bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symphonies in the stacks : how libraries can aid in classical music’s revitalization
Authors: Doublet Diana
Published: June 2021

Classical music as an art form is as vibrant and engaging as ever, but it is steadily losing the ability to connect to the greater community. It is an industry like any other, and must keep itself relevant in order to remain afloat. Libraries have faced many of same challenges, but unlike the classical music world, they have had far more success in adapting to new technologies and adopting new models for operation. Classical music must learn to do the same, and collaboration with libraries is a fundamental first step in accomplishing this. This paper examines some of the ways collaboration is already taking place, and suggests ways it can further aid audience revitalization through providing access for the library community.
Peering into the Private Lives of Judges: Reconciling Judicial Accountability and Privacy
Authors: Li Nancy
Published: June 2021

Members of the Canadian courts are expected to maintain a rigorous degree of professionalism and good conduct in maintaining an independent, impartial and accountable judiciary. Yet, judges bring their diverse past experiences and values to bench and lead complex lives off the bench. Through examination of the judicial discipline of former Justice Lori Douglas in 2010, this paper makes a two-fold argument. Firstly, although the integrity of conduct by members of the judiciary must be held to the highest standard of public accountability, diverse backgrounds and lived experiences of judges allow for better informed decision-making and thereby, increase public confidence. Secondly, privacy of non-judicial activities ought to be protected to the extent that such activities do not erode public confidence in the judiciary. The diversity of lived experiences and backgrounds of judges is what makes the bench representative and credible in the eyes of Canadians. It is important that policies of the Canadian Judicial Council address these issues in creating workable inquiry and disciplinary procedures that truly further judicial accountability in the eyes of the public in a manner that is efficient yet mitigates harm to individual judges under investigation.
A Multidisciplinary Computational Framework for Sailing Yacht Rig Design & Optimization through Viscous FSI
Authors: Chapin Vincent  G. , de Carlan Nolwenn , Heppel Peter
Published: June 2021

Although competitive sailing yachts may sail fast today this is mainly due to material progress, not sail design. It is always difficult to design a set of sails for a given boat and sailing conditions. A sail has one design shape but an infinite number of corresponding flying shapes depending on materials, trimming, rigging and wind conditions. In this paper a computational framework for sail analysis, design and optimization has been extended to Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) and will be presented. The multi-physics computational framework is based on a viscous Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) solver for the fluid part and on a nonlinear structural modelling for the structural part. A loose coupling of both models has been implemented to be able to make Fluid-Structure Interaction simulations on various sail configurations and to investigate the relation between a design shape and its corresponding flying shapes. The computational framework presented also contains an optimization package based on derivative free evolutionary strategies to address complex, nonlinear optimization problems. It will be used on few examples of sail design questions to illustrate how it may contribute to put some rational elements in a rather frequently passionate discussion between sailors, sail designers, naval architects and amateurs to design the right set of sails for a given boat.
Photogrammetry Based Flying Shape Investigation of Downwind Sails in the Wind Tunnel and at Full Scale on a Sailing Yacht
Authors: Mausolf Johannes , Deparday Julien , Graf Kai , Renzsch Hannes , Böhm Christoph
Published: June 2021

This paper describes model and full scale measurements of the flying shape of spinnakers that have been developed for a 38’ c/r yacht. The flying shape measurement principle was based on photogrammetry. Motivation behind this study was to investigate and compare the flying shape as obtained in the wind tunnel and at full scale. While flying shape measurements in the wind tunnel are straight forward to do providing quite accurate results, respective measurements at full scale in natural, stochastic environment turned out to be challenging. As a result of the comparison it can be shown that flying shape at full scale and model agrees well for given trim settings of the spinnaker, while trim settings for driving force optima where quite different.
The Effects of Streamlined Rigging on Sailboat Performance
Authors: Martin Bruce J. , Filip Grzegorz P. , Maki Kevin J. , Beck Robert F. , Hall Eric
Published: June 2021

The design of sailboat rigging influences the yacht’s performance through the change in vertical center of gravity, windage, and ability to control the shape of the rig. In the past, designers have attempted to minimize this drag through the use of streamlined shapes, because it is well known that a streamlined section has much less drag with respect to a circular shape. Streamlined shapes have not been commonly used in practice probably because they are difficult and costly to manufacture. Also, some shapes may exhibit worse vortex induced vibrations (VIV) when compared to circular rigging. New manufacturing capabilities using composite materials have suggested that streamlined shapes be reconsidered for yacht standing rigging. This paper investigates the influence of two cross-section shapes of the rigging on the performance of an IMS40 sailing yacht. A modified NACA foil and a circular section are selected for the comparison, and both shapes are analyzed with numerical simulations and physical experiments. We study the change in sailboat performance due to the different aerodynamic and material properties of the rigging. A velocity prediction program (VPP) is used to quantify the performance change by comparing the time required to sail two different race courses.
Uncertainties In The Wind-Heel Analysis For Traditional Sailing Vessels: The Challenges It Presents For Forensic Analysis Of Sailing Vessel Incidents
Authors: Johnson Bruce , Lasher William , Erdman Matt , Miles Jan , Curry Bill
Published: June 2021

There are many uncertainties in the interpretation of full-scale sailing vessel data taken under dynamic conditions, and even more uncertainties when forensic analysis is attempted based only on survivor’s recollections. Frequently, the analysis is based on static equilibrium assumptions, sometimes modified to steady-state motions of the wind and heeling response of the vessel. Dynamic conditions are generally non-deterministic and statistical methods must be used. Even more complicated is the non-stationary random process nature of most accidents.

In the wind-heel research carried out on Pride II, it has been shown that wave action frequently adds uncertainty to the correct attribution of contributions to establishing the cause of the resulting heeling action. The best data are found in steady 10 to 20 knot wind strengths in minimum waves found in the lee of a shoreline. This criteria can be interpreted as minimizing the uncertainties in characterizing the wind-heel performance of a given sail combination at normal angles of heel.

Examples of quasi steady-state response are presented in the paper as characterized by the Wind Heel Stiffness Ratio (WHSR), which is equal to the square of the apparent wind velocity in knots divided by the resulting heel angle in degrees. WHSR is not non-dimensional but is independent of the system of units, (SI vs. EG). The WHSR for each sail combination is most easily established by a maneuver the crew of Pride II has deemed “The Crazy Ivan.” However, it is uncertain whether this concept can make useful predictions at heel angles higher than those beyond GZmax in the absence of any good data taken during these conditions. CFD studies of various sail combinations provide very good agreement between the recorded wind-heel responses of the vessel up to deck edge submergence. The corresponding CFD predictions provide a method of predicting the normal wind heel responses of a traditional sailing vessel during the design process.

The paper discusses operational guidance uncertainties that appear as a “fork in the road” decision, with bearing away as one path and heading up as the other. The paper examines the tradeoffs in the decision making process relative to the type of vessel involved and the observable wind and sea conditions at the time. Recent attempts to re-analyze the dismasting of Pride II in 2005 and the sinking of the SV Concordia off Brazil in 2010 are also included.

Lastly, the possible downward lift force involving square sails at high angles of heel needs to be investigated in wind tunnels since full scale testing of this concept is virtually impossible.
On The Hydrodynamics Of A Skiff At Different Crew Positions
Authors: Viola Ignazio Maria , Enlander Joshua
Published: June 2021

A set of towing tank tests was undertaken on a 1:4-model-scale high-performance small sailing boat, which was a candidate for the 2016 Olympic games. The resistance, sink and trim were measured and uncertainty analysis was completed. The boat was tested for different longitudinal positions of the crew in displacement, transition and fully planning regimes. The resistance measurements in the towing tank were well correlated with established empirical formulations developed for planning hulls. It was found that at low Froude numbers, forward crew positions allow lower resistance and resistance increases significantly for after crew positions, while at higher Froude numbers after positions allow lower resistance, and the resistance is less sensible to the crew position. These findings are in agreement with sailor experience and with measurements performed by other authors on large vessels.
AVALIAÇÃO DA ATIVIDADE ANTIMICROBIANA DE Stevia rebaudiana FRENTE AO Alicyclobacillus acidoterretris
Authors: Menezes Jéssica Lima de , Dutra Tatiane Viana , Mizuta Amanda Gouveia , Formigoni Maysa , Costa Silvio Claudio da , Abreu-Filho Benicio Alves de
Published: June 2021

Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris é uma bactéria Gram-positiva, termoacidófila, formadora de esporos e deteriorante de bebidas ácidas. Extratos de plantas naturais vêm sendo investigados como alternativa de antimicrobiano, como a Stevia rebaudiana, onde estudos revelam que extratos de suas folhas possuem metabólitos com potencial bioativo. Dessa forma, o objetivo desse trabalho, foi avaliar a atividade antimicrobiana da Stevia rebaudiana frente ao A. acidoterrestris. O extrato etanólico das folhas de Stevia rebaudiana (EES) e fração hexano das folhas de Stevia rebaudiana (FHS) foram testados para verificar concentração inibitória mínima (CIM) e concentração bactericida mínima (CBM) frente ao A. acidoterrestris. Fez-se a microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) do sub-CIM e CIM do EES e da FHS, e do controle (células de A. acidoterrestris não tratadas). A atividade inibitória encontrada foi de 31,25 μg/ml para EES e FHS testados contra o A. acidoterrestris. Enquanto que a CBM foi de 1000 μg/ml para ambos. Com a MEV foi possível observar os danos causados nas células vegetativas de A. acidoterrestris, além de verificar que houve redução do crescimento das células vegetativas ao utilizar EES e FHS. Conclui-se que os extratos testados foram efetivos contra A. acidoterrestris, demonstrando potencial biotecnológico como antimicrobiano natural para controle de suas células vegetativas em sucos de frutas cítricas industrializados.
Desinformación como herramienta de activismo social y político: ¿el fin justifica las 'fake news’?
Authors: López-Borrull Alexandre
Published: June 2021

La crisis sanitaria y infodémica por COVID-19 nos ha impactado de forma muy importante durante el último año. A parte de aprender qué son las Rt, la incidencia acumulada o qué es una PCR, hemos tenido que lidiar con una gran cantidad de mentiras y noticias falsas. Desde las teorías conspiracionistas que ligaban Bill Gates (antes del divorcio) y el 5G con la enfermedad, hasta las informaciones que las campañas de vacunación eran los intentos del nuevo orden mundial para reducir y controlar la población global.
Phase diagram and dielectric properties of orientation-dependent PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 epitaxial films
Authors: Bai Gang , Lin Cui , Liu Duan-Sheng , Xu Jie , Li Wei , Gao Cun-Fa ,   College of Electronic and Optical Engineering & College of Microelectronics, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, China,   Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China,   State Key Laboratory of Mechanics and Control of Mechanical Structures, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210016, China
Published: June 2021

Exploring phase transition behaviors and constructing phase diagrams are of importance for theoretically and experimentally studying ferroelectric physics and materials. Because of the rapid development of computers and artificial intelligence, especially machine learning methods combined with other computational methods such as first principle calculation, it is possible to predict and choose appropriate materials that meet the target requirements from a large number of material data, which greatly saves the cost of experiments. In this work, we use neural network method and phenomenological theoretical calculations to accurately predict the phase structures that may appear in the phase diagrams of different orientated Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 ferroelectric films, and establish the temperature-strain phase diagrams of (001), (110) and (111) oriented thin film, and calculate the polarization and dielectric properties of different oriented films at room temperature. By analyzing the changes of prediction accuracy and loss with the number of iterations, it is found that the deep neural network method has the advantages of high accuracy and speed in the construction of the film temperature-strain phase diagram and the prediction of the types of phases. Through the analysis of the room temperature polarization and dielectric properties, it is found that the (111)-oriented PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 film has the largest out-of-plane polarization and the smallest out-of-plane dielectric coefficient, and they are insensitive to misfit strain. This work provides guidelines for designing micro-nano devices that require the stable dielectric coefficient and polarization performance in the special working environment and operation.
Probe and manipulation of magnetism of two-dimensional CrI3 crystal
Authors: Zhang Song-Ge , Chen Yu-Tong , Wang Ning , Chai Yang , Long Gen , Zhang Guang-Yu ,   Songshan Lake Materials Laboratory, Dongguan 523808, China,   Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China,   Department of Applied Physics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China,   Department of Physics, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong 999077, China,   Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, School of Physical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
Published: June 2021

For a long time, it has been generally acknowledged that low-dimensional (lower than three-dimensions) long-range orders cannot stay stable at any finite temperature, because temperature-induced fluctuations can destroy any long-range orders in low-dimensional systems supported by isotropic short-range interactions. However, this theorem requires that the interaction must be short-range and isotropic. In fact, many low-dimensional systems do not meet these two requirements. For example, due to the strong anisotropy in two-dimensional CrI3 crystals, there is a band gap in the magnon spectrum. When the excitation energy from temperature is much lower than the band gap, the magneton cannot be excited by temperature on a large scale, and the long-range magnetic order in the two-dimensional system will not be destroyed. Various methods have been used to characterize the magnetic order in atomically thin CrI3 crystals, and a lot of attempts have been made to manipulate the magnetic structure in the system. Focusing on CrI3, in this article we review the recent studies on growth, magnetic structure measurement and manipulation of two-dimensional magnetic materials, and also discuss the prospects for the next phase of research from the perspectives of basic condensed matter physics research and electronic engineering applications.
Relations between Rα, Rβ and Rm functions related to Jacobi’s triple-product identity and the family of theta-function identities
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Netaji Subhas University of Technology, Chaudhary M. P.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, the author establishes a set of three new theta-function identities involving Rα, Rβ and Rm functions which are based upon a number of q-product identities and Jacobi’s celebrated triple-product identity. These theta-function identities depict the inter-relationships that exist among theta-function identities and combinatorial partition-theoretic identities. Here, in this paper we answer a open question of Srivastava et al [33], and established relations in terms of Rα, Rβ and Rm (for m = 1, 2, 3), and q-products identities. Finally, we choose to further emphasize upon some close connections with combinatorial partition-theoretic identities.
On two theorems of Vassilev-Missana
Authors:   Mathematical Sciences Institute, Australian National University, Brent Richard P.
Published: June 2021

We show that Theorem 1 of Vassilev-Missana [this journal, 2016, 22(4), 12–15] is false, and deduce that Theorem 2 of the same paper is also false.
A note on prime zeta function and Riemann zeta function. Corrigendum
Authors: Vassilev-Missana Mladen
Published: June 2021

In [1] the author proposed two new results concerning the prime zeta function and the Riemann zeta function but they turn out to be wrong. In the present paper we provide their correct form.
A formula for the number of non-negative integer solutions of a1x1 + a2x2 + ··· + amxm = n in terms of the partial Bell polynomials
Authors:   International Institute of Information Technology, Jha Sumit Kumar
Published: June 2021

We derive a formula for the number of non-negative integer solutions of the equation $a_1x_1 + a_2x_2 + \cdots + a_mx_m = n$ in terms of the partial Bell polynomials via the Faa di Bruno’s formula.
Regular polygons, Morgan-Voyce polynomials, and Chebyshev polynomials
Authors:   Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Merikoski Jorma K.
Published: June 2021

We say that a monic polynomial with integer coefficients is a polygomial if its each zero is obtained by squaring the edge or a diagonal of a regular n-gon with unit circumradius. We find connections of certain polygomials with Morgan-Voyce polynomials and further with Chebyshev polynomials of second kind.
Microtubule reorganization during female meiosis in C. elegans
Authors: Lantzsch Ina , Yu Che-Hang , Chen Yu-Zen , Zimyanin Vitaly , Yazdkhasti Hossein , Lindow Norbert , Szentgyoergyi Erik , Pani Ariel M , Prohaska Steffen , Srayko Martin , Fürthauer Sebastian , Redemann Stefanie
Published: June 2021

Most female meiotic spindles undergo striking morphological changes while transitioning from metaphase to anaphase. The ultra-structure of meiotic spindles, and how changes to this structure correlate with such dramatic spindle rearrangements remains largely unknown. To address this, we applied light microscopy, large-scale electron tomography and mathematical modeling of female meiotic Caenorhabditis elegans spindles. Combining these approaches, we find that meiotic spindles are dynamic arrays of short microtubules that turn over within seconds. The results show that the metaphase to anaphase transition correlates with an increase in microtubule numbers and a decrease in their average length. Detailed analysis of the tomographic data revealed that the microtubule length changes significantly during the metaphase-to-anaphase transition. This effect is most pronounced for microtubules located within 150 nm of the chromosome surface. To understand the mechanisms that drive this transition, we developed a mathematical model for the microtubule length distribution that considers microtubule growth, catastrophe, and severing. Using Bayesian inference to compare model predictions and data, we find that microtubule turn-over is the major driver of the spindle reorganizations. Our data suggest that in metaphase only a minor fraction of microtubules, those closest to the chromosomes, are severed. The large majority of microtubules, which are not in close contact with chromosomes, do not undergo severing. Instead, their length distribution is fully explained by growth and catastrophe. This suggests that the most prominent drivers of spindle rearrangements are changes in nucleation and catastrophe rate. In addition, we provide evidence that microtubule severing is dependent on katanin.
Análisis Comparativo de la Participación Escolar y Bienestar Subjetivo en Estudiantes con y sin Discapacidad en Chile
Authors:   Universidad de Concepción, Galarce Muñoz María Ignacia , Pérez-Salas Claudia Paz ,   Universidad de Concepción, Sirlopú David ,   Universidad del Desarrollo
Published: June 2021

La participación escolar es importante, ya que impacta en el bienestar de todos los estudiantes. En el caso de los estudiantes en situación de discapacidad, el apoyo y la inclusión de docentes y compañeros en las clases regulares se asocian con niveles más altos de bienestar subjetivo. El objetivo de esta investigación fue comparar los niveles de participación escolar y de bienestar subjetivo de una muestra por conveniencia de colegios particulares-subvencionados y municipales de 5 comunas en 2 regiones de Chile que contaban con un Programa de Integración Escolar. La muestra final estuvo compuesta por 120 escolares (50 con alguna discapacidad motora, visual o auditiva y 70 de ellos sin discapacidad) entre 14 y 19 años (M = 16,25, DE = 1,65 años). Los escolares fueron evaluados con las escalas de participación escolar (John-Akinola & Nic-Gabhainn, 2014); satisfacción vital multidimensional para estudiantes (Huebner, 2001) y afecto positivo y negativo para niños y adolescentes (Watson, Clark & Tellegen, 1988). Se presentan estadísticas descriptivas, correlaciones y comparación de medias entre los distintos grupos según situación de discapacidad. Los resultados indican una relación directa entre la participación escolar y el bienestar subjetivo de todos los estudiantes evaluados. No se detectaron diferencias en la participación escolar de estudiantes con y sin discapacidades, pero sí en el bienestar subjetivo, específicamente menores niveles de satisfacción con el sí mismo, con la familia y con los amigos en los estudiantes con discapacidad y mayor afectividad negativa en los estudiantes con trastorno motor versus discapacidad visual y auditiva
Effect of Dexamethasone as an Adjuncton Efficacy of Ropivacaine in Caudal Block forPostoperative Analgesia in Paediatric Infra-Umbilical Surgeries: A Randomised Double-blind Controlled Study
Authors: Patodi Veena , Jain Kavita , Choudhary Mukesh , Sethi Surendra Kumar , Jain Neena , Mathur Veena
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Caudal block is a routinely performed analgesic and anaesthetic technique in paediatric population undergoing various infra-umbilical surgeries. Various adjuvants have been used along with local anaesthetics like ropivacaine in single-shot caudal block for enhancing postoperative analgesia in paediatric infra-umbilical surgeries. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of dexamethasone used as an adjuvant to 0.2% ropivacaine in caudal block for postoperative analgesia in paediatric patients. Materials and Methods: This was a randomised doubleblinded controlled study conducted on 80 paediatric patients (8 months-8 years), with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I or II undergoing various infra-umbilical surgeries,at a tertiary care teaching institute from April 2019 to September 2019. These total subjects were randomly allocated into two groups. GroupR (n=40) administered 0.2% ropivacaine (1 mL/kg) while GroupRD (n=40) administered 0.2% ropivacaine (1 mL/kg) with dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg) in caudal block. The duration of analgesia, postoperative pain scores (Face Legs Activity Cry Consolability (FLACC) score), rescue analgesic consumption in 24 hours, haemodynamic changes and side-effects were noted. The rescue analgesic (paracetamol 15 mg/kg oral) was given whenever FLACC ≥4. Standard qualitative and quantitative tests (unpaired student t-test, Chi-square test) were used to analyse and compare the results obtained. Results: The mean duration of analgesia was significantly longer in Group RD (745.21±146.91 min) as compared to GroupR (440.38±76.44 min); (p-value <0.001). The significantly lower FLACC pain scores were noted in patients in Group RD compared to Group R; (p-value <0.05). The rescue analgesic consumption was significantly lesser in Group RD in terms of requirement of number of doses of rescue analgesic than in Group R; (p-value <0.05). No significant haemodynamic changes or side-effects were observed in both groups; (p-value >0.05). Amongst postoperative complications noted, fever was observed in 1 patient (3.33%) and PONV in 2 patients (6.66%) in Group R. None complications were observed in the patients of RD group. Conclusion: Dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg) was found to be safe and effective adjuvant to 0.2% ropivacaine for caudal block in children undergoing various infra-umbilical surgeries.
A Case Series of Lung Sequelae and Aspergillus Antigenemia- A Hidden Entity in Post-COVID-19 Critically ILL Patients
Authors: Banwait Sonali , Gupta Poonam
Published: June 2021

Coronavirus Disease-2019 Associated Invasive Aspergillosis (CAPA) is a known entity with significant mortality. There is paucity of literature with secondary aspergillosis infection in post-COVID-19 patients. Serum galactomannan is a highly sensitive test for screening patients for Aspergillus antigenemia. We report five post COVID-19 patients with High Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) features and associated high risk factors for opportunistic aspergillosis (55 years old male, 46 years old male, 75 years old female, 55 years old female and 27 years old male) like prolonged intensive care stay, acute respiratory distress syndrome, corticosteroid and broad spectrum antibiotic therapy like Meropenem, Colistin and Targocid etc.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of Critically Ill SARS-CoV-2 Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Unit of a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Verma Reetu , Nishad Rajeev Kumar , Patawa Rohit , Kumar Alok
Published: June 2021

Introduction: World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak a pandemic on 11 March 2020, due to the constantly increasing number of cases outside China. Previously, India had global record of highest single day spike of Corona Virus Disease-19 (COVID-19) cases, with 97,894 cases on 17thSeptember 2020. Aim: To find out the demographic and clinical characteristics of critically ill patients of SARS-CoV-2 and comparing the outcomes of patients admitted in COVID dedicated Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with and without co-morbidities and also in different age groups and sex. Material and Methods: This retrospective study from July 2020 to December 2020 was a single centre observational experience of management of COVID-19 patients at COVID dedicated ICU in Firozabad, India. The following data were recorded: age, sex, comorbidities and mode of oxygen delivery (invasive mechanical ventilation, non-invasive mechanical ventilation, high flow nasal canula). Chi-square test was used to compare the outcomes of patients admitted in COVID dedicated ICU with and without co-morbidities and also in different age groups and sex. Results: In this study, the data of 120 severely ill COVID-19 patients were reviewed. The mean age of patients were (58±15.29) years and male to female ratio was 3:1. At least one comorbid condition was reported in 53.3% of patients-most common being Hypertension (36.6%) followed by Diabetes mellitus 2 (20%), COPD (15%). Then Cardiovascular Diseases, Renal, Liver diseases and ailments followed. All patients admitted to COVID ICU had moderate to severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Older age (61 years and above, mortality 17%), male sex (16.7% deaths among 90 critically ill male COVID patients) and presence of comorbid conditions appear to have higher mortality in this study. However apart from comorbid conditions (p=0.001) none was statistically significant. The overall mortality in this study of 120 critically ill COVID patients was 14.16%. Conclusion: From this study, it can be suggested that survival of critically ill COVID patients can further be improved by better management of their comorbid conditions and avoiding complications of invasive ventilation. However, further multicentric studies with large sample size are needed to confirm these findings.
A Randomised Blinded Comparison of Epidural Infusion of Ropivacaine, Ropivacaine with Fentanyl for PONV and Sedation in Elective Lower Abdominal Oncosurgeries
Authors: Srihari SS , Henjarappa KS , Arathi BH , Rashmi NR , Gowda VB , Ranganath Namrata , Upadhya Jeevanthy P
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Epidural analgesia is one of the preferred and convenient mode of perioperative management. Neuraxial opioids augment local anaesthetic effect, thus reducing their requirement for analgesia. The addition of fentanyl may cause side-effects like Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV), sedation which results in patient discomfort, thus effecting postoperative recovery. Aim: To estimate the incidence, compare the requirement of rescue antiemetics for PONV and Ramsay Sedation Scores within first 24 hours of postoperative period in patients undergoing elective lower abdominal oncological sugeries. Materials and Methods: The present study was a randomised study which was carried out from September 2016 to May 2018, in 70 patients of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) 1 and 2, scheduled for elective lower abdominal oncological surgeries. The study population was divided into group R, comprising of patients receiving epidural infusion of 0.2% ropivacaine and group RF with patients receiving epidural infusion of 0.2% ropivacaine with 2 μg/mL fentanyl. The incidence of PONV, rescue antiemetics for PONV and the incidence of sedation using Ramsay sedation score were evaluated in each group and compared. All data was statistically analysed and compared using Student's t-test, Chi-square. The p-value <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Groups were comparable with regard to demographic data. The incidence of PONV in group R was 37.1% and in group RF was 28.6%. The requirement of rescue antiemetic for PONV were comparable in the study groups. However, this was not statistically significant. Patients in group RF had higher mean Ramsay sedation scores at 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, 18 and 24 hours but the observed difference in both the groups was statistically significant p<0.05 except at 0 and 2nd hours which were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study concludes that the patients receiving epidural infusion of ropivacaine with fentanyl should be given prophylactic antiemetic to minimise patient’s discomfort. Also, these patients when compared to patients receiving epidural infusion of ropivacaine alone require monitoring for sedation during the postoperative period.
In Search of Magnetic Properties of Samarium Cobalt (Sm2Co17) within a Low-Temperature Sintering Process
Authors: Puspitasari Poppy , Muhammad A. , Permanasari A. A. , Pasang T. , Zahari S. M. S. N. S. , Ahmad N. A.
Published: June 2021

Samarium cobalt is known as super high density magnetic material with large magnetic anisotropy energy. Samarium–cobalt exhibits manipulative magnetic properties as a rare-earth material which has different properties in a low sintering temperature. It is therefore of paramount importance to investigate samarium cobalt (Sm2Co17) magnetic properties in the low temperature sintering condition. Sm2Co17, which is utilized in this research, is synthesized via the sol–gel process at sintering temperatures of 400, 500, and 600 °C. Subsequently, the crystallites indicate the formation of a single-phase Sm2Co17 on all the samples in all temperature variations. Moreover, the peaks in the X-ray diffraction analysis of crystallite sizes calculated using the Scherrer equation are 17.730, 15.197, and 13.296 nm at 400, 500, and 600 °C. Through scanning electron microscopy, the particles are found to be relatively large and agglomerated, with average sizes of 143.65, 168.78, and 237.26 nm. The functional groups are also analyzed via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, which results in the appearance of several bonds in the samples, for example, alkyl halides, alkanes, and esters with aromatic functional groups on the fingerprint area and alkynes, alkyl halides, and alcohol functional groups at a wavelength of above 1500 cm. The test results of the magnetic properties using vibrating-sample magnetometer (VSM) revealed high coercivity and retentivity in the samples sintered at 400 °C. However, the highest saturation occurs in the samples sintered at 600 ℃. At a low sintering temperature (below 1000 °C), samarium cobalt shows as the soft magnetic material. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Expression of Concern: T‐LAK cell‐originated protein kinase (TOPK): an emerging prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in osteosarcoma
Authors: Thanindratarn Pichaya , Wei Ran , Dean Dylan C. , Singh Arun , Federman Noah , Nelson Scott D. , Hornicek Francis J. , Duan Zhenfeng
Published: June 2021

T‐lymphokine‐activated killer (T‐LAK) cell‐originated protein kinase (TOPK) is an emerging target with critical roles in various cancers; however, its expression and function in osteosarcoma remain unexplored. We evaluated TOPK expression using RNA sequencing and gene expression data from public databases (TARGET‐OS, CCLE, GTEx, and GENT2) and immunohistochemistry in an osteosarcoma tissue microarray (TMA). TOPK gene expression was significantly higher in osteosarcoma than normal tissues and directly correlated with shorter overall survival. TOPK was overexpressed in 83.3% of the osteosarcoma specimens within our TMA and all osteosarcoma cell lines, whereas normal osteoblast cells had no aberrant expression. High expression of TOPK associated with metastasis, disease status, and shorter overall survival. Silencing of TOPK with small interfering RNA (siRNA) decreased cell viability, and inhibition with the selective inhibitor OTS514 suppressed osteosarcoma cell proliferation, migration, colony‐forming ability, and spheroid growth. Enhanced chemotherapeutic sensitivity and a synergistic effect were also observed with the combination of OTS514 and either doxorubicin or cisplatin in osteosarcoma cell lines. Taken together, our study demonstrated that TOPK is a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for osteosarcoma treatment.
Synthesis of Pyrrolidones and Caprolactams by Intramolecular Cyclization of Linear Precursors
Authors: Arthur Samuel D. , Chenault H. Keith
Published: June 2021

Pyrrolidones and caprolactams are important molecules, serving functions ranging from their use as solvents and surfactants to their occurrence in natural products and drugs. This chapter is devoted to the synthesis of pyrrolidones and caprolactams by intramolecular ring‐forming reactions. Perhaps the simplest heterolytic cyclization to envision is the attack of an amine group onto a carboxylic acid derivative, forming the amide C–N linkage. Pyrrolidones can be created by carboxamide radical cyclization onto an alkene. Amidyl radicals can activate remote C–H bonds to cyclization. The chapter presents the synthesis of pyrrolidones and caprolactams by homolytic (radical), carbene insertion and metathetic cyclization reactions. Carbenoid attack on an electron‐rich aromatic ring competes favorably with insertion into alkane C–H. Olefin metathesis is a metal‐catalyzed reaction that entails the redistribution of alkene carbons by the scission and regeneration of carbon–carbon double bonds.
Inflammation‐Instructed Hierarchical Delivery of IL‐4/miR‐21 Orchestrates Osteoimmune Microenvironment toward the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Deng Yekun , Zhou Yang , Liang Qiujun , Ge Chenglong , Yang Jiandong , Shan Bingchen , Liu Yong , Zhou Xiaozhong , Yin Lichen
Published: June 2021

Dysregulated inflammation and failure in resolution account for the incidence and deterioration of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). IL‐4 and miR‐21 possess complementary functions in inhibiting inflammation and fostering resolution. Thus, inflammation‐instructed nanocomplexes (NCs) are herein developed to mediate hierarchical co‐delivery of miR‐21 and IL‐4 to orchestrate the osteoimmune microenvironment against RA. The NCs comprise a cationic inner core assembled from the membrane‐penetrating, helical polypeptide (PG) and miR‐21, an outer layer based on the acid‐responsive, charge reversal polymer (PLL‐CA), and surface‐adsorbed IL‐4. The negatively charged NCs enable prolonged blood circulation after systemic administration, and thus passively accumulate in the inflamed joint. In the slightly acidic microenvironment of inflamed synovium, PLL‐CA transforms from negative to positive, which sheds off to liberate IL‐4 extracellularly and facilitate the intracellular delivery of the PG/miR‐21 core into macrophages. Thus, the anti‐inflammatory miR‐21 cooperates with the proresolving IL‐4 to attenuate inflammation via NF‐κB inhibition, promote macrophage polarization to M2a/M2c phenotypes, propel resolution, and promote tissue repair against Zymosan A‐induced arthritis. This study provides an effective strategy toward the programmed delivery of drug/gene cargoes at different extracellular/intracellular locations, and the combined mechanism of anti‐inflammation and proresolution renders insights into the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Hydrogel‐Based Motors
Authors: Wang Ke , Ren Jiaoyu , Yang Sicheng , Wang Hong
Published: June 2021

Inspirations from the movements of organisms in nature have motivated a myriad of researchers to develop innovative intelligent soft matter mimicking the body deformation principles of natural systems. Similar to the sensory and control systems of biological organisms, the environment responsiveness and configurable structure of hydrogel make it an ideal candidate to construct biomimetic soft matters. This review highlights the progresses made toward developing hydrogel‐based motors from two aspects: chemically induced autonomous propulsion and external‐stimuli‐induced propulsion. According to the classification based on propulsion mechanisms, the design principles, fabrication methods, and motion characterization are discussed. By reviewing the efforts in the rapidly increasing multidisciplinary field, the framework of designing hydrogel‐based smart soft devices able to operate autonomously is outlined and ongoing research targets to meet the intended purpose are proposed.
Metal‐Free Oxidative Condensation of Catechols, Aldehydes and NH4OAc towards Benzoxazoles
Authors: Wu Shaofeng , Zhou Dan , Geng Furong , Dong Jianyu , Su Lebin , Zhou Yongbo , Yin Shuang‐Feng
Published: June 2021

Benzoxazoles extensively exist in biologically active compounds, natural products, pharmaceuticals and functional materials. Thus, facile and green synthesis of such valuable compounds from easily available substrates will make a contribution to drug, material, and fine chemistry. A method for the synthesis of benzoxazoles from catechols, aldehydes and ammonium acetate is developed using NaIO4 as oxidant under metal‐ and additive‐free conditions. A broad range of benzoxazoles including some fluorescent whitening agents, JTP‐426467 and tafamidis analogues are synthesized in 56–95% yields with outstanding functional group tolerance. Mechanistic investigations suggest that an interesting o‐iminocyclohexa‐diene alcohol intermediate is involved in the reaction. These salient features of the protocol make it an alternative for the synthesis of benzoxazoles.

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Ultrasound‐Responsive Microfluidic Microbubbles for Combination Tumor Treatment
Authors: Huang Danqing , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Zhao Cheng , Fu Xiao , Zhang Weijing , Kong Wentao , Zhang Bing , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: June 2021

Anticancer treatment is a worldwide challenge, and there are constant endeavors in this field to develop intelligent drug delivery systems to improve the therapeutic effect. This paper presents novel ultrasound‐responsive delivery microbubbles (UDMs), with chemotherapeutic‐encapsulated hydrogel shells and therapeutic gas cores. These are developed using microfluidic electrospray to treat pancreatic tumors. As the hydrogel shells are composed of thermo‐sensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), they can contract under mild hyperthermia generated by the acoustic‐wave‐induced oscillation of the encapsulated gas. Thus, by triggering with ultrasound, the chemotherapeutic Gemcitabine (Gem) encapsulated in the hydrogel shells and the hydrogen sulfide (H2S) encased in the cores can be controllably released. Based on the UDMs, it is demonstrated that the multiple drug‐loaded microcarriers exhibit an excellent tumor‐killing effect through combination therapy. The Gem and H2S coloaded UDMs have good therapeutic efficacy and adaptability in an orthotopic pancreatic implantation tumor model established in mice. These results indicate that the proposed UDMs have a large potential for codelivery of multiple drugs for treating deep‐seated tumors and for realizing combination drug treatment to avoid untoward reactions.
Inhaled Dry Powder Formulation of Tamibarotene, a Broad‐Spectrum Antiviral against Respiratory Viruses Including SARS‐CoV‐2 and Influenza Virus
Authors: Liao Qiuying , Yuan Shuofeng , Cao Jianli , Tang Kaiming , Qiu Yingshan , Seow Han Cong , Man Rico Chi‐Hang , Shao Zitong , Huang Yaoqiang , Liang Ronghui , Chan Jasper Fuk‐Woo , Yuen Kwok‐Yung , Lam Jenny Ka‐Wing
Published: June 2021

In response to the epidemic and pandemic threats caused by emerging respiratory viral infections, a safe and efficient broad‐spectrum antiviral therapy at early onset of infection can significantly improve patients’ outcome. Inhaled dry powder is easy to administer and delivers antiviral agent directly to the primary site of infection, thereby minimizing systemic side effects. Here, spray freeze drying (SFD) technique is employed to formulate tamibarotene, a retinoid derivative with broad‐spectrum antiviral activity, as inhalable powder. The SFD tamibarotene powder exhibits desirable physicochemical and aerodynamic properties for inhalation. Pulmonary delivery of tamibarotene powder results in rapid absorption and higher bioavailability compared with intraperitoneal injection of unformulated drug in animals. More importantly, inhalation or intranasal delivery of SFD tamibarotene formulation displays broad‐spectrum antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, and pandemic 2009 influenza A virus (H1N1) in mouse and hamster models by targeting lower or upper airways, and the efficacy is comparable or superior to the commercially available antivirals remdesivir and zanamivir against specific virus. These results present a promising strategy to combat various respiratory viral infections including SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza virus, or even co‐infection.
Bioinspired Multi‐Stimuli Responsive Actuators with Synergistic Color‐ and Morphing‐Change Abilities
Authors: Li Xinkai , Liu Jize , Li Dongdong , Huang Shaoquan , Huang Kai , Zhang Xinxing
Published: June 2021

The combination of complex perception, defense, and camouflage mechanisms is a pivotal instinctive ability that equips organisms with survival advantages. The simulations of such fascinating multi‐stimuli responsiveness, including thigmotropism, bioluminescence, color‐changing ability, and so on, are of great significance for scientists to develop novel biomimetic smart materials. However, most biomimetic color‐changing or luminescence materials can only realize a single stimulus‐response, hence the design and fabrication of multi‐stimuli responsive materials with synergistic color‐changing are still on the way. Here, a bioinspired multi‐stimuli responsive actuator with color‐ and morphing‐change abilities is developed by taking advantage of the assembled cellulose nanocrystals‐based cholesteric liquid crystal structure and its water/temperature response behaviors. The actuator exhibits superfast, reversible bi‐directional humidity and near‐infrared (NIR) light actuating ability (humidity: 9 s; NIR light: 16 s), accompanying with synergistic iridescent appearance which provides a visual cue for the movement of actuators. This work paves the way for biomimetic multi‐stimuli responsive materials and will have a wide range of applications such as optical anti‐counterfeiting devices, information storage materials, and smart soft robots.
Manipulating Crystallographic Orientation of Zinc Deposition for Dendrite‐free Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Cao Jin , Zhang Dongdong , Gu Chao , Wang Xiao , Wang Shanmin , Zhang Xinyu , Qin Jiaqian , Wu Zhong‐Shuai
Published: June 2021

The dendrite issues associated with zinc anode lead to safety hazards and sluggish reaction kinetics, and largely restrain widespread application of aqueous zinc ion batteries (ZIBs). Herein, a functional separator composed of cellulose nanofibers and graphene oxide (CG) is developed for dendrite‐free and exceptionally stable ZIBs, realized by uniform hexagonal zinc deposits with manipulated crystallographic orientation (002) plane. This CG separator with negative surface charges and abundant zincophilic‐O groups ensures the strong interaction between the separator and zinc species, simultaneously inducing Zn(002) deposition due to the low mismatch between (002)Zn and (002)GO, thus initiating the preferential orientation of the zinc growth along the horizontal direction due to strong Zn binding ability, and uniform interfacial charge of Zn(002) deposition. Furthermore, the CG separator can effectively promote the uniform nucleation of Zn2+ and eliminate side effects. Accordingly, extremely low polarization of 58 mV at 0.5 mA cm−2, and ultralong cycle life over 1750 h at 2 mA cm−2 and 400 h at 20 mA cm−2 are achieved for the zinc anode. Notably, the CG separator significantly boosts rate capability and cyclability of coin‐type full batteries (Zn||Zn(CF3SO3)2||V2O5, Zn||ZnSO4+MnSO4||MnO2/graphite) and a flexible soft‐packaged battery (Zn||MnO2). Therefore, this work introduces a sustainability consideration in to the design of separators for constructing dendrite‐free ZIBs.