bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurial Mindset among Nigerian University Students: A Study of Ebonyi State University's Entrepreneurship Centre, Abakaliki
Authors: Fabian Anoke Amechi , Uzoamaka Ndubuisi-Okolo Purity
Published: March 2022

The popularity that entrepreneurship gained in the world today is largely due to the positive effects it has on many countries as a catalyst that creates wealth and generates other opportunities. This no doubt has resulted in the calls by the stakeholders in the education sector to instill an entrepreneurial mindset in Nigerian University Students. However, researchers have a divergent opinion regarding the factors responsible for creating an entrepreneurial mindset among Nigerian Students. While some believed that self-development help in creating an entrepreneurial mindset in students, others argued in favour of perception. This study, therefore, set to fill this gap by examining the factors responsible for creating an entrepreneurial mindset in Nigerian University Students. The population was the 720 registered students of Ebonyi State University's Entrepreneurship Centre, Abakaliki. Yamane’s formula (1967) was used to determine a sample size of 257. A questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. T-test was the statistical tool used to analyze the collected data. It was discovered that entrepreneurial perception is more significant in creating an entrepreneurial mindset in Nigerian students than self-development. The study concludes that perception is essential for building an entrepreneurial mindset among Nigerian University Students and recommended among others that more entrepreneurship education curriculum should be developed and taught in Nigerian Universities as an accurate understanding of and good perception about entrepreneurial skills is a key success factor.
Impact of Unemployment on Economic Growth in Nigeria from 1990–2020
Authors: Oshiokpekhai Omolua, Roy , Egbejule Oyinkepreye, Peter
Published: March 2022

This study investigated the impact of unemployment on economic growth in Nigeria from 1990 to 2020. Population rate, unemployment rate and labour force were used as independent variables while Gross domestic product (GDP) as dependent variable. Annual time series data on our targeted variables were obtained from secondary sources including the Central Bank of Nigeria annual statistical bulletin, World Bank development indicators (various years). The Eview9 Statistical Software was employed to analyze the data empirically. The Unit root test shows that Gross domestic product, unemployment rate and labour force variables to be evaluated are all stationary after first deference I(1) while population rate was stationary at level I(0). The data were analyzed using the Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL). From the results of the ARDL estimates it was revealed that among others, unemployment rate impact negatively on GDP but significant only in the long run. Population rate also impacts on gross domestic product but only significant in the short run. Labour force impact positively on Gross domestic product and statistically significant in the short run. The study recommends amongst others that government should create jobs mostly for the real sector, that is agriculture and manufacturing sectors –The Nigerian agricultural sector employs about seventy percent of the population mostly at subsistence level. If the Nigerian government supports this sector by making loans available and affordable for those in the agricultural sector, it would boost agricultural output, increase gross domestic product and decrease unemployment rate in Nigeria.
Effects of Fizzy Drinks on Blood Sugar Level, Sputum and Enteric Bacterial Populations in Healthy Human Beings
Authors: Afolabi O. O. , Adigun M. O. , Okonofua C. C. , Ajibike H. A. , Dosumu E. , Omotade D. P.
Published: March 2022

Fizzy drinks are non-alcoholic beverages typically containing water, sweetener, carbon dioxide, acidulates, flavourings, colourings, chemical preservatives, antioxidants, and/or foaming agents. They are usually characterized by a high C/N ratio and low pH, which allows the growth of specific microbial groups while limiting others. Blood sugar level, sputum, and faecal samples were collected from twenty healthy students (pre and post-fasting) and analyzed microbiologically to determine the effect of the consumption of fizzy drinks on the body’s enteric bacteria population. Samples were processed and cultured using pour plate and streak plate techniques in three selective media consisting of Maconkey agar, Salmonella Shigella agar, and Eosin Methylene Blue agar. Differentiation and isolation of various isolates were based on gram-staining technique after culturing for 24 hours at 37ºC and biochemical reactions using MICROBACT 12A/12B and 24E identification kits. Following consumption of fizzy drinks 35cl for females and 60cl for males, results show there was no significant difference between pre and post fasting blood sugar levels (84.2 and 85.7) and (90.7 and 118.1) mg/dl in males and females respectively. In females, post-consumption blood sugar level was higher (86.6 to 82.0) mg/dl in the Bigi Lemon group compared with lower post-consumption blood sugar level (84.8 to 86.4) mg/dl in Bigi Orange group. Among males, post-consumption blood sugar level was higher in both Coke and Fanta groups (93.6 to 123.8 and 87.8 to 112.4) mg/dl respectively. The average oral microbial load from sputum samples reduced in both males and females (1.90 to 0.93× 105) and (1.52 to 0.44× 105) cfu/g respectively post consumption. Post consumption, sixty-three bacterial isolates comprising eight organisms in sputum with the following percentage prevalence were detected, namely: Micrococcus varians (18.18%), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (3.030%), Micrococcus acidophilus (21.212%), Bacillus macerans (18.18%), Bacillus cereus (9.09%), Staphylococcus aureus (9.09%), Streptococcus pyogenes (3.030%) and Bacillus subtilis (18.18%), while in faecal samples with the following bacteria with the following percentage prevalence were isolated: Staphylococcus aureus (7.94%), Escherichia coli (25.40%), Klebsiella (20.63%), Shigella (17.46%) and Salmonella (28.57%).
A Review on the use of Midazolam as a Co-induction Agent
Authors: Nigam Ankita , Verma Neeta
Published: March 2022

The practice of delivering a small amount of sedative or another anesthetic drug to lessen the dose of induction agent necessary has been known as co-induction. In other terms, employment of two or more medications to generate anaesthesia is referred to as co-induction of anaesthesia [1,2]. As a coinduction agent, various medications have been trailed out. We'll look at the drug midazolam, its pharmacology, and how successful it is as a coinduction agent in this article. Midazolam has been proven to minimize the amount of propofol required to produce anaesthesia by up to 50% without compromising the recovery profile when administered in this fashion [3,4]. We looked at the literature on the drug midazolam and coinduction agents that was available on different platforms such as PubMed, medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. We looked at several articles about midazolam and coinduction agents, as well as articles where midazolam was utilized as a coinduction agent. Prior observational studies and case reports using midazolam as a coinduction agent were mentioned in this article. After studying about midazolam's pharmacology, usage, indications, contraindications, as well as past observational studies and case reports, The substance can be used as a coinduction agent and has a variety of purposes in anaesthesia.
Prevalence of Osteomyelitis in Jaws among the Patients Visiting Private Dental Hospital: An Institutional Study
Authors: Akshayaa L. , Ramani Pratibha
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Osteomyelitis is an inflammatory condition of bone that involves the medullary cavity and periosteum. The prevalence rate of this disease was found predominantly among the males than females with an incidence of 30-39 years. This condition involves one or more facial bones in the head and neck, mainly mandible, frontal bone, cervical spine, maxilla and nasal bones. Various types of osteomyelitis are acute, primary chronic suppurative and secondary chronic and fungal osteomyelitis.

Aim: To assess the prevalence rate of osteomyelitis in jaws among the patients visiting private dental hospitals in chennai.

Materials and Methods: This present study was carried out in a private dental hospital under a university setting, in Chennai. Sample size for the present study includes the patients who were diagnosed with osteomyelitis from Jun 2019 to Feb 2021 which was collected using the Dental hospital management system.  Sample size of the study was found to be n= 5 cases of osteomyelitis in jaws among 5,35,951 patients. The data collected was verified and tabulated in excel and statistically analysed using SPSS software. Chi square test was done to compare the groups (p<0.05) which shows the significance and the results were interpreted.

Results : Among the total patients, 40 % of them were males and 60 % of them were females. It was observed that 60 % of the subjects had acute osteomyelitis, 20 % with chronic suppurative and fungus associated osteomyelitis and found to be more prevalent among the individuals who were aged between 41-50 years. Majority of the females, 40% were highly affected with acute osteomyelitis than males, 20% of them were affected. However, p value less than 0.05 is considered as statistically significant, here the chi square test p value = 0.329, as (p > 0.05 ) it is insignificant.

Conclusion: The prevalence of osteomyelitis has recently decreased in developing countries, as attributed to the improvement in the oral and dental care with standard antibiotic treatment. From the results of our study it is evident that out of 5 cases of osteomyelitis in jaws, the majority of patients 60% were diagnosed with acute osteomyelitis. This shows that there is a reliable prevalence of osteomyelitis in jaws among the patients who are visiting private dental hospitals.
Analysis of Determinants of Neonatal Mortality in Afar and Somalia Regions, Ethiopia
Authors: Regesa Belema Hailu , Senbeto Temesgen , Gobebo Gizachew , Lemesa Reta , Makarla Ravi Kanth , Tadesse Getachew , Lulu Kebede , Bechera Terefa , Daraje Sagni , Galdassa Agassa , Bedane Ketema , Siffir Alemayehu , Olani Jiregna , Teferi Girma , Mossisa Maru , Chimdi Emebet , Degaga Gosa Tesfaye , Woldeyohannes Birhanu , Kefale Bizunesh , Hemba Geribe
Published: March 2022

Background: Children face the highest risk of dying in their first month of life. Ethiopia is one of the sub-Saharan countries with highest newborn deaths. Afar and Somalia regions in Ethiopia are among the regions with high death rates of newborn children. This study aimed to analyse and identify determinants of neonatal mortality in Afar and Somalia regions, Ethiopia. 

Methods: This study used 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data for the analysis. The multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify the significant determinants of neonatal mortality. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval and p-value < 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression model was reported to declare the statistical significance and strength of association between neonatal mortality and determinants.

Results: A total of 2567 newborn children were included in this study. Mortality rate among newborns in the first month was 41 per 1000 live births in Afar and Somalia regions. Health facility delivery (AOR: 0.634; 95% CI: 0.409–0.982), being female (AOR: 0.206; 95% CI: 0.073–0.528), multiple births (AOR: 3.958; 95% CI: 2.293–11.208), small size at birth (AOR: 1.208; 95% CI: 1.003–1.728), secondary and above educational level of mothers (AOR: 0.484; 95% CI: 0.294–0.797) were statistically significant determinants neonatal mortality.

Conclusions: In this study, sex of child, place of delivery, birth type, size at birth, mother’s educational level were found to be statistically significant determinants of neonatal death in Afar and Somalia regions, Ethiopia. Mothers with no education should be given health education and institutional delivery should be encouraged to improve the survival of the neonates in Afar and Somalia regions, Ethiopia.
DNA damage response inhibition‐based combination therapies in cancer treatment: Recent advances and future directions
Authors: Chen Tianen , Tongpeng Suparat , Lu Ziyi , Topatana Win , Juengpanich Sarun , Li Shijie , Hu Jiahao , Cao Jiasheng , Lee Cheeshin , Tian Yitong , Chen Mingyu , Cai Xiujun
Published: March 2022

DNA molecules are subject to various lesions that can be detrimental to the cells. DNA damage response (DDR) pathways encompass a variety of mechanisms that cells employ in response to DNA damage. While DDR promotes genomic stability in normal cells, it also protects cancer cells from DNA lesions, particularly against exogenous DNA‐damaging agents. Therefore, DDR pathways can be exploited to account for resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy and have the potential to be targeted in cancer treatment. Apart from the poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors used in BRCA‐mutant cancers, other DDR inhibitors are being developed and tested in clinical trials. Based on the synthetic lethality theory, combination therapies utilizing DDR inhibitors have been explored and are currently undergoing clinical trials, with promising results in cancer treatment. Combination therapies typically employ a DDR inhibitor to sensitize cancer cells to traditional chemotherapeutic agents, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and even PARP inhibitors. Herein, we focus on recent advances in DDR inhibitor‐based combination therapies other than PARP inhibitors, explore the advantages and disadvantages of the strategies, and discuss the current challenges and future perspectives.
The Role of Immunity in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: McManus Róisín M.
Published: March 2022

With the increase in the aging population, age‐related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease will become ever more prevalent in society. As there is no cure for dementia and extremely limited therapeutic options, researchers are examining the mechanisms that contribute to the progression of cognitive decline in hopes of developing better therapies and even an effective, long‐lasting treatment for this devastating condition. This review will provide an updated perspective on the role of immunity in triggering the changes that lead to the development of dementia. It will detail the latest findings on Aβ‐ and tau‐induced microglial activation, including the role of the inflammasome. The contribution of the adaptive immune system, specifically T cells, will be discussed. Finally, whether the innate and adaptive immune system can be modulated to protect against dementia will be examined, along with an assessment of the prospective candidates for these that are currently in clinical trials.
Influences of Native Oxide on the Properties of Ultrathin Al2O3‐Interfaced Si/GaAs Heterojunctions
Authors: Hasan Md Nazmul , Zheng Yixiong , Lai Junyu , Swinnich Edward , Licata Olivia Grace , Baboli Mohadeseh A. , Mazumder Baishakhi , Mohseni Parsian K. , Seo Jung‐Hun
Published: March 2022

The structure property of non‐ideal Si/GaAs heterostructures that are integrated with the ultra‐thin oxide (UO) tunneling interfacial layer is systematically investigated. Si nanomembranes (NMs) are oxidized in different time periods prior to the hetero‐integration process to create the non‐ideal single‐side passivated Si/GaAs heterostructure. The atomic‐level oxygen distribution and the degree of oxygen content in Si NM and GaAs are carefully investigated using atom probe tomography (APT) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to trace changes in the chemical composition and reactional mechanism across the UO interface when the surface of Si NM is exposed to air for different periods of time. The negatively induced charges at the UO layer cause oxygen diffusion to the GaAs layer and form the unwanted GaAs oxide layer. This native oxide stack noticeably degrades the thermal properties of the Si/GaAs heterostructure as Si NMs become more oxidized. This study reveals that the poor surface passivation on one side of the heterointerface leads to a both‐side oxidation, thus severely deteriorating the transport properties across the heterojunction formed with the UO layer.
Biomorphic CdS/Cd Photocatalyst Derived from Butterfly Wing for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhong Guihao , Liu Dingxin
Published: March 2022

Photocatalytic splitting of water into hydrogen has attracted growing concerns as a promising strategy for the development of clean and renewable energy sources. Fabricating novel photocatalysts with high H2 evolution rate and good cyclic stability is extremely vital for practical applications. Herein, a novel CdS/Cd2SO4(OH)2 composite derived from cadmium nitrate doped Cd‐MOF is deposited on the surface of butterfly wings with reticular hierarchical structure for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction. The combination of unique hierarchical structure and MOF‐derived CdS nanoparticles endows them with strong light absorbability, small band gap, and superior photogenerated charges separation efficiency, leading to excellent photocatalytic efficiency. Furthermore, in‐depth measurements reveal the reduction of Cd2SO4(OH)2 to Cd on the surface of CdS particle during the photocatalytic process. The obtained Cd metal can act as the electron trap to improve the charge separation efficiency and further promote the hydrogen production performance. As a result, the MOF‐derived CdS/Cd2SO4(OH)2 and final CdS/Cd systems with reticular hierarchical structure exhibit significantly enhanced hydrogen production performance compared with CdS/Cd2SO4(OH)2 powder and MOF‐derived CdS nanoparticles under visible light irradiation. It is expected that this synthetic approach can be used to fabricate other composite photocatalyst materials with reticular hierarchical structure for efficient water splitting to hydrogen.
Multifunctional Liquid Crystal Smart Glass with Light Field Shaping, Dimming, and Scattering Control
Authors: Chang Li-Min , Lin Kuan-Wu , Tseng Heng-Yi , Li Cheng-Chang , Guo Duan-Yi , Jau Hung-Chang , Wang Chun-Ta , Lin Tsung-Hsien
Published: March 2022

Glass with multiple light control functions has received considerable attention in recent years. This study demonstrates a multifunctional smart glass composed of hybrid‐aligned ion‐doped nematic liquid crystals (LCs). In the absence of an applied electric field, the hybrid aligned LC is transparent and can be used for light field shaping. The transmittance of the glass can be limited to less than 2% with a 1D oblique viewing angle of >50°. In addition, by varying the frequency and strength of the electric field applied to the device, tinted and scattering states can be achieved with polarization rotation and the electrohydrodynamic effect, respectively. The nonscattering tinted state can control transmittance in the range from 38% to 0.2%. The scattering state provides a 99% high‐haze performance. These results demonstrate that the proposed smart glass can be used for meeting the novel requirements of the next generation of green and smart buildings and vehicles.
A Universal Polyiodide Regulation Using Quaternization Engineering toward High Value‐Added and Ultra‐Stable Zinc‐Iodine Batteries
Authors: Zhang Leiqian , Zhang Mingjie , Guo Hele , Tian Zhihong , Ge Lingfeng , He Guanjie , Huang Jiajia , Wang Jingtao , Liu Tianxi , Parkin Ivan P. , Lai Feili
Published: March 2022

The development of aqueous rechargeable zinc‐iodine (Zn‐I2) batteries is still plagued by the polyiodide shuttle issue, which frequently causes batteries to have inadequate cycle lifetimes. In this study, quaternization engineering based on the concept of “electric double layer” is developed on a commercial acrylic fiber skeleton ($1.55–1.7 kg−1) to precisely constrain the polyiodide and enhance the cycling durability of Zn‐I2 batteries. Consequently, a high‐rate (1 C–146.1 mAh g−1, 10 C–133.8 mAh g−1) as well as, ultra‐stable (2000 cycles at 20 C with 97.24% capacity retention) polymer‐based Zn‐I2 battery is reported. These traits are derived from the strong electrostatic interaction generated by quaternization engineering, which significantly eliminates the polyiodide shuttle issue and simultaneously realizes peculiar solution‐based iodine chemistry (I−/I3−) in Zn‐I2 batteries. The quaternization strategy also presents high practicability, reliability, and extensibility in various complicated environments. In particular, cutting‐edge Zn‐I2 batteries based on the concept of derivative material (commercially available quaternized resin) demonstrate ≈100% capacity retention over 17 000 cycles at 20 C. This work provides a general and fresh insight into the design and development of large‐scale, low‐cost, and high‐performance zinc‐iodine batteries, as well as, other novel iodine storage systems.
Gas phase hydrodynamics in a surface‐aerated tank with a long‐short blades agitator
Authors: Wu Yongjun , Wang Jian , You Pan , Luo Peicheng
Published: March 2022

This work aims to study the gas phase hydrodynamics in a stirred tank with a surface‐aerated long‐short blades agitator by the Eulerian–Eulerian approach coupled with population balance model. Predicted local gas holdup and bubble size distribution agree well with those measured by a conductivity probe technique. The predictions demonstrate that the pressure depression in the center is the main driving force for gas suction and the downward flow carries the bubbles down to redistribute in the whole tank. The gas phase has higher gas holdup with large bubble size in the upper part and lower gas holdup but with small bubble size in the lower part of the tank. The predicted liquid‐phase mass transfer coefficients agree well with our previous experimental results and just depend on the power consumption per unit volume when the aspect ratio of the liquid height to the tank diameter varies from 1.1 to 2.0.
Plasticity in floral longevity and sex‐phase duration of Lobelia siphilitica in response to simulated pollinator declines
Authors: Lee Kiana J. , Caruso Christina M.
Published: March 2022

Premise

Pollinator declines can reduce the quantity and quality of pollination services, resulting in less pollen deposited on flowers and lower seed production by plants. In response to these reductions, plant species that cannot autonomously self‐pollinate and thus are dependent on pollinators to set seed could plastically adjust their floral traits. Such plasticity could increase the opportunity for outcross pollination directly, as well as indirectly by affecting inflorescence traits.

Methods

To test whether plants can respond to pollinator declines by plastically adjusting their floral traits, we simulated declines by experimentally reducing pollinator access to Lobelia siphilitica plants and measuring two traits of early‐ and late‐season flowers: (1) floral longevity; and (2) sex‐phase duration. To test whether plasticity in these floral traits affected inflorescence traits, we measured daily display size and phenotypic gender.

Results

We found that experimentally reducing pollination did not affect female‐phase duration, but did extend the male‐phase duration of early‐season flowers by 13% and the longevity of late‐season flowers by 12.8%. However, plants with an extended male phase did not have a more male‐biased phenotypic gender, and plants with an extended floral longevity did not have a larger daily display.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that plants can respond to pollinator declines by plastically adjusting both the longevity and sex‐phase duration of their flowers. If this plasticity increases the opportunity for outcross pollination, then it could be one mechanism by which pollinator‐dependent plant species maintain seed production as pollinators decline.
Oxidase‐Type C−H/C−H Coupling Using an Isoquinoline‐Derived Organic Photocatalyst
Authors: Zhang Lei , Pfund Björn , Wenger Oliver S. , Hu Xile
Published: March 2022

Oxidase‐type oxidation is an attractive strategy in organic synthesis due to the use of O2 as the terminal oxidant. Organic photocatalysis can effect metal‐free oxidase chemistry. Nevertheless, current methods are limited in reaction scope, possibly due to the lack of suitable photocatalysts. Here we report an isoquinoline‐derived diaryl ketone‐type photocatalyst, which has much enhanced absorption of blue and visible light compared to conventional diaryl ketones. This photocatalyst enables dehydrogenative cross‐coupling of heteroarenes with unactivated and activated alkanes as well as aldehydes using air as the oxidant. A wide range of heterocycles with various functional groups are suitable substrates. Transient absorption and excited‐state quenching experiments point to an unconventional mechanism that involves an excited state “self‐quenching” process to generate the N‐radical cation form of the sensitizer, which subsequently abstracts a hydrogen atom from the alkane substrate to yield a reactive alkyl radical.
Electrochemically Controlled Switchable Copolymerization of Lactide, Carbon Dioxide, and Epoxides
Authors: Huang Yuezhou , Hu Chenyang , Pang Xuan , Zhou Yanchuan , Duan Ranlong , Sun Zhiqiang , Chen Xuesi
Published: March 2022

Electrochemical redox‐control is an emerging strategy for the regulation of polymerization process without the addition of external oxidants and reductants, which enables the control over composition, microstructure and properties of the polymer products. In this paper, based on the chemical selectivity of heterometallic Salen‐Co‐Mn complexes of different valences, an electrochemically switchable strategy was developed for the copolymerization of lactide (LA), CO2 and epoxides. The switchable redox reactions endowed this system with the capability to easily synthesize a multi‐block copolymer of polylactide (PLA) and polycarbonate (PC). Moreover, the multi‐block copolymer could be further modified by introducing various monomers with different microstructures and functional groups.
K3SbS4 as a Potassium Superionic Conductor with Low Activation Energy for K–S Batteries
Authors: Shao Jieren , Zheng Jingfeng , Qin Lei , Zhang Songwei , Ren Yang , Wu Yiying
Published: March 2022

Solid‐state K‐ion conducting electrolytes are key elements to address the current problems in K secondary batteries. Here, we report a sulfide‐based K‐ion conductor K3SbS4 with a low‐activation energy of 0.27 eV. W‐doped K3−xSb1−xWxS4 (x=0.04, 0.06, 0.08, 0.10 and 0.12) compounds were also explored for increasing vacancy concentrations and improving ionic conductivity. Among them, K2.92Sb0.92W0.08S4 exhibits the highest conductivity of 1.4×10−4 S cm−1 at 40 °C, which is among the best reported potassium‐ion conductors at ambient temperature. In addition, K2.92Sb0.92W0.08S4 is electrochemically stable with long‐chained potassium polysulfide of K2Sx. A room‐temperature solid potassium–sulfur (K−S) battery system has therefore been successfully demonstrated, which is the first K−S battery prototype using non‐commercial inorganic‐based electrolyte to block the polysulfide shuttle.
Combination of Knoevenagel Polycondensation and Water‐Assisted Dynamic Michael‐Addition‐Elimination for the Synthesis of Vinylene‐Linked 2D Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Xu Shunqi , Liao Zhongquan , Dianat Arezoo , Park Sang‐Wook , Addicoat Matthew A. , Fu Yubin , Pastoetter Dominik L. , Fabozzi Filippo Giovanni , Liu Yannan , Cuniberti Gianaurelio , Richter Marcus , Hecht Stefan , Feng Xinliang
Published: March 2022

Vinylene‐linked two‐dimensional conjugated covalent organic frameworks (V‐2D‐COFs), belonging to the class of two‐dimensional conjugated polymers, have attracted increasing attention due to their extended π‐conjugation over the 2D backbones associated with high chemical stability. The Knoevenagel polycondensation has been demonstrated as a robust synthetic method to provide cyano (CN)‐substituted V‐2D‐COFs with unique optoelectronic, magnetic, and redox properties. Despite the successful synthesis, it remains elusive for the relevant polymerization mechanism, which leads to relatively low crystallinity and poor reproducibility. In this work, we demonstrate the novel synthesis of CN‐substituted V‐2D‐COFs via the combination of Knoevenagel polycondensation and water‐assisted dynamic Michael‐addition‐elimination, abbreviated asKMAEpolymerization. The existence of C=C bond exchange between two diphenylacrylonitriles (M1andM6) is firstly confirmed via in situ high‐temperature NMR spectroscopy study of model reactions. Notably, the intermediateM4synthesized via Michael‐addition can proceed the Michael‐elimination quantitatively, leading to an efficient C=C bond exchange, unambiguously confirming the dynamic nature of Michael‐addition‐elimination. Furthermore, the addition of water can significantly promote the reaction rate of Michael‐addition‐elimination for highly efficient C=C bond exchange within 5 mins. As a result, theKMAEpolymerization provides a highly efficient strategy for the synthesis of CN‐substituted V‐2D‐COFs with high crystallinity, as demonstrated by four examples of V‐2D‐COF‐TFPB‐PDAN, V‐2D‐COF‐TFPT‐PDAN, V‐2D‐COF‐TFPB‐BDAN, and V‐2D‐COF‐HATN‐BDAN, based on the simulated and experimental powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns as well as N2‐adsorption–desorption measurements. Moreover, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) analysis shows crystalline domain sizes ranging from 20 to 100 nm for the newly synthesized V‐2D‐COFs.
Free access to scientific literature and its influence on the publishing activity in developing countries: The effect ofSci‐Hubin the field of mathematics
Authors: Buehling Kilian , Geissler Matthias , Strecker Dorothea
Published: March 2022

This paper investigates whether free access to scientific literature increases the participation of under‐represented groups in scientific discourse. To this end, we aggregate and match data tracing access to Sci‐Hub, a widely used black open access (OA) repository orshadow library, and publication data from the Web of Science (WoS). We treat the emergence of Sci‐Hub as an exogenous event granting relatively unrestricted access to publications, which are otherwise hidden behind a paywall. We analyze changes in the publication count of researchers from developing countries in a given journal as a proxy for general participation in scientific discourse. Our results indicate that in the exemplary field of mathematics, free access to academic knowledge is likely to improve the representation of authors from developing countries in international journals. Assuming the desirability of greater international diversity in science (e.g., to generate more original work, reproduce empirical findings in different settings, or shift the research focus toward topics that are overlooked by researchers from more developed countries), our findings lend evidence to the claim of the OA movement that scientific knowledge should befreeand widely distributed.
Light‐activatable multifunctional paclitaxel nanoprodrug for synergistic chemo‐photodynamic therapy in liver cancer
Authors: Zhu Hanzhang , Zhou Weijiang , Wan Yafeng , Lu Jun , Ge Ke , Jia Changku
Published: March 2022

Paclitaxel (Ptx) is widely utilized to treat liver cancer, and the treatment benefit of reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐responsive Ptx nanoprodrug is investigated in this study. The one‐step nano‐precipitation method was utilized to self‐assembly DSPE‐PEG2000‐thioketal linker (TK)‐Ptx with pyropheophorbide acid nanoparticles (PPa NPs) to form PPa/Ptx NPs. Dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy were used for characterization, and 2′‐7′dichlorofluorescin diacetate staining was utilized for intracellular ROS detection. HepG2 cells viability and tumor growth rate of HepG2 bearing mice were assayed. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, proliferating cell nuclear antigen detection, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling assay were utilized for histology assessment. PPa/Ptx NPs incubation with light irradiation showed superior cytotoxicity to HepG2 cells with increased intracellular ROS production than PPa/Ptx NPs incubation without light irradiation or PPa NPs incubation with light irradiation. At the same time, PPa/Ptx NPs with light irradiation could significantly decrease the tumor growth in vivo as indicated by diminished tumor volume with the largest necrotic area, the highest rate of apoptotic cells, and the least proliferating cells. PPa/Ptx NPs show synergistic chemo‐photodynamic characteristics, which could be considered as a promising treatment option for liver cancer.
Molecular dynamics study on lithium‐ion transport in PEO branched nanopores with PYR14TFSI ionic liquid
Authors: Kim Seulwoo , Lee Minhwan , Park Chanui , Park Anseong , Kwon Sangwoo , Cho JunBeom , Kim Sebin , Rho Seunghyok , Lee Won Bo
Published: March 2022

Lithium ion transport in a poly‐(ethylene oxide) (PEO) branched nanopore filled with a solution of [lithium][bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide]/[1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium][bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide] (LiTFSI/PYR14TFSI) was investigated by molecular dynamics using many‐body polarizable force field. The structural and dynamic properties of lithium ions in the nanopores with different sizes and ratios of ions to PEO chains were examined. The first coordination shell of the lithium ions had a lower intensity in the longitudinal direction than in the radial direction. Cluster analysis of [Lix(TFSI)n]−(n−x)showed the absence of large lithium clusters (x ≥ 2) as a result of the enhanced suppression of monodentate structures compared with binary electrolytes (i.e., LiTFSI/PYR14TFSI without PEO chains). The emergence of [Li(TFSI)2]−and its relatively small hydrodynamic radius facilitated rapid dynamics compared with binary electrolytes. The diffusion coefficients and ionic conductivities of the lithium ions in the longitudinal direction increased with an increase in the ratio of the ions to PEO chains and a decrease in the pore size. It was noted that the lithium‐ion transport was mainly governed by structural diffusion based on a shorter residual time for anions compared with binary electrolytes. In addition, single ion trajectory analysis was performed and more frequent anion exchanges were observed when PEO chains were introduced.
Virtual reality as a didactic resource from the perspective of engineering teachers
Authors: Vergara Diego , Antón‐Sancho Álvaro , Dávila Lilián P. , Fernández‐Arias Pablo
Published: March 2022

This paper analyzes the assessment of engineering professors of different nationalities and universities regarding the use of virtual reality (VR) technologies in the classroom. In particular, the existence of gaps in these evaluations by ownership (private or public) of the university where each professor teaches is analyzed, both within the complete sample of participants and within the subsets formed when they are differentiated by gender, age, and time of teaching experience. For this purpose, a questionnaire has been designed and validated with 22 inquiries that have been dispersed in six scales, corresponding to six different dimensions that affect the didactic use of VR. The questionnaire has been distributed to a set of 279 university professors from different Engineering schools and countries. The results, which have been analyzed quantitatively, both descriptive and inferential, indicate that engineering teachers give high evaluations to VR as a didactic tool, but show a certain lack of knowledge and specific training regarding its use. Furthermore, there is a gap between private and public universities, where private university professors express overall higher evaluations of VR than public university professors.
Carbonate‐Based Fluorescent Chemical Tool for Uncovering Carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) Activity Variations in Live Cells
Authors: Singh Anchal , Gao Mingze , Karns Carolyn J. , Spidle Taylor P. , Beck Michael W.
Published: March 2022

Carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) plays a key role in the metabolism of endogenous biomolecules and xenobiotics including a variety of pharmaceuticals. Despite the established importance of CES1 in drug metabolism, methods to study factors that can vary CES1 activity are limited with only a few suitable for use in live cells. Herein, we report the development of FCP1, a new CES1 specific fluorescent probe with a unique carbonate substrate constructed from commercially available reagents. We show that FCP‐1 can specifically report on endogenous CES1 activity with a robust fluorescence response in live HepG2 cells through studies with inhibitors and genetic knockdowns. Subsequently, we deployed FCP‐1 to develop a live cell fluorescence microscopy‐based approach to identify activity differences between CES1 isoforms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first application of a fluorescent probe to measure the activity of CES1 sequence variants in live cells.
Novel translucent monolithic zirconia fixed restorations in the esthetic zone
Authors: Jurado Carlos Alberto , Villalobos‐Tinoco Jose , Watanabe Hidehiko , Sanchez‐Hernandez Ramon , Tsujimoto Akimasa
Published: March 2022

Novel translucent monolithic zirconia has improved optical properties, and it may fulfill patient's esthetic demands and overcome the chipping risk of bilayer metal‐ceramic restorations. New zirconia's microstructures allow us to mimic natural teeth.
Multiple sebaceous tumors in a 58‐year‐old man with colorectal cancer
Authors: Ben Rejeb Mohamed , Mokni Sana , Ben Rejeb Maha , Abdelmoula Nihed , Sriha Baderedine , Khochteli Habib , Denguezli Mohamed
Published: March 2022

The Muir‐Torre Syndrome is a rare genodermatosis, defined by the occurrence of sebaceous neoplasia and internal malignancies and caused by mutations in the mismatch repair gene. We describe the case of 58‐year‐old man who, over the course of several years, had multiple skin lesions and colon cancer. The syndrome was diagnosed using Sanger sequencing, which allowed us to find the causative mutation.
Triazolium‐based Ionic Liquids Supported on Alumina as Catalysts to Produce 5‐HMF from Fructose
Authors: Araya‐Lopez Claudio , Conejeros Jael , Valdebenito Cristian , Cabezas René , Merlet Gastón , Marco José F. , Abarca Gabriel , Salazar Ricardo , Romero Julio
Published: March 2022

The dehydration of fructose to selectively produce 5‐HMF was catalytically developed in a new type of ionic liquids based on triazoles supported on alumina (Al2O3). The synthesis of triazoles by 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition allows for creating a tailor‐made triazole, that was eventually used to design catalysts based on triazolium‐based ionic liquids. In this work, four catalysts based on triazolium‐ionic liquids supported on Al2O3 were synthesized to produce 5‐HMF from fructose in DMSO as the reaction solvent. According to their molecular structure, the catalysts were tagged as TR1/Al2O3, TR1‐HSO4/Al2O3, TR2/Al2O3, and TR2‐HSO4/Al2O3.
Phosphogypsum Resource Utilization Based on Thermodynamic Analysis
Authors: Yang Jie , Liu Shengyu , Wang Yifan , Huang Yi , Yuxin Sun , Dai Quxiu , Liu Hongpan , Ma Liping
Published: March 2022

The application of FactSage software in phosphogypsum resource utilization is described. Thermodynamic analysis is not only useful for predicting the amount and type of products including gases and solids under various conditions, but also for investigating the thermodynamic properties of related reactions. Statistical data analysis is conducted using the equilib module, reaction module, and phase diagram module of FactSage. The optimal conditions and mechanisms to utilize phosphogypsum for its products CaS, CaO, and CaCO3 are summarized. This comprehensive review on thermodynamic analysis in phosphogypsum resource utilization for the mentioned products is valuable for academicians, scientists, and researchers.
Diastereoselective synthesis of a cyclic diamide‐bridged biphenyl as chiral atropos ligand
Authors: Auras Stefanie , Trapp Oliver
Published: March 2022

Chiral compounds with a 1,2‐diamine structure motif and their derivatives are of great interest in organic chemistry and are broadly used in asymmetric transformations, as chiral auxiliaries, (co)ligands, and ligand core structure. Here, we present a straightforward, diastereoselective synthesis for a diamide‐bridged biaryl ligand. The ring closing reaction of the racemic atropos biphenyl 6,6′‐dimethoxy‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐2,2′‐dicarboxylic acid with (R,R)‐diaminocyclohexane yields the diasteromerically and enantiomerically pure cyclic (Sax,R,R)‐BIPOL, which can be used as a versatile chiral ligand. By NMR spectroscopy, we observed the formation of intermolecular aggregates of the diamide‐bridged BIPOL with anhydrous DMSO‐d6. DFT calculations at the B3LYP/6‐31G* level of theory corroborate the high interconversion barrier for the biaryl axis of ΔGǂ = 148.7 kJ mol−1 and the favoured formation of (Sax,R,R)‐BIPOL as single stereoisomer.
Sex differences in treatment and outcomes of patients with in‐hospital ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Stehli Julia , Dinh Diem , Dagan Misha , Dick Ron , Oxley Stephanie , Brennan Angela , Lefkovits Jeffrey , Duffy Stephen J. , Zaman Sarah
Published: March 2022

Background and Hypothesis

Two cohorts face high mortality after ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI): females and patients with in‐hospital STEMI. The aim of this study was to evaluate sex differences in ischemic times and outcomes of in‐hospital STEMI patients.

Methods

Consecutive STEMI patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were prospectively recruited from 30 hospitals into the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (2013−2018). Sex discrepancies within in‐hospital STEMIs were compared with out‐of‐hospital STEMIs. The primary endpoint was 12‐month all‐cause mortality. Secondary endpoints included symptom‐to‐device (STD) time and 30‐day major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). To investigate the relationship between sex and 12‐month mortality for in‐hospital versus out‐of‐hospital STEMIs, an interaction analysis was included in the multivariable models.

Results

A total of 7493 STEMI patients underwent PCI of which 494 (6.6%) occurred in‐hospital. In‐hospital versus out‐of‐hospital STEMIs comprised 31.9% and 19.9% females, respectively. Female in‐hospital STEMIs were older (69.5 vs. 65.9 years, p = .003) with longer adjusted geometric mean STD times (104.6 vs. 94.3 min, p < .001) than men. Female versus male in‐hospital STEMIs had no difference in 12‐month mortality (27.1% vs. 20.3%, p = .92) and MACE (22.8% vs. 19.3%, p = .87). Female sex was not independently associated with 12‐month mortality for in‐hospital STEMIs which was consistent across the STEMI cohort (OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 0.94–1.70, p = .13).

Conclusions

In‐hospital STEMIs are more frequent in females relative to out‐of‐hospital STEMIs. Despite already being under medical care, females with in‐hospital STEMIs experienced a 10‐min mean excess in STD time compared with males, after adjustment for confounders. Adjusted 12‐month mortality and MACE were similar to males.
The spectrum and prevalence of arrhythmia in different clinical pulmonary hypertension groups in Chinese population
Authors: Xue Lin , Yang Yi‐Cheng , Zhao Qing , Zhao Zhi‐Hui , Zeng Qi‐Xian , Yang Tao , Luo Qin , Liu Bing‐Yang , Ma Xiu‐Ping , Liu Zhi‐Hong , Xiong Chang‐Ming
Published: March 2022

Background

Arrhythmia is not uncommon among pulmonary hypertension (PH) population, and may be associated with disease severity.

Hypothesis

To investigate different spectrums and prevalence of arrhythmias in different clinical PH groups in Chinese population.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with PH between April 15, 2019, and August 2, 2021, were enrolled prospectively. The prevalence of different types of arrhythmias in PH patients were calculated. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine independent predictors for arrhythmia.

Results

One thousand patients were enrolled. The prevalence of any arrhythmia, sinus node dysfunction, sinus tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, other types of atrial tachycardia, atrioventricular block, and ventricular tachycardia is 44.4%, 12.2%, 15.2%, 8.1%, 4.1%, 10.2%, 7.1%, and 2.5%. Logistic regression analyses revealed that older age and larger right ventricle (odds ratio: 1.111 and 1.095, p < .05) were independently related with higher probability of supraventricular arrhythmia; Complicating with coronary artery disease, larger right ventricle, and increased left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (odds ratio: 19.540, 1.106, and 1.085, p < .05) were independently correlated with sinus node dysfunction/atrioventricular block in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Conclusions

Nearly half of PH patients experienced at least one type of arrhythmia. The most common seen arrhythmias were supraventricular arrhythmia, sinus tachycardia, and sinus node dysfunction. Older age and larger right ventricle were independently related with higher probability of supraventricular arrhythmia; Complicating with coronary artery disease, larger right ventricle and increased left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter were independently correlated with higher probability of sinus node dysfunction/atrioventricular block in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Effects of Hepatic Impairment on the Pharmacokinetic Profile and Safety of Lobeglitazone
Authors: Park Jungsin , Kim Choon Ok , Oh Eun Sil , Lee Jung Il , Kim Ja Kyung , Ahn Sang Hoon , Kim Do Young , Kim Seung Up , Kim Beom Kyung , Chung Yong Eun , Kim Se‐mi , Park Min Soo
Published: March 2022

In this open‐label, single‐dose, parallel‐group study, we compared the pharmacokinetic profile and safety of lobeglitazone, a thiazolidinedione acting as an agonist for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors, in patients with hepatic impairment (HI) and healthy matched controls for age, sex, and body weight. After a single oral dose of lobeglitazone (0.5 mg), the lobeglitazone (parent drug) and M7 (major metabolite) plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed and compared between the HI patient groups and healthy matched control groups. The geometric mean ratio (GMR; 90% confidence interval [CI]) for maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 extrapolated to infinity (AUCinf) of lobeglitazone was 1.06 (0.90‐1.24) and 1.07 (0.82‐1.40), respectively, for mild HI vs control A. The GMR (90%CI) of Cmax and AUCinf was 0.70 (0.56‐0.88) and 1.00 (0.72‐1.37), respectively, for moderate HI vs control B. For M7, the GMR (90%CI) of Cmax and AUCinf was 1.09 (0.75‐1.57) and 1.18 (0.71‐1.97), respectively, for mild HI vs control A and 1.50 (0.95‐2.38) and 1.79 (1.06‐3.04), respectively, for moderate HI vs control B. Notable adverse events or tolerability issues were not observed. Lobeglitazone may be safely used in patients with mild or moderate HI without dose adjustment.
Learn what to expect after a complaint to OCR
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: March 2022

Most disability services providers dread learning the Office for Civil Rights is following up on a complaint about their institution. But engaging with OCR can have benefits, said Bree Callahan, Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator at the University of Washington. Callahan, who was previously the Disability Services Director at UW and at two other institutions, spoke at the Association on Higher Education and Disability annual conference.
Plan ahead, collaborate to make sporting events accessible
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: March 2022

“One of my favorite parts about this job is working with Duke athletics. We've got this amazing partnership for providing services for our fans who attend sporting events,” said Leigh Fickling, J.D., M.Ed., M.S., Director of the Disability Management System at Duke University. She discussed how she and her colleagues ensure that sporting events at Duke are accessible.