bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Levels of Maternal Serum Alpha-fetoprotein and Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in HIV Seropositive Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi, Nigeria
Authors: Udeogu C. H. , Ugwu M. C. , Okwara J. , Ohale A. C. , Ike O. C. , Amadi N. C. , Ugwu O. , Eguogwu F. C.
Published: May 2021

HIV infection remains a worrisome pandemic especially in developing countries like Nigeria, with an increasing number of infected women becoming pregnant, with added risk of pregnancy complications such as intrauterine fetal death, neural tube defects, and vertical transmissions. Hence this study assessed the levels of maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) and beta human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) in HIV seropositive pregnant women, and their implication for maternal and fetal health. A total of 86 patients were recruited for the study from the Antenatal Clinic of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) Nnewi.  Forty three were HIV seropositive (Test group), and forty three were HIV seronegative (Control group). Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein and beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels were assayed by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. The results showed that MSAFP levels (3.14±2.80 ng/ml) were significantly lower (P < .05) in HIV infected pregnant women when compared to HIV uninfected pregnant women (4.75±3.68 ng/ml). There was no significant difference in the levels of β-hCG (217.88±63.85mIU/mL) in the test group (P = 0.629) as compared to controls (223.75±47.71 mIU/mL). In the test group, increased CD4 counts were significantly   associated   with   increased MSAFP and β-hCG levels in a positive fashion (P < .05). Increase in Gestational age was also significantly associated with increased β-hCG levels (P < .05).

The measurements of MSAFP and β-hCG levels may be used alongside CD4 count in the assessment of maternal and fetal wellbeing. Human Immunodeficiency Virus by reducing the levels of MSAFP in HIV infected pregnant women increases the likelihood of pregnancy complications such as intrauterine fetal death.
The Impact of Changing from Prednisolone to Dexamethasone for the Management of Wheeze in Children- A Service Evaluation
Authors: Thyng James , Cunningham Lynn , McKinley Susanne , Hay Felix , Nunn Catherine , Roland Damian
Published: May 2021

Dexamethasone has become a popular alternative to Prednisolone as an oral steroid used for wheeze in children in many Paediatric Emergency Departments. It has proved non-inferior to Prednisolone in several studies [1,2] and its main advantages are single dose requirement and greater tolerability in children [3,4]. However, to the best of our knowledge there are no studies looking into the differences in re-attendance rates. Using our local Electronic Health Records, we extracted data of all over 5-year olds presenting with asthma and wheeze for 21 months of Prednisolone data and 15 months of Dexamethasone and found no statistically significant increase in re-attendance rates.
Determinination of the Frequency of Altered Cardiac Repolarization by Measuring the Heart rate Corrected QT Interval in COPD Patients
Authors: Memon Shahla Roshan , Rind Muhammad Aslam , Nazir Maria , Memon Shah Jehan , Rind Muhammad Saleem
Published: May 2021

Objectives: To determine the frequency of altered cardiac repolarization by measuring the heart rate corrected QT interval in COPD patients.

Setting: Department of Medicine at LUMHS hospital Hyderabad/Jamshoro.

Study Design: Descriptive Cross sectional study.         

Duration of Study: 6 months from 01-03-2019 to 31-08-2019.

Methods: A total of 232 patients with severe acute exacerbation of COPD were included in this study. A 12 lead ECG was performed. QT intervals were measured on a resting ECG tracing in lead II. The QT interval was measured manually from the starting point of the QRS complex to the terminal point of the down slope of the T wave.

Results: A total of 232 patients with COPD were included in this study. Most of the cases were above 50 years of age. The average age of the patients was 53.74±4.35 years. There were 92.67% (215/232) male and 7.33% (17/232) female. Out of 232 patients, 21.14% were current smoker and 75.86% were ex-smoker. A QTc interval >0.44 seconds was considered abnormally prolonged. Frequency of altered cardiac repolarization by measuring the heart rate corrected QT interval in COPD patients was 31.47% (73/232). Rate of altered cardiac repolarization was not significant among different age groups (p=0.641). Rate of altered cardiac repolarization was significantly high in male as compare to female (33.5% vs. 5.9%; p=0.018). This was not significant between obese and non-obese groups (p=0.100). Rate of altered cardiac repolarization was significantly high in former smoker (p=0.0005) and those patients whose duration of COPD was above 15 years (p=0.0005).

Conclusion: Patients with hypoxic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have evidence of a subclinical parasympathetic autonomic neuropathy, with apparent preservation of sympathetic function. Measuring heart rate corrected QT interval (QTc) test is repeatable, easy to perform and a sensitive indicator for autonomic dysfunction in breathlessness individuals with COPD.
To Determine the Mortality and Factors Responsible for Mortality in Patients Presenting with Acute Stroke within 5 Days of Admission at a Tertiary Care Hospital Hyderabad/Jamshoro
Authors: Aslam Muhammad , Jammal Iffat , Nazir Maria , Rind Saleem , Shaikh Shehzad
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Stroke is the third most common cause of death and the first leading cause of disability in developed and developing countries. Various clinical variables have been implicated as predictors of final outcome of acute stroke. These predictors are demographic characteristics, types of stroke, co-morbidities and therapy. Identification of modifiable predictors of death is of paramount importance for clinicians in resource poor-setting, so that specific therapies and management strategies can be applied to patients at high risk of dying.

Objective: To determine the mortality and factors responsible for mortality in patients presenting with acute stroke within 5 days of admission at a tertiary care Hospital,  Hyderabad/Jamshoro.

Setting: Medical Unit-I, Liaquat University Hospital, Hyderabad/Jamshoro.

Duration: Six months from   01-02-2019 to 31-07-2019

Design: prospective, (non -interventional) study.

Subject and Methods: Two hundred and fourteen acute stroke patients confirmed by CT scan brain were included in the study. Patients were assessed through history and examination and brief history was taken about the disease and cigarette smoking. Blood Pressure was measured twice. Patients who died during admission were evaluated for the factors responsible for the mortality. The findings of variables were entered in a Pro forma.

Results: The average age of the patients was 55.65±8.38 years. Frequency of mortality in patients presenting with acute stroke within 5 days of admission in hospital was observed in 29.91% (64/214) cases. Regarding factors leading to mortality, Rate of mortality was 23 times more like in those patients who had dyslipidemia [OR= 23.13 95%CI= 1.86 to 7.98] similarly mortality in patients was 2 to 4 times more likely in diabetic, hypertensive cases and smokers.

Conclusion: Frequency of mortality was high and factors leading to mortality within 5 days were dyslipidemia, diabetic, hypertensive cases. Mortality associated with acute stroke needs prevention and control of risk factors. Treatment and control of diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia have contributed to the stroke mortality declines; however, the onset of these interventions is more recent, and thus their impact is less clear.
Ethnomedicinal Plant- A Review
Authors: Prasad Chandani C. , Khemchandani Nisha V. , Bhagat Rani T. , Pimpale Awdhut D.
Published: May 2021

The ethno-botanical study is having immense importance in the field of medical science; it has a unique importance in the branch of science with much attention. Ethno botany has a special relationship between people and plants. Traditional medicine and ethno plants are very important in the traditional community. The use of medicinal plants has been done since many ages and now it is also considered as a modern medicine. Medicinal plants have been used by various cultures and ethnic groups. Around 80% of conventional medicines used in primary healthcare are extracted from plants around the world. India is one of the world's mega biodiversity nations, with lush vegetation and a vast array of medicinal plants and herbs. Herbal medicines have a bright future in both developing and developed countries.
Predictive Risk Factors for Post Tonsillectomy Hemorrhage in Children
Authors: Kumar Amrat , Mehar Ghulam Shabir , Hussain Junaid , Ali Ahmed , Waheed Abdul , Kumar Dileep
Published: May 2021

Objective: To assess the risk factors which determine the magnitude of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage. 

Study Design: Prospective cross sectional study.

Setting: A study carried out at otolyrangical unit at a tertiary care Isra University hospital Hyderabad, from June 2018 to April 2019.

Materials and Methods: 110 pediatric patients age 5-17 years were included in this study. We administrated a structured questionnaire to parents of the patients. We selected cases for tonsillectomy as per criteria of the American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS). Those patients with a history of recurrent tonsillitis presented at the otolaryngology department were included. Patients with a history of use of anticoagulant therapy, obstructive sleep apnea, patients with a history of a bleeding disorder, and patients not giving consent were excluded. We diagnosed patients selected for tonsillectomy included with recurrent tonsillitis, peri-tonsillar hypertrophy, and tonsillar hypertrophy. Patients were observed and followed for postoperative hemorrhage. Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21 (SPSS 21).

Results:  Among 110 children included in the study, 41.8% patients were in the age group of 5-10 years, 30% were in the age group of 11-15 years and 28.2% were over 15 years. Among 110 patients 21.8% underwent tonsillectomy were diagnosed as recurrent tonsillitis, 19% were diagnosed as having tonsillar hypertrophy, 40.0% were suffering from both recurrent tonsillitis and tonsillar hypertrophy and 19.2% had peritonsillar hypertrophy. This shows that 14.5% were admitted to the hospital after 1-5 days, 58.1% developed post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage after 6-10 days and 27.2% developed post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage after 10 days.

Conclusion: We conclude that age >10 years was significant predictive risk factors for post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage among children who undergo tonsillectomy.
Knowledge Regarding Contraceptive Methods among Married Women Attending Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Fatima Kaneez , Kadir Sadia , Neelam . , Batool Kiran , Kalsoom . , Hussain Shahid
Published: May 2021

Objective: To determine frequency of adequate knowledge of contraceptive methods among married women attending tertiary care hospital for antenatal care.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Setting: Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center, Karachi.

Duration: From June to December 2016.

Materials and Methods: Total 118 married women presented for antenatal care were included. Women were evaluated by administering a questionnaire to assess knowledge about contraception methods. Knowledge was labeled as adequate if responders correctly answered >70% of the questions. Descriptive statistics and Stratification were performed. Post-stratification Chi-square test was applied and p-value ≤0.05 was taken as significant.

Results: The mean age was 29.25±5.08 years. Mean gestational age was 11.52±4.54 weeks. Mean duration of marriage was 4.50±2.77 years. 61% study subjects were found with adequate knowledge of contraception. Adequate knowledge had a significant correlation with age, duration of marriage, parity, residence, and education level.

Conclusion: Around 61% of the married females were observed with adequate knowledge regarding contraceptive procedures. The female knowledge was significantly associated with age, duration of marriage, parity, residence, socio-economic status, and education level.
Fish Singgang Extracts as a Potential Anti-Proliferative against Colon Cancer Cell Lines (HT-29, HCT-116, CT-26)
Authors: Jamain Anis Nafisah , Anwar Nur Atikah , Ridzwan Norhaslinda , Jumli Mimie Noratiqah , Hadi Norhayati Abd , Arshad Roslan , Rohin Mohd Adzim Khalili , Bakar Che Abdullah Abu , Latif Ahmad Zubaidi A.
Published: May 2021

Aim: To investigate anti-proliferative effect of three types of Terengganu singgang extracts on colon cancer cell lines (HT-29, HCT-116, CT-26).

Study Design: Experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Central Laboratory, Tissue Culture Laboratory, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Terengganu between April 2019 and July 2019.

Methodology: Samples comprised three types of singgang dish, which were prepared, cooked, and then extracted with distilled water and ethanol (EtOH) in different strengths, 50%, 70%, and 100%.These singgang samples were chub mackerel (ST), Indian mackerel (SK),and a control sample with no fish (SC). Extracts were analyzed for their anti-proliferative effect by MTT-based assay. Then, the morphological of cell apoptotic changes was observed using light inverted microscope.

Results: Experimental assays showed that the SC sample extracted in 100% EtOH produced the highest yield (3.7%).The extract of ST in aqueous (0.27 (0.11)) yielded the most cytotoxic value, followed by extract SK in 100% EtOH (0.28 (0.10)) and extract SC in 50% EtOH (0.20 (0.08)). Then, the anti-proliferative effect was confirmed with morphological changes of cell which were characterized by cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, and fragmentation of apoptotic bodies after 24, 48 and 72 hours of treatment.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the ST extract showed the best anti-proliferative effect.
Frequency of Involvement of Different Head and Neck Sites in Referred Otalgia
Authors: Hussain Ashfaq , Baig Salman , Bhutta Mohammad Farooq , Iqbal Nasima , Bijarani Ali Nawaz , Muneer Mariam
Published: May 2021

Aim: To find out the most frequent head and neck sites of origin of referred otalgia.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional.

Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted at the ENT department of Bahawal Victoria hospital Bahawalpur during January 2019 to December 2019.

Methodology: About 500 patients with ear ache were examined and after exclusion 150 were finally analyzed. Detailed history of the patient and clinical examination were done along with radio imaging and endoscopic studies wherever needed. Diagnosis of referred otalgia was made after having normal ear examination along with pathology lying at different head and neck region which share common sensory innervation. For analysis SPSS version-20 was used.

Results: The mean age of the study participants was 28.23 ±13 years. The majority of participants were having otalgia of tonsillar origin followed by dental origin and pharyngitis with 31.3%, 23.3% and 16% respectively. Very few of them having otalgia originating from hypopharyngeal carcinoma and laryngeal carcinoma i.e. 3.3% and 2% respectively. While only 4.7% of otalgia were of unknown origin. Female participants were having higher frequency of otalgia which is originated from diseases of temporomandibular joint, hypopharyngeal carcinoma and otalgia of unknown origin in comparison to male participants but differences were insignificant. Otalgia originated from tonsillar and dental causes and due to pharyngitis were most common among the younger age group but having non-significant p-value.

Conclusion: It has been concluded that the patients presenting with ear pain, have sometimes no underlying ear pathology. If the ear examination is normal then it is important to examine all other sites of head and neck which share sensory innervation with the ear including teeth, tonsils, pharynx, larynx, nose and paranasal sinuses to find out the exact cause of referred otalgia.
Frequency of Haemoglobin Genotype Variants, ABO and Rh ‘D’ Antigen among Madonna Undergraduates of South East Origin, Nigeria
Authors: Eze Richard , Obeagu Emmanuel Ifeanyi , Nwakulite Arvin , Vincent C.C.N. , Ogbodo Sylvester Ogbonna , Ibekwe Adaobi Maryann , Okafor Chukwuma J. , Chukwurah Ejike Felix
Published: May 2021

Haemoglobin genotype variants, ABO and Rh blood groups are known to vary from one population to another.  Standard electrophoretic and haemagglutination techniques were employed in testing the blood samples. Of the 150 test subjects screened, HbAA in the male subjects were 58(48.0%) and 63(52.0%) in the female counterparts. The frequency of distribution of HbAA, HbAS, and HbSS in the subject were 121 (80.7%), 28 (18.7%) and 1 (0.6%). Also HbAS in the female was 16(57.1%) while in male subjects was 12(42.9%). Blood group A (41.7%), group B(21.7%), group AB(28.6%) and  group O(57.1%) were results for male subjects as against Group A(58.3%), Group B(78.3%), Group AB (71.4%) and Group O(42.9%) respectively in the female subjects.90% were Rh ‘D’ positive while 10% were Rh ‘D’ negative. Knowledge of the distribution of ABO, Rh ‘D’ blood groups and haemoglobin genotype variants in any population is useful in health care planning, medical diagnosis and targeting the population that need counseling. If such information is well managed it can make a difference in the quality of decisions that individuals will make especially as it concerns marriage, blood transfusion and other medical demands.
Vitamin D is a New Promising Inhibitor to the Main Protease (Mpro) of COVID-19 by Molecular Docking
Authors: Al-Mazaideh Ghassab M. , Shalayel Mohammed H. , Al-Swailmi Farhan K. , Aladaileh Saleem H.
Published: May 2021

In this study, vitamin D has shown greater efficacy of binding with Mpro of COVID-19 compared to the recently recommended drugs. The docking study was simulated to streamline interaction effects of Vitamin D, Remdesivir, Chloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine, Aspirin, and Azithromycin complexes with the active site of Mpro. Vitamin D is found to have the highest potential interaction in terms of total H-bond, van der Waal, torsional, and desolvation energy which were the lowest among all the selected drugs. The hydroxyl group of vitamin D and the thiol group of Mpro cysteine had played a leading role in increasing Vitamin D binding and stability with the Mpro pocket by contribution to the inception of three hydrogen bonds. The study recommend that vitamin D can be added to the COVID-19 treatment protocol, which may have the desired effect on viral replication inhibition and decreases mortality.
Transmission Dynamics of Coronavirus Pandemic: Modeling and Stability Analysis
Authors: Obasi V. C. , Nwaka B. U.
Published: May 2021

Covid-19, as a pandemic disease around the world, has generated great threat to human society and caused enormous mortality with weak surveillance system. In this paper, we propose a mathematical model to describe the transmission of Covid-19. Moreover, basic reproduction number and the local and global dynamics of the dynamical model are obtained. Then we apply our model to characterize the transmission process of Covid-19 in Nigeria. It was found that, in order to avoid its outbreak in Nigeria, it may be better to adhere to government policy to curtail the spread through person-to-person transmission and make effort to improve personal hygiene as well as early detection and reporting. Our results may provide some new insights for elimination of Covid-19.
Targeting of lactate dehydrogenase C dysregulates the cell cycle and sensitizes breast cancer cells to DNA damage response targeted therapy
Authors: Naik Adviti , Decock Julie
Published: May 2021

The cancer testis antigen (CTA) lactate dehydrogenase C (LDHC) is a promising anticancer target with tumor‐specific expression and immunogenicity. Interrogation of breast cancer patient cohorts from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) indicate that upregulation of LDHC expression correlates with unfavorable prognosis. Although the role of LDHC is well characterized in spermatocytes, its role in tumors remains largely unknown. We investigated whether LDHC is involved in regulating genomic stability and whether it could be targeted to affect tumor cellular fitness. Silencing LDHC in four breast cancer cell lines significantly increased the presence of giant cells, nuclear aberrations, DNA damage, and apoptosis. LDHC‐silenced cells demonstrated aberrant cell cycle progression with differential expression of cell cycle checkpoint and DNA damage response regulators. In addition, LDHC silencing‐induced microtubule destabilization, culminating in increased mitotic catastrophe and reduced long‐term survival. Notably, the clonogenicity of LDHC‐silenced cells was further reduced by treatment with the poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor olaparib and with the DNA‐damaging drug cisplatin. This study supports the therapeutic potential of targeting LDHC to mitigate cancer cell survival and improve sensitivity to agents that cause DNA damage or inhibit its repair.
Careful Choices in Low Temperature Ceramic Processing and Slow Hydration Kinetics Can Affect Proton Conduction in Ceria
Authors: Simons Philipp , Torres Kierstin P. , Rupp Jennifer L. M.
Published: May 2021

Low‐temperature ceramic proton conductors such as ceria are important for applications ranging from sensors and resistive switches to new devices like implantable solid‐oxide glucose fuel cells. Spray pyrolysis offers a promising fabrication route for proton‐conducting ceria, with direct liquid‐to‐solid synthesis and control over crystallinity and grain size. To date, there are conflicting reports on ceria's proton conduction mechanism, particularly whether the interior contributes to proton conduction or transport occurs exclusively along a surface water layer. In this work, proton conductivity is observed in sprayed ceria thin films at 125 °C and below. Post‐annealed films exhibit higher conductivity than as‐deposited films of 3.3 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 25 °C, which is comparable to previous reports and ascribed to the increase in crystallinity and grain size by post‐annealing. This indicates that the interior of ceria in fact contributes to proton conduction. Remarkably slow hydration kinetics of ceria are observed, with time‐dependent conductivity equilibrating to 9.53 × 10−6 S cm−1 after up to 76 h. This implies kinetics may have suppressed proton conduction in previous studies, explaining the strong fluctuations in reports to date. Slow protonation kinetics must be considered when designing functional ceria ceramics, for example, in electrochemical bio‐energy conversion, sensing or neuromorphic computing.
Infrared Proximity Sensors Based on Photo‐Induced Tunneling in van der Waals Integration
Authors: Kim Young Rae , Phan Thanh Luan , Cho Kye Whan , Kang Won Tae , Kim Kunnyun , Lee Young Hee , Yu Woo Jong
Published: May 2021

Infrared (IR) detectors based on photo‐induced tunneling in van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) of graphene/h‐BN/graphene or MoS2/h‐BN/graphene exhibit extremely low dark currents owing to a large electron barrier. However, a lack of tunneling barrier materials except for h‐BN for 2D vdWHs limits their further enhancement. In this study, a broadband detection is reported with high sensitivity and fast photoresponse of IR proximity sensor by a vdW integration (2D‐3D) of graphene or MoS2, with NiO/Ni as the IR absorber and hole selective transport layer/counter electrode. The low Schottky barrier height of the reported junctions suppresses dark current with a high detectivity ≈1014 Jones and generates a photocurrent by transporting photo‐excited carriers through a low hole barrier at a wide wavelength. Two types of integrated IR proximity sensor applications are developed: a passive sensor (MoS2/NiO/Ni) for the near‐IR (NIR) range and an active sensor (Gr/NiO/Ni) for the mid‐IR (MIR) range. The former shows a broadband photoresponse to reflect the NIR, while the latter absorbs human body irradiation (2–16 µm wavelength) with a fast photoresponse of 3.5 s (rise time) and 1.8 s (fall time). The fabricated sensors utilize low power, broadband detection, high sensitivity, fast photoresponse, and large‐scale area at room temperature.
Multifunctional Modification of SIS Membrane with Chimeric Peptides to Promote Its Antibacterial, Osteogenic, and Healing‐Promoting Abilities for Applying to GBR
Authors: Mu Yuzhu , Ma Shiqing , Wei Pengfei , Wang Yonglan , Jing Wei , Zhao Yifan , Zhang Lei , Wu Jinzhe , Zhao Bo , Deng Jiayin , Liu Zihao
Published: May 2021

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) technology is the most widely used and stable method for bone defect repair. However, infectious bone defect limits the application of this technique. Herein, a small intestinal submucosa (SIS) membrane modified by chimeric peptides as a new type of GBR membrane is developed for efficacious tissue regeneration. Based on the main components of SIS membrane are I and III collagen, collagen binding peptides TKKTLRT and KELNLVY sequences are used to construct chimeric peptides with healing‐promoting peptide Hst1 or antibacterial osteogenic peptide JH8194, so as to realize the specifically target of SIS. This method achieves the fast and efficient multifunctional modification of SIS membrane. The chimeric peptides modified SIS (pSIS) membrane has satisfactory biocompatibility and a certain degree of antibacterial activity. Moreover, pSIS promotes the osteogenic related factors expression of rat bone mesenchymal stem cells and demonstrates great bone regeneration in rat skull defect model. Furthermore, pSIS accelerates the migration of oral epithelial cells in vitro and activate integrin α3β1 signal pathway contribute to wound healing. This study presents a novel biomaterial design of GBR membrane, specifically for the treatment of infectious bone defects.
Superprotonic Conductivity of MOFs and Other Crystalline Platforms Beyond 10−1 S cm−1
Authors: Pal Shyam Chand , Das Madhab C.
Published: May 2021

The proton‐exchange membrane (PEM) is a fundamental module of proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), permitting proton passage and thus governing the overall performance of PEMFCs. Till now, Nafion has been the extensively used marketable PEM material due to its high protonic conductivity of 10−2–10−1 S cm−1 under high relative humidity and 80–85 °C. On the other hand, crystalline materials such as metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), coordination polymers (CPs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOFs), metalo hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (MHOFs), and polyoxometalates (POMs) are emerging as potential PEM materials, where crystallinity has paved the way to study the conduction pathway and associated mechanisms to understand structure‐function relationships. However, to date, ultrahigh superprotonic conductivity to the level of 10−1 S cm−1, close to Nafion, is relatively scarce for the crystalline proton conductors. In this review, the discussion is focused on materials that demonstrate a conductivity order of 10−1 S cm−1 and higher for those individual crystalline platforms (to be on the equal footing and superior to nafion, respectively) based on their synthesis approach while highlighting the design norms and key features for attaining such ultrahigh conductivity. While a critical analysis is made, the key issues and future prospects are also addressed.
Magnetic Tilting in Nematic Liquid Crystals Driven by Self‐Assembly
Authors: Hähsler Martin , Nádasi Hajnalka , Feneberg Martin , Marino Sebastian , Giesselmann Frank , Behrens Silke , Eremin Alexey
Published: May 2021

Self‐assembly is one of the crucial mechanisms allowing the design multifunctional materials. Soft hybrid materials contain components of different natures and exhibit competitive interactions which drive self‐organization into structures of a particular function. Here a novel type of a magnetic hybrid material where the molecular tilt can be manipulated through a delicate balance between the topologically‐assisted colloidal self‐assembly of magnetic nanoparticles and the anisotropic molecular interactions in a liquid crystal matrix is demonstrated.
GSH‐Depleted Nanozymes with Dual‐Radicals Enzyme Activities for Tumor Synergic Therapy
Authors: Wu Shengming , Wang Peng , Qin Jingwen , Pei Yanbai , Wang Yilong
Published: May 2021

Although inspiring progress has been achieved in tumor nanocatalytic therapies based on tailor‐made nanozymes for converting hydrogen peroxide into reactive oxygen species (ROS) efficiently, most cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals do not spread far enough within a cell to damage the primary organelles for effective tumor therapy due to their short half‐life time (≈1 µs). Developing a novel nanocatalyst platform involving longer half‐life time ROS is desired. To this end, Fe3O4‐Schwertmannite nanocomposites (Fe3O4‐Sch) with triple‐effect tumor therapy are constructed through a facile method. The Schwertmannite shell converts the •OH produced by Fe3O4 via the Fenton reaction into sulfate radicals with a longer half‐life time (30 µs). Combination of dual radicals exhibits overwhelming tumor inhibition efficacy. The nanocomposites also show the multifunctionality of good photothermal efficiency (33.2%) and synergistic oxidative stress amplification upon glutathione biosynthesis (GSH) depletion by the l‐buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) molecules loaded in the hollow Fe3O4 cores. The comprehensive properties of the nanoplatform including the dual‐radical production, Fe3O4 nanocrystal mediated PTT, and the BSO mediated GSH depletion result in remarkable tumor inhibition both in vitro and in vivo, which may pave a way to constructing a synergic catalytic nanoplatform for efficient tumor therapy.
Laser‐Induced Annealing of Metal–Organic Frameworks on Conductive Substrates for Electrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Tang Yu‐Jia , Zheng Han , Wang Yu , Zhang Wang , Zhou Kun
Published: May 2021

The conventional thermal transformation of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for electrocatalysis requires high temperature, an inert atmosphere, and long duration that result in severe aggregation of metal particles and non‐uniform porous structures. Herein, a precise and inexpensive laser‐induced annealing (LIA) strategy, which eliminates particle aggregation and rapidly generates uniform structures with a high exposure of active sites, is introduced to carbonize MOFs on conductive substrates under ambient conditions within a few minutes. By systematically considering 8 substrates and 12 MOFs, a series of LIA‐MOF/substrate devices with controllable sizes and good flexibility are successfully obtained. These LIA‐MOF/substrate devices can directly serve as working electrodes. Remarkably, LIA‐MIL‐101(Fe) on nickel foam exhibits an ultralow overpotential of 225 mV at a current density of 50 mA cm−2 and excellent stability over 50 h for facilitating the oxygen evolution reaction, outperforming most recently reported transition‐metal‐based electrocatalysts and commercial RuO2. Physical characterizations and theoretical calculations evidence that the high activity of LIA‐MIL‐101(Fe) arises from the favorable adsorption of intermediates at its Ni‐doped Fe3O4 overlayer that is formed during the laser treatment. Moreover, the LIA‐MOF/substrate devices are assembled for overall water splitting. The proposed LIA strategy demonstrates a cost‐effective route for manufacturing scalable energy storage and conversion devices.
Sutureless Transplantation of Amniotic Membrane Using a Visible Light‐Curable Protein Bioadhesive for Ocular Surface Reconstruction
Authors: Maeng Seong‐Woo , Park Tae Yoon , Min Ji Sang , Jin Longyu , Joo Kye Il , Park Woo Chan , Cha Hyung Joon
Published: May 2021

The conjunctiva is a thin mucous membrane of the eye. Pterygium, a commonly appearing disease on the ocular surface, requires surgery to excise the conjunctiva to prevent visual deterioration. Recently, transplantation of the amniotic membrane (AM), which is the innermost membrane of the placenta, has been highlighted as an efficient method to cure conjunctiva defects because of its advantages of no side effects compared to mitomycin C treatment and not leaving additional scars on donor site compared to conjunctival autografting. However, to minimize additional damage to the ocular surface by suturing, AM transplantation (AMT) needs to be simplified by using a less invasive, time‐saving method. In this work, a visible light‐curable protein bioadhesive (named FixLight) for efficient sutureless AMT is applied. FixLight, which is based on bioengineered mussel adhesive protein (MAP), is easily applied between damaged ocular surfaces and transplanted AM, and rapidly cured by harmless blue light activation. Through in vivo evaluation using a rabbit model, the authors demonstrated that FixLight enabled facile, fast, and strong attachment of AM on sclera and promoted ocular surface reconstruction with good biocompatibility. Thus, FixLight can be successfully used as a promising clinical bioadhesive in opthalmological surgeries that require sutureless and rapid operation.
Catalytic‐Enhanced Lactoferrin‐Functionalized Au‐Bi2Se3 Nanodots for Parkinson's Disease Therapy via Reactive Oxygen Attenuation and Mitochondrial Protection
Authors: Li Lihua , Lu Yao , Xu Xingyi , Yang Xianfeng , Chen Lingling , Jiang Chengming , Wang Yu , Hu Wenyan , Wei Xiaoming , Yang Zhongmin
Published: May 2021

Overexpression of reactive oxygen species in the substantia nigra pars compacta destroys dopaminergic neurons and accelerates the pathological process of Parkinson's disease (PD). In this study, a new hydrophilic nano‐bioconjugate, lactoferrin (Lf)‐modified Au‐Bi2Se3 nanodot (ND) for efficient PD therapy is developed. In particular, the Lf‐Au‐Bi2Se3 NDs exhibit strong blood‐brain barrier (BBB) permeation. The Lf‐Au‐Bi2Se3 NDs can also serve as multiple enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and peroxide. These NDs are located close to the mitochondria and thus maintain the mitochondrial membrane potential as well as control the cellular ROS level. In vivo results further demonstrate that the NDs can improve the memory and mobility of PD mice; permeation of the BBB, protection of mitochondria, and suppression of dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra pars compacta are also observed. It is anticipated that these new Lf‐Au‐Bi2Se3 NDs with excellent biocompatibility, multienzyme functionality, and BBB permeability will open new opportunities for PD therapy.
Effects of Protein Source on Liposome Uptake by Cells: Corona Composition and Impact of the Excess Free Proteins
Authors: Yang Keni , Reker‐Smit Catharina , Stuart Marc C. A. , Salvati Anna
Published: May 2021

Corona formation in biological fluids strongly affects nanomedicine interactions with cells. However, relatively less is known on additional effects from the free proteins in solution. Within this context, this study aims to gain a better understanding of nanomaterial–cell interactions in different biological fluids and, more specifically, to disentangle effects due to corona composition and those from the free proteins in solution. To this aim, the uptake of liposomes in medium with bovine and human serum are compared. Uptake efficiency in the two media differs strongly, as also corona composition. However, in contrast with similar studies on other nanomaterials, despite the very different corona, when the two corona‐coated liposomes are exposed to cells in serum free medium, their uptake is comparable. Thus, in this case, the observed differences in uptake depend primarily on the presence and source of the free proteins. Similar results are obtained when testing the liposomes on different human cells, as well as in murine cells and in the presence of murine serum. Overall, these results show that the protein source affects nanomedicine uptake not only due to effects on corona composition, but also due to the presence and composition of the free proteins in solution.
In Situ Synthesized Selenium Nanoparticles‐Decorated Bacterial Cellulose/Gelatin Hydrogel with Enhanced Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Anti‐Inflammatory Capabilities for Facilitating Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Mao Lin , Wang Li , Zhang Mingyue , Ullah Muhammad Wajid , Liu Li , Zhao Weiwei , Li Ying , Ahmed Abeer Ahmed Qaed , Cheng Haoyan , Shi Zhijun , Yang Guang
Published: May 2021

Bacterial‐associated wound infection and antibiotic resistance have posed a major burden on patients and health care systems. Thus, developing a novel multifunctional antibiotic‐free wound dressing that cannot only effectively prevent wound infection, but also facilitate wound healing is urgently desired. Herein, a series of multifunctional nanocomposite hydrogels with remarkable antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory capabilities, based on bacterial cellulose (BC), gelatin (Gel), and selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), are constructed for wound healing application. The BC/Gel/SeNPs nanocomposite hydrogels exhibit excellent mechanical properties, good swelling ability, flexibility and biodegradability, and favorable biocompatibility, as well as slow and sustainable release profiles of SeNPs. The decoration of SeNPs endows the hydrogels with superior antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory capability, and outstanding antibacterial activity against both common bacteria (E. coli and S. aureus) and their multidrug‐resistant counterparts. Furthermore, the BC/Gel/SeNPs hydrogels show an excellent skin wound healing performance in a rat full‐thickness defect model, as evidenced by the significantly reduced inflammation, and the notably enhanced wound closure, granulation tissue formation, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and fibroblast activation and differentiation. This study suggests that the developed multifunctional BC/Gel/SeNPs nanocomposite hydrogel holds a great promise as a wound dressing for preventing wound infection and accelerating skin regeneration in clinic.
Recent Progress in Development of Wearable Pressure Sensors Derived from Biological Materials
Authors: Pan Hong , Lee Tae‐Woo
Published: May 2021

This review summarizes recent progress in the use of biological materials (biomaterials) in wearable pressure sensors. Biomaterials are abundant, sustainable, biocompatible, and biodegradable. Especially, many have sophisticated hierarchical structure and biological characteristics, which are attractive candidates for facile and ecologically‐benign fabrication of wearable pressure sensors that are biocompatible, biodegradable, and highly sensitivity. The biomaterials and structures that use them in wearable pressure sensors that exploit sensing mechanisms such as piezoelectric, triboelectric, piezoresistive and capacitive effects are present. Finally, remaining impediments are discussed to use of biomaterials in wearable pressure sensors.
Flexible Electrodes for In Vivo and In Vitro Electrophysiological Signal Recording
Authors: Zhu Mengjia , Wang Huimin , Li Shuo , Liang Xiaoping , Zhang Mingchao , Dai Xiaochuan , Zhang Yingying
Published: May 2021

A variety of electrophysiological signals (electrocardiography, electromyography, electroencephalography, etc.) are generated during the physiological activities of human bodies, which can be collected by electrodes and thus provide critical insights into health status or facilitate fundamental scientific research. The long‐term stable and high‐quality recording of electrophysiological signals is the premise for their further applications, leading to demands for flexible electrodes with similar mechanical modulus and minimized irritation to human bodies. This review summarizes the latest advances in flexible electrodes for the acquisition of various electrophysiological signals. First, the concept of electrophysiological signals and the characteristics of different subcategory signals are introduced. Second, the invasive and noninvasive methods are reviewed for electrophysiological signal recording with a highlight on the design of flexible electrodes, followed by a discussion on their material selection. Subsequently, the applications of the electrophysiological signal acquisition in pathological diagnosis and restoration of body functions are discussed, showing the advantages of flexible electrodes. Finally, the main challenges and opportunities in this field are discussed. It is believed that the further exploration of materials for flexible electrodes and the combination of multidisciplinary technologies will boost the applications of flexible electrodes for medical diagnosis and human–machine interface.
Biomimetic Scaffolds with a Mineral Gradient and Funnel‐Shaped Channels for Spatially Controllable Osteogenesis
Authors: Qiu Jichuan , Ahn Jaewan , Qin Dong , Thomopoulos Stavros , Xia Younan
Published: May 2021

A facile method is described herein for generating a mineral gradient in a biodegradable polymer scaffold. The gradient is achieved by swelling a composite film made of polycaprolactone (PCL) and hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles with a PCL solution. During the swelling process, the solvent and PCL polymer chains diffuse into the composite film, generating a gradient in HAp density at their interface. The thickness of the mineral gradient can be tuned by varying the extent of swelling to match the length scale of the natural tendon‐to‐bone attachment (20−60 µm). When patterned with an array of funnel‐shaped channels, the mineral gradient presents stem cells with spatial gradations in both biochemical cues (e.g., osteoinductivity and conductivity associated with the HAp nanoparticles) and mechanical cues (e.g., substrate stiffness) to stimulate their differentiation into a graded distribution of cell phenotypes. This new class of biomimetic scaffolds holds great promise for facilitating the regeneration of the injured tendon‐to‐bone attachment by stimulating the formation of a functionally graded interface.
Electron Matters: Recent Advances in Passivation and Applications of Black Phosphorus
Authors: Liu Xiao , Chen Kai , Li Xingyun , Xu Qingchi , Weng Jian , Xu Jun
Published: May 2021

2D materials have experienced rapid and explosive development in the past decades. Among them, black phosphorus (BP) is one of the most promising materials on account of its thickness‐dependent bandgap, high charge‐carrier mobility, in‐plane anisotropic structure, and excellent biocompatibility, as well as the broad applications brought by the properties. In view of the electron configuration, the most unique feature of BP is the lone‐pair electrons on each P atom. The lone‐pair electrons inevitably cause high reactivity of BP, particularly toward water/oxygen, which greatly limits the practical application of BP under ambient conditions. The other side of the coin is that BP can serve as an electron donor to promote the construction of BP‐based hybrid materials and/or to boost the performance of BP or BP‐based hybrid materials in applications. Here, recent advances in passivation and application of BP by addressing the interaction between the lone‐pair electrons of BP and the other materials are discussed, and prospects for future research on BP are also proposed.
Mapping the Design of Electrolyte Materials for Electrically Rechargeable Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Liu Xiaorui , Fan Xiayue , Liu Bin , Ding Jia , Deng Yida , Han Xiaopeng , Zhong Cheng , Hu Wenbin
Published: May 2021

Electrically rechargeable zinc–air batteries (ERZABs) have attracted substantial research interest as one of the best candidate power sources for electric vehicles, grid‐scale energy storage, and portable electronics owing to their high theoretical capacity, low cost, and environmental benignity. However, the realization of ERZABs with long cycle life and high energy and power densities is still a considerable challenge. The electrolyte, which serves as the ionic conductor, is one of the core components of ERZABs, as it plays a significant role during the discharge–charge process and greatly influences the rechargeability, operating voltage, lifespan, power density, and safety of ERZABs. Herein, the fundamental electrochemistry of electrolyte materials for ERZABs and the associated challenges are presented. Furthermore, recent advances in electrolyte materials for ERZABs, including alkaline aqueous electrolytes, nonalkaline electrolytes, ionic liquids, and semisolid‐state electrolytes are discussed. This work aims to provide insights into the future exploration of high‐performance electrolytes and thus promote the development of ERZABs.
Programmable Logic in Metal–Organic Frameworks for Catalysis
Authors: Shen Yu , Pan Ting , Wang Liu , Ren Zhen , Zhang Weina , Huo Fengwei
Published: May 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as one of the most widely investigated materials in catalysis mainly due to their excellent component tunability, high surface area, adjustable pore size, and uniform active sites. However, the overwhelming number of MOF materials and complex structures has brought difficulties for researchers to select and construct suitable MOF‐based catalysts. Herein, a programmable design strategy is presented based on metal ions/clusters, organic ligands, modifiers, functional materials, and post‐treatment modules, which can be used to design the components, structures, and morphologies of MOF catalysts for different reactions. By establishing the corresponding relationship between these modules and functions, researchers can accurately and efficiently construct heterometallic MOFs, chiral MOFs, conductive MOFs, hierarchically porous MOFs, defective MOFs, MOF composites, and MOF‐derivative catalysts. Further, this programmable design approach can also be used to regulate the physical/chemical microenvironments of pristine MOFs, MOF composites, and MOF‐derivative materials for heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis. Finally, the challenging issues and opportunities for the future research of MOF‐based catalysts are discussed. Overall, the modular design concept of this review can be applied as a potent tool for exploring the structure–activity relationships and accelerating the on‐demand design of multicomponent catalysts.
Self‐Powerbility in Electrical Stimulation Drug Delivery System
Authors: Xu Lingling , Yang Yuan , Mao Yukun , Li Zhou
Published: May 2021

On‐demand drug delivery is one of the main research directions of the drug delivery system (DDS). At present, with the development of various stimulus‐responsive materials and technology, it is possible to regulate drug release through various external or internal stimuli. Among them, electrical stimulation DDS has great potential due to its easy combination with sensor or microchip and precise time and space controlled‐release ability. At the same time, with the rapid growth of research in self‐powered devices, the self‐powerbility of electrical stimulation DDS has also received a lot of attention. In this review, the current biomaterials used in electrical stimulation DDS, such as conducting polymers, electroconductive hydrogels, carbon‐based nanomaterials, metal, and semiconductors are first introduced. Further the route of administration and recent advances of electrical stimulation DDS is summarized. The development and classification of self‐powered devices used in DDS are highlighted. In the end, the major challenges and future perspectives of electric stimuli‐responsive DDS are discussed.