bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Acoustic Waves in a Teaching Classroom using Finite Element Method
Authors: Bárcenas C. A. Wilson , Rangel J. M. Horta , Hernández M. A. Pérez Lara y , Zaragoza J. B. Hernández , Rea M. L. Pérez , Moreno L. F. Pérez
Published: September 2021

Aims: To understand the behavior of acoustic waves in a specific classroom in order to get a configuration of panels and ceilings configuration to improve reception and clarity of internal sounds. This was possible by the modification of the properties of the enclosure, sush as the absorption coefficients of internal surfaces. The analysis was carried out through the implementation of a model by using Finite Element Method.

Study Design: The acoustic behavior that enclosure for academic use require is discussed, indicating that it is common to find deficiencies in the acoustic architecture of enclosures, and the risks that this causes to cognitive and academic development, as a consequence of low understanding.

Place and Duration of Study: Graduate Engineering Department, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, between August 2020 and June 2021.

Methodology: The problem is solved by applying the finite element method. This implies that the essential concepts for the understanding of this subject are reviewed, such as; acoustic physics, mechanics of the continuous medium and finite element method.

Results: After multiple analized scenarios, it was observed that while there is an absorption greater than the surface, the material of the panel or ceiling is not relevant. On the other hand, the size and surface where is located the panels turned out to be more relevant parameters.

Conclusion: Considering the proposed alternatives, an increase in the Sound Pressure Level and a uniform distribution can be observed. The use of computational tools help to understand the behavior and distribution of acoustic waves in the classroom, which can provide an overview of different adaptations.
The Energy of Conjugate Graph of Some Finite Metabelian Groups of Order Less Than 24
Authors: Mahmud M. S. , Malle A. A. , Chibuisi C. , Idris M. Z.
Published: September 2021

The conjugacy classes of the Metabelian group G, plays an important role in defining the conjugate graph, whose vertices are non-central elements of G, and two vertices are connected if and only if they are conjugate. The constructions of conjugate graphs of all non abelian metabelian groups of order less than 24 are the basis for this paper. And the obtained results are then used to calculate the energy of the aforementioned group. This is aided by specialized programming software (maple).
Evaluation of Spatio-Temporal Soil Moisture Variability in Semi-Arid Rangeland Ecosystem, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Authors: Kapkwang Charles C. , Onyando Japheth O. , Kundu Peter M. , Hoedjes Joost
Published: September 2021

Aim: To evaluate the spatio-temporal soil moisture storage and retention capacities in semi-arid rangeland ecosystem, Maasai Mara National Reserve (MMNR), Kenya

Study Design: Randomized complete block design (RCBD) of reference Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensor (CRNS) station, ten-(10) spatially distributed (soil moisture and temperature capacitance) probes (5TM-ECH20) sites.

Place and Duration of Study: Kenya, MMNR, the oldest natural semi-arid rangeland ecosystem and globally unique for the great wildebeest migration, between May 2017 and April 2019.

Methodology: Soil moisture (SM) variation data was collected using (CRNS) at spatial and point-scale 5TM-ECH2O probes, and gravimetric water content from (10) spatially distributed stations. Both CRNS and 5TM-ECH2O probes were used to monitor near-real time moisture levels at different soil layers ranging between 0-5cm, 5-10cm, 15-20cm, 35-40cm, and 75-80cm. Soil physical and chemical properties were laboratory analyzed. Calibration and validation datasets were obtained from 5TM-ECH2O probe and gravimetric soil samples extracted from respective layers and sites.

Results: The pedological characteristics of the investigated ecosystem soil profile indicate decreased bulk density by 2.1% to 11.12% from upper layers (0-5cm) to deeper layers at (75–80 cm). Across the rangeland, 70% of soil textural classes were sandy clay loam (SCL) with higher clay percent and 30% sandy clay (SC) and soil porosity varied between 30.1% and 51% in the ecosystem. Moreover, volumetric

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 water content (VWC) of spatially distributed 5TM-ECH2O probes ranged between 0.11m3m-3 and 0.32m3m-3 during wet season with mean VWC of 0.16m3m-3, however, the VWC ranged between 0.04 m3m-3 and 0.17m3m-3 during the dry season with a mean volume of 0.11m3m-3 across the rangeland ecosystem.

Conclusion: In this study, SM exhibited an annual periodicity of seasonal variation of spatial and temporal moisture partitioned as moisture gaining, losing, and a moisture stable period. This probably could be a consequence of increased movement of water to deeper layers caused by high precipitation and less evaporative demand caused by lower temperatures. The calibrated CRNS probe provided good estimates of spatial soil moisture variation when calibrated with 5TM-ECH20 and gravimetric sampling in relation to precipitation events and that deeper soil layers showed higher amount of soil moisture than shallow layers. The findings of the study will provide better formulation of the ecosystem vegetation management policies, conservation and planning for sustainable wildlife tourism industry.
Determining the Effectiveness of Different Reconstruction Method and Mandibular Implants for Fracture in the Mandible
Authors: Hassannia Maryam , Ghorbanizadeh Sajad
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Every year, many people suffer from mandibular defects due to various reasons such as trauma or malignant tumors. Various techniques for reconstructing mandibular defects have always been considered by surgeons and maxillofacial specialists to select the best option and achieve the desired results for the patient. In this study, various articles and their techniques for reconstruction of mandibular defects were reviewed and their results were reported.

Materials and Methods: The present study is a systematic review study in which the keywords implants, mandibular, trauma, reconstruction of the desired articles in two databases pubmed and science direct from January 1, 2010 to August 31, 2018 And were selected and then examined.

Results: 33 articles met the inclusion criteria on which the final review was performed. 17 articles were clinical studies, 9 articles were case reports and 7 articles were reviews. In these 33 studies, various techniques were examined, including the use of free vascularized fibular flap, the use of computer software, and the prototyping technique.

Conclusion: Among the existing methods, the use of free vascularized fibular flap has been approved as a widely used and reliable method in various studies, and many researchers believe that this technique is the gold standard for the reconstruction of mandibular defects. The use of computer software was also used as a complementary technique to improve surgical outcomes.
An Eco-friendly RP-HPLC and UV-Method Development and Validation for an Estimation of Tolvaptan in Bulk and Tablet Dosage form Followed by Forced Degradation Studies
Authors: A. Patel Seema , S. Sayyed Nazifa , I. Lajporiya Mobina , U. Manjra Mehfuza , Ahmed Aejaz , Khan G. J.
Published: September 2021

Aims: To develop and validate a new, simple, rapid, precise, and accurate An Eco-friendly RP-HPLC and UV-Method Development and Validation for an estimation of Tolvaptan in Bulk and Tablet dosage form followed by Forced Degradation Studies

Place and Duration of the Study: The present work has been carried out at Ali-Allana College of Pharmacy, Akkalkuwa between November-2020 to April-2021.

Methodology: The UV-Spectroscopic method was developed for the estimation of tolvaptan in bulk and tablet dosage form. The solvent selected for the tolvaptan UV analysis was 4% aq. SLS solution, the solution of 10µg/ml was scanned in UV region from 200-400 nm and the λmax value was determined. The RP-HPLC method was developed on Sunsil C18 150 mm x 4.6mm x 5μ column using acetonitrile: water [45:55] as mobile phase at flow rate 1.0 ml/min and UV detection at 266 nm.

Results: The maximum absorbance was observed at 266 nm. The wavelength 266 nm was selected for further analysis of tolvaptan. The calibration curve was determined using drug concentrations ranging from 20-100 µgm/ml. The system suitability was performed by injecting a standard solution containing 200µg/ml of tolvaptan in six replicates. For two of them, the peak asymmetric were <1.5 and the theoretical plate number was >2000, and the %RSD of tolvaptan was less than 2.

Conclusion: From the above results, it was concluded that the developed UV and RP-HPLC methods are precise and accurate and can be applied for the quantitative estimation of tolvaptan from bulk and tablet dosage forms. The method can be used for routine testing of tolvaptan by the pharmaceutical industry. Validation of the developed method was done as per International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) Q2R1 guidelines.
PROPOSIÇÃO DE UMA METODOLOGIA ESTRUTURADA DE AVALIAÇÃO DO POTENCIAL REGIONAL DE REÚSO DE ÁGUA: 01 – TERMINOLOGIA E CONCEITOS DE BASE
Authors: Santos Ana Silvia Pereira , Lima Maíra Araújo de Mendonça , Silva Junior Luis Carlos Soares da , Avelar Pablo da Silva , Araujo  Bruna Magalhães de , Gonçalves ￼ Ricardo Franci , Vieira José Manuel Pereira
Published: September 2021

Diante do cenário de estresse hídrico já enfrentado em diferentes regiões do Brasil, a prática do reúso de água pode ser uma importante alternativa para aliviar as pressões nos mananciais, garantir água em quantidade e em qualidade para os diversos usos, reduzir conflitos pelo uso da água e contribuir para o desenvolvimento socioeconômico regional. Para que a prática seja institucionalizada e sistematizada no país, é necessário que a cultura da conservação, do uso racional e do reúso de água seja implantada em todos os níveis da sociedade, desde usuários e produtores de água, até técnicos, tomadores de decisão egestores de recursos hídricos e saneamento, além daqueles que tomam ações conjuntas em setores como o agrícola, o industrial, o recreacional, o de energia e outros. Estudos de avaliação estratégica do potencial regional devem ser elaborados com critérios bem definidos de forma a estabelecer um planejamento adequado, com maior possibilidade de sucesso na implantação e operação de futuros empreendimentos.Neste contexto, foi elaborado um conjunto de quatro Notas Técnicas (NT), tendo como principal objetivo a proposição de uma metodologia estruturada de avaliação do potencial regional de reúso de água no Brasil. O presente documento constitui a NT01 que tem como objetivo contextualizar a temática, além de apresentar a estruturação das demais NT e os aspectos mais relevantes para o entendimento geral da prática de reúso de água. A NT02 fornece elementos essenciais para o desenvolvimento de projetos no setor saneamento. A NT03 apresenta o caminho técnico para estudos de avaliação de potencial, considerando aspectos de demanda e oferta de água de reúso. A NT04 questiona os desafios relacionados com o futuro do reúso de água e, em especial, a sua relevância para o Brasil.
Reconstruction of volume averaging effect‐free continuous photon beam profiles from discrete ionization chamber array measurements using a machine learning technique
Authors: Mund Karl , Maloney Luke , Lu Bo , Wu Jian , Li Jonathan , Liu Chihray , Yan Guanghua
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The use of the ionization chamber array ICProfiler (ICP) is limited by its relatively poor detector spatial resolution and the inherent volume averaging effect (VAE). The purpose of this work is to study the feasibility of reconstructing VAE‐free continuous photon beam profiles from ICP measurements with a machine learning technique.

Methods

In‐ and cross‐plane photon beam profiles of a 6 MV beam from an Elekta linear accelerator, ranging from 2 × 2 to 10 × 10 cm2 at 1.5 cm, 5 cm, and 10 cm depth, were measured with an ICP. The discrete measurements were interpolated with a Makima method to obtain continuous beam profiles. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were trained to restore the penumbra of the beam profiles. Plane‐specific (in‐ and cr‐plane) ANNs and a combined ANN were separately trained. The performance of the ANNs was evaluated using the penumbra width difference (PWD, the difference between the penumbra widths of the reconstructed and the reference profile). The plane‐specific and the combined ANNs were compared to study the feasibility of using a single ANN for both in‐ and cross‐plane.

Results

The profiles reconstructed with all the ANNs had excellent agreement with the reference. For in‐plane, the ANNs reduced the PWD from 1.6 ± 0.7 mm at 1.5 cm depth to 0.1 ± 0.1 mm, from 1.8 ± 0.6 mm at 5.0 cm depth to 0.1 ± 0.1 mm, and from 2.4 ± 0.1 mm at 10.0 cm depth to 0.0 ± 0.0 mm; for cross‐plane, the ANNs reduced the PWD from 1.2 ± 0.4 mm at 1.5 cm depth, 1.2 ± 0.3 mm at 5.0 cm depth, and 1.6 ± 0.1 mm at 10.0 cm depth, to 0.1 ± 0.1 mm.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the feasibility of using simple ANNs to reconstruct VAE‐free continuous photon beam profiles from discrete ICP measurements. A combined ANN can restore the penumbra of in‐ and cross‐plane beam profiles of various fields at different depths.
Dosimetry verification of three‐dimensional printed polylactic acid template‐guided precision 125I seed implantation for lung cancer using a desktop three‐dimensional printer
Authors: Han Xiaoyan , Fang Shu , Sheng Rui , Wang Yi , Zhou Jinhua , Wang Jiong
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to verify the effectiveness of polylactic acid (PLA) template puncture route planning by comparing preoperative and postoperative dosimetry using computerized tomography (CT)‐guided implantation of 125I radioactive seeds.

Methods

A total of 28 patients who underwent 125I seed implantation between January 2018 and June 2019 were selected for the statistical study of seed dosimetry. All patients received preoperative treatment planning system (TPS) planning, of which 13 patients in the experimental 3D template group underwent intraoperative puncture and implantation using the PLA template planning route. The other 15 patients in the traditional control group underwent intraoperative puncture and implantation using CT images for guidance. By calculating the dose‐volume histogram, preoperative and postoperative D90 values and postoperative V90 values were compared between the two groups.

Results

The mean D90 values in the template group before and after surgery were 136.06 ± 7.10 and 134.72 ± 7.85 Gy, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference. The preoperative and postoperative mean D90 values in the traditional group were 132.97 ± 8.04 and 126.06 ± 9.19 Gy, respectively, which were statistically significantly different. The mean postoperative V90 values in the template and traditional groups were 93.80 ± 1.34% and 88.42 ± 6.55 %, respectively, showing a statistically significant difference.

Conclusions

The preoperative TPS plan for the experimental group guided by the PLA template was almost the same as that for the final guided particle implantation. The dose parameters in the experimental group were also better than those in the traditional group, making the use of the presented PLA template more efficient for clinical applications.
Experimental Strategy and Mechanistic View to Boost the Photocatalytic Activity of Cs3Bi2Br9 Lead‐Free Perovskite Derivative by g‐C3N4 Composite Engineering
Authors: Romani Lidia , Speltini Andrea , Dibenedetto Carlo Nazareno , Listorti Andrea , Ambrosio Francesco , Mosconi Edoardo , Simbula Angelica , Saba Michele , Profumo Antonella , Quadrelli Paolo , De Angelis Filippo , Malavasi Lorenzo
Published: September 2021

The rational design of heterojunctions based on metal halide perovskites (MHPs) is an effective route to create novel photocatalysts to run relevant solar‐driven reactions. In this work, an experimental and computational study on the synergic coupling between a lead‐free Cs3Bi2Br9 perovskite derivative and g‐C3N4 is presented. A relevant boost of the hydrogen photogeneration by more than one order of magnitude is recorded when going from pure g‐C3N4 to the Cs3Bi2Br9/g‐C3N4 system. Effective catalytic activity is also achieved in the degradation of the organic pollutant with methylene blue as a model molecule. Based upon complementary experimental outputs and advanced computational modeling, a rationale is provided to understand the heterojunction functionality as well as the trend of hydrogen production as a function of perovskite loading. This work adds further solid evidence for the possible application of MHPs in photocatalysis, which is emerging as an extremely appealing and promising field of application of these superior semiconductors.
Lead‐Free Double Perovskite Cs2AgBiBr6: Fundamentals, Applications, and Perspectives
Authors: Lei Hongwei , Hardy David , Gao Feng
Published: September 2021

Cs2AgBiBr6, as a benchmark lead‐free double perovskite, has emerged as a promising alternative to lead‐based perovskites because of its high stability, non‐toxicity, exceptional optoelectronic properties, and multifunctionality. To encourage further research on Cs2AgBiBr6 and its broad applications, in this review, its fundamental properties including the structure‐property relation, synthesis, stability, origin of absorption and photoluminescence, electron‐phonon coupling, role of defects, charge carrier dynamics, and bandgap modulation are comprehensively emphasized. The recent progress on the wide applications including solar cells, light/X‐ray detectors, and ferroelectric/magnetic devices are highlighted. Moreover, the challenges of Cs2AgBiBr6 materials and related applications are discussed and perspectives are provided for guiding the future development of this research area.
Photo‐Polymerization Induced Hierarchical Pattern via Self‐Wrinkling
Authors: Gao Xiaxin , Li Jin , Li Tiantian , Su Zhilong , Ma Xiaodong , Yin Jie , Jiang Xuesong
Published: September 2021

Hierarchical patterns are widely found on the biological skins in nature and can provide unique functions to surfaces such as wettability, optical, and adhesive properties. Herein, a facile and robust strategy to generate the self‐wrinkling pattern on the surface of the photo‐curing coating is proposed, which comprises a crosslinking monomer, photoinitiator, and fluorinated copolymer as additive. The fluorinated copolymer, which contains fluorocarbon chains possessing low surface‐energy, tertiary amine as coinitiator, and anthracene in the side chain, can self‐assemble to the top layer for constructing the gradient photo‐crosslinking system. Upon the irradiation of ultraviolet (UV) light, the mismatch of shrinkage caused by the gradient photo‐crosslinking leads to the formation of wrinkles, the morphology of which can be regulated by monomer proportion, the content of fluorinated copolymer, and the thickness of the film. Taking the spatiotemporal advantages of light, the hierarchical patterns of wrinkle are generated by programmed exposure with photomask, which has potential applications in anti‐counterfeiting and encapsulation of light‐emitting diode (LED) chip for displaying. This strategy provides a rapid and universal alternative method to fabricate a hierarchical pattern of the surface.
Nanoconfinement‐Controlled Synthesis of Highly Active, Multinary Nanoplatelet Catalysts from Lamellar Magic‐Sized Nanocluster Templates
Authors: Baek Woonhyuk , Bootharaju Megalamane S. , Lorenz Severin , Lee Sanghwa , Stolte Sven , Fainblat Rachel , Bacher Gerd , Hyeon Taeghwan
Published: September 2021

Magic‐sized semiconductor nanoclusters (MSCs) possessing intermediate stability are promising precursors for synthesizing low‐dimensional nanostructures that cannot be achieved by direct methods. However, uncontrolled diffusion of MSCs in their colloidal‐state poses challenges in utilizing them as precursors and/or templates for the controlled synthesis of nanomaterials. Herein, a nanoconfined diffusion‐limited strategy to synthesize large CdSe nanoplatelets through the solid‐state transformation of (CdSe)13 MSCs is designed, wherein MSCs serve as both precursors and lamellar bilayer templates. In sharp contrast, in the colloidal‐state, these MSCs are grown to CdSe nanoribbons or nanorods. Furthermore, the nanoconfined route is used not only to transform (CdSe)13, Mn2+:(CdSe)13, and Mn2+:(Cd1−xZnxSe)13 MSCs but also to dope Cu+, producing Cu+:CdSe, Mn2+/Cu+:CdSe, Mn2+/Cu+:Cd1−xZnxSe nanoplatelets, respectively. The resulting multinary nanoplatelets with controlled compositions exhibit unique optical and magneto‐optical properties through characteristic exciton transfer mechanisms. Furthermore, synergistic effects have made quinary Mn2+/Cu+:Cd0.5Zn0.5Se nanoplatelets efficient and reusable catalysts for chemical fixation of CO2 with epoxide (turnover frequency: ≈200/h) under mild conditions. This nanoconfined synthetic strategy paves the way to synthesize diverse shape‐controlled multi‐component nanostructures for optoelectronic and other catalytic applications.
Engineering Polymer Glue towards 90% Zinc Utilization for 1000 Hours to Make High‐Performance Zn‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jiao Yiding , Li Fangyan , Jin Xin , Lei Qingsong , Li Luhe , Wang Lie , Ye Tingting , He Er , Wang Jiacheng , Chen Hao , Lu Jiang , Gao Rui , Li Qianming , Jiang Chang , Li Jianwei , He Guanjie , Liao Meng , Zhang Huigang , Parkin Ivan P. , Peng Huisheng , Zhang Ye
Published: September 2021

Zinc (Zn) metal is considered the promising anode for “post‐lithium” energy storage due to its high volumetric capacity, low redox potential, abundant reserve, and low cost. However, extravagant Zn is required in present Zn batteries, featuring low Zn utilization rate and device‐scale energy/power densities far below theoretical values. The limited reversibility of Zn metal is attributed to the spontaneous parasitic reactions of Zn with aqueous electrolytes, that is, corrosion with water, passive by‐product formation, and dendrite growth. Here, a new ion‐selective polymer glue coated on Zn anode is designed, isolating the Zn anode from the electrolyte by blocking water diffusion while allowing rapid Zn2+ ion migration and facilitating uniform electrodeposition. Hence, a record‐high Zn utilization of 90% is realized for 1000 h at high current densities, in sharp contrast to much poorer cyclability (usually < 200 h) at lower Zn utilization (50–85%) reported to date. When matched with the vanadium‐based cathode, the resulting Zn‐ion battery exhibited an ultrahigh device‐scale energy density of 228 Wh kg−1, comparable to commercial lithium‐ion batteries.
Stretchable Thin Film Mechanical‐Strain‐Gated Switches and Logic Gate Functions Based on a Soft Tunneling Barrier
Authors: Chae Soosang , Choi Won Jin , Fotev Ivan , Bittrich Eva , Uhlmann Petra , Schubert Mathias , Makarov Denys , Wagner Jens , Pashkin Alexej , Fery Andreas
Published: September 2021

Mechanical‐strain‐gated switches are cornerstone components of material‐embedded circuits that perform logic operations without using conventional electronics. This technology requires a single material system to exhibit three distinct functionalities: strain‐invariant conductivity and an increase or decrease of conductivity upon mechanical deformation. Herein, mechanical‐strain‐gated electric switches based on a thin‐film architecture that features an insulator‐to‐conductor transition when mechanically stretched are demonstrated. The conductivity changes by nine orders of magnitude over a wide range of tunable working strains (as high as 130%). The approach relies on a nanometer‐scale sandwiched bilayer Au thin film with an ultrathin poly(dimethylsiloxane) elastomeric barrier layer; applied strain alters the electron tunneling currents through the barrier. Mechanical‐force‐controlled electric logic circuits are achieved by realizing strain‐controlled basic (AND and OR) and universal (NAND and NOR) logic gates in a single system. The proposed material system can be used to fabricate material‐embedded logics of arbitrary complexity for a wide range of applications including soft robotics, wearable/implantable electronics, human–machine interfaces, and Internet of Things.
All‐Optical and Label‐Free Stimulation of Action Potentials in Neurons and Cardiomyocytes by Plasmonic Porous Metamaterials
Authors: Bruno Giulia , Melle Giovanni , Barbaglia Andrea , Iachetta Giuseppina , Melikov Rustamzhon , Perrone Michela , Dipalo Michele , De Angelis Francesco
Published: September 2021

Optical stimulation technologies are gaining great consideration in cardiology, neuroscience studies, and drug discovery pathways by providing control over cell activity with high spatio‐temporal resolution. However, this high precision requires manipulation of biological processes at genetic level concealing its development from broad scale application. Therefore, translating these technologies into tools for medical or pharmacological applications remains a challenge. Here, an all‐optical nongenetic method for the modulation of electrogenic cells is introduced. It is demonstrated that plasmonic metamaterials can be used to elicit action potentials by converting near infrared laser pulses into stimulatory currents. The suggested approach allows for the stimulation of cardiomyocytes and neurons directly on commercial complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor microelectrode arrays coupled with ultrafast pulsed laser, providing both stimulation and network‐level recordings on the same device.
The Archetypal Homoleptic Lanthanide Quadruple‐Decker—Synthesis, Mechanistic Studies, and Quantum Chemical Investigations
Authors: Münzfeld Luca , Hauser Adrian , Hädinger Pauline , Weigend Florian , Roesky Peter W.
Published: September 2021

Reduction of [SmIII(COT1,4‐SiiPr3)(BH4)(thf)] (COT1,4‐SiiPr3=1,4‐(iPr3Si)3C8H6) with KC8 resulted in [SmIII/II/III(COT1,4‐SiiPr3)4], the first example of a homoleptic lanthanide quadruple‐decker. As indicated by an analysis of the bond metrics in the solid‐state, the inner Sm ion is present in the divalent oxidation state, while the outer ones are trivalent. This observation could be confirmed by quantum chemical calculations. Mechanistic studies revealed not only insight into possible formation pathways of [SmIII/II/III(COT1,4‐SiiPr3)4] but also resulted in the transformation to other mixed metal sandwich complexes with unique structural properties. These are the 1D‐polymeric chain structured [KSmIII(COT1,4‐SiiPr3)]n and the hexametallic species [(tol)K(COT1,4‐SiiPr3)SmII(COT1,4‐SiiPr3)K]2 which were initially envisioned as possible building blocks as part of different retrosynthetically guided pathways that we developed.
Metal–organic frameworks based on a benzimidazole flexible tetracarboxylic acid: Selective luminescence sensing Fe3+, magnetic behaviors, DFT calculations, and Hirshfeld surface analyses
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Xiong Dingqi , Fu Pengkun , Yun Meng , Yang Qinglin , Jia Mei‐Mei , Dong Xiuyan
Published: September 2021

Four novel metal–organic frameworks constructed from benzimidazole flexible tetracarboxylic acid ligand, 1‐(3,5‐dicarboxylbenzyl)‐1H‐benzimidazole‐5,6‐dicarboxylic acid (H4L), have been prepared by a solvothermal method in the presence of N‐donor ancillary ligands (1,10‐phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline monohydrate, 4,4′‐bibp = 1,4‐di[pyridine‐4‐yl]benzene), namely, [Co2(L)(H2O)3]n (1), {[Cd2(L)(1,10‐phen)(H2O)]·2H2O}n (2), {[Co4(L)2(4,4′‐bibp)2(H2O)7]·4H2O}n (3), and {[Ni4(L)2(4,4′‐bibp)2(H2O)7]·4H2O}n (4). Complexes 1 and 2 show a 3D supramolecular structure and crystallize in monoclinic space group P21/c. Complexes 3 and 4 are isomorphous and crystallize in monoclinic space group Pn, and the respective metals exhibit a similar coordination environment. The H4L ligand behaved in different coordinated modes in Complexes 1–4, namely, μ6‐η1:η1:η1:η0:η1:η1:η1:η1:η1 in 1, μ6‐η1:η1:η1:η1:η1:η1:η2:η1:η1 in 2, there are two coordination modes (μ5‐η0:η1:η1:η0:η1:η1:η1:η0:η1 and μ5‐η1:η1:η1:η0:η1:η1:η1:η0:η1) in 3 and 4. Furthermore, photoluminescence and magnetic properties have been studied. The results indicate that Complexes 3 and 4 show strong antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic coupling through M–O–C–O–M interactions, respectively. In particular, Complex 2 can sensitively and selectively detect Fe3+ in aqueous systems, and the limit of detection (LOD) values of Fe3+ is ∼0.19 mM.
The anticancer activity of carbazole alkaloids
Authors: Song Feng , Liu Dan , Huo Xiankai , Qiu Di
Published: September 2021

Chemotherapy is the first choice for the majority of cancers, but severe side effects and drug resistance restrict the actual clinical efficacy. Carbazole alkaloids, mainly from the Rutaceae family, possess favorable donor ability, good planarity, rich photophysical properties, and excellent biocompatibility. Carbazole alkaloids could not only intercalate in DNA but could also inhibit telomerase and topoisomerase and regulate protein phosphorylation. Hence, carbazole alkaloids are useful in providing lead hits/candidates for the development of novel anticancer agents. This review summarizes the research progress made regarding the anticancer properties of carbazole alkaloids, covering articles published from January 2010 to June 2021.
Graphene and Carbon Nanotube‐based Electrochemical Sensing Platforms for Dopamine
Authors: Islam Santa , Shaheen Shah Syed , Naher Shamsun , Ali Ehsan Muhammad , Aziz Md. Abdul , Ahammad A. J. Saleh
Published: September 2021

Dopamine (DA) is an important neurotransmitter, which is created and released from the central nervous system. It plays a crucial role in human activities, like cognition, emotions, and response to anything. Maladjustment of DA in human blood serum results in different neural diseases, like Parkinson's and Schizophrenia. Consequently, researchers have started working on DA detection in blood serum, which is undoubtedly a hot research area. Electrochemical sensing techniques are more promising to detect DA in real samples. However, utilizing conventional electrodes for selective determination of DA encounters numerous problems due to the coexistence of other materials, such as uric acid and ascorbic acid, which have an oxidation potential close to DA. To overcome such problems, researchers have put their focus on the modification of bare electrodes. The aim of this review is to present recent advances in modifications of most used bare electrodes with carbonaceous materials, especially graphene, its derivatives, and carbon nanotubes, for electrochemical detection of DA. A brief discussion about the mechanistic phenomena at the electrode interface has also been included in this review.
Social cognitive skills groups increase medial prefrontal cortex activity in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Ibrahim Karim , Soorya Latha V. , Halpern Danielle B. , Gorenstein Michelle , Siper Paige M. , Wang A. Ting
Published: September 2021

Few studies have examined the neural mechanisms of change following social skills interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study examined the neural effects of social cognitive skills groups during functional MRI (fMRI) tasks of irony comprehension and eye gaze processing in school‐aged children with ASD. Verbally fluent children (ages 8–11) were randomized to social cognitive skills groups or facilitated play comparison groups. Behavioral assessments and fMRI scans were obtained at baseline and endpoint (12 weeks). During fMRI, children completed two separate tasks to engage social cognition circuitry: comprehension of potentially ironic scenarios (n = 34) and viewing emotionally expressive faces with direct or averted gaze (n = 24). Whole‐brain analyses were conducted to examine neural changes following treatment. Regression analyses were also conducted to explore the relationship between neural and behavioral changes. When comparing the two groups directly, the social cognitive skills group showed greater increases in activity in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), implicated in theory of mind, relative to the comparison group for both irony comprehension and gaze processing tasks. Increased mPFC activity during the irony task was associated with improvement in social functioning on the Social Responsiveness Scale across both groups. Findings indicate that social cognitive skills interventions may increase activity in regions associated with social cognition and mentalizing abilities.

Lay Summary

Social skills groups are a common intervention for school‐aged children with ASD. However, few studies have examined the neural response to social skills groups in school‐aged children with ASD. Here, we report on a study evaluating neural outcomes from an empirically supported social cognitive skills training curriculum using fMRI. This study seeks to understand the effects of targeting emotion recognition and theory of mind on the brain circuitry involved in social cognition in verbally fluent children ages 8–11. Results indicate increased neural activity in the mPFC, a region considered to be a central hub of the “social brain,” in children randomized to social cognitive skills groups relative to a comparison group that received a high‐quality, child‐directed play approach. In addition, increased activation in the mPFC during an irony comprehension task was associated with gains in social functioning across both groups from pre‐ to post‐treatment. This is the first fMRI study of social skills treatment outcomes following a randomized trial with an active treatment condition in school‐aged children with ASD.
Strategies for valorization of crop residues into biofuels and other value‐added products
Authors: Kamusoko Reckson , Jingura Raphael M. , Parawira Wilson , Chikwambi Zedias
Published: September 2021

Agricultural systems produce vast amounts of crop residues (CR) as by‐products. More than 200 billion tonnes per year of CR are produced worldwide. They are mostly used as animal feed or disposed of by incorporation into soil for fertility purposes and by burning. Traditional CR management practices have environmental and techno‐economic implications. Crop residues are an excellent bioresource, with multiple untapped applications. There is a significant lack of knowledge about commercializing the conversion of CR into value‐added products in a sustainable way. A biorefinery concept is an important option that can transform CR into useful products. This paper reviews the potential state‐of‐the‐art options for valorization of CR into multiple product streams. The paper focuses on 13 products. These are biogas, bioethanol, biobutanol, biohydrogen, biomethanol, pyrolytic products, enzymes, bioactive compounds, animal feed, mushroom, single‐cell protein, organic acids, and biocomposites. The product streams can be divided into three categories: biofuels, animal feed and food, and phytochemicals. Biofuel production is the most promising strategy for the valorization of CR at large‐scale biorefineries. Anaerobic digestion and fermentation are preferred to thermochemical conversions because they are cost effective and have improved conversion efficiency. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
A folliculocentric perspective of dandruff pathogenesis: Could a troublesome condition be caused by changes to a natural secretory mechanism?
Authors: Limbu Susan L. , Purba Talveen S. , Harries Matthew , Wikramanayake Tongyu C. , Miteva Mariya , Bhogal Ranjit K. , O'Neill Catherine A. , Paus Ralf
Published: September 2021

Dandruff is a common scalp condition, which frequently causes psychological distress in those affected. Dandruff is considered to be caused by an interplay of several factors. However, the pathogenesis of dandruff remains under‐investigated, especially with respect to the contribution of the hair follicle. As the hair follicle exhibits unique immune‐modulatory properties, including the creation of an immunoinhibitory, immune‐privileged milieu, we propose a novel hypothesis taking into account the role of the hair follicle. We hypothesize that the changes and imbalance of yeast and bacterial species, along with increasing proinflammatory sebum by‐products, leads to the activation of immune response and inflammation. Hair follicle keratinocytes may then detect these changes in scalp microbiota resulting in the recruitment of leukocytes to the inflammation site. These changes in the scalp skin immune‐microenvironment may impact hair follicle immune privilege status, which opens new avenues into exploring the role of the hair follicle in dandruff pathogenesis. Also see the video abstract here: https://youtu.be/mEZEznCYtNs
Hybrid fusion protein as a dual protease inhibitor for the healing of chronic wounds
Authors: Strauss Graham , Koria Piyush
Published: September 2021

Diseases bring about the need for interventions that pinpoint each specific aspect of the illness. Commonly, remission of a complex disease is accomplished by mixing treatments, medications, and therapeutics together in a fashion where they may negatively interact with each other or never arrive at the diseased site as a systemic heterogeneous mixture. Chronic wounds display intricacy as they are very localized and have their own environment where tissue deconstruction due to high levels of numerous proteases outweighs normal tissue reconstruction. This idea leads to the necessity of a protein that contains low diffusivity rates for localized treatment, strength against high concentrations of proteolytic species that lead to degradation of short chain peptides, while encompassing broad inhibitory effects against multiple proteases. Elastin‐like peptides are an attractive, thermoresponsive, protein‐based drug delivery partner as they contain low diffusivity and serve as a stable architecture for short chain peptide fusion. In this project, a novel elastin‐like peptide‐based protein has been created to target the inhibition of both human neutrophil elastase and matrix metalloprotease‐2. As a biologic, this is unique as it is a protein with specific biological activities against multiple proteases, ultimately displaying the potential to mix and match differing biologically active peptides within one amino acid sequence.
Enhancing the Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation Activity of α‐Fe2O3 Thin Film Photoanode by Employing rGO as Electron Transfer Mediator and NiFe‐LDH as Cocatalyst
Authors: Liu Yu , Li Xianglin , Mo Rong , Xie Peng , Yin Meisong , Li Hongxing
Published: September 2021

The shortcomings of poor charge transfer ability and slow surface water oxidation kinetics in the single component photoanode limit the performances of photocatalytic water splitting. Herein, a α‐Fe2O3/rGO/NiFe‐LDH composite photoanode was designed for enhancing photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation activity. The rGO nanosheets serve as an efficient electron transfer mediator for promoting charge transport and separation. The NiFe‐LDH is well anchored on rGO nanosheets and provides additional active sites for accelerating water oxidation reaction kinetics. By the virtue of synergistic effect between rGO and NiFe‐LDH, the composite photoanode achieves a pronounced photocurrent density of 1.46 mA/cm2 at 1.23 VRHE (V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode), which is 2.86 times of α‐Fe2O3. Moreover, the onset potential exhibits a significant cathodic shift of 230 mV. This work provides a valuable strategy for the design of photoanode with light absorber, rGO electron transfer mediator and other cocatalysts to achieve efficient and stable PEC water splitting.
Post‐Treatment of Acid Mine Drainage Using Laboratory‐Extracted Common Mushroom Chitosan
Authors: Turingan Casey Oliver A. , Lintag Nazario Emil S. , Ngan Charles Ivan L. , Soriano Elijah Jeremie D. , Orbecido Aileen H.
Published: September 2021

A post‐treatment approach using common mushroom (Agaricus bisporus)‐derived chitosan was done to treat and purify a synthetic pretreated acid mine drainage (AMD) solution. Commercially available chitosan and laboratory‐prepared chitosan were used as coagulants for post‐treatment of AMD. Both chitosans were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDX). The treatment underwent a batch testing with parameters of mixing speed, mixing time, and chitosan loading. The removal of heavy metals focused on copper, iron, and nickel. The optimum parameters of the commercially available chitosan were then employed for the performance of the laboratory‐prepared chitosan to evaluate its capability as a post‐treatment agent for AMD.
Value of acoustic cardiography in the clinical diagnosis of coronary heart disease
Authors: Zhang Fu Wei , Zhang Yi Xue , Si Liang Yi , Chen Mo Shui , Wang Wei Wei , Liang Hai Rong
Published: September 2021

Background

To investigate the clinical value of acoustic cardiography in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) and post‐percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) early asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction.

Methods

Inpatients in the department of cardiology were included in the research (n = 315); including 180 patients with angina pectoris and 135 patients with acute anterior wall myocardial infarction after emergency PCI did not present with signs and symptoms of heart failure. Color Doppler echocardiography, brain natriuretic peptide, acoustic cardiography examination were performed. The patients were divided into four groups: non‐CAD group (n = 60), CAD group (n = 120), MIREF group (EF% < 50%, n = 75), and MINEF group (EF% ≥ 50%, n = 60).

Results

Acoustic cardiography parameters EMATc, systolic dysfunction index, S3 strength and S4 strength in the MIREF group were higher than those in MINEF group (p < .05), and the MINEF group was higher than CAD group (p < .05). S3 strength (area under the curve [AUC] 0.67, 95% CI 0.585–0.755, p < .001) and S4 strength (AUC 0.617, 95% CI 0.536–0.698, p = .011) are useful in the diagnosis of CAD. S3 strength (AUC 0.942, 95% CI 0.807–0.978, p < .001) was superior to other indicators in the diagnosis of early left ventricular systolic dysfunction after myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

S4 combined with STT standard change can improve the diagnosis of CAD. Acoustic cardiography can be used as a non‐invasive, rapid, effective, and simple method for the diagnosis of asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction in the early stage after myocardial infarction.
The applications of eHealth technologies in the management of asthma and allergic diseases
Authors: Alvarez‐Perea Alberto , Dimov Ves , Popescu Florin‐Dan , Zubeldia José Manuel
Published: September 2021

Portable devices, such as smartphones and mobile Internet access have become ubiquitous in the last decades. The term ‘eHealth’ stands for electronic health. The tools included in the eHealth concept utilize phones, computers and the Internet and related applications to improve the health care industry. Implementation of eHealth technologies has been documented for the management of different chronic diseases, including asthma and allergic conditions. Clinicians and patients have gained opportunity to communicate in new ways, which could be used cost‐effectively to improve disease control and quality of life of those affected. Additionally, these innovations bring new opportunities to academic researchers. For example, eHealth has allowed researchers to compile data points that were previously unavailable or difficult to access, and analyse them using novel tools, collectively described as ‘big data’. The role of eHealth become more important since early 2020, due to the physical distancing rules and the restrictions on mobility that have been applied worldwide as a response to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. In this review, we summarize the most recent developments in various eHealth platforms and their relevance to the speciality of allergy and immunology, from the point of view of three major stakeholders: clinicians, patients and researchers.
A novel PVT‐variation‐tolerant Schmitt‐trigger‐based 12T SRAM cell with improved write ability and high ION/IOFF ratio in sub‐threshold region
Authors: Gupta Monica , Gupta Kirti , Pandey Neeta
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a process voltage temperature (PVT)‐variation‐tolerant Schmitt‐trigger‐based 12T SRAM cell at 32 nm. The cell uses a modified Schmitt‐trigger action in all operating modes for performance improvement, a characteristic that is not exhibited by existing SRAM cells. The action improves the stability of stored data in read and hold modes and assists the write process to enable a faster and low‐voltage write operation. Additionally, the cell uses negative bitline technique and fully‐gated grounded scheme for achieving further improvement in write ability and ION/IOFF ratio. The proposed cell shows 34.9% reduced deviation in switching threshold voltage in comparison to conventional structure. Further, improvement of up to 211% in write ability and 169% in ION/IOFF ratio is obtained over existing SRAM cells operating in sub‐threshold region. The cell takes up to 86% and 99% lesser read and write access time, respectively. The Monte‐Carlo simulations show the robust performance of proposed cell. The cell has reduced write, read, and hold failure probabilities resulting in overall Vmin of 425 mV, which is the least among the cells considered for comparison, thus making it an amenable design suitable for sub‐threshold operation under PVT‐variations.
Expression of CD49f defines subsets of human regulatory T cells with divergent transcriptional landscape and function that correlate with ulcerative colitis disease activity
Authors: Weerakoon Harshi , Straube Jasmin , Lineburg Katie , Cooper Leanne , Lane Steven , Smith Corey , Alabbas Saleh , Begun Jakob , Miles John J , Hill Michelle M , Lepletier Ailin
Published: September 2021

Objective

Adoptive regulatory T cell (Treg) therapy is being trialled for the treatment of different autoimmune disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). In‐depth understanding of the biological variability of Treg in the human blood may be required to improve IBD immune monitoring and treatment strategies.

Methods

Through a combination of quantitative proteomic, multiparametric flow cytometry, RNA‐sequencing data analysis and functional assays on Treg enriched from the blood of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients and healthy controls, we investigated the association between CD49f expression, Treg phenotype and function, and UC disease activity.

Results

High‐dimensional analysis and filtering defined two distinct subsets of human Treg based on the presence or absence of CD49f with divergent transcriptional landscape and functional activities. CD49f negative (CD49f−) Treg are enriched for functional Treg markers and present significantly increased suppressive capacity. In contrast, CD49fhigh Treg display a pro‐inflammatory Th17‐like phenotype and accumulate in the blood of patients with UC. Dysregulation on CD49f Treg subsets in patients with UC correlate with disease activity.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings uncover the importance of CD49f expression on Treg in physiological immunity and in pathological autoimmunity.