bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering and Design for Lean Shipbuilding– the practical case
Authors: Neuvéglise Stéphane
Published: August 2021

Minimising timescale, cost and risk in today’s increasingly complex, time-constrained and multi-location marine projects requires tight control of highly change-intensive, iterative engineering and design processes.

This paper describes how AVEVA’s Integrated Engineering & Design for Lean Shipbuilding approach supports this by enabling users to collaboratively control and communicate change, to work more efficiently and to increase the quality of project data and deliverables. The principles of Engineering & Design for Lean Shipbuilding will be illustrated with two use cases, emphasising the business drivers for each and the benefits in data consistency, reduced rework and accelerated delivery.
Swage panel Analyses: Effective Orthotropic and Laminated Plate Properties
Authors: Garr Dale G. , Ashcroft Frederick H.
Published: August 2021

Analytical expressions for the effective elastic properties of orthotropic, and laminated plates are presented for represented for representing swage panel subjected to extension and bending. A methodology is described for analyzing the swaged panels as effective, orthotropic flat plates. The equivalent rigidities of the laminated plating are established by matching the in-plane and flexural stiffness of the swage panel with those of the laminated plate. The required properties of the effective plating include the dependent Young’s modulii, shear modulus and Poisson’s ratios for each layer of a multi-layered elastic laminate. Three-ply and five-ply models are developed. This methodology allows for the use of well-known plate theory equations or assessing plate strength and stability. It also allows for the use of large-scale finite element modeling of the panels within conventional simulation packages such as those used for whole-ship structural modeling. The advantage in this analytical approach is to avoid the need for modeling the detailed, fine-scaled swage shell geometry in finite element analyses.
A Framework Addressing Major Accident Risk in the Maritime Industry
Authors: Astrup Ole C. , Wahlstrøm Anne M. , King Tobias
Published: August 2021

Avoiding accidents and ensuring the safety of on-board personnel represents one of the most complex challenges faced by the maritime industry. A common misunderstanding in the industry has led to a focus on occupational accidents to reduce lost time injuries in the belief that this would also lead to a reduction of major accidents. The complexity related to preventing and mitigating major accidents requires an understanding of the differences in occupational risk compared to major accident risk. An ever increasing complexity in systems and operations calls for increased vigilance with regards to safety. Rather than focusing on individual components, the industry would benefit by embracing a more comprehensive approach to safety, one that establishes effective barriers that prevent or mitigate the impact of accidents. The oil & gas industry has a long experience in handling complex operations and major accident hazards and offshore vessels can document significant lower incident rates than conventional merchant vessels. Introducing the concept of barrier management from the oil & gas industry to the maritime industry can provide the framework this industry needs to better manage major accident hazards.
Adhesives in Shipbuilding
Authors: Horsmon Albert W.
Published: August 2021

Shipbuilding processes usually concentrate on cutting, treating, forming, fitting, welding and painting steel plate for the primary structures of ships. There is no doubt welding is the joining process of choice for primary steel ship structures, but adhesives are gaining ground for non-critical, secondary attachments and temporary attachments used in the shipbuilding process. NSRP Report 0528 investigated the used of adhesives to reduce the number and effects of welded temporary attachments. Since then, advances in adhesive chemical and processing technology opens up many additional applications, so the field warrants a refreshed examination.
Early Palliative Care for Oncology Patients: How APRNs Can Take the Lead
Authors: Mason, DNP, ACNP-BC Heidi , DeRubeis, MSN, FNP-BC Mary Beth , Hesseltine, MSN, FNP-C Beth
Published: August 2021

Background: Patients with cancer need expert and multidisciplinary care throughout the trajectory of their illness. Palliative care should be instituted early in the course of their disease. Early palliative care enables patients and their families to control physical, psychological, social, and spiritual symptoms of the disease. In our current health-care system, early palliative care is not being integrated due to a lack of education of providers and nurses, an infrastructure that does not support palliative medicine, and poor communication skills among practitioners. Methods and Results: The Palliative Care Quiz for Nursing (PCQN) completed by nurse practitioners at a large Midwest cancer center found that those nurse practitioners had a poor understanding of the basic precepts of palliative care. This is consistent with the current literature. Conclusion: Advanced practice nurses should be educated on the principles of palliative care, as they are perfectly situated to advance the integration of early palliative care in the oncology setting.
Reassessing the Net Benefit of Cancer Drugs With Evolution of Evidence Using the ASCO Value Framework
Authors: Delos Santos Seanthel , Witzke Noah , Gyawali Bishal , Arciero Vanessa Sarah , Rahmadian Amanda Putri , Everest Louis , Cheung Matthew C. , Chan Kelvin K.
Published: August 2021

Background: Regulatory approval of oncology drugs is often based on interim data or surrogate endpoints. However, clinically relevant data, such as long-term overall survival and quality of life (QoL), are often reported in subsequent publications. This study evaluated the ASCO-Value Framework (ASCO-VF) net health benefit (NHB) at the time of approval and over time as further evidence arose. Methods: FDA-approved oncology drug indications from January 2006 to December 2016 were reviewed to identify clinical trials scorable using the ASCO-VF. Subsequent publications of clinical trials relevant for scoring were identified (until December 2019). Using ASCO-defined thresholds (≤40 for low and ≥45 for substantial benefit), we assessed changes in classification of benefit at 3 years postapproval. Results: Fifty-five eligible indications were included. At FDA approval, 40.0% were substantial, 10.9% were intermediate, and 49.1% were low benefit. We then identified 90 subsequent publications relevant to scoring, including primary (28.9%) and secondary endpoint updates (47.8%), safety updates (31.1%), and QoL reporting (47.8%). There was a change from initial classification of benefit in 27.3% of trials (10.9% became substantial, 9.1% became low, and 7.3% became intermediate). These changes were mainly due to updated hazard ratios (36.4%), toxicities (56.4%), new tail-of-the-curve bonus (9.1%), palliation bonus (14.5%), or QoL bonus (18.2%). Overall, at 3 years postapproval, 40.0% were substantial, 9.1% were intermediate, and 50.9% were low benefit. Conclusions: Because there were changes in classification for more than one-quarter of indications, in either direction, reassessing the ASCO-VF NHB as more evidence becomes available may be beneficial to inform clinical shared decision-making. On average, there was no overall improvement in the ASCO-VF NHB with longer follow-up and evolution of evidence.
Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neurotoxicity in Cancer Survivors: Predictors of Long-Term Patient Outcomes
Authors: Battaglini Eva , Goldstein David , Grimison Peter , McCullough Susan , Mendoza-Jones Phil , Park Susanna B.
Published: August 2021

Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) is a major adverse effect of cancer treatment. However, its impact remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the impact associated with CIPN on the lives of cancer survivors. Patients and Methods: A volunteer sample of 986 individuals who had received neurotoxic chemotherapy completed an anonymous, cross-sectional survey. Outcomes assessed included CIPN symptoms, pain, neuropathic pain, quality of life (QoL), physical activity, and comorbid health conditions via the Self-Administered Comorbidity Questionnaire. Results: Respondents had a mean age of 58 years (SD, 10.7), and 83.2% were female. Most were treated for breast (58.9%) or colorectal cancer (13.5%); had received docetaxel (32.7%), paclitaxel (31.6%), or oxaliplatin (12.5%); and had completed treatment 3.6 ± 3.5 years previously. We found that 76.5% of respondents reported current CIPN. Respondents reporting severe CIPN had poorer QoL, more comorbidities, and higher body mass index, and more often received multiple neurotoxic chemotherapies than those with mild CIPN. Respondents who completed the survey ≤1 year after completing chemotherapy did not differ in reported CIPN or pain compared with respondents who completed chemotherapy ≥6 years earlier. However, respondents who completed chemotherapy ≥6 years earlier reported better QoL. Multivariable linear regression analyses revealed predictors of CIPN severity as follows: F(7, 874) = 64.67; P<.001; R2 = 0.34, including pain (β = −0.36; P<.001), burning pain (β = 0.25; P<.001), sex (male sex associated with greater CIPN: β = 0.14; P<.001), years since completing chemotherapy (shorter time associated with greater CIPN; β = −0.10; P<.001), age (β = 0.80; P=.006), number of comorbid conditions (β = 0.07; P=.02), and body mass index (β = 0.07; P=.02). Conclusions: Respondents with a high CIPN symptom burden experienced poorer general health and QoL. Improvements in CIPN may be more likely soon after treatment. However, improvements in QoL may occur over time in those with chronic symptoms. CIPN seems to have lasting impacts on cancer survivors, and understanding risk factors is important to enable the design of further preventive and therapeutic management strategies.
Escenarios de participación de la infancia.
Authors: Novella Cámara Ana María , Mateos Blanco Tania , Crespo i Torres Ferran , López González Aitor
Published: August 2021

Los nuevos marcos de gobernanza requieren una ciudadanía inclusiva desde donde conceptualizar y planificar la participación local. En el caso de la infancia y la adolescencia, la participación ciudadana se desarrolla en escenarios promovidos a nivel institucional o por ellos mismos como colectivo organizado. Estos escenarios favorecen procesos de coproducción desde acciones que inciden en la política municipal. De una parte, este trabajo persigue explorar la densidad de escenarios de participación que existen en los municipios, así como las variables que definen la existencia de uniescenarios y multiescenarios. Por otra parte, pretende caracterizar los tres escenarios de participación infantil y adolescente para la coproducción municipal. Se ha llevado a cabo un estudio de carácter exploratorio y descriptivo a partir de un muestreo bietápico por conglomerados. Para la recogida de información se ha realizado una encuesta autoadministrada en línea a 176 figuras técnicas municipales. El proceso de análisis empleado ha sido para los datos cuantitativos mediante el software estadístico SPSS V. 25 y para los datos textuales por una combinatoria de dos técnicas: análisis multidimensional mediante el software Iramuteq y un análisis de contenido. Los resultados ponen de manifiesto que los municipios con mayor densidad de escenarios de participación se caracterizan por estar más habitados, tener un mayor recorrido en políticas participativas y/o una mayor dedicación técnica, siendo el escenario dominante el órgano municipal. La forma de participación que predomina en los tres escenarios es la consultiva, seguida de la proyectiva, según se identifica en las acciones que caracterizan a cada escenario. Las conclusiones evidencian la necesidad de amplificar el número de escenarios que conviven y aportan y de que en estos se establezcan cinco niveles de coproducción de las infancias: sensibilización y concienciación; promoción, defensa y atención; diagnóstica; organizativa; y estratégica o macropolítica.
Análisis y validación de un Test para medir Valores (TVA_ Adaptado)
Authors: González-Gijón Gracia , Gervilla Castillo Enrique , Martínez Heredia Nazaret , Soriano Díaz Andrés
Published: August 2021

El objetivo del presente artículo es revisar y adaptar un instrumento creado para conocer la jerarquía de valores en los jóvenes a partir de 11 categorías que recogen la integridad de las dimensiones de la persona. El proceso ha consistido en la validación de contenido a través de un juicio de expertos con el análisis crítico de cada ítem y el grado de acuerdo entre jueces mediante el Coeficiente de Concordancia W de Kendall y la validación de constructo por medio del análisis factorial. Por último, se midió la consistencia interna de los ítems mediante el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach. La muestra utilizada es de 651 jóvenes seleccionada a través de un muestreo aleatorio por conglomerados. Los resultados muestran valores indicativos de concordancia entre los jueces expertos, la diferenciación de los 11 dimensiones que coinciden con las propuestas en el constructo teórico y altos niveles de fiabilidad en cada una de las dimensiones. El estudio psicométrico ha dado como resultado la versión definitiva del instrumento.
Dynamiques interactionnelles : liens réciproques entre le soutien émotionnel et l’engagement de l’enfant à l’éducation préscolaire cinq ans
Authors: Breton Nathalie , Bouchard Caroline , Henry Jeffrey
Published: August 2021

L’objectif de cet article est d’étudier les liens réciproques entre le soutien émotionnel et l’engagement (positif et négatif) de l’enfant envers son enseignant·e et celui envers ses pairs à l’éducation préscolaire cinq ans. Douze enseignantes et 113 enfants ont été observé·e·s en classe. Un niveau modéré de soutien émotionnel et des niveaux moyens-faibles d’engagement de l’enfant ont été relevés. Seul le soutien émotionnel offert a permis de prédire l’engagement positif de l’enfant envers ses pairs. Ces résultats soulignent l’importance de poursuivre l’étude des dynamiques interactionnelles en classe.
PEASANT STUDIES AS A KEY DIRECTION OF AGRARIAN SOCIOLOGY
Authors: Zhuravleva Lyudmila Anatol'evna , Zarubina Elena Vasil'evna
Published: August 2021

The article analyzes approaches to understanding the role of the peasantry as the basis of the Russian nation and culture and a special social community. The ideas of M. M. Kovalevsky, S. N. Yuzhakov, P. A. Sorokin, A.V. Chayanov and T. Shanin are presented. The conclusion is made about the relevance and methodological value of the approaches of representatives of Russian sociology to this issue. The article states that today, among the priority areas of agricultural sociology, the most popular is the study of family farming as a subject of the informal economy sector of the production of environmentally friendly products for the population interested in the development of bio-agriculture and innovative food networks that reduce the distance between food producers and consumers. It is this urgency of the problem that makes peasant studies the most promising direction of agrarian sociology. Taking into account the practical significance of this problem, relying on methodological approaches and developments of domestic and foreign sociologists, the research group of the Ural Agrarian University, based on the network interaction of universities of the Ural region and India, developed a program of initiative cross-cultural sociological research on the topic "Culture of farm labor", the purpose of which is to analyze the value bases of economic behavior of representatives of this social group for designing an effective agricultural policy.
The development of Nanosota-1 as anti-SARS-CoV-2 nanobody drug candidates
Authors: Ye Gang , Gallant Joseph , Zheng Jian , Massey Christopher , Shi Ke , Tai Wanbo , Odle Abby , Vickers Molly , Shang Jian , Wan Yushun , Du Lanying , Aihara Hideki , Perlman Stanley , LeBeau Aaron , Li Fang
Published: August 2021

Combating the COVID-19 pandemic requires potent and low-cost therapeutics. We identified a series of single-domain antibodies (i.e., nanobody), Nanosota-1, from a camelid nanobody phage display library. Structural data showed that Nanosota-1 bound to the oft-hidden receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, blocking viral receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The lead drug candidate possessing an Fc tag (Nanosota-1C-Fc) bound to SARS-CoV-2 RBD ~3000 times more tightly than ACE2 did and inhibited SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus ~160 times more efficiently than ACE2 did. Administered at a single dose, Nanosota-1C-Fc demonstrated preventive and therapeutic efficacy against live SARS-CoV-2 infection in both hamster and mouse models. Unlike conventional antibodies, Nanosota-1C-Fc was produced at high yields in bacteria and had exceptional thermostability. Pharmacokinetic analysis of Nanosota-1C-Fc documented an excellent in vivo stability and a high tissue bioavailability. As effective and inexpensive drug candidates, Nanosota-1 may contribute to the battle against COVID-19.
Aspirin inhibits tumor progression and enhances cisplatin sensitivity in epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Guo Jianfeng , Zhu Yapei , Yu Lili , Li Yuan , Guo Jing , Cai Jing , Liu Lin , Wang Zehua
Published: August 2021

Background

Ovarian cancer is the most common gynecological malignancy and is difficult to manage due to the emergence of resistance to various chemotherapeutic drugs. New efforts are urgently awaited. Aspirin, which is traditionally considered a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), has been reported to exert potential chemopreventive effects. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the anticancer effect and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of aspirin on epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) cells.

Methods

We conducted wound healing, transwell migration, EdU cell proliferation, colony formation and apoptosis detection assays to observe the effects of aspirin on the migration, proliferation and apoptosis of EOC cells (A2870, Caov-3, and SK-OV-3). EOC cells were treated with a combination of aspirin and cisplatin (CDDP) to observe the effect of aspirin on enhancing CDDP sensitivity. Orthotopic xenograft models of ovarian cancer established with A2780-Luciferase-GFP cells were applied to compare tumor growth inhibition in the control, CDDP and CDDP plus aspirin groups through in vivo imaging, which can be used to continuously monitor tumor growth. The expression and acetylation levels of p53 in EOC cells treated with aspirin were determined using western blotting, and p53 acetylation levels were examined in tumors harvested from the transplanted mice. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to assess the mRNA expression of p53 target genes.

Results

Aspirin inhibited migration and proliferation and induced apoptosis in EOC cell lines in a concentration-dependent manner. In vitro, aspirin enhanced the sensitivity of EOC cells to CDDP by increasing its inhibitory effect on proliferation and its effect on inducing apoptosis. In vivo, the differences in the tumor growth inhibition rates among the different CDDP experimental groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Aspirin did not affect p53 protein expression but increased the p53 acetylation level in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, the mRNA levels of CDKN1A, BAX, FOXF1, PUMA, and RRAD in EOC cells were significantly increased by the aspirin treatment.

Conclusions

Aspirin inhibits tumor progression and enhances the CDDP sensitivity of EOC cells. These antitumor effects of aspirin might be mediated by p53 acetylation and subsequent activation of p53 target genes.
Embryo and larval biology of the deep-sea octocoral Dentomuricea aff. meteor under different temperature regimes
Authors: Rakka Maria , Godinho António , Orejas Covadonga , Carreiro-Silva Marina
Published: August 2021

Deep-sea octocorals are common habitat-formers in deep-sea ecosystems, however, our knowledge on their early life history stages is extremely limited. The present study focuses on the early life history of the species Dentomuricea aff. meteor, a common deep-sea octocoral in the Azores. The objective was to describe the embryo and larval biology of the target species under two temperature regimes, corresponding to the minimum and maximum temperatures in its natural environment during the spawning season. At temperature of 13 ±0.5 °C, embryos of the species reached the planula stage after 96h and displayed a median survival of 11 days. Planulae displayed swimming only after stimulation, swimming speed was 0.24 ±0.16 mm s−1 and increased slightly but significantly with time. Under a higher temperature (15 °C ±0.5 °C) embryos reached the planula stage 24 h earlier (after 72 h), displayed a median survival of 16 days and had significantly higher swimming speed (0.3 ±0.27 mm s−1). Although the differences in survival were not statistically significant, our results highlight how small changes in temperature can affect embryo and larval characteristics with potential cascading effects in larval dispersal and success. In both temperatures, settlement rates were low and metamorphosis occurred even without settlement. Such information is rarely available for deep-sea corals, although essential to achieve a better understanding of dispersal, connectivity and biogeographical patterns of benthic species.
Gestión para el desarrollo de vivienda social. Los proyectos de viviendas 100% subsidiadas Plaza de la Hoja y Villas de San Pablo en Colombia
Authors: Bedoya-Ruiz Angela , Agudelo-Rodríguez Carlos , Ramos-Calonge Helmuth , Juliao-Vargas Clara
Published: August 2021

Un aspecto clave en los procesos de integración urbana de hogares socioeconómicamente vulnerables es el acceso a la vivienda social. Sin embargo, las políticas y programas diseñados para su provisión se encuentran en una posición ambigua entre las políticas sociales de los Estados, al perseguir simultáneamente objetivos sociales respecto de la población en situación de pobreza, y crecimiento económico mediante la dinamización del sector construcción. Esto contribuye a su desarticulación con los procesos de planificación territorial, que generalmente requieren de visión de largo plazo. Este artículo reflexiona sobre el rol de la gestión y planificación en la provisión de vivienda social, con miras a la definición de variables que puedan considerarse para la evaluación de proyectos. Se concluye, a partir del estudio de dos casos del Programa de Vivienda Gratuita, que la gestión debe abordarse de manera integral, involucrando acciones de coordinación interinstitucional, instrumentos de planificación territorial y actividades para el seguimiento de los hogares beneficiados.
Pobreza de tiempo, género y vivienda social en Santiago de Chile. Un análisis cualitativo
Authors: Castillo Mayarí , Sanhueza Claudia , Rosales-Salas Jorge , Sandoval Diego
Published: August 2021

Este trabajo busca mostrar, desde una perspectiva cualitativa, la importancia del concepto de pobreza de tiempo para un análisis del bienestar de usuarios/as de vivienda social de la ciudad de Santiago de Chile. Muestra la relación entre segregación espacial de la vivienda social, uso del tiempo y producción de desigualdades, con especial énfasis en las desigualdades de género. Se basa para esto en un estudio de caso en la población San Guillermo de Bajos de Mena, el que fue abordado con una metodología etnográfica durante el año 2019. Durante la investigación, se realizó observación, entrevistas en profundidad y etnografía móvil, en fin de mostrar las dinámicas de producción y reproducción cotidiana de desigualdades en el espacio segregado, a partir de una análisis del tiempo destinado al trabajo remunerado, de cuidado y doméstico, de ocio y sociabilidad y tiempo de traslados.
Políticas y marco jurídico de fomento a la lactancia materna exclusiva en el Perú
Authors: Baca-Gamarra Ana Miluzka
Published: August 2021

La Organización Mundial de la Salud en su último informe sobre las Metas de Nutrición para el 2025, ha incluido a la lactancia materna, como 5ª meta, proponiendo aumentar la tasa de lactancia materna exclusiva en los primeros 6 meses de vida hasta un 50% como mínimo, para mejorar la tasa de supervivencia y la salud de los infantes, esto ha impulsado a los países miembros de la OMS a incrementar sus esfuerzos para promover su práctica y aumentar las estadísticas de países con cifras menores al 1% de mujeres que practican la lactancia materna exclusiva. Perú, como estado miembro posee una trayectoria en la implementación de disposiciones que han contribuido a mejorar el espíritu de esta meta, posicionándose actualmente en el primer lugar de los países latinoamericanos y segundo lugar a nivel mundial con mayor frecuencia de lactancia materna exclusiva, según UNICEF. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo describir la implementación de disposiciones legales en el Perú, que se relacionan con el incremento de la lactancia materna exclusiva.
Editorial
Authors: Gloël Matthias , Cárdenas Tomazic Ana , Díaz Crovetto Gonzalo , Julián Vejar Dasten
Published: August 2021

Editorial
COVID-19 Desertion – Investigating Mold Potentials before Office Re-Entry
Authors: Osakwe Kennedy A. , Alamina Folusho E.
Published: August 2021

Background: While workers and organisations heeded lockdown enforcements and abandoned offices in response to COVID-19 pandemic, the potential for mold growth thrived in unoccupied offices. An investigative enquiry to assess the potential and risk of exposure to mold is a sine-qua-non to safe re-entry to offices.

Materials and Method: An analytical study conducted through walk through survey involving visual inspection, measurement of physico-chemical parameters (Temperature, Relative Humidity, Air Velocity and Particulate Matters PM2.5); collection and analysis of suspected swab and bulk samples.

Results: Results showed copious amount of moisture evidenced by an averagely high relative humidity of 94%, low ambient temperature of 16% and poor ventilation evinced by an air velocity of 0.4 metre per second. Analysis of samples Mucor species revealed (Mucor mucedo, Mucor himalis, Mucor racemosus); Aspergillus species (Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus terrus); Cladosporium species (Cladosporium cladosproides and Cladosporium sphaerosperum).

Conclusion: Poor ventilation, deposits of debris, increased moisture and dysfunctional ventilation system as found in abandoned offices for Mold growth. Post lockdown re-entry to offices should be preceded by Mold risk assessment among other measures to rule out the presence of Mold growth. Preparations for re-entry should include deep cleaning with anti Mold agents, optimization of ventilation system using anti Mold and High Efficiency Particulate Absorbing (HEPA) filters, dehumidifiers and safe remediation of suspected mold growth using suitable personal protective equipment.
Physicochemical Evaluation of Eichhornia crassipes and Pennisetum purpureum used for Production of Drilling Mud Additives
Authors: Emenike I. U. , Osuji Leo C. , Onojake M. C.
Published: August 2021

Cellulose isolated from Eichhornia crassipe (Water hyacinth) and Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass) were evaluated using Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy and standard analytical methods for production of drilling mud. The physico-chemical analyses were carried out after chlorination and alkaline process using sodium chlorite and sodium hydroxide for the extraction of cellulose from the two biomass samples under same experimental conditions. Results of physico-chemical analysis of Eichhornia crassipes showed pH: 7.30; conductivity 0.028; bulk density 0.1097g/ml. Pennisetum purpureum showed pH: 7.50; conductivity 0.192; bulk density 0.1378g/ml. Pennisetum purpureum has a higher cellulose yield of 31.39% compared with Eichhornia crassipes with a percentage cellulose yield of 21.88%. Both biomass samples have Herzberg strain of Violet-blue. The results of the Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy showed prominent peaks at 3353-3164, 1655, 1629, 1320, 1033 and 1019 cm-1. The broad absorption bands around 3353-3164 cm-1 indicated stretching of –OH groups due to inter-molecular and intra-molecular hydrogen bonds of polymeric compounds. The sharp bands at 1655 cm-1  and 1629 cm-1 showed C=C stretch of aromatics. The sharp absorption bands observed at 1320, 1019 and 1033 cm-1 were characteristic of C—O stretch and C—O—C asymmetric stretch of cellulose. The FTIR results proved that the products extracted from the two samples were aromatic hydroxyl compounds. The results of the physicochemical analyses showed that cellulose isolated from the biomass samples which are persistent noxious weeds that invade the aquatic and terrestrial environment can be utilized in industrial applications for drilling fluid production.
Diagnosis of Senile Amyloidosis by Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy and Cell Block from Abdominal Fat Pad
Authors: Bhake Arvind , Kharche Kaustubh
Published: August 2021

Background:  Amyloidosis is menacingly increasing medical problem in aging population across globe. Its clinical presentation is varied. Its laboratory diagnosis often requires biopsy material. The fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC, FNAB) offers dependable diagnostic alternative to cumbersome biopsy. Present protocol describes the FNAC of abdominal pad of fat as surrogate site for diagnosis of senile systemic amyloidosis avoiding biopsy other known sites. 

Aim: To study diagnostic accuracy of subcutaneous abdominal fat tissue fine needle aspiration cytology/biopsy for detecting systemic (senile) amyloidosis and its utility in clinical practice.

Objectives:

To diagnose systemic amyloidosis (senile) by fine needle aspiration cytology/biopsy of abdominal fat pad on crush smears of aspirates and cell blocks.

To correlate the diagnosis of deposits of amyloid with the clinical manifestations in specific and non specific clinical manifestations of amyloidosis.

To know the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnosis of amyloid deposition on fine needle aspiration cytology/biopsy of abdominal fat pad in comparison to the results of cell block preparations.

Methodology: A prospective study carried out to compare results of FNAC of abdominal pad of fat with paraffin embedded cell block in diagnosis of amyloidosis in suspected cases of cases of senile systemic amyloidosis. Technical adopted methods to be used are regular tissue stains, congo red stain and polarized microscopy. 

Expected Results: It is expected that results of study will establish FNAC of abdominal pad of fat as dependable office diagnostic procedure that would avoid complicated biopsy procedures of gastrointestinal tissue, skin, bone marrow and others for senile systemic amyloidosis.
Preparation and Biological Evaluation of Silybin Liposomes for the Treatment of Liver Disorders
Authors: Gandey Saijyosthana , Aparna Vema , Kandarapu Raghupathi
Published: August 2021

Aim: The aim of the present study was to develop silybin liposome by incorporating phosphatidyl choline & cholesterol so as to increase its oral bioavailability and liver targeted enhanced hepatoprotection.

Methodology: Thin film hydration technique was used for the development of liposomes by using phosphatidyl choline, cholesterol and drug. Liposomes were evaluated for vesicle size, zeta potential, PDI, encapsulation efficiency, surface morphology and in vitro drug release study. Further the optimized formulation was evaluated for APAP-induced alterations in liver and kidney function tests in rats and histopathological studies.

Results: The results were promising with a sustained drug release of 80% within 20hrs, optimized vesicle size of 276nm and 89% encapsulation efficiency. The animal studies demonstrated superior hepatoprotective effect compared to silybin solution.

Conclusion: The silybin liposomes showed better in-vitro release & in-vivo hepatoprotection along with better animal activity & improvement in histopathological changes as compared to silybin.
Study on Percutaneous Intramedullary Nailing In Adult Diaphyseal Humeral Fractures
Authors: Soomro Mohsin Aijaz , Silro Ajmal Khan , Baloch Raheel Akbar , Rehman Najeeb Ur. , Jokhio Muhammad Faraz , Keerio Niaz Hussain , Noor Syed Shahid
Published: August 2021

Objective: The objective of this research was to evaluate close fixation techniques for fractures of humerus via percutaneous intramedullary nailing.

Methodology: This was a prospective study, carried out in Suleman Roshan Medical College Tando Adam Pakistan from January 2019 to January 2020. About 60 patients with humeral shaft fractures were made part of this study with a follow-up period of about 1 to 2 years. The inclusion criteria were humeral fractures that were of less than 7 days prior to surgery, the displacement of fracture >20° in sagittal as well as coronal plane, and the distance measuring >2cm between the two fragments. All patients were treated via the closed fixation technique. Multiple nails that were slender as well as flexible (3-5) were used in the close fixation technique including rush nails (45 patients) and ender nails (15 patients). All the patients within their follow-up periods were evaluated for ROM, pain, or any kind of deformity, and all the patients were assessed radiographically to check the process of bone union.

Results: The outcome was analyzed before implant i.e at six months and after the implant was removed. About 86% patients (n= 52) revealed satisfactory outcomes at six months. About 5 patients revealed non-union or delayed union that was healed after 2nd surgery of bone grafting in 3 patients and injections associated with bone marrow in 2 patients. Stiffening of the shoulder was found to be a frequent complication that decreased significantly when the position of nail insertion was changed during the research.

Conclusion: The technique of intramedullary nailing displayed many benefits including minimum tissue stress, a quick surgery time, decreased period of hospital stay, and rapid bone union.
Designer Glasses—Future of Photonic Device Platforms
Authors: Fernandez Toney T. , Gross Simon , Privat Karen , Johnston Benjamin , Withford Michael
Published: August 2021

The intentional inclusion of key atomic elements in a purpose designed glass helps to achieve unprecedented control over the ultrafast laser written circular waveguide morphology and refractive index change. Behavioral response of glass constituents to ultrafast laser in 14 different commercial silicate glasses having various compositions are studied. Viscosity, aluminum to alkaline earth+alkali ratio, and total silicon content within the glass are the prime control factors for producing waveguides with high circularity and refractive index change. Drawing on this knowledge, the designer glass is successfully fabricated from an empirical formula that facilitates maintaining circular waveguide morphology, high refractive index over fast feed rates, and amorphous composition.
Organic Light‐Emitting Transistors in a Smart‐Integrated System for Plasmonic‐Based Sensing
Authors: Prosa Mario , Benvenuti Emilia , Kallweit David , Pellacani Paola , Toerker Michael , Bolognesi Margherita , Lopez‐Sanchez Laura , Ragona Vincenzo , Marabelli Franco , Toffanin Stefano
Published: August 2021

The smart integration of multiple devices in a single functional unit is boosting the advent of compact optical sensors for on‐site analysis. Nevertheless, the development of miniaturized and cost‐effective plasmonic sensors is hampered by the strict angular constraints of the detection scheme, which are fulfilled through bulky optical components. Here, an ultracompact system for plasmonic‐sensing is demonstrated by the smart integration of an organic light‐emitting transistor (OLET), an organic photodiode (OPD), and a nanostructured plasmonic grating (NPG). The potential of OLETs, as planar multielectrode devices with inherent micrometer‐wide emission areas, offers the pioneer incorporation of an OPD onto the source electrode to obtain a monolithic photonic module endowed with light‐emitting and light‐detection characteristics at unprecedented lateral proximity of them. This approach enables the exploitation of the angle‐dependent sensing of the NPG in a miniaturized system based on low‐cost components, in which a reflective detection is enabled by the elegant fabrication of the NPG onto the encapsulation glass of the photonic module. The most effective layout of integration is unraveled by an advanced simulation tool, which allows obtaining an optics‐less plasmonic system able to perform a quantitative detection up to 10−2 RIU at a sensor size as low as 0.1 cm3.
Engineering the Dynamics of Cell Adhesion Cues in Supramolecular Hydrogels for Facile Control over Cell Encapsulation and Behavior
Authors: Diba Mani , Spaans Sergio , Hendrikse Simone I. S. , Bastings Maartje M. C. , Schotman Maaike J. G. , van Sprang Johnick F. , Wu Dan Jing , Hoeben Freek J. M. , Janssen Henk M. , Dankers Patricia Y. W.
Published: August 2021

The extracellular matrix (ECM) forms through hierarchical assembly of small and larger polymeric molecules into a transient, hydrogel‐like fibrous network that provides mechanical support and biochemical cues to cells. Synthetic, fibrous supramolecular networks formed via non‐covalent assembly of various molecules are therefore potential candidates as synthetic mimics of the natural ECM, provided that functionalization with biochemical cues is effective. Here, combinations of slow and fast exchanging molecules that self‐assemble into supramolecular fibers are employed to form transient hydrogel networks with tunable dynamic behavior. Obtained results prove that modulating the ratio between these molecules dictates the extent of dynamic behavior of the hydrogels at both the molecular and the network level, which is proposed to enable effective incorporation of cell‐adhesive functionalities in these materials. Excitingly, the dynamic nature of the supramolecular components in this system can be conveniently employed to formulate multicomponent supramolecular hydrogels for easy culturing and encapsulation of single cells, spheroids, and organoids. Importantly, these findings highlight the significance of molecular design and exchange dynamics for the application of supramolecular hydrogels as synthetic ECM mimics.
Intracellular Dynamic Assembly of Deep‐Red Emitting Supramolecular Nanostructures Based on the Pt…Pt Metallophilic Interaction
Authors: Zhou Xue‐Quan , Mytiliniou Maria , Hilgendorf Jonathan , Zeng Ye , Papadopoulou Panagiota , Shao Yang , Dominguez Maximilian Paradiz , Zhang Liyan , Hesselberth Marcel B. S. , Bos Erik , Siegler Maxime A. , Buda Francesco , Brouwer Albert M. , Kros Alexander , Koning Roman I. , Heinrich Doris , Bonnet Sylvestre
Published: August 2021

Many drug delivery systems end up in the lysosome because they are built from covalent or kinetically inert supramolecular bonds. To reach other organelles, nanoparticles hence need to either be made from a kinetically labile interaction that allows re‐assembly of the nanoparticles inside the cell following endocytic uptake, or, be taken up by a mechanism that short‐circuits the classical endocytosis pathway. In this work, the intracellular fate of nanorods that self‐assemble via the Pt…Pt interaction of cyclometalated platinum(II) compounds, is studied. These deep‐red emissive nanostructures (638 nm excitation, ≈700 nm emission) are stabilized by proteins in cell medium. Once in contact with cancer cells, they cross the cell membrane via dynamin‐ and clathrin‐dependent endocytosis. However, time‐dependent confocal colocalization and cellular electron microscopy demonstrate that they directly move to mitochondria without passing by the lysosomes. Altogether, this study suggests that Pt…Pt interaction is strong enough to generate emissive, aggregated nanoparticles inside cells, but labile enough to allow these nanostructures to reach the mitochondria without being trapped in the lysosomes. These findings open new venues to the development of bioimaging nanoplatforms based on the Pt…Pt interaction.
Selective Catalysis Remedies Polysulfide Shuttling in Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Hua Wuxing , Li Huan , Pei Chun , Xia Jingyi , Sun Yafei , Zhang Chen , Lv Wei , Tao Ying , Jiao Yan , Zhang Bingsen , Qiao Shi‐Zhang , Wan Ying , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: August 2021

The shuttling of soluble lithium polysulfides between the electrodes leads to serious capacity fading and excess use of electrolyte, which severely bottlenecks practical use of Li‐S batteries. Here, selective catalysis is proposed as a fundamental remedy for the consecutive solid‐liquid‐solid sulfur redox reactions. The proof‐of‐concept Indium (In)‐based catalyst targetedly decelerates the solid‐liquid conversion, dissolution of elemental sulfur to polysulfides, while accelerates the liquid‐solid conversion, deposition of polysulfides into insoluble Li2S, which basically reduces accumulation of polysulfides in electrolyte, finally inhibiting the shuttle effect. The selective catalysis is revealed, experimentally and theoretically, by changes of activation energies and kinetic currents, modified reaction pathway together with the probed dynamically changing catalyst (LiInS2 catalyst), and gradual deactivation of the In‐based catalyst. The In‐based battery works steadily over 1000 cycles at 4.0 C and yields an initial areal capacity up to 9.4 mAh cm−2 with a sulfur loading of ≈9.0 mg cm−2.
Crystallization by Amorphous Particle Attachment: On the Evolution of Texture
Authors: Schoeppler Vanessa , Stier Deborah , Best Richard J. , Song Chengyu , Turner John , Savitzky Benjamin H. , Ophus Colin , Marcus Matthew A. , Zhao Shiteng , Bustillo Karen , Zlotnikov Igor
Published: August 2021

Crystallization by particle attachment (CPA) is a gradual process where each step has its own thermodynamic and kinetic constrains defining a unique pathway of crystal growth. An important example is biomineralization of calcium carbonate through amorphous precursors that are morphed into shapes and textural patterns that cannot be envisioned by the classical monomer‐by‐monomer approach. Here, a mechanistic link between the collective kinetics of mineral deposition and the emergence of crystallographic texture is established. Using the prismatic ultrastructure in bivalve shells as a model, a fundamental leap is made in the ability to analytically describe the evolution of form and texture of biological mineralized tissues and to design the structure and crystallographic properties of synthetic materials formed by CPA.
Ultrastrong and Ductile Soft Magnetic High‐Entropy Alloys via Coherent Ordered Nanoprecipitates
Authors: Han Liuliu , Rao Ziyuan , Souza Filho Isnaldi R. , Maccari Fernando , Wei Ye , Wu Ge , Ahmadian Ali , Zhou Xuyang , Gutfleisch Oliver , Ponge Dirk , Raabe Dierk , Li Zhiming
Published: August 2021

The lack of strength and damage tolerance can limit the applications of conventional soft magnetic materials (SMMs), particularly in mechanically loaded functional devices. Therefore, strengthening and toughening of SMMs is critically important. However, conventional strengthening concepts usually significantly deteriorate soft magnetic properties, due to Bloch wall interactions with the defects used for hardening. Here a novel concept to overcome this dilemma is proposed, by developing bulk SMMs with excellent mechanical and attractive soft magnetic properties through coherent and ordered nanoprecipitates (<15 nm) dispersed homogeneously within a face‐centered cubic matrix of a non‐equiatomic CoFeNiTaAl high‐entropy alloy (HEA). Compared to the alloy in precipitate‐free state, the alloy variant with a large volume fraction (>42%) of nanoprecipitates achieves significantly enhanced strength (≈1526 MPa) at good ductility (≈15%), while the coercivity is only marginally increased (<10.7 Oe). The ordered nanoprecipitates and the resulting dynamic microband refinement in the matrix significantly strengthen the HEAs, while full coherency between the nanoprecipitates and the matrix leads at the same time to the desired insignificant pinning of the magnetic domain walls. The findings provide guidance for developing new high‐performance materials with an excellent combination of mechanical and soft magnetic properties as needed for the electrification of transport and industry.
Regioregular Narrow‐Bandgap n‐Type Polymers with High Electron Mobility Enabling Highly Efficient All‐Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Huiliang , Liu Bin , Ma Yunlong , Lee Jin‐Woo , Yang Jie , Wang Junwei , Li Yongchun , Li Bangbang , Feng Kui , Shi Yongqiang , Zhang Baohua , Han Dongxue , Meng Hong , Niu Li , Kim Bumjoon J. , Zheng Qingdong , Guo Xugang
Published: August 2021

Narrow‐bandgap n‐type polymers with high electron mobility are urgently demanded for the development of all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs). Here, two regioregular narrow‐bandgap polymer acceptors, L15 and MBTI, with two electron‐deficient segments are synthesized by copolymerizing two dibrominated fused‐ring electron acceptors (FREA) with distannylated aromatic imide, respectively. Taking full advantage of the FREA and the imide, both polymer acceptors show narrow bandgap and high electron mobility. Benefiting from the more extended absorption, better backbone ordering, and higher electron mobility than those of its regiorandom analog, the L15‐based all‐PSC yields a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.2% when blended with the polymer donor PM6. More importantly, MBTI incorporating a benzothiophene‐core FREA segment shows relatively higher frontier molecular orbital levels than L15, forming a cascade‐like energy level alignment with L15 and PM6. Based on this, ternary all‐PSCs are designed where MBTI is introduced as a guest into the PM6:L15 host system. Thanks to further optimal blend morphology and more balanced charge transport, the PCE is improved up to 16.2%, which is among the highest values for all‐PSCs. The results demonstrate that combining an FREA and an aromatic imide to construct regioregular narrow‐bandgap polymer acceptors provides an effective approach to fabricate highly efficient all‐PSCs.
Antisolvent Engineering to Optimize Grain Crystallinity and Hole‐Blocking Capability of Perovskite Films for High‐Performance Photovoltaics
Authors: Huang Yulan , Liu Tanghao , Wang Bingzhe , Li Jielei , Li Dongyang , Wang Guoliang , Lian Qing , Amini Abbas , Chen Shi , Cheng Chun , Xing Guichuan
Published: August 2021

With potential commercial applications, inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have received wide‐spread attentions as they are compatible with tandem devices and processed at low‐temperature. Nevertheless, their efficiencies remain unsatisfactory due to insufficient film quality on hydrophobic hole transport layer and limited hole‐blocking capability of the electron transport layer. Herein, 1,3,5‐Tris(1‐phenyl‐1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐yl)benzene (TPBi), an n‐type semiconductor, is incorporated into the antisolvent to simultaneously regulate the grain growth and charge transport of perovskite films. TPBi facilitates the crystallization of perovskites along (100) orientation. Besides, TPBi is mainly distributed near the top surface of perovskite film and enhances the hole‐blocking capability of the area adjacent to the surface. The superior properties of this film lead to a remarkable improvement in the open‐circuit voltage of inverted PSCs. The champion device achieves a high power conversion efficiency of 21.79% while keeping ≈92% of its initial value after 1000 h storage in the ambient atmosphere. This work provides an effective way to evidently promote the performance of inverted PSCs and illustrates its underlaying mechanism.