bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urea fertilization and grass species alter microbial nitrogen cycling capacity and activity in a C4 native grassland
Authors: Hu Jialin , Richwine Jonathan D. , Keyser Patrick D. , Yao Fei , Jagadamma Sindhu , DeBruyn Jennifer M.
Published: August 2022

Soil microbial transformation of nitrogen (N) in nutrient-limited native C4 grasslands can be affected by N fertilization rate and C4 grass species. Here, we report in situ dynamics of the population size (gene copy abundances) and activity (transcript copy abundances) of five functional genes involved in soil N cycling (nifH, bacterial amoA, nirK, nirS, and nosZ) in a field experiment with two C4 grass species (switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)) under three N fertilization rates (0, 67, and 202 kg N ha−1). Diazotroph (nifH) abundance and activity were not affected by N fertilization rate nor grass species. However, moderate and high N fertilization promoted population size and activity of ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB, quantified via amoA genes and transcripts) and nitrification potential. Moderate N fertilization increased abundances of nitrite-reducing bacterial genes (nirK and nirS) under switchgrass but decreased these genes under big bluestem. The activity of nitrous oxide reducing bacteria (nosZ transcripts) was also promoted by moderate N fertilization. In general, high N fertilization had a negative effect on N-cycling populations compared to moderate N addition. Compared to big bluestem, the soils planted with switchgrass had a greater population size of AOB and nitrite reducers. The significant interaction effects of sampling season, grass species, and N fertilization rate on N-cycling microbial community at genetic-level rather than transcriptional-level suggested the activity of N-cycling microbial communities may be driven by more complex environmental factors in native C4 grass systems, such as climatic and edaphic factors.
Real World Experience using Cidofovir in BK Polyomavirus Haemorrhagic Cystitis following Stem Cell TransplantationAre Generics Equally Efficacious?
Authors: Lionel Sharon , Selvarajan Sushil , Kulkarni Uday , Abraham Aby , Mathews Vikram , Lakshmi Kavitha M , Abraham Asha Mary , George Biju
Published: August 2022

Introduction: BK Polyomavirus induced Haemorrhagic Cystitis (BKPyV-HC), a well-recognised complication following Haematopoietic Cell Transplantation (HCT), is associated with increased organ dysfunction and mortality. The treatment is a multipronged strategy which includes manipulating immunosuppression and antiviral therapy along with newer advances of virus specific cellular therapy. Cidofovir is a nucleotide analogue of Cytosine that is effective against many Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) viruses and its use has been limited in the past because of cost and toxicity. Aim: To capture real world data on the use of cidofovir in BKPyVHC, post HCT especially with regard to dosage, efficacy, toxicity and predictors of response to therapy. The study compared the efficacy and safety of the innovator molecule of cidofovir with Generic versions. Materials and Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort of 67 patients, who were diagnosed with BKPyV-HC post haematopoietic stem cell transplant, and were treated with cidofovir. The study was conducted at a tertiary care centre at Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India, between 2015 and 2021. BKPyV Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was checked in urine routinely in alternate donor transplants, and if there were typical lower urinary tract symptoms or haematuria in any other transplant setting. Treatment with cidofovir (initially innovator an subsequently generic) was as per physician’s discretion. Results: 985 patients underwent Allogeneic HCT during the study period, of which 67 had BKPyV-HC and were treated with cidofovir (47 with Innovator molecule, 20 with Generic molecule). There was clinical resolution in 47 (70.1%) and mortality in 32 (47.8%) of the cohort. On univariate analysis, risk factors associated with mortality were an absence of clinical resolution (p<0.001), treatment initiation at a higher grade of HC (p=0.032), CD34 cell dose >9x106 /Kg (p=0.029), partial remission of malignancy at the time of transplant (p=0.001), ≤3 doses of cidofovir used (p=0.036), BK log value >log 7 at the time of stopping cidofovir (p=0.021) and toxicity with cidofovir (p=0.036). However, only the absence of clinical resolution was significantly associated (p<0.001) with mortality risk on multivariate analysis. There was no significant difference between the two comparator molecules of cidofovir. Conclusion: Cidofovir is an effective and safe therapeutic option to treat BKPyV-HC with no significant differences seen between the innovator and Generic molecule of Cidofovir in this small series of patients.
Usefulness of Mobile Phone Based Agro-advisories in Manipur, North Eastern India
Authors: Nath Dipak , Moirangthem Abhinash , Sharma Ranjit , Heisnam Punabati
Published: August 2022

Mobile phones are the devices that can help to improve the livelihoods of rural people by getting much needed timely information to their fingertips at potentially low cost. Manipur is one of the North-Eastern states of India, covering an area of 22,327 sq km which nearly accounts for 0.7 per cent of the total land surface of India. The study was conducted in Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Imphal East and Imphal West districts of Manipur with 110 randomly selected respondents. It was observed that majority of the respondents (70.91%) perceived that mobile based agro-advisories were responsive in terms of timeliness of the messages and 73.64 per cent mentioned that the messages were highly relevant. In terms of the comprehension of massages, 98.18 per cent of respondents stated that massages were easy to understand, while 59.18 per cent observed that the messages were less technical and 83.64 per cent mentioned that the messages were in terms of message treatment and content adequacy. Mobile phone based agro-advisories was said to be more useful for weather forecasting by 83.64 per cent; followed by 82.73 per cent for plant protection measures; 80.91 per cent indicated that mobile advisories improved their knowledge about agriculture and allied sector as well as 80.00 per cent for fish health management. Majority of the respondents, that is, 68.18% had positive perception about mobile based agro- advisories, followed by 4.55 per cent with negative perception for the same services. Moreover, the inclusion of need based training component and convergence with different extension functionaries helped to develop an ICT based Stakeholder Interface in the field of agriculture in the region. This alternate extension system also helped to develop better rapport with the farmers and can be replicated in other hilly region of the world.
Immigrant Work Force in Greece: Social Inequalities, Labor and Crisis. The Road to Subservience
Authors: Asproulis Aris
Published: August 2022

This article focuses on the subject of labor and social inequalities through an overview of classical sociological approaches and certain important recent Greek studies, having as their central subject the itineraries to subservience of immigrants employed in personal services. The work force, undergoing radical change during periods of crisis, lies at the core of the classical sociological approaches, while the immigrant work force – and, mostly, people working in personal services and composing, through certain itineraries, a new service staff in Greece – lies at the core of the recent Greek studies. The question is how exactly this shift happens, that is how an employment relationship turns into subservience.
Comparative Analysis of the Quality of Petroleum Products from Different Sources in Sapele, Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Ivwurie W. , Ohawa E.
Published: August 2022

Background: Adulteration is the illegal addition of any foreign substance into motor Gasoline / high speed diesel. Adulteration maybe due to a long storage period. fuel quality can widely evolve and be different from its initial quality.

Aim: Physicochemical analysis was carried out on different petroleum products (namely, gasoline, kerosene and diesel) from different petrol stations/sales outlets, to determine their quality.

Methods: The physical chemical parameters investigated were specific gravity, pour point, API gravity, viscosity, flash point, fire point and cloud point. The test was carried out using standard procedures of American society for testing and materials (ASTM).

Results: The result shows that physical chemical parameters investigated fell short of the ASTM standard range for a good number of the petroleum products, suggestive of adulteration.

Conclusion: Given that petroleum products are generally imported into the country, the source of adulteration could not be determined since samples were collected only at petrol stations/sales outlets.
Evaluation of Effectiveness of Different Regimens of Centrifugation for a Single-spin Method of Pure Platelet-containing Plasma Preparation
Authors: Petrushenko Viktoria , Grebeniuk Dmytro , Nazarchuk Halyna
Published: August 2022

Aims: The aim of the study is to determine the optimal parameters of single centrifugation for the preparation of platelet-containing plasma (PCP) with maximum reduction of other cellular elements of the blood.
Materials and Methods: 30 conditionally healthy persons aged 18 to 60 years (36.9±11.2 years) were included in the study. A total of 12 centrifugation modes were studied: 110g × 5 min, 110g × 10 min, 110g × 15 min, 140g × 5 min, 140g × 10 min, 140g × 15 min, 160g × 5 min, 160g × 10 min, 160g × 15 min, 190g × 5 min, 190g × 10 min, 190g × 15 min. To evaluate the effectiveness of different centrifugation modes, in addition to the number of basic cellular elements, such indicators as platelet capture efficiency, platelet enrichment factor, erythrocyte-reducing efficiencies and leukocyte-reducing efficiencies were studied.
Results: When examining the volumes of the obtained plasma containing platelets, it was found that almost all centrifugation modes allow obtaining significantly different volumes of the investigated blood fraction from the others (p<0.001). For clarity, the regimens were sorted according to the volume of platelet-containing plasma obtained, from the smallest to the largest. There was a progressive decrease in the numerical values of the concentration of platelets, erythrocytes and leukocytes in plasma samples. Also there was a progressive decrease in the numerical values of the coefficient of platelet enrichment.
Conclusions: With a single centrifugation for the preparation of plasma containing platelets, the most effective mode is 160g × 10 min, which allows achieving a platelet enrichment factor of about 1.71 at a platelet concentration of 483.6 ± 45.4 × 109/l, a platelet capture efficiency of 85, 7 ± 0.1% and reductions of erythrocytes and leukocytes 98.76 ± 0.09% and 98.46 ± 0.14%, respectively.
Determination of Calcium Carbonate Equivalent of Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Preetha K. , Malathi P. , Selvi D. , Parameswari E. , Thamaraiselvi S. P.
Published: August 2022

Rice husk ash is one of the widely available agricultural wastes in rice producing countries, with potential to replace limestone and also supply some of the nutrients which are beneficial for crop growth. This study was conducted to determine the effective calcium carbonate equivalent (ECCE) of rice husk ash added to an acid soil. The design used in this study was completely randomized block design with 12 treatments and 3 replications. An incubation experiment was carried out in the post graduate laboratory of Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during Feb – March 2022.The incubation experiment was conducted for 4 weeks with eight levels of reagent grade CaCO3 (0.0, 0.5,1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0g kg-1 soil) and four levels of rice husk ash equivalent to 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 g CaCO3 kg-1 soil and analysed for pH at weekly interval. Results showed that soil pH increased in all the treatments received CaCO3 or rice husk ash with advancement of incubation period. Application of CaCO3 5.0 g kg-1 soil recorded significantly highest soil pH at all stages of incubation followed by CaCO3 4.0 g kg-1 soil and RHA 48.5 g kg-1 soil which were statistically on par. The TCCE (determined by titration method) and ECCE (determined by incubation with the soil) of rice husk ash used in this experiment were 10.3% and 6.41% respectively. Results of the present study showed that rice husk ash can be used as an amendment for acid soil reclamation.
Methods of Seed Extraction by Tamarind (Tamarindus indica)
Authors: Barros Daniella Inácio , Nunes Helber Véras , Santos Emanuella Pereira Dos , Oliveira Liomar Borges De , Teles Simone Pereira , Quirino Mariana Senna , Libório Ricardo Alencar , Sales Paulo Victor Gomes , Ribeiro Evandro Alves , Sá Luis Fernando Pereira De , Cardeal Indira Rayane Pires , Nunes Bruno Henrique Di Napoli
Published: August 2022

Tamarind has a good nutritional composition, presenting good values of proteins, carbohydrates, dietary fibers, calcium, and low lipid and cholesterol content. The germination pattern of tamarind seeds is like that of other legume species, in which the hard integument interferes in the absorption of water and oxygen thus limiting germination. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the viability and vigor of tamarind seeds submitted to different extraction methods. The extraction methods for seed removal were washing in running water with the aid of a knife, washing in running water with the aid of a sieve, blender, fermentation for 48h with 66.6% water + 33.3% sugar, fermentation for 48h with 50% water + 50% sugar and fermentation only with water for 72h.
Quality of Life Changes in Patients with Osteoradionecrosis and Their Measurement
Authors: Somay Efsun , Yilmaz Busra , Kucuk Ahmet , Topkan Erkan
Published: August 2022

One of the most serious and debilitating complications of radiation therapy (RT) for patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) is osteoradionecrosis of the jaws (ORNJ). ORNJ is defined as radiation-induced ischemic bone necrosis with soft tissue necrosis in the absence of primary tumor, recurrence, or metastatic disease. Even though the incidence of ORNJ has dropped from about 20% to 2–8% as a result of recent advancements in RT techniques, this serious complication is still very challenging to predict, prevent, and treat. It is beyond dispute that ORNJ has detrimental effects on patients' quality of life (QoL). Pain, halitosis, taste disturbance, dysesthesia or anesthesia, trismus, difficulty chewing, swallowing, feeding, and speaking, fistula formation, pathological fracture, and localized or systemic infections are the most frequent symptoms of ORNJ that have an impact on the victim's QoL measures. However, ORNJ-specific QoL studies are scarce in this patient group despite ORNJ's significant harmful effects on the sufferers' physical appearance and functions, mood, and social relationships. By providing readily available information about the physical, social, and emotional effects of ORNJ as measured by general or HNC-specific QoL surveys, this review article aims to serve as a foundation for future studies addressing novel ORNJ-specific questionnaires.
Risk Factors for Plasmodium falciparum Recurrence in Artemether Lumefantrine Treated Population from Bushenyi District, Uganda
Authors: Maniga Josephat Nyabayo , Wilberforce Mfitundinda , Aziz Katabazi , Peter Kaweesa Simon , Martin Odoki , Bella Onchoke Vera , Muchiri Jacqueline Njeri , Albert Ochweri , Akinola Saheed Adekunle , Adebayo Ismail Abiola , John Odda
Published: August 2022

Background: Malaria remains a major Public health problem. In 2019, it was reported that Uganda accounts for 5 % of the total global cases of malaria related deaths after Nigeria and Democratic Republic of Congo.Various risk factors may be responsible for poor treatment outcomes. Thus the main aim of this study was to evaluate the Risk factors for Plasmodium falciparum recurrence in Artemether-lumefantrine treated population from Bushenyi district, Uganda.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in four selected health centers of Bushenyi district, Uganda by using questionnaire, direct observations and laboratory based studies. Data analysis was done using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS version 23 windows) for descriptive statistics. Logistic regression analysis was done to evaluate the association between Plasmodium falciparum recurrence and associated risk factors.

Results: Statistically independent predictor risk factors for Plasmodium falciparum recurrence at p<0.05 were; Previous Diagnosis used before the current artemether lumefantrine (AL) treatment (OR=11.864; 95% CI: 1.477-95.280; p=0.020), Sleeping with animals (OR=0.193; 95% CI: 0.075-0.894; P=00.032), Age (OR=1.435; 95% CI: 0.0825-0.975; p=0.040), Travelling outside the study area (OR=2.324; 95% CI: 0.050-0.699; p= 0.012), Weight (OR =1.543; 95% CI: 0.085-0.987; p= 0.002), Gametocytes on day 0 (OR =0.284; 95% CI: 0.0625-0.735; p= 0.032)9

Conclusions: Monitoring of transmission potentiality after Artemisinin combined therapies (ACTs) treatment is vital in the fight against malaria infection.
Frequency of Gestational Thrombocytopenia in Pregnant OPD Patients: Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Kumari Kaweeta , Bakhtawar Faiz , Ismail Sumbul , Butt Tooba Shaukat , Dhomeja Nand Lal , Ghani Uniza
Published: August 2022

Objective: Gestational thrombocytopenia can lead to fatal complications. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the frequency of Gestational Thrombocytopenia in pregnant patients attending antenatal outpatients department (OPD) at a tertiary care hospital, Karachi.

Methodology: This Descriptive observational study was conducted in the department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Creek general hospital, United Medical & Dental College. All normotensive pregnant patients with no history of Malaria, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) were asked to get CBC done which was followed throughout pregnancy. Low platelet counts (<150 x109/L, the patients were followed up with CBC every 10 days to see the decline. Platelet count of 1208 patients was performed using Minray BC 30 automated analyzer.

Results: Out of 1208 pregnant patients, thrombocytopenia was present in 112 (9.3%); 454 were prim gravida, 269 (22.33%) were second gravida while 485 (40.1%) were multigravida. Out of 112 patients, mild thrombocytopenia was seen in 78 (69.6%), moderate thrombocytopenia was seen in 20 (17.9%) while severe thrombocytopenia was present in 14 (12.5%). Total 996 (82.5%) delivered vaginally; thrombocytopenia was present in 96 (85.7%). Lower segment Cesarian section (LSCS) was done in 212 and 16 (14.3%) had thrombocytopenia. No PPH and safe fetal outcome seen.

Conclusion: In our study, the majority of the patients had mild gestational thrombocytopenia in pregnancy with no fatal complications. Pregnant females should be routinely screened for thrombocytopenia to avoid the disastrous complication of postpartum hemorrhage.
Epidemiological profile of the clientele that seeks assistance in integrative and complementary practices / Perfil epidemiológico da clientela que busca atendimento em práticas integrativas e complementares
Authors: Regazzi Isabel Cristina Ribeiro , Siqueira Kamile Santos , Knupp Virginia Maria , Padilha Giúlia Kamille de Medeiros , Lopes Elida Borges , Batista Walesca Carvalho Amaral
Published: August 2022

Objetivo: descrever o perfil epidemiológico da clientela que busca atendimento em Práticas Integrativas e Complementares. Método: pesquisa descritiva, tipo corte transversal e abordagem quantitativa, realizado com 104 indivíduos que buscaram atendimento em Práticas Integrativas e Complementares na Universidade Federal Fluminense. Resultados: houve predomínio de jovens de 19 a 30 anos com alta escolaridade. Apesar de 57 (76%) ingerem regularmente a água e 14 (79%) praticam atividade física três ou mais vezes/semana, 14 (18,9%) eram etilistas, sete (9,3%) tabagistas, três (4,2%) consumiam drogas ilícitas e 27 (39,6%) dedicavam-se “nada” ou “muito pouco” ao lazer. Apenas 29 (37,1%) possuíam boa disposição geral, nove (11,8%) bom humor e 10 (9,3%) sentiam-se tranquilos a maior parte do tempo. Apetite e sede normal foram relatados em 43 (56,5%) e 38 (49,3%) respectivamente e 59 (90,7%) exibiram problemas com o sono. Conclusão: o atendimento tem sido buscado pela população que manifesta certo grau de sofrimento mental.
What Is Long-Acting Reversible Contraception?
Authors: Stark Elisabeth L. , Gariepy Aileen M. , Son Moeun
Published: August 2022

This JAMA Patient Page describes types of long-acting reversible contraception, how they are placed and removed, and their potential side effects.
Association Between the Relaxation of Public Health and Social Measures and Transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant in South Korea
Authors: Ryu Sukhyun , Han Changhee , Kim Dasom , Tsang Tim K. , Cowling Benjamin J. , Lee Sunmi
Published: August 2022

This cohort study investigates the association between relaxation of public health and social measures and daily cases of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant infection in South Korea.
3D Printing and Rapid Replication of Advanced Numerically Generated Rough Surface Topographies in Numerous Polymers
Authors: Perris Jack , Kumar Charchit , Xu Yang , Tassieri Manlio , Kartal Mehmet E. , Gadegaard Nikolaj , Mulvihill Daniel M.
Published: August 2022

An approach to rapidly produce high‐quality polymer surface topographies from numerically generated surfaces is presented. The approach uses an advanced surface generation tool to flexibly design surfaces with user‐defined topography characteristics over a large range of surface roughness. Roughness instances with root mean square roughness 25, 50, and 100 μm are studied. 3D printing is used to create a master surface and polymer casting and injection molding are employed to enable rapid replication in various polymers. The cross‐correlation ratio (CCR) and a mean difference approach were used to assess replication quality. Injection molding provides high throughput with high replication quality up to CCR ≈ 0.74. While casting in low‐viscosity polymer resins enables slightly improved high‐quality replication (CCR up to ≈0.82) with reduced throughput. Key results include the ability of the 3D‐printed surfaces to replicate tailored variations in surface topography (e.g., amplitude and frequency) and the importance of low viscosity resins in maximizing replication quality in polymer casting. Several interfacial and surface phenomena (both mechanical and biological) are sensitive to surface roughness. The main application lies in providing a valuable tool for research looking at topography influencing phenomena ranging from friction and lubrication to aerodynamic drag, algae growth, and cell growth.
Sub 150 nm Nanoscale Gallium Based Metal–Organic Frameworks Armored Antibiotics as Super Penetrating Bombs for Eradicating Persistent Bacteria
Authors: Huang Kai , Wang Jinbing , Zhang Qinghao , Yuan Kai , Yang Yiqi , Li Fupeng , Sun Xiaojiang , Chang Haishuang , Liang Yakun , Zhao Jie , Tang Tingting , Yang Shengbing
Published: August 2022

Persistent bacteria, such as intracellular and biofilm bacteria, are critical challenges in clinic treatment because they are refractory to antibiotics management under the shelter of cytomembrane and biofilm. Conventional strategies to combat intracellular bacteria are using high doses of antibiotics, which may bring the risk of drug resistance, and debridement of the biofilm increases patients’ pain and economic burden. Currently, the use of antibiotics is irreplaceable and it is necessary to develop new strategies to enable common antibiotics to penetrate the cytomembrane and biofilm, and then kill the bacteria. Hence, a nanoscale gallium‐based metal–organic framework (GaMOF) nanoparticles that can stride across cell membranes as antibiotics carriers, disable the biofilm via disrupting bacteria Fe metabolism, and enhance the antibiotic potency for the two intractable germs is constructed. The synthesized GaMOF exhibits a high BET surface area of up to 1299.53 m2 g−1, uniform particle size of ≈100 nm, monodispersed spherical morphology with virus‐like surfaces, and good biosafety. The nano MOF structure and Ga intrinsic inhibiting bacteria activity armored antibiotics as “super‐penetrating bombs” to eradicate the two types of elusive bacteria. Moreover, intracellular bacteria‐induced pyroptosis and associated inflammation in vivo are alleviated by GaMOF and cured by GaMOF united with antibiotics treatment.
Edge‐Site Engineering of Defective Fe–N4 Nanozymes with Boosted Catalase‐Like Performance for Retinal Vasculopathies
Authors: Zhang Ruofei , Xue Bai , Tao Yanhong , Zhao Hanqing , Zhang Zixia , Wang Xiaonan , Zhou Xinyao , Jiang Bing , Yang Zhenglin , Yan Xiyun , Fan Kelong
Published: August 2022

Extensive efforts are devoted to refining metal sites for optimizing the catalytic performance of single‐atom nanozymes (SANzymes), while the contribution of the defect environment of neighboring metal sites lacks attention. Herein, an iron‐based SANzyme (Fe‐SANzyme) is rationally designed by edge‐site engineering, which intensively exposes edge‐hosted defective Fe–N4 atomic sites anchored in hierarchical mesoporous structures. The Fe‐SANzyme exhibits excellent catalase‐like activity capable of efficiently catalyzing the decomposition of H2O2 into O2 and H2O, with a catalytic kinetic KM value superior to that of natural catalase and reported nanozymes. The mechanistic studies depict that the defects introduce notable charge transfer from the Fe atom to the carbon matrix, making the central Fe more activated to strengthen the interaction with H2O2 and weaken the OO bond. By performing catalase‐like catalysis, the Fe‐SANzyme significantly scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) and alleviates oxidative stress, thus eliminating the pathological angiogenesis in animal models of retinal vasculopathies without affecting the repair of normal vessels. This work provides a new way to refine SANzymes by engineering the defect environment and geometric structure around metal sites, and demonstrates the potential therapeutic effects of the nanozyme on retinal vasculopathies.
Advances in Microfluidic Technologies for Energy Storage and Release Systems
Authors: Cheng Samuel Kok Suen , Li Tong , Meena Stephene Shadrack , Cao Qianan , Li Binglin , Kosgei Benson Kiprono , Cheng Tingjun , Luo Ping , Liu Qingjun , Zhu Genhua , Liu Qian , Han Ray P.S.
Published: August 2022

While the majority of the technologies developed for energy storage are macrosized, the reactions involved in energy storage, such as diffusion, ionic transport, and surface‐based reactions, occur on the microscale. In light of this, microfluidics with the ability to manipulate such reactions and fluids on the micrometer scale has emerged as an interesting platform for the development of energy storage systems. Herein, the advances in utilizing microfluidic technologies in energy storage and release systems are reviewed in terms of four aspects. First, miniaturized microfluidic devices to store various forms of energy such as electrochemical, biochemical, and solar energy with unique architectures and enhanced performances are discussed. Second, novel energy materials with the desired geometries and characteristics that can be fabricated via microfluidic techniques are reviewed. Third, applications enabled by such microfluidic energy storage and release systems, particularly focusing on medical, environmental, and modeling purposes, are presented. Lastly, some remaining problems and challenges and possible future works in this field are suggested.
Preparation and characterization of high temperature resistant thermosetting polyphenylene ether resin
Authors: Wu Xiankun , Xu Chang‐an , Lu Mangeng , Wang Kunxin , Li Zhao , Yang Hui
Published: August 2022

To explore high thermal properties, low dielectric constant and loss for copper clad laminates, poly(phenylene oxide) (PPE) with different end groups (allyl and epoxide groups) were successfully prepared. Firstly, low molecular weight polyphenylene ether was synthesized using the redistribution method. Then the polyphenylene ether thermosetting polymers by modifying their terminal hydroxyl groups were reported and their fundamental materials properties were compared. Through property tests and data analyses, it was found that PPE with vinyl end groups had the best performances, especially high glass transition temperature (about 230°C), the thermal conductivity was 0.32–0.38 Wm−1 K−1, low dielectric constant (about 2.5) and low dielectric loss (about 4.4 × 10−3). The possible reason was that the main chain of polyphenylene ether contains non‐polar crosslinkable group (CC). In a word, through properties comparison of thermosets of PPE, the results demonstrated that the materials of all systems were suitable for using as printed circuit boards.
Development of poly(butyl acrylate‐co‐oleic acid) as biobased polymeric dispersant and its application in preparation of pigment concentrate
Authors: Lim Boon‐Leong , Ang Desmond Teck‐Chye
Published: August 2022

It is highly desirable to develop bio‐based products using sustainable materials and reduce dependence on petrochemicals. There are various reports on the use of sustainable materials in the synthesis of polymer resins, but research on the use of sustainable materials in development of coating additives such as polymeric dispersant is significantly lacking. Objective of this work is to produce fatty acid‐based polymeric dispersant using oleic acid in combination with butyl acrylate. The performance of the fatty acid‐based polymeric dispersant was benchmarked against commercially available and petrochemical‐based polymeric dispersant. The dispersants produced were characterized using spectroscopies (1H‐NMR and FTIR), thermal analyses (thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry), and molecular weight analysis. Application test was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the polymeric dispersant in titania pigment concentrate formulation which was tinted in nitrocellulose clear coating. Properties such as viscosity, fineness, gloss, optical properties, and storage stability were evaluated, and the result obtained shows that fatty acid‐based polymeric dispersant could disperse titania efficiently and produced coatings with good optical properties and excellent gloss retention. The carboxyl group from the incorporated fatty acid served as excellent pigment anchoring group, facilitating good orientation of dispersant on the pigment surface and promote excellent stability.
CBTsupervision behind closed doors: Supervisor and supervisee reflections on their expectations and use of clinical supervision
Authors: Roscoe Jason , Taylor Julie , Harrington Rufus , Wilbraham Susan
Published: August 2022

Objective

Previous surveys examining the routine practice of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) supervision have consistently found that methods utilised by supervisors often drift from expert recommendations. Harmful or ineffective supervision are two potential consequences of practices which overlook one or more of the normative, formative or restorative functions. Given that most of the research to date in this area has used quantitative methods, it is important to gain a deeper understanding of the reasons why everyday supervision differs so greatly. One way of achieving this is through exploring the “lived experience” of supervisors and supervisees.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with (N = 10) supervisors and supervisees, and data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Three superordinate themes were identified: “inconsistency of approaches,”“autonomy”and“the relationship.”The findings revealed that supervisors are practicing very differently from one another, despite awareness of expert guidance. There were some indications of supervisory drift, characterised by supervisor resistance to hierarchical structures and supervisee avoidance due to concerns about their safety within the relationship.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to better understand how supervision dyads can identify and manage dysfunctional supervision practices.
Hepatoprotective Effect Associated with Alkaloids from Corydalis tomentella Franch. based on Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and in Vitro Experiment
Authors: Zong Kunqi , Gong Chang , Shao Zhutong , Songa Ce , Meng Dali
Published: August 2022

Liver is an important metabolic organ with numerous functions in human body. Hepatitis is defined as the inflammation of the liver tissue, which could lead to acute liver failure, liver fibrosis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Corydalis tomentella Franch., a precious herb in China, is often used in the treatment of hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. In this study, 41 isoquinoline alkaloids and derivatives isolated by our lab from C. tomentella and 61 related targets were analyzed by network pharmacology. Their activities were further verified by cell assay evaluated for antitumor activity against HepG2 cells and molecular docking. The results confirmed that the alkaloids from C.tomentella had extensive hepatoprotective effects, and TNF‐α was the key target of hendersinate B methyl ester against acute liver damage by viral hepatitis and HCC, which provided a foundation for further in vivo studies.
Competing C‐4 and C‐5‐Acyl Stabilization of Uronic Acid Glycosyl Cations
Authors: Elferink Hidde , Remmerswaal Wouter A. , Houthuijs Kas J. , Jansen Oscar , Hansen Thomas , Rijs Anouk M. , Berden Giel , Martens Jonathan , Oomens Jos , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Boltje Thomas J.
Published: August 2022

Uronic acids are carbohydrates carrying a terminal carboxylic acid and have a unique reactivity in stereoselective glycosylation reactions. Herein, the competing intramolecular stabilization of uronic acid cations by the C‐5 carboxylic acid or the C‐4 acetyl group was studied with infrared ion spectroscopy (IRIS). IRIS reveals that a mixture of bridged ions is formed, in which the mixture is driven towards the C‐1,C‐5 dioxolanium ion when the C‐5,C‐2‐relationship is cis, and towards the formation of the C‐1,C‐4 dioxepanium ion when this relation is trans. Isomer‐population analysis and interconversion barrier computations show that the two bridged structures are not in dynamic equilibrium and that their ratio parallels the density functional theory computed stability of the structures. These studies reveal how the intrinsic interplay of the different functional groups influences the formation of the different regioisomeric products.
Metal‐Organic Framework‐Based Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Jiang Zhuoliang , Wen Bo , Huang Yaohui , Li Haixia , Li Fujun
Published: August 2022

Rechargeable lithium‐oxygen batteries (LOBs) are considered to be the next‐generation energy technology owing to their high theoretical energy density. However, the sluggish cathode kinetics and degradation of Li anodes result in large voltage hysteresis and low coulombic efficiency. Various materials have been applied to promote the electrochemical performance of LOBs. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) possessing porous structures, open active sites and adjustable pore sizes have been attempted as promising materials for catalysts and separators of LOBs. This concept presents an overview of different MOF‐based catalysts for LOBs, including traditional, conductive, semi‐conductive and soluble MOFs, as well as our recently proposed photo‐involved LOBs. Recent advances in MOF‐based separators to restrain the shuttling of redox mediators between cathodes and anodes and suppress the formation of lithium dendrites are also discussed. Finally, perspectives on the development of MOF‐based LOBs for future research are presented.
Operating Behavior of a Demonstration Plant for Methanol Synthesis
Authors: Voß Johannes Michael , Daun Torben , Geitner Christian , Schlüter Stefan , Schulzke Tim
Published: August 2022

A demonstration plant designed for methanol synthesis with steel mill gases was operated continuously for the first time over a period of 5 weeks. The reactor represents a single tube with typical dimensions of an industrial tube bundle reactor with a boiling water cooling jacket and is incorporated into a full loop of unreacted gases. Temperature profile along reactor axis and gas composition in gas recycle stream are measured online. In several experiments, the operating range of the plant was determined. Additionally, the reactor and the loop were simulated and the results agree well with experimental values.
COD removal from actual industrial wastewater using a three‐dimensional electrochemical apparatus
Authors: Wenqiang Xiao , Shan Jiang
Published: August 2022

Chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal was investigated using a three‐dimensional electrochemical system. The effects of electrode position, pH value, initial temperature, circulation flow, aeration, and addition of hydrogen peroxide on the removal efficiency of the pollutant were studied. The fillers used in the experiment were centimetre‐sized and electrolyte was obtained from an industrial factory with a concentration of COD as high as 25 000–27 500 mg L−1, which was rare in other studies of the past. The degradation of organics was affected by pH and circulation flow, and a decrease in the initial pH value led to the increase in removal efficiency, while a trend of increasing at first and then decreasing was observed with the extension of circulation flow. Aeration and hydrogen peroxide served as enhanced processes for a higher removal rate. Both ultrasound and ultraviolet had effects on the electrolysis system. Oxygen uptake rate measurement and bio‐treatment experiments demonstrated a significant increase in biodegradability with this three‐dimensional electrochemical system. In addition, a pilot scale test in a pharmaceutical factory showed an economic benefit on energy consumption, which was as low as 10 kWh  kg−1 COD.
Decoration of BiVO4/ZnO Photoanodes with Fe‐ZIF‐8 to Simultaneously Enhance Charge Separation and Hole Transportation for Efficient Solar Water Splitting
Authors: He Xianhong , Tian Wei , Bai Zhengyu , Yang Lin , Li Liang
Published: August 2022

Facilitating the separation and transport efficiency of photogenerated electron–hole pairs is a key factor in realizing efficient photoelectrochemical (PEC) reactions. Herein, a novel metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived cocatalyst of iron‐substituted ZIF‐8 (Fe‐ZIF‐8) is fabricated, which is attached to a BiVO4/ZnO (BZ) photoanode. The formation of Fe‐ZIF‐8 is based on ZnO nanoparticles in BZ (BiVO4/ZnO : Fe‐ZIF‐8, BZZF) through a ligand‐exchange method. Fe‐ZIF‐8 can extract holes from BZ, prolong the lifetime of charge carriers at the photoanode/electrolyte interface, and enhance the built‐in electric field to drive the separation of photogenerated charge carriers. In addition, more active sites and surface defect states are induced by the decoration with Fe‐ZIF‐8. As a result, the prepared BZZF photoanode achieves enhanced separation and transport efficiency under AM 1.5G solar light illumination (100 mW cm−2). The PEC performance achieves 4.14 mA cm−2 with a maximum applied bias photon‐to‐current efficiency of 1.10 % at 0.71 V vs. RHE, which is superior to that of BiVO4. This work suggests that the semiconductor combined with MOF‐derived materials is a rational design to facilitate charge separation and increase hole transport efficiency simultaneously to advance PEC water splitting systems.
Computational Analysis of Radiative Heat Transfer in Czochralski Furnace and 3D Anisotropic Thermal Stress in Li2MoO4 Bulk Crystal
Authors: Haddad Fadila , Bouzouaoui Yahia Zakarya , Mokhtari Faiza , Velázquez Matias , Zermout Samir , Lasloudji Idir
Published: August 2022

Here, the radiative heat transfer inside a Czochralski furnace and the 3D thermal stress generated in a semitransparent Li2MoO4 crystal are deeply analyzed using anisotropic and temperature‐dependent elasticity and thermal expansion coefficients. The developed global numerical model takes into account induction heating, thermal conduction in all parts of the furnace, convection in the melt and the growth atmosphere, Marangoni convection at the free surface, radiation heat exchange between the furnace elements, internal radiation inside the semitransparent crystal and melt, and phase change at the growth interface. The contribution of each radiation mode is studied separately, then coupled together to clearly explain their roles in heat transfer, stress generation in the as‐grown crystal and in power consumption, and heat loss inside the furnace. Flow and temperature fields in the molten oxide and in the growth atmosphere as well as the thermal stress are presented and discussed for each case. Unrealistic cases are first considered where radiation exchange between the furnace elements and internal radiation in the assumed opaque crystal are neglected. For each case, the relation between temperature gradient and thermal stress is clearly demonstrated. Finally, the effect of the melt opacity on thermal stress is studied and related to temperature gradients in the crystal and at the free surface. The experimental observations are in good agreement.
Implementing the Ambiphilicity of an Organotellurenyl Cation for the Synthesis of a Platinum(II)‐Based Carboxylate‐Bridged Heterobimetallic Complex: Structure and Bonding Analysis
Authors: Deka Rajesh , Sarkar Arup , Butcher Ray J. , Singh Harkesh B.
Published: August 2022

The metathesis reaction of aryltellurium chloride, ppyTeCl [ppy=2‐(2’‐pyridyl)phenyl] (5) with AgClO4 afforded Intramolecular Chalcogen Bonding (IChB)‐stabilized organotellurenyl cation [ppyTe] ⋅ ClO4 ([6] ⋅ ClO4). The reaction of [6] ⋅ ClO4 with K2PtCl4 in acetic acid resulted in the formation of platinum(II)‐based carboxylate‐bridged heterobimetallic complex [Pt(ppyTe)(μ‐OOCMe)Cl2], 7 containing an organotellurenyl cation as ligand. This is the first time a Pt(II) complex of an organotellurenyl cation donor‐acceptor ligand has been reported. Complex 7 was characterized by multi‐nuclear NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C, and 125Te), FT‐IR spectroscopy, CHN analysis, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies. The single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies and DFT analysis infer that the Te center in 7 behaves as an ambiphilic ligand, accepting electrons from the N‐atom of the ppy moiety and the O‐atom of the carboxylate groups while simultaneously donating electrons to the Pt(II) center. The 2D‐fingerprint plots derived from the Hirshfeld surface analysis reveal multiple intermolecular interactions in the packing diagrams of complex 7. The natural charges accumulated on the atoms in complex 7 were calculated by Natural Population Analysis (NPA). In addition, the HOMO‐LUMO energy gap in 7 was calculated.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Acylation/Arylation of Alkenes via Aryl Migration/Desulfonylation
Authors: Luo Zhen‐Tao , Fan Jian‐Hong , Xiong Bi‐Quan , Liu Yu , Tang Ke‐Wen , Huang Peng‐Fei
Published: August 2022

A new photoinduced acylation/arylation of N‐(arylsulfonyl)acrylamide with acyl oxime esters through a nitrogen‐centered radical protocol has been disclosed for efficient preparation of functionalized indolin‐2‐ones, which proceeds through a cascade acyl radical addition of carbon‐carbon double bond, aryl migration, desulfonylation, and intramolecular cyclization sequence. This redox‐neutral strategy features excellent selectivity, good substituent tolerance, and wide substrate scope.
From protection to non‐protection: A mixed methods study investigating movement, posture and recovery from disabling low back pain
Authors: Wernli Kevin , Smith Anne , Coll Fiona , Campbell Amity , Kent Peter , O'Sullivan Peter
Published: August 2022

Background

Movement and posture are commonly believed to relate to low back pain (LBP). Yet, we know little about how people make sense of the relationship between their LBP, movement and posture, particularly after recovery. We aimed to qualitatively explore this understanding, how it changes and how it relates to quantitative changes.

Methods

A mixed method study in the context of an existing single‐case design involving 12 people with disabling non‐specific LBP. Interviews were conducted before and after a 12‐week physiotherapy‐led Cognitive Functional Therapy intervention, and qualitative findings from these were integrated with individualized, quantitative measures of movement, posture, psychological factors, pain and activity limitation.

Results

Strong beliefs about movement and posture were identified during the baseline interviews. Lived experiences of tension and stiffness characterized the embodiment of ‘nonconscious protection’, while healthcare and societal messages prompted pain‐related fear and ‘conscious protection’. Through varied journeys, most participants reported improvements over time with less protective movement and postural strategies. For some, being less protective required focused attention (‘conscious non‐protection’), but most returned to automatic, normal and fearless patterns (‘nonconscious non‐protection’), forgetting about their LBP. One participant reported no meaningful shift, remaining protective. Greater spinal range, faster movement, more relaxed postures and less back muscle EMG accompanied positive changes in self‐report factors.

Conclusion

The findings offer a framework for understanding how people make sense of movement and posture during the process of recovery from persistent, disabling non‐specific LBP. This involved a re‐conceptualisation of movement and posture, from threatening, to therapeutic.

Significance

Findings from qualitative interviews before and after a Cognitive Functional Therapy intervention in 12 people with disabling low back pain highlighted an individualized recovery journey from conscious and nonconscious protection to conscious non‐protection for some, and nonconscious non‐protection for many. Pre and post‐quantitative measures of movement, posture, psychological factors, pain and activity limitation integrated well with the qualitative findings. The findings suggest movement and posture may form part of a multidimensional pain schema.