bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working Capital Management and Corporate Performance of Quoted Consumer Goods Sector in Nigeria: A Panel Data Approach
Authors: Enaibre Felix Ighosewe, , Chinedu Anita Odili,
Published: April 2022

This paper aimed at investigating the impact of working capital management (WCM) on corporate performance of quoted consumer goods sector in Nigeria. Specifically, the paper examined the impact of cash conversion cycle (CCC), current ratio (CUR), quick ratio (QUR), asset turnover ratio (ATR), Average Payment Period (APP), Average Collection Period (ACP), and Inventory Collection period (ICP) on return on asset (ROA) of listed Nigerian Consumer goods sector firms from 2009 to 2018 covering 120 cross-sectional units. To ensure that the findings of the study are reliable, accurate, and valid, the study was further subjected to diagnostic tests using the Lagrange Multiplier Tests for Random Effects, Hausman test, and the cross-sectional dependence test. Accordingly, the Hausman test supports the Random Effect Model (REM) while the cross-sectional dependence test revealed that the variables of each company is unique and are independent of those of other companies in the sample. Findings emanating from the REM confirmed a mixed relationship between WCM and ROA. Specifically, the study found that managers can achieve high profitability if it addresses all inventory management issues since quick ratio and inventory conversion period exerted negative insignificant impact on firm performance. Again, the study found that the current ratio, quick ratio, and asset turnover ratio are the main determinants of corporate performance. Hence, the study concludes that WCM is the most efficient way firms can achieve outstanding success. To this end this paper recommends that if firms in the Nigerian Consumer goods sector firms must achieve their core objective of maximizing high returns and minimizing risk, they must pay full consideration on current ratio, quick ratio, and asset turnover ratio.
Effects of Agricultural Land Use Practices on Soil Organic Carbon Stocks, Total Nitrogen and Available Phosphorous in Smallholder Farms in Embu County, Kenya
Authors: N. Naftaly Osoro, , Gathungu, Geofrey K. , Muraya, Moses M.
Published: April 2022

A study was conducted to determine soil organic carbon stocks (SOCs), total nitrogen (TN) and available phosphorous (AP) changes in agricultural land use practices with a focus on maize and coffee based agricultural systems along Kapingazi river catchment in Embu County. Demarcation was done into four agro-ecological zones (AEZ) following the river downstream; Lower Highland Zone 1 LH1; Upper Midland Zone 1, UM1; Upper Midland Zone 2, UM2; Upper Midland Zone 3, UM3. Soil samples were obtained from two depths of 0-25 cm and 25-50 cm across slope positions. The soil organic carbon stocks were high in LH1 at 58.38 kg/m2 whereas UM3 had least amount at 29.48 kg/m2. The total nitrogen was higher in LH1 at 0.27% while least at UM3 with 0.07%. The LH1 had higher mean amount of available phosphorous at 19.44 ppm and least at UM3. The coffee agricultural system had more available phosphorous in LH1 at 23.75 ppm whereas maize had more in UM1, UM2 and UM3. The soil organic carbon stocks, available phosphorous and total nitrogen decreased across the AEZ. The Farm Foot Slope sampling point had high soil organic carbon stocks with the lowest amounts in the Farm Summit sampling point at both depths. The concentration of total nitrogen in coffee was high in all slope positions, whereas, available phosphorous was higher in maize. Therefore, it is concluded that topography and agriculture land use and management practices influence soil nutrient status.
Contraceptive Usage Status and its Associated Factors among Adolescents in the Kwahu South District, Eastern Region of Ghana
Authors: Akomaning Edwin , Dzantor Edem Kojo , Tettey Etornam Abla , Abangbila Francisca , Mohammed Adam , Eunice Appau-Duah , Dapomaa Asante Emmanuela
Published: April 2022

Unwanted pregnancies account for roughly 30% of all pregnancies in Ghana. Availability of contraceptives and usage is essential to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) 3.7 which calls for universal access to contraception for use by people of all ages by 2030. The study aims to assess contraceptive usage and associated factors among adolescents in the Kwahu South District of the Eastern Region of Ghana.

The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey. Adolescents were drawn using multistage sampling techniques. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were run and results were presented in tables and graphs. The statistically significant p-value was pegged at less than 0.05.

Almost all (97.9%) respondents have heard of contraceptives with the media being the common source of information (52.5%). The male condom (57.6%), oral pills (53.5%) and the female condom (46.9%) were the commonly known contraceptives. The majority (77.1%) knew where to get contraceptives. Common sources of contraceptives included the pharmacy (57.3%) and hospitals (37.2%). Significant differences exist between usage of contraceptives and age(p<0.001), religion (p= 0.042) and having a partner(p<0.001). Age (18 years) (AOR= 3.01, 95%CI (1.17-7.73)) and having a partner (AOR= 0.05, 95%CI (0.02-0.14)) were positively associated with current contraceptive use.

Targeted public health interventions in the form of education and promotion are desirable to create awareness among adolescents who do not know about contraceptives and improve understanding of the safety of other contraceptive methods aside from male condoms and oral pills.
Molecular Identification of Bacillus Species during Spontaneous Fermentation of Lima Bean Flour (Phaseolus lunatus)
Authors: Patrick N’zi Kouadio , Constant Attchelouwa Kouadio , Florent N’guessan Kouadio , Tano Kablan
Published: April 2022

Aims: Bacillus species is used as starter culture to improve quality of the fermented product. Thus, the purpose of this study is to identify Bacillus species during the spontaneous fermentation of Phaseolus lunatus with prospective selection as starter cultures.

Study Design: Spontaneous fermentation of Phaseolus lunatus flour was allowed to proceed at ambient temperature (29±2°C) for three days under anaerobic condition.

Methodology: The Bacillus counts were determined and 100 isolates were identified by PCR and the sequencing of 16S rDNA domain.

Results: In unfermented sample the Bacillus count was 3.14 log CFU/mL. During fermentation the count being between 2.68 and 2.88 log CFU/mL. Based on PCR and the sequencing of 16S rDNA domain, Bacillus isolates were assigned to four species Bacillus sp, Bacillus subtilis, Brevibacillus agri and Bacillus xiamensisis. Bacillus spp, Bacillus subtillis and Bacillus cereus were detected at all the fermentation times. Their frequencies were between 14.29 and 45.83%, 25 and 35.71%, 25 and 50% respectively.

Conclusion: Among these species Bacillus subtillis could be used as starter culture to improve quality of the fermented product.
Expression Assessment of Some Immunity-related Genes in Buffalo Infected with Endometritis
Authors: Othman Othman E. , Taha Dalia A. , Hassan Nagwa A. , Mahfouz Eman R.
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim: Despite the economic importance of buffalo as a main source of milk and meat, only little attention has been directed to its immune and reproductive performance. The early diagnosis of subclinical endometritis may reduce the economic loss of buffalo’s production. The difference in expression profiles of immunity-related genes has an important role in the early detection of subclinical endometritis. This study aimed to assess the expression of five immunity-related genes: TGFBR1, PTGER2, PTGER4, HP and CXCL5 in endometritis-infected buffaloes.

Materials and Methods: Total RNA was extracted from 120 buffalo uterine samples; 60 infected with endometritis and 60 healthy ones. Qt-PCR was performed on cDNA synthesized from extracted RNA using Sybr green and GAPDH as a house-keeping gene.

Results: The results showed the up-regulation of two tested genes; TGFBR1 and CXCL5 in endometritis-infected buffalo compared to healthy animals by 7.9 and 4.3 folds, respectively at a significance level of p<0.05. The other three tested genes; PTGER2, PTGER4 and HP were down-regulated in buffalo during endometritis infection at different levels; PTGER2 and HP (0.6 folds, p<0.05) and PTGER4 (0.4 fold, p= 0.2).

Conclusions: It is to be concluded that the assessment of expression of inflammation-related immunity genes may have an effective role on the detection of endometritis infection in buffalo during its early stages and this early diagnosis can reduce the economic loss of buffalo production and reproduction.
Knowledge of Occupational Hazards and Safety Practice among Abattoir Workers of Katagum Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Maigoro Aliyu Muhammad , Usman Usman Sunusi , Ibrahim Abdullahi Adam , Kabir Adamu Mohammed
Published: April 2022

Aim: This study investigated the knowledge of occupational hazard and safety practice, and also determines the relationship between knowledge of occupational hazard and safety practice among abattoir workers in Katagum LGA, Bauchi State, Nigeria.

Study Design: A descriptive cross sectional study design was used for the study.

Methodology: A semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 165 eligible respondents comprising all people working in the selected abattoirs in Katagum LGA. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select the participants for the study. Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used to determine the relationship between knowledge of occupational hazards and safety practice.

Results: The results show that 55(36.2%) of the respondents were between the ages of 30-39, majority of the respondents 148(97.4%) were male. 146 (96.0%) of the abattoir workers revealed that there are hazards associated with their work. Cut/injuries were known by most of the respondents 128(84.2%). About one-fifth 18 (11.8%) of the respondents have poor knowledge, 75 (49.3%) have fair knowledge, while 59 (38.8%) have good knowledge of occupational hazards. About 35.5% of the respondents used Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while performing their duty. The statistical computation for Pearson correlation coefficient (with r value of 0.138) shows that there is positive relationship between knowledge of occupational hazard and safety practice.

Conclusion: In conclusion, majority of the respondents reported that there are hazards associated with their work, have good knowledge of occupational hazards, and high level of personal hygiene practice. But the use of PPE (especially apron, face mask, hand gloves and safety boots) was very low among the respondents. Thus, we recommended that the use of PPE and other preventive measures should be strongly encouraged as well as routine medical examination/checkup of abattoir workers in Katagum LGA of Bauchi State. Ante mortem and post mortem inspection on all animals should be carry-out before and after slaughter.
Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Chemical and Biological Properties under Dolichos Bean Cultivation
Authors: Tomar Anshunam , Saikia Jumi
Published: April 2022

A field experiment to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on soil chemical and biological properties under dolichos bean cultivation was conducted during the months of June-October 2020, at the Experimental Farm, Department of Horticulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-13. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with seven treatments which were replicated three times. The results revealed that the maximum available nitrogen (372 kg ha-1), phosphorus (47.13 kg ha-1), potassium (184.67 kg ha-1) were observed in T5 (25 % RD of NPK + Enriched Vermicompost @ 2t ha-1) and organic carbon (0.98 %) also found highest in T5 (25 % RD of NPK + Enriched Vermicompost @ 2t ha-1). The microbial population, soil enzymes activity i.e dehydrogenase (DH) activity (122.20 µg TPF g-1 soil 24 hr-1), phosphomonoesterase activity (50.90 µg p-nitrophenol g-1 soil hr-1) and soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) (240 µg g-1 24hr-1) were observed highest in T5 (25 % RD of NPK + Enriched Vermicompost @ 2t ha-1).
Predictive Factors for the Severity of Procedure-Associated Pain in Infertile Women Undergoing Hysterosalpingography in Bayelsa State, South-South Nigeria
Authors: Oriji P. C. , Kiridi E. K. , Abasi I. J. , Ubom A. E. , Ugwoegbu J. U.
Published: April 2022

Background: Hysterosalpingography is the most commonly used investigative modality for the evaluation of tubal patency. It is cheap, readily available and reliable. However, its main drawback is associated pain.

Objective: To determine the predictive factors for the severity of procedure-associated pain in infertile women undergoing hysterosalpingography.

Materials and Methods: This prospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the infertility clinics and radiology departments of the Federal Medical Centre, Yenagoa and Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital, Okolobiri, both in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, between July, 2021 and February, 2022. Hysterosalpingography was done after written informed consent by the patient. The Visual Analogue Scale and Numerical Rating Scale were used to grade pain levels during and after the procedure, respectively. Data were analysed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions for Windows®, version 25. Results were presented in frequencies and percentages for categorical variables, and mean and standard deviation for continuous variables.                         Student’s t-test was used to compare sample means, and Chi-square, for testing                    associations.

Results: The odds of experiencing pain increased with increasing age (Crude OR = 3.48 – 5.34; p = < 0.05). Women with tertiary level of education were three times more likely to report pain (Crude OR = 3.58; p = 0.029) than those with primary level of education.  Parity (ꭓ2 = 19.85; p – 0.001), type of infertility (ꭓ2 = 5.93; p = 0.015) and duration of infertility (ꭓ2 = 11.08; p = 0.004) had significant relationships with the severity of pain perception. Dysmenorrhoea (Crude OR = 1.99; p = 0.001) was also significantly associated with pain perception. Pain was two times more likely to be experienced by women with abnormal hysterosalpingography findings.

Conclusion: Our study established that the predictors of pain perception in hysterosalpingography were age, level of education, duration of marriage, duration of infertility, parity, number of children, type of infertility, dysmenorrhoea and abnormal findings on hysterosalpingography.
Numerical Investigation of Sloshing Characteristics in Long Moving Vessels with Embedded Concave Rigid-ring Baffle in Gravity Environment
Authors: Adebayo Matthew , A. Dare Ademola , A. O. Salau Tajudeen
Published: April 2022

Flat Rigid–ring Baffle [1] (FRB) is a common slosh suppression device in Long Moving Vessel (LMV) to mitigate against oscillation-induced instability due to sloshing of its content but,  its relative low performance is unacceptable for desirable safety standard thus, necessitating continuous efforts to investigate other baffle configurations. Investigation of Concave Baffles of varying geometries was carried out and analysed with the ANSYS/CFX [2] and the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Results were post-processed with the help of Mat lab [3-5] in a gravity milieu. This work was therefore designed to study the sloshing characteristics of Water-Carrying Cylindrical (WCC) tank equipped with three baffles. Model governing equations based on conservation of mass and momentum were developed and solved using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) technique. The model was used to evaluate Damping Ratio (DR) from Mile's equation [1] at 72, 66 and 59 percent standard positions, in a 75 percent filled WCC tank with slenderness ratio of 1.5 excited at a frequency of 2 Hz. The investigated baffles were Concave Rigid-ring Baffle-1 (CARB1) 0.02 m pitch, Concave Rigid-ring Baffle-2 (CARB2) 0.04 m pitch and Flat Rigid-ring Baffle, FRB (control). Data were presented in term of non dimensional DR and as the main performance index. Numerical results were obtained and compared with FRB results also obtained numerically. The results showed that, the concave baffles exhibited [better damping characteristics at 72 and 59 percent water-filled positions of the cylinder which mostly the critical states hence, Concave-Rigid-ring Baffle have better damping effectiveness than Flat-Rigid-ring Baffle.
Medical Education and EdTech Integration: Medical Educators’ Experience and Reflections on the Anatomage Table
Authors: Owolabi Joshua , Ineza Darlene , Bekele Abebe
Published: April 2022

This article presents the experience and reflections of medical educators following the introduction of the Anatomage table, an educational technology or EdTech to our medical school for the purpose of supporting the teaching of anatomy and related basic medical sciences to medical school. It was considered a critical need by the stakeholders including the institutional and departmental leadership to consider the teachers' experiences following initial exposure and use, as well as their insights and reflections. The approach was a mixed method, whereby the teachers responded to a 12-question structured and validated questionnaire and upon written informed consent, participated in a focus group discussion [FGD] activity. The questionnaire provided vital data on insights, experiences and reflections of the medical educators following their exposure to the EdTech while the FGD provided qualitative information on similar themes. The questionnaire data is presented as charts or figures while the FGD is thematically organized and summarized. Medical educators generally agreed that the EdTech is a quality addition to the medical school as it could improve the delivery of teaching and training to medical students. They believed that training the trainers would significantly optimize its benefit. They also posited that providing learners with quality time and access to use the Anatomage table in a self-directed manner would better enhance their learning experiences. The medical educators would also think that while the Anatomage table aligns with the preferences of the current generation of medical students who are largely tech savvy and EdTech inclined, the use should be structured, such as using a protocol to guide and facilitate learning, and to measure or assess performances with its use. They would also think that it is versatile enough to support medical education and training in various contexts of curricular structures. Finally, the teachers would take a position that the EdTech should complement cadaveric dissections, and not totally replace it.
Factors Affecting Age of Onset of Menopause
Authors: Memon Erum , Jitendra Shahani Mala , Ullah Khan Zia , Liaquat Farah , Iqbal Asma , Khalid Sumiyya
Published: April 2022

Background: Menopause is a natural process, occurring in women that marks the end of fertility among women. It is characterized by a cessation of menstruation, decline in ovarian activity and disturbances in periods along with vaginal dryness, mood swings and hot flashes. The age of menopause ranges in between 40 to 55 years. Although there are many factors affecting the age of menopause onset like metabolic syndrome, cytotoxic drugs, but there is no general agreement on them.

Objectives: To explore the factors affecting age of onset of menopause among Pakistani women.

Methodology: This cross-sectional-observation study was conducted on 139 women (aged at or above 40 years) presenting to the Outpatient Department of Obstetrics – Gynecology at Jinnah Medical College Hospital, Karachi – Pakistan from Nov 2020 to May 2021. Data was collected using a structured interview-based questionnaire containing inquiries pertaining to basic biodata, sociodemographic details, menstrual history, and probable factors affecting age of onset of menopause. Chi-square test was applied to check the association between the different factors and age of menopause.

Results: The mean age of the participants was found to be 43.23 ± 4.11 SD years, while the mean age of onset of menopause was recorded to be 49.21 ± 3.83 SD years. The associations between the marital status, body mass index, use of OCP and socio-economic factors with age of onset of menopause, were found to be statistically significant.

Conclusion: Menopausal age not only reflects the end of fertility era but also of aging as well. Age of menopause significantly effects physical and psychological health of women and is considered as a very important event in women’s lives. Controllable factors like obesity, tobacco use, use of OCP plays a significant role in age of onset of natural menopause.
Organic Food: The Importance from Public Health Perspective
Authors: Pawar Jayesh , Choudhari Vishnu , Choudhari Ganesh , Wagh Prajakta , More Girish , Ramanathan Vanisree
Published: April 2022

Non organic food and chemical intake has been associated with a variety of infections and disorders, notably cancer, digestive dysfunction, headaches, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), prenatal deformities, a compromised immune system and early mortality. Organic foods are pesticide-free and it is beneficial for overall health. Organic farming initiated 1000 years ago, once mediaeval farmers began cultivating along riverbeds based on natural resources. Organic food and food products are the finest healthy food which can be consumed without causing harm to body, soil nutrients, environment, or biodiversity. This approach quickly is becoming well-known because of its significance and importance from a public health perspective covering 20 to 30 % of India's entire agricultural area. Organic farming is an ideal type of agriculture when compared to chemical-based agriculture, since it reserves integrity of soil and environment while also providing high-quality agricultural products for a healthy lifestyle such as fruits, vegetables, grains, pulses, and other foods. People nowadays are increasingly concerned about the nutritional quality of their diet. There is a need to do more research and analysis to rationalise and justify the value of organic food and food products, which are more nutritious and healthy compared to nonorganic or conventional foods. The comparative aspects of organic vs nonorganic farming along with biodiversity and environmental benefits of organic farming have been focused in this study. The present study also focused on the promotion of organic food consumption and its benefits from a public health perspective in the current scenario. The scope of organic food can be converted into revenue generation for better and healthier tomorrow.
In Situ Gel Drug Delivery System: A Review
Authors: Dhanya K. P. , Siji C. , Jamshiya E. , Nihal P. , Deepthi O.
Published: April 2022

In situ gel forming polymeric formulations are drug delivery systems that are in sol form before being administered to the body, but gel in situ from which the medication is released in a sustained and controlled manner. Temperature modulation, pH alteration, ions present in the site and ultraviolet irradiation are factors that influence gel formation. Gellan gum, alginicacid, xyloglucan, pectin, chitosan, poly (DL-lactic acid), poly (DL-lactide co glycolide), and poly caprolactone are some of the polymers used to make in situ gels. Solvents such as water, dimethyl sulphoxide, N-methyl pyrrolidone, triacetin, and 2-pyrrolidone are utilized for these formulations, depending on the solubility of the polymer. Major routes of administration of In situ gels are oral, ocular, rectal, vaginal, injectable, and intraperitonial. In comparison to conventional drug delivery systems, in situ gel forming polymeric formulations provide various advantages, including sustained and prolonged action. From a manufacturing standpoint, such devices are less complex to produce, resulting in cheaper investment and manufacturing costs.
Assessment of Suicidal Thoughts among the Youth: The Case of Scottish Livingstone Hospital
Authors: Mhaladi P. B. , Maripe K.
Published: April 2022

This is a qualitative study which assessed suicidal ideation among the youth in the Kweneng district of the Republic of Botswana. It adopted the descriptive and exploratory research design following the probability sampling procedures and, the simple random sampling techniques to select a sample of 21 respondents. The respondents were selected based on their knowledge of factors influencing youth’s suicidal ideation and those that contribute to suicidal ideation. It was established that the following factors: mental health problems (depression), behavioral problems (e.g drug and alcohol abuse) personality traits (maladaptive coping skills), and terminal illness and health conditions contributed to youth’s suicidal thoughts. It was further discovered that available services to suicidal clients are not adequate and there is shortage of staff. It was also discovered that the psychosocial interventions were not fully utilized because many clients got to know about them by the time they were admitted. It is recommended that the health policy or guidelines and/or programs should address suicidal problems amongst the youth. Furthermore, future researchers should focus more on existing gaps in service provision and their impacts on suicidal ideation.
Autophagy in plant viral infection
Authors: Yang Meng , Liu Yule
Published: April 2022

Autophagy is a conserved degradation pathway that delivers dysfunctional cellular organelles or other cytosol components to degradative vesicular structures (vacuoles in plants and yeasts, lysosomes in mammals) for degradation and recycling. Viruses are intracellular parasites that hijack their host to live. Research on regulation of the trade‐off between plant cells and viruses has indicated that autophagy is an integral part of the host response to virus infection. Meanwhile, plants have evolved a diverse array of defense responses to counter pathogenic viruses. In this review, we focus on the roles of autophagy in plant virus infection and offer a glimpse of recent advances about how plant viruses evade autophagy or manipulate host autophagy pathways to complete their replication cycle.
Long‐Cycling Sulfide‐Based All‐Solid‐State Batteries Enabled by Electrochemo‐Mechanically Stable Electrodes
Authors: Cao Daxian , Sun Xiao , Li Yejing , Anderson Alexander , Lu Wenquan , Zhu Hongli
Published: April 2022

The anode plays a critical role relating to the energy density in all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASLBs). Silicon (Si) and lithium (Li) metal are two of the most attractive anodes because of their ultrahigh theoretical capacities. However, most investigations focus on Li metal, leaving the great potential of Si underrated. This work investigates the stability, processability, and cost of Si anodes in ASLBs and compares them with Li metal. Moreover, single‐crystal LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 is stabilized with lithium silicate (Li2SiOx) through a scalable sol–gel method. ASLBs with a cell‐level energy density of 285 Wh kg−1 are obtained by sandwiching the Si anode, the thin sulfide solid‐state electrolyte membrane, and the interface stabilized LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2. The full cell delivers a high capacity of 145 mAh g−1 at C/3 and maintains stability for 1000 cycles. This work inspires commercialization of ASLBs on a large scale with exciting manufacturing lines for large‐scale, safe, and economical energy storage.
Reversible and Remote Thermoregulation of a Recyclable DNAzyme/pNIPAM Microgel Catalyst Formed via a Microfluidic Device
Authors: Xu Xinran , He Ping‐Ping , Du Xiaoxue , Guo Weiwei
Published: April 2022

The regulation of the catalytic activities of DNAzymes is of great significance for their biosensing and biomedical applications. Herein, thermoregulation of the catalytic activity of DNAzyme is achieved through the immobilization of DNAzymes into the crosslinked polymeric matrix of poly‐N‐isopropylacrylamide (pNIPAM) microgels prepared with a microfluidic device. At a temperature lower than the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of pNIPAM, the immobilized DNAzymes exhibit lower catalytic performance due to the restricted entry of DNA substrates into the polymeric networks; while at a temperature higher than the LCST, the hydrophilic DNAzyme structures are exposed to exhibit high catalytic activity due to the shrinking of the pNIPAM networks. Results show a more than 60% of increase in catalytic activity by raising the temperature from 29 to 34 °C and reversible regulation of the DNAzyme catalytic activity is achieved by cyclic raising and lowering of the solution temperature. Through a simple heating‐centrifugation process, the DNAzyme/pNIPAM microgels can be recycled for further applications. Moreover, by introducing photothermal MXene nanosheets, the remote control of the catalytic activity of the DNAzyme by near‐infrared light irradiation is achieved. These DNAzyme/pNIPAM microgels as low‐cost, stable, reversible, and recyclable biocatalyst may have potential in biosensing and biomedical applications.
Highly Synergistic Co3+ and Pyridinic‐N‐Rich Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Ultra‐Low Energy‐Driven Effective Hydrogen Production and Urea Oxidation
Authors: Selvam Sathish Panneer , Cho Sungbo
Published: April 2022

Metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived electrocatalysts exhibit enhanced electrochemical water splitting with significant durability. However, they cannot drive the required current density at a lower overpotential (η) compared to other benchmark catalysts. To overcome the lack of efficient catalytic activity, Co3O4‐embedded nitrogen‐doped carbon (NC) is fabricated on NiO nanosheets derived from an in situ synthesized Co MOF with an electrodeposited (Ni(OH)2) layer. The electrocatalyst developed herein comprises many Co3+, Ni3+, and pyridinic‐N‐exposed active centers and exhibits an excellent synergistic effect between the metal oxide–NC–metal oxide, facilitating a highly efficient hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Owing to the highly intimate contact between the electrocatalyst layers, rapid electron transfer occurs and a current density of 10 mA cm‐2 is produced in the HER and OER at η of 73 and 110 mV, respectively, with excellent mass activity and high turnover frequency. However, urea‐assisted water electrolysis achieves current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm‐2 at cell voltages of just 1.31 and 1.49 V, respectively, for the two‐electrode‐based system, with an extremely stable durability of 212 h (1.49 V). Co3O4@NC/NiO ∥ Co3O4@NC/NiO has a considerably better urea electrolysis performance than other benchmark electrocatalysts.
Recent Advances in Bismuth‐Based Solar Cells: Fundamentals, Fabrication, and Optimization Strategies
Authors: He Zhangwei , Gong Yongshuai , Tan Zhan'ao
Published: April 2022

Solar cells are star technologies in the utilization of renewable energy and have experienced tremendous development in the past few decades. Eco‐friendly processing technologies and materials to reduce the negative impacts and extend the lifetime of photovoltaics are becoming a very attractive research area. Bismuth triiodide, with its appropriate structure and suitable optoelectronic properties, has proved to be a low‐toxic and stable material for optoelectronic devices, and the best‐reported power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) are 1.50% for solar cells with BiI3 as photoactive layers and 5.56% for BiI3 based perovskite solar cells. Further developments in film fabrication and morphological control are necessary to improve the PCEs of bismuth‐based solar cells. In this review, the electronic structures and optical properties of bismuth halides materials are introduced to reveal their potential in solar cells. Then, different fabrication techniques including solvent engineering, solvent annealing, thermal engineering, and vapor phase fabrication are discussed. More importantly, the absorber layer optimization strategies and the interface engineering are summarized to improve performance of BiI3 solar cells. In the end, the challenges of BiI3 based solar cells and future research directions are discussed.
Potent Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 Efficacy of COVID‐19 Hyperimmune Globulin from Vaccine‐Immunized Plasma
Authors: Yu Ding , Li Yu‐Feng , Liang Hong , Wu Jun‐Zheng , Hu Yong , Peng Yan , Li Tao‐Jing , Hou Ji‐Feng , Huang Wei‐Jin , Guan Li‐Dong , Han Ren , Xing Yan‐Tao , Zhang Yong , Liu Jia , Feng Lu , Li Chun‐Yan , Liang Xiao‐Long , Ding Ya‐Ling , Zhou Zhi‐Jun , Ji De‐Ming , Wang Fei‐Fei , Yu Jian‐Hong , Deng Kun , Xia Dong‐Mei , Dong De‐Mei , Hu Heng‐Rui , Liu Ya‐Jie , Fu Dao‐Xing , He Yan‐Lin , Zhou Dong‐Bo , Yang Hui‐Chuan , Jia Rui , Ke Chang‐Wen , Du Tao , Xie Yong , Zhou Rong , Li Ce‐Sheng , Wang Man‐Li , Yang Xiao‐Ming
Published: April 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) remains a global public health threat. Hence, more effective and specific antivirals are urgently needed. Here, COVID‐19 hyperimmune globulin (COVID‐HIG), a passive immunotherapy, is prepared from the plasma of healthy donors vaccinated with BBIBP‐CorV (Sinopharm COVID‐19 vaccine). COVID‐HIG shows high‐affinity binding to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) spike (S) protein, the receptor‐binding domain (RBD), the N‐terminal domain of the S protein, and the nucleocapsid protein; and blocks RBD binding to human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (hACE2). Pseudotyped and authentic virus‐based assays show that COVID‐HIG displays broad‐spectrum neutralization effects on a wide variety of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, including D614G, Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Gamma (P.1), Kappa (B.1.617.1), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529) in vitro. However, a significant reduction in the neutralization titer is detected against Beta, Delta, and Omicron variants. Additionally, assessments of the prophylactic and treatment efficacy of COVID‐HIG in an Adv5‐hACE2‐transduced IFNAR−/− mouse model of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection show significantly reduced weight loss, lung viral loads, and lung pathological injury. Moreover, COVID‐HIG exhibits neutralization potency similar to that of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 hyperimmune globulin from pooled convalescent plasma. Overall, the results demonstrate the potential of COVID‐HIG against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and provide reference for subsequent clinical trials.
Genetic Deficiency of MicroRNA‐15a/16‐1 Confers Resistance to Neuropathological Damage and Cognitive Dysfunction in Experimental Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Authors: Zhou Chao , Sun Ping , Xu Yang , Chen Yuang , Huang Yixian , Hamblin Milton H. , Foley Lesley , Hitchens T. Kevin , Li Song , Yin Ke‐Jie
Published: April 2022

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion‐derived brain damage contributes to the progression of vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). Cumulative evidence has shown that microRNAs (miRs) are emerging as novel therapeutic targets for CNS disorders. In this study, it is sought to determine the regulatory role of miR‐15a/16‐1 in VCID. It is found that miR‐15a/16‐1 knockout (KO) mice exhibit less cognitive and sensorimotor deficits following VCID. Genetic deficiency of miR‐15a/16‐1 in VCID mice also mitigate myelin degeneration, axonal injury, and neuronal loss. Mechanistically, miR‐15a/16‐1 binds to the 3’‐UTR of AKT3 and IL‐10RA. Genetic deletion of miR‐15a/16‐1 increases AKT3 and IL‐10RA expression in VCID brains, and intranasal delivery of AKT3 and IL‐10RA siRNA‐loaded nanoparticles partially reduce brain protection and cognitive recovery in miR‐15a/16‐1 KO mice after VCID. In conclusion, the miR‐15a/16‐1‐IL/10RA/AKT3 axis plays a critical role in regulating vascular brain damage and cognitive decline after VCID. Targeting miR‐15a/16‐1 is a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of VCID.
Electron Donor–Acceptor Interface of TPPS/PDI Boosting Charge Transfer for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Yang Jun , Jing Jianfang , Li Wenlu , Zhu Yongfa
Published: April 2022

Charge separation efficiency of photocatalysts is still the key scientific issue for solar‐to‐chemical energy conversion. In this work, an electron donor–acceptor (D‐A) interface with high charge separation between TPPS (tetra(4‐sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin) and PDI (perylene diimide) is successfully constructed for boosting photocatalytic H2 evolution. The TPPS/PDI with D‐A interface shows excellent photocatalytic H2 evolution rate of 546.54 µmol h–1 (30.36 mmol h–1 g–1), which is 9.95 and 9.41 times higher than that of pure TPPS and PDI, respectively. The TPPS/PDI has a markedly stronger internal electric field, which is respectively 3.76 and 3.01 times higher than that of pure PDI and TPPS. The D‐A interface with giant internal electric field efficiently facilitates charge separation and urges TPPS/PDI to have a longer excited state lifetime than single component. The work provides entirely new ideas for designing materials with D‐A interface to realize high photocatalytic activity.
Buried Interface Modification in Perovskite Solar Cells: A Materials Perspective
Authors: Gao Zhi‐Wen , Wang Yong , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: April 2022

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are promising third‐generation solar cells. They exhibit high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and, in theory, can be manufactured with less energy than several more established photovoltaic technologies, particularly solution‐processed PSCs. Various materials have been widely utilized to modify the buried bottom interface to improve the performance and long‐term stability of PSCs. Here, the latest progress in modifying the buried interface to enhance the performance and stability of PSCs is examined from a materials standpoint, which is classified into inorganic salts, the organic molecular and polymer, carbon materials, perovskite‐related materials, and 2D materials. This material perspective is useful in determining the tactics for achieving the theoretical PCE value of PSCs. It also serves as a solid reference of interface adjustment for other layered structure heterojunction devices.
Canopy characterization and nutritive value of stockpiled ‘Floralta’ limpograss
Authors: Abreu Daciele S. , Dubeux José C. B. , Santos Erick R. S. , Queiroz Luana M. D. , Jaramillo David M. , van Cleef Flávia , Garcia Carlos Vela , Longhini Vanessa , DiLorenzo Nicolas , Souza Rayanne T. , Homem Bruno G. C. , Ruiz‐Moreno Martin
Published: April 2022

Limpograss [Hemarthria altissima (Poir.) Stapf and C. E. Hubb.] has been gaining ground in beef cattle production as a stockpiling option. This study evaluated canopy characteristics of stockpiled pastures of limpograss cultivar Floralta over two cool seasons. Treatments included canopy layers (upper third, middle, lower third) and plant fractions (leaf and stem) arranged in a randomized split block design. There were 12 paddocks (blocks) with 1.2 ha each. Response variables included forage mass, canopy height and density, proportion of leaf and stem, and leaf and stem nutritive value within each layer. Forage mass fluctuated throughout the season, varying from 4,410 kg dry matter (DM) ha–1 in December to 7,220 kg DM ha–1 in October. Canopy bulk density was greater in February compared with November and December (290 vs. 145 kg ha–1 cm–1), and similar to October and January (200 kg ha–1 cm–1, on average). The lower canopy layer had the greatest proportion of stem whereas the upper layer had greatest proportion of leaves. Leaf had greater in vitro digestible organic matter (IVDOM) (700 g kg–1) compared with stem (600 g kg–1). Leaf/stem ratio was greater in the upper layer (1.12), but similar between the middle and lower layers (0.4, on average). Leaf crude protein (CP) was greater than stem CP 70 vs. 20 g kg–1), with no differences between stem CP across evaluation dates. Stockpiled limpograss maintained leaf and stem digestibility and can be used as an alternative to reduce feeding costs in North Florida during the cool season.
Sb3+–Er3+‐Codoped Cs2NaInCl6 for Emitting Blue and Short‐Wave Infrared Radiation
Authors: Saikia Sajid , Joshi Aprajita , Arfin Habibul , Badola Shalini , Saha Surajit , Nag Angshuman
Published: April 2022

Cs2NaInCl6 double perovskite is stable, environmentally benign and easy to prepare. But it has a wide band gap (5.1 eV), and therefore, does not show optical and optoelectronic properties in the visible and short‐wave infrared (SWIR) region. Here we introduce such functionalities in Cs2NaInCl6 by codoping Sb3+ (s‐electron doping) and Er3+ (f‐electron doping) ions. Sb3+ doping introduces optically allowed 5s2
5s15p1 electronic absorption at the sub‐band gap level, which then emits blue photoluminescence with ≈93 % quantum yield. But f‐f electronic absorption of Er3+ is parity forbidden. Codoping Sb3+–Er3+, leads to transfer of excitation energy from Sb3+ to Er3+, yielding SWIR emission at 1540 nm. Temperature (6 to 300 K) dependent photoluminescence measurements elucidate the excitation and emission mechanism. A phosphor converted light emitting diode (pc‐LED) fabricated by using the codoped sample emits stable blue and SWIR radiation over prolonged (84 hours) operation at 5.1 V.
Methodologies for soil extraction and conservation analysis of ferns and lycophytes with belowground gametophytes
Authors: Farrar Donald R. , Johnson Cindy L.
Published: April 2022

Premise

Studies of fern and lycophyte gametophyte biology in natural settings can be challenging, but such analyses are critical to understanding the dispersal, ecology, and conservation of these species. It is especially challenging to study species whose gametophytes and early sporophyte stages develop belowground, as is the case for species of the Ophioglossaceae, Psilotaceae, some species of the Schizeaceae (Actinostachys), and some species of the Lycopodiaceae. To study these taxa, gametophytes and young sporophytes must be extracted from the soil.

Methods

In 1989, Mason and Farrar described a methodology for accomplishing the collection of belowground gametophytes and sporophytes using soil centrifugation. Here, we refine this procedure based on subsequent years of experience.

Results

We found that many more sporophytes exist belowground than are represented by aboveground leaves, and that belowground sporophytes can survive indefinitely without production of aboveground leaves. Belowground gametophytes are common in areas where spore‐releasing sporophyte leaves are present. Gametophytes are bisexual with male and female gametangia intermixed. Some species of Botrychium also reproduce asexually belowground through production of gemmae.

Discussion

We conclude that in Botrychium, assessments of population health and structure must include analyses of the belowground plants and their habitat. Conservation management strategies must also include potential changes in the belowground habitat.
Alteration of the fecal microbiota in Chinese children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Xie Xinyan , Li Li , Wu Xiaoqian , Hou Fang , Chen Yanlin , Shi Liuwei , Liu Qi , Zhu Kaiheng , Jiang Qi , Feng Yanan , Xiao Pei , Zhang Jiajia , Gong Jianhua , Song Ranran
Published: April 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with altered gut microbiota. However, there has been little consensus on the altered bacterial species and studies have had small sample sizes. We aimed to identify the taxonomic composition and evaluate the changes in the fecal microbiota in Chinese children with ASD by using a relatively large sample size. We conducted a case–control study of 101 children with ASD and 103 healthy controls in China. Demographic information and fecal samples were collected, and the V3‐V4 hypervariable regions of the bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene were sequenced. The alpha and beta diversities between the two groups were significantly different. After correcting for multiple comparisons, at the phylum level the relative abundances of Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria in the case group were significantly higher than those in the control group. The relative abundance of the Escherichia‐Shigella genus in the case group was significantly higher than that of the control group, and the relative abundance of Blautia and unclassified_f__Lachnospiraceae in the control group were higher than that of the case group. Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States analysis showed that children with ASD may have disturbed functional pathways, such as amino acid metabolism, cofactor and vitamin metabolism, and the AMP‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway. This study revealed the characteristics of the intestinal flora of Chinese children with ASD and provided further evidence of gut microbial dysbiosis in ASD.

Lay Summary

This study characterized the gut microbiota composition of 101 children with ASD and 103 healthy controls in China. The altered gut microbiota may contribute significantly to the risk of ASD, including significant increases in the relative abundances of Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria and Escherichia‐Shigella and significant decrease of Blautia and unclassified_f__Lachnospiraceae. This study provided further evidence of gut microbial dysbiosis in ASD.
In Brettsperrholz eingeklebte Stahlgewindestäbe – Experimente, numerische Simulation und Traglastbestimmung
Authors: Vallée Till , Tannert Thomas
Published: April 2022

Der Holzbau überschreitet derzeit neue Grenzen hinsichtlich Dimensionen und architektonischer Möglichkeiten, wie die weltweit zunehmende Zahl von Hochhäusern zeigt. Ermöglicht wird dies durch hochleistungsfähige Verbindungen, wie z. B. eingeklebte Stäbe (aus Stahl und Faserverbundwerkstoffen), und Holzwerkstoffe, wie z. B. Brettschichtholz (BSH), wo alle Brettlagen parallel verleimt sind, oder Brettsperrholz (BSP), welches aus mehreren, kreuzweise flach aufeinander verleimten Brettlagen besteht. Dieser Beitrag beleuchtet den aktuellen Stand von in BSP eingeklebten Stahlgewindestäben und zeigt eine Übersicht über jüngste experimentelle und numerische Ergebnisse. Es werden die Gemeinsamkeiten, aber auch Unterschiede im Vergleich zu in BSH eingeklebten Stahlstäben aufgezeigt, die sich aufgrund der verschiedenen Orientierung der einzelnen Lagen ergeben. Ein weiterer Schwerpunkt liegt auf der Vorhersage der Traglast, für die derzeit nur sehr wenige Ansätze verfügbar sind.
On the solutions of fluid flow problems with a Chebyshev collocation method using Mathematica
Authors: Acosta‐Zamora Karla P. , Núñez José
Published: April 2022

Fluid flow problems are important in engineering applications like heat exchangers, renewable energy sources, and electromagnetic processing of materials, among other applications. Some examples related to a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) course are explored in this study. A CFD course provides tools for the numerical solution of fluid flows where an analytical cannot be found. Flows can be described by numerically solving the mass, momentum, and energy conservation equations for incompressible fluids. A Chebyshev collocation spectral method has been used to solve the governing equations. A high‐level functional programming language strategy was implemented in Mathematica including readability and adaptability. The programs are built by applying and composing functions, mappings, iterators, and pattern matching. It was noted that students can achieve a better comprehension of the algorithms using this programming approach.