LC films. The patterned C8‐BTBT LC film‐based 7 × 7 OFET array has 100% die yield and shows high average mobility of 6.31 cm2 V−1 s−1, along with maximum mobility up to 9.33 cm2 V−1 s−1. As a result, the inverters based on the patterned LC films reach a high gain up to 23.75 as well as an ultrahigh noise margin over 81.3%. Given the good generality of the patterning process and the high quality of the resulting films, the proposed method paves the way for high‐performance organic integrated devices.
Recent Progress of Alkyl Radicals Generation‐Based Agents for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Lee Ka‐Wai , Wan Yingpeng , Li Xiaozhen , Cui Xiao , Li Shengliang , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: March 2021

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is extensively explored for anticancer and antibacterial applications. It typically relies on oxygen‐dependent generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to realize its killing effect. This type of therapy modality shows compromised therapeutic results for treating hypoxic tumors or bacteria‐infected wounds. Recently, alkyl radicals attracted much attention as they can be generated from some azo‐based initiators only under mild heat stimulus without oxygen participation. Many nanocarriers or hydrogel systems have been developed to load and deliver these radical initiators to lesion sites for theranostics. These systems show good anticancer or antimicrobial effect in hypoxic environment and some of them possess specific imaging abilities providing precise guidance for treatment. This review summarizes the developed materials that aim at treating hypoxic cancer and bacteria‐infected wound by using this kind of oxygen‐irrelevant alkyl radicals. Based on the carrier components, these agents are divided into three groups: inorganic, organic, as well as inorganic and organic hybrid carrier‐based therapeutic systems. The construction of these agents and their specific advantages in biomedical field are highlighted. Finally, the existing problems and future promising development directions are discussed.
Dual‐Cues Laden Scaffold Facilitates Neurovascular Regeneration and Motor Functional Recovery After Complete Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Liu Dingyang , Shen He , Shen Yeyu , Long Ge , He Xinghui , Zhao Yannan , Yang Zhiquan , Dai Jianwu , Li Xing
Published: March 2021

Complete transection spinal cord injury (SCI) severely disrupts the integrity of both neural circuits and the microvasculature system. Hence, fabricating a functional bio‐scaffold that could coordinate axonal regeneration and vascular reconstruction in the lesion area may emerge as a new paradigm for complete SCI repair. In this study, a photosensitive hydrogel scaffold loaded with collagen‐binding stromal cell‐derived factor‐1a and Taxol liposomes is capable of inducing migration of endothelial cells and promoting neurite outgrowth of neurons in vitro. In addition, when implanted into a rat T8 complete transection SCI model, the above dual‐cues laden scaffold exhibits a synergistic effect on facilitating axon and vessel regeneration in the lesion area within 10 days after injury. Moreover, long‐term therapeutic effects are also observed after dual‐cues laden scaffold implantation, including revascularization, descending and propriospinal axonal regeneration, fibrotic scar reduction, electrophysiological recovery, and motor function improvement. In summary, the dual‐cues laden scaffold has good clinical application potential for patients with severe SCI.
Reversible Protonation of Porphyrinic Metal‐Organic Frameworks Embedded in Nanoporous Polydimethylsiloxane for Colorimetric Sensing
Authors: Sousaraei Ahmad , Queirós Carla , Moscoso Francisco G. , Silva Ana M. G. , Lopes‐Costa Tânia , Pedrosa José M. , Cunha‐Silva Luís , Cabanillas‐Gonzalez Juan
Published: March 2021

A fast and reversible switch between the neutral and protonated porphyrin forms inside a pliable porphyrinic metal–organic framework (MOF), enabled by reversible structural deformation is unveiled. This phenomenon is applied for the development of MOF‐polymer porous composites to reveal biogenic amines by color changes.
Electron‐Irradiation Promoted Exchange Reaction as a Tool for Surface Engineering and Chemical Lithography
Authors: Terfort Andreas , Zharnikov Michael
Published: March 2021

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) can serve as versatile resist/template materials for surface engineering and electron beam lithography (EBL), making possible a new type of lateral patterning: chemical lithography (CL). Whereas CL has been well established for aromatic SAMs, it is hardly possible for aliphatic monolayers, because of extensive irradiation‐induced damage excluding selective modification of specific chemical groups. Turning this drawback into an advantage, the irradiation‐promoted exchange reaction approach is developed, which is described in detail in the present review. The key idea of the approach is tuning the extent of the exchange reaction between a primary aliphatic SAM covering the substrate and a potential molecular substituent, which is capable of building a SAM on the same support, by electron irradiation. The major advantages of the approach are low irradiation doses (≤1 mC cm−2) and flexible choice of SAM‐forming molecules, with a broad pool available commercially. Consequently, a large variety of binary SAMs with controlled compositions can be prepared and, in combination with EBL, complex chemical patterns can be fabricated, serving in particular as templates for subsequent area‐selective chemical reactions, surface‐initiated polymerization, attachment of nanoparticles, non‐specific and specific proteins adsorption, and growth of 3D DNA nanostructures.
Fold‐Sensitive Visible Fluorescence in β‐Sheet Peptide Structures
Authors: Apter Boris , Lapshina Nadezda , Lapsker Igor , Handelman Amir , Accardo Antonella , Diaferia Carlo , Morelli Giancarlo , Rosenman Gil
Published: March 2021

Fluorescence (FL) is a basic optical phenomenon that is widely used in molecular spectroscopy, high‐resolution microscopy, and bioimaging. It has exciting and emission spectra defined by an electronic structure of particular fluorochrome molecules. In this work, another type of FL is investigated. This FL phenomenon is observed both in biological amyloid and bioinspired amyloidogenic assemblies, folded into specific biomolecular β‐sheet secondary structure. A fine mechanism of this fold‐sensitive FL effect, arising at the earliest stages of seeding and nucleation of β‐sheet nanofibers, and its growth under thermally activated conformational refolding of helical to β‐sheet state in bioinspired ultrashort peptide structures are studied. This FL effect demonstrates different properties compared to the classical FL from non‐folded biomolecules or molecular dyes. Its excitation and emission spectra are similar in any β‐sheet peptide/protein assemblies irrespective of their biochemical composition, primary structure, and origin. It is shown that this fold‐sensitive FL effect exhibits a wideband spectrum, covering the entire visible region (400–650 nm), high quantum yield, and tunable FL wavelength. This research paves the way for advanced FL optical nanomaterials, for new methods of bioimaging and diagnostics as well as for the development of biocompatible nanoscale FL sources.
Non‐Toxic Glycosylated Gold Nanoparticle‐Amphotericin B Conjugates Reduce Biofilms and Intracellular Burden of Fungi and Parasites
Authors: Ghosh Chandradhish , Varela‐Aramburu Silvia , Eldesouky Hassan E. , Salehi Hossainy Sharareh , Seleem Mohamed N. , Aebischer Toni , Seeberger Peter H.
Published: March 2021

Infections by intracellular pathogens cause significant morbidity and mortality due to lack of efficient drug delivery. Amphotericin B, currently used to treat leishmaniasis and cryptococcosis, is very toxic and cannot eradicate intracellular Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans). Glycosylated gold nanoparticles are water dispersible and biocompatible with very little toxicity. While amphotericin B is insoluble in water at neutral pH, conjugates of amphotericin B and ultra‐small gold nanoparticles (AuNP) are better dispersible in water. Amphotericin B conjugated glycosylated gold nanoparticles (AmpoB@AuNP) are more efficacious in treating both extracellular and intracellular forms of Leishmania mexicana (L. mexicana) than amphotericin B alone. In addition, AmpoB@AuNP are effective in reducing C. neoformans biofilms by 80% and intracellular C. neoformans burden by >90%. Furthermore, AmpoB@AuNP are not haemolytic at 50 µg mL−1 and are significantly less toxic to murine macrophages than amphotericin B. Ultra‐small AuNPs are attractive delivery agents to treat intracellular infections and AmpoB@AuNP may be useful for treating C. neoformans infections in immunocompromised patients.
Thiazole‐Linked Covalent Organic Framework Promoting Fast Two‐Electron Transfer for Lithium‐Organic Batteries
Authors: Singh Vikram , Kim Jaewook , Kang Bora , Moon Joonhee , Kim Sujung , Kim Woo Youn , Byon Hye Ryung
Published: March 2021

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been considered a potentially versatile electrode structure if they are made highly conductive and flexible to stabilize the redox functionality. Although conceptually plausible, COF‐based electrodes have rarely satisfied high capacity, cyclability, and rate capability thus far. Incorporating thiazole moieties into the organic scaffold, it is able to fabricate π‐conjugated and crystalline organic electrodes and demonstrate the fast two‐electron transfer in one step using azo functionality. The thiazole‐linked COF electrode performed over 5000 cycles at 10 C and a high power density of ≈2800 W kg−1 is achieved thanks to excellent chemical stability and high out‐of‐plane electrical conductivity. For comparison, COFs carrying β‐ketoenamine and imine linkers underperform due to the lack of structural stability. In this study, it is demonstrated that the design of linkages in the COFs is key to stabilize the redox reaction and show the basic principles of building COF electrodes for high‐performance lithium‐organic batteries.
A Bimetallic Metal–Organic Framework Encapsulated with DNAzyme for Intracellular Drug Synthesis and Self‐Sufficient Gene Therapy
Authors: Wang Zhao , Niu Jingsheng , Zhao Chuanqi , Wang Xiaohui , Ren Jinsong , Qu Xiaogang
Published: March 2021

Although chemotherapy is one of the most widely used cancer treatments, there are serious side effects, drug resistance, and secondary metastasis. To address these problems, herein we designed a bimetallic metal–organic framework (MOF) encapsulated with DNAzyme for co‐triggered in situ cancer drug synthesis and DNAzyme‐based gene therapy. Once in cancer cells, MOFs would disassemble and liberate copper ions, zinc ions, and DNAzyme under the acidic environment of lysosomes. Copper ions can catalyze the synthesis of the chemotherapeutic drug through copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction after being reduced to CuI; zinc ions act as the cofactor to activate the cleavage activity of DNAzyme. The anticancer drug is synthesized intracellularly and can kill cancer cells on site to minimize side effects to normal organisms. The activated DNAzyme starts gene therapy to inhibit tumor proliferation and metastasis by targeting and cleaving oncogene substrates.
Redefining the Mechanistic Scenario of Carbon−Sulfur Nucleophilic Coupling via High‐Valent Cp*CoIV Species
Authors: López‐Resano Sara , Martínez de Salinas Sara , Garcés‐Pineda Felipe A. , Moneo‐Corcuera Andrea , Galán‐Mascarós José Ramón , Maseras Feliu , Pérez‐Temprano Mónica H.
Published: March 2021

The potential access to CoIV species for promoting transformations that are particularly challenging at CoIII still remains underexploited in the context of Cp*Co‐catalyzed C−H functionalization reactions. Herein, we disclose a combined experimental and computational strategy for uncovering the participation of Cp*CoIV species in a Cp*Co‐mediated C−S bond‐reductive elimination. These studies support the intermediacy of high‐valent Cp*Co species in C−H functionalization reactions, under oxidative conditions, when involving nucleophilic coupling partners.
Investigation on impact performance and dimensional stability of polypropylene composites in cryogenic environment
Authors: Nie Hui‐Jie , Zhang Yuan‐Jie , Yang Ya‐Ru , Guan Ji‐Peng , Li Hai‐Dong , Lin Ben‐Cai , Shen Xiao‐Jun
Published: March 2021

In order to expand the application of polypropylene (PP) composites in cryogenic environment, short carbon fiber (SCF) was used as the reinforcing phase and the surface of it was modified by graphene oxide (GO), and the maleic anhydride grafted PP (MAPP) was also used to enhance the interface compatibility between the fiber and the matrix. The effects of the GO‐modified SCF and the MAPP on the impact properties and dimensional stability of PP composites at cryogenic temperature (CT) (− 196°C) were investigated by systematic analysis of the interfacial properties and microstructure of the composites. The results show that the impact strength of the PP composites was effectively increased by 106.7% (CT) and 170.7% (room temperature), respectively, compared to pure PP. In addition, the transverse and longitudinal shrinkage of PP composites can be reduced to only 0.15% and 0.1%, respectively. The cryogenic impact strength and dimensional stability of PP composites has been greatly improved, which makes PP composites in the application under cryogenic environment is more promising.
A systematic review of the matrix training literature
Authors: Kemmerer Ashley R. , Vladescu Jason C. , Carrow Jacqueline N. , Sidener Tina M. , Deshais Meghan A.
Published: March 2021

The rapid acquisition and generality of skills are important considerations when developing teaching techniques in various educational settings. Acquiring skills without direct teaching reduces instructional time, improves efficiency, and saves money. These desirable outcomes can be achieved through generative instruction such as matrix training. Numerous studies have evaluated the effectiveness of the matrix training strategy, but there are several procedural variations in developing a matrix training procedure. The current literature requires a comprehensive review to determine what strategies are effective when arranging a matrix training procedure and directions for future research. The purpose of this literature review was to identify all of the studies that have used a matrix training approach to teach a skill. A total of 35 articles (containing 40 experiments) were identified and included in this review. The articles were coded according to several parameters including participant characteristics, dependent and independent variables, outcomes, maintenance, and social validity. The results of this review indicate the variation in implementation strategies employed during matrix training. Limitations of the current literature as well as directions for future research are discussed.
Berberine ameliorates neuronal AD‐like change via activating Pi3k/PGCε pathway
Authors: Wu Ninghua , Liu Wu , Wang Jiawen , Han Yanqi , Ye Yu , Liu Xiufen , Yu Yuandong , Chen Qingjie , Bao Yongfen , Liu Chao
Published: March 2021

IR (insulin resistance) in diabetic brain gave rise to the generation of toxic factor Aβ42 and axon collapse which were the marker of AD (Alzheimer's disease)‐like lesions in the circumstance of diabetes mellitus. But the underling molecular mechanism was not clear. Chronic HGHI (high glucose and high insulin) exposure accelerates IR has been reported in type II diabetes models. Berberine has been shown to promising effect for IR in vitro and in vivo. This study demonstrates the protective effect and the underlying mechanism of berberine on HGHI‐induced IR. HGHI‐induced cells were used to mimic the hyperinsulinemia resulting in IR. Berberine was used to uncover the mechanisms for the treatment of hyperinsulinemia in IR model. Morris water maze (MWM), PET imaging, CCK8 assay, ELISA assay, glucose kits, microscopy, and western blot analysis were performed to evaluate the protective effects of berberine. Berberine‐improved HGHI‐induced IR was correlated with the increase of glucose application in neurons. Meanwhile, the expressions of Pi3K, as well as GLUT3, PKCε, and APP were downregulated in the model, while p‐IRS Ser307 was upregulated compared with Normal group. Fortunately, these scenes were reversed by berberine administration. Furthermore, berberine decreased GSK3β Y216 expressions, inhibited the production of oligomer Aβ42 and extended neuronal axon. The monomeric berberine treatment improves IR that may be involved in glucose effective application, rectifying the related proteins of the aberrant insulin pathway. Additionally, it suppressed the generation of Aβ42 and ameliorated neuron axon damage. Finally, berberine improves DM (diabetes mellitus)‐induced cognitive impairment.
Lactoyl leucine and isoleucine are bioavailable alternatives for canonical amino acids in cell culture media
Authors: Schmidt Corinna , Wehsling Maria , Le Mignon Maxime , Wille Gregor , Rey Yannick , Schnellbaecher Alisa , Zabezhinsky Dmitry , Fischer Markus , Zimmer Aline
Published: March 2021

Increasing demands for protein‐based therapeutics such as monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, bispecific molecules, and antibody fragments require researchers to constantly find innovative solutions. To increase yields and decrease costs of next generation bioprocesses, highly concentrated cell culture media formulations are developed but often limited by the low solubility of amino acids such as tyrosine, cystine, leucine, and isoleucine, in particular at physiological pH. This study sought to investigate highly soluble and bioavailable derivatives of leucine and isoleucine that are applicable for fed‐batch processes. N‐lactoyl‐leucine and N‐lactoyl‐isoleucine sodium salts were tested in cell culture media and proved to be beneficial to increase the overall solubility of cell culture media formulations. These modified amino acids proved to be bioavailable for various Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and were suitable for replacement of canonical amino acids in cell culture feeds. The quality of the final recombinant protein was studied in bioprocesses using the derivatives, and the mechanism of cleavage was investigated in CHO cells. Altogether, both N‐lactoyl amino acids represent an advantageous alternative to canonical amino acids to develop highly concentrated cell culture media formulations to support next generation bioprocesses.
Zinc‐based Metal Organic Framework Derived From Anthracene and BODIPY Chromophores: Synthesis and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Gupta Gajendra , Kim Miyeon , Lee Junseong , Lee Chang Yeon
Published: March 2021

Luminescent metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as interesting materials due to their excellent photophysical and photochemical properties. Herein, we report the synthesis of a Zn‐based MOF AnDBP MOF derived from anthracenedicarboxylic ligand and dipyridyl boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) chromophore. The single‐crystal structure of AnDBP MOF showed a noninterpenetrated network structure with zinc metal binding the ligands in an octahedral fashion. The AnBDP MOF showed efficient energy transfer between the linkers and also displayed excellent photocatalytic properties.
Chemical Composition and Pharmacological Evaluation and of Toddalia asiatica (Rutaceae) Extracts and Essential Oil by in Vitro and in Silico Approaches.
Authors: Lobine Devina , Pairyanen Bryan , Zengin Gokhan , Yılmaz Mustafa Abdullah , Ouelbani Rayene , Bensari Souheir , Ak Gunes , Abdallah Hassan H. , Imran Muhammad , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi
Published: March 2021

Toddalia asiatica (L.) Lam. is extensively used in traditional medicinal systems by various cultures. Despite its frequent use in traditional medicine, there is still a paucity of scientific information on T. asiatica growing on the tropical island of Mauritius. Therefore, the present study was designed to appraise the pharmacological and phytochemical profile of extracts (methanol, ethyl acetate and water) and essential oil obtained from aerial parts of T. asiatica. Biological investigation involved the evaluation of in vitro antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory potentials. The chemical profile of the EO was determined using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis, while for the extracts, the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content were quantified as well as their individual phenolic compounds by LC/MS/MS. Quinic acid, fumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, quercitrin and isoquercitrin were the main compounds in the extracts. Highest total phenolic (82.5±0.94 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE/g)) and flavonoid (43.8±0.31 mg rutin equivalent (RE/g)) content were observed for the methanol extract. The GC/MS analysis has shown the presence of 26 compounds with linalool (30.9 %), linalyl acetate (20.9 %) and β‐phellandrene (7.9 %) being most abundant components in the EO. The extracts and EO showed notable antioxidant properties, with the methanol extract proved to be superior source of antioxidant compounds. Noteworthy anti‐acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and anti‐butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) effects were recorded for the tested samples, while only the methanol and ethyl acetate extracts were active against tyrosinase. With respect to antidiabetic effects, the extracts and EO were potent inhibitors of α‐glucosidase, while modest activity was recorded against α‐amylase. Docking results showed that linalyl acetate has the highest affinity to interact with the active site of BChE with docking score of −6.25 kcal/mol. The findings amassed herein act as a stimulus for further investigations of this plant as a potential source of bioactive compounds which can be exploited as phyto‐therapeutics.
Giant splenic abscess caused by Salmonella enterica
Authors: Mulita Francesk , Liolis Elias , Tchabashvili Levan , Seretis Fotios , Iliopoulos Fotios , Drakos Nikolas , Maroulis Ioannis , Vailas Michail
Published: March 2021

Splenectomy is the gold standard for treating a splenic abscess, when percutaneous drainage fails or is less likely to be successful.
Investigation of Various Metals on Hydrotalcite‐based Cu/Zn/Al Catalysts in Methanol Steam Reforming
Authors: Lin Jiachen , Hu Chaoquan , Xu Xuebing , Shao Mingyuan , Hu Yufeng , Ma Chuanchuan
Published: March 2021

The catalytic properties of hydrotalcite‐based Cu/Zn/Al mixed oxides prepared by the incipient co‐precipitation method, in which various metals were doped through impregnation, were comparatively tested in the steam reforming of methanol (SRM). In addition, the catalysts were characterized in detail by a series of follow‐up surface techniques. Moreover, strong interaction and synergism between Ru and Cu species noticeably promoted methanol conversion and improved catalytic performance. Furthermore, an SRM reaction mechanism is proposed that rationalizes the relationship between copper dispersion on the surface and the size of the copper/oxygen interface where formed intermediates rearrange.
Bubble Column CFD Model with Effects of Forced Oscillations on Bubble Dynamics
Authors: Sarhan Abd Alhamid Rafea , Karim M. Rezwanul , Naser Jamal
Published: March 2021

Bubble size distribution has a significant effect on gas holdup, residence time distribution, and mass transfer in bubble column reactors (BCRs). The occurrence of small gas bubbles has potential advantages such as a limited residence time distribution and perfect gas‐liquid phase contact. Gas‐liquid mass transfer in bubble columns can be significantly enhanced by subjecting the liquid phase to low‐frequency vibrations. However, the effect of vibration frequency on bubble formation and hydrodynamic characteristics in BCRs is still not well understood. Herein, a 3D numerical model of a BCR was developed to study the effect of vibration frequency on bubble dynamics under different operating conditions. The Sauter mean bubble diameter was found to be approximately inversely proportional to the vibration frequency.
Ceramic materials for energy conversion and storage: A perspective
Authors: Guillon Olivier
Published: March 2021

Advanced ceramic materials with tailored properties are at the core of established and emerging energy technologies. Applications encompass high‐temperature power generation, energy harvesting, and electrochemical conversion and storage. New opportunities for material design, the importance of processing and material integration, and the need for long‐term testing under realistic conditions are highlighted in the present perspective.