bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edaphic Aptness of Subarid Soils to Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) Production in Social Dynamics Context of Diffa, Niger
Authors: M. Moussa Boubacar , Abdou Laouali , Illiassou Salamatou Abdourahamane , Mahamane Ali
Published: December 2021

In the eastern Niger, vegetable crops such as lettuce are cultivated along the Komadougou Yobé river and near Lake Chad. Insecurity linked to terrorist groups prevents the exploitation of these areas and leads population to explore other lands. This study aims to find out whether sub-arid soils have in some places potentialities that can allow lettuce cultivation. A pedological survey was first carried out in the study area and some physicochemical soil parameters were analyzed. Then, a randomized experimental design with three cultivars (“Blonde de Paris”, “Iceberg Tahoma”, and “Iceberg edem”) and three replicates was carried out on soils which present favorable conditions for vegetable crops. The lettuce fresh mass was determined at harvest. The results show a significant influence of the geomorphological gradient on texture classes, nitrogen contents, pH values, cation exchange capacity and level of exchangeable bases. The lowland soils are more apt for vegetable crops like lettuce. The mean of lettuce fresh mass obtained for the three cultivars is 4.8±0.5 kg.m-². Iceberg Eden records the highest values and seems well adapted to eastern Niger.
Facilitators and Barriers to Retention in HIV Care among HIV Infected MSM Attending Community Health Center Yaba, Lagos Nigeria
Authors: Offie Daniel Chinenyeike , Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Akueshi Chiedozi , Njab Jean E. , Ekanem Ekanem E. , Dike Paul Nnoaharam , Oguh Daniel Nnaoma
Published: December 2021

Background: The burden of HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) has posed a huge public health threat to the developing country like Nigeria. Identification of effective strategies to improve their retention in HIV care especially for young HIV infected MSM is critical for overall success in scaling down the national burden of HIV/AIDS. The aim of this study was to assess the facilitators and barriers to retention in HIV care among HIV infected MSM attending community health center, Yaba Lagos Nigeria.

Methods: A two months (May –June,2016) exploratory qualitative research study was conducted among 181 respondents enrolled into HIV care within 12 months that attend community health center, Yaba Lagos Nigeria. A pretested and semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the specific facilitators and barriers to retention in HIV care among respondents. Data entries and analysis were done using SPSS package version 20. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize quantitative variables, and frequency tables were generated for the relevant variables.

Results: The median age (in years) of the participants sampled was 24. The study identified friendly clinic service 44%, having positive relationship with clinic staff 16%, friendly and secured environment 20% as the major facilitators to retention in HIV care while implicating distance 36% and self -denial 21% as major barriers to retention in HIV care among the respondents.

Conclusion: Majority of the respondents were retained in HIV care services due to the available friendly clinic services and conducive environment instituted at the service provision site.
Causes of Acute Abdominal Pain in Geriatrics: A Review
Authors: Albalawi Abdullah Saed , Amer Mohammed Omar , Alharbi Mohammed Ghannam , Alshaleikhi Etizaz Ayed
Published: December 2021

Background: Aging affects all functions of the gastrointestinal system (GIS). The elderly commonly has atypical presentation of a disease with more subtle symptoms; hence physicians who are not familiar with these might miss the opportunity to make a diagnosis of abdominal pain in timely manner. The main objective of our study is to summarize the current evidence regarding causes and management of acute abdominal pain in elderly.                     

Methodology: MEDLINE, Embolic, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and ASSIA were searched from 2000 until April 2021, and reference lists of included studies were searched. Studies were included that described causes and management of abdominal pain in elderly. No software has been utilized to analyze the data. The data was extracted based on specific form that contains (Author’s name, publication year, country, methodology and results).

Results: The study included 7 papers. 2 cross sectional, 2 prospective and 3 retrospective studies all reporting causes and management of acute abdominal pain in elderly.

Conclusion: The most common causes of abdominal pain in elderly population were biliary disease, appendicitis and bowel obstruction. Renal colic, hernia and ischemia were also reported in different rates. Diagnosis and management of abdominal pain especially in elderly should be immediate to avoid potential complications.
Overview on Fluid, Electrolyte and Nutrition Management of the Newborn and Pre-term Newborns
Authors: Alzahrani Abdulwahab Ahmed , Altaf Jumanah Azzam , Alharbi Amal Mahmoud , Alqarni Razan Mohammed M. , Otayf Bander Yahya , Aldhafiri Salem R. J. M. J. , Alhawsawi Dhuha Abdulaziz , Abdulmanea Khulood Abdulrahman , Alhashim Maryam Jafar , Abaalkhail Abdullah Mohammad , Alsaeed Mohammed Ibrahim Saleh
Published: December 2021

Often in extremely preterm newborns in the early postnatal daysproblems in fluid and electrolyte balance occur Due to excessive insensible water loss and renal immaturity. The dietary care of newborn newborns is challenged by the demands of growth and organ development. The stress of a serious disease makes it much more difficult to get enough nourishment. Newborns andespecially premature newborns must be assessed thoroughly for fluid and electrolytes balance. Calculating the fluid and electrolyte demand for sustaining metabolic activities, replacing losses (evaporative, third space, external), and considering pre-existing fluid imbalance are all part of effective fluid and electrolyte management. When a neonate's size or condition prevents them from receiving enteral nutrition, parenteral nutrition can help them grow and thrive. Although eating through the gastrointestinal tract is the recommended method of nutritional management, some situations necessitate the use of PN as an adjuvant or sole treatment. In this article we discuss fluid electrolytes and Nutritional management using parenteral nutrition.
Acute Hypoglycemia in Emergency Room: A Review
Authors: Sonbul Hisham Mohammed , Hakami Faris Ali , Almathami Ibrahim Ahmed , Basalamah Ahmad Yousef , Almasaud Riyad Khalid , Alabbadi Hasan Mohssen , Alrehaily Mohammed Ali , Edrees Wesam Mostafa , AlDhalea Hatem Mohammed , Ali Siddiqa Mohamed , Alqahtani Mohammed Aboud Abdullah
Published: December 2021

Hypoglycemia is frequently encountered in the emergency department (ED) and has potential for serious morbidity. The incidence and causes of iatrogenic hypoglycemia are not known. We aim to describe how often the cause of ED hypoglycemia is iatrogenic and to identify its specific causes. Adult patients with a chief complaint or ED diagnosis of hypoglycemia, or an ED glucose value of ≤70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) between 2009–2014. Two independent abstractors each reviewed charts of patients with an initial glucose ≤ 50 mg/dL, or initial glucose ≥ 70 mg/dL with a subsequent glucose ≤ 50 mg/dL, to determine if the hypoglycemia was caused by iatrogenesis.

In ED patients with hypoglycemia, iatrogenic causes are relatively common. The most frequent cause was insulin administration for hyperkalemia and uncomplicated hyperglycemia. Additionally, patients at risk of hypoglycemia in the absence of insulin, including those with alcohol intoxication or poor nutritional status, should be monitored closely in the ED.
Efficacy of Lactobacillus reuteri Supplementation in Eradication of H. pylori: A Comparison Study with Triple Drug Therapy
Authors: Parth Kumar , Prudhivi Ramakrishna , Palatheeya Sujatha , Abbas Syed Kamran , Varsha K. , Niharika B. V. , Lyngkhoi Banaijingkmen
Published: December 2021

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections affect roughly one-half of the world’s population. Although many standard regimens, including triple-drug therapy, eradicate H. pylori, the success rate and efficacy have been declining due to associated side effects and symptom severity. The addition of probiotics to a standard regimen can considerably increase eradication rates. The objective is to find the efficacy of a probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) in eradicating human H. pylori infection and effect on symptoms regression and side effects associated with triple therapy. This prospective interventional study was conducted in 90 H. pylori-positive patients. 45 patients received standard triple treatment (group-I) for 14 days. Another 45 patients received a combination of standard triple therapy and L. reuteri (group-II) for 14 days. After the completion of treatment, H. pylori status was evaluated using a 13-C Urea-Breath Test (UBT). Each subject is interviewed with a validated Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rating Scale (GSRS) questionnaire to record symptoms and symptom severity before and after the therapy. Group-II patients showed a significantly higher eradication rate (86.67%) than group-I patients (66.67%). The absolute values of 13C-UBT (group-I: 14.02± 5.4, group-II: 11.9±3.73) revealed that a more substantial reduction in H. Pylori load was observed in group II. Statistical analysis proved that group II patients had a significant reduction in GSRS mean scores (baseline score: 15.39±4.52 to end score: 5.33±2.34) compared to group-I patients (baseline score: 14.47±3.67 to end score: 9.86±4.78). Addition of L. reuteri has reduced side effects associated with triple drug therapy except bloating. In conclusion,  supplementation of  L. reuteri to standard triple drug therapy significantly  improved the eradication rate of H. pylori, reduced intensity of gastrointestinal symptoms and also treatment related side effects.
Unregistered Polygamous Marriage of Civil Servants and its Implication for Wives’ Financial Problem, Social Fate and Loss of Children’s Welfare
Authors: Masyithoh Novita Dewi , eki Sut , nto Yuna , Ernawati Briliyan , Hidayati Nur
Published: December 2021

Unregistered polygamous marriage carried out by civil servants has serious implication for wives’ financial problem, social fate and loss of children’s welfare. The Marriage Law allows polygamy with very strict requirements. In the Government Regulation governing civil servant polygamy, justice is the main requirement in polygamy, because it really determines welfare in polygamy families. Based on the results of in-depth interviews and participant observation by using the constructivism paradigm and socio-legal approaches, it was found that unregistered polygamous marriages carried out by civil servants have implication for the disciplinary punishment of employees, so the polygamists got the sack. This implies their family economic problems, because there is not enough income to meet the needs of family life. Finally, neglect and divorce occur. Wives and children will be victims. Hence, it is necessary for the government to regulate particular policies for the polygamists of civil servants, to save their wives and children’s life. Firing the polygamists is not such a solution, but will instead create more complicated problems for their families.
The Impact of a Proposed Science Informal Curriculum on Students’ Achievement and Attitudes During the Covid-19
Authors: Alnajjar Eiad Abdulhalim Mohammad
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to identify the impact of a proposed science curriculum based on informal learning on the academic achievement of ninth-grade students and their attitudes towards science majors in Al-Qunfuthah Governorate during the COVID-19 pandemic, and thus answer the following questions: What activities represent informal education in science that can be included in the science curriculum? Is there a statistically significant difference in the attitudes towards scientific disciplines for ninth-grade students due to the proposed curriculum based on informal education? Is there a statistically significant difference in the educational attainment of ninth-grade students due to the proposed curriculum based on non-formal education? The researcher used the experimental method, where the study sample was randomly selected and numbered (29) students in the control group, and (29) students in the experimental group. The researcher designed the science curriculum to include activities based on informal education in science, and it was taught to students in the experimental group, while the control group will study the formal curriculum of science for the third intermediate grade. The researcher also prepared a measure of attitudes towards the sciences major, and a test to measure the students' academic achievement.
Shock Analysis of Mobile Power Supply Container for Radar with MIL-STD-810H
Authors: Kwon Jaeeon , Shin Dongwon , Hur Jangwook
Published: December 2021

Radar is a ground defense system that detects enemy aircraft and receives power from a mobile power supply in an emergency. Serious problems may occur if the equipment is damaged by impact during transportation for use. The US military standard MIL-STD-810H contains information on environmental tests such as shock and vibration applied to munitions. Therefore, in this study, the transient analysis of ANSYS 19.2 was performed using the impact data specified in MIL-STD-810H as an input value. Through this, the maximum stress generated in the impact environment of the mobile power supply container was derived, and the safety margin was calculated to confirm the reliability of the container.
2D Heterostructure for High‐Order Spatiotemporal Information Processing
Authors: Zhai Yongbiao , Xie Peng , Feng Zihao , Du Chunyu , Han Su‐Ting , Zhou Ye
Published: December 2021

The Bienenstock, Cooper, and Munro (BCM) theory of synaptic plasticity is regarded as the most precise model of the synapse, and is more compatible with neuromorphic computing. However, the development in BCM synaptic modification is rather limited since the memristive devices used to emulate the BCM lack tunable forgetting rate. Compared with memristors, memtransistors provide another gate‐tunable freedom degree, which will help to modulate the forgetting rate. In this work, the authors demonstrate a perfect BCM learning rule based on the 2D heterostructure memtransistor through using triplet‐spike timing dependent plasticity model. Two critical characteristics of the BCM rule, sliding frequency threshold and enhanced depression effect, are perfectly presented due to their spontaneous/gate‐assistant forgetting effect. The experimental results are extremely consistent with the BCM learning rule and suggest the potential application of 2D memtransistors in high‐order spatiotemporal recognition.
Self‐Healing Kirigami Assembly Strategy for Conformal Electronics
Authors: Liu Jianpeng , Jiang Shan , Xiong Wennan , Zhu Chen , Li Kan , Huang YongAn
Published: December 2021

Conformal integration of electronics on complex curvilinear surfaces remains challenging, especially for those devices made of non‐stretchable materials. Transforming as‐fabricated planar sheets onto curved surfaces requires the materials to be flexible and stretchable, which is intrinsically in conflict with the nature of non‐stretchable materials. Here, a novel assembly strategy for conformal electronics is proposed that utilizes kirigami design at the structural level for the non‐stretchable planar sheets to conformally and completely wrap the curved surfaces, and employs self‐healing materials to connect the sheets at the seams. Conductive self‐healing materials are used to ensure the electrical conductivity of the functional materials so as to assure device functionality. The transformation from a planar kirigami sheet to a sphere surface demonstrates this strategy, which is designed and predicted by theoretical and numerical studies and realized by experiments. Simple examples such as a conformal heater and a multifunctional wind sensing system on a spherical surface demonstrate the wide potential applications of the proposed strategy.
Bio‐Micromotor Tweezers for Noninvasive Bio‐Cargo Delivery and Precise Therapy
Authors: Pan Ting , Shi Yang , Zhao Nan , Xiong Jianyun , Xiao Yuqing , Xin Hongbao , Li Baojun
Published: December 2021

Active and targeted bio‐cargo delivery by micromotors holds exciting prospects in biomedical applications. However, such delivery still faces great challenges when implemented in bio‐microenvironments with minimal invasiveness, flexible controllability, and full biocompatibility. Here, a noncontact delivery platform based on bio‐micromotor tweezers is reported, which fulfill these demands by using hydrodynamic forces to exert precision control over bio‐cargos. The concept is based on two optically trapped living microalgae cells with intrinsic motility and biocompatibility: The rotating cells generate highly localized flow fields, which can trap and drive cargos of arbitrary material and shape along controllable trajectories in different biological media in a noncontact manner. The proposed strategy is effective for both biological cells and drugs with minimalized biological damages due to the absence of harmful and cumbersome loading/unloading steps of bio‐cargos on micromotors. Importantly, it is further applied to realize targeted drug delivery into single cancer cell for precise therapy. Such bio‐micromotor tweezers provide great potential for different biomedical applications such as, targeted drug/cell delivery, drug testing, accurate diagnosis, and precise therapy.
Encountering and Wrestling: Neutrophils Recognize and Defensively Degrade Graphene Oxide
Authors: Huang Shiyi , Li Sijie , Liu Yanlei , Ghalandari Behafarid , Hao Ling , Huang Chengjie , Su Wenqiong , Ke Yuqing , Cui Daxiang , Zhi Xiao , Ding Xianting
Published: December 2021

The boosting exploitation of graphene oxide (GO) increases exposure risk to human beings. However, as primary defender in the first immune line, neutrophils’ mechanism of defensive behavior toward GO remains unclear. Herein, we discovered that neutrophils recognize and defensively degrade GO in a lateral dimension dependent manner. The micrometer‐sized GO (mGO) induces NETosis by releasing neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), while nanometer‐sized GO (nGO) elicits neutrophil degranulation. The two neutrophils’ defensive behaviors are accompanied with generation of reactive oxygen species and activation of p‐ERK and p‐Akt kinases. However, mGO‐induced NETosis is NADPH oxidase (NOX)‐independent while nGO‐triggered degranulation is NOX‐dependent. Furthermore, myeloperoxidase (MPO) is determinant mediator despite distinct neutrophil phenotypes. Neutrophils release NETs comprising of MPO upon activated with mGO, while MPO is secreted via nGO‐induced degranulation. Moreover, the binding energy between MPO and GO is calculated to be 69.8728 kJ mol−1, indicating that electrostatic interactions mainly cause the spontaneous binding process. Meanwhile, the central enzymatic biodegradation occurs at oxygenic active sites and defects on GO. Mass spectrometry analysis deciphers the degradation products are biocompatible molecules like flavonoids and polyphenols. This study provides fundamental evidence and practical guidance for nanotechnology based on GO, including vaccine adjuvant, implantable devices, and energy storage.
Exceptional Photocatalytic Activities of rGO Modified (B,N) Co‐Doped WO3, Coupled with CdSe QDs for One Photon Z‐Scheme System: A Joint Experimental and DFT Study
Authors: Raziq Fazal , Aligayev Amil , Shen Huahai , Ali Sharafat , Shah Rahim , Ali Sajjad , Bakhtiar Syedul H. , Ali Asad , Zarshad Naghat , Zada Amir , Xia Xiang , Zu Xiaotao , Khan Muslim , Wu Xiaoqiang , Kong Qingquan , Liu Chunming , Qiao Liang
Published: December 2021

Artificial Z‐scheme, a tandem structure with two‐step excitation process, has gained significant attention in energy production and environmental remediation. By effectively connecting and matching the band‐gaps of two different photosystems, it is significant to utilize more photons for excellent photoactivity. Herein, a novel one‐photon (same energy‐two‐photon) Z‐scheme system is constructed between rGO modified boron‐nitrogen co‐doped‐WO3, and coupled CdSe quantum dots‐(QDs). The coctalyst‐0.5%RhxCr2O3(0.5RCr) modified amount‐optimized sample 6%CdSe/1%rGO3%BN‐WO3 revealed an unprecedented visible‐light driven overall‐water‐splitting to produce ≈51 µmol h−1 g−1 H2 and 25.5 µmol h−1 g−1 O2, and it remained unchanged for 5 runs in 30 h. This superior performance is ascribed to the one‐photon Z‐scheme, which simultaneously stimulates a two photocatalysts system, and enhanced charge separation as revealed by various spectroscopy techniques. The density‐functional theory is further utilized to understand the origin of this performance enhancement. This work provides a feasible strategy for constructing an efficient one‐photon Z‐scheme for practical applications.
Conductive Hybrid Cu‐HHTP‐TCNQ Metal–Organic Frameworks for Chemiresistive Sensing
Authors: Lüder Lars , Gubicza Agnes , Stiefel Michael , Overbeck Jan , Beretta Davide , Sadeghpour Amin , Neels Antonia , Nirmalraj Peter N. , Rossi René M. , Toncelli Claudio , Calame Michel
Published: December 2021

Electrically conductive metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and MOF‐like coordination polymers are an emerging class of materials that combine good electrical charge transport with unique properties such as nanoporosity. The combination of different metal nodes and organic linkers allows tailoring MOFs to specific properties and applications in electronics, like selective chemiresistive sensing. The intrinsic crystallinity of MOFs, which usually promotes efficient charge transport, makes them also difficult to integrate into flexible systems, as crystalline MOFs are often brittle. The present study reports on a fast and reliable interfacial synthesis of conductive MOF films composed of two different organic ligands, 2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexahydroxytriphenylene (HHTP) and 7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), lacking long‐range periodic order while preserving good electrical conductivity of 0.033 S cm−1 at room temperature and chemiresistive response toward ambient changes. The hybrid nature of the discontinuous film is investigated multiparametrically by electron and atomic force microscopy as well as by Raman spectroscopy. This study demonstrates that including different types of MOFs is a good compromise between structural order and conductivity, thus making hybrid framework architectures to a promising active material for chemiresistive sensors without the need for high crystallinity.
Seasonal greenhouse gases fluxes from monoculture and mixed native grasslands in the Southern Plains, USA
Authors: Peterson Brekke L , Starks Patrick James , Steiner Jean L
Published: December 2021

Agricultural practices have been linked to soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) stores through exchanges with the atmosphere in the form of greenhouse gases (GHGs) of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4). However, regional and management‐specific research is needed to ultimately understand the drivers of these atmosphere warming molecules. We established research on four grassland sites: a native, mixed‐species warm‐season site and a non‐native, warm‐season, grass‐species site at the Grazinglands Research Laboratory at El Reno, OK; a native, mixed‐species warm‐season site at Noble Research Institute's Oswalt Ranch in Ardmore, OK; and a native, mixed‐species, warm‐season site at Oklahoma State University's Range Research Station at Marena, OK. Greenhouse gases, along with soil properties were measured biweekly and summed by season in 2015 and 2016. A comparison of GHGs with soil variables indicated that mineralization of soil nutrients mediated GHG fluxes. The sites were sources of CO2 and N2O emissions, but sinks for CH4, particularly in diverse native grassland sites. In spring, CO2 emissions were driven by soil water content, soil temperature, and soil N. The N2O emissions were highest in the fertilized monoculture pasture. Overall, fluxes of the GHGs were driven by primarily by water content, soil nitrate, soil temperature, and ammonia content. By better understanding GHG fluxes and the abiotic and biotic drivers, we can identify management options to foster C sequestration and mitigate the GHG footprint for these forage‐based systems.
Bioorthogonal Ligation‐Activated Fluorogenic FRET Dyads
Authors: Albitz Evelin , Kern Dóra , Kormos Attila , Bojtár Márton , Török György , Biró Adrienn , Szatmári Ágnes , Németh Krisztina , Kele Péter
Published: December 2021

An energy transfer‐based signal amplification relay concept enabling transmission of bioorthogonally activatable fluorogenicity of blue‐excitable coumarins to yellow/red emitting cyanine frames is presented. Such relay mechanism resulted in improved cyanine fluorogenicities together with increased photostabilities and large apparent Stokes‐shifts allowing lower background fluorescence even in no‐wash bioorthogonal fluorogenic labeling schemes of intracellular structures in live cells. These energy transfer dyads sharing the same donor moiety together with their parent donor molecule allowed three‐color imaging of intracellular targets using one single excitation source with separate emission windows. Sub‐diffraction imaging of intracellular structures using the bioorthogonally activatable FRET dyads by STED microscopy is also presented.
Radiation Chemistry Provides Nanoscopic Insights into the Role of Intermediate Phases in CeO2 Mesocrystal Formation
Authors: Li Zhuofeng , Piankova Diana , Yang Yi , Kumagai Yuta , Zschiesche Hannes , Jonsson Mats , Tarakina Nadezda V. , Soroka Inna L.
Published: December 2021

The role of intermediate phases in CeO2 mesocrystal formation from aqueous CeIII solutions subjected to γ‐radiation was studied. Radiolytically formed hydroxyl radicals convert soluble CeIII into less soluble CeIV. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray diffraction studies of samples from different stages of the process allowed the identification of several stages in CeO2 mesocrystal evolution following the oxidation to CeIV: (1) formation of hydrated CeIV hydroxides, serving as intermediates in the liquid‐to‐solid phase transformation; (2) CeO2 primary particle growth inside the intermediate phase; (3) alignment of the primary particles into “pre‐mesocrystals” and subsequently to mesocrystals, guided by confinement of the amorphous intermediate phase and accompanied by the formation of “mineral bridges”. Further alignment of the obtained mesocrystals into supracrystals occurs upon slow drying, making it possible to form complex hierarchical architectures.
A Photoinduced Dual‐Wavelength Approach for 3D Printing and Self‐Healing of Thermosetting Materials
Authors: Zhang Zhiheng , Corrigan Nathaniel , Boyer Cyrille
Published: December 2021

Vat photopolymerization‐based 3D printing techniques have been widely used to produce high‐resolution 3D thermosetting materials. However, the lack of repairability of these thermosets leads to the production of waste. In this study, reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) agents are incorporated into resin formulations to allow visible light (405 nm) mediated 3D printing of materials with self‐healing capabilities. The self‐healing process is based on the reactivation of RAFT agent embedded in the thermosets under UV light (365 nm), which enables reformation of the polymeric network. The self‐healing process can be performed at room temperature without prior deoxygenation. The impact of the type and concentration of RAFT agents in the polymer network on the healing efficiency is explored. Resins containing RAFT agents enable 3D printing of thermosets with self‐healing properties, broadening the scope of future applications for polymeric thermosets in various fields.
Janus Photonic Microspheres with Bridged Lamellar Structures via Droplet‐Confined Block Copolymer Co‐Assembly
Authors: Guo Qilin , Li Yulian , Liu Qiujun , Li Yuesheng , Song Dong‐Po
Published: December 2021

Artificial self‐assembly systems typically exhibit limited capability in creating nature‐inspired complex materials with advanced functionalities. Here, an effective co‐assembly strategy is demonstrated for the facile creation of complex photonic structures with intriguing light reflections. Two different lipophilic and amphiphilic bottlebrush block copolymers (BCPs) are placed within shrinking droplets to enable a cooperative working mechanism of microphase segregation and organized spontaneous emulsification, respectively. Layer assemblies of the lipophilic BCP and uniform water nanodroplets stabilized by the bottlebrush surfactant are both generated, and co‐assembled into a bridged lamellar structure with the alternating arrangement of layers and closely packed nanodroplet arrays. Janus microspheres with diverse dual optical characteristics are successfully fabricated, and reflected wavelengths of light are highly tunable simply by changing the formulation or molecular weight of BCP.
Improving the mechanical performance of P(N‐hydroxymethyl acrylamide/acrylic acid/2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid) hydrogel via hydrophobic modified nanosilica
Authors: Xu Pan , Zong Yi , Shang Zhijie , Yao Meiling , Liu Pingde , Li Xinxue
Published: December 2021

Hydrogels with high mechanical strength are essential for its most industrial applications. In this work, the hydrophobic SiO2nanoparticles (M‐SiO2NPs) modified with octadecyltrimethoxysilane were used as physical crosslinker to toughen the mechanical properties of hydrogels. The solution of monomers containing M‐SiO2NPs, N‐hydroxymethyl acrylamide (NHAM), acrylic acid (AA), 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS), was polymerized to prepare a P(NHAM/AA/AMPS)‐based composite hydrogel without any chemical cross‐linker. The composition and microstructure of the hydrogel were carefully studied with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties of the hydrogel were investigated through compressive and tensile tests. Dynamic swelling tests were carried out at different pH values (1.0–12.0) and salinity (2000–20,000 mg/L) to study the acid resistance, alkali resistance, and salt resistance of the hydrogel. The obtained results showed that the hydrogel exhibited excellent mechanical performance, which was attributed to the unique 3D network formed by the hydrogen bond between M‐SiO2NPs and polymer as well as the hydrophobic association effect between the hydrophobic chains of M‐SiO2NPs. Furthermore, the hydrophobic association effect was enhanced when contacting with salt, acid, and alkali solutions, thus endowing the hydrogel with intensified salt resistance and wider acid–base adaptability range.
Photo‐assisted shape memory lignin/cellulose acetate composites for information encryption
Authors: Yang Haiying , Wang Dong , Bi Hongjie , Ren Zechun , Xu Min , Huang Zhenhua , Cai Liping
Published: December 2021

An information encryption device using shape memory cellulose acetate (CA) as matrix, and lignin as photothermal agent was developed. Such information encryption was chiefly composed of two steps, that is, information concealing by fixing temporary shapes and information decryption by restoring original shape based on preset sequential lighting commands. This film device was fabricated readily by solution blending. Further related analyses on the photo‐assisted shape memory mechanism of such composites were carried out. Compared to other samples, the CA/lignin‐3 composites possessed the most excellent shape memory properties as its shape recovery angle of 180° and shape fixation angle of 30°. It had good mechanical, thermomechanical, and superior photothermal conversion properties. The elongation at break and tensile strength was 24% and 4.5 MPa, the glass transition temperature was 30–130°C. The results of the Fourier transform infrared and Ultraviolet–Visible spectra illustrated the tight relationship between conjugated chromophoric systems and photothermal conversion of composites.
Applying sliding mode technique to design extended state observer for nonlinear systems
Authors: Chang Jeang‐Lin
Published: December 2021

This paper applies sliding mode and stable pole‐zero cancelation techniques to design a finite time extended state observer for a class of single‐input single‐output nonlinear systems in the presence of unknown uncertainties and disturbances. The proposed estimation approaches, including first‐order and second‐order sliding mode extended state observers, can provide more design flexibility and achieve good performance compared with the conventional extended state observers. Moreover, it has a good form for theoretical stability analysis in which the estimation errors can be converged to a neighborhood of zero while remaining uniformly bounded in finite time. The characteristics of the developed observer is presented in the frequency domain, followed by the corresponding analysis in the time domain. Finally, simulation results demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.
Lessons from the first year of compliance sampling under Michigan's revised Lead and Copper Rule and national Lead and Copper Rule implications
Authors: Betanzo Elin , Rhyan Corwin , Hanna‐Attisha Mona
Published: December 2021

In 2018, Michigan revised its Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) compliance sampling requirements to better represent the potential lead contribution from lead service lines (LSLs). The first year of sampling results under the new requirements were analyzed to determine their impact on lead sampling results. The dataset reveals statistically significant higher detected lead levels, both at individual sample sites and in some water system 90th percentiles. Michigan's LCR results reveal the percentage of public water systems with LSLs exceeding the lead action level (15 ppb) increasing to 13% compared to 2% under the previous sampling protocol. Michigan's experience demonstrates that solely collecting first‐liter data, consistent with current LCR requirements, is inadequate for detecting the higher range of lead concentrations commonly found in LSL samples. As the 2021 EPA LCR revision includes fifth‐liter and removes first‐liter compliance sampling, Michigan's lessons portend national implications. This paper evaluates Michigan's novel 2019 LCR results, compares the results to previous sampling periods, and shares lessons learned for timely national policy decisions.
Human genome‐wide analysis and identification of the hyperphosphorylation‐elicited interactions between subarachnoid tau protein and phosphoprotein‐binding domains
Authors: Shi Jianyun , Peng Taolue , Hu Jinbo , Shao Hong
Published: December 2021

Abnormally hyperphosphorylated tau can be recognized by a variety of phosphoprotein‐binding domains (PBDs) to elicit downstream tau signaling in neuropathology, which has been found to have a potential association with subarachnoid hemorrhage. In this study, the genome‐wide binding behavior of tau phosphorylation sites (p‐sites) to PBDs involved in subarachnoid hyperphosphorylation events was systematically profiled at molecular level by integrating peptide docking, structural minimization, affinity scoring, and binding assay, from which a number of potent PBD–p‐site interaction pairs were identified. It was revealed that the PBD domains exhibit distinct binding preferences for phosphotyrosine, phosphoserine, and phosphothreonine p‐sites; the PBD‐recognition specificity of different tau p‐sites is not overlapped with each other, and their phosphorylations would therefore regulate varying biological functions in tau signaling. A number of PBD–p‐site pairs were identified to have potent binding potency as compared to others. The KCIP–pS[393–399] pair was found as a strong binder, which was further optimized with a rational peptide design protocol to derive a number of affinity‐improved phosphopeptides. Structural analysis revealed diverse noncovalent chemical forces across the complex interface of KCIP domain with a designed high‐affinity pS[393–399]‐d4, which confers both stability and specificity to the domain–peptide complex system, with affinity improved by 10.9‐fold relative to the native pS[393–399].
Improved risk prediction of chemotherapy‐induced neutropenia—model development and validation with real‐world data
Authors: Venäläinen Mikko S. , Heervä Eetu , Hirvonen Outi , Saraei Sohrab , Suomi Tomi , Mikkola Toni , Bärlund Maarit , Jyrkkiö Sirkku , Laitinen Tarja , Elo Laura L.
Published: December 2021

Background

The existing risk prediction models for chemotherapy‐induced febrile neutropenia (FN) do not necessarily apply to real‐life patients in different healthcare systems and the external validation of these models are often lacking. Our study evaluates whether a machine learning‐based risk prediction model could outperform the previously introduced models, especially when validated against real‐world patient data from another institution not used for model training.

Methods

Using Turku University Hospital electronic medical records, we identified all patients who received chemotherapy for non‐hematological cancer between the years 2010 and 2017 (N = 5879). An experimental surrogate endpoint was first‐cycle neutropenic infection (NI), defined as grade IV neutropenia with serum C‐reactive protein >10 mg/l. For predicting the risk of NI, a penalized regression model (Lasso) was developed. The model was externally validated in an independent dataset (N = 4594) from Tampere University Hospital.

Results

Lasso model accurately predicted NI risk with good accuracy (AUROC 0.84). In the validation cohort, the Lasso model outperformed two previously introduced, widely approved models, with AUROC 0.75. The variables selected by Lasso included granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) use, cancer type, pre‐treatment neutrophil and thrombocyte count, intravenous treatment regimen, and the planned dose intensity. The same model predicted also FN, with AUROC 0.77, supporting the validity of NI as an endpoint.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that real‐world NI risk prediction can be improved with machine learning and that every difference in patient or treatment characteristics can have a significant impact on model performance. Here we outline a novel, externally validated approach which may hold potential to facilitate more targeted use of G‐CSFs in the future.
Tailoring Activated Carbon Properties for Pb(II) and Cr(VI) Removal from Water in Continuous Mode
Authors: Boustila Houda , Boutillara Yasmine , Velasco Leticia Fernandez , Djellali Ali , Tazibet Sana
Published: December 2021

Dynamic adsorption of Cr(VI) and Pb(II) in single and binary mixture solutions at different pH values (2 and 6) was studied on activated carbons obtained by chemical activation of olive stones with different agents. The activated carbons exhibited large surface areas with diverse pore size distributions and surface chemistry. The adsorption tests, performed in continuous mode, revealed the existence of different adsorption sites for Pb(II) and Cr(VI). Besides, they emphasized the significant role of the pH, both of the medium and of the carbon surface, in the adsorption of Cr(VI). That is, an acidic medium favors the retention of Cr(VI) on activated carbon having a surface pH around 2 whereas an activated carbon with a more neutral surface shows high efficiency for binary mixtures at high contaminant concentrations for solulions at pH 6.
Effect of Hydrothermal Treatment on the Properties of Calcium Oxide from Eggshells Used as a Biodiesel Catalyst
Authors: Fasanya Opeoluwa O. , Gbadamasi Sharafadeen , Osigbesan Aishat A. , Ahmed Omar Umar , Isa Abdulazeez R. , Ozogu Agbe N. , Hayatudeen Aminu , Yusuf Abubakar I. , Gano Zaharaddeen Sani
Published: December 2021

The utilization of waste cooking oil (WCO) and bleached palm oil (BPO) for the production of biodiesel in the presence of hydrothermally treated calcium oxide (CaO) derived from waste chicken eggshells was investigated. Waste chicken eggshells were calcined at 850 °C and then hydrothermally treated at 120 and 140 °C to produce two sets of CaO catalysts. Hydrothermal treatment of the catalysts resulted in a decrease of the crystallite size from 47 to 30 and 28 nm at temperatures of 120 and 140 °C. The catalytic performance of the CaO catalysts was evaluated with WCO and BPO, respectively. WCO gave biodiesel yields of 82.7 and 83.1 % for CaO catalysts aged at 120 and 140 °C respectively. BPO gave 79.4 and 79.6 % yields, respectively, for the same set of catalysts.
Effect of Neutralization of the Grinding Aid in the Production of Fine CaCO3 Slurries
Authors: Jacquemet Christian
Published: December 2021

The most commonly used additive in wet grinding of calcium carbonate is a low‐polydispersity‐index sodium polyacrylate with an optimized molecular weight. A similar polyacrylate was tested under different Na‐Ca and Na‐Mg neutralization states. Results of the grinding experiments revealed logarithmic relations between the weight percentage of fine particles and specific energy consumption (SEC). Power‐law functions were established between the median size and SEC. A steady increase of SEC occurred with r = M2+/CO2−. This energy increment with r is greater when the grinding aid is a Na‐Ca‐neutralized polyacrylate. Moreover, the quantities of non‐adsorbed dispersant in the ground calcium carbonate suspensions after grinding decline with r and are not dependent on the nature of M2+.
Influence of the Anions on the Interaction Energy between Water and Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zheng Chaolun , Shen Ziyang , Zhou Jian , Pei Yong , Yang Bao
Published: December 2021

It is essential to understand the interaction energy between water and ionic liquids (ILs) in search of ILs for dehumidification applications. In this paper, the intermolecular interaction energy between water and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ([EMIM])‐based ILs was investigated. The vapor‐liquid equilibrium data were first measured for solutions of [EMIM][BF4], [EMIM][N(CN)2], [EMIM][CF3SO3], and [EMIM][CH3SO3] with water molar fractions of 8–95 % at temperatures of 303–343 K. The IL‐IL and water‐IL intermolecular interaction energies were determined by using the correlated non‐random two‐liquid model. The results revealed that fluorine atoms in anions reduce the attraction energy between IL and water, and thus, decrease the water affinity.
Synthesis of Free‐Standing Alloyed PdSn Nanoparticles with Enhanced Catalytic Performance for Ethanol Electrooxidation
Authors: Zhang Ben , Zhang Xingxue , Yan Jie , Cao Zhengshuai , Pang Mingyuan , Chen Jianyu , Zang Lei , Guo Peizhi
Published: December 2021

Alloyed Pd‐based nanostructured materials have been demonstrated as highly active fuel cell anode electrocatalysts for the alcohol oxidation reaction. Challenges remain in the controlled synthesis of freestanding PdM alloys catalysts through optimization of their interfacial and surface structures, which can prevent degradation and poor durability. Herein, we present an oil‐bath‐based approach to synthesize PdxSny nanoparticles (NPs) with L‐ascorbic acid (AA) as a reducing agent and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide as a structure‐directing agent. PdxSny NPs (x/y=0.66, 0.83, and 1.11) show a particular freestanding shape. Among the three alloys, Pd20Sn24 (x/y=0.83) NPs have the best electrocatalytic activity (2018 mA mg−1) toward the ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). The enhanced performance of PdxSny NPs might be attributed to i) a change in the electron structure of Pd, ii) varied interatomic distance within a unit cell, and iii) weak adsorption of in‐situ generated oxygen‐containing (e. g. *OH and Pd−O) or carbon‐containing (e. g. *CH3CHOH, *CH3CHO, and *CH3CO) intermediate species. Experimental data proposed that higher catalytic temperature, higher pH values, and higher ethanol concentration should accelerate each step of electrooxidation of the EOR.
Expanding the Scope of Polyoxometalates as Artificial Proteases towards Hydrolysis of Insoluble Proteins
Authors: Savić Nada D. , Salazar Marcano David E. , Parac‐Vogt Tatjana N.
Published: December 2021

Despite the enormous importance of insoluble proteins in biological processes, their structural investigation remains a challenging task. The development of artificial enzyme‐like catalysts would greatly facilitate the elucidation of their structure since currently used enzymes in proteomics largely lose activity in the presence of surfactants, which are necessary to solubilize insoluble proteins. In this study, the hydrolysis of a fully insoluble protein by polyoxometalate complexes as artificial proteases in surfactant solutions is reported for the first time. The hydrolysis of zein as a model protein was investigated in the presence of Zr(IV) and Hf(IV) substituted Keggin‐type polyoxometalates (POMs), (Et2NH2)10[M(α‐PW11O39)2] (M = Zr or Hf), and different concentrations of the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Selective hydrolysis of the protein upon incubation with the catalyst was observed, and the results indicate that the hydrolytic selectivity and activity of the POM catalysts strongly depends on the concentration of surfactant. The molecular interactions between the POM catalyst and zein in the presence of SDS were explored using a combination of spectroscopic techniques which indicated competitive binding between POM and SDS towards the protein. Furthermore, the formation of micellar superstructures in ternary POM/surfactant/protein solutions has been confirmed by conductivity and Dynamic Light Scattering measurements.
Ambient Spray Coating of Organic‐Inorganic Composite Thin Films for Perovskite Solar Cell Encapsulation
Authors: Luo Zhide , Zhang Cuiping , Yang Li , Zhang Jinbao
Published: December 2021

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are developing rapidly in recent years, showing remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25 %, which is comparable to crystalline silicon solar cells. However, since perovskite and other functional layers are very sensitive to the environment with high humidity, illumination, and heat, PSCs meet great challenges in device stability, which significantly limit their industrialization and commercialization. Encapsulation has become an effective strategy to enhance the stability of PSCs, and various encapsulation techniques have been developed, such as atomic layer deposition and glass‐glass technology. Most of the current encapsulating methods are either time‐consuming and sophisticated processes, or exhibit rigid configuration, which is unsuitable for flexible and curved devices. Here, an ambient spray coating method was developed to fabricate organic‐inorganic composite film for direct encapsulation of PSCs. By systematical optimization of the film composition, thickness, and microstructures, a superhydrophobic encapsulating thin film with high compactness and homogeneity was achieved. As a result, the hybrid encapsulating film with polystyrene (PS)‐4033/PS‐4033‐SiO2 significantly improved the stability of PSCs in humid environment (60–70 % relative humidity, 35 °C) by showing about 10 times longer lifetime than that of the unencapsulated devices, which was mainly attributed to complementary effects from the high compactness of PS and high hydrophobicity of SiO2. This work suggests that direct deposition of organic‐inorganic composite on devices as encapsulating films is an efficient strategy to enhance the device stability, and this method shows great promises of application in flexible and large‐area devices.