bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Therapies Potentially Available for Pediatric B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Harker-Murray Paul D. , Pommert Lauren , Barth Matthew J.
Published: August 2020

Burkitt lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma are the most common aggressive pediatric mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (B-NHLs). Despite excellent survival with current chemotherapy regimens, therapy for Burkitt lymphoma and DLBCL has a high incidence of short- and long-term toxicities. Patients who experience relapse generally have a very poor prognosis. Therefore, novel approaches using targeted therapies to reduce toxicities and improve outcomes in the relapse setting are needed. The addition of rituximab, a monoclonal antibody against CD20, to upfront therapy has improved survival outcomes for high-risk patients and may allow decreased total chemotherapy in those with low-risk disease. Antibody–drug conjugates have been combined with chemotherapy in relapsed/refractory (R/R) NHL, and multiple antibody–drug conjugates are in development. Additionally, bispecific T-cell–engaging antibody constructs and autologous CAR T-cells have been successful in the treatment of R/R acute leukemias and are now being applied to R/R B-NHL with some successes. PD-L1 and PD-L2 on tumor cells can be targeted with checkpoint inhibitors, which restore T-cell–mediated immunity and antitumor responses and can be added to conventional chemotherapy and immune-directed therapies to augment responses. Lastly, trials of small molecule inhibitors targeting cell signaling pathways in NHL subtypes are underway. This article reviews many of the targeted therapies under development that could be considered for future trials in R/R pediatric mature B-NHL.
Digital Hunters
Authors: Bejarano Juan Pablo Pacheco
Published: August 2020

As the infrastructure of the internet continues to expand, networked computational surveillance becomes an essential practice of territorial and biopolitical control. The feedback loop between information technologies and global structures of power creates new territorial and biopolitical regimes that sanction the mobility of people and information across Earth. These new ‘techno-territories’ lead to the emergence of new agents of power, who weave virtual and material worlds together in order to exercise control over these new spaces and the bodies that flow through them. This article discusses the emergence of ‘digital hunters’ as both subjects and objects of power through a discursive analysis of AZ: move and get shot (2011-2014) and The Virtual Watchers (2016), two artworks by Joana Moll based on research into crowdsourced surveillance systems at the US/Mexico border. Through a discussion of these projects I trace the emergence of digital hunting as a new practice of territorial control through networked images, as citizens are militarized through participatory architectures of surveillance and social media.
State-funded Support of International Trade in Rights and Licenses
Authors: Hertwig Luise
Published: August 2020

This comparative and transnational study offers critical reflections on translation funding programs in connection with the international rights trade at book fairs. Focusing on the Argentinian and French translation support programs within the scope of their appearance as Guest of Honor at the Frankfurt Book Fair and against the background of the global system of translations, it explores which works, authors, genres and languages predominate in the choice of funding institutions. In addition to its function in cultural diplomacy, translation funding is seen as an effective tool in strengthening cultural diversity. Therefore, this contribution pays special attention to its impact on bibliodiversity, for example by looking at which actors among Argentinian, French and German publishers benefit from these programs.
Experiments with Book Festival People (Real and Imaginary)
Authors: Driscoll Beth , Squires Claire
Published: August 2020

While there are multiple approaches to researching cultural events, predominant academic frames tend to be either sociological or situated within a creative industries discourse. Neither of these approaches have supported sustained engagement with individual, interior experience at book festivals. Creative writers have imaginatively depicted these sites of author-reader interaction, and developing scholarship focuses on autoethnography and the phenomenological. In this article, we extend and materialise these approaches through a series of creative, arts-informed interventions: @AuthorsYurt, a personification on Twitter of the Edinburgh International Book Festival’s green room; Paper Dolls, a series of cut-out-and-dress dolls depicting audience members at a variety of book festivals across Europe, North America and Australia; and ClueButeDo, a satirical reworking of the audience feedback form at a small island crime festival in the UK. Each of the three experiments reveals aspects of personhood at book festivals, engaging with ideas of interiority, individuality, and experientiality, as well as of inclusion and exclusion. In pursuing this aim, we are guided by the autoethnographic slogan, “No Insight Without Inside, No Inside Without Outside” (Nunu Otot).
Placing Elsewhere: Approaches for Physical and Digital Flânerie
Authors: Dann Ying-Lan , Lambrou Liz
Published: August 2020

This paper will discuss approaches and tools for physical and digital flânerie that emerged within an RMIT second- and third-year Interior Design Studio, during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the third week of classes in March 2020, social distancing measures in Australia led us to transpose urban site-based student projects online. Though unforeseen, this was taken as an opportunity for the interior design studio to explicate modes of physical and digital flânerie, via meandering and looking. We discuss teaching and learning experiences within the digital classroom, which we discovered was a dynamic chat-scape of hyperlinks, fragments, displacements and delays. We discuss how we translated aspects of the philosopher Walter Benjamin’s flaneur with reference to The Arcades Project. The paper is structured as a stroll through key discoveries and works and aims to explicate emerging frameworks for digital flânerie within the teaching and learning of interior design.
Social neuroscience: Pendekatan multi-level integratif dalam penelitian psikologi sosial
Authors: Lufityanto Galang
Published: August 2020

Manusia sebagai makhluk biologis yang hidup dalam lingkungan sosial menciptakan kompleksitas dalam kehidupannya. Pendekatan biologis atau sosial yang berdiri sendiri-sendiri sering menyisakan pertanyaan yang belum terjawab. Social Neuroscience merupakan pendekatan mutakhir yang meneliti aspek biologis dalam konteks perilaku sosial manusia. Dengan menggabungkan antara kelebihan pendekatan biologis dan pendekatan sosial, Social Neuroscience berpotensi menjadi suatu metode multi-level integratif yang mampu memahami kompleksitas perilaku manusia secara lebih komprehensif. Artikel ini akan secara lebih lanjut membahas filosofi pendekatan tersebut, beserta ruang lingkup, desain penelitian, teknik pengukuran, validasi, serta aplikasinya di Indonesia. Harapannya, berbekal kemajemukan manusia di Indonesia dan penguasaan metode Social Neuroscience, Indonesia ke depannya akan bisa menjadi salah satu pemain utama dalam perkembangan ilmu Psikologi global.
Adaptasi dan properti psikometrik skala kontrol diri ringkas versi Indonesia
Authors: Arifin Haykal Hafizul , Milla Mirra Noor
Published: August 2020

Studi adaptasi alat ukur ini terdiri dari dua studi yang memiliki tujuan untuk mengadaptasi skala kontrol diri, mengeksplorasi struktur konstruk, dan menguji validitas skala. Dalam studi 1 (N = 411), kami melakukan adaptasi lintas budaya dan pengujian struktur faktor skala kontrol diri. Ditunjukkan bahwa konseptualisasi 10 item skala kontrol diri De Ridder dkk. (2012) yang terdiri dari dua dimensi (inihibisi dan inisiasi) adalah model pengukuran yang cenderung lebih stabil dibandingkan tiga model pengukuran alternatif. Dalam studi 2 (N = 144) kami menguji validitas operasionalisasi skala kontrol diri dengan mengkorelasikannya dengan konstruk-konstruk lain yang sesuai dengan kerangka teoretis. Kami mendemonstrasikan bahwa 10 item skala kontrol diri versi Indonesia memiliki properti psikometrik yang baik (reliabel dan valid). Skala kontrol diri berhasil memprediksi gaya hidup tertib – dapat memprediksi seberapa individual dapat memenuhi fungsi hidupnya sehari-hari. Skala kontrol diri juga memiliki validitas diskriminan, kontrol diri yang diukur dengan skala ini berbeda dengan trait conscientiousness. Skala kontrol diri tidak terkontaminasi dengan kecenderungan responden menunjukkan impresi baik. Studi kami menunjukkan bahwa skala kontrol diri dapat membedakan mereka yang merokok aktif dan non-perokok. Adaptasi skala kontrol diri ringkas versi Indonesia memiliki konsistensi internal yang baik, teruji antar antar studi, dan telah teruji valid.
Use of Interpreter Services Among Farsi-Speaking Podiatric Patients and Adherence to the Pain Management Plan
Authors: Heydari Faraneh , Namvar Damon , Heydari Faraz , Heydari Farahnaz , Van Paulina
Published: August 2020

Background

Patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) encounter many health disparities and inequalities due to the lack of effective communication. The lack of effective communication places patients with LEP at higher risk for noncompliance with the treatment plan. Pain is one of the main common health issues, and patients with LEP have difficulties reporting their pain and adhering to the plan of care due to the lack of effective communication.

Methods

We measured the effectiveness of using a professional interpreter during office visits for Farsi-speaking patients with LEP to improve pain management and adherence with follow-up visits. In this single-sample quasi-experimental study, 16 Farsi-speaking participants with LEP who visited a podiatric medical office for foot pain rated their pain level at the initial visit and after the intervention during the first follow-up visit. Participants were provided with a professional Farsi-speaking interpreter during the visit.

Results

Overall, patients reported lower mean ± SD levels of pain during the follow-up visit (4.19 ± 2.29) than at the initial visit (6.56 ± 2.03). Of all of the participants, 75% attended the follow-up appointment, demonstrating that most of the participants adhered to the plan of care.

Conclusions

The use of a professional interpreter during an office visit for patients with LEP was associated with improved pain management outcomes and increased adherence to the treatment plan.
Relationship of Dome Height of the First Metatarsal Head with Hallux Valgus Angle and Metatarsophalangeal Alignment
Authors: Cicek Esin Derin , Begoglu Feyza Akan , Aktas Ilknur , Ozkan Feyza Unlu
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Hallux valgus (HV) is a progressive foot deformity in which the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint is affected. The relationship between the dome height of the first metatarsal head and the HV deformity has not been studied previously. This study aimed to investigate a possible relation of the dome height of the first metatarsal head with articular alignment and the hallux valgus angle (HVA), which is frequently used to evaluate HV.

Methods

A total of 129 feet of 68 patients were included in the study. Anteroposterior digital radiographic images of the foot taken in a weightbearing, standing position were used to assess the HVA, dome height, and shape of the first metatarsal head and the alignment of the MTP joint. The dome height of the first metatarsal head is the vertical distance from the base to the highest point of the articular surface doming. The alignment was categorized into three groups: aligned, deviated, and subluxated. Patients were assigned into three groups based on the HVA: Normal, Mild HV and Moderate HV.

Results

A statistically significant, positive correlation was found between the HVA and the dome height of the first metatarsal head (r = 0.293, P = 0.001 and P < 0.05). The dome height was significantly lower in the patients with a normal HVA than those with a high HVA (P1 = 0.042, P2 = 0.039 and P < 0.05, respectively). The dome height of the first metatarsal head was found significantly higher in feet with subluxation, compared to feet aligned and deviated (P1 = 0.001; P2 = 0.0089 and P < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions

Our study results suggest that HV deformity may be related to an increased dome height and the measurement of the dome height of the first metatarsal head might be used to evaluate an anatomic tendency toward HV development.
Osterix-Cre marks distinct subsets of CD45- and CD45+ stromal populations in extra-skeletal tumors with pro-tumorigenic characteristics
Authors: Ricci Biancamaria , Tycksen Eric , Celik Hamza , Belle Jad I , Fontana Francesca , Civitelli Roberto , Faccio Roberta
Published: August 2020

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogeneous population of mesenchymal cells supporting tumor progression, whose origin remains to be fully elucidated. Osterix (Osx) is a marker of osteogenic differentiation, expressed in skeletal progenitor stem cells and bone-forming osteoblasts. We report Osx expression in CAFs and by using Osx-cre;TdTomato reporter mice we confirm the presence and pro-tumorigenic function of TdTOSX+ cells in extra-skeletal tumors. Surprisingly, only a minority of TdTOSX+ cells expresses fibroblast and osteogenic markers. The majority of TdTOSX+ cells express the hematopoietic marker CD45, have a genetic and phenotypic profile resembling that of tumor infiltrating myeloid and lymphoid populations, but with higher expression of lymphocytic immune suppressive genes. We find Osx transcript and Osx protein expression early during hematopoiesis, in subsets of hematopoietic stem cells and multipotent progenitor populations. Our results indicate that Osx marks distinct tumor promoting CD45- and CD45+ populations and challenge the dogma that Osx is expressed exclusively in cells of mesenchymal origin.
Temperature stress induces mites to help their carrion beetle hosts by eliminating rival blowflies
Authors: Sun Syuan-Jyun , Kilner Rebecca M
Published: August 2020

Ecological conditions are known to change the expression of mutualisms though the causal agents driving such changes remain poorly understood. Here we show that temperature stress modulates the harm threatened by a common enemy, and thereby induces a phoretic mite to become a protective mutualist. Our experiments focus on the interactions between the burying beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides, an associated mite species Poecilochirus carabi and their common enemy, blowflies, when all three species reproduce on the same small vertebrate carrion. We show that mites compete with beetle larvae for food in the absence of blowflies, and reduce beetle reproductive success. However, when blowflies breed on the carrion too, mites enhance beetle reproductive success by eating blowfly eggs. High densities of mites are especially effective at promoting beetle reproductive success at higher and lower natural ranges in temperature, when blowfly larvae are more potent rivals for the limited resources on the carcass.
Improving a probabilistic cytoarchitectonic atlas of auditory cortex using a novel method for inter-individual alignment
Authors: Gulban Omer Faruk , Goebel Rainer , Moerel Michelle , Zachlod Daniel , Mohlberg Hartmut , Amunts Katrin , de Martino Federico
Published: August 2020

The human superior temporal plane, the site of the auditory cortex, displays high inter-individual macro-anatomical variation. This questions the validity of curvature-based alignment (CBA) methods for in vivo imaging data. Here, we have addressed this issue by developing CBA+, which is a cortical surface registration method that uses prior macro-anatomical knowledge. We validate this method by using cytoarchitectonic areas on 10 individual brains (which we make publicly available). Compared to volumetric and standard surface registration, CBA+ results in a more accurate cytoarchitectonic auditory atlas. The improved correspondence of micro-anatomy following the improved alignment of macro-anatomy validates the superiority of CBA+ compared to CBA. In addition, we use CBA+ to align in vivo and postmortem data. This allows projection of functional and anatomical information collected in vivo onto the cytoarchitectonic areas, which has the potential to contribute to the ongoing debate on the parcellation of the human auditory cortex.
Indigenous Cultural Safety Training in Health, Education, and Social Service Work
Authors: Bowra Andrea , Howard Lisa , Mashford-Pringle Angela , Di Ruggiero Erica
Published: August 2020

Background: Indigenous Cultural Safety (ICS) training is a growing field of study; however, little consensus exists about how ICS is conceptualized and operationalized. This lack of consistency can lead to misinterpretation and misappropriation of Indigenous knowledges and histories that can further perpetuate colonial harms.

Objective: The objective of this scoping review is to explore and characterize the academic literature related to the conceptualization and operationalization of ICS training within the fields of health, social services, and education.

Methods: This scoping review protocol employs the Joanna Briggs Institute’s three-step search strategy to identify articles in the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, ERIC, and ASSIA. This protocol follows the PRISMA guidelines for Scoping Reviews (Joanna Briggs Institute, 2015; Tricco et al., 2018).

Discussion: This review will add new knowledge by offering insights into the historic and contemporary approaches to defining and operationalizing ICS training in the health, education and social services fields. The results produced will be of interest to scholars and health, social services, and education providers looking to apply the most current and appropriate concepts and practices of ICS.
Impact of proximal cavities and primary molar absence on space in the dental arches
Authors: Gomide Rafael T. , Frencken Jo E. , Leal Soraya C. , Kuijpers-Jagtman Anne Marie , Faber Jorge
Published: August 2020

Background

A recently proposed treatment protocol for dental caries in primary teeth, called Ultra Conservative Treatment (UCT), keeps medium to large cavities open so that children can keep them clean with tooth brushing and fluoride toothpaste. However, carious lesions have been related to malocclusion and decrease of space for the eruption of the permanent successor.

Methods

This cross-sectional study evaluated dental casts of 235 schoolchildren, aged 6–7 years old of six public schools in deprived suburban areas, and with at least two cavitated dentin carious lesions. The casts were grouped according to the location of cavitated dentin lesions into non-proximal cavity (NPC), proximal cavity with buccal or lingual surface contact point to adjacent tooth (PCCP) and proximal cavity without contact to adjacent tooth (PCWC), as well as the absence of primary molars due carious lesions (PMA). The relationship between location of cavitated dentin lesions or absence of primary molars with C+D+E and D+E space was analyzed.

Results

Children with absence of primary molars exhibited the smallest C+D+E and D+E space in the maxilla (P< 0.001) and mandible (P< 0.001), followed by proximal cavity without buccal or lingual surface contact. No significant difference was observed between NPC and PCCP groups in upper and lower arches.

Discussion

PCWC are associated with minor (less than the leeway space) C+D+E and D+E space loss in both arches, and additional space loss is noted when primary molars are prematurely lost. These results may have implications for orthodontic and restorative dental care decisions in children.
The brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66Met polymorphism increases segregation of structural correlation networks in healthy adult brains
Authors: Ueda Issei , Takemoto Kazuhiro , Watanabe Keita , Sugimoto Koichiro , Ikenouchi Atsuko , Kakeda Shingo , Katsuki Asuka , Yoshimura Reiji , Korogi Yukunori
Published: August 2020

Background

Although structural correlation network (SCN) analysis is an approach to evaluate brain networks, the neurobiological interpretation of SCNs is still problematic. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is well-established as a representative protein related to neuronal differentiation, maturation, and survival. Since a valine-to-methionine substitution at codon 66 of the BDNF gene (BDNF Val66Met single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)) is well-known to have effects on brain structure and function, we hypothesized that SCNs are affected by the BDNF Val66Met SNP. To gain insight into SCN analysis, we investigated potential differences between BDNF valine (Val) homozygotes and methionine (Met) carriers in the organization of their SCNs derived from inter-regional cortical thickness correlations.

Methods

Forty-nine healthy adult subjects (mean age = 41.1 years old) were divided into two groups according to their genotype (n: Val homozygotes = 16, Met carriers = 33). We obtained regional cortical thickness from their brain T1 weighted images. Based on the inter-regional cortical thickness correlations, we generated SCNs and used graph theoretical measures to assess differences between the two groups in terms of network integration, segregation, and modularity.

Results

The average local efficiency, a measure of network segregation, of BDNF Met carriers’ network was significantly higher than that of the Val homozygotes’ (permutation p-value = 0.002). Average shortest path lengths (a measure of integration), average local clustering coefficient (another measure of network segregation), small-worldness (a balance between integration and segregation), and modularity (a representative measure for modular architecture) were not significantly different between group (permutation p-values ≧ 0.01).

Discussion and Conclusion

Our results suggest that the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism may potentially influence the pattern of brain regional morphometric (cortical thickness) correlations. Comparing networks derived from inter-regional cortical thickness correlations, Met carrier SCNs have denser connections with neighbors and are more distant from random networks than Val homozygote networks. Thus, it may be necessary to consider potential effects of BDNF gene mutations in SCN analyses. This is the first study to demonstrate a difference between Val homozygotes and Met carriers in brain SCNs.
True heroines: unveiling the female management of startups’ entrepreneurs
Authors: Antunes Luiz Guilherme Rodrigues , Abreu Arlete Aparecida de , Rodrigues Mayra Mendonça
Published: August 2020

The objective of the article is to identify traits or characteristics of the female management of startups’ entrepreneurs. Thus, the study is characterized as qualitative, descriptive and multiple cases, in which data collection took place through semi-structured interviews with two entrepreneurs from Itajubá (MG) startups. The criteria of representativeness, availability and minimum working time were established for choosing the participants. The content analysis was carried out through the categories: female trajectory, leadership and barriers. The main results about female management are associated with the female trajectory, especially by childhood, family support and professional career; leadership characteristics of respect, equality, democracy and participation leading to transformational leadership; and challenges for the entrepreneurship practice such as discrimination, harassment and reconciliation between professional, personal and intimate life. The main contributions of the article are the leadership characteristics adopted by the respondents, which, even facing to past and current challenges, they manage based on respect, trust and mutual growth. The main originality of this paper is the analysis of female management based on the relations of the trajectories and leadership of women, as well as research in the field of entrepreneurial startups, an aspect not yet portrayed in the literature.
Los sistemas de información y la auditoría informática aplicados a una institución fiscalizadora subestatal: la Sindicatura de Comptes de la Comunidad Valenciana (España)
Authors: Abellan Maria Angeles , Pardo Beneyto Gonzalo
Published: August 2020

La digitalización es un fenómeno global que afecta a todas las actividades humanas. Las administraciones públicas también han incorporado a sus estructuras las nuevas tecnologías de la información y la comunicación, de manera que el sector público se ha informatizado completamente. En este contexto digital, la auditoría informática es una herramienta que permite fiscalizar las administraciones públicas y, a la vez, mejora la rendición de cuentas. Este artículo examina las principales ventajas y riesgos de la digitalización y ofrece un estudio de caso centrado en una institución fiscalizadora pública española que ha implementado la auditoría informática para auditar todas las operaciones de su sector público.
Atitude para o consumo colaborativo: um estudo com base na consciência ambiental
Authors: Paiva Luis Eduardo Brandão , Bandeira Emanuella Lustosa , Arruda Hanna Rocha de , Romero Claudia Buhamra Abreu
Published: August 2020

A preocupação com o desenvolvimento sustentável intensifica os debates sobre as questões ambientais e o consumo. Nesse sentido, o consumo colaborativo alinha-se à temática ambiental, visto que fomenta a maximização de utilidade dos objetos e, consequentemente, reduz os descartes e subprodutos emitidos ao meio ambiente. Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar a influência da consciência ambiental na atitude para o consumo colaborativo de compra, venda e troca em plataformas online, levantando-se a seguinte hipótese: há influência positiva da consciência ambiental na atitude para o consumo colaborativo dos universitários. Adicionalmente, caracteriza-se o perfil sociodemográfico dos usuários. Trata-se de uma pesquisa quantitativa, descritiva, realizada mediante um survey com 125 universitários do curso de Administração de uma Universidade. Utiliza-se estatística descritiva e inferencial, análise fatorial exploratória e regressão logística para análise dos dados. Os resultados indicam que os universitários conhecem o conceito de consumo colaborativo e que, quanto mais familiarizados com essa temática, maior a frequência e o tempo médio de uso das plataformas online; sendo as mais operadas OLX e Mercado Livre, principalmente para fins de redução de custos e redução do tempo de transação, prevalecendo benefícios individuais. A hipótese da pesquisa foi confirmada, identificando-se que há influências positivas da preocupação com o lixo e da renda individual na atitude para o consumo colaborativo; e influências negativas do semestre e da média de uso das plataformas online na atitude para o consumo colaborativo. Sugere-se, portanto, o desenvolvimento de políticas públicas que estimulem a consciência ambiental para fomentar o consumo colaborativo mais sustentável.
Diagnóstico da gestão do conhecimento: um estudo em uma organização da sociedade civil de interesse público
Authors: Azevedo Ismael de Mendonça , Brito Lydia Maria Pinto , Rocha Neto Manoel Pereira da , Araújo Maria Valéria Pereira
Published: August 2020

As organizações mudaram a sua forma de gerar e gerir riqueza a partir da gestão do conhecimento. Neste contexto este estudo parte  da seguinte questão: Qual o nível atual da gestão do conhecimento na percepção dos coordenadores de unidades do Instituto Nordeste Cidadania? Seu objetivo geral foi: diagnosticar o nível atual da gestão do conhecimento de uma Organização da Sociedade Civil de Interesse Público - OSCIP, a partir da percepção dos coordenadores de unidades no Rio Grande do Norte, mediante aplicação do Diagnóstico de Gestão do Conhecimento de Bukowitz e Williams. O estudo foi elaborado com base em textos de referência. Trata-se de um estudo de caso qualitativo e descritivo. Os resultados revelam que, o instituto encontra-se em um elevado nível de gestão do conhecimento nos processos táticos e estratégicos. Conclui-se, porém, que precisa trabalhar pontualmente alguns indicadores para refinar o processo de gerenciamento do conhecimento.
A Search for Suitable Growing Environment for Sesame Production in Nigeria
Authors: Hussaini A. , Usman M. , Falgore J. Y. , Sani S. S. , Zakari Y. , Muktar H. D.
Published: August 2020

The economic relevance of farm management practices to the production of sesame crops in Nigeria includes preventing and combatting food crises, actualization and realization of national food security as well as enhancing gross domestic product. This research seeks to examine the edaphology of some soil types in relation to the productivity of sesame crops in Nigeria. The experiment was conducted in statistical farm of Hussaini Adamu Federal Polytechnic, Kazaure, Jigawa State, Nigeria during 2019 growing season. The experimental design was Completely Randomized Design with one hundred replications. There were three types of soils investigated; Clay, Sandy, and Loamy were compared with one another. The soils were made free of any nuisance factors effects. The chlorophyll content of the plants was read using Konica Minolta chlorophyll meter SPAD-502 plus, and the data analyzed using one-way ANOVA and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The result of the analysis indicates a higher significant effect of Sandy soil (M = 11.20, SD = 2.37) on the yield of sesame crops in this region as compared to the effects of the Clay (M = 3.60, SD = 0.89), and Loamy (M = 6.86, SD = 3.39) soils. The overall ANOVA test indicates that growing environment does have effect on sesame production, F (2, 27) = 6.70, p = 0.00. However, the result indicates insignificant chlorophyll mean difference between Clay and Loamy soils. It is therefore evident from these results and the reviewed literatures that the suitable growing environment for sesame production in Nigeria is fertile Sandy soil that is deep, light textured, well-drained and that is exposed to an average temperature of 25oC to 37oC. The crop is also tolerant to draught, but not at the germination and seedling stages, water logging, and excessive rain fall while it requires 90–120 frost-free days to achieve optimal yields in cold regions. The challenges which stand in the way of increasing the productivity and quality of sesame crops need to be overcome. As with other crops, which is a major export crop in many countries, these crops should be given more research attention.
Contribution of Home Gardening to Household Food Security: A Case Study of Home Gardeners in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Oladele O. N. , Emeghara U. U. , Ayodele J. T. , Ishola B. F. , Awobona T. A. , Olukotun O.
Published: August 2020

Aims: This study examined the contribution of home gardening to household food security in IgabI Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Study Design: The study was designed to collect data from 120 home gardeners using well structured questionnaire and personal interview of the gardeners by the researchers.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria between June to July, 2019.

Methodology: Multi-stage, purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 120 respondents. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as means, frequency distribution, table, percentage and Likert – scale.

Results: The results showed male (65.83%) in their active age (87.50% are within the age range of 21-50 years) and highly educated (92.50%) with good number of years of experience in home gardening, (80% had over 5years of experience) dominated the practice of home gardening in the study area. The study also revealed that they produced many types of crops, about 32. The most popular crops cultivated were; tomato 91.67%),cowpea(87.50%),groundnut(82.50%),okra(75.00%), pumpkin (70.83%), spinach (70.83%) maize(56.67%),millet(56.67%),sorghum(51.67%), pepper (50.00%) and sweet potato (50.00%).The Likert--scale  result showed that all the home gardeners household were food secure and the study established that home gardening does not only  contribute to their house hold food supply but also their income. However the home gardening in the study area is faced with problems such as pests attack and diseases infestation (80.00%) and lack of farm inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and farm tools(75.00 %).

Conclusion: The study revealed that home gardening contributed significantly to the household food security. It is therefore important to integrate home gardening into our farming system been a good tool for achieving food security among households and people  should also be sensitize to utilize empty plots  of land around their homestead for home gardens.
Assessment of Mutagenicity Induced by Different Mutagens in Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)
Authors: Kolhe Prashant N. , Varne Mrunalini D. , Deshmukh Sumit N. , Harke Sanjay N. , Wagh Sopan G.
Published: August 2020

Coriander is one of the most widely used herb. Coriander generally grown for leaf and grain purpose throughout the world. Induction of mutation is considered to be effective in improving various characteristics in plants like seed germination, plant vigour, yield etc. In present study we used three different chemical mutagens Colchicine, Sodium azide (SA) and Methyl methane sulphonate (MMS) on four different varieties of coriander (Green wonder, Cross-91, Mrudul and Surabhi). The study was performed by exposing the seeds of four varieties of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) to Colchicine (0.01%,0.02%,0.03% and 0.04%), Sodium azide (SA) at (0.1%,0.2%,0.3% and 0.4%) and Methyl methane sulphonate (MMS) at (0.01%,0.02%,0.03% and 0.04%) respectively. The observations were made on seed germination in field and laboratory conditions and the observations on seedling height, number of primary branches and leaves were made in field conditions. All the mutagens significantly affect the germination and seedling growth. The study revealed that germination percentage, plant height, no. of primary branches and leaves decreased with increase in dose/concentration of mutagen. Among three different chemical mutagen we observed that colchicine is better mutagen for induction of mutagen after that sodium azide (SA) had good results for seed treatment. Some of the concentrations of methyl methane sulphonate (MMS) (0.01% & 0.02%) were better. Among all four varieties of coriander Cross-91 gave better result after that Mrudul and Surabhi respond well to some concentrations. We categories the effectiveness of mutagen to induce mutation in coriander as MMS>SA>Colchicine.
Financial and Production Constraints faced by Women Entrepreneurs
Authors: Suganthi N. , Asokhan M.
Published: August 2020

Women, who try to enter the field of industry in either managerial or entrepreneurial role, are generally exposed to various constraints. Though the entrepreneurial process is the same for men and women, there are however, in practice, women have to confront many additional problems of varying dimensions and magnitudes, which prevent them from realizing their full potential as entrepreneurs. Women entrepreneurs experience multidimensional constraints. The governments at the centre and the states have established a number of specialized institutions to cater to the needs of women entrepreneurs but they still face many problems. At this juncture, the constraints faced by women entrepreneurs were studied as one of the objective. This objective was to ascertain the financial, production and labour constraints faced by women in their enterprise. To achieve the purpose of the study, 40 registered women entrepreneurs in Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) were identified in Coimbatore District of Tamil Nadu. Series of questions were asked through well structured interview schedule. Evidence in the paper shows that the most serious financial constraint faced by women was, that the entire loan was not given at a time (65.00%). In production and labour, most serious constraints faced by women entrepreneurs were labour management in various essential activities (92.5%). Methodology and design not clarified here. No recommendations The ex post - facto type of research was employed. Proportionate Random sample method” was adopted to select the respondents from the four Entrepreneurial Hubs. Women should attend training programs, seminars, workshop and conferences Related to develop professional competencies in managerial, leadership, marketing, financial, production process, profit planning, maintaining books of accounts and other skills.
Thermomechanical Analysis of a Bio‐Inspired Lightweight Multifunctional Structure
Authors: Kanimba Eurydice , Yang Ting , Huxtable Scott T. , Li Ling , Tian Zhiting
Published: August 2020

This work investigates the thermal and mechanical performance of a bio‐inspired lightweight structure, which is inspired by the porous (up to 93% porosity) internal skeleton of cuttlefish, also known as cuttlebone. The potential of using this structure as an air‐cooled heat sink for electronic devices and an integrated thermal protection system (ITPS) is tested and systematically compared with three conventional structures based on wavy, pyramid, and cylindrical pin fin geometries. When cooling a hot spot (100 × 100 × 2 mm3) subjected to heat flow (250 W), and given the same solid volume fraction, the wavy and cuttlebone structures reduce the maximum temperature to 57 °C, which is 13 and 19 °C lower than for the pin fins and pyramid structures, respectively. Concerning the ITPS application, the cuttlebone exhibits the most isometric deformation with a 0.062 mm maximum standard deviation among its four corners. Moreover, the cuttlebone outperforms the other structures in terms of compressive strength (20%, 17%, and 219% increase compared with the wavy, pyramid, and pin fin structures, respectively). More importantly, the simulations indicate that the cuttlebone structure undergoes a graceful failure process due to the sequential buckling of the vertical walls compared with other structures.
Osteogenic and Adipogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Gelatin Solutions of Different Viscosities
Authors: Lee Kyubae , Chen Yazhou , Yoshitomi Toru , Kawazoe Naoki , Yang Yingnan , Chen Guoping
Published: August 2020

Accumulating evidence indicates that stem cell fate can be regulated by mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix. Most studies have focused onthe influence of matrix elasticity and viscoelasticity on stem cell differentiation. However, how matrix viscosity affects stem cell differentiation has been overlooked. In this study, a biphasic gelatin solution/hydrogel system is used for 3D culture of human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to investigate the influence of gelatin solution viscosity on simultaneous osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation at the same culture condition. Gelatin solution promotes cell proliferation, while its promotive effect decreases with the increase of viscosity. The influence of viscosity on osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of MSCs shows opposite trends. A high‐viscosity gelatin solution results in an increase of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium deposition, and expression of osteogenesis‐related genes. On the other hand, in a low‐viscosity gelatin solution, a lot of lipid vacuoles are formed and adipogenesis‐related genes are highly expressed. The results indicate high viscosity is beneficial for osteogenic differentiation, while low viscosity is beneficial for adipogenic differentiation. These findings suggest the importance of matrix viscosity on stem cell differentiation in 3D microenvironments.
The Design of Vaccines Based on the Shielding of Antigenic Site Ø of a Respiratory Syncytial Virus Fusion Protein Immunogen
Authors: Frey Steven J. , Varner Chad , Arsiwala Ammar , Currier Michael G. , Moore Martin L. , Kane Ravi S.
Published: August 2020

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), for which there is currently no licensed vaccine, displays a fusion (F) protein that is considered a vaccine target. This protein has an antigenic site called site Ø, which has been shown to elicit potent, neutralizing antibodies and has therefore been considered important in the formulation of RSV vaccines. However, this site is also the least conserved region on the F protein across RSV subtypes. Therefore, directing the immune response away from site Ø and refocusing it toward more conserved parts of the RSV F protein might serve to better elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies. To demonstrate that directing the immune response away from site Ø is a viable approach, a prefusion F‐based vaccine based on an F protein with a shielded site Ø is generated. Sera from mice immunized with multivalent scaffolds presenting this immunogen is capable of neutralizing RSV of both subtypes. This result may have application in the development of an effective and broadly protective RSV vaccine.
The Bulk Heterojunction in Organic Photovoltaic, Photodetector, and Photocatalytic Applications
Authors: Wadsworth Andrew , Hamid Zeinab , Kosco Jan , Gasparini Nicola , McCulloch Iain
Published: August 2020

Organic semiconductors require an energetic offset in order to photogenerate free charge carriers efficiently, owing to their inability to effectively screen charges. This is vitally important in order to achieve high power conversion efficiencies in organic solar cells. Early heterojunction‐based solar cells were limited to relatively modest efficiencies (<4%) owing to limitations such as poor exciton dissociation, limited photon harvesting, and high recombination losses. The development of the bulk heterojunction (BHJ) has significantly overcome these issues, resulting in dramatic improvements in organic photovoltaic performance, now exceeding 18% power conversion efficiencies. Here, the design and engineering strategies used to develop the optimal bulk heterojunction for solar‐cell, photodetector, and photocatalytic applications are discussed. Additionally, the thermodynamic driving forces in the creation and stability of the bulk heterojunction are presented, along with underlying photophysics in these blends. Finally, new opportunities to apply the knowledge accrued from BHJ solar cells to generate free charges for use in promising new applications are discussed.
Side Chain Redistribution as a Strategy to Boost Organic Electrochemical Transistor Performance and Stability
Authors: Moser Maximilian , Hidalgo Tania Cecilia , Surgailis Jokubas , Gladisch Johannes , Ghosh Sarbani , Sheelamanthula Rajendar , Thiburce Quentin , Giovannitti Alexander , Salleo Alberto , Gasparini Nicola , Wadsworth Andrew , Zozoulenko Igor , Berggren Magnus , Stavrinidou Eleni , Inal Sahika , McCulloch Iain
Published: August 2020

A series of glycolated polythiophenes for use in organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) is designed and synthesized, differing in the distribution of their ethylene glycol chains that are tethered to the conjugated backbone. While side chain redistribution does not have a significant impact on the optoelectronic properties of the polymers, this molecular engineering strategy strongly impacts the water uptake achieved in the polymers. By careful optimization of the water uptake in the polymer films, OECTs with unprecedented steady‐state performances in terms of [μC*] and current retentions up to 98% over 700 electrochemical switching cycles are developed.
Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis of Antimony‐Doped Tin Oxide Transparent Conductive Coatings
Authors: Kim Jaewon , Murdoch Billy J. , Partridge James G. , Xing Kaijian , Qi Dong‐Chen , Lipton‐Duffin Josh , McConville Christopher F. , van Embden Joel , Gaspera Enrico Della
Published: August 2020

Transparent conducting oxides are fundamental for the fabrication of optoelectronic devices including touchscreen displays, solar cells, and light emitting diodes. However, they mostly rely on rare elements and expensive vacuum‐based deposition methods that negatively affect the overall cost of optoelectronics. Here, a detailed investigation on the synthesis of antimony‐doped tin oxide films using an ultrasonic spray coating system is presented. High‐quality, crystalline SnO2 films are deposited via decomposition of metal precursors sprayed directly onto hot (>400 °C) substrates. Doping is easily achieved by adding the dopant salt to the spray solution, and the presence of the dopant atoms heavily influences the optical, electrical, and structural properties of SnO2. These coatings are characterized using a comprehensive suite of techniques including X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy, X‐ray and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopies, Hall effect measurements, optical spectroscopy in the visible and near infrared, and atomic force microscopy, in order to elucidate the relationship between the synthetic conditions and functional properties. Through a careful optimization process, Sb‐doped SnO2 coatings showing transmittance values in the visible spectrum between 80% and 90%, and sheet resistances of 10–20 Ω/sq−1 are achieved. Such values are suitable for immediate applications of these Sb‐doped SnO2 films as high‐performance transparent conductors.
Simple Salt‐Template Assembly for Layered Heterostructures of C/Ferrite and EG/C/MFe2O4 (M = Fe, Co, Ni, Zn) Nanoparticle Arrays toward Superior Microwave Absorption Capabilities
Authors: Wu Liwen , Lu Yao , Shao Wen , Wei Haiyan , Tong Guoxiu , Wu Wenhua
Published: August 2020

Layered C/ferrite nanoparticle array (NPA) and expanded graphite (EG)/C/MFe2O4 (M = Fe, Co, Ni, Zn) NPA heterostructures are synthesized via a simple sodium salt‐template method. An array of well‐distributed ferrite nanoparticles supported by layered carbon grows simultaneously on the EG surface from metal–oleate complexes. Some dynamic factors are systematically optimized to well adjust the size, content, and morphology of the heterostructures. The heterostructures show good soft magnetic nature with the Ms decreasing in the following order: EG/C/γ‐Fe2O3 > EG/C/CoFe2O4 > EG/C/NiFe2O4 > EG/C/ZnFe2O4. As microwave absorbers, these heterostructures of EG/C/MFe2O4 NPA exhibit significantly enhanced electromagnetic‐wave absorbing capabilities (EWACs) compared with pure EG, EG/γ‐Fe2O3 NPA heterostructure, and other C‐based composites. Hereinto, EG/C/CoFe2O4 NPA heterostructures exhibit the optimal EWAC with a minimal reflection loss of −49.85 dB at 13.9 GHz and a 1.3 mm coating thickness. The frequency range of 99% absorption is over 2.0–17.0 GHz and the corresponding thickness is 1.10–8.0 mm. The excellent microwave absorption relies on cooperation of double dielectric relaxations, natural resonance, eddy current loss, high attenuation, and appropriate impedance matching. Therefore, layered heterostructures of EG/C/MFe2O4 NPA are promising electromagnetic wave absorbers for practical application.
Recent Progress on NiFe‐Based Electrocatalysts for Alkaline Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Gong Lanqian , Yang Huan , Douka Abdoulkader Ibro , Yan Ya , Xia Bao Yu
Published: August 2020

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is significant for energy conversion and storage technologies. However, efficient electrocatalysts are required to overcome its sluggish kinetics. Recently, NiFe‐based composites have shown to be promising electrocatalysts for alkaline OER, and numerous efforts have been invested in the development of low‐cost and advanced NiFe‐based nanostructures. In this mini review, the latest developments in NiFe‐based electrocatalysts are summarized and discussed. Following the introduction of the OER mechanism, different NiFe electrocatalysts in alloys, (hydr)oxides, and other derived compounds are successively introduced. Moreover, the synthesis methods of typical layered NiFe hydroxide structures are also introduced. Finally, recent progress is summarized and some perspectives are provided for addressing future challenges for NiFe‐based electrocatalysts. It is believed that this review may provide useful reference for the future design and preparation of NiFe compounds for the alkaline OER and beyond.