bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Short Form-36 Health Status Questionnaire Versus WOMAC Arthritis Index Questionnaire on Chronic Knee Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Jain Ankita , Raja R , Kumar K Santosh
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Osteoarthritis is a common disease of aged population and one of the leading causes of disability. Key causes include obesity or overweight along with aging. Knee osteoarthritis can cause significant pain and functional loss. As the disease progresses, it can cause chronic knee joint pain, muscle weakness, joint deformity and functional deficiency which leads to decreased quality of life. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) is a 24-item questionnaire with 3 sub-scales measuring pain (5 items), stiffness (2 items) and physical function (17 items). Health related quality of life is measured using Short Form-36, used to examine health status in following eight domains: Bodily pain, physical function, role limitations due to social problems, physical problems, general health, vitality, social function, mental health, role limitation due to physical problems. Aim: To find the effect of Short Form-36 Health Status Questionnaire versus WOMAC Arthritis Index Questionnaire to measure the pain, Range of Motion (ROM) and disability in subjects with chronic knee osteoarthritis patients treated with Contrast Bath and Knee Exercises. Materials and Methods: This study was a pre and post longitudinal cohort study. A total of 90 patients were divided into two groups of 45 each. Each patient was given treatment for four weeks. Each patient was treated with Contrast bath and Knee Exercises. Group A patients were instructed to fill the Short Form-36 Health Status Questionnaire and Group B patients were instructed to fill the WOMAC Arthritis Index Questionnaire and outcome measures were collected on day 1, at the end of 2nd week and at the end of 4th week. Data from study were analysed using the statistical package SPSS 19.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL) and level of significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Group B shows a mean of the total score of WOMAC Arthritis Index Questionnaire which was 74.66 (SD 10.01) on Day 1; mean of 49.02 (SD 12.08) at the end of the 2nd week and a mean of 20.68 (SD 12.23) at the end of 4th week. The p-value was found to be 0.0001. The percentage disability evaluated by the WOMAC Arthritis Index Questionnaire shows a mean of 78 (SD 10) on Day 1; mean of 51 (SD 12) at the end of 2nd week and a mean of 22 (SD 13) at the end of 4th week. On day 1 Short Form-36 Questionnaire, total score of group A was 88.24 (SD 6.72) and at the end of 2nd week and 4th week the mean score was 94.06 (SD 5.10) and 98.72 (SD 4.55), respectively with statistically significant difference p-value (0.0001). Conclusion: The present study showed that the WOMAC Arthritis Index Questionnaire had superior sensitivity in reducing pain and increasing range of motion and thus by decreasing the disability.
Detection of Helicobacter pylori in Patients with Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders at a Tertiary Care Centre in Gujarat: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Pandya Himani Bhardwaj , Patel Shivangi , Patel Rajvi , Patel Urvi , Patel Sheel , Patel Ujval , Patel Sanket
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) contribute to 90% of cancer cases in head and neck region and entails remarkable morbidity and mortality inspite of immense research and advances. Amongst other causes, infection with Helicobacter pylori is an emerging cause of OSCC. There is still perplexity in the exact etiopathogenesis of H. pylori related oral cancer. Aim: In order to explore this much unattended area, present study was aimed to find out the association between H. pylori in premalignant disorders and OSCC. Materials and methods: A Prospective case-control Pilot study of 35 patients (11 confirmed cases of Oral squamous cell carcinoma and 24 with oral potentially malignant disorders along with 15 age and sex matched healthy control) from June 2018 - September 2018 was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Smt. B. K. Shah Medical Institute, Piparia, Gujarat. H. pylori was detected by methods like Rapid urease test, Gram’s staining and Serology. Results: H. pylori was detected in five cases with OSCC with male predominance and mean age 45.6 yrs. All the five positive patients were severely addicted to tobacco and betel quid since decades. Tobacco was found to be the major risk of OSCC with the OD of 16.19, followed by betel quid (OD-4.56) and H. pylori infection (OD-0.83). Conclusion: The results of this pilot study do not establish a definite causal relationship between H. pylori and OSCC due to the low sample size. Study definitely offers an avenue for further work on larger populations to confirm this possible association.
Quality Characteristics of Carrot (Daucus carota L.) Puree Supplemented with Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)
Authors: Gomaa M. M. , Gomaa M. A. , El-All W. M. M. Abd
Published: March 2021

The present study was performed to get a product loaded of nutrients in terms of protein, amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. The product had been made from mixtures of carrot and quinoa puree with mixing ratios 10%, 20% and 30% to reach the highest nutritional value and the best general palatability for the consumer. Carrot puree blends were analyzed for nutritional, chemical, microbial and sensory properties. It was found that by increasing the mixing ratio of quinoa with proportion of carrot the protein ratio reached 5.959 gm/100gm in blend (4) compared with 1.845gm/100 gm in blend (1). The best and highest results were in terms of protein and amino acids, especially essential ones, carrot quinoa puree in comparison with control indicated increase in minerals such as calcium 47.666 mg/100gm and iron 6.107 mg/100gm in blend (4) compared with the control were 35.171 mg/100gm and 3.242 mg/100gm, respectively.  It was concluded that the greater the percentage of quinoa in substitution the higher the nutritional value and the better general acceptance. As for general palatability, the mixtures contained 10% followed by 20% had a slight difference until the end of the experiment.

Therefore, it is recommended to utilize the quinoa seeds because of their high nutritional values in nutrition, where for children, the elderly and vegetarian people in several forms as flour in the baked goods or in a puree form added to fruits and vegetables.
Experiences of Personnel in Accreditations in Higher Educational Institution: Concerns and Actions
Authors: Galvez Rhenmar M. , Fuentes Augie E.
Published: March 2021

Aims: To determine the experiences of the participants who were involved in the accreditation process

Study Design:  Qualitative-phenomenology

Place and Duration of Study: Southern Philippines Agribusiness and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology for five months.

Methodology: The participants were 12 program area leaders, and Internal Assessment Board in-charge. They were grouped into four and interviewed using the validated interview guide questionnaire.

Results: Themes which concern emotional issues themes were: utilizing archive, enjoying unintended outcome, negotiating time availability, and dealing with inconveniences. Moreover, emerging themes describing the problems encountered in the 10 areas of accreditation included: lack of support, difficulties in documents preparation, utilized personal resources, undefined and unclear dissemination of tasks.  Finally, themes for solutions conducted were: necessity of training and workshop, provision of matrix of activity, familiarity of the different tools and program offerings, and establish monitoring team.

Conclusion: Preparations are the key to accreditations. The preparation processes should not start months before the scheduled accreditation visit rather right after the commencement of the previous visit. Qualified persons who are knowledgeable on accreditation processes should be. Higher education administration should observed due diligence. 

Recommendation: College’s Quality Assurance (QA) individuals may be trained to become knowledgeable on the processes of accreditation; preparations for accreditation may be done way ahead of the scheduled visit; area leaders may manage their time in the preparation of documents to avoid discrepancies during accreditation; reorganization of area leaders may be prevented to avoid unfamiliarity of tasks; budget for accreditation processes may be provided; appropriate incentives may be given for those who work overtime; the principle of “Every day is an Accreditation Day” may be observed in order to cultivate among the staff of the college the essence of accreditation. Lastly, creation of College Accreditation Coordinating Council may be created to oversee the processes of accreditation and serve as the focal point for strategic planning.
Deaf Educators’ Attitudes towards Inclusive Education in the Gauteng Province, South Africa
Authors: Mdikana Andile Alfred
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to explore the nature of the attitudes of Deaf educators towards inclusive education. The respondents were a non-probability sample of seven educators (Speaking educators = 3 and Deaf educator = 4) aged between 40 years and 55 years and with more than five years of teaching Deaf learners. A questionnaire with open-ended questions was designed and piloted before being administered. The data collected was analysed thematically. The results show that the respondents have a negative attitude towards inclusive education, with the main reason given being that mainstream schools are not yet ready for inclusion.
How Do New Media Promote Health and Wellness Tourism in Southwest China
Authors: Yen Tsai-Fa(TF)
Published: March 2021

This study is aimed at investigating the applications of new media on health and wellness tourism marketing and offer relevant suggestions. Data was collected by depth interview in Sichuan province, southwest China. A total of twelve respondents were conducted. Based on the analysis and discussion, this study found that the meaning respondents perceived of health and wellness tourism is generally in line with the academic definition; respondents who enjoy health and wellness tourism are accustomed to dealing with travel problems through such new media as WeChat and Weibo; the problems of new media in the applications of health and wellness tourism marketing mainly focus on information issues, including the accuracy, reliability, and authenticity of information; and the new media can meet the information needs of respondents with health and wellness tourism.
Acute Ischemic Stroke in COVID-19 Patient with Lung Collapse: A Case Report
Authors: Nawazish Mahpara , Iqbal Sana , Butt Mujeeb Ur Rehman Abid
Published: March 2021

Novel corona virus 2019 also known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS COV2] is enveloped non segmented ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus. Acute ischemic stroke remains emergency during covid19 pandemic [1] Here we present a case of a woman with COVID 19 who presented to us with symptoms of altered state of consciousness (ASOC), cough, fever, dysarthria, right sided body weakness and massive bilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA)/ anterior. Our case was unique in the sense that it showed drastic central nervous system (CNS) damage in the presence of coronavirus infection. There are a few cases of patients who develop stroke after COVID 19 infection.

Aims: Clinicians need to be aware of possible causes of unconsciousness in coronavirus disease (COVID 19) patients, particularly as delirium appears to be common complications to find out the association between stroke and COVID 19 and its impact and mortality.

Case Presentation: A 70 years old lady presented to us with symptoms of stroke like ASOC, right sided body weakness, dysarthria, and symptoms of pneumonia like mild cough and fever later which turned out to be COVID 19. Clinicians need to be aware of possible causes of unconsciousness in coronavirus disease (COVID 19) patients, particularly as delirium appears to be common complications to find out the association between stroke and COVID 19 and its impact and mortality.

Discussion: Bilateral ischemic stroke is relatively uncommon presentation in general population and is usually the result of cardio embolic cause such as atrial fibrillation and recent myocardial infarction. While this patient had pre existing risk factors for stroke such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension and old age and her electrocardiography showed sinus rhythm.

Conclusion: COVID-19 may be a risk factor or aggravating factor for stroke.
General Methods of Teaching Music in the Primary School
Authors: Adjepong Benjamin
Published: March 2021

Pupils learn music through many and different ways. Various methods, approaches and strategies of teaching are described in the literature. Teaching music is an art and activity which require teachers to use a combination or an integration of some of these methods and strategies to provide effective learning experiences to pupils. The aim of this article is to present overviews of some general approaches and strategies of teaching music based on the constructivist theory of teaching in the primary school. It will cover the lecture, demonstration and modelling, discovery, video showing, field trip, role-play, project, questioning technique, assignment, and the discovery methods of teaching. The paper will also highlight factors that determine the selection of a teaching method for a particular lesson and finally, stages in teaching.
Role of Phytocompounds En Route Blood-brain Barrier in Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Nath Debjani , Khanam Nasima , Ghosh Ashutosh
Published: March 2021

Aims: Cerebral ischemia is a condition that occurs when the blood vessels in the brain are occluded. Subsequent pathophysiological changes include critical structural and functional damage to the blood-brain barrier. Since remedies for restoring the blood-brain barrier are lacking, alternative methods are important. This study aims to discuss the potential role of phytochemicals in ameliorating blood-brain barrier inflammation and hyperpermeability.

Methodology: This literature review is based on information available in open source databases for the scientific community.

Results: Phytochemicals offer a large resource for neuroprotective cure. Different categories of phytochemical compounds have provided safer and accessible means of medication. A number of phytochemicals have demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The respective mechanisms of action have also been discovered for many. Phytochemicals generally inhibit the classic inflammatory signalling molecules, in addition to other pathways. Phytochemicals also strengthen the tight junctional complexes in the blood-brain barrier. Thus phytochemicals substantially improve the affected blood-brain barrier after cerebral ischemia.

Conclusion: Phytochemicals possess useful properties directed towards the healing of the blood-brain barrier in cerebral ischemia and further research may elevate phytochemicals as approved therapeutics.
Immunomodulatory Activity on Specific Immune Function in Albino Mice Exposed to Extract and Fractions of Zapoteca portoricensis (Jacq) HM. Hernández Roots
Authors: Warren Oghenesuvwe D. , Obi Bonaventure C. , Abonyi Uchenna C. , Akunne Theophine C.
Published: March 2021

Zapoteca portoricensis (Jacq) HM. Hernández popularly called “Elugelu” belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is reportedly used in traditional medicine as anti-diarrhoea, anticonvulsant, antispasmodic and in management of autoimmune disorders. The immunomodulatory activity of methanol root extract and fractions of Zapoteca portoricensis was evaluated using three experimental models: neutrophil adhesion, haemagglutination antibody (HA) titre and delayed hypersensitivity (DTH) of an immune response in mice. Five (5) groups of mice (n=5) were used; group I was the normal control; group II was the standard control (levamisole, 2.5 mg/kg) while groups IIIA–C, IVA–C and VA–C received graded doses (25, 50, 100 mg/kg) of methanol extract (ME), ethyl acetate fraction (EF) and methanol fraction (MF), respectively. Sheep red blood cells (SRBCs; 0.1 ml) were injected subcutaneously to sensitize the animals. The study results showed that the methanol fraction (MF) exhibited the highest percentage (46.12%) in neutrophil adhesion followed by the ethyl acetate fraction (EF) (37.06%) at 100 mg/kg dose, respectively, compared with the normal control. The highest percentage increase in both primary and secondary antibody titre was found to be ME (85.19%, 43.20%), EF (91.53%, 102.67%) and MF (128.31%, 111.89%) at 50 mg/kg dose, respectively compared to the normal control. The EF at the doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg produced the highest percentage inhibition (56.57%, 58.33%) in DTH response, respectively, followed by MF (42.46%) at a dose of 25 mg/kg. Oral administration of Z. portoricensis exhibited immunomodulatory effects on specific components of the immune system in mice.
A Rare Case of an Elderly Woman with Delusional Parasitosis (Ekbom’s Syndrome)
Authors: Rizwan A. S. M. , Akhter Shahida
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Delusional parasitosis is a form of relatively rare psychiatric disorder in which the sufferer holds firms false believe of their skin being infested by parasite. On 1938 scientist Ekbom published a case report detailing 8 patients suffering from this delusional perception and hence this condition is also known as Ekbom’s syndrome.

Case Presentation: We present a 67 years old normotensive non diabetic female patient who was brought to the outpatient Department by her son with complain that, insects are crawling under her skin. She has been suffering from this condition for three years and it was causing tremendous psychosocial and physical adverse consequences. She has never been on treatment by any specialist before but has received treatment from traditional village healers with little improvement.

Conclusion: Ekbom’s syndrome is a rare yet important delusional disorder. This is a hard to treat condition that Doctors should be aware of.
Morpho-physical Properties of Soils of Kanamadi South Sub-watershed of Karnataka
Authors: Souza Ashay D. , Patil P. L.
Published: March 2021

An investigation was carried out to determine the morpho-physical status of soils of Kanamadi South sub- watershed in Karnataka state of India. A detailed soil survey of Kanamadi South sub watershed was carried out using IRS P6 LISS-IV image and a total of ten pedon location  which were well distributed in Kanamadi South sub-watershed was selected. The soils were shallow to deep. Colour of pedons varied from 10 YR 2/1 (black) to 10 YR 4/3 (brown). Soil texture varied from clay to clay loam, having loose to moderately subangular to angular blocky in structure with few fine roots distributed in surface horizons. Generally, the clay content increased with depth. Consistency of soil pedons ranged from slightly hard to hard when dry, friable to firm when moist, slightly sticky to very sticky and slightly plastic to very plastic when wet. The maximum water holding capacity of soil horizons ranged from 59.65 to 79.15 per cent and generally increased down the depth. The bulk density of pedons varied from 1.17 to 1.37 Mg m-3. In general, bulk density varied with depth with lowest bulk density at surface and highest recorded in sub surface depths. The field capacity varied from 28.21% to 41.32 %.The morphological and physical properties study in area helps for resource inventorization for successful watershed planning for soil and water conservation to enhance the potential of fertility of soils and major fertility enhancement to increase the soil productivity.
Bifurcation Results for a Fractional Quasilinear System with Critical Nonlinearities
Authors: Zhi Zhen , Yang Zuodong
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we prove bifurcation results for a fractional quasilinear system with critical nonlinearities. Under different assumptions on the exponents of nonlinearities, we give existenceresults respectively.
Mathematical Modelling of Surface-Groundwater Interactions under Varying Hydrological Conditions: Review of Past Works
Authors: Vanikar Jyoti Chetan , Bansal Rajeev Kumar , Basotia Vineeta
Published: March 2021

Surface-groundwater interaction is a research area of significant importance for its central role in wastewater treatment, irrigation, drainage, flood control, erosion and sediment control. Mathematical models are often used for the estimation of surface-groundwater interactions under the variety of hydrological conditions. Due to cost effectiveness and ability to accommodate variations in aquifer parameters, mathematical models have gained immense importance in the past few decades. The objective of this review paper is to portray the contribution of the hydrologist towards the growing area of surface-ground water interaction from all over the world who proposed, analyzed, executed and validated the developed Mathematical models. To begin with, we briefly introduce the main mathematical equations that govern the flow of groundwater in unconfined and confined aquifer systems. The development of stream-aquifer models is presented in a chronological order to provide a clear understanding of the contributions of past works. The methodology used in the past work is adequately discussed without going into mathematical details. Furthermore, we also summarize recent developments concerning groundwater flow in presence of vertical streambed, partial penetration, stream-stage variations and multiple recharge/discharge basins.
Awareness of Folic Acid Intake among Women of Childbearing Age in Ha’il region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khan Farida Habib Khan , Alahmed Shog K. , Alsaad Wijdan S. , Alshammari Ashwaq H.
Published: March 2021

Background: Folic acid deficiency is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies among women of childbearing-age. Folic acid is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin. Although the deficiency is easily corrected by administration of folic acid, but still the prevalence of folic acid deficiency is high. It can lead to neural tube defects (NTDs) in fetus, which are a major cause of severe disability and mortality among infant population, occurring in over one quarter of a million new-borns per year, worldwide. NTDs occur in the very early phase of pregnancy when the mother herself does not know that she is pregnant. This study has assessed awareness of women of childbearing age on folic acid i.e., timing of folic acid supplementation, different sources, symptoms of its deficiency, toxicity and its effect on fetus. Study was conducted in Ha’il region and its suburbs, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the period between October 2020 and February 2021.

Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional community-based study was carried out among 842 women aged between18 and 45 years using a close-ended questionnaire.

Results: In total, Folic Acid was taken by just 23.87% of participants. Only 33% knew that Folic Acid deficiency causes neural tube defects in fetus. Further it was revealed that postgraduates had a significantly better knowledge on Folic Acid  0.000) than others. Similarly, those who belonged to household where total monthly income was 5000 Saudi Riyals or more had better awareness on Folic Acid than participants who belonged to low socioeconomic status (  0.05).

Conclusion: It’s concluded that in Ha’il and its suburb area, women of childbearing age do not possess adequate knowledge on Folic Acid. Neural tube defects in fetus due to folic acid deficiency were not known by a large majority of respondents. However, awareness has a strong association with educational level and socioeconomic status. Hence it is recommended that female literacy and female employment should be promoted, encouraged and supported in Kingdom in order to improve our health indicators.
Tuberculosis/HIV Co-infection among Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Maori Lynn , Mohammed Kabiru , Ibrahim Garba
Published: March 2021

Background: Tuberculosis is a global health problem associated with high morbidity and mortality. Rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis is essential for early disease management. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that gradually attacks the immune system and the immune system is our body’s natural defence against illness. Co-infection of TB and HIV is when someone has both HIV and TB infections. This study determined the TB/HIV Co-infection among IDP’s.

Methodology: A total of 130 sputum samples from suspected tuberculosis patients were examined from August 2020 to September 2020.

Result: Fifty-nine patients 59(45.4%) were males and seventy-one 71 patients (54.6%) were females. Seventeen patients (13.07%) had tuberculosis. Ten (10) cases of the TB patients were found to be co-infected with HIV. The CD4+ cell count of the TB/HIV co-infected patients falls below 250 cells/mm3 compared to the mono-infected patients who had CD4+ above 250 cells/mm3.

Conclusion: This study showed that TB/HIV coinfection was associated with age group 21-40 years was high.
Making buprenorphine more accessible is goal of 3 bills: MAT, MATE and TREATS
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2021

More than two decades after the Food and Drug Administration's approval of buprenorphine‐naloxone as a treatment for opioid use disorder, Congress, which wasn't exactly enthusiastic back then, is now looking at three separate bills, all of which would loosen the regulations that made those bills possible.
Pharmacists can prescribe and dispense buprenorphine
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2021

“Collaborative care” involving buprenorphine prescribers and community pharmacists is well accepted by patients in the United States, a recent study has found.
Partitioning Behavior of Nb, Ta, and Zr in Fully Lamellar γ/α2 Titanium Aluminides and Its Effect on the Lattice Misfit and Creep Behavior
Authors: Neumeier Steffen , Bresler Johannes , Zenk Carolin , Haußmann Lukas , Stark Andreas , Pyczak Florian , Göken Mathias
Published: March 2021

Previous investigations revealed that Nb, Ta, and Zr improve the creep properties of fully lamellar titanium aluminides significantly. The enhanced creep properties can originate from different potential effects of the alloying elements. Herein, the elements’ partitioning between α2‐Ti3Al and γ‐TiAl and their influence on the lattice parameters of ternary Ti–44Al–5X (X = Nb, Ta, Zr) alloys are investigated in comparison with a binary Ti−44Al alloy by atom probe tomography and high‐energy X‐ray diffraction. Ta partitions nearly equally between α2 and γ, Nb accumulates slightly in γ, and Zr enriches strongly in γ. As all alloying elements have a larger radius than Ti, a stronger partitioning to γ decreases the lattice misfit more. The synchrotron measurements show a clear influence of the alloying elements on the lattice parameters and resulting lattice misfits in γ‐ and γ‐ direction as well as the c/a ratio. In accordance with theoretical calculations based on the partitioning behavior, the lattice misfit decreases from Ti–44Al–5Ta over Ti–44Al–5Nb to Ti–44Al–5Zr. The c/a ratio decreases from Ti–44Al–5Nb over Ti–44Al–5Ta to Ti–44Al–5Zr. A correlation between the measured lattice misfits of the ternary Ti−44Al−5X with their primary creep strains is found, as the primary creep strain decreases with decreasing lattice misfit.
Interfacial Engineering Promoting Electrosynthesis of Ammonia over Mo/Phosphotungstic Acid with High Performance
Authors: Liao Wanru , Qi Lu , Wang Yanlei , Qin Jingyu , Liu Guangyong , Liang Shijing , He Hongyan , Jiang Lilong
Published: March 2021

Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (eNRR) is recognized as a promising approach for ammonia synthesis, which is, however, impeded by the inert nitrogen and the unavoidable competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Here, a Mo‐PTA@CNT electrocatalyst in which Mo species are anchored on the fourfold hollow sites of phosphotungstic acid (PTA) and closely embedded in multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) for immobilization is designed and synthesized. Interestingly, the catalyst presents a high ammonia yield rate of 51 ± 1 µg h−1 mgcat.−1 and an excellent Faradaic efficiency of 83 ± 1% at −0.1 V versus RHE under ambient conditions. The concentrations of NH4+ are also quantitatively calculated by 1H NMR spectra and ion chromatography. Isotopic labeling identifies that the N atom of the formed NH3 originates from N2. The controlled experiments confirm a strong interaction between Mo‐PTA and N2 with an adsorption energy of 50.46 kJ mol−1 and activation energy of 21.36 kJ mol−1. More importantly, due to CNT's gas storage and hydrophobicity properties, there is a fourfold increase in N2 content. The concentration of H2O is reduced by more than half at the interface of the electrode. Thus, the activity of eNRR can be significantly improved with ultrahigh electron selectivity.
Single‐Cell Microgels for Diagnostics and Therapeutics
Authors: Dubay Ryan , Urban Joseph N. , Darling Eric M.
Published: March 2021

Cell encapsulation within hydrogel droplets is transforming what is feasible in multiple fields of biomedical science such as tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, in vitro modeling, and cell‐based therapies. Recent advances have allowed researchers to miniaturize material encapsulation complexes down to single‐cell scales, where each complex, termed a single‐cell microgel, contains only one cell surrounded by a hydrogel matrix while remaining <100 μm in size. With this achievement, studies requiring single‐cell resolution are now possible, similar to those done using liquid droplet encapsulation. Of particular note, applications involving long‐term in vitro cultures, modular bioinks, high‐throughput screenings, and formation of 3D cellular microenvironments can be tuned independently to suit the needs of individual cells and experimental goals. In this progress report, an overview of established materials and techniques used to fabricate single‐cell microgels, as well as insight into potential alternatives is provided. This focused review is concluded by discussing applications that have already benefited from single‐cell microgel technologies, as well as prospective applications on the cusp of achieving important new capabilities.
Organic Hybrid Perovskite (MAPbI3−xClx) for Thermochromic Smart Window with Strong Optical Regulation Ability, Low Transition Temperature, and Narrow Hysteresis Width
Authors: Liu Sai , Du Yu Wei , Tso Chi Yan , Lee Hau Him , Cheng Rui , Feng Shien‐Ping , Yu Kin Man
Published: March 2021

Recently, organic hybrid halide perovskites have been found to show thermochromism with good optical performance, which can be applied in smart windows to reduce building energy consumption. However, these perovskites have shortcomings regarding their thermochromic performance, namely long transition time, high transition temperature, and large transition hysteresis width. In this study, a hydrated MAPbI3−xClx thermochromic perovskite smart window (H‐MAPbI3−xClx TPSW) is proposed, which undergoes a reversible transition between a transparent state and a dark reddish‐brown tinted state with a high solar modulation ability of 23.7%. Most importantly, the H‐MAPbI3−xClx TPSW possesses a tunable low transition temperature of 29.4 to 51.4 °C, a controllable and narrow transition hysteresis width (7.7–13.2 °C) and a short transition time (1–4 min). Additionally, a mathematical model is developed to predict the transition temperature of the H‐MAPbI3−xClx TPSW. A field test is also conducted, demonstrating that the H‐MAPbI3−xClx TPSW fitted to a model house can reduce the indoor air temperature by 3.5 °C compared to using a quartz glass window. Overall, the H‐MAPbI3−xClx TPSW can yield excellent optical properties, while simultaneously providing remarkable transition properties, making it potentially useful for a wide range of applications in energy‐efficient buildings.
Engineering Vanadium Pentoxide Cathode for the Zero‐Strain Cation Storage via a Scalable Intercalation‐Polymerization Approach
Authors: Wang Zhiqiao , Tang Xiaoyu , Yuan Song , Bai Miao , Wang Helin , Liu Siyuan , Zhang Min , Ma Yue
Published: March 2021

The layered V2O5 cathode exhibits appealing features of multiple electron redox processes and versatile cation‐storage capacities. However, the huge volume respiration induces structural collapse and limits its commercial‐scale deployment. Herein, a scalable water‐bath strategy is developed to tailor the (001) spacing of the bulk V2O5 from the original 4.37 Å to its triple value (14.2 Å). The intercalated polyaniline (PANI) molecules act as pillars in the V2O5 interlayer, thus affording the abundant storage sites and enhanced cation diffusivities of Li+, Na+, or hydrated Zn2+. Upon various cations (de‐)intercalation, transmission‐mode operando X‐ray diffraction is employed to document the zero‐strain behavior of the PANI‐intercalated V2O5. This scalable intercalation‐polymerization strategy, coupled with the compatibility study of the ionic radius and the c‐lattice for the layered structure, enables the rational engineering of the intercalation‐type cathodes toward facile reaction kinetics.
An Intelligent Transdermal Formulation of ALA‐Loaded Copolymer Thermogel with Spontaneous Asymmetry by Using Temperature‐Induced Sol–Gel Transition and Gel–Sol (Suspension) Transition on Different Sides
Authors: Cao Dinglingge , Chen Xi , Cao Feng , Guo Wen , Tang Jingyu , Cai Caiyun , Cui Shuquan , Yang Xiaowei , Yu Lin , Su Yong , Ding Jiandong
Published: March 2021

Aqueous solutions of some amphiphilic block copolymers undergo a sol–gel transition upon heating and are thus called thermogels. In the thermogel family, some systems also exhibit a gel–sol (suspension) transition at higher temperatures following the sol–gel transition, which is usually ignored in biomedical applications. Herein, for the first time, a case is reported employing both the sol–gel transition and the gel–sol (suspension) transition, which is found in the development of a transdermal hydrogel formulation containing 5‐aminolevulinic acid for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of skin disease. Two poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) triblock copolymers of different block lengths are synthesized. The transition temperatures of the formulation can be easily adjusted to meet the condition of sol–gel transition temperature (Tgel) < room temperature (Tair) < gel–sol (suspension) temperature (Tsol (suspension)) < body temperature (Tbody) via changing the blending ratio. Therefore, after applying to skin, formulation of spontaneous asymmetry with a hydrogel outside and a sol (suspension) inside can avoid free flowing and achieve rapid release to ensure an efficient PDT. This study demonstrates such a concept via characterizations of the “block blend” biomaterials and drug release profiles, and also via cell experiments, in vitro permeation, and in vivo transdermal delivery studies.
High Performance of Simple Organic Phosphorescence Host–Guest Materials and their Application in Time‐Resolved Bioimaging
Authors: Wang Yunsheng , Gao Heqi , Yang Jie , Fang Manman , Ding Dan , Tang Ben Zhong , Li Zhen
Published: March 2021

The study of purely organic room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) has drawn increasing attention because of its considerable theoretical research and practical application value. Currently, organic RTP materials with both high efficiency (ΦP > 20%) and a long lifetime (τP > 10 s) in air are still scarce due to the lack of related design guidance. Here, a new strategy to increase the phosphorescence performance of organic materials by integrating the RTP host and RTP guest in one doping system to form a triplet exciplex, is reported. With these materials, the high‐contrast labeling of tumors in living mice and encrypted patterns in thermal printing are both successfully realized by taking advantage of both the long afterglow time (up to 25 min in aqueous media) and high phosphorescence efficiency (43%).
Unraveling Activity and Decomposition Pathways of [FeFe] Hydrogenase Mimics Covalently Bonded to Silicon Photoelectrodes
Authors: Williams Nicholas B. , Nash Aaron , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Patrick Margaret , Tran Ich C. , Gu Jing
Published: March 2021

The presence of molecular monolayers on semiconductor surfaces can improve the stability of semiconductor interfaces by inhibiting the growth of native oxides and defects which affect the materials’ electronic properties. The development of catalytically active passivated interfaces on semiconductor materials presents a useful material design for value‐added product conversion. Herein, an iron‐based catalyst covalently attached to silicon (Si) is reported for the investigation of activity and electrochemical decomposition pathways of diiron hydrogenase enzyme mimics. The employed catalyst, Fe2(CO)6(µ‐S‐C6H4‐p‐OH)2 ([FeFe]), mimics the active sites of these enzymes. Surface modification using this catalyst passivates the interface, hindering the formation of native SiO2 for more than 300 h. [FeFe] modification improves the overpotential required to produce 10 mA cm–2 by 100 mV, with a hydrogen evolution rate of 2.31 × 10–5 mol h–1 cm–2 (−0.78 V versus RHE). However, structural rearrangement transpires within 1 h of electrolysis, where Fe‐S bond dissociates at the catalytic center, resulting in an aromatic linkage modified Si interface. While semiconductor−catalyst interfaces have often been reported in the literature, their decomposition pathways have received limited discussion. Herein, this Si−[FeFe] interface is used as a tool for understanding the activity and decomposition mechanisms of the attached molecular catalyst.
Skin‐like Elastomer Embedded Zinc Oxide Nanoarrays for Biomechanical Energy Harvesting
Authors: Jin Congran , Dong Lin , Xu Zhe , Closson Andrew , Cabe Andrew , Gruslova Aleksandra , Jenney Scott , Escobedo Danny , Elliott James , Zhang Michael , Hao Nanjing , Chen Zi , Feldman Marc D. , Zhang John X. J.
Published: March 2021

Energy harvesting (EH) technologies have been rapidly developed to replace the batteries of biomechanical electronics, but efforts are still needed to close the technology gaps in achieving flexible and biocompatible energy harvesters. Current flexible energy harvesters based on ZnO nanoarrays require complex fabrication processes, and they are non‐stretchable as they are usually fabricated on hard substrates. In this work, a facile approach is reported for fabricating a substrate‐free energy harvester with ZnO nanoarrays directly and fully embedded in a skin‐like polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomeric matrix that shares a similar mechanical property with that of human skin. The flexible device, with an elastic modulus of 3.3 MPa, can be stretched to 250% of its original length, generates an open‐circuit voltage up to 9.2 Vpp and power LEDs from finger‐hand motions. Further, the device collects energy from hand‐finger motions and heartbeats through ex and in vivo tests. A ≈0.3 Vpp open circuit voltage is generated from the device installed on a leadless pacemaker in a porcine model. This work suggests a generic design strategy that overcomes the mechanical mismatch between the energy materials and soft tissues for a wide range of biomechanical EH applications from wearables to implantable ones.
Ultrathin 2D/2D ZnIn2S4/g‐C3N4 Nanosheet Heterojunction with Atomic‐Level Intimate Interface for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution under Visible Light
Authors: Dang Xinyu , Xie Mingsen , Dai Fangfang , Guo Jinna , Liu Jia , Lu Xiaoquan
Published: March 2021

Designation of high‐efficiency water splitting photocatalyst is still a challenge in converting solar energy into chemical fuels. Heterojunction can inhibit recombination of carriers which is considered to be a reliable strategy to improve photocatalytic performance on water splitting. In this work, a “face‐to‐face” 2D tight heterostructure is constructed by growing ZnIn2S4 nanosheets on g‐C3N4 nanosheets. Due to the ultrathin 2D structure and large amounts of NS bonds forming at the interface of heterojunction affording charge transferring tunnel, the synthesized 2D heterojunction photocatalysts successfully accelerate the carrier migration rate and decrease recombination probability of photogenerated electrons and holes. As a result, the optimized ZISCN‐50 sample has excellent photocatalytic H2 production activity (10.92 mmol h−1 g−1) under visible light, which is ≈5.2 times of ZnIn2S4 (2.09 mmol h−1 g−1) and 136.5 times of pure g‐C3N4 nanosheets (0.08 mmol h−1 g−1). Cycle experiments show that the composite material has excellent stability and recyclability. This work provides fresh insights into atomic‐level structure and interface design in order to synthesize high‐efficiency 2D/2D heterojunction photocatalysts.
Paired Electrosynthesis of Aromatic Azo Compounds from Aryl Diazonium Salts with Pyrroles or Indoles
Authors: He Mu‐Xue , Wu Yu‐Zheng , Yao Yan , Mo Zu‐Yu , Pan Ying‐Ming , Tang Hai‐Tao
Published: March 2021

An efficient paired electrosynthesis of functionalized aromatic azo compounds through a diazenyl radical pathway has been developed. The paired electrolysis simultaneously uses the anode and cathode reactions to avoid the electricity expense of oxidation/reduction of sacrificial substances, thereby maximizing energy efficiency and achieving high atom economy. The in vitro cytotoxicity of all compounds was evaluated against four cancer cell lines by MTT assay. Results showed that the aromatic azo compounds exhibited good antitumor activity in vitro, and one of the compounds induced tumor cell apoptosis.

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Visible‐Light‐Induced Decarboxylative Acylation of Pyridine N‐Oxides with α‐Oxocarboxylic Acids Using Fluorescein Dimethylammonium as a Photocatalyst
Authors: Hou Chuanfu , Sun Shouneng , Liu Ziqi , Zhang Hui , Liu Yue , An Qi , Zhao Jian , Ma Junjie , Sun Zhizhong , Chu Wenyi
Published: March 2021

Herein, the development of a visible‐light‐induced catalytic system to achieve the decarboxylative acylation of pyridine N‐oxides with α‐oxocarboxylic acids, at room temperature and using the organic dye fluorescein dimethylammonium as a new type of photocatalyst, is reported. A series of 2‐arylacylpyridine N‐oxides were selectively synthesized in moderate to good yields by controlling the polarity of the reaction solvent. The developed strategy was successfully applied in the synthesis of an important intermediate of the drug, acrivastine, on a gram scale. Notably, this is the first time that fluorescein dimethylammonium has been used to catalyze the Minisci‐type C−H decarboxylative acylation reaction. The mechanism of decarboxylative acylation was studied by capturing adducts of acyl radicals and 1,1‐diphenylethylene to confirm a radical mechanism. The disclosed catalytic system provides a green synthetic strategy for decarboxylative acylation without the use of additional oxidants or metal catalysts.

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Magnetic Response of Magnetoactive Elastomers with Allowance for Slippage at the Particle‐Matrix Interfaces
Authors: Vaganov Mikhail V. , Borin Dmitry Yu. , Odenbach Stefan , Raikher Yuriy L.
Published: March 2021

A new model to describe magnetization of a magnetoactive elastomer (MAE) filled with magnetically hard powder is proposed. The magnetization process is treated as a result of a joint contribution of an assembly of single‐domain particles each of which dwells inside its own elastomer cavity. Magnetization of such a particle is a complex magnetomechanical process that combines intrinsic magnetization reversal and particle mechanical rotation. Possible slippage of the particles, in the course of which they disconnect from the matrix and, on their move, rub against the cavity wall, is explicitly taken into account. The influence of the slippage effect on the macroscopic magnetization of the composite is analyzed by means of computer simulation. Occurrence of asymmetrical magnetization loops of single‐domain particles located in an elastic medium is demonstrated. It is shown that by allowing for the slippage, it becomes possible to explain the experimentally observed anomalously low but non‐zero half‐width (coercivity) of the hysteresis loops of the MAE samples.
Adipocyte Fatty Acid Binding Protein Promotes the Onset and Progression of Liver Fibrosis via Mediating the Crosstalk between Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Hepatic Stellate Cells
Authors: Wu Xiaoping , Shu Lingling , Zhang Zixuan , Li Jingjing , Zong Jiuyu , Cheong Lai Yee , Ye Dewei , Lam Karen S. L. , Song Erfei , Wang Cunchuan , Xu Aimin , Hoo Ruby L. C.
Published: March 2021

Development of liver fibrosis results in drastic changes in the liver microenvironment, which in turn accelerates disease progression. Although the pathological function of various hepatic cells in fibrogenesis is identified, the crosstalk between them remains obscure. The present study demonstrates that hepatic expression of adipocyte fatty acid binding protein (A‐FABP) is induced especially in the liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in mice after bile duct ligation (BDL). Genetic ablation and pharmacological inhibition of A‐FABP attenuate BDL‐ or carbon tetrachloride‐induced liver fibrosis in mice associating with reduced collagen accumulation, LSEC capillarization, and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. Mechanistically, elevated A‐FABP promotes LSEC capillarization by activating Hedgehog signaling, thus impairs the gatekeeper function of LSEC on HSC activation. LSEC‐derived A‐FABP also acts on HSCs in paracrine manner to potentiate the transactivation of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) by activating c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK)/c‐Jun signaling. Elevated TGFβ1 subsequently exaggerates liver fibrosis. These findings uncover a novel pathological mechanism of liver fibrosis in which LSEC‐derived A‐FABP is a key regulator modulating the onset and progression of the disease. Targeting A‐FABP may represent a potential approach against liver fibrosis.
Fabrication of Oriented n‐Type Thermoelectric Polymers by Polarity Switching in a DPP‐Based Donor–Acceptor Copolymer Doped with FeCl3
Authors: Zeng Huiyan , Mohammed Mohammed , Untilova Viktoriia , Boyron Olivier , Berton Nicolas , Limelette Patrice , Schmaltz Bruno , Brinkmann Martin
Published: March 2021

n‐Type‐doped polymers are key elements to fabricate all‐polymer thermoelectric generators but they are challenging to produce. Herein, a new strategy is proposed, which is based on polarity switching upon doping of a donor–acceptor (D–A) copolymer based on diketopyrrolopyrrol (DPP) and quintethiophene (5T) with FeCl3. Polarity switching from p‐type to n‐type is observed upon increasing the doping concentration of FeCl3. An analysis based on nonmonotonic density of states is proposed, which accounts for the main experimental trends and demonstrates that the polarity switch is governed by the electronic band filling that is determined by the dopant concentration. The influence of the curvature of the density of states is in addition discussed and a complete description of the doping induced transport regimes is proposed. This polarity switching depends on the molecular weight Mn of the polymer and shifts to higher FeCl3 concentrations with increasing Mn. This behavior is attributed to the change of the width of the density of states with Mn. The combination of polarity switching and alignment is a means to produce n‐type‐like oriented and conducting polymers with enhanced power factors up to 10 µW K−2 m−1 along the chain direction.