bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diurnal pattern of salivary alpha-amylase and cortisol under citric acid stimulation in young adults
Authors: Xie Haimei , Zheng Xiaomei , Huang Ye , Li Weihao , Wang Wenkai , Li Qiao , Hou Jiangtao , Luo Lulu , Kuang Xiuying , Lin Chuan-quan
Published: April 2022

Background

Saliva composition has diurnal variations. Citric acid stimulation plays a major role in the change of salivary flow rate and salivary composition. However, diurnal variations and sex differences in salivary alpha-amylase (sAA), pH, salivary flow rate (SFR), and salivary cortisol before and after citric acid stimulation remain unclear.

Methods

We recruited 30 healthy volunteers, including 15 women (24.7 ± 1.0 years old) and 15 men (25.3 ± 1.3 years old). At four time points (T1, 7:00; T2, 10:00; T3, 16:00; and T4, 20:00), saliva was collected from healthy volunteers before and after citric acid stimulation; and sAA, pH, SFR and salivary cortisol were measured and compared between men and women.

Results

There were circadian fluctuations in sAA activity, SFR, pH, and cortisol level both before and after citric acid stimulation, and the diurnal fluctuations of these indexes were not affected by citric acid stimulation. There were significant differences in salivary cortisol between men and women before and after acid stimulation in T1. Neither SFR nor pH showed sex-related differences before or after acid stimulation. The variation trend of sAA activity was contrary to that of cortisol, with a significant negative correlation.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that sAA and cortisol showed diurnal fluctuation, and the variation characteristics of male and female under resting state and acid stimulation were basically the same. The variation trend of salivary alpha-amylase activity was opposite to that of cortisol, with significant negative correlation. Our findings may enable the selection of the correct sampling time for research and the selection of appropriate sampling strategies in studies investigating chronic psychosocial conditions.
Identification of the original plants of cultivated Bupleuri Radix based on DNA barcoding and chloroplast genome analysis
Authors: Zhang Gaixia , Wang Hui , Shi Linchun , Liu Yang , Yao Ruyu , Sui Chun , Yang Chengmin , Ji Hongliang , Wang Qiuling , Wei Jianhe
Published: April 2022

Bupleuri Radix is the dry root of certain species of the genus Bupleurum and is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. The increasing global demand for Bupleuri Radix cannot be fulfilled with wild populations only. Therefore, cultivated Bupleurum is now the main commercial source of this medicinal product. Different species of Bupleurum show different medicinal properties and clinical effects, making reliable authentication and assignment of correct botanical origin for medicinal species critical. However, accurate identification of the cultivated Bupleurum species is difficult due to dramatic morphological variations resulting from cultivation. In this study, we sampled 56 cultivated Bupleurum populations of six different morphotypes (Types A-F) from the main production areas of China, and 10 wild populations of four species were used as reference materials. Conventional DNA barcoding was conducted to identify cultivated Bupleurum species. Additionally, verification based on complete chloroplast genomes was performed and new chloroplast markers were developed and evaluated. The combination of these methods resulted in the successful identification of all cultivated Bupleurum individuals. Three chloroplast regions are recommended as additional barcodes for the genus: ycf4_cemA, psaJ_rpl33, and ndhE_ndhG. This is a reliable and promising strategy that can be applied to the authentication of natural products and the identification of other medicinal plant species with similar taxonomic problems.
CAMINO CIUDADES SUSTENTABLES: Aportes desde la investigación a las políticas públicas urbanas en Chile
Authors: Vives Alejandra , Román Álvaro , Daher Antonio , Bonilla Carlos , Rojas Carolina , Matus Christian , Henríquez Cristian , Escobar Favio , Link Felipe , Súarez Francisco , Jorquera Héctor , Silva Hugo , Vargas Ignacio , Rehner Johannes , Gironás Jorge , Herrera Josefina , Carrasco Juan Antonio , Herrera Juan Carlos , Muñoz Juan Carlos , Ortúzar Juan de Dios , Sagaris Lake , Pérez Leonel , Parraguez Leslie , Bresciani L. Luis Eduardo , Fuentes Luis , Rizzi Luis Ignacio , Tironi Manuel , Greene Margarita , Molinos María , Trebilcock María Paz , López Mauricio , Pastén Pablo , Arroyo Paz , D'Alencon Renato , Giesen Ricardo , Hurtubia Ricardo , Serpell Ricardo , Ganter Rodrigo , Cortés Sandra , Vera Sergio , Bustamante Waldo
Published: April 2022

ESTA PUBLICACIÓN REÚNE 17 DOCUMENTOS PARA POLÍTICA PÚBLICA CON MIRADAS LOCALES SOBRE LA NUEVA AGENDA URBANA DE LA ONU QUE BUSCA SER UN APORTE A LA DISCUSIÓN DE LA CALIDAD DE VIDA EN LAS CIUDADES CHILENAS. CEDEUS es un centro interdisciplinario de investigación que busca la generación e intercambio de conocimiento con el fin de enfrentar los desafíos de nuestras ciudades para mejorar la calidad de vida de sus habitantes de forma equitativa y con preocupación por el cuidado del medio ambiente. Juan Carlos Muñoz, Director de CEDUS, señala que “así como es importante la producción del conocimiento y la discusión entre pares, es fundamental generar instancias de diálogo entre la academia y los tomadores de decisiones a todos los niveles: en las municipalidades, en los gobiernos regionales y también en los ministerios”. Esta publicación es un esfuerzo para impulsar este diálogo. Camino a Ciudades Sustentables/ Aportes de la investigación a la política pública urbana en Chile, reúne 17 documentos de 40 investigadores que analizan las ciudades chilenas y las políticas urbanas implementadas en las últimas décadas, a la luz de la Nueva Agenda Urbana (NAU) que surge de la Conferencia HABITAT III. A decir del Director de CEDEUS, “la NAU fue un gran esfuerzo de las Naciones Unidas y es una buena hoja de ruta que se complementa con los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible, y su bajada en la agenda 2030 para América Latina. Ahora, nuestra tarea es impulsar dichas agendas en Chile, poniendo a disposición de la sociedad, de legisladores y de profesionales del Estado lo que sabemos de las ciudades en Chile”. Camino a Ciudades Sustentable se estructura en torno a los mismos documentos temáticos que tiene la NAU, pero con información pertinente a nuestro país.
In the Context of Critical Thinking and Critical Literacy Paulo Freire: Pedagogy of the Oppressed
Authors: KORKUTAN Kadir , KAPLAN Kadir
Published: April 2022

Paulo Freire, Ezilenlerin Pedagojisi adlı çalışmasında eğitim mekanizmasındaki bir takım problemlere değinirken aynı zamanda bu problemlerin çözümleri ile ilgili önerilerde bulunmaktadır. Çalışmada bahsedilen bankacı eğitim modelinde
bidonlara, kaplara benzetilen öğrencileri gerçeklikle bağlantısı olmayan içeriklerle dolduran öğretmenler; buna karşılık problem tanımlayıcı eğitim anlayışında kendi özgürleşme mücadelesini veren eğitim katılımcıları bulunmaktadır.
Bir tarafta diyalog karşıtı eylem kuramının manipülasyon, fetih ve kültürel istila yoluyla nesneye dönüştürdüğü kişiler, diğer yanda diyalogcu eylem kuramının kültürel sentez ve dönüşüm yoluyla özgürleştirmeye çalıştığı bireyler
yer almaktadır. Bankacı model ve diyalog karşıtı kuramın oluşturduğu sessiz yığınlar ve onların içinde bulundukları sınır-durumların aşılmasının gerekliliği çalışmanın bir başka boyutunu oluşturmaktadır. Bireylerde praksis yoluyla
bir conscientizaçao yaratma sürecinde ve özgürleştirici eğitimin hayata geçirilmesi aşamasında ülke politikaları ve bu politikaların eğitim sistemine yansımaları büyük rol oynamaktadır. Araştırmada doküman incelemesi yöntemiyle
Freire’nin çalışmasında dile getirilen bu hususlar incelenmiştir. Çalışmadan hareketle tespit edilen sorunlara ve çözüm önerilerine bulgular başlığında değinilmiştir. Tartışma ve sonuç bölümünde ise araştırmadan elde edilen sonuçların
benzer çalışmalar ile örtüşen ve ayrışan yönlerine yer verilmiştir.
Critical Discourse Analysis of the Presentation in the TRNC Press of the Decision to Reopen Closed Maraş in the 2020 TRNC Presidential Election Process
Authors: BAYRAKTAR Ümmü ALTAN
Published: April 2022

Medya egemen söylemlerin ve ideolojilerin inşa edildiği çok yönlü bir mücadele alanıdır. Hegemonya mücadelesi ve rıza üretiminde en önemli araçlardan biri olan, bu mücadele alanında üretilen haberler de oluşturulmak istenen gerçekliğe
hizmet etmek üzere çeşitli ideolojik dolayımlar ekseninde yapılandırılmakta; özellikle tüm ülkeyi ilgilendiren seçim dönemlerinde bu mücadele daha da belirginleşmektedir. Bu çalışmada KKTC yazılı basınından seçilen ve örneklem
içinde yer verilen gazetelerde yer alan araştırma konusuna ilişkin haberlerin hangi ideolojik zeminde üretildiğini tespit edebilmek için, 11 Ekim 2020’de gerçekleştirilen 2020 KKTC cumhurbaşkanlığı seçim sürecinde alınan Kapalı
Maraş sahil şeridinin açılması kararının açıklanması ve bunu müteakip açılışının yapıldığı dönem incelenmiştir. Kapalı Maraş sahil şeridinin açılması kararının, KKTC’de 11 Ekim 2020’de gerçekleştirilecek olan KKTC Cumhurbaşkanlığı
seçimine beş gün kala, 6 Ekim 2020 tarihinde açıklanması ve 8 Ekim 2020 tarihinde de açılışın yapılması nedeniyle, kararın basına yansıdığı gün olan 7 Ekim-9 Ekim tarihleri arasında; Kıbrıs, Yeni Düzen ve Güneş gazetelerinde yayınlanmış
olan haberler Van Dijk’in eleştirel söylem analizi yöntemi ile incelenmiştir. Çalışmanın sonucunda seçilen gazetelerin incelendiği süre kapsamında, gazetelerde Kapalı Maraş sahil şeridinin halkın istifadesine açılması kararı ve
açılışına ilişkin yapılandırılan haberlerin, gazetelerin temel ideolojileri ve bu ideolojileri belirginleştiren söylemler doğrultusunda üretildiği, söylemlerin haber metinlerinde kullanılan dilsel stratejilerle nasıl üretildiği
ve yeniden üretim sürecine nasıl katkıda bulunduğu ortaya konmuştur.
Prevalence of Domestic Violence among Pregnant Women: A Cross-sectional Study from a Tertiary Care Centre, Puducherry, India
Authors: Samal Sunita , Poornesh Sagana
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Domestic Violence (DV) during pregnancy is a serious public health issue which threatens maternal and foetal health outcomes. Routine antenatal care provides an opportunity for identifying women experiencing violence during pregnancy. Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of DV among pregnant women so that foetal complications can be prevented and adequate measures can be taken to protect mothers from DV. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st October to 30th November 2016 at the Outpatient Department (OPD) of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Puducherry, India. A validated modified version of Abuse Assessment Screen questionnaire was given to 200 pregnant women at their first hospital visit. A statistical analysis was conducted using Chi-square test and Fisher’s-Exact Test in MS Excel 2007, version 12.0. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: A total of 200 consecutive pregnant women at the first visit to hospital were enrolled in the study. Prevalence of DV was reported to be 6.5%. Out of which maximum (2.5%) reported verbal abuse. There was no reporting of sexual abuse. Educational status showed influence on DV. Economic status too had great influence on DV which was more prevalent among proverty strucken people (19.4%). There were 7.9% incidences for DV in the age group <25 year (p-value=0.3). Prevalence was slightly more in rural areas (8.7%) than in urban areas (4.2%) (p-value=0.2). With respect to education, women with high school and above had lower incidence of DV (4.8%). Conclusion: The pregnant woman should be continually provided with a non judgemental, sensitive and supportive service during their pregnancies. The study establishes that women in the present environment experience DV during pregnancy and more in younger age group. This is also more common in women with lower literacy and with lower socio-economic status.
Toxicological Studies of Citrus aurantifolia Fruit Juice in Wistar Rats
Authors: Ezeigwe Obiajulu Christian , Ani Onuabuchi Nnenna , Okafor Michael Chinonso
Published: April 2022

Background: Citrus aurantifolia has been well known for its economic importance either as food or medicine. Previous studies have shown the antidiabetic, anti-cholesterol, hepato-protective and antioxidant properties of the fruit juice.

Purpose: This study focused on the effects of continuous oral administration of C. aurantifolia (lime) fruit juice for a period of three months on the biochemical indices of Wistar albino rats.

Methods: Acute toxicity test (LD50) was done using Lorke’s method. Twenty (20) rats of both sexes weighing between 120 g and 130 g were randomized into 4 groups of five rats each. Group A (normal control) was given feed and water only, Group B, C and D were given 2, 4 and 8 ml/kg bodyweight (b.w) of Citrus aurantifolia fruit juice respectively. At the end of the treatment period, fasting blood glucose level was determined and blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture from the experimental animals for the evaluation of the serum concentrations of biochemical parameters (liver function, kidney function, electrolytes, lipid profile, lactate dehydrogenase, and lipid peroxidation). These analyses were carried out using standard diagnostic techniques.

Results: From the result of the LD50, no death was recorded for doses of 50 ml/kg b.w and below while at doses of 60 and 100 ml/kg b.w, there were signs of toxicity and death of the experimental animals.  The mean lethal dose (LD50) was 54.8 ml/kg bw. The fasting blood sugar levels were maintained within the normal range throughout the period of administration. The concentrations of ALT, AST, ALP, urea and creatinine were significantly (p<0.05) decreased while GGT, Albumin, Total protein, total bilirubin, K+, Na+, Cl-, HCO3- and the pH levels were not significantly (p<0.05) altered for the 3 doses tested when compared to the normal control. However, a dosage of 8 ml/kg bw significantly decreased the direct bilirubin level. The levels of total cholesterol, LDL-C, triacylgylcerol and VLDL were significantly (p<0.05) reduced with a significant (p<0.05) increase in the HDL-C when compared to the normal control. There was also a significant (p<0.05) increase in blood LDH levels. Dosages of 2 and 4ml/kg bw did not significantly alter the levels of MDA in relation to the normal control but 8 ml/kg bw significantly (p<0.05) decreased the MDA levels of the rats.

Conclusion: The biochemical parameters assayed suggests that proper doses of the C. aurantifolia fruit juice do not cause any harmful or adverse effect to the organs and tissues in the body.
Shaping Smart City transportation with Traffic Congestion Solutions: Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Authors: Kumar Dey Chandan , Prasad Mishra Siba , Kumar Barik Kamal , Ku. Sahu Deepak
Published: April 2022

Transportation and connectivity are of the most domineering aspects of developing cities and is necessary for ensuring the growth of urban areas. The perplexing, perpetual and complex concerns in present cosmopolis are sluggish traffic movement and jamming. In India, due to rapid increase in population along with urbanization and improved living condition, the vehicular population have increased massively. Traffic congestions has become a major problem at intersections. The main objective of this project is to analyse traffic problems at a suitable intersection and suggesting an alternate solution. In this study, we have taken two main intersections, one at Kalinga Hospital Square junction and another at Damana Square junction. After analysing and comparing peak values of two intersections, junction with highest peak value is of first choice. According to IRC: SP: 90-2010, manual for grade separators and elevated structures the maximum volume a rotary can handle is specified as 5000pcu/hr and an elevated structure could be provided beyond this limit. A simple grade separator, that is, a flyover provided at this intersection to segregate the high volume of traffic. With the flyover at the intersection, major proportion of the traffic volume is side tracked to the fly over bridges, and abridges the delay of vehicles. Thus, the same volume of traffic bifurcate to move at two different levels and leaves no chance for any accident. On implementation of the project, along with smart traffic and the intelligent transportation system, the present and future demands of the traffic flow along the route will be satisfied without any distraction in traffic management.
Ranking of Districts of Andhra Pradesh According to Sustainable Livelihood Security Indices Values
Authors: Sunitha G. , Vani N. , Aparna B. , Murty B. Ramana
Published: April 2022

By computing the Sustainable Livelihood Security Indices, the current research study aimed to estimate and rank the sustainability in development and livelihood status of thirteen districts in Andhra Pradesh (SLSI). SLSI is a compound index made up of three indices: ecological security index (ESI), economic efficiency index (EEI), and social equity index (SEI). It is one of the most comprehensive yet straightforward indexes for assessing long-term security in livelihood in the research domain. For the time periods of 2006, 2016, and 2017 the districts of Andhra Pradesh were ranked in three categories depending on their level of development: high, medium, and low sustainable. According to the findings, the districts viz. West Godavari, East Godavari, Guntur, Krishna, and Prakasham have stayed in the high sustainable category without modification among time periods 2006, 2016, and 2017. Chittoor, S.P.S. Nellore, and Y.S.R. Kadapa were observed to be developing at a medium pace. In all three years, the districts of Srikakulam, Vishakapatanam, and Vizianagaram were observed to have a low degree of sustainability in SLSI category.
Antimicrobial Activity of Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum and Gongronema latifolium Synergy on Common Foodborne Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Ahaotu I. , Richard N. Y.
Published: April 2022

The search for antimicrobial agents from natural sources such as diverse plant species against foodborne pathogens has less side effect than chemically synthesized compounds. In this study, antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extract, hot and cold aqueous extracts of Vernonia amygdalina, Ocimum gratissimum and Gongronema latifolium was tested against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. The leaf extracts of Vernonia amygdalina did not show antimicrobial activity against the test isolates. The diameter of zone of inhibition shown by ethanolic leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium and Ocimum gratissimum against S. aureus is 12.0±1 mm and 10±2 mm, respectively. With regards to ethanolic leaf extract of Gongronema latifolium and Ocimum gratissimum, the diameter of zone of inhibition demonstrated against L. monocytogenes and E. coli is 18.0±2 mm and 6.0±1 mm, respectively. A synergistic ethanolic or aqueous extracts of the leaves did not show antimicrobial activity against the test isolates. However, ethanolic extracts of Gongronema latifolium and Ocimum gratissimum used separately is an effective antimicrobial agent the test isolates.
PENGARUH TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE MODEL DAN PERCEIVED BENEFITS TERHADAP MINAT PENGGUNAAN APLIKASI SHOPEE FOOD PADA MASYARAKAT SURABAYA
Authors: Wangsadinata Richard , Geraldine Clarissa Nathania , Aprilia Adriana
Published: April 2022

This research is conducted to examine the influence of Technology Acceptance Model (Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, and Trust) and Perceived Benefits (Price Saving Benefits and Time Saving Benefits) toward Surabaya consumers’ intention to use Shopee Food application. The questionnaire is distributed to 150 respondents that lived in Surabaya and used an Online Food Delivery application. The type of research is quantitative casual research and using multiple linear regression analysis. The result shows that Perceived Usefulness and Time Saving Benefits have a positive and significant effect on Surabaya consumers' intention to use Shopee Food application. Meanwhile, Perceived Ease of Use, Trust, and Price Saving Benefits have insignificant effect on Surabaya consumers’ intention to use Shopee Food application.

Abstrak                                                                   

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui pengaruh Technology Acceptance Model (Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, dan Trust) dan Perceived Benefits (Price Saving Benefits dan Time Saving Benefits) terhadap minat penggunaan aplikasi Shopee Food pada masyarakat Surabaya. Kuesioner penelitian ini dibagikan kepada 150 responden yang berdomisili di Surabaya dan sudah pernah menggunakan aplikasi Online Food Delivery. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kausal kuantitatif dengan metode analisis regresi linier berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Perceived Usefulness dan Time Saving Benefits berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap minat penggunaan aplikasi Shopee Food pada masyarakat Surabaya. Sementara itu, Perceived Ease of Use, Trust, dan Price Saving Benefits berpengaruh namun tidak signifikan terhadap minat penggunaan aplikasi Shopee Food pada masyarakat Surabaya.
ANALISA PENGARUH KOMPLEKSITAS VISUAL PADA FOTO MAKANAN DI INSTAGRAM TERHADAP MINAT BELI MELALUI RESPON EMOSIONAL
Authors: Olivia Jessica , Antonina Delicia , Jokom Regina , Iskandar Vido
Published: April 2022

Instagram has become one of the most popular social media, especially for generation Z. Therefore, Instagram was perceived as an effective marketing tool in food and beverage industry. Photo is the main characteristic in Instagram. Thus, food and beverage owners were encouraged to create a content with attractive photo in order to increase their sales. This study was conducted to determine the significant effect of food photo visual complexity on Instagram towards consumer purchase intention through emotional responses. The study was conducted a survey on 432 respondents who were students of Petra Christian University in Surabaya and the data was analyzed using Partial Least Square (PLS). The results indicated that there is a positive and significant influence between the visual complexity of purchase intention through emotional responses.

Abstrak                                                                               

Instagram menjadi salah satu media sosial yang paling diminati masyarakat Indonesia terutama dikalangan anak muda. Hal ini membuat Instagram menjadi salah satu media pemasaran yang efektif khususnya dalam industri makanan minuman. Karakteristik utama Instagram yang banyak menggunakan foto, membuat pengusaha makanan minuman harus mampu membuat konten dengan foto yang menarik untuk dapat meningkatkan penjualan produknya. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui apakah kompleksitas visual pada sebuah foto makanan di Instagram dapat berpengaruh siginifikan terhadap minat beli mahasiswa melalui respon emosional. Penelitian dilakukan pada 432 orang responden yang merupakan mahasiswa Universitas Kristen Petra Surabaya dan diolah menggunakan Partial Least Square (PLS). Hasil yang diperoleh dari penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh yang positif dan signifikan antara kompleksitas visual terhadap minat beli melalui respon emosional.
Plasmonic Carbon Nitride Polymers to Boost Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Tian Dehua , Yin Huabing , Liu Lu , Li Baojun , Li Juan , Lou Zaizhu
Published: April 2022

Plasmonic organic polymers with strong surface plasmon resonance (SPR) hold exciting prospects in various fields but are challenging to synthesize. Herein, SPR is successfully constructed on carbon nitride polymers by photoelectron accumulation for enhanced photocatalysis. NCN‐modification on carbon nitride causes the separated highest occupied molecular orbit/lowest unoccupied molecular orbit distribution in its electronic structure for efficient charge separation. Long‐lived photoelectron accumulation on NCN‐modified carbon nitride polymer (NCN‐CNx) is observed by single‐particle photoluminescence spectroscopy, causing strong SPR absorption in the 500–800 nm spectral region. Electron‐density‐dependent SPR of NCN‐CNxis highly sensitive to oxygen, making it a plasmonic sensor for oxygen detection. The positive roles of SPR in greatly promoting photoreactions over NCN‐CNxare demonstrated by NH3BH3decomposition, and 13 mL h−1hydrogen is generated under>500 nm light irradiation, five‐fold higher than that of non‐plasmonic H2N‐CNx. Moreover, SPR of NCN‐CNxcan greatly promote photocatalytic hydrogen generation to be 1.1 mmol g−1(3 h) under>500 nm irradiation and the synergy between intrinsic bands and SPR excitation boosts 3.1 mmol g−1(3 h) hydrogen generation under>400 nm irradiation. This work provides clear evidence that SPR engineering on organic polymer can boost light harvesting for efficient photocatalysis.
Polarized Laser Switching with Giant Contrast in MOF‐Based Mixed‐Matrix Membrane
Authors: Li Hongjun , Zhang Lin , Yang Yu , Hu Enlai , Li Bin , Cui Yuanjing , Yang Deren , Qian Guodong
Published: April 2022

Nonlinear optical (NLO) switch materials have attracted considerable attention in photonics. Although various materials based on complex structural transitions have been developed extensively, the studies on light‐driven up‐conversion laser switches are rare, which have advantages including easy operations at room temperature and high contrasts. Here, the concept of photoswitch building unit is proposed to construct a novel sandwich‐like mixed‐matrix membrane. Dye@metal‐organic framework (MOF) crystals and spirooxazine are regarded as the laser emission and absorption units, followed by their hierarchical encapsulation into the polydimethylsiloxane carrier unit. Excited MOF microcrystals exhibit two‐photon pumped lasing anisotropy, with an ultrahigh degree of linear polarization (≈99.9%). Photochromic molecules can be interconverted by the external ultraviolet stimulus, causing sharp absorption‐band variations and inducing the laser emission or quenching. Such up‐conversion polarized laser switch material is reported for the first time. Record‐high NLO contrast (≈6.1 × 104) among the solid‐state NLO switch materials can be obtained through simultaneously controlling the ultraviolet irradiation and the emission‐detected polarization direction at room temperature.
Switch from Anionic Polymerization to Coordinative Chain Transfer Polymerization: A Valuable Strategy to Make Olefin Block Copolymers
Authors: Baulu Nicolas , Langlais Marvin , Ngo Robert , Thuilliez Julien , Jean‐Baptiste‐dit‐Dominique François , D'Agosto Franck , Boisson Christophe
Published: April 2022

Anionic polymerization of butadiene or/and styrene is performed with lithium initiators, functional or not. The polymer chains are subsequently transferred to magnesium. The resulting polymeryl‐magnesium compounds were combined with {(Me2Si(C13H8)2)Nd(μ‐BH4)[(μ‐BH4)Li(THF)]}2 metallocene complex to act as macromolecular chain transfer agents (macroCTAs) in coordinative chain transfer polymerization (CCTP) of ethylene (E) or its copolymerization (CCTcoP) with butadiene (B). Block copolymers were produced for the first time by this switch from anionic polymerization to CCTP. Hard and soft blocks such as PB, polystyrene (PS), poly(styrene‐co‐butadiene) (SBR) obtained by anionic polymerization and PE or poly(ethylene‐co‐butadiene) (EBR) produced by CCT(co)P were combined and the corresponding structures were characterized.
Influence of manganese oxide‐coated granular media on disinfection byproduct formation
Authors: Bazilio Arianne A. , Nguyễn Chuyên , Mai Xuyen , Larsen Yesher , Tobiason John E.
Published: April 2022

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of manganese oxide (MnOx) coated granular media on disinfection byproduct (DBP) formation for dissolved manganese (Mn(II)) and natural organic matter (NOM) concentrations typical in drinking water treatment (DWT). Instantaneous and 24‐h haloacetic acid and total trihalomethane concentrations of influent and effluent samples from two DWT plants, one using MnOx‐coated dual media (DM) filters and the other using second‐stage contactors for Mn(II) sorption by coarse MnOx‐coated ceramic media after DM filtration, were examined. Results showed that interaction with MnOx‐coated surfaces did not increase measured DBP concentrations. Observed increases in 24‐h DBP concentrations for the surface water plant were attributed to filter‐associated NOM, and not the MnOx coating. The findings of this study indicate that a second‐stage contactor – with MnOx‐coated media utilized for Mn(II) removal after a particle removal filter – does not increase DBP formation under typical treatment conditions.
Energy transfer process in a rare earth (Ce3+, Dy3+, Sm3+)‐doped nanocrystalline phosphate phosphor
Authors: Mushtaque Sadaf Gauhar M. , Pawade V. B. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: April 2022

This work presents the optimized luminescence spectra for the Ce3+,Sm3+‐doped NaSrPO4 phosphor that was synthesized using a wet chemical method. Ce3+ and Sm3+ are activator impurities that show spectral splitting bands that corresponds to the d–f and f–f transitions, respectively. These impurity elements shows the characteristics spectral bands when doped with the NaSrPO4 host lattice. Spectral splitting in the Ce3+ excitation band was monitored in the 240–340 nm range, in which the observed bands were located at 269 nm, 292 nm and 321 nm, and emission bands were observed in the broad spectral range 330–430 nm. However, when Sm3+ ion was doped in the same host lattice we obtained a characteristic emission band at 590 and 645 nm in the orange–red region, under sharp excitation bands located at 345, 361, 375, and 403 nm respectively. Also, we carried out energy transfer analysis in the Ce3+/Dy3+‐doped NaSrPO4 phosphor. Further crystalline phase and the nanophase nature of the phosphor compound were confirmed using X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analyses.
A novel core skeleton design and synthesis of N‐alkyl‐1′‐(substituted sulfonyl)spiro[chromene‐2,4′‐piperidin]‐6‐amine derivatives as 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitors
Authors: Lee Hwa‐Sung , Abdildinova Aizhan , Cho Young Sik , Cheon Hyae Gyeong , Gong Young‐Dae
Published: April 2022

5‐LO inhibitors can potentially be employed for the treatment of various inflammatory disorders. In this study, we have designed and synthesized new N‐alkyl‐1′‐(substituted sulfonyl)spiro[chromene‐2,4′‐piperidin]‐6‐amine‐based library as potential and novel 5‐LO inhibitors. In vitro results showed that several synthesized compounds exhibited high 5‐LO inhibitory activity, in parallel with the inhibition of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) production in the rat basophilic leukemia (RBL‐1) cells. Among the synthesized compounds, 8l was selected for in vivo study using a mouse ear edema model: oral administration of 8l (100 mg/kg) inhibited arachidonic acid‐induced ear edema, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and LTB4 synthesis. SAR analysis and molecular docking studies demonstrated the allosteric binding mode between 5‐LO and the synthesized compounds including 8l.
A novel sulfonated aromatic polyimide synthesis and characterization: Energy calculations, QTAIM simulation study of the hydrated structure of one unit
Authors: Yildiko Umit , Tanriverdi Aslihan Aycan
Published: April 2022

A new type of sulfonated polyimide was synthesized from a one‐step polycondensation reaction with perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic dianhydride and 4,4′‐diamino‐2,2′‐stilbenedisulfonic. Pure characterization of sulfonated polyimide (SPI) was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, differential thermal gravimetric analysis, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and solubility tests. Moreover, the SPI film was prepared by a thermal imidization step heating procedure. Furthermore, quantum chemical calculations of the synthesized SPI were investigated with density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent density functional theory. By calculating the frontiers molecular orbital energies of the obtained polyimide, the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), and the energy gap (Δ) values were found for the one structural unit and three structural units of SPI, respectively. Also, QTAIM was carried out based on the AIMAll program. With the increase in water molecules, the average electronic energy density (HBCP) value decreased according to the results of QTAIM. The SPI can be used as a potential membrane in fuel cells.
The perception of engineering students and instructors in a Saudi University toward E‐learning
Authors: Jabali A. Karim
Published: April 2022

This study is designed to assess engineering students' and instructors' perceptions toward using E‐learning relative to their actual use metrics. A cross‐sectional survey was designed to assess perspectives among all undergraduate students from five engineering departments, in addition to those students at the general engineering level. Meanwhile, a different survey was designed and sent to the college instructors to explore their perceptions of their teaching courses. Finally, analytics data from the learning management system (LMS) log data were obtained for comparison. Additionally, the perceptions were evaluated against demographic factors for each group. The differences between both perspectives of students and instructors toward E‐learning tools are seen particularly in assessing the use of E‐learning communication, and assessment capabilities. Instructors mainly use the LMS to post material rather than taking full advantage of the other E‐Learning environment tools (communication, assessment, etc.) to promote a stronger interaction with students and foster student learning. The instructors' focus on using LMS for posting the course material is about 72%, while 68% of students have the same view on using LMS access the course material. Furthermore, the use of LMS as a communication tool is considered by about 56% of students compared with 47% of instructors who agree on this opinion. The portion of instructors perceiving the LMS as non‐difficult is 37%, while there is about 25% of them who took the opposite opinion. In the students' side there is about 52% who considers the LMS as non‐difficult compared to 20% who consider it as difficult. But investigating the log data of the LMS shows that the actual use frequency is rather low indicating an overestimated use of the LMS. The apparent overestimation of the students' and instructors' level of E‐learning usage has stemmed from the lack of or weak E‐learning culture. The analysis of the collected data shows that the length of LMS experience of the instructors has more effect on overall perception of the online courses than academic experience, rank, or academic department. Furthermore, it is revealed that the student's academic year significantly affects how these students assess the courses and instructors' interaction, while the department to which the student belongs is affecting some but not all elements of the courses. The findings of this study will help the school administration effectively develop an E‐learning framework for students and teachers to enhance overall learning performance.
Interfacial Charge Modulation via in situ Fabrication of 3D Conductive Platform with MOF Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2
Authors: Wang Xiaojun , Liu Yunpeng , Chai Guodong , Yang Guorui , Wang Caiyun , Yan Wei
Published: April 2022

Highly‐efficient photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into valuable carbon‐contained chemicals possesses a tremendous potential in solving the energy crisis and global warming problem. However, the inadequate separation of photogenerated electron‐hole pairs and the unsatisfied capture of CO2 stay the chief roadblocks. Herein, we designed a novel photocatalyst for CO2 reduction by assembling three‐dimensional graphene (3D GR) with a typical metal‐organic framework material UIO‐66‐NH2, aiming to construct a built‐in electric field for charge separation as well as taking advantage of the typical 3D structure of GR for maximizing the exposed absorption site on the surface. The performance evaluation demonstrated that the photocatalytic activity has been improved for the composite materials compared with that of the pure UIO‐66‐NH2. Further mechanism investigations proved that the enhanced photocatalytic performance is attributed to the synergy of enhanced CO2 absorption and inhibited photogenerated charge recombination, which could be owing to the better distribution and exposure of absorption and reaction sites on composites, and the redistribution of photogenerated carriers between 3D GR and UIO‐66‐NH2. This study provides a promising pathway to probe nanocomposites based on MOFs in environmental improvement and other relevant fields.
Low‐Temperature Isolation of a Labile Silylated Hydrazinium‐yl Radical Cation, [(Me3Si)2N−N(H)SiMe3].+
Authors: Reiß Fabian , Villinger Alexander , Brand Harald , Baumann Wolfgang , Hollmann Dirk , Schulz Axel
Published: April 2022

The oxidation of silylated hydrazine, (Me3Si)2N−N(H)SiMe3, with silver salts led to the formation of a highly labile hydrazinium‐yl radical cation, [(Me3Si)2N−N(H)SiMe3].+, at very low temperatures (decomposition > −40 °C). EPR, NMR, DFT and Raman studies revealed the formation of a nitrogen‐centered radical cation along the N−N unit of the hydrazine. In the presence of the weakly coordinating anion [Al{OCH(CF3)2}4]−, crystallization and structural characterization in the solid state were achieved. The hydrazinium‐yl radical cation has a significantly shortened N−N bond and a nearly planar N2Si3 framework, in contrast to the starting material. According to DFT calculations, the shortened N−N bond has a total bond order of 1.5 with a π‐bond order of 0.5. The π bond can be regarded as a three‐π‐electron, two‐center bond.
Stereochemical study on planar‐chiral cyclic molecules using polysaccharide‐based column chromatography
Authors: Igawa Kazunobu , Uehara Kazuhiro , Kawasaki Yuuya , Tomooka Katsuhiko
Published: April 2022

The presence of planar chirality of a variety of medium‐sized heterocycles, along with nine‐membered cyclic ketone and its enol ester, was revealed by observation of isolable enantiomers by analytical high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using a chiral stationary phase with a polysaccharide‐based chiral selector. Several tens of milligrams of enantiomers of the planar‐chiral molecules were successfully separated by preparative‐scale HPLC, leading to the preparation of an enantioenriched sample. This in turn enabled detailed stereochemical studies, including measurement of half‐lives of the optical activity and X‐ray crystallography for elucidation of stereochemistry.
“From Dieselgate to nitrogen” – An experimental setting (not only) for chemistry education
Authors: Brockhage Frauke , Amel Henning , Lüsse Mientje , Pietzner Verena , Beeken Marco
Published: April 2022

Stickstoff ist ein überlebenswichtiges Element – in Verbindung mit anderen Elementen ist es Grundlage für pflanzliche und tierische Lebensformen, beispielsweise als Bestandteil von Proteinen und Enzymen. Durch anthropogene Einflüsse wurde der Stickstoffkreislauf jedoch maßgeblich destabilisiert, wodurch Risiken für erhebliche Folgen auf Mensch und Umwelt entstehen. Eine Ursache des übermäßigen Eintrags reaktiver Stickstoffverbindungen in die Umwelt sind Verbrennungsprozesse im Verkehr und in der Industrie, wodurch hohe Stickoxidbelastungen insbesondere in städtischen und verkehrsreichen Gebieten auftreten. Die Chemie liefert mit dem SCR‐Verfahren zur Reduzierung der Stickoxidemissionen eine Lösung, welche jedoch von mehreren Automobilherstellern manipuliert wurde. In diesem Beitrag wird unter dem Kontext des VW‐Abgasskandals anhand innovativer Experimente dargestellt, wie die Stickstoffproblematik Einzug in die schulische Bildung erhalten kann.
Equity
Authors: Wieland Jana , Jordan Barbara L. , Jatoi Aminah
Published: April 2022

This editorial comments on an important study by Williams and colleagues. Their study provides direction for future research and for the next steps in clinical cancer care.
DFT Study of the BH4− Hydrolysis on Au(111) Surface
Authors: Raju Karimadom Basil , Varshney Shalaka , Zidki Tomer , Meyerstein Dan , Kornweitz Haya
Published: April 2022

The mechanism of the catalytic hydrolysis of BH4− on Au(111) as studied by DFT is reported. The results are compared to the analogous process on Ag(111) that was recently reported. It is found that the borohydride species are adsorbed stronger on the Au0‐NP surface than on the Ag0‐NP surface. The electron affinity of the Au is larger than that of Ag. The results indicate that only two steps of hydrolysis are happening on the Au(111) surface and the reaction mechanism differs significantly from that on the Ag(111) surface. These remarkable results were experimentally verified. Upon hydrolysis, only three hydrogens of BH4− are transferred to the Au surface, not all four, and H2 generation is enhanced in the presence of surface H atoms. Thus, it is proposed that the BH4− hydrolysis and reduction mechanisms catalyzed by M0‐NPs depend considerably on the nature of the metal.
Successful endoscopic sclerotherapy with bile duct stenting for a vascular malformation neighboring the duodenal papilla in blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome
Authors: Unoura Shingo , Toya Yosuke , Kasugai Satoshi , Kumei Tomo , Yamazato Masanao , Sasaki Yutaka , Eizuka Makoto , Oizumi Tomofumi , Morishita Toshifumi , Tagane Seiya , Shiohata Takeshi , Yanai Shunichi , Akasaka Manami , Matsumoto Takayuki
Published: April 2022

A 14‐year‐old girl, who had been diagnosed with blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome, was referred to our hospital because of iron deficiency anemia. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a dark and red‐colored vascular malformation occurring just above the duodenal papilla. Because the lesion was regarded as the cause of the anemia, we performed polidocanol injection therapy with bile duct stenting. Since esophagogastroduodenoscopy performed a month later revealed a scarred ulcer, the bile duct stent was removed. She has been under observation as an outpatient without any symptoms.
Pest management in future climates: Warming reduces physical weed management effectiveness
Authors: Keller Joseph A. , Shea Katriona
Published: April 2022

Climate change alters many aspects of weed performance and may also alter the effectiveness of management practices to control pests. Despite this concern, entire categories of widely used management practices, such as physical control, remain understudied in this context. We conducted a field experiment growing the invasive pest musk thistle (Carduus nutans) at ambient and experimentally elevated temperatures. We tested mowing management strategies that varied in the timing of a single mowing event relative to thistles' stem elongation phenology and compared these with an unmowed control. Results from this experiment informed demographic models to project population growth rates for different warming/mowing scenarios. Compared to plants grown under ambient conditions, warmed thistles were more likely to survive the same mowing treatment, flowered earlier in the season, grew to taller heights, and produced more flowering capitula. Proportional reductions in plant height and capitulum production caused by mowing were smaller under warming. Warming did not change the relative ranking of mowing treatments; mowing late in the growing season (2 weeks after individuals first reached a height of 40 cm) was most effective at ambient temperatures and under warming. Warming caused significant increases in projected local population growth rate for all mowing treatments. For invasive musk thistle, warmed individuals outperformed individuals grown at ambient temperatures across all the mowing treatments we considered. Our results suggest that to achieve outcomes comparable to those attainable at today's temperatures, farmers will need to apply supplemental management, possibly including additional mowing effort or alternative practices such as chemical control. We recommend that scientists test management practices under experimental warming, where possible, and that managers monitor ongoing management to identify changes in effectiveness. Information about changes in managed weeds' mortality, fecundity, and phenology can then be used to make informed decisions in future climates.
Does egg carotenoid improve larval quality in Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus)?
Authors: Egeland Torvald Blikra , Egeland Einar Skarstad , Nordeide Jarle Tryti
Published: April 2022

Females in mutually ornamented species are often less conspicuously ornamented than their male conspecifics. It has been hypothesized that offspring quality may decrease if females invest more resources into ornaments at the expense of resources in eggs. An experiment was carried out to test whether natural variation in carotenoid in the eggs from a wild population of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) was associated with survival and growth of their offspring until hatching. Wild Arctic charr were caught at a spawning ground during the spawning period. Eggs from two different females, one female with yellowish carotenoid‐rich eggs and one with paler eggs, were fertilized by sperm from the same male. This was repeated until gametes were collected from 42 females and 21 males, giving a total of 21 groups. After fertilization, the zygotes from each of the two females were reared in four replicated groups. These 168 groups were reared separately until hatching when the surviving larvae were counted and their body length measured. For the two response variables survival and body length at hatching, no effect was demonstrated of any of the predictors (i) amount of carotenoid in the unfertilized eggs, (ii) the mothers' body condition, or (iii) ornament intensity of their red carotenoid‐based abdominal ornament. Thus, this study gives no support for the hypothesis that females investing less carotenoid into their eggs suffer from decreased offspring quality until hatching. This lack of association between female ornament intensity and their fitness is not as expected if female ornaments evolved due to direct sexual selection from males on the more ornamented females (“direct selection hypothesis”).
Joint effect of cognitive decline and walking ability on incidence of wandering behavior in older adults with dementia: A cohort study
Authors: Murata Shunsuke , Takegami Misa , Ogata Soshiro , Ono Rei , Nakatsuka Kiyomasa , Nakaoku Yuriko , Iihara Koji , Hagihara Akihito , Nishimura Kunihiro
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Wandering behavior is one of the most troublesome behavioral disturbances in dementia. Inconsistent associations between physical function and wandering behavior were reported, and the effect of cognitive decline may be different according to walking ability. The purposes of this study are to investigate whether high walking ability is a risk factor for wandering behavior and to investigate the interaction of walking ability and cognitive function with wandering behavior in older adults with dementia.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 3979 elderly adults with dementia. The association of cognitive function and walking ability with incidence of wandering behavior during a 5‐year follow‐up period were examined using a generalized linear model, and relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI) was calculated.

Results

Severe cognitive decline and high walking ability were associated with a higher risk for wandering behavior. Additionally, some joint effects of cognitive decline and walking ability decline were higher than the sum of its individual effects (RERI [95% confidence interval], severe cognitive decline × ‘walk with help’: 1.58 [0.35, 2.81]; severe cognitive decline × ‘independent’: 3.09 [1.05, 5.14]).

Conclusions

Effects of cognitive decline and walking ability on incidence of wandering behavior were observed, and the effects varied depending on their combination.