bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The efficiency of galvanic wastewater treatment facility 'Frad' in Aleksinac
Authors: Veličković Jasmina , Arsić Nebojša , Stošić Ljiljana
Published: December 2020

The technological process of Galvano-chemical protection, according to qualitatively-quantitative characteristics, represents one of the most complex contaminants in wastewater. A large number of contaminants (metal ions, cyanides, acids, bases, grease and oils, organic solvents, surfactants, phosphates, etc.), found in galvanic wastewater are treated through conventional methods (chemical oxidation and reduction, neutralization, sedimentation, coagulation and flocculation). The reason why galvanic wastewater treatment systems in the Republic of Serbia are conventional is of economic nature. The present study has been undertaken to evaluate the performance of Sewage Treatment Plant located at Aleksinac, Company of "Frad" district which is based on Sequential Batch Reactor process. Performance of this plant is an essential parameter to be monitored as the treated effluent is discharged into the Moravica River. The Performance Evaluation will also help for the better understanding of design and operating difficulties (aeration, blowers, etc.) in Sewage Treatment Plant. Research goal: The efficiency of sewage treatment plants can be illustrated by a study on the evaluation of pollutant levels of the influent and the effluent at the treatment plant of sewage treatment plants discharging into the environment.
L’immigration transnationale africaine francophone en milieu minoritaire et son impact sur l’intégration dans la société canadienne
Authors: Madibbo Amal
Published: December 2020

Cet article explore des pratiques transnationales d’immigrants africains francophones installés en Alberta et l’impact de ces pratiques sur leur intégration dans la société canadienne. En nous basant sur des analyses d’entrevues semi-dirigées et des théories qui portent sur l’intégration et de l’immigration transnationale, nous démontrons que l’immigration transnationale favorise l’intégration. L’on peut s’appuyer sur cette immigration pour contrer les inégalités, soutenir le développement et optimiser les relations entre le Canada et les pays d’origine. La conceptualisation de l’immigration transnationale devrait miser davantage sur son impact positif et il serait bénéfique de prévoir des moyens susceptibles de favoriser cet impact.
La pluralisation des espaces communautaires francophones en situation minoritaire : défis et opportunités pour l’intégration sociale et culturelle des immigrants
Authors: Veronis Luisa , Huot Suzanne
Published: December 2020

Quelle est la nature changeante des espaces communautaires francophones à la lumière des politiques récentes mettant l’accent sur l’immigration francophone ? Nous répondons à cette question en nous basant sur les résultats d’une étude comparative des villes de London et d’Ottawa, en Ontario. Premièrement, nous constatons que le maintien et la vitalité de ces espaces semblent être à risque du fait de la situation de précarité qu’ils affrontent actuellement ; deuxièmement, nous soulignons le pluralisme croissant des espaces communautaires francophones dans ces deux villes ontariennes. De façon générale, nous traitons trois thèmes principaux : le rôle de ces espaces et les opportunités qu’ils peuvent offrir, des enjeux d’invisibilité communautaire et les défis liés au maintien de ces espaces.
Mouvements migratoires pendulaires, trajectoires professionnelles et liens familiaux : le cas de la Nouvelle-Écosse en sourdine
Authors: Fontaine Louise
Published: December 2020

Les migrations internationales, qui transforment les sociétés sur l’ensemble de la planète, ont engendré de nouveaux questionnements. En reliant migrations, impératifs économiques et liens familiaux et sociaux, qu’observe-t-on ? Quelles sont les incidences de ces facteurs dans la société néo-écossaise ? Et plus particulièrement, que peut-on dégager en isolant le critère linguistique en contexte minoritaire francophone ? Cette note de recherche soulève des questions et explore des théories et des méthodes de recherche en les liant à un travail de terrain déjà réalisé et à venir.
De quoi le chiac est-il le nom? : une étude du parcours définitoire du chiac et de ses enjeux dans la littérature savante et de vulgarisation scientifique
Authors: Arrighi Laurence
Published: December 2020

À partir du cas exemplaire du chiac, l’objectif de cet article est de proposer une approche critique des opérations savantes que sont la définition et la catégorisation. En suivant la littérature scientifique consacrée au sujet sur quelque 25 ans, je mettrai en relief les multiples définitions, catégorisations et recatégorisations dont le chiac a fait l’objet. Il s’agit d’illustrer la nature labile de toute définition et le caractère construit de toute classification linguistique. Accessoirement, un texte de vulgarisation scientifique est présenté afin d’y observer, là encore, le travail de définition et de classification. Par ailleurs, ma contribution montre que la non-autonomie linguistique du chiac et l’utilisation d’éléments empruntés à une autre langue, même si cet usage est massif, même s’il est le fait d’un grand nombre d’individus, ne peuvent être interprétées de façon réductrice comme le signe d’une assimilation en cours de la communauté tout entière.
Deconstruyendo los 90: miradas críticas a la década prodigiosa
Authors: Pujol Cristina
Published: December 2020

La impugnación que hizo el 15M a la connivencia de las élites políticas, económicas y mediáticas de la Transición ha supuesto una revisión de los relatos e iconos de los 90, una década de esplendor que se va deconstruyendo desde diversos ámbitos y puntos de vista para intentar explicar nuestro presente y pensar alternativas futuras.
Ultrastructural comparison of dendritic spine morphology preserved with cryo and chemical fixation
Authors: Tamada Hiromi , Blanc Jerome , Korogod Natalya , Petersen Carl CH , Knott Graham W
Published: December 2020

Previously, we showed that cryo fixation of adult mouse brain tissue gave a truer representation of brain ultrastructure in comparison with a standard chemical fixation method (Korogod et al., 2015). Extracellular space matched physiological measurements, there were larger numbers of docked vesicles and less glial coverage of synapses and blood capillaries. Here, using the same preservation approaches, we compared the morphology of dendritic spines. We show that the length of the spine and the volume of its head is unchanged; however, the spine neck width is thinner by more than 30% after cryo fixation. In addition, the weak correlation between spine neck width and head volume seen after chemical fixation was not present in cryo-fixed spines. Our data suggest that spine neck geometry is independent of the spine head volume, with cryo fixation showing enhanced spine head compartmentalization and a higher predicted electrical resistance between spine head and parent dendrite.
A putative origin of the insect chemosensory receptor superfamily in the last common eukaryotic ancestor
Authors: Benton Richard , Dessimoz Christophe , Moi David
Published: December 2020

The insect chemosensory repertoires of Odorant Receptors (ORs) and Gustatory Receptors (GRs) together represent one of the largest families of ligand-gated ion channels. Previous analyses have identified homologous ‘Gustatory Receptor-Like’ (GRL) proteins across Animalia, but the evolutionary origin of this novel class of ion channels is unknown. We describe a survey of unicellular eukaryotic genomes for GRLs, identifying several candidates in fungi, protists and algae that contain many structural features characteristic of animal GRLs. The existence of these proteins in unicellular eukaryotes, together with ab initio protein structure predictions, provide evidence for homology between GRLs and a family of uncharacterized plant proteins containing the DUF3537 domain. Together, our analyses suggest an origin of this protein superfamily in the last common eukaryotic ancestor.
Distinctive plumage patterns enable individual recognition of the Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen
Authors: Kuruppu Ishini K. , Saunders Denis A.
Published: December 2020

We investigated whether the plumage patterns of the Australian Magpie Cracticus tibicen, a medium-sized, black and white bird, common over most of mainland Australia and Tasmania, including cities and towns, were sufficiently different and distinctive to allow humans to identify individual birds. Eighty participants took part in our pattern matching experiment to see how many of 10 photographs of individual birds they placed correctly below a panel showing 20 individual birds, each illustrated with three different photographs. Participants were from a range of ages, although the majority were high school students. All but two successfully matched some of the birds but there were considerable differences in accuracy and speed of performance. We tested differences in accuracy and time taken by participant, gender, age, and whether testing alone or testing at the same time as four other participants. We concluded that it is possible for humans to recognise individual Australian Magpies based on the birds’ plumage.
Antioxidant Capacity of Indigenous Root and Tuber Crops of Sri Lanka as Affected by Simple Processing
Authors: Rupasingha Poojanee , Ratnayake Kamani , Senarathne Anoma
Published: December 2020

The indigenous root and tuber crops in Sri Lanka have not been exploited by the food industry. With a view to establish their nutritional importance and promote consumption and industry usage, this study determined the contents of selected bio active compounds and antioxidant properties in 15 root and tuber crops varieties namely, Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, Canna indica (2 Selections), Dioscorea alata (6 varieties), D. bulbifera, D. esculenta, Maranta arundinacea and Xanthosoma sagittifolium (3 varieties), both in their raw and processed (boiled) forms. Antioxidant capacity (AOC) of yams was determined by Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) Assay and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) Radical Scavenging Assay. Total phenolics (TPC) and ascorbic acid contents (AAC) were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu method and 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol visual titration method, respectively. Chemical analyses were performed on triplicate samples. The AOC in the raw form ranged from 56 mg TE/g dry weight (D. bulbifera) to 30 mg TE/g dry weight (M. arundinaceae) while it showed a 0.4% (D. alata ‘Raja ala’) to 45% (D. alata ‘Hingurala’) decrease when boiled. The TPC in the raw form was highest in D. bulbifera (190.5 GAE; mg/100 g) while it was lowest in D. esculenta (6 mg/100 g). Dioscorea alata ‘Jaffna Rasawalli’ showed the highest loss (95%) of phenolics when subjected to boiling. The Xanthosoma sagittifolium varieties ‘Kiri ala’ and ‘Isuru’ had the highest AAC (12 mg/100 mg) in raw form while it was lowest (2 mg/100 mg) in M. arundinaceae.   D. bulbifera and X. sagittifolium ‘Kaha kiri ala’ retained relatively higher levels of antioxidants in their boiled forms. The contents of bioactive compounds in yams tended to decrease when subject to boiling. However, the degree of loss depended on the yam variety.  Further research should focus on developing processing technologies to minimize the loss of bioactive compounds in root and tuber crops.
Participants’ Feedback about and Knowledge before and after a Two-Day Medical Humanities Workshop at Mysuru, India
Authors: Shankar Pathiyil Ravi , Kulkarni Praveen
Published: December 2020

Background: Medical humanities is using subjects traditionally known as the humanities for specific purposes in education in medicine. A two-day medical humanities workshop was facilitated at JSS medical college, Mysuru, India on 9th and 10th March 2020.

Objectives: The authors obtained participant knowledge before and immediately post-conclusion of the workshop and their feedback regarding the workshop.

Methods: Participants’ knowledge was measured by asking them to answer true or false a set of twenty statements. Some statements were worded negatively, and their scores reversed when calculating the total score. Total scores pre and post-workshop were compared using appropriate statistical tests (p<0.05). Participant feedback about various facets of the workshop including venue, organization, facilitators, role-plays, activities related to paintings, home assignment, debate, and elicitation sessions were obtained. Free text comments were also invited. 

Results: Thirty-four medical students (15 male and 19 female) participated. Most students were from Karnataka and the neighbouring Kerala state. The median total scores before and immediately following the workshop were 16.00 and 17.00. The increase was highly significant (p<0.001). The mean student ratings of all parameters were 3.8 and above. Role-plays and debates were the most enjoyable. A greater range of activities and more involvement of students from other institutions were suggested. A few other topics were recommended.

Conclusions: Participant feedback was positive. They wanted similar workshops in the future.              The workshop could serve as a launchpad for a medical/health humanities module at the   institution.
Inverse Lomax-Exponentiated G (IL-EG) Family of Distributions: Properties and Applications
Authors: Falgore Jamilu Yunusa , Doguwa Sani Ibrahim
Published: December 2020

A new generator of continuous distributions called the Inverse Lomax-Exponentiated G family, which has three extra positive parameters is proposed. The structural properties of the new family that holds for any continuous baseline model including explicit density function expressions, moments, inequality measurements, moment generating function, reliability functions, Renyi and Shanon entropies, and distribution of order statistics are derived. A Monte Carlo simulation to test the efficiency of the maximum likelihood estimates is conducted. The application of the new sub-model to the two data sets using the maximum likelihood method indicates that the new model is better than the existing competitors.
An Assessment of the Benefits and Period of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Plant Growth Regulation and the Level of Fertilizer Influential Tomato Development (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Brahima Ouattara , Kouabenan Abo , Seydou Tuo , Nakpalo Silue , Abdoulaye Kone N’golo , Daouda Kone
Published: December 2020

Data on tomato fitness improvement by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) remain patchy. The present study was initiated to evaluate the effect of the period of AMF inoculation as well as the level of mineral manure on tomato growth. The experiment took place from June to October 2016, in the West African Science Service Center on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use greenhouse. AMF inocula were applied to seeds and/or transplants, each receiving three different levels of chemical fertilizer. The impact of the inoculation period and the level of fertilization, were assessed on plant growth parameters, including height, number of functional leaves, root-collar diameter, and root length. Observation of hyphae, arbuscules and vesicles was carried out by roots staining method and anabled the determination of mycorrhization parameters. Plants Mycorrhizal dependence was assessed with their fresh and dry mass. An analysis of variance and post ANOVA analysis was performed using the Newman-Keuls test (P= .05) for the comparison of means. The findings pointed that, when transplanting, the difference between mycorrhized plants and non-mycorrhized ones was very highly significant in terms of the height of the stem (P= .00), the length of the taproot, and the root collar diameter. The lower the level of manure was, the higher the frequency of infection has been (73.33% for MS1 and MSR1; 76.67% for MR1).Transplants growing without a supply of mineral manure expressed greater mycorrhizal dependence (66% for MSR1). Arbuscular mycorrhization of the tomato is profitable for its optimal development. The endomycorrhization of tomato can be done during sowing or transplanting with the same benefits but, with a low level of fertilizer. So, it’s necessary to controll the intake of mineral manure because it influences the natural mycorrhization of plants.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Infection with Soil Transmitted Helminths in Children from Bandjoun, the West Region of Cameroon
Authors: Nkouayep Vanessa Rosine , Nejsum Peter , Cleopas Dzune Fossouo Dirane , Nadia Noumedem Anangmo Christelle , Joël Atiokeng Tatang Rostand , Mbida Mpoame
Published: December 2020

Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) continue to be a public health problem in developing countries. In Bandjoun, annual deworming is usually administered to school-age children through the national programme for the control of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis in Cameroon. However, official data on the level of STH infections are scarce in this locality.

Methods: We investigated the prevalence and associated risk factors of STHs among children in Bandjoun with the intention to help design future intervention plans. We obtained demographic data and potential risk factors through the interview of children using a structured questionnaire. Stool samples from these children were collected and examined for helminth eggs using Willis’ technique.

Results: Three STHs were identified with an overall prevalence of 8.7%. These nematodes were Ascaris lumbricoides (8.3%), Trichuris trichiura (0.3%) and hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus) (0.7%). Failure to wash hands before meals (AOR: 2.152 [1.056-4.389]) was the main predictor associated with Ascaris infections. Not eating food picked up from the ground (AOR: 0.494 [0.261-0.937]) and not raising pigs at home (AOR: 0.109 [0.045-0.268]) reduced risk of infection.

Conclusion: We recommend that STHs control interventions in Bandjoun focus on the good management of domesticated pigs, the avoidance of contact with soil and handwashing from the earliest ages as a part of daily hygiene practice.
An Analysis of the Beef Production Industry and Marketing in Zambia
Authors: Sikamwaya Ray Munachoonga , Guiyu Zhao
Published: December 2020

This paper studies and provide a comprehensive and critical research by analyzing and evaluating the beef marketing channels, determine marketing efficiency, examine key social and economic factors contributing to the success and failure and establish the regional market interactions across the three agro-ecological regions in Zambia.

To achieve this, the research used both primary and secondary qualitative and quantitative data from national representative surveys by Rural Agricultural Livelihood Surveys Reports which were implemented by Indaba Agricultural Policy Research Institute, and the 2017/18 Livestock and Aquaculture Census Report by Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Central Statistics Office, and other relevant literature related to this study. A questionnaire was used in primary data collection through snowball sampling technique, physically asking, and observing cattle farmers, abattoirs, wholesalers, processing companies and various players or actors in the beef market. Thereafter, intermediation theory was applied to develop a conceptual framework, transaction cost analysis was used to understand how and why different supply channels develop, and finally market performance was determined by analyzing the level of marketing margins.

It was found that there are two major channels (Channel A and Channel B used by small-scale and commercial scale farmers respectively) which have channel subdivisions and several social and economic factors influence the farmers choice of marketing channel as well as influence consumer choices. Channel A was dominated by intermediaries while channel B be was vertically integrated. It was determined that all beef channels in Zambia were efficient and three major consumer types were observed and the regional market interactions showed that region I supplies both II and III, region II supplies III while region III is more of a consumer region.

This study will help to fully understand cattle producers marketing channel selection, consumer choice of market and product quality, regional market interactions and develops recommendations making available valuable information to farmers, beef traders, companies, and policy makers thereby has the potential to improving beef trade and markets in Zambia.
ABCB1/MDR1/P‐gp employs an ATP‐dependent twist‐and‐squeeze mechanism to export hydrophobic drugs
Authors: Kodan Atsushi , Futamata Ryota , Kimura Yasuhisa , Kioka Noriyuki , Nakatsu Toru , Kato Hiroaki , Ueda Kazumitsu
Published: December 2020

ABCB1, also called MDR1 or P‐glycoprotein, exports various hydrophobic compounds and plays an essential role as a protective physiological barrier in several organs, including the brain, testis, and placenta. However, little is known about the structural mechanisms that allow ABCB1 to recognize hydrophobic compounds of diverse structures or the coupling of ATP hydrolysis to uphill substrate export. High‐resolution X‐ray crystal structures of the pre‐ and post‐transport states and FRET analyses in living cells have revealed that an aromatic hydrophobic network at the top of the inner cavity is key for the conformational change in ABCB1 that is triggered by a hydrophobic substrate. ATP binding, but not hydrolysis, induces a progressive network that results in a twisting motion of the whole protein, squeezing out the substrate directly to the extracellular space. This twist‐and‐squeeze mechanism by which ABCB1 exports hydrophobic substrates is distinct from those of other transporters.
Altered Multisegment Ankle and Foot Kinematics During Gait in Patients With Hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos Syndrome/Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Vermeulen Stefan , De Mits Sophie , De Ridder Roel , Calders Patrick , De Schepper Joris , Malfait Fransiska , Rombaut Lies
Published: December 2020

Objective

Ankle‐foot problems have a considerable impact on daily functioning in patients with hypermobile Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorder (hEDS/HSD). Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify alterations in multisegment ankle and foot kinematics during gait and to assess foot function and pain in these patients.

Methods

Twenty‐three women with hEDS/HSD and 23 healthy controls participated in this 3‐dimensional gait analysis. Multisegment ankle and foot kinematics were collected using the Ghent Foot Model and analyzed with Statistical Parametric Mapping. Foot function and pain were assessed using visual analog scale scores, the Margolis Pain Diagram, and the Foot Function Index.

Results

Levels of pain and foot dysfunction were significantly higher in subjects with hEDS/HSD (P < 0.001). Kinematic curve analyses provide evidence for a hypermobile first ray, represented by a significantly increased eversion position of the medial forefoot during stance phase (P < 0.001) in subjects with hEDS/HSD compared to controls. In addition, significantly more dorsiflexion was found in the medial and lateral forefoot and the rearfoot (P < 0.001). At the midfoot, an increased plantar flexion (P < 0.001) and at the level of the hallux a decreased dorsiflexion (P = 0.037) and increased inversion (P < 0.001) and abduction (P = 0.016) were found in subjects with hEDS/HSD.

Conclusion

This study is the first to apply a multisegment foot model during gait in hEDS/HSD, which confirms the characteristic hypermobility throughout the foot, especially the hypermobile first ray.
Rituximab Versus Mycophenolate in the Treatment of Recalcitrant Connective Tissue Disease–Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Zhu Lisa , Chung Melody P. , Gagne Laurence , Guo Haiwei H. , Guenther Zachary , Li Shufeng , Jacobs Susan , Morisset Julie , Mooney Joshua J. , Raj Rishi , Chung Lorinda
Published: December 2020

Objective

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in connective tissue diseases (CTDs). We aimed to assess the effect of rituximab ± mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) compared with MMF on pulmonary function and prednisone dosage in patients with CTD‐related ILD (CTD‐ILD).

Methods

This retrospective study included 83 patients from Stanford and Centre Hospitalier de l’Universite de Montreal. Fifteen patients received rituximab ± MMF (rituximab group), and 68 patients received MMF only (control group).

Results

Median ILD duration at the start of treatment was longer in the rituximab group at 47 months (range: 4‐170) versus 6.5 months (range: 0‐164) in controls. Forced vital capacity (FVC) decreased by 3.0% (range: 11%‐21%) after treatment in the rituximab group, whereas it increased by 2.0% (range: 14%‐25%) in the control group (p = 0.025). Diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO) decreased by 3.0% (range: 10%‐12%) after treatment in the rituximab group, whereas it increased by 4.5% (range: 30%‐36%) in the control group (p = 0.046). Mixed model analysis controlling for ILD duration, baseline DLCO, systemic sclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and prednisone use showed no significant difference in FVC or DLCO between groups at 6 months or 1 year. The average daily prednisone dose score decreased after treatment in the rituximab group, whereas it remained unchanged in the control group (p = 0.017).

Conclusion

Rituximab ± MMF did not significantly change pulmonary function compared with MMF alone, but it did result in a relative decrease in average daily prednisone dose in a population with recalcitrant CTD‐ILD.
Mixed‐Metal MOF‐74 Templated Catalysts for Efficient Carbon Dioxide Capture and Methanation
Authors: Zurrer Timothy , Wong Kenneth , Horlyck Jonathan , Lovell Emma C. , Wright Joshua , Bedford Nicholas M. , Han Zhaojun , Liang Kang , Scott Jason , Amal Rose
Published: December 2020

The vast chemical and structural tunability of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are beginning to be harnessed as functional supports for catalytic nanoparticles spanning a range of applications. However, a lack of straightforward methods for producing nanoparticle‐encapsulated MOFs as efficient heterogeneous catalysts limits their usage. Herein, a mixed‐metal MOF, NiMg‐MOF‐74, is utilized as a template to disperse small Ni nanoclusters throughout the parent MOF. By exploiting the difference in NiO and MgO coordination bond strength, Ni2+ is selectively reduced to form highly dispersed Ni nanoclusters constrained by the parent MOF pore diameter, while Mg2+ remains coordinated in the framework. By varying the ratio of Ni to Mg in the parent MOF, accessible surface area and crystallinity can be tuned upon thermal treatment, influencing CO2 adsorption capacity and hydrogenation selectivity. The resulting Ni nanoclusters prove to be an active catalyst for CO2 methanation and are examined using extended X‐ray absorption fine structure and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. By preserving a segment of the Mg2+‐containing MOF framework, the composite system retains a portion of its CO2 adsorption capacity while continuing to deliver catalytic activity. The approach is thus critical for designing materials that can bridge the gap between carbon capture and CO2 utilization.
In‐Situ Electrochemically Activated Surface Vanadium Valence in V2C MXene to Achieve High Capacity and Superior Rate Performance for Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Ying , Jiang Yue , Hu Zhe , Peng Jian , Lai Weihong , Wu Dianlun , Zuo Shouwei , Zhang Jing , Chen Bin , Dai Ziwen , Yang Yingguo , Huang Yang , Zhang Wei , Zhao Wei , Zhang Wang , Wang Lei , Chou Shulei
Published: December 2020

Vanadium‐based materials are fascinating potential cathodes for high energy density Zn‐ion batteries (ZIBs), due to their high capacity arising from multi‐electron redox chemistry. Most vanadium‐based materials suffer from poor rate capability, however, owing to their low conductivity and large dimension. Here, we propose the application of V2C MXene (V2CTx), a conductive 2D nanomaterial, for achieving high energy density ZIBs with superior rate capability. Through an initial charging activation, the valence of surface vanadium in V2CTx cathode is raised significantly from V2+/V3+ to V4+/V5+, forming a nanoscale vanadium oxide (VOx) coating that effectively undergoes multi‐electron reactions, whereas the inner V‐C‐V 2D multi‐layers of V2CTx are intentionally preserved, providing abundant nanochannels with intrinsic high conductivity. Owing to the synergistic effects between the outer high‐valence VOx and inner conductive V‐C‐V, the activated V2CTx presents an ultrahigh rate performance, reaching 358 mAh g−1 at 30 A g−1, together with remarkable energy and power density (318 Wh kg−1/22.5 kW kg−1). The structural advantages of activated V2CTx are maintained after 2000 cycles, offering excellent stability with nearly 100% Coulombic efficiency. This work provides key insights into the design of high‐performance cathode materials for advanced ZIBs.
Inorganic Nanoparticles Applied as Functional Therapeutics
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Kim Yu‐Jin , Im Gwang‐Bum , Zhu Jintao , Wu Yuzhou , Liu Yijing , Bhang Suk Ho
Published: December 2020

Inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) offer significant advantages to the biomedical field owing to their large surface area, controllable structures, diverse surface chemistry, and unique optical and physical properties. Researchers worldwide have shown that inorganic NPs and the released metal ions can act as therapeutic agents in targeted tissues or to cure various diseases without acute toxicity. In this progress report, the recent developments in inorganic NPs with different compositions directly used as therapeutics are discussed. First, the recent convergence of nanotechnology and biotechnology in biomedical applications as well as the unique functions, features, and advantages of inorganic NPs in biomedical applications are summarized. Thereafter, the biological effects of inorganic compositions in NPs which include balancing the intracellular redox environment, regulating the specific cellular signaling and cellular behaviors, and apoptosis are explained. In addition, the emerging therapeutic applications of inorganic NPs in various diseases are exemplified. Finally, the perspectives and challenges for overcoming the weaknesses of inorganic NPs as therapeutics are discussed. By carefully considering and investigating the biological effects of inorganic NPs and metal ions released from NPs, more promising inorganic NPs based therapeutic agents can be developed.
0D/2D Heterostructures Vertical Single Electron Transistor
Authors: Mouafo Louis Donald Notemgnou , Godel Florian , Simon Laurent , Dappe Yannick J. , Baaziz Walid , Noumbé Ulrich Nguétchuissi , Lorchat Etienne , Martin Marie‐Blandine , Berciaud Stéphane , Doudin Bernard , Ersen Ovidiu , Dlubak Bruno , Seneor Pierre , Dayen Jean‐Francois
Published: December 2020

Mixed‐dimensional heterostructures formed by the stacking of 2D materials with nanostructures of distinct dimensionality constitute a new class of nanomaterials that offers multifunctionality that goes beyond those of single dimensional systems. An unexplored architecture of single electron transistor (SET) is developed that employs heterostructures made of nanoclusters (0D) grown on a 2D molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) channel. Combining the large Coulomb energy of the nanoclusters with the electronic capabilities of the 2D layer, the concept of 0D–2D vertical SET is unveiled. The MoS2 underneath serves both as a charge tunable channel interconnecting the electrode, and as bottom electrode for each v‐SET cell. In addition, its atomic thickness makes it thinner than the Debye screening length, providing electric field transparency functionality that allows for an efficient electric back gate control of the nanoclusters charge state. The Coulomb diamond pattern characteristics of SET are reported, with specific doping dependent nonlinear features arising from the 0D/2D geometry that are elucidated by theoretical modeling. These results hold promise for multifunctional single electron device taking advantage of the versatility of the 2D materials library, with as example envisioned spintronics applications while coupling quantum dots to magnetic 2D material, or to ferroelectric layers for neuromorphic devices.
Multiple Pathways for Pathological Calcification in the Human Body
Authors: Vidavsky Netta , Kunitake Jennie A. M. R. , Estroff Lara A.
Published: December 2020

Biomineralization of skeletal components (e.g., bone and teeth) is generally accepted to occur under strict cellular regulation, leading to mineral–organic composites with hierarchical structures and properties optimized for their designated function. Such cellular regulation includes promoting mineralization at desired sites as well as inhibiting mineralization in soft tissues and other undesirable locations. In contrast, pathological mineralization, with potentially harmful health effects, can occur as a result of tissue or metabolic abnormalities, disease, or implantation of certain biomaterials. This progress report defines mineralization pathway components and identifies the commonalities (and differences) between physiological (e.g., bone remodeling) and pathological calcification formation pathways, based, in part, upon the extent of cellular control within the system. These concepts are discussed in representative examples of calcium phosphate‐based pathological mineralization in cancer (breast, thyroid, ovarian, and meningioma) and in cardiovascular disease. In‐depth mechanistic understanding of pathological mineralization requires utilizing state‐of‐the‐art materials science imaging and characterization techniques, focusing not only on the final deposits, but also on the earlier stages of crystal nucleation, growth, and aggregation. Such mechanistic understanding will further enable the use of pathological calcifications in diagnosis and prognosis, as well as possibly provide insights into preventative treatments for detrimental mineralization in disease.
Trends in Micro‐/Nanorobotics: Materials Development, Actuation, Localization, and System Integration for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Wang Ben , Kostarelos Kostas , Nelson Bradley J. , Zhang Li
Published: December 2020

Micro‐/nanorobots (m‐bots) have attracted significant interest due to their suitability for applications in biomedical engineering and environmental remediation. Particularly, their applications in in vivo diagnosis and intervention have been the focus of extensive research in recent years with various clinical imaging techniques being applied for localization and tracking. The successful integration of well‐designed m‐bots with surface functionalization, remote actuation systems, and imaging techniques becomes the crucial step toward biomedical applications, especially for the in vivo uses. This review thus addresses four different aspects of biomedical m‐bots: design/fabrication, functionalization, actuation, and localization. The biomedical applications of the m‐bots in diagnosis, sensing, microsurgery, targeted drug/cell delivery, thrombus ablation, and wound healing are reviewed from these viewpoints. The developed biomedical m‐bot systems are comprehensively compared and evaluated based on their characteristics. The current challenges and the directions of future research in this field are summarized.
Finding the Next Superhard Material through Ensemble Learning
Authors: Zhang Ziyan , Mansouri Tehrani Aria , Oliynyk Anton O. , Day Blake , Brgoch Jakoah
Published: December 2020

An ensemble machine‐learning method is demonstrated to be capable of finding superhard materials by directly predicting the load‐dependent Vickers hardness based only on the chemical composition. A total of 1062 experimentally measured load‐dependent Vickers hardness data are extracted from the literature and used to train a supervised machine‐learning algorithm utilizing boosting, achieving excellent accuracy (R2 = 0.97). This new model is then tested by synthesizing and measuring the load‐dependent hardness of several unreported disilicides and analyzing the predicted hardness of several classic superhard materials. The trained ensemble method is then employed to screen for superhard materials by examining more than 66 000 compounds in crystal structure databases, which show that 68 known materials have a Vickers hardness ≥40 GPa at 0.5 N (applied force) and only 10 exceed this mark at 5 N. The hardness model is then combined with the data‐driven phase diagram generation tool to expand the limited number of reported high hardness compounds. Eleven ternary borocarbide phase spaces are studied, and more than ten thermodynamically favorable compositions with a hardness above 40 GPa (at 0.5 N) are identified, proving this ensemble model's ability to find previously unknown materials with outstanding mechanical properties.
Sub‐Picosecond Response Time of a Hybrid VO2:Silicon Waveguide at 1550 nm
Authors: Hallman Kent A. , Miller Kevin J. , Baydin Andrey , Weiss Sharon M. , Haglund Richard F.
Published: December 2020

Hybrid material systems are a promising approach for extending the capabilities of silicon photonics. Given the weak electro‐optic and thermo‐optic effects in silicon, there is intense interest in integrating an ultrafast‐switching phase‐change material with a large refractive index contrast into the waveguide, such as vanadium dioxide (VO2). It is well established that the phase transition in VO2 thin films can be triggered by ultrafast, 800 nm laser pulses, and that pump‐laser fluence is a critical determinant of the recovery time of thin films irradiated by femtosecond pulses. However, thin‐film experiments are not reliable guides to a VO2:Si system for all‐optical, on‐chip switching because of the differences in VO2 optical constants in the telecommunication band, and the complex sample geometry and alignment issues in a waveguide geometry. This paper reports the first demonstration that the reversible, ultrafast photoinduced phase transition in VO2 can achieve sub‐picosecond response when small VO2 volumes are integrated into a silicon waveguide as the active element. The result suggests that VO2 can be pursued as a strong candidate for waveguide switching with sub‐picosecond on‐off times.
Materials, Devices, and Systems of On‐Skin Electrodes for Electrophysiological Monitoring and Human–Machine Interfaces
Authors: Wu Hao , Yang Ganguang , Zhu Kanhao , Liu Shaoyu , Guo Wei , Jiang Zhuo , Li Zhuo
Published: December 2020

On‐skin electrodes function as an ideal platform for collecting high‐quality electrophysiological (EP) signals due to their unique characteristics, such as stretchability, conformal interfaces with skin, biocompatibility, and wearable comfort. The past decade has witnessed great advancements in performance optimization and function extension of on‐skin electrodes. With continuous development and great promise for practical applications, on‐skin electrodes are playing an increasingly important role in EP monitoring and human–machine interfaces (HMI). In this review, the latest progress in the development of on‐skin electrodes and their integrated system is summarized. Desirable features of on‐skin electrodes are briefly discussed from the perspective of performances. Then, recent advances in the development of electrode materials, followed by the analysis of strategies and methods to enhance adhesion and breathability of on‐skin electrodes are examined. In addition, representative integrated electrode systems and practical applications of on‐skin electrodes in healthcare monitoring and HMI are introduced in detail. It is concluded with the discussion of key challenges and opportunities for on‐skin electrodes and their integrated systems.
AZD9291 Resistance Reversal Activity of a pH‐Sensitive Nanocarrier Dual‐Loaded with Chloroquine and FGFR1 Inhibitor in NSCLC
Authors: Gu Yu , Lai Songtao , Dong Yang , Fu Hao , Song Liwei , Chen Tianxiang , Duan Yourong , Zhang Zhen
Published: December 2020

AZD9291 can effectively prolong survival of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Unfortunately, the mechanism of its acquired drug resistance is largely unknown. This study shows that autophagy and fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 signaling pathways are both activated in AZD9291 resistant NSCLC, and inhibition of them, respectively, by chloroquine (CQ) and PD173074 can synergistically reverse AZD9291 resistance. Herein, a coloaded CQ and PD173074 pH‐sensitive shell–core nanoparticles CP@NP‐cRGD is developed to reverse AZD9291 resistance in NSCLC. CP@NP‐cRGD has a high encapsulation rate and stability, and can effectively prevent the degradation of drugs in circulation process. CP@NP‐cRGD can target tumor cells by enhanced permeability and retention effect and the cRGD peptide. The pH‐sensitive CaP shell can realize lysosome escape and then release drugs successively. The combination of CP@NP‐cRGD and AZD9291 significantly induces a higher rate of apoptosis, more G0/G1 phase arrest, and reduces proliferation of resistant cell lines by downregulation of p‐ERK1/2 in vitro. CQ in CP@NP‐cRGD can block protective autophagy induced by both AZD9291 and PD173074. CP@NP‐cRGD combined with AZD9291 shows adequate tumor enrichment, low toxicity, and excellent antitumor effect in nude mice. It provides a novel multifunctional nanoparticle to overcome AZD9291 resistance for potential clinical applications.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging‐Compatible Optically Powered Miniature Wireless Modular Lorentz Force Actuators
Authors: Mutlu Senol , Yasa Oncay , Erin Onder , Sitti Metin
Published: December 2020

Minimally invasive medical procedures under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance have significant clinical promise. However, this potential has not been fully realized yet due to challenges regarding MRI compatibility and miniaturization of active and precise positioning systems inside MRI scanners, i.e., restrictions on ferromagnetic materials and long conductive cables and limited space around the patient for additional instrumentation. Lorentz force‐based electromagnetic actuators can overcome these challenges with the help of very high, axial, and uniform magnetic fields (3–7 Tesla) of the scanners. Here, a miniature, MRI‐compatible, and optically powered wireless Lorentz force actuator module consisting of a solar cell and a coil with a small volume of 2.5 × 2.5 × 3.0 mm3is proposed. Many of such actuator modules can be used to create various wireless active structures for future interventional MRI applications, such as positioning needles, markers, or other medical tools on the skin of a patient. As proof‐of‐concept prototypes toward such applications, a single actuator module that bends a flexible beam, four modules that rotate around an axis, and six modules that roll as a sphere are demonstrated inside a 7 Tesla preclinical MRI scanner.
Device Performance of Emerging Photovoltaic Materials (Version 1)
Authors: Almora Osbel , Baran Derya , Bazan Guillermo C. , Berger Christian , Cabrera Carlos I. , Catchpole Kylie R. , Erten‐Ela Sule , Guo Fei , Hauch Jens , Ho‐Baillie Anita W. Y. , Jacobsson T. Jesper , Janssen Rene A. J. , Kirchartz Thomas , Kopidakis Nikos , Li Yongfang , Loi Maria A. , Lunt Richard R. , Mathew Xavier , McGehee Michael D. , Min Jie , Mitzi David B. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad K. , Nelson Jenny , Nogueira Ana F. , Paetzold Ulrich W. , Park Nam‐Gyu , Rand Barry P. , Rau Uwe , Snaith Henry J. , Unger Eva , Vaillant‐Roca Lídice , Yip Hin‐Lap , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: December 2020

Emerging photovoltaics (PVs) focus on a variety of applications complementing large scale electricity generation. Organic, dye‐sensitized, and some perovskite solar cells are considered in building integration, greenhouses, wearable, and indoor applications, thereby motivating research on flexible, transparent, semitransparent, and multi‐junction PVs. Nevertheless, it can be very time consuming to find or develop an up‐to‐date overview of the state‐of‐the‐art performance for these systems and applications. Two important resources for recording research cells efficiencies are the National Renewable Energy Laboratory chart and the efficiency tables compiled biannually by Martin Green and colleagues. Both publications provide an effective coverage over the established technologies, bridging research and industry. An alternative approach is proposed here summarizing the best reports in the diverse research subjects for emerging PVs. Best performance parameters are provided as a function of the photovoltaic bandgap energy for each technology and application, and are put into perspective using, e.g., the Shockley–Queisser limit. In all cases, the reported data correspond to published and/or properly described certified results, with enough details provided for prospective data reproduction. Additionally, the stability test energy yield is included as an analysis parameter among state‐of‐the‐art emerging PVs.
Elevating the Voices of Girls in Custody for Improved Treatment and Systemic Change in the Juvenile Justice System
Authors: Reed Lauren A. , Sharkey Jill D. , Wroblewski Althea
Published: December 2020

The U.S. juvenile justice system does not meet the needs of girls in custody, and often fails to address girls’ symptoms of trauma and high rates of sexual exploitation histories. As the system shifts away from punitive detention to a trauma‐informed approach with community‐based services, community psychologists and other helping professionals can help center the needs and experiences of girls in custody. As part of a multi‐year collaboration, our research team created a confidential youth advisory process in one juvenile detention center (JDC). We acted as liaisons between the girls in custody and JDC administrators, reporting girls’ feedback to agencies at monthly meetings. Participant confidentiality, safety, and consent were priorities. The girls’ feedback, which was conceptualized within a System Responsiveness and hierarchy of needs framework, led JDC probation and mental health staff to improve services (e.g., better laundry system, longer showers, warmer food), climate (e.g., consistent reward system, confidentiality of grievances), and treatment (e.g., increase focus on gender and culture) to reduce the trauma of incarceration among girls in custody. Girls’ feedback also catalyzed systemic change that led to a reduction in the JDC population in favor of wraparound community‐based services better suited to meet girls’ needs. Implications for community psychology values and the juvenile justice system, including the benefits and challenges of this type of collaboration, are discussed.
Autosomal dominant early onset Alzheimer's disease in the Mexican state of Jalisco: High frequency of the mutation PSEN1 c.1292C>A and phenotypic profile of patients
Authors: Dumois‐Petersen Sofia , Gallegos‐Arreola Martha P. , Magaña‐Torres María T. , Perea‐Díaz Francisco J. , Ringman John M. , Figuera Luis E.
Published: December 2020

Mutations in three genes (APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2) are the main cause of the autosomal dominant early‐onset Alzheimer's disease (AD‐EOAD). In PSEN1, the A431E (c.1292C>A, rs63750083) mutation is suspected to have exerted a founder effect in the State of Jalisco, Mexico. In Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, this mutation was found in 46 index cases evaluated for AD‐EOAD. In our genealogical analysis, 301 affected relatives of the mutation carriers were identified, 195 of whom were already deceased at the time of interview. Moreover, 560 descendants had a 50% risk of carrying the mutation, and 348 were potentially at risk. A systematic phenotyping was performed in 39 patients. The mean onset age was 42.5 ± 3.9 years, and no significant difference in onset age was observed between the male and female patients. Furthermore, a substantial clinical heterogeneity and high frequencies of spastic paraparesis, language disorders, and neuropsychiatric symptoms were observed. To our knowledge, the investigated families represent the second biggest population carrying a PSEN1 mutation in Latin America, offering a unique opportunity to study the genetic basis of Alzheimer's disease. Addressing AD‐EOAD warrants an integral approach involving a deep understanding of its clinical behavior, as well as counseling protocols and prevention studies.