bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theory of mind and problem behavior in people with intellectual disability
Authors: Cvijetić Marija , Đorđević Mirjana
Published: March 2021

Introduction. Behavioral problems are more common in people with intellectual disability than in typical population and present an obstacle to their adaptive functioning and social inclusion. Since adjusted social behavior requires, among other things, an adequate understanding and interpretation of thoughts and behavior of others, theory of mind could be one of the factors of adjusted behavior and behavioral problems in people with intellectual disability. Objective. The aim of this paper is to single out the research in which the issue of the relationship between the ability of theory of mind and behavioral problems of people with intellectual disabilities has been addressed, through a literature review. Methods. Insight into the available literature was performed by searching the electronic databases that are available through the services of the Serbian Library Consortium for Coordinated Acquisition - KOBSON, as well as through Google Scholar and Research Gate. Results. Based on the analyzed research results, it can be concluded that there is a negative correlation between theory of mind and behavioral problems, both in children and in adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities. While some studies have found a direct link between theory of mind and behavioral problems, others have found that this link is indirect, whereby the role of intermediaries tend to have executive functions, social acceptance, quality of parental interaction and resilience. Conclusion. Since the results of several studies suggest that more advanced theory of mind enables more successful social interactions and more adjusted behavior, it is necessary to enrich the education of people with intellectual disability with contents related to understanding thoughts, emotions, desires and intentions, as one of the elements of approach to treatment, in order to prevent problematic behaviors.
Utilizing landsat-8 sensor operational land image data for hydrothermal alteration mapping within Anka Schist Belt, northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Aliyu Ohinowi , Aliyu Kankara
Published: March 2021

Exploring for mineral deposits within the Anka Schist Belt involves the use of traditional geological techniques such as geochemical and geophysical studies that are very expensive and time consuming. There is therefore need for a better alternative that will provide accurate and reliable information with cost effective and time efficient solution. This effort seeks to explore the potential of remotely sensed digital data in highlighting mineralized zones through hydrothermal alteration studies. Landsat 8 OLI data covering the investigated area was used to detect and map locations of hydrothermal alterations. Image processing methods used were spectral enhancement, false colour composites, band rationing and Principal Component Analysis. Results of false colour composites of band 5: 7: 3 highlighted generally locations of hydrothermal alterations. Band ratios of 4/2, 6/7 and 6/5 revealed the presence of ferric iron minerals, clay rich minerals and ferrous minerals respectively. Principal Components (PCs) of two sets of images (2, 4, 5, 7 H-image and 2,5,6,7 F-image) depicting iron-oxide and hydroxyl mineral deposits as bright pixels were generated. Colour composite of H, F and H+F images enhanced the location of the mineral deposits, by showing areas of mineralization in dark blue (Fe rich), bright yellow (clay rich) and white (Fe and clay rich areas) pixels. Field coordinates of mining locations were superimposed on the remote sensing generated mineral map. The results were found to be in tune. This study recommends the use of remote sensing and geospatial technology in mineral studies through hydrothermal alteration within the basement complex rocks of Nigeria.
Teatro e Memória: Uma análise de Caranguejo Overdrive
Authors: Monteiro Gabriela Lirio Gurgel
Published: March 2021

O que pode, nesse momento, as artes da cena? A imagem é a de um barco à deriva no oceano, no qual os tripulantes festejam a própria sorte (ou será a morte?), em um pacto coletivo no contrafluxo da vida. Com essa imagem, reflexo do momento político brasileiro, analiso Caranguejo Overdrive, dirigido por Marco André Nunes, com dramaturgia de Pedro Kosovski. Interessa investigar os motivos pelos quais foi censurado em 2019 e a relevância do debate sobre arte e memória histórica. Para isso, retomo o conceito de entrelugar do discurso latino-americano, desenvolvido por Silviano Santiago, em artigo dos anos 70, e sua revisitação quarenta anos depois, apontando para uma espiral do tempo, na qual o espetáculo nos convoca a retornar ao nosso mangue, a revolver nossos rastros e a reinventar o tempo que chega.
Les jeunes Algériens face à une politique d’emploi démesurée : les programmes d’insertion professionnelle et sociale soutiennent la précarité
Authors: Ahouari Zahir
Published: March 2021

À partir d’une enquête qualitative auprès d’un panel de jeunes bénéficiaires de l’un des dispositifs de lutte contre le chômage, mis en place par l’État algérien depuis les années 1990, cette contribution tente de comprendre pourquoi les mesures de création de microentreprises et les programmes d’insertion des diplômés perpétuent la précarité chez les jeunes les plus vulnérables et quelles sont les formes de résistance adoptées par ces derniers pour y faire face. L’étude a démontré qu’en dépit de l’opportunité d’accès au monde du travail offerte aux jeunes primodemandeurs d’emploi, les dispositifs d’insertion des diplômés ne permettent pas une stabilité de l’emploi, notamment chez les femmes qui se trouvent dans une situation sociale ambiguë, où elles doivent doubler les efforts fournis et mener un double combat. Cependant, la famille joue un rôle primordial dans la réussite ou l’échec des jeunes dans la réalisation de leurs projets engagés dans le cadre de dispositif de création de microentreprises. Mais l’omniprésence de la mentalité rentière dans la pensée sociale a un effet négatif sur l’état d’esprit des jeunes créateurs d’entreprises. Enfin, nous estimons que les programmes d’insertion des diplômés et les dispositifs de création de microentreprises ne sont pas économiques, mais plutôt politiques et le gouvernement ne fait qu’acheter la paix sociale en redistribuant une partie de la rente.
« J’ai travaillé pendant 17 ans pour fuck all »
Authors: Boucher Marie-Pierre , Desbiens Anthony , Dupuis Marie-Josée , Gagné Diane , Noiseux Yanick
Published: March 2021

Tiré de huit entretiens de groupe réalisés en 2018 au Québec, auprès de 44
personnes assistées sociales, cet article présente les raisons données par les
participant.e.s pour expliquer leurs difficultés d’accès au marché du travail. Deux angles
d’analyse ont été adoptés. Le premier est celui du rapport au travail. Combiné à la
perspective des parcours de vie, le concept de rapport au travail a été mobilisé afin de
saisir, de façon dynamique, ce que pensent les individus du travail et de mieux comprendre
les valeurs qu’ils y rattachent, tout en tenant compte de leurs expériences du travail et de
celles vécues hors du monde du travail. Le second angle d’analyse mobilisé permet de revenir
sur les parcours de vie, d’emploi et d’assistance en termes d’épreuves vécues et de
barrières à l’emploi. Les résultats de recherche mettent en lumière l’ambivalence des
personnes assistées sociales interrogées devant les mesures d’activation leur étant
proposées, et ce, malgré une volonté de retourner sur le marché du travail : les
participant.e.s s’en méfient notamment parce qu’elles les cantonnent dans des emplois
précaires et des parcours circulaires, limitant leur capacité à s’engager dans une
trajectoire ascendante. L’enquête montre également que les pratiques discriminantes des
employeurs, tout comme le système d’aide sociale, notamment parce qu’il les maintient dans
la grande pauvreté, constituent d’importantes barrières à l’emploi limitant leur accès au
marché du travail.
Mediating effect of relational capabilities in the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and SMEs performance
Authors:   Master of Management Department. Postgraduated Program. Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta. Brawijaya Road. Bantul. Yogyakarta City. 55183. Indonesia, e-mail: nuryakin@umy.ac.id, - Nuryakin
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The aim of this research is to analyze empirical evidence of the effect of entrepreneurial orientations on SMEs' business performance. The previous study found that entrepreneurial orientation became an important key for an entrepreneur to enhance business performance. This study also examined the role of relational capabilities as an intervening variable to achieve business performance. Methodology: The sample in this study was the furniture SMEs in the region of central Java with a sample size of 208 SMEs. This study used purposive sampling methods. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to test results of the data analysis with the help of software AMOS/Amos Graph. Findings: The results of the study showed that entrepreneurial orientation has a significant positive effect on business performance. Entrepreneurial orientation has a significant positive effect on relational capabilities. Relational capabilities are mediated the positive relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and business performance significantly. Implications for theory and practice: The results of this study indicate the effect of entrepreneurial orientation on business performance and relational capabilities and mediating role of relational capabilities. Therefore, SMEs ought to develop relational capabilities with SMEs networks through strengthening entrepreneurial orientation to achieve SMEs' performance. Originality and value: The main contribution of the study from the combination of entrepreneurial orientation and relational capabilities of SMEs to enhance business performance.
How journalism experience translates to social entrepreneurship: An intention formation study of the Art Yard at Dadaocheng in Taiwan
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Communications Management, Shih Hsin University, Taipei, No. 1, Ln. 17, Sec. 1, Muzha Rd., Wenshan Dist., Taipei City 116, Taiwan, Liu Huei-Ching ,   e-mail: audrey@mail.shu.edu.tw, Liang Chaoyun ,   Ph.D., Distinguished Professor, Department of Bio-Industry Communication and Development, National Taiwan University, Taipei, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan; e-mail: cliang@ntu.edu.tw
Published: March 2021

Purpose: In this study, the story of the Art Yard at Dadaocheng, Taipei, Taiwan, was adopted as a case study. We thoroughly investigated the founder, a former television reporter, and her social entrepreneurial intention (SEI) to initiate a social enterprise. Methodology: By integrating the two classic models of entrepreneurship intention, entrepreneurial event theory and theory of planned behavior, we investigated the antecedents of SEI (i.e., empathy, entrepreneurial alertness, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, social responsibility, and social capital and support). Findings: The founder possessed capability of communication and coordination because of her professional journalism experience and successfully introduced her passionate empathy and profound sense of social responsibility into her entrepreneurial aspirations. Her entrepreneurial alertness and self-disciplined entrepreneurial self-efficacy originated from in-service education and inspiration through action. Social networks accumulated during her journalism career did not represent the primary source of support when establishing her social enterprise. In this research, two additional antecedents of SEI were identified: knowledge capital and work experience. Implications for theory and practice: Social entrepreneurial attitudes can be developed on the basis of passionate empathy and social entrepreneurial alertness is required to address the professional development needs in service programs. Social entrepreneurial self-efficacy in communication and marketing management is closely associated with the journalism profession, and the journalistic passion for social justice can motivate social responsibility activities. Careful selection, maintenance, and transformation of business partners for social support are essential. Originality and value: A new SEI theory was subsequently proposed for future research, and practical implications were addressed for social entrepreneurship.
Case Studies on Neural Networks for Recognition in Biometric Identity Problem
Authors:   School of Information and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology. Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221006, China, Shen Zhengwen , Wang Jun ,   School of Information and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology. Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221006, China, Pan Zaiyu ,   School of Information and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology. Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221006, China, Yang Kai ,   School of Information and Electrical Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology. Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221006, China
Published: March 2021

Hand-dorsa vein recognition using a convolutional neural network is presented. Our network contains five convolutional layers and three full connected layers, which have high recognition and more robust. The experimental results on the self-established database with the proposed CNN achieves 98.02% in training part and 97.65% in testing part, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed CNN.
Attrition of Oral Communicative Ability among English Language Graduates in Turkey
Authors: Valizadeh Mohammadreza
Published: March 2021

This study explored the relationship between the period of Turkish EFL (English as a Foreign Language) graduates’ not using English as well as their ages with the attrition of their oral communicative ability. The study also indicated the language maintenance strategies the Turkish EFL graduates pursue to prevent the attrition of their oral communicative ability. To investigate the issues, the present study used a quantitative design and the convenience sampling. The participants included 153 Turkish graduates majoring in English fields. A test of oral communicative ability as well as a checklist including 20 ‘Language Maintenance Strategies’ were used to collect the required data. The results showed that the longer the period of language non-use, the more likely the attrition of oral communicative abilities of Turkish EFL graduates will occur. As for the language maintenance strategies, the item ‘watching movies with its corresponding subtitle in English’ was the most frequent, followed by ‘listening to English songs’, whereas ‘speaking in English with Turkish friends’ was the least frequent one, and this was followed by ‘speaking in English with foreigners’. The study highly recommends enhancing the conditions and quality of the EFL teacher education programs in Turkey.
Influence of Hurdle Applications on the Storage Stability of Dambu-nama
Authors: Eke M. O. , Ariahu C. C. , Abu J. O.
Published: March 2021

The microbiological, physico-chemical, sensory and storage characteristics of dambu-nama (DN) as influenced by addition of citric acid, salt and sugar as hurdles were investigated. Preliminary sensory evaluation suggested that at citric acid level above 0.3%, sugar and salt levels above 2% each, the products were either too harsh or sweet for acceptance. Four products comprising DN with 0.1% citric acid + 2% salt and 2% sugar (DNC0.1), DN+ 0.2% citric + 2% salt + 2% sugar (DNC0.2), DN + 0.3% citric acid + 2% salt + 2% sugar (DNC0.3) and a control DN without citric acid , salt or sugar (DNC0) were produced and subjected to microbiological, sensory and storage analyses. Treatment of dambu-nama with the hurdles resulted in significant (p< 0.05) decrease in total plate and mould counts. Thiobarbituric acid, tyrosine and total plate counts varied very little with no definite trend, there by ruling out their use as possible indices of quality. The pH of dambu-nama exhibited a slow but definite decline with storage. The decrease in pH was best described by first order reaction kinetics (r2 ≥ 0.987) and adequately by the Arrhenius activated energy complex theory (r2 ≥ 0.991) with activation energies (kJ/mol) of 32.6 (DNC0), 27.6 (DNC0.1), 23.1 (DNC0.2) and 54.5 (DNC0.3), respectively. Treatment with the hurdles increased shelf-life of dambu-nama by a factor of 2.3 to 8.4 with shelf-life (wks) of 7.7 to 4.3 (DNC0), 17.8 to 10.3 (DNC0.1), 33.3 to 21.0 (DNC0.2) and 64.9 to 27.9 (DNC0.3), respectively for storage at 20 to 35oC. The objective of this study thus was to investigate quality changes in dambu-nama during normal and accelerated storage as influenced by the hurdles with the purpose of shelf-lives predictions.
Measuring Livelihood Vulnerability to Large-Scale and Small-Scale Mining in Rural Ghana: A Comparative Examination of Agrarian Households
Authors: Abankwah Vincent
Published: March 2021

While promoting both large-scale and small-scale mining to facilitate rural development and poverty reduction, it becomes imperative to examine the level of exposure and the risk of mining on assets and livelihoods of agrarian households in mining communities. The study was, therefore, designed to examine the differential effect of the risk of large-scale and small-scale mining on livelihoods of agrarian households. The study covered five regions of Ghana namely, Ashanti, Eastern, Western, Central and Brong-Ahafo Regions, where both large-scale and small-scale mining are pervasive.  A two-stage sampling technique was used to sample 864 agrarian households in the study area for primary data. The 864 households comprised 432 households selected from 36 communities which are exclusively exposed to the activities of large-scale mining and 432 households selected from 36 communities exclusively exposed to the activities of small-scale mining. Household livelihood vulnerability (HLV) index was used to measure livelihood vulnerability to the risk of mining. The study established that though agrarian households are susceptible to both large-scale and small-scale mining, assets and livelihoods of such households are more vulnerable to the                 risk of large-scale mining than small-scale mining. Emanating from the study are recommendations to reduce household livelihood vulnerability to both large-scale and small-scale mining and facilitate livelihood development among agrarian households in mining communities of rural Ghana.
In Vitro Regeneration of Onion (Allium cepa L.) Genotypes under Salt Stress Condition
Authors: Plabon Asfiqur Rahman , Hoque M. E. , Vabna Farhana Afrin , Khatun Fahima
Published: March 2021

Salinity is a major problem affecting crop production all over the world. Excessive soil salinity can reduce the productivity of many agricultural crops including many vegetables and spices. Onion is one of the most important spices in the Asiatic region which is now in high demand. The experiment was conducted to observe in vitro regeneration of onion (Allium cepa L.) under salt stress condition from September 2016 to July 2017. The experiment was conducted as two factorial (genotype and treatment) Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 3 replications for each treatment. Shoot tip segments of three genotypes namely Faridpuri, Taherpuri and Pusa red (Indian) were cultured in MS (Murashige and skoog, 1962) media supplemented with 25, 50, 75 and 100 mM NaCl. The genotype Faridpuri gave maximum salt tolerance upto 100 mM salinity level with 10.60 cm shoot length and 1.94 cm root length having the highest relative shoot and root growth. Pusa red was found to be salinity sensitive genotype which showing lowest shoot length of 7.03 cm and root length of 0.96 cm at 100 mM NaCl treatment. However, Taherpuri was tolerant up to 100 mM salinity level with 8.14 cm shoot length and 1.25 cm root length. Both the highest fresh weight of root (54.77 mg) and dry weight of root (41.36 mg) was from the genotype Faridpuri with 25 mM NaCl treatment. However, a convenient in vitro regeneration protocol of onion genotypes under different salinity level has been developed and the genotype Faridpuri can be used for further investigation in field condition to evaluate its performance at various salinity levels.
Reproductive Morbidities and Treatment Seeking Behaviour among Rural Women in Manipur-Community Based Study
Authors: Aimol Kh. Ringsuachong , Phukan Minoti
Published: March 2021

Reproductive morbidity is a public health problem that affects the health and well being of women’s life around the world. The magnitude of reproductive problems of women both at national and global is high. In this paper, an attempt was made to assess the self reported reproductive morbidities, treatment seeking behavior and factors influencing reproductive health among two communities of women in Manipur. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected from two hundred fifty women in the age group of 18 to 40 years by using in-depth interview and focus discussion methods. Analysis revealed that a large number of women (71.6%) had at least one or two kinds of reproductive health problems. The predominant reproductive health problems reported by the respondents were menstrual related problems (53%), urinary tract infection (51%) and white discharge with bad odour and itching (41%). Prevalence of unintended pregnancy was found among 24 per cent of the selected respondents. Income, standard of living, abortion history, number of pregnancy and number of living children have significant factors influencing reproductive health of the respondents. Treatment seeking behavior was poor as they are not aware about the consequences of reproductive ill health. Further, higher proportions of the tribal women reported symptoms of reproductive health problem compared to the non-tribal. The study felt the need to provide information on effect of reproductive health problems through awareness camp at village level in order to increase knowledge and practices of good reproductive health of women.
Indigenous Knowledge Affords Antimicrobial Plants for the Management of Infections
Authors: Alake John , Akwetey Samuel A. , Ahlidja Wisdom , Armah Francis A. , Amponsah Isaac Kingsley
Published: March 2021

Aim: The research was carried out to ascertain the antimicrobial effect of the plants Omphalocarpum ahia, Homalium letestui, and Coelocaryon oxycarpum, which are used locally to treat some infectious diseases.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana and Department of Herbal Medicine, KNUST, Ghana from June to August 2014.

Method: The stem barks of the plants were extracted with 70 % methanol and successively partitioned with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, methanol to obtain three different fractions. The antimicrobial activities of the extracts and fraction against MRSA, S. typhi, E. coli, S. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, E. faecalis, and S. aureus were determined using the disk diffusion method and the minimum inhibition concentration by the serial microplate dilution method with 0.2 mg/ml p-iodonitrotetrazolium as growth indicator whereas gentamycin was used as the positive control. Phytochemical tests on the plant materials were done according to standard methods.

Result:  All the fractions of each plant had activity against some of the bacteria. Ethyl acetate (EA) and hydro-methanolic (CE) extracts of Coelocaryon oxycarpum exhibited activity against all selected bacteria with MIC ranging from 0.625-5 mg/ml for CE and 0.3125-5 mg/ml for EA. Hydro-methanolic (CE) extracts of Omphalocarpum ahia also exhibited antibacterial activity against all the selected bacteria.

Conclusion: The current research showed that Omphalocarpum ahia and Coelocaryon oxycarpum have considerable antimicrobial activity against all the strains used in the study. Local knowledge may afford lead materials for the development of novel antimicrobial agents.
Isolation of Metallo Beta Lactamases from Clinical Sample (MBL)
Authors: Chandraker Jashmi , Saraf Ashish , Chandraker Sachin , Dubey Kanupriya
Published: March 2021

The rapid spread of acquired metallo-beta-lactamases (MBLs) among major Gram-negative pathogens is an emerging threat and a matter of particular concern worldwide. Carbapenems are among the  few useful antibiotics against gram negative bacteria particularly those  with extended spectrum beta-lactamase. Resistant to carbapenem is mediated by loss of outer membrane proteins and production of beta lactamase that is capable of hydrolyzing carbapenems.During this study period, 80 different clinical samples were collected from various hospitals of Raipur. All clinical samples were processed according to standard microbiological methods. Isolated GNRs were subjected to susceptibility testing against antibiotics by disc diffusion method according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.  Carbapenem-resistant isolates were subjected to the detection of MBL production by different methods.  Out of 80 samples, 28 (35%) samples showed significant growth. MBL production was observed in 20 samples.
Mitigating Wire Short Defect on LGA Device through Substrate Design Optimization
Authors: Pulido J. , Rodriguez R. , Gomez F. R. , Jr. E. Graycochea
Published: March 2021

During new product development of a substrate land grid array (LGA) device, issues were encountered at wirebonding process due to design constraints. This paper is focused on addressing the wire-to-wire short defect during wirebonding process of the first bond. Wirebond process optimization was comprehensively employed, but eventually recommended to have a substrate redesign with relocated bond fingers to increase the wire angle (less steep) between the first bond and the second bond. With the improvement done in the substrate design and through wirebond process optimization, wire-to-wire short defect occurrence was successfully eliminated.
Multidisciplinary Work Approach to Phytomedicines Research and Development (R&D) in Nigeria – Experts’ Opinion
Authors: Adigwe Obi Peter , Egharevba Henry Omoregie , Kunle Olobayo Olufunso
Published: March 2021

Modern drug development strategy involves the use of computer aided in silico studies, bioinformatics, and nanotechnology, to predict and simulate drug metabolism, safety and efficacy. The entire process requires molecular targeting, isolation, purification, synthesis through biotechnology or chemosynthesis, formulation, and determination of safety, efficacy and process efficiency. This has brought scientist from diverse background together toward a common curse of mutually beneficial innovative research approach. For phytomedicine research, this diversity requires professionals from different field such as the botany, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, pharmacy and medicine.  Each of these fields also contains various specializations and specific research focus. This study looked at Expert opinion on multidisciplinary approach to innovative phytomedicine R&D in Nigeria. The analysis presented represents the opinion of Experts who responded to the study questionnaire. 53% of Experts believed that multidisciplinary collaboration is very productive while 39% believed it is productive. The level of phytomedicine R&D in Nigeria is believed to be poor by majority (56%) of respondents. The Experts believed that multidisciplinary R&D approach will lead to more reliable data, inclusiveness, process efficiency and better R&D outcome, results/products acceptability. Multidisciplinary R&D approach should be encouraged in Nigeria through adequate funding and policy framework.
Development and Characterization of Anti-alzheimer Drug-loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles for the Enhanced Penetration of Blood Brain Barrier
Authors: Raja Maria Abdul Ghafoor , Amjad Muhammad Wahab , Alotaibi Nawaf Mohamed
Published: March 2021

Nanotechnology facilitated drug delivery has been used to enhance the drug bioavailability, efficacy, reduce toxicity and improve patient compliance aiming to targetthe cells and tissues to produce anticipated pharmacological action. The aim of the present study was to formulate and evaluate rivastigmine (RT) loaded chitosan (CS) nanoparticles for sustained release. RT is a short actingreversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor used for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. In current research RT loaded CS-tripolyphosphate (TPP) nanoparticles were prepared by usingionic gelation method in fourdifferent polymer concentrations (0.1%,0.2%,0.3%,0.4%). The prepared nanoparticles were evaluated by Zeta sizer in order to determine particle size, PDI and zeta potential. Further, drug entrapment efficiency and in vitro release studies were carried out. The results showed that particle size decreased by loading drug within nanoparticles when compared with unloaded nanoparticles. The particle size of RT loaded CS nanoparticles ranged from 125.9 ± 2.5 to 356.0 ± 7.9 by varying CS concentration from 0.1% to 0.4% w/v. Among different ratios studied, 0.4% ratio showed highest drug entrapment efficiency (80%). In vitro release studies showed that RT loaded CS nanoparticles could sustain release the drug.In conclusion, the current research results showed that the chitosan nanoparticles can be used as a potential carrier for providing sustained delivery of RT.
Prevalence of Obesity and Trends of Body Mass Index in Azad Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Abbas Kamran , Gill Sajjad Ali , Sherwani Rehan Ahmed Khan , Qazi Tabinda , Feroze Naveed , Adil Rana , Shahid Hira
Published: March 2021

In the present study an attempt has been made to figure out the remarkable factors that were responsible for higher body mass index (BMI) and obesity as well as to observe the existing trends of BMI in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The factors were age, sex, diabetes, blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, blood glucose and random glucose. The statistical analysis with both classical and Bayesian methodologies was carried out for the investigation of significant risk factors. The results showed that with the increase in age the BMI also increases i.e., respondents of age group > 60 have the highest percentage of 82.76% for BMI. Moreover, it was found that except sex and blood pressure all other factors had significant association with BMI. Additionally, four factors namely, age, diabetes, total cholesterol and triglycerides were selected for the development of the parsimonious model of BMI based on generalized linear model, step wise regression and Bayesian model averaging.
Controlled Release Technology, Agricultural
Authors: Guimarães Gelton G. F. , Ribeiro Caue
Published: March 2021

Since the past century, fertilizers have been significantly contributing to the increase in food production. Currently, the fertilizer sector's technological advances are crucial to providing food for more than 7.7 billion people. However, factors related to the low fertilizers' agronomic efficiency limit the food supply. The conventional fertilization frequently leads to low uptake of nutrients by crop, which results in economic and environmental losses. In recent decades, efforts have been invested in developing new technologies that increase the nutrients uptake by plants and reduce the environmental impacts of their release to the environment. The growing use of controlled‐release fertilizers is an example of these technologies in recent years. This technology aims to improve the synchrony between the supply of nutrients and the demand of the plants. Besides, it reduces the application frequency and increases the efficiency of fertilization more economically and sustainably.

In addition to the technologies/fertilizers already established in the current market, several novel technologies have been specially designed for an adequate release of fertilizers, including ion‐exchange materials, coatings, and high‐adsorption capacity materials. Novel technologies include nanoparticulate fertilizers and nanocomposites, where size and structure control the solubilization. Consequently, the nutrient is available for plants in a synchronized way, avoiding losses to the environment. Therefore, this article summarizes the available and in‐development technologies for slow and controlled release of fertilizers, with a perspective view of novel products. This portfolio of solutions represents alternatives for agriculture, possibly used with traditional (established) technologies to provide sustainable agriculture routes in the next years.
Waste Management, Radioactive
Authors: Ikeda Brian M.
Published: March 2021

Radioactive waste consists of items and materials that are no longer useful and contain harmful amounts of radioactive material. The waste could emit α‐, β‐, γ‐radiation, or any combination of these types of radiation. If the concentration of radioactive elements is high enough, contact with the waste could be detrimental to human health and a danger to the environment. To help identify the hazard, radioactive waste is classified as high, intermediate, and low level waste, depending on the concentration of radioactive species and the half‐life of those species. High level radioactive waste poses the greatest hazard, while low level presents the smallest hazard. In this article, the types of wastes and examples of the waste are described, some of the important principles for managing the waste are noted, and the general methods for minimizing the hazard to human health and the environment while storing and disposing of the waste are explained.
Effectiveness of Nonsurgical Interventions for Hallux Valgus: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hurn Sheree E. , Matthews Barry G. , Munteanu Shannon E. , Menz Hylton B.
Published: March 2021

Objective

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis investigating the effectiveness of nonsurgical interventions for hallux valgus (HV).

Methods

Medline, CINAHL, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched to April 2020, including parallel‐group and crossover studies investigating nonsurgical interventions for HV. Two reviewers independently screened articles for inclusion, extracted data, determined risk of bias, and made assessments using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. Risk of bias was assessed using version 2 of the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool. Effect sizes (mean differences or risk ratios, and 95% confidence intervals) were calculated and pooled where possible for the primary outcomes, foot pain, and HV angle.

Results

Eighteen included studies investigated a wide range of nonsurgical interventions for HV. Most studies had small sample sizes and concerns regarding risk of bias. Five separate meta‐analyses for foot orthoses, splints, manual therapy, and taping added to foot exercises showed no significant effects on primary outcomes. However, results from 8 studies showed a significant pain reduction with the use of foot orthoses, night splints, dynamic splints, manual therapy, taping added to foot exercises, a multifaceted physical therapy program, and Botox injections. Four studies reported a clinically significant reduction in HV angle with night splints, foot exercises, multifaceted physical therapy, and Botox injections.

Conclusion

There is a low level of certainty surrounding the effectiveness of nonsurgical interventions for HV, but a reduction in pain appears more likely than improvement in HV angle.
Crystallinity and Orientation Manipulation of Anthracene Diimide Polymers for All‐Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Tu Dandan , Feng Zhendong , Feng Zhaochi , Guo Xin , Li Can
Published: March 2021

Electron‐carrying polymers are highly desired for various optoelectronic applications but are still scarce. Herein, two anthracene diimide (ADI) polymers with thiophene and bithiophene as comonomer, respectively, are reported as electron acceptor materials in all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs) for the first time. Effects of crystallinity and orientation of two polymer films as well as their blends with different donor polymers on photovoltaic properties are elaborately investigated by grazing‐incidence X‐ray diffraction and photo‐induced force microscopy. It is found that molecular crystallinity and orientation determine the blend film morphology, and the similar high crystallinity and the same face‐on orientation of donor and acceptor polymers are favorable for obtaining excellent photovoltaic performances. With this principle, a suitable donor polymer is singled out to match with the ADI acceptor polymer, offering an impressive efficiency of ≈7% for all‐PSCs. This work demonstrates that ADI polymers are promising as acceptor materials and provides guidelines for screening donor and acceptor polymer combinations for all‐PSCs.
Confinement Capillarity of Thin Coating for Boosting Solar‐Driven Water Evaporation
Authors: Wang Zhenxing , Wu Xiaochun , He Fang , Peng Shaoqin , Li Yuexiang
Published: March 2021

Realizing ultrathin water and generating an abundant water/air interface in the interconnected pores of photothermal materials is an effective way to boost the solar‐driven water evaporation rate, but still a great challenge. Herein, confinement capillarity (CC) of photothermal thin coating on porous sponge for significantly enhancing the solar‐driven water evaporation is proposed. The thin coating is composed of abundant agminated black/hydrophilic nanoparticles (BHNPs), and the channels among the BHNPs can generate strong capillarity for water transportation. Water can be spontaneously limited and transported among the agminated nanoparticles, rather than fill in the interconnected pores of the sponge. Thus, ultrathin water layer can be realized on the outer/inner surface of the sponge skeleton, without precisely controlling water supply. The thin water layer can not only expose as much evaporation area as possible by increasing the vapor escape channel, but also prevent solar energy to heat excess water. Thanks to the CC, the rate of solar steam generation can be greatly improved. Moreover, the photothermal material with CC can maintain its high evaporation rate during the whole day, and can remove the salt during night time, highlighting its recyclability and anti‐salt‐accumulation property. Moreover, the CC can be readily scaled up for practical applications.
Ultra‐Stretchable, Variable Modulus, Shape Memory Multi‐Purpose Low Hysteresis Hydrogel Derived from Solvent‐Induced Dynamic Micelle Sea‐Island Structure
Authors: Li Yanyan , Wang Dingqian , Wen Jie , Liu Jinming , Zhang Dongyue , Li Jianshu , Chu Hetao
Published: March 2021

The rapid development of sensors and soft robotics has substantially increased the demand for unique hydrogels with diverse high performance. However, it remains a challenge to prepare a multi‐purpose hydrogel via a facile approach. By virtue of copolymerization of acrylamide (AM) and acryloyl Pluronic 127 (PF127‐DA), a novel type of ultra‐stretchable (435–2716%, 10–40 wt%), variable modulus (0.36–112.79 MPa, 30 wt%), tough (1.13–7.17 MJ m−3, 10–40 wt%), low hysteresis (about 10%, 30 wt%), transparent (27.98–83.78%, 10–40 wt%), and shape memory (fixation ratio up to 97%, recovery ratio up to 100%, 10 wt%) hydrogels derived from dynamic micelle sea‐island structure are prepared. The new strategy of using solvent‐induced crystallization of the polyethylene oxide segments of PF127‐DA molecular chain and matrix volume phase transition to achieve variable modulus and shape memory is a purely physical process that can be performed cyclically. Notably, this design reflects the important role of PF127‐DA micelles in optimizing mechanical properties and intelligence. Additionally, PAM/PF127 hydrogels display a high sensitivity toward deformability, elasticity, solvent‐induced shape memory, and variable modulus properties by which it can be used for stress sensors, damping pads, and mechanical bearing. These novel types of hydrogels could be applicable into multifunctional and adaptive platforms.
A Self‐Healing Volume Variation Three‐Dimensional Continuous Bulk Porous Bismuth for Ultrafast Sodium Storage
Authors: Cheng Xiaolong , Shao Ruiwen , Li Dongjun , Yang Hai , Wu Ying , Wang Bin , Sun Chunhao , Jiang Yu , Zhang Qiaobao , Yu Yan
Published: March 2021

Bismuth (Bi) has attracted considerable attention as promising anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs) owing to its suitable reaction potential and high volumetric capacity density (3750 mA h cm−3). However, the large volumetric expansion during cycling causes severe structural degradation and fast capacity decay. Herein, by rational design, a self‐healing nanostructure 3D continuous bulk porous bismuth (3DPBi) is prepared via facile liquid phase reduction reaction. The 3D interconnected Bi nanoligaments provide unblocked electronic circuits and short ion diffusion path. Meanwhile, the bicontinuous nanoporous network can realize self‐healing the huge volume variation as confirmed by in situ and ex situ transmission electron microscopy observations. When used as the anode for NIBs, the 3DPBi delivers unprecedented rate capability (high capacity retention of 95.6% at an ultrahigh current density of 60 A g−1 with respect to 1 A g−1) and long‐cycle life (high capacity of 378 mA h g−1 remained after 3000 cycles at 10 A g−1). In addition, the full cell of Na3V2(PO4)3|3DPBi delivers stable cycling performance and high gravimetric energy density (116 Wh kg−1), demonstrating its potential in practical application.
A Complexing Agent to Enable a Wide‐Temperature Range Bromine‐Based Flow Battery for Stationary Energy Storage
Authors: Li Xianjin , Li Tianyu , Xu Pengcheng , Xie Congxin , Zhang Yunhe , Li Xianfeng
Published: March 2021

Bromine‐based flow batteries (Br‐FBs) are considered one of the most promising energy storage systems due to their features of high energy density and low cost. However, they generally suffer from uncontrolled diffusion of corrosive bromine particularly at high temperatures. That is because the interaction between polybromide anions and the commonly used complexing agent (N–methyl–N–ethyl–pyrrolidinium bromide [MEP]) decreases with increasing temperatures, which causes serious self‐discharge and capacity fade. Herein, a novel bromine complexing agent, 1–ethyl–2–methyl–pyridinium bromide (BCA), is introduced in Br‐FBs to solve the above problems. It is proven that BCA can combine with polybromide anions very well even at a high temperature of 60 °C. Moreover, the BCA contributes to decreasing the electrochemical polarization of Br−/Br2 couple, which in turn improves their power density. As a result, a zinc–bromine flow battery with BCA as the complexing agent can achieve a high energy efficiency of 84% at 40 mA cm−2, even at high temperature of 60 °C and it can stably run for more than 400 cycles without obvious performance decay. This paper provides an effective complexing agent to enable a wide temperature range Br‐FB.
Flexible Magnetoreceptor with Tunable Intrinsic Logic for On‐Skin Touchless Human‐Machine Interfaces
Authors: Makushko Pavlo , Oliveros Mata Eduardo Sergio , Cañón Bermúdez Gilbert Santiago , Hassan Mariam , Laureti Sara , Rinaldi Christian , Fagiani Federico , Barucca Gianni , Schmidt Nataliia , Zabila Yevhen , Kosub Tobias , Illing Rico , Volkov Oleksii , Vladymyrskyi Igor , Fassbender Jürgen , Albrecht Manfred , Varvaro Gaspare , Makarov Denys
Published: March 2021

Artificial magnetoception is a new and yet to be explored path for humans to interact with the surroundings. This technology is enabled by thin film magnetic field sensors embedded in a soft and flexible format to constitute magnetosensitive electronic skins (e‐skins). Being limited by the sensitivity to in‐plane magnetic fields, magnetosensitive e‐skins are restricted to basic proximity and angle sensing and are not used as switches or logic elements of interactive wearable electronics. Here, a novel magnetoreceptive platform for on‐skin touchless interactive electronics based on flexible spin valve switches with sensitivity to out‐of‐plane magnetic fields is demonstrated. The technology relies on all‐metal Co/Pd‐based spin valves with a synthetic antiferromagnet possessing perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. The flexible magnetoreceptors act as logic elements, namely momentary and permanent (latching) switches. The switches maintain their performance even upon bending to a radius of less than 3.5 mm and withstand repetitive bending for hundreds of cycles. Here, flexible switches are integrated in on‐skin interactive electronics and their performance as touchless human‐machine interfaces is demonstrated, which are intuitive to use, energy efficient, and insensitive to external magnetic disturbances. This technology offers qualitatively new functionalities for electronic skins and paves the way towards full‐fledged on‐skin touchless interactive electronics.
Engineering Permanent Porosity into Liquids
Authors: Jie Kecheng , Zhou Yujuan , Ryan Hugh P. , Dai Sheng , Nitschke Jonathan R.
Published: March 2021

The possibility of engineering well‐defined pores into liquid materials is fascinating from both a conceptual and an applications point of view. Although the concept of porous liquids was proposed in 2007, these materials had remained hypothetical due to the technical challenges associated with their synthesis. Over the past five years, however, reports of the successful construction of porous liquids based on existing porous scaffolds, such as coordination cages, organic cages, metal–organic frameworks, porous carbons, zeolites, and porous polymers, have started to emerge. Here, the focus is on these early reports of porous liquids as prototypes in the field, classified according to the previously defined types of porous liquids. Particular attention will be paid to design strategies and structure–property relationships. Porous liquids have already exhibited promising applications in gas storage, transportation, and chemical separations. Thus, they show great potential for use in the chemical industry. The challenges of preparation, scale‐up, volatility, thermal and chemical stability, and competition with porous solids will also be discussed.
Synergistic Effect of Cu,F‐Codoping of Titanium Dioxide for Multifunctional Catalytic and Photocatalytic Studies
Authors: Díaz‐Sánchez Miguel , Murgu Roxana Nicoleta , Díaz‐García Diana , Méndez‐Arriaga José M. , Prashar Sanjiv , Urbán Béla , Pinkas Jiří , Lamač Martin , Horáček Michal , Gómez‐Ruiz Santiago
Published: March 2021

Titanium dioxide nanomaterials with improved catalytic and photocatalytic properties through codoping with copper and fluorine are synthesized and contain optimal textural and compositional properties, which are not possible without doping or with a single doping of Cu or F separately. The codoped systems promote the generation of a synergistic effect increasing activity of the systems in photocatalytic processes of both potential environmental or energy interest. The photocatalysts show very effective degradations of industrial and emerging contaminants such as ciprofloxacin (80% degradation) and naproxen (72% degradation) using UV light (300 W) in short periods of up to 15 min. An additional doping of the Cu,F‐containing nanomaterials with palladium nanoparticles, makes the systems active as heterogeneous catalysts in Suzuki–Miyaura C–C coupling reactions. Interestingly, the Cu,F‐containing systems do not need the doping of Pd to be active in C–C coupling showing good conversions and modest yields of biphenyl derivatives. Finally, Pd‐doped systems are also successfully tested in the energy‐related process of the photocatalytic dehalogenation‐hydrogenation of different substrates, making these systems attractive for their potential future application in the dehalogenation of plastic or biomass wastes and for the preparation of solid or liquid fuels for cleaner energy generation.