bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Allergic and Non-allergic Asthma in Kumaun Region of Uttarakhand, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kumari Poonam , Nautiyal Ram Gopal , Thakar HK
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Asthma is a heterogenic disease, commonly divided into allergic and nonallergic asthma. It affects people of all age group and is associated with impaired lung function. Previously, it was thought that asthma is a disease of developed countries but at present, world scenario has changed and its prevalence in developing countries is rapidly increasing. Asthma shows large geographical variations in terms of prevalence, severity and mortality. Aim: To establish the prevalence of allergic and nonallergic asthma in adults of Kumaun region of Uttarakhand (India) and to evaluate whether the peripheral blood cell count is associated with the severity of lung impairment in both the subtypes (allergic and nonallergic) of asthma. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out jointly in Department of Physiology and Department of Respiratory Medicine, Government Medical College, Haldwani, Uttarakhand (India), during the period from October 2015 to January 2017. A total of 125 patients of both sexes age above 18 years, who attended the OPD of Respiratory Medicine and diagnosed asthma by the physician were enrolled in the study. The patients associated with tuberculosis, worm infestations, other allergic diseases and systemic diseases were excluded. History of Allergic Rhino-Conjunctivitis (ARC) was used for allergic sensitisation and to define allergic asthma. Classification of severity of airflow limitation was done according to Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines. Absolute Leukocyte Counts was determined by using the formula: Absolute leukocyte count=Differential leukocyte count/100×Total leukocyte count. One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey HSD post-hoc analysis and Chi-square was done. Level of statistical significance was set at p-value <0.05. Results: The prevalence of allergic asthma was more in 79 patients (63.2%), in comparison to nonallergic asthma in 46 (36.8%) and it (allergic asthma) was more common in males than females (54:25). Mean age of allergic and nonallergic group asthma patients were 51.00±14.31 and 56.11±13.14 years, respectively. In allergic asthma patients, blood eosinophil count increased significantly (p=0.001) the severity of lung impairment increased and no significant changes were observed in other blood cell counts while in nonallergic asthma over-all neutrophil count was significantly high (p=0.044) with increase in severity. Nonallergic asthma also showed increasing trend of eosinophil count as the severity of airway obstruction increased but there were no significant changes in other counts. Conclusion: The prevalence of allergic asthma is high in comparison to nonallergic asthma among adults of Kumaun region of Uttarakhand, India and it is more prevalent among males in both the groups. Peripheral blood leukocyte count might be used as biological marker to differentiate allergic asthma from nonallergic asthma.
Stabilizing Ag Nanoparticles Using Anatase TiO2 and Cu on Al Surface
Authors: Kaneko Masayoshi
Published: November 2020

Chemical adsorption of anatase TiO2, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), and Cu particles (Cu Ps) on aluminum (Al) surface yielded an active surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate. TiO2 is known to reduce both silver (Ag) and copper (Cu). In an oxidizing environment, Ag NPs remain unoxidized since Cu has a more negative redox potential than Ag. Ag is therefore protected by Cu from getting oxidized. Although Ag NPs exhibit better SERS activity than Au NPs, Ag is relatively easier to oxidize, limiting the development of Ag-based nanomaterials. Therefore, despite the poor SERS activity of Au nanoparticles than that of Ag nanoparticles, Au nanoparticles have been widely used. Herein, the stabilization of Ag nanoparticles by incorporating a reductive process using anatase TiO2 is reported. The fabricated substrates bearing anatase, Ag NPs, and Cu Ps were stable, as seen by Raman spectra, and remained unchanged for more than 2 months.
Changes in Some Biochemical Parameters and Body Weights of Healthy Albino Rats Following Palm-wine Administration
Authors: Haruna G. S. , Nwaikuku O. B. , James B. A. , Musa N. , Valentine R.
Published: November 2020

Aims: To evaluate the effect of palm-wine administration on liver function, antioxidant parameters and body weights in albino rats.

Study Design: Randomized block design.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria between June and August, 2019.

Methodology: Twenty adult male albino rats were divided in to five groups of four rats each, group 1 was the control. The experimental groups were administered fresh and prolonged-fermented palm-wine thus; Group 2: 15ml/ of fresh palm wine, Group 3; 15ml/ kg of prolonged fermented palm wine, Group 4; 30ml/ kg of fresh palm wine, Group 5; 30 ml/ kg of prolonged fermented palm wine, for 28 days.

Results: AST activity decreased significantly (P<0.05) in groups 3 (9.615±0.225), 4 (9.860±0.162) and 5 (9.390±0.624) when compared to the control (10.505±0.121). ALT activity was observed to decrease significantly (P<0.05) in group 5 (7.415±0.548) when compared to control. ALP decreased significantly (P<0.05) in group 3 (7.395±0.710) when compared to control (8.250±0.577). Total Bilirubin, was significantly (P<0.05) lower in groups 3 (0.120±0.041) and 5 (0.170±0.012) compared to control (0.650±0.012). MDA decreased significantly (P< 0.05) in groups 2, 3 and 5 compared to control. SOD decreased significantly (P<0.05) in group 2 (2.735±0.110) compared to control (2.990±0.012). Groups 4 (2.700±0.046) and 5 (2.710±0.346) showed significant (P< 0.05) decrease in GPX when compared to control. GSH was significantly (P< 0.05) higher in groups 4 (5.950±0.058) and 5 (5.925±0.064) compared to control (3.110±0.035). By the third week, the mean body weights of the rats significantly (P<0.05) decreased in all the groups compared to week 2.

Conclusion: Palm-wine did not exert remarkable toxic effect on the liver biomarkers and may not have induced oxidative stress but reduced body weights of the rats in the third week of administration.
Social Media Use in Libraries and Information Services in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions
Authors: Danbaki C. A. , Mohammed G. S. , Gado D. S. M. , Ikegwuiro P. U.
Published: November 2020

The study was carried out to review the use of social media in Nigeria libraries and information services. The review dealt extensively with the dynamics social media brought into library services in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The technological advancement of the 21st century brought by advent of social media has great impacts on library and information services in Nigeria just like any other place across the globe. There is need for the professionals in library science or services to change their service delivery to end users along the line of social media usage with emergence of social sites such as Facebook, Myspace, Flickr, YouTube, Library Thing, Ning in which information can be easily sourced from by users Libraries in Nigeria are therefore facing challenges regarding the ability to provide proactive and more value added services to meet the ever changing needs of the end users. The reviewed article therefore made an attempt to examine the present scenario in library services delivery in Nigeria tertiary institution with these new and emerging social media technologies as well as looking at challenges facing Nigerian tertiary institution libraries in the use of these social media and to identify possible solutions to these challenges. The study concluded that to some extent social media utilization  has been introduced by librarians in tertiary institutions libraries in Nigeria and that usage of social media by librarians in promoting library and information resources and services cannot be overemphasized. The study also discovered that lack or inadequate finance, poor power supply, lack of training of library staff on social media usage and limited bandwidth in the institution as the major challenges facing the usage of social media in Nigerian tertiary institution libraries. The study therefore, recommends that adequate finance should be promptly provided by the parent institutions to the libraries to enhances the use of social media to promote library and information resources and services in Nigerian tertiary institution libraries.
Existence of Nonoscillation Solutions of Higher-Order Nonlinear Neutral Differential Equations
Authors: Ping Zhao Yu- , Hua Fu
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we consider the following higher-order nonlinear neutral differential equations: dn dtn [x(t) + cx(t - τ)] + (-1)n+1[P(t)f1 (x(t - σ)) - Q(t)f2 (x(t - δ))] = 0; t ≥ t0 where τ; σ; δ ∈ R+, c ∈ R; c ̸= ±1, and P(t); Q(t) ∈ C([t0; ∞); R+), fi(u) ∈ C(R; R), ufi(u) > 0. we obtain the results which are some sufficient conditions for existence of nonoscillation solutions, special case of the equation has also been studied.
Unified Ontology Implementation of Cloud Computing for Distributed Systems
Authors: Ageed Zainab Salih , Ibrahim Rowaida Khalil , Sadeeq Mohammed A. M.
Published: November 2020

The ability to provide massive data storage, applications, platforms plus many other services leads to make the number of clouds services providers been increased. Providing different types of services and resources by various providers implies to get a high level of complexity. This complexity leads to face many challenges related to security, reliability, discovery, service selection, and interoperability. In this review, we focus on the use of many technologies and methods for utilizing the semantic web and ontology in cloud computing and distributed system as a solution for these challenges. Cloud computing does not have an own search engine to satisfy the needs of the providers of the cloud service. Using ontology enhances the cloud computing self-motivated via an intelligent framework of SaaS and consolidating the security by providing resources access control. The use RDF and OWL semantic technologies in the modeling of a multi-agent system are very effective in increases coordination the interoperability. One of the most efficient proposed frameworks is building cloud computing marketplace that collects the consumer's requirements of cloud services provider and managing these needs and resources to provide quick and reliable services.
Identification of Economically Viable Cropping Systems for Vertisols of Northern Telangana Zone
Authors: Shahana Firdoz , Goverdhan M. , Sridevi S. , Joseph B.
Published: November 2020

A field experiment was conducted during 2016-17 at AICRP on Integrated Farming Systems, Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station, Rudrur to diversify existing rice-rice cropping system with less water requiring crops under irrigated dry conditions for vertisols of Northern Telangana Zone. The experiment was laid out with twelve cropping systems as treatments in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The twelve combinations of cropping systems tested during kharif and rabi seasons were rice – rice (check), maize + soybean (2:4) – tomato, maize + soybean (2:4) - rice, maize - sunflower + chickpea (2:4), maize - chickpea, Bt cotton + soybean (1:2) on broadbed – sesame + groundnut (2:4), Bt cotton - sesame + blackgram (2:4), soybean – wheat, soybean – sunflower + chickpea (2:4), turmeric – sesame, turmeric + soybean (1:2) on flat bed – bajra and turmeric + soybean (1:2) on broadbed – sesame + blackgram (2:4).

On system basis, significantly higher productivity in terms of rice equivalent yield (REY) of 23830 kg ha-1 was recorded with turmeric+soybean (1:2) BBF– sesame+blackgram (2:4) turmeric – sesame cropping sequence. However it was on par with turmeric – sesame and turmeric + soybean (1:2) on flat bed – bajra crop sequence with productivity of 23332 kg ha-1 and 21389 kg ha-1 respectively. Lower productivity was recorded with rice-rice cropping system (10725 kg ha-1). Significantly higher system net returns were recorded with Bt. cotton – sesame + black gram (2:4) on BBF (Rs222838 ha-1) closely followed by Bt Cotton + Soybean (1:2) (BBF) - Sesamum + Groundnut (2:4) (Rs221160 ha-1) and Maize+soybean (2:4)–tomato (Rs212909 ha-1). Lower system net returns were recorded in conventional rice-rice system (Rs88179 ha-1). Bt. cotton – sesame + black gram (2:4) and Bt Cotton + Soybean (1:2) (BBF)- Sesamum + Groundnut ((2:4) and Maize+soybean (2:4)–tomato were economically superior with REE of 152.71%, 150.81% and 141.45%. Rice- Rice cropping adopted by majority of farmers is less productive and economically inferior indicating wider scope of diversifying existing rice- rice cropping system with high productive, economically viable cropping systems in vertisols of Northern Telangana Zone.
Occupational Health and Safety Management in Selected Stone Quarries in Akamkpa, Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Ekong Akaninyene Edet , Ezeokoro Chikere , Nwaichi Eucharia Oluchi , Obele Realman Evans
Published: November 2020

This research aims to study the management of and implementation of occupational health and safety issues associated with stone quarry work in selected quarries in Akamkpa, Cross River State Nigeria. The research objectives include to determine the types of quarrying activities carried out; to assess the occupational health and safety hazards associated with stone-quarry work; to evaluate the awareness of Quarry workers on potential health and safety hazards associated with their work; establish the level of compliance to the use of Personal Protective Equipment by the workers, and to verify the type of health care provision available to the workers. With a target population of four hundred and thirty-five (435) staff of twelve (12) quarries, A sample of two hundred and five (205) respondents was drawn from the target population through simple random sampling procedure. Questionnaires were the major instrument used for data collection and designed in a 4-point modified Likert scale based on the objectives of the study and validated to be in conformance with ISO 45001:2018 checklist.  Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings were that 61.7% of respondents are aware that quarry work is highly hazardous, 84.6% do not make use of Personal Protective Equipment. 93.5% inhale particulate materials, 60% have trouble in breathing, 63% experience back and waist pain, 67.2% experience catarrh and 66.7% experience cough at work. 91.5% of workers responded that there were no emergency provisions at site while 96.5% respondents do not have any health insurance, a large percent (85.1%) self-medicates. The totality of evidence from this research supports the conclusions that stone-quarry workers are highly exposed to health and safety hazards, they have no PPE or access to medical care. It is recommended that the Federal and State Government should establish laws and establish an agency to regulate, enforce and monitor compliance to health and safety in Quarries.
The Effects of Garlic Extract on the Proximate Composition and Microbial Load of Hot and Cold-Smoked Clupea harangus (Atlantic Herring Fish)
Authors: Fashagba Sarah Tosin , Akinbode Badiu Akinola , Babalola Sherifdeen Olamilekan
Published: November 2020

The study was carried out to determine the effect of garlic extract on the proximate composition and microbial activity of cold and hot smoked Clupea harangus (Atlantic herring fish). In the study, fresh atlantic herring was thawed, eviscerated, weighed, washed properly and folded. Garlic extract was prepared at 100 ml, 75 ml, 50 ml and control with no garlic extract, each treatments were prepared in duplicates and in three batches. The folded atlantic herring was dipped into the garlic extract at the different concentration, the first batch of treatments was oven dried for 40°C for 6 hours (cold smoked), the second batch was oven dried for 65°C for 12 hours (cold smoked) and the third batch was oven dried for 75°C for 18 hours (hot smoked). After oven drying, it was allowed to cool for 20 minutes, samples for microbial analysis was immediately taken in a foil paper and stored in the fridge for a month while the remaining sample was immediately used for proximate analysis. At all hours of drying period, the moisture content decreases and protein content increases with increasing concentration of garlic extract, the lipid content was highest at 75 ml garlic extract and the ash content was highest at 50 ml garlic extract. Total bacteria count decreases with increasing concentration of garlic, increasing temperature and increasing hour of drying. No fungi growth was recorded at all hours of drying period.
C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio Versus Coronary Artery Ectasia as Predictors of No-reflow After Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Patients Presenting with ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Shousha Mohamed , Elbarbary Yasser , Khalfallah Mohamed , Eldin Samia Sharaf
Published: November 2020

Aims: to assess and compare the significance of C-reactive protein Albumin ratio (CAR) versus coronary artery ectasia (CAE) as predictors of no-reflow phenomenon.

Methods: This study was conducted on 90 ST segment elevation myocardial infarction patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) within 24 hours of presentation at cardiovascular medicine department Tanta university hospitals in Gharbia Governorate, Egypt. This is a prospective study and data collection was done within 12 months started from June 2018. Patients were divided into two groups according to the post primary PCI thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow score. Group I (Case group), patients with no-reflow phenomenon TIMI 0-1 flow post primary PCI. Group II (Control group) with TIMI flow ≥ 2 after primary PCI. They                   were subjected to full clinical examination, laboratory investigation including CRP and serum albumin, 12 leads surface ECG, echocardiography and primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Results: There was significant statistical difference between both groups as regard age <) 60 years, 96.7% vs 20%, P < 0.001), gender (male, 93.3% vs 63.3%, P = 0.002), ischemia time ) < 6 hours, 100% vs 33.3%, P > 0.001), CRP level (64 ± 32.6 mg/L vs 26.27 ± 21.5 mg/L, P > 0.001), serum albumin (3.22 ± 0.23 g/dL vs 3.55 ± 0.20 g/dL, P > 0.001), CRP albumin ratio (CAR) (0.0204 ± 0.011 vs 0.0076 ± 0.0064, P > 0.001), coronary artery ectasia (30% vs 6.7%, P = 0.003), thrombus grade score )≥ 4, 100% vs 10%, P > 0.001). However, there was no significant  statistical difference between both groups as regard smoking, dyslipidemia and revascularization method.

Conclusion: Compared to CAE, CAR is more significant and more reliable to predict no reflow in acute STEMI patients managed by primary PCI within 24 hours of presentation.
Development and Performance Evaluation of Irish Potato Peeling Machine
Authors: Afolabi Ademola Olagoke , Attanda Muhammad Lawal
Published: November 2020

An Irish potato peeling machine was developed for use at small-scale/household level. Machine performance evaluation was carried out using three locally grown Irish potato varieties namely; Nicola, Bartita and Bawondoya respectively. A 22x3 factorial experiment in completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications was used for evaluation where tuber feed rate, shaft speed and variety were the independent variables and peeling efficiency, tuber flesh loss and machine output capacity were the performance indicators. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) results showed the effects of variety on peeling efficiency and feed rate on output capacity as highly significant (P=.01). Also, the interaction of speed and variety on peeling efficiency and the effect of variety on output capacity was significant (P=.05). The interaction of variety and speed at 480 rpm achieved a maximum mean peeling efficiency of 55.6% for Bawondoya. Similarly, at slightly higher speed of 510 rpm, the maximum mean peeling efficiency of 64.6% was achieved for Bartita. Flesh loss value of 0.84% was the least obtained and this was for Bartita while the highest flesh loss of 1.43% was observed for Nicola. At feed rates of 50 g/sec and 60 g/sec; the minimum and maximum output capacities of 31.3 kg/h and 59.2 kg/h were obtained respectively.
Spatial Analysis of the Mode of Management and Conflicts of Use of Water Resources in the Watershed of the Lobo River in Nibehibe (Central-Western Côte d'Ivoire)
Authors: Fabrice Toure Fanraban , Brice Konan-Waidhet Arthur , Ali Diarra , Berthe Yao Affoue , Jacques Koua Tano Jean , Mahamadou Koita
Published: November 2020

Water is an indispensable resource for all activities developed by man. Water resources are indispensable for the survival of the populations of the Lobo watershed in Nibéhibé. They offer many multidimensional services. Around these important resources, social actors have different ways of perceiving them. This is why their management comes up against a difference in logic and action on the part of the different stakeholders. Thus, it must be noted that there is a crystallization of social relations between the different groups of actors involved and this is based on conflicts of use and the intensity of water scarcity. The objective of this study is to show the relationship between management mode and conflicts of use of water resources in the Lobo watershed in Nibéhibé. To achieve this objective, the methodology was based on the triptych documentary research, interview and questionnaire survey. The documentary research consisted in defining the contours of the subject in order to better understand it. Then, the interviews carried out with the actors of the water sector in the Lobo basin made it possible to collect information on the perception and the mode of management of the water resources in the basin. Finally, using the simple random selection method without discount and the use of a statistical equation, a sample of 384 households spread over the entire catchment area served as the basis for our surveys. Population surveys, combined with spatially referenced data under a GIS, have made it possible to map the spatial distribution of water supply sites on the one hand, and the spatial distribution of water-related conflict types on the other. The results show that the population has a wide variety of water supply sources. Moreover, the current management mode is either liberal (or private) or participatory (or community-based) depending on the type of water resource (surface or groundwater) and on the perception of the actors with regard to water.  Thus, the different uses generate conflicts that are perceived between cultural actors (indigenous) and economic actors such as SODECI (Water Distribution Company in Côte d'Ivoire) and fishermen (non-indigenous). There are also conflicts between women, which can be summarized as disputes over water points and distrust between different communities. An integrated management of water resources in this watershed would therefore be beneficial to all stakeholders.
Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Extends Lifespan and Ameliorate HAART Drug-Induced Locomotor, Reproductive, and Antioxidant Deficits in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Iorjiim Walter Mdekera , Omale Simeon , Bagu Great David , Gyang Steven Samuel , Alemika Emmanuel Taiwo
Published: November 2020

Aim: To evaluate the longevity and ameliorative activities of Moringa oleifera leaf (MOL) extract against some HAART drug-induced toxicities in Drosophila melanogaster.

Materials and Methods: The research was conducted at the Drosophila laboratory, Africa Centre of Excellence in phytomedicine Research and Development (ACEPRD), University of Jos-Nigeria, between August 2019 - March 2020.  D. melanogaster (1-3 day) were first exposed for life to different concentrations of MOL (50 – 500 mg) or 25 mM Ascorbic acid or 1000 µL distilled water to determine longevity. Secondly, flies were fed on 46.56 mg of HAART drugs (Efavirenz-based or Dolutegravir-based) alone or supplemented with MOL 250 mg or 500 mg per 10 g fly food in five replicates for seven days. Afterward, longevity, fecundity, and negative geotaxis were evaluated. Also, activities of Superoxide dismutase, Catalase, as well as Malondialdehyde content as biomarkers of oxidative stress were evaluated using whole fly homogenate. Statistical significance was taken at P<0.05 or (P<0.006) (Bonferroni adjusted P-value for multiple curve comparisons. 

Results: The MOL extract significantly (P<0.001) increased fly longevity compared to control groups. Similarly, supplementation with 500 mg MOL extracts significantly (P<0.05) ameliorate HAART drug-induced deficits in climbing ability, fecundity, SOD, and CAT activities as well as MDA content compared to groups exposed to HAART drugs alone respectively.

Conclusion: The results suggest that   M. oleifera leaf extract extends lifespan and ameliorate HAART drug-induced toxicities via its antioxidant activities. This was supported by improved locomotor and reproductive decline, and restoration of the deficits in the biomarkers of oxidative stress (SOD, CAT, and MDA) in D. melanogaster.
Transition of federal government: The path forward for SAMHSA
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2020

Last week, as President‐elect Biden worked with his transition team, we asked experts around the country to comment on the path forward for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). President Trump, who so far has not conceded defeat and is mounting legal challenges to the results, and his administration remain in control until Jan. 20, 2021, inauguration day. Elinore McCance‐Katz, M.D., Ph.D., is still assistant secretary for mental health and substance abuse of the Department of Health and Human Services and head of SAMHSA.
Reach of remedies order in UBH case could capture other payers' notice
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2020

The latest order in a legal case that found managed behavioral health care company United Behavioral Health (UBH) used flawed internal guidelines to deny coverage for substance use treatment could reverberate across the insurance industry, as the order gives broad authority to an outside party to oversee corrective action on UBH's part.
Hybrid Spintronic Materials from Conducting Polymers with Molecular Quantum Bits
Authors: Kern Michal , Tesi Lorenzo , Neusser David , Rußegger Nadine , Winkler Mario , Allgaier Alexander , Gross Yannic M. , Bechler Stefan , Funk Hannes S. , Chang Li‐Te , Schulze Jörg , Ludwigs Sabine , van Slageren Joris
Published: November 2020

Hybrid materials consisting of organic semiconductors and molecular quantum bits promise to provide a novel platform for quantum spintronic applications. However, investigations of such materials, elucidating both the electrical and quantum dynamical properties of the same material have never been reported. Here the preparation of hybrid materials consisting of conducting polymers and molecular quantum bits is reported. Organic field‐effect transistor measurements demonstrate that the favorable electrical properties are preserved in the presence of the qubits. Chemical doping introduces charge carriers into the material, and variable‐temperature charge transport measurements reveal the existence of mobile charge carriers at temperatures as low as 15 K. Importantly, quantum coherence of the qubit is shown to be preserved up to temperatures of at least 30 K, that is, in the presence of mobile charge carriers. These results pave the way for employing such hybrid materials in novel molecular quantum spintronic architectures.
Black Phosphorus@Laser‐Engraved Graphene Heterostructure‐Based Temperature–Strain Hybridized Sensor for Electronic‐Skin Applications
Authors: Chhetry Ashok , Sharma Sudeep , Barman Sharat Chandra , Yoon Hyosang , Ko Seokgyu , Park Chani , Yoon Sanghyuk , Kim Hyunsik , Park Jae Yeong
Published: November 2020

Smart electronic skin (e‐skin) requires the easy incorporation of multifunctional sensors capable of mimicking skin‐like perception in response to external stimuli. However, efficient and reliable measurement of multiple parameters in a single functional device is limited by the sensor layout and choice of functional materials. The outstanding electrical properties of black phosphorus and laser‐engraved graphene (BP@LEG) demonstrates a new paradigm for a highly sensitive dual‐modal temperature and strain sensor platform to modulate e‐skin sensing functionality. Moreover, the unique hybridized sensor design enables efficient and accurate determination of each parameter without interfering with each other. The cationic polymer passivated BP@LEG composite material on polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene‐ran‐butylene)‐block‐polystyrene (SEBS) substrate outperforms as a positive temperature coefficient material, exhibiting a high thermal index of 8106 K (25–50 °C) with high strain sensitivity (i.e., gauge factor, GF) of up to 2765 (>19.2%), ultralow strain resolution of 0.023%, and longer durability (>18 400 cycles), satisfying the e‐skin requirements. Looking forward, this technique provides unique opportunities for broader applications, such as e‐skin, robotic appendages, and health monitoring technologies.
Hierarchical Surface Patterns via Global Wrinkling on Curved Substrate for Fluid Drag Control
Authors: Lin Gaojian , Li Jiaqi , Xu Zhao , Ge Dengteng , Sun Weifu , Chen Pengwan
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the results of an investigation on the global wrinkling of stiff coatings resting on curved compliant substrates are presented. It is found that the overall stiffness of the corrugated coatings can dominate the deformation mode and induce the global wrinkling when the coating thickness exceeds certain critical value. It is demonstrated that hierarchical wrinkling patterns with small wrinkles superposing on large wrinkles, either parallel or perpendicularly, can be generated via the global wrinkling processes. Through a combination of theoretical model, experimental studies, and numerical simulations, the formation mechanism and controlling parameters of the hierarchical wrinkling patterns are systematically investigated. The quantitative expression of the critical loading strain, critical wavelength, and critical coating thickness of the global wrinkling as a function of the initial substrate curvatures and loading conditions are revealed. Inspired by the resemblance between the hierarchical surface patterns and the surface riblets on sharks and dolphins, the potential application of utilizing the hierarchical wrinkling patterns to reduce fluid drag through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies is further investigated. Reduced drag resistance is observed on the hierarchical wrinkled surface with small wrinkles and large wrinkles perpendicular to each other.
Stabilization of Metal Single Atoms on Carbon and TiO2 Supports for CO2 Hydrogenation: The Importance of Regulating Charge Transfer
Authors: Rivera‐Cárcamo Camila , Scarfiello Canio , García Ana B. , Tison Yann , Martinez Hervé , Baaziz Walid , Ersen Ovidiu , Le Berre Carole , Serp Philippe
Published: November 2020

Supported single atoms constitute excellent models for understanding heterogenous catalysis and have achieved breakthroughs during the past years. How to prevent the aggregation and modulate activity of these species via metal‐support interaction should be considered for practical applications. This work presents simple methods involving the creation of carbon‐ (on carbon nanotube (CNT)) or oxygen‐vacancies (on TiO2) to stabilize nickel and ruthenium single atoms. The defective supports and the resulting catalysts are characterized by a large variety of techniques. These analyses show that this strategy is efficient for the preparation of ultra‐dispersed catalysts. Comparison of the catalytic performances of these catalysts for the CO2 hydrogenation reaction is also reported. Catalysts supported on TiO2 are more active and sometimes more stable than those deposited on CNT. Nickel catalysts are very selective for the production of CO, and ruthenium catalysts are more selective for the production of methane. Most importantly, it is shown that, in the case of Ru, a direct correlation exists between the electronic density on the metal and the selectivity; electron‐rich species produce selectively methane, while electron‐deficient species orientate the selectivity toward CO. This work may figure a new way for the synthesis of ultra‐dispersed catalysts for various applications.
Theranostic Nanomedicine for Synergistic Chemodynamic Therapy and Chemotherapy of Orthotopic Glioma
Authors: Tan Junyi , Duan Xiaohui , Zhang Fang , Ban Xiaohua , Mao Jiaji , Cao Minghui , Han Shisong , Shuai Xintao , Shen Jun
Published: November 2020

Glioma is a common primary brain malignancy with a poor prognosis. Chemotherapy is the first‐line treatment for brain tumors but low efficiency of drugs in crossing the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and drug resistance related to tumor hypoxia thwart its efficacy. Herein, a theranostic nanodrug (iRPPA@TMZ/MnO) is developed by incorporating oleic acid‐modified manganese oxide (MnO) and temozolomide (TMZ) into a polyethylene glycol‐poly(2‐(diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate‐based polymeric micelle containing internalizing arginine‐glycine‐aspartic acid (iRGD). The presence of iRGD provides the nanodrug with a high capacity of crossing the BBB and penetrating the tumor tissue. After accumulation in glioma, the nanodrug responds to the tumor microenvironment to simultaneously release TMZ, Mn2+, and O2. The released TMZ induces tumor cell apoptosis and the released Mn2+ causes intracellular oxidative stress that kill tumor cells via a Fenton‐like reaction. The O2 produced in situ alleviates tumor hypoxia and enhances the chemotherapy/chemodynamic therapeutic effects against glioma. The Mn2+ can also serve as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent for tumor imaging during therapy. The study demonstrates the great potential of this multifunctional nanodrug for MRI‐visible therapy of brain glioma.
Review: Detection of patient foramen ovale using transcranial Doppler or standard echocardiography
Authors: Van der Giessen Hanna , Wilson Luke C , Coffey Sean , Whalley Gillian A
Published: November 2020

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common remnant of fetal circulation present in up to 25% of the worldwide adult population. Paradoxical embolism occurs when venous blood crosses the PFO into the arterial system, bypassing the pulmonary circulation. This allows for the direct passage of microemboli into cerebral blood vessels, increasing the risk of cryptogenic stroke. This review investigates the current diagnostic procedures used to detect and grade a PFO, including transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) and transcranial Doppler (TCD). Only a few studies have directly compared the use of TTE with TCD for PFO detection but several have compared TTE and TCD independently against the clinical gold standard TOE. Known pitfalls of TTE and TCD are also discussed, including the difficulty of differentiating between intracardiac shunts and intrapulmonary shunts. This review also discusses methods to optimise imaging, such as performing an adequate Valsalva manoeuvre, the role of abdominal compression and the choice of the injection site for the contrast agent and how these may increase the diagnostic success of detecting a right‐to‐left shunt when prompted by a clinician.
Light‐Powered Autonomous Flagella‐Like Motion of Molecular Crystal Microwires
Authors: Tong Fei , Kitagawa Daichi , Bushnak Ibraheem , Al‐Kaysi Rabih O. , Bardeen Christopher J.
Published: November 2020

The ability to exhibit life‐like oscillatory motion fueled by light represents a new capability for stimuli‐responsive materials. Although this capability has been demonstrated in soft materials like polymers, it has never been observed in molecular crystals, which are not generally regarded as dynamic objects. In this work, it is shown that molecular crystalline microwires composed of (Z)‐2‐(3‐(anthracen‐9‐yl)allylidene)malononitrile ((Z)‐DVAM) can be continuously actuated when exposed to a combination of ultraviolet and visible light. The photo‐induced motion mimics the oscillatory behavior of biological flagella and enables propagation of microwires across a surface and through liquids, with translational speeds up to 7 μm s−1. This is the first example of molecular crystals that show complex oscillatory behavior under continuous irradiation. A model that relates the rotation of the transition dipole moment between reversible E→Z photoisomerization to the microscopic torque can qualitatively reproduce how the rotational frequency depends on light intensity and polarization.
Induction of Chirality in a Metal–Organic Framework Built from Achiral Precursors
Authors: Wu Dong , Zhou Kang , Tian Jindou , Liu Caiping , Tian Jiayue , Jiang Feilong , Yuan Daqiang , Zhang Jian , Chen Qihui , Hong Maochun
Published: November 2020

Induction of chirality from an achiral assembly system remains a huge challenge related to the origin of life. Here, induction of chirality in a metal–organic framework (MOF) built from achiral precursors has been realized. Assembling achiral H3BTB ligands and ZnII/CdII clusters leads to a 2D coordination polymer (FJI‐H16), while introduction of achiral pyridine into such assembly system leads to a 3D chiral MOF (FJI‐H27 (M) or (P)). The driven force for chiral generation has been proved to be a pyridine participated kinetic‐control assembly process, which can be controlled by changing the amount of pyridine and temperature, from no induction to partial induction to complete induction. The chiral generation process has been identified in detail through a pyridine‐involved key intermediate (FJI‐H28). The targeted modification of pyridine can selectively lead to FJI‐H27 (M) or FJI‐H27 (P), making the chiral orientation and distribution of bulk FJI‐H27 samples can be controlled. Our work not only represents a new chiral induction process that may relate to the chiral origin in nature, but also firstly reveals how achiral external stimuli generate chirality from achiral precursors, and offers a guide for rational preparation of chiral MOFs.
An Efficient Conjugation Approach for Coupling Drugs to Native Antibodies via the PtIILinkerLxfor Improved Manufacturability of Antibody–Drug Conjugates
Authors: Merkul Eugen , Muns Joey A. , Sijbrandi Niels J. , Houthoff Hendrik‐Jan , Nijmeijer Bart , van Rheenen Gerro , Reedijk Jan , van Dongen Guus A. M. S.
Published: November 2020

The PtIIlinker [ethylenediamineplatinum(II)]2+, coined Lx, has emerged as a novel non‐conventional approach to antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) and has shown its potential in preclinical in vitro and in vivo benchmark studies. A crucial improvement of the Lx conjugation reaction from initially <15 % to ca. 75–90 % conjugation efficiency is described, resulting from a systematic screening of all relevant reaction parameters. NaI, a strikingly simple inorganic salt additive, greatly improves the conjugation efficiency as well as the conjugation selectivity simply by exchanging the leaving chloride ligand on Cl‐Lx‐drug complexes (which are direct precursors for Lx‐ADCs) for iodide, thus generating I‐Lx‐drug complexes as more reactive species. Using this iodide effect, we developed a general and highly practical conjugation procedure that is scalable: our lead Lx‐ADC was produced on a 5 g scale with an outstanding conjugation efficiency of 89 %.
Identification of new IDH2R140Q inhibitors by discriminatory analysis‐based molecular docking and biological evaluation
Authors: Chen Xiaoyun , Wu Xianmin , Gao Jian , Ying Huazhou , Dong Xiaowu , Che Jinxin , Shen Zhijian
Published: November 2020

Isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2) is a key enzyme in the regulation of cell metabolism. Its mutated type can lead to the accumulation of 2‐hydroxyglutarate, which is often related to malignancies such as acute myeloid leukemia. Therefore, it is necessary to find new inhibitors targeting mutant IDH2. Discriminatory analysis‐based molecular docking was employed to screen the ChemDiv compound library, which resulted in the identification of three new IDH2R140Q inhibitors with moderate‐to‐good IC50 values. Among them, compounds 1 and 3 displayed good selectivity against other mutant or wild‐type IDH proteins. The most potent compound 1, bearing the [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidin scaffold, was subjected to dynamic simulations to provide more information on the binding mode with IDH2R140Q, providing structural clues to further optimize compound 1 as a new mutant IDH2 inhibitor.
Lösung nichtlinearer Optimierungsaufgaben im Bauingenieurwesen
Authors: Tabarelli Simon
Published: November 2020

In Zeiten, in denen der Klimawandel und der Naturschutz allgegenwärtige Themen sind, muss sich das Bauwesen die Frage stellen, durch welche Maßnahmen die Bauwerke der Zukunft ressourcenschonend und nachhaltig gebaut werden können. In dieser Hinsicht besitzen einige Disziplinen des Bauingenieurwesens, wie bspw. die Bauphysik und die Materialforschung, offensichtliches Optimierungspotenzial. Der konstruktive Ingenieurbau besitzt bei dem Entwurf und der Bemessung von Tragwerken ebenfalls ein großes Potenzial zur Optimierung, allerdings sind hier die Optimierungsmethoden hochgradig nichtlinear, komplex und zeitintensiv, weshalb sie nur selten angewendet werden. An dieser Problemstellung setzt eine neu entwickelte Methode zur Visualisierung und Verifizierung von Optimierungsergebnissen an. Die Visualisierung liefert durch die räumliche Darstellung nichtlinearer Zusammenhänge Erkenntnisse, die bei der Einordnung und Verifizierung von Optimierungsergebnissen helfen. Die neue Methode wurde anhand von Benchmark‐Testproblemen getestet und erweist sich als leistungsstarkes Tool zur schnelleren und unkomplizierteren Lösung von nichtlinearen Optimierungsproblemen.
A rapid, simple and ultrasensitive spectrofluorimetric method for the direct detection of metformin in real samples based on a nanoquenching approach
Authors: Azarian Sina , Shaghaghi Masoomeh , Dehghan Gholamreza , Sheibani Nader
Published: November 2020

Metformin (MET), as an oral antidiabetic and antihyperglycemic agent, is widely used to treat type II diabetes mellitus. Because of its increasing consumption, developing a fast, simple, and selective method to determine its concentration in biological samples (serum and urine) and pharmaceutical formulations (tablets) is of great interest. In this study, we used a FRET‐based fluorescent nanosensor (Tb–phen–AgNPs system) for sensitive detection of MET in tablet and serum samples. This method is based on the enhancing effect of MET on the emission intensity of the Tb–phen complex, which is quenched by AgNPs via energy transfer process (turn off–on mode). A good linear relationship between the MET concentration and enhanced emission intensity of the Tb–phen–AgNPs system was observed in the range of (0.75–3.7) × 10−6 M under optimum conditions. Limit of detection and limit of quantitation were calculated to be 0.43 × 10−6 M and 1.31 × 10−6 M, respectively. This method was successfully used to determine MET concentrations in pharmaceutical dosage form and in spiked serum sample. The obtained recoveries from pharmaceutical formulation and serum sample were in the range 86.75–98.97% and 85.10–100.96%, respectively. Collectively, our results indicated that the method described here is simple, sensitive, cost effective, and free from interference. Therefore, it can be used as an effective and routine method for the direct and rapid determination of MET levels in biological samples such as serum.
How mobile safety apps can streamline COVID‐19 response and management
Authors: Rahn Josh
Published: November 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has forced campus safety administrators and first responders to adapt existing tools to a continually changing public health reality. Mobile technology is proving to be especially useful in keeping campus communities safe and informed. Today, few leave home without their mobile device, making mobile applications a powerfully effective way to quickly share information.
Toward a personology of green consumers: An application of personal projects
Authors: Valor Carmen , Martínez‐de‐Ibarreta Carlos
Published: November 2020

With the aim of enriching the personology of green consumption, this paper draws from a social constructionist view of identity to propose the construct of personal projects as an adequate analytical unit for the study of green identity to explain the adoption of sustainable lifestyles. Using the personal project analysis methodology in a study with 103 adults and 510 personal projects, the current paper examines the thematic structure of personal projects that are more strongly associated with the adoption of sustainable consumption (SC); in addition, this study tests the mediating role of personal projects in the relationship between self‐transcendence values and SC and the moderation of project manageability in the relationship between personal projects and SC. The results show that the formulation of sustainable personal projects is significantly associated with the adoption of SC and that personal projects mediate the relationship between self‐transcendence values and SC. The results also suggest the moderating role of stressfulness. The paper shows the potential of personal projects as an analytical construct with which to study green consumers' identity.
Engineering the Next Generation of Matched Models for Chemical Translational Biology
Authors: Downes Daniel P.
Published: November 2020

In order to achieve patient personalization and translate compounds through the discovery phase into the clinic, high throughput test models should be designed to be as closely matched to the patient as possible. Engineering high throughput and physiologically relevant biological models is the idealized scenario for testing next generation modulators. I present here a cautionary example of a misaligned model as well as my viewpoint on how overcoming this bottleneck is one of the next frontiers in chemical biology.
Site‐Directed Mutagenesis of Modular Polyketide Synthase Ketoreductase Domains for Altered Stereochemical Control
Authors: Drufva Erin E. , Spengler Nolan R. , Hix Elijah G. , Bailey Constance B.
Published: November 2020

Bacterial modular type I polyketide synthases (PKSs) are complex multidomain assembly line proteins that produce a range of pharmaceutically relevant molecules with a high degree of stereochemical control. Due to their colinear properties, they have been considerable targets for rational biosynthetic pathway engineering. Among the domains harbored within these complex assembly lines, ketoreductase (KR) domains have been extensively studied with the goal of altering their stereoselectivity by site‐directed mutagenesis, as they confer much of the stereochemical complexity present in pharmaceutically active reduced polyketide scaffolds. Here we review all efforts to date to perform site‐directed mutagenesis on PKS KRs, most of which have been done in the context of excised KR domains on model diffusible substrates such as β‐keto N‐acetyl cysteamine thioesters. We also discuss the challenges around translating the findings of these studies to alter stereocontrol in the context of a complex multidomain enzymatic assembly line.